The Towerlight (Nov. 25, 2014) by The Towerlight

Photo illustration by Sarah Hugel/The Towerlight

November 25, 2014

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November 25, 2014

Despite Towson’s final football game of the season, one piece of news particularly swept through social media: Goats. When the University announced that it would bring a group of goats to campus to help clean up weeds in the Glen Woods, students were swept up in the news about the furry creatures. For a full story on the goats, visit thetowerlight.com. In the mean time, the football team suffered a huge loss to Rhode Island, which was previously winless on the year.

#GOATS

#Towson football

Hahaha my college recruited goats from the county I grew up in to do some groundskeeping. Amazing.

Why are there goats roaming around on Towson’s campus rn?

@StephanieSings3

@sjkmcmahon

Towson football loses to Rhode Island, a winless team. That about sums of this season.

Son if we lose to Rhode Island I will have lost all faith in Towson Football..

@MikeHundreds10

@cbsmitty94

Towson had to get the goats on a weekend because during the week they’re busy running the University’s parking.

@TimmyWade94

@briepheif13

To have your Twitter, Instagram and Facebook posts featured in The Towerlight, tag them with #TLtrending

November 25, 2014

Editor-in-Chief Jonathan Munshaw Senior Editor Devorah Roberts

Thanksgiving: a time for Senior Editorial: Finding meditation, introspection friends, unexpected home

News Editor Cody Boteler Assoc. News Editor Sam Shelton Arts & Life Editor Carley Milligan Sports Editor Matt Hamilton Staff Writers James Greene Payam Agha-Ghassem Annie Sragner Tyler Beard Paige Sudol Nilo Exar Caitlin Wolfarth Kati Day Robert Wood Christine LaFrancesca Tyler Young Daryllee Hale Kristen Zdon Photo Editor Sarah Hugel Assoc. Photo Editor Abby Murphy Assist. Photo Editors Elizabeth Bonica Patrick Burke Symone Garvett Staff Photographers Daryllee Hale Glen Banks Mariana Rosado Assist. Video Producers Sarah Chmielowiec Danielle Gibson Staff Videographers Stacey Coles Ashley Beall Joseph Hawkins Gabby Slocum Proofreaders Kira McCall Desmond Boyle Kaitlyn McKay Social Media Staff Adam Butt Kayla Baines Alexia Simmons General Manager Mike Raymond Art Director Danielle Frater Production Staff Brooke Basta Kara Bucaro Webmaster Hafiz Aina Web Staff Lola Akinleye Circulation Staff Christopher George Glen Banks Ian McIntyre Travis Duppstadt

8000 York Road University Union Room 309 Towson, MD 21252 business: (410) 704-5153 editorial: (410) 704-5141 editor@thetowerlight.com thetowerlight.com The Towerlight print edition is published by students of Towson University on Tuesdays. The Towerlight is owned by nonprofit Baltimore Student Media Inc., BaltimoreStudentMedia.com. The Towerlight’s advertising deadlines are firm: classified advertising & display — Monday, noon for Thursday; Thursday, noon for Monday. Line classified ads will only be accepted online at www. thetowerlight.com/classifieds. Call (410) 704-5153 for more information. We encourage letters to the editor and online feedback. Commentaries, letters to the editor, editorial cartoons and other editorial content expresses the opinions of their authors and not necessarily the views of the newspaper. The Towerlight does not discriminate based on age, color, condition of handicap, marital status, national origin, race, religion, gender or sexual orientation. ©2014 by The Towerlight, 8000 York Rd, Towson, MD 21252. All rights reserved.

Please Recycle!

Ah, a muchneeded break has arrived. Thanksgiving break offers students a reminding glimmer of hope that the semester is winding down. A semester only comprises roughly four months, but the time within that period moves capriciously, with all of the schoolwork and responsibilities demanded of us. When you’re sitting through a tedious lecture, time trudges. But when you’re scrambling to study for a test, time rushes. It is easy to become so consumed in the daily lifestyle of school and work where we forget to cherish the here and now. This break is the perfect opportunity to unwind and assess the situations of school and the rest of life; but you don’t need a break to do this. Anytime is fine. The present moment is always here, but always fleeting, so it is important to appreciate what we have while we have it. Meditation is an excellent way to tap into the experiences we often sacrifice for busyness. Many people think meditation is just a way to relax, but it offers so much more to us. It is an opportunity to pay attention to the sensations of the environments inward and outward. A key aspect of meditation is to notice the thoughts and distractions of the mind, and acknowledge them as they pass. It is a time to refrain from running

Annie Sragner

Staff Writer @a_swaggner

after the negative and aim to seek the positive. Meditation is an un-striving and passive process, which yields extraordinary results. Meditation provides mediation between the mind and the heart. Take a few moments over break to slow down and assess how you are doing — not necessarily as a student, but as a person. Appreciate all that your healthy body and brain do for you while they are busy taking care of external tasks. Focus on your breath and see where your thoughts drift to without judging them. Feel your heartbeat, and think about the wonders happening inside you. But with the list of obligations piling up on the to-do list, conscious passivity seems like anathema. The brain is wired to think and problem-solve during waking hours, and it can be difficult to divert from this state to a more pleasant state, but mindfulness is a skill that develops with practice. Juggling hectic schedules requires a familiarity with prioritization. This mental skill is needed almost constantly. And soon that familiarity will morph into mastery, but it is not always the healthiest of evolutions. Use this break to your advantage, but remember that you can incorporate introspection to calm things down at any time. Be kind to yourself and give thanks for your achievements, while pardoning your defeats.

