Crescent Magazine February 2010

crescent College Culture Upfront

February 2010 n uecrescentmagazine.com

University of Evansville

magazine

PEACE, LOVE & COFFEE

Penny Lane — The coolest place to get warm

PURPLE HEARTTHROBS

Get up close and personal with our hunks in trunks KASEY ESSER talks about what it takes to build the body

MODERN DAY COMMUNICATION The status of face–to–face conversation $2.50

In the Know: Squashing rumors about UE Athletics

Randall Oliver, MD Lauren’s Dad

Trisha Stuckey, FNP2828 Mount Vernon Ave.

U of E Nursing School Class of ‘97 (812) 425–9824

www.oliverclinic.com James Schroeder, LCSW Randall Oliver, MD

Trisha Stuckey, FNP The regional referral center for multi-disciplinary pain management James Schroeder, LCSW

2828 Mount Vernon Avenue

The regional referral 812-425-9824 center for multidisciplinary www.oliverclinic.com pain management

We specialize in: Chronic Pain Back and Neck Pain Migraine Headache Arthritis Fibromyalgia

BearOliver Oliver, our Comfort comfortDog dog Bear — Our

We Specialize In: Chronic Pain • Back & Neck Pain Migraine • Headache Arthritis • Fibromyalgia

uecrescentmagazine.com

FEBRUARY 2010

t t

12 Perfect Peaks

Fall in love — or on your face — with the winter attractions at Paoli Peaks

Ally Mackay

t

contents

INSIDE

3 The Cubicle

4 Liberal Conscience 5 Spotlight 6 In the Know

8 Snapshot 10 Through the Lens 12 Cheap Dates 13 Sexplanation 14 Cover Feature 30 Off the Wall 31 How to...

32 Wildcard 33 Janky vs. Juicy

t t t t t t t t

t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t

34 Health & Fitness 36 Beauty & Fashion 37 Crossword 38 Eats & Sidedish 39 Nightlife 40 Schitzengiggles

t t

10 Through a

King’s Eyes

Crescent Magazine introduces something new — a look at campus through the eyes of our photographer’s

14

t t

t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t

Purple Heartthrobs

They may not be decorated veterans, but we think these 14 UE men deserve a medal

“A big part of my life is helping people. I make sure they know I’m there for them.”

—Andrea Hughes, page 8

t 8t

Step by Step

Take notice. Junior Andrea Hughes is stepping to the beat of her own drum

5

t t t t Spotlight t Senior t Amy Gallagher has already t captured t an MVC Championship t and the heart t of UE fans t

“Vinny, I got a fever and the only prescription is more cowbell”

4

$

Single Tan in a Level 2 bed

(812) 402–8454

• 701 N BURKHARDT

4 N. Weinbach • 477–7500

408 N. Main • 424–9871

4 CROSS–EYED CRICKET 2 2 – 6 % 4 OFF 6 4 with Student ID

10

2101 West Lloyd Expressway

Resident Student Association

R SA General Assembly 7 pm • Thursdays Graves 302

s COtude NG nt We An RES lc y

S

om

S e t tude o A nt Ev tte is ery Th nd urs d 5 ay

2

• E :00 p yka .m. mp A

Crescent Magazine l February 2010

It may not be flowers, but it’ll sure make you feel better!

1924 E. Morgan Ave (812) 425–4422

FREE Delivery to UE’s Campus!

{

}

CONTENT. Crescent Magazine started out the year letting readers know that the staff would try to include something for everyone, and offered a word of caution to readers about our intentions to fully serve every faction of campus. We wanted to write and design the magazine around things of interest to collegeage students. And we believe we have done that. Feedback from fall semester was overwhelmingly positive. But, a few concerns were raised, which we thought we would address.

The magazine and those who work for it have been called “white trash,” “tacky” and even “the monthly period of campus.” While we don’t respond to all the comments received — sometimes there just isn’t anything we can say to calm someone down — we do read them. So, with a new semester upon us, we thought we would respond to some things we have received.

First, we’re not trying to be sensational journalists. We’re not trying to be Cosmo or Playboy, although we use a variety of magazines as inspiration.

Our goal was to give campus something it lacked: a student publication that is enjoyed and actually read by the student body.

It’s working. Readership for the magazine was higher last semester than it’s been in recent years for the newspaper. It’s nice to see people leisurely sitting around — even hiding them in notebooks and textbooks during classes — reading a copy. We also know that there are fewer magazines left in the media racks at the end of each month.

As for complaints about coverage of sex and alcohol, we recognize that these topics may make some people uncomfortable. But the truth is, very few articles deal with those topics, and articles dealing with those topics ran in the newspaper for years. Don’t believe us? Check out the archives at uecrescent.org. And why didn’t those topics elicit the same reaction in recent years? Because no one was reading the newspaper.

If you think sex and alcohol consumption aren’t happening at UE, think again — or log onto uecrescentmagazine.com and check out Campus Crime.

Of course, we’re in no way trying to encourage illegal or unsafe behavior, but ignoring reality seems immature and irresponsible. We understand that a percentage of students aren’t interested in this content, and we’re in no way trying to offend them. But keep in mind that for the number of those who aren’t interested in those topics, there are just as many — or more — who are.

After reviewing the results of our readership survey sent in November, about 400 students responded, and we learned what’s popular and what’s not so popular with readers. We’ve made adjustments based on some of that information, and we will continue to try to include something to satisfy most tastes. Contrary to what some of our critics believe, our Editorial Board heavily researches every article topic, trying to balance the content of each issue.

With that being said, we made the decision recently to pull certain content from the magazine. It’s disheartening to us and the writers, but we realized that jeopardizing the credibility and popularity of the publication just isn’t worth it. But our standing departments are here to stay. Readers can still look forward to Sexplanations, Off the Wall (with its “Drink of the Month”) and Schitzengiggles, three of the magazine’s most popular departments according to our survey results.

We honestly do enjoy reading your constructive feedback because we’re constantly striving to make the magazine better. Reading your comments is a way to keep us in touch with our audience. So, keep them coming. As much as this is our magazine, it’s your magazine too. Just remember: we’re listening. After all, you got your crossword puzzle, didn’t you? n

crescent MAGAZINE EDITORIAL Writing Director: Peter Hanscom Writing Editor: Lauren Oliver Departments Editor: Josh Fletcher Assignment Editor: Jennifer Stinnett Columnists: Regan Campbell, Monica Krause Contributing Writers: Whitney Cohen, James Drury, Brennan Girdler, Alex Jackson, Mindy Kurtz, Megan Merley, Heather Powell, Rachel Solava, Amanda Squire, Lauren Williams, Kate Wood

CREATIVE Creative Director: Sylvia Seib Assistant Creative Director: Jamie Willhelm Photo Editor: Alaina Neal Designers: Jennifer McKee, Jessica Siddens Illustrator: Courtney Hostetler Contributing Photographer: Sunny Johnson

EDITING Editing Director: Allison Butler Web Content Editor: Kristin Benzinger WEB SITE DESIGN & PRODUCTION Web Director: James Will Web Designers: Suzy Maiers, Kristofer Wilson

MARKETING & SALES Marketing Director: Chase Schletzer Advertising Sales Manager: Chris Watkins Advertising Design Manager: Melissa Weisman Advertising Designers: Tiffany Conroy, Sarah Powell, Amanda Topper HOW TO CONTACT US: Address: 1800 Lincoln Avenue, Evansville, Ind. 47722 Phone: (812) 488–2846 FAX: (812) 488–2224 E-mail: crescentmagazine@evansville.edu Marketing & Sales: (812) 488–2221 and 488–2223 Advertising E-mail: crescentadvertising@evansville.edu Printer: Mar-Kel Quick Print, Newburgh, Ind. CRESCENT MAGAZINE is UE’s student magazine. It is written, edited and designed by students, and distributed seven times during the academic year.

The magazine is funded through advertising revenue and a subscription fee paid on behalf of students by SGA. Circulation is 1,750. © 2010 Student Publications, University of Evansville.

Editorial Policy. Commentary expressed in unsigned editorial pieces represent a consensus opinion of Crescent Magazine’s Editorial Board. All other columns, articles and advertising are not necessarily the opinion of the Editorial Board or other members of the magazine’s staff.

Letter Submissions. E-mail your letters to crescentmagazine@evansville. edu and write “letter” in the subject line. Crescent Magazine welcomes letters from members of the UE community, but material the Editorial Board regards as libelous, malicious and/or obscene will not be published. Letters should not exceed 400 words. For verification, letters must include the author’s name, year in school or title and e-mail address. Crescent Magazine will not print anonymous letters or those letters that cannot be verified. Letters may be edited for length, style, grammar and spelling. They may also appear on uecrescentmagazine.com.

February 2010 l Crescent Magazine

3

liberal conscience

Modern-Day

COMMUNICATION

It’s been said you use Twitter to stalk celebrities and Facebook to stalk your friends. But there are other ways to communicate that don’t come with such clear instructions.

Y

oung adulthood is a time of selfdiscovery. In the 21st century, we have many new avenues to express ourselves. We define who we are through technology, but it has not made the process of self-discovery any easier for our generation than those before us.

Technology is confusing, and misunderstandings are common. Different methods of communication serve different purposes, and they can either make your life worthwhile or control it.

Some of the new forms of communication are beneficial. My mom never would have allowed me to study abroad in East Africa if I hadn’t been able to update my blog every week so she knew I was safe.

My cousin serving in Afghanistan can Skype with his wife and sons. And we’ve all texted a friend across the room to discretely gossip about someone nearby.

But technology has its drawbacks.

Some critics claim society has fallen apart because we lack the sense of community present in past generations. In his book, “Bowling Alone,” Robert D. Putnam laments this process.

“Our growing social-capital deficit threatens educational performance, safe neighborhoods, equitable tax collection, democratic responsiveness, everyday honesty and even our health and happiness,” he said.

Certainly technology alone is not to blame, and I doubt it can effectively alter the IRS. But technology is contributing to the phenomenon of distancing ourselves from others.

I’ve had hour-long text message conversations more times than I can count, but actually speaking face-to-face would have saved time and effort. Some people have several hundred Facebook friends, but they don’t hang out with those hundreds of people on the weekends. My brother spent more time playing World of War-

4

Crescent Magazine l February 2010

craft than he did catching up with family at Thanksgiving.

It’s no wonder depression rates are soaring. People have much less meaningful contact with others. You can communicate in a dozen ways, but it’s only become easier to avoid real conversations. People are now more isolated with better technology.

Technology doesn’t create connections between people. It only enhances ones already in existence. It also exacerbates loneliness for people who do not have great relationships. You can communicate with someone in nearly every part of the world, but what’s the use if you have no one to actually interact with?

Regardless of the helpfulness of technology, we’re finding it necessary to create etiquette for each method of conversation. An updated Facebook status could either express your love for your friends or be a huge insult. Maybe you hint to a rumor on campus or write a cryptic message, but everyone knows it’s about your recent breakup.

Even not writing a new update can be rude. If all your friends change theirs after a memorable night out, and you don’t, it looks like you don’t care. Of course, all 700 friends need to know about it.

How you communicate is as important as what you say. If you submit a comment on a web site, you won’t seem intelligent if you replace syllables with numbers or use ridiculous acronyms. Most of us began using proper grammar when we got rid of our AOL accounts.

A certain degree of professionalism is required. Sometimes it’s fun to be Facebook friends with your professors. But it can cause problems when they see your conversations with classmates written at 2 a.m. the same day a paper is due.

My senior seminar class decided the best way to avoid this was a hidden Facebook group. In there, we were free to express our frustrations and brag about how

n Monica Krause,

a senior interlittle sleep we got. national studies Natural selection is major from Fort even present in technolWayne, offers her ogy, and I don’t mean perspective on isthat older kinds of tech- sues facing stunology get thrown out dents today. in favor of new ones.

