Feb. 17, 2010

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Are bow ties coming back? 1B

Central Michigan Life

Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2010

Mount Pleasant, Mich.

[cm-life.com]

Grade distribution nixed from Portal Provost finds opinion surveys more helpful By Emily Pfund Staff Reporter

Interim Provost Gary Shapiro said at the Academic Senate meeting Tuesday that student grade distributions have been removed from the Central Michigan University Portal. However, he approved the posting of results from completed Student Opinion Surveys in their place and aims to have them online by fall 2010. “The big question I asked myself was, ‘What would be the impact on student learning?’” Shapiro said. In a statement distributed at the meeting, Shapiro stated, concerning the grade

distributions, he “can find no compelling argument that such posting would enhance learning.” Shapiro said his main concern is students would use that information to shop for “easy A’s.” Spring 2009’s grade distributions, which allowed students to view the grades professors issued in past semesters, were posted on the Portal with the approval of then-provost Julia Wallace in response to a request made by the Student Government Association. A group of department chairs voted Oct. 21 to approve a resolution to remove the data, however. SOS forms The Academic Senate voted 26-19 on Feb. 2 to support publishing the SOS forms on A Academic Senate | 2A

board of trustees

nathan kostegian/staff photographer

Budget could be discussed Thursday Medical school also to get formal name, groundbreaking By Sarah Schuch Senior Reporter

Budget reduction suggestions and a formal establishment of the College of Medicine are topics slated for Thursday’s Board of Trustees meeting. The meeting will begin at 9:30 a.m. in the President’s Conference Room at Bovee University Center. In a previous interview, Interim University President Kathy Wilbur said she expected to have recommendations for how the university should reduce costs by the time trustees convened.

If you go... w w w

CMU’s Board of Trustees meeting When: 9:30 a.m. Thursday Where: President’s Conference Room, Bovee University Center

Dan Enos, 41, began the position of CMU’s new head football coach on Jan. 12. Enos left his job as running back coach at Michigan State.

‘Pleasant’ settling Dan Enos in stride after recruiting stage, before spring ball

cm-life.com See cm-life.com at 9:30 a.m. Thursday for a live chat from the meeting. She was unavailable for comment Tuesday. Wilbur received the 3, 6 and 9 percent budget reduction recommendations from the cost centers Monday. Steve Smith, director of public relations, said if Wilbur talks about budget cuts, it will be in the President’s Report. But Smith is uncertain where Wilbur is in her review of the reduction suggestions. Central Michigan Life sent a Freedom of Information of Act request to Central Michigan University’s general counsel Feb. 8 for the 3, 6 and 9 percent budget reduction suggestions sent to Wilbur. The request was denied Friday. Also on the Board’s agenda is a proposal to recognize the College of Medicine and make it official, said Interim A Board | 2A

[inside] BIKE LANE COMING Franklin Street getting addition without road construction, 3A

NEW FOOTBALL COACH SETS UP SHOP

CHINA-CMU CONNECTION Student reflects on time covering Beij ing olympics, 3A

By Daniel Monson | Senior Reporter

J

an. 12 was an exciting day for Dan Enos. His first day as Central Michigan University’s head football coach was spent meeting his team for the first time, answering questions from the media and taking in his surroundings. But on the car ride home with his family to their Lansing home, it hit him. “I almost had an anxiety attack,” Enos said. “I was thinking about everything that I had to do.” He kept busy the next three weeks, managing CMU’s recruiting class and filling the spots of those who defected to other programs after former coach Butch Jones left for Cincinnati. But Enos is finding his stride a little more than a month later. He has conducted his first on-field workouts with the team, implementing a regimen called the “Fourth Quarter Program,” which consists of four conditioning drills that give the coaching staff a better indication of what they inherited. The program was adapted from a system used by Buck Nystrom, who coached under George Perles at Michigan State when Enos quarterbacked the Spartans in the late 1980s. Nystrom’s son, Kyle, is now an assistant coach in charge of special teams and linebackers under Enos. Coaches have been assigned recruiting roles and players have broken into units on offense, defense and

special teams. So Enos must have all of the more than 80 returning players’ names down, right? “No. I’m working on it,” he said, laughing. “I’ve got tape and I handwrite ‘Coach Enos’ on it and put it on my shirt. EvNick Bellore ery trainer, every coach, every player has got it on there.” Enos focuses on leveling with his players — ensuring their input is welcomed and considered. “Even offensively and defensively, we’ve asked them, ‘What did you do here (before)?’” he said. “We want to empower them, too. We don’t

sit here and claim we have all the answers.” Linebacker Nick Bellore, who returns for his senior season, said Enos has reached out to the players, including meeting with each player on the roster during his first week. “He’s just a really young, energetic guy,” Bellore said. “He’s been a little more laid back, but we really haven’t been through the fire yet in terms of spring ball and that kind of stuff.” Getting settled Enos is not exactly rooted in yet, however. He and his wife, Jane, will close on a house in midMarch and look to move to Mount Pleasant in early April. But he won’t carry on the tradition of living in the for-

more Inside sports w Q&A with Dan Enos about his taste in food, movies, music and more, 6A

mer coach’s abode, such as Jones did when he moved into Brian Kelly’s house after Kelly left for Cincinnati in 2006. “I think I disappointed everybody,” Enos said, laughing. His daughter, Idalia, in third grade, will switch schools at that point and finish the school year in Mount Pleasant. His son, Alex, has yet to begin school. For now, Enos resides in an off-campus apartment complex after calling the Comfort Inn home for three weeks. His family stays in Lansing, but he still receives plenty of visits from Jane, who dropped by his office last week with lunch in hand. He also often makes trips to Lansing on some weekends.

A Enos | 6A

Sapphire speaks in Plachta on ‘Push’ book By Sherri Keaton Senior Reporter

At the age of 12, a child was impregnated by her father. Years later, as a 32-yearold woman taking classes for her GED, she was in need of a babysitter for her 20-year-old daughter with down syndrome. This true story, among many others, was told to Ramona Lofton, the author known as Sapphire, who later wrote the novel, “Push.” “I felt like (I was) hit by a truck,” said Sapphire, recalling

the experience of hearing the woman’s story. “Air escaped my body and that incident became the seed for the novel, “Push.” Tuesday evening in Warriner Hall’s Plachta Auditorium, a crowd of about 400 people listened as Sapphire read excerpts of “Push,” among other readings from writers who influenced her book. The poem “Moonchild” by the late Lucille Clifton inspired Sapphire to step out of restrictions that once confounded her. “That poem helped women

cm-life.com See the Web site for a video recap from Tuesday’s event. step out of boxes that have been prepared for by black men and white women,” she said. “That path to literature was no longer closed to me.” She discussed how African American sexual violence can be different than white sexual violence because of historical effects such as masters raping through slavery, even though

See “Precious” The Central Michigan International Film Festival will screen the film adaptation of Sapphire’s novel, "Push." w Noon March 20, 21 at Celebration! Cinema both acts are deplorable. “African Americans have the highest HIV rates, silence will not save African Americans and that work begins with A Push | 2A

paige calamari/staff photographer

Sapphire, the Black History Month keynote speaker, laughs after an audience member asks about her personal life Tuesday night in Warriner Hall’s Plachta Auditorium. Sapphire spoke about her book, “Push,” which transpired into the Oscar-nominated movie, “Precious.”

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2A || Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2010 || Central Michigan Life

EVENTS CALENDAR today

w African American Women of Hope, a poster series featuring 12 black women, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the Bovee University Center’s Multicultural Education Center, as part of Black History Month. w A Native American Studies visiting professor’s artwork is on display from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Charles V. Park Library Baber Room. w Welcome to Idlewild: The Black Eden of Michigan, a traveling display, is on exhibition from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the third floor of the Charles V. Park Library. w The deadline is today for students to participate in the 2010 annual juried CMU Student Art Exhibition for a $5 fee. For info: 774 - 3800. w Jocelyn Benson, democratic candidate for the Michigan Secretary of State, is speaking from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Charles V. Park Library Auditorium as part of the 2010 Election Kickoff Series. w The Study Abroad Scholarship Essay Writing workshop is from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Anspach Hall 003, where students can get a jump start on their essay for study abroad scholarship applications.

Thursday

w Project Management Part II, a half-day workshop for anyone with a plan, is from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Rowe Hall 229. w A Benefit and Retirement Orientation for new employees is taking place from 1 to 4 p.m. in Foust Hall 133. w The film “El Laberinto del Fauno” will be screened by the Spanish program at 5 p.m. in Pearce Hall 327.

