February 4, 2016
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Campus Rec to
bulk up
Page 3
Adam Lee cashes out Ashley Street Station
Page 6
Hilliard dreams of professional play Page 8
Students react to Michael’s Law Page 3
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February 4, 2016
DO YOU
The Spectator | www.vsuspectator.com
Announcements Black History Month Events February marks Black History Month. Throughout the month, there will be a variety of events, which kicks off tomorrow at 6:30 when VSU’s Black History Month Committee presents “History Through Our Eyes: Celebrating Black Excellence Then and Now.” The presentation will be held in the Magnolia Room in the University Center. For a list of full events, head to vsuspectator.com to read Jada Dukes’ story.
Valdosta to house Trump headquarters Kenzie Kesselring
OPINIONS EDITOR klkesselring@valdosta.edu Valdosta voters could add a bump for Trump. The reality-star-turned-Republican candidate is setting up shop in Valdosta. The headquarters will be located on North Valdosta Road and will open on Feb. 6 at 11 a.m. with a free public event. The grand opening of the center will be run by Lowndes County Trump Manager Barbra Schmader. Despite Trump’s 4 percent loss in the Iowa caucus Monday
night to Ted Cruz, the candidate plans to carry on and continue his campaign. However, what Cruz is calling a “Trumper tantrum” ensued on Twitter Wednesday after the loss. Cruz was the first 2016 presidential candidate to establish a headquarters in Valdosta back in December, according to the Valdosta Daily Times. Now the Trump vs. Cruz war can rage on in South Georgia. Georgia’s primary election will be held on March 1, and as of Feb. 3, Trump is projected to win the state on the Republican side according to Real Clear Politics.
SUMMER JOBS
University of Florida 4-H Summer Program Positions start at $220.00 per week with room and board included. Work at one of the University of Florida’s three recreational overnight camps located throughout the state. Staff have coop no cabin responsibilities and most weekends off. University of Florida 4-H Summer Program Staff are involved in teaching kayaking, team sports, arts/crafts, archery/air rifle, swimming and STEM educational classes. We are looking for ENERGETIC, CREATIVE & MATURE persons to help lead these youth at our facilities.
Application Deadline is Next Friday, February 12 Apply online at: florida4h.org/camps
IFAS Extension/4H Youth Development is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY INSTITUTION
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Tanked: Gas prices extremely low in Valdosta, lowest since 2009 Julie Jernigan
STAFF WRITER jvjernigan@valdosta.edu You’ve probably heard that gas prices have, well…tanked. The last time gas prices were this low was in 2009, and many VSU students were just starting high school. According to GasBuddy, on Sunday, Valdosta’s lowest price was $1.64, which is up seven cents from last week, but all stations are still under $2. Georgia’s average gas price on Sunday was $1.75, and the average national price was $1.79 according to the American Automobile Association. The cause for the recent drop in prices is as simple as supply and demand. The U.S. used to purchase oil from the Middle East, but now the Asian markets are selling their oil cheaper. Now, the Middle East and the Asian markets are competing with each other to maintain the lowest price, yet the demand for it is down. Today’s vehicles are more energy efficient or rely solely on electricity, and now Americans
$1.6 gall 4/ on
don’t see the need to buy any. With everyone thinking more environmentally friendly, other forms of transportation like Über have become a popular way to cut out air pollution. “Gas is something we still need, so even if the prices rise or drop, people are still going to buy it, but do I appreciate it? Yes,” said Joanna Henderson, a psychology major. “As a person who goes home a lot, I think it’s great, because now I have this extra money that I can put toward something greater,” said Martina Strickland, accounting major. But with anything good, there is always the bad. According to the New York Times, BP, Royal
Dutch Shell, and Chevron have already had to make huge payroll cuts in order to save, while other small companies are having to lower dividends. NY Times also reports that 40 companies have gone into bankruptcy protection. Another problem to worry about is further air pollution, as everyone is buying and using more than usual. If this price plunge is sticking around for a while, then less people are buying energy efficient cars and putting less effort into energy conservation technology. In a Denver Post story on the plummeted gas prices, senior GasBuddy petroleum analyst Patrick DeHaan said that this change is definitely a temporary one. “Refiners have already begun some winter maintenance, and while supply of winter gasoline is abnormally high, once that inventory is liquidated, I fully expect gasoline prices to march higher,” said DeHaan.
