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SNOWPOCALYPSE ONE YEAR LATER > page 10
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NEWS
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IN THIS ISSUE
Eagle rants (3), STI testing (4), Snowpocalypse (10)
OPINION
Staff editorial (6), Shapiro column (7), Shapiro responses (7), CERF letter to the editor (8)
SCENE
Valentine’s Day ideas (13), Playlists (14), Calendar (17)
SPORTS
Women’s basketball (20), Super Bowl winners and losers (19)
& ( '& )*
.>?%!"#$%&! since JAN. 31
1. AU shouldn’t give in to phony ROTC patriotism 2. 11 AU students evacuating Cairo 3. Eagle rants
SAVE FERRIS 2":6@1A./""&@B">1B61"C7>5
TOP TWEETS “RT @caitdouglas: Bummed @americanu rejecting an expanded @chefgeoffs. They’re a huge part of the community; we shld treat them that way.” @chefgeoffs, Feb. 4 “You know it’s a crappy day when #wmata is running better than the @AmericanU shuttle. #AmericanUniversity This happens too often.” @jordanc, Feb. 4 ““drop dead - best income tax planning option out there” #kogod professors ftw @AmericanU” @bachledova, Feb. 2
5. Students protest at Egyptian Embassy, White House
“so tired. must stay awake. why do beds at #americanu look so darn comfy. #smcedu” @mckeeverfever92, Feb. 1
CORRECTIONS
“I see the #wonk ad from #AmericanU rockin’ this AM in the #dcmetro #wmata Express newspaper :) wohooo! #proudalumn <3 <3” @moipaprika, Feb. 1
In “CERF falls short in fundraising, will rename and re-evaluate goals,” The Eagle incorrectly said a Student Government referendum proposed a $10 increase to the Student Activities fee. In fact, the $10 increase would have been to student fees.
CAMPUS CALENDAR
MISSION
The Eagle, a student-run newspaper at the American University, serves the community by reporting news involving the campus community and surrounding areas. The Eagle strives to be impartial in its reporting and believes firmly in its First Amendment rights. SUBMISSION AND EDITORIAL POLICIES
All submissions become the property of The Eagle. Unsigned letters will not be published. The Eagle reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for length and clarity. Letters and columns may be published in print or online. Letters and columns are the opinion of the writer and not the newspaper. !"
The Eagle has a commitment to accuracy and clarity and will print any corrections or clarifications. To report a mistake, call the editor in chief at (202) 8851402 or e-mail editor@theeagleonline.com.
!"
4. Stories from Egypt: A student account of unrest in Cairo
In “AU fundraising campaign exceeds goal,” the number of Board of Trustees donors was misstated. A total of 41 trustees donated to the AnewAU campaign.
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TUESDAY 8
WEDNESDAY 9
THURSDAY 10
FRIDAY 11
SATURDAY 12
SUNDAY 13
Hybrid Psychology Discussion with Rom Harre 3:30 p.m. WHERE: Mary Graydon Center 200 WHAT: Rom Harre, a philosopher and psychology scholar, is currently co-authoring a book on “hybrid psychology,” a field which he is in the process of defining. CONTACT: honors@ american.edu.
A Panel of Experts, Kogod Case Competition 5 - 8:30 p.m. WHERE: : MGC 4 WHAT: Executives with expertise in the case topic of the annual Kogod Case Competition will answer student competitors’ questions and give insight into the cases. CONTACT: kogod@american.edu.
“Our Patchwork Nation” Book Talk 7 - 8:30 p.m. WHERE: MGC 4 WHAT: Journalist Dante Chinni discusses his new book, “Our Patchwork Nation: The Surprising Truth About the Real America.”
Soapbox in the Mudbox 7 - 10 p.m. WHERE: Bender Library Mudbox WHAT: An open mic night will bring music, slam poetry and performances of all kinds to AU. CONTACT: Student Government at soapbox@ausg.org.
Romantic Movie Night in the Tavern 10 p.m. - 12 a.m. WHERE: The Tavern WHAT: In honor of Valentine’s Day, there will be a showing of the romantic comedy, “Serendipity.” Free frozen hot chocolate will be served. CONTACT: Patrick Ledesma at university_center@ american.edu
American University Symphony Orchestra Concerto and Aria Competition 3 - 7 p.m. WHERE: Abramson Family Recital Hall, Katzen Arts Center WHAT: Student instrumentalists and singers from AU compete to perform with the AU Symphony Orchestra. CONTACT: Katzen Arts Center Box Office at auarts@american.edu
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EAGLE RANTS Want an answer to your rant? E-mail your queries to our advice bloggers at compass@theeagleonline.com. ! Why are some people attractive and others, not so much? Have you thought about who/what decides this and what it means? Hmmm...
So far I’ve been admitted into the easiest law school in the country to get into and the second easiest law school in the country to get into. Hoping for the third ... !
! We went on a date ... or I think it was ... and I felt NO chemistry. It’s been like five months that I’ve had a weird friend crush on you. You’re basically perfect, let’s just get drunk and see if we can make some sparks fly.
When I hear about people dropping a couple grand at a club, it makes me a little sick. I’m about to be a couple hundred thousand dollars in debt. If you want to throw money around, how about throwing some my way?? Much appreciated. !
! There’s a new girl who works at the Dav with short brown hair and the most mesmerizing blue eyes. Your laugh makes my day so much better. Don’t be surprised if you see me in there a lot more often, despite the terrible lines. ! To the person who pointed out that there are less smokers on campus now ...
really? Are you seriously arguing that whether or not a person smokes corresponds with how intelligent they are? Wow. ! I want to rant but then I think about the starving children in Africa and I don’t. ! You are beautiful. Yes, I mean you. ! To “It’s called a straightener and makeup, girlies!” chick - I’d rather not have damaged hair and bad skin, thanks. And not look like a total clone. ! Give me liberty, or give me a wonk shirt. ! Has anyone heard anything about a secret society? ! I know everyone says that Communications is the easiest major, but I’m drowning — DROWNING in work right now. Junior year fail. ! Dear Conservative who is afraid to admit it ... Didn’t you know that liberalism is a new form of fascism? Disagree with a lib and run for your life.
Dear friends, There’s more to life than being in a sorority. Sometimes I honestly feel like you don’t get that. !
Dear Mr. Shapiro, I am an ROTC Cadet and I would like to get coffee with you, because you obviously have never sat down and !
CLASSIFIEDS
Cashiers Wanted FT/PT apply at Uptown Deli 7905 Norfolk Ave Bethesda MD 20814 301-961-5787
Sitters Wanted. $12 or more per hour. Register free for jobs near campus or home. www.student-sitters.com
spoken with one of us. If that’s not possible, if you see one of us in uniform please come up and talk. Thank you, An ROTC Cadet ! To the girl that I bought coffee for who was sitting next to me in the grad study lounge on Monday: I didn’t have a chance to get your name because it’s hard to have a conversation in the library, but I just wanted to say that you’re gorgeous. I’m in the gym every night. Come find me? ! I want my friend’s help to get me a boyfriend, but I’m afraid he’d just want her — she’s really pretty. Prettier than me.
!
all.
Tavern curly fries. that’s
! Went to London instead of Cairo for study abroad. Seriously regretting this decision. ! I just spoke to someone who graduated in 1937 from American University at Phonathon. CRAZY. ! There should be a campus wide protest/rally in honor of the Egyptian people. If we are ranked the most politically active school in the country, we need to show it!
Bethesda’s New NY Style Jewish Deli Bagels, Cheesecake, Bialys ,Egg Creams, Huge sandwiches, Matzo Ball Soup, Rugelach, Black and White Cookies, Salads, Dr Browns Sodas, Breakfast, Lunch, Catering and More! “Ess Till You Plotz”
UPTOWN DELI 7905 Norfolk Ave Bethesda MD 20814 301-961-5787 www.uptowndelibethesda.com AU Students receive a free 16oz soda with a valid student ID and purchase of any sandwich over $5.99 Offer good through 1-31-11 Not combined with any other offers. Must show valid ID
! First time in Kogod and what am I welcomed with? Business Wonks Live Here. Gross, I wanted to turn around. ! Get a hold of yourself Kogod, I thought you were classier.
They’re no Georgetown Cupcakes, but the cupcakes from the Eagle’s Nest are surprisingly good. !
! Dear shuttle driver who gives students a “word of the day” each morning: You are AWESOME!
READ THE POLICE BLOTTER ONLINE.
2 MEDIUM 1 TOPPING $ .00 PIZZAS FOR 10 (Delivery and tip additional)
202-362-7500 AU EAGLEBUCKS HONORED
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STI testing, treatment no longer free for D.C. college students By LAUREN LANDAU Eagle Staff Writer
If you’re doing the dirty this Valentine’s Day, make sure you’re clean and get tested for STIs. But be ready to shell out more than you did for that bouquet of roses. The Student Health Center can no longer provide free on-site testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea due to D.C. Department of Health funding cuts. The Health Center now provides these tests for a $30 fee. The screenings were previously free for students because the city government provided the kits to AU at no charge. Student Health Center Director Dan Bruey said the Health Center is currently working on obtaining low cost or free testing, through either its lab or outside programs. In response to student concerns over affordability, the Health Center created a discounted STI package that tests for herpes type 1, herpes type 2, syphilis and hepatitis C. The package costs $80 and is not billed to insurance. If students would rather bill the testing to their insurance, the price is higher. Bruey said that most students choose to pay the discounted fee rather than have it billed to insurance because some students are on their parents’ insurance plans and don’t want their parents to know they got tested. Bruey said that students usually visit the Health Center for another reason, but start discussing STI screening and decide to get tested while they’re there. When students come into the Health Center for STI testing now, they are given the option to either pay the Health Center fee or go to a free testing site. The Health Center refers students to Planned Parenthood if they cannot afford the fees. There are more than 40 locations in the District where students can get free
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testing, including at the Department of Health Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinic, at 1900 Massachusetts Ave., SE. D.C. Public School students receive free testing Although the city cut free testing from certain communities, including college health centers, it increased coverage for D.C. public high schools. Now any public high school student can get free on-site testing and treatment for chlamydia and gonorrhea. D.C.’s rate of chlamydia is three times the national average, according to the Department of Health. Fifteen to 18-year-olds make up half of D.C.’s chlamydia and gonorrhea cases, according to Michael Kharfen, a Department of Health spokesman. The Department of Health decided to cut free screening at college health centers and other communities after reviewing the statistics on chlamydia and gonorrhea infections in D.C. “We were not finding very high infection rates among the college students, but we found very high rates among our adolescent students aged 15 to 19,” Kharfen said. Because of the lower infection rate among college students and higher rate among high school students, the Department of Health needed to reallocate where their money was going. “With the limited funding that we receive, we have to focus those efforts where we know there are lots of infections,” Kharfen said. “Offering free testing for people who don’t have the disease is not the same as offering free testing for adolescents who have no other resources and often cannot rely upon their parents, because they don’t want to talk to their parents about it.” llandau@theeagleonline. com
Old Balducci’s space to be split among multiple tenants By KATE FROEHLICH Eagle Staff Writer
The space of the former high-end grocery store Balducci’s on New Mexico Avenue will likely be divided up into AU offices, a gourmet Italian restaurant, a soup/salad shop and a yoga-related space, according to AU officials. These tenants for the AUowned 3201 New Mexico Ave., NW have not been finalized yet, according to Jorge Abud, assistant vice president for Facilities Development and Real Estate. The tenants should move in April at the earli-
est and February 2012 at the latest. The space has been vacant since June 30, 2009. AU wanted to offer an opportunity to other local businesses, including some women-owned businesses and neighborhood owners, according to Penny Pagano, AU’s director of Community and Local Government Relations. “We used both financial and nonfinancial criteria. These are good businesses that will help the community,” Abud said. Chef Geoff ’s owner Geoff Tracy offered two proposals for the vacant space, a neighborhood market and
gourmet sandwich/salad shop, both of which were ultimately rejected. “I’m obviously disappointed,” Tracy said. “I’m a good tenant, been a tenant for 11 years, and pay my rent on the first of every month. My hope was my reputation and track record in terms of performance. I thought my connections to neighborhood might have resulted in at least a little more communication from AU in regards to getting the space.” Tracy offered to pay $5 more per square foot than he currently pays for the adjacent Chef Ge-
off ’s space, which is also owned by AU. The University wanted $55 per square foot for the new space, but Tracy said he was only willing to pay $43. Tracy said his proposals were rejected without an explanation. “When we get a number of proposals, we work and negotiate with the most competitive party. We don’t usually point out why we chose somebody else,” Abud said. kfroehlich@ theeagleonline.com
DO YOU DRINK ALCOHOL? !
