Thecauldron10th by Steve Thomas

The

Cauldron Volume 106 No.10 | March 24, 2008

STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY SINCE 1929

Spring Is Here! NOW WHAT DO WE DO By Andrea Mitchell

The

Cauldron

Contents

“For the Students...By The Students”

Editor-In-Chief Managing Editor Advertising Manager Advertising Rep. News Editor Culture Editor Sports Editor Layout Editor & Web Designer Cartoonist Business Manager

Volume 106 No.10 | March 24, 2008

THIS WEEK’S FEATURE

SPRING IS HERE! While the weather outside is still painfully frightful the fact remains that it is now officially spring. With Easter over and, hopefully, nicer weather on the way, Clevelanders will soon have the opportunity for outdoor activity once again. After being snowed in several times this winter (who’ll forget the near blizzard a couple of weeks ago that sure felt like a full fledged blizzard!) everyone is suffering from a little bit of cabin fever. Soon the warm weather will touch Clevelanders and we’ll be wearing our light jackets and leaving the scarves and mittens behind.

Andrea Mitchell Laura Dynda Jayson Gerbec Katie Shoemaker Ebony Cash Ilona Westfall Nick Camino Steve Thomas Michael Quintero Anne Werner

Staff Writers: Reid May Mark Jablonski Faith Larraine Jamie DuBois Mark Katzbach Chris Enoch Scott Arko Robert Ivory Sabrina Peacock Roman Verzub Emily Ouzts Whitney Maddox-Foster Dan Hallowell Shanette D. Buford Contributing Francis X. Bova III Writers: Sairah Zaidi M.P. Beller The Melting Pot The Cauldron reserves the right to edit letters for space and clarity. All entries must include your name, year-in-school, and daytime phone number for verification purposes. All entries must be submitted by Friday at 5 p.m. To Submit Editorials, Articles , Etc.: cauldroneditors@hotmail.com Campus Life Releases 100 words or less: Organization name and phone number must be included. Releases are for student organizations only and should include the event date, time, and location.

SECTIONS THE MELTING POT A Winter Weather Dilemma << Barack Obama’s Catch 22 The Bullhorn Letter To The Editor

NEWS SGA Meeting << UC Closing Party Candidates Address Empty Room Fingerhut Abandons Merger

CULTURE << 32ND International

Film Festival Are They Worth a Listen? Does America refuse to have a Homosexual American Idol?

SPORTS << Vikings Lace-up

Dancing Shoes For First Time

Vikings N.I.T. Run Short Lived

Letters to the Editor 800 words or less: Letters must be in response to a written article or campus issue. Student Columns 600-800 words: Columns can be submitted by students regarding campus issues, positive or negative, and will be sent directly to President Schwartz in order to bring more student awareness. Advertising Policy For advertising inquiries e-mail cauldronadvertisements@hotmail.com or call (216) 687-2270. Contact Us: Cleveland State University 4th Floor Cole Center Cleveland, Ohio 44115 (216) 687-2270 / (216) 687-5155 www.csucauldron.com

Monday March 24, 2008 The Cauldron

The Melting Pot

A Winter Weather Dilemma: One Skier’s story By Laura Dynda

inter has always been my favorite season. I have always enjoyed the cold air, the snow and of course the anticipation

of snow days. It was this year that I have been disappointed in the erratic behavior of Cleveland weather of it being cold one minute and warm the next. As an avid skier, I was disappointed to not have been able to go as much as I would have liked. Living on a college student’s budget, trips to out of state ski resorts were too expensive to manage. My goal was to go skiing a couple of times in December over the winter break, but the weather was too warm. It did not snow as much as I had hoped. What started out to be a winter lull, continued until later in the season. In late February, there was a lot of snowfall. But just as suddenly as it came, it went away; the weather warmed and all the white snow turned to murky slush. It was in March during my spring break that the tide turned and it had started to snow. The gentle snowfall, turned into a storm that had blizzard like conditions. What should have been an uneventful weekend, turned into an adventure. I was happy that it was snowing for this may be my last chance to ski outdoors. On the Saturday when everyone stayed indoors and sipped their hot cocoa, I suited up to brave the roads and drive to Boston Mills ski resort with my older brother and one of his friends. The roads were not as bad as everyone claimed them to be, they were of course not perfect, but they were drivable. As we drove on the turnpike and got closer to the exit, I was so excited. Nothing could stop me now. Of course I was wrong. When we got to the resort and were about to purchase our passes, a loud voice on a speaker said that the resort would have to close in an hour due to weather conditions. This of course crushed my hopes of skiing on the fresh white powder that had come to town. We got right back into the car and set course for home. The weather started turning worse, and many people were spinning out on the roads. Maybe this had not been such a good

idea, but luckily within an hour, we got home all right. The weather continued to be terrible that night, and I hoped that it would continue to stay cold and maybe snow a few inches for the next couple of days. Unfortunately the weather started clearing up within a day or two. There was however enough snow to go skiing on the following Monday. We went and I had a blast. Once I got those skis on there was no stopping me. I moved down each hill with ease and precision. With each turn, I hoped to cut more into the snow. The skis and I were one, and it was so exhilarating to be back in my element. Towards the end of the night, I spoke to a ski patrol person who told me that there would probably be only one more week to ski for the season. I planned on going on the following Monday, but that was not to be. Instead of snow falling later that week, it was rain. The snow began to melt, and so with that my ambition to ski just one more time. Ohio weather is an unpredictable thing. As I write this, there is a lot of snow on the ground. Probably by the time that this paper goes to print, the snow will be gone. Spring is almost here, and I will have to wait another year for my season to return. More than likely next year, I will just have to put some money away and go to Colorado or New York to get fine skiing conditions. But until then, I will enjoy spring, summer, and fall as much as the next person. Until next year, I bid my skis and this wacky winter weather adieu.

