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1-15-2010 The Beacon, January 15, 2010 Florida International University

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This work is brought to you for free and open access by the Special Collections and University Archives at FIU Digital Commons. It has been accepted for inclusion in The aP nther Press (formerly The Beacon) by an authorized administrator of FIU Digital Commons. For more information, please contact [email protected]. A Forum for Free Student Expression at Florida International University Vol. 22, Issue 54 www.fi usm.com Friday, January 15, 2010 South Beach Comedy Festival FIU Track and Field schedule returns with Comedy Central crew released for 2010 PAGE 7 PAGE 10

SPOTLIGHT AT THE BAY PAGE 4 University Continuing the reacts to

SJMC Alumni will be spending their Saturday rescuing endangered devastation mahogany trees in Oleta State Park in honor of The Second Annual Panther Service Day. See how you too can join them. University honors rights activist in Haiti AT THE BAY PAGE 4 SGC-BBC: The Broward Pines Center PHILIPPE BUTEAU fast Friday morning from 8 to 10:30 a.m. CHRISTOPHER NECUZE senator has been approved for Staff Writer marked by keynote speaker Michael Eric Editor in Chief removal due to a lack of attendance and participation. However, this Dyson. could be the case due to a lack of The 81st birthday of Martin Luther Dyson, a professor of sociology at The magnitude 7.0 earthquake that struck near communication. King, Jr. is Jan. 15, and the University will Georgetown University, will be addressing the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince late Tuesday afternoon sent shudders through the University’s OPINION PAGE 6 commemorate it with a week of events on the theme of “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit both campuses. of the Dream.” After the breakfast, which Haitian community, with many students reporting The events started Jan. 12 and will is in its 19th year, Dyson will be signing little to no success in contacting their relatives on D eabooks he’s written, which will be avail- the island. end Jan. 20. Multicultural Programs and Services, the organization planning and With preliminary death toll estimates as high as 500,000, as reported by The Associated Press, the hosting the events, will have a break- DREAM, page 3 possible catastrophe stands to be among the worst Senator Harry Reid proves that he is a moron with questionable statements natural disasters ever recorded in the Western about President Obama’s race; the hemisphere. perfect opportunity for the Republican Students reacted to the news by supporting party to take a bite at him. peers with family members in the region, and by LIFE! PAGE 7 expressing utter shock that something so terrible Album review: Vampire Weekend’s could happen to such a poor country. latest album, Contra, is unfairly criticized for being unauthentic. “It’s devastating because we can’t contact them right now,” said English major Vinchina Paulina, SPORTS PAGE 12 who was born in Port -au-Prince but moved to the FIU swim team members discuss U.S. when she was 4. “We just don’t know their their transition to America and adjusting to college life. status.” Paulina, like many others students, has rela- SPORTS PAGE 12 tives in Haiti’s capital city and has been unable The Beacon sits down and has a to reach them due to the collapse of basic services Q&A with new FIU football defen- sive coordinator Geo Collins. such as water, electricity and telephone lines. “My father’s blood pressure actually went up the night we found out,” Paulina said. “We’re worried about him too; he’s worried about his UPCOMING EVENTS sister … it’s very traumatizing.” Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast, Jan. Though food and supply drives are planned and 15, 8 a.m. Celebrate this holiday with a free breakfast in the GC Ballrooms. the initial public reaction in terms of international aid has been substantial, those with relatives on Pinecrest Gardens Fine Arts Fest, Jan. the island are particularly confl icted. 16, 10 a.m. For free you can attend this “It’s hard because we’re not physically there,” Arts Festival at the Pinecrest Gardens. Paulina said. “So you feel kind of helpless.” Miami Symphony Orchestra, Jan. 17, Junior international relations major Dalourny 8 p.m. For $15-75, you can enjoy the classi- UNIVERSITY-WIDE COUNCIL Nemorin was not born in Haiti, but travels to the cal sounds at the Knight Concert Hall. country every year for mission work. – More events can be found in our Monday “I’ve talked to a lot of my Haitian friends, and and Friday issues of Life!. Council discusses band’s return we don’t know who’s going to go out and rescue these people,” Nemorin said. “They don’t have 9- 1-1; the only people who can help them don’t even WEATHER FRANCISCO MARADIAGA There was no explicit oppo- a program that had to cut its Staff Writer sition to the new band by the cheerleading team,” he said. live in the country. They are depending on us.” FRIDAY Even prior to the earthquake, Haiti was consid- Mostly Cloudy UWC, but some wondered “Athletics does not have money LOW: 67 HIGH: 75 In their fi rst meeting of the about the role of the Athletics to operate [some of] its sports ered to be one of the poorest and least developed countries in the world, with an estimated 80 percent SATURDAY semester, the University-wide Department. In the new incar- programs.” Scattered T-Storms Council discussed the proposed nation of the marching band, New details regarding the of its population living in poverty, according to the LOW: 68 HIGH: 79 student-funded marching band, Athletics will provide no fi nan- band were made available CIA World Factbook. SUNDAY and dealt with a schedule cial support. This lead to an during the meeting. According “When I got the news, I remember thinking to T-Showers confl ict that had elections taking incensed defense of the plan by to the SGC-MMC president, myself: what else can happen to these people?” LOW: 61 HIGH: 77 place the week of Passover. SGC-MMC President Anthony all new band members must be said Nemorin, who also serves as the cultural chair The Jan. 13 meeting held Rionda. FIU students or enrolled in a for the Black Student Union. “These people had CONTACTS at Modesto Maidique Campus “It’s not us and them, it’s non-credit course. nothing and now they have even less. How much worse can it get?” Editor in Chief ...... 305-348-1580 was the fi rst time the UWC, us,” Rionda said, pounding the “We will not be paying non- chris.necuze@ usm.com which is made up of student table. “And it’s not Athletics’, FIU students to play in the Even people on the island itself were having MMC O ce ...... 305-348-2709 trouble communicating with loved ones who were news@ usm.com government leaders from both it’s FIU’s marching band.” band,” Rionda said. campuses, discussed the new Rionda pointed out that In addition, everyone inter- only across town. BBC O ce ...... 305-919-4722 “I heard from my aunt who said her side of Port- bbc@ usm.com marching band proposal that Athletics did not have the ested in joining the band will au-Prince was not affected heavily,” said biochem- Tips & Corrections ...... 305-348-2709 will be heavily funded through fi nancial capabilities to be a have to try out, including any tips@ usm.com Activity and Services fee that all contributor. istry major Hema Pierre. “But she has not heard Advertising ...... 305-348-6994 UWC, page 3 advertising@ usm.com students pay as part of tuition. “We can’t put a band in HAITI, page 2 2 The Beacon – Friday, January 15, 2010 NEWS www.fi usm.com

NEWS FLASH Interim general counsel appointed NATIONAL GABRIEL ARRARÁS spanning 31 years.” sylvania Law School, where she was China censors Google’s response against Asst. News Director Before arriving at FIU, Garcia was a school representative in the Philip J. censorship a member of the law firm of Gunster, Jessup International Law Moot Court University President Mark Rosen- Yoakley, Valdes-Fauli & Stewart, P.A. Competition,” an e-mail sent by the China news agencies censored news regard- berg announced the appointment of and, prior to that, served as an asso- University read. ing Google’s announcement that it will consider Isis Carbajal de Garcia as interim ciate general counsel at the Univer- “Isis is admitted to the U.S. ending operations in the country after it imposed general counsel for Florida Interna- sity of Florida for 13 years. Supreme Court, is an active member internet censorship against the search giant. tional University. She has also served as a staff of the Florida Bar and an inactive Media agencies in China began removing In an e-mail to the members of the attorney with the U.S. Department of member of the Pennsylvania Bar.” references to “free speech and “surveillance” in University community, Rosenberg Education’s Office for Civil Rights A search committee will be Google’s statements. thanked the previous general counsel, and as a legal intern with the U.S. appointed “shortly” to conduct a This situation stemmed from a series of cyber Cristina Mendoza, for her hard work Department of Housing and Urban national search for the permanent attacks launched against the company’s computer and dedication. Development and Community Legal general counsel, Rosenberg said. systems that targeted Gmail accounts of human According to Rosenberg, “Isis Services, Inc. “I am confident that Isis will keep rights proponents in China. has served as deputy general counsel “Carbajal de Garcia received her the General Counsel’s Office running since 1997 and brings with her an B.A., with high honors, from the smoothly and provide the highest exemplary record of legal work in University of Florida and her law level of legal service,” he added. Subpoenas sent pertaining to AIG scandal both the public and private sectors degree from the University of Penn- The Federal Reserve Bank of New York was subpoenaed by a House committee to provide all of Timothy Geithner’s communications pertain- Earthquake ‘could end country’ ing to the bailout of insurance giant American International Group. HAITI, page 1 pressure along the faults to According to BusinessWeek, the order issued build up,” said earth science by the House Oversight and Reform Committee from my uncle and his side professor Grenville Draper, will help make a decision to pay back banks that of the family, who live in the who specializes in Carib- bought insurance from AIG. most affected area.” bean geology. “So these The report added that the New York Fed “had Reports coming out of the big earthquakes occur more resisted” sending over communications without a capital described a fl attened infrequently.” subpoena. The order also requested e-mails and city, with signifi cant damage “But their infrequency phone logs from various other New York Fed to the city’s historical makes them particularly officials. district. Many of Port-au- dangerous because many Prince’s most famous land- generations pass without marks have been destroyed, people feeling anything more - Compiled by Jorge Valens including the Presiden- than a temblor,” Draper said. tial Palace and the Port-au- “So they don’t really have Prince Cathedral. the perception that there is “It’s very shocking,” said an earthquake hazard.” second-year grad student Draper attributed the CORRECTIONS Zakina Ogbourne. “It didn’t mass devastation with the hit me until a friend told epicenter being so close to On the issue dated Jan. 11, 2010 the article titled me that their friend was the capital, and said that “Obama’s foreign policy challenge,” the writer name missing.” because Port-au-Prince was was credited as Brian Alonzo. His correct name is Brian While an earthquake in built primarily on a river Alonso. the Caribbean may come gravel foundation, rather than The Beacon will gladly change any errors. Call our as a surprise to most, geol- a solid rock one, the vibra- MMC offi ce at 305-348-2709 or BBC at 305-919- ogists have been warning tions from the earthquake 4722. about the high possibility of were actually amplifi ed.

