Busy students �lter through the Western Student Associa-tion o�ce, which is littered with le�over Bronco Bash t-shirts, scattered agenda packets and all signs of thriv-ing student life. Outside, rain is falling, but Collin Mays appears level-headed, lounging in a chair amidst the organized chaos.

Mays is a junior political sci-ence major at Western Michigan University. He is the co-chair of the College Democrats and the political a�airs chair for the WSA.

“I’ve just always had a pas-sion for serving others,” Mays said. “What drives me is helping people, connecting with people and wanting to make a positive impact.”

In ��h grade, he developed his a�nity with politics though the TV.

“I just fell in love with it right then and there.”

Wait ten more years and he may even run for governor.

“Hopefully, one day Michigan will be ready for new ways with Collin Mays,” he said with a bashful grin.

-Erin Gignac, News Editor

Voting begins today for this year’s homecoming king and queen, which will be announced at the game on Saturday.

Court members include Lindsay Stone, Christine Davenport, Kyla Marshall, Katie Ballman, Jim Stano, Anthony Haduch, Sean Nicholl, and Cli�ord Pul-ley.

Lindsay Stone is a ��h year senior studying public

rela-tions and political science. Stone was nominat-ed by the Western Student Organi-zation.

She is also a member of Chi Omega, a member of the Public Relations Organi-zations, Lambda Pi Eta Honors Society and Spring Into the Streets.

“Although I am an over-achiever, I’m just like every student. I pulled student loans. I had to work through college. Even though I am so involved, it shows that as a rep of the Western students that I can overcome those things and excel academically and extracurricularly. I’m empathetic of other stu-dents and their hardships because I have them too,” said Stone.

Christine Davenport is a senior studying organi-zational communication with minors in history and graphic and printing sciences. Daven-port was nominat-ed by the Campus Activities Board, of which she is the president, and also participates in Spring into the Streets, the Spring Leadership Retreat, Drive Safe Kalamazoo, Intramural Soccer, Inter-national Festival, WMU Collegiate Singers and Fall Welcome.

“I’m a Bronco for life, and being named queen would be a great way to represent my Bronco fam-ily,” said Davenport.

Kyla Marshall is a ��h year studying early childhood education with emphases on language arts and social studies. Mar-shall was nominated by Omicron Sigma Lambda.

She also partici-pates in First Year Semi-nar, Fall Welcome, Orien-tation Student Leader-

ship, the Michigan Educa-tion Association, Spring

into the Streets and Spring Retreat.

Katie Ballman is a fourth year studying physics, with minors in mathematics and Russian. She was nominated by the Physics Club. Ballman is also a resident assistant and an under-graduate research assistant in the physics department. She was a team-leader at the International Engineering Competition in Istanbul.

Jim Stano is a ��h year senior studying vocal music education and political sci-ence. Stano was nominated by Drive Safe Kalamazoo. He was co-coordinator of this year’s Bronco Bash, is

a former chief jus-tice of the Western Student Asso-ciation, treasurer of Omega Delta Epsilon Choral

Fraternity, a member of Campus Activities Board and a Fall Welcome advi-sor, along with many other activities.

“I should be king be-

cause I’ve been so dedicat-ed to the university,” Stano said. “Western has given me so many opportunities and I’ve tried to give those opportunities back to other students.”

Anthody Haduch is a junior studying early childhood education with emphasis in language arts and social studies. He was nomi-nated by Omicron Sigma Lambda. Haduch is a New Student Ori-entation Intern, a First-Year Seminar Instructor, publicity chair of College Students Against Cancer, a resident assistant, a student orientation leader and a student orientation coor-dinator.

“I should be king because of my interactions with people on campus and my drive to ease the transition onto a university campus for both freshmen and transfer students,” said Haduch.

Sean Nicholl is a junior studying business �nance, marketing, economics and general business. Nicholl was nominated by the Western Student Asso-ciation. He is a member of Drive Safe Kalamazoo, Spring into the Streets,

Relay for Life, the Ameri-can Red Cross, Zom-bies vs. Humans, Fall Wel-come and Orienta-tion Student Leadership.

“I feel that I embody the spirit and pride of West-ern,” said Nicholl.

Cli�ord Pulley is a junior studying global and international studies with minors in Chinese and international business. Pul-ley was nominated by the Young Black Males Support Network. He is a resident assistant at Henry Hall, a student ambas-sador and an Eagle Scout. He also par-ticipated in the alumni chapter of the Turn 2 Foundation, sponsored by Derek Jeter.

“I should be king because I’m a culturally diverse person. I’m humble and always willing to help out those in need,” said Pulley.

Read more at www.westernherald.com. To vote, visit www.wmich.edu/homecoming. Voting closes at noon on Friday, Oct. 7.

SERVING WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY AND KALAMAZOO SINCE 1916

MONDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2011 VOL. 96 ISSUE 8

WESTERN HERALD.COM

wm YOU

in Brief

Student has passion for political arena

By Ambrosia NeldonSta� Reporter

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Today marks the beginning of homecom-ing, a week of pride-building events meant to bring solidarity to the student population. It culminates on the gridiron with the excitement of the Western Michigan Broncos football team taking on Bowling Green and the announce-ment of the Spirit Cup winners.

�is year’s homecoming theme: “Go Big or Go Home!”

“We are really excited about the Homecom-ing activities this year because we are literally putting our money where our mouth is by of-fering $1,000 to the �rst place RSO which lines up perfectly with the ‘Go Big or Go Home’ theme,” said Christopher Sligh, director of student activities and leadership with �rst year experience.

“�is year we’ve also partnered with the city of Kalamazoo to do a pep rally downtown at the Arcadia Festival site and we are excited that the students will be able to beshowcased to the community and get even more recognition for the amazing things they do.”

Other events include the Marchdown, Yell Like Hell Contest, a soapbox derby and the RHA games—short games & contests for Spirit Cup entries.

“If teams want to win the Spirit Cup they better be participating in as many events as possible,” encouraged Marcus Edgette, Director of Funding for the Resident Housing Associa-tion.

So get out your gold and brown and plan your homecoming week!

Monday8am - Homecoming Court voting open4pm – Qdoba Homecoming Kicko� (Golds-worth Valley Pond)7pm – Multicultural Review (Dalton Center)Tuesday7pm - Yell Like Hell & Improv Contest (Dalton Center)Wednesday11am - WSA Western Wednesday: Homecom-ing Edition (Flagpoles)�ursday8pm – Blithe Spirit by Noel Coward (Williams �eatre)9pm - CAB Presents: Comedienne Tracey Ash-ley (Bernhard East Ballroom)Friday11am – RHA Western Games (Goldsworth Valley Pond)12pm – Homecoming Court voting closes2pm – Soapbox Derby (Gilkison Ave)7:30pm – Paint the Town Brown Pep Rally (Arcadia Creek Festival Place)Saturday9am – Campus Classic10am – 2pm – Corral tailgate (Robert J. Bob Stadium)2pm - WMU v. Bowling Green (Waldo Sta-dium)Hal�ime – Homecoming Court Presentations7pm - NPHC Marchdown – Miller AuditoriumA complete list of events can be found at http://mywmu.com/homecoming.

Homecoming 2011 events lined upBy Dan ProczkoSta� Reporter

Broncos show pride2011 Homecoming Court vying for King, Queen

Mays

File Photo/Western HeraldCAB runs the Western Michigan University �ag at the 2010 �ag run, where representa-tives from campus organizations compet-ed before the homecoming football game.

File Photo/Western HeraldThe 2010 Homecoming King and Queen, Chris Bellomy and Janine Putnam, cel-ebrate after being crowned. The 2011 King and Queen will receive $500 scholarships.

PollLAST WEEK’S

Do you like the new Facebook?

a) No (48%) b)Don’t care (32%)

c) Yes (12%) d) Don’t have one

(8%)

THIS WEEK’SWhat’s your favorite

part of October?

a) Halloween b) Seasonal beers

c) Leaves changing d) Cider mills

To submit an answer go to www.westernherald.com

University President John Dunn received the support of the WMU Board of Trustees on Sept. 28, when they enacted a two-year extension of his con-tract. .

According to WMU News, Dunn’s consistent positive evaluations were enough for the Board of Trustees to extend his contract with the university through June 30, 2016.

Dr. Dunn began his term as Western’s ninth president on July 1, 2007.

For more information, visit www.wmich.edu/wmu/news.

Davenport

Stone

Marshall

Ballman

Stano

Haduch

Nicholl

Pulley

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It’s early October and Michigan’s fall season is starting to change the color of the leaves and thicken the layers of our clothes. Whether you’ve got pump-kin spiced co�ee or hayride activities on the brain there are a number of cider mills in the Kalamazoo area that can help satisfy your craving for fall fun.

