What’s on the Web cm-life.com On
On
Video
facebook.com/cmlife TALK WITH US: What are you doing for Gentle Friday?
baseball Offense rejuvenated in 14-9 win; Oakland up next, 8A
firefighters try second jobs, 1B
EXAM SCHEDULE 2A
See what students are doing to prepare for finals next week.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Mount Pleasant, Mich.
[cm-life.com]
Tuition decrease possibly in store for GVSU Recommended reduction of 5 percent By David Veselenak Online Editor and Ryan Taljonick Staff Reporter
Nathan Kostegian/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Detroit senior Camille Jeanay works on a dress she will submit to the Runway On Monroe Fashion Competition in Grand Rapids. The grand prize winner will attend a Project Runway live casting event for his or her chance to be on the show.
dreams of the catwalk Student designer vying for spot on television hit ‘Project Runway’ By Sherri Keaton | Senior Reporter
F
ashion designer Camille Jeanay would do anything in the name of fashion. That includes crawling into a dumpster to salvage a mirror to use as material for a dress. “I was climbing up like I am a spider monkey to grab this mirror,” said the Detroit senior, who is taking the semester off but plans to be back in the fall. “I dragged it home, grabbed my chemistry goggles and hammer and smashed the crap out of it.”
It took Jeanay about two days last September to construct the dress, which includes 50 broken mirror pieces. The “mirror dress” is one of the reasons she is a competitor in Michigan’s fashion design contest, “Runway on Monroe,” where Jeanay and 19 other designers will vie for a chance to be on the television show “Project Runway.” Jeanay will present four outfits at the competition’s main event May 15 in downtown Grand Rapids’ Rosa Parks Circle. The designers need online votes, which will determine who the top five contestants are. Voters can visit runwayonmonroe.com and click the designer’s picture to vote. After narrowing down the designers, the judges will then se-
lect their top choice. “I am super excited to be in this competition,” Jeanay said. “The votes matter to put me in the top five. So regardless of how good I am, if I don’t get enough votes, I won’t make it.” The winner will be chosen May 15. Pushing for rewards Jeanay heard about the competition from a close friend who e-mailed her the information. She said the idea behind the “mirror dress” came from a Lady Gaga dress that was futuristiclooking. “I had to be creative with it. I don’t know why I put mirrors on it,” she said. Jeanay’s mother, Angela Jennings, said healthy competition is a good thing.
“I’m very proud of what she has done and all that she will do,” the Detroit resident said. “I’m totally ecstatic about this competition. I feel that this competition is propelling her to go forward and pushing her to create even greater designs.” Jeanay’s fashion line is called “Camille Jeanay.” She created it in 2003 and it includes styles ranging from streetwear to prom dresses. Her life can be hectic as the CEO of the company, a full-time student double majoring in apparel design and biomedical science and also studying prepharmacy. “Right now, my clientele has gotten bigger so toward the A fashion | 2a
Another state university may not increase tuition for the fall. Grand Valley State University President Thomas Haas testified to the House Higher Education Appropriations Committee on Tuesday and said if the state sets the minimum funding for GVSU at $3,775 per student, he will recommend tuition at the university be reduced 5 percent for next year. “When I was a graduate student at The University of Michigan, the state provided Grand Valley with 75 percent of its operating budget,” he said. “Today, that number is 20 percent.” Matt McLogan, vice president of University Relations for GVSU, said the school receives about $2,900 per student. McLogan said the minimum amount was set by the state, not the university. He attributed the decrease in funding to two sources: decreases in state Thomas Haas appropriations the last eight years and rapid enrollment. “We’re the least funded per student of the 15 state universities,” he said. Last week, Eastern Michigan University Regents voted to not increase tuition or room and board, the first time since 1986 a Michigan public university has not
A gvsu | 2a
Inside w CMU preparing different budget scenarios, 3A
International students question Gentle Friday a yearly de-stresser health policy offered by CMU No alternative plans to choose from, they say By Sherri Keaton Senior Reporter
A recent proposal for health insurance has some international students upset. Central Michigan University recently proposed a new health insurance policy according to a mass e-mail sent to international students last week. This policy will begin in fall 2010, auto-
By Randi Shaffer Staff Reporter
matically enrolling students in the “CMU Student Injury and Sickness Insurance Plan” upon registration. The insurance charges will be sent to students’ university accounts and only limited exceptions will be approved. Trinidad and Tobago graduate student Annalyn Jacob said she thinks the policy is not balanced. “(It) is unfair to force the students to have insurance without offering them alternatives,” Jacob said. “I think it was something that was rushed for one thing, because students weren’t consulted on it and I don’t think
everyone even knew about the policy.” Angela Smith, assistant director of business services for Health Services, sent a list of several requirements for the insurance policy. The policy must be in English, last a full year, have an annual deductible higher than $250, minimum of $1,000 of prescription coverage and cover labs and x-rays at a minimum of $1,500. The e-mail said the policy costs about $50 a month, depending upon the policy holder’s age. A health | 2a
Central Michigan University’s Program Board plans to counteract the stress of approaching finals with the fun of Gentle Friday. The event takes place from noon to 5 p.m. Friday in Warriner Mall. Allegan junior Steve Lewis, vice president of Program Board, said students can expect free food, games, inflatables and performances from local artists. Gentle Friday has been celebrated at Central Michigan University every spring for 43 years. “Program Board has been involved for quite a few years,” Lewis said. Dave Breed, president of Program Board, said participants
If you go...
w What: Gentle Friday w When: Noon to 5 p.m. Friday w Where: Warriner Mall w Movie Screenings: "Dear John": 1 and 4 p.m. Friday in Pearce Hall 128. "The Blind Side": 9 p.m. in Kelly/Shorts Stadium.
will enjoy the Gentle Friday activities. “(Students can) take some time to relax and have a little bit of fun before exam week,” the Muskegon senior said. Friday’s activities are similar to those of last year, with a few improvements. Lewis said students can expect to see four musicians perform-
ing alternative and Christian music and an improv comedy group. Program Board also is offering “Bongo Ball Mania” during the event, a game similar to paintball, but with foam balls for ammunition. Caterers and local businesses will offer free food, including hot dogs, veggie dogs, popcorn and samples from area restaurants. Program Board also will host free movie screenings of the 2010 drama “Dear John” at 1 and 4 p.m. Friday in Pearce Hall 128 and the 2009 football film “The Blind Side” at 9 p.m. in Kelly/Shorts Stadium. Lewis said Program Board spent $10,000 on this year’s Gentle Friday. studentlife@cm-life.com
2A || Wednesday, April 28, 2010 || Central Michigan Life
EVENTS CALENDAR today w The CMU chapter of the Student Veterans of America meets at 6 p.m. in the Bovee University Center Chippewa Room. w The Department of Speech Communication and Dramatic Arts hosts a public debate on whether CMU should ban tobacco products at 7 p.m. in Moore Hall 206. w A University and Campus band concert begins at 8 p.m. in the Music Building’s Staples Family Concert Hall.
thursday w Wesley at CMU is showing the films "The Blues Brothers" and "Avatar" at 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. at 1400 S. Washington St. w A CMU surplus sale takes place from noon to 2 p.m. at the corner of Bellows and Douglas streets. Items for sale include office furniture and equipment. w The Musical Theatre Program hosts a benefit theatre event to help fight against AIDS from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at St. Johns Episcopal Church, 206 W. Maple St.
health| continued from 1a
By May 15, international student representatives have to choose four alternative policies, according to Health Services. The university requires students to pay $100 a month for the year-long $1,250 plan, according to the e-mail. CMU is offering an established insurance policy, Study USA, which meets all the requirements for the insurance policy. “We understand the need for insurance but, at the same time, they have to allow exceptions to fit students’ budgets,” Jacob said. Lack of affordability One of the main concerns some international students voiced about the policy is its year-long coverage. Nigeria graduate student Gabriel Emadamerho said the health insurance policy is a heavy burden for international students to bear if they will not be in America the entire time. “We pay a huge amount of tuition fees compared to what Americans are paying,” he said. “They put some barriers on it, and this makes it difficult for students who cannot afford this policy to cover all this.” Emadamerho plans to go to Nigeria for the summer and still is not sure if he will be held responsible for paying the unused insurance. Korea graduate student Mihyang An said she hopes international students find
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 83
their own solutions and negotiate with CMU. “What I am concerned about with this health insurance issue is that I have to buy a new (policy), because I already have health insurance which I bought in my country, Korea, when I came here,” An said. Nepal senior Pratik Chhetri said international students should be given as many options as American students in terms of insurance. “College is already expensive, international students pay more than double what American students pay,” Chhetri said. He said a compromise between administration and international students should happen soon. “I am pretty sure we will come to a common point,” he said. “We have been already asked for a couple alternatives to the university’s plan. A new plan Smith could not immediately comment on the issue. After an informal meeting last week, a group of international students decided that, by today, any other international students should find one health insurance plan meeting CMU’s requirements and post the link on their Facebook group, according to another mass e-mail sent to many international students by Nigeria junior Evelyn Famutimi, president of African Student Association. university@cm-life.com
WEATHER FORECAST Today High 61/Low 34 Sunny
Thursday High 70/Low 52 Mostly Sunny
0 percent chance of precipitation
20 percent chance of precipitation
Friday High 75/Low 60 Partly Cloudy
www.cm-life.com
[News]
20 percent chance of precipitation
CA$H
FOR BOOKS!
gvsu| continued from 1a
raised tuition. Last week, David Burdette, vice president of Finance and Administrative Services, told CM Life that EMU’s decision to freeze tuition would not affect CMU’s decision. CMU’s Board of Trustees will decide undergraduate tuition rates at its July 15 meeting. Lawrence Sych, associate professor of political science, said the decisions made by EMU and GVSU will not have much of an impact on the state budget for higher education.
fashion| continued from 1a
end of the school year it is hard to balance it,” she said. “I maybe sleep like five hours or less than that.” Jeanay’s friend, Robre’na Davis, a CMU alumna, said she does not know anyone else who works as hard as
“It makes no sense to restrain tuition unless the state increases its aid to higher education,” Sych said. “I can’t see them getting a balanced budget this year without them having to take some cuts on the higher education.” Higher education is one of the few programs in the general budget that can be cut and still function, he said. “The attitude is, ‘If we cut colleges and universities, they can increase tuition,’” he said. McLogan said the decision was not affected by EMU’s decision last week. Walter Kraft, vice president of Communications for EMU, said EMU had its students in mind when it planned a zero percent
tuition increase. EMU did not intentionally set a precedent for other universities to follow, he said. “We are focused on EMU and what’s right for our students,” he said. “We can’t really speak as to what other institutions are doing and what their plans are.” However, Kraft said he is pleased that GVSU is considering cutting tuition. “We know this is making a difference. We’re pleased to see the focus and attention on affordability and accessibility,” he said. “We think that goes a long way.”
Camille. “Camille is only a student, but she has an established company. Making money and running her business is very admirable,” Davis said. “She doesn’t even complain about it because that is what she loves. You can’t really fake what you are passionate about.” Jeanay said she pushes herself because of the job’s
rewards. “The best thing I like is to make people happy whenever they see my pieces and smile and cheer for it, that is the best part of it,” she said. “I have been getting a lot of praise for my work recently and I love it, it feels good to get acknowledged for the work I am doing.”
university@cm-life.com
studentlife@cm-life.com
SPRING 2010 EXAM SCHEDULE Monday, May 3
Friday, May 7
If your class begins: 9 a.m. MWF - 8 to 9:50 a.m. exam time 10 a.m. MWF - 10 to 11:50 a.m. exam time Noon MWF - Noon to 1:50 p.m. exam time 2 p.m. MWF - 2 to 3:50 p.m. exam time
If your class begins: 10 a.m. TR - 8 to 9:50 a.m. exam time 1 p.m. TR - 10 to 11:50 a.m. exam time
Evening classes
If your class begins: M, MW, 4 to 6 p.m. Your exam is: Monday, May 3 during the regular time (110 min.)
Tuesday, May 4 If 8 9 2
your a.m. a.m. p.m.
class begins: TR - 8 to 9:50 a.m. exam time TR - 10 to 11:50 a.m. exam time TR - 2 to 3:50 p.m. exam time
M, MW, 6:30 or 7 p.m. Your exam is: Monday, May 3 from 7 to 8:50 p.m. T, TR, 4 to 6 p.m. Your exam is: Tuesday, May 4 during the regular time (110 min.)
