The Beacon, September 26, 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 19 www.ﬁ usm.com September 26, 2008

RESTORATION START TALKING GOLDEN IDOL DISTASTEFUL New and improved library Televised debates begin Sept. 26 Dance Marathon searches for star Fans lack respect vs. USF

AT THE BAY PAGE 3 OPINION PAGE 4 LIFE! PAGE 5 SPORTS PAGE 8 STUDENTS BUSTED CENTER FOR CHANGE 47 charged with underage drinking

DANIELLA BACIGALUPO By comparison, at the University of News Director Miami’s season opener against Charleston Southern University on Aug. 28, ABT gave Athletics believes the inauguration of the 67 citations: 60 were given for drinking-age football stadium marks the start of a new era violations and seven for fake identifi cations in FIU football. or disorderly conduct. Over 48,000 fans at- Public Safety hopes it won’t inaugurate a tended the game at Dolphin Stadium. new era in on-campus underage drinking. “There was more tailgating, more celebra- Last Saturday’s inaugural game against tion for being the fi rst stadium game,” said the University of South Florida saw a previ- King. “We suspect we may not see that num- ously unprecedented number of FIU students ber of violations again and I’m really hopeful attend an athletic event but also brought over that there won’t be. It’s a concern of ours and 50 underage drinking charges. we will do whatever we need to do to address The State of Florida Division of Alcoholic it.” Beverages and Tobacco agents gave 56 no- King said that ABT works with campus tices to appear in court for underage drink- police but at Saturday’s game all write-ups ing on-campus and in Tamiami Park, said were made solely by nine ABT offi cers. Alexis Antonacci, press secretary for ABT’s According to Student Conduct and Confl ict Department of Business and Professional Resolution Director Karen A. Dlhosh, as of Regulations. pre-publication, 47 out of the 57 charges were Chief of Police Bill King said underage given to FIU students. drinking arrests are not uncommon at FIU Still, this number is signifi cantly higher football games, although there was an in- than previous games on-campus and at the crease in charges because of the larger atten- Orange Bowl, where all of last season’s home dance of about 16,100 participants. games were played. Charges at the old FIU One 21 year old was taken to Miami-Dade stadium and Orange Bowl were no more than County’s Turner Guilford Knight Correctional 10 per game, according to Dlhosh. Center for providing alcohol to a minor; one Campus Life gave out free FIU football T- citation was given to a juvenile and one to an RICK MARTINEZ/FIUSM.COM FIU student-athlete. DRINKING, page 2 ZOBAMA: Miami Heat center Alonzo Mourning speaks about the importance of voting in Graham Center’s Pit on Sept. 24. Speaker off ers student Contract clause impacts perspective on hazing future student-athletes ELSIE PUIG for membership,” explained humiliating” acts of his life. Contributing Writer Alex Ruiz, Interfraternity At fi rst, with Halloween Council President and broth- music playing, he thought his CHARLIE GRAU been approved by the Athletic Director.” Matt Weymouth was ex- er of Tau Kappa Epsilon. teammates were just trying to Editor in Chief If this clause is broken, it allows Cristobal cited to spend a weekend in a “Hazing has gone to a scare him, but unfortunately to void his leave the football program at any lake cabin in New Hampshire completely different level. It it was not the case. In an effort to build a dominant athletic pro- time. with his football team. Then gram, FIU went on an all out blitz to fi nd the According to a U.S.A. Today article pub- came the words that would What happens here stays here, best coach to lead its growing football program. lished on Dec. 5, 2007, such a clause is not change his life forever: “What The man picked to lead the charge: Mario known to exist in any other NCAA Division happens here stays here, and and if anything gets out I will Cristobal. I-A head coaching contract. Even if a player if anything gets out I will se- seriously kill you. The cost: $2.2 million over a span of six years, he recruits does not satisfy FIU’s admissions riously kill you.” along with some other perks in his contract. requirements, it allows the player to gain eli- Matt Weymouth Weymouth went on to Compared to other coaches like Oklahoma’s gibility as long as he meets the NCAA aca- Johnson & Wales student become one of the leading Bob Stoops, who earns $6.5 million, Florida’s demic eligibility requirement. advocates against hazing Urban Meyer who earns $3.4 million and “Football coaches want to make sure they practices in sports teams and Miami’s Randy Shannon who earns $1.5 million don’t want to take a job where they can’t get Greek organizations. has gone from freshman car- “I was dragged into a per year, the price tag may not seem so steep. NCAA qualifying students into school, be- Weymouth, a Johnson & rying water jugs across a fi eld room, restrained by four team But it is not coach Cristobal’s $390,000 cause it is promised to them when they take Wales student, told his story and being told to sing in the members, ‘teabagged,’ they base salary that has raised some fl ags about his the job,” Garcia said. “A lot of coaches want to an arena full of fraterni- cafeteria, to sexual abuse and pulled down my pants and contract, but rather a clause that says Athletic to make sure they are protected.” ties and sororities Sept. 23 assault,” Weymouth said. tried to insert a banana into Director Pete Garcia will have fi nal say for The NCAA academic eligibility require- as part of National Hazing Weymouth came from my rectum,” he said. admissions of Cristobal’s recruits even if they ment is a sliding scale for freshman athletic Prevention Week hosted by a small rural town in In the years that fol- don’t meet the University’s standards. eligibility, based on GPAs in 16 core cours- Athletics, Order of Omega, Massachusetts, where as a lowed he fell to drug addic- In the contract under a section entitled es (such as math, English and science) and in conjunction with Campus high school freshman he tion, depression and abusive ‘University Duties,’ it is stated that the “univer- standardized tests. There is a minimum core Life and Student Government played football for Kentuckey behavior. sity shall admit to FIU all student-athletes meet- GPA of 2.0, which would require an SAT Association. Regional High School. On the “I got death threats, I got ing the NCAA academic eligibility requirement of 1,010. There is no minimum SAT score “Hazing is anything that weekend retreat to the lake thrown bananas at me, people (Division I core GPA and Testing Score Sliding required. But the lowest possible score re- a fraternity or sorority does cabins in New Hampshire, he Scale,) provided the student-athlete has been that can deem a pledge unfi t was subjected to “the most HAZING, page 2 cleared through the NCAA clearing house and CONTRACT, page 2 2 The Beacon – September 26, 2008 NEWS www.fi usm.com