Barack Obama’s

Catch 22

By Christina Niehaus

t usually takes an awful lot for someone to disown a member of his or her family. Whether there be blood relation or simply an extraordinarily close bond is irrelevant. Family is family and to give up on that is no easy task. Naturally, Barack Obama feels this way about his long time friend and reverend, Jeremiah

Wright. Recently, a video surfaced in which the reverend speaks out against America, blaming all for the mistreatment of African Americans, during a particularly passionate sermon. There are moments where his anger is almost frightening, as he shouts “God bless America? No – God damn America!” In other sermons he has also claimed that “the government lied about inventing the HIV virus as a means of genocide against people of color,” in regards to theories of AIDS origins. Reverend Jeremiah Wright is clearly a very angry man, bitter even, but should presidential hopeful Obama pay the price for it? And furthermore, should America really put him in such a place to judge a longtime friend and confidant? Since these sound bites and video clips have surfaced, the public has been quick to lash out at Barack Obama for Reverend Wright’s words. When, in fact, the democratic candidate has nothing to do with this other man’s sermons. True, they have remained close for years and Wright even married Barack and his wife, but it is unquestionably unfair to place all of this blame on Obama. In recent speeches and interviews, Barack Obama has addressed this increasingly popular scandal, stating that while he “strongly disagrees with [Wright’s] political views,” he cannot disown him as a close friend. He goes on to say, rather truthfully, that he has not always agreed with what the reverend has had to say, but of course haven’t we all felt that way about our own pastors, priests or rabbis? Of course Obama does not condone such language, being a bi-racial man who was raised with the help of a white grandfather and being a man of morals who knows that now is a time more than ever that we need racial unity. That being said, race is obviously an important issue in Barack Obama’s campaign, but that is not to say that he in any way agrees with any of the hateful things spewed forth from Wright’s mouth. This is, after all, the man who introduced Obama to Christianity over twenty years ago. But the presidential candidate should not be considered guilty simply by association. The whole situation is similar to a close uncle or aunt suddenly revealing incriminating Continued on Page 6

CARTOON By Michael Quintero

Monday March 24, 2008 The Cauldron

The Melting Pot

The Bullhorn

What will you miss most about the UC now that it is closed?

Compiled by Andrea Mitchell

“The Link” -Peter Oleksiw

“Not much really.” -Matt Seamandel

“It was a place for me to interact with all the people…to hang out.” -Brandi Vandervort

Letter to the Editor This letter is in response to the articles covering the scandal involving former New York Governor Elliot Spitzer and a call-girl service. As a result of the scandal the issue of prostitution is now once again being discussed and debated. Referred to as the world’s oldest “profession,” prostitution is defined as the act or practice of selling oneself for sexual purposes. It is also defined as an unworthy use of a talent, quality, or the like, especially for personal gain. What’s interesting is that the former is illegal in all states except Nevada while the latter has been morally and culturally accepted since the beginning of time. This begs the question: is there any difference between a street walker/ escort and a person who uses their physical beauty to attain a lifestyle that others labor very hard to attain? Too often in our society we see evidence of the “trophy spouse”; a reward received by those who achieve success in business or entertainment. The marriage consists of a person who sees a beautiful spouse as something to obtain and a person who

“All the free food events.” -Martin Malloy

deliberately shops lifestyle by any sexual means necessary. Some would argue that prostitution should be made legal so that (just as with drugs) it can be regulated by the state and become a source of revenue enhancement. Furthermore, sex between strangers would be safer since the government (as in Nevada) would require regular medical examinations to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. The problem facing this country is that we haven’t reconciled these two definitions thus creating the existence of a double standard. We are quick to arrest and condemn the street walker/escort, but would never think to shun a sexual opportunist. In many ways, prostitution already is legal in our society. People pay to watch two people have sex with each other but yet cannot pay each other for sex. I recall two people comparing their lifestyles while waiting in line at the airport. One person told the other “the difference between you and me is that you pay for your sex with cash and I pay for it with dinners, clothing and jewelry”. The problem with this country today is not that we are a nation of laws but rather a nation that continually contradicts itself when it comes to morality. Joe Bialek

Monday March 24, 2008 The Cauldron

Catch 22

The Melting Pot

Continued from Page 3

Barack Obama

evidence about them. We do not disown them or disregard them, but rather we recognize their faults and work through them. Exactly as Obama is trying to do. Then, there is Reverend Jeremiah Wright himself. As a man of times past, he grew up around racism and hate crimes against the black man. Clearly he has not forgotten such things, as should be expected. That does not, of course, justify his sermons, but it does mean that as a witness to such prejudice, some of his actions may be slightly comprehensible. In some ways it is almost expected for African American children of the 1960s to have racial issues with white people. But that does not mean it was all right in any way to throw such hateful words at new generations of people. Reverend Wright was indeed wrong in his words and harshly frightening in his delivery, but for a black man from the 1960s it should not be so surprising to hear such things from him. Barack Obama and his advisors seem to have been working around the clock in order to protect and save his campaign. In a way, that

Crime Prevention Tip Brought to you by Cleveland State University Police

3 Basic Rules for personal safety: DO stay alert. Keep your mind on your surroundings, who’s in front of you and who’s behind you. Don’t get distracted. If you’re worried about crime, ask a friend to accompany you when you go out. Use CSUPD’s safety escort (x2020).

DO communicate the message that you’re calm, confident, and know where you’re going. Stand tall, walk purposefully, and make quick eye contact with people around you.

DO trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in a place or situation, leave.