Drink daily or almost daily ? !
Are between the ages of 21 and 60 ?
We are seeking men and women between the ages of 21 and 60 to study whether a medication for smoking cessation (CHANTIX™) may affect drinking (NIH Study #08-AA-0137). Volunteers should be healthy and drug-free. There are no charges for study related tests and evaluations. Qualified subjects will be reimbursed for their participation. The study lasts nine weeks and requires five outpatient and one overnight visits at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center in Bethesda MD. For more details, call 301-496-7500
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Stories from Egypt: A student account of unrest in Cairo By NICOLE GLASS Eagle Staff Writer
Catherine Litten, a junior in the School of International Service, had been in Egypt less than two weeks before she and other AU students were evacuated. She will continue her study abroad in Rabat, Morocco. Are you currently studying abroad in Egypt and where? Since when have you been there? I was studying abroad in Egypt. I was to attend American University in Cairo for the 2011 spring semester. I had arrived Jan. 21, and left Feb. 1. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your living situation like? Homestay/apartment/ roommates? Where in Cairo? I was living in the Zamalek dorms, located on the Zamalek island neighborhood near downtown Cairo (Tahrir Square was right across the Nile from us). It was a dorm of largely American/international students, separated by genders (one half of the building was menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, one half womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s). Can you describe what you have experienced in Egypt so far? Have you experienced any of the violence/riots/etc.? What was it like? Is it scary? What have your friends experienced? In terms of experiencing the sights of Cairo, not a lot happened. We had a week of orientation on the AUC campus, which is located 20 miles outside of Cairo in New Cairo, and most days the orientation ran from 9 to 3, with us catching a 1.5 hour shuttle ride back to the dorms ... not a lot of time to explore. On Tuesday, Jan. 25, the start of the protests, a tour of Old Cairo/Islamic Cairo was arranged for us. We had at least 15 plainclothes cops/security officers following us (about a group of 100, mostly American, students), as well as quite a few regular police officers. The day was supposed to last until 5 p.m. Around 1, we were rushed
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through Khan el Khalili (the big, famous bazaar in Cairo) and around 1:30 were loaded onto our buses saying we were all being taken back to New Cairo campus ... not the dorms. We were told by our RAs this was simply a precautionary measure and that we were all safe, but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d have to stay on campus for an hour before the buses could take us home. Hearing this, Eva Rasho, Macarena Torres-Girao and I (all AU students), went to sit a mere 30 feet away from where everyone else was sitting so we could chat and enjoy the view of the gardens at AUC. AUCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s campus is literally the most gorgeous campus I have ever seen. Knocks AUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s socks off. Anyway, after 20 minutes we head back to the main plaza and everyone is gone. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re told by someone that the bus left 10 minutes ago. We of course panicked, but believed another, regular shuttle would take us back. At that point it was 3:55, and we were told another shuttle would arrive at 4. We get on this shuttle, and 10 minutes out, the shuttle turns back and the driver says we are stuck on campus ... no shuttles are running to Zamalek since the roads have been blocked (we drive through downtown to get back to Zamalek). We began calling RAs, orientation leaders and others ... and are told we will probably have to spend the night on campus. However, the three of us as well as two other girls left behind did not want this to happen. We called a cab, and spent 2.5 hours driving to our dorms. We had to take a circumnavigated route, going halfway across Cairo in order to find an unblocked bridge onto our island. For the past week weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been on curfew set by the government, usually from 4 p.m. to 8 a.m. During the day we would walk around Zamalek, since we could not access the rest of town really. At night, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d sit on the rooftop terrace and hear gunshots and tear gas grenades echoing through the city, because
Cairo, a city of 18 million, essentially became a ghost town at night. The dusk calls to prayer echoed throughout the city, being the only sounds beyond those shots weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d hear. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d watch billowing smoke rise from buildings that were set on fire/being looted, and would look down below as we watched people who lived in the Zamalek neighborhood arm themselves with sticks and pipes, the only means of defense against looters. Tear gas would waft up to us along the wind, making our throats burn and our eyes water. One night, I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t remember which now, we saw a car get smashed in from the terrace. Another night, I think Sun-
day night, around 2 a.m., RAs came pounding on our doors telling us to lock them from the inside â&#x20AC;&#x201C; something was going on outside. It turned out to be a false alarm, but nonetheless, for many students who left the next day (Monday) for evacuation, it only confirmed the need to leave Cairo. As for myself, I never felt in danger on the island. If I had ventured into the protests I would have felt different Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure, but if I could have stayed I would. AUC however had already delayed class a week, and the day we left said they were delaying it another week â&#x20AC;&#x201C; AU said if the semester became too truncated, we would not receive credit if
we stayed. None of us could risk staying and not getting credit/no refund, so we left. It was not due to the protests that we evacuated, but due to academic uncertainty. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening to the students in the AU program now? Are they remaining in Egypt for the rest of the semester or are they being sent home? For AUC, 7 of the 8 of us have evacuated (we werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really in contact the with the last person). Macarena and I are going to the AMIDEAST Rabat program, leaving Istanbul for Morocco tomorrow. Hannah and Kaitlin are studying abroad in Istanbul and are already here (they left Monday night, we left
Tuesday afternoon). Eva is returning to D.C., however it is up to the professors whether she can get into classes, and many professors have shown reluctance at letting her reenter due to their feeling that she could not catch up, even though she is willing to do the work and is in a dire situation. Patrick is unsure yet, but may go to the UAE Sharjah program or back to D.C. Finally, Greg is planning to attend AU Rome. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve all been evacuated and all ended up in Istanbul. But more information on the AMIDEAST program: It already started, however, half ! see EGYPT on page 9
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Love does cost a thing
D.C. cuts to college STI testing justiable, but need to be restored As we approach the one day of the year that it’s acceptable to be an overly sentimental, lovey-dovey sap, we decided to editorialize on a relevant issue: STIs. In D.C. alone, the rate for gonorrhea is 4.3 times higher than the national average, while the rate for chlamydia is 2.7 times higher, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. However, accessible testing for these infections also exists, sometimes even free of charge — unless the Department of Health decides to cut funding for free tests, as has happened recently to D.C.-area universi-
ties. Upon hearing their reasoning, we can understand why such cuts were made, but we believe that the subsidizing of such testing is important to increase access for students who cannot afford to pay for it. Not all STI testing was affected, just that of chlamydia and gonorrhea. The Student Health Center, up until last fall, provided the now $30 test free of charge to AU students. Although $30 does not seem like an enormous chunk of change, to college students operating on little to no income, it’s a pretty big deal. For some, it’s a large enough
“... we can understand why such cuts were made, but we believe that the subsidizing of such testing is important to increase access for students who cannot afford to pay for it.”
chunk of change to avoid testing altogether, especially if they don’t know for sure if they need the tests. We’ll hand it to D.C.
college students — the primary reason for the funding cut was that STI rates among us are pretty low. The Department of Health diverted
our funding towards high school testing and treatment, which is substantially more important considering that the 15-18 age demographic accounts for half of chlamydia and gonorrhea cases in D.C. One factor contributing to these cuts may have been the lack of student representation in the D.C. government. Aside from Deon Jones and the student representative elected to the Georgetown area Advisory Neighborhood Commission, college student representation in D.C. government is non-existent, which means that important decisions that affect us
are being made without our input. In the meantime, the Student Health Center is hard at work trying to restore free testing and is even considering collaboration with the Johns Hopkins University to make this a reality. We applaud the efforts of the Health Center in helping ensure AU students have access to these tests, although we wish that the Department of Health would restore the funding first.
will have the opportunity to vote online for their favorite column of the week, which will account for 25 percent of the vote. Once a round of columns is published, you will be able to vote for your favorite online. If you like sending things in old school (also known as paper and pen), drop me (Linda Barnhart) a note at our office, MGC 252.
com. Best of luck to all of you, and I look forward to reading your submissions!
CONTEST: THE EAGLE’S NEXT GREAT RANTER As we continue through these long, desolate, despairing days of winter, it’s time that we bring a little more light into your lives. That’s right, it’s time for the commencement of our “The Eagle’s Next Great Ranter” competition. Despite the title, this is not a glorified Eagle Rants — this is a place where you can elaborate upon your rants, taking them from a two sentence vent to a well-constructed article. This contest is for those of you who love to comment on our content, but yet have not tried your own hand at it. It’s also for those of you wanting to try your hand at a different style of writing, or just attempting something new because you have some extra free time (lucky you). Whatever your motive, we invite and encourage you to put your
best effort forth. Honestly, what do you have to lose? Now this isn’t going to be some free-handed, haphazard effort on our part, and we hope it isn’t on your end, either. We have some ground rules to lay down: 1. Any work submitted must be original — it can’t be something you did for class or something you posted on your blog and want to pass our way after. (If you think it’s super awesome and want to post a link to it afterwards, that’s fine, but it cannot be featured beforehand). 2. This should go without saying, but we’re saying it anyway — no plagiarism. Your work must be your own, no making up facts, all the same stuff that goes for class regarding plagiarism applies here as well. All entries will contain a source
list for any information or facts referenced in your piece. 3. Entrants must be current students of American University. Sorry recent grads, but we need to give those of us who haven’t made it to the finish line a chance to shine. 4. This is your chance to express your educated opinion within a public forum. This isn’t the place for you to drone on about how much that one kid on your floor is weird, or how you didn’t like your friend’s outfit that she wore out the other night. 5. You must state your opinion clearly within your piece. If you’re not too sure what the process entails, you can visit our “Guide to the editorial page” we featured last August for more information. (http://www. theeagleonline.com/opinion/story/a-guide-to-the-
editorial-page/) 6. Please use proper grammar, punctuation, spelling, etc. We will edit for Associated Press Style before publication and will also edit for the above, but it makes all of our lives easier if you help us with the basics. 7. Entries are due by 5 p.m. the Friday before publication. Late entries will not be accepted. 8. Participants will be regarded in the same light as regular columnists for The Eagle during the duration of this contest. Columnists are not allowed to comment on their own content on our web page, which includes responding to the comments of others. Judging will consist of panel decisions and readers’ votes. The judges’ panel will consist of two Eagle editors and a guest judge. Readers
The contest will consist of three rounds. Each week, a certain number of contestants will be eliminated until we have our winner. How many are eliminated each round depends on how many submissions we receive. The winner will be granted a weekly or biweekly column. Any questions? E-mail me at edpage@theeagleonline.