seismic activity in the region Haiti is also missing set JORGE VALENS/THE BEACON for years. building codes, and build- The southern part of Haiti ings are often shoddily Sophmore Eric Allen, public relations major, tables in front lies along the Enriquillo- constructed due to a lack of of the Graham Center fountain to collect money, canned Plantain Garden fault zone, resources. goods, and other supplies for the relief efforts in Haiti. a transform strike-slip fault “My colleagues and I EDITORIAL BOARD INFORMATION similar to the San Andreas have discussed about when Fault which runs through we thought the big was capital,” Olson said. “When “There is no good EDITOR IN CHIEF The Beacon is published on Mondays, California and caused the going to happen in Hispan- you have a disaster that scenario for this. From a CHRISTOPHER NECUZE Wednesdays and Fridays during the Fall and Spring semesters and once a week famous 1906 San Fran- iola,” Draper said. “Well this affects the capital city, the political point of view, this PRODUCTION MANAGER during Summer B. One copy per person. cisco earthquake. Strike-slip is just about as big as it’s seat of government, it raises could set Haiti back 10-15 CHRISTOPHER ADAMS Additional copies are 25 cents. The Beacon faults move past each other going to get.” all sorts of questions.” years,” Olson said. “That is not responsible for the content of ads. COPY CHIEF Olson predicted that essentially ends the country, Ad content is the sole responsibility of the horizontally. The earthquake also PAULA GARCIA company or vendor. The Beacon is an edi- In the case of the has the potential to further as more countries became for all intents and purposes. torially independent newspaper partially aware of the extent of the 500,000 would be the worst NEWS DIRECTOR Enriquillo-Plantain Garden devastate an already fragile funded by student and services fees that destruction, foreign aid disaster in the history of the JORGE VALENS Fault, pressure is built as the political infrastructure on the are appropriated by student government. would start arriving, but Western Hemisphere – and BBC MANAGING EDITOR The Beacon offi ce is located in GC 210 more southern Caribbean island, according to Richard not necessarily distributed, by a wide margin.” JASMYN ELLIOTT at the Modesto Maidique Campus and in Plate moves east in relation Olson, chair of the political WUC 124 at the Biscayne Bay Campus. as the government would “The death toll will prob- LIFE! EDITOR with the larger North Amer- science department. Olson Questions regarding display advertising have to rely heavily on non- ably come down,” Olson said. ASHLYN TOLEDO ican Plate. Eventually the teaches about the political and billing should be directed to the Adver- governmental organizations “But if it doesn’t, then we are SPORTS DIRECTOR tising Manager at 305-348-2709. Mailing plates “slip,” releasing the repercussions of natural to distribute aid. talking about a completely JONATHAN RAMOS address: Graham Center, Room 210, Miami, stored energy and causing an disasters. FL 33199. Fax number is 305-348-2712. With a population of different phenomenon.” OPINION EDITOR earthquake. “You always have to be Biscayne Bay Campus is 305-919-4722. nine million, the estimated DAVID BARRIOS “What we know is that particularly concerned when Offi ce hours are 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday 500,000 person death-toll Additional reporting by PHOTO EDITOR through Friday. E-mail: Beacon@fi u.edu. the motion along those a major disaster affects not would equal roughly 5.5 Gabriel Arrarás, Jasmyn

ALEX GARCIA Visit us online at: www.fi usm.com. faults is relatively slow, so just an urban area, but the it takes a long time for the urban area that is the national percent of the population. Elliot and Jorge Valens.

Mon, Wed & Fri 11 am-12 pm Tune in to 88.1 95.3 96.9 wrgp.org www.fi usm.com NEWS The Beacon – Friday, January 15, 2010 3

MLK celebrated with PACKING UP events on both campuses

DREAM, page 1 inspiration. The prizes district attorney, will be the were scholarships for speaker. able for purchase. $2,000, $1,000 and $500 The final day of the The week of events is for first, second and third events will be held Jan. 20 funded partly by student place, respectively. Each at BBC. government, outside spon- of the prizes also included A MLK Youth Forum sors and ticket sales. a $1,000 meal plan from and Peace Walk, both in Tickets to the breakfast Aramark, the University’s their 10th year, will be held were sold for $35 each and food service provider, and in the Wolfe University are already sold out. A total $500 from Barnes & Noble Center Ballroom. The youth of 550 tickets have been for books. forum will be keynoted by sold. Immediately following Dr. Pedro Greer, chair of “We usually sell out the breakfast will be a the Department of Humani- by December,” said speaker’s reception that ties, Health and Society. Jeffrey McNamee, asso- will not be open to the Sawyers encourages ciate director of MPAS public. The reception is for University students to at Modesto Maidique MPAS’ corporate sponsors, attend the forum. Campus. essay winners and Univer- “The message will be McNamee said the sity administration. important for everyone, not reason the breakfast is not There will be a “Day of just middle and high school free is because student Service” the day after the students,” Sawyers said. government isn’t fully breakfast, Saturday Jan. 16. After the keynote by funding it. He added that The day of service will be Greer there will be a 15- the breakfast is the only the beautification of Fruit minute peace walk behind event that isn’t free. and Spice Park in Home- the WUC as well as lunch Student government has stead. Student volunteers from Papa John’s that will a table at the breakfast that will be at the park from 9 be sold for $5. McNamee said sometimes a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Greer, who received LINDA LEE/THE BEACON doesn’t get filled. According to a press the Presidential Medal Graduate student Nunzio Auricchio, disassembles Ichi Ikeda’s 80 Liter Water Boy, “8 a.m. on Friday is a release, there will be 150 of Freedom at the White on Jan. 12. as the Frost Art Museum de-installs “The Missing Peace: Artists Con- big deterrent,” McNamee student volunteers that will House last August, said that sider the Dalai Lama.” On Jan. 20 the museum will open three new exhibitions. said. be working with students he wants to motivate people MPAS has support of the from the Yvonne Learning to follow in King’s steps. University administration, Center. Greer said that it is McNamee said, regarding In addition, Dorret important to him because to whom the tickets are Sawyers, director of MPAS he will be speaking on sold. He said tickets are at Biscayne Bay Campus, times that he lived through Date for elections agreed often sold to heads of said they are expecting and that people should departments that often buy between 200 and 250 volun- know not only what King tickets for their respective teers from local middle and did, but why he did it. upon by both campuses staff. high schools. “It is a great honor to Freshmen students this A dinner will be held in be speaking in honor of The discussion came a month before year competed for three honor of the late civil rights someone that is so impor- UWC, page 1 budget deliberations, where the $130,000 prizes by submitting an activist Jan. 19 and Karlyn tant,” Greer said in an inter- returning members. of student money is en route to be allocated essay with King as the Hylton, assistant U.S. view with Student Media. “I don’t think it’s just about having a for the band. band, it should be a good band,” said SGC- The UWC also took up the issue of elec- BBC Vice President Christin “Cici” Battle. tions scheduling. The elections were going Rionda described the new system, where to be held during the week of Passover. JOIN OUR STAFF! students pay the majority of expenses, as Newly confi rmed SGC-MMC Chief more stable than the last one. He described Justice Luis Robayo explained to the UWC The BEACON is always looking for talent- the old system where the College of Archi- that current laws called for elections to be tecture and Arts paid the most, then student held on the second week after spring break, ed and reliable individuals to join the staff. If government, then Athletics, as a tripod and campaigning the week before. you have an interest in writing, photography that would collapse if one leg fell off. He After some deliberation, it was decided feels that the need for a band is imperative that March 22-26 would be used for or even grammar, don’t be shy. for the reputation of the University and its campaigning while elections would be held Stop by one of our offi ces located in GC students. on March 29 and 30. “We can’t look ridiculous ... we can’t be Passover is set to fall on March 30 this 210 and WUC 124. in Sports Illustrated without a band,” Rionda year, and is typically observed starting on said. “If the band fails, then we all fail.” sunset of the prior night. panthers DRY CLEANING Monday - Thursday Friday Saturday & Sunday 10am - 5pm 10am - 2pm Closed

