The Kent Stater - April 2, 2018 by The Kent Stater

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THE INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER | MONDAY, APRIL 2, 2018

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Lives

Inside KentWired’s coverage of the Washington, D.C. rally for gun control 4

Women’s Center looks ahead despite future relocation

Women at Kent State discuss impacts of social media on body image

KSU Tuscarawas student balances school with a political position

2 The Kent Stater

Monday, April 2, 2018

NEWS

Kent State students share tips for decorating on a budget Natalie Eusebio Commuter and Apartments Reporter While many students use college as a time to explore personal tastes and try new things, it can be hard to fully express yourself with minimal funding. Junior fashion merchandising major Margaret Fisher got creative when it came to making her apartment at 345 Flats on Depeyster Street her own. KentWired: Where did you find inspiration for your decorating? Margaret Fisher: I like really quirky-looking things. I find all of my pictures on Pinterest. KW: Did you always enjoy interior decorating? Or was it something that started when you came to college? MF: I always liked it. I’ve redone my room at home a few times. Like, I repainted it and everything. It’s interesting to see how when you get older, your taste changes. When I painted my room sophomore year of high school, it was bright purple. I don’t know why my parents let me do that. KW: Where did you find or buy a majority of your decorations? MF: Target. Always Target.

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Margaret Fisher poses in the living area of her 345 Flats apartment. Natalie Eusebio / The Kent Stater

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KW: Have you splurged on anything? MF: I’m really a budget shopper. My comforter and all that was like $30. I save my money for clothes and food. KW: What have some of your best deals and finds been? MF: My plant is my favorite thing in my room, and it’s still living. This picture of shoes from the Met I found at a garage sale. I think it ended up costing $3. KW: What would you like to do with your space in the future? MF: I’d like to minimize it a little more. I feel like when you walk, in you have to look at a lot of things. I’d like to add a rug and make it cozier. KW: How do you recommend getting started to a new apartment owner? MF: Start with the basics and work your way out. One of my roommates has a really bright comforter, so she had a hard time finding things to decorate with. Keep the major things more neutral and then decorate with lots of color.

Margaret Fisher’s neutral bed setting. Natalie Eusebio / The Kent Stater KSJJ4 7288

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JC: Those picture frames on the wall were only $2 a piece. I think they were from Walmart. The dresser was old, and I just repainted it. It was my mom’s from when she was little. It had all her old baby stuff in it. It was an ugly blue color, so I just repainted it. KW: What are some trends that you are fond of? JC: I love white and gold. I feel like that was a big trend when I first came to college, but I still love it. I really enjoy accent pillows too. KW: What are some things you have tried that didn't work? JC: There was a lot of DIY stuff I tried that I ended up hating. One time I tried to paint these flower pots with glitter, and it got all over everything. My books along with everything I owned was covered in glitter. I threw those away.

KentWired: Where did you find inspiration for your decorating? Jordan Campanelli: Lots of Pinterest stuff. I see everything on Pinterest and try to recreate it as best as I can. KW: Did you always enjoy interior decorating? Or was that something that started when you came to college? JC: Yeah, I’ve always liked it. I really like to see what other people do. I like when things go together really well. My room at home was never anything special. So yeah, I would say it started more when I got to college and had my own space. KW: Where did you find or buy a majority of your decorations? JC: TJ Maxx, Walmart and Target. Some things were gifts, too. KW: Have you splurged on anything? JC: Pillows, yes. They are probably the most expensive thing. I love pillows, and they can really bring the room together. KW: What have some of your best deals and finds been?

Contact Natalie Eusebio at neusebio@kent.edu.

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Sophomore biology major Jordan Campanelli shows off her apartment. Natalie Eusebio / The Kent Stater

4 The Kent Stater

Monday, April 2, 2018

Women's Center looks ahead despite future relocation in KSU’s Master Plan Faith Riggs and Moira Reed Women and Gender Issues Reporter and Construction Reporter Just two years after becoming the home of the Women’s Center, the Williamson House will be torn down to make space for a new parking deck. “Initially, we were surprised by the decision to take down our current space after only two years, but now we understand it is part of a larger comprehensive plan that’s best for the university,” said Cassandra Pegg-Kirby, the director of the Women's Center. The change is all part of the university’s 10-year Master Plan to renovate Kent State’s campus. The new parking deck will serve as a convenience for commuter and offcampus students. “The relocation of the Women's Center will be included in Phase I of the Master Plan, which runs from 2018 to 2020,” said Kristin Anderson, Kent State’s director of external media relations. Both transformational projects lock in at 12 through 14 on a list of 17 total construction projects that comprise Phase I. “The demolition of Williamson House and Carriage House will follow with a multi-use parking structure off Main Street, planned to begin construction in Phase I as well,” Anderson said. The Women's Center, Sexual and Relationship Violence Support Services (SRVSS) and the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are organizations currently in the Williamson House. “My energy is certainly supporting the efforts of the larger plan but also advocating for the space and the resources we have here,” Pegg-Kirby said. The center currently offers services such as faculty and staff yoga, a food pantry, mentorship and various other programs and initiatives. “Certainly, the physical space supports the ability for us to do our jobs, but so much more about what we do is the figurative spaces we create wherever we are, so people can come in and come together in conversation,” Pegg-Kirby said. Pegg-Kirby is not sure of the relocation process, but she has ideas of where the center could thrive. “I would love to relocate in a creative and collaborative space, such as the innovation hub,” Pegg-Kirby said. “We need a space that

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Molly Merryman and Evgenia Fotiou talk at the Williamson House Grand Opening Sept. 28, 2016. Deidre Pulley / The Kent Stater

all members of the Kent State community can feel comfortable in.” Anderson said the details as to where the center will be moving on campus are still under consideration by the Board of Trustees. “There are many factors to think about when making a campus-wide decision,” Anderson said. Total costs for the demolition, relocation and multi-use parking structure add up to over $25 million. “I don’t think changing our physical location will impact or affect the work we do, and in many ways it can be an opportunity for the Women's Center to grow and continue to articulate our underlying values to the rest of the university,” Pegg-Kirby said. Contact Faith Riggs at friggs@kent.edu. Contact Moira Reed at mreed54@kent.edu.