The people who excel at the new methods have certain traits in common.

First, these people are witty. No one will want to follow your tweets if you aren’t funny, slightly sarcastic and a little pretentious. Wit is the reason people obsessively read AIM away messages. Besides, God required college students to be witty in the Ten Commandments of College.

These people are also able to back up their opinions. If a Facebook note has a chain of comments that turn heated, good communicators can make their statements brief and poignant. And always be prepared for an equally witty and opinionated person of the opposite stance to start an argument. Then it becomes a battle over who gets the last word.

These people may be great communicators, but what do you really know about them? We put ourselves out there for the world to see, but we are rarely honest. Online media gives us complete control over what others know about us.

Technology creates the opportunity for illusions, so you never really know people until you meet them face-to-face. The best communicators could be some of the least admirable people. They’re witty online but have subpar social skills. The computer screen becomes their mask.

Technology is confusing even for those who know how to use it. Some people are more in tune with the new electronic culture than others. It makes life a lot easier, but it also hinders real connections.

Little about technology helps us relate to others. It doesn’t teach us how to be good friends, family members or neighbors. There’s no app for that. n

sports

Spotlight on:

by Lauren Oliver

AMY GALLAGHER

All you need to please this women’s basketball shooting guard is some chocolate and a nap From planning mini-tournaments with her older brothers to winning the MVC Tournament last year, senior Amy Gallagher consistently helps lead her team. This exercise science and physical therapy assistance major from Neligh, Neb., not only acts as a role model for her teammates, but keeps them germfree, too.

Crescent Magazine: How did you come into the role of co-captain with junior guard Stephanie Bamberger and senior center Hannah Singleton?

Gallagher: I had three years of great leadership with people I looked up to every day. I’m still following people, but I try to step up.

CM: What made you choose exercise science and PTA? AG: I’ve been active my whole life. I love the bones and the movements of the body. Injuries come with being active, so I’m constantly in physical therapy. When I’m being diagnosed, I become interested in my own healing.

CM: What are your post-graduation goals?

AG: Hopefully I can work in an outpatient clinic and focus on orthopedic sports. But if I got the opportunity to play basketball and turned it down, I know I would regret it. I get so jealous hearing my friends [are] playing in Germany and Australia. I would love it if it didn’t hinder my education too much.

CM: Have you always played basketball?

AG: I played other sports, but basketball has always been my favorite. I grew up watching Michael Jordan with my best friend and my three older brothers. We made mini-tournaments and played ball all the time.

CM: Do you ever get burned out?

AG: When it collides with school, I have to mentally crunch down and focus, but I never get sick of the game. I knew

coming in I’d be committed, and I’ve never regretted it.

CM: Does the team have any rituals?

AG: Everything is structured around nap time. We’re like little kids. If something goes wrong and we don’t get it, we get crabby.

CM: What will you miss the most?

AG: I’ll miss the locker room talk.

We’re all weird. We’re with each other all the time, so we joke that we’re each other’s only friends.

CM: What won’t you miss?

AG: There’s a constant worry every day that someone will get in trouble. If the coach is mad at someone or one thing goes wrong, it makes the whole team paranoid. We just want to keep a stable homeostasis on the team. Everybody is constantly watching you; it’s pressure.

CM: Do you feel competitive with the men’s basketball team?

AG: I feel like we have a lot more to prove than the men. We’re still fighting for fans. As a senior, there’s this sense of urgency to leave here with a great season under our belts and no regrets.

CM: What might people be surprised to learn about you?

AG: I love to scrapbook. I have a creative side that no one sees. Sometimes I’m antisocial because I stay in my basement going through pictures and scrapbooking.

CM: What do you do in your spare time?

AG: Nothing warms me more than to clean. My roommates and I are constantly on the go, so when we have time off we say it’s cleaning day.

CM: What’s your favorite sport to watch?

AG: Basketball is my favorite. I’m a Lebron (James) fan, so I like to light a fire under Kobe (Bryant) fans and Photo by Sunny Johnson

play devil’s advocate. I’m always for the Bulls. I’m still in denial that Jordan retired.

CM: Do you have any vices?

AG: After every meal I have to have chocolate. I’m also a big germ freak. I’m always telling people to go wash their hands. It’s my biggest pet peeve.

CM: How did you get the nickname Jebby?

AG: I was on my official visit, and everyone made fun of my “podunk” town.

When they asked if I had a boyfriend, I thought of the most country name I could — Jebediah. Everyone got really quiet and asked, “Are you serious?” (Former UE standout) Rebekah Parker called me Jebby, and, back then, pretty much whatever she said went. n

February 2010 n Crescent Magazine

5

in the know

The Business of Sports

by Peter Hanscom & Jennifer Stinnett

Rumors of special privileges, debates about NCAA Division I status and concerns about finances plague UE Athletics

S

ports at UE. Students and the rest of the campus community willingly dish out their opinions on Aces athletics, and many cite inaccurate data and mere assumptions to justify their stance.

But the realities behind the inner workings of the Athletics Department and the role sports play at UE are complicated in addition to being controversial.

UE has been an NCAA Division I school since 1977 and has competed in the 10-member Missouri Valley Conference, the nation’s second-oldest D-I conference, since 1994. Typically, the D-I label brings to mind large universities with huge enrollments and expansive, modern facilities that dole out sizeable athletic scholarships and have money to burn.

In order to be D-I, schools go through a rigorous application process and must meet stringent requirements. There are about 350 schools that compete at the D-I level, with currently the 10th smallest D-I school in the country. UE has the smallest enrollment of any school in the MVC. Each D-I school must have at least 14 sports, with men’s teams never outnumbering women’s teams. UE has 14, with eight women’s sports (cross-country, volleyball, soccer, basketball, swimming & diving, softball, tennis and golf) and six men’s (soccer, cross-country, basketball, swimming & diving, baseball and golf).

There are about 250 student-athletes at UE. Many people, faculty included, complain to a certain extent about everything from the special treatment athletes receive to the astronomical costs of running the department. In fact, according to a recent uecrescentmagazine.com survey, 47 percent of students think UE places too much focus on sports and the department. So, what is the reality behind the rumors, complaints and grumbling?

Do athletes get special privileges?

Yes, but not as many you think. Granted, there are two suites in North Hall reserved for incoming men’s basketball players. But most athletes live in residence halls and the Villages, just like others.

6

Crescent Magazine l February 2010

While coaches are allowed to use this housing perk to support their recruiting effort, Athletics Director John Stanley said most players chose UE for other reasons.

Although it’s a violation of UE’s housing policy, administration believes it is necessary to help the men’s program.

Many students also believe athletes are permitted to register for classes before other students.

“Student athletes don’t have a lot of wiggle room for when they can take classes,” said James MacLeod, professor of history, who serves as UE’s NCAA Faculty Athletics Representative, a liaison between athletics and UE, and an official representative of UE in NCAA affairs.

This lack of wiggle room is one reason most D-I schools grant their athletes early registration. Despite attempts made in 2007 by certain groups on campus, student-athletes continue to register at the same time as other students. Faculty Senate voted down the request, citing other programs, such as theatre and music, whose majors have equally busy schedules and do not receive special treatment.

Often times, scheduling is difficult for student-athletes since away games force them to miss class. But MacLeod said they’re not getting away with not doing their coursework. Assignments must be completed, usually before the players leave on trips. MacLeod added that of the schools in the MVC, UE has the strictest class attendance policy.

Despite the pressure of being a studentathlete, members of sports teams have some of the highest GPAs within the conference and among groups on campus. The graduation success rate of UE’s athletes is also high, with 91 percent of scholarship athletes graduating.

“Athletes get more, but they give more, too,” MacLeod said. “I think they certainly earn it.”

Some believe that the suggestion that athletes receive extra benefits has been exaggerated.

“These [privileges] are more perception than reality,” Stanley said.

Does the department lose money?

Yes, but UE is not alone since most sports programs lose money as well.

“Almost no school makes money off their Athletics Department,” MacLeod said.

The only sport at UE that is usually profitable is men’s basketball, which means that none of the other teams make a profit. Programs that earn a lot of money for their schools are those where a number of teams they sponsor happen to regularly play in postseason championships.

Stanley explained that like most other schools, much of the funding for the department comes in the form of endowments and gifts, and those endowments and gifts cannot be used for other university operations since they have been earmarked for athletics.

Even though it might appear that Athletics has a gigantic budget, in reality, UE’s budget is drastically smaller than most of its peer institutions in the MVC. “Athletics has been asked to make bricks without straw,” MacLeod said.

Why does UE compete in Division I? One of the most common complaints about UE’s programs and the department is its Division I status. Less than stellar seasons and rare tournament or playoff appearances leave students wondering why the board of trustees doesn’t make the change to another level, such as Division III, a class that seems to be more in tune with UE’s enrollment, admission standards and private school status.

In 2002, UE investigated the advantages and disadvantages of changing divisions. It was decided at that time that a move to DIII, as well as D-II, was not realistic or beneficial in the long term.

“Some people think switching to D-III as something that will solve everything,” MacLeod said. “This is very naive. D-III won’t make the problems go away.”

He said advantages to being D-I include national exposure, scholarship opportunities for athletes, alumni donations and the potential for revenue-producing sports, which is not possible in D-III.

Even though many see D-I as the highest level of competition, thoughts that DIII is less competitive are untrue. But it is cheaper.

“The concern I have is almost entirely financial,” said Dick Connolly, professor of philosophy. “Can [UE] continue to do this?”

Despite the financial impact, holding on to the D-I brand is connected to the reputation that surrounds it — schools want to be D-I. According to the NCAA, there is currently a freeze until 2012 on schools applying to become D-I, and after that, there’s a probationary period of up to four years.

“We own a franchise that a lot of people want,” Stanley said.

The fact that UE participates in the MVC can at times be financially beneficial. Whenever an MVC team plays during a national tournament, profits from those games are divided among all the conference teams. While these profits are not divided equally — they are based on a teams’ win-loss record — all MVC teams benefit to a degree. The money certainly isn’t enough to create a profitable franchise, but it’s more than is received from D-III play.

What’s the truth concerning athletes and scholarships?

Probably the biggest misconception on campus concerns scholarships for athletes.

UE’s student-athletes can receive two types of scholarships: academic and athletic, and the two can be combined.

Scholarships help attract talented players and high academic achievers. Most athletes don’t receive athletic scholarships, let alone the full scholarships often cited.

But academic scholarships are more common, which are based on merit. This may explain why the cumulative GPA for all UE sports teams is 3.2.

The NCAA — not UE — determines the number of scholarships allotted each year.

According to NCAA rules, players on the volleyball and men’s and women’s basketball teams must receive full scholarships — commonly called “full rides” — if they are recruited and accepted to play for UE. Each team is given a specified number of scholarship funds that can then be divided among players anyway the coaching staff wants.

“Some people just get a tiny amount,” MacLeod said. n

If you don’t pick up your copy of the 2009 LinC, you’re really gonna wish you had.....

and considering you’ve already paid for it.....

Student Publications • Ridgway • Second Floor February 2010 l Crescent Magazine

7

8

Photo by Alaina Neal Crescent

Magazine l February 2010

snapshot

by

This campus leader can bust a move — and stereotypes, too

C

ollege can be intimidating, but junior Andrea Hughes is trying to make it a little less so. With a big bowl of candy sitting on a table in her room and advice for anyone who needs it, Hughes wants to make everyone’s day special.

As one of Brentano Hall’s resident assistants, Hughes enjoys helping freshmen adjust, not just to UE, but to the changes in their lives.

“A big part of my life is helping people,” she said. “I make sure they know I’m there for them.”

But if she’s not around, she lets her residents know they have other options.

