VIDEO GAMES | Consult our guide for hot fall titles, 1B
Central Michigan Life
Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010
Mount Pleasant, Mich.
[cm-life.com]
Events Center needs $2.5 million more to finish expansion Flooding, adjunct contract on board of trustees agenda By Carisa Seltz Senior Reporter
About $2.5 million will be added to funding for the Events Center project if approved by the CMU Board of Trustees Thursday. The board meets at 9:30 a.m. in the Presidential Conference Room of the Bovee
University Center. A total of $1.5 million will focus on a proposal dealing with “unforeseen conditions, design errors and omissions associated with the project,” whereas $500,000 will focus on June 3 flooding issues and $500,000 will focus on rubberized floors taken from the Events Center as a result of flood damage. Out of the $1.5 million, $750,000 is needed to cover the conditions, design errors and omissions. Another $100,000 is needed for inter-
nal signage enhancement and $650,000 is being requested for a 30-foot-by-10foot video board and related video equipment. The request said the “addition of the video and graphics package will provide expanded sponsorship opportunities and the cost will be repaid by athletics from future revenues.” University reserves would finance $850,000 of the additional funds requested and future athletic revenue would finance the rest.
The total cost of the Events Center will rise to $22.5 million if the request is approved. Athletic department officials were unavailable for comment. Flood damage Three requests totaling $4 million pertain to flood damage caused by heavy rainfall that dumped water in the Events Center and other campus buildings. A BOARD OF Trustees | 2A
Ashley Miller/staff photographer
Events Center construction is scheduled for completion in November before the start of basketball season. The expansion to date has amounted to $21.5 million and includes a main entrance, a practice gym and new Rose Arena seating.
Four liquor stores busted in alcohol sting 23 businesses pass police carding effort By Joe Borlik Staff Reporter
unsung heroes By Anthony Fenech | Senior Reporter
Redshirt freshman running back Zirlon Tipton runs past Eastern Michigan defenders to score a touchdown late in the fourth quarter to record his first touchdown of the 2010 season at Rynearson Stadium in Ypsilanti. “That’s my role this year,” he said. “I’m just out there to get the team a win.”
They know their roles. Armond Staten is just a backup linebacker. Mike Petrucci is just a backup linebacker. And Zurlon Tipton, he’s just a “punk freshman.” “That’s my role this year,” Tipton said. “I’m just out there to get the team a win. Wherever they need me, whenever they tell me to go in, I do what I can to get the job done.” And it’s going to take whatever these three can give for the Chippewas to get the job done this season. The trio made their presence felt loud and clear in Saturday afternoon’s 52-14 victory against Eastern Michigan. “The more guys that can play in games like that, the better off your football team is going to be,” said CMU head coach Dan Enos. Against Hampton, Staten recovered a fumble. Against Temple, Petrucci filled in for an injured Nick Bellore. And against EMU, Tipton scored in his first game back in over a year, after an injury ended his season last year and a suspension began his season this year.
They ran, they tackled, they scored and unfortunately for head coach Dan Enos, put together a nice little highlight tape of plays to show the rest of Central Michigan’s opponents that if and when the next Chippewas starter gets injured, there is an army of backups ready to step in and perform. “For any position on your football team, the more guys that can play in games like that, the better
off your football team is going to be,” Enos said. “You need to have capable backups, and we’re very fortunate.” And it didn’t take Enos very long to see just how fortunate the team was. Petrucci “It’s my job to stay consistent and ready to back up,” said Petrucci, a junior linebacker that put a defen-
sive exclamation point on Saturday’s win with a 43-yard fumble recovery touchdown earlier in the fourth quarter. “It’s been good to be able to contribute.” On the play, Petrucci trailed sophomore linebacker Alex Smith on a strong side blitz. After Smith clobbered Eagles quarterback Devontae Payne in the backfield, the
Four cashiers from Mount Pleasant businesses were cited for selling alcohol to minors in a police sting Saturday. Cashiers at Border’s Corner Store, 7024 E. Pickard St., Old Mission Party Store, 5030 S. Mission Road, the Cracker Barrel, 20 E. Remus Road and the 7-Eleven at 302 W. Broomfield St. were all issued citations. The sting targeted 27 businesses, said Jeff Browne, Mount Pleasant Police public information officer. He said the results are about what he expected. “I would say (four) is the norm,” Browne said. “I’d like it best if nobody was cited.” The 23 businesses that passed include Liquor 1, 1707 S. Mission St., Empty Keg Party Store, 122 E. Pickard St. and Todbld’s Party Store, 104 E. May St. Employees at Todbld’s will card anyone who looks under 60 years old, said Jason Bock, a cashier at Todbld’s. “We stress that nobody slacks when it comes to alcohol and tobacco,” Bock said. He said he was surprised four of the businesses were issued citations, but in a college town some cashiers can forget. The police conduct one or two stings a year, Brown said. The stings are conducted by the Youth Services Unit of Isabella County. Browne said an underage individual would go to each business attempting to buy alcohol. If it was purchased, a police officer would come in and issue a citation after the buyer left. Browne said if a person is caught selling to a minor in a sting operation, it is a civil infraction. If it had not been during a sting, it would have been a misdemeanor. The Liquor Control Commission also does alcohol stings, Browne said. metro@cm-life.com
LIVE CHAT Keep up with what happens at the board of trustees meeting Thursday morning
VIDEO Check out the video from CMU’s football game Saturday at EMU
A football | 5A
cm-life.com
Program Board president keeps busy this semester Loss of On the Fly means more work for Steve Lewis By Chelsea Hohn Staff Reporter
victoria zegler/staff photographer
Allegan junior Steve Lewis, president of Program Board, left, goes over an attendance sheet Tuesday night on the third floor of the Bovee University Center with Madison Heights sophomore Emily Panone, cultural events chairwoman, to reward those who participate in events.
Steve Lewis is under a lot of pressure these days. The Allegan junior is president of Program Board, the organization responsible for bringing much of the entertainment featured at CMU. His duties include booking events, ensuring all shows are confirmed, staying in close contact with his adviser Damon Brown, coor-
dinator of student activities and going over contracts. But since On The Fly Productions was cut at the end of last semester, Program Board has been pushed farther into the spotlight. “I met with (the president and vice president of On The Fly) and saw what they thought was good for the campus,” Lewis said. Program Board is now pushed even harder to bring entertainment to CMU while staying within budget limits, Program Board vice president and Pinconning senior Crysta Heckman said. “We don’t have On The Fly as co-sponsor anymore,
it makes it harder to do bigger shows,” Heckman said. “We don’t have the funding to do shows as much as we used to, but it’s brought new members to our organization.” Teamwork Lewis doesn’t do it alone. Heckman shares the same stresses and responsibilities. “It can get really stressful balancing everything, but it’s always worth it just to see students having a good time,” Heckman said. Balance is a large part of Program Board, Heckman said. Satisfying the masses
with various artists is another job Lewis has to accomplish, “We just try to get everyone’s opinions,” Heckman said. Surveys and student input is the most accurate way to gauge what performers to bring, she said. In 2008, Heckman sent out a large amount of surveys asking students what comedian they would prefer. Demetri Martin ended up triumphant in those surveys and Program Board brought him to Rose Arena after Bob Saget canceled.
