THE
1000 N. Dixie Ave. | Cookeville, TN | 38505
O
IN THIS ISSUE: 2 Calendar 2 News 3 Living 4 Opinion 5 Entertainment 6 Sports
Friday, October 31, 2014
RACLE Volume 99 | Issue 6 | Free in single copy
The primary news source of the Golden Eagles since 1924 Serving Tennessee Tech weekly during the fall and spring semesters
> Freshman student
> Purple Palooza gives fans a spooky first look at the 2014-2015 season.
>>Page 6
hosts annual Miss Fabulous Pageant for special needs children.
>>Page 3
Advisement week starts Monday for spring semester SHELBEY ASHBURN Beat Reporter Advisement week will be in full swing starting Monday, Nov. 3. Students will have the opportunity to meet with their advisers to schedule potential classes for Spring 2015 and discuss other matters involving courses, schedules and registration times. Each student will have an assigned time to individually meet with their adviser
throughout the week to determine the best course options to take for their specific major and college status. “Not everyone knows what they want to take, and some freshmen have yet to declare a major,” said Mackenzie Allen, freshman molecular and cell biology major. “I believe that having an adviser to help you, especially your freshman year, is important.” Advisers and professors will also be preparing to return emails from many students who won’t be granted access into a class due
to major and course restrictions. “I usually tell students to contact the department related to the course they are trying to get into,” said Brenda Wilson, associate professor of communication and adviser. “I also recommend checking the online catalog to view prerequisites.” Restrictions may not be the only challenge faced during advisement week. Many classes will be closed within the first day of registration due to limited availability and senior prioritizing.
“I’ve tried to register for required classes that become completely full within the first day of registration,” said Kim Biggs, junior communication major. “It’s very stressful because you have to go through a lot of steps in hopes to get a permit.” Students can find their adviser by going to Eagle Online in the “students” tab and then by selecting “registration” and “view banner ID.”
>>Spring S.O.L.O. Concert
Juicy J voted as top pick for 2015 S.O.L.O. rap concert ADAM WEBB Staff Writer & TYLER RANDOLPH Beat Reporter
Another voting took place yesterday for the annual spring S.O.L.O. concert, with Juicy J winning the vote and is slated to perform in the spring semester. This year’s nominees include some big names, as well as some upcoming stars from the rap/rhythm and blues genre.
The voter turnout for this concert was nearly double what it was for the fall S.O.L.O. concert, with over 4,000 votes. Juicy J came in first with 1,213 votes, Ludacris and 2 Chainz tied for second with 1,055 votes, Big Sean came in fourth with 552 votes, Chance the Rapper in fifth with 296 votes and 150 write-ins. Other artists, including Childish Gambino and Wiz Khalifa, were on the tentative band selection list, but those artists’ spring schedules did not coincide with the concert date.
“Starting with this concert, we really want to give the students the best show for their money, so we went to Childish Gambino and Wiz Khalifa, but it didn’t work because of their tours,” said Will Gabelman, Student Government Association treasurer. When asked about the likelihood of Juicy J coming to perform, SGA President Emily McDonald said, “Very likely, he’s touring in spring.”
Juicy J
1. Student Top Vote
Total votes in Thursday’s vote: 1213 (28.07%)
Jordan Michael Houston is from Memphis and is a founding member of the group, Three 6 Mafia. Some of his popular songs are “Bandz A Make Her Dance” and “Show Out.” Juicy J has 1.87 million followers on Twitter.
Ludacris
Total votes in Thursday’s vote: 1055 (24.42%)
Christopher Brian Bridges is from Atlanta and is the most accomplished artist in the group of nominees. Ludacris is an accomplished artist, entrepreneur and actor. Ludacris has had major success in music with hits like “Act A Fool” and “Last of a Dying Breed.” Ludacris has 9.81 million Twitter followers, the most of any of the other nominees for the SO.L.O. concert.
2. Tied for 2nd
2 Chainz
Total votes in Thursday’s vote: 1055 (24.42%)
Tauheed Epps, better known as 2 Chainz, has made quite a name for himself. The 37-year-old from College Park, Ga. signed a record deal with Def Jam Records in Feb. 2012 and released his album Based on a T.R.U. Story featuring three hit singles: “No Lie,” “Birthday Song” and “I’m Different.” 2 Chainz has 2.81 million followers on Twitter.
Big Sean
3. Big Number 3
Total votes in Thursday’s vote: 552 (12.77%)
Sean Michael Leonard Anderson, also known as Big Sean, is from Detroit and signed with Kanye West’s GOOD Music. Big Sean’s most popular songs are “My Last” and “Memories, Pt.2.” Big Sean has 5.98 million Twitter followers.
Chance The Rapper
4. No Chance
Total votes in Thursday’s vote: 296 (6.85%)
Chancelor Bennett was born in Chicago. Chance the Rapper began gaining credibility when he released his second mixtape, Acid Rap. His top songs are “Chain Smoker,” Nostalgia” and “Favorite Song.” He has 761 thousand followers on Twitter.
Write-In Votes
5. Write-In Votes
Total votes in Thursday’s vote: 150 (3.47%)
Among the 150 votes submitted aside from the 5 choices given for S.O.L.O. concert candidates, several options were submitted including Kendrick Lamar, Kid Cudi, Lacrae, Iggy Azalea, T-Pain, Eminem, Childish Gambino, and Justin Bieber.
Construction causes visitor parking to be converted into handicapped parking LUCAS MCCOY Beat Reporter
As of Oct. 27, the parking spaces on the east side of RUC, facing Dixie Avenue, have been converted into handicapped parking spaces. Before the new spots became available, only two designated handicap spots were available in the lot. Now, a new sign has an arrow pointing north, indicating all the spots in the lot are handicapped. This could possibly create some confusion among people who park there. The west parking lot behind RUC has been closed, as well. “It’s a temporary measure,” said Tony Nelson, interim police chief. “The new spaces are there to accommodate the people who park in the back.” Tonya Anderson, parking ticket officer, said people have parked without proper handicap credentials, and she has had to Read More Online
@
tntechoracle.com
write warnings to them, advising not to park there. “The chief told me not to write tickets today,” Anderson said Tuesday. “We don’t want to write somebody a ticket for something they weren’t aware of,” Nelson said. Anderson said they will either make all handicap parking spots visibly clear, or the spots will go back to the way they were before construction began. Ashley Walls, administrative associate with Career Services, said the new parking spaces and the closing of the west parking lot have not personally affected her chances of getting a parking spot. “Generally, what happens is we get an email from Mark Ochsenbein telling us about construction updates so we get a heads up,” Walls said. Attempts to contact Jack Butler, associate vice president of facilities, were not returned.
