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Reflections Magazine helps students express themselves Service Learning goes beyond the classroom Page 2
Behind the Apron: The employees of the North Campus cafeteria
Hip-Hop brought to life through event Page 10
MySpace v. Facebook Who will win the battle? Page 8
THE FALCON TIMES THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF MIAMI DADE COLLEGE NORTH CAMPUS SINCE 1961 WWW.MDC.EDU/NORTH/FALCONTIMES THEFALCONTIMES@HOTMAIL.COM
FEBRUARY 18, 2009
VOLUME 46, ISSUE 10
SELLING BACK BOOKS FOR EMPTY POCKETS Laura C. Morel Editor in Chief
Students who sell their textbooks back to the Miami Dade North bookstore receive no more than 50 percent of the original price, according to bookstore director Omar Betts. Because of this, more students are leaning toward selling and purchasing books through other methods. “If I sell a book back, [the bookstore] rips me off,” said Mayra Arias, a nutrition major. Arias was going to sell her textbook back, but decided she could profit more by selling it to a classmate. There are many factors involved when buying back textbooks, Betts said. Books are categorized as wholesale or retail items. Wholesale items are textbooks that will not be used the following semester but have market value nationally and will be bought back for a much lower price. “These include titles for which there is insufficient demand nationally to warrant purchasing them, books in poor condition, books that are or are going out of print,” said Betts. “When a new edition is released, the old edition loses its market value.” Retail items are textbook editions that will be used the following semester, guaranteeing students at least 50 percent of the money they paid for the book originally. If a professor has notified the bookstore that he/she will be adopting the same textbook for the following semester, then the book can be sold back for more money. “Itʼs not easy for you to understand until youʼre in the process itself,” said Betts, who has worked at the bookstore for more than 15 years. “We want to better communicate to customers how the process works.” Claire Harroch, a secondary
Insurance options available at low costs Roy Frenkiel Staff Writer
Alejo Stark/Falcon Staff BUY BACK GUARANTEE: A North Campus student sells back his textbooks to the Dade North Bookstore.
education major, is unhappy with the process. “They donʼt give you the same amount that you pay for,” she said. “You end up losing money.” Betts said that students receive no more than 50 percent of the money they originally paid for
because the remaining percentage goes to licensing fees and a part that the school is entitled to. “The bookstore doesnʼt make that much of a margin,” he said. Ambar Peguero, bookstore text manager, said the best time for students to sell their books for a
GO TO ONLINE BOOKS, PAGE 4
Students who have difficulties obtaining or maintaining health insurance might benefit from alternatives that are becoming more popular and necessary in times of economic turmoil. An increasingly popular example is the Take Care Health System, acquired by Walgreens in 2007 and effective since 2004. The program offers assistance to walk-in patients seeking diagnoses and treatment for common illnesses or injuries, as well as preventive assistance including vaccinations, physical examinations and screenings, according to Gabriel Weissman, a spokesperson for the company. “Over 40 percent of our patients tell us that if it werenʼt for our Take Care Health clinics throughout the United States, they would go to the emergency room, urgent care clinic, or wouldnʼt seek treatment,” said Weissman. “Our clinics give all Americans a chance to get needed health care and stay healthy.” Take Care Health clinics accept most health insurances, but also work with uninsured patients at affordable rates and convenient operating hours, including weeknights and weekends with extended evening hours. Prices average from $59-$74, according to Weissman. “If patients canʼt get a doctorʼs appointment or donʼt have time to wait in an emergency room but need care right away, Take Care Health clinics are a perfect option,” the spokesperson said. “Theyʼre staffed by highly trained nurse practitioners.”
GO TO INSURANCE, PAGE 3
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February 18, 2009
NEWS
Reflections blossoms in the past two years Magazine established ʻlong lasting linkʼ for students and their creativity Krystal Mederos Staff Writer
In May 2006, professor Marlene Cueto started a magazine to help her students showcase their photography and writing skills. Reflections Magazine is an online medium that spotlights studentsʼ stories, essays, poetry, art and photography. Faculty and staff can also contribute to the magazine with their ideas. Articles are written by the editor, professor Bert Lorenzo, to improve student success. The magazine also highlights student activity involvement, performances and other events. At first, Cueto, who also serves as the magazineʼs editor in chief, emailed the magazine to her students once a month. Word spread fast and her email list grew quickly. Cueto decided to move the magazine from email to an online version, so anyone can access it. “I wanted to establish a long lasting link with my students and provide a place where we could share our successes and joys,” said Cueto. Many former students remain in contact with Cueto via the magazine although
Provided by Media Services FIRST PLACE: Editor Yasmin Moses and poetry contest winner Rachel Marshall.
