Florida International University FIU Digital Commons

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

9-2-2004 The Beacon, September 2, 2004 Florida International University

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

Recommended Citation Florida International University, "The Beacon, September 2, 2004" (2004). The Panther Press (formerly The Beacon). 138. https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/student_newspaper/138

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]. The Student Newspaper of Florida International University THE BEACON Vol. 17, Issue 2 WWW.BEACONNEWSPAPER.COM September 2, 2004 THE BOYS ARE BACK

It is hard to believe that FIU But, the biggest move FIU play or two had gone right. will be no different. They will COMMENTARY is the fastest university to apply is doing is providing a free con- The offense has a talented duo face I-A schools, which are to I-A. Lots of people question cert for fans during the Western of receivers in Harold Leath and no joke. the move by Athletic Director Kentucky game. None other Cory McKinney. The defense has Strock knows wins are what Rick Mello to pursue I-A so than famous rappers Method a linebacker in Antwon Barnes eventually will draw fans to quickly but in the long run, FIU Man and Redman will be the who could be the first Golden the stadium, not bobble heads needed to do this. highlights at the concert. Panther drafted into the NFL. or FIU visors. He knows the With Florida Atlantic Univer- The Golden Panthers will also This is an exciting team with team is no longer young and By HARRY COLEMAN sity moving to I-A this year and play a home game at a bigger players that are hungry for suc- being young is no longer an Sports Editor with the University of venue, the Orange Bowl. The cess. Everyone knows Miami is excuse for losing. in town, FIU had to make this team will face FAMU in the a win driven town and the only FIU will open the season It was just yesterday when move to avoid falling behind. Orange Bowl Classic, which way FIU will attract large crowds today in hopes of drawing fans the Golden Panthers played The biggest question will be should draw over 20,000 fans. will be if the team can start win- and showing the community their first football in front of a whether the team can average FIU has some very talented ning more games. they belong in Division I-A. sold out crowd at “The Cage.” 15,000 fans per game. players and if fans want football The team won four games The players are hungry, the Fast forward three years and The university is making all to stay here they will need to the inaugural season and two giveaways are set to be handed now the team will open its the right moves by giving tons come out to the stands. games the following season, out, and Method Man and third season with games at of giveaways including Don Last year FIU had a losing but this doesn’t mean the team Redman are on their way; higher stakes – Division I-A Strock bobble heads and FIU record but four of the losses regressed. The Panthers faced the question is, will you show football. seat cushions. could have been a victory if a talented teams and this year up? Golden Panthers to make Dolphins their first prey VS

By ANDRES CORDERO mobility and fresh legs. (5-10, 180) and Leighton Henderson (5- game should be their most dominant per- Staff Writer JU features a D-line rotation with as 10, 175) will have to contend with FIU formance of the season. Adam Gorman’s many as 10 players. The linebacker corps, receivers Harold Leath and Cory McKin- 138 yards and Diamos Demerritt’s 121 The Golden Panthers will open the led by senior Tim Hasse, is experienced ney, both of which possess a 5-inch height made up the bulk of the 391 yards FIU football season at FIU Stadium today at but lacks depth. If the offensive line advantage on the JU tandem. ran for against Jacksonville’s horrid run 8 p.m. facing the visiting Dolphins for the can hold, the holes should be there for The primary concern for the FIU defense last year. third time in the school’s three seasons. Rashod Smith, who rushed for a career defense should be to stop the Dolphins FIU also enjoyed success in the air The two previous contests saw the JU best 262 yards and 2 touchdowns against air attack. Jacksonville executes a mul- against the Dolphins. Quarterback Josh Dolphins routed by a combined score of the Dolphins in 2002. tiple “I” formation, but their game plan Padrick, playing for the injured Jamie 94-18. Both games featured the highest The graduation of seniors Charlton relies heavily on the arm of junior Mike Burke, completed 10-of-14 passes for 232 point totals in school history with the Williams and Emile Duvernois leaves a Sturgill. yards and 3 touchdowns. Golden Panthers posting 39 in 2002 and definite lack of experience on the Jack- Last season Sturgill threw for 2,060 This might be a sign that this year’s a school record 55 in 2003. sonville secondary. yards and 20 touchdowns. However, he game might not be much of a contest Jacksonville comes into its seventh The Dolphins will count on Drew managed just one touchdown against either. A good performance here says a season of I-AA football with just 5 return- Stafford (missed last season with knee the Golden Panthers and it was facing lot less about the team than a bad one ing starters on offense, 5 on defense and a injury) and Mathew Kampfe (converted back-ups, in the final minutes, while on would. lot of question marks. The team is noto- QB) starting at free and strong safety the short end of a blowout. Perhaps the biggest question concern- riously undersized on the defensive line respectively. Given that this year’s schedule is the ing the game is: Will more than 3,512 and tries to compensate with quickness, Returning cornerbacks Bryan Flowers toughest for FIU thus far, the opening people show up for this one?

9/2/04 1 9/1/04 12:46:24 PM 2 The Beacon – September 2, 2004 SPORTS www.beaconnewspaper.com Smith returns strong from tendon injury

