Jan. 26, 2011 Daily Kent Stater by The Kent Stater

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Wednesday, January 26, 2011 • The independent student newspaper of Kent State University • Weather: Cloudy, HI 30, LO 19

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President Barack Obama gives his State of the Union address to Congress on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, January 25, 2011 in Washington, D.C.

‘Move forward together or not at all’

Ben Feller

Associated Press

Pleading for unity in a newly divided government, President Barack Obama implored Democratic and Republican lawmakers to rally behind his vision of economic revival for an anxious nation, declaring in his State of the Union address Tuesday night: “We will move forward together or not at all.” To a television audience in the millions, Obama addressed a Congress sobered by the assassination attempt against one if its own members, Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. Her seat sat empty, and many lawmakers of competing parties sat together in a show of support and civility. Yet differences were still evident, as when Democrats stood to applaud his

comments on health care and tax cuts while Republicans next to them sat mute. In his best chance of the year to connect with the country, Obama devoted most of his hour-long prime-time address to the economy, the issue that dominates concern in a nation still reeling from a monster recession — and the one that will shape his own political fortunes in the 2012 election. The president unveiled an agenda of carefully balanced political goals: a burst of spending on education, research, technology and transportation to make the nation more competitive, alongside pledges, in the strongest terms of his presidency, to cut the deficit and smack down spending deemed wasteful to America.

Greg Allison JUNIOR

It seems like he’s pushing to the center since the Republicans took the House. My impression is that he is pushing towards technology and innovation. He still stands tough on foreign policy, and he doesn’t want to be seen as a wimp. Something I was really proud of that he did was that he talked about corporation tax rate.” Andrew Polz SENIOR

See OBAMA, Page 4

Fine arts professors earn art fellowship awards Kasey Fahey

kfahey@kent.edu Daily Kent Stater Two Kent State professors received a $20,000 Creative Workforce Fellowship from the Community Partners for Arts and Culture of Cuyahoga County. Of 310 applicants, 20 fellowships were given for 2011. Paul O’Keeffe, a professor of fine arts and sculpture, and Michael Loderstedt, a professor of fine arts and printmaking, each received one. “There was a lot of competition, so it was really an honor,” said Ralph Lorenz, associate dean for the College of the Arts. The artists had to submit work and write a statement. They also had to write their plan for the money. Contestants were able to listen to the panel while their art was judged. Loderstedt entered cut and folded screen prints inspired by his

trip to Germany, where he was part of the “Portrait 100” project. There, he helped start a website where people sent in images of their houses. He LODERSTEDT then turned those images into mini 3-D replicas of the houses. “Anything you make as an artist can be folded in and out,” Loderstedt said. His work is mostly done through photographic tools on Photoshop by separating images. Lately, he has been doing a lot of 3-D projects. The process of Loderstedt’s work is intricate. “I fold blank sheets of paper then put them together. Then I decide the words and fill it in with color,” Loderstedt said. “It’s really slow. It’d be nice to have a studio assistant.” With his grant, Loderstedt

bought new camera equipment and hired some assistants, one a former student. He plans to go to Europe with his students and spend spring break in Belgium. He also plans to spend the summer in Germany to do print work. Loderstedt just finished an exhibition at Frank Taal Gallery in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Currently, he is in the group show “Intersections” at Zygote Press on East 30th Street in Cleveland. The show is a collaboration between writers and artists. Loderstedt’s wife, Lori Kella, won the grant in 2009 for her photography. Loderstedt said they are one of three couples in Cuyahoga County to both have won the award. O’Keeffe uses steel, bronze and Plexiglas in his sculptures, and his work does not conform to regular narrative. “It’s a whole logistical operation when you’re making sculpture,” O’Keeffe said. He has not used any

of his grant money yet. “What I’m planning on doing is to purchase some equipment and buy some materials; because my work is not particularly commercial, it’s very large and it’s quite expensive,” O’Keeffe said. O’Keeffe recently won an Individual Excellence Award for $5,000 from the Ohio Arts Council. “I’m just grateful when I do get awards. They allow me to continue to make new work,” O’Keeffe said. “I’m also very appreciative of the Ohio Arts Council.” In December, O’Keeffe had a solo exhibition in Cleveland at the William Busta Gallery, according to the gallery’s website. “There is a lot of talent among the faculty who teach here and students who emerge,” O’Keeffe said. “We’re doing a lot of things right on a lean budget.” Kasey Fahey is the College of the Arts reporter.

24569

24000 23000

23834

22578

22353

22316

22000

21932

21000

21111

21041

20 10 S 20 10 F

20 09 F

20 09 S

20 07 F

20 06 F 20 07 S

20 08 S 20 08 F

20000

Kent State TOTAL Enrollment 42000

41365

40000

38457

38000

38196

36000 34000

34411

34056 33630

32000

34222 31851

31754

F 10

S 20

F 20

S 20

F 20

S 20

F 20

30000

Except for a few points, I am dissatisfied. Except for cutting the corporation tax cuts, I see everything else as a negative factor on the economy. It’s not good for the market. I think it’s going to keep the market slow and slow down the economic recovery. ...I just hope that the Republican House can keep their word because otherwise, we’re going to be going nowhere.”

25000

Corey Moore FRESHMAN

25848

It’s just the same old, same old. He just gets on the stage and lies through his teeth. It’s not just him; it’s every president.

26000

STUDENT REACTIONS

Research, Planning & Institutional Effectiveness

Record increase in spring enrollment Christine Morgan

Cmorga20@kent.edu Daily Kent Stater Kent State spring semester enrollment has increased a record of 4.56 percent across the eightcampus system. According to 15th day statistics released yesterday, the university reported an increase in undergraduate and graduate enrollment. “Students are looking for that academic experience inside and outside the classroom,” said T. David Garcia, associate vice president of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs. “I think for some students who live locally, they come to Kent because of they are able to commute from home.

