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THURSDAY 01.14.16
PHOTO BY JOEL REPOLEY I STAFF Friends and relatives gathered to remember Caleb Hallett, a Lafayette High School senior and the third person killed in Lexington in January. Hallett was shot near State Street.
Four killed in Lexington this year
Police hold press conference to address unusually high rate of shootings throughout town By Joshua Qualls jqualls@kykernel.com
The Lexington Police Department held a press conference Wednesday afternoon to go over the status of several pending murder investigations. In January, there have been 10 gun-related incidents in Lexington including six assaults and four homicides. The first homicide took place Jan. 1 at 432 Roosevelt Blvd. Police Chief Mark Barnard said the victim left his residence to meet someone after receiving a phone call sometime around 2 or 3 a.m., and that was the last time he was seen. Barnard asked for anyone who has information to report it to LPD or Crimestoppers. “Why the victim left
the house is what we’re trying to determine,” Barnard said. This case is still under investigation. “The other cases right now we have firm suspects, in that we’re looking at, have made an arrest or hope to make an arrest soon,” Barnard said. The second homicide took place Jan. 3 at the University Trails apartment complex on Red Mile Road. Barnard said the victim and the suspect knew each other and went to a party with one other person. Police have arrested the suspect, and this investigation has been turned over to the Commonwealth Attorney’s office. The third homicide took place Saturday on the 200 block of Uni-
versity Ave. LPD has obtained arrest warrants for Kenyon Hipps, 21, Marquess Smith, 18, and three 17-year-old males in connection to the investigation at 213 University Avenue. Officers responded to a call at the location at about 3 a.m. Saturday. Police found two gunshot victims inside a vehicle, including Caleb Hallett, a Lafayette High School senior who later died at UK Chandler Hospital. Barnard said the suspects approached the victims. Two of the unnamed juvenile suspects are in police custody, but the other three remain atlarge. One of the juvenile suspects in police custody has only been charged with two counts of firstdegree robbery, while the
other suspects have additionally been charged with murder and first-degree assault. Barnard said the location on University Avenue is known to police as a high-risk area. Brenna Angel, a spokeswoman for the LPD, said the suspects were targeting the address itself, not the victims. “This was a high-risk house that we have looked at before and that we’re still continuing to work on,” Barnard said. LPD has also turned over this case to the Commonwealth Attorney’s office. The most recent homicide took place Tuesday on the 1400 block of Russell Cave Road. While the investigation is underway, police know it was not a random act — the victim
and the individual knew each other. Barnard said LPD is confident an arrest will be made soon. “It’s a very fluid investigation,” Barnard said. “The investigators are out in the field.” LPD and the Commonwealth Attorney’s office are concerned about an increase in gun-related crime. “It’s an anomaly for Lexington,” Barnard said. Fayette County Commonwealth Attorney Ray Larson’s office recently re-launched the Cease Fire Project, a team of local, state and federal police and prosecutors who focus on reducing gang activity and gun-related crimes. “It used to be two or three shell casings at a shots-fired area. We have had as many as 50 shell
casings in a shots-fired area,” Larson said. “Thank God these guys are pretty bad shots or we’d be coming up on dead bodies.” Larson’s office has been tracking 93 pending gun-related cases since Jan. 1. Of the people charged in those cases, 41 have been charged with armed robbery, 31 have been charged with convicted felon in possession of a handgun and seven have been charged with burglary. Sixty-three have previous criminal records. “We know two things about criminals and custody: when they’re on the streets they commit crimes, and when they’re in custody they don’t,” Larson said. “We owe more to the good guys in this town than we do the bad guys.”
Battle of the bookstores
UK enacts price matching strategy to compete with online services By Marjorie Kirk mkirk@kykernel.com
To combat heavy competition with online retailers like Amazon and Chegg, the UK Bookstore will implement a new price matching initiative for textbooks. Students who show a lower cost of the exact edition, format and condition of a book on Amazon, Chegg and BN.com can purchase it in the UK Bookstore, according to an email sent to UK students Jan. 7. This does not include books sold by individuals instead of the companies. The bookstore is supplied by retailer Barnes and Noble, who supplies textbooks for hundred of campus bookstores across the country, according to the Barnes and Noble College website. In addition to the price matching
initiative that went into effect for the Spring semester, the UK Bookstore will allow students to exchange gift cards for Barnes and Noble cards that can be used in the store. “The price match program is just the latest initiative in our efforts to ensure UK students have access to the most affordable course materials to ensure academic success,” UK Bookstore General Manager Dave Lang said in an email to the Kentucky Kernel. Lang said price-matching will not cost the university, but there has been concern in the community that it could hurt the historic, family-owned bookstore Kennedy’s. Carol Behr’s father Joe Kennedy founded the store to compete with
the UK Bookstore and offer students cheaper books, according to Behr. Behr said when the UK Bookstore transitioned to Barnes and Noble’s ownership their shelves were
However, Kennedy’s location at Eastern Kentucky University suffered from competition with Barnes and Noble. “They only let the students use their financial aid at the campus bookstore,” Behr said. “That cut us off, it was like herding everybody there. We couldn’t compete so we closed.” Carol Behr When Behr heard Kennedy’s General Manager Barnes and Noble was taking over the UK Bookstore, she met with Executive Vice mostly filled with new President of Finance and Adbooks, which made Kenministration Eric Monday about nedy’s inventory of used how it would affect Kennedy’s books the cheaper option business. Behr said Monday asfor students. sured her the transition would
“If you’re OK to price match, don’t you maybe think your prices are too high?”
CALIPARI STICKS WITH UKpg. 8
not affect her business. “UK has been good to us, because I think they know we provide good service and fair competition, by letting us have the financial aid, letting us have the plus account,” Behr said. “They could pull the plug on that tomorrow.” Despite all of the UK Bookstore’s initiatives, Behr said she thought Kennedy’s would still be able to compete because the UK Bookstore’s prices would still be too high for students. “If you’re OK to price match, don’t you maybe think your prices are too high?” Behr said. Kennedy’s stays open as late as 8 p.m. some nights for weeks when students buy, rent and sell back their books in large numbers, at the beginning and end of semesters.
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kernelfeatures 2 I Kentucky Kernel
I 01.14.16
National gun debate hits UK
Proposed legislation would allow concealed weapons at schools By Lexington Souers lsouers@kykernel.com
PHOTO BY TAYLOR PENCE I STAFF William, who prefered to not release his last name, lives and works at the Hope Center. He has been homeless since 2001, and is one of Lexington’s 1,267 homeless people.
Homeless shelters prepare for approaching winter By Lexington Souers lsouers@kykernel.com
In the dropping temperatures of early January, a homeless man died behind Wildcat Wearhouse. As winter weather worsens, Lexington’s 1,267 homeless are at increased risk of disease and injury. Buildings that provide shelter alternately act as wind tunnels and drive down the temperature. Local aid centers, like the HOPE Center, are preparing for the influx of client needs. Carrie Thayer, director of development at the HOPE Center, said there are overflow shelters for when the organization’s 800 beds are full. The center prepares with extra supplies and partners with local churches to make sure no one is turned away. “We definitely see a rise during the colder months,” Thayer said. “In talking to the clients, they’re obviously feeling very alone - alone and cold, and scared for their safety.” Thayer suggested giving something tangible, like a gift card, food, blanket or clothing item. She said some of the men said that bus passes, blankets and gloves have been their favorite donations. “You want to make sure they use the money wisely,” Thayer said. “While you can’t guarantee that, it is a little easier with something tangible.”
