March 14, 2013
W W W. V S U S P E C TAT O R . C O M
Inside This Issue - FEATURES: “Greeks to ‘stomp the yard’ in Student Union”
SAlAt Al-dHUHr Student Union Conference room 1, 1:45 p.m. Afternoon prayer will be held Monday through thursday throughout this semester.this event is open to the community. Hosted by the muslim Students Association. SCreeninG: “mooz-lUm” Student Union theater, 7-8:30 p.m. this screening of the 2011 film “Mooz-Lum” is open to the public. Hosted by the muslim Students Association.
w w w. v s u s p e c ta t o r. c o m
See pg. 2 to learn more about Argentinian Pope Francis.
- SPORTS: “Blazer baseball torches Saints”
Greekdom Step/Stroll Competition - Student Union Ballrooms, 7-10 p.m. VSU Greeks will battle for three rounds to win the cash prize. tickets may be reserved by emailing your name and the number of tickets needed to fierynupes@yahoo.com. Hosted by kappa Alpha psi
On the Web
New pope chosen
- OPINIONS: “SGA not the VSU money machine”
Today at VSU
VOLUME 84 ISSUE 22
Check out Dowling Payne’s coverage of VSU H.E.R.O.’s “Rock Your Red” event!
Public ring sale angers players Eric Jackson S p o rt S E d i to r epjackson@valdosta.edu
A business partnership between the VSU athletic department and Jostens inc. has left many members of the recently crowned national champion football team feeling bitter. VSU Athletics and Jostens inc. are offering the public the opportunity to purchase several different memorabilia jewelry items, including an authentic division ii national championship ring. the ring, priced at $500, is identical to the ring the players earned for their successful season. the majority of the team is
less than pleased with the newly offered merchandise. “people are going to have rings on that we earned and the whole football team [doesn’t] really think that it’s fair,” safety Chris Caspari said. “You got some people walking around who don’t even come to a foot ball game and just buy a ring just showing it off when really they didn’t earn that. “Honestly, i don’t think they should be for sale but i think they should raise the price so no one wants to buy one. You can take away a ring but you can never take away the satisfaction of winning it.” though this isn’t the first time individuals outside of cheerleaders and band members have been
be able to acquire championship team rings, no other VSU championship winning team has ever had their prized jewelry so publicized. Advertisements for the national championship jewelry included a mass email sent to students and faculty last week from event services. numerous former and current players voiced their opinions on twitter. one player tweeted “its a slap in the face if you ask me,” while another tweeted “yall didn’t earn that shit.” Athletic director Herb reinhard assumes that the disgruntled players aren’t aware of the financial realities of the situation. See RING, Page 5
The above photo was sent in an advertisement to the VSU Students Distribution Group via Valdosta State email. All students receive messages sent to this group.
Spring football practice draws to close Eric Jackson S p o rt S E d i to r epjackson@valdosta.edu
the Valdosta State football team is one step closer to the fall after the completion of spring practice. the Blazers concluded the 14 practice schedule with the Spring Game this past Saturday. A trip to the Georgia State Capitol, to commemorate the national champions, and making a team ‘Harlem Shake’ video were some fun additions to this year’s spring outings however everything on the gridiron remained the same as last year. “Coach dean likes doing it like he’s done in the past it obviously works so it was pretty much the same,” quarterback Cayden Cochran said. “We had good intensity. i think there is a different kind of focus this year now because we have something behind us pushing us to go get it again.” Spring practice is the time for players to jump back into the swing of things giving certain players chances to standout and show their worth.
CAriBBeAn FeSt portrAitS - Student Union Ballroom A, 6-10 p.m. free tropical themed photo opportunity with giveaways for VSU students. Hosted by CAB.
Weather Today Sunny 62 H 38 L
Friday Sunny 74 H 48 L
Saturday Sunny 79 H 51 L
Question of the week The Ga. House of representatives is considering new legislation regarding guns on campus. What are your thought on the issue?
Dowling Payne / The SPecTaTor
Blazer football players take a knee during practice. The team prepares to defend their national championship in the fall.
See PRACTICE, Page 6
Two trees removed McKinney from front lawn speaks out against HB29 Will Lewis
A S S t. M A n A G i n G Editor walewis@valdosta.edu
A. I would feel much safer carrying my gun. B. Guns have no place on our campus. C. Open carry should be allowed, but not concealed weapons. D. No one should be allowed to carry guns anywhere. Vote online at www.vsuspectator.com!
Last Week’s Poll Results Are you ready for midterms? I’ve already taken all of my midterms.
57%
No! I think I’m gonna fail.
17%
Yep. I’ve been preparing for weeks
13%
My classes don’t have midterms
13%
Anthony Pope S tA f f W r i t E r agpope@valdosta.edu
on tuesday, VSU president William McKinney announced his opposition to Georgia House Bill 29, called Georgia Campus Carry Act, a bill that would permit firearms on colleges and universities. in the email, which was sent to all VSU faculty, staff and students, dr. McKinney, along with the Board of regents, pledged his support for the existing law, which does not permit firearm activity on campuses and universities. With the recent occurrence of several mass killings involving guns, legislators have been more focused on gun legislation. ray Jackson, a VSU graduate student, believes in gun ownership. “i believe people have the right to the amendments that are listed in the constitution,” Jackson said. “the second amendment gives citizens the right to bear arms and as an American living in America, i should be al-
lowed to carry my weapon wherever i go.” But not everyone agrees with Jackson. ruben Brooks, a senior exercise physiology major, feels that a law permitting the use of guns on campuses will lead to an unsafe environment. “i feel that people need the proper training if they are going to be able to carry guns on campus,” Brooks said. “if we have people walking around who don’t know how to operate a gun then that could lead to a whole lot of problems.” other students believe that there could be other beneficial matters that could be taken before resorting to passing the bill. tiffany Wynn, a junior mass media major, feels as if guns wouldn’t be needed on campuses if the university had better physical protection. “i think that they are not needed on campus,” Wynn said. “Maybe if we get gates on campus that would lead to a safer environment.” the Georgia House of representatives will meet again at 9:30 a.m. today.