“We are continuing to see growth at our regional campuses because of the affordability factor. The cost is much lower than the cost of attending Kent State, and plus they don’t have the requirement of living on campus.” The Kent campus reports a 5.31 percent increase and a 4.63 percent increase at the regional campuses for the spring semester. There are 25,747 students attending the Kent campus this spring, compared to 24,449 students in the spring of 2010. Greg Jarvie, vice president of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs, said enrollment can be credited to the helpful faculty, staff and great academic programs. See ENROLLMENT, Page 4

Celebration, speaker to honor King’s legacy Speech focuses on empowerment and community awareness Daniel Moore

dmoore63@kent.edu Daily Kent Stater Former NAACP President Kweisi Mfume will address students, faculty and staff Thursday on the topic of “Empowering the Individual, Strengthening the Community.” This is the theme for the ninth annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, which will be held in the Kent Student Center and KIVA, beginning at 1 p.m. “We are the sum of our experiences, and I’m not an exception to that,” said Mfume, who was selected to speak by the MLK Committee. “All that I’ve gone through and been a part of gives me a perspective on that theme.” The first part of the event will take place in the Kiva, featuring

dance, music and spoken word performances. At 2:10 p.m. the festivities will be moved to the Kent Student Center Ballroom, where President Lester Lefton will MFUME make remarks before Mfume speaks. “I think his message is going to bring an understanding into the life of Dr. Martin Luther King,” said Geraldine Hayes-Nelson, the assistant vice president for Pipeline Initiatives and Diversity Programming. Mfume served on Baltimore City Council from 1978 to 1986, when he was elected to Congress. During five terms as a Democrat from Maryland, he served on the Banking and Financial Services, Education, Small Business and Ethics committees and chaired the Congressional Black Caucus, according to a Kent State press release. See MLK, Page 4

Page 2 | Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Daily Kent Stater

TODAY’S EVENTS n Undergraduate Student Government Meeting When: 8 a.m. Where: Governance Chambers

DAILY KENT STATER

n Campus Conversations When: 2 p.m. Where: Student Center Room 320

n “West African Muslim Societies Lecture & Discussion” When: 7 p.m. Where: Oscar Ritchie Hall Room 214

n Phi

n Face

Sigma Pi Sledding and Hot Cocoa Night When: 6:30 p.m. Where: Honors College Library

n Study Abroad Fair When: 1:30 p.m. Where: Student Center

n Navigators meeting When: 9 p.m. Where: Bowman Hall Room 133

Managing editor Kelly Byer kbyer@kent.edu

its full enrollment of 24 students. “In the classroom, we focus on building strength, body language, awareness, adrenal stress training, etc,” Hickey said. “At the end of the course, through scenario based training, the goal is to develop a student with skills of diffusing conflict, avoiding conflict and avoidance of violence.” Hickey also said students will learn the basic idea of self-defense and how to deal with it mentally and physically. This semester, two sections of the course are being offered. Hickey said the class has always been popular and will continue to be offered every semester. Katie Sena, freshman exploratory major, said she wanted to learn to defend herself. “I took the class because it fit into my schedule,” she said. “And I wanted to learn to kick ass.” If students have a full schedule, though, they can take a similar course at the SRWC. Rachael Decker, the wellness

study abroad trips are a great addition to a college education. “These are really wonderful opportunities to get focused knowledge and international experience,” Cohen said. Study abroad opportunities are available to everyone, she said. “The university’s goal is to make sure every student gets the opportunity to have an international experience,” said Cohen.

cerbache@kent.edu Assistant sports editor

coordinator at the SRWC, said the course costs $25 for students and is offered every semester. This semester, it is offered on Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. “Participants will learn some b as ic s e lf-de fe ns e tac tic s and moves,” Decker said. “For example, how to defend yourself against an attack from behind, or how to break free of a choke hold.” Adam Kee, an instructor at the SRWC, said there are currently six people participating in his course, and self-defense is always a useful skill on a college campus. “Don’t freeze in any situation,” he said. “When it happens, it will happen fast and be over fast. Doing something is much better than not doing anything at all.” Mack is learning to defend herself by taking the course with Hickey. “If in a dangerous situation,” Mack said, “this class will definitely help someone protect themselves from an attacker.” Maura Zurich is the safety reporter.

Some of the locations for study abroad programs include Spain, Ghana, England, Mexico and Japan. Short-term, facultyled programs are also available. They can range from one to six weeks in Uganda, Ireland, China, Italy and many other countries around the world. — Akilah Porter

Cody Erbacher

Kelly Petryszyn

Lance Lysowski

Taylor Rogers

OPINION

kpetrysz@kent.edu

OIA to host study abroad fair The Office of International Affairs will host a study abroad fair Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the second floor of the Student Center. Information will be provided on the many study abroad programs and available scholarships. Attendants can also win prizes, including a $1,000 scholarship. Jessica Cohen, market coordinator for OIA, said she thinks all

Sports editor

lcoutre@kent.edu einverso@kent.edu

Students protect themselves with self-defense class After her ex-boyfriend abused her, Allie Mack enrolled in a selfdefense class to get into shape and learn how to protect herself. “I took this class because, last year, my ex-boyfriend beat the crap out of me, and I was scared to defend myself,” said Mack, a sophomore math major. “I thought taking this class would teach me not to be scared when in that type of situation and how to react and defend against that.” Self-defense classes are offered both as a course and at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center to help students and faculty learn defense skills. Self-defense has been offered as a physical education course for 20 years. Pamela Hickey, the self-defense instructor since the early 1990s, said almost every semester, the class meets

SPORTS

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Emily Inverso

Go to KentWired.com to see the interactive entertainment calendar. The calendar covers entertainment events on campus and in the city of Kent.

Daily Kent Stater

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AIDS meeting When: 9 p.m. Where: Student Center Room 322

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Sophomore Steven Kiel assists professor Pamela Hickey as she shows students how to properly use the “bag,” a special piece of equipment.

African Muslim panel to discuss immigration “West African Muslim Societies and their Contributions to World and U.S. Culture,” a free lecture and panel discussion, will take place Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the second floor Lecture Hall in Oscar Ritchie Hall. The Department of PanAfrican Studies at Kent State University and the Office of Student Life at Cuyahoga Community College are sponsoring the event, with an early meet

and greet of the panelists beginning at 5:30 p.m. Wendy Wilson-Fall, chair of the department of PanAfrican Studies, said a short reception will follow from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. “One of the overriding themes is African Muslim immigrants in the United States who are kind of an invisible group,” Wilson-Fall said. — Ryan Collins

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CORRECTIONS The Daily Kent Stater recognizes the responsibility to correct errors that occur in the newspaper. When errors occur in the newspaper, corrections will appear in this space as promptly as possible.

OPINION

Daily Kent Stater

The Opinion Page is an outlet for our community’s varied opinions. Submit letters to: Letters to the Editor Daily Kent Stater 240 Franklin Hall/KSU Kent, Ohio 44242 ■ stater@kent.edu Subject: Letters to the Editor ■ Fax: 330-672-5064 ■ Be sure to include your phone number.

