Aug 25, 2016
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Volume 91, Issue 02
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size Over 11,000 Students 12 Total Dining Locations on Main Campus & North Campus
Daily Serving of News
News
New Interim President focusing on Student Success Page Students mixed on Dining Options Page Blazer Sports Grille garnering mixed reviews Page
2 2 3
Michael Phelps’ medals deserve respect Page Pokemon Go is impacting society Page in the best and worst ways
4 4
Happening on the front lawn today: Page in the gallery Teachers Page Review: Cinema is a hit in Page Downtown Valdosta
5 5 5
Opinions
College Life
Spec Tech & Games
What the heck happened to Page 6 Myspace?
Sports
Peonia riding high after GSC first team nod Page 7 Volleyball is setting up for a great season Page 7 Intramural field gets a facelift Page 8 Page 8 Fantasy Football is back in action Kenny Moore is ready for Saturdays in Valdosta Page 8
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August 25, 2016
Review:
Students should visit new Blazer Sports Grille Bryce Ethridge
STAFF WRITER bjethridge@valdosta.edu The Blazer Sports Grille is one of VSU’s newest additions to campus. It’s replaced the buffetstyle of its predecessor, Hopper, with an actual restaurant where you wait to be seated and get a set amount of food based on what you ordered. The new additions to the dining area include renovated floors, two pool tables, a ping pong table, one sofa and multiple flat screen HD TVs that surround the entire restaurant. Another addition is the Coca-Cola freestyle machines, which include a small amount
of what an average freestyle machine usually entails but seem quite repetitive in taste. Some advice: If you want a good flavor to drink, you might want to get there early. It was a good idea when it first came up, but does it continue to be a good idea. With Palms Dining Hall closing at 7 p.m., customers have to wait in long lines to get in, and those who are already in have to wait for their food in order to eat. So is Blazer Sports Grill worth the trade-off of Hopper Dining Hall? Ebony Hunter, senior supervisor, said Aramark brought the Grill here to provide something
GO BLAZERS
different and to add variety to the campus. “I’ve gotten many compliments on the food; that it tasted way better than it did before,” Hunter said. “But it’s all a work in progress, so it’s getting better every day.” Regarding any upcoming changes, Hunter said she wasn’t sure, but there will be upcoming events and “treats” for the customers. Her closing remarks were that everyone should give it a chance and everything is a work in progress. Multiple students have said that they don’t appreciate having to spend a minimum of $10 to eat or
waiting until 7 p.m. for the meal exchange. Jatavius Williams, sophomore, said he wanted Hopper back for its open late buffet-
style serving. Opinions will continue varying, but everyone should give Blazer Sports Grille a try.
Ron Borders Property Management Here for you and your housing needs. Give us a call! 229-259-0604
The Blazer Sports Grille is one of the many newly renovated services on campus.
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New Interim President focusing on student success Mayah Cantave MANAGING EDITOR
mcantave@valdosta.edu In two short months, VSU’s new interim president is already making history and breaking through boundaries as the 11th president in VSU’s 110 year history and as the first woman to spearhead the university. Dr. Kelli Brown started her journey as VSU’s interim president officially July 1. She accepted her new role with honor and humility. “I’m happy to be the interim president of Valdosta State University and I think being the first female is also an honor.” Brown said. Brown comes well prepared with over 28 years of experience in higher education. Prior to becoming VSU’s interim president, she held the position of provost
and vice president of academic affairs at Georgia College and State University. Brown accepted the position after VSU’s former interim president, Cecil Staton, accepted the job as chancellor at East Carolina University. Brown said she hopes to continue Staton’s commitment to student success. She has no qualms about taking the temporary role. Since 2008, the university has seen four different individuals take the reigns as president. But that doesn’t sway the new president’s thoughts on the university; its credibility has remained intact. “This university has a lot of credibility,” Brown said. “I don’t think the fact that there have been multiple president’s decreases credibility. It’s very well received by the system office and the office thinks very highly of
Valdosta State.” Even though a search committee has been formed to find a permanent president for the university, Brown is not concerned with the final decision. Her focus is on continuing the forward movement of VSU and focusing on student success. “The more that we focus on student success; making sure that when students get here they have the type of experiences that they need both in the classroom and outside of the classroom… all of that mixes in with student success.” Among some of the challenges the new president has inherited, enrollment is a big item on the menu. With a progressive decline in enrollment, as of August 2015, 33 professors were laid off. To help combat the decline of enroll-
ment numbers, Brown noted working with Tee Mitchell, interim director of enrollment services, to turn the tide. “What I’m hoping for this year, because of the new marketing campaign, social media and all the things they put a lot of effort into, is that we have a stable enrollment of freshmen,” Brown said. “We’re going to focus on retention.” “What I’ve found … since I’ve been here is the people are great,” Brown said. “Everyone loves Valdosta State Photo Courtesy of VSU University. The passion Dr. Kelli Brown took over as Interim Presiand the commitment here dent on July 1. is unbelievable.”