As a man of times past, he grew up around racism and hate crimes against the black man. Clearly he has not forgotten such things is the worst thing of all about this Reverend Wright scandal; the fact that Obama is the one paying for it, even though he has really done nothing wrong. Simply because you are associated with a wrong doer does not mean that you too have done wrong. Guilty by association does not have any relevance here and racist is not an accurate adjective to describe this presidential candidate. Barack Obama has been astounding and impressing many thus far in his campaign. So let us not lose sight of why we were drawn to him in the first place.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) is a 12 Step Program for individuals suffering from food obsession, overeating, under-eating and bulimia. There will be a free community information meeting on April 5 at Cleveland Clinic – Bunts Auditorium in Cleveland at 2 pm. No dues, fees or weigh – ins. Every one is welcome, including those who think they may have a food problem or are concerned about someone who may. For more information, call Tracy at 216-308-0005 or visit our website at www.foodaddicts.org.

Monday March 24, 2008 The Cauldron

News

UC Closing Party By Andrea Mitchell

t’s official; the University Center (UC) is closed off to the public. While the MC plaza has now opened its doors (with some construction still underway) the UC stands vacated and awaiting demolition. While the echo of progress surrounds the soon to be construction site many will miss the place that for so long was the central hang-out for Cleveland State University students, faculty and staff. To give the building its proper send-off Student Life and Greek Council hosted the See You UC Farewell Party on Thursday Mar. 20. The turnout for the farewell party that lasted from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the UC cage was fairly well at over 150 students coming through for the free food, entertainment, contests and music. Overall alumni showed up, as did many staff members along with the students for a bittersweet goodbye to the place that was so long their home.

As the UC will be leveled soon, so construction can start on the new Student Center, event planners decided that it would okay and kind of fun for everyone involved to graffiti the UC. A graffiti contest was even held in the center of the atrium floor, where contestants were given cans of spray paint and allowed to decorate their square as they so chose. Many students wrote their names, names of their organizations and eulogies to the UC on their graffiti square. Onlookers stood on and watched as the floor that once hosted hundreds of student events and was walked on by generations of Cleveland State students was given its final decorations. Throughout the UC (as well as the atrium floor) attendees were encouraged to graffiti the walls with markers and pens. The mural that sat overlooking the atrium floor was written on by almost all attendees. They used their signatures

on the mural to say their good-byes. Karaoke and a magic show, were the final forms of entertainment for the UC to hold. All attendees listened and watched, with the knowledge that it was the last event ever for the UC. However, all former UC residents are now getting used to their new homes. On moving the MC plaza Olga Lee of Student Life said, “It will take some getting used to, but I think everyone’s adapting.” The UC was once a symbol of community at Cleveland State. As Dr. Sandra Emerick of Student Life said, “I think the students feel a sense of community in this building. I think they’ll lose a sense of place. [However], students will still play a key roll in envisioning the new student center. As a staff person this has been my home and I’ll miss the centralized hustle and bustle.”

Monday March 24, 2008 The Cauldron

News

Candidates Address Empty Room

By Mark Jablonski andidates running for positions in the Student Government Association (SGA) addressed a largely empty auditorium in MC 201 at last Thursday’s Candidate Forum. Presidential and vice presidential candidates Kimberly Carr and Chikodi Ogwuebu and opponents Bolaji Orimoloye and Abdul Ameen answered questions and presented their platforms in front of student media and the two students in the audience. Also present was current treasurer and candidate for reelection Neda Abuaun, secretary candidate Brandy Ambrose, and senate candidates Ray Izard and Willie Taylor. Carr said that her experience as an atlarge senator -- where she represents the entire student body – has prepared her for the office of president. She stressed the importance of student input, and pointed to a survey she conducted earlier in the year to gauge student satisfaction with food services on campus. Carr also said that she plans to promote an “open door policy” if elected by creating a suggestion box where students can easily share comments with their SGA representatives. Orimoloye also stressed student input, and said “The time is now to get the students involved on campus.” Ameen, Orimoloye’s running mate, hopes to fill the many vacant senate seats and get students interested in SGA. “As you look around, there’s nobody here,” he said, “and we have to address that.” He said that future SGA administrations will be “at a loss” without more student participation. Orimoloye said that one way to attract students to SGA would be to co-sponsor a “big event” on campus, like a concert. That would involve students, get the SGA name out, and it would be “doable,” he said. Ameen also highlighted his efforts to create a Diversity Committee, which would “focus on improving graduation retention rates of minority students at Cleveland State University.” The resolution remains in the Investigative and Legislative Committee. According to their platform statement, Ormioloye and Ameen will work to freeze parking fees and improve the quality and

nutritional value of food provided in the dorms. They’d also like to have the new Cleveland State University Recreation Center open to all students free of charge. Currently, students who are not full-time must pay an entrance fee of $7. In their platform statement, Carr and Ogwuegbu vow to do their “utmost to help each and every student to reach, achieve, and if possible, even surpass their personal goals.” Carr and Ogwuegbu said that they also hope to fill the open senate seats, but with “passionate” students, not just those looking to build their resumes. After the forum, Ameen told The Cauldron that he felt that Carr and Ogwuegbu should have received harsher punishment for their decision to begin campaigning early on Facebook. Board of Elections (BOE) regulations stated that campaigning could not begin until Mar. 17, and Ogwuegbu had made mention of her candidacy on her Facebook account prior to that date. Carr and Ogwuegbu received a sanction for the incident, and were forbidden from campaigning for two days last week. Despite substantial advertisement of the forum, only two students attended, both of whom declined to speak with The Cauldron about the election. BOE Co-Chair Jennifer Hakko said that she was “disappointed” that none of the University Judicial Board candidates showed up. There are nine candidates for the board, but only seven seats. One of those candidates, Heather Nguyen, told The Cauldron that she could not attend the forum because she had to work. Last semester, Nguyen resigned from her post as SGA secretary. She was also the subject of an SGA investigation, which concluded that she had violated the terms of her office by acting unprofessionally. The senate chose not to penalize her. When asked by The Cauldron why students should entrust her with another position, Nguyen said that “Whether I’m in an official position or not, I have always been working hard to make sure that students’ interests are being taken into consideration.” She pointed to her service on the College of Business Dean’s Student Advisory Board, and also to her fund raising work with Viking Expeditions, a group that raised money to send students to New Orleans to rebuild homes.

