www. ubspectrum .com

September    10, 2010The independent student publication of the University at Buffalo

Buffalo, New YorkVolume    60      Issue    04

W E E K E N D E D I T I O N

Weather: friday: 68°/ 51° some clouds | saturday: 72°/ 59° sunny | sunday: 69°/ 57° rain Inside: opinion — 3 arts & life — 5 classifieds — 7 sports — 8

• see NOSTAJA | page 2

r egiona l r eco gn i t ion

UB Law School No. 1 in

“Super Lawyer” Graduates

DAVID WEIDENBORNERAsst. News Editor

Thomson Reuter’s Super Law-yers ranked the University at Buffalo Law School No.1 for Super Lawyer graduates practicing in the Upstate New York region. “We are very proud. The Upstate New York rankings include 54 of the 62 counties in New York State,” said Makau Mutua, Dean of the UB Law School. “It is really a nice con-firmation of the outstanding level of achievement of our graduates across the state.” Thomson Reuters is a major legal publisher and produces the third largest amount of books in the world. It produces the publication Super Lawyers, which annually lists the state-by-state comprehensive report of accredited lawyers. This year’s list has 252 graduates from the UB Law School making the cut. That is equivalent to 32 percent of all the Super Lawyers in Upstate New York. “First and foremost, this was achieved because we have extremely talented, hardworking graduates, who are committed to serving their clients and communities with dis-tinction,” Mutua said. “We work as hard as we can to build great lawyers and, to me, there is no question that we are succeeding.” Nationally, UB ranks 48th out of the 180 schools that produce Super Lawyer graduates. “I am particularly thrilled that we were named one of the top 50 law schools in the country because it demonstrates our reach and rec-ognizes the fact that our graduates are rising to the top of the profession from coast to coast,” Mutua said. Earning the distinction of Super Lawyer involves a detailed and strict evaluation process. Each candidate’s personal achievements, as well as their recognition among peers, are major factors in determining clas-sification as a Super Lawyer. The determining research department allows no more than five percent of a state’s lawyers to be put in this class. “Western New York has an abun-dance of terrific attorneys and that of course benefits our community in so many ways,” said Professor Charles P. Ewing, Vice Dean for Legal Skills. “Specifically, many of these attorneys, including many of the Super Lawyers, teach our current students and serve as their mentors. That is inspiring and of enormous benefit to our current students.” According to the UB Law School website, graduates of 2008 have been widely employed. Sixty-two percent of ’08 graduates are employees in law firms, while others are working in

MATTHEW PARRINOSenior Sports Editor

Jerry Davis may have looked cool, calm and col-lected in his opening act against Rhode Island, but the sweat might be pouring come Saturday. The Bulls (1-0) will expe-rience a climate change when the team travels to Waco, Texas to battle the Baylor Bears (1-0) this weekend in a non-conference bout. There is a big difference between what Davis saw against the Rams and what Baylor has in store for the sophomore quarterback. Against Sam Houston St. last Saturday, Baylor dominated the game and buried the Bearkats 34-3 behind the emphatic return of sophomore quarter-back Robert Griffin III.

Gr i f f i n completed 19-of-36 pass attempts for 242 yards and two touch-downs. As dangerous as he is through the air, Griffin can also terrorize opposing defenses on the ground. He rushed for 59 yards against Sam Houston St. and added a rushing touchdown. The dynamic quarter-back will challenge every aspect of Buffalo’s defense. “He does a good job in terms of taking shots down-field with his throwing ability and he is also able to execute in the run game,” said Buffalo head coach Jeff Quinn. “[Containing Griffin] will be a challenge for our defensive players and coaches.” Critics tout Griffin as one of the best quarterbacks in college football and have listed him as a nominee for

almost every quarterback award. After suffering a season-ending ACL injury last year, he has come out on a mission to prove he still is a threat at the position. Senior cornerback Josh Thomas, who grabbed an interception against Rhode Island, has a great deal of respect for Griffin but is not afraid of the hyped-up quarterback. “We’re prepared men-tally and physically, there’s no doubt in my mind,” Thomas said. “Our coaching staff has given us the tools to win the game.” Like Buffalo, Baylor runs a fast-paced spread offense. Baylor head coach Art Briles likes to substitute frequently to keep his players as rested as possible. In the running

Griffin looms in Texas shootoutfo o t ba l l > > u b at bay l or

Courtesy of Baylor AthleticsRobert Griffin (10) will most likely decide the outcome in Saturday’s battle between the Bulls and Bears.

si m p son spe a ks

ANDREW WIKTOR and LAUREN NOSTRO

Editor in Chief and Senior News Editor

Retirement rumors put to rest President Simpson’s decision to retire was not impulsive and did not come as a result of Albany’s actions. Instead, Simpson knew he’d be leaving UB roughly five months ago, but with the Public Higher Educa-tion Empowerment and Innovation Act pending approval, Simpson was reluctant to announce his decision. “The legislature doesn’t dictate my life,” Simpson said. “The fact that it acts one way or another at the end of the day isn’t going to determine what I do. Having said that, if I had the intention of announcing [my retirement] in June, then whatever chance we had of the legislation passing would’ve been lessened. That’s why I stalled – I thought it would help the university.” Simpson announced his retire-ment to the UB Council early on Aug. 30 and informed the public later that day. There was nothing symbolic about his announcement falling on the first day of classes, but instead was just how the timing worked out. Western New York media outlets falsely related Simpson’s retire-ment to the actions of SUNY and claimed that UB 2020 was no longer achievable. “Some parts of the local media have tried to put words in my mouth, saying that I quit because I didn’t like what the legislature did. To think that New York drove me out because I’m disappointed or angry is simply not the case,” Simpson said.

“I’ve worked at other [Association of American Universities] public universities in Illinois, California and Washington, and they’re all a mess [financially]. These are the issues that you take on if you agree to do a job like mine.” As for the claim that UB 2020 will end with Simpson’s departure, the president insisted that the plan is far greater than his contributions. The university will push forward and continue to reach the goals that have been set forth. “I may have helped set up con-ditions to help [UB 2020] move forward and acted to encourage various kinds of activities, but at the end of the day it’s the university’s plan,” Simpson said. “The fact that it’s been supported and adopted by the business community is terrific. All of these things ensure that the plan has viability and staying power that transcends any one individual.”

