The Beacon, July 3, 2013 Florida International University

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7-3-2013 The Beacon, July 3, 2013 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. 25, Issue 1 fiusm.com Wednesday, July 3, 2013 Tuition revenue JOB FAIR to improve financial aid, advising REBECA PICCARDO revenue is needed to compensate Staff Writer for the losses generated by the downturn in the economy and State universities will expe- state budget cuts. rience a 1.7 percent tuition The automatic tuition increase increase for the 2013-2014 is also being triggered because academic year, an automatic larger tuition has been written inflation adjustment triggered into previous budgets approved by Gov. Rick Scott’s veto of a 3 by the Board of Governors. percent increase. Due to an annual work The increase will equal a plan meeting, members from $1.75 increase per credit hour, the Board of Governors were or an extra $21 a semester for unavailable for comment by Roberto Jimenez/The Beacon a student enrolled in 12 credits. press time. 8th Annual Federal Government Statewide Conference hosted by FIU’s Career Services. Florida state law requires that “The state seems to be restor- resident undergraduate tuition ing money that was cut before per credit hour increases at the and may be providing some addi- increase will generate approxi- nalism major. “[It] has to charge Pascual, sophomore criminal beginning of each fall semes- tional money beyond that,” said mately $1,600,000 in additional accordingly and tuition fees must justice major. ter at a rate equal to inflation. Vice President of Governmental revenue. reflect the state of the economy.” Students are concerned about Although it is illegal to reject the Relations Steve Sauls in an inter- There will be more funds for However, not all students automatic tuition hikes on top of automatic tuition increase, Gov. view with Student Media. “Some financial aid and employment agree with how tuition is affected all the other expenses. Scott is lobbying for universities of that might be a small tuition at the university at a cost of less by the economy. “Tuition hikes really affect to cut tuition rates by the same increase.” than $2.00 per credit hour. “I don’t think the tuition college students,” said Vianca percentage to prevent tuition Ken Jessell, senior vice pres- “The University has to be should increase with inflation Picart, junior criminal justice hikes for students. ident and chief financial officer able to maintain itself,” said because salaries don’t increase TUITION, PAGE 2 University officials said, of the Board of Trustees, said Francesa Rosario, junior jour- with inflation,” said Jessica however, that the additional the University estimates the Court strikes down Defense of Marriage Act REBECA PICCARDO hinge upon marital status in the first place,” said Bobby 2008 Proposition 8 was unconstitutional and called for Staff Writer Joe Bracy, Jr., a second-year law student. the resumption of gay marriages in California. Justin Santoli, a sophomore in elementary education The ruling does not require that states recognize Last Wednesday proved to be a major victory for the and the president of the FIU Stonewall Pride Alliance same-sex marriages performed by other states, however. gay rights movement in the United States, when the club, said, “marriage is only one component of the gay Although the DOMA ruling advanced gay rights in Supreme Court had a 5-4 ruling to take out a section rights movement.” some states, it causes uncertainty for same-sex couples of the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which According to Bracy, there are other issues that affect in other states, including Florida, which do not recognize denied federal benefits to same-sex couples. young members of the LGBTQA community, such as the same-sex marriage. Although last Wednesday proved to be a major victory rising HIV infection rates, which have not given enough “We’re only talking about Section 3 of DOMA,” said in favor of gay rights, not all members of the LGBTQA attention recently due to the push for same-sex marriage. Cyra Choudhury, associate law professor, in an email. community agree with the importance given to the According to Santoli, regardless of age, the DOMA “What the ruling did not do is require states to extend marriage issue. ruling is a huge stepping stone in changing public full faith and credit to foreign same-sex marriage.” “We, as a LGBTQA community, should question why opinion. access to basic human rights, like health care, should The Supreme Court’s ruling also declared that the DOMA, PAGE 2 University misses its Fresh Foods Company AILYS TOLEDO and faculty,” said Felecia Fresh Foods into Panther Contributing Writer Townsend, director of Dining’s and Orientation business and services. offices previous locations Students and patrons When Fresh Foods was and will install new seat- will have to go about first built in 2002, it was ing, including booths and their summer days at the located at the end of the a lounge area. New sta- University without Fresh Graham Center, next to tions and equipment will Foods. the Panther Dining and produce menu items like The dining location is Orientation offices. In gluten-free and vegan receiving a top-to-bottom 2004, the entrance of the food options. renovation, scheduled for restaurant was remodeled Townsend said Fresh fall 2013 completion. and relocated during the Foods offers a personal- Together, the Univer- renovations of GC into ized, innovative dining sity, Aramark and Fresh the Atrium. experience customized Foods Company recog- Since the minor change for the University com- in 2004, the restaurant is munity. nized the desire for a Andres Cardenas/The Beacon more social gathering on now undergoing a total “I am celiac and find- Workers continue to complete renovations to the Fresh Foods Company, which are set to campus. interior and exterior ing places to eat that offer be complete by fall 2013. “The more open and makeover. a good and healthy vari- inviting atmosphere will The process of the ety of gluten-free meals community’s health,” Fresh Foods has added mote their health, while encourage social inter- renewal is divided into is hard, so I’m happy that said Vanessa Salcedo, new items to its menu to action and foster collab- three phases. such a well-known place senior architecture major. cater to students and pro- oration between students Phase One will expand is investing in the FIU FOOD, PAGE 2 2 The Beacon – Wednesday, July 3, 2013 NEWS fiusm.com WORLD NEWS Tuition set to increase 1.7 percent

Progress in peace talks TUITION, PAGE 1 The 70 percent of need-based aid will fund the University grant of $2,000, the upper division grant of U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said he major. “We have so many things to pay for already, and $2000, the leverage grant of $2,000 and the graduate is optimistic about narrowing the gaps between higher tuition makes things even more difficult.” need grant of $5,000. Israel and Palestine after visiting the region last However, part of the increase in funds will be applied The remaining 25 percent is split: 10 percent for week. Kerry is working on a “package” that may to financial aid, which will counteract the tuition academic based scholarships and 15 percent for admin- include release of Palestinian prisoners in Israel increase in some cases. istering the aid programs. and large amounts of international aid to the Pales- “Half of the increase will be allotted to need-based “The other half will be used to hire additional advisors tinians. Israeli agreement to allow Palestinians to financial aid,” said Jessell. to better serve our undergraduate students,” said Jessell. launch new development projects in the West Bank The average increase after applying the need-based “This will help them plan schedules and ensure they are and a Palestinian pledge to halt their campaign of financial aid is $10.50 per semester. Some students will taking the correct courses to assist them in graduating seeking recognition of their independence are also pay the full $21.00 but the students with the greatest as quickly as possible.” expected. financial aid need will pay $0, according to Jessell. While students may be pessimistic about the 1.7 “I don’t see how a $21 increase per semester is so percent tuition increase, the University said it intends to horrible, especially if part of it will allow for more use the