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LAKERS WANDER THROUGH PRESIDENT BALL ‘WONDERLAND’ FRIDAY
M. HOCKEY WRAPS UP SEASON WITH FERRIS STATE VICTORY
SMARTPHONE APPS HELP STUDENTS STUDY, KEEP TRACK OF GRADES
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Primary season hits Michigan
Republicans look to mobilize student voting bloc despite historically low turnout BY Krisy Force GVL STAFF WRITER
M
ichiganders will cast their votes for the Republican presidential candidate in the Feb. 28 primary, but based on previous voter turnout, few college students will be visiting the voting booths. Don Zinman, a political science professor at Grand Valley State University, said many students do not vote in the general elections, let alone the primaries. Zinman said primary voters tend to have stronger political convictions than those who vote only in the general election or not at all. According to the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, only 58 percent of U.S. citizens between ages 18 and 29 voted in the 2010 midterm election. “Students who show up for primaries are students who are very politically engaged,” he said. “In the November election you will have more passive voters.” However, the professor said primaries are important and should be taken seriously. “If Republicans are going to be a majority party in the future they will have to at least draw parity with the Democrats among 18 through 29-year-old voters,” he said. “The decisions voters make today can shape a lifetime of voting habits. Primaries are the venue for voters to choose the leaders of their parties. Primaries can energize a party’s voters for the general election in November.” Both Zinman and GVSU’s College Republicans president, Eric Bassett, said voting in any election is important. “It is one of the most democratic things we can do as citizens,” Bassett said. “It is especially important
for students to vote and have our voices heard if we want politicians to listen to issues important to us.” Kristin Mahn, president of GVSU’s College Democrats, agreed with Bassett, adding that it is vital for students to vote despite party affiliation. “People in our age group do not vote enough,” Mahn said. “This is really disappointing since we are the ones that will have to deal with the consequences of whoever is elected for decades to come.” To encourage students to get involved in the government and vote, the College Republicans are using word of mouth tactics and tabling to inform students of the election and the importance of voting. The group has also invited all the candidates to speak at GVSU, but have yet to receive any commitments. The College Democrats are also holding a voter registration drive that will take place in April. For now, though, Zinman said Republican students should embrace the opportunity to voice their opinion in the primary about which candidate they want to progress to the presidential election. He added that voting in this primary, if Republican, is key because it will be a very competitive election. “(Everyone) thought it was going to be a Mitt Romney walk-away but now he is going to have to fight for it,” Zinman said. “I don’t think his home state advantage is all it is cracked up to be.” Bassett said students can have a great impact on which candidates are chosen for leadership positions. “If we want to change the leadership in the White House then we need all Republican students to vote and be engaged,” Bassett said. kforce@lanthorn.com
Background: Former governor of Massachusetts, declared his candidacy on June 2. Primary victories: Maine, New Hampshire, Florida, Nevada Key issues: For the death penalty (after special trials) and tax cuts. Against the legalization of marijuana and stimulus spending. Secured delegates: 91 Total primary votes: 1,119,307 (38.9 percent)
Mitt Romney
GVL Archive
Against the current: Despite a growing trend at universities to require students to purchase insurance plans, GVSU will not mandate student health insurance, said Mike Doxey.
Background: Former U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania, declared his candidacy on June 6. Primary victories: Iowa, Colorado, Minnesota, Missouri
Uninsured at GV will not have to buy insurance
Key issues: For tax cuts, strict immigration reform and the death penalty. Against same-sex marriage, birth control, abortion and stimulus spending. Secured delegates: 4 Total primary votes: 430,827 (18.7 percent)
RICK SANTORUM
BY Samantha Belcher GVL STAFF WRITER
Following Michigan State University’s move to mandate health insurance for students who do not already have it, controversy is stirring up on college campuses about how much students can afford to pay while also dealing with the perpetually rising cost of college. Though many private Michigan colleges like Albion, Alma and Hope already require students to be insured, Michigan State was the state’s first public institution to apply the mandate, though a university spokesperson said about 25 percent of universities nationwide require students to have health insurance. Mick Doxey, director of Risk Management at Grand Valley State University, said GVSU has not considered mandating health insurance. “We recommend that (students) look at their own coverage before coming,” Doxey said. As a result of the new mandate, students at Michigan State will be enrolled in the Aetna plan, requiring them to pay $940 for the spring semester and $1,500 in tuition costs for the entire year if they are not insured. State Rep. Kevin Cotter (R-Mt. Pleasant) told the Detroit Free Press that the costs
Background: Former U.S. Speaker of the House of Representatives from Georgia, declared his candidacy on May 11. Primary victories: South Carolina Key issues: Supports lighter gun control restrictions, tax cuts and prison reform. Against legalization of marijuana and abortion. Secured delegates: 32 Total primary votes: 838,366 (27.5 percent)
NEWT GINGRICH Background: U.S. Representative from Texas, declared his candidacy on May 13. Primary victories: None, came in second in Minnesota and New Hampshire Key issues: For the legalization of marijuana and tax cuts. Against abortion and stimulus spending. Secured delegates: 9 Total primary votes: 305,864 (11 percent)
RON PAUL Delegates needed to secure nomination: 1,245 (2,488 total)
SEE INSURANCE, A3
Ash Wednesday begins 40 days of fasting BY Liz Garlick GVL STAFF WRITER
GVL Photo Illustration / Rachel Iturralde
Resisting temptation: For students of Catholic faith, fasting is an important part of Lent, which begins Wednesday.
Under the stress of rigorous courses, relationship maintenance and the dynamic college lifestyle, many students find comfort in a pint of Ben and Jerry’s and a bag of Lay’s potato chips. But for some Catholic students at Grand Valley State University, the season of Lent is almost upon them, and fasting is undertaken as
a challenge to improve one’s life spiritually and socially. Though the season of Lent varies from year-to-year, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Easter Sunday, the traditions remain the same: many Christians, and some nonChristians, take the time to rid their lives of vices to better themselves and remind themselves of the important things in life.
Although Catholics are only encouraged to abstain from food on two days during the 40-day celebration, they engage in a fast of their choice for the entire season. The Rev. Donald Andrie, associate pastor at GVSU’s St. Luke’s Parish, said Lent is a perfect opportunity of finding self-discipline and fasting in order to focus more on God SEE FASTING, A3
A2 NEWS
Grand Valley Lanthorn MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2012
N E W S E D I TO R L I Z Z Y B A L B OA
FUN AND FUNDRAISING
NEWS BRIEFS Student Leaders recognized at Venderbrush reception Grand Valley State University will be recognizing student leaders at the Venderbush Leadership Reception on Friday in the Pere Marquette Room. Nominees and the recipient of the Student Organization Center’s Immediate Impact Award will be announced and new members of Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honorary Society will be recognized. The keynote speaker is Dan Breuker, a GVSU alumnus who worked in the Office of Student Life and was a resident assistant before he graduated in 1992. He is senior account manager for Kentwood Office Furniture and an active member of Racing Awareness.
