The Murray State News

ONLINE: Newspaper reflects one year after vessel collides with bridge, impacts community

The Murray State News TheNews.org

February 1, 2012

Vol. 88, No. 19

University search for provost on schedule Chris Wilcox || Chief Copy Editor cwilcox2@murraystate.edu

The 17-member provost search committee, established by President Randy Dunn during November, has met several times since its creation and has begun establishing the criteria necessary to evaluate the applications the University will receive for the position.

The committee was charged with finding a new provost and vice president of AcaRose demic Affairs after Bonnie Higginson announced her resignation last semester. Higginson’s resignation will take effect June 30, and following it she plans on returning as a professor to the College of Education.

The provost search committee in-

Whistleblower: one who reveals something covert or who informs against another

cludes a representative from each academic college and school, and includes members of other various constituencies on campus.

Faculty Regent Jack Rose, chair of the committee, said it was an honor to lead the committee as he and Higginson had worked together for many years. He said the person who would take her place would need the same disposition and desire to make academia succeed and to make sure the faculty are appropriately represented.

Jeremiah Johnson, Student Government Association president from Hopkinsville, Ky., said a new provost would have their hands full with the upcoming reaccreditation process and the finalization of other programs.

“This individual will have some pretty big shoes to fill with Higginson leaving,” he said. “She has been amazing to work with. She has always put the students needs first when making decisions.

see SEARCH, 3A

Revamped policy on anonymous reporting takes effect on campus Lexy Gross || Assistant News Editor cgross2@murraystate.edu

Faculty and staff can now anonymously report significant violations of Murray State policy, without fear of retribution.

By state law, employees have always enjoyed that right, but a national trend in higher education led the University Board of Regents to institute a new policy that is taking effect this week.

Employees can report suspicious behaviors on the part of their fellow employees.

Those include any violations of federal, state or local law; mismanagement; waste, fraud and the abuse of authority; or danger to the public health and safety.

Kentucky already has a whistleblower policy for public post-sec-

ondary education, but the new program has been tailored to fit Murray State.

President Randy Dunn said the new policy was created by the Board of Regents to provide a local way for faculty and staff to report procedure violations.

“I think for faculty and staff it provides an additional avenue to ensure that we’re doing business of the Dunn University in the way our students who pay tuition dollars and the tax payers expect it to take place,” Dunn said.

There are already several offices where students and staff can report

complaints, such as Human Resources, Public Safety and the Internal Auditor’s Office. The new whistleblower policy, however, will address more complex disregard of University policy.

Michelle Saxon, internal auditor, said this program will allow faculty and staff to voice serious problems directly to Murray State.

“There are mechanisms in place to deal with other complaints such as discrimination, sexual harassment or performance evaluations,” Saxon said. “The whistleblower program should not be used for these types of complaints.”

Another component of the whistleblower program is the guaranteed anonymity when filing a report.

Saxon said this quality should

Kylie Townsend/The News

BIG CONCERT, LITTLE TOWN: Country group Little Big Town launched its nationwide tour in Murray Thursday night, debuting its newest and No. 1 album ‘Tornado.’ Band members Karen Fairchild, Jimi Westbrook, Phillip Sweet and Kimberly Schlapman started off ‘The Tornado Tour’ with a familiar set of songs to a large crowd in Lovett Auditorium. A light dusting of snow did little to keep some fans from braving the cold to see one of Nashville’s hottest country acts. For more on Little Big Town’s opening performance, check out thenews.org.

see POLICY, 3A

Board forms committee to review contract

It’s kind of a domino effect to get everyone moved out and into the right place.”

–Don Robertson Vice President of Student Affairs

Meghann Anderson || News Editor madnerson22@murraystate.edu

The University Board of Regents unanimously voted at their last quarterly meeting to set a schedule for evaluating President Randy Dunn’s contract.

Board Chairman Constantine Curris reported on the concerns of Dunn’s contract at the Dec. 14 Board of Regents meeting. He told the board he was aware of the speculation about the renewal of Dunn’s contract, which is set to expire on June 30, 2014.

He noted that the board unanimously voted on a new contract for Dunn in September 2010.

The terms of the contract stated that the board would take action on the contract no later than a year prior to its maturation, which would be at the end of the 2012-13 fiscal year on June 30, 2013.

see CONTRACT, 3A

Taylor McStoots/The News

Ordway Hall, a historic University building is scheduled to be razed this summer.

Offices leaving fated Ordway Ben Manhanke || Staff writer bmanhanke@murraystate.edu

Ater the Board of Regents approved the demolition of Ordway Hall in early December, money still has not been found to finance the costly renovations that would preserve the historic building.

The motion to demolish the 81year-old building, home to the Stu-

dent Affairs offices passed with a vote of 8-1 under the condition that the building would not be destroyed if money for the necessary upgrades should arrive.

Kim Oatman, chief facilities officer for Facilities Management, estimated in December the cost of the renovations to be approximately $9 million.

Murray State and those wishing to preserve Ordway have only until

June to gather these funds as per the stipulation.

Oatman said the demolition design plans are currently being developed and the demolition is not actually scheduled for June although it could occur in that time frame.

“We will not have an actual schedule until we finalize the design and bid documents in the spring,” he said.

He said the current budget for the demolition of the hall is $600,000 although that budget has also not been finalized.

Oatman The decision of either renovating or destroying Ordway Hall became more pressing after a study by the Kentucky Council on

see ORDWAY, 3A

Track team bus rolls off freeway Staff Report A bus carrying the Murray State track team veered off the road and flipped over en route to Indiana University for an indoor track meet last Friday.

The accident happened in Pike County near Evansville, Ind., at approximately 11:38 a.m. according to Sergeant Todd Ringle, Public Information Officer.

The bus was traveling northbound on I-69 at the 42 mile marker. It hit a slick spot on the road; the bus driver then lost control of the vehicle. The bus veered off the road and flipped over onto the driver’s side.

According to Ringle, Jennifer Severns, Murray State Track and Field Head Coach, was driving during the accident. She was not injured during the impact.

see BUS, 3A

WHAT’S

NEW SORORITY

STAFF OPINION

HIGH RANKS

INSIDE

Four Greek organizations chosen as finalists, 6A

Editorial Board finds too much apathy on campus, 4A

Softball earns third-place finish Spike Lee to take Lovett stage Monday evening, 5B in preseason poll, 2B

DIRECTOR PREVIEW

The News

2A

February 1, 2013

News Editor: Meghann Anderson Assistant Editor: Lexy Gross Phone: 809-4468 Twitter: MurrayStateNews

University welcomes Qingdao staff

Police Beat Jan. 24 10:24 p.m. A caller reported smelling marijuana in Regents Residential College.

Officers were notified, but could not locate the scent.

11:14 p.m. Officers issued a verbal warning for failure to yield in the Hart Residential College parking lot.

Jan. 25 10:27 a.m. A caller reported a medical emergency at the Oakley Applied Science Building. Officers and Murray Ambulance Services were notified.

11:52 a.m. A caller reported an accident involving a University vehicle at the Public Safety Building.

Jan. 26 11:50 p.m. A caller reported being harassed at Hart Residential College. Officers took a report for fourth-degree assault.

7:51 p.m. A caller reported theft of items from their vehicle. Officers took a report for theft by unlawful taking of more than $500.

1:09 p.m. A caller reported receiving threats at the General Services Building.

Officers were notified and took a report.

Jan. 29 12:09 a.m. A caller reported smelling marijuana in Clark Residential College. Officers were notified, but the marijuana was not found.

4:23 p.m. A caller reported water coming out of the ground between Winslow Dining Hall and Hart Residential College. Officers and the Central Plant were notified.

Jan. 30 1:38 a.m. A caller reported smoke in the West Farm Equine Barn. Officers, the Murray Fire Department and the state fire marshal were notified.

9:47 a.m. A caller reported a tractor trailer hit a pole at Howton Agriculture Building. Officers, Murray Police Department and Facilities Management were notified.

Jan. 27

Call of Fame

10:12 a.m. Officers assisted the Murray Police Department in a motor vehicle accident at Waldrop Drive.

5:24 p.m. A burglar alarm was activated at the General Services Building. Officers were notified and the building appeared normal.

Jan. 26 – 11:42 p.m. A caller reported a fight in progress at Fast Track. Officers were notified and the suspicious persons were gone on arrival.

Jan. 28 11:30 a.m. A caller reported a vehicle collision with injury on Chestnut Street. Officers notified Murray Ambulance Services and the Murray Police Department.

Motorists assists – 0 Racer escorts – 2 Arrests – 0

Lexy Gross, Assistant News Editor, compiles Police Beat with materials provided by Public Safety. Not all dispatched calls are listed.

Meghann Anderson || News Editor manderson22@murraystate.edu

Twelve representatives from Qingdao Agriculture University visited campus last fall in hopes of continuing their partnership with Murray State.

Corona Jiang, director of International Programs for QAU, said she is visiting as part of a hybrid program between the two universities.

“We come here to do the shadowing program, and Murray State will have a delegation come to my university in May to do the discovery program,” Jiang said.

The group also met with administrators from Dining Services, Student Affairs, International Organizations, Enrollment Management, and housing, health and career services.

The group met with President Randy Dunn, Vice President of Student Affairs Don Robertson and Vice President of Academic Affairs Bonnie Higginson while at Murray State.

Some of the representatives visiting campus were Pengmin Xu, director of the Net-

work Management Center, Qian Wang, associate dean of the School of Food Science and Engineering and Binggao Sun, associate director of Student Affairs.

Higginson said Murray State has worked with Qingdao to build a relationship with its agriculHigginson ture program over the last several years.

QAU has recently decided to adopt several agriculture methods from Murray State.

“The representatives decided it would be a good idea to bring a delegation here to shadow our programs,” Higginson said.

In May, a group of administrators from Murray State will fly to China to visit QAU as part of a discovery program which will help them receive insight into how Qingdao operates their university.

“The purpose is to help us understand education on a global level,” Higginson said.

“This is especially important in regards to higher education.”

Jay Morgan, associate provost, said Murray State has had a good relationship with Qingdao in the last few years.

“These relationships grow and foster over time and that’s what makes this particular visit important because it paves the way for us to go there again,” Morgan said.

Qingdao officials asked to model their own programs after several at Murray State last year.

The group of faculty members spoke to QAU about using the University as a site for some of Murray State’s discovery programs for study abroad purposes, he said.

Murray State is currently working with QAU to offer an MBA program. Currently, there are only six MBA programs in China, and four of them are in Hong Kong.

QAU enrolls approximately 26,000 students and is located on the eastern coast of China by the Yellow Sea. It is the largest agricultural university in the Shandong province.

Said Higginson: “Relationships like these may be what leads us to opening up programs, research and other opportunities we might not have known existed.”

Organization offers culture insight, experiences Samantha Villanueva || Staff Writer svillanueva@murraystate.edu

The International Student Organization has helped Murray State introduce different cultures and traditions to the city for more than 15 years and has built relationships with numerous countries.

Originally created to help international students transition easier to the University, the organization also promotes cultural diversity to the University and community.

The organization also provides a space where international students have the chance to teach American classmates about their culture.

Don Robertson, vice president of Student Affairs, said the ISO is the University’s direct link to connecting with its international students.

“It’s an important piece of the governing structure of students,” Robertson said.

He said ISO’s strong presence on campus is a result of helping

Photo courtesy of the International Student Organization

Members of ISO gather at one of their many events last semester. the international communities acclimate to Murray State.

“They are one of the big four groups that we look to,” Robertson said. “It’s important that we look to ISO as one of the main ways to get a sense of the needs for our international students.

What are issues and concerns that we need to address? How do we help the international students transition to the University?”

Currently, ISO serves 800 international students, including

more than 20 student representatives from different countries.

ISO has been in charge of numerous traditions such as the International Bazaar, International Night at Winslow Dining Hall and various crafts and dance nights.

Ewa Wantulok, president of ISO, said the organization was created with two distinct goals.

“ISO gives students opportunities to stay involved in campus life and to share their cultural background,” Wantulok said.

She said the relationship between ISO and the University goes beyond just a teaching experience. She said ISO teaches the University and students about diversity. ISO helps students explore the world in one place.

Wantulok said ISO helps students be open-minded and ready to discover other cultures.

ISO aims for students to understand diversity, rather than judge different cultures.

ISO also wishes to encourage study abroad options by giving students first-hand experiences with students from possible locations.

Wantulok said another reason ISO holds its relationship with the University so closely is to broaden the world to local students.

Said Wantulok: “I believe international students encourage American students to explore and experience the world by leaving comfort zones and being open for new adventures and ready to accept what the world has to offer.”

