ISSUE 5 by Grand Valley Lanthorn

Video of the William Seidman memorial at Lanthorn.com

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Grand Valley State University

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Thursday, September 10, 2009

Proposed law will allow

GUNS ON CAMPUS “Deterrence is a major factor,” Smith said. “A gun-free zone disarms lawabiding citizens and gives criminals the power until police arrive.” The new legislation would make students and faculty the first defense during an attack without having to wait for police to step in, Smith said. To obtain a concealed weapon permit, the certified gun owner must take an eight-hour class after which he or she must score at least 70 percent on a 50-question written test. Part of the course includes a range test where participants, who must be 21 or older, have to hit a stationary, 25.5-inch by 11-inch target 4 yards away. To pass the test, the shooter must fire five rounds three times with 100 percent accuracy on at least two of the attempts. Brian Johnson, professor of criminal justice at GVSU, does not believe Michigan’s CCW courses provide sufficient training to justify concealed weapons in college classrooms and dorms. “When you look at CCW training laws in the state of

Michigan, they only require a few hours and civilians are not trained in the dynamic aspects of a gun ﬁght,” Johnson said. “Training is primarily around handgun safety and some accuracy in a static environment, therefore most civilians are not properly trained in how to respond to an active shooter and their actions could place other students and faculty in danger.” Brian Kingshott, associate professor of criminal justice at GVSU, said he believes the proposed change is a “recipe for disaster.” “I’m totally against the proposal because it isn’t only about carrying a concealed weapon and going through a course,” Kingshott, the adviser for the GV Shooting Club during its existence, said. “You need to have the ability to actually shoot someone. It’s a great psychological barrier … just because you take a course and can carry a gun doesn’t mean you can use it.”

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF MICHIGAN ENACT: Sec. 5o. (1) Subject to subsection (4), an individual licensed under this act to carry a concealed pistol, or who is exempt from licensure under section 12a(1)(f), shall not carry a concealed pistol on the premises of any of the following: (a) A school or school property … (b) A public or private child care center or day care center … (c) A sports arena or stadium …

Johnson added he does not believe a student carrying a concealed weapon could stop an armed assailant in the classroom. He cites research in policerelated shootings that have found the probability of a police officer who is highly trained in the use of firearms in hitting or striking and stopping an armed assailant to be relatively low. “These police officers have hours and hours of training often based on dynamic environments (moving and shooting at the same time) and not static (standing still and shooting at a non-moving target) where they are taught to move and shoot and to reload and to properly identify and stop threats,” he said.

See Guns, A2

(d) A bar or tavern licensed under the Michigan liquor control code of … (e) Any property or facility owned or operated by a church, synagogue, mosque, temple, or other place of worship … (f) An entertainment facility with a seating capacity of 2,500 or more individuals … (g) A hospital. (h) A dormitory or classroom of a community college, college, or university. Visit http://www.legislature.mi.gov/ documents/20092010/billintroduced/ Senate/htm/2009-SIB-0747.htm to read the full text of Senate Bill No. 747.

Senate Bill No. 747

buildings. Grand Valley State University President Thomas J. Haas, who leads GVL Staff the Presidents Council, said, “All Someone walks into your classroom 15 presidents and chancellors of with a gun and threatens to open fire. Michigan’s public universities favor Your best defense is to try to escape the current law that bans firearms and the room or take out your cell phone weapons on campus.” and call for help, but under a proposed If Michigan change to Michigan legislation, legislation is changed you may have to permit concealed another weapons in college to option. d e e classrooms and n Sparked “You ty i l dorms, GVSU i b a by the he would still have t lly shoot shooting be able to at Virginia ctua a t defi ne its own s o t u Tech in 2007, e. ... J e weapon policy n o e Michigan m k o s a t through the u o y Sen. Randy e s student code, u a Richardville, bec d “State n a R-Monroe, has urse o legislation c n a proposed a change provides a ry a gu ou r a c to Michigan law n a y c baseline ean to allow permit m t ’ of safety,” n s holders to carry doe said Tom ” . t concealed weapons se i u Butcher, n a c on college campuses. University Currently, the T C ounsel. T O H open carry of weapons INGS K “ T h e N A is permitted anywhere, IATE BRI university SSOC A U S so long as the owner GV can add SSOR has a license to own the PROFE gun. Concealed carry is additional prohibited in churches, safety precautions.” sports arenas, taverns, Reid Smith, Michigan state hospitals, casinos, day director of Concealed Campus, cares and college campuses including a nation-wide organization in dorms and classrooms, according to favor of carrying concealed the Michigan State Police. weapons on campus, said Richardville would like to amend there is no reason not the law to remove the clause prohibiting to allow concealed the carry of concealed weapons on weapons on college college campuses, saying it would campuses as they make campuses safer if students were have typically prepared to defend themselves. been a target of On June 19, Michigan State violent crime. University’s Board of Trustees voted 7-1 to allow individuals with concealed weapons permits to carry a firearm through campus. Guns remain prohibited from MSU campus

By Jenny Whalen and Lauren Fitch

State Laws for Concealed Carry There are 24 states that expressly prohibit carry on college campuses by persons with a valid concealed handgun license/ permit. Fifteen “Right-to-Carry” states leave the decision of concealed carry on college campuses entirely to each college/university.

INDEX

News......................................................A3 State / Nation........................................................A4 Opinion.........................................................A5 Laker Life.............................................................A6

Sports...........................................................B1 A&E.........................................................B4 Marketplace................................................B5

NEWS

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Grand Valley Lanthorn

Remembering 9/11 American flags will fill GVSU’s Van Steeland Arboretum Friday to remember victims of Sept. 11 By Paul LeBlanc GVL Staff Writer

The Grand Valley State University Student Senate will commemorate the eighth anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon with an array of memorial ﬂags in the arboretum. “September 11 is a day to honor anyone who was involved in the plane crashes,

and (we, as student senators) try to be as supportive as possible and help make the day as honorable as we can,” said Lauren Levy, Student Senate vice president of public relations. The display will stand for the entire day and will also include a playing of taps at each minute a plane struck a building eight years ago. pleblanc@lanthorn.com

GVL Archive / Mary Rea

Honor: In the Allendale VanSteeland Arboretum on Sept. 11 in a past year, this red, white, and blue wreath rested among some of the ﬂags that were displayed to honor the 2,996 victims of 9/11. The GVSU Student Senate will commemorate the victims of 9/11 again this year with an array of memorial ﬂags.

Courtesy Photo / www.google.com

Remember: Tribute lights illuminate the sky at Ground Zero in New York City to commemorate Sept. 11.

Guns continued from page A1

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Grand Valley Lanthorn Volume 44, Number 5 The Grand Valley Lanthorn is published twice-weekly by Grand Valley State University students 62 times a year. One copy of this newspaper is available free of charge to any member of the Grand Valley Community. For additional copies, please contact our business offices. POSTMASTER: Please send form 3579 to Grand Valley Lanthorn, 0051 Kirkhof, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, MI, 49401

EDITORIAL STAFF

Editor in Chief JENNY WHALEN Managing Editor LAUREN FITCH Assistant News Editor CHELSEA LANE Sports Editor MATT KUZAWA Arts and Entertainment Editor HALEY OTMAN Laker Life Editor SUSIE SKOWRONEK Photography Editor LUKE HOTWAGNER

Brandon DeHaan, assistant director of the Department of Public Safety, also noted the difference in training between armed officers and citizens with concealed weapons permits. “Individuals who have not been trained often lose motor skills in times of high stress and can hurt themselves,” DeHaan said. “It is our duty for police officers to respond. We have a duty to protect and a duty to serve.” While DeHaan said DPS officers receive two blocks of ongoing firearm training on a yearly basis, renewal for a concealed weapon permit is required every four to five years through a written statement saying the owner has reviewed the safety training course and spent one hour on range practice within the previous six months. “One of the biggest things they stress to you (during the class) is you can only use the firearm to protect yourself and your loved ones,” Smith said. Chris Hollis, the GVSU representative for Concealed Campus, has been teaching concealed permit classes for more than a year at the Silver Bullet Firearms Indoor Range and Training Center of Wyoming, Mich. “People go through a lot to be able to carry in the first place,” Hollis, a GVSU junior who spent five years in the Marine Corps, said. “Just because they’re students doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be able to carry, especially in an area that has been targeted for violence.” Julie Yunker, director of the GVSU training center for the school of criminal justice, said she believes the safety of GVSU students would stay the

Assistant Photo Editor BRIAN SEVALD Copy Editors JESSICA PAWLOWSKI EMILY HOSS Layout Editor MARIANA SAUCEDO Layout Staff ANDREA COLF JOEY SALAMON Web TEAM JON ROOST CJ RAFTERY ERIN VICKERS JOSH KOVACH

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Advertising Manager LINDSAY PARKINSON Assistant Advertising Manager REBECCA DEBONO Advertising Reps DANIEL DELAMIELLEURE MINDY BLUHM Advertising Designers MATT TYNDALL VALENTINA VALDES

same if Richardville’s proposed legislation passed. “I believe that having persons legally armed on campus (students and professors) could make a signiﬁcant impact in a situation such as Virginia Tech or Northern Illinois University,” Yunker said. “Again, it’s a matter of circumstance, however … My personal opinion is that legally owned and carried guns give people a greater sense of security and perhaps slightly deter those who would be tempted to make them their victims.” Concealed weapon permit holders are not given special protection from the law if they use their weapon for anything beside self-defense. Smith has had a concealed weapon permit for one year and has never used his gun; though he said there were a couple times he was glad he was armed. “From my experience, the reaction people have (to the proposed legislation) is to think college students are party animals with an ‘act ﬁrst, think later’ mentality,” Smith said. “Why would we give them guns? If the state thinks I’m responsible enough to carry a gun in a grocery store or movie theater, I don’t become more dangerous on a campus.” In response to concerns about combining alcohol with carrying concealed weapons, Smith noted it is illegal to carry a gun with a blood alcohol level above 0.02. He compared restricting the concealed carry of weapons because of possible alcohol-related risks to taking away students’ cars on the chance they would drink and drive. Smith summed up the reasoning behind allowing concealed weapons on campus adding, “It’s better to have (a gun) and not need it than need it BUSINESS STAFF

Business Manager ERIC LEE Assistant Business Manager FERRIS JUMAH Distribution DAVE BABCOCK JEFF DIMITRIEVSKI CHRIS ROWELL MATT MCMURRY Receptionists KIM SANDERS CARIAN WHITE Faculty Adviser LAWRENCE BEERY

and not have it.” However, Johnson said he is concerned by what affect the mere presence of firearms in the classroom will have on students and faculty, regardless of whether or not a shot is ever fired. “A learning environment of fear and intimidation would create an unsettling atmosphere in the classroom for both students and faculty,” Johnson said. “Knowing that there are armed individuals in a classroom could be very unsettling for many students causing psychological distress and altering the learning environment.” Darin Goens, Michigan’s state liaison for the National Rifle Association, could not be reached as of press time but did voice the NRA’s support for Senate Bill 747 in an Aug. 21 press release posted on Richardville’s Senate Web site. “The National Rifle Association doesn’t believe in arbitrary boundaries, and we look forward to working with the Michigan Legislature to protect the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding gun owners everywhere,” Goens said in the release. “If law-abiding gun owners go through the scrutiny, extensive background checks, training and all the legal channels to obtain a right-to-carry permit, they should be able to carry those firearms.” Sens. Cameron S. Brown, R-Fawn River Township; Alan Cropsey, R-DeWitt; Mark Jansen, R-Gaines Township; Michelle McManus, R-Lake Leelanau; Bruce Patterson, R-Canton; and Jim Barcia, D-Bay City; co-sponsored the legislation. The bill has been referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee for further consideration. news@lanthorn.com The Grand Valley Lanthorn is published under the authorization of the GVSU Newspaper Advisory Board.

