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(07/06/06 4:00am)
June 28 marked the release of the movie version of one of Comedy Central's most genius shows -- "Strangers With Candy" -- and it's about damn time. Starring Amy Sedaris as the dumb-witted, sex-crazed junkie Jerri Blank, this show captivated the hearts and minds of several million viewers over a three-season period. After six years of hiatus, she's on the big screen along with director/actor Paul Dinello and Stephen Colbert of Comedy Central's popular mock-news program "The Colbert Report." It's about time the trio reclaimed the roles that got them their initial burst of stardom.\nBased on the same lines as after-school specials from the 70's and 80's, the show changed how viewers looked at cheesy morals presented through said TV specials. Some topics covered included eating disorders, mental disorders, monogamy, virginity, and of course, drugs. In the opening theme of the show, Blank claims to be a 42-year-old high school dropout. She was also "a boozer, a user, and a loser" who went to jail a couple times for a variety of things, including prostitution and larceny.\nSedaris plays the role of Jerri Blank like nobody else -- mainly because herself, Colbert, and Dinello all invented their characters together. Sedaris became Jerri Blank for the role, as did Colbert as history teacher Chuck Noblet, and Dinello as the ambiguously gay art teacher Geoffrey Jellyneck. \nUsing the morals as a common ground, each episode played off like a modern version of the classic 70's TV special. The main character would be presented with some socially unacceptable obstacle, and through the course of the show would have to learn a lesson. Traditionally, a common moral would be presented as the lesson. The "Strangers With Candy" morals vary slightly from the originals though: the moral undergoes an immoral and sometimes perverted twist that makes the show gold for viewers. In an episode about anorexia, the audience learns that anorexia is okay, because it will get people to notice you. In yet another episode, this one about sexually transmitted diseases, the moral is that one should not be ashamed of their STD's, but proud of being the "one in a million" that have one.\nAlthough Sedaris, who has recently written a book entitled "I Like You: Hospitality Under the Influence," hasn't done too much since the show was cancelled in 2000, she reclaims her title role in the movie "Strangers With Candy." She's most recently played small roles in big-budget films such as "Elf" (co-starring Will Ferrell) and the movie version of "Bewitched," where she played Gladys, the nosy neighbor of Nicole Kidman's character. In 2005, she also provided her voice for the digital animation movie, "Chicken Little."\nPaul Dinello has also not done much since hiatus from "Strangers With Candy." Other than co-authoring a book with Sedaris and Colbert, titled "Wigfield," he's only appeared on Colbert's "Report" thrice. He played a character named Tad the Building Manager. In most cases, Tad is subjected to Colbert's peer-pressure, which usually ends up negatively for the socially inept Tad.\nThe most successful actor of the three would have to be Stephen Colbert. After ending "SWC" in 2000, he went on to star as himself (although considerably Conservative) in a mockery of "The O'Reilly Factor," called, suitably enough, "The Colbert Report." He's interviewed many famous politicians and celebrities, and has even performed at the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner in April of this year. The whole scenario was perfectly hilarious and awkward at the same time, for Colbert (as the character of Colbert, witty Republican) basically created his own roast of George W. Many of W's trusted officials walked out during the performance, the First Lady spoke her mind to Colbert afterwards, and even W himself seemed to be incredibly peeved about the situation. Even with a rosy red face, W still managed to shake Colbert's hand after the roast.\nSo how did the three manage to jump through so many loopholes to get their acclaimed TV show made into a movie? The world will never know, but at least America will finally get to know exactly how Jerri Blank made it back into high school at Flatpoint High, especially after all the years of being a prostitute, a druggie, and a sex-addicted alcoholic. A few clips of the movie can be viewed on YouTube, and the teaser and actual trailer of the movie can be seen on most movie sites and in the iTunes Music Store. If you want to see the movie, though, you'll probably have to travel, as the nation-wide release is limited to only a few lucky cities, one being Chicago.
(07/05/06 7:24pm)
June 28 marked the release of the movie version of one of Comedy Central's most genius shows -- "Strangers With Candy" -- and it's about damn time. Starring Amy Sedaris as the dumb-witted, sex-crazed junkie Jerri Blank, this show captivated the hearts and minds of several million viewers over a three-season period. After six years of hiatus, she's on the big screen along with director/actor Paul Dinello and Stephen Colbert of Comedy Central's popular mock-news program "The Colbert Report." It's about time the trio reclaimed the roles that got them their initial burst of stardom.\nBased on the same lines as after-school specials from the 70's and 80's, the show changed how viewers looked at cheesy morals presented through said TV specials. Some topics covered included eating disorders, mental disorders, monogamy, virginity, and of course, drugs. In the opening theme of the show, Blank claims to be a 42-year-old high school dropout. She was also "a boozer, a user, and a loser" who went to jail a couple times for a variety of things, including prostitution and larceny.\nSedaris plays the role of Jerri Blank like nobody else -- mainly because herself, Colbert, and Dinello all invented their characters together. Sedaris became Jerri Blank for the role, as did Colbert as history teacher Chuck Noblet, and Dinello as the ambiguously gay art teacher Geoffrey Jellyneck. \nUsing the morals as a common ground, each episode played off like a modern version of the classic 70's TV special. The main character would be presented with some socially unacceptable obstacle, and through the course of the show would have to learn a lesson. Traditionally, a common moral would be presented as the lesson. The "Strangers With Candy" morals vary slightly from the originals though: the moral undergoes an immoral and sometimes perverted twist that makes the show gold for viewers. In an episode about anorexia, the audience learns that anorexia is okay, because it will get people to notice you. In yet another episode, this one about sexually transmitted diseases, the moral is that one should not be ashamed of their STD's, but proud of being the "one in a million" that have one.\nAlthough Sedaris, who has recently written a book entitled "I Like You: Hospitality Under the Influence," hasn't done too much since the show was cancelled in 2000, she reclaims her title role in the movie "Strangers With Candy." She's most recently played small roles in big-budget films such as "Elf" (co-starring Will Ferrell) and the movie version of "Bewitched," where she played Gladys, the nosy neighbor of Nicole Kidman's character. In 2005, she also provided her voice for the digital animation movie, "Chicken Little."\nPaul Dinello has also not done much since hiatus from "Strangers With Candy." Other than co-authoring a book with Sedaris and Colbert, titled "Wigfield," he's only appeared on Colbert's "Report" thrice. He played a character named Tad the Building Manager. In most cases, Tad is subjected to Colbert's peer-pressure, which usually ends up negatively for the socially inept Tad.\nThe most successful actor of the three would have to be Stephen Colbert. After ending "SWC" in 2000, he went on to star as himself (although considerably Conservative) in a mockery of "The O'Reilly Factor," called, suitably enough, "The Colbert Report." He's interviewed many famous politicians and celebrities, and has even performed at the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner in April of this year. The whole scenario was perfectly hilarious and awkward at the same time, for Colbert (as the character of Colbert, witty Republican) basically created his own roast of George W. Many of W's trusted officials walked out during the performance, the First Lady spoke her mind to Colbert afterwards, and even W himself seemed to be incredibly peeved about the situation. Even with a rosy red face, W still managed to shake Colbert's hand after the roast.\nSo how did the three manage to jump through so many loopholes to get their acclaimed TV show made into a movie? The world will never know, but at least America will finally get to know exactly how Jerri Blank made it back into high school at Flatpoint High, especially after all the years of being a prostitute, a druggie, and a sex-addicted alcoholic. A few clips of the movie can be viewed on YouTube, and the teaser and actual trailer of the movie can be seen on most movie sites and in the iTunes Music Store. If you want to see the movie, though, you'll probably have to travel, as the nation-wide release is limited to only a few lucky cities, one being Chicago.