NEWS FLASH Garcia heads Athletics’ admissions CONTRACT, page 1 FIU uncomfortable. Philip Hughes, quires a core GPA higher than associate Athletics director Board of Trustees ratify new contract for full- 3.55 for eligibility. for Student Services and for- time employees “It’s basically a three prong mer president of the National process. The student has to Associations of Academic The Board of Trustees ratified a new three- meet the NCAA academic Advisors for Athletics said no year contract that will allow full-time sup- eligibility requirements. The individual person should be port employees who were hired before July 1, coach cannot admit anyone responsible for admitting stu- 2005 to enjoy the same benefits faculty mem- into the school. The student- dents with special talents. bers and administrators have available to them. athlete has to have met the “I do not understand why The agreement, ratifi ed this week by a 480 to 40 NCAA academic eligibility re- there would admissibility in a vote from members of the American Federation of quirements and then have to be person’s contract. Admission State, County and Municipal Employees, guarantees cleared by the NCAA Clearing standards, procedures, deci- a 4-percent pay increase, more leave time and tuition house and then they have to sions and criteria have to reside waivers for members of their immediate family, be cleared by myself,” Garcia in the institution. I don’t know among other benefi ts. said. why that would be in coach’s This is common practice contract,” Hughes said. NATIONAL among many college football Garcia disagrees. Kinky Friedman under fi re for past racial slurs programs. “Some might say, why does “If you are familiar with it need your approval, Pete? Comedian, musician and independent gubernato- those requirements, those are Because there could be the rial candidate Kinky Friedman defended using a racial the type of student athletes that possibility that a student ath- slur during a performance at a Houston nightclub 26 every major football program lete could meet the NCAA ac- years ago after an audio clip of the stand-up routine recruits. So it’s really noth- ademic requirements, could be VICTORIA LYNCH/THE BEACON was posted on the Internet. ing different any other major cleared by the clearing house, Sixty-one-year-old Friedman said he has tried to schools does,” Garcia said. but let’s say he has a history CRISTOBAL’S CLAUSE: Cristobal’s contract states Athletic expose and lampoon racism and was making fun of But such language in any of getting arrested. Then I’m Director Pete Garcia has the fi nal say when admitting stu- bigots when he used the n-word twice in a joke. university employee’s con- going to say I don’t want that dent athletes into FIU. But state Representative and Former Chairman tract makes some feel a little kid,” Garcia said. of the Texas Legislative Black Caucus Garnet Cole- man said it’s diffi cult to fi nd the humor in his joke. Friedman also had remarks about Katrina evacuees in Houston in which he referred to them as crackheads 47 students arrested at stadium opener and thugs. DRINKING, page 1 Julie Berg and Assistant Athletic open containers, open bottles. [ABT of- WORLD Director of Media Relations Richard J. fi cers] didn’t have to go looking for it,” shirts days before Saturday’s game with Kelch said there is no tolerance of any she said. U.S. soldier killed in helicopter crash a Student Conduct pamphlet outlining drinking from student-athletes. Noelle, a 20-year old student who tailgating information. “Golden Panther “We are very strict. Disciplinary ac- was arrested and refused to give her Chief Warrant Offi cer Timothy R. Breneman, a Dont’s” stated that underage drinking tion is internal between administration, last name, said she saw fi ve to six plain- soldier from Ormond Beach, Fla. was one of two was subject to arrest and prosecution. coaches and student-athletes, but be- clothed police offi cers, some with vis- Americans killed when a U.S. helicopter crashed Underage drinking, on- or off-cam- lieve me, it’s addressed,” Berg said. ible badges, stopping students walking during a routine training in southern Germany, pus, violates the FIU Student Code of Both Berg and Kelch explained that toward the tailgate area. according to Army offi cials. Conduct. All students were holding Breneman, 36, was the pilot in command of the Students, in addition plastic cups, she explained, AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopter that crashed to appearing in court and but none were being disrup- Sept. 19 during night gunnery training at the Grafen- Students were just walking up with open contain- complying with issued tive. More effort should have woehr Training Area. Co-pilot gunner Chief Warrant fi nes, community service ers, open bottles. [ABT offi cers] didn’t have to go gone toward students who were Offi cer Terry M. Thomas, of Baton Rouge, La., was or alcohol education class- drinking and driving and stu- also killed in the crash. looking for it es, will also appear be- dents who were “belligerently” Both men were members of the First Armored Karen Dlhosh, Director fore the Offi ce of Student drunk. Division’s 12th Combat Aviation Brigade. Offi ce of Student Conduct and Confl ict Resolution Conduct and Confl ict “I’ve gone to a lot of football Military offi cials said the crash was under inves- Resolution. games and I never encountered tigation. The violations will be handled on a Athletics has no obligation to report police arresting students,” she said. “If case-by-case basis but all students will legal incidents involving student-ath- they want to create a football tradition, Gunman goes on killing rampage at Finnish col- either accept responsibility and comply letes to the National Collegiate Athletic arresting students walking with alcohol lege with sanctions or appear before admin- Association and that this will not af- is not the best tactic.” istration or a student conduct commit- fect the department’s current four-year The Offi ce of Student Conduct and Police in Finland have identified ten victims tee, composed of two students and a probation with the association in any Confl ict Resolution made efforts to in- from Tuesday’s shooting massacre at a college in faculty or staff member. matter. form students of drinking regulations, Kahuajoki. Sanctions include a written repri- The NCAA was unavailable for but Dlhosh said she knows that with the The shooter, Matti Juhani Saari, was also identifi ed mand, probation period, online alco- comment. University’s increasing football popu- after he turned the gun on himself. hol education class or referral to FIU Some students complained that offi - larity and “college football culture,” counseling. cers unfairly targeted minors while ig- more outreach will be necessary to – Compiled by Julio Menache The FIU student-athlete will also noring other drinkers. make students aware of the risks. be called before the Offi ce of Student Dlhosh said some ABT offi cers were FIU Athletics is in a student “educat- Conduct and Confl ict Resolution. in full uniform and that minors were being” process and while tailgating will Athletics will handle any additional ing extremely obvious with their under- always be encouraged, students must reprimanding, Dlhosh said. age drinking. learn to tailgate responsibly, Berg and Senior Associate Athletic Director “Students were just walking up with Kelch said.

