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10-24-2008 The Beacon, October 24, 2008 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. 21, Issue 32 www.fi usm.com October 24, 2008

LACK OF ATTENDANCE CASH FOR COLLEGE PRESIDENTIAL REVIEWS FRESHMAN PHENOM SGC-BBC senators no show Amendment Eight’s pros and cons Bush biopic exceeds expectations Gonzalez makes major impact

AT THE BAY PAGE 3 OPINION PAGE 4 LIFE! PAGE 5 SPORTS PAGE 8

Student retention TRICK OR TREAT rates dropping

EDUARDO MORALES year students. Staff writer But as students continue their education, their retention rates In September, the Board of decrease. Trustees reported the University’s In 2004, the rate for students failure to reach its goal of improv- returning for their third year was ing student retention rates. 73.7 percent. In 2003, the rate for The BOT was hoping to reach students returning for their fourth a full-time, fi rst-year student re- year was 67.5 percent. Numbers tention rate of 88 percent. Instead, show that the likelihood of stu- only 81.3 percent of fi rst-year stu- dents coming back a second year dents returned for a second aca- are strongest but the chance of demic year in 2005. them returning for a third and so “We had a set back last year,” on steadily decrease. said Thomas Breslin, chairman Transfer student retention and of Faculty Senate. “Our numbers part-time student retention num- were not so good and we unfor- bers look even bleaker. tunately went back a few percent- According to the Offi ce of age points.” Retention, the University’s “reten- By defi nition, student reten- tion and graduation of [Associate tion is the ability to keep students of Arts] transfer students is at the coming back for another annual bottom of the [State University term at any given university. System] and has been for the last While the University’s reten- 7 years. Non-AA degree trans- tion rates are low, they are still fers have even lower rates,” and above national average, which part-time retention rates are 30 sits around 75 percent. percent. Since the 1993-94 academic This information is based on year, the Offi ce of Retention re- retention data from students in the ported retention rates have hov- 2000-2001 term who did not come ered around the 80 percent range. back for the fall term in 2001. The lowest percentage was in The same report states that 1994-95 at 78.9 percent and high- “on average, 20 percent of those est in 2001-02 at 83.5 percent. [students] who leave have a 3.0 Generally, the University has [GPA] or higher. This rate is in- compensated with the lack of re- creasing annually.” turning students by increasing the The University is now looking amount of freshmen each year. to improve these numbers with a While the retention rate dipped new Web site. in 2005, the number of full- “We’re setting up Grad Xpress VICTORIA LYNCH/THE BEACON time freshmen increased by 17 to be put online in March,” said percent. Vice President of Enrollment B-HIVE: Ana Mendieta, a political science major, and James Richardson an international business For the last 12 years, the stu- Services Corinne Webb. “The and human resource major, fi ll out candy grams to be sent to friends by the RHA B-HIVE awareness dent retention rate increased club. slightly for fi rst-year to second- RETENTION, page 2 Th ird party candidates look to make an impact

CHERYL MALONE Kennedy said. working class citizens and younger individu- Kennedy does not see a single similar- Staff writer Kennedy became a supporter of the work- als, according to Kennedy. ity between the Republican and Democratic ing class since 1981 when she worked in coal Calero and Kennedy are currently working party candidates and her party’s socialist For most Americans, the presidential elec- mines. on an immigration bill. The bill – an anti-de- movement. tion is about the Republican and Democratic While working in a mine in Utah, Kennedy portation bill – hopes to result in the immedi- The SWP believes in the establishment of candidates; most forget that there are about 15 witnessed the exploitation of Mexican work- ate opening of all borders for undocumented a worker’s and farmer’s government, and the third-party candidates running for the big seat ers fi rst hand. workers. immediate withdrawal of U.S. troops from at the White House. “We began to talk among ourselves and Kennedy will be in New Orleans over the Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan or any other coun- Socialist Workers Party vice presiden- began to stand up for our rights,” Kennedy next few days, where a crisis is developing. try with U.S. troops in it. tial candidate, Alyson Kennedy, visited said. Because the city is dominated by the “The wars are being fought to protect University Park on Wednesday, Oct. 15. to In Sept. 2003, there was a 10-month in- wealthy and because of the destruction of pub- the economic interests of the wealthy in the campaign for the party’s presidential candi- ternationally supported strike that resulted in lic housing in New Orleans, the working class United States,” Kennedy said. date, Roger Calero, and to promote the social- higher pay and better treatment of workers. will become a “mixed income” class, which Kennedy believes the Democratic and ist party’s goals. Today, Kennedy continues to fi ght for will be very expensive, Kennedy explained. Republican parties insult the working class For Kennedy and her party, the rights of similar causes, in which the poor, working “It shows what the wealthy have in store and unions and they are against helping or ad- working class citizens are important. class or immigrants must battle against the for this country,” Kennedy said. “The wealthy vancing the people. This can be seen through “Workers are beginning to see a seed of wealthy. areas are rebuilt but the working class a revolutionary movement in this country,” Among the party’s highest supporters are neglected.” SOCIALIST, page 2 2 The Beacon – October 24, 2008 NEWS www.fi usm.com Students have say in future renovation projects

NATALEE GIL-DEL RIO which focuses on St. to the Graham Center. you like and dislike about the outside of the Staff Writer the University’s advancement. Also, the proposed arrangement for four of classroom or the building itself?” and “What Some of the new buildings that will be fi n- the new buildings – such as the Nursing Health do you like or dislike about the campus in The Classroom Design Standards ished by the end of 2012 are the Academic Science Building and the Stemple School of general?” Committee, created by Provost Ronald Support Center, an International Hurricane Public Health – will be built by the space tak- Students contributed ideas by writing down Berkman, held a focus group in Green Library Center, en over by private suggestions on sticky notes provided 100 on Oct. 22 to gain insight from students School for the Housing by the committee. about classrooms and the campus for upcom- International This is an opportunity to express what bothers you parking “I think that having a larger desk space ing construction and renovation projects at Studies, the lot locat- would be benefi cial to students, as well as in class, the opportunity to speak out about what University Park. Stemple ed next to more outlets for the laptops and installing an “This is an opportunity to express what School of you like and don’t like in the classroom. Everglades interactive white board,” said sophomore and bothers you in class, the opportunity to speak Public Health Gloria Jacomino, director Hall. international business major Ivana Harris. out about what you like and don’t like in the and a Nursing Academic Space Management After The committee expects to hold more of classroom,” said Gloria Jacomino, director of Health Science the presen- these focus groups in the future by branch- Academic Space Management. Building, tation, more ing out to the Biscayne Bay Campus and the Jose Rodriguez, director of Operations among others. than 30 students were split up into three dif- Engineering Campus to gain as much feed- Analysis, explained the importance of the fo- “We have spent a whole year planning these ferent groups, where they were given the op- back, opinions and insight from different cus group because of the size of the upcoming buildings and everyone has been involved in portunity to give feedback or ideas about the students. projects. this process from deans to student partners,” construction of new classrooms with a differ- “We didn’t know what to expect from the He used a visual explanation of the future Rodriguez said. ent design and the renovation of current class- students when we set up the focus group. Now physical progress of the University. The development, the committee explained, rooms, also a major project of the committee. we know that students are actually interested He explained that deans, professors, direc- will be so large that the University is expect- The three groups were separated accord- in participating in this project and we hope to tors and committee members came together ing to build a road to be named “Avenue of the ing to these three questions: “What would you have future meetings in the other campuses as to create a fi ve, 10,and 20-year outlook plan Sciences” that would link diagonally from 8th like to see inside the classroom?” “What do well,” Jacomino said. New Web site designed Socialist Workers Party to help plan degree track expects more notoriety

