Described as a “close friend” by nearly every individual who spoke, Dean McLeod, his life and his legacy were honored in a memorial service in the Athletic Complex on Sunday afternoon.

A call to action, urging all to maintain McLeod’s principles, legacy and attitude of selfless service in order to honor his life, carried through the memorial.

“Jim has been our hero, our role model, our touchstone in time of trouble, our symbol of courage, our friend and our Dean…And now his legacy is in our hands,” Danforth said.

Jeff McLeod spoke lovingly of his older brother, referring to him by his childhood nickname “Sonny.” He mentioned their upbringing in Alabama and the morals, values and faith their parents imparted to them. Jeff McLeod noted how well his brother embodied one of their father’s favorite words of wisdom: “Bite off more than you can chew, and chew it anyway.”

Robert L. Virgil, dean emeritus of the Olin Business School, lauded McLeod’s contributions to the University’s undergraduate culture, and to his own life.

“When I come to Washington University, I see him everywhere,” Virgil said. “He was—no, is—the soul of this culture.”

Following Virgil’s remarks, alumna and John B. Ervin Scholar, Michelle A. Purdy, shared the impact Dean McLeod had on her since their meeting in 1997.

“He was our father away from home, our mentor, our confidant and our friend. He was a role model, in particular for me, as an African American woman, for what was possible and what one can achieve while maintaining humility and calmness,” she said.

Provost Edward S. Macias joked about his weekly two-and-a-half-hour breakfasts at a local dive with McLeod, who he described as one of his closest friends. Referencing “The Wizard of Oz,” he noted that McLeod had the ability to draw from individuals the courage, bravery and heart that they had all along.

Ronald Thompson, who serves on the Board of Trustees, described McLeod as a “giant in mortal’s skin” and praised his commitment to creating the most fulfilling educational experience possible for all students.

“He recognized diversity as a requirement for a world-class education,” Thompson said.

Thompson concluded by thanking Danforth and Chancellor Wrighton for recognizing McLeod’s potential early on.

Harvey Fields, assistant director of academic programs in the Center for Advanced Learning, spoke briefly of his friendship and shared faith with Dean McLeod before reading a few unattributed verses of scripture.

Juniors Marcus Brown and Petra Greenidge then sang a duet of “The Prayer” that received a standing ovation from the audience.

Another member of the Board of Trustees, Andrew M. Bursky, also discussed his friendship with the Dean, specifically noting his admiration for how generously McLeod would give his time.

“Jim, unlike me, was never in a hurry,” he said.

Student Union President John Harrison York echoed this sentiment in his own remarks, noting that McLeod “always made time for the individual” and “understood the impact that brief conversations could have.”

Dean Sharon Stahl of the College of Arts and Sciences shared some of Dean McLeod’s frequently-used phrases that will continue to influence her life, including, “It’s a teachable moment,” “Be kind to one another,” and “Words matter.” She closed her remarks by reciting a recently published Shel Silverstein poem entitled “When I am gone, what will you do?”

Professors Gerald Early and Wayne Fields came together to the podium, but spoke separately.

“He believed all greatness was built on goodness,” Early said. “He believed, so you believed too.”

Wayne Fields spoke of two models of leadership in the Bible, the prophet and the pastor or shepherd. He argued that McLeod was a demonstration of the latter, the gentler of the two.

“He was a rarity in an academic institution, a visionary who got things done,” Fields said.

Sara McLeod, the Dean’s daughter, decided to share a few of the “quirky and intimate” aspects of her father, speaking of his messy office and fashion choices. She thanked the University for its condolences and support, and urged its members to keep the memory of her father alive in their hearts.

Before Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton made his closing remarks, a choir made up of all the campus a cappella groups performed a concert piece called “Sing Me to Heaven.”

The service was followed by a reception held in the Danforth University Center.

Students and alumni said they found the service a fitting tribute.

“It’s a great reminder to staff and students now to try to continue his legacy by striving to do that,” senior Anna Constantino said. “It’s incredible to me to have someone who has such a lasting legacy at our school.”

Past and present Ervin scholars were at the ceremony to offer their respects as well.

“It was just nice to know that there was an administrator that took such a personal interest in students. He really cared about what’s going on in all parts of your life,” said Rachel Phillips, an Ervin scholar who graduated in 2007.