Wednesday, May 5
If your class begins: 8 a.m. MWF - 8 to 9:50 a.m. exam time 11 a.m. MWF - 10 to 11:50 a.m. exam time 1 p.m. MWF - Noon to 1:50 p.m. exam time 3 p.m. MWF - 2 to 3:50 p.m. exam time
T, TR, 6:30 or 7 p.m. Your exam is: Tuesday, May 4 from 7 to 8:50 p.m. W, 4 p.m. or After Your exam is: Wednesday, May 5 during the regular time (110 min.)
Thursday, May 6
R, 4 p.m. or After Your exam is: Thursday, May 6 during the regular time (110 min.)
If your class begins: 11 a.m. TR - 10 to 11:50 a.m. exam time Noon TR - Noon to 1:50 p.m. exam time 3 p.m. TR - 2 to 3:50 p.m. exam time
F, 4 p.m. or After Your exam is: Friday, May 7 during the regular time (110 min.)
3':. 2 KEYSTONE
OR BUSCH LIGHT 18-PACKS
IN TWO LOCATIONS!
20.00
$
MILLER LITE PARTY KEGS
UC BOOKSTORE HOURS
17.00
$
APRIL 26 - MAY 8 Mon-Thurs 8:30am-6:30pm Friday 8:30am - 5:00pm Saturday 10am-3:00pm
MILLER LITE 16 OZ 9-PACK
9.99
TOWERS,
$
MAY 3 - MAY 8 Mon-Thurs 9:00am - 4:30pm Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm
MAKE YOUR OWN
KULHAVI RM #142
SIX PACK
9.99
$
989-774-7493
www.CMUBookstore.com
ToDblD’s
You figure it out, you’re in college.
" Ê/ Ê ", ,Ê" Ê Ê Ê 9ÊUÊ(989) 772-5495
inside life Central Michigan Life
3A
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Officials preparing 2010-11 budget scenarios Small state cuts could mean little to no tuition raise By Jaimie Cremeans Staff Reporter
David Burdette said Central Michigan University has a “conservative model” for coming state appropriations cuts. With Michigan’s Senate Appropriations Committee recommending a 3.1 percent cut in appropriations to higher education, CMU administrators outlined their plans for budget cuts Monday in the Bovee University
Center Auditorium. Burdette, vice president of Financial and Administrative Services, presented budget models for the 2010-11 budget year based on anywhere from 5 to 20 percent cuts in state appropriations. By the models shown, if the cuts remain at or below 5 percent, CMU could afford its predicted budget without raising tuition. “While we may get a 3 to 4 percent reduction in state appropriations, that would be great because we modeled for a 20 percent reduction,” he said. “We have built a very conservative model.” He also said officials plan to
freeze the amount of money allocated to utilities over the next three years. Burdette also laid out models for next year’s budget based on a “modest” 2 percent increase in undergraduate tuition. Provost Gary Shapiro said officials have not decided what the tuition increase will be. “As challenging as the budget is, we are not alone,” said University President George Ross. “There are 15 colleges in this state and we are all challenged.” Ross said major plans for cuts include salary restraint, spending out of the reserve account and cutting maintenance and utility costs.
There should be no layoffs of any current faculty or staff over the next year based on what they know, Ross said. Kathy Wilbur, vice president of Government Relations and Public Affairs, said she does not blame the Senate for proposing the cut and said Michigan is facing a $1.7 billion deficit. Although the House of Representatives has not discussed the budget yet, they will probably consider a similar cut to appropriations, she said. “I think they were being very pragmatic,” Wilbur said. “I actually think 3.1 percent is almost nothing compared with what I think they really could do.”
Shapiro said state appropriations for 2010 is set at $80,064,200, about $400,000 less than it was in 2000. However, he said this amount means a lot less now as CMU has more students, and bills and expenses have increased greatly. The funding the university receive from the state now is about $4,285 per student, compared with about $4,900 in 2000. Shapiro said this has led CMU to raise tuition over the years to make up for the difference. “We cannot continue to raise tuition in a competitive sense,” Shapiro said. university@cm-life.com
Concert set to energize the city Commerce senior Justin Rydzewski expects the second annual Downtown for a Pint concert to be even better than the first. The four-hour event features six bands and will raise money for the American Red Cross starting at 5 p.m. Thursday in downtown Mount Pleasant. There will be stands selling Tshirts and other merchandise, and attendees can participate in games and raffles. Rydzewski said it is an effort to re-energize downtown Mount Pleasant. “City Hall spends hundreds of thousands of dollars to get the CMU population downtown,” said LeRoy sophomore Wayne Blanchard, who co-organized the event. “For the most part, CMU students don’t go there, but we want to draw students downtown.” The inspiration to create a live concert in the middle of the city evolved from the idea of just having an after-hours hot dog stand. “We just wanted to sell hot dogs to drunk college students,” Rydzewski said. Once the idea was fleshed out, Blanchard and Rydzewski — both members of Alpha Kappa Psi co-ed professional business fraternity — obtained support from Mount Pleasant’s City Hall, the police department and a number of sponsors from downtown. The stage was borrowed from A Concert | 7A
If you go...
By Melissa Torok Staff Reporter
Petting a dog can be an easy way to relieve stress. And during exam week, most students will need to relieve as much stress as they can. Dog Tales Founder and Coordinator Betty Lewis will bring her dogs to visit Larzelere, Calkins, Campbell, Beddow, Trout, Robinson, Wheeler and Kesseler halls Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. “It helps them unwind, so
Pancake Breakfast
Sigma Alpha Epsilon hosts a pancake breakfast from 11 p.m. to 3 a.m. Thursday night at the Wesley Foundation, 1400 S. Washington St. All proceeds will go toward the Children’s Miracle Network. Students can get tickets from a member for $5 or purchase them at the door for $6. For more information, contact Cody Nihem at nihem1cj@cmich.edu.
Mobile scavenger hunt photos by libby march/staff photographer
Roscommon freshman Anya O’Brien laughs as Money Tree Game Show host Sean Carlin pokes fun at her rendering of the state of Texas, which she drew while competing to win money Tuesday in the Bovee University Center Rotunda.
show me the money Students win big at Bovee University Center game show By Melissa Torok Staff Reporter
S
ome students will do just about anything for money. Anya O’Brien had to draw a picture of Texas. The Roscommon freshman won $45 in the bonus round of the Money Tree Game show Tuesday at the Bovee University Center. “I kind of thought of how it looked, but I wasn’t sure,” O’Brien said. “It was pretty exciting - the guy was a lot of fun.” About 26 students did various activities for money like assemble a Rubik’s Cube, jump rope and list as many movies as they could with the word “war” in the title. The Texas picture was O’Brien’s toughest task. “Everyone wants the chance to win money,” said Allenpark junior Russell Pfafflin. “To me this is new. I’ve never seen anything like this before.” Pfafflin is Program Board’s
special events chair and came up with the Money Tree Game Show idea. Program Board hosted the event. Students were randomly selected to participate in three rounds with themes including intelligence, skill and athletics. Four students competed in each round. Winners of each round had 20 seconds to pull money off the ‘money tree.’ The money tree resembled a large white Christmas tree with $5 bills stuffed inside. The tree had a total of $500, Minier said. The money-grabbers were required to wear dark sunglasses, gloves and an apron, and had to grab the cash with one hand. Sean Carlin hosted the show and tossed money to an excited crowd throughout the event. Students eagerly jumped at the falling one dollar bills. Carlin began the show by asking the crowd simple tasks. He gave money to
they can go back to study,” Lewis said. About eight handlers and their dogs will visit, and students can spend as much time as they need with them. Dog Tales is a nonprofit organization that uses therapeutic dogs to help children read. Lewis founded the group in 2005 and each dog must undergo testing before certification. “It’s like a basic obedience class,” Lewis said about the dogs’ training. “You have to be able to have them stay and then call them.” Dogs learn basic commands such as sit, lay down and stay. Lewis said dogs can reduce stress and blood pressure by 50 percent.
All breeds can certify for therapy. The dogs must have a friendly manner with all handlers and a ‘meet and greet’ activity tests the dog’s interaction with other handlers during training. “We walk them around through a bunch of people,” Lewis said. “The dog can’t panic, it shows they will be alright with other people.” She said temperament and obedience are important qualities in a therapy dog. “If they are too frightened of the equipment, then they won’t give a good visit,” Lewis said. She said the dogs must be comfortable around wheelchairs or walkers in nursing homes. A Dogs | 7a
On the Fly Productions hosts “Blitz for Buzz,” a mobile scavenger hunt taking place across campus from 1 to 3 p.m. Thursday. Groups will meet in front of the Bovee University Center and must consist of four people. At least one person must be able to receive text messages through their cell phone. Prizes will be awarded. For more information, contact onthefly@cmich.edu or at 7741189.
Moore Hall Television
MHTV is looking for a new TV host for a high adventure show in the fall. Students auditioning must be available in the summer and fall and must be willing to perform extreme sports activities. For more information, contact Danielle Mann at mann1d@cmich.edu or call (586) 214-9711.
Shelby Township freshman Ben Halliwill and Roscommon freshman Anya O’Brien listen to Money Tree Game Show host Sean Carlin direct them Tuesday in the Bovee University Center Rotunda. Halliwill and O’Brien were freehand-drawing the state of Texas in competition to win money.
students with a new state quarter or with the biggest tattoo. Carlin asked the audience questions to earn extra cash. Such questions included naming the capital of Nevada. “It was a lot of fun,” Gregory senior Abby Gillingham
said of the competition. “I didn’t make any money, but it was fun.” Gillingham made it to the end of round two. Every student eliminated received a free Money Tree Game Show T-shirt. studentlife@cm-life.com
Dog Tales making return appearance in residence halls Hall-to-hall visit allows for exam stress relief
Central Harmony is hosting a spring concert May 1 in Moore Hall’s Townsend Kival. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the concert will begin at 7 p.m. The cost is $5 at the door. Tickets may only be purchased at the door. The concert will feature Common Ground Dance Crew. For more information, check out the event “Central Harmony Spring Concert,” on Facebook.com.
The National Broadcasting Society will play the movies students produced for its 48hour film competition from 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday in the Charles V. Park Library Auditorium. Participants had 48 hours to create a short movie that included five specific elements. The winners will be announced and will receive prizes. For more information, contact Colin Hennessy at henne1ct@cmich.edu.
By Thiago Fernandes Staff Reporter
What: Downtown for a Pint II When: 5 p.m. Thursday Where: Downtown Mount Pleasant Cost: Free
Spring Concert
NBS film competition
Downtown for a Pint seeks to raise $2,000
w w w w
[Life in brief]
sean proctor/staff photographer
Warren junior Amanda Shepard and Lowell junior Kenny Hayes talk with Judy Zeiss, of Midland, and play with Judy’s 4-year-old shetland sheepdog Laddie Sunday evening in Larzelere Hall.
Heidi Fenton, Managing Editor | news@cm-life.com | 989.774.4343
SHC Spring Fling
The Saxe/Herrig/Celani residence halls host the third annual SHC Spring Fling from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday in the Saxe Herrig Courtyard. The event features a dunk tank, tye - dying, volleyball, a rock wall, garage sale and sidewalk chalking contest. For more information e-mail johns15c@cmich.edu.
Retention Matters
Human Resources will host an educational session entitled Retention Matters from 2 to 3:30 p.m. today at the Education and Human Services Building 315. Within the hourlong session, students will learn what is happening in the world of retention. The session will be facilitated by Shawn Wilson and Amy McGinnis. For more information, contact Human Resources Strategy and Organizational Development at stratod@cmich.edu or at 774-6447.
If you have an interesting item for Life in Brief, let us know by e-mailing news@cmlife.com
www.cm-life.com
[News]
Career Services: Beware of unpaid internships Officials verify which employers are ‘legitimate’ By Kelli Ameling Staff Reporter
Jeff smith/staff photographer
Mount Pleasant resident Jerry Anger, right, and Mid Michigan Community College junior Kristin Keast smoke cigarettes while bowling with friends Monday at Chippewa Lanes, 1200 S. Mission St. The group bowls every Monday, but this was the last opportunity in a smoking environment. “It’s not a big deal, it would be better to smoke outside anyway,” Anger said. “It will make me smoke less.”