Corrections

At the Lanthorn we strive to bring you the most accurate news possible. If we make a mistake, we want to make it right. If you find any errors of fact in the Lanthorn, let us know by calling (616) 331-2464 or by e-mailing editorial@lanthorn.com.

NEWS

Chelsea Lane, Assistant News Editor assistantnews@lanthorn.com

GVL DIGEST News in Brief

Stimulus funds help nanotechnology study

Grand Valley State University’s School of Engineering has been awarded a $200,000 grant by the National Science Foundation. The grant will support an ongoing project to integrate nanotechnology into GVSU’s undergraduate engineering and science education programs. The project is being directed by professors Lihong (Heidi) Jiao and Nael. A. Barakat, who aim to develop a two-course sequence which will cover the fundamentals of nanotechnology and advanced nanosystem engineering.

University to host carbon economy seminar

GVSU’s Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center and the Michigan Small Business Technology Development Center will co-host a free seminar to introduce the public to the theories, economics and business models linked to carbon regulation and trading. There will also be discussion on why carbon reduction is necessary and advice on practical reduction strategies. The seminar, “Coming to Terms with a Carbon Constrained Economy,” is scheduled to take place today from 8:30-11:30 a.m. at MAREC, located at 200 Viridian Drive in Muskegon, Mich.

Local artists to participate in ArtPrize competition

More than 20 artists with links to GVSU will participate in the upcoming ArtPrize competition, which will run from Sept. 23 through Oct. 10. GVSU has also been chosen as one of 14 voting registration sites for the competition, where fans can vote for their favorite artist. Ten winners will receive cash prizes, including a top prize of $250,000. The work of 10 artists, including university faculty and alumni, will be exhibited at outdoor sites throughout Pew Campus. Each of the artists has also been invited to take part in a panel discussion at Loosemore Auditorium Sept. 27 from 1-3 p.m. Admission to the event is free and open to the public.

GVSU earns high marks for LGBT-friendly campus

The national nonprofit organization Campus Pride awarded GVSU a four-andone-half stars out of five rating on its LGBT Friendly Campus Climate Index. The rating is based on results of an internal survey by the LGBT Resource Center that polled university departments on efforts to create a welcoming and accepting environment for LGBT students. “This is a huge step forward for theGrandValleycommunity and West Michigan,” said Milt Ford, director of the LGBT Resource Center. Only 18 universities in the country received a five-star rating this year. Prior to the new study, GVSU held a threestar rating.

University Libraries first to provide Web searching tool

GVSU’s University Libraries will be the first to adopt a new Web discovery service known as Summon. The service was introduced at the American Library Association’s annual conference in Chicago. Summon simplifies the search function of the university libraries’ more than 250 databases by using a single point of entry. Serial Solutions, a global leader in e-resource access and management for libraries is the creator of Summon. The Summon search box will be placed on the center of the library’s home page at http://www.gvsu.edu/library. The single search box has access to GVSU’s entire collection of books, newspaper and journal articles, scholarship holdings and archival collections.

Grand Valley Lanthorn Thursday, September 10, 2009

GV honors Seidman’s legacy Past, present, future members of community will remember William Seidman’s impact on GVSU accounting firm Seidman and Seidman and was president of WZZM GVL Staff Writer –TV. Later in 1974, he served in In a 1991 press release, William the White House under Gerald R. Seidman said he did not believe in Ford’s administration as an economic legacies. advisor. “My father used to say, ‘Put your In 1985, Ronald Regan appointed hand in that bucket of water and then him to head the Federal Deposit take it out,’” Seidman wrote. “‘Do Insurance Corporation and Seidman you see where anything’s been there? retained that post through President That’s the way life is.’” George W. H. Bush’s administration. Ironic, considering the wake of It was under the BushAdministration prominence following Seidman’s when Congress also put him in charge recent passing in New Mexico in of the Resolution Trust Corp. May. Seidman played a cardinal role Eighty-eight-year-old Seidman in founding and establishing Grand died from natural causes and is Valley State University in 1958 when survived by his wife, six children and he formed a committee to create the 11 grandchildren. college, fueled by the Born April 19, notion West Michigan “He was a 1921 in Grand Rapids, needed a public Mich., Seidman was a thoughtful person university of its own. high school graduate He believed by who was very of the East Grand establishing GVSU, he proud of what Rapids school system could help keep young and received his GVSU had people in Michigan. undergraduate degree GVSU President become ... ” from Dartmouth Thomas J. Haas College. recalled that on their THOMAS J. HAAS He proceeded to first meeting, he GVSU PRESIDENT get his LLB from noticed Seidman was a Harvard and his MBA passionate man whose from the University of dedication and pride in Michigan’s Ross School of Business. GVSU ran deep. Seidman also served in the U.S. Navy “He was a thoughtful person who as a communications officer, receiving was very proud of what GVSU had the Bronze Star for his work on a become and excited about our future destroyer ship. as we continued to develop,” Haas Seidman went on to become the said. “Mr. Seidman set the tone for managing partner of the international access and affordability as he knew

By Anya Zentmeyer

GVL Archive / Ashley Comstock

Legend: Former Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Chairman L. William Seidman discusses competition and Michigan’s economy in his lecture, “What in the World is Going On?” in a past segment of the Seidman Breakfast Series. Seidman will be remembered in a memorial on Friday.

our region needed a public university to reach its potential. Quality and excellence would make us relevant and provide students what they wanted in their college choice.” GVSU opened in 1963 with only 226 students and 14 faculty members, but has climbed quickly to almost 25,000 students and 700 faculty members in the last 50 years. Although he spent much of his time traveling, Seidman always kept his finger on the pulse of GVSU, taking part in the 2008 Seidman College of Business Breakfast Series where he discussed the current economic crisis and his opinions on the 2008

presidential race. Haas said while Seidman was predominantly a family man, his ties to GVSU remained bold and unbreakable. “When his son called me with the sad news of Bill’s passing, he made a reference that his dad passed quietly,” Haas said. “But he did share before he died that the singularly most important contribution he made in his life —and there were many, in my words — was to help establish GVSU. An on-campus memorial service will be held for Seidman at 3 p.m. Friday in the Performing Arts Center. azentmeyer@lanthorn.com

Increased patrols net 29 MIPs during move-in Youth Alcohol Enforcement grant helps local police fund enforcement of underage drinking laws at high-party times The Holland and Ottawa sheriff departments and GVL Assistant News Editor Department of Public Safety As the school year gets into are all shared beneficiaries full swing at Grand Valley of the grant. Police must reState University after a long apply for the grant every year summer, the warm weather if they want to receive any and surge of popular on- program funding. The current campus events can often lead cycle, which had awarded to more after-hours partying the departments just under and drinking. But with Youth $10,000, runs until Sept. 30. Alcohol Enforcement, they The grant is usually can also lead to more police. activated around dates of Youth Alcohol special events when police Enforcement is a grant from anticipate there will be a the Office of Highway Safety high likelihood of drinking, Planning such as sports “If you take providing games, dances police with underage drinkers and other extra funds school-wide they can utilize out of the equation, f u n c t i o n s . to help enforce you will often reduce W e e k e n d s underage the other criminal with warm drinking weather also activity.” laws. The usually point grant program BRANDON DEHAAN to an increased began in 2002 ASSISTANT DIRECTOR number of in response DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC parties and to a large and SAFETY drinking and destructive therefore, an off-campus party that took increased number of patrols. place in 2001 and resulted Capt. Brandon DeHaan, in several fights as well as assistant director of DPS, said damage to nearby cars and past research shows underage buildings. alcohol consumption can

By Chelsea Lane

lead to larceny, violence and destructive behavior. “We want our students to know that behavior is unacceptable,” he said. “If you take underage drinkers out of the equation, you will often reduce the other criminal activity.” According to the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, 95 percent of all violent campus crime and 90 percent of all instances of sexual assault at colleges involve use of alcohol by the assailant and/or victim. In addition, a 2002 study showed 48 percent of all alcohol use reported by college students is attributable to underage drinkers. Larceny and malicious destruction of property are the two most common oncampus crimes at GVSU. DeHaan said he believes the Youth Alcohol Enforcement grant helps to reduce these problems and meet students’ expectations for a safe, secure and clean campus. The grant was activated for the first time during the new school year during

GVL / Brian B. Sevald

Party watch: Thanks to a grant from the Office of Highway Safety Planning, more police can be present on the streets during special events.

move-in weekend. Twentynine MIPs were issued to individuals, 22 of whom were GVSU students. In addition, three people were arrested on campus for resisting and opposing university police. The reason for initial police contact in all three incidents was alcohol-related. But most incidents that weekend happened offcampus, with the Ottawa County Sheriff Department issuing 19 MIPs, two citations for marijuana possession and one probation violation. It is not yet known if any of the individuals charged were GVSU students.

