The DA 02-26-2015

THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

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

da

Thursday February 26, 2015

Volume 127, Issue 103

www.THEDAONLINE.com

Elections code amendments pass by corey mcdonald staff writer @dailyathenaeum

Active debate was incited over Resolution 201202 at the Student Government Association meeting Wednesday night - which will amend certain codes regarding student body elections and campaigns - along with passing a resolution against House Bill 28-81.

Several components of the Elections Code were revised for next year’s student government elections regarding campaigning tactics, spending limits for candidates and petitions.

Expenditure budgets for official candidates seeking executive office was reduced by half. Last year’s expenditure maximum of $14,250 per ticket was reduced to $7,125.

The amount of signatures needed for petitions of candidacy was also amended.

Last year, a president or vice president ticket needed signatures by at least 5 percent of the student body by the filing deadline, while candidates for Board of Governors and Athletic Council needed 2.5 percent of the student body’s signatures.

These provisions were amended to 1,000 signa-

tures, about 3.33 percent of the student body, for a potential president or vice president and 500 signatures, about 1.66 percent of the student body, for a Board of Governors or Athletic Council candidacy.

Many potential candidates were short of this substantial percentage needed to run for candidacy, and thus many contenders were disqualified from seeking an elected seat.

An amendment was also passed regarding campaigning tactics in classrooms. Proposed by Governor Joy Wang, revisions were made to forbid poten-

tial candidates from campaigning during class hours unless given permission by the professor of the course.

This revision was debated heavily and initially forbade any campaigning during class hours at all. Board members brought to attention that campaigning during class hours takes away from the education students are paying for - each class when broken down represents a fairly large sum of money being paid by students’ tuition costs.

Professors attending the meeting commented that this could be viewed as educational and would en-

courage students to actively participate in student government elections.

“We wanted to amend the process to allow every student a better chance to participate in the elections,” said Student Body President Chris Nyden. “And tonight was a big step forward.”

Daniel Brewster, adviser to the SGA, also brought attention to a bill being moved through the House of Representatives - House Bill 2881 - that would nullify any local discrimination protection laws. This bill would circumvent local policy of small towns or municipalities, as well as institutions

the ticket to

RIDE

Morgantown, W.Va. might soon see alternative transportation like Uber by taylor jobin staff writer @dailyathenaeum

With interest in the popular ride-sharing service Uber growing around the country and continued dissatisfaction w i t h Morgan-

town’s only taxi service, Uber may be coming to Morgantown sooner than you think.

“We’re eager to see smart legislation passed in the West Virginia Legislature that promotes competition and choice, and enables ridesharing to be part of the state’s transportation ecosystem,” said Kaitlin Durkosh, an Uber spokesperson.

West Virginia Senate Bill 385 is currently making its way t h r o u g h the Senate Judiciary Com-

mittee. If it passes through the Senate and the House, it would remove the current legal ambiguities for Transportation Network Companies, like Uber, to operate freely in West Virginia.

The bill would officially lay down the ground rules for TNCs because, as of now, West Virginia has no statutes that pertain to such businesses.

It would make TNCs a completely separate entity from West Virginia’s taxi services, which need approval by the

Public Service Commission to be certified. That is a long and arduous process, which includes a petition phase that lets outside forces petition against the creation of the proposed taxi company.

TNCs are the “transportation of a passenger bet w e e n points chosen by the passenger and prearranged with a T N C

see TAXI on PAGE 2

Eberly readies to select new dean Three candidates to be the new dean of the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at West Virginia University visited campus.

“We are bringing three tremendously exciting individuals to campus,” said Dan Robison, dean of the Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design and chair of the screening committee, in a press release. “As the largest and most academically diversified college on campus, Eberly needs a leader with both vision and exceptional leadership abilities. All of these candidates have both.”

All of the candidates visited WVU, each for two days and one night. Here’s a short breakdown of each of the candidates:

Cynthia Young Young is a professor of mathematics and associate dean for the College of Sciences at University of Central Florida. She found herself at UCF in 1997 and stayed there for 18 years.

In addition to her 12 years of leadership experience as an administrator, Young has coauthored more than 60 books, conference proceedings and journals.

Charles Brody Brody is a professor of sociology and has been an associate dean for academic affairs at the University of North Carolina Charlotte since 2010.

Brody served as the department chairman at UNC from 2001-09.

Currently, he works with graduate students in research areas and has published more than 25 articles and chapters in his field.

Christopher Long Long is the associate dean for graduate and undergraduate education and a professor of philosophy at Penn State.

Long came to Penn State in 2004 and was appointed to his current position in 2010.

He cofounded the Public Philosophy Journal, which has received more than $780,000 in funding. Long keeps a blog of recent work and research in philosophy at http://cplong.org.

like West Virginia University, to have non-discrimination policies.

The bill would allow employers to deny or terminate employees simply on the basis of being homosexual.

“This is a clear attack on LGBT people,” Brewster said. “It’s masked under this message of interstate commerce. The idea essentially is that they want a uniform policy across the state that does not protect groups explicitly listed in state code.”

Brewster called upon students to act against this act of discrimination.

see SGA on PAGE 2

New org gives aid to families of pediatric cancer patients by cameron gleason correspondent @dailyathenaeum

Students Optimistic For Curing Kids, or S.O.C.K.-IT, is a new West Virginia University on-campus student organization with a mission to provide support to children diagnosed with pediatric cancer in West Virginia. Fundraising, spreading awareness throughout the WVU community and visiting children in the hospital are only a few things S.O.C.K.-IT has planned for the near future.

Unlike many charities for cancer, S.O.C.K.-IT’s primary goal is to make sure families suffering from pediatric cancer are receiving aid directly, as opposed to funds going straight toward research purposes.

The idea for S.O.C.K.-IT came from founder Jordan Pruett. He approached Emma’s Touch, a Princeton, W.Va., foundation that financially and directly assists families in the state who have a child suffering from cancer. Pruett set out to form an organization of students who could do something similar, and through the help of Emma’s Touch, S.O.C.K.-IT was created.

“Emma’s Touch helped S.O.C.K.-IT become a reality,” Pruett said. “I am now a board member for the organization and oversee S.O.C.K.-IT. Emma’s Touch is providing the foundation for us to help the kids here in West Virginia. Emma’s Touch will continue to help us by seeing that the money raised continues to help kids here in West Virginia.”

Although there are S.O.C.K.-IT chapters at other West Virginia colleges, until the WVU chapter was founded, there were almost no established organizations with a purpose to reach out to the northern parts of the state regarding this cause. One in four elementary schools in the nation has an enrolled student with cancer, so there is a need for programs like S.O.C.K.-IT in all parts of the state.

“Basically, from Charleston up, there’s not a group specifically for pediatric cancer patients. There’s no support group or fundraising group,” said WVU S.O.C.K.-IT Chapter President Layne Veneri. “So really, the WVU chapter is the only one in the northern part of the state. There is a need, and we have the best medical facility in the state.”

WVU S.O.C.K.-IT’s first official meeting is tonight at 7:30 p.m. in room G15 of the Life Sciences Building. Just in the last week the current roster of members has more than doubled.

Veneri hopes the University will help the program so the organization can continue to grow substantially in the future.

“We want everyone to know what we do.

We want everyone to know the cause, and really we would like to see the University back it,” Veneri said. “There is a huge need, and I think with the University backing it, we would grow in membership and what we’re able to give financially.”

To learn more about S.O.C.K.-IT, visit http://sockit.studentorgs.wvu.edu/. danewsroom@mail.wvu.edu

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MEET THE STARS

INSIDE

Meet the Dancing with our Mountaineer Stars contestants A&E PAGE 5

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News: 1, 2, 4 Opinion: 3 A&E: 5, 6 Sports: 7, 9, 10, 12 Campus Connection: 8 Puzzles: 8 Classifieds: 10, 11

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CONTACT US Newsroom 304-293-5092 or DAnewsroom@mail.wvu.edu Advertising 304-293-4141 or DA-Ads@mail.wvu.edu Classifieds 304-293-4141 or DA-Classifieds@mail.wvu.edu Fax 304-293-6857

JUST A TOY Commentary: One columnists provides a defense of Barbie, other fictional characters OPINION PAGE 3

COACH OF THE YEAR Breaking down Huggins' season SPORTS PAGE 9

THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

2 | NEWS

Thursday February 26, 2015

West Virginia lawmakers pass ban on abortions after 20 weeks

Jane Rosenberg/AP

In this courtroom drawing, defendant Akhror Saidakmetov, left; an interpreter, center; and defendant Abdurasul Hasanovich Juraboev, appear at federal court in New York on terrorism charges, Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015. Saidakmetov and Juraboev are two of the three men arrested on charges of plotting to travel to Syria to join the Islamic State group and wage war against the U.S.

3 in NY, Florida accused of plot to help Islamic State group NEW YORK (AP) — Three men were arrested Wednesday on charges of plotting to help the Islamic State group wage war against the United States, and federal officials said one of them spoke of shooting President Barack Obama or planting a bomb on Coney Island.

Akhror Saidakhmetov was arrested at Kennedy Airport, where he was attempting to board a flight to Istanbul on his way to Syria, authorities said. Abdurasul Hasanovich Juraboev had a ticket to travel to Istanbul next month and was arrested in Brooklyn, federal prosecutors said. The two were held without bail after a brief court appearance.

A third defendant, Abror Habibov, is accused of helping fund Saidakhmetov's efforts to join the Islamic State group after Saidakhmetov's mother took away his passport to try to prevent him from traveling. Habibov was ordered held without bail in Florida.

The three, who are from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, are charged

with attempt and conspiracy to provide material support to a terrorist organization. If convicted, each could face a maximum of 15 years in prison.

"This is real," New York Police Department Commissioner William Bratton said. "This is the concern about the lone wolf, inspired to act without ever going to the Mideast."

The Department of Justice has charged roughly 20 people in the past year with planning to travel to the Middle East to fight alongside militants like the Islamic State group, which controls parts of Syria and Iraq. Federal officials have been concerned about Americans going overseas to train with these groups and returning with plots to carry out attacks at home.

Saidakhmetov is a Brooklyn resident and citizen of Kazakhstan. Juraboev is a Brooklyn resident from Uzbekistan.

Habibov is also from Uzbekistan and had been in the U.S. legally, but his visa had expired. He was appointed a public de-

TAXI

Virginia. It began running in Pittsburgh a year ago. However, it did so without applying to be an experimental service from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, the regulating entity for taxi services, according to an article in the Charleston Gazette.

Uber didn’t file the proper application with the PUC in Allegheny County until April last year, and was issued cease and desist orders on July 1 because it was still operating without proper authority, according to that same article in the Charleston Gazette. Uber now operates under an emergency temporary authority.

The Pennsylvania Legislature has proposed to regulate rideshare companies separately from traditional taxi services, much like SB 385 would do for West Virginians.

Since Uber began running in Pittsburgh, DUIs are down nearly 10 percent. The same is true for Seattle.

In 2011, 2012 and 2013, University Taxi, a yet to be certified taxi company previously owned by Jim Price and now Anthony Spagnuolo, applied to be certified by the PSC. They were denied every time for failing to show financial viability.

Spagnuolo said he would try again in the future, but

Continued from page 1 driver through the use of a TNC digital network or software application,” per the bill.

It’s a service where a passenger prearranges the pickup and drop-off location with the driver through the TNC’s app. All payments are made electronically, as cash payments are forbidden in the bill, and an insurance policy that would ensure that any trip taken on the Uber platform is covered up to $1 million per incident. This means drivers’ liability to third parties are covered up to $1 million from the moment a driver accepts a trip through the trip’s conclusion. The policy would be primary to a driver’s personal auto coverage, according to Durkosh.

“Being a technology company, we’re able to see when people are downloading and opening the Uber app in a particular location. What we’ve seen is thousands of West Virginians trying to get a safe ride through Uber. There’s a clear demand for Uber in West Virginia,” Durkosh said.

Uber currently runs in every state surrounding West

fender on Wednesday.

Federal prosecutors say Juraboev, 24, first came to the attention of law enforcement in August, when he posted on an Uzbek-language website that propagates the Islamic State ideology.

"Greetings! We too want to pledge our allegiance and commit ourselves while not present there," he wrote, according to federal authorities. "Is it possible to commit ourselves as dedicated martyrs anyway while here?

"What I'm saying is, to shoot Obama and then get shot ourselves, will it do?

That will strike fear in the hearts of infidels."

Officials said they believed he planned to travel from Turkey to Syria to join the terror group. Prosecutors say Saidakhmetov, 19, also threatened an attack in the U.S. if he was unable to join the Islamic State. Juraboev's plans included attacks against Obama or planting a bomb on Coney Island, officials said.