Smoking ban begins Saturday; restaurants prep for change By Ryan Taljonick Staff Reporter
Rebecca Koglin is an occasional smoker excited for the state-wide smoking ban that takes effect Saturday. The statute bans smoking at all places of work besides cigar bars and the gaming floors of Detroit’s casinos. Several of Koglin’s friends light up cigarettes while they bowl at Chippewa Lanes, 1200 S. Mission St. “I think some people are going to like it, and some people are going to get pissed,” the Port Hope senior said of the ban. She is excited she does not have to worry about the scent of cigarettes filling public places. “You won’t wake up smelling like smoke when you haven’t been smoking,” Koglin said. Michigan will become the 38th state in the U.S. to ban smoking in public places after Gov. Jennifer Granholm signed the law in December. Katie Lundwall, manager at O’Kelly’s Sports Bar and Grille, 2000 S. Mission St., said the bar
Central Michigan Life || Wednesday, April 28, 2010 || 5A
is prepared for the ban. “We made signs — we’re going to put them up everywhere,” Lundwall said. “We should have it under control.” Lundwall does not anticipate losing much business. “I think it will be just like anywhere else,” she said. “(Smokers will) adjust to it. I mean, they have to.” O’Kelly’s will be a healthier, cleaner environment, she said. Matt Richardson, a student at Mid Michigan Community College, smokes frequently and said the ban will likely lead him to smoke less often. “It might make a lot of people cut back on their habit,” Richardson said. “I know when I’m at the bar, I smoke way more than I normally do. It goes hand in hand.” However, he said the smoking ban will not keep him from going outside to light up. “It’s going to be a nuisance for me. They should have designated areas to smoke,” Richardson said, noting his curiosity in how the ban will be enforced. Richardson said he views the
first few months as a trial run when some people still attempt to edge past the law. “I understand the ban, I know that it’s horrible for me,” he said of smoking. “It’s been in my life for this long, why are you taking it from me?” Mount Pleasant resident Kari Nicholas cannot wait for the smoking ban. “I love it,” she said. “I don’t want to have to smell like (smoke) if I don’t do it.” While some residents are unsure whether the flow of business will remain steady in the immediate days after the ban, many have confidence things will smooth over. People will adjust to the ban, said Dan Bragg, a Chippewa Lanes employee. Bragg noted some people who have dropped out of bowling leagues due to smoke. “It seems to have worked in other states, so we’ll see what happens,” he said. “Either way you go, you’ll make some people happy and some people mad.” studentlife@cm-life.com
Many students have internships lined up and ready to go as summer appraoches. But students with unpaid internships may not be as ready as they think. “There are so many devious ways, in the employer population, that prey on students to do labor to make income for themselves,” said Julia Sherlock, director of career services. Sherlock said students should never accept an internship they have to put money up front for. “If it feels funny, it is,” she said. “If you feel like a slave, walk out. You don’t have to stay there.” Students should read and re-read everything before signing a contract. Although some internships have mass payoffs at the end that work for some students, these opportunities do not work for most. “Never, ever have an internship that is unpaid without realizing what the requirements are up front,” Sherlock said, explaining her belief a legitimate organization would not offer an internship unpaid. “I would be curious what the outcomes were,” she added. Gary Gagnon, assistant professor of marketing and hospitality services, said the hospitality department only does paid internships. “If they get one of our hospitality students who have studied this, and they only pay $9, they are going to get much, much more than $9 worth,” Gagnon said. “They are going to get a lot of value for what they
“We exist to help students and encourage them to use the resources (they) are paying for.” Julia Sherlock, director of career services are paying.” Sherlock said some students have brought internships to Career Services’ attention in the past. “We take an active role in investigating internships and have even banned some employers from campus,” Sherlock said. Setting a standard Recently, Career Services banned College Pro Painters from campus because it was not a legitimate employer, she said. Students would walk away with debt after working. Sherlock said before employers are able to advertise through Central Michigan University, Career Services reviews the employer to make sure the person is a legitimate employer. If the place does not meet the criteria, it is denied. “Our job is to maintain and make sure (the internship) is safe education and mentoring,” Sherlock said. Gagnon said he has to ap-
prove all the internships his students find. He said he has been around a long time and has seen many of the same ones but, when a student finds a new one, he investigates it. “They sign a contract about what the student is promised to do. If they don’t do these things, we contact them,” Gagnon said. He said before students leave to go to their internships, he gives them his contact information and tells the students to contact him right away if there are any problems. She said internship coordinators also are aware of who are legitimate employers. “We exist to help students and encourage them to use the resources (they) are paying for,” Sherlock said. “We look for the best interest for our students to help make the transition from student to professional.” studentlife@cm-life.com
voices
“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
Central Michigan Life
6A Wednesday, April 28, 2010
[cm-life.com/category/opinion]
Brian Manzullo, Editor
in
Chief | Will Axford, Voices Editor | Heidi Fenton, Managing Editor | Eric Dresden, University Editor | Jackie Smith, Metro Editor
EDITORIAL | CMU does not have an excuse to raise tuition 2 percent in 2009-10 school year
Staying affordable
F
unding for higher education in Michigan is drying up in the wake of a $1.7-billion state budget deficit.
Central Michigan University is possibly looking at a 2 percent tuition increase next year, which is small compared to previous years. But universities should not bow to the state by raising tuition rates to offset lower state appropriations — exactly what government officials consider appropriate in dire economic times. A 2 percent increase in tuition is a failure on CMU’s part, especially when smaller schools such as Grand Valley State University and Eastern Michigan University are trying to freeze or reduce tuition. CMU isn’t
Michigan State or University of Michigan, and its tuition rates should reflect that. EMU surprised students by announcing that tuition, room and board will stay level during the next academic year. EMU also had the lowest tuition increase during the 2008-09 academic year. GVSU is taking similar steps in reducing tuition by promising to cut its rate by 5 percent if the state gives it $3,775 per student, the minimum level of state funding. CMU receives $4,285 per student — much more than GVSU and the state minimum.
GUEST COLUMN
Coupled by the fact that both universities have a comparable number of undergraduate students (17,851 students at CMU, 17,135 at GVSU), it is absurd CMU is even proposing to increase tuition. So what’s stopping CMU from taking the same steps in not raising tuition? Yes, lower appropriations from the state make it difficult to continue operation but, if other universities are capable of continuing without increasing tuition, CMU should be able to do the same. GVSU receives the lowest funding per student in the state and is proposing to cut tuition costs with lower per-student funding than CMU. EMU had the lowest increase in tuition last year and managed to keep the same rate. Perhaps it’s the mentality that CMU is better than EMU and GVSU, and closer to the likes of MSU or U-M. But during struggling eco-
nomic times, why increase tuition when your direct competition — which already is cheaper to attend — is not? Someone should tell administrators that this university can’t compete on the same level as the bigger colleges in academics. CMU isn’t a giant research facility. The football team does not generate a profit. Enrollment numbers are nowhere near either of those universities. CMU isn’t recognized nationally to be as nearly as scholarly. Why? Because the university chooses to spend money on big projects, such as the medical college, rather than on bolstering its existing academic programs. And now those programs are suffering. CMU needs to freeze tuition if it wishes to be competitive within the state of Michigan. Show students that giving the best possible education at a reasonable cost is the goal.
NATE BEELER [CARTOON]
Healthy relationships Family members, friends and others are in unhealthy relationships more often than we realize. People in healthy relationships are treated equally to one another. However, this does not always turn out to be the case. One of the main reasons is due to a lack of healthy relationships to model after these days. To pave the way for a better future within your relationship, it is best to practice creating forms of equality at the beginning of the relationship and to establish these methods from there on. If you set the same rules and standards for both people in the relationship, you are taking the right steps toward equality. Ultimately, when both people in the relationship have a say and feel as though their thoughts and opinions are valued, neither person will feel superior to the another. Developing a sense of identity is significant to starting and maintaining a healthy relationship. In a healthy relationship, you have the right to your own opinion, to talk to others about how you feel, to choose your own friends, to feel safe and to be treated with respect. However, with your rights comes responsibilities. Being honest about your thoughts, listening and agreeing to disagree will aid in making your relationship healthier. People in relationships have the authority to make choices on how they will behave. At times, there will be cases of anger and arguments — these feelings are normal. How we act on these feelings will determine whether the relationship is considered healthy or unhealthy. Working to achieve a healthy relationship requires time and patience. Proving that you have admiration and concern for the other person in the relationship takes practice and will involve getting feedback from your partner. If you or a friend is involved an unhealthy relationship, there are many options for help. Resources available locally consist of our oncampus student organization SAPA (Sexual Aggression Peer Advocates) and Women’s Aid Service of Isabella County. For more information on concerns regarding healthy relationships, visit womens-aid.org.
[our readers’ voice]
Comparing Dan LeFevour to Tim Tebow absurd; Tebow far superior Mr. Stover, I found the article comparing Tim Tebow and Dan LeFevour in Monday’s paper ridiculous. The article starts out by talking about how Tebow wasn’t supposed to be drafted until the middle rounds; but if Stover had watched anything about the draft a few days before, both Mel Kiper and Todd McShay said Tebow would be going late first round. Stover goes on to say that Tebow and LeFevour are near clones?! Are you kidding me? Tim Tebow has been invited to the Heisman Trophy presentation 3 times in his career winning one trophy. Tebow has been called one of the best college football players ever, while Dan is nothing more than one of the best college MAC quarterbacks players ever — big difference. I compare Tebow to a utility tool and, for the last 4 years, he was using the screw driver, but he still has the ability to use the knife, bottle
opener and scissors; believe me, his stay at Florida was just the beginning. Even if drafting Tebow was a ‘gimmick’ move as Mr. Stover indicates, and Tebow fails as a quarterback, it will not only increase ticket sales, but also Tebow merchandise will outsell LeFevour’s by an outlandish amount. All in all, a pretty good gimmick I suppose. I will agree that LeFevour dropped a little more than I expected, but he is nothing more than a system quarterback who had superior talent (Antonio Brown) to the rest of the MAC, and could get away with throwing a screen to Brown and watching him take it the distance. When I would watch CMU games, I rarely saw Dan throwing the ball downfield, and the same can be said for Tebow. But would you rather have someone who dominated the SEC for 3 years or one that dominated the MAC? Stover was correct on one point in his article, when he said LeFevour
won’t succeed in the NFL; he might stick around as a backup or get a couple starts here and there, but he will never be a regular started in the NFL. But he can’t convince me Tebow won’t succeed. If watching Tim over the last 4 years has taught me anything, it’s that he is going to ‘want’ it more than anybody else on the field. Ever since he won the Heisman 3 years ago, everybody and their mother has been trying to find flaws in his game. But saying he can’t do something, that his delivery is a little off, or that he wears his heart on his sleeve is only going to make him work harder. Teams could use more players like Tebow, maybe we should stop trying to criticize him every chance we get and take him for face value; a person we wish we could all be a little more like. Michael R. McDowell Ada sophomore
C M Y ou |Do you think CMU players drafted into the NFL will do well?
COM 353: Small Group Communication
Central Michigan Life Editorial Brian Manzullo, Editor in Chief Heidi Fenton, Managing Editorr Joe Borlik, Student Life Editor Jackie Smith, Metro Editor Eric Dresden, University Editor Andrew Stover, Sports Editor Ashley Miller, Photo Editor Will Axford, Voices Editor David Veselenak, Online Editor Chelsea Kleven, Lead Designer Advertising Lindsey Reed, Katie Sidell Advertising Managers Carly Schafer, Shawn Wright Multi-Media Marketing Coordinators Professional staff Rox Ann Petoskey, Production Leader Kathy Simon, Assistant Director of Student Media Neil C. Hopp, Adviser to Central Michigan Life
“I think Dan LeFevour can be a successful back-up QB.” Michael Buczek,
Freeland junior
“Yes, I think they’ll do well.” Aundrea Stokes,
Detroit junior
“I think they are going to do good because they had good stats in college.” Erica Kearns,
South Lyon sophomore
“I think (Dan LeFevour) will do pretty good after 3 years.” Charles Eady,
Lansing junior
paige calamari/staff photographer
Central Michigan Life is the independent voice of Central Michigan University and is edited and published by students of Central Michigan University every Monday, Wednesday and Friday during the fall and spring semesters, and every Wednesday during the summer. The online edition (www.cm-life.com) contains all of the material published in print. Central Michigan Life is is under the jurisdiction of the independent Student Media Board of Directors. Articles and opinions do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions
of CMU or its employees. Central Michigan Life is a member of the Michigan Press Association, the Michigan Collegiate Press Association, the Associated Collegiate Press and the College Newspaper Business & Advertising Managers Association. Central Michigan Life’s operations are totally funded from revenues through advertising sales. Editions are distributed free throughout the community and individuals are entitled
to one copy. Each copy has an implied value of 75 cents. Non-university subscriptions are $1 per mailed edition. Copies of photographs published in Central Michigan Life or its online edition (www.cm-life.com) are available for purchase at http://reprints.cm-life.com Central Michigan Life’s editorial and business offices are located at 436 Moore Hall, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859, telephone 774-3493.