A Lewis | 2A
2A || Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010 || Central Michigan Life
EVENTS CALENDAR
cm-life.com/category/news
PHOTO OF THE DAY
board of trustees | continued from 1A
Steve Lawrence, associate vice president of Facilities Management, said CMU will seek reimbursement from an insurance policy subject to the university’s $50,000 deductible to replenish the reserve account. “We will be reimbursed by the insurance company,” he said. “That’s our expectation.” One proposal requests $500,000 to repair damage in the Events Center that occurred during a June 3 flood in which Mount Pleasant received 1.7 inches of rain. The water that entered the lower level of the building flooded four different locker rooms and six former racquetball courts now used to store athletic department equipment. Another proposal requests $3 million to repair damage that occurred during the Aug. 11 flood in which the
Today w Big Brothers, Big Sisters will meet at 8:30 p.m. in Moore 101 w Ski and Snowboard Club will meet at 8:30 p.m. at the Bovee University Center Down Under Food Court w A Student Workshop with Alan Jacobs will be from noon to 5:30 p.m. at the Kaya Coffee & Tea Co., 1029 S. University Ave. w Pi Sigma Alpha Political Science Honors Fraternity will meet from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Down Under Food Court.
Thursday w Alan Jacobs will give a public lecture at 11 a.m. in the Charles V. Park Library Auditorium. w Yoga Moves is at 6 p.m. at the Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush, 4026 Michigan St.
city received four inches of rain in three hours. Lawrence said that flood impacted 39 campus buildings. The final request pertaining to flood damage requests $500,000 to transfer disposed rubberized flooring taken from the Events Center originally transferred to the Brent Run Landfill in Montrose. If approved, it will be sent to the Environmental Quality Landfill in Rawsonville. The flooring, which was removed after the June 3 flood, was determined to be hazardous waste and it must be relocated from Montrose. The claims management process requires CMU pay contractors directly for their services or goods, before being reimbursed by the insurance company for its expenses. Faculty contract The board will also vote
whether to give University President George Ross authority to ratify and sign a collective bargaining agreement with members of the Union of Teaching Faculty. Dan Kukuk, organizer for the American Federation of Teachers Michigan, said the bargaining process will begin by the end of fall. Union members voted by a margin greater than 3 to 1 for union representation Aug. 20 after a year-long campaign. “Non-tenured faculty did not have the opportunity to negotiate so we worked for over a year to have that election and we won overwhelmingly,” Kukuk said. “Now we are moving on in the bargaining process.” Temporary faculty want to bargain terms of job security, health insurance, salary and several other conditions of employment with the university, he said.
Leah Sefton/staff photographer
Wayland junior Spencer Winthrop Grubbs sits outside of Moore Hall smoking a corn cob pipe in the warm weather Tuesday afternoon. “A couple of friends found this for me,” Spencer said. “It’s good, and on great days like this, it’s necessary.”
w Meet with the Recruiter for majors or minors in Accounting, Finance, Management Information Systems and Computer related areas from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Bovee University Center Rotunda.
Lewis | continued from 1A
Lewis is especially proud of other bookings, including the alternative rock band “We The Kings,” who are set to perform Oct. 10. Other upcoming shows include stand-up comedian Nick Swardson — best known for his appearance in the 2006 film “The Benchwarmers” — and actor Verne Troyer. Stand-up comedy is a par-
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 14
ticular interest of Lewis’. “Every time I leave a comedy show, everyone’s smiling and having a good time,” he said. Lewis is doing well with his duties as Program Board president, said Rebecca Sarkozi, RSO member and Big Rapids sophomore. “He’s doing a pretty good job this year,” she said. “(He’s) working with the eboard a lot to get general members a lot more excited about working with it.” studentlife@cm-life.com
Broomfield Road to be partially closed Friday through Sunday By Emily Pfund Senior Reporter
Eastbound Broomfield Road will be closed to through traffic between West Campus and East Campus drives this weekend as work is carried out on underground sewer piping. The road closure will begin 6 a.m. Friday and remain in effect until 7 p.m. Sunday. Traffic will be rerouted through West Campus Drive along the southern athletic complex. Westbound Broomfield will remain open, as well as Eastbound Broomfield to His House Church and parking lot 61 on the west side of
the Student Activity Center. Workers will be installing large diameter storm water pipes in order to handle larger volumes of water, said Steve Lawrence, associate vice president of Facilities Management. “Due to the amount of existing underground utilities in the area, it is necessary to cross Broomfield Road to connect to the proper storm water manholes located in the median,” Lawrence said in an e-mailed statement. The project has an estimated $180,000 cost associated with it, he said, but could increase if unforseen conditions underground come about.
Work is being conducted on the piping systems in response to the Aug. 11 flood that damaged several campus buildings. “The Aug. 11 flood raised questions about the capacity of existing storm water sewers around the Events Center,” Lawrence said. “With completion of the redesign, installation needs to progress as soon as possible before normal fall rains begin.” The SAC, Rose Arena and all other athletic facilities can be accessed via East Campus Drive. university@cm-life.com
WEATHER FORECAST Today High 71/Low 57 PM Sun
Thursday High 84/Low 66 Thunder Storms
20 percent chance of precipitation
Friday
50 percent chance of precipitation
Saturday
High 68/Low 45 Showers
High 62/Low 46 Partly Cloudy
40 percent chance of precipitation 20 percent chance of precipitation
3 Day Kickoff Event!
Making Public Management Work in the
Global Economy:
4HURSDAY 3EPTEMBER s PM Griffin Policy Forum Plachta Auditorium, Warriner Hall
Moderator Dr. Alex Himelfarb, Director, Glendon School of Public and International Affairs
Panelists
Mark Gaffney, President, Michigan AFL-CIO Frederick W. Hoffman, Former Vice President of Government Relations, Chrysler, LLC Greg Main, President and CEO, Michigan Economic Development Corporation H.E. Marco Nobili, Consul General of Italy in Detroit Dr. Roy B. Norton, Consul General of Canada in Detroit Rich Studley, President and CEO, Michigan Chamber of Commerce
chsbs.cmich.edu/griffin CMU is an AA/EO institution (see cmich.edu/aaeo). For ADA accommodations call 989-774-3442 at least one week in advance.
September 23 - 25, 2010
Central Michigan University
As policy issues grow more complex, greater collaboration is required between policymakers and administrators at various levels and across national borders. This conference, which includes experts from Canada, Italy and the U.S., will provide public managers with strategies to address the challenges they face in the global economy.
Registration
Although the Griffin Policy Forum and following Academic Conference are free and open to the public, please register in advance by contacting CMU’s Political Science Department at 989-774-7415 or paconf@ cmich.edu. Please indicate whether you will attend the conference, forum or both.
Event Sponsors
Friday, September 24 Public Administration Conference Park Library Auditorium Morning Session (9 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.) s 0ANEL ) #ROSS "ORDER 2EGIONAL #OLLABORATION Business, Labor and Government s 0ANEL )) Financial Regulation after the Global Bubble Burst Afternoon Session (2 – 6 p.m.) s 0ANEL ))) Public/Private Partnerships in Green Economies s 0ANEL )6 'OVERNANCE AND !CCOUNTABILITY in the Global Economy
Saturday, September 25
The Griffin Policy Forum and Academic Conference are hosted by the Robert and Marjorie Griffin Endowed Chair in American Government, the College of Humanities and Social and Behavioral Sciences, and the Department of Political Science at Central Michigan University.
9:30 a.m. - Noon Workshop: Fostering Global Awareness in Public Administration
The conference is also supported by the Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada.
