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ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF EDITORIAL FREEDOM Thursday, December 3, 2015

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ADMINISTRATION

Schlissel to officially commence AD search

MARINA ROSS/Daily

Washtenaw Community College sophomore Casey Paige lights a candle at the vigil held by Students for Choice for the victims of the Colorado Springs Planned Parenthood shooting on Wednesday.

Diag vigil honors Planned Parenthood shooting victims Almost 60 students gather on Diag to rally behind the organization By CAITLIN REEDY Daily Staff Reporter

After a gunman opened fire in the parking lot outside of a

Colorado Springs Planned Parenthood on Nov. 27, killing three people, students gathered on the Diag on Wednesday night to hold a vigil in memory of the victims. LSA senior Miriam Dow, copresident of the University chapter of Students for Choice, said the news of the attack was jarring, but not entirely surprising. Law enforcement officials believe the shooter’s anti-abortion views lead him to target the Planned Parenthood clinic. Some

politicians and activists have argued the violence was spurred by the tone of anti-abortion rhetoric, particularly in light of the release of videos purporting to show a representative from Planned Parenthood negotiating the sale of fetal tissue, which Planned Parenthood President Cecile Richards has denied. “It’s finally happened; the huge act of violence that we were expecting with all of this hate rhetoric being thrown around,”

she said. “It’s horrible to think that somebody would go to that extreme.” Nearly 60 people attended Wednesday’s vigil, which was also designed to stand in solidarity with the employees and patients of Planned Parenthood, as well as in support of women’s reproductive rights, which attendees said Planned Parenthood aims to protect. Renee Chelian, the founder of See VIGIL, Page 3A

‘U’ has contracted outside search firm, appointed selection committee By LEV FACHER Managing Editor

Michigan interim Athletic Director Jim Hackett describes his tenure at the University as a love story — one that begins with a phone call. This love story, however, is coming to an end. Wednesday, Hackett and University President Mark Schlissel outlined the ongoing search for someone to fill the position on a permanent basis in a teleconference with reporters. Hackett inherited the position from Dave Brandon, who resigned on Oct. 31, 2014 amid a storm of controversy surrounding Michigan quarterback Shane Morris’ mishandled concussion, increasing student ticket prices and reports of e-mails to dis-

FOOTBALL

GOVERNMENT

Maryland hires ‘M’ coordinator as head coach D.J. Durkin led resurgence for Wolverines’ stellar defense in 2015 By JAKE LOURIM

Managing Sports Editor

The leader of the Michigan football team’s vaunted defense is changing schools. Maryland announced Wednesday that Michigan defensive coordinator D.J. Durkin will become its 36th head football coach, and will be officially introduced Thursday morning. The news was first reported by Sports Illustrated. Rumors that Durkin would leave for College Park began as early as last week. Yahoo! Sports reported Nov. 25 that he had already interviewed for the job, though Durkin would not comment on those rumors during his press conference later that day. The Terrapins fired coach Randy Edsall on Oct. 11, eight days after losing to Michigan, 28-0. Maryland finished 2-10 this season (0-8 in the Big Ten).

Durkin helped lead the Wolverines’ resurgence this season, coaching a defense that finished fourth in the country in total yards allowed and 17th in points allowed. For a good part of the season, however, Michigan was ranked No. 1 in both categories. A streak of three straight shutouts in the first half of the year vaulted the unit to the top of the rankings before a slump in November knocked the Wolverines down a few spots. Michigan gave up 41 points in a doubleovertime win at Indiana on Nov. 14 and 42 more in a loss to Ohio State on Saturday. Durkin has just over a month of head coaching experience. He served as defensive coordinator at Florida for the 2014 season, and the Gators fired head coach Will Muschamp at the end of the season. Durkin led the team during its bowl practices and in a 28-20 win over East Carolina in the Birmingham Bowl before accepting the defensive coordinator job at Michigan. Durkin will return to Ann Arbor on Nov. 5, 2016, when Maryland plays the Wolverines at Michigan Stadium.

gruntled fans deemed by many to be inappropriate, among other factors. “It began with President Schlissel calling and asking if I could help,” Hackett said. “I have another friend in business who said sometimes you do things for God and country. I love the University, and I felt compelled to come and help.” Hackett and Schlissel had discussed taking steps toward finding an athletic director earlier in the year, but decided it was best to wait until the end of the Michigan football team’s regular season. With the regular season over, the search is ongoing, and will be facilitated by a committee chaired by Schlissel. The six members of the committee are Liz Barry, Schlissel’s special counsel; Michigan softball coach Carol Hutchins; women’s soccer player Corinne Harris; Kevin Hegarty, the University’s chief financial officer; faculty athletic representative Anne Curzan; and Dr. Stefan G. Humphries, a forSee SEARCH, Page 3A

Plan calls on Mich. to bolster higher ed. Faculty, students contribute to report on increasing advanced degrees By LYDIA MURRAY Daily Staff Reporter

SINDUJA KILARU/Daily

Panelist Arshan Ahmad speaks at the Ask a Muslim event at Munger Graduate residence on Wednesday.

Panelists discuss Muslim faith, public perceptions Students aim to address portrayal of Islam after ISIS attacks in Paris By CAMY METWALLY Daily Staff Reporter

About 50 graduate students gathered in Munger Graduate Residences on Wednesday evening to listen to three Mus-

lim University students discuss their faith and experiences after the series of terrorist attacks in Paris carried out by ISIS. Attendees gathered to learn more about the panelists’ beliefs and perceptions of the Muslim religion. Public Health student Ojaswi Adhikari explained the importance of these kind of events in promoting understanding and awareness. She said many people hesitate to ask certain questions out of fear of offending their peers.

“I hope that people are able to ask whatever they want to ask and have an open space where they don’t feel as judged,” Adhikari said. “It’s important to open up that dialogue and to feel free to say whatever you want to because you’re not going to have a platform like this outside of here.” Many students attended with the intention to learn more about Islam in general. Public Health student Erica Dancik said she See PANEL, Page 3A

With the help of University students and faculty, a group of state legislators released a set of recommendations on Tuesday aiming to increase the number of Michigan residents with post-secondary degrees over the next 10 years. The report, titled Reaching for Opportunity, was compiled by several Michigan colleges including the University, as well as bipartisan group of legislative leaders and various other organizations. The recommendations outline paths to increasing the percentage of Michigan individuals pursue higher education and obtain associate degrees, technical certificates or any other advanced degree. See REPORT, Page 3A

the b-side A look at The Moxies

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INDEX

NEWS......................... 2A OPINION.....................4A SPORTS......................5A

SUDOKU.....................2A CL ASSIFIEDS...............6A B-SIDE ....................1B

News

2A — Thursday, December 3, 2015

MONDAY: This Week in History

TUESDAY: Campus Voices

WEDNESDAY: In Other Ivory Towers

The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com

THURSDAY: Twitter Talk

FRIDAY: Photos of the Week

ANALYZING IN THE ARB Alyssa Setting tweeted from the Michigan Students account while at the airport heading home.

“I love seeing people in @UMich apparel no matter where I am in the world. #WhereverYouGo #GoBlue” —@UMichstudents

Each week, “Twitter Talk” is a forum to print tweets that are fun, informative, breaking or newsworthy, with an angle on the University, Ann Arbor and the state. All tweets have been edited for accurate spelling and grammar.

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LSA senior Amanda Salvi and LSA sophomore Neha Srinivasan study for their Woody Plants: Biology and Identification exam in the Arb on Wednesday.

The University’s second annual Giving BlueDay raised more than $4 million in funds.

“#GivingBlueDay is officially over, and we met our new $100,000 fundraising goal. Thank you to our incredible donors.” — @umichband

“

Gov. Rick Snyder (R) commented on Wednesday’s shooting at a community center in California.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and the first responders in San Bernadino.” - @onetoughnerd

THREE THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW TODAY

CAMPUS EVENTS & NOTES

Hayes lecture

Panel discussion Flute trio

WHAT: Part of the lecture series by the Eisenberg Institute for Historical Studies, Patricia Hayes will focus on the the colonization and taxation of Namibia post-WWI. WHO: History Department WHEN: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. WHERE: Tisch Hall, Room 1014

WHAT: Joseph Cialdella, Edie Disler and John Ramsburgh will speak about writing for and working in the public sphere. WHO: English Department WHEN: 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. WHERE: Angell HallRoom 3222

WHAT: Iridescent Flutes, a trio of classically trained flutists, will perform at the University Hospital. WHO: Gifts of Art WHEN: 12:10 p.m. to 1 p.m. WHERE: University Hospital, First Floor

Karen Finley lecture WHAT: Writer Karen Finley will present her work, Written in Sand, which includes performance pieces and writings on AIDS. WHO: Stamps School WHEN: 5:10 p.m. to 6 p.m. WHERE: Michigan Theater

Seminar on fish diversity

Felicia Andrews talk

Women’s basketball

Michigan dance crew

WHAT: Dr. Holly Kindsvater, assistant professor at Rutgers University, will lecture on fish species. WHO: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology WHEN: 4:10 p.m. to 5 p.m. WHERE: Chemistry Building, Room 1210

WHAT: Detroit native Felicia Andrews will lecture Public Policy students about her experience with international policy. WHO: International Policy Students Association WHEN: 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. WHERE: Weill Hall

WHAT: The Michigan Women’s Basketball team will be facing the Pittsburgh Panthers. WHO: Michigan Athletics WHEN: 7 p.m. WHERE: Crisler Center

WHAT: Eight student dance crews will compete for the title of Michigan’s Best Dance Crew. WHO: Center for Campus Involvement WHEN: 7 p.m to 9 p.m. WHERE: Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre

Law enforcement responded to an active shooter situation in San Bernardino, California community center, NBC News reported. Local police say the incident resulted in 14 fatalities.

Daily Arts Writers hang with up-and-coming rock band The Moxies, talk to student producer, YOG$, visit Third Man Records and more in a musiccentric edition of The B-Side. >>SEE B-SIDE, PAGE 1B

British lawmakers voted this week to commence airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria, CNN reported. Officials said the actions could include “surveillance or operational missions over Syria.”

By ALYSSA BRANDON Daily Staff Reporter

Last month, many University students opted to let their beards grow for “No-Shave November” — an effort designed to raise awareness and lend support to cancer patients and survivors. Drawing inspiration from this, MRelay — the University’s chapter of the organization Relay for Life, which raises research funding through the American Cancer Society — spearheaded #GrowBlue, a month-long initiative. With the campaign completed, the student organization raised more than more than $117,000 in donations. As part of the initiative,

MRelay members encouraged male students to grow their facial hair and female students to wear blue ribbons and hair extensions in solidarity with cancer patients who lose their hair during treatment. Public Policy senior Rebecca Hart, who serves on MRelay’s senior leadership team, said the campaign was initially conceptualized in 2014 as an offshoot of #NoShaveNovember. Hart said the initial campaign only called for male student participation, but MRelay has since expanded the program to promote female involvement as well. “We had — as a campus — come together, (with) this great community effort, and we got girls involved this year,” she said. “I think that’s the first time that’s been done anywhere, so we’re really proud of that.” LSA junior Kelly O’Donnel, a member of the MRelay senior leadership team, said the team

created #GrowBlue to connect the national movement to the University community. “We created our own hashtags, #GrowBlue and #BePurple, because MRelay’s color is purple,” she said. “We wanted to make it ‘GrowBlue’ to make it specific to the University of Michigan campus, but we also wanted to tie it back to our mission and what we’re really going for.” The MRelay leadership team encouraged students to post pictures of themselves on social media using #GrowBlue to encourage friends and family to make donations to the cause, which would in turn go to the American Cancer Society. O’Donnel said students accrued several hundred tweets after the initiative launched. “We had hundreds of people using these hashtags that we could then search and repost and share people’s stories (and) stories about their friends who have been affected by cancer and their family members, and why they’re doing it,” she said. “It was impactful to see so many people engaged with the campaign.” O’Donnel said it was inspiring to see the Delta Chi fraternity rally in support of a brother and MRelay participant who had recently been diagnosed with cancer. “His entire fraternity rallied around him to get involved,” she said. “I just got a notification today that they’re branding all this apparel that they want the MRelay community to send out to support him. More so than just the fundraising, we’re really about being a community for people, and being that connection to survivors and other people that have been affected.” In addition to planning for their 24-hour campus awareness relay event in April 2016, Hart and O’Donnel said MRelay will host a benefit concert Jan. 25 at the Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre.

