September 15, 2010

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Nick Bellore | Senior linebacker probable Saturday against EMU, 5B

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Mount Pleasant, Mich.

Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2010

[cm-life.com]

Bike thefts up across campus Police indicate pedestrian-friendly campus as cause By Annie Harrison Staff Reporter

photos by libby march/staff photographer

Assistant history professor Randall Doyle teaches HST 292: Global Perspectives on Non-Western History about South Korea Monday in Powers Hall. Later this semester, Doyle will be leaving CMU in May to work for U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

Mr. Doyle Goes to

Washington

History professor leaving to work for Hillary Clinton next spring

R

Doyle said he had always been a fan of Campbell and what he stood for, so when he recognized Campbell at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, he introduced himself. Campbell was caught off guard when Doyle asked for a job, but after chatting for a while, he was impressed with Doyle’s experience and background. About a month later, Doyle received a letter offering him a position to work for the Franklin Fellows, a program initiated by the U.S. State Department. “I simply could not pass up an opportunity like that,” Doyle said. Professor Timothy Hall, who was chairman of the history de-

partment through June, wrote a letter of recommendation for Doyle and served as a reference. “I am delighted for this recognition of Dr. Doyle’s expertise in East Asian and Pacific Rim affairs,” Hall said. “It is a great honor for him and a credit to the quality of his work in the field.” Current history chairman and professor Mitchell Hall feels the same way. “It sounds like an excellent opportunity for someone to get their foot in the door by doing some significant work within the government,” Mitchell Hall said. “He’s been a very good contributor to the department so his contributions will certainly be missed.” Doyle’s area of responsibil-

By Gabi Jaye Staff Reporter

Randall Doyle, 52, teaches east Asian and modern China classes at CMU and has been teaching for six years. He lived for 10 years in the Asia Pacific area of the world, mostly in South Korea and Japan.

ity will concern human rights, education and labor in Southeast Asia. He will study and write reports concerning the human rights of Southeast Asia, reports will eventually be sent to Clinton. “It’s like I’m jumping in the deep end, which excites me because I see it as a new challenge in my academic career,” Doyle said. “Having the chance to work for Clinton is an honor.” Doyle was surprised at the speed of the offer, but said his background, knowledge and connection to Campbell all made him stand out. “You can’t beat the hands-on experience of someone who lived, worked and studied in the region,” Doyle said.

Leaving CMU Although Doyle is very excited about his new job, it does mean he will not be returning to CMU, his place of employment since 2005. During that time period, he has worked to rebuild the university’s East Asian history program, which was non-existent upon his arrival. “Working here has allowed me to grow as a scholar and as a teacher,” he said. “I think it’s important to teach and understand Asia’s power in the 21st century.” Doyle’s co-workers in the history department are sad to see him go, but happy and helpful for his new position. The most important

A Bike thefts | 2A

New bill may allow roadside drug testing Police would be equipped with portable kits

By Theresa Clift | Staff Reporter

andall Doyle is going to have a new boss starting next May. The assistant history professor has traveled the world from Europe to Australia, but his next stop will be next spring in Washington, D.C., where he will write reports for Secretary of State Hillary Clinton — his dream job. The idea of Doyle working for Clinton began in February when he met Assistant Secretary of State Kurt Campbell, who covers East Asian and Pacific affairs.

As the number of bicycles on campus have increased, so have bicycle thefts. Reported incidents of bike thefts have come close to doubling over three years, according to statistics from CMU Police. There were 33 reported thefts in 2007, 45 in 2008, 63 reported thefts in 2009, and 50 so far in 2010. CMU Police Sgt. Cameron Wassman said the increase is likely because of more students using bikes instead of cars for transportation around campus. “People are bringing more bikes and, unfortunately, they are not securing them properly,” he said. Such an increase in bike usage can be attributed to efforts to make the campus more pedestrian- and

cyclist-friendly, including the addition of bike lanes and bike racks, said Sgt. Mike Morrow. Alexa Buckland said she brought an old bike to campus so people would not be tempted to steal it. “I’m not nervous about people stealing it because it’s not worth stealing,” the Grand Haven freshman said. Wassman said it is important for students to always lock up their bikes. He recommended students use U-bolt locks because they are harder to cut through than other locks. Morrow said CMU Police have placed an emphasis on bike registration in the past four years in an effort to reduce larcenies and identify stolen bikes. “It was very apparent that it was an ongoing and continuous problem on campus,” he said. He said registration does not significantly decrease the chance of a bike being stolen, but there are

Portable drug tests may be available to Michigan police forces if recent legislation is approved. A proposed change in driving under the influence prevention was introduced Aug. 8 to Michigan lawmakers by state Rep. Rick Jones, R-Grand Ledge. The bill requires Michigan police agencies to carry portable drug test kits in their

vehicles. The kits determine which illegal substance drivers use and how much. The bi-partisan bill was proposed by Jones, state Reps. Mark Meadows, D-East Lansing and Dian Slavens, D-Canton. It is waiting to be assigned to a legislative committee. “In Michigan, we have no tolerance for all illegal drugs,” Jones said. “The officer would explain to you under law that he has a simple roadside test. The saliva is then collected on a swap.” The type and quantity of the present drugs are available to the officer in 10 minutes. In order to use the results in A drugs | 2A

PHOTO Check out a gallery from a staff photographer’s study abroad experience in Thailand

cm-life.com SPORTS Check Friday’s paper for a full preview of CMU football’s game at Eastern Michigan

A prof | 2A

Bedbug resurgence not yet a problem in residence halls Pest management working to prevent outbreaks on campus By Lonnie Allen Staff Reporter

The saying ‘good night, sleep tight, don’t let the bedbugs bite’ doesn’t keep the stealthy night eaters from living in beds and feeding on blood. The growing bug problem in the U.S. has yet to reach the beds of CMU students living on campus, according to Residence Life officials.