“She’s a really good leader,” freshman Danielle Cotton said. “She’s one of those people who can tell how you’re feeling.”

Cotton’s issues with her weight made her hesitant to join the Step Team, but Hughes encouraged her. Through this activity, she acquired more than dance moves. “She helped me with my self-esteem,” Cotton said.

One thing Cotton likes about being on the team is how Hughes never points out who is having trouble keeping up. When they practice, Hughes pairs those struggling with those who are more experienced so everyone is on the same page.

Cotton said Hughes is always helping those who need extra practice.

Hughes is more than just a member of the team; she’s its president and founder.

During high school, Hughes said she was involved in a group that stepped quite a bit. Noticing that UE didn’t have a team, she took the initiative to begin one by soliciting Black Student Union for help. This is just one way Hughes has helped students on campus.

“The quality of campus culture, particularly the African-American community, has

STEP

by Heather Powell

improved,” said LaToya Smith, diversity and outreach initiative coordinator. “She has contributed a great deal.”

Smith attributes much of Hughes’ success to her campus involvement. As president of the Multicultural Action Committee, Hughes leads discussion meetings for presidents of other multicultural organizations, including PRIDE, BSU and International Club.

“We just meet and discuss events to do together,” she said, “and see if they need assistance with their other activities.”

In addition to her other involvements, Hughes finds time to be active in PRIDE and BSU. She joined PRIDE through her roommate, who once invited her to attend the group’s annual drag show. Since then, she has participated in activities like Day of Silence and the Coming Out panel.

With BSU, she has been a part of Martin Luther King Jr. Day plays, both as a stagehand and as a poetry reader. Black History Month is important to Hughes because it celebrates the advancement of the black community.

“This is how much we have grown,” she said. “This is what happened and this is how you can grow in a positive direction.”

Smith recognizes the importance of Hughes’ involvement in the African-American community.

“I see her more as a positive role model,” she said. “She’s very focused and driven. She uplifts the race because she’s a positive example among the negative stereotypes we see in all the media.”

As president of two organizations and a member of multiple others, it’s a wonder what drives Hughes.

“I think it’s sheer determination,” Smith said. “She just goes above and beyond getting things done.”

Even with everything going on, Hughes

still finds time for her friends. Sophomore Hope Bauer, also a Brentano RA, met Hughes during a hall staff get-together before students arrived last August.

“I love working with her,” she said. “She likes to keep things light and entertaining.

Her personality draws you to her.”

Hughes evidently goes the extra mile to show her residents she really cares. Whether she is surprising them with donuts or just performing her everyday RA duties, Hughes will stop at nothing to brighten someone’s day.

“A lot of people go to her room, and she always has a bowl of candy,” Bauer said.

Even though Hughes might seem shy at first, she doesn’t let that stop her.

“Once she knows you, she remembers your name,” Bauer said.

Sophomore Anahi Gasse said Hughes is a fun person who likes to tease her friends.

“Our relationship is play-fighting a lot,” she said. “Her main phrases are ‘how rude,’ and ‘I’m offended.’ It’s just funny.”

Hughes’ desire to help others lead her to becoming an RA, and her intuition and love of dance compelled her to start the Step Team. Her aspiration to see growth in others has helped break stereotypes and so much more, because of her determination and sweet nature.

“She has a gentle spirit,” Smith said.

“She’s strong, and she’s driven. She’s not boastful, even though she could be. She’s a superstar. We are very fortunate to have her at the University of Evansville.” n

February 2010 l Crescent Magazine

9

through the lens

Through a King's Eyes Photo moments from Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Jan. 18

Photo by Alaina Neal

Photo by Alaina Neal

Photo by Sunny Johnson

TAKING A STAND— After delivering a powerful poem about the support of freedom and equality for all men, sophomore Ibhade Eigbobo takes a final moment to raise his fist and call together his brothers, sophomores Emmanuel Omere, Ibukunluwa Araoye, Toby Onwumere and Brandon Williams, to stand up against racial discrimination during Black Student Union’s production “A Long Time Comin’.”

WITH PEN AND PAPER — Scribbling notes on a crumpled newspaper, senior Stephen Wilson as Martin Luther King Jr. writes a letter while in jail during “A Long Time Comin’.” The note becomes King’s famous “Letter from Birmingham Jail.”

10

Crescent Magazine l February 2010

A MARCH TO REMEMBER — Reenacting 1963’s March on Washington, residents of Evansville join students as they walk down Walnut on their way to the C.K. Newsome Center. Carrying the UE banner are freshmen Kassie Cox, Liz Graper, Danielle Weeks and Melanie Bacaling.

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. • Info Tables in Ridgway• Feb. 2 & 3 ••• 9 p.m. • Formal Info Session • Eykamp 255 • Feb. 9

ru MAG• nificent?

Crescent Magazine Needs You Academic Year 2010–11

Writing Director Writing Editor • Assignment Editor • Writers Editing Director Copy Editors Creative Director Assistant Creative Director Designers • Photographers• Illustrator Marketing and Sales Director Ad Sales Manager • Sales Associates Advertising Design Manager• Ad Designers Marketing Liaison Web Director Web Designers

February 2010 l Crescent Magazine

11

cheap dates

by Brennan Girdler

Like a popsicle in a desert, Paoli Peaks may be hard to believe unless you’ve tasted it firsthand

A

fully functioning snow globe, where parkas and snow angels can be seen through even the driest winter months, Paoli Peaks is southern Indiana’s winter wonderland.

Featuring something for everyone, this park is sure to give you your money’s worth. It offers a variety of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, tubing or falling like most of us would while learning how to do any of the three.

Covered in fresh powder on even the mildest days, Paoli Peaks is a cozy destination for any adventurous couple.

“I had lots of fun with my boyfriend when we went,” said senior Joanne Cobar. “It was his first time snowboarding, so I got to see him fall a lot.”

Luckily, Paoli Peaks provides numerous instructors — both eager and affordable — who can get you from stumbling to sloping in just a few lessons.

“If it’s your first time, lessons are essential,” Cobar said, “And skiing is definitely easier, but I may be biased because I snowboard.”

For suicidal skiers, Paoli Peaks has two terrain parks with obstacles, ramps and rails. They’re perfect if you want to impress your date while pretending to be an Olympic superstar.

The Arctic Blast Snow Tubing attraction is a separate thrill that can be found

12

Crescent Magazine l February 2010

Photo courtesy of Paoli Peaks

at the bottom of the 300-foot natural drop. For less than the price of a ski ticket, you can experience a 700-foot tubing lane extravaganza.

“It’s definitely better than sledding in the backyard,” said Vickie Lincks, Paoli Peaks marketing director.

Too cold to ski? Head up to the lodge that overlooks the slope and grab some pizza, burgers, hot chocolate and other snacks. There’s also a coffee shop and a fireplace. And for those over 21, you can warm up with you favorite drinks

down at Paoli’s separate bar.

If you’ve had a late night, grab some cheap comfort at Trailview Ski Lodge. Or if you want to check out the area, visit the French Lick Resort. Just nine miles down the road, it’s complete with a casino, a $17 million golf course, an indoor water park and dozens of other activities.

Who would think that ski slopes and tubing lanes would be so close to home?

“It’s like a test of character,” Cobar said, “seeing how your date will act when they fall all the time.” n

DON’T HAVE A DATE? SAB hosts its Paoli trip Feb. 12. For $10, reserve one of the 94 spots. If you miss the chance, ask to be put on the waiting list and hope someone backs out.

LATE NIGHT SPECIAL Experience a night-ride between 5 p.m. and 3 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays with Paoli’s special Twilight and Midnight Madness package. College nights are Thursdays. Be sure to keep an eye on the Paoli Peaks web site for special rates and group discounts.

LAYERS TO WEAR The best way to prepare is to layer up in a long-sleeved shirt, sweater and water-resistant jacket. Jeans are a big no-no.

Gloves, scarves and goggles are a good idea, and it’s better to layer so you can always peel things off. Most importantly — make sure your outer layer is water-resistant and pack a blanket for the ride home.

sexplanation

Your Cheatin’ Heart

by Josh Fletcher

Sex and emotional attention lead the way when one partner decides to cheat

I

nfidelity. It’s been happening since the beginning of time.

No matter how loving and committed many are to their relationship, people stray. About one in five people — 22 percent of the 70,000 respondents in a 2007 MSNBC/iVillage.com survey — admitted to cheating on their current partners.

The survey also confirmed an earlier look at infidelity where Adrian Blow, an assistant professor at Michigan State, found that 25 percent of people stray over the course of a relationship. Nearly half of respondents admitted to being unfaithful at some point in their lives.

The question remains: Why do people cheat? In his book “Infidelity: A Survival Guide,” therapist Don Lusterman found that women tend to seek different types of fulfillment when turning to someone other than their partner.

His research also shows that women are more likely to link sex with love and emotional connection, while men's involvements are more often primarily sexual.

The MSNBC/iVillage survey found that there is really no one type of cheater. But what constitutes cheating differs among the sexes. While most agree that physical contact is cheating, men and women are split on other types of behaviors.

A whopping 77 percent of women consider online sex talk or camming to be cheating, but only 57 percent of men do. And 73 percent of women label sending flirtatious e-mails as cheating, compared to 53 percent of men. Plus, it’s true — the most common cheating partners are friends (40 percent).

There are many things that lead to cheating. Here are a few.

BOREDOM Plain and simple: relationships can become dull. We have a tendency over time to take our partners for granted in those areas important in a relationship.

This doesn’t have anything to do with love, but that the passion may have fizzled.

Early in relationships, people date and get to know each other. But somehow through the months, years and Facebook official statuses, life turned into ordering from the McDonald’s dollar menu and renting a movie. The MSNBC/iVillage survey found that cheating tends to happen well into the relationship by men who are dissatisfied with their sex lives or with women who feel emotionally deprived.

THRILL The MSNBC/iVillage survey found that many thrive on the excitement they get from a fling (30 percent). Whether its prowling the Internet or sneaking around at night, some people feed on the adrenaline rush they get from cheating.

“The thrill of cheating is huge,” said UE counselor Karen Stenstrom, LCSW. “Some people get an adrenaline rush from skateboarding or hang gliding, but sneaking around is such a thrill. Its like shoplifting.”

SELF-ESTEEM How we feel about ourselves contributes to whether we go astray. Am I still attractive?

Does my partner find me interesting and fun to be with? Stenstrom said people measure their worth within the relationships they secure. She said over time, people, especially women, question whether or not they are still attractive and appealing.

Someone who finds us attractive and interesting can turn our heads. In fact, women's motives range from the need for more emotional attention (40 percent) to being reassured of their desirability (33 percent).

SEXUAL NEEDS University of Washington sociologist Pepper Schwartz, author of “Prime: Adventures and Advice About Sex and Love in the Sensuous Years,” thinks the very idea of monogamy explains why some stray. Biologically speaking, she said, human beings aren’t built for it.

One in five women who cheated said they were looking for more satisfying sex. And many men say this is the main reason they stray.

“Men are more likely to look for sexual novelty,” said Sandra Leiblum, director of the Center for Sexual and Relational Health at the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in Piscataway, N.J., “They might be looking for a sexual outlet without the expectation of a relationship.

Whether we are predisposed toward monogamy or not, the key here is that people have emotional needs. For many, sex is the way to meet those needs. With men, Schwartz said if they were just after sexual release, they could hire a prostitute or try a casual hookup, but most men don’t do this.

More likely it relates to the lack of intimacy and feelings of low worth and esteem, along with the need for more frequent sexual relations and exploration.

German psychologist Ragnar Beer, from the University of Goettingen, found that only 31 percent of wom-

en and 25 percent of men were able to discuss their intimate desires with their partner. And MSU’s Blow believes openness is vital. This inability to communicate is one of the main reasons people cheat.