Federal officials say Juraboev identified Saidakhmetov as a friend with a shared ideology. he does not know when.

Financial viability would not be an issue for Uber. It is valued at over $41 billion, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Many students have expressed frustration with only having one taxi company, Yellow Cab, currently operating in Morgantown.

“Extremely unreliable. I had to use cabs just a few times last year,” said Iryna Kovtoniuk, a sophomore finance student. “They called me whenever they arrived and they didn’t even tell me what side they were on, and then they got angry at me when I couldn’t find them. And then one time, I couldn’t even get ahold of the cab when I was trying to do that.”

When asked what a ridesharing service like Uber would do for Morgantown, Kovtoniuk said, “I think that would be great. I mean, firstly, just bringing in the competition to Yellow Cab would already make Yellow Cab, better because they would need more people to go with them. And secondly, Uber would be doing better than Yellow Cab (so they) would have to level up to be with them, or, you know, whatever happens to that business afterwards.”

Celebrating 31 Years in Same Location!

danewsroom@mail.wvu.edu

The two exchanged messages on how to get overseas, and Saidakhmetov and an informant watched videos of Islamic State training camps in Syria, according to court papers.

Saidakhmetov told the informant in September that he wanted to travel to Syria for jihad, or holy war, but that his concerned mother confiscated his passport, the complaint said. He said he would lie and tell her he planned to go to Uzbekistan to visit relatives. When he called to ask for his passport back, she hung up the phone.

"The flow of foreign fighters to Syria represents an evolving threat to our country and to our allies," said state U.S. Attorney Loretta Lynch, who is Obama's choice to be U.S. attorney general.

Saidakhmetov's attorney, Adam Perlmutter, said his client was a "young, innocent kid" who would plead not guilty.

"This is the type of case that highlights everything that is wrong with how the Justice Department approaches these cases," Perlmutter said.

Juraboev's attorney had no immediate comment.

Saidakhmetov booked a flight to Turkey on Feb. 19 and seemed like just another "regular American teenager," said workers who helped him at Nil Travel in Coney Island.

"He was just like anyone around us. He was totally normal. He wasn't nervous," said assistant

manager Frank Cakir. "It's just scary."

Cakir said Saidakhmetov asked for the least expensive flight to Turkey and paid $571 by credit card for a round-trip ticket.

Habibov, 30, operates kiosks that repair phones and sell kitchenware in malls in Jacksonville, Florida; Savannah, Georgia; and Philadelphia. He employed Saidakhmetov last fall and winter and said he would help fund his travel, prosecutors said.

The two were spotted in Brooklyn purchasing a ticket for Saidakhmetov to travel to Turkey, officials said.

Farhod Sulton, president of the Brooklyn-based Vatandosh Uzbek-American Federation, knew Habibov and said he was a "lost man."

"Abror was not educated. He was so eager to learn Islam, and he had a lot of questions," Sulton said. "A couple of times I remember warning him about his thoughts and where he was getting his information."

The Islamic State group largely consists of Sunni militants from Iraq and Syria but has also drawn fighters from across the Muslim world and Europe.

The FBI for the last year has expressed worries about the flow of Western fighters to Syria.

B ratto n sa i d t h i s was the first public case in New York, but he hinted at ongoing investigations.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — Lawmakers are shipping Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin a bill that bans abortion after 20 weeks, despite the Democrat's veto of a similar proposal last year over constitutionality concerns.

With little debate, West Virginia senators cleared the ban Wednesday. The House of Delegates passed it overwhelmingly earlier this month after a more heated back-and-forth.

The action moves to Tomblin, an anti-abortion advocate who vetoed the bill by the Democratic-run Legislature last year. He has said he would veto the same bill again if the now-Republican majority approved it.

The measure passed the Senate 29-5, with most Democrats in favor. Lawmakers only need a simple majority to overturn a veto.

The proposal bans abortions after 20 weeks, with some exemptions for women in medical emergencies. Rape and incest aren't exempted, despite Democrats' effort to try to include them.

Democrats also weren't able to amend the cutoff to 22 weeks.

The proposal would also prohibit abortions when women have psychological conditions that could lead them to hurt or kill themselves.

Even for abortions that would be exempted, the bill requires doctors to terminate pregnancies in a way that gives "the best opportunity for the fetus to survive," unless the process would kill or irreparably harm the mother.

Doctors and other medical workers who perform banned abortions could face discipline from a medical board, and potentially lose their licenses. Women who get abortions wouldn't be punished.

The bill is based on the assertion that fetuses can feel pain at 20 weeks, which is disputed in medical research.

The West Virginia chapter of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists opposes the bill, saying it doesn't support legislation not based on sound science.

In 2011, the last year with data available, there were six abortions after 20 weeks in West Virginia, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Both bills resemble a law struck down in Arizona in 2013 that the U.S. Supreme Court later decided not to reconsider.

Ten states have some version of a 20-week ban, according to the abortion rights nonprofit Guttmacher Institute.

Spacewalking astronaut safe after water leaks into helmet CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — A spacewalking astronaut ended up with unwanted water in his helmet Wednesday after breezing through a cable and lube job outside the International Space Station.

The leak was scarily reminiscent of a near-drowning outside the orbiting complex nearly two years ago.

This time, the amount of water was relatively small — essentially a big blob of water floating inside Terry Virts' helmet. In the summer of 2013, another spacewalking astronaut's helmet actually flooded. He barely made it back inside.

Virts was never in any danger, Mission Control stressed, and he never reported any water during his 6½ hours outside.

This was the second spacewalk in five days for NASA astronauts Virts and Butch Wilmore, who encountered no trouble while routing cables for future American crew capsules, due to arrive in a couple years.

Three spacewalks had been planned, with the next one Sunday, but its status was uncertain given Wednesday's mishap.

Managers will meet Fri-

day, as planned, to discuss the situation.

Wednesday's spacewalk had just ended and the two astronauts were inside the air lock, with the hatches closed, when the incident occurred. The air lock was being repressurized when Virts first noticed the water. He said he reported it about a minute later.

The absorbent pad inside the back of Virts' helmet was damp, but not saturated, said Italian astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti, one of the station's six crew members.

The pad became standard procedure after the 2013 emergency.

Cristoforetti removed Virts' helmet and wiped his face with a towel once he was out of the air lock and reunited with his colleagues. She noted that his neck was wet and cold.

The water — cold to the touch with a chemical taste — most likely came from the suit's cooling system, the source of the leak in 2013. Mission Control described the amount of water as "minor," at least compared with 2013.

Virts, a 47-year-old Air Force colonel, spent about

half of Wednesday's spacewalk lubricating screws, brackets and tracks on the end of the space station's giant robot arm. The snares had gotten a bit creaky over the past year, increasing the motor current, and engineers hoped the grease would make operations smoother.

"We're the cable guys.

Now we're the grease monkeys — or I am," Virts radioed.

"Yep, you guys have a life after NASA," replied Mission Control. "That's good work."

SGA

Continued from page 1 “I am asking you as student leaders to make a public stance on this,” Brewster said. “This is a potential attack on all students of this campus who are LGBT.” Resolution 2015-03 was promptly written up and signed by the entire Board of Governors combating House Bill 28-81, advocating for fair and equitable laws citing WVU’s non-discrimination policy. danewsroom@mail.wvu.edu

3

OPINION

Thursday February 26, 2015

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

editorial

Letting each community speak Recently, West Virginia has seen a lot of revolutionary legislation. Several of these new rulings have served to thrust the state into a more progressive light, such as the legalization of same-sex marriage. However, Monday legislation took a giant step back by introducing HB 2881, labeled the West Virginia Intrastate Commerce Improvement Act. Following its introduction Wednesday, it passed the Committee on Government Organization with a vote of 16-8 and will continue on to the full House.

This legislation is very clear about its intent.

“No county, municipality or other political subdivision may adopt or enforce a local law, ordinance, resolution, rule or policy that creates a protected classification or prohibits discrimination on a basis not contained in state law,” reads the introduced version of this document.

The main group this is working to exclude is the LG-

BTQ+ community. The bill would serve to null and void legislation here in Morgantown, Charleston and even the smallest of cities, Thurmond, which protects citizens from discrimination based on sexual orientation.

It is clear through the actions of this state’s citizens, this is not what West Virginians want. From the state capital to small communities, the tone is acceptance not discrimination. By just looking at the text of this bill, we see the major issue here is that the state is against prohibiting discrimination. In 2015, a ban on laws supporting inclusiveness should be far from our minds.

According to the statement of purpose, the act is an attempt to make laws uniform to promote commerce in the state. However, by excluding entire communities of citizens from protection, this act will likely serve more as a deterrent for the kinds of businesses the state needs.

It is also taking away the

ability for individual communities to decide what is best for themselves. It has already been decided in Morgantown that citizens want these laws in place. State government has now tread on the rights of cities.

This already heavily debated legislation has sparked interest from organizations around the state. In a report

by WV MetroNews, Andrew Schneider, the executive director of Fairness West Virginia, expressed his concerns for this invasion of rights.

“HB 2881 not only prohibits the rights of communities to govern themselves, but it also interferes with democracy in its purest form: City and town councils,” Schneider told WV MetroNews.

It is clear members of the House need to spend more time listening to citizens and looking into what the majority of the community wants.

We must allow communities to speak for themselves. daperspectives@mail.wvu.edu

blogs.charlestondailymail.com

commentary

Looking forward to a more optimistic America

theunboundedspirit.com

kody goff guest columnist @dailyathenaeum

Will the future be a better place? These days, a lot of Americans say “no.” Popular media franchises like “The Hunger Games,” X-Men and “The Walking Dead” keep telling us we, as a civilized species, aren’t going to get much further than we are today.

If it’s not our own stupidity and greed we fall victim to, it’s aliens, zombies or some other threat. Why does this pessimistic and dystopian view prevail in modern culture and among the general public?

Many authors in the 1950s and early 1960s envisioned the future as a glimmering technological wonder in which mankind had few dilemmas, and it was the incredibly advanced technology or perhaps even extra-terrestrials that were the problem.

“The Jetsons” drove their flying cars to and from work in floating cities. Toward the end of this era, America landed men on the moon. It wasn’t a risky bet to say there was much more to come.

This all seemed to change during and after Vietnam.

These were the years that saw the rise of numerous counter-cultures. This was a war few wanted or sup-

ported, and it was evident for years to come. The Cold War had been in full swing for some time now, but Vietnam was a point of no return for America.

After the nuclear scares of the Cold War and the filmed atrocities of the Vietnam conflict, more and more films and novels espressed a future devoid of hope or life.

While dystopias had existed in fiction for a long time, with H. G. Wells and George Orwell using them as primary plot points, the 1960s and following decades brought them to the forefront of the American imagination.

“Planet of the Apes” presented a future in which man was enslaved by highly-

evolved primates, millennia after a fiery atomic apocalypse. In “Soylent Green,” the people of overpopulated New York City survive on recycled human meat.

It didn’t stop there, either.

This “future imperfect” mentality continued well into the ‘80s. Films like “The Terminator,” “Mad Max” and “Blade Runner” all predicted grim, gritty and inhumane futures.

Today, with the economy not looking too great, the talks of our climate slowly dying and technology consuming the lives of the young and old, it’s easy to see why these kinds of fictions are still very popular.

However, as everyone knows, history repeats itself.

We as a species have faced problems much like the ones we are up against today.

When everyone in the U.S. and the Soviet Union was terrified of the other’s nukes, what came out of that? No cities were obliterated, no mutants were created and humanity forged ahead.

The fictions named above are all great works by brilliant minds. They can teach lessons, provoke thought or perhaps they’re just interesting and fun. Ultimately though, they are, in fact, fiction.

Humanity grew up in uncertainty. We’re hard-wired to find negatives in each and every situation; it’s why complaining is something

that can bring so many people together. Worry, doubt and pessimism are all part of what we are.

The real challenge is to overcome this. If negativity is the base of human instinct and feeling, then shouldn’t we strive to utilize our superior minds and think more positively? Optimism for the future created the civilization we now live in. Of course, realism is important. We’re not quite at flying cars or instantaneous space travel just yet, but one must always hope.

You never know when the next Isaac Newton or Nikola Tesla will come along and revolutionize technology. daperspectives@mail.wvu.edu

commentary

In defense of Barbie and Disney Princesses: Taking image complaints too far westley thompson associate A&e editor @westleyt93

Every day we are bombarded with images of what women should look like. For good or for bad, commercialism permeates every strata of American society.

Television commercials reach us at home, showing us how to stay slim and fit.

Magazines find us at supermarkets, showcasing celebrities and models airbrushed to display standards beyond the realm of human possibility.

In many cases, the media and advertisers have gone too far. For years now, generations of girls have grown up with body issues. They compare themselves to the impossible, unreal standards set by magazines and billboards and invariably come up short.

