November 15, 2012
W W W. V S U S P E C TAT O R . C O M
Inside This Issue
w w w. v s u s p e c ta t o r. c o m
- SPORTS: “VSU ready for Wildcats”
PEACE CORPS - Information Session 6 to 7 p.m. in Powell Hall-West, second floor. Call 333-5942 to register your attendance. FRENCH MOVIE - Bienvenus chez les Ch’tis presented by Dr. Ofélia Nikolova. Dogwood Room, UC 7 p.m. BRAVE - Join DM in Jennet Hall Auditorium for popcorn and a movie. The movie Brave will show at 7 p.m. KAPPA ALPHA PSI - The brothers of the Lambda Phi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi are having an interest meeting at 7:11 in the University Theater. Business attire is required. AMAZING SPIDERMAN - Join Natural High at 8 p.m. in the Library Auditorium. Snacks provided. It’s all free! Call 2595111. PICTURE ME MOUSE PADS CAB is giving out free mouse pads with personalized photos! Go to the Student Union Theater Lobby from 5 to 9 p.m. SCIENCE SEMINAR - The seminar will be presented by Dr. Elmer Gray, Department of Entomology, University of Georgia, and the title is “Black Flies and the Endangered Whooping Crane: Is There a Link?” For more information, visit the Science Seminar Series webpage.
Weather Today
AM Showers 65 H 47 L
Saturday
Partly Cloudy 67 H 45 L
Question of the week What’s your favorite Thanksgiving food? A. Turkey B. Sweet Potato Casserole C. I like it all. D. I don’t like holiday food. Vote online at www.vsuspectator.com!
Last Week Poll Results Are you happy with the turnout of the election?
I didn’t vote
S TA F F W R I T E R acsullivan@valdosta.edu
VSU’s Dance Marathon will host its annual Blazer-a-thon from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday in the Student Union Ballrooms A, B and C. Blazer-a-thon is an event that raises money for the “Miracle Families” that have had kids helped by Shands Hospital for Children located in Gainesville, Fla. “Our purpose is to raise awareness, help raise money for the kids treated at Shands Hospital for Children at the University of Florida and stand for those who can’t,” Sara Whetsell, recruitment chair for Dance Marathon, said. Crishaun Johnson, marketing chairperson for Dance Marathon, described the process. “Registered organizations sign up as teams, stand for 12 hours [no sitting], and vow to raise $98 for Shands Hospital,” he said. “This year the number 98 represents the 98% of children worldwide that Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals help each year with a heart defect. This year both of DM’s Miracle Children were born with heart defects and were or are treated at Shands.” Participants will not be dancing for 12 hours straight, but will learn a morale dance in the beginning of the event that they will perform every hour for 12 hours. Blazer-a-thon will feature games, prizes and other organizations raising money and awareness for Shands Hospital.
57 %
34 %
9%
Blazer Football enters NCAA playoffs with No.1 seed
“The event consists of live DJs, prizes and food donated from local businesses and vendors, entertainers, live miracle stories for Miracle Families of South Georgia, visitors from CMNH, Shands, and other Dance Marathons, the community, volunteers and registered Student Life organizations standing/dancing for a cause,” Johnson said. Participants will be required to pay a registration fee and meet a fundraising requirement of $98. “[There’s] a $15 registration fee . . .you must fundraise $98 because 98 percent of all children with heart and lung defects are treated at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, and both of our miracle children have heart defects,” Whetsell said. Some of the local businesses involved in sponsoring Dance Marathon’s events include: IHOP, Steel's Jewelry, Papa Johns, Chubb Reality Ltd/Realtors, Krispy Kreme, Buffalo Wild Wings, Spence Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac, Mode Boutique, ASTRO Exterminating, Dr. Ed & Mrs. Sandra Hall and SGA of VSU. A few other sponsors include Ellianos, Kent Screen Printing, Chick Fil-A, The Wedge, Winn-Dixie, Harvey's, Austins and Sonnys. According to Whetsell, Dance Marathon hopes to raise a five digit total in proceeds for Shands. “Dance Marathon hopes to raise $20,000 by the end of Blazer-A-Thon,” she said. One hundred percent of the
Mac Ingram/ THE SPECTATOR Above: All-American cornerback Matt Pierce (No. 26) tallied three interceptions and 33 tackles in the regular season. Pierce, the teams starting corner, will have his hands full against the region’s best receivers in the playoffs.
Left: Kaleb Nobles throws a pass to a receiver during practice Wednesday evening. The freshman quarterback hasn’t played this seson however fans can expect to see No.5 in the future.
Photo courtesy VSU
See DANCE, Page 2
Construction may end soon S P E C T AT O R
Cloudy 67 H 48 L
No
Dance Marathon hosts fundraiser for kids
Danielle Reynolds
Friday
Yes
Blazer-a-thon: Autumn Sullivan
Check out Amber Smith’s review of Michael Myerz’ new album, “Metamorphosis.”
Rest up and come back refreshed to finish out the semester.
- FEATURES: “More than just a pretty face”
HOUSING CONTRACTS - Any release of housing contracts by students transferring, withdrawing or doing an internship through VSU credit are due to the Housing Office.