VSU’s department of landscaping and grounds plans to replace the two trees that formerly stood in front of West Hall. the two trees were mortally damaged earlier last month after framing the university building for over 20 years. “they were split right down the middle,” Brett Ganas, assistant director of landscape and grounds, said. the split developed as a result of both trees lacking a central leader. “A central leader tree is characterized by one main, upright trunk, referred to as the leader,” according to the north Carolina State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. the lack of a central leader was not a problem until, as the trees grew, they slowly began to pull themselves apart at an “acute angle.” “our intention at first was to save them,” Ganas said. the University bound the trees with straps in the hope that they would mend and could continue to grow. After consulting with arborists
Will Lewis / The SPecTaTor
Two trees were removed from the front lawn last week due to the lack of a “central leader” to stabilize their trunks. duane Cunningham, of Cunningham tree Service, and Mark McCellan the decision was made to cut down the trees and replace them with saplings with central leaders. the trees are expected to be replaced by May of this year during the planting of over 90 trees around campus. VSU Landscape and Grounds plans to plant 73 dogwood and redbud trees as well as 20 longleaf pines. ten of these trees have al-
ready been planted on north Campus next to pound Hall. the rest are expected to be distributed among the longleaf pine forest already in place behind Langdale Hall, and along the creek in between Lowndes Hall and the fine Arts Building. the sapling planting, a joint effort between the biology department and the department of landscape and grounds, is scheduled to continue on throughout the year.
News
PAge 2 | vsusPeCtAtoR.CoM
First elected Argentinian Pope gains interest at VSU Joe Adgie SoCial Media editor jmadgie@valdosta.edu
a new pope has been named, and representatives from the Newman Center are cautiously optimistic about what this pope will do for the Catholic Church. Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, 76, was elected pope on Wednesday, and took on the title Pope Francis. Francis is the first Pope not from europe, hailing from Buenos aires, argentina. “it’s interesting that he’s not italian or German or Polish,” Gary Moulliet, resident at the Newman Center (VSU’s Catholic center), said. Moulliet expressed hope that Francis’s run as pope would equal that of John Paul ii’s, who was pope from 1978 until his
death in 2005. “i liked how John Paul ii was doing more youth events,” Moulliet said. “i hope that the new pope continues that and does a little bit more with the youth, because i feel like there’s a generation gap in the Catholic church.” Moulliet also expressed hope that the new pope would handle the issue of pedophilia within the Catholic Church “responsibly,” while covering up the issue less than his predecessor. “What a lot of people have to realize is that the Catholic Church is set up like a governing body--with any governing body, there is a certain amount of cover up, both good and bad,” Moulliet said. “i hope that he tackles it head-on, and deals with it. [i hope that] he states truthfully that, yeah, we’re aware of the problem, and we’re dealing with it, and we’ll let you
MARCH 14, 2013 Police Briefs
March 12 Student reported her headphones were stolen from the front desk of lowndes Hall. the headphones were later left at the front desk for the student to pick up. March 11 a car was egged while parked in the oak parking lot.
a bicycle was reported stolen to VSUPd. March 9 a bicycle was stolen while it was parked in front of langdale Hall. a suspect with outstanding warrants was found loitering outside Hopper circle.
March 6 Shoes were reported stolen from Campus recreation. Student reported their book was stolen by someone they know, and the suspect sold their book to lee’s Bookstore. there is videotaped evidence of the act.
Upcoming Events MCT
know of our developments as we get them. it’s not something you can definitely say yes or no, or ok, we know all of them, because you never know.” Moulliet also expressed hope that the pope could help people understand that these incidents were “sins of people that are fallible, not infallible, and that it does not reflect the message and the overall religion, as much as it reflects the individual sins that we need to conquer within our own hearts.”
March 15 VSU Planetarium presents “the Clouds of Magellan,” the fifth public planetarium show of its 2012-2013 season. Nevins Hall room 3004, third floor there will be three showings that evening at 7, 8 and 9 p.m. March 23, 9 a.m. to noon Science Saturday: “What a Wonderful World” for middle school students and the community Nevins Hall includes: planetarium shows, sun observing, geocaching, fun with physics and more. March 26, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Spring Career expo University Center employers will recruit for both full-time and part-time.
Graphic by: Joe Adgie
March 26, 7 to 11 p.m. Core hosts a Crate Stacking Competition Prizes include: hammocks, slacklines and more. Campus Recreation Contact Core at Core@valdosta.edu for more information. March 27, 5 p.m. Get a free Chick-Fil-a sandwich for participating in VSU dining’s dining advisory Meeting Student Union Conference Room 2 this is an opportunity for the campus community to say what does and doesn’t need improvement! Contact VSU dining at vstatedining@valdosta.edu to reserve a seat. March 30, 9 a.m. relay for life hosts a disc golf tournament Freedom Park registration begins at 8 a.m., shotgun starts at 9 a.m. entry fee is $25 per person which includes a disc of your choice. Contact Kris (kcearp@valdosta.edu) at 300-9148 for more information.