EDITORIAL BOARD UM incident leads to strict hazing law CHARLIE GRAU EDITOR IN CHIEF CHRISTOPHER NECUZE PRODUCTION MANAGER HAZING, page 1 of one single hazing incident is one of the states with the 2005, and stipulates harsh DANIELLA BACIGALUPO NEWS DIRECTOR JULIA CARDENUTO BBC MANAGING EDITOR from the 11 fraternities in strictest laws on hazing was penalties for hazing. JONATHAN DAVILA LIFE! EDITOR in my town called me snitch, FIU,” Ruiz said. “However, I because of the incident that “The fraternities can get ERIC FELDMAN OPINION EDITOR ANDREW JULIAN SPORTS DIRECTOR rat,” Weymouth said. have gone to conferences to happened in [University of kicked out of school, they can VICTORIA LYNCH PHOTO EDITOR He was able to recover and meet with fraternities from Miami],” Ruiz said. get sued, so it’s just not worth LEONCIO ALVAREZ COPY CHIEF decided to go public with the all over the country, and I In 2002, Chad Meredith, it,” Ruiz declared. INFORMATION hazing incident and e-mailed have heard of hazing inci- a member of Kappa Sigma This past week, Greek different media outlets. dents from people in other Fraternity at UM drowned organizations tabled to get The Beacon ofﬁ ce is located in the Graham Center, room 210, at He managed to change his schools.” while attempting to swim members to sign a pledge the University Park campus. Questions regarding display advertising and billing should be directed to the Advertising Manager school’s hazing policies to Hazing is not common drunk across the campus against hazing. a nd among at 305-348-6994. Mailing address: Graham Center, room 210, zero tolerance and bring at- at Florida schools due to lake, Lake Osceola, as part of the events held was “Train Miami, FL 33199. Fax number is 305-348-2712. Biscayne Bay tention to the issue by speak- the state’s stringent laws re- a fraternity initiation. the Trainer,” which described

Campus is 305-919-4722. Ofﬁ ce hours are 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., ing out about it. garding the practices, Ruiz The Chad Meredith Act ways to welcome new mem-

Monday through Friday. E-mail: Beacon@fi u.edu. Visit us online at www.fi usm.com “Fortunately, under my explained. was signed into law by for- bers without resorting to leadership, I have not heard “One of the reasons Florida mer Governor Jeb Bush in hazing. Contact Us Julia Cardenuto BBC Managing Editor atthebay@fi usm.com AT THE BAY The Beacon –3 www.fi usm.com September 26, 2008 Library renovations bring improvement

DANIELLE FREYRE aren’t coming from the SGC,” Contributing Writer Silva said. The second-floor bathroom Even with headphones on, is under heavy construction and Gabriela Stanelis finds it hard to will hopefully be ready by the block out the construction noise end of September, according to in the BBC library. Downs. “It’s pretty annoying,” said the “Every single time I try to go student currently in the master’s to the bathroom, it’s closed for program for Spanish journalism. cleaning, and that frustrates me,” Director of the BBC Library, said Joao Ribeiro, who is pursu- Antonie Downs, is looking for- ing his second bachelor’s degree ward to the building’s makeover, in biology. consisting of new bathrooms, Downs said rumors that have hurricane-resistant windows and surfaced about the work on the new computer software. second-floor bathrooms resum- The library, which first opened ing soon are not far from reality. in 1988, is undergoing physical The delay has been due to and virtual changes throughout, concerns that traffic and noise all with students’ best interests in will disturb the main entrance of mind, said Downs. the library, according to Downs. “It’s the shrine to all bath- The renovations to the library rooms,” said Downs, referring to aim to improve more than just the third-floor bathrooms. the functionality of the build- The bathrooms meet the ing on the inside, it also includes Americans with Disabilities Act new precautions designed to NATHAN VALENTINE/THE BEACON standards for accessible design strengthen the library’s hurricane WIND PROOF: New hurricane--resistant panels are being installed around the library’s main entrance. and were finally opened, accord- resistance. ing to Downs. Under previous hurricane She said that though they still preparation plans, in the event dows surrounding the library be another work in progress, ac- to improve the rest of the library. need some finishing touches, of a hurricane, each computer were just regular glass, but the cording to Downs. Renovations include relocation such as door handles and specific on the first floor was to be care- panels of glass being placed on Downs said that a system re- of information desks and making lighting, the bathrooms are now fully removed by the employees the first floor are all hurricane- ferred to as Lightweight Directory the learning center more accessi- being used. and staff members of the library. resistant and impact glass. Access Protocol, a web-based ac- ble to aid with students’ research Anna Maria Silva, Student Downs saw this is as a problem. The funds for these shutters cess program, is being placed on needs. Government Council president “If the hurricane never hits, came from $350,000 in salary a select number of computers for “These changes to the li- for the Biscayne Bay Campus, the next morning each computer savings from unfilled positions a trial run. brary have been in the books for guaranteed that the funds for the must be hauled back in and set- in the library. All students need is their pan- years but it just so happens we bathroom renovation didn’t come up before early morning opening Shutters are now covering the ther ID and password to login. got around to them now,” said from the SGC budget. hour,” Downs said. third floor but getting the funds Downs and others are work- Downs. “The funds, as far as I know, Downs said the original win- for the second floor is going to ing on new organization systems Professor awarded Fellowship for artistic achievement

VALERIE MULL thing I’ve done from creating work, to my globally and the concerns with nature, I into it,” Lund said. Contributing Writer teaching, to research and writing that got see this work as my reaction to all of these Dr. Orlando Garcia, who is compos- me the award,” Soledade said. “This is pressures.” ing the music for “Dreaming Amazonia,” Rewared with a copious amount of such a major honor and accomplishment.” Gary Lund, lighting designer and stage also acknowledges Soledade’s efforts and money and recognition for his work, an Part of Soledade’s application process manager for the Brazz Dance Theater, success. FIU professor is now able to further in- for the grant included submitting a pro- owned by Soledade, is one of Soledade’s “The Guggenheim fellowship is one of ternational research for his artistic posal for “Dreaming Amazonia,” supporters. the most difficult awards to obtain, and is project. a project he is currently working “He’s been working his whole life. confirmation and validation of the high- Augusto Soledade, assistant on. Anybody who has been awarded this level work that Augusto has been creat- professor of dance at FIU, was “‘Dreaming Amazonia’ is my fellowship is a very deserving person. ing,” Garcia said. awarded the 2008 Guggenheim current choreographic project. They’ve put their blood, sweat and time Fellowship in the Latin American/ I started working on it around Caribbean category through spring of 2007,” Soledade said. the John Simon Guggenheim “Dreaming Amazonia’’ is a cho- SOLEDADE Fellowship Program in the spring reographed dance that, accord- of 2008. ing to Soledade, was inspired “I am a choreographer who tries to by dances and rituals practiced by the understand and look at the past, my his- Amazonian people. JOIN OUR STAFF! tory and my roots and bring that into the Its idea is not to take the dances his an- work, but I also feel that it is absolutely cestors did and bring them on his stage, but essential that I look at who I am and how I to be inspired by them and create his own The BEACON is always looking for talented live in the present in order to create,” said contemporary rituals. Soledade, who is also the artistic director “[Dreaming Amazonia] will premier in and reliable individuals to join the staff. If you of the Brazz Dance Theater in Miami. April 2009. The venue it is going to pre- have an interest in writing, photography or According to the official John Simon miere at is not completely set,” Soledade Guggenheim Memorial Fellowship Web said. even grammar, don’t be shy. site, Guggenheim Fellowships are grants The Guggenheim Fellowship will be Stop by one of our offi ces located in GC 210 awarded to those “who have demonstrated applied to further “Dreaming Amazonia,” exceptional capacity for productive schol- according to Soledade. In Nov. 2007, and WUC 124. For more information, e-mail arship or exceptional creative ability in the Soledade spent 15 days in Manaus, capital arts.” of Amazonas, Brazil, where he did some kassandra.pool@fi usm.com or Each year since 1925, the foundation research for the project. shervin.bain@fi usm.com has awarded multiple applicants fellow- “I interviewed members of indigenous ships ranging from $32,000 to $36,000. communities. I visited a couple of them to “I’ve been working as a choreographer, observe their style and ways of life, and I dancer and teacher for a little while now, observed some of their dances and rituals,” so it’s probably a combination of every- Soledade said. “With everything going on Contact Us Eric Feldman Opinion Editor opinion@fi usm.com OPINION The Beacon – 4 www.fi usm.com September 26, 2008 2008 ELECTION UPDATE