Dengue fever may become threat in U.S. Dangerous new disease is transmitted through mosquito bites Kimberly Cannon
STAFF WRITER kecannon@valdosta.edu Multiple cases of Dengue fever have been reported in the U.S. Dengue Fever is transmitted
by the Aedes species mosquito. The first infection is extremely painful, but it is a secondary infection that could be lethal. Dr. Ashley Brown of the University Of Florida College Of Medicine spoke about Dengue. Avoiding mosquito bites is the key to avoiding this painful and possibly deadly disease. A high fever, headaches, and pain all over the body are common symptoms of the
flu, but if one is returning from a summer vacation in the tropics the Dengue virus could possibly be the culprit. Dr. Ashley Brown, assistant professor at the University of Florida College of Medicine, said dengue is such a painful disease it is sometimes referred to as “Breakbone Fever.” “There are four closely related viruses of Dengue,” Dr. Brown said. “These are called different serotypes.” The knowledge of these four types of Dengue viruses is important for understanding the progression of the disease, according to Brown. Dengue is transmitted to humans by the bite of a Dengue infected mosquito, either Aedes Aegypti mosquitos or Aedes Albopictus mosquitos. Aedes Albopictus is found throughout Georgia and it’s an urban mosquito that prefers to bite humans over animals, Dr. Brown said. The body’s immune system can
Students mixed on dining options Hunter Terrell
STAFF WRITER hlterrell@valdosta.edu VSU underwent several changes this summer in order to prepare for the Fall semester. One of the major transitions was the university’s dining service switching from Chartwell’s to Aramark Inc. Blazer Dining now offers eight various meal plans and allows students access to multiple vendors on campus including Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, Moe’s, Einstein’s Bagel Bros., and the recently added Which Wich, Valdosta Bread Company, and Blazer’s Sports Grille. So far students are having mixed reactions to VSU’s dining renovations. Sophomore Stefan Roberts concluded that the Blazer Sports Grille is not what he expected, “The line was long, the prices were crazy, and it is such small
portions of food.” The Blazer Sports Grille took place of Hopper Dining hall and is open from 7 p.m. to midnight. There you can exchange a meal swipe from Palms for an entrée, side, and drink. Another addition that has been made is that Palms Dining now offers more seating as the wall that used to separate Pinkberry, Moe’s, and Papa John’s from Palms has been removed and Moe’s has been relocated to the student union. Junior Marissa Gray said that she is very unhappy with this decision. “I loved Pinkberry! Now we don’t have anything on campus to keeps us cool in between classes unless you want to wait in line at Chick-Fil-A for a milkshake, and that’s not happening. The line for Moe’s and Chick-FilA are so crazy, and they are about to throw Which Wich right in the
middle? The lines are literally going to be out the door.” If students ever find themselves doubting the Blazer Grille, not having enough time to wait in a fifteen minute line, or just do not want to spend their dining dollars, Palms Dining Hall is always a great option. Sophomore Raven Robinson said “Palms has really good days and really bad. But for the most part the employees are super nice now.” Sophomore Ben Jones agreed with Robinson, commenting that Palms is reliably consistent and is the “Same as last year.” If students have any questions or concerns, more information about the meal plans, menus, and locations are available at Valdosta.campusdish.com
typically overcome the first infection of the Dengue virus on its own, according to Dr. Brown. “It’s only [lethal] when you get infected with a second, different type of Dengue,” Dr. Brown said. “So if you initially have a Dengue-two infection, then you get bit by another infected mosquito that’s carrying Denguefour, for example, that’s when you can get into trouble, and your Dengue Fever could progress to Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever or Dengue Shock Syndrome.” Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever and Dengue Shock Syndrome can be fatal. When Dengue Fever progresses to the more severe Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever, the infected individual will experience severe abdominal pain, frequent vomiting, and hemorrhagic manifestations, such as bleeding under the skin or from the nose. Dengue Shock Syndrome would cause one’s pulse to be weak and rapid, the Center for Disease Control
said. There is no cure for Dengue Fever or its more severe forms: Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever and Dengue Shock Syndrome. Treatment is mainly for the purpose of managing the symptoms, Dr. Brown said. Because there is no vaccine for Dengue, and the disease progresses upon secondary infection, prevention of mosquito bites is crucial. Dengue is not native to the continental United States, but it is endemic in places like Puerto Rico, and cases have been reported in Florida, Louisianna and Texas. So when traveling to a tropical or subtropical destination, taking protective measures against mosquito bites is important. Drain stagnant water, discard items that could hold stagnant water, like old tires, and wear mosquito repellent to prevent the progress of this lethal disease.