By NATALIE SABIA throughout the season, Smith During his freshman year at Despite a frustrating season, Dean’s List, came to FIU as s Staff Writer continued to get healthy in Bryant College in Rhode Island, Smith headed home to Miami sophomore and was non-other hopes for another try. Smith was already a talented for a fresh start. than team MVP after leading the He rushes down the field “I tried to get back and play, player, who rapidly became a “I wanted to get back home Golden Panthers with 784 yards protecting the football that he but I couldn’t run,” said Smith glimpse in people’s eyes. to keep playing, especially for a over nine games and averaging 6 holds tightly to his body while who had gained over 1,000 He averaged more than 60 new program like FIU had to yards per carry. passing defenders as they latch yards on 194 carries, before his yards in his first two games of offer,” said Smith. As FIU’s leading scorer in out towards him. He looks up injury while averaging 5.5 yards the year, but after breaking a The Sports Management 2002, with nine touchdowns, ahead in hopes to see the end- per run. toe he was unable to return. major, who is no stranger to the sitting out in 2003 was a major zone near; this year, look for upset for Smith. him to be there, look out for “I had to learn how to running back Rashod Smith. walk again, but I’m ready to This season, it will be his get back into the swing of number four jersey sprinting things,” said Smith. down the field, celebrating As far as Smith is con- his rushing yards, along with cerned, the Golden Panthers touchdowns. Standing at are ready for action. Their 5- feet-8-inches and carrying days have been consumed by 188 pounds of muscle, Smith daily practices on the field, is ready for his comeback; the while getting focused for the question is, are opponents season. ready for him? “Right now were taking Recovering from an injury one step at a time and one play last year, after slicing a tendon at a time,” said Smith. “Were in his foot from a run in with a getting ready for Thursday piece of glass, the senior run- [season opener].” ning back is anxiously awaiting Despite Smith’s nag- his return to the field after an ging injuries he has endured injury was more serious than and the fact that he hasn’t initially thought. played a full season in a while, “I stepped on glass in the he is prepared to get back on cafeteria, but I didn’t know it the field and do what he is was that serious,” said Smith. great at. Smith was limited to only “I’m good now,” said six games last season and Smith, “I’m excited to get finished with 278 rushing back with my team. I just want yards, third best on the team. FIRST DOWN: Rashod Smith rushes two defenders during a controlled scrimmage at The Cage. Smith is return- to help my team through the While his teammates played ing from a tendon injury he suffered last season. GEOFF ANDERSON/SPECIAL TO THE BEACON whole season.” Student radio broadcasts football CLASSIFIED because it’s the sport FIU they all go through a lot By NATALIE SABIA is trying to push the most,” of preparation before Staff Writer said Cordero. Along with announcing a game. the twelve football games “I t ’ s n o t a n e a s y Help Wanted Tucked away in FIU’s coming up this fall, WRGP thing to just become an press box during the Radio is also involved with announcer,” said Ben- Immediate openings SERVER/SERVER Golden Panther Football basketball, soccer, baseball dayan. and volleyball games. “It is a tremendous help for Tutors. All subjects THE PERFECT ASSISTANT games are not only the Broadcasting on 88.1 to alternate games,” said and grade levels. BUSINESS The Melting Pot voices who shout out every FM, the WRGP, which Bendayan. Competitive Rates. Part-time hours/Full- 11520 Sunset Drive detail that fans are already is Radio Golden Panther, C o n s i d e r i n g t h a t Flexible schedules. Fax time income Apply in person from saying in their heads, but the sports staff is already WRGP is strictly a “volun- resumes www.ceofromhome. 12 noon. they are also the voices that getting set in gear for an teer” radio station, secur- 305-266-3402 com Ring bell. Evenings blissfully bring us up to or e-mail only. Will train. speed of the most crucial exciting upcoming foot- ing employees who will info@academictutorial. Great opportunity for things that are happening ball season. commit, while developing com students! down on the field. On top of their game an on-air chemistry with Among the announc- list especially this year the staff is the station’s ers and analysts whom we are the games that will main focus. For Rent listen to are Sports Director be played in the Orange F o r m o s t o f t h e Andres Cordero, Messod Bowel, against FAMU, announcer’s, including OFF-CAMPUS ROOM FOR RENT Bendayan, Will Schanez and in Pro Player Stadium, senior journalism major DORM $350 mo. Utilities and Harr y Coleman. verses FAU. Messod, it is really the For 3. $335. Pays all. included. Female only These men are the faces “I am looking forward experience that plays into Miami Beach, near ocean, non-smoking. Close to behind the microphones to those games because we hand. restaurant, bus lines. FIU and International during the most thrilling will be in a real press box,” “At the end, it is all Private entrance, central Mall. Call Quica 305- sports events at FIU, who said Cordero. worth it,” said Bendayan. A/C, heat, cable TV. Call 220-1782 no later than bring their fans the most Securing a storyline Along with the other Clyde 305-446-7037. 8 pm. desired sports information that will go along with broadcast majors, also for by the second. each game is their most senior Andres, announcing For Sale Services “I really enjoy calling difficult job. games is an opportunity of the games,” said Ben- Whether it may be a a lifetime. “I have been a dayan, “I am a huge sports particular threat that the sports fan my whole life Toshiba Retired profes- El corte Ingles, nut.” opposing team will pose or and I wanted to get some laptop computer sor will edit your beauty salon and spa Despite the small space maybe an interesting story broadcasting under my PII366MHZ/128 MB papers, theses, offers quality service and they have to work with that involves a player, both belt,” said Cordero. RAM/10GB HDD/ and dissertations. great prices. in the press box, both the announcer and analyst Despite which crew 24XCD ROM Very reasonable. 10% off to FIU stu- the play-by-play announc- must create their storytell- announces the games, you (optional DVD) 561-302-9416, dents. On Bird Road ers and game analysts sit ing voices fast enough so can be sure that the people 56K modem [email protected] and 152 ave. Please anxiously in their seats to they don’t get behind the behind it all work through internet ready- call 305-229-7379. broadcast games. action, but yet still enter- long hours of dedication $385.00 By dividing the staff in tain their crowd. to keep the sports spirit two different crews, they “Trying to work in a alive in each of their listen- are able to broadcast each story is the most difficult,” ing fans. football game, including said Bendayan. Look for the very first If you are interested in placing a classified ad in The Beacon, contact our those games away. Among the spor ts FIU broadcast on Septem- advertising manager at 305-348-6994 for rates and more information. “Football is the only announcers, who are all ber 2, for volleyball’s home sport that we travel for, very much sports crazies, opener against Miami.

9/2/04 3 9/1/04 12:55:19 PM The Student Newspaper Check out the of Florida International special pullout University football preview THE BEACON Vol. 17, Issue 2 WWW.BEACONNEWSPAPER.COM September 2, 2004 Bush rallies crowds in Miami Arena

GRAND OLD PARTY: President George W. Bush (middle) and First Lady Laura Bush (right) address a jubilant, mostly Hispanic crowd at a Miami rally. RODOLFO ROMAN/THE BEACON