Presidential debates essential MCCAIN POSTPONES CAMPAIGN Sen. John McCain offi cially suspended his presidential campaign IRIS A. FEBRES is no Soviet domination of Eastern cording to Nielsen Media Research, on Sept. 24 in order to work with Washington and address the nation’s Asst. Opinion Editor Europe.” 62.4 million viewers watched George current fi nancial crisis. McCain called upon his opponent Sen. Barack This comment may have given the Bush and John Kerry at their podiums Obama to do the same after requesting for the fi rst presidential debate to Eyes will turn to televisions on ’76 election to Carter, for he himself in 2004, which is almost 20 million be postponed. Sept. 26 at 9 p.m. EST, as the fi rst admitted, “If it hadn’t been for the de- more viewers than the Al Gore/Bush According to the Associated Press, McCain said, “I do not believe presidential debate will unfold at the bates, I would have lost.” debates in 2000. that the plan on the table will pass as it currently stands, and we are run- University of Mississippi. This year, I am positive more eyes I am sure both presidential can- ning out of time.” Obama disagreed with McCain and asserted that he Sens. John McCain and Barack will tune in to the presidential de- didates are banking on their perfor- would proceed with the debate while consulting with Treasury Secretary Obama will take the stage for 90 min- bates within the coming weeks than mances to sway independent voters Henry Paulson. Obama said, “It’s going to be part of the president’s job utes and discuss, perhaps feverishly, ever before, especially now that we who are undecided as to who they’ll to deal with more than one thing at once.” issues concerning foreign policy and are whittled down to the two main select on their ballots. With the last If suspending his campaign will have tangible results on working on national security. contenders. two elections ending with extremely our current pressing economic issues, then McCain is to be commended I’ve always held the televised Interest in the debates have in- close margins, every vote counts this by commiting political suicide for the people. However, he will have to presidential debates to be extremely creased over the past few years; ac- November. do a lot of explaining regarding what it is that he is actually working on in important during elections. These de- D.C. and why he couldn’t set a day aside to keep the election on track. bates allow viewers at home oppor- - Compiled by Eric Feldman, Opinion Editor tunities to watch their choices for the MCCAIN vs. OBAMA head of the Oval Offi ce meet head-to- When: When: When: head and discuss urgent topics. Sept. 26 @ 9 p.m. Oct. 7 @ 9 p.m. Oct. 15 @ 9 p.m. Granted, these debates aren’t for EST EST EST everyone, and I can understand if Backin’ Barack? you’d rather watch some reality TV Where: Where: Where: – but keep in mind most major net- University of Belmont Hofstra works will air the debate instead of Joinin’ John? Mississippi University University their usual primetime lineups. Many political analysts have not- After watching the televised debates in the coming Topic: Topic: Topic: ed the power of televised debates and weeks, let The Beacon know which candidate you Foreign Policy & Various Issues Domestic & how easily an election can swing to a National Security (Town Hall style) Economic Issues feel won. candidate because of a single fl ub or comment caught on tape. Observers Submit your letters to opinion@fi usm.com. Letters are can easily recall the 1976 Carter/Ford Debate times/dates are subject to change. debate, in which Ford said, “There limited to 300 words and may be edited for space and clarity. New games, movies have been there, done that JONATHAN DAVILA some very compelling, addictive multiplayer Life! Editor gameplay, yet it only managed to sell 60,000 units in its fi rst month – .6 percent of its in- Video games and movies are two compo- stalled base. Whenever things like this occur, nents of the entertainment business that rake producers become less inclined to take a shot in billions of dollars every year. These two at investing into a new intellectual property. forms of entertainment used to be very much It seems they’re saying to themselves, about the development of original ideas, but “Our last attempt at something origi- in recent years, it appears games and fi lms nal bombed. All right, let’s scrap that new have been slowly but surely losing their cre- idea we were working on and rush out that ative touch; these industries increasingly fi rst-person shooter sequel those teenagers churn out sequel after sequel of already es- love!” tablished intellectual properties, and we’ve “People have played like 14 games reached a point where things have begun to of “Final Fantasy.” You know it’s going become stale. to be good,” even if they change the for- The business minds of America do this mula said freshman Francois Boucicau, a for good reason. If a game or movie brings in chemistry major. “But games like ‘Infi nite the big bucks, then logically, a sequel should Undiscovery,’ people hate it because it does bring in the big bucks as well. Most of the something nontraditional. I want something time. new.” This “sequelitis” negatively affects new This isn’t the case for every new idea that

IRIS A. FEBRES / THE BEACON products released that never see success. Enough is enough. “Gears of War 2” “Gears” launched when Xbox 360 gamers may be entertaining this fall, and I’m sure Ten years from now, franchises that were hungry for “Halo 3,” and “Resistance” “Saw V” will still fi ll up seats at your local launched when the PlayStation 3 had just hit theater, but when is the next game or mov- poke our interests today will not have the the shelves and had few games to choose ie experience that completely blows you from. “Burn After Reading” and “Lakeview away with its creativity going to be made? I same appeal. Even if it is still stellar, will Terrace” have done fairly well at this time hope I can play another game as hilarious as of year, when the movie world goes into “Psychonauts,” and I hope I can see another we want to play “Soul Calibur XII” [then]? a kind of overdose after a summer full of fi lm as creative, thought provoking and sym- blockbuster hits (see: “The Dark Knight,” bolic as the original “Matrix.” “Spider-Man 3,” etc). As consumers of these products, we games and movies that release without a pre- comes out of a studio. Games like “Gears Ten years from now, franchises that poke should be concerned with the direction these vious installment. of War” and “Resistance: Fall of Man” our interests today will not have the same industries are going. Support for exception- An example from the game world is or movies like “Burn After Reading” and appeal. Even if it is still stellar, will we want al, creative games and movies needs to in- “Boom Blox,” a stellar puzzle game pub- “Lakeview Terrace” have done well in terms to play “Soul Calibur XII” at that point in crease, or else we are condemned to a future lished by Electronic Arts in collaboration of how much money they made, but these are time? Will we still be spending $10 on a in which “part twos” will dominate our en- with Steven Spielberg; the game featured not representative of the majority of quality movie ticket to see “Spider-Man 8”? tertainment markets. Contact Us Jonathan Davila Life! Editor life@fi usm.com LIFE! The Beacon – 5 www.fi usm.com September 26, 2008