they have graduated from the college. Some students submit only once to the magazine, while others continue to submit even after they have left Cuetoʼs class. Currently, Yasmin Moses is the editor
of the magazineʼs poetry corner and is the only student who submits poetry on a monthly basis. She has written Life, A Woman Within, God Made Me, and many more. Cuetoʼs most memorable poem from
a student was from Moses called, Hero in My Life. Reflections held their first poetry contest in the Fall 2008. “It was an experience that I will never forget,” said Moses. College prep students from writing, reading and math classes were able to submit to the contest. Winners included: The first place winner was Rachel Marshall; the second place winner was Jerome Nelson; and the third place winner was Hilarison Petit-Frere. The winning entries will be posted on the magazine in the upcoming weeks. Cueto doesnʼt see the magazine being printed on paper any time soon. Having the magazine online is easy to edit and distribute. It also provides readers with 24/7 access, Cueto said. Moses, Lorenzo and Cueto write, prepare and distribute on their own time. Cueto said she would like to have a printing of a “yearly showcase” edition if they could find a sponsor. This is a new goal for Reflections Magazine in the upcoming year. “It is a labor of love for Yasmin Moses, Bert Lorenzo, and me,” said Cueto about the magazine. To view the magazine, visit “reflections onlinemagazine.blogspot.com.”
Students help community through service learning ʻYou learn things you wouldnʼt normally learn in a school settingʼ Joanna Sanchez Staff Writer
Relevant and meaningful service with the community, enhanced academic learning, and purposeful civic learning” is the motto that the North Campus Center for Community Involvement follows. “Service-learning changed my perspective on how being a student doesnʼt just mean academics,” said Lamise Alabeb, a political science major who participated in an organization called Students Working for Equal Rights. “It means learning through your experiences.” Service-learning gets students involved with non-profit organizations to help the community. Based on the studentsʼ interest, they are paired with an organization. There are more than 200 community non-profit partners they can choose from. “You learn things you wouldnʼt normally learn in a school setting,” said Christina Freira, a biology major who was involved in peer tutoring in the math center. Community Service and Servicelearning are not the same. While in community service students only volunteer, service-learning gives students academic credit and requires students to work on a reflection. Reflections allow students to look back on their experiences by doing a journal, engaging in group discussions or writing a paper regarding how they have helped their community. The Presidentʼs Volunteer Award was established by former president George W. Bush to nationally recognize outstanding individuals who devote their time to
giving back to the community. There are four different awards; bronze (100 hours), silver (250), gold (500), and the lifetime achievement award (4,000 hours or two years). The application for the Presidentʼs Volunteer Award is now available at CCI. “We try to make them well-rounded when they leave here and very skillful in office work,” said CCI director Rose Davilmar. CCI offers the ambassador program for students who want to get involved with the department. Students in the program act a liaisons between faculty and students. Student ambassadors speak with faculty to discuss student needs. “I saw and dealt with so many things. This is a great preparation to deal with tough things in my career,” said Susana Rodriguez, a psychology major who volunteers at the Joe DiMaggio Childrenʼs Hospital. According to Davilmar, service-learning gives students the chance to build their resume. It gives students the opportunity to network with people in the field of work they are interested in. Students can register for servicelearning at “mdc.edu/cci.” Students must contact the agency of their choice on their own. At the end of the service learning project, the student is given a transcript of his or her hours for scholarship applications and transferring. “This is an awesome opportunity, especially with the way the economy is. It is a great way to sharpen your skills by volunteering,” said Davilmar. “A lot of agencies are looking for your help, you can make a difference one hour at a time.”
‘This is an awesome opportunity, especially with the way the economy is. It is a great way to sharpen your skills by volunteering’ - CCI director Rose Davilmar.
Provided by Media Services LEARNING THROUGH SERVICE: MDC students participate at the 2008 Special Olympics as a service learning project.