“I think when you hide things, cannot talk about things, in relationships where lots of things are off the table, people become ripe for plucking,” he told MSNBC.com. n

Illustration by Courtney Hostetler

February 2010 l Crescent Magazine

13

hunks in trunks

14

Crescent Magazine l February 2010

PURPLE

W

hen deciding on what we could do to make our February issue special, the managing staff tossed around a zillion ideas; we threw out ideas from the mundane to the risque. What we came up with is thievery of the best kind since imitation is the best form of flattery.

A mix between Sport’s Illustrated’s annual Swimsuit Edition and People’s Sexiest Man Alive is the inspiration for our Hunks in Trunks issue. It aims to combine the best of both and provide readers with some warm thoughts during this chilly time.

We invited 30 men, including administrators and students alike, all the while keeping in mind and trying to equally represent the individuality and sexiness of UE’s men. Crescent Magazine thanks the 14 who stepped up, openly answering our personal and probing questions in addition to being brave enough to pose for our cameras.

While the guys might have been nervous at first, between the grass skirts and wakeboards, our models played the part and let loose. You’re about to learn who is addicted to lollipops, likes locking friends in bathrooms, lives on chocolate milk and gets a rush from physical challenges.

So kick back, relax and grab your favorite beverage as you discover the intimate details of our hunks, ranging from personal quirks to their tips on how to attain the perfect beach bod.

You’ll be able to feel the heat all month long. n

Photos by Sunny Johnson & Alaina Neal

February 2010 l Crescent Magazine

15

For Fall 2010 & Spring 2011

Harlaxton College

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Student-Alumni Mentoring Program 2009 – 2010

Mentor Speaker Luncheon Series Graduate School: Online vs. On Campus

Join us for a luncheon to hear UE alumni and PIEE Partners share their Career & Professional Experiences

Noon – 1 p.m. • February 18 • Eykamp 253, RUC Lunch will be provided with an RSVP by noon the Monday prior to the luncheon.

RSVP to da34@evansville.edu. If you have any questions regarding the Mentoring Program, please contact Career Services at x1083 or email lw8@evansville.edu

Harlaxton College Office•SB 261 www.harlaxton.ac.uk

www.ClubRoyaleNightClub.com • 401-1699 • 2131 W. Franklin

If it’s Friday at UE, then it’s Purple Friday.

Wear your best PURPLE every Friday!

You never know when the Purple Patrol will strike.

UE Alumni Association and Student Alumni Ambassadors

BRADLEY GANT ‘05 Physical Therapy Assistant St. Mary’s Medical Center

4

$

60oz Busch Light Pitchers Everyday!

Daily Drink Specials & Entertainment • Tuesday Night Is College Karaoke Night • Thursday is College Night with Live Acoustic Music

by John Hussmann

Mon. – Sat. Open at 3 p.m • MySpace.com/ClubRoyaleNightClub • Friend Us on Facebook

Jazz by Day... today’s best music Top New Hits Mon–Sat (6–9p) the other side Rock, Indie Sun–Tue (6–9p)

party lights Hip-Hop, R&B Thrs–Sat (9p–2a)

Exclusive Home for Aces Athletics 16

Crescent Magazine ● February 2010

hunks in trunks

kyle knust

CLASS OF 2009 • JASPER, IND. • CHEMISTRY

n Kyle has accomplished what many struggle to do in four years — graduate.

He graduated in December, and although he admits to being a huge procrastinator and often stays up later than he should, he managed to finish school a semester early and is now applying to graduate schools for analytical chemistry.

To many, he appears quiet and shy, but if you ask him about the St. Louis Cardinals or wakeboarding, he'll tell you anything you need to know. “I can’t live without baseball.” Wakeboarding on Beaver Lake with friends is another favorite pastime. The group created names for their signature moves, designed T-shirts and enjoy frying turkeys to chow down on after coming in off the lake. “We really like to grind, too. It’s like a club.” Kyle claims all anyone has to do to get a beach bod like his is to play a little Intramurals and listen to a lot of music while relaxing on the couch.

As an Orientation Leader, many may remember Kyle best from the Hanz and Franz skit he performed each year during SOAR. He still keeps close ties with his family, calling his parents his heroes. “They influenced my life so much. Without their help, there’s no way I would be here today.” Now that he’s graduated, he looks forward to someday taking the vacation of his dreams — a month long train trip through Europe.

But for now, he's settling for graduate school. n — Peter Hanscom

will watt

SOPHOMORE • ATLANTA, GA. • GRAPHIC DESIGN n Walking into a photo shoot is enough to make anyone a bit nervous. But with longboard in hand, Will jumped right in. He prides himself on being relaxed. “I am laid-back and interested in a lot of things.”

Will has a mysterious, quirky side, too. When asked what dessert he compares himself to, he chose apple pie. “You can slice it a bunch of different ways, and it’s always sweet and a little tangy, too.”

His personality lends itself to a love of the outdoors and an affinity for visual arts and film, a field he hopes to work in some day. To fulfill another dream, he would like to visit New Zealand to backpack and surf. He would also like to backpack through Europe again. Will took up longboarding, his newest passion, last summer, and he and his board have been inseparable ever since. If you run into him on campus, you’re likely to find it in tow.

Will's love for sports and outdoor activities keep him in top shape. It also doesn’t hurt that the only things he’s addicted to are sunflower seeds and lollipops. He puts his artistic abilities to personal use, too, designing the tattoo on his ribcage. But he doesn’t spend much time on the rest of his look. “I wake up five minutes before class and put on what is lying around.” n — Kristin Benzinger

February 2010 l Crescent Magazine

17

hunks in trunks

brian conner

CLASS OF 2002 • ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, RESIDENCE LIFE

n Posing Brian as a lifeguard is appropriate since almost everybody on campus knows him without realizing they do. He started at UE as a student in 1998 to study physical therapy, but found himself more interested in interacting with students. He was involved with Residence Life as a student and eventually became Powell Hall's head resident. It just seemed natural for him to stay following graduation when he was offered a full-time job.

“I just really liked working with students. My favorite thing about UE is the closeness that everybody shares. It’s really a family atmosphere.”

Family is important to Brian. He and his wife, Mandy, have two children, Jacob, 3, and Simon, 18 months. Another important thing is making a difference in other peoples’ lives. While he doesn’t have a single personal hero, he has great respect for those who have endured hardship and made the best out of it. “I really admire people who can overcome challenges and make other people’s lives better because of it.”

In his spare time, he likes to read, ride bikes and spend time outdoors with his family. “I don’t like to just sit and do nothing.” One of Brian’s personal philosophies is borrowed from workers at the Seattle fish market, who strive to have fun and enjoy everything they do. “There is a saying they have that I try to live by: ‘Choose your attitude, make their day, show up and play.’” n — Megan Merley

jeff bennett

GRADUATE STUDENT• BROWNSBURG, IND.• PHYSICAL THERAPY

n For Jeff, the best part about UE is none other than his Village residence, fondly called the Cougar House. While he may not have much experience with older women, the fantasy rarely escapes his mind. “It’s a nice thought. I like the name ‘cougars.’”

He might be on the hunt for a more mature mate, but Jeff admits he rarely acts his own age. In fact, if he had to choose a dessert to describe himself, he would use Little Debbie Christmas tree cakes. “I love them, and they share my affinity for Christmas.”

Or maybe those snowy snacks remind Jeff of his dream vacation — an Alaskan cruise. As an outdoorsy guy, he loves hiking and camping.

Deep-sea fishing and a trip to see the Northern Lights in Alaska are in his future plans. When he’s not planning his Alaskan getaway, Jeff keeps himself busy with his physical therapy studies, which is one of the reasons he chose UE to begin with. This semester is split between doing his clinicals in Arizona and Florida, and graduation in May. Until then, Jeff plans on eating the one thing he can’t live without — breakfast corn dogs. But if you want to get a beach bod like Jeff’s, he suggests a pretty laid back routine. “Wake up. Do absolutely nothing with your day. Lay on the couch a lot. Don’t work out.”

It sounds like Jeff has just the recipe to keep those cougars on the hunt. n — Lauren Oliver

18

Crescent Magazine l February 2010

ALL May Graduates Should Attend

Commencement Central at the Bookstore

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

TuesDay, Feb. 23 Wednesday, Feb. 24 Don’t Forget to Meet with: Alumni Office • Career Planning,

Student-Alumni Mentoring Program 2009 – 2010

Mentor Speaker Luncheon Series

Transition from Student to Professional

LaToya Smith ‘09

Coordinator of Diversity and Outreach Initiatives University of Evansville

Join us for a luncheon to hear UE alumni and PIEE Partners share their Career & Professional Experiences

Noon – 1 p.m. • March 18 Eykamp 253, RUC Lunch will be provided with an RSVP by noon the Monday prior to the luncheon.

RSVP to da34@evansville.edu. If you have any questions regarding the Mentoring Program, please contact Career Services at x1083 or email lw8@evansville.edu February 2010 ● Crescent Magazine

19

T R E A S U R E T R A D

I

Every year on Founders Day, the Alumni Association recognizes alumni for their continuing commitment to the University of Evansville.

&

T

I

O N S

e t a r eleb

the Founding of

Congratulations to this year’s honorees:

C

Distinguished Alumna Award – Rose Mays ’67, who along with her husband established UE’s William G. and Rose M. Mays Martin Luther King Lectureship.

February 10, 1854

Samuel Orr Honorary Alumnus Award – Richard Eykamp, who along with his wife are the University benefactors for whom Eykamp Hall in Ridgway University Center is named.

Edie Bates Volunteer Service Award – Tom Southwood ’81, who has extended his service to the University in many ways since graduation, among other things as a member of the President’s Club Executive Committee and the Evansville Regional U•Envision 2010 Committee.

Young Alumnus Award – Len Devaisher ’98, who was named Outstanding Senior Male the year he graduated and was a National Merit Scholar. He is beginning a career transition from banking to Chief Operating Officer of Young Life Africa.

UE !

The University’s founders filed a certificate of incorporation with the State of Indiana establishing Moores Hill Male and Female Collegiate Institute.

The name was shortened to Moores Hill College.

February 17, 1919 The school was chartered as Evansville College and the move to Evansville began.

February 17, 1967 With the signature of the Governor on this date, the name of the institution was changed to the University of Evansville.

Upcoming Events to Remember UE Birthday Party • Feb. 12 Founders Day Convocation and Awards Luncheon • Feb. 14 University Vespers • Feb. 21

● February 2010 Alumni Association • www.evansville.edu/alumni 20 Crescent Magazine University of Evansville

hunks in trunks

ally mackay

CLASS OF 2009 • STORNOWAY, ISLE OF LEWIS, SCOTLAND • EXERCISE SCIENCE n Ally ���������������������������������������������������������� was hard to miss on campus before he graduated in De� cember. A member of the men’s soccer team, staying in shape remains an everyday part of his life. Ally’s fitness regimen includes lots of squats, abdominal workouts, bench presses and cardio exercises. “Watch your diet and alcohol intake, and try to work as many different parts of your body as you can.”

Ally has spent countless hours traveling with his teammates, and while he admits that many of his memories of UE are “R-rated,” he laughed when remembering the tamer pranks pulled on teammates. “Guys tend to get locked in the bath� room on the bus for long amounts of time.”

While soccer is his passion, Ally’s friends and family are also an important part of his life. Even the tattoo of an angel on his right arm he had done while visiting Florida with his brother was meant to remind him of home. His hero turns out to be his mom. “Because she has had to put up with me for 23 years.”

His most precious item is his laptop, and he is fearful some� thing might sideline it. “It’d be catastrophe central if some� thing happened to it.”

Though he missed everyone back home, Ally said the people he met in the United States have made his UE experi� ence even more worthwhile. And with his laidback attitude and commitment to friends and family, Ally’s dream vacation comes as no surprise.

