Vol. 79 No. 4

THE SIGNAL THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF GEORGIA STATE UNIVERSITY SERVING THE UNIVERSITY SINCE 1933 VOLUME 79 | ISSUE 4

PantherCard gets makeover, now available to students

MICHELLE ASCI | SIGNAL

Students are now required to get new PantherCards.

BRITTANY KNOX Staff Writer In the spirit of big changes being made here at Georgia State, students will be getting new PantherCards.

GSUSIGNAL.COM

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011

Some GSU students, including new freshman and other incoming students, were issued their new school IDs at the start of the academic year. But even students who do not have the new card may have already

seen its new look.

The card still includes the same basic information — students’ name, Panther ID number and a photograph. But the layout of the card has undergone a makeover.

According to Russell Chiles, director of Information Systems and PantherCard Program, the look of the Panther ID card is changing to be more cohesive with the change in the Pounce the Panther logo.

“The PantherCard’s image was changed to reflect the newly branded Pounce Logo that was launched in coordination with the Georgia State football team,” said Chiles. He also states that the only change that students will see as a result of this endeavor is the design on the card—the production of these new cards are not costing students additional fees or charges.

It is not required that students have these new cards; those who still have the classic Panther ID cards will still be able to use them on campus.

If students wish to obtain the new

Panther ID card, the replacement fee of $10 will still be in place. However, Chiles says that there will be a date announced in the future when students will be able to receive the new Panther ID card for free.

When asked about possible changes to the function of the PantherCard in the future, Chiles replied, “We are working with Student Accounts to potentially make PantherCard a vehicle for financial aid disbursements.”

If this change is approved, there will not be an additional cost to students to implement the program.

Allyson Broody, a senior majoring in public relations here at GSU, works as a student assistant in the PantherCard office, addressing student concerns and providing assistance to students regarding the use of their Panther ID card. “The new Panther Card gives GSU a fierce and exciting new look,” says Broody. “Many customers have been satisfied with the new design.”

Coraline Van Asten, a senior majoring in criminal justice, is also a student assistant in the PantherCard office. She said that there have been mixed opinions from students about the new PantherCard so far.

“Some students love the new

look,” Van Asten sayes, “and a few… did not like the design. A lot of students, however, are very excited and cannot wait to get the update.”

Both Broody and Van Asten have been working in the PantherCard office since before the introduction of the new cards.

Among other benefits, the PantherCard allows accessibility into many of the campus events and buildings.

Students’ PantherCards provide entrance into the Petit Science Building, the university library and dining hall facilities. Other important essentials of having a PantherCard are its monetary uses. It acts as a bank card, storing cash and Panther Cash value, and is used to pay for things such as meal plans and also bookstore credit,.

It also gives accessibility to campus amenities including free entry into Cinefest and GSU home games.

Students can get their PantherCard or replacements at the PantherCard office, located on the second floor of the University Center. For additional information about the PantherCard and its numerous functions around campus, log onto the Auxiliary and Support Services page on the GSU website.

Students concerned over food safety after Kennesaw student dies Alexis Smith Staff Writer

Chris Shattuck News Editor

Following the death of a Kennesaw State University student from a suspected food allergy a few weeks Mon 9/5

Tue 9/6

Wed 9/7

ago, some students have recently become interested in Georgia State’s food safety policies.

Lenore Music, manager of food services at Georgia State, says that Georgia State is completely safe for

Thur 9/8

Fri 9/9

those conscious of their own dietary restrictions. She says that information regarding likely food allergens is determined by the chefs and posted to warn students.

“We have a chef at both dining

halls that have extensive knowledge on food allergies, and we make sure of that. We label the most important items like peanuts and so forth as best we can in order to insure the safety of students,” said Music.

However, some students like sophomore English education major Hannah Wildes, who is lactose intolerant and suffers from a mild case SEE SAFETY PAGE 05

See page 2 for our

INDEX

September 11th memorial spread Hi 80

Hi 84

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News...........................2 Opinions....................6 Sports.........................8 Entertainment.......12 Campus Life...........16

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THE SIGNAL | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011

NEWS

EDITOR Chris Shattuck

signalnewseditor@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR OPEN

www.gsusignal.com/news

10 Years Ago: Where were you?

The National September 11th Memorical & Museum will open to the public on Sept. 12 after it is dedicated on the 10th anniversary, Sept. 11.

Students react to national tragedy ISABELLE VEITCH Staff Writer Most of Georgia State University’s students don’t remember the Vietnam War, or where they were when national guardsmen opened fire on the students at Kent State.

They don’t remember where they were when Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated, nor John F. Kennedy. Youth has prevented these tragedies from being milestones in their lives.

But they remember what they were doing on Tuesday, Sept. 11, when America was attacked.

“I was asleep and my friend called me and asked me to turn on CNN,” said Sarah March, a senior majoring in biology. She added: “I was shocked and worried about my friend who works in Manhattan.”

Many people lost their lives last Tuesday and many more forever lost their sense of security.

Georgia State students watched the towers collapse on their television and their hearts went out to those who lost their lives and their families.

“I was at work and I just wanted to go home,” Maria Heqpner, a sophomore majoring in graphic design. “I called my mother,” she said, “and told her that I love her.”

The Georgia State community’s diverse students don’t have enough money to contribute to the Red Cross, but what they are offering is priceless: their blood and prayers.

“I am so upset I can’t talk,” said a student with tears in his eyes and trembling hands.

“It would not be a bad idea to destroy the Middle East right now,” said James, a freshman majoring in political science. He explained that his principles as an American would not allow him to act that way, but in a moment like this he cannot help but feel this way. Several students declined to provide their last names as their statements may have been of a controversial nature.

No doubt, the distraction of an ever-altered skyline is destined to change many people’s outlook forever. The terrorists used passenger airliners to destroy Manhattan’s two tallest buildings and the Pentagon, which remained open despite the attack, and touched the lives of many innocent people, including many Georgia State students with relatives in both cities.

“I am shocked but not surprised,” said Blake, a freshman majoring in music. He explained that terrorists hated America for

a long time and this was coming.

Georgia Sate students are mourning and grieving the unbelievable loss the terrorists caused.

As the enormity of the terrorist attack on New York and Washington comes into focus on Wednesday, many students gathered to pray for the missing, the dead and their families.

Atlantans understand the fear and the confusion. They experienced the horror of terrorism back in 1996 at the Olympic Games.

America cannot be knocked out by the terrorist’s act because its people are strong. The terrorists hit the World Trade Center and the Pentagon but they missed America, for it is untouchable.

“I think that this is a time where we as students ought to reflect and collect our thoughts and just reflect on what it means to be American; not act in haste toward any one or any group of people, be that in our local or global community,” said SGA President Jerry Edwards. “I don’t think students should be negative to one another.”

“It’s in Georgia State’s mission to develop community awareness in its students, and students becoming active in the community is excellent, it’s marvelous,” Edwards continued.

MIRANDA SAIN | SIGNAL

Note from the Editor As the 10-year anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks approach, the staff of The Signal felt that it was imperative to devote a portion of this issue to remember this heart-breaking period of our history.

While the personal narratives and the interview contribute greatly, I cannot think of a better way to complete our memorial spread than by breathing new life into the words written by former Signal staffers from the 20012002 year. Thus, the two pieces first appeared in The Signal on Sept. 15, 2001 - the first post-9/11 issue.

The first re-printed article appeared on the front page.

Then staff writer, Isabelle Veitch, captured the reaction of students in the article. Veitch even managed to snap two emotional pictures of students crying and attempting console each other in the Courtyard. In the text of the article, Veitch records the reactions that Prof. Henry Carey alluded to in his interview on the previous page.

While reading this article, please keep in mind that the emotions etched into this story are raw. Veitch also falls into the emotional reporting that most journalists did that day by not remaining objective in parts of

her story. However, these words are relics of a very historical point of time and their importance is not lost.

The second re-print is the editorial by the 2001-2002 Signal staff as a whole. In a time of fear and overreaction, our Signal predecessors showed much wisdom in emphasizing the need for tolerance and maintaining a level-head in our response.

Stacey Evans, the Editorin-Chief at the time, wrote her own editorial emphasizing the importance of unity. She wrote, “We are a diverse nation and being divisive among the difference races, religions, etc. at a time like this will only weaken us. This should be the time for reflecting on the importance of life and individual life…”

Evans’ sentiment of unity should remain in our minds as we reflect on those events that altered not only the New York skyline, but our country as well.

[Note: In order to stay true to the original material, the articles have not been copy edited in any way and have been published in their true form.]

Miranda Sain Editor-in-Chief, The Signal

03

THE SIGNAL | NEWS | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011

Georgia State community remembers 9/11 Henry Carey, Associate Professor of Political Science Interview by Chris Shattuck Transcribed by Miranda Sain

Q: What did you think when you first heard about the attacks on Sept. 11th?

A: It was a Tuesday and I was watching the morning news. I got a phone call from my sister-inlaw who…moved from California to New York…and they had an apartment in Greenwich Village with a south view. They saw the planes hit the World Trade Center.

I originally spoke to Anne, my sister-in-law. She couldn’t bring herself to tell me what happened so she put her husband on the phone and he told me what happened. Then, I looked on T.V. and saw the second one.

I had a lot of personal connections at the World Trade Center cause I worked for the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of New York state in an earlier career….[our offices where] in the World Trade Center. I worked at Two World Trade Center [on the] 43rd floor halfway up the building. I use to love the World Trade Center even though my snobby friends thought it was architecturally boring. I thought it gleamed in the sunshine…you know the whole underground with…the subway trains, all the vitality down underneath and indoors as well as all the street life.

It’s just really an absolutely wonderful environment and I felt part of me - my past was destroyed by that bombing.

Q: How do you think Sept. 11 changed American politics and American foreign policy?

A: Well, it created a national security state. We were already spending a lot on the military, but we went from 3.5 of GDP in defense spending to 5.7. These are

estimates. You can quibble exact figures.

In a sense the criminal justice paradigm was dropped for a war paradigm. We created a declared “war on terrorism”…a term that the Obama administration doesn’t use.

Q: Do you think we’ve learned anything in the past 10 years from 9/11?

A: Lessons that I [drew] from

de-legitimizing the democratic system.

Q: How do you think other countries have perceived the American response to 9/11?

A: Well, obviously with 9/11 itself, we got a lot of sympathy and that was all lost between the Guantanamo scandal and especially with the invasion of Iraq.

So, America was seen in Europe as being the greatest threat to international peace, not any other threat coming from terrorism.

And of course, in the Muslim world especially in North Africa and the Middle East, the United States has seemed to be the cause of terrorism.

Q: How do you think history will remember America’s response to Sept. 11?

A: Perceptions, even by historians, but certainly by the public, are going to be effected… because obviously sympathy for the United State increases if we’re attacked but there may be a tendency to say that the over reaction was responsible for the terrorism.

Certainly, lots of parts of the world would think that. Historians will just simply say that we’re becoming like the enemy to the extent that we resort in extra legal activities.

Stephany Sheriff, Project Nur President

James Dutton, Student Government Association President On the morning of September 11th 2001, I woke up to the radio telling me that a plane had crashed into one of the Twin Towers. I was unsure if this was an accident or some form of terrorism. My mother and I watched in disbelief as the second plane hit the second tower.

This removed all doubt; we were under attack.

I was out of the room, getting ready for work, when my mother frantically called me back to the TV-- another Tower was hit. Looking at the column of dust and smoke on the TV, I could not, would not, believe it. The Tower was behind the smoke…. right? A whole building could not have just collapsed… could it?