Wednesday, January 26, 2011 | Page 3

ABOUT THE OPINION PAGE The Stater hopes to encourage lively debate about the issues of the day on the Opinion Page. Opinions on this page are the authors’ and not necessarily endorsed by the Stater or its editors. Readers are encouraged to participate through letters to the editor and guest columns. Submissions become property of the Stater and may be edited for mechanics, Associated Press style and length without notice. Letters should not exceed 350 words, and guest columns should not exceed 550 words.

our

VIEW

Faculty deserve a pat on the back, too

FAMOUS QUOTE

ent State set a record high for spring enrollment this semester. The university reported Tuesday that its Spring 2011 student enrollment for the eight-campus system is 39,936, up 4.56 percent compared to one year ago. President Lester Lefton attributed the record to the national and international reputation Kent State has built recently. In 2010, the university ranked among other top universities in two different reports. “Kent State’s reputation is reaching those beyond our campuses and northeast Ohio, drawing students near and far who recognize the value of a Kent State education,” Lefton said in a press release. We agree that the university’s national and global notoriety has directly impacted enrollment figures. But we also believe we ought to

“A man always has two reasons for doing anything: a good reason and the real reason.” — J. P. Morgan

DREW SHENEMAN’S VIEW

DKS EDITORIAL BOARD Regina Garcia Cano Editor Josh Johnston Managing editor Rabab Al-Sharif Opinion editor

Laura Lofgren Features team leader/A.L.L. editor Lydia Coutré Assigning editor Hannah Potes Assistant photo editor

SUMMARY: While President Lester Lefton attributed Kent State’s increase in enrollment to the university’s national and international reputation, we would also like to credit the faculty who help retain students.

credit these enrollment numbers to a group of people who on a daily basis build Kent State’s reputation: faculty. Every day, in the eight regional campuses, hundreds of faculty members stand in front of a classroom and teach their hearts out, striving to prepare us for a successful career. Granted, we have all had great and not-sogreat educational experiences, but all professors have taught us a lesson that will help us face our future with clearer eyes. These people are the ones who inspire us to go to class, return semester after semester and not give up on our goal of obtaining our diploma. We are glad to know that the university’s national and international recruitment initiatives have paid off, resulting in a larger, diversified student body. But our congratulations go to the faculty that purposely – or not – have

worked to retain the undergraduates and graduates who have made a commitment with Kent State. We applaud the university for setting this enrollment record and encourage its administrators to continue to improve Kent State’s reputation. However, we also hope that as administrators continue on making Kent State competitive in the global arena, they don’t lose sight of the faculty who help bring students back to campus. We complete our degrees so we can flow into the new, competitive pipeline we call the “real world.” The above editorial is the consensus opinion of the Daily Kent Stater editorial board whose members are listed to the left.

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DID YOU KNOW? On January 26, 1788, Captain Arthur Phillip guides a fleet of 11 British ships carrying convicts to the colony of New South Wales, effectively founding Australia. After overcoming a period of hardship, the fledgling colony began to celebrate the anniversary of this date with great fanfare. — history.com

their

VIEW

Connecticut senator not seeking another term

When independent Sen. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut announced Wednesday that he wouldn’t seek a fifth term, there was hardly a wet eye in the house. It’s hard to find anybody, conservative or liberal, who has nice things to say about Lieberman, who is so disliked in his home state that the threat of competition from a former pro-wrestling promoter was apparently enough to scare him away from the 2012 Senate race. But we suspect Lieberman’s detractors will miss him more than they realize. Nominally independent, Lieberman votes the Democratic Party line most of the time, yet displays strong neoconservative leanings and has frequent fits of non-Democratic behavior, such as his endorsement of Republican Sen. John McCain of Arizona in the 2008 presidential race. He is an abortion-rights advocate who wants to restrict “immoral” media offerings, and a backer of civil rights who worked hard to end discrimination against gays in the military yet is far less scrupulous about the rights of Muslims, assailing the so-called Ground Zero mosque and proposing a bill to strip U.S. citizenship from those who are merely suspected of belonging to a foreign terrorist organization. There was a time when such an odd breed was more common, when such senators as Wendell Wilkie, Jacob Javits, Lowell Weicker Jr., John Chafee, Henry

“Scoop” Jackson and Arlen Specter espoused views that frequently crossed party lines. Like them, Lieberman has often served as the Senate’s go-to guy on centrist initiatives, helping to break partisan logjams. He led an admirable, yearslong struggle with McCain to work out a deal on limiting greenhouse gas emissions, for example, and when Republicans threatened to use the “nuclear option” to limit Democratic filibusters of judicial nominees in 2005, Lieberman was a key member of the “Gang of 14” centrist senators that headed off a crisis. Yet Lieberman has not always used his power as a swing voter for good. His efforts to stall the Democratic healthcare reform bill nearly killed it, and he helped put a patina of bipartisanship on President Bush’s disastrous Iraq war decisions. There are still a handful of bridge builders left. California’s own Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein or Maine’s Republican Sen. Olympia Snowe may step up to play that important role when Lieberman is gone. But we can’t help but suspect that as the number of iconoclasts, aisle crossers and centrists diminishes in the Senate, less and less will get done. The above editorial appeared in the Los Angeles Times.

Good intentions, bad abuses Maybe the shocking reports that corruption eats huge chunks of the money flowing through the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria carry an important lesson for all of us: Just because famous people support a thing doesn’t make it a sound enterprise. To be fair, the abuses of the funds were committed by those allegedly using the cash on the ground to help people. The fund itself was getting the money to those claiming they would help. But too often it didn’t turn out that way. A new audit shows 67 percent of the money that went into Mauritania for health programs was taken through faked invoices and documents. Elsewhere, workers were created, or their names forged, so others could claim per diems and expenses. Cars and motorcycles

were bought without receipts. In perhaps the most frustrating form of abuse, when people donated malaria drugs to avoid the potential theft of money, the drugs were stolen and sold on the black market. It wasn’t long ago that Bono was urging support for the fund, and Bill and Melinda Gates have been donating $150 million a year. The fund was set up as a way to get around the bureaucracy of the United Nations, and there is no doubt it has also done much good. But the scope of these abuses serves as a good reminder that strict oversight is the best tool to curb waste and fraud. The role of inspectors general must be protected and expanded. The above editorial appeared in the Kansas City Star.