We need a space that all members of the Kent State community can feel comfortable.” – Cassandra Pegg-Kirby Director of Women’s Center

Monday, April 2, 2018

KentWired.com 5

Women at Kent State discuss impacts of social media on body image Gershon Harrell Diversity Reporter Calla Motsis, a freshman visual communication design major, takes pictures with her friends. These pictures range from selfies to full-body pictures with everyone being side-by-side. She describes her high school friends as “really thin” and “really good looking.” Little do they know, she is self-conscious when it comes to taking and posting pictures on social media, and she sometimes finds herself posing certain ways to morph her body image. “I need to see it before anyone posts it,” Motsis said. “I don’t want to get fat shamed on the internet.” With the impact of social media, some women seek perfectionism and question their body image in comparison with others. Motsis recalls her time where she had a friend who was a victim of cyberbullying. She was fat shamed and almost took her own life because of it. “The worst part was ... everyone knew she was anorexic,” Motsis said.”Everyone knew that she went through those issues, and then that’s why they fat shamed her.”

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Shannon Ciesla, an assistant professor of psychology at Kent State, talked about perfectionism and gave examples of being the perfect student, daughter, sister or significant other. “A lot of times where we see ... perfectionism being highlighted on social media in particular is when it comes to body image,” Ciesla said. Ciesla said women may find themselves on social media looking at pictures of celebrities or a peer and making comparisons. She also introduced the concept of social comparison, something that teenagers and young adults engage in, whether it’s about body image or a grade on an exam. “I think it’s very easy to engage in that social comparison and say, ‘Why don’t I get that kind of attention?’ or ‘Why don’t people make those kind of comments on my pictures?’” Ciesla said. Emily Waldvogel, a senior English major and an intern at the Women’s Center, said she used to feel pangs of jealousy whenever she was on Facebook. She would have thoughts such as, “I wish that could be my life,” or “Why doesn’t my hair look that good?”

I think it’s very easy to engage in that social comparison and say, ‘Why don’t I get that kind of attention?’ or ‘Why don’t people make those kind of comments on my pictures?’” – Shannon Ciesla Assistant professor of psychology

Calla Motsis (far left) poses with her friends. Gershon Harrell / The Kent Stater

Waldvogel speaks on how sometimes when women find themselves comparing themselves to other women, it can lead to competition. “You want to one-up each other,” Waldvogel said. “This person might have a job, but do they have a job and a boyfriend? Well, I have a job and a boyfriend.” Waldvogel said instead of being passive aggressive and tearing one another down, women should be bringing each other up. Social media can create high and sometimes unrealistic expectations. Ciesla said she would speak to teenagers who would bring up these kinds of issues. “Perhaps what is being put out there — again, because of all those apps and

things like that — is this ability to alter your appearance, alter everything about your life that you’re kind of presenting in a certain way on social media,” Ciesla said. “I guess that might very well have a negative impact on those that are frequent consumers on social media.” Waldvogel said she often uses filters on Snapchat to hide her acne. “When we have women who already look good who are then being enhanced to look even better, you’re like, ‘Why can’t that be me?’” Waldvogel said. “And it definitely sets all these unrealistic standards that it's hard to escape from.” Contact Gershon Harrell at gharrell1@kent.edu.

6 The Kent Stater

Monday, April 2, 2018

SPORTS

Kent State's Pimnipa Panthong poses with her trophy after coming in first place at the BYU at Entrada Classic. Photo courtesy of Kent State Athletics.

From Thailand to Kent, up-and-coming Panthong adjusts to college golf, American culture Amanda Levine Sports Reporter At first, Pimnipa Panthong wasn’t interested in coming to Kent State. Her main goal was to immediately play professional golf. At the time, coach Greg Robertson and assistant coach Maddi Swaney had another golfer who committed to the Flashes, but decided at the last minute she didn’t want to come. Facing the possibility of losing a player, Swaney believed the team should try pursuing Panthong again. Robertson flew to Thailand during July to watch Panthong play and meet her and her parents. From there, Panthong made the decision to attend Kent State. She packed her bags and left behind the culture she knew to pursue a new beginning in college golf. In addition to meeting with Robertson, she also met with teammate Wad Phaewchimplee. Phaewchimplee is from Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city, and took Panthong under her wing to help her adjust to the U.S. “When I first came here, my English wasn’t good, so I was scared to talk,” Panthong said. “(Phaewchimplee) gave me advice on how to talk and about the culture here.” Phaewchimplee showed Panthong the ropes of Kent — where to eat, the classes to take and helped her learn English. “Having somebody from your country that you could talk to that was a senior helped (Panthong),” Robertson said. “(Phaewchimplee) had been through it for three and a half years and could show her how things worked and just kind of basically be a big sister for that first year.”

