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6-25-2014 The Beacon, June 25, 2014 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. 26, Issue 1 fiusm.com Wednesday, June 25, 2014 TOUGH LUCK Marty’s Cube leaves University after 16 years

Diego Saldana-Rojas/The Beacon

Marty’s Cube has stood outside Duxieme Maison since 1998. On May 22, 2014, it was loaded onto a flatbed and taken away for good.

REBECA PICCARDO “Universities make budgetary decisions,” said Hinds, who was Meyer could not be reached for further comment by press time. News Director glad that the University gave her the opportunity to take back the The cube was first brought to the University in 1998. Since sculpture to renovate it and bring it back to top-notch conditions. then, it had become a part of the University spirit, with the popular Students may have to find another ritual to help them pass their However, once it’s fixed, the cube will not be coming home to student tradition of spinning the cube for good luck before an exam. exams now that the University’s lucky charm has been removed FIU. According to the Student Alumni Association traditions page for good. “We will then decide where to re-donate the work,” said Hinds. online, this tradition was started by a group of chemistry students On May 22, Marty’s Cube, as it was titled by sculptor Tony The cube will be donated to another educational institution in who first spun the cube just for fun while they studied. Rosenthal, was lifted from its spot for the past 16 years, outside Florida– one that will have the funds to maintain the sculpture, she They all received perfect scores on their exam. Deuxieme Maison, and hauled away. added. After testing out the cube’s luck and acing their exam the The University cited safety concerns for removing the cube. Marty’s Cube had been donated to the University a few years following semester, they decided not to spin it again and see what It had been damaged and could have presented a danger to back, under President Emeritus Modesto A. Maidique. would happen. That semester that the students chose not to spin the members of the University community passing by it, according to The SGC-MMC president at the time, Arthur “AJ” Meyer, told cube, they all failed the exam and had to repeat the class. a statement from the University Media Relations office. Student Media back in 2009 that he had written a letter to Margu- Spinning the 15-foot sculpture has since become a part of the These safety concerns prompted the University to return the lies, asking to keep the cube permanently at the University. freshmen orientation tour, midterms week, finals week and the piece back to its original donor, Martin Margulies. “I wanted to secure that we keep Marty’s Cube at this Univer- Student Government Association’s Cram Jam events. The Margulies Collection Curator Katherine Hinds said that, sity, a university without many traditions at all, and so I sent a letter With the cube gone, FIU Meme Generators created a virtual over a period of time, outdoor sculptures tend to have maintenance through President Maidique,” Meyer said. “Mr. Margulies just needs. responded to us and told us that it was ours.” SEE CUBE, PAGE 2 Board of Trustees approves new partnerships ventures REBECA PICCARDO $5 million in funding for this project. The committee also approved a 15-year committee meetings that met on June 3 AND CAMILA FERNANDEZ According to the Board’s agenda, the part- agreement with Shorelight Education in the discussed new projects and recent accom- FIUSM Staff nership’s mission is to study tropical plants and hopes of attracting more international students, plishments, the Health Affairs Task Force develop sustainable solutions to preserve trop- along with their out-of-state tuition. Committee discussed looming changes in Over the course of two weeks, the Board ical plant diversity. By partnering with Shorelight, the Univer- college health care. of Trustees Committees and the full Board FIU students and faculty will have access sity would establish a 12-month undergrad- As federal health reform begins to affect approved several new projects for the to the Kampong garden and four other gardens uate program for international students to help college health plans FIU still offers the cheapest University. located in Hawaii. provide specialized English-language instruc- University health fee in the state and does not During a full board meeting on June 12, The Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of tion along with their academic coursework. require students to buy health insurance. the University’s Board of Trustees approved Science is also partnering with the University According to the Board’s agenda, FIU has All students pay a health fee of $187.60 for the tenure of 29 faculty members, a new PhD to build a joint-use facility at the Biscayne Bay one of the largest criminal justice departments two semesters, but data shows that the Student program in International Crime and Justice, Campus. in the state. Health Services resources are underused, which along with three partnership ventures. This project received a $5 million grant to The approved PhD program in Interna- concerned chair Jose J. Armas. The committee approved a partnership build the facility. tional Crime and Justice has made FIU the first “We’re in an urban environment where with the National Tropical Botanical Garden, The Board’s agenda states that FIU students minority-serving institution to offer a PhD in there are lots of other options for health care a non-profit that offered the University plots will gain hands-on experience with exotic, criminal justice. other than just right on campus,” said Provost of land adjacent to the Kampong garden in large marine animals and birds. Also, class- The program will be available at FIU’s Douglas Wartzok. “And so only about 20 Coconut Grove. room spaces will be provided for four new Modesto Maidique Campus and online. Two separate grant donations give a total of Professional Science Masters. While most of the Board of Trustees SEE BOT, PAGE 2 2 The Beacon – Wednesday, June 25, 2014 NEWS fiusm.com WORLD NEWS FIU to open nutrition store Iraqi insurgents capture more towns; Maliki government in new parking garage downplays rebel successes PATRICK CHALVIRE Gaining a spot in PG6 was more than simply paying a fee or Iraqi rebels seized four critical towns in Asst. Sports Director being the first company to sign their name on the dotted line. The the western province of Anbar overnight company had to apply and give the University reasons as to why Saturday and Sunday, taking control of the Whether it’s Crossfit, gym memberships or your occasional they were fit to be a part of the university. last major border crossing to Syria still in stroll down the street, there seems to be a rise in exercise and “It was a process we had to kinda apply for and submit a government hands and opening a path for the making right choices as to what students put in their bodies. marketing package…pretty much an entire package why we rebels through the Euphrates River valley down to Ramadi, the provincial capital. The Coming in January, EXN Nutrition will open its first Miami deserved to be on of the stores on campus,” said Cobon. four towns in western Iraq fell in close succes- store in the almost-finished Parking Garage 6. The transition to Miami was one that Cobon said was a perfect sion, opening the Syrian border and areas in The Broward-based company plans on opening up in one of fit for the company. Syria controlled by the Islamic State of Iraq the biggest universities in the country. “FIU has done so much “We don’t have any stores in Miami yet so when the oppor- and Syria to areas in western Iraq also held for the city of Miami and it seemed like a great fit to be part of tunity came to not only open a store in Miami but to open it on by the group. After a lightning offensive that a community like that,” said EXN Nutrition Marketing Director campus, we went right for it,” said Cobon. began in the northern city of Mosul, Iraq’s Paul Cobon. “There’s a lot of universities down here [South second-largest city, in which most of central Florida] but FIU was the one that we’ve had in mind.” SEE NUTRITION, PAGE 7 and northern Iraq’s Sunni Muslim-populated areas fell in 10 days, the militants refocused their efforts on western Iraq.