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C O U R S E E VA L U AT I O N S

#GrowBlue raises more than $117,000 for cancer research Month-long MRelay initiative puts new spin on “No Shave November” campaign

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LSA sophomore Patrick Mullan-Koufopoulos discusses the wording of the course evaluation release resolution during the LSA Student Government meeting in Mason Hall on Wednesday. >>SEE PAGE 3A

Study links dopamine levels with learning, motivation Signals assist in evaluating benefits, downsides of action By MEGAN DOYLE Daily Staff Reporter

Students can sometimes lose motivation heading into final exams, and the answer as to why may lie with dopamine, according to University researchers. Psychology Prof. Joshua Berke, one of the study’s authors, and Arif Hamid, a neuroscience doctoral student and lead author of the study, point to a link between dopamine, a reward chemical in the brain, and learning and motivation. The study found that dopamine levels in the brain communicate the value of particular tasks. Berke said these value signals then allows people to determine how much effort they should put toward a goal. Those judgements are based on an evaluation of the potential rewards

from completing the task and the consequences of either avoiding the test or failing to complete it successfully. If dopamine levels communicate that a task is worthwhile, the individual will likely feel more motivated to tackle it. “You’re less likely to be distracted because this activity that you’re engaged in is considered to be more worthwhile,” he said. “That is not previously accounted for by our theories of dopamine function, and now it is.” The research was conducted by measuring dopamine levels in rats. The rats were observed while they performed decisionmaking tasks, like choosing a door, then rewarded for choosing the correct door. When the rats had been rewarded, they began to decide faster, indicating increased motivation. They also were more likely to choose the option that had previously rewarded them, showing increased learning. Elevated dopamine levels corresponded with both moti-

vation and learning in the rats. This finding is novel. Previously, researchers considered it counterintuitive that a neurotransmitter such as dopamine could achieve both motivating and learning functions. In other words, dopamine could contribute either to motivation or to learning, but not to both. Though many researchers have attempted to resolve this dynamic, Berke said this new study represents a major stride toward doing just that. “All the theoretical ideas had been about learning, but so much of the observations about how drugs affect people and so forth have really been about motivation and not about learning,” Berke said. Additionally, the team looked at the effect of artificially spiking dopamine levels in rats. They found that this spike also correlated with increased motivation and learning. Hamid said this finding has implications in humans, as See DOPAMINE, Page 3A

News

The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com

REPORT From Page 1A Currently, 46 percent of Michigan’s working population holds a post-secondary degree. Reaching for Opportunity aims to increase the number of postsecondary degree or credential holders to 60 percent by 2025. Daniel Hurley, chief executive officer of the Michigan Association of State Universities, said the report aims to increase the economic viability of the state to meet the increasing demand for skilled labor. “This is a report that is ultimately about ensuring future economic prosperity in Michigan,” Hurley said. “From the individual citizen standpoint and from a collective statewide standpoint, higher educational levels translate to higher incomes.” Rackham student Jonathan McNaughtan, who helped complete research for the project, said one of the key takeaways from conducting the research was the importance of secondary education. “We know that higher education matters,” he said. “It decreases the poverty rate. Education is associated with being more healthy. Education is associated with being less likely to be laid off, and it’s also obviously associated with higher income.” McNaughtan said the study also found that Michigan has

more progress to make before it becomes a top-performing state when it comes to educational attainment. “It is not impossible, but there is still a lot that needs to be done,” he said. The report lays out several policy recommendations for reaching the 60 percent goal, many of which are rooted in creating an environment in the state that will allow more people to attend post-secondary institutions and complete degrees. Proposals include exposing middle and high school students to post-secondary institutions early on, ensuring high school counselors are adequately prepared to provide college counseling and streamlining financial aid programs. Hurley emphasized the importance of bolstering financial aid, noting that Michigan falls in the bottom 10 states for need-based scholarship funding. “If I had to identify one point as most important, it would be the call for a simplified, consolidated and significantly enhanced need-based financial aid program,” Hurley said. “We are 41st in the country in terms of funding and I think that that initiative alone will greatly help college access.” State Rep. Sam Singh (D–East Lansing), who worked on the report, said it serves as a starting point for further development and collaboration.

“If we are going to be a top state in economic growth then we have to start investing more in our education systems,” he said. “This report was a hope to kind of kick start the conversation and move us into a faster gear for change.” When considering how the recommendations will affect institutions like the University, Singh said the report is an opportunity for cooperation between educational institutions, such as universities, community colleges and K-12 schools. “All these institutions will have to look at how to coordinate better among themselves and also work with their local community colleges and K-12 systems,” Singh said. “It’s an opportunity for us to help shape the upcoming workforce of the state. This report is a roadmap that will connect the higher education institutions and the private sector.” McNaughtan said the report is targeted at the University as well. “I really look at this as a call to action for the University of Michigan,” McNaughtan said. “We are looking at how the University is going to react, and how it will take the already great things that it is doing and use this report to guide those discussions and initiatives.”

DOPAMINE From Page 2A

it explains why ADHD drugs such as Ritalin or Adderall — which are known to increase the brain’s dopamine levels — help people focus better. They affect brain chemistry to create an increase in the seeming value of activities, as well as facilitate quicker learning. “Now we can more closely understand the relationship between how to be motivated to learn,” Hamid said.

LSA Student Government considers course evaluations Resolutions call on faculty to move up timeline for releasing class data By MEGAN DOYLE Daily Staff Reporter

Throughout much of the semester, members of Central Student Government and the University’s Faculty Senate have debated whether students should have access to course evaluation data, as well as how and when a potential release should occur. On Wednesday, LSA Student Government joined the conversation by passing a resolution in support of the online release of student course evaluations. LSA SG treasurer Patrick Mullan-Koufopoulos, an LSA sophomore and co-author of the resolution, said the resolution shows that students want course evaluation data released. The resolution acknowledges the body’s ability to obtain course evaluation data via Freedom of Information Act requests, which members of the assembly say they plan to use if the release of the evaluation results does not occur in a timely fashion. Several representatives moved to strike any mention of FOIA, saying it seemed too aggressive, while others considered the language necessary. “We’re sending the message we’re willing to go to whatever lengths to get the data, rather than work with them,” said LSA senior Jake Dailey, the assembly’s external relations officer. “At this time I feel like we’re just threatening our relationships with the faculty. I would hate to see this turn anyone against us that has previously been an ally.”

Dailey said he does not want faculty to interpret the resolution as a demand. “What we’re instead trying to do is work with them and find the solution that makes the most sense and not just strong-arm them if it doesn’t work out,” Dailey said. The University’s Senate Assembly voted earlier this year to support a delay for the release of course evaluations after University officials expressed interest in their release by the end of the semester. Faculty expressed concerns with the repercussions of releasing the data if students aren’t given the tools to interpret it correctly, as well as criticisms of the current methods used for conducting the evaluations. Currently, a committee led by James Holloway, vice provost for digital and engaged education, will explore potential alternatives for conducting the evaluations and a committee of four faculty and four students is considering the best methods for releasing course evaluation data that will be gathered with the new instrument. That work is expected to wrap up by April, allowing the new instrument to be implemented by the fall. In October, SACUA agree to release course evaluation data in full to academic advisers by January. At Monday’s meeting of SACUA, CSG President Cooper Charlton, an LSA senior, continued to press faculty to move up the timeline for the data’s release. LSA junior Julia Gips, the body’s academic relations officer and a co-author of the resolution, said the faculty initially voted to support a delay in releasing the data and noted that it is the responsibility of LSA SG to take address their constituent’s concerns.

“We’d really like to advocate for students, however we’re not being unreasonable,” Gips said. “I know that the FOIA scares a lot of people.” Gips said currently students can individually employ FOIA to gain access to course evaluation data, and by passing the resolution the assembly would simply look into the process for their constituents. Mullan-Koufopoulos said mentioning FOIA was not a threat to the administration, but rather a show of strength on behalf of LSA SG. Gipps said the evaluations would ideally be released next fall with faculty assistance. “If the faculty end up letting us down again, then we’re going to have to take action,” Gips said. “If the faculty choose to ignore what the students want then the students should do something about it.” “There is some progress being made, but by that same merit they’re stagnated right now,” said LSA junior Joey Hansel. “I do believe that this resolution — while it does come across as a bit harsh with the FOIA — does tell faculty that not only is Central Student Government interested in this, not only is Rackham Student Government interested in this, but the third-largest student government on this campus is also strongly interested in getting this going.” Ultimately, the lines regarding the FOIA were preserved and the resolution passed with 16 for, three against and three abstentions. A resolution was also brought to the floor at Wednesday’s meeting in support of a joint student-faculty task force to improve the instrument employed to conduct teaching evaluation.

Thursday, December 3, 2015— 3A

RUBY WALLAU/Daily

Jim Hackett, the University’s interim Athletic Director, is introduced at a news conference on Oct. 31, 2014.

SEARCH From Page 1A mer Michigan football player and the current medical director at Renown Rehabilitation Center in Reno, Nevada. Schlissel, whose experience as provost at Brown University gave him little prior experience in dealing with big-time college athletics, acknowledged the stakes are high. “I have to believe this is the best athletic director position in the county,” Schlissel said. Hackett and Schlissel both stressed the importance of the former’s willingness to continue on an interim basis indefinitely. They said this will prevent the job process from becoming rushed and allow the University to be confident in its decision when one is eventually reached. Schlissel said community outreach has already begun, and that input from coaches won’t be limited to Hutchins. The University’s last three athletic directors — Hackett, Brandon and Bill Martin, who served from 2001 to 2010 — boasted impres-

PANEL From Page 1A has several Muslim friends and classmates and that she came to the event to understand their experiences on campus. “I hope that people take away a different understanding of their peers and their colleagues and a greater appreciation for different backgrounds and cultures,” Dancik said. However, she acknowledged that while she values such events, attendees are typically the ones who are already open-minded. “You risk attracting people that are already interested in different cultures and backgrounds and beliefs, but I’m not sure that matters,” Dancik said. “It’s still a good thing.” The first question from the audience asked what Islam meant to the panelists. All three agreed the religion is a way of life. “It’s easy to look at religion as a set of repetitive rules and boundaries, but for a lot of us, it’s just a way of living,” Dentistry student Hussain Haider said. “It’s just how I can go through this world with good, moral standards.” Business graduate student Arshan Ahmad said the word Islam literally means submission through peace. He explained that the religion is built on the foundation of peace. “That’s what the religion is about,” Ahmad said. “It’s about peace, and it’s about love.” After discussing the five pillars of Islam and religious practices