“Taking all my family and friends to a secret resort with all the alcohol we can drink. It’d have to be some secret island in the middle of the Caribbean.”

After graduation, Ally headed back to Scotland for a while to catch up with friends and family — and finally have a proper conversation in Gaelic — one that doesn’t only con� sist of curse words. n — Whitney Cohen

February 2010 l Crescent Magazine

21

hunks in trunks

jeff chestnut

DIRECTOR, FITNESS CENTER

n With a love of barbeque potato chips and working out daily, this fitness fanatic doesn’t seem to be running out of steam anytime soon.

Jeff might technically be the “old man of the bunch” of Crescent Magazine’s purple heartthrobs, but he certainly gave all those 20-something college kids a run for their money. Jeff is more in shape today than most of them have ever been.

In fact, he is a former college football player, playing at Indiana State, and was even on the television show “American Gladiator” years ago when he was a younger man.

That’s right, “American Gladiator.”

tim cleaver

SENIOR • GRANGER, IND. • SOCIOLOGY

n Like his hero Spiderman, Tim finds inspiration in the quote: “With great power comes great responsibility.” Even though he can’t shoot spider webs from his wrist or swing from buildings like he wants to, his greatest passion is helping others.

“People don’t believe I was an engineering major, but I hated calculus, and I didn’t want to be doing math all my life.”

Now his dream job is to work for a religious-based social service agency. “That way my morals are not conflicted with what I have to do as a social worker.” His moral code comes from a traditional upbringing in the Catholic school system. “I never went to a public school. I use that all the time when I play ‘Never Have I Ever’.”

He admits it has caused him to be narrow-minded at times, but coming to UE has made him more aware and accepting. “It doesn’t matter if you’re Protestant or atheist, it’s the person that’s important.”

His Phi Kappa Tau brothers say Cleaver is too serious, but he claims he is an extrovert trapped in an introvert’s body. “A lot of people have come to realize I have a crazy side. I’m like Jell-O because I’m always a good time.”

Tim's other activities involve puddle jumping, playing volleyball and the one thing he can’t live without: listening to music. He often jams out to the Dave Matthews Band, Black Eyed Peas and Coldplay, but only in the privacy of his shower or car. “I’ll sing if I know nobody is listening.” n — Rachel Solava

22

Crescent Magazine l February 2010

“I used to always tell my wife, ‘I can do that,’ and then one day they had tryouts in Evansville. Being

Resident Students Association

on the show was a blast, but it still gets to me sometimes because I was only one point away from being in the finals. One point!”

Regardless of his intimidating muscles, Jeff is genuinely one of those really nice guys.

He and his wife, Shari, have been married 17 years and are the parents of two teenage sons, Jalen, 16, and Jared, 14. With a huge grin and an easygoing air, Jeff makes you feel comfortable quickly and loves helping students share his passion, which is all things physical fitness.

Jeff said he has been into sports and exercise ever since he was in elementary school, and that love carried over into college and beyond.

Winter Whispers: presents

A Stroll in Central Park

8–11 p.m. • Feb. 27 • Grabill Lounge

He believes exercise can be more than just a typical workout, and playing sports — whether they are on the intramural field or just a spontaneous game of racquet ball — can be a better way to keep fit.

“Staying involved is a great way to stay in shape.”

And Jeff has been helping students stay involved ever since the Fitness Center was completed in 1991, when he was hired as assistant fitness director after working for a number of years in the receiving department.

Actually, this month will mark Jeff’s 20th year with UE, longer than half of the student body has been alive. But don’t think he hasn’t gotten bored with the job.

“With my job, it is always something different happening. But we also have our traditions, like Bike Race. It’s a cycle, and I love it.” ■ — Jennifer Stinnett February 2010 ● Crescent Magazine

23

hunks in trunks

alex thompson

SENIOR • PAWNEE, ILL. • ARCHAEOLOGY, BIBLICAL STUDIES & CLASSICAL LANGUAGES n “I don’t smile well. My mom always used to yell at me for fake-smiling, so I don’t smile.” For anyone who knows Alex, this is hard to believe.

Though most people first notice his curly hair, they quickly pick up on his love of sarcasm, and his lighthearted approach to life.

When asked what kind of dessert described him best. “I’m like an apple pie because I’m warm on the inside and cool on the outside,” Alex laughed. “That’s the kind of answer you’re looking for, right?”

brandon spotanski

SENIOR • MOUNT VERNON, ILL. • HISTORY

Alex has many interests. Not only is he a triple major, he is also an Eagle Scout, a second-degree black belt and a certified scuba diver. He solves

n Towering over most students, Brandon may look intimidating, but in reality,

Rubik’s Cubes for fun, and dreams of

he is one of the nicest guys you could meet. “I guess people are scared

one day kayaking across Alaska. “I

because I am tall.”

think it’s better to know a little about a

In fact, Brandon is something of a softie at heart. His dream vacation would be a return trip to Salzburg, Austria, for its scenery. “Illinois is flat, so I am a sucker for landscape.” Harlaxton was an important experience for “Spot.”

lot of different things than a lot about just one thing.”

He worked in Washington, D.C.,

Not only was it one of the reasons he chose UE, but he also had some of his

last summer and he doesn’t know

craziest college moments there. Studying abroad made him realize how

where this summer will take him. This

much he enjoys traveling. “Once you’ve been there, you will understand.”

tendency to roam gives his parents

Brandon has a love for the simple things in life. One factor that drove him

some cause for alarm, though not

toward joining Sigma Alpha Epsilon was the house's bathrooms. Knowing he

much. He seems to have a good

was guaranteed a clean one put him at ease. “[The rooms] are suite-style,

enough head on his shoulders to

and I get my own bathroom. Going into your shower barefoot is a good

maintain his majors and his other

thing.”

obligations, which include plans for

He definitely has a sensitive side. He enjoys writing poetry and spending

grad school or seminary after college.

time with his girlfriend. His friends and family are also priority for him. He even

Alex’s real passion lies in his faith.

considers his nephew as his hero. “He beat cancer when he was 9 years old.

When asked about his personal hero,

I couldn’t imagine going through that when I was 9.”

he said, “I like Jesus a whole lot. He

After he graduates, Brandon wants to dive right back into college to

really defines everything for me — but

finish up his teaching degree. He believes readers can attain his beach bod

that would be cliche. There is a man,

easily. “Don’t exercise — except for a pick-up game of basketball — eat

N.T. Wright, a scholar of the Bible that

pizza from Shell and drink a half-gallon of chocolate milk everyday.” And his

I really respect. I tracked him down

beauty routine? “The hair works itself. I roll out of bed, basically.” n — Kristin

while I was at Harlaxton just so I could

Benzinger

shake his hand.”

24

Crescent Magazine l February 2010

Other postgraduation ambitions include starting a band with his best friend. Music is admittedly one thing Alex cannot live without. He enjoys listening to all genres, but really loves good old rock 'n' roll and country star Taylor Swift.

With music, hobbies and even more education on the horizon, you’d think Alex would have enough to occupy his time, but you’d be wrong. “I want to go to Turkey, and I want to hang glide. I don’t know; I don’t really think about things I want to do. I just do them.” n — Megan Merley

matt williams

FRESHMAN • BRIDGEPORT, ILL. • PRE-DENTISTRY/BIOLOGY n For Matt, a cruise to the Bahamas, lying on the beach and snorkeling with dolphins could be just the trick to escape the Evansville winter blues. Until coming to UE, he grew up fighting for bathroom time with five older sisters and one younger brother. Both his mother and two of his sisters attended UE, so he knew he could begin his college career here. “I needed a good school to get me into the next level, and I knew UE could do that for me.”

With the goal of becoming an orthodontist, he’s only just beginning school. He said dentistry isn’t just about regular cleanings and braces. “I like smiles. When someone has a nice smile, you’re attracted to it. I want to help people get to that. And I like teeth.”

It’s obvious he cares about his future patients, and if you’re around Matt for even a minute, you can tell he’ll be good at his job. His warm, open personality automatically makes everyone smile a little bigger.

He’s passionate about meeting and learning about new people through simple interaction, even though it may not always work to his advantage. “I tend to talk a lot, which can get on people’s nerves.”

Matt plans to put his conversational skills to good use one day when he travels to Europe. Exploring the history in and around England has been one of his lifelong dreams. But history isn’t the only thing he loves about Europe. “I love the Brits. If I could have any accent, that’d be it.”

During those times when Matt doesn’t crave human interaction, he relaxes with the one thing he could never live without — music. As an alternative rock fan, his favorites include Paramore and The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus. So next time you’re stressed and looking for a mood-lifter, find Matt. He’s sure to have a smile on his face that will put one on yours. n — Lauren Oliver February 2010 l Crescent Magazine

25

hunks in trunks

kyle affoon

SENIOR • TRINIDAD & TOBAGO • HEALTH SERVICES ADMINISTRATION n Kyle has the whole world in his hands. “I’m the definition of a global map. I have so many different races in me.” Even more diverse than the typical international student, Kyle has a heritage infused with more than seven different cultures. He enjoys his role with the International Club and said he is thankful for the way UE integrates internationals into all aspects of campus life. As an International Orientation Leader, he has helped play a part in this process. “I’m a natural English speaker, so it makes it easier for me to adopt to both sides.” He believes he’s comparable to a slice of cheesecake because of his adaptability. “Who doesn’t like cheesecake? If you try me, you will get to like me.”

Kyle has big dreams, but he doesn’t let the size of those dreams hold him back. After graduation, he plans to earn a doctorate and travel the world for comparative healthcare studies. He has also accomplished a lot in his time at UE outside of academics, including an embarrassing incident after Bike Race his freshman year. After a day of fun, his resident assistant found him asleep on the bathroom floor. “Hmm, what haven’t I done?” he said when thinking back on the years.

During his first three years, he was a member of the swim team, but quit last season because of injuries. Lately, Kyle has traded in the early workouts associated with morning practices for a much more relaxed fitness approach. “Basically, don’t do what I do, because I do absolutely nothing right now.” n — Peter Hanscom

morgan mahl

SENIOR • NORTH VERNON, IND. • PSYCHOLOGY

1,300-pound wagon of death.”

Instead of spending time behind the wheel, he devotes his time to the screen. “Video games are

n Morgan is overcoming one fear at a time.

my guilty pleasure, which explains the moonlight

Showing off his chest to strangers? Check.

pallor.” His other passion is for animals, which

“I was terrified about the photo shoot

becomes clear after counting his pets: seven dogs,

because I’m kind of body-conscious.”

a cockatiel, three cats, some fish, a ball python

Morgan intends to save a copy to show his parents, knowing they will be proud he conquered a fear. “Hopefully there will be airbrushing in the magazine. I want cute women to see this; [those] who like pasty white men.”

Other fears on Morgan’s

and a rescued African desert tortoise named Quentin Terrapino. “When I was a kid, I wanted to be a vet. Then I wanted to be Steve Irwin.”

He is still figuring out a career path, but Morgan knows he wants to travel. “My dream vacation would be hiking in the mountains of Russia. There is a lot of history there, and I’m sort of a history buff.”

Morgan does admit he’s a complex guy,

list include flying and driving.

though. When asked to choose a dessert which

He has never been in a plane,

best describes him, black forest cherry cake, a

and even though he is 22, he

German dessert, immediately came to mind.

doesn’t have a driver’s license.

It not only reflects his heritage, but mirrors

“I have a permit, but I’ve never

his personality as well. “It has layers, and

gone through the test. I know how to drive,

small unpredictable chunks of cherry that

I just don’t like to. I’m afraid of driving a

culminate into a bittersweet symphony.” n

26

— Rachel Solava Crescent Magazine l February 2010

duong pham

SENIOR • HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM • COMPUTER SCIENCE n Don’t let this computer science major fool you — Duong, known to most as D.P., is more than your typical computer lab rat. Life at an American college goes at a faster pace than in his hometown.