SUBMIT COMPLETED FORM AND COLUMN TO EDPAGE@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
Name: Graduation Year: School and major(s)/ minor(s): Phone number: E-mail: Have you written for The Eagle before?: What student groups/activities are you currently involved with?: For your first column, pick a current event or topic and tell us how/why it is important to AU students. Local, national, international — you can take your pick — but show us why AU students should find it important. Please submit completed form and column to: edpage@theeagleonline. com.
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TRENDING TOPICS to Punxsutawney Phil for predicting an early spring this year – this cold weather deal is so last month.
!
to the Dav not being " open more often – those of us dead and trying to function before 11 a.m. on a weekend morning are forced to rely on McDonald’s coffee (which isn’t terrible, but just isn’t nearly the same). to Super Bowl ! commercials. Don’t tell us you didn’t love the
little kid dressed like Darth Vader in the Volkswagen commercial.
to those people that " go overboard on the cheese factor on Valentine’s
Day. We get it - you’re in love, you’re not single – no need to make the rest of us want to gag.
to the Washington ! Post’s Going Out Guide for this upcoming weekend.
They have some pretty good ideas for what to do even if you’re not celebrating that one holiday on the 14th.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Cadets deserve same respect given to all AU students This past Thursday, I was invited by a squad of D.C. ROTC Cadets to one of their morning physical training sessions. Being a enlisted Iraq veteran who has just returned from his second tour, my ego took a little hit after being beaten by 20 year old cadets during shuttle sprints (of course I patronizingly told them that if I had a college gymnasium to train in, I would be running circles around them). After the workouts, the platoon leader called the cadets in, and told them that an article had been published in the American University newspaper that they might take offense to. She told the cadets that while they may have strong feelings on the matter, they were not to criticize the article or respond publicly. That’s just not what cadets do. Make sense, I thought. Cadets are going to need to learn that discipline to keep their head down and stay focused on the mission, shrugging off praise and criticism alike, even when their first instinct may be to react. While the development of military professionalism
Free elections, checks and balances protect freedom, not military SMARTER THAN I LOOK
CONOR SHAPIRO My previous column generated many interesting responses, some of which were impassioned, thoughtful and well expressed. I appreciate those who took the time to engage in the debate. I read each comment, whether it was a personal indictment, an emotional anecdote or a logical argument. One prevailing sentiment many expressed can be sum-
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marized in one sentence: The reason I’m able to espouse my (naïve) pacifistic views is only because others are willing to fight for my freedoms. While other common criticisms can hopefully be addressed in future columns, I challenge that spurious claim on its face. It’s common to make incorrect causal relationships, attributing one factor as explanatory for another. For example, a salesman travels door to door selling elephant repellant. He’s usually shunned, but a few people give him the time of day. His pitch is simple: “How does it work, you ask?”
and humility is a necessary part of the development of a commissioned officer, it comes with the drawback that ROTC cadets may be hampered from engaging in the dialogue necessary to justify their presence on campus when it is called into question by men such as Mr. Shapiro. Good thing I’m not a
they be ridiculed for their identity? By inferring soldiers are murderers, warmongers and delusional victims, Conor Shapiro makes it absolutely clear that cadets are second class students at American. Perhaps it is hard to understand how deeply upsetting this rhetoric is to cadets and veterans alike, as our experi-
cuts to the fiber of our being, as it suggests that the service that has become the crucible of our lives will forever alienate us from our civilian brothers and sisters. Yet despite the discriminatory rhetoric employed by Mr. Shapiro, let this be absolutely clear: No matter what our backgrounds may be, and no matter what our fu-
“Are the male and female cadets who already attend American University deserving of the same common respect and dignity as the rest of the students on campus, or should they be ridiculed for their identity?” cadet. The practicable issue that this article poses to the students of American University has nothing to do with the concept of reserve officer training, but rather the following: Are the male and female cadets who already attend American University deserving of the same common respect and dignity as the rest of the students on campus, or should
ences and group culture are different from the non-military student. The closest way to illustrate how cadets and veterans perceive this article is to humbly ask you, the reader, if you’ve ever been told that because of who you are, and that which you can’t change, you are somehow contemptible. Being called a killer and warmonger may seem fair game to some, but for soldiers such criticism
tures may hold, together we are American University. At this school we pride ourselves on diversity not only of being, but also of beliefs, and by extension of this solidarity our differences may serve only to enhance the greater community. As a student who has served two tours in Iraq, what has struck me most about American was how much I had to learn from students who demon-
“I’ve been spraying it for weeks, and look, still no sign of elephants,” he says. The same assumption resonates with the notion that the military preserves and protects our freedoms. The freedoms bestowed from the Constitution aren’t under attack. America faces no militaristic threat — 9/11 was an isolated incident. America wasn’t invaded. It was brutally victimized, but our borders were never threatened. The militaristic response however, has inflamed violent extremism, creating multiple jihad networks expanding throughout the Middle East. Things get worse, not better, when you combat violence with violence because new enemies emerge — angered over family and friends who’ve been murdered. Our militaristic involvement increases the probability of future terrorist attacks, leading our government to
revoke our freedoms. Objectively speaking, Americans have fewer freedoms resulting from these unjust wars (see airports, Patriot Act). The idea of preserving and protecting our freedoms via military intervention is not only wrong, but the opposite has proven true. Americans are less safe today than before 9/11 and have fewer rights and freedoms. Secondly, America has an opportune geographic location. With massive oceans surrounding our borders, we’re largely insulated from invasion. Canadians don’t attribute their freedoms to militaristic hard power. Their freedoms are upheld through participatory elections; checks and balances; and free press. They don’t provoke conflict through privatized, profitable, unilateral wars. If military is what makes us free, what of nations who rarely deploy? Some nations have no mili-
tary. I was asked how I could possibly imagine what a nation would be like sans military. A dreamer, a utopian I was called. Costa Rica, in Central America (a region that’s been plagued by conflict) is far more geographically vulnerable to attack than America. It’s one of the freest nations in the world, according to Freedom House. They manage quite well, ranking first in Happy Planet Index. Costa Rica is also ranked by some to be the most environmentally friendly country on earth. Evidence overwhelmingly points to non-violent activism as a preserver of freedom, not military strength. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates said, “One of the most important lessons of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan is that military success is not sufficient to win.” Scholar David Cortright writes, “New research shows that nonviolence is twice as
strated their service in different ways, from those that volunteer in the D.C. community to those brave study abroad students who have witnessed the uprisings in Egypt this past week. Conor Shapiro would like to imagine American University’s relationship with the military as a binary between idolatry and criticism, praise and scorn. As members of the military, we have asked for neither, but rather only the common equality and shared kinship with the rest of the student body. The discussion over whether or not ROTC should be expanded is a legitimate discussion, and faculty and students alike should give serious thought and analysis to the matter. Mr. Shapiro is by no means required to support the program. But as with all students at American University, our cadets are owed the reciprocal dignity and respect that makes our school as exceptional as it is. John Kamin School of Public Affairs, 2012 Vice President, AU Vets
effective as force in achieving social or political goals,” One reason why is “Governments can justify the use of force against groups that also use force … It is much more difficult to justify the use of violence against completely nonviolent protesters.” Anyone suggesting if I don’t like it here, then move, is missing the point. That’d be taking the easy way out. It’s because I love this nation that I write and espouse non-violence. It’s because I’m distraught by the sight of wounded veterans that I fight to abolish the military. It’s because I care that I work diligently to expose our addiction to violence as a source of our problems, not the resolution thereof. Guess I’m patriotic after all. edpage@theeagleonline. com
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Some questions for Tom Smith With the campus plan having been finalized and released, increased attention is given to the Advisory Neighborhood Commissions that have a large influence over the approval of these plans. It is important to have a dialogue with the community, both between the commissioners and residents. During the campaign for the current Commissioner positions, current Commissioner Tom Smith (3D-02) had stated the importance of reaching out to the students that form the bulk of his constituency. In the September 21, 2010 issue of the Eagle, Mr. Smith participated in the “Five Questions with…” series of the Eagle. He was asked “What will you do to represent the AU community in the future?” He responded that he would reach out to Student Government leaders for opportunities to meet with students, which will be occurring when he sits down with Commissioner Deon Jones (3D-07) on Feb. 22 to discuss issues facing students at a public forum. He also stated he would “ask The Eagle to consider making space available for a column periodically to communicate directly with student.” This is a great idea, as he would be able to have an unfiltered means of communicating directly to students. Unfortunately, Smith has not written an editorial to date, which has taken an opportunity away from the students to hear directly from Smith on how he feels about issues relating directly to them. I hope that he will write more frequently in these pages and continues to engage AU Students. Ed Levandoski School of Public Affairs, 2012 EDITOR’S NOTE: The Eagle has not received any submissions from Smith.
In response: Shapiro veers The American Dream is Green: The new AU off course on military Reading your articles these past months have done wonders for my mental health. I thought to myself, “here is a guy who gets it.” A real liberal, not some obnoxious kid yelling about legalizing marijuana and overthrowing the government while living in his parents’ basement. After reading your last article, however, I can only describe my feelings as disappointment. I am a liberal democrat. But I am also a cadet in Air Force ROTC. In roughly 18 months, I will receive my commission and go on active duty. My father was in the Air Force, my grandfather served in the Army. I have had a member of my family serve in the military going back all the way to the American Civil War. Are we murderers, as you implied in your article? Lord only knows that I do not agree with every military decision that the past two presidents have made, and I will certainly not deny that there have been cases of soldiers, sailors and airmen committing atrocities up to and including murder on the battlefield. But implying that soldiers are murderers because of a few bad eggs is like saying because there are doctors who perform abortions perform abortions at points when the fetus could be birthed and survive independently means that all abortionists are murders. I also agree with you in your article that military service is not the only way to serve your country. My brother is a school teacher in Cincinnati public schools and his work is invaluable to this country. But how are the fire fighters who died in the World Trade Center towers any more or less noble than the Special Forces operators who died in the mountains of Tora Bora only months
later? Both died in service of their countries, probably scared out their minds, in situations they probably did not fully understand. The idea of world peace, and working together to achieve it, is a noble goal. But it is completely unrealistic in this day and age. Until the day that swords are beaten into plowshares, the United States will need a military and
“Until the day that swords are beaten into plowshares, the United States will need a military and thus need ROTC. So why can’t AU have both peacemakers and war ghters?”