VerHages Farms Cider Mill is located o� of Stadium headed west at 8619 West ML Ave. Follow the signs and you’ll turn le� into the 51 year-old VerHages Fruit Farms and Cider Mill. �ey are open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and of-fer a number of activities to visitors.

“I like to say we’ve got 850 feet of fun,” said Megan Al-len an employee at VerHages Farms, describing southwest Michigan’s longest zipline. “It takes you from the high-est point on the farm all the

way down to the parking lot and it’s only $5 a person. If we can �t you in the harness you get to ride.”

“�e VerHages Farm also o�ers weekend activi-ties geared towards groups and children. �ey have a $3 hay ride for all ages, a pumpkin jump (much like an air jump) for toddlers, a $2 lost gold mine where you can pan for your very own buried treasure, pick your own apples, $5 pony rides for children and teens and to top it all o�, a face painter,” Allen said. But they have more than just activities.

For only $5 (reservation only) and one hour of your time VerHages Farms will take you on a guided tour of the farm. �e tours are handicap accessible. “You’re taken through Grandpa Vern’s animal barn, then go on a scenic 30 minute hay ride, and shown a demon-stration in the cider mill from start to �nish and af-ter receive a sample of cider straight from the press and

a half pint of nonpasteur-ized cider to take home,” Allen said. �e tour ends at the doughnut shop as you munch on a free doughnut.

VerHages Farms also of-fers hot cakes and 32 variet-ies of caramel apples, some dipped in fudge and oth-ers garnished with crushed Snickers or turtle coatings.

“We sold 3,000 apples last year,” Allen said.

If you’re looking to get lost in the season and show some Western pride there is a WMU Bronco-shaped corn maze at Gull Meadow Farms located on Gull Road north east of Kalamazoo.

“Our biggest college at-traction is our �ashlight corn maze,” said Cassi Coo-per, 16, an employee at Gull Meadows. �e Wendzel family uses GPS coordinates to cut out the shapes them-selves, said Cooper; last year’s shape was the Ener-gizer bunny. For $5 you can walk through the corn maze any day during the week.

Gull Meadow Farms also o�ers wagon rides for a dol-lar, $6 pumpkin lane activi-ties for children, $4 for adults but you can get the whole package, including the corn maze for only $8.50. You can

Zipping into the autumn harvestBy Alyssa TragerSta� Reporter

also pick your own apples by the half bushel; the price is dependent on your selection.

“During the weekends we’re absolutely packed,” Cooper said. “We have customers all over the place.”

Gull Meadow Farms sells their 2010 champion Michigan Hor-ticulture Society State Apple Cider and a variety of fresh doughnuts. �ey bake pump-kin plain and iced, pumpkin cinna-mon sugar, plain and plain iced, plain cinnamon sugar, apple iced and apple cinna-

mon sugar doughnuts. A half dozen doughnuts will cost you $3.50 and $6 for a dozen. And if you’re not full enough yet, top o� your treat with a $6 gallon of fresh apple cider or purchase Ap-ple Cobbler Door County Gourmet Co�ee beans for your mornings.

Gull Meadow Farms is open Monday through Fri-day from 9 a.m to 7 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Traveling west on M-43 Husted’s Farm Market and Cider Mill o�ers Michigan grown fruits and vegetables. �ey harvest peaches, sweet corn, tomatoes, melons, cabbage, beans, nectarines, cucumbers and zucchinis along with cider and dough-nuts and all are sold every day from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

“You can pick your own apples,” said Cameron, an employee at Husted’s, “and we o�er hay rides on Sat-urday and Sundays.” �eir hours change to 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting in November.

Gene the Pumpkin man works and lives o� of M-43

further west than the Hus-ted’s Farm Market.

“Look for the orange glow. �at’s how you �nd pumpkins,” said Gene him-self while quoting a lifetime friend and WAKV’s radio host, Jim Higgs.

Gene started raising pumpkins at a young age and beat the sweet corn kings for their title when he was just 16, in 1952. Gene sells an average of 15 di�er-ent varieties of pumpkins and squash picked from his very own farm.

“I started selling pump-kins in 1954 out of insanity,” Gene laughs. “It’s been in my family since 1885. I was too dumb to do anything in-telligent and too lazy to do anything else.”

Gene’s harvest includes sweetheart squash, banana squash, great neck pump-kins, sweet meat squash, Turks turban squash, and a variety of gourds and ap-ples. He sells his pumpkins to the public, feeds them to his cattle and gives them to a local Kalamazoo teacher who uses Gene’s harvest as a learning tool to instruct students from less fortunate families how to cook with pumpkins and squash.

Gene also has recipe books which include recipes for butternut squash sausage pu�s, winter squash beef stew, pumpkin hamburgers, chocolate mousse pumpkin pie, pumpkin butter and coconut pumpkin loaves among a variety of other gourmet ideas.

“In 2005 we harvested 200 tons of pumpkins and 40 tons of squash, and we expect to get close to that this year,” Gene said. “We’re selling more than just a product here, we sell an at-mosphere.”

Gene’s pumpkin stand is open through October 31 seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Trevor Ritsema/Western HeraldGull Meadow Farms o�ers several varieties of apples, grown locally here in Richland, Michigan.

�e Western Herald sits down with the Co-Vice Chair of Alternative Spring Break, Lindsay Bradford, to discover the hard work that comes along with what was described as, ‘an amazing experience’.

Q: What is alternative spring break and what does it contribute to WMU?

A: ASB is a Registered Student Organi-zation where member’s travel around the United States during spring break to volun-teer. We have multiple di�erent issues that we work with from children, terminal illness, environmental issues, poverty, disaster relief, and many more.

We also have up to twelve di�erent loca-tions that we volunteer at.

Q: What is the environment of the meet-ings?

A: For a participant that joins ASB there isn’t that many meeting mandatory for them. �ere are about three meetings that they need to attend before leaving for their trips. For site leaders, on the other hand, there is a bit more commitment. �ey have monthly meetings, as well as leadership and team building activi-ties to get them prepared for their trips.

Q: What activities do you do together?

A: �e �rst activity that we all do together is the site leader retreat. It is a chance for all site leaders and ex-ecutive board members to spend a weekend together. We do a lot of fun team building activities, such as the low-ropes course, that helps build trust between peers. Another ac-tivity that has always been a tradition is the ‘Incredible Journey’. Incredible Journey is when all twelve volunteer groups come to-gether and work on group activities. �e sec-ond portion of the day the groups will

volunteer some where in the Kalamazoo area.

Q: What are your main goals for ASB?A: My goal this year is to get more people

involved with the organization and to under-stand that ASB is more then just volunteer-ing, it is also a wonderful opportunity to form a bond with your peers at WMU. Alternative Spring Break is a opportunity of a lifetime,that may not be o�ered to you otherwise.

Q: How can students get involved?A: We are currently accepting participant

applications. �ey can either send an email to wmuasbchairperson@gmail.com, requesting an application, or visit our desk in the Student Orgnization Center, located in the Bernhard Center.

�is past Wednesday, Sept. 28, WMU provost Tim Greene led a forum concern-ing Western Michigan Uni-versity’s overall Strategic Plan Outline that is in the process of being constructed.

�e plan itself concerns the overall plan of WMU; its creation, according to Greene, is to give direction to future decisions made by the University.

�e forum allowed stu-dents and committee mem-bers to provide feedback, opinions and suggestions in regards to the written plan with the intentions of bet-tering it through listening to the public’s input.

�e meeting began with Provost Greene explaining that the plan is based on three pillars that encompass broader ideas.

“�ese words describe where we’re going” said Greene. “�ey are: Discovery Driven, Learner Centered, and Globally Engaged.”

“Discovery Driven, you all are discovering new knowledge... and you will continue to discover the rest of your life,” said Greene. He went on to explain that the University’s goal under this pillar is to help its students become discoverers, pro-moting innovation, creativ-ity and research.

“Learning centered,” con-tinued Greene: “What we’re really [concerned with] is: are you a good learner... and will you continue to be a learner in the future, so that you don’t just stop learning a�er your four years.”

“Globally engaged... One thing that this University is extremely well known for is the fact that we are a globally engaged institute.”

Hao Zhang/Western HeraldProvost Tim Greene speaks to WSA about new pillar ideas: Discovery Driven, Learner Centered, and Globally Engaged.

To promote your product or servicein this space, call (269) 387-2092 or

email advertising@westernherald.com

NewsWestern HeraldMonday, October 3, 2011 News EditorErin Gignac

newseditor@westernherald.com387-2088

3

Q & ABradford

in BriefBy Jake AdamsSta� Reporter

WMU’s annual Study and Intern Abroad fair is being hosted in the East Ballroom of the Bernhard Center from noon-4 pm on Wednesday, Oct. 5. �is event will edu-cate students about the study abroad program from both advisors and study abroad alumni. Free pizza and give-aways will be at the event, as well as a chance to win a Eurail pass.