VIGL From Page 1A the Northland Family Planning Centers — a women’s health clinic that also provides abortions — was one of two speakers to address the vigil. She stressed the dangers of allowing an environment in which health care providers and Planned Parenthood patients feel threatened or unsafe. “Clinics shouldn’t be fortresses,” she said. LSA junior David Schafer, who attended the rally, said he hoped to demonstrate the power of strength in numbers. “Powerful messages need to

sive corporate résumés prior to running the Athletic Department. Schlissel, however, said candidates will not necessarily be limited to those who come directly from the business world. “I’m looking for the best person for the job,” Schlissel said. “It is a $151-million enterprise. It’s a complex enterprise that requires somebody with business accounting and leadership skills and experience.” Experience in athletics and an understanding of how college athletic departments function is another obvious criterion, Schlissel said. “The bottom line is we’re going to hire a spectacular person,” he said. Hiring a “Michigan Man” — a term Hackett said he wanted to do away with at his introductory press conference — is also not a necessity, according to Schlissel. “I wouldn’t limit us to only looking at people who have had Michigan stories or connections,” Schlissel said. He acknowledged, however, that those with University ties will have an advantage in the selection process. Hackett’s 13 months at the helm

have proved favorable for Michigan fans. His most noteworthy accomplishments include signing Michigan football coach Jim Harbaugh to a seven-year contract in Dec. 2014, agreeing to terms on a $169 million apparel contract with Nike in July 2015 and penning an open letter to Michigan football fans in the wake of the Wolverines’ last-second loss to Michigan State on Oct. 17. Harbaugh, of course, has been a smash hit with Michigan fans. After a 5-7 finish in 2014, the Wolverines finished the 2015 regular season with a 9-3 record and are currently awaiting an invitation to a bowl game. “There was clearly a hue and cry for our candidate that we got,” Hackett said of Harbaugh’s hiring and the football program’s subsequent turnaround. “After I look back at all that after a year, what I’m kind of mesmerized by is the amount of work Jim got done in a short amount of time, from hiring a staff to transitioning a fifth-year quarterback to putting together a very competitive team.”

associated with the faith, audience members began asking questions centered around the current climate surrounding the religion in society and the media. Another audience member asked what could be done to steer people away from media that promotes xenophobic views. Haider encouraged the use of social media for exposure to all perspectives. “If you have a Twitter or a Facebook, go and diversify your following,” Haider said. “Because then you’ll get everyone’s opinion. It’s a great way to get the feel for what people of different backgrounds are feeling when these events happen.” Another attendee asked about the Muslim reactions in the media after the Paris attacks, inquiring if there was a general lack of response. Ahmad acknowledged that efforts have been made to condemn the attacks and respond to the stereotypes and misconceptions, but said it is not shown in the media as often. “I have a friend who’s a lawyer … he goes on the news to refute some ideas and things, but the topic of conversation always changes to try and humiliate him,” Ahmad said. “We believe that a lot is being done, just no one is listening.” Rackham student Zehra Siddiqui said the beliefs of extremist groups are different than those of the vast majority of Muslims. She claimed that Muslims are also victims of terrorist attacks, and see the extremists as enemies. “You can see that a lot of Mus-

lims were fighting the Taliban and Islamic State, from the Kurds to the Sunni tribesmen who were displaced and hurt by them,” Siddiqui said. “A lot of Muslims have been killed by the Islamic State and Taliban. They have an end goal and a way of thinking that they are trying to justify, and they’re using Islam to do it.” While the event fostered dialogue and discussion, Ahmad encouraged attendees to take action and share what they learned at the event. Business graduate student MacCalvin Romain said he valued this event as an opportunity to help combat negative misconceptions about Muslims. “I can make sure to disseminate a lot of the information that we gained today and help educate people, and make sure they feel as comfortable as possible having these conversations and initiating them with people we have around us day-to-day,” Romain said. Siddiqui stressed the importance of interacting with Muslim peers to strengthen understanding and cross-cultural relationships. She said this will help reduce negative perceptions and stereotypes. “Give Muslims a chance, get to know them and how they live their life,” Siddiqui said. “They are Wolverine fans. They are Spartan fans. There are people who wear headscarves, and there are people who don’t wear headscarves. You can see a wide range of people, but get to know us as people because that’s what we are.”

be sent to people to say this can’t happen anymore,” Schafer said. “I think college students are a powerful vehicle through which that message can be spread.” LSA freshman Rene Diaz said college students have a significant platform with which to demonstrate their support of Planned Parenthood and what it stands for. “This school is really amazing at showing that we care and I think this act (of violence) shows people that this isn’t OK and not welcome in our college and in our town,” Diaz said. LSA freshman Joy Boakye pointed to what he sees as a common trend in U.S. culture. “Shootings have become such a part of our culture that I feel like

people are seeing this more as a shooting than seeing the issue behind it,” Boakye said. “I was numb because I’m so used to hearing about shootings. It’s sad that this is the normal for my generation.” LSA senior Connie Gao, co-president of SFC, said she was appreciative for the support displayed at the rally. Gao said the organization will now work on determining their next steps in responding to last week’s violent shooting. “I know without a doubt that we will continue to educate students and put on amazing events,” Gao said. “It’s hard not to get burned out when terrible things happen, but it’s our responsibility to do something.”

Opinion

4A — Thursday, December 3, 2015

Edited and managed by students at the University of Michigan since 1890. 420 Maynard St. Ann Arbor, MI 48109 tothedaily@michigandaily.com JENNIFER CALFAS EDITOR IN CHIEF

AARICA MARSH and DEREK WOLFE EDITORIAL PAGE EDITORS

LEV FACHER MANAGING EDITOR

Unsigned editorials reflect the official position of the Daily’s editorial board. All other signed articles and illustrations represent solely the views of their authors.

The label of non-labels

he first time I went on a date with a girl was during the summer of 2014. I prefaced our date with something like, “Soo, I’ve only been into guys for literally my entire life, but recently I’ve been feeling like I need to ‘explore my sexuality’ or whatever — please help a girl out.” She agreed to meet me later that week. We found each other in the Arb, RACHAEL awkward bottles of bright red “Smartwater” in hand, LACEY and sat down to get to know each other. For me, it immediately didn’t feel right. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t imagine her as anything more than a friend. After she nervously smoked half a pack of cigarettes in front of me and asked where she could buy $500 worth of weed, I decided it just wasn’t going to work. I went home feeling slightly uncomfortable, and we never talked again. I thought, “Yep, I guess I’m straight,” and moved on with my life, content that I had at least tried. I spent the next year never thinking twice about that day. But over time, it swam back into my consciousness, and that tiny doubt — that tiny desire — was all that I could think about. I spoke to some of my friends about it, letting them in on my little secret. That I was even considering this other side of me had to mean something, right? But I was also confused, because don’t people just know these things? Every story I’d heard from non-straight friends was that they had “always known,” or at least had known way before the summer they turned 20. I felt like a fraud, because I hadn’t spent my entire life struggling with selfacceptance, or hiding my true self for years, afraid to tell anyone. I couldn’t understand how something like this could just suddenly happen to me. But I didn’t know who to talk to. The only bisexual women I knew were the brave ones at the Ann Arbor Poetry Slam who wrote poems about feeling invisible. I figured that this was probably the answer: I was bisexual, and for some god-knows-why reason, I was just now figuring it out. The second time I went on a date with a girl was last month. I gave her the same rundown, and she graciously decided to take the “straight girl” out. We met at a coffee shop, and then made our way to \aut\ Bar — a gay bar in Kerrytown. It was fun. We bonded over being from California. I showed off my incredible dance moves. It was the first time I kissed a girl who wasn’t my drunk best friend. It felt natural. But it didn’t feel like this awesome, life-changing experience. It didn’t feel as if all my questions had been answered. There was no “Aha! This is what I’ve been missing!” moment.

Mostly I just felt more confused. Being a writer, the only way for me to sort through my feelings was, naturally, to put them into a poem. I performed in the poetry slam this past weekend, and exclaimed to a room full of strangers that I had finally figured it out: I was bisexual! But as the word lurched from my mouth, it got tangled in my teeth. It felt forced — like a lie. It didn’t feel right. It didn’t feel like me. The next day, almost as if it were coming to me in a dream, a single word bubbled to the surface of my mind: fluid. I knew I had heard of people identifying as “sexually fluid” (and by “people” I mean Miley Cyrus), but I had never actually known what it meant. After some help from Google and an author named Lisa M. Diamond, it was as if all of my questions were finally, finally answered. Diamond, who wrote a book called “Sexual Fluidity: Understanding Women’s Love and Desire,” writes in the first chapter: “Sexual fluidity, quite simply, means situationdependent flexibility in women’s sexual responsiveness. This flexibility makes it possible for some women to experience desires for either men or women under certain circumstances, regardless of their overall sexual orientation … women of all orientations may experience variation in their erotic and affectional feelings as they encounter different situations, relationships, and life stages.” I read these sentences again. And again. A smile stretched across my face. These were the words I had been looking for for more than a year. These were the only words that finally made sense. The book goes on to talk about women who had been married to men for 15 years, then suddenly dated women, and then went back to dating men. It wasn’t a new story, after all. I wasn’t alone. Diamond states that “in general, the degree of fluidity in women appears substantially greater than in men,” but also, “any individual should be capable of experiencing desires that run counter to his or her overall sexual orientation.” So guys out there, feel free to join the club, too. I only read Diamond’s words for the first time earlier this week. I’ve had barely any time to process it, but to me it doesn’t matter, because as soon as I read these words I knew, without looking back, I had found my “Aha! This is what I’ve been missing!” moment. Now, instead of beating myself up about not knowing how to label my sexuality, I’m reveling in the label of non-labels: fluid. I am fluid as fuck. And god, that feels right to say.

I am fluid as fuck. And god, that feels right to say.

— Rachael Lacey can be reached at rachaelk@umich.edu.

Less loaded language

“N

o more baby parts.” (fetuses’) brains and other body parts.” This comment, attributed by Even after Planned Parenthood conclusively a senior law enforcement official discredited these claims, she asserted that to Robert L. Dear Jr. — the “Planned Parenthood will not and cannot deny rage-filled man suspected this because it is happening. It is happening in to have killed three people this nation.” and injured nine others For me, the fact that the words of a madwhile opening fire on a man on a shooting rampage eerily echo lanPlanned Parenthood clinic guage used by anti-abortion politicians on in Colorado Springs last a national stage is too worrisome to ignore, Friday — doesn’t sound all even if authorities have yet to determine the that foreign to me. In fact, gunman’s exact motives. the line could very well be I’ll admit that abortion is a highly sensitive narration from the surreptopic. However, opponents often discuss it titious Planned Parenthood ANNE in extreme rhetoric that advances beyond “sting” videos released this KATZ blind emotion, evoking false imagery that past July by the inaptly depicts the procedure as utterly horrific named Center for Medical and murderous. Terms like “baby parts” Progress, an anti-abortion and “harvesting” inextricably tie the worst group that claimed the footage contained evi- kind of violence imaginable to the medical dence proving Planned Parenthood’s selling of procedure, making abortion dangerously “baby parts” for profit. taboo. Much of the dialogue surrounding the I’ve also heard the topic is not only inaccurate, phrase “baby parts” on the but also unfair to the women presidential campaign trail who will eventually have Opponents often by some of the nation’s most an abortion in her lifetime, discuss abortion in and infuses the issue prominent politicians (and political wannabes). Last extreme rhetoric that with an unnecessary level July, Ted Cruz appealed to of depravity. advances beyond Christian conservatives by To be clear, as provocative demanding that Congress and disturbing as some of the blind emotion. launch an investigation into language used by anti-aborPlanned Parenthood’s “sale tion advocates is, none of it has and transfer of aborted baby called for bloodshed. However, parts.” And just a few months ago, at the end of the historical prevalence of violent, anti-aborSeptember, Carly Fiorina condemned Planned tion actions is undeniable. Attacks on abortion Parenthood because she believes they “harvest providers are far from a new phenomenon. The