Shuttle program to offer assistance for those in need Kelsey Dickerson
STAFF WRITER kedickerson@valdosta.edu A new public transit system is coming to Valdosta this year that could help students without access to cars get off campus and into the city. The route mapped out by the new shuttles will include nine stops but won’t come directly to VSU. JD Dillard, coordinator of the Transit and Mobility Department of the Southern Georgia Regional Commission (SGRC), notes that the closest bus stop to students living on campus is between north campus and Woodrow Wilson Drive. The walk to the bus stop may be worth it for students who want better access to the mall and downtown Valdosta, or those who want to pick up a few groceries
at Wal-Mart other than during the scheduled weekly bus from campus. Dillard does say that comments “from riders and community partners” can play a role in determining other routes and stops, meaning that the shuttle could become more accessible to students if ridership numbers went up. There will be no cost for the use of the shuttle, though students who wish to ride must fill out the consumer registration form provided on SGRC’s website. Dillard says that money from the service has come from the Department of Human Service’s “New Freedom” funds which are used to help citizens with disabilities better integrate into the work force and participate in the community. Because the shuttles are meant for members of the community
who require assistance to get to their jobs or to town during the workday, the system may not be worth much use to student; who often have friends with cars and who usually attend class during the operating hours of the new shuttle. “They (Valdosta State) kind of already do that. On Thursdays the bus takes you to the mall,” said Richard Brito, a freshman business major. The shuttle system is being put into place by the Transit and Mobility Department of the Southern Georgia Regional Commission (SGRC) and the Georgia DHS. A bus will run every hour MonFriMonday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday’s from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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February 4, 2016
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Campus Rec Center gets facelift this semester Tiarra Bell
Staff Writer tcbell@valdosta.edu The Department of Campus Recreation has plans to repurpose the upstairs area to assist different students. The circuit room, which is located upstairs on the left side near the restrooms, will serve as a CrossFit training area. “We discovered the circuit room doesn’t see as much use as we would like,” Shawn Phippen, associate director of campus rec, said. “We haven’t really done a major facelift in quite a while upstairs. We added a fitness testing lab a couple of years ago.” The Campus Recreation received recommendations and encouragement from students suggesting that they find alternative options such as functional training or CrossFit type of equipment. Currently, there is no gear that satisfies those needs. “It was based on student demand and information that we collect in surveys. We felt that the students would be very receptive in doing this,” Phippen said. Renovations in the area started this week. To begin the remodeling process, the equipment must first be moved out in order to start painting. After the equipment is removed, contractors will come in to install specialized flooring, because Olympic lifting will be allowed in that area. After this is completed, the company will move the new equipment in and it’ll be open. The Department of Campus Rec. is working with several VSU students from interior design to help decide which colors are ap-
propriate. In addition to the group fitness classes that are held downstairs, the circuit room will also house small fitness classes. “We’re hoping that we could teach a couple of classes up there as well, but on a smaller scale,” Phippen said. “Maybe eight to 12 people just because the area is a little smaller.” When a class is not in session, the estimated capacity will be between 15 and 20 people. Several staff members will be trained to run the course. Personal trainers and group fitness instructors will get additional training on how to run a class as well. The circuit’s room equipment will include power racks, an octagon, battle ropes, sand bags, punching bags, tires, a landmine, and monkey bars. “We really want to appeal to a different group of students that we don’t really have anything for right now. That’s really what we’re trying to do--have a segment that we’re missing out on, essentially. We really want to be able to capture the students and encourage them,” Phippen said. The Campus Rec employees estimate that the renovations should be completed before spring break. They estimate that it will take three to four weeks to get everything up and running. The area will be closed during that time period. Phippen says that student affairs and students are looking forward to the transformation. “We’ve had massive support from the president and vice president of student affairs to get
Georgia governor signs in new law Jyrell Wynn correspondent
jdwynn@valdosta.edu
It's Friday night and time to party with friends, but don't forget to bring your parents. This will be the reality for many underage college students, as Georgia passed Michael's Law in July. Michael’s Law is also referred to as House Bill 152. This new law will require minors to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian when attending a bar. It will also require bartenders and bouncers to be 21 or older to work in the bar. Michael's Law came from the death of Georgia Southern University freshman Michael Gatto who was killed by a bar bouncer in a bar altercation. Gatto died from the assault at Rude Rudy’s. Rude Rudy’s was closed in September of 2014 after Gatto’s death in August. This new law brings big changes for collegiate bar goers
under the age of 21. With the law coming to Valdosta, many Valdosta State students have weighed in on the law and what that means for the bar scene here, particularly in Remerton. Simeon Palmer, a 21-year-old junior geosciences major, said that when it comes to bar safety, he believes they are pretty safe. "The only time when stuff happens is when you leave the bar," Palmer said. "At 18, you shouldn't need a parent to do anything because you are an adult under the law," said Wesley Cook, junior computer science major. According to Michael’s Law, a bar is any retailer where alcohol sales derive 75 percent of total annual gross revenue. Disciplinary action from violating the law includes a fine up to $750 for each violation and revoking the bar’s license to serve alcohol.