*22' 1(:6 WE’RE HIRING! News, Sports & Features Writers, Photographers, Copy Editors, Ad Sales Representitives

Apply at Wilson Hall or online at TheNews.org

The News

News

February 1, 2013

SEARCH From Page 1

Photo courtesy of WFIE-14

Emergency management officials work to clear the scene of a morning interstate accident where a bus carrying members of the Murray State track team flipped on its side after hitting a patch of ice. Four individuals were sent to the hospital with minor injuries.

BUS

I-69 Accident A bus carrying several Murray State track athletes flipped on its side in icy conditions on I-69 last Friday. Four individuals were sent to the hospital with minor injuries.

From Page 1 Four Murray State students were injured. They were Katie Forsehy, junior jumps, hurdles and sprints athlete from Mahomet, Ill., Tonia Pratt, sophomore throws competitor from Michigan Center, Mich., Abbie Oliver, sophomore distance runner from Wales, United Kingdom and T.J. Wirth throws coach from Mahomet, Ill. All four were taken to Jasper Memorial Hospital in Jasper, Ind., for minor injuries, Ringle said.

They have all been released and are back at school.

I-64

Evansville

Shawnee Nat’l Forest

Madisonville I-69

Paducah

I-24

Evan Watson/The News

ORDWAY From Page 1 Postsecondary Education which was hired to survey 56 percent of the buildings at Murray State was released and found the hall to violate current safety standards.

Large amounts of asbestos, collected water leak damage and an overall weak structure all are all problems facing the hall.

It was the CPE’s recommendation that building be torn down, otherwise, its study estimated in five to 10 years the building may collapse on its own.

Don Robertson, vice president of Student Affairs, said they are in the process of relocating the offices in Ordway to new locations around cam-

He said the University was losing one of its best administrators, however he said the College of Education would be gaining a fantastic professor.

Chair Rose said as the position has a greater magnitude the selection process is expected to take several months. He said the committee’s end goal is to recommend two to four finalist candidates to the president no later than mid-April.

A preliminary search calendar indicates the president will offer the top candidate from the search the position to be approved by the Board of Regents at its May 10 meeting. The new provost may start as early as July 1.

Rose said the committee met on Jan. 25 to put the final touches on a rubric that would guide the committee in selecting and sorting candidates. He said the committee would be searching for candidates who will be effective in maintaining high quality and who will move the University to even greater heights.

Sidney Anderson, junior from Carrollton, Ky., is a member of the provost search committee and said she hopes the committee is able to find someone to fill the role of provost as successfully as Higginson.

“As a student member I am able to put a students perspective in with the views and opinions of academic professionals here on campus,” she said.

“Dunn saw the importance of placing a student on the committee search for just that reason – so that the students did in fact have a voice in the search.”

pus. He said the Student Affairs office will be moving to the fourth floor of Wells Hall hopefully by summer, that floor is currently occupied by the West Kentucky Educational Cooperative.

“I think the goal is to have West Kentucky coop out and into the old Developmental Outreach office by the end of the semester,” Robertson said. “It’s kind of a domino effect to get everyone moved out and in the right place.”

As of yet, no plans have been officially formalized for the space after Ordway’s demolition.

Oatman said there are a couple of options on the table for the use of the area, but nothing is certain.

“We anticipate some sort of building memorial close to that area that will incorporate some of the architectural elements we plan to save from the original structure,” he said. “It is possible that this could become a part of a public green space, but no final plans have been determined.”

3A Anderson said the applications were due by March 1 and the committee would then be evaluating candidates as expediently as possible.

President Randy Dunn said the committee has kept on track with their schedule and he said he believes there will be a permanent replacement when the time comes.

In the event the search does take longer, he said an interim might be appointed. An alternative option, he said, might be an interim if the candidate needs more time than feasible. He said even if the delay was two to three months he would not be worried about it.

Higginson, current provost, said the caliber of this search required complete confidentiality and that the committee would likely conduct preliminary interviews off campus, much like the previous provost search committee had organized in 2010.

“The only involvement I’m likely to have is to possibly meet the candidates invited to campus,” she said.

President Dunn said that during the last search interviews were conducted in Nashville, but at this time the committee was looking at doing the first initial round of interviews using Skype. He said this will hopefully shorten the amount of time required and will also save the University money.

According to the position advertisement in The Chronicle of Higher Education, among the many requirements of applicants is a doctorate degree or other appropriate terminal degree from an accredited institution, appointment at the rank of professor with tenure, senior-level administrative experience and demonstrated experience in development and implementation of new academic programs.

CONTRACT From Page 1 Curris appointed a small ad hoc contract review committee, consisting of himself and regents Marilyn Buchanan and Steve Williams.

The ad hoc committee will review relevant information and materials, including resolutions forwarded to the board, data responding to the university’s progress, information and comments that Dunn might wish to forward to the committee, as well as any information or comments individual regents want to convey.

At the scheduled March 15 board meeting, the committee will meet with the full board in executive session to discuss the contract and receive further instructions

POLICY From Page 1 make faculty and staff more comfortable reporting a problem.

Faculty and staff can file a complaint online by simply clicking their employee tab in myGate, going to the bookmarks plus tab and clicking report concerns/whistleblower program. University employees can also print the form and mail it to Saxon.

If an employee wishes to leave a message on the complaint “hot-line” at 809-5599, the number of the caller will not be shown.

The full whistleblower program details can be found in the Statement of Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct. Saxon said employees are still encouraged to report their complaints to the state level if they wish.

“Although employees have always had the ability to report wrongdoing using the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s whistleblower reporting process, we were asked by the Board of Regents to create our own whistleblower program based upon a recommendation by our external auditors,” Saxon said.

The board first was presented with the idea of amending the Internal Audit Charter with a new whistleblower policy in September. The last two audits conducted by RubinBrown, an accounting and consulting firm, suggested Murray State should develop their own policy.

Dunn said there has been a national focus on university boards to implement systems such as the new whistleblower program.

At the May 10 board meeting, the committee will conclude its work and make recommendations to the board. The board will take final action on the contract.

The issue of the contract had come to the forefront in recent months in part because of two jobs for which Dunn had applied.

Dunn interviewed for the presidency of Missouri State University in October and for the job of the Florida Commissioner of Education in December.

Dunn said he is not certain how the committee plans to organize its work, but he hopes they will fulfill what they indicated in their resolution last December and they would do so in a public fashion.

Kentucky state law requires meetings for consideration of contract extensions be open to the public. pursuant to opinions by Kentucky Attorney General Jack Conway, however, the team must conduct in-person open-session meetings in order to come to any presentable conclusions.

Best of Murray The Murray State News Presents

the ONLY publication celebrating the best of the best in Racer college life The Murray State News is compiling its annual best-of Murray State special section, ‘Best of Murray.’

Cast your votes here and return the completed ballot to 111 Wilson Hall by noon April 5.

Best place to nap on campus Best faculty member Best staff member

Best Greek organization

Best place to work on campus Best campus tradition Best place to study

Best place to live on campus Best public restroom Best bookstore

Best student athlete

Best bar

Best Mexican food

Best place to take a date

Best pizza

Best sandwich shop Best coffee shop Best Asian food

Best place for breakfast

Best place to get ice cream/ frozen yogurt

Best place to cure a hangover

Best live music/ local band

Best place to get your hair cut Best place to live off campus Best place to worship

Best packaged alcohol store Best healthcare provider Best clothing store

N A M E : ___________________________________________________ C L A S S I F I C AT I O N : _______________________ E - M A I L : ___________________________________ R e s i d e n t i a l C o l l e g e : ___________________________

All votes are write-in. One ballot per student. At least 50 categories have to be filled out for the ballot to be counted. Duplications (including photocopies) will be disqualified.

Please write clearly and legibly. Return to The News office, 111 Wilson Hall, by noon April 5.

4A

February 1, 2013

The News

Opinion

Opinion Editor: Devin Griggs Phone: 809-5873 Twitter: MSUNewsOpinion

A Professor’s Journal

Our View

Don’t dismiss depression

@#$%^&* Apathy!

I have before me the image of Albrecht Durer’s “Melencolia I,” completed in 1514 as perhaps the finest of his copperplate engravings.

According to the Britannica, Durer Duane Bolin (1471-1528), born Professor of and died in Nurnberg, Germany.

History Painter and printmaker, he is generally regarded as the greatest German Renaissance artist.

Durer has interested me for some time, ever since I saw his Christ-like self-portrait, an oil on wood that he painted in 1500.

It is the subject of his 1514 copper engraving that is of interest to me, however, largely because I sometimes suffer from melancholia, a state of depression that can leave one helpless in its grip. I wonder if Durer suffered from melancholia. After all, he chose it as the subject for his engraving, and a glance at his somber self-portrait perhaps gives a further clue. Melancholia. Winston Churchill called it “the black dog.” In Durer’s engraving, a robed scholar, surrounded by symbols of alchemy, holding a pen in one hand and leaning on the other, looks off into the distance contemplating the depths of his despair.

The writer Paul Lawrence Dunbar wrote knowingly about the condition in his poem, “Melancholia:”

The staff editorial is the majority opinion of The Murray State News Editorial Board.

Opinionated Tweets We sift through the muck so you don’t have to.

This week: #ObamaWarFilms and #GOPDragNames

John Difool @MCHblazer You Didn't Build That Bridge Over The River Kwai #ObamaWarFilms 5:55 p.m. Jan. 28

Nomad @NuTexasRepublic #ObamaWarFilms Band of gender neutral ethically diverse resilient related conscientious objecting religious tolerating global citizens#tcot 10:40 p.m. Jan. 28

Want to see your tweet in this section?

Hit up @MSUNewsOpinion with your thoughts on anything from construction on campus to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict with the hashtag #RacerThoughts and you might see it here!

Leslie Dowd @LADowd #ObamaWarFilms A Farewell to Arms (no title change needed) 10:53 p.m. Jan. 28

Austin Ramsey

2609 University Station Murray State University Murray, Kentucky 42071-3301 email: msu.thenews@murraystate.edu Fax: 809-3175

TheNews.org

Jeers to ...

Spike Lee. How much money did the University spend on this one? Whatever happened to us getting real world leaders for the “Presidential” lectures?

Republican Swine @RepublicanSwine #GOPDragNames Ru Paul Ryan 9:33 p.m. Jan. 28

Kathryn Brusco @KathrynBruscoBk #GOPDragNames Bobby Jingle 8:58 p.m. Jan. 28

Patrick @QuadCityPat Marcus Bachmann #GOPDragNames 8:48 p.m. Jan. 28

Write to us!

Editor-in-Chief • 809-6877

The News

Cheers to ...

Super Bowl commercials!

As the 49ers and the Ravens fight for the title, the rest of us can sit back and enjoy the beer commercials.

s

Cheers & Jeers

Jeers to ... tornadoes in Ja n u a r y.

Four years ago this time we had an ice storm, but now we don’t even get snow? Still think climate change isn’t happening?

ew

Cheers to ... the hardworking men and women who made sure that Cheers & Jeers is written by the lights came the Opinion Editor. back on after Questions, concerns or com- Tuesday night’s storms. ments should be addressed to Thank you for making dgriggs@murraystate.edu coffee and looking up cat memes online a reality.

eN

As is obvious from his verse, Dunbar knew what depression was all about. After achieving international fame as a poet and novelist as a young man, he suffered from tuberculosis and then debilitating depression, which led to a dependence on alcohol and an early death at 33.

So many of my students are burdened with depression. I know because you tell me. And then you are sometimes surprised to know that I understand exactly what you are going through. Perhaps a professor’s ability to empathize with you is a comfort of a sort, for I know that many students are overwhelmed with pressures that seem to have your worlds spinning out of control. You are not alone.

Evelyn believes that my struggles with depression coincide with the academic calendar, that she can predict when a particular bout of melancholia will ensue.

Perhaps she is right, but sometimes “the black dog” catches us all unawares. And when those dark days come, we ask for grace, and pray that the light will come once again.

And the light will come. Or as the Psalmist wrote, “weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”

Students, don’t dismiss depression.

Help is available on campus at Health Services, 136 Wells Hall, 809-3809 or the Psychological Center, 401 Wells Hall, 809-2504.

/Th

Eyes that look into the future,– Peeping forth from out my mind, They will find Some new weight, soon or late, On my soul to bind, Crushing all its courage out,– Heavier than doubt.”

on

Wearily I sit and listen To the water’s ceaseless drip.

To my lip Fate turns up the bitter cup, Forcing me to sip; ‘Tis a bitter, bitter drink, Thus I sit and think,–

ats W

“Silently without my window, Tapping gently at the pane, Falls the rain.

Through the trees sighs the breeze Like a soul in pain.

