volume 62 issue 3
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Volume 62 Issue 3TRANSCRIPT
Maggie [email protected]
The University of West Georgia’s Student Government Association, in cooperation with Carroll County and Carrollton, will replace 75 to 80 street signs on Maple Street with signs printed in UWG colors with a college logo. Carroll County agreed to pay for the signs, “approximately $45 per sign,” and the labor and hardware costs would be Carrollton’s, said Sean Lindo, secretary of student life. Lindo said they might also be able to “print [larger signs for the intersections]”—12 to 16 extra signs—but that it
would ultimately be up to the county. “The bottom line is that they are street signs, so it’s just a necessity for the road. So, if they’re going to put street signs up, they might as well put fancy, wolf signs up,” said David Bachman, partner in the initiative. Lindo and Bachman, co-initiators, proposed the idea to County Commissioner Bill Chappell and Carrollton City
manager Casey Coleman Jan. 12. After an approval letter from UWG President Sethna, they had an official go-ahead on Jan. 22. “Everything seems to be going smoothly so far and we’re just trying to do all the right things to get it done sooner than later because it’s really going to enhance the University’s visibility […] It’s really nice that the elected officials value the university
like they do and are willing to help out,” said Bachman. While the original plan was to have the signs in place before fall 2010, the rapid movement will push installment up significantly, said Lindo. No date has been set. Lindo and Bachman separately approached SGA president Alan Webster over
Corryn FraserNews [email protected]
The College of Arts and Sciences expects to award students $5,000 in grants this spring. The new Undergraduate Student Professional Development Grant Program, only offered to art and science majors, is available for students in need of extra cash for school purposes including projects and educational needs. The USPD grant money will be divided based on both the number of applicants and the amount of money requested. Applications for spring semester are due by Friday, Feb. 5. “The grant itself is called Professional Development because we want to emphasis helping students do just that,” said Shawn Isaacs, a member of the Student Advisory Committee representing the Mass Communications department. “Depending on how the application process goes, students will get the money they
need.” With help from the USPD Grant, art and science majors can request money for expenses including travel expenses to conferences, developing research papers and purchasing new equipment and supplies for building a portfolio. The grant is not limited to individuals, but is also available for groups and organizations. Groups such as the Film Society can turn in an application requesting funds for a new camcorder or the theatre fraternity Alpha Psi Omega can request money for a philanthropy project. The Student Advisory Committee is responsible for overseeing the fund. The committee consists of a panel of elected students from the art and science departments. They are responsible for representing the student body and for relaying information to and from the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, George Kieh. The S A Comittee will have the final say
West GeorgianWednesday, January 27, 2010 Volume 62 - Issue 3 www.thewestgeorgian.com
If you see news happening, have a news tip, or want to advertise in The West Georgian, e-mail us at [email protected] or call us at 678-839-6527.
H1N1 update-Page 2
Haitian Relief-Page 5
Artist Talk at Gallery-Page 7
Weekly Weather Forecast
INSIDE THIS ISSUECampus News
Sports
Opinion
Arts & Entertainment
Thursday
Today
Friday
Saturday Sunday
Low 50’s
Mostly Sunny, High 51
Mid 40’s Mid 40’s
Low 50s
The
A Public Forum Representing the Student Body of the University of West Georgia
Basketball-Page 4
Photo by Terence Rushin
File Photo
File photo
Photo by Bernard Upshaw
SGA, county, city to deliver street signs
See Signs Page 3
Arts and sciences grants now available
See Grant Page 3
Haitian benefit concert
Graphic provided by Office of University Communications and Marketing
See Haiti Page 3
Samantha GodwinStaff [email protected]
Faculty, staff and student organizations joined forces after a devastating earthquake stuck Haiti on Jan. 12. Within a
week, the university had already established an Earthquake Relief Fund that enabled students to make contributions to help Haitian victims. Vicky Hardin, a Career Services employee,
Krystal HorneStaff [email protected]
It’s no surprise that the University of West Georgia has experienced some major growth over the past several years. What might come as a surprise is the amount of growth. A key development in the university’s advancement is enrollment increasement. Each semester, UWG continues to establish unprecedented enrollment records. “When I came to West Georgia in 1994, there were fewer than 8,000 students, now we have approximately 11,500 here at UWG,” said UWG president, Dr. Beheruz Sethna. Once known as West Georgia College, one significant change at UWG is that of its name. “Since I came here in 2000, we’ve changed our name from the State University of
West Georgia to the University of West Georgia,” said Dr. Melanie McClellan, dean of students and vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. “Plus, we’ve also celebrated our 100-year anniversary.” Another area where the university has excelled is in its pursuit of academic distinction, including its quality. In the last eight of twelve years, UWG has dominated the national field in undergraduate research and as the university grows, the quality is increasing. “When I came to West Georgia in 1994, 51 percent of full-time freshman had deficiencies and needed remedial education,” says Sethna, “Today that number is at about 0.5 percent.” Another noticeable transformation to the university is its facilities. “I’m excited, delighted, and very pleased about
the newest additions to the campus,” said Sethna. Over the last few years, UWG has added several major facilities: the Campus Center, The Coliseum, the Greek Village, and the University Stadium. “We’ve always had people who wanted a strong campus life, but our lack of
facilities made it difficult,” said McClellan. “These facilities have given us what we need to take campus life to the next level.” Even with all the growth that UWG has experienced over the years, there are still
Photo by Krystal HorneIn 2000, UWG installed the flame sculpture on Maple Street.
tHen and now: a decade at west GeorGia
See Decade Page 3
Photo by Terence RushinEmily Deaber, Joy Hof and Bret Williams (left to right) de-cided to put a mattress in the elevator and a sign that says, “If they have to sleep in the streets, then we can sleep on an elevator,” to raise money for Haiti relief.
A mock-up of the future UWG signs, this is not the final design choice for the signs.
decided to help the citizens of Haiti by collecting health kits from students. The health kits included basic hygiene materials like washcloths, bars of soap, toothbrushes, combs, nail clippers and band-aids. “When I heard about the earthquake, I was horrified because I knew the people in Haiti had nothing to begin with,” Hardin said. “Now they have even less. I decided that I had to do something.” All of the kits Hardin gathered on Jan. 21 will be delivered to Haiti through the United Methodist Committee on Relief, a non-profit international humanitarian aid organization. “We also encouraged students to include a dollar in the kit so that the coordinators could purchase toothpaste,” Hardin said. “[UMCOR] thought it would be best for donors to include money so that they could purchase toothpaste in bulk. Otherwise it might expire before it arrives in Haiti.” A second reason to enclose an additional dollar in the envelope was to ensure that the kits reach Haitian victims as soon as possible. “The extra dollar enables us to process and ship the kits extremely quickly,” Sager Brown, a UMCOR coordinator, explained. Stania Philizaire and Jeannie Jean, two Haitian students at UWG, felt particularly compelled to provide relief for their friends and family in Haiti. They decided to organize a benefit concert, which will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 27 at 8 p.m. in the Campus Center. Admission for students will only be three dollars. The concert will include a speech from Philizaire about her childhood in Haiti,
as well as student poetry readings, band performances and Haitian-style dance sequences. Philizaire and Jean reached out to other student organizations like Amnesty International and the Student Anti-Genocide Coalition for additional support. Aside from helping coordinate the event, Amnesty International and STAND also plan to financially contribute to the relief efforts on campus. Doneen Mills and Jadon Marianetti, respective presidents of STAND and Amnesty International, along with political science professor Dr. Sal Peralta, made arrangements with the New York Times to deliver newspapers in return for funding. All of the money they raise will be sent to people in Haiti. “All students have to do is pick up a copy of the Times,” Mills explained. “They don’t even have to pay anything for it because it’s free.”
