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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016
Wrestling showcases depth as postseason approaches Mike Cardew / Akron Beacon Journal University of Akron president Scott Scarborough gives his report to the UA Faculty Senate during its meeting on Thursday, Feb. 4, 2016 in Akron, Ohio. The senate later in the meeting voted and affirmed a resolution of no confidence in Scarborough.
Akron Faculty Senate votes no confidence in President Scarborough Olivia Minnier, Angelo Angel Administration Reporter, Entertainment Reporter
The University of Akron Faculty Senate’s overwhelming vote of no confidence in President Scott Scarborough’s administration last week has now been a topic of serious discussion in the latest Board of Trustees meeting. The senate gave the 50-2 vote in a meeting last week after Scarborough spoke about plans for the year. Pamela Schulze, a faculty member at the University of Akron, said she hopes for a definite change moving forward. “I think that probably different faculty hope for different things, but I know quite a few faculty that wish Scarborough would resign,” Schulze said. Scarborough was named president of the University of Akron in July 2014 after Luis Proenza, Akron’s longest tenured president, decided to step down and return to teaching. Scarborough was previously the provost and executive vice president of Academic Affairs at the University of Toledo. At the beginning of his presidency, Scarborough had outlined plans to reduce the school’s debt and create a stronger brand for the university amongst declining enrollment.
SEE AKRON / PAGE 2
Kent Social Services offers shelter from cold Justin Niedenthal Social Services Reporter Once temperatures hit 10 degrees or below, Kent Social Services opens its doors for anyone who needs a place to sleep. “About the only other place to go is McDonald’s. This place is nice or you can go to Center of Hope in Ravenna, but they don’t usually let people sleep there,” said a woman staying at the Kent Social Services Center. She asked to remain anonymous. “Honestly, there is a huge shortage of housing available for the homeless—especially if you’re single,” she said. The service is run completely by volunteers. This winter, a rotation of three individuals make the service possible. “It’s a fun place to hang out, we have great conversations,” Maria Bur-Walter, a volunteer, said. “(We) play board games, watch movies. These people are great.” Kent Social Services provides hot meals to anyone hungry free of charge on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, with an early dinner on Thursday. “We are the only place in Kent open when it’s cold. So when the public library closes and people need a place to sleep they can come here,” said Margo Kerns, manager at Kent Social Services. jniedenthal@kent.edu
Nate Manley / The Kent Stater Redshirt freshman Casey Sparkman looks toward the clock during his match against Justin Oliver of Central Michigan in the M.A.C. Center on Sunday Feb. 14, 2016. Sparkman won 4-2 and Kent State beat the Chippewas, 18-17.
Dan Armelli Sports Reporter With the upcoming Mid-American Conference Tournament looming in March, the Kent State wrestling team is coming off arguably its most important contests of the year. Even with two of the current three NCAA qualifiers from last year sidelined Sunday due to injury, Kent State pulled off a secondplace finish in the Mid-American Conference regular season, capping off the season with a 7-1 conference record and 15-3 overall. The team closed its regular season schedule with wins on Sunday against MAC rival No. 20 Central Michigan and Edinboro. Last year's two NCAA qualifiers—fifthyear senior Ian Miller who's ranked third in the country in his 157 weight class and senior 133-pounder No. 8 Mack McGuire—were out with varying injuries and ailments. Fifth-year senior, 149-pounder, No. 19 Mike DePalma was the lone NCAA qualifier to participate in Sunday's matches. He lost in the Central Michigan dual, but bounced back with a 5-1 win against Edinboro's No. 10 Patricio Lugo. "Getting that first match out of the way and then having more time to recover for the second one was a good preparation for something like MACs and nationals," DePalma said. "I felt a lot better going into that second match, way better that the first one." Each win in the duals for Kent State was important after one-point and three-point victories, respectively. With Kent State wrestling 20 matches in the tri-meet, there were many subplots of the event that were important to Sunday’s results that could also impact the MAC Tournament. Redshirt freshman, 157-pounder Casey Sparkman, who had replaced Miller earlier in the season against Missouri with a win, did so again with an upset over Central
Michigan’s No. 11 Luke Smith. “I’m always trying to be ready to wrestle,” Sparkman said. “I expect that every once in a while I’m going to get thrown out there and my name’s going to get called, even if Ian and Mack are in. I just have to wrestle the same way every time.” To fill in for McGuire, head coach Jim Andrassy utilized both of his 125-pounders: fifth-year senior Del Vinas and sophomore Drew Dickson. Andrassy said he had heard Central Michigan might forfeit at 125 because of an injury. “As soon as they forfeited, we Nate Manley / The Kent Stater sent Dixon out to get the forfeit and Redshirt freshman Kyle Conel wrestles Jackson Lewis of we moved Del up,” Andrassy said. Central Michigan in the M.A.C. Center on Sunday Feb. 14. “I literally asked Del if he wanted to Conel won 6-3 and Kent State beat the Chippewas, 18-17. wrestle 133 or 125. I kind of gave him the option, being a fifth-year senior.” Two performances that shouldn’t be Vinas ended up losing that match to the Chippewas’ No. 26 Corey overlooked were those by fifth-year senior, Keener. Kent State bumped Dickson up to 165-pounder No. 29 Tyler Buckwalter and redshirt freshman, 197-pounder No. 15 Kyle 133 against Edinboro. “Dickson needs shoulder surgery,” Conel, who both went 2-0. Buckwalter beat Andrassy said. “He was scheduled for last two ranked opponents and Conel finished week. We canceled it as soon as Mack got hurt.” with a perfect dual record on the season. The other of Kent State’s six ranked Dickson ended up winning 5-2 with riding time, which tied it up for the last match wrestlers, fifth-year senior 184-pounder No. 29 Cole Baxter lost both of his matches by of the evening at 141 pounds. Redshirt freshman Anthony Tutolo took five points to ranked opponents, including the mat with one match on the day under Edinboro’s No. 5 Victor Avery. Sophomore 174-pounder Jairod James his belt. He lost his first match to Central Michigan’s No. 16 Zach Horan. A contro- showed the same promise he had in his versial takedown-to-reversal call in the first two career MAC duals. He limited the final minute of the third period that was damage against Central Michigan’s No. 9 reviewed and upheld led to a scramble and Michael Ottinger in a 1-0 loss. James and fifth-year senior Mike Vollant split time at takedown for Horan. Against Edinboro, Tutolo was able to 174 Sunday. Vollant lost in sudden victory hold off last-second takedown attempts to 4-2 against Edinboro. win 6-5 with riding time, giving the Flashes an 18-15 win.