revenue from the tuition increase to help put the Civil war results in big losses financial aid,” said Rosario. money back into students’ pockets by providing financial Seventy percent of the incoming revenue towards aid and improved advising. for Syria financial aid is used for need-based aid, according to [email protected] Director of Financial Aid Francisco Valines. A Syrian government minister has reported that two years of fighting and civil war has left the country with $15 billion in losses to the public sector with damage to over 9,000 state build- ings. Former Syrian Planning Minister Abdullah Marriage laws unclear in Fla. al-Dardari recently estimated the overall damage to Syria’s economy at $60-$80 billion. DOMA, PAGE 1 “The only clear imme- not recognized in the state one more case in favor of diate winners in the in which you reside. gay rights that has opened DOMA repeal are same- Aside from immigra- the doors to constitutional Allies respond to NSA spying Gov. Rick Scott intends sex couples who were tion, it is uncertain still challenge. to continue enforcing allegations married in an equality state whether same-sex mar- According to Choud- Amendment 2, the same- and who remain there, riages will be considered hury, the next steps for Key foreign allies have lost confidence in sex marriage ban that was or go to another equality valid at a federal level for Florida would be to repeal the Obama administration and have threatened approved by 62 percent of state,” said associate law other benefits. Amendment 2 and make investigations and sanctions against the U.S. voters in 2008. professor Jose Gabilondo “If you get married in the DOMA ruling apply to over reported secret surveillance programs that “Governor Scott is right in an email. an equality state and then couples everywhere. installed listening devices in European Union in that Florida will not have According to the return to Florida, it’s not “I know that Florida is offices. According to German reports, the NSA to recognize marriages associate director of the clear yet how many federal mobilizing,” said Vega. planted bugs in the EU’s diplomatic offices from other states that are LGBTQA Initiative at FIU, rights you’ll have,” said “I hope our students will in Washington and infiltrated the building’s against its own public Gisela Vega, there are still Gabilondo. “Certainly mobilize, and spread the computer network. policy,” said Choudhury. some benefits that are some, but maybe not all.” word that there is discrim- It is unclear how the valid at a federal level and Federal benefits will ination in our state.” DOMA ruling will affect can affect couples living in be determined on a case However, Bracy is same-sex couples living in states like Florida. by case basis in states like doubtful that FIU’s stu- states like Florida, where Immigration is one Florida. dents will organize against For more world news, check out there are still same-sex of the cases which con- “There are so many injustices after the arrests www.FIUSM.com. marriage bans, which fur- sider same-sex marriage families out there—so that took place at “Occupy ther divides equality states valid at a federal level. many couples—that aren’t FIU” last year. from discrimination states. This means that a couple being recognized,” said In the meantime, can claim residency for Gisela Vega, associate according to Gabilondo, their non-citizen partner director of FIU LGBTQA the focus will return on now that DOMA has been Initiatives. individual states to defeat struck down. According to law pro- the same-sex marriage ban. According to the Miami fessor Howard Wasserman, “The states are the next Herald, for immigration although DOMA does not front,” said Gabilondo. purposes, same-sex mar- directly change anything riages are valid even if it is in Florida, indirectly it is [email protected] EDITORIAL BOARD CONTACT INFORMATION

Editor in Chief Modesto Maidique Campus: GC 210, Mon-Fri 9:00 AM-4:30 PM Brandon Wise Fresh Foods Company (305) 348-2709 BBC Managing Editor [email protected] Nadra Mabrouk Biscayne Bay Campus renovates venue, menu WUC 124, Mon-Fri 9:00 AM-4:30 PM Production Manager/ (305) 919-4722 FOOD, PAGE 1 shutdown which is necessary to com- Copy Chief [email protected] plete the plumbing improvements as allowing them to dine on a budget. part of the Fresh Foods renovations. Jenna Kefauver Editor-in-Chief: “Various meal plans have been cre- “We request[ed] a mandatory evac- ated to encourage the FIU community ews irector (305) 348-1580 uation to replace a leaky water shutoff N D to eat the fresh, healthy dishes at Fresh [email protected] valve, providing new lines to service Madison Fantozzi Food, and to save at least 10 percent the new food stations,” said Alberto Advertising: each time they dine,” said Townsend. Delgado, senior project manager. “We Life! Editor (305) 348-6993 In the meantime, students are missing are not anticipating another shutdown.” Eissy De La Moneda [email protected] their Fresh Foods. “I prefer going to Fresh Foods during [email protected] my lunch hour because it’s healthy Sports Director The Beacon is published on Mondays, Wednesdays and filling,” said Dalvys Perez, senior rancisco ivero F R and Fridays during the Fall and Spring semesters library technical assistant of Green and once a week during Summer B. One copy per Library Acquisitions. “But now that it Opinion Director person. Additional copies are 25 cents. The Beacon is closed until the fall semester, I’ve had Junette Reyes is not responsible for the content of ads. Ad to explore other, less healthy options for content is the sole responsibility of the company lunch which I don’t like to do.” Photo Editor or vendor. The Beacon is an editorially indepen- The renovations have also affected Roberto Jimenez dent newspaper partially funded by student and schedules and routines in GC, specifi-

services fees that are appropriated by student cally in regards to a mandatory evacu- government. ation held last Friday. The building experienced a water Contact Us Junette Reyes Opinion Editor [email protected] OPINION The Beacon – 3 www.fiusm.com Wednesday, July 3 , 2013 Economics: Diversify- Law updates changing University’s plans sailing ing the student body definition of marriage ahead of students MOISES FUERTES Move over, Biscayne Bay Campus MOISES FUERTES for the poorest in the country, will Staff Writer students, you may soon share your campus Staff Writer change over time – today’s minori- with Royal Caribbean performers and ties won’t be tomorrow’s. On June 26, 2013 the Supreme Court ruled Section 3 of entertainers. According to a plan by the In wake of the Supreme Court’s Even though race to some the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act unconstitutional. University, they are to take over Bay Vista vacancy of the Fifths Circuit’s degree is tied to economic standing, Section 3 of DOMA defines marriage as a legal union Housing. decision, which upheld race-con- the poorest in the country should between one man and one woman, and legally defined While this is a tentative plan that has yet to scious admission to universities certainly be given priority over the “spouse” to be used only if it was describing a person of the be finalized, The Beacon is concerned about as constitutional, universities will rich and middle class in university opposite sex in a marriage – “husband” or “wife.” where this plan is taking BBC. now have to tackle the big ques- admissions. How times have changed. This comes at a time when the University tion of whether or not a student’s By making sure that a certain Since DOMA passed in 1996, gay rights activists have has expressed interest in promoting student race truly diversifies the school. In number of students are from the fought for equality persistently. Overall, there has been an life at BBC. The Student Government turn, they must also be willing to poor population in the U.S., the enormous growth in tolerance and overall acceptance of Association allocated $2.5 million to help go to court to prove that selecting university acquires those students’ same-sex relationships since the 2000s. Today, 13 states and promote student life at BBC by renovating students based on race does indeed point of view and incorporates it the District of Columbia have legalized same-sex marriage. Panther Square. The funds used were intended diversify the student body. into the University. With the ruling on June 26, the gay community has