“We have had concerns that there might be a problem with bedbugs in various locations throughout campus this school year,” said Bob Andrews, CMU pest management specialist. “Fortunately, none of them have proven to have bedbugs.” Andrews said he does a thorough inspection of the bed, bedding and furniture in bedrooms and common furniture in the residence room. Though bedbugs have not been an issue for nearly 60 years, they are making a resurgence. Biology chairman Stephen Roberts said it is not caused by a lack of

cleanliness. Cimex lectularius, the species infesting areas in Michigan and nationwide, was nearly wiped out in North America, Roberts said. “Pesticides like DDT, which was very effective in killing bedbugs is no longer used,” Roberts said. “The problem was DDT was detrimental to non-target species like birds. That is why the pesticide is banned.” Bedbugs are good hitchhikers and students moving on campus need to examine their items for the insects, Roberts said. Bedbugs often travel from

one locale to another in suitcases and backpacks, he said. They then hide out until night and feed when the host is in deep sleep. “Feeding takes place late at night, early morning,” Roberts said. “Bedbug bites have an anticoagulant and aesthetic to keep the blood flowing and not disturb the host while they are feeding.” Joan Schmidt, associate director of Residence Life, said she is working with Andrews to ensure CMU remains bedbug-free. Andrews makes recom-

ken lambert/seattle times (MCt)

A live bedbug provided by Terminix Pest Control crawls across a dime. A bugs | 2A

2A || Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2010 || Central Michigan Life

EVENTS CALENDAR

cm-life.com/category/news

bike thefts |

PHOTO OF THE DAY

continued from 1A

Today

advantages to having a bike on record. If a bike is located in conjunction with an investigation, Morrow said, it makes it easier to locate the owner. Although bike thefts have gone up, he said, the return rate of stolen bikes to owners has also increased. Buckland said she has not registered her bike yet because she does not know the serial number, but she does keep it locked. Grand Haven freshman Catherine Barnett said she registered her bike online because she was worried about it getting stolen. “It’s a really nice bike and

w A fair trade exhibit on how to spend your money will be held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Bovee University Center: Multicultural Education Center. w Speak Up Speak Out: BP and the Big Spill: At What Cost Oil? will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. in the UC Auditorium. w Carrie Anne Parks Gallery Opening Reception Gallery talk regarding artwork, artistic process, inspiration and content will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Charles V. Park Library: Baber Room.

Thursday w Einstein Bros. Bagels are giving away free small brew coffees with a bagel purchase any time through out the day in the Education and Human Services Building. w Welcome back gathering for faculty, staff and students interested in women’s studies will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. in the UC Auditorium. w Zen Meditation Group will meet from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 503 E. Broadway St.

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. Š Central Michigan Life 2010 Volume 91, Number 11

drugs | continued from 1A

court, the swab must be sent to a lab. The kits will be used to test drivers of automobiles, snowmobiles, ATV’s and locomotives. Former Eaton County sheriff, Jones saw a need for drug kits during his experience. “Up until now, science hasn’t made a test like this available,� he said. “I was one of the first to discover that this option was available with law enforcement background.� Jones said police can now shift their focus back to more violent crimes instead of spending

prof | continued from 2A

question regarding future peace and prosperity relies on the relationship between the U.S and China in the 21st century, Doyle said. He hopes after his first year with the Franklin Fellows program, he will be offered a permanent position dealing with Asia. “I’d prefer East Asia because it is where the geopolitical actions are going to be taking place,� Doyle said. “If you want to know where the power is, follow the money to Asia, especially the East.�

if it got stolen I wanted it to be found,� she said. The number of reported bike larcenies each year includes cases where they were later returned. CMU police did not have a figure on how many were recovered and returned those years. The department has improved the bike registration process, Morrow said. Students can either register their bikes in person at the Combined Services Building or register online at www. cmich.edu/police. “We have made the system user-friendly,� he said. university@cm-life.com

paige calamari/staff photographer

West Bloomfield sophomore Abbie Schreier kisses her horse Lakota after letting her run on a lunge line Tuesday afternoon at the La-Joy Farm in Shepherd. Schreier, who has had Lakota for three years, began horseback riding at age 10. “I was that little girl who always loved horses,� she said.

More information w

Appearance: -Reddish brown, oval insects -About 3/16-inch or size of an apple seed

w

Common habitats: -Mattress seams -Sheets -Furniture -Behind baseboards -Electrical outlet plates -Picture frames

w

Bites: -Most commonly on the upper body -May cause itching -Appears in red welts or swelling -Not immediately obvious

w How to detect: People sometimes roll onto bedbugs while they sleep, resulting in bloodstains upon the sheets. Live bedbugs leave clusters of dark brown or black spots of dried excrement on infested surfaces. Bedbugs also exude a subtle, sweet, musty odor. Source: www.michigan.gov/ emergingdiseases

bugs | continued from 1A

mendations to Schmidt when there is a pest problem in residence halls and has received specific training in bedbug and other pest concerns. He said he has not encountered any positive cases of the “biting vermin� at CMU. However, some students have made calls about the pest, Andrews said, as have some community members. “We have had several reports from folks within the community,� said Mari Pat Terpening, personal health and communicable disease supervisor for the Central Michigan District Health Department. “The frequency of reports is much less in this area then those in other parts of the state and country.� There have been numerous outbreaks reported in Detroit and southern Michigan over the past couple of years, she said. Students can reduce the risk by reducing clutter in their room, Andrews said, and not jamming the closet and dresser too full of clothes.

Residence Life checks empty rooms before students move in. Roberts said the pest leave signs of infestation easily seen, such as reddish brown spots left from bloodsucking and defecation. Andrews said if bedbugs are found in a room, they have various pest management methods to eliminate the problem. “We replace the mattress with a new one in a bedbugproof encasement, treat the room numerous times and monitor the room to assure the problem is resolved,� Andrews said. More information on the statewide bedbug issue can be found at www.michigan. gov/emergingdiseases.

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Sign up for a Sam’s ClubŽ Amazing savings Collegiate Membership, and the for school value begins instantly with a $15 Sam’sand Club Gift Card. more Visit SamsClub.com/collegiate for details.

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$ hours on drug testing. He said the kits will also save the state money — only costing $15. CMU Police Sgt. Mike Morrow said there are several benefits to the bill. “If the use of this new investigative tool prevents the loss of at least one life,� he said, “then I fully support it.� Police forces have policies enabling them to pull over a reckless driver who could be under the influence of a substance. Only the operator of a motorized vehicle will be subject for testing. Drivers are still allowed to refuse testing. “What an officer may observe are people driving off the road and across the center lane,� Jones said. “I’ve also seen people go up to red lights and not drive

when the light turned green.� Jeff Browne, public information officer for Mount Pleasant Police, said he needs to see the drug kit before supporting or opposing the bill. “I don’t know if these kits will make drug testing harder or easier,� Browne said. “One obstacle with this kit might be the new medical marijuana law. It stays in your body for 30 days so it’d be interesting to see how they’re going to test for drugs.� Jones said he is confident his team’s bill will be approved because most people do not believe people should be driving under the influence of drugs.

