Florida International University FIU Digital Commons

The aP nther Press (formerly The Beacon) Special Collections and University Archives

3-30-2009 The Beacon, March 30, 2009 Florida International University

Follow this and additional works at: https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/student_newspaper

Recommended Citation Florida International University, "The Beacon, March 30, 2009" (2009). The Panther Press (formerly The Beacon). 256. https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/student_newspaper/256

This work is brought to you for free and open access by the Special Collections and University Archives at FIU Digital Commons. It has been accepted for inclusion in The aP nther Press (formerly The Beacon) by an authorized administrator of FIU Digital Commons. For more information, please contact [email protected]. A Forum for Free Student Expression at Florida International University Vol. 21, Issue 83 www.fi usm.com Monday, March 30, 2009

PAGE 6, 7

SPOTLIGHT SGC-BBC SPORTS PAGE 12 Medical school speculated Silva withdraws Baseball wins two close games vs. Sun Belt Conference opponent University of to stimulate local economy Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns. candidacy AT THE BAY PAGE 4 ELSIE PUIG SJMC student releases his fi rst sci-fi Staff Writer novel, and aims for the series. This medical school is the kind BARBARA QUIJANO Asst. News Director LIFE! PAGE 9 A new study commissioned by FIU COLUMN: Chris Towers looks at The shows that the new College of Medi- of long term, sustainable econom- Decemberist’s Hazards of Love and fi nds Ana Maria Silva, current president cine will have a large impact on the a genuine concept album on the band’s of the Student Government Council at fourth attempt. local economy by creating more than ic engine South Florida needs ... Biscayne Bay Campus, withdrew her 66,000 jobs and generating more than OPINION PAGE 8 candidacy for her second term as pres- $8.9 billion in a span of 16 years. Modesto A. Maidique ident of SGC-BBC for the 2009-2010 This is according to a recent study FIU, president school year March 27. by Tripp Umbach, a fi rm that special- health related programs. Maidique is awaiting an approval “I don’t look at [the withdrawal] as a izes in assessing the economic impact As the new breeding ground for from state legislators for an additional discouragement, but a different way to of medical centers. a recession-proof health sector, the $11 million for the medical school. explore other opportunities, leading me “Having two medical schools in medical school, which is set to open in Apart from creating jobs, the to my academic future,” Silva said. The University has taken measures to South Florida increases the multi- August, has already created an annual medical school will stimulate the local Silva said she had the opportunity to block online access to peer-to-peer fi le plier effect of the impact on the local sharing. economic impact of more than $100 economy by increasing local and state begin taking classes in the Fall semester economy,” said Thomas Breslin, chair million in the local economy and has sales tax revenue and hiring local for the International Business Honors AT THE BAY PAGE 4 of the Faculty Senate and professor Come relax at the Wellness Center with helped create approximately 100 jobs, construction companies. According program, which is based at UP. To be of international relations, who had free yoga classes and massages! most of which are high-paying profes- to the Umbach study, the school will eligible to be president of SGC-BBC the initial idea of bringing a medical sional positions. also greatly expand the biomedical she needed at least 50 percent of her LIFE! PAGE 9 school to the University. French Club promotes language, culture “This medical school is the kind industry to $5.7 billion annually by classes to be taken in the campus. The Academic Health Sciences for all. of long term, sustainable economic 2025. “Not being able to run is an oppor- Center is the building complex that engine South Florida needs at a time The new AHSC will return nearly tunity for me to explore other options OPINION PAGE 8 will house the College of Medicine, Has America become less Christian? when jobs are disappearing daily,” $12 to the state in both direct and indi- and possibilities at FIU,” she said. “ It Florida Department of Health, College Featuring a point and counterpoint. said President Modesto Maidique in a rect tax revenue for every $1 invested doesn’t mean I’m going to stop being of Nursing and Health Sciences, an recent statement. involved and and continue my leader- ambulatory care center and other UPCOMING EVENTS MED SCHOOL, page 2 ship at FIU.” Philosophy Club Meeting, Today, 3:30 p.m. : Get your Socratic method on and wax philosophical with your similarly minded peers at this club’s LIGHTS, CAMERA, DRAW Athletics feels eff ects weekly meetings. FIU Yoga Club Meeting, Today, 7:45 p.m.: Unfurl your mat and relax your mind and body as you try of massive budget cuts the Downward Facing Dog and the Bharadvaja’s Twist. CHARLIE GRAU compliance will not be affected. Students For A Free Tibet, Tuesday, 3:30 p.m.: Join together with this Senior Staff Writer “We’re in business to educate worldwide organization that looks to our young men and women and our end Chinese occupation of Tibet. Public and private universi- No. 1 priority is to be in compli- Miami Dade County Fair & Expo, All ties have seen their budgets shrink ance with all NCAA rules and regu- week, 3 p.m.: Sure, you hate that they over the past year and collegiate lations,” Garcia said. “We have a take up our parking lots and cause traf- fi c, but who can resist greasy chicken on athletics isn’t being spared. process of studying and analyzing a stick and stomach-churning rides? On March 24, the Athletics every option to make sure that our For the complete calendar, please see page 10 Department announced it was student athletes are not adversely or visit FIUSM.com/calendar. cutting $1 million from its oper- affected. It’s still our responsi- ating budget when the new fiscal bility to make sure that our student WEATHER year begins on July 1. athletes have all the resources they MONDAY The budget for next year will be need to be successful on the field Partly cloudy approximately $22 million. and in the classroom.” LOW: 69 HIGH: 82 “We’ve been able to avoid this Garcia insisted that cuts would TUESDAY for a year and a half, and now it’s not affect phase two of FIU Foot- Scattered showers time for Athletics to make some ball Stadium, the fieldhouse, and LOW: 71 HIGH: 83 cuts,” said Athletic Director Pete said it is on schedule and will be WEDNESDAY Garcia. “Times are difficult all completed July 1. Isolated t-storms over, but we are not going to use Athletics has been able to avoid LOW: 71 HIGH: 84 this as an excuse.” budget cuts because it has seen In order to trim the budget, new streams of revenue from the CONTACTS Garcia said there would be layoffs football stadium, ticket sales, Editor in Chief ...... 305-348-1580 and cuts within the department. concession sales, sponsorships and chris.necuze@fi usm.com “This is a process where we athletic fee increases in 2007 and UP Offi ce ...... 305-348-2709 news@fi usm.com are going to analyze everything 2008. BBC Offi ce ...... 305-919-4722 and figure out from our staff and But with the economy slip- JAVIER DE LA VEGA/THE BEACON bbc@fi usm.com senior staff where the layoffs need ping, businesses and consumers Tips & Corrections ...... 305-348-2709 SMILE!: Jennifer Molina, an elementary major, gets her caricature to come from,” Garcia said. are spending less and it’s affecting tips@fi usm.com done while SPC promotes Uproar Week. No sports are going to be cut and Advertising ...... 305-348-6994 advertising@fi usm.com Garcia said academic support and ATHLETICS, page 12 2 The Beacon – Monday, March 30, 2009 NEWS www.fi usm.com