Dr. Jeanette Diaz-LaPlante, a psychology professor who was developing a grant program in Haiti prior to the earthquake, also plans to help Philizaire and Jean by speaking at the concert. LaPlante hopes that all students become involved in the relief effort. “Haiti is an integral part of the economic and social history of our country,” she said. Indeed, Haiti and the United States’ history have been greatly, often violently, intertwined since the Louisiana Purchase. In this famous era in history, Napoleon gave the United States the Louisiana territory after the Haitian slaves rebelled and successfully attained independence from France. According to Anthony Mason at CBS, “the American Midwest as we know it would not really exist without the Haitian revolution pushing France to give up on its design for empire in the Western hemisphere.”
Economically crippled by debt to France, Haiti was easily invaded and occupied by the United States from 1915 to 1934. In the 1950s, the United States supported Francois “Papa Doc” Duvalier’s violent and corrupt regime due to fears of communism. Yet in 1986, the US government ousted Duvalier’s son, “Baby Doc”, from office after his similarly repressive regime crushed the growing tourist industry. Despite, or perhaps because of this, history students and faculty hope to repair the massive damage in Haiti. “I think that as human beings we should do something,” said Hardin. “Haiti was already economically and politically in ruins. Now we are looking at the possibility of Haiti not even existing.” Students can continue to help by calling UWG’s Earthquake Relief Fund at 678-839-6582 or by visiting the website at http://www.westga.edu/alumni.
Alissa Troutman Staff [email protected]
The H1N1 flu virus, also known as the “Swine Flu,” has been a concern to students and to those in the community ever since new strands of it emerged in 2009. Although new cases of H1N1 are on the decline nationally, cases of the virus are still reported on-campus. According to the Flu.gov online, “The H1N1 virus is similar to the regular flu and may include: fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue and possibly vomiting or diarrhea. It is very contagious.” Unfortunately, many people will get sick this year from the flu. However, there are preventative measures that
students can still take here on campus. The best way that a person can avoid getting the flu this year is by receiving the highly anticipated H1N1 flu vaccine. In the beginning, these vaccines were hard to come by and were administered to those considered to be at high risk. According to the Center for Disease Control at the CDC.gov, those considered high risk include “pregnant women, household contacts and caregivers for children younger than six months of age, health and emergency medical services personnel, all people from six months through 24 years of age and persons aged 25 through 64 years who have a higher risk of medical complications from influenza.” Fortunately, now vaccines are now widely available and
recommended to everyone. “Students should never drink after each other, always wash their hands thoroughly, try to avoid others who are sick, drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest,” said Debra Dugan, UWG health educator. “It also helps if one stops smoking, eats healthier and lives an active lifestyle.” There have also been rumors that one vaccination against H1N1 is not enough and that a second vaccine might be required. “So far, we don’t have any more new information about that issue right now,” said Dugan. Fortunately, the human body should develop a resistance to the virus if infected. According to the CDC.gov, “Getting infected with any
influenza virus, including 2009 H1N1, should cause the body to develop immune resistance to that virus so it’s not likely that a person would be infected with the identical influenza virus more than once.” For more information on the H1N1 flu, students are recommended to visit Student Health 101 online at http://www.westga.edu/health/index_4167.php. “Student Health 101 is a magazine geared toward college students,” said Dugan. “It is fun to read and it has archives about the H1N1 flu and many other diseases. Also, students can contribute to the magazine and have a chance to be published. If everyone takes the proper steps to avoid the flu this year, students will be healthier, happier and will avoid missing class.
The West GeorgianThe University of West Georgia
University Community Center, Room 111
Carrollton, GA, 30118-0070Editorial Line: (678) 839-6527
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Copyright NoticeThe West Georgian, copyright 2009, is an official pub-lication of the University of West Georgia. Opinions ex-pressed herein are those of the newspaper staff or indi-vidual authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of
university faculty or staff.
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serve the right to edit for style, content and length.
Maggie Hills, Editor-in-ChiefKatheryn Elie, Advertising & Business Manager
Corryn Fraser, News EditorCass Carter, Sports Editor
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Grant Wallace, Distribution ManagerDoug Vinson, Advisor
Masthead Art by Jesse DukeEllis Smith, Editor Emeritus
The West Georgian - NEWS Page 2 — WEDNESDAY, January 27, 2010
Update: H1N1 prevention methods
From Haiti Front Page
File photo
several projects in the works for the future. “[They’re] on the books as [approved projects], but the funding is not in the state budget right now,” said Sethna. Some of these plans include a major library renovation, a new bookstore possibly located near the TLC and a new nursing building. However, the statuses of these projects are currently in limbo due to the current state of the state budget and the economy. “The library is currently undergoing a renovation and expansion which will make it more usable and inviting to students,” said McClellan. “We’re also in the very early planning stages of a new building for the College of Nursing, although we’re uncertain of the timeline for that in this economy.”
Other university projects include construction on the road near The Coliseum, which leads to the athletic complex. “The new road from the main campus to the Athletic Complex will make the new part of campus more accessible,” said McClellan. “Although, the unusually wet weather we are having this year has slowed that project down.” The main plan is to foster UWG into a “destination university.” As a destination university, the goal is to make the university one of the first institution choices in Georgia through three key approaches. “We want West Georgia to be that place where students come and graduate from,” said Sethna. “We hope to accomplish that by building our academics, our social and cultural life on campus and our facilities. That’s our vision.”
To develop UWG into a destination university, the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management is focusing on changing two primary areas for the next three years: improving the academic success of students and improving campus life. “We want to see fewer students failing classes, see more students graduating, involve more students in leadership and community service opportunities, and watch them succeed academically with the skills and knowledge to help them be effective citizens and leaders,” says McClellan. According to McClellen, UWG’s ultimate goal is to “help Carrollton feel more like a ‘college town,’ with a great place to go to school and create lifelong memories.” So with the university constantly evolving, where do the administrators of their respective departments see
themselves over the next five to ten years? Among other things, McClellan hopes to be retired, planning a birthday celebration and occasionally visiting UWG as it continues to become one of four robust-tier universities in Georgia. “Even though in 10 years, I’ll be planning my 65th birthday celebration, I have several years before I’m ready to make that decision,” said McClellen. “[Until then], I plan to be right here, continuing to work with our students, staff, and faculty to make UWG a better place every year.” And as for UWG President, Dr. Sethna? “When I first came to this university in the late 90s, many had the belief that I would stay for a few years, then move on to a bigger, better and more prestigious university,” said Sethna, “They were right. I have. And the University of West Georgia is it.”