What if Shakespeare was a woman? In a literature course here at Kent State, the professor said these words while giving a lecture, and for some reason they stuck out: “Genius transcends gender.” After furiously scribbling them down on a spare piece of paper — writers have a habit of doing this — I recently came back to it reminiscing on the lecture. The class discussion was about Shakespeare, and after reviewing some of his poems, the next task was — Romeo and Juliet. Ego intact, I thought this would be another review of the same play that had been shoved down our throats in every English class in high school. Wasn’t this college? Under this impression, can you believe how surprised I was, mid-doodle, to hear the professor bring up the possibility that Shakespeare was a woman? And there I was under the impression that it was going to be the usual review. Instead, we went into an in-depth review of the complexity of this legendary play that has maintained its place in the literary world, classrooms and box offices.

Cassandra Adams To top it all off, this love story, that has even made its way as the theme of one of Taylor Swift’s biggest songs, had yet another layer. The motivation behind the text, she argued, was not really Romeo, but in fact, Juliet. The context is actually of Juliet’s coming of age and identity — something that many young people and college students can relate to. This type of theme is universal and allows it to reach people since it was written to the present day. So what’s the reasoning behind why Shakespeare could be a woman, some even say his wife? Because the understanding of the female role and her place in society seemed so innately captured, that it is argu-

able that a man could not have this type of awareness. But, don’t shoot the messenger. During that time, it was common for a female writer to use a pen name in order to appeal more to readers and gain more recognition. This practice hasn’t left us yet. J.K. Rowling did something similar by following her editor’s advice in initialing her name to make her books more marketable. So, was the legendary Shakespeare actually a woman? While it may never be discovered in our time, the point the professor allowed for debate was that whether, male or female, in any field, and in this case literature, any of the distinguishing writers – Twain, Dickinson, Austen, Hemmingway, Clifton and Shakespeare – could overcome social and gender norms, allowing them the ability to understand human nature universally and give the audience a chance to re-define the way we think and live. Cassandra Adams is a columnist for the Daily Kent Stater.

When is butting-in acceptable? You’ve probably been in this scenario before: You’re standing in line at in the Student Center to get food, or you’re at the library or any other spot on campus where space is limited, and there are people nearby having a conversation you find very interesting. Depending on the subject matter, you could be simply intrigued or feel very passionately and therefore desperate to throw in your two cents. However, societal norms say that it is rude to simply interject your own opinion in someone else’s conversation — especially if it’s a conversation among strangers. I have to confess, I am guilty of doing exactly that. In fact, that’s how I met one of my current friends. I was studying at a table in the Student Center when I overheard her talking with two other people about religious fundamentalism in America (yes, you read that right). Once I overheard what was being said, there was no way I could concentrate on my homework, so I casually made my way over (which was only about three feet from where I was sitting), introduced myself and joined in. Thankfully, my intervening in that particular discussion

SarahBeth Caplin was welcomed and not scorned; however, it could have gone much worse because I was technically being rude by intruding. Most people have unique “how we met” stories that involve a variety of social events under many different circumstances. While joining in on discussions you find interesting is one way to meet people, I definitely wouldn’t recommend it on a regular basis for the obvious reason that it’s simply not your place to do so. Then again, there are some topics of conversation that I feel are not suitable for public discussion, and in some cases, you can’t be at all surprised if other people decide to join in. One of those subjects is politics — the best and fastest way to get anybody fired up. Another hot topic, pardon the pun, is sex.

On a separate occasion while waiting in line for food at Eastway Center, I stood in front of a girl who was discussing her latest drunken exploit to a friend on her cell phone. This girl was clearly distraught that the guy she sloppily hooked up with the night before wasn’t as cute as she assumed he was after she sobered up the next morning. Naturally, I turned around with a shocked expression on my face. Come on, wouldn’t you? The girl took my reaction personally and yelled at me for being “so rude” for “judging” her while she was “having a private conversation.” Clearly, some degree of common sense must be used when deciding what to talk about in public. I’m sorry, but there is no such thing as a private conversation when you’re sandwiched between people in line at any dining hall on the Kent campus. Sometimes it’s appropriate to join in, but use discretion. If your conversation is intended to be completely private, stay at home.

SarahBeth Caplin is a senior English major and a columnist for the Daily Kent Stater.

Page 4 | Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Daily Kent Stater

Students finance education through plasma donation Leighann McGivern Daily Kent Stater

lmcgive2@kent.edu M arcella R obi son , j u n i o r political science major, has been donating plasma since her freshman year at Kent State to cover the cost of attending college. Many students like Robison are turning to plasma donation as a way to fund their tuition or just have extra spending money. Robison said she typically tries to donate once or twice a week. “I found out about it through a friend that was doing it,” Robison said. “I was paying for school out-of-pocket, so I was trying to get some extra money to help me out. That’s how it started off.” William Sekerak, freshman exploratory major, said he also found out about plasma donation by word-of-mouth. “I think someone just threw it out there as an idea because I was From Page 1

OBAMA ‘Move forward together or not at all’ Yet he never explained how he’d pull that off or what specifically would be cut. Obama did pledge to veto any bill with earmarks, the term used for lawmakers’ pet projects. Boehner and other Republicans applauded. But Obama’s promise drew a rebuke from his own party even before he spoke, as Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., said the president had “enough power already” and that plans to ban earmarks were “a lot of pretty talk.” Obama’s proposals Tuesday night included cutting the corporate tax, providing wireless services for almost the whole nation, consolidating government agencies and freezing most discretionary federal spending for the next five years. In the over-arching theme of his speech, the president told the lawmakers: “The future is ours to win.” Yet, Republicans have dismissed his “investment” proposals as merely new spending. Republican Rep. Paul Ryan of Wisconsin, giving the GOP’s response, said the nation was at a tipping point leading to a dire future if federal deficits aren’t trimmed. Ryan was to promote budget cuts as essential to responsible governing, speaking from the hearing room of the House Budget Committee, which he now chairs. Obama entered the House chamber to prolonged applause and to the unusual sight of Republicans and Democrats seated next to one another rather than on different sides of the center aisle. And he began with a political grace note, taking a moment to congratulate Boehner, the new Republican speaker of the House. Calling for a new day of cooperation, Obama said: “What comes of this moment will be determined not by whether we can sit together tonight but whether we can work together tomorrow.” On a night typically known for its political theater, the lawmakers sometimes seemed subdued, as if still in the shadow of the Arizona shootings. Many in both parties wore black-