Michael L. Hoffman Columnist
Facing a death Dying should be mourned, but also celebrated
I did not attend my first funeral until last December. I am nearly 24 years old. It’s not an activity I’d like to be repeating anytime soon, but it’s looking like I will be. A family friend has been in the hospital fighting for her life for the past few months. And boy, was she one tough old bird. My Tante (Aunt) Else was the true embodiment of a third grandma. And even though she had been in the hospital for the past few months, and even though I prepared myself for the dreaded phone call from my dad, hearing the news of someone’s death is never easy to hear, especially someone I have known all of my 23-plus years. She was an old German woman and, when I say German, I mean really German. Her accent was thick and, when she got excited, it was hard to understand her. But that was one of the things that was so endearing. She played the accordion and could never offer me enough food or beer, things I will miss. But, in the end, it is better that she has passed away — she was an octogenarian with a bum hip and two bum knees. Her time had come. In the past six months, I have dealt with more death in my life than ever before, learning to cope and that it’s okay to lean on someone else’s shoulders. Everyone deals with death differently. Some people retract and just stay inside themselves, others are overly emotional and there are some people like me that appear unaffected. But don’t misread my lack of public display of emotion. It isn’t that I am not sad. I am — very much so. But I refuse to let this ruin the rest of my day, week or month. As Master Yoda said, “death is a natural part of life,” and the deceased’s life should be celebrated, not mourned. Everyone has a story to tell and, when someone dies, that story should be told by family, friends and confidants. This is why the death of a family member or friend doesn’t affect me the way it does some other people. My Tante Else came to the U.S. in 1953, with little more than a few dollars and a truckload of determination. She worked her way up in the world, eventually owning several storefronts and living in the cozy old-money neighborhood of Grosse Pointe. But I will remember her for the little things she did: the undying effort to make me eat more food than should be possible, or to drink more coke or beer than is ever necessary. She was a beacon of generosity that outshined many people in my life. And though we didn’t always agree on some issues, she still fed me chocolate. Like everyone else, she has a story to be told. And it is my job to tell that story.
[letters to the editor] E-mail | voices@cm-life.com Mail | 436 Moore Hall Mount Pleasant, MI 48859 Fax | 989.774.7805 Central Michigan Life welcomes letters to the editor and commentary submissions. Only correspondence that includes a signature (e-mail excluded), address and phone number will be considered. Do not include attached documents via email. Letters should be no longer than 300 words and commentary should not exceed 500 words. All submissions are subject to editing and may be published in print or on www.cm-life.com in the order they are received.
cm-life.com/vibe
[VIBE]
Central Michigan Life || Wednesday, April 28, 2010 || 7A
Former NBA star visits CMU Houston talks character development By Ryan Taljonick Staff reporter
Tim Roberts enjoyed listening to two-time NBA All Star Allan Houston speak about the importance of spirituality, family relationships and leadership skills. He was one of about 250 attendants in the Bovee University Center Auditorium Tuesday night. “It meant a lot to me,” the Adrian junior said. “It was all about understanding your role that God has given you, and your gifts.” Houston played for the Detroit Pistons from 1993 to 1996 and the New York Knicks from 1996 to 2005. He was also an Olympic gold medalist in 2000. He has since retired and works for the New York Knicks as the assistant to the president for basketball operations. Houston wanted to use his leadership skills outside of the sport to make a positive impact on the world, he said.
Concert | continued from 3A
City Hall, while a lot of the sound equipment came from the Dow Diamond baseball stadium in Midland. Bigger and better? Three bands are returning from last year and three newcomers will perform. Jetpack On! will open festivities, along with event emcee Mike Breezy. The Muggs, The Satin Peaches, Mick Bassett and the Marthas, Millions of Brazilians and Lightning Love also will perform. Rydzewski said getting the
dogs | continued from 3A
An examiner pets the dog’s ears, eyes, nose and back. Lewis evaluates dogs for Therapy Dogs International. Dog Tales visited Merrill Hall during last semester’s finals. Commerce Township freshman Mckenzie McDougall participated last year and said her favorite dog
Dog Tales schedule
w w w w w w w
4 to 5 p.m. Sunday in Calkins Hall 6 to 7 p.m. Sunday in Campbell Hall 7 to 8 p.m. Sunday in Beddows Hall 8 to 9 p.m. Sunday in Trout Hall 7 to 8 p.m. Monday in Robinson Hall 8 to 9 p.m. Monday in Wheeler Hall 8 to 9 p.m. Tuesday in Kessler Hall
He stressed the importance of spirituality and family relationships in character development. “I think God really hits people in their hearts at a certain stage of their lives,” Houston said. “I started to question, ‘why, why did I get this gift?’” Houston has created several organizations that focus on character development. He started the Allan Houston’s “Father Knows Best” Basketball Retreat, which aims to strengthen fatherson and mentor-mentee relationships. “If we address the family, we address a lot of society’s issues,” Houston said. “(The retreat) provides an atmosphere where they can enjoy and enhance their relationships.” It is statistically proven that youth who grow up without a father figure are susceptible to committing crime and social injustices, Houston said. “Forty-three percent of U.S. children are without fathers,” he said. “Eighty percent of rapists are from fatherless homes. Eighty-five percent of youth in prison lack a father in the home.” He also created the “Allan
Houston’s Business Education and Development Program,” which aims to provide economic empowerment through training and education to young entrepreneurs in Harlem and New Orleans. Houston stressed the importance of being involved in sports. The camaraderie, he said, is a crucial part of character development. “The best teams that I’ve seen had a strong identity,” Houston said. “You have to be able to effectively communicate and hold your group accountable.” Leadership skills learned in sports can be used to better the world, he said. “Sports increases our capacity to live a more effective life,” Houston said. Jalin Thomas, a forward for CMU’s basketball team, really enjoyed listening to Houston’s presentation. “I thought it impacted a lot of people in there,” he said. “It impacted my life.” The Ohio junior said he was pleased that Houston incorporated family and religion into his speech. “A lot of what he said ran
bands the first time around was a stroke of luck. He went to the same high school as the lead singer of The Satin Peaches and, when he bumped into him at a bar, he mustered the courage to ask the band to perform at the first Downtown for a Pint last year. “(The Satin Peaches) are a huge deal in my hometown,” Rydzewski said. “They ended up hooking all of our bands and we got five bands together. It’s mostly local Detroit talent — up and coming bands.” During last year’s event, 600 people attended and $1,000 was raised for the American Red Cross. Blanchard and Rydzewski
“Bring your friends, bring a camera and just expect to have a really good time. You will make some memories you will never forget.”
was a chocolate labrador. “It was definitely a good break from finals,” McDougall said. Several students look forward to spending more time with the dogs. “They were really cute,” said Warren freshman Dana Deboer. “They were friendly and loving with everyone.” The group also works with Special Olympics, in classrooms and with the day care
in the Education and Human Services Building. Lewis said bringing the dogs to campus is an easier job than the other places they visit, especially the day care. “Children make fast quick movements,” Lewis said. “Students are gentle and caring and treat them really well, so they really enjoy it.”
jeff smith/staff photographer
Former Detroit Piston and two-time NBA All Star Allan Houston speaks about being a father and a leader Tuesday in the Bovee University Center Auditorium.
along with what I felt and what I believe in,” he said. “A lot of kids are growing up without parents. It’s important that they learn about life through their parents.” studentlife@cm-life.com
Justin Rydezwski, Commerce senior said this year the event will be much bigger, better and brighter. “There’s a lot of different organizations pitching in,” Blanchard said. “Alpha Kappa Psi has done a lot of the work. We collaborated with Modern Rock 91.5 as well.” After the event, at 11:15 p.m., the Brass Cafe, 128 S. Main St., one of the event’s sponsors, will host a meet-
studentlife@cm-life.com
and-greet with the bands. Rydzewski said he expects around 2,000 people to attend and donations to exceed $2,000 for the American Red Cross. “Bring your friends, bring a camera and just expect to have a really good time,” he said. “You will make some memories you will never forget.” studentlife@cm-life.com
sports Central Michigan Life
8A
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
[cm-life.com/category/sports]
men’s basketball
JUCO transfer Paramore signs letter of intent with CMU 6-foot point guard led Triton College in points and assists By Daniel Monson Senior Reporter
The sixth member of the CMU men’s basketball team’s 2010 recruiting class is no stranger to success. Paris Paramore, a 6-foot point guard who led Triton College (Ill.) to a 55-7 record during his two seasons, signed a National Letter of Intent to play at CMU on Monday. “He’s a winner,” said CMU coach Ernie Zeigler. “He’s a guy who had really good
leadership skills throughout high school and college. He’s played in situations where he’s helped his teams win.” Paramore’s 14.8 points and 4.7 assists per game led Triton, which finished 26-3 last season. He also added 5.1 rebounds per game. In 200809, Triton went 29-4 and did not lose a game in the North Central Community College Conference. “I try to pick players up when they’re down and make sure they’re working hard,” Paramore said. “For the big men, if they’re running the floor, I like to reward them. It’s not all about scoring — I rebound a lot as well.” Triton coach Steven Chris-
tiansen said Paramore is an unselfish contributor. “Paris is just a really smart, solid player,” said Triton coach Steve Paris Paramore Christiansen. “He does a lot of things on the floor that increases his team’s chances of winning. He’s just kind of always in the right spot making the play that needs to be made.” Said CMU assistant coach Darren Kohne: “I think he’s very versatile — he’s a good shooter who shot 50 percent from the field and 39 percent from (3-point range) last season.
“He’s not a great athlete — very average athleticism. But he just has a desire and passion to win, which I think, in Coach Zeigler’s program, is ultimately the most important characteristic you can have.” High school As a prep player at Chicago’s George Washington High School, Paramore helped lead his team to back-to-back city championship games. His team lost both times against Simeon Career Academy, which was led by Derrick Rose, who now is a member of the NBA’s Chicago Bulls. “The Chicago Public Schools are real tough,” Par-
amore said. “I think that played a good role in getting me to this point.” Paramore’s George Washington teams also featured DeAndre Liggins, a guard at Kentucky and Kansas guard Mario Little. Christiansen said Paramore chose the Chippewas over Eastern Michigan and Loyola. “It’s going to be a real honor to represent the ‘C’ and be part of one of the top recruiting classes in Central history,” Paramore said. ‘Great depth’ Paramore likely will compete with senior Amir Rashid next season for the starting position at point guard.
Central Michigan 14, Wayne State 9
offensive rebuttal Lineup 1. Billy Anderson (CF) 0-for-0 Tyler Kipke (PH/CF) 1-for-4, 2 R, 2 RBI 2. Matt Faiman (P/DH) 2-for-5, 2 R, 2 RBI 3. James Teas (3B) 0-for-2, 1 R, 1 RBI 4. Nate Theunissen (1B) 4-for-4, 3 R, 1 HR, 5 RBI 5. Scott Phillion (LF) 2-for-4, 1 RBI 6. Jordan Adams (C) 1-for-5, 1 R, 2 RBI 7. Sam Russell (LF/RF) 1-for-3, 2R 8. Ricky Clark (2B) 1-for-3, 2 R, 1 RBI Jordan Dean (PH/2B) 0-for-1 (BB) 9. Robbie Harman (SS) 1-for-4, 1 R
photos by matthew stephens/senior photographer
Sophomore first baseman Nate Theunissen (9) is congratulated after hitting his team-leading sixth home run of the season during the third inning of the CMU baseball team’s 14-9 win against Wayne State on Tuesday at Theunissen Stadium. Theunissen went 4-for-4 with one home run and five runs batted in.
Team ends skid; Theunissen goes 4-for-4 from plate Theunissen file
By John Evans | Staff Reporter
T
he CMU baseball team scored 14 consecutive runs Tuesday afternoon at Theunissen Stadium en route to a 14-9 win against Wayne State. It improved its home record to 11-2 after losing its last two to Ball State in Mount Pleasant. The Warriors got off to a 5-0 lead in the second inning, but CMU responded in the bottom of the second, scoring seven runs. Coach Steve Jaksa said the way his team responded sparked the entire afternoon. “They got a couple of hits there and put up a five-spot, but we were able to come back,” Jaksa said. “It’s a new day and it’s a new game, and we have to get our guys playing well and feeling good about themselves.” The Chippewas’ 14 runs all came between the second and sixth inning, and all were unanswered. Sophomore Nate Theunissen went 4-for-4 with two walks and a three-run home run that sailed over the right-center scoreboard. He finished the day with five runs batted in and leads the team with six home runs and 36 RBIs. Junior Bryce Morrow (2-2) picked up his second win of the season after relieving starter Matt Faiman in the second inning. Morrow pitched 4 and 1/3 innings and struck out the first batter he faced to end the five-run second inning for Wayne State. But the offense was what won the game.