NEWS FLASH Black union seeks place in council FIU DAVID BARRIOS New acting dean announced Senior Staff Writer Our organization would seek to unite The dean of the College of Architecture and the Arts, Members of the Black Juan Antonio Bueno, is stepping down and Associate Student Union packed into organizations like the ... Pan-African Orga- Dean Brian Schriner was announced acting dean for the University Park Student the college. Government Council cham- nization, hopefully from both campuses, to Bueno is stepping down due to health conditions, bers with questions and according to a memorandum sent to the FIU community proposals at hand for the be represented under this one banner. by Provost Ronald Berkman. University-wide Council. Dean Bueno will continue as a faculty member in the Their main request Bruno Phanord to instate the BSU as a Department of Landscape Architecture. SGA Student Services, chairperson “The search committee for the dean of the College of governing council in SGC- UP was passed after an hour Architecture and the Arts will soon identify candidates for 154-day requirement to run under the CSO, falling under A future meeting between of debate during a March 25 campus visits in late April and early May,” said Berkman as SGC president. them for funding. CSO, the SGA executive meeting. in the statement. Earlier in the meeting, “Our organization would branch and the new council During the same meeting, Denzel Burnside, CEO seek to unite organizations would need to be held to a revised version of the LOCAL of DB3 TV, and Bruno like the Haitian Students determine whether to move Student Government Asso- Phanord, SGA Student Association and Pan-African related organizations under ciation constitution was Tri-Rail fare might increase Services chairperson, repre- Organization, hopefully the new council. These orga- introduced by Kenasha Paul, sented the stance of the from both campuses, to be nizations represent different the SGC vice president for A 25 percent increase in the Tri-Rail fare is being BSU as SGC-UP President represented under this one interests in the student body. Biscayne Bay Campus. considered by the South Florida Regional Transportation Arthur J. Meyer raised ques- banner,” Phanord said in an Governing councils A fi nal draft has yet to be Authority, who runs the train system. tions about reassigning clubs interview with The Beacon in SGA currently include agreed on and is tentatively The decision will be made after SFRTA holds a public from the Council for Student after the meeting. Panther Rage and CSO. set to be introduced to the hearing. Organizations to a new Meyer supported the Among the responsibil- ballot for the April 1 and 2 If they decide in an increase, it will be the fi rst time governing council. BSU being instated as a ities of the new governing elections. in 14 years that Tri-Rail fare is raised. “What we have here is the governing council but felt council would be to fund Among the changes made The Tri-Rail is funded by Miami-Dade, Broward and old case of a tenant going to that restrictions should be organizations that would be were the removal of the Palm Beach counties as well as the state. court against their landlord. required with the move of directly under them, with comptroller from the UWC, We’re asking the court to organizations from the CSO funding coming directly to be replaced by the senate Florida lawmakers consider refusing stimulus not force us to deal with the to the new BSU council. from SGA; attending execu- speaker pro tempes during money for the unemployed landlord (CSO) who is not “I just think that we need tive branch meetings of SGA UWC meetings. giving us enough funding,” to evaluate the effi ciency and reporting directly to Proposed changes that Lawmakers proposed not to accept the $1 billion in Burnside said during the of a move like this,” Meyer them while also establishing were dismissed included an stimulus cash that could benefi t 250,000 unemployed. meeting. said. a lecture series in the same increased cumulative GPA The main reason are the conditions established in the Under its original request, It was agreed later in the vein as CSO. requirement for presidential stimulus package. Lawmakers said the package stipulates the BSU asked to have orga- meeting that BSU would candidates from 2.5 to 2.75 that the state has to pass a new law that would extend the nizations including the Pan- become its own governing and the elimination of the BSU, page 3 benefi ts to unemployed as well as pool for those eligible African Club, currently council. to receive benefi ts. Furthermore, the federal offer will only be valid until the end of the year, leaving the cost to the Florida School revenue to benefi t Sweetwater government to cover. The state’s unemployment rate rose in January to 8.1 percent. MED SCHOOL, page 1 nity through the Neighbor- accommodate for the young to accommodate the growth No decisions have been made about the whether to hood Help program, which is professionals, students and of the school,” Breslin said. receive the stimulus money. in the ongoing operations of designed to help families in professors who will be coming “Essentially, the medical the FIU College of Medicine, underserved communities. to the new College of Medi- school will be a shot in the arm the study said. According to the study, the cine,” said Manuel M. Maroño, for the housing market here, by – Compiled by Julia Cardenuto It will also greatly pioneering program will give mayor of Sweetwater. boosting revenue fl ow to the contribute to health care cost underprivileged families in Sweetwater looks to piggy local economy.” savings in the local commu- South Florida access to educa- back off the projected stimulus Aside from the students tion and preventive health of the medical school to develop coming outside Miami-Dade care and save South Florida condos, medical offi ces, County, the College of Medi- taxpayers hundreds of millions retail and business centers cine will hire specialists in in health care costs by 2020. catering to the new demo- their fi elds, and when patients The AHSC, which will graphic, specifi cally prospec- with unusual and challenging stand in the northeast corner tive students and professors, complications cannot get treat- E-BOARD AND PRODUCTION STAFF INFORMATION of University Park campus Maroño mentioned. ment elsewhere, those patients across the street from the City The economic prospects of will come to South Florida, EDITOR IN CHIEF JONATHAN ALPERT The Beacon is published on of Sweetwater, will help forge Sweetwater will benefi t by the Breslin explained. CHRISTOPHER NECUZE Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays ASST. PHOTO EDITORS during the Fall and Spring semesters a mutually benefi cial partner- increase in licensing fees of the “In 30 years, FIU will be PRODUCTION MANAGER GIO GUADARRAMA and once a week during Summer B. One ship between the University new business that will eventu- the UCLA of the East Coast,” copy per person. Additional copies are 25 JESSICA MAYA and Sweetwater . ally be springing up. Breslin said, alluding to BBC PHOTO EDITOR cents. The Beacon is not responsible for NATHAN VALENTINE the content of ads. Ad content is the sole “In the hope of turning “For at least 10 years, UCLA’s medical center which NEWS DIRECTOR responsibility of the company or vendor. the City of Sweetwater into a the City of Sweetwater had is ranked in the top three hospi- JULIA CARDENUTO PAGE DESIGNERS The Beacon is an editorially independent college town, we are going to been trying to reinvent itself tals in the United States. BBC MANAGING EDITOR ANGIE ESPOSITO, REBECCA BURTON, newspaper partially funded by student and services fees that are appropriated PAMELA DUQUE MIKE COSTA, SARA BONE, CHRIS TOW- by Student Government. LIFE! EDITOR ERS, CHRIS ADAMS, JASMYN ELLIOTT The Beacon offi ce is located in SUSANA RODRIGUEZ the Graham Center, room 210, at the COPY CHIEF CORRECTIONS SPORTS DIRECTOR University Park campus. Questions PAULA GARCIA regarding display advertising and bill- ANDREW JULIAN On the March 23 article titled, “Funes unanimously elected as new election com- COPY EDITORS ing should be directed to the Advertis- PINION DITOR missioner,” it was stated that SGC-UP Chief Justice Leonard Goenaga said that SGC O E CARLA GARCIA, ASHLYN TOLEDO, JOSH ing Manager at 305-348-2709. Mailing IRIS FEBRES address: Graham Center, room 210, was an “arcane” title to refer to the Senate. Goenaga actually said that the term was TANDLICH, ROBERT VICENS, MARIANA PHOTO EDITOR Miami, FL 33199. Fax number is 305- “archaic.” PADILLA, DAIANA KUCAWCA, JASONN 348-2712. Biscayne Bay Campus is VICTORIA LYNCH In that same article it was stated that Section 2 Part B of the SGC-UP Elections GONZALEZ, STEPHANIE PI 305-919-4722. Offi ce hours are 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Code was being discussed, the actual article being debated was Section 2 Part E. ASST. NEWS DIRECTORS E-mail: Beacon@fi u.edu. Visit us online RECRUITMENT DIRECTOR JORGE VALENS, BARBARA QUIJANO at: www.fi usm.com In the article titled, “New policy eases travel to Cuba,” published March 27, it is ROSALYN DELGADO incorrectly stated that Giarcarlo Sopo worked on Obama’s campaign. BBC LIFE! EDITOR In the same article, it is written that Uva Aragon “sees having more accurate polls PARADISE AFSHAR BUSINESS MANAGER an essential.” The sentence should have said that Aragon said she believes that it is TATIANA CANTILLO ASST. LIFE! EDITORS essential to also include unregistered Cubans in the polls. IRECTOR OF TUDENT EDIA CHRIS TOWERS D S M ROBERT JAROSS The Beacon will gladly change any errors. Call our UP offi ce at 305-348-2709 or ASST. SPORTS DIRECTORS ASST. DIRECTOR OF STUDENT MEDIA BBC at 305-919-4722. SERGIO BONILLA, JONATHAN RAMOS, ALFRED SOTO www.fi usm.com NEWS The Beacon – Monday, March 30, 2009 3 Car wash service begins News literacy class aims to 90-day preliminary run correct poor research habits

JONATHAN DAVILA Transportation. respectively. CHERYL MALONE seminars. students a better under- Staff Writer Students who wish All washes include tire Staff Writer “The faculty pays to standing of how we receive to have their car washed shining and a vacuuming. provide honors students with the information,” she said. A car wash service simply need to drop their “It’s probably not some- Professor of Journalism a particular kind of course,” But news awareness began March 30 on the fi rst vehicle off in the desig- thing I would use. It’s like and Mass Communications, Northup said. “We must is only the fi rst half of fl oor of the Gold Garage, nated area. the valet parking,” said Frederick Blevens, will have a topic with a variety Blevens’ design. The mate- becoming the second pilot “Once the wash is junior international relations be teaching an innovative of disciplines.” rial covered in the Fall will program implemented by completed, the car will major Diego Sarmiento, course in the Honors College The news literacy class contribute to the second half Parking and Transportation be moved to a convenient who drives his vehicle to based on news literacy. will offer an understanding of the class goal, which will this semester. location in the garage,” campus. “It seems like an News Literacy: Building of journalistic principles, be fulfi lled in the Spring The service will run for Foster said. inappropriate luxury.” Community Through Digital interpretations and the through interaction with a 90 days, at which time it Prices range from $15 to The revenue made from Media, will be offered importance of journalism chosen community. will be evaluated to deter- $125, depending on vehicle the pilot program will be to third and fourth-year in America, and will allow “The Internet has really mine the future of the size and the services used to support new food students within the Honors for experience in the fi eld negatively impacted two service. desired. and retail venues on campus, College starting this Fall alongside the community important pillars of society: “As you enter through Regular washes cost $15 according to Foster. semester at Biscayne Bay the east entrance [of the for small vehicles and $20 Business Services did Campus. Gold Garage], the area for large vehicles. not return a call seeking “The idea is to train Th e Internet has really negatively im- will be located to the left A wash and wax costs information about the people how to consume the and clearly marked,” said $50 for small and $60 for company contracted in time media,” said Blevens. “With pacted two important pillars of soci- Bill Foster, executive large, and full detailing for the publication of this the bombardment of infor- ety: news media and libraries. director of Parking and will cost $95 and $125, article. mation, news and so called Frederick Blevens, professor ‘news and liability level’ is Journalism and Mass Communications pretty weak.” Blevens designed the course syllabus after having and media, according to the news media and libraries,” observed the pioneering of class syllabus. Blevens said. the course at the Univer- While the class is In order to unite the two sity of New York and Stony restricted to junior and senior together, Blevens wants Brook, where the same students within the Honors to bring the students to concept of news literacy has College, it is intended for a a community, working been taught successfully for wide variety of students. through a public library, four years. The Honors College is while properly accessing “I came up with the based on interdisciplinary media to the public. It will phrase ‘practice safe news.’ study, Northup explained. depend on library space and It reminds me of a meat “Because of that , we will computer access to properly market on the Web with really enhance the thinking give training or classes to really contaminated stuff out abilities of students,” the public. there – you can get infected, Northup said. “It meets in The end goal is to not your computer – I mean with course curriculum.” successfully build a sustain- your brain can get infected English major Claudia able network of community with all the stuff out there Carcach believes that the media, helping the new age that’s not credible,” Blevens course will be benefi cial for of information gathering, said. students. according to the course According to Blevens’ “Through the course, syllabus. syllabus, the course includes I think I would be able Although Blevens both Fall and Spring semester to learn how to differen- designed the syllabus, he requirements going hand-in- tiate an opinion from actual intends to have student inter- hand with each other, as both facts,” Carcach said. “The action and fi eldwork with are necessary for the success world today is really conve- the community. of the student. nient if you want to know It is under this intensely Interim dean for the about something, people just student-oriented project that Honors College, Lesley Google it.” the course remains, with Northup, explained the Psychology major Elaine further design chosen by the layout of the Honors Nieves agrees with Carcach course students. College’s yearly design. on the relevance of the “The advantages of this The fi rst and second class in a world of growing is that the people who learn years in the Honors College technology. news literacy will become, are based on team-structured “It is a great way of probably, dedicated news classes, while the third and getting students engaged users – which means they are fourth become more fl ex- in what is happening in our customers of journalism,” ible for students, with more world, as well as giving Blevens said. Black Student Union takes stance at SGC-UP meeting