Once the dust cleared I still could not believe my eyes. This could not be happening. This is America; we are invulnerable to such acts of horror. How could this be real?

Then I watched as the second Tower fell.

I felt exposed, vulnerable, and

9/11 [were] that the over-reactions of 9/11, like any overreaction, can cause more harm than good. It’s not clear [yet that] the nature of American society has permanently shifted, but…we are now a much less tolerant place.

While I think that there was over reaction in political correctness in trying to be respectful for different groups on campus, that now has become more it seems to be quite acceptable for people to use these words like the N-word and others. I think that society has become…less tolerant of minorities specifically Muslims.

[We have also become] more [use to] justifying [our] arbitrary authoritarian role where we have a law-free zone and those examples of harsh [torture] techniques…three-quarters of the people in Guantanamo were guilty of no crime whatsoever and should never have been there in the first place.

That’s never been a political scandal. The government never responded to the reports…I think the Bush administration just ignored it and the Obama administration allowed it to happen…

That’s how democratic decay occurs. That’s how the violation of civil liberties can lead to undermine and

at the mercy of an evil I did not know who was out to get me until that second. The country that I knew was immune to such atrocity had just been struck a blow rivaling Pearl Harbor.

I felt personally under attack. I was angry. I wanted to find whoever was responsible and hurt them like they hurt me. In the days following, the anger cleared and I started to think again. The desire for revenge turned into a desire to permanently prevent such acts from ever happening again.

In the direct aftermath of such an event, when anger and revenge are our guiding emotions, people have historically opted to forgo their rights in exchange for safety. It is our constitutional responsibility, however, to guard against this tendency toward tyranny. A great man once said, “he who sacrifices freedom for security deserves neither.” And that is never more true than in times of war. While steps must be taken to ensure our safety, we must never let safety come before our rights.

As a native New Yorker living in Queens during Sept.

11, 2001, it was difficult to process what was happening on that day. When my elementary school teacher bustled in to tell us what happened, no one believed her at first, but we each took turns looking out the bathroom window at the smoke coming from the outlined shapes of the buildings and soon reality set in. Smoke filled the skies over the highways that were crowded with frantic parents, husbands, wives and more trying to round up their families and take them home. All eyes were glued to the TV, and phone lines were jammed with people trying to find out if family members had made it safely out of the city. I felt a sense of unity that day, as neighbors looked out for neighbors and checked on friends and family to make sure everyone was accounted for.

The day after was a blur for me. Everyone scrambled for bits of information on what was going on, who was missing, who we’d never see again and what we were going to do about the situation. Later on in the month, terms like

terrorism and Islamic radicals shook the Muslim community that I was an active member of.

Stories of Muslim girls having their hijabs pulled off, Muslims being targeted for hate crimes and more began to circulate and in some cases, the people who were targeted were people I knew personally.

My mosque held Saturday classes ever since I was a little girl and I frequently attended, but after 9/11 we began to notice strange people standing outside after classes were over trying to lure the younger girls to get into cars with them. It was frightening at first because we knew that this was happening because we identified ourselves as Muslims, but our mosque and the local police made sure everyone was safe and prevented any serious issues from occurring.

Even though it is hard to believe that anything positive could be said of the 9/11 tragedy, there were some changes worth noting. The first is that through this the Islamic community grew closer together.

Mosques that were once competing with each other began to look out for one another. Older

children would protect younger children whether they knew each other or not. The most recognizable change was seeing Muslims I didn’t know but being able to smile at them in solidarity, knowing that if anyone of us was ever targeted, we’d stick up for each other. The Muslim communities of New York City were able to put aside cultural differences and band together to project a more positive, peaceful image of Islam.

The second change worth noting is that there were people who weren’t Muslim that defended the Muslim community simply because they knew Muslim families, had Muslim friends and wanted to show their solidarity. While there was an atmosphere of hostility as mentioned before, this hostility was juxtaposed by unity among Muslims and with other communities as well. Sept.

11 reminds us of a day we all wished had never happened but also offered us an opportunity to grow closer together and strive to understand different cultures and religions. Though some people have not taken up this opportunity, we can all benefit from unifying for peace.

04

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011 | NEWS | THE SIGNAL

Staff Editorial: Now is a time for mourning, thought, and tolerance Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2001 will never fade from memory; it will remain forever as a blemish on the face of history, and will be regarded forever in infamy.

The images beamed across our campus stopped our day and our hearts. The two tremendous holes billowing flame and the floors above venting smoke in the World Trade Center; the panicked office personnel plummeting from over 100 stories to their deaths, choosing the impact below over the searing flames and smoke from the dual crashes. The images of smoke rising above the trees in Washington, D.C., the pictures of the wound stabbed into the heart of the Pentagon, America’s symbol of national defense ground zero for America’s weaknesses.

The men and women who died that day were borne into our memories, and a nation searches for answers. Our most fundamental value is freedom, a freedom not enjoyed by any other nation on Earth, not now nor in man’s bewildering past. It is a freedom which is right now being debated in the forums and mediums of our public discourse, and slowly will the answers come.

At this point, it is extremely crucial that emotions be considered, dialogue be encouraged, and answers be found. Someone must pay, and of this there is no question. Crimes of this nature cannot be perpetrated without repercussions on a scale of the greatest magnitude. The world must be left with yet another crucial memory; a memory of what happens when you seek to bring harm to thousands of innocent people. Those who sought to shake the confidence of the United States have only strengthened our resolve, and this resolve is directed squarely at the guilty.

Of that, also, there is no question. However, in this time of great emotion, it must be made resoundingly clear that these vicious acts were crimes that fall on the shoulders of people, not a people.

Hate inspired these crimes of cowardice, but honor must prevail. As we seek our vengeance, as we turn our anger into resolve and stain the Earth with the blood of the guilty, we must first and foremost understand that individuals were responsible. These were perhaps crimes of faith, but not crimes representative of that faith. These crimes were committed in a frame of mind held only by a twisted and wicked few, and not by an entire culture of religion. Individuals alone are guilty; perhaps states share some blame, but the finger need not be pointed any further, nor on any grander level.

We have been spurred to patriotism rapidly. As our walls fell, so did our hearts, and a shocked nation turns to that deeply rooted sense of belonging to move us onward. We know what America has been through, and what America can do. In the words of Johnny Cash, “It’s been through the fire before, and it can take a whole lot more.”

Imagine the lives of those 250 plus intrepid firefighters who stormed the towers after they were struck, seeking only to save lives, and who perished themselves when those same towers fell. Imagine the terror of the airplane passengers who were forced to their deaths by these weak men. Imagine the thousands who perished that fateful day in New York, the hundreds missing in Washington. Imagine their faces; close your eyes and let your cheeks be wetted with tears of mourning, and be unabashed, for a nation weeps with you.

But while our resolve will be sound, our intent must not be foolish. The loathing that encompasses us now, and our sense of loss is completely justified, but reason must prevail. Launching a political war against a holy cause may not be the firmest course of action. Our goals should be clear and attainable. Let us learn from the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution that to pursue any violent means with unclear ends is a formula for senseless loss of life, loss of life as senseless as that we saw on this day last week.

As a nation stirs, a campus stirs, and should Georgia State be asked to respond, an able and patriotic student body will. Our community has been stunned, but the lifeblood of reason that has kept this university firm for generations still flows, and should not be tainted by furious emotion.

In closing, we, the staff of the Signal, ask you to keep in your hearts those who have perished and those who are still to be found from this day forward and to urge careful and solid steps to guide us through our uncertain future.

This was the front page of the Sept. 15 edition of The Signal.

With faith and pride, we are, The Staff of the Signal (2001-2002)

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SIGNAL

05

THE SIGNAL | NEWS | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011

UGA professors offer private

classes to undocumented students

CAMPUS CRIME

TIFFANIE SMITH Staff Writer In response to the Board of Regents policy of barring illegal immigrants from attending some Georgia universities, a few professors at the University of Georgia have begun teaching courses privately to these students in what has become known as “Freedom University”.

The course is taught once a week and held off campus, but because the classes are not associated with any accredited university, they are not offered as college credits. Instead, they provide participants with an option to learn and experience what it is like to attend a college class.

However, the professors involved say they will eventually seek to gain accreditation for the classes so that students may receive credit for their work.

Some students at Georgia State disagree with the concept of the “university.” Junior Kierra Palm believes “Freedom University” is a bad idea because of its lack of accrediation.

“I think it’s a waste because it is not offered as college credit,” said Palm. “I also don’t think it’s fair for students to have to provide legal documentation to Georgia State.”

Recently, UGA students held a protest against the relatively new policy on their campus. The rally consisted of 25 people wearing caps and gowns and walking across an intersection in Athens to the house of admissions on campus.

UGA sophomore Alejandro Galeana had a lot to say about the new policy being effective.

AUGUST 27

University Commons

Officers arrested two Non-GSU individuals and four GSU individuals for Alcoholic Possession under 21 Years Old. At 12:50 a.m. officers were advised of a loud party and made contact with the residents.

Officers then confirmed all individuals in the room were under age and intoxicated. All six individuals were arrested, processed and released on a Copy of Charges. The two Non-GSU individuals were also issued a Criminal Trespass Warning and were escorted off campus without incident.

AUGUST 28

Greek Housing

Officers arrested two GSU students for Alcoholic Possession under 21 Years Old. At 12:25 a.m. officers were advised the two individuals were observed stumbling in front of the security booth. Officers made contact with the individuals and confirmed they were under age and intoxicated. They were arrested, processed and released on a Copy of Charges.

“I want the education after high school because I don’t want to end up a deadbeat,” Galeana said to Chron news. “They’re taking away the education that we have a right to.”

In spite of all the protesting and rallies, students like Palm believe that the new program should be here at Georgia State.

“I think the course should be taught here at Georgia State,” said Palm.

Sophomore Ruby Aveloaneda, the Events Chairmen for the Latin American Student Association (LASA), thinks that Freedom University is a great idea.

“I think that it’s an awesome idea,” said Aveloaneda. “I mean, I’m Latina myself and they should offer

the courses here at Georgia State. I know a couple of people who are illegal and everyone deserves an education.”

Currently, the program is only offered by professors from the University of Georgia and it is unclear if the program will move to other colleges,.The professors offering the program say there is not a connection with the program and the university.

MIT professor Junot Diaz told the Associated Press in an email that he is ready to help Freedom University.

“Whatever they ask of me. I’ll do everything and anything I can,” Diaz told the Associated Press. “This clearly is going to be a long fight.”

>>SAFETY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

AUGUST 29

General Classroom Building

Officers arrested a Non-GSU individual on an Agency Assist. At 6:01 p.m. officers observed the individual roaming the halls and looking into classrooms. Officers conducted a G.C.I.C. check, which confirmed an active warrant. He was issued a C.T.W. and was arrested, processed and transported to Fulton County Jail.

AUGUST 31

Aderhold Learning Center

Officers issued a Non-GSU individual a Criminal Trespass Warning.

At 5:02 p.m. officers were advised of a verbal confrontation and when officers made contact with the individuals they confirmed the NonGSU was looking into unattended backpacks. The Non-GSU individual was issued a C.T.W. and was escorted off campus without incident.

Gilmer St.

Officers arrested a Non-GSU individual for Entering Auto. At 2:56 a.m. officers observed the individual with his body hanging out of a vehicle and broken glass on the ground as well as a large metal rod on the vehicle. The individual was arrested, processed and transported to Fulton County Jail.

Sculpture Building

SEPTEMBER 1

A report was filed for Entering Auto. The complainant, a GSU staff member stated, at 9:55 a.m. she noticed her right rear window was shattered. There were no items reported missing. The case is being handled by Investigations.