Corrections Central Michigan Life has a long-standing commitment to fair and accurate reporting. It is our policy to correct factual errors. Please e-mail news@cm-life.com. © Central Michigan Life 2010 Volume 91, Number 58

cm-life.com

board | continued from 1A

Medical School Dean Cam Enarson. “Right now, it’s considered a school, and that’s confusing people,” he said. “(If approved) it’s not just a thought. It’s a formal entity of the university.” To hire faculty, there needs to be a college to hire them into, Enarson said. The College of Medicine’s approval would make it comparable to the other academic units on campus, he said. The college’s groundbreaking also will take place at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Health Professions Building. Other agenda items Interim Provost Gary Shapiro is requesting approval for the president or designee to sign a three- to fiveyear contract with a vendor to provide infrastructure for the SAP enterprise computing environment for no more than $500,000 per year. The SAP computer system is CMU’s basic software package for the administrative community. It is used for financial record keeping, human resources, student records and other things. SAP also is used in some business classes. The infrastructure is the component needed to run any system, Shapiro said. By signing a contract with another company, CMU would not have to provide all the infrastructure.

the Portal, then received Shapiro’s approval Tuesday. The SOS data, filled out by students at semester’s end for each class, was previously available only on CD through the reference desk at Charles V. Park Library. “We did want both (to be posted online), but the SOS was a lot more important,” said Muskegon senior Dave Breed, SGA representative in the Academic Senate. “If we had to pick one, it would be the SOS.” Jason Nichol, SGA president and Mount Pleasant senior, said he was happy with the decision. “Losing the grade distribution is unfortunate, but we’d rather have the SOS,” Nichol said. He said the SOS data tells students more about the qual-

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ity of a professor’s teaching than the grade distribution. “We truly appreciate the provost taking time to hear all sides. I know it was a tough decision,” Nichol said. Shapiro will form an adhoc committee composed of two faculty members, two SGA members, the director of Institutional Research and the vice provost for Administrative Affairs. The committee will present suggestions on how the data should be presented online no later than April 19. university@cm-life.com

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Carla Ives, pastor of Potter’s House Family Worship Center and co-founder of Heart Cry International, discusses ways to transport relief material to Haiti on Tuesday at Heart Cry International’s office on Bellows Street. The yellow boxes piled on her desk are left over from packing bags of candy, stickers and crayons to bring with her to Haiti on Sunday. Ives has been working since 10 a.m. to get ready for her trip and has only had time to eat a packet of Swiss Cake Rolls during her busy day.

Jason Nichol, SGA President and Mount Pleasant senior, said the CPF received an additional $26,000 this year, so SGA will discuss different options on how to spend it. “I was just thrilled to get it, especially in these nasty budget times,” Nichol said. The meeting also will include a Residential Hall Assembly update including the future of On the Fly Productions programming. university@cm-life.com

push | continued from 1A

telling our stories out loud to whoever will listen,” Sapphire said in response to a critic of her book. Since her novel was published in 1996, she has spoken to thousands of sexually abused women. “(I will) continue to take stories of women and turn them into fiction,” she said. In the book, when the protagonist, Precious, attempted to give birth to her first child, her mother kicked her in the head and called her a slut

WEATHER FORECAST Today

40 percent chance of precipitation

High 34/Low 23 Snow Showers

Thursday

30 percent chance of precipitation

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Friday

20 percent chance of precipitation

High 32/Low 18 Cloudy

because Precious slept with her mother’s boyfriend, even though Precious was raped by her father. After being kicked out of school because she was pregnant for the second time from her father — and the administrators not knowing it was by rape — Precious went to an alternative school. “I don’t know what an alternative is, but I feel I want to know,” Sapphire said of Precious. During the question-andanswer segment at Plachta, one student asked where the healing begins after a struggle. “I truly believe education is one of the ways we can begin to

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Student Liaison Meeting The Student Liaison Committee meeting takes place from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. today in the Bovee University Center Terrace Room C. The Student Government Association will discuss Student Opinion Survey results being put online, what to do with the increased funding in the Campus Programming Fund and the group’s involvement in the Student Association of Michigan, among other issues.

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Other items Up to $300,000 is being requested for the purchase of National Science Foundation grant-funded equipment for the Department of Human Environmental Studies, with a thermal mannequin costing $244,700 and a sweating guarded hotplate costing $42,500. The total comes to $287,200. A few department name changes also are on the agenda. The Department of Engineering and Technology could be renamed the School of Engineering and Technology. The Department of Geology is proposed to be the Department of Geology and Meteorology.

academic senate | continued from 1A

PHOTO OF THE DAY

“It would allow us to run SAP more effectively and at less cost,” Shapiro said. “(Getting approval) allows us to investigate and to sign a contract if that is in the best interest of the university.”

change our life,” Sapphire said. Lester Booker Jr., Minority Student Services interim assistant director, said Sapphire’s message had relevance to students. “(She) opened up their eyes to issues that face all races and ethnicities,” Booker said. Mount Pleasant resident Erna Marquardt said Precious’ story resonated in her heart. “You never know that there are so many things going on at home,” Marquardt said. “I felt like saying ‘Lord open my heart again’ for the kids and looking to see where their needs are.” studentlife@cm-life.com

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inside life Central Michigan Life

3A

Wednesday, Feb 17, 2010

Student bikers looking toward new paths Cost would be minimal with no road construction

from Preston Street to Bellows Street. The path will come without road construction. “We just have to paint the lines up the street,” said Steve Lawrence, associate vice president of Facilities Management. “It’s a very low-cost project.” The exact cost of how much painting the lines will cost unknown, but Lawrence said it will be minimal. The uni-

By Seth Nietering Staff Reporter

Area bicyclists will soon have a new area to peddle. Central Michigan University is adding a bike lane this summer on Franklin Street,

versity owns the streets, so the painting can be done inhouse. Steve Shaffer, a Mount Pleasant freshman, likes the idea of an added bike lane. “I think it’s a great idea,” he said. “It will make the sidewalks a little less crowded.” Students who live in the area also think the lanes are a good decision. Kingsley junior Jeremy Ol-

son said he occasionally rides a bike to and from classes and sidewalk traffic can be a hassle. “The lanes will give bikers their own area, so they aren’t forced to ride on crowded sidewalks,” Olson said. Improved safety for pedestrians is an ongoing incentive for CMU and adding the bike lane is a sound decision, Lawrence said. “It’s an extremely low-cost

project to provide space for bikers,” he said. Olson said he feels better about the project, knowing it is beneficial for students, but will not add to the university’s financial struggles. “Low cost is a good thing right now. The university can’t afford to throw a lot of money around with all the budget cuts,” Olson said. university@cm-life.com

Program to discuss diversity awareness

Chippewa Lanes will host a Texas Hold ’Em fundraiser with proceeds benefiting the American Red Cross this week. The tournament takes place at 7 p.m. Thursday to Saturday and 5 p.m. Sunday at Chippewa Lanes, 1200 S. Mission St. The entry price is $25 Thursday, $30 Friday and Saturday and $60 Sunday. The overall event, including cash games, lasts from 5:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Thursday to Saturday and 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. Sunday.

The SIX Lounge will host “Alive and Aware,” a concert to benefit To Write Love On Her Arms, from 9 p.m. to midnight Thursday at its 1901 S. Mission St. location. TWLOHA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people struggling with depression, addiction, suicide and self-injury. The event will feature live music and a bake sale. Donations will be accepted throughout the night.

Summer Internships

By Edward Schutter Staff Reporter

A new program slated for Central Michigan University’s curriculum next fall will address diversity awareness in Isabella County. Intergroup Dialogue will focus primarily on race and ethnicity, but other topics such as class, gender or religion also will be discussed for students of different backgrounds to interact. The core of the program will be COM 255: Special Topics in Communication. “There is really not much opportunity for people to sit down and interact with each other,” said Ulana Klymyshyn, director of Multicultural Education. “The skills that we gain from experiences with people from other backgrounds carry over with us.” Some say a lack of cultural skills is evident within the area’s student population, but also in Isabella County at large. Carole Richardson, vice chairwoman of the county’s Human Rights Committee, said the county is doing its best to educate. “I think every member of the HRC recognizes that there is a problem,” she said. “We are continuing with the educational services that we provide and the feedback has been really positive.” Recently, 521 county residents were surveyed by a project team that explored racial and ethnic diversity. Sociology professor Mary Senter was a part of the team. She said two things were found to be evident with nonwhite members of the community. “People who identify as A Diversity | 5a

nathan kostegian/staff photographer

Yu Yilei, visiting sports editor of The China Daily, China’s largest English newspaper, speaks with Physical Education and Sport Instructor Steve Adler’s sports marketing graduate class about his experience covering the Olympic games. Yilei will be here for four months taking classes while a CMU student is in Beijing as an intern through the journalism department.

tale of two worlds China Daily sports editor compares experiences in Beijing, at CMU By Ariel Black Staff Reporter

Y

u Yilei knows a little more about the Olympics than the average person. Yilei is the sports editor for the China Daily, one of two English-speaking Chinese Daily newspapers, and the seventh China Daily employee to visit Central Michigan University in an exchange program. He has experience covering the 2004 Summer Olympic Games in Athens and the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing. “These athletes come a long way and endure many hardships,” Yilei said, thinking back on the experience. “I have to find the right way to communicate with them, especially after they have not been successful. It’s good to get those stories about what athletes truly think

of their careers.” Though he has covered many events, there are a few that stick out in Yilei’s mind. “I loved covering tennis because it is a personal favorite of mine,” he said. “Swimming was also another favorite because the stadium it was in, the ‘Water Cube’, looked like a dream. I was glad to witness it.” The Water Cube was built for the Olympics in Beijing, next to the National Stadium. He said he got to watch swimmer Michael Phelps, a notable figure in the 2008 Olympics, compete. “When Phelps was swimming, all the numbers had to do with eight,” Yilei said. “The number eight is considered a lucky number in China, and all the numbers with his race involved eight.” The program So far, eight CMU journal-

ism students have interned at the paper in Beijing, and the ninth will be on his way soon, said Jiafei Yin, professor of journalism and coordinator of the China Daily exchange program. “Yilei has extensive experience in covering international sports games and talked to quite a few classes already here at Central about the development of sports in China,” Yin said. “Later in the semester, he will be the featured speaker of a forum on campus, addressing the ties between China and the U.S., particularly in the area of sports development, which is rarely covered in the U.S. media.” Yilei said many differences exist between sports coverage in America compared to China. “After reading the sports section here in the U.S.,