I won’t lie to From my first experience in the you, I never actuoffice until 5 a.m. to some hilariStaff Videographer ally wanted to ous office pranks, I honestly cancome to Towson. not imagine my Towson experience High-school me was against the without this place. university for whatever reason I I’ve met some interesting people don’t remember. throughout my time here. Four years later, I am so glad I Shamus has been my bearded did. sage guiding me to the final boss — In my experience at The graduation. Towerlight alone, I’ve Devorah is the gained skills, friends tag-team partner I and a ridiculous colcan summon whenCliche yearbooklection of ponies that ever I need a break. I will have for a lifeNot to mention esque writing aside, the countless others time. I’m going to miss this that have made this I’ve taken on many place. It was excit- journey so memoroles here, including every aspect of the ing and terrifying and rable. video section you can Cliché yearbookincredible... imagine, to being a esque writing aside, proofreader. I’m going to miss this place. It was I even had my own column for a exciting and terrifying and incredwhile. ible and yet somehow so perfect. I’ve never thought of myself as And because I couldn’t end on much of a writer, but I’m so glad I any other note but with the amazing had the opportunity here to try it lyrics of Darren Criss, “This must be out. how it feels to have a home.”

Ashley Beall

“

SEND A LETTER TO THE EDITOR Do you have an opinion? A complaint? You may even have some words of praise. If you do, send a letter to the editor and have it published in an upcoming edition of The Towerlight. Submit a letter to the editor at editor@thetowerlight.com.

Opinion

November 25, 2014

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Word on the Street What’s your favorite Thanksgiving food and why?

e e

d —

“Pain”

e I -

n s s -

Adrienne Luciano

, s -

n g e

Elizabeth Bonica/ The Towerlight Assistant Photo Editor Elizabeth Bonica took this photo outside of her backyard in New Jersey.

Bria Murray

STUDENTS FACULTY AND STAFF

Perform at your best Call today or visit us to schedule an appointment 74 07 YORK ROA D | TOWSO N , M D 2 1 2 04

“One simply does not have one favorite. I love it all if made by my grandmother.”

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“Sweet potato casserole” @Cee_NoBull

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“Stuffing: it’s a euphemism”

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410.821.7200 Stay align and keep feeling fine.

November 25, 2014

Editor-in-Chief Jonathan Munshaw Senior Editor Devorah Roberts

Thanksgiving: a time for Senior Editorial: Finding meditation, introspection friends, unexpected home

Please Recycle!

Annie Sragner

Staff Writer @a_swaggner

Ashley Beall

“

Opinion

November 25, 2014

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Word on the Street What’s your favorite Thanksgiving food and why?

e e

d —

“Pain”

e I -

n s s -

Adrienne Luciano

, s -

n g e

Elizabeth Bonica/ The Towerlight Assistant Photo Editor Elizabeth Bonica took this photo outside of her backyard in New Jersey.

Bria Murray

STUDENTS FACULTY AND STAFF

Perform at your best Call today or visit us to schedule an appointment 74 07 YORK ROA D | TOWSO N , M D 2 1 2 04

“One simply does not have one favorite. I love it all if made by my grandmother.”

RANGE OF SERVICES Chiropractic Health Physical Therapy Massage Therapy

CONVENIENT & CLOSE

“Sweet potato casserole” @Cee_NoBull

Located between Stevenson Lane and Bill Bateman’s Bistro with Saturday hours

“Stuffing: it’s a euphemism”

MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED TJ Sebastian

410.821.7200 Stay align and keep feeling fine.

News

November 25, 2014

International education week

It’s on us

TU joins effort to raise awareness of sexual violence CAITLIN WOLFARTH Staff Writer

Sarah Hugel/ The Towerlight

International Initiatives celebrates International Education Week 2014 with a World Food and Craft Fair in the West Village Commons ballrooms. International Education week ran from November 16-21 and included other events like an International Cafe, Foreign Languages Fair, movie night and other information sessions.

“It’s On Us” is a nation-wide campaign that aims to reform the way people view sexual assault. Recently, Towson’s Student Government Association has been taking the lead on this campaign among Maryland universities. “We want to get the message out that sexual violence and sexual assault happen more often than we think,” SGA Director of Legislative Affairs Nicole Psoras said. “It’s important to report it when it does happen.” “It’s On Us” was first brought to Towson by SGA Deputy Chief of Staff Brandon Wharton, who heard of it through the University of System of Maryland Student Council. “It was an initiative that was brought up to the council and from there it was something that Towson University showed a very big interest in,” Wharton said. Students can participate by filming a short 10-15 second video message on topics concerning sexual

assault and violence. Students can also take the pledge on itsonus.org to help stop the issue. Towson’s second “It’s On Us” PSA video, which focused on the topic of consent, was filmed on Thursday and Friday. According to Wharton, Towson’s participation in the campaign has been recognized by the Maryland Higher Education Commission. “We were at a MHEC meeting a few weeks ago, and now they want us to produce the video that they want to have at the council,” Wharton said. “It’s great to see that Towson has been taking the lead on this because it’s really all about awareness.” According to Psoras, students have been very willing to participate. “We’ve had a lot of participation from students, whether it’s doing a video, or just taking the pledge,” Psoras said. Wharton said that students have taken notice of the campaign. “I think that there is a great sentiment among the student body that this is something they want to get involved in,” he said.

“Big Brother” winner visits TU OTS to bring Office Dan Gheesling shares leadership skills 365 to campus SARAH KAIDER Contributing Writer @sarah_a_kaider

“Big Brother” 10 winner Dan Gheesling visited campus Friday to speak to students and members of the community about finding success as a leader. “I saw he tweeted for a student program, and I wanted to meet him, so I applied and did whatever I could to bring him here,” Towson Student Ambassador Aakash Pancholi said. Gheesling, who in addition to winning the 10th season of CBS reality game show “Big Brother” and placing second in season 14, defined leadership as “a person who people want to follow.” He said that by following his six steps, one could be successful in any field. During the presentation, entitled “The Six Necessary Duties of Epic Leaders,” Gheesling advised that students should be proactive about

interacting with those around them. “If you take action, you’ll be a better leader,” Gheesling said.