“I get up, put on my clothes and run to class,” he said of the daily challenge of making it to his 8 a.m. class.

As for most seniors, free time is pretty much nonexistent for D.P. But when he has spare time, he loves to play “Devil May Cry,” a video game he firmly believes is the best game ever invented. “I’m passionate about computers and technology. I can’t live without my laptop. I can’t be disconnected from school, social networking, gaming or programming.”

To stay active and escape the cyber-world, D.P. plays sports at the Fitness Center. He plays basketball to stay fit and does pull-ups to work his upper body. But he still takes the time to indulge in his favorite sweet treats.

If he had to choose a dessert to describe himself, D.P. thinks a fortune cookie fits his personality well. “You never know what you’re getting.”

He is also a huge fan of action movies, admitting that his biggest movie heroes are Arnold Schwarzenegger and martial arts legend Bruce Lee. D.P. has some definite action skills of his own. He learned how to do back flips last year when he was on the cheer team. He even once punched a huge hole in a wall. But later the same night, he got knocked out in a boxing match. “I don’t plan for anything. I kind of take everything as it comes.”

But, just in case, he wears a necklace he bought while travelling in Hong Kong. “The necklace was said to have the power of Buddha to protect me from evil spirits, or something like that.”

Be sure to say “hello” when you see him on campus — just don’t sneak up behind him or you might get a taste of a few Bruce Lee-inspired moves. n — Whitney Cohen

February 2010 l Crescent Magazine

27

hunks in trunks

kasey esser

JUNIOR• MALWIN, MO.• EXERCISE SCIENCE

n If Kasey had to describe himself to someone, he would say he’s easygoing, confident, likeable, hardcore and a Christian.

But he failed to mention one thing: he’s built. Kasey has been working toward his status as a bodybuilder since high school graduation. “When it was all said and done senior year, I wanted to get huge.”

And that he did. In March, Kasey will compete in the Mr. Southern Indiana regional bodybuilding competition. His commitment to bodybuilding has changed more than his physique.“My personality in high school and now is completely different, and I attribute that to bodybuilding. It’s so much more than just improving your physical appearance.”

Kasey’s passion led him to a job as UE's assistant strength and conditioning coach, which might help him with his goal of becoming a personal trainer. Upon graduation, his plans include moving to Los Angeles to work at The Sports Club before opening up his own personal training business. Once that dream is fulfilled, he wants give acting a try, following in the footsteps of his hero — Arnold Schwarzenegger. “All the odds were against him. His story is phenomenal; I learn a lot from him.”

When he’s not in the gym, Kasey can be found at Sigma Alpha Epsilon. But he is far from the stereotypical fraternity guy. “People consider me to be pretty masculine, but I like to write. Journaling helps me keep my thoughts straight and express them in the right way.”

If you want to get a beach bod like Kasey's, he suggests following a consistent diet and working out five days per week. For him, it all comes down to discipline — and chocolate milk. n — Lauren Oliver

Where the Fun’s At! February Events: Speed Dating Feb. 8 • 7 p.m. • Eykamp 253, 254 & 255

Valentine’s Bingo Feb. 9 • 7 p.m. • Eykamp 252

Comedian Jarrod Harris Feb. 10 • 9 p.m.

Paoli Peaks Ski Trip

ke

ma

ort

r you

sp pas

t

n! o fu

Feb. 12 • Leaving at 5 p.m.

Battle of the Bands/MCs Feb. 26 • 7 p.m. • Carson Center Gym

Sneak Peek into March!

Comedian Mike Winfield• March 2 • 9pm

Finding that dream job takes some planning...

Get our DRIFT?

See Career Services before you graduate Ridgway University Center, Second Floor • 488–1083 • career@evansville.edu • http://careerservices.evansville.edu February 2010 ● Crescent Magazine

29

off the wall

OF THE

DRINK MONTH

Pink Raspberry

Margarita

While this may be seen as a summertime drink and it really doesn’t resemble a margarita at all, it’s just the right shade of red for Valentine’s Day. The flavor is the perfect blend of prickly pear, almond, raspberry and cream that features the sweetness of Voodoo Tiki Desert Rose Tequila, a prickly pear-infused spirit. The Pink Raspberry Margarita is equally great when served straight up, on the rocks or blended.

INGREDIENTS

1 oz. Voodoo Tiki Desert Rose Tequila 1 oz. Tequila Rose 1/2 oz. Creme de noyaux, an

almond-flavored pink crème liqueur 1/2 oz. Chambord 2 1/2 oz Cream Dash of grenadine Sugar for rimming the glass Fresh raspberries for garnish

Rim a chilled margarita glass with sugar. Pour the ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice, and shake well before straining into the prepared glass. You can also garnish with a cherry or a lemon twist.

‘90s Songs

We’re Still Singing

CAMPUS >>COMMENT:

What’s your most memorable Valentine’s Day?

“My mother being my Valentine.”

BEN DEUTSCH

[ sophomore ]

“I got my first kiss, but he got so nervous that he ran away and I didn’t see him for two days.”

KATE BOSOMWORTH

[ freshman ]

“Senior year of high school. I almost bit my tongue off in basketball practice right before a date.”

MATT MUELLER

[ sophomore ]

WORD OF THE MONTH... goophaagg “I hope I get at least one goophaagg this year for Valentine’s Day.”

“MMMBop” — Middle of Nowhere, Hanson “C’est La Vie” — B*Witched, B*Witched “Baby One More Time” — Baby One More Time, Britney Spears “Wannabe” — Spice, Spice Girls “Tubthumping” — Tubthumper, Chumbawamba “Barbie Girl” — Aquarium, Aqua “I Want it That Way” — Millennium, Backstreet Boys “Bye Bye Bye” — No Strings Attached, ‘N SYNC “Summer Girls” — LFO, LFO “Genie in a Bottle” — Christina Aguilera, Christina Aguilera

30

Crescent Magazine l February 2010

“When my boyfriend sent me roses while I was in Harlaxton.”

MELISSA TRUEX

[ junior ]

“When my third grade crush gave me a Valentine’s Day card.”

GEORGE WOODARD

[ freshman ]

“Last Valentine’s Day, when I was proposed to.”

MARIKA MORRET

5

AND A

half

THERESA TUTTLE

[ junior ]

WORD STREET ON THE

Even with all the love in the air, it may just be the perfect time to break up with that special someone. You could take the respectable route and have a heart-to-heart conversation — ending the relationship on a good note — but where’s the fun in that? Why not make it the most humiliating, horrible (albeit funny) moment of their life by choosing one of these classless routes?

1

2

4 5

3

[ senior ]

“Oh God, my ex-boyfriend had really cold hands. So I gave him gloves.”

Worst Ways to Breakup

“

1 2

Send a Text Message: Even better, send it in text language — “itz ovr.”

Change Your Facebook Status: Let everyone see your dirty laundry on your ex’s newsfeed.

“It’s Not Me, It’s You”: No, it’s not a typo. This is your fault.

Change your Sexual Orientation: They can’t argue with that, can they?

Have Someone Else Do It: Nothing is more awkward than having a third party break your significant other’s heart.

Kill the Love Fern: The love dies when the fern does.

”

“You’ve gotta risk it to get the biscuit.”

— Robert Dion, associate professor of political science

The cast of Jersey Shore is coming to campus…

Who WE Want to See Perform during Halftime at the Super Bowl: ❚ Aces Brass — How cool would that be? ❚ Andy Samberg — As long as he wears his flippy floppies. ❚ Justin Timberlake/Janet Jackson — We could only hope for a more scandalous “wardrobe malfunction.” ❚ Michael Jackson — Umm…too soon? ❚ Hanson — These guys are actually still on tour.

❚ Lou Bega — Maybe he could sing his latest hit, Mambo No. 6. ❚ Afroman — If he could remember to come. ❚ New Kids on the Block — They had a bunch of hits…in 1996. ❚ Taylor Swift — This way we would get to see Kanye West, too. ❚ William Hung — Because we want him to prove it.

t o m o r r o w

February 2010 ● Crescent Magazine

31

wildcard

Cool

Beans

COFFEE ON THE ROCKS

PICK YOUR POISON

Feeling risky? Stir up some controversy the next time you’re out on the town and try a mocha on the rocks.

Coffee is cooling down from the traditional cup and saucer to a more modern frozen beverage.

Many specialty drinks can be mixed with crushed ice to appease the cold-hearted.

Straight Black Coffee — 266 mg caffeine (1 cup) For the purists. Some non-traditional drinkers mix with raspberry, cherry or caramel flavor blends to add taste to their cup of joe.

“Sometimes it takes too long to mess with sugar packets and creamer,” freshman Megan Tucker said, “which is why I drink it straight.”

Espresso — 800 mg caffeine (1 cup), equivalent to 75 mg per shot A quick pick-me-up that comes in single, double and triple shots, and it works great as a mixer. Espresso is the best way to put that zing back in the morning. Some prefer an Americano, an espresso diluted with water or black coffee. Shots of espresso are added to most specialty drinks to get a high caffeine concentration.

TEA

Tea is a common substitute for those who don’t enjoy the nutty aftertaste of coffee. It is also revered for its health benefits and effects. Most teas have caffeine, and you can drink it sweetened or plain.

Black Tea — 75 mg caffeine (1 cup) With more caffeine than other teas, this is America’s most consumed drink, besides water.

White Tea — 15 mg caffeine (1 cup) Soft, sweet and delicate. This fluoride-containing tea is good for your teeth.

Green Tea — 20 mg caffeine (1 cup) With antioxidants, this tea helps build the immune system.

Oolong — 50 mg caffeine (1 cup) Often known as brown tea, oolong stems from the east.

Herbal — Caffeine content varies Not technically tea. It’s brewed from plants, roots and flowers instead of tea leaves.

32

by Brennan Girdler & Amanda Squire

Crescent Magazine ● February 2010

Latte — 150 mg caffeine (1 cup) A latte contains steamed milk blended with espresso shots.

This specialty coffee infuses taste, caffeine and class. Some people may prefer a cappuccino, essentially a latte with extra foam. Caution: may leave a foamy mustache.

Mocha — 110 mg caffeine (1 cup) This drink is like a latte jam-packed with joy. You can get it white, dark or swirled to taste the best of both worlds. This caffeinated and chocolaty coffee is the perfect way to get moving in the mornings and satisfy that sweet tooth.

CAFFEINE AND CRASHING

Good till the last drop, coffee and tea are both healthier alternatives to soda and energy drinks.

Coffee contains more caffeine than most single cans of soda. Students claim a double shot of espresso has more kick than a Red Bull, and it won’t produce the crashing effect that energy drinks are notorious for.

C Embracing an addiction to beans

offee chemist, senior Frank Blubaugh, straddles a fine line between hobby and obsession when it comes to coffee. His coffee-consuming friends fuel his addiction, and their experimentation was the gateway that promoted him from novice sipper to avid gulper.

“I tried it myself,” he said, “and now I’m hooked.”

Armed with his own AeroPress Coffee & Espresso Maker, Blubaugh roasts his own beans three to four times a week in his Ramona apartment.

His only worry is about blowing a fuse in his room.

At about $10 a roast, he claims to spend less money brewing his own than he would buying beans or grounds elsewhere.

And when it comes to beans, Blubaugh knows best. The species of bean has a lot to do with flavoring and caffeine content, he said.

“Beans will taste differently depending on what country they’re from,” Blubaugh explained. “African coffee beans are the best to me.”

Quality of taste has a lot to do with where the beans were grown, how well they were cared for and the roasting process. When roasted above 450 degrees, the distinguishing tastes and smells of the beans may be burned out.

“When you think of what coffee smells like, that’s how it should taste,” he said.