Here alone I sit and weep; Thought hath banished sleep.

an Ev

In violating their own pledge to evaluate a continuation on President Randy Dunn’s contract a year prior to its expiration, the Board of Regents has succumbed to one of the more fashionable trends of the past decade: apathy. It would seem it doesn’t matter to the Regents that not making a decision on a University president could make a big difference in the lives of students. It’ll all be fine. Things will just work themselves out like they always do. No need to hold yourself to the standard you set for yourself only three years ago.

Of course, the Board of Regents is hardly the only body at Murray State University to have caught the apathy virus. What has the administration done lately for the average Murray State student? Spent a good chunk of change to bring a movie director to campus for a lecture that few of us will attend for anything other than extra credit? The failure of the administration to do much of anything in the way of student betterment is quite evident when we see our tuition climb every year. Why can’t the administration figure out what students need or what they even want from them?

But we shouldn’t go so easy on ourselves, either. The student body is the biggest victim of the apathy virus. Tuition goes up year after year, and no one says a damn thing about it. No protests, no refusals to pay, no letters to the editor or independent bids for student government – nothing. City stickers get crammed down our throats, and no one says a word. Nobody decides to run for city council, nobody gets the people who voted in the ordinance voted out – nothing. The only thing that seems to bother the student body these days is whether or not we’ll be able to get a beer at Burrito Shack.

Maybe we’re being too hard on everyone involved. Maybe the Board of Regents has legitimate reasons for not bringing up Dunn’s contract – and we’d love to hear them aired in a public forum. As long as we are denied the right to hear the concerns or comments by the board about Dunn, however, we stand by our judgment that the board really just doesn’t seem concerned about potentially losing our president to another school. Maybe Dunn and the administration really are doing as much as they can, and we, as students, just aren’t doing anything from there. Or maybe we as students just don’t have the time, the drive or energy to get anything done – maybe it’s all pointless and maybe apathy is just our way of expressing that. Hell, maybe it’s our fault at The News for not keeping you informed on what’s going on around campus and in our community. We’ll take the blame if you’d like to lay it at our feet.

But this “Things are too complicated and we just can’t do anything to change that,” attitude isn’t going to work anymore. Someone needs to be held accountable for the bullshit we all put up with on a day–to–day basis, whether it’s high tuition rates or being burdened with student loan debt for the rest of our lives.

This University is supposed to be the engine that transforms students from the high school educated into the professional, the average Joe into the doctors, the teachers, the lawyers, the presidents and executives of the future – and we’re going to settle for this?

If the student body allows itself to be run over by the forces of apathy, it will be too late to do much of anything about tuition, or city stickers, or booze, or gay rights or gun rights or whatever it is that you care about on this campus.

The point we are trying to get across is that we don’t have to take it, and we don’t have to stand for it anymore. We have the power to shape how this University operates.

We have the power to change how this city works. This is democracy, folks, and we have the ultimate say as taxpayers who fund this institution and pay its faculty and staff with our tuition dollars.

Tired of tuition going up every year? Get out on the Quad and protest. Get enough people to stop paying tuition for a month, and you’ll see some changes around here and around the country. Make your voice heard by writing a letter to the editor, or by “occupying” Randy Dunn’s front yard, or just stand with a megaphone in the Free Speech Zone and preach it. What’s important is that you do something. We’ll make sure you get the coverage you deserve. Anybody can take the time to vote in an SGA election on myGate and then go about their business for the next year – but that’s not how democracy works. Democracy doesn’t end at the ballot box. It is not something that can be tucked away, something that can be ignored or something that can be forgotten. If we are to truly have it, is something that must be lived. Democracy is a way of life and it’s time we had a lifestyle change on campus to reflect that.

Meghann Anderson News Editor • 809-4468

Ryan Richardson Online Editor • 809-5877

Devin Griggs Opinion Editor • 809-5873

Brandon Orr Advertising Manager • 809-4478

Anna Taylor Features Editor • 809-5871

Wes Yonts Advertising Production • 809-5874

Jaci Kohn Sports Editor • 809-4481

Kylie Townsend Photography Editor • 809-5878

Chris Wilcox Chief Copy Editor • 809-5876

Kyser Lough Interim Adviser • 809-3937

The News welcomes commentaries and letters to the editor. Letters should be 300 words or less. Contributors should include phone numbers for verification. Please include hometown, classification and title or relationship to the University. Commentaries should be between 600 to 800 words. The News reserves the right to edit for style, length and content. No anonymous contributions will be accepted. All contributions should be turned in by noon on Tuesday of each week via email at letters@thenews.org. Contributions to The News are the opinion of the author and not that of The Murray State News.

From the front: Kylie Townsend/The News The News strives to be the University community’s source for information. Our goal is to present that information in a fair and unbiased manner and provide a free and open forum for expression and debate.

The News is a designated public forum. Student editors have authority to make all content decisions without censorship or advance approval. The paper offers a hands-on learning environment for students interested in journalism. The campus press should be free from censorship and advance approval of copy, and its editors should develop their editorial and news policies.

The News is prepared and edited by students and is an official publication of Murray State University. The first copy is free. Additional copies are available for 25 cents at 111 Wilson Hall.

The News

Opinion

February 1, 2013

5A Born in the U.S.A.

Do we need stricter gun laws?

YES! I am writing to say that Republicans and some very conservative Democrats are on the wrong side of gun control and “Obamacare”.

First, I know everyone has heard about the tragic killing of the grade school children and the adults in Connecticut.

Even though the killer had two hand guns, I believe that he used the AR-15 assault rifle to do most of the killing. If I am not mistaken, these assault rifles were banned for 10 years up until the mid 2000s. Now, most Republicans and very conservative Democrats seem to be

just fine with the current laws.

I ask you, why does anyone, outside of the armed forces, need an assault rifle of this killing capacity? The public who wants these rifles say they like to target practice and hunt with these rifles.

There are hand guns and other kinds of rifles that can do these same things!

Again, why allow assault rifles to be owned by the public? I say these kinds of rifles should not be allowed!

Second, I believe the Republicans and very conservative Democrats need to study “Obamacare” much, much more. I believe conservatives are supposed to be against “the free giveaway programs like Medicaid.” I have heard the President say himself that all but the very poor citizens, will have to be on

some kind of health insurance and or pay the government some money to buy insurance from the government! I ask you, isn’t this a way to eliminate some of the current “giveaway” of Medicaid?

I personally know families that had ALL of their children using Medicaid.

These families pay a net of no income taxes and get a large sum of money back by using the child tax credit and the earned income credit! Wouldn’t Obamacare get rid of some of this outrageous government give away ?

I ask you, please ponder these two subjects to see how you really, really feel about these controversial issues!

Tim Bledsoe non-student from North Augusta, S.C.

complex and vague.” “The right to bare arms shall not be infringed.” How on earth is that complex and vague? s New “What defines a well regulated militia?” It’s already e /Th tson been defined by federal law. According to the Second Milita a As a life member of the National nW Eva Act of 1792, the militia is every male between the ages of 18 and 45.

Rifle Association, I’d like to In other words, if you fit in that requirement and, like in the movies, comment on various parts there’s a giant, post-apocalyptic nightmare, don’t make any plans. of your gun conUncle Sam will still want you. trol editorial of Last, but not least, you protest against guns and violence, and then Jan. 18, beginning you give “Django Unchained” four and a half stars? Can you say douwith the statement, ble standard?

“Yes, one might I’ll close with a statement made by a gun store owner in a recent telargue the shooter didevision interview. n’t buy the weapons used in the crime.”

“I would be glad to stop selling the AKs, the ARs, and the large caWe can say that because that’s what happened! He stole pacity magazines. They make up only 10 percent of my business. I the guns, just like almost all criminals. They don’t go to gun would be glad to stop selling them if I knew that would be the end of shows. The comment said in effect, “Yes, he stole the guns, it, that the gun controllers would stop. But they’ll still continue, and however, let’s not use fact or logic.” they will not stop until every gun I have is banned and taken.”

“Sandy Hook is not an isolated incident.” According to one criminologist, Grant Duwe, of Minnesota’s Department Michael Skaggs of Corrections, the evidence shows that the high point for mass killings in the United States was 1929, mass killings non-student from have declined 40 percent since 2000, the chances of getting Murray, Ky. killed in a mass shooting are the same as being hit by lightning, and until Sandy Hook, the three worst K-12 school shootings were in either Britain or Germany, countries with strong or total gun control.

“Sandy Hook. Aurora. Columbine. Hazard. Heath.” The roll call of fatal shootings have one thing in common. They were all gun free zones! Muzzle loaders could have been used to the same effect. The murderers deliberately went there knowing his tarfets would be unarmed and wouldn’t stand a chance.

The Aurora murderer had seven theaters within 20 minutes of his home. He didn’t select the largest or the closest.

He selected the only one where firearms were banned.

There were 200 people in that theater. Since 4 percent of Colorado adults have gun permits, that means there could have been 8 armed people who could have stopped him that night.

Except for Tucson in 2011, every public shooting since ❖ There were 11,078 gun murders in 2010 (lowest rate 1950 in the United States where three or more people were since at least 1981) killed took place where guns were banned.

“We feel the (assault weapons) ban is a common sense ❖ There were 138,336 instances of aggravated assault measure.” The assault weapons ban was allowed to expire with a gun in 2011 (lowest rate since at least 2004) in 2004 because it had no effect on the crime rate. Other forms of “commonsense measures” in other states include ❖ 88.8 per 100 people owned a gun in 2007 (up from 84 Massachusetts, where you have to have a Firearms Identifiper 100 in 2001) cation Card to buy or carry pepper spray and Rhode Island, where on the gun application you have to list all of the tat❖ 6,107,512 guns were manufactured in 2011 (up from toos you have (I am not making that one up!).

“Bullied by the NRA ... with billions and billions of dol3,717,831 in 2007) lars.” You believe in a constitutional amendment and you’re ❖ Among 23 populous, high-income countries, 80 pera bully? If you vote, does that make you a vote bully? Also, I would love to see the finance records you have on that last cent of all firearms deaths occurred in the United claim.

States.

“Obama has been the best president on gun ownership rights.” As a state senator and U.S. senator President Obama ❖ Four Presidents (Lincoln, Garfield, McKinley, supported or voted for restrictions on gun shows, banning Kennedy) have been shot and killed with a gun. hunting rifle ammunition, local handgun bans, waiting periods, limited gun buys, banning right to carry laws and a ban Compiled by Devin Griggs, opinion editor, from on all gun stores within five miles of a school or park.

Is there a another President Obama that I don’t know FactCheck.Org and the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun about?

Violence (bradycampaign.org) “The language of the Second Amendment is needlessly

NO!

Facts & Stats about guns in America

Comics

Of, by and for the people Ronald Reagan quipped that the nine most terrifying words in the English language were “I’m from the government and I’m here to help.”

The campaign against “big government” has been Devin Griggs in full swing since Opinion Editor the 1980s. Opposed to the growth of government except when it favors their social or foreign policy agendas, the small government right holds that government is always inefficient, too expensive and often tyrannical. This kind of conservatism is typified in popular culture by characters like Ron Swanson (played by Nick Offerman) on NBC’s Parks and Recreation, the director of parks and recreation in the fictional town of Pawnee, Ind., who doesn’t even believe in doing the job his department is tasked with. “I think that all government is a waste of taxpayer money,” Swanson said in the show’s pilot.

Parks and Recreation actually makes for a good foil for which to view the debates ongoing in our democracy, from Wingo to Washington. I’ll admit that it’s my favorite show on television in part because of Amy Poehler’s character, Leslie Knope, the Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation who frequently spars with her boss because of her view that government can be good and do well for the people of her town. Knope is a character that I can identify with because we agree philosophically – government should be a force for good in our society.

While I understand having a healthy skepticism of government and share it with my libertarian friends when it comes to government poking around in the bedroom or at the library, I fundamentally believe that government has a role in our society in helping those who cannot help themselves.

Government is often harangued as inefficient by its detractors, but when government goes head to head with the private sector, it can’t always be deemed the inefficient of the two. Social Security, for example, has never missed a payment since its inception and hasn’t ever lost its value in the same way that tax-favored private accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs have since the Great Recession began.

Medicare runs a tighter ship with less overhead cost than the majority of private health insurers, the majority of which spend more money on CEO bonuses and compensation packages rather than actual health care.

Those who decry “big government” for how much it costs seem to overlook the fact that the vast majority of services it provides are far cheaper than their private sector equivalents, both to maintain and operate. I rode from Carbondale to Chicago on the Amtrak for $44 recently – how much do you think that ticket would have cost had I been paying the cost of a railroad executive’s compensation package?

Government isn’t the solution to all of our problems, but it can be a solution.