Let’s Meet the SGA Candidates: President and Vice President: Kimberly Carr & Chikodi Ogwuegbu. Bolaji Orimoloye & Abdul Ameen. Secretary: Brandy Ambrose Treasurer: Neda Abuaun Science Senator (two positions): Khadidja Benmerzouga and Willie Taylor III Business Senator: Ray Izard Senior Senator: Briana Nickols Graduate/Education Sen: Kennethian Brown Graduate/Business Sen: Beverly Pereira Graduate/Engineering Sen: Sai Kumar Talasila At-Large Senator (three positions): Charles Bailey and Rebecca Carlton. University Judicial Board (seven positions): Quesjanee Brooks Olwen Conant Christine Jamison Kayla Jarvis Nicholas Mathew Heather Nguyen Anthony Roberts Paul Serwatka Matthew Zgodinski

Aside from the Judicial Board seats and the offices of president and vice president, all other SGA candidates are running unopposed. Voting will take place on Tuesday April 1st from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the first floor plaza of the Main Classroom building, and from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Business Building Lobby. Students may also vote on Wednesday April 2nd from 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the first floor lobby of Main Classroom. Visit www.csuohio.edu/elections/ for more info.

Monday March 24, 2008 The Cauldron

News

SGA Meeting

Fingerhut Abandons Merger By Andrea Mitchell

By Mark Jablonski

t last Friday’s Student Government Association Meeting (SGA), it was announced that the changes being proposed to the SGA Constitution will be less extensive than originally thought, meaning that the amendments do not have to appear on the ballot for a vote of the student body. The changes are relatively minor, including a change in the attendance policy for SGA members, and allowing non-SGA members to run for president. Perhaps the biggest proposed change is raising the GPA requirement for students to serve as SGA candidates from 2.0 to 2.75. Sen. Abdul Ameen objected, fearing that the higher standard would exclude students. “I just don’t want to see a GPA exclude someone who has a sincere desire to serve,” he said. Vice President Peggy Thompson said that if a student’s GPA is lower than 2.75, than they need to devote their energy to their academic work, and not student government. The proposed change was retained, but the final revisions must still pass through the Dept. of Student Life and the Faculty Senate before ratification. Resolutions Passed: A resolution was passed that would require President Blake Almaguer to issue a press release to all student media whenever a resolution is passed by the senate. The release would contain the text of the passed resolution, and will also seek to explain its purpose. A resolution urging the Ohio General Assembly to “move forward” with legislation that would assist veterans seeking financial aid for college was also passed. The motion also states that Campus411 staff should be given additional training “. . .in the programs available on campus for veterans.” One such program, entitled “SERV,” is designed to “assist military veterans with their transition from soldier to civilian to student.” Also passed by the senate was a bill requiring an extra six hour training session for incoming SGA members. Board of Elections Co-Chairs Alison Foye and Jennifer Hakko expressed concern that the new requirement wasn’t in the packet which recently went out to SGA candidates, and also that the training time might be excessive. Vice President Peggy Thompson said that if

A resolution urging the Ohio General Assembly to “move forward” with legislation that would assist veterans seeking financial aid for college was also passed. students couldn’t make the session, they could reschedule it for another time, and that the amount of training was needed to ensure that new members are better aware of their duties. Opposition to New Catering Contract President Blake Almaguer expressed concerns over new regulations regarding campus-catering options. The new “Enrollment Process for Off Campus Catering Providers” states that if student organizations want to purchase food off campus to eat on university grounds totaling more than $50, they must contact an approved caterer in order for those funds to be approved for use. To be an approved caterer, a food provider must meet stringent requirements - such as having a one million dollar insurance policy – and provide CSU with copies of health inspection reports. So far only five establishments, including Rascal House and Cafe Ah Roma, are enrolled in the new program. “This is going to be a great issue with the way student organizations function,” said Almaguer. He then asked the senate to pass a resolution opposing the new catering policy. A resolution was not immediately proposed, but the senate voted to give Almaguer authorization to protest the policy before the administration.

ast fall Ohio State Higher Education Chancellor Eric Fingerhut startled many Cleveland State University and University of Akron students, faculty and staff when he proposed to merge the two schools. As of last Thursday Fingerhut has decided to desert that plan for now. Instead of merging Fingerhut is encouraging the two schools to build “excellence.” In his 10-year plan for all Ohio public colleges that will be announced on Mar. 31st he wants all Ohio public colleges to focus on excellence. On the idea for merging Cleveland State and the University of Akron Fingerhut said, “The will to merge wasn’t’ there.” Fingerhut wants to end the competition between colleges in the same region. As a part of his plan to better higher education in Ohio, he told Cleveland State, University of Akron, Kent State University and NEOUCOM to take on a more collaborative role for the betterment of Ohio students. The other idea with the proposed merger for Cleveland State and the University of Akron was to move NEOUCOM from its Rootstown campus, however, that idea has also been abandoned, as it will remain in Rootstown. Many are relieved that Fingerhut has changed his mind about the proposed merger. Cleveland State University and the University of Akron both have unique and individual characteristics that they intend on keeping intact, while working to move Ohio higher education further.

