West Campus Presents Honorary Arts Exhibition
Men’s Baseball Team Knocked Off From No. 1
Cartoon Creatures Come To Life In Spring Films
Earthquake In Haiti Still Causes Tremors
MDC West Campus pays homage to Cuban sculptor Roberto Estopiñán. Exhibit features 60 years of his work.
After suffering two losses in one week, the men’s baseball team is no longer the top team in the nation.
A pair of animated protagonists pave the way for loads of laughter in the films Paul and Rango.
Haiti is still under major repair. Guest columnist suggests strategies to improve life after the destruction.
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TURN TO NEWS, PAGE 9
TURN TO SPORTS, PAGE 11
4VOL. 1, ISSUE 11—MARCH 28, 2011 R.I.P. Elizabeth Taylor 1932-2011
COURTESY OF MDC MEDIA RELATIONS
VISIT US ONLINE: WWW.MDC.EDU/THEREPORTER
2011 NORTH AND WEST CAMPUS GRADUATION
Obama To Speak At MDC Graduation Ceremony President Barack Obama is this year’s guest speaker for the North and West Campus commencement ceremony. By Alexandra de Armas alexandra.dearmas001@mymdc.net President Barack Obama will be the guest speaker at the North and West Campus graduation ceremony. The event will take place on April 29 at 5 p.m. at the James L. Knight International Center. Obama will address nearly 4,000 students. “[It] is a true honor for our institution,
and more importantly, the President’s presence and words will no doubt serve as a lifelong inspiration to our graduating students and their families,” said North Campus President José A. Vicente. Obama will be the third U.S President in the past four years to speak at a Miami Dade College graduation. Former President George W. Bush spoke at the Kendall Campus commencement ceremony in 2007; William Jefferson Clinton spoke during the North and West Campus graduation in 2010. According to Hannah August, White
Politicians On Parade
Here’s a brief look at some politicians who have served as graduation speakers for a Miami Dade College Campus. 1980
Janet Reno, State Attorney for Dade County, was the guest speaker for the Medical Center Campus.
1993
Richard W. Riley, Secretary of Education, was the guest speaker for the Wolfson Campus.
Barack Obama, President of the United States, will be the guest speaker for the North and West Campuses’ 2011 graduation.
TURN TO OBAMA, PAGE 7
SOURCES: COLLEGE ARCHIVES, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS JUAN MENDIETA RESEARCH: ALEXANDRA DE ARMAS GRAPHIC: LAZARO GAMIO
1990
1979
2011
2000
2001
Elaine Chao, U.S. Secretary of Labor was the guest speaker for the North Campus.
2004
Laura Bush, Wife to 43rd President of the United States, George W. Bush, was the guest speaker for the North Campus.
CAMPUS WIDE SMOKING BAN
2010
2008
2010
George W. Bush, Former President of the United States, was the guest speaker for the Kendall Campus.
William Jefferson Clinton, Former President of the United States, was the guest speaker for the North and West Campus.
MEN’S BASKETBALL HEAD COACH RESIGNATION
Smoking Ban Vote To Be Held Head Coach Resigns In April; Approval Expected After Allegations Miami Dade College administration is awaiting approval to ban smoking at all eight campuses. By Melissa Adan melissa.adan001@mymdc.net A smoking ban at all Miami Dade College campuses is expected to become effective April 19, when the policy will be submitted for final approval to the District Board of Trustees. “We can never predict what the final decision of the Board will be, but considering that the policy contributes to the health and well-
GREGORY CASTILLO / THE REPORTER
Lights Out: Michael Adrian, 21, smokes a cigarette on the 4th floor terrace of building 1. Pending approval Board of Trustees, smoking would be banned on all campuses at MDC.
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Men’s Basketball Coach Matthew Eisele, 29, resigns after being placed on administrative leave for allegedly violating College Procedure 2410. By Monique O. Madan monique.madan001@mymdc.net Three weeks after facing allegations that he called a basketball player a “dumb ass” and threatened to have him removed from the premises by campus security, Matthew Eisele resigned as Head Coach for Miami Dade College Men’s Basketball team. Eisele, who submitted his resignation letter on March 3, did not A&E
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return messages left on his cell phone by The Reporter staff. His resignation letter did not allude to why he quit. College administrators have declined comment to specify who the student athlete described in the allegation is. No other written complaints were filed against Eisele. “I don’t understand. Yes, he cussed at times, but all coaches do,” said point guard Darwin Ellis. “You really can’t let words hurt you. Can’t run away from that. Take it as a low jab and keep going.”
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THE REPORTER IS THE FREE BIWEEKLY STUDENT NEWSPAPER AT MIAMI DADE COLLEGE. ALL CONTENT IS PRODUCED BY MDC STUDENTS. THE REPORTER IS A PUBLIC FORUM FOR EXPRESSION.
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MDC And City Year Miami Present Tony
// BRIEFING Monica Suarez, Briefing Editor //
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New Scholarship Gives Students The ‘American Dream’ Starting this summer, all Miami-Dade County high school graduates will be able to attend Miami Dade College at no cost. Announced on March 23, The American Dream scholarship requires a 3.0 GPA, an SAT score of 1270 and an ACT score of 28. It is designed for students who qualify for college level courses and who lack funds to pay for College. To apply for the scholarship students need to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Miami Dade College recognizes that a high school diploma is no longer sufficient to compete on a global scale. “More and more we see how the credentials of the twenty first cen-
tury knowledge based economy is the college degree,” Miami Dade College President Eduardo Padrón said. “More than two-thirds of all the jobs created in the country today require post secondary training and education. Those that do not take advantage of this basically become dammed to a life of poverty.” Philanthropists in the greater Miami community helped make this scholarship possible with the donations given during MDC’s 50th anniversary celebration.
College JumpStart Offers Scholarships At MDC
The X Factor Will Hold Auditions In Miami
The College JumpStart Scholarship is available to all Miami Dade College students. Students eligible for this annual, merit-based scholarship must be 10th-12th graders, college students or non-traditional students in all fields of study. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents, must demonstrate their commitment to going to school and the ability to express their goals for getting a higher education. All applications must be submitted by April 15 along with a personal statement attached to their application. The first place winner will be awarded $1,500, second place will receive $750, and honorable mention recipients will win $250 in scholarship funds.
Enjoy singing in the shower? Or singing with friends? How about singing in front of a live studio audience? Simon Cowell’s The X Factor, a new talent show, will be holding auditions at the Bank United Center, 1245 Dauer Drive, April 7. Cowell’s singing competition welcomes solo and group singers competing for the $5 million dollar grand prize.Contestants must be at least 12-years-old by March 1, 2011, legal US citizens (or eligible to work full-time), and without a current music recording contract. “It’s worth a shot,” said Linda Alvarado, 18, a music education major at the Kendall Campus. “I am excited to sing in front of a live audience and get judged, as a performer it’s useful to know what you are good and bad at.” The X Factor premiers on FOX in September while American Idol is off the air.
—Yesenia Iglesias For more information, contact: College JumpStart Scholarship T (650) 319-8441 B admin@jumpstart-scholarship.net
InterAmerican Campus Hosts Green Fair Miami Dade College’s Earth Ethics Institute and the Green Team at the InterAmerica Campus is hosting a Green Fair at the campuses Flag Courtyard, 627 SW 27th Ave., on March 30 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. The fair will include exhibits of “greener products” such as eco-friendly water bottles, information booths on how to make houses greener, as well as lectures by Susan Luck on “The Impact of the Environment on Health” and Capt. Dan Kipnis on “Climate Change and the Oceans.” InterAmerican Campus
—Akeem Brunson For more information, visit:
MDC.EDU/AMERICANDREAM
—Melissa Adan For more information, visit:
WWW.FOX.COM/THEXFACTOR
Organizations such as MiamiDade County Solid Waste Management, Young Friends of the Everglades and the South Florida Water Management District, will also participate in the fair. “Big or small, every change we do will be better for the environment,” said Jessica Grethel Martinez, a student at InterAmerican Campus. The event is free and open to the public. —Rafael Brazon Di Fatta For more information, contact: Raquel Fundora T (305) 237-6378 B fundora@mdc.edu
THE REPORTER
MDC Summer Course Registration Is Underway
Film Society Organization Searching For New Talent
March 7 marked the first day of Miami Dade College summer registration. When registering, students are given the option of choosing from three different course durations. They can choose the semester’s regular 12-week classes, the first half, Summer A, or the second half, Summer B. Late registration for Summer A begins May 9, and there is a $50 fee. For Summer B, late registration commences June 20. To register for classes, students must log on to their MyMDC account and click on Summer Term 2011 Registration. Students are recommended to fill out the Free Application for Student Aid and present the corresponding paper work to the financial aid offices located at every campus.