The founders of this great country of ours knew that and instituted government as an instrument by which Americans would be able to work with one another to solve problems and get things done. We have a duty to ourselves and our posterity to make that government of, by and for the people the best one possible.

For the full version of this week’s Born in the U.S.A, please visit thenews.org.

Devin Griggs is vice president of finances for the Murray State College Democrats. dgriggs@murraystate.edu

Lance picks his (new) poison

by Greg Knipp

Grift Town

By Casey Vandergrift

The News

News

6A

NEWS PULSE

Greeks narrow sororities, update social policy Meghann Anderson || News Editor manderson22@murraystate.edu

Information and photos from The Associated Press Compiled by Ben Manhanke

INSURRECTION CONTINUES In an attempt to assert his authority, Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi enstated a 30-day curfew on three Suez Canal provinces in an address Sunday night. In response, thousands of citizens from Port Said, Ismailia and Suez took to the streets in protest.

February 1, 2013

Murray State’s Greek Life program has been under many changes in the last year under the direction of Jason Hinson-Nolen, interim Greek Life coordinator.

Hinson-Nolen began making changes from day one in September when he helped bring some of the largest recruitment numbers the University has ever seen.

Now, Hinson-Nolen is working on expansion with the University’s Greek community.

A new sorority will be added to the University this fall. From the six that sought out Murray State, the final four in the search are Kappa Delta, Phi Mu, Delta Zeta and Gamma Phi Beta.

The four groups will give presentations during February and March to Panhellenic and the new sorority should arrive on campus in the fall.

Each sorority will have day-long presentations which include a reception, a private discussion with the committee and an open public forum with the Greek community. The dates for the presentations are from Feb. 15 to March 13.

Hinson-Nolen has also revamped the standards program and changed the areas where the board will be holding the students accountable.

“The standards board is huge in its creation because it gets rid of a major problem,” Hinson-Nolen said. “We’ve had a major problem in Greek Life on this campus of not really having any accountability pieces and we’ve been relying on IFC (Interfraternity Council) or Panhellenic or National Pan-Hellenic Council to police themselves. Now the standards board can handle everyone.”

Members for the new standards board include Ben Moser, Blake Thomas, AJ Glaser, Morgan Steiner, Taylor Miller and Catherine Steele. There are three representatives from Panhellenic and IFC. NPHC is still in the process of choosing their members.

“It really tries to incorporate the needs of IFC, Panhellenic and NPHC,” HinsonNolen said. “Currently when it comes to social events especially in the check-in process, that’s really where we innovated. I think Murray State is on the front end of that because no one else is doing what we are doing.”

Monday night at the state of the Greek community address Hinson-Nolen updated the members on the new standards board and social policy.

The new Greek standards program includes standards for University paperwork and updates of

records, event attendance, general social policy, new members, alcohol-related issues, academic integrity, unbecoming individual or group conduct, assaults and fights, vandalism, theft, disorderly conduct, reckless endangerment, hazing and other issues related to Greek Life and the University.

Charetta Pittman, junior from Memphis, Tenn., said events like the state of the Greek community address unify the University’s Greek members and things such as a new social policy are an opportunity for success.

Sara Wallace, sophomore from Paducah, Ky., Alpha Gamma Delta’s social chair, said the new Greek standards Board is a very important and unique feature being added to Murray State.

Failure to comply with the standards policy will result in the student being sent to Mike Young, associate vice president of Student Affairs.

“It will make social policies much easier to comply with as well as build a strong sense of accountability for our Greek campus,” Wallace said. “The bylaws were written specific to Murray State's campus, keeping the wellbeing of our Greek members in mind.”

She said Hinson-Nolen is a great addition to Murray State, and brings many new and modern ideas of how to enhance Greek Life.

ΚΔ

ΦΜ

ΔΖ

ΓΦΒ

Frankencycle heads to California Rebecca Walter || Contributing writer rwalter@murraystate.edu

MASS DEATH IN BRAZILIAN CLUB

More than 230 club-goers died in a fire Sunday morning in the Brazilian club Kiss when pyrotechnics from the performing band Gurizada Fandangueira caught the building’s roof on fire.

The number of injured from the club fire totaled 142.

CORRECTION In last week’s edition of The News, Kathryn Reinhardt’s name was misspelled in an front page article titled, “Preparations underway for 76th Campus Lights.”

The article also misrepresented the time for the event.

“Frankencycle,” a hydraulic-powered bicycle designed by five Murray State students, will head to Irvine, Calif., on April 10 to compete in Parker’s Chainless Challenge bike competition.

Parker’s Chainless Challenge’s main objective is to promote original thinking in a competitive setting by combining two technology platforms that are not normally associated with one another: the bicycle and fluid power.

Competing in Parker’s Challenge are Bryan McCoil, junior from Kings Park, N.Y.; Colby White, junior from Russel Springs, Ky.; Dustin Patton, junior from Murray; Bryant Harrison, senior from Dover, Tenn.; and Mohanad Maghrabi, sophomore from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Students were selected from the electromechanical engineering technology program and have been preparing the hydraulic powered bike since the beginning of last semester.

The goal of the challenge is to design a bike with a hydraulic drive system that can compete in a number of different events. Some of the events include completing four laps

around a two-mile course in 90 minutes, finishing a 200-meter sprint race and completing the efficiency challenge using a regenerative system.

Sanjeevi Chitikeshi, adviser of the project, said Murray State is the only regional university in this part of the competition.

All bicycle entries must meet criteria for reliability, maneuverability and cost effectiveness, but the biggest factor is the means of power for each bike has to be hydraulic, meaning no chain.

“We have all put in a lot of hard work and commitment to finish this project,” Maghrabi said. “I hope that it all pays off for us in the end.”

“Frankencycle” has no internal combustion system, electric motor or other modes of power. Competitors have to do a great deal of practice beforehand to make sure they are prepared and ready to go during the event.

“I believe this group of students has the skills and enthusiasm to finish the bicycle and do well at the competition,” Chitikeshi said.

“Moreover, they are implementing the knowledge of what they have learned in the classroom and are using it to show what Murray State has to offer.”

Kylie Townsend/The News

BRIDGE NIGHTMARE: More than a year ago, on Jan. 26, 2012, the Delta Mariner, struck a portion of the Eggners Ferry Bridge that stretches over Kentucky Lake.

An emergency contract to repair and reopen the damaged Eggners Ferry Bridge was established and plans were announced for the bridge to reopen

by May 27. The KTC accepted a $7 million bid proposed by Hall Contracting of Kentucky, Inc. Less than six months after the accident, the 300-foot span of the bridge collapsed was replaced.

The road to success has a passing lane.

The 13-Month Full-Time MBA. Want to get ahead in business, and in life? In just 13 months, you can get a world-class MBA from a pacesetting business school.

The Full-Time MBA program from the University of Louisville features a proven curriculum, study abroad and paid internship opportunities – providing you with a highly respected degree, a marketable new skill set and valuable professional experience.

There’s no faster way to get ahead of the pack.

February 1, 2013

Section B

The News

Sports

Sports Editor: Jaci Kohn Phone: 809-4481 Twitter: MSUNewsSports

From the Bullpen Did they come back?

I didn’t realize how much I had missed hockey until I sat down to watch the game.

I had been looking forward to this game since I Jaci Kohn first heard Sports Editor about the lockout. Sitting alone in my room, decked out head to toe in the Chicago Blackhawks’ team’s colors, the anticipation was overwhelming.

When the puck finally dropped, I think I may have screamed. I know it’s pretty pathetic but that’s how much I wanted to watch a hockey game. I had forewarned my friend that if they disturbed me during this game, they would be sorry.

My favorite player, Patrick Kane, scored the first goal of the game. It was the perfect way to start off the season. It could only have been better had I been there in person.

As I sat on my bed watching the game, screaming at my TV as the teams made close plays, I couldn’t help but think how much damage the lockout had caused the NHL. Besides missing over half of a season, many fans were not happy with the owners, players and league.

I wondered, if the fans would come back, and if so, would they be as crazy and into it as they used to be? Had too much damage been done? Before the lockout, the NHL was seeing a huge peak in interest. More and more games were being played on major TV networks.

When the lockout was in full force, a different person was to blame each week. One day it was the team owners, then it was the hockey players and many times it was Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner.

For many, Bettman became the face of evil. Following all the shifts during the lockout was exhausting.

So would the fans come back?

Had too much happened and left them feeling disgruntled and angry? Or would the fans welcome the sport back into their lives with open arms, ready for the beginning of a surely exciting season?

As I sat watching the game, I wasn’t sure. But they did. They came back in full force. That first week saw record viewing for NBC. Even the blacked out games had high viewership.

According to SBNation.com, the network averaged 507,000 veiwers over the first week of the season.

This is 27 percent better than last season’s average for the first four games.

I should not have been worried.

In the weeks right before the beginning of the seasons my Facebook, Tumblr and Twitter pages were full of hockey spam. On my Tumblr pages all I saw for a while were posts with pictures of Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, Patrick Sharp and many other Chicago Blackhawks’ players.

So why did the fans remain so loyal to the NHL and their teams?

After all, there were some very unhappy people in the hockey world. Hockey is a very exciting and intense sport. You can be up close and into the action even if you have seats far away.

All players say they care about their fans, but the NHL players actually do. Players, coaches and owners throughout the lockout apologized for having to cancel games and not being able to resolve their issues quickly. Now that the lockout is over and the season has begun, many of the teams have put out promotions and videos thanking fans for their patience.

Hockey is my favorite sport, and I am so happy it is finally back and stronger than ever. jkohn@murraystate.edu.

File photo

Senior Isaiah Canaan looks for a pass during last years match against Austin Peay. The Racers defeated the Governors 82-63.

Racers hope to flush Peay Jonathan Ferris || Staff writer jferris2@murraystate.edu

Coming off what Head Coach Steve Prohm described as one of the tougher losses in the last several years, last Saturday at Jacksonville State, the Racers now have a much needed week of rest and preparation before their next game.

While the loss dropped the Racers’ conference record to 6-2, they still maintain a tight grip on the top spot in the West Division, with a three game lead over second-place SIU Evansville.

“We’re 15-5, you know; I think we’re in good position,” Prohm said. “Yeah I wish we were 17-3, but you know we’re 15-5; that’s a 75 percent winning percentage. We still have another half of conference. We’ve got six of nine home games so we just need to get great crowds and great energy and just play well down the stretch.”

The Racers now face a three-game home stand over eight days, but it certainly will not be easy. Two of the three games will be against a couple of the top teams in the conference.

Belmont remains the lone undefeated team in conference play, and will come to Murray Thursday night.

Two days later, Tennessee State will make its return to the CFSB Center after a memorable game last season where they beat the ninth ranked Racers, ending their 23-0 start. Prohm is not getting ahead of himself, however.

He is solely focused on Saturday’s rivalry game against Austin Peay.

“We’ve got to be locked in and ready,” Prohm said. “You know everybody will probably start talking about next week against Belmont and Tennessee State, but that’s the furthest thing from my mind right now.”

Saturday will mark the second matchup between the two this season.

The Racers beat the Governors Jan. 12 in Clarksville, Tenn., in a hard-fought 71-68 game.

Junior guard Travis Betran made the game difficult for the Racers in the first matchup, scoring a game-high 27 points and chipping in five assists. He was particularly accurate from 3-point range, sinking five deep balls and shooting 46 percent from beyond the arc.

In a Tuesday press conference, Prohm said his team must do a better job of containing the Harlem, N.Y. native if they are going to complete the season sweep of Austin Peay. “(Betran) is a good player,” Prohm said. “He can really shoot and really score. We’ve got to be a little more locked in on him, hedging ball screens and not letting him get as comfortable.”

Since conference play began, Prohm’s team has played extremely tough defense, allowing an average of 60.6 points per game, the lowest in the OVC. Additionally, the Racers lead the league in field goal percentage against, with opposing teams shooting just 41 percent when playing Murray State. This marks a turnaround from the beginning of the season, where defense seemed to be the Racers’ greatest weakness.

Through its first seven games against Division I opponents, the team gave up over 71 points per game.

Unfortunately, as Murray State’s defense has improved, the offense – particularly shooting – has worsened.

Ranking eighth in the league in

scoring with 66.8 points per game and 10th in field goal percentage, the shots simply are not falling for the Racers.

“We’ve missed a lot of open shots,” Prohm said. “(Jeffery Moss) and Dexter (Fields) were 2-17 this past weekend and that’s tough because those are the guys getting the open shots when everybody converges in on Isaiah.

We’ll make shots, and when we start playing better offensively, we’re going to be very good.”

While the team has struggled to shoot the ball over the past several games, they do not plan on changing their style of play and will continue to let the shots fly early and often.