is involved with the social- The strength of the SWP RETENTION, page 1 SOCIALIST, page 1 ists in New Orleans, as well will only increase, according The way that they cut down a lot of programs Web site [is more accessi- working conditions in which as supporting “The Cuban to Kennedy. ble] than the current SASS may be a reason. And there’s also more history to there is no union, wages are Five” regarding the impris- “Based on unions not like report [and] will allow stu- [a school like] FSU. FIU was more of a last resort. being driven down and no onment of fi ve Cuban men today, which are weak, we’re dents to plan out their fu- health insurance is provided, who were living in Miami to going to see greater struggles Carlos Morales ture semesters.” she explained. infi ltrate terrorist groups in by working people leading to sophomore Grad Xpress, part of the At the moment, Kennedy the area. stronger unions,” she said. plan to expand PantherSoft, will display every detail comes with an upgraded ing to get my bachelor’s about an enrolled student Panther Chat, where stu- in chemistry. I’m planning NEED HELP WITH YOUR in an entirely accessible dents can ask questions for on getting into the School fashion. faculty to answer at any of Medicine.” DISSERTATION OR THESIS? The Web site’s data- hour of the day. Another student offers However, students are an alternative explanation. base will show classes LET MINIMAX CONSULTING taken, average GPAs, the still torn as to why it is that “The way that they student’s standing in terms some transfer to other col- cut down a lot of the pro- BE YOUR ACE-IN-THE-HOLE of their pacing and several leges while others fi nish grams may be a reason,” charts which portray this their four to six year pro- said sophomore Carlos information in an easy-to- grams at the University. Morales. “And there’s also understand way. “They can’t afford it,” more history to [a school The program also said sophomore Cindie like] FSU. FIU was more Rierra. “I plan on stay- of a last resort.”

CORRECTIONS No matter what stage your paper is in, from the conceptual In the issue dated Oct. phase through final revisions, we can assist you in taking EDITORIAL BOARD 22, 2008, the story titled that final step towards your degree. ‘College of Medicine CHARLIE GRAU EDITOR IN CHIEF CHRISTOPHER NECUZE PRODUCTION MANAGER unveils inaugural class,’ Contact Us Now To Learn About All Of Our Services: it incorrectly said each DANIELLA BACIGALUPO NEWS DIRECTOR JULIA CARDENUTO BBC MANAGING EDITOR student in the program JONATHAN DAVILA LIFE! EDITOR will be assigned to two • Assistance With Both Quantitative & Qualitative ERIC FELDMAN OPINION EDITOR ANDREW JULIAN SPORTS DIRECTOR families and will monitor Studies In Any Discipline VICTORIA LYNCH PHOTO EDITOR their health across four LEONCIO ALVAREZ COPY CHIEF • Expert Guidance With Data Analysis Using Any years. It should have said Software Package (SPSS, STATA, NVIVO, Etc) INFORMATION a team of interdisciplinary • Advice On Selecting Th e Best Statistical Methodology The Beacon offi ce is located in the Graham Center, room 210, at students will be assigned the University Park campus. Questions regarding display adver- one to two families. • Full Editing & Formatting Services For Any Formal tising and billing should be directed to the Advertising Manager The Beacon will gladly Style (APA, MLA, Etc. ) & Your School’s Particular at 305-348-6994. Mailing address: Graham Center, room 210, change any errors. Call Miami, FL 33199. Fax number is 305-348-2712. Biscayne Bay Requirements Campus is 305-919-4722. Offi ce hours are 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., our UP offi ce at 305-348-

Monday through Friday. E-mail: Beacon@fi u.edu. Visit us online 2709 or BBC at 305-919- • Research Assistance for Literature Reviews at www.fi usm.com 4722. • Ultra-Fast Transcription & Data Entry Services Minimax Consulting is a mathematical and statistical JOIN OUR STAFF! consulting firm comprised of a team of PhD statisticians and researchers who have worked with many Fortune 500 The BEACON is always looking for talented and reliable individuals to join the staff. If you have an companies, as well as smaller businesses, throughout the interest in writing, photography or even grammar, globe. Call or email us today for a free consultation. don’t be shy. www.MinimaxAcademicConsulting.com Stop by one of our offi ces located in GC 210 and 1-401-659-4027 WUC 124. [email protected] Contact Us Julia Cardenuto BBC Managing Editor atthebay@fi usm.com AT THE BAY The Beacon - 3 www.fi usm.com October 24, 2008 Lack of attendance raises SGC concerns

BARBARA QUIJANO fessional if their meetings had a quorum, senators can still have a meeting without Staff Writer reaching that quorum on Mondays,” Silva said. Attendance has been a problem The senate meetings, separated from the this year for the Student Government general meetings where both the executive Council-Biscayne Bay Campus sena- board and the senate meet, have started to tors, who hold voting power in passing take place this year to bring the senators bills and resolutions for the benefit of together to discuss bills and resolutions BBC students. and the budget, according to Paul. The SGC-BBC Finance Committee “Since we didn’t know about these has approved an allocation of $800 to meetings, we chose classes not in accor- the Bay Vista Hall housing complex, but dance with them, making sure for next the bill will not pass until the commit- year to have a set time,” said Laura Torres, tee gets quorum, said Sholom Neistien, finance committee member and lower divi-

