Weekend Scene 10-13-11

Page 1

?-;<-:6 0-:)4, +75

???

THE WEEKEND SCENE [10.13.11] [VOL.96 ISSUE 11]

CANCER SU

THE W

PG.3 READ ABOUT BARKING TUNA ON PG.37

CA SU

2

Thursday, October 13, 2011

ArtPrize competition reaches end By Alyssa trager Staff Reporter

The third annual ArtPrize competition concluded its final weekend on Oct. 9. The event was made up of 192 venues, which showcased the works of 1,713 artists and encompassed three square miles of downtown Grand Rapids for three weeks. The event mixes aspects of an arts festival, a social experiment, part civic project and brings hundreds and thousands of visi-

Eileen Meslar / Western Herald

tors to Grand Rapids The winner of the event is chosen strictly by the audience. The exhibition is extremely diverse and is located in dozens of venues around the city including museums, parks, businesses, and warehouses. Any property owned in Grand Rapids can be used as a venue; all venues choose their featured artist or artists. ArtPrize gives away the largest cash prize for any art exhibition, the winner will receive $250,000 in addition to $484,000 that will be distributed among the top 10 finalists. This year’s big money prize goes to Mia Tavonatti for her stained glass mosaic titled “Crucifixion.” The work is 9 feet by 13 feet and took over 2,500 hours to make. “I created this design by photographing my model in the

woods of Santa Cruz, California, tied to a huge cross made of Home Depot beams and wearing a crown of thorns crafted from a Michael’s wreath,” Tavonatti said. “By layering this imagery with two sunsets I photographed in Italy and Hawaii, I was able to compose the powerful light sources so relevant to this and all of my work.” Second place goes to Tracy Van Duinen and his public artwork, multi media mosaic mural titled “Metaphorest.” The mural is 88 feet by 40 feet and has not been finished yet. “We will be hosting several workshops for communities around the city for people, young and old, to create a unique element for the inclusion in the mural,” Duinen says. Third place goes to Lynda Cole in her piece titled “Rain.”

“It is a kinetic sculpture using 7,600 squares of silver leaf on polyester film,” Cole said. “The work is comprised of 25 different modules which each move with the ambient air currents of the installation space.” Fourth place goes to an artist named Sunti Pichetchaiyakul who specializes in bronze portraiture and fiberglass resin sculptures. Pichetchaiyakul’s piece titled “President Gerald Ford Visits ArtPrize” is a lifelike representation of former President Gerald Ford looking at a bronze sculpture head of himself. Pichetchaiyakul is a returning contestant for ArtPrize and ranked in the top 25 at the 2010 ArtPrize. Check out the website at artprize.org for more information on the top 10 winners along with artwork and artist bios.

WESTERN HERALD

.COM

1517 Faunce 1903 W. Michigan Avenue Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5365 Phone: (269) 387-2092 Fax: (269) 366-3046

Editor-in-Chief

Nora Strehl 387-2097 editor@westernherald.com

Advertising Manager

Nicole Taylor 387-2107 advertising@westernherald.com

Business Manager

Seena Nair 387-2108 business@westernherald.com

Web Manager

Cody Kimball 387-2092 web@westernherald.com

General Manager and Adviser Brian Abbott 387-2110 brian.abbott@westernherald.com

Board of Directors Faculty Dr. Richard Junger (chairperson) Thomas Swartz Administration Dean Honsberger Vacant Students Vacant Vacant Vacant Vacant Western Herald Staff Shea Werner The Western Herald (USPS 678-420) publishes Mondays and Thursdays during the fall and winter semesters, and Mondays during the Summer I semester, except for examination weeks and vacation periods. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Western Herald, 1517 Faunce, 1903 W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5363.

3

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Kalamazoo �ights breast cancer By Ambrosia Neldon Staff Reporter

In the upcoming weeks, Western Michigan University’s campus, and most of the Kalamazoo community, will become increasingly pink. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and Kalamazoo community members are hard at work showcasing their support. According to the American Cancer Society, an expected 230,480 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer nationwide in 2011, and 39,520 deaths will accompany this statistic. In an attempt to lower these numbers, students and community members are hosting fundrais-

ers and events to raise money for breast cancer research and rehabilitation. On campus, many registered student organizations are preparing events and fundraisers for the month. Colleges Against Cancer is a registered student organization doing a number of fundraisers this month to raise money for breast cancer awareness. “We’ll be handing out Halloween candy with encouraging scriptures about breast cancer on it at the flagpoles this month,” Cesar Carrizales, the president of the organization, said. All 25 members of the organization are carrying jars to their classes to collect spare change for breast cancer research.

