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7-8-2009 The Beacon, July 8, 2009 Florida International University

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This work is brought to you for free and open access by the Special Collections and University Archives at FIU Digital Commons. It has been accepted for inclusion in The aP nther Press (formerly The Beacon) by an authorized administrator of FIU Digital Commons. For more information, please contact [email protected]. A Forum for Free Student Expression at Florida International University Vol. 22, Issue 3 www.fi usm.com Wednesday, July 8, 2009 BButterflutterfl y ggardenarden ssetet ttoo Isiah Thomas recruits six bbringring bbeautyeauty ttoo ccampusampus players this season PAGE 3 PAGE 8

SPOTLIGHT AT THE BAY PAGE 3 Public Safety: Robbery no cause for alarm With SGC-BBC funds, a new but- terfl y garden is set to bring beauty to campus. JORGE VALENS body to the possible dangers of being The incident was made known in Campuses. Asst. News Director on campus during off-hours. a report on the late night edition of a However, Lieutenant Ricardo EDITORIAL PAGE 4 “I was lulled into a false sense of CBS4 newscast. And the following Torres, the University Public Safety College of Law graduate Derrick security,” said Storms in a written state- day, the channel's "I-Team" broke the offi cer in charge of the investigation, Storms was robbed at gunpoint by two ment to Student Media. story that students in the University said in an interview with Student Media minors who took his laptop outside the According to him, as he sat in the were “surprised” that the Universi- that the decision not to alert the campus Green Library on June 29. tables outside GL at 4:30 a.m. on ty's Public Safety failed to inform the was made after apprehending one According to FIU Public Safety, Monday, two minors approached him; community about the dangers in and suspect and knowing that the second At the end of the day, campus they chose to not use the Universi- one held their bikes while the other held around campus. suspect had fl ed the campus. safety boils down to awareness, ty’s emergency alert system that night Storms at gunpoint and demanded his The University has an alert system In the same CBS4 article, it is precaution and common sense. because students weren’t in danger; belongings. that can notify students of an emer- mentioned that campus police arrested OPINION PAGE 4 one suspect was apprehended and the Storms called Public Safety minutes gency through text message, e-mail a student in May after discovering he The GOP must redefi ne its image and other was outside the campus already. later. Public Safety, working with and broadcast devices placed in large had a semi-automatic weapon and 110 stances on social issues in order to Storms said that Public Safety was the Sweetwater Police Department, traffi c areas and classrooms in both the attract independent voters. negligent in not alerting the student arrested both suspects shortly after. Modesto Maidique and Biscayne Bay POLICE, page 2 OPINION PAGE 4 SGC-MMC BROMANCE Outdated

Can CNN rely on Twitter as a news source? bylaws raise

OPINION PAGE 4 The GOP must redefi ne its image concerns in and stances on social issues in order to attract independent voters. LIFE! PAGE 5 council Cheap party ideas for students on a budget valuable during recession. FRANCISCO MARADIAGA SPORTS PAGE 8 Staff Writer Three years removed from playing for the University of Miami, tennis Concerns over outdated bylaws, the coach Melissa Applebaum is build- lack of printed additions and the absence ing FIU’s program. of a written description of some of the student government committees' respon- UPCOMING EVENTS sibilities worried members of the Student Dive-In Movies, July 8, 7 p.m. A free Government Council's judiciary branch. screening of a recently released fi lm will The issues were addressed during a be shown free to swimmers of José Martí June 29 SGC-MMC senate meeting. Park pool. The lack of an updated set of bylaws, John Legend, July 9, 07:30 p.m. The CHRIS GREEN/THE BEACON which is a set of campus-specifi c policies performer will be playing at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino; tickets to the RECRUITMENT: David Dial, Gerald Young, Max Schmekel and Justin de Jesus of Delta Lambda and procedures that govern how SGC- event start at $38. Phi interact during Rush Week in Graham Center. MMC is to run, has created a confl ict TattooLaPalooza, July10-12, 12 p.m. A between how the senate currently oper- weekend fi lled with tattoos, motorcycles ates and how the document states the body and art; tickets to get in are $15. Event should operate. runs until midnight except sunday at 9p.m. “Today I am forced to highlight the Yasumicon 2009, July 11-12, 12 p.m. Program cries foul over numbers fact that the resolution passed on June Entrance is free to this Anime convention held in our very own Graham Center and 1, in support of the Religious Studies Green Library. JULIO MENACHE majors and 40 enrolled intended as well as 20 who have applied for Department, is lacking a written copy of Staff Writer majors. the Fall semester, but have their the Senate Speed Pass Act that permits its WEATHER According to the numbers applications under review. legal force,” said Luis Robayo, justice for Wolff found using a query from SGC-MMC when reading an e-mail sent WEDNESDAY The numbers used to justify REORGANIZATION Isolated T-Storms the possible closing of the Recre- Panthersoft, the program has, as of by Chief Justice Juan Gil, who wasn't LOW: 79 HIGH: 92 ational Sport Management degree June 25, 93 students fully admitted Wolff said he sees recent present at the meeting. THURSDAY were inaccurate and “outdated,” for this Summer term, as well as measures taken by his major degree As the procedures are currently written Scattered T-Storms according to program head Robert 14 students who were admitted program as part of the reason for in Article 11 of the bylaws, a bill or resolu- LOW: 79 HIGH: 89 Wolff. but have not been placed in the the incorrect numbers. tion needs to be read twice, at two separate FRIDAY “We changed our curriculum senate meetings, in order to be passed. Scattered T-Storms Wolff claimed that the degree program yet. LOW: 79 HIGH: 90 program, which was saved from In addition to the discrepan- substantially last year,” he said. “We However, the Senate Speed Pass Act, being cut in the last Board of cies in the numbers for their under- raised caps, we got rid of excess which was approved Spring 2009, allows Trustees meeting in June, is esti- graduate students, Wolff said that courses, we lowered the number of bills or resolutions to pass with only one CONTACTS mated to have 189 undergrad- as of June 25, the Recreational adjuncts that were teaching ... Most reading. Editor in Chief ...... 305-348-1580 uate students, instead of the 62 Sport Management program has 31 of the professors took on a heavier The way the Religious Studies reso- chris.necuze@fi usm.com load to try and meet these budget lution was approved fi ts the procedural MMC Offi ce ...... 305-348-2709 students that were reported by students, not 19 as reported by the news@fi usm.com Interim Provost Doug Wartzok at provost in the same meeting. woes that we’re having within the model under the Senate Speed Pass Act, BBC Offi ce ...... 305-919-4722 the meeting. Wolff also found that there University.” but is in violation of the printed laws. bbc@fi usm.com “I knew that was way off,” were seven graduate students who In addition, last summer, the ”You can't make null and void what Tips & Corrections ...... 305-348-2709 are taking graduate courses or are Parks and Recreational Manage- they've passed last year,” said Robayo. tips@fi usm.com Wolff said. Wartzok told the BOT that the looking to change their major to Advertising ...... 305-348-6994 NUMBERS, page 2 BYLAWS, page 2 advertising@fi usm.com degree program had 62 enrolled Recreational Sport Management, 2 The Beacon – Wednesday, July 8, 2009 NEWS www.fi usm.com

