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The Murray State News April 11, 2014

Vol. 88, No. 28

TheNews.org

Johnson ends threeyear SGA presidency

LIVING BIG

Meghann Anderson || News Editor manderson22@murraystate.edu

Jeremiah Johnson’s run as Murray State’s Student Government Association president has come to an end after three years.

Johnson, who first came to Murray State in the fall of 2008, got involved with campus quickly by joining a fraternity, SGA and Murray State’s collegiate FFA chapter.

Winning the election for the third time has put Johnson on an exclusive list of presidents who have held a three-year term. There has only been one other to do so at Murray State – J. Eddie Allen in 1988.

Johnson said one of the things he will miss most about Murray State is the family atmosphere and the students and the way everyone interacted with each other.

While he does not have set plans for life post-graduation, he said he is pursuing a few job opportunities.

“Ultimately I want a career path where I can help foster positive growth within our youth in agriculture, whether it is through policy making or day-to-day educational opportunities,” Johnson said.

Some of Johnson’s favorite memories of college life include going to the lake with fiends over the summer, Midnight Breakfast and All-Campus Sing.

While he said he had many great times during his tenure at the University, he said he also had to deal with his fair share of adversity. Johnson Johnson went through former President Randy Dunn’s contract non-renewal, the proposal of a student-funded library that failed and many student deaths.

“I’ve had to deal with the state requiring the University the make budget cuts,” Johnson said. “That’s been hard. I’ve been trying to help make cuts, but also make sure students are not affected as badly.”

He said some of his mentors and biggest influencers during his time as a student and SGA president have been the consistency regents, SGA adviser Jeanie Morgan, all of the faculty, staff and students in the Hutson School of Agriculture, President Tim Miller, Don Robertson, vice president of Student Affairs, Jay Morgan, vice president of Academic Affairs and interim vice president of Finance and Administrative Services Jackie Dudley.

Fumi Nakamura/The News

Hester Residential College is in the middle of renovations and is expected to house students again in the fall.

Hester renovations near completion Ben Manhanke || Assistant News Editor bmanhanke@murraystate.edu

Renovations of Hester Residential College are approximately 80 percent complete and on schedule as contractors continue to make progress working from the top of the building down.

Kim Oatman, chief Facilities Management officer, said the amount of work completed on each floor varies with the lobby being closer to 30 percent complete, but that the college will be ready to be inhabited by July 8.

The rooms and building will have updated electric, plumbing, furniture and networking fixtures.

Hester will gain additional study lounges on three of the floors, updated bathrooms and a new modern kitchen

opening to the back lobby among other improvements.

Oatman said he was happy with the work completed thus far and attributed the timeliness of the work to the consultants and contractors.

The renovation of Hester cost approximately $9.9 million and was made possible

by Gov. Steve Beshear’s signing of House Bill 7 last June.

The bill authorized bonding for projects at several Kentucky universities and granted Murray State $15.5 million for the renovation of Hester, a new sprinkler system for College Courts and other facility improvements.

Kenny Fister, college head of Hester, said he and the residents are excited to move back into Hester next semester.

He said while there may be some major

changes aesthetically to the college to which residents will have to acclimate, including the moving of the front entrance, policies and the community atmosphere will stay the same. Hester can house approximatedly 319 students.

“We are looking forward to having space back,” Fister said. “But the building was in need of a major renovation and many features both seen and unseen were showing their age. When the building was built students did not have microwaves, computers and large televisions.

“Now it is being turned into a building fit to be a modern home of Hester Residential College.”

He said the transition from living in Hester to Old Richmond Residential Col-

Hester by the numbers

$9.9 80 319

see JOHNSON, 2A

million is the approximate cost of Hester renovations percent of the renovations to Hester are complete approximate number of residents Hester can house

Fumi Nakamura/The News

The bathrooms of Hester are among the many aesthetic changes to the college.

US Highway 121 construction will lead to expansion Ben Manhanke || Assistant News Editor bmanhanke@murraystate.edu

Preparations for the widening of U.S. Highway 121 from North 12th Street to Bailey Road have begun with the relocation of utility lines to accommodate the construction of what will become a new five-lane highway.

Contractors Salmon Construction and ElectriCom LLC were issued a Notice to Proceed Marth 17 with an allotted sixmonth timeframe to complete the moving of water and gas utilities along this stretch of road on behalf of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

Peyton Mastera, project administrator for the city of Murray, said while the relocation of city-owned utilities may be completed by October, the relocation of electric and telephone lines along the stretch of road will likely take a year to a year and a half, but he’s hopeful that by this time next spring the construction con-

see HESTER, 2A

tract for the project will have been awarded.

“It’s an incredibly busy thorough fair right now having the Murray State campus at that location and with the expansion of Highway 80 and the development of roads on that side of town,” Mastera said. “Overall it’s something that’s going to support future growth coming into Murray and for any future development: residential or University related and will support the traffic on that side of town.”

He said the expansion of U.S. Highway 121 has been on the state’s highway plan for approximately 15 years.

He said as soon as the relocation of utilities is complete, construction should be able to begin immediately.

The Murray City Council unanimously agreed to accept $1,637,141 given by the KYTC for the altering of U.S. Highway 121 in January.

These funds and the Highway 121 Five Lane Project were made possible by the

passing of House Bill 267 by Kentucky’s House legislators in March 2012. The bill allocated $3.5 billion budget for major roadwork and construction plans across the state, approximately $15 million of which went to Murray-Calloway County to use for projects between 2012-14.

When completed, the road from 12th Street to Gilbert Graves Drive will be five lanes and from Gilbert Graves Drive onward, the road will be four lanes with a divided median.

The project also includes relocation of overhead lines to underground and the installation of decorative traffic signals and decorative light poles and fixtures.

Kim Oatman, chief Facilities Management officer, said the widening of the highway, including the reallocation of utilities, will affect traffic in that area.

He said road construction is difficult to complete without some type of impact on traffic and the adjoining properties near

see HIGHWAY, 2A

New Business Building suite made for ‘high finance’ Ben Manhanke Assistant News Editor bmanhanke@murraystate.edu

Construction of a new office suite in the Business Building began this week to facilitate the department of accounting’s relocation for the fall 2014 semester.

Currently, the department of accounting is located on the third floor of Business Building South, but with plans to

see BUSINESS, 2A

WHAT’S

TACO TRUCK

OUR VIEW

TENNIS TRIUMPH

SCHEDULING RESOURCES

INSIDE

Food truck arrives on campus, offers free, healthy options, 3A

More than one student should run for SGA president, 4A

Women take down Eastern Kentucky to top OVC standings, 1B

Students, professors discuss RateMyProfessors.com, 5B

News

2A

BUSINESS From Page 1 move it to the first floor, Tim Todd, dean of the Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business, said it will help create a more business-themed environment.

“We wanted to create a ‘high finance’ and ‘high profile’ for the first floor of the Business Building,” Todd said.

“With the State Farm Financial Services Center in Business Building North, we wanted to also do something in Business Building South that would reflect

HIGHWAY From Page 1 the highway.

“Motorists will have to follow the traffic control signs and markings and at times motorists may have to follow the guidance of flagmen,” he said. “Motorists may have to drive on rough surfaces and merge from one lane to

April 11, 2014

this type of theme.”

He said the new office suite will bring a feel of Wall Street, accounting firms and overall business and be a tremendous addition to the department.

Classrooms used by the department of computer science and information systems had previously been located on the first floor, but were relocated to the fifth floor prior to construction.

Renovation of the first floor will continue through the end of the semester and into the summer and is scheduled to be completed by mid-May. Todd said he is pleased with the renovations and how the project is moving forward.

another. It will be inconvenient at times, but it will be worth it in the end as the final project will bring about great improvements to traffic flow and the aesthetics of the area.”

Oatman said while Murray State been assured by KYTC that its construction contractors will be required to keep lanes of traffic passable in both directions throughout the project and that access to the University’s properties will be maintained especially in regard to the CFSB Center and Heritage Hall.

Obama comments on strike down of equal pay bill HOUSTON (AP) — Denouncing the current Congress as the least productive in modern history, President Barack Obama chided Republicans Wednesday for blocking a Senate bill aimed at narrowing the gender pay gap — an issue Democrats are counting on to give them an advantage in the fall elections.

Revving up Democratic donors at an opulent home in Houston, Obama said the legislation advocated by Democrats seems like common sense to most Americans, creating a pathway to meaningfully enforce the concept of equal pay for equal work. He sought to portray Wednesday's failed Senate vote as part of a broader Republican strategy to obstruct any progress before voters go to the polls.

“You would think that that at this point it would not be a controversial proposition, and yet the Republicans in the Senate uniformly decided to say no,” Obama said, hours after Democrats failed to secure enough votes to advance the bill.

Republicans say the bill could hinder employers from granting raises or permitting flexible hours for fear of costly

The News

lawsuits. Democrats disagree, and hope the issue will spur women to back them by wide margins in November.

In an equally forceful rebuke to Republicans, Obama accused the GOP of seeking to restrict access to voting in Texas and elsewhere. When one donor shouted out that the GOP effort was “unAmerican,” the president concurred.

“How is it that we're putting up with that?” Obama asked.

Obama's remarks at a sprawling, resort-like home belonging to a prominent Texas attorney and Obama supporter came at the midpoint of a two-day Texas swing in which Obama was adopting multiple roles.

Earlier Wednesday, he eulogized three soldiers who died last week in a shooting spree at Fort Hood, Texas, then hopped a quick flight to Houston for a pair of Democratic fundraisers.

On Thursday, the president and first lady Michelle Obama will travel to Austin, Texas, where the president will speak at a summit marking the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act.

Fumi Nakamura/The News

Jeremiah Johnson sits at his desk in the Center for Student Involvement office.

JOHNSON From Page 1 “I am also extremely thankful and respect our former SGA presidents for their continued support over the years,” he said. “I couldn't have made it where I am without the support of my fraternity Alpha Gamma Rho, and I am very thankful for my brothers.”

As SGA adviser, Morgan has worked closely with Johnson through the years.

“I'm really glad Jeanie is here,” Johnson said.

“She has been a guiding light when things get rough and a rock to help support me and SGA when we need advice on tough decisions.”

HESTER From Page 1 lege required some getting used to, but prior to moving he talked to the leadership from Elizabeth Residential College, which also recently had a complete renovation and knew some of what to expect from the change.