Marathon committee to host annual charity event

DIANA JORDAN Guests included Florida representatives, competition, Golden Idol: a spin-off of the p.m. in the GC ballrooms and will be host- Contributing Writer as well as “miracle children,” survivors television show “American Idol” for FIU ed by last year’s winner, Adam Bolanos. who have benefi ted from the fund-raising students. During this event, students will During intermissions, morale captains - Founded on FIU’s 25th anniversary, the to thank participants for their support and be able to audition in front of judges and two leaders assigned during the marathon Dance Marathon is approaching its 11th year contribution. perform before their peers in hopes of mak- to encourage group members - will be per- of fund raising for the Miami Children’s “It’s a great opportunity for students ing it to the grand fi nale. forming line dances learned at the previous Hospital Foundation. Since its inception to come together as a school and make The event is open to anyone willing and year’s marathon. in 1997, FIU’s Dance Marathon has raised an impact on the community,” said Alina wishing to display vocal abilities in front of There will be a charge to all audience over $500,000, with 100 percent of the pro- Quintana, Dance Marathon special events live audiences. The auditions will be held members who attend and the money raised ceeds directly benefi tting the hospital and co-chair. on Oct. 1, 7 and 14 in the Graham Center will go directly to FIU Dance Marathon and its patients. This year, the Dance Marathon commit- Pit from noon to 2 p.m. the Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation. The event, which kicked off yesterday, tee is also hosting its sixth annual singing The fi nale will be held on Oct. 22 at 8 Last year alone, Golden Idol raised $3,000 has been a success due to the generosity for the foundation and even more is expect- of the FIU community. A typical Dance ed this year. Marathon includes 25 hours of non-stop “Everyone is encouraged to come out dancing in the Recreation Center. All FIU of their shell and try something different students can participate and are encouraged while helping others,” Quintana said. to bring friends and relatives for support. Golden Idol is trying to incorporate all Participants are not allowed to sit during students regardless of age or interests. This the marathon, but are permitted to partici- is a program that was created to involve pate in other activities such as basketball, students with the event in a different way. laser tag, karaoke, rock climbing and line Everyone on campus can participate, dancing. whether it is by entertaining the audience In past years, the marathon has attract- or by making a donation. ed various groups – like the Miami Heat “FIU tries to cater to all different kinds dancers, Miami Heat’s Junior Jammers of interests and needs, and this is a way to and the Florida Marlins Mermaids – that involve those students with a love for mu- have provided entertainment to those pres- sic, performing and community service,” ent. Several DJs, such as DJ Irie and DJ FERNANDO GARCIA/BEACON FILE PHOTO Quintana said. “Our main goal is to make Tracy Young, and radio stations like Radio BUST A MOVE: A group of student performers show off their moves during last year’s everyone feel welcome and a part of the Disney, have kept the crowd on its feet. Dance Marathon. Golden Panther family.” WWEEKENDEEKEND CCALENDARALENDAR FFRIDAYRIDAY • SEPTEMBERSEPTEMBER 2266 SSATURDAYATURDAY • SEPTEMBERSEPTEMBER 2277 SSUNDAYUNDAY • SEPTERMBERSEPTERMBER 2288

WHAT: SPC Hispanic Heritage Event WHAT: Anberlin Free Instore Acoustic Show WHAT: The Reclamation Project WHERE: GC Pit WHERE: Uncle Sam’s Records WHERE: Miami Science Museum WHEN: 11 a.m. WHEN: 2 p.m WHEN: 4 p.m

WHAT: SPC Movie Indiana Jones WHAT: Cheech & Chong Light up WHAT: Nightmare: Ghost Stories WHERE: GC 140 America WHERE: Soho Studios WHEN: 7 p.m WHERE: The Fillmore Miami Beach WHEN: 7 p.m WHEN: 8:00 p.m WHAT: ENGAGE Worshop “Member WHAT: Kulcha Shok Muzik Teambuilding” WHAT: Henry Rollins - Recountdown Tour WHERE: GC 314 WHERE: Jazid WHERE: Revolution Live WHEN: 10:00 p.m WHEN: 12:30 p.m WHEN: 7 p.m WHAT: Bergonzi String Quartet and WHAT: FIU Theatre Presents “The Cook” WHAT: Zumba Class Shelton G Berg Piano WHERE: Wertheim Performing Arts WHERE: Gracie’s Grill WHERE: University of Miami Gusman Center WHEN: 11 a.m Hall WHEN: 7 p.m WHEN: 4:00 p.m WHAT: Diwali Festival of Lights WHAT: Ambassadors of Rock Presents: WHAT: Henry Rollins - Recountdown WHERE: GC Ballrooms Fergie Tour WHEN: 6 p.m WHERE: Revolution Live WHERE: Hardrock Live WHEN: 7:30 p.m WHEN: 7 p.m WHAT: Think Pink Rocks Hosted By Queen Latifah WHAT: Radio Gol WHAT: “Clutch” with Special Guest “The WHERE: Mizner Park Amphitheater WHERE: Mosaic Theatre Sword, Graveyard” WHEN: 7: 30 p.m WHEN: 8:00 p.m WHERE: Arsht Center for Performing Arts WHEN: 8 p.m WHAT: Classic Albums Live Presents: The WHAT: State of the Union Doors WHERE: ArtCenter/South Florida WHAT: Democracy for America Campus WHERE: Paradise Live Gallery Corp. WHEN: 9 p.m WHEN: 2:00 p.m WHERE: GC 241 WHEN: 6 p.m WHAT: Collision Music and Art Festival WHAT: F.I.U. Theatre Presents: THE WHERE: PS14 COOK WHAT: Muslims Students Association WHEN: 9 p.m WHERE: WHERE: GC 305 Wertheim Performing Arts WHEN: 1 p.m Center WHAT: Spank Fest 3 WHEN: 7:00 p.m WHAT: Japan Club Meeting WHERE: Club Flavour WHERE: GC 343 WHEN: 5:30 p.m WHAT: Miami Spice New England WHEN: 6 p.m Clam Bake at Oceanaire WHAT: TNA Wrestling WHERE: Oceanaire Seafood Room WHAT: Fracture at the White Room WHERE: Bank United Center WHEN: 5:00 p.m WHERE: White Room WHEN: 10 p.m WHEN: 8:00 p.m