(01/26/06 5:00am)
On Jan. 26, the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, 114 E. Kirkwood Ave., will play host to Bloomington's third-annual PRIDE Film Festival. Started in 2004 by IU arts administration students, the festival has quickly gained popularity in Bloomington. \nTickets can be purchased at the Sunrise box office at the Buskirk-Chumley. Tickets are $8 per screening or $25 for a festival pass. Student-priced tickets are sold for $2 per screening or all films can be seen with the discounted $10 festival pass. The pass gets the holder into all screenings and also into the exclusive PRIDE dance party, to be held on Jan. 27.\nThe first year, 2004, 700 people attended. Last year brought 1,200 viewers, and this year is expected to bring over 1,500 avid film watchers. Running until Jan. 29, this is the first year the festival will last more than two days. There will also be a larger number of movies, animated shorts, documentaries and live-action shorts, allowing more people to be able to relate to more angles.\nSaid to be "a cinematic celebration of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community," the PRIDE Film Festival promises to be a highlight of 2006. A very devoted volunteer committee authorized each selection playing. \nSuzanne Strick, marketing director for Buskirk-Chumley, says viewers can expect more engaging and provocative films from this festival. \n"What people can expect at this festival is a wider range of perspectives and films."\nThere are many aspects to this year's PRIDE. The main feature is the film lineup, but also included in the festival is a panel discussion on queer cinema, hosted at Buskirk-Chumley by the IU Department of Communication and Culture. One of the newer portions to the festival is the PRIDE Dance Party. It is estimated that about 400 guests will be in attendance at the dance, along with four previous Miss Gay Bloomingtons.\n"The party is going to be fabulous," Strick says, who is ecstatic about the coming festival. \nFor some students, the PRIDE Film Festival not only brings together a collection of films, but also a sense of community and campus. \n"I think it's a great opportunity for everyone to get to come out and share a few nights together seeing creative art that we all can enjoy," says Lucas Elliott, president of OUT (the student-run GLBT group on campus). "I feel that the film festival is an important event for the IU campus because it shows more of a GLBT presence in the community, and I think it fosters understanding through entertainment." \nGraham Skinner, a freshman studying communication and culture, enjoys film festivals in general.\n"They introduce me to new ideas and help strengthen my own views on different subjects in this community," Skinner says. "Not only that, but I enjoy meeting so many people who are interested in the same things as myself"
(01/26/06 1:05am)
On Jan. 26, the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, 114 E. Kirkwood Ave., will play host to Bloomington's third-annual PRIDE Film Festival. Started in 2004 by IU arts administration students, the festival has quickly gained popularity in Bloomington. \nTickets can be purchased at the Sunrise box office at the Buskirk-Chumley. Tickets are $8 per screening or $25 for a festival pass. Student-priced tickets are sold for $2 per screening or all films can be seen with the discounted $10 festival pass. The pass gets the holder into all screenings and also into the exclusive PRIDE dance party, to be held on Jan. 27.\nThe first year, 2004, 700 people attended. Last year brought 1,200 viewers, and this year is expected to bring over 1,500 avid film watchers. Running until Jan. 29, this is the first year the festival will last more than two days. There will also be a larger number of movies, animated shorts, documentaries and live-action shorts, allowing more people to be able to relate to more angles.\nSaid to be "a cinematic celebration of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community," the PRIDE Film Festival promises to be a highlight of 2006. A very devoted volunteer committee authorized each selection playing. \nSuzanne Strick, marketing director for Buskirk-Chumley, says viewers can expect more engaging and provocative films from this festival. \n"What people can expect at this festival is a wider range of perspectives and films."\nThere are many aspects to this year's PRIDE. The main feature is the film lineup, but also included in the festival is a panel discussion on queer cinema, hosted at Buskirk-Chumley by the IU Department of Communication and Culture. One of the newer portions to the festival is the PRIDE Dance Party. It is estimated that about 400 guests will be in attendance at the dance, along with four previous Miss Gay Bloomingtons.\n"The party is going to be fabulous," Strick says, who is ecstatic about the coming festival. \nFor some students, the PRIDE Film Festival not only brings together a collection of films, but also a sense of community and campus. \n"I think it's a great opportunity for everyone to get to come out and share a few nights together seeing creative art that we all can enjoy," says Lucas Elliott, president of OUT (the student-run GLBT group on campus). "I feel that the film festival is an important event for the IU campus because it shows more of a GLBT presence in the community, and I think it fosters understanding through entertainment." \nGraham Skinner, a freshman studying communication and culture, enjoys film festivals in general.\n"They introduce me to new ideas and help strengthen my own views on different subjects in this community," Skinner says. "Not only that, but I enjoy meeting so many people who are interested in the same things as myself"
(01/12/06 5:00am)
It has been an exhausting week of no longer being able to sleep in, being out late to catch up with friends and getting back into the daily grind of class. And now, all students want to do is relax. What better way to unwind by renting a movie?\nTo avoid pricey rentals and hidden late fees here are some alternative places to rent your favorite movies without the hassle or venture beyond your favorite genre and try something new. \nMovie Gallery\nThree Locations:\n• 2612 E. 3rd St.\n• 1202 S. Walnut St.\n• 4683 West Richland Plz.\nHere is an example of a successful movie rental business with dual locations. Movie Gallery has a specific late fee policy. Unlike Blockbuster, which charges its customers money per day and per rental, Movie Gallery charges the late fee to the renter's account. The movie is then rented again for however long it was originally rented. This gives the viewer an extra day or two (in some situations a week) for a minimal charge.\nMovie Gallery has a plethora of deals. A video renter can rent a free gallery movie, excluding new releases, Friday through Sunday. \nMany question why a business would send customers out with a movie free of charge. \nJason, an employee of Movie Gallery on South Walnut says "It was the company's original idea to increase traffic." \nStudents also have the option to rent two movies and rent one free of charge on Wednesdays.\nTop Ten Video\n• 413 S. Walnut St.\nTop Ten Video is a favorite movie rental store for many students on campus, including freshman Kate Roseman, who is always ecstatic about the movie rental location. \n"I really like the idea of an independent chain in Bloomington, especially one with five-day rentals and good deals," Roseman says, who is a lover of free movie rentals. \nOn any given day of the week, if a customer walks into Top Ten Video and rents three videos he or she will also be permitted to rent two others completely free of charge. \nJust like Movie Gallery's late fee policy, Top Ten also uses the renewal method. Each movie is a five-day rental, if the customer forgets to return the film on the day it's due back, Top Ten will charge for another five-day rental giving the customer enough time to finally finish the movie.
