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4-8-2009 The Beacon, April 8, 2009 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 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. 21, Issue 87 www.fi usm.com Wednesday, April 8, 2009 Adventureland comes Close victory over of age with grace, style ranked conference foe PAGE 5 PAGE 8

SPOTLIGHT SGC-UP SENATE AT THE BAY PAGE 3 SOC-BBC has a new executive board for the upcoming school year. Election Code OPINION PAGE 4 THE END? Graduating in three years grants plenty of benefi ts. revision, new AT THE BAY PAGE 3 Finance Code

Put down the lemonade and cool off to be presented over the summer with aff ordable wines.

SPORTS PAGE 8 DAVID BARRIOS Big swinging lefty swats a pair as FIU takes two of three from WKU. Senior Staff Writer OPINION PAGE 4 During their penultimate meeting of the 2008- 2009 school year, the senate of the Student Govern- ment Council at University Park passed a resolution to aid the Marching Band and a dilemma over the new College of Arts and Sciences senate seat was brought to the attention of the senators. COLUMN: Eric Feldman tells us how to SGC-UP Chief Justice Leonard Goenaga said deal with our topsy-turvy planet. that the fi fth College of Arts and Sciences seat was improperly fi lled. LIFE! PAGE 5 COLUMN: Eddith Sevilla breaks down The College of Social Work, Criminal Justice and calories and what they mean to you. Public Affairs is now part of the College Arts and SPORTS PAGE 8 Sciences; therefore, calling for an additional seat in JOEY KOSANKE/THE BEACON the college. PROTEST: Members of the FIU Marching Band demonstrate by the fountain in front of Primera Casa. The new seat was created under the new Student They are trying to save the band by urging students to sign a petition. The College of Architecture and Government Association constitution, which was up The Arts, who mainly funds the band, will not fund it next year. for vote by students, and passed on during the April 1-2 elections. The seat was fi lled by Pablo Martinez. Spring ball culminates with defensive “Proper protocol was not followed in the fi lling win in ninth Blue and Gold game. Golden Panther Band at of this new position,” Goenaga said. “This position can only be fi lled by special elections or fi lled during UPCOMING EVENTS next year’s elections.” FIU Chemistry Club – Interviews, A clear action has yet to be made as to how the April 8, 1 p.m.: Come with your chemis- risk after six years of service senate will deal with this issue. try set and beakers at GC 1223. The senate also discussed the FIU Marching Los Fabulosos Cadillacs, April 8, 8 JORGE VALENS Government Association and the Athletics Depart- Band, which is currently seeking funding after losing p.m.: Enjoy some middle-aged “punk” Asst. News Director ment, each funding 21 percent and 14 percent most of its funding from the College of Architecture rockers at the American Airlines Arena. respectively. and The Arts. Health Occupation Students of After six years of existence, FIU’s Golden With budget cuts on the way for the next fi scal Senate Speaker Jean Roseme and Senator Chris America – Meeting, April 9, 3:30 p.m. year, CARTA may not be able to fund the band Learn how to have really bad handwrit- Panther Marching Band faces elimination in the Cabral presented resolutions to the body, asking for ing at this event in GC 343. shadow of massive budget cuts. any longer and SGA has been talking about cutting SGA to aid the marching band in seeking funding. Service for Peace – Meeting, April On March 24, a public forum was held in an funding to the band altogether. “The Student Government at Florida Interna- 9, 4:30 p.m.: Insert Bono joke here empty sound hall at the School of Music in order “We do not have the $237,000 that was our share tional University is willing to work with the other at GC 305. for students and band members to emphasize the of the cost of the band,” said former CARTA dean, fi nancial supporters of the FIU Marching Band to Marc Anthony, April 9, 8 p.m.: Enjoy importance of the band and to voice their opinions Juan Bueno. “We don’t have that in the budget and put forward a plan to save the band in these though music form the “skeletor” at Hard Rock on how the band can be spared. we are about to lose another $800,000 now.” Café. economic times, and for the future,” read the original According to Carla Geiger, FIU Athletic Bands’ He said that these cuts are not only unavoidable, draft of the resolution. For the complete calendar, please see page 6 or director, the College of Architecture and The Arts, but are also complimentary to the budget cuts the visit FIUSM.com/calendar. “We cannot take the burden on this,” said SGC- also known as CARTA, currently funds 65 percent UP president-elect, Anthony Rionda, while speaking of the band; the remainder is split between Student BAND, page 2 to the body. WEATHER After deliberations, it was determined that SGC- WEDNESDAY UP would not seek to mediate fi nding a way to fund Partly cloudy LOW: 60 HIGH: 73 Lawmakers outline budget cuts the band. The senate did, however, pass a resolu- THURSDAY tion stating that they fully support the efforts of the band. Partly cloudy BILL KACZOR the tribe to expand gambling at its were distributed to lawmakers LOW: 70 HIGH: 79 Senator Moses Aluicio introduced a bill to strike AP Writer seven Florida casinos before the late Thursday. Appropria- FRIDAY Section II, Clause B of the Elections Code and state Supreme Court ruled it needs tions committees will consider Isolated t-storms replace the requirements for appointing elections Proposed budgets released by legislative approval. Both cham- them next week. Floor votes are LOW: 72 HIGH: 83 commissioner and board members. both Florida legislative chambers bers have since drafted separate expected the following week The new bill, approved by the senate, calls for elec- for the next fi scal year are $600 plans, with Crist’s version some- The Senate’s budget bill CONTACTS tions commissioners and elections board members to million apart, with the Senate’s where in the middle. includes $538 million from the be appointed by the SGC-UP president after submis- Editor in Chief ...... 305-348-1580 on the high side partly because it The Senate’s proposed $65.6 Seminole compact. That includes chris.necuze@fi usm.com sion of an open application. The candidates would includes Seminole Indian gaming billion spending plan for the $288 million carried over from UP Offi ce ...... 305-348-2709 then be approved by a simple majority of the senate news@fi usm.com money not in the House plan. budget year beginning July 1 is the current budget year. The tribe during any meeting where there is quorum. BBC Offi ce ...... 305-919-4722 Gov. Charlie Crist, mean- about $100 million more than the has put that much aside awaiting Comptroller Robert Chung during his presenta- bbc@fi usm.com while, on Friday stepped up efforts state’s current budget. The House the Legislature’s approval of tion to the body also said that a new Finance Code Tips & Corrections ...... 305-348-2709 to persuade both Republican- plan weighs in at $65 billion, or Crist’s compact. The Senate is tips@fi usm.com would be introduced into the senate during the April controlled chambers to approve a half a billion less than what is Advertising ...... 305-348-6994 13 meeting. advertising@fi usm.com compact he originally made with now being spent. Both proposals LEGISLATURE, page 2 2 The Beacon – Wednesday, April 8, 2009 NEWS www.fi usm.com

