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FOR RELEASE FEBRUARY 11, 2018

Many students unprotected as STD rates rise

Feb. 14, 2018 | newsrecord.org

JACOB FISHER | COPY EDITOR

Over 95 percent of parents support sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention education in middle and high schools, according to a 2017 peer-reviewed study. But despite widespread approval for comprehensive sex education, reported cases of many common STIs continue to climb. In 2016, over 1.5 million cases of chlamydia were reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) nationwide — a 134 percent increase in just 16 years. Among Ohio’s 88 counties, Hamilton County reported the highest infection rate at 820 cases per 100,000 people. 74 percent of reported cases occur in individuals between 15 and 24 years of age. “Not everyone gets tested,” said Brandy Reeves, director of the University of Cincinnati Student Wellness Center. “You don’t know if you’re infected until you get tested.” Though sex education is included in most American schools’ curriculum, schools vary widely on the types of information addressed. In 2014, the Guttmacher Institute reported that over three-quarters of U.S. high schools teach students about avoiding pregnancy through abstinence, but just 35 percent teach students about proper condom usage. “It’s important for kids to know about this stuff,” fourth-year communications student Jeff Robinson said. “Contraceptives are a lot cheaper than unintended pregnancies and doctor visits.” Failure to learn about the importance of contraceptives may pose implications for students after graduation. In a 2016 survey by the American College Health Association, over 40 percent of University of Cincinnati students did not report contraceptive use the last time they engaged in vaginal intercourse. Sex education in schools may not be entirely to

blame, however. Gail Bolan, director of the CDC’s STD prevention division, cited job reduction and funding cuts to the public health sector as factors for increased STI transmission rates. “Not that long ago, gonorrhea rates were at historic lows, [and] syphilis was close to elimination,” Bolan wrote in the foreword of a 2016 CDC report. “It is imperative that federal, state, and local programs employ strategies that maximize long-term population impact by reducing STD incidence and promoting sexual, reproductive, maternal, and infant health.” At UC, instances of unprotected consensual sex appear more likely when drinking. Of students who consumed alcohol within the past year, roughly 29 percent reported engaging in unprotected sex while under the influence. Resources that promote safe sex are readily available to UC students, however. The UC Student Wellness Center offers free condoms

to students during business hours and promotes information on STI testing. “If a student has health insurance and they are okay using their health insurance knowing that their parents might find out … they can certainly go to University Health Services,” Reeves said. “[Otherwise], we recommend that students go to the Cincinnati Health Department. They have a sliding fee scale, and so generally if they go in and say, ‘I’m a college student,’ then either it will be free, or it will be really reduced.” The center also hosts the “Gotcha Covered” program — a one-hour workshop that supplies students with condoms to distribute as needed to their peers. “[It] allows us to pass out condoms and other sexual health materials on a much broader scale, especially when we’re closed,” Reeves said of the program. For more information about the program, visit the UC Wellness Center website.

THE TV CROSSWORD by Jacqueline E. Mathews

ACROSS 1 “How __ Your Mother” 5 Actor Vigoda 8 Captain in “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” 9 Homer’s wife 12 Son’s name on “Alice” 13 Sean of “NCIS” 14 Popular Irish singer 15 “__ Man Standing” 16 Baby’s high chair accessory 18 __ Moines, Iowa 19 Singer Marvin __ 20 “Deal __ Deal” 21 Actress Sher of “The Middle 23 Prisons afloat 24 “Whose __ Is It Anyway?” 25 Series set at a school for the performing arts 26 Soldier’s gun 28 Become dizzy 29 Skating rink shape 30 Will of “The Waltons” 32 Blood analysis site 35 Clamor 36 Ice cream scoop holder Solution to Last Week’s Puzzle

37 __ Baxter; role on “That’s So Raven” 38 “Crossing Over with John __” 40 Actress Bello 41 Prolonged attack 42 “__ Upon a Time” 43 “__ and Stacey” 44 Actor __ McDonough 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 13 15 17 19 20 22 23 25 26 27 30 31 33 34

TNR FILE

36 37 39 40

DOWN __ ear and out the other Series for Jaleel White Samms or Thompson “__ Story”; blockbuster animated film Make laugh One of the Maverick Brothers Make a mistake Captain __; role on “Star Trek: Discovery” Watching Knight or Koppel Elly __ Clampett Lois __; role on “Smallville” Derek and Diddley Actor Hackman “Coffee, Tea __?”; Karen Valentine TV movie Pickle variety Actor Max __ Jr. “Born __”; film about a lioness Steiger or Serling Climbing plants Punctured “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s __”; Johnny Depp movie Lead character in “The Little Mermaid” Win __ nose; achieve victory, but just barely Actor Nicolas Charlie Chaplin’s prop Ming-Na __ Night we watch “9JKL”: abbr.

News

How to keep yourself safe this Valentine’s Day BRIANA RICE | CONTRIBUTOR

SAMI STEWART | CONTRIBUTOR

The Student Wellness Center is the home to countless resources for students including condoms, feminine hygiene products, chapstick, nail files, and endless information about well-being and self care.

With so much talk about love and relationships this week, many students will find themselves having sex. Luckily for students on the University of Cincinnati’s campus, the Student Health and Wellness Center offer many resources to promote safe sex. “The [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] estimates that people under 24 acquire 50% of all new STIs,” the center’s website reads. “For this reason, the UC Wellness Center seeks to promote responsible and safer sexual behavior so that UC students can maintain good sexual health. The most important thing to remember when it comes to sexual health is that many of the unwanted or negative effects of sexual behavior are preventable if people engage in safer sex.” Available resources include information on contraceptive barrier methods and different forms of sexually transmitted infections and diseases. They also offer substantial information about the importance of consent. “A person under the influence of alcohol cannot legally give consent,” the website cautions students.

The center also offers a wide variety of information about relationships, outlining equality, honesty, physical safety, respect, humor, comfort, sexual respectfulness and comfort as the positive traits of a healthy relationship. Conversely, characteristics of unhealthy relationships often include control, dishonesty, physical abuse, intimidation, sexual abuse, dependence and hostility. “We actually have peer educators who are working with students who are more than willing to talk about healthy relationships and what those look like,” said a representative from the center. “It’s important that we not only provide workers, but also provide peer advocates who can provide advice in ways that employees aren’t able to.” This week is the center’s “Healthy Relationship Week,” during which they will have tables set up around campus distributing relationship information. They also inform students about safety during hookups and while using dating apps. Students can play the center’s dating game Wednesday at their table in the CRC Breezeway. Over 12,000 free condoms were given

away last year. With so many free and easily accessible options, it is easy to practice safe sex this week and throughout the year. “Latex condoms are always out [on the table],” said Madison Turner, an employee at the UC Wellness Center. “We have non-latex condoms as well as dams, which are for students when they engage in oral sex. We have flavored and unflavored lube. We have a ton of resources for students, including STI testing.” According to director Brandy Reeves, the center recommends the Cincinnati Health Department for STI testing. The department offers a sliding fee scale which significantly reduces or eliminates costs for college students. “We do occasionally get students who come in asking about STI testing,” said one representative. “I think is a great thing that so many students are coming in so often to practice safe sex.” The Student Wellness Center encourages outreach from students with any questions. Additionally, the center often providing peer advocates who are able to talk about students’ well-being in addition to their sexual health.

