The DA 04-18-2016

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THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

“Little good is accomplished without controversy, and no civic evil is ever defeated without publicity.”

da

Monday April 18, 2016

Volume 128, Issue 132

www.THEDAONLINE.com

BOG talks about potential budget cuts by corey mcdonald staff writer @coreymacc

Legislative stagnation in Charleston, as well as other economic factors, is raising questions about how West Virginia University will cope with the estimated $270 million budget shortfall for the 2017 fiscal year and about how to maintain the faculty necessary to sustain the University’s new accolade as an R1 research institute. The WVU Board of Governors, during its meeting on Friday, was given a legislative update from Rob Alsop, WVU’s vice president for le-

gal and governmental affairs and entrepreneurial engagement, about the status of the current budget and other happenings from the state legislature. “So we still don’t have a budget, as everyone knows,” Alsop said. “Representatives from the governor’s office, as well as the house and the senate, still continue in daily negotiations over the budget.” Particularly troublesome regarding the budget is the impending the deadline, with the end of fiscal year steadily approaching on June 30. In addition, Alsop said, the budget is usually

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available by this time of year, and as the legislators run out of time, conversations about the budget grow “more challenging and more intense.” Last year, higher education in the state suffered a 4 percent budget cut; this year, there has been some speculation that an additional cut will be necessary to address West Virginia’s financial troubles. Some of the received proposals have higher education cut by 10 percent, Alsop said. Alsop pointed out that WVU is one of the strongest assets for the state, and because of this, the University will work through tax cuts as

they come. “Now is the time to invest in your strengths. West Virginia University is a strength for this state,” Alsop said. “You cut us, we become more efficient.” Also during the meeting, faculty representatives gave their annual report to the board of governors. WVU is now in the R1 category for research which comes with some new competition from other peer institutions in regards to attracting and maintaining faculty. WVU is in two peer groups—the Higher Education Policy Commission and another among other Big 12

universities. Comparatively, the majority of these peer institutions are also R1. Members of the Board were presented with data detailing WVU’s salaries as a percent of the national R1 averages, illustrating that WVU—while it had maintained and increased salaries during the recession— is now seeing its average decrease. “As the other states came out of the recession and started raising their salaries, the state of West Virginia was in the depths of it, and no one anticipated the bottom falling out of the coal market. We all know that

OUT OF THE DARKNESS

Lambert handed suspension, Students raise funds for suicide research, awareness with inaugural walk Molina ready to start

wvusports.com

By Chris Jackson

Associate Sports Editor @CJacksonWVU

WVU kicker Josh Lambert was already suspended by the team for spring practice, but his time away from the field has been extended. The Big 12 handed Lambert a three-game suspension to begin the 2016 season for violating unspecified Big 12 eligibility rules, according to Bruce Feldman of CBS. Lambert’s suspension was originally expected to be longer, sources told Mike Casazza of the Charleston Gazette-Mail. But WVU appealed the longer suspension – with the original duration unknown - trimming it down to only the first three nonconference games of next season. “It just got knocked down to three games,” said WVU head coach Dana Holgorsen. “We are happy that he is going to be a part of the team.” Redshirt junior kicker Mike Molina will be his replacement, playing in five games since 2014 as the backup to Lambert. He appeared in five games last season, averaging 63.6 yards per kickoff. Molina’s prepared to take over Lambert’s duties while he’s suspended, impressing the coaching staff as the team’s starting kicker throughout the spring. “Mike (Molina) has been great all spring,” said WVU assistant coach Mark Scott. “He is kicking close to 80 percent, and that is about 10-12 field goals a day. He has received a ton of reps, so we just have to continue to work on his fundamentals and consistency.” Lambert was a Lou Groza Award Finalist in 2014, given annually to college football’s top kicker. He set an NCAA record for most field goals

see LAMBERT on PAGE 2

Askar Salikhov/THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

Phil King visits Morgantown to raise awareness for suicide prevention by participating in the Out of the Darkness Walk.

by rachel mcbride staff writer @rachelgmcb

Someone dies from suicide in the United States every 13 minutes, and suicide claims more than 39,500 lives annually, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. It is estimated that a suicide attempt is made every minute, with nearly one million people attempting suicide annually. Suicide is also the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. among adults and the second leading cause of death among teens and young adults, making college-aged students particularly susceptible to the epidemic, statistically. On Friday evening, the West Virginia University chapter of the AFSP hosted its first-ever Out of the Darkness Walk at WVU to honor loved ones and potentially save lives while raising money and awareness for suicide. About 230 participants raised more than $3,000, 80 percent of which will stay within West Virginia to support suicide prevention within state lines. Tristin Toman, coordinator for the event, said suicide is something that has affected everyone in some way or another, and spring time has an increased rate for suicides compared to other seasons of the year, according to the Center for Disease Control. While data from the late 1800s suggests this spring peak has existed for decades, scientists are still unsure of the causes for the increase in suicides. Suicide prevention is an issue close to Toman’s heart, as she lost her uncle to suicide. After his passing Toman lobbied with other members of her family to make state legislators pass Jamie’s Law, which requires school systems to have detailed suicide awareness and prevention programs.

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INSIDE

A$AP Ferg drops new album A&E PAGE 4

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News: 1, 2 Opinion: 3 A&E: 4, 5 Sports: 7, 8, 10 Campus Calendar: 6 Puzzles: 6 Classifieds: 9

Askar Salikhov/THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

Daniel Brewster shares a story about a West Virginia University student who committed suicide during his tenure as a professor. “We are starting to become sources available to those suffering more aware,” Toman said. “The from depression and with the knowlmore aware we are, the more peo- edge that depression can take many ple will feel OK to talk about men- forms and affect different types of people in various ways. tal illnesses.” Allison Toothman, a participant “It’s time to take the subject out of in the Out of the Darkness walk, said the darkness and to end the stigma the event was integral to address- associated with it,” Byrd said. “There ing common misconceptions many is a safe way to talk about (suicide prevention), and talking about this hold about mental illness. “I feel too many people shove saves lives.” mental illness to the side, or society The event took place at the WVU has this expectation that only teen- Student Rec Center soccer fields. agers commit suicide,” Toothman Participants walked approximately said. “It is important to address that 2-3 miles during the event around both men and women of all ages suf- the field’s track. fer from crippling depression.” AFSP funds research aimed at imToothman walked in memory of proving our understanding of suia child who lost her parent to sui- cide and ways to prevent it, as well cide. Her own father committed sui- as educational programs to incide in 2012. crease awareness about preven“I think I am doing this because tion, warning signs and the psyI’m still struggling to understand my chiatric illnesses that can lead to life after my father’s death,” Tooth- suicide. man said. For more information on AFSP, Matthew Byrd, co-coordinator visit http://afsp.donordrive.com/. for the event, said he hopes particdanewsroom@mail.wvu.edu ipants walked away aware of the re-

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PUBLIC BREASTFEEDING Women are allowed by law to breastfeed publicly and should not be condemned by society OPINION PAGE 3

king coal is in the intensive care unit, if not hospice,” said Robert Griffith, member of the board and associate professor for the WVU School of Pharmacy. “It’s a serious problem—how are we going to maintain our competition with other R1 institutions to recruit and maintain faculty if we’re still being backed down?” WVU’s 10 percent tuition increase last year was made in part to raise faculty and staff salaries by 3 percent, Griffith said. Even still, current numbers do not match the percentage raise in sal-

see BOG on PAGE 2

ap

In new book, coal miners tell stories in their own words BECKLEY, W.Va. (AP)— For decades, coal communities bustling with miners and their families filled the landscape of southern West Virginia. As the years have gone by, the industry has changed — machines replaced men, strikes, layoffs, closures, environmental and safety concerns hit hard — and today many of those communities exist in name only. But the feelings and emotions, the details of living day-to-day as a miner, wife or even a widow, have been preserved in “Voices From the Appalachian Coalfields.” The book, a collaboration between the late Mike Yarrow and his wife Ruth, features free verse transcriptions of many of the interviews the couple conducted from 1977 to 1986. Ruth said Mike was studying sociology of work at the time and his brother Doug, a photographer, whose mining photos are featured in the book, told him he would find southern West Virginia an interesting place for his studies. “Doug was living in Beckley and he said this is where people were striking for decent working conditions,” Ruth recalled. Mike visited West Virginia many times over the next several years and Ruth said the entire family eventually relocated to Beckley for a year. She participated in much of the project, and would often speak with a wife while Mike interviewed a husband. Initial interviews, Ruth said, were conducted with people Doug had already formed relationships with. But at the conclusion of each, a new bond and trust was formed and additional sources were found through recommendation. “That was quite amazing,” she recalled. “It was by word-of-mouth. They would say somebody up the next hollow had some good stories to tell and you ought to go talk to them.” No real interview plan was set going in for each sitdown. Ruth said that was never required. Instead of questions, she and Mike went in with open minds and alert ears. “I think what we learned was that we didn’t really need to ask a lot,” she said. “We’d ask, ‘what you do ev-