It didn’t take long for awareness of this issue to rise. People from across the country joined voices and quickly brought the dangerous side effects of overly Photoshopped advertisements to light. However, as with any

DA

good thing, some splinter factions have taken the issue too far.

In a strange and hypocritical series of events, the media has come full circle. Today every media outlet from newspapers and magazines to big television networks report on the dangers advertisers cause, while simultaneously broadcasting the very ads causing the issues.

Unfortunately, in their quest to find the next story, many outlets have expanded the scope of their body image witch hunt to include not only legitimate sources of poor body image in young girls but illegitimate sources, as well.

Barbie is no stranger to public ridicule. In the 50-plus years the popular children’s toy has been around, Barbie has been at the center of the body image debate. The doll has been a target of body image crusaders for her impossible figure, a bust-waist-hip ratio so ridiculous a human being would have to give up certain bones and organs to fit her dimensions.

Recently, Disney princesses have come under at-

playbuzz.com

tack, as well. The popular site Buzzfeed ran a gallery showing famous pop stars such as Taylor Swift and Ariana Grande Photoshopped to reflect the style and dimensions of beloved children’s cartoon characters like Ariel and Cinderella. Thanks to the magic of the Internet, viewers could utilize a slider to transform these famous singers from people to grotesque monsters with tiny waists, bulging eyes and pencil-thin wrists.

“Look! Look what girls

would be like if they actually had the bodies of their idols,” you could practically hear the self-acceptance zealots cry.

“They’d look like monsters. Is that what you want?”

No. That’s not what I or anyone wants. And I can’t help but feel these extremists are missing a key point here when it comes to our beloved Barbie and princess cartoons.

They’re caricatures. They’re not supposed to be people.

Do you see parents huddling their young boys away

from He-Man and G.I. Joe? No. And those characters have shoulders bigger than their heads. But for whatever reason, the second you slap a blond ponytail on something it becomes a danger to the psychological well-being of 8-15-year-olds worldwide.

We need to give young girls more credit than we currently do. If we trust boys to be smart enough to tell the difference between fantasy and reality, why don’t we expect the same from girls?

Surely they are capable of understanding the girl who is a doctor or vet who moonlights as an actress or singer might be fudging the numbers a bit when it comes to her hip-to-waist ratio. Especially if Jimmy down the street has grasped swinging a six-foot sword around with one freakishly muscular hand isn’t exactly possible either.

I’m not saying we shouldn’t continue to promote a positive body image among young women. That should be an utmost priority.

What advertisements promote as the ideal is far from it. Instead of being showed healthy women we are shown sick anorexics, airbrushed and propped up, an image of false beauty.

However, attacking cartoons and dolls is ludicrous and cheapens the argument.

Barbie doesn’t look real because she isn’t real, and the same holds true for Snow White and Elsa. When arguing and defending our girls, we need to learn to separate reality from fiction. daperspectives@mail.wvu.edu

Letters to the Editor can be sent to 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. Letters may be faxed to 304-293-6857 or delivered to The Daily Athenaeum.

EDITORIAL STAFF: JACOB BOJESSON, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF • JAKE JARVIS, MANAGING EDITOR • ALEXIS RANDOLPH, OPINION EDITOR • LAURA HAIGHT, CITY EDITOR • EVELYN MERITHEW, ASSOCIATE CITY EDITOR • DAVID SCHLAKE, SPORTS EDITOR • NICOLE CURTIN, ASSOCIATE SPORTS EDITOR • ASHLEY DENARDO, A&E EDITOR/WEB EDITOR • WESTLEY THOMPSON, ASSOCIATE A&E EDITOR • ABBY HUMPHREYS, THEDAONLINE.COM ASSOCIATE WEB EDITOR• DOYLE MAURER, ART DIRECTOR • CASEY VEALEY, COPY DESK CHIEF • NIKKI MARINI, SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR/CAMPUS CONNECTION EDITOR • ALAN WATERS, GENERAL MANAGER

THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

4 | NEWS

Thursday February 26, 2015

Mark J. Terrill/AP

Workers walk near a Metrolink train engine from a train that hit a truck and then derailed Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2015, in Oxnard, Calif. Three cars of the Metrolink train tumbled onto their sides, injuring dozens of people in the town 65 miles northwest of Los Angeles.

Lawyer: Trucker ran for life after stranding truck on tracks OXNARD, Calif. (AP) — A driver who abandoned his pickup truck on railroad tracks before a fiery crash with a commuter train made repeated attempts to get the vehicle off the rails and then ran for his life as the train approached, his lawyer said Wednesday.

Jose Alejandro Sanchez-Ramirez accidentally drove onto the tracks and made the situation worse by continuing forward in an attempt to get enough speed to get his wide pickup over the rails, attorney Ron Bamieh said.

When that effort failed, he tried to push the truck and then fled before impact.

“He hits his high beams trying to do something.

He’s screaming. He realizes, ‘I can’t do anything,’ and then he tries to run

so he doesn’t get killed,” Bamieh said. “He saw the impact, yes, it was a huge explosion.”

The lawyer’s account offered a different perspective on what investigators have said about the crash that injured 30 people, four critically, when the Los Angeles-bound Metrolink train derailed before dawn Tuesday.

Police said Ramirez was trying to go right at an intersection just beyond the crossing, but made the turn too soon, drove onto the tracks before the crossing arms came down and got stuck.

Other drivers have done the same thing, but they were able to get their vehicles off the tracks. In this case, however, the trailer Ramirez was towing may

have made that more difficult, Assistant Oxnard Police Chief Jason Benites said.

National Transportation Safety Board member Robert Sumwalt on Wednesday said the truck wasn’t stuck in the way vehicles sometimes get trapped between railroad crossing safety arms. He said investigators have not ruled out that the truck was stuck and will determine why it traveled 80 feet down the tracks and remained there with its parking brake engaged.

“I don’t think anybody would put a car or truck on ... railroad tracks and not try to get it off if there’s an approaching train,” Sumwalt said.

Bamieh said Ramirez’s Ford F-450 truck straddled the tracks. While he

was able to drive forward, the trailer prevented him from backing up, and he couldn’t get his wheels to clear the rails.

Police said Ramirez did not call 911 and made no immediate effort to call for help. But Bamieh said Ramirez, who doesn’t speak English well, tried to get help from a passerby, tried calling his employer and eventually reached his son to help him speak with police.

Sumwalt said the train’s video cameras that captured the crash and data recorders that tracked its speed are being analyzed to help determine what happened. Ramirez’s truck, which was heavily burned, could also yield evidence, though Sumwalt said it was a model

that typically doesn’t have a data recorder.

Police said Ramirez was found 45 minutes after the crash 1.5 miles away, though Bamieh said he was only a half-mile away and that he has phone records that show he spoke with police much sooner.

He was arrested on suspicion of leaving the scene of an accident with injuries and was expected to be arraigned Thursday.

Police would not discuss drug and alcohol test results. But Bamieh said he was told there was no sign Ramirez was impaired.

Ramirez, 54, of Yuma, Arizona, pleaded guilty to drunken driving in Arizona in 1998 and was cited for failure to obey a traffic control in 2007, the Los Angeles Times reported.

Lives were likely saved by passenger cars designed to absorb a crash that were purchased after a collision a decade ago in Glendale killed 11 people and injured 180 others, Metrolink officials said. The four passenger cars in Tuesday’s crash remained largely intact, as did the locomotive.

The crash disrupted rail service for a day, but it resumed Wednesday.

The train collision happened around 5:45 a.m.

Tuesday, a few minutes after leaving the Oxnard station. The engineer saw the abandoned vehicle and hit the brakes, but there wasn’t enough time to stop, Oxnard Fire Battalion Chief Sergio Martinez said.

Th e c ro ss i ng ha s been the site of many crashes.

Experts: Insanity case as in Missouri public safety director ‘American Sniper’ hard to win resigns 6 months into job STEPHENVILLE, Texas (AP) — The former Marine convicted of killing “American Sniper” author Chris Kyle and another man was hospitalized multiple times for psychiatric treatment and was prescribed medication to treat schizophrenia. He spoke of pighuman hybrids and the apocalypse and was described by Kyle himself as “straight-up nuts.”

But jurors found the insanity defense for Eddie Ray Routh failed to meet the legal threshold: a mental illness so severe he didn’t know right from wrong. His case illustrates the difficulty of succeeding with such a defense at a time when a Colorado court is preparing to hear similar arguments in the trial over a movie theater shooting in which 12 people were killed.

“The insanity defense is very rare, and it’s even rarer that a defendant wins it,” said George Dix, a law professor at the University of Texas at Austin.

He said when a brutal crime is committed it’s difficult to convince a jury the person accused doesn’t “deserve the condemnation that comes from a finding of guilty.”

He added, “And here, we’ve got him causing the death of an American hero.”

Kyle, a former Navy SEAL sniper, volunteered with veterans facing mental health problems after he left the military. A blockbuster film based on his memoir about his four tours in Iraq contributed to intense interest in the case.

Legal experts say a defense attorney’s task to convince a jury that a client is legally insane is even more difficult in cases like

Michael Ainsworth/AP

Former Marine Cpl. Eddie Ray Routh stands during his capital murder trial at the Erath County, Donald R. Jones Justice Center in Stephenville Texas, on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2015. Routh, 27, of Lancaster, is charged with the 2013 deaths of Chris Kyle and his friend Chad Littlefield at a shooting range near Glen Rose, Texas. that of Routh, who confessed to killing the men, apologized to the family and fled from police.

“If someone is admitting that they committed the murder, it’s a pretty tough burden to get a jury to say, ‘Let’s excuse him anyway,’” said Dallas defense attorney Michael Snipes.

Kyle and his friend, Chad Littlefield, were killed after taking Routh to a shooting range on Feb. 2, 2013. Routh’s mother had asked Kyle if he could help her son, who she said had suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder after serving in Iraq and Haiti.

But the focus of the trial was not PTSD. Routh’s attorneys said he suffered from schizophrenia and was having a psychotic episode at the time of the shootings, and noted that Kyle described Routh as “straight-up nuts” in a text message to Littlefield as they drove to the range.

Prosecutors painted the 27-year-old as a troubled drug user who nonetheless knew right from wrong.

A psychologist testifying for prosecutors said

Routh was not legally insane but had a paranoid disorder made worse by his use of alcohol and marijuana. In contrast, a psychiatrist testifying for the defense said Routh had schizophrenia and had described seeing neighbors and friends turning into pig-human hybrids.

Snipes said that ultimately, experts cancel each other out in the minds of jurors, who instead look at the defendant’s actions.

Juror Barrett Hutchinson told ABC’s “Good Morning America” they were not convinced by the claim that Routh was having a psychotic episode. “He knew the consequences of pulling the trigger,” Hutchinson said.

The defense plans an appeal, but Routh’s attorney J. Warren St. John said he’s not yet ready to discuss specifics.

The jury had three options: find Routh guilty of capital murder, find him not guilty or find him not guilty by reason of insanity. With the conviction, Routh received an automatic sentence of life in prison without parole.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Missouri’s public safety director, appointed amid fallout from the fatal Ferguson police shooting of Michael Brown, on Wednesday announced plans to resign only six months into the job.

Director Daniel Isom II in a statement issued by the governor’s office confirmed plans to return to the University of MissouriSt. Louis, where he previously taught at the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice.

“It has been a great honor to serve as the director of public safety during this important time,” Isom said. “But after a long career in law enforcement I have found that my true passion is teaching and I’m eager to return to my students at UMSL.” Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon appointed Isom, who is black, in August after Darren Wilson, a white police officer in the St. Louis suburb of Ferguson, shot and killed Brown, an unarmed, black 18-yearold. Wilson resigned in November.

Nixon has been criticized for not having enough diversity in his Cabinet, which at that time included no black leaders. In a statement Wednesday, Nixon said Isom “has been a strong leader for the department” the last six months.

Isom, the former St. Louis police chief, started serving in the top public safety role on Sept. 1 but faced hurdles last month during his confirmation with the Senate. The primary concern was his role in a racial discrimination lawsuit during his time as police chief.

Lawmakers eventually voted overwhelmingly in favor of him.

A federal jury in 2013 awarded a white police sergeant $420,000 in punitive damages over his claim that he was unfairly denied a promotion because his superiors wanted a black female to help lead the city police academy.

The jury levied $20,000 in damages against Isom for his responsibility as police chief over the actions of other department leaders.

Isom and other defendants have appealed.

Democratic Sen. Jamilah Nasheed of St. Louis, who issued a statement earlier Wednesday about Isom’s resignation, backed him throughout the confirmation process, which she said “took a lot of heavy lifting to get him there, to say the least.”

While praising Isom, she criticized Nixon.