February 18, 2009
Clinics can offer affordable services for students
FROM INSURANCE, FRONT PAGE
In addition, the clinics work with patientsʼ primary physicians, if they are insured. Every clinic is equipped with two examination rooms, electronic sign-in technology and a waiting area. Translations are also offered at selected locations, and in Miami, many have electronic sign-in kiosks and assistance in Spanish. According to Weissman, Florida is Take Care Health Systemʼs largest market, with 38 clinics throughout the state, 21 of those located throughout greater Miami and West Palm Beach areas. “It really is a focus on convenience and affordability,” said Weissman. “We see our patients with a smile.” Students have another option for affordable healthcare. The Web site “studenthealthinsurance.com” offers students from Florida a variety of options, and premium quotes range from about $1,641.50 ($2,500 deductible) to about $3,490.70 ($250 deductible) a year. Healthcare is one of the most complex issues President Barack Obama faces. Many students are covered by federal plans such as Medicaid, as is the case of Kenia Smith, 22, who plans to be an elementary school teacher. Since her job does not cover health insurance, she is satisfied with the option, although she fears dealing with a health problem that exceeds Medicaidʼs capacity. “My insurance is very expensive,” biology major Marcela Jaramillo said, who pays $200 a month for her Vista insurance. “It has been good, they treat every problem I might have, but itʼs difficult to afford it.” “It is helpful,” Smith said. “But I hope that the situation gets better, because people may need assistance on something that Medicaid does not provide.” Samuel Vazquez, 32, who is also insured by Medicaid, said that the plan has been efficient to him and to his family. “They cover my medicine and any problems I might have,” said Vazquez. “They have good eye-doctors and recently they are including dental care in the program, like free cleaning and fillings.” Mabel Verosales, a nursing major, said that she is not as worried about health insurance as she is about other, graver expenses. “I think that, for a young person, you go to the doctor maybe once a year,” Verosales said. “To me, itʼs not a priority, and I rather spend my money on other stuff, like paying for my car.”
NEWS
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NEWS
In Short...
February 18, 2009
By Laura C. Morel & Camille Gregory Staff Members
Scholarship opportunity for students The College Hispanic Council has made available a scholarship opportunity for MDC students. Students must have completed at least 12 credit hours by the end of the spring semester and have at least a 3.0 GPA. The scholarship will help cover tuition and other expenses related to attending school and is only available
to students continuing their education in MDC or transferring to another institution. Students interested must complete an application, an essay and provide a recent copy of a degree audit for transcript. The deadline is Feb. 27. For more information, call Ana Corrales at (305) 237-1239.
Journalism Speaker Series continues The next presentation of the Miami Dade College Journalism Speaker Series will be held at the Wolfson Campus, 300 NE Second Ave., Room 7128, Feb. 24 at 11:15 a.m. The speakers will be The Clarion
Ledger managing editor Don Hudson and National Public Radio journalist Dan Grech. For more information on this and other presentations, call Manolo Barco at (305) 237-1255 or (305) 237-3477.
SGA townhall meeting February 19 The North Campusʼ Student Government Association will be holding a townhall meeting Feb. 19 in the MJ Taylor Lounge, Room 4207. “The main purpose of our townhall meetings is to make students aware
of the different issues that will affect them,” said Jennifer Garcia, a business administration major. Students are invited to the townhall meetings. Townhall meetings are held at least once every semester.
Buying textbooks online becomes affordable option FROM ONLINE BOOKS, FRONT PAGE
higher price is right before finals. “Selling your book is about timing,” she said. According to Peguero, from April 1, 2007 through Jan. 23, 2008, 4,321 students sold their books back to the bookstore. From April 1, 2008 through Jan. 23, 2009, 5,133 students returned their textbooks as well. “We have put money back into studentsʼ hands by buying those books,” Betts said. But even though the bookstore has helped fill studentsʼ pockets, itʼs not enough for some students. Harroch said she paid the bookstore $400 for five books from her own money this semester because she doesnʼt receive financial aid. Because of the high-priced textbooks, students and professors are looking online for cheaper alternatives. On the Miami Dade North bookstore website, a new copy of the Bedford Anthology of World Literature, books 4, 5, and 6, cost $84. On “amazon.com.” the same new book set can be found for $72.50. A used copy of the Algebra and Trigonometry textbook including two CDs for college algebra costs $123.75 at the bookstore. On “half.com,” a new copy with
the same CD features costs $78.75. “Buying online can be a cheaper alternative if a student carefully knows how to buy a text (used or new) and compares various online sites,” said professor Cherie Cannon. Although buying online might save students money, other factors should be taken into account. “If students are going to order online they need to calculate shipping costs, and order early enough to allow for the time it takes for books to arrive in the mail,” said professor Nora Hendrix. “You want to have your books at the very beginning of the term and not have to wait for them to arrive once the class has begun.” Music professor Marc Douyon said he encourages his students to buy from the bookstore. “As a professor, I always tell my students to get their textbooks from our bookstore,” he said. “Buying textbooks from the Internet can be cheaper, but they are never bundled the way that I order them from our bookstore.” Betts said “competition is positive,” but students should be careful when they purchase through the Internet. “When youʼre buying online, most of the time, you donʼt know what youʼre buying,” he said. His staff, Betts said, will continue to provide students with the best customer service. “Iʼm sorry for students who are upset,” he said. “We will always be the bad guys.”