see COAL on PAGE 2

HOME HEROICS WVU escapes K-State sweep with late comeback SPORTS PAGE 8


THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

2 | NEWS

Monday April 18, 2016

ap

More than 5 million tax returns expected Monday as deadline nears WASHINGTON (AP)— Millions of taxpayers face a midnight deadline Monday to file their tax returns, while millions of others will ask for more time -a six-month extension. There was a threeday delay beyond the traditional April 15 deadline because Friday was a legal holiday in the District of Columbia. Some things to know about taxes: THANK YOU, EMANCIPATION DAY The traditional April 15 filing deadline was extended because of Emancipation Day, a legal holiday in the nation’s capital. The holiday commemorates President Abraham Lincoln’s signing of the District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act in 1862. The act freed more than 3,000 enslaved people in the district and compensated their owners. The Friday holiday moves the tax deadline to the next business day. In Massachusetts and Maine, taxpayers get one more day to file. The deadline there is Tuesday because Monday is a legal holiday, Patriots’ Day, in both states. The holiday commemorates the first battles of the Revolutionary War in 1775. When the federal deadline is moved back, state and local deadlines also move back to match it. 150 MILLION TAX RETURNS The IRS expects millions of tax returns to be filed each day as the tax deadline approaches, with more than 5 million returns possible on Monday. More than 150 million tax returns are expected to be filed in 2016. As of April 8, almost 82 million refunds have been issued, the IRS said. The average refund amount was $2,798. For those who need more time to finish their returns, tax-filing exten-

coal

Continued from page 1 ery day? What are you concerned about? What do you enjoy?’ We learned to listen because people don’t really need questions. They know about their lives. “If you listen, they’ll tell you very important things.” Like Tim, a miner whose interview is titled “Laid-Off.” My father was a miner. Going underground and digging coal had real meaning, continuance of life, one generation to the next. Going underground and digging coal had real meaning, continuance of life, one generation to the next. Tim goes on to explain how he enjoyed learning his family “skill,” thriving on the danger and intimacy of depending on his co-workers. He worked long hours — often six days a week — and made a good living. Until his mine was shut down. I’ve been to 7-11 stores, I’ve been to every hotel, everything conceivable I’ve applied for. I ended up mowing grass. When you don’t have nothing, $10 is a lot of money. everything conceivable I’ve applied for. I ended up mowing grass. When you don’t have nothing, $10 is a lot of money. And in “An Eye on Each Other,” Eliza, a miner’s wife, talks about the significance of the tight-knit coal com-

ap

This April 13, 2014, file photo shows the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) headquarters building in Washington. Millions of taxpayers face a midnight deadline Monday, March 18, 2016, to file their tax returns, while millions of other Americans seek more time, a six-month extension. The filing deadline was delayed three days beyond the traditional April 15 deadline, because Friday was a legal holiday in the District of Columbia. sions are available. The IRS reminds taxpayers that extensions grant more time to file returns, but do not extend time to pay. The IRS projects it will receive 13.5 million requests for extensions. CONGRESS TARGETS IRS The IRS is a favorite target of lawmakers from both parties who complain about the complexity of the tax code and accompanying regulations that span more than 70,000 pages. Instructions to complete IRS Form 1040 - the main individual income-tax return run more than 100 pages. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., says the House will vote this week on a halfdozen bills to hold the IRS more accountable. “Fairness is our guide and acmunity, but makes special mention of the difficult financial times many families faced. We still have the tight families. But there’s so many people that’s out of work in this area. All the churches in this community They have what they call the food pantry. And the people that have, donate food and money. When all was said and done, the Yarrows conducted 225 interviews. Ruth said Mike began transcribing and fitting them into free-verse several years ago in hopes of publishing a book. The free verse method, she said, is a way of “distilling” the information people had shared with them. “One of the poems in the book is 3 ½ pages long, but I had 75 pages of transcripts from that interview,” she said. “I picked out the part that seemed the most compelling and showed the most emotion. The really deep parts.” When Mike passed away in 2014, Ruth said she decided to see the project through to completion. She said she believes the book is not only important because it brings the project to a close, but also because it preserves a piece of history. “People gave a lot to bring us that fossil fuel for all of those years,” she said. “But what’s most impressive to me is the courage and the humor and the dignity that they had as they did that work.”

countability is the goal as we try to make the IRS beholden to the American people,” McCarthy said in a statement. One bill would require the IRS to crack down on employees who are delinquent on their own taxes. According to the agency’s inspector general, nearly 1,600 IRS employees have failed to pay their own taxes in the past decade. The House also will consider legislation that blocks the IRS from rehiring employees who were already fired by the agency for misconduct. It will vote on bills to ban IRS employees from getting bonus payments until the agency puts in place a plan to improve customer service, and to block any IRS funding from being used to target citizens for

political purposes. The last bill is in response to complaints by Republicans that the tax agency unfairly treated conservative and tea party groups seeking tax-exempt status. The Justice Department said last fall that no IRS official will face criminal charges in the political controversy over the processing of applications by groups seeking tax-exempt status. The fate of the bills in the Senate is uncertain. IMPE ACH IRS COMMISSIONER? The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee has moved to impeach IRS Commissioner John Koskinen, but a full vote has not been taken in the House. House Speaker Paul

Ryan, R-Wis., stopped short of backing impeachment. The IRS “is an agency that needs to be cleaned up,” Ryan said at a news conference last week. But instead of impeachment, Republicans need to win the presidential election to “get better people in these agencies and reform the tax code so we’re not harassing the average taxpayer with a tax code that they can’t even understand,” Ryan said. CYBERSECURITY Ryan and other Republicans also criticize the IRS for failing to secure sensitive taxpayer data. They cite an inspector general’s report that identifies “significant security weaknesses that could affect the confidentiality, integrity and availability of financial and sensitive tax-

West Virginia kicker hugs former WVU coach Lonnie Galloway after hitting a game-winner against Texas Tech in 2014.

lambert

Continued from page 1 of 40-plus yards in a season (14), also hitting a pair of game-winning field goals. He’s led WVU in scoring the past three years and has converted six field goals of 50 or more yards. His 55yard field goal at Texas Tech in 2014 tied Paul Woodside

bog

Continued from page 1 aries other universities are giving. Another factor at play is that the cost of living in Morgantown is “surprisingly higher” than that of many other cities, according to Griffith.

payer data.” Koskinen told a House Science, Space and Technology subcommittee last week that securing taxpayer data continues to be a top priority. The IRS withstands more than one million malicious attempts to access its data each day, Koskinen said, and is stepping up efforts to combat identity theft. Even so, the problem is growing. What used to be limited to individuals filing a few dozen or a few hundred false tax returns now is often the work of organized crime syndicates in the U.S. and other countries, Koskinen said. The agency has “a delicate balance” to maintain, he said: “We need to keep the criminals out, while letting legitimate taxpayers in.”

FILE PHOTO

(1984) for a program record. However, Lambert battled injuries throughout last season, and the suspension has kept him away from the field even longer. Having a capable backup in Molina has helped relieve the pressures of replacing one of the country’s best at the position. “The nice thing is that it gives us a little bit more depth,” Scott said. “It takes away a strain off of every-

one’s legs by having more bodies. (Redshirt senior kicker) Josh (Lambert) also isn’t in kicking shape, so we have to get him back in the game. We have to get him going and build him up.” The duo has remained close throughout spring practice with Lambert suited up on the sideline. Lambert’s advice has helped Molina remain consistent, also tweaking occasional things he no-

tices to make him a better kicker. “Now I’ve got his eyes to watch me when I miss a kick or something,” Molina said. “When I come back, he tells me what I did wrong. Just telling me to keep my head up when I miss or if I hit a good ball, he’s telling me to go back to the net and do the same thing.”

Griffith gave an example of a potential employee the School of Pharmacy was looking to hire five years ago who turned down the job ultimately because the cost of living in Morgantown was too high compared to his residence in Texas. Members of the Board mentioned that salary is not always the driving force behind someone deciding

to join an institution. Lab equipment and faculty support, as well as the quality of the school, could all be incentives for professors to make a move for less salary, because they could achieve more professionally. WVU President E. Gordon Gee also commented on the importance of acknowledging professors and making them feel at home as they work at WVU. “You have to constantly identify the most talented people you have and make sure they are loved and recognized and make sure they are not ever in the business of other places,” Gee said. “I just hate that notion of, ‘Well if you’re so damn valuable go out and get something and we’ll talk to you then.’ That’s negative elitism at its worst.” Also during the meeting, the Board passed its consent

agenda which included: -The creation of a Doctor of Philosophy in Health Services and Outcomes Research in the School of Pharmacy. This establishes this program as a separate Ph.D. program rather than a track in the program, which it had formerly been for more than 25 years. -The creation of a new bachelor degree program of Entrepreneurship & Innovation in the College of Business and Economics -The construction of a new Engineering Lab Building on the Beckley Campus, which will cost $2.3 million and will be funded by borrowing from the WVU Research Corporation and repaid to the WVURC through a lease payment. It is expected to be completed in May 2017.