The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com

Non-traditional needs

he diversity, equity and inclusion effort initiated by the University is centered around the goal to create an environment where each member of the community can thrive intellectually, personally and professionally. ALEXIS From Nov. 4 to Nov. 13, the FARMER University hosted the Diversity Summit, a series of panels, open forums and lectures that exposed institutional policies and cultural stigmas hindering the University’s mission to achieve this desired environment. Though people representing an array of racial, religious, academic, economic and physical-ability identities shared their experiences, one small community at the University was not accounted for in the conversation: non-traditional students. According to a 2002 study by the National Center for Education Statistics, non-traditional students possess at least one of the following seven characteristics: 1. Delays enrollment (does not enter postsecondary education in the same calendar year that he or she finished high school) 2. Attends part time for at least part of the academic year 3. Works full time (35 hours or more per week) while enrolled 4. Is considered financially independent for purposes of determining eligibility for financial aid 5. Has dependents other than a spouse (usually children, but sometimes others) 6. Is a single parent (either not married or married but separated and has dependents) 7. Does not have a high school diploma (completed high school with a GED or other high school completion certificate or did not finish high school) There’s a continuum from minimally non-traditional to highly non-traditional, depending on how many of the characteristics a student possesses. Educational attainment is an element of diversity. To gain a glimpse of the experiences of non-traditional students and inquire about inclusive efforts for that population on campus, I spoke with Michael Seifert and Justin Villanueva. Seifert, 34 years old, is a senior majoring in political science. Villanueva, 35 years old, is majoring in general studies. Both men are nontraditional undergraduate students at the University. Both had a love for learning, but didn’t quite realize this interest until later in life. Trials to traditions Though both men have achieved their goal of enrolling at the University, attending school has not come without its challenges. Transportation, generational gaps between students, professors and graduate student instructors, and schedule conflicts between work and class are a few of the trials Seifert and Villanueva have had to face. Seifert feels he could have received more institutional support in learning how to navigate the University. He taught himself how to maneuver through campus and Ann Arbor on his own. Though

the financial aid office was helpful M-POD caters to students coming in providing Seifert financial from WCC, the program aims to assistance, he didn’t know where he attract diversity to the University could find other specific resources from various outlets by supporting that would cater to non-traditional or academically and economically transfer students. disadvantaged students. This “I don’t feel there is a structured includes students from non-college support system, because I don’t know preparatory high schools, people where to go,” Seifert said. who have been in the workforce He suggested that a monthly prior to attending postsecondary or semesterly meeting for non- education, students with families, traditional students would help. first-generation students and “I don’t even know who non- students who come from lowtraditional students are. It would income backgrounds. These be nice to have a non-traditional students, though non-traditional, student space or center. I don’t have the academic skills to attend want to be outcast as a second-class the University, and M-POD student.” provides the support to ensure Villanueva feels he has had retention and graduation for their a generous amount of support unique situations. throughout his process. M-POD offers one-on-one “The University has been great counseling to assist in the admissions about grant money,” he said. “I feel process such as navigating the very supported from the faculty. Common Application, bi-monthly Professors will alter their office meetings about topics like financial hours sometimes to meet with aid, student organizations and me in the evening study abroad to accommodate options, and events It’s important that that me and my work encourage schedule.” the administration networking among However, he current and former is inclusive of the suggested that the transfer students. University offer various communities Wylie hopes more evening that exist on campus. transfer students classes and can utilize all schedule familythat M-POD and oriented events to demonstrate that OAMI offer to make the transition the campus is welcoming to various process smoother. student lifestyles. “When students feel more “I would really love it if there comfortable about a university, were a group or organization that they are more likely to apply and had an event where students like maximize their experience,” Wylie myself, with families, could bring said. “We want them to know our partners and kids to U of M. I that OAMI is their home away would love if the University were from home.” to create more avenues for that,” In the context of the University’s Villanueva said. diversity, equity and inclusion Villanueva understands why the efforts, Wylie noted, “There has University may not be focusing its been some consideration for nonefforts on non-traditional students: traditional transfer students, but “I can see (the University) is not there is much, much more that we paying attention to people like can do. Even having a dedicated me because there are not many space. (I believe) they are working students like me … I feel like they on it in LSA. We (OAMI) have the are not trying to attract students space here, and those coming from like myself. (But) there are so WCC know about it and like it.” many talented people that are The University is the home in my situation that would love away from home for many to come to U of M. There are an students, and it’s important that overwhelming amount of students the administration is inclusive who fit my demographic who are of the various communities that going to college, but they are not exist on campus. Existing means going to U of M. They are going of institutional support for nonto the Phoenixes, traditional students should the Easterns, the be promoted more frequently Oaklands and and intentionally. the Walshes of Non-traditional students, the world.” like Seifert and Villanueva, have The University important contributions to make to must consider the University. Creating a gathering increasing efforts space, promoting the accessibility toward places for of institutional support and non-traditional encouraging a culture that accepts students. An increasing amount of and is amenable to differences are young people are attending two- steps the University can take to better year institutions and working include non-traditional students in prior to pursuing enrollment in a our community. Having a support four-year university. The National system is important for all students, Center for Education Statistic especially non-traditional ones. report that 38 percent of the 17.6 “Everything doesn’t happen how million undergraduates enrolled in you expect it. If you are persistent higher education are over the age of and don’t give up, you can still 25, and 25 percent are over the age achieve success no matter what age. of 30. The proportion of all students I did it. I’m 34 and I will graduate over age 25 is projected to increase in December. Don’t let anybody by 23 percent by 2019. discourage you,” Seifert said. Tangible solutions to Similarly, Villanueva concluded increasing inclusivity our interview by stating, “The one Michigan-Pursuing Our Dreams, thing the University should know a program under the Office of about me is that I am willing to Academic Multicultural Initiatives, work just as hard as everyone else. offers the opportunity to create I just really need the opportunity … connections among transfer For other non-traditional students: and non-traditional students. Keep going. Don’t ever stop. Don’t Currently, Christine Wylie is the ever give up.” coordinator for M-POD. The state, Read more online at the University and Washtenaw michigandaily.com Community College collectively fund the program. — Alexis Farmer can be reached Though the marketing for at akfarmer@umich.edu.

“I don’t want to be outcast as a second-class student.”

EDITORIAL BOARD MEMBERS

Claire Bryan, Regan Detwiler, Jeremy Kaplan, Ben Keller, Payton Luokkala, Aarica Marsh, Anna Polumbo-Levy, Jason Rowland, Lauren Schandevel, Melissa Scholke, Rebecca Tarnopol, Ashley Tjhung, Stephanie Trierweiler, Mary Kate Winn, Derek Wolfe fatal shooting at Planned Parenthood this past Friday was merely the latest event in a long history of bloody attacks on doctors and clinics that offer abortion services. According to The New York Times, “At least 11 people have been killed in attacks on abortion clinics in the United States since 1993, including the Colorado shootings.” Across the nation, opponents of abortion have vandalized, burned and bombed the clinics and offices where abortion doctors work; the doctors themselves, their staff members, patients and guests have been threatened, intimidated and murdered. Last Friday’s shootings were clearly an act of domestic terrorism — even Mike Huckabee agrees with

me on that. However, we must recognize that the violent ideology that was likely at the root of the attack is not distant, but wholly homegrown. In order to help prevent future acts of violence against abortion providers and their patients, the abortion paradigm must shift away from misrepresentations of violence and murder. We’ve got to work together to normalize the dialogue surrounding abortion and discuss the topic with far less loaded, provocative and frankly inaccurate terms than “harvesting” and “baby parts.” The reality is that a large number of women will have an abortion in their lifetimes, and the procedure itself is not only common, but also safe and legitimate. Though Friday’s

shooting (and all the violent attacks before it) certainly reflects our society’s unsatisfactory state of mental health and paltry gun laws, it’s also an undeniable reverberation of the violent and overheated terms in which some opponents discuss the procedure. Widening the debate around abortion to make room for language that’s less loaded (and more accurate) will begin to neutralize the topic and hopefully help prevent more murders of innocent people. Preventing more events like last Friday’s is something we can all agree upon, whether you’re pro-choice or not. — Anne Katz can be reached at amkatz@umich.edu.

Sports

The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com

Thursday, December 3, 2015 — 5A

ICE HOCKEY

Shenanigans with Shuart and Downing Two best friends discuss various topics in Michigan hockey By JUSTIN MEYER & JASON RUBINSTEIN Daily Sports Writer & Daily Sports Editor

Michael Downing isn’t nearly as intimidating in person as he looks on the ice. Sure, the defenseman is big, standing just over 6-foot-2 and weighing in at 200 pounds. But the vicious playing style that lands him in hot water with the officials and draws crowds to their feet doesn’t jump out. He has broad shoulders, a lean frame topped by a mop of blond hair and a wide grin that breaks out when he’s joking with his teammate and best friend Max Shuart. Shuart, a junior center, doesn’t smile. Not on the ice, not in his headshot and certainly not in the interview room. The fourthline centerman, sometimes called “Shu” or “Shuey,” is a true grinder. A strong jawline frames the mean mug he likes to carry, and from his massive thighs, it’s easy to see why he can fly on the ice. But by all accounts, the two are all but inseparable off the ice. The Daily sat down with Downing and Shuart to discuss the season, Shuart’s odd swag and who would win in a fight between the two.

*** Shuart stuck out like a sore thumb last season. He was the only Michigan player to wear a plastic face shield, called the “bubble,” instead of a caged mask. He said last season that he “didn’t want to be the only one,” but he was suprised when nine of his teammates opted to join him in donning the same helmet this year. Downing made the switch, but not by choice. He said he only switched because of a “personal reason” that his teammates know about. But making the change subsequently removed one thing Downing could make fun of Shuart for. They discussed the bubbles: Downing: Once a lot of guys put them on, all the fun went away. You couldn’t make fun of him any more. Shuart: There is a lot of hypocrisy on the team now considering some of the opinions in the past on the bubble. Downing: I don’t mind it. Shuart: It’s definitely an eye-opener about some guys’ character. *** By not sticking out anymore and being easily seen on the ice, Shuart needed to find a different way to accomplish the task. So when the team made its stick orders during the preseason, he was elated to find out no one else ordered the same stick as him — a Bauer 1X.

“In my opinion, he got a little upset that a lot of people transitioned from the cage to the bubble this year,” said junior forward Tyler Motte. “So he’s doing something to stand out.” Added junior forward JT Compher: “Maybe he thinks it was made specially for him.” Perhaps Shuart actually believes that: He has made it clear no one else on the team can use the 1X. Before Downing could answer if he’d order the stick, Shuart interjected: “Nobody will be getting that stick!” In fact, if Downing were not in the room with Shuart, the Daily wouldn’t have learned what stick it is. TMD: What stick is it? Shuart: I don’t want to say in front of anyone. Downing: It’s a (Bauer) 1X. Shuart: It might be a 1X. Downing: It’s a 1X. TMD: Why does no one else have it? Downing: Because it sucks; it’s a shitty stick. Shuart: Say what you will about the stick, but it’s been getting the job done, I think. Downing: You are tied with JT in goals, right? Shuart: That’s correct. TMD: Do you have to special order it? Shuart: No. I was kind of shocked no one else got it, considering it’s clearly the best stick available this year. But if I plug Bauer too hard — I don’t want the NCAA calling, but it’s a good stick. For the readers out

there, it gets the job done. *** Statistically, Michigan has the fifth-best offense in the country, boasting 4.09 goals per game. A large part of that success stems from puck possession that is helped by winning faceoffs. While Shuart uses what he thinks is the best stick on the market, it hasn’t helped him greatly in the circle. Shuart ranks last of the Wolverines’ centers in faceoffs, winning just 34 of the 83 he has taken. So much for the Bauer 1X. Shuart: While you’re recording here, maybe throw in there that I want to improve on faceoffs. TMD: Red told us one player needed to practice 150 faceoffs a day a couple weeks ago. Was that you? Shuart: It might’ve been, but I take anywhere between 150-200 faceoffs a week. Before Shuart could finish talking, Downing interrupted. Downing: I have to say, if you were going to make an educated guess who he told to take 150 faceoffs, I’m not going to say who, but he could be sitting in this room. Shuart: Anyway, it’s something I’m looking to

improve on. Downing: You’ve gotten better at faceoffs. Shuart: I appreciate that. *** When they’re in the same room, Downing and Shuart act a bit like brothers — it’s easy to imagine them arguing over the remote. Teammates say their favorite topic of debate is who would win a fight. “They probably talk about fighting every day and never actually fight,” Compher said. The Daily dug into the video archives to analyze the matchup. Shuart fought a few times in juniors, and is clearly more of a counter-puncher than a true fighter. He is scrappy, but easily overpowered by opponents with longer reaches. Teammates say Shuart’s best quality is his chin, which seems appropriate for his grinding playing style. Downing, on the other hand, is a pure fighting talent. A huge wingspan gives him an advantage over Shuart. He’s also a very active puncher, throwing a flurry of right hands right from the outset. “I think that one might go 10-12 rounds,” Motte said. “I

“I don’t want the NCAA calling, but it’s a good stick.”