talking about needing money, and it was more legitimate than my other ideas,” Sekerak said. Sekerak said he used to donate once or twice a week, but no longer goes as often. Both Robison and Sekerak said they usually donate at Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Plasma in Akron. Donors at CSL Plasma are compensated on the spot, with payment amounts varying based on body weight. For the first five times people donate, those who weigh between 110 and 149 pounds receive $35, and those weighing over 150 pounds receive $50. After the first five donations, the compensation depends upon the number of times a person donates in a week, according to published information at CSL’s Akron Center. Chris Florentz, who is in charge of corporate communications for CSL Plasma, said plasma

is the clear liquid portion that remains after the removal of all other components, including red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Plasma makes up about 55 percent of a person’s blood. He said people can donate plasma more often than they can give blood because the process separates plasma from the red blood cells, which are then returned to the body. “Donors are allowed to donate plasma twice a week as long as they aren’t donating on consecutive days,” Florentz said. Robison said she prefers donating plasma to giving blood. “I feel completely drained after donating blood, like I can’t do anything for the rest of the day,” Robison said. “When I donate plasma I feel fine.” Both Robison and Sekerak have also donated through Talecris Plasma Resources, which has locations in Akron and Canton. Te l a c r i s c o m p e n s a t e s i t s

donors $60 the first two times they donate, regardless of body weight, then the amount depends on the location and number of times a person donates in a week. Florentz said students’ decisions to donate plasma shouldn’t be based solely upon financial compensation. CSL Plasma is a partner of CSL Behring, which produces therapies to treat people with rare and serious diseases, said Florentz. “CSL Plasma operates one of the largest plasma collection centers in the world, and then that plasma is used by CSL Behring to make products that treat diseases such as hemophilia and immune deficiencies,” Florentz said. “The products are also used in cardiac surgery and a whole host of other rare disease situations.” Florentz said he thinks the most compelling reason to donate is that it can save someone’s life. “Folks who donate plasma – they’re really making a differ-

ence in the lives of people who have rare diseases that otherwise either might not be able to survive or certainly might have a very diminished quality of life without it,” Florentz said. Robison said that for her, donating plasma isn’t all about the money. “Yeah, the money is a nice part, but you know you’re helping save lives that just donating regular blood isn’t going to get you,” Robison said. Sekerak said he’d recommend donating plasma to anyone looking to make some extra money and also support a good cause. “I don’t know what all they do with it, but I know it saves lives and helps people out, so you get a good feeling out of it,” Sekerak said. Leighann McGivern is the student finance and college of business reporter.

and-white lapel ribbons, signifying the deaths in Tucson and the hopes of the survivors. Giffords’s husband was watching the speech from her bedside, as he held her hand. At times, Obama delivered lighter comments, seeming to surprise his audience with the way he lampooned what he suggested was the government’s illogical regulation of salmon. Halfway through his term, Obama stepped into this moment on the upswing, with a series of recent legislative wins in his pocket and praise from all corners for the way he responded to the shooting rampage in Arizona. But he confronts the political reality is that he must to lead a divided government for the first time, with more than half of all Americans disapproving of the way he is handling the economy. Over his shoulder a reminder of the shift in power on Capitol Hill: Boehner, in the seat that had been held by Democratic Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Obama conceded that everything he asked for would prompt more partisan disputes. “It will take time,” he said. “And it will be harder because we will argue about everything. The cost. The details. The letter of every law.” Obama used the stories of some of the guests sitting with his wife, Michelle, to illustrate his points, including a small business owner who, in the tradition of American ingenuity, designed a drilling technology that helped rescue the Chilean miners. The president cast the challenges facing the United States as bigger than either party. He said the nation was facing a new “Sputnik” moment, and he urged efforts to create a wave of innovation to create jobs and a vibrant economic future, just as the nation vigorously responded to the Soviets beating the U.S. into space a half century ago. There was less of the seesaw applause typical of State of the Union speeches in years past, where Democrats stood to applaud certain lines and Republicans embraced others. Members of the two parties found plenty of lines worthy of bipartisan applause.

From Page 1

Spring 2011. Garcia said retention rates are up because students continue to seek out their undergraduate degree. He also mentioned that graduate enrollment is up 2.63 percent partially because of the rough job market. “Rather than sit idle, many students are continuing to graduate college,” Garcia said. “We know that some college graduates choose to continue with a graduate program. In most cases it’s because they can’t find a job.” Garcia mentioned that the number of applications received from prospective students increased by 7.9 percent, beating

the previous record of applications received in the fall of 2009. Garcia said he is pleased with the spring enrollment results. He has high hopes that the university will continue to see growth in the Fall 2011 semester. “I think these numbers are excellent,” Garcia said. “It is accredited to our tremendous faculty and staff who are working to make Kent State a great place to attend. This is an exciting time for Kent State to see this type of growth, and not every college can say that.”

He is not a pessimist about the next generation, he said, and will urge older listeners of his speech to inspire young people even though they “don’t understand” their dress, music and way of life. “Just as people inspired my generation to do more, that’s the role of older people in this society,” he said. “You have to trust and believe that the next generation has the right values.” Mfume also has advice for how the city and university can work together. He said the town needs to see the student population as an asset, not a liability. “The town benefits from the presence of a university — a group of well-trained young people who come from diverse backgrounds who have a new

way of looking at life,” he said. Nelson said Mfume’s experiences with the NAACP and his role in government will bring people together. “We wanted somebody who would resonate with the faculty, staff and student,” Nelson said. Mfume said he doesn’t want to tell students what to do but wants to make sure they do something. “I don’t know I necessarily inspire people,” Mfume said. “But I know what hard work and attention to detail bring. This isn’t a pie in the sky. It’s a formula that has worked for years.”

ENROLLMENT Record increase in spring enrollment “That’s where we win out, when we can have faculty and staff that can spend a little extra time with a student,” Jarvie said. “I’m a believer that we have great flagship programs, such as architecture, journalism, fashion and nursing. We are very fortunate; students who come here get a great education.” Kent State reports a 91.7 percent retention rate for 2010 first-time freshmen enrolled for From Page 1

MLK

Celebration, speaker to honor King’s legacy He became the 15th president and CEO of the NAACP in 1996, serving until he resigned in late 2004 to pursue other interests. Mfume said he decided to come to Kent State because of his “sense of respect for the student movement.” He also said he has the May 4 tragedy in the back of his head. “It (Kent State) has always been special to me,” Mfume said. “All over the nation, that (May 4) affected all of us, because we knew it could’ve easily been us.”

Christine Morgan is the student affairs reporter.

Daniel Moore is the diversity reporter.