CONTACT:
Drake Fenlon | The Oracle NEW PARKING- Former visitor parking in front of the University center has been converted into handicapped parking until the Centennial Plaza construction is completed.
S.O.L.O. bill amended to eliminate set concert rotation By MATTHEW PHILLIPS Beat Reporter
The SGA has passed a bill that will allow students to vote on the genre for the S.O.L.O. concerts held every semester. Currently, the genre for the S.O.L.O. concert is determined by an ordered rotation. However, due to low attendance from Long certain genres, and the high cost to put on the concerts, the SGA decided to make a change. According to the bill, “The S.O.L.O. Concert Genre Rotation Removal Act of 2014,” “each semester immediately following the concert, a student wide vote will take place, allowing them to choose which genre they would like for the next show. The list of genres on the vote will include alternative, hiphop/rhythm and blues, pop, country, comedy and rock.” Once the students have selected a genre, it will not be on the voting list the following semester to prevent reoccurring genres. It will appear the next semester, thereafter. “I wrote this bill in hopes of improving the overall satisfaction of the S.O.L.O. concert by giving students an even greater impact on the decision, as to who comes to perform,” said Colin Long, senator for the College of Business, and author of the bill. “This is a student-funded event, so, simply put, I believe that the student body should get as much of an influence as possible, seeing that they are the ones paying for it.” However, the bill needed help getting passed in the senate. Needing a two-thirds vote of support from the present members, Vice President Daniel Tribble served as the tiebreaker. “Because the vote count was exactly two-thirds, I voted yes to eliminate any confusion as to if it needed exactly two-thirds, or more,” said Tribble. “But, I also voted yes because I agree with what Colin Long wanted to accomplish. By allowing students to vote for the genre, three things will occur: the students’ voice will be heard, attendance and ticket sales will increase and the student experience at Tech will increase in a positive way.” “It was extremely satisfying to see this bill passed, and I am sure that the S.O.L.O. concert will see only improvements now that this is in place.” The bill will take effect beginning the Spring 2015. Although, before it is officially enacted, a student wide vote will be needed to amend the SGA Constitution.
news - 931-372-3285 - oracle@tntech.edu | advertising - 931-372-3031 - ttuoracleads@gmail.com
facebook.com/tntechoracle
@tntechoracle
@tntechoracle
FRIDAY 67/43 °F
SATURDAY 73/48 °F
SUNDAY 74/48 °F
Page 2 || THE ORACLE || COOKEVILLE, TN
NEWS
Friday, October 31, 2014
tntechoracle.com Contact us: oracle@tntech.edu
>> Campus
SGA passes bills to change campus policies events On Tuesday night, the Student Government Association passed three new bills changing previous campus policies. The bills were supported by the majority of the senators in SGA and will pass on to higher University committees. By DANIELLE DAVIS Beat Reporter SGA Senators approved three new bills at this weeks meeting. “An Act to Implement a Weekend Restaurant Rotation” written by Senators Wes Demirjian and Reiley Collins, both of the College of Engeneering, was written because students have limited food options on the weekends. The bill states that currently there are only two food options for students on weekends, both in The Perch, which doesn’t provide students with many options. The bill proposes that instead of keeping the same two restaurants open every weekend, that there be
some variety to the two that are open. “The mark of a good bill is that you wonder why it wasn’t always in place” said Senator Russell of the College of Engineering. The bill received positive feedback from the majority of the senators. Some suggestions made from other Senators to better accommodate students were to try to keep the marketplace and recreation area in The Perch open for students, and Russell to try to have on restaurant open in The Perch and one open in
Swoops. The second bill passed by SGA was “An Act to Add Photographs to TTU Voter Services 2014.” Written by Senator Miranda Stoltz, College of Arts and Sciences, and sponsored by Senator Carolyn Huppmann, College of Interdisciplinary Studies, the bill is meant to help students who want to vote but don’t really know the candidates by name “You could see someone around campus that is running for homecoming and really want to vote for them, but not know their name,” said Huppmann. “It could also help with the SOLO votes, you could recognize a CD cover, but not know the name of the artist”
This bill would put pictures with the name of candidates for homecoming, SOLO artists, and SGA elections. Adding pictures to the names could allow students to vote who wouldn’t because they didn’t know the candidates names Huppmann or avoid the possible confusion of voting for the wrong person. The final bill passed this week was “An Act to Ban Obtrusive Paint form Campus Streets and Walkways.” After seeing glaring permanent spray paint on the main quad,
Senator Drake Fenlon, College of Arts and Sciences, wrote this bill to prevent future organizations and events from being able to use unnecessary permanent paint on campus. The bill will have no effect on the chalk drawings that some organizations do to promote their events. Now that these bills have passed the SGA Senate, they still need approval from the SGA president and the SGA Advisor. If approved by both the President and the SGA advisor, the bill is sent to a University Committee for approval. If the committee approves it, they then send to the Administrative Council Committee for final approval.
Habitat for Humanity to host Cooking on the Square By KIM BIGGS Asst. Managing Editor Putnam County Habitat for Humanity’s annual event, Cooking on the Square, is planned to take place 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Oct. 31. A $20 ticket will buy a handcrafted clay bowl, an all-you-can-eat supply of Cajun dishes and a donation to Putnam County’s Habitat for Humanity. The event is located on 45 East Broad St. Each year, PCHFH hosts Cooking on the Square, aiming to raise money to fund the construction of a new Habitat home for families in need. In the past, Cooking on the Square has raised enough money to fund seven Habitat homes in the Putnam County area. In 2013, $45,000 was raised through Cooking on the Square. Volunteer Coordinator for PCHFH Amy Jennings is hopeful for this year’s outcome. “We hope to raise around $50,000 with this year’s Cooking on the Square,” said Jennings. “100 percent of the funds raised at Cooking on the Square will go to build a home for a family in need.” Over the past 18 years, Cooking on the Square
Follow on Twitter @TNTECHORACLE
has raised enough money to fund the construction of seven Habitat homes, said Jennings. The event will include over 75 volunteer groups cooking and serving food. Banks and local churches from the community are expected to volunteer, as well as 10 different clubs and organizations from Tennessee Tech University, said Jennings. Organizations such as Residential Life and TTU Habitat for Humanity Club student volunteers will help cook and serve chili, jambalaya, gumbo and red beans with rice. Assistant coordinator of Residential Life Lauren Johnson sees the potential Cooking on the Square has to offer the community. “Being a part of your local community is something that we have lost a lot in our culture,” said Johnson. “The local community building tight social networks within a small area is so important.” Tech’s Appalachian Center for Craft helped hand-make each bowl for Cooking on the Square. In September, the Bowl-A-Thon was held in order to create the bowls, according to pchabitat.org/ cookingonthesquare. TTU Habitat for Humanity Club partnered with the craft center to help over 300 elementary school students create the bowls.