Robinson, Wagner play Classifieds key roles for Wolverines By SIMON KAUFMAN Daily Sports Editor

RALEIGH, N.C. — A year ago, Duncan Robinson sat on the bench in street clothes as Michigan hosted Syracuse in the Big Ten/ ACC Challenge. Moritz Wagner was in Berlin, Germany, playing his games for Alba Berlin, a semiprofessional team. Robinson was a Division III transfer who was rumored to be a sharp shooter. He hadn’t proven a thing yet. Wagner was some far-off forward unknown to Wolverine fans. Fast forward a year to the 2015 Big Ten/ACC Challenge in Raleigh, N.C., and Robinson and Wagner showed why they’re two of the most important pieces for the Michigan men’s basketball team this season. With five minutes left in the first half against the Wolfpack on Tuesday, Robinson found himself open — again — from behind the arc and fired. Swish. With his fists by his side, the redshirt sophomore guard flexed, turned toward Michigan’s bench and flashed a Hey, did you all see that? smile to his teammates. It was the third time North Carolina State left him open from deep in the first frame, and the third time he hit. “I know I’m surprised (they left him open), because if we we’re playing against a guy like Duncan, we would never leave him open,” said senior guard Caris LeVert. “That’s what we’d be preaching.” In the second half, with Michigan’s once-15-point lead at just eight, Wagner caught a pass from LeVert, bodied his way to the rim, drew a foul and finished with a layup. The basket pushed the Wolverines back to a doubledigit advantage, and the 6-foot10 freshman forward stomped toward his teammates on the bench, shouted and pounded his chest. It’s a role Wagner has embraced — not just the job of scoring but that of getting his teammates pumped up, too. “Definitely, I think that’s kind of my thing, to give the team energy, and it’s what people ask me to do,” Wagner said. “I really enjoy that role and feel really comfortable with it.” Added LeVert: “Since day one,

Moe’s brought that energy and intensity. We knew he was like that. So for him to play like that in games, it’s amazing. Having him out there with that great energy, seeing him smiling and pump up the crowd, it’s awesome.” Robinson transferred from Williams College — a small Division III school in Massachusetts — before last season, but due to NCAA transfer rules, he spent last season on the bench. He could practice with the team, but he couldn’t play in games. Now, in just seven games with the Wolverines, Robinson has established himself as Michigan’s top shooter and first guard off the bench. He’s shooting 57 percent from the field this year, and his 60-percent shooting percentage from beyond the arc ranks third in the country for players with at least 20 attempts. “It’s deadly,” LeVert said of Robinson’s shooting. “When he hits a couple in a row, you want to look for him every time, every opportunity. And he just knocks them down.” Unlike Robinson, Wagner didn’t join the Wolverines with a reputation for shooting, or much of anything for that matter. He didn’t commit until April and came in as the biggest question mark on the roster. Michigan coach John Beilein hyped him up

before the season started and said he’d have some “wow” moments despite a big learning curve. In his last three games, the “wows” that have overshadowed the “ohs.” Since scoring 19 points against Charlotte in the Wolverines’ second game at the Battle 4 Atlantis, Wagner has gone 15-for-19 from the field. He tallied eight points against the Wolfpack on Tuesday, and his 23 minutes were a personal NCAA high — he played 22 minutes combined in Michigan’s first four games. In the Wolverines’ last three contests, Robinson and Wagner have produced 68 percent of Michigan’s scoring off the bench. And in the Wolverines’ first true road game at PNC Arena, Robinson and Wagner didn’t get distracted by the hype and the new setting. Robinson also played 23 minutes, and the two combined for 25 points to help Michigan claim its second straight Big Ten/ ACC Challenge matchup. “Of course you feel a little bit excited before the game when you step into the gym and you shoot around,” Wagner said. “But as soon as you’re on the court, you’re just focusing on the game.” That focus, from a high-energy European and a crisp-shooting transfer, could be key as Michigan kicks off conference play later this month.

RUBY WALLAU/Daily

Moritz Wagner scored eight points against N.C. State on Tuesday.

don’t think we’ll ever find a winner. Shuey would never give up, and Downing would just keep going. I’ll take a ticket to that fight.” Downing: I got in a couple fights back in the day (USHL). I think me and Shuart should’ve fought once, but he wouldn’t fight me. Shuart: It was never specific, but looking back, we’re such good friends that we’d like to know who got the win because we have pretty different opinions. I like to bring the physical edge to my game. I got into a few fights naturally, but I wouldn’t call myself a fighter. TMD: Are you more of a fighter or trash talker? Shuart: Those two go hand in hand in my book. A little bit of both. Downing: What I don’t like about college is guys will chirp non-stop and call you all this stuff because you can’t do anything about it. What I liked about juniors is that if somebody wanted to say something, they knew they would have to back it up. Whereas college you can’t. A lot of guys are all talk in college. TMD: Your penalty minutes are down this year. Downing: I’ve tried to stay on the ice. It’ll come eventually. It takes a couple games to get the timing down. But I don’t want to get suspended again. It’ll happen again eventually. TMD: The suspension or the big hit? Downing: (Laughs)

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RELEASE DATE– Thursday, December 3, 2015

Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis

ACROSS 1 Game piece associated with 71-Across 8 “C’mon, Let’s Play” store 15 Estate planner’s suggestion 16 Chess grandmaster Karpov 17 Cancún’s peninsula 18 Copied 19 “Nurse Jackie” network, briefly 20 Attempt 22 Org. concerned with the AQI 23 VW hatchback 24 Way out 26 Selective socializer, perhaps 29 Geologic periods 31 Soulful Franklin 33 Catch 34 Swallow up 36 Asks for more 38 Fish used as bait in bass fishing 40 Dagger of yore 41 Apple music player 45 Chess ploy 49 __ Mahal 50 Much of Oceania 52 Cut with teeth 53 Pass over 55 Recital numbers 56 Cool one 57 Tampa NFLer 59 Polynesian beverage 61 Spam holder 62 Like some skinny jeans 65 The United States, to Mexicans 68 Carrier to Tehran 69 Critical 70 Training units 71 Word that can precede the word in each set of puzzle circles DOWN 1 Sound from a crib 2 Fourth-most populous U.S. city 3 Dürer work 4 Former Labor secretary Elaine

5 Word with press or mess 6 Historic stretches 7 Many a talk show caller 8 Wage earners’ concerns 9 Person 10 Easily maneuvered, at sea 11 Bus schedule listings 12 1987 film loosely based on “Cyrano de Bergerac” 13 Suffix with glob 14 Australian airport, in itineraries 21 “Timber!” yeller 23 Awe-full expression? 25 Revealing beachwear 27 Wake maker 28 Small shot 30 Sought damages 31 Repeated notes in Chopin’s “Raindrop” prelude 32 Square measure 35 Dunham who created and stars in the HBO series “Girls”

37 Reps. counterparts 39 Hoodwinks 41 Jurist Lance 42 Spray on a pan 43 Lake Huron natives 44 Earthenware pot 46 Martini & Rossi parent company 47 “Include me” 48 Demolition stuff 51 Dance music provider

54 Chances to play 58 Trendy hi 60 Six-time All-Star Moises 61 Firm: Abbr. 62 Rap name adjective 63 Mine output 64 Committed thing 66 __ de plume 67 Neurologist’s tool, briefly

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6A â€” Thursday, December 3, 2015

The Michigan Daily â€” michigandaily.com

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The Michigan Daily | michigandaily.com | Thursday, December 3, 2015

NOTHING

ELSE

MATTERS THE MOXIES ARE READY TO DOMINATE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL BY DANIELLE IMMERMAN, DAILY ARTS WRITER

INSIDE - THE RAGBIRDS’ ANNUAL HOLIDAY SHOW - JACK WHITE’S NEW DETROIT RECORD STORE - YOG$ IS THINKING BIG

Design by Elizabeth Pearlman, Francesca Kielb & Katie Beukema

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2B — Thursday, December 3, 2015

MOXIES From Page 1B As I watched The Moxies grace the main stage of the Cleveland Agora on Nov. 20, I realized that nothing else in that moment mattered. I was watching one of the most genuine rock ‘n’ roll bands of our generation captivate an audience and hold them under a spell for the duration of their fleeting set. For the 40-some minutes that The Moxies took over the Agora, I was entranced by the way Marco Ciofani managed to make his guitar growl, releasing a thunderstorm of beautifully belted lyrics, all while dancing on stage and galvanizing the crowd. And I was struck by the way Tyler Adams played the bass like it’s just second nature. The way Adams and Ciofani relate on stage is an entirely different phenomenon that is fascinating to watch. “Marco brings the energy to the rest of us. He’s dangerous on stage. Watch your back,” Adams said. I can attest to Ciofani’s ferociousness on stage, but I don’t think Adams needs to watch his back. He and Ciofani play together like they’re brothers, like they’re yin and yang. I’ve been to several of their shows and each time it’s the exact same scenario. They’ll walk on stage, start playing and Ciofani will get worked up. Once Ciofani starts moving around, Adams will follow in pursuit. With the two of them electrifying the stage, it’s only a matter of time before their contagious energy takes over the crowd. “All it takes is one person,” Ciofani said. “All it takes is one spark — people just don’t want to be the first one.” With that mentality, Ciofani dances until the crowd gives in. The crowd will dance all night until Ciofani sacrifices himself to them. At their last show, the set ended when Ciofani played the guitar atop the mass of people pushing against the barrier to the stage; other shows have ended with Ciofani simply snapping the strings on his guitar. The Moxies are such a cohesive unit that calling them by their instrumental designations seems odd. Most bands are known by their vocalist, their guitarist, their bassist and their drummer, but for this trio it doesn’t seem to matter who plays what. They all jam together on stage just as loudly and just as hard as the other. There’s no instrument that overpowers and there’s no person that shines the brightest. To break the trio down for you, let’s start with the most essential member of any band: the drummer. When Ciofani formed The Moxies in 2011, he asked his friend Kevin Werfield to learn how to play the drums — because a band isn’t a band without a drummer. In 2014, Werfield quit the band, leaving The Moxies drummer-less. When things didn’t work out with Landon Hall, A.J. Wilder stepped in as the third and current drummer for The Moxies. Wilder, other than having an ideal stage name, hails from Iowa and played in another band down in Nashville before lending his hands to The Moxies. Judging from his performance at the Agora on Nov. 20, I would say Wilder knows exactly what he’s doing. Though