From Decade Front Page
Julianna BarnettStaff [email protected]
The advancement of technology makes it easier and more convenient for the University of West Georgia and the population of Carrollton to stay abreast of local news and activities. However, most students are unaware of Nixle.com, a community information service that keeps users up-to-date on issues including updates on the local police department, schools, and various community agencies and organizations. Nixle.com contains information that is made available by cell phone, text message, e-mail, or can be read directly from the website itself. A Nixle.com user can also customize an online account so
that they receive only personally relevant information. Users can trust the information they receive. The website publishes verified information, using various organizations and government agencies to complete an extensive identification certification before making the information available on the web. There are four different types of messages available including alerts, advisories, community information and
traffic alerts. Alerts typically pertain to emergency information, such as extreme weather conditions. Advisories are less urgent, but still contain valuable information. Community information contains local information about upcoming events or activities. Traffic alerts are localized and are extremely useful for members of the community who hate to be stuck behind a wreck or a closed road. College students, however, aren’t excited about Nixle.com.
UWG freshman Jennifer Morgan said that she would probably not use the website to get updates sent to her cell phone. “I have lived in Carrollton my whole life and I already know when things are going on,” said Morgan. “I wouldn’t need the traffic updates because I already know all of the back roads in Carrollton and it really wouldn’t make a difference. If something is really important I will probably see it in the newspaper.”
Other students seemed to agree. “If my tax dollars are not paying for it, then I don’t want to use it,” said freshman John Stapler. UWG students may be more likely to use the text alert system if it included updates on local performances, events and restaurant promotions. Justin Dawson, a senior, said that he probably wouldn’t use the service because it isn’t something that is of interest to him. “If it was expanded to include cultural activities then I would consider using it and would be more likely to subscribe,” said Dawson. For now, students are just fine obtaining their local news and information from other sources.
in the distribution of the USPD Grant. The application process includes a detailed essay of how each individual wishes to utilize the awarded money. The SA Committee then plans to make a judgment on the value or relevance of the specific need and provide the money accordingly. A request for $500 for a Wii for “research purposes,” for example, would most likely be denied, but $100 for new zip-drives and memory cards for a research assistant would be more practical. “The committee hopes that lots of undergraduates and graduates fill them out so we can help lots of people, but if we only have a few then we will just give more to the few that do apply,” said Isaacs. Because the Professional Development Grant is new and being offered for the first time
this year, the money available this semester is larger than expected. The grant is financed through specific funds from the department budget. “The original idea was that $2500 would be given in the fall semester and then the other $2500 would be given out in the spring,” said Isaacs. “Since this is the first year of the grant, we are giving all $5000 away this semester. And then next fall it will split up between the two semesters.” The endeavor is so new that there is no set timeline on the decision of who gets how much and when, but the grant is a positive step forward for students struggling through difficult economic times. “It is hoped that this money will be able to be given each semester,” said Isaacs. Applicants can find applications in the College of Arts and Sciences office on the third floor of the TLC.
winter break with the same suggestion—“to enhance and promote campus identity and visibility.” Webster suggested they work together and make it happen. “I was actually in Austin, Tx. for Christmas and when I was driving I noticed the street signs were themed with the Longhorn logo and were colored that burnt orange. I
said, ‘This is really cool. We need to have something like this at West Georgia.’ So I took a picture of one of the street signs and sent it to Alan [Webster],” said Bachman. Bachman is not an SGA member, just a self-proclaimed involved student. Updating street signs is just the beginning of the overhaul Lindo and Bachman are pushing for. Naming the road that connects the stadium
to campus is next on the agenda. Though dates are not set, they would like to hold a naming contest. Now in the works, they want UWG sports logos carved into the asphalt roads starting on Maple Street and leading to the stadium, as an “intimidation” technique for rival teams. “We have a football team, a basketball team, all these great facilities—let’s
get pumped up about our own stuff,” said Bachman. Lindo is also working on having wolf paw decals handed out to students, “perhaps with next year’s parking tags.” His vision extends past the student body. Lindo wants to improve UWG’s relationship with the Carrollton community by reaching out to residents. He hopes to hold a community carnival on Adamson Square or in the Cultural Arts Center
this fall as a gesture of good will. “I think a lot of this will help the future classes of West Georgia,” said Bachman. Lindo and Bachman hope to close the gap between the university and the community and to make UWG something everyone can share and celebrate. “I want to see people wearing more UWG logos than UGA,” said Lindo.
The West Georgian - NEWS Page 3 — WEDNESDAY, January 27, 2010
AnnouncementsJan. 25-29- Student Organization Fair, Campus
Center Ballroom
Jan. 27- Haitian Benefit Concert, p.m., Campus Center Ballroom
Jan. 29- Movie Night, 7 p.m., Campus Center Ballroom
Feb. 4- Wall Poster vendor, 8-5 p.m., UCC
Feb. 4- International Night, 7 p.m., Z-6
Feb.5-Job Fair, Campus Center Ballroom
From Signs Front Page
Nixle.com: Carrollton community information service
From Grant Front Page Departments that fall under Arts and
Science
AnthropologyArt
BiologyChemistry
Computer ScienceEnglish & PhilosophyForeign Language &
LiteratureGeosciences
HistoryMass Communications
& TheaterMathematics
MusicPhysics
Political SciencePsychologySociology & Criminology
Grass keeps r.a.’s GoinG
Jessica KlausingStaff [email protected]
The UWG Film Society kicked off their 2010 film festival with local music and student produced films in the Campus Center Ballroom on Jan. 20. The film festival screened the five film entries from the 48 Hour Film Race last semester. The students were allowed one weekend to write, direct and produce a short film. The Film Society provided
the contestants with specific rules for the competition. For example, this time each film had to include a magnifying glass, a double take and had include the phrase “It wasn’t me” somewhere in the dialogue. The rules and the limited time restraint ultimately challenged the students’ filmmaking process. “The Film Society encourages everyone to be a filmmaker,” said Film Society president Terence Rushin. The group promotes student filmmaking talent
through film festivals and the society’s YouTube channel. The 48 Hour Film Race is an example of the many opportunities the Film Society offers students. The kick-off celebration honored the hard work put into last semester’s film race. The celebration began with performances from Ambient Soul and the music video debut of local band Baby Baby’s “The Sandwich and I Thought We Were Friends.” Next, a student representative from each film
in the 48 Hour Film Race was asked to give a brief introduction about the making of his or her film. “We had a lot of fun filming and editing,” said Lee Moua, a UWG senior who starred as a rich, malicious Asian woman in the film “The Evil Immigrant.” The film foreshadowed the irony of bad karma. Another film project entitled “The Buyer,” entertained students with a comedy about a college student with an unlimited amount of
money. “The film is about a guy with a severe buying addiction,” said Matt Jones, an actor in the film. Dr. Barbara Brickman announced the winners at the end of the screenings for separate categories including Best Short Film and Best Editing. A horror film about four students being stalked by a murderer called “Out Here,” won Best Editing with an
UWG Film Society kicks off screen celebration
See Film Page 8
Amanda ThompsonStaff [email protected]
Constantly, resident assistants are letting students into their rooms, dealing with inconsiderate students and convincing residents to attend programs through pleading and bribery. Still, they handle their schoolwork and involve themselves in organizations. How to they prepare? Georgia Resident Assistant Saturday Seminar, an annual event known as GRASS to Ga. R.A.’s, is a large part as to how they handle their roles. GRASS was held Saturday on UWG’s campus to help motivate and improve
the skills of over 600 R.A.’s from across Ga. The one day event began with an opening session that included a popular tradition—the roll call. Every university showed their creativity and their uniqueness. Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College came down to the coliseum floor dressed in Hawaiian straw skirts and face masks, dancing excitedly to different songs. A crowd favorite was Kennesaw State University’s step that had many members of the audience cheering for them. R.A.’s participated in four different sessions composed of 14 to 15 programs. Programs were presented by staff members from different
colleges, so the R.A.’s could see different ways of putting on programs, being better at community development, and handling staff or personal issues with the resident assistant position. The programs focused on topics from how to help residents from stereotyping to helping students deal with domestic abuse. One program showed how R.A.’s at Morehouse College addressed the controversial issue of the use of the “n” word. The presenters literally presented the program as they did at the university by using the word constantly and showing a black and white video that engaged and stimulated the audiences mind.