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Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2010

inside life Central Michigan Life

Candidates at a loss on gubernatorial debate agreement By Maria Amante Staff Reporter

Michigan may not see an official gubernatorial debate this election. Democratic candidate Virg Bernero and GOP candidate Rick Snyder have yet to agree on debate terms. Friday, the Snyder campaign ended negotiations because of two sticking points. Bernero spokesman Cullen Schwarz said they objected

hosted debates. In 1998, Republican governor John Engler refused to debate Democratic candidate Geoffrey Feiger. Bill Ballenger, editor of Inside Michigan Politics and former Griffin Endowed Chair, said debates were not consistent in the years before television and radio. The candidates are in opposite positions at the moment; Snyder, an Ann Arbor businessman, has everything to lose and Bernero has every-

to the time of one debate and the moderators, because they were all chosen by the Snyder campaign. “They gave us a final offer with a four-hour deadline,” Schwarz said. “We accepted their offer, but suggested we continue to talk about two modifications. They unilaterally ended negotiations (after) we accepted 99 percent of what they wanted.” Michigan gubernatorial candidates have not always

Rick Snyder

Virg Bernero

thing to gain by debating, Ballenger said. “It wouldn’t be the end of the world,” Ballenger said. “Snyder is so far ahead in the

polls, that he’s just basically in a position where he may try to run out the clock, set his own agenda, basically stiff-arm Bernero and allow the days to go by until all of a sudden it’s November 2.” It felt as though Bernero, mayor of Lansing, was delaying the process during negotiations because it is better for his campaign to debate closer to the election, said a representative for the Snyder campaign.

Bernero surprised the Snyder campaign when he appeared unannounced at one of their events Monday. Snyder invited Bernero on-stage to speak and answer questions from the crowd. Snyder’s strategy is likely to do debates as early as possible and control the format, which has been standard debate strategy for half a century, Ballenger said. metro@cm-life.com

Graduate enrollment increases at CMU By Sherri Keaton Staff Reporter

Graduate enrollment at CMU this fall surpassed narrowly surpass last year’s total. From 1,902 to 1,922 students, the official figures were announced this week at a 1.1 percent increase from 2009. “We have talked about being higher than that and therefore we are a little disappointed,” said Roger Coles, interim dean of the College of Graduate Studies. “But yesterday, I took the opportunity to phone eight universities in the state of Michigan and they are all down.” The college’s goal involves reaching 2,000 within the next several years. “For this year, we still have increased but not as much as we want to,” said Robert Hassen, coordinator of graduate recruiting. “Most of the increase we think is because of the active recruiting we are doing and (what) the different departments are doing.” Graduate students make up about 9 percent of 21,290 students on CMU’s campus. Hassen said a large portion of the graduate student population comes from former undergraduate students at CMU. “Our total number is about 800 (graduate students) who got their bachelors degree from CMU,” he said. “I think they are comfortable with the faculty, they like them and they want to stay on and continue to work with them.” Tawas City graduate student Benjamin St. Aubin is one such student. St. Aubin said he was attracted to the Masters of Science Administration program because of the opportunity to pursue an advanced degree and gain an edge in the depressed job market. “The skills and experience I received are invaluable,” St. Aubin said. “I am just extremely happy with everything that happened at Central Michigan.” MSA program coordinator Denise Schafer said there are about 200 active MSA students within her program. “I think Central Michigan University offers students a nice combination of a big-school education with a small-town community atmosphere,” she said. “And on top of that, I know our department makes special efforts to have a personal connection with each of our students.” university@cm-life.com

Lowell Hager of Mount Pleasant talks to project manager Jason Tubbs about the design for the crawl hole into the children’s room at the new Grace Church. “How cool will it be,” Tubbs said. “You’re at church and you get to crawl through a hole and play.”

Ben Coffman, left, and DJ Lombardo, right, both of Mount Pleasant, apply glue to boards for one of the entrances to the new Grace Church. “This is one of my favorite parts of the day,” Lambardo said.

rising from the embers

photos by katie Thoresen/staff photographer

Chad Warner of Shepherd saws wood to help repair the doorway in the basement of the new Grace Church.

Work continues on old restaurant as Grace Church prepares move By Josh Simmett Staff Reporter

G

race Church is turning the loaves of bread and ample fish of The Embers Restaurant into a new home for their faith. In June 2009, Grace Church purchased the building that formerly housed The Embers Restaurant, 1217 S. Mission St. Since then, con-

struction has been ongoing to transform the building from a restaurant to a house of worship. “We have over 120 volunteers who have been working on the building with us since we started,” said Dan Koefoed, a performance hall manager for the school of music and volunteer for the project. “Almost all of the work has been done by the volunteers with the ex-

ception of a few specialty contractors that we had to hire.” Last year, the volunteers worked to get the building to usable shape so they could hold their first service, their annual New Year’s Eve service. “We expect to be working on the building for years to come, but we hope to be able to officially open up for service this fall, in the

next three weeks if we can manage,” said Jason Tubbs, the project coordinator and Grace Church staff member. With the purchase of The Embers, Grace Church has stopped leasing a number of properties scattered across downtown that it used for children’s ministries. The former Embers building has ample room for multiple ministries for children of

various ages as well as room for a stage, lobby and different halls, Koefoed said. There is even a space reserved for a coffee and latte bar, where students will be able to make a wide variety of international beverages. Jeff Tuma, former owner of The Embers and a member of Grace Church, has kept tabs on the project but

A embers | 5A

Class brings hip-hop to campus TAI course helps students bust a move By Rachel Dybicki Staff Reporter

Joe Tobianski/staff photographer

Texas resident Bird Clarkson, who calls himself the “professor of dance,” break dances Tuesday afternoon at Central Park. “Hip-hop came from outside, so I brought today’s class out,” he said.