“[Students] should know that breast cancer has touched everyone’s life somehow,” Carrizales said. “It takes 2 seconds to help and spread awareness for the cause. By donating just a nickel or something, they can help a lot,” WMU’s Western Student Association (WSA) held a “pink” meeting last week to kick off their fundraiser for breast cancer. “We’re working on having more philanthropy in WSA and we wanted to show support to those who have lost loved ones to breast cancer and who are still fighting breast cancer,” Jasmine Neldon, speaker of WSA, said. All of the committees in WSA are competing against each other

in a penny war. The proceeds will be donated to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation. This Saturday, the Kalamazoo chapter of the American Cancer Society is hosting a Making Strides against Breast Cancer walk. The walk begins at 9 a.m. at Arcadia Commons in downtown Kalamazoo. “There will be live music and lots of different things going on sponsored by the community,” Carrizales said. “We’ll be there showing our support.” In Grand Rapids, the American Cancer Society is hosting Bras Across the Grand to celebrate survivors of breast cancer and spread awareness for those fighting it.

“For a $5 donation, residents can decorate a bra to be displayed in the chain of hope along the Grand River’s Gillette Pedestrian Bridge, serving as a visual reminder of those who are fighting the disease and those who have lost their battle,” Evelyn Barella, media relations specialist for the American Cancer Society in Grand Rapids, said. The event takes place from 9 a.m. to noon at the Gillette Pedestrian Bridge near Ah-NabAwen Park in Grand Rapids on Sept. 22. Other events being held on campus and in the community can be found on the WMU events calendar at www.wmich.edu.

WMU vs. CMU: the bloody rivalry continues By Dan Proczko Staff Reporter

The WMU v. CMU rivalry football game may have passed, and for many that’s the end-allbe-all. For the American Red Cross, the rivalry is another opportunity to motivate students and faculty to donate blood. The WMU-CMU American Red Cross Blood Challenge kicked off on Monday and runs through the Friday, Oct. 21. “The challenge has been going on for at least 10 years,” says J.P. Lanning, Donor Recruitment Representative with the American Red Cross Goals for western is 600 pints and Central is 450 pints. “We have been a part of the Blood drive for the last 4-5 years,“ said Sam Barajas, board member of the WMU Health Professionals Society, “I know from experience the benefits of donating and wanted to give back.” As of 7 p.m. on Tuesday, the tally had WMU at 65 pints and CMU with 76 pints, but yesterday Western recieved 50-55 pints.

Blood drive dates and loca- and in good general health. The tions for the remainder of the American Red Cross also encourweek include: ages a diet high in iron and fluids Thursday, Oct. 13, 11 a.m. to 5 prior to donating. For more elip.m., College of Engineering gibility requirements please call and Applied Sciences Build- (877) 835-5736. To make an appointment go to ing (Parkview Campus). redcrossblood.org. Friday, Oct. 14, 11 a.m. to 5 You can follow the challenge p.m., Student Recreation results on twitter via wmuvscCenter. mublood and on the WMU vs Monday, Oct. 17, 11 a.m. to 5 CMU Blood Challenge facebook page. p.m., Miller Auditorium. Tuesday, Oct. 18, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Schneider Hall. Wednesday, Oct. 19, 1 to 7 p.m., Bernhard Center. Thursday, Oct. 20, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Health and Human Services Building (Oakland Drive Campus). Friday, Oct. 21, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Davis Hall. “Anyone that even tries to donate, is entered into a raffle for a 26” flat screen TV, a 10” Google tablet, $20 Best Buy gift cards and 1 Meijer $250 gift certificate, and anyone who tries to donate also gets a t-shirt,” adds J.P. Lanning. To be eligible, donors must be at least 17 years old, 110 pounds

Kallie Strazdas / Western Herald

Andrew Kincaid holds hands with girlfriend Christy Singleton while having his blood drawn on Monday, Oct. 10.

Kallie Strazdas / Western Herald

WMU sophomore Adam Berland gives blood on Monday, Oct. 10. “Did you know that humans have 8 different blood types and cows have 800?!” said Berland.

