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The Features Edition
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2016
USG spends student fees on performers Matt Poe Senior Reporter
The Stater’s Thursday guide to arts, entertainment and student life.
The man behind the Flash
Kent State charged students about $360,000 in student activity fees for bringing various artists and performers to campus for the 2016-2017 academic year. Each student paid a $205 activity fee for the academic year, according to Kent State’s official and approved list of university fees. For Thursday’s Kesha and PartyNextDoor concert, the university agreed to pay the artists a guaranteed compensation of $100,000 and $75,000 to perform, respectively. There are 4,500 tickets available for sale and ticket prices, ranging from $35 to $45 for students and the general public. However, even for students who don’t attend, a portion of their student activity fee still goes toward bringing the artist to campus.
SEE SPENDING / PAGE A4
Kent State professor pleads guilty to OVI Clint Datchuk / The Kent Stater
Flash, the official mascot of Kent State, poses for a portrait on Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2016, at the M.A.C. Center.
Erin Zaranec Entertainment Editor
I
n 2011, T.M. rode along with the Kent State football team to a game at Kansas State University when he asked a simple question to a staff member of the school's athletic department. “Hey, are you guys still looking for someone to be Flash?” Flash, the life-sized body suit of Kent State’s Golden Flash mascot, can be seen at nearly every sporting event, hyping up the crowd and cheering the university's team to victory.
T.M., then completing his undergraduate degree as a commuter student from Kent State’s Stark Campus, quickly filled the gig when he received confirmation that the athletic department needed students willing to suit up as the school’s mascot. Now, five years later, T.M. is in his first year of graduate school at Kent State, and is known as the ‘veteran Flash’ in the athletic department. While T.M. is proud of his role as a campus mascot, there is one strict requirement to the job: his identity must remain anonymous. “It helps keep the magic behind
the mascot,” said Matthew Payton II, a senior integrative studies major who works as the assistant director of marketing in the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. “Flash has his own persona and that’s ... (one way) to keep Flash as a person versus just a furry suit that someone gets into.” Security is so tight on Flash’s identity that The Kent Stater was not allowed to photograph T.M. as Fla While Flash may be most associated with his role of being a hype man at sporting events, he serves at a variety of on — and off — campus events, including welcome events, orienta-
tions, festivals and parades. Requests for Flash can be made through kentstatesports.com, with the cost of an appearance from Flash ranging from $50 to $100. While T.M. may be a student, he’s also a full-time Flash, working the job year-round. T.M. has been suited up and walking nearly four miles as Flash in Kent State’s July 4 parade, works sporting events, graduations and events at regional campuses. T.M. has even made an appearance as Flash at a children’s birthday party in Kent.
SEE FLASH / PAGE A2
USG markets Kesha, PartyNextDoor concert with new techniques Lauren Rathmell Features Correspondent Kent State's Undergraduate Student Government will host a Homecoming Week concert with pop artist Kesha and hip-hop artist PartyNextDoor on Thursday. While the concert happens to fall during the week of homecoming celebrations — a first for the university —Cliff Glowacki, a senior theatre studies major and director of programming for USG, said the timing just worked out for the artists and Kent State. “I think it's a great way to draw Kent State alumni and ... students together to participate in the events this week,” Glowacki said. “As for starting a Homecoming concert tradition ... only time will tell.” In addition to selling tickets — which went on sale in August for students, and will be available until doors open for the event—USG started a contest via Twitter to give away tickets to every 50th retweet until they reach 500 retweets. “We’re always looking for new ways to market our concerts to the public,” Glowacki said. “A social media giveaway worked well this time.” One of the winners was junior fashion merchan-
dising major Adam Forrester. “I was stoked when I woke up to the free ticket after just retweeting a tweet,” Forrester said. “I'm looking forward to see what Kesha is going to bring to the table and ready to get emotional with PND.” USG also hosted a raffle on Risman Plaza during the Black Squirrel Festival earlier this month to give away tickets. Kesha has made headlines recently with her ongoing legal battle with music producer Dr. Luke. She’s known for hits like “Tik Tok” and “Die Young.” The singer uploaded a 15-second personalized video to her Twitter page to get students pumped up about her visit. “I better see you guys there; it’s going to be super fun. I love you, bye,” she said. PND, a Toronto-based rapper known for his collaborations with musical artists Drake, Big Sean and Jeremih, and his single “Not Nice” just released his album "PartyNextDoor 3" in August. Rapper Bas is also slated to open for Kesha and PND. Student tickets start at $30, and general public tickets are on sale for $45. Doors open at 6 p.m. The show is set to start at 7 p.m. in the M.A.C. Center.
Photo courtesy of Kesha Kesha will perform at Kent State for a concert during this lrathmel@kent.edu year’s Homecoming Week.
The Weekend Sept. 29 Oct. 1
Hale Farm and Village Harvest Festival Experience the Northeast Ohio autumn tradition of corn mazes, wagon rides, pumpkin patches and more seasonal activities. The two-weekend event in the Cuyahoga Valley begins at 10 a.m.
Sept. 30
Kesha, PartyNextDoor Concert
Black Squirrel Improv Troupe Show
Revive your high school pop playlist at the M.A.C. Center when Kesha takes over, and get a taste of rising R&B star PartyNextDoor’s hits. The live performances begin at 7 p.m. with opener Bas.
Share in some laughs at the student improv group’s first performance of the semester. The 7 p.m. event is free and worth 300 FlashPerks for students.
Oct. 1
Oct. 1
Kanye West: The Saint Pablo Tour
Homecoming
Witness the controversial rapper live as he brings his music to Cleveland’s Quicken Loans Arena at 8 p.m.