“It was patience at the plate, for sure,” Theunissen said. “When you see it real well, you have more patience, and I was just looking for a good pitch to hit.” After Theunissen’s homer in the third inning, CMU added two more in the fourth and one in the fifth and sixth innings to take a
Sophomore Nate Theunissen leads the team in runs, home runs and RBIs
.380 Batting average
6 36 Home runs
Runs batted in
Junior Bryce Morrow came in for long relief duty and got his second win of the season Tuesday against Wayne State at Theunissen Stadium.
14-5 lead. Faiman stayed in the game to be a designated hitter after being relieved by Morrow and finished with two hits, two RBIs and two runs scored. Theunissen said there is resiliency throughout CMU’s lineup, and it was on full display in the win. “Everybody one-through-
nine, and guys coming off of the bench, want their shot to produce for the team,” Theunissen said. “Nobody wants to let anybody down.” The win ends a two-game losing streak where CMU scored just four runs combined in the losses to Ball State. The team is tied for first
place in the Mid-American Conference with an 11-4 record. However, CMU has one more non-conference game before it starts a weekend series against Northern Illinois. It plays at 3 p.m. Thursday at Oakland University in Rochester. sports@cm-life.com
Andrew Stover, Sports Editor | spors@cm-life.com | 989.774.3169
The Chippewas lose their starting backcourt and two leading scorers — Jordan Bitzer and Robbie Harman. Incoming freshman Trey Zeigler is expected to start at shooting guard or small forward, but Ernie Zeigler said he expects practices to increase in intensity. “(Paramore) allows us to have great depth in our backcourt, and he brings a competitiveness to the position as well,” Zeigler said. “We’re going to have the opportunity to have some very spirited and competitive practices that are going to help this team develop.” sports@cm-life.com
Baseball plays OU; tweaks rotation Dodridge to start today; Enns takes mound Saturday By John Evans Staff Reporter
The CMU baseball team stays out of conference at 3 p.m. today as it plays Oakland University on the road in Rochester. Sophomore left-hander Rick Dodridge gets the start for the Chippewas. “We have got a game against Oakland and we are going to focus on that,” said sophomore Nate Theunissen, who went 4-for-4 with a home run and five runs batted in during Tuesday’s game against Wayne State. “And then we will focus on the weekend (vs. Northern Illinois) to make sure we are prepared for that.” Theunissen leads the way with a .380 batting average, and he hit his sixth home run of the season in the 14-9 win against Wayne State on Tuesday. Oakland is 9-24 this season, but is 6-5 at home. Junior Tommy Jablonski leads Oakland with a .367 batting average and 15 runs batted in this season. In comparison, Theunissen leads CMU with 36 RBIs. Junior Bryce Morrow has been CMU’s starter of choice during most Wednesday games. But he had to come in long relief for junior Matt Faiman on Tuesday.
Tuesday pitching Junior Matt Faiman usually plays outfield and has provided some consistency with his bat throughout the lineup Matt Faiman this season. But Faiman also is a pitcher, and he was CMU’s starter against Wayne State on Tuesday. Faiman got his third start of the season, but it was not his best outing. He pitched 1 and 2/3 innings before being relieved by Morrow. He allowed four hits and five runs before being pulled. Only one of his runs were earned and he recorded four strikeouts along the way, including strikeouts against the first two batters he faced. “We were going on a pitch count with both Matt and Bryce,” said coach Steve Jaksa. “We changed Bryce’s role a little bit to have him come out of the bullpen for this weekend — each of his last four outings have been very good, and that is good for him going into the
A today | 10A
cm-life.com/category/sports
[Sports]
Squires overcomes injury to foot in senior season
Softball
Defensive success has gone unnoticed
Distance runner tears planter fascia, works to get back By John Manzo Staff Reporter
CMU’s left side has knack for ‘highlight’ plays By Matthew Valinski Staff Reporter
The left side of the field on the CMU softball team’s defense is becoming known as a place where bloop singles and foul balls become casualties. Left fielder Ashley Gilson and third baseman Amanda Patrick have been the two who have felt the force of the ground when they dive on a regular basis. “I just want to get a good jump on the ball,” Gilson said. “If I have to dive for it, I just go all out for it.” On April 22 against Michigan State, it was a Gilson diving catch that ended the game and sealed a 5-1 victory. The weekend before against Ohio and Akron, it seemed like every other inning, either Patrick or Gilson was in midair going for Ashley Gilson a catch. Gilson said while making the catch is great, the feel of the ground is not friendly, especially when getting to full speed after running 60 feet just to get to the ball. “It hurts most dives because, half the time, I can’t dive right,” she said, jokingly. “It hurts, but I just mostly flop when I try to dive.” At times, Patrick is within 30 feet of a batter swinging full force on a fastball, but she said she has to be ready for every ball. “You just have to relax and know what you are going to do once the ball comes to you,” she said. “You have to be ready for every ball to come at you.” Patrick and freshman Summer Knoop also have been making plays at third on fast grounders hit just down the line. “As a third baseman, you have to steal every single ball,” Patrick said. “You have to think every ball is yours
Central Michigan Life || Wednesday, April 28, 2010 || 9A
file photo by matthew stephens
Junior third baseman Amanda Patrick has a .976 fielding percentage, third-best of all regulars. She has 55 assists and two errors.
“It hurts most dives because, half the time, I can’t dive right. It hurts, but I just mostly flop when I try to dive.” Ashley Gilson, junior left fielder
Top fielders (starters)
Player
%
Jill Schulz
.995
Summer Knoop .977 Amanda Patrick .976 Brogan Darwin
.976
Katie Greenman .964 Brittini Merchant .940 Christina Novak .927 Ashley Gilson
.927
Molly Coldren
.901
because you have a better angle than most of the other players, so you have a better chance of getting the runner.” First baseman Jill Schulz has been helping Patrick and Knoop out as well, scooping up just about everything
thrown to her with a .995 fielding percentage. She has just one error on the season with 205 putouts. Patrick said CMU’s big defensive plays deflate opposing batters and shift the momentum back to CMU. “I think it is the most frustrating thing ever for a batter,” she said. “It just shuts the other team down.” Gilson said making the diving catch just gets her team the emotion it wants every time it comes in from the field, and it tries to turn that catch into big hits. “I feel like it pumps everyone up,” she said. “Not just if I do it, but if anyone else does it. It is a big momentum change when we can get that diving play or great defensive play going into our offense.” The team plays a doubleheader against Buffalo starting at 1 p.m. Friday in Buffalo, N.Y. before playing Kent State on the road Saturday and Sunday. sports@cm-life.com
Sarah Squires did not begin her track and field season in the fashion she wanted to — but she is not letting the obstacles she has faced ruin it. During a workout last spring, the senior tore her planter fascia, the thick tissue band that connects the heel to the toes, in Sara Squires her left foot. Trainers did not believe a tear had occurred, so she continued to compete — or at least try to compete — until an MRI confirmed it. Squires also encountered two stress fractures in the same foot. She cooperated with assistant coach Matt Kaczor and the rest of the staff, which recommended cross-training — nonweight bearing activities that help build strength rather than put pressure on the injury. The two injuries combined put her on crutches for nine weeks. She was unable to run for 12. Along with crutches, she wore a protective boot on that left foot, which enhanced the healing process. “For me, it was easy to sell her on cross-training,” Kaczor said. “We babied that thing because we wanted her to come back and be 100 percent.” With cooperation from Squires and other medical factors, doctors said she could surpass surgery and continue to let it heal on
its own. It came as a sigh of relief to the runner. “Surgery would have knocked me out for my entire senior season,” Squires said. She continued to rehabilitate her left foot with the cross-training and kept herself mentally focused throughout duration of the injury. Along with crosstraining and proper workouts, Squires now uses special foot orthopedics in her shoes for extra support. She wears them all the time for precautionary measures. Although her running abilities are most likely dampened for life, Squires is able to compete in her final season at CMU. “Sarah’s a great team leader for these young ladies,” said coach Willie Randolph. “She’s been very positive and very driven at the same time.” Squires competed in her first event since the injury during the outdoor season and said it is scary to go out and try to run after going through a major injury, especially a foot injury in a runner’s circumstance. “I was very nervous stepping to the line for the first time thinking something would tear again,” she said.
Squires file 2009: Ran career-best time of 4 minutes, 33.94 seconds in the 1,500-meter run.
2008: Took fifth in the mile run in the MAC Championships during the indoor season. Also finished runner-up in the mile run at the Chippewa Open and Jack Skoog Open.
Career bests: 2:16.4 in 800; 4:33.94 in 1,500.
Future Squires’ status for the Jessie Owens Classic in Columbus, Ohio, this weekend is unknown after tweaking the injury this week. Randolph said she may be rested in order to put a healthy team out for Mid-American Conference Championships. “We are always focused on MAC Championships, but we have to be smart and not run her too early,” Randolph said. “We are being very cautious.” sports@cm-life.com
10A || Wednesday, April 28, 2010 || Central Michigan Life
Track and field
Randolph sees progress as first year nears end Coach has firm grasp of how team has progressed By Nick Conklin Staff Reporter
Willie Randolph feverishly punched away at the keys on his cell phone while sitting in his office inside the Indoor Athletic Complex. The coach of the men’s and women’s track and field and cross country program is in constant communication with many of his athletes and staff as he leads the combined program through the duration of the outdoor season. He has set forth goals in the 11 months since taking the reins of the program. He has made clear that his goal is to move the team forward to the top of the Mid-American Conference.
“I don’t like being anything less than (number) one so, for me, until we get to that point, I am not going rest until the conference level is locked up,” Randolph said. Randolph’s track Randolph spent four seasons as an assistant at the University of Louisville, where he played a major role in the recruitment of athletes. This season, he took his team there — the Lenny Lyles/Clark Wood Invitational on April 16, where the team finished third behind the host Cardinals. His return to his former home caused some mixed emotions, he said, as many of the athletes he helped recruit were competing as seniors. “A lot of the kids I recruited are there, so it is my first freshman class that are now seniors, so it’s a very weird feeling,” he said. “You want to support them, but you really can’t.”
cm-life.com/category/sports
[Sports]
His greatest accomplishments on the track to date have been while serving as an assistant coach at Louisville. Working with the sprinters and hurdlers, he was part of the coaching staff that combined the men’s and women’s programs, a system which he implements at CMU. In 2007, he was a part of what was named the Big East coaching staff of the year, following an Outdoor National Championship on the men’s side, as well as a national runner-up on the women’s side. CMU Now Randolph is trying to replicate his success at Louisville — he also had success as a coach at Belmont University, Vanderbilt and the University of New Orleans — at CMU. Almost a year into his role on top of the program, he said he has a firm grasp of where the program is at.
“We have some holes in the program we are trying to fill; at the same time, we have some solid athletes,” he said. Randolph has established a talented coaching staff, including the retention of distance coach Matt Kaczor, while adding newcomers John Ridgway, Glenn Smith, Kristen Paulsen and two-time Olympian Dionne Henley (Jamaica). His focus as the outdoor session winds down is on the placement of his athletes in postseason competition. As athletes are dispersed to different events to gain scores and personal bests, Randolph said he is already thinking toward the future. “Were just building right now; our recruiting is going really well,” he said, “We have some gaps were going to fill for next year.” sports@cm-life.com
Today | continued from 8a
weekend.” Morrow relieved Faiman in the second inning and pitched 4 and 1/3 innings while only allowing two hits and no runs. He also had three strikeouts, his first coming against the first batter he faced, to get the Chippewas out of a five-run second inning for Wayne State. CMU came back in the bottom of the second inning and scored 14 unanswered runs through the sixth inning. Morrow (2-2) got his second win of the season and has had a strong comeback since having surgery on his arm last year. The bullpen has been a consistent positive for the Chippewas with sophomore Trent Howard moving into the closer role and freshman Dietrich Enns sporting a 1.14 earned runs average. Enns is 4-0 and has provided long relief innings when a starter has gotten into trou-
Starters: Tuesday vs. Wayne State: Matt Faiman
Wednesday vs. Oakland: Rick Dodridge
NIU series: Friday: Jesse Hernandez Saturday: Dietrich Enns Sunday: Jake Sabol
ble. Enns will replace Dodridge as Saturday’s starter this weekend, as Dodridge starts tomorrow. “Deitrich has put himself in a good position,” Jaksa said. “We really liked the role he was in, but we wanted to change it up just to change the pace a little bit. Rick (Dodridge) knows what we are doing and he understands and he is happy.” sports@cm-life.com
B
Central Michigan Life
Community
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
[cm-life.com/category/news/metro]
Mount Pleasant still the ‘oil city’
‘ANOTHER SIDE OF WORK I’VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE’
Drillers excited for what’s in store in 2010 despite decline in rigs By Jaimie Cremeans and Heather Hillman Staff Reporters
Photos by sean proctor/staff photographer
Bill Cook, owner of Bob’s Barber Shop on East Michigan Street, sits with fellow barber, Nate Darrow, Friday.