As an individual, Simpson has future plans of his own.

Simpson set a goal to retire by the age of 60 when he was a college stu-dent. He may be three years behind schedule, but remains excited to pursue other goals.

“I’m 63, which is young enough to do a lot of things but old enough to think about [retirement],” Simpson said. “…I’m interested in pursuing things that are beyond what I’ve done in the past seven years here.”

After leaving Buffalo, Simpson hopes to publish a theoretical review in the field of physiology, sharpen his wood building skills and attack a pile of books that has grown steadily during his tenure at UB. Despite his excitement to return to the West Coast, spend time with his family and accomplish goals, the decision to leave Buffalo has been bittersweet.

Nostaja’s appointment

rescinded

President Simpson has explained his plans for his future, but the future of UB’s leadership remains unclear. Just before Simpson declared his retirement on Aug. 30, UB Coun-cil Chairman Jeremy M. Jacobs announced that Scott D. Nostaja, UB’s senior vice president and chief operations officer, would “serve as interim President following Simp-son’s retirement.” The appointment, however, had not been confirmed according to Simpson. The president explained that with the recommendation of SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher, the SUNY Board of Trustees decides whom to appoint. “First of all, I don’t have the authority or the right or the privi-lege – nor should I – to appoint my successor,” Simpson said. “If we end up needing an interim president it’s not my appointment to make. At the end of the day, the SUNY trustees make the appointment, not me and not Jeremy Jacobs.” There is no timetable for when the trustees will choose an interim president, however a decision must be made before Simpson retires on Jan. 15. Nostaja, who Simpson believes is capable of holding the position, has fallen under heavy criticism since Jacobs’ announcement. Robert Hoeing, associate profes-sor of linguistics and chair of the faculty senate, sent an e-mail to voting faculty members discrediting

Retirement and appointment explained

• see LAW | page 2

“[UB 2020] has viability and staying power that transcends any one individual.”

- John B. Simpson ub president

IT HAS BEGUN  •  The NFL season has started and The Spectrum has weighed in on the year ahead.     Page 8

HOMETOWN BOYS  •  The Goo Goo Dolls released their new studio album, “Something for the Rest of Us”    Page 5

VENGEANCE  •  Ignored during Springfest, Anberlin’s  new album will grab you by the ears.     Page 5

• see FOOTBALL | page 2

Clinton Hodnett / The Spectrum

2 The Spectrum Friday ,  September 10 , 2010

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game, the Bulls must stop senior run-ning back Jay Finley. He racked up 51 yards on only six carries against a Bearkats team that consistently stacked eight or nine players in the box to stop Baylor’s running attack. Finley scored one touchdown in the game on a 44-yard scamper. His ability to strike at any time will force the Bulls to respect the Bears on the ground. On the other side of the ball, the Bulls need to repair the problems

they had on the ground during week one. While Buffalo seemed determined to throw the ball, the running game was practically invis-ible throughout all four quarters. The Bulls averaged a sub-par 3.2 yards per carry for 91 rushing yards. “We certainly need more pro-duction and effectiveness [from the running game],” Quinn said. “If you look at Sam Houston St. and their running game against Baylor, as you can see they didn’t fare too well. So that’s a major emphasis right now by our coaching staff.” Baylor is undefeated against Mid-American Conference opponents in three meetings. One of those games was against the Bulls in 2007 when the Bears beat Buffalo, 34-21. Buffalo recognizes Baylor’s status as a major conference team, but Thomas feels that the only thing that matters is what happens on the field when kickoff occurs. “You don’t necessarily judge a team by the conference they play in or the logo on their helmet,” Thomas said. “We are all playing with the same football and it all depends on how hard you work… It’s the first time since I’ve been here that I’ve seen [such a strong] commitment [to winning] from the team.” The trip to Texas is a homecom-ing for Thomas and seven other Buffalo players. The opening kickoff is set for 7 p.m. on Saturday at Floyd Casey Stadium.

E-mail: sports@ubspectrum.com 

Stopping Griffin is key continued from FOOTBALL page 1

distant businesses as well as govern-ment and public interest sectors. With the impressive number of Super Lawyer graduates and variety of employment areas, current and future UB Law School students have unlimited potential. “[The ranking] sets the bar very high. I also think it gives our stu-dents great confidence to know that

their predecessors have achieved so much,” Ewing said. Since its founding in 1887, the University at Buffalo Law School – the State University of New York system’s only law school – has estab-lished an excellent reputation and is widely regarded as a leader in legal education. This recent ranking solidifies that.

Email: news@ubspectrum.com

SUNY’s lone law school continued from LAW page 1

the appointment of Nostaja. He claimed that the UB Council over-stepped their authority and failed to follow proper due process when appointing the interim president. Additionally, Hoeing mentioned Nostaja’s lack of post-secondary education and challenged his abil-ity to serve as an interim university president. “After intensive conversations with several parties over the last three days, I concur with concerned faculty that the proposed appoint-ment is both illegitimate, due to a complete lack of due process, and inappropriate, due to a lack of

minimal academic qualifications of the candidate,” Hoeing said in an e-mail. Initially, Nostaja was excited to be named interim president and was hopeful that he would earn the job permanently. After criticisms surfaced and the process of appoint-ment was challenged, Nostaja asked that his name not be recommended at this time to the Board of Trustees. “I’ve appreciated the many expressions of support I’ve received from faculty, staff, alumni, and com-munity leaders. At the same time, I recognize that some members of the university would like to have given their views as this recommendation was being considered,” Nostaja said in an e-mail to faculty. “I have asked that my name not be put forward to the Board of Trustees at this time in order to give our faculty, staff and

students the opportunity to pro-vide input into the priorities facing the university, and the qualities, characteristics, qualifications and experiences necessary to fill the post of interim president.” What remains unclear, how-ever, is whether or not Nostaja was wrongfully named interim president preceding Simpson’s announce-ment of retirement. The media was informed that Nostaja would serve as the interim president; however UB officials never had the author-ity to make that decision and claim that they simply recommended a candidate. It’s certain that President Simp-son will be retiring in January, but what remains unclear is who will fill the position when he leaves.