University Spring Break Hours Student Union March 15: Closes at 3 p.m. March 16-17: Closed March 18-22: open 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. March 23: Closed March 24: open 11 a.m.-11 p.m. All University offices will remain open during regular hours.
Palms
Friday 3/15 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Mon- Thurs 3/18 - 3/21 Closed
Sunday 3/24 4:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Monday 3/25 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Hopper
Closed
Closed
Closed
Noon - 10 p.m.
Pinkberry
Closed
Closed
Closed
Noon - 10 p.m.
Papa John’s
Closed
Closed
Closed
11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Moe’s
Closed
Closed
5 p.m. - 11 p.m.
11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Starbucks
7 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Closed
Closed
7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Chick-Fil-A Student Union
7 a.m. - 3 p.m.
8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Closed
7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Nathan’s
Closed
Closed
Closed
11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Einstein’s
7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Closed
Closed
7:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Blazing Brew
Closed
Closed
Closed
8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sustella
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Closed
6 p.m. - 11 p.m.
9 p.m. - 2 a.m.
Langdale
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Closed
6 p.m. - 11 p.m.
9 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Chick-Fil-A UC
Closed
Closed
Closed
9 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Chef’s Table
Closed
Closed
Closed
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Baja Flats
7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Closed
Closed
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
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For Rent
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House for Rent 4 bd/2 bth, 319 E. Park Ave. $800 per month with $720 security deposit. 10% off with Student ID. Close to main campus, and good neighborhood. Call: 229-292-4400.
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LOOK: House for Lease - Upgraded, like new – 4 bedrooms/ 2 full baths, deck & spacious parking. Bicycle or walk to campus. Washer, dryer, disposal $1,460/month or $365/student for 4 students. suitelivingrentals.com or 770-887-8488.
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Pregnancy Wasn’t Part of the Plan
OpiniOns
mARch 14, 2013
vSuSpectAtoR.com | pAGe 3
Our point of view...
SGA, not the VSU money machine M
oney doesn’t grow on trees—we all know that. that’s why when the ras from Centennial Hall requested $1,000 for food for an upcoming carnival, despite the fact that they had their own designated budget , SGa was right in denying the funding. the role of SGa is to serve as a liaison between the students and VSU, not as a money tree. it’s true that campus organizations have needs, and most of those needs require financial assistance, but if SGa were to give in to every whim and re-
quest from every organization on campus, they would not only not be able to fund anybody— they’d be in debt themselves. SGa President ryan Baerwalde felt that the denial for Centennial Hall funding was necessary to stop the widespread belief that SGa was an open bank for student organizations. “for the past three years that i have served in SGa, i have witnessed dozens of student organizations come to SGa asking for financial help, and there was rarely any resistance to obliging these groups,” Baerwalde said.
“thankfully, this year i have seen more thought put into our funding.” that being said, it is the duty of SGa to not only keep the student’s best interests in mind, but to serve its student’s responsibly—especially concerning financial decisions. SGa’s current policy on funding events limits the funding amount to $500, but can be overridden with a 3/4ths vote. five hundred dollars should be enough to meet whatever need the organization has, especially if it’s not purely recreational. if not, and their event
Receiving funding is a privilege...SGA is a ruling body, and not daddy’s open wallet is important enough, then they need to show enough initiative to collect the rest of the needed funds in a fundraiser of some sort. We’re not saying that SGa should act like the big bad wolf per se, but we agree that SGa should only give funds to organizations that a, plan to use the
funds for more than recreational purposes, and b, don’t already have a budget that includes funds from student fees. events are required to be open to all students and to have a detailed list as to how they are spending the money. Organizations are also required to send excess funds back to SGa.
auditors from the University System of Georgia enforce these policies and make sure that money is spent and allocated appropriately. We feel this is an effective rule-- this way the money not spent by the organization won’t fall in between the cracks. “i'm sure we will see more progress in our fiscal responsibility before the year ends,” Baerwalde said. receiving funding is a privilege, not a right. So organizations need to understand that SGa is a ruling body, and not daddy’s open wallet.
This editorial was written by Shambree Wartel (snwartel@valdosta.edu) and it expresses the general opinion of the editorial staff.
Wage change underway Spectator staff writers debate minimum wage James Washington S ta f f W r i t e r jawashington@valdosta.edu
Welcome to the United States of america, a land based on supply and demand. it seems, however, that while consumer demands are met, the necessities of the workers are overlooked. the prices of services and goods continue to rise, yet the hands that make these products are paid in scraps. in 1968 the minimum wage was raised to $1.60. Over 50 years later, the minimum wage has only been raised $5.65. in fact, after inflation adjustments, the minimum wage of 1968 would be close to $10.30 today. Perhaps we can try to come close. During his State of the Union address on feb. 12, President Obama proposed raising the minimum wage to $9 an hour. He stated that the government should “tie the minimum wage to the cost of living so that it finally becomes a wage (the people can) live on.” today, a full-time employee making minimum wage in the United States brings home an average of $14,500 a year. this figure barely puts that employee over the poverty line of $11,490. Nearly 53 percent of college graduates are either unemployed or working a job that does not require a college degree. in other words, after all their hard work, college graduates are left with one of two options. they can either luck up and find a job in their field or settle for a job that has nothing to do with their major and accept pennies on the dollar in relation to what was paid to obtain a degree. this situation poses a problem. according to forbes.com, the average college student leaves
their university with over $27,000 in debt. How can a college graduate ever be expected to pay off student loans working at McDonald’s? it is not their fault that the work is not available. Without an increase in job availability, an increase in minimum wage is the least that can be done. Many people choose not to
work and live off the government. their reasons may never be known. What is known, however, is that $7.25 is a slap in the face of hard workers. also, raising minimum wage would eventually lead to more americans being self-sufficient. in other words, there would be less americans on welfare, food stamps, or in need of other government aid. everyone should be able to support themselves. the government’s help should be a last resort. the cost of living is constantly rising. Just keep in mind that $7.25 makes jumping to that last resort feel much more plausible.