On the Web
Enjoy your break!
- OPINIONS: “Deck the halls with marijuana”
Today at VSU
VOLUME 84 ISSUE 12
CORRESPONDENT dereynolds@valdosta.edu
As the end of the year approaches, so—finally does nearly a decade of major construction projects on VSU’s main campus. According to Thressea Boyd, director of communications, the final project is north campus’ Health Sciences and Business Administration building, costing $32 million. VSU expects construction to be completed in January 2014. According to Boyd’s article on the building, the project has been a part of the master plan since 2004. “At this point we do not have any other major . . . construction project[s],” Boyd said. “The rest of the things you’ll see on campus would just be major and minor repairs and renovations.” The HSBA building will greatly expand some departments, such as VSU’s nursing department. “The construction for the nursing department, the Health Science building, is one of the smartest things VSU has done,” Mariah McDaniel, a senior nursing major, said. “When it’s all over, we’ll have one of the best nursing programs in the state.” Boyd explained that due to a lack of available land, main campus won’t expand much in the near future. Occasionally, VSU will look at houses surrounding campus as they become available, but they are looked at on a one-on-one basis. The HSBA building is one of the largest projects, but is by no
means the only big thing that VSU longer have lived through happened in the last several more construction, witnessing years. Since 2007, VSU comnumerous projects. pleted numerous projects, such “They’re making the campus as the parking decks, Hopper look more presentable for future Hall, Centennial Hall and the students,” Michaela Hutchinson, Student Union. a freshman crimiVSU’s 2004 At this point we nal justice major, master plan laid “The first do not have any said. out detailed plans thing students to expand main look at in a colother major . . . and north campus lege is the visual construction with the projects of it. If the camlisted on the pus doesn't draw project[s]. 2007-2009 conpeople in, they’re - THRESSEA BOYD struction schednot going to be ule. According to interested in the Boyd, projects such as the Psyeducation part of the college.” chology Building, Ashley Hall, “Having to go the long way is and the Bailey addition were an inconvenience,” Sarah Johnadded later, as the master plan son, junior biology major, said. was updated in 2007. The addi“Besides the Health Sciences tional projects were added as building, we don’t need it all.” funds became available. Patricia Martin, sophomore According to VSU’s website, biology major, said that she felt the earlier projects had a $150 the construction was endless. million budget, which VSU sucHowever, many do appreciate cessfully stuck to. The $150 mil- what the renovations are doing lion was acquired through bond for VSU, including the adminisissuance of public and private tration. partners. Funds for the later proAccording to Chelsea Wells, a jects were acquired separately. graduate clinical counseling psyThe Psychology building cost chology student, all the con$5 million, and Ashley Hall and struction can be annoying, espethe Bailey addition cost $5.5 cially that of the parking decks, million each. A detailed conbut newly renovated buildings struction budget isn’t available are good and show growth. online, but can be found in the “We’ve had what we would library. According to Boyd, conconsider ‘living learning’ construction funding is listed as struction,” Boyd said, which is “capital projects” or “mmr” (ma- construction that enhances the jor/minor renovations). academic learning environment With such growth, students through places where students have definitely taken notice. live and learn. Feelings toward construction, “Construction is a positive costs and effects are varied. growth,” Boyd said. “It’s showWhile some new-to-campus ing that we’re keeping our facilifreshmen have a positive outties up to date, providing the look on the construction, some best facilities for our students in longer-time students’ views difthat living, learning environfer. Students that have attended ment.”
“
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Major Construction Projects Through the Years Fall 2007
wFine Arts Gallery Renovation
Fall 2008
wOak Street Parking Deck wSustella Parking Deck
Summer 2009
wNew Georgia Hall
Spring 2010
wStudent Union
Spring 2011
wJennett Lecture Hall
Summer 2011
wPsychology Building
Spring 2012
wBailey Science Center Addition
Fall 2012
wAshley Hall Renovation
Spring 2014
wHealth Sciences and Business Administration Chad Stone/ THE SPECTATOR
Thanksgiving Operation Hours The following buildings will be closed either completely or partially for Thanksgiving break. RESIDENCE HALLS The traditional residence halls will close Nov. 20 at 5 p.m. and re-open Nov. 24 at 2 p.m.: Brown Georgia Hopper Langdale Lowndes Patterson Reade Students with evening classes must speak with their RHD. LIBRARY HOURS Nov 21-23: Closed Nov 24: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Nov 25: noon to 2 a.m. Reference Desk will be closed until Sunday, Nov. 25. Media Services will be closed until Monday, Nov. 26. The University Center will be closed the entire break until Monday, Nov. 26. The Student Union will be closed the entire break until Nov 25 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. The Student Success Center will close on Nov. 20 at 5:30 p.m. and will re-open on Nov. 26 at 8 a.m.