JEFFREY BENTZ/COURTESY PHOTO speaker of the senate. sion senator. “Both an appropriations bill and General senator Simone Worsdale has DIVERSE MIXER: Gaieshan Dejean and Michelle Pannullo, undeclared freshmen; Mau- resolutions bill have to be passed,” said resigned from SGC-BBC, and Honors ricio Diocis, journalism/creative writing major; and Julio Gonzalez, hospitality man- Neistien, in order for the allocation of College senator Barbara Hawkins is think- agement major; mingle with other students over lunch at the Diversity Day luncheon $800 to be given to housing. ing of resigning too, Neistein said. hosted by Campus Life on Oct. 21. The appropriations bill addresses “Apathy, lack of experience and not the allocation of money toward a spe- enough time in their schedule,” according cific committee, while the resolutions to Neistein, are some of the reasons there Diversity Day celebrates are implemented in the bi-laws and has been poor attendance at the senate constitution. meetings. With 13 senators taking part in “Some are kind of lost, while new ones SGC-BBC and one application under- are learning as they go along,” Torres culture, addresses stereotypes way, only eight of the 13 senators have said. been attending the general meetings “There are the overachievers and ones who need to be guided in what their posi- actually black, according to his Web site, www. on Wednesdays at 3:30 p.m., accord- DAVON JOHNSON tion entails; they have to be guided through incognitotheplay.com. ing to Ana Maria Silva, president of it,” Silva said. Contributing Writer “I thought the play was excellent; I could SGC-BBC. Students who don’t fulfill their elected relate to it 100 percent,” said Tallent Clark, a The senate meetings held on Monday responsibilities are subject to disciplin- Food like congris, egg rolls and baked senior majoring in hospitality. “My life story is afternoons have been attended by only ary action, Neistein said. Consequences chicken brought FIU students from different fairly similar because I went through the same four or five out of 13 senators for this may include probation or being referred parts of the world together to enjoy a full day thing, having an African American father and a year – less than the six required for to a committee, chaired by Chief Justice of diversity. white mother.” quorum, according to Kenasha Paul, Jessica Jacques, that will litigate the nec- Diversity Day, a whole day of events show- After the play, the activities shifted to the vice president of SGC-BBC. essary course of action. casing the different cultures at the University, WUC ballrooms for lunch and other events. “Even though it would be more pro- took place Oct. 21 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in “The theme of the luncheon was also a part the Wolfe University Center at Biscayne Bay of Diversity Day,” Cunningham said. “There Campus. was a variety of meals, including those of Asian, Resignation opens up “Diversity Day draws Italian, Cuban more interaction from the and American students, and brings stu- Diversity Day is about cultures.” dents, faculty and staff Baked chicken, SOC-BBC secretary spot together to educate and informing students pork, shrimp pas- celebrate diversity,” said ta, different styles Craig Cunningham, di- about diff erent voting of rice, meatballs, DAINELYS MARTINEZ All SOC positions are elected, and terms rector of Campus Life, chips and dip, and last for one year. Elections are held at the issues and the diversity Staff Writer who helped plan the ice cream, brown- last SOC meeting of the Spring semester. event. FIU has to off er. ies and chocolate The salary is $600 per semester. The Student Organization Council- Started nine years ago chip cookies are The secretary will need to keep a mini- Debbie Brown, Elections Commissioner Biscayne Bay Campus announced by Raul Moncarz, former just a few examples mum of fi ve offi ce hours per week. SGC-BBC an open position for secretary on its vice provost of BBC, and of the food that was The special secretary election will take Executive Board after Mnar Muhareb, with an estimated $5000 served. place Oct. 29 at 2:30 p.m. in WUC 157 the previous secretary, resigned for per- in costs, Diversity Day After lunch, four during the SOC meeting being held at that sonal reasons. is hosted annually by the Student Government students participated in a public speaking con- time. The main responsibilities of the sec- Association, according to Cunningham. It in- test called “My Perception of My Reception,” in After the candidates have a chance to retary are to record the minutes of all cluded a free breakfast, a keynote speaker, free which they shared their views and experiences speak to those in attendance, a vote will SOC meetings, and establish and main- lunch, a discussion about Amendment 2, a pub- at the University as part of diverse cultures. take place. All 40 active SOC-BBC clubs tain all SOC fi les, according to Jessica lic speaking contest and a “diversity circle.” The contestants, Anne Braseby, Barbara have one vote each. Senorin, vice president of SOC-BBC. “Diversity Day is about informing students Quijano, Andrea Jackson and Kertus Toussaint, “Some of the benefi ts of working in the “I loved working with SOC. It was about different voting issues and the diversity each presented three to four-minute speeches on Executive Board are networking, leader- a lot of fun, great teamwork and very FIU has to offer,” said Debbie Brown, elections how they have been received at FIU. Braseby ship experience and teamwork skills,” productive,” Muhareb said. commissioner for SGC-BBC. won fi rst place. Senorin said. Any currently enrolled FIU student The opening continental breakfast included “Though there was one winner, all four con- In addition, all Executive Board mem- with at least a 2.0 GPA is eligible for cheeses, salami, grapes, crackers, coffee and testants got a gift card to Barnes & Noble,” said bers help each other out with their respec- the position, but candidates must take at lemonade. There were also table displays high- Dr. Diann Newman, chairperson, director of tive duties, according to Didier. least half of their classes at BBC. lighting different clubs and their objectives on academic advising in the School of Hospitality The SOC-BBC Executive Board con- Prior experience in an execu- campus, which were followed by an onstage Management and a member of the Diversity sists of the president, vice president, sec- tive board position is a plus, accord- presentation, “Incognito,” performed in the Day Committee retary, treasurer, marketing director and ing to Didier Georges, president of WUC Ann Wolfe Theater by Michael Fosberg, A 20-minute movie about diversity discuss- events coordinator. It is the governing body SOC-BBC. a Chicago actor and playwright. ing workplace stereotypes about different ethnic for all student organizations at BBC. The deadline to apply is Oct. 27 at 5 Fosberg’s “Incognito” takes his audience groups was also shown. The diversity circle The SOC serves these organizations p.m. The application is available online on a journey of his life. In a one-hour, autobi- was the last event of the day. This was a game in through funding and coordinating activi- at www.wuc.fi u.edu or at the SOC offi ce ographical, storytelling presentation, Fosberg which participants talked about stereotypes that ties to promote the academic, social and in room 141 of the Wolfe University tells his story of growing up believing he was their cultures face, and whether or not they fall athletic interests of FIU students at BBC, Center. white, then discovering early in his thirties he is into that stereotypes as individuals. according to their Web site. Contact Us Eric Feldman Opinion Editor opinion@fi usm.com OPINION The Beacon – 4 www.fi usm.com October 24, 2008 A ‘TAXING’ ISSUE Provision could shift community college costs to invididuals