for emergency purposes. While the Supreme Court may Those students will partici- received an enormous victory. Even though striking down These goals are contradictory and we are not find it effective to diversify pate in the student body, in their section 3 of DOMA doesn’t legalize same-sex marriage guessing that the latter will take a backseat to the student body based on race, courses and in the school’s organi- throughout the United States, it does equalize same-sex the University’s $2.2 million business deal. diversifying based on economic zations. These students will inter- marriage in terms of spousal benefits in states where No housing and non-students on campus? standing, in my opinion, is vital. mingle with the rest of the student same-sex marriage is legal. So much for fostering student life at BBC. In 2011, the rate of non-His- body and through discussions these “It seems pretty clear that legally married same-sex Having this foreign program on campus panic white children living students will share their point-of- couples where one member is employed by the federal will perpetuate student suspicions of a lack of in poverty was 12.5 percent, view and outlook on life. government are entitled to spousal benefits, just the same unity, spirit and sense of home at BBC. It will according to the United States What this does, Universi- as any other married couple,” said Dylan Matthews of The further diminish the “college experience.” Census Bureau. African-Ameri- ty-wise, is twofold. Washington Post. In the same article, Matthews mentions The experience has become show up for cans, Asians, and Hispanics are On one hand, it will diver- that it will probably be trickier for other spousal benefits, class and get out of there before the traffic the minority in the United States. sify the student body by injecting particularly if the same-sex married couple lives in a state gets any worse. But this trend is changing for the different ideas and ideals based where same-sex marriage has not been legalized. Royal Caribbean performers will not Hispanic and Asian communities, on differing economic histories of Although laws will have to be clarified – especially be the only non-FIU persons on BBC. which, according to the Associated the student body. On the other, it since the Supreme Court neglected to answer the broader Maritime and Science Technology Academy Press, could become the nation’s will ensure that the poor acquire point on U.S-wide same-sex marriage – the fact that such students may be using the campus as well majority by 2043. Even with these degrees, paving their way toward an important section of DOMA was found to be unconstitu- as there is an expansion plan which entails gains, 22 percent of all children live eventually becoming part of the tional is no small victory for the gay community. bringing MAST students to FIU in order to in poverty in the U.S., according to middle class, which is vital to There is a strong comparison between the marriage give those high school students taking dual Greg Kaufmann’s “U.S. Poverty: capitalism. equality movement and the civil rights movement, and for enrollment courses at MAST the opportunity By the Numbers.” In the same In this way, universities will not good reason. Both of these movements have a foundation to experience college life. article, Kaufmann says that within only diversify the student body, in equality for all. If history is any indication, equality will The University hopes that when these that 22 percent, 39 percent are Afri- but exemplify democracy and the come one step at a time. For the LGBT community, this MAST students are ready for college, FIU can-American and 34 percent are American dream. happens to be a huge one because it validates their plight. will be their top choice to finish their degrees. Latino. Democracy is a wonderful thing. With all of these changes, The Beacon What this data shows is that -moises.fuertes@fiusm. believes that student life is getting pushed out economic standing, particularly com [email protected] instead of being included. Student life on a college campus is vital to both happiness and excitement that surrounds the University. Sen. Rubio’s English requirement is hypocritical Whether it is a Greek organization meeting, the astronomy club or student government, students need somewhere to go once their CARLOS COBA by it only have to take English classes to be not too eager about the process of legalizing classes end that besides their home. Contributing Writer able to change their status. If the amendment millions of immigrants with the stroke of Give students more of a reason to hang out is passed, no undocumented immigrant may a pen, which goes to show that Rubio prob- on campus. During the week, students already Sen. Marco Rubio, the Cuban-American become a citizen unless he or she passes an ably added this counterproductive amendment have to share the basketball court, tennis and Miami-born congressman of Florida, has exam, thus proving their fluency in English. to the bill to appease fellow Republicans. It courts and swimming pools with elementary been leading the passing of a bill that simul- To even propose this provision to the bill would not be surprising if they passed this school children enrolled in summer camps. taneously legalizes 11 million undocumented is blatantly hypocritical on the part of Rubio, requirement, which would definitely not make If students have to go off-campus to immigrants and strengthens border security. given that he talked to millions of people in it any easier for illegal immigrants to become do these sorts of things, then why stay for According to Rubio’s official website, Spanish in order to get their vote. It seems legal residents. anything other than classes and homework? the Border Security, Economic Opportunity that whatever the law was back in 2010 when I am an immigrant, son of an immigrant; We think the students at that campus need and Immigration Modernization Act of 2013, Rubio was elected for Senate, did not seem to my mother did not have an easy time learning to be invested in more, especially with one also known as S.744, “contains the toughest trouble him as much as it does now. English because she was so busy being a of the university’s largest programs at BBC, border immigration enforcement measures in Fortunately, the English requirement mother. That is the biggest issue: immigrants Hospitality. U.S. history. It is based on six required secu- amendment has not had much success in the make efforts to learn English as quick as they Students are investing enough money into rity triggers that must be achieved before the Senate. According to a Boston Globe article can, but they are busy working and providing their education and we think that it’s time newly legalized are allowed to apply for green by Noah Bierman, published on June 24, the for their families. It’s not fair to deny someone the University reinvested that money into cards.” requirement was not included within a passed legal status just because they can’t pass an keeping students on campus. Help student However, there is one colossal stipula- amendment to the bill that focused on border exam; there are ways for immigrants to show organizations out by investing more money in tion that Rubio’s website fails to mention: security. that they are trying to improve their English. them to give them more options when it comes the English requirement amendment that the The case might be different in the House, Rubio’s hypocrisy has surprised me for to staying active and involved on-campus. senator is trying to introduce to the bill. as Bierman points out, since the current once and I’m sure others also feel that way. It’s the only way to achieve these lofty Under the requirements of the bill as it majority of the House is Republican. goals. is currently written, those millions affected Without a doubt, the Republican Party is [email protected]

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Have something on your mind? Send your thoughts (400 words maximum) to The opinions presented within this page do not represent the views of The Editorials are the unified voice of the editorial board, which is composed [email protected] or drop by our offices at either GC 210 or WUC 124. With Beacon Editorial Board. These views are separate from of the editor in chief, management, and the editors of each of the five your letter, be sure to include your name, major, year, and copy of your editorials and reflect individual perspectives of contributing sections. The Beacon welcomes any letters regarding or in response to its student ID. The Beacon will only run one letter a month from any individual. writers and/or members of the University community. editorials. Send them to [email protected]. Contact Us Eissy de la Moneda Life! Editor [email protected] LIFE! The Beacon – 4 fiusm.com Wednesday, July 3, 2013 Students help community create a mural