Somali journalist killed in Cube returned to collector, Mogadishu car bombing student tradition ends A 27-year-old Somali journalist was CUBE, PAGE 1 “Alamo” was the first cube of not come on the market place City Department of Parks and killed Saturday by a car bomb in Mogadishu, its kind, finished in 1967, and often,” Hinds said. Recreation. witnesses said. Yusuf Ahmed Abukar, an Marty’s Cube that students can now stands in New York City. As a point of compar- Margulies has also loaned award-winning journalist, was driving through other works to the University, the capital’s Hamarweyne district on his way spin online. “Don’t you fret, and don’t like “Argosy,” the red towering to work, when the bomb went off. “It is a It is difficult to put a value on works very shocking tragedy. His car was damaged you frown, there’s now a virtual sculpture on the roundabout at badly by the explosion and his body blown cube in town,” read the Face- such as these because these monumental the entrance of 107 Avenue and into pieces,” journalist Abdifatah Halane told book post on the FIU meme works do not come on the market place often. 16 Street. dpa. Abukar worked for privately owned radio page along with the hashtags, According to the statement Katherine Hinds station Mustaqbal in Mogadishu as well as “save the cube,” “spin the from Media Relations, the Curator Radio Ergo in Nairobi, Kenya. He was well- cube” and “love the cube.” University is grateful to Margu- Margulies Collection known for his outspokenness about Islamist The real cube sculpture lies for his sculptures and how militant group al-Shabaab and his criticism now sits at the Margulies they enhance the Modesto A. of Somalia’s government. No group has yet Collection at its warehouse in These types of sculptures ison, the Alamo, which has the Maidique Campus. claimed responsibility for the killing. Miami, where it will undergo are so unusual that, according same dimensions as Marty’s any needed maintenance and to Hinds, it is hard to evaluate Cube, was appraised by the Rhys Williams and Diego renovations. their worth. Fine Art Asset Management Saldana-Rojas contributed to “It is difficult to put a value firm at the end of 2013 at $1 this report. Ukraine’s president declares Marty’s Cube is one of five similar sculptures spread on works such as these because million, according to Philip [email protected] one-week cease-fire in restive east throughout the country. The these monumental works do Abramson from the New York Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Friday declared a one-week, unilateral cease- fire to try and end the bloody conflict with pro-Russian insurgents in the country’s east. BOT Committee meetings The truce will last until June 27 in order to allow the “terrorists” to lay down their arms, Poroshenko said in a statement published on the Interior Ministry’s website. “Military approve new plans, projects action will only be carried out in response, are moving towards requiring students to meeting, Stephen Sauls, vice president that is when rebels attack our forces,” said the BOT, PAGE 2 president. have an insurance plan as well as pay a of governmental relations, presented the health fee. recent University victories from the legis- percent of students are using our health If FIU were to make health insurance lative session. care services on campus.” mandatory for students, it would result in Among these, the University secured For a commuter school like FIU, that an immediate 20 percent increase in cost $18 million in incremental performance percentage should be closer to 50 percent, of attendance, Wartzok said. funding, $10 million towards acquiring said Wartzok. For the time being, the University is the fairgrounds and over $20 million in Armas said that one of two things working towards integrating SHS with several other projects and programs. must have gone wrong— either students the Herbert Wertheim College of Medi- Chief Financial Officer Kenneth are not made aware about the services cine’s FIU Health by sharing a common Jessell commended the trustees’ efforts in EDITORIAL BOARD CONTACT INFORMATION they have, or “the services are so poor, electronic medical record system and making sure that all University projects Modesto Maidique Campus: they just don’t want them.” laboratory resources. received funding. Editor in Chief GC 210, Mon-Fri 9:00 AM-4:30 PM Wartzok said that although the Univer- FIU Health is also credentialing “We had pretty good intel that one of Junette Reyes (305) 348-2709 sity does not want to operate with such SHS physicians and nurse practitioners, our very important projects was in jeop- [email protected] Production Manager/ poor use of SHS, any increase in utiliza- according to Wartzok. ardy and many of you made calls,” said Biscayne Bay Campus Copy Chief tion might make the health fee increase. Armas asked to keep SHS on the Jessell. “It really is a group effort.” WUC 124, Mon-Fri 9:00 AM-4:30 PM Cristina Garcia (305) 919-4722 The board also discussed how state agenda for future meetings. News Director [email protected] universities, like the University of Florida, At the External Relations Committee [email protected] ebeca iccardo R P Editor-in-Chief: Entertainment Director (305) 348-1580 Jeffrey Pierre [email protected] SGC-MMC appoints cabinet positions Sports Director Advertising: (305) 348-6994 ADRIAN SUAREZ Rhys Williams advise the president each delivered a brief and special projects Despite the fact [email protected] AVILA in making her deci- speech to the senators, coordinators, require that the majority of the Opinion Director Staff Writer sions and forward the explaining their qual- that two students executive cabinet offi- Diego Saldana-Rojas The Beacon is published on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays during the Fall mission of the Student ifications and ideas work in conjunction cers were confirmed, BBC Managing Director and Spring semesters and once a week On June 2, Government Associ- for their respective to complete the tasks six were absent from Junette Reyes during Summer B. One copy per person. SGA-MMC’s sena- ation throughout the positions. demanded by their the meeting and are Photo Editor Additional copies are 25 cents. The Beacon is not responsible for the content of ads. tors met for the first academic year. Although some position. awaiting confirmation Maria Lorenzino Ad content is the sole responsibility of general meeting of the Along with an positions require the The sena- by the senators. Copy Editor the company or vendor. The Beacon is an semester to confirm expression of enthu- presence of a single tors confirmed all

Giselle Berman editorially independent newspaper partially the newly appointed siasm to assume officer, some, such of the Executive For the full story,