E-mail: news@ubspectrum.com

Simpson’s replacement yet to be determined continued from NOSTAJA page 1

Meg Kinsley/ The SpectrumStudents studying in the Charles B. Sears Law Library may have higher hopes for their future due to UB’s top ranking on the “Super Lawyers” list.

Build the mosqueDon’t let events of 9/11 compromise our values

O p i n i o n716.645.8566 www.ubspectrum.com/editorial

SEPTEMBER 10 , 2010VOLUME 60 NUMBER 04CIRCULATION: 10,000

The views expressed — both written and graphic — in the Feedback, Opinion, and Perspec-tives sections of The Spectrum do not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial board. Sub-mit contributions for these pages to The Spectrum office at Suite 132 Student Union or spectrum-editorial@buffalo.edu. The Spectrum reserves the right to edit these pieces for style or length. If a letter is not meant for publication, please mark it clearly as such. All submissions must include the author’s name, daytime phone number and e-mail address.

The Spectrum is provided free by the Undergraduate Mandatory Activity Fee

Editorial Board

Editor in ChiefAndrew Wiktor

Managing EditorsJoe Paterno David Sanchirico Amanda Woods, asst.

Editorial EditorLuke Hammill

News EditorsLauren Nostro, senior. Jessica Bennett, asst.Brendon Bochacki, asst.David Weidenborner, asst.

Arts EditorsJames Twigg, seniorJameson Butler John Connelly, asst. Vanessa Frith, asst.John Hugar, asst.Nicolas Pino, asst.

Life EditorsJennifer Harb Katie Allen Amanda Jonas, asst.Steve Neilans, asst.Jeff Pelzek, asst.

Sports EditorsMatt Parrino, seniorJacob Laurenti Brian Josephs, asst.Chris Rahn, asst.

Photo EditorsClinton Hodnett, seniorRenee Huo Megan Kinsley.Karen Larkin, asst.Sam Zakalik, asst.

Copy EditorMeghan Farrell Professional Staff

Business ManagerDebbie Smith

Administrative AssistantHelene Polley

Advertising ManagerMarissa Giarraputo

Advertising DesignerChristopher Lonzi

Creative DirectorChris Caporlingua, interim

The Spectrum is represented for national advertising by 360 Youth.The Spectrum offices are located in 132 Student Union, UB North Campus, Buffalo, NY 14260-2100. Telephone: (716) 645-2468. Fax: (716) 645-2766. Copyright 2010 Buffalo, N.Y. The Spectrum is printed by Buffalo Newspress PO Box 648, Buffalo, NY 14240-0648.

3

CHRIS RAHNAsst. Sports Editor

The never-ending debate over the proposed Islamic cultural center to be built near Ground Zero in New York City is getting out of control.

Opponents of the potential building, which is being referred to as a “mosque” because it will contain an area for prayer, claim that the real estate is too close to the site where thousands were killed in terrorist attacks by Muslim extremists nine years ago. The detractors say the mosque shouldn’t be built out of respect for the families of the victims.

The logic of those opponents makes two troubling assumptions.

First, if truly respecting all of the families of the victims is disallowing an Islamic community center, none of the victims could possibly have been Muslim. In reality, however, hundreds of the victims on September 11 were Muslim.

Second, to suggest that building a Muslim com-munity center near Ground Zero has anything to do with the 9/11 attacks is to make a clear connection between Muslims and terrorists. That connection is unfair and more hurtful to Muslims across the world than a community center would ever be to a victim’s family.

If we truly want to show the world that America is a place that accepts and tolerates all religions, creeds, races and nationalities, we must allow the Muslim group build their mosque.

The fact that we are even having this debate, in addition to the disgusting actions of those who have vandalized other mosques across the country and proposed such ideas as “International Burn a Koran Day,” shows that this nation still has problems with prejudice.

Yes, the cowardly terrorists who attacked us on September 11 were Muslim. Those Muslims, however, were extremists who distorted a religion that is truly peaceful. Many Americans profess to be Christian. Should these people also be held accountable for the count-less times throughout history that others have been killed in the name of Christianity? Of course not. After all, the proposed “mosque” will be a multi-faith community center with separate prayer spaces for Muslims, Christians and Jews alike. It will also contain a memorial dedicated to those who were affected by the September 11 attacks. How could a true American oppose a center (officially to be named Cordoba House) that could potentially foster a better understanding and unity with the American Muslim community? Many opponents have acknowledged that, in spite of their own objections, Cordoba House’s planners have the constitutional right to build it. We feel that this fact trumps all others. After all, if we are abandoning our own constitu-tional values as a reaction to the attacks of nine years ago, than the terrorists have secured another victory.

Buffalo named ninth-best midsize collegiate cityDubious ranking,  but Buffalo is better than advertised

• see ANTHONY | page 6

The American Institute for Economic Research has ranked Buffalo as the ninth-best place for college students to live among midsize metro areas ahead of such cities as Nashville, Tenn., Sacramento, Calif., Charlotte, N.C., and Orlando, Fla.

The committee made a distinction between major metropolises, midsize metros, smaller cities and college towns, and grouped each city or town accordingly.

While being ranked ninth among “midsize metro areas” isn’t something to boast too much about, Buf-falo is a good place to be for college students..

Buffalo State College is renowned for its education and arts programs. Canisius College and Niagara University offer solid religious education. Medaille College is a small private school that packs an aca-demic punch, and we all know about the multitude of academic programs here at UB.

Additionally, community colleges in Erie and Niagara counties can provide students with guidance to get a start in the right direction.

The institute used several categories to determine the final rankings. Buffalo scored well in student diversity, largely thanks to the sizeable concentration of international students at UB.

Buffalo’s ranking also increased due to the city’s vibrant arts scene and entertainment district. Stu-dents in the Queen City have many options when it comes to going out on the weekends.