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August 25, 2016
Michael Phelps’ medals deserve respect Kimberly Cannon
Staff Writer kecannon@valdosta.edu
Our point of view...
Professors must challenge students Dear professor: What are we? The value of my college career depends on our relationship. The relationship is evolutionary and revolutionary. It’s symbiotic. This isn’t a natural pairing; it takes work. We go to college to hone four traits: intelligence, experience, talent and education. Many of us are as intelligent or as talented as our instructors; that cannot be taught. Knowledge and application can. A professor’s purpose is to transfer his or her experience and education to students in order to improve the future of society. To do that, you must teach, challenge and mentor us. To do that, we must establish mutual respect. Sometimes our instructors fail to identify boundaries. We can learn from those who are not our friends, but we cannot learn from those we don’t respect. If you’re more concerned about being liked than teaching, you’re robbing us. We’re spending thousands of dollars to be prepared, to be mentored so that we can succeed in and change the world we’re about to enter. Newton’s third law of motion states for every action, there’s an equal reaction. In our case: equal effort, equal investment. We have the opportunity to grow and be challenged—in class and out--as a catalyst for development. As student, we must rise to that responsibility. But both professors and students must understand that they are not equals. Professors sometimes forget they’re working with students. Professors must exhibit patience and understanding. Be flexible. Motivate rather than mollycoddle. If you do your part, trust that we’ll do ours. Equal effort, equal investment. Relate to us, but don’t indulge or befriend us. Push us. Challenge us. Make us uncomfortable. As Farrah Gray would put it, “comfort is the enemy of achievement.” The same goes for individual focus. Time should be spent equitably. Helping an individual student at the expense of others, or paying too much attention to the loud-mouth guy in the front trying to impress the girl behind him, wastes limited time and attention. If we have issues, it’s our responsibility to approach you outside of class. That’s part of our growing process. As part of our preparation for life, it’s better this way. We are working to be professionals, so let’s keep the relationship professional. Being buddies with a professor can interfere with our careers. Coddling rather than challenging us disrupts the future of society. In a few short years, the country will be in our hands. Perhaps that’s a scary thought for many of you, but it’s exciting to us. Make sure we’re ready. Seem hyperbolic? Maybe on the surface, but we need as many qualified individuals as possible to lift this country out of its rut. Anything intrusive to that harms the next generation. The line must be established and respected. It may vary from professor to professor – in my case, I’m closer to my journalism professors than my Spanish teachers, but all remain professional. None of us wants to be left in the dark about a relationship. We want to know where it stands and where it’s going. In this instance, we should know to visit you if we’re struggling with the subject matter, not if a significant other hasn’t replied to a snapchat for three hours. VSU has other resources for that. We are asking you, respectfully, to be the ones who develop the world’s next difference makers. We’ll use your valuable experience and education in ways you hadn’t. Equal effort, equal investment. We need you to help us better humanity. Newton’s first law is an object will remain at rest unless acted upon by another force. Be the outside force which pilots us into success. This editorial was written by a member of the editorial staff and expresses the general opinion of The Spectator.