NEWS Students learn how to fight sexual assaulters
PAGE 2 | VSUSPECTATOR.COM
NOVEMBER 15, 2012 Police Briefs
Upcoming Events
Nichole Jahn-Dixon S P E C T AT O R CORRESPONDENT nmjahndixon@valdosta.edu
VSU is stepping up its game in order to prevent sexual assault and domestic violence. Several new classes and additions have been made to promote awareness and prevent sexual assault crimes. VSU now offers Rape Aggression Defense as a four-hour credit course. “This is a huge, huge accomplishment for RAD in general, we have never been able to offer it before like that,� Holly Wright, assistant director of health promotions, said. Wright said that VSU has offered a non-credit RAD for the past four to five years but the voluntary course required students to come back each day, which made attendance low toward the end. Now that RAD is available to students as a class, they not only receive credit for attending, but they are learning how to protect themselves as well. The techniques of RAD use the potential victim’s body as a weapon of self-defense. Unlike a martial arts program that uses weapons, the person’s body and voice are all that are needed to defend against attackers. The program is structured this way because the weapon could be used against them by the attacker and because a weapon is often not accessible at the onset of an attack. The Office of Health Promotions is also now able to offer a
Dance Continued from Page 1 proceeds raised throughout the year and at Blazer-A-Thon are donated directly to Shands Hospital for Children and benefit the pediatric patients from Georgia. Participants in Dance Marathon events have been on the rise since 2009, and this year expectations are as high as 300 or more participants. “The average turn-out for Blazer-A-Thon has been 500 visitors since 2009 with 200 registered dancers,� Johnson said. “As of this week DM is expecting about 300 or more registered dancers and a host of VSU student volunteers. The number of registered dancers is increasing as little by little each day.� “We are extremely excited to have begun a Valdosta State tra-
miniature version of RAD called SAFE—Self Defense Awareness Familiarization Exchange. This is the only program of its kind that is endorsed by RAD. This “mini-RAD� program can be taught by one person in just a couple of hours and still hits all of the main points in the RAD Program. SAFE primarily teaches participants how to reduce their risk of being a victim, which is 90 percent of self-defense, Wright said.
“VSU is very passionate about this cause and we make every effort to ensure proper reporting [of incidents of sexual assault]. � - DR. LEAH MCMILLAN
Wright said that many of the sororities and fraternities have asked her to put on the SAFE class. “It is great to see the males get involved as well,� Wright said. Wright encouraged students to pay attention to their surroundings at all times. “Take the ear buds out, keep your blinds closed, and look around you for potential danger,� Wright said. “Most assault crimes are crimes of opportunity.� In addition to RAD-type programs, VSU also has emergency
Nov. 16 Student-Faculty Picnic The Mathematical Association of America is hosting a picnic for faculty and students. There will be a chance to have a picnic and play volleyball. Nov. 16 All Resident Assistant applications are due to the Housing Office, with references. To learn more talk to an RA or RHD. Nov. 16, 8 p.m. Spirit Day! Blazer’s Basketball Game Students are asked to bring their Blazer Pride and a $1 donation.
Nov. 13 Accounting Office in Palms Dining Hall reported $875 was missing from the safe. A bike was stolen near Bailey Science Center. A bike was stolen near the Fine Arts Building--it was the second bike stolen from victim in a few weeks. Nov. 12 A student was pulled over for super speeding and her license was suspended. Nov. 11 A bike was stolen near the Fine Arts Building.
Courtesy VSU’s R.A.D. webpage
call phones all around campus, which have a distinct blue light that can be seen from a distance. These phones will get students help in the event of an emergency. If a student has been victimized he or she can go to several locations to report the incident. Dr. Leah McMillan, assistant director of the counseling center, explained that students can come to the Counseling Center, The Haven or University Police. “VSU is very passionate about this cause and we make every effort to ensure proper reporting [of incidents of sexual assault],� Dr. McMillan said. The counseling center at VSU offers therapy to students free of charge. This includes victims of sexual assault or rape. Dr. McMillan previously worked as a Rape Crisis Advocate so she is experienced in matters of sexual assault and how to handle therapy for victims. Dr. McMillan and Holly Wright urge students to stay proactive about sexual assault and seek help from police or counseling if necessary.
Nov. 17, 8 p.m. Valdosta Symphony Orchestra presents “New Frontiers� Whitehead Auditorium Nov. 18, 7:30 p.m. VSU Pianists Present Recital of American Piano Music Dr. Lyle Indergaard will present 20th century American piano music. Whitehead Auditorium Admission is free. The public is encouraged to attend. Nov. 29, 6 p.m. Canoe Battleship The game Battleship in canoes with teams of four! Campus Rec Pool Sign-ups end Nov. 26 There is a $10 team fee that will be donated to the winning team’s charity of choice. Contact Sean Wilkinson at srwilkinson@valdosta.edu for more information. Jan. 2-5 Ski Trip to Winterplace, West Virginia. The cost is $250. Sign up at the CORE office. Contact Sean Wilkinson srwilkinson@valdosta.edu for more information.
Nov. 10 Items from a Georgia Hall resident’s room have gone missing. The roommate reports that the resident has simply misplaced them.