The downtown entertainment district on Chip-pewa Street, easily accessed by the Buffalo subway system that runs through UB’s South Campus and the Canisius College neighborhood, offers many different bars and dance clubs. For a different bar scene, Allen Street and Elm-wood Avenue are spots where students can absorb some of Buffalo’s culture that one might not find elsewhere. The area is also home to numerous art galleries, concert halls and restaurants. Buffalo also offers professional sports, hosts mainstream concerts and is close to world famous Niagara Falls. Those with passports even have easy access to go north of the boarder into Canada. Nevertheless, there are some negative things about Buffalo’s college experience that the committee may have missed. Both UB and Canisius College’s campuses are too spread out. UB is spread across three separate campuses while Canisius’ buildings are scattered throughout the cityscape. This causes the missing feeling of a unified college campus. Also, collegiate sports are a huge part of student life at many schools throughout the country. While athletic programs are improving at UB, Canisius and Niagara, Western New York area schools certainly cannot compete with programs such as Ohio State, Texas or Southern California. Buffalo’s ranking is up four spots from last year’s 13th ranking. We’re still trying to figure out what’s changed.

Please tolerate those affected Pretend you’re a parent. Your daughter is 17 years old and she’s been in a relationship for a couple of months. You and your spouse have met the boyfriend’s parents a few times, and your families get along fairly well. It’s a polite relationship, although they aren’t exactly the kind of people that you would go out of your way to spend time with. One night, a tragedy occurs. The high school couple was out drinking at a party and the boyfriend made a poor decision to drive home. You receive a phone call from the police, notifying you that your daughter is at the hospital in critical condition after being involved in a car crash. Hours later you find out she is dead. The boyfriend walked away from the crash with only a few scratches, however, admitted he was intoxicated while driving. A couple of years pass by and the house next door to you goes up for sale. You hear that the family of the boyfriend wants to purchase the home. Sure, these people have every right to buy that house and the family wasn’t responsible for your daughter’s death, but wouldn’t you feel slightly offended if they moved in right next door to you? I know that I would. If you have picked up a newspaper, surfed the Internet in the past month, or simply have a pulse, I’m sure that you have heard about the proposal to build a Mosque near Ground Zero. In this great country we live in, we give rights and freedoms to everyone. Race, ethnicity, and religion don’t make a difference – everyone is equal. After Sept. 11, 2001, a great majority of Amer-icans associated all Muslim people with the terrorists who were responsible for the attack on the World Trade Center. People were looked at and treated differently just because of the god that they worshipped: sometimes even just because of their skin tone or the clothes they wear. I’m not going to lie: at times I felt this way too. It was a very painful era for America, but we have made great strides since and no longer group all Muslims as terrorists. Still, I question the choice of location. Islamic people have every right to build this Mosque, but does it need to be erected so close to the site of 9/11? Consider my hypothetical situation once more. The same way the parents of your daughter’s boy-friend are associated with the death of your child, many families of the victim’s of the 9/11 attacks think of Muslim terrorists when they remember their loved ones. Of course it’s not correct to think that those who worship in the Mosque have any relationship to the attacks on the WTC, but at the same time, it’s understandable that the plan has sparked controversy. I’m asking supporters of the Cordoba House to please tolerate the feelings of the many Americans who were affected by this tragedy.

E-mail: cdrahn@buffalo.edu

A day in the life

I’m a total fiend. It’s been three classes since I’ve had a smoke.

I feel like Tyrone Biggums.

You all might not realize the extent of the pain and suffering I’m going through right now. I mean, here I am, sitting in the back row of my Funda-mentals of Wellness course, twitching like Tweek from “South Park” and scratching my neck like a crackhead.

UBreathe free? I feel like I’m suffocating.

Let me start at the beginning.

I got to campus today and attended my Canadian Politics class like any other day, feeling like a real champ. Four cups of coffee, two cigarettes and a little bit of [censored by The Spectrum] on the drive up the thruway is enough to have anybody ready to face the rigors of UB – namely learning about our neighbors to the North.

Normally, after class, I’d stop by the Capen Library or post up outside of Starbucks to have another cigarette before the start of my next course.

I’d usually find some of my other cig-smoking buddies there too. We’d talk about stuff that cig-smokers like us normally talk about. You know, like what size of rims to put on a red ’93 Camry or how some jerk-off robbed me on the river by catching a lucky flush when I had him beat before the flop. Safe to say, it was a nice break from Canadian Politics. Anyway, now I can’t do that with these new rules. So I just headed straight to my next class and actually arrived early, which was totally weird. Everyone was just sitting there texting, catching up on the assigned readings or doing their best to avoid eye contact with the rest of the class. I felt left out, so I texted my buddy: “18-inch spinners.”

Despite my lack of nicotine nour-ishment I was doing fine. I still wasn’t feeling as good as I’d normally feel at that time of day, but that was just at the beginning of American Sign Language class. When it was time to leave I wasn’t feeling so hot anymore and started to twitch. I couldn’t even sign the letter “C” without making an obscene gesture. Talk about embarrassing. I then headed to the class I’m in now, Fundamentals of Wellness, but ironically I wasn’t feeling well at all. I resolved that I needed to smoke before I lost my mind. I only had 10 minutes before class started, but I decided I would try and make it off campus to smoke.

f r i day s at i r e

LUCAS ANTHONYSpecial to The Spectrum

4 The Spectrum Friday ,  September 10 , 2010

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t h e g o o g o o d ol l s

ARTS & LIFE

5

Who: James TwiggWhat: Buffalo Bills vs. Miami DolphinsWhen: Sunday at 1 p.m.Where: Ralph Wilson Stadium

Why: Fall semester is back and that means two things. Over-priced textbooks and football season!

T h i s W e e k e n d i n B u f f a l o

A r t s & L i f e716.645.8564 www.ubspectrum.com/arts 716.645.8567 www.ubspectrum.com/life

JOHN HUGARAsst. Arts Editor

The Goo Goo Dolls have become legends in Buffalo. After more than two decades (and several well received albums), the trio has estab-lished themselves as one of the greatest bands to ever come out of the Queen City. Unfortunately, their latest album fails to live up to their legacy. Something for the Rest of Us is a decent, but ultimately disappointing, effort that will please the band’s dedicated fan base but leave most listen-ers wanting more. The biggest problem with the album is its lack of memo-rable hooks. While previous Goo Goo Dolls albums have had countless hit singles, the tracks on Something for the Rest of Us sound vastly simi-lar. No track is terrible, but nothing manages to stand out either. The lead single, “Home,” is a decent tune that fits in fine with the rest of adult contemporary radio, but it lacks the punch of the band’s previous hits like “Long Way Down” or “Here Is Gone.” Matters are not helped by dull ballads like “One Night” and “Nothing is Real.” The

songs are painfully boring and nearly devoid of any personal-ity. For a group that once set themselves apart from the competition, the Goo Goo Dolls did little to separate themselves from similar contemporary bands (e.g. Lifehouse and The Fray) by including these tracks on the album. A rare highlight comes on “Hey Ya.” Not to be mistaken for an Outkast cover, the track is an anthemic ballad on par with “Better Days” or even pop sensation “Iris.” On an all too generic album, “Hey Ya” is one of the few moments when the band actually has an

identity. While the album is an enjoyable listen, it doesn’t give enough to escape the depths of mediocrity. After years of making strong, meaningful music, the Goo Goo Dolls seem content to run with the

pack. Something for the Rest of Us makes it seem all too likely that their best years are finally behind them.

