The Miami Hurricane - Oct. 23, 2008

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THE T HE H E MIAMI HURRICA HURRICANE

NEWS

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pagetwo what’s online

information you need

newsbriefs

Check out the following stories exclusively on the all-new TheMiamiHurricane.com.

Students to debate key issues

Transportation for early voting

On Monday, a student debate on this year’s elections will be held by the College Republicans, Young Democrats, Get Out the Vote and the Division of Student Affairs at 7 p.m. in the University Center Lower Lounge.

Two panels of four people will debate the economy, national security, Iraq, healthcare and energy.

Harout Samra, the state chairman of the College Republicans and state chairman of Students for McCain, believes students debating the issues will offer advantages compared to other media outlets.

“Sometimes college students seeing their peers talk about the issues is a better way to portray why this is important to the average college student,” he said.

Get Out the Vote, in conjunction with Student Government and the university administration, will be providing shuttles to the Coral Gables Public Library, the closest site for early voting.

The shuttles will run Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. From Oct. 28 to Oct. 31, shuttles will run from noon to 6 p.m. On Nov. 1, the shuttles will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The shuttles will pick students up at Stanford Circle.

University of Miami Students for Obama are providing Obama vans to Coral Gables Public Library. The pick-up locations are at Hecht and Stanford residential colleges and Stanford Circle, and the vans will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Obama vans run from Oct. 20 to Nov. 1. Buses will come every half hour.

The College Republicans are not offering a similar service but encourage students to use the Get Out the Vote buses, according to Maria Pelfrey, UM’s chairwoman of College Republicans.

Early voting began Monday and will be continuing until Nov. 1.

Early voting requires proper voter registration in Miami-Dade County and picture identification with a signature. The address on the identification does not need to match the registered address. The identification is used only to verify photo and identification.

Check voter registration online Voter registration information can be checked for confirmation at www. miamidade.gov and www.voteforchange.com.

Any University of Miami student can contact Gilbert Arias, assistant vice president for Student Affairs, at 305-284-4922 for troubles related to voter registration.

– Ed S. Fishman Check up on the latest information on the crocodile dismemberment story from Chelsea Kate Isaacs.

ON THE TRAIL A new Ipos/McClatchy poll out Tuesday found that Sen. Barack Obama is entering the homestretch with a 50 percent to 42 percent lead over John McCain, and appears to be gaining strength on key issues despite much criticism from McCain.

Republican Sen. John McCain will return today to Florida to keep spreading his message of lower taxes. McCain will hold public rallies on both Florida coasts, in Ormond Beach and Sarasota.

See a full schedule of

Homecoming 2008 events, compiled by Erika Capek.

Find out about the return

of the Halloween Ibis Ride shuttle, and how you can get to the Grove on Oct. 31st from Ed S. Fishman.

ON THE COVER Photos by Steve Root, Illustration by Shayna Blumenthal, Hurricane Staff.

RECYCLE THIS PAPER: LIGHT YOUR BARBECUE ON SATURDAY! NEWSROOM: 305-284-2016 BUSINESS OFFICE: 305-284-4401 FAX: 305-284-4404 For advertising rates call 305-284-4401 or fax 305-284-4404.

Founded 1929 An Associated Collegiate Press Hall of Fame Newspaper

©2008 University of Miami

EDITOR IN CHIEF Matthew Bunch

NEWS EDITOR Chelsea Kate Isaacs

OPINION EDITOR Joshua W. Newman

WEBMASTER Brian Schlansky

AD EDITOR Will Wooten

BUSINESS MANAGER Nick Maslow

ASST. NEWS EDITOR Erika Capek Ed S.Fishman

VISUALS EDITOR Shayna Blumenthal PHOTO EDITOR Chelsea Matiash ASST. PHOTO EDITOR Steve Root DESIGNERS Felipe Lobon Lauren Whiddon

MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Ryan Ondriezek Lauren Whiddon

PUBLICIST Shay Klevay

FINANCIAL ADVISER Robert DuBord FACULTY ADVISER Bob Radziewicz

SPORTS EDITOR Pravin Patel ASST. SPORTS EDITOR Christina De Nicola

ADMINISTRATOR ASSISTANT Maria Jamed

EDGE EDITOR Dan Buyanovsky

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THE MIAMI HURRICANE

NEWS

COPY CHIEF Nate Harris EDITOR AT LARGE Greg Linch

October 23 - 26, 2008

PRODUCTION MNGR Jessica Jurick ACCOUNT REPS Nico Ciletti Ally Day Caroline Mauriello Brian Schuman

The Miami Hurricane is published semi-weekly during the regular academic year and is edited and produced by undergraduate students at the University of Miami. The publication does not necessarily represent the views and opinions of advertisers or the university’s trustees, faculty or administration. Unsigned editorials represent the opinion of The Hurricane’s Editorial Board.

Commentaries, letters and cartoons represent only the views of their respective authors. The newsroom and business office of The Hurricane are located in the Norman A. Whitten University Center, Room 221.

LETTER POLICY The Miami Hurricane encourages all readers to voice their opinions on issues related to the university or in response to any report published in The Hurricane. Letters to the editor may be submitted typed or handwritten (please make your handwriting legible) to the Whitten University Center, Room 221, or mailed to P.O. Box 248132, Coral Gables, FL, 33124-6922.

Letters, with a suggested length of 300 words, must be signed and include a copy of your student ID card, phone number and year in school.

ADVERTISING POLICY The Miami Hurricane’s business office is located at 1306 Stanford Drive, Norman A. Whitten University Center, Room 221B, Coral Gables, FL 33124-6922. The Miami Hurricane is published on Mondays and Thursdays during the university’s fall and spring academic terms. Newspapers are distributed free of charge on the Coral Gables campus, the School of Medicine and at several off-campus locations.

DEADLINES All ads must be received, cash with copy, in The Miami Hurricane business office, Whitten University Center, Room 221B, by noon Tuesday for Thursday’s issue and by noon Friday for the Monday issue.

SUBSCRIPTIONS The Miami Hurricane is available for subscription at the rate of $50 per year.

AFFILIATIONS The Miami Hurricane is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press, Columbia Scholastic Press Assoc. and Florida College Press Assoc.

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Presidential campaign reps debate healthcare

PHOTO COURTESY UM MEDIA

DIALOGUE: Rep. Michael C. Burgess of Texas speaks during a panel discussion on the future of healthcare. Burgess represented Sen. McCain in the debate while Nancy-Ann DeParle, a former director of the Health Care Financing Administration, represented Sen. Obama. Three professors and one student moderated.

Surrogates speak on vital issue at Storer Auditorium

BY MARK DANIELS CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

Two representatives of the presidential campaigns debated healthcare policy Tuesday night in the Storer Auditorium at the University of Miami’s School of Business Administration.

The forum, entitled “Vision for a Better America,” was moderated by a panel of three professors and one student representative, with each member interrogating the surrogates on the implementation and implications of their candidate’s healthcare proposals.

Rep. Michael C. Burgess, a congressman from Texas and a senior adviser to Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain, outlined the senator’s proposal to create a national market in which insurance companies would compete across state lines, minimizing cost and resulting in greater affordability for the consumer.

“If a Dolphin player gets traded to another team he retains his healthcare benefits despite his move, but if a fan wants to follow the player to a new state, he isn’t covered,” Burgess said. “That’s because we give breaks to big companies. McCain’s plan would extend that [ability to shop around] to the little guy.”

Nancy-Ann DeParle, a former director of the Health Care Financing Administration and a senior adviser to Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama, stressed the right to equal coverage and advocated the extension of the federal employee’s health care plan to 47 million uninsured Americans.

“If you want to keep your existing coverage, you can. Senator Obama is proposing one national plan, similar to Medicare, which Americans can fall back on,” DeParle said.