The Film Society Organization at North Campus, 11380 NW 27 Ave., is looking for actors to help them in short film projects. According to event coordinator Eduardo Capriles, the organization’s goal is to help create short film projects while helping students build their portfolios and obtaining real-world experience. Although they mainly target drama, theater and performing art majors, the offer is open to all students. There is a $5 fee. “We want to reach out to students who want to act, it does not matter what they are majoring in, anyone can help us,” Capriles said. Meetings are held in Room 1377, at noon on Mondays for officers and Wednesdays for students and participants.
—Marvin Pineda
—Hector Gonzalez For more information, contact: Carolina Vargas T (305) 331-3934 B carolina121705@yahoo.com lasernanotech.com
Kendall Campus Debate Team Goes To Nationals
Dress For Success Fashion Show At North Campus
Miami Dade College’s Debate Team is headed to Portland, Oregon for Pi Kappa Delta’s national convention and debate tournament from March 23-26. The two members that will be competing are Anthony Spallone and Paul Jimenez. Spallone and Jimenez are no strangers to debate. They teamed up to beat Britain’s national team this past November. Both will be competing in Parliamentary Debate and Extemporaneous Speaking events. John William Todd, professor of speech and director of debate at Kendall Campus, is leading the team. “I expect they’ll be very competitive even though we haven’t been competing in the national circuit,” said Todd. “They are both excellent speakers.”
Miami Dade College North Campus, 11380 NW 27 Ave., is hosting a Dress for Success Fashion Show after the 2011 Student Government Association Vote Rally on March 30 at noon in building 4. North Campus students will be modeling various outfits, including school, business and professional attire to show students the proper dress code for different settings. “The purpose of this event is to educate the student body at North Campus on how the way they dress can affect them,” said North Campus SGA vice president Giselle Heraux, who is helping organize the event. “Due to the positive response from our students in the past, we have decided to hold another Fashion Show during the Vote Rally.”
—Rachel Rosenberg
—Crizalida Suero
For more information, contact: John William Todd T (305) 237-2376 B john.todd@mdc.edu
Dean Chosen As 2011 Fulbright Scholar Jeffery A. Thomas, dean of academic and student affairs at Homestead Campus, has been selected as a 2011 Fulbright Scholar. The program is set up by the government to bring together American and foreign scholars. In April, Thomas will travel to Moscow and Yekaterinburg in Russia to meet with administrators from different colleges and universities in Russia and compare and exchange ideas on education.
For more information, contact: Giselle Heraux T (305) 237-1644 B giselle.heraux001@mymdc.net
Applicants must go through a substantial application process, submit an essay and recommendation letters, as well as go through an American committee and a Russian committee. “I heard I got the award December of last year and it is an absolute honor to have been chosen,” Thomas said. “I am very excited.” —Monica Suarez For more information, contact: Jeffery A. Thomas T (305) 237-5101 B jthomas2@mdc.edu
VISIT US ONLINE: WWW.MDC.EDU/THEREPORTER
Miami Dade College and City Year Miami are teaming up with Invisible Children, a media-based non-profit organization, to present a screening of Tony on April 2, at Wolfson Campus, 300 N.E. 2nd Ave., from 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. in Room 3210. Tony is the story of a young Ugandan boy whose life has been tainted by violence from terrorist groups. The event is part of the Invisible Children’s Congo Tour. During the tour, 17 teams travel to the United States in vans to show films featuring Ugandans. Scovia Angiro is one of the many speakers trying to help prevent future violence in regions of Uganda by the Lord’s Resistance Army. The event is free and open to the public. Entrance is only by RSVP. —Monica Suarez For more information, contact: Joshua Young T (305) 237-7477 B jyoung@mdc.edu —————————————— To RSVP: T (305) 237-3848 B cciwolfson@mdc.edu
Hialeah Campus Offers STEM Program For Students Starting this summer, Miami Dade College’s Hialeah Campus will be offering a new program to prospective freshmen majoring in science, technology, engineering or mathematics. The STEM Program, which is free only during the summer term, is a 10-week course from Monday to Thursday. It includes exclusive presentations and trips to universities and museums with a focus on each of these fields of study. The program is designed to enhance the education of the incoming students, while guiding them in the registration process for future courses. “I definitely think that this program will help students will get a better understanding of their field of interest,” said engineering major Roberto Andres. Any student majoring in science, technology, engineering or mathematics and enrolled in a developmental math course is eligible to participate in the STEM Program. The last day to register is June 15. —Brittany Esquijerosa For more information, contact: Aneisah V. Castro T (305) 237-8606 B acastro5@mdc.edu
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COURTESY OF FEDERICO ARANGO
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Nocturnal Blaze: A fireball is visible at the fuel tank farm at Miami International Airport late Wednesday night, March 23. At least 40 percent of the fuel supply was lost, causing delays and cancellation of 179 flights. Investigators believe the fire was caused by an electrical failure in the fuel supply system.
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Small Car, Big Fire: A MINI Cooper was found on fire after a public safety officer reported it on North Campus’ Lot 11 on March 17. It was approximately 5:28 p.m. when the student was notified that the vehicle was being towed. No other damages were reported. Reasons why the fire was ignited is still unknown.
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Inventive Illustrator: Miami Herald Cartoonist Jim Morin spoke to students about his work as a modern print and multimedia cartoonist at the Wolfson Campus on March 22.
VISIT US ONLINE: WWW.MDC.EDU/THEREPORTER
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All That Jazz: The Horace Silver Group, The Blue Note Group, and the Hard Bop Jazz Ensemble performed a free concert on Monday, March 22 as part of the ‘Jazz at Wolfson Presents’ series.
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So Fresh, So Clean: As part of the United Nations’ Fresh Water Awareness Day, Ingrid Barreneche showcased an art instillation that helped promote the importance of fresh water around the world. Her art, titled Have you heard about the plastic diet? was placed outside of Wolfson Campus’ building 1 on March 23.
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CAMPUS WIDE SMOKING BAN
// NEWS Monique O. Madan, Editor-in-Chief //
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GREGORY CASTILLO / THE REPORTER
Cought A Spot: North Campus business major Jean Rene Faustin cleans windows at a residential job. Faustin is the CEO of Smart Cleaning Professional Services, a janitorial and cleaning service in South Florida. ODD JOBS SERIES
The King Of Clean
North Campus business major, Jean Rene Faustin’s business, Smart Cleaning Professional Services, has made him a successful entrepreneur at the age of 23. By Gregory Castillo gregory.castillo001@mymdc.net North Campus business major Jean Rene Faustin isn’t scared to get his hands dirty— or clean for that matter. Faustin, 23, is the CEO of Smart Cleaning Professional Services, a janitorial and cleaning service. He launched the company with his older brother Ricardi Faustin, and their friend Jean Lucio Joseph in 2010. The company offers residential and commercial services with a twist. All products used are completely eco-friendly, which Faustin says “differentiates him from his competitors.” “Aside from being different, I wanted to really support the environment,” said Faustin, speaking about the benefits of green cleaning. “I know when I use [nongreen] chemicals I can’t stay in the same room where they were used from the smell. It can’t be good for your health.” The business’ first year in operation was a success. They made more than $10,000 in revenue and recruited more than 15 customers. “Smart Cleaning Professional Services is the fourth commercial cleaning company we’ve had in four years, and the difference is night and day,” said Jason Burger, a member of the board of directors at CSS Alliance, a security service business based in Michigan with offices in South Florida.
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Faustin handles all aspects of the business. He subcontracts workers, finds clients and at times, cleans himself. “It’s my business. It’s important to get the work done,” said Faustin. “If I have a job and it needs to be done I just don’t supervise. I get in and get my hands dirty. I’m not scared to. Even though I subcontract, at times I need to do it myself. It’s my business; my name; my brand and I need to protect it.” A student at the College since 2006, Faustin is a native of Portau-Prince, Haiti. He’s scheduled to finish his associate degree in the fall of 2011. Faustin credits his professors at MDC for helping him branch out on his own. He specifically points to professor Stephen Colyer, who helped him develop his marketing plan. “His ideas are sound and his business can be developed and scaled nicely,” said Colyer. “The next step is to continue to formalize his existing business plan and
see if it attracts the financing he wants.” Faustin is confident he can take his business to the next level. He wants to focus on acquiring larger government contracts, and expand to different markets. “I want to add new products and services,” Faustin said. “I’m trying to create a one stop shop. If I can provide janitorial and cleaning services I want to be able to provide landscaping services and waste management. I think the package will be appealing if I can sell you more.” Aside from being an entrepreneur, Faustin isn’t completely consumed by his business. He’d like to get back to doing some of the things he enjoyed doing before his business took off. “I was a DJ and a party planner; ever y t wo months I’d organize these big parties,” Faustin said. “I had to stop because of how business is going, but hopefully with business going well there will be time for that later.”