In addition to monitoring potential on-campus conflicts, the stepped-up patrols are also intended to discourage students from driving while intoxicated and to decrease the number of alcohol-related crashes. “Whether you’ve had way too many or just one too many, it’s not worth the risk,” said OHSP director Michael L. Prince in a press release. “There is no justification for driving drunk, and Michigan law enforcement won’t be accepting any excuses. Get caught driving drunk and you’ll be going to jail.” assistantnews@lanthorn.com

Changes to bus routes garner negative reaction the same amount of time now, even though now I live five minutes away,” Bennett said. Changes made to Grand Valley Kelsey Lange, a senior at GVSU, State University’s campus bus system agreed. for the fall semester have led to some “At night, I’m tired and I just want complaints and confusion among to go home, and I have to wait with student riders. hordes of other students for the bus,” The changes include the merging Lange said. of the two off-campus routes, Route Other student concerns include 48 and Route 37, after 6:30 p.m. on buses becoming weekdays. overcrowded. “At night, I’m tired Additionally, each “After my 6 p.m. individual bus must and I just want to to 9 p.m. class, the now double as an buses are extremely go home, and I off-campus shuttle crowded,” said Chris as well as a Route have to wait with Slattery, a junior at 50, which transports GVSU. hordes of other students between the Erin Babson, students for the Pew and Allendale Manager of Operations campuses, during bus.” at GVSU’s Pew the evening hours. Campus and Regional Previously, buses had KELSEY LANGE Centers, coordinates one designated route. GVSU SENIOR GVSU’s affairs with Student complaints The Rapid bus system. include the changes She said the recent have made the bus changes to the bus system run slower than in previous system are related to tightening semesters. operating costs. Anna Bennett, a junior at GVSU, “As fuel costs have gone up and said waiting times seem excessively university budgets have tightened, we long. have tried really hard to get creative “When I lived in Walker, (Mich.) and find ways to increase service to I had to wait a half an hour for the students without spending additional bus before class, and I have to wait budget dollars,” Babson said. “(The

By Paul LeBlanc GVL Staff Writer

changes were) one of those ways because ridership is so much less after about 6:30 at night.” Babson said the changes have allowed for the number of bus stops to remain the same, while at the same time reducing costs to the school. Additionally, Babson went on to note the heightened levels of traffic on the roads during the first week of classes and her belief that waiting times between bus stops would be reduced as traffic settles down.

“We always ask people to be patient the first week or so because so many people are on Campus Drive and coming to campus ... and traffic is a lot more,” Babson said. When asked if she would consider reversing the changes made to the bus system, Babson was hesitant to respond, noting doing so might require the number of buses be reduced. pleblanc@lanthorn.com

GVL Archive / Lindsey Waggoner

Tightened routes: Students wait outside the Kirkhof Center for the bus. The Route 50 Campus Connector now doubles as an off-campus apartment shuttle after 6:30 p.m. on weekdays.

Grand Valley Lanthorn Thursday, September 10, 2009

GVL DIGEST Michigan in Brief

Detroit man charged with dismembering man’s body

DETROIT (AP) — Prosecutors say a man dismembered a corpse and burned it before hiding the pieces in a freezer in the basement of a Detroit home. Forty-one-year-old Darryl Lewis of Detroit was charged Tuesday with mutilating a corpse, a 10-year felony. He was arraigned in 36th District Court. The Detroit Free Press reports prosecutors say additional charges could come but the results of an autopsy still are pending. Police say the dismembered body of a 58-year-old man was found Friday in a freezer in a home on Detroit’s east side. It is not known if Lewis has a lawyer.

Business groups argue against tax increases

EAST LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Gov. Jennifer Granholm has released a plan to cut spending by more than $550 million while raising that much in additional revenue to fill a shortfall in the general fund. The governor put out written details Tuesday on how she would close a $1.8 billion general fund in the budget year that starts Oct. 1. Her plan includes trimming some business tax breaks, including the film credits. It also would lessen an increase in a tax credit for the working poor, increase liquor license fees, expand the 6 percent sales tax to live entertainment, service contracts and vending machine sales and raise the cigarette tax rate to $2.25 a pack, among other changes. Her comments came after several Michigan business organizations said they want lawmakers to cut spending and improve government efficiency rather than raise taxes.

STATE / NATION

lanthorn@gvsu.edu

Thousands participate in Mackinac Bridge walk Labor Day tradition draws governor, 50,000 local, international visitors to Mackinac Bridge Authority. “What a beautiful place AP Writer to be,” said Joyce Mixer, 71, MACKINAW CITY, celebrating her 50th wedding Mich. (AP) — Gov. Jennifer anniversary with husband Granholm renewed two Lewis Mixer. The couple of Michigan’s Labor Day honeymooned in the Straits of traditions Monday: crossing Mackinac area in 1959, then the Mackinac Bridge and had long careers as teachers doing so at a leisurely pace in Grand Blanc before retiring instead of running. to Greer, S.C. “We did the Wearing faded jeans and bridge walk once before — 30 a gray T-shirt, Granholm years ago,” Joyce Mixer said. joined about “This was the 50,000 people “I’m a walker. I perfect time to in the annual do it again.” walk every day. trek across By custom, The only thing the 5-milethe governor long span that keeps me has led the that links the walk since from walking is state’s upper G. Mennen lightning.” and lower “ S o a p y ” peninsulas Williams DAGMAR BROWN where Lakes accompanied 50-TIME BRIDGE WALKER Huron and a small group Michigan over the newly converge. completed The first wave took off bridge in 1958. But Granholm, at 7 a.m., just before the sun a fitness buff, added a unique emerged above a hazy bank of twist her first year in office by clouds on the eastern horizon. taking it at a run. She has done Throngs were still streaming likewise since, achieving a across at midday, basking personal best in 2008 by in late summer warmth and finishing in 35 minutes, 27 gentle breezes. seconds. The usual 11 a.m. This time, like her deadline for getting started predecessors, she strolled was extended a couple of across to accommodate her hours because of a flood of aunt and uncle, Ron and late arrivals and two vehicle Jacquie Granholm, who were breakdowns that temporarily visiting from Vancouver, snarled traffic, said Bob British Columbia. Sweeney, executive secretary “I loved it,” said Jacquie of the Mackinac Bridge Granholm, 74. “I’m glad

By John Flesher

we’re healthy enough to do it.” The governor’s 12-yearold son, Jack, joined her while husband Dan Mulhern was among 331 participants in the Mackinac Bridge Labor Day Run, which started just ahead of the walk. “This is just a one-time break,” Granholm said after reaching the south end of the bridge in Mackinaw City, where she posed for pictures and signed dozens of autographs. “Next year, which will be my last as governor, I’ll be running again.” As usual, the walk attracted an array of organizations — labor unions, Boy Scout troops, church youth groups. All age groups were represented, from infants in strollers to adults in their 90s. Clayton Klein, 91, of Fowlerville, included the walk in his planned hike from Paradise to Hell — both Michigan towns about 300 miles apart — to raise money for hospice programs. Cass City resident Dagmar Brown made the crossing for the 50th time. “I’m a walker. I walk every day,” the 87-year-old Brown said. “The only thing that keeps me from walking is lightning.” Walkers hailed from states as distant as California, Massachusetts and Georgia. And the Granholms weren’t

AP Photo / John L. Russell

Celebratory strides: Thousands of walkers enter Mackinaw City, Mich., as they cross the five-mile span of the Mackinac Bridge during the 52nd annual Labor Day Bridge Walk, Monday. Labor Day is the only day pedestrians are allowed on the span, which connects Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas.

the only international visitors: Others were on hand from the Czech Republic, Belgium, Indonesia and Germany. “It is very awesome — and a little bit scary,”

admitted Bagus Cahya, 16, an exchange student from Sumatra, Indonesia. “At the top of the bridge, my heart was beating very fast. But it is a great experience.”

Obama steers clear of politics in back-to-school address President promotes education, perseverance amid accusations of trying to sell political agenda By Julie Pace Associated Press Writer

ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — In a pep talk that kept clear of politics, President Barack Obama on Tuesday challenged the nation’s students to take

pride and ownership in their education — and stick with it even if they don’t like every class or must overcome tough circumstances at home. “Every single one of you has something that you’re good at. Every single one of you has

something to offer,” Obama told students at Wakefield High School in suburban Arlington, Va., and children watching his speech on television in schools across the country. “And you have a responsibility to yourself to discover what that is.” Presidents often visit schools, and Obama was not the first one to offer a back-toschool address aimed at millions of students in every grade. Yet this speech came with a dose of controversy, as several conservative organizations and many concerned parents warned Obama was trying to sell his political agenda. That concern was caused in part by an accompanying administration lesson plan encouraging students to “help the president,” which the White House later revised. Obama preceded his broadscale talk with a meeting with Wakefield students, where at one point he advised them to “be careful what you post on Facebook. Whatever you do, it will be pulled up again later somewhere in your life.” Obama, accompanied by Education Secretary Arne Duncan, met with some 40 students gathered in a school library before the speech carried on ESPN and on the White House Web site. “When I was your age,” Obama said, “I was a little bit of a goof-off. My main goal was to get on the varsity basketball team and have fun.” The uproar over his speech followed him across the Potomac River, as his motorcade was greeted by a small band of protesters. One carried a sign exclaiming: “Mr. President, stay away from our

kids.” “He ended up doing so During his meeting inside, much and changed the world one young person asked why the just by the power of his ethics,” country doesn’t have universal Obama said of the inspirational health insurance. “I think we leader Mahatma Gandhi. At need it. I think we can do it,” another point, Obama told the Obama replied. The president students that “a lot of people are said the country can afford to counting on me.” insure all Americans and that Obama proceeded later doing so will save money in the with the speech the White long run. House had released a day Obama is not the first early, virtually unchanged. president to give such a school- The school he chose as the opening talk, but his plans setting for his talk — Wakefield seemed to almost immediately — is the most economically get plunged in controversy. and racially diverse school in Critics accused him of Arlington County, according to overstepping his authority, and the Department of Education. school districts in some areas Nearly 40 percent of graduating decided not to provide their seniors pass an Advanced students access Placement test. to his midday That’s more “Whatever you speech. than twice resolve to do, Duncan the national acknowledged average. I want you to Tuesday that “There is commit to it. The some of the no excuse for truth is, being prepared not trying” guidance for he said in the successful is hard.” school officials speech. He said included a students must BARACK OBAMA suggestion be individually U.S. PRESIDENT that students responsible for could compose their education, essays stating and that it’s how they could help support important to work hard, pay Obama — an idea the education attention in school and complete secretary acknowledged was assignments. wrongheaded. “Whatever you resolve to In his conversation with the do, I want you to commit to Wakefield students, Obama said it,” Obama said. “The truth is, that not having a father at home being successful is hard. You “forced me to grow up faster.” won’t love every subject that One young person asked you study. You won’t click with the president whom he would every teacher that you have. At choose to dine with if he could the end of the day, we can have make only one such selection. the most dedicated teachers, the “Gandhi,” Obama replied. most supportive parents and “He’s somebody I find a lot of the best schools in the world, inspiration in. He inspired Dr. and none of it will matter (Martin Luther) King” with his unless all of you fulfill your message of nonviolence. responsibilities.”