Tiarra Bell/THE SPECTATOR
The Campus Recreation Center’s circuit room will be replaced with a cross fit training room within two months. All current equipment will be removed from the circuit room.
that done. We’re pretty excited,” Phippen said. “We’re hopeful that it’s going to make a big difference and that’s what we care about. We’ve had a lot of positive responses from students, especially after they heard we were looking into it.” The Campus Rec employees are also excited for the changes to come. “I think this is going to be great,” said Greg Knaus, a graduate assistant at the rec. “I believe a lot in Olympic lifts and right now we don’t have a lot of access
to that so it’ll give more opportunities for that.” Anne Baldwin feels that the makeover over will offer more versatility in the rec. “It’ll cater to more people instead of the weightlifting,” Baldwin said. “I think sometimes girls are intimidated by the equipment so it might get more girls to come in.” However, some students aren’t aware of the transition that’s taking place. “I didn’t know about the changes,” senior Caleb Marshall
said. “I think it’s pretty cool. I know with playing sports, you have Olympic lifts with more complex movements so it’ll be a full body workout as opposed to isolation stuff that’s here. So I think it’s pretty good. You’ll get the best of both worlds.” Along with the changes inside the rec, there will be changes outside the rec as well. Another project in progress is transforming the intramural fields from grass to turf. Students can anticipate the new turf to be in place by fall of 2016.
Be a Blazer Abroad
Phenix Culbertson & Nan Smith Fall 2015 semester exchange Spain, Vigo University via International Student Exchange Program
“Studying abroad in Spain for a semester was such an exciting experience to be able to get a glimpse into European life.The Spaniards are friendly & accommodating people & they always went the extra mile to be helpful. This experience opened my eyes up to life outside of the U.S. & has cultivated in me an interest to continue traveling & learning about other cultures. I sincerely urge students to experience studying abroad at least once in their college careers because it is a great opportunity for both personal development & making lifelong friends.” - Nan Smith Phenix Culbertson (left)
studyabroad@valdosta.edu valdosta.edu/studyabroad/
229-333-7410
• Junior • Criminal Justice Major • Spanish Minor
Nan Smith (right)
• Junior • Spanish Major
Enhance the Value of Your College Degree! Program lengths are from 2 weeks to a year. ANY major can study ANYWHERE in the world at ANYTIME. Fundraisers Available! HOPE applies to tuition
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February, 4 2015
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Rant and Rave of the week Our point of view...
Black History Month here to stay It’s February, the one month of the year where African Americans are able to celebrate their culture and history. Unfortunately, it’s the only time of the year that public schools focus on black history in the classroom. It’s unfortunate that throughout history, the only topics students are taught about black Americans is the civil rights movement and a kid-friendly version of slavery. Most people know about Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman, Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King, but do they know about Maya Angelou, Thurgood Marshall, or Sojourner Truth? Black History Month is extremely important. It is about celebrating people in history who have contributed and overcome many obstacles; people who just happen to be black. It’s about embracing, coming together, and educating others on the past individuals who have paved the way for African Americans. It’s about educating young minds on the history of the United States, not just what textbooks in elementary school taught them. Every month celebrating a cause, movement, race, gender and religion is important. Recently, actress Stacey Dash made a comment saying we should get rid of black history month, award shows, and any other activities that celebrate only black culture. This comment lit a fire throughout
the Internet. There were even comments on creating a White History month. The typical answer that follows “why is there no white history month?” is “because every month is white history month.” There’s no need to celebrate a white history month because the majority of information taught in schools is about white history. There are other cultures that make up the United States that need to be celebrated as well. The Spectator staff believes both ideas of getting rid of Black History Month and adding a White History Month are ridiculous. It should not feel like a crime to celebrate certain months of the year that are dedicated to minorities, races and other cultures. Our concern is that people have something to say about Black History Month, but say nothing about the other various months in the year dedicated to minorities. For example, during National Hispanic Heritage Month, or National American Indian Heritage Month, there doesn’t seem to be a problem. It is important to not only honor groups and minorities during certain times of the year, but to honor and remember all history, all year long. We are a melting pot filled with many different cultures, why can’t we embrace them all?
This editorial was written by a member of the editorial staff and expresses the general opinion of The Spectator.
Head to www.vsuspectator.com to read Jada Dukes’ article, Horrors of the Flint Water Crisis Editorial Staff Editor-in-Chief: Jordan Barela Managing Editor: Tatyana Phelps Opinions Editor: Kenzie Kesselring College Life Editor: Mayah Cantave Sports Editor: Gabe Burns Photo Editor: Kyle Dawson Web Editor: Kayla Stroud Multimedia Editor: Darian Harris Social Media Editor: Tyra Mills Copy Editor: Zenobia Harris
Dr. Staton responded to the graduation petition by saying it “seeks to manufacture a controversy where none actually exists.” Dr. Staton, you do not get to decide what is and isn’t a controversy. You do not get to tell students how to feel about these changes. We’ve made our feelings quite clear and we expect them to be met with respect and consideration, especially since our input was never truly considered in the first place. For you to respond to our petition in that way only further implies that you don’t really care about VSU students. Please, prove me wrong and start working with us students on these issues rather than invalidating our thoughts and actions. Stay woke, VSU. (Submitted under the alias ‘Graduating Students’)
Need to rant or rave? Submitt your own through The Spectator app!