Editorial Staff Editor-in-Chief: Gabe Burns Managing Editor: Mayah Cantave Opinions Editor: Julia Rodriquez College Life Editor: Kelsey Dickerson Sports Editor: Kyle Dawson Photo Editor: Blake Clark Web Editor: Kayla Stroud Multimedia Editor: Darian Harris Social Media Editor: Tyra Mills Copy Editor: Michaela Leung
Michael Phelps has had a few scandals during his 16 yearlong swimming career, but his accomplishments have outshone those incidents. Phelps has made mistakes, but during competition he followed the rules, unlike some of his fellow USA Olympic athletes. Phelps’s popularity is why most people know about his past marijuana use, not because he is truly a bad influence. In 2009, a photograph of Michael Phelps surfaced that showed him smoking marijuana. This led to public criticism, and some renounced Phelps as a role model. Yet, instead of promoting drug use in any way, Phelps has pushed for stricter drug testing of athletes at the 2016 Rio Olympics, reported BBC sports editor Dan Roan. The World Anti-Doping Organization’s list of prohibited sub-
stances bans the use of marijuana by athletes in-competition but not at all times, so Phelps’s use of marijuana didn’t warrant the confiscation of his Olympic medals. As of the 2016 Olympics, the amount of marijuana, or THC levels, allowed in an Olympic athlete’s system increased tenfold from the previous amount allowed, reported Eric Kiefer of Montclair Patch. All of this is not to say that Phelps habitually smokes marijuana before competing, rather, if he did make that decision, he wouldn’t be guilty of breaking the anti-doping guidelines. Regardless of one’s opinion towards the recreational use of marijuana, Phelps has not been found to be under the influence of performance-enhancing drugs nor marijuana during Olympic competitions, and so his medals and swimming ability have no reason to be attacked. Following the 2008 marijuana
scandal, Phelps was issued a DUI in 2014 and was punished by USA Swimming yet again, but Phelps sought to better himself after this incident and attended a type of self-improvement program, reported Steve Almasy of CNN. Phelps has made some mistakes, but he is not the only Olympic athlete guilty of a scandal. U.S. Olympic sprinter Justin Gatlin and Marion Jones failed drug tests in 2006, and Tyson Gay failed a drug test in 2014 and had to return his medal from the 2012 Olympics, reported Kale Havervold of The Sportster. Phelps’s actions were far less damaging to his athletic credibility than those of Gatlin, Jones, and Gay, yet Phelps’s story is the one better known by the general public. The cause for this is likely Phelps’s flourishing Olympic swimming career. Phelps does not have a perfect past, but it is a hard task to keep a reputation spotless for 16 years.
Pokemon Go impacts society in best and worst ways An app that can heal Julia Rodriquez
sion. He explains that the research on Opinions Editor jlrodriquez@valdosta.edu exercise and depression is very clear: the Video games and more you exercise, apps are often seen as the better you feel. a poor choice of a pass Unfortunately there time, but Pokémon have been issues with Go has been created people misusing the differently. It forces game. Updates are players to exercise. regularly made in atThe game requires tempt to resolve them. going to specific For example: If destinations to collect the game items. Many pokésenses that stops and gyms are you are placed at libraries, movparks, popular restauing too rants, museums and fast and churches. likely in All this walking has a car, it been extremely benefi- will stop cial. Regular exercise and ask helps individuals if you are battle obesity and even a passenger before depression. letting you continue. According to Additionally it will Engadget’s article warn players to be “Pokémon Go’s menaware of their surtal health benefits are roundings and not to real,” Dr. John Grohol, trespass. an expert in TechnoloIndividuals could gy’s impact on human always ignore the behavior and mental game’s warnings, but health, said that Pokéat that point it is the mon Go is helping person, not the app, people fight depresthat is the issue.
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An app that can kill Evelyn Dunn
Staff Writer eadunn@valdosta.edu People are seen all over trying to catch Pokémon, usually distinguishable from non-players by their phones glued to their faces and the spontaneous yelling of “I got one!” But what if this game is actually causing more harm than good? Reports have been popping up from all over in the news stating players are trespassing, operating vehicles, and assaulting each other while playing Pokémon Go. One incident involved two teens breaking into a house to catch a rare Pokémon, they were shot and one was killed on site by the owner. This was the first reported case since the launch
of the app that involved a fatality according to USAtoday. This begs the question: what lengths will players go to catch a Pokémon? This generation is already branded as the one that doesn’t know when to disconnect from technology. This game increases that stereotype drastically. Yes, people are going outside more and getting mild exercise, but they’re looking at their phones. The phrase ‘disconnect to connect’ could not be more implied here. Since these incidents have been arising, the app has established warnings once players logon to the game. They discourage people from trespassing and to stay aware of their surroundings while using the app. But is this enough? Only time will tell if the insistent crime rate concerning this game will decrease. Hopefully, the game’s warnings will help resolve this ongoing crisis.
