“Supermensch” Shep Gordon visits UB A break down of UB’s latest construction projects THE INDEPENDENT STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY AT BUFFALO, SINCE 1950
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Volume 64 No. 26
Dropping
ANDY KONIUCH SPORTS EDITOR
Jason Berger will be getting high and dropping out before Saturday’s football game. Berger, who founded the UB Skydiving club in 2008, will be jumping out a Cessna 182 – a four person light utility aircraft – down onto the UB Stadium field Saturday to deliver the game ball to the Bulls before kickoff against Central Michigan. “I’m very proud being the founder of UB’s Skydiving club,” Berger said. “The chance for an actual alumni to jump into the stadium and deliver the game ball, that to me is a great honor.” UB Skydiving, a Student Association club that wears the phrase “Get high, drop out: UB Skydiving,” on their Tshirts, presents students a chance to experience the thrill of jumping out of a plane. The club skydives at Frontier Skydivers in Newfane, New York – about 20 minutes from campus from May to October. The club has wanted to organize a dive into UB Stadium since its inception in 2008. Berger became the first student to jump onto UB’s North Campus, but could never get permission to do so at the stadium. Berger finally received permission to dive on the field before the Bulls’ Oct. 25 game from Elaine Russell, senior director of marketing for the athletics instruction. He first thought of creating a skydiving club after looking through a list of the clubs at UB. “When I heard UB had a Quidditch club, I’m not making fun of anyone, but I said to myself, ‘Quidditch club? If they have this, why can’t we have skydiving?’” he said. Berger then approached SA to propose
Getting a flu shot on campus now costs $10
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UB Skydiving to deliver Bulls’ game ball Saturday
Jason Berger, founder of UB Skydiving, jumps with former student Jillian Schuppenhauer. On Saturday, Berger will dive into UB Stadium to deliver the football team's game ball. COURTESY OF JASON BERGER
the formation of a club in which students regularly jump out of planes. “’No f***ing way,’ is what they told me,” Berger said with a laugh. “I said, ‘Well, you have to give me a better reason than that.’” Berger turned to the United States Parachute Association (USPA) for help. The organization helped Berger argue the safeness of skydiving to UB and explain that other schools were doing the same thing. After a year of fulfilling its club requirements, UB Skydiving became the fastest
club to go from temporary to permanent, earning the best new SA club award of 2009-10. UB Skydiving meets in NSC 228 every other Monday from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Berger and John Huber, both club advisers, answer any questions reluctant students may have about skydiving. The two demonstrate how to pack a parachute or how to read an altimeter, the device used to measure one’s altitude. “When [Berger and Huber] answered all of my questions, I felt so much better about what I was getting myself into,”
said Taylor Williams, a sophomore occupational science major. “I didn’t know much about skydiving, but [when] you have two professionals, it’s really beneficial.” The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the governing body of the USPA, requires instructors to have at least three years of skydiving experience and complete 500 dives before engaging in tandem jumps. Instructors must also complete two written exams, in which one wrong answer results in an automatic failure. SEE SKYDIVING, PAGE 2
The ‘Young and Restless’ makes Buffalo a ‘sexy’ city Buffalo has a 34 percent population increase of young college graduates SAMAYA ABDUS-SALAAM ASST. NEWS EDITOR
Within a 12 year span, 34 percent more college graduates from ages 25 to 34 are choosing to stay in Buffalo after graduation, according to a recent study. The American Community Survey released a study on Oct. 19 entitled “The Young and Restless and the Nation’s Cities,” that examined 51 metropolitan areas with a population of one million or more for population changes within the last 12 years. Cities that have experienced population decline over the past 10 years are now seeing a population increase in young adults with a college degree, according to the study. The New York Times mentioned Buffalo in its article about the trend. Although cities like Portland, Oregon and Denver lead with higher percentages of this age group, more economically troubled areas like Buffalo and Cleveland are attracting them, too. Daniel Hess, an associate professor in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, said the increase of college graduates and young people moving to Buffalo is definitely a “step in the right direction.” “In the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, Buffalo was losing population and it was losing a great deal in population in that age cohort,” Hess said. “People had become quite used to the idea here that there was sort of a brain drain, that young and educated and talented people were not going to be so attracted to live in Buffalo and going to be looking to move elsewhere and start their careers in their young adult lives.” The increase is “a kind of indictor of the overall health and attractiveness of a metropolitan area,” according to the study, which was conducted by new think tank City Observatory. Young adults and college graduates are helping fast-growing businesses meet their labor quota, which in turn produces more jobs. When students are hired, it creates five additional jobs for others in the city, Enrico Moretti, an economist at the Univer-
CHAD COOPER, THE SPECTRUM
According to a recent study conducted by City Observatory, Buffalo has experienced a 34 percent population increase of young college graduates who choose to stay or relocate to the city after graduation.
sity of California, Berkley, told The New York Times. “It’s a type of growth that feeds on itself – the more young workers, the more companies are interested in locating their operations in that area and the more young people are going to move there,” Moretti said. The revitalization of Buffalo within the last two years is an indicator of the economic direction the city is headed in and a reason why young adults are attracted to Buffalo, Hess said. He said the increase of 34 percent is something city leaders should be happy with. Hess said 100 years ago, Buffalo was one of the wealthiest and best cities and many of the qualities that made it a thriving city are still present in its foundation. Now, young adults and college graduates may be attracted to Buffalo because of the reasonable housing and transportation costs, he said. “You can live more cheaply in Buffalo than in a lot of sexy cities like Boston and San Francisco and Washington,” Hess said. “The housing price is very reasonable here, so I think young people realize that they can have a lifestyle with sort of an ur-
ban edge that they might be looking for in a place that’s quite inexpensive.” Like many students, Dan Pu, a senior communication major, didn’t plan on staying in Buffalo. But when Pu applied and received a job as an auto-rate adjuster at Geico, he decided to rethink his decision. “I was getting worried because I knew the job market was getting hectic and it’s not easy to find a job,” Pu said. “I started looking around before I graduated and Geico seemed like a really good place [to work].” Pu said Buffalo is similar to his hometown in Albany, so he likes the environment. He said the amenities that are present in Amherst are centered on UB, so students are constantly surrounded by opportunities. After accepting the job, Pu plans to stay with Geico in Buffalo for at least two years, because it is a company requirement. He wants to eventually move up in position after graduating. David Xiong, a senior civil engineering major, said he has been planning to stay in Buffalo since his freshman year. The job market in Buffalo for civil engineers is more open than in his hometown of New
York City. “I feel jobs in New York City, especially for civil engineering, they require a lot higher specification for jobs so it’s harder to be accepted to those jobs,” Xiong said. He said his original plan was to get a job in Buffalo and build job experience. Then he would eventually move back home. He plans to start looking for more jobs in November. Other cities that have experienced a population increase are Houston at 50 percent, Nashville at 47 percent, Austin at 44 percent and Portland, Oregon at 37 percent. Detroit, however, has a population decline of 10 percent. “Buffalo has some good neighborhoods with some good bones, so there are walkable neighborhoods with commercial strips nearby, with shops and bars and restaurants and neighborhoods with some new urbanism and older urbanism characteristics,” Hess said. Hess said these urban characteristics are what will attract people of the millennial generation. email: news@ubspectrum.com
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UB students pay $10 to receive a flu shot on campus
Continued from skydiving, page 1 The members’ adrenaline outweighs their fears before they jump out of the plane, according to Williams. “Your adrenaline is pumping,” Williams said. “You’re just ready. You just go. That moment of free fall is intense. All that wind in your face; you’re falling so fast you don’t have time to think.” When diving, club members said they don’t look down at the ground, but keep their heads up at the horizon. Before his first jump, UB Skydiving current club President Kevin Santa “blanked out” because of the adrenaline he was experiencing. “My first thought was, ‘What if I fall out?’” Santa said. “My mind was kind of racing and I forget it was kind of the point to fall out. As soon as we jumped, my mind just went blank, not because I was scared, but because of the adrenaline. We pulled shoot and I just felt like a million bucks. I was hooked.” Santa has been trying to convince his parents to dive someday with him, but to no avail. “Its become a tradition before I jump, I send [my mom] a text message: ‘Hey mom, I’m about to jump out of a plane,’ then throw my phone in the car and walk away,” Santa said. “I like to mess with her. [I text her] ‘Lets hope the parachute opens.’” Skydiving, however, is not as dangerous as some may think, according to Berger. In 2013, 24 fatal skydiving accidents were recorded in the United States out of roughly 3.2 million jumps – that’s 0.0075 fatalities per 1,000 jumps – among the lowest rate in the sport’s history, according to the USPA. “People hear skydiving and stereotypically think: ‘dangerous,’” Berger said. “Driving a car is dangerous, walking down the street is dangerous. I’ve taken hundreds of people on tandem skydives and have never had anyone walk away with a sprained ankle.” The cost for an individual jump for members is $195. Nonmembers pay $250. To reduce the cost of members’ jump fee, Santa and UB Skydiving engage in various fundraising activities.