“You can’t stop doing what you work on,” senior guard Isaiah Canaan said. “They’re not falling right now, but they’ll start falling for us down the road. We can’t stop doing it just because the shots are not falling. We’ve got to continue to keep doing what we’re good at.”

The team works to remedy their offensive troubles as they prepare to beat Austin Peay for the fifth straight time Saturday at noon at the CFSB Center.

Emme travels to Germany, finishes eighth Laura Kovarik || Staff writer lkovarik@murraystate.edu

Murray State sophomore Kelsey Emme received the opportunity of a lifetime when she traveled to Munich, Germany, for the Bavarian Airgun Championships Jan. 24-26.

In order to qualify, the shooters were chosen based on their performances at the Winter Airgun Championships this past November in Colorado Springs, Colo. Two Olympic shooters, 2008 Olympian Brian Beaman and 2012 Olympian Nick Mowrer were among the athletes.

Emme shot a 103.1 on the final day of competition at the Winter Airgun Championships; which qualified her for a spot on the team.

Early this year, she shot a final score of 103, making her the 2012 USA Shooting Junior Air Rifle National Champion.

The journey to Munich began with a 10-hour flight from Washington, D.C. to Germany. The competition is spread over the course of two days.

Upon arriving in Germany, the U.S. team traveled to two major gun factories. The team took tours of the facilities and some even had their guns worked on while there.

Remaining calm and focused was the biggest challenge, Emme said. The rifle range they shot on housed 100 lanes.

“I prepared how I would any other match, I tried to remain calm and not let the big-stage get to me” she said. “Going into the second day, after shooting well the first day, it was a struggle not to put too much pressure on myself.”

Shooting all season long with the Racers, the repetition and training helped Emme deal with the pressure.

“I think this will help with my collegiate shooting, it definitely taught me to keep my standards higher than I have been,” Emme said. “I know I can shoot a

Photo courtesy of Sports Information

Senior Kelsey Emme finished eighth in Women’s Open Air Final. This is the first step toward the 2016 Olympics. lot better than I have been and I’m going to keep working toward that goal.”

Three of the six American finalists medaled.

Emme earned a spot in the finals in the Women’s Open Air Final; she shot a 398/400.

The Bavarian Airgun Rifle Championships are the beginning of the long road to the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.

WHAT’S

AUSTIN PEAY

INSIDE

Women get ready to take on New transfer prepares to help OVC rival, 2B Racers next year, 3B

TJ SAPP

ANIMAL MEMES

The U. S. shooting coaches and staff said in an article at Ammoland.com, “they have identified 2013 as a developmental progression year in which they’ll try and expose as many elite and emerging elite athletes to advance training and competition in order to create depth in all shooting disciplines.”

The Racers are glad to have Emme back in the U. S. as they prepare for the OVC Championships.

DIY CHEVRON

Students obsess with online pho- Learn how to make your own tos and social media accounts, 5B chevron rug, 7B

Sports

2B Swing and a Drive The Murray State Tradition, Part 3 This week we take a look back to the very beginning.

I won’t be sharing the story of a player, but rather a coach – the coach who started Jonathan Murray State Ferris basketball.

Staff writer In 1925, three years after Murray Normal School and Teachers College was founded, president and founder Rainey T. Wells made a trip to Mayfield High School.

He went looking for a math teacher and former athlete by the name of Carlisle Cutchin.

Wells asked Cutchin to come to Murray to head up athletics.

Whether Cutchin knew this meant handling everything from physical education classes to coaching basketball, football, baseball and serving as athletic director is unknown. Regardless, he accepted the offer and came to Murray in the summer of 1925.

Cutchin’s first project was the launching of a basketball team.

Barely big enough to fit a full size basketball court, the stage of Lovett was the team’s first home.

Cutchin coached the first ever Murray State basketball team to a 9-5 record in 1925-26.

Over the next 15 seasons, Cutchin’s teams went 267-101, finishing only one season with a losing record. The winning tradition of Murray State basketball is no joke. It has been a winning program since day one.

Cutchin’s most successful team was the 1940-41 Thoroughbreds. It amassed a 26-5 record and made it all the way to the NAIA Title Game where it lost to San Diego State, 36-34.

As if building a brand new basketball program from the ground up wasn’t enough, Cutchin also coached the football and baseball teams. In just its second season, he led the football team to an undefeated 6-0-1 record.

Coaching the football team for five years, Cutchin amassed another impressive career record of 36-11-4.

In a time where Adolph Rupp and Ed Diddle were creating basketball dynasties at the University of Kentucky and Western Kentucky respectively Cutchin was quietly building a successful basketball program of his own in the isolated far-western corner of the state. As UK and WKU basketball captivated the central part of the state, the Thoroughbreds of Murray Normal School captured the hearts of those in the eight-county Jackson Purchase region of the state.

While Rupp and Diddle’s teams dazzled the media, Cutchin was not as flashy, coaching hard-working, defensive-minded teams.

Cutchin’s stout personality served as the base on which the program was built. It is a culture which still permeates the program today.

I can’t tell you how many times I have heard Coach Prohm preaching his defense-first mentality or seen Ed Daniel physically dominate a person down low to violently seize a rebound. That is exactly the mentality Cutchin instilled in the 1920s and it remains unchanged nearly 90 years later.

Cutchin remains the all-time winningest basketball coach with 267 victories to his name. Additionally, his .750 winning percentage as football coach also remains the highest for any football coach in program history.

Cutchin was the first coach to be inducted into the Murray State Hall of Fame in 1970, and the former basketball arena, Cutchin Fieldhouse (also known as Racer Arena) remains named in his honor to this day. jferris2@murraystate.edu.

Photo courtesy of Murray State Athletics

The News February 1, 2013

Softball

Softball picked to finish third Megan Kavy || Contributing writer mkavy@murraystate.edu

After finishing third last year in the East Division of the OVC, the Racer softball team is predicted to finish third again this season, according to the annual preseason poll taken by the league’s coaches and sports information directors.

Head Coach Kara Amundson is not surprised with the team’s predicted ranking.

She said that often times, the preseason polls match up with how teams finish the previous season and are not always how teams will finish the next season.

Amundson strongly believes the team can finish the season higher than third.

“I think we’re very capable to end up on the top of that division,” she said. “I think that is something we’re working towards every day.”

This third place ranking is an extra incentive for the team to show the rest of the division Murray State should be at the top of the list rather than third.

“It’s kind of like motivation,” senior catcher Ellyn Troup said. “We’re going to prove everyone else wrong.”

Troup hopes to finish strong for her senior season. Personally, she wants to stay calm, do her job and have fun this season.

The ultimate goal for the team is to come out on top of the division and win the OVC championship, she said.

“That’s one of the things that I haven’t accomplished yet that I would very much like to,” Troup said.

Amundson said she feels the team is

definitely on track for a first-place finish. The freshmen players have been mixing well with the returning players, and Amundson is very proud of how the team has come together so far this year.

“The team chemistry has been phenomenal,” she said. “It has been a joy to coach them so far.”

In previous years, the Racers have been ranked low in the preseason polls and have ended up finishing much higher than predicted.

The team sees this as a good thing, because the other teams in the conference will underestimate how the Racers will finish the season.

UT Martin and Eastern Illinois were selected to finish ahead of the Racers. Both teams are good contenders, but Amundson does not believe they are impossible to defeat.

“They are teams we can compete with everyday and should be able to beat,” she said.

Amundson is confident the team is prepared for the competition in their division and understands they must play at the top of their game.

The Racers have been working hard in practice, sometimes through undesirable weather conditions, to prepare themselves for the tough conference games this season.

With good team chemistry and a little extra motivation, both Amundson and Troup feel that this year’s team is prepared for an exciting season.

The Racers’ first game of the season is Feb. 15 at Mississippi State.

They kick off conference play at home on March 16 at 12 p.m. against Southeast Missouri.

Photo courtesy of Sports Information

Senior Shelby Kosmecki winds up as she prepare to throw a pitch during a fall season game.

Track and Field

Track has momentum for SIU Invite Jaci Kohn || Sports Editor jkohn@murraystate.edu

The Murray State track team had a successful weekend at the Indiana Relays in Bloomington, Ind., but now has its sights on the Southern Illinois Invitational hosted by SIU Carbondale.

At this point in the season, Head Coach Jenny Severns just wants to see her team taking steps forward each competition and doing better than they previously had, she said.

“We have been doing a good job at getting better every meet and that is just what we were looking for,” Severns said. “I mean, at this time of the year that is all you can hope for.”

Sophomore Ashley Conway from McHenry, Ill., brought home the highest placing for the Racers. She placed third in the high jump with a leap of 5-3 1/2.

She also finished 13th in the long jump.

Also placing in the long jump for Murray State was Jolyta Taylor, who finished ninth. She recorded a

jump of 17-2 1/2. This was a personal record for Taylor.

The relay team of Taylor, senior Alexis Love, junior Sharda Bettis and sophomore LaShea Shaw placed 12th in the 4x400 relay with a time of 3:55.27.

This was a team best time.

The team of freshman Alicyn Hester, sophomore Brittany Bohm, freshman Emma Gilmore and freshman Leah Krause finished in eighth place in the 4x800 with a time of 10:01.18.

Tonia Pratt, sophomore from Michigan Center, Mich., finished eighth in the shot put with a throw of 43-3 3/4.

Bettis said at this meet she wanted to prove that she came back from her injury strong and is able to compete and get through the race without sinking.

“With the hurdles I just wanted to make sure I had a good race underneath me,” she said. “I didn’t run what I planned to run, but I did run well enough to get back to the semifinals.”

Up next for the Racers is the Southern Illinois In-

vitational in Carbondale, Ill. This will be the last meet before the Racers compete at the OVC Championships.

Severns said they will treat this meet the same as the one before, although not everyone will be competing at the invite.

“A lot of people will have the weekend off,” she said. “For the people that are racing, we are going to try to get some good times so they can get into faster heats at OVCs and for our next meet at Grand Valley (State Big Meet).”

Sophomore Ashley Conway hopes to compete better this weekend, after being disappointed with her performance in Indiana.

“I am going to work on getting lower when I take off because I have been jumping really tall, which is not doing any help for me,” she said. “I want to get lower so I can use the power of my legs to get up.”

The track team will compete at the Southern Illinois Invitational will Feb. 1-2.

Basketball

Women hope to shine vs Austin Peay Carly Besser || Staff writer cbesser@murraystate.edu

Halfway through conference play, with the OVC tournament just two months away, the Racers are showing aspects of a championship-caliber team.

Against Tennessee Tech, the team that knocked them out of the bracket and went on to win the tournament last year, Murray State shot for a season-high 48.1 percent and started the first half off with 9-0 run. It was their fourth-straight win in conference play.

In their last four games, the Racers have won by double digits. The slow starting offense and poor offensive rebounds were what Head Coach Rob Cross said were holding them back in the three game losing streak at the beginning of the season.

Against Eastern Illinois, Murray State showed defensive prowess ,holding them to just two field goals in the second half.

“It was a great effort defensively on our part,” Cross said. “We held them for 30 percent from the field, with their talent level all over the court. If you look at that team, they really seem to have all conference-caliber players.”

After two road wins against Jacksonville State and Tennessee Tech, the Racers will now return to the CFSB Center to face OVC rival Austin Peay.

Michelle Grimaud/The News

Freshman Erica Sisk from Oxford, Miss., looks for an open player.

The Racers have improved in play development, a stronger defense and a more aggressive offense, but the latest victory against Austin Peay was too close to go unnoticed.

If Murray State wants to guarantee the win, it will take some changing up

of the defensive strategy and a similar, consistent offense shown in the last four games.

The game will be Murray State’s second of the season against the Governors and the first at home.

Against Austin Peay, the Racers

pulled out a tightly clenched 77-72 win for the first time since 2009 in Clarksville, Tenn.

“It’s a tough place to play, down there in the Dunn Center,” Cross said.

“We really played an aggressive game.

I thought we were into it mentally. We were very focused. We were able to maintain poise and execute down the stretch and really challenge their toughness. They were out rebounding us at that point, and we out rebounded them 12-2 by the end of the game.”

Cross said rebounds will be key in holding the Governors to a lower score. Because of a more relaxed defense, Austin Peay managed to score 17 second-chance points to put the Racers in a hole early in the second half.

Austin Peay was also powerful close to the net, scoring 26 of their 72 points in the paint.

Guards like leading scorer Meghan Bussabarger will be difficult to guard in the post with her 6-foot frame and added talent beyond the arc.

The Racers will need a height advantage with players like freshman forward Kelsey Dirks to put pressure on a team with fast breaks. If the Racers manage to maintain focus and hold on to a lead through the second half, it could be a sweep against Austin Peay.

Tipoff is Feb. 2 at 2:15 p.m. at the CFSB Center.