Breast-feeding, nothing but natural Julia Rodriguez
Asst. Opinions Editor jlrodriguez@valdosta.edu Women are taking a stand to defend their natural right to feed their children. Sick and tired of running off to feed their children and hating to see them go hungry when unable to escape the crowd, more mothers are openly breastfeeding in public. Many mothers have, for years, gone through the struggle of running to a dirty bathroom or to the car in order to breast-feed their infant. Some mothers would use a concealing cloth to publicly breast-feed but often the infant will refuse to latch when covered, causing them to bite or not eat at
all. Not wanting to deal with the struggle any longer, women breast-feeding in public is becoming more common. Yet, the public has not been so accepting of it. Breast-feeding is one of the most natural things a woman can do but because a portion of one of the woman’s breasts is exposed, she is ridiculed for be indecent. “I have had people comment on photos of mine while breastfeeding in public asking why I didn’t just go to the car or use a blanket or why I am sharing such a photo,” says Katia Poznyak, a healthy lifestyle vlogger, “…I have every right to breast-feed in public and the more it is done, shared, and spoken about, the
more people will see it as a norm and become accepting to it.” When those who ridicule public breast-feeding are asked why they have such an opinion, they often reply with the explanation that breasts are a sexual organ and so should be concealed as such. Yet, many of these same people have nothing to say about shirts with drooping neck lines or Rihanna’s completely transparent dress at the CFDA awards. “America needs to stop sexualizing breasts and breast-feeding and start normalizing it and accepting it,” responds Poznyak, “After all, all mothers are protected under law to be able to breast-feed in public.”
‘Whiteness History Month’ better than it appears
Miles Brown
Staff Writer milbrown@valdosta.edu As an African American male reading a proposed project from Portland Community College called “Whiteness History Month: Context, Consequences and Change” disgusts and confuses me. Portland Community College is one of the largest post-secondary institutions in Oregon, serving around 90,000 full-time and parttime students. After finding out exactly what the project is, I relax and begin to understand exactly why this project was created. The Whiteness History month is a multidisciplinary, district wide education process examining race and racism through exploration of
the construction of whiteness, its origins and heritage. The project is scheduled to be enacted in April 2016. The project seeks to inspire innovative and practical solution to community issues and social problems that stem from racism. Although the purpose and mission for the project is progressive in a sense, the name of the project takes all attention away from its mission. Using the term “Whiteness” makes the project seem less serious. Not only is it improper, but upon examining the article I found the name “Whiteness History Month” to be a knock off of Black History Month. The project wants to improve campus climate, student veterans/ success and aims to teach and improve the community. In order to fully or effectively accomplish
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these goals a month of history on the culture of both white and black people in society is not enough. A school semester or a permanent organization/committee that can carry out these goals may have been a better way to advocate for change. The project aims to explain whiteness and how it is socially constructed. My initial impression of the project was proven wrong and I learned something new. However I believe a different name for the project would strengthen its credibility and allow others to understand its message. I am happy there are colleges that have taken steps to improve race relations in the community and hopefully more ideas like this will continue to help create less racism.
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Did You
February 4, 2016
KNOW?
According to didyouknow.org, Facebook has more than 1.3 billion users; about 100 million of those are fake profiles.
Keep cable, or jump in the stream?
Television is more dependable
With all of today’s streaming, people may wonder if they should cancel their cable subscriptions. While streaming ASST. ADVERTISING MANAGER sources like Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime are great, mkbitters@valdosta.edu there are a few concrete reasons to keep your cable. Cable television allows you to watch certain channels such as ESPN, MLB, NFL, E!, and news networks. If you can’t live without these channels, I suggest that you keep cable. Cable is also easier to fix during something like a huge storm. Cable customer service has been bashed in the past for being difficult; however, if you experience connection problems, there’s only one number you need to call. If you experience connection problems while streaming you’ll either need to call your Internet provider, streaming source, or device support. Calling any customer service line is the worst so that is reason enough to keep cable. Another pro is that cable chooses the shows for you. All you have to do is choose a network and you can watch a variety of shows all day and night. Watching cable, you’re more likely to stumble upon new shows and like them. You don’t have to choose a show to watch each time your current series, episode or movie is over, because cable continuously plays shows. Another perk to having cable is that you can watch shows the same time they air. This is a huge bonus, because you can stay up-todate on all your favorite shows and you don’t have to wait for them to be released to streaming sources. Thanks to cable, viewers can watch football, basketball and baseball games the same time they’re happening. Viewers can also watch things like the Victoria’s Secret fashion show and celebrity award shows like the Golden Globes, Grammy’s, AMA’s, and VMA’s without missing a thing. With cable you don’t need Wi-Fi, so you can watch TV and go on Facebook, Snapchat or other social media cites without slowing down the pace of your show or decreasing the quality of the picture. You also don’t have to wait for things to load. Sometimes, movies and TV shows can take forever to load and by the time they’re finally done, you have no more time to watch them. Waiting for things to load is annoying. Finally, cable companies will do a lot to get and keep your business. Because of the decrease in cable subscribers, cable companies offer better deals than ever before such as giving subscribers NFL tickets and discounted prices. If you’re still not convinced to keep your cable, do some research for yourself. Call your cable provider or go online and check out the packages they offer.