The club regularly sells their signature “Get High, Drop out” T-shirts, along with raffle tickets that can win a day of free skydiving. Students have jumped for a reduced price and even for free due to their fundraising efforts, according to Santa. “What you pay for your jump really comes down to how hard you tried,” Santa said. Saturday will not be Berger’s first experience diving onto campus. In 2009, with special permission from First Amherst, the company that owns the UB Commons, Berger became the first student to dive onto campus. He landed in the area between the Ellicott Complex and the bookstore. Santa said Berger would skydive onto campus and then go to class. “If people would ask, he’d say he couldn’t find parking,” Santa said. Berger has twice competed in the USPA Nationals, where he competed in accuracy and six-way speed star – teams make formations such as circles and stars in the air as quickly as possible. UB Skydiving currently has about 20 members, according to Santa. “When I was president, we used to fill up the entire lecture hall of Knox 20 from front to back,” Berger said.” “We really hope this jump [into UB Stadium] brings up numbers.” Santa hopes future members will become as hooked as he is after this Saturday’s jump. He believes the club is a great way to make friends and to try something new. Berger will become the first UB Alum to dive into UB Stadium Saturday, but not the first person. Members of Frontier Skydivers have previously skydived onto the field about 10 years ago, according to Berger. Make sure to look up for Berger this Saturday at UB Stadium when the Bulls take on Central Michigan at 3:30 p.m.
Elana Cwass (right), a junior health and human services major, received a flu shot from Stephanie Magnani (left), a junior nursing major, at an open clinic on Tuesday, which were held through Friday. UB students have to pay $10 to receive the vaccine, which covers the cost of the actual vaccine, this year and the year before. Cwass said she was surprised she had to pay the fee, and she LILY WEISBERG, THE SPECTRUM said more students would get the vaccine if it was free.
SHAROL SHAMSOR STAFF WRITER
For the second year, UB students have to pay $10 to get a flu shot administered to them through UB’s Student Health Services. Prior to last year, the $153 Health Service Fee in students’ tuition bill covered the flu shot vaccine, but the office is “no longer able to financially afford to do so,” according to Susan Snyder, director of Student Health Services. But despite the implemented fee, health services didn’t see much of a drop in the number of students getting vaccinated. The past week, Health Services offered walk-in clinics from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Student Union on North Campus Tuesday and Wednesday and on South Campus Thursday and Friday in the Biomedical Education Building’s lobby. “The more individuals vaccinated within our community, the less impact the flus season has for all of us,” Snyder said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported flu activity is low across the United States now, but usually picks up in October. The CDC recommends everyone six months or older receive the shot. The $10 fee can be billed to students’ UB accounts directly or be paid out of pocket, according email: sports@ubspectrum.com to Snyder. Students with the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York UB insurance plan will have the fee covered. She said health services is not permitted to bill other insurance plans. From 2012-13, there were 2,786 students who received the flu shot when there was no fee. Last year, 2,704 students still received the flu shot from health services, according to Snyder. Snyder said the $10 fee covers the cost of the vaccine itself. The cost of supplies, however, such as syringes, Band-Aids and paperwork, is still covered by the $153 Health Service Fee. Faculty and staff will have to pay $20 for the shot at UB because they do not pay a Health Service Fee. The $20 fee covers the vaccine and supporting supplies. The fees for the flu shots from Student Health Services costs less compared to major pharVOCATIONS DIOCESE OF BUFFALO macies and are a small price to pay in order to avoid a potentialRev. Walter J. Szczesny, Vocation Director ly significant illness, according (716) 847-5535 wszczesny@buffalodiocese.org to Dr. John Sellick, an associate professor in the Department of buff alovocations.org Medicine. 10/21/14 4:37 PM Page 1 The efficacy of the flu shots
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varies from year to year, Snyder said. Researchers work to match strains of the virus; the effectiveness of the vaccine depends on the accuracy predicted for the particular flu season. Nichole Siminski, a senior exercise science and psychology major, is required to receive a flu shot because she works at a hospital. She received the shot this year and last at UB. Siminski said she doesn’t mind paying the fee, though she would prefer it still be covered under the $153 fee she’s already paying. Sellick said flu shots are reliable, especially in young healthy people who respond well to the vaccine, but if they opt out of the shot and get ill, they’ll typically recover “after a few days of misery.” Christopher Jacobs, a junior electrical engineering major, said his immune system is too weak to receive the flu shot, but he would if he was able to. He said it is fair for UB to charge students for the shot, but he would understand if students did not want to pay the fee. “I just think students are upset because it was free before and now you have to pay,” he said. Pharmacies in Wegmans and Tops provide flu shots for free if your insurance is able to cover it. Harpreet Khera, a freshman biomedical science major, said it is disappointing that the health insurance that UB provides wouldn’t cover the cost for flu shots, but wasn’t planning on getting vaccinated. Though, if flu shots are free to the public, she thinks that others should take advantage of it. Namrah Raja, a freshman biomedical science major, also said if flu shots are free, students should get one. Khera said she still encourages others to get their flu shots, even though she does not plan on getting vaccinated. She said a student’s health should be their “main priority,” and if the vaccine is going to protect someone “from the flu season” then they should get their flu shots as soon as possible. Anuja Kale, a senior computer science major, said students would probably be more inclined to get the flu shot if it was provided for free, but $10 is a reasonable amount to ask for as well. Kale said she does not own a car so getting a shot at UB is more convenient than a pharmacy off campus. But if she had the option, she said she would prefer to go to a pharmacy if her insurance covered the cost of the shot. Students can continue to receive a flu shot by scheduling an appointment in Michael Hall. Sellick said the best way for the UB community to prevent itself from being diagnosed from the flu this winter, aside from getting the vaccine, is to practice good hygienic habits. Snyder said the office is anticipating the $10 charge will stay for now, but is also discussing alternatives to pay for the vaccine for next year. email: news@ubspectrum.com
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well, they are not good at conversation, and they don’t care what they eat. But I do, that’s why this Halloween I will be hanging out with all my ghoulish pals at Mighty Taco!