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OPINION

Monday April 18, 2016

CONTACT US 304-293-5092 ext. 4 | DAperspectives@mail.wvu.edu

editorial

Expressing pain, hurt through writing Don Blankenship, the former chairman and CEO of Massey Energy Company, was sentenced to just one year in prison and a fine of $250,000 on April 6. The sentence came one day after the 6-year anniversary of the explosion at the Upper Big Branch mine in Raleigh County, which took the lives of 29 miners. However, many believe this punishment isn’t enough for a man who repeatedly cut corners in mine safety for profit at the expense of workers. One West Virginia University graduate who took a special interest in the case is encouraging West Virginia residents to send letters to Blankenship while in prison. As detailed in an article in Beckley’s newspaper, the Register-Herald, titled “WVU grad calls for letters to Blankenship,” Ann Bybee-Finley’s Face-

book campaign “Making One Year Count” attempts to show Blankenship just how much his actions have affected families across the state through their own words. Though Blankenship was not directly responsible for the deadly blast on April 5, 2010, his ruthless efforts to evade safety laws and regulations created an environment in which disaster was waiting to happen. The Charleston Gazette-Mail indicated in its 2014 article about Blankenship’s indictment that he was charged with “conspiring to cause willful violations of ventilation requirements and control rules” in order to increase coal production and make greater profits. He also was noted to have made false statements to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission about his company’s safety

procedures. The Register-Herald details some of the events of Blankenship’s case and states family members weren’t permitted to read victim impact statements to Blankenship at his sentencing. Blankenship, who grew up in West Virginia but lives in Las Vegas during the year, likely doesn’t understand the true impact his actions have caused to families simply trying to make a living through mining. Blankenship, according to an NPR news investigation from 2010, had an annual salary of $17.8 million in 2009, so one year in jail and a mere $250,000 fine won’t set this millionaire back. Urging citizens to voice their hurt to the one responsible could be a cathartic and emotionally liberating experience. The American justice

Don Blankenship will spend one year in jail and pay a fine of $250,000. system regularly administers jail and prison sentences to wrongdoers, but whether someone truly reforms as a result of their time behind bars is a purely personal decision. Though

Blankenship has been kept out of experiencing or understanding the emotional toll of his moneymaking schemes on West Virginians to this point, letters from the people who lost

cbc.ca

sons, brothers, fathers and friends to his greedy practices may inspire true remorse and a change of heart. daperspectives@mail.wvu.edu

commentary

Hard to satire: Turkey forcing censorship abroad Robby ralston columnist @robbyralstonda

Should satire ever be punished? Recent events in Turkey have led the public to answer this question with a resounding “no.” In March, a music video was put on the internet by the German comedy show extra3 that represented Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as a thin-skinned authoritarian willing to suppress dissent. According to the New York Times article “Erdogan’s Attempt to Suppress German Satire Has the Opposite Effect,” representatives from the Turkish government soon asked Germany to remove the video from the internet. The video was not removed, but news of Turkey’s request quickly spread and caused outrage. This led Jan Böhmermann, a German comedian, to parody the action on the TV show Neo Magazin Royale. The clip shows Böhmermann mocking Ergodan for not knowing Germany has free speech laws while in conversation with another comedian pretending to be a lawyer. Böhmermann then points out that only abusive criticism is illegal in Germany, proceeding to read a poem titled “Abusive Criticism,” which repeatedly insults Ergodan in a variety of ways. After the performance, the Turkish government formally requested that Germany bring charges against

Jan Böhmermann, a German comedian, may have gone too far in a parody of Turkish leader Tayyip Erdogan. Böhmermann under an old law which allows, though does not require, Germany to prosecute insults against foreign heads of state. An article from Financial Times titled “Merkel grants Turkey request to probe German comedian over poem” confirms that German Chancellor Angela Merkel will allow the investigation and prosecution, though she will try to repeal the outdated law. The true nature of the issue can be better illustrated by an example from the U.S. In September, John Oliver, host of the HBO show “Last Week Tonight,” did a segment titled “Migrants and Refugees” about the refugee

crisis in Europe. Near the beginning of the video, Oliver made an obvious joke about British Prime Minister David Cameron, implying that he enjoys bestiality, before criticizing how Cameron characterized the millions of refugees coming to Europe from the Middle East in official statements. Imagine if the U.S. government gave Cameron approval to bring charges against Oliver for slander through the U.S. judicial system in response. This would obviously be an infringement on Oliver’s free speech and an abuse of power by a foreign minister to quell criticism abroad. Virtually everyone

would find this completely immoral and unacceptable, not to mention petty and tyrannical. However, this is what is happening between Turkey and Germany. Despite the complicated politics of the issue, we cannot forget that such actions must be opposed by those who value freedom of expression and the ability to dissent politically. Why would Germany allow such an obvious infringement of freedom of speech instigated by a foreign president? Well, the Financial Times article also reports that Turkey is using its recent refugee agreement with the Eu-

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ropean Union to influence the country. Under the agreement, Turkey will take in refugees which had previously been going to Europe in exchange for billions of dollars of aid and reopening discussion to allow the country into the E.U. The agreement has already drastically reduced the number of refugees entering Germany, which is a growing point of contention in German politics. The same article reports that the rising number of refugees had fueled the far-right Alternative für Deutschland political party, which saw huge gains throughout the refugee crisis and is still on the rise. This

party is opposed to Merkel’s Christian Democratic Union party, making the agreement a valuable political move, regardless of the human consequences. Turkey knows this is an important agreement for Merkel’s party and is seemingly using it to pressure the German government. Moreover, Erdogan also has a history of severe censorship within Turkey. To take a very recent example, according to last month’s Human Rights Watch article “Turkey: Academics Jailed For Signing Petition,” three academics were imprisoned and another 57 were dismissed or suspended from their positions for signing a petition that decried the government’s campaign against the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, a Kurdish resistance group in Turkey, as repressive to the civilian population. These actions demonstrate Erdogan is not afraid to censor dissent within Turkey and is willing to pressure other governments to suppress negative comments made by comedians. Further, Merkel will allow this, at least partially, since she likely believes it will help her political party keep power over farright alternatives. This willingness to flout freedom of speech while negotiating international politics is alarming and must be opposed. We should stand with anyone who is willing to criticize tyrannical actions, no matter what words they decide to use. daperspectives@mail.wvu.edu

commentary

Purely natural: Breastfeeding in public is met with unnecessary criticism shelby bradford columnist @shelby_B_127

Breastfeeding is a completely normal, healthy part of motherhood and should not be decided by the public where it is permitted. However, some individuals believe the natural process of a mother feeding her child is disgusting and should be hidden from society’s sight. The main argument against women breastfeeding in public is based around the idea that breastfeeding is “disgusting” or that it is “scandalous” for a mother to reveal her breasts in order to feed her child. However, it’s highly unlikely that the same people who complain about this issue would have similar complaints about the dozens of retailers that sell low-cut tops and pushup bras to young women so that they might achieve the same goal of revealing skin, but without a baby in tow. In fact, many such comparisons of the two lines of thinking have been showcased in online videos, and as predicted, the public’s

DA

Breastfeeding in public is protected by law in the U.S. responses were drastically different. One of the most popular videos from this line of social experiments came from Joey Salads in January 2016. It was entitled “Sexy vs. Breastfeeding in Public” and featured a model dressed to reveal the same amount of breast that would show if she were breastfeeding.

Even when placed side by side, passersby referred to the mother photo as “disgusting” and “gross” but the model as “sexy” and “hot.” Even when the producer of the video mentioned to the individuals that both photos showed the same amount of skin, the participants in the experiment could only come up with “that’s sexy”

momtastic.com

while pointing to the model, and saying “that’s just gross” about the breastfeeding mother. This reflects a much larger problem in society. Too often, the general public is so uneducated about what is natural that they readily accept what has been oversexualized and condemn what they do not understand. As

demonstrated by the video, the average person will consider a poster of a scantily-clad underwear model more socially acceptable than a mother barely showing the topmost portion of a breast in order to nurse an infant. It is apparently such a large problem that business owners, passersby and other individuals act as if they have a right to tell a woman she cannot nurse publicly; however, they are wrong. The National Conference for State Legislature published a report on its website of laws surrounding breastfeeding in the workplace and in public in December 2015. Forty-nine states, as well as Washington, D.C. and the Virgin Islands, have laws that specifically entitle women the right to nurse in public places. Twenty-nine of these states have exemptions for nursing mothers from public indecency or nudity laws, and 27 states plus D.C. and Puerto Rico have laws permitting mothers time to nurse throughout the workday, and require a location which is not a bathroom to be allocated for nursing

in the workplace. In other words, the public does not have the authority to tell a nursing mother she cannot breastfeed her child. Despite legislature that protects public nursing, people often believe they are still entitled to shame women for feeding their children. The excuse is usually, “It disturbs me,” or “You can do that elsewhere.” However, breastfeeding is a natural aspect of becoming a mother. It is healthy not only for the baby but also for the nursing mother. On average, a nursing mother reveals no more, or even less, of her bosom than many women do wearing today’s fashionable designer tops. Forcing women to nurse infants in private places like bathrooms is unsanitary and discriminates against mothers for fulfilling a necessary aspect of their child’s needs. If this country has sexualized breasts so much that it finds women using them for their intended purpose to be wrong, then it’s obvious America has a much larger societal issue on its hands. daperspectives@mail.wvu.edu

Letters to the Editor can be sent 284 Prospect St. or emailed to daperspectives@mail.wvu.edu. Letters should include name, title and be no more than 300 words. Letters and columns, excluding the editorial, are not necessarily representative of The Daily Athenaeum’s opinion. EDITORIAL STAFF: MADISON FLECK, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF • DAVID SCHLAKE, MANAGING EDITOR • ABBY HUMPHREYS, OPINION EDITOR • CAITY COYNE, CITY EDITOR • KAYLA ASBURY, ASSOCIATE CITY EDITOR • DAVID STATMAN, SPORTS EDITOR • CHRIS JACKSON, ASSOCIATE SPORTS EDITOR • CAITLIN WORRELL, A&E EDITOR • WESTLEY THOMPSON, ASSOCIATE A&E EDITOR • ANDREW SPELLMAN, ART DIRECTOR • MORGAN PENNINGTON, COPY DESK CHIEF THEDAONLINE.COM COURTNEY GATTO, CAMPUS CONNECTION & SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR (TWITTER) • ALLY LITTEN, SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR (INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK) • ALEXIS RANDOLPH, WEB EDITOR