Panthong began playing golf at age 10. She was a part of the Thai national team where she met future teammate and best friend Thitapa Pakdeesettakul. Pakdeesettakul will be attending Kent State in Fall 2018 to play golf. Panthong said she is looking forward to Pakdeesettakul joining the team. “She's my best friend,” Panthong said. “I'm looking forward to playing golf with her and doing some fun stuff together.” Although golf is an individual sport, the team still encourages one another to do well. They travel together, practice together and some players even live together. “We still play our own game, but it’s fun having teammates and traveling together,” Panthong said. “It’s a new experience. It's an individual sport, but still you have to trust and believe in each other.” Panthong is living with two teammates and friends, Julia Goodson and Karoline Stormo. Goodson and Panthong decided to live together after last year when they met through golf and lived in the same residence hall. Goodson describes Panthong as very sassy and sarcastic off the course, but when she’s on the course, she is positive and uplifting. From golf and from living together, the two have grown to know each other very well. Goodson was also able to help Panthong when she struggled with her English. When Panthong is stuck on a word, Goodson can step in and help her complete her sentence. “If she can’t think of a word from the context, I’ll offer up some options,” Goodson said. “It’s so funny because we got to the point where we knew each other so well where she could do hand motions and I could be able to guess it.”

Whenever the three roommates travel to the golf course, they blast Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” in the car. It’s their favorite song, and they know every lyric from the five minute, 55 second song. “We literally know all the lyrics to it,” Goodson said. “Whenever we’re driving somewhere, all the teammates, all of the freshmen, we just turn up the volume and sing as loud as we can.” Panthong’s first tournament with the Flashes was the Mercedes Benz Intercollegiate. She finished in first place. She now ranks 39th in the country, and in 2017, she won Mid-American Conference golfer of the year and freshman of the year. Robertson said Panthong’s biggest strengths are driving the ball and her iron play. “College golf didn't phase her,” Robertson said. “Coming to a university, being away from home, … and then from there, she ended up being an all-American her freshman year — second team All-American. It was a pretty smooth transition.” Panthong said one thing she struggles with is her mental game. She is working on being more cautious on her shots. Panthong said one reason for mental mistakes is “course management.” “I have to try not to hit a risky shot,” Panthong said. “(In a par-5), I got in trouble, and I just have to lay up.” Panthong’s favorite course is the The Entrada at Snow Canyon in Utah. She likes it not only because of the layout but because of the significance. The Entrada at Snow Canyon was also where the movie “High School Musical 2” was filmed. Panthong grew up watching the movie and was excited to go back to the course

after struggling in last year’s tournament. “It's a beautiful golf course,” Panthong said. “Last year, I didn’t play well on one hole, and this year I want to go back and do well.” The Flashes went back to the course for a tournament in early March, and Panthong finished in first place. Her success doesn’t stop at the awards. On March 15, Panthong was picked by a committee to participate in the Arnold Palmer Cup. She will join Herb Page, Kent State’s men’s golf coach, in representing the international team. The Arnold Palmer is one of the most prestigious tournaments in college golf. The Arnold Palmer Cup is a co-ed tournament with two teams: Team USA and Team International. There are three ways to be invited to the tournament: automatic picks, committee picks and coaches’ picks. Each team is made up of men and women from all over the world who play college golf. The tournament will be in France, a country Panthong has never visited. When Panthong first arrived in Kent, Phaewchimplee walked her around campus and downtown. She introduced her to the city and gave advice on the best professors. Just a few years ago, Panthong came to America not knowing what to expect, having never played college golf and speaking in broken English. Now, Panthong’s favorite type of food to eat is Mexican, her favorite place downtown is Peace, Love and Little Donuts, and she’s one of the best players on Kent State’s up-and-coming women’s golf team. Contact Amanda Levine at alevine3@kent.edu.

Monday, April 2, 2018

KentWired.com 7

Gordon, Haniger homer in Mariners' 5-4 win over Indians Daimon Eklund Associated Press

Cleveland Indians first baseman Yonder Alonso walks through the dugout after the Seattle Mariners defeated the Indians 5-4 in a baseball game Sunday, in Seattle. AP Photo / Ted S. Warren

American League Central Standings W

Pct

White Sox

1.000

Twins

Indians

Tigers Royals

Home

Away

L10

0-0

2-0

.667

0.5

0-0

2-1

.333

1.5

0-0

1-2

.000

2.0

0-2

0-0

0-2

.000

2.0

0-2

0-0

0-2

SEATTLE (AP) — Dee Gordon and Mitch Haniger homered, Mike Leake pitched seven strong innings and the Seattle Mariners beat the Cleveland Indians, 5-4, on Sunday. Edwin Encarnacion went deep twice for the Indians, his 29th career multihomer game. Gordon and Haniger connected in the seventh, when the Mariners broke a 2-all tie on their way to winning the series. Leake (1-0) gave up two runs and five hits. He has allowed three runs or fewer in all six starts since joining the Mariners late last season. Gordon led off the seventh with a tiebreaking shot to right field off Dan Otero (0-1). Gordon clearly knew he'd hit it well — after making contact he watched the ball and walked out of the batter's box. A few batters later, Haniger added a tworun drive off reliever Tyler Olson to give Seattle a 5-2 lead. They were the first runs Olson has allowed with Cleveland — last year he threw 20 scoreless innings in 30 appearances for the Indians. Encarnacion cut the lead to one with his second homer in the eighth, a two-run shot. Edwin Diaz struck out all three batters in the ninth for his second save. Cleveland starter Trevor Bauer allowed two runs and five hits in five innings, striking out seven and walking three. Cleveland opened the scoring with Bradley Zimmer's RBI single in the second. The Indians took a 2-0 lead on Encarnacion's leadoff homer in the fourth, which hit the hand-operated scoreboard in left field. Bauer got out of a two-out jam in the

third. He gave up a single and back-to-back walks to load the bases before striking out Kyle Seager. The Mariners tied the game in the fifth on run-scoring doubles by Jean Segura and Seager. It was Seager's first hit of the season after starting 0-for-8.