AP Photo / M. Spencer Green

Watching Obama: From left, Eduardo Balvino, Christal Gale, and Justin Fortney, sixth grade students at Anne Fox Elementary School listen to President Barack Obama’s televised speech on education, Tuesday, in Hanover Park, Ill.

OPINION

editorial@lanthorn.com

Grand Valley Lanthorn Thursday, September 10, 2009

EDITORIAL CARTOON

EDITORIAL

Gun-free campus Allowing faculty and students to carry concealed weapons on campus will not only threaten the safety, but also compromise the learning and living atmosphere of the university community. On Aug. 21 Sen. Randy Richardville, R-Monroe, introduced bipartisan legislation to allow permit holders to carry concealed weapons on college campuses in Michigan. Richardville believes the passage of this law will make college campuses safer. It might, but few states have been brave enough to test such a theory. At present, 30 states prohibit the carrying of concealed weapons on campus and only Utah has ever passed a “guns on campus” law, according to Students for Concealed Carry on Campus The college experience is stressful enough without the added pressure of knowing your lab partner is packing heat or watching the tip of your professor’s .45 peek out every time he or she takes off a jacket. It does not take extensive research to realize firearms are not conducive to education. The classroom is a learning environment, which offers insight on many topics and should serve as a forum for non-threatening debate. How many questions and opinions will be silenced by fear should guns be brought into the classroom? And college classrooms are not the only areas affected by Richardville’s law. Should Michigan pass Senate Bill 747, dormitories and residence halls must also allow concealed weapons within their walls. One would hope individuals who keep firearms in their campus homes do so with a heightened sense of security, but such precautions cannot always be guaranteed. Would you trust your roommate, or your roommate’s friends with a gun? Larceny is the No. 1 crime on the Allendale and Pew campuses, according to the Department of Public Safety, and while student gun owners might prefer their guns stolen rather than their laptops, the resale of a stolen gun can have more serious consequences than a stolen laptop. Richardville cites Virginia Tech as an example of when tragedy could have been prevented had students had the means (concealed weapons) to protect themselves. By ignoring every “what if” accompanying this belief, one might agree with the senator. However, it is the “what ifs” that make the concept of guns on campus absurd. Even if an individual should choose to attack an area where concealed weapons are present, the concealed weapon holders must have accuracy, training and no qualms about shooting another human being. The current CCW training program in Michigan in no way equips a gun owner with the skills necessary to participate in a gun fight. There is a big difference between successfully hitting a non-moving, paper target and hitting a living target that is not only moving but also returning fire. Police officers undergo extensive training to overcome the psychological barrier of shooting another human being and are trained for the chaos of a gun fight. Owning and carrying a gun is a right, but higher education is a privilege. Guns on campus may promote the right, but they will sour the privilege.

The student-run newspaper of Grand Valley State University

Editorial Page Board Jenny Whalen Eric Lee Lauren Fitch Chelsea Lane

Editor in Chief Business Manager Managing Editor Assistant News Editor

Valley Vote Should undocumented immigrants be eligible for insurance coverage?

Yes: 12.90% This week’s question: Should smoking be banned in Michigan’s bars and restaurants?

No: 87.10% Vote online at Lanthorn.com

GVL OPINION POLICY The ultimate goal of the Grand Valley Lanthorn opinion page is to stimulate discussion and action on topics of interest to the Grand Valley Community. Student opinions do not reﬂect those of the Grand Valley Lanthorn. The Grand Valley Lanthorn welcomes reader viewpoints and offers three vehicles of expression for reader opinions: letters to the editor, guest columns and phone responses. Letters must include the author’s name and be accompanied by current picture identiﬁcation if dropped off in person. Letters will be checked by an employee of the Grand Valley Lanthorn. Letters appear as space permits each

issue. The limit for letter length is one page, single spaced. The editor reserves the right to edit and condense letters and columns for length restrictions and clarity. All letters must be typed. The Grand Valley Lanthorn will not be held responsible for errors that appear in print as a result of transcribing handwritten letters or e-mail typographic errors. The name of the author may be withheld for compelling reasons. The content, information and views expressed are not approved by nor necessarily represent those of the university, its Board of Trustees, ofﬁcers, faculty and staff.

GVL / Jacob Bowen

YOUR INSIGHTS

Which club are you most looking forward to after Campus Life Night Life?

“I’m looking forward to Out ‘n About because I was president of the GSA (Gay-Straight Alliance) at my high school. I think it’s important to be involved with the LGBT community.”

“I’m interested in Grand Valley Students for a Peaceful Africa because I know a lot of people in the group, and they do a lot of nice things.”

“The Cycling Club because I really like riding my bike, and I was in it the first year I was here.”

“I’d have to say belly dancing club because I didn’t even know we had one.”

“Hillel because I’m Jewish and I have some friends in the organization.”

Elizabeth Liquigley Freshman Psychology and Women & Gender Studies Grand Rapids, Mich.

Thomas Rogers Sophomore Cellular Molecular Biology Birmingham, Mich.

Laura Baltazar Senior English, Seconday Education Buchanan, Mich.

Elizabeth Harvey Senior Advertising Grand Rapids, Mich.

Tony Moore Freshman Pre-Engineering Farmington Hills, Mich.

GVL STUDENT OPINION

Internships — making the cut Patricia Saenz GVL Columnist

One of the main reasons we are attending college is to be able to get a job with a promising future. Things such as trips into the ravines, football games and Presidents’ Ball are just add-ons to our college experience. What we are really looking for is that diploma which is our ticket into the working world. At least it used to be. What students are ﬁnding out is that once they ﬁnish their degree, their diploma isn’t the only thing employers are expecting. A lot of employers need to see that you have professional experience just to consider your resume. Student

leadership and being active on campus can show an employer you are responsible, but the sure-fire way to show experience is to have an internship under your belt before you graduate. That seems simple enough, right? Just find some time during the school year to work for a company, earn a few bucks and pick up some experience along the way. That arrangement sounds like a pretty cushy deal, but only if you can get an internship. This lull in the economy is not only hitting us hard in our education costs, but it is also making it more difficult for students to find internships. One of the first things companies cut is their intern positions, and many companies are either canceling their programs or in a hiring

freeze. Even unpaid internships are not a safe bet. At this point many students would pay a company to get experience on their resume. You might even have to step outside your academic area to ﬁnd the experience you need. Last week I accepted an internship at the Williams Group. Although my academic focus is international business and economics, I ﬁnd my new communications internship will help me get the professional experience I need. So if you are following, if you want a job after graduation, you need an internship to even be considered. However, internships are limited, so hundreds of students are going out for the same position, not only from Grand Valley State

University, but from the surrounding schools and even schools that are a few hours away. From what I am describing it seems it is almost impossible to get an internship, but that is not the message I am trying to get across. This limited number of internships just means we have to step up our game in academic performance, get a reality check on what types of internships are actually out there and start our search for an internship as early as possible. Some student leadership experience wouldn’t hurt either. Perhaps you won’t ﬁnd a paid internship at Steelcase on your resume, but an unpaid internship at a smaller ﬁrm can get you the experience you need to help you get that job you want once you graduate. psaenz@lanthorn.com

Zombie mayhem in classical literature Nicole Avery GVL Columnist

Is it possible, or are my eyes deceiving me? Nope. It’s true and there has been a permanent smirk on my face all week long while I’ve been reading “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies” by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith — a fantastical redoing that enhances a timeless classic by introducing zombie mayhem. Whether it was from a traditional English class, a BBC special, or that adventurous wellread Jack Russell dog re-enactment from the PBS show “Wishbone,” almost everyone has heard of this classic must-read tale. I am an avid reader and love the classics. Like many other young girls I was charmed by

Austen’s handsome man of few words, Mr. Darcy. Yet everyone isn’t as enthusiastic as I am about classic literature — some people just aren’t that geeky. I attribute my extreme nerd behavior to personal preference or different strokes for different folks, as my dad would say. One of the main reasons I am enjoying “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies” so much is because it represents that commonly felt exasperation when you are struggling to get through thousands of pages of Ayn Rand, Charles Dickens, John Steinbeck or Herman Melville — which is exactly why what Grahame-Smith does with Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” is so important. Grahame-Smith is able to change the way the reader relates to this particular book and draw in a crowd that would otherwise

never be exposed to what I consider essential reading. The only major setback to this novel is that many people will think that Grahame-Smith is deﬁling a classic by interjecting gore and hand-to-hand combat into an already “perfect” novel. Changing the novel seems almost insulting, disrespectful or some other sort of negativism that distracts from the authorial intent of the novel. I look at it this way: My mother has cooked spaghetti the same way for years. I’ve always loved it, but when I moved out to Grand Valley State University for school I had to learn to cook for myself. I began to experiment with new ways to make a homemade spaghetti sauce. Guess what? It’s scrumptiously delicious. Just because I came up with my own way to cook

the recipe doesn’t mean I would no longer eat the dish the way my mother prepares it. I like it both ways. I feel the same way about “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies,” because though I have read the original, I ﬁnd this version even more enjoyable and I am left with the feeling that even if I hadn’t read the original beforehand, I would be curious and would read it. You can enjoy something old by making it new. Everyone does it. Bands make covers of old songs, and Disney steals all their ideas from cultural folklore. It’s exactly the same and shouldn’t be so frowned upon. navery@lanthorn.com

See more: Visit Lanthorn.com for Jeremy Troy’s column.