BSU, page 2 month. During that meeting, it was deter- mined that the BSU would receive funding The members of the UWC include the during their respective BBC and UP budget presidents, vice presidents, senate speakers hearings. and comptrollers for both campuses. In “I want you to understand that we will most JOIN OUR STAFF! attendance were Kenasha Paul, SGC-UP likely be expecting Activities and Services Vice President Paige LaPointe, SGC-BBC fees increasing. However, we cannot discuss President Ana Maria Silva, SGC-UP Senate this matter at this meeting because this is not Stop by one of our offi ces Speaker Jean Roseme and SGC-BBC Comp- a budget hearing. Remember that the budget troller Carlos Becerra-Pineda. Meyer called committee also has two other members who located in GC 210 and in while away on business in Tallahassee. are not here,” said Silva, who was chairing SGC-UP Comptroller Robert Chung was the meeting. WUC 124. unavailable. Silva stated that the BSU could expect The BSU also asked why they did not more funding at the time of the budget receive any funding from SGA during the hearings. University-wide budget hearings earlier this Contact Us Pamela Duque BBC Managing Editor pamela.duque@fi usm.com AT THE BAY The Beacon – 4 www.fi usm.com Monday, March 30, 2009

Free massage, yoga SPRING FLING ‘09 classes off ered

LORENA ESTRADA missed a week.” Staff Writer Because the center has been overwhelmed with students The Wellness Center offers seeking massage therapy, students free yoga classes and massage have been limited to one massage therapy to students who want to per week, according to Dona relieve some stress and relax at Walcott, assistant director of the the Biscayne Bay Campus. Wellness Center. As part of University Health “We want to give everyone an Services, which provides profes- opportunity to attend,” she said. sional, accessible and cost-effec- Ten minute massages are avail- tive primary care services to regis- able on Mondays at the Fitness tered students at FIU, students Center from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 CYNTHIA FRANCISQUINI/THE BEACON have the option to attend a one- p.m. Fifteen-minute massages are and-a-half hour yoga class with available on Wednesdays at the WILD ‘N CRAZY: (Top) Kemlie Al- yoga instructor Bonnie Quiceno. Wellness Center from 11:00 a.m.- exandre, business administration Students can also receive a 10- 1:00 p.m. and are by appointment freshman, faces off against Ta- 15 minute massage session for only. meca Smith, hospitality manage- physical and mental relaxation, “She can only fit so many ment junior, in an All Star Events’ where licensed massage therapist people between those two hours oversized boxing ring hosted by Shari Little provides a “healing of the day,” Walcott said. SPC- BBC for Spring Fling ‘09 in touch” to students at no cost. For those students who feel Panther Square. “Massage therapy is the best that 10-15 minutes just isn’t long (Left) Kamila Cardenas, belly thing for students because of the enough, Little also offers a full- dancer/snake charmer for All tension that builds up from the hour massage for $30. Star Events, holds an albino ber- stress of studying and the long “You can’t find anything better mise python while Delio Morato, hours of sitting at a desk,” said than that,” said Little, who noted graduate student and Sholom Little. “I target areas such as shoul- that the price range of a one-hour Neisten, a junior majoring in biol- ders, neck and back to relieve and massage is typically between $75 ogy and psychology, engage in help prevent knotting.” to $100. a meet-and-greet with the snake, Whether it’s to relax for a Little also emphasized the March 27 in Panther Square. while in between classes or importance of stretching when relieve some stress, students like it comes to lowering one’s level Ulises Guerrero, a junior political of stress. Students who regularly science major who works at the work out at the Fitness Center or Fitness Center, have taken advan- that are interested in releasing tage of the opportunity offered on stress while burning calories at campus. the same time, can take advantage “I’ve gone to get a massage of the free yoga classes offered. in between classes several times. Christie Maimo, a senior jour- It’s great to get a free massage to nalism major, recently found release some tension during these out about the free yoga classes [hard] economic times,” Guer- and said she plans to attend next rero said. week’s classes. JACOB KAISER/THE BEACON Little has been working at BBC “I used to go to yoga at least since massage therapy became three times a week last year, but available to students in 2004. I stopped because of my school Throughout the years, she’s dedi- and work schedule,” said Maimo. ment. The practice begins with a health fees and are co-sponsored To set up an appointment for cated her time to helping students “But now that I know they’re warmup of all major muscles and by University Health Services a free massage session, students relieve stress, forming a consis- available to us here on campus joints, and then moves into more and Biscayne Bay Recreation. can contact the Wellness Center tent clientele. for free, I’m so excited to start challenging, long-held postures Yoga classes are available on at (305) 919-5307. “So far, I have students that again.” that build core strength, endur- Mondays from 3:00 p.m.- 4:30 Students interested in a full- have been coming to me every Yoga consists of a dynamic ance and flexibility. p.m., Wednesdays from 10:00 hour massage therapy can person- Wednesday for the last three flowing sequence of postures Free yoga classes and massage a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and Thursdays ally contact Sherry Little at (305) years,” she said. “They haven’t that link breathing and move- therapy are included in students’ from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. 302-1091. FIU student publishes sci-fi book, aims for full series

IVAN FLORES [in Twilight] so I wanted to see if I could write reality] the characters are in control. I wanted Contributing Writer something like that,” Macumber said. Th ere are times when my it to move in one direction, but my characters The novel is about Rion Hart, a young man energy is drained ... You moved me somewhere else,” Macumber said, Jason Macumber, a Sarasota, Fla. native who discovers his life is a fabrication. Part of He also said that balancing school, work and senior public relations major has just a secret government project, Rion is injected wonder if there is even a and the writing of his book was a challenge. published his fi rst book, Obscure Origins, with alien DNA, and has lived his life as part point. If anyone will read it “There are times when my energy is March 19. of a virtual reality simulation. drained. I pour myself into the book and I “Obscure Origins is a science fi ction The images that he thought were his life or will be interested ... don’t think I can do this because of school, tale for young adults. It’s sci-fi because it is were actually a computer generated program. Jason Macumber, senior work and life,” said Macumber. “You wonder based around the Roswell mythology,” said The book was published by PublishAmerica public relations major if there is even a point. If anyone will read it Macumber, referring to a Roswell, N.M. UFO and Macumber said the process was anything or will be interested in the story.” sighting. “This story stands out because there but easy. Macumber has been writing consistently Macumber hopes that his novel will isn’t really [any] young adult sci-fi , it all leans “I sent query letters to 165 agents and for the past six or seven years, but writing become as popular as the Twilight series, and toward romance,” Macumber said. publishers. I received 80 rejections, 10 has been a part of his life since elementary he is currently planning a book tour during the After reading the Twilight series by responses, fi ve asking for the fi rst three chap- school. summer. Stephenie Meyer, he decided to write his own ters and fi ve requesting the whole manu- According to him, he struggled a lot Macumber’s intentions include making coming-of-age story about letting go of the script,” said Macumber. “It’s a really hard because the people around him didn’t under- Obscure Origins into a series, and is currently past and overcoming the future. business to break into, you don’t really realize stand what it means to write a book. “I enjoyed the strength of the storytelling it until you dive into it.” “[People] think the writer is in control. [In BOOK, page 5 www.fi usm.com AT THE BAY The Beacon – Monday, March 30, 2009 5 Twilight-inspired book by student hits bookshelves