By RODOLFO R. ROMAN obstacles…because we’ve Hussein–still declared voted no,” he said in Span- atendees in Spanish, the who attended the rally Contributing Writer got the best workers in the by Bush to be a sworn ish. The comment was pro-Bush party calling sat on the left side of the world.” enemy of the American meant to be a jab at Ker- Kerry a communist and arena, where spectators Reciting a speech deliv- The massive crowd people–was the first step ry’s vote to lift the Cuban the pro-Kerry protestors wearing colored t-shirts ered in a mix of English cheered and chanted in fighting international tourism travel ban. denouncing Bush as an created the shape of an and Spanish, President “USA” after most of the terrorism. “If you honored me, I arrogant liar. American flag. George W. Bush spoke president’s quotes. Bush then addressed the would uphold the honor The protest did not pre- Marianne Valdorado, before a crowd of 8,000 During the event, Bush mostly Hispanic populace and dignity of the office to vent the large public along senior, is a member of the in the Miami Arena on promised that his adminis- by declaring that a vote for which I had been elected,” with several Republican FIU Republican club who Aug. 27. tration would continue to his ticket would also guar- he said, smiling brightly organizations from attend- decided to volunteer at “We will win in Novem- adhere to an anti-terrorist antee the struggle to free and waving to the mass. ing, including members of the event. ber,” exclaimed the Presi- agenda, fighting terrorism the people of Cuba gov- As the speech was deliv- FIU political groups. “I started to read and dent in Spanish as the and spreading democracy erned by Fidel Castro. ered, a small crowd of “It was a good and found I liked Bush’s policy. crowd chanted ‘Viva Bush’ around the world. “We took action to protesters held signs and funny speech,” said Juan That’s why I support him,” and ‘Four more years.’ “There’s more work continue breaking the repeatedly chanted ‘No F. D. Arce, president of she said. In his rally speech, Bush to be done to protect the dictator’s information more Bush’ outside the the FIU Republicans. “But As the November elec- addressed various key issues homeland,” he said. “I blockade,” he said. After Arena. it’s sad that he only spoke tions draw closer, sev- of his administration. just want you to know that the comments, the crowd The protesters, most of about Cuba. He forgot to eral on-campus political “We’ve been through there’s a lot of really good jubilantly applauded. whom declared themselves speak about other coun- groups will hold events a recession; we’ve been people who are working Amid the clamors, Bush to be environmentalists tries such as Columbia and such as public forums and through an attack; we’ve hard and long hours to took some shots at his claiming President Bush Venezula that are currently guest speakers. They advise been through corporate protect you.” Democratic opponent, has placed the Everglades fighting terrorism and FIU students to be on the scandals,” he said. “And He also guaranteed that Sen. John Kerry. at risk, exchanged vulgar poverty.” lookout for flyers promot- yet, we’ve overcome these the elimination of Saddam “He voted yes, and I language with the rally’s Those FIU students ing the events. Payment rush forms massive lines

By C. JOEL MARINO of the building. and LUIS NIN Some students waited for approximately two Staff Writers hours, trying to pay on time as to avoid the $100 late fee. Throughout the day, university They stood in line for hours, bored and silent, employees ran along the line in efforts to keep waiting for nothing else than a five minute stay order and sort problems out. Despite these at the cashier’s window. attempts, though, many of the students found As the supposed deadline for tuition pay- grounds to complain. ments seemed to come to a close on Aug. 25, an “Everyday it gets worse. The system [they estimated 1,000 students and family of students use] sucks,” said Hazel Rivera, a senior. stood in a massive single file at the Primera Casa “They’ve been bouncing me around from office THE LONG WAIT: first floor hallway in University Park, winding Having stood in line for several hours, disgruntled through corridors and, at points, seeping out See LINES, page 2 students and family members finally make their tuition payments at the cashier’s office in University Park. LUIS NIN/THE BEACON INSIDE INDEX On-campus Welcome Voters News 4 construction week should pay Opinion 5 photo spread. receives Life 8 attention. 7 Classifieds 2 6,7 freshmen. 8 Sports 10

09-2-04.indd 1 9/1/04 1:23:40 PM 4 The Beacon – September 2, 2004 NEWS6825_DalaiLamaAd 8/31/04 11:33 AM Page 1 www.beaconnewspaper.com

Long waiting lines debated F LORIDA I NTERNATIONAL U NIVERSITY LINES, from page 1 gested lines somewhere system shift itself. 2 0 0 4 P RESIDENTIAL L ECTURE S ERIES closer to home, blaming “I don’t think it’s an p r e s e n t s to office for three days. themselves and what they either or answer in relation I woke up today at 8:00 call their procrastination. to that,” Jones said. “I a.m. and I’m still here at “I paid two weeks ago; think there are some issues 4:00 p.m. I have finan- the entire building was in terms of the university’s cial aid and can’t pay the empty. If everyone was transition to a new system, difference in my tuition responsible and didn’t as with any new system, online.” wait till the last minute, and not just in relation to Many students attrib- the line wouldn’t be this the payments, but in rela- uted the line to a combina- huge,” said Ron Silvera, tion to registration. There tion of problems within the sophomore, as he waited were many students with new Panthersoft system. in line to make his broth- feelings of discomfort. “The Panthersoft system er’s tuition payment. New students are having is screwy. If FIU sponsors Responding to these less problems.” MS. KERI PICKETT a Visa card why doesn’t outcries, Dean of Under- Jones, who herself the program accept Visa?” graduate Studies Rosa patrolled the lines for three HIS HOLINESS said Marianne Goodwin, Jones believes the problem hours, agrees that not sophomore. to be rooted more in the one single factor could be THE 14TH DALAI LAMA OF TIBET Other students looked perception of the Panther- attributed to the conges- for the cause of the con- soft transition than the tion. COMPASSION “The last day to pay is always very hectic. We’ve THE SOURCE OF HAPPINESS had some other situations. We had a lot of students Wednesday, September 22, 2004 at 10:00am NEWSFLASH that didn’t have the money to pay. The increase in University Park, Golden Panther Arena ON CAMPUS tuition also made it chal- Doors open at 7:30am • Strict security will be enforced, please arrive early Hurricane predicted to take course through lenging for students,” she Florida said. THIS EVENT IS NOT OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC, IT IS ONLY FOR FIU STUDENTS, FACULTY, Due to the large amount STAFF, SELECT ALUMNI ASSOCIATION MEMBERS AND SPECIAL FRIENDS OF THE UNIVERSITY. Hurricane Frances, labeled a category 4 of students still waiting to storm on Sept. 1, is set to make a course through TICKET DISTRIBUTION DATES: make payments by the end Tickets are required for admission and are free of charge • A valid FIU ID is needed to obtain tickets Florida, according to the National Hurricane of the day, the cashier’s Distribution begins Wednesday, September 8 • Last day to obtain tickets is Wednesday, September 15 Center at FIU. and bursar’s offices even- Announced to pass through the Caribbean tually decided to extend TICKET DISTRIBUTION LOCATIONS & HOURS: University Park, Graham Center, Box Office (Next to Gracie’s Grill) 8:30am to 8:00pm islands and the Bahamas by Sept. 3, the center the deadline to Sunday predicts a northwesterly course with possible , Wolfe University Center, Panther Square (please check box office hours) Aug. 29, where students Pines Center Campus (please check box office hours) Florida impact by the Labor Day weekend. could place their transac- These estimates, though, carry a wide margin tions online. FOR DETAILED INFORMATION VISIT: of error. This notwithstanding, www.dalailama.fiu.edu FIU, which acts as the major evacuation the lines continued for the center for residents of Munroe County, will remaining days. SPONSORED BY: be issuing a statement concerning the storm Anita Becker, an FIU FIU Office of the President • FIU Center for the Study of Spirituality • FIU SGA Lectures Committee between Thursday Sept. 2 and Friday Sept. 3. alumna from 1982, cur- Students, faculty, and staff with any questions rently has a daughter regarding the cancellation of classes or evacu- attending the university. ation procedures are urged to contact the FIU Making the line to pay Help Line at (305)348-HELP. her daughter’s fees, Becker found nothing new with MOST NURSES WILL ENTER THE U.S. HEALTHCARE SYSTEM. the accumulated crowds— YOU’RE NOT MOST NURSES. she’s made plenty of those lines before. “I’ve been waiting in EDITORIAL BOARD lines [like these] all my