Nov. 9 A wallet was stolen from the Brown Residence Hall bathroom and later returned with money missing. Nov. 8 Lake Louise contractors’ equipment was stolen and the lock needs replacing. Four male students were arrested on Oak Street by the Student Union for possession of marijuana. Nov. 7 Fecal matter was on the walls in the second floor men’s restroom of Thaxton Hall. Books were stolen from a resident’s room in Georgia Hall. Threatening notes were left on a student’s vehicle and the backpassenger window was keyed while in Sustella Parking Deck.
dition, and we hope to welcome our miracle families with outstretched arms into the Valdosta State family,� Whetsell said. According to Johnson, this week is Dance Marathon week. Events for this week are as follows: Wednesday is Percentage Day at Chick-fil-A (mall only) and Ellianos (20% goes to CMNH) There will also be Dine with DM Night at 8 p.m. at The Wedge on Baytree Road (20% goes to CMNH) Thursday is DM movie night in Jeanette Hall at 7 p.m. There will be free snacks and a showing ‘BRAVE’ Friday is DM Spirit Day at the Blazer Basketball game supported by VSU Athletics, VSU Cheer, and VSU Red Hots. DM asks that all students bring $1 to the game and donate to CMNH at the door.
The Classifieds The Spectator prints free classifieds for students of Valdosta State University only. These must be no more than 40 words, or a $8.00 charge will apply. Classifieds for faculty, staff, student organizations,studentowned businesses and the general public cost $8.00 for up to 40 words. Ads should be sent to The Spectator or delivered to our office in 1238 Hopper Hall. The deadline is Monday at 5 p.m. If payment applies, it should be
submitted in a sealed envelope at the time the ad is placed. Ads must be accompanied by the name and phone number of the person submitting the ad. Ads must be resubmitted each week, as necessary. The Spectator address is: 1500 N. Patterson St.,Valdosta, GA 31698 spec@valdosta.edu. The Spectator reserves the right to reject any classified ad. All ads are subject to standard editing procedures.The Spectator is
not responsible for ads submitted under false pretenses or for mistakes due to a submitted error. The categories for classifieds include: For Sale, Wanted, Roommates and Help Wanted.
For Sale STUDENTS: Have clothes or shoes taking up space, upgraded your phone, have left over textbooks, hate your lamp?Sell them here to other students. Run your ad of up to 40 words for FREE.
Yard Sale Friday & Sat 8-3, 5451 McLeod Dr, off Hwy 376, Lake Park, Women’s clothing, misc hand/power tools, Avon, books, small electronics/appliances, & misc.
For Rent 4bd/2bth HOUSE, 319 E. Park Ave. Good Neighborhood, Close to Main Campus, For more info call 229-292-4400.
For Rent
Services Pregnancy Wasn’t Part of the Plan
OPINIONS
NOVEMBER 15, 2O12
Our point of view...
VSUSPECTATOR.COM | PAGE 3
Secession didn’t work the first time W
ith 45 states petitioning to secede from the Union on a White House website, it’s safe to say America hasn’t come far since 1861. In the presidential election of 1860, Abraham Lincoln was chosen to lead the country and in response, southern states decided secede from the Union. More than 150 years later, we are back in the same position; however this time at the helm of a Democrat not a Republican. Ironically, “Republicans” were “Democrats” then. The succession was unsuccessful then and for some odd reason over a century later bitter conservatives think it will benefit now. These thousands or so petitioners feel like they’ve taking a step forward while in reality it’s a foolish, counter-productive step backwards.
The question is “do these people honestly believe their state will be in a better place without the supervision of federal government?” The loss of the abundant amount of funding would only weaken the states and the country itself. Sore loser voters need to take the time to realize that the Obama Administration intentionally set up the online petition that needs at least 25,000 signatures in 30 days to be considered. These uncorroborated signatures are just initials on the website that can’t even be tracked back to tell if that petitioner is a resident of the state or not. The President won’t take this seriously and only did this to become aware of the nation’s tribulations. David Crockett, a political science professor at Trinity University, agrees that this is national rebuff won’t last long.
“I'd be stunned if President Obama even mentions it,” Crockett said. “I suspect they'll give it to some flunky to respond about the legality or wisdom of secession. You get back out there and make your causes more palatable to people. You fight harder. You get better candidates, as opposed to doing something like this. I'm not saying you don't have the right to do this, but it's just blowing off steam.” All 50 states will likely join the petition thanks to upset citizens but what they fail to understand is what’s done is done. The election is over.
•North Dakota •Ohio •Oklahoma •Oregon •Pennsylvania •Rhode Island •South Carolina •South Dakota •Tennessee •Texas •Utah •Virginia •Washington •West Virginia •Wisconsin •Wyoming
•Louisiana •Maine •Michigan •Minnesota •Mississippi •Missouri •Montana •Nebraska •Nevada •New Hampshire •New Jersey •New Mexico •New York •North Carolina •North Dakota
•Alabama •Alaska •Arizona •Arkansas •California •Colorado •Delaware •Florida •Georgia •Idaho •Illinois •Indiana •Iowa •Kansas •Kentucky
I’d never thought I would see a fight for seccession in my lifetime and it’s quite ludicrous. Nobody is forcing you to support our president (even though you should), but simply to not tear apart the greatest country in
the world that took blood, J. Daniel Young /THE SPECTATOR sweat, and tears to build. On the behalf of The SpectaUnlike 1861, it won’t take tor staff, if you want to leave years of warfare for these disapthen pack your bags, our counpointing angry voter antics to try is better place without you. pass.