NEWS FLASH Budget cuts threaten marching band NATIONAL BAND, page 1 previously funded it, if there is She said that since she the country without a marching a verbal and written commit- was charged with heading the band, or an athletics band Study: College students prefer smart phones school faced last year. ment from the Athletics marching band, she had raised for that matter,” said Ernesto In addition, Athletics stated Department [and] from the the percentage of enrolled Fernandez, FIU band drum According to a recent study, college students that they have never funded University and/or college that students to 51 percent, with the major and incoming president are using cell phones, particularly smart phones, the band. they will provide the addi- ultimate goal of 100 percent of Kappa Kappa Si, a national for their core communication and entertainment “We neither fund the tional funding necessary to within the next year. fraternity for college bands. needs. band nor does it report to us. have a marching band,” Meyer Bueno noted that he had Students at the demon- The survey, conducted by Ball State University And we also have diffi cult said. been unable to arrange a stration voiced their concerns and which covered 300 universities, found that 27 and possibly unpopular deci- However, Anthony meeting with Athletics. as they signed the petition in percent of students use smart phones as compared sions ahead with more than $1 Rionda, SGC-UP president- “We scheduled a meeting, favor of keeping the band. to 19 percent usage rate among business profes- million in budget cuts of our elect highlighted the issue of it did not happen,” he said. “It’s horrible, it feels like sionals. own looming,” said Richard the marching band consisting “We did our half.” half of our spirit is taken The study also found that the rates of which Kelch, Athletics’ director of of many non-FIU students as a Before ending the forum, away,” said FIU Dazzler students use their mobile devices to send text mes- media relations, in a written concern, during the March 24 Bueno and Rionda both Lauren Perez, “[Athletic sages, pictures and video are on the rise. statement to Student Media. forum. suggested that students should bands] bring something extra, “College students are increasingly adopting cell SGA, which has funded “That’s just an additional continue to meet with deci- other than just watching the phones — particularly the smart phone — as the the marching band every year, point of how much student sion makers and to not give up game.” core communication and entertainment device for discussed eliminating SGA funding should go to a band in hope. The FIU athletic bands were their hectic lifestyles,” said Michael Hanley, a jour- funding for the band at a recent that 50 percent, more or less, Since the forum, band conceived after the creation of nalism assistant professor who heads Ball State’s budget allocation meeting are not full FIU students. That members have continued to the FIU football team in 1999, mobile communications research program. because the band is comprised is a point of concern to a lot of fi ght for their program by and were called to attention Hanley said that this movement forces compa- of a large portion of musicians people,” Rionda said. circulating a petition and by for the fi rst time on August nies to create and cater to young smart phone users, who are not FIU students. According to an e-mail holding a demonstration at the 29, 2002. Since its incep- who are tech savvy and are willing to use various Outgoing Student Govern- to Student Media by Geiger, Graham Center fountain. tion, the band has expanded different ways to communicate. ment Council at Univer- “During the 2008-09 season, Currently, the petition to perform not only at foot- A previous study by Ball State in 2005 showed sity Park President Arthur J. the band consisted of 70 has accumulated more than ball games, but basketball and that text messaging has surpassed e-mail and Meyer voiced SGA’s commit- members. Of those 70, 36 2,000 signatures and has volleyball games as well. The instant messaging communication as 94 percent ment to funding the marching were currently enrolled been submitted to President band also provides live music of students use it. band should all other parties FIU students – that number Modesto A. Maidique for for events such as Trail of the continue to be involved. includes four [Miami-Dade consideration. Torch, Commencement and “We are, as SGA, INTERNATIONAL College] transient students “If the marching band is makes a regular appearance at committed to full funding the registered for the class – and eliminated, [FIU] will be the the nationally televised Martin marching band at what we’ve Italian earthquake death toll rising 34 were not.” only Division I university in Luther King, Jr. Day Parade.