UWG R.A. Jenique Francois was shocked by the program. “Their program shocked me because they used very intense visuals. While I always knew the topic was controversial, I never knew the history behind the topic until their program,” said Francois. “Their exploration of the topic really stimulated my mind. And I’d like to do something similar to this program here on campus.” Another program that seemed to spark murmurs amongst the different staffs was a program that allowed R.A.’s to discuss their different ways of handling issues such as alcohol violations, staff relations, and community
development. This led one R.A. from Savannah State University to say that she was shocked at how another university’s resident assistants got free room and board, a cell phone stipend and a monthly stipend of $300. While she was shocked at this, she remained positive, saying it was more important to know she made an impact through her R.A. role than to focus upon the money aspect. UWG Resident assistant Charles Young felt great about the day. “I met a lot of different people from other colleges and universities. I had a great time. I personally learned a lot and appreciated everyone else’s creativity,” said Young.
Adam ElrodStaff [email protected]
It’s a new semester, which means it’s time to play intramural sports. Campus Recreation, formally known as the Intramural Department, is offering basketball, indoor co-ed soccer, softball, co-ed softball and ultimate Frisbee this spring for all students. Currently, Campus Recreation is in the third week of their basketball season and is about to kick-off indoor co-ed soccer. They also recently hosted a volleyball tournament. Campus Recreation constantly evolves each semester. In the past, intramural teams had to sign up on paper, creating a hassle for students who struggled to get an entire team’s worth of 917 numbers, wasting time and money. Now, the department has incorporated an online system called imleagues.com, a free website that students can use to sign up their teams and create a player account. Starting with softball students,
intramural players will be able to pay for their teams using the website. The system also helps to enforce sign-up deadlines, which have to be followed so that teams cannot unfairly add new players mid-season. “I want everyone to be able to play, but we have to have deadlines so make sure you sign up by the registration deadlines,” said Edward Croy, assistant director of Intramural Sports. “Imleagues.com has many services to help get students signed up. Students can e-mail imleagues at any time for help.” The University of West Georgia currently has many great intramural teams. Hitman, a flag football team from UWG, are the consecutive state champions. They have also competed as an elite team at the national level. The department continues to make changes on many levels, including the Male Athlete of the Year Award, now called the Jay Chapman Award. The name was changed as a memorial to Chapman, who won the award three times while
he was a student at UWG and who is arguably one of the best all-around intramural athletes UWG has ever had. He also worked for Campus Recreation as a referee. Chapman, who was a beloved brother of the fraternity Pi Kappa Phi, died in a car accident in the summer of 2009. The Campus Recreation staff knew
what he meant to the department and decided that it was only fitting to name the award after him. For more information about intramural sports, upcoming deadlines, or for questions about imleagues.com, contact the Campus Recreation department at 678-839-6617.
PAGE 4 --- WEDNESDAY, January 27, 2010 SportsNCAA investigation to change UWG Athletics
Intramurals evolve: imleagues.com new fad
Mixed results: Wolves against Alabama-Huntsville
Photo by Bernard Upshaw
Registration and Playoff datesSoftball registration February 8 - 24
Ultimate Frisbee registration February 8 - 24
February 15 - 18
February 28 - March 4
April 12 - 15
April 12 - 15
April 18 - 22
Basketball Playoffs
Indoor Soccer Playoffs
Softball Playoffs
Ultimate Frisbee Playoffs
Co-ed Softball Playoffs
Cass CarterSports [email protected]
The University of West Georgia, in response to a year-long investigation of the Athletics Department by the NCAA, has implemented a variety of changes to their policies, procedures and staff in order to ensure future compliance and to mitigate the effects of the previous infractions. “In the past, athletics has not always enjoyed a collaborative relationship with the larger university community,” said Michael Ruffner, vice-president of University Advancement. “In the months ahead Coach Dickey and I will meet with various groups on campus to discuss changes in the athletics program,
answer questions, and address any issues that may be of concern.” NCAA’s investigation found UWG’s athletics program in violation of several rules regarding the provision of extra benefits, recruiting, ethical conduct, eligibility certification, degree requirement compliance, records-keeping for athletic-related activities, monitoring of travel and financial expenses, NCAA rules and regulations training, and institutional control by University advancement. The investigation found that the violations led to 119 student athletes practicing, competing, or receiving financial aid or travel expenses while ineligible. UWG maintains that with the exception of the extra benefits violation, that the violations were entirely unintentional and were the
result of inattention and lack of oversight. In response to the charges, UWG has taken several steps. The university hired a full-time compliance officer and academic advisor, instituted mandatory advising programs for all student athletes and increased the number of tutors on staff to 12. Additionally, they have appointed a new director of athletics with significant coaching and administrative experience and broadened the responsibilities of the coaching staff to assist in the enforcement process through rules education, commitment to compliance and ongoing monitoring. Likewise, the administration has initiated mandatory rules and compliance sessions for all coaches,
and instituted mandatory attendance for university staff at NCAA regional rules meetings, as well as instituting new academic intervention procedures to target at-risk student athletes through the Office of Academic Affairs. Finally, the university has clarified internal policies to be more consistent with NCAA guidelines and appointed a new head baseball coach with experience in leading successful and compliant Division II programs. The penalties levied by the NCAA include a public reprimand and censure, four year probation, mandatory annual report and auditing, vacation of all contests in which ineligible student athletes competed, reductions in financial aid, recruiting limitations, a post-season ban and a $2,500 penalty.
Cass CarterSports [email protected]
The University of West Georgia Wolves took on the Alabama-Huntsville Chargers in The Coliseum on Jan. 21 in men’s and women’s basketball, pulling away with a huge 62-38 win for the Women’s team and a 74-56 loss for the men’s team. The women took to the court, starting off with a three-point score from Alabama-Huntsville, followed by a cold streak on both sides for the next
several minutes. Despite the early lead, the Chargers were not able to hold on to it, with the Wolves taking the lead in scoring and breaking away under the leadership of Whitley Mayberry. The Wolves went into half time with an overwhelming 42-17 lead. By the end of the 62-38 shoot-out, the Wolves had forced a total of 28 turnovers. Mayberry was one of three players for the night to score in double-digits, marking down 16 points of her own, followed by Thomassian Wyatt with 11, and Charlease Williams
putting in 10. On the men’s side, the Wolves competed with artful three-point shooting and kept the score tight through most of the game. A second-half offensive charge from UAH, however, allowed the Chargers to break away to take the win. Jeremy Smith led the Wolves in scoring, doing 15 points of damage. He was followed by Vojin Svilar and Gavin Field, each taking 13 points. The loss marks the men’s team’s fall to 9-9 for the season and 1-2 in conference play.