he hasn’t been with the band for long, it feels like he grew up with Ciofani and Adams. The vibe on stage seemed completely natural; Wilder’s ability to slay his drum kit doesn’t hurt either. The second member of this power trio is Tyler Adams. When Ciofani wanted to start a band, he promptly recruited Adams and told him to learn the bass. Within a matter of months, Adams learned the bass, dropped out of Kent State University and joined The Moxies full time. Five years and a move to Nashville later, and I would say it was worth it. Like Wilder with his drums, Adams has complete control over the bass. Not many people appreciate the power of the bass guitar, but it’s hard not to appreciate it in The Moxies’s case. First of all, Adams counters Ciofani’s actions on stage so it’s literally impossible not to notice his dirty blond hair moving along with the music. Musically, Adams is hard to ignore as well. With each strum of his bass guitar, Adams lays the foundation for Ciofani while simultaneously adding a layer of complexity to each song. With a standout bassist and drummer commanding both the stage and the recording studio, it becomes easy for Ciofani’s sound to pop. I asked the guys what they are listening to now, and Ciofani responded to the question enthusiastically. “I love that question. Did I tell you to ask that question? I tell interviewers to always ask an artist what they’re listening to lately. As a fan of other bands, that’s what I want to know. What is Jerry Lee Lewis listening to in his car? I’ve been listening to a lot of Queens of the Stone Age. They’re just an awesome rock band. No one ever showed me them when I lived up here (in Cleveland). No one was like check these guys out. I heard the name but never investigated it. I couldn’t find out that they were one of the flag leaders of modern day rock ‘n’ roll. They’re a guitar band.” In addition to appreciating bands with a larger reach, The Moxies are avid supporters of local bands and urge others to support their local bands as well. “We listen to a lot of Jeff the Brotherhood — get that.” (Marco then proceeds to lean forward and shout into my phone, “Jeff the Brotherhood!”) “They’re a twopiece brother band from Nashville. They’re like hillbilly Black Sabbath, it’s so fucking sweet. We saw them on Halloween night and they came out in these dark wizard outfits. He’s like standing there with his guitar and this wizard hat and cloak. That was my favorite live show in Nashville.” As for other great shows they went to, Dick Dale and Cage the Elephant were high up on their lists. Worst shows? The band remains nameless, but anything pop-punk is usually not on their list of favorites. Marco Ciofani’s appreciation for great guitar music is partly what makes him not only the creator and lead vocalist of The Moxies, but above all else, the band’s guitarist. I love Ciofani’s gritty, raw voice; it’s fantastic and it can undeniably carry the complex lyrics that he pens, but when he plays the guitar, he does so much more than just play it. “When I was 13 years old I said

fuck sitting down playing the guitar. I love to dance. I was just in my little basement in my mom’s fiancé’s house and I quit sitting down. It brings energy to what you do,” Ciofani said. Clearly Ciofani was a genius at the ripe old age of 13, because at this point, he has mastered the art of not sitting down. The amount of passion and energy Ciofani pours into his guitar when he rips it to shreds on stage is enough to bring this inanimate object to life. This intensity became all the more obvious at their most recent show at the Agora. Aside from a few songs, the remainder of their set was comprised of new songs that they’ve been working on in Nashville for the past year. These songs, the songs The Moxies played on Nov. 20, the same songs that will appear on their debut album, are songs unlike anything released this past year, arguably this past decade. It’s been almost three years since The Moxies released their last EP, so when they previewed some of their new music at the Agora, it only made me hungrier for what’s to come this spring. This album will no doubt be a catalyst for The Moxies; made in Nashville, this album has been touched by tenured pros. Jared Champion, drummer for Cage the Elephant, played drums on three tracks while long-time guitarist for Cage the Elephant, Lincoln Parish, produced and collaborated on the album as a whole. Ciofani and Parish did most of the songwriting, usually with Lightnin’ Hopkins playing in the background (though when I asked if Hopkins’s sound translated onto the album, they said it didn’t). Unlike a lot of music produced today, this album wasn’t made in a hurry. Parish aptly called the songwriting process “an organic experience — that’s usually when the best stuff comes out.” When I asked Ciofani what influenced him this time around, his response was very fitting to who he is as a musician: His influence is “Just guitar … Literally just playing the guitar. If there’s one thing I really want to do it’s to bring back guitar. Because I think there’s a space for it. It’s not that cool anymore. You don’t hear shit like Santana anymore, whether you like him or not … I think this generation and the next can really dig it because there’s been a gap in guitar music.” As far as major differences in this album versus their last EP, both Adams and Ciofani chimed “the groove” in unison. Part of the groove they might be referring to comes by way of the songwriting process. “Whenever I’m writing a song, if I can’t see some, like, 22-year-old college chick dancing her ass off to it then I’m not doing it right,” Ciofani said. “We want to write a record that is a dance record, you put it on at a party, when you’re driving or when you’re with your friends.” If their performance at the Agora is any indicator of their album, which of course it is, then I would say they nailed it. With the crowd vivaciously dancing to songs about vampire love and their famed “Black Shadow,” I can only imagine what will happen when people get their hands on their entire album.

TRAILER REVIEW The legend of Krampus in Alpine folklore is a strange one. Saint Nicholas was believed to have a number of “companBions” that accompanied Krampus him around Universal Europe during Pictures the Christmas holiday. Dec. 4, 2015 Among these was an anthropomorphic figure called Krampus, who was thought to be, in a sense, the anti-Santa Claus. Krampus, with cloven hooves and goat horns, would punish misbehaving children, often in gruesome ways. The truly troubling part of this legend, the film adaptation seems to argue, is that nothing can be done to curb the wrath of this devilish figure. “Krampus” is being marketed as a black comedy, horror holiday film, which begs the question: when was the last time you saw, or even heard

UNIVERSAL PICTURES

about, a movie like that? Think for a minute, what was the last successful Christmas horror movie? “Bad Santa?” Credit must be given where credit is due, and director Michael Dougherty (“Trick ‘r Treat”) deserves some recognition for bringing us a unique, if not totally strange, spin on the holiday film genre. The movie appears to suffer from the all-too-common bout of jump-scares and pos-

sessed toys. Scary music cues, dark corners and restricted camera angles abound. While the demonic figure itself isn’t shown, viewers get the idea: twisted horns, a creepy gait, weird snarls. The true horror of the movie, as with the legend, has nothing to do with the monster or the surprise — it’s the idea that children, the innocent gems of the Christmas holiday, cannot escape evil. - BRIAN BURLAGE

The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com

HEALTH COLUMN

Enjoy Xmas without turning into Santa

t happens around midNovember: holiday food comes out. Recipes for sweet potato casseroles slide innocently into our Facebook feeds; tantalizing pies pop up in the corners of Trader Joe’s. Fresh greens HAILEY and butMIDDLEBROOK ternut squash are suddenly overwhelmed by french-fried onions and candied yams, their packages covered in recipes for butter-laden dishes. Then there’s the snow, justifying us staying in, swaddled in blankets and fuzzy socks. Friendsgiving dinners are planned, but bike rides are canceled due to ice and dropping temps. We settle into Thanksgiving mode, finals mode, sweater-party mode. And as much as we indulge in the glorious food and traditions of the season, each serving of pumpkin pie often comes with a dollop of guilt. For many people, Thanksgiving — and the holiday season in general — is an all-or-nothing ordeal when it comes to healthy choices. On one hand, there’s the guy with a devil-may-care attitude toward the festivities, wolfing down third servings in sweatpants and abandoning the gym until New Year’s Resolution time rolls around. Then there’s the joyless warrior who’s sticking to her diet no matter what, replacing every side dish with its healthy substitute and manically bragging about how many calories she saved over “Thinsgiving.” And there’s the half million people, myself included, who ran a “Turkey Trot” on Thanksgiving Day, racing distances of 5k to marathon to offset the big meal to come. We all want to have our cake and eat it too, without tipping the scale like Santa or glaring at frosting like the Grinch. So instead of sacrificing snickerdoodles, we may kill ourselves in the gym, crushing the guilt from holiday binges to a minimum. But in the middle of a two-

hour “Turkey Burn” spin class, when you’re cursing the wine and cheese from Aunt Kathy’s house, you may ask yourself: Is this good for me? Is exercise healthy if it’s only in response to guilty binges? The problem is, if we only exercise because we feel obligated to — so we’ll really deserve that slice of pecan pie — fitness develops a negative connotation. To counter this attitude, Women’s Health has recently promoted “Guilt Free Fitness,” encouraging working out because it makes us stronger, not because we feel that we need to earn the bird. “Cycling is about conquering a steep climb so you can experience the high of flying downhill — not working off a turkey dinner. Let’s change the conversation,” the magazine urges. In theory, their mantra rings true. Exercise is so much more than a means to fitting in a party dress. We shouldn’t run because we’re ashamed of our bodies; we should run because we love our bodies and want to nourish them.

Pumpkin pie comes with a dollop of guilt. But “Guilt Free Fitness” is harder in practice. No matter if we live healthy lifestyles or struggle to stay on diets, during the holidays, we’ve probably all had the same thought: Man, I really need to workout. We’re not necessarily punishing ourselves, at least not in an unhealthy way. I think about it like this: If I have the choice of grinding out two more miles or beating myself up for overeating later, I’ll choose to run — and I’m sure others (ahem, Turkey Trotters) agree. But are we guilty of guilty fitness? I asked alum Brittany Ryann Thorpe, a 2014 School of Kinesiology graduate who’s pursuing her M.S. degree in Clinical Physiology and Metabolism at Virginia Tech, for her opinion on how to stay healthy over the holidays. “I enjoy doing extra work before eating the rich food,” said Thorpe, who was a member

of the University Rowing and Cross Country teams. “Because then I don’t feel as guilty when I do stuff my face with the holiday treats. I prefer to hate my workout a little that day more than hate how I feel about myself after consuming that food and not working out.” As a past personal trainer at Ann Arbor’s Applied Fitness Solutions, Thorpe is familiar with the challenge of staving off weight gain without sacrificing the holiday season. “The holidays can be a defeating time for many people in terms of maintaining a diet and keeping up with their workout routines,” she said. “It’s best to encourage people to maintain good habits over the holidays, but still find enjoyment in the festive season. After all, if you don’t eat that slice of pie you really want, if later in the season you become defeated with your diet, you may find yourself eating the whole pie instead!” Thorpe continued, “Accept that you might — and most likely will — gain a bit more weight on the holidays, but don’t feel defeated in your efforts to eat better and work out.” Like all things in the holidays, there’s bad news and good news. The bad news is that your grandma might ask about your love life, your runs may be in sub-zero temps and you’ll probably gain a few pounds from the pound cakes. The good news? You’re surrounded by good food, friends and family. Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you have to hibernate. Being active can simply mean taking your little sister ice skating, hiking out to get that perfect tree, or going shopping with your mom. And if you want more? Register for the Jingle Bell Run. Have the slice of pie. Because when it comes to holiday traditions, whether they be active or indulgent, I say the more the merrier. Stay moving and save splurges for special occasions, then leave the dollop of guilt at home. Middlebrook is pounding down the pound cake. To ask where to send more, email hailharp@umich.edu.

MUSIC VIDEO REVIEW Here is a music video from two true originals: Kevin Abstract, a 19-year-old hip-hop artist and A songwriter, under the Echo direction of the 20-yearKevin Abstract old Tyler Mitchell, an up-and-coming photographer based in New York City, collaborated together to create the music video for Abstract’s recent single, “ECHO.” Sadness and confusion in the face of a personal loss is the initial outline that the moody lyrics and instrumentation of “ECHO” provides. The artistic eyes of Mitchell and Abstract heighten this emotion with the juxtaposition of something strange against simple action: a motorcycle helmet-clad Kevin riding a merry-goround, or a lazy, yellow-haired and coolly-dressed Tyler haphazardly driving a bicycle down a park’s sidewalk. There are the wandering eyes of Abstract, peering through the darkened lens of his motorcycle helmet, as he travels through some undefined tunnel. Something broke, but he’s still moving forward. The sand of something slipped through his fingers, and now he’s left on the other side, pondering it all to excess. Unsure of where to go, or of how far away he can really go, Mitchell helps Abstract capture some strange sort of

FOOL’S GOLD RECORDS

sadness in “ECHO.” The strange and original visuals build upon one another as the song travels towards its climax. And there, at the apex, Abstract crawls and cries in some reddened pile of sand. You don’t understand it, the situation or how he got there, but you feel the emotion. You somehow, in some foreign way, understand his pain.