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Happening on the front lawn today: 25th anniversary of student event Jada Dukes
Staff Writer Jldukes@valdosta.edu Today marks the 25th anniversary of The Happening. The Happening is an event that gives students an opportunity to learn more about what the on-campus organizations and the Valdosta community has to offer them. Robin Vickery, director of Student Life, says that the idea to have an event that allows students to get to know more about their campus came from the ”Campus Rec area” and from there the idea eventually grew into a grand tradition. The Happening takes place on the Front Lawn every year between 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. There will be vendors providing refreshments, entertainment, and tons of free stuff. According to Trisha Taylor, the administrative assistant of Student Life, there will be between 5,000
and 6,000 students attending The Happening this year. Taylor also says that there will be approximately 130-150 on-campus organizations and departments and 130 off-campus vendors there to connect with the Valdosta State community. Vickery says that this year’s Happening will be honoring its 25th anniversary by giving away “special prizes” to lucky students, those prizes will include brand new portable chargers that will be given away at random to the first 100 students to register for the event. The event is not geared solely towards the freshman class; it is for anyone looking to get involved on-campus whether you’re a transfer student, junior, or senior. All currently enrolled VSU students are welcome to attend the event. Spectator File Photo
Students walk around a maze of tents at The Happening in 2013. The Happening 2016 begins today at 1 p.m.
Jada Dukes/Spectator Staff
Teachers in the gallery
At 6:30 p.m. Monday night the Dedo Maranville Fine Arts Gallery opened its doors to VSU students, faculty, and art lovers in the Valdosta community. The gallery featured pieces from professors such as Kyoung-im Park, Michael Schmidt, Kalina Winska and many more. The Art Faculty Exhibition will be open for viewing until Sept 9.
REVIEW:
Cinema is a hit in downtown Valdosta Kelsey Dickerson
College Life Editor kedickerson@valdosta.edu A decked-out staff greeted customers as they bought tickets and snacks at the Red Door Records and Cinema this weekend. The movie began to roll as the crowd chanted “Lips! Lips! Lips! Lips! Lips!” in anticipation of what was to come. Red Door Records and Cinema screened the Rocky Horror Picture Show Saturday night to the delight of a costumed audience, who were invited by Cinema owner Jessica Ganas to shout out lines and make use of props to interact with the musical. What resulted was a roaring good time. Newspapers covered
heads as rain came down on screen and select audience members doused others with “rain” (spray bottles filled with water provided by Ganas before the show). Later in the movie, people familiar with the musical got up to sing and do the “Time Warp” along with partygoers on screen. “I’ve always really loved movies” said Ganas, who opened Red Door Records six years ago but only started screening movies after closing on Fridays and Saturdays just last year. However, if Rocky Horror, which is screened regularly every few months, isn’t quite your speed, the Cinema seems to do something for everyone, screening different genres every Friday
and Saturday night. Red Door Records and Cinema is a great weekend stop for Valdosta State students. Movie tickets sell at a good price and the snacks are much better quality at a bargain compared to what you might get at the GTC Stadium 16 further uptown. You can even browse a collection of vintage and modern records and CDs to take home before or after the show if you have a little extra time. Ganas and her shop will move locations on the first of next month to a bigger storefront in the old Grassroots Coffee shop on the corner of N Patterson St. and W Central Ave.
Check out more pictures of the work in the Dedo Maranville Fine Arts Gallery by Jada Dukes on our website: www.vsuspectator.com
GO BLAZERS
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August 25, 2016
DID YOU
KNOW?
Throwback Tech:
According to Network World, Apple CEO Tim Cook announced that Apple has sold over 700 million iPhones.
What the heck happened to Myspace? Michaela Leung
COPY EDITOR maleung@valdosta.edu
DID YOU
Most of us remember the days of Myspace. Today’s teenagers unfortunately will never get the chance to experience Myspace the way that we did when we were younger. From arranging your “Top Friends” to perfecting your HTML code for your layout and uploading the perfect wacky bathroom mirror pic. We would update our statuses, put our favorite song on our profile, and spend an unnecessary amount of time on our “About Me” section. Who could forget the excitement of logging in and seeing “New Message!” or “New Friend Requests!” on your screen. We can’t forget about the long “Bulletins” we used to post and the joy of leaving “PC4PC” comments under your friend’s photos. Eventually, Facebook came onto the scene and reeled us in and just like that, we were done with Myspace. Now, we have Twitter, Snapchat, and Instagram to keep our attention. It’s as if we have forgotten all about our friend Tom and his website creation that connected the masses.
KNOW?
Now, Myspace has a completely different layout. The site has now focused its energy into music and current events. You can scroll through the page and read a variety of interesting articles. The home page now has a News, Artist of the Day, and More tab. Under the “More” tab, you can read articles ranging from artist profiles, wrestling, and a section that pays homage to late celebrities. On the “Discover” section in the sidebar, you can search for music, take a look at Featured articles, and videos. The videos range from Myspace Exclusives, Myspace series, music videos and live performances. There is also a “People” tab that allows you to search for people by profession (Writers, Designers, Bloggers, Dancers, DJs, etc.) after you make your account. You are still able to make a profile, but the twist is: you can make it by linking you Facebook or Twitter account. You are still able to go the old fashioned way, and use your email address. Who would think that we would be using other social media sites to have an account on the site that started it all? The site has completely revamped and switched gears, but what about Tom? Until 2010, he was everyone’s first
According to The Fact Site, Gran Turismo is the best-selling game for the PlayStation 1 with 10.85 million. It took five years to make.