Photo by Bernard Upshaw Photo by Bernard Upshaw
Kat ElieBusiness [email protected]
The Scott Brown Epidemic
Last week an important event happened that shook up the Senate and has the potential to reshape the U.S. political landscape – the special election of Republican Scott Brown to the long-held Democratic seat of Massachusetts. This improbable victory has been felt down to the state and local levels. Many Republicans are considering challenging Deomcrats in House races, as well as sending a broad message of discontentment and outrage to Washington. Scott Brown’s election also threatens to stop or, at the very least, delay the Obama administration’s year-long effort to pass the healthcare reform bill by destroying the two-thirds majority Democratic vote in the Senate. The big question now is if the elites in Congress will listen to the message from one of their very own blue-states.
Samuel Adams, one of the leaders in the 1773 Boston Tea Party, wrote “It does not require a majority to prevail, but rather an irate, tireless minority, keen on setting brush fires in people’s minds.” Which is perhaps what is happening in the U.S. Senate. At a time when voters are concerned and upset about the growing national debt, Senate Democrats are pushing for the pass of a $1.9 trillion increase in the debt limit, which would allow the U.S. to owe up to $14.3 trillion. In another big-government response to the nation’s financial problems, President Obama is working on a proposal to reduce trading activities and perhaps the size of big banks that have, in recent years, dominated the financial system. This comes at the same time for a plan to place a $120 billion tax on those exact same banks. Obama officials are demanding that banks increase their lending and agree to massive regulations that would allow the reign of government micro-management in financial institutions. Many believe that there are reasons to be angry with bankers after
they took taxpayer dollars as bailouts, and then turned around and paid huge bonuses. However, Democratic attempts to control every aspect of banking is not a solution, and some believe that the real reason for this new micro-management is to distract voters from the fact that most of Obama’s policies have failed to help the economy create new jobs. This leads into what Senator-elect Scott Brown stands for and backed up by his voting record. Brown has said that he’s not in favor of new regulations of the financial market. “It’s all about the economy and jobs. Pulling back on the financial regulations, I think if you do too much too soon, it doesn’t have a chance to catch up. Let us see if we can work out of this ourselves through free enterprise, private enterprise, intervention and creativity. I’m in favor for just holding back for a little bit and letting private enterprise try to get us out of this mess.” Brown also believes that another government stimulus is not a good idea. “We are leaving a legacy, amassing amazing amounts of debt, passing it on to our kids and
Opinion“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble,
and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”-First Amendment, United States Constitution
As Seen By Maggie Hills Editor-in-Chief
Rain or Shine with Kat Elie
Man on the StreetDo you think the U.S. government should be involved financially in the Haitian Relief Effort?
Christina ThompsonStaff Writer
Feez Arijorin, sophomore: “We’re in debt ourselves, but if people are going to donate it should be non-profit, instead of people making money off of it.”
Casey Lewis, senior: “Yes, definitely with two earthquakes.”
Photo by Christina Thompson
Photo by Christina Thompson
Ben Harris, junior: “America prides itself on being one of the most financially stable counties… It’s a moral obligation.”
Photo by Christina ThompsonDevin Brown, sophomore: “I feel like they should, it’s a bordering third world country… We would want people to help if it was us.”
Photo by Christina Thompson
Haitian Relief The U.S. government should not involve itself financially in the Haitian relief effort, or so a friend of mine believes. His argument is that the money the government is dishing out isn’t its money to dish—it’s borrowed, either from the American people through taxes or from foreign governments through loans. In sum, you shouldn’t give away what isn’t
yours to give. However, his argument, while logical, doesn’t go far when it comes to the less logical and more emotional
masses, since few would agree with the outcome of not supplying financial aid—a total disregard of human suffering. Striking a balance between his calculated views and the average bleeding hearts’, I propose the U.S. government spends funds only on human relief efforts—rescue, medical aid, food and temporary housing—rather than humanitarian
aid plus rebuilding costs. As for rebuilding Haiti—and let’s face it, America loves to rebuild countries other than its own—I oppose any such movement on one premise: it’s not our responsibility. The U.S.’s responsibilities are first to the American public. In this economic pit, the government should focus on its own people first and then see to others. I believe helping those who’ve been through a natural disaster is ethical, not to mention neighborly, but few would or could offer to rebuild a neighbor’s house after a tornado or flood. Speaking of floods, it was just a few months ago that Georgians
suffered their own disaster. Other nations didn’t offer aid in any shape or form, so by helping a fellow nation at all, America’s already stepping up to bat in a big way. Some might say that’s being petty, but I say we can’t afford to be the bigger man as much as we used to. At some point America must limit itself and start looking out for its own rather than everyone else. Politicians need to draw a hard line; relief efforts are acceptable, even commendable, but rebuilding a foreign nation when your own country needs so much work is not. After all, how many Iraqs can this economy stand?
Rant and Rave
-Is it really necessary for you to laugh like an
asthmatic hyena and talk about your sex life so
loudly that everyone can hear all of the gruesome
details? I think not.
-Not showing up to a job interview is not acceptable.
How do you think you’ll ever get a job that way?
-What’s the point of having two buses per route if
they’re right behind one another constantly?
Send Rants or Raves to [email protected] with subject line “Rant &
Rave.”See R & S Page 8
Grant WallaceDistribution [email protected]
Riddle me this: What do you get when you add a gorgeous backdrop of the Bora Bora and Tahiti islands, a hilarious and well reputed cast, the composer who received a Golden Globe for Best Original Score (for Slumdog Millionaire) and alas, a director who once acted in two Wonder Years episodes (one of my favorite shows ever). Credentials? Check. Nostalgia? Drum roll, please… You’ll get an exponentially hyped-up movie that may just be the biggest fail of every actor’s career in this film. Couples Retreat follows the simple premise of a group of friends vacationing to the islands for some therapy with their significant others. More often than not, I was more mesmerized by the beauty of the islands then by the acting itself. The following are cases in point. Funny man Jason Batemen, best known for his banana-stand loving on Arrested Development, is possibly the worst actor in the film. He makes only a handful of jokes and plays a character that everyone is suppose to hate. Here’s some basic Film 101: if you’re going to make an actor play the antagonist, make sure that they have something to back it up with. Vince Vaughn has indeed had his fair share of rough patches, so at least I’m pleased to say that he didn’t stoop any lower. Although he was keeping his
usual humor afloat, it was toned down to a PG-13 rating, which brings me to my next point of disappointment. Jon Favreau not only loses once,
but twice. Besides his role in one of the couples at the retreat, he and Vaughn also have the embarrassing honor of being the writers as well. Hopefully
they’ve now learned a valuable lesson that my dad has bestowed upon me for years: sometimes it’s best not to quit your day job. Favreau also failed to provide any glimpses of the hilarious Barry from I Love You, Man. Likewise, a favorite of mine, Kristen Bell, aka Veronica Mars, easily left me wanting to watch reruns of her career, because it was better suited to the small screen. It hurts me to continue this review as I haven’t even made it to the numerous plot inconsistencies, but, as men in battle must remind themselves, I must go on. It’s highly unfortunate that cameos from Ken Jeong (The Hangover, Community) and John Michael Higgins (Kath & Kim) were only about a minute long and were entirely out of character for the actors. The biggest fault I had with the plot’s reality aspect was Batemen. He played the character that no one liked, but somehow, everyone still loved? Throughout the movie, I found myself questioning why his friends were even his friends. Unfortunately, the biggest laugh I got from the film was at its own expense. For whatever reason, they decided to use computer-generated sharks for one scene, which made me laugh for all the wrong reasons. I’ll have to stop here for my own sake, but I honestly wouldn’t recommend this film for anything other than a good date starter, if you know what I mean.