GREGORY CASTILLO / THE REPORTER
Polished Professional: Faustin’s cleaning business only uses eco-friendly cleaning products at all residential and commercial janitorial contracts.
VISIT US ONLINE: WWW.MDC.EDU/THEREPORTER
FROM SMOKING, FRONT
ness of the College’s students and personnel, it is my humble opinion that the probability for approval [of the smoking ban] is high,” said College Provost Rolando Montoya. The new smoking policy is an extension of the existing one established in 1985, prohibiting smoking inside buildings including atria, entryways and enclosed hallways. The new ban would prohibit smoking everywhere on College grounds including outdoor areas, parking lots, rooftops, plazas and courtyards. Violators will be reminded of the policy and asked to comply. “Maybe there should only be designated smoking areas versus banning smok ing altoget her,” said Eno Aguado a music business major at Kendall Campus. “This is an adult facility, this is not high school.” The College has been discussing the damage tobacco and smoking cause to human health for years. Six months ago the discussions intensified. “We observed the national trend of creating smoke-free campuses,” Montoya said. “Those who desire to smoke have to do it outside college property.” MDC is not the first college in Florida to ban smoking. The University of Florida prohibited smoking in July of 2010. Florida Inter-
national University instituted a smoking ban this past January. “Initially there was some resistance from students and some were upset that we hadn’t communicated to them,” said Director for the University Health Services at FIU, Oscar Lyonaz.. “I think now [students] are handling it well, I have noticed fewer smokers than before.” FIU uses social enforcement to imply the policy at their campus. Miami Dade College hopes to do the same. “I’m a student at MDC but, I visit friends at FIU and as I walk around the campus I see smokers to my left and right,” said Kendall Campus student Evan Rodriguez. “That’s why I feel it would be more understandable if we did not completely ban smoking because students would still smoke where ever they please.” The smoking ban initiative at MDC is supported by the Student Gover n ment A ssociat ion, t he Faculty Union, the Support Staff Council, the Academic Leadership Council, the Student Deans council, and the Administrative Deans Council. “It’s about time,” said Ben Sharp, a histor y major at the Wolfson Campus. “Some people think it’s restriction after restriction, but second hand smoke kills. I feel like the campus is finally taking account of everyone’s health.”
HIALEAH CAMPUS
Motivating Students, Leaving His Mark Victor Calderin is a professor and one of the founding advisers for the Hialeah Campus literary magazine, Café Cultura. By Julie McConnell julie.mcconnell 001@mymdc.net As a professor and adviser, Victor Calderin motivates students at the Hialeah Campus. Calderin was born and raised in Hialeah, Florida. After graduating from American Senior High School in 1994, he attended Florida International University until 1996 and transferred to University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. He completed his bachelor’s degree in English and comparative literature in 1998 and a master’s degree in comparative literature in 2002. In 2005, Calderin began working as an English professor at Miami Dade College. He is also currently the co-adviser for Café Cultura, faculty adviser for the Anime Club, a faculty co-convener for the English Committee and a co-chair for the Gordon Rule Committee. “He has many students that come to see him in his office and he will spend hours just talking to a student, just talking, talking about anything,” said Ivonne Lamazares, the co-adviser of Café Cultura, the literary magazine at Hialeah Campus. “Talking about the new films that are coming out, the new books
that he’s reading, whether there is a God; he just has that kind of rapport with his students and he loves it.” The idea to start Café Cultura came after a series of open-mic poet r y readings called Café y Cultura were held at the Hialeah Campus. Calderin and Lamazares have been advisers for the literary magazine ever since. In the 2010 at the Florida Community College Press Association magazine competition, Café Cultura won first place in general excellence in Division A. John Muniz, 22, an alumn of Miami Dade College and former head designer for three years at Café Cultura said Calderin is a big reason for the magazines success. “He really motivates us to work and to picture something great,” Muniz said. “I think he’s the type of person that really knows how to get people together.” Calderin has been inf luenced by various type of literature and authors. “I have a very global perspective of how literature functions and the canon of literature is very epic and not just one type or one country,” Calderin said. “It’s fluid and changes.” That is why Calderin plans to continue sharing his love of literature at Hialeah Campus. “It’s really great teaching at this campus because it’s like teaching at home,” Calderin said.
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he American Council on Education honors Dr. EDuarDo PaDrÓn, chair of the ACE Board of Directors, for his support of higher education and leadership of Miami Dade College.
THE REPORTER
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STAFF SPOTLIGHT: KENDALL CAMPUS
Chief Overseas: Professor Not Just Of This Culture Speech professor and director of debate, John William Todd, is chief of two African tribes, the Mende and the Anang.
MEN’S BASKETBALL HEAD COACH RESIGNATION
Men’s Basketball Coach Eisele Resigns From Position FROM EISELE, FRONT
By Monica Suarez monica.suarez006@mymdc.net Speech professor John William Todd is known as Momah Bakari Comber in parts of Africa. Todd, the director of debate at Kendall Campus, is not an African native. He was born and raised in southeastern Ohio. But that hasn’t stopped him from becoming the chief of two African tribes, the Mende of Sierra Leone and the Anang of Nigeria. Todd wasn’t born chief. His journey started at a young age. “When I was young, 80-85 percent of the boys that graduated high school would work at steel mills or coal mines. I wanted to go to college,” said Todd. “My parents had no money and at the time, the Marines were offering a two-year enlistment with four years of college paid for. So, I went.” From 1957 -1961, he attended Southwestern College in Windfield, Kansas where he double majored in speech and history. By 1961, Todd was a youth minister at a Methodist church. Four years later he joined the Peace Corps and was sent to Sierra Leone in Africa. During a three month period, he took five to six hours of language a day. He mastered Mende, the unwritten language of Sierra Leone. “I had a thing inside of me that made me want to serve,” said Todd. “Those were the two best years of my life.” Todd worked in the jungle doing swamp rice production. He helped setup a freshwater flow system to assist women transporting water to their homes.He also helped establish a hospital in the village. While working with Dr. B.M. Kabba, the only surgeon in Sierra Leone, Todd sat through a surgical procedure. Mid-surgery, the kerosene lantern that was being used ran out. Todd stood over Kabba with a flashlight until the procedure was completed. “After the surgery, when I asked [Kabba] what he wanted more than anything, he said he wanted a hospital for his people,” said Todd. “I said ‘let’s do it’. I gave a call to Operation Crossroads Africa and we got the hospital running.” A Nigerian priest asked Todd to be chief of the Anang and the Mende tribes because of his commitment to their work. As chief, he represents the tribes outside of the country. Todd raises money and works with intercultural communications. “When I was made chief, there was a secret ceremony with rituals and repetition of chants. I even had to drink a special beverage,” said Todd. “It was really great.” Soon after his work in Africa, he became director of Peace Corps recruitment in Chicago, Illinois. Between 1968 and 1969 he went to Central Michigan University for graduate school where he received his master’s degree in speech. He has also served as a speech
COURTESY OF RALI TODD
Renaissance Man: John William Todd—who served as the chief of two African tribes, helped start a university in Belize and was director of the Peace Corps in Jamaica—is now a speech professor and director of debate on Kendall campus.
Globetrotter
Over his career, Todd has been involved in projects all around the world. Here is a brief selection: SOURCES: JOHN WILLIAM TODD GRAPHIC: LAZARO GAMIO
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Southern Sierra Leone, Africa Became chief of the Mende tribe. Nigeria, Africa Became chief of Anang tribe in Nigeria where he still has an open invitation to return. Belize Helped start the University of Belize between 1985 and 1986.
professor at the University of Michigan, the state manager of Michigan High School’s Forensic Association. At Ferris State University, he was the director of debate and speech and the director of international programs. Through these programs, Todd helped start the University of Belize, established Lakeland College in Wisconsin and became vice president of Elliare International College in Tokyo. As director of international programs, he was given contracts to set up educational programs in Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, Belize, Malaysia and Mainland China. “I did it because I believe education opens doors,” said Todd, “ and if you dare to be a little adventurous, you can go far.” In 1989, as director of Peace Corps training, he went to Kingston, Jamaica to set up the U.S. government facility for the Peace Corps. He was then awarded an honorary doctorate for work in international education training and development. In October of 1992, Todd re-
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Vice President of Elliare International College in Tokyo.