SEE WRESTLING / PAGE 2
Life is Gouda at the Kent Cheesemonger Anne-Marie Colant Business and Neighborhoods Reporter Acorn Alley’s newest addition, Kent Cheesemonger, opened its doors in September 2015 and offers an experience like no other shop in downtown. The store offers a wide variety of cheese and wine as well as beer and cured meats. The store also hosts classes and special events about three times a month. Classes start at $25 a head and come with five cheeses and five wines. Owner Tim Sahr and his wife have always had a passion for cheese. About a year and a half ago, they became tired of having to travel far to find good cheese. “We wanted to offer a broad selection from around the world,” Sahr said. He also enjoys the diverse group of customers coming into his store. The Cheesemonger sees many foreign exchange students, as well as people from the community and students looking to enjoy wine and cheese pairings.
“We get every variant in here,” Sahr said. “It’s a total mix.” Christina Lusk works alongside Sahr and is a “cheese genius.” She worked at West Point Market for over nine years and became an expert in fine cheese before coming to the Kent Cheesemonger. She loves being in an environment where she can see the outside all day and how the people are down to earth. “It’s very relaxed here,” Lusk said. “I like how people come in and are receptive, they want to have a nice conversation.” Megan Tonkery, a senior fashion design major, enjoys going to the pairing classes. “My roommates and I went to (the) last class offered,” Tonkery said. “We learned so much and it was a great night out.” Sahr and Lusk describe it as the happening place to be and encourage anyone who hasn’t tried good cheese, to just take a chance and do it. acolant@kent.edu
Kent Cheesemonger shop located downtown on Monday, Feb. 15, 2016.
Clint Datchuk / The Kent Stater
Page 2 | Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Cryptic messages featured Stater in library’s new exhibit The Kent
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Kimberly Laferty Libraries Reporter The University Library opened a new exhibit to be viewed now through summer 2016 on floor 12 of the library, called The Code Makers vs. Code Breakers. Edith Serkownek, an associate professor at the University Libraries, joined with Kathleen Medicus, associate professor at the University Libraries and cataloger in the Special Collections and Archives, to curate the exhibit. They split the work of putting the exhibit together, and were inspired by the American Cryptogram Association, who donated some of the materials used. “(The American Cryptogram Association) started creating little cryptograms (messages or writings in code or cipher) in the 1930s, the same way that crossword puzzles were very popular, (with) this idea that it was a game and anyone could play,” Serkownek said. “And so it’s really great because they are still producing their newsletter and still create cryptograms.” When a person enters the exhibit, they can pick up a cipher wheel, which they can use to decode messages that are in the corners of some displays.
James Bracken, dean of University Libraries, said the department has a deep collection in cryptography. “It’s a fascinating subject that has been with us forever,” Bracken said. The exhibit shows codes that were created by military leaders, spies, monarchs and many more themes. There is even a display on crime called Forensic Cryptanalysis that includes codes by the Zodiac Killer and the serial killer Unabomber. “The Zodiac case is still actually an open murder case in the state of California from the 1960s,” Medicus said. “They never (discovered) the identity of the Zodiac Killer and he’s kind of opposite in his use of code. He sent messages to the newspaper kind of boasting, kind of like Jack the Ripper.” According to Medicus, an amateur decoding couple were able to decode the Zodiac Killer ’s messages in the newspaper. Another highlight of the exhibit includes a display with a theory that Shakespeare didn’t actually write his famous stories. The theory is that the stories were written by the English philosopher Sir Francis Bacon, and that he put secret messages within the stories. Serkownek said that though this
theory was kind of disproved, it is still popular today. Also in the exhibit is a display about Mata Hari, a belly dancer and a German spy during World War I. She used invisible ink in her codes and the ink, which she claimed to be make-up, was supposedly found in one of her rooms, according to Medicus. “They were looking for a spy whose code name was H21 and they were able to decipher radio messages or telegram messages and figure out that it was Mata Hari,” Medicus said. “She was 41 when she was executed by (a) firing squad because her messages got intercepted.” Some other exhibit highlights and displays include codes in wartime, codebreakers in fiction, cryptography as a pastime and many more. The exhibit is open Monday through Thursday from 1 to 5 p.m., or by appointment. Anyone who follows Kent State University Special Collections and Archives on Facebook can also get a chance to win a $5 FlashCash gift card by breaking a code given every Tuesday. They will then draw from their email from people with the correct answer and choose a winner. klaferty@kent.edu
CPAE building houses alumni outreach
Matt Poe mpoe3@kent.edu
Alexander Wadley / The Kent Stater Assistant Vice President Mindy Aleman of the Center for Gift and Estate Planning speaks about the New Gift Annuity Minimums at the first meeting held in the Center for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement.