Anyone walking through Cental Park Tuesday afternoon had the opportunity to bust a move. As a part of their TAI 178A: Hip-hop class, students showed off their techniques. A wooden platform was set up so the students could per-

form for their classmates as well as onlookers. The free style dancing and performances were opportunities for students like St. Johns freshman Shara West to exhibit her expressive sides. “Dancing is my escape,” she said. “I’ve been break dancing since I was 13 and I am constantly dancing all the time.” The class covers a variety of different hip-hop dances, including house, club and even music video choreography. During class, the group goes over techniques and the ori-

Eric Dresden, Managing Editor | news@cm-life.com | 989.774.4343

gins of each dance style. Grand Haven freshman Alexa Buckland was one of many audience members who enjoyed the show. Students in the audience applauded after many of the moves throughout the class. “It’s pretty cool how they get to go out and express themselves through break dancing and a lot of them are really good,” she said. There were different styles from many different people united by their love for dance. “I love dancing, the feeling,

the adrenaline rush, having people surrounding you and everything about the many aspects of dance,” said Rockford freshman Evan Schulz. There will be two sections of TAI 178A offered next semester. Doug Maisonville hopes the classes raise interest about break dancing. “I think there needs to be more excitement about break dancing, it’s some crazy stuff,” the Farmington freshman said. studentlife@cm-life.com

voices Central Michigan Life

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Wednesday, Sept. 15, 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/opinion]

Editorial Board: Jackie Smith Editor

in

Chief | Brad Canze, Voices Editor | Eric Dresden, Managing Editor |

Jake Bolitho University Editor | Maryellen Tighe, Metro Editor | Aaron McMann, Sports Editor

EDITORIAL | Legislature would improve public safety

Roadside drug tests a must

M

aintaining safety on Michigan roads is, and rightfully should be, one of the highest priorities of public safety for state lawmakers.

The proposal to allow police officers to use a portable drug test kit on drivers suspected of driving under the influence is something that should be approved through the state Senate and put into action as soon as possible. Just like portable breathalyzers for alcohol intoxication, this device, which the Detroit Free Press reports can run more than 500 drug tests in five to 10 minutes, would allow police officers to quickly determine whether a

driver is intoxicated and take appropriate action immediately. It would be hard to find many people who would argue against laws and methods discouraging drivers from swerving, speeding and disregarding traffic laws because they decided to get high and drive to Taco Bell. As with any situation of police officers on patrol being given more power and authority, the law must be specifically tailored to keep the law from being

abused or taken advantage of. The law, as currently written, would allow only the driver to be tested in this manner, if there is reason to believe they are under the influence of drugs. Making sure these tests are administered correctly and responsibly is paramount. However, not much information is available about the devices that would be used to test for drugs. Breathalyzer tests are known to be a reliable way to determine whether an individual has been drinking. These devices need to be rigorously tested at every level, on every drug they are proclaimed

to detect, by state authorities and private organizations. One would hope that, with the legislature passing through the state house and already in the senate, that rigorous testing has already been done, and the findings will soon be released to the public. The country will have its eyes on our state if these devices are put into use. There is little doubt that the first case of somebody being charged due to a roadside drug test will be contested in court. How effective the tests are, how conclusive the evidence is and how willing judges and juries are to stand by the evidence provided by these devices in Michigan could determine the future of drug enforcement methods for the entire country.

KIM PATISHNOCK [CENTRAL SQUARE]

Joe Martinez Columnist

We are not all crazy As someone who freely admits to being politically conservative, it always angers me when people just assume I am tuned into Fox News 24/7 and I already have a ballot punched for Sarah Palin in 2012. I do not watch Glenn Beck or even think Sarah Palin is qualified to run as much as a Dairy Queen. I have no doubt President Barack Obama was born in Hawaii; not Kenya, Senegal or the forest moon of Endor. And I am not alone. Not all conservatives are hatemongering, border patrolling lunatics who are convinced that the Second Amendment entitles Americans to carry AK-47’s and grenade launchers on the street. I guarantee most people who identify themselves as conservative want nothing to do with Palin, the Tea Party or Ann Coulter. In last month’s GOP gubernatorial primary, the two candidates who went to the extreme right and courted the Tea Party vote, U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra of Holland and Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard, fell to the candidate who positioned himself as a moderate in Rick Snyder. Republicans out-voted Democrats nearly two-to-one in the Aug. 3 primary, because of the economic mess this state is in because of eight years of incompetency of the administration of Jennifer Granholm. Snyder securing the GOP gubernatorial nomination proves that Michigan Republicans care more about who will build up the economic infrastructure of Michigan than building a fence on a border. Believe it or not, the overwhelming majority of people who have a problem with Obama have a problem with the president not because he is black or because conservatives are naturally racist, but because we have a president who is rapidly expanding the role of government to levels not seen since the New Deal while adding hundreds of billions to the nation’s debt. Sarah Palin is an idiot; it’s the rest of us who aren’t.

[ Letters]

Commit to energy conservation Editor’s note: To send a letter to the editor, e-mail voices@cm-life. com. As a proud Central Michigan University Chippewa, I applaud the university for their efforts to become a sustainable university as well as their efforts to push students to recycle. But there are a few issues I would like to address about what the university has done. Since the Education and Human Services Building has been open, it has created a beautiful picture

on the CMU campus, but while being a “green” building it doesn’t act as one at times. If a student were to walk by the EHS building at night they would notice that there are many lights and projectors left on in the building. This seems like the opposite of what the university is trying to accomplish. Isn’t the whole idea to reduce energy use in turn reducing costs? With all these lights on it doesn’t seem that the University is truly reducing their energy consumption. Throughout campus there are

many buildings that have lights left on in them, that seem to be more than emergency lighting of course. As a student who pushes being green as well as pushes people to recycle and be more sustainable on their own, all I am asking is for the University to take a look at the EHS building and turn those lights and projectors off. As well as turn off any lights that are not necessary in other buildings on campus. Taylor Parmentier Commerce senior

C M Y o u What do you think of the football team so far this season?

Central Michigan Life

Editorial Jackie Smith, Editor in Chief Eric Dresden, Managing Editor Connor Sheridan, Student Life Editor Maryellen Tighe, Metro Editor Jake Bolitho, University Editor Chelsea Kleven, Lead Designer Aaron McMann, Sports Editor Jake May, Photo Editor Sean Proctor, Assistant Photo Editor Adam Kaminski, Video Editor Advertising Shawn Wright, Paige Winans, Carly Schafer Advertising Managers Professional staff Rox Ann Petoskey, Production Leader Kathy Simon, Assistant Director of Student Media Neil C. Hopp, Adviser to Central Michigan Life Central Michigan Life is the independent voice of Central Michigan University and is edited and published by students of CMU every Monday, Wednesday and Friday during the fall and spring semesters, and on Wednesday during the summer term. The online edition (www.cmlife.com) contains all of the material published in print.