10Feature Monday March 24, 2008 The Cauldron

Now What Do We Do

Spring Is Here! By Andrea Mitchell

hile the weather outside is still painfully frightful the fact remains that it is now officially spring. With Easter over and, hopefully, nicer weather on the way, Clevelanders will soon have the opportunity for outdoor activity once again. After being snowed in several times this winter (who’ll forget the near blizzard a couple of weeks ago that sure felt like a full fledged blizzard!) everyone is suffering from a little bit of cabin fever. Soon the warm weather will touch Clevelanders and we’ll be wearing our light jackets and leaving the scarves and mittens behind. The Cleveland Metroparks are renowned for their interesting sites, events and locations in the city of Cleveland. Practically everyone has driven through the Metroparks on a nice day and witnessed the forest majesty that so rarely is seen today in the hustle and bustle of the city. Our Emerald Necklace is a jewel we can be proud of and relish as citizen of our fair city. Over the winter many Clevelanders flock to the toboggan shoot at the Metroparks and multiple hills that are perfect for sledding. However, now that warmer weather is on the way it is time to retire these winter attractions in exchange for warmer ones. One of the most famous and all around fun attractions that Metroparks has to offer is the Cleveland Metropark Zoo. The Zoo has free admission every Monday to all Cuyahoga Country and Hinckley residents. Now that the weather is warming up animals are becoming more active as well. Unlike winter and summer months, where it is either too warm or too cold for animals to move around comfortably, the spring temperatures bring most animals out to play and even some new additions to the Zoo. This spring one of the Zoo events is Earthfest 2008: Party for the Planet. The event will be held on Apr. 20 and is the largest environmental education event in Ohio. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and gives Zoo visitors to the chance to become more educated in environmental issues that face the community. The event will be free “for those registered in the walk or bike for the earth, or those who ride the free RTA Clean-Air bus from Public Square.” Another upcoming event at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is the International Migratory Bird Day. This event brings attention to the journey of the migratory bird between its summer and winter homes. Visitors can pretend to be a bird as they migrate to stations around the Zoo. There will be other various activities that day. The event will start at 10:30 a.m. on May 10 and last until 3 p.m. Other than special events happening at the Zoo, it is always a good experience to get outdoors and just walk around the Zoo after

being cooped up all winter. However, if seeing animals isn’t as big of deal to you as catching them, the ice is melting on lakes all around the Metroparks and that means that regular fishing season is about to again commence. Avid fishers can fish in Rocky River with the correct licensures. The Cleveland Metroparks even offers the “Rocky River Fishing Report” online on the homepage for fishers to find out where the “big ones” are biting. After obtaining a fishing license (mandatory for all fishers ages 16-65 in the state of Ohio), fishing is permitting from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. throughout much of the Metroparks. These areas include: Lake Erie, Rocky River, Oxbow Lagoon, Ranger Lake, Wallace Lake, Bonnie Parke Picnic Area Pond, Beyer’s Bond, Hinckley Lake, Judge’s Lake, Ledge Lake, Canal Fishing Area and Chagrin River. While fishing is a time old sport, many still prefer to buy their fish at the supermarket. For those people hiking may be a more suitable option to get outdoors. The hiking trails around the Cleveland Metroparks offer visitors the opportunity to get a nature hike right next to the big city. The hiking trails in the Cleveland Metroparks include: Big Creek Reservation, Brecksville Reservation, Euclid Creek Reservation, Garfield Park Reservation, Hinckley Reservation, Mill Stream Run Reservation, North Chagrin Reservation, Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, Rocky River Reservation North and South and South Chagrin Reservation. The trails are usually mud, gravel and/or compost, so it is always a good idea to where sensible shoes if you are about to embark on a hike. The trails listed above are the all purpose trails and are perfect for beginners. Feeling the fresh air and being part of the outdoors while exercising is a treat after a long winter of working out in the gym. Another option that the Cleveland Metroparks offers visitors in the warmer months is bridle trails. For area equestrians there is nearly 82 miles of trails available for use. Only horses are allowed on the bridle trails, so horseback riders should have no problems with encountering mountain bikers or other visitors that would inhibit theirs or their animal’s enjoyment. Golfing season is about to begin again now that spring is here. Golf is one of the most popular recreational sports in the area. The Cleveland Metroparks offer several golf courses. For those just starting out there are many proshops around the area that offer beginner lessons to golfers. If all this outdoorsy talk isn’t for you, there’s always other ways to experience the coming of spring weather without having to brave the wilderness. Many folks enjoy bargain shopping

and with the return of warmer weather some of the best bargain hunting days are ahead. Garage sales will begin for the diehard frugal shopper. While thrift stores may be the garage sailor’s winter stomping ground, spring opens up hundreds of area garages full of interesting possessions to purchase for the right price. If only to get you out of the house and not spend as much money or time inside the mall. Garage sailing offers the ability to walk around on nice days in the spring and bargain your way into great deals. Area papers (such as the Parma Sun Post) have a listing of garage sales or if you’re more a traditionalist, you can just start the car and drive around area residential developments looking for the poster board and black magic marker signs. Or, for a little more exercise, riding your bike between neighborhoods takes care of two birds with one stone; combining exercise with finding that recycled prize at your local yard sale. Another spring option that may not be the fun and exciting, but is always important, is the imposing spring-cleaning. The dusting and washing may not ‘get you out of your house,” but it will get the winter grime and blues out of your way. It feels wonderful to open the house inviting in the freshness. Maybe obtaining some lovely garden or hanging flowers will add a special touch and bring the reminder of summer days soon on the horizon. While this past winter, especially the last few weeks, have been a challenge for those of us on the North Shore, we are resilient because we’re aware that the four season we experience each year are unique to our northern hemisphere. Palm trees, tropical temperatures and sea breezes year round do not allow for the renewed feeling we Northerners get to revel in each year at this time. Enjoy the beauty of Spring in Cleveland over the next month when you notice the crocus, daffodils and hyacinths bloom and feel the warmth of the sun pushing the cold air away, making the grey, cold days a trivial memory of the past winter of 2008.