Taylor Stone S ta f f W r i t e r tnstone@valdosta.edu
How do you feel when you think about the proposed increase of minimum wage? as a student, your immediate emotion is probably one of approval, and why wouldn’t it be? What logic could anyone possibly provide to reject promised economic growth and alleviation from poverty, especially when our president keeps every
promise he makes, right? the State of the Union address is a tradition intended to hype up americans, to get them excited about the president’s plans, promising that the best days in america are the ones to come. With that kind of rhetoric, everything sounds positive, but behind every proposal lies false hope for the future. On feb. 12, President Obama proposed that an increase of minimum wage to nine dollars an hour would “build new ladders of opportunity into the middle class.” He promised that it would help businesses across the country and increase employment which would, in turn, help to rescue people from poverty.
in reality a minimum wage increase will actually raise unemployment, and the proof lies in basic economics. the laws of supply and demand govern the labor market with the intersection of the two determining the minimum wage. Government mandates interfere with this. employers will hire less people at a higher wage and more people at a lower wage, and the former inevitably causes an increase in unemployment. the reasons for supporting a minimum wage increase are certainly well intentioned, but the method proposed to achieve those goals has never worked and never will. it's obvious that the poor are suffering in a tough economy, but raising the minimum wage won’t help them because increased business costs are either passed on to the consumer or absorbed through cuts in labor. another dirty little secret is that many union wages are formulated based on a multiplier of the minimum wage, so it's no mystery as to why unions vote overwhelmingly Democrat and why Democrats overwhelmingly support raising the minimum wage. individuals who support the increase are typically those more interested in rhetoric rather than results. it is always easy for politicians to support a policy that sounds great in a speech and scores them political points when it will never affect them personally. is it fair to raise minimum wage as a ploy to gain political points on a popular issue while employers, consumers and the newly unemployed suffer as a result? No. it is a deceitful approach that hides the true dangers of the policy while appearing to be compassionate. Ultimately, raising the minimum wage will make it more expensive for businesses to hire new employees and retain current employees at a time when new jobs are most needed. But hey, it sounds good, right?
Guns on Campus? Huckaby unequivocally stated on March 4 that all 31 University Presidents (including their campus security chiefs and counselors) are opposed to HB 512. Not one gun-related crime has been committed on our campus since i joined the faculty in the fall of 2000, yet some are trying to take advantage of a tragedy at an elementary school to advance their agenda? Can you spell Cr-a-Z-Y? i don’t know about you, but i
wholeheartedly support the Board of regents, the Chancellor of the University System of Georgia, and our very own President Dr. McKinney in their March 12 statement which reads: "We are deeply concerned about proposed legislation in the Georgia General assembly that would permit firearms on our campuses - in our classrooms, student centers, and our academic and administrative buildings. We firmly believe the current law promotes
Sports Editor: eric Jackson Photo Editor: Cody Hicks Multimedia Editor: Von Kennedy Web Designer: rebecka Mcaleer Copy Editor: Shambree Wartel Cartoonist: Garrison Muelhausen Social Media Editor: Joe adgie Faculty Advisers: Dr. Pat Miller, Dr. ted Geltner, Keith Warburg
"i feel that people fear others different than them no matter where they are from."
Travis Brasington sophomore media production major “Yes, people are scared of foreign things because they just don’t understand it.”
Pierre Evans senior office administration and technology major “Yes, most feel that they are open and tolerant towards foreign cultures, however the truth is most are very ignorant about these cultures and people.”
“No, americans aren’t. i think most americans are open to viewing other cultures and what they have to offer.”
a safe learning environment for out students and working environment for our faculty and staff. Our unanimous recommendation is to retain the law in its current form…." So here is an idea for a belated 50th birthday present for Dr. McKinney. Google “Georgians tell the state no on HB 512” and sign the petition at SignOn.org.
Amber Grant sophomore psychology major “Yes, americas are xenophobic because americans just don’t like other people.”
Michael G. Noll VSU faculty
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Caleb Brown freshman graphic design major
Taylor Grell freshman speech pathology major
Letter to the editor recently the Georgia House of representatives passed HB 512 which (should the Senate agree) would make it legal for everyone with a permit to carry concealed guns on campus. Now hunting and gun ownership may be as american as apple pie, but so is gun control and icons like Wyatt earp, the legendary Wild West figure who enforced Dodge City's ban on gun-carrying within town limits. there are good reasons why USG Chancellor
People Poll: Are most Americans Xenophobic? Why?
Reporters/Photographers: Derrick Davis, Veronica Dominicis, allison ericson, ace espenshied, Neil frawley, Brian Hickey Jr., ivey ingalls-rubin, Jessica ingram, Chris Kessler, Will Lewis, Olivia McLean, ritsuki Miyazaki, ray Pack Jr. anthony Pope, John Preer, Quasha ross, isaiah Smart, taylor Stone, Shane thomas alex tostado, Jamal tull Sarah turner, James Washington, Steven Setser
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Features
PAGe 4 | vsusPeCtAtoR.CoM
MARCH 14, 2013
Student awarded trip to South Korea Sarah Turner S TA F F W R i T E R
seturner@valdosta.edu
VSU biology major Matthew Rivera has been awarded the Council on international Educational Exchange South Korea scholarship. The scholarship will pay for his biology major, religious studies minor and will include a spring break in South Korea.