BOOK, page 4 Christmas 2009. about a terminally ill patient whose last dying in Asian studies and hopes to one day teach “I’ve gotten such great feedback, that wish is to spend a week in Tokyo. There, she English in Japan. working on the sequel, tentatively titled it’s enough of a drive to fi nish the rest of the meets the love of her life. “Writing for me is my way of de-stressing. Guardian Rising. series, even if only 30 or 40 people have read “It’s completely different than Origins,” It’s my way of channeling my creativity. No “It’s going to be more action-packed and it and enjoyed it,” Macumber said. said Macumber. “I want people to know that matter what obstacles I have, I’ll see through some of the characters won’t make it to the But he is not only working on sci-fi . even at the end of their lives, they can still to getting the story out,” he said. third installment,” he said. Macumber is also working on a romance fi nd true love.” Obscure Origins can be purchased at any He hopes for the sequel to be published by novel titled Seven Nights In Tokyo, which is Macumber plans to get a master’s degree major bookstore for $27.95. ‘Be Hip Be Fit Series’ aims to address healthy eating

NATALYA COHEN Elias Bardawil, director of and height. Contributing Writer Campus Recreation and Warren Porter and Azard also tested Shaw, assistant director of Campus students’ fat percentage with a Students went to the Biscayne Recreation, suggested Nusrath use body mass index calculator to Bay Campus Recreation Center on the Rec Center to host the event. determine whether students were March 26 to eat chocolate brownie “I am doing an internship at fi t, average, unfi t, overweight or bars. the Recreation Center and I felt underweight. The brownies were to promote that it was fi nally the time for me Free food and pamphlets were fi tness, health and overall to give, in the most constructive funded by the Recreation Center. wellness. way, to the school. I feel like I’m Nusrath, however, printed and “These are natural, 100-calorie giving something back not only to designed all the information for brownies,” said nutrition science the school, but to the students,” students walking by. senior Noor Nusrath. Nusrath said. The monitor provides a bioelec- SERGIO MONTEALEGRE/THE BEACON Nusrath hosted the “Be Hip Be Ronicha Azard, senior health trical impedance analysis which is Fit Series,” a program she coordi- science major and Enidra Porter, used for estimating body compo- nated to inform students about the junior nursing major, helped sition, distinguishing water weight HEALTHY MEASURES: (Top) different ways of living a healthier Nusrath give away fl iers and free and subtracting other factors Noor Nusrath (center), intern lifestyle. evaluations. which may misconstrue one’s idea in the Rec Center at BBC, Her inspiration came from the Students also received of their ideal body weight. helps Denea Atta King (left), students. brochures with portion control Among the students signing up hospitality management ju- “I worked continuously from tips, meal plan methods, free pins was Carl Derek Boniface, a fi tness nior, and Vivianne Medina Monday and thought I needed to from the recreational facility and center member whose wife, Ashley (right), hospitality manage- create something to make people nutrition assessment forms. Boniface, is an event management ment junior, measure their aware,” Nusrath said. “I walked The forms asked students major. body mass index with the around campus and got to know details about their lifestyle, such He was not happy about his BMI calculator. more of the students. Honestly, as the amount of water consumed weight. (Left) Enidra Porter, nursing the students were most helpful in per day, number of fruit and vege- “I have got to lose a little,” major junior, adjusts the the process and were determined tables servings per day, snacks Boniface said. scale for Carl Derek Boni- to offer their assistance. That was consumed on a regular basis, Others, however, were not too face, fi tness center member amazing.” amount of carbonated beverages keen on stepping onto the scale. and non-FIU student, at the The Wellness Center sponsored consumed per day and amount “I haven’t worked out in a “Be Hip Be Fit Series” out- Nusrath’s mission and printed the of exercise and nutrition goals. while,” said Angela Thomas, a side the Wellness Center. posters to promote the event. Students were also asked their age hospitality graduate student. NATALYA COHEN/THE BEACON UNIVERSITY PARK THE BEACON BISCAYNE BAY PRESIDENTIAL TICKET do. This is mainly because there is ability on part of the administra- ty’s Student Government Council at PRESIDENTIAL TICKET doing and also get input from students Carlos “JC” Remedios for the Student CANDIDATES (UNOPPOSED) actually little members of SGA can tion for using these new monies to University Park. The platforms these as well as getting them more involved. Government Council vice presidency do to address this as they have virtu- ensure the greatest benefit to the young candidates present are ambi- CANDIDATES (1 SEAT) She also said that every senator vote at the Biscayne Bay Campus was not ally no say in matters of parking and student body,” Autiello wrote in a tious, but they must keep in mind will be made available in the Web site, a difficult one for The Beacon. After Anthony Rionda (P) transportation. statement submitted to The Beacon. what measures are actually feasible to Sholom Neistein not only because of transparency , but several attempts to obtain the platform By instituting a point to point “A lot of good things will come from implement during their time in office. also because she feels that the students of the other candidate, Christin “Cici” Mykaelle Figueiredo (VP) PantherTram system, as Rionda has these tuition and fee increases but It is refreshing to see that the Kenasha Paul have the right to know how their elected Battle , The Beacon received no response suggested he will do, students will not without significant sacrifice from majority of the candidates for Lower officials are representing them. from the candidate, and was also unable Since the race for the UP presi- have the option of parking further many students.” Division Representative are pledging In what was probably the most diffi- Paul plans on joining forces with the to speak and interview her about the dency and vice presidency is uncon-UPaway from the heart of campus (for The Beacon believes Jimenez’s support toward University-wide cult decision it had to make, The Beacon Vice Provost Office at BBC as well as plans she has for SGC-BBC if she were tested, The Beacon has decided not example, Panther Garage) and still plans for campus safety would imme- “green” initiatives. is endorsing Kenasha Paul for the presi- the Faculty Senate to reach a greater to be elected. to officially endorse the only candi- make it to their class in the Graham diately benefit students that attend Daniel Gonzalez intends to dency of the Biscayne Bay Campus. number of students and fulfill their However, after speaking with Reme- dates running, Anthony Rionda and Center in a reasonable amount of classes at night and may be vulner- “research and support any legislation Paul, the current Student Govern- needs of better advising and involve- dios about his platform, The Beacon has Mykaelle Figueiredo. After consid- time, without having to allow an extra able to attack or theft because of UP’s that comes to [SGC] about increasing ment Council - BBC vice president, is ment on campus. enough reasons to recommend him. ering Rionda and Figueiredo’s plat- 20 minutes for walking. parkland design. the number of recycling bins on running against Sholom Neistein, SGC- She strives to bring back to BBC A clear picture of what issues char- form, however, The Beacon feels Rionda also plans on addressing “I will continue to work with the campus,” according to a statement BBC senate speaker, and The Beacon free printing in the computer labs acterize BBC is key to determine what that their initiatives are in line with student service problems, such as University Department Police to he provided to The Beacon. Chaluja feels that both candidates are extremely and improve library services, such as the campus and its students need. We what we feel is the best interest of the revamping the CSO point system, a implement programs such as the secu- points out in her platform that “many qualified for the position. Both have opening the graduate students reserved believe that Remedios, after three years University and its students. problem that has lead to some clubs rity awareness programs which imple- want to recycle but don’t want to go years of experience in student govern- rooms for any student during midterms of involvement in SGA, holds this key. Both Rionda and Figueiredo losing funding they had legitimately ments campus escorts, make sure out of their way to do so” and wishes to ment and are dedicated individuals, who and finals. His priorities include the improve- demonstrated a mastery of the issues earned. Designated club meeting blue-light phones in all parking areas increase the number of recycling bins we feel will be strong voices and leaders On the green initiative, Paul will ment of advising services, the consis- and their ideas are both feasible and spaces will also attract more students are made visible, indoor emergency on campus. Whether Chaluja really for the student body. fight against printing thousands of fliers tency of “Go Green” efforts on campus, address the issues. The candidates’ to the clubs themselves, as they know telephones in all classrooms and could “work closely with the mayor In a much disputed assessment, The and will work to implement an informa- the appropriate use of funds and the experience in SGC-UP – Rionda as exactly where to go. Overall, The provide presentations to students and of Miami-Dade, Carlos Alvarez,” Beacon thinks that Paul is the right tive channel with SGA updates on the equal representation of the diverse current President Arthur Meyer’s chief Beacon feels that SGA taking a more parents,” Jimenez wrote in a statement though, remains unknown. Regard- candidate because of her grand yet real- televisions in the shuttles from BBC to demographics, including but not limited of staff and Figueiredo as director direct role in CSO and other SGA submitted to The Beacon. less, saving energy and promoting on- istic plans for SGA. She outlined specific University Park. She wants SGA offi- to different religions, ethnicities, gender, of community relations and Public councils will lead to more stream- The Beacon also feels Ramirez’s campus recycling should be a priority goals to be met and based on those, we cials to talk more to students rather sexual orientations and legal statuses. Health senator – complement the indi- lined and uniform operating proce- plans to inform students of readily for student government. think she will be the best leader for the than simply printing fliers and putting The Beacon also believes his strate- vidual goals they have set for them- dures, making these entities all the available services such as academic Most of the candidates also cited students at BBC. banners up all across campus. gies are adequate to pursue his goals. selves next year. more efficient. advising, on-campus recycling and parking to be a critical concern that Although Neistein plans on rede- Paul believes that the relationship Remedios’ planned method of The Beacon is glad to see Rionda The Beacon looks forward to campus life programs are grounded affects the student body. Ybanez signing and updating the SGC-BBC between SGC-BBC and SGC-UP is reaching students to learn and better meet is interested in increasing the trans- working with Rionda and Figueiredo goals that can be met and would noted the parking situation but also Web site often, as well as pushing for the key framework for a stronger and their needs is elemental yet effective. parency of SGC-UP and that he has in the coming year and holding them directly benefit students. mentioned other issues pertaining to green initiatives and fighting for greater successful SGA and will work toward His intentions of speaking to students clearly defined steps to achieving it. to the promises they are making the “My platform is essentially about the garages, expressing a desire to transparency, The Beacon feels that Paul achieving a mutually beneficial rela- one-on-one, and making eye contact According to his platform, Rionda student body. Should they manage to taking the concerns of students and “work with maintenance crews on presented more concrete, specific and tionship with SGC-UP. and shaking their hands to introduce seeks to keep students abreast of what correctly implement everything they finding solutions for them. I believe campus to ensure that elevators are attainable goals to achieve what was Although Neistein has great and himself and his platform is not only the is going on in the council through a have set out to do, the ’09-’10 year SGA should be in constant commu- working properly and that bathrooms promised in her platform. much needed ideas that are long overdue personal touch that will allow students regularly updated Web site with infor- looks to be a promising one for both nication with the students,” Ramirez are clean.” Paul is a political science major who in SGA, The Beacon feels strongly to feel and understand that SGC-BBC is mation such as meeting minutes and SGC-UP and students overall. wrote in a statement submitted to The Chaluja said, “Obviously we have lobbied several times not only in Talla- that Paul will keep her word and bring at their service, but also follows Reme- senators’ voting records. Beacon. “Essentially I want to make no space or money to build more hassee but also in Washington and has change, accountability and transparency dios’ intentions of a green campaign. Rionda also seeks to publish video SENATOR-AT-LARGE our established services more effective parking garages, so why not attack the a strong knowledge of other student to SGA as well as bring the student body Instead of printing an undetermined and audio of important meetings so and well known, and make the college problem from another angle?” governments across the nation. Based together and keep them more involved amount of fliers that will eventually they are available to students 24 hours CANDIDATES (3 SEATS) experience everything it should be for Chaluja suggested increasing on this, she recently rewrote the entire on campus. end up in the trash can, Remedios’ plan a day as well as further engaging all students.” funding for the current PantherTram, SGA constitution in order to have a solid of walking around campus with the students through the Internet via Nicholas Autiello The Beacon feels Jimenez’s work the University-wide transportation and more consistent guideline for SGA VICE PRESIDENTIAL students he will represent is consistent Twitter, Facebook, etc. Increasing the as a senator for the College of Arts service spearheaded by current SGC- to conduct business and to have a more with both his plan for continuing the Yuniel Molina transparency of SGA and ensuring and Sciences and both Autiello’s and UP president Arthur “A.J.” Meyer. But organized, based in real-world politics TICKET green initiative at BBC, and of seeking that all students have the capability Helena Ramirez Ramirez’s experiences ranging from in January 2009, The Beacon reported student government in our University. CANDIDATES (1 SEAT) to improve and obtain a better advising of checking up on their elected offi- internships to senatorships guaran- that a new parking garage was in the She has been a leader in SGA since system for students, one that follows the Stephanie Jimenez cials is something that has been a long tees that the UP community will be works, which would be built next to 2005 and has shown her commitment to first characteristic of customer service: time coming and, should he accom- Robert Quintana in experienced hands throughout the the Red Garage. represent the student body. Christin “Cici” Battle individual attention. plish his outlined goals, Rionda will Paul believes in transparency and upcoming and transformative 2009- All of the candidates must continue Juan Carlos Remedios The Beacon believes Remedios’ goal have set the bar high for future SGA will redesign and make better use of the The Beacon endorses Nicholas 2010 school year. to be informed of initiatives the of an approachable, user-friendly SGC- administrations. SGC-BBC Web site in order to inform Autiello, Stephanie Jimenez and University undertakes and address BBC is the first step to successfully Rionda and Figueiredo also plan the student body about what SGA is The decision to recommend Juan Helena Ramirez for Rep-at-Large those initiatives through active partic- represent the students at BBC. on addressing the rising cost of higher LOWER DIVISION in the coming Student Government ipation in student government. education by what really is their only Council elections at the University SENATOR The majority of the candidates also avenue for doing so: student scholar- Park campus. CANDIDATES (4 SEATS) supported having their voting records ships. By establishing an SGA endow- All three candidates support a readily available online. Daniela ment and finding private, outside transparent student government – one Gonzalez agreed with online access donors for programs such as the where the general student population Daniel Ybanez to voting records, saying, “One of the Students for Students scholarship would have access to their student main goals of student government is program, students can finally start Maribel Chaluja leaders’ voting records to ensure their to make the students fully aware of taking action against the seemingly RECOMMENDS POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS AT A GLANCE elected officials are making decisions Daniela Gonzalez happenings within the organization.” endless budget cuts coming from the in their best interests. Such a measure would certainly Florida Legislature. Daniel Gonzalez To coincide with the Student Government University Park BISCAYNE BAY These three candidates are also ensure greater transparency Creating a separate Web site Association elections, The Beacon Recom- aware of students’ more pressing Alex Lastra between student government and its specifically dedicated to campus jobs mends Committee, a group of fi ve editorial Senator-at-Large President concerns – tuition fees and increases, constituents. for students will also help students board members, releases a list of candidate campus safety, student advising, The Beacon recommends Daniel The Beacon is confident that Daniel quickly find jobs on or around recommendations for the presidential ticket, Nicholas Autiello Kenasha Paul parking and traffic, and environmental Ybanez, Maribel Chaluja, Daniela Ybanez, Maribel Chaluja, Daniel campus; a step up from the current seantor-at-large and lower division senator initiatives – which demonstrates their Gonzalez and Daniel Gonzalez for the Gonzalez and Daniela Gonzalez will Helena Ramirez FIUJobLink system, which is ineffi- at University Park and president and vice familiarity with their constituents open Lower Division Representative address the University’s concerns Vice President cient for students at best. president at Biscayne Bay Campus. needs and wants. seats. in an enthusiastic yet professional Stephanie Jimenez Rionda’s plan for addressing These recommendations are based on Juan Carlos Remedios The Beacon believes Autiello’s Although the above candidates manner . students’ concerns about the parking an in-depth interview or, as in the case of direct approach to the tuition and fee have young political careers, their situation at the University is also the UP candidates, a debate accompanied Lower Division Senator increases would help FIU students see platforms and personal statements practical. Most candidates blindly with questionnaires the committee provided their money is responsibly spent. indicate a needed willingness to refer to this as a something they hope each of the eligible candidates running for Daniel Ybanez “I am going to demand account- perform and serve in the Universi- to improve, yet have no real plan to offi ce. SGA electons wll be held on April 1 and Maribel Chaluja 2, The Beacon encourages anyone eligible to vote to please do so through their Panther- Daniel “Danny” Gonzalez SGA 2009 soft account at my.fi u.edu. Daniela Gonzalez Contact Us Iris Febres Opinion Editor iris.febres@fi usm.com OPINION The Beacon – 8 www.fi usm.com Monday, March 30, 2009 FIU out of bounds in banning P2P