TRAINER'S ROOM

Mariners: Nelson Cruz twisted his right ankle Saturday slipping on the dugout steps after a home run. Cruz had an MRI on Sunday morning. "We'll have to wait and see what the results are," manager Scott Servais said. "If it's going to be longer than three or four days, we'll have to make a roster decision. Right now, we'll keep our fingers crossed he'll bounce back." Outfielder Ben Gamel, on the disabled list with a strained right oblique, will join Triple-A Tacoma for some simulated games this week and begin a rehab assignment with Tacoma when the team's season starts Thursday. Right-handed pitcher Erasmo Ramirez is expected to throw in a simulated game with Tacoma as he recovers from a strained lat muscle, and C Mike Zunino (left oblique strain) might also play in a simulated game this week.

UP NEXT

Indians: Cleveland starts a three-game series at the Los Angeles Angels on Monday. Mike Clevinger will make his first start of the season. Clevinger is 2-0 with a 3.94 ERA in four career starts against the Angels. Mariners: Marco Gonzales opens a twogame series at San Francisco on Tuesday.

8 The Kent Stater

Monday, April 2, 2018

KentWired.com 9

COVER

'Stand for us or beware — the voters are coming':

Protestors arrived in Washington, D.C., to protest for stronger gun laws, on March 24, 2018. Megan Humphrey / The Kent Stater

One million people march on Washington Addie Gall Student Politics Reporter Chants of “Power to the people, not the guns,” flooded the nation’s capitol as gun control activists gathered for the March for Our Lives on March 24. On Feb. 14, after a shooting in Parkland, Florida, survivors made it their mission to create change in gun legislation in the name of the 17 people who lost their lives after a 19-year-old gunman entered the halls of their school and forever altered their lives. The warm weather welcomed 1 million people, double the predicted turnout, for the rally in Washington, D.C. Students were not alone in the streets of D.C.; they were joined by people of all ages, including teachers. Kelly Brady, a teacher from New York City, made the trip to represent her students. “It gives me a lot of hope as a teacher and a human being,” Brady said. Protestors carried a variety of signs with the singular message “Never Again,” which Lisa Shipp, a teacher and mother from Virginia, held up high. “We don’t need automatic weapons, even for hunting,” Shipp said. Shipp was joined by Angela Bach and Deanna Cox, both moms from Virginia. Bach, who has a son who lives in Charlottesville, said the current generation is inspiring change much like in the 1970s. Amid those advocating for change in gun legislation were members of Gun Owners of America, the second largest gun lobby in America. Aidan Johnston, a student at George Washington University and member of Gun Owners of America, wants those who have experience owning guns to be a part of the conversation.

A protestor walks up the stairs during the March for Our Lives in Washington, D.C., on March 24, 2018. Megan Humphrey / The Kent Stater

Hundreds of protestors arrived in Washington, D.C., to protest for stronger gun laws on March 24, 2018. Megan Humphrey / The Kent Stater

“I see a lot of uneducated statements being made by the media,” Johnston said. Underneath the shadow of the Capitol, survivors of gun violence took to the stage to tell their stories. Cameron Kasky, a survivor of the Parkland shooting, said young people are the voice of the future because they are the future. “Stand for us or beware — the voters are coming,” Kasky said. This day was especially important to the Parkland shooting survivors. The March for Our Lives shares an important date: Saturday was Nicholas Dworet’s birthday, one of the 17 students who lost their lives. Samantha Fuentes, another survivor of the Parkland shooting, ended her time on stage by asking the crowd to join her in singing “Happy Birthday” to Dworet. Voices filled the breezy D.C. air as those in the street joined the melody. He would have been 18. Closing speaker and Parkland survivor Emma González spoke briefly, naming each of the victims who lost their lives at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida. In the middle of her speech, she stood in silence for a few minutes as the crowd raised their fists until a timer went off,

breaking the stark silence. “Since the time that I came out here, it has been six minutes and 20 seconds,” González said. “The shooter has ceased shooting and will soon abandon his rifle, blend in with the students as they escape and walk free for an hour before arrest.” On the day in 1965, young people marched in Alabama from Selma to Montgomery for the right of all citizens to vote, and now today’s young

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people marched for gun safety. After a guest speaker was announced, the audience went quiet until they heard her last name — King. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 9-year-old granddaughter, Yolanda Renee King, stepped onto the stage to inspire the crowd. “I have a dream that enough is enough, and that this should be a gun-free world, period.” Contact Addie Gall at agall7@kent.edu.

I have a dream that enough is enough. And that this should be a gun-free world, period.” – Yolanda Renee King Martin Luther King’s granddaughter

A protestor’s sign hangs over the barriers during the March for Our Lives protest in Washington, D.C., on March 24, 2018. Megan Humphrey / The Kent Stater

8 The Kent Stater

Monday, April 2, 2018

KentWired.com 9

COVER

'Stand for us or beware — the voters are coming':

Protestors arrived in Washington, D.C., to protest for stronger gun laws, on March 24, 2018. Megan Humphrey / The Kent Stater

A protestor walks up the stairs during the March for Our Lives in Washington, D.C., on March 24, 2018. Megan Humphrey / The Kent Stater

Hundreds of protestors arrived in Washington, D.C., to protest for stronger gun laws on March 24, 2018. Megan Humphrey / The Kent Stater

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I have a dream that enough is enough. And that this should be a gun-free world, period.” – Yolanda Renee King Martin Luther King’s granddaughter

A protestor’s sign hangs over the barriers during the March for Our Lives protest in Washington, D.C., on March 24, 2018. Megan Humphrey / The Kent Stater

10 The Kent Stater

Monday, April 2, 2018

Continuous update of mass, school shootings in US Editor’s Note: Each dot on this map represents either a mass shooting or school shooting that has occurred since Jan. 1, 2018. All information is compiled from the Mass Shooting Tracker. Its definition of a school shooting is any weapon that has been fired on a school campus, whether or not it results in an injury or death. Regardless of the physical damage, a gun being fired on or near a school contributes to the fear students face in society today.