Grand Valley Lanthorn Thursday, September 10, 2009

LAKER LIFE

Susie Skowronek, Laker Life Editor lakerlife@lanthorn.com

Hispanic Heritage Month diversifies GVSU Four-week celebration educates students about Hispanic culture, customs American migration is caused by factors not related to the U.S. GVL Staff Writer Several prominent national When leaves change colors and speakers will discuss issues related to crisp fall air overtakes the warm days Hispanic heritage during the various of summer, students can expect not events of the month. only trick-or-treating and turkeys, but Filmmaker Barbara Martinez also Latin American festivities. Jitner will talk about her documentary, Hispanic Heritage Month takes “Wall of Shadows,” which exposed place from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. crime and corruption in Juarez, “Latinos are an integral part of Mexico, as part of the Professionals our U.S. society and have made of Color Lecture Series. valuable contributions to this nation In addition, Ernesto Livonfor centuries,” said Gricelda Estrada, Grossman, director of “Cartoneros,” assistant director for the Office of will explain his film via Skype. Multicultural Affairs. “Latinos in Peruvian writer Hemil Garcia Linares 2006 accounted for 14.8 percent of will also talk about the challenges of the total U.S. population.” being a foreign writer in America. The second half of September and The Latino Student Union, too, first half of October pay tribute to will host several events throughout generations of Hispanic Americans the month, including Teatro Luna, who have positively influenced and a theater performance group from enriched the nation, Estrada said. Chicago. The performance will During the heritage celebration, a explore issues of race and gender. number of activities will take place on LSU’s semi-annual dinner and campus to celebrate dance will be held Hispanic heritage. with the theme “We hope that “Students will students will be able “Aztec.” have an opportunity “LSU believes to learn more about to not only learn that through campusthe various aspects of something new but wide programming the Hispanic culture and community and current issues feel comfortable with outreach we can affecting Latinos in a new commmunity.” inform Grand the U.S.,” Estrada Valley of the Latino said. “We will present culture,” said Martin MARTIN RIVERA a wide array of Rivera, president PRESIDENT OF LATINO programming from of LSU. “We try to STUDENT UNION films and lectures to set several events artistic workshops.” throughout the One such event is an immigration semester so that GVSU students forum, in which panelists will speak can experience Latino Culture. about immigration issues. We hope that students will be able “(The forum) will be a partisan to not only learn something new affair, but students, especially those but feel comfortable with a new not familiar with migration issues, community.” would benefit from learning about Maria Perez, vice president of an issue that is deeply important LSU, said she believes students but has been overshadowed by would benefit from attending the economic crisis and ongoing wars,” events of Hispanic Heritage Month. said Andrew Schlewitz, assistant “It is important not only for professor of Latin American studies students to attend the events for this and one of the panelists. month, but events for other cultural Students in disagreement with organizations as well because through the forum can also attend, Schlewitz learning we can become more open said. They might develop a more and aware of our surroundings,” she thorough understanding of the said. “We want to create a culturally opposition and come up with better accepting campus.” counterarguments. During the forum, Schlewitz will ableeker@lanthorn.com address the misconception that Latin

By Allison Bleeker

GVL Archive / Taylor Raymond

Musical ﬁesta: Three guitarists share part of their Latino culture at a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration in a past year. Hispanic Heritage Month features various events, speakers, ﬁlms and performances. The month is recognized Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 this year.

Hispanic Heritage Month Events Hispanic Heritage Kick-off GVSU Latino student organization Learn more about the 2009 Hispanic Heritage Celebration. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sept. 14 and Sept. 15 Cook Carillon Tower Immigration Forum Professor Andrew Schlewitz and Attorney Richard Kessler Discover what is wrong with current immigration laws and why the system needs to be overhauled. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Sept. 14 DeVos Center, Loosemore Auditorium Wall of Shadows Barbara Martinez Jinter Watch the film “Wall of Shadows” and discuss both sides of the U.S./Mexican wall. Jinter will pose questions of who we are and where we are heading. 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Sept. 16 Kirkhof Center, Grand River Room

Latinos: Beyond Tacos and Sombreros Juan A. Colon Explore the definition of the words Latino and Hispanic and speak about the diversity within the Hispanic/Latino ethnicity and the shared values. Noon to 1 p.m., Sept. 21 Kirfhof Center, Grand River Room Voices of Immigration: The Challenge of Being a Foreign Writer in America Hemil Garcia Linares Learn the journey of many immigrants in America — endless hours of work and venturing in any trade on the way to reach the American dream. 11 a.m. to noon, Sept. 24 Kirkhof Center, Grand River Room Latinos in the U.S. Dr. Enrique E. Figueroa 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Sept. 30 Kirkhof Center, Grand River Room

Conversations about “Cartoneros” Ernesto Livon-Grossman Interview, via Skype, with Ernesto LivonGrossman, director of “Cartoneros.” 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Oct. 6 Kirkhof Center, Grand River Room Leadership for our Diverse Communities Ms. Juana Bordas A special emphasis will be on understanding the leadership practices in communities of color. 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Oct. 14 Cook-DeWitt Center Discovering the Meaning of the Day of the Dead Featuring local artist Erick Pichardo Noon to 2 p.m., Oct. 28 and Oct. 29 Kirkhof Center, Grand River Room

Archaeology Week aims to dig up interest at GV “I love being asked to be an intellectual, intelligent individual and being asked to be physically fit and Although Indiana Jones makes the healthy at the same time,” Kelly said. profession of archaeology famous, “I like the challenge of using my body Grand Valley State University’s and my mind at the same time.” Archaeology Club aims to bury his A reception Thursday will allow sensationalism for good. interested students and faculty to The student organization will interact and discuss the myths and facts host Archaeology Week beginning surrounding their field. Monday. The week will culminate in the “People think archaeology is “Paleo-Olympics,” a collaboration Indiana Jones running around looking between the Classics Society and the for treasure,” said senior Melanie Anthropology Club. Coughlin. “Our goal is to help get This semester is the first time GVSU people more informed and more active has offered archaeology in archaeology.” as a minor. “People think Events include a movie To highlight the night Monday showing upcoming minor, the archaeology one of the Indiana Jones Archaeology Club was is Indiana films. founded in January 2009 In contrast to the film Jones running by Coughlin, Kelly and shown Monday, students around looking two other students. will speak Tuesday Most of the club’s for treasure.” members and Wednesday about are majoring actual research on an in classics, history MELANIE archaeological dig. and anthropology, but COUGHLIN “People don’t look Coughlin is hoping to GVSU SENIOR at archaeology as a real get more members from thing that you can actually diverse backgrounds. do,” Coughlin said. “But it’s something “You don’t have to be part of those you can do here at this school.” majors to be involved in what we do,” Coughlin went on a dig in Honduras she said. during the summer, where she spent Faculty members from different time at a dig site and doing lab work departments created the minor in and research. response to the many students showing “I did things I didn’t know I’d be enthusiasm for the field, said professor doing, like crawling through the jungle,” Melissa Morison. Coughlin said. “It was exciting, and I Morison said she hopesArchaeology learned a lot and had a ton of fun.” Week will inspire students to learn from Senior Caitlin Kelly, the club’s both the triumphs and the mistakes of president, spent her third summer at a our distant ancestors and how history dig site in Tuscany this year. has an impact on our lives. After taking an introductory course “It’s a good idea to take some time in archaeology her freshman year, Kelly now and then to reflect on where we knew she wanted to pursue a career in came from and how we got to where the field so she searched online and we are today,” she said. found the field school in Tuscany. abutkovich@lanthorn.com

By Alexandra Butkovich GVL Staff Writer

See more: Visit Lanthorn.com for a web exclusive on Library Palooza and the Notes from Abroad blog.

GVL / Luke Hotwagner

Carrying green: Biodegradable take-out trays are a common sight at GVSU’s cafeterias. Campus Dining recently adopted reusable takeout trays at Fresh Food Co. to continue its efforts toward sustainability. The new “green” trays save about 65 plastic trays per day.

Take-out trays turn ‘green’ By Susie Skowronek GVL Laker Life Editor

In conjunction with the university’s sustainability program, Campus Dining and the Fresh Food Co. made the change Aug. 31 from disposable plastic carry-out trays to reusable, washable trays. On the average Monday through Thursday, students used about 65 plastic trays per day before Fresh Food Co. switched to the reusable containers. “And we can assume they probably weren’t rinsing and reusing them,” said Deb Rambadt, marketing manager for Campus Dining. Campus Dining makes every attempt to comply with the sustainability objectives of the university. So when the marketing team at Campus Dining noticed other schools using disposable trays, Rambadt and her team decided to look into them, she said. Soon, the clear green plastic, heavyweight, reusable carry-out trays made their debut at the Fresh Food Co. Junior Rachel Powers, who purchased a tray on the day of their release, said she wants to help improve the tray design because she supports the sustainability cause.

“It doesn’t bother me having to Fruit cups are sugar based. Campus remember to pack my own tray,” Dining recycles grease to use for bioPowers said. “It does cut down on all diesel. A worm hotel breaks down the waste, and I can concede to that.” compost, and a community garden However, the previous trays were grows zucchini to use in salads and more efﬁcient because they could sandwiches at Fresh Food. The 600 or seal, while the new eco-friendly trays more employees of Campus Dining cannot, she said. Food can spill over wear organic shirts and wash dishes the sides, so students have to hold the with new machines that use fewer trays upright. chemicals, less energy and less water. “We could look into trays that can Now, students can purchase the be put into bags that reusable trays for $5, “It does cut won’t spill out, that you cash or debit. They carry won’t have to carry in out food in the trays, as down on all your hands and that you their disposable the waste, and with can just slip into a bag counter parts. I can concede during class,” Powers However, after added, enthusiastic about eating, they rinse the to that.” potential improvements. reusable tray and bring RACHEL POWERS Junior Damika it back to Fresh Food for GVSU JUNIOR Houston, a Fresh Food a clean replacement. Co. employee, found out Campus Dining about the new trays when employees must sanitize she worked the register Monday. the trays under hot water before She said she has received positive students can reuse them, Rambadt feedback about the eco-friendly trays said. But students are assured of a from many students. clean tray each time. “I think students like them because The new reusable trays are they can reuse them,” Housten said. microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe. “People don’t have to keep getting a “We’re selling the trays at cost,” new one when they come back.” Rambadt said. “Ultimately, it might With the introduction of the green reduce a cost in paper, but this is meant trays, Campus Dining builds on a to be a service.” history of sustainability. Utensils are corn or sugar based. lakerlife@lanthorn.com

SPORTS

Matt Kuzawa, Sports Editor sports@lanthorn.com

Grand Valley Lanthorn Thursday, September 10, 2009

Depth will decide Valley champion Volleyball to host alumni, Wayne State

The Laker Volleyball team will host its alumni match in the Fieldhouse Arena at 10:30 a.m. Saturday. All family, friends and alumni are welcome to attend. Alumni are encouraged to RSVP with Laker head coach Deanne Scanlon if interested in playing. After the match, Laker fans can tailgate in the parking lot outside the arena from 1 p.m. until the No. 18 Lakers take on visiting Wayne State at 4 p.m.

Allie Tyler wins women’s golf, event

Grand Valley State University took home the team trophy at the Laker Fall Classic, which concluded its ﬁnal round on Tuesday at the Meadows Golf Course in Allendale. The Lakers won by 12 strokes and had four players ﬁnish in the top 10, including junior Allie Tyler, who was the medalist of the tournament with a score of 146 (+2).