Friday, October 24, 2014 ubspectrum.com
Editorial Board EDITOR IN CHIEF
Sara DiNatale
MANAGING EDITOR
Owen O’Brien OPINION EDITOR
Tress Klassen COPY EDITORS
Rachel Kramer Alyssa McClure NEWS EDITORS
Amanda Low, Senior Samaya Abdus-Salaam, Asst. Giselle Lam, Asst. FEATURES EDITORS
Emma Janicki, Senior Sharon Kahn Sushmita Gelda, Asst. ARTS EDITORS
Jordan Oscar, Senior Brian Windschitl Tori Roseman, Asst. SPORTS EDITORS
Tom Dinki, Senior Andy Koniuch Jordan Grossman, Asst. PHOTO EDITORS
Chad Cooper, Senior Juan David Pinzon Yusong Shi CARTOONIST
Amber Sliter CREATIVE DIRECTORS
Jenna Bower Gelareh Malekpour, Asst.
Professional Staff OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
Helene Polley
OPINION
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Buffalo’s homeless need assistance, not analysis
Concern about homeless population’s negative impact on business overlooks real problem Don Warfe, a resident of downtown Buffalo worries that the presence of the homeless “gives tourists a bad impression.” Let’s hope it does. In their recent article and newscast on Buffalo’s “homeless problem,” WIVB News presents a cynical, coldhearted perspective on the issue of homelessness downtown. Despite publishing a solemn discussion of the poverty levels in Buffalo and the challenges faced by food banks and soup kitchens just under six months ago, WIVB News seems to have forgotten that “eye-opening” report. In light of the many exciting developments downtown, including the just-opened high rise hotel sure to attract tourists ready to enjoy what Buffalo has to offer, the struggles of the city’s most impoverished residents have become nothing more than an unfortunate distraction to business owners, as WIVB News makes clear. As the fourth poorest city in the United States, with more than a quarter of its residents living in poverty, it’s not surprising that there are many homeless people in the area. These people need to be helped, not hidden away from visitors who might cringe at the reality of Buffalo’s economic travails. In 2013, 5,754 people in Erie County were homeless at some point, and 81 percent of that population was located in the
City of Buffalo. Though only a slight – 1.2 percent – increase from 2012, more individuals were in need of housing assistance, according to the Homeless Alliance of Western New York’s annual report. More housing is needed – the report outlines a need for 800 units for the chronically homeless. Charities like the Buffalo City Mission face increased needs, providing 17 percent more overnight stays and 13 percent more meals than the previous year, and requiring a $26 million expansion to its facilities. This is the reality. This is Buffalo. And residents downtown need to accept that. They should realize that charity and compassion, not complaints, is a more productive contribution to Buffalo’s urban environment. Without a doubt, the experience of seeing an emblem of luxury and corporate success contrasted against one of the most extreme examples of poverty and destitution in America is not going to be enjoyable for tourists – or residents – in Buffalo. But it’s the homeless people suffering on the streets of Buffalo who deserve sympathy and assistance, not the residents and visitors who feel uncomfortable passing by. Seeing the plight of the homeless may be unpleasant, but it doesn’t compare to those actually experiencing it. Warfe states that he wants the
ART BY AMBER SLITER
homeless people “moved” – but to where, and to what end? Relocating a problem doesn’t solve the issue, especially when the problem at hand is pervasive, widespread and indicative of poverty on a wider scale. Shipping homeless people from one area of town to another accomplishes nothing. The individuals in question will be homeless, desperate and in need of assistance, even if they’re not downtown. Like many urban areas nationwide, there is a significant homeless population in Buffalo and surrounding areas in Erie Coun-
ty. And like all other cities that are host to people at the lowest points in their lives, Buffalo has a responsibility to help these individuals. High-rise hotels and luxury housing are all lucrative institutions that point toward Buffalo’s ongoing resurgence. But as Buffalo tries to rise above its past and present hardships, the people on the ground, with nowhere else to go, cannot be forgotten and abandoned – any more than they already have. email: editorial@ubspectrum.com
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THE SPECTRUM Friday, October 25, 2014 Volume 64 Number 26 Circulation 7,000
The views expressed – both written and graphic – in the Feedback, Opinion and Perspectives sections of The Spectrum do not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial board. Submit contributions for these pages to The Spectrum office at Suite 132 Student Union or news@ubspectrum.com. The Spectrum reserves the right to edit these pieces for style and length. If a letter is not meant for publication, please mark it as such. All submissions must include the author’s name, daytime phone number, and email address. The Spectrum is represented for national advertising by MediaMate. For information on adverstising with The Spectrum, visit www.ubspectrum.com/advertising or call us directly at (716) 645-2452. The Spectrum offices are located in 132 Student Union, UB North Campus, Buffalo, NY 14260-2100
Cheaters never prosper - but at Letter to the editor UNC they won championships Fake classes gave student-athletes unfair advantage, uneven playing field in the classroom The equilibrium between academics and athletics has long been dogged by uncertainty for the NCAA and its Division I schools, but at the University of North Carolina, the scales balancing school and sports didn’t just tip – they fell over, collapsing in a cloud of dust and disarray. UNC, a well-known Division I powerhouse with a reputation for academic excellence, has been plagued by allegations of academic deception, with scandalous revelations about fake classes and inflated grades for student athletes. Now, the details of the widespread deception, which occurred from 1993 to 2011, intentionally designed to help student athletes remain academically eligible at all costs have come to light. More than 3,000 students took “paper classes” with no faculty supervision or attendance. More than half of the students taking these classes were athletes, assigned to the courses by their academic counselors who knew students could earn inflated grades with minimal work. Currently, no coaches or administrators outside of the department have been implicated, but the school’s entire athletic program is now under fire with this revelation that the university’s athletic success has come at the expense of their student athletes’ educations. It’s important to acknowledge that athletes have a rigorous schedule of multiple practices and workout sessions each day. They have to travel to and from games and are expected to compete at high levels. Although most college students have to balance multiple commitments in addition to their academic schedules, ranging from part-time jobs to extracurricular activities, they nonetheless have their major, grade point average and eventual graduation as their primary focus. But for student-athletes playing for and receiving scholarships from Division I schools,
athletic careers are often prioritized over their academic futures. In and of itself, that’s not necessarily problematic. But there’s no need for an all or nothing perspective. Student-athletes should be just that: students and athletes. It wouldn’t be fair to expect student athletes to achieve stellar grades while also producing spectacular results on the field or in the gym. But it’s equally unjust to lower the standards for these students so far that they no longer have any incentive to pursue a legitimate college education. At Division I schools, where athletics reflect upon the institution’s reputation and success, student athletes carry a heavy burden. They are expected to bring prestige to their schools, to win championships and public approval. That pressure shouldn’t be exacerbated by unreasonably high academic expectations – and there’s nothing excessive about the minimum 2.0 GPA requirement, besides perhaps leniency – but it should be tempered with the reality of the college setting. Athletes at universities are not paid employees, but students on scholarships. Attending class, writing papers and studying for tests has to be part of the picture, not just to maintain the sanctity of the NCAA but also for the sake of the students involved. Student-athletes need advisers and coaches who push them to pursue academic success. It’s unrealistic to expect every overscheduled, stressed out young athlete to turn down the option of an easy A. That task should be relegated to the adults responsible for supervising and guiding these individuals through their college careers, and at UNC, that responsibility was neglected, disrespected and abused. This isn’t about athletes slacking off. It’s about students being denied the opportunity to learn. email: editorial@ubspectrum.com