Natural Science Building

A report was filed for Theft. The complainant, a Non-GSU individual stated, at 9:45 a.m. he noticed 34 boxes of floor tile was missing. The case is being handled by Investigations.

SEPTEMBER 4

University Commons

Officers arrested three GSU students and four Non-GSU individuals for Alcohol Possession under 21 Years Old. At 1:55 a.m. officers were advised that several individuals were suspected of consuming alcohol.

They were all arrested and released on a copy of charges. The four Non-GSU individuals were also given Criminal Trespass Warnings for two years.

of Coeliac disease, feel that Georgia State is not doing enough to address her concerns.

“Last year, I had to play it very safe with choosing items that I knew

had very little or no gluten because if you wanted to identify what was in something, you had to go through this giant book that was not very well organized and hard to use,” Wildes

said.

She says Georgia State’s apparent lack of interest in caring for those with dietary issues has impacted her social life this year, as she chose to

not purchase a meal plan for this year due to its lack of suitable items.

“I hated [having to not buy a plan]. It was such a huge social thing last year and I feel I’m missing out be-

cause of how easy it was to go down there with friends,” said Wildes.

But Music says that the dining halls can work out issues with stu

THE SIGNAL | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011

OPINIONS

EDITOR SAVANNA KEO

signalIopinions@gmail.com

www.gsusignal.com/opinions

FROM THE EDITORIAL BOARD This fall semester, Georgia State successfully enrolled its largest number of students in the university’s history. With more than 32,000 students now attending, Georgia State is continually growing and expanding its campus within the downtown area. Unfortunately with enrollment numbers rapidly growing, technological development on campus is struggling to keep pace.

Although Georgia State has equipped its freshman classes with iPads and have even implemented a Georgia State Second Life environment, they have fallen short of advancing basic technology on campus.

The university’s Division of Information Systems and Technology (IS&T) recently revealed results of a campus wide survey conducted last April. The top two major concern areas reported were the wireless network and classroom technology.

Students continue to struggle to access vital online services such as GoSolar and PAWS at high volume times. Internal problems range from slow response times to the lack of updates across websites on the server. Students even find themselves unable to pick up wireless connections in the library and are forced to battle for the limited amount of available desktops and laptops there.

While in many of the classrooms on campus there is technology in place, in more than a few you can find certain equipment that doesn’t operate correctly. Also, delayed responses from IS&T to complaints about the equipment have sometimes lasted entire semesters.

These issues call for great attention. The $85 technological fee collected from every enrolled student should guarantee a server that can handle the traffic that comes with a university the size of GSU. The numerous broken links, limited wireless network and lack of information updated online are unacceptable for a campus that prides itself on innovations in technology.

With the new survey results from IS&T, it is imperative that the campus take the concerns of the community seriously and begin to develop ways to make the technological experience more efficient. As students, we rely on the university to provide online and in-class services that are essential to our success and this will only be possible through a drastically increased effort on the part of the university.

FROM THE EDITORIAL BOARD reflects the majority opinion of the Editorial Board of The Signal, but not necessarily the opinions of individual editors

THE SIGNAL Editorial Board Miranda Sain, Editor in Chief ƀLJMishall Rehman, Managing Editor News Editor Campus Life Editor Sports Editor Associate Sports Editor Entertainment Editor Production Editor Assistant Production Editor Online Editor Copy Editor Copy Editor Copy Editor Photography Editor

COPY EDITORS ALICIA JOHNSON MILES KEENLYSIDE

Terrorists on 9/11 hijacked

more than airplanes MISHALL REHMAN Managing Editor It is hard to believe that it has been a decade since I watched in horror along with the rest of the country as terrorists hijacked planes and attacked our country. However, for me, it was more than just airplanes that were hijacked that day. It was my religion and my identity that were also hijacked from me and other Muslims across the country.

Those terrorists tried to tarnish the face of my religion and I’ve spent the last decade trying to restore that image.

To me, the terrorists from that day represented anything, but what Islam is truly about. The terrorists encouraged murdering in the name of religion and made the world believe that murdering was a part of Islam.

In fact, there is no such concept in Islam at all. Throughout our Holy Book, The Quran, and sayings of our Prophet Muhammad, it is evident that Islam strongly discourages killing.

The Quran says that if someone kills another person, then it is as if they have killed the all of humanity. The Prophet of Islam strongly hated any sort of violent actions, let alone murdering. Prophet Muhammad has said, “God has made the blood, property and honor of every human being sacred.”

The terrorists encouraged violence and hatred. As a result, the world also believed that this was a part of Islam. This is especially ironic, because the word Islam itself means peace. The Islamic greeting of “Assalamo Alaikum” means peace be unto you.

There are laws in Islam against harming everything from people to trees. The concept

GEORGIA STUDENTS FOR PUBLIC HIGHER EDUCATION Frankly speaking, we are tired of reading offensive and reactionary articles that scream, “I hate poor people.” Last week’s article by Judy Kim in The Signal does just that. Kim argues, “Education is not a right, but a big business.”

The core of her argument seems to rest on an arbitrary distinction between K-12 and higher education. She argues we get the first twelve grades free, and we’re on our own after that. Without any evidence, she makes the bold claim that it’s “very possible for one to get a job and make a living without a college degree.” However the unemployment rate among high school graduates is over twice that of those with bachelor’s degrees, a statistic cited in an article published in the very same issue of The Signal.

But let us address the idea of whether or not education is a right: No, education is not a right. Education is a civic responsibility. We cannot function as a society without developing ourselves to be critical thinkers, intellectually and socially. One of the best places to do this is at a university. When a university becomes a business; the ability for students to become critical thinkers is

of peace is deeply imbedded into the Islamic faith, far from anything that the terrorists around the world try to paint.

And lastly, the terrorists encouraged disloyalty to the country you reside in and made the world believe that Muslims were not loyal to their country of residence. This idea is completely opposite of what is found in Islam. The Quran stresses the importance of being obedient to the people who are in authority and the leaders of a nation.

The Prophet Muhammad has said, “Love of one’s country of residence is part of faith.”

Therefore, it is evident that Islam mandates the loyalty of Muslims to its country of residence.

I deeply resent the terrorists not only from that day, but ever since that day that have around the world who have become the face of Islam without actually representing a hint of what Islam really is about.

Though the terrorists have attempted to destroy the image of Islam, they have not succeeded. You see, the truth is that Muslims practicing the real Islam are in the real majority.

I am a Muslim American who is patriotic and loyal to America. I love the country I am from and my religion is peaceful and does not encourage any sort of terrorist or violent activity.

So this September 11th, as the country comes together to mourn the ten year anniversary of that tragic day, I, along with my mosque, will be remembering this day by taking part in a nationwide blood drive in an effort to support America, save lives and reclaim my religion back from the terrorists that hijacked it that day.

profoundly challenged. A university functioning as a business packs its students into classrooms and gives standardized tests as it pushes us out the door. Our diploma becomes a receipt. The university is no longer about education, but about profit.

Kim argues that students have simply “misunderstood” the purpose of a university. But in fact, it may be Kim that has misunderstood. While she admits that the university has become a business, she is more than willing to accept this as not only okay, but also not the university’s fault. If students don’t like it, Kim says, “Search for a damn scholarship. Apply for many. Do some real work.”

Statements like this are blatantly offensive to every single student at this school who works long hours, studies through the night, and worries about how they’re going to pay for this semester’s tuition – all so they can receive an education.

The university is a business and this is precisely the problem. Since 2007, student mandatory fees have risen from $463 to $1064. Tuition has risen 46 percent since 2008.

This has all occurred alongside cuts to departments, causing teachers to have to CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

07

THE SIGNAL | NEWS | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011 ‘go green’ and no longer print materials for their students. Teachers and workers have been furloughed, class sizes increased and supplies cut. This is what a business calls “efficiency.� But apparently, Kim

dent Mark Becker receives more than a $600,000 salary in addition to a housing stipend. We have our scholarship money for books taken away.

That’s not the worst of it. Ex-

know that we work for what we want to earn and that nothing in life is ever really truly given.�

It’s time we tell the truth about what’s going on around us. We’re working hard, and it’s still not

THE SIGNAL STAFF INFORMATION EDITOR IN CHIEF

“Our diploma becomes a receipt.

The university is no longer about education, but about profit.�

says we’re supposed to trust that all of the budget cuts and increased fees “will be put into good use.�

And where is the “good use� of our increased tuition going to?

It’s certainly not into your education, but it does seem to go in the pockets of our highest-ranking administrators. Georgia State Presi-

presidents and chancellors are getting paid hundreds of thousands of dollars for years after their retirement. Former Georgia State President Carl Patton was paid $365,571 in 2009, the year after he left office.

Kim concludes her article by stating, “After 18 years, I would like to think we’re all grown enough to

enough. We’re not lazy or stupid, and we want our education more than ever. We’re tired from standing on our feet all day at work, and we’re tired about worrying whether or not we can pay for each new fee.

We want an education, and we want it now.

Miranda Sain signaleditor@gmail.com MANAGING EDITOR Mishall Rehman signalmanaging@gmail.com NEWS EDITOR Chris Shattuck signalnewseditor@gmail.com CAMPUS LIFE EDITOR Angel White signalliving@gmail.com SPORTS EDITOR Saakib Zafrani thesignalsport@gmail.com ASSOCIATE SPORTS EDITOR D.J. Dunson dunsondj@gmail.com ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Brooke Marshall signalentertainment@gmail.com PRODUCTION EDITOR Bennett Greer signalprod@gmail.com ASSISTANT PRODUCTION EDITOR Aysha Johnson signalprod2@gmail.com PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Judy Kim liljudykim@yahoo.com ONLINE EDITOR Brittany Williams signalwebsite@gmail.com COPY/OPINION EDITORS Savannah Keo Miles Keenlyside Alicia Johnson signalopinions@gmail.com ADVERTISING COORADINATOR Joey Commander jcommander1@student.gsu.edu CIRCULATION MANAGER Brian Echols signaldistribution@gmail.com OFFICE ASSISTANTS Jared Cate Brianna Alvarez Sean Dias STUDENT MEDIA ADVISOR Bryce McNeil bmcneil1@gsu.edu

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THE SIGNAL | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011

SPORTS

EDITOR Saakib Zafrani

ASSOCIATE EDITOR D.J. Dunson

dunsondj@gmail.com

www.gsusignal.com/sports

theisignalsport@gmail.com

GSU wins the battle of the Panthers 41-7

Tiffanie Smith Staff Writer With 27,273 fans in attendance, Georgia State beat Clark Atlanta in the Battle of the Panthers with a score of 41-7 in the first game of the season.

Sophomore Bo Schletcher made his first college start as a quarterback, and completed 13 out of 18 passes for 196 yards in the game with three touchdowns.

“We had a quarterback who had never played a college game at

quarterback and we had zero turnovers,” head coach Bill Curry said.

“In my fondest dreams, I would have struggled to believe that.”

The Panthers defense made a statement in the first quarter forcing Clark Atlanta not to score during their first possession. Sophomore running back Travis Evans ran for 30 yards resulting in a 44yard field goal attempt made by freshman Chris-

tian Benvenuto, ending the first quarter 3-0.

In the second quarter, junior running back Donald Russell, who transferred from Kentucky in the offseason, ran in for two touchdowns and averaged 8-yards-per-carry in the first half.

“We had terrific backs before, but Donald makes a difference when he handles the ball, and you saw that tonight,”

Curry said. “He has the capacity and the physicality to punish tacklers and spin away and run away from some others.

That’s a gift, and a lot of great backs have that.”

Schlechter made another big play by making a 12-yard pass to sophomore Jordan Giles resulting in another touchdown, giving the Panthers a 24-0 lead to take into halftime.