JESSICA VALERIA RODRIGUEZ The Senior Judge of Florida, Staff Writer Miami native and father of a fellow Panther made a call and got the For the past nine months, resi- wall repaired. Then, the Art and dents of Liberty City teamed up Art History department contributed with FIU staff and students to create by holding a series of focus groups a metaphoric mural, which is now with the local residents and the chil- illustrated on a 40-foot wall close to dren who use the Liberty Square the Full Gospel Worship Ministry on Computer Center, whose wall the N.W. 15th Avenue. mural adorns. What was once a forgotten and After discussing different ideas faded mural of the realities of life for the mural, one child asked, “What in Liberty City by African-Amer- about a tree?” ican heroes is now a beautiful “Tree From there, the artists devel- of Life.” The new mural incorpo- oped the design: the “Tree of Life.” rates bright and warm colors that And, like a living tree, it is designed bring more life to the community. to “grow.” Leaves can be added in Since the 1960s, a lot has changed in endless layers so the tree just gets Liberty Square; poverty, crime and a bigger and more colorful. simmering rage have all slowly risen. “I love that it isn’t too perfect; it This is the first of many steps they has drip marks and crooked lines - are taking to reconstruct this neigh- like life. You can see the hands of the borhood and take it back to what it artists and the non-artists. Everyone used to be. has his or her own leaf and they all The project grew out of the have a place on the ‘Tree of Life,’” communication facilitation work that Eberly said. Charlene Eberly, assistant director Kristy Wright, a graduate student of the Communication Arts Studio, in the Master in Global Governance and her colleague were doing last program who works part time at the summer with the Liberty City Trust. BBC Communication Arts Studio, Stephanie Mason/The Beacon “We hosted a tour of the commu- really enjoyed working on the mural Residents of Liberty City teamed up with the University community to create a “Tree of Life” mural nity and on the tour we passed the project. to inspire growth and improvement for Liberty City. wall, which was faded and in disre- “I had never been to Liberty City, pair,” said Eberly. The idea of a but now I have left my mark on it,” work permanently demonstrated another painting day and get more the FIU community, but also the mural was then proposed and one of said Wright. in the community was beautiful to FIU students to come out and add prospect of growth and improvement the advisory board members, Judge The most rewarding part was see and will be her inspiration to do their leaves, as there is plenty of in Liberty City. Raphael Steinhardt, stepped up and working with the kids, Wright said. something like this again. room. For now, the success of the offered to pay for the project. Their excitement from having their In the future, they plan to host mural is there to represent not only [email protected] Theater Department spices up summer with festival DANIEL URIA tors involved in this year’s Alter- She also encourages students to in hopes that students will in fact through July 27 and Aug. 1 Staff Writer native Theatre Festival. stop by to prepare themselves do the opposite. through Aug.3 with a preview on “It’s a crazy bachelorette for a hopefully slightly less wild And for those that do, July 24. With MMC not quite as busy party gone wrong,” Sandoval night. “Reverse Psychology” provides “The play brings the impos- during the summer, some may said of her play, “Bachelorette,” “It’s very fast and fun, and an interesting and relevant sible to the stage,” said Director expect on-campus activities to which opened this past weekend it’s something to do for an early look at romance. “This play Michael Yawney. “If you took a slow down as well. and will also run on July 4, July Friday or Saturday night and you is about relationships in the dozen telenovelas and ran them But the Theatre Department 5 and July 6. The play’s risqué still have time to go out later,” most basic sense,” says Pareja, through a blender, you would end has taken the opportunity to subject matter exemplifies the she said. “It’s a great pit stop for “And the effect that people can up with ‘A Thousand Years.’” spice things up a bit with their true alternative nature of the your night.” have on each other.” “Reverse The play, written by Kenny Alternative Theatre Festival. festival. Next up is “Reverse Psychology” will be previewed Finkle, who was on hand to help Running every weekend of the “There’s sex, there’s alcohol, Psychology,” a play directed by on July 10 and runs the week- with the production, tells the tale Summer B session, this festival there’s drugs; there’s mayhem, Marina Pareja, who took a cue ends of July 11 through July 13 of a woman who takes a thou- provides an opportunity for the basically,” said Sandoval. Based from the play’s title in encour- and July 18 through July 20. sand year journey to be reunited department to “do some things on the opening performance, aging students to come and Then comes a play that with her hospitalized husband. that we wouldn’t normally do Sandoval claims students can check it out. “Don’t come see is being fully produced and “She faces imprisonment for during the semester,” said Steph- expect “a lot of laughs and a lot the play, don’t come and enjoy, performed for the first time at anie Sandoval, one of the direc- of ‘oh my goodness’ moments.” don’t come and laugh,” she said, FIU the weekends of July 25 THEATER, PAGE 5 Students bringing comic book club to life JESSICA VALERIA RODRIGUEZ According to Ottati, it only took five Staff Writer steps to create the club and as soon as the flyer was up, Ottati said he had members With about 300 clubs at our University, filling out the application eagerly. it doesn’t seem like we would have room His inspiration to open the club came to add one more. from his passion and knowledge of comics. But FIU has recently opened Comics Besides being a graphic artist, he is also Club, an organization where students an illustrator. Prior to joining the Campus interested in comics can join and share Life staff, Ottati held a conference titled what they love with others. “Comic Books on Film” that discussed According to advisor and creator the art of graphic novels, comics and their Fernando Ottati, the process for opening transition to Hollywood blockbusters. the club was “extremely smooth as the In order to join the club, you need to Student Organization Council and its have an interest in comics, superheroes advisor, Ivy Siegel-Mack, made it very easy.” Holly MccCoach/The Beacon COMIC, PAGE 5 fiusm.com LIFE! The Beacon – Wednesday, July 3, 2013 5 University to host “crazy” Alternative Theater Festival