(01/12/06 2:28am)
It has been an exhausting week of no longer being able to sleep in, being out late to catch up with friends and getting back into the daily grind of class. And now, all students want to do is relax. What better way to unwind by renting a movie?\nTo avoid pricey rentals and hidden late fees here are some alternative places to rent your favorite movies without the hassle or venture beyond your favorite genre and try something new. \nMovie Gallery\nThree Locations:\n• 2612 E. 3rd St.\n• 1202 S. Walnut St.\n• 4683 West Richland Plz.\nHere is an example of a successful movie rental business with dual locations. Movie Gallery has a specific late fee policy. Unlike Blockbuster, which charges its customers money per day and per rental, Movie Gallery charges the late fee to the renter's account. The movie is then rented again for however long it was originally rented. This gives the viewer an extra day or two (in some situations a week) for a minimal charge.\nMovie Gallery has a plethora of deals. A video renter can rent a free gallery movie, excluding new releases, Friday through Sunday. \nMany question why a business would send customers out with a movie free of charge. \nJason, an employee of Movie Gallery on South Walnut says "It was the company's original idea to increase traffic." \nStudents also have the option to rent two movies and rent one free of charge on Wednesdays.\nTop Ten Video\n• 413 S. Walnut St.\nTop Ten Video is a favorite movie rental store for many students on campus, including freshman Kate Roseman, who is always ecstatic about the movie rental location. \n"I really like the idea of an independent chain in Bloomington, especially one with five-day rentals and good deals," Roseman says, who is a lover of free movie rentals. \nOn any given day of the week, if a customer walks into Top Ten Video and rents three videos he or she will also be permitted to rent two others completely free of charge. \nJust like Movie Gallery's late fee policy, Top Ten also uses the renewal method. Each movie is a five-day rental, if the customer forgets to return the film on the day it's due back, Top Ten will charge for another five-day rental giving the customer enough time to finally finish the movie.
(01/09/06 5:13am)
It began in 2001 in the Netherlands. Then in 2003, it happened in Belgium. In June and July of 2005, Spain and Canada joined the ranks, respectively. It happened last month in England, and starting this year, South Africa will also be counted as one of the few. \nBut what is "it?" Not only that, but why hasn't "it" happened in America yet? If all of these other cool countries can have "it," why can't America? It seems simple enough. We like to take over everything else, why can't we take this?\nWhat I'm speaking about, of course, is same-sex marriage. On Dec. 21, England wrote into law that same-sex couples and their families would be able to have the same rights as married couples. Sir Elton John was married that very day to his long-time lover David Furnish. Not only that, but he married Furnish at Windsor's town hall -- the same place Prince Charles married Camilla Parker Bowles back in April 2005, clearly stating that, for once, same-sex couples are being treated as equals.\nComing a long way from its apartheid days, South Africa climbs aboard the same-sex marriage train this year. Once a country that was famous because of its discrimination, on Dec. 1, the country's highest court ruled that South Africa would allow gay marriage beginning in 2006. I think that it definitely says something amazing about a country that once separated black and white to embrace the colors of the rainbow. \nI don't know, but isn't it about time America jumped on the bandwagon? As more and more of the world begin to accept the GLBT community as a legit subculture, it seems as though America, as an individual political state in the world, shuns itself more and more from the idea. \nThere is an endless cycle with this idea, though, because America, as a society in the world, is becoming more and more accepting of the homosexual lifestyle. It's an accepted norm to party and experiment in college. It's not frowned upon anymore for very heterosexual Americans to have had their fair share of homosexual experiences. Also, you see the acceptance on the tube everyday, whether you use a satellite, cable, digital cable, or even an antenna: a gay sitcom, or a sitcom with lovable gay characters. With "Will & Grace" on NBC, "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy" on Bravo and "Queer As Folk" on Showtime, America's television stations are saying, "It's OK to be gay!"\nSo I guess what I don't understand is this -- if America is becoming more and more accepting of the GLBT community, why does it appear as though the opposite is the reality? The reason could possibly be that our own government officials are no longer representing the people, but representing themselves. "We the People ..." headlines the U.S. Constitution. It was written for all the people; it wasn't written just for the peoples' representatives.\nHow has America not legalized same-sex marriage? Doesn't the U.S. government realize yet that in order to be truly free, one has to have the same rights as one's neighbor?
(12/08/05 5:00am)
Sporting a cover that closely resembles a "Grand Theft Auto" game case, Emerson Rose introduces a new sound to the rock & roll lineup of this millennium. With lyrics, sounds and an attitude that cleverly mix music from the days of classic rock and the days of now, Emerson Rose gives the listener a feeling of familiar nostalgia -- of his or her days as a child, growing up with parents who listen to rock music on the radio. With 12 great songs, this album is a must-have for anybody interested in new rock.\nThe second song on the album, "Good Morning Love," sounds as though it could be the first single. Boasting memorable lyrics and an upbeat tempo, "Good Morning Love," is quite an addictive hit. Sporting lyrics such as, "Good morning love/it's a brand new day/so what what what/you wanna do now," the song has easy and addictive lyrics that will keep the song on your mind for quite a while.\n"Diamonds On Our Shoes," is a song that could remind the listener of a classic rock song. It has very simple lyrics about just "walkin' down the road/with the diamonds on our shoes." \nA fine finish to the album is the last track, "Cowboy Song." The actual song itself starts off sounding as though it's going to be a western song, but then begins sounding very different from the rest of the album, yet same at the same time. The same bass and electric guitar are playing, along with the drums and the voice of the singer, but the way they play is incredible. It's like the band mixed country western with rock and got a new genre.\nWith their unique mix of sounds, Emerson Rose takes over your senses and leads you into a land where simple things in life are once again the topic of the songs, and where the band is about the music and not the money.