MATTHEW RUCKMAN The RIAA is the trade group America still holds Christian values Staff Writer that is responsible for most lawsuits concerning the illegal ANDREW ZAMORA If they really want to get themselves out they can, just downloading of music. On March 21, the Univer- Contributing Writer as I did.” sity announced that all peer-to- The ban seems a bit absurd by Yet we expect others to help us because it is the “right peer fi le sharing would cease on itself, it ignores the murkiness of When the Puritans fi rst landed in Massachusetts they thing to do.” Americans still love to talk about the Amer- campus, including all wireless and the legality of downloading. brought with them a powerful sense of faith, work ethic ican Dream, an idea based on Puritan work ethic. The housing networks. Just because theft occurs does and morality. idea that you reap what you sow is a metaphor found in The University’s intent is not mean the University should More than 200 years later, America has grown to be the Bible itself. Galatians 6:7 states, “Do not be deceived: obvious: to deter illegal down- deny an important avenue to the one of the most prosperous and industrialized nations in God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” loading by restricting students’ Internet. the world. However, has this success come at the price of So perhaps we are superfi cially moving toward secu- access to the Internet. Cars are stolen on campus all our old Christian values and faith? Has America become larity. However, America still has its Christian roots The notifi cation e-mail stated, the time after all – this doesn’t less Christian? buried in its subconscious. I was raised a Roman Cath- “There has been a dramatic mean you ban motor-vehicles According to the American Religious Identifi ca- olic and was baptized, had my fi rst Communion and was increase in the amount of copy- within its boundaries. tion Survey conducted by Trinity College, 75 percent of confi rmed. However, I realized that there were certain right violation activities performed What is also worrisome is Americans call themselves Christian – a sharp decrease facets of the Christian faith with which I did not agree on campus within recent months. how FIU is taking on the role of from the 86 percent reported 20 years earlier. William and I stopped practicing. Yet even to this day I still catch enforcer, a role I never expected of Donohue, president of the Catholic League, believes that myself thinking in the way I was raised to think and a public education institution. this is due to a “shift toward individualism over the past believe. It’s not a It’s not a university’s place to quarter-century.” These teachings, since they are impressed on us at an prosecute or preempt a gray area university’s place People are not calling themselves Christian as much early age and through the actions of the people around of the law, it’s the justice system’s today as they did before and church attendance is us, are very diffi cult to remove from thought. On top to prosecute or responsibility. declining, especially in the 21-45 age group (down to of that, we live in a society that inadvertently rewards preempt a gray area Many schools in fact do the 25 percent from 33 percent in the 1970s, according to W. behaviors associated with these ingrained beliefs and opposite of what FIU is doing and of the law. Bradford Wilcox of the University of Virginia). I believe modes of thought. try to protect their students, as that superfi cially our country may not be fl ying the same So yes, superfi cially science and technology have would seem fi tting. colors, but Christian ideals and views are still very prom- continued their growth, and our great country moves Purdue University, for example, inent within our society. closer to the science fi ction future of our dreams. But “These violations involve ille- has its own P2P server that shields Our society thrives on a strong moral code. We the Christian heart of America still beats strong, only gally downloading music, movies its student’s identities from the believe in a sense of justice and retri- bution, and it has shifted its location from America’s chest to its and other copyrighted material litigious RIAA. Purdue merely we expect wrongs to be punished. subconscious. through the FIU network. In an imposes a cap on downloads in Good and evil are still large facets effort to curb these illegal activ- order to curb bandwidth costs. of our lives. Our enemies, such ities at the University, FIU will This solution would seem pref- as the radical Muslims we face no longer allow peer-to-peer fi le erable to the outright banning of a today in the War on Terror, are sharing.” very important and effi cient means portrayed not only as enemies To many this will come as a of communication. It makes one of the United States but as shock. wonder why this particular route enemies of God, children are The restricting of access to was taken given the alternatives. still taught the 10 command- content and information was prob- The only reason I can think of ments and millions of Ameri- ably never one of the Universi- is the very blatant act of bowing cans go to work every morning ty’s aims, yet this is what they are down to the RIAA. guided by a strong work ethic. doing. In the future I would hope There are still some, espe- What this action shows is who the University defers to students’ cially those better off, that hold the University will side with when interest. fast to Calvinistic ideals. These money is involved. The restricting of our access to individuals see those with more mate- Not the obvious choice – the Internet should never be scope rial wealth as being better than others the students – but instead the of education. and see the poor, the homeless and the sick as Recording Industry Association of Teaching is about the libera- deserving the position they are in. America in policing our personal tion, not confi nement, of informa- They say to themselves, “I worked hard to get to lives. tion and content. where I am today, why should I help them? They’re there for a reason, most likely because they want to be. Study shows U.S. becoming less of a Christian nation