Enjoy the Homecoming festivities before it’s too late. Between the parade, various open houses, a comedy show and other events, the big Akron Wagon Wheel game isn’t the only way to celebrate being a Flash.
Sergey Anokhin
Photo courtesy of Kent State University
Angelo Angel Senior Reporter Sergey Anokhin, a Kent State entrepreneurship professor was released from the Lorain Correctional Institution on Sept. 27 after serving 30 days in prison, authorities said. Anokhin was involved in a criminal court case, where he pleaded guilty to aggravated vehicular assault, a third-degree felony, and operating under the influence, a firstdegree misdemeanor. Michelle Bialek and Carol McNamara, both residents of Stow, are suing him separately in civil court. "We only recently found out about this case, so we are just beginning to look into it," said Eric Mansfield, executive director of media relations at Kent State. On Oct. 12, 2015, Anokhin was operating his vehicle when he negligently failed to yield at a stop sign on Bratton Road while heading northbound in the southbound lane of Stow Road, according to documents provided by the Summit County Court of Common Pleas. Anokhin’s vehicle collided headon with the vehicle of Bialek. McNamara was the passenger in Bialek’s vehicle. McNamara sustained life-threatening injuries in the crash and was admitted to the Akron City Hospital. Bialek suffered bodily injuries, as well as emotional distress. At one point, emergency personnel told Bialek her mother probably wouldn’t survive, according to court documents. After being tested, Anokhin’s blood alcohol content level registered at .164, over double the legal limit of .08, court documents reported. Prosecutors charged Anokhin with aggravated vehicular assault and operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and drugs under state law. Though he initially pleaded not guilty to the charges, Anokhin reversed his plea before the Summit County Court of Pleas on Aug. 4. The court sentenced him to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. Anokhin was sentenced to 11 months in the Lorain Correctional Institution, according to James Pollack, Summit County Prosecutor's Office spokesman. Anokhin was ordered to random alcohol and drug testing, as well as participation in a substance abuse treatment program. The court ordered Anokhin’s driver’s license be suspended for a mandatory and definite period of five years. Anokhin also must have a restricted license plate and an interlocking device installed on his vehicle.
SEE OVI / PAGE A2
Page A2 | Thursday, September 29, 2016 From Page A1
FLASH The man behind the Flash Out of five years of being Flash, one memory stands out in T.M.’s career as a mascot. “It was the game that we clinched the MAC East in 2012. All we had to do was beat Bowling Green (State University) to get to the MAC Championship against Northeastern Illinois (University), and winning that game, being there for that, was amazing. Following that, you had the MAC Championship and the bowl game, which I got to go to,” T.M. said. “That was the best game, the best memory ever.” While being Flash has it’s perks, it’s not always an easy job. To be Flash, T.M. said students have to pay attention to their health and nutrition. During this year’s first home football game, T.M. was suited up for eight consecutive hours due to rain delays and multiple overtimes. “It can get rough. I easily drink four one-liter bottles of water and I eat protein bars,” T.M. said. The athletic department is currently looking for more students to fill the role of Flash, which is a paid student employment opportunity. Any student 5’7” or taller is eligible to apply — but representing Kent State takes more than just a basic job interview. T.M. said interested students will meet Payton and the marketing team, and run through a variety of Flash scenarios outside of the suit. Once the
Josh Cribbs to reign as parade Grand Marshal Rachel Duthie Features Correspondent
This is Josh Cribbs' first homecoming. Despite the Kent State alum and three-time NFL Pro Bowler playing in Homecoming football games throughout his high school and college career, Cribbs has never felt like he has had a 'real' Homecoming experience. He had always been too focused on his sport. So when the athlete was announced as this year's Homecoming Parade Grand Marshal, he could barely contain his excitement. "I am extremely honored," Cribbs said. "Kent State is where I started my life. I met my wife here, started my family here, I played football here — which gave me the chance to play in the NFL — and I earned my (bachelor's) degree in communications from Kent State. This place is a very important part of my life, and I can't wait to be in the parade." Cribbs will serve as the 35th alum of Kent State's long-held tradition of selecting Homecoming Parade Grand Marshals to serve as the centerpiece figure of the Homecoming weekend. The tradition began when alum and former Cleveland Browns wide receiver Paul Warfield and his wife, Beverly, were named the university's very first grand marshals in 1981. The ceremonial title was made to be given to an alumnus or alumna who students and faculty alike would want to recognize and lead the homecoming parade. "The title goes to one who exemplifies superior qualities of leadership and a strong dedication to Kent State University and the community," said Joy Wesoloski, assistant director of alumni relations. "We have had local alumni like Charlie Thomas, the owner of Ray's Place in Kent, to this year's Grand Marshal, Josh Cribbs, a former Cleveland Browns player." The process of selecting the grand marshal starts with the Homecoming Steering Committee. Comprised of Kent State staff from all university departments, members develop a list of Kent State alumni they would like to serve in this role and then, after organizing scheduling and availability, narrow down the title to one or two alum. Choosing a grand marshal is "neither hard or easy, but a lot of fun," said Laura Andrews, assistant director of marketing relations for the Kent State Alumni Association. "The process can take up to half a year to determine viable candidates." As for choosing Cribbs, the choice was clear. "(Cribbs) is a superior leader and advocate for both Kent State University and the community," Wesoloski said. "He has made highly visible contributions that have had a lasting impact." One of Cribbs' most notable accomplishments was his induction into the the Kent State Varsity "K" Athletics Hall of Fame in 2011 for his athletic success and leadership. He serves as the all-time total offense