Haas named to NCAA committee Grand Valley State University President Thomas J. Haas was recently named to the Executive Committee Finance Committee for the NCAA Presidents Council. Haas has served on the council since 2011.
Alumnus writes play for GV The theater program at Grand Valley has commissioned a new play on the Iraq War by the distinguished playwright and alumnus Max Bush (’72). “An Identified Enemy” will receive its first staged readings in the Louis Armstrong Theatre on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday 6 at 2 p.m. The play, open to the public with free admission, runs approximately 90 minutes without an intermission. In staged readings, part of the development process of a play, actors perform with scripts in-hand and without full costumes, set or effects used in the final version of the production. As artist-in-residence since November, Bush developed his script with the aid of Iraq War veterans with a company of 25 students who have been working with him in a specially-created 50-hour workshop. The drama tells the story of Jamie Foster, a war veteran now enrolled in college, as he tries to piece together the truth about his friend Jalil, a local Iraqi national.
WHAT’S INSIDE SECTION A News Opinion Your Space
SECTION B A2 A3 A5
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B1 B4 B5
CORRECTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS The modern languages and literatures department has already approved and budgeted Polish language courses for the GVSU 2012-13 school year.
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Courtesy Photo / Lindsay Evens
Hoops for a cure: A team from last year’s Cancer Awareness Football Jam poses in the Kelly Family Sports Center after the event, which the Sports Leadership Club hosts each year in honor of former GVSU Dean of Multicultural Affairs, Oliver Wilson.
Cancer Awareness Basketball Jam set to hit Fieldhouse on Friday BY Zach Sepanik GVL staff writer
T
he Grand Valley State University Sport Leadership Club is set to host the third-annual Cancer Awareness Basketball Jam on Friday in the main Fieldhouse Arena, a fundraising event to help benefit those diagnosed with the disease. The event began three years ago in memory of the late Dean Oliver Wilson from the Office of Multicultural Affairs. This year, it will feature a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, skills competition and dunk contest. “The event was started by the student organization I.M.P.A.C.T. in 2010 and since has been hosted by the Sport Leadership Club,” said senior Lindsay Evens, vice president of internal affairs for the SLC. “Dean Wilson battled cancer for three years until he passed away in August of 2009. The first two years of the event were a flag football tournament, so this is the first year that it will be a 3-on-3 basketball tournament.”
“This event really hits home because we are honoring a great dean from GVSU that was affected by cancer. It’s just a great cause to be involved in.”
lindsay evens vp of internal affairs sport leadership club
While the format will be switching from the turf to the hardwood, the entire goal to not only increase awareness, but also raise money for cancer, remains the same. “Through this event, we are fundraising for Hope Lodge of Grand Rapids,” said senior Ariel Wilkerson, president of the SLC. “This organization provides transportation and housing for cancer patients. For our student organization to put on an event like this, it is big.” The Jam was originally scheduled for Jan. 27, only three weeks after returning from Winter Break, but the club pushed the date back to
Volume 46, Number 44 The Grand Valley Lanthorn is published twice-weekly by Grand Valley State University students 62 times a year. One copy of this newspaper is available free of charge to any member of the Grand Valley Community. For additional copies, please contact our business offices. POSTMASTER: Please send form 3579 to Grand Valley Lanthorn, 0051 Kirkhof, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, MI, 49401
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maximize participation. “We pushed the date back to make sure the tournament lives up to our standards,” said sophomore Antonio Douthet, treasurer of the SLC. “We’re not going to throw a bad tournament and with more time, we were able to get some great things to give away, as well as get some good entertainment.” The tournament is limited to 16 men’s teams and eight women’s teams, and each skills competition is limited to four participants. The team registration fee is $20, while the skills challenge and dunk contest fee are each $10, but is waived if already registered with a
team. General admission to the event is $2. Individuals and teams can register online at www. s u r v e y m o n k e y. c o m / s / BWLG8TL or also by contacting Evens at evensli@ mail.gvsu.edu. “We feel as though this is a good opportunity to help spread awareness and raise money for cancer,” Evens said. “This event really hits home because we are honoring a great dean from GVSU that was affected by cancer. It’s just a great experience and a great cause to be involved in.” There will also be free food, prizes and giveaways at the Jam, which runs from 6 to 11 p.m. “Everyone should come out in support of this event,” Wilkerson said. “You can think of it as a precursor event to Relay for Life. We have to thank Bobby Springer from the Office of Multicultural Affairs for allowing us to continue to put on this event and supporting us through it all.” zsepanik@lanthorn.com
NEWS A3
Grand Valley Lanthorn MONDAY FEBRUARY 20, 2012
FASTING
continued from A1
and one’s spiritual and social priorities in life. Andrie said fasting is not just giving up sweets, but could also be giving up an activity that deviates from one’s priorities, such as video games or Facebook, or adding on an activity to improve other people’s lives. “America is a culture that is fairly self-indulgent,” he said, adding that it is important to recognize these indulgences during this holiday. Krysta Thelen, an officer of the GVSU Catholic Student Association, said she decided to fast during Lent every day. “This tested my inner strength, and deepened my faith that the Lord would help me to understand why I was doing this and not for myself,” she said. “In the end we (Thelen and her fiancé) were both rewarded with a better understanding of our spiritual hunger and longing for God, and became even closer to Him and to each other.” Cynthia Lykins, another officer of the CSA, said fasting has helped her develop self-discipline. “Since I’ve started making more choices on my own since I’ve been in college, it’s forced me to figure out what my motives are behind my actions,” Lykins said. “The most challenging part of fasting is actually saying no to and giving up something that’s valuable and pleasurable to you.” Catholic students aren’t the only ones that fast, though. Many faith groups practice fasting during religious holidays, like the Islamic celebration of Ramadan, which begins July 20 and ends Aug. 18 this year. Gamal Gasim, professor of political science and Middle East Studies at GVSU, said
“This tested my inner strength and deepened my faith that the Lord would help me understand why I was doing this and not for myself.”