Living A
Double life Mount Pleasant firefighters work in various other trades
ested in firefighting when several members of the MPFD came into the barbershop and got haircuts. Working for himself, Cook said, allows him to be more lenient with firefighting. If he gets a call and does not have a line of customers needing haircuts, he can run out on the call. “If you work at a state job or a
Far from dead Steve Bigard, president of Bigard & Huggard Drilling Inc., is one of only two drilling contractors still based in Mount Pleasant. This number, he said, was about 25 in the 1980s. The industry, however, is far from dead. Bigard’s company, 5580 Venture Way, recently activated two oil wells just north of the Isabella County Fairgrounds in December and January of this year. “We’ve felt the cycles depending on oil pricing — 2007 and 2008 were strong years, while 2009 was a little weaker,” Bigard said. “We’re optimistic for the future in 2010.” Scott Bellinger, managing editor of Michigan Oil and Gas News, said companies are active in the community and have applied for new drilling permits. Because of this, he believes there will continue to be more activity for at least this year and possibly next. “On a broader scale, Mount Pleasant has been considered the oil capital of Michigan because of the activity and many companies based here based on this central location,” Bellinger said. “It’s geographically motivated.” Westbrook said the ups and downs in the industry are mostly because of companies’ worry over new regulations proposed by the national government. President Barack Obama’s support for the Cap and Trade bill, which would steadily decline the limits on the amount of carbon dioxide a company is allowed to emit, has many players in the industry apprehensive about beginning new rigs until they know how the legislation will affect them. “Right now, there a temporary lag in exploration because of uncertainty in regulation aspects,” Westbrook said. “We’re in a valley but, if you look at a long-term graph of the oil industry, every time we hit a valley, we come back and hit a peak higher than
A Firefighter | 4B
A oil | 2B
By David Veselenak | Online Editor Bill Cook, owner of Bob’s Barber Shop downtown, cuts the hair of long-time customer, Tim Murphy, Friday. Cook, a lifelong Mount Pleasant resident, is also a part-time firefighter.
Jake may/staff photographer
Part-time firefighter Bill Cook looks on as a fire hose is laid out and carried during a training exercise in April at the former Soaring Eagle Inn and Conference Center. Cook is also the owner of Bob’s Barbershop on E. Michigan Street.
Cook is just one of several Mount Pleasant Fire Department firefighters that work another job. Some of the other jobs members of the MPFD work include an elementary school teacher and hazardous materials technician. Cook has worked in the barbershop business since 1983. He worked for his father until he took over Bob’s Barber Shop, 211 E. Michigan St., 15 years ago.
“My dad started (cutting hair) at the university back in 1955 until 1960. Back then, he didn’t have a lot of money. He couldn’t afford to go to a trade school,” he said. “He worked the shop by himself, and he asked me if I wanted to do it.” Another side of work Jeff Pickler, a code enforcement officer for Mount Pleasant and former detective sergeant
B
ill Cook almost died working his parttime job as a firefighter nearly 20 years ago. The Union Township resident arrived at the scene of a fire at the former downtown business, Lee’s Bridal Shop, and went in. There were moments it seemed he would never come out. “I was 30 seconds away from the roof collapsing,” he said. “We got to the bottom of the stairway and the whole thing collapsed in.” Cook’s first love, however, wasn’t fighting fires. He went into something a little less dangerous — cutting hair. “I decided to go to school for one year to be a barber,” he said. “You make a decent living. You won’t be rich, but you’ll make a decent living. That’s why I do other things.”
for the Central Michigan University Police of 35 years, has worked as a firefighter for 25 years, 13 for Mount Pleasant and 12 for Fremont and Deerfield townships. “It’s another side of work I’ve never seen before,” said Pickler. “We come to the table from all different walks of life and bring a lot of different knowledge to it.” Cook said he became inter-
Oil ran thick through the veins of midMichigan decades ago. Some might say much has not changed despite that fewer drills are cropping up over the region’s many fields. Jack Westbrook, author of “A History of Michigan Oil and Gas Exploration and Production,” said 64 of the 68 counties in Michigan’s lower peninsula have had oil drills headquartered in Mount Pleasant. “Though later years have seen the intensity of field activity shift elsewhere in the state,” he said, “Mount Pleasant remains a viable center of petroleum industry activity with 98 business entities with Mount Pleasant addresses.” Westbrook said a lot of people do not realize Mount Pleasant is still referred to as the oil capital of Michigan. The Oil & Gas Journal reported in January that 2009 was a “roller coaster drilling year,” with the number of rigs in the U.S. down 42 percent from 2008. In 2006, the number of wells in the nation was estimated to be 38,238 by this year, according to the American Petroleum Institute. That is down by about 55 percent from 1981, when the number of wells was counted at 84,983.
michigan politics
New proposal looks to change nomination process Idea is among many issues to require constitution redraft By Ryan Czachorski Senior Reporter
Changing the way candidates for some state positions are nominated is one of many items that could change following November’s election. The proposal, spurred by state Rep. Mark Meadows, D-East Lansing, calls for candidates to be nominated through a primary election in
August as opposed to being named through party conventions. It applies to positions such as Michigan’s secretary of state and attorney general. State Rep. Bill Caul, RMount Pleasant, said the voters of the state will need to make their feelings on the subject known. “I’m certainly open to it if the voters of the state want it,” Caul said. “If they want it to go through the voting process, they can certainly push for it.” The party conventions’ nominations come from delegates, which are supposed to represent their districts over
any personal interests, Caul said. The proposal would put the power in the hands of the voters, which Meadows said is a plus. “It’s just my view that with more people involved, the better the result will be,” Meadows said. “I’d rather have them chosen from an election than from the back room of a convention hall.” Meadows said the issue should be brought up soon to state legislators, but no date has been set yet. Potential costs Caul said he was not worried
about the extra cost of holding more primary elections, as elections are already held in August and adding a few more items to it would only result in a marginal difference in cost. But making the change from party nomination to elected nominee would require a change to the state constitution, which requires two-thirds of the House and Senate before being put to a general election. The proposal could find its way onto the constitution without all the hurdles if state voters elect to redraft the constitution this November.
A measure to redraft the constitution is on the ballot every sixteen years. College Democrats President Brad O’Donnell said he is unsure where he stands on redrafting the constitution, but he thinks the measure faces an uphill battle. “If you look at our state government, it’s in shambles, so that might be enough to get people to vote in favor of a constitutional convention,” the Clinton Township junior said. Caul said he thinks the state has more pressing concerns at the present time than holding
a costly constitutional convention. “I just think given the cost of that right now, we have other priorities in Michigan, like balancing the budget,” Caul said. “My preference would be no.” He noted that the state constitution may have its flaws, but works fine for now.
Other possible changes If voters decide to change the constitution, Meadows said a number of hot-button issues will be looked at again.
A proposal | 2B
2B || Wednesday, April 28, 2010 || Central Michigan Life
cm-life.com/category/news/metro
[Community] F a m i ly F o c u s
Empathy goes further than sympathy for child counselors
The Projects w 1. Reconstruction of Michigan Street from Fancher to Mission w 2. Reconstruction of Bellows from Mission Street to Lansing Street w
3. New overlay of Mission Road from Millbrook Road to Deerfield Road
w
4. New left-turn lane at the intersection of Pickard Street and Isabella Road
w 5. Construction on US-127 North of Mount Pleasant to Clare
Warm weather = orange barrels By Hilary Farrell Staff Reporter
A number of Mount Pleasant streets are getting facelifts this summer. Traffic projects include the completion of the Michigan Department of Transportation’s US-127 redesign from last year and the addition of a mini circle on Arnold Street, as well as renovations of Bellows Street. Isabella County and Mount Pleasant will reconstruct and resurface roads, including portions of Isabella Road, Michigan and Broomfield streets. City Asphalt overlays and sewer relining dominate city road construction projects this summer, with little disruption to traffic, said Public Works Director Duane Ellis. These projects already began, Ellis said, and take one work day to complete. “These are major (for the city), but not a big travel impact,” Ellis said. The city will reconstruct
oil | continued from 1B
the one before. The oil industry should overcome it.” A long history The first oil field was struck on Feb. 27, 1928, in Mount Pleasant. Westbrook said this oil strike by the Pure Oil Company ended up being the fourth largest in Michigan history. He considers it a rich history for Mount Pleasant. In the early 1900s, many oil companies came to Michigan to explore the land in search of the black gold. Between 1900 and 1925, 80 wells had been drilled in the state, but they had little success and many of people began to think the idea of the state being a big producer was wrong. Faith was restored in Michigan’s oil potential in 1925, when oil was struck in Saginaw. After Pure Oil Company found the Mount Pleasant Oil Field in 1928, Westbrook said
Michigan Street from Fancher to Mission, focusing on narrowing lanes and adding bike lanes. Michigan Street will have bump-out parking by next school year, Ellis said. The city will bid the Michigan Street project May 7, he said. Bellows Street will be reconstructed from Mission Street to Lansing Street, Ellis said, and the city will add a mini-circle at Arnold Street. “We’re bidding this as a separate project (from the downtown-to-campus connector),” Ellis said. “This has a fair impact on university operations, the city and students.” County Isabella County’s focus this summer is on reconstruction, said Managing Director Tony Casali. Mission Road from Milllbrook to Deerfield roads in Union Township will receive a new overlay, he said. “There are a couple of bad spots we have to work out in there,” Casali said. An additional left-turn lane will be added at the intersection of Pickard Street and Isabella Road, he said, as well as the city was booming with production almost overnight. He said the field ended up producing 29 million barrels of oil altogether. “The Mount Pleasant Field is credited with essentially shielding the town of Mount Pleasant from the Great Depression,” he said. Between 1929 and 1941, the brunt of the Depression, Michigan produced 160 million barrels of crude oil, producing $166,592,000 for the Michigan economy. But the industry’s growth still held consequences — seven people were killed in July 1931, when an oil well exploded over a crowd of 2,000 people. In February 2002, a Mount Pleasant man was killed in a drill-related accident. According to previous Central Michigan Life reports, Earl Wilson III, 31, was killed when a spinning power shaft attached to a drill caught his clothing. A companion of Wilson’s told CM Life he loved the
fixed without a constituproposal | get tional convention,” Ling said. “The tax system is a mess.”
continued from 1B
He identified controversial measures from the past few elections, such as the banning of affirmative action and same-sex marriages in Michigan. But any consequences are unknown because it would put every current part of the constitution up for reexamination. “I think that there is other damage that could be done to the constitution that we can’t predict right now,” Meadows said. “It’ll be a battle royale.” State Sen. Tom George, R-Kalamazoo, said that he thinks the tax and Medicaid systems should be reworked if the constitution is redrafted in his February speech at Central Michigan University. George is not the only one who feels the tax system needs restructuring. Mount Pleasant City Commissioner Kathy Ling told Central Michigan Life in January 2009 she thought the tax system could only be fixed through a constitutional convention, a feeling she still holds. “My feeling was and is that there are a few pretty significant issues that aren’t going to
metro@cm-life.com
shoulder widening on Isabella Road. The county receives requests from 16 townships, Casali said. “We still will have other projects as they trickle in,” he said. MDOT Several projects occur this summer through MDOT’s Mount Pleasant Transportation Service Center, said Manager Terry Palmer. Along with the completion of last year’s US-127 venture, the branch will tackle a section of the highway from North of Mount Pleasant to Clare, he said. A section of M-20 in Midland County also is being resurfaced that began Monday according to MDOT’s website. The Mount Pleasant TSC covers work in Isabella, Midland, Clare, Gladwin and Gratiot counties. Further projects will take place this summer as well, Palmer said. “It’s a good average (of work) for five county areas,” he said. “It’s probably $30 million worth of work this year.”
oil industry.
