By Erin Lucido   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

Roscoe has been the Dean of Students at Central Michigan for 15 years and was more familiar with sitting in meetings, rather than in a booth next to five seniors with a Graduation Bucket List.

On Friday February 26, 2010, Roscoe dove right into completing the challenge of eating 10 bitty burgers in one hour to help us cross that item off our list.  

Seeing the servers walked out with six trays filled with 10 bitty burgers each, it was as if we all had telepathically communicated "um, why are we doing this again?"

The excited and anticipating looks on all of our faces slowly faded as we all realized that this was going to be a lot harder than we thought.

There were a lot of different comments floating through the air like "I feel like throwing up," "Should I be proud that I can eat 10 bitty burgers in an hour or more embarrassed," "I can't do this," "What number are you on," "I got to go unbutton my belt," "There is too much bun," and "My mom is going to be proud of me."

While stuffing bitty burgers in our mouth we all chatted away with the Dean about the graduation ceremony, his 14-year old son (who convinced him to do the challenge), his enjoyment of golfing and how he became the Dean of Students.

After 30 minutes of eating bitty burgers, some of us had completed the challenge and others had only wished that the burgers in front of us had magically disappeared.

At least we all walked away with the memory of doing this "once in a lifetime" Pixie Challenge with the Dean of Students. One item crossed off The Graduation Bucket list, only nine more to go.

 Check out the video and pictures to see who was victorious and who fell a couple bitty burgers short.

By Nicole Burdiss   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

Being flung into Segovia, an ancient labyrinth of history, shortly after landing in Madrid was overwhelming to say the least. Segovia was different than any city I'd ever experienced. Through the bus window, the city welcomed me with its famous castle, the aqueduct, gorgeous plazas, and diverse neighborhoods I'd spend much of my time wandering around throughout my six-week stay.

After a whirlwind of meeting my host mom Julia at the bus station, I was happy to find that we had no problem communicating in Spanish.

At a lull in the conversation, a million different questions started running through my head: where is the school, what was my routine going to be like, will I make friends here?

Julia saw I was getting overwhelmed, and said the words I would repeat constantly through my time in Spain, "No pasa nada, guapa, tranquila," meaning, "relax, no worries," and sent me to my room for siesta.

I got to my bed and took a nap, as I would almost every day for the next six weeks. When I woke up, I felt a wave of tranquility wash over me; I was exactly where I was supposed to be.

Siesta ended up becoming one of my favorite things about Spain. Every day after eating lunch with my new family, I'd go to my room and write in my journal, read my Spanish politics and paintings textbooks, take a nap, or relax in the sun with my friends at the community pool.

After siesta, we'd get tapas or café con leche and enjoy each other's company while practicing our Spanish. Spanish culture taught me to slow down every day to reflect and unwind.

The "no pasa nada" mentality seeped into every aspect of how I lived in Spain. In my free time, I would take walks in the beautiful gardens, explore the Jewish and Arabic neighborhoods, and people-watch while drinking café con leche at outdoor cafes. I made it a point to soak in every drop of Spain that I could.  

My classes had a relaxed vibe as well. In my "Spain's role in the European Union" class, we would frequently go on adventures around town, learning about Segovia's rich cultural history past what was illustrated in the architecture. 

By the end of the program, I couldn't walk down a street without subconsciously naming what era each different kind of wall was from. I couldn't pass a church without the architecture silently telling me a story of its Arabic, Jewish or Catholic past.

Eleana, my Spanish art teacher, was one of my favorite people I met in Spain, and one of the best teachers I have ever had. She showed us around castles and museums and told us amazing stories of her years at art school.

I appreciated Eleana's relaxed nature, passion for life, quirky personality and immense knowledge of Spanish art and history. At the end of the program, Eleana took us to La Reina Sofia and El Prado, two very important art museums in Madrid, to see all of the art we had learned about. I've never been so thrilled in a museum!

Though it was just last summer that I was in Spain, it already feels like a lifetime ago. I lived every moment of my Spanish summer to the fullest, and the memories I have still pull me into Spaniard daydreams. All I have to do is close my eyes and remind myself, "No pasa nada, tranquila" and I'm there.

Photo by Maureen Stephan

By Sherri Keaton   Thu, Mar 04, 2010

Collette Mabingani uses his music as his voice, conveying words that sometimes cannot be uttered. As a South African musician who was exiled to America 18 years ago under political terms, Mabingani gives his music a meaning. Grand Central Magazine reporter sits down with Mabingani to discuss his history, his music and his message:

Grand Central Magazine: What brought you into music?

Collette Mabingini: My brothers were executed by the South African government because they were members of the ANC, The African National Congress, a political group that was fighting against apartheid. And a lot of people that went into the ANC really did not have secure lives; there was much greater danger. For me music was an escape from apartheid, hardships from everyday, music was must a great escape for me and I enjoyed it too. I still enjoy it.

Grand Central: How did you get into music?

CM: I used to be a mischievous, as most 5 year olds were, I used to take sticks from outside and bang them on tables and chairs and any place I could make a sound and take sometimes a fork and spoon and bang them on plates and them my parents got me my own drums and I was just in heaven. I have been playing ever since. I'm 36 years old. I have been playing for 3 decades, 31 years.

Grand Central: What instruments do you play?

CM: The djembe drums, I play the guitar, the piano as well as the bass.

Grand Central: Which one is your favorite instrument?

CM: That is really a tough question because as a composer you know I fall in love with different instruments at different times so I really cannot say that I have a favorite instrument however I do enjoy the djembe, if that gives you a clue, if I'm going to lean either way to you know I might say djembe.

Grand Central: Did you learn the djembe professionally?

CM: Actually that is the only instrument that no one has taught me anything, I've in the community hung around master players for ten years and I learned to play what they were playing and that is how you develop your master skill. And then yes the other instruments I did have formal training.

Grand Central: What is your inspiration for playing?

CM: I think there is always a misconception about Africans in general, I tend to run into this stereotyping that Africans don't know much about technology, music to me it is like I have to clarify that, my inspiration is number one to share. I do believe if we share we have a common understanding from there I think people can get along. Because there is a lot of fighting, people don't understand each other.

Grand Central: How do you fight these biases and stereotypes about Africa and African music?

CM: By being an example myself, by going to school, I have a BA degree working on a MA degree, by performing, I have been fortunate enough here in the movie industry, actually some of my music has been featured in big movies and I have been lucky that way. So that is the only way I can combat that to show how different it is.

Grand Central: How long have you been here because of the apartheid?

CM: Since 1993. So that is exactly 18 years.

Grand Central: How has that changed your cultural shift, has that done anything to you culturally as far as affecting your music?

CM: Absolutely, I think my whole outlook has obviously changed, people grow up and they have different experiences. Even when I talk to my mom she says I sound like a Yankee and I think that also comes across in my music. The music I composed when I was 18 years old in South Africa in 1993 is a lot different than the music I am composing now. There is a little bit more Western music but the core is till South African.

Grand Central. What is African music to you because it is a vast cultural thing, but when you say African can you specify?

CM: When I say African music for me it is basically mostly Zulu music, which is warrior music, the Zulu culture is a warrior culture. So Zulu rhythms are a bit more aggressive say than the Sotho people. The Sotho people their music tends to be bit mellower. Kind of like the difference between heavy metal and soft rock.

Grand Central: What ethnic group are you from?

CM: My dad is Zulu my mom is Sotho. Where I come from I am technically considered Sotho because you have to go according to your mother's line not your father's. But when I am here everyone considers me to be a Zulu it is actually the language that I speak the most, Zulu. I play Zulu.

Grand Central: You toured with that group and also formed your own group what has those experiences taught you?

CM: It is called Collette Mabingani and the Positive Vibes. With Azuma it was a learning experience because when we all first came here we did not know anyone here, we did not have any family and when you go to a new place and are all alone it can be harder but when you have friends it can be much easier. So that and also after I got settled with that I also wanted to branch out as my own person and getting my own musicians to do exactly the type of music that I wanted to do personally was a little bit challenging but it was very fruitful and worth it.
I have been playing with my group since 1998. So a little over 10 years. It is world music, a fusion of music from different parts of the world.

Grand Central: After graduation what will you do?

CM: I am going for a doctorate, my eventual goal is to teach full time at a university and continue to perform. This is my last semester so in May I graduate. Masters in Music Composition.

Grand Central: Does music transcend cultures and languages are is it in a box?

CM: That is the neat thing about world music because you cannot put it into a box. Every piece is ever so different and I do believe that music is a language unlike the written language and the language that we speak. It is more of a soul language, we might not speak the exact same language but if we are both musicians and we pick up our instruments w can make something out of that without communicating with words.

