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September 12, 2019 | Vol. 94, No. 3

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Richard Thompson/The News

Camryn Clift Contributing Writer

Residents of James H. Richmond Residential College are facing significant maintenance issues despite recent renovations, which were a result of the 2017 gas explosion. From Aug. 14 to Sept. 5, 129 work orders were filed by students in New Richmond. The Murray State News filed an open records request per the Open Records Act for maintenance reports and records in New Richmond during this time period. Thirty-five reports were filed

The piping was actually flooding the room below us - Dakota Hoagland, sophomore from Owensboro, Kentucky

for issues with water, and 34 for air conditioning. Other work orders dealing with electrical malfunctions and even the presence of mice have been common. The building was evacuated Sept. 2 because the odor of gas was reported on the first floor. No gas was detected upon inspection and the Murray Fire Department gave the all-clear to re-enter the building.

“Work orders are prioritized and responded to based on urgency,” Shawn Touney, director of communication, said. “Items such as air conditioning and plumbing needs are responded to more quickly than a storage closet needing rekeyed or couch moved in the building,” Dakota Hoagland, sophomore from Owensboro, Kentucky, lives in the original

wing of New Richmond. He is one of the students that has grappled with multiple maintenance issues since the beginning of the semester. What began as just a toilet that wouldn’t flush, requiring both residents of Hoagland’s room to use the public restrooms on the first floor of the residential college, quickly turned into more pressing matters. “We’ve had housing people come in at least six or seven times in the last three weeks, since the semester started,” Hoagland said. “Our shower has been the biggest problem.” At first, Hoagland and his roommate were able to use

their shower, but issues with the plumbing presented themselves a few days into the semester. “The piping was actually flooding the room below us [when we used our shower],” Hoagland said. Because of the leak, they were told not to use their own shower and were given access to the shower in an empty room on the fourth floor, but only after going several days without access to any shower at all. “We have to go up two flights of stairs to [shower],”

see RICHMOND page 3

Brion Sanchious

From the hardwood to the gridiron Nick Kendall Staff Writer nkendall1@murraystate.edu

From highlight dunks to touchdown passes, former Murray State forward Brion Sanchious has made a smooth transition to football from basketball.

News Opinion Sports Features

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Sanchious played his first four years in the post for the Racers basketball team. He is now a wide receiver and tight end for the football team. The Pompano Beach, Florida, native has one year left of collegiate eligibility. He was given this extra

year after he tore his ACL on Jan. 15, 2016, during a game against Belmont and became redshirted for medical reasons. While he is new to the Racer football team, the sport itself is nothing new to Sanchious. “The transition’s been

great,” Sanchious said. “I played football in high school so I’ve always had a feel for the game but now as a receiver and tight end, I’m just trying to get to know more stuff in my position. I’m not mad about the limited plays

Police urge caution after sexual assault reported on campus

Murray State needs more parking

‘Clear the track’ Racer One gets new jockey

Alumni go viral with engagement photos

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Brion Sanchious celebrates a TD.

News

September 12, 2019

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Assault was reported at Roy Stewart S tadium after two subjects were involved in a physical altercation. Prosecution was declined.

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If you feel uneasy in a situation, do not ignore your instincts. You don’t owe anyone anything - back out of a situation with or without apologies.

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Terroristic threatening was reported at Elizabeth College after subject received threatening text messages. The investigation is still open.

A parked vehicle was struck by a vehicle that left the scene in the Faculty Hall parking lot.

Theft was reported at General Services after a device was stolen on Aug. 29 and later returned.

Menacing was reported in Regents College after subject imitated another person and caused fear of injury. The investigation is still open.

3:00PM

Theft was reported at Roy Stewart Stadium after a pair of sunglasses were taken on Sept. 5. The investigation is still open.

- Jamie Herring, chief of Murray State Police

department will begin an investigation. “The police conduct an interview of the victim, usually with an advocate from Lotus or the campus Sexual Assault Response Team,” Herring said. “If a sexual assault is recent, they will encourage the victim to get a physical examination at the hospital. Even if the victim does not want to prosecute, the police and advocates will work to provide the victim with health care options and resources to lead to recovery.” If students, faculty or staff have been involved in any kind of Title IX matter including sexual assaults, they can visit the Office of IDEA in Room 103 of Wells Hall or reach them at (270)809-3155.

Burglary was reported at the College Courts after subject unlawfully entered a residence and stole several items. The investigation remains open. Burglary was reported at Roy Stewart Stadium after food was taken from the concession stands. The investigation remains open.

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A student reported being sexually assaulted outside an academic building on campus on Sept. 8. The victim reported being sexually assaulted after meeting someone via a social media app. The incident was reported to the Murray State Police Department at 1:22 a.m., according to the timely warning. The Murray State Police Department is conducting an investigation on the matter. From Aug. 2018 until Sept. 2019, 13 sexual assaults or related incidents have been reported on campus, according to the Murray State University Crime and Fire Log. One in five women in college experiences sexual assault, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website. Jamie Herring, chief of police, said students, faculty and staff should take certain precautions to help ensure their safety on and off campus. “Insist on public first dates, especially with someone you only know through social media,” Herring said. “Create a safety plan with your friends when you go to social gatherings that includes code words. If you feel uneasy in a situation, do not ignore your instincts. You don’t owe anyone anything - back out of a situation with or without apologies. If you are in a dating relationship, have open, adult conversations about what you are willing to do and what you are not willing to do.” To promote safety on campus, all students, faculty and staff are required to take the Title IX quiz under Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972. Students must complete the quiz with a grade of 100 percent or they will have a hold on their account. The deadline to complete the quiz is Oct. 18. However, if one does experience sexual assault or a related incident, they should report it. Herring said reporting incidents is important, so the victim can access available resources as soon as possible. Not only is reporting important for the victim, but police investigations and possible prosecutions can help prevent others from being victimized.