The death toll for the magnitude 6.3 earthquake that struck the town of L’Aquila, Italy, 60 miles University spending cut by 4 percent north of Rome, has risen to 150. The earthquake that struck Monday morning has LEGISLATURE, page 1 ence is higher education. The Both chambers plan to and the House by $69 million. so far left 100,000 homeless and more than 1,500 House has appropriated $4.1 reduce state jobs again. In the Nursing homes and advocates injured. Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi considering a more expansive billion for community colleges past, nearly all were unfi lled for the elderly say $787 million has declared the area a state of emergency. proposal that could bring in and universities. That’s $459 positions, but Senate Ways in health care stimulus money According to CNN, more than 4,000 rescu- nearly $400 million a year. million less than the Senate, and Means Chairman JD Alex- could have prevented those ers are currently combing the debris in search of The House has no compact which would leave their ander, R-Lake Wales, acknowl- cuts, but it’s being diverted to survivors. money in its plan, not yet budgets virtually unchanged edged as many as 800 state other purposes. formally fi led as a bill, but from the current year. employees might be laid off. “Our state is in a fi scal crisis Friday its Select Committee Both plans include base Both budget plans would that is soon to turn into a moral - Compiled by Jorge Valens on Seminole Indian Compact tuition increases — 8 percent cut nursing home spending crisis,” said Sen. Nan Rich, Review approved a scaled- in the Senate and 7 percent in — the Senate by $81 million D-Weston. down proposal expected to the House. Both also assume bring in about $100 million a lawmakers will pass a bill POLICE NOTES year. letting state universities further The Senate’s compact increase tuition up to a total March 28 would let the Seminoles have of 15 percent and that all 11 full-blown casinos including schools will approve the full A vehicle was stolen off FIU property and recovered roulette, blackjack and craps EDITORIAL BOARD INFORMATION amount. by a state trooper. The vehicle was in good condition, aside while the House version would Tim Jones, chief fi nancial from a few minor scratches. The owner of the vehicle was EDITOR IN CHIEF The Beacon offi ce is located in permit the them to have only offi cer for the Florida Board informed to retrieve her vehicle at South Land Towing. CHRISTOPHER NECUZE the Graham Center, room 210, at the the same type of slots currently of Governors, which oversees University Park campus. Questions allowed at South Florida PRODUCTION MANAGER regarding display advertising and bill- the universities, said all schools March 29 pari-mutuels. JESSICA MAYA ing should be directed to the Advertis- may not increase tuition the full ing Manager at 305-348-2709. Mailing Crist’s proposal would 15 percent. The House budget A 2007 Saturn was vandalized while parked in Univer- NEWS DIRECTOR address: Graham Center, room 210, allow the Seminoles to have cuts university spending 4 sity Park Apartments, Building E. The rear window was JULIA CARDENUTO Miami, FL 33199. Fax number is 305- Las Vegas style-slots and card 348-2712. Biscayne Bay Campus is percent. They probably can shattered and the trunk dented and scratched along with BBC MANAGING EDITOR 305-919-4722. Offi ce hours are 9 a.m. games including blackjack. He handle that because they’ve PAMELA DUQUE both doors on the passenger side. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. said it would provide the state been preparing for worst, Jones LIFE! EDITOR E-mail: Beacon@fi u.edu. Visit us online with $2.6 billion over 25 years, said. March 31 SUSANA RODRIGUEZ at: www.fi usm.com and most of that would go to The Beacon is published on Both chambers include at SPORTS DIRECTOR education. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays least $2.5 billion in federal A vehicle parked at the University Park campus was ANDREW JULIAN during the Fall and Spring semesters Offi cials from the Florida stimulus dollars and they’re damaged in what appears to be attempted burglary. Both OPINION EDITOR and once a week during Summer B. One Education Association, which fairly close on public schools door locks of the vehicle were punched in, causing severe IRIS FEBRES copy per person. Additional copies are 25 is the statewide teachers union cents. The Beacon is not responsible for — the Senate leaving spending damage to the door handle. The driver of the vehicle PHOTO EDITOR and organizations representing the content of ads. Ad content is the sole at the current rate of $6,680 claims to have locked the vehicle doors before exiting the VICTORIA LYNCH responsibility of the company or vendor. school boards and superinten- per student and the House vehicle. No property was missing from the vehicle. COPY CHIEF dents, joined Crist and Semi- increasing it by $30. Neither,

PAULA GARCIA nole leaders at a news confer- though, has any money for the Criminal mischief resulted in $1,000 worth of damage ence to tout the governor’s Florida Forever environmental to a 2003 BMW. While the vehicle was parked by the UPA plan. Crist said he wouldn’t land-buying program, which parking spaces, the left rear side of the vehicle was dented, settle for the House version. usually gets $300 million a with no scratches or paint left on the vehicle. The House’s GOP leaders, year. CORRECTIONS though, are reluctant to expand At a special session in April 2 In the issue dated April 6, the article, “Online gambling and could tell the January, lawmakers tried to governor and Senate it’s their glitch brings back paper ballots,” it was stated that suspend Florida Forever for A burglary was reported on a parked vehicle in Parking plan or nothing. Panthersoft was the software where students could the rest of the current budget Lot One at Biscayne Bay Campus. The passenger window “That would be ill-advised, vote during Student Government elections. Panther- year, but Crist vetoed that had been smashed open. Stolen items included a radio and I think, and not very polite,” soft is actually just a portal to Accelerate, the actual from a defi cit-reduction bill. Bluetooth, estimated at a $600 value. voting software. Crist said. “We try to be polite The governor, though, would and work with each other.” be powerless to restore money - Compiled by Cheryl Malone Another key budget differ- that’s never been appropriated. Contact Us Pamela Duque BBC Managing Editor pamela.duque@fi usm.com AT THE BAY The Beacon – 3 www.fi usm.com Wednesday, April 8, 2009