Grand Central: How does your culture influence your musical voice?

CM: That has not changed because when I compose I start from the djembe that is my first inspiration when I compose and from there I might add different rhythms but is always going to be African as a core. I have not strayed away from my roots in those terms, the reason why I play world music I like to have them identify with something so if they are western they can identify with something western.

Grand Central: Has the South African apartheid influence your music politically?

CM: I would have to say yes because even when I compose music with words I ‘ve never had the luxury or right now I don't feel like I have the time to sing or writer about ‘oh baby I love you' I always find that really there is so much more important anything I have to say. I might get there at some point I mean I'm not saying there is anything wrong with that, but I am not there yet. I usually write about my apartheid experiences even in today's world even here in America there are still things that are not right as far as race relations we need to change that and when I go to elementary schools and high schools and give presentations in different classes when I talk about the apartheid I want people to learn that this is not like a tree hugging philosophy but I want people to learn that we can get along so much better if we know each other and respect each other and that is why I share the apartheid experience.

Grand Central: What happened during the apartheid to you?

CM: I had two brothers and I still have two sisters thankfully and my mom and dad. We were a pretty big family of five.

Grand Central: Have you talked about those experiences through your music?

CM: That I have stayed away from. I think when it comes to personal things like that I keep them out of my music because the experience without my personal experience and I think I'd rather right about other things than my own family. Maybe at some point I would get to it.

Grand Central: What do you think about American music?

CM: American music is interesting to me when I think of American music I think about jazz, one of the first things that come to mind and the Native American music. There are other genres such as rock but we can traces the roots of rock with the African music when slaves were brought here and from that music to blues and from blues to jazz from jazz to rock and roll from that to heavy metal and we can trace that and from classical music we know that is from European music and I love American music I have used it in my own music it is now a part of me I am an American. I got my citizenship so embrace everything about this country, there is no country that is perfect and I am here because I can live how I want to live.

Grand Central: How does living how you want to live mean to you?

CM: To me freedom is not something someone tells you. It might not be the freedom you want. To me freedom is how I want to live and it doesn't mean I can do anything I want to, that means play any type of music that I want discuss any type of music that I want talk about any topic without fear of the government discouraging me. I think most Americans take a lot of things for granted and things are a bit diff. with economy, known throughout the world that Americans take things for granted because things come easy, be grateful for what they have.

Grand Central: Do you sometimes relate more to African American music?

CM: That is a tough one, to be honest it didn't matter if I was in America or Europe, I really don't draw from much from anyone other than African music. And I like Stevie ender's music I've worked with him. Smokie Robinson, the old guys, when people were actually singing they didn't have too much machinery to make t things sound sweet. A lot of great African American artists out here we are all doing the same things.

By R.E. Whipple   Thu, Mar 04, 2010

Creamy Roasted Garlic Soup

• 2 cups vegetable broth
  
• 1 cup water
• ½ diced carrots
• ½ diced celery
• ½ diced, peeled potatoes
• ¼ cup roasted garlic cloves, removed from skin
• ¼ cup heavy cream, optional
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper, to taste

1. In a 2-quart saucepan, bring the broth and water to a boil over high heat. Add the carrots, celery and potatoes. Return to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, 25 minutes or until vegetables are very tender
2. Place the soup and the garlic in a blender or food processor container fitted with a steel blade. Cover and process until smooth. Add the cream and pepper. Reheat if necessary.

By John Schneider   Thu, Mar 04, 2010

Jerry West's basketball career is filled with so many highlights it is difficult to decide which is most noteworthy.

I guess it depends on the generation.

Older fans may remember West as the poor kid from Cheylan W. Va., the gangly guard who entered the University of West Virginia as a scrawny kid and left four years later as one of the greatest college basketball players of all-time.

Others probably recall West as a 14-time All-Star for the Los Angeles Lakers during the 1960's and into the 70's.

If you ask your parents about West, they will most likely explain that he was the mastermind behind the "Showtime" Lakers of the 1980's, featuring Magic, Kareem and James Worthy, that rolled to five NBA championships during the decade.

Perhaps he is better known for pairing Kobe Bryant with Shaquille O'Neal in 1996, a duo that led the Lakers to three consecutive championships from 1998-2000.

Even non-basketball fans are probably familiar Jerry West, or at least his likeness. It is West's silhouette that graces the current NBA logo.

Born in 1938, West was a three-time all-stater at East Bank High School in East Bank, W. Va. In 1956 he accepted a scholarship to West Virginia where he was a two-time All-American. In 1959 West led the Mountaineers to the NCAA National Championship Game. West Virginia lost to champion California but West was named the Final Four's Most Outstanding Player.

1960 was a banner year for West. He was named to his second NCAA All-American team and was selected with the second pick of the NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers, which had just moved to L.A. from Minneapolis. West would be a key part of the Lakers organization for the next 40-plus years.

Later in 1960 West and his hoopster teammates won the gold medal at the Rome Olympic Games.

West was an All-Star in 14 of his 15 seasons as a member of the Lakers, the only team he played for. He paired with center Elgin Baylor to form the famous "Mr. Inside, Mr. Outside" tandem that led the Lakers to nine NBA title games during his career. Unfortunately, Red Auerbach's dominating Celtics teams of the 60's prevented the Lakers from capturing a championship, beating L.A. six times from 1962-1969. But West and the Lakers finally broke through with a championship in 1972.

West retired after the 1974 season with 25,192 career points which at the time was the third-highest total in history. Currently he is ranked 15^th on the all-time list, having recently been passed by Kobe Bryant - one of the players he brought to Los Angeles. West was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 1980 and was voted one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1997.

In 1976 West was named coach of the Lakers, a position he held until 1979. Three years later he was hired as the Lakers general manager and helped build a team that was partially responsible for the NBA's boom in popularity during the 1980's.

L.A. won five NBA titles in the 80's and lost in the Finals on three other occasions. The Lakers vs. Celtics, and more importantly to the NBA, the Magic/Larry Bird matchups led to skyrocketing ratings for the fledgling League.

In 1996, West traded for Bryant, a rookie who had been drafted straight out of high school, and signed free-agent O'Neal and the Lakers were a dynasty once again. Kobe and Shaq formed a new version of "Mr. Inside, Mr. Outside" as the Lakers rolled to a three-peat from 1999-2000.

West resigned as L.A. General Manager in the summer of 2002 and took the same job for the Memphis Grizzlies. He was a member of the Grizzlies, winning his second NBA Executive of the Year along the way, until he retired after the 2007 season.

Photo by jgrove

By Jordan Spence   Wed, Mar 03, 2010

When shopping in Chicago, staying off of The Magnificent Mile not only saves money; but it also provides a more unique shopping experience.

Although it's fun to visit the elegant, flashy stores on The Magnificent Mile, also known as Michigan Avenue, it may not be the brightest decision to drop $600 on a pair of Jimmy Choos when you are on a budget. 

But there is good news: Michigan Avenue has more to offer than the ridiculously overpriced designer shops, such as H &M, J. Crew and Banana Republic. And the best part of it all is that these stores can be found right here in Michigan.

So in order to build an electric, personal wardrobe on a budget, I went to Milwaukee Avenue in Wicker Park.

The first store I went to while in Chicago over the weekend was a shoe store called John Fluevog.  This store had a very unique point of view with both men and women's shoes.

The shoes were designed with a Victorian, vintage style, yet managed to be wearable and current. 

The prices weren't too high for brand new, quality leather shoes- ranging from $115 for sandals, flats and some heels to $230 for boots.  If you want to splurge in Wicker Park, this is the place to do it.

Afterwards I went to the consignment shops Crossroads and Buffalo Exchange.  Crossroads is smaller, but has a good selection of many styles and colors.

Unfortunately because it is such a small store and is so busy, it was somewhat hard to shop in.

Just down the road at The Buffalo Exchange, you will discover a larger variety of clothing styles in a funkier setting.  Both stores carry a great selection of vintage designer clothes at respectable prices, such as a Diane Von Furstenburg wrap dress for $42.

The prices at both stores were around $11 to $30 for most everything, except the designer items, which ranged from $42 to $75.  Even though the clothes are vintage and previously worn, everything was in great condition and most of the time they looked brand-new. 

Wicker Park isn't limited to vintage and consignment shops, the boutique Pitaya had feminine clothes, appropriate for a date or night out.  The prices weren't much higher than that of the vintage stores, ranging from $15 to $50.  

When shopping in Chicago, be sure to keep in mind the 10.25 percent sales tax. Items may seem cheap at first, but be mindful of that extra sales tax that'll bump up your total at checkout. 