After the panel discussion, President Donna E. Shalala selected members of the audience to question the surrogates.

“It seems to me that one of the pillars of McCain’s campaign is reducing costs to the insurers and assuming the savings will be passed down to the consumer, rather than the company just retaining the in-

creased profit,” commented one student.

Burgess explained how incentives built into McCain’s policy reward good behavior on the part of the insurance company, assuring that companies are invested in their client’s well being. Another audience member questioned whether those insured by a Medicare advantage plan would retain their benefits, claiming that Obama said he would eliminate the program.

“He never said he would eliminate the program. A Medicare advantage plan is regulated by HMOs and those happy with their coverage can retain their plan,” DeParle said. “Obama would eliminate the 12 percent differential, an unnecessary expense that does not improve quality of coverage.”

Todd Landman, a 26-year-old medical student, said he believes that both candidates’ commitment to modernizing information technology could reduce health costs in the near future.

Despite their differences, Burgess and DeParle agreed that whichever candidate wins the election, he would make healthcare a top priority.

Mark Daniels may be contacted at mdaniels@themiamihurricane.com.

Pollster speaks on young voters at UM John Zogby, one of the nation’s top pollsters, spoke at the Cosford Cinema on Thursday about the upcoming presidential election and his new book, The Way We’ll Be. “I’m not sure how many young people read position papers or newspapers day in and day out,” Zogby said.

He believes young voters are especially influenced by image, issues of trust and character. “There is much more involvement [from young voters] this year. The Internet and social networking have made a substantial difference.”

Zogby thinks that voters aged 18 to 29 will have a high voter turn-out this year. If young voters can reach 19 percent of the vote, which Zogby believes they have a good chance of doing, they will equal the number of votes cast by the senior citizens, the group perceived to have the highest turnout.

Zogby’s appearance was the latest part of the “A Dialogue for Democracy” series. The next event in the series is a concert by Bruce Hornsby, followed by a presentation by well-known political analysts James Carville and Mary Matalin on Oct. 28.

– Mark Daniels

October 23 - 26, 2008

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college addictions: a series

HEALTHY CANE

Hectic college life causes sleep aid abuse

JESSSICA HODDER // Hurricane Staff

ENTER SANDMAN: Sleeping pills can become addictive, whether they’re prescription or not, when used inappropriately.

Dependency can develop in students if drug is overused

BY MICHAEL SPEARS CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

Balancing homework, studying and extracurricular activities have caused many students to develop erratic sleeping patterns and to resort to sleeping aids for relief.

“I’ll take [over-the-counter sleep aid Unisom] an hour or half an hour before I’m going to go to sleep, so by the time I get into bed I’m feeling drowsy and able to sleep,” sophomore Kuba Bartkowiak said. “It’s kind of like a timesaver for me.”

Many students complain that juggling multiple responsiblities, such as campus organizations, jobs and social activities, can lead to sleeping disorders.

“Insomnia is pretty common among the people I know,” Bartkowiak said. “If you can’t get to sleep normally and you’ve got class, you have to do something.”

A study by the Journal of American College Health found that 33 percent of students surveyed took longer than 30 minutes 4

NEWS

to fall asleep, 43 percent woke up more than once during the night and 33 percent of these students felt they hadn’t received enough sleep the next day.

Sleeping medications, such as Unisom and Nighttime Sleep Aid, can be bought over-the-counter at local stores and pharmacies. They contain Doxylamine, a short-term sedative.

Similarly, medications such as Tylenol PM and Benadryl, both containing the antihistamine Diphenhydramine, are commonly used to treat allergies and the common cold. However, the drowsy side effects produced by Diphenhydramine make Tylenol PM and Benadryl desirable sleep aids.

The use of prescription drugs is on the rise among college students. According to a Web survey of 3,639 college students conducted by Sean McCabe, a research associate professor at the University of Michigan, 59.9 percent of students reported medically using prescription drugs, including sleep aids, with a prescription, and 15.8 percent used medications both with and without a prescription.

Commonly used prescription sleep aids include Ambien and Lunesta. Both medications work with GABA, a chemical naturally found in the brain, by weakening activity in surrounding brain cells,

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

which leads to sleep.

Nancy Nur, a pharmacist at CVS Pharmacy in Coral Gables, said regular use of sleeping medication could lead to lethargy and drowsiness in the morning and may prompt some students to use amphetamines, such as Adderall, to function the next day. Other side effects may include next-day dizziness, headaches and trouble with coordination.

“People may need to start taking more meds to deal with the effects of the [sleeping medication],” Nur said. “It’s counterproductive and putting your body through a lot.”

Marc D. Gellman, a research associate professor for health psychology, said that in most cases, these sleep aids are not truly addictive since the body doesn’t develop a physical dependence on them.

However, a person can become mentally reliant on these sleeping medications. “[A psychological addiction] develops where you learn that you can become reliant on a medication to help you sleep,” Gellman said, adding that there will be rebound effects due to lack of sleep, like taking caffeine pills such as Vivarin, which can lead to unhealthy sleeping patterns.

He also warns there is still a risk of becoming dependent on sleep aids the same way some people rely on caffeine to stay awake or start the day.

Nur said students should develop a healthy sleeping pattern instead of relying on medications for sleep, which can also result in other side effects, including constipation and dry mouth.

“Develop a routine before bed, like dimming the lights and reading,” Nur said. “The brain is going to be triggered to release serotonin, which leads to sleep.”

To learn more about sleep aid addiction or receive counseling for an addiction, please visit the Counseling Center located at the Center for Student Services Building 21-R or call 305-284-5511.

Michael Spears may be contacted at mspears@themiamihurricane.com.

October 23 - 26, 2008

BY ASHLEYANN GOSSELIN HEALTHY CANE COLUMNIST

Q: A:

I lost my virginity this past week and I am extremely sore and itchy down there. What is going on, did I catch an STD?

Q: A:

I heard that you can take several birth control pills when a condom breaks and it will work just like Plan B. Is this true?

Yay girl! Good for you – I hope losing the V card was everything you expected. As for the soreness down there, it’s completely normal and the itching is a part of the healing process. Depending on how experienced your partner was and how ready for the “act” you were, it is not uncommon to get some tearing – especially for the first time. Even if you had the most experienced partner in the world and you were ready as you would ever be, it’s just likely that you ripped a little bit of the tender flesh in that sensitive region. It is unlikely that you got an STD from your partner if you were using a condom properly but if the itching and burning does not go away within a week, you should stop by the health clinic and get a pelvic examination just in case. Now, as for the next time you get down and dirty, you want to make sure that your are fully repaired. Lubricated condoms are a must; you can get them for free at the Health Center, but if you want to be extra careful I strongly suggest using Trojans from CVS. Remember, you get what you pay for... and when you’re protecting yourself from STDs and sperm you don’t want to be cheap. Start off slow and make sure you have had plenty of warm-up, then enjoy yourself! Even after the 20th time, you’re likely to be sore just from the action itself and after a while you may even associate that ache with a job well done.

ECPs, or emergency contraceptives, use the same hormones found in most brands of regular birth control pills – just in higher doses. Taking two doses of two of your regular birth control pills 12 hours apart will act the same way as ECPs if they are of specific brands. Talk to your health care provider about which pills can be used as ECPs. Make sure to talk to your doctor as soon as possible to prevent possible pregnancy. Although some regular birth control pills can be used as ECPs, I strongly suggest going to your local pharmacy and asking for Plan B – and yes CVS has the pill and it will run you about $50.

ECPs should be taken as soon as possible after the condom breaks (or he forgets to pull out or whatever) but it can be effective up to five days after the slip-up. It is important to remember that emergency contraceptives as well as birth control pills do not protect against HIV and other STDs. Ashleyann Gosselin themiamihurricane.com.

may

be

contacted

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Misconceptions about candidates on campus Some believe peers choose candidate only on trivialities, not the issues

BY MARK DANIELS CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

Rather than Hollywood celebrities, some University of Miami students say many of their peers seem be preoccupied with the lives of this year’s presidential candidates, influenced by superficial rumors and lacking a true knowledge base of substantial political issues.