IN LOVING MEMORY: Professor Morris Johnson. Provided by Theo Karantsalis
Retired professor Johnson passes on Miami Dade College African American history professor Morris R. Johnson passed away Feb. 5 at North Shore Hospital. He was 64. Johnson retired in June 2008 after 30 years of teaching at MDC. For nearly 12 years, Johnson collected books and school supplies that he
sent to children in countries like Haiti, Jamaica, South Africa, and the Dominican Republic. He gave his students extra credit for donating supplies. Students and faculty paid their respects to the late professor Johnson during a funeral service Feb. 14 at the Lehman Theater.
February 18, 2009
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OPINION
World inches closer to science fiction novel
By Akeem Mayers
THE FALCON TIMES 11380 N.W. 27 Avenue, Room 4209 Miami, FL 33167 (305) 237-1253 (305) 237-1254 Fax: (305) 237-8262
Josh Kotel Columnist
Editorial Board Laura C. Morel Editor in Chief Anahi Cortada Managing Editor Greg Torrales Advertising Manager Daniel Masip Entertainment Editor Jessica Tejeda Features Editor
“Your TV is going to change,” is what we are told. This slogan is used to represent the nationwide shift to digital reception. The only way you are going to get television after June 12 is if you update your TV to receive a digital transmission. Technology is impressive and progressive, yet it is nearly impossible to live without. The real scare is delivered in the presentation of the ads for digital television; with each one, there is some negative connotation to the shift to digital with parables linked to old science fiction stories. It seems as if every year we are inching closer to living in a world that was predicted by old sciencefiction writers in the 1950ʼs. Compare our televisions changing to Ray Bradburyʼs classic Fahrenheit 451, a novel set in a future where books are illegal. All of the books are burned by people called “firemen,” because of the knowledge within the books and the critical thought that is provoked by them. Of course, this is not the situation with the change to digital television, but the big picture is - now everything is on the same wavelength. All new electronic “tools” can wirelessly connect, be bugged with viruses, and upload from a wireless database. That is some scary stuff. Think about Isaac Asimovʼs I-Robot, where computers become so highly intelligent and develop consciousness. The robots that upload from that computerʼs database are sold as personal robots. When the “new wave” of robot comes out, the hook is that they will be able to upload software updates overnight from their companyʼs mega-computer. Soon enough, the computer takes matters into its own hands and turns on the humans. The danger is the amount of power it has, power that was given to the people. This was a concept that was thought of before even the Internet was around. This is the folly of modern man. We create things like algorithms (bite size nuggets of binary knowledge that enable our computers to learn from us), phones that notify you of their own updates, and a separate online world that seems to operate and turn up seaches on its own. Technology is getting smart, possibly too smart. How smart are we going to let our televisions become? Perhaps too smart, because too many people are okay with letting someone else do grunt work, and that is something to worry about. I am not suggesting this will be our fate, but we keep surrendering more of our power to these larger systems of management. It is this dangerous convenience that creates a web of technology around us. Oh, how we are stuck in the web. Josh Kotel is studying journalism and psychology at Miami Dade College. Heʼs an entertainment writer at the Metropolis, the student newspaper at the Wolfson Campus.
Staff
? k n i h T u o Y o D t a
Wh
What has your experience been like in regards to parking at school?
Photos and interviews by Alex Donestevez
Alejo Stark Roy Frenkiel Krystal Mederos Camille Gregory Akeem Mayers Alex Donestevez Lauren Bernal Belkis Perez Shelby Contreras Monique Dos Anjos John Rodriguez Evelina Arzanova
Manolo Barco
Juliany Rivera, 21 Biology Major “Parking has always been a mission here at Miami Dade College. Unfortunately, I always park by the stadium and because of it I’m always late to class.”
Adviser
The Falcon Times is published by the students of Miami Dade College North Campus. Decisions regarding content are made by student editors.The opinions in this newspaper do not necessarily represent those of the administration, faculty, or the student body. Advertising Information For ad information, contact Greg Torrales, advertising manager, at (786) 237-8414, or at gtorrales_metropolis@yahoo. com. Letters to the Editor
Elwood Augustin, 19 Computer Programming Major “The front parking gets packed real fast. If you park somewhere else it’s too far of a walk.”
Joan Rojas, 18 Pharmacy Major “The parking is horrible. I have to come to school an hour before my class starts just to find a parking space.”
Michael Perez, 23 Undecided Major “Parking is annoying. They should have some type of shuttle or at least parking garages.”
Manouchck Ineus, 19 Emergency Medical Service Major “I don’t think it’s fair that the teachers have parking up close while students have to walk.”
The Falcon Times welcomes letters to the editor. All submissions should be 300 words or less and must be typed. The writer must sign their full name, phone number, address, student number, and e-mail address on the letter in order to be considered. Faculty and staff should include the title, department, and extension. All letters are subject to editing. Letters can be sent via e-mail to thefalcontimes@hotmail. com, with the subject “letter to the editor.”