Because of all the great pieces at great prices, it makes it hard to turn down any item. Even though the clothes are more inexpensive, it is very easy to go overboard.

So the next time you're in Chicago, try shopping off the beaten path.  There are so many unique shops to be discovered to open your eyes to new stores, new style and new experiences.

By Sherri Keaton   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

Detroit junior Andrew Hawkes was one of many student artists whose work was featured in the 2010 Annual Juried Student Art Exhibition at Central Michigan University's Main Gallery. GCM photos by Ashante Thomas

Midland senior Allise Noble won the Grand Award for the 2010 Annual Juried Central Michigan University Student Art exhibition for her piece called "Underneath." 

"I was trying to show that dreams or ambitions are just as valuable as any other," Noble said. "(This) shows diversity of the human thought. Dreams and ambitions that are deeper ones are usually unshared and that can say a lot about a person, we should embrace uniqueness."

"Robot African" will be on display until March 27, 2010, in Central Michigan University's Main Art Gallery.

About 120 attendees went to CMU's Art Gallery: Main Gallery on Feb. 27 to view 53 student exhibits.

Art Gallery Director Anne Gochenour said the exhibition is always a big hit. 

"A lot of different artists are in the show and students will come for friends. We have been doing this annually for at least for ten years," Gochenour said. 

She said there has been a great interest in art since the beginning of civilization; art has been the medium of speaking.

"Art is a means of communication and self-expression. It could be considered one of the oldest forms of communication beginning of a language," she said.

There were five categories students work could be selected to win: honorable mention, merit award, purchase award, juror award and grand award.

Vicki Wright of the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts and Ty Smith, a professional designer from Midland, sat in on the selection process as the two jurors.

Remus senior Kathleen Krueger won a purchase award for Residence Life and Honorable Mention.

"I feel very honored, honored just to be in here and part of the show, there are so many talented artists," she said.

One of her exhibits features two side-by-side pictures of CMU's Park Library in the spring and early winter.

Krueger said it is reaffirming to hear somebody liked her artwork.

The 2010 Annual Juried Student Art Exhibition included handmade plush art like "Wolves in Wolf Clothing" from East Lansing junior Cassie McCarthy.

Jesko said seven is an important number.

"The seven words are seven rules that you don't want to happen to you when out in wilderness and if you end up feeling any seven at any time they can lead to death," she said. "Nature is a never-ending cycle.

Detroit junior Andrew Hawkes won the Public Choice Award for his piece called "Secret" where replicas of leaves hung on a string from a mobile-styled design.

"I did it during the fall of 2009. I wanted to extract leaves so they could hold something and no longer just be a leaf," Hawkes said. "I took a walk with my boyfriend and we both picked leaves off the trees and I wanted to encapsulate it so it can be anyone's memory. It can be spoken through anybody. That is what I was going for."

By Ryan Karolak   Thu, Mar 04, 2010

By Josh Berenter   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

Recent Michigan graduate Brandon Graham attempts to bring down Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor.

The Big Ten conference has remained intact, besides Penn State joining in 1989, since 1950. But conference officials are in discussions about allowing four teams from the Big East, and one from the Big 12 to join the Big Ten.

According to a story in the Chicago Tribune, the five schools evaluated by the firm William Blair & Company were Pittsburgh, Notre Dame, Missouri, Syracuse and Rutgers.

The Tribune said the Chicago-based firm looked at whether the addition would generate enough revenue to make expansion worthwhile.

This expansion cannot and will not happen. It would be pointless.

I had been a proponent of the conference adding one team so there can be two divisions of six, in order to have a conference championship game in football. But adding five schools would be worthless. It would be the Big East of the Midwest.

First of all, Notre Dame will never go for it. The Big Ten extended an offer for them to join in football in 1999 and ND vehemently denied, citing their television contract with CBS, and the fact that they can go to a BCS game if they simply win nine games in a season.

Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick, told the Tribune in December that the Irish valued their independence in football, and that "our strong preference is to remain the way we are."

Missouri would be an awful addition to the Big Ten because of traveling. They are in the Big 12 for a reason. No one wants to travel 600 miles for a conference game.

I would not mind adding Syracuse for basketball, but they would be at the bottom of the Big Ten every year in football, and would not help the weak reputation of Big Ten football. The last time SU was relevant, they had five-time pro-bowler Donovan McNabb at QB in the mid '90s.

Excluding a run a couple years ago, Rutgers has not been relevant in anything since before I was born. They would not be a good addition to any sport except for maybe women's basketball where Coach Vivian Stringer can continue to run her mouth.

Pittsburgh is the only team I would be happy with joining the Big Ten. They are at the top of the Big East every year in both major sports, close in proximity to the Big Ten schools and they play the way that most Big Ten teams play; physically on both sides of the ball.

The Big Ten has not been an elite conference for a long time. It has gone without a football national championship since 2003 when Ohio State won, (because of a garbage pass interference call) and a basketball championship since 2000, when Mateen Cleaves led Michigan State to the national title.

Adding four or five, less than amazing schools, just to bring in some more money is wrong, greedy and will ruin the only thing the Big Ten has: tradition

Photo by scott stuart

By Tim Hanson   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

Finally the calendar has turned the page to March and the madness started a little early this year thanks to last weekend's action.  Three teams in the Top Five suffered defeats and Purdue lost one of their star players - Robbie Hummel - for the season. 

The crazy weekend has caused a shake-up in the Top Five and the changes start right at the top. 

1. Syracuse

The Orange returned to the top spot after notching two impressive wins.  First, Syracuse knocked off No. 9 Villanova 95-77 and followed that victory with an 85-66 win over St. John's to secure the Big East title outright.

The win over Villanova propelled Syracuse to the No. 1 spot in both the AP Top 25 and ESPN/USA Today poll.  Forwards Rick Jackson and Arinze Onuaku led a balanced scoring attack with 19 and 17 points respectively.  Six players scored in double figures for the Orange in the game. 

In the win over St. John's, the Orange raced out to a 42-28 halftime lead and did not allow the Red Storm to get back into the game, staying up by at least 10 points the whole second half.  Seniors Onuaku and Andy Rautins, who were playing in their last home game, scored 21 and 14 points respectively.

The Orange will try to avenge an earlier loss when they travel to Louisville for their last regular season game.

2. Kansas

The Jayhawks suffered their first Big 12 Conference loss Saturday on the road at Oklahoma State.  The loss ended a 13-game win streak for Kansas and prevented the Jayhawks from clinching the conference title during the weekend.

On Wednesday night, the Jayhawks rebounded from the road loss and defeated in-state rival Kansas State 82-65.  The win gave Kansas the outright Big 12 regular season championship.  The Jayhawks never trailed in the game and led by as many as 19 points.

In his last home game as a Jayhawk, Sherron Collins poured in 17 points and four assists.  Xavier Henry, a freshman guard, led the team with 19 points in the game.

The Jawhawks end their regular season with a trip to Mizzou Arena, where they will play the Missouri Tigers. 

3. Kentucky

The Wildcats are another team that had a tough weekend when they traveled to Tennessee's Thompson-Boling Arena and left with their second loss of the season.

The Volunteers built a 19-point lead and held on to a 74-65 victory.  Kentucky fought back to tie the game at 65 on a DeMarcus Cousins' dunk, but the Wildcats could not get any closer.  John Wall led the scoring for Kansas netting 19 points in the game.  Cousins added 15 points and 14 rebounds.

Following the Tennessee loss, the Wildcats clinched a share of the SEC regular season championship with an 80-68 win over Georgia.  John Wall exploded for 24 points and dished out six assists.  Patrick Patterson provided frontcourt support chipping in 17 points and 10 rebounds.

The Wildcats return home for their last regular season game on Sunday afternoon against the Florida Gators.

4. Ohio State

The Buckeyes have quietly been one of the hottest teams in the country winning 10 of their last 11 games.  They rose to the top of the Big Ten Conference and clinched at least a tie of the regular season championship.

 The Buckeyes finished their regular season Tuesday night with a 73-57 win at home against Illinois. Junior Jon Diebler hit seven 3-pointers and finished with 21 points to pace the scoring for the Buckeyes. 

Evan Turner notched a double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds.  Also scoring in double figures for the Buckeyes were William Buford and David Lighty adding 17 and 15 points respectively. 

The win was the last regular season game for the Buckeyes.  Next up for Ohio State is the Big Ten Tournament, March 11-14. 

5. New Mexico

Winners of 14 games in a row, the Lobos are making their first appearance in the Top Five.  With their latest win over TCU, New Mexico secured a Mountain West regular season conference championship for the first time in 16 years.