The News

Sports

February 1, 2013

3B

Basketball

Transfer hopes to help Racers in fall season

• Diagnosis and treatment of eye disease • Budget & designer eyewear • Most insurance accepted • All types of contacts

Murray State Employees We accept your insurance for your eye exam.

Women’s Basketball

==

== ==

er p e e k o o Sales/ B 999 9 999 9

Kylie Townsend/The News

999

Junior Brandon Eggenschwiler from Lexington, Ky., looks for a line drive during a recent practice.

=

If interested contact = = =

benish1888@gmail.com

;

;; ;

Present your Racercard for a 10 percent discount on your first visit.

Mariah Robinson @Mariah_Nichelle I wake up and hour and a half before the alarm... but nevertheless, I'm awake and for that I am thankful!

Paymentative t Represen

= = =

Larisa Bierds, DVM 2477 State Route 94 E Murray 270-753-4830

Director of Marketing and Promotions

g n i k e Se

DR. KEVIN M. ADAMS • OPTOMETRIST

a He

throughout the spring and summer.

With those few weeks of practice already under his belt, Sapp said he has enjoyed the team’s dynamic and style.

“I love the competitive nature of this team,” Sapp said. “Here, if somebody is doing something wrong, people are getting uptight with each other or really getting into it, like arguing and stuff. You can see that they really get into it when somebody is messing up with a certain assignment.”

As Sapp continues to transition into the Murray State system, he could provide a mid-season spark next year in a back court likely to feature suspended sophomore Zay Jackson and freshman Jeffery Moss.

Morris White @morrisewhite3 Watching the women of #Racer athletics play IM bball vs these college kids. Probably the most a thletic dept around.

Baseball

www.murrayeyecare.com

lness l e a m i l W n A l th and

Photo courtesy of Sefton Ipock/ Independent Mail

Transfer T.J. Sapps averaged 15.1 minutes and 3.6 points during the Clemson Tigers’ first seven games.

9

308 S. 12th St., Murray 270-759-2500

Assistant Football Coach

999

Eyecare Specialties

Keith Hatcher @Khatcher15 Just watched Coach Bostick complete the "blazin challenge" at Wild Wings with ease! The guy is a machine! #hotwings

;;

For more information, visit our website at www.kentucky4h.org/camp and apply online at UK Jobs at www.uky.edu/hr/working.

Interviews will be scheduled for March 1st.

Soccer

;

Deadline for application is March 4th.

Latesha Stevenson @latesha001 SUNSHINE!! It's only January (almost February) and we're already seeing beautiful signs of spring!

;; ;

Internships are available.

Baseball

9

Positions are available as Camp Manager; HCP (Health Care Provider/EMT); lifeguards; & instructors for swimming, canoeing, nature, recreation, rifle, archery, & high & low ropes.

Tim Vonder Haar @VonderHawk If I didn't have the instincts and reaction of a mongoose who knows how many accidents I would have been in.

People need to learn to drive.

9

A SUMMER JOB AT KENTUCKY 4-H CAMPS:

5 new Tweets

99 9

Sophomore guard T.J. Sapp has only been in Murray for about three weeks, but he is already excited to be a Racer.

“I can honestly say it feels great to be a part of Murray State,” Sapp said. “It’s a great environment. The people embrace the basketball program and it feels great to be a part of a school that’s a basketball school.”

Sapp decided to transfer from Clemson in South Carolina last semester after averaging 15.1 minutes and 3.6 points through the Tigers’ first seven games.

He was recruited out of high school by Head Coach Steve Prohm and assistant coach James Kane, giving him some familiarity with Murray State as he began looking for his new home in December. Sapp also considered the University of Wyoming, but made the decision to become a Racer.

Coming from a school normally known for its perennial top 25 football team, Sapp is excited to play for a school where basketball is the main focus.

“Where I’m coming from, it was more known as a football school,” Sapp said, “but the basketball team still got some love and was still embraced by some people. It feels good here to feel like you’re really important to the whole city and to the whole school.”

Sapp, who arrived just in time to enroll in spring classes, has already adjusted to life in Murray.

“I feel like I’m adjusting quite well,” Sapp said. “The first week was rough, you know, trying to learn campus and everything, but it’s not too big, I feel like so far I’m pretty comfortable.

It’s a quiet town and I’m not looking to do much. I’m just looking to play ball and do school.”

The Fort Lauderdale, Fla., native struggled

through his first year and a half at Clemson, shooting just 31 percent from the field in 37 games. Sapp did show signs of promise, however, posting several productive performances against top-notch teams.

He scored a career-high 13 points against the University of Iowa in November of 2011, playing 22 minutes and sinking three deep balls.

Sapp also tied his career-high, against 18th ranked ACC rival University of Virginia in January of last year.

Sapp wowed college coaches in high school, averaging 21.6 points his senior year and leading his Northeast High School team to the No. 2 ranking in Florida. Ranked as the No. 7 prospect in the state, Sapp drew interest from the University of Nebraska, Old Dominion, the University of Georgia and Murray State before finally choosing Clemson.

According to NCAA transfer rules, Sapp must now sit out for two consecutive semesters, meaning he will not be eligible to play until the day after finals end in December.

“I’ve got a whole year to sit out and perfect my game and get better for next year to help out this team,” Sapp said. “I just want to focus on trying to come in and bring big-time play making skills and big-time help for this team for next year. I look at it like that. I have other things to look forward to now.”

While Sapp won’t be on the floor during games, he still believes he can play a role in improving this year’s team by pushing his teammates in practice.

“I feel like the practice I’m able to do right now with them will still be able to help them as the year goes on. And as I further grasp how they do everything and learn the plays more,” Sapp said. “I’ll be able to help the team even more as the season goes on.”

Sapp has been practicing with the team since the beginning of the semester and will continue working out with teammates and coaches

9

jferris2@murraystate.edu

99 9

Jonathan Ferris || Staff writer

#Racertweets

Check us out at... thenews.org

Blog hits it out of park Jaci Kohn || Sports Editor jkohn@murraystate.edu

For as long as he can remember Brandon Eggenschwiler has been playing baseball. The junior from Lexington, Ky., said baseball has been a part of his life for a long time, starting with little league and T-ball and moving up to Summer ball and Fall ball. “(Murray State) just gave me a great opportunity to fulfill my dream of playing Division I baseball,” he said. “When I came here I fell in love with the campus and all the coaching staff.”

Last season, Eggenschwiler saw action in 38 games, starting in 28, and hitting .370 with four doubles, one triple, two home runs and 32 RBIs. He made 22 starts as the designated hitter and was named to the 2012 All-OVC Designated Hitter Second Team.

Looking toward this season, the junior said he is excited to see what all the new guys are bringing to the table. The team has brought in new players as transfers from junior college and as freshmen.

“I think (the new players) are going to step up and help us out a lot this year,” Eggenschwiler said. “It is all going to matter when we actually see them on the field (in a game). We did lose two of our best hitters in Jake Rhodes and Travis Isaak this year, but like I said, with some of the news guys coming in this year, I am really excited to see what they can do.”

This year Eggenschwiler will be playing in the outfield more.

To prepare, he worked on building up his

strength and his throwing arm. In addition to his passion for baseball is his hobby of blogging.

He will be writing for goracers.com.

He started writing the posts a couple of weeks after school started, and he has covered events such as Homecoming, alumni weekend, the start of practice and time in the weight room, team pool tournaments and everyday events that take place for the baseball team.

“I thought it would be a fun idea to do, to be able show people around Murray and show them what actually goes on in Murray State baseball,” he said. “Readers will be able to know what happened game wise and behind the scenes stuff. That is the main idea behind the blogs, to show people what goes on behind the scenes.”

One thing that he would have liked to have documented was the game against the University of Kentucky last year.

The Breds’ won the game 7-3, and that game was one of Eggenschwiler’s favorite memories at Murray State.

“The whole stand was filled in Paducah,” he said. “The majority were Murray fans and then UK brought their fans. That was just the most fun environment I have ever played in.”

Currently Eggenschwiler is a business administration major. After graduation he is hoping to get a job in the sales or marketing department for a major league sports team.

Eggenschwiler and the rest of the team will continue practicing until their first game of the season Jan. 15 at 6 p.m. against Central Arkansas.

The News

Sports

4B

February 1, 2013

Intramurals

4:30 Crew out scores Caucasion Sensation Megan Kavy || Contributing writer mkavy@murraystate.edu

With the intramural basketball season underway, the Caucasian Sensation took on the undefeated 4:30 Crew Tuesday night.

The game began at 10 p.m., and the 4:30 Crew started off strong. Their defense repeatedly shut down Caucasian Sensation and after 15 minutes of play, the 4:30 Crew was up 28-12.

The 4:30 Crew scored on each of several missed attempts by the Caucasion Sensation. After calling a timeout with 1:25 left in the first half, Caucasion Sensation continued to miss shots, while the 4:30 Crew increased the lead.

By the end of the first half, the 4:30 Crew was in the lead with a score of 40-12. They dominated the floor, moved the ball effortlessly and scored often, leaving Caucasian Sensation without much of a chance.

Picasso Simmons, a graduate student and member of the 4:30 Crew, said the strong point of the game was their defense. He said because they defended so well, the Caucasian Sensation had no control over the half.

“The other team couldn’t hit their three’s, and we basically shut them down,” Simmons said.

Throughout the half, the 4:30 Crew displayed their efficient defense by only allowing Caucasian Sensation to score a total of six baskets. Caucasian Sensation was unable to consistently regain control of the ball.

At the start of the second half, the 4:30 Crew had

a breakaway but missed the shot down low. Caucasian Sensation got the ball but missed two 3-point shots in succession.

They racked up the offense but still struggled to score, which remained the same for the first minute and a half of play.

With 18:30 left to play, the 4:30 Crew turned the ball over and gave Caucasian Sensation a breakaway.

They ended up scoring three points to make the score 40-15. However, the 4:30 Crew turned around with a breakaway of their own and scored, adding to their lead by two points.

Seconds later, due to a mercy rule, the 4:30 Crew scored a 3-point shot to end the game. Because of the difference in scores, the game ended with 17:10 left in the second half.

The final score was 45-15 and was a great win for the 4:30 Crew.

Simmons, who was a part of the Racer basketball team for four years, was the team’s top scorer and rebounder of the game.

His goal for the season is to go undefeated again and for the 4:30 Crew to win the championship.

Simmons said, a championship is a definite possibility due to the team’s skills and ability to work well together in all situations.

“The team to me is unselfish,” she said. “It doesn’t matter if I score five points or 10.”

This win puts the 4:30 Crew at 2-0 so far this season.

Their next game is Monday against Rack City in the North Gym at 9 p.m.

Local

Saturday:

Men’s Basketball

Austin Peay vs.

Murray State 12 p.m.

CFSB Center ESPNU

Saturday:

Women’s Basketball

Austin Peay vs.

Murray State 2:15 p.m.

CFSB Center

Intramural Basketball Schedule Men’s

Women’s

Monday, Feb. 4

Monday, Feb. 4

7 p.m. Alpha Tau Omega vs. Sigma Chi 7 p.m. ADPi vs. Omega Mu 8 p.m. AOII vs. AGD 7 p.m. Sweet 16 vs. Crime Mob 9 p.m. MSU Volleyball vs. Sigma Alpha 8 p.m. Alpha Gamma Rho vs. PIKES 10 p.m. Tri-Sigma vs. ASA A 8 p.m. Alpha Sig B vs. Hart Honey Badgers Women’s 9 p.m. Sigma Phi Epsilon vs. Alpha Monday, Feb. 4 Sigma Phi 9 p.m. Rack City vs. 4:30 Crew 7 p.m. Lizo Ladies A vs. Rhinos 10 p.m. Sigma Pi vs. Lambda Chi Alpha 8 p.m. Monstars vs. Lizo B 10 p.m. TriLambda vs. United For 8 p.m. Lady Terrapins vs. Hart Ravens Christ 9 p.m. Springer-Franklin B vs. Racer Mix 9 p.m. Hester Ladies vs. Lee Clark

National Saturday:

NHL Chicago Blackhawks vs.

Calgary Flames 10 p.m.

Sunday:

NFL Super Bowl

Baltimore Ravens vs.

San Francisco 49ers

5:30 p.m. CBS

February 1, 2013

THE

5B

The News

Features

“Entertainment news sure to spice up your lunch conversation”

Features Editor: Anna Taylor Assistant Features Editor: Savannah Sawyer Phone: 809-5871 Twitter: MSUNewsFeatures

WATER COOLER Information and photos from The Associated Press Compiled by Savannah Sawyer

TIMBERLAKE TO PERFORM AT GRAMMY’S

wise cracks KE$HA GETS OWN MTV REALITY SHOW Pop Singer Ke$ha will soon have her own reality show on MTV. The show will be called “Ke$ha: My Crazy Beautiful Life” and will highlight her life over the past two years.