4

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Union pairs WMU with jazz, blues and food By Erin Lenczycki Staff Reporter

Tables slide together as friends laugh and order another round of drinks. A few glace between the new addition’s faces and question if sharing the lobster fondue with the rest of the table is a sacrifice they are willing to take. There is undeniable electricity in the air, which reverberates through the restaurant and energizes it simultaneously. It is as if the air itself, laced with the sultry music emitting from the stage, is whispering in your ear to forget your shyness and laugh a little louder, if only for the night. “The first time I went was around Halloween,” transfer student Carrie Brannen said. “I went in and a western combo was playing. I have no idea who any of them were, but it was good. We just sat in the air chairs around the stage and just listened.” The Union, which was sprung from a desire to link Western with downtown Kalamazoo, was created in 2001. The idea came from a previous president, Elson Floyd.

Floyd recognized Western’s School of Music was one of the best in the country and has a jazz studies program that continues to turn out great musicians year after year. “We thought how do we bring something into the downtown area to help develop downtown and that way we could help do that and do it in such a way to help promote Western a little bit more,” Millennium group partner Bob Lewis said. “That’s kind of the nuts and bolts about how the whole thing came down.” The Union was build around an idea and quickly became a reality, constructing a restaurant around the idea of a jazz club students can hang out in. Some, however, had doubts in the beginning. “I was overseeing the operations at the time and they said ‘it was going to be a jazz club’ and I’m thinking it’s going to be like elevator jazz, can’t we do blues or something a bit more upbeat,” Lewis said. “I tell you, that whole mentality on my part was so quickly put to rest.” Almost overnight The Union became a success. Shows from

SFJAZZ Collective

Friday, October 21 · 8 PM · Dalton Center Recital Hall This all-star ensemble, comprising eight of the finest musicians at work in jazz today, pays tribute to the incomparable pop icon Stevie Wonder. GENERAL ADMISSION Students with ID: $15 in advance | $5 at the door SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY

FONTANACHAMBERARTS.ORG 269/382-7774 With support from NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS and MICHIGAN COUNCIL FOR ARTS AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS

students, faculty and professionals in the area to teach master classes at Western soon found their way onto the stage. “The idea was to bring it to the people and put something downtown. The logo above the stage is not just decoration. It’s for real,” Tom Knific, the jazz studies coordinator said. Knific soon realized this relationship was something truly unheard of in the academic world. “It’s something visionary,” Knific said. “The fact that you can’t name another arrangement like this automatically tells you that it’s a very special thing that a university president and Ken Miller would just kind of dream this up and make it happen. There’s a synergy between civic and university leaders that’s enviable.” Lewis and Knific both said they believe Western is a major reason downtown has flourished, providing it with life and business. “We moved here over 20 years ago and it’s like a different city downtown. It’s like they’ve recreated it,” Knific said. “I like to think that the Union is a definite anchor in terms of the vibe.” The music has catapulted downtown and the students who play at The Union into the spotlight. Sean Hammontree, a senior, has played on the Union’s stage at least 15 times and thinks it’s a great addition to the school’s lure. “A lot of students have played here and it’s given them a chance to further their artistic career.” Hammontree said. William Killian, a senior and performance major, says it is not only a good way for parents to see their child play more often but for students to support their peers. “I like that I usually know at least one person on stage,” Killian said. “It’s good food and good beer. And for the under 21 kids it’s a great aesthetic.” Lewis has enjoyed watching the students grow up on stage

and come back as accomplished alumni. “Once we get those students in they start perpetuating other students in the group,” Lewis said. “It’s been an awesome family down here, and I think family is just the word for it just because it is such a great collaboration and they have the utmost respect for us as restaurateurs.” Knific has even been incorporating The Union in his recruitment pitches, just like a football coach, Knific shows off his stadium. “For me Kalamazoo’s a small city but the wealth of the talent because of the university and the students that hang around is remarkable,” Knific said. “I mean you’d be hard pressed to find a city of that demographic. We put on over 100 nights of entertainment a year, that’s over 300 sets of music.” Kalamazoo has always been a hotbed for blues and music, even housing one of the first Gibson guitar factories. It is no wonder the tradition lives on through the school, although jazz seems widely misunderstood. “A lot of people think they don’t like jazz, but they don’t really know what it is and they turn out to be fans. And that’s a very special thing.” Knific said. The Union often converts people to jazz and blues lovers and students and faculty alike jump at the chance to educate their listeners. Which is why Jazz It Up! With Fontana music will be educating and entertaining patrons this weekend. Fontana, which is known for producing concerts, is attempting to get people in the community used to going out and listening to jazz music. The Union is merely their launching pad. “I think it pulls you in to want to learn more because these people just get up there and improve. I think it’s a good way to launch an interest in jazz.” Brannen said. The menu at The Union, which Lewis considers to be American cuisine with a twist, continues