Dear Editor, We are writing in response to The Spectrum’s editorial “Texas’s misogyny is an undue burden on us all: State’s attempts to limit abortion are deceptive, backwards and fortunately illegal – for now” published on Oct. 17. We would like to thank the Spectrum’s editors for their transparent position on abortion rights – being pro-abortion is an ugly thing, but integrity allows for conversation. The Spectrum’s editorial discusses Texas’ HB2 law. This piece of legislation has been temporarily frozen, allowing 13 of Texas’ abortion clinics to reopen despite their noncompliance with the law. Complaints that HB2 would require clinics to “adhere to exceedingly strict medical standards” were strongly voiced in this editorial. But are these standards really so excessive and unfair? Let’s read the bill and find out. Section 4 of HB2 requires that “the minimum standards for an abortion facility must be equivalent to the minimum standards adopted under Section 243.010 [of separate document, “Health and Safety Code”] for ambulatory surgical centers.” So far, so good; after all, abortion is classified as a surgery, and many women suffer reproductive complications, injuries, and even death after botched abortions (Google Jennifer Leigh Morbelli or Tonya Reaves). Let’s now turn to the Health and Safety Code and read what exactly these minimum standards require. Section 242.010(a) puts forth five minimum standards to which all ambulatory surgical centers must comply in order to legally operate. We will quote them here, and determine whether they are “excessive” or not as we go. The first standard put forth by the Health and Safety Code requires all ambulatory surgical centers to make sure the “construction and design, including plumbing, heating, lighting and ventilation” of their building “ensure the health and safety of patients.” Pretty minimal. Let’s read on. The second standard requires that all professional staff and other personnel are qualified (note: the Texas Board of Health is not responsible for deciding what these qualifications entail).
The third requires that the center contain all equipment essential to the health and welfare of its patients. Again, this is basic. The fourth standard states that “the sanitary and hygienic conditions within the center and its surroundings” must meet the minimum standards of the Texas Board of Health. We’d hope this would be obvious. Let’s continue. The fifth standard requires that all centers provide a “quality assurance program for patient care.” Part B of the Health and Safety Code states that none of Texas’ minimum standards for ambulatory surgical centers may exceed those put forth by Title XVIII of the Social Security Act. Part C states that centers may not “permit a person to provide health care services who is not authorized to provide those services under another state law.” Now that we’ve done our research, let’s decide whether these minimum standards are “excessive.” First, consider the history of abortion. The reason many citizens were against back alley abortions is because they were worried about the health of women. They worried that a woman who found herself in a crisis pregnancy situation would turn to a “doctor” with zero medical standards who would hurt or even kill her in her desperation for an abortion. So our country legalized abortion, in the hope that it would become safer – that is, cleaner, more regulated, and performed by licensed professionals. HB2 simply asks abortionists to adhere to minimum medical standards. Since Texas’ abortionists are refusing to uphold these minimum medical standards, they are clearly admitting that all legal abortion has done is move abortions from the back alley to the clinic. It is ludicrous for abortionists to say, “We’re not going to update our standards because we care about women.” If they cared about women, why are minimum health and safety standards a problem for the 13 facilities that have not complied with Texas’s HB2 law? Why are we making access to abortions a priority over the health and safety of women at these abortionproviding facilities?
SEE LETTER TO THE EDITOR, PAGE 4
ubspectrum.com
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Friday, October 24, 2014
Shep Gordon: Supermensch Legendary talent manager and UB Alumn shows film documenting his life
Tyler Bauer (left), a graduate student in Alumni Relations, and Dennis Black (right), the vice president of Student Affairs, moderated a question and answer session with Shep Gordon (center), following a screening of a film about his life entitled, “Supermensch: The Legend of Shep Gordon.” YUSONG SHI, THE SPECTRUM
JORDAN OSCAR
SENIOR ARTS EDITOR
When Alice Cooper notoriously threw a live chicken into the audience at the Toronto Rock ‘n’ Roll Revival Festival in 1969, Shep Gordon was the one who brought the chicken. The audience tore the chicken to shreds, bloodying a small portion of the crowd before they threw the carcass back on stage. This was one of the first outrageous incidents that shot Cooper to stardom – a stardom that might not have been possible without his manager of more than 43 years, Supermensch Shep Gordon. Sex, drugs and rock’n’roll are three things Gordon didn’t shy away from for most of his career, which started when Janis Joplin punched him in the face outside of the Landmark Motel in Hollywood in 1968. Gordon thought someone was being raped and Joplin punched him in the midst of intercourse with legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix. He didn’t know who they were until the next morning. “They made it sound worse than it was … It was the start of my life; the start of my journey,” Gordon said in an interview with The Spectrum. “If that wouldn’t have happened, I never would have wound up with Alice.” The many stories and escapades of Gordon’s life are the surface level subject of a documentary, Supermensch: The Legend of Shep Gordon. Directed by Mike Myers – of Austin Powers and Waynes World fame – the film is more a testament to the beloved manager, agent and producer’s infallible character than it is the story of his seemingly outrageous lifestyle. The film was screened Thursday afternoon in the Student Union Theater along with the three winning videos of a student film contest. A question and answer session with Gordon followed the screening. Gordon was always the man
behind the scenes, helping the talent he managed and people he met rise to fame, often times through outlandish and “radical” stunts like Teddy Pendergrass’ women only concerts or a failed attempt to shoot Cooper out of a cannon. “He’s the most famous nonfamous person in Hollywood,” said Eric Beback, a senior marketing major. Bryan Murphy, a junior media studies major, who won first place in the film contest for his film, : A Love Story, agreed with Beback. “It’s like an indirect star struck,” Murphy said after meeting Gordon. “He’s the guy behind the scenes. He’s the one who made it all happen, while everyone else is up front.” Beneath all the escapades, the stories of hanging out in the Playboy mansion or the outlandish stunts Gordon helped pull off to shoot his clients to fame, the film highlights Gordon’s character as a man of immense honesty, integrity and friendliness – the Yiddish word mensch. It’s is full of testimonials from Cooper, Mike Myers, Sylvester Stallone, Steven Tyler, Emeril Lagasse and many others. Myers described Gordon as “the nicest guy he has ever met, hands down.” Gordon ties much of his success in life to his time at UB. He graduated in 1968 with a Bachelor’s in sociology before heading to Hollywood. Within 24 hours of getting there, he befriended Jimmy Hendrix and Janis Joplin, and began his career as a “manager,” which was initially a front for the money he was making selling drugs. “I always felt like [coming to Buffalo] was the start of my life,” Gordon said. “Coming to Buffalo was the start of my journey. It gave me the freedom to be unstructured … to win or lose on your own terms … It trained me on how to live.” UB helped teach him the importance of equality and accept-