“For me, he really created a community that was one of the reasons I came to Wash. U.,” senior and Ervin Scholar Jennifer Jeffers said. “I can’t really think of a better example of how to live a fulfilling life than Dean McLeod. He really knew how to make you feel important when he was talking to you, and really put the focus on you.”

Minimalism. Phoebe Philo stole the show this season with her fundamentally minimalist fall collection. With combinations of black trousers, white blouses, neutral colored coats, black blazers and subtle splashes of leather and silk, her collection seems easy—and, ultimately, functional. There is nothing fussy about these looks. On the contrary, it is a collection of timeless basics and comfortable knits that just so happen make a gal feel both put together and at ease. So, if you’re seeking an understated trend that will last you longer than just this season, minimalist dressing might be your calling.

1950s. Attention all vintage shoppers: 1950s-inspired silhouettes have made their comeback in the ever-changing fashion world, with Louis Vuitton and Prada being this trend’s biggest advocate. Hourglass shape dresses, retro bustiers and below-the-knee pencil skirts lit up this fall’s runways. And for all of you ladies who happen to be sick, tired and in pain from your five inch stilettos, you’ll be happy to know that kitten heels are back this season.

Men’s Apparel. The feminist in me smiled triumphantly after seeing Chloe, Celine and Alexander Wang “man up” in their fall runways. This trend just goes to show that whatever men can do, we can do better, and yes—I’m talking about menswear. Ankle-length trousers and tailored suit jackets are just the beginning. We no longer have to title this look as “borrowed-from-the-boys;” we can simply call it our own. Rest assured, I’m gloating.

Faux Fur. I’m sure PETA will be pleased to know that faux fur is back… in a big way. Chanel’s runway was loaded with a slew of faux fur pieces that included coats, pants, boots and even bags! Whether you’d like to channel celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe by wearing a faux fur vest, or go head-to-toe as Karl Lagerfeld suggests, you can be sure that the animal lovers of the world won’t be coming after you this season.

Camel Tones. Camel hues are everywhere this fall, particularly in the form of jackets and wool coats. This neutral shade will provide you with the versatility to spice up or tone down any look. It’s classic, relevant and chic, so if you’re looking for the cherry on top of your minimalistic-1950s inspired-menswear-faux fur ensemble, a camel coat might do the trick.

Matt Mitgang | Student Life

The women’s volleyball prepares for the season as head coach Rich Luenemann, left, instructs the freshmen through drills.

Freshmen athletes have always found ways to make names for themselves at Wash. U., and this year looks to be no exception.

“While maybe initially they have a modest role in terms of the team, when they stay with it and they develop, then they make a real contribution that results in success,” athletic director John Schael said.

A majority of teams have not finalized their rosters for the season, with the soccer and tennis teams still conducting tryouts. However, several freshmen have already begun practice with the football and volleyball squads, and early indications suggest that they have impressed.

“Every one of them is pushing for significant playing time, and some are pushing for starting time,” volleyball head coach Rich Luenemann said. “We have more depth than we’ve ever had.”

Last year, freshmen across several sports made themselves known across campus for their achievements. Current sophomores Kelly Pang and Marilee Fisher were vital to the volleyball team’s national championship run, while Hannah Buck and Melanie Walsh shined for women’s golf.

“For a freshman to come in, learn the nuances of our offense, execute so well, and be a strong part of our national championship says a lot about [Fisher],” Luenemann said of his setter. “There’s no doubt about it. She did a tremendous job.”

But to coaches, the boost to team chemistry that those contributions provide is just as important as the freshmen’s actions on the field.

“I knew that [Hannah and Melanie] were going to come in and be probably the top two players on the team,” women’s golf coach Sean Curtis said. “On the other hand, I wasn’t sure what kind of effect it would have on the team as a whole, and it was a very positive effect.”

As recruiting efforts continue, the school’s recent successes surely will help attract prospective athletes. Six national championships in the last three school years have drawn significant attention to the athletic program at Wash. U.

Matt Mitgang | Student Life

However, coaches maintain that the flexibility of the Wash. U. program will lead to interest regardless of the number of championships won.

“[Recruits] want to enjoy the kind of academic opportunity that the university offers, but yet still compete at a very, very high level,” Luenemann said. “There’s that segment of really strong recruits out there who may have Division 1 potential but say ‘wait a minute, I don’t want volleyball to be a job’.”