April 1, 2018: Asbury Park, New Jersey, 5 injured and 0 killed. March 31, 2018: Shelby, North Carolina, 4 injured and 0 killed. March 29, 2018: Plano, Texas, 3 injured and 1 killed. March 24, 2018: West Valley City, Utah, 4 injured and 0 killed. March 21, 2018: San Francisco, California, 5 injured and 1 killed.

School shootings

Mass shootings

School and mass shootings

*The darker the red circles, the more severe the incident

Our View: Food for thought after the spring break lull The Stater’s Sunday production night coming back from spring break is never the most productive. As staff members file back in from their respective travel destinations (no, we didn’t sit in Franklin Hall all week), small talk permeates the newsroom. At one point, though, the casual conversation took a turn as the subject shifted: The mention of Girl Scout Cookies season sparked a half-hour debate over which cookies reigned supreme. Design Director Addie Gall vehemently touted Tagalongs as the best, simultaneously claiming Samoas to be “disgusting” to the agreement of several other staff members. Taking exception to the degradation of the

coconut-based treat, Print Managing Editor Lucas Misera joined the fray, passionately defending Samoas. Looking to diffuse the tension, Assigning Editor Henry Palattella recommended an elaborate system of voting to officially formulate a KentWired ranking of seven different Girl Scout Cookies: Thin Mints, Samoas, Tagalongs, Do-si-dos, Trefoils, S’mores and Savannah Smiles. After an in-depth, journalistic investigation, here’s what we found: Tagalongs were a runaway favorite. In the 10 participants’ rankings, the peanut butterchocolate confection ranked no lower than fourth on the list.

Thin Mints finished behind Tagalongs. While it was never a legitimate contender to finish first, it was a mainstay in the mid-tier, a consistent cookie that drew minimal ire. The highly-divisive Samoas ranked third, much to the dismay of half the voters. Samoas tied Tagalongs for first-place votes with three but finished in the bottom two for four of 10 voters. S’mores and Do-si-dos, a less-polished version of the Tagalong, tied for fourth. In sixth place were Trefoils, the punchless shortbread cookies with a penchant for mediocrity. Savannah Smiles faired poorly, coming in

as the worst cookie. The zesty, lemon-based cookies left a sour impression on the staff, warranting a bottom-two ranking for seven different voters. If you’ve already familiarized yourself with the carousel of Girl Scout Cookies, you probably have your own opinion. And that’s fine. If you’re new to Girl Scout Cookies, there may be opportunities to purchase from leftover inventory at roadside stands if you’re lucky enough. If you give it a shot, consider this your guide. After all, the staff was 10 minutes late to its meeting for this.

SUBMISSIONS: The Stater hopes to encourage lively debate about the issues of the day on the opinion page. Opinions on this page are the authors’ and not necessarily endorsed by the Stater or its editors. Readers are encouraged to participate through letters to the editor (email them to lmisera@kent.edu) and guest columns. Submissions become property of the Stater and are subject to editing without notice.

Monday, April 2, 2018

So you come to me for forgiveness again? Brandon Bounds “Son, can you forgive me?” I’ve been asked that same question from my father three times in my life. The first time my father asked me for forgiveness was when I was six or seven years old. I didn’t know what it was for because I was so young at the time. I just blindly said yes. The next time he asked for forgiveness was when I was a college student at Kent State. It was my 19th birthday when he messaged me on Facebook. I haven’t talked to him in over 12 years. We met at an Applebee’s during spring break 2017. A few minutes after we’ve been seated at our booth, he posed the question: “Son, can you forgive me?” I thought about it for a while, and here’s a little context as to why. My father left my mother and me not too long after I was born. I haven’t heard from or seen him for six to seven years. My mother asked one day if I ever wanted to see my dad. I said yes. Shortly before I knew, I was sitting right across from him at a booth in McDonald’s. We got to know each other for a little less than a year. We would hang out every weekend with one another. I vividly remember seeing “Racing Stripes” and going to the Pizza Hut buffet. He introduced me to my stepmother and my four brothers I never knew I had. I remember walking with him into a Walmart one afternoon and spotting a “Spongebob Squarepants” DVD I really wanted. I asked my father if he could get it for me, and he said yes. I promise to get it for you next week, he said. Two months passed, and I haven’t received a thing. He made a promise to get me something, and he didn’t keep it. I confronted him about it soon after, which led me to not talk to him for about 12 years. My mother would occasionally talk to him during those years saying how he was a deadbeat and that he lost three jobs in one week at some point. As she talked more about it throughout time, I began to see the hatred she had toward him.