12Culture Monday March 24, 2008 The Cauldron

Does America refuse to have a Homosexual American Idol? By Christina Niehaus

or almost seven years, American Idol has been captivating millions of viewers. And each year it seems that the hit FOX reality show gets more and more diverse. Whether that diversity is girls with more of a country twang than pop sound, or guys that would rather belt out Creed songs than “Somewhere over the Rainbow,” Idol is undoubtedly changing. One thing that fails to change, however, is the sexuality of our winning American Idol. Of course there is nothing wrong with heterosexual performers – it would be hypocritical to say otherwise. But there is something wrong with the fact that quite a few amazing vocalists throughout the course of the show have been rumored homosexuals – and none of them have won. Whether or not the sexuality of these contestants was confirmed or denied is not the question. America has long been making their own assumptions about those in the public eye and who’s to say they haven’t applied that ignorance to American Idol? During season one of Idol, Jim Verraros chose to hide his sexuality, perhaps to spare himself the possibility of being voted off simply because of it. And it is no secret that Clay Aiken has long been suspected of having a non-hetero status. Though it was believed by many during his time on the show, it was not even formally addressed until well after his Idol days. It is still unclear just what his sexual orientation is, but one can’t help wondering if the reason he was not voted number one was because everyone already assumed something that he was too afraid to admit. Now, of course, we have the seventh season of American Idol. Shortly after it was revealed that Idol contestant David Hernandez had been a former stripper in a club of mostly male clientele, he too was voted as America’s least favorite. And while Hernandez has yet to confirm or deny allegations that he is indeed a homosexual, there is no doubt that this is what everyone assumed when casting their Idol votes. The truest example of an ongoing prejudice against homosexual contestants on American Idol is Danny Noriega. He began on the show as a high-spirited, talented 18-year-old kid and only continued to excel at his vocal talents. Then, he decided to be an individual and proud of who he was, but it appeared to be the biggest mistake he could make as an American Idol contestant. He posted a video of himself online in which he was shown singing about his homosexuality and how he was proud of it. The next thing we know, this talented young individual is singing his farewell song on American Idol. There is no surefire way to determine exactly why these contestants were decidedly not good enough. However, all signs seem to point to the possibility of their being homosexual. Which is fairly ridiculous, with America being the country that it is. By now it is far from taboo to support homosexuals and lesbians and for people to go by hearsay and cast their vote against them is ridiculous. On the other hand, maybe it is just a coincidence. Or, perhaps, the country is acting out with their ignorant assumptions and prejudice. Which is, if you ask me, getting quite played out.

Ryan Seacrest & Simon Cowell

13Culture Monday March 24, 2008 The Cauldron

Are They Worth A Listen? By Faith Larraine

He’s been around since 1996, but he is becoming rapidly popular in the music industry fast. He’s not a rock star though. I have chosen to write about this guy because he has an AMAZING VOICE and his songs melt my heart. So, since we are not doing a rock band this time…we need to change our perspectives to a different genre. Are you guys ready for some jazzy jazz jazz? Let me know if you think this artist is worth a listen. Band of Choice: Michael Bublé 10 Reasons Why You Should Listen to Michael Bublé 1. Voice: Talk about amazing! Bublé’s voice makes me want to listen to more jazz and big band singers. His voice is intense, harmonic, sensual, and above all…he has amazing range. His voice is one of the most pleasant things I have heard in a long time. 2. Awards: Bublé has won many awards for his music and other productions. Here is a list of some but he has won many more. He has won a Juno for best new artist in 2004, a Juno for artist of the year in 2006, and he was nominated for a Grammy for the best male artist performance for his song Everything this year. Again, that’s just to name a few. 3. Movies: Bublé has done some cinema work as well. He was in such movies as “The Snow Walker” and “Totally Blonde”. He also was on an episode of The X-files. 4. Albums: Bublé has released three fulllength albums. His latest album titled “Call Me Irresponsible” has Bublé’s hit single “Everything” on it. Also, it is a Grammy-award winning album. Definitely worth a try.

5. American Idol: American Idol contestant Elliott Yamin sang one of Bublé’s songs for a performance. Apparently, he did pretty well. It must be a huge honor for an American Idol contestant to use one of your songs as a performance. That’s pretty amazing. 6. Toni: Singer Toni Braxton said in an interview that she would like Bublé to be on her next album. Braxton is a great signer and I think she and Bublé would make a great combo for a song or two. 7. Lyrics: Bublé’s lyrics are very touching and powerful. He wrote a song about his breakup with his ex-fiancé Debbie Timuss, but it wasn’t a very painful song. It was pleasant sounding and meaningful. 8. Feeling Good: This is one of Bublé’s hit singles off of his sophomore album “It’s Time”. He covered this song that was originally written by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse for the 1965 musical The Roar of the Greasepaint: The Smell of the Crowd. 9. Manager: Bruce Allen, who is also the manager for Martina McBride, is now managing Bublé. I love Martina McBride so he must be pretty good. 10. Appearance: Bublé will be at our very own Wolstein Center on April 19th. If you have the money…GO SEE HIM! 10 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Listen to Michael Bublé 1. Canadian: Actually, he’s CanadianItalian. That alone sets wrong with me. More the Canadian part than the Italian part. I don’t have a problem with Canadians…but there has always been that Canadian/American rivalry that I easily partake in. 2. Old Time: Bublé does sound somewhat old school when you listen to him. When you go to one of his concerts, you’re not going to see little twelve and fourteen year old girls slapping you in the face with their ponytails. At a Bublé concert, you are probably going to see some older people and some young adults… basically people who are going to have a passion for jazz. So, don’t go here and think you can create a mosh-pit. Please don’t.