Suduko X Complete the grid so that every row, column, diagonal and 3x2 box contains every digit from 1 to 6 inclusive. Good Luck! For the solutions head to VSUSpectator.com!
Photo courtesy Flickr
Myspace friend but what is he up to now? The former computer hacker turned Internet innovator is now “Enjoying being retired” according to his Twitter bio. He also includes “New Hobby: Photography” in his bio, showing that he too is using his talents elsewhere. You can keep up with Tom Anderson on Twitter by following his handle “@myspacetom” where he still has his iconic photo of him looking over his shoulder. Myspace, you were definitely a major part of our youth and we were sad to see you go. Like they say, “All good things must come to an end.”
August 25, 2016
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Peonia riding high after GSC first team nod Cynthia Papailler
STAFF WRITER ctpapailler@valdosta.edu At 6 ft. tall, Susanna Peonia stands out in the crowd. The Italian born volleyball player is starting off this year in the spotlight as she was voted as All-GSC on the preseason polls, an honor only 7 others received throughout the Gulf South Conference. “I feel awesome,” Peonia said. “It’s always an honor to be selected. It’s eight players out of a conference with every team being 12 players and there are six or seven teams. It’s a great way to start the season.” For the first time in her life she is the oldest player on the team and is taking the leadership role for her fellow teammates. “For me, it is very overwhelming and it is also a practice for me to handle these type of situations,” said Peonia, “People come to you asking what to do, for me it is all very new.” Peonia is no stranger to dealing with the unknown. The Castel Bolognese, Italy native recalled a story of when she moved out with her sister at the age of 17. She talked about the difficulties of having to care for her 14 year-old sister and balancing school and volleyball. “We moved out and that year was just really hard on me,” Peonia said, “I switched from playing middle to the right side—so one position to the other. I was really down that year, but my sister and my roommates helped me out. So that year I was like ‘Alright! I can do it! I have to get myself together!’” Peonia started off playing many different sports and her baseball-playing father played a large role in encouraging her. She also attributed her success to her other family members, her boyfriend and one of her vol-
leyball coaches. “I started when I was 12,” Peonia said, “I played softball and I swam for like six months; I didn’t really like it so then I started volleyball. I wasn’t really that talented, but I was tall. I was really lucky that I had this really good coach back home that really invested a lot time into me.” The atmosphere of playing volleyball is an aspect that Peonia says she enjoys. She describes herself as socially awkward, although her teammates would describe her as the opposite. She enjoys the company of her team and attributes them to why she does so well. “One thing that I enjoy about volleyball is that it is a team sport,” Peonia said, “I would never be able to play an individual sport because I know where my mind goes. Sometimes I need someone to tell me ‘Hey, relax! You got it!’” She said some of her goals for this year are to become an AllAmerican and to be All-GSC. As for her team, she hopes that they continue to build on their communication and teamwork. Peonia believes that the GSC’s preseason polls prediction of VSU finishing in 3rd is pretty accurate, although she is striving for better. “Even if it’s my senior year, it’s a new experience for me because for the first time in my life, I am the oldest person on the team,” Peonia said, “That’s extremely exciting and scary for me because I know that my teammates look up to me and I have to be there for them. So even if I’m scared or if I’m not doing great, I just have to fake it until I make it and be there for them. At the same time, I know my teammates are always there for me.”