E-mail: arts@ubspectrum.com

By STEVE NEILANSAsst. Life Editor

A Goo Goo Doll is bringing music to the Queen City this Saturday. The eighth annual “Music is Art” festival will be held Sat-urday at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Robby Takac, bassist for the Goo Goo Dolls, created the Music is Art foundation in 2004. According to musicisart.org, the core belief behind the festival is that “students need the opportunity to have their musical voices heard.” “The whole idea is to high-light all genres of local music,” said Tod Kniazuk, executive director for Music is Art. “There is a load of talent in the area, and [the festival] showcases that talent.” Originally slated as a side note to the Allentown Art

Festival, the Music is Art fes-tival has become one of the largest events in Buffalo. Close to 100 bands and artists will perform on six stages around the Alright-Knox. There will also be magicians and events for kids at the festival. “The big deal is that it’s free,” Kniazuk said. “We put this thing on in September instead of June so students are able to make it out.” Music is Art strives for musi-cal variety as well as offering the opportunity for bands to have a chance to be heard. “For every band we accept into the festival, we turn down two or three other bands,” Kniazuk said. “It has nothing to do with them not being good enough, but we like to have new acts every year.”

E-mail: features@ubspectrum.com

Goo Goo Doll showcases local bands

Courtesy of Amy WillardBuffalo-bred John Rzeznik and the Goo Goo Dolls new album will please diehard fans, but fails to deliver on level with their past releases.

Bland Buffalonians

Artist: Goo Goo Dolls

Album: Something forthe Rest of Us

Release Date: August 31

Label: Warner Bros.

Grade: B-

JAMESON BUTLERArts Editor

Remember that band that the audi-ence didn’t give a chance at Springfest ’10? Well, Anberlin is back with a brand new CD that adds on to their already stellar discography. Dark is the Way, Light is a Place is Anberlin’s third album in four years and their fifth of a long career. Long-time fans will quickly notice how the band has kept their base sound while continuing to experiment. After finally getting the recognition

they deserve with their 2008 release, New Surrender, Stephen Christian and his bandmates did not crack under the pressure, creating an album that could continue to garner the band some spotlight. Dark is the Way, Light is a Place starts off with the anthem, “We Owe it To Ourselves.” While the opening track might have a fast tempo, the speed of the album starts to slow down as it progresses. The album’s first single is “Impos-sible,” which is the perfect name for the song. With the insanely catchy guitar riffs and danceable bass line, it is truly

impossible not to at least tap your foot along with the song. The lyrics have always been the focal point of Anberlin and Christian shows he still knows how to use a pen as well as a microphone. In the ballad “You Belong Here,” Christian belts out lyrics about taking a leap of faith. “But, I’ll give you all I have/ It isn’t much/not much at all/ But, a heart that’s not worth breaking/ isn’t worth much/ not at all,” Christian sings. As the album matures, so do the songs. The tail end of the album hides many of the albums best songs. Tracks

like “Art of War” and ‘To the Wolves” will have the listener swaying and fist pumping all in a matter of minutes. Dark is the Way, Light is a Place ends with the dark, but hauntingly beauti-ful, “Depraved.” This heavy electronic song closes out the album with its dark chants that makes the listener pontifi-cate for a minute. While Anberlin was not given the time of day at Springfest, with their release of Dark is the Way, Light is a Place, many people will start paying attention to them.

E-mail: arts@ubspectrum.com

Artist: Anberlin

Album: Dark is the Way, Light is a Place

Release Date: September 7

Label: Universal Republic

Grade: B

Taking a walk on the dark sidea l bu m r e v i e w

JEFF PELZEKAsst. Life Editor

From Saturday Sept. 11 to Tues-day Sept. 14, Lieutenant Amy Pedlow and Assistant Chief Christopher Bar-tolomei from the University Police Department will participate in the ninth annual Tour de Force.

The Tour de Force was originally held as a memorial fundraiser for the families of 9/11 victims. Although the 9/11 benefit reached its targeted goal several years ago, organizers decided

to continue the ride to raise funds for the families of police officers killed in the line of duty each year.

The 250-mile course may seem to be a daunting enterprise, but the two officers seem confident in their ability to conquer the road ahead.

“We’re definitely excited for this year,” said Pedlow, a third-time par-ticipant. “I’m doing it for the families and for the heroes of 9/11… though we have no direct relationship to an on-duty death, that kind of thing affects every police officer.”

Up 43 percent nationwide from last year, on-duty deaths carry a very similar relevance for police officers. Officers from across the country, and several from Canada and Europe, vie for an opportunity to take part.

The tour will begin at the Penta-gon in Arlington, Va., before bikers pedal 107 miles to Rehoboph Beach, Del. After taking a ferry to Cape May, N.J., the group will ride through parts of the Garden State for the next day. The ride will be completed at the police memorial at Battery

Park in Manhattan, N.Y.

The group will also observe a moment of silence in memory of the 9/11 victims on a stop to Ground Zero.

Each Tour de Force rider must raise at least $1,000 in order to par-ticipate. UPD held several raffles at freshman orientation and received generous donations from students and families that amounted to over $4,000 for the cause.

UPD Chief of Police Gerald

Schoenle fully endorses and sup-ports the fundraiser, and shows enthusiasm for its contribution to morale.

“It reflects very well on these officers and UB police that they’re giving their time for other officers in their country,” Schoenle said. “We’re lucky to have Amy and Chris working with us.”