NEWS FLASH Grad student robbed at gunpoint FIU POLICE, page 1 the log is kept as up to date as possible. PantherSoft: view only mode until July 12 At the time this article was written, the SAFETY TIPS rounds of ammunition in his car. case log had been updated to include all In an interview with the University's cases up to June 30. • Carry only the amount of cash or The PantherSoft Financials system is down for credit cards that you need. upgrade and maintenance and unavailable through Offi ce of Media Relations, Torres reit- Storms, however, thinks that Public erated that in that situation there was no Safety should take further action to alert • Carry money and identifi cation July 12. separately. The system is being upgraded to version 9.0 and, threat to the general campus population. students of crimes, or the possibility of The weapon and ammunition were discov- crime on campus. • Eliminate spare keys from purse. according to its Web site, will also include the Panther- • Keep your bag on your lap when soft Contracts and Grants version 9. ered during a routine traffi c stop. “I feel students should know of the In both instances, Public Safety told propensity of violent crimes committed at dining or at meetings. The current version of the software, version 8.4, will • Avoid displaying valuables such be available in a “view only” mode. the University that there was no need to FIU, so they can avoid the plight I recently activate the emergency systems. went through,” Storms said. as jewelry or large sums of According to the press release from PantherSoft, money. any “emergency procedures on processing transactions “No students were ever in danger in “We take every incident seriously and either incident,” Torres said in the same will use appropriate measures to respond • Be aware of where you are and related to Accounts Payable, Purchasing and Travel” where you are going at all times. can be handled through a separate site. interview. “In both cases, FIU police to each emergency,” said Torres. “Our reacted quickly and kept the situation community policing, around the clock • Look for potential danger before The scheduled downtime will not affect the Pan- entering your house/dorm. therSoft Campus Solutions, the student version of the from affecting the rest of the Univer- patrols and our emergency training keep sity. Students, faculty and staff are safe. this University safe.” • Do not walk alone, especially in system. deserted or dark areas. The new version of the Web site will be available Fortunately, incidents such as these are Torres said that the University is a safe extremely rare on our campuses.” place, but also an open place and therefore • Get to know the campus locations July 13. and its hours. Both instructor-led and online training for the new Storms said that students should be susceptible to outsiders. According to the made aware of the various crimes that Public Safety Web site, police offi cers are • If you think someone is following system will be available on the PantherSoft Web site at you, change directions or go to a http://panthersoft.fi u.edu/fi nancials. occur on campus. in patrol 24 hours in both campuses. “I feel that the crimes [occurring] on safe location. campus are not being advertised,” he said. The University Police Department is • Avoid carrying a lot of packages, LOCAL The CBS4 article noted that the case located in the Tower building on Modesto it can make you look defense- log University police keep online had “not Maidique Campus and at the SO II less. Accused cat killer’s affi davit released been updated since late May." building on Biscayne Bay Campus. • When using the ATM, retrieve Torres told Student Media that Public For emergencies call 911 or UP (305) money and count it later. Tyler Weinman pleaded not guilty to all 19 counts of Safety is “making strides” to ensure that 348-5911, BBC (305) 919-5911. animal cruelty and improperly disposing of an animal body and four counts of burglary related to the cat deaths. The affi davit recently released stated that police offi - New senate to work on council bills cers found a cutting object outside his car after stopping him to search his car. They also found marijuana and BYLAWS, page 1 “I have all that legislation,” Ramirez lack of stated responsibilities for four scratches on Weinman’s neck. said. out of fi ve senate committees. The suspect’s attorney, however, said that “there’s “For whatever reason [the Senate Speed Ramirez stepped in last year as These four are new to the legisla- not one single witness in there that says Tyler Weinman Pass Act] did not pass in its written speaker pro-tempe when her prede- tive branch, written in the constitution, touched a cat.” form. It is still there though; there is cessor resigned. As a result, she said, but given no defi nition of their func- still recorded document of this.” the former speaker didn't specifi cally tion. So the June 29 senate meeting was – Compiled by Jorge Valens and Julia Cardenuto The fact that there was a recorded give her copies of all legislations. She adjourned quickly, with no new busi- document was a point of contention called Roseme after receiving Gil's ness, to give the senators time to get according to the chief justice's e-mail. e-mail. together in their committees and come Robayo read passages that recalled “It was in the offi ce, under a lot of up with their responsibilities. Gil's conclusion that the Senate Speed piles of work,” Ramirez said. “These defi nitions and responsibil- Pass Act was in fact in possession of no This hasn’t been the only time Gil ities will be then used to have those one in the current administration. has raised issues with the bylaws. At senators write them into council bills,” E-BOARD AND PRODUCTION STAFF “The Senate Speed Pass Act is not a senate meeting June 15, the chief said Ramirez in an e-mail. included in the current written copies EDITOR IN CHIEF ASST. SPORTS DIRECTORS justice told the senate that the avail- The council bills will then be voted CHRISTOPHER NECUZE JONATHAN RAMOS, CHRIS TOWERS of senate bylaws available at the SGA able written version of the bylaws had upon, and if passed will become the offi ce; nor is it in possession of any of peripheral commentary and that was edits to the bylaws. According to PRODUCTION MANAGER the senators, including the speaker and HOTO DITOR unprofessional. Ramirez, a draft of the updated bylaws CHRIS ADAMS BBC P E SERGIO MONTEALEGRE the speaker pro-tempe; nor in the hands These comments are dotted around will be available in two weeks. COPY CHIEF of the SGA advisor Jose Toscano,” said the document pointing out vagaries, “The whole history of American the e-mail. PAULA GARCIA PAGE DESIGNERS and give suggestions for the bylaws. government was founded upon a written JESSICA MAYA, ANGIE ESPOSITO, According to the e-mail, when the An informal meeting was called at document – the Constitution,” Gil said NEWS DIRECTOR JASMYN ELLIOTT, CHARLES GRAU chief justice confronted senate Speaker the start of the new administration to through the e-mail. “Laws must be JULIA CARDENUTO Helena Ramirez, he was told it was in look over the bylaws. Ramirez said it written in order to be accessible to the BBC MANAGING EDITOR the hands of the former Speaker Jean COPY EDITORS was only a primary look-through for public.” PAMELA DUQUE ASHLYN TOLEDO, STEPHANIE PI, Roseme. grammar and syntax. Copies of the current bylaws and LIFE! EDITOR ERIKA PEREZ, CARLA GARCIA, “According to your current speaker, “It was just mainly to edit,” Ramirez SGA constitution are not currently CHRIS CABRAL CHELSEA FRANCO Helena Ramirez, it is in his e-mail. The said. “To see what was necessary.” online, but are available at the SGA SPORTS DIRECTOR resolution is lost in cyberspace,” Gil One of those necessities were the offi ce in GC 221. SERGIO BONILLA said in the e-mail. RECRUITMENT DIRECTOR OPINION EDITOR ROSALYN DELGADO IRIS FEBRES Provost revisits previous numbers PHOTO EDITOR BUSINESS MANAGER ALEX GARCIA TATIANA CANTILLO program benefi ts various groups and Recreation and Sports Management ASST. NEWS DIRECTORS NUMBERS, page 1 DIRECTOR OF STUDENT MEDIA JORGE VALENS, DAIANA KUCAWCA individuals, such as professional teams program has somewhat less than half ROBERT JAROSS ment degree program, as well as the Phys- like the Miami Heat and Florida Marlins, as many majors as the average bache- ASST. LIFE EDITORS ical Education/ Sport Management degree who hire interns from the program as lor’s degree program,” said Wartzok in a ASST. DIRECTOR OF STUDENT MEDIA RACHAEL CONGDON program merged to form the Recreational well as FIU Athletics. recent e-mail to Student Media. ALFRED SOTO Sport Management program. Before the “We put about 15 interns into Yet Wartzok would not speculate merger, both programs had classes that Athletics every semester,” said Wolff. whether the program would be cut in overlapped and professors who would “Those are kids who are not getting paid the Fall, when the BOT will meet again INFORMATION teach both majors. and providing a service to our athletic to determine the future of many of the “They said our combined number of program.” programs that are being considered to be The Beacon is published on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays during the Fall graduates, both bachelor’s and master’s, After it was announced that the Recre- cut. and Spring semesters and once a week during Summer B. One copy per person. Additional copies are 25 cents. The Beacon is not responsible for the content of ads. were nine each year,” Wolff said. “Well, ational Sport Management program was “We are following the direction of Ad content is the sole responsibility of the company or vendor. The Beacon is an that was true of Parks and Recreation, going to be cut, Wolff contacted Wartzok, the BOT and looking at other ways of editorially independent newspaper partially funded by student and services fees that now that we merged, our numbers were who said that even with the new numbers, cutting expenses,” Wolff said. “The BOT are appropriated by Student Government. 41 undergraduates and nine graduate the program still falls short of the Univer- expects us to consider all alternatives and The Beacon offi ce is located in the Graham Center, room 210, at the Univer- sity Park campus. Questions regarding display advertising and billing should be students. They didn’t include the 2008- sity average for degree programs. then make a recommendation to them directed to the Advertising Manager at 305-348-2709. Mailing address: Graham 2009 graduation numbers ... Pretty big “As I stated at the BOT meeting, on sometime this fall. Center, room 210, Miami, FL 33199. Fax number is 305-348-2712. Biscayne Bay difference between a total of nine and a average, a bachelor’s degree program at “It would be premature to speculate