Herring said victims can report sexual assault or related incidents in several ways. Victims can call the Murray State Police at (270)809-2222 or send a message via the LiveSafe app. Students, faculty and staff can download the LiveSafe app on their phones for free to access several safety features. Herring said students can share their location with their friends via the app. Police can also follow your location until you have made it to your destination safely. The Murray State Police can also be directly notified with the LiveSafe app. They can also report it to the Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity and Access, the Women’s Center, housing staff, student affairs or other campus security. If a victim chooses to report an incident to the Murray State Police, Herring said the

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Brock Kirk/The News

Daniella Tebib New Editor dtebib@murraystate.edu

Theft was reported at Roy Stewart Stadium after a backpack and musical instrument were stolen.

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Police urge caution after sexual assault reported on campus

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1:22AM

Rape and sodomy were reported on campus after unwanted sexual contact by an acquaintance occurred. The investigation is still open.

Police Beat is compiled with material from the Murray State Crime and Fire Log. Not all dispatched calls are listed. Colton Colglazier/The News

Correction: On Thursday, Sept. 5 The Murray State News misstated the date for the Education Abroad Fair, as well as the date for the 6th Annual Hutson Harvest Gala. Both of these events will be held on Thursday, Sept. 12. In addition, The Murray State News misstated the location for the funeral of Samantha Ratledge, which was held on Sept. 7 in Benton, Missouri. The News deeply regrets these errors.

News

September 12, 2019

RICHMOND From Page 1

Hoagland said. He believes the plumbing issues stem from a failure to inspect the original side of the building properly after the residential college was damaged. “It really does seem like it’s been a rushed job,” Hoagland said. Touney offered reassurance that the entire building has been thoroughly reviewed and inspected by campus and state authorities, and that a contingency plan for accommodations was in place had the building not been deemed ready by move-in day. Originally, maintenance staff wanted Hoagland and his roommate to move out of their current room on the second floor into the room they have access to on the fourth floor so the faulty piping could be fixed. Although his roommate has chosen to temporarily relocate to the fourth-floor room while maintenance workers perform repairs on their second-floor shower, Hoagland has chosen to stay in the room where he had already settled all of his belongings. “They warned us of an excess in dust while the housing people work on our shower and that it could be a hazard for sleeping,” Hoagland said. His air conditioner has proven to be problematic as

well. Described as turning on and off, he said the air conditioner in his room has been ineffective, despite attempts by facilities management to rectify the malfunction. “It’s gotten up to over 80 degrees in our room,” Hoagland said. Other residents have filed work orders for rooms that remain extremely cold. Although maintenance staff fixed his toilet in a timely manner, the problems with his air conditioner and shower are ongoing. For Hoagland, the move to New Richmond hasn’t necessarily been what he expected. “There seems to be a lot more [flaws] than I thought there was going to be,” Hoagland said. Because of the maintenance issues he has experienced, Hoagland is thinking about moving off campus next year. “It’s definitely been a negative experience,” Hoagland said. “I am strongly considering an apartment next year.” However, he does appreciate that the building is nice, despite the problems he has experienced with the appliances. The maintenance issues are not exclusive to the original wing of the building. Jacob Harris, an engineering physics major from Peewee Valley, Kentucky, noticed his furniture had significant wear and tear, including chips in the wood, broken door handles and a missing panel in his sink. Harris is a resident of the new-

Richard Thompson/The News Residents in James H. Richmond Residential College have been experiencing issues following the renovations.

ly-refurbished wing of the building. The issues that could be fixed have since been resolved. “The only recurring issue is the water pressure,” Harris said. He said the water temperature fluctuates between cold and scalding hot. There has also been rattling from a unit in the wall of his room that is loud enough to wake him up in

the middle of the night. Despite the issues, Harris’ overall experience has been a positive one. “It’s got a lot more space, and it’s a much nicer building [than the residential college he lived in previously],” Harris said. Touney said students who are experiencing issues in the

residential colleges should contact their residential advisor. “Our staff will work hard to complete all repairs as quickly as possible,” Touney said. “Our staff will continue to be as proactive as possible, such as checking each room prior to the start of the semester to identify potential needs and repairs.”