ing every opportunity that came his way. He lived the life of “animal house before Animal House.” He loved the freedom school offered him in “a time without consequences.” Gordon remembers taking three different classes called, Something, Nothing and Anything. Something required him to bring a record to class, Nothing required no supplies or effort – students did nothing in class – and Anything required bringing more than one record. It was at UB that Gordon realized he could “write history and didn’t have to wait for it” – something he says he has done for most of his life. During the Q&A Gordon told a story about how he and his friends invented a fake head of an oil-rich African country, named after the sex organ of a fern. His friend went to the United Nations in New York City and telegrammed The Buffalo Evening News and mayor’s office that the city would be the first to be visited by the head of the oil-rich country because Buffalo had just opened an international airport. The letter asked if they would make an official state visit. The next morning, the story was the on the front page of the paper, he said. His friend flew to Buffalo with a pillowcase and sheet draped around him as a turban. Gordon and his friends called various places complaining that the city was allowing an “anti-Semitic” figurehead to come here. When Gordon and his friends arrived at the airport, there were a thousand of protestors who rushed the plane to get rid of the fake anti-Semitic leader of a fake oil-rich African nation. The story caused quite the scandal, but it was the first time that he unconsciously realized he could make history and didn’t have to wait for it. “If you watch the movie that has become my career,” Gordon said. “It’s creating history, making events that become historical, but manufacturing them to a
point … it’s one of the few stories I can tell that’s legal.” Even after years of being surrounded by celebrities, Gordon describes his time at UB as the best days of his life. He relishes a time when he was able to make honest friendships. “You’re all lucky to have that ahead of you; to make relationships that will last your whole life that are out of friendship and not need,” Gordon said to the audience during the Q&A. Murphy was among the many audience members that found his honesty revealing of his true character. “He’s willing to open up to you and tell you stuff you can’t imagine someone wanting to tell you,” Murphy said. “That just shows his true character and his honesty” The student filmmaker was also impressed that Gordon was able to remain true to himself and his character after being surrounded by the rich and famous for much of his life. He was particularly inspired by Gordon’s remarks on fighting past rejection. “Each rejection is one rejection closer to acceptance,” Gordon said. Gordon said he has seen people fight through rejection for years before seeing their projects get green lit. Murphy said having someone like Gordon make an impact on his life as a student decades after Gordon left campus is an incentive to give back to UB once he and others find success of their own. Through Supermensch: The Legend of Shep Gordon audience members were allowed to see the alum’s life of dancing around the spotlight of fame and finding success through putting others in it. His honesty, integrity and willingness to help others may have left audience members feeling like we could all be supermensches. We just have to write our own history. email: arts@ubspectrum.com
Continued from letter to the editor, page 3 If we deem access to abortion a higher priority than the safety of women seeking it, then we are merely creating legal back alley abortions. The location of the “procedure,” inside four walls or between two buildings, does not change the squalor in which it is performed. Texas’s law aims to lift abortion standards from those of the alleyway to those of basic surgeries. It is not the fault of the lawmakers that these 13 abortion facilities have closed. This result has come from the choices made by the clinics themselves. Put simply, the abortionists have either decided that providing access to abortions is not worth the expense of updating their clinics (in which case, it’s about the money, not women) or they have found it too difficult to maintain the most basic standards asked of ambulatory surgical centers nationwide (in which case, we should be horrified). To sympathize with either of these excuses is unquestionably pro-abortion and for big business abortionists. It is not prochoice, and it is certainly not pro-woman. Our advice to you is this: take umbrage with the utter failure of the staff of the 13 clinics in question, not lawmakers. And we urge you to take note of the fact that a “clean abortion” is an inherent contradiction. Abortion kills a pre-born child and therefore will always mean violent death. Abortionists will always have blood on their hands. The stale clamor for “safe and legal” abortions ignores the truth that evil cannot be made safe. It can only become shaded and more sinister because it is hidden. A few weeks ago, we wrote a letter to the editor explaining to readers what, exactly, abortion is, and who, exactly, it targets. The letter can be found on The Spectrum’s website, and we encourage editors and students to read it. We urge all Spectrum editors and all students to read pieces of legislation before passing judgment on them. Texas’ HB2 law can be found at the online database of the state’s legislature, and the Texas’ Health and Safety Code is available on the state’s database of statutes. More importantly, readers should watch a filmed surgical abortion before deciding that it is, in any sense of the word, “safe.” Knowing what you support may change your mind. You may view one here: http:// www.herestheblood.com/. Sincerely,
UB Students for Life Board Anne Mulrooney, President Christine Schaefer, Vice President, Matt Ramsey, Treasurer, Jessica Mershimer, Secretary Cristina Lauria, Marketing Director
ubspectrum.com
Friday, October 24, 2014
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Rebuilding UB
The Spectrum breaks down some on-campus construction projects SAMAYA ABDUS-SALAAM ASST. NEWS EDITOR
Caution tape and “MEN WORKING” signs have dotted students’ routes to classes since the start of the semester. Students have often been greeted by construction workers near the Center for the Arts’ main entrance or a gaping hole outside Talbert Hall. Some construction sites this semester include: The Center for the Arts, Hayes Hall, Clark Hall, the top of Capen Hall and outside of Talbert Hall. Kevin Thompson, director of Facilities Planning and Design, said UB spends between $12 and $25 million per year on repairs. The Spectrum had an interview with Thompson to get a rundown of the biggest projects on North and South Campus. Currently, there are 30-40 construction and renovation projects on all of UB’s campuses. Center for the Arts The Center for the Arts (CFA) is undergoing renovations after parts of the building have deteriorated after more than 20 years of existence. The building’s renovations cost $1.4 million. The construction is focused on the building’s perimeter, fixing water infiltration issues and salt erosion on the north side staircase. Thompson said addressing the building’s faults is broken down into two phases, and the current construction is only phase one. Phase two includes replacing the skylights in the atrium, but that project will be completed in the next two years. Thompson said construction on the CFA began over the summer, so students would be less disturbed during class time. Ann Mangan, an academic adviser in the media study department, was working in the CFA during the summer when the construction started. Mangan said the jackhammering of construction made the CFA walls shake, but she said the severity of the construction’s disturbances decreased once the fall semester began. Hayes Hall Hayes Hall, used for UB’s School of Architecture, has been “gutted” out and will be completely rebuilt, Thompson said. The total project cost $25 million and should be completed in the fall of 2015. The project started a year and a half ago with plans to redo the interior of the building. The renovations of Hayes Hall are a part of UB 2020, which is UB’s comprehensive plan to create a university that is “sharper in both focus and physical appearance and stronger academically,” according to the UB 2020 Initiative website.