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Caleigh Marten Administration Reporter The Center for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement (CPAE) houses 11 departments that work as a whole to grow private support for Kent State. State support for a university is a necessity and extremely important. However, one challenge that a university faces is private support, which is where the CPAE building comes into play. According to Albert Melfo, director of the Annual Giving department, the existence of a building with this purpose at the university underscores the importance of the relationships between alumni and their alma maters. The building was made possible through a private-public partnership between Kent State, GMS Development and the Portage County Port Authority, Melfo said. “Bringing all key areas of advancement together in one central, shared space creates synergies that just aren’t possible when staff are scattered across campus,” Melfo said. “The new center also provides us with the ability to host some events here for our various audiences, including alumni,
friends and donors. And it will serve as a central welcome center for alumni when they return to visit our amazing campus.” “This is the first time since the Institutional Advancement division was first formed that we’ve been able to bring together all of the staff from the various areas,” he said. Previously, the departments were spread all over campus, but with this new building located on the corner of South Lincoln Street they are able to work cohesively and efficiently. “Until the move, our (vice president) was located in the Executive Offices on the second floor of the (university) library – he’s here now, with his support staff,” Melfo said. “The offices of Advancement Services, Annual Giving, Prospect Research and the Kent State Foundation used to be housed on Fraternity Circle. Planned Giving and Corporate & Foundation Relations lived in ASB, and the Alumni Association resided in the white house in the center of campus, which was originally the home of former (Kent State) presidents.” According to Brian Thornton, director of Digital Strategy and Communication, aside from a collaborative work space, having a
AKRON
Akron Faculty Senate votes... In late 2015, the University of Akron Board of Trustees supported Scarborough’s decision to cut over 200 staff positions in non-core areas within the university, as stated in a press release. “We believe Dr. Scott Scarborough has appropriately and effectively addressed the issues presented to him when he assumed his position just over a year ago. He has presided over the development of a bold plan to take the University of Akron to new heights. He has made tough and unpopular decisions,” said Jonathan Pavloff, president of the University of Akron board of trustees in an official university statement from August. Decisions such as these have been unpopular with students at the university. Students and faculty have protested at Board of Trustee meetings multiple times throughout the school year. Schulze acknowledged the feelings of disdain at the school, but added that she could not provide specifics. “I think there are some students who are very upset with the administration, but I don’t know how widespread those feelings are,” she said. Casey Andrew, a former University of Akron student, transferred to Stark State College because of her issues with Akron’s administration. “I left because of the president and all of the controversial press he was getting about where he was choosing to spend money and how he was cutting so many things from the university,” Andrews said. “I couldn’t wrap my head around many of his new policies and got confused by them.” Andrews reverted from senior to junior status during her transfer, but still felt as though her decision was validated. “I saw an article released by the (Akron) Beacon Journal a few weeks ago saying that the board has no faith in the new president. That sealed the deal that I made the right choice in leaving as well.” Andrews said. At this time, no official actions have been made to remove Scarborough as president. The University of Akron has issued an official statement regarding the situation. “The University of Akron is always looking for ways to expand our services and offerings to help even more people reach their educational and life goals,” the statement said. “Until there is an actual proposal to be presented to the UA Board of Trustees and other interested parties, there’s nothing to share at this time.”
Kent State’s construction management program will be receiving a $50,000 donation from Brewer-Garrett to support the creation of two endowed scholarships. Brewer-Garrett pledged to donate $10,000 each year for five years. A $25,000 endowed scholarship will be created after three years, and after five years, a second one will be created. Lou Joseph, Brewer-Garrett’s CEO and president, and Kelly Tisdale, the company's energy services general manager, announced the gift to the program Monday in the Applied Engineering building. Tisdale has been the point person for Brewer-Garrett’s projects at Kent State. Brewer-Garrett is a Cleve-
land-based commercial energy services company. The company has worked on many buildings on campus, including the majority of the dorms to conserve energy and reduce utility costs. The company is also involved in the university's student chapter of the Mechanical Contractors’ Association of Cleveland. Over the past few years, Brewer-Garrett has hired four to five graduates as well as interns like senior construction management major Adam Horrocks, who has been working as an intern part-time with the company since April 2015. Horrocks said he accepted the internship after hearing all the positive things Brewer-Garrett does with energy conservation projects across Ohio. “Overall it has been a phenomenal experience so far,” Horrocks said. “I have learned
from some of the industry’s best and this internship has definitely broadened my knowledge of the mechanical side of construction.” The $50,000 endowed scholarship fund was created to support students in the construction management program, with a preference to students who are actively engaged in the construction management student organizations. This scholarship is one of the first of many the construction management program hopes to create for students in the major. “We just started a scholarship campaign for 10 endowed scholarships,” Joe Karpinski, the construction management program coordinator, said. “One scholarship will begin each time we hit the $25,000 mark.” Karpinski said the program is currently seeking out companies
Wrestling showcases depth...
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Chelsea Evans / The Kent Stater The small tour group consisting of Brewer-Garrett representatives, Kent State representatives, and three construction management students on Monday, Feb. 15, 2016.
that have hired interns or fulltime employees from the program, former graduates of the program or any other individuals who may want to contribute. Currently, Karpinski said the college already has one other endowed scholarship from Associated General Contrac-
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tors of Ohio that was donated three years ago. He said this scholarship was a donation of $25,000 and pays out $1,000 per year in scholarships because of accrued interest on the scholarship money. “All good programs around the country have endowed
scholarships available for their students,” Karpinski said. “We want to be there as well providing scholarships for our construction management students and help reduce their costs and ultimately school loan debt.” jkuczkow@kent.edu
EDITORIAL BOARD Editor: Emily Mills Managing Editor: Jimmy Miller Senior Editor: Ian Flickinger Opinion Editor: Skye McEowen Sports Editor: Stephen Means
Cheers&Jeers
DREW SHENEMAN’S VIEW
Cheers to ... University of Cali-
fornia, Davis for transitioning 120 single-stall bathrooms into gender-neutral facilities that will be ready by the end of the month. Jeers to ... A Florida woman broad-
casting her drunk drive home from the bars live via Periscope in October, now facing no jail time.