leader in school history with 10,839 yards and holds records in rushing touchdowns, touchdown scores, single-season completions and single-season completion percentage, according to a press release by the university. Cribbs was drafted as a free agent for the Cleveland Browns in 2005. "Playing at Kent State were the best four years of my life," Cribs said. "Some of my best memories playing football came right here at Kent State. Playing in the Wagon Wheel each year with (The University of) Akron will always stand out. We had some great battles in those games." After his eight-year stint with the Browns, Cribbs started an elite youth flag football league to raise awareness of concussions in contact sports. The idea of it is to teach children the fundamentals of the sport without the hitting often accompanied with football. "He is an amazing advocate for the school and alumni association, a positive role model, and he is continually involved in the community," Andrews said. "He is a great leader, tenacious and generous." Cribbs will be attending the parade on Saturday, followed by a meet-and-greet at the new Center for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement. He will also be a part of the coin toss during the Battle of the Wagon Wheel game against Akron later in the afternoon. The Homecoming parade begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday. rduthie@kentedu
The Kent Stater marketing department has narrowed the selection to the final four or five students, trial runs of Flash begin. “We’ll throw someone in the suit and send them down to the Student Center with the directive of ‘ok, go and have fun,’ and really just see what they do," T.M. said. "We need to see if they can stay in character, if they can live up to the hype of it." Trial runs help ensure that students really have what it takes to not only suit up, but take on the persona of Flash. ”You have to be comfortable with yourself and getting outside of your own skin a bit. If you can’t be goofy or weird and be okay with it, then it’s not going to work,” T.M. said. The role of Flash isn’t one to take lightly, though. “When you think of the university, Flash is probably in the top five things that come to your mind. The minute (Flash) leaves the M.A.C. Center to go to an event, the amount of people who stop you to take pictures, the amount of people who stop you to give you a high five — it’s almost overwhelming,” Payton said. After five years, T.M. is still just as passionate about the job as he was the first time he took on the title of Flash. “(I do it for) the game day atmosphere, the fans ... when you see a kid who is just so excited to see you and all they do is smile,” T.M. said. “I know it’s not about me, it’s about Flash, but still — it’s just so cool.”
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Clint Datchuk / The Kent Stater Flash, the official mascot of Kent State, sits in the M.A.C. Center on ezaranec@kent.edu Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2016.
Kent State celebrates local authors with book festival Keely Kennedy Student Life Reporter
The Kent State bookstore will celebrate local authors, including Kent State faculty, staff, alumni and the Kent State University Press on Sept. 30. Authors will be available from 3 to 7 p.m. to meet patrons and sign books. There will be 16 authors attending, with each of their books available for purchase. One featured work is "The Baseball Stadium Insider," written by Kent State senior communication studies major Matt Lupica. "The Baseball Stadium Insider" is "a comprehensive dissection of all 30 (current) ballparks, the legendary players, and the memorable moments," Lupica said. It also features more than 300 quotes from players, broadcasters and managers. “As always with book signings, I’m looking forward to not only meeting with people who share the
same passion as I do for the game of baseball," Lupica said, "but also hearing their stories of memorable times spent with loved ones at the ballpark." While this is Lupica’s first year at the event, he has worked in conjunction with the bookstore in past events. Another featured work is “Exiled in America: Life on the Margins in a Residential Motel” written by Christopher Dum, an assistant professor of sociology. The piece chronicles the year Dum spent renting a room in a residential motel that had a reputation for housing marginalized populations, such as sex offenders, the mentally ill, parolees and those on welfare. "Exiled in America" paints a portrait of a vibrant community whose members forged identities in response to overwhelming stigma and created meaningful lives despite crushing economic instability. “I am incredibly excited to be a part of this event," Dum said. "I love Kent State and am excited to contrib-
ute to the culture of writing at the university." Other books set focus on memorable spots that people return back to in Kent, like Ray’s Place. Ray’s Place is known for being a gathering spot for friend and family reunions. The book “Meet Me at Ray’s,” written by Patrick O’Connor, associate professor of teaching, learning and curriculum studies, features 200 stories submitted by Kent State alums to depict what Ray’s Place means to them. “Since Ray’s is so closely associated with Kent, Kent State University, and Kent State University alumni, it makes sense for me to attend a book signing during Homecoming," O'Connor said. "We also participated last year." Other books to be displayed are: "You Got This: A Mantra Coloring Book," "Ohio’s Craft Beers," "The Best of One Tank Trips with Neil Lurcher" and "The Great Forgetting: A Novel." kkenne25@kent.edu
Spirit Days welcome students back Hayley Dillow Regionals, Commuters and Student Affairs Reporter Kent State's School of Communication Studies and the School of Visual Communication Design hosted Spirit Days on Tuesday and Wednesday to welcome students back to the fall semester. “We are hosting this event really just to welcome our students back to the fall semester,"said Lindsay Kuntzman, marketing and public relations communications specialist.
Jimmy Miller jmill231@kent.edu
"It is really also an opportunity for exploratory students to learn more about what our programs are about." Larrie King, assistant professor of VCD, said the event was a great opportunity for students of these schools to interact and get to know each other’s programs. Student organizations were also at the events, including Glyphix, Intercultural Communications Society and Kent Communication Society. These organizations offered students from these schools a chance to get more involved.