Masturbation: The taboo activity that pretty much everyone does ERIN COUCH | MANAGING EDITOR

is keeping quiet about masturbation. Second-year aerospace engineering student Mikele Boyd said he masturbates for various reasons. “Due to the studies that say regular sexual activity increases the lifespan of a man by up to eight years, I masturbate when it is needed,” Boyd said. “Masturbation I feel is useful for many different reasons; it’s a good way to manage a build-up of hormones and temptations that are caused by our natural biology but are against our social order.” Like Doran, Boyd agrees that masturbation should be a topic more people should feel comfortable talking about. “I think the taboo of masturbation should be removed because it causes a lack of knowledge of leaves doors open for misinformation and misconceptions,” Boyd said.

TNR FILE

to relax — but you’re also learning what you like so when you’re with someone else, you can have a better sex life with them because you already know what you like. You don’t have to tell them. They don’t have to figure it out for themselves, and nobody’s going in blind.” In addition to various accessories for solo masturbatory purposes, the shop sells various sex toys for couples. Since the store opened in 2011, there has been some community backlash about the nature of the items sold, said Doran. “We weren’t allowed to sell certain products — there was certainly controversy,” Doran said. “We have just normal couples that come in — a lot of people think it’s a bunch of weirdos — but it’s really just normal people that are looking to improve their sex life.” However, not everyone

Feb. 14, 2018 | newsrecord.org

Though masturbation is an arguably taboo conversation topic, various Cincinnati sources think it deserves more acceptance. Conversing about masturbation has proven difficult for some. However, according to studies by sex researcher Alfred Kinsey, masturbation is far more common than most people realize. In 1948, Kinsey wrote “Sexual Behavior in the Human Male,” and in 1953 published the follow-up “Sexual Behavior in the Human Female.” His findings — based on over 17,000 interviews over the course of 15 years — determined that masturbation is a common occurrence amongst men and women alike. 92 percent of males and 62 percent of females reported masturbating at least once in their lifetime, with the

most common demographic including ages between 16 and 20. Additionally, the higher the educational level, the higher the incidence rate. It is a taboo topic, yet it is based on a practice that is relatively common. But there are ways to reduce the stigma surrounding masturbation, according to Annie Doran, manager of the downtown location of Hustler Hollywood. Hustler Hollywood — a chain of “adult boutiques” that sell sex toys, lingerie, personal lubricant, massage oils, bachelorette novelties and other adult products — has two locations in the Cincinnati area. They have numerous products which aide in masturbation, and using these devices is nothing to be ashamed of, said Doran. “Masturbation lets you learn your body,” she said. “Not only are you relieving stress — finding it as a way

News

The various benefits and risks of frequent sexual encounters JACOB FISHER | COPY EDITOR

PROVIDED

Virginity-loss stories that didn’t go as planned DAVID WYSONG | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

As college students, many of us have lost our virginities somewhat recently. As such, it is probably easy to remember our first time doing the dirty deed. Not all of us have funny or embarrassing stories from our first sexual experience, but a lot of people do. Here are some of the best stories from your peers. Let’s laugh at their hilarious misfortune.

My parents showed up

Feb. 14, 2018 | newsrecord.org

It is everyone’s worst nightmare — especially if you still live in your parents’ house — and it happened to a fourth-year information technology student. “When I lost mine, I was on a couch in my parents’ basement and they walked down,” he said. “They acted like they didn’t see it.”

The quick finish

“[It was with] a girlfriend I dated for three months, and I could have finished from basically touching her,” said one fourth-year film and media studies student. “I was such an amateur. She had dated a senior/graduate for over a year, so I was nervous that she had way more experience than me … I lasted like five seconds.”

I almost died of a heart attack and lost my virginity in the same day

For a fourth-year business student, her first time turned into one of the scariest days of her life. “We were both living with our parents at the time, and I had been raised very Catholic and he was an older boy — one year older and in college — so my parents were a huge obstacle,” she said.

that he was over to “study.” Her aunt then promised her she wouldn’t tell her mom and the two love birds went and tried again. “Attempt No. 2 went off without a hitch and dinner with my aunt and uncle was only mildly awkward,” she said.

When her parents announced they would be away for the weekend, she saw her opportunity.

“I was a junior in high school, and my boyfriend at the time and I decided that it was time to take the next step in our relationship,” one second-year Spanish student said. “I rode home with him and when we got to his house we decided to go for a ‘walk.’ We walked outside and he immediately pulled me towards an old shed sitting in his backyard … Out of all of the possibilities in a shed, we decided to take over the decaying wood floor … I spent the next two weeks finding splinters in places I never thought I could get splinters.”

“I was going to be home alone for a couple hours after school, then my aunt and uncle were going to pick me up for dinner and I would spend the rest of the weekend at their house,” she said. “We go up to my room, get naked, mess around a little and then he put on a condom while I climbed on top of him. Then, a literal inch from losing my virginity, my phone goes off.” What she then saw on her phone was a text from her aunt, reading, “Why is your boyfriend’s car in your driveway?” “I hopped off the bed, reading the text out loud, and started throwing my boyfriend’s clothes at him and started yelling,” she said. Her aunt ended up not being at the house — she doesn’t know how she knew her boyfriend was over — but she gave her the excuse

The nightmare in the shed

For those looking to improve their physical and mental well-being, frequent sex may be a solution. Among college students, sex boosts immunity. Students who engage in frequent sexual encounters showed increased levels of immunoglobin A — an antibody which serves as the first line of defense in preventing viral infections, according to a 2004 study conducted by Wilkes University psychology professor Carl Charnetski and behavioral neuroscientist Francis Brennan. “There’s a lot of benefits to engaging in sexual activity, like stress relief,” said Brandy Reeves, director of the University of Cincinnati Student Wellness Center. Stress reduction is a significant byproduct of healthy sexual activity, according to a 2016 research article. Among older partnered adults, analysts found that stress reduction resulting from sex may lower the risk for cardiovascular disease — the leading cause of death in the U.S. Researchers also concluded that the physical intensity of sex — namely, the “stretching of muscles and tendons, flexion of joints, and hormone fluctuation” — may promote cardiovascular wellness. The findings do not pedestalize sex as a cure-all, however. The article cited clinical studies suggesting sexual activity could “precipitate acute cardiac events for patients with a prior history of cardiovascular disease.” Among women, post-coital dysphoria (PCD) — feelings of sadness, anger, or anxiety after sex — are known to occur. A 2015 survey of 230 female university students found that 46 percent of respondents had experienced PCD at least one in their lifetime. Sexually transmitted infections (STI) are

perhaps the most widely perceived risk of sexual intimacy. In 2010, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated 19 million new infections in the U.S. annually. “[STIs] should certainly be something that [students] think about,” said Reeves. “But there are things you can do to reduce your risk. Using condoms and other barrier methods like dental dams … can certainly help to reduce the risk.” For most U.S. adults, however, the inherent risks are not a deterrent from engaging in sexual activity. Among men, the benefits of frequent ejaculation include reduced risk of prostate cancer. For women, frequent sexual activity strengthens pelvic floor muscles which aid bladder control, one study suggests. It also reduces the risk of vaginal atrophy — a common issue amongst roughly 50 percent of postmenopausal women. “For women or female-bodied folks, it can help with cramps, especially if they’re on their period or about to start their period,” said Reeves. “For people who are engaging in activities that are consensual, [it] can help bring partners closer together.” The research article cites the importance of relational intimacy as well, calling it “a source of emotional and social support, which is a key component that defines life context and in turn shapes health.” Furthermore, sexual intimacy is a powerful painkiller. As the body nears climax, the brain releases oxytocin and other endorphins which significantly boost pain tolerance thresholds among women. The UC Student Wellness Center, which heavily promotes safe sex, offers free condoms and additional health information during their business hours.