MOHAMED ABDIHAKIM less Christian. unorthodox Christians, to Muslims, Buddhists Contributing Writer My answer? A resounding yes. and Jews (with many dissociating themselves Science cannot be the In the Bush administration, several sensi- with religion altogether). There’s a common misconception when enemy of Christianity. tive issues (more notably that of abortion) have Science is what many Christians consider it comes to the founding of our country, the been handled with Christ-embezzled safety the lone titan rival of the religion. United States. The mistake, the “myth,” is that In fact, Christianity gloves. Many issues were brought almost “Science cannot be the enemy of Chris- this country was founded as a Christian one. needs to work together immediately to a religious focus, often times tianity. In fact, Christianity needs to work This is simply false and can be supported as deluding both sides of the argument. together with the sciences to make sure we such by one of the most infl uential and crucial with the sciences to Even in the fi rst 60 days of our 44th pres- advance as a people,” said Annieka Dennis, a documents in world history, the Declaration ident’s fi rst term, there are small signs of a freshman majoring in psychology. of Independence. In this document, there is a make sure we advance solid separation between church and state. A History teacher Andre Olson at Nur- clear point stressed toward the side of religious as a people. few weeks ago, President Obama announced Ul-Islam Academy added, “Popular belief ambiguity. his support for the advancement of stem cell supports the struggle between faith and fact. At the time, the Christian establishment Annieka Dennis, freshman research and ended tight federal restrictions on This just will not work. The problem is that the was heavily criticized even by some of the psychology major the matter. This is just a single example of how two affect each other greatly.” more well-known signers of the declaration. our country is diverting itself from its supposed Indeed, America has been undergoing a Both Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin Christian roots. shift away from the Christian values it was were good examples, going as far as citing the such religious ambiguity, the United States still Catholics remain the largest religious group thought to have been found under. As the church as the “lowest grade of ignorance of seems to be seen as a Christian country. in this country, gaining 11 million followers trends in government and the overall attitude which their civil as well as religious leaders There is not much fault in this assump- since 1990. Even at such a rate of growth, the of American society toward organized religion will always avail themselves for their own tion, as more than 75 percent of Americans Catholic share of the U.S. population falls just shift in an opposing direction, the United States purposes.” claim to be Christians, according to a recent short of 25 percent. The rest fall all along the is probably going to keep facing the dawning Despite our country being founded under survey. The question now dawning upon many religious spectrum, claiming anywhere from aspect of a much “less Christian” country. is whether the United States has in fact become Contact Us Susana Rodriguez Life! Editor susana.rodriguez@fi usm.com LIFE! The Beacon – 9 www.fi usm.com Monday, March 30, 2009

French Club off ers international taste to students

MONICA PUERTO France in Miami,” said Barbara Telleria, The event included discussions on happen, the club raises funds by having Staff Writer secretary of the Le Cercle Francais. French literature, movies and culture. a CrêpeMaker event, where they make Le Cercle Francais, FIU’s French The club has already held two fi lm and sell crêpes. If a businessman or student from Club, was started approximately 15 years festivals this semester: French Clas- Club members are not required to Miami is abroad in France, he will ago by the club’s advisor, Maria Garcia, sics, with six modern fi lms and Cinéma speak the language or to be enrolled in certainly need to know the daily routine and a few members that shared a passion Franco-Libanais, which showed four any French courses. There are also no and social customs of the French and be for French culture and language. contemporary French/Arabic fi lms. club fees. able to think on their terms rather than When asked to be the club advisor, The club has also had a guided tour “Being an integral part of a university his own. French instructor Garcia said, “I in French of the Lowe Art Museum at that has the word “international” in its “A key advantage of speaking French accepted to do this job everyday of the the University of Miami and is looking title, Le Cercle Francais takes the initia- is that I can travel to various countries in year with all my heart.” forward to their next tour on April 11, tive to demonstrate to the FIU commu- the world – African countries, Canada, Even though meetings are once a which will consist of brunch and a nity not only the culture of France but etc – and be able to communicate with month, Le Cercle Francais does not stop visit to an art exhibit in the Alliance also how expansive the French language them,” said Adrian Douzmanian, a expanding its knowledge and feeding its Francaise. is throughout the world,” Telleria said. freshman and native Frenchman. love for French culture. Leur passion does not end there. The club meetings are generally But for those who were neither Last week, the club and Pi Delta Phi, The club also conducts reading located in the Graham Center and times raised in France nor speak the language, the French Honor Society, conducted a groups. So far, they’ve had six meetings vary each month. The next meeting is gaining that knowledge does not require French awareness day, where brie and this semester: three for begin- scheduled for April 2 in GC 241 at 3:30 a trip overseas. madeline cookies were served. ners/intermediate and three p.m. For more information on upcoming “Our club offers the chance for advanced. In order for events, write to fi [email protected]. to experience these events to a bit of

PhD: Piled higher and deeper diversions Pop & Circumstance Th e Decemberists dish out fi rst ‘concept album’

Well, Colin Meloy fi nally did mood and atmosphere. what he’s been threatening to do for While The Crane Wife seemed four albums. to, at times, reach for some of the On their latest album, The Hazards thematic elements that Hazards has, of Love, The Decemberists no more than a handful of COLUMN have put it all together musi- the songs were really related cally and thematically for to each other. their fi rst true “concept Hazards of Love, on the album.” other hand is an exquisitely Through The Decem- crafted suite that connects berists’ fi rst four albums, musically from beginning to Meloy’s overly verbose and end, with thematic elements prog-inspired folk songs CHRIS TOWERS cropping up throughout the conjured images of Jethro Tull and length of the album. Tommy, especially on 2006’s The I’ve been told there is even some Crane Wife’s two epic song suites. sort of a story about ghost children Meloy has always had a knack for and a shape-shifting forest dweller telling stories, and the band behind who impregnates a princess, or some- him has really turned into an impres- thing along those lines, but in all sive rock outfi t that knows how to follow these stories and change their DECEMBERISTS, page 10 www.fi usm.com LIFE! The Beacon – Monday, March 30, 2009 10