Campus is 305-919-4722. Offi ce hours are 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through total 50.” FIU has 200 majors. We do not include what that recommendation will be until Friday. E-mail: Beacon@fi u.edu. Visit us online at: www.fi usm.com Wolff also pointed out that the intended majors in that count, so the we have considered alternatives.” Contact Us Pamela Duque BBC Managing Editor pamela.duque@fi usm.com AT THE BAY The Beacon – 3 www.fi usm.com Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Butterfl y garden project ENJOYING THE SILENCE enhances go-green eff ort

JOSHIMAR GARCIA Provost, Offi ce of Campus and anthropology; Joyce Staff Writer Life and Orientation and Peterson, associate dean SGC-BBC. of Arts and Sciences; Elie The Biscayne Bay Campus “BBC cares about its envi- Bardawil, director of Campus has been going green for the ronment and the numerous Recreation and Michael past years, adding trees, recy- animals that inhabit it,” Neis- Heithaus, assistant professor cling bins and cleaning the tein said. and director of the Marine bay, but its latest endeavor The project is scheduled Sciences program. promises something new. “This project will inspire The goal is to create a vibrant aca- environmental awareness around campus and the demic life that incorporates BBC’s University as a whole,” said unique settings. Sholom Neistein, president of Julissa Castellanos, director of academic support services the BBC Student Government Offi ce of the Vice Provost Council. “We also want to be known as one of the most environmentally friendly to be completed by the end of “The goal was to create campuses around the country, this year. a thematic focus around a Grechent Ampie, junior coastal and environmental and maybe in the global SERGIO MONTEALEGRE/THE BEACON biology major, says having a initiative that could help community.” RELAXING RUB: Shari Little gives a free massage to Nadia Monteago, a senior enroll- SGC-BBC allocated butterfl y garden will benefi t to unite the campus,” said the campus. Peterson. “We wanted to focus ment offi cer in the Offi ce of Undergraduate Admissions, on June 6 outside the Recreation $5,000 for a butterfl y garden, Center. The Wellness Center offers free massages on Mondays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. which was proposed by “The addition of a butterfl y on the academic, aesthetic the Offi ce of the BBC Vice garden in BBC would and recreational opportuni- completely recreate the envi- ties offered by our location on Provost. The butterfl y garden lanos said. biology studies. these projects came from ronmental structure. It would Biscayne Bay.” will be located next to the Projects that are already “The marked nature trail the Janes Trust Foundation, defi nitely attract new species, The committee wanted walkway that connects the underway include restoring is a great benefi t to biology the BBC Circle of Friends, other than the butterfl ies, to implement different tech- library’s second fl oor to the the mangroves, removing students, who can use it to private citizen donations and who would also be able to niques that would use the Wolfe University Center. invasive species, creating their advantage during labora- SGC-BBC. make a home in the garden,” natural resources on campus, “It’s called the butterfl y a marked nature trail and tory sessions,” Ampie said. Mariela Quintanilla, Ampie said. “FIU would be according to Julissa Castel- garden because hopefully adding Florida wildfl ower The Offi ce of the Vice senior public relations major, supporting the new environ- lanos, director of academic these plants will attract butter- beds around the gazebo Provost also hired Jennifer is pleased with the develop- mentally friendly era that we support services and opera- fl ies, which will make the outside of the library. Some of Grimm as environmental ments so far. are currently living in.” tions at the offi ce of the BBC garden more aesthetically the fl owers, which are native coordinator in November “I think it’s an excellent In 2006, former BBC Vice Vice Provost, pleasing,” said Neistein. to Florida, include yellow 2008 to help the new projects idea the campus is fi nally Provost Damian Fernandez “The goal is to create a “Butterfl ies represent peace beach sunfl owers, pink and come to fruition. doing something positive started a project to remodel vibrant academic life that and serenity.” yellow blanket fl owers, and “These are just a few of toward the environment,” BBC, with the help of students incorporates BBC’s unique The butterfl y garden was blue-eyed grass. the projects that have spun Quintanilla said. “In the long and a committee of faculty setting, and offers environ- an idea proposed by people For Ampie, these proj- off from the original initiative run, it does not only make and staff, including Hugh mentally friendly experiences from different departments, ects will make the campus to make the campus green,” the campus look good, but Gladwin, director and asso- and opportunities to the entire according to Neistein, which more beautiful, and provide Castellanos said. also safer to FIU students and ciate professor of sociology BBC community,” Castel- include the Offi ce of the Vice additional resources for his The primary funding for professors.”