Students encouraged to apply for scholarships Daniella Tebib News Editor dtebib@murraystate.edu

The scholarship application for the 2020-21 academic year is now available for students. When applying for scholarships, students only have to fill out one application. Once students submit their application, they will be automatically matched with scholarships they are eligible for. Students can find the scholarship application on their MyGate account in the financial aid section. The University offers two types of scholarships: aca-

demic achievement and competitive. Academic achievement scholarships are only awarded to incoming freshman students at the time of admission. However, competitive scholarships can be awarded to all students. To qualify for these scholarships, students must complete the Murray State General Application each academic year. These scholarships are awarded after the application deadline, according to the website. However, before scholarships can be applied to students’ accounts, undergraduate students have to

file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid which opens on Oct. 1. “Based on recent University reports, a total of $117 million is awarded annually in financial aid and scholarships to Murray State students,” according to the press release. The University also offers to help students who are struggling to afford college after scholarship assistance has been provided. “As part of its core belief that no one should be denied an education because of financial need, the University also offers the Murray State Promise. Murray State will

provide scholarship assistance to help pay for tuition and mandatory fees if the student’s combined federal, state, institutional and private gift aid total is less than the cost of Murray State’s tuition [which is 12-15 hours],” according to the press release. On MyGate, there are links to search engines and external scholarships on the website. Each one is vetted to make sure it is free, legitimate and applies to students at Murray State. The list is updated weekly. President Bob Jackson said he hopes to bolster scholarships with a new initiative.

“We have started a new campaign and we will be announcing more details, goals very soon in regards to that,” Jackson said. “A big portion, maybe up to half will be directed to student scholarships and a heavy component will be need-based scholarships. There is a tremendous need today and we continue to see that.” The deadline for the Murray State General Application is Feb. 3, 2020 at 4:30 p.m. Students who have questions about the scholarship application can find the scholarship office’s contact information on TheNews.org.

News

September 12, 2019

Textbooks shift to digital copies Levi Brandenburg Contributing Writer lbrandenburg1@murraystate.edu

Textbook prices have decreased within the last few years as digital textbooks are becoming more popular. From 2017 to 2019, the average overall price of textbooks fell about 26 percent. The data, collected by the textbook price comparison website CampusBooks Inc., covered the prices of 500,000 student textbook purchases through its site from Aug. 2017 through Jan. 2019. Andrew Dowdy, assistant director of textbooks and general merchandise, said the University Bookstore has experienced a noticeable effect. “The bookstore has already noticed major changes in our operations as the industry shifts to a more digital format,” Dowdy said. “We have set up a program called Inclusive Access, which deploys digital materials to students through canvas, to embrace the change as we see how it financially benefits our students.” Dowdy said switching to digital copies has lowered prices. For example, the physical textbook for MGT 553 was $248 for students. However, through the Inclusive Access Program, it was only $54.10 for the e-book.

Kalea Anderson/The News

Kaitlyn Myers, senior from Marion, Kentucky, places a sticker in the category describing how much money she spent on textbooks this semester. Arthur Boston, scholarly communication librarian, set up a display in Waterfield Library to gauge how much money students have spent on textbooks this semester. “Colleagues of mine have used similar interactive displays in their libraries and it looked like the perfect tool to spark and share a similar con-

versation with our campus,” Boston said. “My intuition has been that our students are likely spending quite a bit on their textbooks, in line with national trends. This display puts that theory to the test.” Boston said he thinks this is an important topic because while textbooks serve their purpose as a learning tool,

they can also be the source of some students’ financial distress. “Textbooks should be the last thing that causes a student to decide where to enroll or whether or not to eat,” Boston said. “To be clear: I don’t think the fault lies with our bookstore; if blame is to go anywhere, we might start with

certain book publishers for exploiting captive markets.” Some students said they have noticed the increased pressure on publishers, though few are noticing its benefits. “I spent $350 on textbooks for this semester alone,” April Keel, freshman from Cadiz, Kentucky, said. “The textbooks will be used once and then I’ll likely never use them again. Some professors don’t even use the textbooks they require you to buy for their class.” Antje Gamble, assistant professor of art history, said she does not require textbooks unless students are required to read them. “I do my best to keep textbook prices in my classes at or below $50 if possible,” Gamble said. “I try to balance the quality of the book to the cost. Sometimes the best book goes over my limit, but I don’t make choices to require expensive textbooks lightly.” The News ran a poll on Facebook and Twitter asking students if their professors required textbooks for this semester. On the Facebook poll, 159 people responded. 55 percent voted yes, but 45 percent voted no. The Twitter poll showed similar results with 40 responses. 53 percent voted yes, while 47 percent voted no.

Law requires accommodations for pregnant women Breanna Harris Contributing Writer bharris17@murraystate.edu A new state law requires Murray State to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant faculty, staff and students. Gov. Matt Bevin signed Senate Bill 18, the Kentucky Pregnant Workers Act in late June, which expressly prohibits employment discrimination in relation to an employee’s pregnancy. Kentucky became the 25th state to pass this type of legislation. The new act amends the Kentucky Civil Rights Act as it relates to pregnancy by requiring employers with 15 or more employees to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, unless it would impose an undue hardship on the employer to do so. Murray State assists students who are pregnant by providing larger desks, rescheduling tests or exams, and excusing absences due to pregnancy or related conditions. “I do wish that there was parking for pregnant women,” Makenna Crowley, a junior from Princeton, Kentucky, said. “I am not bothered that much by parking a little ways

away from the buildings where my classes are right now, but I know that when I am eight months pregnant, it will not be nearly as easy to get around.” Under the KPWA, it’s illegal for an employer to fail to make reasonable arrangements for any employee with restrictions related to pregnancy, childbirth or a related medical condition who requests an accommodation. According to the law, those arrangements include but are not limited to: (1) the need for more frequent or longer breaks; (2) time off to recover from childbirth; (3) acquisition or modification of equipment; (4) appropriate seating; (5) temporary transfer to a less strenuous or less hazardous position; (6) job restructuring; (7) light duty; modified work schedule; (8) private space that is not a bathroom for expressing breast milk. “Murray State University has a reasonable accommodation process available to faculty, staff and students through the Office of Institutional Diversity Equity and Access, Shawn Touney, director of communication said. According to the U.S.