Email: features@ubspectum.com

Remembering the ultimate sacrifice

Who: Vanessa FrithWhat: Curtain Up!When: Friday at 8 p.m.Where: Theater District

Why: It’s opening night for Buffalo’s theaters so you’re bound to take in a good show. At 10 p.m., Main Street closes down for food, dancing and art.

Who: John ConnellyWhat: Resident Evil: AfterlifeWhen: Anytime after Thursday at midnightWhere: Regal Transit Center and Walden Galleria

Why: It was shot in 3D, so it might be the closest thing we can get to a real zombie apocalypse… for now.

Courtesy of Music is Art

6 The Spectrum Friday ,  September 10 , 2010

xxxI didn’t even get down Flint Road before I had to turn around knowing I wasn’t going to make it to class on time. I don’t like being late for class. It might surprise you, but I’m actually serious about my studies. I’m trying to get out of here with my bachelor’s degree as soon as possible so I can become a university president. I had to park in the aptly-named Special Events lot, so being on time wasn’t looking good. I sprinted as fast as I could, but as you can prob-ably guess, I’m not exactly in the best running shape. I gasped my way into class three minutes late and I knew what was coming. My professor is a stickler for punctuality. He got right up in my face. I tried to explain to him that I only had 10 minutes between classes. “Well, who do you think you are?” he barked back at me. “I teach a class 10 minutes before this one and I’ve managed to be on time!” His breat h smelled l ike cigarettes.

E-mail: news@ubspectrum.com

NFC South

Team to watch: New Orleans Saints No team from the NFC South has ever won back-to-back division titles. Barring a major injury to quarter-back Drew Brees, that stat will most likely be thrown out the window in January. Brees is arguably the best quarterback in the league and has more weapons on offense than the Rams did when they were touted as “The Greatest Show on Turf.”

Team to flop: Carolina Panthers Despite boasting offensive talents in wide receiver Steve Smith and running backs DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart, Carolina lost their franchise defensive end in Julius Peppers to free agency. Unless the team’s young players start per-forming immediately, the Panthers will be exploited on the scoreboard.

NFC West

Team to watch: San Francisco 49ers San Francisco has an underrated offense that will look to take the next level. Both Michael Crabtree and former No. 1 overall pick Alex Smith will be in the starting lineup for a full season while Patrick Willis will led an improving defense. Head coach Mike Singletary brings out the best in his players thanks to an explosive attitude.

Team to flop: Arizona Cardinals The Cardinals looked to be a playoff-bound team, but lost four key players and now look to be nothing but ordinary. After the retirement of Kurt Warner, the team lost Anquan Boldin, Antrel Rolle and Karlos Dansby – all vital parts of their Super Bowl team. Matt Leinart, whom was touted as the team’s franchise quarterback, was also released after Derek Anderson won the starting job in training camp.

PREDICTIONS

MVP: 

Aaron Rodgers

Rookie of the Year: (offensive) 

C.J. Spiller

Rookie of the Year: (defensive) 

Gerald McCoy

Super Bowl XLV:  Baltimore Ravens

over New Orleans Saints

E-mail: sports@ubspectrum.com

Ravens predicted as Super Bowl champs

continued from NFL page 8

Smoke this.

continued from ANTHONY page 3

8/31 — Nicholas D. Oliveto was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated with a blood alcohol content of .15% on Main Street.

8/31 — A student was taken to Erie County Medical Center from the Center for the Arts for alcohol poisoning.

8 /31 — Adam C. Gutierrez was arrested and charged with trespassing at the Center for the Arts after being warned to leave.

8/31 – A student was taken to Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital from the University Commons for a seizure.

8/31- A student was taken to Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital from the Center for the Arts for alcohol poisoning. The student was referred to the Student Wide Judiciary.

8/31 — A student was given first aid for heat exhaustion at the Center for the Arts.

8/31 — Multiple laptops were stolen from a vehicle parked in Slee Lot.

8/31 — A student was struck in the face by an unidentified subject at Alumni Arena. 8/31 — A vehicle was struck by an unidentified subject at Augspurger Lot. 8/31 — A student was taken to Erie County Medical Center from Flint Loop for alcohol poisoning. The student was referred to the Student Wide Judiciary.8/31 – A student was struck by multiple unidentified subjects at Coventry Loop. 8/31 — A student was given first aid at the Center for the Arts for feeling ill. 8/31 — A student was given first aid at the Center for the Arts for feeling ill. 8/31 — A sprinkler head at the Lee Entrance was damaged by an unidenti-fied subject. 8/31 — Coffee money was stolen from Wende Hall by an unidentified subject. 8/31 — A credit card was stolen from a student’s wallet at Putnam Way.

8/31 — A bicycle was stolen from Diefendorf Loop by an unidentified subject.

9/1 — A student was harassing a staff member at an office in Bell Hall.

9/1 — An unattended Blackberry was stolen from a laundry room in Pritchard Hall.

9/1 — A vehicle was struck by an uniden-tified subject at Hochstetter Lot.

9/1 — A vehicle was struck by an uniden-tified subject at Cooke Lot.

9/2 — A vehicle was keyed by an uniden-tified subject in Main/Bailey Lot.

9/2 — A student was taken to Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital from the Center for the Arts grounds for stomach pains.

9/2 — A wallet was stolen from an unat-tended purse at an unknown location on North Campus.

9/2 — A student was given first aid for heat exhaustion at UB Stadium.

9/2 — An unattended purse with a credit card inside was stolen from Alumni Arena.

9/2 — A student was harassed by another student at Richmond Dining Hall.

9/2 — Two students were referred to the Student Wide Judiciary for disorderly conduct on Diefendorf Grounds.

9/2 — A vehicle was struck by an uniden-tified subject at the Special Events Lots.

9/2 — A student was taken to Erie County Medical center from Clement Hall for a chin injury.

9/2 — An unattended backpack with a laptop inside was taken from Jacobs Lot.

9/3 — A student harassed another student at an unknown parking lot.

9/3 — A laptop was stolen from an unlocked room in Pritchard Hall by an unidentified subject.

9/3 — A student was taken to Buffalo General Hospital for asthma related problems.

9/3 — A threatening note was left on a bicycle by Frontier Road.

9/3 — A student was taken to Erie County Medical Center from Michael Hall for a burn on their hand.