to tempt students and residents alike. “We’ve always wanted to be very receptive to the students. We didn’t want to be a jazz club that college kids couldn’t afford,” Lewis said. “If you look at our lunch menu and even our dinner menu we keep sandwiches on there, we keep burgers on there. We want college kids to come in too, it’s as much their place, and hence The Union you know like college union.” The restaurant, which has college night every Tuesday, offers $5 burgers all day Tuesday that includes every single burger on the menu, and has happy hour every Monday through Friday. Another benefit most students don’t know about is that every time they have their school ID they get 15 percent off all food all day and every day. The Union offers a classy alternative, although Knific doesn’t think enough students know about it. “I don’t feel like enough Western students realize that it’s their club. That’s the first thing I tell them,” Knific said. “I would encourage the to go because it’s really cool and they can listen to some of their own peers at the Union.” As soon as you walk into the doors on a Tuesday night you’ll easily be able to tell why so many can’t stop coming back. “If you come downtown on a weekend and can’t find something to do that makes you happy you’re just not looking. And you don’t even have to look hard.” Lewis said. As students begin to ask for their bills and the performers on stage ease into their closing number one cannot help but feel as though the night has been an experience. And so with a heavy stomach and a head, dizzy from the night’s music and laughter, the patrons slowly trickle out into the crisp night air, only to return again and be part of another night’s follies.

Thursday, October 13, 2011

OUTspoken celebrates coming out By Dan Proczko Staff Reporter

Today marks the end of Coming Out Week, during which student organization Outspoken was at the heart of the week’s events. “Coming Out Week is a national event to raise awareness and give credit to the hardships of coming out. It’s truly about the

struggle many students have to go through,” Matt Vargo, Outspoken president, said. On campus, Coming Out Week started with a cupcake giveaway, where individuals could decorate their cupcakes. Tuesday marked the official Coming Out Day. Outspoken was at the flagpoles with symbolic doors, asking those supportive of

the LGBT community to sign the doors. The doors are put on display in their offices in the Student Organization Center. On Wednesday, Outspoken and WSA partnered for a Western Wednesday and camp out at the flagpoles. During the camp out members will be accepting donations for the Trevor Project (trevorproject.org), a national or-

ganization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth. Outspoken will be holding a Pride Prom in November and is looking to increase its activism on campus. The organization boasts having over 280 people attend its meetings this year alone.

5

“We’re not just an organization for LGBT. We’re an organization for anyone who is accepting and wants to support the LGBT community,” Erica Whitaker, Outspoken Special Events Coordinator, said. Outspoken holds weekly meetings on Wednesday at 9 p.m. in room 210 of the Bernhard Center.

Photos Trevor Ritsema / Western Herald

Above: A group of students gather around OutSpoken’s table to sign their names on two closet doors, to show support for National Coming Out Week on, Tuesday, Oct. 11.

Trevor Ritsema / Western Herald

Chelsea Hammink, WMU sophomore, signs a closet doors to support National Coming Out Week on WMU’s campus on Tuesday, Oct. 11.

Left: WMU sophomore, Andrew Trevarrow, member of OutSpoken, stands in front of one of the closet doors on Tuesday, Oct. 11.