I blocked out her thoughts on him after a while. I didn’t want her feelings toward my father to affect mine. I needed to have my own feelings. After all, I didn’t know him as well as she did. “Do you ever wish to speak to your father again?” My mom would ask this occasionally. I never gave her a straight answer. I was going through a weird phase. I wanted to resent my father, but something in my heart wouldn’t allow me to. I wanted to try to talk to him, but something in my heart was telling me not to. These thoughts and feelings repeated for 12 years. Flash forward, at Applebee’s, my father kept telling me about how he’s now a changed man. He’s now a pastor of a church 10 minutes from his house. He’s now a guardian for my 16-yearold cousin. He said God showed him the light and was doing everything in his power to better himself and make up for his past mistakes. I wanted to believe him. I wanted to see how much my dad changed since his early years of misjudgment. I forgave him, yet I didn’t say those exact words. We’ll take baby steps, I said, and we’ll go from there. It’s been nearly two years now, and I started to see the kind of man my father was. I’ve watched him preach during a church service. A man in his late 30s or early 40s came to the church, asking my father to help guide him to a better path in life. My father said no more and welcomed him into his church with open arms. I will never forget that moment. I sat with him, my stepmother and my brothers while being honored at a dinner. People said nothing but good things about his generosity and caring for others. I was proud of the man he was becoming. He actually changed. At least, so I thought. I get a text one morning from my little brother, and these were his exact words: “What’s up y’all? Dad fucked up, and if he comes to you for pity, don’t give him any. He cheated on Mom.” Needless to say, my brother was livid. I was as well, but not for the reason you might think.

I’m used to his cheating ways. He cheated on my mother while I was just a baby. He even cheated on my stepmother on a couple of occasions before this one, my little brother said. I’m mad about it all — every last bit. However, I find it more disappointing because he reverted back to his old ways even after I forgave him. He put on this fake facade that he was now a man of God and wanted to do right by his family and those around him. I’m waiting for the moment my father will come to me for my pity and forgiveness, and the hardest part won’t be forgiving him, but even considering giving him the time of day. Here’s how I see it. He cheated on his wife, causing her to feel embarrassed, vulnerable and betrayed. His sons are now disgusted by his actions and disappointed that he would do such a thing. For all that, he lost the trust of his family and those closest to him, and for what? A cheap thrill or mindless decision where he didn’t once think of those who did care for him. I’m mad at myself for not seeing this coming. He told me a lie as soon as we started talking again. I should’ve blocked him on social media and made sure he could never contact me again. I didn’t, though. I desperately wanted to have some sort of connection with my father again, and I didn’t want something like that getting in the way. My brothers came to me, rightly frustrated and on the verge of crying. I felt angry, yet powerless, to the fact that I couldn’t soothe the wrong that was done. His actions now leave me with more questions than answers. Why did he decide to cheat on my stepmother? Why did he cheat on my mother when I was young? Why did he want to hurt those around him? Why didn’t we come first? What could I have done? What can I still do? Here are my final thoughts: I know he’s going to ask me for the third time, “Son, can you forgive me?” This will be my answer: Can water and oil mix? No matter how many times you shake it up for it to mix together, the two will always separate. Contact Brandon Bounds at bbounds@kent.edu.

KentWired.com 11

NUMBERS TO KNOW:

Number of pitches until the 2018 MLB season’s first home run Chicago Cubs player Ian Happ cranked the first pitch of the new MLB season for a home run off Miami Marlins pitcher Jose Urena.

Easter eggs hidden for April Fools egg hunt

A viral video shows children scavenging for eggs. The problem? Zero eggs were hidden at the event in an Easter-themed April Fool’s prank.

Cheers&Jeers

Cheers to ... sweet treats. Volunteers at a Texas festival set a record by crafting the longest ice cream dessert, a 4,549-foot-long sundae.

Jeers to ... finishing the semester. After a week-long spring break, Kent State students returned to classes with over a month of classes remaining.

12 The Kent Stater

Monday, April 2, 2018

Kent State Tuscarawas student balances school with a political position Brynn Pennell Regional Campuses Reporter Most 19-year-olds could barely imagine holding some type of political office. Not Eric Harmon. The Kent State Tuscarawas freshman is currently the youngest elected official in the state of Ohio, serving as the councilman-atlarge member for Uhrichsville City Council. The 2017 Claymont High School graduate announced his intention to seek office his senior year, three weeks before the deadline to get his name on the ballot. “I was approached by a few different people telling me a seat was open, as one of the previous council members was going to retire after over 20 years of service,” Harmon said. “I thought a lot about the opportunity, and eventually I just did it and ran.” Harmon’s interest in politics was sparked by the American Legion Buckeye Boys State, an eight-day summer camp teaching young men about city, country and state government. Despite Harmon’s young age, he received a lot of positive feedback throughout the campaigning process. “I have always been someone who takes themselves seriously, and I think that kind of got a serious reaction out of others,” Harmon said. As of now, Harmon’s main goal in office is to bring new businesses to Uhrichsville. “Right now, what we have to do is attract new businesses to come in and employ our citizens,” Harmon said. “If we can get new businesses to come in, we can provide more jobs to our citizens, and that is more income tax for us. With more income tax, we are able to get that money and put it toward our city services.”

Harmon’s future goals in office include paving roads, boosting infrastructure and expanding Uhrichsville’s city services for the police, fire and street departments. As a student and elected official, Harmon hopes to gain more insight into politics and be able to collaborate well with a different age group. “It has been a little bit of a challenge (working with older people) but we have been able to break through the challenge and are able to work together and get things done,” Harmon said. In addition to serving on council, Harmon is a full-time integrated social studies major at Kent State Tuscarawas. “Kent Tuscarawas is a great resource for our community, and it provides a quality education for a very reasonable price, and I was able to do that while serving on Uhrichsville council,” Harmon said. As for Harmon’s future in politics, holding a higher position in office isn’t out of the picture. For now, his main focus is on the citizens of Uhrichsville. “As of right now, I am focused on my work as a council member in Uhrichsville,” Harmon said. “I will admit, I haven’t closed the door on seeking higher office, although my main priority right now is focusing on Uhrichsville and what we can do to make a difference.” To young students with high hopes and big aspirations, do something you’re passionate about, Harmon said. “Be willing to be compassionate to other people, and treat others the way you want to be treated,” Harmon said. “Find something you care about, get good at it and don’t forget where you came from.” Contact Brynn Pennell at bpennel1@kent.edu.