There are 1,500 reports of suspected child abuse and nearly 100 children enter foster care annually in Isabella County. Karen Armstrong, Farmington Hills senior It is issues such as these that the Child and Family Enrichment Council, 3333 S. Lincoln Road, exists to feelings. You go through all change in some of our clihandle, a task many might this parent education and ents, how far some of them be unaware of in the area. there are all these break- have come,” the Westphalia Director Dee Obrecht throughs,” she said. “Ev- senior said. “Recently, one said the counseling work eryone thinks that their of our clients was reunited the organization performs way is the best way to par- with her son and that was is what helps keep so many ent, (but) if you didn’t have really exciting for me.” children with their parents. good parenting yourself The program focuses “It tears apart families then why should you be a around awareness of risk because over 90 percent of good parent?” factors and taking steps assaults on kids happen by to protect their children, someone they know,” she Reunions and rewards Obrecht said. CAFE works said. “If the family is willing The family counseling to collaborate with other to work with us and learn program is open to anyone groups that might be helpfrom the services the kids in Isabella County, but it is ing their clients, including can be returned home.” one of many state programs substance abuse and anger But more recently, the feeling the budget crunch, management groups. group provided job expe- Mitchell said. Obrecht said she has rience for several Central The programs are only improved her relationship Michigan University stu- effective with a 10- to 12- with her children as a result dents. person group, so families of working at CAFE. Farmington Hills senior can stay on the waiting list “I now realize that I’m Karen Armstrong is one for weeks waiting for an not the only one who goes of them and, now, family opening that fits into their through the problems I counseling is a regular part schedule. have,” she said. “There has of life for her. Seeing the parent and been a positive change be“We sit in on parent child reunion can be the tween my children and mymeetings and we help out most rewarding part of the self.” parents who cannot really job, said Kendall Thelen, read or understand what another student intern. metro@cm-life.com the teacher is saying,” Arm“(I enjoy) just seeing the strong said. “I’ve learned that empathy is a lot more important, and goes a lot The “that guy in your chemistry further, than sympathy.” class finally noticed you” bagel. Parenting classes are one of many services offered by CAFE, said treasurer Lise Mitchell. They consist of group meetings and one-on-one meetings with counselors, she 2024 S. Mission St. said. Pleasant 2024 S.Mt. Mission St. 20 Mt. Pleasant (989) 772-9555 Group meetings give You deserve a better bagel. You deserve989-772-9555 a better bagel. www.babcorp.com a feeling of camaraderie www .babcorp.com w you deserve a better bagel. and peer support to the parents in the program, $ $S. Mission 49 $ $ 49 49 St. Breakfast 2024 Mitchell said, while the Bagel & Mt. Pleasant You deserve a betterSandwich bagel.Sandwich Bagel & Cream Breakfast Breakfast Sandwich small meetings allow the 989-772-9555 CreamBagel coffee with the purchase of a coffee Cheese Ch .babcorp.com the purchase www parents to check up on with the purchase of awith Cheese of a coffee their individual progress. $Onespecial 49 Only one coupon per visit. Coupon is not redeemable with any Only Only one $ coupon one coupon per49 visit. per Coupon visit. Coupon is not isredeemable not redeemable with any with any Only one coupon per visit. coupon per visit. Cannot combined with One coupon per visit. Cannot combined withor special off coupon or offer. No reproduction allowed.be Valid other other coupon coupon or special or special offer. offer. No reproduction No reproduction allowed. allowed. Validbe Valid other coupon “You can know that other only at Mt.other Pleasant location. ©2010 BAB, Inc. Expires 6/30/10. only atonly Mt.atPleasant Mt.other Pleasant location. location. ©2010 ©2010 BAB, Inc. BAB, Inc. Expires 6/30/10. only at Mt. Pleasant offers. No reproductions. offers. No reproductions. at Mt. Pleasant location only. Valid at Mt. Pleasant location only. you are not alone in yourBreakfastValid Bagel & Cream Sandwich
The “ that guyThe in your “ that guy in chemistry class chemistry finally class f noticed you” noticed you” The “ thatbagel. guy in your bagel. chemistry class finally noticed you” bagel.
149 1 1
Offer expires: 6/30/10
Code SU4
1149 1
Offer expires: Offer expires: 6/30/106/30/10
$
Offer expires: 6/30/10
metro@cm-life.com
PARTY STORE
Road work taking place this summer
“We sit in on parent meetings and we help out parents who cannot really read or understand what the teacher is saying.”
By Maryellen Tighe Senior Reporter
Code SU4
1
Offer expires: 6/30/10
Cheese
Only one coupon per visit. Coupon is not redeemable with any other coupon or special offer. No reproduction allowed. Valid only at Mt. Pleasant location. ©2010 BAB, Inc.
Only one coupon per visit. Coupon is not redeemable with any other coupon or special offer. No reproduction allowed. Valid only at Mt. Pleasant location. ©2010 BAB, Inc.
773-6652
773-3331
Pickard Party Store 773-6448
M-W 9-12am Th-Sat 9-1am Sun 12pm-12am
1635 E. BROOMFIELD RD. BROOMFIELD MALL
M-W 9-12am Th-Sat 9-1:30am Sun 12pm-12am
BOTTLE & BARREL
Miller High Life Light 24-pk bottles
5114 EAST PICKARD
10.99*
$
.......
Labatt Blue & Light 18-pk cans
.........
10.99*
$
Busch Light 18-pk cans
. . . . . . . . . . $8.99*
222 SOUTH WASHINGTON PBR Tallboy 12-pk , 24 oz. cans DOWNTOWN
M-Th 8am-11pm Fri-Sat 8am-12am Sun 12pm-10pm
1
Code SU4
with the purchase of a coffee
hours:
Offer expires: 6/30/10
$
BILL PAYMENT CENTER AT Bottle & Barrel PARTY STORE
Code SU4 Code SU4
Miller Light
. . . . . $ 10.99* ......
$
13.99*
......
$
62.99*
20-pk bottles
Busch Light Half Barrel
Fit into that swimsuit by summer! Your pick! Only $4/pita: • • • •
Fresh Thinking Healthy Eating!
Chicken breast pita BLT pita Turkey pita Veggie pita
IN STORE ONLY. MUST PRESENT COUPON. EXP: 5/8/2010
$
4 PITAS only @
Pita Pit Mount Pleasant
The
Open later than mom would like. Til 3am Thurs. Fri. Sat.
-
A-1620 Mission St. Campus Court Mall
-
989-773-1177
cm-life.com/category/news/metro
[community]
Central Michigan Life || Wednesday, April 28, 2010 || 3B
Experts predict state job growth Economists say Michigan should employ 20,400 By Jaimie Cremeans Staff Reporter
photos by Paige calamari/xstaff photographer
Mount Pleasant residents Allan Tucker (left), Larry McDevitt (center), and David Moore (right) discuss an upcoming golfing trip Tuesday morning at the Low Rider Cafe, 4749 E. Pickard St. The men, who meet nearly every morning for coffee or breakfast, began coming to the Low Rider Cafe after another local restaurant closed.
Restaurant complements bike shop Low Rider Café doesn’t fit motorcycle stereotype By Maryellen Tighe Senior Reporter
A restaurant to complement a body shop might seem strange to some people. But it is working for Kathy and Jim Stovak. Jim owns and operates C & S Sports Center, 4741 E. Pickard Road. His customers often wanted a place to go for food while he was working on their bike, and he would send them down the street to the Green Spot Pub. “They would drop their bike off in service and say, ‘Where can I go to get a beer and a burger?’” Jim Stovak said. Their questions were answered with a more convenient location when the Low Rider Café opened next door, 4749 E. Pickard St., about two and a half years ago. “It was a Thai restaurant. We just decided to turn it into a biker-themed restaurant,” Kathy said. “I grew up riding motorcycles. When I got my drivers license I got my motorcycle license, too, and I’ve always enjoyed cooking, so it just goes hand in hand.” When the restaurant was first getting started, it was nice because there was always someone next door to call on for reinforcements if things got busy, Kathy said. Her specialty is home cooking, which she perfected in her previous restaurant, Kathy’s Kitchen.
Mount Pleasant resident Howard Pohl (center) laughs with friends as they discuss an upcoming golfing trip Tuesday morning at the Low Rider Cafe, 4749 E. Pickard St. The men, who meet nearly every morning for coffee or breakfast, began coming to the Low Rider Cafe after another local restaurant closed.
Bucking the stereotype Low Rider Café does not fit the motorcycle stereotype, Kathy Stovak said — a stereotype that, she thinks, is unearned. When the restaurant first opened, an old lady came in and was confused by the restaurant, Kathy said. The lady heard the restaurant was smoky and full of unruly bikers. “I said, ‘We have bikers come in here, but they’re not bad people,’” Kathy said. “And we’ve never allowed smoking.” Smokers still come to the restaurant. There are a few brave enough to sit on the deck, piled high with blankets on cold days, to eat their breakfast omelettes, Kathy said. Two regulars are Mount Pleasant residents and brothers Sam
and Ross Hart, who have been coming since the restaurant opened. “We each own Harleys, so we’re next door. When the other restaurant closed and this one opened, we both decided to come in and try it,” Ross said. The café is one of many Mount Pleasant businesses participating in “Bike Night,” Kathy said. This year, they will host the July 15 and Sept. 16 nights. “The first one was just like, ‘Oh my gosh!’ we were overwhelmed. It’s just unreal. The deck is full, it’s standing room only,” Kathy said. “The people want to get a bike night established in Mount Pleasant. The camaraderie of the bikes and the bikers is a good thing.” metro@cm-life.com
Census workers go door to door By Maryellen Tighe Senior Reporter
Area census workers are hitting the streets at the end of this week. Now that the deadline for submitting the 2010 U.S. Census forms has passed, workers will travel door-to-door to visit people who have not responded, said Lydia Este, local census office manager. They will focus on the area with the lowest response rate in Isabella County, which includes the student housing of Central Michigan University’s campus. This section had a 66 percent return rate and runs from east and south campus to east of 127. The next lowest section, with a 73 percent return rate, contains north campus and the towers student housing, and goes west to Whiteville Road. “If you compare our return rates to other universities around the state, we’re actually doing pretty well,” said Julie Swidwinski, community information coordinator for the city of Mount Pleasant. Ferris State University in Big Rapids had a 54 percent return rate, according to the Take 10 Map of U.S. Census Bureau. Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo had return rates ranging from 65 to 72 percent. The Mount Pleasant area had a 77 percent response rate as of Tuesday. The paper response rate in 2000 was 66 percent, Swidwinski said. “The 77 percent is basically the U.S. Census Bureau’s way of tracking the number of forms they have sent out that have been returned,” she said. “We’re just happy to see at this point that our response rate has increased since 2000.” The low response rate for the areas around CMU’s campus has translated into the lowest response rates in Isabella County for Union Township and Mount
Return Rates How does CMU stack up? w Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti: 45-56% w Ferris State University, Big Rapids: 54% w University of Michigan, Ann Arbor: 62-73% w Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo: 65-72% w Central Michigan University: 66-73% w Northern Michigan University, Marquette: 81% w Grand Valley State University, Allendale: 73-85% Pleasant — 70 percent. The rest of Isabella County had return rates from 75 to 85 percent. Jeff Gray, the city’s director of planning and community development, said Mount Pleasant is taking steps to increase the student response rate. “What we were trying to do is get a complete and accurate count and having this kind of response rate really ensures we’re going to get that,” he said. “We saw some real significant responses this year over the 2000 response rate.” Union Township is hoping the investment the city made will
encourage township residents to turn in their census as well, said township Supervisor John Barker. The township expected traditional residents to respond before students. “We have spoken with the census people and confirmed that they need to do the house visits in late April/early May because of when the semester ends,” Barker said. “We will not know how good the census will do this year until they’re done with the door-todoor survey.” metro@cm-life.com
Michigan’s economy is likely to turn around in 2011 after years of decline, according to economists at the University of Michigan. George Fulton, director of UM’s Research Seminar in Quantitative Economics, said he has been forecasting economic trends since 1952. Fulton said Michigan will experience job growth for the first time in 10 years when he made his predictions earlier this month. He said the state should add about 20,400 jobs altogether next year. “Forecasting is hardly an exact science, so there is always risk that we can miss the mark by some degree,” he said. “Our forecast record is fairly good, though.” Brian Anderson, president of the Middle Michigan Development Corporation, said he was very happy to hear Fulton’s predictions and he hopes they turn out to be true. He said his organization does not make economic predictions, but he knows Fulton’s group has a good reputation. “I really hope this signals that we’ve finally hit the bottom,” he said. “A growing job base means it will be easier for investors to choose Michigan because we will no longer be viewed as a ‘sinking ship.’” Fulton said predictions for Michigan is consistent with, and probably a product of, a positive outlook on the U.S. economy. He said it will be a factor of an increasing automobile market and less trouble in the housing market. The main job growth, he said, will come from about 26,000 jobs added in health care, business and professional services, and private education in 2011. He also
said manufacturing will begin to stabilize, as he predicts a loss of 9,000 jobs in 2010 and then a gain of 9,000 in 2011. “The turnaround in business services reflects an improving commercial environment,” he said, “including a more favorable scenario for a temporary help industry that struggled until late 2009.” Still far away Fulton does, however, predict a loss of jobs in the public sector for next year. He said between 2010 and 2011 the public sector should lose about 17,000 jobs, including those in local units of government and public schools. Anderson said even with