I noticed how much bigger it was,” Yilei said. “The sports industry is going up in China and that is why I am working on expanding our team working on sports coverage.” He said there is a changing atmosphere in China regarding sports. He said sports organizations such as the NBA and NFL, once known only in America, have broadened their focus worldwide. Yin said the program set up between CMU and The China Daily provides both sides with invaluable learning opportunities. “Today’s young people are the citizens of the world and the future of the world,” Yin said. “As long as they get themselves well trained, there will be opportunities for them.” university@cm-life.com

Downtown boutique moves out of the basement Spunk and a good business sense have helped bring Kim Lovejoy’s downtown business out of the basement. Emma’s Basement Boutique will move from 120 1/2 E. Broadway St. in early March, leaving some of its name behind. The store will go by “Emma’s,” Lovejoy said. The current space is too small to serve the store’s expanding needs, she said. The new location at 111 S. University St. will make room for the addition of tween clothes and maternity. “I never anticipated it to grow this big,” Lovejoy said. “The space isn’t functional anymore.” The new location — just off Broadway and Main streets — could expand the downtown area, said Michelle Sponseller, downtown development director. It will make University more of a destination, she said of the street. “(Lovejoy’s) expanding her

Texas Hold ’em Fundraiser

Benefit concert

Lack of cultural skills ‘evident’ in student population

By Maryellen Tighe Senior Reporter

[Life in brief]

store, and it’s also taking a side street and helping it become more of an anchor,” Sponseller said. “It’s a win-win.” Next: A skate shop The space vacated by the boutique will not be empty for long. The Ruins Board Shop will move in. Daniel Burkacki-Wilson of Mount Pleasant heard the store was for lease through a mutual friend of Lovejoy’s daughter. Opening a business is a dream of his. “It’s underground. We figured it’d be a really trendy place to put a skate shop,” the Mid-Michigan Community College freshman said. “We wanted something downtown, obviously, because that is where everyone goes to skate.” The board shop will sell apparel and equipment for skateboarders and snowboarders. Burkacki-Wilson has worked on the project throughout the winter and plans to open the store in April. Lovejoy’s new business will be 17,000 square feet, unlike

the basement location, which is 9,000 square feet. The space is too small for people to see what is for sale, she said, and there was no room to introduce new lines.

Groove at the Grotto

Local musicians will perform acoustic sets from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. Thursday at The Grotto, 304 W. Broomfield Road. Performers will include the bands “This April” and “Bloomill.” Individual performers scheduled are Kevin Thibodeau, Ryan Sais, Zach Warner and Jake Akesteyn. Pizza deals also will be included.

Greek bowling

Sigma Alpha Epsilon will host a bowling tournament from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday at ULanes in the Student Activity Center. Proceeds will benefit the Children’s Miracle Network. Teams of six can enter to play for $50, which includes two games, shoe rental, pizza and pop. The highest scoring teams will advance to the next round. To register, e-mail Doug Booth at Booth1dj@ gmail.com. Also, Riverwood Resort, 1313 E. Broomfield Road, will offer free bowling to fraternities and sororities from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Monday at its bowling center. Sixteen lanes are available and will be given on a firstcome, first-serve basis.

Alyson Cambridge

Guest artist Alyson Cambridge will perform from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday at the Staples Family Concert Hall in the Music Building. Cambridge is an American soprano and is a frequent guest of the Metropolitan Opera. She is a graduate of the Metropolitan Opera’s Lindemann Young Artist Development Program and was previously Grand Prize winner of The Metropolitan Opera NationaCouncil Auditions in 2003.

Moving onward Despite the constraints, Lovejoy said her flair for unique merchandise has helped the business flourish. “All my life, everyone’s told me that I’m too inappropriate or too this or too that,” Lovejoy said. “I just wanted somewhere I could be myself and have fun.” Being herself takes a lot of work, as Lovejoy found out. She follows a lot of trends and does not stop working to have a unique shop, filling niche markets such as hats. She said she was lucky to launch her store in a low-rent location and hopes the incoming skate shop is just as successful. “I wish them all the luck in the world,” Lovejoy said. metro@cm-life.com

The Academy of Television Arts and Sciences is now accepting applications for its summer internship program. Undergraduate and graduate students can apply to work in categories including casting, costume design, music and special visual effects. The program is based in Los Angeles and lasts eight weeks. Alumni who have been chosen for the program have gone on to work for television projects including “The Bold and the Beautiful” and “Married with Children,” according to a company statement. The deadline to apply is March 15. For more information, visit emmysfoundation.com or call (818) 754- 2800.

Making soap

People interested in creating soap can do so at a soap-making session from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Art Reach of Mid Michigan, 319 S. University Ave. Signup is $25 for non-members.

paige calamari/staff photographer

Mount Pleasant resident Dorothy Jenicke, 26, tries on an apron Tuesday afternoon in Emma’s Basement Boutique, 120 1/2 E. Broadway St. The boutique will move to a new location at 111 S. University St. in March.

Heidi Fenton, Managing Editor | news@cm-life.com | 989.774.4343

If you have an interesting item for Life in Brief, let us know by e-mailing news@cm-life.com.

voices Central Michigan Life

4A Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2010

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” – The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution

[cm-life.com/category/voices]

Brian Manzullo, Editor

in

Chief | Will Axford, Voices Editor | Heidi Fenton, Managing Editor | Eric Dresden, University Editor | Jackie Smith, Metro Editor

EDITORIAL | University officials hide by denying FOIA requests, keeping quiet

A

Under wraps

fog of uncertainty surrounds the budget reduction suggestions sent to Interim University President Kathy Wilbur earlier this month. Central Michigan Life filed 14 Freedom of Information Acts last week to several CMU budget centers, asking for the suggestions each submitted to Wilbur.

All were denied in one e-mail. CMU cited Section 13(1)(m) of the FOIA: “Communications and notes within a public body ... of an advisory nature to the extent they cover other than purely factual materials and are preliminary to a final agency determination of policy or action.” Why hide behind administrative politics? Why not open the discussion of what should be cut to

students, faculty and staff? General counsel and Freedom of Information officer Manuel Rupe, in a letter to Central Michigan Life concerning the FOIA requests, said, “Disclosing records of those communications would prevent university officials and employees from meaningfully engaging in challenging and deliberate discussions on a complex issue.” How so? Western Michigan Uni-

versity sent an e-mail to students and faculty with some of its ideas, encouraging responses. WMU even composed a question-and-answer bulletin to let the public know about its intentions. So what’s stopping CMU from doing the same thing and being up-front rather than being secretive? The administrators at this university seem as if they have forgotten they serve the students. It may come as a surprise to those in charge, but CMU is still a public institution. Students have a right to know what is being cut — they do, after all, fund roughly 66 percent of the university’s operating budget. Show the suggestions to the students. They’re doing their part by paying the administration’s salaries. They have a right to know. Let students have a say in what should stay and what should go, especially when it pertains to their education. At least hear them out. Don’t

cower behind a shroud of secrecy and reveal a plan of action without warning. At first glance, it’s understandable that university officials would be concerned about informing the community of items slated for cut before the action is actually taken. The concept of “being in limbo” is never an easy one. But revealing the information is ultimately for the common good. Any issue of this enormity deserves, at the very least, feedback from everyone involved. These are economic times the university hasn’t seen in quite awhile. As such, officials need to rethink their strategies. Conducting major decisions in secrecy — much like the Board of Trustees did with the medical school and President-designate George Ross announcements — arouses instant suspicion and destroys trust.

CHRIS TAMLYN [CENTRAL SQUARE]

Michael L. Hoffman Columnist

Protesting circa 2010

Every generation has its tool for protest. Our generation has embraced sites such as Facebook, Twitter, MySpace and now Google Buzz as our primary conduit for sharing information, like no other technology. It was Twitter — and blogs — that inspired people to share their feelings about important issues and launch viral protests. Over the past few years, we have seen time and time again the power social media can give people. Last summer, we saw protests erupt in Iran after President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad won an election that was perceived as fraudulent. The protests were welldocumented by Iranian citizens, which resulted in much of the rest of the social media community to rally behind them and voice their support. Saturday afternoon, there was a very intense protest against Southwest Airlines for kicking filmmaker Kevin Smith off a flight for being too heavy. After Smith was removed from the plane, he tweeted, “Dear @SouthwestAir — I know I’m fat, but was Captain Leysath really justified in throwing me off a flight for which I was already seated?” This resulted in many of his fans sending Southwest Airlines less than kind tweets regarding the situation. The airline responded quickly, apologizing to Smith in a public blog and giving him $100 in flight vouchers. This is the power of social media. It puts a lot of power in the hands of anyone and everyone on the Internet, if they know how to use it. For example, let’s say there is an issue on campus, such as the rise in salary for incoming President George Ross’ salary while the university has asked each departments to make budget cuts of 3, 6 or 9 percent. Take it to the Web. Tweet it, Facebook it, Buzz it. If you can get the word out enough, the university will notice.