Assistant Dean in the College of Education Julie Baker explained the club’s involvement with creating the bowls. “Those bowls will be part of this year’s Habitat (Cooking on the Square),” said Baker. “It was something the elementary students were excited about and our students were excited about. We also had a big group of our members go to the craft center to throw the bowls on the day of the Bowl-A-Thon.” According to PCHFH’s Facebook page, fast passes for Cooking on the Square are available to those interested. Potential buyers can purchase a fast pass for $20 at Progressive Savings Bank, Regions, Southeast Bank, First Volunteer Bank or the Habitat offices prior to the event. Activities for children will be a part of the event as well. A photo booth will be provided for children to take pictures with witches from the Victorian era, said Jennings. Over 2,000 people are expected to attend Cooking on the Square this year. “It’s a good thing all-around, people get a great lunch, a bowl to take home and the warm feeling that they helped someone in need at the same time,” said Jennings.
Art Spiegelman to speak on campus By DILLION JAMES Beat Reporter Tennessee Tech will be hosting a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and illustrator in Derryberry Hall Tuesday night. Art Spiegelman will be on campus to speak about the current state of comics and the importance of comics in today’s culture. Spiegelman’s lecture, “What the %@&*! Happened to Comics?” will focus on the history of comics and how the art has evolved into what it is perceived as presently. Tennessee Tech’s director of composition and professor of English, Anthony Baker, was “blown away” when he first read Spiegelman’s work. “I’d never seen anything like it (“Maus”); a comics-format Holocaust narrative with animal characters seemed radically rebel-
lious and ground-breaking,” said Baker. “His style sometimes visually refers to past comics artists such as Winsor McKay or George Herriman. Rather than having just one style, he adapts his style to suit his different projects.” Although “Maus” started out as a comic strip in a graphic magazine Spiegelman and his wife published, it became a graphic novel in 1991. “Maus” depicted Spiegelman’s father’s experiences during the Holocaust as a Polish Jew, his relationship with his father and the absence of his mother after she committed suicide when he was 20 years old. “While Spiegelman’s visual style in “Maus” seems sketchy and basic, his style in other works might be much more cartoonish or realistic,” Baker said. “About 10 years ago, I first taught “Maus”
in a summer American Literature course, and it was a giant hit with the students, and I loved teaching the visual components.” In 1992, “Maus” became the first graphic novel to win a Pulitzer Prize. Students may recognize Spiegelman from his appearance on the hit television series, “The Simpsons,” from a 2008 episode in which he played himself. Spiegelman’s lecture will take place Tuesday, Nov. 4 at 6:30 p.m. in the Derryberry Hall Auditorium, and it will be free and open to the public. This event is presented by the Center Stage series, which is funded by student fees with the goal to promote the fine arts and to broaden students’ understanding of different ideas and cultures.
@ tech October
31 All Day
Michael Aurbach sculpture exhibition Joan Derryberry Art Gallery
11:30 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Cooking on the Square 45 East Broad Street
3 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Women’s Soccer hosts Jacksonville State University Tennessee Tech University
7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Cumberland Quintet Concert Bryan Fine Arts Building, Wattenbarger Auditorium
November
1 All Day
Michael Aurbach sculpture exhibition Joan Derryberry Art Gallery
6 a.m. - 8 a.m.
Crossfit Competition for BCM Hyder Burks Ag Pavilion
1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Football hosts Eastern Illinois University Tucker Stadium
2
All Day
Michael Aurbach sculpture exhibition Joan Derryberry Art Gallery
3 p.m. - 5 p.m.
TTU Flute Choir and Studio Flute Recital Bryan Fine Arts Building, Wattenbarger Auditorium
3
All Day
Michael Aurbach sculpture exhibition Joan Derryberry Art Gallery
All Day
Advisement for Spring 2015 Tennessee Tech University
6 a.m. - 9 a.m.
Fentress County Soil Conservation Banquet RUC Multi-purpose Room
4
All Day
Michael Aurbach sculpture exhibition Joan Derryberry Art Gallery
All Day
Advisement for Spring 2015 Tennessee Tech University 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Art Spiegelman Derryberry Auditorium
5
All Day
Michael Aurbach sculpture exhibition Joan Derryberry Art Gallery
All Day
Advisement for Spring 2015 Tennessee Tech University
6
All Day
Michael Aurbach sculpture exhibition Joan Derryberry Art Gallery
All Day
Advisement for Spring 2015 Tennessee Tech University
5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Homecoming Pep Rally Memorial Gym
www.tntech.edu/calendar
Friday, October 31, 2014
COOKEVILLE, TN || THE ORACLE || Page 3
Features <<
LIVING
Miss Fabulous Pageant
FABULOUS - Right: Contestants of the 2013 Miss Fabulous receive awards for participation in the pageant. Above: A contestant from the Miss Fabulous Pageant showcases her attire to the crowd. Miss Fabulous Pageant
Fourth annual Miss Fabulous pageant to take place at Cookeville Community Center By REANNA YOUNG Beat Reporter The fourth annual Miss Fabulous pageant will take place at the Cookeville Community Center 10 a.m. Saturday. This pageant is for anyone and everyone with special needs. Founder Madison Hill is a fresh-
man majoring in pre-dental hygiene. “All my life I’ve been around people with special needs, and it occurred to me that they’re not put in the spotlight and don’t have as many opportunities as others,” said Hill. At age 15 and a sophomore at Cookeville high
school, Hill became involved in the “Peer Buddy Program,” where she worked with students with special needs. This allowed Hill to gain a better insight to the lack of opportunities they have. This is a pageant for boys and girls, men and women. Neither age nor gender is a deciding factor on who can
Cumberland Quintet to perform spooky Halloween concert for the first time in six years The Halloween-themed performance will include songs such as the “Addams Family” theme song and “Funeral March of Marionette.” By SARAH TATE Copy Editor The Cumberland Quintet will perform a Halloween concert today at 7:30 p.m. in the Bryan Fine Arts Building’s Wattenbarger Auditorium, marking the first time in six years the faculty woodwind group has put on a special theatrical event. “We’re very lucky to have [a woodwind quintet] because a lot of schools, especially our size, don’t have full-time faculty on double reeds,” said James Lotz, professor of music and the quintet’s bassoonist. According to Lotz, Wattenbarger will be decorated for Halloween, with a graveyard and spooky lighting. The concert will feature a variety of spooky music like the “Addams Family” theme and “Funeral March of a Marionette,” and fun songs like the Cantina Song from “Star Wars.” The Halloween concert will have plenty of music,
but it will be interactive with the audience as well. The audience is encouraged to come in costume, and a terror-filled contest will be held during the concert. “We have a bloodcurdling scream contest planned, which is always hilariously fun, because there’s always some really good screamers, and then there’s some funny screamers,” said Lotz. “They’re both good. They’re both entertaining.” Lotz will present the winner of the contest with a prize that guarantees a good scare. “Every time I do it, I have students really run away from me, and sometimes it’s like I’ll just see how far they’ll run and they’ve gone out the building,” said Lotz. According to Lotz, an inciting incident will cause the quintet to leave the stage, cuing the start of a short film showing what they’re up to and what chaos is in store. “It’s a combination of a lot of horror movie genres, and we’re just making fun of
them,” said Lotz. “I think the students just enjoy seeing us be kind of silly.” Lotz said it’s great to walk in Wattenbarger, where normally formal concerts are held, and see it decorated as a graveyard with smoke and dim lights. “I am looking forward most to seeing my professors cut loose and have a good time with what is considered a ‘job,’” said DeAnna Etchison, a junior music business major. “It’s great to see people enjoy what they do.” Etchison has attended quintet concerts since she was a freshman and said, as a musician, she aspires to the group’s expert level of performance. “It’s kind of nice to have a concert that’s non-serious, in a way, just silly and enjoyable,” said Lotz. “It’s just pure theatrical entertainment.” Other members of the quintet include professors of music Roger Martin, flute; William Woodworth, oboe; Wonkak Kim, clarinet; and Jeremy Hansen, horn.