PHOTO OF THE ISSUE: PRESIDENT’S BALL 2012
Krysta thelen csa officer
fasting is extremely important to Muslims because it is one of the five pillars of Islam. “There is no excuse for (Muslim) students not to fast,” Gasim said, adding that it is a beautiful challenge to motivate them to work harder and focus more. He also added that some of the greatest achievements of Islamic history have occurred during Ramadan, including the collapse of Libya last year. Gasim and Andrie said fasting can be strenuous at times, especially for busy students, and exceptions can be made. “During Ramadan, sick people, travelers and women who are pregnant don’t have to fast, but they are supposed to make up the days that they missed at some other point in the year,” said Coeli Fitzpatrick, coordinator of the Middle Eastern Studies program at GVSU. “Most Christians will eat something, even during Lent, so they are less likely to get sick from fasting, but it is not unusual for Muslims to feel weak during Ramadan, especially if they are doing sports or manual labor.” Both faiths put a strong emphasis on focusing on the most important aspects of life, and with Lent starting Wednesday, indulgences and priorities will soon be assessed. egarlick@lanthorn.com
GVL / Bo Anderson
Dancing in technicolor: Students and staff take to the dance floor on Friday during Grand Valley State University’s 2012 Presidents’ Ball. The theme for this years’ Presidents’ Ball theme was “Wandering in Wonderland”. The top five finalists for the Laker5 competition were also announced at the event, which was hosted by GVSU President Thomas J. Haas and Student Senate.
INSURANCE continued from A1
could total up to an additional $6,900 for health insurance costs at the end of the average four-year career at the university. GVSU offers health insurance to students through Colombian Life Insurance Company for about $600 per year, according to Student Assurance Services. About 300 students have purchased insurance through the university plan. Although health insurance could be expensive for students, Doxey said, it could be even more costly
for students to not have insurance if they get injured or sick and have to pay out of pocket. Heather Rhodes, manager of the Health Center at GVSU, said the center assists students even if they are uninsured. “If you don’t have it (insurance), we work with you to fit the needs,” Rhodes said. She said the average visit costs about $45 to $100, depending on how many tests are needed. About 150 to 200 students come into the health center weekly. Rhodes said not many students come into the
“If you don’t have it (insurance), we work with you to fit the needs.”
Michelle rhodes director of financial aid
Health Center without insurance, but extended payment plans are available. Metro Health, the center’s parent hospital, also gives a 40 percent discount for students so they pay the same price as a student with insurance. Rhodes said having insurance helps students because they tend to be exposed to
many people and diseases on campus. The most common ailment students come to the health center with are acute sicknesses such as sore throat or pink eye. For more information on the GVSU student health insurance, visit www.gvsu. edu/studenthealthinsurance. sbelcher@lanthorn.com
ACES offers Spring Break safety tips for women BY Chelsea Lane GVL STAFF WRITER
F
or the first time, Alcohol Campus Education and Service’s Spring Break safety program will be geared at protecting female travellers. The annual program, which is hosted in conjunction with the Grand Valley Police Department, will focus on how to drink safely and remain safe when choosing to drink in new environments with new people, whether students are returning home over break or travelling in the U.S. or abroad. The 90-minute event begins at 7 p.m. Wednesday in Room 2263 of the Kirkhof Center. Unlike previous years, this year’s program will specifically address safety issues facing female students. ACES graduate assistant Alecia Smith, who will host the program, said ACES opted to tailor the event specifically to women this year because statistics show females are more likely to be targeted during spring break, women “generally can’t handle as much alcohol as men” and past ACES Spring Break safety programs have been largely or exclu-
Courtesy Photo / ststravel.com
Fun in the sun: Spring breakers crowd the shoreline. ACES will host a program Wenesday to help women enjoy break safely.
sively attended by female students. Some of the key topics covered at the event will include the signs of alcohol poisoning, the amount of alcohol in various drinks and how to maintain a safe environment around new people. GVPD Officer Betsy Wenk will also deliver travel safety tips and discuss some of the legal issues surrounding alcohol consumption. “Generally the program is really laid back,” Smith said. “... I’m going to come at it more from the angle of women and making safe choices around alcohol. If you’re 21 and can drink, I’ll give some
tips. If you’re 21 and can’t drink, I’ll talk about some ideas of how you can still have fun with your friends and make good choices.” In addition, the event will feature prizes from area businesses and beach bum gift sets. Refreshments will be served as well and attendees will have the chance to vote on a name for ACES’ new penguin mascot. clane@lanthorn.com
FEBRUARY 6-10 RESULTS FOR ON-CAMPUS RESIDENTS: Residence Hall Bags of Recycling Niemeyer 35 North A B C 22 Hoobler-Weed 22 South CDE 21 Murray VanSteeland 18 Siedman Kirkpatrick 13 Swanson Stafford 12 West A B 11 Robinson 10 Kistler 9 Copeland 8 Pew Pickard Devos 3 Calder Residence 0
A4 OPINION
Grand Valley Lanthorn MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2012
L A N T H O R N O P I N I O N O N L I N E AT L A N T H O R N . C O M R E A D T H E B LO G : “EDITOR’S DESK” BY SAMANTHA BUTCHER
VA L L E Y VOT E : Are you going to vote in the upcoming Republican primaries?
L AST I S S U E ’ S Q U E ST I O N : Do you think it’s hard to find a parking spot at GVSU?
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Y E S 44% N O 56%
EDITORIAL
GET OUT, vote T hough the turmoil of midterms is lurking on the horizon and the unpredictable Michigan weather is confusing just about everybody, students at Grand Valley State University and beyond should be gearing up to get engaged, stay informed and mobilize for their futures as the Republican presidential primaries make their way to the Mitten State on Feb. 28. For a lot of students at GVSU, this is the first time to have a real say in what happens to the future of this country. You
The election can seem less important than issues at hand, but students should make an effort to go out to the polls
may not be Republican, and you may not even like any of the Republican candidates in the running, but that’s not an excuse to pretend like it’s not of any consequence to you. The 2008 elections proved the power of the youth vote. College-aged students and the like were one of the cardinal forces behind putting the first African-American president into office, and regardless of whether you think now-President Barack Obama was the right choice or not, you
QUESTION OF THE ISSUE
can’t deny that kind of milestone. Students turned out in record numbers to elect Obama, but many analysts are predicting that this November, college voters will return to their historically passive state and bypass the voting booth, especially for the upcoming primaries. However, regardless of your politics or your thoughts on the electoral college, every vote counts — including yours. Recent events like the Occupy Wall Street demonstrations and the Internet
protests of SOPA show that Americans are craving a say — we want a voice in our government, and we want that voice to be heard, but one of the loudest ways to project that voice is to go to the polls and vote, regardless of your party affiliation (or lack thereof). Whether you’re a Democrat, a Republican, an independent, a third-party supporter or want to write in “Sarah Palin” come November, get engaged. Know the candidates, form an educated opinion and make that opinion heard at the polls.