THEATER, PAGE 4 the weekend of Aug. 8, Aug. 9 and good time.” Aug. 10 with a special produc- Along with these plays, there murder, a tsunami, airplane crashes, tion of Glengarry Glen Ross. This will also be special events such as a amnesia and other disasters as she production will serve as a special July 4th cookout in the Performing How to deal with climbs mountains, crosses deserts alumni reunion featuring the entire Arts Center Rotunda and the South and visits the far reaches of the 2002 cast reprising their original Florida League’s bed for “Get in universe all in an effort to find her roles. Bed with the Arts” on July 25. All commitment issues husband,” said Yawney. He also The Alternative Theatre Festival performances will begin at 8 p.m. claims that “A Thousand Years,” is known for pushing the bound- at the Black Box Theatre located along with the rest of the festival aries of what is usually shown in the Herbert and Nicole Wert- plays must be seen to be believed. at FIU. “We tend to go for more heim Performing Arts Center on “This summer’s plays are comedic, avant-garde or fringe the Modesto A. Maidique Campus. the ones that go too far for most plays,” said Pareja. “This season is Tickets cost $10, cash or check Dear Nick, theaters. The subjects, styles and one of the most ambitious.” only, and the alumni shows are stories are some that cannot be “The festival is a lot of fun,” University fundraisers with a Q. How can I deal with a guy who is scared of commit- shrunk down to iPad size. You just added Sandoval. “It’s a lot of wild- suggested $20 donation at the door. ment words like “boyfriend,” but obviously wants have to be there,” said Yawney. ness going on, on stage. You’re to date me? The festival will conclude on going to be laughing and having a [email protected] V.H. Junior Toledo in Seville: My Biology Major Study Abroad Experience Dear V.H., We live in a fast-paced world where we are Before I decided to study abroad, program. It didn’t take me long to find feeling discouraged and quickly erased A. constantly asked to place labels, make commit- I had a mindset of what college was a complete overview of the program the possibility of going from my mind. ments and “seal the deal.” Many people use words about. As a commuter student, attending through FIU’s Study Abroad website. About two weeks later, I was on my like: dating, going steady, hanging out, going out, COLUMNIST college is part of a daily The only problem was that the trip was way home when I got an urgent call from getting serious, boyfriend, partner and husband. These labels routine. I wake up for two months away and I was getting a my mom saying everything was fine and help us to make sense of our world and allow us to under- class, drive to school, very late start into the program. I printed asking me to come home straight after IN HER stand where we fit into the dating equation. You might want to stay a few extra hours the web pages anyway and desperately work--she had a surprise for me. When consider starting to date your man without labels or expecta- WORDS to have lunch with waited until 5 p.m. so I could rush home I got home, I saw the same printed web tions and get to know him on a friend level. Many times this a friend or do some and show my parents. pages from the trip and a check with the takes the pressure off defining the relationship and allows you to studying in the library My parents are experienced world cost of the trip. get to know each other as people. Many people define relation- and then go home. travelers. Together they have traveled My mom hurried down the stairs and AILYS TOLEDO ships in different ways. Once you and him have been “dating” Every semester to over 15 different countries around the said to me, “Your father and I think this or “hanging out” for some time, you may want to ask what you brings a new variation in the schedule, world. My mom works in the criminal would be a great opportunity for you will use to define your interaction or how to introduce him to but nothing new in terms of experience. courthouse in downtown and my father and if you are still interested in going, your friends. His aversion to labeling may not be his avoidance This realization came about after last is retired; whenever they plan a trip, it is we want to help you.” It was entirely of commitment; it may just be his feeling that the label doesn’t spring semester and it left me with an not a last minute haul like I was doing. because of the help and support of my mean anything. Good luck with your relationship and enjoy each unsettling feeling. I wanted more out of International trips are also very expen- parents that I was able to have this once- moment as you experience it! my college experience. I wanted some- sive, and this study abroad trip was no in-a-lifetime opportunity. Be Well, thing that I could take with me for the exception. The overall cost of the trip The few months that followed were a rest of my life. did not include airfare or the money I’d combination of nerves, excitement, and I first learned about the School of need for personal expenses, so making intense planning. From attending orien- Nick Journalism and Mass Communication the dream into a reality would be no easy tation meetings, getting my passport Seville Study Abroad Program after feat, especially if I was going to ask my renewed two days before the final dead- reading a section of the SJMC Wire, parents for financial help. line to submit all paperwork, to actu- which is a weekly email subscription I I presented them with the information ally boarding the plane the day I was Nick Scheidt, M.S. is a Doctoral Psychology receive from the School of Journalism I printed out. I remember approaching set to leave, I felt like I was watching Intern at FIU Counseling and Psychological and Mass Communication. It was a them as if I was presenting a pitch for someone else get ready for the oppor- Services. He is a Clinical Psychology Doctoral very short description, barely providing big-time executives of a company. It tunity. Nothing sunk in until I actually Candidate from Carlos Albizu University. any information about the program, but probably goes without saying that they arrived in Seville and my journey began. Once he completes his internship at FIU, Nick it was enough to spark a great deal of were not completely on board with this My hope is to share this journey with plans to work as a Psychologist, Writer, and interest in me. opportunity. you as I relive the memories, the lessons, Professor. I remember sitting in my cubicle at “Such last minute decisions never and the unforgettable experience of my Do you have questions you would like to work and glancing over my shoulder go as planned,” my mom said. “This is study abroad trip in Spain. Ask Nick? Send an email to: [email protected] to make sure no one was around so I money that we don’t have right now,” could start researching more about the my dad explained. I left our little meeting [email protected] Comic book club uniting as a “community”

COMIC, PAGE 4 and superheroes through trade trivia nights. they have never been part comics. they already have about 20 discussions, workshops, The club will also of a club or if they have Lira hopes to promote members. and everything that relates activities, events, lectures, be hosting their first been active in others. the culture and make it The club just held their to them. This includes movie screenings and on-campus event, Even if you don’t have aware to different students second general meeting superhero movies, graphic trips to conventions and “Superman Fan Night,” years of experience in the around campus, as “it’s and the suggestions keep novel discussions and comic-related locations. which will be “Man of comic book world, this something exciting and on coming. conventions. Some of these events Steel” themed. club welcomes you. very enjoyable.” If you are interested in The club’s mission is and activities are already For future plans, the Irvin Lira, the club’s With all the superhero joining or learning more to promote “a community in the works. club is hoping to make own vice president, just movie releases, it’s a great about “The Club where where the appreciation President Jeffrey trips to the best comic book started getting involved time to open a club like Superstudents are Born,” for comic books, graphic Sodusta described a few, store in South Florida, with the comic craze. “I this. you can contact them at novels and superhero such as taking a trip to as well as a car museum recently got into comics. As for the feedback fiucomicsclub@gmail. movies is encouraged,” the Florida SuperCon (an that showcases different More specifically this from our Panthers, Ottati com. according to Ottati. annual conference that Batmobiles in Hollywood, year,” said Lira. mentioned it has been In this club, members celebrates Comic Books, Florida. Being a participant in amazing. [email protected] will be able to share Animation, Sci-Fi and Pop Sodusta encourages this club has shown Lira The club began adver- their passion for comics Culture) and hosting comic students to join even if the fun and culture behind tising in summer A and Contact Us Francisco Rivero Sports Director [email protected] SPORTS The Beacon – 6 fiusm.com Wednesday, July 3, 2013 Panthers take the high road; moving on up PATRICK CHALVIRE University of Minnesota. Staff Writer Smith wasn’t the only Panther to leave what was once called Amidst the struggles of home. having to face a postseason ban, Guards Deric Hill and Juan the men’s basketball team will Ferrales joined forces, dropped also face a new foe in Confer- down