“This was my first

college start, but I tried to come out confident,” Schlechter said. “It was just getting some plays run and I was able to build up some confidence going into the second quarter.”

On the third drive of the second half, Schlechter through a jump ball in the corner of the endzone and Albert Wilson went over the defender and came down with the score, giving Georgia

State a 31-0 lead.

In the first play of the fourth quarter, CAU tasted a bit of the endzone with a 34-yard touchdown pass by quarterback Bryan Mann to Terrence Milton. With the score at 34-7, it was too little too late.

Schlechter and Wilson hooked up once more half way through the fourth, as Wilson beat the coverage and Schlechter hit him in stride for a 68-

yard touchdown.

Just as they did last season in the inaugural game, Georgia State walked away with a 41-7 victory, and looked much improved in the run game and pass defense. Their first true test will come against future CAA rival Old Dominion this Saturday at noon in the Georgia Dome.

THE SIGNAL | NEWS | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011

09

10

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011 | SPORTS | THE SIGNAL

Newcomers lead the way at UGA Invitational Saakib Zafrani Sports Editor

Women’s cross country started their season with a third place finish at the UGA invitational behind Georgia and Alabama, while the men placed fifth.

Freshman Hannah Stefanoff led the way, and finished in sixth place overall for the women with a time of 18:13.95 in the 5K run.

Valentin Poncelet, who transferred from American International College, had the top finish for the men’s team, as he placed 20th overall with a time of 26:12.94 in the 8K run.

“The newcomers helped in the results,” head coach Chris England told Georgia State Athletics. “They are already some of the top runners on the team. They push their teammates and raise the competitiveness of the whole team.”

Junior Katherine Showalter also finished in the top ten, only .30 seconds behind Stefanoff’s pace for seventh place. Freshman Sarah McCarthy also had a promising top 20 finish for the women, as she crossed the finish line with a time of 18:50.53 for 17th place.

Men’s track and field stand out, sophomore Tyler Tomy, finished 81st overall with fellow sophomore Chris Manning at 84th and freshman Pierre Brogniet in 87th.

Senior Chris Harper finished second for the men’s team at 49th overall with a time of 27:38.45.

This was a very competitive tournament that featured teams like

GEORGIA STATE SPORTS COMMUNICATIONS

Women finish strong at UGA Invitational.

Georgia, Alabama and Georgia Tech, along with seven others from the southeast region. England was satisfied with the team’s performance given the level of competition they were up against.

“Both teams were motivated coming into the meat and eager to show what Georgia State is about,”

England told Athletics. “We came to a competitive meet to start the season, but both teams were up to the challenge.

Georgia finished tops on both the men’s and women’s side, while Alabama finished third in men’s and second in women’s. The men’s team finished behind Georgia, Georgia

Tech, Alabama and Mercer respectively.

Cross country has another tough meet at the Auburn Invitational this Friday. Along with the hosts, Auburn, the competition will include Southern Mississippi, Kennesaw State and Florida State among others.

The level of competition will be

high, but England is optimistic after seeing his team at the UGA invitational.

“Next week is another great meet wit ha lot of competition,” England told Athletics. “Seeing how we fared today against tough teams, I know it brings out the best in our runners.”

Falcons begin Super Bowl quest at Soldier Field

Matt Ryan will have to lead the Falcons in the playoffs if they hope to win a Super Bowl

D.J. Dunson Associate Sports Editor On Sunday, Sept. 11, the Atlanta Falcons will begin their 2011 season in a similar manner to their last season’s conclusion—against a storied NFC North franchise. In January’s playoffs, The Falcons were exposed by the Green Bay Packers offense.

On Sunday, the Falcons will travel

to Soldier Field and begin their 2011 campaign against the Chicago Bears’ suffocating defense.

The Falcons and Bears will begin their seasons without much hype but with serious Super Bowl aspirations. The Falcons will debut their explosive rookie receiver, Julio Jones against last season’s stingiest defense. Jones looked spectacular in

MARK WALLHEISER | UPI

the preseason, but the regular season is a different beast.

After having his knee surgically repaired in the offseason, Bears quarterback Jay Cutler will look to redeem and repair his damaged reputation against the Falcons pass defense.

Cutler’s toughness has been questioned ever since he stood alone on the sidelines in silence as the Packers

ended the Bears Super Bowl run in the NFC title game.

It will be the first test of the new season for the Falcons secondary, which appeared to have many of the same holes during the preseason.

Now in the second year of his $57 million contract, Dunta Robinson will have to step up and prove he was worth the lucrative deal.

Fortunately, the Falcons secondary shouldn’t be too threatened

by Chicago’s receiving corps, which now includes ex-Cowboys receiver Roy Williams but lacks an established number one receiver. Their leading receiver last season was Johnny Knox, who finished with 51 receptions for 960 yards and 5 touchdowns Cutler’s surgically repaired knee has looked stable in the preseason, however it remains to be seen whether the Bears have plugged the leaks along their porous offensive line. The Bears offensive line allowed the NFL’s most sacks in 2010 and surrendered nine sacks in the preseason opener against the Bills. Conversely, the Falcons will be testing their new toy along the defensive line in defensive end, Ray Edwards.

The key to winning the game for

the Falcons will be to pressure Cutler with their defensive ends John Abraham and Edwards. Cutler has always been one of the most turnover prone signal callers in the NFL since being traded to Chicago in 2009. The Bears’ gunslinger has thrown 42 interceptions and had 11 multi-interception games in two seasons. Part of the reason can be attributed to Chicago’s aforementioned offensive line, which has allowed Cutler to be sacked 87 times over the last two seasons.

Offensively, it will be extremely difficult for Falcons’ running back Michael Tuner to gain significant yards on the ground against a defense that allowed the second fewest yards in the NFL last season. The Bears key to victory will rely on shutting down the Falcons running game and physically pressuring Matt Ryan into making uncharacteristically bad throws.

Defensive end Julius Peppers is familiar with punishing Falcons quarterbacks from his time with the Carolina Panthers.

If the Falcons want to re-establish itself as a Super Bowl contender after its playoff debacle with the Packers, a victory in Week 1 would be a convincing start.

11

THE SIGNAL | SPORTS | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011

Muki Kangwa shines in GSU Invitational despite loss ZAKKIYYA ANDERSON Staff Writer

The Georgia State volleyball record went to 4-3 last weekend as the Panthers hosted the GSU Invitational.

The Panthers won their Friday match against Jacksonville State (1-6), but fell to both Harvard (2-1) and the College of Charleston (3-3) Saturday.

Senior all-star Vineece Verdun was out with a leg injury, but several of the Panthers stepped up their game this weekend at the Sports Arena.

Georgia State finished off the Gamecocks 3-1 (25-22, 25-27, 25-19, 25-10) with two Panthers recording doubledoubles on Friday.

Senior Muki Kangwa (16 kills, 11 digs) and junior Ja-

SAAKIB ZAFRANI Sports Editor Old Dominion defeated Georgia State last season 3420 due to costly errors by a fledgling Panther team. Now, in their encore season, the Panthers look to even the score at home this Friday.

The Panthers coughed up the ball four times in last season’s matchup and had numerous costly penalties. They found themselves in a 34-6 hole in the fourth quarter, but showed their resiliency by closing the game out with 14 unanswered points.

mie Freeman (17 digs, 11 kills) teamed up to give the Panthers their first and only win at the invitational. The match kept fans on the edge of their seats, as both teams experienced rallies and comebacks in the back and forth battle.

Emily Averbeck had an 18 dig performance over the Gamecocks — including a diving dig into the Panther sideline which resulted in a Loren Beverly kill.

The Panthers dropped both matches Saturday despite fantastic individual efforts.

Kangwa had career high 29 kills on the Crimson, but it was not enough overcome the consistent Harvard offense.

Harvard took out the Panthers 3-2 with set scores of 25-22, 25-16, 22-25, 22-25, and 15-13.

Kangwa recorded her 29-kill performance in the third set victory.

In their second contest of the night the Panthers lost 3-1 (25-20, 25-21, 29-31, 25-21) against the College of Charleston. Georgia State lost the first sets due to large deficits they could not overcome.

In the third set, the Panthers showed they wouldn’t go away without a fight. The set went into extra points after Georgia State tied the set 2525, and finished off the Cougars 31-29.

Freeman had four kills in the final set, but it wasn’t enough to win the match.

The Cougars had a total of 63 kills in the contest, and had an overall record of 3-0 for the weekend to win the invitational.

Kangwa was the only Panther to earn all-invitational honors with 65 kills, 35 digs and five blocks.

The Panthers look to win

Tuesday against Troy University (5-2). The Trojans are on a five game winning streak, having beaten Tennessee State, 3-1, most recently.

Play will begin at 7 p.m. at the GSU Sports Arena.

Drew Little, last year’s starting quarterback, put up 414 yards on 32-of-53 passes with no interceptions. Little’s suspension from the offseason has been lifted, but Bo Schlechter will most likely get the starting nod in week two.

Schlechter put up effective numbers of his own in the season opener last Friday with 196 yards on 13-of-18 passes and three touchdowns. Clark Atlanta was Schlechter’s first collegiate start at quarterback, and the sophomore proved he has what it takes to lead the offense.

Georgia State had their

way with Old Dominion’s secondary last season, but their run game was abysmal, gaining only 58 yards. The run defense was equally poor allowing the Monarchs to run wild with 229 yards.

Head coach Bill Curry looked to address the run game on both sides of the ball through off-season signings.

With wholesale additions to the defense and picking up transfer Donald Russell from Kentucky, the Panthers look to take another shot at ODU’s run game.

Russell ran for 56 yards and averaged 6.2 yards-per-

carry. His first two carries as a Panther were touchdowns.

His hardnosed style adds a much-needed downhill run game that comes in handy in short yardage and goal line situations.

Travis Evans averaged a healthy 6.5 yards-per-carry on eight touches, and alongside Parris Lee, will add a certain level of finesse to compliment Russell’s style.

All-purpose Albert Wilson has the ability to play any skill position on the offense including receiver. He caught three passes for 85 yards and two touchdowns last week,

and also played quarterback in high school. Don’t be surprised to see Wilson under center in the wildcat formation. On top of all of this, Wilson is also the team’s return specialist.

The Monarchs have also added an all-purpose athlete to their ranks. Antonio Vaughan had an impressive debut against Campbell University in ODU’s season opener last week, as he finished with 191 all-purpose yards and two touchdowns.

Returning under center for ODU is Thomas DeMarco, who passed for 317 yards

on 29-of-39 with two touchdowns. DeMarco also added another score on the ground with his dual threat ability.

The Monarchs also impressed defensively in their season opener with five total sacks, one interception and one fumbler recovery.

With both teams rearmed and ready to meet once more, this Friday will be the Panthers first true test of the season.

THE SIGNAL | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011

EDITOR Brooke Marshall

signalentertainment@gmail.com

ENTERTAINMENT www.gsusignal.com/entertainment

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Paul DeMerritt

Dragon*Con After Dark ZACK KRAIMER Staff Writer There are very few things that portray Atlantan culture as accurately as Dragon*Con. Sure, we love our football and potluck dinners, but Atlanta’s true colors really shine through at this mammoth gathering of all things nerdy and rowdy. Daytime at Dragon*Con is a blast, but the nightlife is the main attraction for many attendees.

Dragon*Con, for those unfamiliar, is the biggest multimedia pop culture convention in the world, and it’s been held annually right here in Atlanta for 25 years running. Science fiction, fantasy, literature, comics, gaming and art are all represented at this one-of-a-kind event.