“It’s going great. I’ve spoken to a lot of students, (and) I’ve seen a lot of students at the (communication's) studies table. … It’s been a great day,” King said. This is the second year for Spirit Days with VCD and Communication studies. More than 100 people stopped by Tuesday afternoon. Students who attended the event also took part in giveaways, received more information on the programs, and got a free lunch of a hot dog and chips. hdillow@kent.edu
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Former Kent State president dies at 96 Alex Delaney-Gesing Senior Reporter
Austin Mariasey / The Kent Stater Senior communication studies major Grace-Ann Agyepong chooses a bag of chips from the section presented at the Communications and VCD Spirit Day festivities on Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2016. From Page A1
OVI Kent State professor pleads... Anokhin then requested a hearing within the court for a judicial release on Sept. 15, which gives a sentencing judge the ability to grant early release without serving the remainder of their prison time to a defendant if they meet a certain criteria. On Sept. 27, Judge Todd McKenney granted Anokhin judicial release under specific circumstances. Anokhin is now serving parole, according to
Pollack. “Under Ohio law, when it comes to this specific charge and this specific sentence, a defendant must serve, I believe, a minimum of 30 days in prison,” Pollack said. Anokhin's faculty webpage on the Kent State website is currently inaccessible. Prior to his arrest, he was scheduled to teach during the fall and spring semesters. "We don't comment on personnel matters, but again, we are just beginning to look into the facts of this case," Mansfield said. aangel3@kent.edu
Photo courtesy of Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Correction
Kent State’s eighth president, Brage Golding, passed away at his home in California on Aug. 24. “On behalf of the Kent State University worldwide community, I express sympathy to the family and friends of President Emeritus Golding,” President Beverly Warren said in a Sept. 27 press release. “Our university owes a debt of gratitude for his leadership and dedication to our core mission of graduating students to lead productive lives.” As university president from 1977 until 1982, Golding established the Kent State University Museum, as well as the now nationallyrecognized Fashion School. Golding received a Bachelor of Arts and doctorate in chemical engineering, and served in the military during World War II. A namesake for Golding lives on through a scholarship given to fashion students each year. adelane3@kent.edu
Thursday, September 29, 2016 | Page A3
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THE OPINION PAGE IS AN OUTLET FOR OUR COMMUNITY’S VARIED OPINIONS.
DREW SHENEMAN’S VIEW
On Panelists discuss radicalization and nationalism in current political climate India Said Diversity Reporter Kent State’s School of Communication Studies and the Center for International and Intercultural Education hosted a Global Issues Forum Wednesday night in the Student Center, discussing “Radicalization & Nationalism the Current Political Climate.” CCI invited two critically acclaimed journalist to carry the discussion: award-winning author Christopher de Bellaigue and former foreign correspondent of the Chicago Tribune Tom Hundley. isaid@kent.edu
Cheers&Jeers Cheers to ... Ohio State Highway Patrol Sgt. David Robison, who drove a man he pulled over 100 miles to Detroit despite an outstanding warrant. The man lost his sister that morning and wanted to go meet his family. Jeers to ... Pepe the Frog. The popular meme has been declared a “hate symbol” by the Anti-Defamation League.
Count on USG for top-notch entertainment Israel Galarza III Columnist Stitching together a list of just a few of the entertainers who have graced the grounds of Kent State in the past several years results in the following: Wiz Khalifa, Jeremih, Future, Kevin Hart, Rae Sremmurd, Kesha, PartyNextDoor, Ab-Soul, Kyle and Chance the Rapper. One thing is certain: it’s a starstudded collection of marquee performers. With that being said, it’s time to give credit where credit is due and give Undergraduate Student Government praise for years of successful efforts. It almost seems that our university continues to attract increasingly more popular artists as time passes. Artists like Ab-Soul and Kyle may not garner the attention of the average music fan, but each has proven to be a strong lyricist in the new wave of rap. Rap fans will tell you Ab-Soul of the Compton-based Top Dawg Entertainment music collective is a lyrical monster that can go toe-totoe with the best of them. Kyle, or “SuperDuperKyle,” as he is known by his fans, opts for more of a “Fresh Prince of Bel Air” style with high energy bars and colorful themes to boot. Up-and-coming artists like the duo of Rae Sremmurd and solo artist Chance the Rapper are newer faces, but they’ve wasted little time in capturing the attention of the casual music fan. With a combination of mixtape and radio hits from each, the two have skyrocketed onto the mainstream rap scene. The aforementioned artists are impressive, but they don’t reach the list of top-tier artists that Kent State has had. Each of the aforementioned talents are among the most established names in the entertainment industry and their fan bases spread far and wide. Performances by Future and Wiz Khalifa were accompanied by high-energy settings and an electricity that is unmatched. It’s incredible to see such artists in their prime visit Kent State and put on low-cost, highly-entertaining concerts for students. We also can’t forget Kevin Hart’s hilarious stand-up special that he performed for students in 2014, either. It’s remarkable that USG can pull such strings in order to entertain the students of Kent State; Hart is a major movie star who has worked alongside legends like Ice Cube, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and funnyman Will Ferrell. The USG deserves a collective, campus-wide round of applause for their efforts and success in recruiting major talent to Kent State. It is a testament to their abilities as an organization and their consistency shows that those in charge are extremely skilled in their individual positions. This leads us to the live performances set to take place on Thursday, brought to us again by USG: PartyNextDoor and Kesha will be headlining the M.A.C. Center for their much anticipated concert. With names like these, it’s safe to state that USG has continued its reign of success in Fall 2016. PartyNextDoor is set to go on tour with Jeremih in November, and his Kent State performance will serve as a warm-up for the R&B standout before he hits the road. Kesha is also a huge star in her own right. For anyone who has been following her recently, she has opted for more of a psychedelic rock sound since returning from her controversial hiatus. Kesha has not released new music since 2013. She has been involved in an ongoing lawsuit against producer Dr. Luke, but has been performing her old hits with her new band, The Creepies. Regardless of Kesha’s new sound, it is sure to be a great show, one that would not be possible without USG. They deserve the recognition and admiration from a campus that largely benefits from the presence of such top-shelf performers. Thank you, USG. I can count on you for topnotch entertainment. igalarza@kent.edu