Nathan Inks Columnist

Don’t be a hater to the waiter They are people who are far too often taken for granted. Most make minimum wage. They are people that we see every day, yet often don’t even give a second thought about what we would do without them. Who are they? Food service employees. For some reason or another, too many Americans take food service employees for granted. One would think that people who provide you with a necessity for life would receive at least a little more respect, but in my five years of working in the food service industry, I have come across more rude and discourteous people than I ever thought possible. Take that and multiply it by about fifty for the food service workers up here in Mount Pleasant who have to deal with drunk and immature college students. Especially trampled are fast food workers. For some reason, people often think much less of them for the simple reason that they are standing behind a counter instead of bringing out their food to a table. Don’t get me wrong, the food service industry can be fun, but when it is a bad day, it is often a completely terrible day. Be considerate next time you go out somewhere to eat. Everybody makes mistakes, so if your waitress makes a mistake, be polite about pointing it out. Normally, if a mistake is politely pointed out, employees have no problem correcting it. It’s when customers get fanatical that we as employees begin to be not so nice back. Also, being “the drunk” at a restaurant can be funny, and even put a smile on an employee’s face if it’s been a long day, but don’t take it over the line. The last thing an employee wants to deal with is trying to control an out-of-control customer. So if you have been drinking too much, think twice about making that trip to Taco Bell at two in the morning. Working in the food service industry has made me appreciate food service workers more than I ever imagined, and it has been a great learning experience. I would encourage everybody to work at least a year of their life in the food service industry. I guarantee that after spending some time on the other side of the counter or in the back of the kitchen, attitudes about going out to eat will change.

E-mail | voices@cm-life.com Mail | 436 Moore Hall Mount Pleasant, MI 48859 Fax | 989.774.7805

“I like them. I think they are a good, athletic bunch of kids.” Mary Tomlinson,

Milford freshman

“They are not as good as last year. Should have won the last game.”

“I think they look good.” Shu Fang,

China freshman

James Fleming,

Detroit junior

“It’s too early in the season to tell. Good opener against Hampton, can only go up from there.” Alex Alwine,

Edwardsburg freshman

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.

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New ‘Google Instant’ becomes synonymous with Internet usage Search engine provides instant results, e-mail By Ryan Taljonick Senior Reporter

Joey Scherba’s day-to-day needs are no longer limited to food and shelter. The Internet has become an integral part of his life — a necessity — and through his daily use of the Web, “google. com” has firmly cemented itself within the muscle memory of his finger tips. “I use Google every single day,” Scherba said. “In the case of the technology world, Google is like that technology father — everyone goes to it for resources.” Google, a popular search engine service, is visited by about 44 percent of global Internet users on a daily basis, according to Alexa.com, a Web traffic monitoring service. The company also offers additional services to its users, including free e-mail accounts, calender and document programs. Scherba really enjoys Google’s latest development: Google Instant, a feature providing search results in real-

Central Michigan Life || Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2010 || 5A

[News]

time as a user types keywords in the search box. “As you’re typing it the results start popping up, that’s way awesome,” he said. “It’s just as accurate as it always was.” Paul Albee, a computer science assistant professor, said Google Instant is interesting from a purely technical perspective. “I think it relies on really good network performance,” Albee said. “I’ve also noticed they engage in a little bit of content filtering on the fly. I find that troubling.” Albee said by filtering content on Google Instant, Google can direct the way people search. “I believe it is concerning that they’re now making judgment calls on what they want a search to provide versus what they don’t want it to provide,” he said. Scherba said Google plays an important role in the life of an average student. “We have research projects and papers to type,” the Flushing sophomore said. “It’s pretty much the number one site I go to when I need to search something.” A lot to offer Albee said Google has a lot to offer its users.

“I think what you’re going to see is that Google is hitting the major needs of the student,” he said. “You’ve got your e-mail, you’ve got your calender, there’s a lot of interesting stuff out there.” Albee uses several Google products, including its email, calender, document and “app” services. However, as Google continues to extend its reach in the Web, Albee said the company may be treading dangerous waters. “They’re expanding into too many things,” he said. “They may run into the situation where they are diverting their resources into too many directions and lose their focus ... They have to decide where they put their resources, what they put their emphasis on.” Albee said Google’s services, while free for its users, are extremely expensive to operate and he worries it may someday charge its users for extra services. Midland sophomore Jim Bicknell said he remembers the pre-Google world. “It was like the Dark Ages of the Internet,” he said. “You needed to be well-versed in Web browsing to find anything.”

embers | continued from 3a

remained at arm’s length. “Jeff has been very supportive of the project, but the building was like his baby,” said Barry Flanders, Pastor of Grace Church. “It’s hard on him to see us tearing out the walls to open up the space and all of the other construction we are doing.” While they are planning to switch primary service from the Ward Theatre, 218 S. Main St., to The Embers building there are no plans to sell the Ward Theatre, Flanders said. Grace Church will keep the theater because it is a better location for music, a critical part of their ministry. “We have had offers from interested parties for the Ward, but for now we plan to keep it although in the future we may sell

it for an amount that we think it is worth,” Koefoed said. So far, work on the building has gone smoothly, Tubbs said. The only serious setback the group encountered was when the basement flooded and they had to focus on tearing up the carpet and fixing the water damage.

The crew does not view that as a setback, but rather a blessing. “It was God’s way of telling us that that is the part of the building that we should be focusing on,” Koefoed said. “So we shifted gears and put our focus there.” metro@cm-life.com

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Central Michigan Life

campus vibe

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Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2010

[cm-life.com/category/vibe]

Life in another country Program gives life experiences, new perspectives to students

e b o l G Trotters

Hurt economy helps students afford program By Odille Parker Staff Reporter

By Mike Nichols Staff Reporter

Imagine going to college in another country. Every year, about 500 students travel to more than 30 different countries through the CMU Study Abroad Program. Among them was Traverse City junior Heather Flowers, who put her education to the test when she went to Oaxaca, Mexico last year to help teach English in an orphanage. “One of the big things was seeing what real poverty is,” said Flowers, who is majoring in child development and communication disorders. “It’s completely different in another country.” Lindsey Forton, an Alto senior, has studied in both Oaxaca and Scotland. She said world travel has impacted her perspective on life. “I realize that I have a much broader mind set about a lot of things, having spent time with people from so many different cultures, which I believe is a huge benefit of studying abroad,” Forton said. Each student agreed trips give students not only a new view of the world but a chance to enjoy its culture. Detroit senior Antanique Holcomb said the highlight of her travels in Austria was attending a ball in the Emperor’s Palace. “There were people in floorlength gowns doing the Viennese Waltz,” she said. “You felt like you got a lot of European history just being there.” Not all students go just for the educational experience. Stephanie Jaczkowski wanted to reconnect with her ancestry in Warsaw, Poland, where she chose to study abroad. “My family’s been here for 100 years and nobody’s ever gone back,” the Clinton Township junior said. “I wanted to go back to my heritage and roots.” Most of Jaczkowski’s classes were in English. She said she most enjoyed an international politics class with a whole host of other students from abroad. She said she enjoyed being exposed to the perspectives of students hailing from about 20 different countries in one class. But one experience did leave Jaczkowski speechless: Visiting Auschwitz. “You can’t explain it,” she said. “You really just have to see it.” Illinois senior Joey Rasich chose to visit Spain for his double major in International Business and Spanish. He said having the international experience and knowing the global market will make him more marketable to employers. He said he is Catholic and witnessing Spanish parades celebrating religious holidays was very moving. He plans to study abroad again and encourages anyone, whether it be for personal or educational purposes, to try it once. “I only have the best things to say about Study Abroad,” Rasich said. “You’re never going to get the opportunity again to just pack up, travel the world, and get college credit for it.”