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Volleyball is setting up for a great season Hunter Terrell
STAFF WRITER hlterrell@valdosta.edu The VSU volleyball team is fueled up and ready to take on the season, which starts on September 2 in St. Augustine, Florida against Brevard University. With his largest roster yet, Coach Mike Swan is both confident and proud of his big team of 15 players. Practices are productive and beneficial as usual and each position has depth, though Swan said it is “Hard to keep all of the girls engaged when there can only be 12 on the court at a time.” The team has five new players going into the season with three freshman: Kayla Widera, Brittany Castro, Dariah Powell and two transfers: juniors Tristyn Sells and Gabie Velez-Ortiz. Widera, from Trinity, Florida, said she is anxious about the
first home game against West Florida because not only is it a big conference game, but it’s also her birthday and it overall “Will be a jammed packed day.” Swan is also excited for the September 20 game against West Florida because they are one of VSU’s biggest rivals as well as a conference foe. Senior Natalia Campos has big expectations and goals for herself as well as her team. “My personal goals for the season would be to first have fun and enjoy my senior season, but also lead by example on and off the court, which includes in the classroom,” Campos said, “I take my grades and schoolwork really seriously.” Campos said that the team has also set some goals for the 2016 season. “Our team goals would be to continue having the highest team GPA at Valdosta,” Campos said, “We all take pride in having our
academics come first. Volleyball wise, never losing a game on our home court, having a winning record overall, winning conference and then getting past the first round in regionals.” Campos is also striving to be on the All-Conference Team again like last season, and remain top in the conference for number of digs. With a copious recruiting class made up with dedicated and assertive players, the team plans to stay strong and aspires to do even better than their last two seasons. In 2014, the team was announced as the Gulf South Conference Champions and participated in the NCAA South Regional Tournament ending the season with 25-8, and last season they were Gulf South Runner-Up and ended with 23-7. The game versus Brevard is at 4 pm on September 2 in St. Augustine.
Hunter Terrell/THE SPECTATOR
The VSU volleyball team has been practicing tirelessly in order to prepare for Brevard University on Sept. 2.
Follow Spectator Sports on Twitter: @VSUSpecSports LANDSCAPE LANDSCAPE TECHNICIANS TECHNICIANS NEEDED! NEEDED!
Home football games:
Albany State Sept. 3 West Florida Sept. 24 West Georgia Oct. 8 Valdosta State Athletics
Susanna Peonia and Antia Rodriguez-Sanchez have been working hard to get ready for the 2016 season, which starts next Friday.
Delta State Oct. 22 Shorter Nov. 12
Applicants must:
• Have experience with mowers, edgers, weedeaters, hedge 16-20 hours per week trimmers, etc. • Be hard working • Have a valid driver’s license • Be able to take South Georgia heat • Be able to pass a drug screen • Be honest & customer service oriented Year • Be dependable & trustworthy Round • Be able to work 4 to 6 hours at a time (some Saturdays) • Be able to follow directions If you do not have these qualifications, please don’t waste your time. This is a long term position that is ideal for students. Pay is commensurate with experience.
Interested? Email avlc@mchsi.com
Page 8
The Spectator | www.vsuspectator.com
August 25, 2016
Bryce Ethridge
Staff Writer bjethridge@valdosta.edu VSU has changed a good bit over the summer aesthetically. Among the new additions is the recreation field behind Centennial. In the recent years, flag football games have had to be postponed due to the field being rained out and too muddy to play on. Now, the entire field is made out of turf and has a whole water filtration system to make sure that the field never gets rained out. Michael Wilcox said that the reason for getting a new turf field was that last year’s flag football program’s success and the fact that they won the championship garnered new facilities. He also stated that another factor was that being able to play sports after classes will help students function better in the classroom. Right now, only one of the fields has been turfed, and Wilcox said that more turf may be on the way. “I know that we’re trying to turf the field by the tennis courts for club sports, so that’s our next big
project.” Wilcox said. As far as renovations, he said that they have a lot going on, including redoing the pool, but they aren’t planning on renovating the other fields that are by Centennial because they don’t generally get rained out, and they are good to be played on. Another addition to the field are the new bleachers. Fans can probably remember going to flag football games last year, and standing up awkwardly to watch the games. Now fans are able to sit down and enjoy the game without straining their legs. Wilcox also wanted to stress signing up on IM leagues, to get teams registered for flag football, so that Campus Recreation Center can show that the new rec field was a good investment. By showing that the field was a good investment, and will be able to gain more approvals for more renovations around the area. Wilcox wants to encourage everyone who wants to play flag football or any other intramural sport to sign up on IM Leagues.