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A&E

Monday April 18, 2016

CONTACT US

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CITY MEETS COUNTRY

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A$AP Ferg releases second studio album, Josh Kelley brings emotion and honesty to new record by chelsea walker A&E writer @dailyathenaeum

Emerging artists and sophomore studio albums are expected to hit the charts this week with country singer Josh Kelley releasing his “New Lane Road”, and A$AP Ferg’s much anticipated “Always Strive and Prosper.” A$AP Mob member, Darold Ferguson, Jr., known to many as ASAP Ferg, will drop his second studio album “Always Strive and Prosper,” Friday. Born and raised in the heart of Harlem, Ferguson was exposed to the raw world of rap early on. Growing up, Ferguson spent time in his father’s boutique, where he assisted printing shirts for record labels such as Bad Boy Records and Heavy D. Spending his early years in the boutique, Ferguson yearned for a life immersed in fashion. Gaining inspiration from his father’s tragic death, Ferguson launched clothing and jewelry lines while attending art school. With his friend Rakim Meyers, otherwise known as A$AP Rocky, offering encouragement and an open microphone, Ferguson began writing and rapping his own lyrics. In 2010, he collaborated with A$AP Rocky on major tracks such as “Get High,” “Kissin’ Pink,” and “Ghetto Symphony,” a track that premiered on A$AP Rocky’s 2013 chart topping label debut “Long. Live. A$AP.” In 2012, the artist released his first single

“Work,” and by the following year, he landed a record deal with RCA Records. Releasing his first studio album a year later, A$AP Ferg’s “Trap Lord” remained No. nine on the Billboard 200 chart and earned him the BET HipHop Awards “Rookie of the Year” title. Dropping the first single from “Always Strive and Prosper,” A$AP Ferg’s “New Level,” featuring Future peaked at 97 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Judging by the artist’s interview with Billboard leading up to the anticipated release date, this record showcases his “best work yet,” and features from Missy Elliot, Future, Rick Ross and Chris Brown. “People can say what they want after this thing is out, but trust me, it’s going to be crazy,” A$AP Ferg said in his interview with Billboard. “I was the “Trap Lord” two years ago, I became the “Hood Pope” on y’all.” Aiming to break the bland mold of today’s current country, musician Josh Kelly will release his album “New Lane Road,” Friday. Raised in Augusta, Georgia, Kelley was the product of a small, country town. At age 11, Kelley began experimenting with the strings of an acoustic guitar with his musically talented older brother. The two shared a passion for music and, eventually, a band called “Inside Blue.” At 14, the two wrote and recorded five tracks that were released on a CD. Those five tracks allowed Kelley to meet funk and R&B legend James Brown. Kelley

Josh Kelley releases his album ‘New Lane Road’ on Friday. continued to pursue music, playing jazz in high school with his brother. It wasn’t until 2001 that the artist released his debut independent album, “Changing Faces,” and received recognition from major record labels. Gaining interest from Hollywood Records, Kelley signed a deal in 2002 and released his album “For The Ride Home,” which featured his hit song “Amazing.” Since, Kelley has found himself touring with Rod Stewart, Third Eye Blind and Counting Crows, as well as performing at major music festivals such as Bonnaroo. His latest single,

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“Georgia Clay” dropped in 2010 and became a top 20 hit on the Hot Country Songs chart. With years passing since his last release, Kelley will hope to capture fans with lyrics that tell tales of love, heartbreak and honesty. “I think this is definitely the most honest album I’ve ever done,” Kelley said in an interview with Billboard. “I’m finally at a place that I have compiled enough experiences into traveling to actually have some real substance to write about.” daa&e@mail.wvu.edu

U92 rocks out at annual Moose Fest

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Tim Ryan, a member of Dogjaw, plays the bass during the band’s performance at 123 Pleasant Street on Saturday night.

Rose Anne, the lead singer of Beast Friend, performs with her band at 123 Pleasant Street on Saturday night.

Askar Salikhov/THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

Jim Prices plays the guitar and provides the main vocals along with his band, Dogjaw, during the Moose Fest event organized by U92 College Radio.

Askar Salikhov/THE DAILY ATHENAEUM


THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

Monday April 18, 2016

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT | 5

WVU student organizations host Spring Fling

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Riviera, a Morgantown Pop-punk music band, makes an appearance at the Battle of the Bands competition during the Spring Fling event on Saturday afternoon.

Askar Salikhov/THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

What’s Missing, a Morgantown Alternative rock group, competes in the Battle of the Bands during the Spring Fling event in the Mountainlair Green.

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Chris Allen, a local rap artist, wins $1,000 from Coca-Cola and a record deal through WVU’s Mon Hill Records at the Spring Fling Battle of the Bands competition.

Askar Salikhov/THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

Attendees of the Spring Fling event on Saturday relax on the Mountainlair Green and enjoy the Battle of the Bands competition between music artists.

ap | eNTERTAINMENT

JJ Abrams and Chris Rock talk show business NEW YORK (AP) ‑ How do you make it in show biz? One way is, play nice, according to a pair of entertainment Alisters, J.J. Abrams and Chris Rock. Appearing for a Directors Talk session at the Tribeca Film Festival on Friday, comedian-actor-writerdirector Rock was nominally on hand to interview Abrams, the multi-faceted filmmaker behind TV shows and features including “Alias,” ‘’Lost,” ‘’Star Trek” and, most recently, “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” But both had plenty to say during what unfolded as a lively, freeform conversation. Asked by Rock what’s a dealbreaker when it comes to who he chooses to work with, Abrams replied, “People who aren’t kind.” “When I’ve heard that people are difficult, I’ve almost always said no. Life is too short.” A bit later, Rock offered this advice to aspiring actors and filmmakers: “You’re going to have meetings with pretty much the same people your whole career. So be a gentleman. THEY’RE not going ANYwhere. They move to different companies: ‘Oh, no, not YOU again!’” Yes, making “Star Wars” was a blast, said Abrams. In contrast, producing the recent mini-budget thriller “10 Cloverfield Lane” was like working in miniature. “But nothing changes in terms of the fundamentals,” he said. Take away the epic scale and computer-

JJ Abrams and Chris Rock talk the business in Hollywood. graphics wizardry of “Star Wars,” and you’ve got the same essentials of cinema: actors engaged with one another entertainingly. Actors who Abrams would like to work with, but hasn’t: “Meryl Streep, the obvious go-to.” Robert De Niro.

Denzel Washington? “The closest I got to working with him was when he wanted to use my office at Paramount for a while. So I guess you could say I’ve worked with Denzel.” “I want to direct Denzel in a comedy,” Rock said.

thethrillist.com

“You could be in it, too,” proposed Abrams. “I BETTER be in it!” Rock erupted. Abrams said he knew he wanted to be a filmmaker after taking the Universal Studios tour when he was 8 years old: “It was an en-

lightening thing to see the magic of how movies were made. It blew my mind.” A bit later, his father got into film production, which gave him regular access to hang out at studios. “You had a big advantage,” Rock grinned. “What job did you get that you didn’t deserve?” “I want to say ‘Star Wars,’” Abrams cracked. Early in his career, he found success as a script doctor fixing other writers’ efforts. It’s quick, lucrative work, but he began to lose sight of the creative urge that had fired him up in the first place. “You have to do what you care about,” his future wife told him. He agreed. “I thought, ‘Why did I forget that part?’” The next thing he knew, he had written and sold “Felicity,” an instant hit about a girl starting college. It launched him as a major figure in the entertainment industry with multiple titles, including writer, director and producer. Rock tossed Abrams a challenge: “What show should I do? ‘Cause I’m running out of money.” “If I nailed it, will you do it with me?” asked Abrams. “Yes,” Rock fired back as the audience cheered. “But nothing to do with a carwash.” Abrams said he’d like to work with Rock. “But usually when I do a story meeting,” he said, glancing out at the sold-out auditorium, “it’s with less than 1,200 people.”

Clooney hosting Clinton fundraiser, raises controversy WASHINGTON (AP) ‑ Actor George Clooney would like to get big money out of politics - so he doesn’t have to raise it. Clooney hosted two weekend fundraisers in California on behalf of Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. Donations for attendees at an event in San Francisco topped out at $353,000 per couple, which Clooney acknowledges is an “obscene amount of money.” The event even drew pro-Bernie Sanders demonstrators, Clooney recounted in an interview airing Sunday on NBC’s “Meet the Press.” When he went to talk with them, he said, they called him a corporate shill. “That’s one of the funnier things you could say about me,” the Oscar-winner said, though he conceded that some of the protesters had a valid point regarding a different matter. “Their T-shirts said, you know, ‘You sucked as Batman,’” said Clooney, the star of 1997’s “Batman & Robin,” one of the least memorable films in the superhero franchise. “And I was like, ‘Well, you kind of

got me on that one.’” Asked on CNN Sunday whether Clooney was siding with the wrong candidate, Sanders replied, “I think he is. “ But he praised Clooney with being honest enough to name the problem. Clooney said he likes many of Sanders’ ideas and would gladly raise money for him if he became the Democratic nominee. But the actor said he is supporting Clinton because of his admiration of her work as secretary of state, and he praised her for her efforts to avert a humanitarian crisis ahead of South Sudan’s independence. Clooney faulted Clinton for not better explaining where the money she is raising goes. Most of it, he said, would end up being spent on down-ballot races including those for the Senate, which will confirm the next president’s picks for the Supreme Court. If the right justice is confirmed for the spot now open on the court, Clooney said, political campaigns could “get this obscene, ridiculous amount of money out so I never have to do a fundraiser George Clooney hosts controverial fundraiser for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign. again.”

people.com


6 | CAMPUS CONNECTION

S U D O k U

THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

Monday April 18, 2016

Difficulty Level Medium

Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudoku.org.uk.