Graduate Education, Strosacker Room, Park Library
inside life Central Michigan Life
3A
Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010
Bandwidth allocation increased; students still hit cap New limit of 30 gigabytes put in place spring semester Michael L. Hoffman Staff Reporter
CMU has taken a big step in providing students with more bandwidth allowance than in years past. Near the end of the 2010 spring semester the CMU
the year.” The 2010 spring semester saw an average of 66 students hitting the bandwidth cap according to data from the Help Desk. But so far this semester the average number of students reaching the limit has dropped to around 39 a week. “We haven’t really advertised it,” McDowell said. “We just did it because we thought it was necessary.” Kole Taylor, technical writer for the Office of In-
IT Department upgraded the bandwidth from seven gigabytes a week to 30 gigabytes. Help Desk Manager Jeffrey McDowell said the university decided to upgrade the amount of allotted bandwidth per week because of the evolution of how students are using the Internet. “A lot of people were hitting the upload limit when we had it at five and seven gigs,” he said. “But when we upgraded to 30, the number dropped dramatically over
isabella county
formation Technology, said the most common reasons people go over the limit are programs like iChat, Skype, peer-to-peer programs and streaming online videos. “A lot people don’t realize it, but iChat uses a ton of bandwidth,” Taylor said. “Your computer is constantly uploading a new image so it’s a drain on the bandwidth.” Bronson sophomore Benjamin Nolin said he has reached the limit several times and has been kicked off of the network.
“I was watching way too many TV shows,” he said. “But since I’ve lived off campus, I haven’t had a problem.” Tyler Wykoff said he has had problems with the bandwidth as well. “It has kicked me off a few times for using webcams,” the Commerce Township freshman said. “It sucks too because I chat with my brother in Puerto Rico and my girlfriend back home.” The Help Desk does have what McDowell called “one
get out of jail free card.” “If a student goes over they can call the Help Desk and we will reset the bandwidth for them,” McDowell said. But he said students can only do that once and if they ever exceed it again they will be out of luck. Students can check their current bandwidth usage on the Help Desk website at https://helpdesk.oit.cmich. edu/resnet/login.asp. studentlife@cm-life.com
‘comedy is an interesting beast’
Proposed budget available on web Comissioner vote removes one-third of position from BAYANET By Ryan Czachorski Senior Reporter
The proposed Isabella County 2011 fiscal year budget is online today for review by citizens. The budget went through its final review at Tuesday’s board of commissioners work session. The board also announced a public budget hearing at 7:05 p.m next Tuesday, Sept. 28 at the Isabella County Building for county residents to voice their concerns. “We’ll have a public hearing for any final input,” said Chairman David Ling. “It will be followed by a public vote to approve the budget.” The county’s expenses are not covered by their revenues. A combination of money from the fund balance, delinquent tax fund and the county’s contingency may cover the discrepancy. A balanced budget must be adopted by Oct. 1. The budget can be accessed through the county’s website, www.isabellacounty.org. Physical copies of the budget are available in room 220 of the Isabella County Building, 200 N. Main St. Requests for allocations of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe’s 2 percent fund were finalized at the work session. The county, along with other governmental agencies, receives 2 percent of all casino and resort profits. Commissioners ranked potential programs based on their collective priorities. The group eliminated the Special Community Event Support Package and the Groundwater Protection Program from consideration. Remaining programs will be forwarded to the tribe, but will not necessarily receive funding based on the board’s recommendations. Some of the programs are sheriff vehicles, shires A county | 6a
Photos by victoria zegler/staff photographer
Ken Evans, 50, of Florida performs his stand-up act, engaging the audience Thursday night at CoCo Joe’s, 4855 E. Blue Grass Rd. “My favorite thing of all is to speak my mind and make people laugh,” Evans said. “It heals them, it really does.”
Laughing It Up National, local talent perform weekly at Coco Joe’s By Maria Amante | Staff Reporter
C
olin Howard rolls out the laughs every Thursday. The Grand Rapids senior hosts and jokes in a weekly show — Coco Joe’s Comedy Night — featuring locally- and nationally-known stand-up comedians. Howard began participating in improvisational comedy two and a half years ago and wants to pursue stand-up comedy professionally. He said he likes coming to Coco Joe’s Beach House, 4855 E. Bluegrass Road, to “do his thing.” “I’m not boxed in,” he
said. “It’s great to have five to 10 minutes each week to get things off my head.” Coco Joe’s hosts the show at 9 p.m. Thursdays. Professional comedians such as Ken Evans of Florida, Martin Bulter of Detroit, Chris Hegedus of Cleveland and Tommy Thompson of Minnesota
have all generated laughs from the crowd. “Comedy is an interesting beast,” Hegedus said. “It’s fun to be challenged (by the audience).” Mount Pleasant senior Michelle Murray said the event with Hegedus and Thompson was funny, and she would definitely come again. She said it is interesting how they bring in nationally famous comedians, though she did have one criticism. “I hate how all these comedians talk about is sex and drugs,” she said. “But for the most part, it was really funny and lots of fun to see.” The comedy nights were hosted at Soaring Eagle Casino’s Boomers Nightclub,
until it moved to Coco Joe’s this year, Howard said. He said Coco Joe’s gives a different experience for college students. “If people want to look for something unique, you know, you have all these bars, pitcher nights and all
that, but Coco Joe’s is the only consistent comedy venue in town,” Howard said. “People like to laugh and enjoy themselves, Coco Joe’s gives them that opportunity.” metro@cm-life.com
Speedsters get around campus on wheels Students use alternatives to cut travel time Michael L. Hoffman Staff Reporter
Victoria Zegler/staff photographer
Rochester Hills sophomore Ben Smith rides his longboard to class Thursday afternoon outside of Brooks Hall. “I have been longboarding for about three weeks, all day, everyday,” Smith said. “There’s a different rhythm with a longboard that allows you to easily flow with the ground when you’re cruising from place to place.”
You wake up at 9:55 a.m. and have class in five minutes on the far side of campus. Don’t panic, just grab your longboard — at least, that’s what Christian Matthews does. The Rochester sophomore often rides his longboard from his room in Barnes Hall to his classes.
He is one of many students who have begun to use bicycles, skateboards and roller skates to speed across the university. “It’s a lot faster,” he said. “No matter where you are on campus, it only takes you five minutes to get anywhere.” Fellow longboarder Jordan Kantola said he also rides to save time getting from one place to another on campus. “It is so much quicker than walking. I can get anywhere I need to really fast,” said Kantola, a Ravenna junior. He said it just makes trav-
Eric Dresden, Managing Editor | news@cm-life.com | 989.774.4343
eling campus easier in general. But faster isn’t always better in Susan Cosby’s opinion. The temporary faculty member of English language and literature prefers not only to walk between campus buildings, but also from her apartment, which is located relatively close to campus, she said. “Walking also helps me to get my thoughts in order,” she said. “To get in the ‘zone’ if you will.” Travel Safely The relationship between
pedestrian and higher speed travelers can be a strained one at best, Kantola said. Walkers are typically unaware of approaching cruisers and, though difficulties are rare, sometimes switching to the bike lane on Washington Street doesn’t help his chances. “In the street you have to worry about more things, cars, bikes and other people,” he said. He thinks the university could do more to help out non-traditional travelers — if the bike lanes in the
A wheels | 6A
voices Central Michigan Life
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Wednesday, Sept. 22, 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 | CMU Board of Trustees must not make any more major decisions unannounced
Trustee trustworthiness
T
he CMU Board of Trustees should put its best food forward with regard to students, the media and the public during its first meeting of the academic year.
In the past two years, trustees have approved the College of Medicine and appointed University President George Ross at meetings without announcing the intention to do so or listing these on the agenda prior to the meetings. This behavior skirts on the edges of what is permitted by the Open Meetings Act and projects
an enmity and antagonism toward both the media and interested or involved members of the university and community. The board needs to stop trying to “pull one over” on the people affected by its decisions and be open and honest with how they are steering the future of this public institution. These major decisions were
made essentially without the opportunity for public input or dissent, when the purpose of public bodies being required by law to meet in public is to allow for that kind of input. It takes power away from the students and the taxpayers that fund this university. The search process for a university president is exempt from the Open Meetings Act, but they did not announce a new president would be selected until halfway through the Dec. 3, 2009 meeting at which Ross was appointed. Never was it announced a decision was finalized or who the finalists in consideration were.