Spending $6.50 with Grant: Couples Retreat
Arts & EntertainmentPAGE 7 --- WEDNESDAY, January 27, 2010
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
Live bands- Mellow Mushroom
Free Poker at 2 p.m.- The Mansion
Game night- Last Call
Nerd Night- The Alley Cat
Trivia 9 p.m.- Last Call
Radical Trivia 9:30 p.m.- Alley Cat
Poker 7 p.m. and karaoke 10 p.m. - The Den
Open Mic. Night- Last CallTrivia and Live Acoustics- The Irish Bred PubOpen Mic. Night- Alley CatTrivia 8 p.m.- The DenKaraoke 9 p.m.- Mellow Mushroom
“Last Call” Thursdays w/ live D.J. - Last Call
D.J. Kell - The Irish Bred Pub
Live DJ -The Den
Trivia 8:30-9 p.m.- Mellow Mushroom
Live D.J. or bands-The Pub
Live D.J.’s- The Den
Live D.J.- The Mansion
Live bands-The Den
Live bands- The Irish Bred Pub
Tree House Talk- The Alley Cat
Events around Carrollton
If you have a favorite recipe, send it to Maggie at
[email protected] for her to review.
My roommate introduced me to this stromboli-like creation that serves as a main course or appetizer. Make several loaves at once and store some in the freezer for another day.
Recipe of the Weekwith Maggie Hills
Pepperoni Cheese Bread1 loaf of frozen bread dough (thawed) 1/4 lb. Pepperoni (deli sliced)1/3 lb. Provolone cheese 1 egg1 tablespoon of water
Preheat oven to 375˚. Take thawed dough and roll flat (length should be longer than width). Spread cheese out on dough. Spread pepperoni out on layer of cheese. Fold dough, cheese, and pepperoni into a roll. Make sure the dough covers all pepperoni and cheese. Put in oven for 20 minutes. Mix egg and water together. After 20 minutes, take bread out of oven and cover with egg and water mixture (may not use all of mixture). Place back in oven for 10 minutes.
Photo by Maggie Hills
File Photo
Kelly QuimbyStaff [email protected]
The music department kicked off the second half of the 2009-2010 concert season last Thursday, Jan. 21, with a performance by guest artists Stephen Framil, a cellist, and Peter Cooper, a pianist. The musicians visited Kathy Cashen Recital Hall to perform the 22nd event of the season’s concert series. The wind, rain, and tornado warnings were all but forgotten in the recital hall, though the crowd was reassured when Framil commented as the two walked onstage, “I heard backstage that this is the safest building to be in.” The structural strength of the Humanities building aside, Framil went on to introduce the night’s program, chosen because of its significance to the composers. “Last year, Cooper and I did Mendelssohn and Handel to celebrate their birth years, this year is the bicentennial of
Schumann and Chopin and the centennial of Barber,” Framil said. The program began with German composer Robert Schumann’s “Five Pieces in Folk Style, Opus 102,” for cello and piano. The work was written during the composer’s most creative period of composition, and was based on folk composition, though it is still considered a masterpiece of the fine arts. Framil described Schumann’s work as “very creative writing.” The pieces were as distinct as if they had been different works. For part one, Framil and Cooper played a duet of upbeat, staccato notes, which faded into the second part, notably more solemn and moody. Perhaps the most interesting result of Schumann’s opus was the third part entitled “Nicht Schnell mit viel Ton zu spielen,” a song that enabled Framil to create an interesting sound from the use of only two strings. The night continued with American composer Samuel Barber’s “Sonata in C minor for Cello and Piano, Opus 6.” Unlike the work by Schumann, this piece
was written early in Barber’s career, when he was still studying music at the Curtis Institute. “In some places you can see it is a student work, though in others it has wonderful, romantic, soaring lines and bold gestures,” Framil informed the audience. “Barber composed it with cellist and fellow student, Orlando Cole, who recently retired from the Curtis Institute. It’s a marvelous work.” Cole, incidentally, is 101 years old, and retired from the Curtis Institute in 2008. His collaborations with Barber, as well as his contributions to music education, have made him a legend among string performers. The duo performed with gusto during their performance of Barber. Cooper’s arms often dropped to his sides as if he were fatigued while he rested during Framil’s solos. Following the intermission, the two finished the performance with perhaps the most well-known of the three composers, Frédéric Chopin. Unlike the
previous works, Chopin’s “Sonata in G minor for Cello and Piano, Opus 65” was written late in the composer’s career, and was one of only a few pieces Chopin composed that was not written solely for piano. Cooper assessed Chopin’s work by saying that it held dance-like qualities. “Chopin brings his own flavor to the waltz with pieces that are lyrical, singing and tuneful,” said Cooper. “In the first part are distinct themes in the beginning and end that you see developed in the middle. The second part is fast and lyrical. The third part brings to mind the Schumann’s piece entitled ‘Chopin’ which is often called the most beautiful Chopin that Chopin never wrote. Part three of this piece, I submit to you, is the most beautiful Schumann that Schumann never wrote.” The evening proved to be a wonderful start to the spring semester’s concert series, which continues Feb. 15 with the Wright Scholars Concert in Cashen Hall.
Music dept. season continues: Stephen Framil, Peter Cooper
Ashlyn KirkStaff [email protected]
Any University of West Georgia student can “Show Us What You Got” at the Battle of the Musicians performance in the Campus Center Ballroom at 6 p.m. on March 1. Do you think you are the next big thing? Well, now is the time for UWG musicians to prove it at a musical competition held on-campus. Musicians will showcase their talents at a free event for students, faculty, and staff. There is no entrance fee for competitors. The Battle of the Musicians was
organized by the Students Activities Council. The SAC decided this semester that planning events with live music would be a little different from events in the past. In 2009, the SAC booked musicians on-campus such as singer and songwriter Sara Haze, who performed in the fall, and Jared Campbell, who performed in the spring. “This semester, [we want] the students to be our entertainment,” said Amber Rogers, the live music coordinator at SAC. “We have many talented students around campus along with great support to them, so why not let everyone shine this semester?” The event will consist of 10
musical acts, and is open to any kind of musical performance including solo artists, bands, a cappella singers, acoustic musicians, rappers and instrumentalists. Attendees can expect an assortment of talent at the show. To participate in this event, interested students may pick up an application at Room 319 in the Campus Center and fill it out by Jan. 26 at 5 p.m. Students must also sign up to audition on either Feb. 2 or 4. After auditioning, the SAC will choose the best 10 musical acts to perform at the show. Competitors will be notified by Feb. 6. Once the SAC has selected the top musicians, the musicians
will attend a rehearsal to practice the order and set-up of the show. The rehearsal will take place on Feb. 19 at 7 p.m. and attendance is mandatory for competitors. The Battle of the Musicians will be held on March 1. Performers will have an allotted 10 minutes to perform and another 10 minutes to set up and break down their equipment. So, if students think they can show UWG what they’ve got, then head down to the SAC office and pick up an application. And remember music lovers, come out and show your support to the up-and-coming musicians -- after all, they could be the next big thing.