[Our reader’s voice]

Comments from cm-life.com on Falls’ role models column

ment. The artists are not to blame, just the ignorance of human beings. Jim O’Bryan says:

Lloyd Duke says:

I am not entirely sure what Lady Gaga has to do with this. “Bad Romance” does not promote a “thug” lifestyle. It’s just about wanting some and getting some, which for a 23-year-old, isn’t that abnormal. Also, how did you not mention Ke$ha’s “Tik Tok”? It is possibly the most offensive song on the radio right now, and it is the no 1 song and album in the nation. And it’s not even parental advisory. What does this say about America’s youth? Finally, there is nothing wrong with listening to rap music. Or any offensive music in general, for that matter. People should be smart enough to know that the image put on by artists is usually a facade and should not be emulated. I listen to Slayer, Wu-Tang Clan, Minor Threat and Mos Def, but I am not a nuclear weapon-wielding thug who hates the govern-

Face it, there are ignorant people of all races. I’m not too proud of the white community’s musical advancements either, but we all have to realize we live in an idiocracy and our lives are just entertainmentand advertisement-filled. Our (Western) culture portrays an image of defiling women and spending money. Then women buy into the image that they are objects by buying plastic surgery and cosmetics to look as “unhuman” as possible. Then men treat women like the objects they want to be. Men get off on being dominant, women apparently find it okay to dehumanize themselves to be accepted by men. There is hope though, because we all share the same traits. We become complacent consumers who read less and are less educated, and that is quite alright by us, as seen in our music, our movies, and in our entertainment filled lives.

Comments from cm-life.com on missing person after nine days lulz says:

“When Matt got to O’Kelly’s, he was being kind of loud and they didn’t let him in,” Fralick said. Translation: He was already drunk and acted like a jerk to the point that they wouldn’t let him in. Talking smack? Maybe messing with other people in line? Messing with the bouncer trying to act cute and funny? “Once Fralick and his friends arrived, Poole was worried about ruining their night and just ran off, Fralick said.” Translation: He was def. drunk. Good friends. Way to just let him run off alone. You didn’t bother to get him somewhere safe? He doesn’t even live up here. You couldn’t have called him a taxi? There’s no way I’m letting one of my boys just stumble off into the cold by himself. me says:

Not very good friends. I wouldn’t just let my friend run off upset in freezing weather.

CM You|What would you like to see discussed at the Board of Trustees meeting?

Central Michigan Life Editorial Brian Manzullo, Editor in Chief Heidi Fenton, Managing Editor Joe Borlik, Student Life Editor Jackie Smith, Metro Editor Eric Dresden, University Editor Andrew Stover, Sports Editor Ashley Miller, Photo Editor Will Axford, Voices Editor David Veselenak, Online Editor Chelsea Kleven, Lead Designer Advertising Lindsey Reed, Katie Sidell Advertising Managers Carly Schafer, Shawn Wright Multi-Media Marketing Coordinators

“I can’t think of anything off the top of my head.”

“Can’t think of anything that bothers me.”

Ashley Harshorne,

Jason Phillps,

Novi senior

Detroit sophomore

“I’m happy with what I have.” Gunja Malila,

Nepal graduate student

Professional staff Rox Ann Petoskey, Production Leader Kathy Simon, Assistant Director of Student Media Neil C. Hopp, Adviser to Central Michigan Life

“Lots of other schools have buses that travel to away games. We should have that.” Jeff McBrayer,

Muskegon sophomore

Nathan Kostegian/staff photographer Central Michigan Life is the independent voice of Central Michigan University and is edited and published by students of Central Michigan University every Monday, Wednesday and Friday during the fall and spring semesters, and every Wednesday during the summer. The online edition (www.cm-life.com) contains all of the material published in print. Central Michigan Life is is under the jurisdiction of the independent Student Media Board of Directors. Articles and opinions do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions

of CMU or its employees. Central Michigan Life is a member of the Michigan Press Association, the Michigan Collegiate Press Association, the Associated Collegiate Press and the College Newspaper Business & Advertising Managers Association. Central Michigan Life’s operations are totally funded from revenues through advertising sales. Editions are distributed free throughout the community and individuals are entitled

to one copy. Each copy has an implied value of 75 cents. Non-university subscriptions are $1 per mailed edition. Copies of photographs published in Central Michigan Life or its online edition (www.cm-life.com) are available for purchase at http://reprints.cm-life.com Central Michigan Life’s editorial and business offices are located at 436 Moore Hall, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859, telephone 774-3493.

Brian Manzullo Editor in Chief

Playing it straight University should be honest with students Transparent — an adjective, with origins dating back to 1375, that describes something as “easily seen through, recognized, or detected.” Or, in the case of an organization and its activities, “open to public scrutiny.” The latter definition of this word has virtually packed its bags and left the Central Michigan University playbook. Last week, CM Life submitted 14 Freedom of Information Act requests for the 3, 6 and 9 percent budget reduction recommendations for various CMU offices, colleges and units. These recommendations were sent to interim University President Kathy Wilbur for her consideration. All of them were rejected in one e-mail over the weekend. The university claimed these records were exempt under Section 13(1)(m) of the FOIA, as “communications and notes within a public body ... of an advisory nature to the extent they cover other than purely factual materials and are preliminary to a final agency determination of policy or action.” CMU also gave the same language it provided last week in rejecting our FOIA request for the budget reduction suggestions sent to the Senior Staff Budget Advisory Group over the last few months: “Disclosing records of those communications would prevent University officials and employees from meaningfully engaging in challenging and deliberate discussions on a complex issue.” It is as if, somehow, the idea of putting information in the open for students, faculty and staff to see was thrown out a fourth-story window. The CMU budget is the big story of the semester, and these cuts for the coming fiscal year will affect every person affiliated with this university, especially the little guys (the students). Some parts of the discussion are touchy and understandably kept quiet (namely possible layoffs). But it is irresponsible for CMU to attempt to completely close the door on these talks and let the higher-ups decide what isn’t important enough. These are the same sort of people that, early last fall, paid $500,000 for practice turf in the Indoor Athletic Complex (a decision that affects only hundreds) and cut $80,000 by shaving computer lab hours in Grawn and Woldt halls (a decision that affects thousands). Other landmark Trustees decisions — namely the approval of the $24-million medical school and President-designate George Ross — were left off meeting agendas and announced as if they were pulled from a magician’s hat. The gap between administration and students needs to close and the lack of transparency needs to stop. CMU should spend more time listening to the people it will greatly affect in the coming months: the students. The ones that fund roughly two-thirds of the university’s operating budget. Giving Internet users a chance to submit budget suggestions late last semester wasn’t enough. Tell the public what eliminations are being considered and give people a chance to sway your decision. Even the little guys.

[letters to the editor] E-mail | voices@cm-life.com Mail | 436 Moore Hall Mount Pleasant, MI 48859 Fax | 989.774.7805 Central Michigan Life welcomes letters to the editor and commentary submissions. Only correspondence that includes a signature (e-mail excluded), address and phone number will be considered. Do not include attached documents via email. Letters should be no longer than 300 words and commentary should not exceed 500 words. All submissions are subject to editing and may be published in print or on www.cm-life.com in the order they are received.

www.cm-life.com

Central Michigan Life || Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2010 || 5A

[News]

diversity| continued from 3a

members of those groups have negative experiences more than white people,� Senter said. “The second thing is that faculty and staff have had many of the same negative experiences that the students were having.� New way to interact More than 35 percent of the minorities surveyed said they have heard a derogatory comment made in Mount Pleasant. Approximately 23 percent of white

participants said the same thing. More than 7 percent of participants also said they have had a negative experience because of their own race, compared to just more than 1 percent of white participants. Senter said the program next fall will help students learn about these issues. “It will be an opportunity to help interaction between different groups of people,� she said. A 500-level course is being offered this semester for graduate students who want to facilitate the fall program. Klymyshyn said the course is designed to

have students talk in small groups. “In small groups, students can really interact with one another,� she said. But for issues and programs to get attention, Senter said help needs to come from the top at Central Michigan University. “There needs to be leadership from the senior levels at CMU,� she said. “There needs to be an ongoing support for everybody, and everybody is over 20,000 people.� metro@cm-life.com

libby march/staff photographer

Caledonia sophomore Stephen Durkee prays with Father Will Prospero during daily mass Monday night at St. Mary’s University Parish on South Washington Street. “(For Lent), I am waking up right when my alarm goes off,� said Durkee, who also is giving up sweets during the 40 days until Easter.

' .$)" + -/4

Christians begin 40-day Lent By Connor Sheridan Senior Reporter

in which Jesus spent 40 days in the desert enduring temptation.