SOC-BBC goals More clubs to improve campus life

MARIAN MARVAL DÍAZ Martinez, SOC-BBC vice said his goal is to increase the socbbc) and handing out We want to in- Contributing Writer president and a sophomore number of clubs on campus. fl iers. psychology major. There are 15 registered “For this summer, we only crease the number Other SOC-BBC members clubs under SOC-BBC, but have a club fair and a general of clubs on cam- The Student Organization Council at Biscayne Bay include Mais Kayyali, trea- only eight of them are active meeting, but we are going to pus. The clubs Campus has new members surer and freshman fi nance this summer, according to have a lot of activities for fall. major; Lorraine Henderson, Georges, who said the rest We will have a networking GEORGES are important for with one goal: maintaining students because all clubs and getting new events coordinator and soph- will be back for the Fall and activity consisting of other ones to enhance campus omore international busi- Spring semesters. clubs coming to BBC and it’s their little ness major; Mary Humprey, “We hope to get 45 or 50 networking with each other, projects, and they life. SOC-BBC is the marketing coordinator and clubs at the end of Spring but we don’t have a date get more involved. governing body of all student graduate student from the 2010,” Georges said. yet,” Martinez said. organizations on campus, Integrated Communications: Clubs that are now active A Summer Fun Club and also funds and regulates Advertising and Public Rela- during the summer are: On Fair will take place July 22 student clubs, according to tions program; and Vincent Point Poetry, BBC Science, at 1 p.m. in Panther Square, its constitution. It is funded Yuen, secretary and a fi nance Marine Biology, Tau Sigma where registered clubs will by the Student Government major. Alpha, Film Union, Public set up tables to recruit new I want to be Association, and its budget Didier Georges, who Relations Student Society members. more involved in is distributed among all was SOC-BBC president of America, Students for Students interested in clubs. during 2008-2009, was re- the Poor and Invitational creating new clubs must campus life and elected in April. Georges, a Scholars. have a minimum of fi ve leave a legacy. I The 2009-2010 executive board started the school year junior international business Students are concerned members, a faculty member MARTINEZ want to try to do wanting to increase student major, is the only SOC-BBC with the lack of activities on to serve as club advisor and something for the participation at BBC. member with previous expe- campus during the summer, a constitution. school and help “We are different from rience in the fi eld. according to Georges. SOC- This year’s SOC-BBC the other organizations “I decided to run again as BBC is therefore trying members have high expec- SOC-BBC be big- president because I wanted to attract students to new tations about what the new ger and better. because we work with a lot of clubs and make events to help the new executive clubs through a marketing school year will bring. fun for everybody. We basi- board and teach them what I campaign, which includes “We are excited for what cally care for the clubs and know about SOC,” Georges sending e-mails, contacting we are going to do, and their needs,” said Patricia said. students through a Face- being part of the campus As president, Georges book group (facebook.com/ life,” Martinez said. Contact Us Iris Febres Opinion Editor opinion@fi usm.com OPINION The Beacon – 4 www.fi usm.com Wednesday, July 8, 2009 Republicans must let go of past ideologies Campus safety goes beyond JUAN CARLOS SANCHEZ text messages: common Staff Writer Ronald Reagan’s great Republican Party sense is needed, too – at fi rst defi ned by its conservative spending When Derrick Storms was held at gunpoint – is becoming extinct. and robbed in the early morning hours of June The GOP has turned into a scapegoat for 29 while studying outside the Green Library, he the current economic crisis. It has become expected the University community to at least an increasingly divided party in which each hear about it. man is on his own, and its top representatives When Public Safety did not broadcast a have become the “genius” Sarah Palin, Dick warning to students via text message, after Cheney (or rather, Dr. Evil), and the noto- deciding there was no imminent threat, Storms rious Rush Limbaugh. was outraged. It started with George W. Bush, when “I was lulled into a false sense of security,” the party that was known to advocate small Storms said. “I would not have been studying government and conservative spending outside the Green Library had I known of the suddenly betrayed its principles and increased danger.” national debt to $4 trillion, using Sept. 11 as Considering the circumstances under which an excuse. Bush subsequently decided to this crime occurred, Public Safety’s decision invade Iraq for its terrorist ties and “weapons not to alert the campus was a wise one. of mass destruction.” “The decision to not alert the campus was We all know how that turned out. IRIS A. FEBRES/THE BEACON made after apprehending one suspect and The reality is that many politicians who knowing that the second suspect had fl ed the sell themselves as Republicans really belong taxpayers with incomes greater than $10 serves to poison the party. campus,” said Lieutenant Ricardo Torres, to “the Bush Party,” where the line between million reduced their investment tax by an The Republican Party must stop preaching who was in charge of the investigation, in a government interests and personal agendas average of $500,000, with a total tax savings to the extremely conservative, white Prot- statement. has become blurred. of $1 million by the end of the Bush term, estant population and appeal to minorities. The second assailant was soon apprehended What began as the war on terror in Afghan- according to The New York Times. Most importantly, they must appeal to the with the help of Sweetwater Police. istan became the Iraq War – where control- In an increasingly liberal society, opposing independent voters, who decide elections. “I feel students should know of the propen- ling oil seems to have become the main goal. gay rights and abortion has rewarded them They have to start defending the middle sity of violent crimes committed at FIU, so they After all, no weapons of mass destruction with animosity. Opposing the universal class, and not with rhetoric – they need to act can avoid the plight I recently went through,” were found. health plan that would benefi t 46 million via legislation. Health care reforms, green Storms said. The real cancer of the party is its posi- Americans doesn’t make sense, unless their policies and employment opportunities and Although relevant enough for a story, a mass tion on sensitive subjects like the economy, intention is to serve insurance agencies rather reduction of the national defi cits are a good panic resulting from a stale message would be social issues and its own radically conserva- than voters. way to start. unnecessary, waking people up early in the tive stance. Cutting taxes for the super rich It’s simple, at least theoretically: Republi- Of course, with the current Democrat-run morning and distressing students in the resi- that are the minority of the electorate hasn’t cans must stop being the party of old issues Washington, bipartisanship is a must. The dence halls. However, it does raise questions helped the GOP’s image in recent elec- that are meaningless. Roe v. Wade is an issue Republicans simply have to stop being the about students’ safety awareness. tions, especially with the nation’s current of the past, so are gay rights - ignoring envi- party of “no” and offer feasible alternatives For one, students shouldn’t trust Public unemployment rate at 9.1 percent. In 2003, ronmental problems and other policies only in the case of dissent. Safety to watch out for them 24 hours a day. If you study with an open laptop outside in the predawn hours, you take your chances. Media should not consider ‘tweets’ a legitimate news source According to FIU Public Safety’s Web site, JORGE VALENS Iranian elections, where Ayatollah-backed tion, then why am I watching? I turn to CNN for in 2007 there were fi ve cases of robbery at Asst. News Director candidate Mahmoud Ahmadinejad won in a hard, reliable news. It wouldn’t be too farfetched MMC, 75 cases of burglary at MMC and 15 at contested election against reformist candidate for Iranian government offi cials to use sites such BBC. Twitter has erupted since its start in March Mir-Hossein Mousavi; ballot fraud is believed as Twitter to spread false information that CNN Students need to realize that FIU will of 2006. The service distributes a lot of infor- to have taken place. would unknowingly report. always be an open campus, with the Frost mation to millions of people, but how reliable is Because of the foreign media’s inability to Citizen journalism has its pluses and Museum, various sports events, public gath- that information? report freely on what’s going on in Iran due to minuses: it gives media outlets omnipresence, erings, speeches, the Fair and even bathrooms News agencies and media outlets have government censorship, CNN turned to Twitter, especially during events that require intense, that attract the attention of the public. begun taking advantage of Twitter, a popular Facebook, and YouTube for the bulk of its ongoing coverage. However, I would hardly Second, students shouldn’t leave their social networking site, as a means of delivering information. During the Iran election coverage, consider “@DiscoDan227” a credible source. personal belongings unattended. Many familiar breaking news. CNN anchors would openly refer to “tweets” CNN looked to Twitter for instant viewer stories have spread about students who have But recently, some agencies, particu- from people who were supposedly in Iran at feedback, but later realized the possibilities of walked away to use the library bathrooms only larly CNN, have used it as more of a source, the time. Meanwhile, a large red banner ran at millions of citizen journalists reporting local to return and fi nd their laptops missing. Also, commonly referring to information broadcast the bottom of the screen reading “unconfi rmed information all the time. In the end, I’ll take a do not leave expensive objects visible in your on it during news coverage. This was espe- information.” seasoned, educated journalist over a “tweet” cars – leaving anything valuable in plain sight is cially apparent during the coverage of the If you are reporting unconfi rmed informa- any day of the week. basically asking for someone to break in. Finally, be careful when walking alone at night. FIU is well lit during the day, but the SAY WHAT?!: Should Public Safety have alerted students of the incident that happened June 29? night houses a lot of dark areas that can become potential crime scenes. Students can call Panther “[Public Safety] should have “Not only should students be “[Public Safety] should make “It’s really dangerous to Tram at (305) 348-6173 to come and pick them let students know about what updated about these incidents, more of an eff ort to let students not know what’s going on, up and safely escort them to their car or dorm. happened. I don’t think many but we should also be more know about these incidents; especially when you have It is students’ responsibilities to keep their students know about it.” knowledgeable about the Cam- this is our second home.” late classes. If you don’t know eyes and ears open for suspicious activities and to report anything they see to the Public Safety pus Safety system itself.” what’s going on, you don’t think offi cials. about taking precautions.” If students do not receive text alerts and Johnny Vazquez Mariana Stevenson Danny Tamayo Jillian Torres wish to do so, they would need to have their Junior, Public Relations Junior, History Junior, Nursing Senior, Liberal Studies number registered for alerts online at Panther- soft. “We take every incident seriously and will use appropriate measures to respond to each emergency,” Torres said. EDITORIAL POLICY QUOTATIONATION OPINION PIECE DAILYQUERY In the end, no one is responsible for their Editorials are the unifi ed voice “It’s amazing what sort of shots he Sarah Palin resigned from her own lives but themselves. of the editorial board, which gubernatorial offi ce on July 3, is composed of the editor in can come up with from impossible In this instance, The Beacon trusts that the 140 stepping down a year and a half chief, management, and the positions ... It’s an unbelievable ef- before her term ended. Was this a Public Safety offi cers made the right choice editors of each of the fi ve sec- good move for her to make if she when it comes to the safety of FIU’s students tions. The Beacon welcomes fort to have 15 grand slam titles.” The number of people killed plans to run for the presidency in and hopes that students will take more precau- any letters regarding or in (at least) in Xinjiang, China, response to its editorials, send Tennis Athlete Rod Laver 2012? Let us know! Send responses tions around campus. highlighting the region’s worst them to opinion@fi usm.com On Roger Federer’s July 5 Wimbledon win case of ethnic unrest in years. to opinion@fi usm.com. Contact Us Christopher Cabral Life! Editor chris.cabral@fi usm.com LIFE! The Beacon – 5 www.fi usm.com Wednesday, July 8, 2009