While it remains to be seen how successful the Bears will be in the 2010-2011 year, one thing is for sure: between the athletic program and Wash. U. as a whole, more and more talented high school student-athletes will continue to look at St. Louis, Mo., as a four-year destination.

Supporters of the Loop trolley project were ecstatic this July to learn that their dream of constructing a 2.2 mile trolley line on the Delmar Loop is coming closer to fruition, thanks to a $24.99 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The grant is funded by the Urban Circulator Program and aims to increase public transportation in cities. St. Louis was one of only five cities selected to receive the grant.

The Loop Trolley Co. (LTC) is a local nonprofit headed by Blueberry Hill Restaurant owner Joe Edwards.

After LTC failed to procure a $51 million TIGER grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation in a series of fundraising setbacks earlier this year, the newfound aid comes as an encouraging windfall.

“It’s just wonderful news,” Edwards said. “The Loop trolley will be a valuable asset for all of St. Louis because it will inspire and draw economic investment, stabilize neighborhoods, and attract tourism.”

Additionally, voters living in the Delmar and DeBaliviere area have passed a one-cent sales tax last year that will generate $400,000 to $500,000 annually for the trolley.

With the grant and tax initiatives accounted for, LTC still needs to fundraise about $8 million through donations in order to cover the full estimated start-up cost of $44 million.

According to LTC, the benefits of bringing trolleys back to the Loop are many. Because the Loop Trolley will run from Trinity Avenue down Delmar Blvd. and turn right on DeBaliviere Blvd., it will connect two existing MetroLink Stations to the attractions in the Loop as well as Forest Park.

Edwards also maintains that since the trolleys would be electric-battery hybrids, the system would be a green alternative to transportation on the Loop and would create pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.

“With the trolleys, fewer people would have to rely on their cars or deal with the costs of driving, and I think that will help out the young people tremendously,” Edwards said.

Supporters believe that having trolleys on the Loop will boost the area’s residential, commercial and recreational development.

“We already know of two to three new conventions that will be held in St. Louis thanks in part to the excitement of the trolleys. Hotels in downtown St. Louis can also benefit from the added tourism,” Edwards said.

Washington University is also an advocate of the Loop trolley project. The University has consistently expressed its interest over the years in the continued development and vibrancy of the Loop.

“The Loop …. is an important asset to the University.  As such, the University has supported it’s stabilization and organic growth in a number of important ways,” Cheryl Adelstein, the Director of Community Relations and Local Government Affairs, wrote in a statement.

Despite its support of growth of the Loop in general through acquiring properties, the University has made no financial commitment to the trolley project.

Although riders will have to pay a fee to ride the trolley, Edwards hopes LTC can collaborate with Metro to create a seamless public transportation system. LTC projects that ground will be broken on the project by late 2011, and the trolley will be open for public use by 2012.

WUSTL Photo Services

Many pitchers, after undergoing the operation, seem like a different pitcher the next time they toe the rubber. Some never pitch again.

“Before you really get back, if you get back…the rehab and the time to get back into the show is probably now 12 months or a little less. Ordinarily, it’s an 18-month process,” baseball head coach Ric Lessmann said.

Hrovat started feeling the pain at the end of his senior season in high school.

“It started with gradual elbow pain…but it was something you could throw through, so I just didn’t worry about it,” Hrovat said. “I was pitching lights out [in one game], and then in the seventh inning, I went out, got one out, and then against the next batter, I threw a ball that went like 40 feet and just absolutely bounced it…I didn’t really know anything was bad at that point. I didn’t feel anything terrible.”

In the days following this game, it was discovered that Hrovat’s UCL was partially torn. An ineffective attempt at resting the elbow led to the decision to have the surgery.

After getting the procedure done at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in October 2007, Hrovat, a native of Naperville, Ill., started the first phase of his recovery.

“Most people are fine after [11 to 13 weeks of rehab]…but I still had a lot of pain in my elbow,” Hrovat said. “After trying to throw for about six weeks, I wasn’t really making a ton of progress and I said, ‘This really doesn’t feel much better. Something is still wrong.’”

His ulnar nerve had detached and was inflamed, requiring a second surgery in May. By the time he had fully healed from both surgeries and was able to pitch again, it was June 2008.