For Chris Morabito, Lent is more than a religious tradition. It is a time for testing his will. Today, Ash Wednesday, marks the first of 40 days and 40 nights the Midland junior plans to avoid sweets such as candy. It will be a challenge, but Morabito has honored similar commitments before. Three years ago, he gave up pasta for Lent. “I’m Italian, and I did no pasta for 40 days,� said Morabito, a Catholic. But when the struggle is over and the sacrifice fulfilled, Morabito plans to celebrate his victory. “I went to Olive Garden after Easter and got a big bowl of fettuccine alfredo,� he said. “What doctors call a heart attack in a bowl.� The Christian tradition of Lent is a 40-day session of fasting and prayer leading to Easter. The observance is based on a Bible story

A time of sacrifice Jeremy Priest, a pastoral associate at St. Mary’s Catholic Parish, 1405 S. Washington St., said all Fridays in Lent are days of abstinence. This abstinence refers to refraining from eating meat, though fish is commonly accepted, he said. “On Fridays in Lent, you’re like, ‘Wow, that hamburger looks good,’� Priest said. He said the sacrifices remind observers of the important things in their lives. For Morabito’s roommate, Steve Durkee, Lent is a time to grow stronger in faith. “I gave (soda) up for Lent, and I didn’t have it for two years,� Durkee said. This year Durkee, a Caledonia sophomore, plans to break free from a temptation many students battle: the snooze button.

obituary

Richard Kirchner ‘wanted to see others succeed’ By Seth Nietering Staff Reporter

Barbara Kirchner will never forget the close connection she and her husband, Richard, had with Central Michigan University. Though Richard died Dec. 2 at 79 years old, she said the memories of his career as an athletics coach will always be close to her heart. Richard was born in Schenectady, N.Y., on Feb. 17, 1930. He worked at CMU for 36 years as the founding chairman of the Recreation and Park Administration Department before retiring in 1992. He was recruited at CMU as the head wrestling coach, a position he held for eight years. Richard finished his coaching career with a winning record of .721 and was inducted into the Central Michigan University Athletic Hall of Fame. Barbara, whom he married on Feb. 2,

1951, said he developed a strong relationship with his players during his coaching career. “He had a bond with his team. He was very close with his players,� she said. Barbara said Richard was a very kind and dedicated person. She said he was always thinking about the well being of others. “Richard was a great family man,� she said. “He had great concern for other people. He wanted to see others succeed.� Kirchner was deeply respected by his players. Barbara Kirchner counted numerous times when he was approached by past players and thanked for his dedication. “Past players would see him and say to him, ‘If it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t be where I am today’,� Barbara said. “It always meant a lot to him when it happened.�

While it may be tough, it will give him extra time in the morning for worship. Durkee said he chose a particularly annoying ringtone to use as his alarm. “That would be so I can get some morning prayers in,� he said. While Lent is a time of sacrifice, it is not meant to seriously impede the lives of observers. Priest used the founder of the Jesuits St. Ignatius as an example. He fasted to the point of injury and, later, ordered all his followers to clear fasts with their spiritual advisers beforehand. That is why Morabito is hesitant of letting Facebook go. “Due to how much I use it for legitimate communication, that would be impossible,� he said. studentlife@cm-life.com

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436 Moore Hall • CMU • Mt Pleasant

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sports Central Michigan Life

6A

Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2010

gymnastics

life away from football

Difficulty added to bars routine

Team plays for top spot in MAC West

Reighard wants athletes to use at least two releases in routines

With a blitz down the mat, freshman gymnast Kari Dieffenderfer hits the springboard and propels her body horizontal past the lower bar, clearing it to grab hold of the upper bar. Her uneven bars routine begins with several passes around the bar; she pauses briefly in a pencil-thin position, controlling her momentum and freezing in mid-air. With a twist of her wrists, she reverses her position on the bar and begins to rotate in the opposite direction. She is not phased by the rotation and spinning involved in the uneven bars event. “It’s trusting your hands, and knowing you’re going to be there,” Dieffenderfer said, “You’re used to swinging around, and I have never gotten dizzy.” The uneven bars event consists of two individual bars of the same thickness positioned four feet apart. The lower bar on the apparatus sits 5 feet, 3 inches

Ball State hosts CMU to break tie for first place in division

cm-life.com

By Nick Conklin Staff Reporter

See the full version of this story on the Web site. off the ground, while the upper bar sits 8 feet from the mat. Scoring in the event deals with similar requirements in other events; however, an emphasis on releases and dismounts constitute a majority of the points. Coach Jerry Reighard said the importance of releases correlates to highscored routines. “The more you let go, the riskier routine,” he said. The varying degrees of difficulty in a bars routine deal with a skill rating system that goes from ‘A’ to ‘E.’ With ‘A’ being the basic level. Reighard tries to ensure his gymnasts complete D and E quality routines, which require two or more releases during a run. “The goal for the entire bar lineup is to have an E dismount, and to have two D releases,” he said. sports@cm-life.com

By Tim Ottusch Senior Reporter

file photo by jake may

CMU football coach Dan Enos, 41, holds a CMU helmet up in front of the flying C logo on Jan. 12 in the press conference room of the Indoor Athletic Complex after his hiring.

Enos:

off the sidelines New coach is a dog person, Bennigan’s fan

Sports Editor Andrew Stover and Senior Reporter Daniel Monson had a chance to see the other side of new CMU football coach Dan Enos last Thursday. Here’s the end of their conversation about what Enos — a very down-to-earth 41year old — does when he is not coaching. Andrew Stover: What do you do around here in your minimal free time?

file photo by jake may

Junior Cheryl Conlin scored a 9.4 on the uneven bars Saturday against Kent State at Rose Arena.

enos | continued from 1A

Setting a tone Enos said he feels welcomed by the community and compelled to continue the program’s success. “Everywhere I go, it’s been real positive, real supportive, but I get a feeling like, ‘Hey, we feel very passionate about this coach, so you better keep it going,’” he said. “Which is good — it’s better than nobody even knowing who you are.” As a first-time head coach, Enos said he enjoys being able to set the tone of a program simply through his attitude. This includes discipline, something he stresses more than nearly

anything else. “We’ve made it quite clear around here that you’re going to live right off the field. You’re going to be a good person and, academically, you’re going to do everything you’re supposed to do,” he said. “Otherwise, you’re going to have problems.” Despite all the activity in his first four weeks, his second month is not likely to bring much relief — he has spring practice to prepare for, beginning March 18. “I think I step into it not knowing everything that’s going to be behind the door,” Enos said. “But I do feel like I’m very prepared and at least organized to get us from one phase to the next phase.” sports@cm-life.com

men’s basketball

Dan Enos: I’ve been to Bennigan’s a lot, because we’ve been interviewing coaches, and I stayed at the Comfort Inn for about two weeks. I get the chicken platter at Bennigan’s, I highly recommend it to everybody. It’s very good. I’ve been to Mountain Town. I got my hair cut ... We’ve been eating at the dorms ... The whole staff goes over to the dorms, we were getting some weird looks from some of the students over there. They thought it was like ‘Old Folks Night,’ or something at Celani. That’s like the nicest dorm I’ve ever been in by the way ... These students don’t know how good they have it over there. Stover: You grew up in Dearborn, right outside of Detroit. What was your favorite sports team, now, growing up? You said you were a Wings fan. Enos: I like all of them, but my brother (Gary) and I, huge Red Wings fans. My wife (says) constantly, “Are you talking about the Red Wings again?”

Dan Enos file w w w w w w w w w w

Age: 41 Wife: Jane Hometown: Dearborn, MI High School: Dearborn Edsel Ford Pets: Fish; soon to own a dog Vehicle: Tahoe Siblings: Two older brothers (Gary — 43, Loren — 44) Children: Daughter — Idalia (third grade); Son — Alex (not in school yet). Favorite local eatery: Bennigan’s Favorite music: ‘80s

He texted me this morning, “Wings tonight.” So we always know when they’re on. We watch them, so (we’re) avid there. But I grew up going to Tiger games and liked the Lions. I coached Drew Stanton, so when they drafted him, (I) even took more interest in those guys. I think Detroit’s a great sports town, it was a great place to grow up. Great place to live, and we got a couple more Dearborn guys on the team (recruits Kevin King, Nores Fradi). Stover: There’s a generation gap, so, music. What kind of music do you listen to? Enos: You know what? I listen to all kinds. I like a lot of things. I don’t know a lot of the new artists, their names. I know, like, Nickelback. I don’t even know if they’re new, but I like them. I’m a huge ... ‘80s music (fan), I

like Van Halen and Guns N’ Roses, AC/DC, Run DMC, LL Cool J, ‘80s rap, stuff like that. But — Metallica — I like a lot of things. Country music, I’m kind of okay on. Monson: Where’s your favorite vacation spot? Enos: I like going to Orlando, going to Disney. We’ve been (there), like, four times with the kids. So we’ve been fortunate enough, we played in the Capitol One Bowl in Orlando, and we played in the Champs Bowl in Orlando. So, two years in a row, we went there for the bowl trip. Stover: Any pets? Enos: No, but we’re getting a dog. Stover: Would you say you’re a dog person then? Enos: Absolutely ... My daughter and I have been talking to my wife about getting a dog and she caved. So when we move here, we’re getting a dog. Actually, it’s funny, because when Dave Heeke called me and offered me the job, he called me on the phone, it was that night. And I answered the phone, I was like, “Hello?” He said, “Dan, this is Dave. What are you doing?” I said, “Actually we just had a family meeting about getting a dog.” And I was just thinking to myself, “Why did I just tell him that?”