GVL EDITORIAL CARTOON I BY DAN SILLS
Do you think it is important to vote in Michigan’s presidential primary? “Yes. The more chances a person has to make their voice heard, the better.”
Janna Kruse Senior, biology Holland, Mich.
“I never used to appreciate the importance of a ‘single voice’ in terms of any election, but Obama’s eventual nomination and presidency changed my outlook on that, especially because of how influential students were to his success.” Sam Swiftney
Senior, hospitality and tourism mgmt. Spring Lake, Mich.
“I think it is important but there are so many people who take little interest in what is going on, a lot of people don’t necessarily take the time to vote in the primaries.”
Kyah Nichols
Senior, hospitality and tourism mgmt. Detroit, Mich.
“Yes, it’s your voice in the political process and a civic duty.”
Scott Giles
Senior, political science Manistique, Mich.
“Yes, I think it is important for everyone to vote if possible, be informed on economic and social issues, know where the politicians stand and vote accordingly.”
Tyler Mesman
Senior, political science Hudsonville, Mich.
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‘But it shouldn’t be’ not a good excuse BY CHRIS SLATTERY GVL COLUMNIST
Dear marijuana users, Stop. Just stop, okay? We get it. I’m with you — marijuana should be legal, sure. You eventually cornered me a few days ago and got me to sign a petition, and while I have nothing against people smoking marijuana, I do have something against people blind-siding me while I’m eating to get my signature on a piece of paper. Autographs are an exception. However, I want to address some bass-ackwards logic — and underage alcohol drinkers can listen up, as well — behind using
Editor in Chief Managing Editor Web Managing Editor Advertising Manager BY Andrew Justus
GVL Assistant News Editor
GVL OPINION POLICY The ultimate goal of the Grand Valley Lanthorn opinion page is to stimulate discussion and action on topics of interest to the Grand Valley Community. Student opinions do not reflect those of the Grand Valley Lanthorn. The Grand Valley Lanthorn welcomes reader viewpoints and offers three vehicles of expression for reader opinions: letters to the editor, guest columns and phone responses. Letters must include the author’s name and be accompanied by current picture identification if dropped off in person. Letters will be checked by an employee of the Grand Valley Lanthorn.
Letters appear as space permits each issue. The limit for letter length is one page, single spaced. The editor reserves the right to edit and condense letters and columns for length restrictions and clarity. All letters must be typed. The Grand Valley Lanthorn will not be held responsible for errors that appear in print as a result of transcribing handwritten letters or e-mail typographic errors. The name of the author may be withheld for compelling reasons. The content, information and views expressed are not approved by nor necessarily represent those of the university, its Board of Trustees, officers, faculty and staff.
trouble in regards to marijuana possession and every single one of them told me what they said to the cop that busted them: “I know it’s illegal, but it shouldn’t be.” First of all, admitting that you know something is against the law doesn’t necessarily help your case when you are being charged with… breaking the law. Everybody and their grandmother knows that you shouldn’t have been toting that plastic baggie around, and grandma still doesn’t know what a Snooki is. Secondly, simply stating that the rules of society should change won’t do anything; the police officer isn’t going to say, “Oh, geez, you’re so right. I’ll let you go so I can contact my Congressman.” “But it shouldn’t be” is just like a child arguing to stay up past his or her
bedtime. There is nothing wrong with civil discussion about the subject at a reasonable hour in a respectable setting, but now is not the time or the place to fight for your “cause.” I honestly think that our generation is going to be the one to see this big turnaround and weed fiends everywhere can be excited about that. It means we won’t have to resort to synthetic marijuana use, unless you’re into acting weird and stuff. What I’m trying to say is that wanting something to be legal doesn’t immediately make it that way, so if you get caught, do it with some class. Maybe one day we can be like Amsterdam, because you know what they say: “The grass is always greener where it’s being smoked.” Love, Chris cslattery@lanthorn.com
Candidates ignoring issues on Main Street
EDITORIAL PAGE BOARD SAMANTHA BUTCHER ANYA ZENTMEYER HALEY OTMAN KEVIN HAUSFELD
illegal substances and then justifying it with “But it shouldn’t be.” While it is not an inaccurate statement, it is largely flawed. Let me first explain where I’m coming from: I don’t smoke, except for the eight cigarettes I had over the summer because I wanted to be a good writer. I support medical marijuana and, what the hey, recreational usage if it ever becomes legal. I don’t feel the need to explain why I feel this way because every stoner out there could probably rationalize better and include more facts. If there’s one thing I know about you dopeheads (aside from the fact that there are so many fun names to call you), it’s that you know laws and precedents like the back of your bong. Kudos. Either way, quite a few people that I know have gotten in some serious
Michigan’s presidential primary is eight days away, and in the mean time, candidates and their totally unrelated and uncoordinated Super PACs will continue shelling voters with nice and not-so-nice ads trying to win votes. A man in a sweater vest now leads the polling by a healthy margin. Don’t worry though, disgraced Ohio State University ex-football coach Jim Tressel is not atop any polls in Michigan. The sweater vest in this case belongs to former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick
Santorum, who is running for the presidency after being voted out of office after only one term in 2006. Unwanted by the people of Pennsylvania, Santorum is not the man Michiganders should want either. His focus on divisive social issues like gay marriage and contraception is sure to rile up many regular church-goers but ignores what matters most for the people of Michigan, jobs. Santorum reaffirmed his opposition to the 2008 bailouts of Chrysler and General Motors while in Detroit recently, despite successful turnarounds for both automakers. Mitt Romney also opposed the successful auto bailouts, even after the government recouped roughly half of its $79
billion investment in Chrysler and GM. While less socially divisive than Santorum, Romney makes up for it by being completely unable to relate to the everyman. Before being elected governor of Massachusetts, Romney worked for a private equity firm, where he was able to make money even if the company he bought went into bankruptcy and laid off all its workers. Newt Gingrich, not a real candidate. Gingrich cheated on multiple wives and as far as I’m concerned the only presidents allowed to do that are Jack Kennedy — because what else is a man to do when Marilyn Monroe shows an interest in you — and Franklin Roosevelt, because he had Polio, so cut the guy some slack.