Meaghan Bitters
Streaming gives many more options
In the year 2016, it is crazy that people still spend tons of money on cable television and cable boxes when everything STAFF WRITER can be streamed via the Internet. Streaming, also known as carwilliams@valdosta.edu “Internet-based television,” is on the rise. With major networks like ESPN, HBO, Nickelodeon, and CBS making all their shows available on the Internet with only a small monthly fee and no contract, no equipment rental and no unreliable customer service. There’s never been a better time to kick your cable box to the curb. In layman’s terms, streaming is lit. Getting rid of an extra cable and/or satellite bill seems like the move when you can watch a whole season of a show from basically any device that allows you to connect to the Internet. Of course, the only thing that would stop you from streaming would be weak connection. It’s important to have strong connection when it’s time for “Netflix and chill.” Streaming hours peak when everyone is in from class around 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. It is important to have a strong connection when you’re procrastinating on a paper and want to watch the game at the same time. Buffering is to streaming is a thunderstorm is to a good satellite connection. It is vital that your ISP gives you a decent amount of internet at least 10MBps for a small family. Netflix takes up at least 5MPbs and costs $8 a month so, give or take, you may need the extra to make sure it loads up and does not buffer. Most streaming services can be costly, but given all the different discounts and “ways around the system,” they could be very affordable. To enjoy a good day of streaming: make sure Adobe’s Flash Player is updated, close out or finish all downloads, change/lower the video quality, and instead of going wireless, hook up directly to the router. These have all proved to be successful. Streaming is very clutch and reliable. Comcast has become the first cable provider to switch to $15 a month streaming services. This is trendsetting and allows those who never planned on getting cable anyway to have a cheaper route to stream television and movies. Xfinity Stream is basically hand-in-hand with HBO Now, available on most Apple products. This is not Comcast’s first time beating out competition into a new market. They were the first company to offer an internet and HBO bundle. The only thing wrong with Xfinity Stream is that it is only available to Comcast customers. “We want to make ordering Stream as easy as buying a song online,” Matt Strauss, EVP and G.M. of video services at Comcast, said in announcing the new service Monday.
Carlius Williams
“Getting rid of an extra cable and/or satellite bill seems like the move when you can watch a whole season of a show from basically any device that allows you to connect to the internet.”
Weekly Weird: Weed affects verbal memory?
For years, the argument that marijuana doesn’t harm the body in any way has been going around. However, new research finds that, despite becoming legal in some states, marijuana may not be as innocent as everyone thinks. STAFF WRITER A recent study published in a JAMA Internal Medicine article finds that over time, long-term marijuana users may suffer a decline in their verbal tcbell@valdosta.edu memory, which is the ability to remember certain words. The research was conducted by surveying more than 5,000 subjects of the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults who were 18 to 30 years of age between 1985 and 1986. Before taking cognitive tests, subjects were interviewed about their usage following up 25 years after the initial start of the process. Results showed that the subjects who smoked marijuana on an everyday basis for five years or more had lower verbal memory scores compared to those who didn’t smoke or who smoked less regularly. On average, the research showed one out of two people remembered one word fewer from a list of fifteen words. Although marijuana usage is connected to a decrease in verbal memory, heavy marijuana use did not become evident to affect other cognitive functions such as mental processing speed, focus and planning. Researchers can’t figure out exactly why marijuana use affects verbal memory, but they think it is linked to THC, a chemical responsible for most of marijuana’s psychological effects. Because it may affect the way information is processed in the hippocampus region, the center of memory, emotion, and nervous system of the brain.
Tiarra Bell
Dear First Year Students, Check out this week’s
Web Exclusive:
Fandoms on Social Media and the hysteria that follows
AVOID SUMMER/FALL COURSE REGISTRATION HOLDS! COMPLETE THE MANDATORY HAVEN & ALCOHOL EDU TRAINING! 2) Search Here
DEADLINES FOR COMPLETION Part One – February 19th Part Two – March 29th
LOCATE THESE TRAININGS ON YOUR MYVSU HOME PAGE: 1. CLICK THE SMALL GEAR AT THE TOP RIGHT OF THE PANELS 2. SEARCH FOR EVERFI.
VSU Office of Social Equity
February 4, 2016
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KNOW?