This is not the way a public institution should handle milestone decisions. The board needs to operate and make decisions openly to give the public the opportunity to offer input and it needs to start immediately, at tomorrow’s meeting. The meeting agenda released online earlier this week does not include any major announcements, decisions or major additions that could be likened to the College of Medicine. If, for one reason or another, the contents of the meeting include a major decision not included on the agenda, the seeds of distrust may be sewn too deeply to be removed during the tenure of any of the current trustees.
KIM PATISHNOCK [CENTRAL SQUARE]
Kyle Goodall Columnist
Hold on to your butts Walking back to the Towers, I passed a trash receptacle and spotted an empty cigarette pack carelessly left on the ground. It was not an unusual sight to see, but what shocked me is that I picked up five more empty packs before I could even make it to the train tracks. From then on, with every other step that I took to the Towers I spotted two new cigarette butts on either side of me. I was not surprised to read that one of the nation’s leading community action organizations, Keep America Beautiful, Inc., found that only 10 percent of cigarette butts are properly put away in ash receptacles. I asked 13 smokers outside different Towers’ entrances to get their perspective. Eleven said it is an issue of laziness. 3 admittedly laughed about their lazy habit, saying that it’s easier to toss cigarettes on the ground than worry about where they end up. There seems to be a smoker’s myth that cigarette butts will disappear if they’re tossed on the ground. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s research show that most cigarette filters are made with cellulose acetate, a form of plastic that does not rapidly biodegrade. This poses long-lasting environmental problems when they’re tossed on the ground. Evidence from both of the above sources indicates that cigarette butts present a biohazard to our water supply. However, I found most of the ash receptacles were still filled to the rim with butts. I applaud CMU’s facilities management and beautification for keeping campus clean, but perhaps the ash receptacles could be emptied more frequently, or more of them could be placed around campus. The littering issue comes down to personal responsibility. There are cigarette sandboxes on almost every outdoor trash receptacle on campus.
[ Letters]
Gubernatorial debates versus town halls the direct answers given at Rick’s town halls. He listens to the voting public and gives straight forward answers, letting us know his thought process. I wish Virg would be as open to talk to all of the voters in the state as Rick does. Rick has not forgotten about Northern Michigan and the UP.”
Comments on the story Sept. 20 story “Debates in gubernatorial race unnecessary”: Chips said: 1:01 p.m. on Sept. 21 “Obviously you aren’t a student at CMU who went to the library auditorium while he was here. I’m pretty sure all of those people weren’t ‘invited guests’ who were ‘identified republican voters’.”
Major said: 8:18 p.m. on Sept. 20
Timothy Weiler said: 12:12 p.m. on Sept. 21
“Well that is what Rick Snyder town halls are, Great Forums and the questions are not prescreened.
“I truly enjoy the honestly and
if Virg wants to be heard he should hold his own. Also if the media did more reporting on the issues vs bickering we would not have this issue would we” Timbankful said: 9:36 on Sept. 20 “I disagree. It is important for the electorate to see how the candidates perform under intense pressure. Although I do not believe what is said or not said during a debate should be though of as the primary reason in making a candidate selection for governor.”
C M Y o u What do you think of the possibilty of government-provided nationwide Wi-Fi Internet?
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.
“I think that would be sweet. It would save people a lot of money and be really nice.”
“I think it’s a cool idea, but I bet someone is going to find something that’s wrong with it.”
Ryan Aneed,
Cecilia Martinez,
Jack Distel,
Livonia senior
Detroit senior
Canton junior
“I think it would be a really good idea. It would make life a lot easier for people.”
“I think that would be very good for college students.” Alyce Garcia,
Holt senior
jeff smith/staff photographer
Central Michigan Life 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 Asso-
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Nathan Inks Columnist
GOP sabotage Nov. 2 will be a good day for Republicans — there is no doubt about that. But leave it to the GOP to take what should be a phenomenal year electorally and start ruining races one by one. Specifically, in the past week, Republicans have jeopardized what should have been two strong Republican victories: The Senate races in Delaware and Alaska. The Senate race in Alaska was not so much the party’s fault as much as the fault of sore primary loser Senator Lisa Murkowski, a moderate who lost her primary race to conservative Tea Party candidate Joe Miller. Murkowski announced that she would run as a write-in candidate, putting Miller in jeopardy of holding the Republican seat. For the good of the party, Murkowski should drop out and endorse Miller. In Delaware, conservative Tea Party candidate Christine O’Donnell beat Congressman and former Governor Mike Castle for the GOP nomination to challenge Chris Coons. Castle, who had been labelled one of the most liberal Republicans in the House of Representatives lead Coons by at least 10 percent according to recent polls, whereas O’Donnell trails by more than 10 percent according to all recent polls, including one poll conducted after the primary. Here, the conservative wing of the party, which was comprised of less than 5 percent of the total number of registered voters in the state, voted on principle while sacrificing electability. If O’Donnell could win in November, I would have whole-heartedly backed her in the primary, but voting for the conservative does the GOP no good if that candidate does not end up getting seated in the Senate. A moderate Republican who, according to the American Conservative Union, votes conservative 52.49 percent of the time is better than a hardcore liberal such as Coons. If the Republicans are going to make political gains in the future, they will have to realize that there are certain areas of the country, such as the Northeast, where moderates need to be nominated if the GOP is going to take those seats. Luckily, it does not appear that Republicans were going to take control of the Senate anyway, but if the Delaware race does end up costing them the majority, those who backed O’Donnell in the primary “on principle” will be responsible for allowing the Democrats to stay in control. Voting on principle is honorable, but in America’s twoparty system, it can prove to be impractical at times, and electability of candidates must be taken into account.
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Central Michigan Life || Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010 || 5A
cm-life.com/category/sports
[Sports]
FOOTBALL|
volleyball
CMU begins MAC play Thursday at EMU
continued from 1A
Chippewas shake off injuries for 11-3 Eagles
ball fell into Petrucci’s hands. And then, in front of his mom, dad, brother Pat and a couple of his friends, he ran. “I was just going as fast as I could,� he said. “To be honest, I thought I was going to get run down and caught.� He didn’t, and the Chippewas defense had their first touchdown of the year. “We knew that if he was given the opportunity he would step up to the plate,� Enos said. “He’s played very well the past two weeks, is very capable and works very hard.� One of the first to greet Petrucci on the sidelines was fellow junior linebacker Armond Staten, who recorded a team-high and career-high 13 tackles in CMU’s win Saturday, playing most of the game as he continues to work to secure his spot as starting linebacker. Staten “I didn’t even know about it until the reporters told me afterword,� he said of the milestone. “I was just doing my job.� After seeing limited time in his first two years, Staten came into camp with a starting job this fall before injuries derailed him. “He was up-and-down in the fall and nicked up,� Enos said. “He ended up losing his job but to his credit, Armond didn’t pout or anything. He just kept working. He’s a team guy and a hard worker.� And as of Tuesday night, he’s listed atop the team’s depth chart at strong side linebacker. “Compared to when I first got here,� he said, “I’m a completely different person and player.� Tipton Just like Zurlon Tipton. Tipton, a redshirt freshman from Detroit, was injured on a kickoff return in CMU’s game against Alcorn State last season. He was granted a medical redshirt by the NCAA, and worked last season to rehab his injured left wrist, which at one time saw a bone popping
By Nick Conklin Staff Reporter
File photo Katie Thoresen/staff photographer
Junior linebacker Mike Petrucci runs the ball into the end zone on a 43-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter of CMU’s 52-14 win against Eastern Michigan on Saturday at Rynearson Stadium in Ypsilanti.
out of his arm, and another time, had pins screwed into that bone. “I feel good now,� he said. “Especially coming back to play football. Sitting around wasn’t going to help anything, so I just got in the weight room everyday and got stronger.� It’s shown. He busted two runs for 10 yards, including a 20-yard touchdown, the first of his career, in the fourth quarter. “It felt real good,� he said of getting back on the field. “When you’re out for a year, you step out there and it feels real good. That touchdown was just a plus.� Enos, who had to suspend Tipton for a violation of team policy earlier this season, sees the running back getting better each day.