Espresso beans are more robust than other beans because they have more caffeine than other, more delicate flavored coffees.

Blubaugh points out that espresso isn’t pronounced “ex-presso,” but “es-presso.” As a bean connoisseur, he has many pet peeves when it comes to coffee. This common mistake is just one of them.

He believes good coffee shouldn’t be flavored. He has a personal vendetta against mochas and lattes, and said most ingredients in coffee are only used to cover up nasty flavorings of cheap, poorly roasted beans.

But don’t let his expertise intimidate you because he isn’t your typical coffee-drinking snob. Blubaugh doesn’t fit the beret-wearing, poetry-reading stereotype, and swears he only goes to Jazzman’s as a last resort.

Blubaugh uses roasters and grinders instead of Bunsen burners and beakers. By roasting his own beans, he surpasses the expectations of many coffee enthusiasts in dedication and conviction.

“I’m an addict,” Blubaugh admits. “I spend too much time with coffee.” n

JANKY: Smoking meth — What isn’t janky about meth?

JUICY: Hookah bars — Check out Evansville’s newest hot spot.

••• JANKY: Granny panties —

Coffee

He’ll definitely know it’s laundry day.

JUICY: Edible underwear — Now made for him and her.

••• JANKY: Stale Halloween candy — Don’t think she won’t figure out that your Valentine’s gift was bought in October.

JUICY: Monogrammed candy — Just make sure you get the right initials.

••• JANKY: MapQuest directions — Reading these might be more dangerous than texting and driving.

JUICY: Sexy GPS voices — These road assistants might have you wishing you were sexting while driving.

••• JANKY: Crocs with fur — Sometimes comfort isn’t cute. That’s double janky.

JUICY: Boots with fur — Pairs perfectly with Apple Bottoms jeans.

••• JANKY: Trash ‘Stache — Is shaving that tiny region really that difficult?

JUICY: Five o’clock Shadow — A little scruff goes a long way.

health & fitness

by Alex Jackson & Lauren Williams

Tanning: The

UGLY Truth

That itsy-bitsy, teeny-weeny, yellow polka-dot bikini definitely shows some skin. With tanning season right around the corner, it’s time to retire the winter coat and get ready for Spring Break and beach attire.

BED TANNING

No one wants to look like Elmer’s Glue, but is being bronzed worth the health risk? Skin cancer is becoming more and more prevalent among college students.

While tanning beds may give you the quick results, the long terms effects aren’t worth it. Tanning beds can remove vitamins and minerals from your body while increasing your risk of skin cancer. If you still want to use a tanning bed after hearing the risks, try these safety tips.

1. Always use tanning lotion before lying in the bed.

2. Be sure to use after-shower lotion, but stay away

from scented lotions because they can strip your tan.

3. Limit your tanning trips — both time in the bed and

frequency of visits.

SUNLESS (SPRAY ON) TANNING

If you’re looking for a golden glow and don’t mind standing instead of lying down, sunless tanning may be for you. Both VersaSpa and Mystic Tan can give you the shimmer you want without those unwanted wrinkles.

While standing naked in a booth might not be appealing, it can ultimately save your skin from those unforgiving UV rays. So here’s your dilemma: Versa or Mystic? Here is the breakdown.

Mystic Tan lasts for four to six days while VersaSpa lasts for five to seven.

VersaSpa costs $34 at Sun Tan City, but Mystic Tan will only put you out $14.95 at Solaris Tan.

LOTION/BRONZERS

If money is a problem, lotions and bronzers may be your answer. They can give you a quick fix before an evening out. Although they are safe and cheap alternatives, they might not give you the most ideal look. Depending on the brand, gradual tanners can leave you with an unwanted orange tint. But with the recent increase in popularity of self-tanners, the quality of products has improved. They can be purchased from drug stores to department stores starting at $4.95 with more expensive brands reaching more than $100. n

34

Crescent Magazine l February 2010

Holiday Donation

OPERATION: WINNER: Fiji Congratulations to AOPi for getting 2nd Place!

Thanks to all those who participated!

Give Crescent Magazine a try...

FREE

Delivery to UE’s Campus!

1924 E. Morgan Ave. • Evansville, IN 47711 • 425–4422

Sick of all the

REGULAR CUISINE? Get some pizza and

BREAK THE ROUTINE!

ask about our college discounts!

701n. burkhardt • in front of sam’s club

812-402-8454

Tonight’s the Night!

1618 S. Kentucky Ave. • 422–7782

Wings • Rocabolis • Appetizers • Full-Service Bar

PIZZERY & BREWERY

the competition did!

FREE Internet Ad with every Print Ad purchased! crescentadvertising@evansville.edu • 488–2221/2223 • uecrescentmagazine.com February 2010 ■ Crescent Magazine

35

fashion & beauty

the perfect fit

Small on the Top Women should have no problem feeling good about themselves, no matter their bust size. If you love ruffles, you will love some of this year’s styles. Cindy Alpers, president of Tropi-Ties, Inc., one of the original online swimwear retailers, recommends looking for tops with padding or a demi-style underwire.

Pink Xanthium Maaji Swimwear tropi-ties.com $99

Big on the Top For those with larger busts, underwire works well and looks great. For extra lift, halter-top and tankinis offer support. Look for styles that have bands around the midriff and can be tied in back or around the neck. If one-piece suits are more your style, look for structure in the bust, wide shoulder straps and straight-cut styles to accentuate and hug your curves. Ordering the top and bottom separately so that each piece fits you perHalter Top with Bottom fectly allows you to accent your assets withBody by Victoria victoriassecret.com out looking tacky, Alpers advises. $28 each

Short and Sassy The key, Alpers said, is to play up your figure by making your legs seem longer. Achieve this by finding a suit that is cut high on the thigh. Avoid boy shorts because they draw the eyes downward, making you look shorter. Another way to add length is to wear a solid bottom with a printed top. This draws the eyes upward, giving you a longer look. Plunging necklines on one-pieces also create a long, lean appearance.

Long and Lovely For the taller woman, play with accents like jewels around the bust and hips. Swimsuits with rings, ties and bows are made for you. Alpers suggests wearing textured fabrics. Bright colors are also a fun choice. Boy shorts and ruffle skirts are great for slim hips, but avoid vertical stripes and high necklines — they’ll make you appear too long, Alpers warns. n Monokini Very Sexy victoriassecret.com $88

36

Crescent Magazine l February 2010

letting her

With sunglasses and rain boots, this fashion guru splashes into spring

true colors show

W

ith the beginning of February, life appears again on campus as students realize Spring Break is closer than ever.

New fashions are beginning to pop out of winter’s aftermath, and students are trading in their muted browns and blacks for bright pinks and yellows. No student blooms brighter than sophomore Alyssa Kereki, who brings a new spin to spring wear.

“Bright, random and shiny,” she said. “Those are my three (spring fashion) words.”

Hair accessories, like flowers and berets, are one of Kereki’s favorite spring trends. “I’m a big fan of sunglasses too,” she said.

“Sometimes, I’m too lazy to do my hair in the morning, and — whether it’s wet or dry — sunglasses can pull it back.” Sunglasses have become an essential fashion accessory. If you’re short on cash, knockoff designer sunglasses are easy to come by.

From head-to-toe, Kereki has a take on every fashion accessory, including shoes. “Shoes should be my weakness,” she admits, “but I’m in denial.”

At UE, spring requires one type of footwear: rain boots. “I love rain boots,” Kereki said. “I really enjoy coordinating my outfits with them.”

Aside from the wet weather, spring brings two important words to mind: Spring Break — complete with swimsuits of every size and color.

With so many options, how do you know which one to choose?

“I think that tankinis are really fun,” Kereki said. “My only advice is to find a swimsuit that fits you and your personality, not everyone else’s.”

Kereki said if there’s one suit to stay away from this swimsuit season, it’s one

Photo by Alaina Neal

A flattering suit is waiting for you. All you have to learn is that every body is different. Stores locally and online offer swimsuits that will fit your style, and include this year’s most popular colors — hot pink, purple, dark blue, brown and green. Finding a perfect suit should be as easy as passing up that pie after dinner.

by Mindy Kurtz

crescent crossword with cutouts. “I’m sorry, but nobody looks good in one of those,” she said. “It doesn’t matter what body type you have; that swimsuit will find a way to make you look chubby or awkward.”

What really makes an outfit is Kereki’s simple rule: Buy what fits. In other words, don’t buy jeans you can’t put on without straining the zipper. A comfortable size 6 always wins over a tight size 4.

“If women bought what fit them comfortably and flattered them without worrying about size, a whole lot more women would want to go shopping,” Kereki said.

“People spend money on clothes just because it’s what’s ‘in’ and not because it fits them well. When you do that, you end up with an entire closet full of clothes that don’t fit you well, and you don’t really like to wear.”

If you’re unsure about what to buy or where to shop, take a friend with you. “But make sure they’re someone honest,” Kereki said. “I’d much rather be told I don’t look good in something before I spend my money on it and be lied to.”

When it comes to buying new clothes, basic is best. Buying solid, practical pieces will give you the ability to mix-and-match to create a new outfit every day.

What’s the most important rule of all?

Stay true to yourself.

“Alyssa is a bubble vortex,” sophomore Tiffany Duncan said. “Her personality is very bubbly and this creates a huge vortex that draws people to her. Looking at her just makes you happy.”

Her friends say Kereki’s fashion sense is simply original. “She’s just Alyssa,” sophomore Kelsey Shantz said. “She wears her outfits for herself, not for someone else.”

By embracing all aspects of life, Kereki lets her creative side show, and encourages others to do the same. A sweet example is her love for letting others decorate her cupcakes during dinner. She enjoys both watching her friends and eating the treats afterward, regardless of the toppings.

“What I’ve learned from Alyssa is to be yourself in all ways, even through your clothing,” Shantz said. “Accept who you are and remain confident in it.”

This break, don’t be afraid to be yourself. In all simplicity, buy what you like and what fits you best. If it’s you, it can help make your break fabulous. As Kereki says — “Do what makes you happy.” n

ACROSS 1 “Lorna Doone” character 5 Sinbad’s bird 8 Demolish (British) 12 Idea (French) 13 Alas 14 Cheese 15 Leg ends 16 Burmese knife 17 Taro 18 Small S.A. rabbit 20 Pilgrim 22 Skin vesicle 23 Veneration 24 Beginning 28 Blaubok 32 Public vehicle 33 54 (Roman numeral) 35 Israelite tribe 36 Ringed boa 39 Reading desk 42 Abdominal (abbr.)

44 Have (Scottish) 45 Female falcon 48 Butterfly 52 State (French) 53 Television channel

55 56 57

58 59 60 61

Endearment Mine (Fr., two words) Roman first day of the month Per. poet Maid Compass direction Foreign (pref.)

DOWN 1 Breach 2 Design 3 Profound 4 Hate 5 Fanatical 6 Wood dorrel 7 Rudderfish 8 Flat molding 9 “Cantique de Noel” composer 10 Kemo ______ 11 Turkish title 19 Japanese fish 21 Intimidate 24 Amazon tributary 25 Grab 26 Kwa language 27 “_____ Abner”

29

30 31 34 37 38

40 41 43 45 47 49 50 51 54

“Fables in Slang” author Rhine tributary Television channel Car Insect Presidential nickname Helper Caddy (two words) Male duck Loyal Cella Crippled Dayak people Aeronautical (abbr.)

Low (French)

ANSWERS

2010 Santori Publishing

February 2010 l Crescent Magazine

37

eats

by James Drury

Mongolian MOUNTAINS

Pile it high and don’t be shy

T

eddy Roosevelt said, “Tread softly and carry a big stick.” The guys at Charlie’s Mongolian Barbeque carry two and cook amazing food with them.