a positive projection for the near future, Michigan is still “far from where we need to be.” He said the state’s citizens still have a lot of work to do to get back to a stable economic level. Fulton also said it will be a while before Michigan is back to the economic level the state was at a decade ago, before the long streak of job losses. “We don’t forecast out (past next year),” he said. “I can say with some confidence, though, that we will not return to the job levels we saw in Michigan in 2000 until at least some year in the decade of the 2020s.” metro@cm-life.com
4B || Wednesday, April 28, 2010 || Central Michigan Life
City Commission postpones making tax abatement district Commissioners unsure if it’s the best idea right now By David Veselenak Online Editor
Mount Pleasant officials are not ready to move forward just yet with the creation of a tax abatement district along Pickard Street. The district would be a place where taxes to business owners are reduced for a specific period of time, presumably to encourage business. City Commissioners held a public hearing at their Monday meeting, where Brian Anderson from P&A Development spoke in support of establishing the tax abatement district between 560 and 614 Pickard St. Several commissioners were skeptical of the idea. “Recent studies have indicated we’ve read too much into them,” said Commissioner Kathy Ling. The commission voted 5-0 to postpone a decision. Mayor Jim Holton excused himself from the vote, since his business, the Mount Pleasant Brewing Company, is within the proposed district. Vice Mayor Bruce Kilmer was not in attendance. P&A Development proposed the properties along Pickard Street would become a 12-year, 50 percent
“I’m at the point where I’ve always supported them ... but some of the reports ... state that some of these abatements are becoming a thing of the past. I do think we owe it to our constituents that we hold ourselves accountable for what we do up here.” Sharon Tilmann, city commissioner tax abatement district. Commissioner Sharon Tilmann said she supports the general idea of the districts, but was not sure one would be the best idea locally right now. “I’m at the point where I’ve always supported them ... but some of the reports ... state that some of these abatements are becoming a thing of the past,” she said. “I do think we owe it to our constituents that we hold ourselves accountable for what we do up here.” Other business The commission approved a one-year lease with Airport Road Real Estate for property currently used by Pohlcat, 6595 E. Airport Road. The leased land, which contains holes 1 and 2 of the golf course, is owned by the city, but usually is leased in 10year increments. The cur-
rent lease ends Sunday. Tilmann had concerns regarding the location of the property, which she said could be within close range of the Chippewa River, which changes the way the city leases property. “There will be individuals out there that will say it’s a cause for concern,” she said. “They are going to ask, ‘what about the 100 feet of the river?’” Duane Ellis, director of public works, said there are no issues with the property and the river. “It’s away from the river,” he said. “It’s not adjacent to that property.” The commission also postponed approving a loan to Total Eclipse Design, 110 E. Broadway St., through the revolving loan program. metro@cm-life.com
Award-winning actress sells out May CMU appearance Patty Duke plans to discuss bipolar struggles By Hilary Farrell Staff Reporter
Academy Award-winning actress and mental health advocate Patty Duke will speak next month to a soldout Plachta Auditorium. Twelve hundred people are coming to Central Michigan University’s campus at 7 p.m. May 7 for the free event, “Have You Met Anna? An Evening with Patty Duke.” “She is very popular,” said Community Event Assistant Lori Apple. “We are glad we chose her.” Duke will discuss her struggle with bipolar depression, according to a news release. This event is brought to Mount Pleasant by Community Mental Health for Central Michigan, and is made possible by a grant received by the CMHCM, Apple said. “This is part of a local ef-
fort to help normalize and increase awareness (of mental illness,)” said Customer Service Repr e s e n t a - Patty Duke tive Julie Rookard. Duke’s reputation caused the free event to “sell out” of tickets two weeks ago, Apple said. Duke is known in the acting world for performances in “The Miracle Worker,” “The Patty Duke Show,” “Me, Natalie,” “My Sweet Charlie” and “Captains and the Kings.” She received a total of 12 awards for her numerous roles, including an Oscar, and an additional 14 nominations. In 1987, Duke opened up to the world about her struggle with bipolar disorder in her autobiography, “Call Me Anna.” The book was made into a film in 1990, and Duke acted as herself in the picture. Later in 1992, Duke published “A Brilliant Madness:
firefighter | continued from 1B
job where you cannot leave your job, you’re only available for 12, 14 hours a day,” he said. “Most of us are available 24/7.”’ Part-time firefighters are required to go on 30 percent of runs, and part-time captains are required to go on 50 percent. Pickler, a part-time captain, said working for the city as a code enforcement officer allows him to go more freely to fire scenes, as opposed to the CMU Police, where he said would take time off to go on runs. Fire Chief Greg Walterhouse said the wide range of talent adds to the department. If one is a plumber, he said, they usually help out with the station repairs. “All of them bring a different experience and expertise,” he said. “And you can draw on that expertise. If you need a small repair at the station, they’ll do that for you.” Pickler said he once had to set the record straight about working two different jobs. His son’s teacher asked him what his father did for a living, and told her a police officer and a firefighter.
“The teacher said he could only be one or the other,” he said. “So I met
cm-life.com/category/news/metro
[community]
Living with Manic Depressive Illness,” specifically detailing her life with bipolar disorder. Duke continues an acting career today and speaks at forums to educate others. Apple said a mission of the CMHCM is to erase negative thoughts in the community about mental disorders. “There is a stigma attached to mental illness,” she said. The CMHCM oversees activities in six counties, Apple said, and looks to create a documentary to show to classrooms and various community meetings. “We’re trying to do as much as we can,” she said. Approximately one in five people suffer from a mental disease, Apple said. “If we can all just do our part to help in recovery, that’s really the ultimate goal,” she said. “An Evening with Patty Duke” will feature opportunities for questions and book signing for attendees. metro@cm-life.com
with the teacher the next day and gave her a little bit of education.” metro@cm-life.com
English professor seeks to impact county’s Human Rights Committee Maureen Eke looks to link CMU to community By Edward Schutter Staff Reporter
Becoming a member of Isabella County’s Human Rights Committee was a chance for Maureen Eke to be another voice for Central Michigan University. Eke, an English professor, was recently added to the HRC after applying earlier this semester and being accepted by the County Board of Commissioners. She said diversity has always been an area of interest for her and looks forward to helping solve issues. “It is important to have voices from the university, and I am acting as a liaison between the HRC and CMU,” Eke said. “Hopefully, I can bring the Human Rights Committee the issues from CMU.” Eke is a Nigeria native who serves as president of the African Literature Association. She said many people view CMU and the Mount Pleasant community as separate things. Eke would like to see a closer relationship between the two. “The reality is that CMU is part of the community,” she said. “I would like to see a more cohesive relationship between CMU and Mount Pleasant.” One issue Eke hopes to figure out is why students decide to come to CMU based on community factors. “It is important for us to understand how the community affects students’ decisions to come here,” she said. HRC Vice Chairperson Carole Richardson said Eke brings experience and a great knowledge of CMU issues. “Dr. Eke has been a faculty member at CMU for over 15 years and, therefore, brings a deep understanding of the university to the HRC,” Richardson said. Richardson said Eke brings a vast knowledge of African
culture and understanding which is important to the committee. “Dr. Eke’s understanding of issues surrounding gender, particularly within the African Diaspora, will help ensure the HRC is sensitive to and understands challenges in this area,” she said. “Also, because she has demonstrated strong commitment to human rights and equity, we look forward to her making valuable contributions to the work of the HRC.” Eke said diversity is an important element in any community whether it be a university or town. “Diversity shows community,” she said. “We want to establish a linkage between CMU and the community.” The HRC is still going through some early stages of development. Richardson said the com-
mittee is always trying to listen to issues of not only CMU, but the whole community to establish a beneficiary environment. “We look forward to working with CMU on issues that jointly benefit the citizens of the greater Isabella County area and the members of the university community who live, work and study within its boundaries,” she said. Jeannie Jackson, director in the Office of Civil Rights and Institutional Equity at CMU and member of the HRC, said her goals for HRC are focused on the community. “My HRC goals for the community are different than those for CMU,” she said. “I’m not acting, necessarily, as a CMU representative, but as a community person.” metro@cm-life.com
6B || Wednesday, April 28, 2010 || Central Michigan Life
TOP FIVES
NEW STUFF
Box office:
DVDs:
1. “How to Train Your Dragon” $15.4 million 2. “The Back-up Plan” $12.2 million 3. “Date Night” $10.5 million 4. “The Losers” $9.41 million 5. “Kick-Ass” $9.34 million
1. “It’s Complicated” 2. “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus” 3. “Tombstone (Blu-ray)”
Singles: 1. “Nothin’ On You” B.o.B ft. Bruno Mars 2. “Rude Boy” Rihanna 3. “Hey, Soul Sister” Train 4. “Break Your Heart” Taio Cruz Featuring Ludacris 5. “Need You Now” Lady Antebellum
Albums: 1. “My World 2.0” Justin Bieber 2. “Congratulations” MGMT 3. “Need You Now” Lady Antebellum 4. “Raymond V Raymond” Usher 5. “Year Of The Black Rainbow” Coheed And Cambria
CDs: 1. “Fearless Love” Melissa Etheridge 2. “The Age of Miracles” Mary-Chapin Carpenter 3. “Nobody’s Daughter” Hole
Video games: 1. “Super Street Fighter IV” (Playstation 3) 2. “Record of Agarest War Limited Edition” (Xbox 360) 3. “2010 FIFA World Cup by Electronic Arts” (Playstation 3)
local band spotlight
Blacktop Musical cycles members, but still rocking By Michael L. Hoffman Staff Reporter
Blacktop Musical is a band unlike many others. It primarily includes guitarist and vocalist Chris Belanger and guitarist, mandolin player Jake Neher. Over the past few years, a “revolving door” policy has been in place for members. “The original conception of Blacktop Musical wasn’t really supposed to be a band, at least not in the traditional sense,” Belanger said. “I’d like to think of it as a bunch of friends getting together and contributing whatever they can to each other’s music.” The Riverview senior said Blacktop Musical would not be the same without musical
input from friends. “We are lucky enough to have very close friends that are talented musicians in Mount Pleasant, and they have great music of their own that we try to contribute to as well,” he said. Kris Harrison, a friend of the band and member of the rock group Brewheist, joined Belanger and Neher on stage at the band’s last show. It was his first time playing with Blacktop Musical and he said it was fun, though challenging. “It’s always a risk but, if both parties go in with the right attitude, it usually works out,” the Macomb junior said. “Everyone said we sounded good, so I suppose it worked out this time.”
RYAN’S RANT Bro’s and popped collars As I walked into a restaurant my friends and I frequent, I was greeted by a waiter sporting a popped collar and two shiny earrings. Already questioning his integrity as a human being, he said something that left me trembling in rage: "Yo brah, what can I get ya?" I looked at him with a mix of pity and contempt, doing everything within my power to avoid a fit of anger that would
cm-life.com/category/vibe
[VIBE]
Ryan Taljonick Staff Reporter surely lead to spontaneous combustion. Unfortunately, I was addressed as "bro" or "brah" throughout the entirety of my stay. This is not an episode of "Jersey Shore." I am not interested
in participating in a bromantic evening of chest-bumping, fistpumping and high-fiving while listening to Nickelback and drinking ‘Natty Ice.’ When did collar-popping become awesome? Since when is it publicly acceptable to acknowledge your friends, and even people you don’t know, by all sorts of "bro-nouns"? There is a time and place for everything, except for collarpopping and bro-culture. The next time you start to let your inner "bro" take over, do us all a favor: don’t.
Belanger agreed. “To have those guys hop on stage with us and jam to songs they had never even heard before was a blast. Performance art of any kind, particularly music, is shared communication and shared experience. It’s a privilege to be able to play this music for people with some of our best friends,” he said. ‘A Crown for Every Refugee’ Neher and Belanger said they are working on a new album — “A Crown for Every Refugee” — that they plan to release in either late May or early June. Belanger expects it to be much different from their self-titled debut.
“It’s quite different from our last album in the sense that it incorporates more diverse instrumentation as well as a more traditional folk approach to song-writing,” he said. Neher agreed, saying that the album was grown out of organic jam sessions in his apartment with Belanger. “We would just get up, start playing whatever guitar or mandolin parts we had lying around, or we would just come up with something on the spot,” the Bloomfield Township senior said. “It was as collaborative as song writing could possibly get, which is what really made the songs on this record special for us.” studentlife@cm-life.com