PLASMA CLINICS AND HOW MUCH THEY PAY CSL Plasma n First

5 visits: $50

n $20

for every time after, and $35 the second time in a week Telacris

n First

2 visits: $60

n $20

first visit in a week, $40 for second visit in a week

POLICE BLOTTER The blotter is a record of charges filed by the police. The listings do not represent convictions or reflect guilt. It is the Daily Kent Stater’s policy to publish on-campus and off campus arrests, charges and incidents of interest to the public.

CITY Monday n Shane J. Nutter, 32, of Ravenna was arrested for driving under suspension at the 1000 block of South Water Street.

n John T. Finnerty IV, 33, of Kent was arrested for driving under suspension at the intersection of Walnut Street and Cherry Street.

Tuesday n Homell T. Calhoun, 33, of Akron was

arrested for fictitious plates and possession of dangerous drugs at the intersection of South Water Street and East Hall Street. n Matthew D. Harris, 26, of Akron was arrested for drunken driving at the intersection of West Main Street and Longmere Drive.

CAMPUS TUESDAY n Sean B. Jepperson, 20, of Lakewood, was arrested for possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia at Senhauser and Eastway Drive.

n Samuel A. Ertle, 18, of North Canton, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia at Senhauser and Eastway Drive.

Daily Kent Stater

For information about placing a Display ad please call our offices at 330-672-2586 or visit us at 205 Franklin Hall, Kent State University. Our office hours are from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Wednesday, January 26, 2011 | Page 5

CLASSIFIEDS

Classified ads can be placed by FAX at ( 330) 672-4880, over the phone at (330) 672-2586 or by e-mail at ksuads@yahoo.com. If you fax or e-mail an ad, please be sure to include run dates, payment info and a way for us to contact you.

www.Kentwired.com

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horoscope By Nancy Black Today’s birthday (01/26/11) This year presents a great opportunity to start those projects that require patience ... the ones whose fruit taste sweeter because you have to wait longer. You may not even get to see the results, but your grandchildren and great-grandchildren will. Don’t be afraid to share your knowledge. To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

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Aries (March 21–April 19) Today is a 7 — It’s a good day to go exercise, burn some toxins and get reinvigorated ... even if you don’t feel like it. You’ll feel great afterwards. Others notice.

Leo (July 23–Aug. 22) Today is a 7 — Someone enters your work sphere with a new, natural solution. Everything suddenly makes more sense. Listen well, and you can use those ideas for impressive results.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Today is a 7 — Carry new ideas back to the group as soon as you understand them fully yourself. This relieves any anxiety, and provides new structures for collaboration.

Taurus (April 20–May 20) Today is a 7 — Someone you respect suggests a dynamic plan for the day. Fit this into your thinking without losing track of personal responsibilities. Call home to check in.

Virgo (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Today is a 6 — Don’t drag your feet when someone poses a serious question. Look for answers close to home, and handle any problems on a basic, practical level.

Capricorn (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Today is a 7 — Put on your professional role to handle any practical objections. Although you have creative ideas, logic rules now. Save those imaginative thoughts.

Gemini (May 21–June 21) Today is a 7 — Use all of your logical notes to create just the right tone. Others feel lucky to share the song. For something beautiful, allow change to occur in its own rhythm.

Libra (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Today is a 6 — Conversations with an older person show the challenge and potential in a household activity. Add physical strength to someone else’s skills to get it done.

Aquarius (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Today is a 7 — Tackle business issues with a creative, open mind. Each obstacle gives way, as you perceive its inherent opportunity. Final results are brilliant.

Cancer (June 22–July 22) Today is an 8 — Ask each team member to share their logic about today’s challenges. Obstacles become opportunities when you have multiple options and can form a consensus.

Scorpio (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Today is a 6 — An older person points out a different kind of logic. Ask questions to understand the details. Then make the changes that you now see clearly.

Pisces (Feb. 19–March 20) Today is a 6 — One group member is not listening to suggestions. Everything seems stuck. A complete change in direction may work, to look at it from another side.

NO WATER BILL! NO GAS BILL! 4&5 bedroom duplex available for Fall 2011 Near campus and bus route Starting at $350/month per bedroom Call Sweeney: 330-267-9336 Shrewsberry Rentals 4 and 6 bedrooms. 4 bedrooms $1475. 6 bedrooms $2,100. Trash, sewer, and recycling paid. 330-221-2881

Spin Cycle Laundromat Now Open! Next to Evergreen Buffet CONNECT. ENGAGE. ACHIEVE. UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT GOVERNMENT (USG) 19 elected 6 appointed positions APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE - 226 KSC Info: usg@kent.edu or 330-672-3207 WEDNESDAYS $5.00 Reubens All Day at Franklin Square Deli Downtown! 330-673-2942 The Deli Delivers! 4:308:30 Monday-Saturday

PLAY SPORTS! HAVE FUN! SAVE MONEY! Maine camp needs fun-loving counselors to teach All land, adventure & water sports. Great Summer! Call 888-844-8080, apply: campcedar.com $8-10/hour doing maintenance cleaning for office. As little as 6 hour/week. Must have reliable transportation. To apply call 330-3383237 and schedule an interview. Attendant for female w/ disability. Mornings and early evenings available. Able to drive van. 330678-7747 House Cleaning Position, Days Only, Dependable, Honest. Start Immediately 330-389-1154

All real estate advertised herin is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” State and local laws forbid discrimination based on factors in addition to those protected under federal law. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. If you feel you have been wrongfully denied housing or discriminated against, call the FHAA at 330-253-2450 for more information. Efficiency and 1 bdrm apartments available now. Heat included! Call 330-678-0746 Hurry!!! Efficiency apartments still left. Call 330-678-0123 $100 OFF 1ST MONTH’S RENT Kent: 2-3 bdrm spacious apt. move in now Call 330-678-0823 NOW LEASING FOR FALL 5,4,2,1 bedroom Houses. Efficiency. Good Location Near KSU. Call 330-734-8350 Kent$525,

FOCUS ON SUCCESSFUL PROGRAMMING *A Student Organization MiniConference* Tuesday, February 1 6-10 p.m. All sessions in 313 Kent Student Center Four hours. Four topics designed to help student organizations program more successfully. Topics: -Programming: Sweating the Small Stuff -Budgeting 101 -Marketing: What You Need to Know -Understanding the Allocations Process For questions or to sign up to attend, call the Center for Student Involvement, 330-672-2480, or email lead@kent.edu

Buyer Beware! We make every effort to screen for fraudulent advertising, however, we cannot guarantee the veracity of the advertisers and their messages in this section. It is important for consumers to respond to any advertisement with the utmost caution.