FRIday’s puzzle solved

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Across 1 “That was close!” 5 Fictional whale hunter 9 Dying-out sound 13 Affectionate email closing 14 Farmer’s place, in song 15 Cuisinart setting 16 Ready to admit customers 19 Al __: firm, as pasta 20 “Splish Splash” singer Bobby 21 Inexact no. 22 Baseball card figs. 24 Skillful 26 Blot up the moisture on 29 Like a perfect game 32 Cinderella’s horses, after midnight 35 “I __ you one” 36 Like wolves 37 Springsteen’s “Born in the __” 38 Outfit for the slopes 40 TV program breaks 41 Cocktail party bite 43 Envoy’s bldg. 44 Thicken, as cream 45 Many-headed monster 46 Potato or rice, e.g. 48 Gulf of Aden republic 50 False name 53 Texter’s “Hang on a minute” 55 Super-fun party 58 Planet attacked in some sci-fi films 60 It more or less coincides with 2016 on Chinese calendars ... and a hint to this puzzle’s circles 63 Fortune-teller’s deck 64 Coke, e.g. 65 Like a 2-2 game 66 “What __ is new?” 67 Wait on the phone 68 Memo starter Down 1 Walk with difficulty 2 Crosses one’s fingers 3 The World Series, e.g. 4 Came unglued 5 Hue and cry 6 Buffalo group 7 “Dark Angel” actress Jessica 8 Movie disk format 9 “I used to be a banker but I lost interest,” e.g. 10 Seller’s come-on

11 Come clean, with “up” 12 Dry run 15 Pesto ingredient 17 Brine-cured Greek cheese 18 Vicious of the Sex Pistols 23 Tend, as a fire 25 Dad 27 SADD focus 28 Put back to zero 30 Bring to ruin 31 Hornet’s home 32 “__ obliged!” 33 Words to an old chap 34 Snickers and Milky Way 36 Sign of many an October baby 38 Program that sends unsolicited messages 39 Thurman of “The Producers” 42 “__ you nuts?” 44 Wine in a straw-wrapped bottle 46 Grab 47 1963 Liz Taylor role 49 Helper for Santa 51 “Argo” actor Alan

PET PAL OF THE WEEK

52 T-bone source 53 Computer memory unit 54 Genuine 56 “Beat it!” 57 Be a snitch 59 Jekyll’s alter ego 61 Lobster eggs 62 Fuming

FRIday’S puzzle solved

C R O S S W O R D

To have your pet featured as pet pal of the week, email cugatto@mail.wvu.edu

Nina, a dog from the campus police department, enjoys the sunshine and warm weather over the weekend | photo by Garrett Yurisko

HOROSCOPE GEMINI (May 21-June 20) HHH Review your investments and plan ARIES (March 21-April 19) HHH for long-term growth. Fine-tune Advancement on long-term projects shared finances over the next five seems slowed or suspended. Revise months, with Pluto retrograde. Reprofessional plans over the next five affirm and revise agreements. Your months, with Pluto retrograde. Ex- discipline is admirable. plore new workspace options. ImagCANCER (June 21-July 22) HH ine a delightful future. Hold yourself Keep promises with your partner to to high standards. clear space for a new project. The next five months, with Pluto retrograde, favor retreats, collaborative TAURUS (April 20-May 20) HHH brainstorming and getaways. NurGet into more interesting assignture your relationship with extra ments. Enjoy scientific research and attention. intellectual study over the next five months, with Pluto retrograde. Plan LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) HHH Rean educational adventure, like a con- view and reaffirm your direction at ference, vacation or class, for later work over the next five months, with in the year.

BY NANCY BLACK

Pluto retrograde. Make plans for acSCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) HHHH tion later in the year. Does your work Focus discussion around short-term feed your spirit? Is anything missing? projects close to home over the next five months, with Pluto retrograde. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) HHHH Launch a major promotion later in Refine your winning strategies over the year. Get your ducks in a row. the next five months, with Pluto retrograde. Make plans and calcuSAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) lations. Tune your instruments and HHH More responsibility leads prepare for a performance later in to more income. Streamline for efthe year. ficiency over the next five months, with Pluto retrograde. Develop what LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) HHHH you have. Review finances to conStick with tested methods at home serve resources. Learn from past sucover the next five months, with cesses as well as failures. Pluto retrograde. Make an inspiration folder with renovation ideas. ReCAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) search prices and get bids. Plan proj- HHHH The next five months are ects for later in the year. good for healing old wounds, with Pluto retrograde. Let go of worn-

out baggage. Review personal desires and alter course to suit. Launch a dream project later this year.

BORN TODAY Discovery is this year’s theme. Make creative moves after 5/9, planning educational trips AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) HHH after 8/13. Partnership especially Refine health and well-being practhrives for two years, beginning tices over the next five months, with Pluto retrograde. Curtail speculation 9/9. Professional breakthroughs (afand risk. Stick with the team you’ve ter 9/1) lead to a shift in your views, got. Enjoy a spa or retreat. Launch ideals and beliefs (after 9/16). Love’s a requirement, not an option. into action later this year. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) HHHH Prepare for a community effort later this year. For the next five months, with Pluto retrograde, secure what’s already been achieved. Keep the current team roster. Do what worked before. Line up the pieces.


THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

Monday April 18, 2016

AD | 7

Sticking With It

By David Buch

How and why should you begin an exercise program? You may think you have the answers, and you almost certainly do have some. However, your answer to this question makes a good indicator of how successful you will be. Current research being conducted by leading psychologists suggests that we may be approaching exercise all wrong, and that error could cost you dearly if you are hoping to start visiting the gym. Developing habits is a game of psychology, stimulus – reward – stimulus reward. As humans we learn new habits in part by associating actions with positive consequences, whether that positive consequence is an external reward or a personal sense of satisfaction. So why is it so difficult to establish a healthy and reasonable exercise habit? According to the American Psychological Association, we are seeking out the wrong rewards. “Attending to the [visual] outcomes of fitness is a recipe for failure,” says Dr. Michael Otto, a professor of psychology at Boston University. Ultimately, external physical changes that are easily noticeable take months of rigorous dedication. It is important to stay patient when looking for physical changes in appearance, but to also be willing to accept the notion that physical perfection displayed in the media is not realistic or attainable. Instead, psychologists like Otto recommend recalibrating the focus of your efforts. When exercising to boost your mood, you will notice results almost instantly. People tend to skip workouts when they are feeling blue, and as a result they are never able to appreciate what a great difference it can make. Otto compares it to skipping aspirin when your head hurts.

But even this strategy may be foiled by misconceptions people bring into the gym from outside. For example, exercise newbies are notorious for starting out a program too intensely and injuring themselves. Just as weekend warriors seeking physical health benefits often exercise sporadically at high intensity levels, leading to injury. Those seeking a boost to their energy or mood levels may also overdo it. Research shows the greatest mood benefits come from 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise, performed most days of the week. And remember, intensity is relative to fitness level. A good way to determine your level is through a talk test. Moderate-intensity activities are characterized by the ability to speak but not sing during the activity. The mood-boosting power of exercise is an effective weapon to fend off mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. Psychologists have observed correlations for years between physical exercise and mental wellbeing. It is being shown that exercise, for some, is as beneficial as medication or talk therapy. In most cases, exercise is an excellent addition to medication and talk therapy. If you feel exercise is a good option for you, it is important to discuss this with your health care provider. You may also seek out further information from WELLWVU’s Movement for Mental Health program. To find out more, be sure to visit WELLWVU’s moveWELL program webpage at: http://well.wvu.edu/wellness/livewell/movewell Sponsored by:

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Want a career in health? START HERE MEDICAL SCRIBE Gain practical experience, a great asset when applying to health science graduate schools. See online application for details.