“The sky’s the limit for him potentially,� Enos said. “The more he plays, the more he’ll get better and we think he’ll be a very, very good back by the end of the season.� So whether it’s Armond Staten, Mike Petrucci, Zurlon Tipton or any of the secondand-third string cast of characters that make up the infrastructure of a college football team, the backups should be ready. “Like I tell the guys,� Enos said. “You’re going to be given an opportunity at some point and you just want to make sure you continue to prepare yourself, so when you get that opportunity you are successful.� Until then, these guys know their roles sports@cm-life.com
With a 6-6 finish to their non-conference schedule, the Central Michigan women’s volleyball team looks to get over the hump at 7 p.m. Thursday when it takes on Eastern Michigan in Ypsilanti. Coming off a tough nonconference slate that saw the Chippewas compete against Wisconsin, Purdue and Northern Iowa — all losses — CMU head coach Erik Olson said he was pleased with how his team handled their non-league matchups. Olson said he knows with the MidAmerican Conference schedule at hand, his team should be more than prepared to Erik Olson face their first opponent. “We’ve played a tough schedule with never a fully healthy roster,� he said. “With that said, we have to get it going in the MAC.� The first test will be against the Eagles, who are riding an impressive 11-3 record, with big wins against Michigan State and Davidson. Freshman Paige Roback looks to lead EMU following her third double digit performance in kills and digs. Also on the radar for the Chippewas is sophomore outside hitter Rachel Iaquaniello. She notched 20 kills on her way to a .200 hitting percentage in the Eagle’s 3-2 win against Michigan State. Although EMU brings some strong athletes into the match, Olson said it remains to been seen exactly what they will bring into
league play. “They have a freshman on the right side that looks pretty good, and they’re a little better and more confident than last year,� Olson said. Injury bug CMU’s health has raised some flags in the recent week as it was forced to compete with only five hitters during last weekend’s tournament. The last minute call forced Olson, and the team, to make some adjustments to their system. Olson was pleased with the way that his team made adjustments and feels that can be seen as a positive as they work into their MAC schedule. “We were in a tough situation last weekend,� he said. “We found out within an hour and half of practice that we were going into that weekend with five hitters. The tough part on us is as we get a little healthier, we’re going to be tweaking our system.� The team will look to seniors Lauren Krupsky and Lisa Johnson, both of which had a strong weekend in the College of Charleston Invitational. Behind her 29 kill weekend, Krupsky finished the weekend as the new-
MAC Volleyball Standings West: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
N. Illinois E. Michigan Ball State W. Michigan Central Michigan Toledo
13-0 11-3 10-2 9-4 6-6 5-6
East: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Buffalo Akron Ohio Kent State Miami Bowling Green Kent State
11-4 8-4 8-5 7-8 5-8 5-9 7-8
est member of the 1,000 kill club, marking the 13th CMU player to accumulate 1,000 kills in a career. Johnson helped the Chippewas to victory against North Florida with behind 18 digs and a total of 35 on the weekend. The team has a short turn around following Thursday night’s game, returning home to face Ohio University at 7 p.m. Saturday in its home opener at Finch Fieldhouse. sports@cm-life.com
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Central Michigan Life
6A || Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010 || Central Michigan Life
wheels | continued from 3A
streets were kept free of debris it would be easier to get around. “I’ve wiped out pretty hardcore,” Kantola said. “(The University) should keep the streets clear. Especially at night because there’s gravel and sticks.” Petoskey freshman Brandon
county | continued from 3a
victoria zegler/staff photographer
West Cosgrove, the director of Project Puente, a non-profit promoting border immersion programs, shows students ‘Immigrants and National Values,’ a presentation relating to Hispanic Heritage month Monday night at Plachta Auditorium. “We can solve the immigration issue by giving something new a chance,” Cosgrove said. “We can do it by treating others with dignity and respect.”
Immigration reform in America a must in near future, speaker says West Cosgrove delivers Hispanic Heritage Month keynote address By Ben Harris Staff Reporter
The audience in Plachta Auditorium was full of questions for West Cosgrove the moment he finished his speech Monday night. About 90 people attended the national immigration analyst’s presentation entitled “Immigrants and National Values,” emphasizing immigration reform. Cosgrove has worked in El Paso, Texas, for 15 years serving as the assistant director for Project Puente, which aims to educate the public about issues concerning the border. “I think if we can inject knowledge and understanding to the situation, we can do a good thing,” Cosgrove said. His presentation explained the history of immigration and
immigration law. He showed statistics involving increased border security costs, along with the tax contributions of undocumented workers. The kick-off Hispanic Heritage Month event was hosted by Minority Student Services. Cosgrove was selected as a speaker not only because of his relevance to students and to the community, but because immigration is a critical national issue, said Keisha Janney, assistant director of MSS. “I really thought he brought some of the facts about immigration to the audience,” Janney said. Many of the questions asked afterward concerned Cosgrove’s opinion on the speed and scope of new laws passed for immigration reform. “I am in favor of incremental change,” Cosgrove said. Midland sophomore Keegan Swihart said he was impressed with the ideas and opinions Cosgrove had to offer to the audience. “He was great, I spent the summer with him and loved it,” Swihart said. “I really want to
cm-life.com/category/news
[News]
and adult drug treatment court. The tribe will review the requests of public school systems, CMU and the city of Mount Pleasant, among others. “They have their own committee at the Tribal Council,” said Commissioner Roger Trudell. “They decide what they want to fund.”
Furgeson usually skateboards around campus, but he also thinks biking is a quicker alternative to walking. Furgeson said people usually watch out when he’s on his bike or skateboard, but he “slows down for people because (he) doesn’t want to be cut off.” “It’s so much faster,” Furgeson said. Matthews had a suggestion for pedestrians on campus to increase everyone’s safety: let
the speedsters steer around you, when people try to move is when accidents happen. Cosby agreed, saying cruisers need to be wary of pedestrians and avoid them as best as they can — instead of relying on dangerous last second dodges. “If it is unacceptable for a car (to run people down),” Cosby said. “It should be for other speed enhancers as well.”