“I like to talk about the economy but a lot of my friends care more about [Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack] Obama and Bill Ayers or [Republican presidential candidate Sen. John] McCain being old than taxes,” said Cameron Harati, a sophomore who discusses politics with friends but is not confident that their enthusiasm for the candidates is substantive.

Sophomore Robert Murstein said that some students are enthusiastic about the candidates, but their support stems from image and personality rather than the issues and qualifications.

“Kids are talking more about the election this year because of how cool Obama is, or the fact that McCain was a prisoner of war,” Murstein said. “People are getting emails and texts from the campaigns or chain letters [that include questionable claims].”

Some students are generally confused about the candidates’ platforms.

When asked if they believe McCain is for stem-cell research, many students believe he is not. However, McCain has been a strong advocate of stem-cell research throughout the election.

Michael Weiss, a 26-year-old doctoral student and member of the UM College Democrats, believes many students are misinformed.

“Students should be discussing policies and the economy, not distractions,” he said.

“But even when people talk about their proposals, they do not have their facts straight.”

Other students believe the candidates’ overall character is equal to the policies they claim to support.

“I’m looking for someone who walks the walk,” said law student Harout Samra, the state chairman of the Florida Federation of College Republicans.

Samra believes issues of personal judgment are relevant to this election and views McCain as the more trustworthy candidate because of his military service and years of experience as a statesman.

Many students agree that relationships and issues of judgment are fair game; when asked about political conversations they have with friends, most students say their discussions focus more on the candidates’ traits and characteristics than their policies.

Sophomore Brad Weisberg, a member of the UM College Democrats, agrees that the question of character is important.

“The person elected is going to be in charge of running this country and we should understand the type of people that influence them,” he said.

Weisberg said he believes that lobbyists usually influence campaign policy more than personal relationships and that both candidates are backed by special interests.

The explosiveness of rumors is so significant this election that Obama has set up a Web site that specifically attempts to refute contentious statements about his campaign and personal life. The site, fightthesmears. com, addresses issues such as Obama’s connection to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and the rumor about Michelle Obama using derogatory terms such as “whitey.”

Could the lack of factual political information impair them from making a wellinformed decision on election day?

John Twichell, a professor of comparative politics, believes students are able to sift through the rumors and evaluate the issues to make an informed choice, regardless of

COURTESY UM YOUNG DEMOCRATS

HELPING HANDS: Senior Payal Patal stands in front of the “Yes We Van,” a shuttle organized by the UM chapter of the Young and College Democrats. numerous students at the university voicing their concerns about the student body being politically misinformed.

“Students are well informed about the issues that matter – foreign policy and

broader economic and domestic policies,” Twichell said.

Mark Daniels may be contacted at mdaniels@themiamihurricane.com.

Racing for the Cure

COURTESY THE BAHAMIAN STUDENTS ORGANIZATION

INVOLVEMENT: The Bahamian Students Organization participated in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure this past Saturday at Bayfront Park.

15,000 people participated in the event to raise money for a cure for breast cancer.

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October 23 - 26, 2008

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Coconut Grove Beats Halloween at the Grove Oct. 31 is more than just a holiday in Coconut Grove, it’s a cultural occasion. Grove-going regulars are sure to find their favorite hotspots packed with Miamians of all shapes and sizes in costume. From Grand Avenue to Peacock Park and up and down Main Highway, clusters of costumed companions will stretch as far as the eye can see. UM students are bound to bump into an ex-roommate or a classmate or two at the biggest impromptu Halloween party in South Florida.

Scarefest serves up shrieks Scarefest, the spectacularly spooky house of horror in the Grove, is open now until Nov. 2. Known as Miami’s ultimate haunted house, it features a cast of live characters, over 20,000 square feet of space, 15 rooms, two stories and a different theme for every room. Scarefest is located on the third and fourth floors of Cocowalk, located at 3015 Grand Ave. More information can be found at www. scaremiami.com.

Making seasonal donations Looking to make a difference this fall? Miami’s Salvation Army is asking for Halloween themed donations to help with the construction of their fun house. Officials are asking for various items including decorations, costumes for adult men, party food, packaged candy and prizes. Volunteers to help with the event are also welcome. To make a donation or for more information on volunteering call 305-573-4200 ext. 205.

blogs.TheMiamiHurricane.com

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Homecoming 2008 is underway, theme is ‘very different’ Festivities have been tradition since 1931

BY ERIKA CAPEK ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

It’s that time of year again.

With the semester more than halfway over, students can take a break from school’s hectic schedule and celebrate the University of Miami’s Homecoming 2008, “Once Upon a ‘U.’” The homecoming traditions began in 1931 and each year during this time, UM showcases its rich history and spirit.

“There have been a lot of changes this year,” said senior Jabeen Syed, a co-chair of the Homecoming Executive Committee.

“The theme is very different from previous themes and it’s something students can have fun with but still keep with tradition.”

Previous themes include “The Road Home” in 2002, “Taking Shelter from the Storm” in 2003,

“Evolution” in 2004 and “Great Things to Come” in 2006.

Since opening ceremonies on Oct. 12, several events have taken place including the alma mater singing competition, a blood drive and the crowning of Homecoming King and Queen – junior Tom Dempsey and junior Jaife Calil.

But there’s still much more to come. Current students, faculty, community members and alumni from all over the country can look forward to the annual homecoming parade, which kicks off at 7 p.m. on Friday.

“One of the big events for the alumni is the parade,” said Kate Lake, the assistant director of Alumni Programs. “[Former UM defensive lineman and No. 1 draft pick of the 1991 draft] Russell Maryland, UM President Donna E. Shalala, Sebastian the Ibis, Band of the Hour and UM cheerleaders will be walking along side the floats. We expect it to be a lot of fun.”

Immediately following the parade, the pep rally will begin at 8 p.m. along with the boat burning

ceremony and fireworks at 9 p.m., which will take place along the waterfront of Lake Osceola in the center of campus.

During the burning of the boat, the tradition states that if the mast breaks before the boat sinks, UM will win the homecoming football game.

Then the high-energy night will come to a close with a concert on the University Green at 9:30 p.m. featuring performances by N*E*R*D and opening act Kidz in the Hall.

“I’m really looking forward to the concert this year,” senior Eling Tsai said. “The previous two have been a lot of fun, so I expect this one to be just as good.”

On Saturday, the Hurricane football team will take on Wake Forest at noon in Dolphin Stadium.

“It’s something everyone should be a part of,” Syed said.

Erika Capek may be contacted at ecapek@themiamihurricane.com.

ZACH WOODWARD // Hurricane Staff

CROWN ‘EM: Junior Jaife Calil was crowned Homecoming Queen. The coronation was one of the week’s many events.

October 23 - 26, 2008

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opinion editorial

by andrew hamner

Homecoming underpublicized, lacking in tradition

Keeping youth at the forefront

What is homecoming? Does anyone really know what that means? If you went to a high school that really appreciated the authenticity and tradition that homecoming instills, you might have a clue. If not, all you know are the incredible times that UM homecoming has to offer.

Despite this potential for great fun and frivolity, there are some problems with this year’s celebration.

We assume, for the game, that you tailgate several hours prior to kickoff. This week, and for last year’s homecoming as well, our game is at noon.

Whether it’s the school or the ACC or the television networks that decide on game time, we are not happy campers. There once was a time (like two years ago) that Miami’s homecoming was a primetime event.

No longer.

The evening before our very winnable game against Wake Forest (positive thinking breeds positive results), hip-hop sensation N*E*R*D will grace us with their presence and infuse in all of us a mood of joy and pride.