WMU athletes dedicate time to volunteering By N����� P�������� Staff Reporter A volunteer is a person who does a service without pay. For Western Michigan University Athletes, the struggle of being both an athlete and a student is stressful enough: classes, practice, and the expectations of a university when performing their specific sport. Yet, these Broncos are willing to give up the time to volunteer in their community. Throughout the season, WMU athletes are required to volunteer according to guidelines set by the coaches of that individual sport. Bill Cubit, head football coach

at Western Michigan made it an emphasis with his players being a part of the community. “From the time the studentathletes are recruited and finally end up here, they hear about what is expected of them in regards to community service and being involved with the Kalamazoo/Portage area,” said Cubit. With these athletes still being just college students, coaches are mindful of not taking too much time out of the student-athletes life to get his academic work done. “We leave it up to the coaches to set a limit on the hours.” Kathy Beauregard, the Director of Athletics at WMU, said. “We have

to be careful on how much the athletes get bogged down, and we want them to live the regular college life too.” Recently the Western Michigan men’s and women’s basketball teams had a “Walk Kids to School Day.” Players from both teams took the hand of a young elementary student in the Kalamazoo area and walked them to school. Meanwhile, the football team over the course of the season has partnered up with United Way to do community activities such as the Big Brothers, Big Sisters program. “It’s inspiring to young children who look at these players as role models, not only on the field

but in the community as well,” Beauregard said. One of the involved teams in the volunteering community is the football team. The team managed to gain over 6,000 volunteer hours. “Each player at the least has to do 5 hours of community service,” said Timothy Knox, director of football operations. At he last football game against Bowling Green University, the Broncos were showing off pink in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The hockey team has a breast cancer awareness night and players wear pink jerseys. Other teams such as the volleyball team, organizes after every

home game an autograph session open to anybody. The NCAA doesn not mandate that universities have to volunteer, but most universities encourage it. “The NCAA doesn’t mandate but defiantly encourages, and so do we here at WMU.” said Beauregard. It is not just the big organizations making the call for athletes; the student-run organizations here on campus are doing it as well. “The athletes can academically give back not only to the community but to their college and student body organizations,” Beauregard said.

6

Thursday, October 13, 2011

rave'()*(+!"#$%&'( CITYPLACE 14

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

0(#12#(.,13$4&/15%&+)/610*&4718#*,/"18(4410#&&19:;<<:<=;:=><< "$ I) 0 ( &--?(@- <( ,< $ ?; N !(=O)B$;/(R%&;&)I)%.(*(H-(6;00)0(-<(L$0B-G%.("$S T( L$ &$.; / ( 6 <-U ) B .$ -%

!!!"#$%&'()*(+,*-).#&/"-('

Check us out online at www.westernherald.com

Broncos vs Huskies away By Chris Willis Staff Reporter

One is a fluke, two is a trend, three is a streak. The Western Michigan University football team will go on the road this Saturday with a chance to come away with a three-game winning streak for the first time since the final game of the 2010 season. The Broncos’ (4-2, 2-0 MAC) quest to achieve their third MidAmerican Conference Championship will face an important West Division test this week as they face the Northern Illinois University Huskies. WMU leads the all-time series with NIU, 23-13, but the Huskies (3-3, 1-1 MAC) have had WMU’s number in recent years and the Broncos haven’t won in Dekalb since 2007. “It’s a tough place to play [speaking of NIU],� Bill Cubit, WMU head coach, said. “I think they’ve won 12 in a row there. It’s going to be a great challenge for the kids to go in there and get a

win.� Last week, the Broncos’ running game exploded for 351 yards which propelled them to a 45-21 victory over the MAC East leading Bowling Green State University Falcons. It was the first time WMU rushed for 300-plus yards since 1995 when they put up 318 against Western Illinois. Northern Illinois is one of the two games that decided the 2010 season for the Broncos. Last season, the Huskies stole a victory at Waldo Stadium, 28-21, forcing WMU quarterback Alex Carder into a red-zone interception on a would-be game tying drive. Carder was hit from behind, and the Huskies made an interception. NIU eventually earned the MAC West title, and a spot in the MAC Championship game. NIU took a knee and WMU’s season went down the drain five days later at CMU. “If it wasn’t for a couple of missed plays, that thing probably goes into overtime,� Cubit said. “The respect for Northern Illinois

is there. You can’t take the pedal off the metal in this one. Every single play you have to play well in this one.� The Broncos have scored at least 38 points in each of the four WMU victories this season, but they are averaging only 15 points-per-game in the two losses against a pair of undefeated, top 20 ranked Big Ten schools. Senior receiver Jordan White was named MAC West Offensive player of the week for the third time this season for his 12 catches and two touchdown performance at the homecoming game last week at Waldo Stadium. WMU boasts four consecutive MAC West player of the week awards. White can tie Greg Jennings’ all-time mark if he records a 100-yard game at NIU. Last years’ defeat against NIU seemed to deflate the Broncos in the following weeks, and has not been forgotten. “They’ve definitely had success since I’ve been around and for the past few years,� Mitch