ALEJANDRA DIAZ EDITOR IN CHIEF life,” she said. “This isn’t

JOHN LOVELL MANAGING EDITOR a problem with the system. It’s just good old fash-

C. JOEL MARINO NEWS EDITOR ioned procrastination.”

JULIA MARCHESE LIFE! EDITOR

ALICIA BUSTAMANTE OPINION EDITOR

HARRY COLEMAN SPORTS EDITOR

NATALIE CHEEVER NEWS PAGE DESIGNER

KIMBERLY HOWARD LIFE! PAGE DESIGNER

JENIFFER GALASSO SPORTS PAGE DESIGNER

LUIS NIN COPY EDITOR/CARTOONIST

JESSICA STELLA ADVERTISING MANAGER The journalist HATZEL VELA BUSINESS MANAGER ALFREDO SOTO ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF STUDENT MEDIA within is calling ROBERT JAROSS DIRECTOR OF STUDENT MEDIA you. Information

The Beacon office is located in the Graham Center, room 210 at the University Park campus. Members of the editorial and production staffs and questions regarding display advertising and billing should Answer by be directed to the Advertising Manager at 305.348.2709. Mailing address: Graham Center, room 210, Miami, FL 33199. Fax number applying at is 305.348.2712. Biscayne Bay Campus is 305.919.4722. Office hours are 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. E-mail: Beacon@fiu. The Beacon. edu. Visit us online at: www.beaconnewspaper.com

PUBLIHING POLICY Most nurses spend their entire careers in the same hospital. In the United States Air Force, it’s unlikely you’ll even spend it in the same state or country. You’ll have the opportunity to practice nursing in as many as 20 different fields The Beacon is Visit GC 210 in a variety of nursing environments. And you’ll feel a greater sense of shared published on Mondays and Thursdays during the Fall and Spring semesters and once a week during Summer B. Advertising inqui- or WUC 124 responsibility when you have the opportunity to actually lead your team. Sound ries for classified, local and national ads may be addressed to our like the kind of career you’d like to have? Then call 1-800-423-USAF. advertising department in our newsroom.One copy per person. for an AIRFORCE.COM • 1-800-423-USAF Additional copies are 25 cents. The Beacon is not responsible for the content of ads. Ad content is the sole responsibility of the application. company or vendor. The Beacon is an editorially independent newspaper partially funded by Student and Services fees that are appropriated by Student Government. The Beacon would like to extend a welcome back to all students and faculty.

09-2-04.indd 2 9/1/04 1:31:33 PM 5 The Beacon – September 2, 2004 www.beaconnewspaper.com OPINION Alejandra Diaz Editor In Chief • John Lovell Managing Editor

WHAT DO YOU THINK? How did you get along with Panther- soft ?

• I love it, the new system is incredibly helpful and I have experienced little or no trouble.

• Although it is convenient and structured nicely, I found it difficult to search for classes. It limits your search options and can be frustrating at times.

• I couldn’t figure out how to do anything at all, I hate this confusing mess of a software and I miss the old system.

• What’s a Panthersoft? Cast your vote at www.beaconnewspaper.com

WINNER & LOSER

WINNER School Spirit: With the addition of a Division I-A LETTERS TO THE EDITOR C football team and a new tradition with the “trail of the torch,” FIU morale is climbing to an all-time high. Voters should rely on lished, the ads will continue. cans enjoy. issues when selecting a What is undefendable is that While elected officials and the LOSER presidential candidate statistically, 75% precent of offi- most wealthy Americans receive the best health care in the world, Presidential Offspring: During Sunday’s MTV Video not war records and ads cal Bush-Cheney ads are attack D Music Awards, both John Kerry and President Bush’s ads on Kerry, while only 25% of Kerry believes that health care Kerry ads are attack ads. This is a right of all Americans and daughters were booed by crowds. While the American To the Editor: Airlines Arena had many animal restrictions for the show, means that we should all take will make that same health care scapegoats were more than welcome. “Why should I vote for these ads with a grain of salt. available to all Americans and John Kerry? I don’t like Bush When researching a candi- would provide a 75% tax credit but I don’t know much about date, analyze their platform, to help small businesses pay for Kerry.” I wish I had a dime what are their positions on the their employees health care. for everytime an FIU student issues? I’ll admit that’s difficult Under his plan, 96% of adults QUOTEABLES asked me that question over to do with the Bush campaign and 99% of children would have the summer. when they have based their health care. “If things go right, I’ll be there about a week, and if things don’t As president of the FIU campaign on attacking Kerry’s Although there are a number go right, I’ll be there about an hour and a half.” College Democrats, I’m proud credentials, likely feeling that of other important issues in – Rodney Dangerfield, comedian, speculating the results of to say that 2 out of every 3 their accomplishments the past this election such as education, his pending heart surgery. who posed this question to me 4 years will not be sufficient for women’s rights, and the envi- walked away from me with a reelection. However, I’d like to ronment, all cannot be covered “We will win in November.” Kerry-Edwards bumper sticker provide you with an outline of here. – President Geoge W. Bush at a Republican rally that took in hand and a promise to vote the Kerry-Edwards platform. I encourage everyone to place at the Miami Arena on Aug 27. for John Kerry on November Statistics show that the top make their vote count, research 2. Now since I can’t personally 1% of Americans receieve over the candidates, listen to the “I know it’s hard to believe, but our parents’ favorite term of talk to every FIU student, I’d $75,000 on Bush’s tax cut, debates and make the choice endearment is actually ‘Bushie.” like to take this opportunity to while the middle 20% receieve that will take America to new – Barbara Bush, President Bush’s daughter, exchanging quips share some thoughts with you just over $1,000. To truly relieve heights in the next 4 years. with sister, Jenna, during an introduction for First Lady Laura about this election, especially all the middle class burden, Kerry For starters, there will be a Bush at the Republican National Convention. you undecideds out there. would repeal tax cuts for those debate watching party in Gra- This election should not earning over $200,000 and cie’s Grill Sept. 30 at 8:30 p.m. “To those critics who are so pessimistic about our economy, I say: be about Bush or Kerry’s war return to a progressive system A great place to begin to de- Don’t be economic girlie men!” record and the negative cam- of taxation. velop or justify your opinions – Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger during the Republican paigning by both parties should Believing that no American on the two candidates. National Convention in response to previous heat received for and needs to stop. These 527 should be discriminated against Best of luck to everyone this joking with Californian Democrats. committes spending hundreds based on their sexual orienta- Fall. of millions of dollars on attack tion, Kerry will support civil “They have been bouncing me around from office to office for ads should cease all their mate- unions of gays to ensure them James Valle, three days.” rial. Unforunately, until new the same domestic partner priv- Senior – Hazel Rivera, senior, referring to the long lines and hassle campaign finance laws are estab- leges that heterosexual Ameri- Political Science/History at the Cashier’s office during Fall registration.