LEE DAMESSOUS supports Amendment Eight. sales tax because it affects citizens Contributing Writer One can surely recognize the of all socio-economic backgrounds underfunding and diffi culty com- though they may not benefi t from Voters heading to the ballot box munity colleges often face in order it,” said Dalourny Demorin, a fresh- Amendments Made Easy are hyped up for their presidential to offer higher education to stu- man studying political science. candidate. A few of these voters dents. Many community colleges Keep in mind the amendment it- know which state senators, repre- in this state do support this initia- self does not raise taxes, but simply sentatives, and judges are up for tive strongly, but the cons of this authorizes counties to do so with To see all the amende- ognized. Gay marriage is al- election, but it’s just as important amendment merit examination. public support. According to a doc- ments explained, visit fi usm. ready prohibited under state to know that there are amendments Amendment Eight might open ument MDC sent to The Beacon, com/opinion. statute, but this amendment to the Florida constitution on the the door for a decrease in state fund- Amendment Eight “generates no would make it more diffi cult to ballot. ing for community colleges over revenues and costs voters not one Amendment 1: A somewhat overturn the law. The results of these amendments time, since a portion of the burden cent. It simply provides a process purely ceremonial amendment are such that can affect us all on a lo- will be shifted to the individual for community colleges to obtain that would retract WWII-era Amendment 3: Would dis- cal level, and they are important to counties that house these colleges. local support via a future referen- language from the Constitution allow certain home improve- note and understand. Among these While it is certainly not a given dum. Amendment Eight is not a that authorizes the state to pre- ments from being assessed as amendments, No. 8 is of special in- that this would happen, it would be tax.” vent Asians from owning prop- property value for tax purpos- terest to the college community. a shame to eventually see the state But it seems to me that though erty. This amendment would es, including changes which Amendment Eight, as stated on attempt to cut corners by decreas- it is not a tax, Amendment Eight not actually have any affect increase resistance to wind the ballot, “requires that the legis- ing state funding for community does provide counties the ability to on Florida law, since no legis- damage and the installation of lature authorize counties to levy a colleges because they know this levy a sales tax to benefi t commu- lation was ever enacted under renewable energy source de- local option sales tax to supplement amendment is keeping them funded nity colleges. This would be subject the original amendment. vices. It essentially amounts community college funding.” at local levels. to voter approval, but is important to a tax break for those who in- I must admit the amendment Disparity would increase be- to think through carefully despite Amendment 2: Will change stall “green” improvements to looks quite positive; it would al- tween community colleges in more opportunities to deny any such the language in Florida’s con- their home. low local counties to help fund affl uent areas versus less affl uent tax proposals in the future. To the stitution to defi ne marriage as their community colleges by pro- ones, due to the ability of more af- 900,000 students who attend our the legal union between one - Information researched viding extra dollars to the state’s fl uent areas to raise more funds. state community colleges, I only man and one woman as hus- and compiled by 28 community colleges, including Unfortunately, sales taxes tend to desire the greatest amount of prog- band and wife, with no other Lee Damessous and Miami-Dade College and Broward impose a greater burden on lower- ress for the educational system so legal union being valid or rec- Eric Feldman College, both of which are still le- income families. men and women can attain post- gally considered community col- It is already hard enough for secondary educations. leges, despite the dropping of the many families in Miami-Dade It is estimated that earning an However, even more important is would not be the fi rst state to make or “C-word” from their names after County to survive, and the passing Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree that support be gained in a way that adopt this constitutional measure. offering 4-year degrees. of Amendment Eight would allow a is worth $400,000 and $900,000 does not burden society any more As students, we must stay in- According to the League future increase in the sales tax which respectively in lifetime earnings be- than what is necessary. The MDC formed and remember that change of Women Voters Web site, would make it that much more diffi - yond a high school diploma. This document mentions that “the largest begins at the local level. Though the “Community colleges serve as a cult. Many of the people benefi ting earning potential and the subse- community college systems in Texas, presidential election is very impor- gateway to the university system from the community colleges might quent ability to attain a better stan- California, New York, Illinois, North tant there are things on the ballot that and to greater employment oppor- also be the ones most affected by dard of living are desired for all, and Carolina and others receive some will have just as great an effect on our tunities; this amendment could in- having a higher sales tax. support must be given to the institu- form of municipal or county sup- everyday lives. crease their funding.” The league “I am avidly against raising the tions which make this possible. port in addition to state funding.” We

THE SOAPBOX: An Op-Ed Column With over 180 groups available, on-campus involvement not as diffi cult as you think

JEAN ROSEME I would not be who I am today had I Everyone has a different set of know what’s going on has been tially be as valuable as all your formal Special to the Beacon not gotten involved. circumstances that determines how challenging. education put together. Because of my involvement I am involved they become, but it really SGA has hosted forums for stu- It’s all about balance. When I fi rst enrolled at FIU, the in a position, as speaker of the SGA is not as hard as some would make dents to express their concerns, where Being involved will give you only thing on my mind was classes. senate, where I can help my fellow it seem. You don’t have to be as in- the attendance doesn’t correlate with those experiences that will help you The notion that I would be the students in many ways. volved as myself to still be involved. the number of issues. And even for the rest of your life. Plus, your one choosing my classes and However, it has become The trick is to do what you love. though attendance hasn’t been what own unique experiences and insights exactly what time they would clear to me that while I I developed a fl air for public ser- SGA has expected, we do have faith could help other students you are in- be was different. am very involved, the vice, which is why I’m in SGA and that the last forum of the semester will volved with. Formal education is im- While trying to fi gure out vast majority of students a Resident Assistant. Addressing the be successful, which will be held in portant, but there are many things that the perfect 18-credit schedule, on campus are not. latter reason of student apathy; it’s the Graham Center Pit Nov. 13. you will only learn through mistakes I had to attend freshman ori- I’ve heard many rea- just not true. At FIU there are over But the forum’s attendance isn’t or through involvement. entation, something I would ROSEME sons why students are not 180 student groups just in the Council the real issue. It’s getting students in- There is no real reason to pay to have rather skipped; I wanted involved. A lot of people of Student Organizations. They range volved. For the most part, I’ve made attend FIU and not take advantage of to dive right into my classes. say it’s because FIU is a commuter from social clubs, to honor societ- it is clear that there are things to be what it has to offer. Being involved is Thankfully, I did not skip out school and that students have to rush ies, and graduate groups. That’s just involved with on campus. Simply, the benefi cial for so many reasons. I will on the ceremony. Alex Prado and off to work right after classes. Another in CSO. The Student Programming reason to get involved is the perks of always be grateful that my mind was Christine Denton, the President and reason I’ve heard whispered around Council, Athletics, Panther Rage, doing so, with the primary perk being changed right when I started at FIU. Vice President of SGA at the time, the halls is that FIU doesn’t offer any- Campus Life and a host of other able to make connections. My hope is that I have now given you gave a speech that drastically changed thing worth getting involved in. groups on campus are always offer- I have met a lot of interesting peo- something to think if you are not in- my mind set. This speech inspired me To some extent the former reason ing students something. ple in my circles, and those relation- volved or considering being involved to join SGA and generally get in- is valid. It’s hard to balance an aver- Perhaps the real reason behind ships will better me at some point in do at FIU. volved in student life on campus. age class schedule of 12 to 15 credits student apathy is that no one knows the future. Being involved adds an- Before long I was heavily involved and 20 or more hours of work a week, how much is being offered to them. other dimension to your college expe- Jean Roseme is the Senate with SGA and other clubs on campus. not to mention one’s personal life. At times the tasks of letting students rience. This dimension could poten- Speaker for SGC-UP. Contact Us Jonathan Davila Life! Editor life@fi usm.com LIFE! The Beacon – 5 www.fi usm.com October 24, 2008