The sand of something slipped through his fingers. Abstract and Mitchell are modern reminders that age doesn’t determine talent. These young innovators are

meddling with the platforms of their visual and musical appearance. Abstract is testing the borders of the hiphop in his upcoming release with his boy-band troupe, Brockhampton. He croons like Kanye, and mixes beats into something a little more chilled. His newest release, while shrouded in mystery, is set to release in early 2016. Mitchell is a photographer and videographer who hates Instagram. Armored by talent, Mitchell has set out to avoid the motivations that modern artists of his field find in the Tumblr re-blogs and Instagram likes. He’s sick of it — he is suffocated by it — and is hoping to descend it all. These boys aren’t demanding attention: they are letting the public eye naturally glide over to their exciting originality and individuality. - AMELIA ZAK

the b-side

The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com

Thursday, December 3, 2015 — 3B

ARTIST By SHAYAN SHAFII Daily Arts Writer

COURTESY OF ERIN ZINDLE

Erin Zindle (left) is the lead singer of Ann Arbor band The Ragbirds.

Erin Zindle preps for holiday show Ragbird puts on her eighth installment at The Ark By REBECCA LERNER Daily Arts Writer

“This is not your mama’s Christmas show,” Erin Zindle said in between infectious laughs. “But it’s the kind of Ebird & show that can Friends be enjoyed by moms and dads Holiday and grandmas Show and little kids and people Dec. 11-12 of all ages, at 8 p.m. and so there’s something for The Ark everyone in it.” $20 The Christmas show Zindle is talking about is the eighth annual Ebird and Friends Annual Holiday Show, to be held at The Ark on Dec. 11. Zindle, otherwise known as Ebird, is the lead vocalist and instrumentalist of the local band The Ragbirds, a fivepiece band she started with her husband about 10 years ago. The Ragbirds’s musical influences vary across categories and continents. When they started out, Zindle and her husband would busk on the streets of Ann Arbor with her gypsy and Celtic inspired fiddle while her husband provided the percussion. With the folk elements driving their multicultural perspective, The Ragbirds call their style of music folk rock with a world influence. The Ragbirds’s love of musical diversity also inundates the style of the holiday show. With a vast assortment of artists ranging from indie bluegrass band The Accidentals to Sean Ike from the funk soul band Third Coast Kings, Zindle is making sure all kinds of music are represented. “This year we have The Accidentals joining us. And they’re just adorable and they’re going to be part of my string section. I’ve got the horns from Rhyta and my friend Brandon (Smith) from Appleseed Collective and Jessica McCumons, whose voice just blows me away,” Zindle said. “We’re covering so many styles. There’s going to be classic and old timey and gyspy fiddle and

jazz, soul, funk horns and big show-stopping R&B pieces, some tender hearted folk and everything in between.” Zindle handpicks the artists to play at the show every year, allowing her to display the both local and far-reaching talents of her friends and family. “We’re all admirers and friends and there’s a mutual admiration of the musicians on board. When we play together you see that onstage. Everybody’s really lit up and thrilled to be there because they get to play with these cool musicians onstage for one special evening. It’s a one time only thing. Every year it’s different, and it gets better every year. It improves every single year and it’s amazing.” As it has for the past five years, the Ebirds and Friends Holiday Show will take place at an Ann Arbor musical institution, The Ark.

“When people see it, they want to come back year after year.” “It’s a tiny stage for 22 people to be on, but we make it work. It’s a great spot to do the show because there’s a warm and friendly vibe in the crowd and the people who come to The Ark are just ready for the show,” Zindle said. “They’re just so into it, and very present and active and involved. There’s so many volunteers and people who run The Ark who are big fans of the show and they’re there to celebrate it with us. It’s a lot of fun.” But it’s no surprise that people are excited to collaborate with The Ragbirds. After working with producer Jamie Candiloro, who has also worked with artists like R.E.M. and Willie Nelson, The Ragbirds will be releasing their fifth studio album in early 2016. Zindle is planning a national tour after the release. “We are so thrilled about the new album. It’s everything about where we started from and our inspiration from world music. I feel like we’ve done so much travelling physically and

musically and our music has reflected all of that,” Zindle said. “With this new album, it just feels more like coming home.” But in the meantime, Zindle will be coming home through her work on the holiday show. The show recreates the familial feelings that Zindle experienced as a child during the holiday season. “When I was growing up, my family would make music only once a year,” Zindle said. “We had a really big family and they would gather together on Christmas Eve. It was my first experience of music as a joyous community bonding experience. And I felt that really deep in my soul. And it became my favorite part of that gathering. I would kind of rush through the gifts and the food and be like, ‘OK when do we get to sing?’” While the show’s inspiration stems from the music of late holiday nights of her childhood, the result is the creation of a new family and an evolution of Zindle’s meaning of home. “It’s been many years and my family doesn’t gather like that anymore. I’m here in Michigan, and I was originally from Buffalo, N.Y. So I’m even removed physically from my family,” Zindle said. “But now, I have this wonderful Ann Arbor musical family and I wanted to have a reason to say, ‘Let’s get together in one place and play all together.’ This was the perfect theme to make the centerpiece of the community gathering. It was a good way to get creative around what can be seen as a cheesy style of music, like Christmas music. But we have such talented and creative people that we have fresh, inspired and interesting takes on old tunes. And every year we feature some wonderful original songs.” The best part of the holiday show for Zindle is its capacity for bringing people together. Alongside friends and fellow musicians, she can ignite a spirit of the holidays that most performers can only dream of kindling. “The whole night is thrilling to put together, and I’ve had so many people come to the first show and they’re like, ‘I need to get tickets to tomorrow! I want to see it again.’ When people see it, they want to come back year after year, and tell their friends and family, and it grows year after year because it brings people so much joy.”

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“If I wanna do something, I just do it. I don’t sit around and plan. If I wanna work with someone or go somewhere, I’m just gonna pray it works and go.” I could immediately tell Grant Yarber, aka YOG$, was a by-any-means-necessary type of dude. Yarber, a senior here at the University, is an insanely talented artist with dreams of making it in the music industry as a producer and businessman. He took last winter off to work with some of the most exciting names in rap music, and has since returned to finish his studies before diving head first into the music industry. “I was in L.A. for winter break, and things were moving so fast I knew I couldn’t leave. I called my parents and decided to stay in L.A., and that’s when I got the Dom (Kennedy) placement. I almost didn’t come back.” Grant has a knack for throwing around huge names casually, so I could tell he’s been doing this for a while. I had to resist the urge to cut him off mid-sentence when he started running through his repertoire of collaborators. “I had a goal set for myself when I was 17: I wanted to work with Dom Kennedy, Casey Veggies, Sir Michael Rocks and Rockie Fresh. Four years later, I’ve worked with each of them in one way or another.” He has a strong working relationship with Los Angelesbased MC Niko G4, and through him he met Ricky Hil (son of Tommy Hilfiger). Hil lives with Aaron Reid (son of L.A. Reid) in Hollywood, and Yarber has developed working relationships with all of them through the sheer quality of his work and charismatic personality. At just 21 years old, Yarber also has plenty of insight on the inner-workings of the music industry. He tells me what we hear from artists is only the tip of the iceberg, and he has plenty of ridiculous stories for every lesson learned. “I was producing a song with Aaron Reid when Rich (Hil) came through and he was vibing to it. And then Dom came over. And then Casey (Veggies) came over. And then Niko came over. All of a sudden we’re about to make this crazy L.A. posse-cut; they all had their verses and were ready to record this song.” Rich called his engineers to see if anyone could come record them, but unfortunately it was too late and the song ultimately fell through. All that’s left are remnants of a song that never was. But of course, Grant wouldn’t be where he is today without being an opportunist. “I’m still sitting on that beat. I’ll probably play it for Dom next time I’m in the studio with him.” After consulting with his parents, Grant decided to come back to Ann Arbor to finish school. Despite being here for most of the year, Yarber doesn’t use his studies as a crutch for slowing down his musical output. “When I’m in Ann Arbor, I can just hone in and focus on

PROFILE

improving my craft. It’s funny, Kanye talks about doing five beats a day for three summers; I’ve been doing that for five years!” With all the huge names surrounding him, it’s easy to forget that Grant is also enrolled at the University, and like all of us, faces the same struggles that come with being here as a student. He discussed the challenges of sustaining these relationships with artists in L.A. while studying for exams and writing papers in Ann Arbor. “When you’re in the studio with someone, it’s way more personal than just e-mailing beats. You can create and see where the boundaries are, where I can push someone and be pushed as well. When I’m in Ann Arbor the whole process can feel distant; in L.A. it’s just easier to do things organically.” While Los Angeles is known for its deep roots in hip-hop history, Grant has actually been expanding his palette by delving more into pop music. “I love rap, and I’m always gonna work in it, but pop is my shit! One of my goals for the next five to 10 years is to produce an album for Lorde. That’s my favorite artist right now, and that’s the direction I’m going.”

“I want to be the guy behind the scenes putting it all together.” Transitioning from rap to pop shouldn’t be that hard, because “rap is already moving in that direction,” according to Yarber. “The way rap is changing is creating something, that when you hear it, it’s not like ‘This is rap’ or ‘This is pop.’ It just is what it is.” He cites the juxtaposition of Future and Drake on What A Time to be Alive, new-wave rap artists like GoldLink and of course the family-friendly fire of Donnie Trumpet & The Social Experiment’s Surf. YOG$ recently produced an absolute monster of a track for Alex Wiley titled “Navigator Truck,” that he says was the first time he got to show a more diverse side of his production skills. “If I take the drums off, it would just be like a mellow, indie-style beat.” “Navigator Truck” is really the beginning of something special for Yarber, as it features a show-stopping feature from Chicago MC Chance the Rapper. “I was in Starbucks just doing homework and listening to samples when it hit me out of nowhere. I immediately started chopping up the sample on my laptop keyboard, right there in Starbucks, and sent it to (Alex) Wiley when I was done.” After a period of silence, which Grant says is common, Wiley got back to him to let him know he made two songs with his beats. No word on the Chance feature yet. A day

later he rolled over, still in bed, and read a text saying he’s got Chance and Twista on his songs. “I just rolled back over and went back to sleep. When I saw that, I wasn’t gonna go crazy and tell everyone. You have to take everything with a grain of salt.” Wary of songs falling through at the last minute, Yarber played his cool until the song actually materialized. “I was at a party and my Twitter was just completely blowing up. I put my phone to my ear to check the song out and then I heard the Chance verse … I went up to one of my best friends to show him, and then someone dropped the word that ‘Chance is on a YOG$ beat.’ They put it on and everyone got to listen.” Chance pops up at the end of the track and completely steals the show, rhyming “Scooter from Madonna” with “Dinner with Obamas.” His staccato bars jab, duck and weave around Yarber’s synthy beat. Though Grant hasn’t directly linked up with Chance, he’s certainly hopeful of collaborating further in the future. “You can’t force music, and Surf is definitely something you can tell was just natural. I got people telling me to bring in electric guitar and make electronic music in general, but at the end of the day I gotta make whatever is most natural. If you’re just doing one lane now, you’re just losing.” YOG$’s emphasis on authenticity means he naturally draws inspiration from and seeks to emulate one of the greatest figures in contemporary music: Def Jam co-founder, Rick Rubin. “I know when I meet Rick Rubin, he’ll see his younger self in me. We both just have the same approach to music; he’ll really talk to artists and get the most out of them. He does whatever the art calls for, and that’s how I’ve been handling everything.” That Rubin stepped away from production and fell more into creative direction and administrative roles is particularly telling. When asked about a possible career as a performer, Yarber already knew where he was steering his career. “I don’t wanna be that guy on stage. I wanna be the guy behind the scenes putting it all together. I don’t even care about the credits. Just once you hear that sound, I want the gratification of you experiencing the music exactly the way I want. I put the emphasis on the art. The music always comes first.” If there’s one thing you can’t accuse Grant Yarber of, it’s not thinking big enough. He knows exactly where he’s aiming, and he’s on track to his target to write his name in the same history books as Rick Rubin and Pharrell Williams. “This has been my biggest year by far. This is the first year I started working with major artists, and I got my first album placement. That’s something I’ve been working towards my whole life. My next stop has to be a Grammy.”