enter; everyone is welcome. Hill said the youngest participant to ever participate was 16 months old and the oldest was 79 years old. Everyone is encouraged to come and celebrate. Everyone is a winner at the Miss Fabulous Pageant. Every girl gets a crown, sash and T-shirt; gift bags, a me-
dallion and a T-shirt are given to each male escort. The first pageant in 2010 included 31 women and 9 men, but the pageant has grown each year. Last year’s final count of participants included 80 females and 40 males. As of the deadline 2 weeks ago, there are over 120 participants in this year’s pageant.
“When we first started this four years ago, we never thought it would be as big as it is today. It’s amazing,” said Hill. “We’ve been overwhelmed and blown away by all of the support, volunteers and people willing to donate to help this cause.” The pageant is expected to be nothing less of Fabulous.
Dave Barnes to perform after football game this weekend PRESS RELEASE Some new wrinkles in the 98.5 FM Tailgate Park, discounted group tickets, free youth tickets and a free, postgame concert in the stadium are added features Saturday when Tennessee Tech hosts Faith, Family and Youth Day as the Golden Eagles host Eastern Illinois in a 1:30 p.m. OVC football game. Dave Barnes, an American musician/singer and Grammy Award nominated songwriter from Nashville, has released eight albums including two Christmas albums. His most recent album, Golden Days, was released early this year. He will be on stage inside Tucker Stadium following the game. Area organizations, including churches, are encouraged to take advantage of Tech’s group disount offers. Tickets are $3 each for groups of 25 to 49 people, and $2 each for groups ranging from 50 to 99. For any group of 100 or more, the ticket price is only $1 each. In addition, it’s Take A Kid To The Game Day, with a free youth ticket available for each paid adult ticket. For additional details on these ticket offers,
americansongwriter.com GOD GAVE ME YOU- Dave Barnes will perform in Tucker Stadium after the EIU match-up on Saturday night. The concert will be free to everyone in attendance. or to purchase tickets, please visit the Athletics Ticket Office in Eblen Center or call (931) 372-3940. The special features being added to the 98.5 Kiss FM Tailgate Park include face painting, balloon sculpting and a video game truck. Brushes and Balloons, which specializes in balloon sculpting and face painting will welcome all fans. Meanwhile, Rolling Video Games is a climate-controlled, customized, self-powered mobile video game theater. Both of these new additions are free, and will be operating from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Those features will join the lineup of activities that take place each week in the park, located just west of Tucker Stadium. The park will open at 10:30 a.m., with the Golden Eagle Walk scheduled for 11:15 a.m. The Golden Eagle Marching Band and Spirit Squad will also make their way through the Tailgate Park. To reserve space in the tailgate park, please contact the TTU Athletics Marketing Office at (931) 372-3937. Space is limited inside the park, but additional tailgate space is plentiful just outside the park.
The Oracle staff thanks you for your readership. Have a great weekend!
Chuckles with Cheeny
Created by: "Cheeny the great"
Page 4 || THE ORACLE || COOKEVILLE, TN
OPINION
Friday, October 31, 2014 Send letters to the editor to oracle@tntech.edu oracle@tntech.edu.. Include your name, email address and limit letters to 300 words. Anonymous letters are not accepted. Deadline for letters is 4 p.m. Tuesday. We reserve the right to edit grammar, length and clarity.
>> Think Free
Listening to Labels:
KIMMY MANNING Opinion Editor G ro w i n g up, she dreamed of first dates, hand holding and falling in love with a man who knew what he wanted — a man who saw her as a material object, his trophy and, most of all, his piece of meat. Oh wait. That’s not what she wanted. Why do people keep telling her this is what she should want and deserve? They call her a bitch. They call her a whore. They call her whatever they want because, frankly, they believe she is whatever they want. When I use “they,” I am conveying the slew of “musicians” who want to label women anything but human. We’ve heard that catchy song they sing, the one whose music brings a party to life. We’ve heard it so much that it goes in one ear and out the other: numb, thoughtless music. I swear we are listening to porn set to an attractive rhythm. Why is it we let these invasively degrading songs
play in our homes, our cars, our parties and our phones? What we may think is a separate thought is actually a powerful message becoming instilled in the hearts of our culture. On our current Billboard Hot 100 songs, five of the top 10 songs feature music videos in which half-naked girls are objectifying themselves. Another typical portrayal in these videos is the domination of the male over the females and their animalistic responses to them. They see these smart, beautifully individual women as meat. To bring this issue to a relevant song, we will study the No. 7 song “Animals” by Maroon 5. In this track, lead singer Adam Levine says the words, “Baby, I’m preying on you tonight — hunt you down, eat you alive — just like animals.” Wait — did he say hunt her down? As far as I know, humans do not hunt down other humans unless they want to kill them or do anything else inhumane to them. To hunt is to treat with disregard. You would not hunt down a deer you loved, respected and wanted to keep around forever, right? Why would we ever use the words “hunt you down — eat you alive” unless we
Courtesy of FemInspire
NAME CALLING- When a source attempts to elicit feelings of inferiority or remorse when attacking a woman’s perceived or actual sexual behavior or feelings, this is slut-shaming. Sources might include friends of any gender, family members, other respected adults, classmates, coworkers, but especially pop-culture or the media. saw someone as a commodity, a detached being? This music is what we thoughtlessly clamor in and sing without understanding the notion it projects. Another popular song at No. 6 on the charts is “Don’t Tell ‘Em,” by Jeremih, where he says, “Body like the summer, f--- it like no other — don’t you tell ‘em what we do.”