William, a resident at the HOPE Center and originally from Nicholasville, has been homeless since 2001. “As soon as I got here, the first couple of days were rough. I didn’t have a clue what I was doing, and I guess what really started me on my way was that I had a friend,” William said. William works at the HOPE Center and is active in his church. Last summer, he returned to the streets as part of a street ministry program. “I’m going to say something that’s sort of profound,” William said. “The homeless are not homeless because they want to be, it’s because of their circumstances that they are homeless.” Closer to campus, students may notice many homeless people gathering at the McDonald’s on South Limestone. LaRhonda Golden, an assistant manager at McDonald’s, said the number of homeless people isn’t necessarily connected to UK’s campus. Instead she said the location’s proximity to downtown, as well as resource centers, makes it an ideal place to gather. “A lot of the reasons why homeless people come down here is because it’s easier to panhandle, it’s closer to where they get the help that they need as far as like the churches and stuff like that,” she said.
Golden is clear to point out that other local restaurants won’t allow the homeless inside. Those who visit the McDonald’s on South Limestone still have to purchase something. Other popular places are the library, and Triangle Park, but Golden said that as the weather gets colder, more will go to Mcdonald’s. Golden has worked with McDonald’s for nine years. She said all McDonald’s have an issue with homeless people, but this location is the worst she has experienced. UK doesn’t have a policy on having homeless people on campus. UK spokeswoman Gail Hairston said there was an isolated case in the past where a student felt threatened, but UKPD and ResLife were notified. There has only been one reported instance of student homelessness, where a student left their residence hall after financial hardship. The student was reffered to Student Affairs by UK ResLife and was able to get a part time job and a place to live. If a student is struggling with homelessness they can reach out to the the VIP Center, counseling opportunities, the Community of Concern and the Dean of Students. Editor’s note: For privacy reasons, the HOPE Center asked that William’s last name not be released.
New year, new art for Lexington Nearly 50 venues to support local businesses, artists By Kyle Bigelow features@kykernel.com
The LexArts Gallery Hop will unveil new work by new artists at new venues for the new year. Forty-eight galleries, museums, studios and supporters are opening their doors, admission gratis, from 5-8 p.m. on Friday showing all forms of media, from Florida coastline photography to wrought iron sculptures. LexArts has shown and sold work from hundreds of artists — often from the Lexington area — for 27 years, according to the event’s website. Each venue curates its own space with pieces of its choosing. The Episcopal Diocese of Lexington will exhibit a large photograph of the church, coupled
with a brief parish history at each of its participating locations. Christ Church Cathedral on East Fourth Street promises a smorgasbord of work, with paintings, woodwork and the self-proclaimed “world’s largest mustache cup.” “Think about a cup, and inside there’s kind of a little band at the part you put up to your lip for protecting your mustache,” said Margaret Christensen, Christ Church Cathedral parish secretary. “(Artists at Transylvania University) did a replica of one of their collections, and ... you can walk in and sit in it. It’s hysterical.” Gallery Hop not only supports local artists, but local businesses as well. Even on the eastern edge of the bimonthly event, the Lexington School of
Photography draws landscape and thoroughbred enthusiasts to view work by professionals and amateurs alike. “We do get a fairly decent turnout because we’re above Wines on Vine, which is a fairly well-known watering hole,” said Charters Osborne, co-founder and featured artist. “Somewhere between 40 and 50 people. Sometimes significantly more. If it’s a UK game night, significantly less.” The newly-condensed Ann Tower Gallery will now share the Downtown Art Center, located at 141 E. Main St., using the second level to feature abstract, oil-on-panel landscapes by one of their contracted artists, Patrick Adams. “The (DAC) is really kind of the hub. It tends to be where people come first to get Gallery Hop guides,” said Lina Tharsing, local artist and manager of the Ann Tower Gallery. “Most
galleries serve food or snacks or something, and it’s just kind of a night to get together with friends and travel from one gallery to the next.” For art patrons intending to meander away from the consolidation of venues downtown to those with exhibits on the geographic fringes of the event, a trolley will be provided by Lextran to transport citizens, free of charge, from stop to stop over the three hours of operation.
A Kentucky representative presented a bill to the House of Representatives Tuesday that would allow people with valid licenses to carry concealed weapons on public elementary and secondary school grounds, as well as public college campuses like UK. The bill follows President Barack Obama’s recent executive action requiring stricter background checks and also requiring people selling firearms to register as gun dealers, even if they operate on a small scale. Ilya Chernyavskiy, the Kentucky state director of Students for Concealed Carry, said the current concealed carry policy leaves students unarmed and in danger. The role of concealed carry is to act as a pro-second amendment group that advocates for concealed carry on college campuses. “By allowing more people to protect themselves, we’re seeing a decrease in crime,” Chernyavskiy said. “It puts the burden of self-defense on the person, not the police.” UK’s Concealed Carry students petitioned to change the state law in order to allow students to carry a weapon in their car or glove box, but the group is not currently active. David Burnett, a UK graduate and former UK chair of Concealed Carry, said education is one of the keys to helping people feel more comfortable around guns and with those who chose to carry. “The only reason UK hasn’t seen a mass shooting is because no one has wanted to engage it,” Burnett said, citing the lack of armed guards and other protections as holes in student security. But Burnett countered his indictment of UK security by saying the institution of the text alert system has helped to prepare campus for emergencies. Still, he argued that decreased restrictions on conceal and carry would allow members of the UK community to “throw more than a pencil” at an attacker. Sean Simons, Deputy Press Secretary for Americans for Responsible Solutions, said there was a gun violence problem in America, and the statis-
tics, “make America stand out against peer developed countries in a way we don’t want to.” Americans for Responsible Solutions is a national organization founded in 2013 after Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords was shot at a public meeting near Tucson. The organization attempts to take a moderate approach to an often polarized issue. Obama’s recent executive order will strengthen background check requirements and change how small private retailers sell firearms. But Chernyavskiy said he believes Obama’s orders will
“Particularly at a state level, reducing gun violence has been a bipartisan issue.”
Sean Simmons
Americans for Responsible Solutions
not change anything, especially from a conceal and carry standpoint. Burnett said they would be unenforcible. To carry a concealed weapon, a person must be 21 or over, be a Kentucky citizen, pass a background check and demonstrate competence to be in a firearm safety class. According to the Gun Violence Archive, there were 13,351 gun related deaths in 2015. This number included accidental deaths as well. Burnett said conceal and carry on campus is, “one of the best ways for a woman to protect herself.” In a situation where size or experience may mean women are unable to defend herself, he said, “guns are the great equalizers.” According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, women are 11 times more likely to be killed by a gun. While Americans for Responsible Solutions may not be focusing on guns on college campuses, the age range of college students is something to consider. “Gun violence is touching our local community and people are not as isolated as they used to be,” Simons said. “Gun violence knows no bounds.”