Why pay off debt when you can sue? Browns must sign Los Angeles Times Guest Columnist In the wake of the collapse of the Corinthian Colleges and questions about other for-profit career colleges, the Department of Education has drafted broad new rules for when people can get out of repaying federal loans. These proposed changes to what’s called the “borrower defense rule” would let people petition for loan forgiveness or even sue their school. The problem is that the proposed rules, which will be finalized by Nov. 1, are so vague they may invite abuse. For example, student borrowers could apply to discharge their loans if the college made statements that were “misleading under the circumstances.” What does that mean exactly? Department of Education employees and courts will get to decide on a case-by-case basis, apparently. More troublesome is that these poorly devised standards probably would spur new lawsuits. Indeed, the proposed regulations expressly contemplate students suing their schools: One of the major proposed changes outlaws binding arbitration as a means of resolving disputes. Instead, students could either file an administrative petition asking the Department of Education to cancel their debt, or file a lawsuit against their school (or perhaps both). Indeed, the proposed regulations seek to protect the use of class-action lawsuits against colleges. Students have a tremendous incentive to try to get out of paying for their education. More than two-thirds of college graduates carry student loans with an average debt of almost $35,000 - more for graduate students. Many will struggle to keep up with payments, especially in their first jobs. You can bet plenty will try to take advantage of this rule change. As long as a college did not mislead
prospective or current students about, say, graduation or job-placement rates, or the cost of tuition, it should not have to worry, right? Hard to say. The old standard required proving that the school deceived students, and it referred to state law requirements for misrepresentation. The newly proposed standard, “mislead,” is intentionally broader than “misrepresent.” It includes affirmative statements, but also failure to disclose something that the student can argue influenced their decision to enroll or to continue at the college. That could be just about anything, and a “borrower defense” can be raised any time before a loan is paid off. Colleges that admitted reporting inflated average SAT scores during the 2000s, hoping to influence the annual U.S. News & World Report college rankings, should be worried, as should those that employed even more creative methods. In 2008, Texas’ Baylor University offered $300 in bookstore credits to any incoming student who’d retake the SAT _ and if their score went up 50 points they were given a $1,000 scholarship. Baylor got a 10-point average SAT score bump out of the deal. Leaders at the University of California at Irvine Law School also had their eye on cracking the top 20 in their initial U.S. News ranking when they gave their entire inaugural class full three-year scholarships. The offer was designed to attract top students who’d otherwise pass on applying to a brand-new law school. Here’s the catch: Subsequent classes didn’t get the same deal, so the school cannot guarantee it would maintain a student body of that caliber. See the extended version on kentwired.com
Pryor long-term Ty Sugick Columnist
After an impressive start to the 2016 season for Terrelle Pryor, it is time for the Cleveland Browns to reward him with a long-term contract. Pryor’s presence and production have already earned him all of the near $1.7 million of his current one-year contract with the Browns. Through three short games, Pryor has already racked up 300 total yards and a touchdown. Most importantly, he has managed to stay healthy (which has been a glaring problem for the Browns thus far). Pryor has quickly adapted to coach Hue Jackson’s system and become a leader on this team. Looking at last week’s lost to the Dolphins, Pryor was a one-man show contributing to multiple areas of the offense. He is developing as a player that teams must prepare for week in and week out. Although Pryor’s success has been brief, the idea of what he can add to this roster
A Mag’s Do’s and Don’ts of Homecoming
for years to come deserves the potential of a
A Magazine Guest Columnist
the Browns, I’d say the benefits outweigh
There are larger issues in this world other than coordinating blue and gold — but not this week. It’s Homecoming! That means drinking too many Miller Lites your parents brought to the tailgate, something to do with Josh Cribbs and lots of Flash. No, not that kind of flash. It’s hard to navigate the ins and outs of Homecoming. Let us guide you through the end zone (yeah, we know sports):
Do’s
Plan for the weather. Kent is notorious for downpours during Homecoming — it’s looking like this year will be no different. The rain will not stop this school spirit, though. Decorate a cheap umbrella with friends in waterproof paint, and bring a warm drink to see all of Kent State’s clubs and sports teams. Don’t forget that rain poncho. There’s nothing sexier than a yellow rain poncho. Take advantage of the activities besides the game. Kesha and PartyNextDoor play Thursday night at 7 p.m. in the M.A.C. Center, the Kent State Bookstore is hosting a Book Festival commemorating local authors from 3 to 7 p.m., on Friday, and Saturday morning is the Bowman Cup race starting at the Student Recreation and Wellnes Center at 8 a.m. Plan your schedule wisely and don’t miss out on what means the most to you.
Rock your blue and gold. Even if this is the only day in the entirety of your studies at Kent State, homecoming is the time to make it happen. Ladies: try layering a denim a-line skirt with a vintage Kent State sweatshirt. Add some gold jewelry and a yellow bandana tied around your neck. Flash tattoos are awesome for Homecoming, too. Fellas: grab a pair of overalls and a striped blue and gold boatneck tee. You’ll stand out from everyone in jeans and a Kent State tee. Own a varsity jacket? We’re jealous—wear it with pride.