“

[Gheesling is] a very down to earth guy. He’s leading by example and you can see that in his everyday life. BILLY GOHEEN Sophomore, Towson University

He recommended that students try to get to know the people they work with by following up, keeping in touch, asking at least 10 questions per conversation and offering suggestions to those in need of assistance. Gheesling also recommended not getting involved in gossip, talking

to those who tend to be alone and remembering to ask oneself how he or she acted as a leader every night. During his presentation, Gheesling also took tweets from Towson students and put them up on the screen. He explained that he looked up each of those students and learned three things about them to show that he could follow his own advice about getting to know people and following up with them later. “[The presentation] was helpful and inspiring,” junior Kayla Williams said. In addition to Towson, Gheesling has also spoken at schools like Northwestern University, Vassar College, MacEwan University and Keene State. In a post on his website, Gheesling describes coaching as “[his] life’s work.” “[Gheesling is] a very down to earth guy. He’s leading by example and you can see that in his everyday life,” sophomore Billy Goheen said.

CAITLIN WOLFARTH Staff Writer

With the start of the spring semester, the Office of Technology Services will make Microsoft Office 365 available for free to students and faculty. “Microsoft Office 365 is a set of cloud-hosted collaboration and office suite applications that will allow Towson University to provide services and storage quotas that we cannot feasibly do on campus,” Project Manager for the Office 365 project Thomas Alcide said. According to Alcide, Office 365 will benefit students and faculty by giving them “better collaboration platforms, easy access from any location and improved storage.” Some specific key features that Office 365 includes are Office Suite Pro download, One Drive file storage and sharing with a 1-terabyte limit, SharePoint project collaboration and document sharing for groups and web-based versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote.

Although the program comes with email and calendar features, there are no current plans to replace the already existing student and faculty Gmail accounts. “Students, faculty and staff can download full offline copies of Office 2013 Professional Plus, Office 2011 for Mac and Office for iPad on up to 5 machines and 5 tablets per user at no cost,” Alcide said. “As far as project costs, there is no licensing fee for Office 365 for Education, however, there is a cost for staff resources, consulting hours and supporting software tools.” According to Alcide, the discussion and planning of Office 365 for Towson has been going on for a few years. In January of 2014, the project was presented by Director of Enterprise and Infrastructure Services Mark Addy to the Executive Information Technology Committee. When available, OTS will communicate with the campus and give instructions on how to access and use Office 365.

News

November 25, 2014

Guest prof. talks drugs, politics November 14: In Newell Hall, a resident student assaulted another resident by pointing at and touching the student with a knife. November 15: In Towson Run Apartments, a resident student and a commuter student were cited for alcohol possession. November 16: In Millennium Hall, a former TU student assaulted a current student after an argument. The students had previously been in a relationship. November 17: In Residence Tower, two resident students were referred for CDS possession. November 18:In the Glen Garage, a hit and run resulted in property damage. November 19: In Douglass House, a resident student received a threatening phone call asking for money. An investigation determined the call to be a hoax that is occuring nationwide. Nilo Exar/ The Towerlight Guest lecturer James Stacey Taylor explains how, in his view, drug peddlers are morally superior to politicians. NILO EXAR Staff Writer @niloexar

According to James Stacey Taylor, of the College of New Jersey, drug peddlers are morally superior to politicians. Taylor visited campus on Nov. 18 to speak and host an open forum about drug dealers and governmental force. According to Taylor, drug peddlers facilitate voluntary transactions between people, while governments

and politicians distribute goods and services without permission from anyone — making the drug dealers morally superior. He continued that politicians are paid by the taxpayers to make choices that are not exactly what the people might want. In an economic sense, that is not a very fair transaction, Taylor said. Drug peddlers are in fact “vicious” and “vindictive” in the way they go

about their business practices, Taylor said, referring to the violence of drug cartels. However, he said this is as a result of government interference in their business, and that the violence stems from the illegality of the substances that they distribute. Taylor pointed out that the Drug War in Mexico has resulted in fewer civilian casualties than the Iraq War. - To read the full story, visit www.thetowerlight.com

November 20: In the West Village Commons, a commuter student was cited for destruction of property. November 21: In Tubman House, a resident student was referred to the Office of Student Conduct and Civility Education for assualting his roommate. November 21: In Barton House, there was a noise complaint. The Towerlight’s “Police Blotter” is a representative sample of crimes occurring on and off campus. The blotter is not intended to be all inclusive. For a list of all crime reports, visit www.towson.edu/police.

December 1 @ PAWS Lounge

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Giveaways, free food and raffles for graduating seniors! Hosted by the TU Alumni Association

Graduating Seniors: The TU Alumni Association and the Office of Alumni Relations would like to invite you to this year’s Graduation Station, your one-stop shop for all graduation materials and resources. Get ready for graduation with information about The Career Center, Alumni Association, Graduate School, Senior Philanthropy, Athletics, and more! While you are there, enjoy free food provided by the Office of Alumni Relations. Stop by for giveaways and the chance to win great raffle prizes!

Contact the office of Alumni Relations with questions: 410.704.2234 or alumni@towson.edu

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News

November 25, 2014

International education week

It’s on us

TU joins effort to raise awareness of sexual violence CAITLIN WOLFARTH Staff Writer

Sarah Hugel/ The Towerlight

“Big Brother” winner visits TU OTS to bring Office Dan Gheesling shares leadership skills 365 to campus SARAH KAIDER Contributing Writer @sarah_a_kaider

interacting with those around them. “If you take action, you’ll be a better leader,” Gheesling said.