“Students can get infor-mation about scholarships and other opportunities that they can take advantage of af-ter they graduate,” said Whit-ney Morgan, Study Abroad Fair Coordinator. “We have programs suitable for all ma-jors and minors and they all earn academic credit towards

graduation.”�e Study Abroad Fair

will allow students to meet 15 representatives from the study abroad experience that are able to answer questions about Study abroad. �ere are over 70 study abroad pro-grams operating, ranging in time from 10 days to an aca-demic year.

“Western’s study abroad programs are unique be-cause of the great faculty and directors that are enthusi-astic about taking students abroad,” said Jane Warren, Director of Study Abroad and Global Program Devel-opment.

“Study abroad really helps you feel connected to the world; it’s really a small place and you’re able to realize that people aren’t really that dif-ferent,” says Whitney. “It’s

amazing how much you are able to rely on yourself at the end of your program.”

�ere are many scholar-ships, both Western speci�c and nationwide, that can help make study abroad a �-nancially manageable option for students that are inter-ested.

“�ere are exchange pro-grams in which students are able to pay WMU tuition and spend a semester in a foreign college,” said Jane. “In most cases federal �nancial aid that students are able to get for WMU tuition is able to be used for study abroad.”

If you are unable to at-tend the Study Abroad Fair or want additional informa-tion about Study Abroad students, check out an infor-mation session, available ev-ery week day, or look at the

Study Abroad website www.wmich.edu/studyabroad.

Information Sessions will be held at the Study Abroad O�ce of Ellsworth Hall, Room 2425:

Monday 11:00 a.m.Tuesday 1:00 p.m.Wednesday 9:00 a.m.�ursday 1:00 p.m.Friday 9:00 a.m.

By Sam SchreuderSta� Reporter

As the temperature cools down and the leaves start changing colors, people of all ages start looking forward to the upcoming Halloween festivities. In the past week, to prepare for the season, many haunted houses in Michigan have opened their doors to brave guests look-ing for a scare.

One of the most popu-lar haunted houses in the area is the Niles Haunted House Scream Park, located in Niles, Michigan, about 60 miles down US-31 S.

�is year marks the 32nd consecutive year that the Niles Haunted House Scream Park has been open. �e haunted house has been recognized nationally on msnbc.com and playboy.com. Last year the Niles Haunted House welcomed its 1,300,000th visitor.

“I like the Niles Haunted House because they have so many di�erent ways you can go through it. Your experi-ence is never the same. I still haven’t been through all the di�erent rooms, which makes me want to go back for more,” said Autumn Luc-ero, junior at Western Michi-

gan University. Lucero said she is origi-

nally from Niles and has visited the haunted house at least thirty times, but has also visited other haunted houses and prefers the Niles Haunted House Scream Park over others.

�e park raises money for several local charities. Ac-cording to the park’s website, in 2010, the Niles Haunted House generated more than $75,000 for Michiana area organizations.

“A signi�cant portion of [the $75,000] went to more than 80 not-for-pro�t orga-nizations such as Boy and

Girl Scout groups, church youth groups and booster groups for colleges and high schools,” according to the website.

�e attraction is sta�ed by volunteers from more than 80 area non-pro�t groups. �e groups receive a dona-tion based on the number of hours they provide.

Some of the main attrac-tions of the Niles Haunted House include the Field of Screams, a haunted maze; the haunted house itself, which has more than 100 di�erent routes, so every trip into the house is di�erent; Carnevil, a carnival designed to scare

those with a fear of clowns; a haunted hayride; and many others.

Coordinators of the Niles Haunted House say the haunted house is worth the drive for Kalamazoo stu-dents because it’s an experi-ence unlike any other in the state, and the biggest haunt-ed theme park in the area.

Tickets to the haunted house are $11. Additional at-tractions range from $5 to $7. �e Niles Haunted House ac-cepts VISA and Mastercard.

For more information, visit the Niles Haunted House’s website at www.haunted.org.

By Ambrosia NeldonSta� Reporter

WSA holds strategic planning meeting

Study abroad fair to be held on Oct. 5

Niles haunted house open for season

Western Herald Photo FileStudents enjoying last year’s Study Abroad Fair.

CAMPUS

Via the WMU Depart-ment of Public Safety

Miller parking structure on Sept. 17.

250 W. Pond on Sept. 17.

Monday Sept. 24 at 9:29 p.m. for trespassing near the Valley II residence halls on campus. According to police reports, the trespass had occurred a week ear-lier on Sept. 16.

at the corner of Howard and Waite was found to be in possession of suspected methamphetamine at 9:49 p.m. on Sept. 24.

was stolen o� the bike rack at 1001 S. Dormitory on Sept. 25 at approximately 2:25 a.m.

Anyone with informa-tion on these or other crimes should contact the Depart-ment of Public Safety at (269) 387-5555 or online by emailing crime@wmich.edu.

-Joe Stando

CAMPUS

RHA Western games kickoff Fri.

Homecoming week is upon us and the competition for Spirit Cup Champion has begun. Spirit Cup teams will be competing in events throughout the week trying to gain as many points as possible to hopefully claim the title of Spirit Cup Cham-pion and “team with the most spirit.”

Included in the Spirit Cup are events such as Canstruc-tion, Yell Like Hell & Improv Skit Contest, Soapbox Derby, Pep Rally, Flag Run, Court Nominations and the RHA Western Games.

“�e RHA games are a se-ries of games and contests for Spirit Cup entries,” explained Marcus Edgette, Director of Fundraising for the Resi-dence Housing Association.

�e RHA Western Games will consist of an eating con-test and a relay race.

“I’m really excited to see how people do in our relay,” said Marcus.

�e RHA Western Games will be held at Goldsworth Valley Pond at 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 7th.

“As it’s near the Valleys we invite the students to come out,” encouraged Marcus. “We would like everyone to come & have a good time.”

-Dan Proczko

Latest campus crime reports

See WSAPage 6

ASB, an ‘opportunity of a lifetime’By Nora StrehlEditor-in-Chief

Last week I received an email from my student loan company stating that in February my monthly payments would go from being $150 a month to $351 a month. As if I didn’t have enough stress on me as it is with school, work, bills and family… let’s add this to the mix. How do they expect a college student to pay that much money per month?

Last year I covered a higher education confer-ence that was held here at WMU. In that conference I learned that Michigan spends $54 billion a year and only 3 percent (or 1.3 million) of that money is used for higher education.

Almost every job in today’s economy has a minimum requirement of a bachelor degree. It’s hard enough to get a job, let alone get a loan for school. Sure many students qualify for FAFSA but that doesn’t cover every cost. Not every student quali�es for grants.

In order to obtain

�nancial aid without a par-ent you either have to be emancipated, no longer in contact with any of your family, have a baby or be 23 years old.

�e estimated family contribution amount of $18,000 is required to pay for a student. Contributing that much to their child’s education would hurt them more than it would help the student. �e govern-ment doesn’t take into account what parents pay per month for mortgage payments, car payments, utilities, and groceries. A family of �ve that makes $92,000 a year combined cannot a�ord to give out $18,000 for education and still live comfortably and help their other kids with what they may need.

It’s getting to the point where parents can’t even help their children out be-cause they don’t have credit. College is not a privilege as some people may say it is. It’s a requirement. If you want to do well in today’s society, you need a college education. Obtaining that

education should not be as hard as it is.

Most private loan lend-ers require a minimum income of $12,000 a year and/or a good credit score. I know that as a college student, with all the loans I have out my credit score is less than desirable for a loan company. And it seems as though lenders are making it harder and harder to obtain money for school as the years go on, even though the economy is getting worse by the day.

Most people have less than desirable credit in the United States because they have defaulted on loans or �led for bankruptcy. Some private loan lenders allow you to have a �xed income payment plan while others allow you a full defer-ment until you graduate from college. A�er college you are usually o�ered a forbearance or deferment period but what good is that doing you? It’s just ac-

cruing more interest, which is more money you’ll have to pay in the long run.

Speci�c loans such as the Sallie Mae Smart Op-tion loan require monthly installments of a low �xed rate while in school and then principal and inter-est payments a�er school. Sounds like a great idea right? Wrong. �e Smart Option loan is not a smart option. Depending upon your interest rate, you’re �rst payment will begin at $75 a month. A�er 6 months of paying that amount, you’re payment will then go up to $115 a month. �is is on a �xed rate of 9% interest, as most private loans start at 9%. A�er a year of paying $115, your student loan payments will then go up to $315 a month. So now you are paying pretty much the cost of your living for a stu-dent loan, while attending school. And when you call and let them know that you are unable to pay that loan amount they give you two options: default, or make your co-signer pay for it

because a�er all that is what they are for.