thirst. The Vans Warped Tour 2009, one of the to popularity. few large touring festivals left in the music If the warped tour is known for anything, world, kicked off on June 26 in Panoma, Cali- it’s its uncanny ability to fi nd talent in a sea fornia and will run across the United States and of bands, all thirsty for a chance to show- Canada for 46 tour dates, making one very antic- case their music. ipated stop in South Florida on July 25 at the Warped Tour founder Kevin Lyman, Cruzan Amphitheatre. Punksters and alterna- who is affectionately known as the grandfa- tive music lovers all over South Florida will be ther of punk among warped tour bands, has treated to a new festival setup, but with the same been hand picking the bands since 1994, R musical dynamics that has made the warped when he grabbed ska bands such as No tour as popular as it is today. Doubt and Sublime, picked up some skate Fans will be able to enjoy headliners such as teams, shoved them on a bus and took them U Bad Religion, NoFX, Anti-Flag, Flogging Molly on the fi rst ever warped tour. and even current radio chart toppers like 3OH!3 Now, as the tour celebrates what some of on one main stage for 40-minute sets as opposed us in Miami would refer to as its Quincea- O to two main stages with bands performing for ñera it follows the same process, with only 30. Lyman himself going out to fi nd the talent T Bad deal some might say. But, when most that punks across the nation can enjoy. people watch punk veterans like Bad Religion From national acts like 3OH!3, We the E play, they’ll thank the heavens they have 10 Kings and All Time Low, to punk rock vets extra minutes to soak in a newly invigorated like Bad Religion, Alexisonfi re and the love for punk music. Bouncing Souls, this year’s Vans Warped DDETOUR Aside from the quality of the performers, Tour is sure to have something to offer most what sets this festival apart from most other music lovers. summer festivals is the price. While other If you’re into more obscure, yet-to- festivals suck about $100 to $200 out of fans, be-popular bands, check out the “Kevin entrance to Warped Tour costs around $25. Says Stage.” You might leave with a That’s $25 for more than 40 bands, free bags of new favorite “I saw them before anyone goodies at every sponsor’s tent, countless band knew who they were” act. For those who Vans Warped Tour set to rock autograph signings and the chance to say “You are warped tour virgins, there is even a saw so-and-so before they hit the big time.” “Warped Tour Survival Guide” on warped- That leads to another reason this festival’s tour.com that lists all the dos and don’ts and South Florida this month sets have the potential to be so memorable. “OMG! NO WAYs” for your fi rst warped Heavy hitters like Fallout Boy, Panic! At the tour experience. ROSALYN DELGADO the hottest beach-side clubs, others are looking Disco, Paramore, Blink-182 and Sum 41 all The 2009 Vans Warped Tour will hit Recruitment Director forward to something more warped. have something more than platinum records in South Florida on July 25 at the Cruzan The alternative/punk music community common, they all got their start at the warped Amphitheatre. Tickets are still available on While most Miami residents are gearing is preparing to make a pilgrimage to the one tour and, like them, every year many up-and- ticketmaster.com. For the full band lineup up to spend their summer hanging out at summer tour that is sure to quench their musical coming acts use the tour as their launching pad check out www.warpedtour.com.

THE CINEMATIC This summer’s potential surprise box-office hits

The summer box-offi ce season is usually JULY 10 JULY 17 a special bomb unit in Iraq in the summer of the time when Hollywood unleashes big- MOON (500) DAYS OF SUMMER 2004. In this movie, three members of the scale and big budget fi lms such as Star Trek Army’s elite Explosive Ordinance Disposal and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen On the far side of the moon in the near When an unlucky greeting card copy squad (Jeremy Renner, Anthony Mackie which predictably become future, Astronaut Sam Bell (Sam Rock- writer (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) is suddenly and Brian Geraghty) battle insurgents and COLUMN huge hits. well) is about to complete a three-year dumped by his girlfriend (Zooey Deschanel), each other as they disarm several roadside Sometimes, however, contract with Lunar Industries to mine for he looks back at the past 500 days when bombs on the streets of Baghdad. The movie a movie like The Hang- Earth’s new alternative energy source. Sam they were together to try to fi gure out what features cameo appearances from Oscar- over goes on to become a has no way to communicate with anybody specifi c event led to their break up. Ulti- nominee Ralph Fiennes (The Reader), surprise success, despite outside of the moon station other than Gerty mately, his refl ections on the great time they David Morse (“John Adams”), Evangeline a much smaller budget (Oscar-winner Kevin Spacey), a robot that spent together lead him to fall in love with Lily (“Lost”) and Guy Pearce (Memento), and less initial promotion. expresses emotion through a cartoon smiley her all over again. (500) Days of Summer and was fi lmed in Amman, Jordan and the STEVE MESA Here are a couple of fi lms face displayed on a computer screen. marks director Mark Webb’s fi rst full length cast was provided with security from the that might not be as highly As he has weeks before he can be reunited feature fi lm after directing several music Jordanian military at the hotels where cast anticipated as the new Harry Potter movie, with his wife and young daughter, Sam starts videos. and crew were staying. but could become “sleeper hits.” More to have frequent headaches and hallucina- importantly, they could turn out to be good tions and suffers from a lack of focus. This JULY 24 JULY 31 movies that might make a worthy alternative causes him to have a near-fatal crash in a THE HURT LOCKER THIRST to the typical summer fare. lunar rover. While recuperating at the base while Directed by Kathryn Bigelow (Point A priest (The Host’s Song Kang-Ho) suffering some memory loss, he meets a Break), The Hurt Locker is a fi ctional tale volunteers for a secret vaccine develop- younger and agitated version of himself that inspired by real events in the life of journalist ment project intended to stop a deadly virus. turns out to be a clone. and screenwriter Mark Boal, who was with The priest comes in contact with the virus and a blood transfusion is given to him. Unfortunately, the operation turns him into a vampire. Already a box offi ce smash hit in Korea, Thirst was honored with the Jury Prize at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival.