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In 1988, Todd was director of Peace Corps training.
According to a memorandum filed on Feb. 11 from MDC Athletic Director Anthony Fiorenza to Eisele, the College looked into allegations that on Feb. 9 he told a student in a loud and threatening tone, “Where the hell do you think you’re going?” The notice later states that Eisele allegedly used profanity in directing the student to remove his things from his locker. Eisele is then accused of using the term “dumb ass,”and threatening to have the student ejected off the premises by the Kendall Campus Public Safety Department before leaving for a game. The Sharks had an away game on Feb. 9 against Palm Beach State College in Lake Worth. Eisele was placed on paid administrative leave two days after the alleged incident. According to Fiorenza’s letter, Eisele was accused of violating College Procedure 2410: conduct unbecoming a College employee, including a failure to be courteous, considerate, respectful to students, the public, or other employees. “My coach did yell but I never witnessed him cross the line. Nothing inappropriate or vile,” said forward Maurice Kemp Jr. “He always did it to motivate us. Nothing else.” When asked whether or not Eisele was aggressive or disrespectful to them, all nine players who were active on the roster at the end of last year said they appreciated his tough yet motivational style. Sophomore guard Zachary Lamb said Eisele’s dialogue could have easily been misinterpreted. “Coach was not aggressive, he was passionate, not laid back.,”
Lamb said. “This is business, its the next level.” Maurice Kemp Sr., the father of forward Maurice Kemp Jr., said he attended many of his son’s games. “As a parent, I would have to say, anything about Coach Eisele verbally abusing the players is false,” said Maurice Kemp Sr. “These are young men he is dealing with, not children.” It is unclear if a timetable has been set for hiring a permanent head basketball coach. Manny Mendez, an assistant coach on last year’s team, will remain the interim head coach until a new head coach is found. Four players from last year’s team are eligible to return to next year’s squad. They said they are frustrated with College administrators’ lack of information surrounding Eisele’s departure. “If I’m here on a scholarship, I don’t know why they’re not telling us. We’ve been left in the dark,” Ellis said. “I don’t know what’s gonna happen next year.”
THE SCOOP Matthew Eisele started at MDC in 2006 as an assistant coach. He later served as the interim head coach from August 2007 through June 2009. In July of 2009 he was named the permanent head coach. Eisele’s record was 77-37 during four years at the College. EISELE Several of Eisele’s players transferred to prominent Division I schools such as the University of Cincinnati, the University of Kentucky, the University of Memphis, and Kansas State University.
6 Big Rapids, Michigan
Todd was professor of speech as well as director of debate at Ferris State University. turned from Jamaica with thoughts of retiring. However, he soon realized there was still work to be done. So he came to MDC nine years ago. Todd coaches the debate team. Ximena Cuadra, 19, a mass communications major at North Campus and a rookie debater, is excited to get better under Todd’s tutelage. “He is by far one of the best teachers I’ve had,” Cuadra said. “I really look forward to having him as a professor and to get better as a debater to compete.” Todd has not only influenced students and communities around the world, he has also influenced his family. According to Rali Todd, 25, Todd’s middle child, his dad is nothing short of amazing. “I think about my dad and it makes me realize how far I am from becoming a well rounded man,” said Rali Todd. “When you get an opportunity to have a person in your life that is as awesome as my dad, you can’t help but feel lucky every single day.”
VISIT US ONLINE: WWW.MDC.EDU/THEREPORTER
2011 NORTH AND WEST CAMPUS GRADUATION
Commencement To Be Delivered By Commander-In-Chief FROM OBAMA, FRONT
House spokesperson, there is no information about Obama’s speech at this time. College President Eduardo Padrón’s affiliation with Obama, helped make the visit possible. In October 2010, Padrón became the Chair of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanic Americans, one of the many national recognitions he has received. According to Juan Mendieta, the director of communications at MDC, the College does not pay for guest speakers. “He just has very strong relationships at Washington and when he asks for something, people typically agree,” Mendieta said. Since he took office, Obama’s administration has concentrated on community colleges.
“Because people need to be able to train for new jobs and careers in today’s fast-changing economy, we’re also revitalizing America’s community colleges,” Obama said during the state of the union address in January 2011. “America has fallen to ninth in the proportion of young people with a college degree. And so the question is whether all of us—as citizens, and as parents—are willing to do what’s necessary to give every child a chance to succeed.” Even some students who are not supportive of Obama still view the opportunity to hear him speak as a privilege. “Just because I don’t agree with his ideals and policies, doesn’t mean I don’t find it amazing that he’ll be attending the graduation,” said Priscilla Almeida, a 19- yearold political science major.
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NEWS
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MARCH 28, 2011
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THE REPORTER
CARRIE P. MEEK ENTREPRENEURIAL EDUCATION CENTER
Choose MDC for your degree!
A College Extension Provides Outreach Miami Dade College’s Carrie P. Meek Entrepreneurial Education Center is the only college level academic center in the Liberty City community. By Kirsten Rincon kirsten.rincon001@mymdc.net
Bachelor’s degrees available in Education Electronics Engineering Technology Film, Television & Digital Production Nursing Physician Assistant Studies Public Safety Management Supervision and Management
The Carrie P. Meek Entrepreneurial Education Center is an outreach center to Miami Dade College North Campus. “We are just like any other campus, but instead we serve as a hub for entrepreneurship,” said Meek Center Executive Director H. Leigh Toney. The Center offers college credit and non-credit courses for both degree and non-degree seeking students. There are also opportunities to pursue certificate and vocational programs. Students at the Meek Center can obtain workforce and business skills training to enter the labor market or become successful entrepreneurs. The Meek Center, 6300 NW 7th Ave., is located approximately six miles from North Campus.It’s a full-service center, which includes an accessible library. “We are usually swamped with students,” said Meek Center Head Librarian Theo Karantsalis. “We do everything from helping students with homework, accessing any data or research and locating books anywhere from the 28 different community colleges we are partnered with around Florida.” The Meek Center serves approximately 3,500 students per year with an average
COURTESY OF PHIL ROCHE/ MDC MEDIA RELATIONS
Location, Location: The MEEC is the only institution of higher learning serving Liberty City.
WEST CAMPUS
Exhibiting The Art Of Roberto Estopiñán Miami Dade College West Campus showcases artist in an exhibition from March 18 to April 12. By Kirsten Rincon kirsten.rincon001@mymdc.net Miami Dade College’s West Campus paid tribute to Cuban sculptor, craftsman and print maker Roberto Estopiñán on March 18 during the opening reception of an art exhibition showcasing his work. The exposition titled Roberto Estopiñán, Homage to a Great Master on His 90th Anniversary, appropriately opened on Estopiñán’s 90th birthday. It displays his work that has spanned 60 years. It includes 29 paintings and 25 sculptures. “We had been working in preparation of this event for over a year,” said Gustavo Orta, who curated the event. “The result
You can use what you’ve already learned – transfer credits from the A.S., A.A.S. and A.A. degrees!
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COURTESY OF MDC MEDIA RELATIONS
The Power of Opportunity
class size of 30 students. MDC opened the Entrepreneurial Education Center, becoming the only institution of higher education with an academic center in the Liberty City community. “What makes the center special is its ability to offer students the kind of oneon-one relationship that is a major indicator of the students success,” Toney said. “We really try to understand the students’ goals and the varying responsibilities they bring with them, so by the time they get here everyday we can ensure they are getting the best education they can get.”