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it Richie Mulhall Columnist
WRESTLING
Construction management program receives funds for scholarships Jenna Kuczkowski College of Applied Engineering Reporter
Wednesday, February 17, 2016 | Page 3
The Kent Stater
From Page 1
dedicated place to bring the alumni back to is great because when they come to Kent State they will feel valuable. “We are such a collaborative team, which would lead to us having meetings all over the place and (having to do) simple stuff ... all over campus,” Thornton said. “And now that we are all here it kind of developed the synergies to allow us to collaborate more intensively.” The building itself has three floors. The first floor holds event space, storage and offices for the departments, as well as the student-staffed phone center. “Our Alumni Association will host things like homecoming events, luncheons, dinners, and Alumni Ambassador training with the use of these facilities,” Thornton said. “The offices on this floor mainly consist of the teams that are a part of fundraising support.” According to Misty Williamson, a senior radiologic technology major at the Salem campus and advancement operations manager, the phone center was previously located at 1061 Fraternity Circle and was bought out by a Kent State fraternity in December.
Katie Barnes-Evans kbarnes6@kent.edu (330) 672 0886 Lorie Bednar lbednar@kent.edu (330) 672 2572
From Page 1
The Flashes also used both of their heavyweights Sunday and both ended up having arguably the most exciting matches of the entire tri-meet. Redshirt freshman Devin Nye took his match against the Chippewas to sudden victory tied at one. Nye won the match 7-1 on a takedown and four-second near fall. Sophomore Stephen Suglio got a crucial pin against Edinboro’s No. 22 Billy Miller in the first period to give Kent State a 15-9 lead. Suglio was bumped up to heavyweight after Conel earned the starting 197 in Kent State’s wrestle-off at the beginning of the year. Suglio’s yearlong efforts to get comfortable in a new weight class culminated with a pin in a tie dual against a ranked opponent. “I wasn’t really looking at the score,” Suglio said “I just needed to go out there and perform like I know that I’m able to … I’ve felt like I’ve been right there with higher ranked guys. This is just affirmation that I belong here.” Kent State will have tough decisions to make at both at 174 and heavyweight for the MAC Tournament. Andrassy has said they like that they can rely on Vollant in any situation they put him in. James also sports an impressive resume in his MAC dual action. Both wrestlers have been used down the stretch, so it’s unclear who will represent 174 at the MAC Tournament. The same can be said at heavyweight. Both Nye and Suglio have had impactful wins, including the ones at Sunday’s tri-meet. Andrassy has said he feels like he has guys at both weights that he can put out there and be happy with. Eight of Kent State’s 11 wins Sunday came from its freshman or sophomore wrestlers. This has been part of the formula for success all year. “Between (Sparkman), Devin, Conel, Tutolo, Jairod James, (redshirt freshman 165-pounder Isaac Bast) and some of the younger guys we have, I think next year we’ll be a pretty good team,” Andrassy said. “We’re going to take our lumps, but I think we have a lot of really good young guys who are just kind of chomping at the bit to get in there.” Even though he raved about the future, Andrassy also said he’s proud of this current team. “I think it’s only the third or fourth time in my career we finished in the top-20,” Andrassy said. “If you would’ve asked me at the beginning of the year, I would’ve said, ‘There’s no way we’re this type of team.’” “I’m excited about the future but I’m also excited about the rest of this year as well.” The MAC Tournament is a two-day event that will run March 5-6 at Eastern Michigan.
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Scalia’s death further divides liberals and conservatives Matt Poe Columnist Most of our political issues today, sadly, revolve around the battle of Republicans vs. Democrats; the right and left battling for a position to gain the upper hand on one another. It’s also an election year, which further separates the two parties when it comes to playing nice (if that’s even possible at this point) in virtually any area of politics. That messy, sometimes childish contest between the two parties just picked up a full head of steam in the wake of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia’s death. Scalia, 79, was pronounced dead at Cibolo Creek Ranch this past weekend, where he was on a hunting trip in the remote area of Texas. Although it was declared the justice died of natural causes, that statement was made without seeing the body, which is legal in Texas. No autopsy was ordered either, which has led some to speculate foul play was involved. I’m not ready to jump on that conspiracy train but hey, dive right in if you’re feeling brave. For those unaware, Scalia was the face of the conservative vote on the Supreme Court. Appointed by Reagan in 1986, his voting record was that of the traditional conservative. Abortion? The Framers didn’t include it in the Constitution, so that’s a no-fly zone. Gay rights? Well, he once told the citizens of Colorado that they are “entitled to be hostile towards homosexuals.” A lot of his beliefs were those of yesteryear and anti-progressive, but it’s nevertheless what you would primarily suspect of the major conservative appointed 30 years ago when many of today’s social issues were still taboo. As odd as it is to say, Scalia’s death really isn’t about him. Regardless of your political views or ideologies, the man was an influential political figure and it’s somewhat a shame to see all the bashing from liberals on social media about his death, a final good riddance to a man many of them deemed out of touch with reality. There’s nothing wrong with disliking the man, but a little humility in the wake of his death would be refreshing. Instead, his death is really about who his replacement will be. Rather, it’s about who will appoint his replacement. This issue wouldn’t be as heavily scrutinized, but again it’s an election year, and every decision by the incumbent and the candidates is analyzed tenfold under the microscope of the media and the public. And I can tell you now, this situation is only going to get messier between the two parties. Don’t forget, it’s the president who appoints the Supreme Court Justices to serve life terms. It’s every president’s dream to appoint one or multiple justices in an attempt to have major cases decided by the Court potentially swung in their favor. In short, Republican candidates want to postpone the appointment of a new justice in the attempt to regain the White House in the election and appoint their own justice. Democrats will insist Obama appoint someone in due time. But neither side will cease fire because the mad lust to get a judge of their respective parties is too much for either side to blink first. Quite frankly, as Hillary Clinton mentioned, I don’t see how it’s logical to have a vacancy on the Court for almost a year’s time when the next president is due to take office, but Republicans will push hard for that very thing. Whether that’s right or not is up to you. Please brace yourselves because this is just getting started; we’re looking at the reanimation of Deflategate, a la the politics version. Who knew both parties could find more animosity and less moderation but alas, they’ve struck gold. Matt Poe is a columnist for the Kent Stater. Contact him at mpoe3@kent.edu.