IF YOU GO Lexington art galleries will open their doors and unveil new artwork Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. LexArts Gallery Hop has been going for 27 years.
every hour. every day. www.kykernel.com
Student talks drone crash, love of aerospace By Joshua Qualls jqualls@kykernel.com
After months of silence, the UK law student who crashed a drone into Commonwealth Stadium during the first game of the 2015 football season has decided to speak out. Following the incident, UK Police Department charged Peyton Wilson, a 24-year-old second year law student, with second-degree wanton endangerment, a misdemeanor offense. Wilson made a plea deal Jan. 6 and his charges were reduced to thirddegree criminal trespassing, a violation similar to a parking ticket. The incident is still under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration. “The resolution and plea reached in this case speak for themselves,” UK spokesman Jay Blanton said. Though UKPD pressed charges against Wilson, he was not suspended or expelled. Instead, the administration summoned Wilson to a student code of conduct hearing, where he had a long conversation with Denise Simpson, director of the Office of Student Conduct. Simpson ultimately determined that Wilson did not violate the student code of conduct, he said. Wilson’s journey with drones began, like many other enthusiasts, when he became fascinated with remote controlled vehicles as a kid. After years of not owning or using remote controlled devices, he read in a property class about the legal circumstances surrounding drones, which fed into his interest with aerospace law. “It just kind of opened my eyes to the possibilities that are drones, and the positive economic impacts that they can have,” said Wilson, whose familiarity with apps and
1.14.16
Loved ones remember slain Lafayette student
Caleb Hallett’s friends, relatives told stories in candlelight to pay tribute to high school senior By Will Wright wwright@kykernel.com
PHOTO BY JOSHUA QUALLS I STAFF Peyton Wilson’s journey with drones began when he became fascinated with remote controlled vehicles as a kid.
smartphones from working at places like Best Buy and T-Mobile helped him become accustomed to the technology. Wilson cofounded Aerora Inc., a marketing company that uses drones to film events and landscapes, with a college friend about six or seven months ago. However, he said his focus has mostly been on the business and legal side of things. “I am not the best pilot that has worked with Aerora Inc.,” Wilson said. Wilson recreationally operated the drone, a DJI 1 T600, while walking in a parking lot across Alumni Drive from the stadium, having wanted to see the top view of the stadium during the first game of the season. He attended a tailgate party before the incident, but he said he did not drink alcohol while he was there. Wilson said he thinks his controller lost connection with the drone because of interference from other wireless devices around the stadium, but he does not know for sure. The drone had a “return to home” function, which means that it was supposed to level itself out at a preset altitude and return to a preset location, but that also did not work. Drones are preprogrammed and regularly updated with FAA flight parameters, which would typically
prevent drones from flying into areas where they are not supposed to operate, Wilson said. He was not aware of the crash until he approached a police officer to identify himself as the drone operator and make sure that nobody had been harmed because of the lost connection. FAA policy restricts aircraft from flying in an area within three miles and up to 3,000 feet of special events. It also advises recreational drone operators against flying near people or stadiums, flying above 400 feet or flying within five miles of an airport. Commercial operators can get FAA approval to use drones outside these parameters; Wilson’s company has a level of FAA authorization, but UK did not contract its services and Wilson was not operating the drone in that capacity. Wilson said he advocates for the technology because it could be useful to people in a wide variety of ways. “What I did is set a precedent in the field,” Wilson said. “Drone operators out there know that if they don’t have permission and they do land on a person’s property, that (criminal trespassing) is what you can expect — not wanton endangerment.”
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Almost every day, Bryson Hallett and his brother would take some time to drive around town, talk and listen to their favorite music. They would talk about anything and everything, Bryson Hallett said, and there was no one better to talk to than Caleb Hallett. “He’d listen for hours,” Bryson Hallett said. About 200 people bundled up in blankets and winter coats at Gardenside Park to come together and remember the Lafayette High School senior, who was shot Saturday near State Street. His family, friends and coworkers huddled around lit candles to share stories, and to pay tribute to Caleb Hallett’s kindness and sense of humor. “If you were in a tight spot, he would do everything to
help you out, even if it hurt himself,” said Owen Pulley, a friend of Caleb Hallett’s. The two first met when Pulley was trying to buy lunch at Lafayette High School. Pulley forgot his wallet that day and had no money to buy himself lunch. Caleb Hallett saw Pulley unable to pay, and without ever having met him, Caleb Hallett offered to pay for his meal. “I always wonder what ... would’ve happened if I didn’t forget my wallet that day,” Pulley said. “I would’ve never met the most amazing person I ever met.” Pulley and Caleb Hallett went on to become good friends, and they spent time together while Caleb Hallett made music with his rap group, LexTown Operation. Within two days of starting, Caleb Hallett was able to produce music, and his friends said he became a driving force
behind the group’s music. “He was the one who motivated us to get it done quickest, and the best,” said Tucker Lewis, a friend of Caleb Hallett’s. “He taught me confidence, how to be myself.” The vigil began with Bryson Hallett telling stories about how his brother influenced him, his friends and his family to love each other and to be happy. After a few stories, Bryson Hallett’s friends crowded around and embraced him. Members of LexTown Operation said they would continue making music in Caleb Hallett’s honor. When Caleb Hallett was not listening to or producing music, his friends said he was probably talking about his mother’s cooking or cracking jokes. “He never did anything but love everybody he met,” Bryson Hallett said. “Best man I’ve ever known.”
PHOTO BY JOEL REPOLEY I STAFF Hundreds braved the cold to meet at Gardenside Park and speak about Caleb Hallett, a senior at Lafayette High School who was shot and killed Saturday near State Street.
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I Kentucky Kernel I 01.14.16
NEWS
Lexington hosts Tracy Morgan By Dan Bodden news@kykernel.com
Comedian and actor Tracy Morgan will perform at Comedy Off Broadway at the Mall at Lexington Green this weekend. Morgan, known most recently for his role as Tracy Jordan on “30 Rock” and as a voice in “Rio,” will perform seven shows Thursday through Sunday. On Thursday, the show will start at 7:15 p.m. and the Friday, Saturday and Sunday shows will be held at 7:15 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. each night. “I don’t watch (“Saturday Night Live”) or “30 Rock,” but I think he’s funny because he was in that kids’ movie ‘Rio’ and all I watch are kids’ movies so it tickled me,” Spanish and anthropology senior Kelsey DuLaney said. Lexington will be the second city Morgan visits as a “warm-
up” to his nationwide “Picking Up The Pieces” tour kicking off Feb. 5 in Hammond, Indiana. DuLaney was not surprised to see Lexington as a warm-up stop on the tour. “Kentucky has gotten a lot bigger as a destination for celebrities to come in, I guess because we’re expanding in a lot of different ways and avenues,” DuLaney said. Morgan was in a nearly fatal car accident in June 2014 that led to him being in a coma for several days. After a long recovery, Morgan is now back on tour. The show will be for those 18 and older only with a one drink minimum. As of press time, ticket sales were closed for all shows except the 9:45 p.m. Sunday show. Tickets for the 9:45 p.m. Sunday show are $38 and can be purchased on the Comedy Off Broadway website.