Zajac, WMU linebacker, said. “You look at your schedule and there are those games you mark and this was one of them. Central we marked and this game we marked. In order to win the MAC, we have to be successful against these teams.� NIU has been a thorn in the Broncos’ hoof for the past couple seasons. “In order to be where we wanna be on December 2 [MAC Title Game], we have to take care of each and every game.� Zajac said. “We’re not worried about the last five games and we’ve forgotten about the last six. Everything we’ve got is focused on Northern Illinois.� WMU has a chance to put a strangle hold on the MAC West and continue to set up the November 8 showdown at Toledo that most experts think will decide the MAC West Title. “You cannot let up,� Cubit said. “There is no breather. You’ll get a breather when the season is over.�

The start to the 2012 regular season is still months away for the Western Michigan University softball team. However, that has not stopped members of the team from receiving a very impressive accolade. Six Broncos were named to the National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-America Scholar Athlete team, marking the second consecutive year that WMU has seen six of its players receive the honor. Among those awarded are senior infielder Michelle Bendewald, sophomore catcher Allie Carlson, senior outfielder Jennifer Tschetter, sophomore shortstop Christina Pigozzi, junior outfielder Elisha Handshoe and senior outfielder Courtney Rousseau. According to WMU athletics, the six athletes all have a grade

point average over 3.5, with Rousseau achieving a 4.0 GPA. For WMU softball head coach Kathy Leitke, who is going into her 11th season as Broncos head coach, the honor bestowed upon her athletes is one that is an expected result of the work put in. “There’s no question that the honor is wonderful,� Leitke said. “Our number one concern is education. We’re focused on getting the best performance out of our players. It’s a huge compliment to the individuals and our team.� Bendewald, Handshoe, Rosseau and Tschetter have all received the award before, and make the list of only a handful of players to receive the award consecutively. Leitke said that, while the award is more of a reflection of last year’s team than this year’s team, the recognition will pro-

vide a sort of incentive for firstyear student athletes within the program. “At this point, I think it opens the door to the freshman because it sets a new goal going forward,� Leitke said. Leitke’s Broncos are coming off of a big 2011 campaign in which they won the Mid-American Conference Championship while gaining prominence on the recruiting trail. Leitke said that the award just shows how versatile many of the players on her team are. “It shows that these kids are capable in both areas,� she said. “It shows their hard work ethic, and their ability to balance their schedules. They’re excelling both on and off the field.�

Softball Broncos receive recognition

By Matt Buck Staff Reporter

THE CONFUCIUS INSTITUTE WILL BE HOSTING MULTIPLE SESSION OF ITS CHINESE CULTURE CLASSES BEGINNING OCTOBER 31ST. REGISTRATION FOR SESSION 2 OF THE CHINESE CULTURE CLASSES WILL BEGIN ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 17TH

THE CLASSES THAT WILL BE OFFERED DURING THE SECOND SESSION ARE: 3 %&*"-" ,. 3 %&*"-" ++'&*$ 3 %&*"-" /-& 3 , !&.&+* ( %&*"-" "!& &*" " +##", ./&.&+* !&- +/*.- .+ "*&+, &.&2"*- -./!"*.- # /(.1 *! -. ##

www.wmich.edu/confucius.

7

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Living organics at Atrium Gallery By Taylor Larson Staff Reporter Told through the eyes of a delicately painted doll, Kiera Faber’s stop motion animation Living Organics digs deep, bringing us to a place of darkness and intrigue, a place where the mind is fooled by the allure of dark glamour and our perceptions twisted as we are challenged to question what is pure and what is sinful. We may enter this constructed world October 10 through the 26, when Living Organics is presented at WMU’s Atrium Gallery. Shot on a Canon D-SLR, the film is made up of 19,000 individual photographs, shot in single frame animation. When

conceptualizing ideas for the piece, Faber wanted the challenge that came with producing an animated film. “I love designing and creating hybrid characters that exhibit unexpected and expected behaviors,” says Faber. “For me, animation is the perfect medium to explore concepts that are emotionally challenging in an abstract way that requires the viewer to piece together their own interpretive narrative.” Ever present during filming was Faber’s husband, Bill, playing techie as he assisted with lighting and sound design, which the pair constructed either through Foley design or natural sources before syncing to video in Final Cut Pro.