The Lobos pulled away late in a close game and a layup by Roman Martinez followed by a pair of Dairese Gary free-throws sealed the victory 73-66.  For the game, Martinez scored 19 points and Gary added 16.

Darrington Hobson led the team in scoring and rebounding with 20 points and 14 rebounds. 

The Lobos next game is in the upcoming Mountain West tournament, which will decide the automatic bid for the NCAA Tournament.

Photo by daversa

By Doug Sears Jr.   Thu, Mar 04, 2010

United States goaltender Ryan Miller led the upstart Americans to the gold medal game in the 2010 Olympics.

And that is a great thing for hockey in the United States. No longer are the Americans expected to be medal hopefuls, instead they will be medal favorites. There will be no more contentment with second best or second place, no more almost or this close.

The tide has shifted. A gold medal would no longer be a miracle, it's a goal. Russians, Canadians and Swedes are no longer superior, no longer feared. The United States does not hope to beat Finland or the Czech Republic with rabbit's feet and horseshoes any longer. Because it works better when they attack them with a relentless forecheck and a lot of team speed. Young men from Seattle to Atlanta will take a minute in their driveway, where a moment ago they were Dwyane Wade, and start to think that maybe they could be Ryan Miller.

The players and coaches should take a lot away from this game. Team USA head coach  Ron Wilson, ridiculed for playoff failures in San Jose and what has so far been a pathetic season in Toronto, proved he can guide young players to their best hockey, as individuals and as a team. Patrick Kane can be clutch, Zach Parise can outplay Sidney Crosby in six out of seven head-to-head periods and Ryan Miller can dominate.

There has been a lot of talk about the Sochi Olympics in 2014. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman will ultimately make the decision as to whether NHL players compete. There are strong points on both sides.  Bettman's goal from day one on the job, and his legacy, has been to try and spread hockey across the United States. Putting teams in California, Georgia, Carolina and Florida has drawn a lot of criticism and yet Bettman sticks to his dream - that one day boys and girls in Scottsdale, Tallahassee and Austin will want to be on skates.

There is no better way to accomplish this than to send the boys to Sochi, where this very young team will be older, more mature and ready for revenge. We saw in 1999 what patriotism can do for a sport when Brandi Chastain nailed the final penalty kick in Pasadena. She sparked a powder keg for women's soccer, the effects of which are still being seen, as girl's flock to soccer with a passion that the WNBA could never match.

 The U.S. is now just as much a hockey country as Canada, Slovakia, or Russia. Hockey will never compete with football, basketball or baseball, but with 300 million people in the country, there is enough to go around. A recent study showed that in the youth hockey ranks, under age 21, Canada may have less than 50,000 more hockey players than the U.S. does. If those numbers continue to climb, and the U.S. continues to do a superb job of cultivating and developing talent, there is no reason Ryan Kesler cannot return to his family back home in Livonia, Mich. a national hero with gold around his neck. And who knows, maybe one of his teammates takes his gold back to El Paso.

Photo by s.yume

By Jason Shubnell   Wed, Mar 03, 2010

One of basketball's greatest players is hoping to make his mark elsewhere in the NBA.

Earlier this week, a deal was set to be finalized for Michael Jordan to become the controlling majority owner of the Charlotte Bobcats. Do not fear, NBA superstars, he will not be lacing up the Nikes.

As one of the most savvy and marketable businessmen the league has ever seen, Jordan certainly knows what it takes to create a profit. He and his company, MJ Basketball Holdings LLC, will get down to work as soon as they can to build the Bobcats into a competitive draw for the league, despite what he has said in the past.

Just do not expect Jordan to make all the moves on his own.

Jordan was never really comfortable in his role as President of Basketball Operations with the Washington Wizards. His role with the Bobcats, most recently as "Managing Member of Basketball Operations", was hardly anything to talk about. He has rarely been seen at games or practices, ala a contemporary Joe Dumars.

But taking the reins of an NBA team relieves Jordan of the pressure he faced in the past,  allowing him to take a step back and not feel compelled to do it all on his own.

The hiring of Larry Brown, a University of North Carolina man like Jordan, was definitely a start in the right direction.

In his ten years involved with the front office of an NBA team, Jordan has had some pretty ugly moments. Jordan drafted Kwame Brown and Adam Morrison, traded Rip Hamilton for an aging Jerry Stackhouse and more personally, he divorced his wife of 15 years.

Jordan thrived against competition, and played well under pressure. He bitter-sweetly saw his playing career come to an official end in 2009, as he became a member of the NBA Hall of Fame.

Despite popular opinion, Jordan does not want the spotlight on him in Charlotte. He has rarely talked with the media since his final retirement seven years ago. According to ESPN, in a statement released by Jordan in 2007, he doesn't even want his face shown on the video boards.

With this fresh start to his basketball career, it is a time for a rebirth, going back to his roots in Charlotte, N.C. This new venture will show us how Jordan has grown as an executive, scout and as a person.

Michael Jordan cannot possibly rise any higher, or can he?

Photo by wallyg

By Theresa Baughman   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

• 1 part grape juice

  GCM photo by Jillian Pekel

  
  
• 1 part club soda
• Splash of pineapple juice 

Giving up things is hard, especially things you love.  But, alas, sometimes it must be done. For Lent this year, I decided to give up my love affair with alcohol. 

As with anything, I believe baby steps is the way to go.  The first week of Lent, I decided drinking on Sunday would be okay since it is not technically included in Lent (true fact, look it up!).  However, after numerous people told me how half-assed it was to give something up only to be counting down the minutes until midnight Saturday night, I decided to go cold turkey. 

In order to ease my self into this, I have been venturing into the non-alcoholic drink territory; something I have not experimented much with.  My first thought was grape juice, as it is essentially wine (or at least that’s what I’m telling myself).  Adding club soda gives it a satisfying fizz and the splash of pineapple adds a fun, fruity twist. 

This delicious drink can be enjoyed anytime of the day and since it’s alcohol-free, you can enjoy as many as you’d like!

By Jared Leatzow   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

Going to the doctor for an illness tends to be the natural reaction. However, there are many natural cures for common ailments that can be found at the local grocery store. Here are three natural medicines that you can take a bite out of:  

GCM photos by Derek Stonebraker

Pineapple contains an interesting enzyme called bromelain. Bromelain acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and helps to reduce swollen limbs and helps to relieve pain of certain types of arthritis. Therefore, substituting a bottle of ibuprofen for a pineapple might be a tastier and less harmful alternative.            

Bromelain also is shown to help prevent indigestion as well, particularly an upset stomach and heart burn. 

Garlic:  Garlic helps to fight off the common cold and flu and it helps to prevent heart disease and colon cancer.

Doctors at the University of Maryland's Medical Center said, "A well-designed study of nearly 150 people found that garlic helps prevent and treat the common cold".  Garlic also has an interesting affect on blood and is used as a way to prevent atherosclerosis, a common threat in heart disease. In essence, it makes blood less sticky which enables it to pass through arteries easier and prevents build up.

Garlic also has shown to aid in preventing weight loss and intestinal damage caused by chemotherapy.

Alcohol: College students who enjoy embarking on quests to get drunk and party should be wiser in their alcoholic

GCM photos by Derek Stonebraker

Of course all this information is assuming that you are drinking in moderation.            

One type of alcohol most people know to be healthy is red wine, which is good for the heart and has antioxidants. According to the Mayo Clinics Web site, red wine has polyphenols which is believed to help protect the lining of blood vessels. The Web site also said that red wine has reservratrol which "helps prevent damage to blood vessels, reduces "bad" cholesterol and prevents blood clots."            

Beer, strangely enough, is healthy for you according to an article in Forbes Magazine called "Eight Healthy Reasons to Drink Beer." Beer has been shown to help slow aging and boost brain function when done in moderation. Mixed drinks and other forms of hard alcohol should be avoided all together.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this article is to not replace the advice of your physician. All information is assumed that a person is good health with no allergies to the food and is meant to be done in moderation.

By Darrin Livengood   Thu, Mar 04, 2010

Fresh Salad 

-1 bag of favorite lettuce
-1 large chicken breast
-1 large apple
-1 small can of pineapple
-Bacon bits, shredded cheese, and croutons
 
1. Add your lettuce and apple slices to a mixing bowl
2. Cut chicken breasts into small chunks and grill it in a pan.
3. Grill chunked or crushed pineapple with the chicken.
4. Add the chicken and pineapple to the salad. You may add
other extras such as bacon bits, croutons, and cheese.
5. Add your favorite dressing. Enjoy!

GCM image by Darrin Livengood

By Molly Tracy   Thu, Mar 04, 2010

photo by Alaskan Dude

Spring break is here; all those sit-ups and hours spent on the treadmill will finally be worth it.  You've been working hard and sweating hard to get that beach body ready. 