Realistically, many will be drinking before, during and after the show, and most likely may not make it to the relatively early game.

On another note, where is the feeling of homecoming right now? Besides for a few volunteers in the breezeway begging to suck you dry of platelets and red blood cells, where are the banners? Where is the buzz? At other schools, homecoming practically shuts down business, as alumni return to their alma mater for the big game. The Miami football fan being a practical one, they come back for the big games, like Florida State. A blessing in one sense, a curse in another.

If you’re a Greek, you are well aware of the full extent of activities that go on this week – because they involve you. For a school where Greek life is not that prevalent, “O-Cheer” and the float parade are all centered around Greek life. But otherwise, this week may seem like just any other week in the fall in Miami. Excitement for football is a renewable source of energy at UM, but excitement for homecoming just doesn’t seem to replenish as easily.

Editorials represent the majority view of The Miami Hurricane editorial board.

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OPINION

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

America’s youth aren’t just some expendable resource.

No sir, let me tell you that the youth of this country are nothing less than its future protectors and it is their interests for which the country ought to sacrifice now. Since most of you reading this are members of that group perhaps such a stirring sentiment will arouse in you some desire to study, to learn and to use your talents for the betterment of mankind.

Others will get the joke.

If America’s youth are its future then now is the time to write its obituary. Clearly the vast group of people stuck in substandard schools all across the country aren’t going to use their underdeveloped skills to save the USA. No one expects “those people” to save the country, though. Elites, private college students, will do that.

Well, fellow members of the meritocratic royalty, are you up to the challenge? Those of you still sleeping off this weekend’s binge can feel free to take some extra time contemplating the above question. For the rest of you, perhaps it’s time to take a look around.

If you can tear yourselves away from certain distractions perhaps you’ll notice that America’s youth are especially involved in political campaigns both locally and nationally this year.

How hopeful, say the political elites! This is just wonderful, say our elders! Finally the patriotic values we instilled in our progeny are coming to fruition. To blame others would be ignorant, however, in the face of a degree of smugness that can be detected on the countenances on everyone who considers himself or herself “involved.”

After Nov. 4, when the exhilaration of being a participant fades, all who now exult in their ability to affect events would do well to ask themselves

one simple question. How exactly will you maintain this current level of excitement when we, the youth, come to understand that we can’t just write some words on a sheet and change events when our candidates are actually in office?

In 1960 John Kennedy was the candidate of the young. He fired their imaginations, but as time went on they found that they did not have Washington’s ear and cities burned when they tried to gain it. Involvement is wonderful. But change comes slowly in this republic. Investing yourself wholly in your perceptions of a candidate as an agent of quick change will only bring disillusionment.

Andrew Hamner is a sophomore majoring in journalism and political science. He can be contacted at ahamner@ themiamihurricane.com.

by morton hoi jensen

The unfair fear of socialism A professor recently told me, in response to a question I asked him, that 95 percent of Americans probably don’t know who Eugene Debs is.

Very briefly then: Eugene Debs was an American politician and a member of the Socialist Party who won six percent of the vote in the 1912 Presidential election. He bravely fought against intervention in the carnage of WWI and was instrumental in the 1894 Pullman Strike. During the First Red Scare of 1917, he was thrown in prison for his political sentiments.

I’m thinking of the great Eugene Debs these days because, as the election draws near, Sen. John McCain and Gov. Sarah Palin appear to be encouraging a Third Red Scare. Their campaign seems increasingly devoted to reigniting the irrational American fear of anything that can, justifiably or not, October 23 - 26, 2008

be called socialism. In response to Sen. Obama’s tax plan, the feeble-minded Sarah Palin boldly claimed that “now is no time to experiment with socialism.”

Sen. McCain, likewise, accused Barack Obama of having a furtively socialist agenda.

Alone, the fact that the Republicans are pushing further right at a time when the economy needs the exact opposite is enough to illuminate their lack of qualification. They’re mavericks alright – loose cannons with poor judgment, gun-slingers whose politics are markedly irresponsible, particularly concerning the economy.

The bailout plan in itself is one of the most “socialist” policies in American history, so for the McCain campaign to accuse Barack Obama of being a socialist – and, as if it weren’t already enough, a terrorist – shows that the old man and the hockey mom are profoundly out of touch with reality.

I would encourage all students at

UM to be more familiar with socialist thought; contrary to what politicians want you to believe, it isn’t evil. The legacy of the Left is very complex and fascinating, and Americans – at least on a national level – don’t seem to understand that.

“The socialist movement,” Christopher Hitchens writes, “enabled universal suffrage, the imposition of limits upon exploitation, and the independence of colonial and subject populations. Where it succeeded, one can be proud of it.” Be proud, comrades, of the intellectual and moral achievements of individuals such as Jean Jaures, Karl Marx and Albert Camus. Be proud, America, of Eugene Debs, who fought bravely and admirably for what he believed in, and went to jail because of it.

Morten Hoi Jensen is a junior majoring in English and creative writing.

He may be contacted at mhoijensen@ themiamihurricane.com.

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“Be proud, America, of Eugene Debs, who fought...for what he believed in.”

– Morton Hoi Jensen, Contributing Columnist

“student science” by andrew biltman

speak

The viral change - a new type of battery According to a recent article by Discovery Technology News, scientists at MIT have discovered a new way to develop energy-storing devices.

The technique – pouring a concoction of innocuous, genetically modified M13 viruses and cobalt metal on silicon film – could turn any surface, from a cell wall to a computer motherboard, into a battery. Angela Belcher and her colleagues discovered the stamping technique about three years ago when searching for an improved method of powering microscopic devices. Their experiments have yielded a bendable, minuscule battery that can be easily mass produced.

However, the scientists invented their first virus-powered battery in 2006. Since then, Belcher and her team have been refining the battery, creating energy-storing devices that can be woven into fabrics or emptied into containers.

Even more remarkably, they have found that by stamping a base material like silicon to a sur-

face, the negatively charged M13 viruses and positively charged cobalt ions can assemble batteries themselves. The configuration in which they assemble depends on relative charges and the shape of the stamp.

The use of a base material, silicon, is itself an innovation. Silicon’s pliability allows its compounds to assume a variety of shapes and sizes. Curved stamps, circular stamps and spherical stamps are all viable options. The element’s abundance, affordability and accessibility facilitate dreams of mass producing the viral battery. The principles of supply and demand make silicon relatively cheap to mine and process.

“Gram for gram, the virus-based batteries are roughly twice as powerful as traditional chemical batteries,” Belcher has said, “although the battery cells are so small - about four microns across - that exact measurements are difficult. It takes about an hour for an M13 battery to form.” Although individual battery cells cannot hold much charge, a battery of battery cells could handle significant quantities of energy.

Such technology could have numerous applications in medicine, including but not limited to uses in nanotechnology and cardiology. Yet each battery is rechargeable and more ecologically friendly than a traditional chemical battery. Furthermore, each battery could be equipped with really small LEDs. The diodes would light up in the presence of cancer cells, providing a significant service to oncologists everywhere.

Even more significant, the M13-powered batteries could replace the chemical battery entirely, becoming a part of the automobile and computer manufacturing process. With refinement, the inner surfaces of the car or computer could become the battery. Separate energy storage devices would no longer be necessary, because the batteries assemble themselves.

UP!

How do you feel right now?

CHRISTOPHER HARTZ Senior “Like my mind is wandering, but my emotions are stagnant.”

Andrew Biltman is a freshman majoring in marine science and biology. He may be contacted at abiltman@themiamihurricane.com

letter to the editor

Independent parties crucial for modern democracy Most of you have already decided who you’re voting for on Nov. 4. In the process of talking about compromise, the two parties have polarized the American people to a near split. It’s either a vote for change or a vote for reform. Is it just me, or are these words synonymous? Both parties are playing to the same ideals while being equally vague in answering some of the real questions.