Fister said the biggest differences between the two residential colleges were the suite-style baths, the lobby area and louder rooms and halls.

Rebecca Johns, junior from Crete, Ill., and Hester resident, said the biggest change she noticed between living in Old Richmond and Hester was a

Morgan said Jeremiah have been an outstanding supporter of students.

“The decisions he has made have always been made with the students’ welfare his first priority,” Morgan said. “Jeremiah has been accessible to students at all times. The students of Murray State have greatly benefited from Jeremiah's dedication and hard work.”

For the 2014-15 school year, only one student is running for SGA president. Michael Dobbs, junior from Winchester, Ky., is the sole candidate and said he nervous and excited to start his tenure as SGA president and Student Regent.

Morgan said she is excited to work with Dobbs.

Said Morgan: “I have had the privilege of working with 22 Student Government Association presidents over the years and I’m excited to have the opportunity to work with Michael.”

lack of community due to the smaller lobby and study lounges.

“Since people were trying to have events and do fun things in the study lounges, it kicked people out from studying and everyone kind of got on people’s nerves with how loud they were,” Johns said.

“Everyone is on different schedules and it's so hard to have fun like we used to when we hardly have any space.”

Johns said while she plans on living off campus next semester, if that doesn’t work out she will return to Hester.

Following the completion of Hester’s renovations, the next major housing project for the University is to construct a New Franklin Residential College. This construction is scheduled to be completed in 2015.

The News

News

April 11, 2014 News Editor: Meghann Anderson Assistant Editor: Ben Manhanke Phone: 270-809-4468 Twitter: MurrayStateNews

Police Beat April 4 9:08 a.m A caller reported unwanted sexual contact occurring off-campus. Officers were notified and the report was referred to another jurisdiction.

10:22 a.m. A caller reported the theft of property from the Biology Building. Officers were notified and a report was taken for theft from a building more than $500.

April 5 2:48 p.m. A caller reported a medical emergency at the Racer Field.

Officers and Murray Ambulance Service were notified. A report was taken.

4:56 p.m. A caller from Hart Residential College reported an elevator malfunction. Officers and Central Heating and Cooling Plant were notified. A report was taken.

April 6 8:22 a.m. A caller reported a suspicious person in the 300 block of College Courts. Officers were notified and a report was taken.

9:08 p.m. A caller reported a suspicious vehicle in the Roy Stewart Stadium parking lot. Officers were notified and the scene appeared normal when they arrived.

April 7 5:22 p.m. A fire alarm was activated in the Business. Building Officers and the Murray Fire Department were notified. A report was taken.

9:43 p.m. A caller reported the smell of marijuana in Franklin Residential College. Officers were notified and a report was taken.

April 8 7:39 a.m. A burglary alarm was activated in the Carr Health Building. Officers were notified and the scene appeared normal when they arrived.

6:10 p.m. A caller reported a suspicious person near the Price Doyle Fine Arts Building. Officers were notified and a report was taken.

3A

Tacos take test drive Mary Bradley || Staff writer mbradley9@murraystate.edu

A food truck parked outside the Curris Center with free vegetarian tacos, faux tuna salad and faux chicken attracted many students Monday, providing them with food both die-hard carnivores and vegetarians could enjoy.

Brought to campus by Dining Services and Racer Hospitality and offered by Atlantic Natural Foods, the food is a part of a brand called Meatless Select, which sells meatfree alternatives.

Dining Services brought the company to campus to test out student reactions to the vegetarian options.

Paula Amols, director of Dining Services and Racer Hospitality, said she would potentially like to bring the food to campus permanently in the fall semester.

“We made arrangements for them to come here and to give out samples to see if students really like it,” Amols said. “We can start carrying some of these products at Fast Track and the taco filling we can use on taco day at the (Thoroughbred Room).”

Amols said the first rush of students gave all positive reviews.

She said she was happy to see students’ positive reactions to the samples.

Allison Crawford, senior from Murray, said the taco she tried was delicious and looked just like meat despite being a soy product.

Crawford said she has always tried to eat less meat, and believes including vegetarian-friendly foods are important.

“I think it’s important that Murray State increases its options of meatless meals, and I’m proud of them for that and I love our Dining

Deadline nears for journal

Amanda Grau || Staff writer agrau@murraystate.edu

Lori Allen/The News

Students line up outside the Taco Truck to try vegetarian food.

Services,” Crawford said.

Offering Fishless Tuna, Chik’n Sliders, Chik’n Patties, Five Bean Chili and Vegetarian Taco Filling can help bring new options to vegetarian students.

While the meat-free foods are focused on a vegetarian diet, the products are not just for vegetarians. They contain lower fat and calories, are made from soy or wheat and a source of protein.

“We have the vegetarian options every day at the T-Room and Winslow (Dining Hall),” Amols said. “We’re trying to find more gluten-free, and some of the food would work. Right now there doesn’t seem to be a huge demand for vegetarian, but even though we offer a good amount of stuff, they’re always looking for more.”

Amols said Dining Services is looking to bring better quality vegetarian options. She said the addition of Gardein, another meat-free food line, has improved selections, but the Meatless Select

Staff Report The May 23 submission deadline for the 2014 edition of Explorations, an online magazine geared toward publishing Murray State graduate students’ work is quickly approaching.

Explorations, which will be releasing its newest online publication next fall, displays graduate students’ creative writing, research and thesis in a variety of programs.

Despite the diversity of the programs involved, submissions are still limited to

can only make options better.

She said she hopes people will want to eat the food because they believe it is good, not solely because it is vegetarian.

Tai Collins, junior from Memphis, Tenn., had a soft taco, and said she couldn’t tell much of a difference between a regular meat taco and the meat-free taco.

Collins said she would eat the meat-free foods if provided by Dining Services, but isn’t sure if other students would.

“I think people are more stuck on the fact that it is a vegetarian taco, and they won’t give it a chance,” Collins said. “I feel like if they replace regular meat with it for a day, people wouldn’t know the difference.”

As a former Winslow employee, Collins said she has seen how options for vegetarians can be slim, but believes the more options available for them, the better.

“The vegetarian menu is limited,” she said. “More options would be great.”

certain subjects. Jeffrey Osborne, professor of English and philosophy, said that while a broad range of topics are still covered, the number of creative writing submissions has begun lacking.

While the goal of Explorations is to feature as many disciplines as possible, it is also limited by the variety of manuscripts submitted by students.

Though the diversity level of the publication hasn’t fully expanded, the number of submissions is high enough that some professors on the editorial board rarely try to recruit writers from their classes.

April 9 10:37 a.m. A caller from Franklin reported receiving harassing messages. Officers were notified and a report was taken.

10:07 p.m. A caller in the 400 block of College Courts reported a noise complaint. Officers were notified and a report was taken.

Call of Fame April 6 - 5:07 p.m. A caller reported the smell of gas in the Tho roughbred Room.

Off icers and the Murray Fire Department were notified. A report was taken.

Motorists assists – 4 Racer escorts – 2 Arrests – 0

Lori Allen/The News

COLLEGE DEMOCRATS BANQUET: Mayor Bill Wells and Wesley Bolin, Democratic Congressional Candidate, shake hands at the annual College Democrats Banquet. The banquet was held Monday night.

20 14

The Spring Senior Breakfast will be held Thursday, May 1,

at 8 a.m. in the Curris Center Ballroom. Seniors and graduate students who are graduating in May and August 2014 are invited to the breakfast free of charge.

Students should RSVP to the Office of Student Affairs no later than Friday, April 25. msu.studentaffairs@murraystate.edu or 270.809.6831 Faculty and Staff may purchase tickets for $5 from their administrative assistant or the Office of Student Affairs, 425 Wells Hall For more information contact the office at 270.809.6831

Attention Seniors

Ben Manhanke, Assistant News Editor, compiles Police Beat with materials provided by Public Safety and Emergency Management. Not all dispatched calls are listed.

Anti-slavery group raises awareness

‘

Two years after he attended a conference that opened his eyes to the realities of modern slavery, Michael Dobbs, junior from Winchester, Ky., began the International Justice Mission Club.

The IJMC is aims to give students in Murray the opportunity to help the millions of people living the realities of slavery today.

“I learned about modern-day slavery at Passion (Conference), and had no idea it was as large of a problem as it is,” Dobbs said. “Since then, I wanted to raise awareness and funds to combat it.”

According to the Anti-Slavery Organization, an international organization that works to bring awareness of modern slavery to the world, there are several different types of slavery still in existence today: bonded labor, child slavery, early and forced marriage, forced labor, descentbased slavery and trafficking. Among these, child slavery affects approximately 5.5 million children.

Dobbs In an FBI law enforcement bulletin, Amanda Walker-Rodriguez and Rodney Hill, who are both current members of the Maryland Human Trafficking Task Force, describe how sex trafficking, or sex slavery, is not just an international problem, but a domestic one as well.

The bulletin explains that in the sex trade, it is most common for slaves to be taken from less-developed areas such as southeast Asia, Russia and South America, and moved to more developed places such as the Middle East, western Europe and North America.

“Unfortunately, however, sex trafficking also occurs domestically,” Hill and WalkerRodriquez said in the bulletin. “The United States not only faces an influx of international victims but also has its own homegrown problem of interstate sex trafficking of minors.”

According to the bulletin, sex trade is the fastest growing business in organized crime, and is also the third largest criminal business globally.

Statistics like these made Dobbs want to create IJMC and get students involved in the fight.

“The biggest problem facing those in human trafficking is that very few people know about it,” Dobbs said. “The main thing is to get the word out and educate people on the problem, and that’s why students should join.”

Some people are hesitant to join IJMC, citing previous attempt of international justice that have never come to fruition.

“I’d really like to be a part of something like that,” said Olivia Deppen, junior from Louisville, Ky. “I’d be curious to know what they’d be doing exactly though. Is it another Kony 2012 thing, or is it legitimate?”

Dobbs’ goal for the organization is for it to swell to be a force of aid for those trapped in slavery.

“In my opinion, students should join if they want to give the voiceless a voice,” Dobbs said. “My hope is that the organization can build and grow in the future to become an asset to the fight against human trafficking.”

The IJMC is actively recruiting members. If anyone is interested in joining, Dobbs can be contacted through his email, cdobbs@murraystate.edu.