Grants make trips possible

Sara winkler/staff photographer

From left: Detroit senior Antanique Holcomb, Clinton Township junior Stephanie Jackzkowski, Alto senior Lindsey Forton, Illinois senior Joseph Rasich and Traverse City junior Heather Flowers are all Study Abroad Peer Advisors who work in the Bovee University Center, room 106. They help students who wish to study abroad by offering their advice from their own experience. Each peer advisor has been on a trip themselves to places including Mexico, Spain and Poland.

cm-life.com Watch video interviews with students who have studied abroad.

The Stirling Bridge in Scotland Alto senior Lindsey Forton saw studying abroad in Spring 2010. photo courtesy of lindsey forton

be from 6 to w The Stu dy Abroad Fair will ity Center’s ers 8 p.m. tod ay in Bovee Univ on pro tion rma info r offe Rotund a. It will abroad. dits cre gra ms and get ting college ck out che or 08 -43 774 call For mo re info, tm. ad.h ww w.cmich.ed u/stud y_a bro

university@cm-life.com

Illinois senior Joseph Rasich has his first ride on a camel while studying abroad. Rasich studied international business in Spain and vacation in Northern Africa during a weekend.

Adjusting to CMU

photo courtsey of joseph rasich

By Mike Nichols Staff Reporter

Clinton Township junior Stephanie Jackzkowski visited a Warsaw castle in Stare Miasto, Poland, on a Study Abroad trip during the 2010 spring semester. photo courtesy of stephanie jaczkowski

studentlife@cm-life.com

To Learn More

CMU’s Study Abroad program is making sure students have the opportunity to go out of the country despite a tough economy. With more than $100,000 in study abroad scholarships every year, the Study Abroad Office and Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid are working together with students to find a program that fits both their interests and budget. Dianne De Salvo, the program’s director, emphasized the benefits taking part in her program can afford students. “Foreign language and travel experience are essential in today’s job market,” she said. “It is a different dynamic of learning when students are surrounded by a culture and language 24/7.” Students have other options apart from the various scholarships, including grants of up to $5,000 offered yearly. Some programs also offer tuition-exchange, where tuition abroad is equivalent to that at CMU. Overall, travel expenses have actually decreased, De Salvo said. Exchange rates are down worldwide due to the weakened economy; while places like England and Spain were once costly destinations, they have become more affordable. Muskegon senior Nicole Carlson used an Honors Program and Centralis Scholarship to study abroad in Oaxaca, Mexico, through the “Los Ninos de Oaxaca” program. “It was an amazing opportunity,” she said. “I was exposed to an entirely different culture, and being able to witness poverty first-hand was really eye opening.” Carlson stressed the importance of taking the opportunity, applying for scholarships and just going for it. “The Study Abroad Program makes it feasible for anyone to study abroad,” Carlson said. “There are a lot of scholarships that students can take advantage for. And even if the trip puts you in a little debt, it is all worth it.”

Alto senior Lindsey Forton stands with a group of friends at the Eilean Donan Castle in Scotland, during her spring 2010 study abroad trip. photo courtsey of Lindsey forton

Imagine coming to the U.S. from another country for college. One year ago, CMU became home to 564 international students from over 50 different countries. This semester, that number increased as the undergraduate, foreign exchange and English language institute programs welcomed a larger incoming group. Not all students make the journey alone. Freshmen Zhenxiang Xu and Jingwen Ge are both from the Anhui province of China. And both came to study business. “In China, there’s more people than cars,” Ge said. “In America, there’s more cars than people.” Xu and Ge said they were surprised by the contrast between the busy streets of China and the more relaxed atmosphere of Mount Pleasant. Both have been adjusting to the cultural differences, which they find at times amusing. A study | 3B

2B || Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2010 || Central Michigan Life

NEW STUFF HOME VIDEO 1. “Glee: The Complete First Season� 2. “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time� 3. “Letters to Juliet� CDs 1. “Asylum� Disturbed 2. “Band of Joy� Robert Plant 3. “Hurley� Weezer VIDEO GAMES 1. “Halo: Reach� (X360) 2. “Metroid: Other M� (Wii) 3. “Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep� (PSP)

TOP FIVES BOX OFFICE 1. “Resident Evil: Afterlife� $26.7 million 2. “Takers� $5.7 million 3. “The American� $5.7 million 4. “Machete� $4.3 million 5. “Going the Distance� $3.8 million

RYAN’S RANT This week’s topic: Justin bieber I’m sad to say that one of my friends, despite being a grown woman, has Bieber fever. But as far as I’m concerned, her “fever� is more analogous to a cancerous tumor, corrupting and twisting America’s youth into a legion sporting super-cool wavy haircuts and pretty boy swag. As one of the most recognized kids in today’s pop culture, Justin Bieber sings about complicated things, such as love and the intricacies of eenie-meeny-mineymo. How does one develop such a deep understanding of these complexities by the mere age of 16? And how does this child prodigy perform so calmly on stage despite the Chuck E. Cheese adventure that surely awaits him after-

ALBUMS 1. “Asylum� Disturbed 2. “NOW 35� Various Artists 3. “Recovery� Eminem 4. “Teenage Dream� Katy Perry 5. “Back To Me� Fantasia VIDEO GAMES 1. “Metroid: Other M� (Wii) 2. “Wii Sports� (Wii) 3. “Madden NFL 11� (X360) 4. “Wii Sports Resort� (Wii) 5. “Madden NFL 11� (PS3)

MUSIC “You� by Gold Panda

After a nuclear holocaust devastated the world, a handful of human survivors took refuge within Moscow’s underground metro system. Now, years later, the metro is their home. The survivors must fend off the mutated monsters created by the intense radiation left behind in the nuclear aftermath. As you traverse the dark tunnels of the metro and the barren landscapes of the world above, you will witness the game’s wonderfully creepy atmosphere as you battle for your life and for the salvation of mankind. “Metro 2033� is an awesome game and offers an exciting campaign that you won’t soon forget.