MOMENT OF CLARITY Album quality, talent defi nes MONDAY • TUEDAY • success in hyped hip-hop world MARCH 30 APRIL 1 WHAT: Hands on Haitian WHAT: National Organization – trying to formulate a group for Women Presents: Take Back I get into arguments with people albums. Mix tapes can get you albums were not on Lupe’s level. WHEN: 4:30 p.m. the Night all the time about music, and while some credit, but an album is the Their support was just based WHERE: GC 340 WHEN: 11 a.m. at times it can be interesting, some- body of work that determines your on songs here and there . Jadakiss CONTACT: 305-348-1069 WHERE: GC Pit times it can be perturbing. consistency to make good is very good, OK, but in basketball COLUMN Hip-hop is so subjective albums. Give me a good terms, he doesn’t have the rings. CONTACT: 305-348-1069 that even the most farcical album, not four hot songs Jadakiss may be Vince Carter, but WHAT: Philosophy Club Meet- statement is made regu- and trash. When you talk Lupe is Dwyane Wade. ing WHAT: Students for a Free larly. I have heard dudes about pure talent, some- The talent is very close, but WHEN: 3:30 p.m. Tibet recently say things like, body will give you a more substance has been produced WHERE: GC 314 WHEN: 3:30 p.m. “Big L is not that good,” chance and some beats to by the winner. Wade has a ring. CONTACT: 305-348-1069 WHERE: GC 314 or “Jay-Z is overrated.” make a good album. Lupe has a classic album, almost JONATHAN CONTACT: 305-348-1069 And the list goes on, Freestyles on YouTube inarguably (See Food & Liquor). WHAT: International Students because it is inevitable that RAMOS are a demonstration of raw Jadakiss has a couple dozen hot people make the most ridiculous talent, but that doesn’t put them tracks, but what are his albums Club – Cultural Dinner/Meet- WHAT: Miami Dade County opinions and stick by them. among the best. It puts them among worth? ing Fair and Expo All of those statements are toler- the best at freestyling in public, but This is not meant to be a shot WHEN: 7 p.m. WHEN: 3 p.m. able to an extent, because at some not among the best hip-hop artists at Jada, because I do respect his WHERE: GC Panther Suite WHERE: Coral Way and 112th point you just don’t argue with in the world. skills. But mixtapes are the scrim- CONTACT: 305-348-1069 Ave people when they won’t listen. The one topic I discussed with mage. Albums are the season, and CONTACT: 305-223-7060 People have favorite rappers and a few people was the random awards are the rings. If your album WHAT: Haitian Students Orga- opinions that I accept and cannot comparison of Lupe Fiasco and is good, you’re a playoff team, but nization Meeting WHAT: Florida Grand Opera change, but there is something to Jadakiss. It came up when I was if it is the best album, it’s a ring, or be said about what the most effi - playing basketball (where a lot of a championship. And I don’t mean WHEN: 6:30 p.m. – The Marriage of Figaro cient way to rate these artists is. great dialogue happens about rap). the Grammys, I mean the consensus WHERE: GC 150 WHEN: 8 p.m. The most popular discussion Jada and Lupe are different, but it by hip-hop’s most knowledgeable CONTACT: 305-348-1069 WHERE: Adrienne Arsht Center that comes up though, are the just came up when I was talking people on a classic album. CONTACT: 305-949-6722 comparisons between rappers. You about how transcendent Lupe is. When you’re speaking of who WHAT: FIU Yoga - Meeting cannot escape it, but at least it can You know what side I was on, the best is at something, you have WHEN: 7:45 p.m. WHAT: West Side Story be agreed what guidelines should and although I had some support, I to weigh their accomplishments on WHERE: GC 241 WHEN: 8 p.m. be considered when determining was getting pummeled by Jadakiss the biggest platform. CONTACT: 305-348-1069 WHERE: Roxy Theatre who is “better.” fans who thought it wasn’t close. First of all, the artists’ body But all their support was about Moment of Clarity examines CONTACT: 305-226-0030 of work has to be looked at, and how good Jadakiss is, but even the state of hip-hop every other Compiled by Mariana Ochoa by that I mean the quality of their they admitted that the caliber of his Monday. Meloy colors ‘Hazards of Love’ with steel guitars, mandolins

DECEMBERISTS, page 9 well for what it is, with numerous heaviest songs The Decemberists elements earlier introduced. Patience is rewarded, because after discernible characters and guest have ever done, with a big low end, Still, songs like the sprawling epic a few listens and the overwhelming honesty, I don’t hear the details. vocalists (My Morning Jacket’s Jim distorted guitars and loud plodding centerpiece “The Wanting Comes in feeling of trying to take it all in at The album format by design James is listed in the credits, but I drums. Waves/Repaid” which features strong once is gone, you really start to appre- has to limit storytelling, as even the cannot for the life of me pinpoint him Elsewhere, the more folky sound vocals from Lavender Diamond’s ciate the intricacies of the melodies most well crafted of musical theater in the album). of their earlier albums is built upon Becky Stark, manage to stand alone and the wit in the lyrics. requires some amount of dialogue to Musically, the album expands with new instruments to their canon, while still working within the context Though, as always with a Decem- move the story along. on the prog infl uence that really from pedal steel guitar to mandolin, of the suite. berists album, you may want to have Much like The Who’s Tommy , it’s came to the forefront on The Crane and on “Isn’t It a Lovely Night,” an This is a strong album overall, a lyric sheet and thesaurus handy just obvious even on fi rst listen that there Wife, featuring a number of layers to accordion. The strength of the album though the nature of it takes a few in case you get a word like “roust- is some sort of story here, even if it the instruments and various tempo as a song suite serves somewhat to listens for the individual songs and about” thrown at you. is so obtuse that it requires weeks of changes throughout individual songs. hamper the individual strength of melodies, which can match up to listening to really derive. “A Bower Scene” and “Won’t the songs, as often the songs veer off some of the best in The Decemberists Pop & Circumstance examines all Still, the album works extremely Want for Love” are among the course in order to bring back thematic catalog, to really sink in. things pop music every week.

DRAWING IN NATURE Car Wash and Detailing

service will be available in the Gold Garage Beginning Monday - Friday March 30 7pm to 6pm http://parking.fi u.edu

VICTORIA LYNCH/THE BEACON JOIN OUR STAFF! IN PLEIN AIR: Veronica Carrasco, a nursing major, works on a landscaping assign- Stop by one of our offi ces located in GC 210 and ment for Painting I. WUC 124. www.fi usm.com SPORTS The Beacon – Monday, March 30, 2009 11 Bullpen bounces back, off ense comes alive late BASEBALL, page 12 the series, but head coach earned runs in 5 2/3 innings. Turtle Thomas was pleased He gave up runs early and took over in the top of his team was able to fi ght often; he never dominated the ninth, but imploded back. the Ragin’ Cajuns’ like quickly. “No matter how we play, he had his previous four Relievers Aaron we’ll always take a confer- opponents. Arboleya and Jorge Marban ence win no matter which Yet, the Golden Panthers, both gave up six walks and way you slice it or dice it,” fueled by a six-run fi fth six runs to Scott Rembisz Thomas said. “They made inning, rallied back from in his fi fth victory of the a good comeback and we a 4-0 defi cit to defeat the season. made a good comeback of Ragin’ Cajuns 11-7 on Junior Arrojo led off the our own.” March 28 at University Park bottom of the ninth with a Stadium. FIU 11, UL 7 single. Pablo Bermudez Whereas the bullpen last bunted him over to second One day removed from night pitched one inning base. his worst performance of and gave up six runs, R.J. Ryan Mollica, who hit the season, Jorge Marban Fondon and Jorge Marban two home runs in the game, was sent out in the eighth combined to pitch 3 1/3 was intentionally walked to inning to close out the next innings and did not allow a face Tyler Townsend. game. run. He hit a pitch back to This time, Marban The win gives the Golden VICTPRIA LYNCH/THE BEACON the pitcher for the second delivered. Panthers another series win out of the inning, but his “I just came in with a and a 6-2 record against Sun REACHING BASE: Steven Stropp gets on base against the University of Louisiana Ragin’ groundout advanced the fresh start,” Marban said. Belt Conference teams. Cajuns. The Golden Panthers scored 11 runs in each game. runners to second and third. He mentioned head That record places the Steven Stropp could not coach Turtle Thomas’ talk Golden Panthers third in the The two through six hitters “You know what he tile abilities. avoid a fastball that hit him after the previous game conference behind Middle all had at least two hits has,” Jobe said. “You know “You try to recruit a team to load the bases. It was helped him this outing. Tennessee and Western against the Ragin’ Cajuns. how he’s going to come at that you got a few guys that up to Tim Jobe to win the “I wouldn’t be able to tell Kentucky who both have 8- The Golden Panthers you. Talking with the guys hit some home runs, a few game. you word by word. It really 1 records. began to get the offense in here, you know what he’s guys that could steal some But Justin Robichaux helped me out because it Marban got his fourth going in the fi fth inning. going to throw. Certainly, bases, some guys that hit did not let Jobe win with a knocked some sense into save of the season and threw Tim Jobe extended his seeing him twice helps a for high batting average,” game-winning grand slam. me because I really wasn’t effective off-speed pitches hitting streak to 16 games, lot.” he said. “If you’re lucky His inaccuracy led him to focused last night,” he said. rather than just fastballs. and he said seeing the pitcher Coach Thomas said the enough to have that type of walk Jobe to end the seesaw Starting pitcher Tom For the second consec- a second time through the offense manages to score team, you have a chance to battle. Ebert, who came into the utive game, the Golden lineup was benefi cial for the runs in a variety of ways keep some offensive pres- The bullpen nearly cost game with a 0.61 earned Panthers’ offense scored 11 offense. because of the hitters’ versa- sure on the other team.” the team the fi rst game of run average, gave up seven runs and obtained 16 hits. SUN BELT BASEBALL STANDING Pitching supported by potent off ense TEAM OVERALL CONF PCT TOWERS, page 12 five strikeouts, to raise his Middle Tennessee 18-4 9-1 .818 season ERA all the way to Western Kentucky 17-7 8-1 .708 devastating to opposing As good as Mollica has been 1.80. Friday’s biggest FIU 17-5 6-3 .773 pitchers. over the last two and a half ULM 14-11 5-6 .560 The Golden Panthers problem was the bullpen, Arkansas State 10-13 5-6 .435 rank third in the conference which allowed six runs in in runs, on base percentage weeks, Tyler Townsend has been the top of the ninth to erase Florida Atlantic 15-8 4-6 .652 and slugging percentage, a workhorse performance Louisiana-Lafayette 10-12 4-6 .457 that good and better ... and have been especially from Scott Rembisz, who Troy 14-10 3-5 .583 dangerous from the two-six was effective without his New Orleans 9-15 4-7 .375 spots in the lineup. batting average and on base innings and timely hitting, best stuff. UALR 7-16 3-7 .304 Since starting 3-for- percentage, and coming in and in Jobe’s case, a timely However, on Saturday, South Alabam 11-14 2-6 .440 26 on the season, second second in slugging. bases loaded walk in the freshman R.J. Fondon baseman Ryan Mollica has Townsend’s steady bottom of the ninth to walk and closer Jorge Marban *All records up to date as of Mar. 29 gone 29-for-62, with six presence has allowed the off with a win on Friday’s held the Cajuns’ score- Golden Panthers to slot in game. SUN BELT LEADERS home runs, and has gener- less through the final 3 1/3 ally returned to being the a couple of newcomers into For Saturday, the middle innings to close the game the lineup. of the Golden Panthers’ BATTING player that hit more than out and pick up the win. .400 last season. Tim Jobe and Mike lineup hit five doubles in This is a team that is Min 2.5 AB G Avg AB R H RBI 2B 3B HR BB As he has heated up, so Martinez, who switch off the innings to spark a six- much improved from last Townsend, FIU 20 .486 74 22 36 26 9 1 5 12 has the offense. between first and desig- run fifth inning to bail out year, and should be able to Robertson, MT 20 .462 78 23 36 13 12 0 1 9 As good as Mollica nated hitter, have both Tom Ebert, who finally at least be competitive with Brentz, MT 20 .427 75 25 32 23 2 2 9 8 has been over the last two been able to step right in had a bad outing after the best of the Sun Belt. PITCHING and a half weeks, Tyler and produce at high levels, dominating with a .61 And if the pitching giving FIU a handful of ERA through his first four continues to lead the confer- Min 1.0 IP/Team Gm ERA W-L Sv IP H R ER BB SO Townsend has been that good and better for the dangerous hitters. starts. ence in earned run average, Ebert, FIU 6 0.61 3-1 0 35 22 12 7 5 41 entire length of the season, Against the Ragin’ Ebert allowed seven the bats will hit enough to Rembisz, FIU 6 1.54 4-0 0 43 35 11 10 4 37 Cajuns, the bats were runs, five earned, to plate Polizzano, FIU 4 2.61 2-1 0 24 21 11 7 5 23 leading the conference in keep them near the top. able to string together big through 5 1/3 innings, with