4A

April 11, 2014

The News

Opinion

Opinion Editor: Carly Besser Phone: 270-809-5873

Our View

One presidential candidate not enough The staff editorial is the majority opinion of The Murray State News Editorial Board.

The News 2609 University Station Murray State University Murray, Kentucky 42071-3301 msu.thenews@murraystate.edu Fax: 270-809-3175

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Me g h a n n A n d e rs o n News Editor • 270-809-4468 manderson22@murraystate.edu Ca r l y B e s s e r Opinion Editor • 270-809-5873 cbesser@murraystate.edu H u n ter H arrell Features Editor • 270-809-5871 hharrell@murraystate.edu R y a n R i c h a rd s o n Sports Editor • 270-809-4481 mrichardson5@murraystate.edu K a y la Ma c A ll is te r Chief Copy Editor • 270-809-5876 kmacallister@murraystate.edu Jared Jeseo Online Editor • 270-809-5877 jjeseo@murraystate.edu J a n i e S t e n b e rg Advertising Manager • 270-809-4478 jstenberg1@murraystate.edu Sarah B eitel -Stark s Advertising Production • 270-809-5874 sbeitel@murraystate.edu Ka te Ru sse ll Photography Editor • 270-809-5878 krussell13@murraystate.edu J o e H e d ge s Adviser • 270-809-3937 jhedges@murraystate.edu

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Each year during All-Campus Sing, the newly elected president of the Student Government Association is announced by SGA Adviser Jeanie Morgan to a crowd of hundreds of students and residents after weeks of campaigns, speeches and online polls.

While there is typically an element of surprise and mystery as to who garnered the most votes after the lengthy process, students this year will know exactly who the president is before the announcement is even made.

Junior Michael Dobbs was the only candidate to run for SGA president of the 2014-15 academic year.

Even if he proves to be an effective leader and politician for the student body and the SGA, it is still concerning that nobody else decided to run against him.

Whether nobody else ran because of lack of confidence or a sense of apathy, it is important that students at least have more than one choice when it comes to political candidates and their platforms.

We can’t only blame the issue of one candidate on students directly involved in student government. This problem is also a result of our overall disconnection to campus politics.

Students generally do not care about who wins these positions and most don’t bother to vote when election time comes around.

It’s hard for a presidential candidate to be excited about representing a student body that doesn’t care either way. We disregard someone who fights for the fate of our tuition money and against campus policies with which we may not agree.

We know little to nothing about someone who swears to keep our best interest in mind when voting alongside the Board of Regents, who can determine the future of our life at Murray State with a single meeting.

Twenty students and SGA members campaigned for eight at-large Senate positions, Residential College Association president, treasurer, secretary and vice president. Of all the nominees listed, could one more student not run against Dobbs for presidency?

Even though the SGA president has a difficult job, the representative is compensated with multiple University-related benefits such as unlimited Flex Dollars, an all-access parking pass and more.

As excessive as the presidential benefits are, they are meant to encourage students to run

and be more involved in campus politics.

Unfortunately, it isn’t working.

If only one candidate decided to run for president of the United States, Americans would undoubtedly be disappointed. There would be no diversity of viewpoints and plans of action. There would be lack of representation for people who felt that the one candidate was not the best person for the job.

This very scenario is occurring on our campus and we should care. Caring could range from running for the position ourselves, encouraging others that we feel could be an effective candidate to run for the position or by simply vocalizing our concern for the lack of political diversity on this campus.

Students don’t have to be a member of SGA or involved in Greek Life to become a political candidate. One thing candidates do need, however, is the knowledge of the issues and the confidence to want to change them.

This is the time where we need to get more involved, educate ourselves on political happenings at Murray State and question if one candidate is enough.

Freedom of choice is an opportunity that we are missing.

Captain’s Log

Embrace your hobby, even if it’s geeky I love computer games of any kind. I have my whole life. I’m typing this on my dual 24-inch monitors that are connected to my custom gaming computer I built myself.

Just this week, I have played Diablo 3, League of Legends, Skyrim and tried my hand at the new Elder Scrolls Online. I enjoyed every second.

Zac Garrison Now, some of you will Junior from instantly think “nerd alert!” while a group of Franklin, Ky. you will identify with me and think that what I do is pretty cool.

Hobbies are beautiful in the fact that they can totally transcend social structure, norms and stereotypes.

I know football players that used to sneak off after practice to play Dungeons and Dragons, fraternity presidents who build computers and played World of Warcraft for seven years (wonder who that could be) and guys who most would consider geeks, offer me some of the best sports analysis and bracket advice I’ve ever heard.

There is a problem here, however. Lots of people are ashamed to admit their hobbies because some may seem uncharacteristic for their clique or their friend groups.

This really upsets me, that people hide what they have fun doing because of the fear that other people will judge them when at the same time, there are probably millions of other people who do it.

What place does anyone have to judge someone on how they spend their spare time if it doesn’t interfere with their lives?

If some people find happiness in an un-

conventional way, why try to make them hide it by embarrassing them?

I’m used to being called a nerd and a geek and for the longest time I tried to hide my love for video games, computers and musical theater from my friends and even from my fraternity brothers.

Then I realized, despite the initial jesting that is bound to happen, people really don’t care as much as I thought.

People will prey on your weaknesses and if you act embarrassed about something that you enjoy, you give people the chance to break you down and judge you.

If there is something you enjoy doing, you have no reason to be embarrassed about it.

I don’t think you can truly be happy doing something if you have to hide it from the world because you don’t want some girl in class to make fun of you for having a Naruto sticker on your notebook.

This takes me back to a valuable lesson of Bullying 101.

People who feel they have to put you down in order to make themselves feel better will always be around. Ignore them. Hold up your Doctor Who notebook and think about how jealous they are that they can’t have a cool hobby like you do.

I think everyone deserves the right to pursue what makes them enjoy life. Life can kind of suck at times and anything that we can do to give it that little burst of sunshine is always a welcome treat.

Next time you think of judging someone because of a hobby that they have, remember some terrible stuff could be going on in their life and you are trashing the one thing they actually do enjoy.

There is a group that constantly sits on the first floor of the Curris Center who always brings laptops and video game systems

and hooks them up to the TVs. At the same time, they have about 10-15 friends with them who bring their Gameboys and some lay on the floor playing Magic: The Gathering. I notice them every time I walk through and sometimes hear people toss out a snide remark at them because they are doing something considered nerdy or geeky.

I have nothing but respect for that group of students who day in and day out disregard the comments, do what they love and have all their friends with them while they do it.

That’s all we really want in life, right? To be accepted, do what we love to do and do it with great company.

If any of you people from that group are reading this, keep doing your thing.

Lots of people complain about stereotypes, but do nothing to break the mold.

There are so many people in this world who are scared to branch out and try new things because they are worried of how people will react to it.

Once you let the people around you choose what you do, you surrender being an individual and you become a clone.

Who wants to hang out with a group of people who only do the same things as each other and like the same stuff and reject anyone who thinks otherwise?

That doesn’t sound like a group of friends in the first place.

Remember, no matter how alone you will ever feel you will always have a hobby. People may disappoint you and will come and go in your life but hobbies can be something you hold onto for a lifetime.

Also, people will always share your hobby, so you’ll never be alone.

If you enjoy doing something, do it. There should be no qualms or questions about that.

The News

Opinion

April 11, 2014

5A Did she really say that?

Letters to the Editor The movement to attract jobs and economic investment to Kentucky has an opportunity to take another step forward this session if the General Assembly passes Senate Bill 99 – legislation that will provide Telecom providers with the flexibility to invest in new technology to strengthen our Commonwealth's communications infrastructure.

Fiber optics and wireless frequencies are today's infrastructure of growth, just as highways, railways and waterways determined a community's economic health yesterday.

High-speed broadband communications erase the distances that traditionally limited markets and slowed down innovation. It creates new business models and even industries. For example, wireless apps have become a $20 billion industry in just a few short years.

As companies consider where to relocate or expand, connectivity and technology are priorities.

This is not simply so they can try to keep in touch with other employees, customers and suppliers, or that they are concerned about employees’ quality of life. Rather, they see a competitive advantage.

Research has shown that companies which invest heavily in new information technologies could significantly outperform their competitors and potentially double their chances of being highly competitive, from 35 percent to 74 percent.

If Kentucky wants growth-oriented businesses in the area, we need advanced technology.

Cities such as Louisville, Lexington, and Bowling Green already have access to the best. But their neighbors in small towns and rural areas need that technology, too.

Economic recruitment often involves tax breaks or other expenditure of public dollars.

Imagine the response of a local governing board if a company said “we want to invest millions in your community and all we ask is that you update ordinances to treat us the same as other businesses.”

The city fathers would be chased from office if they shunned the chance to create jobs without spending a dime of taxpayer money.

Historically, Kentucky has seen a significant amount of communications investment here, but in recent years, we’ve fallen behind neighbor-

Time for Greeks to grow up

ing states such as Indiana and Tennessee who have updated their laws to attract even more investments.

As the communications industry grows more competitive, and businesses and consumers increasingly move to IP and other advanced technologies, the incentive for future ployment of state-of-the-art broadband into every corner of the Bluegrass State is lacking.

Applied to another industry, current communications laws would require Main Street Hardware to stock horse collars, butter churns and soap.

While perhaps appealing to a few shoppers, most customers would find fewer options for products they actually need.

Senate Bill 99 updates our laws by giving providers the flexibility to meet the needs of their customers by investing in the new technologic innovations that businesses and consumers are demanding.

Already this session, SB 99 has passed the Kentucky Senate with strong bipartisan support (34-4) and was passed by the House Committee on Economic Development without an opposing vote.

The time has come for our legisla-

tive leadership to give SB 99 the chance to be voted on by the Kentucky House of Representatives.

Simply by reforming outmoded laws, our legislators can stimulate innovation, economic growth and jobcreation based on new technologies, all without spending a dime of taxpayer money. I urge them not to miss the opportunity and support SB 99.

Stephanie Nelson Kentucky Association of Economic Development

We want to hear your opinion!

Write us a letter and send it to letters@thenews.org.

EMAIL US!

I’ve Got a Story for You

Other things to unlearn before you go There is time enough to learn more before you graduate college in May, especially if it’s not May of 2014. As we mentioned in this space last week, you also have time to unlearn some things.

For instance, earlier this year a young man of my acquaintance proudly announced that he had given up the practice of Robert Valentine smoking. After a word of congratulations, I asked Senior lecturer of why he had elected to quit advertising his habit.