What we need are new ideas brought to the democratic discussion and voters need to know that there’s an alternative to just trying to tip the scale of the same political system.

I’m going to tell you what every American citizen ought to know: If any minor party gets five percent of the popular vote, that party becomes major and is officially integrated into our democratic system. In other words, five percent is enough to bring

a third podium to the debate table. And who’s to say that three heads aren’t better than two? A three-party system introduces competition, and gives the minority opinion a chance to answer the questions that the other two have avoided.

Third parties have always functioned as platforms that introduce new ideas to the political current. Issues like the environment were considered fundamental to the Green Party long before Al Gore realized it was “Inconvenient,” and now the issue is considered prevalent enough to be recognized as a major political subject. So what new benefits would there be to a three-party system? One benefit would be obligating the media to do what it’s actually supposed to do: inform. We’ve been beaten over the head with all the redblue political banter this year, and if there’s anything we’ve learned in this election, it’s that the media has its own motives. The media may

not be telling us what to think, (although they often do,) but they are telling us what to think about. The only way to alter this cycle of “agenda-setting” is for the public to act independently of the media and create a demand for new information.

Democracy is healthier if the currency of ideas flows in a free market. It’s probably too late to have convinced you this year. But I want people to understand how plausible five percent really is. Our generation has the potential to sway this amount of electoral votes, and we can change the face of politics to reflect the nature of 21st century concerns.

Do your own research. Get informed. Vote on the basis of an idea rather than political celebrity, and let’s demand a real democratic discussion.

–Luke Beekman Junior

LETYOURVOICE BEHEARD October 23 - 26, 2008

STEPHANIE ELIAS Freshman “Pessimistic, confused and frustrated.”

MARC RAIKEN Senior “Like a fat kid in a candy store.”

compiled by Josh Newman and Chelsea Kate isaacs

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

OPINION

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BY LAURA EDWINS CONTRIBUTING EDGE WRITER

Churchill’s Pub is a genuine alternative for Miami nightlife

Churchill’s Pub in Downtown Miami is known for its indisputable reputation as the birthplace of the punk rock scene in Miami, but once a week the acoustic folk duo Raffa and Rainer invite regulars to abandon their earplugs and rock a little softer.

Located in the heart of Little Haiti, about 12 miles north of UM, Churchill’s is a Miami landmark. The bar is modeled after an English pub, complete with a rickety double-decker bus in the parking lot and an authentic British bouncer.

On Wednesday nights the mosh pit gives way to scattered groups of wobbly tables and mismatched chairs as long time friends and musical collaborators Raffa and Rainer host a night of what Raffa calls “sweet rock.” The evening comprises an open mic portion followed by featured artists that vary each week.

“We want to keep quality music coming back so we have the open mic format,” Raffa said. “If someone is amazing we ask them back as a feature.”

The only regularly occurring act each week is Raffa and Rainer, whose unique sound has garnered them a following of Wednesday night regulars.

Raffajo Harris and Rainer Davies were asked by Churchill’s management to host a weekly night of eclectic folk music a little over a year ago. The duo has been writing and playing together for the past four years in the classic LennonMcCartney style of best friends turned performers.

“I just write these little songs,” Raffa said with a wave of her hand. “Rainer really knows what he’s doing. He comes in and puts layers in and makes them magical.” Most of their lyrics have the underlying theme of lost love, and are set to effortlessly hopeful melodies and Raffa’s distinctively delicate voice.

Since the birth of the Wednesday night ritual, the two have worked to build a movement of quality acoustic rock performers in Miami.

“There hasn’t been a steady scene in Miami, but it’s getting better,” Raffa said. “We want to be like a real city with a real scene.” The gentle tunes and unique atmosphere of the bar have attracted a variety of listeners, from clusters of trendy college kids, to preppy 20-something couples, to an older audience in the know and the occasional historic hippie.

“It’s got a nice homey, relaxed feel,” Rainer said with a glance around the room and an approving nod. “It’s not oppressively loud. It’s a place where people can come and talk without being bombarded.”

Stephanie Sandu, a sophomore English and neuroscience major at UM, seems to agree.

“I enjoy coming to Churchill’s because it provides an alternative scene that I often don’t find at UM’s campus,” she said. “I like how the values that are normally praised in typical Miami society, like money and beauty, aren’t worshiped here. Instead talent and originality are what people see. There is an indescribable desire for nonconformity.”

A UM senior, Johweyeh Lowenthal, has only been to Churchill’s twice but has already seemed to pick up the vibe of the pub.

“It’s like something you would find in a back alley,” he said. “It’s not flashy and commercial at all. It’s kind of grimy, but there’s something appealing about it.”

The Wednesday night crowd, the musicians, and the bar itself seem to have created a truly compelling experience that appeals to a wide array of listeners.

“I think Churchill’s offers an important space where people can be themselves,” Lowenthal said. “It’s more about the talent on the stage and the people in the audience than the color of the paint on the wall.”

Laura Edwins may be contacted at ledwins@themiamihurricane.com.

October 23 - 26, 2008

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Talking hot grandmas with Clark Duke, star of ‘Sex Drive’

BY NICK MASLOW OF THE STAFF

Amish sex, bodily functions mixed with sex, running naked through fields after sex. Given the various scenes in actor Clark Duke’s new film, it’s no wonder the movie is titled Sex Drive. The film’s tale about a road trip for two high school buddies and their best chick friend is bringing on the giggles for moviegoers across the nation. The Miami Hurricane caught up with Clark Duke just minutes after the Miami screening of Sex Drive on Oct. 8. From Duke’s ways with the ladies to his next movie with Eddie Murphy, nothing was off limits.

THE MIAMI HURRICANE: You just got hit on by a couple really hot grandmas.

Clark Duke: I did. I told them to wait outside.

TMH: So are we holding you up?

CD: No, they’re waiting. They’ve got nothing to do.

TMH: If you had to describe this movie to someone who hasn’t seen the trailer or anything, what would you say?

CD: I would say it’s just a really fun teen sex comedy that I think appeals to a broader audience than what the poster might imply. I would encourage anyone who likes

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comedies to go watch it.

TMH: It’s reminiscent of some teen comidies, but something was different about it.

What would you say influenced this movie?

CD: This one is influenced a lot by the great ‘80s teen comedies. The John Hughes movies, the John Cusack movies from the ‘80s more than any current stuff.

TMH: After seeing the audience’s reaction, what do you guys think you have on your hands here?

CD: I’m just so glad that people like the movie. Our only goal throughout the whole thing was to make a funny movie. Based on the audience, I think we did. I can’t hope for a whole lot more than that.

TMH: You told me that you guys shot this in South Florida. How did you make South Florida look so hillbilly? I mean, have you been to South Beach?

CD: I have. I loved it down here. We [shot here] for three months. I had a blast, but we had to CGI out a lot of palm trees.

That was the only big hold-up.

TMH: Why did you shoot down here, out of all the places to shoot?

CD: I think just the variety of locations.

I think Florida gives a really big tax break to film productions is the real answer.

TMH: You have a movie coming out with Eddie Murphy next year.

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

October 23 - 26, 2008

AMISH COUNTRY: Clark Duke shares a moment with the Amish Seth Green in Sex Drive. Duke compared the film to some of the 1980s’ best comedies.

CD: Yeah, it’s called A Thousand Words.

I play Eddie’s assistant. Eddie has a curse put on him so he only has a thousand words to say before he dies. He can’t talk for most of the film, so I have to interpret for him and figure out what he wants me to do.

Nick Maslow may be contacted at nmaslow@ themiamihurricane.com.