FOODGASM SOC-BBC New board elected

BARBARA QUIJANO Public Relations program in the School of Asst. News Director Journalism and Mass Communications. “I would like to get people more excited The Student Organizations Council has and participate on this campus,” Humphrey chosen its new executive board for the 2009- said. 2010 school year, giving the new ensemble Lorraine Henderson, a sophomore in the opportunity to lead an array of student business marketing, is the new events clubs at the Biscayne Bay Campus. coordinator. SOC’s elections meeting took place April 6 “I want to get involved with school activi- at 2 p.m. to choose the new e-board members, ties and I love to socialize,” said Henderson. which include the president, vice president, “So I want to get students more involved events coordinator, marketing director, trea- and get groups/organizations here at BBC NATHAN VALENTINE/THE BEACON surer and secretary. Voting took place among together.” e-board members, excluding the president, Sophomore Vincent Yuen, a fi nance major, BREAK TIME: Columnist Bianca Rojas pours a glass of her budget-friendly pick, Columbia along with representatives from organizations was elected as secretary for SOC because he Crest Two Vines Merlot after a long study session. at BBC, including On Point Poetry, AdScene, wanted to “get involved with school life.” Stonewall and Campus Crusade for Christ: Freshman Mais Kayyali, also a fi nance major, Impact Movement. was elected treasurer. Ending the semester with Didier Georges, current SOC-BBC presi- “All of the candidates were prepared for dent, will continue as president since he was their speech,” said Georges. “I felt that the the only one running for the position. clubs had their voices heard and that’s what Georges, a junior management and inter- counts.” a glass of wine – Euro style national business major. has been president As for the vice president, Martinez has since the Spring of 2008. new plans for SOC and wants to create more As these last few weeks berry notes balanced with If you get tired of Patricia Martinez, a sophomore psychology of a “buzz” for campus clubs. of the semester wind down, crisp tannins taking over drinking these wines, spice major, won majority of the votes of the repre- “There needs to be more promotion. I am certainly groaning your senses. them up with easy tricks sentatives of the organizations present at the Clubs [in BBC] need to start talking to clubs from my course load. If you are celebrating this that hail from Europe. meeting. She was elected vice president. at the south campus, making FIU one school My days are now summer because of With the Merlot, turn a The elected marketing director was Mary to combine shared talents and create great devoted to term graduation, there is summer party into a fiesta Humphrey, a graduate student from the Inte- events,” said Martinez. “I want to push for papers and final also a way to party by making sangria, a typical grated Communications: Advertising and that and bring more of a buzz to club fairs.” projects. So much, on the cheap – even wine punch from Spain. that I come home after your parents •Mix a bottle of red wine just to pre-nap stop footing the bill. with orange and lemon before my bedtime. That is Prosecco. juice, and a quart of club SPREADING THE WORD As soon as April BIANCA ROJAS After the cere- soda. is over, I don’t want monial champagne •Then add two sliced to see my friend Power- has been poured, shift to oranges, one sliced lemon Point for a while. this more economical, yet and sliced peaches to add What I want is a nice equally delicious bubbly. taste to the mix. glass of wine. Toast with the NV Zard- •Add sugar for taste and But what pairs well etto Prosecco di Coneg- pour it into a glass pitcher with summer time and our liano Spumante Brut at with a wooden spoon to stir pockets? $15.99 a bottle at Total – your guests will go crazy Even though our image Wine & Spirits Inc. for the authentic look and of summer time is painted All those fancy words simple recipe. with rolling beaches and just mean that this is an As for the Prosecco, turn road trips to Orlando for a Italian sparkling wine from your glass of bubbly into Disney escape, in reality Conegliano, Venice, Italy. a traditional Italian cock- we need to keep our student Prosecco is usually tail, the Peach Bellini, by budget thinking caps on. drank as an apéritif because adding fresh peach juice to That’s why I think just as with champagne, the your wine. For best results: SERGIO MONTEALEGRE/THE BEACON Columbia Crest Two Vines bubbles open up your appe- •Puree peaches in your Merlot from Washington tite, and amusingly enough, blender with a splash of SPEAKING OUT: Speaker Damaries “Dee” Cruz from “The Stigma Stops With Me” State is a great wine to relax can loosen the tongue for a water and some sugar for Miami Herald HIV/AIDS Web series discusses the importance of getting HIV tested with – especially when it is pre-dinner conversation. taste. at the lecture hosted by SJMCin the WUC Ballrooms March 31. time to kick your feet up The Zardetto Prosecco, •Pour the fruit puree and take a break from your awarded 85 points by into the bottom of your everyday life. Wine Spectator, is the glass and top with fizzy http://parking.fi Not to mention, at $6.99 best bubbly for its value club soda. at Publix, a bottle of this and boasts a light-bodied, Good luck surviving the wine is a steal. refreshing and crisp profile next few weeks. I know I Expands to to BBC! BBC! Wine Spectator, a maga- of pear and citrus fruits. It need it, but who needs the zine renowned for its gives novice drinkers a nice summer to justify pouring scoring of wines based on outline of wine flavors by myself a chilled glass of Panther Safety Tram a 100-point scale, rated the starting off in the mouth as Prosecco? I will be taking 2003 vintage of this wine dry and acidic, but ending my own advice tonight. an 87 – even naming it one smooth and sweet. Here’s to another year of the best valued wines of Even if you’re not cele- of foodgasms. provides transportation 2007. brating graduation, this throughout campus The truth of the matter wine is still a perfect is, for our college budgets, summer refreshment, Need help with a recipe this medium-bodied wine cooling you off and giving or finding a place to eat? Monday-Friday has complex texture, and you the happy summer buzz Bianca is here to help! Send 7pm to 1am is a perfect pour for every- all at once. any questions, comments or u.edu thing from an everyday Plus, while your friends Foodgasm ideas to bianca. glass, to a celebratory are downing 25-cent [email protected]. The 305-348-6173 toast. Miller Lites, you will look columnist pays for all food Have a glass and you refined with an affordable and experiences. UP and BBC will find this jam-like, fruit- and impressive glass of forward red wine, with red Prosecco. Contact Us Iris Febres Opinion Editor iris.febres@fi usm.com OPINION The Beacon – 4 www.fi usm.com Wednesday, April 8, 2009 READ THIS NOW! MAKE IT QUICK How to cope with chaos Graduating early has its perks