�e economy isn’t ever going to get better when people are defaulting on loans or �ling for bank-ruptcy. Many jobs do credit checks and background checks before hiring people. I read an article on USA Today last year saying that student loan debt was now higher than credit card debt. According to the educationsector.org, one in �ve students with over $15,000 in debt defaulted on his or her loan in the 10 years a�er graduation.

College students face many challenges on a daily basis. Classes are hard; working full time while attending lectures takes a toll on a student. College is not a privilege or even a choice anymore. It’s a requirement and it is tak-ing a toll �nancially and mentally on many people in today’s world. Education is extremely important and should be a higher priority.

ViewpointWestern HeraldMonday, October 3, 2011 Editor-in-ChiefNora Strehl

editor@westernherald.com387-2097

4Frontier Ruckus triggers emotion

Foggy windows aren’t just for cars anymore. On Friday, �e Strutt was vibrant with acoustic energy, close quar-ters and sweaty windows as Frontier Ruckus performed

as part of Boiling Pot Oktoberfest.

Standing in the front row, I was trans�xed and inspired by the subtle rhymes about

the beauty of everyday life. When a band invites you to connect with them through their music, while triggering your intimate emotions, it’s a freeing experience. Frontier Ruckus did that for me.

�e lead singer, Matthew Milia, and banjo player, Da-vid Jones, have been playing together for 10 years. Other members, Zachary Nichols, Ryan Etzcorn and Brian Barnes joined 5 years ago, lead singer Milia said.

�e lyrics of the folk/indie band from East Lansing were highly experimental. Milia appeared to recite spoken word poetry in song. He sang e�ortlessly, perfectly blend-ing to the sound of a banjo, acoustic guitar, drum kit and bass guitar, played by his other hipster band members in leather shoes.

Milia carefully balanced three foot pedals for his e�ects electric guitar e�ects while the band made dra-matic pauses before quickly picking up tempo again, giving the audience a reason to smile and dance.

As a songwriter, I tend to get tangled in trying to rhyme and structure my songs, leaving me completely discouraged. However, a�er talking to Milia, he gave me new inspiration. He loves rhyming, he said.

While watching Milia and Jones perform the Ruckus song “Springterror,” on their website, I forgot about struc-ture and rhyme and fell into their harmonies.

For a bunch of boys who never majored in music, Frontier Ruckus is a band to be reckoned with among the ranks of the best folk/indie groups.

Erin GignacNews Editor

Students burdened by debt struggle seek solutions

Editorial

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[10.06.11]

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Editor-in-ChiefNora Strehl387-2097

editor@westernherald.com

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387-2107advertising@westernherald.com

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By Krystin NicholsSta� Reporter

WESTERN HERALD.COM

Monday, October 3, 2011 5

Engineering expo showcases WMU’s efforts

By Lexie CausleySta� Reporter

Wayne Law offers students a strong and comprehensive legal education in Michigan’s historic, economic and cultural center – at a more affordable price than most law schools. Plus, Detroit’s vibrant legal market provides students with direct access to internship and employment opportunities at state and federal courts, government offices, multinational corporations, unions and major law firms. law.wayne.

THINK WAYNE LAW

go.wayne.edu/ law-michigan

AIM HIGHER

“I chose Wayne Law for its outstanding reputation and value. I have received a robust and well rounded education, as well as tireless support and dedication from the faculty. My legal education far exceeded my expectations. I feel prepared for a successful career in law, and will be a proud alumnus and lifelong supporter of this Law School.”

— Eric Berg, ’11Undergraduate degree: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

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Western Michigan Uni-versity was recently named 21st on the list of most gay-friendly college campuses in the country by Newsweek Magazine. As an ongoing e�ort to increase awareness, and advocate for LGBT Stu-dents, a new registered stu-dent organization is in the works.

Ramon Barthelemy, a PhD student here at Western, is trying to bring a national group called oSTEM to the campus. oSTEM stands for Out in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathemat-

ics.“�e mission of oS

TEM is to provide a ser-vice and support for students, and help create a network between students and pro-fessionals,” oSTEM’s o�cial website stated. “oSTEM is a national, non-pro�t, LGBTQ a�rming corporation.”

Barthelemy hopes to spread the mission of oS-TEM to the students on cam-pus. He attended a national conference on the weekend of September 23rd, to meet with corporations such as Alcoa, Google, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Mar-tin, and IBM.

“oSTEM isn’t so much as a social group as it is a network for the students at Western,” Barthemely said. “It is some-times di�cult forå openly out students to �nd accepting workplaces, and that’s what oSTEM is all about: helping students with their future ca-reers.” Barthemely is trying to �nd a group of students willing to make oSTEM an o�cial RSO on campus. He is looking for people will-ing to take on the leadership positions, and help make oS-TEM a well-known RSO.

Barthemely hopes the meetings will gain more at-tention, and that more stu-

dents will attend. �e second meeting will be held at 8p.m., on Saturday, October 8, 2011, in the Bernhard Center in room 209.

“I want people to feel wel-come when they come to an oSTEM meeting,” Bartheme-ly said. “I not only want to create an environment where people can ask questions and �nd future employers, but a place where people can �nd friends.”

Social fraternity Pi Kappa Alpha is in the process of creating a chapter at Western Michigan University. �e fraternity, which had a chap-ter at WMU starting in the 1960s but had lapsed dur-ing the 1990s, is beginning a process known as coloniza-tion in anticipation of a full chapter next year.

“Pi Kappa Alpha is look-ing to expand,” said Nathan

Summer�eld, the organi-zation’s expansion consul-tant. “Our president, Kevin Virta, was actually a PIKE [a member of the fraternity] at WMU during the 1980s, and we saw this as a great place to create a chapter.

We have a strong alumni base in the area,” Summer�eld continued. “[�e Interfraternity Coun-cil] invited us last year, and it’s worked out so far.”

Along with Joe Wegelin, another of the Pi Kappa Al-

pha’s expansion consultants, Summer�eld will be selecting men to serve as colony mem-bers this year in preparation for being o�cers when the organization receives a full charter. A 13-member alum-ni board will help provide structure during the frater-nity’s infancy at WMU.

“Our selections will be recommendation-based,” said Wegelin. “We’ve been meeting with coaches and advisors of student organi

zations. We’re looking for

quality men, student leaders on campus.”

Pi Kappa Alpha was founded in 1868 at the Uni-versity of Virginia. Since then, it has grown to en-compass over two hundred chapters at colleges across America.

“Pi Kappa Alpha hopes to be a new type of fraternity on campus,” said Summer�eld. “We’re looking for our niche, for a demographic that hasn’t traditionally been served here.”

“It’s always great for stu-dents to have a new option,” said Nicole Millar, assistant director of the o�ce of stu-dent activities and leadership programs, RSO develop-ment/

greek life. “Nate and Joe have been doing a great job of getting a feel of the cam-pus. We’re excited to have them here.” Millar said that although colonization is a relatively ucommon event, it’s in keeping with the Inter-fraternity Council’s goals.

“IFC has been making plans for expansion,” said Millar. “Last spring there were proposals from several fraternities, and Pi Kappa Alpha was selected. We’re happy with the way the pro-cess has moved forward from there.”

�e colonization will take place from September 26th through the end of October. For more information, visit the Pi Kappa Alpha-Western Michigan Facebook group.

New Pi Kappa Alpha FraternityBy Joe StandoSta� Reporter

Representatives of the Engineering expo began ar-riving at 8:45 a.m. �ursday morning, marking the unof-�cial start of the expo.

�e engineering expo is the day for engineering and applied sciences (but also chemistry and supply chain management, to name a few others) students to meet and network with business-es looking for internships, co-ops, and even full-time employment a�er college. As students arrived, mostly shu�ing around looking for class, curiosity was aroused in the eyes of the job-needy.

Internships are a big deal for Bronco engineers, and it shows. Kate Tejeda, a rep-resentative from Plascore

Inc., was very positive about Bronco interns.

“We’ve really had good luck with Western’s interns,” Tejeda said. And Plascore wasn’t the only one. By 12:30 p.m. Parkview was puls-ing with students, suits and smiles. �e foyer was packed all the way up the staircases with short interviews, hasty notes taken on resumes, and handshakes �rm enough to send shivers up your spine. �e air vibrated with antici-pation, swelled with con�-dence and stank with sweat.

And all this interest for

good reason- it’s not just students who are interested in companies, it’s companies that are interested in stu-dents.