SEND US YOUR LETTERS Letters to the Editor must be dropped off in GC 210 at the University Park campus, WUC 124 at the Biscayne Bay Campus or sent to beacon@fiu.edu. Letters must include the writer’s full name, year in school, major/department and a valid phone number for verification purposes. If brought in to an office, a legitimate ID may be accepted instead of a phone number. The Beacon reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and/or spacing constraints. Letters must adhere to a maximum of 400 words.

Layout 9-02-04.indd 1 9/1/04 11:23:58 AM 6 The Beacon – September 2, 2004 NEW ADDITIONS www.beaconnewspaper.com 7

Other new additions Constructing BuildingExpanding

Growing HEALTH SERVICES COMPLEX ErectingRaising andEvolving

NEW UPA ENTRANCE ON SW 11 ST.

PANTHER GARAGE

COURTESY PHOTO New buildings offer glimpse of modern University design RECREATION CENTER

By JOHN LOVELL office buildings. Two retail spaces will also Managing Editor be available, with a possibility of space for a U.S. Postal Service he cloud of white gravel dust Other new FIU additions are begin- looming over the construction- ning to finish up as well. Two new parking Tridden University Park Campus is garages (one of them already open and in about to settle. The loud drills have finally service) will bring relief to the commuters, stopped (for the most part) and in no time offering several hundred more spaces. the detours will disappear. Along with the A new recreational center will open as new buildings begins a new era at FIU, which well, turning the existing gym into the has recently been rated as one of the fastest athletes’ gym. growing universities in the nation. In the short span of three decades, FIU The Graham Center expansion seems has blossomed into a major facility with a to be the focal point of all the renovation plethora of modern buildings. If in only ALL PHOTOS BY JOHN LOVELL/THE BEACON FACE LIFTS AND MAKE OVERS: The University Park campus will be receiving a number of new additions in the upcoming school year, some of which have already at FIU, or at least the most visible. The one year the face of FIU can change so RED PARKING GARAGE AND opened. The new Graham Center Atrium (above) will feature an enormous glass pane and extra rooms for restaurants, offices and retail shops. JOHN LOVELL/THE BEACON new wing of the student center will sport rapidly, who knows where we’ll be after a brand new food court and other campus the next ten? NEW 109 ST. ENTRANCE

9-02-04.indd 1 9/1/04 12:22:35 PM September 2, 2004 WWW.BEACONNEWSPAPER.COM The Beacon - 8 Students received with entertainment

Welcome Week 2004

FEELING HOT, HOT, HOT: Students make molds of their hands in hot wax, one of more popular activities taking place at BBC. The wax cools, solidifies into the shape of a hand and is painted CHOW TIME: Clifford Williams (left) enjoys some different colors. ROBERT IRIZARRY/THE BEACON BOUNCIN’ AROUND: An inflatable bounce maze hamburgers with friend, Christian Jeannet (right) at entices students to take a fun break between classes. BOBBY IRIZARRY/THE BEACON the Freshman Lunch at BBC. BOBBY IRIZARRY/THE BEACON USHERING IN A NEW CROWD