Compiled by Rosalyn Delgado 6 www.ﬁ usm.com LIFE! The Beacon – September 26, 2008

REVIEWS (YOU CAN USE) ROCKING THE VOTE

CD Cold War Kids - Loyalty to Loyalty Disappointing follow-up to a promising beginning

CHRIS TOWERS We want little governments” on the album’s Asst. Life! Editor opener “Against Privacy.” Maybe this can be chalked up to Willett With the release of their debut album, Rob- buying into the hype a little bit too much, trying bers and Cowards, the Cold War Kids faced to take his lyrics to another level, but with the criticism of being overly serious, amateurish exception of the fi rst single “Something Is Not and heavy handed. Right With Me,” there are no lyrics that really Lead singer Nathan Willett was roundly jump out and grab you like they did consistently accused of too much white guy soul posturing on the fi rst album. in his pained, screamy vocals and telling stories Perhaps the most glaring issue on this album about death row and army hospitals. is its lack of restraint and, in this, Willett isn’t The critics were an album early, it seems. the only guilty one. On their sophomore album, Loyalty to Loy- Guitarist Johnnie Russell, apparently alty, the Fullerton, California four-piece fi nds unhappy with the complementary role he them steering away from what worked on the had, decides to try to steal center stage early fi rst album. on, jamming as many notes into the fi rst three RICK MARTINEZ/FIUSM.COM Instead of building on previous successes, songs as possible, rendering them so sloppy and the band seems to try and prove critics wrong overfi lled to be borderline unlistenable. POLITICALLY AWARE: Rachel Amezcua, a freshman biology major, fi lls out a voter by attempting to build on the things that didn’t The rhythm section fi nds itself overplaying registration form in the Graham Center on Wednesday, Sept. 24. work the fi rst time around. far too often as well. Instead of laying back in the song providing a strong backbone, they decide For instance, many decried the Christian maturity to it that was rare for a band so young Loyalty ultimately fails because it tries too to try to create a groove in every single song, undertones in many of their songs and found and, with this album, they have taken numerous hard. Possibly, in order to make up for subpar never relenting. some of the morality tales in them a bit ham- steps back. songwriting, the band fi nds itself overplaying to And, back to Willett, his shouting manages fi sted. What made “Hang Me Up To Dry” such a try and cover it up. to kill any vocal melody he may have written Songs from the debut like “Hospital Beds” refreshing surprise hit last summer was how Many bands struggle to deal with expecta- into the songs on the album and hides whatever or “Saint John” told coherent, blues style stories catchy it was while still managing to sound tions and move forward on during the second potential it may hold. It isn’t soul if every song, about good people down on their luck, searching rough and raw. It was dripping with pop hooks album, but this isn’t the case with this one. They regardless of subject matter, sounds like it is for some semblance of salvation in a world that while still maintaining a starkness that is rare for haven’t stayed in the same place for their new going to kill you. has turned on them. a pop song of that caliber.Unfortunately, there is one, they just haven’t moved forward. If it sounds like I am piling on a bit much, On the other hand, songs on the new album nothing on this new album that can even come Sometimes, repeating yourself is better than it’s because I am pretty genuinely disappointed trade this in for Thom Yorke aping non-sequiturs close to the quality or uniqueness of that song. failing in a new way. and vague imagery, like “Forget ex-girlfriends/ in this album. The debut had a stark beauty and

GAME Spore From bacteria to being

KEVIN CASTRO typical real-time strategy game, you control Staff Writer multiple creatures and have them hunt, gath- er and grow. As you befriend other tribes, or For the past three years, Will Wright, hunt them down to extinction, you are given creator of “The Sims”, has been enticing the access to better weapons, musical instru- entire PC gaming community with what was ments, clothing and control of more tribe held as the most ambitious and innovative members. game project ever. “Spore” is supposed to It is a near impossibility to win as a simulate the evolution of life itself - the pro- peace-loving herbivore in this stage, be- gression of a species from a bacterial cell to cause whereas you did not invest time into its foundation of a galactic empire. weapons and powerful creatures, there are Did it succeed? No, not by a long shot. many surrounding tribes who did. The reason “Spore” fails to deliver the tran- As expected, the civilization stage plays scendental life simulator we were promised like the usual “Civilization” RTS, in which is because it tries to be fi ve games at once. you control cities in order to build mon- Each one of these games is a shallower and ey, culture or weapons. Again, I chose the simpler version of another game. latter. You start life as a cell. As your cell con- You are fi nally the only remaining spe- sumes either other cells or plants, it grows cies, but there is some hatred within your and eventually evolves. Evolving gains your own surviving species. Therefore, your goal character a new weapon or makes it faster. is to take control of all the other cities, buy This stage of the game plays like a 2-D ar- them or religiously infl uence them. cade title. After your cell has grown large The entire game feels like an introduc- enough, it sprouts some legs and takes to tion to the space stage: the juicy pie wait- land. ing for you at home after a day of boredom The only problem with the cell stage is at the offi ce. This stage plays like a single- that it is extremely short, and like the rest of player, massively multi-player online role- the game, it is overly simplistic. playing game (yes, you read correctly). As a creature, your goal is to either be- Here, you are granted every godly power friend the other species on your world or you ever dreamed of: from terraforming and eradicate them; I chose the latter. This stage colonization, to abduction, exploration and mimics a third-person action game as you even galactic warfare. However, it does get control a single creature to hunt or scavenge a bit repetitive and boring. for food. This stage is also the last chance To sum up, if you are a casual gamer, you have to evolve your creature because then you will love this game. But if you are you cannot do so in later stages. This is the the hardcore gamer that demands a com- most enjoyable part of the game. pelling storyline, fulfi lling gameplay and Your species then decides to fi nally set- a game that doesn’t treat you like an idiot, tle down and form a tribal village. Like a then don’t even bother playing Spore. www.fi usm.com SPORTS The Beacon – September 26, 2008 7 Working the waiver wire necessary for fantasy sucess