“[Western] has a very strong reputation for turn-ing out very good, strong mechanical engineers,” re-marked Tejeda from Plas-core. Nissan’s representative Gino Conte was impressed with the great success Nissan has had with Western Grads, as well as their real-world experience acquired from Formula Car, Baja, and Sun-seeker programs. Graphic Packaging, the world’s top recycled paper board com-pany, came for the Paper and Printing students (something

for which Western has na-tional renown.) �e Graphics packaging reps might have had another reason for com-ing, though; both are Bronco alumni, as is the Vice Presi-dent of the company. And they weren’t the only ones; at least 70 percent of the rep-resentatives at the expo were alumni.

Seeing companies like Nissan, Denzo, and Mitsubi-shi Electric showed the wide scope of the career fair. But seeing a few familiar compa-nies from the K-zoo area is always a heart warmer. And the companies from the Ka-lamazoo area like being close to the college, too. A repre-sentative of Stryker (which

was busy open to close, and booked an entire day of in-terviews for tomorrow) com-mented on Stryker’s special proximity to students.

“Western’s in our back-yard, so it’s a great opportu-nity for us to network with the students and maintain relationships; and it allows us to have internships through-out the year and not just the summer.”

At the end of the expo, it’s always exciting to imagine the possibilities one might have unlocked (it’s also fun to look through all the free stu� one might have picked up). It can be nerve wracking, it can be pulse quickening, but it’s always worthwhile. One

might be thinking, why did 86 companies send represen-tatives to investigate Bronco engineers? Why were tables stacked with pens, backpacks, and water bottles? What sets Broncos apart from Spartans, Wolverines, and the hated Chippewas? Gino Conte, from Nissan gave this reason for sending all the resources again and again:

“�ey’ve been able to re-ally e�ectively articulate what they want to do with their degrees...they really have a passion.”

By Baxter GillSta� Reporter

Hao Zhang/Western HeraldStudents explore endless possibilities at the engineering expo.

Bethany Bohlen / Western HeraldNo Stars in Brooklyn entertains the Friday night crowd with an upbeat cover of “Friday.”

Bethany Bohlen / Western HeraldWMU students stand up front to lis-ten to Jake Simmons and the Little Ghosts on Friday, Sept. 30.

Bethany Bohlen / Western HeraldJake Simmons and the Little Ghosts perform at Old Dog Tavern on Fri-day, Sept. 30.

More to come this week at www.westernherald.com.

OSTEM comes to Kalamazoo

Hao Zhang/Western HeraldStudents meeting with businesses during the engineering expo.

Local bands play Old Dog Tavern

Monday, October 3, 20116

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A new solar power de-velopment created by two Western Michigan Univer-sity students has been in-stalled on Hackett Catholic Central’s roo�op.

Josh Cook and Conner Field are both WMU engi-neering students who began this solar power array proj-ect that is helping Hackett High School with a new form of clean energy.

�e solar panels are cost e�ective and energy su�-cient. �is new installation is inexpensive for homeown-ers, schools, and other insti-tutions. Implementing solar energy at Hackett Catholic Central will help combat global warming.

“�ere is political unrest

dealing with oil and fuel shortages when we can be using our own energy here; it isn’t hurting anyone,” said Cook.

Cook and his team spent about a week or two develop-ing this project and meeting with structural engineers at the Hackett job site. It took about a week for three peo-ple to fabricate the racks and two to three days of electri-cal assembly.

“It’s cost e�ective. People prefer renewable energy and won’t lose their money,” said Cook.

“We began this project which is the second largest array in the state. We are motivated to manufacture, design and install the �rst array,” said Cook. “It is great because my partner Connor

and I both attended Hack-ett Catholic Central High School.”

�ere will be future proj-ects, but the team only works part time because of their academic commitments. �e team continues to pursue clients and to work on new designs. �ey are research-ing, learning, and studying what works and what needs improvement.

“We have a term our team uses when we learn something new each day, ‘tuition’. It is great to work with friends outdoors on a new project that is feasible and works great,” said Cook. “I love renewable energy.”

Solar energy works well not only in sunny states but in cloudy states as well, ac-cording to Cook. It has been

predicted that 70 to 80 per-cent of energy can be sal-vaged on an overcast day.

“�is installation is a direct bene�t because it is from one of our alumni, Sam Field; he is a strong supporter of our school, said Tim Eastman, principle at Hackett Catholic Central.

Eastman determined this solar power would be a per-fect �t for the school and students.

“�e panel’s purpose for our school is to supplement our electricity and to reduce cost on the utility, it gener-ates voltage,” said Eastman. “We use it as an educational opportunity for the students to understand this is a poten-tially viable way to produce energy. It is important to us to promote green energy.”

For most college students, Monday nights typically consist of homework, study-ing, and catching up on all the sleep they lost over the weekend, but how many stu-dents would prefer to spend the night doing

something spontaneous, like speed skating?

�e Kalamazoo area has a brand-new speed skating club branch that has just opened at the Wings West Arena.

In order to get more people involved in the sport, the West Michigan speed

By Katie KrausmanSta� Reporter

By Taline TopouzianSta� Reporter

Hackett installs solar panels

Skate through Mondays at Wingsskating club is inviting any interested skaters to come and try it out every Monday night from 7:45 until 9:15 pm. �is time will be avail-able to skaters of all ages, gender, and skill level and will be treated like open skate, now through mid-March of 2012.

Although the time will be organized like an open skate session and the skaters will be free to speed skate as they choose, there will be a speed skating coach on the ice as well to teach the skat-ers some basic skills. �e interim coach of these ses-sions is Darcie Sharapova,

an Olympic silver medalist in speed skating.

“She’s an excellent coach, for both beginner and ad-vanced skaters,” said Sam Frazier, one of the main or-ganizers of the speed skating club.

Sam and her husband, Dan Frazier, came up with the idea for these sessions af-ter their son became a speed skating national competitor. �e Fraziers then began to talk to the Wings Stadium about the possibility of start-ing up a speed skating club.

“�e main goal of these Monday night sessions is to get kids interested in speed

skating and start a base for our club. �ese sessions also provide skaters with cheaper ice and will create a big-ger entrance to the sport of speed skating in the area,” said Dan Frazier, the creator and organizer of the speed skating program.

Not only is speed skat-ing a fun, healthy sport, but these sessions are also cost friendly for college students. Bringing your own skates is not necessary. �e rink will loan out skates at no charge, as long as there is advance notice made by the skaters so they can be brought in from Muskegon. Helmets

are also available to the skat-ers, at no charge, or a bike helmet may be worn. �e �rst session that the skater attends is free, and each suc-cessive time is $15. �e club plans on possibly reducing the price if enough skat-ers attend these sessions. It is recommended to wear a long sleeve shirt, loose com-fortable pants, and gloves.

Whether students have never stepped on the ice, or are old pros at the sport, the new club urges you to come and try out these fun, pres-sure-free sessions on Mon-day nights.

�e plan itself explained that the campus embraces this idea so that its students are “locally oriented yet

globally competent,” as in-dicated in ��h paragraph on the second page.

A�er the meeting’s intro-duction came to a close, time for questions, suggestions and opinions opened up and feedback was provided

by Mr. Greene and other in-formed persons.

�e �rst source of input concerned the layout of the written plan and came from a WMU student, Jackson Peebles.

“On the front it says: Discovery Driven, Learner Centered, then Globally En-gaged,” said Peebles, refer-encing the actual plan itself that was handed out before the forum began.

“[Yet,] a�er you �ip it,” referencing the packet’s pag-es that are the plan, “it starts: Learner Centered, Discovery Driven, Globally Engaged... I was wondering if we could make it uni�ed... so we’re all saying it the same way.”

Provost Greene reassured Peebles and all those pres-ent that he understood what Peebles meant, and that the committee creating the doc-ument planned to make sure everything agreed when the

�nal copy was published, but right now the current layout is the product of moving things around in an editorial stage.

�e next comment that drew discussion came from Sean Stemas, one of WSA’s College of Arts and Sciences Senator, asking if we would ever be as highly renowned as the University of Michigan or Michigan State University in terms of our research.

“Facts �rst,” began Greene, “we’re at about for-ty eight, forty nine million expected research dollars; [the] University of Michigan is sitting around six hundred million... We have a di�erent niche, as [to] who and what we are.”

Towards the end of the forum Greene let in that he viewed WMU as “a balanced University” creating the ideal undergraduate program that he viewed as “our niche.”

WSAFrom Page 3

Hao Zhang/Western HeraldWSA members and WMU faculty discuss plans for Western’s future.

Eileen Meslar / Western HeraldArt Prize goers explore Terry Brennan’s mixed media piece, “Dumpster Diver.” Art Prize will be open to the public throughout Grand Rapids until Sunday, Oct. 9.

