Few people like the circus as much as David M. Earle. He likes it so much that he is studying to become an expert on the subject.

Currently Earle teaches an American Studies course focusing on the sideshow and other cultural oddities.

In his own words, Earle believes modern American society and the history of the country can be explained by the odds and ends one finds in the sideshow.

Studying the circus is Earle’s passion.

“The space of the sideshow is to show how the norm in today’s society is reinforced by sensationalism or spectacle,” he said, “I draw a parallel between that and today’s culture.”

Earle said he focuses his lectures on what society considers to be abnormal. He then uses the information to determine what is considered to be “normal” in America.

“What I’m interested in is what constitutes a freak,” Earle said.

Throughout the semester, Earle has used sources such as the movie Freak from 1933, pulp magazines, paperbacks and modern texts. His students explore subjects ranging from tattoos to Michael Jackson to bodybuilders.

“It all forces students to re-evaluate what we consider normal and challenge those things,” Earle said.

Earle, 35, said he has been collecting comic books since he was 12.

He received his B.A. in literature from Case Western Reserve in Cleveland, Ohio and spent about eight years traveling and bartending before deciding on his course of study.

Earle said he spent time in various locations in Europe and the United States and eventually did graduate work at the University of London, Cleveland State University and UM.

He will return to Cleveland State in the spring to teach and work on his thesis but will defend his dissertation in Miami in April. His thesis deals with much of what his class deals with: American history, pop culture and the way Americans construct images of themselves through the lens of the American sideshow.

“The sideshow is so obviously a construction, so obviously marketing and so obviously fake,” he said. “You can learn a lot about culture through what society considers ‘different.'”

Jillian Bandes can be contacted at jillianbandes@hotmail.com.

Dear Hurricane,

I never seem to have enough time. While everyone else seems to be enjoying college, all I can do is stress about my next test, my next meeting or when my next paper is due. I know I might have taken on too many responsibilities, but I love all I do on campus. Short of giving up sleep or petitioning for a 36-hour day, what can I do to get everything done and still be able to have fun?

Sincerely,
Too Much Work

Dear Too Much Work,

First of all, drop your back pack, sit down and take a deep breath. Time is an issue for everyone, and one of the greatest challenges in college is to learn to manage your day. Learning some time management skills may help you get all of your work done and still have fun.
Begin by setting priorities. Determine your top priorities, activities and schoolwork [projects, papers or tests] that will receive the most attention. Set priorities using the three Rs – requirement, results and reward. What is required of me? What gives the greatest results? What gives the greatest reward? For instance, maybe your favorite class is biology and you are carrying an A. You can probably focus less on the five-point lab that is due at the same time as your 50-point sociology paper. Other tips are as follows:
Plan your days by using a planner or “to-do” lists.
Organize test dates and study hours.
Break big jobs down into smaller, more manageable tasks:
Remove distractions such as TVs, phones, web surfing, etc.
Avoid procrastinating and reward yourself when you finish a task.
Each day, schedule time to relax and for study breaks.
Watch what you tell yourself. If you change your “Isn’t it awful?” to “I’m going to do the best I can,” you’ll greatly reduce exam anxiety.
Even days that go perfectly can still leave us stressed. Stress is natural, normal and even useful. Although stress can be a positive motivational force, too much of it can drive us nuts. So, back to the beginning of my answer: take a DEEP BREATH. Take two! Physiological studies indicate that if you calm the body, you calm the mind.

Also, take the edge off your stress by practicing the general principles of wellness. Eat light healthy meals, get at least six hours of sleep per night and exercise three times per week. Be sure to schedule time to stop at Starbucks, take a run in the Wellness Center or see a movie. Remember, if you don’t calm down and treat yourself well, you won’t be able to do your best. Study hard, but as Van Wilder says: “Try not to take life too seriously – you might not get out alive.”
Need some help? Every Tuesday at 1 p.m. in the Counseling Center [Building 21-R] there is a stress management class that teaches relaxation, meditation and visualization techniques. Use the class as a break in your busy day, and then take those techniques out on campus with you.
The Counseling Center has a variety of other services that can help you with issues dealing with little things to big things. You can check them out at www.miami.edu/counseling-center.