REVIEWS (YOU CAN USE)

MOVIE W. A FILM MISUNDERESTIMATED Nation’s most infl uential father-son duo make it to big screen

STEVE MESA father-son relationship between Bush and his 1995. tical elements such as the older Bush taking a Staff Writer “poppy.” While “JFK” focuses more on the assassi- swing at his oldest son in the Oval Offi ce and Brolin and Cromwell’s portrayals of the two nation of President John F. Kennedy, “Nixon” our current president catching a home run ball The subject for Academy Award-winning Bushes are tremendous, especially when the was basically the biographical story of Richard in Yankee Stadium. director Oliver Stone’s new movie, “W.”, is two actors share a scene together. Early on in the 0Nixon from his days as a little boy to his dis- Brilliant performances from Josh Brolin and none other than the 43rd President of the United movie, Bush Sr. is disappointed with his son be- graceful resignation. James Cromwell, outstanding ensemble and States, George W. Bush. cause he quits jobs his father sets him up with. There are two storylines covered in the fi lm. great direction from Oliver Stone make “W.” Coming off excellent roles in movies such as George H.W. Bush does not have faith in One storyline focuses on Bush’s partying days, one of the best movies of 2008. “American Gangster,” “Planet Terror” and the his eldest son’s future ambitions. This causes his sobriety and decisions that will lead up to Oscar-winning “No Country for Old Men,” Josh a chain reaction of events in which George W. having a career as a politician. Brolin is truly amazing as the current president. Bush begins to do everything in his power to The other is the events that lead up to the When Brolin portrays W. in his fraternity prove to his dad that he is not worthless, whether Iraq War. I have to say that Stone loves extreme days, Brolin barely resembles the Bush we it is running for governor of Texas or owning a close-ups, because “W.,” much like “Nixon,” know today . Later on, as Bush gets older, we major league baseball team. has a certain amount of see Brolin adapt to Bush’s speech patterns and The cast of “W.” is outstanding. those shots in both mannerisms and become more like him. Playing the vice president that oozes with fi lms. Aside from Brolin’s performance, James charm and evil is Oscar-winner Richard One clear exam- Cromwell gives a great performance as George Dreyfuss. ple of this in “W.” is H.W. Bush. Jeffery Wright plays Colin Powell as a man when Bush junior is In “W.” he commands the screen with his asking for a legitimate reason for going to war jogging in the woods presence in every scene. Cromwell’s interpreta- with Iraq. and the camera is tion of Bush Sr. does not come across as a paro- British actor Toby Jones plays the man who mainly focused on dy of the former president like former “Saturday tells W. what to say, Karl Rove. his face before he has Night Live” alumnus Dana Carvey’s impression Finally, we have Elizabeth Banks playing a breakdown. of the elder Bush. Laura Bush, the loving and loyal wife of George There are also a While the movie mainly focuses on the ups W. Bush. couple of instances and downs of President Bush’s life, the real “W.” is Oliver Stone’s third presidential-era in which Stone heart of the movie comes from the turbulent fi lm, following “JFK” in 1991 and “Nixon” in plays with fantas-

CD Ryan Adams - Cardinology WWEEKENDEEKEND CCALENDARALENDAR FFRIDAYRIDAY • OCTOBEROCTOBER 2424 SSATURDAYATURDAY • OOCTOBERCTOBER 2255 SSUNDAYUNDAY • OCTOBEROCTOBER 2266