Polyphonic Spree: From feel good sounds to pastel gowns

By TOM MOON appealing to me.” The 38-year-old former Knight Ridder Newspapers rocker and father of three, whose band put out several acclaimed The No. 1 question that Tim DeLaugh- records in the early `90s, says he had ter, leader of , gets grown bored with the highly format- when people see his 25-member group ted songwriting that is the status quo in wearing flowing choir robes in pastel rock, and the sameness of its instrumental colors, and singing unabashedly positive sounds. He wanted to completely change Up With People-ish songs: Is this some the canvas. kind of a cult? “It’s not like I was thinking I needed The second question: Is there room to have this many singers or anything. for one more? It was more about experimenting with “Every show, somebody comes up something that would never be confused to us with this look in their eyes, and with whatever else was going on. We’re you just know they want to be in it,” so out of the musical climate, I don’t DeLaughter said a few weeks back, on think people know what to make of this the day the -based band’s long- band.” awaited new album, “Together We’re The songs of “Together We’re Heavy” Heavy” (Hollywood), arrived in stores. came about through improvisation. THOSE AREN’T SHEETS?!: The unusual Polyphonic Spree (above) recently performed “I mean, they’re really serious. They’re DeLaughter would bring in a skeletal at MTV’s Video Music Awards. Their poppy, uplifting songs and peculiar robe attire prepared to relocate. I’ve got enough idea, and strum the chords while singing often leave people in awe. COURTESY PHOTO people to start three more Polyphonic what he hears as the melody. Sprees right now.” The musicians, many of whom are clas- But, in the next breath, he acknowl- no clear-cut agenda.” As for the robes, Sure, there’s a novelty aspect at work. sically trained, would fall in around him; edges that the themes do resonate differ- DeLaughter says they’re just another way But the appeal of this mammoth cham- they are encouraged to add counter lines ently when sung by such a large ensemble: to differentiate his group. ber-pop group goes deeper. The 10 sing- or whatever else they hear. “It works out, conveniently, that having “I was thinking a lot about the way ers interpret DeLaughter’s earnest songs “Most of these people grew up reading so many people sing gives the lyrics people look at someone’s clothes, and of faith and devotion like sacred texts, sheet music. At first they’d ask what key extra weight. And I like that. It’s sort they made judgments about what kind of singing in powerful youth-choir unison and what the chords were, and I had to of uncharted waters, this very innocent a person they’re looking at,” DeLaughter or simple two-part harmony. The instru- get them to let go of inhibitions. Now, way of talking about being human in says. “That’s annoying to me. I wanted mental accompaniment tends toward the when we work on material, it’s `Let’s all these times. something to unify the group, and the florid, with flutes and and just play and see where we go with it.’” Some people see it as almost borderline first image was white robes, so I went to multiple keyboards offsetting electric When asked if he purposely leaned in hokey. But to us it’s key, because some my mother-in-law, and boom _ right away and a traditional rock rhythm sec- the direction of the idealistic _ if not the sort of spirit is there when we perform. we made the robes. At first the idea was to tion. And the songs are big, epic creations celestial _ when writing the Spree’s lyrics, And we’re not afraid of communicating project images on the (white robes), but _ sometimes exhibiting a touch of Brian DeLaughter referred back to Tripping that.” as we’ve gone along, we’re so much more Wilson, or the grandeur of Electric Light Daisy. “From when I first started in music For the record, DeLaughter says that of a band and a family, we’ve realized Orchestra. to today, the general tone of hope has despite all the spirit talk, the Polyphonic there’s a lot of vividness, a lot of color. DeLaughter’s original idea was simple: always been my subject matter. I didn’t Spree is not a cult. “I haven’t adopted So now each of us wears our own color “I wanted to create a sound that was change my lyrics for the group.” a specific religion in the songs. There’s – we’re like pixels on a TV screen.”

LIFE!09-02-04.indd 1 9/1/04 12:46:13 PM www.beaconnewspaper.com The Beacon – September 2, 2004 9 Clinique Bonus Time Your 6-piece gift free with any 19.50 Clinique purchase

Deluxe size Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion

City Block Sheer Shimmer Oil-Free Daily Face Protector Different SPF 15 in Golden Lipstick in Raspberry Glacé

Clinique Cosmetics Bag

Makeup quad including a Pair of Shades Eye Shadow in Lovey Dovey &High Impact Eye New! Advanced Shadow in Foxy, Soft-Pressed Powder Blusher in Stop Signs Eye SPF 15 New Clover, and Glosswear Mini for Lips in Air Kiss.

Quantities are limited. One gift per customer. While supplies last.

New! Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel. Perfect for oilier skin. Now Clinique’s finest moisture drink is available in a refreshing gel. This lightweight formula works to soften, smooth and improve. Shown: 4.2 fl. oz. bottle with pump. $22 Also available in a travel-size 1.7 fl. oz tube. $11

100% fragrance free. Allergy tested.

Clinique. Proud sponsor of the 5th Annual Latin GRAMMY® Awards.

www.burdinesmacys.com TO ORDER CALL 1•8OO•334•SHOP EVERY DAY 8 AM – 11 PM page10.sports.sec12.indd 4 9/1/04 12:29:10 PM 10 The Beacon – September 2, 2004 SPORTS www.beaconnewspaper.com Volleyball Coach Cookie Stevens optimistic on season despite a high number of new players

By NATALIE SABIA ule of games your team will be playing Staff Writer this season? I think the schedule is very challenging Q: How have you and the team been but very doable as far as wins against con- preparing for this upcoming season? ference opponents and exciting to play We have been practicing at least two the new non-conference opponents. times each day for the last 2 weeks and we Q: How do you get the team in shape have been doing team building exercises, for the season? physical conditioning, individual skill The players worked hard to come in work, team concepts and strategies. to training camp in good physical shape, Q: What are your expectations for before they got here. Of course, some this season? more than others. But training two times I am very encouraged that even a day, every day for two weeks - gets you though this is a new team of players, we in shape quickly. have good talent and some players with It will take a few matches to find the experience already to help us be competi- right combinations. This process is ongo- tive from the start. Our goal is to work ing throughout the season. Many things hard and put the puzzle pieces together can affect the puzzle: injuries, players each week, that will bring us success. going in and out of mental slumps and Q: Are you excited about the new confidence levels. players? But our job as coaches is to train the Very excited, these players are hard team everyday and try to bring the best working, dedicated and passionate about out of each player helping them to gain a playing and winning. higher level of performance every couple Q: How do you mold your young of weeks. players? Q: What do you think is the best way Demand from them everyday a level to maintain a strategy for winning? of excellence on and off the court and Know our strengths and weaknesses as be consistent and caring. They have to a team. Capitalize on our strengths and know the coaches care about them as reduce our weak areas. Know what our people first. opponent is capable of, plan for it, and FIRED UP: Coach Cookie Stevens is counting on new players to step up this season. Q: How do you feel about the sched- set realistic goals. Many players are veterans transfering from community colleges. HARRY COLEMAN/THE BEACON

SPORTS WRITERS NEEDED! CONTACT SPORTS EDITOR HARRY COLEMAN AT [email protected] FOR MORE INFORMATION

page10.sports.sec12.indd 2 9/1/04 12:12:27 PM www.beaconnewspaper.com SPORTS The Beacon – September 2, 2004 11 FIU not ready for Division I-A football