Don’ts
Go too hard. We shouldn’t have to tell you this. If you’re old enough to indulge in an alcoholic beverage, don’t forget that Homecoming lasts all day. That means starting at 10 a.m. with a champagne beer bong doesn’t sound like a major win. Skip out on the tailgate. Arrive early and with an appetite. This is Kent’s largest football game and if you’re not as obsessed with buffalo chicken dip and bacon mac and cheese as we are, you probably won’t understand the beauty of tailgate food. Craft something simple and delicious that’ll hold up for a few hours before the game (and maybe provides leftovers). We recommend slow cooking carnitas or smashing some avocados for your own guacamole.
long-term, incentive-based contract. Considering money isn’t an issue for the risk. It is also important to lock Pryor up before the season’s end in order to save them a bidding war and to avoid the risk of losing him for good. Cleveland has invested too much time to just let Pryor walk and blossom into a top receiver for another team. The Browns could offer Pryor a deal similar to San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Torrey Smith. Smith’s deal is $40 million over five years. The best part of the contract is that, on average, his guaranteed money is very low and manageable, which leaves most of his contract to be incentive-based. With an average of $1.75 million in guaranteed money per season, the Smith deal could serve as a solid model for keeping Pryor happy in a Browns uniform. Pryor’s future is certainly uncertain, but after an 0-3 start to the season, it might already be time to take risks on next year. tsugick@kent.edu
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The Kent Stater
From Page A1
SPENDING USG spends student... Donna Carlton, special coordinator for the division of student affairs at Kent State, said the money earned from ticket sales is then funneled back into the Undergraduate Student Government’s programming budget. That money goes to fund FlashFest, the final — and free — concert of the year for students to attend. Carlton estimated USG’s programming budget is about $5,000 less this year, as opposed to the 2015-2016 academic year, which Carlton attributes to enrollment and the budget office. According to documents obtained by The Kent Stater, the university paid artists and entertainers almost $300,000 for performances during the 2014-2015 calendar year, excluding the December 2015 performance by comedian Amy Schumer. This price tag included a $120,000 payout to bring comedian Kevin Hart in December 2014. USG is instrumental in deciding which artists come to campus. USG receives a portion of the budget allocated through the Center for Student Involvement. Samuel Graska, executive director of USG and senior biology major, said the compensation for artists comes from USG’s programming budget. “The money allocated for programming funds is used for various artists throughout the year … and we get a percentage of a percentage from the student activity fee,” Graska said. Student organizations, which include USG, receive 54 percent of the student activity fee and about 2.29 percent of the overall general fee paid by students — according to documents provided by Cindy Celaschi, a senior budget analyst in the University Budget Office — for the 2016-‘17 academic year, according to the USG Guidelines. Students, however, are also charged for individual tickets prior to the performances held at Kent State, which can range anywhere from $15 to almost $50 per ticket. Carlton said that even though students are paying a fee and concert tickets for the events, it is often cheaper than seeing the artist elsewhere. “We have two major artists coming, so you’re looking at what you would pay in one ticket, and instead you’re getting two,” Carlton said. “Bringing it here on campus, you’re not paying parking fees and other behind-the-scene costs that go into going out to an event.” While Kent State averages three to four major concerts and performances per semester, the amount spent per semester on acts and performances is not always equal. The university spent a reported $168,000 in Fall 2014, compared to $130,000 in Spring 2015, according to documents obtained by The Kent Stater. Clifford Glowacki, director of programming for USG and senior theatre studies major, said much of bringing artists to campus is based on their popularity and convenience to both them
Kesha $100,000 (Sept. 2016)
PartyNextDoor $75,000 (Sept. 2016)
The Chainsmokers $50,000 (April 2015)
Rae Sremmurd $40,000 (April 2015)
The cost of performers on campus
Jeremih $40,000 (April 2015)
Information gathered from individual artist contracts gives guaranteed rates.
The Heydaze $1,500 (Sept. 2014)
Steve Byrne $5,000 (Oct. 2014)
and the university. The difference in artist compensation is just a matter of when the contract is signed, Glowacki said. “As far as that (deciding which artist to bring) goes, it just kind of depends on if they have a tour coming through, (or) if it’s a one-stop show kind of thing,” Glowacki said. Glowacki also said Kent State and USG factor in new music or a new album when deciding who will perform. “As (far as) money goes and how much the
artists are paid, that is contractual information that is dealt by Kent State’s lawyers,” he said. “Generally, contracts are confidential and … only discussed between the lawyers, and the artist has a copy (of the contract). Kent State has a copy, and there’s no way for me to access it,” Graska said. “In terms of getting this information, it’s strictly confidential.” To view USG spending, public records requests must be submitted through the university and not requested from USG. The Kent
Kevin Hart $120,000 (Dec. 2014) Stater obtained 10 contracts of performances at Kent State over the past two years containing artist compensation, ticket fees and other legalities, which can be viewed on KentWired. Carlton believes that coordinating concerts has become much harder than when she started almost a decade ago, due to artists fees increasing and production values increasing as well. “It’s actually much more difficult,” Carlton said. “It’s certainly changed quite a bit.” mpoe3@kent.edu
'Kiss on the K' to include couple who met 51 years ago on campus Mallory Cox Alumni Reporter Rick and Francine "Cini" Anstey met 51 years ago on a double blind date in Verder Hall. The couple hit it off immediately and a lot of their Kent State memories include each other. They would sit in The Hub between class, completing crossword puzzles in what was then called The Daily Kent Stater. They spent weekends downtown with friends and at parties thrown by Rick’s fraternity, Phi Gamma Delta. The Ansteys will be making the drive to Kent for “Kiss on the K,” an annual Homecoming event that has alumni couples embrace each other in Risman Plaza, this weekend. The two will be one of the 2016 honorary couples. Rick graduated in 1968 with a business degree, but with the Vietnam War in full swing and being draft eligible, he had a difficult time finding a job. Rick wasn't drafted, and moved to Pittsburgh with Francine's family to look for a job. In 1969 Rick began working at Westinghouse Electric Company. Rick and Francine knew they wanted to build a life together. “We went to Pittsburgh together to ask for permission for us to marry, and her dad said no,” Rick said. “A year later, after Cini graduated, we popped the question again, and he finally said yes
... we got married in 1969, almost to the exact day we met four years prior.” Francine graduated in 1969 with a speech pathology and audiology degree. She then went on to get her master's degree at the University of Pittsburgh. Francine, who has a passion for teaching and working with deaf children, was offered a job at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf in Pittsburgh, a mile from Westinghouse Electric Company. In 2007, the Ansteys moved into a condo in downtown Denver. The couple said they enjoy the city life because it often reminds them of their years spent in Kent. They have four children — two living in Denver, one in Atlanta, and one in New York City. Rick and Francine spend their retirement driving throughout North America, spending time with their children and grandchildren and enjoying the outdoors. “We feel quite special and very honored,” Cini said. “We get a giggle over being selected because we don’t see ourselves as being that special.” "Kiss on the K" is scheduled for Saturday at 12:30 p.m. “You don’t have to be an Honorary Couple to participate,” said Marquita Rodgers, program coordinator of the university's alumni relations. “Grab your partner and come for kisses.” mcox28@kent.edu
Photo courtesy of Rick and Francine Anstey Rick and Francine Anstey are one of the honorary couples invited to participate in the 2016 “Kiss on the K” event at Risman Plaza. Rick and Francine met at Kent State, and have been together for 51 years.