Department of Labor website, the University is required to provide a private place for employees to express breast milk. “A bathroom, even if private, is not a permissible location under the Act,” according to the website. The location must be a functional space for expressing breast milk. If the space is not dedicated entirely to the nursing mother’s use, it must be available when needed in order to meet the statutory requirement. “A space temporarily created or converted into a space for expressing milk or made available when needed by the nursing mother is sufficient provided that the space is shielded from view, and free from any intrusion from co-workers and the public,” according to the website. In January, prior to SB18 being signed into law, the Faculty and Staff Insurance and Benefits Committee recommended that University administration look into a suitable location for one or more lactation rooms on campus. The Faculty and Staff Insurance and Benefits Committee recommended that the University administration look into a suitable location for

Mackenzie O’Donley/The News

Professor Stephanie Anderson, who is expecting a son in December, teaches a journalism class. one or more lactation rooms on campus. A lactation room has been incorporated in the Blackburn Science Building renovations, Touney said. The Kentucky Pregnant Workers Act includes the first lactation accommodation in the state for covered Kentucky employers and defines a related medical condition to include lactation and

the need to express breast milk for a nursing child. Faculty, staff and students who would like to request accommodations that are related to pregnancy, childbirth or any related medical condition, can contact the Office of Institutional Diversity Equity and Access, which is located in 103 Wells Hall or (270) 809-3155.

Opinion

September 12, 2019

Murray State needs more parking Attempting to park on campus is close to impossible. The yellow zone does not have enough parking spaces for students, and there are not enough spots for faculty or commuters. Most parking around the residential side of campus is the yellow zone, which is open to residents living in the north residential college complex and college courts.This is the parking pass that most students who live on campus purchase. Many incoming freshmen purchase the economy/purple zone and typically park at Roy Stewart Stadium. It is also valid in Hamilton Field, Hamilton North, Sorority Suites, and West Farm. Freshmen, who typically purchase the economy/purple pass, are skipping straight to yellow. The reasoning for this is completely understandble. It is a hassle to walk to the stadium, especially in poor weather, a common occurrence in Murray. To add to the lack of parking space, there is an increase in the number of freshmen. As great as high enrollment is, it serves as a parking nightmare when Murray State doesn’t offer additional spaces. Students with yellow zone permits are in a constant battle for convenient parking.

Cadense Utterback

Other complaints have been brought forward by students who leave for the weekend. When they return Sunday night, there is never parking. Although they have purchased a yellow permit, they are forced to park at the stadium. In terms of commuter parking, space is running out. The red zone is for commuters and Regents/White residents. When students who live off campus commute, they are often late to class due to the lack of spaces. Both red and yellow passes are $200. People do not want to pay these hefty prices when

they are forced to park in different zones because of the lack of spots. Parking does have upsides, though. Medically inhibited individuals and those with both permanent and temporary medical conditions that constrict their movement are given access to the handicapped parking spots. With a doctor’s note, those who are affected by these conditions can be given different parking permits for however long they need them. However, this doesn’t cover as many medical conditions as it should. Pregnant students and faculty

also have no aid with parking. Complaints have been brough forward that pregnant faculty and students do not have parking spaces that are close to academic buildings. Coming to classes must be tiring enough, but being pregnant and walking long distances in 90-degree heat or over icy sidewalks amplifies the need for designated pregnancy parking. The parking office provides a great opportunity for parking offenders to pay it forward by bringing in non-perishable foods such as canned goods or jars of peanut butter instead of paying. People can do this only

once a semester for appealable citations, and it must be done within the first five days of the citation. However, students have consistently reported the unfairness of the parking police. When it comes to ticketing or citing people, especially students, they are infamously intolerable. Students have reported their cars being fined twice within the same hour. In this instance, students cannot be informed in a timely manner to move their cars. Further, students should not be expected to be able to move their vehicles in such a short time frame. Complaints have been brought forward about delayed emails that inform students about fines. In these instances, students are not notified about the citation until the day after it was sent. They do not know they need to move their vehicle until they have already been fined again. Overall, Parking Services needs to communicate better with the campus community. The office does not give people enough forewarning to move their vehicle. We hear it all the time and we will continue to hear it until conditions improve. Murray State needs better parking.