9/3 — An unknown vehicle was involved in a hit and run in Flint Village.

9/4 — A student was taken to Erie County Medical Center from Wilkeson Quadrangle for alcohol poisoning. The student was referred to the Student Wide Judiciary.

9/4 — A student was taken to Erie County Medical Center from Clement Hall for feeling ill.

9/4 — Marijuana was found on the Wilkeson terrace.

9/4 — Two subjects were referred to the Student Wide Judiciary for alcohol possession in Goodyear Hall.

9/5 — A subject was taken from Main Circle to Erie County Medical Center for alcohol poisoning.

9/5 — A subject at Goodyear Hall was taken to Erie County Medical Center for alcohol poisoning and referred to the Student Wide Judiciary.

9/5 — Constantine J. Lambropoulos was arrested and charged with criminal trespassing at Richmond Quadrangle.

9/5 — A vehicle sunroof was smashed in Abbott Lot.

9/6 — A subject was taken to Erie County Medical Center from their car on Bailey Avenue.

9/6 — A window was smashed at Crosby Hall by an unknown subject.

9/6 — A subject was taken from Win-spear Ave. to Erie County Medical Center and referred to the Student Wide Judiciary.

9/6 — A subject at Goodyear Hall was taken to Erie County Medical Center for alcohol poisoning and referred to the Student Wide Judiciary.

9/6 — A subject was taken to Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital from Mar-shall Court for a broken arm.

9/6 — An unknown subject pulled a false fire alarm at Richmond Quadrangle.

9/6 — A subject was feeling numb at the Audubon Parkway and was taken to Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital.

9/6 — Chace J. Jackson was arrested and charged with 3rd degree assault at Wilkeson Quadrangle.

KATIE ALLENSenior Life Editor

At 8 p.m. on Jan. 27, 2011, Arnold Schwarzenegger will be speaking in Alumni Arena. The Student Association (SA) recently announced California’s 38th governor as the Undergradu-ate Student Choice speaker for this year’s Distinguished Speakers Series. The politician, Hollywood icon, Austrian-American bodybuilder, environmentalist and businessman is anticipated to draw people from all over the Western New York region. Both the SA and the Graduate Student Association will provide free tickets to the lecture for all UB students. Members of the UB com-munity are eligible for discounted tickets while all other tickets may

be purchased at any Ticketmaster location or at the Alumni Arena Box Office.

Email: features@ubspectrum.com

P o l i c e B l o t t e rdist i ngu ish ed spe a k ers

‘Governator’ invades WNY

Photo courtesy of UB News ServicesArnold Schwarzenegger

7 The Spectrum Friday,  September 10 , 2010

Advertise !Call The Spectrum

Advertising at (716) 645 - 2152

CLASSIFIEDSCLASSIFIED ads may be placed at The Spectrum office at Suite 132 Student Union, Amherst Campus. Office hours are from 9:00 - 4:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Deadlines are Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 12:00 for display and 2:00 p.m. for classifieds for the next edition. Weekly rates are $10.00 for the first ten words and 75¢ for each additional word. All ads must be paid in advance. The ad must be placed in person or send a legible copy of the ad with a check or money order for full payment. No ads will be taken over the phone. The Spectrum reserves the right to edit any copy. No refunds will be given on classified ads. Please make sure copy is legible. The Spectrum does not assume responsibility for any errors except to reproduce any ad (or equivalent), free of charge, that is rendered valueless due to typographical errors. Please call 645-2152 for any additional information.

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President John B. Simpson’s retirement announcement nearly two weeks ago rocked the university to its core. Ever since, people have been clamoring for answers to questions regarding the decision, and wonder-ing what ramifications there will be at Buffalo. Flying under the radar in the aftermath of the Simpson announce-ment, however, was Monday’s breaking news that UB Athletic Director Warde Manuel was one of three finalists for the same job at the University of Maryland. Former Army A.D. Kevin Anderson even-tually was given the job, but the possible departure of Manuel from UB was a scary thought.

Unfortunately, UB can no longer hide talent behind the appearance of a losing tradition. The eventual reality of Manuel moving on to bigger and better things is just something Bulls fans will have to come to grips with. Fans were dealt a similar blow at the end of last year when former head football coach Turner Gill took a Big 12 coaching job at Kansas. It is only natural that people move up the ladder in their field, but it doesn’t make the reality any easier to deal with. Buffalo is merely a stepping stone. The football program was lifeless and hopeless when Manuel arrived in August 2005. As the laughingstock of the college football world, the Bulls annually served as the cellar-dweller of the Mid-American Conference and no end seemed to be in sight.

Within 12 months on the job, Manuel had already begun the trans-formation of the athletic program. Manuel knew that hiring Gill would be the perfect fit in the football pro-gram to reverse the culture of losing at UB. His vision for the school went far beyond any previous plan. The crowning achievement for Manuel came in 2008 when the football team captured the school’s first ever MAC Championship. The win garnered national attention and UB finally gained recognition for something other than academics. But Manuel’s achievements have gone beyond the football program as he has turned around other athletic programs. Before the 2009 season, Manuel hired Todd Kress to coach the volley-ball team. For a program in the dumps for so many years, the hiring could rank as the best hire of his career. Before Kress came to Buffalo, the volleyball team struggled to compete in the MAC. In just his first year, the Bulls turned in their best

season since joining the conference and even captured the school’s first ever MAC Tournament victory. The volleyball team is even better this year and Kress has been instru-mental in the change. His recruiting class was sensational and the team is a legitimate threat to win the MAC this season – a notion that would have been laughable two short years ago. As heartbreaking it was to see Gill leave, Manuel hired current head football coach, Jeff Quinn, in what appears to be another job well done. Just one game into his first season, Quinn has rallied Bulls fans and his players have never seemed so energenic and focused on the game of football. In the end, UB will probably have to say goodbye to a great leader and someone who changed the landscape of UB sports forever. But what he accomplished in his time at UB will be appreciated for a long time to come.

S p o r t s716.645.8562 www.ubspectrum.com/sports

2010 Record: 1-0

2009 Record: 4-8 (1-7, Big 12)

Last Meeting: Sept. 22, 2007 Baylor- 34 Buffalo- 21

THREE BEARS TO WATCH…

QB- Robert Griffin III – Baylor’s leader can beat a team with his feet and his arm. He makes great decisions with the football and can win a game single-handedly. Griffin is coming off a knee injury but has shown no signs of being hampered by it. Stopping him will be the number one priority in the Bulls’ defensive gameplan.