“

[Gheesling is] a very down to earth guy. He’s leading by example and you can see that in his everyday life. BILLY GOHEEN Sophomore, Towson University

CAITLIN WOLFARTH Staff Writer

News

November 25, 2014

December 1 @ PAWS Lounge

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Giveaways, free food and raffles for graduating seniors! Hosted by the TU Alumni Association

Contact the office of Alumni Relations with questions: 410.704.2234 or alumni@towson.edu

1014.050

Novemeber 25, 2014

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Arts&Life

Novemeber 25, 2014

Dance of ‘legends’ RACHEL WALTEMEYER Contributing Writer

Towson University’s Dance Company transported audiences into the past this weekend with their captivating fall performance “Legends,” that highlighted numerous American music icons of the 20th century, and the hard work of TUDC. “We represent an American culture, an American pop culture of what it was like decades ago,” artistic director of “Legends” and dance professor Runqiao Du said. “It is life experience embedded in the music, so we wanted to represent Americana in our piece.” Legends, which will continue to run until Dec. 7, features 11 songs that represent American culture evolving through time with music by Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Roberta Flack, Bill Withers, James Brown, Nina Simone, Michael Jackson and many others. The show also displays work by DC’s award winning choreographer, Christopher K. Morgan. “Whoever’s in the audience that’s familiar with the oldies but goodies or the classical music can go back and kind of reminisce, and say oh this is where we come from,” senior and dance performance major Jessica Pinkett said. “We’re the physical manifestation of each and every piece of music that you hear on the stage.” The timeless songs were chosen to inspire the audience by connecting clear political themes from the past to present through the beauty and complexity of dance. “Dance is one of the most primitive and earliest expressions, to express happiness or sorrow or love,” Du said. “Legends” choreographer and associate professor of dance Vincent E. Thomas said he hopes that the performance will act as a catalyst for conversation between young people and their older family members, particularly over the holiday. “They will remember where they were when they first heard this song. They will be introduced to some art-

ists they may not know but their parents and their grandparents will know,” Thomas said. For freshman and dance performance major, Cassidy Miller, this performance marks her first at Towson, and hopes that her art will inspire Towson students to search for their own art within. “We don’t want to inspire you to dance, we just want to inspire you to embrace dancing, and take things with the best that it can be. Because I hope that they [students] can see how much we love to dance on stage so hopefully that will inspire them,” Miller said. Linda Denise Fisher-Harrell, “Legends” choreographer and associate professor of dance, also hopes that Towson students will attend the concert to see the work that their peers have been doing. “I think we [TUDC] are known as the best kept secret of Towson because people always come and see a concert and say oh my god I didn’t realize how wonderful the dance department was here,” Fisher-Harrell said. Thomas added that he hopes that audience members enjoy the performance and get to see the athleticism and dedication of the TUDC’s performers. “I think what they will experience is tapping their foot and they’ll be dancing in their seat,” Thomas said.

Photos by Sarah Hugel/ The Towerlight

Towson University Dance Company put on their fall performance “Legends” last week in Stephens Hall Theater.

Artistic adventures Over my past few weeks in London I’ve been trying to explore parts of the city I’m unfamiliar with, instead Sydney Adamson of just sticking Columnistr to my bubble in @ssydneytaylor Kensington. This week consisted of more music, more photography and another visit to Tate Modern. I’ve been to two concerts in London: The 1975 and Ed Sheeran. Both shows, albeit incredible experiences, took place in massive venues with 10,000plus people in the audience. As such, I’ve found myself missing tiny bar venues in Baltimore such as The Ottobar. So when I was invited to see a band called MassMatiks at a small pub in north London I just about jumped at

Courtesy of Sydney Adamson

the chance. The basement area where out exactly the way I wanted. But I MassMatiks performed was small pushed myself outside of my comfort but still comfortable, and the walls zone to get closer and talk to the musiwere layered in posters and stickers. I cians more. Even though I haven’t yet instantly felt right at home. Seeing a developed my film, I have a good feellocal London band made me appreciate ing that these photos are going to be the city’s artistic offerings even more very strong. than I already do. Not only that, it was I also thought another visit to Tate very inspirational to see how obviously Modern was necessary. I didn’t get to passionate the band is about see all the art I wanted to see performing. the first time I went, so I’ve also realized that the second time around I no matter where I go in tackled floors two-four. London, there’s almost That may not sound always music playlike a lot, but I got to ing. And that’s exactly see more of Picasso’s what’s inspired the conpieces, a Jackson EYE ON LONDON Pollock and some powerful cept for my final photography project. As I mentioned photographs of Syria by the last week, I’ve been visiting various hot photographer Hrair Sarkissian. spots around London (South Bank, With less than three weeks left in Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, etc.) London, I’ve started to take note of to photograph street musicians. It’s the things I still want to do while I’m been eye-opening to wander around here. I can’t believe how easily time these places and explore streets I didn’t has slipped away from me, and my list even know existed. Hearing free music is somewhat lengthy. I’ve heard great doesn’t hurt, either. things about “Matilda The Musical,” so But as you can imagine it’s not very I would love to go see that. I’ve also yet easy to get close enough to a street to go on the Harry Potter Studio tour so performer without drawing attention to that’s at the top of my list as well. But yourself or making the performer feel all of those bucket list items will have uncomfortable. Because of my timidity to wait for now, because this weekend my first two rolls of film did not turn I’m off to Scotland for more adventure.