NUMBER CRUNCHER 4 Consecutive wins by the Lakers over Saginaw Valley State University’s football team

Coach, players predict if GVSU ‘comes out flat’ Saturday, rivalry game will go to SVSU By Matt Kuzawa GVL Sports Editor

Having won four out of the past five games in the rivalry commonly known as the “Battle of the Valleys,” the Laker football team would not seem to have a chip on its shoulder heading into Saturday’s game. After a lackluster second half against Indianapolis last week, the team is in need of some therapy. “I hope they’re ready to go — I hope we get their best shot,” said senior quarterback Brad Iciek. “I definitely think we have a chip on our shoulder to overcome from last week.” The Laker offense gained 321 yards in the first half last week, leading 23-7. They managed only a field goal in the second half, with only 93 yards, yet won 23-10. “There’s no such thing as a bad win but at the same time we know that we made plenty of mistakes that we could have overcame,” Iciek said. “We can’t have that this week.” In five out of the past seven matchups with Saginaw Valley State University, both teams have been nationally ranked — and this year is no different with the Cardinals carrying a No. 16 ranking into Lubbers Stadium. However, the Cardinals have not beaten the Lakers since 2004, giving the Saginaw Valley State seniors a little extra motivation, especially after last year’s 36-0 drubbing from the Lakers. “Trust me, we don’t have near as big of a chip on our shoulder as they do,” Martin said. “They’ve got some seniors in the locker room that have never beat Grand Valley, and they’ve beaten pretty much everybody else they’ve played with regularity.”

GVL / Luke Hotwagner

Making perfect: The Lakers practice hard for their upcoming “Battle of the Valleys” game against Saginaw Valley State.

Martin hopes with all at stake for their rival’s seniors, his team is just as motivated to win on Saturday. “They don’t need any incentive,” he said. “Our thing is: Are we going to be as excited to play them as they are to play us? That’s the big thing.” With a 2-0 start to the season for both teams, Saturday’s matchup could have GLIAC title implications on the line. With a sold-out Lubbers Stadium backing the Lakers, Iciek said that should be enough incentive in itself. “If we’re not motivated for that then that’s on us,” he said. “We try to put that one past us and really focus on coming out ready to play. It doesn’t matter who the opponent is, you still have got to play up to our level. You can’t come out ﬂat

because teams can hang with you.” However, Iciek could not explain or understand why the team lacked motivation in the second half of last Saturday’s game. “It was just a lack of effort and motivation,” Iciek said. “Everyone was kind of flat, and nobody wanted to be out there. We didn’t even celebrate on touchdowns.” But with the date with rival Saginaw Valley State falling early on the schedule this year, the Lakers have little time to fix whatever ails them. “Obviously we can’t come out flat this weekend or we’re going to lose the football game,” Martin said. Kickoff at Lubbers Stadium is set for 7 p.m. sports@lanthorn.com

Coaching continuity boosts football

Consecutive regular season wins by the Laker football team, including 41 straight GLIAC

By Matt Kuzawa GVL Sports Editor

2 Headers for the women’s soccer team in a 2-0 shutout over Quincy on Sunday

3 Losses in the last four games for the women’s volleyball team, dropping their record to 4-4

Courtesy / gvsu.edu

Mastermind: The football team’s extensive coaching staff provides the direction and strategy behind the Lakers’ winning record.

Even though its record is identical to last season’s, the 2-0 Grand Valley State University football team may be more prepared to take on opponents in the 2009 campaign. After former offensive coordinator Todd Kolster resigned before last season to become the Athletic Director at Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School, the Lakers’ offense was left in ﬂux. The team hired Eric Koehler to run the Lakers’ offense, but he was left with little time to teach the players his offense. “Coach K(oehler) said the other day, ‘I came to practice the ﬁrst day and I didn’t even know who Brad Iciek was,’” said head coach Chuck Martin. “That puts things in perspective pretty quickly.” And that was not the only group in transition. Position coaches George Barnett (offensive line), Jack Ginn (wide receivers), Eddie Brown (cornerbacks) and defensive

coordinator/linebacker coach Matt Mitchell were all in their ﬁrst season at those positions a year ago. “We lost an offensive coordinator a week before the season a year ago,” Martin said. “Everybody was in new roles a year ago, now you have everybody back. The continuity is a lot better now than it was a year ago.” Now, after a year of running Koehler’s offense and following the guidance of Mitchell’s defense, everybody is more comfortable, instead of trying to ﬁgure out what is going on, Martin said. “The whole defense has been together for a year, and the whole offense has been together for a year, so there’s a lot of good minds on both sides of the ball,” he said. “Last year, particularly on offense, they were just trying to learn what the heck we were doing, let alone give any input. This year’s offense will feature new ideas that weren’t possible last year because of the transition to a new scheme with the

inﬂux of the new coaches.” Senior All-American offensive tackle Nick McDonald said Barnett is the best offensive line coach he has had at GVSU. “I’ve had three o-line coaches since I’ve been here,” McDonald said. “I think he’s the best we’ve ever had. He knows what he’s talking about. You can see the difference from ‘07 to ‘08 and from ‘08 to spring then from spring to fall.” Senior cornerback Robert Carlisle said he thinks all the coaches are now where they belong, including new defensive line coach Matt Yoches “All of our coaches are now in their home with their positions,” Carlisle said. “Coach Yoches back coaching the d-line, which he played here at Grand Valley. Coach Mitchell, who coached the linebackers his whole career here, and now we have Eddie Brown who was a 13-year cornerback/wide receiver in the pros, and he’s going back to his wheel house.” sports@lanthorn.com

Volleyball builds team unity through service Lakers volunteer time to prospective players in Grand Rapids’ inner-city high schools By Emanuel Johnson GVL Staff Writer

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In putting together the primary lineup for this year’s volleyball team, Grand Valley State University head coach Deanne Scanlon had some major concerns. Replacing two AllAmerican seniors is difﬁcult enough, but the lack of experience behind the two makes the task all the trickier. And what better way is there for a young team to improve its play than to help even younger players improve theirs? Last month the GVSU volleyball team organized a free, one-day, eight-hour volleyball clinic for several inner-city Grand Rapids high schools. The clinic was designed both to allow the team a chance to give back to the community and afford them an opportunity to build team camaraderie. “It was a really fun day — we tried to make it as fun an environment as possible,” Scanlon said. “Our kids were laughing and joking and playing and having a good time with them all day long and that really helped with our own team camaraderie. Anytime you do something as selﬂess as that, it gives you a good feeling about yourself.” Among the participating schools were Grand Rapids Central High School, Ottawa Hills High School,

Union High School and host Creston The normal volleyball clinics the High School. team hosts are run a handful of days Scanlon said most of her players each summer and can cost a single come from afﬂuent athlete anywhere high schools with from $60 to $100 per “It’s nice to be the resources and day. This made the able to go as an coaching to make experience of reaching athlete and as a them successful. out to the community The opportunity that much more role model and to step foot in an special for everyone give back to the inner-city school involved. community.” and interact with its “We have so much students was an eyesupport from the MEGHAN SCANLON opening experience people around us,” GVSU JUNIOR for the team, said said junior Meghan senior Meredith Scanlon. “It’s nice to Young. be able to go as an athlete and as a role “Bottom line, these girls really model and give back to the community. didn’t know much about volleyball,” A lot of those kids want to be college she said. “A lot of them don’t have the athletes someday, so us going there money to come to the Grand Valley really gave them something of a goal volleyball camps to learn the things to strive for.” The concept of defying inexperience that privileged children do.”

through unity has translated into a 4-4 start to the season. The Lakers have dropped three of their last four matches, the most recent loss coming to Eckerd College at the Eckerd Classic this past weekend. The win launched the No. 22 Tritons into their ﬁrst ever top-25 ranking in program history. “There were times when I really felt like we had control of the match, but it just slipped away,” Deanne Scanlon said. “We just couldn’t close out our matches, and we’ll need to address that. The kids were disgusted with themselves because they want to win. But we have to close out matches, bottom line.” The team will open up conference play tomorrow against Northwood University in GVSU’s Fieldhouse Arena. ejohnson@lanthorn.com

GVL Archive / Nicole Bernier

Volunteer time: The GVSU volleyball team lines up before a past match. Last month the team organized a clinic for inner-city high school students.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

SPORTS

Grand Valley Lanthorn

Women’s hockey boasts ‘first great player’ Junior left-winger, captain Ashley Rumsey receives ranking as sixth best player in any position nationwide By Greg Monahan GVL Staff Writer

Ashley Rumsey’s first full season as a college hockey player was one neither she, nor any of her teammates, will forget. In just 19 regular season games, the junior left-winger netted 32 goals and added 14 assists. Her 46 points were good for sixth best in the nation at any position, as she led the Grand Valley State University women’s hockey team to its first winning season in just their second year as a program. “Ashley (Rumsey) has really developed into our first great player at Grand

Valley,” said head coach Cory Whitaker. “When she’s focused and comfortable with her surroundings, she is unstoppable.” However, fellow linemate Stephanie Murray said it was not just her on-ice scoring ability that helped the team reach their first national tournament last March. “She’s a really strong player and has a good head on her shoulders,” Murray said, who along with Rumsey, was with the team in its inaugural season. “She has a really good hockey sense. She’s able to see the things and use criticism to encourage and correct, rather than hurt.” In the offseason, Rumsey

Courtesy Photo / www.gvsuwomenshockey.com

Ice champions: The GVSU Women’s Ice Hockey team had its first winning season in just its second year as a program. Junior left-winger and team captain Ashley Rumsey was recently named sixth best player in any position in the nation. The women’s hockey team will take on the Ohio State Buckeyes on Oct. 2.

was named second-team All-American in the American Collegiate Hockey Association, an award not lost upon her or her coaches. “It was definitely unexpected,” Rumsey said, who finds time to balance hockey and a biomedical science major. “I had never played a full year of collegelevel hockey, and for me to come out and have my personal best season was really exciting. Getting that award was the icing on the cake. I put in a lot of hard work, and it was great to get rewarded.” On such a young program, it is a huge honor for her and GVSU, Whitaker said.