EPISODE REVIEW “South Park” continued its most subversive season in years with “Sponsored Content,”which unveiled secrets behind B some of the town’s big South Park changes and Season 19, leaving fans Episode 8 anxious to find Wednesdays out what hapat 10 p.m. pens next. Though Comedy Central “South Park” has used inshow continuity in the past, never has it done so to the extent of season 19. Over the course of the last eight episodes, new aspects of the show — Historic Shi Tpa Town and PC Principal to name a few—are slowly being revealed as an elaborate conspiracy that threatens the town’s very existence. In “Sponsored Content,” the

COMEDY CENTRAL

South Park Elementary newspaper became the most trusted news source in America. Meanwhile, its editor Jimmy contended with PC Principal who the paper accuses of using “PC” to mean ... well something else. “Sponsored Content” might not have been the funniest episode this season, but it’s a

comforting sign that the show’s recent changes are leading somewhere interesting. It’s way too early to tell, but the season 19 arc might just be the most elaborate thing “South Park” has done in a very long time, keeping the show’s trademark edge and relevance despite its age. - DREW MARON

the b-side

4B — Thursday, December 3, 2015

The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com

EVENT COVER

HOROSCOPES

By ALEX BERNARD Daily Community Culture Editor

For the past 21 years, I have been staring at the sky, waiting for the stars, the moon and the planets to breathe their secrets into my ear. Last night, they did. Now, I burp those secrets onto your face. Capricorn (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): You will read the remainder of this article — Ha! See what I did there? Nah, I’m just kidding. You’ll lead a dissatisfying life and die when you’re 43 years old. Your kids will never know you. Your last words will be: “Mortgage.” Aquarius (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): Tomorrow will be the best day of your life, but you’ll oversleep and miss it. Pisces (Feb. 19 to March 20): You will light your ring finger on fire. It won’t symbolize anything. But it will hurt ... because of the fire. Aries (March 21 to April 19): All. Day. Tuna. Guys Named Tim: You will kind of trip on the sidewalk, but you’ll pretty much keep your balance. Like, it’ll be fine, Tims. Taurus (April 20 to May 20): Tomorrow: Day and sunlight will slide over the horizon like a sheet and cover the land. You will emerge from your hut, coated in a thin layer of grease, sand and pig excrement. You will shield your eyes, hoist your spear and pierce a water buffalo. You will skin the buffalo and the skin will be used to warm your family, your village, yourself. You, your wife and your

three remaining children will devour the meat, and it will taste so juicy, so sweet because you haven’t eaten anything in weeks. Your son, Indigo, will whisper, “Thank you, Father. Thank you for keeping me alive.” Next week, you will be 10 minutes late to work and get deducted an hour’s worth of pay. But on the bright side, your wife packed you a buffalo sandwich. Gemini (May 21 to June 20): You hate attention, but you love seaweed. You’ll grow old alone because that’s a bad combination for mate attraction. Cancer (June 21 to July 22): Hillary Clinton will drop in the polls when she’s seen darting her eyes back and forth. But nothing will happen to you because you’re not Hillary Clinton or the polls. Leo (July 23 to Aug. 22): You will deceive a Scorpio into loving you. Well done. Proceed to Phase Two. Virgo (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): Everyone born in late August and the first two-thirds of September will assemble at my apartment, remove their clothes and sing “Livin’ La Vida Loca.” Then, we will weep, for what lands are left to conquer? Libra (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22):

OK, so you’ll meet this girl and you’ll go out on a date with her and it’ll go great, but then you’ll meet her the next day and she’ll be all like, “I don’t know you,” and you’ll be like, “What!” but it’s just because she has this thing called, “anterograde amnesia” which basically means she has short term memory loss, so you’ll take her out like 50 times or something and she won’t remember you at first, but then she will, but then she doesn’t want to get in the way of your job or whatever, you know, and, well, long story short, you live happily ever on a boat in the Arctic Ocean! Yay! Oh, and she kind of looks like Drew Barrymore, which is fine. Scorpio (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Mercury is in retrograde which means Scorpios are in flux while Jupiter and Saturn settle their custody battle over Pluto, which, of course, really just wants to live with Neptune, which is also in retrograde? To boil it down, things aren’t looking great. You’re going to fall down a mineshaft. Sagittarius (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): Congratulations, you are the 433rd reader of this article! You will never be empty again. Go in peace. Except for you, Sharon.

TRUE PANTHER/XL

titled A New Place 2 Drown. The project, set to drop on the 10th, features an art book and a documentary, accompanied by a 37-minute new album. A few tracks — “Any God of Yours,” ”Sex With Nobody” and “Arise Dear Brother” — are already available on the project’s website, which requires you to inconveniently hold down the music tab while the songs play; if you let go, they stop. (My fingers got tired, so I ended up placing the bowl of fried rice I was eating on my track pad.) Of the new songs, “Arise Dear Brother” is the fullest of the three. It follows the artist’s often-

First impressions of Third Man Records By SELENA AGUILERA Daily Arts Writer

On Nov. 27, Jack White’s record store “Third Man Records” had its grand opening on Canfield St., giving the body of the Cass Corridor a beating heart. The store was filled to the brim with a line of bodies spilling outside of the door that wrapped around the corner. The weather was distasteful, but no fan seemed to mind having wet clothes if it meant they could get into the store on opening day. As security guard Anthony Bilack recalled, “People were pitching tents to get in since five in the morning yesterday.”

SINGLE REVIEW For reasons still being unearthed in therapy, my mind jumps to three things at the mention of the month of ADecember: my dead Arise Dear dog, Peanut, Brother the white dress I wore King Krule to my first True Panther/XL communion and King Krule’s 6 Feet Beneath The Moon. It was during the chilly December of 2013 that this equally chilly album soundtracked my first homecoming since departing for college, a time characterized by a lot of aimless driving and overwhelming nostalgia for high school. And now, two years later, at the start of December 2015, it seems I have some new King Krule material to get me through another winter break full of aimless driving and the even more overwhelming confusion of approaching adulthood. Appropriately announced on Dec. 1, King Krule (aka Archy Marshall) will release a multidisciplinary volume of work

VIRGINIA LOZANO/Daily

Jack White’s Third Man records opens on Cass Corridor in Detroit, Friday.

employed format: discussion of trouble with a lover, featuring an erratic drum loop and some dark jazz chords, met by his mellow baritone vocals. But Krule seems different; he’s still angry and desperate to appear apathetic — “Even though you fucked him / I don’t really give a shit” — but this time, he’s also more accepting of reality — “It reminds me why she’s not my kind.” Though the track would fit in comfortably with the rest of Beneath The Moon, it gives us a glimpse of a more mature Marshall and reminds us the 21-year-old is just trying to grow up, too. - RACHEL KERR

“People were pitching tents to get in since five in the morning.” From the outside, Third Man is just a brick wall with windows that let you peek at the wonders inside. But those windows are slightly tinted black, so you have to go in to get the full effect. It stands in between the Jolly Pumpkin, a local bar, and a high-end clothing store. On the curb in front of the establishment sits a truck that says, “Rolling Record Store.” It’s black and yellow and fits the aesthetic of the interior of

Third Man and sells only 12” and 7” records. Inside of Third Man there are black and yellow tiled counters that hold Third Man Records merchandise along with some White Stripes paraphernalia. Jack White’s creativity floods the store with intricately designed ceilings that are made up of square silver plates. There’s a listening booth that sits to the right of a stage showered in blue lights and there are records from The White Stripes, The Dead Weather and other bands that were signed under Third Man that line a hallway in the back that leads to the pressing plant. The pressing plant is only colored in red and yellow and, according to the store’s reissuing manager Dave Buick, the plant will help create jobs in the neighborhood. Dressed in a black suit with a gold tie — the uniform of all of the store’s male workers, including Jack White himself — Buick describes that his job is to reissue old albums that should be brought back and to help scout talent in Michigan to sign under Third Man.

“We want to bring creativity back here.” “Detroit will be good for us,” Buick said, explaining that this is “Detroit Rock City,” and Jack White wants to really make a difference in this area. Aside from

opening Third Man in the location close to where Jack White first performed, Buick explained that the Cass Corridor was specifically chosen as the location in hopes to bring the creative and artsy scene back.

Jack White wants to really make a difference. “We want to get rid of the junkies and really bring creativity back here,” Buick said. He hopes that Third Man Records will act as a tourist attraction, a record store for music appreciators to browse in, a record pressing factory and a recording studio. The stage in the front room will hold poetry readings, stand-up comedy acts and local band performances. “We have other plans for the future. This store isn’t the only thing we had in mind,” Buick said. White, Buick and the rest of the team are brainstorming ways to keep the public on their toes and to continue to give back to Detroit. Jack White’s passion to bring the city back to life shows in the contributions he has made. Witnessing the fall of the neighborhood he grew up in, which is just a few blocks away from where Third Man Records now stands, Jack White is just trying to make his hometown feel like home again.

NO FILTER

Melanie Martinez’s emotions empower By CARLY SNIDER Daily Arts Writer

Melanie Martinez is twenty years old. Each side of her hair is dyed a different color, often pink and black. Her lips are regularly painted dark purple or blue, her hair adorned with bows. She has tattoos of hearts, cartoon animals and toys covering her arms. She’s an artist. She’s a crybaby. Martinez began on “The Voice” in 2012, gaining notoriety for her original takes on hits like “Toxic” by Britney Spears and “Cough Syrup” by Young the Giant. Though she didn’t win the competition, Martinez received a contract from Atlantic Records. Since then, she has exploded, and on her first full-length album, she exudes artistry and personal ingenuity. Cry Baby was released in August. As mentioned on her website, the soundscape

plays largely on Martinez’s fascination with vintage toys and the influence of her father’s interest in old-school hip hop. Tracks like “Carousel” relate the music to the lyrics, using carnivalesque melodies and robust beats to launch listeners into the setting of the narrative. Martinez uses trance tones, playful pings and hiphop beats to craft her sound. With ominous undertones, the fantastical and whimsical instrumentation compliments her dark and satirical lyricism. Spanning sixteen songs, Cry Baby, a beast of an album, tackles Martinez’s emotional past. It’s a conceptual album, and it uses both vocal and lyrical cues to spin listeners a tale of a young life gone awry. Prominent subject matter includes substance abuse, adultery, body image and isolation. Martinez creates an alter ego, Cry Baby, to play out the fantasies created

through her music. Much like Marina and the Diamonds and her Electra Heart persona, Cry Baby is featured in all of the music videos for the album. The constancy of theme and character push the album’s narrative from a purely musical and lyrical experience to a visual representation of Martinez’s artistry. She tells a story, but she obfuscates what is fact and what is fiction. The storyline revolves around Martinez’s childhood label of a “crybaby,” how she was deemed overly emotional by her peers and, consequently, how she thought it to be true. Rather than shying away from this taunt, she embraces it. Martinez’s acceptance of her emotions empowers her. By outing herself as an intrinsically emotional being, she takes away the ability of others to bash her for it — her lack of stoicism is a sign of strength.

ATLANTIC RECORDS

Read more of Carly Snider’s “Music & Gender” articles on No Filter at michigandaily.com

She owns her insecurity and, through its ownership, is able to come to terms with herself and invite listeners to do the same. Cry Baby is complexly, painfully honest and writing if off as nothing more than emotional pop drivel isn’t an option. Martinez’s agency over her own emotional state allows her to express her traditionally feminine characteristics without falling into the stereotype. She’s open about

her relationship with her mind, showing that even things with sweet exteriors may only be a coating for serious underlying issues. Martinez takes the trope of the sensationally emotional woman and throws in her own kink. Her hyperbolic use of femininity paired with her cynical lyricism creates a persona unlike any female figure currently in the mainstream. She always wears

makeup and has her hair done, but her makeup is dark and her hair is unnatural. Her girly, frilly attire is dainty, yet it’s somewhat off-putting when worn by a grown woman. When simplistic, singing of carnivals and birthday parties is innocent. But it becomes perverse with the addition of adult metaphors. Cry Baby plays with society’s emotional standards and sheds light onto the power of the selfcontrolled, self-aware woman.