APPLY ONLINE WVUMedicine.org/careers Tennis

Mountaineers falter on road, suffer two straight losses in Texas By Neel Madhavan Sports Writer @theneel64

The West Virginia University women’s tennis team dropped a pair of away matches over the weekend to No. 25 Texas (13-6, 5-2 Big 12) and No. 45 Baylor (16-13, 5-3 Big 12). The Mountaineers (6-12, 0-7 Big 12) fell to Texas by a score of 5-0, and dropped the match to Baylor 4-0. “We are looking for a more confident approach toward our game,” said WVU head coach Miha Lisac in an interview with WVUSports.com. “We have to get better and make progress in our game overall when it comes to competing.” The Mountaineers struggled to make an impact against the talented Texas lineup. In doubles, the Longhorns wrapped things up quickly with two 6-2 victories at the No. 1 and 2 positions. A positive aspect for West Virginia was the return of senior captain Hailey Barrett from injury. Barrett teamed with sophomore Yvon Martinez at No. 3 singles in a match that

was abandoned at 3-4 due to Texas securing the doubles point. It was Barrett’s first competitive action since the Marshall match over a month ago. In singles, sophomore Habiba Shaker became another one of No. 11 Breaunna Addison’s long list of victims this season. It is just Shaker’s third singles loss of the season. After a big win last week, freshman Paula Goetz struggled at the No. 2 singles position, dropping a 6-3, 6-0 match to Texas’ Neda Koprcina. Sophomore Carolina Lewis won the only set of the weekend for the Mountaineers as she managed to take the first set from Texas’ Danielle Wagland, but her match went unfinished as the Longhorns secured the match. Junior Kaja Mrgole and Martinez each dropped their matches in straight sets at the No. 5 and 6 positions, respectively. Against the Bears, West Virginia’s struggles continued. For the most part, Baylor dominated the Mountaineers in doubles play. Two quick 6-0 sweeps at the No. 1 and 3 positions secured the doubles point for the Bears. But, at the No. 2 position, the Moun-

Askar Salikhov/The Daily Athenaeum

Hailey Barrett returns the ball in a February match against Buffalo. taineer duo of Goetz and sophomore Lyn Yuen Choo were ahead 4-1 in their match before play was abandoned. Singles play didn’t go much better for the Mountaineers. Baylor’s Kiah Ge-

nerette defeated Goetz at the No. 2 position, 6-1, 6-1. Shaker’s match against No. 89 Blair Shankle didn’t finish officially, but Shankle had match point up 6-3, 5-3 40-0 when the match was called. Mrgole continues to

get back to match fitness as the regular season starts to wind down, but fell in her match to Baylor’s Kelley Anderson in straight sets. Martinez struggled as well, falling in straight sets at the No. 6 position.

The Mountaineers return home next weekend for their final two matches of the regular season against TCU on Friday and Texas Tech next Sunday. dasports@mail.wvu.edu


8

SPORTS

Monday April 18, 2016

Mountaineers record best performance of season at Penn State By Neel Madhavan Sports Writer @theneel64

The Mountaineers saved their best performance of the season for last. The West Virginia University men’s golf team finished in second place in the 11team field behind host and tournament champions No. 31 Penn State - its highest team finish of the season. West Virginia finished with a one-over 853 team score which placed it 10 strokes behind the Nittany Lions. “I’m very proud of the guys this week,” said WVU head coach Sean Covich in an interview with WVUSports.com. “We showed we can compete and, more importantly, our guys now believe in themselves. We have some validation for our hard work. This will provide some momentum for our young program.” The consistency that has been missing all spring finally showed up at the Blue Course in State College, Pennsylvania for West Virginia. After the first round, the Mountaineers were one shot behind Xavier in third place and improved to second place at the end of the first day of play. West Virginia tallied back-to-back even-par 284s and concluded with a 1-over 285. The two stars of the weekend for the Mountaineers were junior Alan Cooke and freshman Max Sear. Both turned in season-best performances in the final round, which allowed both to finish in the top-5 for the tournament. Cooke’s steady play amounted to a pair of 1-under 70s leaving him in seventh place at the end of the first day. But, in the final round, Cooke tied his best single round score of the season with a four-under 67, catapulting him up the leaderboard as a runner-up at 6-under 207. Penn State’s Charles Huntzinger was

the tournament’s individual medalist with a 10-under 203. Sear showcased the consistency that has enabled him to be one of the Mountaineers’ strongest players this season. He opened with a one-under 70 and an even-par 71; he was a shot behind Cooke and was tied for eighth after the first two rounds. Sear matched Cooke’s final round fourunder 67 and finished tied for fourth at five-under par. Freshman Tristan Nicholls had another solid performance for the Mountaineers. He started off with an even-par 71 and concluded with back-to-back 3-over 74s to finish tied for 22nd at six-over par. Continuing his decent performances this spring season, junior Chris Williams opened with a pair of two-over 73s, and closed with a six-over 77 to finish tied for 31st at 10-over 223. Senior captain Easton Renwick has struggled to find his game in recent weeks, and his performance this weekend likely eliminates any chance he may have had at receiving an at-large bid to the NCAA Regionals. Renwick had an up-and-down performance, opening with a 4-over 75 and rebounding with a 1-under 71 in the second round. But the wheels fell off the wagon in the final round for Renwick as he shot an 8-over 79 to finish tied for 35th. Competing as an individualist this week, sophomore Avery Schneider finished tied for 48th with a 14-over 227. The second place finish is a strong way to end the regular season, especially after a lackluster spring. It gives the Mountaineers something to build on going into the Big 12 Championships in two weeks and also into next season. dasports@mail.wvu.edu

CONTACT US 304-293-5092 ext. 2 | DAsports@mail.wvu.edu

GREAT ESCAPE

WVU’s Braden Zarbnisky rounds third and heads for home in the eighth inning yesterday against Kansas State.

ASKAR SALIKHOV/THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

Late rally helps Mountaineers avoid home sweep By Chris Jackson

Associate Sports Editor @CJacksonWVU

Despite falling in the first two games of the series, the Mountaineers found a much-needed win Sunday. West Virginia University’s (18-16, 5-6 Big 12) four-run eighth inning put it ahead for good, sealing a 5-4 comeback victory to avoid the weekend sweep to Kansas State (16-20, 3-9 Big 12). It snapped a three-game losing streak, falling a day after a 15-2 drubbing on Saturday that brought the players together to rally past the Wildcats. “After struggling the first two games Friday and Saturday, to be down 4-1 early and stick with it and stick together and win a game is a big confidence builder, a big morale builder,” said WVU catcher Ray Guer-

rini. “I’m glad we didn’t get swept.” It was the culmination of a collective team effort in the eighth. Kyle Gray drew a bases loaded walk to trim the deficit to 4-2. Braden Zarbnisky then pinch-hit for Jimmy Galusky, scoring a pair on an RBI single to tie it. That’s when freshman Darius Hill delivered one of the team’s biggest hits of the year. Hill dropped a grounder to the shortstop, with the throw to second late as the fielder’s choice attempt failed. Gray scored on the play, with Hill notching the go-ahead infield single to push the Mountaineers back into the win column. “It’s night and day, we needed that more than anything,” said WVU senior pitcher BJ Myers. “I think that might have saved our season. That win coming from behind, we needed

that big time.” Myers’ outing after a struggling start changed the afternoon. Besides one pitch – a three-run home run to Josh Rolette that put Kansas State ahead 4-0 in the third – he and his teammates deemed it one of his best efforts. He tossed eight innings, allowing four earned runs, eight hits and striking out five. Blake Smith followed with the save in the ninth, striking out two of the final three hitters to record the victory. “I barely had to move my glove so I’d have to agree with him,” Guerrini said about Myers. “They were swinging in missing or they were popping it up. That was probably BJ’s best outing that I’ve ever caught.” Sunday could potentially change the team’s fortunes. Ross Vance struggled with 1.2 innings on the mound Saturday in the 15-2 loss,

WOMEN’S SOCCER

and Kyle Davis’ game-tying home run wasn’t enough in Friday’s eventual 8-6 defeat. But they bounced back behind a resilient performance. One play led to another in the eighth behind three different freshmen driving in runs. And BJ Myers rallied the group around. WVU is back into fifth place and one game below .500 in terms of its conference record, sitting 1.5 games behind Texas for fourth place. “Guys got to feel good about the way we won this game,” said WVU head coach Randy Mazey. “There’s always a point in the season that you call a moment of team unity, and I hope that’s it. I hope guys rally around BJ (Myers) and what he did today and realize we’re right in the thick of this thing.” cgjackson@mail.wvu.edu

men’s soccer

WVU splits weekend Mountaineers earn home loss doubleheader at George Mason and draw in spring matchups

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WVU’s Nia Gordon chases after the ball against Villanova last season.

BY CONNOR HICKS SPORTS WRITER @WHUTTHEHICKS

The West Virginia women’s soccer team split two matches at George Mason this weekend, defeating the Washington Spirit 3-0 and falling to American immediately after by a 1-0 score. The first match was played against the reserve squad of the Washington Spirit, a member of the National Women’s Soccer League. The Spirit is the second professional team the Mountaineers have faced in its rigorous spring schedule. The match featured two 30-minute halves, making the Mountaineers’ threegoal victory much more impressive. Sophomore goalkeeper Michelle Newhouse was credited with three phenomenal saves early in the game before a cross from Michaela Abam found Nia Gordon in front of the net in the 23rd minute. Gordon’s shot hit the bottom right corner, just inside the post,

and broke open the scoreless game. The Mountaineers went into the shortened half with a single-goal lead, but it didn’t last long. Heather Kaleiohi, who had both scores in the team’s 2-0 win over Georgetown the previous weekend, found a breakaway opportunity following a pass from Abam and chipped a shot over the Spirit netminder to pad the WVU lead. The assist was Abam’s second of the game. “We executed on our finishes and had great moments throughout the match,” said associate head coach Lisa Stoia in an interview with WVUSports.com. “Possession-wise, we were very good and capitalized on our chances. The Washington Spirit reserves are very good, and they’ve been training at a high level. It was good for us to be out there and keep up with their play.” Just minutes later, Amandine Pierre-Louis took a shot from outside the box that hit the top crossbar and ricocheted into the back of the

net for the third Mountaineer goal. The 3-0 tally held for a Mountaineer shutout. Immediately following the win, West Virginia faced the American University Eagles in another shortened game, featuring 25-minute halves. The Mountaineers were clearly tired, having already played a 60-minute game prior, and it showed with the opening kick when the team nearly allowed a goal off a corner in just the fourth minute. Newhouse made the save, but the Eagles were given a corner kick six minutes later and this time capitalized, making it a 1-0 score in favor of American. In the 16th minute, Abam created another scoring opportunity, heading a ball from the right side, but the American goalie made the save. Gordon also nearly tied the game at the beginning of the second half, but her shot just missed the top crossbar. Hannah Abraham carried the ball up the field in the 40th minute and found Abam on a cross, but Abam’s shot didn’t find the net. The 1-0 score stood for the conclusion of the match. “Today was a good challenge for us, and now we need to focus on what we need to do to become sharper and better,” Stoia said. “We’re going to keep focusing on our chances in front of the goal, and we look forward to having another opportunity to get better.” The Mountaineers will have one more opportunity to get better this spring, as they will host Ohio State next weekend. The match will be played at Dreamswork Field, the team’s practice facility. Kickoff will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday. dasports@mail.wvu.edu