A sinful movie to kill for “Sin City: A Dame to Kill For” is the sequel to 2005 film, “Sin City.” Like the first film, the sequel is co-directed and written by Frank Miller and adapted from his graphic novel series of the same name. In terms of plot, the sequel is structured the same as its predecessor. It is an anthology film, comprised of multiple stories that all take place in appropriately named Sin City, where crime and violence are a part of life. The film is separated into three different stories where the different characters cross paths with one another as they embark on their own path for vengeance. The sequel largely keeps what was entertaining about the first film: Morally corrupt characters from all walks of life, high contrast of black and white film with some splashes of color, great performances from talented actors and fun, over-the-top action. The sequel also sees the return of many characters from the original, most notably Marv (Mickey Rourke) who is arguably the first film’s most memorable character, Dwight McCarthy (Josh Brolin), who

Kaitlyn McKay Columnist

replaced Clive Owen from the previous film, and Nancy (Jessica Alba), the classic stripper with a heart of gold. Two of the three stories featured were made for the film. The only one from the graphic novels is the second story, “A Dame to Kill For,” where Dwight is reunited with his old flame Ava Lord (Eva Green), four years after she leaves him for a wealthy man. The other two stories, “The Long Bad Night” and “Nancy’s Last Dance,” were written specifically for the film and are considerably weaker than any of the other stories in both the first and second film. The first story, which features a young man named Johnny (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) who returns to Sin City only to end up on the bad side of the city’s unofficial ruler, Senator Roark (Powers Boothe), feels like filler. While the second story follows another adventure of a familiar character and the third story is a sequel to an event that happened in the previous film, the first story does not do

much, as Johnny is less interesting than the other characters. The only thing the first story does well is provide more screen time for Boothe, who only had a few scenes in the first film. Joseph Gordon-Levitt tries his best as Johnny, but the character is too dull for the world of Sin City. Eva Green as Dwight’s former girlfriend, Ava, is the complete opposite. Green is a femme fatale straight out of a classical 1940’s film noir. Green is seductive and perfect as the venomous Ava and fits right in the dark, dreary atmosphere of Sin City. The returning actors are all still on point, even after nine years since they first portrayed their characters. Mickey Rourke fits right back in as Marv as though he never stopped playing him and Rosario Dawson as Gail, Dwight’s old friend from Sin City’s red light district, is as hot headed and tough as she was in the first film. Every actor is great in this film. Is the sequel still as good as the first? No, but it is still just as fun.

Arts&Life

Novemeber 25, 2014

Downtown specialty sushi I use quite a different Columnist few @GoodEatsMD resources when searching for my next restaurant to review. The Internet, Food Network, social media and The Baltimore Sun are my go-to’s. Every so often I’ll get a recommendation that I have to go to a particular restaurant. Even more rare is when I receive multiple recommendations from different people for one specific spot. When that happens, I have no other option but to check it out. This was exactly the case with my newest GoodEats venture. I was recommended by two of my friends to go try Shoyou Sushi in Federal Hill. If it weren’t for these recommendations I would have never discovered this hidden gem. Situated right on Light Street Shoyou Sushi is tiny, so keep an eye out for it. Once inside you realize how little the sushi house is, with

Taylor Seidel

only four tables and a couple seats at the sushi bar. The owner, Bruce Li, is half the reason my friends had recommended the restaurant. He has a personality as vibrant and interesting as the specialty sushi rolls he creates. Native to South Korea, Li developed his sushi skills in his home country. The sushi is what brought us through the door and did not disappoint. I highly recommend picking one of the specialty rolls as they are all unique and perfectly balanced. I had to go with the Japanese Burrito, which is a wrapped up roll with shrimp tempura, spicy tuna, crab and avocado, served with a spicy dipping sauce. This was unlike anything I have ever had before and trust me, I’ve had my fare share of sushi. The Shoyou Style Baked Lobster Roll was another interesting roll. Imagine a California roll topped with baked lobster meat.

The heavy hitter and personally recommended was The Oriole Park. The roll was quite the mouthful with crab, avocado, asparagus, cream cheese, spicy tuna and crunchy unagi on top for texture. Putting together some unique rolls, a unique owner and a funky little sushi restaurant equals some GoodEats in my book. Next time you’re in Federal Hill, give Shoyou Sushi and Bruce Li a visit. Until next time. I wish you GoodEats!

Courtesy of Taylor Seidel

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FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, BRING THIS AD TO THE TOWERLIGHT OFFICE, UU 309 ON MONDAY, DECEMBER 1 AT 12:00PM

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Passes and prizes are available while supplies last. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. One admit-two pass per person. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis and not guaranteed. Employees of all promotional partners and Towson University are not eligible.

MTV visits TU CHRISTINE LAFRANCESCA Staff Writer

Canadian natives Duncan Penn and Dave Lingwood have struck up a monumental following in the U.S with their MTV series, “The Buried Life.” Along with co-stars Ben Nemtin and Jonnie Penn, the four friends set out to inspire the world through conquering an elaborate 100item long bucket list, but not without taking a detour through Towon’s West Village Commons Ballroom last Thursday night. Junior and Campus Activities Board event programmer Tiana Pluck was responsible for organizing the event and decided to bring The Buried Life members to Towson because of their charisma and natural love of life. “I thought it would be so great to have an inspirational message on campus. Something with people who are young and popular. Something to show that we’re young but, we aren’t powerless,” Pluck said. “The Buried Life” title, derived from a Matthew Arnold poem, is symbolic of the times where each cast member felt stuck or fed up with the hand life had dealt them. In an effort to change their life direction they created a bucket list, and while each person had plenty to add, they decided to narrow it down to 100 items. “We had a meeting and if someone was really passionate about one of the personal goals then it made it on the list but, for the most part we just thought about amazing things we’d want to do. About 80 percent of the list items were collective but the other 20 percent were very specific to one person,” co-reality star Lingwood said. Since taking this unconventional approach on life, “The Buried Life” cast has run into legal trouble, as some list items were more difficult to complete than others. “One time Ben dressed up as a U.S postal worker and tried to deliver a package to Conan O’Brien. It was a snuggie with a note attached asking him if we could tell a joke on Late Night and he almost got a federal charge and kicked out of the country. But, he did get a lifetime ban from Universal Studios,” Lingwood said. Relishing life and living every moment as if it was your last is only a part of the shows desired message. Throughout each episode, the four friends help another person with something on their bucket list.