WHAT: Frost Museum Film Screening WHAT: FIU C.A.R.E.S. presents: Free WHAT: Janelle’s Wishing “the Rising Tide” LSAT, GRE, & GMAT exams Well Foundation Kickball WHERE: GL 100 WHERE: GC 1200 Tournament Latest album WHEN: 8 p.m. WHEN: 10 a.m. WHERE: Chapman Field, 13610 HOW MUCH: FREE HOW MUCH: FREE Old Cutler Road WHEN: 8 a.m. WHAT: Lambda Chi Alpha WHAT: The Cheetah Girls HOW MUCH: $ 20 amounts to “Watermelon Bust - North Amer WHERE: American Airlines Arena 601 Food Drive” Biscayne Blvd. WHAT: Harvest Day WHERE: FIU GC Ballrooms WHEN: 8 p.m. WHERE: Fairchild Tropical WHEN: 11 a.m. HOW MUCH: Varies Botanic Garden 10901 Old HOW MUCH: FREE Cutler Rd Pinecrest, FL nothing WHAT: Peter Frampton WHEN: 9:30 a.m. WHAT: Panhellenic Council “Self- WHERE: Kravis Center HOW MUCH: $ 15 Defense Class” 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm CHRIS TOWERS WHERE: GC Pit Beach, F l WHAT: Miami Dolphins vs Asst. Life! Editor WHEN: Noon WHEN: 7 p.m. Buffalo Bills HOW MUCH: FREE HOW MUCH: $ 55 WHERE: Dolphin Stadium 2267 Dan Marino Blvd Miami Before this review begins in earnest, I am WHAT: Yoga Club Meditations WHAT: The Faint Gardens, FL forced by critical law to mention that Ryan WHERE: GC 241 WHERE: Culture Room, Ft Lauderdale, WHEN: 1 p.m. Adams has a history of drug and alcohol abuse WHEN: 8 p.m. FL HOW MUCH: $ 40 HOW MUCH: FREE WHEN: 7 p.m. and once released three albums in a single cal- HOW MUCH: $25 WHAT: Oktoberfest endar year. WHAT: ENGAGE Workshop “Dollars WHERE: Bayfront Park 301 N I have to mention this because, apparently, and Sense” WHAT: The Australian Pink Floyd Show Biscayne Blvd Miami, FL WHERE: GC 314 WHERE: The Fillmore Miami Beach at WHEN: 7 p.m. this gives him the credibility necessary to re- WHEN: 12:30 p.m. Jackie Gleason Theater Miami Beach, HOW MUCH: $ 15 lease country rock music in the current musical HOW MUCH: FREE FL climate and still be taken seriously by critics. WHEN: 7 p.m. WHAT: Festival Miami WHAT: Women’s Empowerment HOW MUCH: $ 45 WHERE: Adrienne Arsht Center The drugs and alcohol bit is a staple of the Week “ Celebration of fenemism” for the Performing Arts of indie/country rock scene at this point, something WHERE: GC pit WHAT: Halloween Spooktacular Miami-Dade County 1300 you can’t leave home without, and the three al- WHEN: Noon WHERE: Jungle Island Biscayne Blvd Miami, FL bums in one year thing harks back to the days HOW MUCH: FREE 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail Miami, FL WHEN: 8 p.m. WHEN: Noon HOW MUCH: Varies before artists cared about stuff like releasing WHAT: SPC Presents: “Sex and the HOW MUCH: $25 consistently good albums. City” movie night WHAT: Scarefest WHERE: GC 140 WHERE: CocoWalk 3015 Grand If it sounds like I’m hating on Ryan a bit WHAT: In the Park with Art Ave Coconut Grove, FL WHEN: 7 p.m. WHERE: Coral Reef Park 7955 SW 152 too hard, I’m really not. It’s more a criticism HOW MUCH: FREE WHEN: 8 p.m. St Perrine, FL HOW MUCH: $ 20 of the critical community’s reaction to him WHEN: 10 a.m than anything. For the most part, he makes HOW MUCH: FREE entirely competent country rock music that Compiled by: Rosalyn Delgado

ADAMS, page 6 www.fi usm.com LIFE! The Beacon – October 24, 2008 6

CD T.I. - Paper Trail Maintaining the momentum with sixth studio album

JONATHAN RAMOS and the swag is evident with the playful during recent run-ins with the law, uses the some of the best and most popular emcees Asst. Sports Director chuckling over the ad libs and an array of song as an outlet to express his emotions. in the game on a ridiculous collaboration. references to his self proclaimed untouch- The album gets lighter on its next three Kanye West, Jay-Z and Lil Wayne jump The meaning of the word swagger, able swagger. joints as it features radio-friendly sounds into the booth and deliver good verses, as written in the dictionary, is as fol- T.I backs it up with his characteristicly including bubble gum bumper “Whatever only to see T.I finish the track by slay- lows: To conduct oneself in an arrogant near flawless flow and an impressive vo- you Like,” which made it to the top of the ing the West beat, arguably better than his or superciliously pompous manner; espe- cabulary that is rarely seen in southern hip- charts. counterparts. The track is sure to make a cially to walk with an air of overbearing hop artists. As a result of writing down his T.I takes the time to take verbal jabs at major impact on the airwaves, as it is also self-confidence. lyrics as opposed to memorizing and free- opponents on the eleventh song, “What up, listed as part of Jay-Z’s next album, The These days it is easy to associate that styling them on past albums, T.I’s delivery What’s haapnin’.” The man born Clifford Blueprint 3. definition with T.I. goes to a level very few artists can reach. Joseph Harris Jr. can certainly handle his Coincidentally, though it was T.I’s first And an especially detailed description Apparently, the controversial star felt beef over tracks and has proves again that time on a song with the hip-hop legend, it of the word can be heard on the Atlanta the need to continue to stress how good he he is capable of dismantling rivals on the seems not too long ago that star producer native’s new album, Paper Trail. really is on “I’m Illy.” After the impressive mic. Pharell deemed the Atlanta artist “The Jay- T.I delivers what is arguably the best, second offering, T.I gets more personal, The track is not directly aimed at fellow Z of the South.” overall body of work in his six album dis- something he does often on the album. The Atlanta counterpart Shawty Lo, but com- With Paper Trail, T.I is leaving a trail cography and opens it with 56 hard bars in third track, “Ready for Whatever,” finds ments he made earlier in the year suggest of his own, not only in the southern music the introduction. With a backing from DJ the 28-year-old describing the obstacles he it is. world, but the whole industry. And a wor- Toomp on the boards, T.I descriptively em- has had to overcome in the past and in re- The absolute highlight of the album thy swag as well. phasizes that he is back, as good as ever, cent times. T.I,, who faced turbulent times is, “Swagger Like Us,” in which T.I hosts Cardinals lift Adams’ latest effort, Cardinology

ADAMS, page 5 with sighing slide guitars and well placed exclaims “And I’m waiting in a sinking seeing the light of day, bringing his albums backing vocals. ship!” It is truly the album’s best moment. down (I’m looking at you, “Majick”). sounds authentic enough to cover up for And on the occasions that Ryan does Unfortunately, the album’s great moments Sure, quality is totally subjective, but a lack of original melodies or moods. drop a legitimately great song (“Let Us are too few and far apart for this to qualify there can’t be many people out there who And this is no different on his newest album, Down Easy,” “Go Easy,” “Sink Ships”) as anything other than another scattershot would disagree with the assertion that Cardinology. they are more than ready to take it to the effort. Adams needs a good editor. It might be fair to assume that given the next level. On “Sink Ships,” as Adams Adams is a guy who obviously has a ton When he inevitably releases another al- title, his backing band The Cardinals might ratchets up the intensity and cries “The war of talent, and when he does write a great bum in March or April of ‘09, feel free to play a bigger part on this album, and in some is over, the war is over,” the band match- song, they are as good as anyone’s. But in snag the best songs from that one and this ways they do. They do an admirable job of es him note for note building on his in- his quest to release as much music as pos- one and make yourself a killer “Best of” prettying up some substandard melodies tensity before crashing back down as he sible, some stuff that is just terrible ends up album.