PHOTO BY OLIVIER DOULIERY I ABACA PRESS/MCT/TNS President Barack Obama at his last State of the Union spoke on issues directly affecting UK students, including student loan debt, the minimum wage and gun violence.
Obama addresses student issues By Cheyene Miller cmiller@kykernel.com
PHOTO BY DONNA WARD I ABACA PRESS/MCT Comedian and actor Tracy Morgan will perform at Comedy Off Broadway Thursday through Sunday.
In his last State of the Union speech, President Barack Obama spoke on several issues that could have major impacts on college students nationwide including the minimum wage and college tuition. Obama spoke in favor of public funding for college education, citing his proposed legislation that would give American students two free years of community college. He vowed to continue fighting to enact this policy in 2017. “We’ve already reduced student loan payments to ten percent of a borrower’s income,” Obama said to a majority-Republican Congress. “Now, we’ve actually got to cut the cost of college.” The average student loan debt in the U.S. is about $30,000, according to data from the Institute for College Access and Success.
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He also proposed raising the minimum wage, currently $7.25 per hour. Louisville and Lexington both enacted plans to raise the citywide minimum wages, with Lexington going to $10.10 per hour over the next three years and Louisville
“We want to make it easier for people to participate,” Obama said regarding voter participation in America, which is lower than most developed countries, according to information from the Pew Research Center.
“The president briefly suggested taking action against gun violence, which has directly affected UK in recent months.” going to $9 per hour by 2017. In May, UK president Eli Capilouto proposed a plan to increase the starting wage at UK to $10 per hour for all nonstudent hourly workers. Obama also advocated for higher voting participation and called for a modernization of voting technology.
Americans aged 18-29 have the lowest turnout rate of any age group according to data from electproject.org. The president briefly suggested taking action against gun violence, which has directly affected UK in recent months. Caleb Hallett, a senior at
Lafayette High School, was shot dead Saturday night near State Street. His death came about nine months after Kentucky Kernel photo editor Jonathan Krueger was shot and killed near the 400 block of East Maxwell Street. Obama took executive action to enact new gun control measures on Jan. 5, which, among other things, would push to expand background checks on firearm purchases. He also discussed education, using the No Child Left Behind act as an example of successful bipartisan action, touting increased high school graduation rates and improvements in early childhood education. “So I hope we can work together this year on bipartisan priorities like criminal justice reform and helping people who are battling prescription drug abuse,” Obama said. “We just might surprise the cynics again.”
kernelopinions
Top political stories of 2015
From socialism to ‘Trumpism,’ it was a year that divided America CHEYENE MILLER Managing Editor
Few years in recent memory have been as revolutionary for American politics as 2015. The year demonstrated how polarized American politics have become, with each side of the political spectrum touting presidential candidates who, until recent years, would have been seen as fringe at the very best. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the year’s top political stories as we prepare for what might be the most consequential election of this generation.
“Bevin’s victory was representative of a change that is occurring nationwide.” Matt Bevin defeats Jack Conway in Kentucky: Bevin’s victory was representative of a change that is occurring nationwide. Bevin was only the second Republican elected as governor of Kentucky in 40 years. This was a monumental changing of the guard for a state that has consistently voted Democrat at all levels of state government for generations, especially considering Bevin is far more conservative than the typical establishment Republican. Most importantly, his victory shows that American voters need to start taking presidential candidate Donald Trump seriously. If Kentucky voters will choose an ultra-conservative career businessman over a career politician, then American voters can do the same.
The year of the Donald: Americans can’t get enough of Donald Trump. The billionaire real estate mogul made his announcement to run for president in June, and his campaign became surrounded with controversy from the start. During his announcement speech he suggested that Mexican immigrants are drug peddlers and rapists. Since then, Trump said Sen. John McCain was not a war hero despite being a prisoner of war in Vietnam, and more recently he posited a plan to ban all Muslim immigrants. To the surprise of many on the left, center and even moderate right, Trump’s popularity has for the most part never waned. He still sits atop the Republicans with a 16-point spread. Bernie Sanders makes huge gains on Hillary Clinton: Hillary Clinton has been poised for more than a decade to become the nation’s first woman president. She was the favorite to win the democratic nomination for the 2008 election until a senator named Barack Obama won voters with his ideals and progressive values. It must feel like Déjà vu for Clinton, as Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders experienced a rise in popularity in 2015. The longtime independent advocates the democratic socialist policies, which has made him highly beloved by progressive voters. Young Americans are especially pulling for Sanders, who advocates public funding for college education and raising the federal minimum wage. Clinton still has a nine point lead in the polls, but if Sanders’ popularity continues to grow, Clinton could be in for a fight. With 2015 in the books, time will tell if big names like Trump and Sanders continue to make waves in the American media. Cheyene Miller is the managing editor of the Kentucky Kernel. Email opinions@ kykernel.com
Don’t degrade ‘kinky’ behavior MELLISA ESTEBO Contributing Columnist
With the start of a new year and a new semester, it’s fitting to introduce the new Q & A section of “The Pleasure Principle.” In addition to writing “The Pleasure Principle,” I host “Sexually Speaking,” a radio show and podcast weekly on WRFL 88.1 FM. “Sexually Speaking” already has a following, so we’ll be using the show’s contact information to allow “The Pleasure Principle” readers to send in their questions regarding sexuality. All sexuality questions can be sent in anonymously. Sometimes it can be difficult and even embarrassing to ask your parents or friends questions about sexuality. My hope is that “The Pleasure Principle” will be students’ outlet for honest, factual and non-biased answers to one of the most important aspects of our existence — sexuality. Now that that’s taken care of, let’s get down to business — the business of kinky behavior. According to the website sexetc.org, kinky is defined as, “Relating to or appealing to more uncommon or atypical types of sexual behaviors.” Examples include the following: spanking, BDSM (Bondage and Discipline, Dominance and Submission, Sadism and Masochism), and role-playing (the acting out or performance of a particular role). While these examples might seem a little out of the ordinary, they are more common than one might think.