funded by student and services fees that are appropriated by Student Government. executive cabinet their positions, the as deputy chief-of- Cabinet appointees check fiusm.com. officers. They will cabinet appointees staff, and marketing unanimously. Contact Us Diego Saldana-Rojas Opinion Director [email protected] OPINION The Beacon – 3 fiusm.com Wednesday, June 25, 2014 Harsh environment for the growing artist JUNETTE REYES event. This leaves bands and artists who many, many more. Unfortunate turn of Editor-in-Chief open shows to play to nothing but a And this is all coming from someone handful of people at times. who has only just begun to dip their toes events: Marty’s Cube goes Miami as a whole is a self-destructive On another note regarding the crowd, into the water. I’m speaking as an observer city, particularly when its ever-changing I sometimes get the general vibe that who has not only gone out to experi- back to collector music scene is taken into consideration. Miami’s audience rarely goes out to ence the scene, but also as someone who Venues come and go as they please these events to truly enjoy a band or artist has come to know a lot of these artists Any University graduate from the past decade for various reasons. The traditions and for its art, but rather more for the sake through my involvement as co-host of or so probably remembers the tradition of spinning history that come with these venues of going out. We live in a bustling city Local Radiation, a radio program that Marty’s Cube during finals, which was believed to are therefore rarely maintained in this where there’s always something to do, celebrates local music. These are artists assure the spinner of passing all exams, given that city that is constantly on the move so you’ll never be bored – if you’re the that want to make something out of this those who spun the cube actually studied. and constantly obsessed with erasing right age. city and I’m with them because I really In a turn of events, this long-running tradition anything that is no longer youthful. Still, in a city where the arts are feel this city is worth fighting for. is now an empty spot of concrete with only the The venues that do remain usually clearly so important, Miami’s music and It might have the ultimate formula to University to blame for its demise. cater to a specific type of sound and audi- its scene often seem to be cast aside by self-destruct, but Miami’s music scene is The University had the cube on loan since ence, more likely the sound and audience its residents. More often than not, light only just beginning to grow and the city 1998, and received ownership of it about five years that is now considered “hip” or “trendy.” is usually only shed upon the dance needs to realize that. People need to start ago when the Student Government Council at Speaking of the audience, they are the culture within Miami, but Miami is full supporting the individuals that make this Modesto A. Maidique Campus asked the collector, most fickle, unreliable group of people of so much more than a really good dance place all the more bearable. Martin Margulies, to let FIU keep the cube due to you will ever come across. An entire beat. All you have to do is go to the few its popularity among students. culture has been established around what venues out there that hold a place for [email protected] The cube was closed off during spring semester. is popularly known as “miami time,” talented bands like Plastic Pinks, Deaf At the end of May, members of the community meaning everyone is always late to an Poets, Jacuzzi Boys, Sunghosts and saw the cube being lifted onto a flatbed and taken away; no one knew why or for how long. The University cited safety concerns as the reason for removing the cube. Why was the cube all of a sudden a safety concern? Why weren’t Feminism is directly responsible students informed of all this? Was a mysterious disappearance necessary? Wear and tear is natural for any object left outdoors for an extended period of time. The for all men’s rights groups University maintains its buildings, lawns and networks. Like other outdoor structures, they KRISTOPHER SAAD completely counterintuitive to understand and only women ness. Feminist issues and men’s should also maintain their outdoor sculptures, Contributing Writer the actual conversations that can be a part of the discus- rights issues aren’t black and especially the cube, which hold years of student should be taking place because it sion” and “they’re purpose- white. In fact, most of the issues tradition. The recent rise of men’s marginalizes these men’s groups fully taking away focus from are complicated and interrelated For an institution with very little authentic rights activist groups is due which is inherently hypocrit- real issues.” This separation and and it’s why men should not be student traditions, they let this one go a little too to two primary reasons: men ical; it’s ironic that a self-pro- exclusion of men simply furthers excluded from the conversation. easily. responding to some double stan- claimed feminist would act in an inequality in gender-based There are a fair amount We understand that new construction and dards and biases introduced such a manner. It only takes a equality discourses and is coun- of issues concern men nowa- expansion is more useful to the University, its staff in some feminist philosophy; small presence of mind to realize terproductive to the feminist days that should not be ignored, and students, but maintaining current structures and men realizing the need to that by marginalizing and side- philosophies of equality for all, including domestic violence, should be a priority too. increase advocacy and aware- lining men’s rights groups, one regardless of gender. rape and sexual predator stereo- Instead of maintaining the cube, the University ness of issues primarily affecting is working against equality Recent pieces on “rape types. The feminist movement’s did what many children do with things they don’t the male gender – just as femi- rather than for it, and as such, culture” and male-feminist apol- marginalization and disaccred- want anymore or find too bothersome to hold onto nism has done for the female these people are fighting against ogists have harmed the overall itation of men’s rights groups is – threw it away. gender. their own cause. Men must be equality conversation by intro- counterintuitive towards a move- Marty’s Cube was returned to the collector, Unfortunately, the rise of included as much as women in ducing stereotypes against the ment that is supposed to stand for who will renovate the cube and re-donate it to men’s advocacy groups has the conversation for equality. involuntary act of being a man. equality, not one-sided advocacy. another institution in Florida – one that will fit been met with an onslaught of Men’s rights groups do not Many recent pieces have been One of the only ways to truly maintenance into their budget. bashing, shaming and name- seek to discredit or destroy femi- skewed to imply mere guilt by have an equal and unbiased If returning the cube was the only option for calling from feminist groups. nism. In fact, I would argue that association by just being of the conversation on equality is to the University, then steps should have been taken Men’s rights organizations are most members of men’s rights male gender. Some pieces going take gender out of the equation to inform students and help them understand the accused of being anti-equality, groups could more than likely be so far as calling all men invol- either through the dissolution or need for its removal. sexist and misogynist organiza- considered feminists themselves. untary enablers of rape culture. joining of forces between femi- Removing the cube, along with its tradition, is tions that seek to devalue and They simply felt that mainstream I have personally read many nist and men’s rights groups. an unpopular decision, but if communicated prop- discredit the feminist movement feminist discourse was begin- of these pieces such as Zaron They could call themselves the erly, students would have come to understand the in order to maintain the patri- ning lose touch with its core Burnett’s “The Gentleman’s “equalists” and fight for the need for its removal. archy. This couldn’t be further philosophy of a truly egalitarian Guide to Rape Culture.” In this equality of all people, stand However, the cube’s departure was handled from the actual goals of men’s world society. particular piece, this journalist against stereotyping and focus poorly, and for students that may have been gone rights groups. Feminism has in effect argues that all men are guilty on having productive conversa- away over summer, they will come back to find a On both sides, knee-jerk reac- censored some men’s rights of certain grievances that are tions on issues that are not gender void that can’t be filled. tionaries and radicals have taken discussions through its liberal supportive of rape culture. Again, exclusive. Obviously this would Come finals, a tradition now lost will leave combative stances that have use of misogyny and sexist presuming that all men are guilty be an extremely difficult thing incoming freshman clueless about what everyone devolved most conversations shaming of anyone who has of supporting rape culture when to actually do, but we must take else is talking about when they start to miss the between men’s rights and femi- anything to say that is against or that is not at all the case. a more proactive approach to cube. nist groups into simple-minded, questioning of feminist ideolo- Feminism has refused to mediating and having productive Taking it away out of the blue only left students irrational and illogical debates gies or stances. acknowledge the legitimacy of conversations between different and faculty wondering about what was going on. diluting into name-calling that Feminism has also shunned men’s’ rights groups on the basis advocacy groups. Currently, No one would have assumed that the cube would don’t get any real talking done. and turned away men from of tyranny of the majority, citing enough isn’t being done. The disappear forever. Some segments of femi- entering conversations relating the male-centric patriarchy as real issues aren’t being looked at The University can’t expect to instill a sense nist groups and feminist philos- to women’s rights citing reasons a reason to exclude men from nor focused on. of pride in its students when an honored tradition ophy have taken an unfair and such as: “It’s not about men, conversations involving their like the cube is abruptly taken away. Its mysterious one-sided approach against it’s about women,” “it doesn’t very own rights and abilities [email protected] removal speaks poorly of the University. men’s rights groups. This is concern men,” “only women to achieve and maintain happi-