OUR VIEW
South Dakota ‘bathroom bill’ discriminates against transgender students
The South Dakota state senate passed a bill Tuesday that would ban transgender students from using the school bathrooms and locker rooms of the genders they identify with. The bill passed the state senate earlier this month and heads to Gov. Dennis Daugaard’s desk in the next few days. If Daugaard signs the bill into law, it will be the first such bill in the nation. This kind of a bill, known as the “bathroom bill,” is detrimental to children who are coming to terms with who they are. A state government telling them they can’t use the bathrooms of the gender they identify with will cause embarrassment and confusion. Sen. Brock Greenfield, one of the senators who introduced the bill, said the “co-mingling” of students with different biological sexes is “inappropriate.” Children are together for at least seven hours a day, “co-mingling” in the classroom, in the cafeteria, on the playground and on the school bus. The restroom is just another area
of interaction, although it is much more private than any other area. Just because students with different biological sexes are using the same restrooms does not mean anything negative or dangerous will happen. Students go to the bathroom for a biological function, that’s all. The bill is tantamount to discrimination, as Title IX of the Education Act of 1972 bans discrimination based on sex in public schools. A story made the rounds on social media about a message in a Kent State bathroom, “A trans man used this bathroom and the world did not end.” The message raises a good point: Bathrooms are private spaces and people, especially impressionable children, should be able to use the school bathrooms they feel most comfortable in. Politicians should not be able to make these kinds of personal decisions for children. The above editorial is the consensus opinion of The Kent Stater editorial board, whose names are listed above.
Clean Power Plan meets some supreme skeptics St. Louis Post-Dispatch Guest Columnist The U.S. Supreme Court’s five conservative justices went out of their way to throw a roadblock in front of the Obama administration’s Clean Power Plan last week. In an unprecedented move, the majority bloc voted to halt new Environmental Protection Agency regulations on power plant emissions from going into effect until a lower court decides on a challenge to the rules. The court historically had deferred to the executive branch’s authority until rules went in effect. This time, the justices’ ruling suggests they can’t wait until the case arrives on their docket. They granted a stay requested by 29 state attorneys general and dozens of utilities and energy companies that see the Clean Power Plan as a threat. Whatever side loses in the lower court and appeals to the Supreme Court, it’s pretty clear which way the majority is leaning. The 29 attorneys general and the other plaintiffs are right: The Clean Power Plan does threaten the status quo. For coal companies, it could be an existential threat. This isn’t because there’s a “war on coal,” and it isn’t because the Obama administration hates private enterprise. It’s simply because coal-fired plants are responsible for nearly 25 percent of the carbon pumped into the atmosphere by the United States. And atmospheric carbon is warming the planet at a rate that could threaten life on earth by the end of the century. If this were a giant asteroid headed for
earth, as in a disaster movie, the threat would be immediate. There’d be no debate about sending Bruce Willis into action. The threat from climate change is real, but because it’s happening in slow motion, the sense of urgency dissipates. States that depend heavily on coal for energy generation, and states like Kentucky and West Virginia where coal mining is a vital industry, understandably are loath to change. But change must come. The Clean Power Plan doesn’t take full effect until 2030. It requires states to adapt, but at a pace that minimizes disruption. For example, Ameren Missouri, whose coal plants accounted for 77 percent of the electricity it generated in 2013, already has begun switching to renewable sources. It could offset the coal it continues to burn with credits for energy conservation programs. According to a Natural Resources Defense Council analysis, enough conservation could enable the utility to phase out its older and dirtier coal-burning plants while meeting its requirement to reduce carbon emissions. That would allow Ameren to avoid the expense of new natural-gas-fired generating plants, thus benefiting shareholders, ratepayers and the planet alike. The opponents of the Clean Power Plan complain that the EPA went too far into powers constitutionally reserved to the states. The court must decide whether states’ rights trump the future of the planet. In our book, the planet wins the argument.
These 2016 Cleveland Cavaliers are really starting to remind me of the 2010 Cleveland Cavaliers; and no, I’m not talking about former Cavalier Delonte West’s alleged affair with LeBron James’ mother, Gloria James. I’m talking about the fact that the Cavs just can’t seem to be happy with what they’ve got. During the 2009-2010 campaign – you know, the one in which we should have won a championship – the Cavs’ front office decided to deal beloved, longtime Cleveland center Zydrunas Ilgauskas as part of a three-team, six-player trade in exchange for Washington Wizards forward Antawn Jamison. At the time, a lot of people considered this a solid trade considering Jamison, a two-time all-star, could provide the Cavs with a spark heading into the season’s back nine. There was only one problem with this logic, though. The Cavs didn’t need a spark. When the Cavs traded away the fan-favorite Ilgauskas for the veteran Jamison, the team was 43-11 and riding an impressive 13-game winning streak. Cleveland was undoubtedly the best team in the league and tried to up the ante with a big trade just before the deadline. And what happened immediately following the trade? The