To watch the interview in its entirety, log on to www.TheMiamiHurricane.com

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CD REVIEW: ‘MURS FOR PRESIDENT’

CD REVIEW: ‘DIG OUT YOUR SOUL’

Down-to-earth Murs still raw

Oasis returns to rocking form

BY SAM ROTENBERG

BY TOBIAS WATERS

CONTRIBUTING EDGE WRITER

CONTRIBUTING EDGE WRITER

Murs for President, a new album from hip-hop artist Murs, is only for those who enjoy hearing intelligent rap music about about real life scenarios.

In his music, Murs relies heavily on his own lyrics to keep the song flowing rather than a musically complicated production.

The majority of the songs on his album follow the same pattern of long verses with a single measure break instead of a chorus.

Because of this, his songs become more like rap poetry rather than dancing music.

It is the music that accompanies the lyrics instead of the latter.

Typically, Murs raps about real girl problems he has had throughout life and the lessons that have come out of those experiences. It isn’t the usual sex and money lyrics that make him easy to listen to, but his down-to-earth lines about relationships and the ways he learned to treat women. Some other experiences that show influence in his songs are smoking weed, paying bills and losing cable, and this use of middle class lifestyle-inspired ideas makes his music easy to connect to.

If, like me, your disappointment in the previous Oasis album, Don’t Believe the Truth, was palpable, you may also approach this album with a sense of trepidation. Well end your tremulous steps and walk towards this record boldly, dear reader. This album is most definitely a return to form for the Mancunian masters.

The headlining songs – “The Shock of the Lightning” and “I’m Outta Time” – are tracks that are quite different from one another, and yet are typical of earlier Oasis opuses. “I’m Outta Time” is downbeat without being depressing and inspiring without being insipid, a catchy song almost on par with the replayability of “Wonderwall.”

“Lightning’s” own style is more upbeat, and is a fantastic pre-gaming anthem.

The other songs follow in much the same fashion, so if you have enjoyed Oasis’ music in the past, you’ll doubtlessly be thrilled by this album and consider it money well spent. If you are opposed to my personal opinion that Don’t Believe The Truth was a low point for the brilliant British band, you too may enjoy it, as it has some stylistic sim-

3 out of 4 stars

The name Murs is an acronym for Making Underground Raw Shit, and when you buy Murs for President, intelligent real scenario underground rap music is what you will get.

Sam Rotenberg may be contacted at srotenberg@themiamihurricane.com.

3.5 out of 4 stars

ilarities but drops the unnecessary acoustic adoration.

This is a superb album, a return to form and one which I may recommend without regret. Compared to the mire of mediocrity that was their previous effort, Oasis have indeed dug out their soul.

Tobias Waters may be contacted at twaters@themiamihurricane.com.

MOVIE REVIEW: ‘W.’

Bush biopic uses a scalpel, not a hatchet Controversial director, historian Stone tackles outgoing president

BY MACKENZIE GREEN CONTRIBUTING EDGE WRITER

W. is the story of the prodigal son that had no idea what he wanted to do with his life and just happened into politics. President-obsessed director Oliver Stone (JFK, Nixon) follows the at times charming and frequently dimwitted George W. Bush, played

by Josh Brolin, from the hallowed halls of Yale to beleaguered commander in chief. W. is not quite the hatchet job some may have expected (or hoped for). It is instead a measured and thoughtful meditation on a leader who, this terrific movie believes, inadvertently made the world as roiling as his soul.

This biopic is entertaining, empathetic and peppered with the “Bushisms” that we’ve come to love from our 43rd president.

Throughout the movie we see “Junior” work to get the approval and attention of his fa-

ther, Bush Sr., and daddy issues are a main theme of this movie. Even the most cynical liberals may at times find themselves feeling sorry for the hapless W. The film is also armed with great lines from screenwriter Stanley Weiser, such as when straight arrow George Sr. (James Cromwell) admonishes his screw-up son: “Who do you think you are? A Kennedy?

You’re a Bush!” Stone surrounds Brolin with a stunning cast of supporting players, such as the particularly good Elizabeth Banks as George’s librarian wife, Laura. Also featured are Jeffery Wright as Colin Powell, Ellen Burstyn as Barbara Bush and Richard Dreyfuss as Dick Cheney.

However, the movie does have its occasional weak spots. With so many famous people playing other famous people with varying degrees of success, the movie at times feels like an SNL skit without the jokes.

At times the tone shifts to broad satire, and Thandie Newton seems to be impersonating Condoleezza Rice rather than illuminating her character.

3.5 out of 4 stars

MacKenzie Green may be contacted at mgreen@themiamihurricane.com.

October 23 - 26, 2008

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“We know we have to go out there and play our game. Our offense can do that.”

“The one thing about us is that if teams key in on one player, then other players will step their game up.”

SPORTS

— DEDRICK EPPS tight end

— TRICIA TALIAFERRO head coach, women’s soccer

O C T. 2 3 TO O C T. 2 6 , 2 0 0 8

FOOTBALL

Hurricanes hope homecoming continues win streak against Wake Forest

STEVE ROOT // File Photo

LOOKING DOWNFIELD: Freshman Robert Marve looks to pass in a game earlier this season.

Wake winless vs.

Canes since 1944

BY LELAN LEDOUX SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

After coming getting their first ACC win this season, the Miami Hurricanes will look to ride their

tide of momentum to their homecoming game against Wake Forest.

The Canes (4-3, 1-2) will be in search of their third straight win against the Demon Deacons (4-2, 2-1).

“It’s a tremendous challenge for us because it’s a veteran team,” head coach Randy Shannon said.

“They’ve got some phenomenal players on defense. They’re a very veteran defense, an older team like Central Florida. It’s another ACC game which is very vital.”

The Canes struggled in the first half last week against Duke.

The Hurricanes trailed Duke 17-7 with 1:33 remaining in the first half, but quarterback Jacory Harris

came in and led Miami to a touchdown, cutting the lead to 17-14 right before halftime.

Harris and the Hurricanes went to work in the second half, outscoring Wake Forest 35 to 14.

Harris finished 18-for-28 for 185 yards, with four passing touchdowns and one rushing.

The win snapped a six-game losing streak in conference play.

“I was just having fun running Coach [Patrick] Nix’s offense,” Harris said after the win. “It’s a great offense to be in. It gives you a lot of opportunities to make something happen. I knew when my time was called I would come out and do it.”

Wake Forest is coming off a 26-0 loss at Maryland. Still, the Demon Deacons are 22nd nationally in scoring defense, allowing 16.8 points per game, and quarterback Riley Skinner leads the ACC in passing, averaging 214.5 yards per game.

Miami leads the series against Wake Forest, 5-3. The last time the Hurricanes played the Demon Deacons, back in 2005, the Canes downed Wake Forest 47-17. Wake Forest’s last win against the Canes was back in 1944.

“They’re a good team,” tight end Dedrick Epps said. “We know we have to go out there and play our game. Our offense can do that.”

True freshmen have definitely made an impact for the Canes, scoring seven combined touch-

downs. The next team with such a productive freshman class is USC, with three freshman touchdowns.

“Five freshmen, in one game, scored touchdowns. That’s unheard of at the University of Miami,” Shannon said. “That’s us doing a good job as the coaching staff, getting these guys prepared for the long haul. When we spread the ball around on offense we’re probably going to win the game.”

In the last two games Miami’s defense hasn’t give up, and they will look to carry that over into Saturday. The secondary, though, will be tested with Skinner throwing the ball. Skinner is a veteran and knows how to exploit defenses.

Against Wake Forest, the Hurricane offense must also bring the same energy they brought in the second half against Duke.

Running back Graig Cooper and wide receivers Thearon Collier and Travis Benjamin have the ability turn something small into enormous gain. The Canes will need this against the Demon Deacons.

And when the Hurricanes need a clutch play, look for receiver Aldarius Johnson to be the key.

As usual, Shannon will look to keep his team composed and focus on their homecoming game against Wake Forest.

“We have to stay focused like the last two weeks,” Shannon said.