The West Georgian - OpinionsPAGE 6 --- WEDNESDAY, January 27, 2010
Battle of the Musicians applications due Jan. 26
BeauSolielAshley ArmstrongStaff [email protected]
Musical group BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet is a 2010 Grammy nominee for their album “Alligator Purse” released in 2009. The band has had 11 Grammy nominations since they were founded in 1975. BeauSoleil released their first album, “The Spirit of Cajun Music” in 1977, and have been producing hit songs and albums for the past 34 years. Band members consist of Michael Doucet on violin, guitar, accordion, mandolin and vocals; his brother David Doucet on guitar and vocals; accordion player Jimmy Breaux; percussionist Billy Ware; Tommy Alesi on drums and Mitch Reed on fiddle and bass. On Jan. 23, BeauSoleil performed at the University of West Georgia’s Townsend Center for the third annual Live Art performance. When the show began, the crowd roared with excitement as the band made their way onto the stage. Michael Doucet came out on crutches, but made a joke about his predicament. “Watch out for the ice,” said Doucet, as the theater filled with laughter. Doucet went on to tell the audience about the origins of his band’s namesake. “BeauSoleil means beautiful sun,
but it is also an inspiration,” said Doucet. The performance was soulful and uplifting. Doucet wowed the audience with his musical talents and cracked jokes between songs. Prior to their show, Doucet and Reed hosted a string workshop for the local community. Twelve-year-old Jessica Campbell attended. “I think it is really nice for the band to help out and show us a few pointers,” said Campbell. UWG students were also impressed with the band’s willingness to work with interested members of the community. “I think that is very humble of
the band to take out the time and teach the students who are eager to learn,” said UWG student Isaiah Clinton. “I’m personally excited.” BeauSoleil’s string workshop began at 3 p.m. and was a treat for everyone involved. Doucet and Reed broke the ice by introducing themselves and proceeded to ask participating workshop members to introduce themselves as well. Doucet then gave a brief history on his musical background. “I realized that when a family member dies, their knowledge of our culture and music goes with them,” said Doucet. “So I started to spend time with
my older relatives to learn more about our culture and the music we played.” Doucet explained about southern Lousiana culture and music and then played a few songs for the eager string workshop participants. “This Cajun music is totally new to me,” said UWG student Lauren Coch. “I really enjoyed it and learned a lot from just watching and listening.” Doucet and Reed allowed the participants with instruments to play along with them, handing out pointers, while those without instruments enjoyed listening to their music. At the end of the workshop, Doucet held a question and answer session. “What is the difference between bluegrass and Cajun music?” UWG music professor Elizabeth Kramer asked during the session. “They both sound similar.” “Well, you can’t count [Cajun] music,” said Doucet. “[With] bluegrass you can.” Another participant asked Doucet about the emotions on his face during his performance. He was asked where his passion comes from while he plays. “A memory, when I play,” said Doucet. “I have a memory in my head and I play it through my music. The memory coming out through my playing for the first time causes me to feel the music.”
File Photo
Lindy OllerStaff [email protected]
The University of West Georgia’s art department has a new exhibit by artist Corinna Sephora Mensoff entitled “Rescue Vehicles and the Souls of the South II” on display in the Bobick Gallery. Mensoff is a talented artist from rural New Hampshire. She discovered her passion for art at the age of five in her father’s metalworking workshop. Mensoff has won many awards for her metalworking, including the Best in Show from the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia, the Silver Award from Icarus International, a Silver Sculpture Award from the National Ornamental & Miscellaneous Metals Assocation and many others. Her art can be seen on permanent display at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Temple Sinai in Atlanta, the Martin Luther King Natatorium and in private collections
across the nation. She has a bachelor of fine arts in sculpture and metalsmithing from the Massachusetts College of Art and a master of fine arts in sculpture from Georgia State University. Stephanie Smith, UWG’s gallery director, loved the materials Mensoff uses in her exhibit and how she uses the space around her to express herself. “She is probably the first artist that has hung work from the ceiling,” Smith said. Mensoff allows the audience to interact with her exhibits by looking up and moving around. Smith also admired Mensoff for what she does to help others when disaster strikes. “She put on an exhibition so the artists in New Orleans that were affected by Katrina can show their work,” Smith said. In her artwork, Mensoff uses the imagery of boats and ships as a story-telling tool. Her original inspiration for
the exhibit came from a photograph of a recreational boat tethered to a telephone pole after the hurricane. “It gave me the idea of what would happen if we had such a flood that the Earth was washed away and we only had something that was left,” Mensoff said. Other pieces in her exhibit were inspired by Noah’s Ark and the swampy environment of New Orleans. She wanted to make her Noah’s Ark and swamp buggy piece more comical than other pieces. “I just wanted to have some fun. I wanted to make something that was silly, but still thought-provoking,” Mensoff said. She also made a quilt with photographs from her time in New Orleans. The quilt tells a story and is a source of comfort. “Through all the chaos and disaster everyone just wants to have comfort,” Mensoff said
For more information on Corinna Sephora Mensoff, visit her website at http://corrinasephora.com/bio.html.
Art Dept. holds artist talk: Corinna Sephora Mensoff
Colin BoddyStaff [email protected]
From the first keyboard stroke of Parachute Musical’s show, it’s evident to the listener that this is a band that isn’t messing around. Every band member has honed his craft to an impeccable degree. Each note and harmony is tighter than the last, all meshing together into a cohesive rock/pop gem. Parachute Musical is a keyboard-driven quartet hailing from Nashville, Tenn. These twenty-somethings have been creating quite the stir in the music scene of late, and I was lucky enough to be able to sit down with Josh Foster, Tom Gilbert, Andrew Samples and Ben Jacoby before their show at the Alley Cat Restaurant and Bar, where they were promoting their new single “No Comfort.” The West Georgian: I guess we’ll just start this off with the necessary “How did this band come to be?” Parachute Musical: Well, Josh
(vocals), Tom (guitar), and Ben (drums), were the original members, playing shows in their hometown of D.C., but after a few changes in the line-up we decided to move to Nashville, and that’s where we met Andrew (bass). From there everything just sort of clicked, and it’s remained the permanent set-up for the
band. Ben Jacoby: After touring for so long we’ve really figured each other out. We work together really well. That’s the main point. TWG: What’s the craziest tour situation or story you have? PM: You find yourself in unique
situations every night. It’s the people that make it crazy. From staying in giant mansions filled with feces (laughs) because the owners are too rich and lazy to pick it up, to crashing on couches and waking up and going surfing in South Florida, it really runs the entire spectrum of experiences when you tour constantly. TWG: What would be your favorite bands you’ve played with, as well as some inspirations for you?