“It really speaks volumes to teammates, including Murray, how she carries herself on and were chosen for the ACHA off the ice,” he said. “Ashley Selects Team, a collection of (Rumsey) deserves every the best women collegiate accolade she receives; she’s players in the nation who won them will travel to because she’s Europe and “Ashley (Rumsey) busted her butt compete in has really from day one. the spring of developed into our 2010. From practices to off-ice “Growing first great player at training, if it up, a lot of the Grand Valley.” has anything guys I skated to do with with had the hockey, Ashley chance to is there.” go overseas CORY WHITAKER In addition and play in GVSU HEAD COACH to her Alltournaments,” American Rumsey said, h o n o r s , who has been Rumsey and three of her playing hockey since she

was 10. “It has always been something I’ve wanted to do.” But first up for Rumsey and the Lakers is the upcoming season, when the puck drops on Oct. 2 against the Ohio State Buckeyes. The leftwinger and captain said there’s a lot to learn and a lot to look forward to. “The growth from year one to year two was huge,” Rumsey said. “I expect the improvement this season to be even bigger.” When asked about what he expects to see from Rumsey, Whitaker put it simply, “I expect to be blown away.” gmonahan@lanthorn.com

SPORTS

Grand Valley Lanthorn

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Rookie goalkeeper trades in redshirt Freshman Chelsea Parise starts fall season for women’s soccer team in footsteps of All-American Kristina Nasturzio learn as much as I can from her,” she said. “I really tried to put what she GVL Staff Writer does into my game.” For redshirt freshman goalkeeper In Friday’s 8-2 home opening win Chelsea Parise of the women’s against the University of Missourisoccer team, it has been a long time St. Louis, Parise said the experience coming. of being on the field was brand new After sitting out all of last season for her. behind All-American goalkeeper “It was kind of weird getting Kristina Nasturzio, Parise has come announced and playing in front out of the gate strong, leading Grand of our home crowd,” she said. “It Valley State University to a 3-0-1 was definitely different, and I was record through four games. nervous.” Parise said a key asset for her Parise admitted at times she was being open-minded as well as thinks too much building strong before the game. relationships with “(Parise) has been a However, she her teammates — said one of the great shot-stopper many of whom things to do for us and has shown best played with is simply to have Nasturzio last great leadership in the fun. season. “I usually try back right now.” “My goal was to hang out with to let everybody the team before on the team know the games to that I’m going to take some of the DAVE DIIANNI be your goalie and pressure off,” she GVSU HEAD SOCCER COACH that you can trust said. “Some of me,” she said. my teammates “I want them to will have their understand how I play and get them music on in their cars, or some will used to hearing my voice back there. be dancing in the parking lot and I didn’t want to come in here with a everyone’s laughing. I really think big head.” that loosens up the team and is a When Parise found out she would big key because our team has great be redshirted last year, she said she chemistry.” initially was not a fan of the move. GVSU head soccer coach Dave “At first, it sucked. I was very DiIanni said Parise has shown frustrated about it,” she said. excellent strides in her first four Parise said the following week games for the Lakers this season. gave her time to cool down and “(Parise) has been a great shotunderstand why the move was stopper for us and has shown great made. leadership in the back right now,” he “It gave me time to think that said. this will be my developing year to DiIanni added there are practice by Nasturzio’s side and similarities and differences between

By Jared Greenleaf

GVL / Brian B. Sevald

Quick hands: Chelsea Parise, the Lakers’ starting goaltender this season, gets ready to snag an incoming ball during practice on Tuesday.

Parise’s game and Nasturzio’s game. “Both are very competitive and courageous in net,” he said. “Chelsea (Parise) is probably more of a complete goalkeeper in the sense that she’s more technical at this pace than Kristina (Nasturzio) was when

she was a freshman.” First-year goalkeeper coach Shannon Neely said being redshirted was a big advantage for Parise last season. “I think it was nice for her because it gave her a year to learn under Kristina (Nasturzio) and gain

that confident swagger that she possessed when she was here,” she said. “I think it definitely helped her get better.” The Lakers will host Ferris State University in Allendale at noon Sunday. jgreenleaf@lanthorn.com

Young Laker golfers adjust to collegiate life Seasoned golfers coach freshmen, first-year players on team to draw confidence in practice, tournament play By Aaron Brandt GVL Staff Writer

It is increasingly common for younger players to make an impact on NCAA athletics. The Grand Valley State University men’s golf team is no exception. “We have a lot of young guys who all have the

GVL Archive

Leader: Matt Malloure is one of four seniors and five underclassmen on the men’s golf team this season.

potential to contribute,” said head coach Don Underwood. “It’s just a matter of boosting their confidence and getting them comfortable around their new teammates.” With a total of five underclassmen and four seniors, the team is not the most experienced, but sophomore Mike Basinski said he thinks the talent makes up for it. “Experience is important, but we’ve got young guys who are really good,” Basinksi said. “If we focus on our game, we should be able to do well this season.” With the recent increase in the popularity of golf, more athletes can gain real tournament experience before playing collegiate golf. “The game is growing so much,” Basinski said. “My interest in golf started at a young age with Tiger Woods, and it has only increased over the years.” This growth has led to an influx of experienced and talented golfers.

“You see a lot uncomfortable feeling,” more tournaments and Malloure said. “If you know opportunities for younger what to expect, then you kids to compete against each can focus and handle your other,” Underwood said. “It emotions better.” changes their T h e expectations, coaches also “For freshman and because now guide the they come new players first year players, in thinking the this is a totally new through they can win early stages experience. They tournaments.” of their To become careers. have to get used successful, the “We try to school, practice athletes must make them and playing in first adjust to comfortable college life. in school at tournaments.” “ F o r GVSU along MATT MALLOURE freshmen with golf,” GVSU SENIOR and first year Underwood players, this said. “Our is a totally new experience,” job is to help them handle said senior Matt Malloure. different situations at practice “They have to get used to and build their confidence.” school, practice and playing Underwood sees the in tournaments.” increased confidence level as Confidence, combined with a huge advantage. the experience of different golf “The sooner you can situations proves invaluable, get a player confident, the Malloure said. better he is in the long run,” “If you have never Underwood said. “A confident been in the final round of player is not worried about a big tournament, it’s an impressing those around him

just going out and focusing — on golf.” The players around a young golfer can also have a positive impact, said senior Josh Burt. “Malloure and I are trying to show the leadership it takes to make it back to nationals,” he said. “These guys have a boatload of talent and only time will tell if we can bring it out of them and ourselves.” One of those new players looking to make an impact is freshman Chase Olsen. “Chase is a real mature kid with a work ethic to become a really strong player,”

Underwood said. “He has the physical skills, a good swing and he manages himself really well on the course.” Chase personifies what Underwood looks for in a young golfer. “I always look for a kid that has a passion for golf and takes the time to get good at the sport,” Underwood said. “Those players are an asset, no matter how old.” The team opens the season in the Saginaw Valley State University Cardinal Invite on Saturday and Sunday. abrandt@lanthorn.com

Grand Valley Lanthorn Thursday, September 10, 2009

A&E

Haley Otman, A&E Editor arts@lanthorn.com

ARTisans bring creativity to downtown new vendors every week, so you never know from week to week what you will find.” The market continues to grow each week. The FSAM averages 58 artists and vendors and sometimes must even turn people away. Ranging from jewelry By Josh Brunsting made out of recycled paper and GVL Staff Writer handmade porcelain, to customA special, farmers’ market- made hula hoops, the market is style marketplace where artists not only a way to get out into the from around the area can community and support artists, come to sell their products will but it also continue its allows one to “I think the best thing get custom run in Grand Rapids this art not found about FSAM is that weekend. at malls or it gives emerging “ T h e chain stores. Fulton Street local artists and “I make A RTi s a n s and sell craftspeople a venue M a r k e t handmade to show their work has been custom going for in a casual outdoor fitness hula five years,” hoops for setting.” said coadults,” said BILL MORRIS coordinator Ken Kiel. “I ARTIST Lisa Radeck. call it Hoopy It began Go Lucky, as an and all the hoops are colorful overflow market for artists and and fun, which I think helps crafters who had a hard time make the idea of exercise more competing with farmers for appealing.” booth space at farmers’ markets. The market also makes This new market allowed more it easy for artists to get their opportunities for local artists to product out. It charges a weekly sell their work. booth fee of $10 and gives artists Radeck said the FSAM has the opportunity to meet a lot of met a lot of success. potential customers. “Last summer we averaged “I think the best thing about 18 vendors,” Radeck said. “We FSAM is that it gives emerging also had a couple of successful local artists and craftspeople events where we had good a venue to show their work in foot traffic and more than 50 a casual outdoor setting,” said vendors for those days. We get artist Bill Morris. “Also it gives

More than 50 vendors set to showcase works at GR marketplace

Courtesy Photo / Google Images

Accesorize: Homemade jewelry is among the many arts available for sale at the Fulton Street ARTisans Market held from 11 a.m to 3 p.m. Sundays.

the community a convenient place to see a lot of different artists and craftspeople in one location without the hassle of going to a suburban shopping mall.” This variety and atmosphere seem to work with the community as well. “On regular market days we get between 250 and 500 visitors,” Radeck said. “However, on event days, which are once a month, we can easily get in excess of that… They are easily the most fun and the most popular days of the market.” One of these events, the Artisans Animal Relief Fundraiser, will occur this

weekend. The event will be attempting to raise money for C-SNIP and The Wildlife Rehab Center. Along with the fundraiser, the FSAM will accept dry dog/ cat food donations on behalf of Kibble Konnection. Kibble Konnection helps more than 350 families in the area provide food for their pets. FSAM comes every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. until Oct. 4. The market is held at 1147 E. Fulton in Grand Rapids. For more information, or to register for a booth, go to http://www. grartmarket.com. jbrunsting@lanthorn.com

Courtesy Photo / Google Images

Frame it: Photographers have the chance to show their work at FSAM.

Hispanic Festival offers glimpse around world on student’s budget By Haley Otman GVL A&E Editor

Courtesy Photo / Google Images

Fired up: Ceramics, paintings, jewelry and photography will be on display at the Avenue of Arts Street Market.