Forgive me if I’m wrong, but why is this boy not going to “tell me what he do?” It pains me just to write that ungrammatical sentence. The act of love isn’t out of secrecy, and it sure isn’t about belittling your mate. The second problem here is he freely loves to brag on how he likes to f--- it. Emphasis on “it.” Whoever this girl is, the love they shared still isn’t enough
FAREWELL - In a popular trending YouTube video created by BuzzFeed, there is a video reciting print’s toast to “retirement.” They joke about how it is not dying, but taking a break. It’s a sarcastic joke as to how involved print is in our day to day. To view this video, visit YouTube and look up “Print Is Not Dead.”
Abdula | ABC News
Courtesy of BuzzFeed YouTube
If you are able to read this: KIM BIGGS Asst. Managing Editor
Sometimes, I wonder if I will have a job in the next five years. That is a thought more frightening than the most terrifying haunted house around. As a journalism student, there is a constant nagging, ever-present question. Is print dying? Will my craft ever cease to exist, becoming another tombstone in one of the many decorated graveyards that spring up around this time every year? The obvious answer for those techsavvy, electronic-embracing enthusiasts is yes. Print is dying a slow painful death, and writers and journalists alike have to watch as their trade takes its last breath. But what
THE
if they’re wrong? I won’t go as far to say print is making a victorious comeback, but I will say this form of media is seeing a metamorphosis, if you will. Naturally, questions about the next generation’s youth being so technologically inclined seem to be a common talking point when this touchy subject is approached, but I’m doubtful this argument has validity. Recent studies have found 62 percent of young readers ranging from 16 to 24 years old prefer printed books to electronic reading devices. Reasons for favoring these products varied from wanting to hold the physical product to selling it after use. However, one apparent argument remains.
ORACLE
Est. 1924. Weekly. Student Operated. Award-winning.
Tennessee Tech University TTU Box 5072 Cookeville, TN 38505
Managing Editor - DRAKE FENLON Asst. Managing Editor - KIM BIGGS Business Manager - KATE SHELTON Copy Editor - SARAH TATE Opinion Editor - KIMMY MANNING Sports Editor - SHEA HAILE Asst. Sports Editor - JORDAN PACE Entertainment Editor - JAKE THREET Entertainment Critic - HANNAH BENJAMIN Web Editor - DAVE MCMINN Staff Writer - ADAM WEBB Sales Assistant - ELIZABETH DEWAR Social Media Manager - PHILLIP GANT Faculty Adviser - JON EZELL
Let’s stop letting the media objectify us
Newspaper production has decreased and the e-reader and tablet-based market has skyrocketed. Let’s face it: daily newspapers can’t compete with the speed and availability of the Internet. That’s true, and I acknowledge that. Though on the other hand, it is absurd to say that print is already dead, or will die, in the next 20 years. Here’s why. There is something about printed material that makes it seem more official, reliable, and true. In printed works, I never have to be wary of the distracting pop-up ads or worry about the imminent danger of a lurking computer virus. Forbes magazine addresses this issue saying, “Consumers are more engaged when reading printed material, unlike websites,
I may have a job after college which are often skimmed in as little as a 15 second visit. “ I simply relax and read the words as they develop into a story. Reading a physical, paper book gives readers a more emotional attachment. The stories become tangible and genuine when the printed words spring off the paper, capturing the attention of anyone patient enough to read a screen that’s not electronic. Yes, print is changing, and yes, printed works have decreased in number. But by no means is print media a dying art. Print is NOT dead. Kim Biggs is a junior in Communcation with a concentration in Public Relations. She can be reached at kdbiggs42@students.tntech.edu
CONTACT US
VOICE YOUR OPINION
Advertising (931) 372-3031
Opinion (931) 372-3285
ttuoracleads@gmail.com
The Oracle encourages readers to write letters and commentaries on topics of interest. A few guidelines:
Newsroom (931) 372-3285 oracle@tntech.edu
FIND AN ERROR? Contact the Managing Editor Drake Fenlon ddfenlon42@students.tntech.edu
(931) 372-3285 Thanks for reading The Oracle Read more @ tntechoracle.com
kemanning42@students.tntech.edu
1. Letters should not exceed 300 words. Commentaries should be around 500 words and include a picture of the writer.
for her to be called by her first name. As much as this sexually biased culture lessens the importance of valuing a woman, a few people are making strides to be original and make music that chooses to obliterate inequality. The top two songs in the nation right now are blaring out self-respect and both happen to be sung by headstrong,
independent women. “All About That Bass” by Meghan Trainor and “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift have declared war against the fraternizing of women in their own ways. Trainor exemplifies the idea that what the media, boys and other popular songs tell us are not who we are or what everyone wants. Preach! In Swift’s song, she actually mimics the short-short wearing, sleazy women who appear in music videos — to prove a point it’s not a mold we should be fitting in. I have respect for the two of them for the fact that they get it. She is not a commodity, a slave or a piece of meat to chase. She wants selfless love, equal respect and a man who is just as bothered by what’s blaring on the radio as she is. She wants to know that no matter how many times people put a label on her, she is to be without them. For all the time we spend listening to the music that tears us down, let’s spend time building others up. Let’s stand up for She. Kimmy Manning is a senior in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations She can be reached at kemanning42@students.tntech.edu
Letter to the Editor Confusion is quite the disease plaguing the discussion of the proposed Amendment 1 to the Brown Tennessee State Constitution. I hope to add some clarity by responding to the statement you made recently regarding Amendment 1. You and many others have stated that Amendment 1 gives the government the ability to define life and intercede on person decisions. This is far from the truth. 1) Because of Roe. V. Wade the government both State and Federal cannot intercede and stop abortions from occurring. 2) Because of that the Government cannot define life beginning at conception or any other part of pregnancy because of such a Supreme Court ruling. Definitions in themselves can be relative. I can define life as beginning at conception. That doesn’t mean others will adopt it. The wording of Amendment 1 doesn’t define life that way either. The only way the State government would be able to be involved after the proposed Amendment passed, would be putting down health inspections on abortion facilities (which don’t exist at the moment), enforce 48 hour waiting periods before the procedure and enforce parental consent for underage girls. None of
these laws seem to me as the government infringing on someone’s ability to choose whether or not to get an abortion. 3) A good example of similar laws is the seatbelt law. It seems to me that people are in control of protecting themselves. It’s my choice as to whether or not to put on a seatbelt. But the state government says I have to or I will be fined, even though it is my own life. Will anyone stand up and say the government is interfering with my decisions? Maybe. But in the end the law is to enforce the common good. I think it is the same with Amendment 1. Tennesseans cannot stop abortion by any means, the Amendment cannot prevent someone from getting an abortion. Congress, if the amendment passes, can only pass laws that either place limits, or add further protections. With that being said it sounds a lot more like the Amendment appeases both sides. It essentially put the state of TN on the same level as the Feds and protects women’s health. Just looking at some photos online of an abortion clinic and the tools they use, it seems really gross to me that they don’t have to pass health checks. Justin Brown jbsartstudio@gmail.com
2. Originality is required. 5. The Oracle reserves Plagiarized works will not the right to edit for style, be considered. grammar, length and clarity. 3. For verification, letters and commentaries MUST 6. Submissions must be include your name, e-mail received by 4 p.m. on address, home town and Tuesday. classification or title. 6. Your thoughts are free. 4. Letters may not run Think often, think free. in every edition due to space.