“This team is staying focused.”

Lelan LeDoux may be contacted at lledoux@themiamihurricane.com.

ACC Standings ATLANTIC

Conf, W-L

Overall W-L

COASTAL

Conf, W-L

Overall, W-L

Florida State

2-1

5-1

Georgia Tech

3-1

6-1

Boston College

2-1

5-1

Virginia Tech

2-1

5-2

Maryland

2-1

5-2

Virginia

2-1

4-3

Wake Forest

2-1

4-2

North Carolina

1-2

5-2

Clemson

1-3

3-4

Miami (FL)

1-2

4-3

North Carolina State

0-3

2-5

Duke

1-2

3-3

October 23 - 26, 2008

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VOLLEYBALL

FOOTBALL

Miami records 12th sweep

Aldarius Johnson puts on for his team

Win over NC State improves record to 19-2 on season

BY JUSTIN ANTWEIL SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

How is this team not ranked?

This year’s University of Miami volleyball team is off to its best start since joining the ACC in 2004. The team is 19-2 overall and tied for first in the conference with Virginia Tech and Clemson.

Miami recorded its 12th sweep on the season last Friday night against NC State (9-15, 3-6).

With the win, the Canes improved to 9-0 all-time against the Wolfpack.

On Saturday UM defeated UNC (11-9, 5-4), 3-1.

For the seventh time this season Miami overcame adversity by coming back and winning the match after dropping the first set.

The win improves Miami to 9-0 at the Knights Sports Complex.

Saturday featured a packed gym of 581 screaming fans, despite the fact that the Hurricane football game overlapped with the volleyball game.

As a team, the Hurricanes are first in the league in service aces, second in the league in kills and third in the league in digs and hitting percentage.

What head coach Nicole Lantagne Welch is most proud of is the depth of this squad.

“The one thing about us is that if teams key in on one player,

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then other players will step their game up,” Lantagne Welch said.

“We have a lot of balance in our lineup. The outside [hitters] set the tone and the middle [blockers] take over from there.”

For the second time this year, freshman phenom Lane Carico was named ACC Player of the Week.

Carico was dominant this past weekend, registering 30 kills, 28 digs and four assists. Carico leads the Hurricanes in kills per set and is second in digs.

“I was not so concerned about my performance,” Carico said. “I was just so happy my team won and everyone was able to play well.”

This team deserves respect, and they will once again make their case when they hit the road after a five-match home stand.

Miami heads to Virginia this weekend to take on UVA Friday night at 7 p.m., and then travels to Blacksburg overnight to battle Virginia Tech on Saturday at 6 p.m.

Miami has won five of the past six meetings against the Hokies. Saturday night’s match will be crucial with first place in the ACC potentially on the line.

“We take it one match at a time,” Lantagne Welch said. “Going on the road is always tougher, but we will be ready and be patient with our game, and we are excited for the road trip.”

Justin Antweil may be contacted at jantweil@themiamihurricane. com.

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

Wide receiver focuses on scoring and having fun

BY LELAN LEDOUX SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

His adrenaline gets going.

Young Jeezy’s “Put On” is pulsating through his blood stream, causing him to bounce up and down on the sideline.

It’s third and goal and the Hurricanes need a touchdown.

He is motivated.

No. 4 walks onto the field calm and smooth. He lines up, and then he goes – with ease.

Seconds later he is tapping his toes at the end zone sideline, after scoring his first collegiate touchdown.

This is Aldarius Johnson.

Johnson just “put on for his city” and, more importantly, for his team.

“That is my song,” Johnson said. “I just got in the zone. I was telling my teammates I was going to score right here. The Lord blessed me, and I scored on that play. I couldn’t stop celebrating on the sideline.”

And that is how Johnson is.

A young man who is always energetic and forever looking for something fun.

“I just have fun, on and off the field,” Johnson said. “On the field I have fun running around and catching balls. I just want to see everyone happy and the coaches happy, as well. I love to see the coaches have confidence in us to make plays for them.”

Even when Johnson was a little kid he was always having fun and loving the game of football.

At the age of 5 Johnson was already into peewee football.

When he was younger, friends and family told him to just stick with it. But it was when he was 9 that he fell in love with football.

This love carried him to back-to-back state titles at Miami Northwestern Senior High and an athletic scholarship to a school with five national championships.

Johnson plans to make a living out of football, but he does have a back-up plan if football does not work out.

“Everyone wants to make it to the NFL but you’ve always got

October 23 - 26, 2008

STEVE ROOT // File Photo

READY TO STRIKE: Aldarius Johnson prepares to block UCF’s Johnell Neal earlier this season. to have a back-up plan” Johnson said. “I want to be a sports [analyst] or something that has to do with sports. That’s my love.”

Off the field, Johnson is the same way he is on the field. He is always looking to have fun. He spends the majority of his time watching a lot of movies and spending time with friends.

“He is a good, quiet guy,” head coach Randy Shannon said.

“He is happy-go-lucky, fun loving.

He is a guy who does his work - do what has to be done. Aldarius is good to be around.”

Since becoming a Hurricane, Johnson has been compared to former Cane Andre Johnson, someone who Aldarius admires.

Andre calls Aldarius often to offer encouragement and share his wisdom. He has taught Aldarius how to use his strength against little defensive backs and to break tackles after the catch.

However, the key influence comes from the people that are always around him.

“Jacory Harris inspires me,” joked Johnson of the freshman quarterback and high school teammate. “No. My mom. She inspires me everyday. [Also], I have a son.

So I always tell myself that I’m not doing it for me. I’m doing it for my son and my family. That keeps me motivated.”

This past weekend, Johnson had a career high in yards and receptions, hauling in eight catches for 84 yards and one touchdown.

With time, Johnson will become an even better receiver. He already has great hands and is very efficient running his routes.

He will look to improve his speed in the spring by running track.

“My best is yet to come,” he said.

Johnson has the desire and focus to be Miami’s next elite receiver and, better yet, a fun-loving guy.

Lelan LeDoux may be contacted at lledoux@themiamihurricane.com.

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SOCCER

Eight-game losing streak snapped with win against Clemson Double-overtime victory is first win since Sept. 16

BY CHRISTINA DE NICOLA ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

So long to the winless streak.

The University of Miami women’s soccer team defeated the host Clemson Tigers 1-0 in double overtime last Thursday night to snap an eight-game winless streak that dated back to Sept. 16.

Freshman forward Julianne Rickers scored the lone goal in the 106th minute, as the Hurricanes (86-2, 1-4-1) earned their first ACC victory.

“It felt good,” Rickers said.

“Our team was focused the whole time and outshot and outplayed them. The game really turned everything around with our intensity and focus.”

The game-winning score marked the second collegiate goal for the Leesburg, Va., native. It came on a pass from sophomore midfielder Lauren Singer. The shot sailed left past the diving keeper from 15 yards out.

Singer led the team with seven shots, as she and junior midfielder Jessica Wyble each recorded four on goal.

On the night, the Canes outshot the Tigers 22-19 and forced sophomore goalie Paula Pritzen to make 13 saves.

Freshman goalkeeper Vikki Alonzo had to make only three saves to earn her eighth shutout of the season and extend her school record. Her last shutout occurred on Sept. 21 against San Diego in a 0-0 double-overtime road match.

“Overall, every player that came on had some great chances that we created to get the win,” head coach Tricia Taliaferro said.

“We played really well and we really earned it today. We were focused

and disciplined.”

Sophomore Brittney Steinbruch, the team leader in goals with eight, didn’t play for the fifth straight game due to an injury.

She last saw action when the Hurricanes played ACC rival Virginia Tech to a 1-1 double-overtime tie at home.

Times have been tough for the Canes since beating Eastern Michigan in a close 1-0 match on Sept. 12. Four days later, Brigham Young handed the Hurricanes, who were riding a seven-game winning streak, their first loss of the season in a 1-0 non-conference affair.