“I think it’s just an incredible thing to be able to enter into someone’s life and in a very quick way and learn about their passions, their desires and whatever it might be that builds up to a goal they want to achieve,” Lingwood said. “To be able to hop in and dive in deep with them right away and have them be open enough with you to bring you into their biggest goal is a connective and incredible feeling.” As Lingwood and Penn began to wind down their presentation, the importance of vocalizing and editing their bucket list became apparent. “We often tell people who have bucket lists to tell everyone they can about it. People often come forward and help you and, they won’t do that if they don’t know what you’re trying to do,” Penn said. “The list is more symbolic of the things you want to do before you die. If you don’t want to do something anymore, take it off the list. Don’t do things for the sake of doing them. We’re always changing, the list evolves with us.” The Buried life series was canceled in late 2010, but that hasn’t stopped the cast from actively trying to help people achieve their goals as well as write a book, “The Buried Life: What Do You Want to Do Before You Die?” “With ‘The Buried Life’ as you know it, the MTV show, is done, we don’t want to try to do the same kind of things again. We’re getting more list item submissions than ever. We want to try to keep in touch with our community by helping them complete the things they want to get done,” Lingwood said. Released in March 2012, the book quickly rose to No. 1 on the New York Times Bestseller list. “Well it was one of the very first things on the list was to write a book. We wanted to involve our community. We picked seven of our favorite artists to illustrate tweets and Facebook posts that we’ve gotten from our fans. It was a big thing for us to collaborate with these artists,” Lingwood said. The Buried Life cast has fulfilled some of their seemingly impossible desires by endlessly chasing what they want and they hope to inspire Towson students to do the same. “Live every day to it’s fullest. Nothing is as serious as it seems,” Penn said. “Starting a bucket list can be intimidating but, you just need to start it. Take one step in that direction. It’ll start the moment. The trick is just to start it and write it down, then vocalize it.”

Arts&Life

Novemeber 25, 2014

Dance of ‘legends’ RACHEL WALTEMEYER Contributing Writer

Photos by Sarah Hugel/ The Towerlight

Towson University Dance Company put on their fall performance “Legends” last week in Stephens Hall Theater.

Courtesy of Sydney Adamson

Kaitlyn McKay Columnist

Arts&Life

Novemeber 25, 2014

Taylor Seidel

Courtesy of Taylor Seidel

INVITES YOU TO A SPECIAL ONE NIGHT ONLY BIG SCREEN EVENT

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, BRING THIS AD TO THE TOWERLIGHT OFFICE, UU 309 ON MONDAY, DECEMBER 1 AT 12:00PM

TWO WINNERS WILL RECEIVE A PASS (ADMITS 2) TO A SPECIAL ONE NIGHT ONLY BIG SCREEN EVENT

ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN

WONDERLAND MUST PRESENT VALID STUDENT I.D.!

MTV visits TU CHRISTINE LAFRANCESCA Staff Writer

November 25, 2014

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ENROLL NOW! Think alcohol does not affect your GPA? THINK AGAIN!

4.21 DRINKS

6.03 DRINKS

7.76 DRINKS

Average Number of Drinks per Week by GPA

9.97 DRINKS

D/F

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November 25, 2014

Winter Sports Preview

November 25, 2014

GYMNASTICS

Lutz and Ross lead Towson into a new season KATI DAY Staff Writer

Towson is busy preparing for its season opener on Jan. 9 at Missouri with Kent State. The Tigers got off to a shaky start last season, falling behind in its first two meets and placing second at its season opener against Pittsburgh and fourth at North Carolina State. But the tables turned when the Tigers won their inaugural home meet in the SECU Arena against West Chester, Southern Connecticut State and Centenary. Current seniors Lauren Ross and Samantha Lutz placed first and second in the all-around competition helping launch the Tigers to victory. The team continued to struggle through the season until they faced North Carolina and beat the Tar Heels by a narrow margin of .05 points. Senior Lauren Ross claimed first in the all-around competition for the

second time, with a career high score of 38.70. In March, Ross was named Scholar-Athlete of the Year by the East Atlantic Gymnastics League. Head Coach Vicki Chliszczyk said she is optimistic about the upcoming season. The team has been hard at work since September. The Tigers amped up their weekly workouts with a boot camp routine consisting of chin ups, push ups, a mile run, athlete-based yoga and spin class. The team also continues with its daily practice schedule and working with their athletic trainer. “We came back and we were just so much stronger,” Chliszczyk said. “Any injuries from last year are done and over with. We will always have little injuries, but that’s just the nature of the sport.” The Tigers have set the bar even higher this year, competing against teams from all over the country. “Just looking at this season there are a couple things we’re looking forward

to,” Chliszczyk said. “Our competition schedule is just fantastic this year. We’re competing against teams in six different conferences, and traveling to some places we’ve never been before. We’re excited to see new teams and see how we match up against them, because it will push us to be better.” The Tigers will compete in Texas, New Hampshire, Virginia and Rhode Island this season. Chliszcsyk said her team is striving toward its goals and plans to succeed in their two strongest events, beam and floor exercise. “We’re building off of what we did last year,” Coach Chliszczyk said. “We’re taking that competitive experience that some of the girls got into this year so that were able to continue moving forward.” The Tigers will compete in their first home competition of the season on Jan. 25 in a quad meet against the College of William & Mary, West Chester and North Carolina.

Think alcohol does not affect your GPA? THINK AGAIN!

4.21 DRINKS

6.03 DRINKS

File photo by Sarah Hugel/ The Towerlight

Sophomore Bailey Gallagher is one of eight underclassmen on this year’s team. Towson will begin its season Jan. 9 in Missouri.