(12/08/05 2:26am)
Sporting a cover that closely resembles a "Grand Theft Auto" game case, Emerson Rose introduces a new sound to the rock & roll lineup of this millennium. With lyrics, sounds and an attitude that cleverly mix music from the days of classic rock and the days of now, Emerson Rose gives the listener a feeling of familiar nostalgia -- of his or her days as a child, growing up with parents who listen to rock music on the radio. With 12 great songs, this album is a must-have for anybody interested in new rock.\nThe second song on the album, "Good Morning Love," sounds as though it could be the first single. Boasting memorable lyrics and an upbeat tempo, "Good Morning Love," is quite an addictive hit. Sporting lyrics such as, "Good morning love/it's a brand new day/so what what what/you wanna do now," the song has easy and addictive lyrics that will keep the song on your mind for quite a while.\n"Diamonds On Our Shoes," is a song that could remind the listener of a classic rock song. It has very simple lyrics about just "walkin' down the road/with the diamonds on our shoes." \nA fine finish to the album is the last track, "Cowboy Song." The actual song itself starts off sounding as though it's going to be a western song, but then begins sounding very different from the rest of the album, yet same at the same time. The same bass and electric guitar are playing, along with the drums and the voice of the singer, but the way they play is incredible. It's like the band mixed country western with rock and got a new genre.\nWith their unique mix of sounds, Emerson Rose takes over your senses and leads you into a land where simple things in life are once again the topic of the songs, and where the band is about the music and not the money.
(12/01/05 7:08pm)
Nearly ten years have passed since the original "RENT" debuted on Broadway, and now, it's gathering momentum as an old and new favorite among many people. A soon-to-be, if not already, beloved musical, "RENT" was written by Jonathan Larson and in 1996, it went to Broadway. If you begin listening to the soundtrack and expect it to sound something along the lines of "Chicago" or "Les Mis," you'll be greatly surprised. "RENT" is a rock opera, and Larson's lyrics amplify the theme of love. Based on Puccini's "La Bohème," the musical, movie, and lyrics are about love and making it through life with the most miniscule resources. Taking place in New York City's East Village, it follows eight friends through one year.\nThroughout the new movie version of the songs, you'll discover quite a few deletions. The biggest and most noticeable deletions are that of the answering machine. Some of the comic relief in the original cast recording of "RENT" came from the answering machines. We all grew to love Mark's Jewish mother yelling at him through the machine, and got to know Lexxy Darling (a minor character) through the messages.\nAlso, you'll notice other small deletions, like shortened songs. Some lyrics that used to be sung are done so no longer. One example is in "La Vie Bohème," while Mark is speaking to the host at the café. In the original recording, he sings with the host, "You sit all night, you never buy/That's a lie, that's a lie/I had a tea the other day/You couldn't pay/Oh yeah." In the movie, they speak those lines, and it's small details like that which can be important to some people.\nOther than the miniscule removals, it is almost better than the original cast recording. The additions of Rosario Dawson as Mimi and Tracie Thomas as Joanne are actually good. Dawson's voice, now raspier and lower, is a welcome change. Thomas' singing can be very high or very low, depending on whether or not the situation calls for it, and her voice can challenge Whitney Houston's. The rest of the original cast is back (Anthony Rapp as Mark, Adam Pascal as Roger, Jesse L. Martin as Tom Collins, Wilson Jermaine Heredia as Angel, Idina Menzel as Maureen, and Taye Diggs as Benny), and they sure do shine. Each brings their own unique presence to the big screen and to the soundtrack. So be sure to shell out a few of your own rent dollars to get your own copy.
(12/01/05 7:06pm)
Returning once again to her roots, Madonna again surprises the world with a CD worth listening to. Flaunting the title "diva" in more ways than one, she co-writes and co-produces every single song on the album. Madge takes over the airwaves with her new single, "Hung Up." It's the first single from the album, and one of the most memorable songs you'll ever hear. Borrowing music from ABBA's "Gimme Gimme Gimme," this song will keep dancers and clubbers wanting more.\nMost of the songs on the new album are guaranteed dance hits,including, "Sorry," which is bound to be the next single. Including a sample from The Jacksons' "Can You Feel It," this is Madonna's angsty song on the album. Some lyrics include, "I don't want to hear/I don't want to know/Please don't say you're sorry." Telling from the lyrics, it's safe to say that we won't need to say we're sorry when we finish this whole album.\nThe album does take a serious twist, though, when the new track, "Isaac" plays. The lyrics claim, "Wrestle with your darkness/Angels call your name/Can you hear what they are saying?/Will you ever be the same?" and include a beautiful Jewish chant mixed with Madonna's greatest and most powerful lyrics written in a very long time. The mingling of these ingredients makes for a very thoughtful yet invigorating dish.\nAnother song that seems to have an obvious meaning is "Push," which is apparently about her husband, Guy Ritchie. It's nice to see that she doesn't thank herself for her success, but for the people that support her. Most pop artists today claim that they got to where they are because they worked themselves hard enough, but Madonna reassures that there's got to be someone driving the artists (in this case, herself) to be the best they can be.\nMadonna uses dance beats and a very disco feel to make this CD the wonder that it is. Mixing that classic dance-diva-from-the-seventies sound with the futuristic techno sound makes a perfect mix for Madonna's latest quest to take over the pop charts. Evidently, she did something right, as Confessions On A Dance Floor is soon to be a staple dance disc. Madge has got us all "Hung Up" on her.