Now-senior fashion design major Electa Royal and Alex Vasquez kiss among other couples during the “Kiss on the K” event in RIsman Plaza on Oct. 3, 2015.
Photo courtesy of Matt Merchant
Thursday, September 29, 2016 | Page A5
The Kent Stater
Classifieds
To place advertising, call (330) 672-2586, email ads@ksustudentmedia.com, or visit us in 205 Franklin Hall, Kent State University. Business hours are 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday–Friday.
HOROSCOPE RAY’S = Great Food Great hair doesn’t happen by chance. Evelyn Dickerson Hair Design 330-678-0262
Build your resume. Young Explorers Montessori is seeking full and part time teachers in Aurora, Streetsburo and Twinsburg. Send resume to lissette@youngexplorersmontessori.com. Hiring Customer Reps to sell Dish at a fun inbound call center. Hourly plus commission. No experience needed, hiring afternoon and evening hours, full or part time - we will work with your schedule. Email your resume or tell us about why we should hire you at tina@weknowdish.com.
Close to campus. 2 and 3 bedrooms, details for special move-in. Landlord pays heat, water and trash. Good parking, central air. 330-676-9440.
UNPLANNED PREGNANCY? Are you looking for a wonderful home and future for your child? We have been looking to share our love and lives with a child. Perhaps we are looking for each other. Kent State Graduate Please call 1-888-34-ADOPT code: 91704
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.
By Nancy Black Today’s Birthday (10/29/16). Consider what you really want this year. Set objectives, and carefully plan alternate routes. Look back, forward and from different angles. Career twists this spring come before you discover new passion. Domestic shifts next autumn lead to a professional flourishing phase. Poetry and ritual soothe your spirit. 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. Study money, and review your resources over the next two days. Work together. Heed a call to action for a shared passion. Offer advice only when invited.
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Today is a 6. Home upgrade plans keep evolving. Adapt to the confusion and changes. Don’t sweat small stuff. Avoid antagonizing each other, despite temptation. Nurture your family.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Today is a 6. Take things slow and easy. Sidestep a controversy that’s in process. Clean up messes. Review plans and adjust for recent changes. Peace and quiet restores you.
Taurus (April 20-May 20) Today is an 8. Work closely with a partner today and tomorrow. A flexible schedule allows a creative idea to develop. Let intuition dictate timing. Don’t rush things. Let it unfold.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Today is an 8. You’re especially creative with words and expression over the next two days. Use diplomacy with an unexpected reaction. Passions are in high gear. Look before you leap.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Today is an 8. Teamwork makes a crucial difference over the next few days. Confer with your allies. Keep confidences as conversations provide insight. Old and young share high ideals.
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Today is an 8. Your work is in demand. Keep moving, and profits roll in today and tomorrow. Keep costs down. Acknowledge limits, and revise. You can get what you need.
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Today is a 7. Consider new career opportunities for the next few days. Begin a testing period. Compete for more responsibilities. Don’t invest more than you can lose. Tend the fire.
Gemini (May 21-June 20) Today is a 6. Reschedule as needed today and tomorrow. Reduce stress for your health and continued productivity. Don’t disturb a watchdog. Slow down and walk around. Proceed with caution. Cancer (June 21-July 22) Today is a 7. You’re developing a new perspective. Gain insight from long distance communication. Find what you need close to home. Love makes you lovely over the next few days.
BLISS
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Today is a 9. You’re especially powerful and confident over the next two days. Create a buzz. Stay objective in a tense situation. Patiently extend your influence. Support your team.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Today is an 8. Conditions are better for travel over the next two days, and new opportunities present themselves. Hold your temper with a fool. Watch your step in shifting sands.