The world is pretty insane. that Americans cope with the We know that CEOs are going fear of uncertain times. NEDA GOMESHI While Hartwick costs about $16,000 a semester, a 12- to be making millions even Even in my own household Staff Writer credit semester at FIU costs about $1,500. Although as their companies are going it has been suggested that we Hartwick’s tuition is astronomical in comparison to under and that in any given go out and buy guns to protect With the current economic condition, everyone is FIU’s tuition, it’s still money that could be saved or, if place there is going to be geno- ourselves because things will looking for ways to reduce their expenditures. One necessary, spent elsewhere. cide, poverty, corrup- go awry any minute way in which students can accomplish this is by grad- One of the benefi ts of graduating early means tion and war crimes. COLUMN now as the economy uating in three years. getting a head start on earning your next degree. Chris- Despite multina- continues to suffer. These days, competition is severe. This generation topher Patron, a sophomore international business tional conglomerate Becoming fearful is not only competing with students within their nation, major, cannot wait to graduate so that he can move on charities that have and reclusive is not but also with students around the world. According to to earn his Masters in Business Administration. been in operation for the best way to deal a New York Times article from February 2009, “Three- Patron said, “As soon as I get my degree, I want decades to eradicate with a world gone mad, year undergraduate degrees are the norm in Europe.” to get my MBA. It’s going to cost me a lot of money cancer, hunger and the however. I try to turn to European students are graduating and getting grad- … so if I could graduate in three years, that would be like, no one expects ERIC FELDMAN more positive support uate degrees more quickly than American students. amazing.” these plagues to be a mechanisms. FIU students can do the same thing as their Euro- Another great perk about graduating early is the thing of the past anytime soon. My three favorite ways pean counterparts, for the University offers a wide ability to attain a full-time job. Working full time and The United Nations is power- to cope with existence form variety of courses at three different campuses (Univer- attending school is extremely stressful and nearly less to stop wars with its spine- a trifecta: food, friends and sity Park, Biscayne Bay and the Pembroke Pines unfeasible. Some students, like freshman Charly less resolutions and unarmed funny. Center). Online courses and evening courses are also Stiban, are motivated to complete school for the sole humanitarian aid mission. I almost like eating as much available. purpose of getting a full-time job and making money. The U.S. government is as sleeping, but the reason that Students can easily enroll in 18 credits during Stiban said, “I can’t wait to just get a degree. I powerless to stop excess in it is at the top of the list is the Fall, Spring and Summer. According to The New want to make money, but most jobs require a degree the hands of corporations and because I have a lot more time York Times, “The idea of three-year degrees has been in something, so the sooner I get one, the better.” has been contributing to the for it. (Also, “sleep” doesn’t gaining favor in some circles, with several colleges Though I know the majority of FIU students problem recently. start with an F and it would talking about or experimenting with online courses or commute to different campuses everyday while The methods for dealing have thrown off the allitera- summer school.” If students took advantage of these holding full-time jobs, a three-year track of study with such a crazy world are tion.) Seriously, though, one opportunities, they could graduate sooner, which should be considered. And some may argue that many, and as you read this cup of Moe’s queso dip and would save them time and money. students shouldn’t rush through college because of the I hope to explore some of everything is right with the Some universities are taking advantage of this idea standard “college experience:” learning and making the more common ways of world. and offering it to their students. Hartwick College, lifelong friendships. But the benefi ts of graduating coping with madness, as well Secondly, I cannot begin to a private liberal arts college in New York, will be in three years cannot be ignored. Graduating in three as provide my own sugges- offering students the choice of graduating in three years still allows one to have a fun “college life,” but it tions on how to make it from years as opposed to four to help them save money. can help start the next inevitable phase of life sooner. cradle to grave without going Becoming fearful completely batty. and reclusive is not Some people cling to their THE SOAPBOX: AN OP-ED COLUMN guns and religion, as President the best way to deal Obama has said. As he found with a world gone Student involvement key to a better SGA out soon after, though, people mad ... My three do not like being told they are favorite ways to cope clinging on to their guns and with existence: food, MOSES ALUICIO where members of SGA have gone few go out and challenge it. religion – makes them sound a Special to The Beacon above and beyond the call of duty to There were 1,482 ballots cast little crazy. friends and funny. address the needs of the student body. in this year’s election. Granted, the The truth of the matter is This article is a response to Eric While I do agree that money plays online voting system did not function that these are two methods that Feldman’s April 1 Read This Now! an important factor in making fl iers, well, but voter turnout hasn’t been many do use to cope with the adequately express how valu- column, “Call for a better SGA.” campaign signs and T-shirts, these much better in the past. At a univer- world at large. able my friends have been to me are the best ways of promoting plat- sity with more than 34,000 students, According to a 2007 survey this semester, from supporting As many of you know, March 23, forms and ideas. This is how voters these dismal voter turnouts are simply by the Pew Forum on Religion me to excel in a lot of extracur- 2009, marked the beginning of your become informed. If you do not agree inexcusable. and Public life, 78.4 percent ricular activities, encouraging Student Government Association’s with the candidates’ ideas, confront SGA is not perfect, but the only of all American adults identify me to study harder for classes election process. them about it; that is why they are in way that it will improve is with themselves as Christian. and providing me with many I am sure that as you walked GC passing out fl iers. increased student involvement and In addition to the percent memories, my fellow peer advi- through the Graham Center, you were Instead of “avoiding the candi- initiatives, not just complaints. that identify as other religions, sors and pledge brothers. approached by numerous candidates date fl iers shoved in [your] face,” ask this seems to be a mandate that Whenever someone asks seeking your vote. These encounters them how they plan on fulfi lling their Moses Aluicio is a sophomore states that America does cling me what my hobbies are, I are meant to inform the student body campaign promises and vote accord- Honors College student majoring to its religion. never list specific activities but on who is seeking to represent you, ingly. Many weep about Greek orga- in psychology and the Spring 2009 The reason that people have simply say being with people not as Feldman claims, “to create the nizations monopolizing the SGA, but Honors College senator. always been religious even that I enjoy. corrupt, priority devoid political types before this recession is that the Humor provides us with a that make up real government.” world has always been coping way to mock those things in I had the privilege to serve in COMIC RELIEF with chaos. life that otherwise fill our exis- SGA with several of the candidates Religion was created as tence with strife and a means running for senate, and I can honestly a way to deal with the crazy for disconnecting with reality. say that helping the FIU student body notion of a bunch of cogni- Whether you go to one of is their top priority. Several of these zant beings being on a spinning Student Programming Coun- candidates, and other members of piece of rock in the middle of cil’s frequent comedy shows the SGA, were a part of the Florida the universe with no idea how or simply tune into the “Daily Student Association’s “Rally in they got there or what they are Show” each night, laughter is Tally,” where they spent more than supposed to be doing, and with helpful to the body and mind. eight hours on a bus to Tallahassee to an inclination to destroy each So laugh with me, preach confront the state legislature on issues other. to me or wrap your head in such as differential tuition, reducing Despite the recent tight- duct tape as long as you are budget cuts to higher education, the ening of wallets, gun sales have doing whatever is most effec- Bright Futures scholarship program spiked both locally and nation- tive to keep your head from and measures to provide students the ally. This creates an even more exploding. opportunity to vote on their college

convincing picture of one way campuses. IRIS FEBRES/THE BEACON This is just one of many instances Contact Us Susana Rodriguez Life! Editor susana.rodriguez@fi usm.com LIFE! The Beacon – 5 www.fi usm.com Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Pulse