“I sponsored Dr. Isom’s nomination because I believe that he has the ability and experience to re-

form the justice system in the state of Missouri,” Nasheed said in her written statement. “The governor needs to start taking responsibility for these needed reforms.

This state needs leadership, and the governor is not showing that right now.”

Nixon spokesman Scott Holste declined to comment on Nasheed’s claims.

Isom’s last day will be March 2.

Peter Lyskowski, deputy chief of staff in the governor’s office, will serve as acting public safety director. He previously was deputy director for the state departments of Health and Senior Services and Labor and Industrial Relations.

Former Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney Stephen Sokoloff, of Kennett in southeast Missouri, will join Andrea Spillars as a deputy director of public safety.

A&E

5

Thursday February 26, 2015

CONTACT US

304-293-5092 ext. 3 | DAA&E@mail.wvu.edu

Meet the contestants

Dancing with our Mountaineer Stars Ali Kowalski & Kevin Fuss, Renzo Diaz & Cassie Brown

With the show only a little more than a week away, Dancing with Our Mountaineer Stars competitors are practicing intensely to master their choreography.

The Dancing with Our Mountaineer Stars com-

petition, the West Virginia University spin-off of ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars,” is a fundraiser put on by WVUp All Night in order to raise money and garner attention for the American Red Cross. The competition will feature

prominent faculty, staff and students all across WVU’s campus.

The dancers will be judged on content such as choreography, movement, creativity, execution and technique, showmanship and overall performance.

All of the guest judges are qualified and have experience in dance.

The competition will take place at 7 p.m. on March 6 in the Mountainlair Ballrooms.

The event is free and open to the public.

Kowalski & Fuss

By Hannah Harless A&E WRITER @dailyathenaeum

Senior Biometrics Engineering student Ali Kowalski and WVU Boxing Club athlete Kevin Fuss are among the cast.

Kowalski, a returning dancer for the competition, is the conference chair for WVU’s Society of Women Engineers, in which she plans the annual events for the organization, such as the SWE regional conference this winter. Kowalski is also a member of Chi Alpha, a campus ministry in which she spends a lot of her time.

“Last year I completed an application to express interest in the competition and was selected,” Kowalski said. “I asked to come back for this year’s competition since last year was such a great experience.”

Fuss is a member of the WVU Boxing Club and has taken part in events such as

the Blue and Gold Exhibition. Fuss is a senior criminology student from Shepherdstown, W.Va., and is a first time competitor for the competition. Fuss’ twin brother Jeff has competed in the competition for the past two years.

“I was pretty excited when I found out I was selected to be in the competition,” Fuss said. “I’ve never competed in something like this before, and I’m really looking forward it.”

Kowalski and Fuss met each other for the first time at their initial rehearsal.

Since then, both have been working around their considerably busy schedules in order to find time to rehearse and go over performance details.

“I never met Kevin until we got assigned to dance together,” Kowalski said. “I knew his twin, Jeff, who had participated in the competition before, and Kevin said he is determined to beat his

Mirror Ball trophies will be awarded to the two firstplace winners, the two second-place winners and the two third-place winners.

The couple with the most blood donors will receive commemorative plaques.

After all the dancers have

performed, time will be allotted for guests to text in their favorite performances, and the People’s Choice Awards will be selected shortly after. The two winners for this category will receive glass trophies.

Diaz & Brown

brother. I’m excited to get to know Kevin and hopefully beat Jeff.”

While Fuss lacks experience in dancing, Kowalski makes up for that. Kowalski has taken dance lessons since she could walk and gained experience last year during her time in the competition.

“I have no dance experience prior to the competition. Well, if you don’t count going downtown, that is,” Fuss said.

The two will be performing a hip-hop number to a remix of “Outta Ya Mind,” by Lil John and LMFAO, which is fully choreographed by Kowalski. Both Kowalski and Fuss want to keep many aspects of their performance a surprise, but they gave a bit of a clue as to what they will be wearing.

“We’re going to keep it professional,” Kowalski said.

“That’s all I can really say.” daa&e@mail.wvu.edu

By Hannah Harless A&E Writer @dailyathenaeum

Junior computer science student Renzo Diaz and Financial Services Student Accounts Assistant Director Cassie Brown are among the cast of this year’s Dancing With Our Mountaineer Stars competition.

Diaz has served on the Board of Governors and has been an active member in West Virginia University’s student government. Diaz is also the President of Culturas WVU, an organization for Hispanic students and allies for the University. As president of the organization, Diaz has been able to put on many events since the organization’s foundation, such as helping to organize a Hispanic Heritage Night on campus.

Brown is an alum of the University, receiving

her undergraduate degree in 2007 and returning to WVU to receive her master’s degree in 2009.

Brown is not only involved with financial services at WVU, but is also an alumna and advisor for Chi Omega Sorority.

“Since my partner works for the Office of Student Accounts, it feels like I’m symbolically representing college students across the country who are dancing with their college finances,” Diaz said.

“My partner is very cool, though, so I don’t mind it.”

While in high school, Brown took part in gymnastics, cheerleading and dance. While Brown is very qualified and experienced to take on the weight of the competition, Diaz has quick retention ability and quick feet to pick up on the steps, all things Diaz has been able to attain through years of

playing soccer.

“We will be dancing to the song ‘Tricky’

by Run DMC. We work with our choreographer Maggie each week for about an hour and a half per session,” Brown said.

The two will be dressed in ‘80s hip-hop attire.

The most difficult part of the competition thus far for Diaz and Brown has been coordinating schedules and finding time to rehearse.

“We have been working really hard on our routine for the competition, and it seems to be going very well I must say,” Diaz said.

Both Diaz and Brown said they are looking forward to competing, but their main objective for the night is to help give back to the American Red Cross and to just have fun. daa&e@mail.wvu.edu

#TBT

Zeppelin tour ‘95, Cash’s birthday, Trayvon Martin’s brutal murder

By Chelsea Walker A&E Writer @dailyathenaeum

Former Led Zeppelin band members, Jimmy Page and Robert Plant, began their reunion tour Feb. 26, 1995.

The English rock band was originally made up of members Page, Plant, John Paul Jones and John Bonham. The band’s psychedelic, guitar-driven sounds drew from various other genres, allowing the group to be one of the most unique rock ‘n’ roll bands of its generation.

Tragedy struck the group on Sept. 25, 1980, when drummer Bonham was found dead of asphyxiation.

The drummer’s alco-

hol-induced death led to a signed statement from the band on Dec. 4, 1980. It read: “We wish it to be known that the loss of our dear friend, and the deep sense of undivided harmony felt by ourselves and our manager, have led us to decide that we could not continue as were.”

Band members went their separate ways until Plant and Page met again at a gig in Boston. The two were asked to joint-star on MTV’s “Unplugged,” but the proposition led to even more musical collaborations. The “Unplugged” performance was eventually released as an album in November 1994 titled, “No Quarter: Jimmy Page and Robert Plant Unledded.”

Happy Birthday to the “Man in Black.” Johnny Cash would have turned 83 today. Often considered one of the most influential songwriters in American music history, the iconic singer, actor and author was born Feb. 26, 1932, in Kingsland, Ark. Although known for his deep voice and country tunes, Cash was also a noted blues, folk and gospel singer. His talented ability to cross over multiple genres earned him inductions into the Country Music, Rock and Roll and Gospel Music Hall of Fame. On Sept. 12, 2003, Cash died of diabetes complications at age 71. It’s been rumored that Cash’s passing was caused from his heartache over wife June’s death. The couple now rests together at Hendersonville Memory

Pebble announces new smartwatch ‘Time’ Pebble, the company that brought the smartwatch concept to the modern market, unveiled their newest watch design Feb. 24.

The previous evening, owners of Pebble’s current generation of watches, the Steel and original, recieved an upbeat yet cryptic email instructing them to check out the website at 10 a.m. U.S. Eastern time the next day.

The next morning they revealed the Pebble Time.

This new smartwatch improves upon the older models in a multitude of ways.

The most striking upgrade is the Time’s new color e-paper display. Older Pebble models featured battery efficient e-paper displays as well, but unfortunately they were only capable of displaying black and white. The new display can show 64 colors. This is similar to the capabilities of Nintendo’s 1998 handheld, the Game Boy Color.

Pebble has also added a microphone to its new Time. This promises to allow users to make

quick notes and reminders, and respond to certain notifications, with their voice.

Pebble has also revamped its interface. The new watches will organize apps and events based on the time you need them throughout your day. You’ll receive weather updates in the morning, email alerts will be organized based on when you received them and reminders will be pushed to your attention when they’re most relevant. The Time will try to deliver organization and efficiency right to your wrist.

These three upgrades only scratch the surface of what the Pebble Time brings to the table. Other new features include body monitors, a new ergonomic design and upgraded memory and processing power.

As always they’re keeping everything customizable to the furthest extent. It will be exciting to see how the smartwatch community makes use of Pebble’s newest piece of gear.

The Pebble Time is slated to release this May. — wt

thedbz.com

Legendary rock group Led Zeppelin is famous for songs like ‘Black Dog’ and ‘Stairway to Heaven.’

Gardens in Hendersonville, Tenn.

On Feb. 26, 2012, Miami high school student, Trayvon Martin, was killed walking home from a local convenience store. The African-American youth was fatally shot by neighborhood watch volunteer George Zimmerman, who was patrolling the community. Zimmerman claimed to have shot the

17-year-old out of self-defense, but an unarmed Martin raised suspicions and fueled a nationwide debate about racial profiling and selfdefense laws. In a set of high profile and controversial court cases, Zimmerman was eventually found not guilty by a jury on July 13, 2013. daa&e@mail.wvu.edu

Adelaide Paul to lecture in CAC Philadelphia sculptor Adelaide Paul will be giving a lecture today at the Creative Arts Center.

Paul will lecture students and faculty who are interested in pursuing art on her own work and the creative methods she uses. Her work will be available to view after the lecture at a reception in the Paul Mesaros Gallery.

Receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University in 1993 and a Master of Fine Arts from Louisiana State University in 1996, Paul has taught at many different universities from Texas to Montana. Paul is currently teaching at the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore.

Inspired by animals, Paul’s art re-

flects her strong relationship and love for them. Paul refers to her sculptures as “the alternately cloying sentimental and brutally callous relationship between humans and animals, both domesticated and wild.”

One of her featured sculptures consists of a red bull-like animal with gold horns resembling bells. Another popular sculpture is a threelegged dog with its mouth opened wide.

The lecture will start at 5 p.m. in the Bloch Learning and Performance Hall. The closing reception will start at 6 p.m. in the Paul Mesaros Gallery.

For more information about upcoming art galleries and events, visit http://events.wvu.edu/.

— aml

THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

6 | ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Thursday February 26, 2015

Steve Pavlovic gallery doesn’t hit home for some

Askar Salikhov/THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

Steve Pavlovic’s art exhibit, ‘Walking, Standing, Searching, Dreaming,’ hangs at the Monongalia Art Center’s Benedum Gallery.

Jack Baronner Correspondent @dailyathenaeum

The Monongalia Arts Center is currently showcasing work by Morgantown native Steve Pavlovic.

The exhibition, “Walking, Standing, Searching, Dreaming,” focuses on the themes of darkness as a metaphor for isolation, loss and the search for individuality.

Pavlovic grew up in Morgantown and began painting at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio. Soon thereafter he went on to receive his MFA at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He has lived many places in the world including France and South Korea. Pavlovic takes inspiration from a deluge of artists, hailing from many different artistic styles. Everyone from the American minimalist Donald Judd to the famous Spaniard Picasso have influenced him in one way or another.

With a resume like this, I walked into the Benedum Gallery at the Monongalia Arts Center expecting something unique. He attended university specifically for art at both Kenyon College and UNC Chapel Hill. He has traveled the

world, taking in a myriad of cultures to inspire him.

Well, I must say I was disheartened when I rounded the corner to enter the gallery.

The first painting I took in was “The Peaceable Kingdom.” Pavlovic utilizes oil paints for every piece of work he creates.

He also uses an oil painting technique called impasto, where the paint dries in clumps creating a raised texture on top of the canvas. In “The Peaceable Kingdom,” a flower is front and center, drawing the eye straight to it. Situated around the flower are children and animals of every shape and size, like cows, sheep, jaguars and some that do not exist. A flying pig that didn’t have wings was streaking across the sky like a cannonball, and a roosterdragon type creature was on the opposite side of the canvas with the tongue of a snake sticking out as if it was hissing.

Take a 180-degree turn and you’re face to face with yet another strange painting. Adorning the canvas are two figures I never thought in my lifetime would be together. A dark hooded figure holding a skull stands ominously next to Marge Simpson from the hit cartoon show “The Simpsons.”