COMMENTARY all of you Sun Belt schools, game. work and skillful people. All the football teams, FAU or FIU too, even if you’re the worst 3. FIU has never beaten a rabbit’s feet and four-leaf clovers cannot afford to let the other conference in I-A football. FIU scholarship opponent. All of in South Florida would probably get too far ahead of them, lest wouldn’t be here without you. their wins have come against help, too. the one left behind be deemed I’m pretty excited about my non-scholarship I-AA schools, FIU Athletic Director Rick irrelevant. Golden Panthers moving up which means that the majority Mello has told me – and every- FAU’s move to the Sun Belt to the level of Miami, Florida of those school’s athletes don’t one else he talks to – that FIU also put pressure on FIU; don’t and Florida State. And there’s get a scholarship to play football. had to make this move now, think the other conference mem- certainly a nice ring to this state- Like most of FIU’s students, despite all the facts I listed above. bers weren’t putting the screws By MESSOD BENDAYAN ment: “FIU’s transition from those student-athletes usually And he may be right; events in on FIU to make the jump when Contributing Writer I-AA to I-A is the fastest ever.” pay for school out of their own Coral Gables and Boca Raton their neighbor to the north Oh, you haven’t heard that pocket. certainly forced his hand. and fellow conference rival had Well, here we are, folks. Part yet? Guess you’ve been at the All Division I-A programs Miami’s move to the Atlantic already done so. trois of FIU Football. Year uno beach all summer. Get used to grant at least 85 scholarships, Coast Conference saw a domino To protect FIU’s massive of I-A. it. You’re going to be hearing and FIU has yet to beat one of effect on every other conference, investment in the big money- It seems like yesterday when it. A lot. Especially when the those teams. especially small ones like the maker of all collegiate sports, 17, 314 fans packed into FIU losses come. 4. FIU has averaged roughly Sun Belt. Mello was forced to put his John Community Stadium to see the I’m a Golden Panthers fan, to 7,000 fans a game, which is They lost New Mexico State Hancock on this move, even Inaugural Game, way back on be sure. But, I’m also an aspiring 8,000 short of what they need and Utah State to the Western though he (and pretty much Aug. 29, 2002. I was a sopho- media geek, and in the business if they’re to stay I-A past 2005, Athletic Conference after the everyone else in FIU) knows more, then, and that game was I hope to go into, facts are facts. according to the NCAA. lost some of their schools to that this program isn’t ready my first taste of being a football And the facts about this move 5. FIU Community Sta- other conferences. for I-A. play-by-play broadcaster. are depressingly simple: FIU dium needs a makeover like That put the Sun Belt with To delay was probably to be Now, I’m about to graduate. I isn’t ready for big-time college Pam Anderson needed breast less football teams, jeopardizing left behind Owl poop and Hur- get to call five more games before football. implants. That is, unless FIU’s their I-A status with the NCAA. ricane debris for good. Radio Golden Panther sends me Here’s 5 reasons why: looking to be on the Top 5 list of FIU’s already a Sun Belt member To delay would almost cer- packing. And my school’s about 1. The Golden Panthers’ all- ‘smallest and ugliest I-A Football in all of their other sports, tainly mean that FIU better start to get its first taste of big-time time record: 7 wins, 16 losses. stadiums’. and they need to use Sun Belt looking for another conference college football. Most of their opponents up But at least it’s not called schools to get 5 I-A schools to to call home. Too much had Goodbye, St. Peter’s College, to this point have been I-AA something totally nasty and play at FIU next year, an NCAA been invested into Football to Elon, Butler, Gardner-Webb, schools. The difference between disgusting, like Pharmed Arena requirement for moving to I-A. see that happen now. It was time Albany and all of the other I-AA and I-A is huge. It’s like (formerly known as Golden If FIU doesn’t go I-A now, the to perform the football equiva- small-time Division I-AA schools comparing the Florida Marlins Panther Arena). Yet. Sun Belt and FIU is up a certain lent of a Caesarean birth. FIU played during these last to the Durham Bulls, or com- To say that this move is pre- kind of creek with no paddles. So, here we go with part trois two years. It’s been a pleasure paring the Miami Dolphins to mature is an injustice to the word Florida Atlantic’s move to of FIU Football. A premature knowing you. Good luck in the Miami’s former arena football “premature.” This is like a baby I-A put the Golden Panthers in baby is about to be born into a future. league franchise, the Hooters being born only five months an unenviable position. FAU, very unforgiving world. Hello, Kansas State, – both of whom can claim FIU in the womb and expecting it overall, is better-prepared to For its sake, I hope this baby’s Tech, Alabama and all of the Head Coach as a to live. make the move than FIU is, strong enough to begin walking other Division I-A schools FIU former member. Sure, it can happen, but it’s and in a market that may well on its own quick. History is not has yet to schedule. Oh, and 2. FIU has never won a road going to take a lot of hard be over-saturated with college on its side. Under new coach ‘Tiger’ Clark, defense switches to 4-3 formation

By HENRY GONZALEZ they did passing (172), bert, defensive line coach. trying to make a tackle. offense. Opposing teams It covers all the gaps and Contributing Writer defensive line changes are “We’re more familiar with While arduous, this task outscored FIU all season produces more pressure a must. the 4-3 because that’s how is not impossible and is and why the Panthers pro- on the quarterback,” said Twenty-eight points Last year’s team opened we first started”. successfully executed by duced a disappointing Clark. per game, a four-and-a- the season playing a 3-4 Last season’s 3-4 style many teams. However, 2-10 record. The players also seem to half yard rushing average alignment. As a result, the demanded large defensive the defenses that accom- This year, FIU acquired agree that the new defense and a miniscule 21 sacks. defense suffered and was tackles that can handle at plish this enlist gargan- a full-time defensive coor- will allow them to be more When you couple those forced to revert to the least two offensive line- tuan men on their rosters dinator to avoid last year’s proactive. under acheving numbers original 4-3 scheme half- men. That means putting who routinely exceed 300 debacle. Ex Bernard Claker “We’ll be able to attack with the fact that oppos- way into the schedule. up with, and pushing off pounds. is taking over the squad more with the 4-3 because ing teams averaged more “We had to change it nearly 600 pounds every The Golden Panthers do in hopes of improving a offensive linemen will have yards rushing (227) than up,” declared Coach Tau- play while simultaneously not have that luxury. The defense that gave up 28.4 more defenders to block,” defensive tackle average on points per game. said linebacker Gerrod the team was 257 pounds. “I’m bringing a lot of Bodie,. The large discrepancy in different things with me,” With more defensive weight represents trouble. said Clark. players on the line of scrim- It means opposing linemen For one, he is focus- mage, linebackers will have are usually heavier, leading ing on the 4-3 defensive more room to run and to offensive success for the scheme and plans to bol- make plays. The old 3-4 enemy. ster it with the addition formation let offensive Opposing teams found of a 4-6 defense. The 4-6 linemen go out and chase big holes to run through simply brings a safety up to linebackers. and had lots of time act as an extra linebacker. It also let them domi- to release the football. This move will undoubt- nate defensive linemen Because of this, it should edly help the run defense by double-teaming them. come as no surprise that by providing one extra These problems will be teams averaged more than tackler near the line of minimized by the new 10 minutes of possession scrimmage. The 3-4 will set up. time against the Golden not be totally abolished, “I’m excited because Panthers. but will only be used I won’t have to deal with Giving up an extra ten sparingly in situational linemen coming at me DEFENDANTS: , Nick Turnbull and Greg Moss are key defense players. minutes of offense tires downs. this year,” said linebacker HARRY COLEMAN/THE BEACON the defense and limits the “I feel the 4-3 is better. Lance Preston.