DID YOU
Page 6
According to Uberfacts, a study finds that imagining an encouraging audience or the sound of applause can be helpful in reducing stage fright.
Adam Lee cashes out Ashley Street Station Mayah Cantave Kyle Dawson COLLEGE LIFE EDITOR PHOTO EDITOR
mcantave@valdosta.edu, kdkawson@valdosta.edu
Two years after being cast as the man in black in the Tony Award-winning musical Million Dollar Quartet, singer and performer Adam Lee stopped through Valdosta on Friday during his The Cashin’ Out Tour. Dressed in all black with slick hair and a leather jacket, Lee thrashed through his original songs with his gritty vocals and powerful stage presence evoking a mixture of country outlaws and punk rockers as if Waylon Jennings and Joey Ramone had a child with a voice as deep as Jamey Johnson. His music took listeners on journeys through rundown bars, cheap motels and lonesome trains. He painted pictures of lost love, wild nights and smoky tap rooms all while keeping the crowd entertained with lovely melodies and technical guitar play. Lee said that he loves coming to Valdosta, and he cannot wait to be back at Ashley Street Station in the future.
Coloring isn’t just for kids anymore Olivia Studdard
I was never a big
fan of coloring inside STAFF WRITER oastuddard@valdosta.edu the lines. I preferred to
scribble my heart out until my crayons broke the paper tore and I felt the piece was colorful enough to fill the blank spots left on the refrigerator by the magnets and old family photos. For the kid in your heart, as well as the anxiety in your soul, there is finally a solution better than buying Hello Kitty coloring books from Dollar Tree. There are now coloring books made for adults. Adult coloring books are already sweeping the nation. It seems like every store is popping up with their own version of the new trend, each similar yet different. Some are filled with elaborate patterns and others with animals containing grand designs. Coloring books designed with curse words written inside the patterns have been made to release stress through the
tip of a coloring tool. Research has found that not only does coloring help lower stress and anxiety levels, it can also give you a quick mood boost. As every college kid knows, everyday life is filled with anxiety and stress about deadlines and money and general college life. After giving adult coloring books a try to see if they were really as great as all the reviews were saying, I found adult coloring to be a truly great experience. At first, I felt the stress build up, feeling the need for perfection, for every spot to be a particular color. However, after a few minutes of focusing on the book and blocking out all outside distractions, I found the peace and calm these books were promoting. There is freedom in the process. There is freedom in trying. It is a lot of work to free a mind of anxiety, but it can never hurt to scribble your heart out in a coloring book in the process.
Students and faculty talk racial relations at event Meaghan Bitters
ASST. ADVERTISING MANAGER mkbitters@valdosta.edu
Sociology Anthropology Geography / Geology History Philosophy Li Literature Political Science
Courageous Conversations is an event, hosted by VSU Student Planning Committee, where students and faculty get together to discuss racial problems in society. Last Thursday, was the first event of the semester called, “The Path of our Narratives.” The event began with students sharing their personal experiences with racism. The first speaker talked about the importance of discussing controversial topics surrounding race. Another speaker, who moved from England, talked about her experience of choosing where to live in Valdosta. She said that white people would tell her to “choose a house in the county,” because “Valdosta City Schools are the black schools.” Other things that were discussed included phenom-
enology and racial steering, which is a type of racism where people don’t recommend living in certain areas because of the primary race of the area. It’s basically modern day segregation of neighborhoods. The point of this event is to shed light on the racism that occurs daily, despite the misconception that racism isn’t still alive in 2016. The audience was able to respond and share their own experiences and opinions after the speakers were finished. Some people mentioned that we need to make our conversations active and do as much as we can in the community to educate people on why racism is not okay. If you’re interested in learning and talking about racial issues in today’s society, there are a few events coming up that you may attend: “Hands Up, Don’t Shoot” on Feb. 25, “Winning the Race” March 24, and “Blinded by the White” April 21 at 7p.m. in Bailey Science Center Auditorium.
KNOW?