Cavs slipped on a three-game losing skid as Jamison scored a meager two points in his highly heralded debut in Cleveland. Some trade. Sure, the Cavs were able to bounce back and finish the regular season with a 61-21 record and reclaim Ilgauskas after the Wizards bought out his contract (thus making him a free agent available for signing), but was the trade really worth the effort in the end? When the Cavs acquired Jamison and dropped Ilgauskas for that brief 30-day period, it altered the dynamic of the team. It threw off the chemistry general manager Danny Ferry and company worked so hard to cultivate during LeBron’s first tenure in Cleveland. Fast forward six years later, and the Cavs appear to be up to their old tricks again. This past weekend, trade rumors emerged stating the Knicks, Celtics and Cavs were discussing a trade centered around Kevin Love and Carmelo Anthony. While a Melo / Love deal generated excitement in Cleveland as many fans gushed over the idea of Melo and LeBron playing together, I scoffed at the idea, hoping the rumors were false. Although the Cavs are still figuring out more ways to get Love involved in the offense and make him factor more in the rotation, he’s still a valuable asset to have on the team. He’s averaging a double-double per game (15 points and 10 rebounds) as the Cavs’ third scoring option, and he’s just a better fit than Melo. LeBron and Melo are virtually the same player, so as enticing as the thought of two of the top draft picks from the elite class of 2012 playing together sounds, the Cavs really don’t need Melo. Besides, there wouldn’t be enough room for all the egos in the locker room. It’s already a tight squeeze as it is with LeBron, Love and Kyrie Irving. Amidst this swirl of trade noise surrounding the Cavs, LeBron refuted New York Daily News reporter Frank Isola’s “false” reports, but how can we know for sure? If the Cavs can fire David Blatt after an Eastern-Conference best 30-11 start, what’s to stop David Griffin, the Cavaliers’ general manager, from unloading some of the roster in continuance of his mass personnel overhaul? Now, the latest buzz is that the Cavs are open to trade talks involving Iman Shumpert. ESPN’s Marc Stein reported that Cleveland is exploring ways to improve its bench, which would include offering Shumpert in potential deals. The burning question, though, is why the Cavs would want to trade Shumpert, a key target of Cleveland last year who was instrumental in catapulting the Cavs to the 2015 NBA Finals. If the Cavs were to trade Shumpert, they would also lose a key defensive catalyst and indispensable hustle points. The only person I would even consider trading is Timofey Mozgov, and Cleveland would be limited in terms of what it could garner for him since his productivity has declined since the Finals. It’s true that Griffin made bold moves last season to get Shumpert, Mozgov and J.R. Smith, but that was during a time when the Cavs were desperate to make said moves. Although the Cavs might not be good enough to topple the likes of the San Antonio Spurs, Golden State Warriors or even the Oklahoma City Thunder in the west, they have a better shot with the players they have now than if they were to take advantage of an approaching trade deadline. Terry Pluto from the Plain Dealer said it best: “Here’s the problem -- the Cavs already have made several major deals in the last 20 months. A team can’t keep changing critical parts of its roster, especially a team with a 38-14 record. That’s the best in the Eastern Conference.” The current roster still has its flaws, but it might be the best we can do right now. Richard Mulhall is a sports columnist for The Kent Stater. Contact him at rmulhal1@kent.edu.
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The Kent Stater
Sports
Wednesday, February 17, 2016 | Page 5
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Basketball tops WMU in overtime Zac Sommer Sports Reporter After leading by as many as 12 points in the second half, the Kent State men’s basketball team (17-9, 8-5 Mid-American Conference) found themselves heading to overtime against Western Michigan University (10-16, 4-9 MAC) for the second time this season. Kent State made nine of ten free throws in overtime, giving the Flashes an 85-78 win over Western Michigan Tuesday night. “Really hard fought win and I’m really proud of the guys for finding a way to pull it out,” coach Rob Senderoff said. “When we lost the lead, they didn’t panic and made big plays.” Senior guard Galal Cancer scored a career-high 24 points, making eight of 13 from the field and shooting 60 percent from threepoint range. “I’m just shooting with confidence,” Cancer said. “They aren’t all going to go in, but that comes with getting extra shots and just being comfortable with the shots that I take. I felt good shooting today.”
Kent State scored 42 points in the first half without shooting a free throw. The team made 9 of 11 in the second half and 9 of 10 in overtime. Redshirt junior guard Kellon Thomas was perfect from the free throw line in overtime, making all four attempts, finishing with 15 points and five assists. “This game was really big for us,” Thomas said. “We lost a tough one to Eastern that we felt like we shouldn’t have lost. I think this is what we needed to get our confidence back up.” Redshirt junior guard Jimmy Hall tallied 15 points, six rebounds and three assists, with five of those 15 points coming in overtime. Kent State is home this weekend as they get set to take on the University of Akron (20-5, 9-3 MAC), the M.A.C. conference-leader, on Friday at 6 p.m. in the M.A.C. Center. “Each win in this league is tough and hard-fought,” Senderoff said. “We are happy we got this one ... and (now) we will start our Nathan Shively / The Kent Stater preparation for Friday’s game.” Redshirt junior forward Jimmy Hall throws down a dunk against zsommer@kent.edu
Western Michigan in the M.A.C. Center on Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2016. The Flashes beat Western Michigan University 85-78 in overtime.