(12/01/05 5:00am)
Returning once again to her roots, Madonna again surprises the world with a CD worth listening to. Flaunting the title "diva" in more ways than one, she co-writes and co-produces every single song on the album. Madge takes over the airwaves with her new single, "Hung Up." It's the first single from the album, and one of the most memorable songs you'll ever hear. Borrowing music from ABBA's "Gimme Gimme Gimme," this song will keep dancers and clubbers wanting more.\nMost of the songs on the new album are guaranteed dance hits,including, "Sorry," which is bound to be the next single. Including a sample from The Jacksons' "Can You Feel It," this is Madonna's angsty song on the album. Some lyrics include, "I don't want to hear/I don't want to know/Please don't say you're sorry." Telling from the lyrics, it's safe to say that we won't need to say we're sorry when we finish this whole album.\nThe album does take a serious twist, though, when the new track, "Isaac" plays. The lyrics claim, "Wrestle with your darkness/Angels call your name/Can you hear what they are saying?/Will you ever be the same?" and include a beautiful Jewish chant mixed with Madonna's greatest and most powerful lyrics written in a very long time. The mingling of these ingredients makes for a very thoughtful yet invigorating dish.\nAnother song that seems to have an obvious meaning is "Push," which is apparently about her husband, Guy Ritchie. It's nice to see that she doesn't thank herself for her success, but for the people that support her. Most pop artists today claim that they got to where they are because they worked themselves hard enough, but Madonna reassures that there's got to be someone driving the artists (in this case, herself) to be the best they can be.\nMadonna uses dance beats and a very disco feel to make this CD the wonder that it is. Mixing that classic dance-diva-from-the-seventies sound with the futuristic techno sound makes a perfect mix for Madonna's latest quest to take over the pop charts. Evidently, she did something right, as Confessions On A Dance Floor is soon to be a staple dance disc. Madge has got us all "Hung Up" on her.
(12/01/05 5:00am)
Nearly ten years have passed since the original "RENT" debuted on Broadway, and now, it's gathering momentum as an old and new favorite among many people. A soon-to-be, if not already, beloved musical, "RENT" was written by Jonathan Larson and in 1996, it went to Broadway. If you begin listening to the soundtrack and expect it to sound something along the lines of "Chicago" or "Les Mis," you'll be greatly surprised. "RENT" is a rock opera, and Larson's lyrics amplify the theme of love. Based on Puccini's "La Bohème," the musical, movie, and lyrics are about love and making it through life with the most miniscule resources. Taking place in New York City's East Village, it follows eight friends through one year.\nThroughout the new movie version of the songs, you'll discover quite a few deletions. The biggest and most noticeable deletions are that of the answering machine. Some of the comic relief in the original cast recording of "RENT" came from the answering machines. We all grew to love Mark's Jewish mother yelling at him through the machine, and got to know Lexxy Darling (a minor character) through the messages.\nAlso, you'll notice other small deletions, like shortened songs. Some lyrics that used to be sung are done so no longer. One example is in "La Vie Bohème," while Mark is speaking to the host at the café. In the original recording, he sings with the host, "You sit all night, you never buy/That's a lie, that's a lie/I had a tea the other day/You couldn't pay/Oh yeah." In the movie, they speak those lines, and it's small details like that which can be important to some people.\nOther than the miniscule removals, it is almost better than the original cast recording. The additions of Rosario Dawson as Mimi and Tracie Thomas as Joanne are actually good. Dawson's voice, now raspier and lower, is a welcome change. Thomas' singing can be very high or very low, depending on whether or not the situation calls for it, and her voice can challenge Whitney Houston's. The rest of the original cast is back (Anthony Rapp as Mark, Adam Pascal as Roger, Jesse L. Martin as Tom Collins, Wilson Jermaine Heredia as Angel, Idina Menzel as Maureen, and Taye Diggs as Benny), and they sure do shine. Each brings their own unique presence to the big screen and to the soundtrack. So be sure to shell out a few of your own rent dollars to get your own copy.
(11/03/05 5:00am)
Hailing out of Chicago, the band Healthy White Baby will be playing at Second Story Nov. 4. The three-member band boasts sounds of alternative rock, and the name comes from a line in the Cohen brothers' "Raising Arizona." Lead singer, songwriter and guitarist Danny Black pulls lead vocal duty and the other two members, Laurie Stirratt and Ryan Juravic, provide instrumentals and backup vocals. Black took time out of HWB's touring schedule to chat with us about the band, their influences and their eponymous album. \nWEEKEND: How did you and Laurie come to decide to start a band?\nDanny Black: Laurie moved to Chicago and we found ourselves both working at The Hideout, this great Chicago bar. We drank and listened to songs together. It seemed the obvious thing to do.\nWK: I realize that you are the dominating feature of this album. Is there a reason for this?\nDB: That's very astute of you to pick up on that. Well, most of the songs on the record were all written/arranged prior to Ryan and Laurie joining, so there were some parts that needed to be played how I wrote them. I'm sure on the next record, which will be done in March, they'll have their meat hooks all over the songs.\nWK: What were some of your influences growing up?\nDB: Unfortunately, I grew up in the 80s. Thank God for the classic rock radio stations that played the same 42 songs. That's where I found CCR (Creedence Clearwater Revival), Cream, (Led) Zeppelin, The Doors, which led to Howlin' Wolf, Ledbelly, John Hurt and Otis Redding. Then I heard the Velvet Underground. Then I found a Hank Williams 24 Golden Hits in an apartment and was changed by that. Woody Allen movies turned me on to Louis Armstrong and jazz. Then this crazy girl who was from Indiana gave me Tom Waits' Frank's Wild Years and that blew me away! I thought that was a whole new kind of music in a time when I thought that there couldn't be a new kind of music.\nWK: On the album, there is a very awesome yet angsty song called "Soul." What exactly was the revelation for this song? \nDB: Thank you very much. The only thing I can say about the song is I'd just gotten out of an extremely destructive relationship and I even stopped drinking to clear my head. I told myself there is no fucking way I'm ever getting myself into a relationship like that again; I'll kill myself first. Then four months later I ended up in an even worse relationship. Now it's funny, though.\nWK: The last song on the album, "Home," takes quite a turn from the first nine angsty songs. Did you mean to do that?\nDB: Yes, I meant to do that. I'm very happily married now, which worked out well because I was really sick of writing those depressing songs about misery and deception, but I still wanted to release those songs. I'd been experimenting with writing happy songs. It was a foreign thing to do but I just listened to a lot of Paul McCartney songs and I think I got the hang of it. "Home" fit in musically at the end of the record and I also wanted to end the record on a good note, because I'm in a good mood now.