The Peachtree Center hotel district of Downtown, comprised of the Marriott Marquis, the Hyatt Regency, the Hilton and the Westin, is abuzz every Labor Day weekend with thousands of nerds and fanatics from all over the country and the world. They come for both the structured convention itself and the notorious partying that follows every night, affectionately dubbed “Nerdi Gras” for its debauched splendor. It was into this environment that I thrust myself this weekend, and it wasn’t one I’ll soon forget.

Most of the attendees wore costumes of some sort, many of them professional movie-grade outfits that took all year to prepare. The costumes were typically characters from comics, books, movies or mimicked the likeness of many others in the public eye.

Much of the convention’s appeal is observing these costumes and getting pictures with those in the best ones. After all, where else can one

chat amicably with Severus Snape (of Harry Potter fame) and Monty Python’s monks simultaneously?

Nerds need love too, and Dragon*Con is a great place for them to get some. At Dragon*Con, attendees can literally be anyone they want, which can be a cathartic experience for those who may have been less popular in school. Complimenting one’s Storm Trooper costume could equate to congratulating a high school quarterback on a winning game.

Most of the costumes I saw were done in good taste — insulting ones were generally shied away from during the day out of respect for the many child attendees.

Partial (or full) nudity is common in nighttime costumes, but ideologically offensive costumes are seldom seen.

I saw plenty of lectures, workshops, and signings during both day and night — there’s never a lull in activity from the morning until the last of them stumble back to their overpriced hotel rooms.

Although people certainly dress up and go wild during the daytime portion, Dragon*Con’s majesty is best observed at night.

In the past, anyone could dress up and take part in the nighttime festivities, regardless of whether they’d purchased a festival ticket.

That’s not the case these days, since festival organizers released official statements this year stating that anyone admitted to the hotel lobbies (and thus the convention) had to have either a festival badge or a hotel room key.

This was done to address safety concerns, among other things, but it removed many elements of Dragon*Con that Atlantans have held

dear for the past quarter century.

Dragon*Con was unfathomably crowded day and night; it’s nearly impossible to take a few steps without interrupting a photo opportunity or treading on a Darth Vader’s robe (there are lots of those).

At its most packed it can nearly induce claustrophobia — I felt it once or twice — but I simply accepted that the population was high in the strange world these folks had created for themselves.

The events during the night were usually geared toward more adult audiences. Everything from the

writer’s workshop “21 Ways to Kill Your Novel” to a “mature” costume competition were enjoyed alongside beers and “voodoo buckets,” liquor drinks literally served in small buckets.

The late-night parties in hotel lobbies and rooms were, quite simply,

salacious. Inhibitions melted away with the partygoers’ true identities, and it’s true that almost anything goes at Dragon*Con within reason.

When they weren’t at one of the several raves that took place during the SEE DRAGON*CON PAGE 16

CHRIS SHATTUCK | SIGNAL

Stormtroopers wandered the streets of Atlanta during the Dragon*Con parade.

13

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011 | SPORTS | THE SIGNAL

Michael Ian Black on comedy, Twitter, snacks MICHAEL RABALAIS Staff Writer If you’ve seen the “I Love the ‘70s/’80s/’90s/New Millennium” series, you’ve probably found yourself cracking up at Michael Ian Black’s unique brand of sarcasm.

Of course, his resume is a bit longer than just cracking wise about pop culture. Black has supplied the voice for the Pets.com sock puppet, guest-starred on the bizarre Adult Swim offerings “Tom Goes to the Mayor,” “Robot Chicken” and “Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!” and done his time with the comedy troupes The State and Stella.

He’s also one-half of “Michael & Michael Have Issues” and the man behind the world’s first Twitter war, during which he challenged LeVar Burton to see who could garner the most followers.

His latest project, a comedy tour in support of his hour-long stand-up special and CD, Very Famous, takes him through Atlanta Sept. 8. Black took some time out from his busy touring schedule to talk to The Signal.

Michael Rabalais: Thanks for taking the time to speak with

us. Even though we’re speaking over the phone, I want to assure you I’ve dressed in a 3-piece suit.

That’s how serious this is.

Michael Ian Black: That’s good. I have one on too. In preparation.

MR: That’s excellent news.

So let’s start real broad brush.

Where might our readers know you from?

MIB: They may not. They might be totally ignorant. And what am I gonna tell them? Tell them to know my s--t? No. I don’t give a s--t. They know who I am.

They asked me to come, and I came. And I’m delighted to be here. They probably know me from various television shows, many of which have been cancelled after one season.

MR: And how do you feel about that?

MIB: Not good.

MR: That’s not what I expected to hear.

MIB: I would prefer it if shows that I created and starred in lasted longer than six or 10 episodes. That would be great.

MR: Now, you’re going to be in Atlanta in a little less than a week to promote your new CD and a Comedy Central special.

How long did it take you to get your set nailed down?

MIB: The set I did for Comedy Central? Eight to 10 months.

MR: And what was that process like?

MIB: It was a lot of going to comedy clubs and doing shows and continually reworking and revising and reordering and trying to get it as good as it could be. A set is never finished. You just keep going.

MR: When did you start doing comedy?

MIB: I started in college with a group called The State.

MR: And when did you start doing comedy solo?

MIB: Maybe four or five years ago. I was doing some VH1 shows and I got offers to do standup.

MR: Was that a tough transition to make?

MIB: I had been doing a lot of acting before that and a lot of performing, so no. It’s a different skill set. You have to learn how to be onstage by yourself and how to hold an audience by yourself. It’s not a radical departure.

MR: A lot of your current set draws from personal experiences.

Is it difficult to be so honest in front of a crowd?

MIB: No, it’s not difficult. I don’t have any fears about exposSEE INTERVIEW PAGE 16

JUNIA ABAIDOO Staff Writer August 27 was a bustling day for Atlanta’s underground hip-hop hub.

The Loft, newly opened urban apparel store Fly Kix and throngs of fans were graced with the talents of three of hiphop’s most dynamic up-and-coming artists — Cyhi Da Prynce, Cory Gunz and Kendrick Lamar — during an album signing and hip-hop show organized by local clothing company The Jeanocide.

The show was especially anticipated due to its hot list of performers.

Representing one of the most influential camps in hip-hop was GOOD music’s and Atlanta’s own Cyhi Da Prynce, who has received acclaim for his work with Kanye West.

Young Money’s Corey Gunz was also on the bill. Gunz has garnered buzz with the production of his hit MTV show “Son of a Gun” and a steady flow of free mixtapes. Although YMCMB and GOOD music were definitely in the building and anticipated, most fans came out for one man with a much less glossy backing.

West coast rapper and Compton, Cali. native Kendrick Lamar served as the show’s headliner. Lamar is currently one of the hottest independent acts in any genre.

His debut album, Section 80, became an instant hit for its abounding substance and rebel approach. Section 80 has also created a huge buzz on iTunes, opening up in front of industry

monsters like Adele and Lady Gaga.

Lamar has been endorsed as one of the best up-and-coming rappers in hiphop by virtually all of the West coast, including big names such as Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg and The Game.

The day began with a brief meet and greet with Lamar, Cyhi Da Prynce and Lamar’s labelmate Schoolboy Q. Although fans and media personalities had to wait a couple hours after the scheduled signing time, the threesome eventually arrived to greet fans, pose for pictures and autograph everything ranging from iPads to Air Jordan sneakers.

The signing was held at Fly Kix, a smooth new store located on Peters Street that’s hosted a number of celebrity figures already.

The Jeanocide, a burgeoning clothing company out of Atlanta, put together the events of the day, and many modeled their unique T-shirt designs at the show and signing.

After the signing came the show that was the talk of the city. The Loft features an intimate but large environment that allows artists to maintain a full crowd but still be close enough to make eye contact with members of the crowd.

Opening acts included New Orleans rapper REI and metal/hip-hop band ACI. Cyhi Da Prynce was the first big name to perform, and he ripped the stage with energy and audacity. The audience, supporting the hometown star, was electric during the performance.

Corey Gunz followed Cyhi’s per-

formance. He has potential as an artist — just listen to his lyrical talents on hit songs such as “6 foot 7 foot” and “House Party” — but his show proved to be a bust. During the entirety of his performance, Gunz never seemed sure of his actions and came off as unprepared due to his lack of a personal DJ or hype man.

Not long after it started, Gunz’ performance was over due to miscues with the DJ, and he was followed offstage by a chorus of boos.

Lamar’s performance followed and showed Atlantan hip-hop fans why he is regarded as one of the brightest young stars in the genre. Lamar immediately gripped the crowd, opening with his mixtape hit “The Heart.” His stage presence was unmatched throughout the night, and fans screamed lyrics verbatim as he performed songs like “F--k Your Ethnicity” and “Michael Jordan” and moshed in exhilaration as he performed “Watch out for Detox.” All the while, Lamar kept his fans involved in the close setting without losing his energetic staccato approach that he has become known for.

The most powerful aspect of Lamar’s performance, however, was the message. His purpose as a positive and uplifting rapper was never forgotten as he sparked fans to chant against the abuse of alcohol and drugs during the oft-praised “A.D.H.D.,” made an effort to connect with and uplift the young women of the crowd in “No Makeup” and basically revolutionize the world with “Hiiipower.”

14

TUESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2011 | ENTERTAINMENT | THE SIGNAL

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Shared Rainbow 02 A Low in the Sky (Pattern Based) School EP 03 Schmunday ill.Gates (False Profit Records) Traffic 04 Mirror Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks (Matador)

The Game The R.E.D. Album

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Sleeping Bag

Sleeping Bag (Joyful Noise)

Canyons 12 Blasted Blasted Canyons (Castle Face Records) of Love 13 Out Mister Heavenly (Sub Pop)

Through the timeless medium of loppy lo-fi garage rock dosed with psychedelia and subtle surf influences, Wooden Shjips take on the mythology and romanticism of the American West.

This indie rock supergroup features members of Islands, Modest Mouse and Man Man, who effortlessly meld their styles together for a gleeful LP of Brian Wilsoninspired pop.

Velvet Snow Ball 14 Red Pepper Rabbit (Kanine Records) 91 15 Program Razika (Smalltown 12) Ornament 16 The Gold Leaves (Hardly Art) Cave 17 Freak Voyageurs (Self Released) Down 18 Slow Hyde and Beast (Tailfeather Records) Dots 19 Joining Planes (Lab Beat) Books & Mark McGuire 20 Trouble Trouble Books & Mark McGuire (Bark and Hiss) Ambient 21 Slave $!ƍ .ƍ+*ƍ .1#/ƍĨ ! .!0(5ƍ * Freedom 22 Weird Little Gold (Loud Baby)

23 Wander/Wonder Balam Acab (Tri Angle) 24 Greneberg Greneberg (Decon Records) 25

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Grant Olsen of Arthur & Yu fame brings his soft tenor for an album that’s brimming with autumnal harmonies.

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Hella (Sargent House)

Pants 26 James James Pants (Stones Throw)

27 Glazin’ Jacuzzi Boys (Hardly Art) 28 Mosaik Siriusmo (Monkeytown Records) 29 Unpersons The Pack A.D. (Mint Records) Weapons 30 Legendary 1ĥ *#ƍĨ! *!ƍ 1/% Ċ

Discovered by while still in high school, James Pants’s self-titled LP hearkens back to ’80s soul sensibilities and somehow manages to make disco sound not entirely embarrassing.

I’m not sure if The R.E.D. Album is an achievement or an indication of the sad state of rap music. The Game is a talented rapper who seems to have as many different styles as he has friends in the rap game. The problem is that for all the guest appearances The R.E.D. Album has, it still leaves something to be desired.