Sports Writers needed! Contact Sports Editor Harry Coleman at HCole001@fiu.edu for more information

9/2/04 4 9/1/04 12:55:57 PM www.beaconnewspaper.com SPORTS The Beacon – September 2, 2004 12

TRIUMPHANT TRIO: Quarterbacks David Taber, Josh Padrick, and Jamie Burke are the top three in FIU’s death chart. DANNY KAMBELD/SPECIAL TO THE BEACON Position by Position Analysis: FIU strong at QB, Receivers, weak on offensive lines

By ANDRES CORDERO The unit has given up 76 sacks for touchdowns, rushing yards and yards bit as good as it has been. They are the Staff Writer 583 yards over the past two seasons. per game. school’s only career 1,000 yard receivers. With junior John Shanahan suffering a The team’s leading rusher in 2003 was Both played in all 12 games last season, With the 2-10 record neatly tucked high-ankle sprain in a recent scrimmage, full back Adam Gorman (736 yards, 8 and were a huge part of Josh Padrick’s in the back of their minds, the Golden FIU will start the season with three TD), who stepped in because of injuries break-out season. Panthers are set to kick-off a new foot- offensive linemen sidelined. Tackle Tim and was named the offensive player of the Also in the mix will be senior Chandler ball season. The sports world is cyclical Dierks (knee) and Guard Jonathan Taylor year. He and Diamos Demerritt became Williams and junior Andre Rollins. Wil- and once the disappointment of a losing (shoulder), who combined for 1,579 the first FIU tandem to rush for 100 yards liams is an experienced threat that made season fades, it’s replaced with the hope snaps in 2003, will be alongside Shanahan each in the same game last year. Demer- 29 catches for 460 yards last year as the and prospect of a clean slate. on the injured list. ritt will not be back because of the six number three receiver playing the slot. Regardless of last season’s perfor- Offensive Line Coach Leon Searcy will felony counts he’s being charged with as Rollins has been impressive in the mance, every team kicks off the Fall with look for converted defensive tackle Ronny a result of his alleged involvement in an spring after returning from a shoulder a zero in the loss column. FIU will try Silva and freshman Tad McConahie to on-campus robbery attempt. injury. At 6-foot-4 and 222 pounds, the to add wins by relying on its strength, contribute. McConahie is a 6-feet-3, 310- The player expected to fill the team’s big guy out of Carol City High can be the offense. While it’s a widely accepted pound lineman who can play guard, tackle starting role as halfback is returning a good option at the slot or wide-out cliché that defense wins games, it’s still and center. His strength and versatility has senior Rashod Smith, who battled injuries position. He looks more comfortable in impossible to win without putting points earned him praise from the coaching staff throughout the 2003 season. Smith is the the offense than in previous years and on the board. What follows is a preview and made him a viable option to fill some school’s only career 1,000 yard rusher. In should see more time in the wide receiver of the individual parts that make up the of the holes left by injury. The bottom line his sophomore season, Smith was voted rotation. offensive unit for 2004. is games are won and lost along the line of team MVP by his teammates after rushing Quarterbacks Offensive Line scrimmage and the offense will need the for 784 yards in just nine games. If ever there was a strong position on The O-line is the backbone of any O-line to hold up to be effective. The player to keep an eye on is true this team, this is it. The Golden Panthers offense. Unfortunately for the Golden Running Backs freshman Julian Reams out of Coral Reef have a good situation at quarterback with Panthers, this is where the team is in The Golden Panther’s ground attack High School. A true freshman is a player the return of Josh Padrick and a healthy most disarray. FIU has two very capable rushed for 1,417 yards and 16 touch- directly out of high school. He’s making Jamie Burke. Padrick stepped in for quarterbacks on its roster and it may need downs in 2003. When placed side-by- strides in practice and coaches like his the injured Burke in 2003 and quickly them both if the O-line can’t protect the side with last year’s quickness as well as his ability to make became the story of the year en route to starter. teams, the ground game ranks 6th in cuts and hit holes. a school record 2,493 yards. Tight Ends The number of sacks decreased with Junior Joe Struyf will be sidelined Padrick under center due in part to his with a possible season-ending surgery. superior mobility over Burke. After aver- This means that the door is open for aging 226.3 yards per game and complet- either Samuel Smith or Moses Hinton ing nearly 50 percent of his passes, the to step into the starting role. Smith is a starting job is his to lose. sophomore who caught 9 passes for 119 Burke is returning from his third yards in 11 games as a true freshman. career ACL surgery and has spent much Coaches are impressed with his progress of the off-season getting stronger. He and he holds a slight advantage over the was impressive in his freshman year and freshman Hinton. is expected to challenge for the start- Hinton is a big and physical player who ing spot. David Tabor is an experienced at 6-foot-5, 260 pounds can be a force back up who can step in if things go at the line of scrimmage. The tight end terribly wrong for the number one and position is the biggest toss-up on the team two guys. and the former Delray Beach standout has The addition of Tavares Kendrick is a legitimate shot to start a solid move for the future of this team. Receivers Kendrick was the top rated quarterback The receiver position is one of the out of the top-25 Miami-Dade recruits strongest on the FIU offense. With and should be the quarterback of the returning starters such as Harold Leath future for FIU. At 6-foot-3 and 220 (6-foot-3, 199lbs) and Cory McKinney pounds, he runs a 4.60 second 40-yard dash. He is praised for his size, speed, and BULLET PASS: Josh Padrick practices hard to secure his position as starting quarterback (6-foot-3, 219 lbs.) both healthy, the team’s passing game should be every powerful arm. on FIU’s team. HARRY COLEMAN/THE BEACON

9/2/04 2 9/1/04 12:54:29 PM