Ron Paul, a current congressman from Texas, is by far the best candidate in this field. He served as a flight surgeon in the U.S. Air Force at at time when many were trying to avoid being drafted into the military. While his desire to cut the size of government spending seems a bit extreme, I’m glad he practices what he says. Paul’s congressional office routinely returns part of its budget to the federal treasury. Last year it gave back 10 percent of its budget, or $140,000. Paul was also one of few Republicans who opposed the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, which, as of last June, had cost the government $3.7 trillion. assistantnews@ lanthorn.com
A5 your space
Grand Valley Lanthorn MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2012
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
‘Endangered language’ story is counter-productive Dear Editor-in-Chief: I am writing to express my shock and dismay at the article that was published in the Lanthorn on Monday (Feb. 13), titled “Endangered Language.” Polish is a valued language in Modern Languages and Literatures department and one that I personally support strongly and wouldlike to see succeed and grow. I see Polish as a unique offering at GVSU, and I would like to see it offered to the GVSU community. You may be interested to know that the department is planning to offer Polish next year and that we have included Polish classes in our 2012-2013 schedule (which by the way was submitted to the college and registrar last semester). You may also be interested to know that the trip to the Polish consulate in Chicago (referenced in the article) received departmental support, which is one indication of
the department’s interest and commitment to this program. Having said that, I want to express my strong disappointment at the Lanthorn’s irresponsible and one-sided reporting. I wonder if an editor vetted this article? Is there a regular vetting process for all articles? I wonder what type of journalistic rigor the Lanthorn has? Publishing an article that is factually incorrect and that takes one side of the story is simply irresponsible and unprofessional. For example, the article states as fact that the “department of modern languages and literatures has expressed the desire to close the program” and that “the modern languages and literatures department does not advertise the Polish program to the same degree that it advertises its more popular programs.” These statements are simply untrue, false statements. How did you come up with these conclusions? How is it possible
that someone takes such statements and publishes them as fact without even bothering to contact the department and inquire about this information? The article, in addition, is counter-productive on all levels. Most importantly, if we want to give the writer and the Lanthorn the benefit of the doubt (i.e, that this article is well-intentioned to bring a discussion to the fore), I would argue that such a discussion would happen in a very small circle and the end result, instead, is that the article actually creates a sense among students that this language is about to go, so why even bother to take it? I wish the Lanthorn would write about how offering Polish enriches the university, bringing attention to it in a positive way, opening students’ eyes to the possibility of taking it.
Comedy Club ‘does not support or endorse rape’ Dear Editor, I am writing this final letter to express my feelings and the Stand Up Comedy Club’s group consensus: the GVSU Stand Up Comedy Club does not support or endorse rape in any fashion whatsoever, period. I apologize to anyone that was offended by my letter. I’m sorry that my viewpoints regarding free speech were taken out of context. If anyone wants to discuss this further with me, seek out me out on campus. Sincerely,
Aric Pike
President, Stand Up Comedy Club
Dr. Majd Al-Mallah Chair, Modern Languages and Literatures Department
MAKE THIS YOUR SPACE Submit photos, art, columns, poems and other content to see your work in the Lanthorn! Email editorial@ lanthorn.com
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A6 NEWS
Grand Valley Lanthorn MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2012
GVL / Andrea Baker
In the know: Lisa Williams, student manager of Grand Valley State University’s 20/20 desk, works behind the counter with fellow student Shanna Jones in the lobby of the Kirkhof Center in Allendale. GVSU’s 20/20 desk received 91,958 calls during the 2010-11 academic school year.
G ot q u est io ns ?
The 20/20 Desk has answers BY Lizzy Balboa GVL NEWS EDITOR
W
hat’s the lifespan of a squirrel? And how many stripes are on a zebra? If you don’t know these answers, call the 2020 Information Desk at Grand Valley State University. You won’t be the first person to ask. In fact, the desk receives so many strange calls that it has a Blackboard site devoted to swapping stories. Between the elderly woman inquiring about refrigerating yeast and GoogleMaps seeking the address of the arboretum, your question may not be as outlandish as you think. During the 2010-11 school year, the desk received 91,958 calls with questions like these. Such support from the GVSU community has inspired the people behind the desk to host a 20/20 Information Appreciation Day today. “20/20 is showing our appreciation to faculty, staff and alums and the community that all call and have made 20/20 kind of a household word,” said Lisa Williams, student manager of the 20/20 Desk. Workers at the desk are giving out balloons, candy and 20 percent discounts at the student bookstore. Students can also take surveys to enter for a chance to win $20 in debit dollars or $20 to the bookstore, and they can contribute to the celebration by posting their favorite 20/20 stories on Twitter or the 20/20 Desk Facebook page. Williams said she has responded to a number of odd phone calls during her time behind the desk, whether it is directing someone as they drove through the state, participating in student surveys or answering unusual questions. LeAnn Tibbe, assistant director of Student Life, said her favorite call was from someone in Indianapolis who asked for the nearest Mercedes-Benz mechanic. “We were able to provide a service that was pretty unique,” Tibbe said. In fact, the service is so unique that people outside the GVSU community and even outside the state of Michigan call to get their questions answered. “Students who go to Grand Valley, who graduate and live elsewhere still call 20/20 to get their questions answered,” Williams said, adding that even students from Michigan State University call with questions. “A lot of other universities don’t have what we have.” Although the desk sees a lot of traffic, it wasn’t always as well-used or efficient as it is today. “20/20 had humble beginnings,” Wil-
“Students who go to Grand Valley who graduate and live elsewhere still call 20/20 to get their questions answered. A lot of other universities don’t have what we have.”
lisa williams 20/20 desk student manager
liams said. The 20/20 Desk started as “Buzz 206” in the late 1990s with a steel-case desk, a single student worker and a phone book. “We started it from nothing,” Tibbe said. The modern version of 20/20 was started in Fall 2002 when the university finished the Kirkhof Center renovations. It is now run by the Office of Student Life and supervised by professionals in the department. “The 20/20 Information Desk is a valuable asset to the entire campus community,” said Bob Stoll, associate dean for Student Life. “The student staff who work at the desk are there providing a wide variety of services. People are able to find out about almost anything by calling the staff who are there even late at night and on the weekends. They are well trained and experienced in getting information that people need to know. The campus culture has embraced this operation and finds great value in knowing who to call if they need assistance.” Besides answering phone calls, student 20/20 workers manage the recreation room and big screen theater, sell tickets and provide special event support. The workers at the 20/20 desk are considered essential staff, and the desk is one of the few campus offices that remains open during snow days. “We know we’re not perfect, but we really care about the campus community and we want to provide the best customer service we can,” Williams said. The desk is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to midnight. Students can contact the 20/20 Desk via Twitter or Facebook, or by calling 616-3312020. news@lanthorn.com
B SPORTS
Grand Valley Lanthorn MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2012
sports@lanthorn.com
S P O R T S E D I TO R B R A DY F R E D E R I C K S E N S P O R T S
SHORTS
M .