But what's the sense in looking great in a bikini that is out of season?  Looking amazing in the bikini is one thing but having the most rocking bikini on the beach is just icing on the low-fat cake.

Bathing suit trends for this season offer something for beach bunnies.  Every good fashionista knows that even bathing suits offer a place to add your own touch of personal style. 

Bathing suits are going retro this season with vintage, pin-up suits that suggest a flirty 1950s cut.

Think Marilyn Monroe, but with modern prints.

One of the styles in trend for this season is the "monokini".  The monokini certainly isn't a new arrival on the scene but designers have jazzed it up to breathe new life into it. 

For instance, dresses aren't the only thing carrying one shoulder designs this season; the monokini has adopted the look too.  The monokini is also given some edge with funky cutouts and metallic accents.

Designers are also making use of the bandeau top, perfect for avoiding those Spring Break tan lines.  The Bandeau comes in a strapless style or with straps that can usually be removed. 

The bandeau top also is great for girls who are smaller on top.

As for colors, it is all about electric neons, ideal for showing off your tan.  Afraid to go neon? 

Try finding a suit with a small dose of color or use a neutral cover-up to counter balance the brightness.  This trend is definitely not for the wall flowers out there. 

However, if you aren't really a neon girl, there are other colors popping up at the beach.  We saw a lot of jewel tones on the ready-to-wear runway and that has carried over into swimwear. 

Colors like fuchsia, purple and emerald green are a trendy choice.

There are also a variety of patterns in style this season. 

Geometric patterns are hot on the scene as well as girly florals.  Animal prints are always popular with swimwear, but this year designers are spicing it up by infusing color into their designs. 

Don't be shocked to see a blue leopard print on the beach.

Like a little more bling on your bikini?  Sequins and beading are out in full force this season. 

We see most of the embellishments on the tops of the suits, leaving the bottoms neutral as so not to compete for attention.  Metallic is also making an appearance this year. 

Designers are utilizing metallic rings on their suits in all different shapes and sizes. 

Swimwear is also highlighting a feminine touch this year with the use of embroidery and ruffles.  Ruffles are perfect for camouflaging any uncertain areas you may be wary of. 

A ruffled top or bottom can also add volume to places you may be lacking in, showing what the power of a great bathing suit can do for you.  If you're looking to add a twist to a ruffled top, try it with a sexy boy short.

Remember, when choosing a bathing suit, it is important to stick to your personal style.  Pick a suit that tells who you are, and that you can rock with confidence. 

By Lindsey Digue   Thu, Mar 04, 2010

photo by stevenvanw

Spring break gives many college students a chance to get a jump start on summer fashion.  But however long it has been since you've worn a bikini or slipped into a sundress, it is no excuse to forget those major fashion faux pas of summer style. 

Here is a quick guide of do's and don'ts before you start packing for your sunny get-away. Spring break is all about having fun and letting loose, so don't be scared to mix things up.

Pack up all those bright summery colors and include patterned clothing.  However, when you arrive to your destination do not overwhelm one outfit with too many patterns. 

This is your chance to leave behind your all black winter ensemble, but don't over do it.  Floral and zebra print are great, just not together.

It is okay to go bold and show a little more skin while you travel from club to club at night, but please ladies do not wear a tunic as a dress.  Everyone knows that you are wearing a shirt. 

No matter how great your legs may be, this is always an unflattering effort.  Do try wearing a cute pair of tights underneath a tunic or make sure each dress you buy is, in fact, a dress.

One of the more common fashion errors made while on Spring Break is showing off bra straps with tube tops and strapless dresses.  This is in no way trendy. 

Do try out these sleeveless garments, but make sure to buy yourself a strapless bra first. Short shorts, daisy dukes or hot pants; whatever it is you may call them please keep them out of your suitcase. 

While shorter and shorter styles are becoming the new trend, make sure your shorts are not so revealing that the curvature of your bottom is showing.  This is not becoming, no matter how toned your butt may be. 

While Uggs are most likely the only thing you have stepped out of the house and into the snow wearing this winter, do not step onto the beach in them.  Buy yourself some sandals.

It is not uncommon that the gyms and tanning booths are filled during the weeks leading up to a Spring Breaker's departure, but don't forget your toe nails.

Those unattended piggy's have been hibernating all winter.  If you don't have money to get a pedicure at the salon, you better start scrubbing down and polishing up your toe nails on your own.

Picking out the right bathing suit is crucial to your Spring Break wardrobe.  Whether you went for a two piece bikini or a one piece monokini, do no wear them in public places, unless it is a public beach. 

Most importantly make sure you are comfortable in what you are wearing.

Shirts that belong on a Barbie do not belong on you, as well as billowy shirts that more resemble a moo-moo. 

Lastly, try not to wear clothes that let it all hang out.  And if you are going to wear over sized clothing, wear it no longer than to the bottom of your thighs as a t-shirt dress.

By Sherri Keaton   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

Boom. Boom. Boom.

His fluid hands fell into a rhythmic groove. Moving. Shaking. Pounding against the African djembe drums Monday night before a crowd of 30 students who listened to Collette Mabingani.

Born and raised in South Africa, Mabingani has experienced brutalities of the South African apartheid and tells of his experiences through his music, playing instruments such as the piano, bass and djembe.

Inside Central Michigan University's School of Music, Mabingani played traditional South African music and answered questions from the curious crowd afterward.

Ohio sophomore Andrew Walker is the president and founder of The Collective for Music Research and Cultural Studies and said that Mabingani's playing Monday night is essentially what the group stands for- diverse music.

Their goal is to create awareness for musically diverse things.

"We have been trying to put on events like this where we utilize a kind of a musically diverse interest or focus," Walker said. "This opens it up, and we try to stay away from being limiting to just music students."

Walker also said much music tends to be on the traditional side, and there are not a lot of opportunities for world music.

"Collette has a great story of  how he got from South Africa to here; it is unique and also captivating and capturing through South African culture," said Walker. "I think he does a fantastic job of capturing the sense of African culture, and for me when Collette plays djembe, you can't help but smile, especially because he is a master drummer and his skills are pretty impressive."

GCM photo by Sherri Keaton

By Megan Townsend   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

Pearce 327 was only about three quarters full for the showing of the film "Como Agua Para Chocolate" Tuesday evening, but that was a "pretty good turn out" said organizer Cristen Vernon with a laugh. 

Vernon said that the Spanish department will be showing eleven films this semester. The film nights are primarily planned to help students in Spanish classes, which require attendance of at least one cultural event during the semester, but all students are welcome. 

"It's a fun way for them to learn a little about culture and history as well as to improve their Spanish," Vernon said. "We're also happy to give everyone on campus the opportunity to watch a film that they may not find in their local movie store." 

The Spanish department makes the final decision on what films will be shown, along with input from the Spanish Club and Sigma Delta Pi.  

"Students are currently learning about the Mexican Revolution in a couple of the classes that we offer, and this film fits well into that discussion because it takes place during that time," Vernon said. "It gives students a way to connect to the culture and history in a more visual way while they are studying a specific concept." 

"Como Agua Para Chocolate" was definitely a different experience for me being the first foreign language film I've watched. The plot is impossible in a Latin or Spanish culture where so much emphasis is placed upon family and tradition.

In the film, an overbearing mother forbids her youngest daughter to ever marry, saying that it is her duty to uphold the family tradition and care for her mother until the day she dies. A man falls in love with the young girl and marries her older sister to be near the girl. The movie tells the story of their love and the effect it has on the other family members, servants, and friends of the family. The man and young girl wind up together in the end, but he dies and she kills herself so she will not have to live without him. 

The film was confusing in parts and really required you to suspend your sense of reality to believe in the magic of Tita's cooking, but it was an interesting story. The characters  played their roles well for being a more over-the-top foreign film. 

Overall, it was an interesting experience, and I'm glad I gave the event a try, but probably not something I would be looking to repeat anytime soon.

By   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

By   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

By Nick Baker

Best Supporting Actor: Christoph Waltz - Inglourious Basterds

If there is one category where I think one nominee stands up head and shoulders above the rest, it's this one. Waltz plays a high ranking Nazi officer, renowned for his ability to hunt down Jewish fugitives in WWII occupied France. His performance is truly remarkable, bringing a sense of relaxed, sociopathic evil to his character. He does horrible, disgusting things to people and yet acts as if his job is just as normal as everyone else's. It's this ability to bring such an interesting and sinister personality to a character that makes Waltz such an amazing actor in this film and should earn him an Academy Award. Inglourious Basterds has earned some nods in other categories as well, but I would expect Waltz to be the only person taking an award home for this film.