BY ROGER TURNER SPORTS WRITER @rTURNER_11

In a quick two-game home stretch, the WVU men’s soccer team surrendered a loss to Charleston on Thursday and drew with Bucknell on Saturday. A decent crowd of Mountaineer soccer fans came out to support the Mountaineers on the men’s soccer practice field for both games. Fans in attendance on their blankets and lawn chairs unfortunately witnessed the first loss of the spring for West Virginia on Thursday evening’s contest versus Charleston. Making the trip up north for a spring matchup against a superior West Virginia program did not affect the play of the Charleston Golden Eagles. The Golden Eagles defeated the Mountaineers 1-0 to hand WVU its first loss this month, capitalizing on an opportunity to outlast a Division I opponent. The Golden Eagles came into the spring after advancing to the Division II quarterfinals last season. WVU outnumbered Charleston 16 players to 14, but a seasoned team of veterans controlled the match for the Golden Eagles. Charleston capitalized on WVU’s mistakes throughout the match to stall the Mountaineers. A missed penalty kick and ball cleared off the line late in the second half of the match made the difference in Thursday’s home opener. The outcome versus Charleston may not have been what the Mountaineers were anticipating, but WVU coach Marlon LeBlanc credited his team with fantastic effort throughout its third contest of the spring.

askar salikhov/the daily athenaeum

WVU’s Jad Arslan attempts to juke a defender last year against James Madison. “I was pleased with what I saw from our guys tonight,” LeBlanc said after Thursday’s loss. “Our team faced a talented team tonight. To get another win would have been nice, but making sure we improve is our focus at this point.” Less than 48 hours after falling to Charleston, the Mountaineers returned to the field for a match versus Bucknell of the Patriot League. Playing two quick games during the homestand was not easy for West Virginia, but a solid showing of fans for both games helped the team push through on Saturday. After being shut out on Thursday, WVU ended in a 2-2 draw with Bucknell. Junior forward Felix Angerer netted the Mountaineers’ first goal in the first half to get things going. Bucknell matched WVU

in the first half, but a goal from West Virginia sophomore Jad Arslan pushed the Mountaineers ahead after intermission. Miscues plagued WVU again late in Saturday’s contest. The Mountaineers allowed a second Bucknell goal with only nine minutes remaining, giving up a penalty kick before time expired. Regardless, WVU displayed a strong effort and appeared to be more in sync than Thursday’s showing versus Charleston. LeBlanc noted his team’s performance versus Bucknell as a thorough improvement. The WVU men’s soccer team will close out the spring slate with a friendly match against WVU soccer alumni at 7 p.m. Friday at the men’s soccer practice field. dasports@mail.wvu.edu


THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

Monday April 18, 2016

CLASSIFIEDS | 9

UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS

UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS

101 MCLANE AVE. (One block from both Life Sciences Building and Honors Dorm) Available now. 1BR, AC, W/D and separate storage space on premises. $650/month with all utilities, base cable and marked personal parking space included. No pets. Available June 1. Call 304-376-1894 or 304-288-0626.

Affordable Luxury Bon Vista & The Villas

1BR WALK TO CLASS, STADIUM & HOSPITAL. Free parking and wifi. W/D, dishwasher, walk-in-closet, no pets. $675-$695 plus electric. 304-692-9296 1/BR APT ON BEECHURST. Available now. $580. 304-290-4468

Rice Rentals Stadium View Affordable Rent, Great Location, HSC, Ruby Rent starting @ $350. Eff, 1 & 2 /BR Leases start June, July & August 2016 NO PETS

304-598-7368

stadiumviewwv.com 2/BR SOUTH PARK. W/D. No Pets, $650/mo. Available now. 304-288-6374.

SPECIAL SERVICES

FURNISHED APARTMENTS

FURNISHED APARTMENTS

1 AND 2BR APARTMENTS. 573 Brockway, 2BR $675 + electric 540 Short Street, 1BR $625/all util included On-site laundry NO PETS www.mywvuhome.com 304-288-2052 or 304-288-9978.

“AFRAID YOU ARE PREGNANT?” Let’s make sure. Come to BIRTHRIGHT for free pregnancy test. Hours are Mon., Wed., Thurs., 10:00a.m.-2:00p.m., Tues. and Fri. 2:00p.m.-6:00p.m. 364 High Street / RM 216 Call 296-0277 or 1-800-550-4900 anytime.

Now Leasing for 2016

ADOPTIONS

HIGH STREET 2 - BEDROOM

SINGLE LOVING TEACHER WVU ALUMNI seeks to build a family through adoption. Please help me become a mom. 844-666-8623 844momtobe@gmail.com

FURNISHED HOUSES *4/BR FURNISHED HOME Now Leasing for 2016 Suitable for 4 or 5 persons W/D, DW, Micro, 2 Full Baths, Off-street Parking, No Pets www.perilliapartments.com 304-296-7476

Furnished, Quiet AC/Micro.,Laundry Water Included

South Park 3 - BDR Duplex

Furnished, Quiet 3.5 Bath, AC/Micro.,W/D Off Street Parking Short Walk to Campus

304.296.7476

www.perilliapartments.com LEASE

1, 2 BR APT PLUS 4 BR HOUSE. Most or all utilities paid. W/D. Free parking. No pets. 304-276-6239.

NO PETS

NOW LEASING FOR MAY 2016

BENTTREE COURT

8TH STREET AND BEECHURST

AVALON APARTMENTS NEAR EVANSDALE -LAW SCHOOL

1BR-2BR (2Bath)- 3BR (3Bath)

All Utilities Included! Cable - Internet Washer / Dryer Parking Central Heat and Air Walk in Closets Dishwasher / Microwave Private Balconies 24 Hr Emergency Maintenance On Site Management Modern Fire Safety Features Furnished Optional On Inter-campus Bus Route

Other 2,3,4 BR Units Close to Campus w/ Similar Amenities

“Get More For Less” Call Today

FOR THE FINEST IN STUDENT HOUSING go to: JEWELMANLLC.COM or call: 304-288-1572 or 304-288-9662

UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS

304-296-3606

www.benttreecourt.com

2 - 4 BR. 9 MONTH LEASE. Starting August. Call for details 304-284-9634 2 BR 2 BTH $850 PLUS UTILITIES. 1 person special price. Located near Law School. Call Jeff about $250 referral fee 304-6859300. 393 Dille Street. 3 BR LARGE ROOMS downtown/ Star City $1100/mth utilities included, no pets, 304-599-6257 3 & 4 BEDROOMS IN SOUTH PARK and 3 & 6 Bedrooms Campus area. W/D, & many more desirable amenities. Call for more information. 304-292-5714 3 BR 2 BTH on Battele. Available now. $900 plus utilites. 304-290-4468. 3 BR ON BEECHURST . $1050 month + all utilities. Available now ($350 per person) No pets. 304-290-4468. 4 BR 2 BTH Apartment. Larger than most available. Parking. W/D. Disposal. AC. D/W. Very near campus. $450 per person. 304-594-1200 1,2 and 3/BR Starting at $425 Super Nice Central Air Downtown, W/D HTMProperties.com 304-685-3243

NOW LEASING For May 2016-2017 Downtown & Evansdale Locations

Now Leasing for 2016 • Apartments, Homes and Town Houses 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5 person units • South Park, High Street, Health Sciences • Car Free Access - Walk ability • Furnished • On Site Management Team • D/W, W/D, A/C, Microwave • Laundry Facilities • Generous Lighted Free Parking • Along Bus Route MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

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Spacious 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms Furnished/Unfurnished Washer/Dryer Pets Welcome Free Off Street Parking Garages Available 24 Hr. Emergency Maintenance

Our convenient locations put you exactly where you want to be… Please call us today! 304-598-3300 8am-5pm M-F

www.perilliapartments.com

304-296-7476

B Renting for May 2016 Eff., 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms * Pets Welcome * 24 Hour Emergency Maintenance * Next to Football Stadium & Hospital * Free Wireless Internet Cafe * State of the Art Fitness Center * Recreation Area Includes Direct TV’s, ESPN, NFL NBA, MLB, Packages * Mountain Line Bus Every 15 Minutes

n Th I e

Monday - Thursday 8am - 7pm Friday 8am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 4pm Sunday 12pm - 4pm

AUTOMOBILES FOR SALE

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CASH PAID!! WE BUY CARS and trucks. Any make! Any model! Any condition! 304-282-2560

Prices starting at $550 Security Deposit $200 Walk in Closets, Jacuzzi Balcony, Elevators W/D, DW Garages, Storage Units Sparkling Heated Pool 2 Minutes to Hospitals, Downtown and Shopping Center

NO PETS

24 Hr Maintenance / Security

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www.morgantownapartments.com