Baseball starts season in Myrtle Beach Zach Harley Sports Reporter There may be snow on the ground in Kent, but the Flashes’ baseball team will be enjoying summer-like conditions this weekend as they kick off their 2016 campaign in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina by taking on the University of Virginia’s Cavaliers, the defending national champions. Kent State, a Mid-American Conference powerhouse that has won five of the last seven MAC championships, with its last victory coming in 2014, had an off year last season. The team missed out on a MAC Championship, finishing the regular season with a 31-22 record and going 18-9 in MAC play. Coach Jeff Duncan, starting his third year as the skipper for the Flashes, acknowledged that though last year was not up to standards, the team was still able to take some positives out of the season. “In light of last year, we did some things that were good (in spite) of adversity,” Duncan said. “But that makes us more prepared and focused and more hungry going into this year.” The adversity Duncan mentions goes back to a number of key players out because of injury last year, including current redshirt senior Alex Miklos, who said he’s good to go (for 2016), but his knee is never be going to be like it was prior to the injury. Miklos sat out the 2015 season after going down in 2014 with a knee injury that kept him out of tournament play that year. Duncan also points to their rotation as a big key to success this year. With the likes of junior Eric Lauer, senior Nick Jensen-Clagg and junior Andy Ravel leading the way on the mound for the Flashes, it’s easy to get excited. Lauer, who can top out around 97 mph and is already being looked at for the 2016 MLB Draft, posted a 1.98 ERA last season, racking up 103 strike-outs in the process. Then there’s Jensen-Clagg, who posted a 2.88 ERA in 2015 and
Women's basketball to take on Akron Eric Pitcher Sports Reporter It’s that time of the year again: Battle of the Wagon Wheel. The Flashes will take the short trip over to Akron to compete against the Zips on Wednesday in their first match-up of the year. Kent State is 5-17; and 2-10 in the MidAmerican Conference. The Flashes are coming off of their biggest win in five years as they upset Ball State University. In Kent State’s last four games, they have been giving up a league best 59.25 points per game. It hasn’t been a cakewalk, either, as the Flashes’ last four opponents have a combined record of 53-41. Akron is 7-3 at home and Kent State
hasn’t had any luck on the road this year as all five of their wins have been at home. The Flashes are going to have their hands full on the defensive end as Akron’s senior Anita Brown is averaging 21.6 points per game and shooting just a little over 43 percent from the field. Kent State’s top scorer is sophomore Jordan Korinek. Korinek is averaging six points less than Brown. In the last eight years Kent State has been 1-7 against Akron, with its last win coming at home back in 2012 when they defeated the Zips, 77-76. Tip-off for the upcoming game is 7 p.m. epitcher@kent.edu
of the question. With their self-proclaimed packmentality, the thirst is there for the Flashes this season. It’s a complete team, relying on one another and referring to each other as family. At practice, the energy and focus is clear. When asked about season goals, every player has repeated what Ravel preaches, “Operation Omaha.” Personal statistics or goals appear unimportant. As Simonetti put it, “the only statistic we’re going to worry about are (wins) and losses. Duncan says Virginia will be a great challenge, but said the team is prepared. zharley@kent.edu
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All real estate advertised herein 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.
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HOROSCOPE By Nancy Black Today’s Birthday (02/17/16) Take action for the common good this year. Lucrative opportunities (after 3/8) provide new travel and study destinations (after 3/23). Launch a two-year educational adventure after 9/9. Rising family assets (after 9/1) impact your personal finances (after 9/16). Collaborate for the future. To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.
Aries (March 21-April 19) Today is a 7. Stick close to home today and tomorrow, with a project. Gather plans and research potential solutions. Get everyone involved with personal incentive and reduce risk of mutiny. Let someone teach you a new trick.
BLISS
Taurus (April 20-May 20) Today is a 9. Get out of the house today and tomorrow. Study, practice and explore. Assume authority, especially over the next month with Venus in Aquarius. Keep long-term objectives in mind. An unexpected bonus appears.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Today is an 8. Teamwork wins over the next two days. Group efforts can expand rapidly. Put your love and talents into your work to rising demand this next month, with Venus in Aquarius. Play and get creative.
Gemini (May 21-June 20) Today is a 9. More income is possible today and tomorrow. Grab potential profits. Stick to your budget. It’s easier to venture forth now that Venus is in Aquarius. Study what you love. Explore and discover uncharted terrain.
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Today is an 8. Expect two days in the spotlight. A rise in status is possible. Keep your promises. The game gets fun over the next month, with Venus in Aquarius. Play and create. Give in to romance.
Cancer (June 21-July 22) Today is an 8. You’re more confident today and tomorrow. Personal matters need attention. Put love into your work for rising income over the next month, with Venus in Aquarius. Follow your heart and your passion is contagious. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Today is a 6. Slow down and contemplate over the next two days. Review the big picture. Rely on a supportive partner. Collaborative efforts thrive this next month, with Venus in Aquarius. Practice a common passion.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Today is a 7. The next two days are good for expanding your territory. Adventure and discovery call to you. Travel and explore. Still, your heart is at home over the next month, with Venus in Aquarius. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Today is an 8. Manage finances over the next few days. A lack of funds would threaten plans. Communication practices and creativity pay off over the next month, with Venus in Aquarius. Remain open to shifting circumstances.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Today is a 9. Partnership produces results over the next two days. Begin a potentially profitable month, with Venus in Aquarius. Negotiate terms to find a win-win situation. Collaborate to manage responsibilities while taking advantage of opportunities. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Today is an 8. Focus on work for the next two days. The pace is picking up. Upgrade your image this month, with Venus in your sign. Pamper yourself with personal attention. This restores and recharges you. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Today is a 6 -- There’s more time for love today and tomorrow. Share peaceful activities with your inner circle. Tranquil contemplation soothes over the next month, with Venus in Aquarius. Plan the road ahead. Rest and recharge.
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Alex Ledet / The Kent Stater Then-sophomore pitcher Andy Ravel pitches a ball against a Ball State University batter. The Flashes won 11-7 on April 12, 2015.
led the MAC in wins and strikeouts with eight and 108, respectively. Last season, Ravel put up a 3.13 ERA while going 6-2 in 13 starts and striking out 55 batters while only walking 16. Ravel was asked if he had any personal goals for the upcoming season and responded with one word: Omaha (home of the College World Series). The line-up understands the dominance this rotation can bring to the mound every game. “Pitchers are obviously going to go out and do their jobs,” said junior Connor Simonetti. With their “skud-train (lineup)” as Simonetti said, to this team, there’s no reason why Omaha is out
Classified ads can be placed by fax at (330) 672-4880, over the phone at (330) 672-2586 or by e-mail at ads@ksustudentmedia.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.
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CROSSWORD Logan Lutton / The Kent State Coach Danielle O’Banion cheers on her team as they take on Ball State in the M.A.C. Center on Feb. 13, 2016. The Flashes won, 59-50.