EASY diversions

HARD

For Sudoku answers, go to FIUSM.com/ sudoku. If you are interested in having a comic in our paper, send an e-mail to Life@Fiusm. com. www.fi usm.com SPORTS The Beacon – October 24, 2008 7 Martinez credits Second breath of waiver pickups have parents for faith upside; Bryant makes leap into elite

handcuff (process of matching up a of the style of play the Bucs use. ear after year, you look at the ros- instilled in him Y starting running back and his backup), They will not blow anyone out and ter of the team that won your fantasy but when he got hurt own- probably won’t score more than two football league and you start MARTINEZ, page 8 The linebacker needed ers should have jumped on or three times in a game. But odds are beating yourself up. COMMENTARY his faith at the awkward Mewelde Moore. If you missed Bryant will catch a lot of balls, he is You see how different the for who I am today.” moment during the contest. out on the run on backup run- quickly becoming one of Jeff Garcia’s team that fi nished the season The Martinez fam- “I mean, you forget ning backs, your team probably favorite targets, and might fi nd his way was from the one that started ily originally hails from about football aspects and suffered big time. into the end zone. it, and you beat yourself up be- Teaneck, New Jersey, so put them out the window. The fi nal third of the fantasy Donnie Avery- Wide Receiver, St cause you passed over some of religion was one of the only You pray for him as a per- football season brings a second Luis Rams- The Rams were killed when the fantasy Cinderella stories things he could bring with son; that he will get better wave of waiver wire heroes, they made Avery the fi rst receiver taken that propelled the champion JONATHAN him. because the last thing we maybe not as good or prolifi c in this year’s draft. into a year of pride and showing ALPERT “My parents are from do against opponents is as the fi rst wave, but if inju- The offense has become prolifi c since off, while driving you to a year Trinidad, they came here wish them injury,” he said. ries have hindered your team new head coach Jim Haslett took over of sulking and second guess- in the mid-80s and settled “We look to compete [but] or bye weeks limiting your options, here and the light bulb has come on for Avery. ing. As fantasy football general manag- into the Queens, New York we always pray for the oth- are a few players to watch with a lot of He might have the most upside out of ers, we are not much different from NFL area,” he said. “Religion er team not to get injured. upside. any player still out there, and if you can general managers. from there parents also “I prayed to God that Pierre Thomas/Aaron Stecker- afford it, make room for Avery, especial- Except Joe Schmoe GM goes back played a major role in their everything was stable. Running Backs, New Orleans Saints- ly if you play in a keeper league. to his cubicle after a terrible season and lives and they brought it on Individually that night, me With Reggie Bush injured for up to four Ryan Torian- Running Back, Denver recovers next year, as opposed to NFL to me.” and my girl friend said a weeks, the Saints will do their best to Broncos- Its hard to rely on a Denver general managers who’s livelihood de- Aside from his contri- prayer just to keep head make up for his absence with an effi cient Bronco’s running back, especially if he pends on every decision made. In order bution to the area, Martinez over water and make sure ground game. Deuce McAllister’s knees hasn’t played a down this year yet. to win your league, you sometimes have helps his local church he was alright. Luckily, X- can’t take the beating they used to, and However, Selvin Young, Andre Hall, to think like a real general manager: draft as well, La Viña on Bird rays came out negative.” even though he is a good start keep an and Michael Pittman have been ineffec- solid players, take calculated risks, de- Road. Whether Martinez is at eye on Thomas and Stecker. tive and it’s starting to hurt Jay Cutler cide whether you’re holding onto a vet- Besides regularly at- church mentoring young Thomas could get more goal line and the passing game. eran for too long and scour the waiver tending, he reached out to people, or if he is on the looks, as he did earlier in the season Head Coach Mike Shanahan says wire to fi nd the next superstar, your dia- young adults through the fi eld getting tackles for when McAllister was hurt, and Stecker Torian reminds him of Terrell Davis, mond in the ruff. Kids Excel program. the Golden Panthers, noth- could fi t right in as a poor mans Reggie only stronger and faster, and could fea- Who will be your waiver wire hero? As part of it, Martinez ing really changes for Bush because he is a versatile speedy ture Torian to throw off some teams on Running backs never stay healthy, and helped children though him. There is always one scat back who happens to be an above their way to making a playoff run. Teams often are the most consistent point scor- the summer program and constant. average receiver as well. have no fi lm on Torian, and he could be ers in fantasy football. helped manage a sports “When I wake up [and] Antonio Bryant- Wide Receiver, a hot commodity come the next few If you drafted Brian Westbrook, the league for them. until I go to bed, I know Tampa Bay Buccaneers- With Joey weeks. smart thing to have done in the begin- that if you keep faith it does Galloway hurt, Bryant has solidifi ed Good luck fi nding your waiver wire MORE THAN FOOTBALL ning of the year is take an insurance pol- give you hope. Hope just to himself as the number one pass catcher, hero. icy out on Westbrook, and reserve a spot During a Sept. 20 game believe that every day, even even with Galloway coming back this for Correl Buckhalter. Same for Joseph against the University of if it’s not a good day, a pos- week. If you have any questions of comments, Addai owners, who should also own South Florida, a Bulls play- itive outcome could come He is a top 25 receiver and available email Jonathan at Jonathan.Alpert@fi - Dominic Rhodes. er was hurt on the fi eld in out of it,” Martinez said. in most leagues. Snatch him up and start usm.com and listen to Panther Sports Talk For Willie Parker owners, rookie what appeared to be a seri- “That’s how you have to him if you need the help. However, he is Live Tuesdays and Thursdays noon-1pm on Rashard Mendenhall was the obvious Radiate FM, streaming live on fi usm.com. ous injury. carry every day.” a higher risk than most receivers because Golden Panthers sweep again

JONATHAN ALPERT run to take the set 25-15. Asst. Sports Director In the second set, FIU pulled away after the score The volleyball team was tied at 7 a piece. FIU took notched its 11th sweep of the set 25-16. the season, taking care of The third set provided a FAU (25-15, 25-16, 26-24). scare for the Golden Panthers. Freshman Andrea Lakovic Down 5-2, they fought back V led the Golden Panthers with to tie the set at 7. FIU started ICTORIA a season high 16 kills to help to pull away, taking an 18-13 L propel FIU to victory. lead, but FAU responded with YNCH She did not commit an er- a 9-3 run of their own to even /T HE B

ror and hit respectable .696. the set at 22. EACON Outside Hitter Yarimar Rosa After trading a pair of had 15 kills. Sophomore setter points each the set was tied at Natalia Valentin had 42 assists, 24 until a serving error by FAU HARD HITTING: Andrea La- eight digs and three aces. FIU gave FIU the lead. Fittingly, kovic hits the ball vs. FAU. improved to 18-4 overall, and Lakovic contributed the win- 8-1 in the conference, good for ning kill to give FIU the sweep. FIU will travel to Arkansas the lead in the Sun Belt Eastern The Golden Panthers have for a match with Arkansas- Division. dominated the rivalry recent- Little Rock on Oct. 24 at 8 In the fi rst set, after being ly winning the last 5 matches p.m. and then take on Arkansas tied at 11, the Golden Panthers with FAU, with the last four State on Oct. 25 at 6 p.m. pulled away going on a 14-4 being sweeps. CLASSIFIEDS