to Division II and took a ence USA. drive East to become teammates According to the NCAA team at Barry University. rankings, Conference USA is Hill started off the season ranked 11th in Division I, while coming off the bench, but the Sun Belt conference, where ranking 16th nationally in steals the Panthers’ used to play in, is per game helped boost him to a ranked 18th. starter position midseason. Coming off a season for the Neither Hill nor Ferrales were history books, the Panthers’ will offered scholarships, which led have to continue off that success, to the switch in venues. minus a coach and two starters “They [Barry] offered me and who attributed to that unexpected I didn’t want to wait,” Hill said. season. “So I just took it. Barry just New coach Anthony Evans got a winning coach. They want knows the struggles that are to win, that’s what they told me brought upon being a head coach, when they were offering me. It but understands the switch in just made me want to go.” conferences brings on new chal- The trio aren’t the only ones Roberto Jimenez/Beacon File Photo lenges for everyone, including tagged as former Panthers. himself. Rakeem Buckles, who missed all The Panthers are preparing for their first season under new Head Coach Anthony Evans as well as their first “You’re trying to lay that of last season due to NCAA rules season as members of Conference USA. foundation,” Evans said. after transferring from Louis- by the NCAA in regards to the “I’ve only been here a short “Moving into Conference ville, may also head to Minne- Last year’s GPA for the basket- APR. time,” Evans said. USA it’s going to be different, sota to join Pitino and Smith. ball team were unavailable, but if Not only do the scores range “My experience with the there is going to be more chal- “There is some interest for the GPA for the 2011-12 school in the low category, but according people who are here, Joey De La lenges. All of us are going in Rakeem to go over to Minne- year has anything to say for it, to Moses, low grades and APR Rosa, Tymell Murphy, they’re with a new mindset, it’s a new sota,” Evans said. the Panthers may need to spend points were lost due to juniors motivated to be good basketball league, it’s not the Sun Belt.” “Its something he wants to do. more time hitting the books than and seniors, rather than freshman players, to be good students, to You want to be at a place where hitting the court. and sophomores. graduate and to do something Old faces, new teams you feel comfortable with people According to Phil Moses, Evans understands what low with themselves. That’s all I can you like. He came here for coach director of the Student-Athlete scores can do to a team, and focus on. Only thing we want to FIU’s assassin from behind Pitino and he’s going to Minne- Academic Center, the GPA for though he was not at FIU during do is move forward in a positive the arc, Malik Smith, followed sota, he wants to join him.” the Men’s basketball team for the the time of the aforementioned way.” in the footsteps of former coach fall and spring of 2011-12, were GPA, he does know where to go [email protected] Richard Pitino and decided to Low grades may hurt 2.18 and 2.00 respectively, such next and knows the group of men finish his basketball career at the Panthers in the long run numbers that are also looked at he currently has. Four new Panthers ready to take the stage STEVEN ROWELL Todorovic played on the Bosnian National Contributing Writer team and was a key contributor to seven straight titles in different categories. At 5 feet This past season, the women’s basketball 6 inches tall, Todorovic averaged 25.0 points, team recorded a 20-win season and reached 6.0 assists, 5.0 steals, and 4.0 rebounds per the WNIT for the second consecutive year. game for Gymnasium Banja Luka where she Following another successful season, Head was team MVP for each of her four seasons. Coach Cindy Russo added four new players Hegedus played at Eotvos Jozsef High to her squad for the upcoming 2013-2014 School in her home country where she aver- season. aged 16.0 points per game. She also led her Russo, who has mastered international U16 Division B squad to a European Cham- recruiting during her tenure, brought in two pionship in 2010. The Hungary native stands players from overseas in Janka Hegedus from at 6-foot-1. Budapest, Hungary and Nikolina Todorovic Along with superstar Jerica Coley, who is who hails from Bosnia and Herzegovina. entering her senior season, Russo returns 10 Russo also brought in two players from the other players as the Panthers hope to reach the Sunshine State in Karrah Johnson and Kian- NCAA Tournament this coming season. dre’a Pound. With the new recruits, the biggest issue Russo likes the mindset that these players according to Russo is depth. bring into FIU as they feel they can contribute “We have a strong selection of players, we right away in their first season. are deep, we are strong and we will try to use Beacon File Photo “These are four freshmen coming here as many [players] as we can,” Russo said. The and expecting to play and have that confi- Head Coach Cindy Russo, left, signed two international players in Janka Hegedus and biggest thing though is being mentally tough.” dence,” Russo said. “That’s what I like about Nikolina Todorovic to FIU for the upcoming season along with Karrah Johnson and The expectations Russo has for the new this group, because some kids when they are Kiandre’a Pound players are have nothing to do with the freshmen they are willing to sit back and take numbers they put up but more on the mental a look type of thing and are not sure they are At 6 feet tall and hailing from Sebas- Johnson, a graduate from Lake Highland side. ready.” tian River High School in Vero Beach, Fla., Prep School in Orlando, Fla., is coming off a “I am more of a mental coach and I believe Russo was asked if the four new freshmen Pound led her team to four district titles, and senior season where she averaged a double- that if a player is coachable, listens, and is will get playing time during their first season also won the state championship for class 7A double with 11.0 points and 10.0 rebounds per disciplined you can win a lot of games,” Russo with the Panthers. in 2012. The incoming freshman averaged game. Johnson was awarded Offensive Player said. “That’s what I will be looking for in “I will look at that, but until we get on a double-double with 18.7 points and 10.8 of the Year honors in her sophomore season, them and also their work ethic and responding the floor, you just never know, but I am really rebounds per game. She also adds defense to and was an FABC all-start in her senior year. to what he asks of them.” optimistic that they can be contenders,” Russo her game as she averaged 2.5 steals and 1.7 Johnson left Lake Highland Prep School as a said. blocks per game. 1,000 point scorer. [email protected] fiusm.com SPORTS The Beacon – Wednesday, July 3, 2013 7 Quarterback getting mentally ready for year RHYS WILLIAMS live up to the hype and take are ones that do not lead to inspirations of the term that Staff Writer on the challenge of trying to success,” Hilliard said. we coined.” be better than the guys that “Knowing that my father Hilliard went on to add When you become part of came before you.” walked the path before me, that when a person has the a historic football program, Hilliard and Teddy being a football player from ability to get through an such as the one at Miami Bridgewater, his former the inner city – who had the adverse situation, it has the Northwestern Senior High teammate at Northwestern ability to manage staying chance to give whatever School, you have to live up and currently at University on the right path throughout person gets through it an to that hype that is created. of Louisville, came up with high school – and Teddy’s almost euphoric sensation. Sophomore quarterback E.J. a solution to remedy the high mother being a strong indi- “I take pride in it and what Hilliard experienced the expectations that come with vidual woman who battled it stands for, I want this to be hype at Northwestern first being the man behind center breast cancer really helped a brand and an inspiration for hand. at Northwestern. us initiate the idea.” all student athletes. Not even “Any person that is The duo came up with Why, though, did Hilliard just athletes but anybody that familiar with the Miami an acronym that would help and his former teammate had or