Rivera, 21, expects to graduate spring 2014. He also currently works as a certified pharmacy technician and maintains a 4.0 GPA. “it is very rare for a science major to travel abroad,” irina McClellan, assistant director of the Center for international Programs, said. McClellan described Rivera as an exemplary student who isn’t afraid to step out of his comfort zone.
Rivera will spend March 1726 at the Yonsei University in Seoul. Rivera and his fellow scholars will attend academic lectures, tour the city and explore important areas in South Korea. in order to receive the scholarship, Rivera had to have little or no previous exposure to Korean culture. However, Rivera was still able to get some inside information on what to expect during his spring break.
“i actually had supper with several students at VSU who are from South Korea--at Waffle House of all places,” Rivera said. CiEE received hundreds of applications from across the nation including nine applicants from VSU. However, there were only 40 spaces available. Rivera had to send his application off with a $150 application fee. While his mother was supportive of her son applying for the scholarship, she was also
very protective. Nonetheless, Rivera knew who he wanted to tell first when he heard the news of his award. “The first thing i did when i got off work was call my mom and say, ‘Mom, guess where i’m going for spring break,’” Rivera said. Rivera looks up to his mother, who he says is his “biggest cheerleader” as well as his professors. “i think that a student is a sum
of all their teachers,” Rivera said. While Rivera is solely a science major, he also enjoys learning about his minor in religious studies. Rivera agrees with his adviser, Dr. J. Mitchell Lockhart, who believes in having a profession as well as a passion. This summer, Rivera plans to apply to medical school at the Medical College of Georgia.
Transition into Blazer heats up the radio air waves spring smoothly C add Layers
L
et’s be honest, we live in a part of the country that basically has two seasons, so wardrobe transitioning for us is easier than it is for others. Lately, the weather in South Georgia has been a little spastic—leading to confusion about clothing choices. Some days it feels like spring has arrived with cloudless skies and near 80- degree temperatures, but it isn’t here yet. Just because it feels like spring, does not mean it’s time to bring out the flip-flops and shorts! it’s important to dress appropriately for the season you’re in. Here are three essential things you should take heed to in order to make sure that you transition in spring the right way.
Layering is the easiest way to stay on top of a wishy-washy weather forecast. No matter how many times the weather changes within a day, you can always add or take off layers. Lightweight scarves and cardigans are perfect for this time of year. add spring items gradually Just because retailers begin putting out their spring merchandise early does not mean that you have to overdo it with wearing your spring gear when the weather gets a little warm. if you must, go ahead and wear that new spring dress and add a cute leather jacket or tights and booties. Use bright accessories Adding bright accessories is probably the easiest way to add a little spring to your fall wardrobe. Try a bright pair of skinny jeans and add a pop of color in a scarf or bright jewelry.
Fine Arts holds reception for student competition
laire Contevita is not your average college student. Within a minute of conversation, you can see the drive that keeps her moving forward toward her goals and dreams. Her father was in the Air Force so she quickly grew accustomed to moving around and found herself in Georgia. in high school, Contevita had one passion-- fashion. She always dreamed of becoming a magazine editor and came to college as an English major. This soon changed when she entered a radio station with her friend during her sophomore year. As soon as Contevita put on the headphones, she was hooked. “it was a feeling i can’t explain,” Contevita said. She quickly changed her major and has been working toward a mass media degree ever since. Growing up, Contevita never had a relationship with her bio-
Check out the web Wonder which band that columnist Rebecka McAleer finds totally awesome this week? Go to vsuspectator.com to read “Additive Noise” and see who got her interest. While you’re there, also read Anthony Drake’s review on “The Next Day,” Allison Ericson’s preview for Hilary Lee’s music recital, Neil Frawley’s coverage of band Sam Sniper’s visit and more.
Pop Addict Anthony Pope
Veronica Dominicis/THE SPECTATOR An attendee at the reception to view the all-media juried student competition views an entry at the Fine Arts building Monday. The gallery will be open to the public until April 5, and features art from students of all majors.
From the backwoods to New York, apparently Lil’ Kim doesn’t like it when you talk about how her face looks similar to when you let a 3-year-old use the blur tool on Photoshop. The Queen Bee took aim at talk-show host Wendy Williams on Twitter when Wendy tweeted she would be discussing Kim’s face after pictures surfaced of her looking a little too fresh off the surgeon’s table. Lil Kim tweeted, “@WendyWilliams Bitch Y didn’t U Show the side by side pic. This pic is photoshopped and U know it. U hating Bitch.” Kim then continued on a tweeting tangent about the talk show host’s comment. To read more about the Lil’ Kim/Wendy Williams Twitter war, check out the Web Spectator.