Sincerely,
Peter Maki

Peter Maki is a psychobiology major, member of C.O.P.E. and president of Sigma Chi.

To submit questions or comments to
Hurricane Health Watch, contact um_newspaper@yahoo.com.

On Nov. 5 the UC was transformed into a hair a salon, where five “Locks of Love” hair stylists worked from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to cut the hair of more than 20 volunteers. Locks of Love is a non-profit organization that benefits needy children under the age of 18 who that suffer from permanent hair loss.

The organization provides them with hairpieces made entirely from human hair.

According to the organization’s website, most of the hairpiece recipients are children who suffer from a rare illness called alopecia areata. Other causes include burns, cancer treatments and other conditions that cause permanent hair loss.

Since its inception in 1997, over 1,000 children have received their help.

“Locks of Love is an organization we believe in. We sponsor it to promote awareness and donate time,” said Jessi Rowen, senior and president of LINK.

One of the many donors was Aruna Airan, financial affairs administrator for the UC Department of Financial Records.

This is the second time she has donated her hair in two years.

“I always believed in volunteering. Last year I donated, and this year, too, and I will do it again once it grows back,” Airan said.

Airan also brought her daughter, Ritu, along to the event, motivating her to donate as well.

“It’s for a good cause, and I’d rather cut my hair for something useful rather than having the hair go to waste,” Ritu said.

In order to be eligible to donate, hair must be at least six inches long, though 10 or more inches is preferred.

According to the Locks of Love website, these hair prostheses help the children restore their self-esteem and their confidence, enabling them to face the world and their peers.

Freshman Amanda Perez donated her hair and is happy to help someone less fortunate.

“One of the reasons I’m donating my hair, is because I know I can cut my hair and it’ll grow back, but these children will never grow hair again,” Perez said. “They lost their hair forever – I didn’t.”

Locks of Love is expected to return next semester.

“Locks of Love is a good reason to get a cut, and a good reason to wait,” said Leif Schjeide, the only guy spotted donating hair.

For more information on how to donate hair, visit www.locksoflove.org

Vanessa Krause can be contacted at v.krause@umiami.edu.

Members of the armed services who have lost their lives since the 9/11 terrorist attacks were honored on Veterans’ Day by the UM College Republicans. The memorial featured the name, rank and branch of service, as well as the location and date of death, of each service member up to and including those who were killed when an army transport helicopter was shot down by hostile fire on Nov. 2.

For Pierre Gunnaurd, Chairman of the College Republicans, the decision to have a memorial honoring these fallen service members was important.

“Rarely in public, and even less on campus, do people really recognize the amazing service that these soldiers have done for our country,” Gunnaurd said. “Even though this is only one day in the year, it’s really important to recognize the sacrifice of these men and women.”

Corrine Williams, first vice-chair for the UM College Republicans, shared Gunnaurd’s sentiment.

“We wanted to show how much those who have sacrificed their lives for our country mean to us,” Williams said. “So we made up this display in order to bring awareness to the student body. A lot of people don’t even know it’s Veterans’ Day.”

Approximately 450 names compiled from an official Department of Defense press releases were displayed on the Rock for students to view. No differentiation was made for rank or branch of service or even circumstances of death.

All 54 members of the Army and Navy who died as a result of the terrorist attack on the Pentagon were the very first names on the list.

According to organizers, many of the deaths were from hostile fire in areas like Iraq and Afghanistan.

Milton Grey, sophomore, appreciated the connection with 9/11.

“I like the fact that the memorial has specifically mentioned September 11,” Grey said. “I think they should do this more often.”

Junior Slava Borshchukov also appreciated the connection.