SEND US YOUR LETTERS DISCLAIMER EDITORIAL POLICY Have something on your mind? Send your thoughts (400 words maximum) The opinions presented within this page do not represent the views Editorials are the unified voice of the editorial board, which is composed to [email protected] or drop by our offices at either GC 210 or WUC 124. of The Beacon Editorial Board. These views are separate from editori- of the editor in chief, management, and the editors of each of the five With your letter, be sure to include your name, major, year, and copy of your als and reflect individual perspectives of contributing writers and/or sections. The Beacon welcomes any letters regarding or in response to its student ID. The Beacon will only run one letter a month from any individual. members of the University community. editorials. Send them to [email protected]. Contact Us Jeffrey Pierre Entertainment Director [email protected] LIFE! The Beacon – 4 fiusm.com Wednesday, June 25, 2014 Artists explore sexual identity at ‘Bend’ JUNETTE REYES Museum, or any museum interest because it does take Editor-in-Chief for that matter. But then the some time for that to evolve. people who come and join us, So I really think that espe- Tyler Wasson, a University whether they submitted or not, cially the paintings, their heart psychologist and LGBTQA are also acknowledging those and soul is in that and they specialist in the office of voices— just acknowledging get to see that piece evolve Counseling and Psychological the struggle. Participating in the more effort they put into Services, made an oath when a struggle that might be there, it. I think that says a lot about he first graduated with his participating in a celebration identity as well, like the more degree to support the margin- that might be there. It’s not all effort you put into searching alized and to give a voice to a struggle. I think that a show and discovering, exploring the voiceless. like this does that. It gives a your identity, the more you’re Wasson specifically voice to people who may not gonna learn, the more you’re assisted in giving a voice to the otherwise feel they have a able to express,” said Wasson. LGBTQA community within voice,” said Wasson. Natalie Merola, one of the University in art form by Curated by Brittni Winkler, the artists and a digital media organizing and producing art a curatorial practice student alumna, chose photography exhibitions in the Patricia and at the University, the exhibi- as her outlet with three photo- Phillip Frost Art Museum. tion featured the work of six graphs in the exhibition The second annual art show artists. In the form of paint- featuring Palace, the first and titled “Bend,” presented by ings, photographs and videos, only gay restaurant and bar Contributed by Camilo Londono the CAPS and the Multicul- bodies were shown in motion at South Beach known for its Camilo Londono, a journalism and mass communications alumni, displayed ihis image, tural Programs and Services’ or expressing something drag shows. “Release,” as part of the Bend Exhibit. LGBTQA Initiatives, recently while exploring the concept of “When I got to go behind them. Some people identify as was important to embrace deserve to be showcased as ran from May 22 to June 11 gender. the scenes with Noel Leon, a queen or that they’re gay but and show this— how people human beings, for who they and focused on lived expe- “I don’t know about all of one of the featured subjects sometimes it’s just a straight feel and how they choose to are.” riences of gender, sexuality, them, but when I think about in my photography, she was man that wants to dress up. It’s express themselves and that Merola has a unique empowerment and equality. the paintings, that is some- telling me that the craft goes different people trying to iden- they are no different from perspective of the craft as she “The artists themselves get thing that takes time and the a little deeper than what most tify with how they feel on the other people. These people identifies as an ally, explaining to put their voices out there work evolves over time. It’s people see. They think that it’s inside,” said Merola. that are very marginalized just by creating this work and something that if your heart is just someone that wants to be “I particularly thought it deserve that voice and they SEE BEND, PAGE 5 having it shown in the Frost not in it, you’re going to lose a woman. They try to label MTV’s “Faking It,” chronicles high school homosexuality MADARI PENDAS effects of their charade. fawn over men and create new ploys to and “Teen Wolf,” have gay characters, the Staff Writer The show has a lot of of endearing get male attention, it focuses on a charac- struggle and methods through which they qualities and several positive messages. ter’s real attraction to her best friend, and derive their answers are not explored as A few weeks ago MTV premiered a For instance, female homosexuality is her attempts at understanding her feelings extensively. For instance, in “Glee,” Kurt program titled “Faking it,” that chron- rarely explored on television— and when and herself. A lot of young people who are Hummel already identifies as gay he is icles the lives of two high school girls, it is, the heteronormative standard, which struggling to find themselves can find a just not openly gay in the beginning of the Karma Ashcroft and Amy Raudenfeld, dominates the majority of television, relatable role model in this show. series; whereas in “Faking it,” Amy tries played by Katie Stevens and Rita Volk is applied. Even so, in the past decade Having a lesbian protagonist other gay to identify and understand her attraction respectively, who decide to pretend to be programs like “The L Word” and “Orange youths a character they can identify with, to Karma. lesbians in order to raise their popularity is the New Black” have explored lesbi- who shares their struggles, validates their The show allows viewers to witness and social standing. However, Amy is not anism and female sexuality more openly. feelings and normalizes their experiences. Amy’s journey into self discovery, from pretending. They attend a high school The aforementioned shows are typically This is atypical of MTV since some of her first kiss with Karma, where her ques- where the typically marginalized groups staged at a later period in womens’ lives, their most popular programming, such as tions first manifest, to dealing with the crit- are the most popular and are the domi- whereas “Faking it” explores homosexu- “The Jersey Shore” and “the Real World,” icism of her overly conservative family, to nant voice of the student populace. Amy ality at an earlier stage. lack positive roles models and that glorify learning to accept herself (which hasn’t and Karma are subsequently nominated It also avoids a lot of the regular plot misconduct. yet occurred in the new series). as homecoming queens and spend the devices that are common in teen dramas. It also poses a good question: am I gay? SEE MTV, PAGE 5 remainder of the series dealing with the Instead of having the female protagonist Although a lot of teen dramas, like “Glee” Touring band Jacuzzi Boys sits down with FIUSM