Michael Buble’

3. Terrified: Bublé said in an interview that he was terrified to make his last album because he knew it had to be better than the previous two and he wasn’t sure if that could be done. Lack of confidence much? 4. Ticket Prices: I would love to see Bublé, but his ticket prices are quite high. The cheapest tickets are fifty dollars. Sorry I don’t have a random fifty lying around. 5. Emily Blunt: This is whom he is dating now. LUCKY HER! Yeah, this is the girl who played Emily in the movie The Devil Wears Prada with Anne Hathaway. Very pretty girl. I’m a little jealous. He probably sings to her every night. 6. Canucks: Bublé will schedule his concert times around whenever the hockey team the Vancouver Canucks play. I would be pissed if he scheduled a concert one day that I couldn’t get to because that stupid Canadian hockey team was playing. Lame. 7. Looks: He’s okay looking…but nothing too special. Looks like the boy next door. 8. Not Rock: Enough said. 9. Myspace: On his MySpace, you can only listen to short clips of his songs before they fade out. How lame! I want the whole song like everybody else has! No fair! 10. Final Note: His voice alone makes me want to go to a bank and rob it for a fifty! But then…I would have to find enough money to pay for tax. Yeah…this is becoming too much work already!

14Culture Monday March 24, 2008 The Cauldron

Film Buffs Showed the Love at the 32nd Cleveland International Film Festival By Ilona Westfall

redits began to roll across the movie screen. Most of the audience sat still and watched. Only at the Cleveland International Film Festival would filmgoers be so dedicated as to stay and eagerly watch credits in Spanish informing us as to who was the “grip” for the movie. Or perhaps it was the promise of Q and A sessions with the directors and actors which followed many of the films that gave audience members an incentive to stick around. Either way, Northeast Ohio’s true film devotees were out in full force during the 32nd annual film festival’s 11-day run from Mar. 6 through Mar. 16. The film fest brought 52,100 movie lovers to its Tower City home, just short of the attendance record set by last year’s festival. Still, you’ve got to give it props for being able to bring that many people out despite a water main break on Public Square on the festival’s first day and a crazy snowstorm that left many people unable to even leave their homes. Even though it didn’t break its total attendance record, the last day of the festival was the biggest day in the CIFF’s history with over 8,700 people showing up to see films ranging from director Gus Van Sant’s newest film, Paranoid Park, to the official closing night film, American Teen. The latter, a Sundance film festival award winner which will have a wide release later this year, was followed by a closing night reception during which awards were handed out to certain flicks. The Audience Choice Award for Best Film unsurprisingly went to One Bad Cat: The Reverend Albert Wagner Story which detailed the life of local artist Albert Wagner who passed away in 2006. After all, we Clevelanders love to support our hometown talent. In fact, the film fest screened eight feature-length films either filmed by locals

or about Cleveland or Ohio. One of them, the thriller Unspeakable, was even shown here at Cleveland State University in October. Cleveland State had another connection to the film fest, as well. Our school was one of its many corporate sponsors, and as a result there was even an award named after it that went out to Conviction: The True Story of Clarence Elkins as the audience’s choice for best short film. There was also a table full of brochures for prospective Cleveland State students in the lobby at the festival. What else was on said table? Why, a stack of everyone’s favorite weekly paper, The Cauldron, for filmgoers to read between screenings, of course. The amount of sponsorship and the attendance rates are certainly promising for the festival’s future. Especially compared to its humble beginnings in 1977 when it featured a mere eight films from seven countries and took place at the Cedar Lee over the span of eight weeks. This year festival attendees were treated to 130 feature-length films from over 50 countries, in addition to several series of shorts, film slams for students and the ever-popular screening of the world’s best commercials. But don’t despair if you were unable to attend this year’s festival. Although it’s unlikely that you will be able to see many of these films ever again, a few of the festival’s highlights are set to be shown at the Cedar Lee Theater in upcoming months. If you’re lucky, others will be available via Netflix. And if you’re really kicking yourself for not going this year, the 33rd Cleveland International Film Festival is slated to take place next March, probably bigger and badder than ever.

This year festival attendees were treated to 130 feature length films from over 50 countries, in addition to several series of shorts, film slams for students and the ever popular screening of the worlds best commercials.

The Newman Catholic Student Association is sponsoring Coach Gerry Faust coming to give a talk at 7pm, Tuesday, March 25, 2008 in the Ballroom of Fenn Tower. The title of his talk: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Three Miracles of Lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Coach Faust is the former football coach of the University of Notre Dame and of the University of Akron. There will be refreshments. For further information call 216-262-5712.

Play Like A Champion Today

Home City Ice Co. Walton Hills, Oh. Hiring for route delivery and packaging. 30 minutes from campus. Flexible scheduling around classes. Earn $8.00 to $14.00 per hour. Work Through school on into Summer. Call 800-376-5388 or visit: www.homecityice.com to apply online.