“It’s the first time I’ve seen something since 9/11 that’s dedicated to the military services,” Borshchukov said. “These are the actual people that fought for and defended our country in Iraq and Afghanistan and took the initiative to stop terrorism.”

Part of the display also highlighted the joint sacrifices of all branches of the service and included the flags of all four armed services as well as the American flag.

The Navy recruiting command for the Southeast United States and Caribbean donated a Navy flag for use in the memorial. The Air Force Honor Guard detail based at Homestead Air Force Base donated that service’s standard.

According to organizers, the main theme of the memorial that they wanted students to walk away with was the sacrifice of the individuals whose names appeared on the display.

Most students who visited the memorial did just that.

“I think it’s a really beautiful thing to do,” Natalie Rico, senior, said. “It’s important to acknowledge people who have given their lives for our country, and it gives you a good feeling to see that.”

Scott Wacholtz can be reached at aramis1642@hotmail.com

Library elevator out of service

Because of its recent unreliable performance, the Kone elevator located in the main lobby of the library will remain out of service until necessary repairs are made. People requiring elevator service will be able to use the Brockway Hall Elevator to access the second and third floors.
When accessing the library through Brockway Hall, all University of Miami Community library users must show their ‘Cane Cards to the library staff person manning the elevator. When exiting the library by way of Brockway Hall elevator, all library materials must be checked out at the Circulation Desk in the main lobby. All handbags, satchels, briefcases, book bags, computer cases and bags of any sort must be cleared through the security exit gate in the main library lobby. Please pardon the inconvenience while the necessary repairs are made.

‘Ibis’ seeks contributing writers

The Ibis yearbook is in need of writers. The theme of the book this year is school spirit, and the staff want to include as many voices and reactions as possible in the book. The Ibis covers anything and everything that takes place on campus and even off campus, like summer blockbusters or the World Series.
Everyone is encouraged to submit their stories, even if they think it is not something that would be included. The stories are usually 250 to 300 words, but it is also okay if the articles are more. There are plenty of assignments that need to be covered, and stories printed in the yearbook are considered published work, so it looks great on resumes. The Ibis yearbook wins awards every year – why not be a part of it? All quotes and stories can be sent to ibiswriter@hotmail.com or dropped off at the yearbook office in UC 229. Include your name, year, and an e-mail address.

Holiday Hope Tree needs gifts for underprivileged children

The Butler Volunteer Services Center is celebrating all the holidays by giving you a chance to buy a disadvantaged child a gift. Holiday Hope Tree information can be picked up at the University Center Information Desk.

Artists wanted for A Week for Life

Calling All Artists! A Week for Life is having an art display as part of opening ceremonies this semester and would like you to take part in it! A Week for Life takes place from Nov. 17 through 22 this fall and would like the week to start off with a bang.

TODAY

Check out the 2003 Homecoming Parade, Pep Rally, Boat Burning and Fireworks! The festivities begin at 7 p.m. Stanford Drive is the best place to see the parade and then head over to the University Center patio for the rest of the night’s events.

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 16

Interested in research? Want to learn more about what research other undergrads are doing? Come to the Undergraduate Conference for Research in Psychology from 12 to 2:30 p.m. Check out oral and poster presentations on cutting-edge research in psychology by your fellow undergrads. Free food will be provided. For more information or to RSVP, contact Jose Rodriguez at 305-284-3303.

MONDAY NOVEMBER 17

FUNDAY Group Leader Applications are due in the Volunteer Services Center (UC 240) by 5 p.m. Group Leaders are responsible for facilitating a group of student volunteers and special citizens through a fun-filled day of events. FUNDAY 2004 will be Saturday, Feb. 21, 2004. Be sure to apply for this exciting volunteer opportunity. For more information, contact b.bludgus@umiami.edu.

Be sure to pick up your free Quit Kit at the Wellness Suite between 8:30 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. as part of The Great American Smokeout.

Homecoming concludes with Closing Ceremonies at 12 p.m. on the Rock.