Other business The Bay Area Narcotics Enforcement Team will lose onethird of a full-time position, after the board decided to not put any general fund money toward the remaining position, said County Administrator Tim Dolehanty. Dolehanty said it will save the county approximately $30,000 and BAYANET can supplement the remaining one-third of a position if they wish. The money will not necessarily go to another program. “We still have an issue where
our expenses are more than our revenues,” Dolehanty said. The board also renewed their contract with ACS Government Services, Inc. to provide hardware and software support for the next five years, starting Oct. 1, 2010. If the county had looked elsewhere, the cost of running both systems simultaneously and re-training employees was estimated at $175,000. “This system is the nerve system of the county,” Dolehanty said.
studentlife@cm-life.com
metro@cm-life.com
encourage students to go down to the border and help out with these kinds of things.” Cosgrove also gave suggested solutions to border problems and held a question-andanswer session following his speech. One solution he offered was supporting companies who promise to pay their workers livable wages, even if the workers are undocumented. Another proposed solution was allowing companies to hire as many migrant workers as they need, but only after the company tries and fails to hire American citizens. But no matter what action is taken, Cosgrove said, change is vital. “Both sides of the argument agree that the system is broken,” Cosgrove said. He also stressed the importance of understanding the issue and delivered the stories of several migrant workers and their working conditions. “We don’t have to be ‘us versus them’,” he said.
y a d n Su university@cm-life.com
October210 010 AT FINCH FIELDHOUSE
Doors at 6pm Showtime at 7pm
TICKETS: $10 STUDENTS $15 PUBLIC
Contact CMU Program Board 774-3174 or email cmu-pb@cmich.edu for more information
Breathe owl Breathe | Is the Michigan band’s new album worth a listen? 2B
B
campus vibe Central Michigan Life
Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010
[cm-life.com/category/vibe]
Gaming season heats up By Ryan Taljonick Senior Reporter
The holiday season is still the focal point of video gaming’s year despite the medium’s maturation from child’s play to serious entertainment contender. So why fight it? Instead, consider this list of looming releases as the gaming season ramps up for wrapping-papertearing Armageddon.
Call of Duty: Black Ops w PC, X360, PS3 w First-person shooter w Competitive/cooperative multiplayer w Rating pending w Releases Nov. 9 If you can’t get enough Call of Duty action, rest assured: the developers at Treyarch have promised to deliver. “Call of Duty: Black Ops” purports to offer a much grittier environment and a more
story-oriented campaign than previous installments. The multiplayer formula has been reworked: new weapons, equipment and upgrades are purchased with in-game currency instead of being unlocked through a point-based advancement system. New online modes are available, including wager matches that allow players to put their money where their mouth is by wagering their in-game currency on match performances. Now you can
not only be verbally threatened by foulmouthed 11-year-olds online but have them take your lunch money, too. As for the return of the zombie mode made popular by “Call of Duty: World at War,” rumors are circulating that such a mode will only be included in the prestige and hardened editions of “Black Ops,” though nothing has been set in stone at this point. It’s possible any zombie modes will be released as downloadable content.
Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood
w PS3, X360 w Action-adventure w Single player, competitive multiplayer w M for mature w Releases Nov. 16
Desmond Miles makes his return in “Asassin’s Creed: Brotherhood,” using his newly acquired fighting techniques to bring the hurt to those nefarious modern-day Knights Templar. Players will also return to Rome through the eyes of Ezio Auditore using the Animus 2.0, continuing right where “Assassin’s Creed II” left off. The game’s combat system has been revamped to allow for faster-paced fighting with several offensive abilities, making combat less reliant on counterattacks. Players will also be tasked with obtaining money and rebuilding the city of Rome, similar to the village of Monteriggioni in its predecessor. Legions of assassins can be recruited and trained to assist Ezio in his tasks. Multiplayer will be available as a series first, allowing players to engage in a cat-andmouse-style manhunt online.
w PC w Massively multiplayer online role-playing game w Competitive / cooperative multiplayer w T for teen w Releases: TBA 2010
World of Warcraft: Cataclysm
If you have any friends who play “WoW,” expect not to see them for a few months following the latest expansion’s release. Online giant “World of Warcraft” will see the release of its latest expansion, “Cataclysm,” some time this year. With the fall of the Lich King, a new evil has arisen in the world of Azeroth, threatening its very existence. “Cataclysm” will feature an entirely rebuilt Azeroth, hundreds of new quests, weapons and items. Two new races, the Goblins for the horde and the Worgen for the alliance, will be introduced in addition to a variety of new class/race combinations and an increased level cap to 85. Additionally, flying mounts are no longer limited to the Outlands and Northrend and new aquatic mounts will be available for underwater zones. Character stats, professions and talents will also receive a complete overhaul, and archeology, a new secondary profession, will join the host of productive pursuits.
Check out more game Previews, 2B
Inside w Check out a review of ‘Halo: Reach’, 3B
w w w w w
Wii Platformer Single player Rating pending Releases Oct. 17
Kirby’s Epic Yarn
Everyone’s favorite cute and cuddly enemy-ingester is back after a several-year vacation from home gaming consoles. “Kirby’s Epic Yarn” features Kirby in a new world made entirely of yarn, which players must use to solve puzzles and defeat opponents. Kirby’s traditional ability to inhale enemies and copy their abilities has been removed from this installment of the Kirby franchise, requiring players to instead use a whip-like yarn attack. The environment itself is based on an animated world of cloth and textiles, making for a genuinely unique “Kirby” experience. If you’re a classic gaming fan, “Kirby’s Epic Yarn” will likely be a shoe-in for your game collection. w w w w w
PS3 Racing Competitive multiplayer Rating pending Releases Nov. 2
Gran Turismo 5
After more than five years of development, PlayStation’s most popular racing simulator series will finally hit the streets once again. “Gran Turismo 5” comes packed with more than 1,000 licensed cars and more than 70 different tracks. A number of new features have been added to the game, including a detailed damage model, weather effects, a course creator and, for the first time ever in the series, a competitive online racing mode that supports up to 16 players. Following the old saying, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” GT5 will stick to the features that made the franchise a classic, such as its realistic driving simulation and vehicle handling mechanics and its tendency to push the PlayStation’s graphic capabilities to its limits.
2B || Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010 || Central Michigan Life
NEW STUFF
Games | continued from 1B
Home Theatre 1. “Iron Man 2” 2. “Robin Hood” 3. “Spartacus: Blood and Sand: Season 1”
CDs 1. “Hands All Over” Maroon 5 2. “You Get What You Give” Zac Brown Band 3. “Wake Up!” John Legend & the Roots
Video Games 1. “Final Fantasy XIV” (PC) 2. “F1: 2010” (PS3, X360) 3. “New Carnival Games” (Wii)
TOP FIVES Box Office: 1. “The Town” $23.8 million 2. “Easy A” $17.7 million 3. “Devil” $12.3 million 4. “Resident Evil: Afterlife” $10 million 5. “Alpha and Omega” $9.1 million
Singles: 1. “Teenage Dream” Katy Perry 2. “Love The Way You Lie” Eminem feat. Rihanna 3. “Just The Way You Are” Bruno Mars 4. “Dynamite” Taio Cruz 5. “I Like It” Enrique Iglesias feat. Pitbull
Albums: 1. “Kaleidoscope Heart” Sara Bareilles 2. “Recovery” Eminem 3. “NOW 35” Various Artists 4. “Teenage Dream” Katy Perry 5. “Asylum” Disturbed
Medal of Honor w PC, PS3, X360 w First-person shooter w Competitive multiplayer w M for mature w Releases Oct. 12 After a three-year hiatus, Electronic Arts’ “Medal of Honor” series is no longer MIA. “Medal of Honor” reboots the classic World War II series by putting players in the midst of the war in Afghanistan in its single player campaign and offers a competitive multiplayer component similar to those found in its first-person shooter brethren. Plenty of weapons, attachments and customization options are available as players gain experience points for winning matches and fragging opponents, but the question remains whether or not “Medal of Honor” can distinguish itself from some of the recent “Call of Duty” games. Fallout: New Vegas” w PC, PS3, X360 w Role-playing game w Single player w M for mature w Releases Oct. 19 The next game in the “Fallout” saga takes place three years after the events of “Fallout 3” and will surely consume countless hours of anyone who enjoyed the pre-
cm-life.com/category/vibe quel. Set in post-apocalyptic Las Vegas, “Fallout: New Vegas” promises a gritty environment, plenty of character customization and a chance to create the ultimate Vegas bachelor pad. In addition to a whole new world to explore, new weapons, items and modifications have been added to the game. A reputation system has also been built in, allowing players to buddy-up with some factions and declare war on others. For those itching for an extreme challenge, a hardcore mode will also be available, requiring players to balance survival with advancement. It’s time to kick some V.A.T.S. and take names — or just blow everything to pieces. Rock Band 3 w PS3, X360, Wii w Music game w Multiplayer w T for teen w Releases Oct. 26 Music simulation games like Rockband have given air guitarists and drummers a chance to become the real thing, at least until they quit playing. “Rockband 3” brings 83 new songs to the mix in addition to a keyboard controller and a vocal harmony feature, allowing bands to expand their repertoire and become masters of musical mayhem. Offering a diverse set list with bands like Smash Mouth, Beach Boys and The Smiths, as well as musicians like Ozzy Osbourne and Bob Marley, “Rockband 3” promises players a shot at the rock star lifestyle.