Cuban Creativity: Roberto Estopiñán is being honored with a special exhibition featuring his work.
has been spectacular with over 600 people that have come and shown their support.” One of the paintings showcased was Estopiñán’s Abanico/Hand Fan from the Ester & Gustavo Orta Collection. It was drawn in honor of his gay friend and his ability to express his acceptance of the gay community. Estopiñán enrolled at the San Alejandro Academy when he was just 14-yearsold and became studio assistant to sculptor Juan José Sicre. Years later, along with masters Guido Llinas, Tomas Oliva, Rita Longa and Hugo Consuegra, he started and became a part of the Vanguardia generation, known for its colorful and joyful depictions of Cuban flowers, fruits and other vegetation. This group of people captured vibrant colors and landscapes. In 1961, Estopñian departed from Cuba and moved to New York, where he resided until 2002 before moving to Miami where he retired. “Tonight has been simply astonishing,” Estopiñán said at the opening reception of his latest exhibit at the West Campus. The showcase is open through April 12. It is free to the public. ———————————————————————— What: Roberto Estopiñán, Homage to a Great Master on His 90th Anniversary Where: MDC West Campus, 3800 N.W. 115th Ave., Room 1101. When: March 18 through April 12 For more information, contact: MDC Art Gallery System T (305) 237-7700 B galleries@mdc.edu
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THE REPORTER
SCOREBOARD (*) HOME GAME (†) CONFERENCE GAME
MEN’S BASEBALL
—————————————————————————— *†03/11-PALM BEACH STATE, 15-11 LOST —————————————————————————— †03/12—AWAY AT PALM BEACH STATE, PALM BEACH, FLA. 6-0 WON —————————————————————————— †03/15—AWAY AT INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE, FT. PIERCE, FLA. 5-4 LOST —————————————————————————— *†03/16—INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE, 13-1 WON —————————————————————————— †03/22—AWAY AT BROWARD COLLEGE, DAVIE, FLA. 6-4 LOST —————————————————————————— *†03/23—BROWARD COLLEGE, 12-2 WON —————————————————————————— AS OF 03/22 OVERALL RECORD (23-8) SOUTHERN CONFERENCE (7-3)
WOMEN’S SOFTBALL
—————————————————————————— *†03/12—BREVARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE, DOUBLE HEADER GAME 1: 3-0 WON—GAME 2: 3-1 WON —————————————————————————— †03/19—AWAY INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE AT FT.PIERCE, FLA. DOUBLE HEADER GAME 1: 9-1 LOST—GAME 2: 5-4 LOST —————————————————————————— *†03/23—BROWARD COLLEGE DOUBLE HEADER GAME 1: 8-0 WON—GAME 2: 10-2 WON —————————————————————————— AS OF 03/22 OVERALL RECORD (18-14) SOUTHERN CONFERENCE (6-2)
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MARCH 28, 2011
WOMEN’S SOFTBALL
—————————————————————————— †03/26-03/27-AWAY AT SOUTHERN CONFERENCE TOURNAMENT AT MELBOURNE, FLA. VS PALM BEACH STATE COLLEGE VS BROWARD COLLEGE VS INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE VS BREVARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE —————————————————————————— †03/30—AWAY PALM BEACH STATE COLLEGE AT PALM BEACH, FLA. DOUBLE HEADER —————————————————————————— †04/02—AWAY BREVARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE AT MELBOURNE, FLA. DOUBLE HEADER
NOTEBOOK 2011 Southern Conference Player Of The Year Sophomore Forward Ashley Wilkes: 20.7 points per game, 10.5 rebounds per game, shot 43 field goal percentage. She will now move on to Division I Canisius College after recieving a 2 year scholarship to play basketball there. All-Southern Conference Women’s Basketball Team 1st Team: Sophomore forward Ashley Wilkes, Sophomore guard Melanie Ducott 2nd Team: Sophomore forward Kandis Frederick, Sophomore point guard Tory Stephens, Sophomore center Smiljana Cuk, Freshmen wing Kiana Morton
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SPORTS
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Lady Shark Earns Player of The Week Honors Miami Dade College softball player Stephanie Buendia was named the Florida College System Activity Association player of the week for March 9 through March 15. Buendia, a center fielder, batted .583 with and had four RBI during the week. She helped the Lady Sharks sweep two double headers against Southern BUENDIA Conference rivals Palm Beach State College and Brevard College. “It feels good to win the award,” said Buendia, a sophomore. “But it is not a big deal because it is not going to affect how well I play.” Head Coach Carlos Caro said Buendia’s offensive output has been a great bonus to the team. “Being player of the week has motivated her to continue playing strong,” Caro said. “Although it was a team effort, her contribution was huge for our team’s success.” Samira Tanaka, a freshman infielder with the Lady Sharks, said Buendia has turned things around not after a rough start. “It’s because of her hard work and determination she was able to improve and earned the award,” Tanaka said. —Alexander Perez
MEN’S BASEBALL
—————————————————————————— *†03/25 VS BREVARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE —————————————————————————— *†03/26 VS BREVARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE —————————————————————————— †03/29 VS PALM BEACH STATE AT PALM BEACH, FLA —————————————————————————— *†03/30 VS PALM BEACH STATE —————————————————————————— *†04/01 VS INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE
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New Recruits Are On Their Way For The Lady Sharks The Miami Dade College softball team is restocking its roster. Ten players, six from Miami-Dade County and four from Central Florida have signed national letters of intent. The players will be eligible to play with the Lady Sharks next year. “This group is great,” said Head Coach Carlos Caro. “This class is as good or can be better than our championship winning class.” The players are: Carolina Otero, 18, (shortstop) of Miami Gulliver Preparatory School; Ally Schneider, 17, (outfielder) of Florida Christian; Ellen Morgan, 17, (pitcher) of Robert Morgan Educational Center (she plays softball at Miami Southridge Senior High School because Morgan does not have athletics’); Ericka Acevedo,18,( Pitcher) of Doral Academy Preparatory School ; Kayla Ogle,18, (centerfielder) and Meagan Lee,18, (third base and pitcher) of South Dade Senior High School ; Carmen Sophia Nadal,17, (first baseman) & Nicole Osterman, 18, (shortstop and catcher), both from Osceola High School in Orlando; Paris Nicole Prusak,18, (catcher) from Bishop Verot High School and Hashel Figueroa,18,(Utility player) of University High School in Orlando, Fla. Figueroa is hitting .300, with five stolen bases and five RBI. She played for the Puerto Rican Junior National Team in 2010. Acevedo is 9-3 and has an 1.14 ERA and 74 strikeouts. She also is hitting .560 with 5 home runs and 26 RBI this season. “I can’t wait to be on the field and be a part of the team,” Acevedo said. Otero is hitting .400 and has three home runs. She was a second-team All-Dade selection. “I’m super excited,” Otero said. Caro believes the group can be special. “I believe all of them can make an immediate impact on next season’s roster,” Caro said.
Slug Shot: Sharks center fielder Brian Goodwin hits a fly ball during the 2nd inning of a 12-2 victory over Broward College on March 23. The team plays a southern conference game against Brevard College on March 25, at Kendall Campus.
Batter Up Midway through their respective seasons, the MDC men’s baseball team and women’s softball team are looking to take their year into the Southern Conference Playoffs and further. As of March 22, the Mens team stands at 23-8 and the Womens team stands at 18-14 respectively. PHOTOS BY GREGORY CASTILLO / THE REPORTER
Swing Dance: Veronica Fukunishi hits a single during the Lady Sharks 4-1 victory over Palm Beach State College. The team stands at a record of 18-14 as of March 22, and will travel to Melbourne, Fl for a two game Southern Conference Tournament on March 26.
—Roudy Mauricin VISIT US ONLINE: WWW.MDC.EDU/THEREPORTER
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THE REPORTER
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MARCH 28, 2011
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WOMEN’S BASEBALL
Looking For An Encore Season
// SPORTS Hector Gonzalez, Sports Editor //
SPORTS
B hector.gonzalez012@mymdc.net
Miami Dade College softball team started their Southern Conference Play with hopes of winning it to keep their postseason hopes alive. By Hector Gonzalez Hector.gonzalez012@mymdc.net Last year, the Miami Dade College’s softball team dominated their opponents on the road to taking the Southern Conference title. Things are different this year. The Lady Sharks are at 16-14 and 4-2 in the Southern Conference. Head Coach Carlos Caro said injuries have prevented the team from winning tight games. “We have competed fairly, the problem is we’ve lost six out of 12 games by one run and another three games by a total of two runs,” Caro said. “Also players have been hit with sport related injuries.” Freshmen catcher Karen Pedraza is out for the season with a
shoulder injury; sophomore outfielder Captain Veronika Fukunishi is playing through the pain of toe inflammation; freshmen pitcher Rachel Meagley missed a week after a slip and fall accident at her residence injured her shoulder. Freshman Allora Miller injured her knee during the off-season, tearing her anterior cruciate ligament. Miller is finding her way back into the lineup after knee surgery last September. “It was hard, because I knew we were better than what we were playing, at the same time you have to stay positive and I pushed myself hard to get back,” Miller said. Caro said his team is poised to continue an upward trajectory. “We can make a late run, get our kids stronger and healthier and go back to business,” Caro said. “If we play our best softball we should be able to compete, the bottom of the lineup started slow but now we are hitting better and playing better defense.”