He struggled to find the entrance

“I left my socks on and my feet kept slipping — It happened on a couch,” second-year aerospace engineering student Mikele Boyd said. “I struggled to find the vaginal [entrance]. That was [a] laughable embarrassment.”

TNR FILE

News

Paying tuition: Some college students resort to stripping DAVID WYSONG | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, ZACH PERRIN | NEWS EDITOR

Though college students must pay tuition to get a good education, it often becomes a burden as they pinch pennies just to get by. Most students find various ways to make the money, ranging from working multiple jobs to applying for student loans. Others take more drastic measures, like dancing or stripping. A former male stripper, who worked under the alias Aaron “Tiger” Stone, said he would have been unable to pay off his last semester of college without the income he gained from stripping. “I [hadn’t] graduated yet and was doing a commission sales job to try and save up to buy my last semester because I couldn’t get another loan, and I spent too much time out of school, so I was paying loans,” Stone wrote in a message to TNR. “I just needed to shell out seven grand, so I kinda just skipped paying my student loans and saved up cash in a couple months of a crazy double life. I could not have done it without the income of stripping.” Tuition is just one of many expenses college students must manage, however. Most must also pay for bills, groceries and textbooks. “I do use my money [from stripping] for books,” said one second-year communications and science disorders UC student, whose stage name is Bailey. “The last two days I made $800 and my roommates were like, ‘Woah! I want to be a stripper.’” For Bailey and her roommates, her income has been a boon to their current living situation. “If it weren’t for me, we wouldn’t even have the house we have, because I covered three people’s deposits and that was like $300 [a person],” she said. “So I covered [a] $900 deposit. They paid me back eventually, but if I didn’t have this

[income], I wouldn’t even have that house.” Strippers earn a median of over $47,000 per year and can make up to $123,000 per year, according to payscale.com. Bailey said she averages roughly $500 per week in tips and earns $100-$200 on each paycheck. Her wages equate to roughly a $30,000 salaried income. Stone and Bailey said becoming a stripper has also increased their social confidence. “I grew up a shy guy that was nervous to talk to girls and I would have never been considered to possibly be a lady killer,” Stone said. “I wanted to practice the skill set since I recognized it as a weakness in myself.” “It affects my confidence level hella,” Bailey said. “I do think I’m a little bit more willing to be outgoing and social … [which] also helps me build my social skills because I have to make sales every day. So, when I first started working here, I barely really made shit because I was so shy, but now I can talk and talk.” Despite earning a higher income than most hourly wage jobs, Stone said stripping does not come without its downfalls. “[There are] so many negatives,” Stone said. “I had coworkers steal from me twice. I had a coworker threaten me with a knife. I had another coworker threaten to fight me. I removed knives from the hands of two customers by force. I’ve witnessed several crimes. I’ve given lap dances to disgusting human beings … I’ve been called a f---ot by men and women.” Likewise, Bailey said workplace safety is a cause for concern. “There’s shitty people everywhere and you just have to have a tough skin with that kind of shit,” she said. “Yesterday was the first time I ever legit called a bouncer out on somebody to kick them out … I think we have really great workers,

at least here, that really do protect the girls and really care about us. And I think that’s really important, if you have someone, like workers or managers, who don’t care about you at a place like this you know you can get very taken advantage of.”

“If it weren’t for me, we wouldn’t even have the house we have, because I covered three people’s deposits and that was like $300 [a person]”

- Bailey The biggest negative of being a stripper, however, is the effect it has on one’s romantic life, according to Stone. “I want a decent woman and anyone who is worth a damn has a smart enough head on her shoulders that she will find out that I was a stripper,” Stone said. “Most decent women will never date a male exotic dancer due to the stigma, and rightfully so — strippers are typically assholes. So, I cannot get a decent woman, despite the fact that I am a very lawabiding [and] attractive male.” Despite all the negatives, Stone is ultimately proud of the life he has lived. “I finished my degree and I’ve been an engineer for three years now,” he said. “I am pretty proud of the path I’ve walked.”

Feb. 14, 2018 | newsrecord.org DOULIERY-HAHN | ABACA PRESS | MCT

An exotic dancer from the most notorious of Tampa’s all-nude clubs, Mons Venus, performs less than six miles from where the Republicans gather for the 2012 Republican National Convention in Florida August 28, 2012. Tampa, the city that is home to the originator of the lap dance and has been called the strip club capital of the country, is geared up for an influx of randy Republicans. Extra strippers have been hired and delegate discounts have been offered.

Life & Arts

MARLENA TOEBBEN | CONTRIBUTOR

A display of sweets by Bouchard’s Pasta at the Findlay Market Valentine’s Day Sweet Stroll, Feb. 11, 2018.

Valentine’s Day on the cheap: 10 dates under 10 dollars ELIZABETH DAVIS | CONTRIBUTOR

Feb. 14, 2018 | newsrecord.org

Have a date for Valentine’s Day but don’t have the money for a giant stuffed bear or a fancy box of chocolates? Enjoy an inexpensive date day (or night) with your valentine! Here are some fun ideas that won’t break the bank.

1. Movie and game night

For some, the best dates include staying in and watching your favorite movie, especially during the winter with your significant other. Challenge your valentine to a video game or rent a free flick from Redbox by texting “VALPACK” to 727272. This offer is valid from Feb. 14 through Feb. 28.

2. Beer and donuts

Crooked Handle and Donut Haus teamed up to offer a unique beer and donut pair this Valentine’s Day. For just $7, you can receive your choice of donut paired with a locally crafted Crooked Handle beer from 4-10 p.m. at Crooked Handle brewery in Springboro.

3. Local Art Museums

Cincinnati’s art museums are always free, so take advantage of it this Valentine’s Day. Check out the Cincinnati Art Museum’s current exhibitions by Ana England and William

Kentridge. If you’re looking for something more romantic, the Contemporary Arts Center currently features works by Brazilian artist Sandra Cinto, creator of the popular “Contemplation Room & Library of Love” exhibits. It’s perfectly fitting for a day of love and appreciation.

4. Bake together

Grab your valentine and bake some cookies from scratch. This is a great date, and chances are you have most of the ingredients in your kitchen already. Don’t forget to dance to this Valentine’s Day playlist on Spotify while you make your tasty treats.