AUG. 14 PAPER HEART

You may not have heard of Charlyene Li, but you might remember her from her role as Seth Rogen’s roommate’s girlfriend in Knocked Up. In Paper Heart, Li travels Moon(500) Days of Summer Thirst The Hurt Locker Taking Woodstock CINEMATIC, page 6 6 The Beacon – Wednesday, July 8, 2009 LIFE! www.fi usm.com Indie fi lms dominate Facebook applications to summer movie lineup help you waste the day away CINEMATIC, page 5 prevent the bank’s foreclosure on the family business. The festival the country to make a documen- that comes to his small hometown TREVOR NICHOLSON book application? tary about love, a subject she ends up attracting half a million Contributing Writer If you want to know more about your own is skeptical of. With her friend people and becomes a defi ning personality and then compare it to your friends’, (and director) Nicolas Jasenovec, moment for a generation. Ever found yourself on Facebook chatting it up this application is sure to get you through a lull. they talk to several friends and Taking Woodstock has a cast with friends, posting photo comments or using any It offers several different quizzes to pinpoint strangers on the diverse views of that features Oscar-nominee of the thousands of applications when you should your personality traits, some of which are more modern romance. Imelda Staunton (Harry Potter be studying? than 300 questions long and are supposedly used in As soon as fi lming begins, Li and the Order of the Phoenix), If you have and want to put a stop to it, stop actual psychological research. begins to fall in love with actor Eugene Levy (American Pie), reading now! How Well Do You Know Me? – This applica- Michael Cera and their relation- Emile Hirsch (Into the Wild) and But, for the rest of you, the following list of tion appears to be particularly popular. It enables ship develops in front of the Live Schreiber (X-Men Origins: Facebook applications may offer you many more users to create quizzes about themselves for their cameras. Paper Heart premiered Wolverine). It was nominated hours of procrastination and amusement. friends to take and vice-versa. at this year’s Sundance Film for the prestigious Palm D’Or Honesty Box – Do you feel like your friends Finally, Facebook has provided a proven scien- Festival and won the Waldo award at this year’s Cannes Film never quite give you their honest opinion of you to tifi c way to fi nd out which friends “really” know Salt Screenwriting Award for its Festival. your face? Or do you want to express your secret you and which ones just can’t remember what your writers, Jasenovec and Li. love in an anonymous message? “dream car” is. AUG. 21 If so, this application could prove useful. It Free Rice – While many Facebook applications TAKING WOODSTOCK WORLD’S GREATEST DAD gives you the ability to send and receive anony- like the one mentioned above seem self indulgent, mous messages, ask questions and discover what at least one application serves more than just your Directed by Oscar-winning Fresh from the 2009 Sundance people really think and let that crush of yours know ego and need for constant amusement. Based on director Ang Lee (Brokeback Film Festival is writer/director someone admires them. Potential users should be the Web site, freerice.com, this vocabulary game is Mountain) and inspired by a true Bobcat Goldthwait’s fi lm about careful however, since this application will enable intended to feed your vocabulary and, more impor- story, Taking Woodstock tells the a man (Robin Williams) who all your Facebook friends to tell you what they tantly, feed the hungry. story of Elliot Tiber (Demetri dreamed of becoming a famous really think of you, and that’s not always a good For every correct answer, the United Nations Martin) and his family, who played writer, but settles for being a high thing. World Food Program will donate 10 grains of rice a pivotal role in the making of the school poetry teacher. His son Sheep Tycoon – This game is for those of to help stop world hunger. famous Woodstock Festival. In (Daryl Sabara) treats him with you who love sheep (I know you’re out there). Sure, it’s not as fun as “Sheep Tycoon,” but 1969, Tiber moves from Green- contempt and the fellow faculty This butter-churning, milk-collecting, cheese- pretending to be a shepherd won’t feed a hungry wich Village, New York upstate member he is dating (Alexie fermenting, money-making, sheep-saving game child. to help run his parents’ motel in Gilmore) is ashamed of their offers almost as much amusement as being an All in all, these applications are a good way to White Lake, New York. When the relationship. actual shepherd, without the danger of being eaten cure your boredom, expand your vocabulary and bank is about to foreclose on the In the wake of a freak accident, by hungry wolves. live out your long-held fantasies of sheep herding. motel, Elliot hears about a hippie he is faced with the possibility of MyPersonality – College is a time when many Of course, these aren’t the only interesting appli- festival getting a permit pulled having all the fame, fortune and people learn more about and sometimes even “fi nd” cations, and more are being created every day. With from a neighboring town. popularity he’d always dreamed themselves. all the options, there is a Facebook application for He convinces the producer to of while living with how he got What better way to do that than through a Face- everyone, and a new way to waste valuable time. come to their town instead in order into that position. to attract guests to the motel and Budget-friendly potluck parties provide stress-free fun