CLASSIFIEDS

JOBS JOIN OUR STAFF!

DENTAL SERVICE MANAGER: Conduct & adm. Fiscal open; Direct, & eval. Activities of staff: Analyze facility activities & data to aid planning: Adm Dental Stop by one of our offi ces Program & Dental facility: Direct recruitment & training; Extabl. Work schedules. Maintain awareness of computerized diagnostics & treatment equip. data processing located in GC 210 and tech. gov. reg. health Ins. Changes & fi n options. Purchase new dental equip. D.D.S. and 1 yr of exp. Exp. In job offered. 40 hrs/wk M-F 9-5 p.m. Send resume to: 1dentalof- WUC 124. [email protected] Contact Us Andrew Julian Sports Director andrew.julian@fi usm.com SPORTS The Beacon – 12 www.fi usm.com Monday, March 30, 2009 BASEBALL SERIES: FIU 2, UL 0 ‘We have to be creative and work harder’

ATHLETICS, page 1

athletic departments across the nation. “Every school that receives any amount of state or public funding is going through something similar. Every school is being faced with issues and that’s just not in our league but every league in the country,” said Sun Belt Conference Assistant Commissioner for Communication John McElwain. Although some resources will get cut, Garcia said the competitiveness of each team will not be sacrificed. “We are not going to use this as an excuse for fielding teams that are not going to be competitive at the highest VICTORIA LYNCH/THE BEACON level. We have to be creative and work RESURGENCE: Ryan Mollica hits against the Ragin’ Cajuns. Mollica is one of the hottest batters on the team. He hit two home runs harder,” Garcia said. against the Cajuns. Part of the creativity Garcia spoke about was creating new streams of revenue for the department through external uses of its facilities. So far, Athletics has been able to secure a partnership to host first-round COMEBACK KIDS games of the Gold Cup at FIU Football Stadium and formed a partnership with Through the fi rst three innings, starting improved the Golden Panthers’ Sun Belt the Miami Diamantes, a Florida Winter Golden Panthers pitcher Scott Rembisz and the Golden Conference record to 5-2, good for third in Baseball League. Panthers had the game on cruise control. the conference. The Diamantes will play all their Then in the fourth inning, they hit a Rembisz retired the fi rst nine batters he home games at University Park Stadium. overcome defi cits bump in the road that came in the form of a faced in order. The Ragin’ Cajuns could not Athletics has also rented the stadium two-run home run by designated hitter Matt fi gure him out. But the second time seeing club at the football stadium for parties to win two games Goulas. him, they began to pile on hits against the and meetings. The rest of the game would be a contest Golden Panthers’ No. 1 starter. Garcia and McElwain said they’ve SERGIO BONILLA with erratic pitching, a late inning meltdown After the two-run homer by Goulas, the never seen anything like this in colle- Asst. Sports Director and a walk-off victory against the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns produced two more runs the giate athletics and it’s one of the first Ragin’ Cajuns on March 27 at University following inning to take a 4-3 lead. times athletic departments may have For the fi rst time this season, starting Park Stadium. The Golden Panthers’ offense did not seen their budgets dip. pitcher Scott Rembisz and Tom Ebert did With the scored tied at 10, Tim Jobe let the Cajuns enjoy their lead for long by “Athletics has continually grown not look like the dominant pitchers they’ve came up to bat with the bases loaded and recapturing the lead with a two-run inning and was an area where more and more been all season. two outs. due to a series of singles capped off by a money was going into,” McElwain The University of Louisiana Ragin’ He jumped out of the way of a pitch that base hit by Mike Martinez. said. Cajuns came into the series with the worst almost hit him. It would’ve ended the game For the Golden Panthers, the offensive “I think we are in a unique situa- team batting average in the conference, but instantly, but Jobe wanted to take matters onslaught continued. They scored three tion, where for the first time, we are managed to tag four runs on Rembisz and into his own hands. runs in the next inning and two in the eighth being asked to take a hard look at our seven runs on Ebert. “I wanted to hit it out,” Jobe said. “I was to extend their lead to 10-4. numbers. That’s not a bad thing because But the Golden Panthers’ offense scored looking for a pitch to drive.” Rembisz shut out the Ragin’ Cajuns for it can lead to better efficiency and opti- 11 runs in both games to defeat the Ragin’ Instead, he saw four straight balls as he the next three innings as well. The bullpen mizing our budget.” Cajuns in the fi rst two games of the series. drew the game-winning walk to give the Golden Panthers the 11-10 victory. The win FIU 11, UL 10 BASEBALL, page 11 Baseball team proves to be a contender Over the last 10 games • The baseball team is 8-2 If you were to judge FIU’s baseball team Tony Robichaux’s Ragin’ Cajuns have COLUMN f you are following a during that stretch. I after their first 20 games, you’d be looking led the Sun Belt Conference in team ERA college baseball team, you at a team that, despite some obvious defi- for four straight seasons, a distinction FIU • The Golden Panthers always want to give them ciencies, was able to dominate opponents currently holds, and are usually among a little time before you outscored their opponents on both sides of the ball. the Sun Belt Conference’s better teams, start judging them. Through 20 games, Turtle Thomas’ garnering a first place vote in the preseason 99-62. More than any other squad, made up largely of new players coaches’ poll. sport, baseball perfor- • Ryan Mollica hit four and some returning contributors, stood at If you were waiting for this series to CHRIS TOWERS mance is prone to fluctu- a sterling 15-5 record, with a couple of late pass judgment on the Golden Panthers, home runs, scored 13 ations from game to game inning losses being the only blemishes. your opinion of them was probably not too and week to week. Baseball, by its very runs and had 19 runs For people following the Golden different than before it. nature, requires a large number of samples Panthers, the beginning in earnest of confer- During the first two games of the three- batted in (RBI). He has a to get rid of some of the “noise” that comes ence play, a three-game home set against game set, the Golden Panthers scored 11 in with these fluctuations. .465 batting average. the University of Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns both games, with a lineup that is absolutely Is 20 games long enough to judge a was the series to reserve judgment. team? TOWERS, page 11