TE- Brad Taylor – The senior provides a perfect outlet for Griffin in the passing game. He is a former quarterback and knows where to be to provide Griffin with a safety valve. The Bears have talented wide receivers, but the Bulls must pay attention to Taylor or he could repeat his 69-yard, one touchdown performance from last week.

DE- Tevin Elliot – Elliot is still just a backup freshman, but he looked dominant against Sam Houston St., and could cause havoc for the Buffalo running game. He recorded eight tackles against the Bearkats, two of which were for a loss. The self-proclaimed “Terminator” hopes to see even more action against the Bulls after his solid performance last week.

BUFFALO WILL WIN IF …

The team can force turnovers and run the ball. Last week was a clear indication that the Bulls can throw the pigskin, even if it was against Rhode Island. The key to winning, especially on the road, is displaying a balanced attack. If the defense can force Griffin into a mistake and if the offense can capitalize, the Bulls could leave Texas with their second straight win.

BAYLOR WILL WIN IF …

The Bears’ spread offense is better than the Bulls’. Griffin has to be the best quarterback on the field and lead his team. If he is able to put up points, the fan’s energy in Floyd Casey Stadium should be enough for the Bears to earn a non-conference victory.

PREDICTIONS

This game will be closer than people expect. The Bulls seem to be focused and mentally prepared to compete on the big stage. Of course, saying it and doing it are two completely different things. Freshman running back Branden Oliver has to break out in the game and give the Bulls some production in the running game. In the end, however, I think Griffin will be too much for the Bulls, and carry his team to victory in front of a 40,000-plus Texas crowd.

Bears 34 | Bulls 28Matthew Parrino | Senior Sports Editor

This is the week of answering questions. Were Jerry Davis’ and the wide receivers’ dazzling performances aberrations? Will the running game step up? Despite all the uncertainties regarding Buffalo, one thing remains assured about this game: Robert Griffin III will give the Buffalo defense fits. Buffalo must provide pressure and the defensive backs must play to their capabilities if the Bulls are to stifle Griffin. Buffalo is still a team facing obstacles in regards to adjusting to a new game plan and scheme. I’d be a lot more confident about the team’s chances had this game come in late October.

Bears 31 | Bulls 17David Sanchirico | Managing Editor

Scouting Baylor

MATTHEW PARRINOSenior Sports Editor

colu m n

AFC East

Team to watch: New York Jets With a dynamic one-two punch at running back in Shonn Green and LaDainian Tomlinson, coupled with last season’s top defensive unit, the Jets have their flight set on the Super Bowl in February. Anything else will be a letdown for Jets’ fans.

 Team to flop: Buffalo Bills While it is the obvious choice, it is the only choice. The Bills, at times, looked deplorable on defense throughout the preseason and if they can’t stop anybody, they can’t win games. Rookie C.J. Spiller will be exciting, but inconsistency at the quarterback position will show throughout the season and should result in Buffalo picking early in the draft.

AFC North

Team to Watch: Baltimore Ravens The Ravens added Pro Bowl wide receiver Anquan Boldin and also signed veteran T.J. Houshmandza-deh to accompany Derrick Mason out wide. With the added offen-sive weapons on and emerging star running back Ray Rice, third-year quarterback Joe Flacco should have all the weapons he needs to lead the Ravens deep into the playoffs.

Team to Flop: Pittsburgh Steelers Inexperienced Dennis Dixon is taking over for team-leader Ben Roethlisberger, who is serving a four-game suspension. They have an aging offensive line and wide receiver unit, and the defense isn’t the same one that dominated during the Super Bowl run two seasons ago.

AFC South

Team to watch: Indianapolis Colts With Peyton Manning under center, the Colts are always the favorite to come out on top of the division. Depth at wide receiver gives Manning’s reliable arm more targets downfield. Expect Pierre Garcon and Reggie Wayne to put up big numbers this season.

Team to flop: Jacksonville Jaguars Aside from running back Maurice Jones-Drew, the Jaguars offense is suspect. Quarterback David Garrard continues to disprove the team’s high expectations as his struggles should continue thanks to little help at the receiver position.

AFC West Team to watch: San Diego Chargers The Chargers still have the best quarterback in the division and if they can overcome playing without holdouts Marcus McNeil and Vin-cent Jackson, the team should win the division once again.

Team to flop: Oakland Raiders The Raiders have convinced NFL analysts that they will be the surprise team in the NFL this year. Quarterback issues and a question-able backfield will prove to be too much to overcome.

NFC East

Team to watch: New York Giants Before catching the injury bug last season, the Giants started 5-0 and showed flashes of the team that won the Super Bowl in 2007. They then lost four straight on their way to a disappointing end of the season. However, the Giants are looking to improve defensively and the return of Kenny Phillips will certainly help.

Team to flop: Washington Redskins The team is starting 38-year-old Joey Galloway opposite Santana Moss and defensive nose tackle Albert Haynesworth has thrown fits all offseason after the team switched to a 3-4 defense. The former Pro Bowler, whose big mouth matches his big gut, has given Shanahan little option but to cut down his playing time as the season opens.

NFC North

Team to watch: Green Bay Packers The Packers improved on both sides of the ball during the offseason. Al Harris and Charles Woodson give experience to a young and talented defensive secondary while Aaron Rodgers is coming off a career-high year after throwing for 30 touch-downs and seven interceptions.

Team to flop: Minnesota Vikings After falling one game short of the Super Bowl last season, the Vikings should be hungry to get back to the NFC Championship. But a lack of health on offense will put a halt to Minnesota’s hopes. Favre is battling a bum ankle while the team’s top two receivers, Sidney Rice and Percy Harvin, have their own injury issues.

Source: neworleanssaints.comDrew Brees and the reigning champion New Orleans Saints seek to win back-to-back titles this season.

nat iona l sp ort s

Pigskin Fever The Spectrum’s NFL Preview

• see NFL | page 6

On the website

Join our live chat of UB at Baylor this

Saturday at 7 p.m. online at

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E-mail: matthew.parrino@ubspectrum.com