“Time to get a big boy job,” he answered.

It was only then that I realized it was not tobacco he had given up.

Still, it reminded me that, for young people, the habits carried for a lifetime may be only a few years old.

I’m over 40, and I’m still trying to shed the habits of procrastination and the Oxford Comma. It is not going well, but we can always keep trying to unlearn disadvantageous things.

One of the toughest habits to break is the use of certain words. As people depart campus for a new life on the job, or for a summer in a new place with new people, it could be a good time to start fresh in the language department.

There’s a pretty substantial list you’ll need to unload if you really want to stand out as an educated and capable person.

The big three are, of course: “like,” “totally,” and “whatever.” These used to be useful words and were often used by speakers of English.

Cheers and Jeers Cheers & Je e rs i s w r i tte n by t he Op i ni o n Ed i to r.

Questions, concerns or comments should be addressed to cbesser@murraystate.edu.

Comics

Now they have merely become mouth sounds that signify a) your existence, b) your enthusiasm or c) your confusion.

It’s better to say, “I exist, but I can’t think of any words right now,” or “Yay!” or “Duh.” Fans of “The Simpsons” may substitute Homer’s wellknown “Doh” with the same effect.

If you want an indoor job, or an outdoor job for which you are given a company car or Jeep, you’ll want to ditch some other popular bits of lingo. This is just a starter list of recommendations for your consideration.

Until you are 32 or married (whichever comes first) a pretty girl in a bikini may also be called ‘awesome.’ After that, the correct response is “What girl, dear?

- Robert Valentine, senior lecturer of advertising A. Awesome. The birth of a child, a storm out on the desert or your first view of the Pacific (or Lake Michigan, for that matter) can be considered awesome.

A cold beer or chocolate sprinkles on your ice cream, while is possibly quite pleasant, are not things which inspire awe in most of us who work for a living.

Gentlemen: until you are 32 or married (whichever comes first) a pretty girl in a bikini

may also be called “awesome.” After that, the correct response is: “What girl, dear?”

B. Impact, or impactful. Things do not have impact; they make an impact. “Impactful” is a word that was given to us by terrorists to deprive us of useful words such as: influential, effective, heuristic, powerful or life-changing.

There is no such word as “impactful” except as used by people who are writing blogs on a borrowed desktop computer from their grandmother’s basement.

C. The phrase: “I texted him (or her).” While the sentiment is reasonably clear, the use of the phrase is of questionable value - especially in the world of business.

When someone (your boss?) asks you to ascertain that a given person will be at the 2 p.m. meeting, the answer “I texted him,” may spring to your lips. Stifle it.

People who are charged with accomplishing things only rarely sit around waiting for a gentle electronic “ding” to announce the arrival of your text message.

Call, visit or send the police department, but when the boss says, “Did the check arrive in Los Angeles?” do not answer, “Like, I dunno; like I totally texted them.” That could prove to be your final utterance as an employed person.

Like, totally.

There are habits to create, too, and good ol’ Murray State is full of people who hope they have helped you discover new ways to prove to the world just how great an asset you can be.

The time is approaching when you’ll find out if it worked, but the habit of improving who you are and what you can do will serve you well for a lifetime.

Editor’s Note: “Other things to unlearn before you go” is part two of a two-part series.

Cheers to ... All-Campus Sing.

Whether you’re performing with an organization, supporting your friends or just relaxing on the lawn, All Campus Sing is an awesome and historical tradition that Murray State can call its own. We also don’t mind seeing all the adorable puppies.

Jeers to ... The Senate GOP blocking the Equity Pay bill.

The Paycheck Fairness Act aimed to narrow the pay gap between men and women. Gender-based pay inequality has been a topic of debate, but it seems we’re taking a step backward. Thanks, guys.

Jeers to ... All the couches that died in vain.

Apparently, couch burning is still a thing whether Kentucky wins or loses in the NCAA tournament. As broke college students, it’s pretty hard for us to see those cheap, functional couches not make it into a loving home.

Cheers to ... The Best of Murray.

We appreciate all the students who took the time to vote for their favorite local businesses, campus buildings, organizations, faculty and staff. It helps them get the positive recognition that they deserve.

Deciding whether or not to go Greek was something I thought about when I enrolled at Murray State.

Fraternities and sororities function as support systems for Carly Besser members and set guidelines Opinion Editor for what it means to be professional.

I decided not to be in a sorority, but I admire what Greek organizations provide for students who decide to take that route.

However, I have seen too many instances of Greeks behaving badly.

I have witnessed mottos like “men of character” and “developers of leadership” recklessly abandoned by the very men and women who swear by them.

Drunken antics, property damage and hazing are occurrences within Greek Life that are not spoken of, but they are harsh realities.

Is throwing a bottle of vodka through the door of a private home an action of character? Is putting dead animals in the mailboxes and on the porches of other Greek residences indicative of leadership?

I respect and recognize the benefits of joining a Greek organization.

Some of the most involved people on campus are in a fraternity or sorority. I have had the pleasure of working with Greeks at The Murray State News.

Many political leaders, CEOs and people of influence were Greek in their college days. But in order to reap the professional and developmental benefits of being Greek, one must embody its values.

These immature pranks make it too far past the Interfraternity Council, and some serious cases are never reported because of fear that it will look bad on the victimized organization and its members.

It seems that we are turning a blind eye to the damage caused by rowdy brothers and sisters. By damage, I don’t just mean a broken window or stolen composite – I mean the damage of reputation that Greeks will be subjected to if this continues to occur.

The media has been known to set a negative stereotype for Greek organizations across the country. I have read too many stories on what pledges have to go through to be inducted, the liberal use of “date rape drugs” at fraternity parties and the intense rivalries.

Just because these stories make it to our headlines does not mean our organizations have to embody those stereotypes.

As members of professional organizations, members of fraternities and sororities that commit these jokes (and crimes) should take a step back and really reflect on what it means to be Greek.

Set a positive example for students who plan on rushing. Parents shouldn’t have to be leery when their son or daughter announces they want to go Greek. They should be proud that their children want to take the initiative to become a more well-rounded person.

If you are in a fraternity or sorority that hasn’t been acting as maturely as it should, I hope you will take this perspective from someone who isn’t Greek seriously.

Non-Greeks see students proudly wear their letters on campus and announce that they’re Greek in those awkward icebreakers on the first day of class.

Make your organization one that you can be proud of. Grow up. cbesser@murraystate.edu

Hooves can’t point like fingers

By Katie Wilborn

6A

News

The News April 11, 2014

STUDENTS SOAK UP SPRING SUNSHINE Kate Russell and Jenny Rohl/The News

Top: Cory Moore, sophomore from Calvert City, Ky., balances on the slack rope. Bottom left: Michael Hoelscher, junior from Belleville, Ill., enjoys a game of corn hole. Bottom right: Katelin Cope (left) and Morgan Oliver (right) study in the Quad.

April 11, 2014

Section B

The News

Sports

Sports Editor: Ryan Richardson Assistant Editor: Nick Dolan Phone: 270-809-4481 Twitter: MSUSportsNews

15

# of consecutive wins in the OVC for tennis player Megan Blue (no career losses) Full Court Press

My thanks to all

Lori Allen/The News

Freshmen twins Eleonore and Virginie Tchakarova play together in a March 30 doubles match against Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

I N C H I N G C LO S E R Team knocks off EKU for chance at season OVC Championship Tom Via || Staff writer tvia@murraystate.edu

Lori Allen/The News

Sophomore Megan Blue returns a ball during a match.

In a long road trip with tough environments, women’s tennis earned a key victory against the two-time defending OVC champion Eastern Kentucky before falling to Morehead State.

“Playing Eastern Kentucky and Morehead State back-to-back on their home courts is tough,” Head Coach Olga Elkin said. “They are the rowdiest teams, especially when their men’s team is there. To be honest, they were obnoxious with taunting, but we handled it well.”

Sophomore Megan Blue said the team had one goal during the trip – to knock off the defending champions.

“From the second we got in the van, the goal for the team was to beat (Eastern),” Blue said. “There was never any doubt that we were going to lose, and that confidence showed.”

Junior Andrea Eskauriatza and sophomore Erin Patton earned the first victory in doubles, and freshmen Eleonore and Virginie Tchakarova followed in similar fashion to take the doubles point.

“We came out ready to go against

(Eastern),” Elkin said. “We started off super strong and knew we were stronger at doubles.”

In singles play, Eskauriatza and Eleonore added a pair of wins for the Racers. Needing another point for the team win, Blue came through for Murray State.

After splitting the first two sets at the No. 4 draw, Blue found herself down 4-5 in the third set before gaining a 6-5 lead.

“I had never felt so much adrenaline at the end of the match so I screamed ‘Go Racers’ because my body was shaking,” Blue said. “I kept telling myself to not miss the ball.”

After a short rally, Blue forced an error to win the set 7-5 and more importantly, the match.

“I don’t think I will ever forget that point because it felt like what winning the OVC would feel like,” Blue said. “It wasn’t because I had won but because we as a team had beaten (Eastern).”

Murray State’s victory ended Eastern’s 30-match conference winning streak dating back to 2011. While one streak ended, another stayed alive as Blue maintained her

see CLOSER, 2B

Howson named female athlete of 2013-14 Mallory Tucker || Staff writer mtucker11@murraystate.edu

The Murray State Women’s Center honored senior golfer Delaney Howson with the 2013-14 Margaret Simmons Female Student-Athlete of the Year Award.

The award is given to Murray State’s female student-athlete that best demonstrates the characteristics of former Murray State track and field coach Margaret Simmons, one that influences and inspires other student-athletes and one that represents the University.

Howson will add the honor to a list of accolades that make her one of the most decorated golfers in the program’s history.

The list includes the Ohio Valley All-Scholar Athlete award for 2012-13, three Academic Medal of Honors, OVC Freshman of the Year and First Team OVC All-Conference

awards every year.

Howson also holds the course record at Frances E.Miller Memorial Golf Course in Murray and the lowest round in the program’s competitive tournament history.

Howson’s average stroke is 73.3, the lowest in the OVC, and she is a contender for the OVC Player of the Year award.

This season alone, Howson has helped the team win two tournaments and has had three individual titles.

During her career, she has been a part of nine regular season tournament titles, won five individual titles and has earned 18 top-five finishes.