thus need ROTC. So why can’t AU have both peacemakers and war fighters? If anything having an ROTC program at AU would only help liberalize the military. Given our student body, it is not unreasonable to assume that the majority of cadets in an AU ROTC program would be liberal. This would mean every year we would be sending liberal officers into the military. Robert Gates and Mike Mullen make up the most liberal defense secretary and Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman combo the U.S. has probably have had. On top of that, our president is Barack
Obama. Imagine what could be accomplished if there was a sizeable stock of junior and mid-level officers behind them. The mission of the United States military is to aggressively wage war against an opponent when called upon. But this does not mean that the U.S. military has never done anything for the betterment of mankind. Chief Master Sergeant Tony Travis of my beloved Air Force was named as one of Time Magazines Top 100 influential people in 2010, because 12 hours after the earthquake in Haiti he and his team were in a helicopter on their way there. 28 minutes after touchdown, they had set up the largest single runway operation in history, bringing food and supplies to the people of Haiti. The USNS Hope is essentially a floating hospital without a single weapon on board. It just returned from South America, making stops at major ports and giving away free medical treatment. These two examples are just a few out of literally hundreds examples where the military stepped in for no tactical or strategic gain, but simply to help. I do not ask you to rethink your status on U.S. foreign policy, or what you think you know about military service. But I do ask you to be more opinion minded about it, about us. Be more liberal, if you will. Cadet Evan M. Wieczorek Air Force ROTC Detachment 130 SIS, ‘12
Sustainability Fund This January, leaders in Student Government and AU’s environmental community announced an evolution of the Clean Energy Revolving Fund to help mobilize students and community members to create a more sustainable campus. Instead of waiting until $100,000 is fundraised for projects to begin and focusing only on clean energy, the improved AU Sustainability Fund will benefit students immediately and empower our community to implement a diverse array of sustainability initiatives. The change from CERF into the AU Sustainability Fund was made to adapt to changing local and national environmental developments, to better reflect the strengths of our community, and to help bring our campus together around environmental issues. This fall, the Sustainability Fund will enable all AU students and community members to apply for grants to implement sustainability initiatives on campus. The Sustainability Fund board will allocate funds for worthy projects and provide support for applicants to put their ideas into action throughout the year. Through this collaborative and grassroots effort, the Sustainability Fund will help empower, educate and engage our community to make AU America’s greenest campus. The AU Sustainability Fund will not be limited to projects that pay themselves back. This creates more opportunities for students and community members to design meaningful sustainability projects with greater flexibility and resources. The creativity, innovation and passion of the AU community can now be fully unleashed to grow green initiatives from expanding the community garden to composting. Fighting climate change and finding a way to live sustainably is one of the most critical challenges our generation faces. The Student Government and the AU community responded to this challenge
with the Clean Energy Revolving Fund. This was a necessary and practical first step in starting a conversation on campus around sustainability that is evolving into an even stronger initiative. All of this can be achieved while uniting our campus without an increase in the Student Activity fee. In addition to the broad range of environmental projects that our community will start through the Sustainability Fund this fall, the Clean Energy Revolving Fund has already created tangible changes on campus. It has sparked a meaningful discussion about sustainability at AU, helped inspire the senior class gift of a wind turbine, and earned overwhelming support from students in the spring 2010 Clean Energy Referendum. Also, later this year, the Department of Sustainability will announce a solar installation project that will make AU the largest solar energy producer in the D.C. area at nearly no cost to the University. The ultimate goal of the Clean Energy Revolving Fund was to engage our community around sustainability and create a culture of environmental consciousness on our campus. No matter what it is called, the efforts of all who supported the Clean Energy Revolving Fund last year continue on through the Sustainability Fund. From uniting our community around environmental issues to generating ideas to build a more sustainable school, we look forward to seeing the Sustainability Fund ignite the passion of AU students to leave our campus, our city and our country better than when we found it. We welcome your comments and feedback about this initiative. If you have questions or ideas for sustainability projects, please contact: environment@ AUSG.org. Jennifer Jones, Stephen Bronskill and Sara Schwartz AU Student Government Department of Environmental Policy
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Washington Semester Program Dean David Brown to step down next year By SAL MOTIANEY
Eagle Contributing Writer
ANA SANTOS / THE EAGLE
COLLEGE SWEETHEARTS — Neil and Ann Kerwin met nearly 40 years ago as AU students. They graduated in 1971 and married in 1972. Their son Michael Kerwin, a 2005 graduate of the School of Communication, met his wife Kara here.
Kerwins find lasting love at AU By KATE FAHERTY Eagle Staff Writer
They met at a party. He was a policy wonk. She was an art history major. Neil and Ann Kerwin met nearly 40 years ago while both were undergraduates at AU. They first met as juniors at a party and felt an immediate connection to each other. “I felt something pretty strong. He was serious, so he made me look at things from a different perspective,” Ann Kerwin said. “He was funny, and he still is.” Although the two felt a connection, they left the party without even knowing each other’s last names. Soon after their first encounter, the two ran into each other near what is now the Katzen Arts Center. They began dating, spending their first date celebrating Neil Kerwin’s 21st birthday with friends at a local bar, the Old Styme. The Old Styme, featuring a sing-along accordion player and décor resembling an old German beer hall, was a fa-
vorite of the Kerwins, as well as many other AU students. The two graduated in 1971 and married in Indianapolis in 1972. “So much of our lives are invested in the University,” Neil Kerwin said. “AU has been an enormously large part of our lives.” Forty years later, the Kerwins still enjoy spending time with college friends, visiting their favorite restaurants in D.C. and along Bethesda Row. Just as they did as students, the Kerwins enjoy taking advantage of the city’s museums and cultural events, in addition to speakers and events on campus. “We’ve always had a close connection to the quad,” Neil Kerwin said. “We spent a lot of time there together. It was always a special place, and I think it still is.” Ann Kerwin said that her husband made her a better student because he was very serious about his schoolwork. “I so wish I would have met him freshman year,” she said.
Many of Neil Kerwin’s memories of AU involve his academics, whether as a student majoring in Political Science or as an undergraduate teaching assistant. Even their son Michael attended AU and similarly met his wife while earning his undergraduate degree here. Michael Kerwin, a 2005 alumnus of the School of Communication, met his wife, Kara, a 2007 alumna of the School of Public Affairs, at an off-campus party when she was a freshman. The two carried on as friends for years before finally realizing that they had much more than just a friendship. The couple married in 2008. Something special the elder Kerwins enjoy about Valentine’s Day are the handmade cards they have shared in the past. Ann Kerwin’s favorite is an anatomically-correct heart drawn by her husband. “On the inside, he wrote me ‘My heart pounds for you,’” she said. kfaherty@theeagleonline. com
AU IN LOVE Neil and Ann Kerwin aren’t the only AU alumni to tie the knot. In fact, they’re in good company: ! There are 2,500 alumni couples that AU knows of. ! 50 alumni are married or partnered with a current faculty or staff member. ! Three alumni board members are married or partnered with another AU alumnus. ! Alumni weddings are regularly held at the Kay Spiritual Life Center.
— ROB COY SOURCE: Heather Buckner, assistant director of Alumni Programs
Washington Semester Dean David Brown will step down from his position at the end of the academic year. Brown is not permanently leaving the University. He will still serve as an adviser within the program, where he will have more time to reach out to students directly. “I won’t be coming into this big office anymore now, but rather a cubicle down the hall,” he said. Brown said he has accomplished everything he ever thought of and much more. “I’ve done just about everything I can do to run and develop a great program here in our nation’s capital,” he said. Brown has been at AU since 1971, when he started off as a professor in the School of Public Affairs. During that time, he also began teaching in the Washington Semester Program, and soon became the program’s dean. He also was in charge of the World Capitals program, now known as AU Abroad, until 2003. During Brown’s tenure, !
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of AMIDEAST Cairo is going to the same program, so we’ll all start behind together. I will be doing home stay and the program ends May 14, early than AUC’s May 26. Luckily, I booked a one-way ticket to Cairo to being so do not have to worry about cancellations/ connections/reimbursement for that flight. Are you getting reimbursed for any part of your study abroad program? For AUC, since we did not start classes we get a full reimbursement for our tuition, which will go to our new programs. For dorm costs, we are unsure, but are hoping we’ll be mostly reimbursed. Most of us also paid for trips arranged by AUC, such as trips to Alexandria and Sinai that were obviously canceled and we hope to be reimbursed for those as
the number of students who come from colleges across the country to experience D.C. for a semester has increased. In the beginning, there were about 90 students per semester. Now, there are over 350 students from across the globe in the program. “It’s a rare job at any institution to have the freedom to conceptualize, create, market, implement and advise a series of new, exciting programs,” he said. As dean, Brown would also travel the country and some parts of the world, where he would go to different colleges and market the program. Brown said he now looks forward to spending more time at home. “Part of my decision to retire rests on the fact that I just want to spend more time with my family,” he said. “I want to see my granddaughters grow up. For 40 years, I’ve been constantly traveling and I think now is the time to put that to a close.” Brown’s replacement, Donna Fish, will take over in the summer. news@theeagleonline.com well. We are unsure how long this process will take. Do you plan to return to Egypt when things have calmed down? Macarena and I plan to return to Cairo at the end of our Rabat program for two weeks to actually see Egypt, and visit our Egyptian friends we made there. Hopefully things are calm by then. Is there anything else you think is interesting to add? As much as this was an interesting experience, never did I once feel unsafe. More than anything, the worst part was us not knowing what to do, what was happening or where we’d go. It was a state of limbo for a number of days, and everyone was feeling the pressure. I may have a stomach ulcer now. nglass@theeagleonline.com
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In retrospect: Snowpocalypse One year later, students and staff remember the epic February snowstorms “We did have a few interesting people come down to the front desk drunk out of their minds. It was a handful of people. They weren’t transport-drunk, but they were funny-drunk, which are the better ones because at 3 a.m., you need to laugh.” Margot Witter, 19 Junior, SIS “Well, after four days of sleeping until 3 p.m., we got bored and decided to go on a Steak and Egg adventure. There was snow completely covering Mass Ave. and we were walking in the middle street and there were other groups of people walking down the road. It really looked like the apocalypse. We finally got there and the TV was on, and that’s when I found out that we got 44 inches of snow instead of usually four in a year.” Julia Schultz, 20 Sophomore, SIS
Courtesy of KATE GREUBEL
ONLY IN D.C. — After the massive amount of snowfall last February, some locals trudged down to the National Mall to sled down the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.
“I haven’t really decided whether a lot [of snow] is good or not. I mean, it’s exciting. I haven’t really experienced enough of it to get sick of it yet. I was kind of surprised that people just grab it with their hands and stuff. That’s intense, man. I play with the sand because I’m from Hawaii and that’s what we do because we don’t have snow, but that’s a trip, man.” Kate Greubel, 20 Eagle staff member “Let me break it down for you. The good things about the snowstorm were that we were paid time and a half, we got to close early, and the students really enjoyed the specials we had. The bad things were that it was hard to travel, there were a lot of falls and accidents, and we didn’t always get our breaks on time.” Kevin Nelson Counter Attendant for Terrace Dining Services
NICOLE GLASS / EAGLE FILE PHOTO
WHOOPS! — Snow and wind collapsed the front canopy covering for the bridge between the Mary Graydon Center, BattelleTompkins and the Butler Pavilion during the second February snowfall. No one was injured in the collapse.