Art Prize still running

Monday, October 3, 20116

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EMPLOYMENT

!BARTENDERSWANTED!

No experience necessary. Training provided. Age 18 ok. 800-965-6520 ext. 123AUTOMOTIVE DETAILER/PORTER Part-time in Collision Repair Shop, Flexible hours, Must have- Attention to detail, Good Atti-tude, Interest in Cars. 2 Positions Available D&A AutoBody Por-tage, MI Stop by and Apply BIOMAT USA- NEW PLASMA DONORS Give life-saving plas-ma and receive $75 1st wk. Valid ID and SS card required. Eat healthy; drink plenty of water prior to visit. Walk ins only. Bring Student ID and receive additional incentive on your first donation. Located 167 E. Kalamazoo. 344-8260 EARN $1000-$3200 A month to drive our brand new cars with ads. www. FreeCarJobs.com FEMALE FITNESS MODELS WANTED for photo shoots for www.musclebeauties.com. No experience required! Models paid $100. For details email: thmmillard@aol.com YARD WORK AND HOUSEHOLD CHORES Kalamazoo City - Once a week. $12 an hour. 269-345-3277: Own transportation. References.

APARTMENTS

APARTMENT FOR RENT $405 2 bedroom 2 bath apartment. (2) Sublets needed fast!! 8 month lease (December 2011- July 2012). PLEASE HELP.Hunter Ridge Apartments Kalamazoo, MI 49006. Please e-mail if interested as soon as possible. kmccomis2688@hotmail.com APARTMENTS K-COLLEGE AREA, Sharp 2 bedroom, Dish-washer, A/ C, Laundry, Pets OK, Avail. Fall, $600/ Mo. 269-353-8201 STUDIO APARTMENT FOR RENT Utilities, dish TV included. 18 miles from campus, safe area. $550 per month. 269-731-5845

HOUSES

419 LOCUS 4 Bedrooms 1 &1/2 bath. Off street parking. $900 + utilities + deposit. 385-4459 NOW SHOWING FOR FALL 4 bedroom, 1-1/2 bath, $1150 per month, $289 per bedroom, hardwood floors, washer dryer, dish washer, parking, close to campus. 269-357-3346

A new solar power de-velopment created by two Western Michigan Univer-sity students has been in-stalled on Hackett Catholic Central’s roo�op.

Josh Cook and Conner Field are both WMU engi-neering students who began this solar power array proj-ect that is helping Hackett High School with a new form of clean energy.

�e solar panels are cost e�ective and energy su�-cient. �is new installation is inexpensive for homeown-ers, schools, and other insti-tutions. Implementing solar energy at Hackett Catholic Central will help combat global warming.

“�ere is political unrest

dealing with oil and fuel shortages when we can be using our own energy here; it isn’t hurting anyone,” said Cook.

Cook and his team spent about a week or two develop-ing this project and meeting with structural engineers at the Hackett job site. It took about a week for three peo-ple to fabricate the racks and two to three days of electri-cal assembly.

“It’s cost e�ective. People prefer renewable energy and won’t lose their money,” said Cook.

“We began this project which is the second largest array in the state. We are motivated to manufacture, design and install the �rst array,” said Cook. “It is great because my partner Connor

and I both attended Hack-ett Catholic Central High School.”

�ere will be future proj-ects, but the team only works part time because of their academic commitments. �e team continues to pursue clients and to work on new designs. �ey are research-ing, learning, and studying what works and what needs improvement.

“We have a term our team uses when we learn something new each day, ‘tuition’. It is great to work with friends outdoors on a new project that is feasible and works great,” said Cook. “I love renewable energy.”

Solar energy works well not only in sunny states but in cloudy states as well, ac-cording to Cook. It has been

predicted that 70 to 80 per-cent of energy can be sal-vaged on an overcast day.

“�is installation is a direct bene�t because it is from one of our alumni, Sam Field; he is a strong supporter of our school, said Tim Eastman, principle at Hackett Catholic Central.

Eastman determined this solar power would be a per-fect �t for the school and students.

“�e panel’s purpose for our school is to supplement our electricity and to reduce cost on the utility, it gener-ates voltage,” said Eastman. “We use it as an educational opportunity for the students to understand this is a poten-tially viable way to produce energy. It is important to us to promote green energy.”

For most college students, Monday nights typically consist of homework, study-ing, and catching up on all the sleep they lost over the weekend, but how many stu-dents would prefer to spend the night doing

something spontaneous, like speed skating?

�e Kalamazoo area has a brand-new speed skating club branch that has just opened at the Wings West Arena.

In order to get more people involved in the sport, the West Michigan speed

By Katie KrausmanSta� Reporter

By Taline TopouzianSta� Reporter

Hackett installs solar panels

Skate through Mondays at Wingsskating club is inviting any interested skaters to come and try it out every Monday night from 7:45 until 9:15 pm. �is time will be avail-able to skaters of all ages, gender, and skill level and will be treated like open skate, now through mid-March of 2012.

Although the time will be organized like an open skate session and the skaters will be free to speed skate as they choose, there will be a speed skating coach on the ice as well to teach the skat-ers some basic skills. �e interim coach of these ses-sions is Darcie Sharapova,

an Olympic silver medalist in speed skating.

“She’s an excellent coach, for both beginner and ad-vanced skaters,” said Sam Frazier, one of the main or-ganizers of the speed skating club.

Sam and her husband, Dan Frazier, came up with the idea for these sessions af-ter their son became a speed skating national competitor. �e Fraziers then began to talk to the Wings Stadium about the possibility of start-ing up a speed skating club.

“�e main goal of these Monday night sessions is to get kids interested in speed

skating and start a base for our club. �ese sessions also provide skaters with cheaper ice and will create a big-ger entrance to the sport of speed skating in the area,” said Dan Frazier, the creator and organizer of the speed skating program.

Not only is speed skat-ing a fun, healthy sport, but these sessions are also cost friendly for college students. Bringing your own skates is not necessary. �e rink will loan out skates at no charge, as long as there is advance notice made by the skaters so they can be brought in from Muskegon. Helmets

are also available to the skat-ers, at no charge, or a bike helmet may be worn. �e �rst session that the skater attends is free, and each suc-cessive time is $15. �e club plans on possibly reducing the price if enough skat-ers attend these sessions. It is recommended to wear a long sleeve shirt, loose com-fortable pants, and gloves.

Whether students have never stepped on the ice, or are old pros at the sport, the new club urges you to come and try out these fun, pres-sure-free sessions on Mon-day nights.

�e plan itself explained that the campus embraces this idea so that its students are “locally oriented yet

globally competent,” as in-dicated in ��h paragraph on the second page.

A�er the meeting’s intro-duction came to a close, time for questions, suggestions and opinions opened up and feedback was provided

by Mr. Greene and other in-formed persons.

�e �rst source of input concerned the layout of the written plan and came from a WMU student, Jackson Peebles.

“On the front it says: Discovery Driven, Learner Centered, then Globally En-gaged,” said Peebles, refer-encing the actual plan itself that was handed out before the forum began.

“[Yet,] a�er you �ip it,” referencing the packet’s pag-es that are the plan, “it starts: Learner Centered, Discovery Driven, Globally Engaged... I was wondering if we could make it uni�ed... so we’re all saying it the same way.”

Provost Greene reassured Peebles and all those pres-ent that he understood what Peebles meant, and that the committee creating the doc-ument planned to make sure everything agreed when the

�nal copy was published, but right now the current layout is the product of moving things around in an editorial stage.

�e next comment that drew discussion came from Sean Stemas, one of WSA’s College of Arts and Sciences Senator, asking if we would ever be as highly renowned as the University of Michigan or Michigan State University in terms of our research.

“Facts �rst,” began Greene, “we’re at about for-ty eight, forty nine million expected research dollars; [the] University of Michigan is sitting around six hundred million... We have a di�erent niche, as [to] who and what we are.”

Towards the end of the forum Greene let in that he viewed WMU as “a balanced University” creating the ideal undergraduate program that he viewed as “our niche.”

WSAFrom Page 3

Hao Zhang/Western HeraldWSA members and WMU faculty discuss plans for Western’s future.

Eileen Meslar / Western HeraldArt Prize goers explore Terry Brennan’s mixed media piece, “Dumpster Diver.” Art Prize will be open to the public throughout Grand Rapids until Sunday, Oct. 9.

Art Prize still running

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SportsWestern HeraldMonday, October 3, 2011 Sports EditorAdam Roberts

sports@westernherald.com387-2088

7in BriefCAMPUSWMU hockey featured on TV

See HockeyPage 8

�e Western Michigan University hockey team won its exhibition match 7-2 against the Univer-sity of Toronto Saturday at LC Walker Arena in Muskegon.