This editorial was written by Eric Jackson (epjackson@valdosta.edu) and it expresses the general opinion of the editorial staff.
Deck the halls with marijuana Stephen Cavallaro A S S I S TA N T- O P I N I O N S EDITOR
sjcavallaro@valdosta.edu
A
s the year comes to an end, progressivism sweeps through the United States. States across the country have pledged to take a stance to secure liberty for future generations. Their goal? To bring back and instill civil liberties for all citizens. A major tenet of the rising Libertarian Party is the legalization of marijuana. A situation that libertarian leader and former governor of New Mexico Gary Johnson promised would end the war on drugs with Mexico, lower arrests by 40 percent, reduce violence and provide the federal government with a sustainable new source of tax revenue. The U.S. has a history of marijuana legalization. California, for decades, has been more marijuana-friendly than Amsterdam, the cannabis capital of the world. Yet, state legislation over the last
few years has made even the possession of a single gram of marijuana extremely punishable. A once-thriving business, the sale of both medical and recreational marijuana has declined in California, as the federal government cracks down on our individual freedom of choice. In the Netherlands, while citizens are legally allowed to possess cannabis, only five grams can be sold to a non-foreign adult at any given time. After the recent election, marijuana has a new face in the U.S.. Three states voted whether or not to legalize recreational marijuana. Two states, Colorado and Washington, voted in favor of the substance. In addition, the people of Massachusetts voted in favor of medical marijuana. In Colorado and Washington, adults 21 and up may purchase up to an ounce of Marijuana from specialty stores regulated by a special division. The new laws will take affect by Dec. 6th in Washington, and no later than Dec. 23rd in
Colorado. Purchases made in Colorado will be taxed 15 percent with revenue going to public schools. In Washington, purchases will be taxed 25 percent with revenue going to public health programs. Both states also anticipate savings from not having to convict ingenuous marijuana users and growers. A Gallup poll conducted late last year reported that 50 percent of Americans believe the use of marijuana should be made legal. According to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, marijuana is less harmful than legal and widely used drugs such as alcohol and tobacco. In addition, marijuana provides medical benefits to cancer and AIDS patients. Despite staunch support for marijuana consumption, the federal government still considers the plant illegal, and possessors subject to a criminal offense even in Colorado and Washing-
People Poll: How do you feel about the outcome of the local election? MCT
ton. Yet, many people fear that due to the current administration’s opposition to this legislative victory, the national government will ruthlessly prevent the use of marijuana in the newly approved states. As citizens of the ‘free world,’ we must work together to promote freedom for all, and prevent the deconstruction of liberty that has been tearing this nation at the seams. When legislation such as the legalization of marijuana arises, we must take the initiative and do our civic duty by voting in favor of individual responsibility and independence.
Disrespecting leaders sacreligious David Lacy S TA F F
WRITER
dclacy@valdosta.edu
Last week, on the day after the election, there was a lot of hostility going on between parties. Republicans were mad because their candidate was not chosen, and Democrats celebrated a second term win. I was sitting in the student union that mornin, and overheard a conversation some people where having about the election. They were talking about how upset they were that Mitt Romney was not elected, and that if people were more educated, they would have voted for him. That brings me to two main issues I want to address about the
circumstances surrounding the election. According to huffingtonpost.com, more than 40 states have started petitions to secede from the union. I understand that these people are trying to make a point, but are any of them really serious about trying to start their own country? History has not been known to be kind to up and coming nations, and it usually leads to a lot of death and war. So calling someone uneducated or racist based on who they voted for is not only rude, it’s ignorant. It’s true that some people may know more than others about the government, and that some people don’t research what’s going
on with the election before voting—but all this should change. People should discuss it rather than getting mad. What good is yelling at people who don’t think the same way as you? The second point I wanted to bring up in all the post-election madness hits a little closer to home. It has to do with Christians being upset that Obama was re-elected. I understand that Obama stands for a lot of things that Christians don’t, but that does not give you as a Christian the right to disrespect him or his family. As Christians you are called in the Bible to respect the people that God has placed in authority over your life.
As a Christian you have to recognize that for whatever reason Obama was re-elected-- God has placed him in authority over this country that you are a part of. By saying he should not have been elected, you are essentially saying that you know more than God. Whether or not you like his policies is not the point--if you are calling yourself a Christian and cannot submit to the authority that has been placed in your life then it would be wise to ask yourself if you truly believe in the God of the Bible. Hate is not an attribute of a true believer, so honor the people in authority over you and through that let the love of Christ shine through you. Meditate on that.