5. Pretzels

Head to Auntie Anne’s to grab a salty treat with your valentine. Through their “My Pretzel Perks” app, you can receive a buy-one-get-one-free coupon for a heart-shaped pretzel. Surprise your valentine with a filling snack or make it a date.

6. Drinks

If you’re seeking a casual night out, Arlin’s Bar and Restaurant in Clifton offers drink specials every Wednesday night including Valentine’s Day from 3-7 p.m. Grab a domestic beer for $2 or a draft for $5.

7. Coffee and Sweets

Carabello Coffee in Newport, KY is hosting an event Wednesday including a three-course coffee tasting and dessert. “Our barista will walk you through an hour long experience including a wide variety of coffee beverages,” the event description reads on Carabello’s website. “This is a great event for singles or couples. You can choose the date and what time you would like to come.” Plus, you pay just $10 when you split it with your date.

8. Puppy date

If you’re an animal lover, volunteer with your date to walk dogs at a local animal shelter. What could be better than going for a walk with your valentine and a fluffy friend?

9. Starbucks

Enjoy Starbucks’ new cherry cordial-inspired coffee with your valentine. If you love chocolate covered cherries, you’ll love this new drink. This date is ideal for coffee lovers. While you’re there, be sure to grab a Valentine’s Day-themed cake pop.

10. Treat Yourself

Single again for Valentine’s Day? Treat yourself anyway. Go out and have some fun, or grab some ice cream and enjoy a relaxing night in.

Life & Arts

Top Cincy restaurants to take your sweetheart to for Valentine’s Day NOELLE ZIELINSKI | LIFE & ARTS EDITOR

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and finding the perfect place to take your significant other can be difficult and stressful. However, a few Cincinnati restaurants are offering Valentine’s Day specials to make planning 10 times easier. Here are some places offering specials this year, as well as some restaurants featuring a romantic setting for you and your valentine.

Brown Dog Café:

The Brown Dog Café has

an annual Valentine’s Day tradition in which guests are treated to a prix fixe menu for the evening. Spots fill up quickly, so be sure to reserve seats now for yourself and your date.

Orchids at Palm Court:

This downtown restaurant is among the most highly recommended spots for those seeking a romantic night out with their date, and Valentine’s Day is no exception to the standard. Enjoy a three, four or fivecourse meal with options including smoked salmon,

New York strip steak, scallops, duck, lamb and other savory entrée choices. Pick and choose your courses to create the perfect meal for you and your significant other.

Eddie Merlot’s Prime Aged Beef & Seafood:

Eddie Merlot’s Prime Aged Beef & Seafood is offering a wide array of specials for you and your significant other to enjoy. One such special includes surprising your date with 12 red roses and a half bottle of Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Reserve. Other include Arctic Char

Del Mar, bone-in filets, New Zealand king salmon and lobster — all specially priced. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to surprise your significant other with a night of wine, roses and delicious food.

The Melting Pot:

The Melting Pot is another great restaurant option for Valentine’s Day. Calling themselves “the original fondue restaurant,”The Melting Pot offers a unique dining experience in which guests can enjoy several fondue cooking styles, salads and savory desserts.

This restaurant is perfect for forming memories and enjoying fun, laidback atmosphere. Share a pot of fondue and some champagne at this one-of-akind dining experience.

BRAVO Cucina Italiana:

Try a few options off BRAVO’s menu including shrimp and lobster campanelle, grilled salmon picatta or crab crusted beef medallions. BRAVO is also offering a special serving of their chocolate cheesecake. This dessert is a limitedtime offer, so join BRAVO

Cucina Italiana to celebrate this Valentine’s Day.

The Celestial Steakhouse:

A breathtaking view of the Cincinnati skyline and the Ohio River make this incredible dining experience even better. The restaurant setting itself is beautiful, and they offer a wide variety of entrees and dessert options. For Valentine’s Day, they are offering a special three-course meal with a customizable menu. You won’t want to miss out on this incredible offer.

Feb. 14, 2018 | newsrecord.org MARLENA TOEBBEN | CONTRIBUTOR

Double Raspberry Truffles by Maverick Chocolate Co. at the Findlay Market Valentine’s Day Sweet Stroll, Feb. 11, 2018.

Life & Arts

How to be alone on Valentine’s Day MARLENA TOEBBEN | CONTRIBUTOR

So, it’s Valentine’s Day, and you’re alone. What are you supposed to do? Take some tips from me — an expert at being single (and I’ve convinced myself I’m not dating anyone so I can keep that on my business cards).

First, let’s focus on what not to do: • Do not stalk. I repeat: Do. Not. Stalk. — whether in-person or on the internet (okay, especially not inperson — that’s illegal). Do not even consider looking up what your ex is doing today. In fact, today might be the ideal day to pursue a social media detox. A lot of people are going to be posting super cute stuff, and hey — you don’t need that. • Do not go on dating apps. I may not have a tangible or clear-cut reason for this one, but it just feels wrong. MARLENA TOEBBEN | CONTRIBUTOR

• Do not let them get to you. This one might be a little dramatic, but a more pessimistic take on Valentine’s Day could be viewed as an excuse for people to show off. What can

• Do not post about how much you hate Valentine’s Day (with the only exception being one witty tweet. You get only one)! Please see above about being too busy living your best life. • Try not to listen to the live version of “Stone Cold” by Demi Lovato on repeat. (Hint: that has been me the entire time while writing this article).

Alright, now let’s talk about what we should do: • Let me tell you about a thing called Galentine’s Day. Yes, this is a “Parks and

Recreation” reference. It’s like Valentine’s Day, but for your gal-pals! Get together with some friends — guys and gals alike — and celebrate the people in your life, no matter the status of relationship. • Remember that your relationship status does not determine your worth as a human. This is America, and we are all obsessed with ourselves. So, live it up and remember how great you are. • Let’s talk about self-care. Here are a few ideas: Do a face mask, try meditation (a personal favorite), take a nap (a bigger personal favorite), go on a walk or simply sit down and ask yourself, “What do I actually want to do today?”Then, just do it. • Honestly, just do whatever you want. Today and every day. Make this Valentine’s Day a time to focus on self-care, self-empowerment and selflove. No matter what others may tell you, it’s okay to feel good about yourself!

Feb. 14, 2018 | newsrecord.org

Wine displayed for sale at the Findlay Market Valentine’s Day Sweet Stroll, Feb. 11, 2018.

you do about it? There are few things as empowering as simply minding your own business. As in, “Oh, sorry, I’m just a little too busy being my best self over here to read your two-mile-long Instagram caption.” Or, “Do I want to hear about your Valentine’s Day plans? Man, you know I would love that, but I have a bubble bath and my favorite book waiting for me and really can’t be late.” Dodge those sappy lovers like it’s nobody’s business.

MARLENA TOEBBEN | CONTRIBUTOR

A bouquet by The Budding Florist at the Findlay Market Valentine’s Day Sweet Stroll, Feb. 11, 2018.

MARLENA TOEBBEN | CONTRIBUTOR

Jarred candies displayed alongside a variety of samples by local vendors at the Findlay Market Valentine’s Day Sweet Stroll, Feb. 11, 2018.