‘SNOWMAGEDDON’ PACKAGE PREPARED BY PROF. JANE HALL’S COMM-320 REPORTING CLASS
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PHOTO OF THE WEEK
SHIRA KARSEN PROTEST FOR PALESTINE Members of Students for Justice in Palestine protested on the Main Quad Feb. 7. The students raised awareness for the group’s upcoming event, “UnblockAID Gaza!,” using a Palestinian flag and cardboard cutouts of guns. Send submissions to photos@theeagleonline.com
AU better prepared for Mother Nature By RACHEL KARAS and ANTHONY MARTINEZ Eagle Staff Writer and Eagle Contributing Writer
After a year of snow and precipitation-fueled puns, AU officials say they are now better equipped to deal with winter’s natural disasters. The blizzards of February 2010, known as “Snowpocalypse” and “Snowmageddon,” tested the strength of AU’s emergency preparedness. In the process, it set a precedent for handling future storms. Preparation for shortterm and long-term snowstorms is the same, according to Chris Moody, executive director of Housing and Dining
Programs. Groundskeepers and snow removal crews begin planning for winter storms as early as November, according to Mark Feist, assistant director of Facilities Management. Preparation involves equipment maintenance and adding snowplows to University trucks. First, an emergency management work team looks at the University’s protocols for weatherrelated emergencies and creates a plan based on what is most relevant to the time of year and the weather situation, Moody said. Facilities Management is then in charge of stockpiling salt and equipment to clear roadways and sidewalks. From there, the challenge is
managing the actual storm and student reaction. To combat last year’s storms, the entire Facilities Management staff was housed on-campus and worked around the clock. “After 10 hours of operating equipment, you’re pretty burned out,” said David Wilson, a grounds maintenance zone supervisor. “Sometimes we have to drop back and let it just come down. There’s no way to keep up.” Once a storm starts, the University focuses on communicating with students about upcoming activities on campus, such as sporting events, movie nights and dances. “Snowpocalypse” helped show Housing and Dining how to plan successful events in bad weather,
should another storm occur. “Last year was a good case study in what activities would attract students and what activities would not,” Moody said. “More informal things worked better because people just wanted to get out of their rooms and interact.” In the event of another large snowstorm, Housing and Dining plans to work with information technology resources to expand communication to students who live off-campus and cannot receive e-mails through the residence halls. Professors used Blackboard, Wimba Classroom, Google Wave, Facebook, Microsoft PowerPoint, Skype, email and telephones
to communicate with students during the storm. Twenty-one classes were held via Wimba during last year’s storms, according to the Center for Teaching, Research and Learning. CTRL Director James Lee believes AU faculty is better prepared for another blizzard because of online classes. Since last February, enrollment in CTRL’s online tools training course has doubled. “Just because we had a big snowstorm does not mean we stop [teaching],” Lee said. “It can happen again even if it was a once-ina-lifetime experience … Swine flu kind of brought [emergency preparation] to the conscience, but ‘Snowmageddon’ made it a reality that [we] won’t
forget.” Weather emergencies require that essential staff members still be able to reach the University. Last year, Bon Appétit workers stayed in Georgetown hotels and 40 AU employees were housed on-campus over the course of a week, according to Moody. “Snow events take major commitment from the staff to be away from their families and to be here to provide services,” Moody said. “It’s great when students appreciate the [staff ] that don’t have a day off of work like many others have. Those are the real heroes of a snow event.” Staff writer Abby Fennewald and Melissa Winn contributed to this story.
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AU ranks fourth in division on Peace Corps list By NICOLE GLASS Eagle Staff Writer
AU was ranked as having one of the highest numbers of Peace Corps volunteers in the nation this year, compared to other universities. Last year, 55 AU students served in the Peace Corps, ranking it fourth with Cornell University on the list of medium-sized universities with the most Peace Corps volunteers. AU was also ranked fifth for the highest number of Peace Corps volunteers from graduate school. AU ranked No. 2 in its division in 2009 with 51 students in the program. Blair Ufer, the Career Center’s employer services coordinator, said AU has a high percent of students who volunteer compared to other universities. “We’re extremely pleased with the number of volunteers relative to our undergraduate population,” she said. AU has significantly smaller undergraduate population than George Washington University — which ranked first on the medium-sized universities list — and other D.C.-area universities, but has a large number of volunteers. Since the Peace Corps’ inception, 819 AU alumni have served in the Peace Corps, Ufer said. Stephen Chapman, public affairs specialist for the Peace Corps’ Mid-Atlantic Regional Office, said AU’s high number of volunteers is due to the school’s focus on international affairs. “AU students have a strong interest in both service and international affairs, so the Peace Corps is a perfect way to launch a career,” Chapman said. “Volunteers return to the United States as global citizens, with leadership, language, teaching and community development skills that position them well for educational and professional opportunities.” There are many benefits to joining the Peace Corps,
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including free housing, medical insurance, graduate study benefits and a readjustment allowance upon return to the U.S., according to Chapman. Some of the countries where current AU alumni are serving include Zambia, Jordan, Ecuador, Honduras, Cambodia, Togo, South Africa, Bulgaria, Rwanda and Madagascar, Chapman said. In 2009 and 2010, 51 AU students volunteered each year. This number has been steadily rising since 2006, when 34 AU students joined the Peace Corps.
Dialogue Development Group Applications. Apply today to participate in DDG's dialogue program this semester. Application deadline is Monday, February 14. All dialogues are open to faculty, staff, or student at AU. Beginning on February 21st for a period of seven weeks, each dialogue offers an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations and serves as a great tool to learn a new form of conflict resolution. Topics this semester are: ! ! ! ! ! !
When Gender Identities and Power Converge: A Dialogue on Gender and Power Between Clash and Coherence: Exploring Culture, Identity, and Life in the U.S. A Meeting Point: Honest Conversations on Faiths and Secularism Religion and Sexuality: Exploring the Divide Black, Brown, Red, Yellow: A Dialogue for People of Color Who, What, When, Where, and White: Perspectives on Whiteness from Around the World
Email ddg@american.edu or visit www.american.edu/sis/ipcr/ddg.cfm to learn more or download the application. Hard copies of the application are also available outside the IPCR Office on the 2nd floor of SIS. Advertisement Paid for by the American University Club Council
nglass@theeagleonline.com Film and Media Arts Journalism Public Communication
Twitter covers #AU By MARIE ZOGLO Eagle Staff Writer
Campus was a-Twitter last week with the Social Media Club’s ongoing competition, #hashtagAU. More than 160 people posted nearly 400 tweets tagged to the contest on its first day, Jan. 31, according to Alex Priest, president and founder of AU’s Social Media Club. The contest runs through Feb. 14. The Social Media Club created hashtags for buildings around campus at the beginning, but the club hopes to encourage people to build a broader conversation that will be more free-form and organic as students create their own hashtags, Priest said. “We’ve created hashtags for different parts of campus, different buildings, different individual things, like the Dav and [Mary Graydon Center] and [the Terrace Dining Room] so that we can start building conversations around individual parts of the campus, whether that’s the shuttle or the Dav or [the School of International Service] or [the Kogod School of Business],” he said. Any Twitter user can get involved in the competition. Participants must post a tweet featuring the hashtag #smcedu. Any post related to AU
is eligible for the contest. “If it’s something that fits into the AU community as integrally as Chef Geoff ’s or Guapos or whatever it might be, of course you can create your own hashtag,” Priest said. As of Feb. 6, over 225 people posted 1,015 tweets featuring the #smcedu hashtag. The Social Media Club hopes the competition will encourage participants to start using Twitter to bring the real world online. “You might talk about getting breakfast in TDR, and that’s fine, but then you might have a friend who sees that and asks you what do they have for breakfast this morning, and then maybe they’ll go over there later,” Priest said. “That kind of conversation wouldn’t be possible without Twitter.” The person who uses the #smcedu hashtag the most will win $100 in LivingSocial Deal Bucks. This is not the only activity the Social Media Club has planned. Along with regular meetings, they will be hosting a panel on LinkedIn on Feb. 16. They will also be hosting the Social Learning Summit April 1-3, a conference on social media and learning. mzoglo@theeagleonline. com
Alum Michael Kempner, CEO of the PR agency M!! "roup, meets #ith students in his $% of&ce'
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SHIRA KARSEN / THE EAGLE
CLASSY — There are a variety of ways to make this Valentine’s Day something special. It’s easier than you think to prepare a unique and romantic date on a college student budget. From coffee at Tryst, to going to the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden’s ice rink or going to an Ethiopian restaurant at U Street, the options are endless.
Three creative ways to mix up a sweet Valentine’s Day By MADELINE WOLFSON Eagle Staff Writer
It’s coming, just around that chilly February corner — the day that either sparks dread and induces eye rolls or makes the heart of lovers go all a-flutter. Valentine’s Day is almost here and for some young AU students that means planning the perfect V-day date, a task less simple than it may seem. A truly atrocious Feb. 14 may be the last for a once happy couple, but a successfully planned night of romance can be a beacon of continuing success for another couple. But how to know what plan is perfect for your sweetheart! Therein lies the paradox.
Well the Scene staff is here to help provide a path that avoids a Valentine’s Day that ends with your Juliet/Romeo throwing a box of mediocre chocolates in your heartbroken face. Not every date is appropriate for all stages of a relationship. While a night in a roadside motel may be just the spice a dull marriage needs, it’s an unsavory choice for that girl/guy you met last week in World Politics, unless of course they’re “into that” and then you may or may not want to reconsider your choice in mate. We’ve done some of the grunt work and have scouted out some D.C.’s best date spots tailored to your honey’s needs.
Cool operator Go for a calm, creative and classy location if it’s a tricky first date. One possibility include an afternoon at Tryst, located in Adams Morgan. This bustling coffee shop is a great choice to keep things casual while still showing her/him a good time. The eclectic décor, slouchy couches and tempting pastries make for a super-sweet setting. Not to mention that this AdMo treasure is usually a-buzz with chatter which means less awkward firstdate silences. Who knows, maybe you’ll share more than a pain-au chocolat. The white knight
Maybe a laid back afternoon of chatter isn’t your style. For those looking to go all out and sweep your valentine off of his or her feet feel free to up the ante. Begin with the night with a tried and true gesture. Roses from that subway guy, freeform poetry, why not break out the old guitar then seal the deal and send chills down his or her spine with a night of ice-skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden’s ice rink. End the night with a stop to one of D.C.’s best cupcakeries (Cake love, Georgetown Cupcake, Red Velvet, what have you). Who knows, you might be getting breakfast as well.
That super-creative jerk who makes everyone else look bad This year it could be you! Put fellow couples to shame by planning an exciting night that will leave your date in awe, rendering them nearly un-dateable for any future partners because they will never live up to your epic standards of awesome! Consider what makes you guys great if you’ve been dating for a while. If you love comedy and ethnic food than head out to an Ethiopian restaurant on U Street and follow it up with two surprise tickets to a nearby show at the Washington Improv Theatre. Or simply do something they’d never expect.
Finally, go dancing, sing to your sweetheart at a karaoke bar, see that sports game even though you have no idea what a Washington Wizard is — leave your comfort zone in the name of love! Another option? Share a unique experience together. Hike through Fort Reno Park and share a frigid picnic, go out to a fancyshmancy Embassy event, dress up and catch the midnight showing of Rocky Horror picture show, skydive — just get creative! Who knows, you may actually have a great Valentine’s Day this year. mwolfson@theeagleonline. com
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Celebrating AntiValentine’s Day with style in the District For those who scoff at the sappy holiday, there are other ways to spend the day. By HOAI-TRAN BUI Eagle Staff Writer
Courtesy of RYAN MUIR / FLICKR
SONGS OF LOVE — Whether you’re in the mood for love or not, artists like the Flaming Lips and Bright Eyes have penned romantic love ballads, while some artists like Kanye opt for writing quite the opposite.
Setting the mood for Valentine’s Day with the perfect playlist By MAEVE MCDERMOTT Eagle Staff Writer
Valentine’s Day is coming fast upon us, and its coming is inexplicably linked with love songs. Musicians have been singing about the boy-meetsgirl conundrum for as long as pop music has existed, and in the spirit of Valentine’s Day, here are some quality love songs of past and present: Bright Eyes — “First Day of My Life” Even if your soul is as black as the night, this song’s unabashed beauty will still make you cry. Conor Obsest’s fragile voice coupled with heartbreakingly gorgeous lyrics make for one of the best love songs of recent memory and one quintessential for Valentine’s Day. The Smiths — “There Is A Light That Never Goes Out” If you scoff at romance and prefer your love songs served with an edge (or on the “500 Days of Summer” soundtrack), this masterpiece by the Smiths more than suffices. Besides, nothing says “Happy Valentine’s Day!” like promising your lover a tandem death. The Flaming Lips — “Do You Realize??”