The CMU men’s basketball team should have a familiar feeling when it plays Ball State at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Worthen Arena in Muncie, Ind. The Chippewas and Cardinals will battle for the Mid-American Conference West Division lead, much like the scenario from last year, where CMU came into the matchup 5-7 in the MAC and Ball State 6-6. “It’s going to be a huge game,” said coach Ernie Zeigler. “I think each one of these divisional games are going to be huge for all of us ... everyone that’s fighting to try to put themselves in a position to win the division.” Ball State won the game 53-44 last year, and the two teams tied at the end of the season with Western Michigan for a share of the MAC West title. “Hopefully, for us, we can have a different outcome for ourselves (this year),” Zeigler said. Robbie Harman The teams — each with a 7-5 conference record — are tied for the final bye spot in the MAC Tournament, along with Buffalo. CMU won the first matchup of the season, defeating BSU 53-38 on Jan. 13 at Rose Arena. The Chippewas held the Cardinals to 24.4 percent shooting and allowed the lowest point total CMU has given up in conference play since joining the MAC in 1972. Seniors Jordan Bitzer, Robbie Harman and Chris Kellermann all finished with double-digit points, scoring 12, 12 and 14 respectively. However, the Cardinals have improved since that game. They are 5-2 in their last seven and have gained two games on CMU during that stretch. “We got them here at home,” Harman said. “We played pretty well that game ... We just need to play our game and not play to them.” BSU has been led by a balanced attack in conference play. It has four players averaging 9.7 points per game or more. “It’s going to be huge test for us to go in there and try to impose our will and do the things that we want to do defensively,” Zeigler said.

Enos: Am I off the Budweiser hot seat?

Scorers Leading BSU in scoring through conference play is sophomore guard Randy Davis (5-foot-11), who averages 11.2 points per game. Sophomore forward Jarrod Jones (6-foot-9) averages 10.6 and freshman guard Jauwan Scaife (6-foot-2) and senior forward Terrence Watson (6-foot-5) average 9.7 each. Ball State (13-11, 7-5 MAC) beat Northern Illinois 71-66 Saturday in DeKalb, Ill., avenging a loss from earlier in the season. CMU (12-12, 7-5 MAC) comes off a 63-46 win against Toledo Sunday at Rose Arena — CMU held UT to 35.7 percent shooting — that snapped a three-game losing streak.

sports@cm-life.com

sports@cm-life.comf

U.S. hockey team filled with youth and bad coaching I

Lots of upside, but Wilson not the right guy t has been 30 years since the United States hockey team shocked the world in the 1980 Olympic Games in Lake Placid, N.Y. The disparity in talent between the college-aged U.S. team and the veteran savvy Soviets, along with the Cold War implications of the time assure that feat will never be beaten, replicated or challenged in the sports world. It’s a biased opinion, sure, but one that holds weight in many circles. But now, 30 years later and after the Olympic games began to allow professional players to partake in the tournament, the U.S. finds itself in a familiar role: filled with youth,

Andrew Stover Sports Editor underdogs by a wide margin. With names such as Alexander Ovechkin, Evgeni Malkin, Pavel Datsyuk and Ilya Kovalchuk, the Russians bring the star power. Their top six forwards are better than anyone’s in the tournament, hands down. The Canadians, however, are one of the greatest teams ever put together top to bottom. Their depth on the blue line exceeds any team, and they have a star-studded forward group led by Sidney Crosby, Ryan Getzlaf, Mike Richards, Jarome Iginla, Eric Stall and

on and on and on. Sweden is the defending Olympic gold medalist, and it will bring its core back. But don’t sleep on the Americans. The U.S. has 13 players 25 years old or younger. NHL goal scorers Zach Parise and Patrick Kane — yes, the same guy who punched a taxi driver after shorting him 20 cents — along with Phil Kessel and Bobby Ryan lead the offense. Erik Johnson, Jack Johnson and Ryan Suter stabilize the blue line. But know this: if the Americans have any shot at medaling, it’s because 29-year-old goalie Ryan Miller steals a game or two, maybe three. One of the best in the tournament, Miller has to carry his young team if it plans to upset the heavyweights. Nice pick, Burke That’s not to say things couldn’t have been easier for the fresh-faced red,

white and blue wearers. Brian Burke, general manager of Team U.S.A. and a heck of a general manager in the NHL, may be too loyal for his own good. After hiring Ron Wilson to coach his Toronto Maple Leafs in June 2008, he gave him the honor of coaching the Americans in Vancouver. Let’s review Wilson’s NHL numbers: 1,173 regular season games, 552 regular season wins, but no Stanley Cups. In fact, he vastly underachieved when coaching San Jose between 2002-08. A team loaded with talent — Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleu and Evgeni Nabakov to name some of it — only made it out of the playoffs’ second round once. In 15 seasons of coaching, Wilson has only made the finals once, being swept by Detroit in 1997-98. If he wasn’t Burke’s Olympic coach, he might not have lasted this long in Toronto, though that may be a tad unfair to say considering the rebuilding

Andrew Stover, Sports Editor | sports@cm-life.com | 989.774.3169

process going on in southern Ontario. But maybe a more logical choice — other than the perennial choke artist ­­— would be down the bench, where New York Ranger’s John Tortorella stands as the team’s assistant coach. Sure, he has only won 267 NHL games, but he has won a cup. And he did it with an overachieving team. That’s a concept Wilson may have never heard of. But the pick was made, and it’s irrelevant now. The U.S. has already won its first game. Ryan, David Backes and veteran Ryan Malone scored in a 3-1 win against the Swiss on Tuesday. But with Wilson behind the bench, a cloud of doubt surrounds any magical vibe around the U.S. Can it make a run? Sure. But will it? Probably not. Maybe Burke will make the right choice if he’s given the opportunity in another four years. sports@cm-life.com

STUDENT MUSICIAN | Joe Hertler describes his music as ‘folky-soul,’ 3B

B

campus vibe Central Michigan Life

Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2010

[cm-life.com/category/vibe]

IS THE BOW TIE THE STANDARD FOR FORMAL FASHION?

Hilary Farrell Staff Reporter

Looking forward to providing helpful advice H

i! My name is Hilary, and I am a 23-yearold super senior. I’m in charge of Central Michigan Life’s new advice column in the Campus VIBE section. I want to hear from you. As a fifth-year student, I have seen everything from exorbitant apartment party fines to the ethics of forging a doctor’s note. I have gone through five separate majors throughout my college career, and consider myself an unofficial expert in academic advice. File photo by jake may/staff photographer For better or worse, I have Interim Medical School Dean Cam Enarson smiles in the crowd of observers during the Dec. 3 Board of Trustees meeting in the President’s Conference Room. Enarson is known for wearing a signature bow tie every day; he experienced just about all owns about 60, and usually receives a new one for every birthday and Christmas from his wife. “I started wearing them 20 years ago, and haven’t stopped,� he said. “You get used to it. ... There aren’t many bow tie stores one can in my love life, givaround. Usually, it’s like a deal you make in the back room. You have to ask for them specifically, and they’ll walk you back to find bow ties. I guess it’s become a lifestyle.� ing me a great background for advising on romantic matters. If I have not personally gone through what you are going through, I can promise one of my friends has. I can even relate to fam

ily dilemmas, as my family resembles characters in “My By Sarah Schuch | Senior Reporter Big Fat Greek Wedding.� There is a lot of love in my family, and also a lot of crazy people. hey are fashion statements that grab attenMuch of my wisdom I tions and start conversations. learned the hard way, up to But they are not anything like plugs, large and including all the places in Mount Pleasant you can hoop earrings or blue-colored hair. They go around leave your car overnight. the neck and come in many different colors, patterns I figured this out after more than $400 in towing and even sizes. fees and enough parking There are a few people that are still hanging on tickets to pay a City Comto their bow ties for everyday wear. Cam Enarson, missioner’s salary. I am very friendly and Central Michigan University’s interim medical school very open. In my spare time, dean, owns 60 bow ties. I like curling up with a good book. Regardless of the topic of “I think it’s unique. Not tury. During the 30 Years War, your queries, I would love to as many people wear them Croatian mercenaries went help out. as normal ties,� he said. “I to show their support to King So, what next? thought this would be an in- Louis in France, and they You can contact me in two wrapped a loosely fitting tie teresting thing to do.� different ways, depending Enarson has been collecting around their necks to keep on your comfort level. bow ties and wearing them for their shirts closed, according My e-mail address is to ezinearticles.com. about 25 years. farre1hl@cmich.edu. The bow tie is a fashion in If you wish to submit questhe same way cargo pants All tied up tions anonymously, you can Enarson’s bow tie collection are a fashion, said Maureen send them to me through my MacGillivray, professor of hu- consists of striped ties, solidnew Formspring account. color ties and even one with man environmental studies. Formspring.me is a Web People wear bow ties to get “dad� printed all over it. site where you can send and “An orange one, that’s probattention and to be rememreceive questions without ably the wildest one I own,� bered, she said. posting your real name. My “If there were someone who he said. “I try to have a differaccount is formspring.me/ could catch the attention of ent one every day.� -+ $,$,C )2! 2)- ! + 0 13# ## >4>68836/"7# HilaryFarrell. Lewandos might only wear the public that wears a bow C E $,C+- +&$,C ! ($,+ 2)- ! + ( You do not have to provide or three times 13# a ## tie, it’s possible for that 9>4#' bow a bow tie two ?>4>@ 45863"#> your real name, but I do ask tie to become fashionable week, but his collection had a " !; ($,C ))D (+ A+ 2)- ! + you create a name (of sorts) again,� MacGillivray said. ; "#F 8/F “We wide variety of designs. They ?>4>@ 45863"#> for yourself so I can refer to to a club can probably agree ! /# /##4 that it will range from striped,

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2B || Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2010 || Central Michigan Life

bow ties |

NEW STUFF

continued from 1B

DVDs: 1. “Law Abiding Citizen� 2. “Coco Before Chanel� 3. “Black Dynamite�

CDs: 1. “American VI: Ain’t No Grave� Johnny Cash 2. “Have One on Me� Joanna Newsom 3. “This Addiction� Alkaline Trio