Life & Arts

Students share their worst Valentine’s Day horror stories NOELLE ZIELINSKI | LIFE & ARTS EDITOR

Not every day a Valentine’s Day story ends with a happily ever after. In fact, plenty end in disaster or heartbreak. Though these memories may have been painful in the moment, they make great stories to reminisce about later. Here are a few stories from students sharing their worst Valentine’s Day experiences. “In 8th grade, I had a crush on this girl and I wanted to start making moves, so I asked if she would be my valentine (not my girlfriend — it was too fast for that). So, for Valentine’s Day, I went and got her flowers and took them into school to put on her desk in homeroom (super cute, I know). Bur right after I dropped them off, I walked out into the hallway to see her walking into school holding hands with this kid I hated. [When] I walked into the school at first, all the girls were like ‘OMG who are those for?!’ So everyone knew that I had just given this girl flowers and just watched her walk down the hall with this other guy and it was really embarrassing.” - second-year operations management student “I got my ex a necklace and a pink shirt. She opened it up and said, ‘This is all you got me?’ Then [she] said I didn’t deserve her gift. A few days later, I found out that she never got me anything in the first place. Also, another [time], I got my ex a pair of shoes and she said she didn’t like them. I said we [could] return them, but she gave them to a girl a few doors down in her dorm.” - Mitch Fischer, second-year finance student Fischer also shared a story about something that happened to his friend of Valentine’s Day. “A girl DM’ed me asking me to help clean her basement when her parents weren’t home [one] Valentine’s Day. After flirting in the DM, I agreed. I walked into the house and a guy was already standing there in the kitchen with the girl. She handed me $10 and said that her parents would be home in an hour and the basement needs [to be] spotless, and then they both walked upstairs.”

Feb. 14, 2018 | newsrecord.org

“One Valentine’s Day in middle school, I had been dating a boy for a few months, so we decided to get each other gifts. I got him a pricey box of chocolates and a heartfelt letter, and I was so excited to see what he got me. So, in-between classes, we met at my locker and I gave him the chocolates and the letter. He then reaches into his pocket and pulls out … a potato. He had saved it in his freezer for a month because it was shaped like a heart. So, I got a deformed potato for Valentine’s Day. That was the last time I trusted a man.” - Olivia Taylor, third-year journalism student

DO YOU HAVE ANY HORRIBLE VALENTINE’S DAY STORIES?

Share them with us on newsrecord.org and on Twitter @NewsRecord_UC

MARLENA TOEBBEN | CONTRIBUTOR

The Budding Florist’s Valentine’s Day display in Findlay Market, Feb. 11, 2018.

Sports

JUSTIN HILES | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Gary Clark (11) looks on as the play dies during the men’s Basketball game against SMU at Moody Coliseum on Feb. 11, 2018.

JUSTIN HILES | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

The guys on the bench take some time to show their bond during the men’s basketball game at Moody Coliseum on Feb. 11, 2018.

Bearcats take on Wichita and Houston in crucial week

Feb. 14, 2018 | newsrecord.org

MATT HUFFMON | STAFF REPORTER

The University of Cincinnati men’s basketball team is ranked No. 5 in the country, according to a Monday announcement from the Associated Press (AP). The 23-2 Bearcats have been ranked for 30 consecutive weeks, and this week is the highest rank a UC team has risen since the end of the 2001-02 campaign. As of now, UC remains outranked by Virginia, Michigan State, Villanova and rival Xavier. “The kids aren’t talking about rankings,” Cincinnati associate head coach Larry Davis said. “They’re genuinely focused on the next game. We aren’t looking past anyone or anything at this point.” Senior forward Kyle Washington was named to the American Athletic Conference Weekly Honor Roll after posting averages of 15 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game this week. Utilizing Washington’s performance, UC dominated UCF 77-40 and SMU 76-51. The trio attack for Cincinnati — junior guard Jacob Evans III and senior forwards Washington and Gary “The Problem” Clark — have been rather devastating for opponents during their 16-game winning streak. Sophomore guard Jarron Cumberland is coming off a solid performance at SMU where he dispensed 12 points, four

assists and three rebounds. “We got to stay humble,” head coach Mick Cronin said. “If you lose sight of why you have the record you have and what it takes to win games, you’ll lose your edge and lose games in a hurry. Strategically, we have to continue to execute on the offensive end.” What lies ahead for the Bearcats? A visit to the healthy University of Houston Cougars this Thursday at the Fertitta Center in Houston. After UC came back from an 18-point deficit at home to roll to an 80-70 victory Jan. 31, the Cougars will be clawing to protect their home court. Since their loss to UC, Houston has won three straight AAC games. Houston’s leader comes in the presence of 6-foot-1 senior Rob Gray, who averages over 17 points, four assists and three rebounds on the season. However, UC pieced together a game plan to stop him in the first match-up, holding Gray to nine points on 4-of-15 shooting. Houston is not a one-man show, as senior forward Devin Davis and junior guard Corey Davis Jr. are viable threats. Davis churns out nearly 11 points and six rebounds each contest, while Davis Jr. contributes 12 points and three assists. The Texas trip is only the beginning of the Bearcats’ week, as the matchup circled on many preseason calendars occurs this

weekend. A newcomer to the AAC, No. 19 Wichita State University will visit BB&T Arena Sunday afternoon. The first of two scheduled meetings between the squads gives the Bearcats a chance to notch their first top-25 win this season. One of the keys to beating Wichita State is to halt their sophomore leader and point guard Landry Shamet, averaging 15 points and five assists per game. Although Cincinnati has a three-game lead in the AAC, Houston and Wichita State remain tied for second. Controlling the upcoming two games is UC’s first step in securing a one or two seed in the NCAA Tournament and clinching the AAC regular season title. UC’s depth will play a vital role over the course of the week. The bench, which frequently provides boosts of energy, will be asked to take it to the next level. Role players such as Cane Broome, Trevor Moore, and Trevon Scott will need to supply their most productive minutes of the year up to this point. Cincinnati flies to Houston (19-5) Feb. 15 for the Thursday matchup beginning at 7 p.m. CBS Sports Network will air the event. Wichita State (19-5) will arrive at BB&T Arena Sunday, Feb. 18 for a game that tips off at 4 p.m., which ESPN will be televising.

Sports

Three of the best postgame proposals ALEX FRANK | STAFF REPORTER

The moment when a man drops to one knee and asks the woman of his dreams to marry him is one many couples anticipate. As Valentine’s Day approaches, it’s worth noting the many memorable proposals which have occurred following sporting events. Here are a few of the most memorable postgame proposals.

1. Carlos Correa after Game 7 of the 2017 World Series

CHARLES BERTRAM | LEXINGTON HERALD-LEADER | TNS

Kentucky Wildcats forward Derek Willis (35) proposes to his girlfriend Keely Potts during senior night activities as the University of Kentucky Wildcats played the Vanderbilt University Commodores on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2017 in Rupp Arena in Lexington, KY.