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ur The Pleas
Principle
One might also consider kinky as pertaining more to men than women. Perhaps this is because when a woman wears her partner’s underwear, it’s seen as sexy, but if a man wears a woman’s underwear, it’s seen as kinky. Also, if a woman undresses in front of an open window, it’s seen as erotic, whereas if a man does it, it’s seen as perverted. Whatever the stereotype, one thing remains unchanged — both men and women have kinks. Readers should be mindful of necessary precautions when engaging in BDSM kinks. A safe word is always necessary. Using a word that you might not associate with sexual activity is recommended, such as “yellow” or “pineapple.” Scissors are a must in case knots, ropes, scarves, etc. are unable to be taken off; and never leave a person unattended for long. Kinks are not just for the sexually adventurous, and to paraphrase a popular expression regarding kinky behavior, “Don’t yuck someone else’s yum.” Contact “Sexually Speaking” at: sexuallyspeakingradio@gmail.com, www.facebook.com/sxlyspeaking and @ sxlyspeaking. Mellisa Estebo is a psychology sophomore and host of WRFL’s Sexually Speaking. Email opinions@ kykernel.com
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I Kentucky Kernel I 01.14.16
Editorial
Privatized UK Bookstore could harm Kennedy’s Barnes and Noble may outcompete local shop
Kennedy’s bookstore is facing a new financial threat from the UK Bookstore. In its second semester as operator of the campus bookstore, Barnes and Noble is instituting a price matching policy which will lower the cost of many of its textbooks. Over the break, the UK Bookstore sent emails announcing its new policy of price matching new, used and rental books currently offered by the online retailers of Amazon, Chegg and Barnes and Noble. “The price match program is just the latest initiative in our efforts to ensure UK students have access to the most affordable course materials to ensure academic success,” UK Bookstore General Manager Dave Lang said. The new policy will likely attract more students to shop at the UK Bookstore, which is tucked behind Memorial Coliseum on Lexington Avenue. However, this may negatively impact the sales of online retailers and Kennedy’s Wildcat Den, a local
store offering UK apparel, supplies and textbooks. As a family-owned business and historical member of the community, Kennedy’s has supplied the UK area for more than 60 years. The store is especially useful because it accepts payments from the UK Plus Account, and financial aid awards. “Joe Kennedy started this store in 1950 to compete with the UK Bookstore and offer the students a choice, with lower prices,” said Carol Behr, general manager of Kennedy’s. But the trend of corporatization of university bookstores has proved to be potentially disastrous for local competitors. According to Behr, University Book and Supply, a bookstore near EKU (owned and operated by the Kennedy family), closed last year due to declining profits. The Barnes and Noble operated bookstore at EKU outcompeted UBS, although the situation was a bit different. EKU withheld the ability for students to use their financial aid at UBS; UK
has not done the same for Kennedy’s. Regardless, we have to make sure the same result of corporatization in Richmond does not happen to Kennedy’s here in Lexington. Kennedy’s needs to prosper because of their good reputation for providing all the textbooks students need at reasonable prices. “Kennedy’s usually has all the books, and the bookstore sometimes doesn’t have all the books I need so I usually go to Kennedy’s,” said Thomas Neuteufel, an economics sophomore. Without Kennedy’s, students who do not shop online must accept prices at the UK Bookstore, regardless of price matching or new versus used. Ultimately, Kennedy’s is a part of the UK community, and students would suffer if this friendly competition between Kennedy’s and the UK Bookstore were to disappear. Email opinions@ kykernel.com
Growling for another refill ADAM PENNAVARIA Beer Columnist
Salutations, wonderful beer fans! To usher in the return of the Kernel Beer Column, I will lay down some knowledge about one of the most underutilized methods of beer drinking: growlers. Even if you don’t recognize what a growler looks like, you’ve definitely seen them before. You know those hillbilly dudes with long white beards and floppy hats who are always drinking out of brown jugs with XXX labels across them? Those jugs are called growlers. Growlers are typically 64 ounces (about five pints) bottles made out of glass with screw-on caps that can store beer for up to a week. Most breweries and pubs will fill growlers for between $10 and $30, depending on your selection. In Lexington, most of the five breweries will fill growlers, as will the Kroger liquor store near campus. According to lore, monks in the 1600s would store beer in sealed containers while they were fasting, and they would drink it instead of eating because beer is a high calorie liquid. Later on, around 1800, growlers were normalized and pubs began to sell them for patrons to take home. They were deemed “growlers” because, when the lid was removed, the released CO2 would make a rumbling noise. In the 1930s, working children would bring Prohibition-reformed jugs (much more similar to the growlers we know today) filled with cheap beer to factory workers, sometimes even picking up a pail on the way home for their parents. This activity became known as “running the growler.” Today, growlers are an excellent way to express your beer drinking personality. Growlers have become a near novelty in the last few decades, adding a certain level of flair for us brew enthusiasts. Who do you want to talk to at a party; the guy with the
PHOTOS BY ADAM PENNAVARIA I STAFF Since the 1600s, growlers have been helping beer drinkers enjoy their favorite brews in 64oz. containers. Lexington’s breweries all fill growlers of their specialty beers.
backwards visor, frosted tips, flip flops and Asian script tattoo who’s tossing back light beer in a Solo cup, or the girl with thick black glasses, a few detailed tattoos, polished boots and a beanie who’s taking regular pulls from a sticker-covered growler? I know who’d catch my attention. In summation, growlers are a time honored and hip tradition that allow beer drinkers to showcase their individual style while enjoying a substantial amount of delicious beer.
BREW COLUMN est. 2015
Head to any of Lexington’s breweries and ask to purchase one and fill it with your favorite brew. Until next time, may your glasses stay full and your taste buds stay pleased.
Cheers. Adam Pennavaria is the beer columnist of the Kentucky Kernel. Email opinions@ kykernel.com
6
I Kentucky Kernel I 01.14.16
NEWS
SPORTS
Residents warn against student neighbors
UK hopes to defeat undefeated Gamecocks
By Marjorie Kirk mkirk@kykernel.com
The first Urban County Council Meeting of 2016 voted against a change in zoning needed to build two duplexes that neighbors objected to in case it became student housing. Residents of the neighborhood in the 500 block of Pyke Road as well as other Lexington residents said they did not want the neighborhood of mostly families and older residents to turn into a heavy-traffic and party area. The proposed plan was to change the zoning from a Single Family Residential (R-1C) zone to a Planned Neighborhood Residential (R-3) zone. This change would allow Flying Dutchman Properties, LLC to build two duplexes, one 3,100 sq. feet and the other 3,600 sq. feet, in a lot previously used for smaller single family houses. “For me the privacy of the area, the seclusion, it is kind of a little hidden pocket in Lexington. It would change every-
thing,” said Will Harvey, who lives across the street from the proposed project. “That’s a lot of people for a very small area.” Harvey and his business partner have been in Lexington for six years, and the two of them went to college in the city, at Transylvania University and UK respectively. Harvey said he is aware of what the college housing culture is like on State Street and does not want that to become the culture of his neighborhood. “This precedent would totally pave the way for it to become the next State Street, or an area like that,” Harvey said. The higher density the change in zoning would allow for could increase the amount of traffic and cars parked on the street, according to Vickie Batzka, a resident of Duncan Avenue. “They will be geared to students, I’m sorry, that will be at least 16 students and maybe more if two are partnered up. That is at least 16 cars,” Batzka said. “Increasing the density of the neighborhood and increas-
ing the traffic that enormously, it makes it much more difficult just to get out of their own driveway.” Another concern for residents was the survival of some bur oak trees, which have been evaluated by arborists to be healthy and as old as 200 years. The proposed building plan was flexible and did not release the number of rooms each duplex would house or whether the duplex would require the removal of the trees in the final development plan, despite the opinion of the neighbors. Jacob Walbourn, the real estate attorney representing Flying Dutchman Properties, LLC, said that his client would try to work with the neighbors’ requests in the future. “It’s not over yet, necessarily. There is a mechanism to challenge it in court, but I have to talk to my client to see what they want to do,” Walbourn said. “There are no empty lots inside New Circle. If not my client, someone else will buy it and build something there.”