It’s a sweeping love song that serves as the perfect anthem for Valentine’s Day (and for the other 364 days of the year, too). It’s about the brevity of life, the scope of the universe and the simple joy of seeing the smile of someone you love. Ben Gibbard — “You Remind Me Of Home” “I Will Follow You Into The Dark” has been inexplicably ruined by every wannabe Jason Mraz with an acoustic guitar, so if you like romance accompanied by soft strumming and earnest vocals, dig a little deeper with this song from Death Cab For Cutie lead singer Ben Gibbard. He’s married to Zooey Deschanel, so he must know some valuable secret about wooing the ladies.
themes of love and affection are rejection, anger, bitterness and dismissal. A brief selection of the very best anti-Valentine’s Day songs is below. Weezer — “Pink Triangle” Boy meets girl, boy falls for girl, boy discovers that girl likes other girls. “Pink Triangle” is the best song ever written about finding out your crush isn’t interested in you — or member of your gender, for that matter. Kanye West — “Gold Digger” The title is self-explanatory. Kanye puts a nail in the coffin of romance, trashing the ubiquitous money-hungry female of hip-hop culture. It’s a perfect song for anyone tired of blowing all their free cash on an ungrateful significant other
The Beach Boys — “God Only Knows” Probably the best love song ever written, the Beach Boys say it all on “God Only Knows”. It’s a song about eternal love, plain and simple. If you listen to just one song this Valentine’s Day, make it this the one.
Sufjan Stevens — “Casimir Pulaski Day” If you prefer a weepier Valentine’s Day, look no further than this tearjerker from Sufjan to tear your heart into tiny shreds. A tale of a girl stricken with bone cancer, this song is perfect for spending the holiday with your Kleenex box.
Anti-Valentine’s Songs
OutKast — “Ms. Jackson” What anti-Valentine’s Day would be complete without OutKast’s ode to the beloved mother of one of their baby
If sentimentality and feeling aren’t on your Valentine’s agenda, you’re in luck. Almost as common in music as the
mamas? Thanks, Andre 3000, for teaching us the true meaning of chivalry. R. Kelly — “Real Talk” An R&B classic, R. Kelly lashes out at his lady in the most hilarious way possible — over the phone with as much drama and riffing as possible. Perfect for any jaded listener who’s killed a few relationships by creeping at the club, or goaded an ex-lover with relish to burn all his or her clothing. Bob Dylan — “Like A Rolling Stone” The best diss track of all time features Dylan mocking an ex-flame fallen from grace. This Valentine’s Day, though it may be tempting to trash your previous lovers via College ACB, take Dylan’s lead and and compile an eloquent litany against your ex, mocking them for their misdeeds. The Beatles — “Norwegian Wood” John Lennon knew how to treat a lady correctly: pay her a visit, sleep in her bathtub, and then light her house on fire when she leaves for work the next day. It really doesn’t get any less romantic than this. Happy V-Day, Yoko. mmcdermott@ theeagleonline.com
Today’s incarnation of Valentine’s Day is a holiday created by greeting card companies. The plump image of Cupid, the mass-produced cards and the silly hearts on candies are so shallow and superficial that it’s nauseating. Anti-Valentine’s Day celebrations are a part of a growing movement against the hypocritical holiday of Saint Valentine’s. Whether you’re single or part of a couple, there are plenty of ways to enjoy yourself on Valentine’s Day without subjecting yourself to the lovey-dovey details. Go sight-seeing Honestly, it’s probably one of the most un-romantic things you can do in D.C. Even in the chilly winter weather, there will be no limit to the sweaty and loud tourists who accompany you to the Washington Monument or the Lincoln Memorial. The setting may seem picturesque, but in a place as public as the National Mall, no traces of romantic intrigue can be found. D.C. couples will most likely stick to the exclusive, local areas. If Valentine’s Day is all about “intimacy,” go in the opposite direction. Take pictures, wear fanny packs, and just obnoxiously point at our beloved national monuments. Throw an Anti-Valentine Party Decorate your dorm with black paper hearts. Serve bowls full of broken heart candy. Vandalize pictures of adorable celebrity couples (mustaches and pirate teeth never get old). Buy a heartshaped piñata and smash the hell out of it. Make T-shirts. Tell date stories gone wrong over a fake campfire. What better way to spend
the day of love than hanging out with close friends while blasting anti-love songs? There is no end to the fun that can be had in mocking of people who celebrate Valentine’s Day. Find your inner guy Sometimes there’s nothing better to drown out the mush and love than to kick back in your PJ’s and watch some explosions and gunfire. The Bourne Trilogy is a good pick if you’re feeling intellectual. If you’re in the mood to drown out your feelings, rent a “Transformers” movie. It doesn’t matter which one. If you get tired of zoning out in front of the TV screen, bust out the video games. Mario Kart, Super Smash Bros or Madden are great group games. If you feel like playing solo, grab the RPG’s or shooter games. Have a girl’s/guy’s night out There are plenty of clubs and restaurants having themed nights either before or on Valentine’s Day bitter singles. D.C. clubs are always a good place to loosen up and, if you want, meet other singles, especially since most doting couples are stuck in crowded, formal restaurants. Or go to a restaurant like Co Co Sala in Penn Quarter which is hosting its own “Anti V-Day” party on February 10. If you’re part of a couple that doesn’t feel like doing the candle-lit dinner, head over to Ben’s Chili Bowl, or even a random hot dog stand and dig into some greasy food. If you really want to make a point, make it an eating competition. There’s simply no limit to the ways in which you can celebrate your own Anti-Valentine’s Day. hbui@theeagleonline.com
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CONCERT REVIEW Best Coast By MAEVE MCDERMOTT Eagle Staff Writer
Courtesy of CACA JOUCLAS / FLICKR
MOVIE NIGHT OF LOVE — This Valentine’s Day, post up in your room with whomever you please and watch some memorable films. Whether it be “(500) Days of Summer” or “Love Actually,” have some tissues handy.
Five heartfelt movies to watch on Valentine’s Day, date optional By STEPHAN CHO Eagle Staff Writer
Cheesy romance films have always helped to grease the wheels in our own intimate lives with their cultural signifiers and incredulous scenarios. While some of us have grown to adulthood with a certain ache of cynicism, we here at The Scene believe in keeping with the spirit, and have come up with a list of romantic films to watch in honor of that day of Saint Valentine. “Say Anything …” Despite our overwhelming tendencies to scoff and mock, romantic films thrive on clichés, possibly because of how memorable they become with the passing of time. No other film proves just that than this 1989 classic featuring John Cusack and
Ione Skye. Who can forget the scene where Lloyd Dobler tries to win the heart of Diane Court by blasting “In Your Eyes” on his stereo with outstretched arms? “The Notebook” To some people, films based on Nicholas Sparks’ novels are the epitome of sap. They are so overwrought and dramatic that they make you want to gag. Sure, the plot isn’t exactly subtle nor do the characters seem to show any dimension, but it’s that overly idealistic vision of love that serves as the focal point between the characters of Noah Calhoun (Ryan Gosling) and Allie Hamilton (Rachel McAdams). “Love Actually” “Love actually is all around” is one of the opening lines in this British comedy. As more
than just an expression of two consenting partners, love is explored through a number of loosely interweaving stories, ultimately displaying itself as adventure, friendship, rejection, loss and identity. Whether you’re a Type A personality who’s fallen for a coworker or a sexless dork who’s grown world-weary with rejection, there’s something here for everyone. “(500) Days of Summer” This ever-popular 2009 indie romantic comedy featuring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel has all the trimmings that appeal to our generation — the music, the off-beat cinematography and a coming-of-age “love story” expressed through insecurity and humor. After losing Summer Finn, whom he believes to be the love of his life, Tom Hansen
tries to win her back, facing recurring bouts of disappointment and realization. “Amélie” “Amélie” — both the name of this unforgettable, awardwinning 2001 French film and the eponymous heroine — isn’t conventional by any means. Whether she’s talking to photos or counting the number of orgasms people are having at any given second, Amélie is an effervescent girl who finds joy in the peculiar. After she discovers a childhood treasure chest and vows to return it to its owner, she resolves to devote her life to doing good things for others, getting herself into all sorts of mischief and finding love in the process. scho@theeagleonline.com
The California duo of Best Coast and Wavves played the 9:30 club on Monday, stopping by as part of their “Summer Is Forever” tour sponsored by MTVU. The two bands are inexplicably linked: Both bands are newcomers to the scene of independent music, both share a slight obsession with their home state, marijuana, Twitter and yeah — the two lead singers Bethany Cosentino and Nathan Williams date. Wavves’ brand of skater-punk noise-pop is the project of Nathan Williams, the bratty punk-du-jour of independent music. Best Coast is the creation of Bethany Cosentino, a California native who writes and sings beachy indie rock songs about boys, weed, her cat and more boys, with a sound reminiscent of 1960s girl groups and lyrics that are beyond elementary — the number of times she rhymes “crazy” and “lazy” on debut album “Crazy For You” is probably unsurpassed in modern music. The two bands’ rising popularity and personal connections has just been praying to be capitalized on, and MTVU brought these two beach bums to 9:30 for a night full of guitar feedback, repetitive lyrics and Twitter jokes. Wavves played first, and gave a performance that was exactly what one would expect from an MTV-sponsored Wavves show — roadies threw beach balls into the crowd. Williams made a Kanye joke referring to his ridiculous-looking gold chains, some bros crowdsurfed, etc. The sloppy, brawling Williams of infa-
my was nowhere to be seen at 9:30, supplanted instead by a young man who sang relatively on key, remembered most of his guitar parts and even deigned to thank the audience every few songs. The crowd responded well to Wavves’ fast-paced live show, jumping around and yelling the words along with Williams, particularly to the new single and fan favorite “Post Acid.” Playing in front of a backdrop that featured a cat puking green goo on a beach while surrounded by aliens, Wavves were loud and brash, though the sets nonstop fuzzy guitars and whiny vocals left something to be desired. Best Coast took the stage after Wavves to deliver a quieter and ultimately more enjoyable performance. Bethany Cosentino’s voice was stronger and throatier in concert than on the album, and her songs thankfully sounded less monotonous. The highlight of the set was Cosentino’s cover of Loretta Lynn’s “Fist City,” a song that showed off Cosentino’s substantial vocal talent. The crowd faithfully sang along to album standouts “I Want To” and “Boyfriend,” responding with laughs to Cosentino’s well-mannered banter about her cat, her Twitter and Justin Bieber. The set was solid, if a little slow at times, and gave fans a taste of new songs “Sunny Afternoon” and “When You Wake Up.” Cosentino’s voice is undoubtedly Best Coast’s most valuable feature, and the songstress’ performance (and accompanying swagger) proved to be the highlight of the night. mmcdermott@ theeagleonline.com
VISIT THE INCUBATOR BLOGS.THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
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CONCERT REVIEWS AMERICAN UNIVERSITY PRESENTS...