Letter to the editor: Greek Adviser expresses concern about image of greek life. As the Spectator recently reported, there are conversations about adding another Interfraternity Council (IFC) chapter to campus, Alpha Kappa Lambda (AKL). In light of a recent article covering this expansion, I wanted to take a moment to clarify some key points about Greek Life. The recent article “IFC gains new fraternity” painted a picture of AKL as an ‘interracial chapter’ which would set it apart from other fraternities currently on
campus. An important fact to note is that while there are some Greek organizations that bring together men/women of a particular race/culture (the Multicultural Greek Council, which is not yet represented at VSU), AKL is not one of these organizations. There is not a single Greek letter organization that denies membership based on race, culture, ethnicity or creed. Each of the 23 Greek chapters that we have on this campus exists to bring together men and women under a shared set of values, independent of their skin color or heritage. Greek organizations are values based organizations first and so-
cial/philanthropic organizations second. “New fraternity” also mentioned a division or segregation of chapters and members. Two sororities were mentioned as being ‘multiracial’ because they have members of different races, however it is important to remember that diversity is much more than skin deep. Multiple Greek chapters at VSU have members of different backgrounds, cultures and ethnicities all sharing together in a common brotherhood/sisterhood. AKL is an IFC fraternity who has expressed interest in colonizing at VSU but has not yet peti-
tioned IFC to do so. If their petition is granted via a two-thirds vote of the member fraternities of the IFC, they will have a transition period before they are considered a chapter. AKL, like all other IFC chapters, is a values based organization and is open to members of different races, cultures, ethnicities and backgrounds who subscribe to those values.
Photo Editor: Amanda Usher Multimedia Editor: Joe Adgie Web Designer: Rebecka McAleer Copy Editor: Shambree Wartel Cartoonist: Garrison Muelhausen Development Editor: Chad Stone Faculty Advisers: Dr. Pat Miller, Dr. Ted Geltner, Keith Warburg Reporters/Photographers:
“It’s not good. From my experience with my family and friends that have struggled with this addiction, marijuana can lead you down a wrong path in life.”
Victor Sank senior chemistry major “If people voted for it and want it to be legal, then it should be”
Paul Guzman senior psychology major “I personally feel that if something isn’t bothering anyone it shouldn’t be illegal.”
Marshall Williams freshman mass media major “I believe marijuana has possible detrimental effects. I do not believe there have been enough clinical studies in regards to the safety in using such a substance.”
Adrianna Ehle senior communications major
Erin Sylvester Greek Life & Student Organizations Advisor
“It can be regulated and taxed. This is good for our economy.”
Contacting Us
Spectator Staff Editor-in-Chief: Amber Smith Managing Editor: Jennifer Gleason Business Manager: Brandon Mainer Advertising Manager: Aimee Napier Circulation Manager: Morgan McFarland Opinions Editor: J. Daniel Young Features Editor: Ariel Felton Sports Editor: Eric Jackson
Nicole Queen senior public relations major
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Online at www.vsuspectator.com Opinions expressed in the Spectator other than editorials are the opinions of the writers of signed columns and not necessarily those of the Spectator and its staff. All rights reserved. Reprints by permission of the editors. Views in this newspaper are not necessarily those of the Valdosta State University administration, faculty and staff.
PAGE 4 | VSUSPECTATOR.COM
FEATURES
NOVEMBER 15, 2012
More Than Just a Pretty Face 2012 Homecoming Queen involved in various organizations Amber Smith EDITOR-IN-CHIEF amsmith@valdosta.edu
Kyler cares. This was Kyler Dessau's slogan as she campaigned to be VSU's 2012 Homecoming Queen. This is more than a slogan for the senior psychology major, it's her way of life. Dessau attributes her winning the title of Homecoming Queen partly to this aspect of her character. Other members of the VSU community have picked up on Dessau’s extraordinary character, as well. “Kyler struck me as a motivated and charismatic leader,” Erin Sylvester, assistant director for Organizational Development, said. “It is evident that she is respected by her peers and she does not hesitate to point out injustices and attempt to rectify situations to the benefit of the entire VSU community.” Winning the title isn’t something that Dessau takes lightly. “I’ve been dreaming about this day since high school,” she said. “I want to take the opportunity to thank the campus for their votes. It really was a dream come true for me, I am honored to wear VSU's crown and I want the campus to know how truly grateful I am.” But Dessau plays many more roles on campus than just Homecoming Queen. She is a member of VSU's Theta Tau chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, a historically black sorority geared around sisterhood, scholarship and service. “Delta Sigma Theta is a notfor profit Greek-lettered sorority of college-educated women who perform public service and place
emphasis on the African American community,” she said. “The Theta Tau Chapter does tons of community service and really has a heart for the community. Every Thanksgiving we fund and serve a Thanksgiving dinner to a family in need." While they are not limited to working with one organization, Greek organizations on campus typically focus on one organization or awareness project for the year's philanthropy. This year, Delta Sigma Theta’s philanthropy is Autism.