The paintings that at least had a little substance to them were not that well done. The impasto technique was exaggerated to where it stuck off the canvas like some type of weird cyst. The people he painted had disproportionate appendages and looked like something from “The Blob” movie. One of the paintings, “Nevada Tornado Dream,” was obviously of a tornado, but it took some time to realize it. The tornado just looked like a brown striped can or something.

I know this might seem a little harsh, but with all of the formal training Pavlovic Askar Salikhov/THE DAILY ATHENAEUM had, I just expected some- Steve Pavlovic’s ‘St. Francis and Avalokitesvara’ hangs on display at the Monongalia Arts Center’s Benedum Gallery. thing more. I know in art some things are meant to be off-the-wall to make you ruminate about a certain social issue, but this exhibition was just too much. Pavlovic was probably trying to render a dreamlike state for the viewer, but a little different imagery would’ve been more sufficient. Adding Marge and that dragonrooster to an oil painting seemed like an oxymoron. The proportions were also totally out of whack.

I do not suggest making the trek in the cold to see it.

Askar Salikhov/THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

daa&e@mail.wvu.edu

B&E Distinguished SPEAKER SERIES

‘House of Cards’ season predictions CHELSEA WALKER & CAITLIN WORRELL A&E WRITERs @dailyathenaeum

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

VICKI DUNNMARSHALL Owner-operator of 25 Little Caesars Pizza Restaurants

MARCH 2 | 6pm

Erickson Alumni Center

GEORGETTE RASHID GEORGE President Monarch Holdings Family of Hotels

KATHLEEN WALKER

Co-owner Epiphany Consulting

DIANE STRONGTREISTER President Manpower

Sponsored in part by Wells Fargo

be.wvu.edu/speaker_series

Moderated By: ALY GOODWIN-GREGG Chief Marketing Officer, MVB Bank

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS Sponsored in part by Wells Fargo

Askar Salikhov/THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

Steve Pavlovic’s ‘Thug Life’ hangs on display at the Mononga- Steve Pavlovic’s ‘The Peaceable Kingdom’ hangs on display at lia Arts Center’s Benedum Gallery. the Monongalia Arts Center’s Benedum Gallery.

Editor’s note: Contains spoilers from previous seasons.

Trouble is brewing in the White House. Netflix’s popular series “House of Cards” returns this Friday, which means you’ll be blowing through all 13 episodes in one sitting. So, before you lose yourself in mindless hours of popcorn and dirty politics, check out what predictions have been rumored to make this season of “House of Cards” more scandalous than ever.

Frank and Claire’s Marriage Unravels This theory is somewhat solidified in the season three trailer, in which Claire and Frank verbally acknowledge the fact that they are both, in fact, murderers. But that may just be the tip of the iceberg for this perceived rock-solid couple.

There is still a good deal of information being hidden from Claire, beginning all the way back with Russo in Season One. The mounting pressure of Frank’s position and her own personal agenda began to wear her down last season, but the woman is essentially a ticking time bomb.

Claire will begin to realize she can’t trust Francis as freely as she once thought, and this could prompt a number of responses from the fierce First Lady. She could fold under the pressure and their marriage could completely unravel, which would be a devastating blow for both characters. Judging by past behavior, though, Claire won’t go down without a fight. Be prepared to see bold moves from this political viper – maybe even a few behind the president’s back.

Doug’s dirty laundry will lead to Frank’s downfall.

As if Paul Russo and Zoe Barnes’ deaths are not enough extra baggage for the scheming politician, his assistant Doug Stamper’s brutal murder might just be the last nail in his twisted coffin.

Underwood’s chief of staff was forced to tie complicated loose ends with Rachel, who

knew vital details in Russo’s murder. Rachel unbuckles her seatbelt and flees from the car, knowing well of Doug’s intentions. Doug chases her, running into the woods to find her. Rachel comes from behind and ambushes the chief of staff, knocking him in the head with a rock until he is unconscious, leaving us to assume he is dead.

Unbeknownst to Underwood, Doug’s death was shocking for the audience.

The president is no doubt set for stormy seas as Doug’s death comes to the surface. As always, Underwood never leaves loose ends, but sans Stamper, this one is left for him to tie. Rachel and Underwood’s sinful wild goose chase could easily lead to shackles, handcuffs and a widowed Claire.

Not-so-Accidental Leak Maybe Frank’s sly ways have us paranoid about the greater authority, but we can’t help but question the “government’s” role in all of this. President Underwood is always up to no good, and it’s possible the leak is just another product of chaos in the White House this season.

For those of you who missed it (which is almost everyone), the third season of House of Cards was prematurely released on Netflix. The perceived glitch in the system was quickly resolved, giving fans who caught the leak access to the first episode. As season two ended, there was some unfinished business involving Lucas and his hacking buddy Gavin.

The two, who are setting out to uncover Zoe’s murderer, began to stir the technological pot when they attempted to steal government-classified data during a tour of the facility. Gavin, who is reluctantly cooperating with the feds, is continuing to dig where he shouldn’t. Gavin has the ability to wreak havoc on a national scale, making the Netflix leak child’s play in comparison to his true potential. Eager to expose Frank or damage his credibility, it’s clear these two won’t let up until the crime is solved.

Will Jackie ultimately “whip” Frank?

Frank’s one-time protege could potentially out-skill the cunning president; after all, he did craft her into the up-and-

coming congresswoman she is. Jackie’s strong-will and ambition set her up to want the same things that drive Frank.

Her role in Underwood’s world has definitely allowed her to dip her feet in the pool of conniving. Her upbringing in the dirty side of politics has left actress Molly Parker, who plays Jackie’s sly character, saying we can’t imagine what’s to come.

“Jackie is very interested in being in leadership and having power,” Parker said in an interview with “Vulture” magazine.

Only time will tell if Underwood’s mini-me will outwit and outlast, but regardless the duo’s dynamic relationship will be nothing less of dramatic in season three.

Meechum Replaces Frank’s Right-Hand Man Last season ended with Frank’s long time sidekick, Doug, being savagely murdered by Rachel after attempting to abduct her from her apartment. We last see Doug lying lifeless in a heavily wooded area as Rachel flees the scene in his car. Doug’s unexpected death raises a number of questions for the president.

Frank wouldn’t have been able to con his way to the top without a savvy accomplice by his side. To say Doug did Frank’s dirty work would be an understatement. He orchestrated and executed Russo’s sabotage, paid off peers for the president and was even willing to take the rap for Zoe’s murder. Frank is now in need of another puppet to manipulate, but not just anyone willing to get their hands dirty. He needs a man he can trust.

Meechum proved his good standing with the president last season after Frank demanded he head his security detail. The president even has a rather personal relationship with the bodyguard, often looking to Meechum for friendly advice.

And how can we forget the infamous three-way between Frank, Claire and the hunky guard? Meechum, no doubt, seems like an ideal candidate for the job. So far he seems willing to go the distance for the president, but will he feel the same when the truth starts to unfold? daa&e@mail.wvu.edu

Thursday February 26, 2015

THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

SPORTS | 7

ap

washingtontimes.com

Maryland’s Dez Wells hugs freshman guard Melo Trimble late in the second half of Tuesday night’s game against No. 5 Wisconsin.

No. 14 Maryland stuns No. 5 Wisconsin, 59-53 COLLEGE PARK, Md. (AP) — The 11-point halftime lead was long gone, and Maryland suddenly was tied with a surging Wisconsin team that hadn’t lost in more than six weeks.

In other words, the Terrapins were in perfect position to come away with another tight victory.

Dez Wells scored 26 points, and No. 14 Maryland held off fifth-ranked Wisconsin 59-53 Tuesday night, ending the Badgers’ 10-game winning streak and ruining their bid to clinch at least a share of the Big Ten title.

Melo Trimble added 16 points for the secondplace Terrapins (23-5, 11-4 Big Ten), who finished the game with a 12-6 run.

“We knew we had the poise and toughness to win the game,” Wells said.

The Terrapins improved to 9-0 in games decided by six points or fewer, and they’ve won their last three by a total of 17 points. Although Wisconsin had an opportunity to take the lead in the closing minutes, Maryland coach Mark Turgeon said it wouldn’t have mattered.

“We’ve been in so many close games, we’d have just kept doing what we do,” Turgeon said. “Our guys were really determined tonight, starting with Dez Wells.”

Wells went 9 for 17 from the floor, nailed all seven of his free throws and led the team with seven rebounds and four assists.

“He was not going to let us lose,” Turgeon said.

Frank Kaminsky scored 18 for Wisconsin (25-3, 132) and Sam Dekker added 14. The Badgers’ winning

streak was their longest since an 11-game run in 1941 to win the national championship.

Wisconsin hadn’t lost since Jan. 11 at Rutgers.

“We were close a couple of times but we just couldn’t do it. It’s definitely frustrating,” Kaminsky said. “We’ve had a great season so far. We’ve haven’t really been tested like this many times like this. ... I think we’re going to learn a lot from it.”

The victory improved Maryland’s home record to 17-1. After the final buzzer, hundreds of fans stormed the court to celebrate the Terrapins’ most significant win in their inaugural Big Ten season.

“We are what we are. We figure out a way to win,” Turgeon said. “We compete when we have to. I’ll take close wins as long as

we keep winning. We’re really becoming gritty and tough.”

Maryland led 55-52 before Trimble made a driving layup and was fouled.

He missed the free throw, but after Wisconsin misfired twice on the other end, Trimble iced it with a pair of foul shots. The Badgers missed nine of their last 10 shots.

After scoring a seasonlow 20 points in the first half, Wisconsin opened the second half with a 13-4 run to close to 35-33. Kaminsky made three baskets during the spree and Josh Gasser made Wisconsin’s second 3-pointer of the game.

After Maryland bolstered the margin back to six points, Dekker made a pair of 3-pointers and Nigel Hayes connected from beyond the arc to bring the Badgers to 45-44 with

8 minutes remaining.

The game was tied at 47 before Wells made four straight free throws to put Maryland ahead for good.

His dunk made it 53-48 with 4 minutes to go.

BAD HALF Maryland limited Wisconsin to 30 percent shooting (1 for 11 from beyond the arc) before the break.

The 20 points were the fewest scored by the Badgers in the first half this season, and marked the first time they trailed after 20 minutes since Dec. 3 in a loss to Duke.

GREAT ATMOSPHERE Even in defeat, the Badgers appreciated the enthusiasm of the sellout crowd.

“Man, this place is great,” Dekker said. “I can’t say enough about how great their fans were. They were into it right away. It was a

pleasure playing here.”

Turgeon was appreciative, too.

“Our student section gave us great energy. We fed off that,” he said.

TIP-INS Wisconsin: The Badgers fell to 8-2 on the road. ...

Wisconsin came in leading the nation with fewest fouls (12.7) and fewest turnovers (7.4) per game.

In this one, the Badgers were called for 12 fouls and had eight turnovers.

Maryland: Wells has scored in double figures in eight straight games.

He moved past Joe Smith into 25th place on the school scoring list. ... Michal Cekovsky, a 7-foot-1 center, played 14 minutes in the first half, matching his total over his the last three games. He finished with four points and six rebounds.

Baylor walk-on running back ruled ineligible (AP) — Baylor says running back Silas Nacita who became a fan favorite thanks to his story of making it to college football despite an unstable childhood - will no longer be part of the program because of rules violations that affect his eligibility.

Nacita, a walk-on reserve from Bakersfield, California, posted on Twitter on Wednesday that he had been ruled ineligible because he accepted

a close family friend’s offer to provide a place for him to live when he could not afford to pay for it.

Nacita blamed the NCAA, but Baylor’s athletic department made the decision. Athletic director Ian McCaw released a statement, confirming Nacita was off the team, though he did not give details.

The NCAA tweeted it had not declared Nacita ineligible and Baylor had

not requested a waiver for him to be reinstated.

Typically, a school rules a player ineligible, and then requests an NCAA waiver for reinstatement.

After Baylor held a spring practice session on Wednesday, coach Art Briles told reporters Nacita would be back if he was eligible.

“It’s unfortunate you know, and hopefully there’ll be a remedy,” Briles said. “This is a situation handled through

Westbrook leads Thunder past Pacers, 105-92 OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Russell Westbrook shrugged off his triple-double.

He was much more excited about the surge his Oklahoma City Thunder are making in the standings. Westbrook had 20 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists, and the Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers 105-92 on Tuesday night for their seventh straight win.

The Thunder, who are 9-1 in February, closed within 2½ games of the San Antonio Spurs for the No. 7 spot in the Western Conference.

“Everybody’s playing with a great amount of confidence,” Westbrook said. “We’re playing together, making the extra pass, and guys are getting open shots, so it makes it easy on everybody. I’m just happy to see everybody doing well.”