The staff editorial is the majority opinion of The Murray State News Editorial Board. Megan Reynolds Daniella Tebib Claire Smith Gage Johnson Cady Stribling Editor-in-Chief News Editor Features Editor Sports Editor Opinion Editor mreynolds12@murraystate.edu dtebib@murraystate.edu csmith110@murraystate.edu gjohnson17@murraystate.edu cstribling1@murraystate.edu

Editorial Board

Bryce Anglin David Wallace Production Manager Chief Copy Editor zanglin@murraystate.edu dwallace15@murraystate.edu Kalea Anderson Elizabeth Erwin Chief Videographer Public Relations Manager kanderson29@murraystate.edu eerwin1@murraystate.edu

The News welcomes commentaries and letters to the editor. Submissions should be 600 words or less, and contributors should include phone numbers for verification. Please include hometown, classification and title or relationship to the University. The News reserves the right to edit for style, length and content. No anonymous contributions will be accepted. All contributions should be turned in by noon on Monday of each week via email to mreynolds12@murraystate.edu.

Connor Dame Brock Kirk Ad Sales Manager Photo Editor cdame2@murraystate.edu jkirk11@murraystate.edu John O’Neill Dr. Stephanie Anderson Online Manager Faculty Adviser joneill4@murraystate.edu sanderson37@murraystate.edu

Contributions to The News are the opinion of the author and not that of The Murray State News. The News is a designated public forum. Student editors have authority to make all content decisions without censorship or advance approval. The paper offers a hands-on learning environment for students interested in journalism. The campus press should be free from censorship and advance approval of copy and its editors should develop their editorial and news policies.

The News strives to be the University community’s source for information. Our goal is to present that information in a fair and unbiased manner and provide a free and open forum for expression and debate. The News is prepared and edited by students and is an official publication of Murray State University. The first copy is free. Additional copies are available for 25 cents at 111 Wilson Hall.

Sports

September 12, 2019

Photo courtesy of Racer Athletics

Murray State men’s golf team won its third straight MSU Invitational on Tuesday, Sep. 10 at Miller Memorial Golf Course.

Murray State men’s golf team wins third straight MSU Invitational Tournament Simon Elfrink Contributing Writer selfrink@murraystate.edu The Murray State men’s golf team took first place for the third year in a row at the Murray State Invitational on Tuesday, Sept. 9. The two-day competition featured several schools, such as the University of Wisconsin Green Bay, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, the University of Southern Indiana, Tennessee State University, Eastern Illinois University, the

BRION From Page 1

I get but I just go in and show them all that I can do.” Assistant Coach Alex Suber worked with Sanchious for most of the spring practices and has liked what he’s seen. “He’s a Florida guy with football experience from high school,” Suber said. “It’s not like he is just a basketball guy coming out here and just having some fun. He understands football, he has a good grasp on the game, he’s got ball skills and he can run.“ Head Coach Mitch Stewart has incorporated Sanchious slowly into the flow of Racer football and is pleased with his efforts thus far. Stewart’s only complaint about Sanchious came after the Aug. 29 victory over Pikeville when he received an unsportsmanlike conduct call after catching a nine-yard pass for a touchdown. “I told Brion, ‘I know it’s your first touchdown catch and that’s a big moment,’” Stewart said. “‘But if you’re gonna go dunk on a field goal if you’re six foot seven, you at least better make it over

University of Evansville, John A. Logan College, Alabama A&M University, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Bethel University and Chicago State University. They also took on OVC competitors UT Martin and Eastern Illinois University. Head Coach Eddie Hunt was thrilled with his team’s performance. “We played exceptionally well,” Hunt said. “We held on and won by four shots, and that’s what you like to see. We had a couple players step up the bar.’” Sanchious admits that he shouldn’t have done anything that would penalize the team but he insists that he wanted to hit the goalpost. “I actually meant to hit the goalpost,” Sanchious said. “There were people behind the goalpost so I didn’t want to throw it over and hit one of them. I knew the ref was going to call a flag so I was like ‘I’m going to act like I’m not trying to touch it and just throw it against the goalpost,’ but you know, I still got a flag.” High school gave Sanchious the fundamentals of football. Stewart believes that his 6-foot-7-inch, 245-pound frame will create a problem for anyone who faces him. “He presents some matchup problems,” Stewart said. “We’re going to try to expose that the best we can in those situations. We’re going to continue to look at ways to do that with him and get him more involved.” Sanchious gained nine yards for a touchdown on one catch during the Aug. 29 win over the University of Pikeville and seven yards on two catches on the Sept. 7 loss against the FBS No. 3-ranked University of Georgia Bulldogs.

and shoot some low numbers and it carried us to our win.” The Murray State team took first place, shooting an 830 as a team. Sophomore Dalton Bagwell paced the Racers with a score of 206, followed closely by junior Conner Coombs with a 208 and senior Austin Knight with a 209. Senior Avery Edwards was just behind with a score of 213, and senior Justin Wendling finished shooting a 224. The Murray State Invitational awards the top five players the title of “all-tournament.”

This year, both Dalton Bagwell and Connor Coombs represented the Racers on the All Tournament Team. “They both played really solid,” Hunt said. “Conner had a 68 today, which we really needed, and then Dalton shot a 65 yesterday, so as long as we get somebody shooting in those numbers, we’re going to be pretty good.” Hunt is excited for the season ahead with this group, saying they’re a consistently solid lineup that can shoot low numbers. He also knows that

they have some good upperclassmen leading the team in Knight and Edwards. “We got good senior leadership, also, with Avery and Austin,” Hunt said. “Both seniors have been here for four years and I think they’ll really have a great year. “ This week will be a busy one for the Racers, as they travel on Thursday, Sept. 12, to compete in the Eastern Kentucky Invitational, where plenty more OVC competitors will make an appearance.