Netting goals for the Broncos were sophomore forward Shane Berschbach, sophomore defense-man Danny DeKeyser, sophomore defenseman Dennis Brown, junior le� wing Trevor Elias, se-nior forward Ian Slater, junior right wing Dane Walters, and freshman forward David Killip.

WMU sprang out to an early 2-0 lead in the �rst period. Berschbach scored at the 9:57 mark o� assists from junior defenseman Matt Tennyson and Brown, while DeKeyser received helpers from Elias and junior forward Ben Warda at the 10:49 mark.

Toronto got in on the action early in the sec-ond period when sophomore forward Blake Boddy scored at the 0:59 mark with assists from sophomore defenseman Matt Walters and fresh-man forward Anthony Bergin.

�e Broncos answered at the 1:18 mark of the

second period when Brown scored with assists going to freshman forward Will Kessel and senior right wing Greg Squires. Elias scored a shorthand-ed unassisted goal at the 10:56 mark of the second period.

WMU carried its excellent e�ort into the third period. Slater scored at the 6:54 mark with assists

from freshman defenseman Jordan Oesterle

and Brown. Walters extended the Bronco lead to �ve goals at the 8:31 mark o� assists from Ber-schbach and Brown.

Toronto scored its �nal goal of the match at the 10:30 mark of the third period when senior for-ward Dan Brewer scored with help from freshman forward Paul Van De Velde and junior forward Byron Elliott.

Bronco hockey going strongAs if the hype of being

ranked number 13th na-tionally, in both USCHO.com and USA Today/USA hockey Magazine Polls, was not enough prestige, the WMU hockey team can be seen on cable TV for eight matches this season. �is should prove to be a great alternative for those who can’t attend the games.

According to a press release from Bronco sports, the Broncos will be featured on TV in both games against Michigan, Friday, Nov. 4, and Satur-day, Nov. 5, with Friday’s game on FSD and Satur-day on Comcast.

For more information visit www.wmubroncos.com for playing times and cable listings.

Two is company when it comes to women’s ten-nis. Two lady Broncos took on opponents from Wisconsin and Illinois-Chicago in the semi-�-nals, last Sunday morning in the Wildcat Invitation-al. Nini Sujashvili per-formed exceedingly well as she and teammate Kathleen Hawkins took the win in Flight B Dou-bles.

According to a press release from Bronco sports, Sujashvili split her two singles matches of the day. A�er falling in the �rst round of the Flight A singles, Sujash-vili rebounded with an exciting three-set win over Illinois-Chicago’s Si-monett, winning 6-3, 0-6, 1-0 in the back draw.

�e Western Michigan University men’s soccer team faced its biggest chal-lenge of the season on Satur-day against an Akron team that is ranked fourth in the nation and is coming o� of a season in which it won the National Championship.�e Broncos were unable to pull o� the proverbial Cinderella story, though, as the squad gave up three �rst-half goals, losing by a 3-0 �nal against the Zips.

Along with playing against a very talented Akron team, WMU also had to play against a prevailing wind in the �rst half, which ended up playing a signi�cant role in the match.According to Broncos head coach Stu Rid-dle, having the wind against his squad didn’t make things any easier.“Losing the toss and having to go into the

wind in the �rst half was a big challenge,” Riddle said following the loss. “We saw that whoever was playing with the wind had control of the game.

To turn around and be down 3-0 at hal�ime is an enormous task against the defending national champion.”�e Broncos did have a few missed opportu-nities that could have made the game closer, including two shots o� of the crossbar. Riddle said that the missed opportunities were some-thing that his team could be somewhat proud of.

“We are really proud of the boys’ second half per-formance,” he said. “We hit the crossbar twice, and with a little bit of luck we could’ve pulled the score closer. But that doesn’t take away from what (Akron) is, which is an

absolutely incredible team. �ere’s a reason why they are the defending national champions.

”�e Broncos move to 3-7-0 on the year, while Ak-ron improves to 7-0-2.WMU has seen a vast amount of close games this year, with missed opportunities play-ing a large role in each game. Riddle said that, if some of these opportunities would have been capitalized on, the record could look sig-ni�cantly di�erent.

“We’regoing through a stage right now where the ball is just not bouncing for us. We’ve hit the crossbar or post twelve times this year,” he said. “�ey are game changing things. Games we would’ve won, games we would’ve tied, games where we would’ve gotten back into it. I just think it’s

bad luck. We keep telling ourselves it’s going to turn around, so we’re hoping that it will soon.”

Riddle said that, for the game against Akron spe-ci�cally, the outcome simply came down to the talent of the opponent.“We’ve got to be realistic. It was the qual-ity of the opponent,” he said. “�ey’re all national team players, and they’re fantas-tic players. Having the wind was obviously a factor, but they played terri�c soccer in the �rst half and scored three great goals. We were lucky it was only three at hal�ime.”

WMU saw two of its play-ers get questionable yellow cards in the �rst half, with forward Shane Lyons getting the �rst of the day in the eighth minute of play, while mid�elder Darren Jones

received his in the twenty-fourth minute of action.

�ough it looked as though Lyons may have be-came less aggressive a�er the yellow card, Riddle said that it did not change the way Lyons played the game.

“We saw at the end that (Lyons) was still putting a lot of pressure on defend-ers,” Riddle said. “I think go-ing forward, even though we didn’t score, we still created a lot of chances, which a lot of teams struggle to do against Akron. Looking back, I don’t think we’ll change anything, we just need a bounce of the ball in the right direction for us.”

Men’s tennis staying on top

Broncos man-handle Toronto

Men’s Soccer face loss; still hopefulBy Matt BuckSta� Reporter

See Men’s SoccerPage 8

By Patrick LittletonSta� Reporter

Tennis team looking strong

�e WMU men’s ten-nis team is �lled with motivation as they record another successful day at the Stan Drobac Invita-tional.

�e Broncos come out on top, as they win �ve of six singles match-es against the Titans and three of �ve singles matches against the Mus-keteers. �ey also picked up a doubles win against Xavier.

According to a press release, leading the charge was Zeyad Montassar who went 3-0 in his com-petitions on Saturday.

For more information visit www.wmubroncos.com.

File Photo/Western HeraldThe Bronco goaltender, like the restof his team, remains vigilant .

B r o n c o s passing game explodes for Big East win

WMU QB Alex Carder throws for 479 yards and 5 TD’s; 3 receivers eclipse 100-yard plateau

In case there was still any doubt nationally, the Western Michigan University football team has o�cial-ly arrived on the scene as a threat to anyone they face.

�e Broncos (3-2, 1-0 MAC) went into Hartford, and beat the hosting University of Connecticut Huskies 2-3, 0-0 BE), 38-31, in a shootout contest that was actually tied at zero a�er the �rst quarter.

WMU junior quarterback Alex Carder recorded the best game of his career and the best passing day in school history going 37-for-51 with 479 yards and 5 touchdowns.

“We just put it back on Alex Card-er and went to the two-minute game and said, ‘Let him take it over,” WMU head coach Bill Cubit told reporters. “And the wideouts, we said the exact same thing to those guys, ‘You’re go-ing to have to go out there and win it for us.’ You could just see Alex, the guy is a gamer. If he ain’t one of the best quarterbacks around, I don’t know where else you get them.”

Carder spread the ball so well that three WMU receivers had 100-yard receiving games.

Jordan White kept up his stellar season with 12 snags for 173 yards and two touchdowns, veteran Robert Arnheim had a career-day with 10 receptions for 113 yards, and Chleb Ravenell added a career-day of his own with 9 catches for 123 yards and 2 TD’s.

“Carder really stepped into the game especially in the second quar-ter is when the whole game-plan changed,” said receiver Jordan White. “We started making strides and hit-ting guys in motion and we settled down and played the game that we know we can play.”

�e Broncos took a ten point lead into the half but eventually blew it and trailed by seven. �at’s when the slugfest commenced.

“I like the way our kids battled,” Cubit told reporters. “It was a little di�erent when our kids came back there and we gave it back to Alex Carder and got into our two-minute game and let him take it over. And the wideouts, we said the exact same thing to those guys, ‘you’re going to have to go back in there and win it for us’. We just got a lot of injuries up-front and the easiest way to protect

those guys is to throw it and when you have a quarterback that does what he does, 37-51 for 479 and �ve TDs, it makes your decisions a whole lot easier.”

In a game where WMU had more penalties (15) than rushing yards (12), the Broncos aerial attack was still dominant.

“I know we can run the ball,” White said. “Because of injuries we’ve had to make some switches. I don’t think it’s a problem going into these MAC games for the rest of the season. It’ll get a lot better.”