Don’t get me wrong: The R.E.D. Album is an excellent listen and should put The Game’s name back into the conversation as one of rap’s most prominent and skilled characters. During his absence, he never lost his ability to tell a story, and that’s apparent from the album’s start. With the help of Cool & Dre and Kendrick Lamar, The Game comes out guns blazing on “The City,� the album’s best track. “I’m from the city where two of the best died / rest in peace to both of ‘em / spit like I’m the ghost of ‘em,� he declares, and then goes on to reminds those who forgot about him just how good he is: “Name your top 10 / I’m harder than the most of ‘em.�

But the problem with this track, and so many others on the album, is that The Game is constantly outshined on his own song. On “Martians vs. Goblins,� featuring Lil Wayne and Tyler, the Creator, it’s Tyler’s verse that proves better than The Game’s imitation this time. The Odd Future frontman steals the show with such witty one-liners as, “Now my future’s brighter than Christopher’s new haircut,� and somehow manages to diss Bruno Mars, Tyler Perry, Dr. Dre, Bishop Eddie Long, Lebron James and even the Game himself — all within one verse.

But as packed as Tyler, the Creator’s verse is, it doesn’t compare to the length and number of guest appearances of The R.E.D. Album. Although excess is certainly in — see Jay-Z and Kanye West’s Watch the Throne — on The R.E.D. Album, it’s too much. The album is 22 songs, including 4 interludes by Dr. Dre, and features an astonishingly long list of features. Snoop Dogg, Drake, Rick Ross, Beanie Sigel, Young Jeezy, E-40, Big Boi, Lloyd, Wale, Mario, Chris Brown, Luu Breeze and Nelly Furtado as well as the artists already mentioned all join The Game along the ride at some point, making the album feel almost more like a DJ Khaled or Drama album than a solo artist’s long-awaited fourth album.

But for those who remember

The Game as he used to be, with 50 Cent and Dr. Dre by his side, you can’t help but feel like something is missing. And what’s missing, of course, are 50 Cent’s catchy hooks and the good doctor behind the scenes crafting the canvases in which The Game paints his vivid pictures.

This isn’t to say that The Game’s album is lacking good hooks and beats, but his limitations as a rapper are magnified when you realize that all but one of his hooks are supplied by another rapper, a sample or an R&B crooner. And what’s up with the Dr. Dre spoken word interludes?

How can you have one of the greatest and most influential beat makers on your side but only use him for four overly dramatic but mostly useless interludes that make an already long album longer?

The R.E.D. Album is a good record; it shows The Game’s ability to work with just about anyone on almost any kind of song about a wide range of subjects. The problem is that it seems like the best album The Game can make at this point in his career — an issue for all those fans who remember how good he used to be. — Michael Messing, Staff Writer

Tinariwen Tassili

audible, and the guitarwork, while virtuosic, nevertheless occasionally slips into a wrong note here and there.

The album opens with the rusty drone of “Imidiwan Ma Tennam.� The instrumentation blends together into a foggy soup, backed by the sparest percussion — mostly dry hand claps — with weary voices singchanting a simple but captivating vocal line. Next up is the cold and bluesy but lovely “Tenere Taqqim Tossam,� whose call-and-response lyrics give way to the punctuated falsetto of the chorus: “You are the treasure of / my / soul.� The vocals are genuine and urgent, sounding almost like a plea.

The song ends with a cyclical melody, beneath which a speech is intoned in a deep voice, adding an unexpected layer of depth and power.

Lest you think the album is nothing but dusty depression, “Imidiwan Win Sahara� brings with it a sunny, upbeat feel, “Tamidittin Tan Ufrawan� is a slow but joyful burn, and “Iswegh Attay� marks the warm and lovely close to the album.

This warmth is an important component to the blues. Even though the genre is rooted in sadness, it flowers up into a sense of acceptance, even joy. This wide range of emotion finds a home on Tassili — a notable accomplishment, considering only snatches of the lyrics are sung in English. What Tinariwen reminds us is that even though we may come from different cultures, speak different dialects and embark on entirely different experiences, we can ultimately come together on the inarticulate plane of emotion through the universal language: music. — Brooke Marshall, Entertainment Editor

Anti- Records

The problem with the blues is that it all-too-often lacks the authenticity the genre demands. I mean, come on, who really takes an artist like Eric Clapton seriously? Being a millionaire blues musician is a contradiction in terms.

That authenticity is what makes Tinariwen so refreshing — well, that and the music. Straight out of Saharan North Africa, the band consists of seven Tuareg musicians who met a shade over three decades ago in a refugee camp in Libya. If that isn’t fodder for the blues, nothing is.

Tassili, the band’s fifth album, dusts off this aging genre, updating it with a touch of rock and a splash of trance. Featuring guest appearances from the likes of Wilco guitarist Nels Cline, TV on the Radio’s Tunde Adebimpe and Kyp Malone and the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Tassili utterly embodies the soul and spirit of the blues.

Polish and precision have no place on the album. Organic and human, the vocals may emerge as a dry croak, the percussion section often consists entirely of handclaps, the breathing of the musicians may be

Late Love Wolves Like Us Jocelyn Crawley Staff Writer

If you want to hear something that sounds like a little bit of everything, Wolves Like Us’s debut album, Late Love, might be right for you. Although many music critics have called the group a rock band, its work transcends these categorical boundaries. On Late Love, the group discusses everything from fate to death. In addition to their thoughtful lyrics, the group blends strong bass and slightly maniacal drums to create a unique and strangely melodic appeal. In essence, the album seems SEE ALBUM PAGE 16

15

TUESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2011 | ENTERTAINMENT | THE SIGNAL

Atlanta Events WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 7

Deadmau5, Tommy Lee, DJ Aero Excision

Electro’s poster child brings his signature insanity for a two-night romp at The Tabernacle with support from glam-rocker-turned-DJ Tommy Lee, and local favorite Excision.

The Tabernacle, 152 Luckie St. // 7:30 p.m. // $50

THURSDAY, SEPT. 8

Carnivores, The Clap, Mood Rings, Red Sea

Wish Carnivores and Mood Rings a fond bon voyage on their upcoming tour and check out a couple new 7” releases (new Clap material squee!) from Double Phantom.

Star Bar, 437 Moreland Ave. // 9 p.m. // Free, 18+

Friday Night Live

FRIDAY, SEPT. 9

The funk-rock stylings of Athens’ own The Looters are the soundtrack to Urban Art Night at Friday Night Live.

Central Park, 1380 Atlantic Dr., Ste. 14250 // 7:30-10 p.m. // Free, all ages

KISSATLanta 8-year Anniversary

Join indie rockers Snowden, DJ Preston Craig and Kimber of Nonsense at Noni’s fame to celebrate eight years of KISSATLantastyle partying.

Highland Inn Ballroom Lounge, 644 N. Highland Ave. // 10 p.m. 3 a.m. // $10, 18+

SATURDAY, SEPT. 10

16th Annual Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival

Looking to mix it up with something a little different this weekend?

Check out Georgia’s biggest Hong Kong cultural event. Watch dragon boat races, take in the Asian talent presentation and enter a drawing for free AirTran tickets. You’re guaranteed to come away from this event with more interesting stories than most of your friends.

Lake Lanier Olympic Venue, 3105 Clark’s Bridge Rd., Gainesville, Ga. // 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. // Free, all ages

“Accidental” New Work by Born

This exhibition by Atlanta artist Born showcases pieces he created from found objects. Born has made a name for himself with his abstract interpretations of derelict spaces and items, transforming them into grittily beautiful works of art.

Beep Beep Gallery, 696 Charles Allen Dr. // 7 p.m. // Free, all ages

The Black Lips, Vivian Girls

The Black Lips are playing the metro area’s finest and most beloved trucker bar? I’m sure stranger things have happened, but not that many.

Southern Comfort Lounge, 1383 Cedar Grove Rd., Conley, Ga. // 8 p.m. // $20, 21+

SUNDAY, SEPT. 11

Sopo Art Bikes: Bicycle Tour Around Atlanta

As part of its second art bike show, Sopo is exhibiting bike frames painted by talented artists from Atlanta and around the country. Take a ride around town with the Sopo gang (there’s a short route and a long route to accomodate cyclists of all skill levels) to see the bikes being exhibited at local businesses.

Sopo, 465-C Flat Shoals Ave. // 11 a.m. (20-mile route), 1 p.m. (10mile route) // Free, all ages

MONDAY, SEPT. 12

Beginner’s Metal Yoga

Resist the urge to headbang, and bend your body into a pretzel instead. Email Neda@toughloveyoga.com for more information and to register.

Young Blood Gallery, 636 N. Highland Ave. // 8-9:15 p.m. // $10, 18+

Want to see an event in this space? Contact Brooke Marshall at signalentertainment@gmail.com with the event name, time, date, location and a brief description.

>>INTERVIEW CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 ing the worst parts of myself to an audience. What’s scary is writing jokes.

The process of figuring out what you’re gonna say. If anything, I’d like to go deeper and be more honest.

MR: For many comics, the act of settling down and having children completely changes the tone and content of their comedy. Was this something you were conscious of when you had kids of your own?

MIB: Anyone who is a fan of comedy probably observes what you observe. People’s comedy changes over time, and it’d be tough to stay in the same place forever. I don’t think it would be fun for a performer to stay doing the same thing they got known for doing. Sometimes it’s for better, sometimes it’s for worst, but it’s not something you have a choice in. You have to keep moving, keep going, reflect what’s going on in your life. That’s what you have to go on.

MR: I want to talk to you about one of your newest projects, which is your podcast “Mike and Tom Eat Snacks.” How did that get started?

MIB: I did a show called “Ed” with Tom Cavanaugh. We’ve been friends since then, and we wanted to work on something together, but it’s hard to get projects off the ground. So we said, “F--k it. Let’s do something we have control over.” “MATES” is an excuse to hang out and have fun, and that’s what it’s been. We eat snacks, we discuss snacks, and we review snacks. It’s fun.

MR: “MATES” has gotten a surprising amount of critical acclaim, particularly from [The Onion’s] AV Club. Did you expect that kind of reaction?

MIB: I guess I’ve been surprised. I felt that we’d find an audi>>ALBUM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 like punk rock yet feels a bit poppy.

Although inimitable, the overall impression of the album might remind the listener of Helmet or a milder version of Marilyn Manson.

Perhaps because rock music is known for maintaining secular undertones, the spiritual dimensions of Late Love may surprise some listeners. With three track titles that clearly reference theological concepts, it seems that the group is not afraid to explore — or at least subtly mention — various religious reali>>DRAGON*CON CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 convention, attendees were drunkenly shouting to each other in a sea of thousands, scoping out those whose apparent interests or physiques they found attractive. No-holds-barred partying took precedence over fandom at night, and that’s when those interested in the former made their way in.

Crowding into the Marriott’s elevators was a favorite pastime of festival-goers, since the ride up and down its 50 floors is very fast and the view is intense.

ence. I was more concerned internally as to whether or not it would be fun for us, and whether we would remain engaged in it. I was more worried about that than the reception. That’s always how I am. I want people to like something, but it’s so beyond my control that I don’t spend time worrying about it. I really am very surprised and happy that people know and like it. It’s one of the most fun things that I do.

MR: What’s the process behind selecting a snack to feature?

You recently did cold pizza, and I don’t know if I would consider that a snack.

MIB: The process… Sometimes someone will have an idea. We get a lot of things sent to us. We get suggestions. Sometimes we just walk over to the supermarket and pick something up. There’s not a whole lot of scientific rigor behind selecting a snack.

MR: What’s been your favorite episode so far?