UK employees ‘step up’ to Fitbit challenge
By Caitlin Schwartz sports@kykernel.com
The No. 9 UK women’s basketball team begins a series of four of its next five games at home Thursday hosting No. 2 South Carolina at Memorial Coliseum. The battle between UK and USC will be televised nationally on SEC Network with a tip off time of 7 p.m. UK (13-1) began conference play with a tough fivepoint loss to Auburn, but came back with an explosive 25-point win over Alabama and a solid win against Georgia. South Carolina will look to keep its record of 15-0 unblemished against the Cats. The Gamecocks are one of three teams in the nation with a perfect record so far this season. South Carolina is led in scoring by All-American, 6-foot-5 sophomore A’ja Wilson with 15.6 points per game. In a close second for scoring is the two-time reigning SEC Player of the Year and 2015 Naismith Trophy Finalist, 5-foot-9 senior Tiffany Mitchell with 14.9 points per game.
She also has 37 assists and 25 steals so far this season. “We have a lot of respect for them and how talented and hard they play,” head coach Matthew Mitchell said. “We’ll have to execute well and we’ll just have to give a great, great effort.” Junior guard Makayla Epps leads the scoring for UK, averaging 16.1 points per game with 5.2 rebounds and 5.6 assists per game. Senior Janee Thompson comes in at second, averaging 12.8 points per game and 5.5 assists per game. The game will carry some extra meaning for the senior guard as it was in UK’s matchup with South Carolina that Thompson suffered the leg injury that ended her season early. “These things just take a while to fully recover from,” Mitchell said. “I think I will be more concerned of dealing with her emotions going back into that building (when they play USC later this season). That was a tough day.” Sophomore Alexis Jennings has put up three straight double-doubles for UK in
league action this season, averaging 11.3 points and 11.0 rebounds per game. She is the first player in the Mitchell era to do so starting out conference play. “I think she’s definitely trying really hard,” Mitchell said. “She just has to make certain that practice is valued and that her attitude stays positive as much as possible. She’s trying to grow in that area.” Mitchell put great emphasis on how he has to mentally prepare a young team to play against a team of veterans. Last year, UK and USC split the wins, both upsetting each other on their home court. UK gave USC its first and only conference loss of the season on Senior Day, 67-56. Thursday’s meeting will be the 56th meeting between the two teams. UK, with a 33-22 overall record against South Carolina, has won 10 of the last 12 meetings at home between the two teams. Coach Mitchell is 10-7 all-time against South Carolina. “They are our rival that we get twice each and every year,” Mitchell said. “It’s a great test for our team always.”
Competition inspires some of 8,500 participants steps a day and then after the program, we could see because they were wearing their devices, that they were averaging more like 5,700 to 7,000 steps a day.” The department also has health coaches, dieticians, exercise consultations, and tobacco cessation classes for employees, among other resources for employees who
By Marjorie Kirk news@kykernel.com
UK Health and Wellness’ first challenge of the year offered a subsidy for Fitbits and rewards of athletic gear for employees who committed to the Step Up challenge. More than 8,500 employees signed up for the challenge that began Jan. 11 and will last until Feb. 21. The challenge is part of the five year UK Strategic Plan, which includes the Live Well initiatives that Health and Wellness implements. “Myself and some other colleagues in health and wellness, we ran a pilot program last year with about 100 employees all over campus,” Wellness Specialist and Fitness Facilities Manager Carrie Davidson said. Davidson said they had an overwhelming response when they emailed employees with the opportunity. “The whole point was to increase people’s physical activity, and we found that it did,” Davidson said. “By self report, [in the pilot program] they were averaging 2,700
“My main focus is to actually be healthy. I love seeing the weight fall off.” Lisa A. Brown
Director of Student and Multicultural Affairs
want to begin eating healthier and exercising. “I actually started last May changing my eating habits and eating healthier so I started to lose weight,” Director of Student and Multicultural Affairs Lisa A. Brown said. “And then with this challenge, I’m not the
type of person that would go to the gym, but I can certainly walk. So, changing my eating habits and then complementing that with the walking will help me to stay healthier.” Competition among faculty is one of the motivations Davidson noticed would spur employees to participate and improve their physical activity. “I like the competition ... being able to compete against other coworkers,” Brown said. “I have a sister who actually works here on campus in the administration building so she got a Fitbit. She didn’t do the challenge, but I think I’m going to beat her.” Brown said she hopes this challenge will be a continuation of her previous efforts to improve her health. “I started the challenge like a month before because I wanted to try to build up to get to the 10,000 steps,” Brown said. “My main focus is to actually be healthy and I love seeing the weight fall off me. (To) have more energy would be another reason why I wanted to participate in the challenge.”
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PHOTO BY HUNTER MITCHELL I STAFF No. 2 South Carolina will likely put up a tough fight against the No. 9 UK team. South Carolina will look to keep its 15-0 record unblemished.
01.14.16
I Kentucky Kernel I 7
LA Times
CLASSIFIEDS
daily crossword
For Rent 1-9 Bedroom Newer 2‑5BR homes. Only a few left. Near UK. Pet friendly. From $349/person. www.lexingtonhomeconsultants.com Contact James McKee at (859) 221‑7082 or jwmckeebroker@msn.com. Pre‑Leasing August 2016 ‑ 7BR/3BA House, $2,625/month plus utilities. www.patri otrentalsllc.com or 859‑433‑0996.
Joella's Hot Chicken is opening in Chevy Chase!
Walk to Campus. Houses 1‑ 6 Bedroom. Wayne Michael is now pre‑leasing 1‑6BR houses for the Fall 2016 semester. www. waynemichaelproperties.com. (859) 513‑1206.
1 Bedroom Retired gentleman has UNIQUE SEMI‑FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT in private home. Quiet neighborhood near Fayette Mall, ideal for mature student or professional. Easy access to downtown. Private entrance, pri‑ vate bath, kitchen privileges, shared laundry room. No extra charge for access to adjacent private dining / sit‑ ting area, library / den, storage room. No pets. Housekeeping available. Wi‑Fi & Cable‑ready. Curb park‑ ing. Lovable Cocker Spaniel doesn’t smoke; lovable owner does (upstairs only). Includes basic utilities. $650 / month. Non‑ refundable first / last month deposit in advance. Refund able one month security deposit. Local references, background check. Inquiries contact 859‑971‑3977 or pb faoro@twc.com UK/Chevy Chase. 1 BR, living room, kitchen and bath, one person. $675/month. All bills paid. Quiet area. (859) 539‑3306.
Attention BAHAMAS SPRING BREAK: $189 ‑ 5 days. All prices include: Round‑trip luxury party cruise. Accommodations on the island at your choice of 10 resorts. Appalachia Travel, 1‑800‑867‑5018. www.BahamaSun.com.
For Rent August rentals. 1‑6 bedrooms. Above average in quality and great landlord. Call Denise (859) 983‑0726. sillsbrothers.com Great properties for rent, walk to campus. W/D included. (859) 619‑3232. www.myuk4rent.com. Now Leasing for Fall 2016. Rates starting at $379. University Trails. 859‑258‑2039. 845 Red Mile Rd.