Super Bowl features clash of new school vs. old school Austin Wells
STAFF WRITER amwells@valdosta.edu With the calendar turning to February and winter starting to walk out the door, it can only be time for one event: the Super Bowl. This year is Super Bowl 50, and with it comes two teams that traveled different paths to the greatest game of the year. The first team is a team that almost no one is surprised to see make it and has not had much trouble all season. The Carolina Panthers have had a dominant season at 17-1 (2-0 in the playoffs). Their only blemish was a week 16 loss to the rival and close-to-home Atlanta Falcons. The Panthers have been a very good defensive team, with their defense being the sixth best in terms of yards and points allowed. Despite their great defensive play, it has been the offense that’s stolen the show. Although the Panthers are only 11th in total yards per game, the Panthers are the top-ranked scoring team in the
NFL this season, averaging over 31 points per game. This can be partly accredited to the defense, which has been able to create turnovers frequently in games. The main star of the show is Carolina’s quarterback Cam Newton, who has not only been able to lead the Panthers to their second ever Super Bowl appearance, but is the overwhelming favorite to win league MVP as well. With Newton on offense and a starstudded defense for the Panthers, it is hard not to choose them as the favorites, especially after a 49-15 beat down of the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC Championship game. On the other side is a team that has had their fair share of ups and downs. The 14-4 (2-0 in the playoffs) Denver Broncos are heading to their record-tying eighth Super Bowl appearance; and the biggest storyline with them is the guy they have playing quarterback. After struggling the first part of the season and then ultimately dealing with injury, all-time passing yards and passing touchdowns
leader Peyton Manning was benched for a promising prospect in Brock Osweiler, who had spent the past few years backing up for Manning. When Manning was healthy again, it seemed that Osweiler would keep the starting job. In week 17, after the offense had struggled against the lowly Chargers, Manning was brought out to jumpstart the team, and ultimately led them to victory. Since then, the best overall defense in the NFL assisted Manning in defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers and then upsetting the favored New England Patriots in the AFC Championship. The Broncos have a chance to finish what has been a roller coaster season in what could be Peyton Manning’s final game. Who will come out on top? Will the one-loss Panthers continue their dominant ways and prevail, or will the defensively dominant Broncos be able to finish their season (and the possible end of Peyton Manning’s career) with a Super Bowl victory?
PREDICTIONS FROM THE STAFF FOR SUPER BOWL 50: Austin Wells:
It’d be nice to see Cam Newton win his first Super Bowl, but he’s young and I’m sure will have more chances to win it. This is probably Peyton’s last ride, and I feel like he’ll make the most of it and come out on top. Not to mention that Denver defense is just too good. Broncos defeat the Panthers in Super Bowl 50, 24-20.
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Gabe Burns:
The quarterbacks are grabbing the headlines, but this game comes down to the two best defenses in the league. Von Miller and crew will be able to get to Cam Newton, while Peyton Manning will be a sitting duck against Carolina’s interior rush. As a Tampa Bay fan, I want to pick Denver. As a football fan, it is hard to envision a Panthers loss. Dab on ‘em, Cam. Carolina: 23, Denver: 16.
Kyle Dawson:
Cam Newton’s versatility at quarterback will be a key component in the Carolina Panther’s attempt to beat the Denver Broncos on Sunday. If he can get on the edge and use his legs as well as the play action pass, the Panthers will score early and often. I think that Luke Keuchly and company will stop the run and make it harder for Peyton Manning to catch up, but he’ll make a valiant effort. Panthers: 34 Broncos: 28.
With a victory on Sunday, Cam Newton could become the first quarterback in NFL history to win a Heisman, NCAA national championship, NFL MVP and the Super Bowl.
VSU baseball opens the season winning two of three Aldean Starr
STAFF WRITER astarr@valdosta.edu The Valdosta State baseball team has started the season winning two of three heading into this Saturday’s match-up with Wingate. The Blazers started the season on the road last Saturday afternoon against the #15 North Georgia Nighthawks at Bob Stein Stadium in Dahlonega, Georgia. The two teams played a doubleheader and split the match-ups. In the first game, the Blazers suffered a close loss in a 4-3 game. The contest went back-andforth with the Blazers taking a lead in the top of the sixth inning but that advantage was soon lost in the next inning. The Nighthawks put a stamp on the game with their final run in the bottom of the eighth via a wild pitch by the Blazers’ Roman Donofro. The Blazers were able to pull off a win in the second game. There was a total of four home runs hit in the second game and the final score was tallied at 10-5. The Blazers were in control for most of the contest, but the Nighthawks went on a small run in the bottom of the fifth when they
scored four runs that cut the Blazers lead to 6-5. But the blazers were able to pull away by scoring at least a run in each of the last three innings and were able to hold the Nighthawks scoreless after the fifth. VSU kept the momentum going when it came home to Billy Grant Field to play against the Albany State Golden Rams on Tuesday. The battle was pretty close and the Blazers survived a run from the Rams in which Albany State took a 2-1 lead in the top of the sixth. VSU took the lead back in the bottom of the sixth and pulled away in the eighth with a home run by outfielder Dalton Duty which capped the Blazers’ 4-2 win. Catcher Tyler York and pitcher/ designated hitter Jaykob Graham have each been incredible in the first few games. York is batting .556, has one home run and three runs batted in. Graham is batting .385 with three runs batted in and also has a win in the pitchers’ column. The Blazers return to the diamond this weekend at Billy Grant Field. After hosting Wingate on Saturday, VSU challenges Wingate and Florida Tech in a Sunday double-header.
Blazers end skid before starting two-game road trip
Josh Lemons takes a jumper in VSU’s 74-70 Darian Harris/THE SPECTATOR win over Lee. The Blazers take to the road to face Mississippi College on Thursday.