DOT GAME
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Page A6 | Thursday, September 29, 2016
The Kent Stater
Cleveland Urban Plunge allows KSU students to be homeless for a weekend Davy Vargo Student Life Reporter When she was 17 years old, Theresa Medrano was lying on the hard floor of an apartment hallway, covered with her coat, trying to sleep. After a domestic violence incident that left her voiceless for two weeks, Medrano joined the roughly 4,000 homeless people in Cleveland every night. "I wanted to go to prom and do all this stuff, and then here I was trying to figure out how I was going to make a living," Medrano said. By allowing Kent State students to experience what Medrano faced, the Cleveland Urban Plunge event gives students a weekend taste of what it is like to be homeless. The Cleveland Urban Plunge works with the Catholic Workers Movement, an organization geared toward relieving poverty, provide hot meals for the homeless, to understand their situations and tour the city to better understand the situation of those who are homeless and impoverished. Alexandra Ulbricht, outreach program officer for Kent State's Office of Experiential Education and Civic Engagement, said students will spend the weekend of Oct. 7 sleeping on the floor of the Catholic Workers storefront, an empty building. When each morning comes, the building will come alive. "When it opens for lunch time or breakfast time, we interact with the people that come, we serve them the meal, we do dishes, and we hang out and become part of that community," Ulbricht, "so it's a really great opportunity to hear their stories." During the weekend, 12 to 14 students will hear from different organizations who are invested in helping the poor, often from various ethnic communities, she said. Ulbricht will also be going along for the weekend. She believes it is beneficial for students to see what life is like for different people. "A lot of the people who come in to have the meal at the Catholic Workers storefront are just like you and I," she said. "We don't want to ever define these individuals by their socio-economic status. They are people who have had interesting lives. They are human beings. And they are people who we want to interact with, and to hang out with, and to learn from." Students will shop together and will eat at poverty level, which is $6 a day. Ulbricht said the event is a great way to meet friends and experience the homeless life together. Medrano, who is now living in her apartment
and attending Kent State — thanks to the generosity of two philanthropists — agrees that the Cleveland Urban Plunge is a worthwhile way to spend your weekend. "I think anyone that's even having the thought of considering going to the Cleveland Urban Plunge should definitely do it," the senior human development and family studies major said. "They can see what it's like to be homeless and realize everybody lives different lives — you have to take that into consideration when you meet with people. "It's depressing but I think it's an eye-opening experience, a great experience, for students to learn about what it's like to not have the essentials in life." Medrano herself isn't quite ready to attend an event that would throw her back into the homeless life. "I'm not sure I'm emotionally ready for it yet," she said. "Going back and seeing others going through it would break my heart." Medrano went on to explain one of the specific ways she was helped out of her situation. A local church gave her food and clothes and helped her on her way. "They were very non-judgmental toward me, and I think that's what kept me going," Medrano said. "I wouldn't have had nearly as much determination as I did if it wasn't for their help and them telling me to keep pressing on." To have volunteers who are encouraging and helping the homeless makes a huge difference, Medrano said. She also identified what, in her opinion, is the main problem for homeless people: transportation. Not having a car made it very difficult for her to make it to her job. Recently, the 23-year-old bought a car after teaching herself to drive in just two weeks. "Now being older, I feel more sympathetic towards homeless people because of the issue of finding transportation when you're trying to work a job,” Medrano said. "There are homeless people out there that are lazy, but I know people that are trying to get jobs, and they just can't." Medrano thinks of herself as a much more compassionate person now because of her experience. She said it made her see people as they really are: humans. "If I could go back to my senior year, I would do it all again because I feel those experiences, both horrible and great, made me into the person that I am today," Medrano said. Registration for the Cleveland Urban Plunge closes Monday, Oct. 3. dvargo10@kent.edu
Angelo Angel / The Kent Stater Logan Lott (left) and Matta Taylor play their guitars, while their dog Lucy rests in the guitar case in downtown Kent on Thursday, Sept. 22, 2016.
Music, food fills downtown bar scene Keisha Burley Student Life Reporter Like many Kent State students, junior communication studies major Tara Barone frequents the bars in downtown Kent often. One of the many highlights from her nights out are the live music and free food that surrounds her. “Anytime I see the band outside playing music, I always stop for a second to listen. I think it's fun that there’s people playing music for free. It livens up my walk," Barone said. "My favorite people to see, though, are the people who pass out pancakes. It’s always such a nice surprise to see them out." The band Barone is speaking of consists of two men. Albert, who likes to stick to just a first name, and Matta, who said his name is an archaic form of his birth name, and is what he prefers to be addressed as. The two men started their band in California prior to coming to Kent. “This was not a decided together operation,” Mata said as he strummed his guitar strings softly, hoping the people walking by would hear and throw some spare change into his hat. “Albert and I were going to go back to California, but Albert’s car got towed. “We were here and we realized ... that the people here are cool," he said. "So we thought we’d stay here for a little bit and play some music for you all." The two plan to eventually travel back to
their home in California for harvest season, but for now they are content with “playing songs for smiles” for the people of Kent. Traveling further down the sidewalk of Water Street, the aroma of freshly baked pancakes will fill passerby nostrils. Many students, unaware of the group behind the table with the griddle, visibly get excited at the sight of the "pancake people." Students can often be seen with pancakes in hand, syrup dripping down their arms, as they hop from one Kent bar to another. Anthony Giambroni, H2O's campus minister, had a hand in the idea of the stand. “I think that it begins with the idea that we want to build relationships with students on campus because as a church, it is important to learn how to identify with everyone,” Giambroni said. Along with pancakes, H2O also hands out granola bars and water. The stand is typically set up every Thursday night. “Part of it is just us simply trying to feed people. I mean, they’ve more than likely been drinking, so we're just trying to help them get something in their stomaches,” Giambroni said. “We are not doing it for the shock and awe, but — at the very least — if (the downtown pancake stand) messes with people’s paradigms about what kind of people are involved with our church, then that’s great.” kburley1@kent.edu
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