(11/03/05 3:18am)
Hailing out of Chicago, the band Healthy White Baby will be playing at Second Story Nov. 4. The three-member band boasts sounds of alternative rock, and the name comes from a line in the Cohen brothers' "Raising Arizona." Lead singer, songwriter and guitarist Danny Black pulls lead vocal duty and the other two members, Laurie Stirratt and Ryan Juravic, provide instrumentals and backup vocals. Black took time out of HWB's touring schedule to chat with us about the band, their influences and their eponymous album. \nWEEKEND: How did you and Laurie come to decide to start a band?\nDanny Black: Laurie moved to Chicago and we found ourselves both working at The Hideout, this great Chicago bar. We drank and listened to songs together. It seemed the obvious thing to do.\nWK: I realize that you are the dominating feature of this album. Is there a reason for this?\nDB: That's very astute of you to pick up on that. Well, most of the songs on the record were all written/arranged prior to Ryan and Laurie joining, so there were some parts that needed to be played how I wrote them. I'm sure on the next record, which will be done in March, they'll have their meat hooks all over the songs.\nWK: What were some of your influences growing up?\nDB: Unfortunately, I grew up in the 80s. Thank God for the classic rock radio stations that played the same 42 songs. That's where I found CCR (Creedence Clearwater Revival), Cream, (Led) Zeppelin, The Doors, which led to Howlin' Wolf, Ledbelly, John Hurt and Otis Redding. Then I heard the Velvet Underground. Then I found a Hank Williams 24 Golden Hits in an apartment and was changed by that. Woody Allen movies turned me on to Louis Armstrong and jazz. Then this crazy girl who was from Indiana gave me Tom Waits' Frank's Wild Years and that blew me away! I thought that was a whole new kind of music in a time when I thought that there couldn't be a new kind of music.\nWK: On the album, there is a very awesome yet angsty song called "Soul." What exactly was the revelation for this song? \nDB: Thank you very much. The only thing I can say about the song is I'd just gotten out of an extremely destructive relationship and I even stopped drinking to clear my head. I told myself there is no fucking way I'm ever getting myself into a relationship like that again; I'll kill myself first. Then four months later I ended up in an even worse relationship. Now it's funny, though.\nWK: The last song on the album, "Home," takes quite a turn from the first nine angsty songs. Did you mean to do that?\nDB: Yes, I meant to do that. I'm very happily married now, which worked out well because I was really sick of writing those depressing songs about misery and deception, but I still wanted to release those songs. I'd been experimenting with writing happy songs. It was a foreign thing to do but I just listened to a lot of Paul McCartney songs and I think I got the hang of it. "Home" fit in musically at the end of the record and I also wanted to end the record on a good note, because I'm in a good mood now.
(10/27/05 4:00am)
"It's just a jump to the left, and a step to the right; put your hands on your hips and bend your knees in tight; now it's the pelvic thrust that really drives you insane." Do you know what these are instructions for? If you're a hardcore "Rocky Horror Picture Show" fan, you know exactly what they are. They're instructions on how to do "The Time Warp," a dance that the cast of the movie performs. If you find yourself in a theater that's playing "Rocky Horror", then it would be very wise to know these steps. This Saturday you'll have the chance to try and show your skills when it comes to the "Warp," at a public viewing of "Rocky Horror Picture Show" at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater.\nFor $6 you will be able to watch the movie and receive a bag of "goodies," which are the materials needed throughout the movie to make it a truly interesting night. Past goodies have included toilet paper, rice, newspaper and toast. Other fun things will be provided. If you're new to the Rocky experience, then 9 p.m. is the time to show up. This is suggested, as "virgins" (those who have never been to a public showing) will need to be introduced to the world of "Rocky Horror." At this initiation, newcomers will be taught when to yell certain phrases, when to use their provided props and how to get their money's worth. It's also highly suggested that anybody attending dress up for the occasion. That is, if you dress up as the main character (Dr. Frank-n-furter), you should wear a corset, some fishnet stockings, excessive eye make-up and basically just try your hardest to look like a transvestite from Transsexual, Transylvania. \nIn the 30 years since its 1975 release, "Rocky Horror" has gained cult status despite its poor box office results. As soon as it began to get popular, it became an instant cult classic. News of this movie spread quickly across the country and across England. After its terrible opening weekend and committing its own big-screen suicide, "Rocky Horror" appeared to be dud. What singer, songwriter, playwright and actor Richard O'Brien didn't know was that 30 years later, towns from Bloomington to New York would show the movie late at night to packed houses. O'Brien's box office flop would become one of Hollywood's biggest cult classics.\nIn the film, Tim Curry ("It," "Scary Movie 2") plays the lovable antagonist, Dr. Frank-n-furter. He is accompanied by the movie's do-good "protagonists," Brad Majors (Barry Bostwick) and Janet Weiss (Susan Sarandon). Bostwick is best known for his role as the childish mayor on Spin City, and Sarandon is an Oscar winner for her role in the movie "Dead Man Walking." There are five side characters that seem to be gaining popularity in the Rocky Horror world. They are Riff Raff (O'Brien), Eddie (Meat Loaf), Rocky (Peter Hinwood), Columbia (Nell Campbell) and Magenta (Patricia Quinn). \nThe premise of the movie is simple. A newly engaged couple (Bostwick & Sarandon) that attempts to visit an old professor, but they get lost along the way. They end up at a creepy mansion. Before discovering Dr. Frank-n-furter's Frankenstein Place they were moral and proper. Naturally, mayhem ensues and Brad and Janet are, ahem, changed.\n"Rocky Horror Picture Show" is being played just in time for Halloween, and is also a fundraiser for a new theater that is operating out of Buskirk-Chumley. Cardinal Stage Theatre, run by artistic director Randy White. It's been at least 10 years since Rocky Horror has last been publicly shown in Bloomington, and it's about time Bloomington de-virginizes yet again.\nFreshman Andrea Wilson claims that going to a public viewing is preferred. "It's funnier because real people are acting as the characters in unison to the movie," she says. "You seriously get people who know every single word in the movie and can act out every single scene. It's all very musical, and you meet people who have been doing this every Saturday night for years." \nEven The Facebook has groups dedicated to "Rocky Horror." One of the groups, "The OFFICIAL Rocky Horror Picture Show Fan Club, Bloomington, IN Chapter," has more than 250 members and is dedicated to educating other about the movie. The second group, "Rocky Horror Picture Show" is smaller, with only 30 members and is described as, "a group for RHPS fans to talk about their obsessions, fave characters, etc., and to possibly plan trips to live shows." \nThe showing will be at 9:30 p.m., with the "de-virginizing" beginning at 9 p.m. Tickets will be $6 for a costumed customer and $8 for the more passive (and uncostumed) filmgoer.