JUNETTE REYES & DIEGO the same week, I think. I don’t know complicated or anything. It’s just what- SALDANA-ROJAS what drew us to our instruments. I just ever we’re feeling. FIUSM Staff wanted to play guitar and I think Diego had played drums before and wanted How do you translate your songs In collaboration with WRGP Radiate drums. It’s just how it all worked out. from a recording to a live performance? FM’s program titled Local Radiation, Danny: I personally don’t really try FIUSM has had the chance to interview How did you meet? to translate it. They’re just two different several up-and-coming as well as estab- Gabriel: I met Diego in high school, experiences. When I go see a band lished acts in the Miami scene. and then Diego and I met Danny play, I’m not hoping that it sounds like This time around, FIUSM got to through our mutual friend, Rydel, who the record. It’s kind of like the record sit down and interview lead vocalist is our tour manager. is one thing, you can sit at home or Gabriel and bassist Danny of the drive your car and listen to it. I’m not Jacuzzi Boys. Jacuzzi Boys is addition- How would you say the band has too concerned ever to replicate exactly ally made up of drummer Diego, who evolved since your formation? what went on in the studio. we did not have a chance to meet. Danny: I guess we’ve kind of taken Gabriel: We play the songs actually more chances; willing to experiment a ten times faster live. I think that’s cool. How did each of you gravitate little bit more and not feel tied down to I think we sound [...] pretty different Junette Reyes/The Beacon towards your roles and instruments in some idea of what it should sound like. from our records, and I think that’s a Frontman Gabriel (left), drummer Diego (middle) and the band? We’ve maybe gotten a little better at good thing. bassist Danny of the Jacuzzi Boys performing at Gramps Danny: Well, I had no option. playing but maybe not too much. bar in Wynwood. Gabriel: Diego and I started the Gabriel: I don’t know if you would Would you say you’re more aggres- Gabriel: Maybe not in all songs, but I think on most of band and I just wanted to play the call it an evolution. I think we just sive live? guitar. Diego and I got our instruments always do what our version of rock and Gabriel: Yeah, I think so. SEE MUSIC, PAGE 5 roll is. I don’t think songs get anymore Danny: I think it’s safe to say that. fiusm.com LIFE! The Beacon – Wednesday, June 25, 2014 5 Exhibition gives voice to New scripted show offers LGBTQA community alternative perspective BEND, PAGE 4 think that is very integral for represented than it used to be, MTV, PAGE 4 dominant attitude; instead, two young all art shows, to enlighten it still is important for people men of different orientations can feel that it is necessary to be a people and to open up their to learn more. In one of the episodes Amy is laying comfortable dancing together and openly voice so that other allies can perspectives,” said Merola. “It’s pretty important just in bed fantasizing about kissing Karma discussing their feelings. acknowledge the importance. Sergio Potes, another artist because it lets people like again, and feels content and comfort- The show, however, has some serious “Because I’m an ally, I can showcased in the exhibi- you come out and see that able in their embrace. This scene shows flaws that are hopefully resolved by the see each person’s different tion and a senior psychology we’re just regular people. young women how acceptable exploration end of the series. One of my qualms personality or the different major, chose paintings as his It gives people a chance to is, and normalizes female-female interac- with the program is the way homosexu- sociological perspectives and outlet to convey his message. socialize with someone who is tions and feelings, instead of ostracizing ality is viewed as a method of popularity, how they choose to express His work showed a male openly gay or out there,” said the feelings or using the cliche “it’s just and most gay teenagers are not exalted themselves. It’s kind of like an figure with a curvaceous Londono. a phase.” like Amy and Karma— rather they face artist can be either a sculptor, shape that could be mistaken Merola specifically Amy is an excellent role model for serious difficulties and struggles that the a painter, an illustrator or they for a female’s body, touching expressed the importance of adolescents, while Karma is a high school show has neglected to present thus far. can be all of the above. It upon the idea that a male body this at the University. trope. Karma begins a clandestine rela- It treats gay identity as trivial and light- makes me feel happy that no is not always bulky and can be “The CAPS and the tionship with Liam, whom she fawns hearted and ignores the anguish many gay matter what, these people are considered soft and as attrac- LGBTQA Initiatives at FIU over constantly because he’s the most people experience. who they are and they don’t tive as a female’s. are making great strides here popular and attractive guy in their school. Not everyone’s coming out experience care who knows it. They’re “My work doesn’t touch in the University and within However, as MTV is not quite ready to is the same, and the show explores an alter- gonna be themselves. That’s upon so deeply on what the community. Just making break their reliance on teenage stereo- native while offering positive messages the most important thing: to they’re trying to shed light sure that those students feel types, most of Karma’s scenes focus on and strong characters that many marginal- be free inside and outside,” upon: transgender. Unfortu- very valued. FIU has been Karma going through extraordinary means ized youths can identify with. In an inter- said Merola. nately, my work isn’t about the best experience for me as to get Liam’s attention. Amy even ques- view show creator Carver Covington, Merola explained that that but I think that trans- an ally and going through all tions Karma’s motives and criticizes the he spoke with a person who confessed, using photography as an outlet gender is very important right sorts of other things. It defi- “trying-to-get-a-boy-to-like-you” as the “I’m worried that my friends are only my helps one see things through a now. Even I, as a gay person, nitely made me feel like home only female imperative. Amy, on the other friends because I’m gay.” different light when one is an am not so informed with and I think now making that hand, confronts her homophobic mother. “I was shocked,” Covington said. “That outsider in somebody else’s what’s going on with trans- community feel a part of it is The attitudes expressed on the show idea seemed so foreign to me given the culture. gendered people. I’m still even more important because directly contrast the stereotypes and world I grew up in, but this kid explained “I’m kind of like that fly learning about that. It’s weird now it is all encompassing. I archaic gender roles a lot of MTVs that he went to a very tolerant high school in the wall. I get to indulge to me; it’s cool and it’s inter- hope more students find that programs have demonstrated. For instance where being gay was like a badge of in all the greatness that these esting. It’s something I think this is their home here,” said a “machismo” standard is evident in a lot honor. That’s when I realized there are people have in their own more people need to find out Merola. of MTV’s most popular programs, like schools out there where being gay is no communities. I think the more more about,” said Potes. The Bend exhibition addi- the “Real World” and the “Jersey Shore,” longer a problem, and tolerance is viewed people see outside of their Camilo Londono, a jour- tionally featured the work of where the men are portrayed as aggres- as an asset.” own culture, they start to shed nalism and mass communi- artists Sean D. Henry Smith, sors and sexual conquistadors. “Faking away that ethnocentricity. cations alumnus showcased Carlos-Miguel Rivas, and It” shows a different type of masculinity, [email protected] They start to truly become in the exhibition, said that Daniela Montoya one in which hyper-masculinity is not the more cultured and under- although he felt the commu- standing and compassionate nity has been pretty well [email protected] for another human being. I Local act on touring MUSIC, PAGE 4 crowd gets crazier and does ever. I say it every time we different things. If it’s a good start the show. We definitely show, it’s a good show. It just love where we’re from. them. When you’re playing feels good regardless. I’d say live, you’re kind of more when you’re over there, you Does the city influence amped than just being in the get to sleep in hotel rooms your music? studio. It’s sort of a different and you get better food and Danny: It’s definitely an energy. stuff like that. I think that’s influence. I think anywhere Tell us about your tour the main difference. you’re living will sort of through Europe. What lets you know have an effect. All of it, the Danny: It’s always fun, you’re back home? nice weather, the party atmo- man. It’s always kind of Gabriel: The weather. sphere, the heavy Latin influ- weird in the best sense. You just get out and that’s it. ence. All of it. Europe is pretty much I remember on the last Euro- Gabriel: It’s in some of always a positive experience. pean tour, as soon as we got the lyrics. It probably does People over there are really back, the sun was out— not more than we think. friendly; you get treated a cloud in the sky. We hadn’t well. Shows are always fun. had that in like a month. It What do you think of I think we probably played was pretty gloomy; the sun the current state of Miami’s to the biggest crowd we ever would go down at 3 p.m. music scene? played to. Danny: We always have Danny: I think it’s at a Gabriel: It always feels connecting flights some- good spot right now. It has like a “What are we doing where but I feel like the had its fair share of ups and here?” kind of experience. second we land in the downs over the years and U.S. somewhere and I see stuff but I think it’s in a good Have you noted any someone with gold teeth, spot. It’s kind of a bummer differences between the I’m always like “We’re back that Churchill’s is kind of European audiences and in the U.S.” changing hands but we’ll see the ones here? how that pans out. We’re at Gabriel: There is a Would you say you take an important moment right difference. It’s not like, say a sense of Miami with you now with that changing, a French crowd gets wilder when you travel? because it singlehandedly or anything. But in Europe, Danny: Yeah, because kept the scene going over the when we talk to the bands people always ask where years. Nothing even comes [as Americans], they’re kind we’re from because of our close to it.It’s a special place of in awe. funny accents, so I guess we for sure. Danny: I think the bring it. biggest difference is kind Gabriel: We always tend For the full interview, of just the way the bands to bring banners that say check fiusm.com. are treated when you go Miami on it or “The Jacuzzi overseas. It’s not like one Boys from Miami,” what- Contact Us Rhys Williams Sports Director [email protected] SPORTS The Beacon – 6 fiusm.com Wednesday, June 25, 2014