Westbrook claimed his third triple-double of the season and 11th of his career despite resting for the entire fourth quarter. He’s found a rare groove, despite working

with two new starters. Since being voted All-Star Game MVP, Westbrook is averaging 27.0 points, 11.8 assists and 7.8 rebounds, and the Thunder are 4-0. He has had at least 10 assists in all four games.

“He just continues to stack games up on top of one another,” Thunder coach Scott Brooks said. “He’s played well. He’s doing a great job of leading us, leading the new guys and leading the group.

Making it all come together.”

Serge Ibaka had 23 points and 10 rebounds and Enes Kanter added 15 points for the Thunder. Kanter, a 6-foot-11 center, is averaging 15 points in three games since being acquired from Utah at the trade deadline.

Oklahoma City won its third straight without Kevin Durant. The reigning MVP had a screw replaced on his surgically repaired right foot on Sunday, and he is to be reevaluated within a week.

“We have to play better to beat a really good team in

their building,” Pacers coach Frank Vogel said. “Even without KD, they’re a really good team.”

C.J. Miles scored 21 points, George Hill scored 13 and David West and Solomon Hill each added 11 for the Pacers, who had won three straight.

Indiana depends heavily on its height and bulk inside, but the Thunder outrebounded the Pacers 57-48.

Oklahoma City led by 15 in the first half, but the Pacers trimmed the advantage to 48-42 at halftime. Westbrook had 11 points, seven rebounds and six assists at the break while Ibaka had 17 points and eight rebounds.

“We knew they were going to start the game the way they did,” Pacers guard C.J. Watson said.

“Our biggest thing was to come out here and take care of the ball and be able to withstand that punch.

They hit everybody like that in this building because it gets so loud.

compliance not through football.”

Nacita, who picked up the nickname Salsa Nacho because his name autocorrects to that on smartphones, had 191 yards rushing on 31 carries as a fourth-stringer and played on special teams last season. Local and national media outlets profiled his road from growing up mostly fatherless in California to a year playing at Cornell to walking on at Baylor. Nacita was de-

scribed in those stories as once being estranged from his mother and homeless at times.

“In 2014, I was just a kid who couched surfed and took classes online at a community college, but I had a dream to play college football,” Nacita wrote in his Twitter post on Wednesday.

“Throughout that year, I was able to earn enough academic scholarships to pursue that dream, but it was only enough to pay

for school without a place to stay or any other living expenses.”

Nacita said before enrolling at Baylor a close family “insisted on putting me in an apartment and helping out with those living expenses.”

“Because I accepted that offer instead of choosing to be homeless, I am no longer eligible to play football and pursue my dream.

I had no idea I was breaking any rules, but I respect the decision of the NCAA.”

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THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

8 | CAMPUS CONNECTION

S U D O k U

Thursday February 26, 2015

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Across 1 Wrap giant 6 Reliever Orosco with the MLB record for career pitching appearances 11 Center of excellence?

14 Quaking causes 15 Plant pest 16 Rest one’s dogs, so to speak 17 It’s fraudulent 19 “Double Fantasy” artist 20 Extras in an env.

21 Squeezed (out) 22 Web-footed critter 24 Mustard, for one: Abbr.

25 Encouraging shouts 26 Shout 27 It’s fabricated 30 “Saint Joan” star Jean 31 __ Locks: St. Marys River rapids bypass 32 Hid the gray in 33 Brewers’ outfielder Braun 35 Creator of Della 37 Morales of film 40 Part of a foot 42 Pompous authority 46 It’s fake 49 Beer with “Since 1775” on its label 50 Big dos 51 Grazing area 52 More of that 53 Detective Peter of old TV 54 Estate attorney’s concern 55 __ Lingus 56 Race errors, and what 17-, 27- and 46-Across have 59 Mrs., in much of the Americas 60 Classic six-couplet poem 61 Has __: can save face 62 Triumphant cry 63 Dost espy 64 Has a sudden inspiration?

Down 1 Gets to 2 Heroine of Beethoven’s “Fidelio” 3 AAA, for one 4 AAA et al.

5 Enzyme suffix 6 Hiked, with “up” 7 “The Comedy of Errors” setting 8 Word with wood or water

9 Quote qualifier 10 Ex-mayor with a cameo in “The Muppets Take Manhattan” 11 Abstruse stuff 12 Pedigree 13 Came (in) dramatically 18 Convention attendees 23 Exploit 25 “Live at the __”: Patsy Cline album 26 Venomous arachnids 28 Sources of fine wool 29 “... rapping at my chamber door” poet 34 Fish-fowl link 36 Filming sites 37 Heaven on earth 38 “Told ya!”

39 Natural light shows 41 Pours out 43 Short, tailored jackets 44 Really dug something 45 San Simeon family 47 Guards may prevent them

48 Antarctic explorer Shackleton 53 Pure delight 54 1985 U.S. Open champ Mandlikova 57 Modern art?

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BY JACQUELINE BIGAR ARIES (March 21-April 19) HHHH Save worrying for a different day. You might be on the path to a mistake, but a sequence of events could unfold in your favor and save the day. A child or new friend seems to have a lot to share. The question remains: Can you relax and let go?

Tonight: The world is your oyster.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) HHH Be careful with your finances; otherwise, a mistake could occur. Focus on your security, home and family matters. You could be surprised by the support that someone gives you. Try to understand what is happening with a situation

at home. Tonight: Make hay while the sun shines.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) HHH You might want to understand exactly what is motivating someone who suddenly has become a little too friendly.

Understand what is needed to make you more comfortable with this person. For the moment, you might need to observe more and say less. Tonight: Hang out.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) HHHH Listen to forthcoming news that involves others in your life. Understand that your finances will need to be handled with kid gloves. An associate might ask for a share of a project that doesn’t feel right to you. Listen to your

instincts. Tonight: Easy does it.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) HHHH Be aware of what must be done in order to get where you want to go. A meeting might prove to be a stronger guideline and motivator than you even had considered. Honor a change of pace, and know when you have had enough. Tonight: Find your pals.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) HHHH You could be greeting a lot more opportunities than you originally had thought. If you feel overwhelmed by everything you are hearing, slow down.

Understand what might be needed in order to feel more comfortable.

Tonight: You’re a force to be dealt with.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) HHHH Friends surround and support you. You could have a lot on your mind, and you might need to do some research and deep thinking. A loved one seems likely to interfere with your train of thought.

Close the door if you must. Tonight: On top of your game.

tunity to step outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s a trip or a workshop, it does not matter. Though you might not want to give up the time, you will benefit enormously from taking a mental break from the here and now.

Tonight: Off to hear some music.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) HHHH You will want to see a situation differently from how you have up until now.

You could be encouraged by a higherup to revise your impressions, as you might be off-base. Be as gracious as possible, even if you happen to disagree. Tonight: Leader of the gang.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) HHHH You might want to hear news from a loved one or a special partner. Do not stand on ceremony; make a call to this person, rather than torture yourself. You could be overwhelmed by everything that is happening and might need to talk through your choices. Tonight: Dinner for two.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) HHHH Graciously accept an oppor-

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) HHHH An offer comes through that simply will

be too enticing to say “no” to. In fact, you might have two offers. Good luck will come through those who are closest to you. A big smile goes a long way.

Tonight: No excuse for being alone.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) HHHH You could be a bit uptight about your choices. How you deal with a co-worker and explain a situation is very likely to color your day. Stay positive, and help this person stay positive too. You’ll have tons of energy, so make sure you get exercise. Tonight: Talk up a storm.

BORN TODAY Poet Victor Hugo (1802), entrepreneur Levi Strauss (1829), singer Johnny Cash (1932).

9

SPORTS

Thursday February 26, 2015

connor murray sports writer @dailyathenaeum

Bob Huggins: Big 12 Coach of the Year

It is difficult to put into words how far West Virginia basketball has come in the last two seasons.

After the graduation of one of the best players in program history, forward Kevin Jones, head coach Bob Huggins’ team faced the prospect of entering a new conference without a clear-cut leader.

During West Virginia’s first two seasons in the Big 12, Huggins’ group seemed to go through some sort of identity crisis. A slew of transfers happened when coaching philosophy and personal agendas did not match, and the upheaval on the roster manifested itself on the floor.

Now, in year three in the best RPI conference in the nation, West Virginia resembles Huggins’ teams of old. Led by senior Juwan Staten, who has completely bought in to his coach’s way of doing things, these Mountaineers resemble a typical Bob Huggins team: One that is unrelenting on defense, dives on the floor for loose balls and out-works you on the glass.

Coming into this year, there was plenty of uncertainty about how this team would come together. Sophomores Eron Harris and Terry Henderson had made their decision to transfer, and a group of relative unknowns like freshmen Daxter Miles and Jevon Carter would be tapped to step in and step up.

In a league like the Big 12, the inexperienced are normally lost, so you couldn’t blame anyone for setting a low ceiling for this team’s success in the pre-season.

That’s why West Virginia’s 22-6 record and No. 20 ranking is so impressive. This team didn’t come close to sniffing the top-25 a season ago, lost two major contributors in the offseason and yet has come together to exceed all expectations.

There is no doubt, this conference is chalked full of coaching talent. From current leaders in the profession like Bill Self at Kansas, to pillars of the game like Tubby Smith at Texas Tech, the Big 12 might be the deepest league in America when it comes to coaching, too.

Bob Huggins has outdone them all this season and deserves to be named the Big 12 Coach of the Year.

He has lifted his team from the deepest valley: Two-straight blowout losses in the Big 12 Tournament against Texas and the NIT first round against Georgetown. Those who stuck around through the offseason have bought in, and the result has been close to beyond belief.

With three games to play, West Virginia is one game behind Kansas for first place in the conference standings. If you saw that coming at the beginning of this season, a career in Las Vegas is calling your name.

Regardless if the Mountaineers end the regular season as conference champs or lose their last three games, Huggins has already cemented his place as the league’s best coach in 2015. dasports@mail.wvu.edu

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

IN THE HOME STRETCH

doyle maurer/the daily athenaeum

Forward Jonathan Holton navigates his way through the paint during the Mountaineers’ win against Texas Tuesday.

Holton proving himself, still a work in progress for the Mountaineers by ryan petrovich sports writer @Dailyathenaeum

As the regular season begins to wind down, many different players on the West Virginia basketball team have shown significant improvement from the start of the season to now.

One player who has gotten better but can still be pegged as a “work in progress” is junior forward Jonathan Holton.

Holton, who was perceived to be a big addition to this year’s team has made some impact, but he hasn’t fully hit his stride.

“We expected too much out of Jonathan Holton,” said head coach Bob Huggins. “He had never played at this level. He’s just now starting to do things we thought he could do.

He’s learning how to play.”

Holton transferred to West Virginia last season but was forced to sit out due to NCAA rules.

Prior to wearing the old gold and blue, Holton spent his freshman year at the University of Rhode Island and his sophomore year at Palm Beach State Community College, where he established himself as a solid college basketball player.

Holton is one of the junior college transfers stepping up for the Mountaineers this season.

Holton is currently the team’s fourth best scorer on the season. He’s averaging 7.9 points per game and is behind only Devin Williams in rebounds per game with 5.8.

In the Mountaineers’ last outing – a win over Texas – Holton scored 12 points that included going 2-2 from beyond the arc.

“Coaches have been in my ear,” Holton said. “I’ve just been in the gym working on my shot, and it just paid off. I just stayed aggressive, I finally hit some threes.”

Hu g g i n s, h ow e v e r, doesn’t believe Holton’s game is shooting 3-pointers.

“Jon made some threes in junior college, that’s not what Jon is,” Huggins said.

“Jon is what he was today (versus Texas), a guy who can score around the goal, a guy who could be an absolutely terrific offensive rebounder.”

Holton has 77 total offensive boards on the season. Against the Longhorns he reeled in four.

“I got to calm down a little bit because I’m getting these offensive rebounds and fouls on these rebounds,” Holton said. “I feel like when I got my energy – me and Devin (Williams) – no one can compete (in getting rebounds).

When I got energy I’m at my best.”

Holton and company has captured momentum

as the Big 12 Tournament nears. Holton said he and his teammates are “hungry” and want to keep their recent win streak alive.

“We’re hungry, and I see bright things (in our future),” Holton said. “We just got to keep working as a unit.”

Holton will be put to the test this coming Satur-

day as the Mountaineers hit the road to face No. 19 Baylor, another team whose size helped pummel the Mountaineers in their last meeting.

Holton will need to bring the same energy level he did against Texas should West Virginia want to avenge another loss. dasports@mail.wvu.edu

Invitation to apply for The Daily Athenaeum 2015-2016 Student Business Manager The Daily Athenaeum is now accepting applications for the 2015-2016 Student Business Manager position.