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Located in the 1st fl oor of the FIU Graham Center GC 1238, 305.485.5984 Contact Us Jasmyn Elliott BBC Managing Editor jasmyn.elliott@fi usm.com AT THE BAY The Beacon – 4 www.fi usm.com Friday, January 15, 2010

College of Law professor MEET AND GREET to discuss genocide, war crimes, reform in Iraq Until the arrival of coalition LORENA ESTRADA forces in Iraq, leaders of Hussein’s Staff Writer Baath Party, such as Ali Hassan al- Majid (also known as “Chemical The Middle East Society will Ali”) and Taha Yasin Ramadan, host a lecture called “Justice After were involved in heinous acts Saddam: War Crimes Trials in Iraq” against fellow Iraqis, which to discuss Iraq’s transi- included systematic torture, tion to democracy and how mass killings and ethnic the prosecution of leading cleansing. Travis will fi gures under the late explore some of the trials Saddam Hussein’s regime of these former leaders and has made way for political talk about the prosecution stability in Iraq. process itself. Hannibal Travis, assis- TRAVIS Travis teaches and tant professor at the College of conducts research in the fi elds of Law and Harvard Law School cyberlaw, intellectual property, TOMAS LOPEZ-MELIS/THE BEACON graduate, will speak on Jan. 15 at antitrust, international and compar- Peola Bradshaw, a senior in criminal justice, is greeted by Bradford P. Burton I, assistant director of the Biscayne Bay Campus at 2:30 ative law and human rights. Campus Life, and receives a calendar of events from Danny Anzueto, a senior in psychology, and p.m. in Academic I, Room 194. He has published articles in the Orientation executive assistant of Campus Life. The event is free to the public and American University Law Review, parking is free. University of Miami Law Review According to Travis, students and Yale Journal of Law and Tech- interested in U.S. politics, interna- nology, among others. tional relations, international law, His works focused on copy- Alumni volunteer to rescue plant life human rights, Middle East studies right, antitrust law and trademark. and the crisis in Darfur or Southern His article on copyright liability of SABRENA JOHNSON Day is for FIU alumni chapters tate them for future re-planting,” Sudan may benefi t a lot from this Internet service providers in the U.S. Staff Writer and Golden Panthers around the Radi-Bermudez said. lecture. and the European Union published country to team up for various Although the event is being “I will discuss the possible in Europe. In 2008, his article on Going green has become very service projects that will positively hosted by the SJMC alumni chapter, implications of the fi ndings of Iraqi Google and intellectual property important in today’s society. impact the communities in which it is open to all FIU students who courts in war crimes cases for the was selected by West Group as one Alumni of the School of Jour- they live. Each chapter selects their are interested in helping out in the trial of the president of Sudan and of the best articles relating to intel- nalism and Mass Communication own service project,” she said. community. Volunteers must be 16 potential trials of other leaders lectual property law. are onboard with this initiative, and “Our chapter, which was estab- years old or over. before the International Criminal Travis, who has book chap- are giving students an opportunity lished in 2006, aims to engage a Due to the nature of the project Court,” Travis said. ters forthcoming from the Oxford to give back to the community. diverse group of graduates world- and the outdoor environment, all In his lecture, Travis will defi ne University Press, Thomson Reuters The SJMC Alumni Chapter will wide through programs and participants are required to wear genocide, name those who have and Transaction Publishers, is the host the second annual Panther services that addresses the needs long pants and closed-toe shoes. been found guilty of genocide in fi rst author of the fi rst comprehen- Service Day at Oleta River State of its members,” Radi-Bermudez It is also recommended to bring Iraq, and explain how criminal sive history of physical and cultural Park on Jan. 16. The event will take said. gloves and water bottles if needed. tribunals and legal reform can both genocide in the Middle East and place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the This year’s project will be Snacks and refreshments will reconcile former rebels against the North Africa. He graduated from SJMC Pavillion inside the park. to help the Oleta River State be available for all volunteers. state with their government, and Washington State University with a Students, faculty, family and Park protect its most endangered The Oleta River State Park is further estrange those deciding to major in philosophy, and graduated friends are invited to come out species. located at 3400 NE 163 St. North remain as rebels. from Harvard Law School where he and lend a hand to help rescue “We have the unique oppor- Miami, Fla 33181. There is a $6 The lecture comes at a time of served as a member of the Harvard the park’s young endangered tunity to help rescue endangered per car park entrance fee. greater interest in justice and human Journal of Law and Technology mahogany trees. mahogany trees that would other- rights, according to Travis. and the Harvard Human Rights According to Heather Radi- wise perish of natural causes. Anyone interested in partici- “Students may learn about the Journal. Bermudez, SJMC marketing coor- Volunteers will be responsible pating in the SJMC Alumni Service human rights aspect of the United For more information on the dinator, the FIU Panther Service for digging up these baby trees, Project at Oleta River State Park States and what led the coalition’s lecture, students can contact Day was started by the FIU Alumni securing them in pots and trans- is asked to contact Heather Radi- case for invading Iraq in 2003,” the Middle East Society at Association, porting them to the park’s nursery Bermudez at hradi@fi u.edu or call Travis said. 305-919-5381. “The purpose of Panther Service where park rangers will rehabili- 305-919-4411 in advance. SGC-BBC Broward Pines Center senator removed from council LATOYA BURGESS before the winter break. to challenge these charges in a sched- bilities as senator for the Broward Pines Staff Writer At the Jan. 11 meeting, Battle asked uled hearing, according to Statute G of the Center. between laughs, “ Who is Claudia? I don’t constitution. “SGC had one meeting here at the As Claudia Ruby, senator for the Broward even know what she looks like.” Other members of the council said Broward Pines Center and some of the Pines Center, recalls Welcome Back Week, According to Article VII, Statute E of they’ve noticed Ruby’s absences. council members weren’t even there. I am she may no longer be a welcomed member the Student Government Council consti- “She has only come to one meeting and doing my job,” said Ruby. “I am just unable of the Student Government Council at tution, “Any discussion resulting from a she hasn’t been present by phone,” said to go to all of the meetings.” Biscayne Bay Campus. recommendation for removal or censure of Tanya Williams, SGC-BBC speaker of the Going to all the meetings is a part of Ruby was voted out by the senate on the accused from offi ce, will be open solely senate. Ruby’s job. Jan. 11. She said she “had no idea” about to the voting members of the SGC and the Ruby told The Beacon that her dad fell The SGC-BBC constitution states that the unanimous decision. student judiciary.” off a roof and she has now been spending a senator cannot miss more than three “I had been doing Welcome Back Week, The constitution also states that if a trial her days taking care of him, but admits she senate meetings or two consecutive senate I haven’t been able to drive down to [BBC] is deemed necessary, the chief justice, in hasn’t spoken to Battle or Neistein about meetings. every Monday and Wednesday because I consultation with the SGC advisor, will it. “We need all of the senate or most of live in Plantation,” Ruby said. exchange an information session with the Neistein said he did not know that Ruby the senate to have an offi cial meeting,” said Ruby said she spoke to Christin “Cici” charged student informing him or her of the was up for removal, but he knows it is “very SGC-BBC clerk Larissa Adames. “[Sena- Battle, vice president of SGC-BBC, and charges and their rights. hard for her” to get to BBC. tors] have voting power. If they’re not Sholom Neistein, president of SGC-BBC Thereafter the student has the right Ruby said that she meets her responsi- there, their vote can’t be counted.” www.fi usm.com AT THE BAY The Beacon – Friday, January 15, 2010 5