17Sports Monday March 24, 2008 The Cauldron

Vikings head to California on ‘Business Trip’

Vikings Lace-up Dancing Shoes For First Time By Robert Ivory

No. 42, Chris Moore

It was all set for the Vikings. After they defeated Wisconsin-Green Bay in the Horizon League Semi-Finals, all the Vikings needed to do was beat the Wright State Raiders in the Finals. Fortunately, they took care of that task winning 70-56 and have punched their ticket to the Women’s NCAA Tournament. “It was four years of hard work, and it was simply amazing,” Senior Robyn Hoying said of the win in Wisconsin-Green Bay to send the Vikings to their first taste of the NCAA Tournament. Hoying hit a critical three-pointer to put the nail in the Raiders’ coffin, “They planned not to let me see the light of day, but I stepped up when I got that chance.” It was an unbelievable start to the Horizon League Final as the Vikings hit their first nine shots, and continued their hot shooting form, which helped them beat Phoenix in the previous game. “We peaked at the right time,” Senior Brittany Korth said of their sparkling play in the last several games. The winning of the Championship, coupled with the men’s basketball team making the Horizon League Finals makes Cleveland State only the sixth school in Horizon League history that both Men’s and Women’s programs make it to the Horizon League Tournament

Finals (Xavier, Butler, Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Wisconsin-Green Bay, and Detroit). Only Milwaukee in 2005-2006 won both titles. Coming into the selection show last Monday, ESPN’s Bracketology had the Vikings getting a number 16 seed, and traveling to the “Golden State” to face the Pac-10 Champions, the Stanford Cardinals. When the dust was settled, and the brackets let out, it was that exact matchup that the Vikings would receive, but they would be the 15th seed, facing the number two. Head Coach Kate Peterson Abiad continually reminds her team of the motives of their trip, “We are here on a ‘business trip.’ It’s a lot like going to Disney World, anyone can buy their way into the park, but these girls have earned where they are.” She also stresses that the team is on a journey and getting to the NCAA Tournament is not the end. “We are holding each other accountable, that’s a lot different from before,” Korth would add. Previewing the Cards: Stanford is led by their Senior Guard Candice Wiggins, who was voted Pac-10 Player of the Year (her record third time), ESPN All-American First Team, and considered by many analysts as the best player in Pac-10 history. However striking these numbers are, Vikings’ key scorer Kailey Klein finished with a higher PPG to end the year (19.9, tied for 12th in the country with Wisconsin’s Jolene Anderson to Wiggins’ 19.3). As for the team’s success, they are on an 18 game winning streak, and won their last 27 of 29 games. Also to add to their impressive résumé, the Cards defeated Vivian Stringer’s fourth ranked Rutgers in New Jersey early in the year, as well as Pat Summit’s Tennessee Volunteers, the best team in the nation. Clearly it is a “David versus Goliath” battle.

“The winning of the Championship, coupled with the men’s basketball team making the Horizon League Finals makes Cleveland State only the sixth school in Horizon League history that both Men’s and Women’s programs make it to the Horizon League Tournament Finals”

18Sports Monday March 24, 2008 The Cauldron

Dayton Uses Size and Roberts to ‘Fly’ By CSU

Vikings N.I.T. Run Short Lived By Nick Camino

star point guard Cedric Jackson was hindered by his right ankle that he sprained in the Horizon League Title game against # 10 Butler a week ago, as he only dropped in 11 for the Vikes. But sophomore guard Joe Davis and freshman forward D’Aundray Brown each scored 10 apiece for CSU, who ended their season with a record of 21-13. Coach Waters has said it all season that the end of the first half and the beginning of the second half are very important. Well, Wednesday night the Flyers won both battles outscoring the Vikings 22-4 in the last five minutes of the first half and the first five minutes of the second half. Sophomore Joe Davis (left) drives past Dayton’s Brian Roberts during the Cleveland State junior forward George Tandy nails a jump 15-foot jump Dayton improves to first round of the 2008 Mastercard N.I.T. shot over Andre Sadoval during the Vikings 66-57 loss to the Dayton 22-10 on the year and Flyers. continues their season, but how can anyone t was the first postseason game for points shooting 7-of-10 from the field. Cleveland State since 1988, but Roberts is a tremendous player, CSU Head overlook what Cleveland State accomplished in just Waters’ second season as head coach. Wednesday night at UD Arena the # Coach Gary Waters said after the contest. 3 seeded Dayton Flyers eliminated the “He makes everything he takes and we CSU, which had not appeared in post-season Vikings from the 2008 Mastercard National didn’t count on that,” Waters explained. “We play since back-to-back NIT appearances in Invitational Tournament in a game that was went to the diamond and one because we had 1986-87 and 1987-88, earned an at-large bid not as close as the final 66-57 defeat portrayed. to take him out and make Dayton beat us from to the tournament after being one of at least 15 teams in Division I basketball history to go from After both teams missed out on at-large bids the perimeter.” to the NCAA Tournament, the Vikings and The Flyers were not hitting their outside 20 losses in one season (10-21 last season) to 20 Flyers went at it for the first time in 20 years, shots; however the 6-10 size of Kurt Huelsman wins the next. After the game Waters expressed how proud but a strong first half by the Flyers powered inside could not be contained by the Vikings, by point guard Brian Roberts, advanced the especially with center Chris Moore on the he was of his team and expressed excitement for next season. southern Ohio school to the second round of bench with foul trouble. “This group really came together this year the N.I.T. where they will face Illinois State. Huelsman finished with 12 points, while and accomplished every goal we set,” Waters While First Team All-Horizon League St. Vincent-St. Mary graduate and Akron, forward J’Nathan Bullock went scoreless in Ohio native Marcus Johnson scored 11 for the said. “We will return almost everybody next year and we have our sights set on bigger the first half and finished with just eight on the Flyers. night, Roberts scorched the Vikings with 21 Once again it seemed Cleveland State’s things.”