While I was waiting in line at Subway the other day, I noticed an upsetting trend among the general clientele. As I stood there, pondering which delicious sandwich I would have crafted for my consumption, I watched a young woman engage in a heinous and deplorable act. When asked which toppings she would like on her sub, she pointed at each ingredient, one by one, waiting until each topping was placed on her sandwich before requesting the next
Video games:
Music:
Civilization V
North by Darkstar
Ryan Taljonick Senior Reporter one. My thought process could only be described as an internal Blitzkrieg, in which my desire to cartwheel back to my apartment out of sheer frustration played the part of Poland.
The forthcoming debut album from British electronic group Darkstar is a beautiful and aching record, establishing the group as not just one of the most interesting in the electronic scene, but one of the most interesting groups in any scene. Melancholy without being depressing, heartfelt without being maudlin, “North” is a delightful and deep record that rewards repeat listens. Be on the lookout for the album on store shelves next month. -Ben Weissenborn
‘Magic Central’ a fun, matured album By Ben Weissenborn Staff Review
Michigan-based trio Breathe Owl Breathe return with a signature deep-forest sound in their fourth album, the delightful “Magic Central.” Written and recorded in the band’s log cabin, located deep within the northern Michigan woods, “Magic Central” finds the band further tightening and maturing their sound, resulting in their most solid and focused album to date. For those uninitiated, Breathe Owl Breathe plays, for the most part, quiet, reflective folk music, managing somehow to distill much of their home state’s charm and beauty into song form. Their playful and innocent approach to songwriting has always lent the band a lot of charm, making them quite accessible. “Magic Central” finds the band with just as much charm as ever, but also a newfound maturity adding a lot of depth to many of the songs. “Breathe In,” the band’s second record,
Fable III w X360 w Action RPG w Single player, cooperative w T for Teen w Releases Oct. 26 Fable fans will once again set foot in the world of Albion this fall in Lionhead Studio’s “Fable III.” As with its predecessors, the third iteration of the series allows players to be a valiant hero or a treacherous villain, helping those in need or fulfilling selfish desires. Character development is based on play style and the choices you make will affect the entire virtual world. A slew of changes and additions are being made to “Fable III,” including the possibility to become king or queen of Albion, ruling over its citizens. Taxes can be imposed on your loyal citizenry, and those who oppose you can be dealt with however you see fit. Instead of having a huge variety of weapons to choose from, players can customize base models of weapons, which will evolve as you increase your proficiency with each weapon type — players will even have a chance to trade or sell customized weapons and equipment online, making “Fable III” the most personalized installment to date. studentlife@cm-life.com
RYAN’S RANT This week’s topic: Subway Customers
BEAT WRITER PICKS “Civilization V” once again allows players to nurture a civilization from its genesis into the distant future. Players must use a variety of mechanics like diplomacy, government and military conquest to ensure their survival. Bringing tons of new features to the “Sid Meier’s Civilization” series, “Civilization V” streamlines some of the franchise’s components, allowing players more freedom and customization than ever before. The game also features modding and multiplayer elements. -Ryan Taljonick
It’s time to put down the karaoke microphone and instead sing “Crazy Train” in the comfort of your own home.
was a wistful and playful collection of quiet folk songs. “Magic Central” has plenty of these types of songs, but also features songs that deal with love, loss and insecurity, resulting in an interesting contrast. One of the album’s highlights, “Dragon,” exemplifies this contrast quite well. On its surface, “Dragon” is a silly fable about a dragon and a princess who are pen pals. What the fable thinly veils is the story of a relationship, one plagued by insecurity and adversity from outside forces. The song’s chorus, which simply repeats, “How do you stop/Loving someone?” seems almost out of place on first listen, considering the context the song establishes in its opening monologue. However, once the listener realizes that it isn’t actually a story about a dragon and a princess, the chorus really begins to pack a heavy emotional punch. “Magic Central” isn’t all heartbreak and loss, though. “Dogwalkers of the New Age,”
‘Magic Central’ by Breathe Owl Breathe
HHHH another one of the album’s highlights, is mostly about what the song suggests: a nighttime walk around a city that’s “alive.” Musically, the song is a perfect soundtrack for nocturnal wandering. A driving, shuffling beat, a lonely acoustic guitar riff, perfectly placed cello lines and some delightful vocal interplay between Micah Middaugh and Andréa Moreno-Beals set the mood for a late-night walk with a loved one. Established Breathe Owl Breathe fans (and anyone who’s seen the band live in the past year) will be pleased with the record and the uninitiated couldn’t pick a better time to join in. studentlife@cm-life.com
Subway employees are not stupid people; they can handle an up-front list of ingredients without you pointing at the toppings you want. In fact, it’s probable that Subway employees have memorized the location of nearly all the ingredients offered by the establishment. The next time you go to Subway, or any other sandwich shop, remember that it is not normal or acceptable to list your ingredients one at a time as they are placed on your sub.
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[VIBE]
leah sefton/staff photographer
Novi junior Nick Bowman takes his turn while playing the City of Thieves board game during Thursday night’s Mount Pleasant Gaming Association meeting held in the Bovee University Center’s Isabella Room. The group meets weekly at 6 p.m. on Thursdays and new members are always welcome.
Gaming not always constrained to televisions Student group focuses on playing on top tables
ple to play with,” she said, “and we have been coming back every week.” Former CMU student Ben Wolpoff said he started attending the club when he was a student and still makes the commute every week from his hometown of Chelsea. “My entire social group is still up here,” he said. “So I come up every Thursday and stay for the weekend.” One of the reasons the RSO is so unique, Wolpoff said, is many students continue coming even after leaving CMU. Shock said they are always looking to expand too. “We could definitely use more people, especially to run games,” Shock said. “Plus it’s free to join, there are no dues.”
By Michael L. Hoffman Staff Reporter
Every Thursday, Jeremy Sullivan sits down for a night of gaming. But instead of an elaborate controller, he guides his heroes with dice and cards. Sullivan is a member of the Mount Pleasant Gaming Association, a registered student organization focused on bringing people together to play different types of non-electronic games. Mount Pleasant resident Allen Shock said he helped found the club in 1986. “(MPGA) allows all kinds of games, role playing games, board games, card games,” Shock said. “But we prefer games that don’t require batteries.” He said the club offers an alternative option to students who don’t like going to the bar. Sullivan, a Grant sophomore, said he has been attending the weekly gathering since last year after his girlfriend and club president Hannah Jenkins introduced him to the club. “Last year, I played ‘Axis and Allies,’ ‘Command and Conquer’ and other games like that,” Sullivan said. “But this year, I am playing role playing games like ‘Marvel Superheroes’.” He said the weekly get-together is always full of “good times and good people.”