7.76 DRINKS

Average Number of Drinks per Week by GPA

9.97 DRINKS

D/F

Winter Sports Preview

November 25, 2014

SWIMMING & DIVING

Four McGlynn Men’s Basketball

File photo by Symone Garvett/ The Towerlight

Towson men and women have started a combined 12-1 this season, continuing last year’s success. TYLER YOUNG Staff Writer @_TyYoung

Expectations will be as high as ever for the swimming and diving teams in Head Coach Pat Mead’s 17th season at the helm for the Tigers. The women are coming off of a 2013-14 season in which they went 13-1 in meets, won their sixth Colonial Athletic Association title in the past seven years and Mead took home his seventh CAA Women’s Coach of the Year Award. With a record of 7-0 at the moment, it seems the women’s team will be just as much of a threat this year. However, as talented as the Tigers are, Mead said he still believes there is work to be done. “You look at our dual meets and people say, ‘We are going to win another championship,’” Mead said. “We might, but we need more women to step up and put themselves in a scoring position.” Towson returns six seniors from last year’s championship side, led by senior swimmers Amanda Barber and Victoria Oslund. Barber is a part of a few Towson records, including the 200-yard freestyle relay, and 200-yard medley relay. Oslund is also a part of the 200-yard medley and 400-yard medley teams. In addition, she is the defending CAA champion in the 100-yard butterfly, an event in which she holds the all-time school

record of 53.57. Junior Jenna Van Camp teamed with Oslund, Barber and thensenior Courtney Sepich to set the record in the 200-yard and 400-yard medley relays last season. She also claimed the school record in the 200-yard breaststroke for herself, taking first-place in the conference in that event. She came in second in the CAA in the 100-yard breaststroke. Returning from an impressive freshman season is Macey Arnold. She came in fifth in both the 200yard and 1,650-yard freestyle events at the conference championships. The freshman class has already shown its worth, especially Kendall Krumenacker, who etched her name into the Towson record books with the fastest women’s 200-yard backstroke in school history over the weekend at Bucknell. The men are entering the 201415 season following a winning campaign for the first time since 2006-07. They went 11-2 last year and now feature a deep team from which Mead sees potential. “We have not had a guy in the NCAA’s since 2004,” Mead said. “There are a few guys we have who can do it this year.” Senior Matt Lowe is the defending CAA champion in the 1,650yard freestyle, an event in which he holds the school record. Also defending his conference crown will be senior Jon Burr in the 500-yard freestyle. He holds the

school record in the 400-yard individual medley and finished third in the CAA in the 1,650-yard freestyle last year. The Tigers have another CAA champ in junior Matt McKenney. He won the 200-yard butterfly, setting a school record in the process, and also took second in the 500yard freestyle. Sophomores Nick Breschi and Jeremy Liu each set freshman records last year. Breschi broke the 100-yard and 500-yard freestyle marks, finishing third in the conference in the 500-yard. Liu holds the freshman title in the 100-yard and 200-yard breaststroke. The men are 5-1 at this point in the season. However, Mead said he thinks that the team cannot be satisfied with what they have accomplished thus far. “What teams do in the next two months is critical,” Mead said. “Sometimes, teams become complacent. We need to look at the paper and say, ‘This is what we need to do to get better.’ If [the men] want to finish in the top three in the conference, they need to do better.” Overall, Mead’s goal is to be successful in the conference championship at the end of the season, rather than individual glory. “We have guy captains and girl captains,” Mead said. “But we need 18 people on our conference team no matter the title. We are looking for everyone to have a voice.”

The junior guard scored 27 points off of five 3-pointers in Towson’s 79-75, overtime win over Monmouth on Sunday. He’s the team’s leading scoring so far this season, averaging 14.2 points per game for the 4-1 Tigers.

Winter Sports Preview

November 25, 2014

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Towson at 4-1 and looking to continue success JONATHAN MUNSHAW Editor-in-Chief @Jon_Munshaw

A year after falling short in the Colonial Athletic Association tournament, the men’s basketball team has jumped out to a hot start this season, starting the year with an overall record of 4-1. The Tigers’ only loss this season came when they opened the season against Alabama on the road. After the loss, Towson defeated Morgan State, 51-46, and went on the road over the weekend, defeating Central Connecticut State and Bethune-Cookman at a neutral site in New Jersey as part of the College Basketball Expereince Hall of Fame Classic. They wrapped up the weekend by taking down Monmouth in overtime as part of the CBE Classic. Unfortunately for students, they’ll see little of the team before the start of winter break. They face Goucher on Wednesday, during Thanksgiving break, at home, and their only other game before winter break is on Dec. 3 versus Coppin State. However, Head Coach Pat Skerry

“There better be students here, we’ve got a lot of in-state students,” he said. “What better thing to do over break than that? We’ve got a great product and a great arena.” Junior guard Four McGlynn currently leads the team in scoring with 14.2 points per game. McGlynn has led the Tigers in scouring in four out of their first five games and went off

for 27 points against Monmouth. “I think we have a lot of weapons, but [McGlynn’s] clearly playing very well, and we need him to play well,” Skerry said. “He’s taking care of the ball well, and he’s gotten much better off the dribble, he’s strengthened his body. Pound for pound, he might be the strongest guy we have.” Towson’s success so far has relied on their depth. No one player has played more than 30 minutes a game, and six are playing over 20 minutes. Against the Monmouth Hawks, sophomore forward John Davis scored 22 points off the bench on 7-for-11 shooting, and graduate forward Alex Gavrilovic added on eight points in 23 minutes. Skerry said this team is the deepest group he’s worked with in his time at Towson. “The good thing about being deep is if you have foul trouble or someone gets nicked up they can easily step up,” he said. Towson has also been stellar at getting to the free-throw line. As of Monday afternoon, it is fourth in free-throw attempts in the NCAA and is fifth in free-throw makes.