First of all, it does not hurt to mention that Correa is now engaged to 2016 Miss Texas USA Daniella Rodriguez. After suffering a broken thumb during the regular season and seeing the city of Houston and his birth country of Puerto Rico devastated by hurricanes, the timing just seemed right after the Astros won the franchise’s first World Series. During a postgame interview on the field, Correa told Fox’s Ken Rosenthal that he wanted to take another big step in his life. “If we were World Series champions, I was going to [propose] right there,” Correa said to ESPN. “I don’t think that’s a stage you can create — it just has to happen.” Correa then turned to Rodriguez, asking her to marry him in front of over 28 million viewers nationwide. She, of course, said yes. “[I had] no idea,” Rodriguez told USA Today. “I mean, he had been so focused on all these games, that the last thing I ever thought would be on his mind was proposing to me.”

2. Ian Johnson after the 2007 Tostitos Fiesta Bowl

This had “Cinderella” written all over it. Johnson played fullback for the 2006 Boise State Broncos — a team that finished the regular season undefeated and were awarded a trip to the Fiesta Bowl against the Oklahoma Sooners, where they were 7.5-point underdogs. After Oklahoma took a 35-28 with just under 90 seconds remaining, the Broncos tied the game on a fourth down hookand-lateral play. In overtime, Johnson played hero by running winning a two-point conversion on a Statue of Liberty play. Amidst the ecstatic energy after pulling off the upset, Johnson dropped to a knee and proposed to his girlfriend, cheerleading captain Chrissy Popadics. Johnson later said he wasn’t sure if he would pop the question, but after FOX’s Chris Myers spoiled the proposal on camera before he took a knee, he knew it was time. “I had the ring in my room,” Johnson told the Associated Press after the win. “I was waiting for us to go back to California, but the moment just hit. There was no better time.”

3. Army-Navy Soccer

This proposal may not be as high-profile as the first two. The Army women’s soccer team had just defeated the Navy soccer team 2-0 in a 2013 match when Joey Molacek’s boyfriend — Cadet Scott Vrundy — walked onto the field and surprised her with a rose and a ring. “Having the clock count down to the time I had been planning on for months was so nerve-wracking,” said Vrundy. “I knew she would say yes, but I wanted everything to work out perfectly and for her to feel like the most special girl in the world at that moment.”

Five of the most high-profile athlete couples we all know and love BRESLIN SAND | STAFF REPORTER

1. Zach and Julie Ertz

Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt has been dating his girlfriend, forward for the U.S. Women’s National Team Kealia Ohai, for almost two years. The two met through Watt’s teammate, Brian Cushing, who is married to Ohai’s sister, Megan. While balancing demanding practice and game schedules, they find time to train together. “We’re very competitive,” Watt said to People magazine. “Very, very competitive, and we like to work out together. She’s much faster than me, [while] I’m slightly stronger.” Although they are viewed by many as a power couple,

3. Alex Morgan and Servando Carrasco

Alex Morgan, forward for the U.S. National Team, has been married to her husband, Servando Carrasco, midfielder for the L.A. Galaxy, since 2014. The couple met in college while they both played soccer for the University of California Golden Bears. Morgan has gone on to tie goals and assist records with Mia Hamm, making herself one of the world’s greatest soccer players. Carrasco has played at the MLS level since 2011. Not only do they play soccer together, but they work together in sports diplomacy programs and important political issues.

4. Shawn Johnson and Andrew East

Former Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson has been

married to Oakland Raiders long snapper Andrew East since April 2016. The two met after Johnson visited London during the 2012 Olympics to cheer for his cyclist friend Taylor Phinney. East’s brother, Guy, was one of Phinney’s teammates and was quickly convinced that the two would be a perfect match. He was correct. Their first official date was watching a Vanderbilt baseball game with East’s friends. “I fell head over heels, I guess,” Johnson said. She moved to Nashville four months later. In July 2015, East proposed.

is a two-time NBA allstar while Wozniacki is currently ranked No. 1 for women’s tennis. The two began dating in Dec. 2015 after meeting at a party in

Miami. This is Wozniacki’s second engagement. She was engaged to golfer Rory McIlroy in 2014 before he broke it off over the phone shortly before the wedding.

5. David Lee and Caroline Wozniacki

David Lee, former NBA player for the San Antonio Spurs, recently became engaged to Danish tennis champion Caroline Wozniacki. Lee proposed while the two were on vacation in Bora Bora in November 2017. Lee

JOE BURBANK | ORLANDO SENTINEL | TNS

Alex Morgan drives on the goal a moment before making the first score of their exhibition game against Brazil on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2015, at the Orlando Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Fla.

Philadelphia Eagles tight end Zach Ertz married his wife, U.S. women’s national team defender Julie Johnston, on March 26, 2017. The couple met at a Stanford baseball game while both were enrolled in school. Ertz attended Stanford while Johnston was at Santa Clara. They both went on to have prosperous careers as athletes. Ertz recently scored the game-winning touchdown for the Eagles in

2. JJ Watt and Kealia Ohai

they prefer to keep most aspects of their relationship private.

Feb. 14, 2018 | newsrecord.org

Curiosity and desire can act like drugs, especially when people are involved. Celebrities — particularly, their relationships — are the spotlight for watchful eyes. Yet Valentine’s Day brings a harsh light to all relationships, good or bad. So, whether you actively seek juicy information or not, here are the hottest couples in sports:

the 2018 Super Bowl, while Julie is a FIFA Women’s World Cup champion. They two enjoy spending time together while eating pancakes and playing “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare.”

Sports

Comparing this year’s Bearcats with ‘01-‘02 squad JASON SZELEST | SPORTS EDITOR

superior to Maxiell’s, however, making him an even more valuable player than the 10year NBA veteran. A few comparisons can be drawn between wing-men Leonard Stokes and Jacob Evans III as far as playmaking abilities and getting to the rim are concerned. But once again, the current player is much better from beyond the arc. As far as team success goes, the results are very similar. The 2001-02 squad finished the regular season 27-3 including a 20game winning streak. Offensively, the team numbers are very similar. In 2001-02, the Bearcats averaged 78.2 points per game. This season, they average 76.5. With defense and rebounding, the Bearcats have been a mainstay in the top-

10 throughout this millennium. In 2001-02, they averaged 39.9 rebounds per game — No. 6 in the nation. The current Bearcats are at 40.5, No. 11. As dominant as the Huggins squad was on defense, giving up 60.4 points per game — No. 8 in the nation — this squad is even better, surrendering 55.9, trailing only the University of Virginia. Bottom line: The records check out, the stats check out and the players can hold their own with the last squad to earn a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament. The Bearcats currently sit on the twoline, according to the NCAA selection committee’s recent release of the current rankings. This club has all the makings of earning a top spot, just like the club that came 16 years before them.