“A lot of his rehab went on during the fall, when we didn’t have games, so I think once he got out to pitch last spring, it was just one big surprise to see that he was pretty much back at full strength,” senior pitcher Jeremy Rogoff said.

Rogoff, who also underwent Tommy John surgery in 2006, helped ease Hrovat along the recovery process.

“When we both went through it, we both were really worried that [the surgery] wasn’t going to work out,” Rogoff said. “[Hrovat] just needed somebody to constantly reassure him that his arm was eventually going to heal and he was going to be able to throw as well, if not better, than he did before the surgery.”

Though Hrovat needed no additional surgeries, pain in his arm, elbow and shoulder continued.

“Sophomore year, I was pitching in games…and I was telling myself, ‘This kills. This can’t be right.’ [Rogoff told me], ‘No, the pain is normal,’” Hrovat said. “I was able to just keep telling myself, ‘no, it’s fine. You’re stuck with it. You can throw through it.’”

Gradually, the pain and soreness departed.

In his two full seasons of pitching, Hrovat has posted a 5.13 ERA and a 9-2 record. In his last start, on April 18, he struck out 14 batters en route to a 9-1 win over Knox College.

“With Hrovat, I still think he may be a little bit better even next year,” Lessmann said. “He’s had a nice year for us, definitely better than he was last year…so I have high hopes. We keep pitch counts, but he gets up around 100 [pitches], and he’s still throwing okay. He doesn’t seem to have any aftermath [from the surgery].”

While he has been successful the past two years, Hrovat, a left-handed pitcher, is unsure if the surgery had any effect on his mechanics.

“I’d like to see videotape of me [pitching] beforehand and afterwards,” he said. “I haven’t really looked at it too closely. I have always thrown a little goofy, maybe it’s the reason why I’ve been effective. Just the way I throw is not natural, so it works out.”

Hrovat’s next start is projected to be on Sunday, May 2, at DePauw University. The first pitch is scheduled for 1:30 p.m.

Courtesy of Alexandra Levitt

Sophomore Jeremy Klein, aka Digital Logic, will DJ at W.I.L.D.

Student Life: Can you tell us a little about how you got into DJ-ing?

Jeremy Klein: Well in high school I went to a ton of concerts, got really into electronic music. I had a couple friends who started getting into DJ-ing and bought the equipment, and every time I went over to their places, I would play with it for hours. That sort of got me into it. And over the summer before I got to Wash. U., I bought some equipment. That’s all I needed for months at a time.

SL: What acts do you look toward for inspiration?

JK: I’d say mostly electronic acts. I’ve seen Boys Noize, Justice, Cromeo, Crystal Castles, Proxy, all of MSTRKRFT—like all these big electronic acts. Every time I go to these shows, it’s just unbelievable to be dancing with hundreds of people. Everyone’s going nuts. That’s really what inspires me.

SL: What do you think of the St. Louis electronica scene?

JK: Eh. I mean, there’s a little bit. There’s like, random raves and random DJs that are pretty cool. No one that I’ve been really impressed with, but there’s something to do.

SL: Do you play much around campus?

JK: Well, I did a lot of Myers parties, I did some frat parties. I live in Myers, so we’ve been just constantly throwing things on our floor.

SL: What kind of equipment do you use?

JK: I have a Numark DXM06 Mixer in my laptop. I also do a little bit of competition; I use a MIDI Controller for that.

SL: Why don’t you tell us a little bit about the contest that you won?

JK: You may know better than I would, but I think it started out as somewhere between 12 and 15 DJs. They did this audition, which was just a 10-minute set a week before the competition with a panel of judges. Basically, they narrowed it down to five finalists. And then the finalists did a competition in the DUC, where each DJ got a 30-minute set. They judged based off of crowd participation, overall energy. A bunch of different categories, creativity. I’d say one of the biggest factors for me winning was just having a ton of my friends there. They were awesome. They came out and just danced their faces off. It was pretty sweet.

SL: Were you impressed by any of the other DJs there?

JK: [Senior] John Huang was really, really good. He’s been doing it a lot longer than I have. He’s technically really impressive. We’re really different styles. I think it ended up being style choice.

SL: Could you describe your style?