Olympic medalist returns STAR QUALITY to games after hardships

PAUL NEWBERRY Associated Press bit. It took a long time, a struggle, especially for good six months. But I an athlete in her 30s. But think I’m actually on the at least Rodriguez found For Jennifer Rodriguez, way back up. Things are some measure of peace at the crying finally stopped starting to look bright the rink — gliding along last month. again instead of looking so the ice, escaping from her The Olympic medalist gloomy.” troubles. has endured so much pain The 33-year-old Rodri- Last month, Rodriguez over the past couple of guez was a pioneer at the finished third in the 1,500 years: the death of her speedskating rink, among at a World Cup meet on mother, the end of her that first batch of warm- the Olympic oval in Utah, marriage, financial prob- weather inliners who made where she won those two lems that left her all tapped the switch to ice. bronze medals in 2002. out. A Cuban-American from But she’s realistic about For months, hardly a South Florida — hence her her chances in Vancouver, day went by without some nickname, “Miami Ice” — a sea-level track that won’t sort of breakdown, the tears she made her first Olympic be nearly as fast as those streaming down her face as team in 1998 and won a high-altitude rinks where she struggled to cope with pair of bronze medals four she’s had more success. one blow after another. years later in Salt Lake Rodriguez wants to Finally, she turned a City. savor the experience at one corner — and just in time “Sometimes I wish I last Olympics, knowing for her fourth trip to the hadn’t quit, because I know there won’t be another Winter Games. I could be even better than comeback for 2014. She “I would be in my hotel I am now,” said Rodriguez, wants to feel better about room, crying all the time,” who’ll skate three indi- her skating than she did Rodriguez said this week. vidual events in Vancouver after the disappointment of “But just about a month (500, 1,000 and 1,500) as 2006, even if she doesn’t ago, I kind of stopped well as the team pursuit. finish any higher. that. Maybe I’m kind of “But you really don’t know. “I didn’t enjoy Torino, going through the healing Maybe if I hadn’t quit, I not one bit,” she said. “I’d process, getting over the would have been so burned really like to enjoy these TOMAS LOPEZ-MELIS/THE BEACON part where I’m crying all out by now that I wouldn’t games and leave this sport the time, where I’m feeling be skating well.” with a good taste in my Sarah David-Williams, Campus Life manager, does touchups to her tie-dye shirt in so sad all the time. That’s Coming back after such mouth.” front of Academic I on Jan. 8 as a part of Fun Day. kind of going away a little a long layoff is always a

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*If you find a lower price at any other store, we will match it on the spot. Must be an identical, in-stock item. Excludes free product offers, special orders, services, Internet purchases, liquidation, ad errors, clearance, refurbished and closeout items. The Office Depot name and logo are registered trademarks of The Office Club, Inc. © 2009 Office Depot, Inc. All rights reserved. NASCAR is a registered trademark of The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, Inc. GO_BBFly_13110 Contact Us David Barrios Opinion Editor david.barrios@fi usm.com OPINION The Beacon – 6 www.fi usm.com Friday, January 15, 2010 Reid’s remarks Dating Web site cuts membership now.” That’s a caption that lays next to the photo of the ultimate couple. questionable ‘Fatties’ do not get a chance The only problem I have, besides the sheer hubris and effrontery of BP’s exis- DAVID A. BARRIOS tence, is the assumption that the members Opinion Editor at fi nding their soulmates are actually beautiful. The word “beau- tiful” carries far more connotations Senator Harry Reid should be on top of the MATTHEW RUCKMAN A cursory look at the Web site reveals than say pretty, handsome, gorgeous, or political world at the moment. Staff Writer exactly what one might expect from a suave. The 70-year-old senator from Nevada has site devoted to self-aggrandizing muscle- Beauty is something intrinsic and been able to navigate a health care bill to the Over the winter break, 5,000 souls heads and cadaverous calorie counters. combines all those unseen but deeply felt brink of becoming law; a bill bringing signifi - were digitally thrown to the curb in Note the home page’s gloriously happy personality traits such as intelligence, cant changes to a fl awed health care system. It a Judas-like move by their very own and good-looking couple. humility, and humor into something that should be a triumph not only for his party but dating Web site, BeautifulPeople.com. Stage right: appropriately symmetrical supersedes bust size and eye color. for himself. They were no longer being able to satisfy Caucasian woman with pearly whites that You can’t judge someone’s beauty Reid is under fi re and being called to the attractiveness requisite mandated for are orthodontically aligned and bleached, solely on a profi le pic. Beauty is a mosaic step down from his position by Michael site membership. The action was taken in skin airbrushed to 2 pores/sq. inch, and of who that person is, not only what they Steele, chairman of the Republican National response to some Christmas pounds put eyes that are thoroughly saint-seducing look like. Committee and other members of the GOP for on by the used-to-be members. and beg “Come hither ... Him. Not You.” I could very easily get away with racist comments made over a year ago that, “Letting fatties roam the site is a direct Stage left: equally as white man with calling Mother Teresa a beautiful person though show great ignorance, also expose igno- threat to our business model and the very Patrick Bateman-like facial characteris- but, admittedly, I’d be a crime to name rance from his accusers. concept for which BeautifulPeople.com tics. His brown hair is that treated kind her empirically attractive or (gulp!) hot. In the newly published book Game Change was founded,” said site founder Robert which looks like it would break or crack She was brilliant and kind and beautiful the Senate majority leader is quoted as saying in Hintze. rather than tussle if you noogied it. in the way the founders and members of early 2008 that President Barack Obama would Who’s pretty and who’s not is deter- To highlight that he is in fact real, a BP.com ironically are not. be a possible winner in the election because mined by the rating system installed slight amount of stubble is lain (think The 5,000 schleps ejected from Obama was a “light skinned” African-Amer- since the creation of the site, where astro-turf) over his Superman-like chin. BP.com’s inner sanctum are probably ican with “no negro dialect.” established members vote over a 72-hour He’s wearing this odd grimace/smile that taking this to heart ever since they’ve There is no defense of Reid’s statements. period on the applicant’s physical desir- makes me think he’s one of those people become victims of their own narcis- Though made in private, they show extreme ability. Those who don’t make it in, and who fl ush the toilet while sitting down. sism. Hopefully they, the now rejected, ignorance on his part with his choice of words. only one-in-ten do, are sent an apolo- “Do you want to guarantee your and prospective members of BP, realize Yet Reid spoke with the president, who accepted getic letter urging them to re-apply as dates will always be beautiful? No more that the world doesn’t need any more an apology. Obama said to the media that the soon as they become more attractive. On fi ltering through unattractive people on preening morons but maybe a little more matter was closed. the contrary, those admitted are given the mainstream sites. Meet beautiful people understanding and communication and a Cue Michael Steele. keys to the fey world of BP.com. locally and from around the world – few more Teresas. Steele called for Reid’s resignation and on last Sunday’s Meet The Press, he said, “What’s interesting here is when Democrats get caught saying racist things, an apology is enough. If Julia Tuttle homeless longing for shelter that had been [Senate Minority Leader] Mitch McConnell saying that about an African-Amer- ODETTE BARRIENTOS less. However, not all the being turned away from shel- reintegration into society. ican candidate for president of the United States, Asst. Opinion Editor homeless were welcome. ters on some of the coldest I understand that some sex trust me, this chairman and the DNC would be According to The Miami nights yet. offenders are responsible for screaming for his head, very much as they were It seems as though everyone Herald, the homeless sex The law is clearly not on heinous crimes. But I don’t with Trent Lott.” in Miami wants the cold offenders, living under the their side. Of course, many understand how other types When asked by young reporters earlier this weather to go away. Frankly, causeway say they were turned could easily say that they of criminals can come out of year about his plans to bring diverse cultures I’m starting to get annoyed away by the county’s home- deserve this kind of treatment jail and live under restrictions into the Republican Party, Steele said, “Y’all by the growing number of less shelters due to strict laws because they are dangerous a lot more lenient than those come… I’ll bring the fried chicken and potato complaints. There are home- imposed on sex offenders in criminals who prey on innocent imposed on sex offenders. salad.” less people out on the streets Miami-Dade County. children. Not all sex offenders I wonder what the criminal Did I miss something? Double standard? But with no protection from the Laws about where sex are guilty of the same crime. records of the other homeless it’s OK, Mr. Steele because no major network cold. What’s worse is that offenders are allowed to live Some sex offenders may be on people in those shelters look has picked up on your quote yet. Does anyone some of them are being turned (or do anything, really) vary the list for things like dating a like. It’s safe to assume that else smell just another political ploy from a away from shelters. How do from county to county and minor. Yet, their crimes are not those who actually were let in kicking and screaming Republican Party, doing you fathom? depend on the severity and what we should be looking at. were not your typical goody- their best to unite for the upcoming midterm This is what many home- nature of the crime for which These offenders have paid two-shoes but they got in just elections? Protesting for the sake of protesting? less sex offenders in Miami the criminal was convicted. their time in jail. Because fi ne. Reid referring to Obama as a “negro” is have to deal with. Not only Under Florida state law, sex of the county’s strict restric- There are 53,201 registered awful, but there is no comparison between are they literally quaran- offenders can’t live within tions surrounding where they sex offenders in the entire Reid’s statements to those of Trent Lott. Lott, tined under the Julia Tuttle 1,000 feet of schools, child- can live after they serve their state, according to the Florida former Republican Senate majority leader Causeway, but now even a care centers parks or other time, it is hard for them to fi nd Department of Law Enforce- said at a dinner for Strom Thurmond’s 100th night in a shelter to get away areas where kids congregate. any place to live or even walk ment. For the registered sex birthday that if Thurmond had won his 1948 from the cold seems perfectly Miami-Dade County, though, around. offenders of Miami-Dade in segregationist bid for the presidency, “all these absurd. The Weather Channel is stricter and places a 2,500- The law forces them to particular, life seems to be a problems” America faced would not have reported low temperatures of feet ban on its sex offenders. cluster under highways like bit more troublesome. happened. 38 degrees on Jan. 9. To follow through with the Julia Tuttle. The law also By clustering former sex It was the equivalent of walking onto a mine As the temperatures the law, the only place they forces shelters to ban them in offenders and forcing them to fi eld and Lott’s career was fi nished. lowered and broke records can live in is under the Julia near freezing temperatures. live in unbearable conditions, Reid certainly didn’t advocate a heartless and last week, counties state- Tuttle Bridge. And here they The law, with all its power and the problem becomes bigger. disturbing practice. His remarks, along with his wide opened emergency cold- are, trying to escape from the thirst for justice, has directly It is shameful, disgusting and push for health care reform will probably fi nd a weather shelters for the home- cooler breezes by the bay – isolated them from healthy unjustifi ed. Republican sitting in his seat next January.