In addition to Howson’s performance on the golf course, she has maintained a 4.0 for seven consecutive semesters in her academic courses.

Howson will graduate in May

see ATHLETE, 2B

Kate Russell/The News

Senior Delaney Howson follows through on a swing in practice last semester.

My mom has multiple sclerosis, a debilitating disease causing interference between the brain, spinal cord and other areas of the body.

There is no cure, and the cause is unknown.

Ryan Some people are hardly affected, liv- Richardson Sports Editor ing normal lives.

In severe cases, people lose the ability to walk and speak clearly.

My mom has no control over the lower half of her body, limited control on the upper half, and she struggles at times with simple conversations.

Throughout my life, I have witnessed the disease slowly take control of her body, developing more symptoms as time has passed.

Still, it didn’t stop her from always being there for me, whether it was sitting on the sidelines when I played sports or simply telling me how much she supported me.

Though I still got to do many of the things I enjoyed, I had to grow up sooner than I wanted.

It was often hard to deal with and hard to appreciate then.

But now, I am thankful.

My dad supported me, too, but it was less noticeable to me at the time.

We seemed to disagree and fight more often than not. I always thought I was right, something I inherited from him.

Looking back, I can see he was trying to teach me to be responsible, to focus on what matters.

Most of all, he taught me how to become a good man, like he is.

And now, I am thankful.

My uncle and grandparents also played a big role in getting me to where I am today. They were always there for me, from the time I was born to now, a soon-to-be college graduate.

It has been almost four years since I started college at Murray State.

I had no idea where I would end up, but my dream was to come out prepared for life, with a real job and ready to start a family.

The road I took was one I could never have imagined, but I was lucky enough to arrive at my destination.

I could have gotten lost in all the sex and alcohol that comes with a public university, but my upbringing allowed me to stay focused.

My freshman year I developed a close friendship with Jared Jeseo that cannot be explained with any amount of words.

I also met Howl Bean, another friend who I can confide in and would trust with my life.

My sophomore year I started working at The Murray State News, where I’ve held four different positions.

As a photographer, I followed the men’s basketball team when it went on a historic run and was the last undefeated team in the nation.

As the Sports Editor, I was able to interview coaching legend Johnny Reagan and Olympic gold medalist Pat Pitney.

Now, I have a job lined up doing what I love.

As a member of the Honors Program at Murray State, I was required to study abroad.

I chose to go to London for a month last summer.

Again, words are not enough to express the memories I brought back.

From great friends to remarkable sights to crazy experiences, few things in life could ever match my time in London.

For all Murray State has given me, I am thankful.

Most importantly, though, I found Meghann Anderson here. It was not love at first sight, or second, or third.

But it is love. And happiness. And all other things good.

I think it’s her smile. It gets me every time. And those eyes – I can get lost for days. And that laugh – it’s the best music there is.

At any rate, when I look at my future, she’s what I see. That’s all that matters to me.

That’s why I asked her to marry me. She said yes and made me the happiest man alive.

It’s more than I could ever ask for.

For you, Meghann, I am the most thankful of all. mrichardson5@murraystate.edu

WHAT’S

HOME STAND

OVC PREPARATIONS

MISS MSU

BREATHE CAROLINA

INSIDE

Softball wins three of four games at Racer Field, 3B

Women’s golf ready for conference tournament, 4B

Contestants prepare for annual scholarship pageant, 5B

Electronic pop-punk band changes sound successfully, 7B

The News

Sports

2B

April 11, 2014

‘Breds lose first game on road Staff Report The ’Breds were able to plate five against the No. 13 Ole Miss Rebels Wednesday afternoon but ultimately fell at Swayze Field.

Murray State (14-16, 8-7 OVC) put three on the board in the fourth inning to kick off the scoring.

Junior Kollin Dowdy doubled down the right field line, scoring freshman Tyler Lawrence and junior Anthony Bayus.

Lawrence and Bayus were walked and advanced on a passed ball before Dowdy’s two RBI double.

Dowdy then advanced to third on a groundout by junior Michael Hargrove before crossing the plate on a Dalton West groundout to the first baseman.

However, the Rebels came storming back in the home half of the fourth.

Ole Miss outdid the ’Breds, scoring six runs off six hits.

The Rebels were also added by a Murray State error that led to four unearned runs.

Both clubs had one, two, three innings in the fifth but the ’Breds could not keep the Rebels off the board.

Ole Miss added another in the sixth and seventh innings.

Murray State pushed two more across the plate in the seventh but could not recover from the deficit.

Senior Cameron Finch (3-3) started on the mound for the Racers. Finch pitched 3.1 innings before being relieved by sophomore Cody Maerz.

The ’Breds six pitchers combined to give up just four earned runs, two walks and struck out four.

The 8-5 loss to Ole Miss made it two in a row for Murray State after dropping two out of three to Eastern Illinois this past weekend.

The Panthers took the first game 10-9 in 13 innings and the third game 14-3 to give them the series win.

Murray State earned its own extra inning win in game two, defeating Eastern Illinois 4-3 in 10 innings.

The ’Breds came back twice in the second contest after falling behind 2-0 in the first inning.

Bayus tied the game in the third with a two RBI triple, scoring McGown and Taylor Mathews.

The Panthers scored in the top of the tenth but were not able to keep the Racers off the board.

Both Dowdy and Hargrove drew bases loaded walks to give Murray State the win.

Freshman John Lollar earned his first victory of his ’Breds career.

Murray State stays on the road as it travels to Jacksonville State for a three game series today through Sunday.

ATHLETE From Page 1 with a degree in finance.

Howson’s award is special both for Howson and for its namesake, Margaret Simmons, who know each other personally.

In addition to starting the women’s track program at Murray State before the creation of Title IX, Simmons has both taught and worked in athletic aca-

Lori Allen/The News

Junior Michael Hargrove squares up for a bunt in the Sunday win over Eastern Illinois.

demics and compliance at Murray State, and has gotten to know Howson while she served as the running coach for the women’s golf team. “(Howson is) really the epitome of a student-athlete,” Simmons said. “You can’t get any better than a 4.0. Well, I guess she could get a hole-in-one on every hole of the golf course.”

As team captain, Howson also leads her teammates, just as Simmons led the way for women’s athletics at Murray State, according to Head Coach Velvet Milkman.

“(Simmons is) the pioneer,” Milkman said. “Women’s athletics is where it is today because of people like Margaret Simmons, who were strong and who were pioneers for women’s athletics.”

Milkman said she wants freshmen to come in and use players like Howson as a role model.

“Just like the ones that have come before her, she’s raised the bar for our program,” Milkman said. “She leads by example. If they work as hard as she does in the classroom, then they

have a chance to make all A’s.

“And if they leave it all out on the golf course like she does, they know they have a chance to win.”

Howson recognizes Simmons as a driving force in Murray State athletics, and said the award is more than just another accolade.

“I mean obviously it’s exciting to win it and be recognized and have my name underneath (Simmons’),” Howson said. “She’s just an awesome person. She makes you laugh, and puts things into perspective for everybody.”

CLOSER From Page 1 own unbeaten streak. Since arriving at Murray State, Blue hasn’t lost a conference match and currently sits at 15-0.

“I like to win, and that is what it comes down to,” Blue said. “If anything the streak gives me a confidence boost and shows me that I can win this match.”

Its reign as the only undefeated team in the OVC was short lived, as Murray State lost Sunday at Morehead State.

“It was tough because I didn’t want to take away from what we had done on Saturday,” Elkin said.

“Maybe I didn’t focus them enough because every single match is important.”

The match began with doubles, where the Tchakarova sisters fell in a tiebreaker 7-8 (1-7).

With the Racers behind 10, they needed four singles victories to stay undefeated.

While Blue and the Tchakarovas remained unbeaten in singles play, Eskauriatza fell in three sets to earn her first loss in conference play.

“I think the loss will show the team that every match is equally important,” Elkin said.

“Whether it is this weekend or next week at the tournament, we have to stay focused and I think something came positive out of it.”

Murray State now turns its attention to its final two matches of the year. While the Racers are tied with Eastern with one loss, two victories this weekend would give the Racers the top seed at the OVC Championships.

“We know how important these matches are, and UT Martin is playing for a spot in the tournament and Southeast Missouri State beat Morehead State,” Elkin said. “We have to play hard and know what is on the line and being the top seed is what these girls deserve.”

The team plays at noon Saturday at SEMO and ends its regular season at 2 p.m.

Sunday at UT Martin.

The News

Sports

April 11, 2014

3B

Softball moves above .500 with three OVC home wins Peter Northcutt || Staff writer pnorthcutt@murraystate.edu

Jenny Rohl/The News

Freshman Jocelyn Rodgers swings at a pitch in the Racers’ doubleheader against Tennessee Tech.

Freshman Taylor Odom led the softball team to a successful 3-1 weekend record Saturday and Sunday to move the Racers to 19-18 on the season.

Odom’s weekend included four runs, six RBIs, three walks, two doubles, a triple, a home run and a stolen base.

Her performance did not go unnoticed, as she was the recipient of her first Adidas OVC Player of the Week award.

Murray State Head Coach Kara Amundson praised Odom’s accomplishments. “Taylor did an amazing job,�

Amundson said. “She’s been doing really well at staying ready and waiting her turn. Her number was called this week and she stepped up and did an incredible job. She did the things her team needed her to do.�

The excitement was not lost on Odom, either. “This award was a very big deal to me, especially coming in as a freshman,� she said. “It just proves how hard I’ve worked.�

Odom and the Racers began the four-game home stand when they took on Tennessee Tech in a double-

header Saturday.

The Racers came out hot in the first game with sophomore Shelbey Miller scoring first with a solo home run.

In the following inning, Miller came up with another huge hit as she doubled off the left field wall to drive home freshman Cayla Levins for the Racers’ second run.

The Golden Eagles came back in the fourth inning with back-to-back doubles, then scored the go-ahead run on an error by catcher Jocelynn Rodgers.

Odom hit her first career home run to put the Racers back on top and seal the 5-4 victory. “It was very exciting,� Odom said. “I’ve always said I wanted to hit a home run in college and I came in and did it.�

In the rematch, the Golden Eagles jumped out to the early lead, scoring four runs in the third inning.

Though Murray State bounced back in the fourth inning to close the gap to 4-3, the Racer offense went cold.