JK: Like I said, I’m a lot more into the electronic genre. I’m a little more, I guess—I don’t know if the technical terms are going to help you understand it. I DJ at a higher BPM (beats per minute) rate. He does more hip-hop stuff.

SL: So you’re more like—give an act that you think people could identify you with.

JK: I would hope people would know Boys Noize. If not, then Justice, MSTRKRFT. But I don’t know if I’m like anyone that Wash. U. students know that well. And I think that’s something I like, that I’m hoping to bring to Wash. U., is sort of a different kind of music that they haven’t listened to.

SL: And what are you thinking of bringing to W.I.L.D.? Are you working on any new stuff?

JK: A little bit of new stuff. I don’t think any of my stuff is really at a point where I can integrate it into my sets that well. I’m getting there. I’d say that right now, I’ll be mixing, obviously, on the stage, you know, combining pieces of other people’s stuff. Something that I’m doing differently, that I haven’t done in the past in any of my other sets, that I didn’t do in the competition, is that I’m integrating a little bit of dubstep, which is a very different style of music than what I normally play. I’m pretty excited for that; I think it’ll be a cool separation.

SL: Are you excited for any of the other acts at W.I.L.D.?

JK: Yeah. Yeah I am. I really like the Cold War Kids. I’m hoping that I set them in a way that they’ll sort of be able to roll off of me, but it’s tough, because we’re such different styles. It’s going to be interesting to see the energy change in W.I.L.D., from John Huang, who’s actually DJ-ing into Shwayze, and then myself, and Cold War Kids. It’s so many different styles going on at W.I.L.D., and I think in a way that’s a really good thing, because it gets a really diverse group of music. But at the same time, it’s also going to be difficult to maintain a mood throughout W.I.L.D. So we’ll see how it goes, I think it’ll be a lot of fun.

SL: Is there anything else we should know about your DJ-ing career?

JK: Hmm. Not particularly. I’m just hoping to make people dance and sort of appreciate electronic music a little more. I saw Passion Pit come and, in my opinion, totally change people’s perceptions of that genre. Before they were here, I didn’t hear Passion Pit playing anywhere on campus, and now I hear it all the time, which I love. I’ve been a huge fan of Passion Pit for a while. I’m kind of hoping to do that a little bit, to bring something different to campus.

We at Washington University in St. Louis are excited that you will be visiting our University to deliver the 2010 Commencement address. The graduating class you will address is, like the larger student body, deeply concerned by the challenge climate change poses to this, and future generations. We sincerely admire your leadership and commitment to addressing this threat, and it is our hope that you will inspire us in our search for solutions to the gravest problem of our time.

As you prepare for your visit to Washington University, we wish to make you aware of recent developments in campus culture regarding energy and environmental issues. As you know, Washington University hosts a research program entitled the Consortium for Clean Coal Utilization. While many students support the scientific research being conducted by the Consortium, the student body has taken serious issue with the title under which the research is conducted. Last November, the Washington University Student Union unanimously passed a resolution condemning the phrase “clean coal” as “an industry marketing term intended to obscure negative effects of coal extraction, combustion, and disposal.” The Washington University student body has clearly and consistently articulated its view that “clean coal” is an advertising slogan inappropriate for use in a scientific context.

In light of formally expressed student opposition to its use, we respectfully request that you refrain from employing the term “clean coal” during your speech at our Commencement ceremony. If your speech requires reference to specific energy technologies, we respectfully request that you use their scientific names (e.g., “carbon capture and sequestration”). We believe that, in doing so, you will better educate your listeners.

As secretary of energy, you set the standard for dialogue on energy issues. We encourage you to carry forward an attention to rhetoric in your future speaking engagements, focusing on clear and ingenuous language in reference to energy technology.

We look forward to your visit.

Todd Zimmer, Class of 2010, Washington University Climate Justice Alliance
Jenny Marienau, Class of 2010, Washington University Climate Justice Alliance
Kady McFadden, Class of 2010, Washington University Climate Justice Alliance
Melissa Legge, Class of 2010, Washington University Climate Justice Alliance
William Fischer, Class of 2010, Washington University Climate Justice Alliance
Fernando Cutz, Class of 2010 President
Chase Sackett, Class of 2010, Former Speaker of the Senate
Jeff Nelson, Class of 2010, Former Student Union President

The Aristocats, the all-Disney campus a capella group, and friends performed a spontaneous rendition of “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” to celebrate the upcoming release of Toy Story 3 on June 18, 2010.