MIB: I’m not sure. Cold Pizza was really fun.

MR: You’re also working on a book in which you travel across the U.S. How did that project get started?

MIB: I’m working on a book with Megan McCain, who is a Republican writer. I am not a Republican. I am a writer. I am also not a girl, I am not blonde, and I am not single.

She is all of these things. We are two very different people from two very different backgrounds. I thought it’d be a cool idea to have the two of us, who didn’t really know each other at all before the trip, to tour the country and talk to people about what’s so f--ked up about our country, and people all over seemed to agree on the same things.

MR: So it seems like the initial idea was your own.

MIB: Initially yeah. But once we started emailing about what the book could be, it became a more collaborative thing.

MR: And as if that wasn’t enough, you’re also something of — and I could find any better word to describe it — but a Twitter impresario. You’ve started a false feud with LeVar Burton; you’ve positioned yourself as Taco Bell’s next spokesperson. Do you have any upcoming Twitter campaigns you’re willing to divulge?

MIB: I’m trying to get the word “c--kodile” into the English language.

MR: What does that refer to? I wanna make sure I get this one right.

MIB: It refers specifically, to a particularly toothy b--wjob.

MR: We’ve covered a lot of your work in a pretty short span. You’re a comedian, an actor, a director, an author. What’s next for Michael Ian Black? Country-Western?

MIB: I’m looking to figure out the way to perfectly counterfeit a $20 bill. After that I won’t really need the rest of this stuff.

MR: And how has that worked for you thus far?

MIB: So far it’s not working great.

MR: One final question: What’s one piece of advice you’d like to give the students of Georgia State, who are definitely reading this interview?

I’m sure they’ve been waiting all month for it.

MIB: I would say, as you leave school and enter this difficult job market, the best thing you could probably do for yourself would be to practice these three simple words: “Welcome to Wal-mart.”

Michael Ian Black will be performing at the Ferst Center Sept. 8 at 8 p.m. His latest special, “Very Famous,” premiered on Comedy Central Aug. 6.

ties. Although lyrics like “the ground feels like quicksand” may not pertain to anything sacred or sacrilegious, a song title such as “Sin after Sin” implies that the story therein has to do with God — and separation from him.

And although “We Speak In Tongues” does not reference the book of Acts, the song, which does make mention of gaping holes and the threat of death, may be an allusion to hell. Finally, we have “To Whore With Foreign Gods.” With a soulful and stirring injunction as the opening line (“speak to me”), the song — which includes screaming — implies that the singer has begun a

dangerous and perhaps addictive relationship with an evil force.

Although many music lovers may be drawn to albums containing suggestive lyrics, those individuals who prefer to avoid questionable content may want to avoid tracks two, seven and nine. Other listeners may find the somewhat guttural singing (and periodic screaming) a bit off-putting. Yet in spite of the questionable content and gritty sounds to be found in Late Love, one would be hard-pressed to deny the quality and complexity of the group’s debut album.

— Jocelyn Crawley, Staff Writer

I squeezed into one such elevator with nearly enough people to exceed its weight capacity, and once we began to rise the shouting started.

Deafening chants of everything from “U-S-A!” to “Shrimp-fried-rice!” rang out in the tiny elevator. I soon found myself shouting my devotion to Asian rice dishes with the rest of them. Such is Dragon*Con, the place where you can say, be, and do whatever your heart desires.

Even though much of the night at Dragon*Con is spent simply standing around and people-watching, it’s hardly boring. The hotels are luxurious, the costumes are otherworldly,

and there’s enough booze and activities to keep even the most discerning festival-goer satisfied.

Even though Dragon*Con nightlife is no longer free to the public, the festival is still running strong. People of all ages come together harmoniously in the same space, fostering a positive atmosphere of acceptance, liberation and, of course, rowdy booziness. At Dragon*Con after dark, the questions of many are answered, the fantasies of many are made real, and the Labor Day weekend is made insane in the best possible way.

THE SIGNAL | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011

EDITOR Angel R. White

signalliving@gmail.com

CAMPUS LIFE www.gsusignal.com/campuslife

ASSOCIATE EDITOR OPEN

Five perks to being a Panther IMAN NAIM Staff Writer

THE START OF A NEW SCHOOL YEAR, HAS INCOMING STUDENTS WONDERING, ‘WHAT IS SO GREAT ABOUT BEING A PANTHER?’ RETURNING GEORGIA STATE STUDENTS WERE EAGER TO SHARE A LIST OF WHY THEY LOVE BEING A PANTHER.

Perk #1:

Perk #2:

Broad Street is full of restaurants that are all well within a college students’ budget, including the usual Taco Bell and Pizza Hut, as well as less well-known places such as Tin Drum: a pan-Asian food restaurant..

Located just a few blocks from the Aderhold Learning Center, this strip of eateries is a great place to stop for a quick bite, and many restaurants are happy to give discounts to Georgia State students!

Georgia States’ Writing Studio offers a range of services to Panthers.

“We offer scheduled appointments to help students with any writing issues,” said Owen Cantrell, an Associate Director of the studio.

Besides helping with that important paper, they offer help with graduate school applications and job and scholarship personal statements.

Tutor Mark Michaelson, is eager to promote the studio and services.

“We’re more concerned with the process of learning than the final product,” said Michaelson.

If students are unable to set up a time to meet in person, tutors are available on Write Chat: the studios’ online service.

“We want students to get the most out of their tutorial sessions,” said Cantrell.

Perk #3: Discounts! What college student cannot afford to save a little cash? Lucky for them, surrounding stores and restaurants are happy to provide any Georgia State student with a 10 percent discount. Discount tickets to attractions like AMC Theatres, Regal Cinemas, the Georgia Aquarium and Six Flags Over Georgia are provided at the information desk in the Student Center.

Perk #4:

Perk #5: After all that eating, the first place to visit is the Recreation Center. Students can have access to all the features the center has to offer, including cardio machines, weightlifting machines and three pools.

The center also hosts clinics for martial arts, fitness and several types of dance, among others.

“Students can come in for full body assessments and they can work with trainers and nutritionists to improve their health,” says Judi Moss, Public Relations Specialist for the Recreation Center. “Much of the building is run by students,” she continued. “Graduate students majoring in exercise science can apply to work here, which is a great opportunity for them.”

Also coming up on Oct. 13 is ‘Day in the Rec’: the annual festival hosted by the center.

“We have inflatables, minute-to-win-it games, food and tons of activities that are open to all students,” said Moss. This year’s celebration will be especially big, as it coincides with the Recreation Centers’ 10th birthday.

Touch the Earth, a department under the Recreational Services, is also popular with students because of their trips.

“The recreation trip program offers a variety of experiences designed for all skill levels, led by a team of experienced volunteer trip leaders,” explained the Outdoor Recreation Director, Carson Tortorige.

Over the year, Touch the Earth offers many trips that include activities like skydiving, kayaking and hiking. Extended trips can take students to places like the Everglades or western National Parks.

Georgia State understands how stressful college life can be. The Student Support Services office, located at 145 Sparks Hall, is there to help low-income, disabled or firstgeneration students get through their college education as smoothly as possible.

“The Support Center helped me a lot with adjusting to college life,” said senior Mikarie Taylor. “They boosted my confidence and helped me to improve academically.”

Delucious Patterson was a part of the Freshman Institute program with 25 other students when he first arrived at Georgia State.

“We were able to learn from each other,” Patterson said. “We’re like a family.”

Besides offering counseling, the Director of Student Support Services, Martha Fowler, organizes cultural enrichment speakers to address the Georgia State community. Past speakers have included a Navajo decoder and a prisoner in a Japanese internment camp during World War II. “It’s a great program,” continued Taylor, “I couldn’t have made it this far without them.”

17

TUESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2011 | ENTERTAINMENT | THE SIGNAL

Campus Events SEPTEMBER 6, 2011

Leadership GSU: The Power of Leadership

We are kicking off our leadership series with a discussion about the commitments we make as leaders. Often times we find ourselves saying yes to too many opportunities, only to back out later. This discussion will focus on the promises we make as leaders and the importance of following through.

Student Center - Lucerne Suite // 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

“Finding and Making the Most of Your Internship(s)” Workshop

This workshop will cover: When to start looking for an internship, Important dates/deadlines for national fellowship/internship programs, Resources for finding local opportunities, Tips on how to prepare your resume, Andrew Young School of Policy Studies - Room 749 // 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2011

Paper Trail: The Art of Taking Dynamic Lecture Notes

Although your professor mentions what be on the test, you don’t have to write every word down. Instead, find out how to distinguish critical from trivial information and how to do all this without cramping your hand. Effective note-taking enhances your learning and makes studying for exams easier!

Student Center – Lucerne Suite // 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

How to Find Scholarships

This workshop covers the basics of searching and applying for scholarships, how college funding works, adhering to timelines, and enhancing researching skills.

Sparks Hall Room 251 // 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

SEPTEMBER 8, 2011

Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk

Don’t hesitate - participate! Join team Georgia State for this annual event. Visit www.gsu.edu/recreation for registration and event details.

Turner Field – Blue Lot // 7:00 p.m.

Courtyard Series Concert: Timbre- Harp/Singer

Most widely known as the harpist collaborator with mewithoutyou and Anathallo, Timbre’s solo project is a unique musical experience. She combines the sounds of harp with a gentle soprano voice, often joined by her band on piano, cello, vibraphones, drums and even a choir to create a moving and ethereal sound.

Student Center- Courtyard Stage First Floor // 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

SEPTEMBER 9, 2011

Final Cut Pro: Absolute Beginner’s

Final Cut Pro is leading the industry for consumer-accessible postproduction software. This workshop introduces you to the program and a step-by-step process to get you started and completed with your digital video project.

Classroom South Room 403 // 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Yoga Classes

Employee Development & Wellness is sponsoring a series of Yoga classes for Georgia State University faculty, staff & students.

Try our 1-hour class of gentle yoga, emphasizing stress reduction and relaxation.

University Center Room 480 // 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

SEPTEMBER 10, 2011

Atlanta Creative Arts Symposium

GSU Night at the High Museum of Art. The $5 advance tickets will be on sale at the Student Center Info Desk beginning August 29, 2011.

High Museum of Art // 7:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.

Want to see your event in this space? Contact Angel White at signalliving@gmail.com with your event’s name, time, date, location and a brief description of the event. All events listed in the Campus Events calendar must either take place on campus or be produced by a Georgia State-affiliated organization.

The new Georgia State Idol, Genesis Moore, and Idol host, Kyle Stapleton, pose with this year’s judges.

SAMARIA SMITH | SIGNAL

2011 Georgia State Idol wins big SAMARIA SMITH Staff Writer Georgia States’ Idol competition kicked off with a sultry rendition of Lady Gaga’s “You and I” performed by Chelsey Cashwell. Cashwell wooed the crowd with her performance, setting the stage for what would be a showcase of amazing talent.

The competition that took place on Aug. 30 at the Rialto, was Georgia States’ 6th annual version of the hit reality TV show, American Idol. Auditions were held on Aug. 25 and 10 contestants were selected to compete. The show’s host was Kyle Stapleton, who actually resembled Ryan Seacrest (host of American Idol) with his refreshing comedic spin and chic fashion. When asked about the organization of the event, Stapleton said, “well, the wheels were already up on this thing. The OfRialto have been collaborating via the years now.”

On his role and how it felt to be a part of the team Stapleton added, “I just kind of came in and they were looking to get fresh. Things are changing at the university--they needed something new and I was honored to be asked to be a part of it--along with so many other brilliant people.”

