Give yourself lots of love this Valentine’s week
By Adrienne O’Rourke, contributing writer

According to an article published in the New York Times last month, the average American is exposed to 5,000 advertisements per day. Many of these, unfortunately, promote an unrealistic view of what the ideal woman or man is supposed to look like. Being constantly exposed to these confusing media messages often disables individuals to be completely comfortable with themselves. These feelings can lead to eating or exercise disorders and unnecessary stress about how one should look. However, through the “Love Yourself Fair,” UREC’s Group Fitness and Wellness coordinators are trying to alleviate the anxiety that media messages like these can bring. More...

JMU alumnus makes a name for himself with ‘Untitled Rock Show’
By Lauren Loeb, contributing writer

When Steven Smith graduated from JMU in 1994, he had a lot to brag about in regard to his time at the university. He lived in the biggest room on campus, had a roommate named Steven King, battled as a bare and brave Quad-streaker and was the hit drummer of the Harrisonburg-bred band, The Ice Cream Socialists. With a degree in theater, Smith was looking to combine his unique antics and his love for show business. After a few less-than-swanky stints in Hollywood, Smith found himself working for music-television network, Fuse. More...

‘Hannibal’ doesn’t bite at box office
By Eric James, contributing writer

Here’s a note to Thomas Harris, the author of “The Silence of the Lambs:” stop letting money-hungry studios talk you into making undercooked and unnecessary Hannibal Lecter sequels, prequels and spinoffs, such as “Hannibal Rising.” More...

Musical ‘Modern Millie’ brings high-energy dancing, singing
By Katie Hudson, contributing writer

With recent films like “The Producers,” “RENT” and “Chicago,” musicals are back instyle. Now the trend is making its way to JMU’s campus with the latest co-production between the school of theatre and dance and the school of music, “Thoroughly Modern Millie.” More...

AE Comedy Tour brings laughs to JMU
By Will Fawley, contributing writer

The American Eagle Comedy tour is stopping by JMU on Monday as a part of its nationwide search for the funniest college students in the country. More...