“We thought Senior Day was cursed,” senior Megan Fieser said. “The past two years it’s been rained out. It’s just not the same without a game.”

Saturday’s Senior Day was supposed to be a doubleheader against Missouri Baptist University, but the second game was washed out. However, before the rain turned into a torrent, the Lady Bears picked up a 2-1 eight-inning victory, winning by the ‘silliest of reasons’ according to Fieser.

With Fieser on second base, classmate Ashton Hitchcock laid down a sacrifice bunt, advancing Fieser to third. Sophomore Corissa Santos and senior Ally Berenter were then intentionally walked to load the bases in the bottom of the eighth inning. “I don’t know why they tried a force at home with the fastest runner on third,” Fieser said. “It’s silly to walk any of our batters.”

Fieser strolled across home plate as junior Claire Voris was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded to win the game in extra innings. “It was a messy finish to a messy day,” Voris said.

Voris gave up a solo home run to Missouri Baptist freshman Jenna Bentlage with two outs recorded in the top of the second inning. Voris also struck out 10 as she picked up her 50th career victory.

Voris then made up for her mistake by doubling to lead off the fourth inning. Senior Carter Malouf advanced Voris to third base on a fielder’s choice before classmate Caitlyn Hoffman created Voris’ scoring opportunity. Hoffman popped up to left field, and an error by the Spartan’s catcher led to the tying run.

For the rest of the game, the teams battled rain, drying the ball after one or two pitches, and struggled to score another run due to strong pitching backed up with solid defense.

The Spartans had two potent opportunities to take the game from the Bears. The first arose in the seventh inning. A speedy Spartan tried to sneak by Malouf at home after another Spartan had singled. “Even if you’re on second with two outs, you’re always going home as hard as you can,” Malouf said. Cait [Hoffman] was ready. I was turning and yelling for it, and she was already throwing the ball.” Malouf tagged the sliding Spartan for the final out of the inning.

The second opportunity came in the eighth, with runners on second and third and just one out recorded. Voris struck out the Spartan batter and then induced a fly ball that was snagged by freshman Ashley Janssen. “You just got to stick in the moment, and just work slowly…pitch by pitch,” Voris said. “You don’t really think about who’s where.”

Prior to the game, the seniors were honored by their teammates. “[The underclassmen] really show that they love playing with us,” Fieser said. “That’s what’s important about senior day.”

In their four years, Fieser, Malouf, Hoffman and Hitchcock have captured three University Athletic Association titles and three NCAA tournament appearances, including a trip to the College World Series in 2007. “This team will miss a lot of those ‘Fabulous Four,’” Berenter said.

Berenter and Voris are competing against each other for the ‘Black and Blue Award.’ Amy Vukovich, who graduated in 2008, and Berenter held the record, being hit by the pitch six times in a single season. When Berenter was hit by Missouri Baptist pitcher Julie Kemp, she reclaimed her title. “We’ve still got some games left and I’m looking to beat it,” Berenter said. “That’s my one true goal I’ve set out this season.” Just two innings later, Voris was hit for the game-winning run, setting the new single-season record at seven.

The Bears face the Division II University of Missouri-St. Louis in a doubleheader on Saturday, May 1, before returning home on Sunday with a doubleheader against Fontbonne University at noon.

‘Sex and the City 2’
Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda are back with another installment in the successful “Sex and the City” series. After the first film made the transfer to television, its success warranted a sequel. Are Big and Carrie going to stay together? Is Samantha going to find love? Why is Miley Cyrus in this movie? All of these questions and more will be answered this summer. More fashion, sex, city, comedy and drama are no doubt in store for the four girls as they navigate love and life.

‘The Karate Kid’
Things aren’t as simple as they were in the ’80s. Hollywood doesn’t do “remakes” anymore. They make “homages” and “reboots,” and this movie is definitely one of those last two. That means that Jackie Chan plays Mr. Miyagi—er, Mr. Han—and teaches Dre Parker karate—I mean, kung-fu. Things are different now, big whoop. Will Smith’s son, Jaden, isn’t as adorable as he was in “The Pursuit of Happyness,” but he looks just as endearing. However, the trailer is a little serious for Cadenza’s tastes. Hopefully director Harold Zwart can inject some fun into the final product.