DISCLAIMER SEND US YOUR LETTERS DAILYQUERY OPINIONPIECE QUOTATIONATION The opinions presented within Got a problem with parking? Want to What are your thoughts on Senator “It’s the most horrifi c thing I’ve ever this page do not represent the give kudos to faculty? Or do you just Harry Reid’s comments? Does it say views of The Beacon Editorial have something to say about FIU? something more about America 33 seen. We have to get food and wa- Board. These views are separate Send your thoughts in to opinion@ or is the critical response to these ter. We’re trying to stay alive.” from editorials and refl ect indi- fi usm.com or drop by our offi ces at statements just a an attempt from The amount in billions of dol- vidual perspectives of contribut- either GC 240 or WUC 124. With your the GOP to stay competitive for the lars President Obama asked for ing writers and/or members of letter, be sure to include your name, next elections? Send responses to the 2010 fi scal year for the wars Bob Poff the University community. major and year. opinion@fi usm.com in Afganistahn and Iraq. Salvation Army, on Haiti earthquake aftermath Contact Us Ashlyn Toledo Life! Editor ashlyn.toledo@fi usm.com LIFE! The Beacon – 7 www.fi usm.com Friday, January 15, 2010 PUNCH-LINEUP Big names expected to bring big laughs ADRIANA RODRIGUEZ getting some laughs. Tom Arnold and hip-hop Staff Writer Audiences will get a heavy weights Snoop Dogg AZIZ ANSARI live view of his funny man and Method Man. Hart’s For the fi fth year in stunts that they might have recent fi lm credits include a row, the South Beach seen on one of his three Drillbit Taylor, Epic Movie, Comedy Festival will bring Comedy Central specials. The Last Stand, Scary Comedy Central’s biggest The Massachusetts born Movie 4, In the Mix and The names to the many stages comedian will bring his 40 Year Old Virgin. Tickets of South Beach . acclaimed storytelling to are $35.50 and the show The festival, which the Lincoln Theatre at 7:30 will kick off at 8 p.m. begins on Jan. 20 and will p.m. Martha Lopez, a junior run through Jan. 23, will Also performing on broadcast journalism GABRIEL IGLESIAS take place in four main Thursday is Gabriel Igle- major, said she’s not too locations throughout the sias, who performed at FIU excited about this year’s South Beach area. back in 2005. lineup compared to past JON LAJOIE Performances will The self-proclaimed years but does feel that be held at the Fillmore “Fluffy” comedian, who SBCF redeemed itself with Miami Beach Jackie resurrects his personal and the inclusion of Iglesias Gleason Theatre, Lincoln daily issues and experi- and Hart. JOHN OLIVER Theatre, Colony Theater ences, will perform at the “I’m not that excited and the Lincoln Road Fillmore Miami Beach for this year’s festival. In Stage on Euclid Avenue, Jackie Gleason Theatre at previous years, they’ve which is home to the festi- 8 p.m. Tickets for Iglesias’ had better comedians. The val’s nightly, free outdoor show are on sale for $34. only two comedians I’m comedy stage. Another past FIU looking forward to seeing BRIAN REGAN For the fi rst time, performer is Kevin Hart, are Kevin Hart and Gabriel special shows and offi cial who participated in UP- Iglesias. I’ve seen both events will be held at some Roar back in November of their Comedy Central MIKE BIRBIGLIA of South Beach’s hottest 2009. specials and their perfor- clubs. Hart will take the stage mances here at FIU and I Kicking off the festival Friday night at the Fill- think they are amazing,” will be Mad Cat Theatre more Miami Beach Jackie she said. “They both have Company’s “Shepherd’s Gleason Theatre. these outrageous personal- Pie” on Jan. 20 at 7:30 p.m. Hart got his fi rst big ities and comedy routines in the Colony Theater. break when he was cast as that make you laugh so KEVIN HART Thursday night will be the lead in MGM’s Soul Mike Birbiglia’s shot at Plane opposite funny man COMEDY, page 9 MAD CAT THEATRE JOE ROGAN Band’s newest album reflects its individuality

CHRIS TOWERS English,” this seems an album consciously Staff Writer attempting to lash back at some of the critics, making an effort to be more “weird” than the There has always seemingly been a premium fi rst. in music placed on authenticity. It seems like a step back, but one that is Kurt Cobain talked about how depressed not wholly without merit through the fi rst few he was – and joked about killing himself – so listens. the only possible way to secure himself a place But it is an album that rewards repeat listens. in the annals of musical history was to put a It might never lend itself to in-concert sing- shotgun shell through his skull. alongs like the debut but, as a whole, it is just as Tupac often talked about the merits of “thug rewarding a listening experience. life” and was gunned down the same way a Where the fi rst album took very few risks, common drug dealer might be. It made him a staying well within the realm of guitar pop, tragic fi gure, but it also lent legitimacy to his this one isn’t afraid to go further, delving into career. low-key electro pop with “White Sky,” or In most cases, artists can only be helped by moody atmospheric ballads like “I Think UR a being true to themselves, no matter how stupid Contra.” their true self might be. What is most striking about the album is how much more confi dent the band sounds being This is what made the initial backlash to PHOTO COURTESY OF VAMPIRE WEEKEND Vampire Weekend, a foursome composed of themselves. They had only been together for a former Columbia University classmates, so BOURGEOIS: Members of Vampire Weekend from left to right: Rostam Batmanglij, Ezra couple of years at the time of the debut and the strange. Koenig, Chris Tomson and Chris Baio. intervening time has been good for the quartet. On their sunny, self-titled debut, they Maybe it’s me projecting on them, but this sounded like what they are: upper middle class be anything other than what they are. striking thing about Contra is the lack of killer album sounds more like what the band wants to white kids with a little too much education and a On their second album, Contra, the band melodies that really carried the fi rst album. be. little too much interest in world music and Paul makes the bold decision to continue being Musically, it seems to be a little more layered There’s a certain type of strength in taking Simon. exactly who they are. Maybe more so than on and interesting, but nothing hits you over the criticism and being able to use it to your And yet, the backlash was swift – much of their debut. head quite like “A-Punk” or “Oxford Comma,” advantage, and that’s just what happened. It’s it based on factors other than the music. Their It’s a little less sunny, maybe, but it is unmis- or really, any of the tracks on a fi rst album which refreshing to see a band so comfortable being background lent itself to criticism that was both takably the same band that made the soundtrack was chock full of hooks. who they are, and it’s great to listen to as well. unfair and completely predictable, even though for every coming-of-age movie in 2008. From the sampling of M.I.A’s “Diplomat’s The Beacon does not accept any free food or there was never a time when they pretended to Through the fi rst few listens, the most Son” to the auto-tuned vocals on “California services in exchange for positive reviews. 8 The Beacon – Friday, January 15, 2010 LIFE! www.fi usm.com