GREGORY CASTILLO / THE REPORTER
Hot Potato: Sharks pitcher Jharel Cotton throws a strike against a batter during the sharks 12-2 win against Broward College on March 23 at Kendall Campus. Cotton has a 2.25 ERA as of March 22 with a record for 4-1. MEN’S BASEBALL
Sharks Unable To Hold On To National Ranking The men’s baseball team where ranked # 1 in the nation for a brief moment until a recent slump has them falling out of the top. By Maloha Acevedo maloha.acevedo001@mymdc.net After spending a week as the No. 1 community college baseball team in the nation, Miami Dade College suffered two loses knocking them out of the top spot. On March 22, the Sharks were defeated by Broward College 6-4; earlier in the week they lost to Indian River State College 5-4. The team now boasts a 23- 8 overall record with a 7-3 mark in Southern Conference play. Head Coach Danny Price believes his team can play better.
“You don’t go and play like this when you are the No.1 team in the nation,” Price said. “Sometimes it’s a death wish. I don’t think we’ve earned that. As a team we are not there yet.” The teams strength this year has been their pitching and a stout offense. Sophomore pitcher Derek Law has a 0.88 ERA and an overall record of 6 -2; Jharel Cotton has a 2.25 ERA with a 3-1 record. Freshman catcher Leonardo Rojas leads the team with 29 RBI. Freshman Jorge Vega-Rosado has 23 RBI . Ozney Guillen leads the team with eight stolen bases followed by center fielder Brian Goodwin, who has seven. According to sophomore catcher Alexander San Juan, the team
has not reached their maximum potential. “There is always room for improvement,” San Juan said. “If we’re having success at this point of the season, by the time we reach our max we will be very difficult to beat.” Guillen feels anything short of a national championship would be disappointing. “We have to keep working hard, ” Guillen said. Defense is the thing the team needs the most work at. They have committed 42 errors. The Sharks said they are not where they want to be, but feel confident they can get there. “The future will take care of itself,” Price said. “One game at a time and learn to get over the ones you lost.”
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GREGORY CASTILLO / THE REPORTER
Home Sweet Home: Kiara Bori-Nazario scores during the Lady Shark’s 4-1 victory against Palm Beach State College on March 9.
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Q&A
A&E
Denis Villeneuve During the 28th Annual Miami International Film Festival, Canadian director Denis Villeneuve sat down for a one-on-one interview with The Reporter. The Oscar nominated director gave insight into his cinematic experience with short anecdotes regarding his latest—Incendies—and several other topics. Interview conducted by Jessica Medina at The Royal Palm Hotel on Saturday, March 12.
Classical comes to campus. Just as some aspects of college are timeless, classical music never goes out of style. Public radio station Classical South Florida is all classical, all the time. Listen on 89.7 FM or stream online from anywhere at classicalsouthflorida.org
Star Struck: Academy Awardnominated director Denis Villeneuve was in town as part of the festivities surrounding the 28th annual Miami International Film Festival. RICHARD PIZARRO / THE REPORTER
Q: What inspired you to write Incendies? It’s based on a play. I went to a small theatre in Montreal to see a play because I knew the author, Wajdi Mouawad; he is very famous at home. It was just by pure curiosity I went. I was not looking for material. I never thought I would adapt something for the screen. I just fell in love with this fantastic, powerful story. The play lasted about four hours, and I remember in the theatre there was no more oxygen—just pure emotion. The audience was in a kind of shock, and when I was walking out of the theatre I decided it would be my next movie. Most of the time when you hear stories like this they have been written four hundred years ago in Europe, but this was written by someone my age, almost my neighbor; he was living in Montreal, a young guy. I was totally astonished by his authenticity. Q: Did he work with you on the screenplay? No, I was alone. Q: In the beginning of the film you give a very Stanley Kubrick type shot—the extreme close up of the face. Were you inspired by Kubrick or purposefully trying to create the same emotional effect Kubrick gives with this type of shot? It is very difficult in 2010 to make a movie and not be inspired by thousands of movies, and Kubrick is one of my favorite film directors. Of course, when I was making this shot I was not thinking of Kubrick but it would be a lie to say I’m not influenced by Kubrick. When I make a shot, I try to be the first one, but of course I’m very influenced.
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THE REPORTER
Q: Who inspires you besides Kubrick? There are a lot of film directors, but Ingmar Bergman is really a God for me. I’m a huge Coppola fan. I must say one of the directors that introduced me to movies when I was young, being from a small town the screens were filled with American directors, but one stood out. Steven Spielberg introduced me to the idea of “what it was to be a film maker”.
to Radiohead, [they were] on the set, it was a part of the cinematic process. The classical music came in the editing room. I went to Paris, France to look for a composer. He’s a very talented man by the name of Grégoire Hetzel, and he composed all the score. Even the opera at the end of the film was written by Hetzel. At the end I wanted to use Spinning Plates from Radiohead, the piano version, but what Hetzel did was so beautiful I had to use it.
Q: Did you personally pick Radiohead to score the film? Making a film in Canada allows me to be in total control of everything creative regarding the film. Every artistic decision is me, not a producer. I wrote the film with the Radiohead songs in mind. In order to convince Wajdi Mouawad I did have to write several small scenes inspired by the play, somewhat direct transpositions, just images that would come to my mind, but he wanted me to be totally free. He said to me, “I give you total freedom, you can do what you want. I want you to go as far as you can.” Now, I had to respect his idea and the story. The first thing I wrote was the first scene of the movie for him and it was with Radiohead. So, Radiohead is there since the beginning. Like I said, I don’t work with a lot of money, for me it was a kind of fantasy to have Radiohead in the movie. I was saying to myself: “I will never get the rights because it will be too expensive” but, with Radiohead it’s not about money. They have to like the film, if they don’t like it they won’t give you their rights. So they were the first ones that saw the film in England. It was the first time anyone had ever seen it. We sent the movie to England and I was waiting beside the phone for two weeks, and I don’t know who looked at the film. They told me the band looked at the film, but I don’t think its true. I think maybe one or two of them looked at the film, I don’t know. But still, they are my favorite band so I’m very happy.
Q: Where was the film shot? A small part was shot in Canada, but [most] was shot in Jordan. The north of Jordan looks like the south of Lebanon. I went to Lebanon several times and various film makers said to me, “If you want the same landscape you should go to the north of Jordan.” The south of Lebanon is a war zone and its not very easy or a good idea to shoot a movie when people are rebuilding their house. You don’t feel very comfortable making a film there (laughs). I decided to shoot in Jordan and some in Amman. It was very fun. It was a fantastic experience. I shot the movie with people from all parts of the Middle East, and Jordan is a very young film industry so there are no technicians there. Everyone was very helpful. The government and the army were very helpful, but we needed to bring equipment in and technicians. It was a collaborative effort. In fact we shot with almost the same crew from The Hurt Locker. I saw the The Hurt Locker after I shot Incendies and some actors were even the same so that was a little funny.
Q: How did you determine when to use Radiohead and when to use classical music? The thing is Radiohead was planned; all the songs were on the script. I shot those scenes listening
Q: When and how did you decide to write and direct film? I hate this question because I don’t know the answer. I wanted to be a film director since I was ten or twelve. I don’t know, I always knew I wanted to write stories and tell stories. I love cinema. You know, in Canada the most important thing is hockey and I’m very bad. I’m the worst hockey player in Canada. So I was always sitting on the bench looking at my friends playing hockey, and I had a lot of time to think and make stories in my head. I think that is why I’m a film director.
Filmography
Villeneuve has directed numerous films dating back to 1998’s Un 32 août sur terre. Here is a look at his films since 2000. 1998 Un 32 août sur terre—The story of a young girl who—after being involved in a near fatal car crash—begins to question her mortality and decides she should have a child. 2000 Maelström —Shortly after her car plunges into a river, a woman meets a man who helps her comes to terms with the issues in her life. 2008 Next Floor —An unexpected series of events disrupts a elegant banquet where pampered guests indulge in a gruesome ritual. 2009 Polytechnique —A dramatic depiction of the Montreal Massacre of 1989, where several female engineering were targeted and killed by a misogynistic murderer. 2010 Incendies —The Academy Award-nominated tale of two brothers who embark on a journey to the Middle East to uncover some hidden truths about their family history. The film was showcased as part of the closing night ceremonies of the 2011 Miami International Film Festival.
VISIT US ONLINE: WWW.MDC.EDU/THEREPORTER
SOURCE: IMDB—TEXT: MARK PULASKI
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THE REPORTER
MARCH 28, 2011
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A&E
// A&E Mark Pulaski, A&E Editor //
T (305) 237-1254
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B mark.pulaski001@mymdc.net
COURTESY OF UNIVERSAL STUDIOS
COURTESY OF PARAMOUNT PICTURES
Animation Domination
Going Gonzo: Johnny Depp portrays a chameleon who is not satisfied with blending in with the animated feature Rango.
Out Of This World: With a blend of live-action and CG graphics, Paul delivers laughs from light-years away.