The lead track from Gold Panda’s debut LP, “Shiner,� is a wonderfully crafted club banger that — evidenced by Dom Fracassa’s DJ set at Rubbles Bar this past weekend — has the power to get a room of people up out of their seats and onto the dance floor. The track works just as well in solitude as it does in a crowded room, making it an excellent soundtrack for the walk to class. Get it on your iPod and it’ll give you all the drive you need to make it to that 8 a.m. section.

Study Abr   ad Fair

CMU

H ome c o m i n g

2010

Wednesday, September 15 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Bovee UC Rotunda

Meet CMU students who have recently returned from around the world. Join us to find out where you can go. Have fun and win great prizes!

-Ben Weissenborn

www.studyabroad.cmich.edu

-Ryan Taljonick

t h e wo r l d

O ct o b e r 1 0 - 1 6 t h

wards? It’s unbeliebable (pun intended). Now you may say to yourself I’m just jealous because Bieber has more women stalking him than I will ever even meet in my lifetime — this is fact — but, hey, at least I have my horizontal driver’s license! The ‘Bieb and his fans may never say never, but I do: Justin Bieber, you’ll never be Hanson.

VIDEO GAME “Metro 2033� (X360, PC)

ar

o

Ryan Taljonick Senior Reporter

PICK OF THE WEEK

SINGLES 1. “Teenage Dream� Katy Perry 2. “Love The Way You Lie� Eminem feat. Rihanna 3. “Dynamite� Taio Cruz 4. “Just The Way You Are� Bruno Mars 5. “I Like It� Enrique Iglesias feat. Pitbull

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cm-life.com/category/vibe

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cm-life.com/category/vibe

[VIBE]

Two young Thai boys run into the water for a swim to avoid the direct sunlight shining down on Sunrise Beach, March 21 on Ko Lipe Island in southern Thailand.

The United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship protests during one of the many political demonstrations starting at the Sanam Luang staging grounds Feb. 26 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Central Michigan Life || Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2010 || 3B

A monk pays his respects to Buddha Jan. 15 at Wat Traimit in Bangkok, Thailand. Wat Traimit is also known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha because it contains the world’s largest solid-gold Buddha seated nearly 10 feet high and weighing over five tons.

Freedom Found Studying abroad in Thailand expands, informs life experiences

Study |

Photos and column by Victoria Zegler Staff Photographer

As a child, I always dreamed of adventure. My days were spent getting lost in the large valleys I grew up in along the southern California coast. No matter what I saw or who I met, there was one thing I was never fearful of — being free. As I grew older, I found myself chasing opportunities to travel and become familiar with life outside my niche. I was ready to take on the world. I wanted to observe different people and hear ancient history and embrace the fact that the universe is so big and beautiful. You’re thinking, “Where can you find such beauty and diversity?” Well, I have an answer for you: Bangkok, Thailand. Although applying to study abroad was a process in itself, the excitement far exceeds the amount of paperwork to be done. The second I marched off the plane after riding 19 hours overseas I couldn’t control my anticipation. There is something about the city that had my spirit running wild, whether it was the chili sauce in its pad thai or the history of its glittering temples. I was lucky enough to share my experiences with over 60 other students from all over the world in my international exchange program attending Thammasat University in Bangkok. Each day had something new in store for all of us: An unusual dish, a Buddhist holiday celebration or even new friendships. With most of us enrolled in Thai Study Courses, myself and others had the chance to learn the language, which I have to admit was one of my favorite skills I acquired living abroad. My next favorite skill was my ability to travel. Let me elaborate. The idea of being able to travel to so many places within the country of Thailand and having the chance to discover nature, history and, above all, diversity was important to me. My first time traveling to the islands of Koh Phi Phi in southern Thailand, I began noticing slight changes in the culture. The food was blended with more spices and served in bigger portions while the people spoke much faster, with some words taking on different meanings. I thought to myself about the diversity aspect within the country of Thailand and what places were left that I needed to explore. I traveled to the north where I stayed with hill tribes, trekked through jungles and celebrated the Songkran Festival, also known as the water festival, for the Thai New Year. I’ll never forget my last few months in Thailand when my study abroad advisor e-mailed me regarding the ‘Study Abroad Goals’ I had written for myself during orientation before my departure. “See if you have been able to achieve some of your goals, or if perhaps your goals have changed in any way,” she said, I was astonished to see how easily some of my goals had been achieved within the first month but I was made prouder by how much I had achieved. First, gain an understanding of the Asian culture, travel, speak Thai, learn customs and traditions, swim in the ocean, acquire a tolerance for spicy food, meet a monk, touch a temple and, above all, excel. We are constantly changing, growing and maturing at every moment according to plan. Our lives are unfolding and for me, this was just the beginning. Each city or village I visited fulfilled my soul, which was hungry for culture and starving for change. My experiences brought forth independence and appreciation. I was able to lose myself in time, in concert with others and then reclaim my identity. I got to experience sensations I didn’t know existed in my being — those that escape when you have found yourself completely free when embracing the happiness which we all deserve. It was freedom, at last. photo@cm-life.com

continued from 1B

“In China, I wore a larger size, but here I’m a small,” Xu said. “We had one friend who had to buy children’s clothes. All the clothes here are so big.” Both are making progress in their English classes. Ge said watching American movies have helped him, especially the Twilight Saga. “This helps improve my English because they speak so slowly.” he said.

A young Thai boy traveled alongside a three-day jungle trek to Pai, a tiny town in northern Thailand. during the weekend of April 10. The young boy was orphaned two years ago and now lives with his uncle, the tour guide who showed us the northern culture of Thailand. He squirts water from a Super Soaker into the air in celebration of the Songkran Festival and welcoming the Thai New Year.