The show is set to air in April.

‘HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER’ WILL COME TO AN END CBS announced Wednesday “How I Met Your Mother” will end after its ninth season airs next fall.

The question is, will the mother (who would be the wife of Ted, played by Josh Radnor) be revealed?

CBS Entertainment President Nina Tassler promised viewers the mother would show up as the show finishes its stint.

“How I Met your Mother” also stars Neil Patrick Harris, Cobie Smulders, Jason Segel and Alyson Hannigan.

THE STROKES SET RELEASE DATE FOR NEXT ALBUM The Strokes announced Wednesday the release date for their fifth studio album.

The album, titled “Comedown Machine,” is set to be released March 26.

This will be their follow-up album to 2011’s LP, “Angles.”

The band has already released the first track off the album, “One Way Trigger.”

The first single on the album will be “All The Time.”

Quoteable “After all, I was in over 100 digital shorts, as well as three live sketches.”

–Andy Samberg from Saturday’s episode of “Saturday Night Live” on NBC

Evan Watson/The News

It was announced Wednesday by the Recording Academy that Justin Timberlake will perform at the Grammy Awards, airing Feb. 10 in Los Angeles, Calif.

The singer recently returned to the music scene by releasing his latest single, “Suit & Tie,” featuring Jay-Z.

Animal memes showcase humor, sarcasm Hunter Harrell || Staff writer hharrell@murraystate.edu

In the decade of the Internet, information is abundant and so are pictures of animals.

Some of these animal pictures have grown so popular they have gained a cult following. The pictures have generated enough interest that they have turned into memes.

Memes are words, phrases, expressions or iconic images that are popularized online through sharing on social media forums or online games.

They come in a variety of personalities, including animals, movies characters and regular people turned Internet famous.

Animal memes have caught the attention of millions on the Internet.

They own a category all their own on websites, where memes are generated and shared. The question is, why are

people both fascinated and amused by these pictures of animals? What drives the impulse to share these pictures with friends?

Many say animals are cute, therefore they like the pictures. Pictures of cats, dogs, bears and the occasional raccoon are plastered all over the Internet, each with a more creative caption than the last.

“Animals are cute, and people enjoy personifying animals already,” said Ashley Angelo, senior from Hazel, Ky. “So when you have a picture of an animal doing something hilarious, it’s funny to put a person’s response to the situation.”

Others, however, say the cute argument is too simple. Some even believe the popularity of animal memes is attributed to the animal being anything but cute.

One animal in particular has caught the attention of Amanda Baker, junior

from Cadiz, Ky. “I love pugs because they are not known for being typically cute,” Baker said. “I think the Internet set that in motion because I don’t own a pug or know anyone who owns a pug.”

Between the expressions and captions on the animal memes, a common trend is that the critters are often experiencing embarrassing situations.

Meme popularity is seen as an expression of sharing moods without updating a status on social networks.

This is yet another reason the animals of the Internet have captured viewers, social network sites and hearts.

“They express things you feel or want to say in a certain situation, but can’t, either due to lack of originality or confidence,” Angelo said.

Murray State students also take ad-

vantage of animal memes as a way of escaping. Baker said she often looks at sites such as Reddit, Ninegag and Imgur for a good laugh.

“If I’m having a bad day or need a break from studying, I log on to social media sites and see what memes have been shared,” Baker said. “They are just funny.”

Another reason sharing animal memes has been popularized is that the funny situations and human emotions the animals portray are fun for everyone.

“I just love how light-hearted and clean the humor is,” Angelo said. “Animal humor can usually be shared with anyone, so more people are going to share it with everyone around them.”

So, whether the reason is pro-cuteness or lack thereof, clean humor or relatable situations, people love animal memes.

University prepares for Spike Lee lecture Savannah Sawyer || Assistant Features Editor ssawyer@murraystate.edu

Murray State has been showcasing the Presidential Lecture Series dating back to 1983. Last year, the University was able to get James Carville and Mary Matalin to speak to the students and residents of Murray about their view on politics.

In past Presidential Lecture Series, Murray State has hosted guest speakers such as Ben Stein, Desmond Tutu, Richard Norton Smith, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Benazir Bhutto, Lech Walesa and F.W. DeKlerk.

This year, the reason behind the chosen speaker is not so clear. The University chose Spike Lee to speak to Murray State.

Many may be asking, who is Spike Lee, and how does he play an important roll in today’s politics?

According to his online biography, in 1986, director Lee created his first film, “She’s Gotta Have It.” The film was one of the most successful films of that year. The film only cost $175,000 to make, but grossed more than $7 million at the box office.

Lee’s films usually tend to carry a strong message about race, religion and politics. Some of these films include “Malcolm X,” “Summer of Sam,” “She Hate Me” and “4 Little Girls.”

The Presidential Lecture Series is titled “An Evening with Spike Lee: America Through My Lens.” Lee will discuss how he sees the present and future of America by speaking about everything from political agendas to stereotypes in Hollywood.

In preparation for the event, the University is currently hosting a Spike Lee Film Festival, sponsored by the Murray State President’s Commission on Diversity and Inclusion.

“Basically, this film festival is designed to do two things,” said Lee S.G. Carthell, member of the commission and the director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs. “The first is to kind of educate or re-educate folks on who Spike Lee is. Some of the younger generation may know him as an icon, but

not really his body of work, as far as his films.”

Lee has been a professor at New York University for 15 years in the film studies department, and he has produced a number of books. There are a lot of things he has done in addition to some of the films that people know him for.

“The second thing is to encourage folks to go to the lecture,” Carthell said. “The Presidential Lecture is an important event every year, and they’ve been very good about bringing in some really great speakers. This is another example of the versatility and diversity of that lecture series.”

The first film, “Inside Man,” was shown on Jan. 28 in the Curris Center Theater. It is currently his most successful film to date. “Get On The Bus” was shown Wednesday in the Barkley Room at the Curris Center. “Do the Right Thing” will play at 10:30 p.m. today in the Curris Center Theater. Lastly, “School Days” will be shown at 11:30 p.m. Saturday in the Curris Center Theater.

The lecture will be at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4, in Lovett Auditorium. The event is free and open to all Murray State students, along with faculty and the public.

Career

Internships provide valuable professional experience

Kelsey Randolph || Staff writer krandolph3@murraystate.edu

Internships are offered for most majors at nearly any place someone desires to work. With the current unemployment rate at a low, students are finding it harder to get a job after college. One way to have more experience before applying for those jobs is to intern.

Ray Karraker, Cooperative Education and Internship Coordinator at Career Services helps students find internships each semester. He believes it is an important opportunity.

“There are three reasons why a student should intern,” Karraker said.

“First, (you) get work experience and build your resume. Second, (you become) exposed to the real world because oftentimes, you may intern and

find you do not like the field of study you chose. Finally, a third reason is that studies from the National Association of Colleges and Educators show that more students receive a job after graduating if they intern, versus no internship.”

In order to qualify for school credit from an internship, the University requires students to have at least a 2.0 GPA and be at least in their second semester. For transfer students, they need to have at least six credit hours in attendance on campus and have a 2.0 GPA to apply for internships.

All students must also pass the requirements for the company giving the internship. While interning, a student must also finish at least 300 working hours in order to gain University credits for graduation. It is not necessary that a student interns in a

specific field of study. The point of interning is to gain experience, Karraker said.

“I encourage people to look into internships because they are so valuable,” Karraker said. “Start early in your career to help build your resume and gain experience.”

According to the NACE, roughly 60 percent of students who participated in a paid internship receive job offers, while an individual with no internship is around 30 percent.

“A student must be determined,” Karraker said. “Everyone has the ability to intern. Everyone should want the drive to improve their chances of getting a job post-graduation.”

There are plenty of opportunities through Murray State to intern in either a specific area of study or as a general internship.

Features

6B

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’?

TODAY • 6 - 10 a.m. Go Red: Heart Disease Awareness Free Screening Event, Murray Calloway County Hospital • 12 p.m. “Hook and Ladder: Wit and Specificity to the Rescue in College Writing,” Curris Center Mississippi Room • 3 p.m. “What’s My Thesis?: The Last Question to Ask of Your Next College Essay,” Faculty Hall Room 208 • 7:30 p.m. Cinema International presents “Miss Bala,” Curris Center Theater

T U E S D A Y

The News

• 12 p.m. First United Methodist Church Sew-A-Thon, First United Methodist Church in Murray • 6 p.m. Alpha Kappa Psi Volleyball rush event, Wellness Center • 11:59 p.m. Deadline for entering WKMS’ “Love Poems” contest

S A T U R D A Y

• 12 p.m. Racer Basketball vs.

Austin Peay, CFSB Center • 2:15 p.m. Lady Racer Basketball vs. Austin Peay, CFSB Center • 7:30 p.m. Cinema International presents “Miss Bala,” Curris Center Theater

February 1, 2013

c omme rc ia ls !

If you would like an event to appear here or on thenews.org, email us at features@thenews.org. Please submit events by noon Wednesday for consideration.

• 5:30 p.m. NFL Super Bowl XLVII: Ravens vs. 49ers, CBS

M O N D A Y

5 things...

to expect on TV on Super Bowl Sunday • 12 p.m. First United Methodist Church Sew-A-Thon, First United Methodist Church in Murray • 6 p.m. Alpha Kappa Psi “Meet the Brothers” rush event, Curris Center Dance Lounge • 7:30 p.m. “An Evening with Spike Lee: America Through My Lens,” Lovett Auditorium

1

Coca-Cola. Another steady contender for funniest Super Bowl commercial, Coca-Cola promises to be a hit with their classic style.

SUNDAY

• 12 p.m. First United Methodist Church Sew-A-Thon, First United Methodist Church in Murray • 8:30 - 9:20 a.m. Academic Advisor Team Building: Support Services and Multicultural Affairs, Waterfield Library Room 210 • 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. MSU Reading Experience Lecture: "Humanly Possible: Exploring the Human Condition through the Humanities,” Faculty Hall Room 208 • 6 p.m. Alpha Kappa Psi “Cocoa with AKPsi” rush event, Curris Center Dance Lounge

WEDNESDAY

3 • 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free health screenings, Center for Health and Wellness in Murray • 12:30 - 1:20 p.m. Academic Advisor Team Building: Support Services and Multicultural Affairs, Waterfield Library Room 210 • 6 p.m. Alpha Kappa Psi Info Night and Speed Dating, Business Building Breezeway • 7 - 8 p.m. FUNdamentals of Belly Dancing, Old Fine Arts Dance Studio

T H U R S D A Y

Hunter Harrell || Staff writer hharrell@murraystate.edu

The local radio station WKMS is hosting a poetry contest in honor of Valentine’s Day. A prize will be delivered to the winners or their sweethearts on Feb. 14.

WKMS is currently taking poem entries from listeners about why they love the radio station.

The top 10 poems will be read on-air during the “Sounds Good” segment on Valentine’s Day. The program is hosted by WKMS Program Director Tracy Ross and airs between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on weekdays.

In addition to acknowledgement on the live show, the winners will receive a box of chocolates from The Chocolate Factory, located in downtown Paducah, Ky. Winners may choose to have the chocolates delivered to their valentine or to themselves.

Poems can be any length, and in any form, but must express a love for public radio.

Kate Lochte, WKMS station manager, believes the contests held allow the station to say thanks to the listeners.

“Last fall, we did cookie baking and wreathmaking contests,” Lochte said. “These allow us to give gifts to listeners, thanks to contest underwriters. We’re most looking forward to having fun with it, hearing from listeners who enjoy the station.”

To submit an entry, email the poem to msu.wkms@murraystate.edu with “Love Poem” in the subject line. Entries must also include poem title, name, address, phone number, the address the chocolates should be delivered to and a brief message included with the chocolates.

All entries must be submitted by 11:59 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 5.

d Tweets e r u Feat of the week A compilation of Tweets that made us laugh, cry or scratch our heads.

2

Doritos. Although they have been in the Super Bowl commercial bracket for many years, Doritos has just recently begun to take a front seat in the halftime show time slot.

Volkswagen. It is another one to look out for this year to see if they continue to build on their comedy success.

M&Ms. With their “Sexy and I Know It” routine last year, M&Ms have recovered from a few unremarkable years of commercials.

4

SpikMeondLaey e

5

Photo courtesy of insidemovies.ew.com

WKMS hosts poem contest

Budweiser. Always a crowd favorite, Budweiser has been dropping millions on Super Bowl commercials for years.

Faces&Places

Compiled by Shannon MacAllister

Matt B’s serves up slice of life Faces & Places is a weekly series that profiles the people and places of Murray. Every person and every place has a story. Let us tell it.