(10/27/05 3:05am)
"It's just a jump to the left, and a step to the right; put your hands on your hips and bend your knees in tight; now it's the pelvic thrust that really drives you insane." Do you know what these are instructions for? If you're a hardcore "Rocky Horror Picture Show" fan, you know exactly what they are. They're instructions on how to do "The Time Warp," a dance that the cast of the movie performs. If you find yourself in a theater that's playing "Rocky Horror", then it would be very wise to know these steps. This Saturday you'll have the chance to try and show your skills when it comes to the "Warp," at a public viewing of "Rocky Horror Picture Show" at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater.\nFor $6 you will be able to watch the movie and receive a bag of "goodies," which are the materials needed throughout the movie to make it a truly interesting night. Past goodies have included toilet paper, rice, newspaper and toast. Other fun things will be provided. If you're new to the Rocky experience, then 9 p.m. is the time to show up. This is suggested, as "virgins" (those who have never been to a public showing) will need to be introduced to the world of "Rocky Horror." At this initiation, newcomers will be taught when to yell certain phrases, when to use their provided props and how to get their money's worth. It's also highly suggested that anybody attending dress up for the occasion. That is, if you dress up as the main character (Dr. Frank-n-furter), you should wear a corset, some fishnet stockings, excessive eye make-up and basically just try your hardest to look like a transvestite from Transsexual, Transylvania. \nIn the 30 years since its 1975 release, "Rocky Horror" has gained cult status despite its poor box office results. As soon as it began to get popular, it became an instant cult classic. News of this movie spread quickly across the country and across England. After its terrible opening weekend and committing its own big-screen suicide, "Rocky Horror" appeared to be dud. What singer, songwriter, playwright and actor Richard O'Brien didn't know was that 30 years later, towns from Bloomington to New York would show the movie late at night to packed houses. O'Brien's box office flop would become one of Hollywood's biggest cult classics.\nIn the film, Tim Curry ("It," "Scary Movie 2") plays the lovable antagonist, Dr. Frank-n-furter. He is accompanied by the movie's do-good "protagonists," Brad Majors (Barry Bostwick) and Janet Weiss (Susan Sarandon). Bostwick is best known for his role as the childish mayor on Spin City, and Sarandon is an Oscar winner for her role in the movie "Dead Man Walking." There are five side characters that seem to be gaining popularity in the Rocky Horror world. They are Riff Raff (O'Brien), Eddie (Meat Loaf), Rocky (Peter Hinwood), Columbia (Nell Campbell) and Magenta (Patricia Quinn). \nThe premise of the movie is simple. A newly engaged couple (Bostwick & Sarandon) that attempts to visit an old professor, but they get lost along the way. They end up at a creepy mansion. Before discovering Dr. Frank-n-furter's Frankenstein Place they were moral and proper. Naturally, mayhem ensues and Brad and Janet are, ahem, changed.\n"Rocky Horror Picture Show" is being played just in time for Halloween, and is also a fundraiser for a new theater that is operating out of Buskirk-Chumley. Cardinal Stage Theatre, run by artistic director Randy White. It's been at least 10 years since Rocky Horror has last been publicly shown in Bloomington, and it's about time Bloomington de-virginizes yet again.\nFreshman Andrea Wilson claims that going to a public viewing is preferred. "It's funnier because real people are acting as the characters in unison to the movie," she says. "You seriously get people who know every single word in the movie and can act out every single scene. It's all very musical, and you meet people who have been doing this every Saturday night for years." \nEven The Facebook has groups dedicated to "Rocky Horror." One of the groups, "The OFFICIAL Rocky Horror Picture Show Fan Club, Bloomington, IN Chapter," has more than 250 members and is dedicated to educating other about the movie. The second group, "Rocky Horror Picture Show" is smaller, with only 30 members and is described as, "a group for RHPS fans to talk about their obsessions, fave characters, etc., and to possibly plan trips to live shows." \nThe showing will be at 9:30 p.m., with the "de-virginizing" beginning at 9 p.m. Tickets will be $6 for a costumed customer and $8 for the more passive (and uncostumed) filmgoer.
(09/15/05 4:00am)
"Ouch," you cry, as your free hand slaps the mosquito that just bit you. Regretting that you forgot to bring bug spray, you go to light the fire as you realize you've also forgotten another crucial element to your camping experience -- matches. If only you would have planned out this trip, things wouldn't be going so awry. With careful planning and consideration to your camping experience, you can keep yourself from making these miniscule yet important mistakes.\nIf you are a camping connoisseur, you'll be happy to know that southern Indiana offers some of the best campgrounds in the Midwest. From Brown County State Park, to McCormick's Creek, it's more difficult to find an area where you can't camp. \nBrown County State Park\nIndiana's largest state park, Brown County State Park is an ideal location for camping. Open every season, Brown County is a mecca for artists, photographers and campers. If your camping experience has to include hiking and sightseeing, camp here in the fall. As the leaves are turning colors from green to red, yellow, orange and brown, Brown County attracts people from all over the world who want to experience the beauty of this state park. Pay only a $4 fee at the gate (everybody pays it to get into the park), and you can spend all day exploring beautiful Brown County State Park. The prices to camp here vary. For electric sites, it's $19 per night Sunday through Wednesday, and $23 per night Thursday through Saturday and holidays. For the non-electric sites, the prices are $13 per night, Sunday through Wednesday, and $16 per night, Thursday through Saturday and holidays. For camping groups of five or more, there are discounted group sites for only $10 per night, any night of the week. The park also has a horse trail, and you can opt to go on the trail with one of the groups for $12.50. Usually, the horse trails take 45 minutes to trek. \nThere are plenty of camping spots in Brown County, but if you don't have a tent, that's fine. You can rent one of Brown County's log cabins. The state park has two different cabin sizes for different sized groups of people. For a larger group of people, a family-sized cabin is available for $108 per night. If you have a smaller group of people, then the regular cabins will appease you for about $65 per night. Along with camping, there are other things to do at Brown County. Charlene Taylor, account clerk at Brown County State Park, said, "We have a lot of nice hiking trails. We also have two lakes that you can fish in." But do beware, for you are not allowed to swim in those lakes. "You can't swim in them, but you can fish with a license," Taylor explained. Even though the park is open all year, the water facilities are turned off on November 1 and don't get turned back on until March. The good thing about that is that the camping fee is reduced to half the original price.