Greeks to ‘stomp the yard’ in Student Union Anthony Pope S TA F F W R i T E R agpope@valdosta.edu
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, inc. will host their second annual Greekdom step show tonight at 7:11 p.m. in the Union Ballroom. Tickets for the event are $10 at the door, which will open at 6:30 p.m. A percentage of proceeds will be donated to the organization’s national foundation Guide Right. The Guide Right Program encourages and supports gentlemen in low income and high crime areas and leads them on the path to success. Performances for Greekdom will feature Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity inc., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity inc. and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority inc.
logical father, but after recently “She is not afraid to work reconnecting with him, she hard,” Bento said. learned that he also had a career “She finds ways to make all in radio. her work fun and successful.” Coincidentally, her family in the future, Contevita consists of a long list of various dreams of being a female Ryan relatives that are involved in the Seacrest. world of music. “He began in radio,” Contevi“We’re all connected through ta said. “Now he does it all, he’s music making,” Contevita said. so successful.” Contevita is certainly diving Currently Contevita has taken right into her radio dreams. on the task of being responsible Over the past for the return of year and a half, BLAZEFEST-- a she has been music festival that working at will showcase loWVVS Blaze cal bands on the Dowling Payne FM 90.9 as the front lawn. promotions diit will feature rector. seven different bands, mostly She first began as a format indie, that will each play for a DJ, but got a promotion within a half hour. year. Her hopes are to one day The bands performing will inbecome the station manager as clude Sin, Paper Hawks and she loves to direct, produce and most notably Music World Orhave her hands in all the daily der. workings of the station. The event will take place on Courtney Bento, a Blaze FM March 30 and can be thought of coworker, has been working as a dialed down local version with Contevita over the past of Warped Tour. year.
Members of these organizathe crowd making any member tions will battle in rounds of of the audience feel as if they are stepping and strolling to win a a part of the show.” grand prize of $1000 to their reKappa Alpha Phi originally spective organization. brought Greekdom to students in President of Kappa Alpha Psi efforts to introduce new events Fraternity, inc., and trends to Jeremiah Wigthe Universigins, hopes ty. Wiggins Anyone who that this year’s stated that this event will top step show will attends Greekdom the previous be different year as well as from any othcan expect fastshow that VSU er step show. paced, thrilling Greek life is “There are still a promithree themed competition. nent force on rounds where -Jeremiah Wiggins campus. the partici“Anyone pants step and who attends Greekdom can exstroll within a certain time brackpect fast paced, thrilling competi- et, back to back,” Wiggins said. tion,” Wiggins said. For more information on “At a step show, the performGreekdom, students can email ers are on a stage; however at fierynupes@yahoo.com. Greekdom the performers are much closer and connected with
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Photo Contributed By Claire Contevita San Francisco native Claire Contevita considers herself a true California girl.
Outside of the studio, Contevita loves fashion and writing. She spends her free time with her supportive boyfriend, ian Kerstanski. “She is a go getter,” Kerstanski said. “She never gives up on anything.” Contevita is a hard working and loyal worker with a drive to accomplish any task she is given. She is certainly not going to stop until she reaches her dream.
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vsuspeCtAtoR.CoM | pAge 5
Meet Juliana Boehm Ritsuki Miyazaki S TA f f W R I T e R rmiyazaki@valdosta.edu
Melissa Powell/THE SPECTATOR Lefty pitcher Josh Mann pitched two innings of relief in the Blazers 6-3 win over Flager College Wednesday night. Mann recorded two strikeouts and gave up two earned runs.
Blazer baseball torches Saints Alex Tostado S p o RT S W R I T e R ajtostado@valdosta.edu
The Valdosta State baseball team (10-10) avenges an early season loss to flagler College (9-14) after beating the Saints 6-3 Wednesday night at Billy Grant field The Saints beat VSU back on feb. 6. in St. Augustine but in the second meeting this season, the Blazers got the bats going early scoring four runs in the bottom of the fourth inning and the pitching took them to the finish line.
“We just saw some good pitches in the fourth inning and we were fortunate enough to string some hits together,” third baseman Michael Gouge said. “We scored enough early to throw them off.” Starting pitcher Jarrod Carlton went 4.1 innings and struck out two while walking three and did not allow any runs. Relief pitcher Benjamin Weil came into the game in the fifth inning and struck out four of the six batters he faced. “I actually was just trying to get ahead of the batters,” Weil said. “I was trying to not give up
Carlton’s runs (runners on base when Weil entered the game).” VSU total batted in four of the six runs while one came from a flagler wild pitch and another from a stolen base. The Blazers finished with nine hits and only struck out five times. flagler has had problems of its own, especially on the road now dropping to 1-8 on the road. The Blazers have struggled this season but have an impressive 9-3 record at home this season. “Getting back on the winning track again, hopefully, before we
start with conference play this weekend is important,” head coach Greg Guilliams said. The Blazers will continue their home stand as they welcome Gulf South Conference foe West Alabama on Saturday for a double header at 3:30 and 6:30 and again on Sunday at 1 p.m. “I hope it builds some guys confidence and hopefully they look at these wins and it builds their confidence,” Guilliams said. follow Alex on Twitter:@Alex_Tostado12
VSU softball team to host rivals UWG and Shorter this weekend D.J. Davis S p o RT S W R I T e R ddavis@valdosta.edu
While students hit the road toward their spring break destinations, the Blazers will be tending to some business against Gulf South Conference foe West Georgia and conference newcomer Shorter this weekend. No.1 VSU goes into the weekend with a 7-3 conference record; with a pair of double headers with against rivals, the Blazers are looking to make a statement. “It’s not just making a statement, we just got to win some games,” head softball coach Thomas Macera said. “We split last weekend twice. We can’t keep splitting with everybody, we got to start sweeping people or else we’re going be in trouble