BREWSTER ROCKIT
Page 6 | Wednesday, February 17, 2016
The Kent Stater
58th annual Grammys garner student reactions Black Squirrel Improv Troupe makes its mark on campus Benjamin VanHoose Entertainment Reporter
The Grammys marked its 58th annual celebration of music Monday night, handing out golden gramophone trophies to Taylor Swift, Kendrick Lamar, Alabama Shakes, Chris Stapleton and plenty of other artists. Swift took home the top prize for her album “1989,” becoming the first female to win album of the year twice. Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” was named song of the year and Bruno Mars’ collaboration with Mark Ronson, “Uptown Funk” received record of the year. Meghan Trainor gave a tearfilled speech accepting best new artist. As far as award shows go, however, the actual prizes took a back seat to the countless performances and tributes to industry icons who died in the past year. David Bowie, Glenn Frey, Maurice White and B.B. King all got their due as bigname musicians performed mashups of their hits. Lady Gaga channeled Bowie in her honoring of the star who died in January. Her effects-heavy montage was well received and adds to Gaga’s already big 2016; she snagged a Golden Globe for her performance in “American Horror Story: Hotel,” was nominated for an Oscar for her song featured in the documentary “The Hunting Ground” and sang the national anthem at Super Bowl 50—all within two months. Grammy guests also took their chance at fashion stardom on the red carpet prior to the show, sporting flashy, stunt outfits and traditional award show attire. Junior fashion merchandising major Emily Davis said the best dressed attendees of the night were Ciara, Pharrell Williams and Selena Gomez—but had strong feelings against Swift’s ensemble. “I like something that stands out but is still classy,” Davis
said. “I wasn’t a fan of Taylor Swift’s outfit or hair.” Adele’s record-breaking album “25” may have missed the deadline for qualification in this year’s awards, but she still made an appearance to sing “All I Ask” amidst some technical difficulties. “I was surprised; Adele’s usually so amazing,” Davis said. “But once I heard it was due to technical problems, it made sense.” Rihanna cancelled her performance after doctors advised her to rest her vocal chords as she recovers from bronchitis— a wise decision as she prepares for her impending “ANTI World Tour.” Swift opened the ceremony with her single “Out of the Woods,” and Pitbull closed the night with a finale that included Robin Thicke and a dancing Sofia Vergara. Stevie Wonder used his moment at the microphone as a presenter/performer to speak up for those with disabilities. The blind singer read a winner’s name inside an envelope using Braille and stressed the importance of accessibility for every person. The show itself wasn’t the only trending topic on social media during the broadcast. Gwen Stefani stole a commercial break with a live music video routine of her new single “Make Me Like You.” Presented by Target, the routine had the singer wardrobe-changing through different sets while dancing with a troupe of extras. Broadway box office hit “Hamilton” earned Grammy love too. The cast performed the opening number of the hip-hop history lesson show and won best musical theater album. “The ‘Hamilton’ performance was even more stunning than I expected,” said senior theatre studies major Kaitlyn Regan. “The soundtrack is amazing, so it was nice to see them recognized.” The three-and-a-half hour broadcast, hosted by LL Cool
Angelo Angel Entertainment Reporter
separating into drama, comedy, horror or other genres. “The Grammys’ categories themselves are more diverse— not just the people being considered,” Regan said. Rapper Common and president of the Recording Academy, Neil Portnow, took a moment during the show to urge consumers to pay for their music rather than streaming or illegally downloading. They thanked fans who attend concerts, buy tangible copies or pay for subscription services, making it so they can afford to continue to produce music. “I see both sides, but I think the customer needs convenience and affordability,” freshman advertising major Gregory Kovacs said. “At the very least you can use a streaming service like Spotify, though.”
At first glance, Zachery Immel could be like any student at Kent State, but when he isn’t studying for his psychology classes, he’s busy directing the Black Squirrel Improv Troupe. The Black Squirrel Improv Troupe was founded back in 2007. Immel said the improv group consists of individuals from all walks of life, whether they’re seniors completing their last semesters, or freshmen who are eager to prove themselves. “I found out about the group when I was a freshmen starting out my (first) semester,” Immel said. “I just wanted to get involved and I found a place within Black Squirrel Improv where I felt comfortable.” Immel explained that when he first joined the group, there were around seven or eight members. At one point, the group only had four members. As time progressed, more joined. The troupe acts on completely random suggestions and works to accommodate each scenario. “Basically, we have two acts per show,” Immel said. “The first act consists of a warm up game and then some short-form games which means we have to follow a structure, like whatever the audience member suggest for example.” The second act consists of a couple of short games followed by a ‘long game’ which means the actors create their own scenarios and go along with the plot for as long as they can. Vice President Dana Bauman, a senior fashion merchandising major, said the group accepts anyone regardless of major or class standing. Bauman emphasizes that the group acts like a tightknit family, playing off each others strengths and serves as an outlet to release stress. “Our practices have become an outlet for all the stress I’m experiencing, and all the members have become a second family to me,” Bauman said. “If I’m having the worst day imaginable, I know that the second I enter that practice room I can leave all my cares at the door and even just for two hours twice a week, everything will be fine.” Another member of the troupe, Katharine Rarick, a senior special education major, joined the group in the fall of 2013 after transferring to Kent. “Being a ‘theatre kid’ all throughout high school I knew I wanted to find a group on campus that would satisfy my theatre kids needs,” Rarick said. The Black Squirrel Improv Troupe has its first show of the year on Feb. 19 at the Kiva Center.
bvanhoos@kent.edu
aangel3@kent.edu
Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times / TNS Taylor Swift wins Album of the Year at the 58th Annual Grammy Awards on Monday, Feb. 15, 2016, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
J, aired live on CBS to an estimated 16.1 million viewers. Though those numbers are slightly under last year ’s ratings, the network that just had the Super Bowl two weeks ago has little to sweat. The Grammys are the second-most watched award show just behind the Oscars, its film equivalent. The Oscars, however, are under fire for its lack of diversity among nominees— an issue Grammy voters don’t seem to have. “There are a lot of different genres that include a lot of different people,” Davis said. “With music you’re not really looking at the person, just their style of music, so it can be anybody.” Some others feel the Grammys are designed better, with various subcategories to showcase more artists. The Oscars cover all of movies without