Mottola’s latest brings back the sweet from Watching labels a Superbad good step for health ANA MARIA AROCHA Contributing Writer You’ve probably checked thin crust equals less calories out the nutrition facts label and less fat. But boy, was I Writer-Director Greg Mottola has a here and there at the grocery wrong. knack for capturing adolescent embar- store. Perhaps you’ve turned This deliciousness totaled rassment, angst and pain. In Adventure- to the label to read how much a whopping 590 calories, and land, he depicts all the self-loathing and sugar is in one serving of your that’s only for one serving! confusion many recent college gradu- favorite cereal or how many “Calories provide a ates face when thrust into the real world calories are in that measure of how much pack of chocolate energy you get from a in a quirky, nostalgic way. COLUMN The last time we heard from him chip cookies. serving of this food,” was with 2007’s Superbad, when he But the truth of according to the introduced viewers to misfi t teenagers the matter is that FDA. “Many Amer- that are willing to do anything to make the more you know icans consume more their last high school party memo- about the things you calories than they rable and move on to college a bit more are consuming, the need without meeting experienced. more likely you will recommended intakes EDDITH SEVILLA What could easily have become a be to avoid unneces- for a number of coworkers, a cliché and fallen into the black hole of sary calories. nutrients.” motley crew of forgotten teen comedies turned out to be The U.S. Food and Drug Some nutrients should be fellow misfi ts conscience-driven and rather insightful. Administration’s Web site has consumed with limits: fats, just looking for a In his latest comedy, Adventureland, a detailed description on how carbohydrates and sodium and good time. Mottola proves once again that he can to read your foods’ nutrition are identifi ed in yellow. There is the take the average coming-of-age story facts. “Eating too much fat, satu- intellectual pipe- and make it memorable. But if you’re like me, rated fat, trans fat, choles- smoker Joel Loaded with the same crude jokes, I prefer a quick rundown. terol or sodium may increase (Martin Starr), hilarious one-liners and off-the-wall Here’s the load: your risk of certain chronic the mysterious antics that made Superbad a success, WWW.IMDB.COM/COURTESY PHOTOS A nutrition facts label diseases, like heart disease, and obviously Adventureland takes a sensitive starts off with “serving size,” some cancers, or high blood damaged Em (Kristen Stewart), accepted by the most attractive girl approach to growing up. and that means one serving. pressure,” according to the amusement park superstar/mainte- in the park. Starr’s comedic timing Set in Pennsylvania in 1987, it is Therefore, all the information administration. nance man Mike (Ryan Reynolds), is impeccable and he steals every the story of James (Jesse Eisenberg), a that follows is for one serving The FDA recommends that and the quirky managers Bobby scene he is in, regardless of whether recent college graduate with his eyes set only. for protein you choose foods (Bill Hader) and Paulette (Kristen he has any lines. on attending Columbia University for “If you double the servings that are lean, low in fat or fat Wiig), among others. The strangest casting choice grad school and backpacking through you eat, you double the calo- free. Mottola has a talent for choosing was Ryan Reynolds. His credits Europe over the summer. ries and nutrients, including One of the major things actors that can take stereotypical include funny but not necessarily But when his father gets demoted, the percent daily value,” on the nutrition facts label is characters and make them seem smart movies where acting ability James fi nds himself looking for a according to the FDA. the percent daily value (DV) unique and oddly familiar. His is a minimum. Once again, Motto- summer job instead of hostel-jumping If you want to compare because it helps you connect leading man, Jesse Eisenberg, is la’s casting was on point. Reynolds with his friends. nutritional information nutrients in a serving to their enough of a reason to watch the succeeded in making an otherwise Overeducated and inexperienced, between brands or products contribution to your total daily fi lm. Eisenberg’s perfectly awkward detestable character relatable. the only place willing to hire him is a such as almonds or milk, you diet, according to the FDA. performance is disarming in its He plays both friend and rival to theme park. Unhappy to be wasting his may want to keep an eye out There is always a reminder sincerity. James and achieves the same rela- time in a job that is clearly beneath him, for serving size on each brand, that the percent DV is based Watching him explain why tionship with the audience. Reyn- James soon discovers that his expec- suggests the site. on a 2,000-calorie diet. James is still a virgin at 22 is uncom- olds portrays his character, Mike, as tations were dead Next up, calories. With that said, next time fortable yet heartwarming; you feel good-natured, confused and lacking wrong when he Last Saturday I had a you do your groceries, make embarrassed for him but proud at proper direction. He is not aware meets his terrible craving for pizza, so sure you check your nutri- the same time. of his fl aws, but acknowledges his while I was at the grocery tion facts to make sure you’re Surprisingly, Kristen Stewart did mistakes, and moves forward. store I stopped by the frozen not consuming more than you not disappoint. Based on her perfor- Charged with a collection of foods section to grab a small should! mance in the vampire romance recognizable 80’s indie rock, Adven- one. Twilight, expectations were not tureland is an honest and perceptive I found Digiorno’s “Thin Check your Pulse very high for Stewart. But here she exploration of young adult relation- Crispy Crust Pepperoni” every Wednesday for manages to portray Em’s mysteri- ships when youth ends and the real pizza for one. I the latest in health and ousness, pain and confusion with a world sets in. figured wellness. self-aware quality that makes her With this sweet, quirky, romantic real and relatable. When she cries alternative to Superbad, Mottola has you want to cry too, not because found himself yet another the moment is particularly winner. heavy, but because you have gained some insight into this character that could not have otherwise been attained without Stewart. Perhaps the most memo- rable character was Joel. This lovable Russian literature buff revels in how far from cool he is while yearning to be www.fi usm.com LIFE! The Beacon – Wednesday, April 8, 2009 6

Matisyahu discusses religious RAISING AWARENESS background, new album

NATALIE LEVY M: Well, it definitely incorpo- able to listen; if you’re a lover of Staff Writer rates lots of elements from elec- music and it penetrates into your tronic music. My sense or my soul and you’re creative then On March 26, the eve of the belief in music is that it has the you’ll find a way to make it yours Miami Winter Music Conference, ability to transport and, sort of, and, kind of, express yourself in Brooklyn emcee, Matisyahu, sat open consciousness. It seems to that form. down with The Beacon before a me that electronic music has that concert to discuss his latest album ability, it provides that element. B: So when you first started, and future tour plans. you were this Yeshiva kid, going B: How did you get to school and then sitting on The Beacon: I under- started? Did you always your couch and beat-boxing? stand you have a show know that you wanted to M: No, I didn’t go to Yeshiva tonight; you’re cutting be a musician? until I was like 22, 23. I was it kind of close. M: Well, I always loved raised with not much of a Jewish Matisyahu: Oh, no. music, since I was a little background, I had some Jewish We probably won’t go on MATISYAHU kid, and I always wanted background but I went to public until a little bit later. to be involved in music. school. It took me a little while to figure Most of my friends were into B: Alright, no problem then! out what it was that I wanted to rap music but I was kind of like So, you’re down here for the do and I always sang, but I started the hippie kid, because I was into Winter Music Conference? listening to a lot of reggae music Phish and some of The Grateful M: Yeah, that’s right. initially and that kind of pushed Dead and that stuff and then me to want to be a rapper and a sooner or later someone played B: When does Light drop? singer. me a Nas album, It was written,