W. golf returns to action today
After a five-month break in their season, the No. 5 Grand Valley State University women’s golf team will return to the course today in a three-day Lady Moc Classic at Eaglebrooke Golf Club in Lakeland, Fla. Coming off a first-place finish at the Laker Fall Classic in November, the team will look to continue its hot play from which saw them win four of their five tournaments. The team will be led by senior Sarah Hoffman, who ended the first half of the season on a three-tournament medaling streak. GVSU is currently ranked second in the NCAA’s Division II East regional rankings, trailing only conference opponent Ashland University.
H O C K E Y
Skating into the sunset GV wraps up regular season with victory over Ferris State BY Jon Van Zytveld GVL STAFF WRITER
A
fter being upset by Division III Hope College last weekend, the Grand Valley State University Division II club hockey team gained momentum with a 3-2 victory over Ferris State University in overtime. Having previously defeated Ferris State, 5-2, earlier this month, the Lakers (27-5-1) entered their season finale confident, but prepared their “A” game anyway to avoid falling into the same mistakes that cost them their last game. “Ferris did a lot of things that they did last time we played them,” said junior goalie Scott Tiefenthal, who sat out the game to give senior Josh Lavigne time in the net. “They block a lot of shots and it’s somewhat frustrating to play against them because it’s hard to get behind them and get and play offensively. We got off to a slow start but we really put on the pressure in the third period.” The Lakers jumped out to an early lead with a first period goal from senior forward Brad Keough, but Ferris State soon followed suit with a goal of its own. After a scoreless second period, junior forward Tim Marney scored from a swiftly executed pass from Chad Wilhelm to put the Lakers up 2-1, but Ferris State retaliated again
Baseball picked to win the GLIAC
After finishing the 2011 season with a 52-5 overall record, the Grand Valley State University baseball team will start this season as the favorites to win the GLIAC. GVSU received eight of the 10 first place votes and 80 points in the preseason GLIAC coaches’ poll. With almost their entire pitching rotation returning, the Lakers will look to seniors Ryan Garman, Kyle Schepel and junior Brad Zambron to provide depth on the mound. The trio helped GVSU to a 32-1 GLIAC record a season ago. Offensively, senior outfielder Steve Anderson also returns. Anderson led GVSU with a .397 batting average, 15 doubles and seven home runs in 2011. GVSU will begin their 2012 season on Feb. 27th at Bellarmine University at 3 p.m.
GVL / Eric Coulter
Sharp shot: Freshman Matt Smartt (20) shoots the puck away from a defender during the Lakers’ last game against Hope College.
Chair back seats to be offered at Lubbers
New chair back seating will be available at Lubbers Stadium during the 2012 football season. The chair back seats were made available after renovations removed the track surrounding the field. In total, two sections of seats in the stadium are chair back seats. The chairs, which cost $25 per game or $125 for the season, will be available to 2011 season ticket holders starting on Feb.27 before the go on sale before they are sold to new season ticket holders in April.
G L I A C
STANDINGS M. Basketball GLIAC North Standings Northwood Ferris State Michigan Tech GVSU Lake Superior Saginaw Valley Northern Mich.
12-5 12-5 11-6 10-8 6-11 6-11 4-13
W. Basketball GLIAC North Standings Ferris State Michigan Tech Northern Mich. GVSU Lake Superior) Northwood Saginaw Valley
15-2 12-5 7-10 7-11 6-11 5-12 4-13
WEB EXCLUSIVE column: ‘JEREMY LIN IS AN INSPIRATION TO ALL’ www.lanthorn.com/sports
T R A C K
A N D
in the last two minutes to stay in the game and bring the teams into overtime. Undaunted, the Lakers maintained their strong offense and Keough capitalized on a giveaway goal from Ferris State in their own zone to score the game-winning goal. “We came out and played hard,” Keough said. “We weren’t very aggressive earlier on in the game, but we made up for it later. It was almost too late at that point, but we played better than we have for a while.” For junior forward Wilhelm, who recently rejoined the Lakers after sitting out for several weeks due to a shoulder injury, the game was an opportunity to get back into the rhythm and competition of hockey. “It felt great contributing again and seeing the team battle and not giving up when we had to kill off penalties and had some controversy with the referees,” he said. With this win, the Lakers close out their regular season and enter a two week break, after which the Lakers will host the Great Midwest Hockey League Tournament at the Georgetown Ice Arena in March. However, the Lakers are far from done and plan to use the break as an opportunity to improve, rather than a vacation. “We have next weekend off from games but we are adding practices on a couple Fridays to prepare for GMHL and tournament play,” Wilhelm said. “Practices are going to have to be more intense and we are going to have to bring the intensity that we would have in a game to practice in order to stay sharp.” jvanzytveld@lanthorn.com
F I E L D
Lakers confident heading into GLIACs BY Bryce Derouin GVL STAFF WRITER
With the GLIAC Championship meet rapidly approaching, the Grand Valley State University track and field teams entered their Tune Up meet on Friday with an eye on sharpening their times and focusing on the postseason. “I think we’re in a great spot as long as we stay focused on the task at hand,” said head coach Jerry Baltes. “We need to focus on competing to the best of our ability, and I’m very confident we will be ready to go next week in Findlay.” The GVSU women’s indoor track and field team hit 15 provisional, and four automatic NCAA qualifying marks. On the other side, the GVSU men hit three provisional marks and one automatic NCAA qualifying mark. “Some people we were trying to run fast and qualify for national championships and other people were sharpening up or backing down and resting,” Baltes said. “Both relays, men and women ran faster and a lot of sprinters dipped down and ran faster times. We had a very positive night across the board.” Two new school records were also set at the Tune Up meet. Sam Lockhart set the women’s shot put record (Lauren Buresh, 16.11 meters) with a throw of 16.16 meters. Lockhart also made an automatic NCAA qualifier in the weight throw, with a toss of 20.34 meters. On the men’s side, the relay team of Nathaniel Hammersmith, Chris Teitsma, Mohamed Mohamed and Logan Hofferman set
a new record in the 4x400 relay (Hammersmith, Xavier Parnell, Mohamed, Hoffman; 3 minutes and 15.36 seconds) with a time of 3:15.15. “We just wanted to come out in our events and run great times, so when the competition comes, we will be ready,” Mohamed said. “We wanted our confidence to go up by coming out here and running fast times.” The Tune Up meet was the last chance for runners to work out the kinks for the GLIAC Championship, and many runners looked forward to this opportunity. “For some people that haven’t done so well in the last meet, this was a chance where we can try to get back in the swing of things,” said sophomore Jeremy Wilk. “I think this is a good way to get back on the trail. I think we are in very good shape as long as we stay focused I think we have a good chance at winning GLIAC’s. There was an intermission honoring the graduating seniors and their accomplishments. This was their last indoor track meet at GVSU. “Anytime a group of seniors passes through your program, you want to do something to show your appreciation,” Baltes said. “We appreciate all the hard work, the energy, the time, effort and determination. They accomplished quite a bit, including three national championship banners. We are really proud in each and every one of them and what they have given to the program.” The Lakers will be back in action Friday in Findlay, Ohio, for the GLIAC Championship. bderouin@lanthorn.com
GVL / Robert Mathews
Keeping pace: Senior distance runner Betsy Graney keeps up with the pack at the 2012 Grand Valley State University Big Meet, which took place at GVSU on Feb. 11.