Avenue of the Arts Street Market features 45 vendors

added. Avenue for the Arts allows GVL Staff Writer people to interact with the About 45 vendors will vendors and entertainers, which line the street selling created helps with a strong “community goods such as ceramics, atmosphere,” Schaub said. jewelry, paintings, drawings Amanda Jagniecki, also and photography as passers- a graduate of GVSU, is the by purchase the art or simply entertainment coordinator for watch a belly dancer or Bijoux the event and said she expects dance ensemble. at least 500 people to attend. Jenn Schaub, a graduate of Jagniecki books all the bands Grand Valley and works State University on putting “I’m always a and a community romotions little bit nervous ptogether. organizer for the because you Dwelling Place Michael Neighborhood Wolf, a senior never know Revitalization in visual studies d e p a r t m e n t , what people will at GVSU, is an serves as administrative think of your organizer for intern for the work. ” the Avenue of Avenue for the the Arts Street Arts. COLLYN DEBANO Market. The Wolf said GVSU STUDENT Dwelling Place the festival is Neighborhood really laid back, Revitalization and he is hoping department is a non-profit for more volunteers to emerge. organization specializing in a The work involved would “mission to revitalize and touch be marking the lots, putting communities” through events up signs and some cleaning, such as Avenue for the Arts. and volunteers receive a free “The vendors get very T-shirt. committed to attending this Besides just the art, there is event for the community,” a great selection of businesses Schaub said. open along Division Avenue for As attendance and the festival-goers, too, including number of vendors has grown, Vertigo Music or Gerry Dodds the competition between Record Shop, vintage clothes vendors has increased, she at Scavenger Hunt and a cafe

By Danielle Slabbekoorn

called MixTape. Very popular Brickroad Pizza from Wealthy Street will also have a booth open. GVSU art education and metalsmithing student Collyn DeBano will sell his art there for the third time. DeBano will sell framed fabric pieces and rings at a booth with Mary Powell and Jeff Kraus. Powell and Kraus will sell prints and watercolors. “I’m always a little bit nervous because you never know what people will think of your work,” DeBano said. “But once it gets going and people start looking around and buying things, it is exciting.” DeBano is interested to see what responses he will get at the event about his artwork. The Avenue for the Arts market takes place from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, between Weston Street and Williams Street on South Division Avenue. The charge to register for a booth is $15. From 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., last-minute registrations and set-up will take place. For a registration form and a complete schedule of entertainment, visit the Web site at http://www. avenueforthearts.com, or look for them on Facebook. dslabbekoorn@lanthorn.com

Chelsea Vives is part Mexican, but since the Hispanic side of her family lives in Texas she does not feel too in touch with it on a daily basis. There is a large Hispanic population in Grand Rapids, though, which is why the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan is offering the Hispanic Festival 2009. Vives, along with anyone else who wishes to attend, can try traditional Hispanic cuisines, watch dancers and listen to bands and singers from her heritage. “This is going to be a really fun break from the ordinary, so I’m definitely going and I’m going to bring my friends with me so they can see how fun my heritage is,” Vives said. One performance at the festival will be by the Ballet Folklórico Guadalupano, a cultural Mexican dance troupe based out of Grand Rapids. “I have discovered so many beautiful things about different cultures through their dances… It is an amazing way, especially when you don’t speak a language, to see someone’s culture,” said Cecilia Schwartz, a member of the Ballet Folklórico Guadalupano. Schwartz said one can see the Mexican “passion and vitality for life” through their traditional dances, and they break down language

barriers. Grand Rapids’ culturallyThe group will perform aware community also offers dances from many different many different options. states of Mexico, as they Carly Abbot, a 2009 have a diverse group of graduate, took two years of members- some Mexican Spanish classes at GVSU and some American. and has been entranced by The event is full of arts the Hispanic culture’s music and culture, as many vendors and dance ever since. and artisans will offer for sale “This will be my first year handmade attending,” “I have discovered crafts and Abbot said, Hispanic adding she is so many beautiful pieces. The really looking different things vendors forward to about different and artisans seeing the hail from entertainment cultures through Mexico, offered. their dances.” Puerto Rico, T h e Colombia, Hispanic t h e Festival 2009 CECILIA SCHWARTZ Caribbean, will take BALLET FOLKLORICO Central place Friday, GUADALUPANO MEMBER America beginning at and South 11:30 a.m. America, so with a DJ. there will be a wide variety After that, many different of goods for sale. music and dance acts will Especially geared toward perform, including Grupo la the Latinos will be a voter Prueva, Grupo Generaciones, registration booth. Baile Folklórico Studiantil, After studying abroad in Astusia and more. 2007, recent Grand Valley There will be a Pasfino State University graduate Horse Exhibition from noon Mike Palombo has become to 1 p.m. and fireworks at 10 interested in entertainment p.m. from different cultures and Also included are martial plans to attend the event. arts instructions, arts and “(There are) so many crafts, two beer and specialty more options for fun than beverage tents and more. just going to a movie,” The Hispanic Festival Palombo said, so he hopes 2009 will take place at the a lot of people will support Calder Plaza at 300 Ottawa the festival, especially since Ave. NW in downtown it is free. Grand Rapids. Palombo got to see so much during his trip to arts@lanthorn.com Europe and said he is glad

Courtesy Photo / Google Images

Passion dance: Traditional Mexican dancers demonstrate that dance and music truly are universal languages.

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A&E

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Grand Valley Lanthorn

‘Returning to Earth’ sees life as words, art Professor gains inspiration for art exhibit from works by local writer in turn inspired Eggers, “Poets and painters often t u r n i n g become friends,” said Jim her from Harrison, a writer and Michigan an interior native. painter to a Harrison was befriended by landscape Jill Eggers years ago because painter. she, a painter, was so interested The two Eggers in his writing style. traveled In Harrison’s writing, “the to places material world and spiritual all around Michigan where world meet and are examined,” Harrison had gone, even the Eggers said, making the place he grew landscape up and where “(In Harrison’s “a place for his sister now consciousness lives, near writing) the to kind of Rodney, Mich. material world examine itself.” Eggers took Eggers, head and spiritual world photographs of the painting and more meet and are p r o g r a m photographs, examined ...” at Grand then later Valley State used all of U n i v e r s i t y, her pictures JILL EGGERS was so inspired of each place GVSU ASSOCIATE by the deep to create an PROFESSOR description “entirely new in Harrison’s and fictional works, she representation of that place,” channeled that inspiration into she said. paintings. “I’m not trying to illustrate She made a few landscapes something that’s happened in loosely based on her favorite any of his work,” Eggers said, parts of his writing. Then, just trying to “reveal the spirit because Harrison often travels of place.” to GVSU, as GVSU bought his Patricia Clark, professor of manuscripts, the two became writing at GVSU, said Harrison friends. is “one of the best writers in Eggers then got the chance describing nature since Ernest of a lifetime: to visit the places Hemingway.” that had inspired Harrison and One of his most recent

By Haley Otman GVL A&E Editor

Courtesy Photo / Google Images

Artist’s inspiration: Jim Harrison is a writer and Michigan native whose written works have greatly inspired the art of GVSU painting professor Jill Eggers.

novels, “Returning to Earth,” lends its name to Eggers’ exhibition. Harrison called Eggers an admirable painter, and a great friend. “We obviously have some kind of connection,” he said, adding she has great knowledge of the natural world. Eggers, an associate professor of painting, studied at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago then Western

Michigan University and finally received her MFA from the Yale University School of Art. She has had many other solo and group exhibitions, including at the Saginaw Art Museum, Mingenback Gallery at Bethany College and the Aaron V. Bohrod Fine Arts Center at the University of Wisconsin. Eggers has been painting seriously since high school but started when she was five years

old in one sense, she said. She learned through Harrison how in love she is with the woods of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and based some of her work on those. A few projects based on his writings are still in progress, but many are available for viewing at the exhibition. Harrison will come to GVSU for his yearly visit at 6 p.m. Oct. 5 in the Loosemore Auditorium on GVSU’s Pew Campus.

GVSU owns Harrison’s works, which are open to the public for research at GVSU’s Special Collections in Allendale. “Returning to Earth” runs until Sep. 25 in the GVSU Art Gallery in the Performing Arts Center. There will be an opening reception with Eggers today from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and both the exhibition and reception are free and open to the public. arts@lanthorn.com

Action-thriller ‘Gamer’ just plain torturous Josh Brunsting GVL Staff Writer

When it comes to “Gamer,” I had mixed emotions going in. Action films tend to be pure garbage. However, Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor have made two fantastic action films, “Crank” and “Crank 2,” so that was a major selling point. I decided to give “Gamer” a chance and will regret that decision until my dying day. “Gamer” is a high-concept, action thriller set in the near future when gaming and entertainment have evolved into a terrifying new hybrid. Humans control other humans in mass-scale, multi-player

online games: people play people. We follow Kable, an inmate who is looking to win enough games to be set free. The film’s major saving grace comes from the two helming the project, Neveldine and Taylor. They put the camera right in the middle of the action and by using the new RED One camera, bring out all of the details not only in a person’s face and body, but in the world around them too. It’s a gorgeous film, in all of its brutality, because while it’s a dirty, dirty effort, the film maintains some sense of polish that is an interesting dichotomy. The filmmakers’ trademark guerilla-style filmmaking jazzes up a lack of substance, making “Gamer” one of the better looking action films you will see this year.

Weekend Diversions Friday: • “Bordertown” showing at 10 a.m. in the Kirkhof Big Screen Theater • Battle of the Bands, part of Battle of the Valleys, in Robinson Field at 3 p.m. • You Beautiful Black Woman presents Back 2 School Picnic at the Kirkhof Center’s west lawn from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. • Van Andel Institute’s “Carnival on the Grand” at the Grand Rapids Public Museum from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Saturday: • Monte’s Fall Fashion Show at 7 p.m. at Monte’s in Grand Rapids • Tulipanes Latino Art and Film Festival in Holland Sunday: • “Wanted” showing all day in the Kirkhof Big Screen Theater • Pals Student Mentors Bonfire from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Winter Hall • Tulipanes Latino Art and Film Festival in Holland All weekend: • Allegan County Fair in Allegan

They use anything and everything in their power to get the perfect shot, but it cannot redeem the movie. The lead of the film, Gerard Butler, still has yet to prove to me he is more than just a 20-pack. Sure, the guy may be one of the most appealing men in Hollywood, but the computer I’m typing this on is a better actor. Making his name in the god-awful “300,” he is equally as bad in this film. Not only does he not carry any sort of emotional weight, but the dialogue he spouts off does him no favors. Equally as bad is his wife, played by Amber Valletta, and while she is definitely not sore on the eyes, the two as a couple never truly worked. They have less than no chemistry, and when you are supposed to feel for these

two, especially near the emotional climax of the film, nothing, and I mean nothing, is felt. The film is also horribly cliché and features a flat-out uninteresting story. The plot is paint-by-numbers, and the film is about as subtle as a sledgehammer to the skull. Also, the film is a master’s class in style over substance, which in this case, really doesn’t work. The ultimate sin “Gamer” commits is its lack of humor. They take the audience member’s nose and stick it right in the middle of the complete degradation they are putting the characters through, like a disobedient dog. Nothing is sacred to these two, and instead of just being fun and intense, “Gamer” is dark, uninteresting, and just plain torturous. jbrunsting@lanthorn.com

Religious options Though many Grand Valley State University students may find themselves far from home, the distance does not have to translate into isolation from a religious community. Many places of worship are located in close proximity to campus. While West Michigan is predominantly Christian, students who identify as Jewish, Muslim, non-denominational or follow other belief systems can find a local community in which to practice or share their beliefs.

Courtesy Photo / www.google.com

Game on: Gerard Butler stars in the n Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor film “Gamer.”