Anna Taylor || Features Editor ataylor2@murraystate.edu

In 1997, Matt Bartholomy had two business strategies in mind: be close to Murray State’s campus and sell pizza by the slice. Thus, Matt B’s Main Street Pizza was born.

Having been a pizza man for 13 years prior to Matt B’s, Bartholomy gives his business credit to both Mr. Gatti’s and a monthly trade journal called Pizza Today.

“I worked for the Mr. Gatti’s Corporation for 13 years, and I had done all I could do as a manager for Mr. Gatti’s,” he said. “I managed three different Mr. Gatti’s in three different cities and I always wanted to get back to Murray. At the time, Murray had a lot of great pizzerias, but I knew the one thing that it didn’t have was pizza by the slice.”

When Bartholomy opened the pizzeria after leaving work at Gatti’s, he was surprised to receive a variety of customers.

“To my delight, our clientele is a mix of everyone from workers to college students to faculty to maintenance workers and locals,” he said. “For 15 years, the concept has worked without us really depending on one group of people.”

The restaurant is considered a favorite in town, as it has been voted “Best Pizza” by local newspapers for years.

Matt B’s offers specialty pizzas, regular pizzas, calzones, salads, breads and spaghetti.

Customers can eat in, take out or call in for delivery.

For each weekday, there are different pizza lunch specials.

“Every day we make a specialty pizza except

Anna Taylor/The News

Matt B’s Main Street Pizza offers pizza by the slice or pie as well as calzones, salads, breads and more. for Saturdays,” Bartholomy said. “It will be something unusual that you don’t see every day. It could be a baked potato pizza, a chicken bacon ranch pizza or even a double-stuffed Chicago-style pizza.”

The restaurant orders its fresh ingredients from Farm Boy Foods in Evansville, Ind., and Sysco Nashville in Nashville, Tenn. Bartholomy claims that these are the best places to get pizza ingredients.

“We want to try to make the best pizza that we possibly can,” he said. “And to do that, you need your own mixer to make your own dough, you need to make your dough fresh every day, you need to try to buy the top of the line cheese and you need to buy great products and cut your products yourself. Don’t use any frozen stuff.”

The restaurant employs many high school and college students. An average day for a Matt B’s employee looks something like this: come

in around 8 a.m., start making dough, salads and pizzas for the display case, chop vegetables and get ready to open. After 2 p.m., a new shift comes in to work for the rest of the evening.

“We’re fortunate not to be a chain and by that we make our own rules,” Bartholomy said.

“I think that’s one of the advantages to working here as a college kid.”

One thing that separates Matt B’s from other pizza restaurants is the fact that they freehand their dough based on their own estimates instead of using premeasured dough.

“When you eat at Matt B’s pizza, it will never be the exact same pizza every time because we freehand,” he said. “I just tell the kids ‘hey, make it like you’re going to make it for you.’”

Matt B’s is open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

The pizzeria is located at 1411 Main St. in Murray.

Paige Paschall @PLINKoPaiger Everyone's like "storms help me sleep" .. NO! I don't like knowing I very well may wake up inside a tornado.

11:25 p.m. Jan. 29

Sharon Jacobs @SharonJacobs2 I don't have a TV in the hallway so I'm going to stay right here on my couch #lazy #murraytornado 11:47 p.m. Jan. 29

Paige Hoffmeister @PaigeHoff How appropriate for Little Big Town to come to Murray after last night's "Tornado" #clever 12:21 p.m. Jan. 30

Jordi Tennison @j_huSTLe44 It's too hot and late for this shit #murraytornado 11:42 p.m. Jan. 29

Nick Dolan @ndolan21 Who has ever heard of a tornado in the middle of winter, this is some Day After Tomorrow weather #murraytornado 11:47 p.m. Jan. 29

Kaitlyn Brooks @kaitlynbrooks16 Little Big Towns Tornado Tour has arrived in Murray. That's why it's so windy. #MakesSense 3:00 p.m. Jan. 30

This week’s topic: Murray’s “Tornado”

Dine-In, Drive-Thru, and Carry Out Available

We Also Cater!

10% Discount to Faculty and Students with ID!

806 Chestnut Street • Murray, KY 42071 • 270-767-0054

+(< <28 THE MURRAY STATE NEWS IS HIRING!

Interested in Photography? What about Sports?

The News needs you. We are currently seeking applicants for the positions of Photo Editor & Assistant Sports Editor. Come join our team.

Apply at Wilson Hall or online at TheNews.org

The News

Features

February 1, 2013

7B Liner Notes

Cinema International takes students on world tour Staff writer smacallister@murraystate.edu

Through independent movies such as “Miss Bala” and “Cave of Forgotten Dreams,” the long upstanding Cinema International tradition on Murray State’s campus has brought global culture to students’ doorsteps.

The program, brought to campus in the fall of 1986, was begun by a small number of staff members pursuing a wider recognition of film off the main stream. They wanted to allow students the opportunity to experience more of the international film culture that is often overlooked.

“We started modestly,” said Carl Waag, professor of Humanities and Fine Arts. “We began showing only one film in a semester using wretched equipment in the Curris center. We showed a film called ‘Metropolis’ that semester, and that was all we did.”

Though it started small, the tradition grew exponentially in a short number of years. Now, Cinema International shows eight movies per semester.

“There are people who would not miss a single showing,” Waag said. “It’s a place to see movies

you won’t see in Hollywood, and you may not see anywhere else either.”

Cinema International also boasts its involvement with various departments and colleges on campus and attempts to correlate its content with upcoming events on campus such as the Shakespeare festival.

“We really try to line the movies up with things that are happening on campus,” Waag said. “We also try to work with the foreign language departments as much as possible with the new culture credits a large number of classes are requiring.”

In addition to its academic virtue, Cinema International also positively impacts the Murray community, as it helps Murray rise through the polls in retirement community rankings.

“Things like Cinema International make Murray go higher up in the top places to retire, too,” Waag said. “People in the community really enjoy coming out and getting involved in things like Cinema International because they are open to everyone and admission is free.”

Showings are held almost every Thursday, Friday and Saturday in the Curris Center Theater.

Photo courtesy of impawards.com

2013 Cinema International Schedule All films will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings in the Curris Center Theater.

Jan. 31- Feb. 2 “Miss Bala”

March 7 - 9

“Once Upon a Time in Anatolia”

Feb. 7 - 9

“Cave of Forgotten Dreams”

Feb. 14 - 16

“Children of Paradise”

March 14 - 16

No Film

Feb. 21 - 23

“A Dangerous Method”

March 21 - 23

No Film

Feb. 28 - March 2 “Coriolanus”

March 28 - 30 “Chico and Rita”

DIY

Crafters looks to chevron pattern for creativity Shannon MacAllister || Staff writer smacallister@murraystate.edu

When creative impulses strike, it seems ideas are bound to be stopped by a lack of funds, but Murray State students have learned to be resourceful and have embraced the do-it-yourself trend. Within the DIY fad, many have found decorations, furniture, clothes and patterns to love, spotlighting the newfound objects as the craze of the moment.

One such newcomer is the large, chunky zigzag pattern, or chevron, that is all over every DIY blog, fashion accessory, Pinterest profile and household decoration. Characterized by thick, even zigzag stripes in alternating colors, the pattern has shown itself to be versatile, easy to make and attractive, quickly bringing itself to the forefront of fashion and decor.

Chevron has recently made appearances on Murray State’s campus.

“Chevron is the modern stripe, and the best thing to happen to fashion design,” said Natalie Guerreiro, sophomore from Souderton, Pa. “I like to chevron everything. I love it.”

One such DIY chevron decor example is the idea of creating one’s own inexpensive DIY chevron area rug. Made using simple, easily obtainable supplies, the project allows students to custom create a chevron rug in whatever colors or size they want.

The project also boasts a cost of less than $50 for a 5’x7’ customized rug.

Out This Week

See It

Friday, Feb. 1

Cashing in on the zombie craze spawned from the likes of “Zombieland” and “The Walking Dead,” “Warm Bodies” takes the zombie genre in a new direction: the zombie romance flick. Based on a novel, which was in turn based on a short story posted online, “Warm Bodies” stars John Malkovitch. The film is a re-imagining of “Romeo and Juliet” in a zombie setting.

PUZZLES Want to sponsor Sudoku Puzzles?

Call our Advertising Department at 809-4478 to find out how. connect. attract. grow.

❖ IKEA ERSLEV flat woven rug, white ❖ standard painter’s tape ❖ standard paint wall brush ❖ Latex paint in one or two colors Photo courtesy of littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com

How to make it

1. Lay the rug down, spreading out all edges and removing any creases without allowing the fabric to curl.

2. Outline where the chevron stripes will be using painter’s tape.

3. Begin painting within the first outlined chevron and start to work the paint color into the grooves of the carpet. Covering each fiber with paint while avoiding extra paint buildup, as it won’t be absorbed by the rug, and will cause the rug to flake and bleed color.

4. Skipping the next chevron, as it will remain white, continue to work the color into every other section until the end of the rug has been reached.

5. Do not remove the painter’s tape. It is very important to allow the rug to dry with the tape still on the rug to ensure no paint will bleed color where it should not. Allow the rug to dry completely for 1-3 days, removing the painter’s tape only when the rug is 100 percent dry.

Rent It

Tuesday, Feb. 5

Directed and co-produced by Robert Zemeckis and starring Denzel Washington, “Flight” is a drama fil m focusing on an airline pilot and his problems stemming from substance abuse. Co-starring in this high-flying flick are John Goodman and Don Cheadle, and Kelly Reilly. “Flight” has been nominated for Best Original Screenplay and Best Actor at the upcoming Academy Awards.

Hear It

Tuesday, Feb. 5

Singer-songwriter Josh Groban's newest album, “Al l That Echoes,” features the operatic pop and classical sounds Groban's fans know him best for. Featuring cover songs of Stevie Wonder and Glen Hansard, the album's first track, "Brave," was released as a single on Dec. 18. Those who purchase the special edition of the album will find three extra tracks on it, exclusive to that edition.

Read It

Tuesday, Feb. 5

Best selling author Lisa Gardner moved from food service to writing afte r catching her hair on fire one too many times, and her latest novel is a testament to that.

“Touch & Go” is a crime thriller that reaches just below the surface of what looks like the perfect family. Fans of Gardner's previous work should find her new novel up to par in yet another heart-stopping mystery.

Play It

Tuesday, Feb. 5

The third entry in the ongoing Dead Space saga, Dead Space 3, is a third-person survival-horror video game set on the planet of Tau Volantis, a frozen wasteland. The game follows lead characters Isaac Clarke and John Carver as they try to end the threat of the Necromorphs. Dead Space 3 is rated M for blood and gore, intense violence and strong language.

SOLUTIONS AT THENEWS.ORG

SUDOKU

What you need

All true music fans experience a particular moment.

It generally happens at different times in life for different people.

Anna Luckily for me, Taylor it happened Features Editor pretty early.

It happened when I was a freshman in high school at a typical Thursday afternoon marching band rehearsal. It was right at dusk and the band was practicing our second song, which was a ballad. I was standing on the sidelines of our practice field (which was used as a student parking lot during regular school hours) because battery percussion was not required for this particular song. I usually enjoyed this part of rehearsal because that meant I could rest.

This time was different.

I listened to my peers and friends as they played the most elegant song I had ever heard. I had never really taken the time to notice how emotional the song was.

Something about it held my attention from beginning to end. It was absolutely beautiful.

Our director was so creative, and I always admired him for that.

He had the members of the band that were on the sidelines for this song twirl Dollar Tree whirly tubes that made whistle sounds as the first song faded and the ballad started. We each chose a different speed to twirl them at for different pitches. Then, the piano came in, and eventually the brass.

There were so many soft moments in the song that it made the crescendos and the big impacts that much sweeter.

We were fortunate enough to have a balanced sound in our band – at least for this song – so much that if we had one more person, they would make a big difference. Perfection, I thought.

It was that day in 2005 that I fell in love with music.

I remember downloading this song as soon as I got home that day. Of course, it wasn't the same because it was a recording of a string orchestra instead of a marching band with whirly tubes.

Still, it was such a great song.

Because I’m me and I listen to songs on repeat when I find that I like them, I kept hitting the replay button on my iPod. This might be weird considering it was an instrumental film score, but I just wanted to hear it and feel what I felt standing on that asphalt.

I credit that moment for my ability to listen to almost any song and find something in it that I really like. It’s an appreciation I give credit to Thomas Newman for writing “The Farm.” ataylor2@murraystate.edu

Photos courtesy of Amazon.com

Shannon MacAllister ||

My moment

8B

The News February 1, 2013