JONATHAN ALPERT line back, and has passed rookie Ray Rice on Asst. Sports Director the depth chart. The Ravens play hard nose football, and with Can you believe a quarter of the NFL has Rookie Joe Flacco at quarterback, they want to passed by? Three weeks have zoomed by, and run the ball in red zone situations. Even though after this Sunday, we will be able to fi gure out Willis McGahee is almost 100%, the Ravens who the contenders and the pretenders are. want to bring him along slowly, and McClain Fantasy Football starts to get a little bit trick- will still be heavily relied on in the Ravens sim- ier, with teams getting by weeks. Tinkering with plifi ed offense. FERNANDO GARCIA/THE BEACON the your lineups and scouring the waiver wire Steve Slaton: RB, Houston Texans- Recently STARTLING SCENE: USF linebacker Brouce Mompremier is attended to in the second becomes very important from here on out. named the starting running back of the Houston half of the game vs. FIU Sept. 20th. Both teams met at midfi eld for a silent moment. The Lions, Colts, Dolphins, Patriots, Giants, Texans, Slaton is used to carrying the offense, and Seahawks have byes this week, putting as he did at West Virginia, and with the Texans some fantasy owners in precarious situations. passing game not in sync yet, look for Slaton to FIU fans still a long way Don’t be discouraged if your team hasn’t keep in improving on his performance the previ- performed up to standard, and some superstars ous week. A workhorse running back like Slaton haven’t lived up to expectations. Randy Moss, only gets better as the season progresses. from being respectable Chad Ocho Cinco, Derek Anderson, Braylon PLAYERS YOU CAN DROP Edwards, Andre Johnson, Carlos Palmer are some of the players owners were counting on Ahman Green: RB, Texans- Slaton is the a neck injury, a very serious fi nish. The Golden Panthers ometimes someone or who haven’t come through with big games this S affair that can affect the spine, scored nine points in the 4th a group of people just don’t year. paramedics were rushed to quarter to close the gap and fi t in. Jay Cutler, Julius Jones, and Dwayne Bowe the fi eld as Mompremier get themselves in the game, Whether it’s a short per- are some players that have fantasy owners jump- could not get up. but some fans felt the need to son in a tall crowd or some- ing for joy with their excellent performances. This is where FIU fans exit the stadium minutes be- one who looks and talks the I’m not going to tell you who to start and come in. fore the game was over. part but cannot perform the who to sit this week, I’m going to tell you who During the na- same way, there is always that BUILDING to be ok with releasing, and which players, if tional television awkward hole in society. COMMENTARY they are still out there, to pick up, because their broadcast, fans With all of the In this society, leave it to production will only increase. were heard yelling embarrassment I FIU football fans to volun- chants of obscenity mentioned, students PLAYERS TO PICK UP teer for the part of scum of mocking the fallen should remember the football sub-division fan Pierre Thomas: RB, New Orleans Saints- Mompremier. this and learn what base. This touchdown machine has become the “thun- Rivals.com re- being a fan is. There are 119 teams in the der” to Reggie Bush’s “Lightning”. He doesn’t ported that ESPNU I don’t mean sub-division, and though the muster up a lot of yardage, but consider starting analyst Charles JONATHAN to bring down ev- FIU football team came into him if you have an opening because of the bye Arbuckle, who cov- RAMOS ery FIU fan in the the season ranked last, they week. ered the game, pro- building, because I HOTO REDIT HE EACON might be last in quality of He is owned in less than 30% percent of P C /T B ceeded to blast fans did see encourag- fans as well. leagues, and has a favorable matchup against FANTASY FOCUS: (From left to on the air for being classless. ing things at the game. There If the brawl on the fi eld the 49ers defense this week. right, top to bottom): Campbell, Luckily, the incident was were people who stayed with the University of Miami Antonio Bryant: WR Tampa Bay Green, Anderson and Slaton. not blown up in the national civilized, cheered the team in 2006 is still fresh in peo- Buccaneers- With Brian Griese now at quarter- media the next day due to throughout, and remained ple’s minds, then the Golden back, the Bucs are starting the spread the ball FIU’s lack of relevance in the silent during Mompremier’s Panther beloved did not fail around, Griese threw the ball 67 times last week, starter, Green is over the hill, he hasn’t been NCAA scene, but it did leave scary moment. to disappoint critics and fur- and Bryant benefi ted catching 10 passes for 138 healthy since his days in Green Bay, and time a stain on a very well played Those people do not de- ther damage the already frag- yards against a tough Bears defense. has come for the Texans to give up on their prize game by FIU’s up and com- serve the reputation, but a ile reputation the team had. Joey Galloway is injured, what else is new, free agent pickup from only a few seasons ago. ing team. fan-base as a whole takes on Though the infamous and Ike Hilliard cannot stretch the fi eld. Jeff Garcia: QB, Tampa Bay Bucs- Griese The overall group of the identity of the indiscre- brawl and the loss of schol- Look for Bryant to separate himself as the will continue to be the starter as long as he con- people associated with FIU tions of the few. arships due to failed require- number one receiver for the Bucs, who will con- tinues to have success with the previously stag- failed to support the Golden With the stadium only ments in the summer was be- tinue to throw it all over the fi eld in a shootout nant Tampa Offense. Panthers as much as they in Phase I of its building tween players, fans now had with the Packers on Sunday. Its not worth having Garcia on your bench, could as well. process, and the team just their time on television to dis- Jason Campbell: QB, Washington look to pick up JT O’Sullivan or Jason Campbell With an attendance fi gure scratching the surface of col- gust their audience during the Redskins- If Campbell is still a free agent in as replacements. reported at 16,717, the fans lege football, there can only Sept. 20th meeting at home your league, snatch him up ASAP. Santana Derek Anderson: QB, Cleveland Browns- failed to fi ll up the building, be improvement from the against South Florida. Moss looks like his old self and his yard after Owners are tired of waiting for Anderson to which holds 18,000. team, which is clearly headed catch ability is incredible. show up, and so is the Browns front offi ce. in the right direction. NO CLASS Once again leave it to FIU Antwaan Randle-El is a viable number two, Brady Quinn will be starter by week 8. But the Community sur- For those fans in the fans to leave seats empty on and with Chris Cooley at tight end and a healthy If you have an extra spot on your roster, it rounding the team is the big stands who did not notice the a perfect Saturday afternoon Clinton Portis running the ball, Campbell will might not be a bad idea to pick up Quinn and concern to me. classless act of a few hundred in a brand new stadium that fl ourish. wait for him to be the starter and do well. Coach Mario Cristobal people in the student section, has been advertised since the He is a viable starter if your having problems seems to be building his slo- here it is. summer. at quarterback. The most encouraging stat for If you have any fantasy football questions or gan, a strong foundation, but During the third quarter With over 30,000 FIU Campbell is that he hasn’t thrown an intercep- comments, feel free to email me at Jonathan. if the fans don’t learn to be a of the of the home opener, fans overall in the schools da- tion yet this season. Alpert@fi usm.com and listen to Panther Sports part of it, it is hard to see the Bulls linebacker Brouce tabase, over 100,000 alumni, Le’ron McClain: RB, Baltimore Ravens- Talk Live, Tuesdays an Thursdays noon-1 on radi- motto taking shape. ate fm and streaming online at www.FIUSM.com Mompremier collided with and help from a couple of McClain is clearly the Ravens number one goal If things do not change -- a teammate in a hit in which thousand USF fans, FIU sta- well, FIU fans will just con- the player endured an awk- dium could not be packed. tinue to be viewed as that ward fall and did not react af- On top of that, people group that just can’t fi t in. Do you like Bird Tire terward. In what seemed like could not even stay the whole sports? 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Completely Remodeled, pool, gym, Sauna, Laundry on Specials Any Stainless Mufl er for Pipe, & Chrome Tips WUC 124 (Good only for a limited time) Import Cars Starting @ $195.95 site. Frank 786-262-5520 Contact Us Andrew Julian Sports Director andrew.julian@fi usm.com SPORTS The Beacon – 8 www.fi usm.com September 26, 2008 ROCKET TRIP FIU off ense tries to get going versus Toledo defense LUCA MESSINA McCall was 8-of-13 for 46 Asst. Sports Director yards and had a costly interception in the third quarter that The Golden Panthers are prompted the switch. through with both the hoopla sur- The Rockets present a far less rounding the debut of their brand intimidating challenge than the new on-campus stadium and the Golden Panthers’ three previ- 17-9 loss against No. 13 ranked ous opponents but are certainly South Florida. capable of blowing this game With an 0-3 record, FIU’s at- out of proportion if it is one of tention now shifts to the Toledo those typical games for FIU in Rockets (1-2) who are thirsty for which the offense is consistent- a victory after also falling just ly thwarted and the defense is short of upset of their own against overworked. No. 25 ranked Fresno State. Junior quarterback Aaron The Rockets will look to re- Opelt had a fine performance in cord their first home victory the 55-54 overtime loss to Fresno VICTORIA LYNCH/THE BEACON against the Golden Panthers in State as he finished 22-of-41 for the first meeting between the two 265 yards with three touchdowns STILL SEARCHING: Wide Receriver T.Y Hilton, left, and linebacker Armond Willis, right, will look to get a fi rst schools. thrown while rushing for one win for FIU. After sophomore quarterback to account for the Rockets first Wayne Younger replaced junior overtime score. 2 touchdowns, one of which oc- involved if either quarterback can far less than their previous three Paul McCall in the fourth quarter On the season, he has thrown curred in overtime. get into a passing rhythm. opponents. against South Florida and was re- 7 touchdown passes and just one The FIU offense this week will For the second time this sea- While the Toledo’s offense sponsible for setting up the Golden interception. be dealing with a defense that son, Golden Panther offensive is without question better, de- Panthers first offensive touch- Opelt is the center piece is certainly less overpowering coordinator Bill Legg will have fensively, the Rockets are only down, it was once again the topic of an offense that is currently than the likes of both the Kansas experience against FIU’s oppo- ranked 13 spots ahead of the of conversation as to whether or ranked 50th in the Football Bowl Jayhawks and Iowa Hawkeyes. nent as his former employer, the Golden not head coach Mario Cristobal Subdivision and has averaged 37 The Rockets’ defense is ranked Purdue Boilermakers, faced the If the FIU offense puts up a would finally name Younger the points and 396 yards per game. 78th and has allowed opposing Rockets last season in a game in tolerable performance and the starter after three games. Their rushing offense is ranked offenses to average 379 yards and which Purdue dominated Toledo defense plays the way they did As of Sept. 23, there was 25th while their passing offense is 14 touchdowns but this will be- 52-24. against a very sound USF offense, no word as to whether or not ranked 79th. come a moot point if the FIU of- Legg’s 2007 Purdue team de- FIU pullout a win. Cristobal had made the decision. Complementing Oplet is ju- fense is nonexistent. feated the Iowa Hawkeyes but Playing on the road has always Younger finished just 3-of-7 nior running back DaJuane Regardless of who is behind that success was a non-issue been a challenge for FIU; they but showed both his speed and Collins who has 360 yards on 44 the center on Sept. 27, the Golden when the Golden Panthers faced have yet to win on the road in the his arm strength on a key 61-yard carries with 4 touchdowns on the Panthers will need to put the ball the Hawkeyes on Sept. 7th in a Football Bowl Subdivision. pass to freshman T.Y. Hilton that ground. in the hands of those who have 42-0 loss. The Glass Bowl, however, has left FIU’s offense at USF’s own The Golden Panthers should proven themselves thus far this In any event, Legg’s experi- not historically been one of the 1-yard line. also be wary of both senior tight season. ence against this week’s opponent more challenging venues to play Several plays later, the Golden end John Allen and junior wide T.Y. Hilton, sophomore can be viewed as somewhat of an in. Panthers recorded their first of- receiver Stephen Williams. Marquis Rolle, and senior tight advantage. The determining factor will be fensive score on a 1-yard run Allen was particularly reliable end Eric Kirchenberg have all The Golden Panthers match the Golden Panther offense and by senior running back Julian last week for the Rockets as he been contributors for this offense up better with the Rockets be- the outcome of the game will de- Reams. had 8 receptions for 93 yards and and it will be essential to get them cause the discrepancy in talent is pend heavily on it. Golden Panthers look to rebound when conference play begins