B2 SPORTS M .
Grand Valley Lanthorn MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2012
T E N N I S
R O W I N G
City success Lakers settle into their groove at City Tournament BY Joe Maher-Edgin GVL STAFF WRITER
To say the Grand Valley State University’s men’s tennis team faced tough, local opposition this weekend would probably be an understatement. Senior Josh Kazdan, a four-year member of the team, said he noticed quite a difference at this year’s Grand Rapids City Tournament, held Friday and Saturday at Orchard Hills. “The Grand Rapids teams around the city are certainly getting stronger,” Kazdan said. Head coach John Black was impressed with his Laker side, which picked up three victories — two doubles wins and an outstanding singles performance in the third flight from senior Marc Roesslein. He agreed with Kazdan in conceding that there was tough opposition from all corners of the city out on the courts. “Everybody picked up at least one or two wins in their tournament flight brackets, which is pretty good considering Aquinas is a top 15 team nationally and Calvin, Davenport and Hope all have solid teams this year,” Roesslein said. Apart from Aquinas College, Davenport University,
Courtesy Photo / trojannavy.com
Making a splash: GVSU rowers compete in Sunday’s CRASH-B World Indoor Rowing Championships in Boston, where they faced off against top-tier athletes from around the world.
International affair GVL / Kaitlyn Bowman
Ready and set: Senior Marc Roesslein anticipates the ball during the Grand Rapids City Tournament last weekend.
Hope College and Calvin College, GVSU also clashed with Grand Rapids Community College. The Lakers doubles were definitely a point of pride for Black, highlighted by freshmAan Zac Felice and senior Dan Jarboe’s 9-8 No. 4 doubles win over Calvin College’s Vashon Wright and Stephen Healey. “Our doubles teams are definitely playing better,” Black said. “None of our four pairings played together last year, so there is that adjustment to playing with a new partner. We’re definitely making progress and it’s a gradual process.” Apart from wins from
Andrew Darrell and Benny Delgado-Rochas in the No. 1 flight and Zac Felice and Dan Darboe in the No. 4 flight, each of the doubles teams reached the final match in their flights. “We definitely struggled against Calvin and Aquinas, but overall this was a huge improvement,” Darboe said. “It’s nice to see us meshing this well so early in our season.” The Lakers will be hoping to continue their good form Wednesday when they meet Northwood University at Ramblewood in their second regular season matchup. jmaheredgin@lanthorn.com
Free Pizza For participation in this Focus Group
Tuesday Feb 21
9pm Kirkhof 2270 Grand Valley Students and Faculty welcome! TOPIC: Campus Media and Consumer Behavior Questions: Email: awilkerson@lanthorn.com
Select GV rowers compete in World Indoor Rowing Championships BY Zach Sepanik GVL staff writer
S
ome of the best rowers from around the world competed Sunday in the World Indoor Rowing Championships at Boston University’s Agganis Arena, also known as the C.R.A.S.H.B. Sprints, including six Grand Valley State University club rowers who made the trip. “The chance to go up against people from around the world is pretty awesome,” said GVSU varsity assistant coach Lisa Saladino, who made the trip with the six athletes. “Not only to compete with them, but stack up fairly well with them. There is a great amount of pride for our athletes. I am just very proud of them.” Each athlete competed on an ergometer, not only testing their endurance, but how far they have come in their training up to this point in the season. It was a 2,000-meter race with both heavyweight and lightweight divisions. The women’s open heavy-
weight featured 196 competitors including athletes from the Vesper Boat Club, Monongahela Rowing Association and Temple University women’s crew. Junior Carey Mankins paced the Laker women, finishing 11th with a time of 7 minutes, 1.9 seconds. “After being picked to represent us, it is exciting and we all really wanted to show our teammates what we could do and show the rest of the competitors what Grand Valley can do,” Mankins said. “I was hoping to get under 7 minutes. I have another year to get there, though. Hopefully, I can come back next year and get that mark.” Freshman Kaitlyn VanBoven finished 33rd in 7:17.9. Meanwhile, in the women’s open lightweight race, junior Jessica Vogl, with a time of 7:40.2, finished 24th out of 71 competitors, which included athletes from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and New York University Crew, among others. “This race gives them
something to look forward to in the drudgery of indoor training, just like in any sport,” said GVSU head coach John Bancheri. “They all busted their butts.” In the men’s open heavyweight race, junior Nate Biolchini led the Lakers with a personal-record time of 6:06.3, good enough for 17th place out of the 251 competitors. Junior Ryan Kasley finished in 53rd with a time of 6:14.0. “I surprised myself,” Biolchini said. “My original goal was 6:15 and then yesterday I re-evaluated and wanted to go 6:10. Once I sat down, it just went, and it went quick.” For Biolchini, it is his first year at Grand Valley since he transferred from Oakland Community College and also his first year rowing. According to Bancheri, his time of 6:06.3 on Sunday is equivalent to running a mile in under four minutes. And he did it against top-tier competition from Harvard University, the U.S. Naval Academy, Yale University Crew and others. “It was cool to know that I am part of a club program versus a varsity program where everybody is getting full scholarships,” Biolchini said. “I got a little nervous at the beginning, but then once we started and I jumped out front, it felt pretty good.” In the men’s open lightweight division, junior Dominic Kootsillas-Conybeare finished 52nd out of 107 athletes, with a time of 6:49.8. The race featured competitors from the Riverside Boat Club, Team RemoMexico, and Westerville Rowing Club. The GVSU crew team now prepares for their Spring Break trip to Sarasota, Fla., that will include a dual meet against Georgia Tech University’s club team. zsepanik@lanthorn.com
SPORTS B3
Grand Valley Lanthorn MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2012 M .
B A S K E T B A L L
W .