Buffalo Materials Research Center The Buffalo Materials Research Center, located outside of Clark Hall, is being demolished. Thompson said the building is no longer needed and a grass field will be laid in its place. From 1960-94, the Buffalo Materials Research Center was used to house a nuclear reactor, but hasn’t been used for research since 1994. In 2005, all radioactive waste was removed from the building, starting the demolition process. The contaminated materials that are still in the building will be removed and transported off campus, according to a UB press release. Capen Hall Capen Hall is being repaired because the mortar in between the bricks of the building is loosening, according to Thompson. The cost of mortar restoration is included in the $25 million spent per year on repairs. Construction workers, like those currently working on Capen, are generally under a contract not affiliated with the university. Thompson said construction during the semester is normal. The construction season in Buffalo is short due to Buffalo’s temperamental weather. Some projects have to be completed during the summer, like renovating dorms and classrooms, because these are the projects that affect students directly the most, according to Thompson. Some repairs, however, are supposed to be completed during the summer months but end up not being able to be finished on time. Talbert Hall Thompson said there is currently a sidewalk restoration project outside of Talbert Hall. He said sidewalk restoration projects take up a “significant” portion of the $25 million spent per year on repairs, because they take up a large surface area. Arthan Robinson, a freshman biomedical engineering major, said he is tired of walking around the construction area to get to class because it is “extra work.” Robinson said he would rather have construction take place at night, over the summer or during the winter, when regular classes aren’t in session, and there should be a pathway made for students. The hole makes getting to class and catching the bus to South Campus, where he lives, more difficult. Thompson said sidewalk repairs are common on UB’s campuses. These maintenances, however, usually take place over the summer, but it is also normal for them to take place in the fall. email: news@ubspectrum.com
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Continued from attendence, page 8 White’s right – partially. When you watch ESPN, CBS, Fox Sports, you see crowds of 7,000-plus students. You are seeing stadiums filled with anywhere from 30,000-100,000 fans. But what else are you seeing? NFL talent. And lots of it. Students attend schools like Alabama, Texas, Notre Dame, even Syracuse, for this game day environment. Students aren’t coming to UB for football games. They are coming for an education, and a much cheaper one than any of these schools listed above. Last season, the Bulls were filled with players with NFL talent. Khalil Mack and Branden Oliver, both members of last year’s Buffalo team, squared off against each other in NFL a couple weeks ago. How often does this happen at a school like UB? And I’m not trying to say this is Buffalo’s fault. The fact is the Bulls play in the Mid-American Conference. Yes, it’s a competitive league and quite frankly, an entertaining one to watch if you like scoring, but its biggest problem is the inconsistency of the schools. If a MAC school finds a good coach, he’ll likely leave to a better paying job. The teams get players who are overlooked. Both Mack and Oliver accepted the only Division-I scholarship they were offered. They just happened to be two of the most talented and hardest working players in the country. This doesn’t happen often. And in case you didn’t notice, Mr. White, attendance is down all over the country. Student attendance at college football games is down 7.1 percent since 2009, according to a Wall Street Journal article. This is partially due to raising ticket cost and the fact that more games are on TV. Buffalo students don’t have to worry about the cost of games, being that undergraduates attend for free with a student ID. But Buffalo just signed a new TV
deal that airs every game on one of the ESPN channels. This is a blessing and a curse. It allows fans and alumni all over the country to watch the Bulls from the comfort of home, but it also allows those living on South Campus, in the dorms and Downtown Buffalo to do the same. But I see you are open to suggestions, Mr. White. I have a few for you. Keep the tailgate concerts and Party at the Point going. Although they may not be the numbers you’d like to see, imagine how little fans would show up without these events. Incorporate Baird Point more. Being on the grass is much more fun than cement. Bring in real teams for students to see play. I understand this could be easier said than done, but if UB had a homeand-home with Baylor, there’s no reason Buffalo should be hosting two FCS schools in a season. The free ear warmers for Friday’s game are getting on the right track. Now keep the promotions free. The blackout was a great idea, so do something like that again, but give away T-shirts. Students like free stuff. If you don’t believe me, then look in my closet. Sell alcohol in the stadium. This seems like the simplest and easiest one to me, especially with how many other schools are currently doing so. Students may not spend $12 on a T-shirt, but I promise they will spend $5 on a beer to keep their buzz going from the parking lot to the stadium. And I mean this is the most obvious, but it still has to be mentioned. As Al Davis said, “Just win baby, win.” Actions speak louder than words. Students don’t need promises about the future. A free shirt on their back, beer in their hand and a victory on the field will be just fine. email: owen.obrien@ubspectrum.cm
LIBERTY YELLOW
Not so tricky treats UB’s Trick or Eat food drive provides local families with much-needed food
Students who participate in Trick or Eat go door-to-door collect non-perishable food items for food pantries in Western New York. Last year, students collected more than 1,400 pounds of food. COURTESY OF JENNIFER JERUSSI
DEVASHISH AGARWAL
STAFF WRITER
In addition to seeing a 4-foot-tall goblin this Halloween, you may see a 20-year-old college student asking for nonperishable food. UB’s Center for Student Leadership and Community Engagement (CSLCE) organizes a Trick or Eat drive each Halloween. Student volunteers go trick-or-treating through local communities to collect non-perishable foods for the Food Bank of Western New York. “UB has collectively donated several thousand pounds of food every year,” said Polla Milligan, the grant writer and food drive coordinator of the Food Bank of WNY. “Trick or Eat single-handedly raises more than 1,000 pounds of food every year.” The Food Bank of Western New York is one of the 200 food banks across the country and one of eight in New York. It caters to the Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie and Niagara Counties and operates through its 330 member agencies, which include soup kitchens, shelters and food pantries. According to Jennifer Jerussi, a graduate student in higher education and graduate intern for the leadership center, 57 people participated in last year’s event and raised approximately 1,440 pounds of food. “This year we hope to have 100 students participate and collect an even greater amount of food,” Jerussi said. A truck will be parked on campus this Halloween and students and local community members can drop off canned goods. A food barrel will also be placed in SU 350 until Thanksgiving where students
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can drop off nonperishable foods. After the Food Bank receives the food, a group of volunteers go through each item and check expiration dates and health implications to ensure they are fit for distribution and consumption. Then, the food is stored and used to feed more than 100,000 people, according to Milligan. Alexandra Van Hall, a junior chemistry major, has been participating in Trick or Eat every year since her freshman year at UB. She said Trick or Eat is a creative way to help the community. “It’s a fun way to turn a holiday into a chance to give back,” Hall said. “When I see the truck full of canned goods at the end of the night, it makes it clear what we’ve accomplished.” This year, Patricia Johnson, a junior chemistry major, will take part in her third Trick or Eat event. Johnson, who works as an undergraduate science mentor with the Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Partnership (ISEP) at Riverside High School, sees unprivileged children who do not get enough to eat every day. “Hunger prevents them from focusing in class and having a good attitude toward school,” Johnson said. “Hunger is a real problem, not only in distant countries, but also in Buffalo.” Makenzie Depetrillo, a freshman psychology major, plans on participating in Trick or Eat for the first time this year. “Halloween is my favorite holiday,” DePetrillo said. “Trick or Eat gives me a chance to make people as happy as I am on Halloween.” Students can sign up to participate in Trick or Eat by visiting the CSLCE. Check in for the event begins at 4 p.m. in the Student Union Lobby. email: features@ubspectrum.com