Fantasy football is back in action Evelyn Dunn
Staff Writer eadunn@valdosta.edu Fantasy Football has been around for a long time, becoming quite popular since its appearance in 1962 in a New York hotel now known as the Milord Plaza. There is even a popular television show that is based around the game, called The League on FX. There are three founding fathers dedicated to the existence of this game, but Willfred Winkenbach holds the most credit in its creation. Winkenbach intended to use it for baseball and golf, which were at the time more popular sports before football got its rise. First timers may wonder how exactly a league is created, what rules are required and what tips could help win the game. When played and set up correctly, it is a fun competition that is perfect for die hard football fans and newcomers to the sport. First, a league needs to be created with a group of friends usually ranging from 8 to 10 people, but a league can have any number of participants. Justin Gardner, a senior here at VSU has been a die hard fantasy football fan for as long as he can remember, said that it is important to always have an even number of players so that each player gets to play each week. Once the league has a name and a set number of teams the draft can start. Fantasy football drafts are similar to the NFL draft except with current players. In the draft, each individual picks players from the NFL teams to play for their imaginary team. This depends on each participant’s
preferred strategy and what players they think will score the most points in the season. The draft date can be determined to the player’s preference, but Gardner suggests that the weekend before the NFL season starts it usually best. This way, nobody runs the risk of picking a player for their team who might get injured before the season even begins. Picking an entry fee and drawing up some basic rules such as setting a trade deadline and what type of scoring system is the next step. Gardner states that this is important so the game still remains fun with little disputes during the season. There are a variety of leagues that are different based on their aspects of game-play. There’s the Standard, Point-per Reception (PPR), and Touchdown leagues. These, which are all slightly different, focus on the scoring, with each variation and simply depends on preference. Commonly, leagues only focus on offensive players only, but some other leagues focus on individual defensive players and dynasty leagues use the same team for many years, while only drafting rookies. If you would like to create a league for this upcoming season, you have the option of setting it up on a hosting NFL site such as NFL.com or ESPN.com. This way everything will be documented and the statistics will be recorded correctly each week. There are also apps for all of these sites. The most important thing to remember, however, is that it’s a gameHave fun and have a great time.
The Spectator is looking for Sports writers. If your interested email Kyle Dawson at kkdawson@valdosta.edu
KNOW?
DID YOU
Intramural field gets a facelift
The Nikes of VSU won the 2015-2016 National Intramural Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA) Men’s National Flag Football Championship.
Valdosta State University
VSU President Dr. Kelly Brown cut the ribbon during the unveiling of the new intramural field last Friday.
Kenny Moore is ready for Saturdays in Valdosta Ray Pack
Staff Writer rspack@valdosta.edu From the concession stand to becoming an NFL Draft prospect, Kenny Moore is set to lead the VSU Football Blazers to a playoff berth. Before Moore’s senior year of high school, he played soccer, basketball and track and field. During the football season, Moore worked in the concession stand with his coach until he decided decision to join the field. He did not play organized football until his senior season at Lowndes High School, where he earned a well deserved scholarship to Valdosta State University. During his four year campaign, he has improved drastically every year and now has become the esteemed title of captain of the defense. He wants to propel his teammates and himself onto a national stage for the first time since 2012 when the Blazers won the National Championship. “God keeps me humble,” Kenny Moore, senior defensive back, said,”My family and teammates will support me throughout the season. My teammates and I must motivate each other to win one game at a time on the way to winning
a Conference and National Championship for the Blazers.” Wearing the iconic defensive back number twenty-four, he pays homage to some of the greatest corner backs such as Darrelle Revis, Charles Woodson, Josh Norman and his personal favorite/role model Champ Bailey. “It’s a popular number in my family,” Moore said. “Not to mention that Champ Bailey was my favorite player growing up. He was in his prime and the number twenty-four symbolizes an important player on any team.” Kenny was named first team preseason all Gulf South Conference. Just last year he was named first team all-conference, second team all super region and second team USA all american. He is looking to be named first team all American this year. This meant a lot to him as a person and a player of the game. “Personally, it’s an honor for the GSC to think so highly of me.” Moore said. He is perceived on the field to be a field general and with a move to safety it will only help him become a better player. It will also give him the versatility to switch between cornerback and safety depending on
the defense. “The move to safety from cornerback is a move I like,” Moore said. “I get to keep everything in front of me and read the offense before the play begins. This gives me more of a chance to make plays for the defense to put our offense in a position to score. I am also returning punts and kickoffs this season. This season will show all of my talents.” It came as a surprise to some because of his size of only 5’9” and weighing only 185 pounds to be so active on the team. It’s just a roadblock that he’s overcome with his 4.4 40 yard dash and his 41-inch vertical along with his long arms and big hands to stay with defenders. Moore’s versatility is something that can propel the Blazers and give him the recognition to make the next step. “I plan to enter the NFL Draft in the spring and the NFL scouts will know that I know that this opportunity is only a blessing,” Moore said. “I am willing to do anything no matter what so this blessing is not wasted. I know it doesn’t come around often for most people, so I will make the best out of it.”
Next Week: A look at VSU soccer senior Kayla Robles Valdosta State University