If you enjoy taking care of people, making them smile, and where cooking from scratch is non-negotiable for you, then we would love to hear from you!
Now Hiring all positions! $12/hour Rapid career advancement! Please apply in person at 101 Cochran Rd. or send your resume to Bruce@Joellashotchicken.com
SOUTHERN CHARM Working at Joella's is more than just a job, it's about joining a family of service focused folks who deeply understands the meaning of great service and a great meal. It's about ice cold lemonade, front porches, fried chicken, southern cooking, culture and hospitality.
For Sale You have everything Kentucky blue ‑‑ but you don’t have a blue alpaca vest. 5 men’s sizes ‑‑S, M, L, XL, XXL. Smaller sizes fit most women. Only $20.00. Call Kent ‑‑ 937‑436‑5217
Help Wanted $12/hour New Restaurant/Team members (Lexing‑ ton) Joella’s Hot Chicken is opening in Chevy Chase! 101 Cochran Rd. Now Hiring all positions!!! Rapid career advancement! Please apply in person Tuesday‑Saturday, 9 a.m. ‑ 7 p.m. or send resume to above address. If you enjoy taking care of people, making them smile, and where cooking from scratch is non‑negotiable for you, then we would love to hear from you! SOUTHERN CHARM Working at Joella’s is more than just a job, it’s about joining a family of service focused folks who deeply understands the meaning of great service and a great meal. It’s about ice cold lemonade, front porches, fried chicken, southern cooking, culture and hospitality.
Columbia Steakhouse, 2750 Richmond Rd., Now hiring lead line and grill cooks. Apply in person or phone Greg at 859‑948‑2624 or Tim 859‑268‑1666. Columbia’s downtown, 201 N. Limestone is hiring servers and bussers. Apply in person or phone 859‑253‑3135. PART‑TIME COOK NEEDED AT SMALL RETIREMENT HOME CLOSE TO CAMPUS. Experienced scratch cook needed for Satur day/Sunday, 6:30 a.m. ‑ 2:30 p.m. Back ground check, drug screen and references required. Call (859) 266‑2581.
Roommates Wanted Roommate needed. Above average in quality. Male or female. Call Denise (859) 983‑0726. sillsbrothers.com
Call 859.257.2871 to place an ad I Ads can be found at kykernel.com DEADLINE - 3 p.m. the day before publication
The Kentucky Kernel is not responsible for information given to fraudulent parties. We encourage you not to participate in anything for which you have to pay an up-front fee or give out credit card or other personal information, and to report the company to us immediately.
HOROSCOPES 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 — Accept assistance when it’s offered. A woman you love and admire gives you some great advice. You’re getting stronger today and tomorrow. Go for what you want. Use your persuasive charms. Taurus ( April 20-May 20) — Today is an 8 — Finish tasks today and tomorrow. It’s emotion versus reason. Lay low in peace and quiet. Sort, file and organize. Review old memories. You’re getting more interested in stability. Consider family obligations before agreeing to a new opportunity. Gemini ( May 21-June 20) — Today is an 8 — Share what you’re learning over the next two days. Participate with your community. Your friends are really there for you. Make sure what you build is solid. Keep your promises and exceed expectations. Cancer ( June 21-July 22) — Today is a 9 — Take on more responsibility over the next few days. Make decisions. Angels guide your actions. Revise your routine. Hold your temper, even when others don’t. Push your agenda, and plan your moves in advance. Leo ( July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is an 8 — Academic pursuits go well over the next few days. Explore a subject that fascinates you. Travel entices. Venture farther out. Have courage, and push your boundaries. Make bold discoveries. Play in your field. Ask probing questions. Virgo ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Today is a 9 — Study ways to make and keep money. Negotiate terms and strike a fair bargain. Today and
tomorrow favor financial management. Profit by knowing the facts. Maintain objectivity. Stand up for your best interests. Collaborate. Libra ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — Today is a 9 — A partner is a big help over the next two days. Take steps to correct an error. Work together to surpass an obstacle. This challenge is almost fun. Scorpio ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is an 8 — Focus on your work for the next couple of days. Let people know what you need. Defend your position. You’re brilliant now. Persuade with actions as well as words. Sagittarius ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is a 7 — The next two days are lucky for love. Join forces with someone charismatic. The more you learn, the more your self-confidence grows. Choose privacy over publicity. Make a secret rendezvous, and enjoy each other’s company. Capricorn ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is an 8 — Family comes first today and tomorrow. Go farther than expected on household projects. Prepare for an upcoming gathering. Discuss developments. Aquarius ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is a 9 — Studies and travels keep you on your toes today and tomorrow. Take the lead. Consider alternative perspectives. Discover mistakes that could change the outcome. Your courage makes the difference. Pisces ( Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is a 9 — Tap another source of revenue today and tomorrow. Business is good. Pay expenses before splurging on luxuries. Don’t deplete resources. Do a good job and increase your status. Your ideas are attracting attention. Make a shrewd move.
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I Kentucky Kernel I 01.14.16
PHOTO BY TAYLOR PENCE I STAFF
3-Point shot: UK- Auburn game preview
Jamal Murray and the UK backcourt are one of three things to watch when the Cats face off against the Auburn Tigers on Saturday.
By Josh Ellis
jellis@kykernel.com
No. 14 UK (13-3, 3-1) v. Auburn (7-8, 1-3) Tipoff: Saturday, 4 p.m., Auburn Arena, Auburn, Ala. TV: ESPN Radio: UK Radio Network Three points of emphasis for the UK-Auburn game on Saturday. Tigers struggling Auburn has lost its last three games by an average of 15 points and ranks last in the SEC and 141st in Division I for opponent points per game (77.7). The Tigers are turning the ball over at a disastrous rate, getting out-rebounded by a wide margin and struggling to score. Auburn head coach Bruce
Pearl will have to rely on junior guard Kareem Canty to carry the Tigers on Saturday. Canty is a scoring guard who is also an excellent passer — he averages 18.5 ppg (4th in SEC) and 5.7 apg (3rd in SEC). With Pearl and the Tigers needing some momentum heading into the thick of conference play, a home win over No. 14 UK would be exactly what they need to get the ball rolling in the right direction. Auburn’s best wins are over Tennessee (8-7) and Mercer (12-4). Add a UK win to their resume and the Tigers NCAA Tournament hopes won’t be totally diminished. UK backcourt rolling Tyler Ulis, Isaiah Briscoe and Jamal Murray have, for
the most part, carried UK to its last three victories. The trio are UK’s three leading scorers and combine for nearly 55 percent of UK’s 77.8 ppg. Mississippi State head coach Ben Howland
good toughness and again, the two guys that hurt us most were their two best players, Ulis and Murray,” Howland said. “They are very, very good guards and about as good of a back court as you will find in the country, like I said going into the game.” It wouldn’t be much of a surprise to see the three UK guards excel in another conference game, especially while the Cats’ big men are still battling consistency. Ulis, Briscoe and Murray are all starting to catch fire at the right time, a scary sight for future opponents. John Calipari Defending & operating the UK Head Coach pick-and-roll lauded the UK backcourt after In UK’s 18-point loss at losing 80-74 at Rupp Arena. LSU, the Cats were picked “I thought we showed some apart by the pick-and-roll. LSU
“Every day we’re doing 15 minutes of screening, just teaching them how to screen.”