Gage Johnson/The News

Brion Sanchious waits for the ball to be inbounded in the Racers 2019 NCAA Tournament game against Florida State.

Sports

September 12, 2019

‘Clear the Track’ Racer One gets new jockey Gage Johnson Sports Editor gjohnson17@murraystate.edu

Racer One running the track after each touchdown at home is synonymous with Murray State football, and it took one look to inspire senior Bailey Coffman to become a Racer One jockey. “We had gold rush where all the freshmen could come onto the field and I had a front row view of Racer One and the jockey running around the end of the track,” Bailey Coffman said. “The chills I got from watching the jockey at the game is one of the main reasons I wanted to become the Racer One Jockey. I knew from that point on that I wanted to be a part of this unique tradition that we have at Murray State.” Coffman has always had an affinity for horses. That brought her to Murray State to study Equine Business Management and join the equestrian program. “I was able to bring

my horse to school with me and be a part of the equestrian teams on campus,” Coffman said. “I loved the feeling of being on campus and the chances Murray allowed to further myself in the equine industry is what drew me to Murray State.” Through the equestrian program, Coffman discovered the opportunity to be the jockey for Racer One and jumped at the chance. “This opportunity allows me to representMurray State on and off campus,” Coffman said. “It is a huge honor that I have been given to continue the tradition that is important to both Murray State and the community. I will be able to take this experience with me long after I graduate from Murray and the memories are ones I will cherish forever.” It may seem they’re just racing around the track after each touchdown, there’s a lot more that goes into preparing for each game.

Coffman said hours before kickoff she and the Racer One team get him mentally prepared at the barn, then bathe him and relax with him. Then, it’s time for the big game. From kids coming to meet the horse and the infamous announcement of ‘Clear the Track!’ that Coffman loves so dearly, she says if anyone was interested in becoming a jockey in the future, that it’s a decision they wouldn’t regret. “I would tell them to go for it,” Coffman said. “This has given me the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and try something new. To not only be a part of this awesome tradition but to grow as a horsewoman has been amazing. I would not trade being the Racer One jockey and I cannot wait to see who gets to carry the tradition after this season.” Coffman and Racer One will take to the track against Morehead State at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sep. 21 at Cutchin Field.

Lauren Morgan/The News New Racer One jockey Bailey Coffman races around the track after a touchdown.

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Sports

September 12, 2019

Wheeler following pro golf dreams Simon Elfrink Contributing Writer selfrink@murraystate.edu

Former Murray State golfer Gabe Wheeler recently took another step toward his dream of being a golf professional. Early this August, Wheeler became the first person to win the West Kentucky Open as both an amateur and a professional golfer. For the second year in a row, the Murray State alumnus took home first place at the Open. It wasn’t the first time Wheeler

competed at the professional level; In fact, only weeks ago he competed in the Charlotte Open in North Carolina. “It was actually my first professional event away from home,” Wheeler said. “I got to learn firsthand what it really takes to succeed at the level I want to.” Relatively new to the professional scene, Wheeler said he’s still getting his feet wet in the process of becoming a professional. He admits he’s pleasantly surprised at his recent success. Wheeler said his dream has always been to live the life of a

professional golfer. Thanks to the hard work and experiences behind him, that has finally begun to come true. “I’ve played in many tournaments and traveled all around the country so far,” Wheeler said. “It’s been great. I’ve learned a lot already. I’ve played some good golf and competed against some of the best players in the world already.” Wheeler’s former coach, Eddie Hunt, recognizes the adversity Wheeler will face in the form of hundreds of competitors that are all campaigning for the same

goal. However, he expresses little to no concern regarding his former player’s continued prosperity. “I don’t think they’ll outwork him,” Hunt said, “It takes a lot of hard work and dedication, and Gabe’s got that.” Coach Hunt described what it was like to watch the young man come up in this years as a Racer. “He played really well as a freshman,” Hunt said. “He made the All-Newcomer team that year. Gabe was the type of player you want to recruit because he really works at his game. If you want to

label someone as a student-athlete, there’s Gabe.” Wheeler looks back on his days at Murray State with a lot of fond memories. He reiterated his appreciation to the University for making him a better golfer. “I told Coach Hunt early on golf was going to be a long-term thing for me,” Wheeler said. “I was playing golf at Murray to use as kind of a stepping stone towards playing professionally. I just really appreciate Murray State giving me the opportunity to play. The University’s a big reason for what I’m doing.”

Photo courtesy of Racer Athletics

Gabe Wheeler follows through his swing and watches his ball sail through the air.

THE MURRAY STATE NEWS ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Against Georgia Green earned 101 yards on ﬁve catches. His longest reception was a 60-yard touchdown. The former Florida Gator earned OVC Newcomer of the Week for his efforts.

DaQuon Green Junior Wide Receiver Football

Gage Johnson/The News

September 12, 2019

Sports

Mackenzie O’Donley/The News

Sophomore cornerback Quinaz Turner and freshman linebacker Larry Corbin lead the Murray State football team onto the field for its season opener against Pikeville.