Video games: 1. “Bioshock 2� (Xbox 360) 2. “Mass Effect 2� (Xbox 360) 3. “Dante’s Inferno Divine Edition� (Playstation 3)

1. Valentine’s Day $66.9 million 2. Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief $38.8 million 3. The Wolfman $36.5 million 4. Avatar $30 million 5. Dear John $18.8 million

Singles: 1. “TiK ToK� Ke$ha 2. “Imma Be� The Black Eyed Peas 3. “Need You Now� Lady Antebellum 4. “BedRock� Young Money Featuring Lloyd 5. “Bad Romance� Lady Gaga

Albums: 1. “Need You Now� Lady Antebellum 2. “Rebirth� Lil’ Wayne 3. “Who I Am� Nick Jonas & The Administration 4. “The Fame� Lady Gaga 5. “2010 Grammy Nominees� Various Artists

Tweets of the week

Paige calamari/staff photographer

CMU chemistry professor Glenn Lewandos began wearing bow ties in the 1960s. Lewandos said formal attire, such as bow ties, were part of the culture where he was raised in Texas.

found a great ease in wearing them since they do not hang down and get in the way, so it is worth it. The bow tie might have been a more popular fash-

ion in the 1960s, but MacGillivray said it is possible for a designer to bring them back. studentlife@cm-life.com

Follow @CMLIFE on Twitter.com

Scorsese is up to tricks on ‘Shutter Island’ fore, so I don’t think any of those allusions were surprising.� Neither was Scorsese’s choice of star: Leonardo DiCaprio, who at the age of 35 has acquired both the physical presence and actorly heft of the great leading men — and who is starring in his fourth Scorsese picture. A collaboration that began with “Gangs of New York� (2002), included the Howard Hughes biopic “The Aviator� (2004) and then seemed to hit a crescendo via the much-honored, multiple Oscar-winning “The Departed� (2006) has taken a turn into the dark, dank corridors of magicalrealism, Val Lewton-esque lyri-

NEW YORK — Nobody involved was surprised that Martin Scorsese’s latest — the gothically inflected psychological thriller “Shutter Island� — is chockablock with references to everything from the Bronte sisters to “I Walked With a Zombie.� “Marty has loved film all his life,� said Hollywood vet Mike Medavoy, one of the film’s producers. “He’s out there promoting film preservation, he knows everything about movies. I’ve known Marty since the ‘70s and worked with him a few times be-

MOVIES:

“They would say, ‘So you’re wearing a bow tie,’ and start up a conversation I wouldn’t normally have,� he said. “I have a lot of interesting conversations that way.� Lewandos said he sees women commenting more than men, even though his wife sees it as a normal part of his wardrobe. Some people might even comment when he does not wear a bow tie, he said. “Women are just more observant to accessories,� Lewandos said. “Older women care about their appearance... so they notice my accessories.� It is a bit more challenging for Enarson and Lewandos to buy bow ties. But Enarson said he has

By John Anderson Newsday (MCT)

TOP FIVES

cm-life.com/category/vibe

[VIBE]

BEAT WRITER PICKS Video games:

Music:

Heavy Rain (PS3)

Die Antwoord

The current Internet music phenomenon, Die Antwoord, is a trio of derelict musicians from South Africa that create far-out, futuristic dance music that is not only hilarious, but also extremely intriguing. The group’s three members, MC Ninja, Yo-Landi Vi$$er and DJ Hi-Tek, have a distinctive HarmonyKorine-derelict-meetsBrooklyn-hipster image that is outrageous and interesting. The curious are urged to YouTube the group’s video “Zef Side,� which serves as a brilliant introduction to the group. Fans of M.I.A., Ali G and anything “next level� do not want to miss these guys. - Ben Weissenborn

Not many games ask its player a question, let alone one like “How far are you willing to go to save someone you love?� In this interactive drama from developer Quantic Dream, players take on the role of four characters whose stories are linked by a serial murderer called “The Origami Killer.� Players are invited to think deeply about their actions as they deliberate on which son to play with first or whether to try to stop an armed robber. These choices (or indecisions) can even result in the death of one character while the others’ stories continue. - Connor Sheridan

cism and elusive Hitchcockian psychology. “I was very intrigued by the screenplay,� DiCaprio said on a recent afternoon in Manhattan. “It was very much a throwback to some of the great detective films of the past, whether it was ‘Vertigo’ or ‘Out of the Past,’ which Marty screened for us. At first glance, it was a thriller, a genre piece with twists and turns.� But what he discovered, along with his director and his costars was that the filmmaking took them to “places we couldn’t have foreseen. It got darker and darker and more emotionally intense than we ever expected.�

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cm-life.com/category/vibe

‘The Wolfman’ lacks entertaining werewolf action, interesting dialogue

jeff smith/staff photographer

Student a ‘one-man band’ Joe Hertler wants to share his music with the world. This hope started when he first picked up a violin in elementary school. Then, in high school, he added bass and piano to his repertoire. It was not until the Troy junior attended Central Michigan University that Hertler played the guitar. “I started seriously writing music during my second semester of my freshman year in college,” he said. “I just bought a guitar and it started from there.” Hertler said he plays “folkysoul” music. John Krohn, who mastered Hertler’s first full-length album “The Hard Times LP,” might agree. “I think it’s the soul part of it that sets Joe apart from a lot of other dudes that are slinging acoustic guitars around,” said the Deep Deep Pink studio owner. “The Hard Times LP” was completed at the end of last month. Hertler is planning to have a CD release party in the near future. Over the past few weeks, Hertler has become a frequent

guest on Modern Rock 91.5’s Indie Queens show. Macomb junior Jamie Favazza hosts the show. She calls Hertler a one-man band. “When you see him live, he obviously can do more than he can in our studio,” Favazza said. “But even with just his guitar, harmonica and vocals, he seems to just captivate the listeners.” Into the spotlight Hertler first started playing shows in Mount Pleasant at Kaya Coffee and Tea Co., 1029 S. University Ave. It was there he started to gain a small following of people, including Moore Media Records President James Slider. “I met Joe at a coffee house concert, probably a year and a half to two years ago. I really liked his set,” the Williamston junior said. “So I went up to him and talked with him about his music and we became friends pretty quickly.” It was this friendship that opened the door for Hertler to be involved in MMR and he is now a candidate for one of MMR’s next releases. Hertler said he is inspired by the people around him. “I have met just a ton of tal-

ented kids,” Hertler said. “When I listen to my friends’ music, and it’s really good, it gets me into a song writing music mood.” Since starting at Kaya, Hertler said he has played more than 100 shows — playing with several bands such as Frontier Ruckus, Jeff Cramer and Husband and Wife. Pleasant art Hertler’s desire to share his art with the world does not end with music. He said he is in the final steps to create a registered student organization called The Pleasant Town Art Collective with a goal to bring more art to Mount Pleasant. “There are definitely talented people up here,” he said. “But I just want to bring that talent out, but not just music, but photography, fine art, everything. And really bring about a cohesive force and there is nothing out there like that.” The Pleasant Town Art Collective is scheduled to be approved next week and Hertler hopes soon after it will begin hosting events. “I’d like to bring a little more culture to this town,” he said. studentlife@cm-life.com

Joe Hertler’s LP simple, but good By Ben Weissenborn Staff Review

“The Hard Times LP,” the debut album release from singer-songwriter Joe Hertler, is a quiet and reflective collection of songs that, though often lacking in originality and variation, stands as a fairly solid debut from a local musician. Perhaps the best thing Hertler, a Troy junior, has going for him is his ambition: the album, recorded in a number of places over the past 8 months, including Mount Pleasant, features a number of instruments, all of which were performed and recorded solely by Hertler. As far as Hertler’s music goes, it’s not unlike anything you’ve heard before: simple arrangements, mostly acoustic instrumentation, a familiar voice and songs about places, love, loss and friends. At the center of Hertler’s songs is his voice; gentle, familiar and, at times, aching. It often brings to mind the voice of popular singersongwriter Damien Rice. Though Hertler may not have the range Rice has, his voice still has a very calming, familiar quality to it that is quite pleasant to listen to. One of the album’s strongest tracks is “He Was Crushed,” a simple, slightly sad and rather beautiful song that benefits greatly from the album’s very basic production. Softly picked acoustic guitar, Hertler’s voice and some perfectly placed harmonica swells prove to be rather affecting, though they may not seem like much on paper. Perhaps the one thing “The Hard Times LP” could benefit most from is variation. Many of the songs sound a lot alike, which makes many of the songs rather forgettable, especially on first listen. A change in instrumentation could make a world of difference for a number of Hertler’s songs, some of which beg for a fullband backing. His simple

“The Wolfman”

By Ryan Taljonick Staff Review

Troy junior Joe Hertler performs a song Monday in his bedroom studio. Hertler has been singing and playing music since elementary school, where he picked up violin. He now plays more than a dozen instruments. Hertler is working on creating a registered student organization called The Pleasant Town Art Collective, which he hopes will promote local art and culture.