‘Eclipse’
The third installment in the massive “Twilight” phenomenon, “Eclipse,” will be released this summer, featuring sudden stars Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart and Taylor Lautner. This time around, the vampires and werewolves will have to band together to fight off an army of evil vampires who are trying to kill Bella. Even within this shaky alliance, vampire Edward and werewolf Jacob will duke it out to win Bella’s heart. The romance will have teenage girls swooning and screeching to the box office all summer (and Taylor’s countless shirtless scenes probably won’t hurt either).

‘The A-Team’
They’re back! But it’s been 24 years since the show ended, so why now? There’s a question of relevancy, but there’s also a counter-argument, because everyone knows about the A-Team (if not directly, then tangentially through hummed theme songs or conversations after 1-800-COLLECT commercials). For better or for worse, the show has been implanted into our social conscious, and the movie will surely capitalize on that. Sure, there’s the fear that it could end up being the next “G.I. Joe,” but remember, it could just as easily be the next “Star Trek,” too.

‘Eat Pray Love’
Based on the best-selling book, “Eat Pray Love” follows a recent divorcée, Elizabeth Gilbert (played by Julia Roberts), as she decides that she needs to change her life. After her divorce, Elizabeth decides to travel the world, living for months in Italy, India and Bali, trying to find what her life was missing. As if Roberts and exotic locations aren’t enough, “Eat Pray Love” is directed by “Glee” creator Ryan Murphy and produced by Brad Pitt.

‘Inception’
Following his successful turn in “Shutter Island,” Leonardo DiCaprio will be starring in yet another sci-fi thriller, “Inception.” Directed by Christopher Nolan (who directed “The Dark Knight”), “Inception” follows an agent who can give people drugs in order to venture into their minds, steal their secrets and sell them to the highest bidder. While this certainly seems like an ingenious business scheme, there is no question that things will take a turn for the worst, as the mind is not something you would want to mess with. Trippy and thrilling, “Inception” will have you on the edge of your seat.

‘Step Up 3D’
The successful and entertaining dance series, “Step Up,” is going to release its third film, and this one will be in 3-D! “Step Up 3D” will be released this summer and will star “Moose” from “Step Up 2: The Streets” and Camille Gage from the original “Step Up” (she played Channing Tatum’s sister). Speaking of Tatum, the actor, who launched the series, will also appear in the third film. With hip-hop and dancing galore, “Step Up 3D” will for sure be one of my favorite movies this summer.

‘Iron Man 2’
After battling for sobriety, Robert Downey Jr. began his comeback with a splash in 2008’s “Iron Man.” What hasn’t yet been said about his fantastic turn as Tony Stark? His witticisms were perfect for the role, bringing a sense of comedic timing to a funny flick. And no, “Iron Man” wasn’t “funny for a superhero movie”; it was genuinely funny, clever and any number of superlatives. Gwyneth Paltrow’s game of push-and-pull with Downey could fill a rom-com on its own. Mickey Rourke and Scarlett Johansson will fit into the sequel nicely, but let’s not kid ourselves. The new movie is, and always has been, about Robert Downey Jr. His renaissance continues.

‘Salt’
It’s unclear if Angelina Jolie’s character, the bad-ass Evelyn Salt, is working for us, the Americans, or our star-crossed enemies, the Russians. Of course, car crashes, gun fights and explosions are all but guaranteed in this thrill ride, but if director Phillip Noyce knows what’s good for him, he’ll raid Paul Greengrass’ (director of the last two “Bourne” movies) diary for tips on getting an action movie to marry a thoughtful story. We’ll see how Greengrass’ vision pans out when the movie is released in late July. Until then, we must ask ourselves, “Who is Salt?”

‘Robin Hood’
Russell Crowe. Ridley Scott. Put them in the same sentence, and “Gladiator” fans tend to sweat and roar in excitement. But what should we expect from this new exploration into the legendary figure of Robin Hood? There hasn’t been a serious movie on the well-meaning thief, his merry men or his tights in years. It’s not likely that Crowe’s Hood will have many cheery companions anyway. Think “Kingdom of Heaven,” and expect something epic with a deep message. Under the right guidance, this could be a very good thing.