COLUMN Several Panthers named to Preseason C-USA teams COLUMNIST Early June tion last season while going 1-11. possibly follow in the footsteps of had the release Smith had 39 receptions for former offensive lineman, Caylin of Phil Steele’s 388 yards, including a 10 reception Hauptmann, all the way to the 2014 Preseason game against the Pirates of East NFL. All-C-USA foot- Carolina University. However, if they can’t get the ball team, from However, with only two touch- number of sacks, quarterback the first team to downs in the entire season, those hurries, and tackles-for-losses RHYS WILLIAMS what would be the numbers lack a certain luster to me, down, I doubt that we will be fourth string. even for a tight end. seeing a Panther offensive lineman This is not something to be I respect the position a lot on anyone’s big board for a while. stunned by as Steele is one of the more than the average fan, but The next name that pops up on most highly respected college foot- still, I think he needs to have a the list is the first on the defensive ball analysts around. breakout year to get close to being side of the ball for the Panthers: the It should come as no surprise All-Conference. 6-foot-3, 200 pound safety Justin that there are a few Panthers This, along with the uncertainty Halley. among the names, but there are of who will be leading the offense, The Boca Raton native is some concerning ones from Head may not be the best thing for an entering his final year for the Coach Ron Turner’s second year at offensive All-Conference hopeful. Panthers and if he has any hope of the helm. continuing to play, he must make Budwig, Halley, Leonard all this season phenomenal.

Smith highest ranked Panther share the fourth-team Halley had 53 total tackles in the Jasen Delgado/Beacon File 2013 campaign and never reached The first Panther sighting on Offensive guard Jordan Budwig double digits in a single contest. Safety Justin Halley (tackling) was the only primary defensive player Steele’s list is one of the few who has the measurables of the typical This, along with the three sacks named by Phil Steele. He will be leaned on heavily by Head Coach had a decent year in 2013, tight end offensive lineman; he’s 6-foot-4 and eight pass breakups that he had, Ron Turner to lead the defense for the 2014 season. Jonnu Smith. and weighs in around 325 lbs. make me a little hesitant to put him For being in It is very hard for someone to on a preseason C-USA team but he was academically ineligible for the list is for missing that season. a mostly disre- measure the talent and level of an may end up surprising everyone. 2013 campaign. One of the least surprising garded position offensive lineman, especially one The second to last Panther Turner is on the list as the events to me would be Leonard in today’s foot- in the interior, but I can see why mentioned by Steele is cornerback fourth-team punt returner. making first or second team ball, Smith was this pick makes sense. and kick-returner Richard Leonard. I could see this happening if he All-C-USA. can truly get back to form, but I pretty spectacular He has the potential to be a The last statistics for Leonard SEE STEELE, PAGE 7 SMITH – given the situa- pretty good offensive lineman and are from the 2012 season, as he think the reason he is so low on the

CLUB FEATURE TRULY INTERNATIONAL Scuba cats splash in the Floridian waters REBECCA CHARUR morning, afternoon or night dives sition that much simpler for those Staff Writer and can last between one to four who are interested in the sport hours. and wish to become certified. To most people who live in Dives offer SCUBA Cats a “Four divers can come in Miami, the ocean is their back- chance to explore local reefs, and we can give them gear, but yard, so it’s no surprise that a beaches and wrecks. Every anything above that we would variety of underwater activi- Panther has their beach of have to help you get your own ties have become local pastimes. preference. gear,” Lopes said. One in particular that has gained “When we have a new diver or Some basic equipment that a popularity among the public and someone starting off with limited member should own includes a university students alike is scuba experience, they tend to enjoy the mask, fins and a snorkel. Other diving. reef or the beach dives because diving basics are available to rent Unlike regular cats, the they are very comfortable for in local diving stores. Panthers in Florida International them,” Lopes said. “When they Since members may have to University SCUBA Cats Club start getting more advanced, they rent their own equipment, the dedicate their time to becoming like the challenge of going to the club provides special rates to better acquainted with the under- wrecks.” their divers on charter and equip- water world. Cats belonging to special ment rentals. According to junior biology groups may also organize activi- Besides the license and proper major Christian Lopes, the club ties such as spearfishing, catching scuba diving gear, the SCUBA was founded in 2010 by alumnus lobster and underwater photog- Cats maintain an open water Denny Carvajal and continues raphy. Interested Panthers can policy: anyone can participate in today under President Sebastian view some of the photography in the club, including alumni and Usquiano, also an alumnus. the club Facebook page. the general community. It has expanded and now hosts To participate in the club “We have technical divers about 500 members with an active activities, you must be a licensed [and] we have people who just roster of 10 people per semester. scuba diver with a minimum learned how to snorkel and “We mainly do dives from of an open water certification. started diving,” Lopes said. Key West up to Pompano Beach,” Fortunately, the club brings unli- There are a variety of members Usquiano said. censed people one step closer to at different levels and an equal Some other diving locations the experience by leading them to variety of dives to accommodate Maria Lorenzino/The Beacon are located between Jupiter, West better education and training. them, such as the recreational Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, “A big part of our club is that reef and wreck dives. Fortunately, Sanjay Dhawan, a senior academic advisor in hospitality, wears Miami Beach and Key Largo. we are affiliated with a lot of Florida is host to several types the Ghana flag at the World Cup kick off at BBC. His native The SCUBA Cats try to go out local businesses and we sponsor of reefs so there are numerous country’s team tied in their second game against Germany on to one of these locations at least their efforts to educate people diving possibilities. Saturday, June 21. Ghana plays against Portugal on Thursday. once a month. The dives may be about the ocean,” Lopes said. This affiliation makes the tran- [email protected] fiusm.com SPORTS The Beacon – Wednesday, June 25, 2014 7