Feb. 14, 2018 | newsrecord.org

The University of Cincinnati men’s basketball team has taken this campus and the city by storm, jumping out to a 23-2 record and a current 16-game winning streak. The nation is beginning to take notice as well. The latest coaches poll has UC ranked No. 5 — their highest ranking since the final poll of the 2001-02 season. With the latest ranking bringing back memories of the Bob Huggins-led team that earned a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament, it is time to compare the last two squads to merit top-five recognition. First, start with what is not the same: There is no Steve Logan on this roster. In the 2001-02 season, the senior guard averaged 22 points and 5.3 assists en route

to earning first-team All-American honors. While there are several talented Bearcats on this year’s roster with future NBA careers seemingly on the way, there is no single player who has showcased the dominant performances Logan gave nightin and night-out. That is both good and bad, as their lack of a single standout player has contributed to this team’s all-around depth, where at least four players can take over any game. The closest similarity between two players comes with Jason Maxiell and Gary Clark. Both provide excellent energy, can dominate at both ends of the court with points, rebounds, steals and block. Most importantly, both can rock a rim, bringing the crowd to their feet. Clark’s three-point shooting ability is far

JOSE CARLOS FAJARDO | CONTRA COSTA TIMES

Cincinnati’s Steve Logan keeps the ball away from Boston University’s Kevin Fitzgerald in the first half of their first round game at the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 15, 2002 at the Mellon Arena.

Opinion

Mounir’s weekly MOUNIR LYNCH | OPINION EDITOR

1. Edible Arrangements

Apparently, these things are still popular, so we have to talk about them. They’re overpriced and, frankly, not even pretty. Edible Arrangements are popular edible flower bouquets that are given out for special occasions. There are many varieties of edible arrangements, including their $98 (plus tax and outrageous shipping costs) Valentine’s Day gift set, which includes heart-shaped pineapples, chocolatecovered strawberries, an artificial chocolate lollipop, regular strawberries, grapes and some cute balloons.Your average Edible Arrangement will run you at least $30 each time. There are better things to do for your boo this year, everyone. Don’t make the mistake of giving meh gifts.

2. Sweethearts Candy

“BE MINE,”“HOLD HAND,”“SWEAT HEART” and “LETS KISS” are among the endless possibilities of romantic (and often grammatically incorrect) greetings printed on these pastel-colored candies. We’ve gotten these things for practically every Valentine’s Day since elementary school. Their sentimental value and hilarious greetings don’t make up for their lackluster, pure sugar taste. They’re obviously doing something right, though, considering they’ve been around for more than a century.

3. White Chocolate

I think everyone knows white chocolate isn’t as tasty as any other chocolate. It is a pure, textbook example of a meh. It doesn’t have much flavor, aside from the fact that it’s overly sweet. On a very special occasion (when my mom buys it for me), I’ll eat those Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Creme bars that are way too sweet, yet so delicious. White chocolate truffles are pretty good, too, but that’s only because all truffles are perfect. That said, white chocolate has always been meh for me, even as a sweets-addicted kid.

4. Flower Delivery Services

5. Romantic Comedies

MOUNIR LYNCH | OPINION EDITOR

As we reach Valentine’s Day and begin moving into spring, more people are trying to enter relationships. If you aren’t currently searching for a significant other, you may already be in a relationship. If this sounds like you, making sure that the relationship is healthy and beneficial to your personal well-being is crucial. The health of our romantic and intimate relationships is something many people have trouble maintaining. Often, we choose not to even consider the health of our relationships. If your relationship exhibits any of these traits, it may be unhealthy.

1. Dishonesty/Lying 2. Physical Abuse 3. Emotional Abuse 4. Disrespect 5. Dependence on you/them 6. Hostility 7. Intimidation 8. Control

An unhealthy relationship can make you feel anxious, stressed and even afraid for your safety. You may feel like the negatives outweigh the positives. If so, it is a warning sign of an unhealthy relationship. Healthy relationships are based in trust, balance and mutual respect, to sum it up generally. There are many other dimensions to healthy relationships, but recognizing the warning signs of an unhealthy relationship and evaluating them against your own love life can be very helpful. When discussing healthy versus unhealthy relationships, we must also explain the importance of consent. Being in a relationship does not necessarily mean you or your partner will always consent to sexual activity. You are not obligated to consent to sex if you are in a relationship, and no still means no just as it would if you were simply hooking up with no strings

attached. You should still have open conversation and set clear, mutually respected boundaries in your relationship. Don’t be afraid to say no to things you’re uncomfortable with. Maintaining mutual control is a crucial way to keep your relationship healthy. Relationships are partnerships, and one partner should never make the rules for the other. Your significant other does not define what you should and shouldn’t do with your life. Making decisions together is healthy, but telling your partner what to do places an element of control over the other. Control is a significant risk factor for sexual and domestic violence. If you think that you are in an unhealthy relationship, there are many resources available to you. First, reaching out to a peer or family member that you genuinely trust can help you define the health of your relationship and decide what to do if it is unhealthy.

Ending an unhealthy relationship is difficult, but it is often the best choice to make. If an unhealthy relationship is abusive in nature, there several are resources available on and off campus which directly serve UC student victims.

Campus Advocates (Confidential crisis intervention service for survivors of gender-based violence) Courtney Harchaoui | charchaoui@ womenhelpingwomen. org Susan Pelle | spelle@ womenhelpingwomen. org UC Counseling & Psychological Services 24/7 Hotline: (513) 5560648 Women Helping Women 24/7 Helpline: (513) 381-5610

Ugh. These movies are the worst ones out there. From terrible acting to super predictable plots, these movies all seem like the same meh over and over. They usually have a cute storyline that you can enjoy on an occasion like Valentine’s Day, though, and cheering for the underdog to crash his or her ex’s wedding at the end of the film is always fun.

Red flags in unhealthy relationships

Feb. 14, 2018 | newsrecord.org

To all of you in a long-distance relationship like myself, Valentine’s Day can be a bit difficult. It often entails having gifts delivered to your significant other when you can’t visit them on that romantic day. In situations like these, flower delivery services can come in clutch. However, they too are overpriced — especially in shipping costs — and can really ruin the surprise of giving flowers. They often package the flowers in a box with the vase in a separate box, forcing the recipient to fill the vase with water and add the flowers. Making your valentine do work for their gift honestly makes it lose some of its charm. I recommend consulting your local florists to provide the best quality there is.You also get to support small business! Yay!

ALAN BERNER | SEATTLE TIMES | MCT

Alia Kaneko, left, and Sasha Rosenfeld kiss during spring in Seattle, Wash. Spring is a great time to reassess what makes you happy in a relationship and reconnect with your partner.

Opinion

Title IX offices require improvement here at UC MOUNIR LYNCH | OPINION EDITOR

“During my initial meeting... I felt both safe and reassured by Jyl and by the detective...”