when we get to the end.” UWG and VSU renew the rivalry on Saturday after the Blazers swept them in a season series last season including a 14-3 victory in the GSC Tournament. on Sunday, VSU could get a preview of a serious threat for years to come in the GSC. The Shorter Hawks are in their inaugural season so they are still ineligible for post-season play yet have already played like championship contenders. The Hawks are 20-2 heading into the weekend, including a 71 record in conference. SU are potential obstacles for the Blazers team, whom will try to avoid looking too far toward spring break. “We’re pretty focused,” shortstop Courtney Albritton said. “We’ve got games all during spring break so we don’t really have much of a spring break. We
have other stuff distracting us this week too with a lot of injuries and stuff. We just have to work around it.” VSU needs to gain some momentum heading into the bulk of its GSC schedule after dropping conference games against West Alabama and AlabamaHuntsville last weekend. The Blazers have already matched the five losses from last season in 38 less games, but Coach Macera isn’t concerned. “It’s a different team,” Macera said. “It’s a new team, it’s a young team. To only lose five games in a season isn’t done very often by anybody. We just had a magical season last year. This season we’ve dropped a few more games, but we’re still being competitive and we’re still in the hunt.” According to Macera, the Blazers only need to clean up
also competed against four top 10 schools in their last four matches, so the same goes for them. In a season where a maximum of eight Gulf South Conference games are played, three of them fall on this weekend, which is crucial. “We got all of the big guns out of the way, so we are pretty confident,” Hansen said. “We lost to West florida, so the highest seed we could be (in the GSC tournament) is second. our goal is to be number two now, so that would put us on the other side from West florida in the draw.” In little GSC action this season, the Lady Blazers are 3-1 and the Blazers are 2-1 as both lost to UWf as mentioned above. Both the men and women have a shot to finish the rest of the season strong and set themselves up to play their best at the end of the season. VSU will begin the trip friday
at Shorter and then head west for matches at Alabama-Huntsville and North Alabama. That means three matches in three days and in three different towns. There is a lot of pressure to win this weekend, but the traveling shouldn’t add to any of that. “We are always preparing to go to national, and national’s format is four matches in four days,” Hansen said. “The only way we can do that is by playing hard this weekend.” The Blazers have played hardfought matches against elite teams, but now they need to take care of business in the conference and win. “We could always get our brains beat out, but we know we’ve got to win because they are conference schools,” Hansen said. “If they get down against someone, I feel that they can win the match, and that’s what we have to do.”
championship teams (softball, tennis) simply because they’re more people involved with the football team resulting in more ordered rings. Despite championship team rings not being so publicized before; the athletic department will probably look to do the same for future champions. “I understand what some of our student-athletes are saying, I hear what they’re saying,” Reinhard said. “At the same time, they don’t have any reason to understand the realities around having to generate revenue to buy the things we have to buy.” Head Coach David Dean grasps the financial aspect of the
situation nonetheless agrees with his irritated players that the team ring is a “priceless” item. “I like the fact that we’re trying to sell a lot memorabilia but the actual ring I can understand why they’re upset about that,” Dean said. “If they sold another ring that was different that said national champions, I think it would be a little different, they would understand that. The accomplishments and all the weight room work, the practices in the heat-in a hundred degree weather in the summer, they look back on that and say this is something we deserve nobody else should have the same thing we have.”
one aspect of their game to be contenders once again. “We just got to get better on defense,” Macera said. “If we get better on defense we’ll be fine.” Valdosta State will be looking to do just that against the Wolves and Hawks at Steel’s Diamond field at Blazers park this weekend. follow D.J. on Twitter: @dmac21 bucs
Juliana Boehm does it all. The VSU tennis player and cross country runner was born in Sochi, Russia, and grew up in Mannheim, Germany. Her accomplishments include being named one of the Gulf South Conference Runners of the Week in 2012. even in the middle of the season, Boehm continues to bring a positive attitude to the Blazers tennis team. “If you are on the team, how can you not hustle as much as she (does)?” coach John Hansen said. Hansen also admired Boehm’s win in the doubles match against Columbus State on March 5. Columbus is currently ranked number six in the country. “It was a good win for them,” Hansen said. “finally breaking through all (of our struggles) was a positive sign for everybody.”
A S S T. S p o RT S e D I T o R acespenshied@valdosta.edu
The VSU men’s tennis team hit the road for one of the most important weekends of the regular reason. In the last four matches, the Blazers have squared off against four of the country’s top 10 teams. That includes top-ranked Armstrong Atlantic State University and rival Barry University. The Blazers lost all four of those matches, but that is not the only thing John Hansen, head coach, was focused on. “I’ve been very proud of this team because what happened is exactly what I hoped would happen, which is that we would get better with each match,” Hansen said. “A lot of teams just quit playing (when they lose a game), but we aren’t in that mode.” Meanwhile, the Lady Blazers Ring: continued from page 1 “There is a misunderstanding that when the university whens a national championship that there are dollars that come with that national championship in order to purchase national championship rings, that is not the case,” Reinhard said. “Those monies have to be generated and we’re very pleased to be able to provide national championship rings for the football players, trainers, equipment managers, the coaches and everybody on the list but it’s an extremely expensive undertaking.” This substantial needed revenue is tops of the three recent
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Boehm’s doubles partner, Laura Ubeda, explained that her aggressive style of play makes the match easier for her. Boehm started to play tennis when she was seven years old. She was influenced by her father, a tennis coach, and her older sister started to play a year before her. The junior recalls the time she was in Germany playing tennis. “I didn’t play for school when I was in Germany; I just played in club tennis,” she said. Although she is a full-time student and plays two sports, Boehm still enjoys spending her free time with friends and fellow teammates.