currently has chal- Northwestern football them while on the field and Bridgewater take on the lenges or obstacles that they program, knows that you while experiencing hard- creation of a new term of are currently facing or just have to be great and deal ships in everyday life. They life? has any little bit of adversity with a large amount of pres- came up with “G.U.M.P.,” “We took on the respon- in their life,” Hilliard said. sure while playing there. which stands for “Great sibility and burden of term “We all want to be great, There is history to live up Under Major Pressure.” because we were the QBs, we all want to be the best we to,”Hilliard said. “Teddy and I took time the leaders of our football can be, because honestly we “There are always guys to remember the great job team. Guys looked upon us to all face adversity and we will who came before you that that our parents did raising lead them, to come through forever face challenges and paved the way and were top us and guiding us on to the when it counted the most obstacles in our lives.” notch athletes. That only right path as young teenagers and to bail them out of situ- in an environment filled with ations that were presented,” -rhys.williams@fiusm. makes it harder for you as Beacon File Photo an individual because you negative pressure, violence, Hilliard said. com have something to live up to. and paths you don’t want “Our parents are actually E.J. Hilliard has been working hard this off-season, You only go there to try and to go down because there the initiators, caretakers and trying to stay prepared and motivated. Injuries plague Panthers at season’s end DANIEL BREY fying enough, the Panther defense collegiate level, led the Panthers Finally and most impressive After struggling in a small Divi- Contributing Writer was even worse. with 11 home runs and finished of all this season was the play of sion-1 conference this season, FIU FIU ranked dead last in fielding eighth in the conference with 51 first baseman Rios, who ended the will now transfer over to Confer- Players weren’t the only ones percentage and led the conference runs batted in. season with a .332 batting average, ence USA, which contains far more injured during the Panthers baseball in errors committed. What is most impressive about 20 doubles, nine home runs and 52 competitive teams such as 2003 season. Their record was hurt, too. If pitching and defense wins Garcia is not his ability to hit runs batted in. College World Series Winner Rice “We had the injury bug on us championships, the Panthers are far homeruns in a league now domi- Rios led FIU in almost every University. the whole year,” catcher Aramis from one. nated by the small ball, but his will- statistical category, including FIU will need to improve their Garcia said. “It was hard to develop ingness to compete. errors and was voted Second-Team pitching staff which ranked second a consistent pitching rotation with Garcia and Rios become back- “It was a frustrating year no All National Collegiate Baseball to last, walks allowed which FIU everyone getting hurt.” bone for FIU doubt,” Garcia said. “But we Writers Association (NCBWA) had the most in the Sun Belt, defen- Injuries to ace Mike Ellis and will continue to work hard in the Freshman All-American. sive play ranked dead last and in closer Michael Gomez undoubt- Although the amount of nega- offseason to prepare for next year.” Rios, although limited in some the Sun Belt conference and most edly contributed to a team Earned tives largely outweigh the positives, The second positive for this aspects of his game, demonstrated importantly, health in order to be Run Average of 5.03, which ranked FIU could be optimistic about a Panther team was the recruiting at just 19 years of age exactly what remotely relevant this upcoming second to last in the Sun Belt couple of things: the first being the class, which featured local high his skill set contains. season. Conference which led to the firing performance of Garcia. school players such as Killian’s of pitching coach Drew French Garcia, a Johnny Bench Award Mandy Alvarez and Coral Gables’ Looking forward to Confer- -sports@ after only one year at FIU. semifinalist, which is an award Dillon Maya, and also included ence USA fiusm.com If the team ERA was not terri- given to the best catcher at the freshman standout Edwin Rios. Protests target Confederation Cup match in Rio ENNY BARCHFIELD with Molotov cocktails Rousseff has suffered “People are angry governments reversed the protests. She then underserved areas while Associated Press and powerful fireworks. the brunt of the polit- with Congress, angry hike on public transpor- convened a June 24 promising a five-point Though smaller in ical damage. The first with the terrible hospi- tation fares that sparked meeting with protest plan to focus on public More than 5,000 size, the march was national poll conducted tals and worse schools,” the first protests, but leaders and all the gover- services and corruption. anti-government the latest in a wave of after the protests ignited said Tania Nobrega, a the demonstrators had nors and mayors of The president is protesters marched protests that has spread showed a steep drop in 56-year-old psychol- moved well beyond that capital cities, in which expected to deliver to Sunday near the across this country in her approval rating and ogist protesting near issue. she announced $23 Congress early this Maracana stadium before recent weeks. Many are throws in doubt what had Maracana in Rio. “But On June 21, Rousseff billion in new transporta- week her proposal for a a major international calling the protest move- seemed an easy re-elec- they don’t want Dilma’s delivered a prerecorded tion investments. She also national plebiscite letting soccer match, venting ment the biggest seen tion next year. head. People are sick of prime time speech on TV said she would import citizens vote on political their anger about the here in decades, with Rousseff decided to the status quo here, and that did little to calm the foreign doctors to work in reforms. billions of dollars the more than 1 million not attend Sunday’s final that means they’re fed up Brazilian government people having taken to match of the Confedera- not only with the (ruling is spending on major the streets nationwide on tions Cup football tour- Workers Party) but also sporting events rather the night of June 20. nament, which pits Brazil with all parties.” than public services. The demonstrations against Spain in what’s The demonstrations Sharp clashes broke have dwindled in size and seen as a warm-up for began earlier this month out several hundred frequency. next year’s World Cup to over a 10-cent hike in bus yards away from the Still, the atmo- be hosted in Brazil. and subway fare in Sao stadium before the game sphere was tense outside Other top government Paulo before morphing began, as a minor scuffle Maracana on Sunday. officials and even foot- into a nationwide move- between police and a few Some clusters of ball legend Pele are also ment denouncing a range protesters escalated. protesters tried to break skipping the match in a of problems such as Officers quickly through the security major embarrassment for government corruption, quashed the unrest, perimeter police set-up a government that had poor education and health unleashing a barrage of around the stadium, hoped to use the World care. tear gas canisters and but were pushed back Cup and the 2016 Olym- The sudden outrage stun grenades, scattering and not able to get past pics in Rio to showcase has bewildered the coun- the crowd, but not before authorities. Brazil’s arrival as a global try’s political class. some protesters retaliated President Dilma power. Several city and state Contact Us Nadra Mabrouk BBC Managing Editor [email protected] THE The Beacon – 8 t ay Wednesday, July 3, 2013 A fiusm.com B Rising loan interest rates to affect students, economy