TUESDAY NOVEMBER 18

Adopt a smoker and attend the Quit Cold Turkey Luncheon for The Great America Smokeout. Just “adopt” a smoker and attend a free turkey luncheon in the Wellness Center classrooms from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. Call 305-243-3209 to RSVP.

UM students can attend the Ring’s Violet production free of charge on at 8 p.m. Violet is a toe-tapping musical journey of hope and healing told through the story of a severely disfigured young woman who travels by bus across the South in 1964 to be healed by a TV evangelist. This contemporary score is rich with gospel, rock, country and rhythm and blues. The production is directed by Michael McElroy, who received a Drama Desk nomination for his performance in the original New York production of Violet. Arrive by 7:30 p.m., and don’t forget your ‘Cane Cards! For more information, call the box office at 305-284-3355 or log on to www.miami.edu/ring .

The Wesley Foundation invites you to attend Successful Interviewing and Resume Techniques at 8 p.m. Chad Naylor, regional recruiting supervisor for Enterprise Rent-a-Car, will present the forum. Refreshments will be served.

CAC presents a Sneak Peek of Gothika at 9 p.m. at Cosford Cinema.

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 19

The Great American Smokeout continues with Cigarette Trade-In Evening at the Wellness Center Atrium from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Trade your cigarettes for a UM visor.

CAC presents Pirates of the Caribbean at 8 and 10:30 p.m. at Cosford Cinema.

THURSDAY NOVEMBER 20

It’s Cigarette Trade-In Day in the UC Breezeway from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Trade your cigarettes for a UM visor.

HP presents Patio Jams with One Drop from 12 to 1:30 p.m. on the UC Patio.

Don’t miss Thirsty Thursday at the Rat from 7 to 10 p.m.

The UM Society of Composers and the Society of Composers National Student Conference present a concert at 8 p.m. in Clarke Hall.

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21

There are many poetry slams on this campus, but Afrocentria is the only performance slam where everyone is welcome to share all talents, in all languages, from all over the world with no anxiety. It is the only place to find food, performances and a local band that performed at this year’s World Series, all for free. Don’t miss it at 7:45 p.m. on the UC Rock. For more info visit www.miami.edu/studorgs/asu.

Don’t miss the UM Society of Composers and the Society of Composers National Student Conference concert at 2 p.m. in Gusman Hall and at 8 p.m. in Clarke Hall.

Hurricane Productions presents Belly Bust hosted by Lav Luv and headlined by Finesse at 7 p.m. at the Rat.

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 22

The ‘Canes Chess Club invites you to participate in a chess tournament in the I-Lounge at 12:30 p.m. Entrance fee is free from members and $6 for non-members. Win cash prizes! For more information, contact caneschessclub@yahoo.com.

UM Society of Composers and the Society of Composers National Student Conference present two more concerts at 2 p.m. in Clarke Hall and at 8 p.m. in Gusman Hall.

The Islamic Society of UM [ISUM] held its second annual Fast-a-Thon to earn money for the Daily Bread Food Bank, raising over $1800.

Local business and families donated $1 or more for each of the 309 non-Muslim participants.

“It was awesome to get so many more students this year than last year,” said Minal Ahson, junior and fast-a-thon coordinator.

According to Sahar Ullah, president of ISUM, every dollar donated will provide six meals to Miami’s homeless.

“The whole idea is that you get hungry for change,” Ullah said.

The fast-a-thon coincides with the month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset every day, abstaining from food, drinks, water, cigarettes and even from getting angry and cussing.

“You are fasting to remember those who don’t have food,” Ullah said

During Ramadan, Muslims wake early in the morning to have a pre-dawn breakfast called suhoor. At the end of the day they take their Iftar meal, which typically includes dates, fresh fruits, appetizers, beverages and dinner.

Later in the evening, Muslims attend special nightly Tarawih prayers at their local Masjud. Each night during Ramadan, approximately one-thirtieth of the Quran is recited in the Tarawih prayers so that the entire scripture is recited in the course of the 29 or 30 days of the month.