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DAILY DELIGHTS sponsored by Collegiate Village Apartments Crossword of the Day Wednesday, October 24 2014 FROM UNIVERSAL UCLICK
HOROSCOPES
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Don’t let anyone bully you. Stay calm and collect your thoughts. Taking a short trip or doing something you enjoy will ease tension. A serious matter concerning an older family member is best dealt with cautiously. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Don’t neglect minor health issues. Matters that concern a pet must not be left unattended. You will pick up interesting information if you ask questions, do research or sign up for a seminar. Don’t fold under pressure. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Plan to get out and take part in activities that are work-related. If you are fun to be with, everyone will want to spend time with you. Making positive changes at home will boost your morale and your relationship with loved ones. CANCER (June 21-July 22): Take a pass if someone pushes you in an undesirable direction. Trouble will develop if you get into a deep discussion with someone who doesn’t feel the same way you do about religion, politics or other issues. Focus on fun, not debate. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Step into the spotlight and make it count. Talk about your concerns, desires and intentions, and you’ll be surprised how many people support your efforts. Travel, communication and partnerships will lead to prosperous deals. Love is on the rise. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You’ll have lots to think about. Look at your community and the people you are surrounded by and you will recognize the problems and the solutions required to make life better. Encourage change, but refrain from being pushy. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You will intrigue the people you encounter if you share your thoughts, experience and wisdom. Don’t shy away from an opportunity to have a conversation with someone you admire. Your thoughts will be appreciated and a friendship will develop. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Be cautious of anyone who is too complimentary. Ulterior motives are present, and you must protect your reputation and your assets. Secret information is being withheld, making it impossible for you to make a well-informed decision. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Don’t be fooled by appearances. Be cautious when sharing information. You don’t want anyone to take over or take credit for something that belongs to you. Love is in the stars, and positive change at home will lift your spirits. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You may think you have everything under control, but before you jump to conclusions, do your homework. Not everyone will be upfront and honest with you, leaving you in an awkward and costly position. Cover your tracks. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Make things happen and you will leave a lasting impression. You will be offered an opportunity that is too good to ignore. A partnership will undergo a shift, but in the end it will bring you closer together. Put time aside for romance. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Someone will surprise you or offer a gift or proposal you cannot refuse. Let your intuition guide you and you will find a way to please others as well as yourself. Don’t expect everyone to be pleased with your choices.
Edited by Timothy E. Parker October 24, 2014 STUNNED By Kenneth Holt
ACROSS 1 Jason’s wife, in myth 6 Catamaran feature 10 Imitated a bird 14 Some kind of a nut 15 Very small 16 Hip bones 17 Away 18 Ingresses 20 Unprepared tourist’s surprise 22 Its pH is higher than 7 25 Certain snake 26 Two-finger sign 27 “Them” 28 Street-smart 31 That is, in Latin 33 Sicilian erupter 35 Second-sequel indicator 36 “___ you sure?” 37 How some knockouts occur 43 Before, of yore 44 What U sometimes means 45 Act like a sot 46 Conceded easy score 49 Walk heavily 51 One of the Bobbsey twins 52 Khan’s title 53 ___ Heels (North Carolina team) 55 Failures come to this 57 “Go ahead, make my day” movie 61 Lice and the like
62 Toys with tails 66 Author Bagnold 67 Diamond and Abner 68 Dangerous bacteria 69 Nuclear-plant measurements 70 Dundee denizen 71 Aquariums
DOWN 1 Sixth-day creation 2 Prefix with “system” 3 “i” lid 4 “All My Children” vixen 5 Negates 6 “It’s OK after all” in editing 7 Japanese aborigine 8 Where work accumulates, for many 9 Harps’ kin, of yore 10 Hyperbolic function 11 Recess or small room 12 Auntie’s daughters 13 O-ring, e.g. 19 Have an ambitious plan 21 Make a contact 22 Not many 23 French novelist Pierre 24 Daily Planet reporter 29 Caesar’s seven 30 LPs and 45s 32 Balance-sheet item 34 “Excuse me ... “ 36 Certain grad 38 Ridges
on ranges 39 Melted caramel, e.g. 40 Word with “Island” or “division” 41 Brightly colored fish 42 “What ___ wrong?” 46 Open-mouthed one 47 Arboreal lizard 48 Prado site 49 Book or movie reviewer 50 Single serving, like sugar 54 Indigoyielding shrubs 56 Central New York city 58 Male parents 59 Dramatic introduction? 60 “Hey, over here!” 63 Couple thousand pounds 64 Reindeer’s kin 65 A sib
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Friday, October 24, 2014 ubspectrum.com
SPORTS
Moving forward JORDAN GROSSMAN
ASST. SPORTS EDITOR
The players on the Buffalo football team received a pep talk this past Monday. Only it didn’t come from a member of the Bulls’ coaching staff. It didn’t even come from someone present in the team meeting room. It came, over Skype, from former USC interim coach Ed Orgeron. After former head coach Jeff Quinn’s termination Oct. 13, interim head coach Alex Wood asked his former coaching colleague to speak to the Bulls about dealing with a coaching change midseason. “The players seemed to appreciate what he had to say,” Wood said. “His message was spot on about working together and cultivating relationships with one another. It’s a new start. It gives you new life about what can happen.” USC went 6-2 after former head coach Lane Kiffin was fired and Orgeron become interim head coach. The football team hopes for a similar turnaround when it takes the field for the first game since Quinn’s firing this Saturday. The Bulls (3-4, 1-2 Mid-American Conference) attempt to look past the events that transpired almost two weeks ago when they host Central Michigan (4-4, 2-2 MAC) Saturday. It will be Wood’s first game as interim head coach. The team has been focusing on its defense during the bye week. The ‘D’ has been one of the Bulls’ biggest issues this season. Buffalo is allowing 35 points a game and has surrendered either 300 passing yards or 200 rushing yards in five of seven games. The Bulls gave up 37 points and 337 rushing yards to Eastern Michigan (3-5, 1-2 MAC) – the lowest-ranked offense in the MAC – in their last game. “Are we the same football team [as last year]? No,” Wood said. “But we have some
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Bulls prepare for first game after the firing of head coach
COURTESY OF STEVE JESSMORE, CMU UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS
Senior wide receiver Titus Davis leads the Chippewas in catches (31), receiving yards (502) and receiving touchdowns (4). Buffalo plays Central Michigan this Saturday at home in the first game under interim head coach Alex Wood.
quality players on defense and they’re going to show up on Saturday.” Several Buffalo defenders are having quality seasons. Senior safety Adam Redden leads the team tackles for loss (8.5) and sacks (three). He is also second on the team in total tackles (45). Senior linebacker Lee Skinner leads the team with 52 tackles. Skinner, Redden and the rest of the defense will focus on the Chippewas’ elusive senior running back, Thomas Rawls. Rawls ranks fifth in the nation with 1,007 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in just six games this season. He transferred from Michigan University in January. Rawls was suspended for Central’s Michigan’s game against Syracuse Sept. 13 due to a misdemeanor larceny charge stemming from an April 8 incident. Raw-
ls was reinstated after pleading guilty and was sentenced to one-year probation Tuesday. “[Rawls] is a physical guy, relentless runner and has great vision,” Wood said. “He’s able to press the line of scrimmage. He’s a big-time running back and he plays that way.” The Bulls have their own ‘big-time’ running back in junior Anthone Taylor. Taylor has run for 569 yards and six touchdowns in his last three games and ranks 10th in the nation in rushing yards (926). Taylor suffered a minor knee injury in the fourth quarter of Buffalo’s loss against the Eagles. Wood said Taylor will play Saturday. Junior running back Devin Campbell may be Taylor’s primary backup again, as
PREDICTIONS: Central Michigan
@ANDYKONIUCH
(7-0): Buffalo
(6-1): Buffalo I expect UB to bounce back to not only keep it close, but win. There’s so much inconsistency in the MAC this season. I’ll take the Bulls at home.