Best Supporting Actress: Mo'nique - Precious: Based on the Novel "Push" by Sapphire

This is another category where there is one nominee that is almost certain to win. Precious is the movie that's sneaking under everyone's radar. It doesn't have the big name credentials that the other nominees have and it isn't getting all the extra publicity smaller films like The Hurt Locker is. Precious shouldn't be overlooked though, with Mo'nique's performance easily being the most memorable part of it. As the unemployed abusive mother of an overweight 16-year-old girl living in the slums of Harlem, Mo'nique's performance is even more unsettling than Waltz's. It's an emotionally gripping film with Mo'nique leading the assault, because of this it's almost guaranteed she will walk away with this award.

Best Actor: Jeff Bridges - Crazy Heart

While I would like to see Jeremy Renner's performance in The Hurt Locker get him the award in this category, all signs seem to be pointing toward Bridges. His performance as the troubled county singer has garnished international attention and earned him a Golden Globe award, a win that the entire audience gave him a standing ovation for. While Renner could still pull an upset and overtake Bridges, it's not very likely. I'm putting my money on Bridges and his deeply heartfelt and moving role. It's hard to argue with a standing ovation.

Best Actress: Sandra Bullock - The Blind Side

The Blind Side was a very unlikely candidate for Best Picture, but Bullock's nomination for Best Actress was a guarantee. Bullock easily faces the steepest competition; namely Meryl Streep for Julie and Julia as well as Gabourey Sidibe for Precious: Based on the Novel Push, but I'm still giving her the edge. Bullock, a veteran of the industry, has yet to receive her due in the Academy Awards and this year she finally gave a performance worthy of one. As the hard headed, yet caring, southern mom and housewife who takes in a homeless teen, her performance is by far the most memorable part of the film and is probably the main reason why it got it's best picture nomination. While I wouldn't be shocked if Streep or Sidibe walked away with this award, I believe Bullock is still the front-runner.

Best Picture: The Hurt Locker

2010 marks the first year that the best picture category holds ten nominations, twice the number all the previous years held. All those extra nominations don't make the winner in this category any less clear though. There are three films that have a realistic chance at this: The Hurt Locker, Avatar, and to a lesser extent Inglourious Basterds. If any of the other films take home this award it would be a shocker that I'm sure very few would see coming. I believe that The Hurt Locker will, or at least should, win in this category. The film follows a military bomb squad in Iraq, a job that's anything but dull. It's a tense war film with plenty of drama and suspense, taking its plot ideas from a division of the army few people think about. The storyline, as well as the acting, are both phenomenal and make for an emotionally charged action film, something that you rarely see on this level in today's films. While Avatar could end up with the award due to its record-breaking box office numbers and amazing CGI, it's lack of nominations in screenplay and acting categories means that it had little going for it besides computer effects and ticket sales and I would expect a more all around well made movie, such as the Hurt Locker, to win here.

By Laura Uribe

* Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role: Jeff Bridges ("Crazy Heart")
* Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role: Christoph Waltz ("Inglourious Basterds")
* Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role: Sandra Bullock ("The Blind Side")
* Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role: Mo'Nique ("Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire")
* Best Animated Feature Film of the Year: "Up"
* Achievement in Art Direction: "Avatar"
* Achievement in Cinematography: "Inglourious Basterds"
* Achievement in Costume Design: "The Young Victoria"
* Achievement in Directing: Kathryn Bigelow ("The Hurt Locker") or Quentin Tarantino ("Inglourious Basterds")
* Best documentary feature: "The Cove"
* Achievement in Film Editing: "Inglourious Basterds"
* Achievement in Makeup: "The Young Victoria"
* Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original score): "Avatar" (Music by James Horner)
* Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original song): "The Weary Kind" from "Crazy Heart" (Music and Lyric by Ryan Bingham and T Bone Burnett)
* Best Motion Picture of the Year: Most likely the "The Hurt Locker" but "Inglourious Basterds" has a good chance too.
* Achievement in Sound Editing: "The Hurt Locker"
* Achievement in Sound Mixing: "The Hurt Locker"
* Achievement in Visual Effects: "Avatar"
* Adapted Screenplay: "Up In the Air" (Screenplay by Jason Reitman and Sheldon Turner)
* Original Screenplay: "Inglourious Basterds" (Written by Quentin Tarantino)

By Matt Erspamer

Best Picture

Will Win: Avatar. Highest grossing movie of all time, revolutionary special effects, James Cameron- though none of these factors qualify it in my book, the Academy went with Titanic, and it will go with this one to get a ratings boost.

Should Win: Up In the Air. Jason Reitman's film is a movie that perfectly captures and analyzes the point we are at in this country's history. With a pitch-perfect screenplay, cast, and production team, you can't go wrong.

Left Out: Spike Jonze's Where the Wild Things Are. Kids movie my ass, this movie deserved recognition. Not only does it speak the truth, something watered down in The Blind Side, it looks and sounds great thanks to revolutionary production design and some of the best voice work ever recorded.

Best Actor

Will Win: Jeff Bridges. He's been winning every major acting award at all the right ceremonies and has the underdog momentum that failed Rourke last year. However, Bridges doesn't have any clear competition, so the trophy is all his.

Should Win: Jeremy Renner. As a bomb diffuser in Kathryn Bigelow's The Hurt Locker, Renner is responsible for at least part of the unnerving suspense. Watch him, lost and confused, not at war but in a super market back home, to really get the gravity of his performance.

Left Out: Michael Stuhlbarg in A Serious Man. Giving one of the greatest performances ever in a Coen Brothers movie is a bold statement. Not here.

Best Actress

Will Win: Bullock. That it's said Meryl Streep has a chance is pushing it. Bullock has won more awards, and Streep never wins the big prize. Do either deserve to win? No, but Bullock is the least capable of the 5, making this the most disappointing category of the night.

Should Win: Carey Mulligan. She gave the best performance of 2009, never mind that it was her first as lead. That she doesn't have more momentum behind her speaks more to the box office standards of the Academy than anything.

Left Out: Zoe Saldana in Avatar. Yeah, you heard me. Her motion-captured performance ranks with that of Gollum's. Benjamin Button gets a nomination, but not one that requires the performer to move like a different species? Please.

Best Supporting Actor

Will Win: Christoph Waltz. Like Bridges, he's won all the important awards, and there's really no stopping him at this point.

Should Win: Waltz. Sometimes, they line up the way they should. As a Nazi layered with menace and a hidden agenda, he delivers Tarantino's dialogue in 4 languages with creepy precision.

Left Out: All of the top 5 are pretty great, but I would've liked to see Peter Sarsgaard nominated for An Education. He takes a role that could've been that of a creepy pedophile and makes it into something more mysterious, but still dark.

Best Supporting Actress

Will Win: Mo'Nique. As an abusive mom in Precious, there's no surer thing on Oscar night than an award for her.

Should Win: Mo'Nique. Sometimes a performance deserves all the attention it gets. Playing a monster who gives horrible light into her motives, this performance is one of those times.

Left Out: Marion Cotillard in Public Enemies. As the love interest of Johnny Depp's John Dillanger, Cotillard steals the spotlight in the scenes she's in, bringing a magnetism and feeling that gives the movie part of it's bruised soul.

Best Director

Will Win: It's hard to say whether it will be Bigelow or Cameron, but I think Kathryn will edge out her ex-husband and become the first female to ever win the award.

Should Win: Bigelow. The directing is what makes the locker hurt so much. The bruised souls and the unnerving suspense come together to create master-class in film making.

Left Out: Spike Jonze. He directs Where the Wild Things Are with such vibrant creative energy and vision that it's a shame nobody in the Academy seemed to notice. Also throw in Neil Blomkamp, who is responsible for the sleeper summer hit District 9.

Best Original Screenplay

Will Win: Tarantino. It's been awhile since Pulp Fiction, and this is one area where the Academy doesn't mind acknowledging him.

Should Win: The Coen Brothers. They craft a script in A Serious Man that is so brusingly pitch black and hilarious that it will make you feel guiltier for laughing than Bruno did.

Left Out: (500) Days of Summer. If there's one nomination this movie deserved, it was this one.

Best Adapted Screenplay

Will Win: Up In the Air. Reitman and Turner have written a script that is filled with humor and gravity, and this is the one area where this movie will be acknowledged.

Should Win: Though I have no problem with UITA winning, Nick Hornby's terrific adaptation of An Education is in my opinion superior.

Left Out: Again, Where the Wild Things Are. Who would have the audacity to adapt a 12-page children's novel that's mostly pictures? Jonze did, and he rocked it. For shame, Academy voters.

Photo Courtesy of Warner Bros. 