‘‘

Eric Harmon poses for a photo. Courtesy of Kent State Tuscarawas' Deborah Ellwood.

I have always been someone who takes themselves seriously, and I think that kind of got a serious reaction out of others.”

– Eric Harmon Uhrichsville city councilman

Monday, April 2, 2018

KentWired.com 13

Trump on deal for 'Dreamer' immigrants: 'NO MORE' Darlene Superville Associated Press President Donald Trump on Sunday declared "NO MORE" to a deal to help "Dreamer" immigrants and threatened to pull out of a free trade agreement with Mexico unless it does more to stop people from crossing into the U.S. He claimed they're coming to take advantage of protections granted to certain immigrants. "NO MORE DACA DEAL!" Trump tweeted an hour after he began the day by wishing his followers a "HAPPY EASTER!" He said Mexico must "stop the big drug and people flows, or I will stop their cash cow, NAFTA. NEED WALL!" The U.S., Canada and Mexico are participating in tense negotiations over the North American Free Trade Agreement at Trump's insistence. Trump says NAFTA is bad for the U.S. "Mexico has got to help us at the border," Trump, holding his wife's hand, told reporters before the couple attended Easter services at an Episcopal church near his Palm Beach, Florida, home. "If they're not going to help us at the border, it's a very sad thing between our two countries." "A lot of people are coming in because they want to take advantage of DACA," he added. Former President Barack Obama created the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program to provide temporary protection and work permits to hundreds of thousands of immigrants who are living in the U.S. illegally after being brought here as children. Trump ended the program last year, but gave Congress six months to pass legislation enshrining it. A deal has so far proved elusive, and Trump has blamed Democrats. It was not immediately clear what Trump was referring to when he said people are coming to take advantage of the program. The Department of Homeland Security is not issuing new permits, though existing ones can be renewed. The Obama administration allowed sign-ups during a set period of time, and the program is closed to new entrants. Proposed DACA deals crafted by lawmakers and rejected by Trump also were not open to new participants. Trump did not explain what he meant when questioned by reporters as he entered the Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea with the first lady and his daughter Tiffany. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for clarification. Trump, when addressing reporters briefly before entering the church, again blamed Democrats for failing to protect the "Dreamers." "They had a great chance. The Democrats blew it. They had a great, great chance, but we'll have to take a look because Mexico has got to help us at the border. They flow

President Donald Trump pauses mid-speech at the Covelli Centre in Youngstown, Ohio on Tuesday, July 25, 2017. Lydia Taylor / The Kent Stater

right through Mexico. They send them into the United States. It can't happen that way anymore." Trump promised during the 2016 presidential campaign to build a southern border wall to stop illegal immigration and drugs from Mexico, but Congress has frustrated him by not moving as quickly as he wants to provide money for construction. The president also complained on Twitter that border patrol agents can't do their jobs properly because of "ridiculous liberal (Democrat) laws" that allow people caught for being in the country illegally to be released while they await a hearing before a federal immigration judge. Trump tweeted that the situation is "Getting more dangerous" and "Caravans" are coming. He did not offer details to back his comment. The president's tweets came after Fox News' "Fox & Friends" reported early

Sunday on what it said is a group of 1,200 immigrants, mostly from Honduras, headed to the U.S. The segment was a follow-up to a report by Buzzfeed News on hundreds of Central Americans making their way through Mexico in hopes that American authorities will grant them asylum or be absent when they attempt to cross the border. The Fox headline was "Caravan of illegal immigrants headed to U.S." The president is known to watch the cable TV program in the morning. Brandon Judd, leader of the union representing border patrol agents, predicted on "Fox & Friends" that those in the caravan would create havoc and chaos in the U.S. as they wait for what he described as immigration reform. Judd also said Congress needs to pass tougher laws, an idea Trump appeared to echo, and create more bed space for immigration authorities to house people. Some fellow Republicans chided Trump

over the tone of the tweets. "A true leader preserves & offers hope, doesn't take hope from innocent children who call America home. Remember, today is Easter Sunday," tweeted Ohio Gov. John Kasich, a Trump critic who challenged him for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination. Sunday's church visit was Trump's first public appearance with his wife since CBS' "60 Minutes" aired an interview the previous Sunday with Stormy Daniels, the adult film star who said she had sex with Trump in 2006, early in his marriage and a few months after Mrs. Trump had given birth to their son. The White House said Trump denies the affair. Mrs. Trump spent most of the past week in Palm Beach with her son. The Trumps were returning to Washington later Sunday.

Associated Press writer Kevin Freking in Washington contributed to this report.