This unique restaurant at 315 Diamond Ave. combines mouthwatering Asian stir-fry with friendly service and a fun, welcoming atmosphere for a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

Charlie’s isn’t your usual all-you-can-eat restaurant. Instead, it’s all-you-can-fit-onyour-plate. If you do it right, you could have enough stir-fry for your meal and lunch the next day.

But it takes real skill to be able to maximize the amount of food you can pile on.

Some students find that the best technique is to flatten out the noodles. Then you can pile on the various meats and vegetables without having to perform an epic balancing act to keep everything from slipping off the plate.

Others think that the best method is to arrange your noodles around the outside of your plate. This will leave plenty of space in the middle for all the ingredients.

“Don’t be afraid to stack it high,” senior Katie Weihbrecht said. “They expect it. If you come up with some dinky little plate, they’ll look at you like ‘What the hell are you thinking?’”

But it doesn’t matter how you decide to top your noodles. Your task is to complete

the initial equation: noodles, plus heaps of meat and veggies, plus any combination of eight different cooking sauces. It all equals one amazing dish. After that, every dish is cooked to the same high quality and degree of originality.

The equation is different for everyone, but that’s one of Weihbrecht’s favorite things about Charlie’s.

“You aren’t forced to get things you don’t like, like broccoli,” she said.

Other than the sauces, there aren’t any house specials. The cooks cater to the whims of customers and give them exactly what they want.

As if the taste of the food wasn’t enough, you get to watch the chefs cook it right in front of you. And you don’t have to burn through your cash for this like you might at a Japanese steakhouse. A full plate of food, a drink and a trip to the dessert bar costs less than $10.

“It’s a real treat to go,” senior Matt Schueller said, who loves the stir-fry and watching the cooking process. But one of his favorite parts about Charlie’s is Charlie himself.

Many students agree that neither food nor low prices draw them in. Instead, it’s restaurant owner, Charlie Qui. He’s one of the first things any hungry customer sees when walking through the front door.

Qui personally welcomes his guests, making sure they get exactly what they came for. In fact, some students are such frequent customers that they’re greeted by name as soon as they enter.

Qui’s charm doesn’t stop at just being welcoming — he cracks jokes and makes his guests laugh throughout their meal.

“He told me that he’d give me so much hot sauce that I’d cry like a skinny little girl,” freshman Wolfe Greene said.

It’s easy to see that Qui loves what he does. His favorite part about running the restaurant is trying to satisfy all sorts of different tastes. “Everybody is different,” he said, “but everybody likes it here.”

So if you need great stir-fry and don’t want to break the bank, make your way to Charlie’s Mongolian Barbeque. It’s open from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Friday and Saturday. ■

Asian Sensations CRAZY BUFFET lays out quite a spread. For $7, you can stuff your face with as much traditional Chinese food as you can handle. They also have American and Italian favorites, plus a sushi bar. • 701 N. Burkhardt Road 38

Crescent Magazine ● February 2010

JIMMY JENG’S SZECHWAN CHINESE RESTAURANT offers great lunch spe-

cials ranging from $4 to $10. It’s perfect for the student who has major cravings but not much cash. • 669 N. Green River Road

YEN CHING CHINESE RESTAURANT has a delicious Sunday buffet for only $8.25. They also have great weekly lunch specials starting at $4.75, which includes an entree, soup, hot tea and rice. • 406 S. Green River Road

nightlife

Peace, Love &

d

Coffee

espite Evansville’s reputation for being an industrial city lacking color and creativity, Haynie’s Corner Arts District in historic downtown Evansville provides students with a breath of fresh air with Penny Lane Coffeehouse.

With an eclectic Beatles-inspired name and an open environment, this charming cafe instantly hooks many first-timers. Part of its appeal is the anticipation of fresh faces and fresh coffee.

“The best way to describe Penny Lane is a place that is retro in a hippie laissezfaire way with a free love vibe,” sophomore Rachel Cochran said. “It’s welcoming to all college students, hipsters, neo-beatniks and musicophiles.”

Winter is one of the best times to reconnect with your inner hipster. Since weather tends to keep you inside, why not head to 600 S.E. Second St., where you can find a good book, hot chai and great music?

Penny Lane offers more than just your run-of-the-mill coffees. Not only do they have a wide variety of specialty coffees, but they also carry Yogi Organic Healing Herbal teas, smoothies and vegan and vegetarian soups. Besides being delicious, all their menu items are relatively low-priced and affordable for students on a budget.

The coziest part of the shop is a little nook toward the back with couches, chairs, books and games galore.

The massive bookshelf boasts a collection with something for every-

by Kate Wood When winter’s at its worst, enjoy a hot beverage in this cool environment

one: biographies on your favorite musicians, political leaders and scientists, religious texts ranging from the Bible to the Koran and literary classics from Shakespeare to Hemingway.

Besides fantastic reading, you’ll also find board game classics new and old alike — Apples to Apples, chess and more. Essentially, Penny Lane has something for all tastes and moods. And although they have excellent coffee and tea, the main attraction is the music. Penny Lane offers live music every Friday and Saturday night featuring local artists.

Junior Chelsea Touchet, a regular at the coffeehouse, said the owners showcase every type of music, from folk to jazz to punk rock, with the occasional poetry slam thrown in the mix. On weekdays, you’re likely to hear soft, acoustic versions of contemporary songs and older classics.

While most students are consumed with clubs, fraternities and studying, it never hurts to get away for a little while.

Senior Megan Sicard said it’s easy to get caught up in campus life and forget about the rest of what Evansville has to offer. But, eventually the drone of daily classes, meetings and other responsibilities starts to take its toll on every student.

“I think Penny Lane is perfect on those weekends that I just need to get away from the pressure of everything on cam-

pus — social, academic, whatever,” Sicard said.

Senior Matthew Jones said Penny Lane is a great way to start the day. But senior Jesse Miller said his favorite time to go is on weekend nights for the live performances.

Really, the best time to go is anytime.

When you have an extra 30 minutes to spare or feel like getting away for the evening, Penny Lane will be waiting.

Cochran, who worked in a coffee shop for two years, said the friendliness and competence of the staff is also an incentive to choose this independent shop over chain coffeehouses.

When students go to this establishment in the middle of the city’s artistic district, they feel like they are contributing to the community. Penny Lane is guaranteed to leave you feeling just a little bit better than when you first walked in the door.

Between the art, coffee, music and location, it’s impossible to deny that Penny Lane is buzzing with creativity. This coffeehouse has worked its way into the heart of Evansville as a creative thinker’s dream and a scientist’s guilty pleasure. With a mission that promotes peace, love and good coffee, this undeniable force in the downtown community is becoming Evansville’s worst kept secret, and rightly so.

Penny Lane is open from 7 a.m.–10 p.m.

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 a.m.– 11 p.m. Fridays, 9 a.m.–11 p.m.

Saturdays and 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

Sundays. n

February 2010 l Crescent Magazine

39

schitzengiggles

Y

ou probably don’t give a lot of thought to how much of your life is spent in transit. Though you may not be physically travelling anywhere at the moment, you probably still look forward to something better than what you currently have.

This idea is just one of the many I had time to ponder while I rode the bus all throughout elementary and middle school.

You see, circumstances dictated that I only sat and contemplated things since the whole time was spent under the reign of one of the most sociopathic individuals to ever be employed by a school corporation: Jerald, the driver of Bus No. 1.

I first climbed onto Jerald’s bus for my first day of first grade at a new school. A wide, yellowed grin greeted me as the funny door folded open, and I hiked up the steep stairs and past the khaki uniform that had been colored by thousands of miles of gravel road.

I wobbled down the aisle and kept my eyes down. I had always felt that I would be a back-of-the-bus kid, so I headed that way to sit and think about why my parents didn’t love me enough to take me to school themselves.

Suddenly, a crackling sound came over the bus intercom, followed by a gravelly voice asking about the “kid that just got on.”

I immediately sensed an object in my personal space. I turned slightly to my left to see a finger from somewhere high above pointing at me. The intercom then instructed me to sit closer to the front, with the younger children.

I slowly acquiesced, and stood to find other kids who were much older surrounded me, and they indeed got younger the farther forward I went.

This segregation struck me as odd at the age of 7. That was only the first impression.

The intricacies of the political system unveiled itself over the course of the next few years in two 50-minute intervals per day during which Jerald the bus driver never failed to be an obsessive-compulsive neurotic hypochondriac who would — to this day — baffle the most renowned psychoanalysts.

We, the riders of Bus 1, would hear

40

Crescent Magazine l February 2010

rural ROUTE one

n

about Buses 2 and 6 where you could stand most ridiculous disasters imaginable. up while the bus was moving, or the fabled One afternoon in particular, Jerald Bus 10 where they were allowed to con- thought he heard something tick against sume snacks and beverages. And we sang one of the windows. Of course, this rein our hearts like a catatonic chain gang. quired investigation.

Jerald reigned over his pasIan and I, now 15 and satusengers with a series of rules rated by a watershed of suffothat were too far above any percated hatred, watched him rumson who could ever step onto mage up and down the aisle, his bus and not be comprehendtrying to find whatever it was that ed by anyone but him. Punish“somebody threw.” He eventualments became more and more ly brought his head up and held violent, and each transgression something between his fingers. It had the same punishment, gen- n Regan Campbell, was a piece of pea gravel. erally filed as an act of “show- a junior creative “You all know better,” he ing off.” growled, “than to throw stuff on writing major from Talking to someone in front, Vincennes, closes this bus. Something like this…” behind or across the aisle from each issue with He looked at it carefully, and Ian you was strictly forbidden. his special brand and I were stricken — something Chewing gum? You got to sit in of humor on life’s immense rising in us. “You could the front seat. Wearing your hat lighter moments. get somebody hurt. You could get incorrectly? Front seat. No reading books it in their eye.” We held steady, but it was — might miss your stop. No headphones — thrashing against us. you need to hear him when he’s talking to “It could get in somebody’s ear.” Much you. No doing homework — paper gets on stronger now. “It could get in their mouth, the floor. If you really wanted to sit in the choke ’em.” We held our breath, but the front seat, you could stare into his mirror pain was already overpowering. at him until he flipped out, stopped the bus “You could break a window.” That was in the middle of the road and threatened to it. Those words struck the insides of our write you up. clenched mouths, and Ian and I exploded At the start of fifth grade, I met my friend in tandem into a brilliant display of a whiteIan on the bus, and as was usual, our ear- hot, world-ending bout of raging laughter ly friendship revolved mostly around Poke- that ripped us apart inside out. mon. We started our dreamer conversaJerald kindly waited for our last breathtions, formulating hilarious hypothetical less, tear-soaked chuckles to smolder besituations and discussing randomly until fore saying, gravely, “Ian, Regan. I’m real we had everything in the world figured out. tired of you thinking everything on this bus This mostly consisted of me saying is funny.” something like, “You know what would be We said nothing. We were more conawesome? A sequel to ‘The Matrix.’” Ian cerned with preventing the second round. would usually reply with a quizzical, nod- We went without punishment, somehow. ding expression, saying, “Yeah…yeah…”

Only years later, as we started driving, did But what really bonded us was our com- it ever occur to us that we had always pitmon oppressor. ied the man.

Jerald continued his ways, backing his Bus 1 passengers, I believe, have an unevery commandment with the word “safe- touchable tolerance for authority. We are ty,” but the best days of our lives were ones able to respect people in charge more easiwhen he would ford the bus through the ly. We don’t say anything unless we have to. floodwater rushing over a county road, or I believe we slowly realized that Jerald was especially the time we thought he was go- an unassuming martyr for a cause that was ing to punch the guy who snapped and altogether larger than any of us. challenged Jerald to a fistfight. Yet, Jerald It’s hard to say, but I think we might even still put forth his best effort to prevent the miss the guy. n