Corrections Found an error in the newspaper? Call us at (305) 237-1253 to let us know.
February 18, 2009
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FEATURES
A Thousand Words
Photo provided by Jennifer Tejeda
“The optimist sees the rose and not its thorns; the pessimist stares at the thorns, oblivious to the rose.” - Kahlil Gibran
FASHIONISTA... Lauren Bernal Fashion Critic
F
i r s t impressions are truly everything, so next time you have to make a good one, think about what message your outfit is exuding. Itʼs important to understand what type of look works with your body type, in order to avoid making a bad impression. According to Instyle Magazine, here are several tips to know that will show your body appropriately. If your hips are wider than your shoulders stick to double breasted trenches and jackets, along with square sleeves to help draw more attention to your upper body. Avoid pants and dresses with too much detail in the bottom. Curves are beautiful, so if you have an hourglass figure, accentuate it. A look that works well with a curvy body is the infamous wrap dress, as well as high-wasted wideleg pants. These classic looks are perfect tool to shrink your waist while enhancing your assets. If you are trying to find an outfit for a fancy occasion, it could be hard because most trendy dresses these days are made of clingy or tight-fitting fabrics, just donʼt give up until youʼve tried Spanx. This is the ultimate undergarment for any outfit, it literally lifts and smoothes your butt and stomach, not only making dresses fit better, but look better.
If your shoulders are broader than your hips, wear A-line skirts and dresses that add volume to your lower body. Long cardigans and long vests work with broad shoulders as well, because they add length to your body making them seem smaller. Narrow bodies on the other hand should wear bold patterns like horizontal stripes to add width. To attract more attention to the upper body, one should wear ruffled tops, and empire- waist tops. For emphasis on the lower body, one could also wear skirts and dresses with volume, along with bold belts that include buckles. “I find it hard to find jeans that fit both my waist and butt, if it fits one part it doesnʼt fit the other,” said nursing student Gina Vancol. This is a very common problem thatʼs easy to solve, donʼt be afraid of getting something altered. For women with small wastes and big bottoms, you can buy a larger jean, and get the waist altered to fit. If you cannot find pants that fit length-wise, hemming is the simplest fix. Itʼs amazing what wonders an alteration can do. If you donʼt feel comfortable in what you are wearing, thatʼs most likely because itʼs not the right outfit for your body type. Stick to the rules, and give different styles that work with your body a chance. You might not like the idea of wearing a knee length skirt with a ruffled blouse, if your into the edgy look, yet you might change your mind once you see how much better your body looks.
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February 18, 2009
FEATURES
n o r p A e h Behind t The cafeteria employees at the North Campus
LUNCH WITH A SMILE: Marianella Peralta serves food with a smile to students Timur Kuzibaev and Francisco Soliman.
Shelby Contreras Staff Writer
There is more than an assortment of food in the cafeteria in building four, there is a variety of interesting people hidden behind serving stations and uniforms. The kitchen staff at North Campus is full of lively characters, colorful personalities, close bonds and passionate workers.
Cafeteria Manager, Carmen Curiel, said that she is close to everyone she works with, including her brother who happens to be the area coordinator for the North and Kendall campus cafeterias. Franco Curiel, Carmen Curielʼs brother, said truly enjoys his work, which consists of supervising the managers and employees to make sure they comply with the standards of the company as well as the college requirements. “I am the liaison between the company and the college,” said Curiel.
Curiel believes that it is important for Lackmann Culinary Services to receive feedback from students and stay connected with campus life. “We have a good partnership with the Student Life Department, the different heads of the departments, and the Dean of Students and Administration,” said Curiel. Both friends and co-workers, chef assistant Janice Ingham, and grill cook, Marianela Peralta, said that their favorite part of coming to work is having good company and helping make customers
Alejo Stark/Falcon Staff
happy. “The employees are polite and kind,” said computer animation major, Marcus Daniel Jackson. If there is anything the kitchen staff savors more than their fun and friendly working environment, it is the pride that they take in their work. “Making the food pretty is the best thing,” said kitchen chef Jose Asensi. “I make International food, Chinese, Italian. But for me, the best thing is Spanish food from my country.”