Sudoku
Men’s tennis looks ahead to away matches Ace Espenshied
Courtesy of VSU Athletics
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Spring practice is over;Blazers look toward fall Practice: continued from page 1 VSU will rejoin together during the summer for workouts and conditioning before official practice begins in august. the 2013 schedule, which is not finalized, has already received plenty of glances from the Blazers. VSU will head to in-region fort Valley to face the Wildcats for the season opener (9/7). following the season’s only bye-week, the Blazers kick-off the next three games at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium. Shorter University will be the visitors for week three (9/21), in its first time at VSU, then nonconference angelo State (9/28), who the Blazers defeated last
season in Cowboys Stadium, and VSU concludes the home-stand with Gulf South Conference newcomer florida tech (10/5). the next four games are crucial for the Blazers competing against the conferences’ other top-tier teams. the first two of those four are on the road against defending GSC champs West alabama (10/12) and the next in Carrolton for annual ‘Peach Basket’ versus West Georgia (10/19). the Blazers settle in back home the following week against North alabama (10/26) before hitting the road again to Cleveland, Miss. to face Delta State (11/2). Cochran, who is preparing for his final season, understands the importance of doing well during
the peak of the schedule. “i never played at West alabama before so that’s going to be a big one and Delta (State) again,” he said. “that West alabama trip, that West Georgia trip, and that Delta (State) trip are huge and that’s going to make or break our season.” a pair of non-conference games concludes the regular season. after the away game against DSU, the Blazers come back home against UNC-Pembroke (11/9), this will be the first ever meeting between the two schools. the finale will take place over a thousand miles away from Valdosta at texas a&M Kingsville (11/16). again, dates and times for
Dowling Payne/THE SPECTATOR Head football coach David Dean speaks to his player at the end of a spring practice.
these games are still subject to change. the Blazers look to become the first team in school history to win back-to-back national championships. “We’re coming out with the
bull’s eye on our back, bigger than always,” Safety Chris Caspari said. “We’re just ready to prove ourselves again that we’re number one for a reason. it will be difficult if we come out with our heads too big coming think-
Back in red and black
Last season’s injured football players return to the field in 2013 Dowling Payne S ta f f W r i t e r dfpayne@valdosta.edu
Valdosta State this past season was an especially exceptional one as they brought the National Championship title back home to titletown. Not only will the team be coming back strong to keep the title, but also will have the addition of two previous players who were out last season. Both stand out players, Griffin roelle and Will Johnson, will be making their appearance back on the field. Will Johnson, a tight end, will be coming back after a fractured tibia from the Dallas game last season. He was instructed to stay off it for ten weeks, counting him out for the rest of the season. Johnson attended as many games as possible but found it hard to be on the sidelines. “it was hard to be away from the
team,” Johnson said. “it’s like you’re a part of the team, but also apart from the team.” Johnson has come back strong is spring practice and is most looking forward to playing in a home game seeing as he has never had the chance to do so. “i can’t wait to get back to the feel of Saturdays,”Johnson said. “i’ve been coming back to practice and working hard.” Junior wide receiver Griffin roelle is sure to make a notable comeback after being a starter both his freshman and sophomore years. He was named 1st team all region, academic all-GSC Dowling Payne/THE SPECTATOR honors, and in 2011 he started Wide receiver Griffin Roelle makes a move in spring practice drills. nine out of ten games. sidelines,” roelle said. “But i cided to watch from his couch. During the summer of 2012, had to support as best as i could. Knowing he couldn’t be on the roelle severely pulled his hamWhen your best friends are out field playing or make a differ string and was out for the season. there, it feels like you are out ence in the outcome, he decided Last season, roelle still came there also.” to stay home and spent the day out to every practice and made it When it came to the national pacing his living room full of to as many games as possible. championship game, roelle de nerves for his friends and fre“it was hard to watch from the quently yelling at the tV screen.
When asked about spring practice and being back in the game, roelle’s face lit up. “i love football more than anything, it’s amazing to be back” roelle said. He speaks of many improvements to be made but that the team is on the right track toward defending the title. roelle is always one to encourage other team mates and work hard to accomplish every team and personal goal. “it’s a whole new season, i would love for us to go undefeated,”roelle said. “it would be great to win the conference title and the national championship.” this next season is sure to be one worth watching with all of the returning champions and also players such as Johnson and roelle who are itching to put on the jersey and get back on the field. follow Dowling on twitter: @deepayne7
Are you interested in being a sports writer for The Spectator? Email epjackson@valdosta.edu
ing we’re national champs. We still got to work harder like we’re the worst team in the country trying to get back to the top so we still got to have that drive.” follow eric on twitter: @epjackson
upcoming Blazer softball team schedule (3/16) UWG - 1 p.m. (DH) * (3/17) SU - 1 p.m. (DH) * (3/21) Miles - 4 p.m. (DH) * (3/23) @ DSU - 2 p.m. (DH)* (3/24) @CBU - 2 p.m. (DH) * (3/26) ASU - 4 p.m. (DH) (3/29) UNA - 3 p.m. (DH) * (3/30) UU - 2 p.m. (DH) * DH- double-header *-GSC game
Follow @BlazerSports on Twitter upcoming Blazer baseball team schedule (3/16) UWA- 3:30 p.m. (DH) * (3/17) UWA- 1 p.m. (DH) * (3/23) SU- 3 p.m. (DH) * (3/24) SU- 1 p.m.(DH) * (3/27) ASU- 5 p.m. (3/29) UWG- 3 p.m. (DH) * (3/30) UWG- 1 p.m. * DH- double-header *- GSC game