By Ben Weissenborn   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

By Susan Young   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

David Burdette, Vice President of Finance and Administrative Services said that CMU's cancellation policy has always been about the safety of the students and faculty.

Burdette meets with CMU Chief of Police Bill Yeagley, Associate Vice President of Facilities Management Stephen Lawrence, and Director of Public Relations of University Communications Steven Smith to determine the conditions of the area.

"If we know a big storm is coming, we get together around lunch the day before and discuss it," Burdette said.

They review conditions of campus sidewalks and parking lots, as well as road conditions of Mount Pleasant, Isabella County, and outlying areas. If the decision is made to close campus, normally around 5 a.m., Smith alerts the local media, e-mails students, and records a voicemail message.

Dustin Himebauch, Lapeer sophomore, is one of the many students questioning CMU's closing policy.Himebauch thinks that the road conditions are tested too early.

"Sometimes by 8 or 9 in the morning, the roads have gotten exponentially worse," he said.

"There's definitely two days where school should have been canceled, and possibly a third," Himebauch said.  "The walking conditions, let alone driving conditions were not safe."

Charlotte senior Abbie DeBach agrees that this year, some days were not safe for students to be on campus, especially Feb. 9, 2010.

"I was walking to my car from Anspach to the commuter lot and I slipped on the sidewalk that was covered in ice," DeBach said. "I slipped and dislocated my ankle and tore three ligaments, and ended up having to have surgery."

"When I was in the emergency room, I was not the only one that slipped and fell on the ice that day on campus," DeBach said.

Burdette said that back in 2008 when CMU had its last weather cancellation, there were several snow days, mostly Tuesdays, and students became upset with the constant cancellations.

"It's really all about safety," Burdette said. Whether it makes students happy or upset does not affect their decision.

"We ask, can people safely get to school or not?" Yeagley said. "Most people can make these decisions themselves. It has to be fairly bad for us to make a recommendation to close school."

"I'm glad I have an opportunity to walk to school everyday," Himebauch said. "I would have taken days off if I had to drive in it."

By Sheri Krotzer   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

The night featured a variety of free events including glow bowling, pool, a 'dive-in movie,' food, a casino gaming area, ping pong, inflatables and more.

Ashley Edwards, Lapeer sophomore, started her night off bowling and was thrilled to participate in the event.

Ashley Edwards bowls in the SAC during CMU Up All Night on Feb. 27, 2010. GCM photos by Elodie Gerard.

Brooklyn junior, Samantha Brzozowski, was also excited to be at the event but for a different reason.

"We're trying to start a SADD (Students Against Destructive Descisions) group at CMU," said Brzozowski, SADD president. "We figured since it was such a large non-alcoholic event, it would be a good way to incorporate our group."

The SADD group recently became a registered student organization with about 15 members and hosted a booth at the event to gain membership and promote awareness.

Carissa Schultz, Beth Nowland, Samantha Brzozowsk and John Skrbina help out students at the S.A.D.D booth during CMU Up All Night on Feb. 27. GCM photos by Elodie Gerard.

"We have a lot of ideas," said Brzozowski. "We just need to add the force of people to them."

SADD plans on attaching ribbons on cars for St. Patrick's Day. But, Brzozowski said their big event plan "is to sponsor a bar, have a band play and hire taxis for free rides home."

Chris Strobel, Stephenson junior, and Sean Wallace, Dexter junior, decided to take part in the casino portion of the event.

"I've gone two years in a row," said Strobel. "It's a nice way to relax during the weekend and have fun. It's a really good event; it gets people out and is a good outlet just before midterms."

Wallace decided to spend a lot of time at the casino portion because the lines were so long everywhere else.

Chris Strobe and Sean Wallace play 21 at CMU Up All Night, held at the Student Activity Center on the evening of Feb. 27, 2010. GCM photos by Elodie Gerard.

Montague sophomore, Jacob Peterson, enjoyed battling Theda Yarnell, Battle Creek sophomore, with giant cue-tips in the gladiator fight.

"The cue-tips were a lot heavier than I thought they would be," said Peterson. "I think this event was a really good idea. People can have a good time without going to the Wayside and other things. It's a real healthy alternative."

Yarnell agreed and was surprised with how original the activities were.

"I heard about it last year, but didn't go," said Yarnell. "So, I just had to check it out this year and am glad I did."

By Sharon Smith   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

The smell of tasty Buffalo Wild Wings and cigarette smoke filled the air among the eager teams who were anticipating the challenge, expecting to go home with full stomachs.

The contest was divvied up into two heats of four teams.

Teams included Team Upchuck, Team Wannahawkaloogie, Team The Rookies, Team Man, Team Dirty Checks, Team Alpha, Team Choo-Chews and Team B.A.B.E.Z.

The contestants were required to eat a total of four dishes, two per teammate. The dishes included: chicken, saltine crackers, ice cream and powder donuts.

Rules applied as followed: contestants must eat one dish entirely and show judges their empty mouth, followed by securing a high five with the teammate to tag them in.

Contestants are not allowed to have liquids or gum and are disqualified if they cannot finish the dish or if they get sick.

In the first heat, Team Dirty Check's Sabreen Sharrief broke a sweat inhaling the hot wings. 

Team Alpha's Shell Brummell felt the intensity in his face from chewing the dry saltine crackers.

"Eating the crackers gave me a headache, the side of my face started to hurt," she said.

Katie Spauding used a good technique to eating the saltine crackers quickly.

"The crackers are brutal; you have to use strategy. Two at a time, and you can break them up... It would be too much at one time," said Spauding.

The Grub at B-Dubs Champions were Team Man, and the second place winners were Team Alpha. All contestants walked away with prizes.

Justin Werenette received gifts such as Ponderosa dinner, Celebration Cinema tickets, a $20 CMU bookstore gift card, and more.

RPL 430 students were pleased with the outcome of the event, which raised money for Isabella County Soup Kitchen.

By Sherri Keaton   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

If you went to the Wayside last Saturday afternoon, you would have been surprised to see people throwing bean bags at wooden boards with holes in them all day.

This was the first Cornhole Tournament for the Junior Achievement of Central Michigan, an educational organization for K-12 students; money raised from the tournament would be used to assist JA.

Lisa Cross, director of JA said the event raised about $3,000, and the sponsorships contributed to about $1,000 made.

There were about 10 local community sponsors for the event.

 "All the money stays in  Isabella County, and the kids don't have to pay for this. There is not a school left out," said Cross. Cross also said the program will increase next year.

"I think it will just grow, it will be great," she said.

According to its website, JA "is the world's largest organization dedicated to educating students about workforce readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy through experiential, hands-on programs."

GCM photos by Kayla Rusin

Mike Rush, president of JA said their K-12 programs in Isabella County will be reaching about 3,000 students in 120 classrooms. 

Rush said the tournament went great.

"(There's) lots of excitement and enthusiasm, the overall atmospheric competition is fun," he said. "It's something different for us in the community."

About 75 Mount Pleasant residents and surrounding community members and students came out to play the game. Some lost, others won, while all the teams took it in stride.

Sue Lillicah, Coleman resident, played the game for the first time Saturday, aiming bean bags at her destination and trying to make them line up with the hole. She said it was all for a worthy cause.  

"I came here for one reason, to support Junior Achievement," Lillicah said. "It's good exercise, too."

After much concentration, she finally scored a point.

The game consisted of three levels in cornhole tossing.

The first place team won a $300 cash prize, second won $140 and third won $60.

GCM photos by Kayla Rusin

Jason Haller, attendee, said charity events like this are a great way for people who have never been exposed to cornhole to see the true meaning of the game.

"It is more than a backyard drinking game although beer does go good with it," Haller said.

"Everybody wants to win, and they're competing and when it's done, there's a lot of camaraderie between players," he said.

By Danielle DeGroat   Thu, Mar 04, 2010

Registration began at noon for the two-person teams at $35 per entry, and the turnout was overwhelming. Normally ending at 12:30 p.m., registration carried on until 1 p.m.

This year's event gathered more teams than any previous year. Thirty-nine teams participated, an increase of 11 teams from last year.

The winning top four teams. Back row from left to right, Jacob Detwiler, John Barker, Tim Bundy, Ken Vasquez and John Flores. Front row from left to right, Jennifer Tompkin, Rhonda Owens and Joe Owens. Courtesy Photo.

In addition, this event raised over $1,200, the greatest amount of any previous event.

"I couldn't be happier with this year's turnout," said CCS Service Coordinator Vanda Barker. "We have never had so many people."

Teams were able to practice from 12:45 p.m. to 1:15 p.m., which then began the five-game Dutch Bowl tournament.