Tastefully different Xu and Ge are not the only international students dealing with a cultural transitions — particularly in regards to diet. “I think the common food here is pizza,” said Rom Nath Baral, a graduate student from Nepal. This is his first year studying chemistry at CMU. He said he is glad to study in a country he feels is neat, clean and well managed. “The standard of education here is very different,” Baral said. “Here it is more practical, there it more theoretical.” Baral misses his family, especially his two young daughters, Robin and Alisha. He hopes to bring them to the U.S. once he obtains his Ph.D. “I want to bring my family here,” Baral said, “The political situation in Nepal is not so good.” Graduate student Oluwadamilola Oladubu is from Nigeria and came to study Human Resource Management. Oladubu said just her experiences in a different environment are teaching her about people. Although she enjoys Mount Pleasant, she said it was a culture shock to hear students address professors like equals. “In Nigeria, you have to address older people by a certain way,” she said. “It’s been weird having to address some professors by their first name.” Oladubu said even she misses her home church, but is happy attending Potter’s House with friends. Currently, she is uncertain about her future. “Right now, I just want to get my master’s,” she said. “I might work here for a while, then go back home. The opportunity is what really matters.” studentlife@cm-life.com

Left: A Thai man performs a dance with double fire poi for audiences along side the beach on Feb. 18 on Koh Phi Phi Island in southern Thailand. Fire dancing in Thailand is a cultural tradition and children as young as nine years old learn to dance with fire to entertain. Top Right: New Jersey resident Will Cosden, 20, is ‘cleansed’ for the new year by a young boy from Bangkok on April 14 during the Songkran Festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The water festival is Thailand’s most celebrated holiday with the word Songkran meaning the beginning of a new solar year. It is supported by the religious belief that anything old and useless must be thrown away or it will bring bad luck to the owner. Bottom Right: A Thai man walks through a crowd of devotees after being sprayed with water blessed during the religious festival taking place at Wat Bang Phra Feb. 27 in Nakhon Chaisi, Thailand. As a sense of cleansing the soul, people stand in line to take bottles of the sacred water home with them.

4B || Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2010 || Central Michigan Life

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[VIBE]

‘Resident Evil: Afterlife’ brings series back to basics By Rachael Woods Staff Review

Milla Jovovich returns as the super-powered, zombies’ worst nightmare Alice in “Resident Evil: Afterlife.” Written and directed by Paul W. S. Anderson, it is the fourth installment of the franchise originally inspired by the “Resident Evil” video game sensation; Unlike the lackluster and often outrageous second and third films we actually begin to see again the presentation that made us fall in love with the games.

The film continues the story of Alice as she attempts to exact revenge on Albert Wesker (Shawn Roberts) and the Umbrella Corporation, a bio-engineering company responsible for the genetic experimentation that led to the global zombie apocalypse. The first 45 minutes of the film are the equivalent of Anderson taking a red pen to everything that made the previous Resident Evil installments slapdash and soulless — a lot of the more absurd threads get purged and the story settles into

a more manageable narrative: Alice’s investigation of Arcadia – a zombie-free zone, where survivors attempt to rebuild human civilization. In her search, Alice is reunited with Claire Redfield (Ali Larter) and the two travel to Los Angeles where they meet the film’s supporting cast of one-dimensional Hollywood types, but luckily this doesn’t affect much of “Afterlife’s” purpose as the films are more about intense, over the top, ways to kill zombies than apocalyptic survival. That said, Anderson succeeds

in building intrigue and complexity around a late addition to the group, a man trapped in a Hannibal-like glass isolation box in the basement of the prison where Alice and the survivors barricade themselves, whom we discover is Claire’s brother, Chris (Wentworth Miller). The second half of the film builds a “Resident Evil” narrative non-dependent on the soulless butt-kicking Alice provided to the series – which gives it some room to grow, as well as reflect “Resident Evil 5’s” more action than-survival-horror aesthetic.

“Resident Evil: Afterlife”

HHH Once the survivors attempt their escape, the plot doesn’t offer many surprises but at least manages to stay on the rails. Compared to the previous films, the story follows a sensible progression and offers some fun moments along the way as well. “Resident Evil: Afterlife” was shot in 3D and doesn’t suffer

from a terrible post-production 3D retrofit like we saw in “Clash of the Titans.” However, that doesn’t mean the 3D effects add anything to the experience; in fact, it is at times distracting and headaching thanks to the ninja stars, swords, and limbs constantly being thrown into our faces. For those who are fans of the “Resident Evil” films, this is sure to entertain; and be sure to stick around after the credits for a peek at the next movie. studentlife@cm-life.com

‘Lisbon’ another great collection from The Walkmen By Ben Weissenborn Staff Review

East coast indie rockers The Walkmen return with “Lisbon,” a brilliant follow-up to 2008’s more mature and focused “You & Me.” The Walkmen have been releasing remarkably consistent sepia-toned rock records for the better part of a decade, establishing a unique sound built upon chiming guitar tones, thundering bass, anxious drums and vocalist Hamilton Leithuaser’s distinctively unsettled voice. “Bows + Arrows” brought them heightened acclaim and recognition in 2004, which led to an appearance on the popular Fox series “The O.C.” the same year. Since then, the band has undergone very minor stylistic changes with each record, further focusing and tightening up their sound. 2008’s “You & Me” found the band utilizing a slightly darker approach, resulting in perhaps their most fully realized album to date. “Lisbon,” the band’s latest record, finds them retuning in similarly excellent form, just as angry and heartbroken as ever, but with a slightly brighter sensibility. The cover art for “Lisbon,” an overexposed photo of a woman sitting on a bench, is

“Lisbon” by The Walkmen

HHHHH a fitting representation for the slightly more sun-soaked nature of the music within. Opening track “Juveniles” sets the mood wonderfully with a bouncing rhythm section and gently melodic guitar lines, a perfect soundtrack for a late-summer evening. The music stands in stark contrast to Leithauser’s rather intense lyrical contribution. “Take a lonely look for my sake/It’s a tragedy,” Leithauser belts in the chorus, sounding like a more restrained, yet desperate Bob Dylan. One thing The Walkmen have become incredibly good at is crafting uptempo, driving

pop songs filled with as much ache and longing as they are confidence and bravado. “Angela Surf City,” the album’s second track, is a wonderful example of this and holds its own when stacked next to The Walkmen’s best tracks. “You took the high road/I couldn’t find you up there,” Leithauser belts from deep within his belly while the band races behind him, unglued and desperate to prove a point. Another thing The Walkmen have become exceptional at is crafting sparse and beautiful ballads. “Stranded,” another of “Lisbon’s” strongest tracks, is a horn driven, heartbroken ballad about loss and loneliness perfectly demonstrating just how versatile and talented they have become. Established fans of The Walkmen will undoubtedly

find plenty to love about “Lisbon” and those unfamiliar with their music need look no further for a perfect entry point into the band’s growing

body of work. One of the best records of the year and one of the best records from some of this decade’s most consistent and enjoyable musicians,

“Lisbon” is not to be missed by fans of The Strokes, Bob Dylan or The White Stripes. studentlife@cm-life.com

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