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That is the atmosphere Shock said he has tried to cultivate throughout the two-and-a-half decades of weekly gaming arranged by the group. MPGA’s faculty advisor Larry Brunner said he likes the group of people who come every week. “We have a really good mix of people,” the associate professor of economics said. “There are students,
people within the town and a few who commute every week.” One of those commuters is Grace Daines, who has made the trek from Midland every week with her husband Joe since January. She said after her three children went off to school, they were looking for more people to play games with. “We stumbled upon the club while looking for peo-
video game review
‘Halo: Reach’ a satisfying prequel to the Halo saga By Ryan Taljonick Senior Reporter
It’s finally time to finish the series that put Xbox on the map with a trip to the game’s longstoried but never-experienced origins. Making more than $200 million on the day it launched, “Halo: Reach,” Bungie Studio’s fifth and final contribution to the franchise, is quite possibly the best Halo experience yet. Reach’s single player campaign is a prequel to 2001’s “Halo: Combat Evolved,” which follows Noble Team, an elite group of futuristic warriors known as Spartans, tasked with defending the human race on its extraterrestrial colonies. Improvements “Reach” improves greatly upon the series’ storytelling, shedding traditionally repetitive landscapes and unclear plot progressions. In addition to gameplay improvements, several new weapons and vehicles have been added to the mix. “Reach” sports a total of 25 weapons, adding several new weapons to the arsenal found in “Halo 3” while removing and revamping others. The battle rifle, for example,
now fires in single-round shots instead of three-round bursts, while the pistol received a major damage increase, making it a viable weapon. Aside from questionable friendly AI, “Reach” offers an intense, fight-to-the-end campaign. Multiplayer However, “Reach” would not be a proper Halo game if it didn’t have an awesome multiplayer component (I’m looking at you, “ODST”). “Reach” includes all the traditional multiplayer features that have made the series so popular, as well as some new game types and modes. It is the ultimate multiplayer package, sporting incredibly refined menus making it easier than ever to join up with your friends online, whether it be to tackle the campaign in a co-op mode, or play ranked matches. Other new multiplayer modes have also been included, such as invasion: A mix of the team slayer, capture the flag and territories competitive modes. To breathe new life into the Halo multiplayer experience, a new feature known as “loadouts” has been added to the game, allowing players to cus-
tomize their play style. Loadouts provide players with different armor styles, such as a sprint ability, a jet pack or a holographic decoy, which can draw fire from your enemies. Customization As with “Halo 3,” players can customize the colors and visualization of their armor sets and emblems. In “Reach,” credits are obtained by completing challenges, achievements, campaign and multiplayer matches, and can be used to purchase new armor pieces and effects. Unfortunately, four of the 13 multiplayer maps are remakes from past Halo games, but the revamped Forge component of the game allows for more customization than ever. Players have the power to alter existing maps in hundreds of different ways and share their creations with friends through Xbox LIVE. “Halo: Reach” is a great game in almost every facet. It has the most gripping and genuinely epic single player campaign in the series and is bursting with so many multiplayer modes and features that gamers will be playing it for a long, long time. Get ready to begin the end. studentlife@cm-life.com
Central Michigan Life || Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010 || 3B
4B || Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010 || Central Michigan Life
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Games you may have missed ‘The Town’ just another cops, robbers thriller By Ryan Taljonick Senior Reporter
So you bought “Halo: Reach,” “Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty,” “Mass Effect 2,” and every Hello Kitty game in existence (for your sister of course). Staying caught up with Triple-A titles is easy, providing you have the cash flow and time to satiate your gaming habits. If you don’t mind looking in the bargain bin, here is a brief list of games worth checking out that may have slipped by you. ‘Lost Odyssey’ (X360) A throwback to PlayStation-era role-playing games, “Lost Odyssey” offers memorable, dynamic characters and a unique and powerful plot. With common RPG elements such as the traditional leveling system and a turn-based battle system, “Lost Odyssey” really shines through its writing and touching story. It is a refreshing RPG experience that will not only entertain but interest you until the very end. It is the best Japanese RPG of this console generation. ‘Valkyria Chronicles’ (PS3) Set in a fictional world based on World War II-era Europe, “Valkyria Chroni-
movie review
cles” offers players a unique take on the tactical RPG genre in a beautifully animated world. The game manages to bring a sense of freedom to its players, removing the traditional grid map associated with previous tactical RPGs. Players select which units to utilize in an overhead view, and once a unit is selected, the view shifts to a third-person angle. A unit can move and perform various actions, but each command depletes that unit’s action gauge. The game moves at an exciting pace and has a solid plot to boot. There’s a lot to love about this title, which can be found for less than $20.
Killing Floor (PC) If you think you’ve got what it takes to survive a mutant apocalypse, Tripwire Interactive’s “Killing Floor” will test your mettle and your shooter prowess. You must team up with other players online and survive against waves of monsters determined to eat your face off — which they frequently will. Teams of up to six players must survive through 10 waves of mutants, with each wave containing hundreds of monsters. By killing monsters and surviving, players accumulate money
which can be used to purchase weapons, grenades, ammo and body armor between each round. “Killing Floor” doesn’t have the best graphics around and it doesn’t offer a single player campaign, but it’s an easy bet for its $20 price tag.
Brütal Legend (PS3, X360) What do you get when you take the razor edged wit of Tim Schafer, one of the masterminds of “Monkey Island” and creator of “Grim Fandango,” several different play styles, a ridiculously packed vocal talent cast and a soundtrack full of more than a hundred metal masterpieces? You get “Brütal Legend,” a game seemingly brought to life from golden-era metal album art with swinging axes, studded armlets, hideous demons and ferocious Amazons, just to name a few. Though the game turned off some players with an unexpected real-time strategy mechanic added to its climactic battles, if you go into the metal mayhem with an open mind and a willingness to thrust your lighter in the air you’ll be hard pressed to not have a good time. studentlife@cm-life.com
By Rachael Woods Staff Reporter
The only sure thing about a sure-fire plan in a crime drama such as “The Town” is something is sure to go wrong. Ben Affleck directs and stars along Jeremy Renner in this provocative, high-budget crime drama as Doug MacRay and James Coughlin, two boys from Charlestown whose destinies intertwine with “the bank robbery capital of America.” As the movie opens, Doug and his crew don their Skeletor masks and hold up a local bank. Things seem to be going well until they realize the silent alarm has been tripped and James takes a bank employee named Claire (Rebecca Hall) hostage and they make their escape. After her harmless release, Doug volunteers to keep tabs on Claire, but before long, he can’t resist the temptation and the two strike up a relationship. Of course, she doesn’t know his true identity and he isn’t in any rush to fill her in on the finer details of his “career.” By this time, the FBI and its head, Special Agent Adam Frawley (Jon Hamm), are closing in and Doug has to make
the tough choice between his loyalty to his friends and what’s best for his future. From here on out, it is unfortunately all too easy to foresee what’s to come next. Props are deserved for Affleck, though, as his direction is impressive given the lackluster predictability of the plot and the supporting cast act as strong cornerstones to the central roles. A large downside to “The Town” is the striking similarities to Michael Mann’s Los Angeles crime saga “Heat.” You’ve got Affleck in the Robert De Niro role, Renner in the Val Kilmer role, Jon Hamm in the Al Pacino role, and Rebecca Hall with Blake Lively in a combination of the Amy Brenneman and Ashley Judd roles. To be fair, being mentioned
“The Town” w Rated: R
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in the same company with a great movie like “Heat” might be a compliment, but there were too many comparisons which left the movie with a “been there done that” type feel. On the upside, a great defense of the film was that it felt authentic. The locations, the car chases and the practical effects mixed with some genuine performances helped to create a world for these characters in which the viewer can immerse themselves for just a little while. studentlife@cm-life.com