ROBERT VICENS decorate the house with last year’s Christmas Contributing Writer lights, make calls off your guest list to assign what food or drinks to bring and, most impor- GOOD BAD At a time when it is hard to fi nd money to tantly, stay with you once the party’s done to pay bills, or even buy a girl roses, people are help with the cleanup. Be sure to give credit looking for something inexpensive to do on to your party planners, they’ll appreciate you Themes Themes weekends to keep up their spirits. What better all the more for it. way to do that than to organize a party and Having a themed party is an easy way to invite friends to share a potluck? get your guests committed to showing up by 1960s 1930s Throwing a party in your home can seem getting them to think about what to wear days Wacky Tacky Donner Party like a daunting task. The responsibility of before the event. A black and white, wacky being a host can be a tedious sport of sprinting tacky or 60’s hippie theme can add a new Disco C-SPAN from end to end of one’s property, serving dimension to your bash. cocktails, cooking last-minute treats, cleaning Another important part of recession proof Games Games up broken dishes and chasing down the house partying is to invite generously. The fact is, cat that someone carelessly let out. no matter who you may be, not everyone Twister, Bingo While there may not be a set of instruc- that you invite to your shindig will show up. tions to guarantee that everything goes right, It can be quite stressful and disappointing if charades, beer pong, Duck, duck goose here are a few general tips to keep money in at the end of the night your party is emptier your wallet and have a good time. than you wanted. Don’t be afraid to invite a spin the bottle Monopoly A potluck, if executed properly, is an lot of people. If you explain to your guests economical way to bring people together, clearly that they are responsible for bringing Snacks Snacks entertain them and stock up on leftovers for food and drinks, the more people you invite, next week. Guests are responsible for bringing the better. Chips and dip, pizza, Spam, tuna, food for themselves as well as to share with Control the focus of your groups. Have others. Don’t forget to assign folks to bring activities prepared to keep guests entertained. hummus hard-boiled eggs paper plates, cups, cutlery and ice. In theory, Uno, Apples to Apples (a very fun game), a potluck alleviates the pocket of the host and Pictionary or a party game for the Nintendo ensures a variety of foods to keep the stomach Wii are all fun ways to keep people having a happy while guests engage in whatever activi- good time. No party game is too silly among ties you’ve arranged for the evening. If you’re friends. Even if your guests spend all night feeling creative, invite friends to bring tradi- in the hot tub or dancing to whatever music tional food from their home country. you’re playing, it’s good to have ideas and One way to keep costs down while be prepared for a sudden shift in mood throwing a potluck party is to delegate among your guests. responsibility. Part of the fun of a party is There is deep satisfaction to be had in planning it and then enjoying the festivities. bringing people together, watching them The planning stage can be a good opportu- bond and laugh whether they knew each nity to bond with a pal while relieving some other beforehand. Be brave and give it a shot. of the burden of organizing everything. Pick You’ll be surprised how things have a way of one or two reliable friends to help. They can working out. www.fi usm.com SPORTS The Beacon – Wednesday, July 8, 2009 7

BRONZE PANTHER Applebaum completes fi rst recruiting class

TENNIS, page 8 mentors in [FIU football head coach] Mario Cristobal and [Athletic Director] Pete Garcia was fi nally forced to end her playing career. who have given me little tips of advice as “My bicep was completely detached and I’ve gone along.” located down in my arm,” she said. “At the For the upcoming 2009 Fall season, time it hurt, but it was nothing compared Applebaum is ready to debut her fi rst two to the match. I could have blown out my recruits in her collegiate coaching career. knee and I would have been playing like The fi rst of the two players is an incoming Superman.” sophomore from Virginia named Christina After a few months of thinking the events “Chrissie” Seredni. She won the Richmond were for the worst, Applebaum found that City Adult Open when she was 14 years old, helping young tennis players develop their making her the youngest player to win the skills in a team-oriented environment was as tournament in 25 years. fulfi lling as playing. The second is Magali Holt, a true “I now wake up every morning and have freshman from Quebec, Canada. Holt was that feeling that I can accomplish something ranked as the No. 43 Canadian female tennis today. For me, I can make a difference in player under 18 years of age at the end of each of these girl’s lives.” 2007. SCULPTING THE FUTURE “On the court, Holt is soft spoken, sweet and hell on wheels,” she said. After taking the Golden Panthers to Teammate Priscilla Castillo believes that another Sun Belt Conference Champion- the new additions will need to work as hard ship and the second round of the NCAA as ever. Regionals, Applebaum must now look “Everything went really good this year. toward building the program. We need to work hard and keep doing “As a team, we’re only gonna get better what we have been doing,” Castillo said. “I the more players we have that are ranked,” think that the biggest thing is that they are she said. “I want players who are the best gonna have to get used to the intensity of that they can be, but they need to be team practice.” players.” Applebaum is in the middle of hiring Going into her fi rst season of recruiting, an assistant coach to help her continue Applebaum has had some advice from others improving the program’s prestige. who have been there before. “You haven’t seen anything from FIU “Lucky for me, I’ve had a bunch of women’s tennis yet.”