Racers hit the road for second FBS game Nick Kendall Staff Writer nkendall1@murraystate.edu

Murray State football will head north to the Glass Bowl for a first-time matchup against the University of Toledo Rockets. The Racers are coming off a 63-17 defeat against the University of Georgia Bulldogs. Head Coach Mitch Stewart liked the effort his team showed and used the loss as a preparation tool for the remaining games of the season. “Now we have a high standard to which we can hold the guys account-

able from here on out,” Stewart said. “Doesn’t matter the opponent or where we were playing them at. The circumstances are that we can always go back to a couple plays and yesterday I wound up tagging 30 to 35 plays where there was some tremendous effort shown on the field.” The Rockets are also coming off a 38-24 loss at the hands of the University of Kentucky Wildcats. Senior quarterback Mitchell Guadagni had 122 yards on 7-for-12 passing, but left the game with a concussion after a late hit. It’s not clear yet if Guadagni will play Saturday.

Toledo Head Coach Jason Candle hates that his quarterback was injured but acknowledges that Guadagni did what he was supposed to. “He did exactly what he’s coached to do, he slid,” Candle said. “The guy hit him and he got a 15-yard penalty for it and got thrown out of the game. He got hurt. I can’t get mad at him for doing what’s he’s coached to do, trying to protect himself.” This game will be the home opener for the Rockets, who are 24-2 all-time against FCS opponents. They went 7-6 last season and finished second in the

Mid-American Conference with a 5-3 record. Stewart knows the game against the predicted MAC champions won’t be easy. “This is another really, really, really good opponent,” Stewart said. “Their skill players are tremendous. Offensively and defensively, [they] are some of the best, most dynamic skill players I’ve seen.” The kick-off against the Rockets is at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 14, and can be watched on ESPN 3 or listened to on the radio on Froggy 103.7 FM.

Pumpkin Spice is back 1201 Payne Street Murray 270.761.4800 @future_grounds on Instagram

Features

Saturday, Sept. 14: Cinema International

@ 7:30 p.m. “Westwind” in Curris Center Theatre

Doggie Day Spa

@ 10 a.m. at Carmen Animal Health Center

Tuesday, Sept. 17: Constitution Day

@ 8:30 a.m. in Curris Center Theatre

Tinsel Town Tuesday

@ 7 p.m. in Curris Center Theatre

Photo Courtesy of Murray State Fencing Club Facebook Page

Behind the mask Students bring back the art of fencing Ciara Benham Staff Writer cbenham@murraystate.edu

Behind the masks, Murray State students are keeping the lost art of fencing alive and well on campus. The Murray State University Fencing Club is made up of students and alumni of varying experience levels (starting with no experience). The club meets twice a week to practice the 13th-century combat sport. “Like any sports practice, a typical fencing practice begins with a warm-up routine,” Abby Tillotson, senior, said. “We practice footwork, blade work drills, bouts and a stretching routine at the end. Throughout, we discuss strategy and the mental aspect of the sport. It is often compared to a sport of ‘physical chess.’” Tillotson originally joined the fencing club to fulfill the requirement of her freshman transitions class to attend a certain number of club events. She attended a meeting after seeing some banners advertising the club. “I thought it would be fun to try,” Tillotson said.

September 12, 2019

“Little did I know, that one decision would define my entire college experience.” While fencing is still an Olympic event, the art doesn’t get the recognition it once did. Shelby Skaufel, secretary of the fencing club, said Murray State does not recognize fencing as a sport, like football or baseball, but only as a club. “Fencing is the only sport that I have tried, that I actually enjoy and like participating in,” Skaufel said. “We just are not supported or have the visibility or opportunities to grow like the officially recognized University sports.” Vice President of the fencing club, James West, said the applications of fencing go beyond the sport. “One of the best lessons for everyday life in fencing is that everything has a solution,” West said. “While fencing, there will often be opponents who approach the sport in a way you have never seen and don’t know how to approach. There is always an answer, though. You may have to think outside the box, but there is never a situation where it

is impossible to win.” The members of the club all have a common passion for practicing and sharing the art of fencing. Through the club, the members have gained experiences and friendships they will cherish for a lifetime. “We support each other and help each other get better,” Skaufel said. “Anything that happens in our lives, in or out of the fencing room, we are there for each other through it. We are friends, and we support each other. I have truly become friends with the people in the fencing club.” The sense of community that comes along with the sport is shared by many of its members. The club meets every Monday and Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the Carr Health Building in Room 209 and is always looking to welcome new members. “By joining the Murray State Fencing Club, members do not only gain the skills of a new sport, but they also gain a family,” Tillotson said. “The fencing club gave me a place to belong when I didn’t fit in anywhere else. It has allowed me to become the best version of me.”