By Mike Hoffman Staff Reporter

Central Michigan Life || Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2010 || 3B

[VIBE]

arrangements work well for some songs, but make others sound overly bare and unfinished. Regardless, for the first release from a local musician, “The Hard Times LP” is a great accomplishment for someone of Hertler’s age. Considering Hertler is offering the album for a free download on his Web site, joehertler.com, curious readers have virtually nothing to lose by at least check-

“The Hard Times” LP w Artist: Troy junior Joe Hertler w Genre: Folk/soul

HHHHH ing out his music. Fans of Damien Rice, Jack Johnson and Ben Harper are sure to find plenty to love here. studentlife@cm-life.com

Director Joe Johnston’s werewolf film, “The Wolfman,” a remake of the 1941 film of the same name, will provide its audience with a large dose of gore and a dark, gritty setting. But that’s about it. Some horror fans and werewolf aficionados may try to tell you the movie is the greatest source of entertainment since the monkey-shaped baby leashes often used to restrain children in public, but don’t be fooled. Slow pacing and boring dialogue ultimately detract from the film’s potential. Set in the late 1880s, Shakespearean actor Lawrence Talbot (Benicio Del Toro) returns to his homeland, the Victorian hamlet of Blackmoor, after discovering his brother vanished. Upon his return, he meets with his estranged father (Anthony Hopkins) and is informed his brother’s mutilated body has been recovered. Everything feels gritty. The film’s lighting and camera effects blend well together, creating a bleak and ominous backdrop that really heightens the horror experience. The gore scenes are awesome and present inventive ways for werewolves to gnaw and claw people to death. Unfortunately, Johnston’s first R-rated film falls short of what it could have been. The two issues with the film are that it’s plagued with slow pacing and it does not contain enough werewolf carnage. Though the action sequences are brutally graphic, the plot-driven dialogue that connects those sequences is often drawn out and boring. The film promises its audience gory scenes but you will feel cheated when you realize there is only 15 to 20 minutes worth of brutal werewolf action. The film’s entertainment value becomes too reliant on its predictable plot and most viewers won’t feel as though anything worthwhile is said during the long-winded chunks of dialogue that satu-

w w w

Genre: Horror Rated: R Starring: Benicio Del Toro, Emily Blunt, Anthony Hopkins

HHHHH rate the film. Plot twists are presented early on in the film, leaving no sense of mystery throughout the remainder of the movie. The characters lack any form of personality and the motivations for their actions are never really sensible. Not to mention the werewolf howl you hear throughout the movie sounds as though it was taken almost directly from Shakira’s song, “She Wolf.” As the remake of one of the most influential werewolf films in movie history, “The Wolfman” truly feels like a missed

opportunity at best. It does not offer many surprises and the narrative is extremely difficult to care about. But if you’re looking for some wolf-related entertainment, Shakira’s “She Wolf” music video may be the way to go (ah woooooo!). studentlife@cm-life.com

4B || Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2010 || Central Michigan Life

Comedy play ‘Couch’ premieres this week Actors prepare for play by developing Irish accents By Melissa Torok Staff Reporter

photos by matthew stephens/senior photographer

Saginaw senior Mike “Jammaster Flash” Myczkowiak performs Monday at The Cabin, 930 W. Broomfield St., during the talent portion of the “Mangeant.” The “Mangeant” was a fundraiser for Haiti sponsored by the Public Relations Student Society of America.

‘Mangeant’ raises $70.56 for charity By Brad Canze Staff Reporter

Mike Myczkowiak stood up Monday at The Cabin with a bold announcement — the swimsuit he wore was on loan from his grandfather. The Saginaw senior’s attire would have seemed out of place on most nights, and the announcement a bit off-color. But it was for the “Mangeant” held at 930 W. Broomfield St. Four men strutted their stuff and competed to raise money for the Central Michigan University Public Relations Student Society of America chapter and to the Haitian Relief Fund. “Basically, we bring in speakers and practitioners to talk to the students,” said Angela Hernandez, an Allen Park senior and member of the PRSSA, which coordinated the event. “To pay for the venues and speakers, we have to do fundraisers.” The pageant had three rounds, where men competed

Wixom senior Elvis Vushaj, right, celebrates after winning the “Mangeant” Monday night at The Cabin. Vushaj won the competition and received cheers from the crowd during the talent portion of the show for his ribbon dancing skills.

in formal wear, swimsuit and talent competitions. Formal wear was the first round. Competitors introduced themselves and demonstrated their favorite pick-up line on a female volunteer. The swimsuit competition was second, followed by a talent round. Myczkowiak performed

“What I Got” by Sublime on an acoustic guitar. Wixom senior Elvis Vushaj performed a charismatic and self-deprecating ribbon-dancing routine, which he said was inspired by the movie “Old School.” “I practiced about a day,” Vushaj said. “I figured, I don’t have any talents, so I may as

well make fun of myself the best I can.” Macomb Community College student Steve Kruk performed several minutes of stand-up comedy, and Clinton Township resident Matt Kriesgen drank a beer through a beer bong in about one second. “If you ever get a chance to bong a beer in a bar, take it,” said Kriesgen, who received special permission from Cabin management to perform the feat. After the talent portion, audience members tossed money into buckets designated for the competitor they wanted to win. Getting the lion’s share of the $70.56 collected was Elvis Vushaj, who was named the winner. “It was a good crowd, a good show,” Vushaj said. “It was just to have fun, and it was all for a good cause.” studentlife@cm-life.com

New ‘Zelda’ adventure innovative, fun By Connor Sheridan Staff Review

“The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks” succeeds and innovates in ways Nintendo might think are too risky to apply to the main line of “Zelda” games. For every old convention it keeps, it turns another around and finds new ways to simplify and reinvigorate the good old adventuring experience. The game takes place roughly 100 years after the events of 2003’s “Wind Waker” and 2007’s “Phantom Hourglass,” in a kingdom crisscrossed by ancient railways. Integrating a train as a travel mechanic, at first, seems like a strained attempt to introduce a more restricted form of “locomotion” into the series’ traditionally open worlds. But it works. Playing engineer is simultaneously a relaxing and involving experience which requires a mix of careful route planning, wise brake application and a quick hand at directing cannon fire. This is particularly so in the occasionally annoying yet rewarding transport missions which see the main character, Link, hauling loads of cargo and passengers around the impressively large world. The traveling segments are particularly thrilling in the way they showcase the title’s graphics. While the cartoony style seemed like a wasted opportunity to many in “Wind Waker,” it fits perfectly to the DS’ more limited hardware. Despite fewer shading effects and lower resolution textures, its visuals are just as strong as its GameCube forbear. “Spirit Tracks” has the same bold and vibrant art style which makes its characters some of the most expressive and memorable of any recent portable title. On the topic of memorable characters, this is the first game in Zelda’s more than 20-year history to incorporate Princess Zelda as anything more than an occasional helper in a final boss fight. Zelda’s spirit travels with Link and serves as a cooperative counterpart and as a voice to comment in place of the silent protagonist, which delivers some very welcome character

cm-life.com/category/vibe

[VIBE]

exposition for this famous and surprisingly feisty character. The on-foot gameplay will be familiar to players of “Phantom Hourglass” as Link is directed with the stylus to combat enemies and use items. It’s a competent and effective control scheme, though not any more fun or precise than using the D-pad and buttons would seem to be. Multiplayer downloadable play with a single cartridge is available for up to four players locally. The battle mode is fun and fast paced but feels shallow compared to the series’ previ-

The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks w System: Nintendo DS w Genre: Action-Adventure w For Ages: Everyone 10+

HHHHH ous strides in multiplayer with “Four Swords.” Little touches, such as personal map annotation and portals back to the entrance of

areas, gives the classically rooted dungeons a fresh feel and mechanics for more logical and rewarding puzzles. “Spirit Tracks” is one of the best portable titles in a series that has championed the venue since “Link’s Awakening” on Game Boy. studentlife@cm-life.com

Couches can be used for more than just sitting. Sometimes, they can be used to tell a story. Waterford senior Annie Blatz and Adrian junior Hillary Cook star in the one-act play “Couch,” which premieres at 7:30 p.m. Thursday in Moore Hall’s Theater-onthe-Side. The play continues at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The play is a comedy set in Dublin, Ireland, focusing on neighbors Rachel (Cook) and Leah (Blatz) as they work through their relationship problems. The show jumps back and forth from each character’s relationship within a twoweek period. “The couch is a metaphor for Rachel’s life,” Blatz said. “In the story she wants Leah’s life.” Mount Pleasant senior Michael Knight plays Rachel’s boyfriend, Bob, and said the story consists of interrelated moments describing people wanting things they do not have. “The story’s about relationships dealing with money and family,” Knight said. Stage manager Samantha Taylor, a Mayville senior, said the crew had less than a month to prepare for the show. “We’ve had a little over two weeks, which is a lot,” Taylor

If you want to attend... w w w w

When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday Where: Moore Hall’s Theater-on-the-Side Cost: Free Directed by: Tim Connors

said. The play is about 45 minutes, with around 18 scenes. Cook said it jumps from scene to scene without following an exact plot. The cast had to learn Irish accents for their roles, something Blatz said was difficult, but fun. Knight said the personalities of the characters are easy to understand because they all say what they think without holding anything bad. Cook cannot wait until opening night. “I feel it’ll be pretty successful,” Cook said. “I think more people will be encouraged to come because we aren’t charging admission.” The show is directed by Tim Connors, professor of communication and dramatic arts. “I’m curious about how people react to this,” said Livonia freshman Eric McCormick, who plays Rachel’s younger brother, Andrew. Traverse City senior Keegan Wilson, the technical director, had a great time working on the show’s set. “I designed it,” Wilson said. “I was in charge of putting it up and designing the lights, like the angles, brightness and colors.” studentlife@cm-life.com

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