News content for The Oracle is provided by the Journalism 2220, Journalism 4820 and Journalism 4930 classes. Journalism 3370 provides a majority of the photographs used.
DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily reflect those of Tennessee Tech University’s employees or of its administration.
COOKEVILLE, TN || THE ORACLE || Page 5
Friday, October 31, 2014
Reviews <<
ENTERTAINMENT
DC vs. Marvel: it’s coming “1989” catchy, lyrics suffer
By JAKE THREET Entertainment Editor
By ADAM WEBB Staff Writer
If you plan on going to the movies in the next six years, prepare to be bombarded by superhero films. After DC Comics, in partnership with Warner Bros., announced its lineup for the next few years regarding their film universe, Marvel quickly matched their “Justice League” and raised them two “Avengers: Infinity War” films. Starting next year, at least three superhero films will hit the big screen every year. When both announcements were made, my head was spinning from excitement, especially for Marvel. They have put together a string of hit films beginning back in 2008; they’re on top of their game. DC on the other hand, I’m still very nervous when it comes to their film universe. This new phase, beginning with 2013’s “Man of Steel,” which I was very pleased with minus a couple of things, got off to a great start. In time, we’ll know for sure just how well DC is going to stack up compared to Marvel. Warner Bros. and Marvel Studios are not the only ones bringing superheroes to the big screen. Columbia Pictures and 20th Century Fox are adding to the lineup, as well. Now, I will admit I’m not exactly a book of knowledge when it comes to comics, nor am I an avid comic booker reader. I guess one may call me a wannabe comic-nerd. It feels like something I would love and really get into, but I seldom take the time to do it. I know enough of each character’s backstory, thanks to Wikipedia, to have a good notion of their abilities, powers and life. It’s such an interesting world to me, and it’s easy to see how people can become so enthralled with the character’s story and how they grow and evolve over time. It’s truly fascinating, and I hope to become a little more conversant with the comic world as the film franchises continue to grow.
In her official pop debut, Taylor Swift’s “1989” is finally upon us. If one thing is certain about this album, it’s that this is not the same Swift as her self-titled 2006 debut “Taylor Swift.” Swift’s signature upbeat style is still present on this album, but what separates it from her previous ventures is the production and lyrics. Swift said this album was inspired by ‘80s pop and it shows. Songs like “Style” and “I Wish You Would” have the same groovy vibes you would find from songs in the ‘80s. Songs like “Shake it Off” and “Welcome to New York” are more reminiscent of contemporary pop. Tracks like “I Wish You Would” and “This Love” display classic Swift with a pop twist. What makes these songs different from Swift’s previous country-pop sound is that these do sound more like ‘80s love ballads from an adult than whiney love songs from an adolescent. What the album lacks, however, is variety. The first five tracks are practically the same song over and over in terms of their structure and tempo. All these tracks have the same verse-chorus-versechorus-bridge-chorus for three and a half minutes and it’s noticeable after one listen. Unfortunately this is not a problem found exclusively in Swift’s music, as other pop songs of late have used the same method. Another shortcoming is Swift’s over harmonization
Courtesy of Screen Rant
WORLDS CLASH- Marvel and DC will begin batteling it out beginning in 2016 when DC releases “Batman V. Superman” and Marvel releases “Captain America: Civil War” The world of film has become almost dominated with big, superhero themed films in recent years. It’s been a gamble worth betting on, as the future for these types of films gets even brighter. Below is the massive upcoming schedule for superhero movie releases until 2020. 2015 “Avengers: Age of Ultron”May 1 “Ant Man”- July 17 “Fantastic Four”- Aug. 7 2016 “Batman V. Superman: Dawn of Justice”- March 25 “Captain America: Civil War”- May 6 “X-Men Apocalypse”- May 27 “Suicide Squad”- Aug. 5 “Dr. Strange”- Nov. 4 2017 “Wolverine”- March 3 “Guardians of the Galaxy 2”May 5 “Wonder Woman”- June 23 “Fantastic Four 2”- July 14 “Thor: Ragnarok”- July 28 “Black Panther”- Nov. 3
“Justice League”- Nov. 17 2018 “The Flash”- March 23 “Avengers: Infinity War 1”May 4 “Captain Marvel”- July 6 “Aquaman”- July 27 “Inhumans”- Nov. 2 2019 “Shazam”- April 5 “Avengers: Infinity War 2”May 3 “Justice League 2”- June 14 2020 “Cyborg”- April 3 “Green Lantern”- June 19 That is the confirmed list of superhero themed films to be released over the next six years. It’s a good thing for the box office, as most of these films will be blockbusters and generate huge profits. There are other movies currently in development but have yet to be announced, so it’s obvious we will still see a few more added to the list. The additions of these films make the future of movies exciting and intriguing.