CLUB FEATURE Lacrosse looks to become nationally known JORGE CORRALES team,” Quisenberry said. few warm up games before Contributing Writer Quisenberry has been a starting their season next captain each of the last three January. FIU Lacrosse is quickly years and will be president Later this year, FIU moving up the ladder in its of the team this coming year. Lacrosse will be taking on quest to become a nationally Next season, the team the Israeli national lacrosse recognized program. will compete in the Florida team, which is made up of The team is led by Lacrosse League in hopes professional players for the Head Coach Mark Parets. of gaining recognition and second time. Parets is no stranger to the an invitation to play in the The Panthers will also lacrosse scene in Florida; Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse have the honor of playing he played attack at Florida Association Division I. the first lacrosse game on State University from 1989 The Panthers would the Alfonso Field at FIU to 1992. play in the SouthEastern Stadium. He’s been a coach in the Lacrosse Conference along In January, they will be South Florida area since with schools like the Univer- taking on the University of 1997. Parets even earned a sity of Miami, Florida State Miami as an opener for an ring as a coach at Gulliver University and the Univer- NCAA Division I game. Preparatory School. sity of Central Florida. Under the leadership of In 2012, Parets was FIU already got a taste of players like Quisenberry, inducted into the South the competition they would Photo Courtesy of Erik Quisenberry the program will continue to Florida Chapter National face as a part of the SELC. grow and improve. Lacrosse Hall of Fame. In March, the Panthers The FIU Lacrosse club (dark jerseys) have played games against large and respected “We have a great group The Panthers’ leader on took on the Golden Knights universities. These teams include NCAA powerhouse Duke University (above). of guys out there,” Quisen- the field is senior attacker of the University of Central berry said. “They are willing Eric Quisenberry. Quisen- Florida. was 11-11. game for the Panthers, at FIU.” to put it all on the line to get berry played at Palmer The Golden Knights The Panthers eventually scoring six goals and having Games like this are what this program where it should Trinity High School and came in as the number one fell short in double over- five assists. fuel great rivalries in sports. be.” played one year at Louisiana ranked team in Florida at time but the game was a “It was a huge step When the Panthers do State University before the time and were heavily major step forward for the towards the right direction eventually begin to play Head over to fiusm.com returning to Miami to play favored against the Panthers. program. because we were supposed in the MCLA, you can to see some more photos at FIU. FIU went into halftime It was the first double to lose by 20 points,” bet the Golden Knights associated with this club “I came back to play on up 8-3 and in good position overtime game in FIU Quisenberry said. “It was will remember their prior feature. the FIU squad because a lot to upset the Knights. At the history. also my first game getting meeting with FIU. of my friends were on the end of regulation, the score Quisenberry had a huge 11 points in one game while The Panthers will have a [email protected] EXN Nutrition opening branch in Parking Garage 6 NUTRITION, PAGE 2 The discounts are still being don’t know the products and feels fine-tuned. that can make or break a nutrition Francisco Bonilla, senior Student athletes will also gain a store. communication arts major, believes possible advantage to EXN. “A lot of times [people] go into FIU should work with bringing in Cobon is in the works with these vitamin and nutrition stores healthier choices to campus, rather Athletics and the NCAA to sponsor and most of the people that work than opening up a Taco Bell or some- athletes with supplements and there don’t know what they’re thing that may not be as healthy. sportswear. talking about or what product people “Last thing we need is another The company already sponsors should be using,” Kornbluth said. “I fast food joint,” Bonilla said. “What athletes that compete in CrossFit would definitely go there if I knew we do need is good food for the events. the type of people I was going to people to try to eat healthier and live According to Cobon, 90 percent talk to are going to give me correct better lives.” of their employees compete in advice on what I should be taking Students won’t only benefit one way or another and take their and how to take it.” from this physically, but finan- products, so consumers won’t be The University has told EXN and cially. According to Cobon, they are receiving tips and information from Cobon that they have never passed working with FIU to put together someone who does not know the their deadlines on completing build- Rhys Williams/The Beacon scholarships for students, as well as product firsthand. ings on the FIU campus and he feels discounts in the form of a rewards Steve Kornbluth, a senior phys- confident that they will stick to their Parking Garage 6 will include many stores and classrooms including program for anyone with a Panther ical therapy major, noticed several word. the newest branch of EXN Nutrition. It will open in the Spring of 2015. ID card. other stores with employees who [email protected]

Senat, Francois snubbed by Steele’s list CLASSIFIEDS STEELE, PAGE 6 The Panthers did not score too often and I expect that if he stays healthy, he will most of these would be at the beginning of have more than the 16 tackles and two sacks SEEKING 3RD ROOMMATE Confusing pick by Steele the game or of the second half. that he had in 2013; if he does that and leads Out of those 19 kicks, only four were this pretty young team on the defensive side Beautifully furnished townhouse Austin Taylor was possibly the least touchbacks, which even at the college level of the ball, there is no question in my mind located in a secured community expected name to make this list from is too few in my opinion. that he would be All-C-USA. called the Gates, in Doral. Only 10 Panthers, but it happened anyway. Another notable player is center Donald minutes from campus. 3 bedroom He was one of two place-kickers that saw I think he missed a couple Senat, who is on the watch list for the apartment. Looking for male or playing time in the 2013 season, along with Rimington Trophy which goes to the nation’s female third roommate. Would have Sergio Sroka. The team is without it’s two defensive best center. own room with private bath. Any For his true freshman season, Taylor had leaders from last season, defensive tackles Senat, is one of 64 on the spring watch interests and for more information 66 percent in field goals and went 8-12 with Isame Faciane and Greg Hickman, who are list and if the offense gets more production please call: 305-469-1064 a long of 52 yards. both making names for themselves in the and keeps whoever will be playing quarter- He missed a point-af- NFL. back upright, then I think Senat may get both Faciane is with the Minnesota Vikings the nod for All-C-USA and the Rimington ter-touchdown which Alcohol Included for FREE! and Hickman is a member of the Detroit Trophy. brought his overall to Major cruise line. Incredible rare Lions. 11-12, which an All-Con- promotion selling fast. Multiple In comes defensive lineman Giovanni Head over to fiusm.com to see the video ference kicker cannot do. sailing dates at discounted Francois to take their place as leader of the associated with this column. It’s a bit strange that prices. FL Licensed Travel Agent. front seven for the Panthers on defense. someone who only kicked [email protected] Although he missed four games, he still [email protected] off 19 times throughout 10 954-632-4621 TAYLOR games would get this nod. put up some pretty decent numbers. Contact Us Rebeca Piccardo News Director [email protected] THE The Beacon – 8 t ay Wednesday, June 25, 2014 A fiusm.com B Renovations are in ON YOUR MARK... progress at the Wolfe University Center SOFIA GALIANO is completed and presented in the Panther Plaza Staff Writer ribbon-cutting set for August 29. Renovations in the bookstore began Friday, June 13, marked Renovations are underway at the Biscayne by a temporary wall during the initial weekend Bay Campus’ Wolfe University Center this of construction. summer. A wider storefront entrance, laminate wood Changes are coming to Panther Plaza, the floors and new eating options are just some of storefront and interior of the BBC Barnes & the changes to come by July. Noble at FIU and the Mary Anne Wolfe Theater Juli Savage, BBC bookstore manager, said as an effort to enhance the student experience at she is always looking for new food items, BBC, according to WUC Director Scott Jones. like the recently added oatmeal machine or “Overall, all of [the renovations] are to the hot soups and chili. Although renovations benefit of students,” said Jones. are underway, the space of the bookstore will He said the approximate months’ worth of remain the same. Maria Lorenzino/The Beacon work is moving quicker than expected. “My problem was I was running out of Swimmers from the Clydesdales, Athena, and relay categories begin the swim- The Panther Statue, a twin of the orig- space and electricity,” said Savage. ming portion of the 2575 Triathlon at Biscayne Bay Campus on May 18. inal monument mounted in front of the U.S. As a result, a countertop will be installed Century Bank Arena at the Modesto A. Maid- where the ice cream machine is located to ique Campus, was placed outside of WUC on provide additional room and power, according summer. Meanwhile, the theatre will be closed scheduled for completion by fall 2015. May 29. to Savage. for events. Jones said day use lockers will be also Jones said the 1-ton statue is covered by a The theatre booth is undergoing the Classes and programing will regain access installed in the Wolfe Center. tarp to protect it during construction. It may not first phase of renovations with audio-visual to the theater in fall, and the second phase of be unveiled until fall, when WUC construction upgrades, also expected to be completed by this renovations offering new floors and seating is [email protected] SGC-BBC aching to move forward with plans