A prominent figure in our sales department, this position works to ensure that all ads are scheduled, the necessary paperwork is completed and that student employees are trained and ready for a career in sales. Additional responsibilities include harmoniously working within our internal departments (editorial, production and business offices) to create a culture that strives to propel The Daily Athenaeum forward as we continue to grow.

Applicants must have a working knowledge of the media industry combined with an outgoing personality and inner creative genius. This position is about opportunity, growth and the ability to make a difference. The student business manager serves as the morale builder for the student sales team. He/she will work closely within the team to identify incentives and goals that motivate sales and drive revenue.

Applications are available online at www.thedaonline.com or at The Daily Athenaeum business office from 8:15am – 4:45pm Monday-Friday. Candidates are requested to read the full job description before application submission.

All applications must be received via email or in the office by 5:00pm March 13, 2015. Interviews will begin with qualified candidates beginning the week of March 30, 2015.

EXPERIENCE THE DA:

REQUIREMENTS:

1

TEAM: Join our team as we collaboratively work in order to achieve our goals.

2

CREATE: Our amazingly daily product comes to life as our editorial, sales, and production teams embrace opportunity.

• • • •

3

SUCCESS: Feel the pride that comes form the experiences you’ll gain and the differences you’ll make. Grow With Us - The DA

Additional questions contact Joanne Hunt, Advertising and Marketing Manager Joanne.Hunt@mail.wvu.edu 304.293.0083

GPA of 2.0 or higher Full time student All majors encouraged to apply Ability to hold position 2015-2016 academic year.

• Ability to train last 2 weeks in April and return August 10, 2015.

THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

10 | SPORTS/CLASSIFIEDS

Thursday February 26, 2015

rifle

SPECIAL NOTICES

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

kyle monroe/the daily athenaeum

Junior Garrett Spurgeon shoots his target during a match against Nebraska in January.

Spurgeon brings prior shooting to WVU by ashley conley correspondent @dailyathenauem

With a tall 6-foot-2 stature, junior rifle standout Garrett Spurgeon is used to being close to the top.

Coming from the small, rural town of Canton, Mo., Spurgeon had never even shot as part of a team before donning the old gold and blue and joining the No. 1 rifle team in the NCAA. Starting at a young age, Spurgeon began his journey into the sport by participating in 4-H shooting in the state of Missouri.

After a few years of learning the sport, he worked his way up to shooting in National Rifle Association competitions, followed by

competing in the National Junior Olympics and the USA National Championships for Rifle and Pistol.

These accomplishments were only the beginning for the sharp-shooting young gun.

According to Spurgeon, leaving a lasting impression on college coaches at USA shooting matches is ultimately how he became a member of the West Virginia University rifle team. As a freshman during the 2012-13 season, it didn’t take Spurgeon long to make his meticulous shooting talents known.

“I think I kind of fell right into it. I never shot on a team before until coming here, so that was definitely a change,” Spurgeon said.

“Once I got here and got to

shoot with everybody everyday, I don’t think it took very long before things started falling into place.”

That season, the Mountaineers won the Great American Rifle Conference Championship along with the NCAA National Championship.

Spurgeon had a big hand in the team’s overall success but was also successful as an individual, coming away with the GARC Rookie of the Year award.

He was also named to the All-GARC First Team smallbore, was an honorable mention for air rifle and was named to the NRA All-American First Team for smallbore and Second Team for air rifle.

What makes Spurgeon even more unique is his

experience on the USA Junior National team, which has allowed him to travel to places like the Czech Republic, Germany and most recently Spain to compete in national competitions and expand his expertise of the sport.

“It definitely helps being able to get that level of competition and have it to help prepare you for the matches that we have here,” Spurgeon said.

Spurgeon believes his broad experiences allow him to bring more to the table for the Mountaineers.

During his sophomore and junior seasons, Spurgeon became more decorated as his accomplishment resume continued to lengthen. Over his three

seasons at West Virginia thus far, he has been a part of two National Championships and is pacing the team as a consistent counter as the Mountaineers search for a third-straight title under head coach Jon Hammond.

The No. 1 ranked Mountaineers will head to Oxford, Miss., on Feb. 28 to compete in the GARC Championship followed by the NCAA Championship, which will be held in Alaska March 13-14.

“We just try to go in and do our jobs. All in all, all we can control is ourselves, and so we go in and do that and wherever the chips fall, that’s where they are,” Spurgeon said.

Big Ten schools talk freshman eligibility sports writer @Dailyathenaeum

The Big Ten Conference is discussing the possibility of a “year of readiness,” which would prohibit freshmen from competition in select sports while adjusting to

college life.

“While we are comfortable generating multiple ideas about an ‘education first’ approach to intercollegiate athletics in the 21st century, we won’t go it alone on any of these matters,” Conference Commissioner James E. Delaney said in a

statement Tuesday.

“We look forward to working with our colleagues in the NCAA Division I governance structure and to exploring a broad exchange of ideas from both inside and outside of intercollegiate athletics.”

Although the Big Ten

likely won’t alter its current eligibility standards unless there’s a national consensus, several coaches within the conference have already voiced their opinions on the possibility of freshmen ineligibility.

“That would be one of the healthiest things we could do

Invitation to apply for The Daily Athenaeum 2015-2016 Assistant Student Business Manager This position will work within our sales department making sure all internal and external promotions are scheduled, promoted and attended. This position will also be heavily involved in the marketing and continued branding efforts of The Daily Athenaeum. Although poised to work directly with the Student Business Manager, this position is solely responsible for the internal marketing/public relations of The Daily Athenaeum. Our successful candidate will build and train a separate PR team and correlate the efforts of that team to communicate our internal products and services to our general audience – increasing brand awareness and ultimately sales.

Applicants must have a working knowledge of the media industry combined with an outgoing personality and inner creative genius. This position is about opportunity, growth and the ability to make a difference. It’s often the voice of The Daily Athenaeum and does work closely within our sales and editorial teams on combined goals to enhance our client/reader experiences and outcomes.

Applications are available online at www.thedaonline.com or at The Daily Athenaeum business office from 8:15am – 4:45pm Monday-Friday. Candidates are requested to read the full job description before application submission.

All applications must be received via e-mail or in the office by 5:00pm March 13, 2015. Interviews will begin with qualified candidates beginning the week of March 30, 2015.

REQUIREMENTS:

REQUIREMENTS:

1

TEAM: Join our team as we collaboratively work in order to achieve our goals.

2

CREATE: Our amazingly daily product comes to life as our editorial, sales, and production teams embrace opportunity.

3

SUCCESS: Feel the pride that comes form the experiences you’ll gain and the differences you’ll make. Grow With Us - The DA

• GPA of 2.0 or higher • Full time student • PR/Marketing, Strategic Communication majors strongly encouraged to apply.

• Ability to hold position 2015-2016 academic year.

• Ability to train last 2 weeks in April and return August 10, 2015.

Additional questions contact Joanne Hunt, Advertising and Marketing Manager Joanne.Hunt@mail.wvu.edu • 304.293.0083

To complain of discrimination in West Virginia call HUD Toll-free at 1-800-669-9777

PARKING PARKING SPACES AVAILABLE. Top of High Street. 1/year lease. $120/mo 304-685-9810.

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dasports@mail.wvu.edu

football

by dillon durst

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation of discrimination. The Daily Athenaeum will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.

for college sports right now,” said longtime Iowa football head coach Kirk Ferentz in an interview with ESPN. Ferentz compared the recruiting process to a “runaway train,” and said there’s a lot of unnecessary pressure on student-athletes that isn’t “healthy for them big-picture wise.”

“It would allow the guy to transition a little bit with a lot less fanfare and get their feet on the ground and get a good foundation established.”

However, on the other side of the spectrum, Ohio State basketball head coach Thad Matta said the freshmen ineligibility talks are hindering the Buckeyes on the recruiting trail.

“We’re getting crushed on this thing, and it’s not going to happen,” Matta told 247Sports.com. “Why they linked the Big Ten to it, I don’t know. I’ve been dealing with that the last couple days trying to explain that if it does happen – which it’s not going to – it’s not just the Big Ten. It would be across college basketball.”

Other college basketball coaches also have their doubts about the possible rule change.

“That will never happen,” said longtime Syracuse head coach Jim Boeheim Monday. “I don’t know why people are talking about it.”

While the proposed rule change has academics at its forefront, the rule would also try to nullify the “oneand-done” problem in college basketball. Seven of the past eight No. 1 NBA draft picks have been freshmen, and there’s speculation as to whether or not elite high school players would opt to go overseas for a year to compete instead of enrolling in college should the NCAA alter the rule on freshman eligibility.

“Be happy with oneand-done,” said National Basketball Player’s Association leader Michele Roberts. “It’s not going to be two-and-done.” dasports@mail.wvu.edu

FURNISHED APARTMENTS

Kingdom Properties Utilities Paid 1-7 Bedroom Houses and Apts Downtown South Park

304-292-9600 www.kingdomrentals.com

NOW LEASING FOR MAY 2015

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

304-296-3606

www.benttreecourt.com

*2 BEDROOM FURNISHED APARTMENT. 8 minutes to lair. Spacious kitchen, D/W, Microwave, Nicely Furnished, AC, Off-Street Lighted Parking.

Quiet neighborhood. Gas and water included. NO PETS. Year Lease.

304-296-7476 or www.perilliapartments.com

THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

Thursday February 26, 2015

FURNISHED APARTMENTS

FURNISHED APARTMENTS *3 BEDROOM FURNISHED APARTMENT. 2 Baths. 8 minute walk to campus. Quiet residential area. Quality furnishings. D/W, Microwave, Off-Street Lighted Parking, AC. NO PETS. Year Lease. 304-296-7476 or www.perilliapartments.com

“8 Minute Walk To Campus”

• Spacious 1,2 & 3 BD Apts.

• Some Utilities Included • Reliable Maintenance • Large Closets/2 Full Baths • Quiet Neighborhood • DW - Micro. - AC • Lighted Off Street Parking • Laundry Facilities

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NO PETS

perilliapartments.com

3BR APARTMENT on University Hill. 840 Naomi Street. Fully furnished. Each tenant pays $475/per month, including utilities and off street parking. No pets. Call Rick: 724-984-1396 SPACIOUS STUDIO. Furnished or unfurnished. Private country setting, 10min to Downtown/Evansdale. Hardwood floors, giant windows, beautiful view. $525/plus utilities. 304-216-2821 TERRACE HEIGHTS APARTMENTS 3BR Furnished Apartments Available Now $1570/month Water and Garbage included Tenant pays electric/cable/internet 304-292-8888 No pets permitted.

UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS

UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS

Available May & August

Downtown & Sunnyside

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Bedroom

Apartments , Houses, Townhouses All Utilities Paid D/W, W/D, Free Off Street Parking, 3 Min. Walk To Campus

304-292-7990

www.blueskywv.com 225, 227 JONES AVE 1-4BR $395 to $465/mo + until. Excellent condition, free off-street parking. NO PETS 304-685-3457 1,2,3,4 & 6 BR, CAMPUS AREA & SOUTH PARK. W/D, Pet Friendly. Some include utilities. Starting mid-May to June. 12-month lease / deposit.

304-292-5714 1/BR, 1 BATH CONDOS. Near Hospital.

Water & sewage paid. $600/month. W/D in unit 304-282-1184

*1 BEDROOM FURNISHED APARTMENT. 8 minute walk to lair. Quality furniture. Clean White Kitchen, D/W, Microwave, Laundry Facility, Lighted Off-Street Parking. Quiet Neighborhood. Gas and water included. NO PETS. Year Lease.

304-296-7476 or www.perilliapartments.com

1-4BR APARTMENTS AND HOUSES available in May Downtown, W/D, parking available www.geeapt.com.

Call: M-F 8am-4pm: 304-365-2787

1 & 2 Bedroom Apts 1 & 2 Bathrooms 24 Hr Emergency Maintenance & Enforcement Officer “Now Leasing for May 2015” Evansdale & Med Center

Renting for May 2015 Eff., 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms •One Bedroom as low as $440 •Two Bedrooms as low as $365 per person •Three Bedrooms as low as $340 per person * Pets Welcome * 24 Hour Emergency Maintenance * Next to Football Stadium & Hospital * State of the Art Fitness Center * Mountain Line Bus Every 15 Minutes

Office Hours

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

304-599-7474 Morgantown’s Most Luxurious Living Community www.chateauroyale apartments.com

1BR WESTOVER. $475/mth. Most utilities included. No pets. W/D. Available January.

304-288-6374 1,2,3&4BR APARTMENTS. Downtown location. Kitchen appliances furnished, decks/porches, parking. May to May lease.

304-685-6565 or 304-658-5210

2-3 BR apartment. Large, South High street, 304-692-1821.