PRETE RENTAL APARTMENTS EFF: 1BR : 2BR:

NOW LEASING UNFURNISHED / FURNISHED

Prices Starting at $650 Security Deposit $200 2 Bedroom 1 Bath

304-599-4407

Barrington North NOW LEASING FOR 2016

24 Hour Maintenance/Security Laundry Facilities 2 Minutes to Hospitals, Down Town and Shopping Center Public Transportation

NO PETS

Quiet Peaceful Neighborhood

304-599-6376 www.morgantownapartments.com BLOCKS FROM DOWNTOWN CAMPUS. Wall Street Apartments. 1-2-3 bedrooms available in May. Month to Month leases. Dan Shearer 304-685-6859. GREAT 3 BR IN BEVERLY AVE. W/D. A/C. Off-street parking. Pets considered. 304-282-0136. LARGE, MODERN, 2BR. University Ave/Star City. W/D, Off-street parking. No pets. $650/plus utilities. 304-692-1821

NOW SHOWING FOR 2016. 1, 2 & 3 BR Apts. Downtown & South Park. Call 304-296-5931 for info. TERA PROPERTIES, NEW 1 & 2 BR/ 2 Bath Apts. $635-950+ electric. Locations include: Lewis, Stewart, Irwin Streets & Idlewood Dr. Walking distance to Downtown/Hospital. No Pets. 304-290-7766 or 304-288-0387. www.rentalswv.com

e Center Of It

Al l

225, 227 Jones Avenue 1-4/BR Excellent Condition & Spacious $395 each + utilities. No Pets!

FREE RENT ONE MONTH

ABSOLUTELY NO PETS WWW.PRETERENTAL.COM

DOWNTOWN APARTMENTS 524 Mclane Ave

3/BD, 2/Bth, New Kitchen, DW, W/D $400 per person, plus utilities

387 High St (Pita Pit Building) 2/BD Furnished $515 per person with utilities 3/BD Furnished $485 per person with utilities Laundry Facility on-site

409 High St (Tailpipe Building)

2/BD with Balcony $500-515 per person plus gas and electric Laundry Facility on-site

211 Willey St (Beside Panera)

2/BD $600 per person plus electric and water

409 High St

$525 plus gas and electric New kitchen / bath July / August Leases

www.Motownapts.com Call or Text

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SMITH RENTALS, LLC

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● Houses ● 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments $500 - $900 per month

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Now Leasing Thru June 2016

FREE PARKING 12 Month

304-685-3457 Rent One LLC E.J. Stout

UNFURNISHED HOUSES 3 BR 2BTH NEWLY REMODELED. W/D. Off-street parking. Available May 16. $360 per person plus utilities. 828 Ridgeway Ave. 412-287-9917. 4BR, 2BTH 1 MILE FROM HOSPITAL. $425/per bedroom. Deposit, lease and no pets. Available June 1st. 304-216-1355 5BR HOUSE across Walnut Street Bridge. Living Room, Dinning Room, Kitchen, 2BTHS. Available 2016-2017. Contact Nicole: 304-290-8972

Office Hours

Lease • Deposit • No Pets

1 & 2 Bedroom 2 Bath Apts

OFF-STREET PARKING EVANSDALE / STAR CITY LOCALLY OWNED ON-SITE MAINTENANCE MOST UNITS INCLUDE: HEAT, WATER & GARBAGE SECURITY DEPOSIT REQUIRED MOUNTAIN LINE BUS SERVICE EVERY 10 MINUTES MINUTES FROM PRT

NOW RENTING 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6BR APARTMENTS on Prospect and Spruce for 2016-2017. Contact Nick: 304-292-1792

1,2,4 BR APARTMENTS. $500-800/mth. W/D. Parking. No pets. Available May. 304-288-6374. 1&2/BR APARTMENTS Available May Gee Properties 304-365-2787

FURNISHED APARTMENTS

3BR UNION AVENUE. Available May. W/D, new carpet, close to town and campus, parking. $450/person or all utilities included option. Please call/text: 304-290-3347

Now Leasing 2016

May and August Leases Downtown, Sunnyside Evansdale & Medical Center 1 & 2 Bedroom Apts 1 & 2 Bathroom 24 Hr Maintenance & Enforcement Officers

Now Offering Individual Leases

304.413.0900

www.metropropertymgmt.net

FREE ONE-MONTH RENT 617 NORTH ST. 4BR/2 baths, W/D. Single-car garage. 5 car parking, exc. condition, $395/each + utilities. 304-685-3457 AVAILABLE 5/8/15. 3 BR house. Recently remodeled. Partially furnished. Close to campus. Off-street parking. 304-296-8801. AVAILABLE MAY. 1YR/LEASE OR AUGUST 9MTH/LEASE. NEAR CAMPUS. 3-4/BR 2/BA. D/W, W/D, Off-street parking. Full basement, backyard, covered-porch. $360BR/plus utilities. No Pets. 304-282-0344.

HELP WANTED

thedaonline.com Pet Friendly

www.kingdomrentals.com

BON VISTA AND VILLAS hiring seasonal housekeeping staffs. $9.50 per hour. Must have own vehicle. Start date 04/28/2016. Monday to Friday. 7:30a.m. to 4p.m. Apply in person.

MARIO’S FISHBOWL NOW HIRING Full or part-time experienced cooks, servers and experienced bartenders. Also hiring full or part time summer worker at a children summer camp. Apply in person at 704 Richwood Ave. or e-mail resume to fishbowl@mountain.net

Minutes from class and night life

August and May Leases Individual Leases 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments

304.413.0900

Downtown Off Spruce Street!

www.metropropertymgmt.net

THE HILTON GARDEN INN IS TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: Line & Prep cook, 5a-1p &230p-1030p (open availability with some cooking experience preferred). AM Servers 5am-1pm, PM Servers 4p-11p & Banquet Servers. (MUST be available on weekends) Housekeeping: Room attendants, Laundry attendants, Lobby attendant (Full & Part time) Part-time front desk (2-3 days a week) 7a-3p, 3p-11p & 11p-7a shifts (Open availability preferred) Part-time Sales assistant (2-3 days a week) hourly position. Please apply in person at the hotel. No phone calls please.


10 | SPORTS

THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

Monday April 18, 2016

Baseball

2016-2017 CO-ED BJ Myers’ leadership carries WVU WVU CHEERLEADING TRYOUT!

BJ Myers throws a pitch in Sunday’s win over Kansas State.

BY ALEC GEARTY SPORTS WRITER @GEARTY83

Informational Meeting: Tuesday, April 26, 2016 at 6:30 p.m. in the Mountainlair Rhododendron Room Tryout Dates: April 30th and May 1st

For more information, please visit our website at: http://www.wvusports.com/page.cfm?section=8463

Entering the season, BJ Myers was considered one of the players likely to be a leader for a team that welcomed 14 freshmen. After Sunday’s comeback victory over Kansas State, it’s safe to say that Myers fits into that role. After giving up a threerun home run earlier in the afternoon, Myers regained his confidence and allowed a mere three hits through the five innings that followed. West Virginia University head coach Randy Mazey had no other choice but to ride Myers’ hot hand and Myers retired the Kansas State batters in order with WVU down 4-1. At that point, after Myers had tossed eight innings and struck out five, the dugout was lifeless. Hope was gone, and all was quiet; Myers took it upon himself to wake up his team while there was still a chance. “He came into the dugout in that eighth inning and it was quiet,” said junior Ray Guerrini. “BJ took it upon himself to rally the troops. He said, ‘Let’s go, we’re not out of it,’ and I think that’s what sparked it.” West Virginia batters found themselves with a

three-run deficit and four outs away from a series sweep that would put their season on the edge, but Myers had the dugout alive. The Mountaineers went on to tie the game off Braden Zarbnisky’s RBI single that scored two. Darius Hill singled home the eventual winning run, and one of the first Mountaineers to jump the dugout barricade was Myers. “If I could talk tomorrow, it’ll be a miracle,” Myers said. “I was going nuts. It’s a great feeling knowing we go from down four, with no life in the dugout. We come up, put a five-spot and end up getting the win. I think that might’ve saved our season.” After a freshman campaign where he cracked the top-three in the rotation, Myers has settled into his role amongst the team, as a growth in maturity has been recognizable to head coach Randy Mazey. “Myers, who normally you have to calm down, has a calming effect on the rest of the team,” Mazey said. “He’s changed his mentality. He was in complete control today.” Last year, Myers finished the year 2-5, getting adjusted to the college level and looking to upperclassmen for leadership. Midway through his sophomore year, however, the Flower Mound,

Askar Salikhov/The Daily Athenaeum

Texas native was noticed by leading by example by his teammates, not just his coach, as seen in Sunday’s matchup. “He has a lot of confidence,” Guerrini said. “He was running off the field with some swag.” His “swag” has rubbed off on his teammates, who agreed after the game that it seemed as if this win was what the team has been fighting for all season long. For most of the series, Kansas State had essentially sucked the life out of the Mountaineers, but it all starts with a leader to put the life back in his “troops,” as Guerrini called them. Myers turned the start into what he called “his best start this year, minus one pitch.” After being swept in their only conference series loss before this weekend’s matchup, it wasn’t ideal for the Mountaineers to drop the first two games to a team that is dead-last in the conference standings. On the score sheet, it was Braden Zarbnisky and Darius Hill who led the Mountaineer comeback. However, if records were being kept on who kept the Mountaineers from giving up, BJ Myers was the man on Sunday. dasports@mail.wvu.edu


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