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WHITEHALL EAST TOWNHOMES 4/5 bedrooms, 3 bath CONDO. AFFORDABLE rent options with utilities included starting at $365/ mo. Newly renovated, flooring, all appliances included, lighted parking and entrances, on the Campus bus line, near rec center. Get your group and call 330.689.8888. www.whitehalleast.com For 2011-12: One Month Free Close to Campus 2 huge apartments, licensed, private parking, large yard, large front porch. 4 bedroom $1400/$350 each. 4/5 bedroom $1500, $300-$375 each. (330) 626-3957 KENT RENTALS 3, 4 and 5 bedroom houses. Call Rich 330-730-4004. University Townhomes and Whitehall East Townhomes 4/5 bedroom townhomes available for Fall 2011. All utilities included, starting at $340. 440-336-6761 www.kenttownhomes.com. Spacious 4&5 bedrooms houses with 2 full baths. Great condition, great location, A/C, W/D, dishwasher, deck, garage. Several units available: -Deluxe 4/5 bedroom units. $360 per room. -All inclusive, $350 per room. -University Townhouse. $275 per room. 330-808-4045 Kent near downtown and campus 2 bedroom apartment, all utilities paid except electric, $350/bedroom + security deposit. (330) 676-9440

Rent Buckeye Parks Mgmt. Serving Kent for over 30 years 2011-2012 Leases 1,2,3,4 bdrm apts 3&4 bdrm townhomes 5,6 bdrm apts Some include utilities Prices starting at $375 per room 330-678-3047 BuckeyeParksMgmt.com Leasing for fall, newer 5 bedroom 2 bathroom house. Huge private yard, large deck, close to campus $1600/ mo. Call Mike 330-554-3976 Leasing for Fall: South Lincoln St. Condo. 2 bedroom 1.5 bath. No pets, heat included. $725/mo. 216524-0745 UNIVERSITY TOWN HOMES 4-5 bedrooms 2.5 baths W/D Newly remodeled. ALL utilities included. $340/mo/bdrm. www.university-townhomes.com 440-708-2372 HIDDEN PINES Town homes 4 bedrooms 2 bath. W/D. ALL utilities included. $365/mo/bdrm www.hidden-pines.com 440-708-2372 AVAILABLE FALL: UNIVERSITY TOWNHOUSE. 5 BDS, 2.5 BATHS, STOVE REFRIG, DISHWASHER, WASHER/DRYER, A/C. $250.00 PER PERSON ; WWW.JLCASTO.COM CALL 330-688-7040. KENT/BRIMFIELD. Newer 3, 4, & 5 Bdrm duplexes. 1 car garage. $900$1200 per month. 330-338-5841 or 330-329-1118 kentarearentals.com $495.00 FIRST 3 MONTHS. 2BD 1BTH TOWNHOME. LAUNDRY, CARPORT. jlcasto.com 330-688-7040 3 Bedroom house available for Fall. Great condition, full appliances, $375 bedroom 1, $350 per bedroom 2 and 3. Close to Campus 330-6731225 www.kentstudentrentals.com

Rent Whitehall East Town Homes AKA “The New Town Homes” Whitehall Blvd. off Summit Now taking apps for Fall 2011 *5b/3ba *All Appliances Included *Dishwasher, Washer, Dryer *Lighted Parking *Many units with all newer flooring Rent plans starting at $290/person/ month Ask about the all-inclusive plans Call or text 330-990-4019 www.whitehall-east.com 3 bedroom, 3 bath, 2 car garage, condo-styled duplex, on two acres, $1100/mo. 330-221-4533 Newer 4/5 Bedroom Duplex, Flat screen TV, WD, Air, Sun deck, Close to Campus, Yard & Firepit, $1300$1500/mo. Website HTTP://web. me.com/allen291 Cell #216-536-3958 Email allen291@ me.com Townhouse condo in Brimfield: 3 Bedroom, 1.5 bath, eat-in kitchen, basement, attached garage. Minutes to KSU and NEOUCOM, $850. Townhouse apartments in Cuyahoga Falls: 2 bedroom, 1 bath, parking, basement, close to Rt. 8 and downtown, $625. Karen Donovan 330-633-5536 or 330-990-1661. KENT 3 Bedroom, Dishwasher, Clothesdryer, $900/month, Trash&Water Paid, 330-310-6592 Rooms Available for Fall 1 block from campus. 224 South Willow Street. $350/mo. Includes ALL utilities incl. cable and internet. Non-Smoking House. Chris Myers 330-678-6984 Now Leasing for FALL, Beautiful newly redecorated 2 Bedroom duplexes and townhouse apartments, 1 Block from KSU, $350/student. 330-6876122 SAVE $$$ Now leasing for Fall, Beautiful newly redecorated 3 bedroom duplex and 2 bedroom apartment $275/student 330-6876122

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Page 6 | Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Daily Kent Stater

SPORTS Sports editor: Cody Erbacher • cerbache@kent.edu

‘When I’m 80 years old, I’m still going to be shooting hoops’

It’s no surprise that the Kent State men’s and women’s basketball teams are at the top of their respective divisions. The men’s team is coming off a season where it finished first in the Mid-American Conference. The women’s team has finished second in the MAC East for the past two seasons. But neither team would be where they are at now if it wasn’t for some senior leadership. Here’s a look at two seniors leading their teams in the battle for the 2010-11 MidAmerican Conference Championship. — Cody Erbacher

After six conference games, the Kent State women’s basketball team is tied for the top spot in the Mid-American Conference East with Bowling Green, the defending MAC Champions. With the final stretch of the conference season approaching rapidly, sports editor Cody Erbacher sat down with senior guard Stephanie Gibson to talk about her time at Kent State and what it was like to beat the defending champions this season for the first time in the last 14 matches.

What’s the best part of Kent State basketball?

Any favorite chants?

Yes.

Whenever I hear “Go Stephie!” I know they love me.

since you’ve been at Kent State, especially Q:time since it was at home?

How was it beating Bowling Green for the first

What’s it like having a blocked shot nationally Q:televised? I kind of just laughed at it, but then I critiqued it. When I first saw it, I was like “Dang, he battered my stuff.”

If you had to pick a player that you base your Q:game on, who would it be?

What about the game-winning dunk that was Q:highlighted in the Top-10 plays?

Rajon Rondo, he’s a great point guard. I like him

The dunking one was one of the most exciting plays of my life. It was very intense and it was very clutch.

Really? A Celtics player?