Animation was not always Faber’s passion. Studying more conventional artistic pursuits, Faber focused on drawing, painting and printmaking as an undergraduate before moving on to a Bachelor’s in psychology. While completing a concentration in book arts for her MFA, Faber’s film instructor presented her with the stop motion animations of the Brothers Quay, an influential twin animation duo, and changed the course of her study entirely. Since then, Faber has been busy making a name for herself in the industry, with her films being exhibited nationally and internationally in Greece, Armenia, Brazil, New Zealand, Pennsylvania, Illi-

nois, Nevada, Michigan and New York. Living Organics was recently nominated at the Queens International Film Festival for best domestic animation, while Faber’s first film, Children of God, took first place at the Wonder Women Short Film Competition. Even for one accomplished as Faber, animation is tedious work. Sound design for Living Organics clocked in at about two months, with three months for set construction and another three dedicated to actual shooting. The most time consuming process, however, was the construction of the main character, bird girl. Faber collaborated with doll artist, Jeanne Singer, to construct

the tiny character, which took about six months to match the doll’s appearance with her vision. The completed doll sports a mane of snarled, spiky hair, clear blue eyes, porcelain skin, and a long, black beak. During the film, the character glides from room to room, taking in her surroundings as she is accompanied by muted whispers, giggles, and flashes of buzzing flies and limbs. With such vivid imagery and imaginative casting, Living Organics is not only a foray into the psyche, but an eerily beautiful visual experience that answers the questions we dare not ask, but have always pondered.

McLeod the magician returns to Kalamazoo By Catie Dymond Staff Reporter Becoming a magician is a dream job for many, but for Patrick McLeod, this dream is a reality. Pete will be returning to his hometown, Kalamazoo, for the first time since he was in elementary school to perform at the State Theatre’s upcoming Spooktacular event. “It really means a lot to me to perform at the State Theatre,” McLeod said. “I remember watching movies like Old Yeller there when I was just a

kid. I’m very excited and can’t wait to see some old friends and family.” McLeod attended Mattawan Elementary and Kalamazoo Jr. Academy as a child. He discovered his passion for magic when he was just 10 years old, and asked for a magic set when he lived on Forbes Street. “I was tricked into magic when a man about 25 years ago made a coin disappear and I told him I would like to learn how to do that. I bought a book about coin magic and it became an obsession,” McLeod said.

McLeod graduated from Pacific Unions College in California and received a Master’s degree in counseling. He currently resides in California and has had past experience working at the Spokane Oprah House, the Magic Castle, Anaheim Convention Center, Chrystal Cathedral, cruise ships in Las Vegas, companies, and schools. The Magic Castle is located in downtown Hollywood and is notably known as the “Academy of Magical Arts” where most magicians desire to perform. McLeod works there

on a regular basis. McLeod performed for over 40,000 people in a day at Rick Warren’s Saddleback Church in southern California. The ‘Golden Wand’ award was presented to him for his work in the field. He is one of 50 magicians who have ever won the award. This opportunity to come to Kalamazoo was made possible by Alan Kazam, who asked him to perform when they were both at a conference in Philadelphia. The comedic magician has a song prepared for Spook-

so many of you have gone out of your way to show us your love and support,” according to WIDR’s website. Doors open at the two-day festival on Friday at 7 p.m. All shows run from 8 p.m.-2 a.m. and tickets for each night are $10 in advance and $13 at the door; tickets can be purchased until Friday through Etix.

WIDR’s own DJ diva, DJ Boone will kick-off the event, followed by U.S.S.A., a minimalist, rock, visual band. After them comes Neil Hamburger, “America’s funny man”, according to the website. Next up is Coma Nova, Kalamazoo’s own heavy/ soft metal, pop and experimental band. Last, but not least, is the Bad Indians from Ypsilanti, MI.