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Your Room Is Ready! Furnished room, bath. Short drive from campus, $450 month. Includes utilities and club. INTERNET. Smoke- free. Drug- free. 305-905-5055. abba- [email protected] Contact Us Andrew Julian Sports Director sports@fi usm.com SPORTS The Beacon – 8 www.fi usm.com October 24, 2008 PROGRESS REPORT Middle blocker Sabrina Gonzalez emerges as key player

JONATHAN ALPERT enjoy the game as much as I performing the way we should Asst. Sports Director did. be, and it wouldn’t be a suc- As time went one, I ended cessful practice. Sabrina Gonzalez has con- up straying away from bas- JA: What goes through tributed greatly to the success ketball and focusing more on your mind when FIU is on of the women’s volleyball volleyball. the brink of a defeat, down 2 team this season and will fac- JA: Have you spoken to sets to 1, 2 sets to none, Does tor greatly in the future success any of the basketball players the team legitimately think it of the program. about playing volleyball, and can win the match, are you Fairly new to the game of visa versa? just trying to salvage the set volleyball, Gonzalez arrived at SG: I haven’t convinced and not be embarrassed, FIU without hype or high ex- the basketball players yet. how does this team react to pectations, but has worked her But they are two totally dif- being down. way into the rotation of play- ferent sports. Some girls can SG: We obviously know ers head coach Danijela Tomic jump, but can’t shoot, dribble, we need to win the next set, relies on. or be aggressive. but it all has to do with being “Sabrina is a kid who only JA: Do the upperclass- focused. played for three years before men have their fun with the We play set-by-set, match- coming to us, and she is one of freshman; having you carry by-match, and game-by-game. two freshman playing crucial their things, sing songs, etc? We don’t look ahead, to the positions for us,” said Tomic. SG: Nothing that entertain- next point, set, or match. “Sabrina is our biggest [pleas- ing, just boring equipment du- JA: The hardest thing ant] surprise. She has learned ties, snagging balls, grabbing about being a student athlete so much in the preseason, she towels, those kinds of simple is what? is very coachable, has great duties. SG: Managing time. athletic abilities, there are a JA: Being new to the As a freshman, I’m still lot of good things ahead for game, as well as a freshman, getting used to the making Sabrina.” you have to make the most time for family, school, and The freshmen has been ef- of your time in the game. Do volleyball. Right now, I’m re- fi cient on offense, struggling you enjoy learning from the ally focusing on school and at times, as freshman always sidelines as much as learning volleyball, everything else is do, but averages a modest 1.45 on the fl y in the game? secondary. kills a set, good for 3rd on the SG: I don’t have much ex- JA: Being a local (Miami team. perience playing this game, Sunset High School), is it cool Gonzalez’s role on defense so every moment I get to step playing in front of friends has expanded as the season away and observe and learn and family all the time? has progressed, and she leads from bench, it helps a lot. SG: Its fun for them to see the team in blocks with 67 on I’m in a situation now me play, I always tell them to the season and .91 per set. She where I have to learn and prog- come, they usually do. It’s dif- has amassed more than twice ress as I play, so every chance ferent for them because it’s a the blocks of anyone else on I get to take a step back, I en- different atmosphere than high the team. joy it. school and club. Earlier in the season, The JA: Your Head Coach, JA: What has to happen Beacon sat down with the Danijela Tomic, is usually to propel FIU women’s vol- freshman sensation. calm on the sideline, sitting leyball to a Sunbelt title? JA: How did the late start down. In practice has she SG: We have to take each in Volleyball come about? ever done anything memo- team seriously, and focus. SG: I started playing vol- rable to motivate the team? We have to win the games leyball my sophomore year in SG: When we aren’t hav- we’re supposed to win, and high school, I was actually a ing a great practice, not focus- once we’re approached by a basketball player, and I only ing like we should be, she gets more challenging opponent, started playing volleyball to on us and yells a bit. perform the best we possibly PHOTO COURTESY SAM LEWIS help with my vert and jumping When she yells it motivates can. BIG SUPRISE: First year volleyball player Sabrina Gonzalez has emerged as one of the ability; I didn’t realize I would us because we know were not most important players for the Golden Panthers. Gonzalez averages 1.45 kills per set. Linebacker’s impact felt off the fi eld

JONATHAN RAMOS When asked about how several members of the com- only as a student athlete but as Asst. Sports Director many he has missed in his time munity have seen it in person a person,” he said. “Just to let at FIU he didn’t have to think. and know what type of person them know motives of respect. Linebacker Ryan Martinez “I cannot remember the last he is.” Aspects of life. Its amazing be- time I missed a [service] in my cause they look up to you no isn’t sure if he will be play- SERVING ing football on Sundays, but if tenure here [FIU],” he said. matter what.” he were to one day play in the “Maybe it’s been a few but I Aside from football train- Martinez gives them reason NFL, it might interfere with try to attend the most I can.” ing, Martinez has found a to. his routine. Martinez has maintained a niche right across the street The 6-foot defender credits The senior is often busy strong faith since he arrived at from FIU during the offseason. his upbringing as the reason on Sunday mornings, and it’s FIU from Nassau Community With the help of a few team- his faith has remained strong. not likely to change; in fact, College, and has used it as a mates, Martinez contributed to “Its from my parents, my he can scarcely remember the platform to extend his reach various local programs. faith is number one, then last time he missed a church beyond the football fi eld for “We spoke to some kids at my religion, then my family, service. FIU. the Doral camp optimist pro- school, and football,” he said. “Only probably one,” he “It’s not just something gram, where me, Paul McCall, “They all play a major role in said as he looked up trying to unseen, it’s something that is Scotty Bryant, and a few of my life but religion is very big FERNANDO GARCIA/THE BEACON recall the instance. “And that spoken through his actions,” us talked to kids and let them to me because it sets a standard CELEBRATION: Senior linebacker Ryan Martinez was because of scheduling coach Mario Cristobal said. know how college can help waves his arms after a play vs. USF on Sept. 20. complications with weather.” “The team looks up to it and and how to better yourself not MARTINEZ, page 7