CHRIS GREEN/BEACON FILE PHOTO SERVED: FIU volleyball star and three-time All-American Yarimar Rosa and the Puerto Rican national team earned the bronze medal at the VIII Pan-American Volleyball Cham- Conference rival wins pionships on July 4 at the BankUnited Center. Th omas hopes center returns; recruiting battle on paper find a way into the Sun Belt, but the Hill- RAMOS, page 8 toppers landed a handful. fi ve scholarship players gone On the other side of the wall are confer- One of those players is 6-foot-10 Cliff ence trophies, 21 NCAA tournament Dixon, who could put a body on Asprilla in BASKETBALL, page 8 Thomas said in an interview guard Josue Soto decided he appearances, Sweet 16 appearances, NBA a conference where he swatted most oppo- with Student Media on May wanted to play professional first round draft picks and a top incoming nents away like flies. according to Athletics. 8. basketball in Puerto Rico class that includes a 6-foot-10 recruit to Also, most of the players in that class WAITING GAME As of this week, Athletics and requested a release from counter Asprilla. are coming in as high school freshmen, said there is still no update his scholarship. Athletics assuring they will be around for longer Center Freddy Asprilla is That wall is the Western Kentucky on Asprilla’s situation. If granted it. Hilltoppers. than the array of two-year players FIU one of coach Rouco’s players he does return, he’d be one “We will do everything to attained. that Thomas would like to of fi ve scholarship players assist Josue in his pursuit and STRIKING FIRST The king of the hill might be so far off see in uniform this upcoming remaining from last year’s decision to play professional The Hilltoppers have already handed that Thomas would need binoculars to see season. squad:forwards Nikola basketball in Puerto Rico, the Golden Panthers a loss, even though a even a blur of the Hilltopper logo. Following Rouco’s reas- Gacesa, Cedric Essola and we will not stand in his game has yet to be played. signment, the Sun Belt DOMINANT and J.C. Otero and guard way,” Thomas said in an e- While Thomas scrambled to put Freshman of the Year Tremayne Russell. mail sent to Student Media together an incoming recruiting class of Western Kentucky defeated FIU last requested a scholarship Guards Michael Domin- in April. six unranked junior college players, the season en route to their fourth conference request and fl ew back home guez and Harley Fuller trans- Athletics would not Hilltoppers pounded on with arguably the tournament title of the decade, the most of to Colombia for the summer. ferred out of the University disclose how many more best class in the conference. any Sun Belt team. “Let’s give it some time. to play closer to home before scholarships Thomas is Thomas arrived late in the process The Hilltoppers also advanced to the I do understand [Asprilla’s] Thomas’ hiring. allowed to distribute, but and is still trying to learn the ropes of the second round of the NCAA tournament emotions. I told him ‘The After the coaching change he is still actively recruiting college game from a coaching perspective. where a two-point loss to No. 10 ranked door is always open here,’” occurred, starting point players. With all the optimism his arrival aroused, Gonzaga stopped them from reaching their some would say it was a valiant effort for second straight Sweet 16. the position he was in. New Jersey Nets guard Courtney Lee CLASSIFIEDS His first recruiting class cannot be was a Hilltopper in 2008 for that deep judged until it gets on the court, and postseason run, but the team did not skip a shouldn’t be held to huge expectations beat after his departure. JOBS anyway. The incoming class of recruits will add The war is still to be fought on the on to starters Steffphon Pettigrew, Sergio court, but the Hilltoppers won the battle of Kerusch and A.J. Slaughter and put WKU WORK STUDY STUDENTS! Join student media today! We offer fl exible work sched- recruiting on paper. in position to close out the decade with ules. Call 305-348-6993 or e-mail Beacon@fi u.ed for more information. Apply today! It can’t be overlooked that Western five SBC tournament titles. Kentucky acquired the only four-star Indeed, the SBC runs through Bowling Green, Kentucky. FOR RENT recruit that will see the conference this season in forward Terrence Boyd, and also The bricks on the wall are getting added three more prospects with three-star stronger with time, and Western Kentucky Single room to let $500 per month, $400 depsoit refundable, phone 305-274-9510 nice ratings, according to rivals.com. has the conference in a tight grip that will house, safe decent area, male student preferred, no drinks smoke, short drive. Those type of players generally do not take, at this pace, years to climb. Contact Us Sergio Bonilla Sports Director sergio.bonilla@fi usm.com SPORTS The Beacon – 8 www.fi usm.com Wednesday, July 8, 2009 BUILDING BLOCKS Basketball team almost complete RECRUITS with junior college transfers • Marvin Roberts Redlands Community College 6-foot-5 guard Averaged 29.6 points and 4.6 rebounds last season. JONATHAN DAVILA in steals at 4.7 a game and shot a scorching 72 Led the NCJAA in scoring. Staff Writer percent from beyond the arc, making 54 of his 75 attempts. • Antoine Watson Redlands Community College The Golden Panthers men’s basketball team Weaver, a 6-foot-3 guard from Connor State, 6-foot-3 guard that will hit the court this fall will be very different averaged 17 points and six rebounds per game Averaged 24.8 points per game last from the one that lost to Western Kentucky in the last season and led his team to the NCJAA Final season. second round of the Sun Belt Conference tourna- Four. He was named Player of the Year in his Fifth leading scorer in NCJAA. Led NCJAA in steals (4.7 per game). Had a 72 percent ment last March. conference and was a Third Team Junior College three-point fi eld-goal percentage. The most notable change will come from the All-American. coaching staff. Standing at 5-foot-10, Gary, Jr. averaged 19 • Stephon Weaver Head coach Sergio Rouco was reassigned points with nine assists per game for Malcolm Connor State 6-foot-3 guard within Athletics, and basketball Hall of Famer X Community College last season. The under- Averaged 17 points and 6 rebounds per Isiah Thomas was given the reins to the program sized guard also tallied three triple-doubles this game last season. a day later. past season, scoring at least 30 points in those Led Connor State to NCJAA Final Four and As of now, fi ve players from last season will three contests. was named a Third-Team Junior College All-American. not be returning due to graduation or because “We are excited about these four student they requested scholarship releases. athletes,” Thomas said in a press release sent • Phil Gary, Jr. So with holes to fi ll in the roster, Thomas to Student Media in April. “I look forward to Malcolm X Community College began his rookie year of recruiting, and, so far, coaching all four players both on and off the 5-foot-10 guard Averaged 19 points and 9 assists last he’s handed out six scholarships to fi ve junior court.” season. college athletes and one University of Arkansas Lytch, a 6-foot-7 power forward, spent Tallied three triple-doubles last season, transfer student. his sophomore season at Midland College in scoring at least 30 points those games. Midland, Tex. after playing for Redlands CC NEW FACES • Kavon Lytch in El Reno, Okla. his freshman year. He led his 6-foot-7 forward Thomas began by signing Marvin Roberts, team in scoring with 17.7 points a game on 66 Midland Community College Antoine Watson, Stephon Weaver, Phil Gary, percent shooting and grabbed 9.3 rebounds per Averaged 17.7 points and 9.3 rebounds Jr. and Kavon Lytch out of junior colleges, and game. last season. he recently got sophomore Brandon Moore Shot 66 percent from the fi eld. The transfer from Arizona, Moore, is the No. to transfer from the University of Arkansas 32 power forward from the recruiting class of • Brandon Moore Razorbacks. 2008, according to rivals.com. University of Arkansas Roberts, who led the NCJAA in scoring last He didn’t play much during his freshman 6-foot-9 forward season, averaged 29.6 points and 4.6 rebounds Averaged 1.9 points and 1.6 rebounds in campaign as a Razorback, averaging 9.1 minutes 9.1 minutes last NCAA season. for Redlands Community College in 2008-2009. with 1.9 points and 1.6 rebounds. Moore will Was the No. 32 ranked power forward in

HOTO The 6-foot-5 guard also knocked down 47 3- have to sit out the 2009-2010 season, per NCAA rivals.com’s class of 2008 recruiting class. pointers in the 2008-2009 season. transfer rules, but will be eligible to play for three Will sit out 2009-2010 season per NCAA /AP P Watson, a teammate of Roberts’ at Redlands seasons, beginning with the 2010-2011 season, transfer rules. CC, was the fi fth leading scorer in the

ALUBOWSKI NCJAA with 24.8 points per game.

Z BASKETBALL, page 7

AVID The 6-foot-3 guard also led the league D WOMEN’S TENNIS Golden Panthers have Head coach Hilltoppers to climb gears up for Fall rivals.com ranks as the olden Panthers foot- G strongest group in the Sun ball head coach Mario Cris- Belt. tobal understands how to CHRIS GREEN the head coach of a top 30 There is a wall there. In build a team from scratch. Staff Writer [ranked] Division I women’s Troy, the Golden Panthers When tennis program.” face the daunting task of the Golden First-year Golden Nearly three months ago, trying to keep up with a Panthers Panthers tennis head coach she became the offi cial head power in the conference made the Melissa Applebaum led her coach and took control of that is in position to stay CHRIS GREEN/BEACON FILE PHOTO leap from University of Miami team the FIU tennis program. there. one win in to the 2006 NCAA National She was the interim coach ADVICE: Head coach Melissa Applebaum hopes new re- Basketball coach Isiah 2007 to a Championship Finals. But throughout the team’s 15-5 cruits will help team advance more in the NCAA tourney. Thomas can seek counsel JONATHAN RAMOS near post- a lingering shoulder injury regular season. from Cristobal, but the season brought her career to an For the fi rst time in the believed in me and my baum can help me do that.” first-year, controversial bowl game in 2008, Cris- abrupt end in 2006. past few years, the 25-year- thoughts, and everything I coach has an even greater PLAYING DAYS tobal placed the program in Now, in 2009, she is real- old Applebaum will be able told them we would do this Goliath to overcome. a promising direction. izing a new dream she never to provide Golden Panthers year, we did.” Applebaum had never That program faces a The team followed that even considered. tennis continuity in the form Liset Brito, the team’s given a second thought to wall that 6-foot-10 Sun up with the second best “As a player you grow of an established head coach highest ranked player, coaching as a career when Belt Freshman of the Year recruiting class in the Sun up wanting to play at with no plans of leaving the said that playing under she was in college at the Freddy Asprilla and 7-foot Belt Conference, second to Wimbledon and all the program anytime soon. Applebaum has helped her University of Miami. giant Russell Hicks could Troy University. Second. majors, and I’ve done that “The whole year has been improve in her sport. Foregoing shoulder not climb last season even A distant finish from a and loved it,” the former wonderful,” Applebaum “This past year was surgery her sophomore year if they stood on top of each Troy team that cushioned UM standout said. “Then I said. “For some of these great,” Brito said. “I want through her senior year, she other. itself with 40 new recruits got injured. Now, three years girls, I’m their third coach in to improve my ranking and which recruiting database after graduating college, I’m four years of college. They I believe that coach Apple- TENNIS, page 7 RAMOS, page 7