\nMcCormick's Creek\nMcCormick's Creek is Indiana's first state park, and it's still going strong. This park is open all year, and has the same rates as Brown County State Park. The $4 gate fee is also collected. McCormick's Creek seems to be the most popular camping ground for students here at IU. Freshman Ashley Woollen usually goes camping with her family and friends. The reason she chooses McCormick's Creek instead of Brown County State Park is because "it seems to be a lot less strict than Brown County. We just want to hang out and camp, and Brown County is too strict on all the rules there." Woollen said the outdoor activities are a lot more fun there also. \n"It was so much fun with the crazy hiking trails, fun horseback riding and spelunking," she recalled. So, if you're looking for a place to just hang out and camp, McCormick's Creek State Park would be the right place to just kick back.\nMonroe Lake Camping\nIf you're more of a swimming camper, then Lake Monroe has some camping sites for you. There are two beaches on the lake where you can swim, and a different section of the lake is set aside for low-wave activities, such as paddling and fishing. The prices are the same as the previous campsites, and in the winter, you can even ice fish! There is also hiking trails, volleyball courts and waterskiing.\nGet the gear\nOne of the best places to rent camping gear is at the Outdoor Adventures office in the Indiana Memorial Union. The prices are very cheap, especially if you're a student. If you don't have a tent, then the OA has three different sizes for you to choose from: 2-person, 3-person or 5-person tents. If you're a student, the prices for one-night rentals are $8.40, $9.80 and $11.20, respectively. You can save money by renting them for two or three nights. The OA also has sleeping bags, lanterns, coolers, water bottles, ponchos and other things that would be fun to take on your camping trip. There are other places in Bloomington to get camping gear, but definitely for a higher price. Check out any sporting goods stores or large retailers.\nCamping can be fun if you have the right materials and are completely prepared. At Outdoor Adventures, Skippy Baker, desk staff manager, warns, "Just always remember to bring raingear!" Indiana weather changes quickly, and it can rain on a day that was forecasted to be lovely. Also, be sure to bring bug spray, especially this time of year. Bugs are out mating right now, so be prepared. So be careful but have fun, and remember the OA staff's personal motto: We do it outdoors!
(09/15/05 3:26am)
"Ouch," you cry, as your free hand slaps the mosquito that just bit you. Regretting that you forgot to bring bug spray, you go to light the fire as you realize you've also forgotten another crucial element to your camping experience -- matches. If only you would have planned out this trip, things wouldn't be going so awry. With careful planning and consideration to your camping experience, you can keep yourself from making these miniscule yet important mistakes.\nIf you are a camping connoisseur, you'll be happy to know that southern Indiana offers some of the best campgrounds in the Midwest. From Brown County State Park, to McCormick's Creek, it's more difficult to find an area where you can't camp. \nBrown County State Park\nIndiana's largest state park, Brown County State Park is an ideal location for camping. Open every season, Brown County is a mecca for artists, photographers and campers. If your camping experience has to include hiking and sightseeing, camp here in the fall. As the leaves are turning colors from green to red, yellow, orange and brown, Brown County attracts people from all over the world who want to experience the beauty of this state park. Pay only a $4 fee at the gate (everybody pays it to get into the park), and you can spend all day exploring beautiful Brown County State Park. The prices to camp here vary. For electric sites, it's $19 per night Sunday through Wednesday, and $23 per night Thursday through Saturday and holidays. For the non-electric sites, the prices are $13 per night, Sunday through Wednesday, and $16 per night, Thursday through Saturday and holidays. For camping groups of five or more, there are discounted group sites for only $10 per night, any night of the week. The park also has a horse trail, and you can opt to go on the trail with one of the groups for $12.50. Usually, the horse trails take 45 minutes to trek. \nThere are plenty of camping spots in Brown County, but if you don't have a tent, that's fine. You can rent one of Brown County's log cabins. The state park has two different cabin sizes for different sized groups of people. For a larger group of people, a family-sized cabin is available for $108 per night. If you have a smaller group of people, then the regular cabins will appease you for about $65 per night. Along with camping, there are other things to do at Brown County. Charlene Taylor, account clerk at Brown County State Park, said, "We have a lot of nice hiking trails. We also have two lakes that you can fish in." But do beware, for you are not allowed to swim in those lakes. "You can't swim in them, but you can fish with a license," Taylor explained. Even though the park is open all year, the water facilities are turned off on November 1 and don't get turned back on until March. The good thing about that is that the camping fee is reduced to half the original price.\nMcCormick's Creek\nMcCormick's Creek is Indiana's first state park, and it's still going strong. This park is open all year, and has the same rates as Brown County State Park. The $4 gate fee is also collected. McCormick's Creek seems to be the most popular camping ground for students here at IU. Freshman Ashley Woollen usually goes camping with her family and friends. The reason she chooses McCormick's Creek instead of Brown County State Park is because "it seems to be a lot less strict than Brown County. We just want to hang out and camp, and Brown County is too strict on all the rules there." Woollen said the outdoor activities are a lot more fun there also. \n"It was so much fun with the crazy hiking trails, fun horseback riding and spelunking," she recalled. So, if you're looking for a place to just hang out and camp, McCormick's Creek State Park would be the right place to just kick back.\nMonroe Lake Camping\nIf you're more of a swimming camper, then Lake Monroe has some camping sites for you. There are two beaches on the lake where you can swim, and a different section of the lake is set aside for low-wave activities, such as paddling and fishing. The prices are the same as the previous campsites, and in the winter, you can even ice fish! There is also hiking trails, volleyball courts and waterskiing.\nGet the gear\nOne of the best places to rent camping gear is at the Outdoor Adventures office in the Indiana Memorial Union. The prices are very cheap, especially if you're a student. If you don't have a tent, then the OA has three different sizes for you to choose from: 2-person, 3-person or 5-person tents. If you're a student, the prices for one-night rentals are $8.40, $9.80 and $11.20, respectively. You can save money by renting them for two or three nights. The OA also has sleeping bags, lanterns, coolers, water bottles, ponchos and other things that would be fun to take on your camping trip. There are other places in Bloomington to get camping gear, but definitely for a higher price. Check out any sporting goods stores or large retailers.\nCamping can be fun if you have the right materials and are completely prepared. At Outdoor Adventures, Skippy Baker, desk staff manager, warns, "Just always remember to bring raingear!" Indiana weather changes quickly, and it can rain on a day that was forecasted to be lovely. Also, be sure to bring bug spray, especially this time of year. Bugs are out mating right now, so be prepared. So be careful but have fun, and remember the OA staff's personal motto: We do it outdoors!