ANDREA SANMIGUEL some kind of compromise or long-time fix so that we don’t have “SGA provides students with a legitimate, representative Contributing Writer to worry about this, said Valines. governing body with substantial resources dedicated to advo- However, Sirven predicts this will be a permanent change if cating for the interest of the students,” said Oliver Diaz-Neda, Subsidized student loan interest rates will increase to 6.8 no further action is taken. SGA director of External Relations. percent, doubling from the 3.4 percent rate students currently “I looked at my options and realized that I have no other Student leaders advocated for a short-term solution with a pay. alternative if I want to get my education,” said Sirven. focus on student need as opposed to partisan politics. Subsidized loans vary for students who have very low Granted, options are available for the struggling borrowers. SGA has presented delegations, Congress members and income and unsubsidized loans are for students whose families The University has asked for the services of Gabriela their staff with statistical data on how a student loan interest can help pay for their education, said Francisco Valines, director Mendez as default prevention coordinator, who specializes rate hike would drastically affect our student population. of Financial Aid. in helping students with questions they may have about their SGA has worked for years on the state and federal level Loans have maintained a 3.4 percent interest rate for about student loans. through delegation trips, initiatives such as Aim Higher, letter four years. A student will pay an additional $1,000 over the life “I advise all the students to borrow conservatively, follow writing campaigns and petitions to increase our visibility profile of a loan. up with the amounts borrowed and the agencies servicing their to those who represent us in Congress and in state legislature, The jump will affect seven million people who will take out student loans,” said Mendez. “The key is to be informed and said Diaz-Neda. a loan this year, but will not impact students who already have reach out in case of economic hardship.” SGA and the Financial Aid Office advise that students loans -- currently 20,000 at the University, according to Valines. The University provides funding available for those who educate themselves on the issues and reaches out to their “The increase will be counter intuitive to the economy and qualify and file their FAFSA on May 1 of every year. It also respective representative or senator to push for the changes they the emphasis that Congress and the president claim to place on encourages students to apply for scholarships, which are listed desire. education,” said graduate student and current unsubsidized loan under the University’s One Stop website. “The best thing for students to do is to be aware of the issues holder Anthony Sirven. “It provides a negative incentive for Besides this, FIU encourages students to contact the school so that decisions like this can be monitored and controlled,” students pursuing an education to rethink their decision.” and the Student Government Association in regards to debt said Valines. The hope is that the government is going to come up with issues. [email protected] Chorale courses harmonize between both campuses VINSON PRESSLEY porary music during the course. world of music requires several hours Campus to BBC and is very optimistic years while in middle school. Salinel Staff Writer The course will be open to all of work a week. about these two courses. said she really likes to sing because members of the FIU community and “A lot of rehearsing, practicing “I have been pleasantly surprised it allows freedom of expression and The shower is no longer the only no experience or audition will be and performing are an integral part of from the positive feedback [from stress release. place where you can hit the high notes required to participate in the ensemble. music,” said Dundas. students and staff]. It is always been a “It comes freely [and] if you have of your favorite songs. Students can sign up now since the The purpose of the ensemble is to good response,” said Dundas. stress, just sing it out,” she said. Starting this fall, students will be courses are already in the catalog. give members of the FIU community Dundas mentioned the bene- If the courses are successful, there able to bring their interest to sing to a Kauffman said those students who who may not be music majors or have fits of joining the ensemble as it will could be a possibility of bigger proj- musical environment. sign up for the ensemble will be taught extensive knowledge about music a provide a “full rich experience” and ects to come. University Chorale with class the technical aspects of music, such as chance to pursue an interest in singing, give students an alternative to singing According to Kauffman, there sections MUN1340, MUN3343 how to read music, how to breathe as was mentioned by Kauffman. in the shower as well as sharper one’s will be a concert at the end of the fall and MUN5345 will be held at the correctly and how to produce sounds, People want to sing but hesitate to do knowledge of music. semester that will include members Biscayne Bay Campus on Tuesdays so they will not be required to have so due to lack of training, Kauffman “I have a powerful belief in the from the ensemble courses as well as from 7 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. in the Wolfe extensive knowledge about music on said. power of choral music. It’s hard to be students who are music majors and University Center Room 100. the first day of class. “Most people who say ‘I can’t in a bad mood when you’re singing,” are in the choir. This concert is sched- Both courses are one credit each Although not much experience is sing,’ just don’t sing because of lack said Kauffman. uled for early December. and will be taught by University required to participate in the ensemble, of experience,” said Kauffman. “Everybody loves music and Kauffman is driven by one goal: “I and Master Chorales Director, Mary hard work is. According to the Divi- Dundas brought up the idea of secretly loves to sing,” said Eleanor want to get everybody singing.” Adelyn Kauffman. Students will be sion of Vocal/Choral Studies Coordi- creating a similar ensemble that was Salinel, a freshman communications exposed to classical as well as contem- nator Robert B. Dundas, entering the already at the Modesto A. Maidique major who sang in a choir for two [email protected] Program studies wetlands from space, begins global conversation

VICTORIA GARCIAS sensing observations, but also incorpo- example, [I want to look] at broader ques- is located at Biscayne Bay Campus and is Contributing Writer rates mathematical models to support tions of climate, population, land use and open to student involvement. its findings on water cycles, vegetation, other changes,” said Miralles-Wilhelm. There are theories that we came from the biomass dynamics and biodiversity. The WaterSCAPES research program [email protected] ocean; whether we did or not, the ocean is Although most of the research is done still a part of us. out of the Florida Keys and Everglades, Everyday we grow and live by Miralles-Wilhelm and his team are surrounding waters hugging the Floridian expanding their research to other parts state. But what do we have to do with these of the world with similar ecosystems. waters? And what do they have anything to “What WaterSCAPES does which is do with us? really cool is that they study wetlands The answers lie within NASA’s from space,” said Elaine Pritzker, coor- Water-Science of Coupled Aquatic Processes dinator of the School of Environment, in Ecosystems from Space program. Arts and Society. “What is neat is that WaterSCAPES’ mission is to discover [Fernando] is a part of a larger effort the connections between humans and the to understand what is going on in our environment. ecosystem and how we are a part of this The program seeks to answer ques- larger system that is changing.” tions regarding how earth is changing and Pritzker said the program has also what the consequences are for life on earth. began work with people in South NASA and the program are researching America. wetland’s water issues, climate and ecosys- “It started this sort of global conver- tems to help answer these questions. sation in our hemisphere by looking at WaterSCAPES Director Fernando how our wetlands and communities are Miralles-Wilhelm recently spoke in a interacting,” said Pritzker. lecture in the beginning of the summer term Miralles-Wilhelm said in the future titled “WaterSCAPES: Exploring Coastal he wants to strengthen the relation- Wetlands from Space” which informed ship between NASA and wetland Photo courtesy of David Lagomasino environments. students about the program and its research. Scenery during a fly over the Everglades going south towards Florida Bay. WaterSCAPES not only uses remote “Taking South Florida as an