What’ is Your most memorable Advising Experience?? VSU Cross Country 5k Fundraiser: Saturday, Feb. 13 $15 entry fee All proceeds go to VSU XC
The National Academic Advising Association Wants To Hear From VSU students! Participant Information Will Be Confidential. Individual Responses Will Be Compiled & Studied As A Group.
This Is Your Opportunity To Voice Your Opinions!
THURSDAY, FEB 11TH • Heritage Room, 3rd Floor • Student Union 10:30-11:30 am 1:30-2:30 pm 3:00- 4:00 pm 4:30-5:30 pm
Tell your story
Make A difference Need more info? contact arroberson@valdosta.edu
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EJ Hilliard prepares for NFL opportunity
Former VSU quarterback participated in the Dream Bowl on January 18 Gabe Burns
Sports Editor gcburns@valdosta.edu As the great Walt Disney once said, “All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them.” For Valdosta State quarterback EJ Hilliard, that dream in pursuit is an opportunity in the NFL. He got his first taste of such when the signal caller competed in the Dream Bowl in Virginia Beach on Jan. 18. The Dream Bowl is an all-star extravaganza for division II, division III and FCS players. It is a four-day event that features a combine and exhibition game that allows NFL and CFL scouts to evaluate talent up-close. The competitors were divided into two teams: the Patriots and the Crusaders. Hilliard was one of three quarterbacks for the Patriots. “The experience was great,” said Hilliard. “I enjoyed the overall aspect of being around a select group of young men that were all trying to accomplish the same goal: a chance to showcase our skills and get a shot at the next level.” Hilliard, who transferred from
EJ Hilliard (1) talks with Austin Scott (23) on the sidelines during VSU’s homecoming game, Nov. 14.
Florida International before the season, started every game for the Blazers in 2015. He led the team to a 9-3 record and will forever have a place in the VSU record books. In a 56-22 home win over Cumberland, Hilliard hit D’Amonte Ridley on a 92-yard
broke a tackle and scored. So it’s really cool to have a place in history.” Hilliard has had NFL aspirations his entire life. Prior to the season, he shared with The Spectator that his individual goal was to have a chance at the next level. Fortunately, Hilliard grew up surrounded by NFL talent in Miami. He replaced the Minnesota Vikings’ Teddy Bridgewater as Northwestern High’s starting quarterback his senior year. His top receiving target that season was Amari Cooper, the pro bowl rookie receiver for the Oakland Raiders. While he has yet to talk with Cooper, Hilliard said he has spoken with Bridgewater in regards to the process of preparing Kristin Whitman/THE SPECTATOR for the NFL. For Hilliard, that preparation kicked off at the touchdown throw. That became Dream Bowl. the longest touchdown pass in “The weekend prepared me Blazer history. tremendously as far as the tempo “I honestly didn’t see of practice, the installation of new anything,” Hilliard said immediately after the game. “I put plays and a whole new system and adapting to a whole new coaching it up, I got hit, I heard screaming culture in a short amount of time.” from that (Cumberland’s) side “It also prepared me from a and thought ‘man, that’s an competition standpoint, where interception.’ The next thing I everyone has a clean slate and a know, I heard he caught it, then
chance to impress the coaches.” Hilliard was the only player to have multiple touchdowns in the game. He finished 5 of 7 for 79 yards with a passing touchdown, rushing touchdown and interception. While VSU’s playoff run was halted by West Georgia in the second round, Hilliard’s individual success was not overlooked. Over half of the NFL has sent scouts to visit campus. This includes a New York Giants scout who stayed to watch the Mississippi College game live. Hilliard finished his lone season as a Blazer having completed 65% of his passes for 2,425 yards and a 22:5 touchdown-to-interception ratio. He also proved to be a threat on the ground, adding 569 yards and three scores. With the bowl concluded, Hilliard has returned home to Miami to train at Bommarito Performance Systems under long-time quarterback coach Ken Mastrole. Mastrole, who has operated with Hilliard since high school, will be working to improve the quarterback’s throwing mechanics, velocity and overall strength.
There are a million* reasons to earn your degree at VSU. Here are a million and one:
Julia Fink SteJback 3rd year Medical Student at PhiladelPhia college oF oSteoPathic Medicinegeorgia caMPuS VSu claSS oF 2012
“As a biology major, I quickly learned the importance of time management and applying
what I learned outside of the classroom. Some of the best experiences I have gained are from all of the out of class labs, field trips and bug collections that made our lecture material come to life. I even had the opportunity to be a part of a research project that took us through all of the wetlands and swamps of South Georgia. With all of these experiences and the encouragement and guidance from professors and advisors, I was more than prepared for the challenges of medical school. ”
Start here. Stay here. Succeed everywhere. * A typical worker with a bachelor’s degree earns $1.19 million more than a typical high school graduate, according to Hamilton Project’s “Major Decisions: What Graduates Earn Over Their Lifetimes.”