Tennis Club at Purcell Tennis Courts @ 5:45-7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 18: Spanish Conversation Table @ 3 p.m. Waterfield Library Gallery

Mallet Music Concert

@ 7:30 p.m. Old Fine Arts 2023

Thursday, Sept. 19: German Coffee Table

@ 3:30-4:30 p.m. Collins Industry and Technology Center (206)

Cinema International

@ 7:30 p.m. “The Architects” - Barkley Room of Curris Center

Using Our In-Print Voices: Confronting Gender Based Barriers in Academic Writing

@ 3:30 p.m. in the Engineering and Physics Building

Smith-Johnson History and Genealogy Room Dedication Ceremony

@ 4:00 p.m. in Pogue Special Collections Library

If you would like to see your event featured in the Calendar of Events- email the features editor at csmith110@murraystate.edu.

Colton Colglazier/The News

Features

September 12, 2019

Photos courtesy of Madison Moxley

Madison Moxley and Mason Whitis announced their engagement with an 80s inspired photoshoot that celebrated the couple’s sense of humor.

Alumni go viral with engagement photos Claire Smith Features Editor csmith110@murraystate.edu

One Murray State couple took a different approach to their engagement photos--an ‘80s-style throwback to what defines their relationship. Madison Moxley and Mason Whitis are graduates of Murray State, and in the last couple weeks their engagement photos went viral. The couple got engaged in Louisville on Aug. 31 and have been together for over two years. “I was snapping a pic of the sunset,” Moxley said. “When I turned to show him, he was down on one knee. He had tears in his eyes saying that he had never been so sure about anything. Of course I said yes, and we hugged and

cried together.” As soon as they got engaged they started planning their engagement photos. “Mason just really loves that aesthetic,” Moxley said. “Like cringe-dad ‘80s style.” Moxley is a comedian and wanted the photos to reflect that. The couple went through several ideas before deciding on the ‘80s aesthetic. “We just thought that it represented our relationship; doing a normal shoot would’ve never been us,” Whitis said. “We have a lot of humor between us and it was fitting.” The couple took their photos at JCPenney, which was “the icing on the cake.” The day after the couple posted the photos to Facebook, Moxley unplugged for a while to enjoy a trip to Mammoth Cave.

“I left my phone in the car so we could enjoy our tour, and two hours later when we got back the photos had over 6,000 shares,” Moxley said. Moxley has been working in social media for three years, but had never seen a post grow this quickly. That was when she realized their photoshoot was bigger than the couple ever expected. “I’m not as up to date on social media, so I didn’t really think 6,000 shares was a big deal,” Whitis said. “When Madison said that’s how many we had I was just kind of like, ‘Okay? And?’ I honestly had no idea how big of a deal that many shares was, and I’m still shocked every time I look at the number of shares. I think it’s at 16,000 shares now, and that’s insane to me.” Life for the couple hasn’t

changed, but Moxley now schedules interviews with the press during her lunch break. “We knew it was huge when HuffPost did their piece over us,” Moxley said. “It’s something I always wanted to happen, and now that it’s happening it’s so incredibly surreal.” Their friends and families are supportive. “My dad is a funny guy, and as soon as he saw the pictures he had to put his head on the kitchen counter and laugh,” Whitis said. “I don’t think he really believed we did the photos. My parents think it’s crazy, my sister has people coming up to her with pictures asking, ‘Is this your brother?’ They’re very excited for us.” While Whitis said his life has remained much the same, he’s

supportive of Moxley’s career and is “riding the wave” with her. “I definitely gained some clout, and my boss thinks I’m cool,” Moxley said. “I really don’t let it get to my head. I know with internet fame it comes and it goes, but right now I’m just trying to capitalize and hope it helps me with my comedy career.” Moxley teased that the couple is working on something they legally can’t talk about at the moment. The photos made it up the corporate chain and JCPenney is gifting the couple an early wedding present. “Madison used to work there in high school and got fired, so it’s definitely gone full circle for her,” Whitis said. “We’re excited to see what the gift is.”

On-campus event brings nonprofits together Grant Dillard Staff Writer gdillard@murraystate.edu

The Nonprofit Leadership Studies program at Murray State hosted several nonprofit organizations at a free on-campus event on Sept. 9. Many nonprofit representatives presented information about their organizations and goals to students, along with opportunities to volunteer in the community. The event was a way for

nonprofits to recruit and raise visibility. One of the nonprofits in attendance was the Humane Society of Calloway County, whose mission is preventing animal cruelty and promoting humane education. “The mission of this Society is to unite animals and people in the community to enrich their lives and to advocate for compassion and kindness toward animals and people everywhere,” their mission state-

ment said. Another nonprofit represented at the event was the Murray Senior Center. Established in 1972, their goals are to promote healthy living, nutrition and socialization for seniors. Dacia Barger, who graduated from Murray in 2006, was hired on as the services director in June 2017. “Our mission is to support the mature population in our community to improve their physical, mental and emo-

tional well-being so they can lead independent, fulfilling lives,” Barger said. Also in attendance was Murray Christian Fellowship, which provides support to Murray State students through Christian faith-based endeavors. Despite never going to Murray State before, member Mike Kerrick took a ministry position in 2008 that was sent out by the Association of College Ministries. “I did not start MCF,”

Kerrick said. “However, five students in 1968 were the catalyst for starting MCF.” Courtney Decker, physical education major from outside Chicago, said the event was insightful. “There were many nonprofit organizations that I have never heard of and [I] got a visual of what they had to offer,” Decker said. “Everyone was providing great information for what they were providing for the community.”

September 12, 2019

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