JONATHAN ALPERT Both losses come after the Golden ous team in Sunbelt play. Asst. Sports Director Panthers won 10 or their first 11 Junior outside hitter Yarimar Rosa contests and were on the verge of is coming off back-to-back Sun Belt The FIU Women’s volleyball team a possible national ranking. The Conference player of the week awards begins conference play at home this Golden Panthers were set back at the and is leading the nation in kills per weekend hosting South Alabama (6- invitational. set. 2) on Friday at 7 p.m. and Troy (9-6) FIU’s aspiration of winning the The last player to earn back-to- on Saturday at 7 p.m. at FIU arena. Sun Belt tournament and getting into back honors is Megan Argabright of They return home after suffer- the NCAA tourney relies heavily on Western Kentucky during October of ing back-to-back losses for the first starting their conference schedule on the 2006 season. time this season at the UAB/Samford a positive note. Rosa had at least 20 kills in all Invitational. With winning records, both Troy three matches this weekend. The Golden Panthers have gotten and South alabama pose a formidable Junior Isador Rangel set a career off to great start with an impressive challenge for the Golden Panthers, high in kills with 15 and freshman record of 10 wins and 3 losses. who currently lead the Sun-Belt. Natalie Valentin led all players with FIU will look to rebound from Even though FIU is coming off of a career high 55 assists in the loss to VICTORIA LYNCH/THE BEACON back-to-back losses for the first time the consecutive losses, they have the Memphis. GO HARD: Libero Mariana Drumeva makes a play during this season. makeup and potential to be a danger- a home game this season. FIU has a 10-3 record thus far.