I hate the Celtics, but Rondo, I do like. Only him, that’s it.

So he’s not too intimidating to you then?

arms ever get tired during practice from Q:allDotheyour shooting?

Q: Q:

With four years of experience on a collegiate basQ:ketball team, it’s obvious you’ve got skills. If you

You wouldn’t score.

I’m much taller. What about if we were playQ:ingButto 11?

Soccer. I love soccer. After basketball I can’t wait to get in a league and start playing. Always got to keep the competitiveness up.

Q:life?Is there ever going to be an end to sports in your Nope. When I’m 80 years old, I’m still going to be shooting hoops. No matter how close it is to the basket, I’m still going to be shooting hoops.

Has a professional career in basketball ever Q:crossed your mind?

Overseas, yea, it’s crossed my mind. But right now it’s not really in the picture, but who knows, you never know.

Do you ever see yourself coaching?

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY JESSICA YANESH AND PHIL BOTTA

Rod Sherman:

Stephanie Gibson: n

Height. – 5’6’’

Height. – 6’3’’

Position – Point guard

Class – 5-year Senior

Class – Senior

n Hometown

Hometown – North Canton, Ohio

lis, Ind.

Some of Rod’s tattoo’s

Gibson’s stat line Started in all 18 games this season.

3.6 assists per game.

6.8 points per game.

n 1.8

steals per game.

Career free throw percentage: .778 Career 3-point percentage : .312

– Indianapo-

His grandmother who passed, her name. A Pac-Man symbol because his grandmother used to call him Pac-Man because he ate all the food. A tattoo of his mother, the No. 1 lady in his life.

“The game lives in me.”

You’ve got a lot of tattoos; do any of them have Q:meaning behind them?

All of them have meaning. Every tattoo I get has meaning. When I was young, I went to church and I would just listen to the pastor and he always talked about how God’s children are royalty, and I thought that was very significant. So I got ‘God’s children are royalty.’

I read you’re into gospel music…

In high school I did gospel rap. And I got so into it that I joined a group, but since I’m still in school, I can’t contribute as much.

Your No. 32 is the opposite of Michael Jordan’s Q:infamous No. 23. Is that for respect, or another reason?

Respect; and when I was in high school, I couldn’t get that number. They didn’t have the number on the roster.

struggled with injuries during a lot of Q:yourYou’ve time here, so I’ve got to ask… how has your knee been feeling?

It’s been good. This year I’ve been having less knee problems than I’ve had in the past. I practice more. I haven’t sat out a lot of practices. I’ve sat out a few, but a lot less than last year.

Compared to past seasons, how different is it Q:competing for a MAC title for the last time as a Kent State athlete?

No.

Why?

It had to have something to do with my number.

It would be 11 to 0. No matter how tall or big you are, I can shoot from the outside.

What other sports do you play?

What’s his name?

Deuce Stephan Sherman.

and me were to play a one-on-one game, would I score?

You have a dog, right?

Yea, I have a pit bull. He’s not here anymore though, he had to go home since he’s getting too big. I got him last year.

It’s more the legs. We do a lot of running, and I’ve been playing a lot of minutes, so it’s more the legs.

Shopping. I love to shop. Whenever I’m angry or need to just get my mind off of things, I just go shopping. I like to buy everything.

You still watch it?

We have to represent for our school. This is what we are and what we’re here to do. But it’s comfortable to wear, especially on cold days like this.

He’s always tough on his point guards. Most of the time during the game he’s giving the evil eye to me.

are all the basketball players always wearing Q:theWhy Kent State sweats?

Practice is rough though, right?

OK. Fair enough. What else occupies your time outside of basketball?

How’d you find out you were on SportsCenter?

I watch it time-and-time here and there, on YouTube or something like that.

No, not really. To a lot of people he gives the stares. You know, the evil eye. But at the end of the day he’s a great coach, and I love and respect him.

After the game, I talked to Coach (Jaden) Uken and I was like, “you think I’ll make SportsCenter for that dunk?” And he said, “Maybe. Maybe not.” I mean, I was expecting it, but I wasn’t really expecting it. Then I got a call when I got home saying, “You made SportsCenter. You made SportsCenter!” I never thought in a million years that I’d be on SportsCenter.

I hear coach Lindsay is kind of a scary guy…

He’s great. He is a really good coach. Not too many people know this, but I’ve known him since seventh grade. The first time I ever talked to him, he came up to me at a shoot around and I was like ‘Who is this man?’

How many times have you been on it?

Twice — once for getting my shot blocked and once for dunking it.

It felt great beating BG. They’re always a big rival. They’re usually No. 1 in the MAC so it was really great to beat them, especially with it being my senior year.

The Kent State men’s basketball team, for the second-straight season, is in contention for the top spot in the Mid-American Conference East division. The Flashes are tied for the No. 1 spot with a 3-2 MAC record with Buffalo, Bowling Green and Miami. But, after spending five years in a Kent State uniform, this hunt for a MAC Championship will be the last one that senior guard Rodriquez Sherman can experience. Sports editor Cody Erbacher sat down with Sherman after practice to talk about his time playing basketball for Kent State and what the future holds for the dynamic scorer.

Do you watch yourself when you’re on Q:SportsCenter?

The fans. The old-timers are always sitting across. They’re always the best. They’re always cheering for us and nagging the refs.

‘I never thought in a million years that I’d be on SportsCenter’

Why not?

I feel like I’m ready to move on to the next chapter. Coaching is great. Maybe high school, back at home or something like that if it opened up.

Next up: Northern Illinois, Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. in the M.A.C. Center

Head coach Bob Lindsay on Stephanie Gibson:

Head coach Geno Ford on Rod Sherman:

“Stephanie is a multiple year starter for us at the point. She’s been an excellent leader for us. She has to run our team, and we rely a lot on what she does defensively. She’s been a vital part of the success we’ve had this year.”

“Rod has had a huge impact on our program. He’s endured some major injuries that a lot of athletes don’t come back from. He’s a great kid — the kind of kid that if you had a daughter you would want you daughter to marry Rod Sherman — plus he’s a very talented basketball player.”

It’s frustrating and stressful at times. But it’s also relieving that we’re back in first place. The thing is, we’ve got to stay in first place. I want to win another MAC Championship so badly. I get emotional when we lose and plus it’s my last year so it’s starting to get to me that my games here are really starting to shorten up. One of my goals this year is that when I leave Kent State, I leave on top.

Next up: Ball State, Thursday at 7:00 p.m. in Worthen Arena, Muncie, Ind.