Are the players motivated under coach Wood or are they looking to get this season over with? I can’t say for sure. We’ll find out Saturday.
(5-2): Central Michigan
TOM DINKI
SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR
The Bulls (2-4, 1-2 Mid-American Conference) play their first game since the firing of head coach Jeff Quinn Oct. 13. Buffalo’s first test under interim head coach Alex Wood is Central Michigan (3-3, 2-2 MAC), the team with the No. 1 defense in the MAC, Saturday. If Buffalo plans to make a second half surge this season, its offense will have to overcome the stout Chippewas’ defense. The Bulls’ defense will have to contain Central Michigan’s balanced offensive attack. Here are some players and matchups to watch out for in Saturday’s game. Thomas Rawls, senior running backs After gaining just 333 rushing yards and five touchdowns in three seasons with Michigan, Rawls has ran for 1,007 yards and 10 touchdowns in six games with the Chippewas. Rawls transferred to Cen-
Bulls’ defense has consistently given up big passing plays all season. Tony Annese, sophomore defensive back Buffalo junior quarterback Joe Licata has already thrown seven inceptions this season after throwing just eight all of last season. Licata should be wary of throwing in the direction of Annese, who has the most interceptions (three) on a defense with the most picks in the MAC. Annese also leads the Chippewas in pass deflections (seven) this season. Matchup to watch: Chippewas’ pass defense vs. Buffalo’s pass offense Buffalo is third in the MAC in pass offense. Central Michigan is first in pass defense. The game may come down to the Bulls’ ability to continue their success in the passing game against a stout Chippewas’ secondary. Licata, who has thrown three inceptions in his past two games, will have to cut down on his mistakes against a ball-hawking Central Michigan defense. Licata and his receivers must perform better Saturday than they did in last week’s game against Eastern Michigan, in which they failed to move the ball effectively the first three quarters. email: sports@ubspectrum.com
@JORDANMGROSSMAN
(6-1): Buffalo
All hope is lost. The Bulls lost to Eastern Michigan by 10. I don’t see this team accomplishing anything anytime soon.
Catching Central Michigan: The Spectrum’s Scouting Report tral Michigan in January and has made an instant impact in his first season at the school. Rawls looks to take advantage of a Buffalo run defense that allowed 337 rushing yards to Eastern Michigan in its last game. Rawls may have less distractions Saturday, now that his misdemeanor larceny charges are settled. Rawls was sentenced to one-year probation Tuesday for an April 8 incident, for which he was suspended one game. Cooper Rush, sophomore quarterback After throwing 15 touchdowns and 15 interceptions as a freshman, Rush has improved in his second season as a starter. He has already thrown for 13 touchdowns and has only tossed six picks so far this season. Rush has also increased his completion percentage to 64.1 percent this season, after completing 56.7 percent of his passes in 2013. Rush leads a passing offense that averages 218 yards per game. After Rush failed to throw for more than 200 yards in the Chippewas’ first four games, Rush has passed for at least 233 yards in Central Michigan’s last four contests. The sophomore quarterback has a completed a pass of at least 29 yards in each game this season. Rush looks to continue making big plays down field against Buffalo Saturday, as the
JORDAN GROSSMAN
ANDY KONIUCH
@TOMDINKI
@OWENOBRI
email: sports@ubspectrum.com
(-5.5) vs. Buffalo
TOM DINKI
OWEN O’BRIEN
sophomore running back Jordan Johnson is still day-to-day and will be a game-time decision. Johnson has been out since Buffalo’s 36-7 win over Norfolk State Sept. 20. Despite the shortcomings of the their defense, the Bulls’ offense has been consistent all season. Buffalo averages nearly 476 yards and 33 points per game – both good for third in the MAC. The offense leads the conference in time of possession, averaging more than 34 minutes per game. The team missed several scoring opportunities last week, however, as the Bulls came away with just one touchdown and two field goals in six redone trips against Eastern Michigan. “The points have to equate to the time of possession,” Wood said. “If we have the ball for 34 minutes, we have to score points and we’ve missed opportunities to score [in the past].” The Chippewas rank No. 1 in the MAC for pass and total defense. Central Michigan leads the conference with nine interceptions and allows 203 yards through the air per game. But the Chippewas have generated just 10 sacks. “They have a solid defense with some good defensive personnel,” Wood said. “They play hard. [But] they are not a pressure team. They bring some form of pressure, but they rely a lot on zone coverage. But I think our offense matches up well against them.” Wood is confident Buffalo will not be distracted by the coaching change in its first game after Quinn’s firing. “These guys are high-character gentlemen,” Wood said. “I have the utmost confidence in these guys and we’re going to make it go.” Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. The Zac Brown Tribute Band will perform a free concert as part of the UB Tailgate Series two hours prior to kickoff Saturday.
It’s a new start for the Bulls. Their season isn’t over yet. Taylor comes back to form and Licata throws over 300 yards.
Give ‘em a reason
Bulls fans deserve more incentive for coming to games
OWEN O’BRIEN
MANAGING EDITOR
Rule number one in business: The customer is always right. There’s a reason the student section looked more barren in Buffalo’s homecoming game against Miami Ohio than it did against Baylor. More than 7,000 students attended the Bulls’ Friday night ESPN game against nationally ranked Baylor Sept. 12. The atmosphere was electric. The student parking lot was filled with alcohol, solo cups, food and folding tables. Music was blasting by DJ Anthony and students who decided to be their own DJ. Trash covered the parking lot. In short, it looked like a college football game should. Buffalo lost by 41 points, but come on, no one who attended the game expected any different. Now, let’s look at the week be-
fore and after. Roughly 7,000 students attended both of these games combined. These Saturday afternoon games had a much different feel than the Friday. And UB actually won these two games. Why the drastic change in attendance? The reason is simple. Nobody heard of the teams UB was playing. Duquesne? Norfolk State? These schools don’t quite have the same name appeal as Baylor. So when the Bulls hosted Miami Ohio a week after the Norfolk State game, why was a sudden numbers boost expected? Because it was “homecoming?” Did people even care about homecoming in high school? If so, it was only for the excuse to binge drink underage. College students don’t need a football game to do this. After a series of appreciatory tweets from Athletic Director Danny White to members of the community, he had a change of tune for the students following Buffalo’s 35-27 victory over Miami Ohio. “Gotta get student turnout to be more consistent. Open to suggestions @UBTrueBlue game day atmosphere starts & stops with the students!” White tweeted Sept. 27 at 11:50 p.m. – a few hours after the end of the game. SEE ATTENDENCE, PAGE 6