FISTFULS OF TECH 3-D not the wave of the future Quick Picks

hate 3-D content. There, I bring in serious money and it even a valuable tool in story Movies I said it. can be done right. That being telling. The Consumer Electronics said, Avatar’s 3-D experience I can defi nitely see Cameron The Imaginarium Show, a is very similar to its distant 3-D on the set of Avatar, spewing of Doctor Parnassus COLUMNIST yearly expo predecessors’, apparent by the a profanity fi lled rant to Sam which tends migraine that I endured shortly Worthington about how he 83/100 to dictate the after. should thrust the spear at the tech trends I don’t see myself, or anyone camera every now and then, to for the year, for that matter, getting home give the audience a little rush. The Lovely Bones was domi- after a long day of staring at a Spare me. 77/100 nated by 3- computer screen, slipping on At the end of the day, the D television a pair of 3-D glasses to strain people who will benefi t from sets by Sony, my eyes to watch something in this are the hardware makers. Youth in Revolt JORGE VALENS Samsung 3-D. These guys are seeing that and Vizio, to name a few. 3-D is a gimmick, some- people are complacent and 62/100 Sadly, that can only mean thing to get people to show up content with their TV purchases, that 2010 will be the year of 3- to a movie that has a lackluster and want to squeeze in every D technology – God help us all. story and a big budget to pay gimmick possible in order to Capitalizing on the success back. This isn’t something that sell them something new. Music Games of James Cameron’s 3-D epic, movie studios put in to make This year, Sony showed off Avatar, television makers are the movie watching experience some 3-D glasses that it will sell very quick to make 3-D a staple more enjoyable. as a separate accessory with its Of the Blue Bayonetta in the living room, but I don’t Movie studios are putting 3-D TV’s that are worth $100 a (Multi) think we’re ready for that yet. everything behind 3-D movies piece. Colour of the Sky 3-D technology has had because a 3-D movie is impos- I know what you’re thinking OK Go 91/100 its successes and failures. In sible to pirate and it ensures and yes, Sony does love to sell the late 90s, the technology higher revenues and a secure overpriced tech. I just never 79/100 was rolled out to many IMAX stream of viewers who won’t thought they would stoop so Army of theaters as a ploy to get people be tempted to hit the torrents low as to overprice something Two: The to watch cheesy nature docu- to catch a highly anticipated you get for free at the movie mentaries narrated by Laurence movie. theater. Y Not 40th Day Fishburne and Tom Hanks. Nothing makes this a more I am not going to pay Sony However, after the three- apparent point than watching $5,000 for a 3-hour migraine, Ringo Starr (Multi) Darksiders hour-long migraine that was a 3-D movie where charac- no matter how oddly attractive 67/100 91/100 (Multi) 84/100 “Secrets of the Serengeti,” I ters in the movie are constantly blue Zoe Saldana may be. came to the conclusion that throwing things at the camera perhaps 3-D technology wasn’t or sticking their spears out, to ready then, just as it is not ready woo the audience with obvious Fistfuls of Tech is a weekly Metacritic.com is a Web site that provides an average rating now. executions of 3-D. tech column. Look for it every Avatar was a great proof of This technology is merely an Friday. of movies, games, television, DVDs and music based on concept that 3-D movies can afterthought in fi lms and isn’t scores given by respected critics in those areas.

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ASHLEY CAPO faculty and well-known electronic music event is Paula Matthussan, director and said. Staff Writer composer, Diego Garro, and animator and professor of music technology. Composer With the use of sound bytes of all sorts, composer, Dennis Miller. of both electroacoustic and acoustic music, street noise included, the focus of the Passersby strolling past the Patricia The New Music Miami ISCM Festival, her work has been performed in numerous pieces are inspired from things one may and Phillip Frost Art Museum at FIU will initially named the May in Music Festival venues around the U.S. and Europe listen to every day, but never listen to as witness quite a treat on Jan. 16. in 1997, is the brainchild of Orlando including Merkin Music Hall, WAX and music; or even think of as being a possible As the second of a six-part concert Jacinto Garcia, director of graduate music the Aspen Music Festival. Matthussan will musical instrument. series, The New Music Miami Interna- programs at the University as well as a be debuting her piece, Hommage å Salon Something as everyday as the sound of tional Society for Contemporary Music member of the composition faculty. Bruit e. snapping fi ngers serve as the musical notes Festival will be presenting an audio/visual Throughout its existence, the festival “I collected actual noise samples from of the compositions. show in the Avenue of the Arts in front of has featured a plethora of internationally Berlin and used them to create my piece. As The sounds of the springs of a tram- the museum. renowned composers and, as of 2002, it it is named, it is a homage to the salon bruit poline will be used in a piece composed Differing from the fi rst concert of the is an offi cial associate chapter of the FIU e, a place I admire very much,” Matthussan by Kristine H. Burns, associate dean of series, which featured woodwind instru- School of Music, incorporating the works said, referencing a non-commercial theater cultural affairs for the College of Archi- ments including several performances by of faculty members and students. in Berlin that allows for composers and tecture and the Arts, and will be performed famous fl utist, Margaret Lancaster, this Past festivals have seen and heard animators interested in the electronic arts live by students. concert will incorporate electronic arts the works of composers from the U.S., to display and present their work. The New Music Miami ISCM Festival, and music, including video that will be Canada, Spain, Mexico, Italy and Cuba Although very much a tribute to the city Concert II, will begin at 8 p.m. outside the projected on the outside walls of the Frost and many of the composers have even held as well as the venue, Matthussan mentions Frost Art Museum on Jan. 16. Museum. music workshops and question and answer that her piece is in no way a peaceful More information about the festival and The event will feature the FIU Laptop sessions for students. orchestration. other concert dates can be found at www. and Electronic Arts ensemble as well as Among the faculty involved in the “It’s a very noisy piece, actually,” she orlandojacintogarcia.com. Ex ‘Fear Factor’ host among this year’s comedians

COMEDY, page 7 a commentator for Ultimate Fighting Catherine Arronte, a junior public Mad Cat Theatre Company Champion on pay per view and Spike relations major, is excited for Ansa- hard it hurts. I cannot wait to see them Television, and he also hosts the hit ri’s set. She calls him, “witty and live again and have a good laugh.” show “UFC Wired.” He’s been on unexpected.” Jon Lajoie, known for his crude the comedy circuit for 20 years now “I’m looking forward to seeing subject matter, will take the stage on and his show is known to provide some of his stuff from his new stand Friday night with two back-to-back some good laughs. Unfortunately, he up and what we don’t see from him performances at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. probably won’t be eating any cock- in ‘Parks and Recreation.’” In his set, Lajoie talks about roaches. He will perform Jan. 22 at 8 Cost of tickets may be out of reach everything from his private body p.m. in the Lincoln Theatre. for some students, especially during parts to getting high. Coupled with Closing out the festival will be the beginning of the semester with so smart lyrics, his retelling of everyday Aziz Ansari and Brian Regan. many expensive book purchases. No situations is irresistibly funny. If Brian Regan’s fan base is one worries, the South Beach Comedy you have not seen any of his shows of the strongest of this generation’s Festival will be offering plenty of before, proceed with caution. This league of comics. The one downside free shows throughout the weekend is not the kind of comedy show you to going to see his show is that ticket – just don’t expect any big names. want to bring your little sister or payers will have to fork out $45. Gabrie Swingler, a sophomore brother to. Aziz Ansari is better known for majoring in women’s studies and Joe Rogan is the old host of his job on NBC’s “Parks and Recre- hospitality, said, “I can’t wait until 3 6 2 8 5 7 1 9 4 NBC’s “Fear Factor.” You know, the ation.” If you’re not familiar with the South beach Comedy Festival. I Sudoku answers 5 1 7 2 9 4 6 8 3 show where people eat cockroaches. any of his work outside of the show, saw Kevin Hart when he performed 4 9 8 3 1 6 2 7 5 from 1/13/10 7 4 6 5 3 8 9 1 2 His name may not a ring a bell, but you can pick up his CD/DVD set, at FIU and he was hilarious. I’m 1 2 5 7 6 9 3 4 8 you’ve surely seen this comic’s face Intimate Moments for a Sensual especially excited that there are some Keep playing 8 3 9 4 2 1 7 5 6 9 8 1 6 4 3 5 2 7 before and will probably recognize Evening, on Jan. 19 – just in time for cheaper options for the festival like every week! 6 5 4 1 7 2 8 3 9 his voice. His current gig is acting as the show. the free shows on Lincoln Road.” 2 7 3 9 8 5 4 6 1