14 The Kent Stater

Monday, April 2, 2018

Review

‘Ready Player One’ masterfully brings out the teenager in all of us

Photo courtesy of Warner Brothers

Alex Novak Entertainment Reviewer The magic of going to the movies can undoubtedly be one of the best experiences a person can ever have during their life. Nothing quite matches the feeling of being exhilarated by a memorable film. “Ready Player One” does what few movies can accomplish by perfectly providing a nostalgic, inventive and original story that takes over your mind. Based on the 2011 novel of the same name, the movie is the latest entry from all-time great filmmaker Steven Spielberg, who brought us classics such as “Jaws,” “E.T. the “Extra-Terrestrial,” “Jurassic Park,” Schindler’s List,” “Saving Private Ryan” and more. Around every corner of the movie’s mystery — the game’s puzzle — is its numerous references or plot importances given to various pieces of ‘80s music, movies, TV shows, games, clothing, lifestyle, figures, catchphrases and comics. One of the clear inspirations behind the film’s old-time but new-wave atmosphere is Back to the Future, which Spielberg executive produced. The film’s protagonist, Wade Wallace/Parzival, is essentially our Marty McFly. The film uses the famous DeLorean as Parzival’s vehicle of choice, parts of the same music mixed into the score by composer Alan Silvestri and even a Zemeckis Cube used to go a minute back in time — paying tribute to the classic trilogy’s director. Indeed, a handful of ‘80s and pop culture references are woven seamlessly into the film, whether it be Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s “The Shining” or the vintage Atari 2600 gaming system. The plot of the film revolves around the teamwork of a group of normal players, known as the “High Five,” as they attempt to win the game in the virtual reality world known as the OASIS. Through completing different challenges to find three keys, they can gain control of the OASIS from its deceased creator, James Halliday, by obtaining the golden egg and keeping it out of the hands of the IOI, a company that seeks to control the virtual reality game for its own profit and not for the good of the

citizens of Earth in the year 2045. The film also captures the life of what many introverted kids go through mentally while growing up. Quite a few teenage kids are wallflowers, distanced from the numerous cliques of the high school life and also often avid fans of many particular games, shows or bands. We often refer to these works as not exactly popular, but to have gained a cult following. The film explains plainly that some people simply don’t feel comfortable in this world, and the games or fantasies that they enter into are their escape. It’s a trip to a place where they feel free to be themselves and are able to do so. It’s an appreciation film for the so-called nerds, the introverted geeks and the awkward that is within everyone. You can do anything and be anyone in the OASIS, because sometimes you don’t always like who you really are — much like Halliday felt his whole life. And sometimes the freedom to be who you want to be can help you discover the joy in being who you truly are. With that being said, it is not a movie just for the gamers. It explains beautifully that anyone can play a game and illustrates just how exhilarating it can be. The objective doesn’t have to be winning or even for competition; it really just has to be about having fun and discovering what could possibly turn into the incredible. “Thank you for playing my game,” says Halliday, having left the OASIS to a trusted predecessor. By the time the credits roll, audiences will feel like they have traveled back in time for a dip in the magic waters of their past, discovering a sense that they have witnessed greatness unfold while seeing this film. The journey will make one feel like a kid again, young at heart, while providing them with a mindset as if they were on top of the world to leave with. It leaves no stone unturned along its creative and seamlessly constructed, spellbinding path. With every twist and turn and big reveal, you will be watching real magic take place.

Contact Alex Novak at anovak12@kent.edu.

Monday, April 2, 2018

CLASSIFIEDS Lawn maintenance company seeks FT/PT employee starting at $11.50/hr. Must have valid drivers license 4 points or less and reliable transportation, please call 330-688-3389 or email lawnpride1978@gmail. com.

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.

Leasing for fall 2018 Spacious 2,3,4,&5 bedrooms with 2-3 full baths. Great condition, A/C, washer/dryer, dishwasher, deck, garage. Starting at $350 a room. 330-808-4045

AVAILABLE NOW. Short term leases and leases in August available. Close to campus. 2 and 3 bedrooms, details for special move-in. Landlord pays heat, water and trash. Good parking, central air. 330-6769440.

Kent 2 and 3 bedroom apartments. Air, appliances, carpet, heat and water paid. No pets or Section 8. $660 and $810. Short term available. 330-6775577

For rent, 4-5 bedroom town homes for Fall 2018. Newly Remodeled, 2.5 baths, washer, dryer and dishwasher included. Sign early get a free months rent. Please call 330-685-9622 or text 330-770-2197 for more details.

FALL 2018: 2 Bedrooms Available in Luxury 5 bedroom 2 bath house LESS THAN 1 MILE FROM CAMPUS and on the bus route!! Remodeled inside, very spacious rooms, big closets, large deck, your own laundry room, newer appliances, and more. Join current group of 3 girls. 385/mo per bedroom includes all utilities except electric and cable/internet. 330-552-7032

5 bedroom 2.5 bath. All appliances and washer/dryer. $460 a month/per person. All utilities and cable/internet included. 2 bedroom 1 bath $750+ See JLCASTO.COM 330-6887040

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Kent Studio, 1, 2, & 3 BR Full Apartments Newly Remodeled Avail Pet Friendly Across From Kent State Swimming Pool Fitness Center Call Today Cable & Wifi Included 330-673-8778

Leasing for Fall ‘18-’19 Large 1 Br utilities incl Parking 1 blk from campus Call to schedule tour 330-678-3047 www.buckeyeparksmgmt.com

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Leasing for Fall ‘18-’19 Spacious 3 & 4Br Brownstones On campus busline W/ parking 1 block from campus Call to schedule tour 330-678-3047 www.buckeyeparksmgmt.com

Kent, open August, licensed student housing, 3 bd halfhouse, bath, LR, kit, private entrance and porch. $425/mo per bedroom or discount $1,200/ mo + util. 1 year lease, no pets. 330-697-7771 OR 330-3572101. Also Two 1 bd apartments $450/mo available August.

HOW TO ADVERTISE For information about placing a Display ad please call our offices at 330-672-2586 or visit us at 205 Franklin Hall, Kent State University. Our office hours are from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. 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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KentWired.com 15

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