Tennessee Tech tagged on five more runs to win the game 9-3.

Despite the loss, Odom said the team remained confident heading into Sunday’s doubleheader with conference leader Jacksonville State. “When we lost (to Tennessee

Tech), everyone was saying ‘we’ve got this, we’re going to go in strong and work really hard,’� Odom said. “Just knowing how good we can be gave us confidence going into the Jacksonville State games.�

The Gamecocks entered Sunday on a roll, having pitched shutouts in their previous five games.

The Racers ended that streak, scoring three runs in the fifth inning and two in the sixth to win 5-0.

In game two, the Racers wasted no time in the bottom of the first, scoring three runs.

With bases loaded, Odom hit a double up the middle to score all three runners.

Jacksonville State tied the game in the third inning with a three-run homer.

After exchanging the lead a few times, junior Mo Ramsey and senior Leslie Bridges each scored a run in the bottom of the seventh to win the game in dramatic fashion 6-5. “I’m most proud of how we turned around very quickly on Sunday and came out guns blazing ready to compete,� Amundson said. “Jacksonville State is always an incredibly talented team, and the way we competed on Sunday is how we are more than capable of playing all the time.�

Racers compete at home for f irst time Staff Report For the first time this season, the track and field team had a home-field advantage April 4 and Saturday, hosting the Margaret Simmons Invitational at the Marshall Gage Track.

Sophomore Hannah McAllister took advantage of the chance to compete in her hometown, posting one of her best days of the season. The Murray native set a personal record in the 200-meter dash with a time of 25.01 seconds – good for a second place finish.

McAllister also took the top spot in the 100meter dash with a time of 12.14 seconds.

Freshman Victoria Yocum shared McAllister’s success in the sprints. The Bardstown, Ky., native joined McAllister at the top of the 100-meter rankings, taking a second-place finish with a personal best time of 12.39.

Yocum also placed third in the 200-meter while freshman Morgan McNeely took sixth to round out a trio of Racers in the top six spots in the event.

Murray State also succeeded in the middistance events, with junior Brittany Bohn

and sophomores Emma Gilmore and Leah Krause sweeping the top three spots in the 1,500-meter.

Bohn’s time of 4:47.04 was a personal record, and Gilmore and Krause posted their best times of the season in the event.

In the field, junior Tonia Pratt continued her record-breaking season with a pair of second-place finishes. Pratt’s throw of 42.36 meters in the discus was her best mark of the season. Additionally, Pratt broke a stadium record in the hammer throw with a toss of 54.86 meters.

Junior Sydney Potts and sophomore Kiara Austin continued Murray State’s success in the field events with a pair of firstplace finishes. Potts won the javelin throw with a mark of 32.46 meters. Austin took first in the triple jump and third in the long jump.

Senior Katie Forshey rounded out the Racer winners with a first place finish in the high jump, clearing a height of 5 feet, 2 inches.

The Racers continue their outdoor season today and Saturday as they make the short trip to Bowling Green, Ky., for the Hilltopper Relays at Western Kentucky.

Kate Russell/The News

Two members of the Murray State track team train at the Marshall Gage Track earlier this semester.

Tracy D. McKinney, CIC Steven S. Dabbs, CIC

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MURRAY STATE RACER ROWING PRESENTS The First Annual Cardboard Boat Regatta BUILD AND RACE YOUR OWN BOAT ENTIRELY OUT OF CARDBOARD! CARR HEALTH POOL APRIL 24, 2014 / 6:00 PM $50 FOR FIRST TEAM ENTRY, $20 PER EACH ADDITIONAL BOAT Prize money for the top three finishers For more information, contact Matthew Fischer at mfischer@murraystate.edu or Danielle Eichelberger at deichelberger@murraystate.edu

Sports shorts

The News

Sports

4B

April 11, 2014

Women prepare fo r p o s t s e a s o n

News in less than a minute

Mallory Tucker || Staff writer mtucker11@murraystate.edu

Tennis handed two road losses Staff Report

The women’s golf team returned from Ole Miss’ Rebel Intercollegiate finishing 16th out of a field of 18 competitors. The Racers finished 67 over par with a score of 931. Georgia Regents UniversityAugusta took the tournament’s top spot at seven over par with a score of 871.

Murray State was the only OVC team to compete at Ole Miss in the 54-hole tournament. The competition included schools such as Tulane, Texas State, the University of Tennessee, the University of Kentucky and Notre Dame.

Head Coach Velvet Milkman and senior Delaney Howson said the tough competition was huge in preparing for the quickly approaching OVC championship.

“I don’t think it was our best of the year, but you always learn stuff when you don’t do your best,” Howson said. “I think even though it wasn’t our best effort, it’ll help us going into this weekend and then conference. It makes you better to play against good players. You can learn from what they’re doing.”

Milkman said the Racers need to work on one aspect of their game in particular.

“Putting,” she said, “It’s very simple. About 12 feet and in, we need to be making more of those putts.”

Heavy rain disrupted the Racers’ schedule just as snow affected much of their early season. Originally scheduled for three days of 18 holes, the Racers played 18 holes Friday and 36 Saturday in order to beat the rain.

“Usually if we play that way it’s 36 (holes) the first day,” Milkman said. “Thirty-six the second day is a little more physically demanding, but we shot our best round. Mentally we were tired, and we let some shots get away at the end.”

The change of rounds wasn’t the only unusual element in the Rebel Intercollegiate. The tournament was played with four golfers playing a hole at a time, as opposed to the usual three.

“The biggest thing was playing in foursomes – I mean that was weird,” Howson said. “I’ve never done that.”

The Racers have a long weekend ahead of them, first traveling to Highlands Golf Course in Huntsville, Ala., for a tri-match with Austin Peay State and Belmont before heading to the Dalhousie Golf Club in Cape Girardeau, Mo., to face Southern Illinois. Milkman is excited to play these courses in order to prepare for the OVC Championship.

“Really, the main reason we’re doing it is for the golf course – it’s the same design as we’ll play at the OVC Championship,” Milkman said. “We had the opportunity to go down and play one, and it’s good to take advantage of.”

Men’s tennis returned home with a pair of losses from Eastern Kentucky and Morehead State April 4 and Saturday.

While the Racers went winless in their matches, senior Adam Taylor had the most opportunities to win.

Taylor’s closest match was a threeset thriller against Morehead State.

After dropping the first set 6-7, Taylor gained momentum in the next set and pulled out the 6-4 win to force a decisive set.

Taylor’s opportunity to grab a Racer point came up empty with a 10-5 loss.

The Racers sit at 3-13 overall with a 1-7 OVC record.

Murray State wraps up its season this weekend with nonconference matches against South Carolina and Kentucky.

Freshman Sydney Trimble follows through on a swing in a practice last semester.

Payne earns freshman honor

S i g m a C h i w i n s i n i n t ra m u r a l s h o o t o u t

Staff Report

Peter Northcutt || Staff writer

Kate Russell/The News

possession battle for the majority of the first half.

The first goal in the game came from Sigma Chi midfielder Chris Koechner on a 30-foot strike just before halftime.

“I’m a senior and I hadn’t scored in my four years here,” Koechner said. “I was just thinking, ‘please go in.’”

The second half was much more of a possession game as both teams jockeyed for field position.

Sig Ep’s junior Andrew Cude passed to sophomore Heath Fritz for the game-tying goal.

“I saw Cude had the ball on the left side and there was no one in the backfield,” Fritz said. “He played it across, I snuck behind

pnorthcutt@murraystate.edu

SBNation.com named freshman Cameron Payne Mid-Major Freshman of the Year 2013-14 in its end of the year awards.

After helping the Racers to their fifth consecutive 20-win season, Payne capped off the year with the CollegeInsider.com Tournament championship and the honor of CIT MVP. During the first year of his college career, Payne was also named the OVC Freshman of the Year and a Kyle Macy National Freshman of the Year award finalist by CollegeInsider.com.

Payne finished the season with 574 points and 185 assists in 34 games.

Sigma Chi defeated Sigma Phi Epsilon in intramural soccer Wednesday night to move to 2-1 on the season.

Sig Ep came out of the gate explosively with a shot on goal almost immediately. The team continued its attack with several crosses in front of the goal, but none landed on target as the Sigma Chi defense held strong.

Sigma Chi’s keeper was in the action early and often, making key saves in the early minutes of the game. Sigma Chi’s offense was rooted mainly in counter attacks as the men struggled to win the

the defense and just tapped it in.”

The play was scrappy in the waning minutes of the game as both teams went for the go-ahead goal. Neither was successful as regulation ended in a tie, resulting in five minutes of extra time.

Both teams had multiple scoring opportunities but failed to capitalize. With the match still tied at 1, the teams went to penalty kicks to decide the winner. With a 3-2 count favoring Sigma Chi heading into the final set of kickers, Sigma Chi’s Braden Throgmorten placed the ball in the lower left corner of the net to seal the victory.

Both teams can improve their records on Sunday as the intramural tournament approaches.

Kate Russell/The News

Sig Ep’s Robert Spalding dribbles past Sigma Chi’s Cody Waggoner.

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April 11, 2014

5B

The News

Features Editor: Hunter Harrell Assistant Features Editor: Breanna Sill Phone: 270-809-5871 Twitter: MSUNewsFeatures

Features

Rate or fate?

Contestants prepare for Miss MSU Madison Wepfer || Staff writer mwepfer@murraystate.edu

Photo illustration by Fumi Nakamura/TheNews

A student searches RateMyProfessors.com for professor reviews before scheduling classes.

Website provides source as students schedule for fall classes Katrina Yarbrough Staff writer kyarbrough2@murraystate.edu

It is that time of year again for college students. The planning and the decision-making of what their schedules will be for next semester has finally arrived.

The process of choosing classes is usually dependent on what classes are still needed for their degrees. However, some students will take extra time to make sure

the professors for those particular classes are the ones they want to spend the semester with.

RateMyProfessors.com seems to have become popular on campus. The site allows students to enter their school, class and professor information into a database for other students to see.

They give the professor a rating in various areas and can also leave comments.

The site is public and accessible by all in order to gather as much information as possible to provide more accurate feedback.

“The site has some value as long as students view it with a critical eye,” said Chris Trzepacz, assistant professor of science, engineering and technology. “If a professor has only a handful of reviews, they could represent the most polarized experiences in the class. A larger

sample size will give more accurate profiles of the faculty.”