THIS WEEKEND FRIDAY, JAN. 15 SATURDAY, JAN. 16 SUNDAY, JAN. 17 MLK BREAKFAST WORLD FAMOUS LIPIZ- PURE IMAGINATION LIVE EDWIN ADAMS 2010 MARLINS 2010 MARLINS MERMAIDS OPEN ZANER STALLIONS Local Musician MANATEES OPEN AUDITIONS AUDITION Exhibition of white horses WHEN: 9 p.m. WHEN: 11 a.m. WHEN: 7:30 p.m. HOW MUCH: Free WHEN: 8 a.m. HOW MUCH: Free HOW MUCH: $18.50 WHERE: The News Lounge HOW MUCH: Free WHERE: Bank United Center Fun short story reading! WHERE: Seminole Hard Rock WHERE: Seminole Hard Rock WHEN: 8 a.m. Hotel HOW MUCH: Free WHEN: 2830 p.m. WHERE: GC Ballrooms THE GREAT AMERICAN HOW MUCH: Free TRAILER PARK MUSICAL WHERE: Sweat Records PINCREST GARDENS FINE ARTS FEST THE VAMPIRE ACADEMY GRAND OPENING Book reading fo r Vampire MUSLIM STUDENT CABARET geeks ASSOCIATION JEWISH FILM FEST WHEN: 9 p.m. HOW MUCH: $10 Friday Prayer WHEN: 8:30 p.m. WHEN: 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Carl Fischer Clubhouse WHEN: 1 p.m. HOW MUCH: $60 HOW MUCH: $15 WHEN: 10 a.m. Book reading for the vamp HOW MUCH: Free WHERE: The Actors’ Playhouse WHERE: Colony Theatre HOW MUCH: Free geeks WHERE: GC 150 at Miracle Mile WHERE: Pincrest Gardens WHEN: 7 p.m. HOW MUCH: Free WHERE: Coral Gables Congre- LAUGHING GAS COMEDY FRENCH CLUB - MEETING ARTURO SANDOVAL MIAMI SYMPHONY tional Church IMPROV ORCHESTRA FIU’s one and only! ARBOLES LIBRES WHEN: 11 p.m. WHEN: 8 p.m. HOW MUCH: $12 WHEN: 7 p.m. HOW MUCH: $15-30 HOW MUCH: $15-75 WHERE: Main Street Playhouse WHERE: Knight Concert Hall WE ALL SHINE ON WHERE: Magic City Casino A benefi t exhibit and sale of WHEN: 3 p.m. SHAKESPEARE IN THE Lennon sketches & more! HOW MUCH: Free PARK WHEN: call (305)674-4470 WHERE: GC 343 WHEN: 7:30 p.m. WHEN: 12 a.m. HOW MUCH: $2 donation HOW MUCH: Free HOW MUCH: $5 WHERE: Miami Beach Com- WHERE: Barnacle State WHERE: Churchills munity Church 10 The Beacon – Friday, January 15, 2010 SPORTS www.fi usm.com

Track and fi eld releases SECOND TO ONE schedule for 2010 season

STEPHANIE GABRIEL NCAA champions such as Texas A&M, Asst Sports Director LSU, Florida, USC, and UCLA. FIU will then travel to Michigan to After a successful outdoors season last compete in the Green Valley State Univer- year, FIU track and field announced its sity Big Meet on Feb. 12-13, which is a 2010 schedule on Jan. 11. new addition to this season’s schedule and The women’s team finished with runner the final meet before the SBC Champion- up honors in the 2009 Outdoor Sun Belt ship in Murfreesboro, Tenn. Conference Championship while third- The outdoor schedule begins with the year head coach Eric Campbell also added UNF Spring Break Open in Jacksonville success by being named the SBC Women’s Coach of the Year. The team will kick off the new season at the Great Dane Classic on Jan. 22. As a staff we collec- The meet is hosted by the University tively want to run, of Albany and will take place indoors at the Armory Track & Field facility in New jump and throw York. Although the women and men’s teams against the best in the graduated a combined 12 seniors, Camp- bell seems confident about the schedule country week in and that lies ahead. His confidence is helped by his largest- week out to raise our ever recruiting class, which includes a program’s level to new program-high 26 student athletes. “We are so excited about the direction heights this program is moving and it’s going to be very exciting to see how these young Eric Campbell, Head Coach people help push this program to the level FIU Women’s Track & Field Head Coach it can really be,” Campbell said to fius- ports.com. “We are excited about our schedule and believe it is one of the best on March 5 followed by 10 more matchups in the state of Florida.” before the NCAA regional’s and champi- VICTORIA LYNCH/THE BEACON Following the Great Dane Classic, the onship on June 9-12. Senior Cornerback ODaris D’Haiti fi nished 2nd for the 2009 Rudy Award, losing out Golden Panthers will head to Gainesville “At FIU, we always want to nurture to LeVon Morefi eld of the Akron Zips. The Rudy Award is given annually to the college for the Jimmy Carnes Invitational on Jan. and cultivate a competitive spirit at all football player who shows exemplary character on and off the fi eld. 30. times,” Campbell said to fiusports.com. The third meet on the schedule will take “As a staff we collectively want to run, FIU back to New York for the ninth annual jump and throw against the best in the New Balance Invitational from Feb. 5-6. country week in and week out to raise our The Golden Panthers will face previous program’s level to new heights.”

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Apply in GC 210 or WUC 124 www.fi usm.com SPORTS The Beacon – Friday, January 15, 2010 11 Collins looks Global athletes discuss experiences

SWIMMING, page 12 “I’ve wanted to come to the states for a she was younger. to improve while,” James said. “I really liked the warm But like many other college athletes, this Sun Belt Conference Co-Female Diver of the was her fi rst time living away from home. Week on Dec. 23. “I’ve defi nitely become more independent,” rush defense “I like it here, it’s not as cold, usually,” It’s helped me grow James said. “I’ve made so many friends like Shibata joked. Amy Jackson [from the women’s soccer team COLLINS, page 12 Like Baxter, she sees that there aren’t many up, living on my own who is also Australian] who made the transition things that South Florida and Canada have in much easier for me.” GC: The only thing I can speak of to that common. and being indepen- This season, James was named Sun Belt is that when I went to Western Carolina “It’s different,” she said. dent. And getting an Conference Co-Swimmer of the Week on Dec. University, I inherited one of the worst Shibata is soaking in her new surroundings 23 and has said that this season has been a turn defenses in the country. and has been able to make the adjustment to education is the most in the right direction for the Golden Panthers. We are going to be one of the best defens- college life on her own, thanks to her team- “I know what’s expected of me and I es in the country. Whether it happens this mates and others. important thing. believe our team has improved as a whole, 100 year, next year or the year after, we will “I’d never been to a football game or a percent,” she stated. “We are always pushing make signifi cant improvement if the kids baseball game before coming here,” she said. each other and the new members on the team Namiko Shibata, Sophomore buy into the scheme and the fundamen- “It’s helped me grow up, living on my own and have brought in a great attitude.” Diver tals that we are going to teach them. By being independent. And getting an education With the season winding down and the the fourth year at Western Carolina, we is the most important thing.” Sun Belt Championships not too far off, the were top 20, so this kind of thing doesn’t While Canada may seem far from Miami, challenges mount for the team not only in the intimidate me. Elly James’ experience proves it’s all relative. weather and the academics [FIU] offered. And pool, but in life as well. The sophomore has traveled almost 10,000 being near the beach was a plus.” “There’s always a different challenge and I Jonathan Ramos conducted this interview miles from her home in Australia to come to James is no stranger to living outside of the love waking up here in Miami and facing those FIU. country, as she lived shortly in Singapore when challenges,” James said.