Lissie
Courtesy of YOHANA DESTA
By YOHANA DESTA Eagle Staff Writer
THE FOUNDER’S DAY BALL “AN AU MASTERPIECE”
HOSTED
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Lissie’s voice is stuck somewhere between a girlish coo and a sultry rasp. The folksy singer-songwriter took the stage at 9:30 club last Sunday, changing the mood of the room with her easygoing nature and cheerful grin. Opening the show was the young and raffish Dylan LeBlanc. As he ambled onstage, he stood awkwardly with a guitar slung over his shoulder, in a worn out blazer and red button down. He had just released his debut album and was full of nerves, choosing to launch right into his set with songs from “Pauper’s Field.” LeBlanc’s voice was thick and mournful, with his lyrics gushing into one another. Onstage he was accompanied by a keyboardist, which did not particularly do anything for his music, but rather just added unnecessary sounds to simplistic guitar strums. LeBlanc’s personal style and musical choices strongly resembled folk singers of late, especially Neil Young — the difference is that LeBlanc has a much stronger voice than the folk stars of yesteryear. After playing a few mournful songs, like “5th Avenue Bar” and a particularly romantic cover of Neil Young’s “Harvest Moon,” LeBlanc decided to get a bit chattier with the audience. He talked about his hometown in Louisiana, his love for sad songs and how he despised American Airlines for smashing one of his beloved guitars and not reimbursing him.
All this was said in LeBlanc’s Southern murmur, always with the ghost of a smirk on his face. He rounded out the set with a few more songs from his album, including “Chesapeake Lane” and a George Harrison cover. Then with a quick grin, and a few more magical guitar strums, LeBlanc made way for the main attraction — Lissie. With her flaxen hair tied in a loose knot, dressed in a pale yellow T-shirt and bellbottom jeans, Lissie looked every bit the bubbly folk rocker that she is. Proceeding straight into the opening number, accompanied by guitarist Eric Sullivan and bassist and drummer Lewis Keller, Lissie charmed the crowd with the self-deprecating Hank Williams cover, “Wedding Bells.” She continued plowing through songs, such as “Worried About” and “Here Before.” After each number, she would breathe out a delighted ‘thank you’ as though surprised to still be surrounded by an audience. And why wouldn’t she be? Lissie knows how to put on a performance. Her voice is raw and strong, singing lyrics that tell stories of innocent love and bravery. After tearing into each song relentlessly, she took occasional breaks to tell little stories to the audience, prefacing each song from her album with an explanation for its inspiration. For the knockout song “Bully” — which was without a doubt one of the highlights of the night — Lissie spoke briefly about her youth and how she felt out place, but how clinging to those who
loved her got her through those tough times. The song was a reflection of that feeling, with lyrics like “I know your heart’s been broken/ but martyrs never open doors/ the world is yours, carry this torch/ and use your voice.” She peppered the rest of her performance with little facts about herself. For example, Lissie only drinks tequila that is a hundred percent agave and willingly accepts shots from the audience (which immediately prompted a random audience member to send a shot up her way — which she took albeit begrudgingly). Before singing the song “Everywhere I Go,” Lissie told the crowd that because the music video for the song featured an elephant, she kisses a small elephant statue every time before singing that song onstage. After a tour de force performance, filled with chatter and delicious guitar solos, Lissie left the stage, and subsequently, fans wanting more. After returning for a much-needed encore, she performed the heartfelt ballad “Oh Mississippi,” and then the cover song that gained her recognition in the first place. After taking her traditional shot of tequila, Lissie and co. dove headfirst into an exhilarating rock cover of Kid Cudi’s ode to the fast life, “Pursuit of Happiness,” turning it into a rollicking and reflective rock song with a sweeping outpour of emotion. The luscious guitar solos didn’t hurt either. ydesta@theeagleonline.com
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TUESDAY 8
We Deliver Monday — Thursday 25% off for AU students (with valid ID) after 8:30 every night
PETE’S NEW HAVEN STYLE PIZZA Columbia Heights 202-332-PETE (7383) Tenleytown-Friendship Heights 202-237-PETE (7383) Hours of Operation: 11AM-10PM Sunday-Thursday 11AM-11PM Friday & Saturday
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VALENTINE’S DAY Come with a friend Come with a lover Come alone Just come
SCENE CALENDAR WEDNESDAY 9
THURSDAY 10
The Evil Cat 8 p.m. WHERE: The Passenger, 1021 7th Street, NW METRO: Metro Center (red/blue/orange lines) WHAT: The Washington Psychotronic Film Society is a group of film lovers who offer weekly screenings to obscure, off-beat films both new and old. Their first screening for Feb. features this 1986 Dennis Yu slasher about an imprisoned spirit of an evil cat breaking free and wreaking havoc. COST: Free ($2.00 suggested donation) CONTACT: www.wpfs.org
Out in the Silence 8 p.m. WHERE: Artisphere, 1101 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, Va. METRO: Rosslyn (blue/orange lines) WHAT: This inspirational documentary follows the controversy that ensues when filmmaker Joe Wilson proposes to another man. Created by Dean Hamer, “Out in the Silence” at the Artisphere will also be followed up with a discussion with Hamer and Wilson. COST: $6 CONTACT: www.arlingtonarts.com
Biffy Clyro 7 p.m. WHERE: Rock and Roll Hotel, 1353 H St. NE METRO: Union Station (red line) WHAT: Presented by AP, this show features Biffy Clyro on tour with the release of their latest album, “Only Revolutions.” They’re joined by Moving Mountains and Solar Powered Sun Destroyer. COST: $12 CONTACT: www.rockandrollhoteldc. com
FRIDAY 11
SATURDAY 12
SUNDAY 13
Baths 8:30 p.m. WHERE: Rock and Roll Hotel, 1353 H St. NE METRO: Union Station (red line) WHAT: Will Wiesenfeld of Baths received much acclaim after the release of his album, “Cerulean” with its interesting electronic sound and use of water imagery. He’s joined by Braids at the Rock and Roll Hotel as part of his ongoing tour. COST: $12 CONTACT: www.rockandrollhoteldc. com
Homo/Sonic 9:30 p.m. WHERE: Black Cat, 1811 14th St. NW METRO: U Street/AfricanAmerican War Memorial/ Cardozo (green and yellow lines) WHAT: Homo/Sonic is described as an “alternative dance night” for gays and the gay-friendly. This Black Cat debut will feature songs from the ‘80s, Britpop and indie. COST: $10 CONTACT: www.blackcatdc.com
Party Crashers All day WHERE: Artisphere, 1101 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, Va. METRO: Rosslyn (blue/orange lines) WHAT: Feb. 13 marks the last day for the “Party Crashers,” a collaborative effort by the Artisphere and the Arlington Arts Center which explores the influence of comic book art on established artists. The exhibition is curated by Cynthia Connolly. COST: Free CONTACT: www.arlingtonarts.com
• OPEN EARLY & LATE 7 DAYS • 24 HRS FRI & SAT • BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER SAT & SUN BRUNCH
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MONDAY 14 Valentine’s Day Rock & Roll Dance Party 8 p.m. WHERE: Black Cat, 1811 14th St. NW METRO: U Street/African-American War Memorial/Cardozo (green and yellow lines) WHAT: The Rock and Roll Hotel is celebrating Saint Valentine’s Day with a dance party featuring five different DJ’s. The event will be held in the Red Room. COST: Free CONTACT: www.blackcatdc.com
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A Hunger for Awareness – Part II By FELIX FUCHS The Incubator
I hope you liked the beginning of “A Hunger for Awareness.” It is the result of a lucky accident. As I was searching for the lyrics of the Casablanca theme, because it would not leave my system, I stumbled over the fact that the original text by Herman Hupfeld actually starts with a far deeper verse than just the famous lines “You must remember this /A kiss is still a kiss”. Other influences that had their share in telling my story range from the simple Christmas classic “Let It Snow” to Thomas Pynchons use of the shortened “Wha?” instead of the whole word. Also I am referring to the play “The Iceman Cometh” through the mentioning of the iceman as well as the so called “pipedream”. This play by Eugene O’Neill has a similar topic like Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman” which I connected to my story through the cliché of the lonely salesman who has failed in every aspect of his life — much like Willy Loman in Miller’s play. This time prepare for a change, not of setting, but concerning the point of view as the story continues… “Mommy, who is Einstein?” Pulling hard at her daughters hand to make her go a little faster, she barely turned. “What did you say?” “Who is Einstein?” the little girl queried, tears already forming in her eyes. “Oh, for God’s sake, who cares?” her mother retorted distractedly, unwilling to concern herself with her daughter’s petty little problems, at least not right now. She had just bought the tickets for her daughter, her husband and herself and was now desperately trying to find him again in the tumultuous bustle that was the old main station. He had said that he would be right back
in a minute. Just a last small errand he had to run. Oh, no, she thought, now he has finally left me. I should have paid closer attention to him, asked more about his work. At least I should have sounded more interested in his life. And now he dumped me and this child who is constantly crying about something she just picked up. Oh, God, what am I to do now. Should I wait for him and miss the train? Leave
like you, especially not on Christmas,” he tried to calm her. His voice almost sounded as if he was to burst into a song and the next melodious sentence seemed to ring a bell in her. Deep inside the tomb that was her fearful heart. “Don’t you know it, missus? Woman needs man / And man must have his mate…” Before she could answer and ask the man where he had heard those lines, someone grabbed her from be-
Courtesy of CAITLIN TREANOR
GETTIN’ HER GROOVE ON — The author, Caitlin Treanor, dances in the streets of Accra, Ghana. Adjusting to the Ghanian culture has proved to be an entertaining challenge.