Read more content
ONLINE www.tntechoracle.com
Courtesy of MTV.com
ARE WE OUT OF THE WOODS YET?- “1989” is projected to sell at least 1 million copies in its first week of release. This will make Swift the only artist to have three albums sell over 1 million in the first week--all three consecutively. of her voice during the chorus on nearly every song on the album. Swift has the vocal tenacity to sing a catchy chorus without the assistance of two more Taylor Swifts. It’s disappointing to hear her belt it out for the final choruses of these tracks only to smother herself with more of her own voice. It all sounds overproduced and unnecessary and seems like Swift is using it as a crutch instead of trying to use her raw talent. “1989” also suffers from Swift not using her full lyrical capabilities. Known for always writing songs about breakups and chasing boys, she refrains from that on most of this album, but, in exchange, there’s some lazy songwriting here. “This love is good, this love is bad; this love is alive, back from the dead. These hands had to let it go free, and this love came back to
me,” Swift swoons on “This Love.” The lyrics are fine here, but that’s all they are: fine. Swift is a gifted songwriter and should have produced better lyrics than this. Overall, this album has some really groovy beats, with synths and hi-hats, and really accentuates the ‘80s style Swift is going for. However, the lyrics leave something to be desired, and that’s what makes this album feel like it could come from any pop artist, not Taylor Swift. The songs are catchy though, and some do get better after multiple listens, but that still requires some devotion to the album. If you’re a die-hard Swiftie, then this album is a fun listen and should leave you very pleased. For the non-die-hard fans, the album might feel like common denominator music, especially in a genre that’s as saturated as pop these days.
“Ouija” a spooky, yet irritating film By HANNAH BENJAMIN Entertainment Critic “Ouija” is perfectly timed for Halloween, when creepy movies dominate and leave viewers jumping out of their seats. In this film, a group of friends unleash a dark and cryptic power from the infamous spirit board after inves-
tigating the mysterious suicide of their friend, Debbie. The only notable actor in this film is Daren Kagasoff, from “The Secret Life of the American Teenager.” The movie somehow ranked number one in the box office last weekend.“Ouija” begins with very strong character development, which is unusual for most horror movies. The film explains away the lack of parental supervision, the relationships between the teenagers and adds a complex sibling rivalry be-
tween main character, Layne, and her sister, Sarah. It’s also incredibly boring. The film takes about 45 minutes for any real action to begin, which is unfortunate because the run time is only one hour and 20 minutes. The film capitalizes on the “jump” effects that make scary movies so downright creepy. The audience expects something to pop out at every turn in “Ouija,” which is ultimately very anxiety inducing. Nothing else seems to be unsettling about the movie, however, because the plot is confusing and hard to follow. The evil spirits have motivation for haunting these teenagers, but the film isn’t explicitly clear as to what it is. The acting in “Ouija” isn’t great, but that’s to be expected from any low-budget, PG-13 horror movie. The scary situations that arise seem entirely avoidable and unnecessary except for plot progression. At one point, the main character lays down the rules for using the Ouija board and then breaks them all within the following five minutes. “Ouija” is downright irritating, but not a bad choice for a spooky Halloween viewing. This movie will leave audiences on edge. Rated PG-13 for disturbing and violent content, frightening horror images and thematic material, “Ouija” will make you think twice about messing with the undead.
Page 6 || THE ORACLE || COOKEVILLE, TN
SPORTS
Friday, October 31, 2014
>> Inside the Game FOOTBALL
VOLLEYBALL
Volleyball splits weekend games: Dodd awarded with OVC honor By SHEA HAILE Sports Editor The Golden Eagle volleyball team was anchored last weekend by two solid performances from junior outside hitter Cody Dodd. The Cookeville native dominated against one of the better teams in the Ohio Valley Conference Eastern Kentucky. She finished the game with 16 kills and 15 digs completing her ninth double - double this season. Dodd was not done. Saturday against Morehead State she made her presence felt from the service line with seven service aces. Dodd also added 16 kills against the Eagles making her weekend total 31 kills. The stellar performances lead to Dodd being selected as the OVC Offensive Player of the Week for the second time this season. “I thought I played ok, but I did not know I played that good. I am happy with it,” said Dodd. Dodd’s performances at home have been spectacular all season. She is averaging 4.09 kills per set at Hooper Eblen and has .240 hitting percentage at home. Dodd gives a simple explanation for her home game heroics. “ I think it is because I want more fans,” said Dodd. “ So I think if I play better at home more people will come and if we win people will start coming and that is my goal. Dodd’s double-double
Dodd was not enough to halt a fiery Eastern Kentucky team that was out for revenge following an upset by Tech on the Colonels’ home court Oct. 18. EKU took down the Golden Eagles 3-1 on Oct. 24.They were led by senior defensive specialist Dena Ott. She protected the Colonel’s side of the net with 33 digs. An angry Eastern Kentucky team was relentless in their goal of going back to Richmond with a win. “ They were feral,” stated head coach Dave Zelenock. “ We took a step back when they came at us with their teeth out. That is something we need to work on.” Zelenock was not the only one that noticed the change in the Colonel’s intensity from their previous match up. Freshman outside hitter Kellie Williams experienced the change first hand. “ They definitely took us lightly when we came to their home,” said Williams. “ I felt like they actually took us as an actual threat (on Saturday). They definitely came out with a hunger to beat us. “ Tech had a chance to redeem them selves against Morehead State on Saturday and took advantage of the opportunity beating the Eagles in straight sets. The Golden Eagles were the ones playing
with a chip on their shoulders and played with intensity, but a talented Morehead team kept the sets interesting. In the second set however, they were unable to wrestle a single set away from a determined Tech team. With the win, the Golden Eagles completed a regular season sweep of Morehead State. This season is the first time Tech swept Morehead since 1999. The stat also reflects the amount of dominance Morehead State has enjoyed in the past years and the current state of Tech’s volleyball program. “ It is cool for us because Morehead has been on top for so long and its great for our girls and it is great for the recognition of the program,’ said Zelenock. The Golden Eagles will be back on the road Today and Saturday. They begin the weekend with a match against Austin Peay. The Lady Governors and the Golden Eagles have similar records. Austin Peay is 11-15 overall and 5-5 in conference play. Tech is 11-15 also, but has one more conference win than the Lady Governors. Austin Peay ranks in the top three in the OVC for kills. Their senior outside hitter Jada Stotts leads the OVC in kills with 342. Saturday the Golden Eagles will travel to Murray, KY to challenge the top team in the OVC the Murray State Racers. The Racers have the best conference record and the best overall record of anyone else in the OVC with an overall record of 18-4. Murray leads the conference in kills, hitting percentage, and assist. Today’s game against Austin Peay begins at 6:00 at the Winfield Dunn Center. Saturday’s match up with Murray State will also begin at 6:00 at the Racer Arena.