Miami hosts the ninth-ranked Duke Blue Devils at 7 p.m. Thursday and the 16th-ranked Wake Forest Demon Deacons at 1 p.m.

Sunday in its final home matches.

Both games will be played at Cobb Stadium.

There are also two away games left in the regular season before the ACC tournament.

“We’re still banged up, but

we’ve had all week,” Taliaferro said. “With the experiences we’ve had, it’s made us better. It shows a lot of character and it got us over the edge to play with more grit and

October 23 - 26, 2008

will.”

Christina De Nicola may be contacted at cdenicola@ themiamihurricane.com.

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FOOTBALL COMMENTARY

Sending a message on player confidence On Sunday, it was reported that Randy Shannon would stick with Robert Marve as his number one quarterback.

The collective response: “Why?” This is a good

BY DAN STEIN SENIOR SPORTS question and a fair WRITER one.

Marve started off against Duke just fine and led his team to an early touchdown. However, late in the first half he threw a dumb interception, the type that was all too common around these parts when Kirby Freeman was the quarterback.

Shannon inserted Jacory Harris into the game.

Harris led a touchdown drive on his second possession and gave the Canes the momentum going into halftime.

After opening up the second half with a dumb interception, Harris then opened the floodgates, crushing the Blue Devils in a matter of about ten minutes.

What’s more, he looked like Ken Dorsey in doing so. So why is it that Shannon would stick with Marve?

I can think of two reasons. I like one better than the other.

The first is that Marve played well until one mistake. After that, Harris took over for the game, but that game is over.

I see Shannon’s side of the argument, but I was under the impression that this program is about winning.

From where I am sitting, Harris won the game, not Marve.

The second, and better reason, is

the dreaded quarterback controversy.

In 1994, a very talented Miami team fractured down the middle due to a quarterback controversy involving Ryan Collins and Frank Costa. The team divided into two camps and the season became one of underachievement, punctuated by a very public beating in a bowl game.

It was every coach’s worst nightmare, and the type of thing that can lead a program down a very bad path.

Shannon does not want that to happen to this group of kids, which has shown so much promise.

Marve is his guy. For better or worse, he gets the first shot every game.

When he is good, he keeps the ball.

When he makes bad mistakes (like throwing into a group of three defenders) he gets to sit. This is the type of message that keeps a team together.

Quarterback is the most important position to have stability at, especially with a young team.

It is easy to say that a receiver will be pulled from the rotation for dropping balls, because there are about ten of them who are interchangeable (e.g. Sam Shields, Leonard Hankerson).

However, a quarterback has to be the leader. And leaders cannot be interchangeable.

I like Shannon’s move. It sends the right message. Performance matters, but Shannon’s faith is deep in his players. It will take more than one bad performance to get the rug pulled out.

It is the message that will keep this group from splintering.

Dan Stein may be contacted at dstein@ themiamihurricane.com.

Game-Time Matchup MIAMI vs. Wake Forest QUARTERBACKS:

Wake Forest’s Riley Skinner is coming off a rough week which saw him complete only 14 of his 30 passes in a 26-0 loss to Maryland. On the other hand, Robert Marve and Jacory Harris both played well, especially Harris; he won ACC Offensive Rookie of the Week for his effort in a 49-31 win. Skinner has been consistently good for years now, while Harris and Marve have switched between great and mediocre this season.

EDGE: WAKE FOREST

RUNNING BACKS:

Wake’s leading rusher is Josh Adams; he comes in averaging 3.1 yards per carry.

Wake’s running game, in total, is averaging a mere 2.5 yards per carry. Miami’s running backs are all at or near 4 yards per carry, and Javarris James will be worked in more this week as a complement to Graig Cooper, who is averaging 5.3 yards per carry.

EDGE: MIAMI

WIDE RECEIVERS:

D.J. Boldin, Anquan’s little brother, is Wake’s go-to guy with 38 catches. He is averaging 10.1 yards per catch. Last week, Miami’s receivers went nuts and managed to make the big plays AND the routine ones. However, it was against Duke. This comes down to, once again, a go-to guy against strength in numbers.

Miami’s receivers are hitting their stride while Wake’s offense is struggling to do anything

EDGE: MIAMI

OFFENSIVE LINE:

Wake is averaging only 2.5 yards per carry and they have struggled to score points. Miami’s line has been solid and has the run game averaging 4.1 yards per carry. The quarterbacks have felt pressure when they hold the ball for too long but not much aside from that.

EDGE: MIAMI

DEFENSIVE LINE:

Miami’s defensive line has been solid against the run but has struggled to generate pressure. The same holds true for Wake. Neither team can claim an advantage.

EDGE: EVEN

LINEBACKERS:

Wake’s Aaron Curry has been a stud. He leads Wake in tackles and tackles for a loss while also picking up an interception. Miami’s trio of Sean Spence, Daryl Sharpton and Glenn Cook has been great. Sharpton is coming off two big games in a row, and Spence and Cook are usually around the ball.

EDGE: MIAMI

SECONDARY:

Miami’s secondary should have been exposed again last week, but Duke’s players could not hold onto the ball. That will not be true this week. Wake’s best player is cornerback Alphonso Smith. Smith is from Pahokee and will have a chip on his shoulder against one of the in-state programs that spurned him.

EDGE: WAKE FOREST

Read more from Dan on his blog, “Stein on the Sidenlines.”

Only at blogs. themiamihurricane.com

SPECIAL TEAMS:

Matt Bosher and Travis Benjamin have been great for Miami. Wake has the best kicker in the nation is Sam Swank, but he missed the past two weeks and the difference has been palpable. If he plays, Wake gets the edge. Smith makes Wake’s return game dangerous, but without their kicker they are not as formidable.

EDGE: MIAMI

BY DAN STEIN

October 23 - 26, 2008

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A real friend doesn’t make you sacrifice your dignity

, I used to be best friends with a girl who was a terrible best friend. She would always blow me off to spend time with her boyfriend of the week.

The only times I would see her was when she would randomly show up at my house with whoever she was sucking face with that week, and even then, they’d do nothing but make fun of me. Sometimes she’d cut me out of her life for months at a time and then decide from one second to the next that she had forgiven me for whatever it was I had supposedly done. I decided to end the friendship, but after two years of not speaking, I saw her again

and realized how much I missed her.

Should I try to rekindle the friendship?

Does it matter how much you like someone if they’re terrible at relationships? ~To Rekindle or Not? Dear Rekindle, It’s my understanding that if someone doesn’t care enough to be a real friend while you’re supposedly best friends, then that person isn’t really true. Maybe I’m wrong, but years of neglect followed by years of silence do not constitute a meaningful friendship. Acquaintance? Maybe. Best

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friend? No. In the realization that friends are usually not forever, it’s comforting to know that life is about more than just the fleeting memories you shared at any given moment with any given person.

While it’s sad to experience the disintegration of a friendship, it’s even sadder to kid yourself into thinking that such abuse is a fair price for maintaining a friendship just for the sake of it.

I advise you to cut your losses and call it even. Trying to rekindle this relationship in the expectation that maybe things will be different a second time around is just crazy. While it’s possible

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that she learned a lesson or two on how to keep a friend, who’s to say that she won’t be okay doing that to you again?

I’ve been down this road of friendships gone cold and trust me, a lot more is at stake the second time around. “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me,” is a saying for a reason, right? It’s better to honor the good memories you had with the person by forgiving her for the bad, but leaving it all in the past.

Trust me, there are good friends out there, but a real friend does not require you to give up a piece of your dignity or swallow your pride in order to accom-

modate her and her years of inconsideration. A good friendship should build upon the good that you wish to be and the good that is present in your life.

Best of luck V! Have a question for V? Hit up DearV@themiamihurricane.com.

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