VS. Who Will Win the Battle? Belkis Perez Staff Writer
The minute the power button is pushed to turn on the monitor of a computer, two thoughts come to mind: “I need to check my Facebook or MySpace.” These websites have become part of the daily routine for many individuals. But what is it about these websites that makes it so addictive to check them? MySpace was the first online social network built and it was founded in August 2003. It gives individuals the opportunity to customize a web page in order to fit the userʼs needs. MySpace gave rise to a website that would be used for chatting and messaging, while providing a connection between friends. Now available in 15 languages, MySpace helps users locate friends from around the world. It provides an inside scoop on what is happening in the lives of loved ones and friends. “I have a MySpace to keep in contact with my friends because they move away to college and
new states,” Milove Pierre, a criminal justice major said. But, is exposing your life on the Internet all benefits and no losses? Out of hundreds of friends, MySpace allows each individual to set up a “Top Friends” where the most important would be number one. Jealousy strikes when friends see that one friend is more important than the other. “Significant others are expected to be first. You rank the most important on top to the least important on the bottom,” Pierre said. These Internet sites have given people useful purposes aside from socializing, many use it as a means to communicate with professors or colleagues; therefore, it might not be appropriate to display certain things that can damage a personʼs reputation. “I wouldnʼt leave people comments on Facebook because it doesnʼt keep it private everyone can see what you said,” Franklin Alexis, a criminal justice major said. There comes a point where people should stop and think before posting something publicly
on these websites, that can be seen by employers, professors, and other professional contacts. “If you wouldnʼt say it in front of everyone or show it to everyone, then donʼt put it on MySpace or Facebook,” Jennie Lundahl, english professor at the North Campus said. While MySpace has been a great innovation, it was only time before a rival came into the picture: Facebook. Facebook started in 2004. This website was originally built for college students, but is now available to everyone over the age of 13. Facebook provides many of the same features as MySpace but has a more uniform look. The pages canʼt be customized and since it is more professional there are no nicknames. A personʼs first and last name are used to identify them. Unlike Facebook, in Myspace the personʼs display name doesnʼt have to be their name, making the website suitable for a younger crowd. Since Facebook originally started out just for college students many professors have a Facebook to keep in contact with students.
“I absolutely love being able to share with students, and I treasure the way I can keep in touch with them on here,” Lundahl said. Facebook and MySpace both facilitate means for keeping in contact with individuals you donʼt see on a daily basis. Facebook provides users a “news feed” which indicate swhat friends did while on the website. MySpace provides a similar feature that tells the user when a friend has updated a picture or a new song on their page. It keeps users up to date on the changes posted in the lives of friends. “I think either site can be really useful in finding old friends and keeping in touch as people move on. Itʼs also a lot of fun; itʼs a way of personalizing different interests, kind of like making a virtual scrapbook of your pictures and interests and so on,” Lundahl said. Both websites keep users updated and many find it a great tool to stay in touch with friends, but not everyone has a Facebook or Myspace. “Sometimes I feel disconnected because all my friends have Facebook and MySpace. But I
donʼt mind because Iʼm not so into having so many friends and knowing all about their lives,” Diana Habib, an education major said. Habib feels that if she were to have a Myspace or Facebook, she would waste too much time chatting with friends. So to avoid wasting valuable time, she just abstains from having any of these websites all together. At the moment, which website is conquering the Internet world, Facebook or MySpace? When these social networks were first created, MySpace was on top. But now many college students are leaning toward using Facebook because it provides some features MySpace didnʼt offer until recently. “Facebook makes it easier to find people because friends are by first and last name,” Alexis said. Both websites are suited toward an individualʼs personality and preferences. They essentially serve similar purposes except both websites carry themselves differently. So which website will take over the social network? Only time will tell.
February 18, 2009
ENTERTAINMENT
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Action thriller involving an abduction
The gift of Left Eye will not be T forgotten
Stephanie Reyes Wolfson Bureau
Evelina Arzanova Music Review
S
even years after Lisa “Left Eye” Lopesʼ death, her family decided to keep her soul alive by giving rise to her first posthumous album Eye Legacy. Subsequent to Lopesʼ tragic car accident in Honduras at age 31, her music career came to a halt. On Jan. 27, 2009, Eye Legacy was released, after being pushed back multiple times due to complications. The former member of an R&B group, Tender Loving Care (TLC), Lopes is remembered in this album by her dynamic personality. This album consists of some unreleased tracks as well as a recreation of her old compilations from the 2001 album, Supernova. Although “Crank it” was a single released as a promo (featuring Lopesʼ sister, Reigndrop Lopes) for Eye Legacy, the official single for the album is called “Letʼs Just Do It.” This never released song includes rapper Missy Eliot and the remaining members of TLC (Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins and Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas). Lopesʼ latest compilation features many trendy hip-hop and R&B stars such as Chamillionaire, Bobby Valentino, Bone Crusher, with the addition of Tupac Shakur. Other unknown, previously recorded tracks include “Bounce”, “Never Will Eye Eva”, and “Through the Pain.” These remaining melodies are mostly a blend of new beats with the original lyrics. With the fusion of the new artists along with the remake of Lopesʼ past songs, the album is a must-have for all hip-hop/R&B enthusiasts.