ALEXI CARDONA & SOFIA GALIANO Felix also said there is talk of adding a parking garage at BBC nity engaged solutions center to be more world serving and stay FIUSM Staff within the next five years. competitive.” When first elected in April, Felix told Student Media her top Aside from increasing the percentage of graduation rates, the The Biscayne Bay Campus’ new Student Government Council priority is making BBC a more student-centered and unified iREAL draft hopes to increase enrollment, expand the universi- vowed to continue campaigning for a second road to access the campus. ty’s financial base and help graduates prepare for their careers in a University and work toward better meeting the needs of students To do this, SGC-BBC will form the Inter-Council Coalition, a quickly-evolving global marketplace. at BBC during their first meeting of the summer. partnership between BBC’s major student organizations; among An issue SGC-BBC has encountered over summer is poor SGC-BBC President, Jazmine Felix, said that while the main the organizations are the Student Programming Council, the Black meeting attendance. Felix stressed the importance of senators campus wants to expand by acquiring fairgrounds owned by the Student Union and the Council for Student Organizations to upholding their responsibilities and being committed to student Miami-Dade County Fair and Exposition, Inc., BBC’s struggle is address student needs and concerns. government. While in some meetings they have reached quorum, pushing for “Second Road to Success,” a campaign advocating for “The most direct link to students is the organization they join. there have been absent senators in every meeting so far. a new access point on campus. To better assess their needs, that’s where we’ll go through,” said “We need to call the senators and figure out what is going on,” Of the three options available for a second access road to BBC Felix. Felix said. – Northeast 163rd Street, Northeast 143rd Street and Northeast The council also wants to work toward improving the major According to Allhan Mejia, a sophomore management major 135th Street. maps and getting more general advisors for undergraduates. Felix and speaker of the senate, said even when they reach quorum and Over the next two years, BBC will see construction of new hopes this will help increase the university’s graduation rate. are allowed to discuss and pass legislation, there needs to be a dorms, the Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. facility, a building for Felix met with current provost Douglas Wartzok and incoming senator to represent students in each college to be able to update Math, Arts, Science and Technology Academy students and provost Kenneth Furton to discuss increasing the percentage of the constitution. possibly a wildlife center and science research museum. students who graduate from the University in four to six years. The council’s goal is to start updating the constitution by the Felix, a nursing and nutrition junior, hopes to see construction FIU integrating Research Engagement Assessing and Learning end of summer. on a second road start within the next year to help ease the increase Commission drafted a plan to “identify ways FIU can leverage its of traffic and activity BBC will experience. current success as a world-class research university and a commu- [email protected] FIU opens National Association of Black Journalists

SOFIA GALIANO senior communication arts major. access to additional resources through the club makes her glad that Staff Writer He said although the University is diverse, black students are she joined. poorly represented in the school of journalism. Jasmine Richardson, a senior majoring in broadcast journalism Melody Timothee, a senior public relations major, had never In 2012, black journalism students made up about 15 percent of and vice president of NABJ, said the success of the club relies on been involved in campus clubs or activities, then she found out the total number of SJMC students taking lower division courses, its members. For this reason, she wants to recruit freshmen who about the newly-formed University chapter of the National Asso- and made up about 11 percent of the total SJMC students enrolled can maintain the club once the current board members graduate. ciation of Black Journalists and decided to take part in its launch. in upper division courses, according to the SJMC’s online public With less than a dozen unregistered members, the club hopes “I now have something I can say I am a part of,” Timothee accountability. to reach students using social media and events, including hosting said. “Within the school, the black population is very small,” said guest speakers and a bowling night. They intend to reach these Black reporters at FIU are now represented by the NABJ as Neil Reisner, SJMC faculty and NABJ advisor. incoming students by presenting themselves during the communi- the University’s chapter concludes its first semester of meetings. Although black journalism students are lacking, Reisner said cation orientation in the fall semester, she said. It took several years of discussion with the School of Jour- he wants the club’s membership to grow in the upcoming semes- Richardson said the organization also plans to collaborate with nalism and Mass Communication faculty, the Society of Profes- ters, inviting students of all majors and races. the Black Student Union and host meetings at the Modesto A. sional Journalists and an eager group of students for the associa- “We are not segregated and anybody who wants to join can Maidique campus in the future. But, NABJ is currently focused on tion’s chapter to begin late last year. join,” he said. attracting students at the Biscayne Bay Campus, where the school According to Clayton Gutzmore, president of the University’s This semester, local media professionals from the Sun Sentinel, of journalism is located. chapter, the club will be accredited by fall 2014. He said the club the Miami Dolphins media Relations and Harris Public Relations “The club is in its baby stages,” said Richardson. was created to provide networking opportunities and to pave the came to speak to students on how they can advance in the field. way for black communication students on-campus. “It breaks the Timothee, who first found out about the club from Gutzmore, [email protected] barrier between ‘professional’ and ‘aspiring,’” said Gutzmore, a said that interacting with professionals in her field and having