M: It should be out like May/ and I just fell in love with that CHRIS GREEN/THE BEACON June. I think probably early June. B: Coming out of Brooklyn, record. FLAG GARDEN: Colored fl ags outside Graham Center, as part of I finished the songs a while ago and especially in the Jewish From then on, I just started the Take Back the Night campaign, represent the FIU women who and, you know, pushed back the community, coming out and writing rhymes and my friends will be affected by sexual assault. record a little bit. I went back doing reggae, how was that would all rap and free-style and I into the studio and recorded with perceived? started beat-boxing and that’s just some guys out in L.A. and in M: Well, I was raised in White kind of how I got started. to the Jewish world were with maybe that didn’t come across in London. Those are some really Plains, New York; it was a pretty the Lubavich community. People a way that everyone was able to great songs, so those are finally typical suburban upbringing. I B: If I can ask you a more really started to ask me about hear and completely understand finished and you’ll be hearing didn’t become religious and move personal question, in 2007 the movement but I felt that I what I meant but that’s just what them soon. to Brooklyn until I was already in you did a New Times inter- really wasn’t the right spokes- happens. my early 20s. view where you said that you person for it being that I wasn’t B: I was speaking to someone So, it was kind of like any no longer necessarily iden- raised in that community. I was B: How has Miami been earlier and they were telling kid sitting there and listening to tify yourself with the Lubavich fresh and new to the community, treating you? me how you’re getting into the reggae music so, I guess, for me movement, what influenced you three, four, five years being reli- M: It’s always great whenever electronica/DJ culture, can we it just really hit home and I took to go in a different direction? gious and hanging out in Crown we come here. I think we’re actu- expect something different out on the whole thing. M: Well, because I live in Heights. I just wanted people to ally going to start our tour here of Light than what we’ve seen I just listened to it all the time. Crown Heights and I went to like me for me and not really asso- May 30, either in Miami or Fort from you in the past? I think the main thing is being Lubavich Yeshiva most of ties ciate me with any one group. And Lauderdale.

FRIDAY • APRIL 3 SATURDAY •APRIL 4

WHAT: French Club - Exotism in Literature WHAT: Health Occupation Students of Conference America-Meeting WHEN: 12 p.m. WHEN: 3:30 p.m. WHERE: GC Panther Suite WHERE: GC 343 CONTACT: 305-348-2285 CONTACT: 305-348-2285

WHAT: FIU Chemistry Club - Interviews WHAT: Service for Peace - Meeting WHEN: 1 p.m. WHEN: 4:30 p.m. WHERE: GC 1223 WHERE: GC 305 CONTACT: 305-348-2285 CONTACT: 305-348-2285

WHAT: Muslim Students Association WHAT: National Student Speech Language WHEN: 2 p.m. and hearing Assoc. - Meeting WHERE: GC 305 WHEN: 7:30 p.m. CONTACT: 305-348-2285 WHERE: GC 305 CONTACT: 305-348-2285 WHAT: Italian Club - Films WHEN: 6 p.m. WHAT: Inventing Kin - Premiere WHERE: GC 305 WHEN: 8 p.m. CONTACT: 305-348-2285 WHERE: Bill Crosford Theatre CONTACT: 305-248-4861 WHAT: Los Fabulosos Cadillacs WHEN: 8 p.m. WHAT: Marc Anthony WHERE: American Airlines Arena WHEN: 8 p.m. CONTACT: 786-777-1000 WHERE: Hard Rock Cafe CONTACT: 954-327-7625 Compiled by Mariana Ochoa www.fi usm.com SPORTS The Beacon – Wednesday, April 8, 2009 7 Off ense overmatches Western Kentucky pitching

BASEBALL, page 8 but head coach Turtle Thomas to go away quietly. Polizzano followed Gaynor’s lead and hit a He did not disappoint and shut was not going to let his hitters pitched seven innings and gave two-run home run as well to cut the door on the Hilltoppers, who Polizzano worked with his become complacent against an up five runs, all in the second the lead to 10-9. lead the conference with a 9-3 first advantage of the game and offensive roster leading the Sun inning. Marban closed out the inning, record against Sun Belt teams. after a shaky beginning, regained Belt Conference in team average He did not come out for the and the Golden Panthers’ offense The Golden Panthers have yet his form to shut down the Hill- (.343) and slugging percentage start of the eighth inning. got two more runs in the bottom to lose a series this season. Their toppers’ offense for five consec- (.568). Mason McVay walked one of the eighth to give the bullpen 19-8 overall record puts them utive innings. “When we had eight, I went batter on four pitches and was some breathing room. one win away from matching last He gave the offense a chance up to every hitter, and said, ‘You taken out of the game. R.J. Fondon entered the ninth season’s. to keep on building a larger lead. think eight [runs] is enough?’ Eric Berkowitz faced Wade inning even though he began “They’ve been the best team “My fastball was really good They said, ‘No.’ Then when we Gaynor, who drilled a two-run the season as one of the starting in the conference all year and today,” Polizzano said. “I really had 10 [runs], I said, ‘You think home run. Jorge Marban entered pitchers. to take two of three from them didn’t have it my last couple 10 is enough?’ They all said ‘no’ the game and finally got the first Marban was closing games all is big,” Townsend said. “I think starts, but then I found it.” again.” out of the inning. season, but Fondon took the ball it sends a message to the rest of The lead got up to five runs, And coach Thomas was right But Marban would not go in the final inning for the first the conference that we’re the real as the Hilltoppers were not going unscathed as Matt Hightower time this season. deal this year.” Team beats fi rst-ranked foe notice of public hearing since 2007, McClain shines The University Fee Committee will be holding SOFTBALL, page 8 Freshman Jenny Welch then came up for the Golden Panthers and laid down a public hearings on April 13, 2009 at: beat No. 18 Ohio State. double to score two runs and give FIU a McClain held the Ragin’ Cajuns to 3-1 lead. just two runs and eight hits after they had Gabriele Bridges hit her 11th homer Biscayne Bay Campus: University Park Campus: totaled 17 in the two wins the day before. of the season for UL (23-8, 6-3 SBC) in 10:30 am 2:00 pm Bourgeois (16-5) pitched all seven the bottom of the sixth inning to bring her WUC 155 GC East Ballroom innings for UL and struck out seven. team within one run, however, McClain The FIU offense used four UL errors was able to efficiently defend in the final to total four hits and score three runs, one moments to earn the win for FIU (20-22, The objective of these meetings will be to give interested earned, breaking the Ragin’ Cajuns record 4-8 Sun Belt). of going 44.2 innings without giving up an The Golden Panthers will play their individuals an opportunity to hear arguments pertaining to the earned run. next game at Florida Atlantic in Boca proposed increase to the Activity & Service Fee. The amended FIU had runners at first and second with Raton on Wednesday, April 8 at 6 p.m., fee will become effective in the Fall 2009 term. one out in the top of third inning when followed by a three-game series against Students and other interested individuals are invited to attend Rodriguez singled to right field with the Middle Tennessee which will begin with a these meetings. game tied at 1-1 to load the bases. double-header on April 10 at 5 p.m. Contact Us Andrew Julian Sports Director andrew.julian@fi usm.com SPORTS The Beacon – 8 www.fi usm.com Wednesday, April 8, 2009 BASEBALL: FIU 12, WKU 9 Panthers win series against top opponent