he scenario: A Father lets his 17year-old daughter go to Paris with her 19-year-old friend against his better judgment. On arrival, both girls get abducted as daddy dearest hears his daughterʼs screams through her handy-dandy international cell phone. Any parent in such a situation would break down into a helpless mess of regret and desperation. But not this 17-year-oldʼs dad. Bryan Mills, played
by Liam Neeson, is a retired CIA agent with skills so amazing that James Bond, Jason Bourne, and Jack Bauer are petty in comparison. Which is why, when hearing his daughterʼs screams, he quite calmly warns her abductors, “[I have] a very particular set of skills; skills I have acquired over a very long career. Skills that make me a nightmare for people like you. If you let my daughter go now, thatʼll be the end of it. I will not look for you, I will not pursue you. But if you donʼt, I will look for you, I will find you, and I will kill you.” In a heavy accent, the abductor replies, “good luck” and then hangs up the phone. This sets off the film into the most action-packed 91 minutes of your life. As prom-
ised, Mills flies to Paris to find his daughter and her captors. Electroshock torture, giant leaps off bridges, and bullets flying left and right make Mills the lovable hero while the group of abductors, set on addicting their captives to drugs and selling them as sex items, are such hated villains that they start the crowd up with boisterous boos and guttural groans. Character backgrounds are well developed and the actors are properly cast as the viewer gets a sense of the true connection between Mills and his teenage daughter, Kim, played by Maggie Grace. Adding to the overall tension is the mystery be-
Liam Neeson interrogates a criminal during the film Taken.
hind Millsʼ friend (or foe?), French intelligence agent Jean-Claude, who keeps a watchful eye on Millsʼ every move. Directed by Pierre Morel, Taken grossed $9.4 million on opening day and since then has grossed $54,911,688 in the United States and $123,962,475 worldwide. The film is sure to amuse all action/adventure lovers. The action makes up for the way all the events fall perfectly into place and alleviates the sometimes bland dialogue. Itʼs well worth the $10 ticket and the oversized bag of popcorn. Run out and watch it before it gets taken off the big screen.
Courtesy of 20th Century Fox
Brad Pitt ages in reverse in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button Kristina Andrion Wolfson Bureau “I was born under unusual circumstances.” While these subtle words only allude to the perplexing condition of Benjamin Button, the prelude commences one of the greatest films of 2008. Based off of F. Scott Fitzgeraldʼs short story, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button evokes elements of both whimsical and rational merit. Unconceivable yet feasible, the storyline charms audiences with its dual theme of timeless love and human mortality. In The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, a child is born as an octogenarian with a lively sense of curiosity and enthusiasm. Progressively getting younger with time, Button adapted and
still learned all the facts of life, regardless of his age. From his inquisitive horseplay as an elderly man to his failing cognition as a toddler, Button lived a multi-faceted life. Despite the conundrum inverted maturity imposes, Button persisted to distinguish himself among the rest with his reverse aging and to astonish all with his miraculous potential. Experiencing labor, love, and loss, the tale of Benjamin Button is riveting and likely to captivate audiences across the age spectrum. With an eclectic, starstudded cast, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button takes on a new life with each actorʼs and actressʼs characterization of their role. Starring as protagonist (Benjamin Button), Brad Pitt
personifies every one of the quirks of Fitzgeraldʼs character. Far from his rambunctious Tyler Durden days and epoch of being the sarcastic stud in films, Pitt has balanced the genteel nature of the South with fiery spirit of his own heart. Opposite Pitt and love interest of Button, Cate Blanchett plays Daisy, the passionate and loving companion to Benjamin Button. Alongside these characters, Buttonʼs adopted mother Queenie is played by Taraji P. Henson who brings an animated and sincere twist to her character. Sweeping the awards circuit of Hollywood, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button already has 47 nominations for various classes and from various organizations. Additionally, the
film has been nominated for 13 Academy Awards and has won five of the nominations. From the “Best Director” to “Best Picture of the Year,” the film has defied silver screen convention and is being acknowledged for its groundbreaking endeavor. With a full life and energy that mesmerizes audiences nationwide, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button will resonate throughout movie chronicles for years to come. Like the story of Benjamin Button, the 168-minute film persevered despite financial and digital limitations. Breaking the boundaries of nature and time, Benjamin Button has taught audiences an inspirational and simple lesson with his story: Life is not measured in time, but rather in moments.