Calipari here to stay
UK’s heralded coach shoots down latest NBA offer, plans to be at UK ‘for a long time’ By Anthony Crawford acrawford@kykernel.com
Every year UK brings in a top ranked recruiting class full of NBA prospects. After a rumored offer from the Brooklyn Nets this past weekend, it seems NBA executives have been overlooking UK players and are instead looking right at the head of the basketball program − John Calipari. The Hall of Fame coach has built a resume at UK that includes a national championship, four Final Fours in five years and three No. 1 overall selections in the NBA Draft. But with every final four and lottery pick, Calipari becomes more and more desirable to the movers and shakers in the NBA. The rumored offers keep coming in, and many in the Big Blue Nation fear Calipari might eventually take one in an attempt to redeem himself from one of the few blotches of his career, his failed stint with the Nets from 1996-99. The latest rumor surfaced Sunday with the Nets taking interest in Calipari. According to Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports, the current UK head coach is at the top of their lists for a replacement after firing head coach Lionel Hollins and reassigning general manager Billy King. Having received multiple offers since being at UK, Calipari is no stranger to the coaching carousel. In 2014, Calipari was offered a job from the Cleveland Cavaliers with a roster that included perhaps the greatest player of our generation in LeBron James and All-Star Kyrie Irving.
Jamal Murray building toward NBA future NBA scouts chomping at the bit after Murray starts on hot streak midway through season By Josh Ellis jellis@kykernel.com
PHOTO BY MICHAEL REAVES I STAFF Head Coach John Calipari has received multiple NBA coaching offers while at UK, the most recent being from the Brooklyn Nets.
In the summer of 2015, Calipari was approached by the Sacramento Kings. The job offer had the added bonus of being able to coach former UK standouts DeMarcus Cousins and Willie Cauley-Stein. The NBA interest in Calipari that summer didn’t stop with just the Kings. After the New Orleans Pelicans fired their head coach Monty Williams, UK’s head coach was again linked to the job opening of coaching former UK player Anthony Davis and Tyreke Evans, who played under Calipari while he was at Memphis. After it was released by league sources that it will likey take an offer of $11 millionplus a year to get his attention, Brooklyn’s offer of a ten-year, $120 million contract is the highest offer yet, but the team roster pales in comparison to past offers. The Nets currently rank second to last in the Eastern Conference, and the road to rebuilding looks to be a bumpy one with the team not having a first round draft pick until 2019.
UK, on the other hand, looks to be another super-team next year because of its recruiting class. The class includes two top five players in point guard De’Aaron Fox and shooting guard Malik Monk, and five players total in the top 30. On Monday morning Calipari tweeted this out to put the rumors to rest: “You may have heard me say this before: I absolutely have the best coaching job in sports and I plan on being at Kentucky for a long time.” With Calipari’s potentially best recruiting class on the way and the $54 million extension he signed in May, the pull to stay in Lexington could outweigh his desire of redemption in the NBA. “Anytime you can have a championship culture, anytime you can be in the hunt for championships or in this case in college in recruiting, you have one of the best jobs,” Calipari said. “You don’t have to put fans in the seats, you don’t have to raise money. Just coach basketball. It’s a great job, and one that I appreciate having and am humbled to be here.”
got basically whatever it wanted on offense because the UK defense lacked fundamentals. Since that loss on Jan. 5, every team UK has faced has gone to the pick-and role in attempt to break down the Cats’ defense and pick up some easy baskets. Head coach John Calipari has made an effort to correct that error, and said after the Mississippi State game he’s spending extra time working on it everyday in practice. “Every day we’re doing 15 minutes of screening, just teaching them how to screen,” Calipari said. “And I know you may look at that and say you guys are a Division I basketball team, and you’re spending 15 minutes a day on screening? Yes, we are, every day.”
Jamal Murray once again has NBA scouts salivating over his potential to become a fluid scorer in the NBA. Over the past three games, Murray has shot 52.3 percent (23-of-44) from the field and 90.9 percent (10-of-11) from the free throw line. He’s vastly improved his shot selection and is becoming one of UK’s most efficient scorers while carrying a 17.6 ppg average through 16 games. As of Tuesday, DraftExpress had Murray projected as the No. 9 pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. Some factors keeping the Kitchener, Ontario native from increasing his stock are explosiveness, decision making and his defense. In the Cats’ last three outings, Murray has shown improvements in all three aspects. He’s gotten into driving lanes by having a quicker first step than the defender, he’s matured his shot selection and he’s played a role in UK holding its opponents to 41 percent from the field. One of the best strides – perhaps one so big that would force scouts to downplay his weaknesses – Murray has made as the season progressed, however, is his three-point shooting. In UK’s first five games, he shot a horrendous 8-of-26 (30.7 percent). Over the Cats’ past six games, that percent-
age has skyrocketed to nearly 45 percent. Murray alone is responsible for 42 of the Cats’ 90 made threes this year. John Calipari said, after Tuesday’s win over Mississippi State, he’s altered the way his team practices shooting from behind the arc – a reason for Murray’s late success. “We’re doing a lot of different kind of shooting. Again, for (Murray), he didn’t know that he was open if a guy was in the lane running at him and he’s at the three-point line,” Calipari said. “He thought, well, I couldn’t get it off. So now we’re doing drills for our guards
ers on our scouting report,” Sword said. “They just told us to contain them, contain them two. We tried, we did what we could.” What the Bulldogs tried to do to stop Murray from scoring proved to be not nearly enough. Murray scored 22 points (including five treys) and dished three assists. According to 247Sports’ Chris Fisher, Murray’s 282 points through the first 16 games are the most by any UK player in the Calipari era. But breaking school records is not what’s driving Murray to become a better player. Calipari buying the team Powerball lottery tickets is. Calipari explained he had each player put in $2 and then used their money to buy a lotJamal Murray UK Guard tery ticket for them. He asked where there are guys running each player what they would do from you at the lane but you’re if they won the money, but went open at the three. Get it off.” on to say none of those tickets “If you can’t get that shot would be the winning ticket. off, you can’t play basketball. “But then I said you already You’re really not a basketball own a ticket – you,” Calipari player.” said, emphasizing to his team Murray has proved he is in- each guy will go as far as he deed a basketball player. And decides to go in life. That lotas his 21.3 ppg average over the tery speech pointed Murray in last three games would suggest, the right direction. he’s a pretty good one. Missis“I took in what he said. It sippi State’s Craig Sword, who made a lot of sense and it put had the task of guarding Tyler things into perspective about Ulis and Murray throughout the what I want to do with my cagame, would agree. reer and what direction I want “I feel like (Murray and to go in,” Murray said. “I just Ulis) are some great play- have to go out and do it.”
“It made a lot of sense, and it put into perspective about what I want to do with my career and what direction I want to go in.”