RANGO: FILM REVIEW
PAUL: FILM REVIEW
Fear And Loathing With A Chameleon
In Space, Everyone Can Hear You Laugh
Stunning visuals, wacky characters, and a plot featuring adult themes makes Rango more than your average animated kiddie movie.
Comedy duo Simon Pegg and Nick Frost deliver their latest laughs via outer space in the new sci-fi comedy, Paul.
By J.C. Urbina juancarlos.urbina001@mymdc.net
By Carolina del Busto carolina.delbusto001@mymdc.net
Using only his voice, Johnny Depp has once again become one of the most memorable characters in film. He teams up with director Gore Verbinski for the fourth time (after working together on the original Pirates of the Caribbean trilogy) to bring the reptilian hero Rango to life. Rango tells the story of an unnamed pet chameleon (voiced by Depp), whose loneliness and identity crisis are masked by his passion for acting. When his tank accidentally flies off his human family’s car, he finds himself stranded in a scorching desert in Nevada. Wandering with a thirst for water and purpose, the chameleon finds himself in the small town of Dirt—modeled after an old-fashioned “spaghettiwestern” community with all sorts of unscrupulous, gun-totin’, water-thirsty residents. Out of fear for his life (since “strangers don’t last long here”), the chameleon fools all of Dirt’s residents by playing the selfgiven role of “Rango”—a fearless, gun-slinging warrior from the far West. Breathtaking is not even a strong enough word to describe the film’s computer animation. From the anthropomorphic characters to the beautiful scenery to the dreamlike sequences, the visuals are so incredibly realistic and imaginative that they’re haunting. The story is effective and forces the protagonist to be as three-dimensional as possible, but the minor characters are too heavily based on stereotypes and aren’t given a chance to be more original with their personalities. However, the dialogue and the humor incorporated into it are truly original. The film’s jokes often have inappropriate connotations behind them that may or may not fly over children’s heads—but that’s why the film is exceedingly hilarious and effective. Rango is a landmark in computer animation and film storytelling. Adults and children will enjoy it differently, but the line separating those two target audiences is hilariously obvious when watching the film. Depp has once again proved himself to be one of Hollywood’s brightest stars. He has not lost his charm.
From the comical mind behind Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz comes a delightful comedy of galactic proportions—Paul. There are a few things one can always expect when it comes to a Simon Pegg film: First, his real life best friend, Nick Frost, will star alongside him as his onscreen counterpart. Second, the film is meant to be a spoof. And finally, it is going to be funny and clever. Two best friends, Graeme and Clive (played by Pegg and Frost) head out on a good old-fashioned American road trip in search of the world’s most popular extraterrestrial sights; such as Area 51, the Black Mailbox, and Roswell, New Mexico. While on the road, they encounter something out of this world – an alien. The alien, Paul, has been living on Earth for more than 60 years, but now it is time for him to phone home. Graeme and Clive—being science fiction nerds—befriend Paul and take him on board their RV and drive him to safety away from the government agents who are after him. Outrunning the Secret Service is not easy, especially in an RV, but it sure is funny. This is the perfect movie for a science-fiction buff. Many references to classic alien films can be recognized throughout. A great way to get into the film and have a little fun is by guessing which movie the lines are from. Pay special attention to references to Star Wars: Episode IV–A New Hope, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Star Trek, and Alien. The film features an outstanding supporting cast, with familiar faces such as Jason Bateman, Kristen Wiig, Blythe Danner, Bill Hader, Jane Lynch, and Sigourney Weaver. Even Steven Spielberg himself lends his vocal talents for a cameo. Paul is sure to deliver many laughs, and it just might make you tear up a bit at the end.
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
Rango—Johnny Depp, Isla Fisher, Timothy Olyphant—1 hour 47 minutes—Rated PG
Paul—Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Seth Rogen— 1 hour 44 minutes—Rated R
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Bright Lights: After being delayed for more than a year, Lupe Fiasco’s Lasers finally hit store shelves on March 8. LASERS: ALBUM REVIEW
Lupe’s Lasers Lacks Love, Loses Listeners More than a year after its announcement, Lupe Fiasco’s highly anticipated Lasers fails to amass listeners with pop-laden tracks and a disconnected feel. By Gregory Castillo gregory.castillo001@mymdc.net Amid controversy surrounding his third studio album, Chicago based MC Lupe Fiasco’s highly anticipated Album Lasers has finally dropped. With pressure coming from Atlantic Records to change the music’s sound and a postponed release date due to conflicts between both parties, the long delayed record is not what fans or critics—including Lupe Fiasco himself—came to recognize the acclaimed rapper for. The follow up to 2007’s Grammy award-nominated The Cool, Lasers struggles to find its own voice in almost every song. In “I Don’t Wanna Care Right Now” featuring MDMA, Fiasco’s trademark deep-meaning, intricate lyrics are sacrificed for an upbeat electropop experience. The result leaves you feeling like Fiasco mailed in his verses, and like the title of the song implies, really didn’t want to care. The disconnection with the music is evident throughout the album. As explained in a February interview with Complex Magazine, when discussing the album’s first
Iggy Pop To Headline Arts And Letters Day Rock-and-Roll icon Iggy Pop will be the keynote speaker at the Kendall Campus’ 19th Annual Arts and Letters Day. Pop will talk about his career and life on Wednesday, April 6 at noon at the Kendall Campus, 11011 S.W 104 St, Room 6120. Arts and Letters Day will take place April 5 to April 6. The event is coordinated by professors from the music, theatre,
single “The Show Goes On”, Fiasco said, “I didn’t have anything to do with that record. It was the label’s [record].” Even with the record’s struggles, Fiasco’s talent manages to appear, briefly, on a pair of songs. “Words I Never Said”, the albums second single, is a heavily political-driven assault on topics such as a biased media, government corruption and worldwide violence. The song features a chorus from Grammy-nominated female vocalist Skylar Grey. “All Black Everything”—the Album’s 11th track—is billed as another intelligent, well-conceived tune dealing with race, government, and social stature that includes Fiasco’s trademark lingering message of positive social change. Though glimmers of a onceheard Fiasco appear, overall, Lasers doesn’t make the cut. The lack of a collective musical theme has the album falling short, even to loyal Lupe fans. For many, the album’s delay was indefinite, not just in the years and months that actually passed, but because after listening to Lasers, you never really hear the Lupe Fiasco we are all used to.
2 out of 5
Lasers— Lupe Fiasco—Atlantic Records—12 tracks—47 minutes, 41 seconds
dance, and the English departments, with the simple goal of rejoicing in the arts. There will be lectures, concerts, dance performances, debates, a scavenger hunt, a fashion show, and sidewalk chalk painting. This year’s theme is “Chaos, Conflict, and Controversy.” —Carolina del Busto For more information, contact: Marta Magellan T (305) 237-2931 B mmagella@mdc.edu
No Limits For Limitless Limitless starring Robert De Niro and Bradley Cooper, is a sci-fi thriller in which a pill increases productivity in those who take it, enabling them to utilize their full potential. Excellent acting by Cooper makes the film a hit. —By Zayda Costa
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CHANGE YOUR THINKING
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Degree Completion Programs Designed for Adults Low residency (small classes, online, or hybrid) Accelerated (earn 8 credits in 8 weeks) Financial aid for those who qualify UNDERGRADUATE Bachelor of Science with majors in: Business Management (HR, MIS, Marketing) Criminal Justice Management Elementary Education Exceptional Student Education Secondary Education Social Work
www.myunion.edu 800.486.7141 or 305.653.7141 AdmissionsMiami@myunion.edu 16853 NE 2nd Avenue, North Miami Beach, FL 33162 Non-profit, private, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (ncahlc.org)
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THE REPORTER
SPRING BREAK
Abercrombie Zombies Invade South Beach’s Shores A love and hate relationship with beach-crowding, beercan tossing, spring break invaders.