INDIVIDUAL LEASES

2-3BRS. Walk to Campus. Parking.

Lease/Deposit. NO PETS. Avail. 6-1-15.

Max Rentals. 304-291-8423

F R E E PA R K I NG

AVAILABLE May 15, 2015 ALL SIZES ALL LOCATIONS

304-291-2103 morgantownapartmentrentals.com

2/BR SOUTH PARK. W/D. No Pets, $650/mo. 304-288-6374 ALL UTILITIES. NEWLY RENOVATED 2, 3 & 4BR APARTMENTS and HOUSES. Downtown/Evansdale. UTILITIES INCLUDED. Prime downtown location.

304-288-8955.

Barrington North NOW LEASING FOR 2015 Ask About Our Specials!

Prices Starting at $640 Security Deposit $200

1 or 2 BR APARTMENT, available in May. Parking, Washer/Dryer, AC, no pets. Some utilities included. 304-288-6374 2 BEDRM on Price with porch. W/D. D/W. AC. parking. Utilities included for $475 per person. Pets discussed. 304-284-9634.

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. Call 304-376-1894 or 304-288-0626.

1,2,3 BR. Central air. W/D. Locust street.

HTMProperties.com. 304-685-3243.

UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS

Sunnyside South Park Downtown South Park

$500 $525 $550 $650

2BD

Downtown Sunnyside Evansdale Med Center

3BD

$650 $700 $700 $800

Wiles Hill Med Center Evansdale Sunnyside

$800 $855 $1200 $1500

4BD

Star City $1200 + util Now Leasing for Spring 2015 and Now

(304) 296 - 7930

1,2,3,4,5, and 6 Bedrooms Sunnyside, South Park, Suncrest, Wiles Hill Woodburn, Evansdale and Downtown Complete rental list on

belcross.com Arthur G. Trusler III - Broker

Affordable Luxury Bon Vista & The Villas Now Leasing 2015 1 & 2 Bedroom 2 Bath Apts

Ask About Our Specials Prices starting at $530 Security Deposit $200 Walk in Closets, Jacuzzi Balcony, Elevators W/D, DW Garages, Storage Units Sparkling Heated Pool Minutes to Hospitals, Downtown and Shopping Center

NO PETS

24 Hr Maintenance / Security

304-599-1880

www.morgantownapartments.com

2 Bedroom 1 Bath 24 Hour Maintenance/Security Laundry Facilities Minutes to Hospitals & Evansdale Public Transportation

NO PETS

Available now

through May 8, 2015

1 & 2 Bedroom Apts Call for more

information.

When location and affordability are a priority for you, we are your #1 choice!

Now Offering Individual Leases

304-413-0900

www.metropropertymgmt.net

Free Parking!

NOW SHOWING FOR MAY/JUNE. 1-4 BR. Downtown and South Park. No Pets.

304-296-5931

PRETE RENTAL APARTMENTS EFF: 1BR : 2BR:

UNFURNISHED / FURNISHED

When it comes to Price, Location, and Quality We top the competition

Now Leasing

1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments

Harless Center 9 MONTH LEASES (August - May) Parking Available

Call today!

304-292-4061

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

304-599-4407 ABSOLUTELY NO PETS WWW.PRETERENTAL.COM RICE RENTALS Affordable Rent, Great Location Rent starting at $325.

Effic,1, 2, & 3/BR Leasing for May 2015 304-598-7368 ricerentals.com

FIRST MONTH RENT FREE. 146 Lorentz. 2-3BR W/D, A/C, parking, great condition. 1st house on right off Stewart St. $450/mth each. Pet friendly.

304-282-5543 or 304-296-5620

RMC Properties 3/BR, 1 bath Apts for rent.

Starting May 15. Call for more information.

304.282.8966

GREAT 2&3 BR still available on Beverly Ave. W/D, AC, off-street parking, pets considered, most utilities paid, $450/per person. 304-241-4607 if no answer call 304-282-0136

SMITH RENTALS, LLC

Quiet Peaceful Neighborhood

304-322-1112

● Houses ● 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments

304-599-6376

www.morgantownapartments.com LARGE, MODERN, 2BR. Star City. No smoking/pets 304-692-1821

MONTH TO MONTH

NOW LEASING FOR MAY 2015

Students. Faith. Community.

Check out: When location and affordability are a priority for you, we are your #1 choice!

1 & 2 Bedroom Apts 1&2 Bathrooms 24 Hr Emergency Maintenance & Enforcement Officer “Now Leasing for May 2015”

Downtown and Sunnyside

304-413-0900

www.smithrentalsllc.com

Now Leasing May 2015

TERA PROPERTIES, NEW 1 & 2 BR/ 2 Bath Apts. $635-950+ electric. Locations include: Lewis, Stewart, Irwin Streets & Idlewood Dr. New 1BR available in May on Glenn St. Walking distance to Downtown/Hospital. Hardwood floors, W/D, wifi, fitness room, tanning beds, free parking. No Pets. 304-290-7766 or 304-288-0387. www.rentalswv.com

www.metropropertymgmt.net p p y g

INDIVIDUAL LEASES F R E E PA R K I NG

NOW LEASING FOR 2015-2016. Limited 2 and 3 BR downtown. Tours on Wednesday-Thursday 1-4. Please stop by 374 Forest Avenue or call 304-692-0990.

NOW LEASING! 3, 4 & 5BR Units @ Jones Place. Starting @ $625. 1, 2 & 3BR Units High St., Spruce St., & First St. Starting @ $350. scottpropertiesllc.com 304-296-7400 NOW RENTING TOP OF FALLING RUN ROAD Morgan Point 1+2/BR $625-$825+ utilities. Semester lease. WD. DW. Parking.

NO PETS. Call: 304-290-4834.

UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS STADIUM VIEW APARTMENTS Affordable Rent, Great Location Rent starting at $350 Eff, 1 &2/BR Leasing for May 2015 304-598-7368 stadiumviewwv.com

Prices are for the total unit

1BD

1&2 BEDRM APARTMENTS. Behind Dairy Mart. AC. W/D. Parking. Pets discussed.

Call 304-284-9634

304-413-0900

www.metropropertymgmt.net

UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS BEL-CROSS PROPERTIES, LLC

1,2,3,4,BR. Most or all utilities pd. 241 Grant Ave. $500-$570/mth. 304-276-6239

When location and affordability are a priority for you, we are your #1 choice!

CLASSIFIEDS | 11

WILKINS RENTALS 304-292-5714 ____________________ UNIQUE APARTMENTS Varying sizes and styles.

Many extras and reasonable rent, with lots included!

Near Campus CALL NOW!!!

FURNISHED HOUSES BEAUTIFUL 3BR HOME, 5MIN WALK TO campus, hardwood floors, fully equipped kitchen.

Includes most utilities. $1800/month.

301-674-7846 or bmtruman@gmail.com

UNFURNISHED HOUSES 5 BEDROOM HOUSE in South Park across from Walnut Street Bridge. W/D. Call Nicole at 304-290-8972 3& 4BRS. Walk to Campus. W/D, some parking. Lease/Deposit. NO PETS. Avail.

6-1-15. Max Rentals. 304-291-8423 3BR & 4BR HOUSES AVAILABLE on Willey St. Very clean, W/D, parking. Walk to downtown campus. Available 5/15.

304-554-4135.304-594-1564.304-282-892 2.

4/BR CAMPUS AREA & BETWEEN CAMPUSES. New appliances, W/D, Off-street Parking, Pet friendly. 12-month lease / deposit. Starts June 1.

304-292-5714 4BR 2BTH 209 WAVERLY ST. Parking, W/D, Dishwasher, Deck. $400/BR + Utilities. hymarkproperties.com. 304-319-1243 AVAILABLE MAY. NEAR CAMPUS. 3-4/BR 2/BA. D/W, W/D, Off-street parking.

Full basement, backyard, covered-porch. $350/BR plus utilities. No Pets.

304-282-0344.

MUST SEE just across from Arnold Hall 3,4, 5, & 6BR and 2 & 3BATH houses with W/D, DW, Microwave, A/C, parking, all in excellent condition.

All utilities included. For appointment call 304-288-1572, 288-9662, 282-7572 website JEWELMANLLC.COM

WILKINS RENTALS 304-292-5714 ____________________ WHY LIVE LIKE EVERYBODY ELSE?

Make your new house the way YOU like it! 4 bedroom houses in convenient locations. Lots to offer!

CALL NOW!!

MOBILE HOMES FOR SALE/RENT 1994 Commodore mobile home for sale.1 occupant. Price to sell at $14999. 2 BR 2 BTH. W/D included. Call 304-906-1140.

ROOMMATES FEMALE ROOMMATE(S): Large house, 3rd floor $600+gas/electric, (space for 1 or 2) Washer/Dryer, 1 mile from campus, parking, No Pets. 304-216-0181 JUST LISTED. Across the street from Arnold Hall. Male or Female. W/D, Parking, $450-$475 all utilities included.

340-282-8131, 304-288-1572, 304-288-9662 ROOMMATES WANTED- Looking for one roommate for nice house. Private bathroom, fully furnished. A couple blocks from the Mountainlair. $500/month. Utilities included.740-381-0361 SECOND SEMESTER. Willey St. & South Park. Male or Female. 4 1/2-5 month lease. $475-$490/mth. Includes Utilities, W/D. Deposit. 304-292-5714

AUTOMOBILES FOR SALE CASH PAID!! WE BUY CARS and trucks.

Any make! Any model! Any condition!

304-282-2560

HELP WANTED BARTENDERS, BOUNCERS, COOKS WANTED! Barside Grill located in Westover, 5-minutes from downtown. Will train.

Part-time. Call/text 304-365-4565 or send resume to barsidegrill@yahoo.com

THE DAILY ATHENAEUM

12 | SPORTS

Thursday February 26, 2015

women’s tennis

kyle monroe/the dailyathenaeum

West Virginia head coach Miha Lisac talks to players Hailey Barrett and Ittkesh Chahal during their match against Youngstown State earlier this season.

Mountaineers playing better than recent years by benjamin carter

of their phenomenal accomplishments, lies perhaps the most surprising program here at West VirIn the shadows of all ginia—the women’s tennis the major sports and all team. correspondent @dailyathenaeum

Over the past two seasons, the Mountaineers’ tennis team has a winning percentage of just .200, going 7-35 with no wins coming in the Big 12 confer-

eatWELL to Nourish, sleepWELL to Flourish What does eating have to do with sleeping, and what about stress and exercise?

Join a panel of experts to learn how these behaviors are intertwined and how to be strategic about using them to optimize performance and happiness.

Wednesday, March 4, 7 PM – 8:30 PM Mountainlair Gluck Theatre

Panel Experts are: Shannon Foster, Wellbeing coach, Exercise Physiologist

ence since 2013 and not having a single player with a winning record in singles or doubles play. This year, however, things are different.

Oh, how things have changed. Under the control of second-year head coach Miha Lisac, the Mountaineers have found something they haven’t had before: Consistency.

The team is on a staggering nine-game winning streak, and if you can do the math, that is already two games more than they have won over the past two seasons.

During the streak, the Mountaineers have shut out three of their last four opponents and have held another three opponents to only one point. If that wasn’t enough, they are still undefeated in the friendly confines of Ridgeview Racquet Club, a perfect 6-0 at home, which is also more wins than the program has seen recently.

The Mountaineers are led by Kaja Mrgole, a sophomore from Slovenia who has continued to be a force after leading the team with 13 total wins in singles play last season.

This spring, Mrgole is at it again with a record of 7-2.

She now has a total of 18 wins on the year in singles play, after posting 11 wins

in the fall, holding down the No. 1 spot for the team.

Perhaps the most surprising part of the team this semester is the play they have received out of the freshmen. Anytime the youngest players on a team can come into a program and immediately make an impact is crucial, and the tennis team has just that.

The class is led by Carolina Lewis and Habiba Shaker, who have a combined singles record of 16-1 this spring; a duo like this at the No. 4 and 5 spots is a recipe for success.

Shaker was even crowned Athlete of the Week by the Varsity Sports Report for her outstanding performance last weekend in the double-header sweep versus Wright State and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

Mrgole, Lewis and Shaker aren’t the only standouts on the team, however.

“There hasn’t necessarily been an individual that has stood out,” Lisac said.

“All players have contributed to the overall success of the team, and they have stepped up during the beginning half of the season.”

Stepped up would be an understatement. Not a single player has a losing record in singles play this spring, and all but two

of the nine doubles duos have winning records, as well. That’s something that was few and far between in the past.

For a program that has barely won enough games for you to count on your fingers over the past few years, this semester, the players and coaches alike rose to the challenge and have turned it around to make great strides for the future. This team should certainly get the recognition it deserves. dasports@mail.wvu.edu

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