Saturday night starts with the first act of night two an electronica battle. Ty Beat Vs. Jaws that Bite Vs. Nuca Duerma will face-off. After the battle comes Kalamazoo-based Self Says, a hip-hop and futuristic band, followed by the French Horn Rebellion, who quotes themselves as a basement dance party. Next up is Mexicans

tacular highlighting his history at Kalamazoo and life in California. “It’s a family show, so there’s not a lot of blood and guts, which Halloween is known for. Most people will be entertained and have a lot of laughs,” McLeod said. The show will be on Oct. 30 at 3 p.m. and feature other guests including Alan Smola, Gordo the magician, and Trino Schincariol. To learn more about Pete McLeod, you can visit www.MagicalSchoolAssemblies.com.

WIDR hosts the 27th Barking Tuna Festival By Alexandra Batson Staff Reporter

This weekend, student-run WIDR FM (89.1) is holding it’s 27th annual Barking Tuna Festival at The Strutt. “Everyone at the station is pumped, not just because we’ve got such rockin’, consummate showmen and women coming to party with us, but because

With Guns, an experimental, club, ghettotech and regional Mexican musician from San Antonio, Texas. The show ends with Orchard Lounge, a club DJ trio with a downtempo, space disco, house, tech, b-boy era electro, hip hop, soul, and funk sound, according to the website.

8

Thursday, October 13, 2011

REVIEW: Local band, exotic album By Baxter Gill Staff Reporter

The underground music scene just got a little more local. On Friday Oct. 7, Small Houses’ tour stopped in Kalamazoo to release their sophomore album “North.” The album was released at The Strutt around 10 p.m., after a live show by their touring partner, Paleo. Small Houses’ sophomore album evolves heir sound more so than it actually revolutionizes it. The folksy guitar work and rhythms are still present, as are the country vocalizations. Listening to it live, the audience might even start to hear

Bruce Springsteen’s voice cutting through the microphone. Additionally, the newer music features increasingly sophisticated rhythms and meaningful lyrics. Fellow artist Paleo describes this combination of folk, country, and classic rock as “Americana.” Watching Small Houses perform helped reiterate the soul their sound instilled on audience members, but more importantly, it helped to showcase how a local band plays during homecoming. Small Houses is known to have strong ties to Kalamazoo but also to The Strutt. Speaking with the band’s

front man, Jeremy Quentin, there was another big reason for debuting at The Strutt. “Well, I live across the street,” Quentin said. “Adam works here. This is our home base.” And what a home base it is. The Strutt’s easygoing attitude and interesting patrons mean that towards the beginning of their set, Small Houses spoke to the crowd, and amongst themselves. Listening to Small Houses play, familiar sounds from different eras and art types all converge for the unique, finger-picked sound that Quentin fronts. When asked where he gets his inspiration for his original songs, Quentin fully

admits his influence. “It’s my love for these artists,” Quentin said. “It’s almost like a thank you card.” He cited Bruce Springsteen, Paul Simon, Bob Dylan and Neil Young, but astute observers can even here some Mumford and Sons and Imaginary Cities. Small Houses makes a great album, and they give an even better live show. Their music has so many influences that it can appeal to almost anyone. If you like Indie folk music, and you also like local music, you should definitely give Small Houses a listen.

Quick Hits Who: Small Houses What: Album release Where: The Strutt Check out: The album

“North” by Small Houses.

SCREAM PARK 44 ACRES OF BLOOD-CURDLING FUN!

NILES HAUNTED HOUSE OPEN WEEKENDS Niles Haunted House

SEP. 16 THRU OCT. 31, 2011 Call us at 269-687-FEAR or visit our website at CALL US AT 269-687-FEAR www.haunted.org OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR for specific dates SPECIFIC DATES ANDandTIMES. times.

Open weekends Sep. 16 thru Oct. 31, 2011 $7.00 off! the purchase price of one

Frightful Nightful combo ticket

Super Spooky Special Visit all 6 attractions!

Free mardi Gras beads!

Limit 1 coupon per customer. Not valid toward other ticket purchases. Void if duplicated. No cash value.

WWW.HAUNTED.ORG

855 Mayflower Rd, Niles, MI Take US 31 to exit 5. Turn west on Niles-Buchanan Rd. Turn south on Mayflower Rd. Watch for signs!

Limit Expires 1 coupon customer. Not valid 11/1/11.per Coupon Code: MI DEALS toward other ticket purchases. Void if duplicated. No cash value. Expires 11/1/11. Coupon Code: HERALD

Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.