PM: We’ve been very fortunate to share the stage with some of our favorite bands including Modern Skirts, the Whigs, our good friends All Get Out and many more. Josh Foster: As far as inspiration goes, I started writing songs in the vein
of Rufus Wainwright in the beginning, but there comes a time as a songwriter when you have to make a decision to stop mimicking your favorite artists and find your own sound. I think that’s
Interview with Parachute Musical
See PM Page 8
File Photo
Photo by Terence Rushin
grand-kids, and at some point we are just going to be top heavy.” He also states that “We should let free enterprise and the business market do what it needs to do to get our economy back and running. I’m concerned that government intervention into private business is just crossing the line.” He also voted no on a $300 million in bonds to offset the budget deficit, “Budgets should be fiscally responsible and balance without gimmicks.” “My record speaks for itself,” stated Brown, “If it helps people and creates jobs, I’m for it.” When it comes to budgeting, the economy, and corporations, Brown supports an across the board tax cut, and has pledged not to raise taxes. Brown doesn’t want the Bush tax cut to expire
in 2010. He has said that he supports a 15 percent across the board tax cut, including corporate and payroll taxes. He wants to permanently eliminate the estate/death tax, and opposes cap-and-trade legislation (which he believes is another un-needed tax on the people) to curb emissions, because he doesn’t believe climate change is entirely man-made and feels that “it would create higher costs for families and businesses”. However, he backs what he calls “reasonable and appropriate” development of wind, solar, nuclear, and geothermal energy. In an television advertisement, Brown compares himself with the late President John F. Kennedy. “I agree with JFK - cutting taxes creates jobs.” Brown has appealed to the state’s 1.6 million registered Democrats with a message that their party has abandoned Kennedy’s ideals of “Different people,
different party, different era, same message: Lowering taxes creates jobs. It was true with JFK, It was true with Ronald Reagan. It’s true now.” He voted no on raising income tax to 5.95 percent to offset the deficit, he voted no on defeating corporate tax disclosures, and yes on extending corporate tax credit for five years. When it comes to Healthcare, Brown vows to be the 41st vote against health-care legislation, effectively killing the effort. He says that Congress should start over, and believes that the current plan costs too much and will lead to higher taxes. He states, “You’re talking about a trillion dollar healthcare plan and a half-trillion in Medicare cuts.” Brown says he is shocked that other Massachusetts representatives are pushing so hard for healthcare reform. “Massachusetts already has
a government option, and we have almost 94 percent of our people insured. We have a fantastic health care system, teaching hospitals, insurance companies that provide great benefits for our state. Why would we want to – I feel—dumb down the medical services and medical insurance in Massachusetts to provide for that type of plan?” Brown wants to ensure that citizens have access to basic health care through managed care, insurance reforms or state-funded care where necessary. He supports patients’ rights to sue their HMO’s, and supports patients’ rights to appeal to an administrative board of specialists when services are denied by their HMO. He also wants to increase state funding for training health workers to recognize and respond to the release of biological agents.
something that’s happened in this band. TWG: What’s the hardest part of touring? PM: Without a doubt it’d be sleeping and dealing with crap food. Fast food gets so old and finding a place to stay in certain situations can be difficult. Also dealing with public restrooms all the time, especially truck stops, you learn to let go of your standards on the road! (laughs) Also, almost all of us have girlfriends back home. Being away from them, while managing the constant touring is tough. Tom Gilbert: The band and my girlfriend are the two most
important things in my life. TWG: While listening to the new single, “No Comfort,” I noticed how much effort you put into your lyrics. The band maintains a carefree attitude onstage, even though the lyrics are most certainly not carefree. Is the message the most important thing for you, or is it the entertainment value on-stage? Foster: The lyrics are for the people at home intensely listening for the message, because it’s there. But it’s important to maintain a great stage presence, so they’ll have a reason to buy the CD and really get into the ideas behind the songs. It’s a two-fold thing, and both are very important.
The West Georgian - A&EPAGE 8 --- WEDNESDAY, January 27, 2010
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From PM Page 7
Christina-Danielle ThompsonStaff [email protected]
There are many curvy, full-figured women who get frustrated when shopping for the hottest fashions because they can’t seem to find anything that looks good on them. Some even brave the shopping crowds, only to be discouraged when they find only loose, baggy and out-of-date outfits in their size. At times it can be hard to dress a plus-size body, but the secret is to always wear items that accentuate curves, not exaggerate them. Curvaceous ladies should stay away from overly baggy outfits, because loose clothing makes the wearer seem heavier. The extra cloth creates the illusion of having more weight than is actually there. Another tip is to wear accessories that flaunt the waist, such as belts and ties. As for shirts and blouses, women with larger arms should try to find tops with 3/4 sleeves. Avoid cap sleeves - this particular cut puts emphasis on the highest part of the arm, which is not a desired look. Women with a larger chest should lean toward v-neck T-shirts and wrap blouses. Although it may sound odd, these styles reduce the focus away from the bosom, whereas scoop-neck and crew-neck shirts may enhance the focus. The further that a top is cut (without showing too much skin, of course), the better it will look on a busty individual. Almost everyone wants to try the new skinny jean trend, but many full-figured ladies may be hesitant to do so. The topic of skinny jeans is very tricky. Some fashion gurus do not believe that plus-sized women should
wear skinny jeans; however, it can be done. One simply has to keep body proportion in mind when trying out these popular pants. Wearers must be sure that they do not look too top-heavy, bottom-heavy or too big around the middle, while attempting to slip into a pair of skinny jeans. The best way to wear these fitted pants is to pair them with a longer shirt that ends at the hips to conceal the tummy area. A short T-shirt worn with skinny jeans will draw attention to the belly and give the illusion that it is bigger than it really is. Another great pant for a curvier woman is the trouser jean. These pants can be found in either wide-leg or straight-leg. Trouser pants give the tush a nice, feminine curve and can draw the eyes away from larger thighs and hips. By combining the pants with a mid-hip-length blouse, trousers can also slim the tummy area. Voluptuous women should also be aware of shoe choice. Ladies with thicker ankles and calves should opt for chunkier heels and wedges. These keep the shoe in total proportion with the foot and leg. Heels with thin straps can make the foot and ankle areas look a lot bigger or can even make the shoe seem too tight. This tip can also be used for curvaceous women with thicker wrists -- chunkier bracelets will have the same great effect! Every woman, no matter her size, has the right to be a fashionista. Just because some women have a few more curves than others doesn’t mean they have to dress frumpily or wear out-dated clothing. By applying the style tips in this article, shopping and dressing a gorgeous full-figured body should be easier and a lot more fun.
PlUS-SIzED FASHIoN TIPS
honorable mention. “Life Lessons with Larry,” was unforgettable, a film that provided students with a hilarious view of the word ‘loss.’ The Film Society unanimously agreed that the film could not go unrecognized because of its unique humor. The “Most Original Short Film” award was created especially for the film. The Best Short Film award went to the project “Kapnobatai” for best screenplay, editing and use of sound. The film depicted the story of how a student dealt with the anxiety of college life. “The film is about a guy who believes college is a necessary evil,” said director Eric Graise. “No job is going to hire you just because you got an A on your math test.” The next 48 Hour Film Race is scheduled for Feb. 12. For more information or updates on the UWG Film Society, join their Facebook group or visit their page on YouTube.
From Film Page 3
From R & S Page 5