-Jennifer Schoewe them with structure, answers and a fair opportunity to bring their attacker to justice. If we do not have that confidence, we will not report, and thus more students will be endangered and victimized.” UC Title IX was not immediately available to comment on the investigations or the status of the search for a new coordinator. In 2011, the U.S. Department of Education published a letter to colleges and universities highlighting the mission of Title IX and the USDE’s aim to combat sexual violence on campus through Title IX. The letter called upon higher learning institutions to implement programs on campus to aid compliance with Title IX standards. Further, the lengthy letter highlights that regardless of investigation results, the comfort and protection of victims should be top priority. According to a federal court case filing

involving UC and two sexual assault perpetrators, the UC Title IX office created several policies in response to the “Dear Colleague” letter. “Within seven days of receiving a complaint, a Title IX Coordinator meets with the respondent and provides notice of the allegations, a copy of UC’s Title IX policies, and information about investigation and disciplinary procedures,” the lawsuit reads. “At this meeting, the respondent is provided an opportunity to give his or her account of the facts and discuss the nature of the allegations. Within fourteen days of the complaint being filed, the Coordinator begins interviewing witnesses and gathering relevant evidence. The respondent is also permitted to provide any relevant evidence or witnesses. Following this investigation, the Coordinator prepares an investigatory report summarizing his findings. The report is then provided to both the complainant and respondent for review and comment … For the purpose of our review, we assume appellants’ description of UC’s Title IX process is true … During the investigation, the complainant may be provided certain accommodations, including changes in homework, deadlines, grades, classes, and schedules”. “I was told repeatedly by multiple people working for UC that there was a procedure UC was supposed to follow when it came to reports of sexual misconduct, and somehow nothing was going according to plan,” Schoewe said of her Title IX experience. “They assured me that my attacker, according to the law, would be interim suspended pending a university hearing. This was crucial to me because I didn’t feel safe going to classes or even walking on campus. A couple weeks after I reported, Jyl confirmed to me via phone call that he would be interim suspended. However, just a few hours later, I got another call asking me to report to (UCPD) where I was told that

the decision for that suspension had been reversed.” Following a lack of communication between Title IX and Schoewe, she took her case to the federal government. “I was told that the Title IX process was supposed to take a couple months and that a hearing to determine his guilt would likely be by the end of the semester,” she said. “Weeks went by, and there was no communication between the Title IX office and me. Going into winter break, I had no idea what was going on or where we were in the process. One day toward the end of the semester, I’d had enough. I filed a complaint with the Department of Education. In the complaint, I told my story and explained how poorly and [carelessly] the UC administration had been treating me throughout the entire process. The DoED then opened a formal investigation into how UC responds to sexual misconduct.” Schoewe believes that UC’s dedication to preserving their good image takes precedence over caring for victims. “Ultimately, the problem is that I do not think the UC administration cares enough about its students,” she said. “There is bias at work. I don’t think there is a particular bias toward victims, but I also don’t necessarily think it sways toward the accused either … I think the bias sways in whatever direction will be most beneficial, or least damaging, for the administration … Until UC commits to putting the safety of its students above all things and starts using fair and consistent standards and procedures, we will never see justice. We all lose.” The UC administration absolutely needs to listen to Schoewe’s testimony. It ought to resonate throughout the university’s most influential staff. If UC and Title IX really aren’t doing their best, possibly due to a lack of leadership, something must change immediately.

Feb. 14, 2018 | newsrecord.org

Title IX offices and activities across the country are in shambles. Sexual assault on campus is an epidemic that, while addressed, has not improved since the passage of the Campus Sexual Assault Victims’ Bill of Rights in 1991. Jennifer Schoewe, a recent finance graduate, is currently suing UC for the mishandling of her Title IX report. She is an incredibly brave survivor who has fearlessly shared her story across various media outlets. “During my initial meeting with the thenTitle IX Coordinator … as well as the meeting with UCPD where I filed my formal reports, I felt both safe and reassured by Jyl and by the detective assigned to my case,” Schoewe said of her first impressions. “They walked me through the process step-by-step, completely at my pace, and were sure to remind me constantly that I was in control, which did make all the difference.” According to UC’s police report on the case, her abuser was charged with rape by force after an incident during UC Welcome Weekend in 2015 where he sexually assaulted Schoewe. He claimed it was consensual sex. She knew it wasn’t. According to UC’s 2016 Annual Crime Report, four on-campus instances of rape were reported, while 20 such cases were reported in neighborhoods immediately off campus. All four on-campus rapes were reported at University Park Apartments. The long-overdue appointment of a leader poses yet another major obstacle for Title IX resources. UC’s Title IX office still does not have a coordinator, even though the job listing on UC Jobs was removed a while ago. The UC community has not yet heard an announcement as to who will be our next Title IX coordinator. Schoewe believes that UC’s lengthy search

for a coordinator is troubling. “It does not surprise me that UC still has yet to hire another Title IX Coordinator,” she said. “I can’t assume the reasons, but I do know firsthand that UC makes no effort to make time a priority … but Title IX has no leadership or a clear procedure, and those are necessary in order to provide students and victims with the most efficient care and protection. Victims especially need to feel confident that their universities will provide

TNR FILE

PROVIDED

Jennifer Schoewe at her 2017 graduation from UC.

Interactive

TNR staff question of the week: What is your favorite song about sex?

“Diced Pineapples” by Rick Ross and Wale. -Mounir Lynch, Opinion Editor

“Hot in Here” by Nelly because I got in trouble when I sang it around my mom as a kid. -David Wysong, Editor-in-Chief “I Wanna Sex You Up” by Color Me Badd. No innuendos there; it’s pretty straight forward. -Erin Couch, Managing Editor

Editor-In-Chief David Wysong

Online Editor Stephanie Smith

Managing Editor Erin Couch

Designer Gabrielle Stichweh

Copy Editor Jacob Fisher

Photo Editor Shae Combs

News Editors Zach Perrin Parker Malatesta Life & Arts Editor Noelle Zielinski

Chief Photographer Aaron Dorsten

Sports Editor Jason Szelest

The Ignition (remix) is a classic for me. - Noelle Zielinski, Life & Arts Editor

Opinion Editor Mounir Lynch

“It Wasn’t Me” by Shaggy. -Jason Szelest, Sports Editor

Newsroom 509 Swift Hall 513-556-5912 Chief.newsrecord@gmail.com

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University of Cincinnati 45221-0135

Things to do this weekend:

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Art on Vine: Show your love of local goods and come out to Art • on Vine at Rhinegeist. Up to 70 local artists will be peddling their art and other wares while you enjoy food from Sartre OTR. Art on Vine makes a donation with every month’s event to a local nonprofit, so you can feel good while you spend away your paycheck. Noon-7 p.m. Sunday. Free. Rhinegeist Brewery. LOVING YOU IS YEEZY Art Show: It’s Kanye West 808s & Heartbreaks • themed art show. Enough said. There will be a live DJ spinning Kanye and R&B tunes. Food will be provided by No Pork On My Fork. 6-11 p.m. Thursday. $5 cover. Vapor Vault Clifton (2601 Vine St.)

Shakespeare on the Rocks: Twelfth Night: CCM Acting’s class of 2018 puts on Shakespeare’s classic tale of tomfoolery at Arnold’s Bar and Grill. Be warned, because according to the Facebook page, there was only one rehearsal for the 11 actors and one director. Show is preceded by improv by the actors. 7 p.m. Monday. Free. Arnold’s Bar and Grill. ArtsWave Days: Date Night: Extend Valentine’s Day for a few days and co,e to Cincy Shakes for an evening of wine tastings and the croons of Tracy Walker. Followed by a performance of “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?” 6p.m. Saturday. Cincinnati Shakespeare Company. $28 student ticket.

Feb. 14, 2018 | newsrecord.org

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