“I want to take the opportunity to thank the campus for their votes. It really was a dream come true for me, I am honored to wear VSU's crown and I want the campus to know how truly grateful I am.” - KYLER DESSAU 2012 HOMECOMING QUEEN
Dessau’s involvement with Greek Life goes even beyond her sorority involvement. She now serves as National Pan-Hellenic Council President (NPHC) and is strongly focused on Greek Unity. According to Dessau, the purpose of NPHC is “unanimity of thought and action as far as possible in the conduct of Greek letter collegiate fraternities and sororities, and to consider problems of mutual interest to its member organizations.” Dessau has long been an ad-
like to build organizational leadership programs within It is evident that companies to help rebuild them concretely, encourage she is respected by more of a team working atmosphere, and to make their her peers and she working environment more does not hesitate to pleasant. In order for employees to work at to their point injustices and highest capabilities, they attempt to rectify need to be in an atmosphere that’s welcoming to that.” situations to the In keeping with her debenefit of the entire sire to help people, Dessau came to VSU with a desire VSU community . to study psychology. - ERIN SYLVESTER “One of the key decidORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ing factors of me choosing this University was all of the hearings. positive things I heard about the “I’d think that you would be psychology program,” she said. more relaxed with your peers, “I Took AP Psychology in high but the reputation we have on school, after taking the class and campus is that we have an "abpassing the AP exam, I decided solute no tolerance" [policy] as the VSU J-Board so some people to study it in college on a deeper do choose to have an administra- level.” Psychology wasn’t the only tive hearing instead,” Dessau reason she came to VSU. Dessau said. toured many campuses, but final“We really want to ensure that ly fell in love with the scenery VSU students are enjoying their here. campus life and we make sure “It’s a beautiful campus,” she that others aren’t inhibiting stuAmber Smith / THE SPECTATOR said. “VSU has one of the cleanKyle Dessau, senior psychology major, was crowned 2012 Homecoming dents from enjoying their acadest campuses in Georgia.” Queen Oct. 20. Dessau is an active member of VSU’s Theta Tau chapter emic experience.” Another solidifying reason to of Delta Sigma Theta and a Chief Justice of SGA’s Judicial Branch. “It’s not about punishing you,” vocate of Greek unity and shown sible for handling peer hearings she explained. “It’s an education- come to VSU was Dessau’s passtrong school spirit. for students who have violated al experience with the purpose of sion for leadership. “[…] when doing research “I first met Kyler during my the University Code of Conduct. identifying if a student/ organizaabout VSU, I heard they offered first few days at VSU,” Sylvester Students who commit such intion is not on the right track. If an Emerging Leaders Program said. “She was a welcoming fractions have the choice of gonot, then we want to help you.” here, and just the fact that they steward of VSU and NPHC spirit ing before this Judicial Board or Ultimately, helping people is had a leadership program for inand she and the vice president of an administrative hearing. what Dessau is all about. coming freshman made a big imNPHC and I went out to lunch to “[The Judicial Board] inter“There’s a lot I want to do,” pression on me,” she said. talk about the council and Greek prets the Student Code of Conshe said. “I’m thinking about “Since my involvement in that life as a whole. From that conduct [and] determines the facts getting my Master’s in Leaderleadership program, my college versation has grown a Greek by reviewing police reports, witship then my Doctorate in Orgaexperience has been very fulfillUnity initiative that I hope will ness statements, accusations nizational Leadership. Eventualing. I’ve been able to develop leave a lasting change at VSU.” from the accuser and/or faculty,” ly I would like to have my own and polish my leadership and inDessau’s list of involvement Dessau said. “[It then] makes motivational speaking company. terpersonal skills and put my on campus doesn’t end here, eirecommendations of sanctions to I want travel, so if and when the hands to work in many different ther. She is also the Chief Justice the Dean of Students Office.” opportunity presents itself, I will organizations that helped build of SGA’s Judicial Branch. Dessau said that most students travel with my company to difme into the woman I am today.” The Judicial Board is respongiven the option choose peer ferent countries. I also would
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Check out the Spec Tech blog for a review of Steven’s second favorite video game of all time and don’t forget about extra features on the web, including a review of VSU student, Michael Schwartz’ newest album!
SPORTS
NOVEMBER 15, 2012
VSUSPECTATOR.COM | PAGE 5
Sudoku A
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Blood Drive 118 units > 103 units This is the 3rd straight year the Blazers have won the competition.
Want to attend the playoff game? Austen Hutto/THESPECTATOR Junior wide reciever Regginald Lewis catches a ball during practice. Lewis has contributed four touchdowns and over 600 receiving yards for the Blazers this season.