Junior forward Timajh Parker-Rivera has started every games this season and is averaging 4.6 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.

Junior guard Dominique Johnson, who averaged 10.3 points and 3.6 assists per game last season, is now running the offense in McTiller’s absence. “Last year was no secret, we struggled here and there to finish a ballgame,” Johnson said. “But this year, there’s more chemistry that our fans, friends, family and each other will enjoy. Our depth on this team is unimaginable. We have one or even multiple players

in every position that can come in and make a tremendous impact.” Starting at the other guard position is senior Markell Smith, who averaged 5.8 rebounds last season. The 6-foot-1 guard will have a bigger role this season, as her and Johnson will bring experience to Towson’s backcourt. Down low, the Tigers no longer have Nyree Williams, who averaged 7.3 rebounds per game last season.

However, redshirt senior forward LaTorri Hines-Allen returns and brings a strong presence for the Tigers in the paint. Hines-Allen led the team last season with 8.4 rebounds per game and was second on the team with 14.1 points per game. Senior forward Camille Alberson slides into a starting role for Towson and provides a 3-point shot for the team.

said he hopes to still see students at the games in SECU Arena over winter break.

“

There better be students here, we’ve got a lot of in-state students. What better thing to do over break than that? We’ve got a great product and a great arena. PAT SKERRT Head Coach

File photo by Abby Murphy/ The Towerlight

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

TYLER BEARD Staff Writer @tylerbeard2

A 70-64 loss to the College of Charleston Cougars last season marked a beginning and an end for Towson. It was the beginning of Head Coach Niki Reid Geckeler’s coaching career at Towson, as she finished up her first season as the team’s coach. However, it was the end of guard Tanisha McTiller’s collegiate career, as she finished her season with an average of 19.4 points per game. McTiller was the leader of the 20132014 Tigers and she was the Colonial Athletic Association’s leading scorer last season. How exactly do you fill the void of a player of this caliber? By having multiple players take on McTiller’s role and bringing in seven new faces to the team.

“

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We have a lot of newcomers along with veterans. That will be our happy medium this year. We will be able to help one another and produce so we can beat the odds. We will be special DOMINIQUE JOHNSON this year. Junior guard

Geckeler has brought in seven new players to help out her returning squad, including freshman guard Breonn Hughey. The D.C. native was ranked as the 24th best guard in the 2014 recruiting class by Hoopgurlz and fills out the starting five for the Tigers. The team has a lot of depth on the bench, including redshirt freshman forward Jordyn Smith, who missed all of last season due to injury. It’s a season full of new faces for the Tigers, but Geckeler’s young team is looking to make in impact in the CAA. “We have a lot of newcomers along with veterans,” Johnson said. “That will be our happy medium this year. We will be able to help one another and produce so we can beat the odds. We will be special this year.” Geckeler could not be reached for comment.

Winter Sports Preview

November 25, 2014

GYMNASTICS

Lutz and Ross lead Towson into a new season KATI DAY Staff Writer

Think alcohol does not affect your GPA? THINK AGAIN!

4.21 DRINKS

6.03 DRINKS

File photo by Sarah Hugel/ The Towerlight

Sophomore Bailey Gallagher is one of eight underclassmen on this year’s team. Towson will begin its season Jan. 9 in Missouri.

7.76 DRINKS

Average Number of Drinks per Week by GPA

9.97 DRINKS

D/F

Winter Sports Preview

November 25, 2014

SWIMMING & DIVING

Four McGlynn Men’s Basketball

File photo by Symone Garvett/ The Towerlight

Towson men and women have started a combined 12-1 this season, continuing last year’s success. TYLER YOUNG Staff Writer @_TyYoung

Winter Sports Preview

November 25, 2014

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Towson at 4-1 and looking to continue success JONATHAN MUNSHAW Editor-in-Chief @Jon_Munshaw

Junior forward Timajh Parker-Rivera has started every games this season and is averaging 4.6 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.

said he hopes to still see students at the games in SECU Arena over winter break.

“

There better be students here, we’ve got a lot of in-state students. What better thing to do over break than that? We’ve got a great product and a great arena. PAT SKERRT Head Coach

File photo by Abby Murphy/ The Towerlight

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

TYLER BEARD Staff Writer @tylerbeard2

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”

Winter Sports Preview

November 25, 2014

GYMNASTICS

Lutz and Ross lead Towson into a new season KATI DAY Staff Writer

Think alcohol does not affect your GPA? THINK AGAIN!

4.21 DRINKS

6.03 DRINKS

File photo by Sarah Hugel/ The Towerlight

Sophomore Bailey Gallagher is one of eight underclassmen on this year’s team. Towson will begin its season Jan. 9 in Missouri.

7.76 DRINKS

Average Number of Drinks per Week by GPA

9.97 DRINKS

D/F

Winter Sports Preview

November 25, 2014

SWIMMING & DIVING

Four McGlynn Men’s Basketball

File photo by Symone Garvett/ The Towerlight

Towson men and women have started a combined 12-1 this season, continuing last year’s success. TYLER YOUNG Staff Writer @_TyYoung

Winter Sports Preview

November 25, 2014

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Towson at 4-1 and looking to continue success JONATHAN MUNSHAW Editor-in-Chief @Jon_Munshaw

Junior forward Timajh Parker-Rivera has started every games this season and is averaging 4.6 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.

said he hopes to still see students at the games in SECU Arena over winter break.

“

There better be students here, we’ve got a lot of in-state students. What better thing to do over break than that? We’ve got a great product and a great arena. PAT SKERRT Head Coach

File photo by Abby Murphy/ The Towerlight

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

TYLER BEARD Staff Writer @tylerbeard2

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