There was a great spectator turn out to witness the 10 competitors battle it out for the idol gold, including Georgia State President Dr. Mark Becker and members of the audience held up colorful signs advertising the names of their idol picks just as they do on the hit TV show. When asked how they were enjoying the show, freshman Tianna Johnson and sophomore Tara Thorpe said, “[the show] is good.”

Along with a panel of three judges, members of the audience who had access to a text messaging service were

able to show their support for their favorite performer by text voting the number of their idol pick. While the judges

ultimately crown the Georgia State Idol.

The competitors did not make the choice easy for either the judges or the audience. Among the biggest crowd pleasers was idol contestant David Porter who delivered a panty-dropping version of John Legend’s “Ordinary People.” Zachary Ward also brought out both chuckles and cheers when he leapt off stage ringing out his version of Cher’s “Believe.” Nikki Holman wowed the crowd singing Beyonce’s “Best Thing I Never Had,” and a petite Candace Burgess surely surprised onlookers when she belted out a huge performance of Jennifer Hudson’s “I Love You I Do.” ists would sing a second song in a last attempt to win it all. When asked by Stapleton to describe what making deliberations was like in the green room, the judges described the decision as

were Genesis Moore, who won their hearts singing a powerful version of Mariah Carey’s “Hero,” contestant Andy Glen whose vocal and instrumental talent with his saxophone led him to formance obviously pleased both the ladies and the judges.

While each of the 10 competitors proved worthy of taking a spot in the contented with the judges picks. In fact, several members booed the judges and nal showdown, but of course, the show had to go on. So David Porter, Genesis Moore and Andy Glen took to the stage with one last performance to win over the votes from the audience that would make one of them the new Georgia

State Idol.

In the end, it was Moore and her super sexy delivery of Beyonce’s “1+1” that took the audience by storm and left her wearing the crown of the 6th annual Georgia State Idol. Gia Ellis, one of the three judges for the competition, said “I thought [the competition] was amazing.”

Ellis went on to say that there are a lot of talented students at Georgia State and that competitions like this are a great way to expose the talent. When asked if she was pleased with the winner, Ellis said, “I was very pleased with the winner and I thought she had a magwant to have it any other way.”

Despite not winning it all, Joy Green, one of the 10 competitors who serenaded the audience with beautiful rendition of Deborah Cox’s “Nobody’s Suppose to Be Here,” noted that while she usually does not participate in competitions, her experience in Georgia State Idol was pretty good.

Moore was presented a framed blue record from last year’s Georgia State Idol and racked in some pretty cool perks as well. For the win, Moore received an HP Netbook courtesy of Copy Corner, the opportunity to sing the National Anthem at the Georgia Dome for the Georgia State Family Weekend home football game on Sept.10 and two additional booked performances.

“This was the greatest experience ever and I’m so glad my best friend Jade made me try out because I wasn’t going to,” said Moore on her experience.

“There are so many talented people here, so many talented people...I’m in love.” Moore also revealed that she had been a competitor on the real TV hit American Idol and added, “I didn’t get to win on [American Idol] but winning my school’s Idol means so much more to me.”

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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011 | CAMPUS LIFE | THE SIGNAL

10 Things about the Freshman Class of 2015

Beloit College has released its annual “Mindset List” which strives to help faculty better understand the psyche of its newest freshman class – born in 1993. While the original list has 75 points, we picked out our top 10 favorite!

1.

Ferris Bueller and Sloane Peterson could be their parents.

2.

The only significant labor disputes in their lifetimes have been in major league sports.

3.

There have always been at least two women on the Supreme Court and women have always commanded U.S. Navy ships.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

American tax forms have always been available in Spanish.

Amazon has never been just a river in South America.

Life has always been like a box of chocolates.

Jimmy Carter has always been a smiling elderly man who shows up on TV to promote fair elections and disaster relief.

Dial-up is soooooooooo last century!

9.

Their older siblings have told them about the days when Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake and Christina Aguilera were Mouseketeers.

10.

When they were three, their parents may have battled other parents in toy stores to buy them a “Tickle-Me-Elmo” while they lasted.

Honestly, it just makes us feel old that Nick-at-Night is playing old reruns of “All That” and “Kenan & Kel!”

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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2011 | CAMPUS LIFE | THE SIGNAL

A look at campus traditions TIFFANIE SMITH Staff Writer Georgia State has many annual traditions that are on or around campus every year. These traditions help students get connected on campus through their involvement with student organizations.

One recent tradition that happens every year is Panther Welcome. This week is for new and returning students to come together and get involved in the Georgia State community.

“It really helps students get back in the swing of things,” said Sophomore Sarah Smith. “I like Welcome Week because they hand out free stuff and I am always down for free things.”

Georgia State enrolled more than 32,000 students this semester for the first time ever. With this many students on campus, Panther Welcome has many activities that students can do.

Some of these activities include a comedy show and sporting events. The theme this year is “I am Georgia State: True to Blue.” The week is running from Sunday, Aug. 21 to Saturday, Sept. 3.

The annual welcome back pool party that is a part of the student

activities during welcome week. It is hosted at the Student Recreation Center this past Thursday, Sept 25.

“I’ve been here for two years and the welcome back pool party is personally my favorite,” said sophomore Joshua Williams. “It really gets students together and I love the DJ and free food of course.”

Panther Prowl is one Friday out of every month and is open only to students at Georgia State. Students are allowed to bring up to one or two guest to the event.

“Panther Prowl is a monthly late night non-alcoholic event that involves a multitude of fun-filled activities that includes free food, interactive games, arts and crafts, and keepsake items,” said Panther Prowl Director La’Conya Cobb.

“Panther Prowl originated to provide an alternative to students to participate in on campus activities rather than Atlanta night life. Also, it provides students with a safe haven to enjoy activities and to interact with other GSU students.”

Each Panther Prowl has a different theme and is usually held in the Student Center. Past participants have enjoyed many of their events.

“I love Panther Prowl,” said junior Lauren Moore. “It’s so much

Assistant Dean of Students, Matthew Robison, waves at students during the annual golf cart parade.

fun and I think the tradition of having Panther Prowl one Friday out of every month should keep going.”

The event was held recently last Friday, August 26 with a battlegrounds theme. The activities included laser tag, Wii games, karaoke, fried Snickers and Oreos, class competitions of sack race and tug of war and a dance party from 12am-

2am.

Homecoming, a tradition at many universities across the nation, is a popular event within the list of different traditions on campus. One event that happens every year is the annual golf cart parade..

Unique to Georgia State, the golf cart parade brings awareness of campus organizations to the stu-

GSU MAGAZINE

dents of Georgia State. The carts travel throughout the downtown area dressed in streamers, balloons and anything representing pride for the university.

Every year the university continues to grow and change, but its traditions continue to hold strong.

Increased enrollment crowds campus event ANGEL R. WHITE Campus Life Editor

With more than 300 chartered organizations on campus, Georgia State’s annual student organization fair was moved to Hurt Park this year to accommodate the increased number of students and participants Tuesday, Aug. 30.

Even with the re-location efforts, participating organizations and attendees still experienced crowded walkways and cramped layouts.

Amanda Brimmage, a junior exercise science major, participated in the fair with Softer Touch. Softer Touch was just one of the numerous organizations signed up to participate. Others included Greek Organization, Intramural clubs and Georgia State student media groups.

The location of the tables were less than arms length from one another.

“We were all like really close together,” said Brimmage. “It was really compacted.”

Attendees were directed to walk in single file lines through the maze of tables set up along the park.

Many popular organizations were located in a central area creating a concentrated area of students.

“They could have utilized the space in the middle of the park more so that made it a lot more cramped,” said Kyndel King, a computer information systems major. “They could have spaced it out a little.”

Although the event layout and space didn’t meet the needs of crowd, students believed there was a fair representation of organizations available.

“Georgia State really gave [me] an opportunity to learn about a multitude of organizations,” said King.

“That was definitely a plus.”

Senior political science major, Bridget Harris, was pleased with the increase in organizations that participated this year.

“I was very impressed with this year’s turnout. It was great seeing different organizations from all over

campus and the community come together for the fair.”

Along with Hurt Park, the university also shut down half of Gilmer Street to allow organizations more prevalent in the community to promote and recruit.

“I was glad that all the organizations came out and if you were looking for one you could have definitely found one,” Brimmage said.

Students were able to walk away with information on various campus services, goodie bags from Seventeen Magazine and popsicles courtesy of Spotlight Programs Board.

“I was pleased with all the information and extras I received,” said Harris. “I just hope next year they put a little more effort into creating a more efficient setup for the fair.”

For more information on student organizations, visit the Student Activities Office located in suite 330 of the Student Center.

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SPOTLIGHT PROGRAMS BOARD www.gsu.edu/spotlight

HAPPENING ON CAMPUS!

Panther Prowl: Gamer Over Friday, September 16, 8 p.m., Student Center Ballroom Inspired by video games past and present, this event will transform the Student Center into a big arcade. From old school classics like Duck Hunt and Crash Bandicoot to new

Supported by Student Activity Fees

you. Enjoy pizza and drinks while viewing screenings for the video game-inspired movie Mortal Kombat: Annihilation and gamer-themed keepsake photos.

SAVE THE DATE! Homecoming 2011 October 17-22

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CAMPUS EVENTS www.gsu.edu/studentevents

College Night at the High Museum Saturday, September 10 7 p.m.-Midnight Campus Events is providing free shuttles from the Student Center and the Commons to and from the High Museum.

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Homecoming 2011 Royal Court Applications Available Now! Applications are now available in 380 Student Center.

$5 A Studendvance t Ticke GSU st ts uden

For more information, call Spotlight at 404/413-1610.

ts may disco b tickets unted advan uy ce for Coll ege Nig at the H ht ig Studen h at the t Cen Inform ation D ter esk.

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FALL LOCKER RENTALS Fall semester rental of lockers in the Student Center, University Center, Urban Life Building and General Classroom Building is now available in 360 Student Center on a first-come, firstserved basis. The rental period will end Dec. 9.

Shuttles begin at 6:15 p.m.

The last shuttle leaves the museum at 12:15 a.m.

Purchase tickets at the Student Center Information Desk.

Fees for first-time rentals are $20 per semester plus $10 for a lock.

After a lock has been purchased, fees are $20 per semester.

For more information, visit www.gsu.edu/studentcenter or call 404/413-1860.

General Admission for Students with ID: $7 General Admission for Non-Students: $18 For more information, call 404/413-1857.

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LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT www2.gsu.edu/leadership

The Power of a Promise Tuesday, September 6, 11 a.m.-Noon Student Center, Lucerne Suite Often we find ourselves saying yes to too many opportunities, only to back out later. This session will focus on the promises we make as leaders and the importance of following through.

Leadership in a Changing World Cinefest Film Theatre cinefest movie times

http://www.gsu.edu/cinefest Georgia State University uLearn

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Wednesday, September 7, Noon-1 p.m.

Student Center, Lucerne Suite What does it mean to be a leader? Can anyone be a leader?

Discover a new way of thinking about leadership and the role you can play in making a positive change in the world.

SAVE THE DATE FOR LEADERSHIP CONCLAVE! Saturday, October 15, Student Center

The Robber, September 6-11 Tuesday-Friday: 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 7 p.m., 9 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday: 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 7 p.m.

All shows free for GSU students, faculty & staff with ID. Guests $3 before 5 p.m. and $5 at 5 p.m. and after.

NEW AMC DISCOUNT TICKETS Discount gold tickets for AMC Theatres are now available at the Student Center Information Desk for $7.50 each. Gold tickets have no restrictions on viewing newly released movies.

AMC silver tickets are also still available for $6 each.

Silver tickets have restrictions on special engagements.

Gold and silver tickets do not expire.