VSU football looking for its first title in five years Eric Jackson S P O RT S
EDITOR
epjackson@valdosta.edu
The last time the Valdosta State football was ranked No.1 heading into the NCAA Super Region II playoffs, the Blazers came away with a national championship. Five years later, they’re hoping to do what they did last time they graced the number one spot. “Hopefully we can repeat that,” David Dean, head coach, said. “It doesn’t mean anything if you can’t line up and play.” As long as they continue to win, VSU will have home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Quarterback Cayden Cochran has learned a lot from last year’s disappointing three game losing streak to end the season forcing them to miss the playoffs. “A full team effort that’s what it took,” Cochran said. “We have pushed and put ourselves in a good position. After finishing last season with just 948 passing yards and
eight touchdowns, this season he has recorded 1837 passing yards and 19 touchdowns. Cochran credits getting acclimated with teammates and coaches fin the off-season for his improved performance this season. The winner of the Miles/ UWA game will be the next opponent the Blazers will host November 24th. “I want to play against West Alabama,” Cochran said. “I’ve played against them twice and haven’t had a good game those times. As a team we want to play them again because they won conference. I’m sure they want to play us again for getting top seed.” VSU hasn’t looked back following their last loss to West Alabama over a month ago and is riding a six-game winning streak. The Blazers have earned the luxury of having a bye week as injured players are getting extra time to rehabilitate and others are polishing off their skills in the three week break. Harlon Hill trophy finalist
Since its a NCAA game, it won’t be free to students. Student Affairs has purchased 500 free tickets for game on Nov. 24th. Pick up a ticket at the SA office (third floor, Student Union). This offer last until next Tuesday. *A vaild and current VSU ID is required and one ticket will be given out per student.
wide receiver Gerald Ford has also been one of the key reasons for the Blazers’ success. Ford last season was academically ineligible and has turned it around in his redemption season being named one of the finalists for an award given to the nation’s best Division II player. “I worked real hard to get back from my ACL surgery to just battling in the classroom. It doesn’t mean much to me. I like to put it more around the team. I want a ring over a Harlon Hill any day,” said Ford. While Coach Dean says he doesn’t care who the next opponent will be, he couldn’t deny the sweet taste of revenge. “They won it outright, they beat us and went undefeated in the conference,” said Dean. “It would be some satisfaction for us knowing that we did beat the Gulf South Conference and advance in the playoffs. You play the entire season to make the playoffs, this is when it all counts, this is the new season. If we can beat them in this part of the season then that’s when we want to beat them.”
CYAN MAGENTA
new U Even
YELLOW BLACK
new U Odd
PAGE 6 | VSUSPECTATOR.COM
SPORTS
VSU ready for Wildcats Ace Espenshied S P O RT S
NOVEMBER 15, 2012
Annual fundrasier supports Blazers
WRITER
acespenshied@valdosta.edu
In a rematch of last year’s first round of the Division II South Region tournament, the injury plagued Blazers take on Fort Valley State tonight in Fort Valley, Ga. The ladies kicked off their season with a 64-51 victory over Trinity Baptist last Saturday. Kamyia Smith, junior point guard, is new to VSU this season but led the team with 15 points in the season opener. Smith, along with freshman Jasmine Mapp, was picked as top newcomers in the Gulf South Conference. The Lady Blazers with a thin bench due to several injuries. Coach Kiley Hill says that the team needs more chemistry because the team does not have a lot of experience. “We’ve got to develop experience,” Coach Hill said. “We are bitten by injuries. We basically have seven or eight healthy kids out of our thirteen. It’s a matter of continuity and getting kids experience and then figuring out what our strengths are with the small numbers that we have.” Along with Smith, the other two added 10 points each were freshman, Courtney Sprague and junior, Derricka Griffis. As Coach Hill starts to learn how these players mix, the Lady Blazers will earn their experience. Tonight’s game will be Fort Valley States first game of the season as they look to get revenge on the Lady Blazers for ending their season last year. Coach Hill noted that offensive rebounds would be the key
Kellan Rhone S P O RT S W R I T E R
kdrhone@valdosta.edu
VSU's Men's Basketball team will be hosting a fundraiser called the 2012 Friends of VSU's Men's Basketball Classic which includes an auction, dinner, and a golf tournament to help meet the budget for their program. The fundraiser spans two days for the three events that they will be hosting. On Thursday, they will be having a steak dinner and a live and silent auction from 5-8 p.m. at the Elks Club. On Friday, they will also host a four-person gold scramble at the Valdosta Country Club at 8 a.m.
Austen Hutto/THESPECTATOR Head Coach Kiley Hill addresses his players during practice. The Blazers are looking for another run towards a national championship again this season.
to netting the Lady Blazer’s second win. “We’ve got to limit the offensive boards for them and keep them off of those opportunities,” Hill said . “They are going to come out and press and do so many different things, so our ability to handle pressure and our ability to do
a good job rebounding are going to be the most important keys.” Last season the Lady Blazers’ went 22-8 and 10-4 in Gulf South Conference play and they went farther than any other team in the GSC in the NCAA Division II tournament. Despite their post-season success, VSU was voted to finish
third in the GSC this season. They won’t play their first conference game until November 29th, but in today’s game the Lady Blazers can show they belong higher than third.
"It's a fundraiser that we do every year in the fall, and all the proceeds go to support our program," Nick Gast, associate head coach of the men's basketball team, said. "In the state of Georgia, athletics aren't funded by the states so it's private money that helps us." Gast explained the certain events that they would be hosting. Anyone is invited to these events. To attend the dinner, the price is $25 per person. To play in the Golf Tournament on Friday, the price is $125 per person, and to attend both events is $150 per person. The event will be capped off with the men’s game Friday night against Carver at home in the P.E. Complex.