Earthquake hits HOME KICKING home for FIU and national athletes

MICHAEL MAROT He’s scheduled to face Sugar Associated Press Shane Mosley on Jan. 30 in Las Vegas in the biggest bout of the Pierre Garcon waited for word undefeated fi ghter’s pro career, but as his mother frantically tried to his training was interrupted by the reach relatives in Haiti. tragedy. Three days before what is Berto (25-0, 19 KOs) has been expected to be his fi rst career heavily involved in charity work playoff game, the Indianapolis and relief efforts in Haiti for years. Colts receiver was without his He’s working on another charity trademark smile. initiative to help Haiti’s recovery “Aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews. from his training camp in Winter We still have not heard much from Haven, Fla. them, and my mom is still trying Philadelphia 76ers center to call them,” Garcon said. “I’m Samuel Dalembert, who grew up in keeping in contact with my mom. Haiti, told ESPN.com he has been It’s tough to get in touch with able to reach his father, but others CHRIS GREEN/THE BEACON people down there because of the are left unaccounted for. Sophomore defender Katrina Rose earned a spot on Jamaica’s U-20 World Cup Qualifying team, set to com- phone lines.” “I can only imagine what people pete in Guatemala for a chance to play in this summer’s U-20 World Cup in Germany. Rose adds National Garcon and other athletes of there are going through,” he said. Team Member to a resume that includes fi rst and second team All Conference selection in two seasons. Haitian descent were devastated “... It’s really killing me right now. Wednesday by the powerful earth- ... It’s unthinkable. Imagine all the “I still haven’t spoken with them. to the country for his grandmother’s assistance in the recovery effort. quake that struck the capital of people just inside, and the building all communications are off, so we funeral, and he planned to return in “That (Twitter) is how we got Port-au-Prince a day earlier and is just collapses.” cannot even email them,” Laporte April with his charitable organiza- the pictures out, the word out; that’s feared to have killed thousands — In addition to notable profes- said. “My Grandma, cousins tion, the Pierre Garcon Foundation. been really helpful,” Garcon said. perhaps more than 100,000. sional athletes who have endured and almost everybody. Were just But when the 7.0-magnitude “Spreading the word and helping The parents of WBC welter- hardship, a few FIU student- praying and hoping for the best.” quake struck Tuesday, devastating others is really what it’s all about, weight champion Andre Berto are athletes have also been affected Laporte, a junior, remains opti- one of the world’s poorest nations, and this is the best situation to do from Haiti, and he has many rela- by the tragedy, including Golden mistic but can only wait at this Garcon changed the plan. Instead that now.” tives on the island. Panther football players O’Darris point. of waiting until spring, Garcon Coach Jim Caldwell and team- “Like many other Haitian-Amer- D’Haiti and Dudley Laporte. “Were taking it one day at a jumped onto his Twitter account mates offered their support, help icans, my family and I are working D’Haiti said that most of his time,” Laporte said. “We dont want and started asking fans for help. and prayers for Garcon, who is to reach my loved ones,” Berto stepfather’s family is based in to jump to conclusions.” At one point, he tweeted: “We coming off a breakout season and said. “From what we have learned Haiti, and that he has not been able Garcon, a second-year player need the US military as soon as is expected to play Saturday despite to this point, some of my family to contact them. from Mount Union in Ohio, was possible n haiti We need the 4 missing the last two games with a members are still missing, and we Most of D’Haiti’s family is in born in Carmel, N.Y., and attended million Haitian that live out side bruised hand. have already been informed that the United States though, and he high school in Florida. But his of haiti to Act now, we need da “It’s hard, not knowing what’s members of my family have passed has not been directly affected. parents immigrated to the United world!” going to happen,” he said. “The away in the earthquake.” Laporte’s situation is potentially States from Haiti and most of his As he prepares for Saturday rebuilding process is going to take The Miami native fought for more ruinous, however, as most of relatives still live there. Garcon night’s playoff game against Balti- forever.” Haiti at the Athens Olympics after his family, besides his siblings and said there are too many to count. more, Garcon intends to use the Jonathan Ramos contributed to barely missing the U.S. team. mother, live in Port-au-Prince. Last season, Garcon went back NFL’s stage as a pulpit to seek more this story.

JOIN OUR STAFF! The BEACON is always looking for talented and reliable individuals to join the staff. If you have an interest in writing, photography or even grammar, don’t be shy. Stop by one of our offi ces located in GC 210 and WUC 124. Contact Us Jonathan Ramos Sports Director Jonathan.Ramos@fi usm.com SPORTS The Beacon – 12 www.fi usm.com Friday, January 15, 2010

SWIMMING & DIVING TAKING THE PLUNGE International athletes make impact for swimming and diving

JOEL DELGADO Asst. Sports director

It has been a year of progress for the Golden Panthers, who have had to go up against tough opponents in addition to enduring frigid weather over the past two weeks. It’s been a year of growth, and that move- ment forward has been aided by some of the more experienced members of the team, some of whom have traveled a great distance and have had to adjust to a new lifestyle at FIU. Penny Baxter, a senior who transferred to FIU prior to the 2007-2008 season, has had an interesting experience as a Golden Panther. LESTHER ESCOTO/THE BEACON Originally hailing from Canada, the change of scenery increased the diffi culty of making Kariann Stephens prepares to dive during a meet against Worcester Polytechnic Institute. During the meet, Stephens helped FIU fi nish fi rst the adjustment to life in Miami. in the 200-yard relay. Namiko Shamata also fi nished fi rst with winning dives in the 1 and 3-meter dive events at the meet. “It was different for me and it was diffi cult,” Baxter said recalling her fi rst season at FIU. “It’s a completely different attitude and atmo- be able to fall back on in the future. “But now I’m able to multi-task better and Shibata, a sophomore, is having a breakout sphere back home than it is here.” Baxter is a linguist of sorts, with an ability to I’m able to juggle many things at once, and year this season, qualifying for NCAA Diving Baxter, an avid traveler, has been able to speak six languages, including French, English that’ll help me later on when I have family Zones with a score of 286.95 in the 3-meter make the transition well as a new class of fresh- and Spanish. She hopes to become an ambas- and work.” springboard on Jan. 7. She was also named men has come in, and she has been able to use sador for her home country one day. Baxter is one of two Canadians on the team, her time here as a life experience that she will “It’s been really hard work,” Baxter said. the other being diver Namiko Shibata. SWIMMING, page 11

THE BEACON INTERVIEWS: GEOFF COLLINS DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR New coordinator discusses team Geoff Collins was announced as the What did you learn the most out of and what will you run here? Golden Panthers next defensive coordi- your experience working for Nick GC: The defense we ran at UCF was nator earlier this week, replacing Phil Saban at Alabama? highly successful, we led the confer- Galiano after a season in which FIU GC: Coach Saban is one of the best ence USA in defense. That defensive was ranked 119th in the Football Bowl college coaches in the game. The big- scheme is based out of a 4-3 quarters Subdivision. gest thing coach Saban always talked coverage formation with a multitude of Collins joins the FIU staff after about was the process that it takes to coverage’s and a multitude of blitzes serving as Central Florida’s linebackers be great. We live in a results-oriented is an NFL-style defense. I want to coach last season, but previously worked world, but the process you take on sit down in the next couple of weeks, under Nick Saban at Alabama, in addi- a daily basis to be successful should watch every game from last year, tion to a stop at Western Carolina as a never change. Whether you are win- study the offenses we’re going to play defensive coordinator. ning or losing you have to stick to the against and see the personnel we have Collins was a big part of UCF’s process as long as it’s a sound one. and take all my years of experience nationally fourth ranked run defense in I think the results speak for themselves, and exposure to basically every type of 2009, and will look to have a similar and just being around somebody like defensive system you can run, to fi gure effect on FIU’s defense. coach Saban who preaches and be- out what works best for FIU. lieves in the things that I have always Why did you decide to come to FIU? thought were the way to do things. And individual players you are im- Geoff Collins: I have been aware of the Also with coach Saban, recruiting is pressed with? program since coach [Mario] Cris- the No. 1 deal. I have been a recruit- GC: There are some that stood out. The tobal took over. Any time a Division I ing coordinator before, and recruiting most important thing to me is fi nding program is in the state of Florida, you has been a big part of how I make a the guys that are hungry, the guys that know you’re going to have an opportu- name for myself, and even though I’m want to be great. Guys that are embar- nity to get some great talent. a defensive coordinator, the focus on rassed by their performance last year It’s just my job now to get them in the recruiting will not change. and want to improve. right situations and right alignments, I want the best defensive players in PHOTO COURTESY OF UCFSPORTS.COM with a little energy and a little enthu- the country to come to FIU and build What is your expectation for next Former University of Central Florida linebackers coach Geoff siasm. something special here. season? Collins was hired as FIU’s new defensive coordinator. His line- A good scheme to help them show their backers helped UCF achieve a top 5 rush defense in 2009. talent on the fi eld. What is your defensive philosophy COLLINS, page 11