UCONN is the last non-confer-ence team the Brown and Gold will face this season. Heading into home-coming week, WMU sits at 3-2 and will be riding high fresh o� of a win against a BCS school from last sea-son. �e three-point loss the week before at No. 22 Illinois had many bright spots that the Broncos learned from have WMU sitting in the driv-ers’ seat of a Mid-American Confer-ence Championship.

“It’s unbelievable, especially how we started out on o�ense,” WMU QB Alex Carder told reporters. “I was messing up a lot and the guys stuck behind me. I got great play from my wideouts, o-line and everyone. �e defense stepped up with the late

turnover. It feels unbelievable and I can’t think of a better way to go into conference play.”

�e Broncos will head home next week for homecoming to face the Bowling Green University Falcons to resume conference play throughout the rest of the season.

“I think we all feel good a�er the game at Illinois last night and a�er how Michigan �nished,” White said. “We really feel like we can play with anybody. We realize there are a lot of teams out there that we can play with.”

See FootballPage 8

By Chris WillisSta� Reporter

Broncos explode for big east win

Photo courtesy of Bronco SportsRobert Arnheim makes a spectacu-lar one handed completion.

Yesterday a�ernoon slat-ed the lady broncos’ women’s soccer team against Akron in a �nish (1-0) that was, to some, a much needed victo-ry. �e lady broncos would tough it out until the 27th minute of the game when Brittany Pavlica would net the only goal of the game, which provided the win for

the lady broncos. �e win against Akron shattered their opponents’ ��h straight shut out game of the season, ac-cording to the press release from Bronco Sports. Caitlin Henderson sent a corner kick that bounced around and o� of Pavlica’s stomach and into the back of the net for her second goal of the season to give WMU a 1-0 lead. �e Broncos defense only allowed �ve shots and

one shot on goal on the day, while WMU landed thereof its seven shots on net.

“It was a hard fought win,” said head coach Suzie Grech on the game that featured 21 total fouls. “Sometimes those (1-0) wins aren’t very pretty and when you have that 1-0 lead you know that they are going to throw ev-erything at you and akron is a very good o�ensive team. I thought we did a good job

of keeping our heads and staying organized. We did a good job of relieving the pressure.” Michelle Watson only needed to make one save in the game to earn the fourth shutout of the season for WMU. Western Michi-gan (6-6-0), 2-2-0 MAC) makes the Kent State/Buf-falo swing next week, bat-tleing the Golden Flashes on Friday at 4p.m. and the Bulls on Sunday at 11a.m.

Monday, October 3, 20118

Kevin Martini / Western HeraldWMU goalie Maddie Reed blocks a shot from an Ohio player, supported by Stephanie Skowneski (8) on Friday, Sept. 30.

Kevin Martini / Western HeraldWMU’s Anina Cicerone (20) dribbles forward despite pressure from two of Ohio’s players on Friday, Sept. 30.

Kevin Martini / Western HeraldMegan Putnam (7) and Stephanie Skowneski (8) �ght their opponents for the ball on Friday, Sept. 30.

Kevin Martini / Western HeraldThe Broncos’ Anina Cicerone (20) attempts to maneuver around an Ohio defender on Friday, Sept. 30.

Photos Eileen Meslar / Western HeraldLeft: WMU’s Stephanie Skowneski shields the ball from Akron’s number 27 on Sunday, Oct. 2.

Right: WMU’s Stefana Ciralu charges forward down the �eld on Sunday, Oct. 2.

From Page 7Hockey

Men’s Soccer

Lady Broncos bring Akron to a halt

Western Michigan wom-en’s soccer fell to Ohio, 2-1 in overtime on a blustery Friday a�ernoon, playing their fourth straight game at home. �e Broncos fell to 5-6-0 overall, and 1-2 in the MAC, while Ohio raised their record to 5-6-0 overall, and 2-1 in the MAC.

Western ended the �rst half with an advantage in shots (9-2), shots on goal (5-0), and corner kicks tak-en (5-1), but were unable to score leaving the scoreboard blank at 0-0 at the conclu-sion of the half.

�e second half, however,

featured the game’s �rst goal, coming in the 56th minute, scored by Western Michi-gan’s junior forward, Anina Cicerone, who led the team with 7 shots, 3 of them on goal. Her sixth goal of the year, a career high, was as-sisted by senior Stephanie Skowneski, giving her six as-sists on the year.

Shortly a�er the goal, Ohio was assessed the only yellow card of the game. �en, in the 70th minute, Ohio scored on a rebound from a shot that hit the cross-bar. �e goal was scored by by Famodu Toye, her second of the year, and she was as-sisted by Rachael Philpot.

Despite registering 14

shots in the second half, and forcing Ohio’s goalkeeper, Mattie Liston, to make six saves, compared to nine shots for Ohio and creat-ing three saves for Michelle Watson, neither team was able to net another goal be-fore the end of regulation.

Both teams registered a shot in overtime, but it was Ohio’s Kelsey Pichel, who led her team with four shots and three of them on goal, scoring by curling a corner kick into the net, netting her third goal of the year, and abruptly ending overtime at the 3:36 mark.

�e game was statistical-ly dominated by the Bron-cos, who doubled Ohio in

shots (24-12), shots on goal (12-5), and created many opportunities on corner kicks (12-3). �e fouls were an even 8-8 for each team, with one yellow card issued to Ohio in the second half. Ohio was able to hold on behind 11 saves from their keeper Mattie Liston, who boosted her record on the year to mirror her team’s at 5-6. Michelle Watson took the loss for Western, making her record an even 5-5.

�e Western Michigan University Broncos’ next two games will be on the road against Kent State (Fri-day, October 7), and Bu�alo (Sunday, October 9).

WMU’s volleyball team su�ered a lost when they squared up to face MAC op-ponent Ball State last week-end. In a four out of �ve game series their record was (1-3). �eir season perfor-mance now sits at 13-4 over-all and 3-1 in Mid-American Conference (MAC) play.

�e Broncos would start the match in a two game de�cit (0-2) out of the �ve games. �e third set result-ed in a win for the Broncos

(1-2) ending in a (1-3) loss overall as the Broncos would be unable to catch up even a�er the third game win against Ball State.

“In addition to her .409 hitting percentage and 22 kills, [Jessica] Brown added six digs and two blocks in the defensive e�ort. [Terin] Norris added 42 assists to her 12 digs for her sixth double-double of the sea-son,” according to a Bronco Sports press release.

Volleyball at Ball State

Women’s soccer falls to Ohio, 2-1

By Adam RobertsSports Editor

By Tyler PeaseSta� Reporter

By Adam RobertsSports Editor

Killip scored the Broncos’ �nal goal at the 16:59 mark with assists from Kessel and Brown.

�e Broncos went 2-of-6 on the power play with ten shot attempts, while Toron-to was 1-of-6 on the man-

advantage with eight shots.�e Broncos will begin

regular season play Friday at 7:00 p.m. at Lawson Ice Arena against the University of Alabama-Huntsville.

From Page 7Riddle said that, although

his squad hasn’t seen much success this season, morale is still pretty high with the group.

“I think they’re �ne,” he said. “�ey understand that in a lot of those close losses, it could’ve been a di�erent game.

I think the boys are still believing. Even though we play Michigan on Wednes-day, I think our most im-portant game is Florida Atlantic because that’s a big conference game for us that we have to win.”

What might be most surprising about the lack of team success this year is what happened last year. Aside from losing two se-niors, this year’s squad is the same as the team that �nished second in the Mid-American Conference a year ago.

Riddle said that, although his sta� does �nd the losses

to be rather odd, the season could easily be di�erent with a little bit of luck.

“We’re racking our brains with that. We only lost two seniors from last year’s team that was the runner up to Akron,” Riddle said. “I genuinely believe that, with a little bit of luck, it could have been a di�erent sea-son so far. Right now, we’re just trying to pick the boys’ heads up and make them believe, and remember that they’re the team that �n-ished second last year.”

Riddle said that, although Akron is a consistently dif-�cult opponent, the team’s presence is useful for every team in the MAC.

“I think that having Ak-ron in our conference has enabled us to recruit better players, because I think a lot of players want to play against the nation’s best teams,” he said. “You get a lot of players that go into the

ACC for that reason, and go into the Big East for that reason. None of those play-ers get a chance to play the national champion in their conference, and that’s what players in the MAC get to do. So it’s been a huge re-cruiting tool for us. It just makes it really hard to try and beat them.”

�e Broncos have two games on the road this week, including the match with Michigan on Wednes-day, followed by a trip to Boca Raton to face Florida Atlantic on Saturday.

Riddle said that, although the Broncos had to continue their losing streak against Akron, it was probably good to get the best team out of the way �rst.

“Maybe it’s a good thing we got them out of the way in our �rst conference game,” he said. “Now we can focus on everything else.”