Page 10
February 18, 2009
ENTERTAINMENT
Cultura Del Lobo brings new interpretation Monique Dos Anjos Staff Writer
H
ip-hop is NOT dead. According to Marc Bamuthi Joseph, author of the break/s, hip-hop is very much alive. Joseph recited these lines to go with the flow of poem and the alignment of his body: “Hip-hop is poetry in motion... no doubt.” the break/s, subtitled “a mixtape for stage,” was written for our generation whose vision of hip-hop has been obscured by the American society. the break/s will be performed at the North Campus Feb 20-21 at 8 p.m. in the Lehman Theater. After Joseph read Jeff Changʼs Canʼt Stop Wonʼt Stop, he wrote the break/s to show todayʼs generation the need to break free from anything that is considered normal. Artistic and interim executive director, Gregory Jackson, watched the break/s in New York City in January. “the break/s is about the rise of hip-hop. Itʼs a political/grassroots/arts movements to this worldwide phenomenon cultural movement,” Jackson said. the break/s features live performances from percussionist Tommy Shepherd (a.k.a. Soulati) and DJ Excess. It also includes live video with interviews on hiphop by David Slzasa. Joseph uses spoken word, beat-box, music, and dance (brilliantly choreographed by Stacey Printz) to show the world his travels through time and the identity that we seem to be missing in our lives. If you feel that you have forgotten the importance of hip-hop, its history, and its true meaning, then bring your friends and
HIP HOP IS ALIVE: the break/s presents break dancing, interpretative dance, poetry and more.
loved ones. This is a timeless story that will serve as a reminder to those who have let hip-hop become defined as “money, cars, and sex.” It takes one person to break free from what is considered “normal” and open the eyes of others whom have been deceived by the mainstream; that person will be Joseph. “When people say ʻhip-hop is deadʼ, nine times out of ten they probably donʼt understand what hip-hop is for,” Jackson said. “Hip-hop is on a much higher socially conscious level.” Hip-hop is not only about what is advertised (money, cars, clothes, etc.). In
the break/s, Joseph is a storyteller, traveling from the beginning of the hip-hop to todayʼs age. He is a wanderer without a home, searching for the meaning of hiphop. the break/s is the discovery of personal identity, race, and love. “I wanted this piece to feel like I was the cross fader,” Joseph said. In the break/s, Joseph travels to Florida, Haiti, Japan, South Africa, Senegal, Paris, Minneapolis, Wisconsin, and Bosnia. Joseph was at North Campus five years ago performing Word Becomes Flesh, a story that reflected the relationship with his father and son.
Bethanie Hines/Media Relations
Joseph has appeared on Broadway with his Tony Award-winning piece The Tap Dance Kid and Stand-Up Tragedy. He is also a National Poetry Slam champion and a GOLDIE award winner. Joseph has also appeared on Russell Simmonsʼ Def Poetry on HBO for two seasons. One of his performances on Def Poetry was titled “For Pop,” a poem dedicated to his father and the rejection he received from him.
Due to graphic language, this show is not suitable for children under 14.
e n i s i u C h t r o Dade N Cheap eats right around the corner John Rodriguez Food Critic
J
ust over a year ago, Germaine Adderly found herself in a dilemma. She was a very active woman who went to a gym every day down the street from MDC North, but after her workouts, she would never find a place to have a light meal and a good smoothie. So, she began to work with Shirkella Rolle on opening up her own small sandwich and smoothie shop that would be closer to this area. Adderly finally achieved this when she opened Urban Coffee, Smoothie & More!!! on Jan. 31, 2009. Located right across the
North Campus, Adderly thought about the studentʼs needs when it was time to decide upon a menu and a few more extras. For example, she offers Wi-Fi to customers to allow people to complete last minute school work and check emails while enjoying their food. The restaurant also has a 20 percent discount to all MDC North firefighters, police, students, and teachers with a valid photo ID. Although parking and seating is limited, it is worth the time and effort to dine here for the fantastic food and smoothies. All the smoothies are made with fresh fruit, some of which are grown locally, and include such flavors like Mango Tropic, Peach Sensation, and Strawberries Delight.
The venue also offers a wide variety of sandwiches, from tried and true classics like roast beef to low-carb subs such as the Grilled BBQ Chicken wrap. However, of all the sandwiches available here, one in particular deserves a special mention: the media noche (or midnight sandwich). The menu is diverse and appropriate for whatever time you choose to go there, whether itʼs in the morning for coffee and a bagel; or in the afternoon for a smoothie and a wrap. On top of this, nothing on the menu is more than $5. Personally, this restaurant is recommendable for anyone looking for great food at amazing prices, all while receiving friendly service.
John Rodriguez/Falcon Staff
Urban Coffee, Smoothie & More!!! Mon-Sat - 7 a.m.-8 p.m. 11501 NW 27th Ave. Ph: (305) 688-3007 (786) 487-8497 Price Range: $5 or less