Although Muslims fast for the entire month, participants fasted only for one day.

“I eat everyday, so if I can go one day without eating so that someone who doesn’t can eat, that its worth it,” Amy Collins, sophomore, said.

Participants said they found a greater appreciation for material things through fasting.

“It’s amazing how we take [food] for granted,” Jasmine James, sophomore, said. “You never think about not having food.”

They also used the experience to learn about Muslim culture.

“One of the beauties of UM is that we have so many cultures represented,” Mike Johnston, senior, said. “Doing something like this helps me experience something other than the traditional Burger King.”

Others said they participated to learn about Islamic culture.

“I wanted to learn more about the Muslim faith and culture, given the current circumstances,” Danny Alvarez, senior, said.

“It’s a good way to dispel misconceptions,” Erica Shinholser, senior, said.

Although the participants survived the fast, they say they faced many challenges along the way.

“I was in an office that had amazing chocolates on the desk that I always eat,” Johston said. “While I was fasting, I took one, unwrapped it, and was about to eat it when I remembered.

“It definitely took some will power.”

Ahson said she appreciates the efforts of the participants.

“It was nice to see students want to do good,” Ahson said.

Leigha Taber can be contacted at l.taber@umiami.edu.

UM has taken steps to ensure students are aware of potential problems that may arise during the large protests that will take place in downtown Miami during the Free Trade Area of the Americas [FTAA] summit Nov. 17-21.

“It’s our responsibility to educate and advise our students of potential problems,” Dr. Pat Whitely, vice president for Student Affairs, said. “We have placed two ads in The Miami Hurricane and will be using IBIS NEWS to advise students to proceed with caution.”

UM urges students to be aware that the summit will yield traffic delays, suspended Metrorail services and street closures.

The FTAA is a result of the 1994 Summit of the Americas held in Miami in which preliminary steps were taken to unite the economies of Americas and the Caribbean, excluding Cuba.

Negotiations began right after the completion of NAFTA in 1994 and are to be completed by 2005. Currently the FTAA is comprised of 34 ministers representing their respective regions working toward constraint-free trade.

Despite the efforts of these governments to establish a free trade area, many do not want to see its completion.

Many organizations, such as Stop the FTAA, use their websites to organize protesters against the FTAA.

It is these protesters that have prompted UM to advise students of the potential dangers in downtown Miami while the FTAA meets.

UM police said they are well-prepared to handle any situations that may arise.

“Our officers have been trained with the appropriate tactics for these situations, and we have also acquired new equipment to help us insure the safety of students,” Henry Christensen, director of Public Safety, said.

Christensen could not comment on the specifics of the tactics, training or equipment for reasons of security.

According to administration, UM will remain open during the FTAA summit, although some students feel the impact of the summit will affect the campus directly.

“I think we will have traffic and possible protests near campus by students,” Michael Borchetta, junior, said. “Protests could possibly be on campus or near it as well.”

Professor Ambler Moss, a UM expert on the FTAA, said that there are pros and cons to the FTAA.

“There are always winners and losers in meetings like this one,” Moss said. “Labor unions and environmental groups think they could be negatively impacted by the FTAA.”

Professor Moss went on to explain that the agriculture industry here in Florida could be negatively affected by the establishment of a free trade area agreement between the Americas.

“Brazilian oranges could be imported under the agreement, and that would take away income from Florida orange growers,” Moss said.

Moss also said there are economic advantages to the FTAA.

“Exporting brings money by creating a need for more port workers,” he said. “Exporting creates employment and boosts the economy.”

For more information on the FTAA go to www.ftaa-alca.org. For updates on issues regarding the summit, call the UM rumor control hotline at 305-284-5151.

The Miami Hurricane will continue to follow up on the FTAA as the summit progresses.

Ernesto Zaldivar can be contacted at e.zaldivar@umiami.edu.