For the first three games, teams could purchase a "split insurance" card, which allowed them to erase one split from each of the first three games and re-bowl that frame.

"It's great to see the amount of support we have this year," said Ruth Ann Sowle, CCS board member. "It just helps CCS so incredibly much; we are all so thrilled."

Between games, door prizes were given out, which were offered by CCS, Chippewa Lanes and other local businesses. Every team received a door prize.

Throughout the tournament, 50/50 raffle tickets were sold, along with a raffle to win a handmade quilt donated by the Little House Quilters.

CSS also provided pizza from the Pizza Hut next-door for all participants.

The winner of the quilt, Dave Lewis. Courtesy Photo.

At the end of the tournament, the "Shot Call" contest was held, awarding $5 to participants who successfully completed their shot. Afterward, two raffles were drawn at $90 each for the 50/50 drawing, and the quilt raffle was chosen, won by Dave Lewis, Mount Pleasant resident.

Scores were added up for all five games, and the top four teams earned cash prizes of $40, Jacob Detwiler and John Barker; $50, Ken Vasquez and John Flores; $60, Jennifer Tompkin and Tim Bundy; and $80, Joe and Rhonda Owens. All winners are local residents.

"It's so entertaining every year," said Barker. "And it's especially great watching how competitive the teams get with each other."

All profits from this event stay in Isabella County.

By Laura Uribe   Thu, Mar 04, 2010

Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010

Photo by Laura Uribe

So I didn't exactly get to see the Sears Tower after all.

My parents and I were told the visibility due to the fog was very minimal and we would still be charged the $16 per person fee to just look, or in this case attempt to look, at the ground below.

But at least I got to do some more sight-seeing after my first audition.

The audition process is never an easy one. Preparing and taking the time to dedicate yourself to finding, memorizing and learning how to immerse yourself in the role that will be played can be fun but grueling at the same time.

Once I step out in front of the judges, it's only me and my craft; there's no backing out or leaving the room. I must do my best to prove myself as a performer by using all that I've learned and worked for while, at the same time, being as natural as can be and never losing sight of being a storyteller.

I did my best and so I can only hope for the best.

After the audition, I knew a great way to celebrate the accomplishment was to treat myself at one of the nation's well-known city restaurants.

Giordano's Famous Stuffed Pizza is unlike any other pizza you'll ever find in Mount Pleasant. These stuffed pizzas can include almost any ingredient or combination desired and is made in layers resulting in the look of a lasagna pie.

The restaurant is lightly dimmed for an intimate yet fun setting to bring friends and family together for a nice meal.

Along the walls are articles about the city's history as well as old black and white photographs of the Sears building and other statues and landmarks.

Since the pizzas can be made to the customer's order from the list of options on the menu, it takes about a half-hour or more of waiting time before anyone can dig into their meal. But it's all worth it. In fact, the restaurant takes great pride in displaying their menu's reviews in publications, like The New York Times, praising their pizzas.

The meals are fairly affordable and the portion sizes are quite large - even a small pizza can be too much for one person. Ordering just one pizza and sharing it will most likely still leave you with leftovers to take back home.

After eating there, it's a fact that microwavable pizza in a college dorm or apartment will never match the cheesy goodness of Giordano's Famous Stuffed Pizza.

Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010

It has been a long day of auditions and despite the relief of putting them and the nervousness behind me, I knew that before my parents and I were to head for home tomorrow, we would have to see more of the city.

The advantage of staying at the Hyatt Regency Hotel is that it's literally within walking distance of almost all the major retail stores and tourist attractions.

Bloomingdale's and Macy's are among the biggest department stores located in the nearby area and inside of each are smaller boutiques and coffee shops.

There's a two-story Best Buy and even a Borders bookstore where there are not only two main floors but an underground level as well.

Nearby is the famed Chicago Theatre where, according to posters outside of its doors, will soon have performances and presentations by singer Mariah Carey, comedian Lewis Black and Travel Channel host and writer Anthony Bourdain.

Growing up in Ontario, Canada, I remember a restaurant called Elephant & Castle that served European cuisine. I would eat there whenever I traveled to a city like Toronto. However, when I moved to Michigan, I wasn't able to go there anymore.

That is why I was shocked to discover an Elephant & Castle only minutes away from the Hyatt Hotel and that served all of my old favorite dishes.

One of the unique aspects of the restaurant is that many of the dishes are given European-slang names. For example, "Bangers 'n Mash" is actually a meal of English sausages, mashed potatoes, beans, gravy and baked apple slices.

Other traditional meals available at affordable prices included a shepherd's pie, fish and chips and nachos.

I can only hope that one day this restaurant will find itself in Mount Pleasant so that others can experience the tasty home-cooked meals prepared in the way they do it on the other side of the Atlantic.

Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010

There was only one last stop that I knew I had to make before I left Chicago this afternoon.

It only felt right as a journalism student to visit the Chicago Tribune.

Since the 1800s, the highly-acclaimed newspaper has featured some of the nation's top journalists who reported on both local and national news, from the crimes of Al Capone to the presidential elections.

It's a place that many aspiring journalists often dream about working in.

Although I didn't get to fully explore the building, the main lobby area consists of quotes from former presidents, journalists and other famous American figures that deal with the freedom of the press, reporting and writing.

Attached to the lobby is a store where people can shop for Chicago and Chicago Tribune souvenirs such as shirts, key chains and post cards. Books about Chicago's history and others that have been written, edited and published by the Chicago Tribune are there as well.

Although I didn't go on any tours or have as much as time as I would have liked to explore the city in depth, my trip to Chicago will always be a memorable one.

With so many cultures, shopping malls, little cafes and the convenience of some of the most historical sites in the country, including Union Station and the Sears Towers within walking or short driving distances from one another, there's always something to go see.

I guess Frank Sinatra was right when he sang that Chicago is "my kind of town."

By Chrissy Fritisch   Thu, Mar 04, 2010

Jan. 27, 2010

Today I had class all day, which basically means I have 3 classes-my spanish class that I just sit in on, my working with people with HIV/AIDS class, and then I was supposed to go to my dance class, but we had to go to our Twi (the local dialect) class instead. I just got my fake braids taken out of my hair since they were itchy and sliding out anyway. Rachael and Paula helped me take them out, and they only took about an hour and a half to do so.

I lost so much of my real hair in the whole braiding process, but I don't really care since less hair means less frizz and less hot. It also monsooned again today-the rain in Ghana comes out of nowhere-the sky just becomes super dark, and then it pours. It's over with a couple hours later, and the sky looks like it hadn't rained at all!

On Monday, Heather and I went to the wrong class for working with working with communities, a

Photo by Chrissy Fritisch

By Kara Yadach   Thu, Mar 04, 2010

How cool is the idea of a restaurant, bar and bookstore all combined? While I was in Washington D.C. to visit my sister, we dined, wined and read at this unique mishmash.

Busboys and Poets is not just another ordinary place to eat. In fact, located in the Mount Vernon T

Photo by Kara Yadach

Busboys and Poets has become a community-gathering place with diverse clientele. This contemporary hangout was first established in 2005. Owner Anas "Andy" Shallal, an artist, activist and restaurateur, had the unique idea to design and create a different style of eating out.

It is one of my all time favorite places to eat. The dining area has a modern, artsy look to it full of comfy couches, love seats and coffee tables to eat and lounge at. Next to the beautiful dining area is the small bookstore filled with ceiling high bookshelves.

Customers are able to put their name in with the hosts, grab a drink from the bar and browse the shelves for books while waiting for a table.

The atmosphere is full of art, history and diversity. Its name is a tribute to Langston Hughes, a poet who was discovered after slipping three of his poems to the famous wordsmith Vachel Lindsay. Lindsay proclaimed his find of the "Negro busboy poet" in the papers the next day.

Perhaps my favorite part of Busboys and Poets is the outstanding menu. It offers both American and international dishes. Among the American foods are burgers and pizza, including an Oceanic pizza featuring mussels, shrimp and leeks. Ethnic offerings include falafels and various paninis, in addition to numerous vegetarian options.

I had the falafel sandwich on a whole-wheat wrap with a side of fresh fruit. It was undoubtedly the best sandwich I have ever eaten. I wish I had saved room to try some of the famous pizza selections.

The restaurant also transitions into a stage for musical performances, poets, inspirational speakers and open mic nights. It stacks a weekly event lineup for customers to sit back and enjoy performances.

It is the perfect place for a college town; and would unquestionably be a successful addition in Mount Pleasant. I look forward to my next visit to Washington D.C. where I will be sure to stop at my new favorite place.

For more information on Busboys and Poet's menu and scheduled events, check out their website www.busboysandpoets.com.