Americans can’t dance “The world will always welcome lovers.” and never look back? Oh, dear Lord, I will have to live with mother again. Her sight blurred by tears, she ran into a small man in a suit who stood right in the middle of all the swarming people among the biggest of the three chandeliers which hung from the high ceiling, lighting the room dimly. “Easy, missus, easy. What’s the hurry?” he asked in a somber bass, almost sounding like a radio show host. “I… I think my husband has left me here and now… I…,” she ran out of words and ideas at the same time. She felt dizzy and sick and did not know for how much longer she would be able to stand upright. “Ah, missus, there ain’t no man in this town who would leave a sweet, pretty thing
hind spinning her and the child around. “Hello pretty,” she heard a familiar voice – his voice – whisper in her ear as he hugged her, “sorry, honey, but I had an appointment at the jewelry on the corner. Merry Christmas.” He handed her a small red box and she knelt down to open it, so her daughter could see what was in it. A small heart shaped gold necklace lay silently on a small cushion in the box. Next to it there stuck a small card with the handwriting of her husband. “What’s it say, mommy?” She gulped and started to cry. “The world will always welcome lovers.” blogs@theeagleonline.com
By CAITLIN TREANOR The Incubator
ACCRA, Ghana — We also can’t bargain, navigate without street names, deal with heat and behave politely. In a country like Ghana, these are necessities! The very first thing you notice about Ghana is the heat— unsurprisingly. Then it’s the high number of women who had learned to defy gravity, balancing frighteningly large amounts of random items on their head while carrying a baby on their back, interacting with people around them using both hands, talking, bargaining and likely doing backflips when I’m not looking. I was among the first students to arrive in the capital of Ghana — Accra. After getting through customs we were bussed to a nice hotel, where we were spoiled with air conditioning, expensive food, internet connection and our own bathrooms with relatively consistent running water. It was great! After two nights at this hotel we went to the University of Ghana to settle in. It was a bit different. There was no air conditioning, our rooms were quite dirty, the bathrooms didn’t have toilet paper or soap, there was no Internet, etc. I could go on! But I knew
my accommodations were not going to be like they were in D.C. There is a constant layer of dirt, sweat, bug spray and sunscreen on my skin. I look good. To make things more difficult, with the side effects from malaria pills, the heat, the new food, the bagged water, and a host of other random problems, people have been consistently ill. I’m just going to assume these things will get better! One thing that is difficult to get used to is how white I am. Everybody notices you, and most are surprised to see you. A lot of the people are very friendly, and will simply greet you and ask how you are. Kids will wave frantically, grab your arm, laugh at you or ask for money. People will take your arm and put it up next to theirs, marveling at how different the skin tones are. It’s usually very pleasant or funny. However some of the Ghanaian men are less than respectful. They will stop you, try to get information from you, follow you around, compliment you excessively, and generally harass you. It’s impossible to avoid and difficult to put an end to. Ghanaian women also have some preconceptions about Americans — including men. We are seen as very incapable. In comparison to many of the
Ghanaians, this is partially true! However, I have had my shoes put on for me, been told how to carry a bucket by its handle, shown how a broom works, and many other random things. It’s a bit patronizing, but their intentions are good so it’s nearly impossible to feel insulted! Nearly every time you exchange money, some bargaining will be involved. My very first day in Ghana, we went to a street market. First we bargained with a taxi to take us there, and paid slightly higher than a local would — but it wasn’t too bad. Once we got to the market, it was chaos. Cars mixed in with people on the streets, and sellers ran at you from all sides to drag you to their stalls or show you an item in their hands. We bought some items, and paid too much for them. In fact, I spent so much on a bracelet that a woman came over and asked how much I paid. When she got the answer, she was completely shocked. It was embarrassing. All in all, it’s a lot to get used to. I have many more things to write about and will in the coming weeks — when I can actually get online! blogs@theeagleonline.com
!"#$%&$'()*(+,-from EAGLES on page 20 in the second half, Brewer hit three straight jumpers to give AU a slight edge before his teammates would follow suit and give the Eagles their largest lead up until that point at 4136. For the first time, it looked like one team had a chance to put their opponent away for good when a Moldoveanu three-pointer gave AU a nine-point lead, 52-43. Lehigh was able to remain in the game thanks to their scoring leader, C.J. McCollum, who would finish with 21 points and 10 rebounds. The Mountain Hawks’ guard then hit back-to-back three-pointers before Lehigh’s Gabe Knutson’s capped off a 7-1 run with a dunk in the final minute and tied the game at 61. Though the Eagles had given up a large lead, there was still time to get the ball down the court and put up a shot for the win. AU’s scoring leader, Brewer, put up a would-be-game-winning shot but it fell short. Luckily, Moldoveanu was there to grab the ball. When he went for the last second shot he was fouled, which sent him to the line and meant the end for the Mountain Hawks. Brewer finished the game with a team-high 17 points, with help from Moldeveanu and Lumpkins who both netted 13. McCollum did not receive much help from his teammates as he was the only member of the Lehigh squad to finish in double digits. With the victory, AU improves its Patriot League record to 6-2, which is good for second place in the conference. The Eagles next game is tomorrow night in Lewisburg, Pa. where they take on the conference-leading Bucknell University Bison. slindauer@theeagleonline. com !
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Breaking down the Super Bowl: winners and losers The good, the bad and the ugly of SB XLV By TYLER TOMEA Eagle Staff Writer
What’s the best way to recap the Green Bay Packers 31-25 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XLV, you ask? With a 700-word “Winners and Losers” column, of course!
Winners
FOX Sports The last four Super Bowls broadcast on Fox have each been decided by six points or less. Included in this stretch has been a game between two of the NFL’s top fan bases (Pittsburgh and Green Bay), two of the biggest upsets in Super Bowl history (New York over New England and New England over St. Louis) and the culmination of the Patriots dynasty (New England over Philadelphia). Is this simply a stroke of good luck? Absolutely! Up until 2006, the game rotated among the four major networks, and is now alternated between FOX, CBS and NBC. But somewhere, FOX Sports President Eric Shanks is smiling. Aaron Rodgers And I think this just set the record for most obvious “Winner” in a Super Bowl recap column of all-time. This year, Rodgers has performed the impressive task of stepping out of a legend’s shadow, defeating a convicted felon and taking down a quarterback twice accused of sexual assault, all in the same postseason! As for his performance on Sunday, all it does is put the exclamation point on Rodgers’ ascension to the top of the quarterback class. His 304yard, three-touchdown dissection of the Pittsburgh defense is as good a performance as I’ve seen in a Super Bowl, and the stat line could have even been better if not for a few costly drops. The biggest praise I can give Rodgers is that, just like the other great quarterbacks, he makes his receivers better. How many receptions would Austin Collie bring in if not for
his quarterback? How about Deion Branch? Jordy Nelson and James Jones are good players. But they’re not a combined 14 catches for 190 yards and a touchdown good. Elite quarterbacks make those around them better, and that’s what Rodgers has done. Howard Green If you’re not from Wisconsin or are a Green Bay Packers fan, I could give you a thousand guesses before you realize Howard Green is an NFL defensive tackle. But Green’s play was as big as any in Super Bowl XLV. With the Steelers backed up on their own seven-yard line late in the opening quarter, Ben Roethlisberger was ready to hit a streaking Mike Wallace down the left sideline to tie the game 7-7. Wallace had his man beat, but Green surged through the line and hit Roethlisberger’s arm during his throwing motion. This resulted in one of the easiest interceptions of Nick Collins’ career, which he returned for a touchdown and a 14-0 lead. In a game where Green Bay knew it was just a matter of time before Pittsburgh made its run, any early lead the Packers built would be crucial.
Losers
Pittsburgh’s Two-Minute Offense Some of the words I’ve seen used to describe Pittsburgh’s final drive: “confused,” “discombobulated,” “Redskins-esque.” And If I hadn’t told you I made that last one up, I’m sure you would’ve believed it. In a situation where Pittsburgh has thrived in years past, the Steelers were not on the same page at all, as evidenced by Wallace not knowing the play on the drive’s third down. I never thought I’d see Pittsburgh unravel with the game on the line like that. Shaun Suisham This falls partly on the shoulders of Mike Tomlin, who thought it would be a good idea to call Suisham out for
a 52-yard field goal. A good kick in this situation, however unlikely, still keeps Green Bay in front. But a miss gives one of the league’s hottest offenses starting field position at their own 42-yard line. As for the kick, the ball missed about 10 yards to the left. Remember, the game was played with the roof closed. Yikes! Whoever Watched The Game For The Cheerleaders Because there weren’t any. Of the six NFL teams that do not have cheerleaders, two of them played this past Sunday, making this the first Super Bowl in its 45-year history without cheerleaders. There is a joke to be made here somewhere, and I could go that route, but I don’t think either of my editors would let it appear in the paper. ttomea@theeagleonline. com
AU wrestling team dispatches Binghamton University http://eagl.us/goLdyF
MARK NATALE/ THE EAGLE
Name: Lisa Strack Age: 20 Hometown: Langhorne, Pa. Grade/School: Junior/Kogod School of Business Position: Guard Why did you decide to come to AU to play basketball? “A lot of it had to do with the academics and the intensity level of the basketball program. The Patriot League every year every team has an opportunity to win, so I like the competition.” Where do you see yourself in 10 years? “Hopefully a job somewhere. But with a family and I would love to still be involved in sports, specifically basketball, whether it’s coaching or anything.” What is your best sports moment at AU? “Probably last year’s Patriot League tournament we really came in and played hard and showed that we deserved to be in the championship game. Obviously the championship didn’t go our way but it was a great experience.”
GP
PPG
FG%
3PT%
FT%
RBP
APG
2010-11
22
11.7
42.2
32.0
82.4
4.8
2.7
2009-10
8.8
42.3
27.4
74.7
4.4
2.0
2.0
2008-9
3.2
31.7
18.4
52.9
1.9
1.1
1.1
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Poor shooting leads to loss against Patriot League rival By SAM RAPHELSON
Eagle Contributing Writer
MARK NATALE / THE EAGLE
GOING UP STRONG — Sophomore center Stephanie Anya shoots over a defender in AU’s 57-46 loss to Lehigh University. The Eagles’ next game is Wednesday night against Bucknell University in Bender Arena.
LISA STRACK GUARD — #15
The AU women’s basketball team failed to sustain offensive momentum in a 57-46 loss to Lehigh University. This Eagles team has established themselves as a strong shooting team, but they only shot 29.4 percent from the field and 18.8 percent from three on Saturday. Senior forward Liz Leer led the team with 12 points, followed by Nicole Ryan at 10 points. Head Coach Matt Corkery said that the main reason for the loss was inconsistent offensive play. “We just never got in a rhythm offensively,” Corkery said. “Never got anything going consistently for a long period of time, and our offense really sputtered and struggled most of the game.” For most of the first half, the team fought on defense to try to make up for a struggling offense. After early baskets by Lisa Strack and Tori Halvorsen it seemed as though the Eagles were struggling just to keep possession of the ball. With nine minutes remaining in the opening half, the Mountain Hawks took the lead, which they would not relinquish until the midway through the second half. Heading into the second half, AU trailed, 22-21. The Eagles failed to score for the first few minutes of the half until Leer came up with a layup followed by another two points. With Lehigh leading 40-30 with 10:02 remaining, the Eagles went on a 12-2 run to tie the game up at 42. The Eagles hit their stride when Ryan hit back threepointers followed by another three from Strack. Unfortunately after that run, the defense faltered.
“That spurt was when we were playing our best, it was when we were pushing the tempo, when we were in control, when we were attacking them,” Leer said. “Then they hit a wide open layup because we didn’t communicate enough on defense and then we couldn’t come back after that.” In the remaining minutes, the offense improved at the expense of the defense. Every time AU scored, Lehigh scored twice, leading to the 57-46 Mountain Hawks’ victory. Lehigh’s Erica Prosser led the Mountain Hawks with 29 points, five rebounds and three steals. She completely dominated the lackluster AU defense. “Prosser killed us, I mean she was running down our throats,” Leer said. “It’s not just whoever’s guarding her to take care of it and we didn’t do a good job of stopping her.” In preparation for Bucknell University on Wednesday at Bender Arena, Corkery said the team needs to work on their mental game more than anything. “I think that’s the biggest area of improvement for us is mental, you know our concentration, our focus, and our mental toughness,” he said. “It’s a quick turnaround. We’ll have three days to get ready for Bucknell, a team that’s very good. For us I think it’s getting back to the basics and what we do as far as our roles on the team and just trying to execute them.” The loss knocks AU’s conference record down to a 5-3 and their overall record to 15-7. The Eagles are in second place for the Patriot League. sports@theeagleonline.com
+, Eagles win nail-biter with lastsecond free throw By SAM LINDAUER Eagle Staff Writer
Somehow, senior forward Vlad Moldoveanu finds himself in key moments in big games and Sunday’s 62-61 victory over Lehigh on the road was no different. With just two seconds remaining in the game, Moldoveanu hit one of two free throws to give AU the lead. The Patriot League matchup remained close all the way until those final seconds as the Eagles and Mountain Hawks would trade leads and never pull too far in front of the other. AU started the game with momentum as they took a 6-0 early lead while holding Lehigh scoreless for the first five minutes. But like most advantages in this game, it did not last for long. The Mountain Hawks went on a run of their own and pulled ahead 9-8 early in the first half. Over the course of the next five minutes, the two teams would trade the lead four times. Late first-half efforts from junior guards Charles Hinkle and Troy Brewer gave the Eagles a 26-23 lead before a Lehigh buzzer beater pulled the Mountain Hawks to within one. The first half leaders for AU were junior forward Stephen Lumpkins who had eight points and six rebounds along with Hinkle’s and Brewer’s five points apiece. Both teams were evenly matched in the first half, as the Eagles shot 34 percent from the field while the Mountain Hawks were a slightly better 36 percent. The second half brought better shooting from both teams, but neither team was able to pull away. After falling behind early ! see EAGLES on page 19