By Rafael Tur rafael.tur001@mymdc.net
to the over-priced Clevelander. These rich students come to town driving their gas-guzzling Hummers and talking way louder than any Cuban. And since Miami is Cancun without the gang wars and the excessive kidnappings, South Florida is the prime location for overprivileged university kids to come and litter with beer cans, vodka bottles—and more beer cans. Perhaps this is a symptom of all coastal cities. Maybe Miami is one of those cities that moves too fast for students to take a break in the middle of spring and then be
IT’S SPRING BREAK time and we all know what that means: Miami Dade College students get to take tests and study while watching the rest of young America invade our peaceful Ocean Drive and take up all the good space on our beaches while listening to over-played rap music. There will be loads of parties, tons of tequila, and plenty of wrinkled Abercrombie shirts—pretty much everything that makes-up Jersey Shore. It seems ironic, living in Miami with no spring break. The rest of the world labels our coastal city paradise, but for us locals who aren’t retired and don’t live in Hallandale, Miami is just the city we live in. However, every year during spring break, people with Hawaiian necklaces and backward placed caps storm the beaches of our city. They cause fights, criticize local culture, and carry burning crosses from Bongo’s Café
expected to resume their studies. Maybe professors enjoy their jobs too much. Maybe Miami floods with spring breakers because beautiful countries like Egypt and Japan have become war zones either by the hand of mother-nature or by humankind itself. This year let’s welcome young America to our paradise with a bit less ignorance, and a bit of understanding. Let’s even be grateful those kids party the way they do. It’s better than seeing zombies taking control of the world—or is it ?
MANUEL PALOU / THE REPORTER
TEACH. LEAD. CAUSE AN EFFECT.
QUICKFIRE
Education Budget Cuts Will Sting
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AFTER GRADUATING from high school in 2009 I feel like I dodged a major bullet. Ever since receiving the coveted rite of passage—my highschool diploma— I’ve heard more and more about budget cuts facing the Florida school system. Rick Scott, our newly elected governor, has recently proposed an exorbitant amount of budget cuts—equivalent to $700 per student according to Amy Graham, Governor Scott’s Deputy Press Secretary—aimed at Florida’s public school system, which is in a less than satisfactory state. My main concern about these cuts is the teachers. If teachers are fired, those that are left will get the spill-over of extra students, which will undoubtedly cause problems. Among those problems is the fact that teachers won’t be able to devote as much time to each student, which could lead to a lower retention rate. If we take money away from the construction of America’s foundation—its students—then our nation will surely crumble. —Rachel Rosenberg
Cafeteria Needs Fast Food Options PRICES ARE RIDICULOUSLY HIGH at the cafeteria. No offense to the staff, but sometimes the food is simply not worth it. It is horrible when you can get the same thing elsewhere for less than it costs in your own cafeteria. Some campuses have other food choices in the vicinity—some aren’t as lucky. Even then, making the choice to leave campus to eat is a big decision; it requires losing
the parking spot that you drove around for 30 minutes to find (That’s another story). I understand that the school needs to make money, but what they are doing to students, staff, and faculty is wrong. The school should recruit fast food restaurants to setup shop on campus and charge them a percentage of the revenue they make. It has worked at other schools, why not ours? I don’t eat food from the cafeteria often, but I hate to see my fellow students suffer like this. —Roudy Mauricin
The ‘Black Plague’ Is Unleashed ON FEBRUARY 10, 2011 a plague was released to the world. The plague we’re talking about isn’t any ordinary vermin-carried sickness, it’s something much worse. The Rebecca Black plague is now in full effect. The 13-year-old pop singer of the song Friday—an auto-tuned, poorly written and cheaply directed music video single—amassed 35 million hits on YouTube by March 22. Quickly becoming infamous on the web for being known as an atrocity to the development of humanity, the single reached the 33rd spot on the iTunes top 100 as of the same date.
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LAZARO GAMIO / THE REPORTER
If the video goes to show us anything, it’s that dreams can come true for anyone. And if mine does, I’d love for Doc Brown to swoop into my drive way, DeLorean tires still burning, lend me the flux capacitor for a bit and let me go back in time to prevent the conception of Friday producer Clarice Ray. —Gregory Castillo
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THE REPORTER
MARCH 28, 2011
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// FORUM Mark Pulaski, Interim Forum Editor //
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HAITI RECOVERY
The Long Road Ahead
The Reporter is the free biweekly student newspaper at Miami Dade College. All content is produced by MDC students. The opinions in this newspaper do not necessarily represent those of the administration, faculty, or the student body.
Bureaus ———————————
LAZARO GAMIO / THE REPORTER
North Campus Bureau B 11380 NW 27th Ave. Room 4209 Miami, FL 33167 T (305) 237-1254 ————————————————— Kendall Campus Bureau B 11011 SW 104th St. Room M239 Miami, FL 33176 T (305) 237-2157 ————————————————— Wolfson Campus Bureau B 300 NE Second Ave. Suite 1610 Miami, FL 33132 T (305) 237-3368
Editorial Board ——————————— Monique O. Madan Editor-in-Chief
Alexandra de Armas North Campus Bureau Chief Gregory Castillo Kendall Campus Bureau Chief
Political Incompetency, failing schools and a crumbling infrastructure have left Haiti in a state of chaos since a massive earthquake devastated the island nation.
By Molyvenson Louis molyvenson.louis001@mymdc.net SINCE the January 12, 2010 earthquake that killed more than 300,000 people in Haiti, the country has been going through the roughest situation its people have faced in decades.
VOX POPULI
Now it’s up to the political leaders to think of ways to rebuild the island. Are they capable of handling responsibility of such enormity? Should there be more involvement from the population? Hospitals, schools, shelters, and nutrition certainly should be the main priorities in Haiti. Organizations currently working to help with these immediate needs are doing their best. It is very good to see the international community willing to help. However, what is disappointing is the absence of government involvement in the efforts to help recover from the natural disaster; government left the rescues to be done by foreign forces sent to help. It is unfair. We can’t have the country as an exclusive area for organizations to run everything that is considered public services. This isn’t the first
symptom of incapability to complete required tasks by the Haitian government. Another example is the school system that started failing at the beginning of this century, with 85% of educational institutions being run privately. Elementary, middle and high schools have not been free in Haiti—as promised by the constitution of 1987—because of lack of public schools. A multitude of expensive private schools have emerged throughout the country, forcing kids to pay for their education. Those that are not expensive aren’t well maintained. They have small classes and incompetent teachers. Your ability to speak, and write French alone can qualify you to be a teacher in one of those establishments. The government of Haiti has failed to assure a basic education for the youth. By
doing so, they are failing to assure the future of a whole nation. Rebuilding Haiti will take more than individual work from elected leaders, but the Haitian population needs to know that their politicians are doing their job. Individuals must vote according to what plans candidates have to offer, instead of basing votes on their character and affiliations alone. The needs of the people are to be put first; policies being presented by candidates should benefit the whole country instead of one group of people. Haitians also need to start taking interest in the politics of the country by questioning those in charge. They can make sure the necessary changes are being made. Politicians have failed too many times. It’s time for politicians to be closely watched. Explanations must be demanded.
Students answer the question: "What do you think is the best step forward in rebuilding Haiti?"—By Reporter Staff
VOICE OF THE PEOPLE
“I think education. The fastest way to get a country started is to start from their foundations and the foundation is education.” Monica Monsalve, 18, international relations, Kendall Campus
“For a small country like Haiti I think they should sectionalize the country and have representatives.” John Guinan, 18, music, Kendall Campus
“First of all we need a good president and right now I’m not sure its going on happen. Haiti needs the funds and someone to take care of the funds.”
“I think the most important things are unity and cooperation” Yoexis Ruiz, 41, accounting, Kendall Campus
Joada Noel, 18, biology, North Campus
Student Voices Find out what MDC students think about the future of Haiti.
Lazaro Gamio Interim Wolfson Campus Bureau Chief Monica Suarez Briefing Editor Mark Pulaski A&E Editor, Interim Forum Editor Hector Gonzalez Sports Editor Anna Carabeo Multimedia Editor
Art Department ——————————— Lazaro Gamio Art Director
Akeem Brunson Multimedia Producer Manuel Palou Deputy Art Director
Issue Staff ——————————— Maloha Acevedo, Melissa Adan, Rafael Brazon Di Fatta, Carolina del Busto, Brittany Esquijerosa, Keith Gonzalez, Yesenia Iglesias, Molyvenson Louis , Roudy Mauricin, Julie McConnell, Jessica Medina, Alexander Perez, Marvin Pineda, Kirsten Rincon, Rachel Rosenberg, Crizalida Suero, Rafael Tur, J.C. Urbina
Manolo Barco Media Adviser B mbarco@mdc.edu T NORTH.........................(305) 237-1255 T KENDALL......................(305) 237-2323 T WOLFSON....................(305) 237-3477
Bureaus ——————————— The Reporter welcomes letters to the editor. All submissions should be 300 words or less and must be typed. Writers must include their full name, contact number, campus, student number, and e-mail address. Faculty and staff should include the title, department, and extension. All letters are subject to editing for purposes of brevity and clarity. Letters can be sent via e-mail to mdc.thereporter@gmail.com, with the subject “letter to the editor.”
Advertising ——————————— Gregory Torrales Advertising Manager B gregoryj.torrales001@mymdc.net T (786) 237-8414
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