The ratings can be helpful when trying to decide whether a professor may be too difficult for one particular student but just right for another. Of course, the hotness rating that is available would make no difference on their ability to present material.

According to Savannah Young, freshman from Cadiz, Ky., she uses the site before making any scheduling decisions. It’s a way to see how the professor could potentially run their class and a good way to know if they are a suitable fit.

These ratings are meant to be valuable for students, but they are valuable to the professors as well.

The ratings could serve as constructive criticism which professors may use to improve performance in the classroom.

“I do consider the comments left about me on the site,” Trzepacz said. “I have tweaked my delivery some based on them but I value the course evaluations given by the University more.”

The site also provides professors with the opportunity to respond to the reviews that have been left. In a section called “Professors Strike Back,” students can view the feelings of the professors based on what has been posted. Trzepacz mentioned that he has never responded to the feedback online.

The Internet can be a misleading tool when it comes to any part of information gathering and decision-making. Is the site a better source than getting the information by word of mouth?

“A lot of negativity is posted on-

see PROFESSOR, 6B

Chops complete potato drop Brandon Cash Staff writer bcash1@murraystate.edu

Lambda Chi Alpha and the Society of St. Andrews donated 42,000 pounds of potatoes to agencies in the surrounding area Saturday.

The fraternity had heard of another organization on campus who had also donated potatoes to churches and agencies in the area last semester and decided to look into it.

“We have worked with Need Line every year for many years, donating over 20,000 pounds of food each year,” said J.C. Aponte, junior from Clarksville, Tenn. “This year with the potatoes we have donated around 40,000 pounds of food to the Murray-Calloway Need Line, and a total of 75,000 pounds of food to Calloway County and surrounding communities.”

Lambda Chi researched charities and organizations that could provide potatoes and found the Society of St. Andrews, which donated about 42,000 pounds of potatoes.

The potatoes came bagged and ready for delivery at 8 a.m. Saturday where the fraternity

members loaded them into U-Haul trucks and began transporting them to the Need Lines in Calloway, Mayfield and Marshall counties.

“Lambda Chi contacted me wondering if we wanted any potatoes, and of course we said yes,” said Tonia Casey, executive director of the Murray-Calloway County Need Line. “We can give people canned potatoes but because there are so many ways you can prepare fresh potatoes we were excited for the donation.”

Right now, Need Line is still donating the potatoes and hopes to be able to continue until April 18.

Casey said the Murray-Calloway County Need Line recently acquired new buildings to house donations such as the potatoes.

“All of the fraternities and sororities at Murray State have, at one time or another since I've been director, donated, volunteered or participated in a fundraiser,” Casey said. “There is always a fraternity or sorority or some other organization at Murray State that pitch in and help, as well as some of the faculty and staff.”

see POTATO, 6B

Photos courtesy of Barrett Pazderka

Lambda Chi Alphas load potatoes into U-Haul trucks.

One lucky woman will be crowned Miss Murray State University Saturday.

After interviewing more than 50 women, the judges have narrowed it down to 15 women who will participate in the final competition this weekend.

Since the 1970s, Miss MSU has given young women the opportunity to represent their families, their organizations and the University.

“It brings the campus community together to support 15 amazing women who are highly involved on this campus,” said Elizabeth Tarter, executive director of Miss MSU. “The Miss MSU 2014 continues to be involved in community and University events throughout the year.”

Because the pageant is based on scholarship, the contestants must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and they must plan to attend Murray State the following year. The ideal candidate must be scholarly, have good involvement in the community and take pride in Murray State, Tarter said.

During the events Saturday, the 15 contestants will be interviewed by the three judges in the morning. Later that evening, doors will open to the community and the final portion of the competition will begin. The women will perform a dance number, introduce themselves to the audience and walk in their formal wear.

“The top five are based off of the interview that day and your individual walk with your evening wear,” said Christina Priddy, junior from Franklin, Tenn. “The individual walk is you walking by yourself as they read off all your accomplishments.”

The theme for this year’s pageant is a masquerade theme called “Behind the Mask.” The theme adds another entertaining aspect to the show.

Additionally, Men of the Note Jazz Band is going to perform at the show and President Tim Miller and his wife will crown Miss MSU during the awards.

Brie Haner, Haley Barfield, Lexy Gross, Amanda Winchester, Shayna Busche, Mallory Tucker, Angela Survant, Summer Davis, Paige Hoffmeister, Heather Wissbaum, Christina Priddy, Sarah Hamby, Hannah Owens, Devan McCoy and Kayla Hartley are all working hard for the crown. Although the competition mostly stays the same every year, the group dynamic and contestants change.

“I’m excited to be on stage with all the girls I’ve become friends with and seeing everything come together,” said Kayla Hartley, junior from Ledbetter, Ky. “I think these are some of the best girls on campus so we’ve really gotten along.”

With the excitement also comes nerves. The women have to do a solo walk in an evening gown while the master of ceremonies reads a prepared description of their hobbies and aspirations.

“I am most nervous about the evening wear walk,” said Barfield from Hanson, Ky. “It isn't often that I wear high heels so I'll certainly be praying for gracefulness that evening!”

Other than being graceful, the winner of Miss MSU should have qualities that represent Murray State accurately. The 15 women who will perform Saturday strive to exhibit those qualities.

“She needs to be someone who is very wellrounded and involved in the community and has devoted a lot of her college career to Murray State,” said Winchester, junior from Murray, Ky. “They also need to be poised but approachable and confident.”

The show will be at 7 p.m. in Lovett Auditorium Saturday. The tickets are $3 ahead of time and $5 at the door.

F aces&Places

Student showcases fitness, rhythm Breanna Sill Assistant Features Editor bsill@murraystate.edu

A common fear among college students is gaining the dreaded “freshman 15.” Although most students choose to sit back and pray for the best, some students are taking the initiative and participating in other activities to prevent gaining the extra pounds.

Ashley Dawson, freshman from Murray, took the initiative in high school to keep herself in shape and instantly fell in love with the exercise craze Zumba.

Zumba is a Latin-inspired dancefitness class that incorporates international songs and dance movements into an extensive aerobic-cardio workout.

“Zumba is so effective because

it’s fun,” Dawson said. “Most workouts are boring and monotonous, but Zumba is a party. You don’t even realize you’re working out. It keeps people coming back for more.”

Dawson fell so in love with Zumba that she felt compelled to become an instructor herself, so for her 18th birthday, her parents paid for her certification classes.

Immediately after that she began working at the Wellness Center, all while she was still in high school.

Dawson, an exercise science major, feels that through doing and teaching Zumba her confidence level has skyrocketed.

“I gained so much confidence in myself,” she said. “I’m generally a shy person and I don’t talk to people unless they talk to me first, but when I’m dancing I forget all about that.”

Being able to find time to bal-

ance her schoolwork and workout commitments can be challenging, Dawson said. Sometimes she finds herself getting overwhelmed with how busy she is.

“If I’m stressed about time or school, that’s when I know I need to go to Zumba,” she said. “Zumba can cheer me up and I leave calm and collected.”

Some students may be afraid to get up and dance in front of other people, or even to get out and be active, but Dawson has a piece of advice for them: being embarrassed or nervous about what other people in the gym think is never an excuse not to go.

“Fitness is something you should be selfish about,” she said.

“Make a fool out of yourself and be fearless because at least you are making yourself a better person.”

Fumi Nakamura/TheNews

Ashley Dawson, freshman from Murray, teaches Zumba on Mondays and Wednesdays.

The News

Features

6B

THE

“Entertainment news sure to spice up your lunch conversation”

Creative Easter basket DIY Katrina Yarbrough Staff writer kyarbrough2@murraystate.edu

WATER COOLER Information and photos from The Associated Press Compiled by Breanna Sill

ROLLING STONE FLUBS CONSTITUTION COVER

Easter baskets filled with candy and toys are not only for children.

They can be a great tradition for any age group.

Discovering a basket full of goodies on Easter morning might be a pastime college students remember from childhood.

“It was something they did every year,” said Erika Glauber, sophomore from Freeburg, Ill. “My parents bought us a basket every year and each one was just as exciting as the one before it.”

However, it is not impossible to buy small things and put together a personalized basket, especially when it comes to giving the basket to someone older than a middle school kid.

Items Needed: • • • • • • • • • •

Any type and size of basket Tissue paper or fake grass Candy Gift cards DVDs School or art supplies Books Clear plastic wrap Bread ties Ribbon

Steps 1 . The basket will serve as the base for the entire project. A medium to large sized basket will hold much more than something small. Also, plastic or wood will be sturdy enough to hold heavy objects.

Others get creative with hats or buckets.

2. Place tissue paper or the fake grass normally used in Easter baskets into the bottom of the basket to give it decorative appeal as well as support for the items. They should not just be thrown inside.

3. Gather the items chosen to put inside. These can be candy, gift cards to favorite food places or stores, DVDs that could create a fun movie night, school supplies to help any college student through the year, books to enjoy on the sunniest or rainiest of days or any other fun thing that would make the receiver happy.

4 . With the tissue paper or grass in place, place each item accordingly. Usually, larger items look better when placed in the back of the basket and smaller items in the front.

This gives it a balanced look and everything will fit.

5. Although the basket does not have to be covered, a plastic wrap tied together at the top of the basket with a bread tie can create the childhood feel of a traditional Easter basket. Tie a ribbon around the bread tie to cover it and everything is secured inside.

April 11, 2014

F

lashback riday

Flashback to the year 1990 when the price of gas was at a whopping $1.34. What?! It was also the year “The Simpsons” made its debut on FOX and everyone wanted a Furbie and pants like MC Hammer. Here are the top movies from 1990 according to boxofficcemojo.com.

1

Home Alone

2

Ghost

3

The cover of next month’s Rolling Stone magazine boasts a nude photo of Julia Louis-Dreyfus bearing a tattoo of the U.S. Constitution across her back.

The problem with the cover? The Constitution is signed by John Hancock, who signed the Declaration of Independence, not the Constitution.

Dances with Wolves

Pretty Woman

5

4

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Compiled by Madison Wepfer

POTATO RIVERA AND SEAN CALL OFF ENGAGEMENT Rapper Big Sean and actress Naya Rivera have called off their engagement.

A representative for Sean announced Wednesday that the rapper canceled all plans of the wedding to Rivera.

Neither star has spoken out via Twitter about the breakup.