BASKETBALL
Purple Palooza gives basketball fans an early look at the Men’s and Women’s teams By CHAYCE GAW Beat Reporter The Tennessee Tech men’s and women’s basketball teams tipped off their seasons by hosting the third annual Purple Palooza at the Hooper Eblen Center Tuesday night. The event was open to the public and included free food, a costume contest and trick-or treating for children. Purple Palooza also showcased the talents of the men’s and women’s basketball teams with a scrimmage, three-point competitions and a slam-dunk contest. “This [Purple Palooza] is about generating interest in basketball and to get some of our younger fans a chance to get on the floor with our players after the game,” said Steve Payne, head coach of the Golden Eagle men’s basketball team. The first event of Purple Palooza was the women’s scrimmage. The players were divided into two separate teams (Purple and Gold) and played one 10 minute half. Sophomore Hannah Goolsby led the team with seven points. Freshman guard Yaktavia “Shug” Hickson also looked impressive as she scored five points, including a deep jumper from beyond the arch. Every player on the Golden Eagle’s roster saw playing time in the scrimmage. “Purple Palooza is great for our young ladies to spend time with the little ones and pass out candy and to get to meet our season ticket holders,” said women’s basketball head coach Jim Davis. Davis has spent the offseason getting his players in better shape. “We need to be more physical and stronger. We really worked hard in the weight room and had individual workouts leading up to the opening of practice,” said Davis The men’s scrimmage was next and featured plenty of action, with the team playing on Purple and White teams. The Golden Eagles showed off their high flying ability by throwing down multiple slam dunks and alley-oops. Sophomore DeOndre Haynes
showcased his exciting playmaking abilities by scoring six points, all of them being breakaway dunks. Charles Jackson, a junior transfer from College of Southern Idaho, made the most of his debut by scoring six points and grabbing multiple rebounds. Junior Anthony Morse led the scoring in the men’s scrimmage with eight points, and showed off his ability to take it to the rim. The White team defeated the Purple team 30-28 after freshman Josh Bougher hit a jump shot at the buzzer. “It’s good to show the fans how hard we’ve been working and showcase our skills, while having fun at the same time,” said senior Javon McKay. The evening concluded with a threepoint contest and a slam-dunk contest. Freshman guard Aleksa Jugovic made the most three-pointers for the men, while Catherine Taylor had the highest total among the women. Both players made a total of seven three-point shots in 30 seconds. Other participants in the threepoint contest included redshirt freshman Mason Ramsey, sophomore Shirmane Thomas and junior Torrance Rowe for the men; as well as Marina Ruiz, Shug Hickson and Hannah Goolsby for the women’s team. The slam dunk contest was judged by a trio that included Awesome Eagle. Each judge rated the dunks on a scale of one to 10. Each participant had 30 seconds to complete their best dunk. Junior Josiah Moore won the slam dunk contest by achieving a perfect score of 30 after he slammed home a ball passed from halfway up the stands by teammate Shirmane Thomas. Anthony Morse came in second place with a score of 29, Josh Bougher placed third with a score of 27, and Shunice Tionne Herron finished in fourth place after failing to complete a dunk. Both the men’s and women’s teams will open their seasons Thursday, Nov. 6 at the Hooper Eblen Center. The women’s team will play Tennessee Wesleyan at 5:30 p.m. with the men’s exhibition game against Bluefield College to follow at 7:30 p.m.
Injury riddled TTU loses 49-3 at JSU By JORDAN PACE Asst. Sports Editor It would be kind to say the Golden Eagles had their feathers ruffled at BurgessSnow Field in Jacksonville, Ala. last Saturday afternoon. Tech was handed its biggest loss of the season after being blown out 49-3 on the road at No. 6 Jacksonville State. The loss comes just a week after a thrilling upset under the lights at home against then No. 12 EKU. Head coach Watson Brown said during his postgame news conference after the win that he’d be surprised if his team traveled to Alabama and “laid an egg.” They did. The Golden Eagles took an early 3-0 lead after a 33yard John Arnold field goal in the first quarter, but it was all Jacksonville State the rest of the way. Literally. The Gamecocks responded to the field goal with a 9-yard Miles Jones touchdown run at the beginning of the second quarter. From that point on, the home team had their way with the Golden Eagles as they found the end zone six more times before the final tick of the fourth quarter. The Gamecocks scored 49 unanswered points, with 35 in the second quarter alone. Brown said after the game that his team caught their opponent at an inopportune time, or opportune for JSU depending on how you look at it. The Gamecocks began Saturday afternoon’s game fresh and well-rested off an open week. “They beat the fool out of us,” said Brown. “I don’t think they could have caught us at a better time. The open date and their freshness —
they looked so much faster, quicker and stronger than us.” Already riddled with injuries before the match-up, particularly at the linebacker position, the Golden Eagles added several more during Saturday’s loss. “We’re beat to a pulp,” said Brown after the game. “There are bodies laid out everywhere in there [locker room].” Linebackers Lenier Lee, Johnathan Coleman and Jordan Carroll all left the field with injuries before the end of the first half. Brown said his team was forced to put linebackers Jay Rudwall and Trey Thompson in the game, who both missed the previous week of practice while resting injuries. Brown was also forced to activate and play redshirt freshman linebacker Elliott Normand from the scout team. “We lost every linebacker,” said Brown. “We played the start of the second quarter with a linebacker that hadn’t played all year and two linebackers that I don’t think should have been out there.” Brown admitted his game plan in the second half was to play conservative and get out of town without any more injured players. Brown also praised JSU’s defensive front six. “It’d be a hard pick between them and Northern Iowa,” said Brown of the Gamecocks’ defensive line. “The rest of their team is good, but they’re really good in their front six.” It was a rough go the entire game for the Golden Eagles’ offense. The Gamecocks held Tech to just 107 yards rushing with an average of 2.6 yards per at-
tempt. JSU also held Tech to just eight first downs in comparison to their 30. Tech senior quarterback Darian Stone finished 7-for16 with just 67 yards passing. The Golden Eagles defense gave up 335 yards rushing to JSU’s power attack and 598 yards of total offense. The Gamecocks finished the contest with seven players rushing 20 yards or more. It was the second consecutive game the Golden Eagles have given up 450 yards or more of total offense. Tech moves on from last week’s routing in Jacksonville to take on the Eastern Illinois Panthers. The Golden Eagles look to retain their undefeated home record at Tucker Stadium. They are 3-0 this season. Brown admitted that while his team has played well at home this season, his team has a challenge this week in EIU. “There’s still a lot left to go, but we have to have enough in us to be able to get back up and go fight these home games,” said Brown. “We’ve still got EIU, who’s really good. They’d be ranked if they didn’t have a schedule like the one we’ve had.” While his team heals and prepares for Saturday afternoon’s home matchup against OVC rival EIU, Brown said again, after the game at JSU, he’d be shocked if his team didn’t get their heads up. “The silver lining is I love these kids,” said Brown of his players. “They’re hurting. I want them to hurt. That’s where it is and that’s where we are. No excuses.” The Golden Eagles (3-5, 2-3 OVC) take on defending OVC champion EIU (3-5, 3-1 OVC) this Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at Tucker Stadium.