VICTORIA LYNCH/THE BEACON

TYLER MADE: Tyler Townsend hits his fi rst of two two-run home runs against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers on April 5 at home.

SERGIO BONILLA Hilltoppers. In addition, Poliz- Asst. Sports Director zano accidentally hit catcher Matt Rice on his helmet’s ear Tyler Townsend chose the flap, which knocked him onto right game to get out of his brief the floor. Trainers tended to him slump. and controlled the blood coming With the three-game series from the top part of his left ear. PHOTOS BY VICTORIA LYNCH/THE BEACON on the line, the conference’s top The inning got messier for Poliz- hitter helped send its best team zano when he gave up a three-run SPRING IS HERE: Brandon Ellison wraps up running – the Western Kentucky Hilltop- homer to Casey Dykes to put his back DeMario Lee in the 2009 Blue and Gold pers – back home with a 12-9 team in an early 5-0 deficit. spring game. (Above) Jason Frierson, who led the loss on April 5 at University Park The Hilltoppers’ offense drew team with 66 receiving yards evades a Marcellus Stadium. blood first, but Townsend’s blast Manear tackle. (Left) DT Jonas Murrell stalks Lee, in a Down 5-0 in the third inning, would jump-start the once dormant contest that was dominated by the FIU defense. The Townsend launched his first of Golden Panthers’ offense. D won the scrimmage 43-21. two two-run home runs in the In the fourth, Ryan Mollica’s game to begin his team’s come- double with the bases loaded back victory. Townsend had just gave the Golden Panthers their four hits in his previous 14 at bats first lead of the game at 6-5. Defense forces six turnovers in win coming into the third game of the Townsend was up next, and he series. delivered another home run over ANDREW JULIAN overs, offensive fi rst downs, touchdowns, fi eld An opposite field home run the left field wall. He went 3-for- Sports Director goals and extra points. cut the lead to 5-2 and gave 5 with five RBI. Mollica finished FIU saw its quarterbacks come out of the spring starting pitcher Corey Polizzano 2-for-5 with three RBI. Pablo The FIU defense forced the offense into mistakes with solid efforts in the game. Incumbent starter the support he was looking for. Bermudez was the lead off hitter throughout the evening, to take the spring game Paul McCall was 14-of-22, with an interception, but “I know my hitters are going and he scored twice on 2-for- 43-21. led FIU to its fi rst score, one of two Dustin Rivest to score a run eventually because 4 hitting. The first three hitters In the eighth annual Blue and Gold game, the fi eld goals. Transfer Wesley Carroll fi nished 11-of- they always do,” Polizzano said. combined to go 7-for-14 with FIU defense intercepted four passes and forced two 17 with a touchdown pass to Junior Mertile. Polizzano got in trouble in the eight RBI and five runs. fumbles, en route to a 43-21. Mertile hauled in fi ve passes for 62 yards, in his second inning due to wild pitches Points were awarded for defensive stops, turn- fi rst spring game. and the power hitting of the BASEBALL, page 7 Team salvages one game versus No. 20 Louisiana

STEPHANIE GABRIEL UL 9, FIU 0 the only Golden Panther to reach Once UL had produced a 5-0 FIU 3, UL 2 Staff Writer base; she went 1-for-1 with a lead, Paige Cassady came in to Sun Belt Preseason Pitcher With defeat lurking in their single and walk. relieve Gniadek. She gave up two of the Year, Ashley Brignac (6- minds from day one, FIU tried The FIU softball team seemed runs due to an error before Ashley 2), was too much for the Golden UL 8, FIU 0 to avoid a weekend sweep on the to have no answer for No. 20 McClain came in the bottom of Panthers in the first game; she second day of the series. University of Louisiana. UL starting pitcher Donna the fifth inning to finish up for threw a five-inning, one-hitter, Freshman Ashley McClain (2- The Ragin’ Cajuns felt right Bourgeois (16-4) posed the FIU. resulting in a 9-0 loss for FIU in 0) pitched her second complete at home on the first day of the biggest threat in game two, UL recorded 11 hits and eight five innings due to the run-rule. game of the season and led the three-game series, which took striking out eight Golden Panthers runs to steal the second win, Kasey Barrett (10-9) threw Golden Panthers to their first place in Lafayette on April 4-5, over five shutout innings. another game that ended due to 3 1/3 innings for FIU giving up defeat of a ranked team since continuing their hot streak of not FIU freshman Jennifer the run-rule in just five innings, all nine runs, four of which were February 2008 when the team allowing an earned run in their Gniadek (7-9) gave up five runs which marked FIU’s third run- earned. last seven games this season. to the Ragin’ Cajuns in just three rule loss of the season. Senior Kim Rodriguez was innings. SOFTBALL, page 7