Soundbyte “A new survey shows that New York is still the top spot for vacationers during holidays.

And the most popular New York City attraction for those tourists is the middle of the sidewalk.”

- Seth Meyers

PUZZLES Want to sponsor Sudoku Puzzles?

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

From Page 5B

From Page 5B

Need Line is a community-based program, and is not supported by any state or federal funds. Not only does it accept donations from Murray State faculty, staff and students but it has also helped families, faculty and staff members who struggle with money or food.

Need Line has partnered with Murray State’s food banks hoping to reach more individuals and families who are a part of Murray State by providing for the food bank.

Said Casey: “As a key partner, we are trying to reach out to make sure no one in the community goes hungry. Right now we are serving over a thousand people and families every month.”

line,” said Drew Scott, sophomore from Flora, Ill. “Most people will post the more negative stuff than positive. I believe the site is a good starting point for maybe a freshman or transfer student who doesn’t know a lot of students just yet but it’s better to get opinions from actual people. They will usually be more open and honest since you’re face to face with them.”

Whether a student decides to use the site to make their de-

Photos courtesy of Barrett Pazderka

Thousands of bagged potatoes await loading.

Tweets d e r u t a e F

A compilation of Tweets that made us laugh, cry or scratch our heads.

This week’s topic: #ACMAwards

keltieknight

Chase Rice

@KeltieKnight yesterday at the #ACMAwards @carrieunderwood told me she doesn't gamble because she’d rather not lose SHOE money. we like her, right?

11:31 a.m. 7 April 14

@ChaseRiceMusic For tonight, COUNTRY music is KING!!! Time to drink!! #ACMAwards 10:12 p.m. 6 April 14

Greer Grammer

Jamestown Story

@Greer_Grammer Secretly wishing Blake Shelton said 'Adele Dazeem' when he went to mess up Luke Bryan's introduction #ACMAwards #acms 11:22 p.m. 6 April 14

@jamestownstory Is there an award for "Best Pants at the ACMs?" If so, Sheryl Crow has it locked up. #ACMAwards 9:56 p.m. 6 April 14

SOLUTIONS AT THENEWS.ORG

SUDOKU

PROFESSOR

cisions on whom to take a class with or by speaking to a fellow student, professors know the information is out there and they are open to speaking to their students about it.

“I acknowledge the presence of the site,” Trzepacz said.

“When I discuss registration in class, I let my students know of the potential utility and inaccuracies of the content.”

Reference points such as RateMyProfessors.com serve as guides. When deciding on something that will define the course of a student’s semester, it is best to gather as many opinions as possible, even if the Internet is the only reference used.

Find the perfect spring dress to wear at All Campus Sing next week!

The News

Features

April 11, 2014

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’?

TODAY • 12:30 p.m.

Sociology Student Club meeting, Faculty Hall, room 107 • 6 p.m.

Distinguished Alumni Recognition Dinner, Curris Center Small Ballroom

T • All day U Last day to audit/drop and half-semester E full classes S • 8 a.m.

Dale Leys Art Exhibition, D Robert O. Miller ConferA ence Center Y

SATURDAY • 8 a.m.

Duathlon, Eiffel Tower Park • 10 a.m.

Horticulture Club spring plant sale, Pullen Farm and Arboretum

WEDNESDAY • 10 a.m.

Scholars Week General Poster Session, Curris Center Large Ballroom • 3 p.m.

All-Campus Sing, steps of Lovett Auditorium

7B

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

• 1 p.m.

S Family Fishing Afternoon, Golden U Pond Visitor Center N D A Y

M • 8 a.m.

Dale Leys Art Exhibition, Robert O. O Miller N Conference Center D A Y

THURSDAY

Don’t miss: Miss MSU Saturday, 7:30 p.m.

Lovett Auditorium

• 6:30 p.m.

Kim Trevathan: Transformative Places, Jesse D. Jones Hall, room 1212

Music Review

Photo courtesy of altpress.com

Breathe Carolina releases its fourth studio album Tuesday.

Breathe Carolina’s ‘Savages’ conquers new sound Hunter Harrell || Features Editor hharrell@murraystate.edu

It’s not you, it’s the bass.

I’m sorry that I am not listening to you, but I can’t help but tune out all other noises to hear this next drop.

Dizzy electronic pop-punk outfit Breathe Carolina will release its fourth studio album, “Savages,” Tuesday through Fearless Records.

Thanks to Fearless Records, I was able to stream the album before its release, and what a treat it was.

From the opening track, I felt the familiar Breathe Carolina sound. The entrance to an album is key to hooking a listener and “Bury Me” sounds like someone running until the bass drops.

I’ve always admired the electronic dance sound mixed with the alternative scene and scream of Breathe Carolina.

On its previous albums, its lyrics have always been clever. “Bury Me” set my expectations high for the rest of the album with these lyrics: “They say I'm a sinner / Tonight I'm just a thief / Hold your heart for ransom / away with me.”

I’m not saying the album lost steam, but the second track featuring Karmin lacks a wow factor that contends “Bury Me.” Moving into “Sellouts,” featuring Danny Warsnop of Asking Alexandria, I found the roots of the band I fell for at my first Warped Tour in 2009, when their album “Hello Fascination” was released.

Then came “Shots Fired.” The title of the fourth track had me wondering how much the sound of Breathe Carolina had changed since the vocalist and co-songwriter Kyle Even left the band. I definitely missed Even’s screamed vocals,

but the sick drops and variety of songs averted my attention from the huge loss.

“Shots Fired” has a rhythm and blues feel to it and transitions smoothly to my favorite song on the album, “Collide.”

This is easily the next “Hello Fascination” or “I.D.G.A.F.” for Breathe Carolina fans.

Track number six, “Please Don’t Say,” starts off with an acoustic guitar different than the typical Breathe Carolina sound and lyrics that blew my mind. I fell for this song instantly – head over heels. It’s a softer song that highlights the vocal talent of David Schmitt without all the extra autotune.

Moving into the next track “Shadows,” I was hooked to the beat.

Buried deep in the album, the title track “Savages” was catchy, but not my favorite on the album.

Following the title track, the album

wraps up nicely with “Chasing Hearts,” featuring Tyler Carter, followed by “I Don’t Know What I’m Doing” which has a simple yet intoxicating drop.

The final track, “Mistakes,” takes the chill route out of the album and wraps it up nicely.

Between the beats, the drops and the lyrics, the album has a solid, satisfying sound. Though different than Breathe Carolina’s previous three albums, it definitely has a place in the band’s portfolio. Long-time fans will need to adjust to change, but I’ve always been a firm believer in artists who change their sound and adapt well with the times.

In the era of dubstep and club remixes, Breathe Carolina will continue to hold its own. I am more than excited to see the band perform at Vans Warped Tour this summer.

Advice you didn’t ask for

Philophobia You are born with only two fears: the fear of falling and the fear of loud noises.

As a child, when you feel like you are being dropped, Hunter your body goes instant Harrell into mode.

Features Editor panic When you hear something that disturbs the peaceful air, you cry.

As we grow, we get over these fears and develop new ones. For example, I'm deathly afraid of snakes, but will crank my music as loud as it goes when I'm alone.

However, I believe humans never completely outgrow the fear of falling; it only changes.

Falling is characterized by losing your balance or losing your grip.

Physically falling may be something we learn to overcome – we simply patch up the boo-boos, dust ourselves off and try again. But emotionally falling is something we fear forever.

Not only do we fear falling in love, but also falling out of it. The name for the fear of falling in love or emotional attachment is philophobia.

Nowadays, some people push away every feeling that could hurt them. We avoid making deeper connections with aquaintances because it would hurt to lose grip of the friendship and slip into something more complicated. The same could be said when it comes to making friends.

We are afraid to trust in others because of the possibility of someone walking away, leaving us falling.

Honestly the odds of this happening are 50-50. If you ask me, those are pretty good odds.

It’s like a true or false question on a quiz. You may not know the answer, but you have an indication that it could be equally right or wrong.

I’ve endured and conquered this fear and could explain how worthwhile it is, but I know it will never change how others view their own fear of falling in love with another person.

You will fall eventually, so why not now? Why let your fear of falling keep you from a happy relationship?

Even if it ends, it could still be some of the best memories of your life as you grow older.

Take it from me: a known scaredy cat of ruining simple friendships over a deeper relationship. It's worth the risk.

Without overcoming philophobia, you may never make real connections with people.

The worst aspect of this fear is that it often leads to a life of solitude and loneliness.

If you base your relationships on the fear you might end up alone, you will always be left alone.

Don’t write feelings off based on fears. hharrell@murraystate.edu

Glow Run lights up Murray Madison Wepfer || Staff writer mwepfer@murraystate.edu

The neon outfits and glow sticks were broken out Saturday when Sigma Sigma Sigma hosted its annual Glow Run 5K to raise money for the Robbie Page Memorial.

The Robbie Page Memorial is a national philanthropy of Tri-Sigma.

It helps pay for therapists who help hospitalized children cope with illnesses and long hospital stays.

More than 400 people participated in the Glow Run. Tri-Sig raised more than $5,500 for the philanthropy.

The run began and ended at the

Carr Health Building, but snaked all around the city of Murray.

Lexy Gross, junior from Paducah, Ky., and Kristin Henson, sophomore from Hickory, Ky., organized the run.

Henson said that she was pleased with the run and the turnout.

“There was a large turnout of runners and walkers for the event,” Henson said. “We had a goal to raise $5,000 for the Robbie Page Memorial Fund and we well exceeded our goal. It was encouraging to see so many people come out and support the foundation.”

A Glow Run is a 5K with a twist.

Participants are encouraged to wear neon clothing, glow sticks and even neon paint. Usually the Glow Run

course is set up with black light zones to make everyone’s “glow gear” pop and music zones to keep the party pumping.

Tri-Sigma gave out a spirit award and an award for the winners of the male and female division for the fastest times.

“Everyone was encouraged to wear neon,” Henson said. “We gave out a spirit award to the person decked out in the most items of neon clothing.

We sold glow sticks at the run that a lot of people wore during the race.”

Overall, the event was not about how fast the participants ran or walked, it was about having fun, dressing up and glowing to the music.

Photo courtesy of CrossFit Murray

CrossFit Murray won an award for “Most Spirited Team” at Tri-Sigma’s annual glow run.

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The News April 11, 2014