Lakers’ hot streak cools after pair of road losses
B A S K E T B A L L
BY Brady Fredericksen GVL Sports Editor
Coming into their final regular-season road trip of the season, the Grand Valley State University men’s basketball team appeared to be peaking at the right time. After struggling midway through the season, the team had rediscovered their winning ways and appeared primed to continue their fourgame winning streak. That is, until they played the games, where the University of Findlay and Wayne State University had other plans. The Lakers’ winning streak was stymied as the team dropped both games, flipping its winning streak into a losing streak. Despite the 80-67 final, it was the Lakers’ (14-11, 10-8 GLIAC) offense that kept them in their game at Wayne State (16-8, 13-5 GLIAC) on Saturday. Led by senior guard James Thomas’ 28 points, the Lakers trailed by nine at halftime despite shooting 62 percent from the field and getting 15 of their 32 first-half points from their senior scorer. “We were in the game … as it went on, we just were never able to really consistently stop them,” said GVSU head coach Ric Wesley. “I just didn’t think we were tough enough, we weren’t physically and mentally tough enough to sustain the kind of execution and effort that you have to have in order to win on the road against good teams. Thomas continued his offensive outburst in the second half, and the Lakers cut the Warriors’ lead to five points with 12:02 remaining, but two fouls in under a minute put Thomas on the bench and the GVSU offense stalled while Wayne State continued to shoot well. The Warriors made nine 3-pointers in the game, and were led in scoring by senior center Ike Udanoh, who scored 20 points while pulling down seven rebounds. Three other Wayne State players scored in double figures, assisting in the Warriors’ second-half run to seal the game. “That’s kind of life on the road,” Wesley said. “Teams tend to play better at home and certainly shoot the ball a lot better. I thought our offense was ok, JT was tremendous, but today we just couldn’t stop them.” The game marked the end of the Lakers’ most difficult
GVL / Bo Anderson
Direct line: GVSU’s Briauna Taylor drives into the lane against Ashland on Thursday night.
Offensive balance leads GV to 72-55 victory over Wayne State GVL / Bo Anderson
Hands off: Ashland’s TJ Riggs fouls GVSU’s Ryan Sabin as he attacks the basket in Thursday night’s win over Ashland.
“I thought our offense was OK, JT was tremendous, but today we just couldn’t stop them.” ric wesley head coach
road trip of the season, and the team saw a similar result on Thursday in their 68-57 loss at the University of Findlay. Nearly perfect at home, the Oilers (19-6, 13-5 GLIAC) forced the Lakers into 17 turnovers and led by as many as 21 points. “That home court advantage gave Findlay a lot of attitude and they were pretty aggressive,” Thomas said. “I thought we played pretty good coming down the stretch though, we need to just put up 40-consecutive minutes of playing hard.” While the Lakers failed to follow Thomas’ lead on Saturday — only junior guard Breland Hogan scored more than eight points — the supporting cast played well
while Thomas struggled on Thursday. The senior scored only two points, but junior guard Tony Peters added 16 points and four 3-pointers, while senior center Nick Waddell added 10 points and seven rebounds off the bench. Despite the rough trip, the Lakers will need to regain focus soon with their season finale against rival Ferris State University on Saturday at Fieldhouse Arena at 8 p.m. “I think it will fuel us and give us energy,” Thomas said. “We’re looking forward to it being senior day and playing Ferris, we just want to come out there and get a win going into the conference tournament.” sports@lanthorn.com
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BY Stephanie Deible
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I
njuries have slowed down the Grand Valley State University women’s basketball team throughout the heart of their conference schedule, but the Lakers showed no signs of fatigue in their last road game of the season. GVSU (10-15, 7-11 GLIAC) exploded in a 72-55 victory over the Wayne State University (11-14, 6-12 GLIAC), an offense output well above their 59.3 points-per-game average, that snapped a seven-game losing streak. “It was good to see all eight of our kids be able to contribute (Saturday),” said GVSU head coach Janel Burgess. “I thought we played very, very good defense to be able to hold a team to 55 points again, which we have not done in the last three games.” With only eight players at full strength, Burgess and the Lakers have put a great emphasis on holding teams below the 60-point mark to put them in a position to earn a victory. “We really wanted to be ready to play a full 40 minutes,” junior guard Briauna Taylor said. “We wanted to concentrate on getting defensive stops.” Although the Laker defense returned to form after giving up over 70 points in their previous three contests, it was the balance within the Laker offense that stole the show. “Our inside kids Lindsay (McCarty), Emily (England) and Daina (Grazulis) are continuing to come along,” Burgess said. “Our kids on the outside have good confidence to get them the ball and penetrate, giving us good balance on the inside and outside. It has taken some pressure off of Briauna Taylor.” England and Grazulis combined for 13
points and eight rebounds off the bench for GVSU in the win. Despite the emergence of the Lakers’ inside play, Taylor sparked the team from the opening tip and GVSU never looked back. The junior, who grew up near Detroit in Livonia, Mich., and was playing in front of a hometown crowd, nailed a 3-pointer to open the game and went on to score 21 of GVSU’s 48 points. Taylor said she always looks forward to going home and playing in front of her family and friends. With five minutes left to go in the contest, the Lakers held a 66-44 lead and used three steals to close out the game. “We finally just had to bond together,” said McCarty, who scored four points and grabbed three rebounds in the win. “We started rough against Findlay and (Saturday) we started on the right note. Offensively, everything was there and defensively, we went back to our standards and principals that we’ve always had, but have gotten away from the past few games.” On Thursday, Taylor became the 21st player in GVSU history to score 1,000 career points. However, the Lakers offense could not find its rhythm in a 78-67 loss to the University of Findlay (14-11, 8-10 GLIAC). Taylor said she was motivated at the start of Thursday’s game, knowing she only needed 11 points in order to reach the 1,000-point mark. Despite Taylor’s milestone, GVSU struggled from the floor and ended the game shooting at a 39 percent clip. GVSU will close out the regular season on Saturday at 1 p.m. against Ferris State University in the Fieldhouse Arena. assistantsports@lanthorn.com
B4 laker life
Grand Valley Lanthorn MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2012
lakerlife@lanthorn.com
L A K E R L I F E E D I TO R R A C H E L M E L K E
Winter career fair to showcase 5,300 jobs BY HANNAH MATRO GVL STAFF WRITER
Grand Valley State University student Kristina Green is on track to graduate this spring. In the fall, Green decided to visit the fall career fair, not knowing what would come of it. “At the fall career fair, I met with a recruiter from Quicken Loans,” Green said. “He suggested I go online to apply for an open position. While I wasn’t able to accept the open position as I still had a semester of school left to go, I was able to establish a connection with the company and have now interviewed with them for their summer internship program.” Many, like Green, have found success at GVSUsponsored career fairs, a biannual event put on by Career Services. The winter career fair will take place in the DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids on Thursday from 1 to 5 p.m. Featured at the fair will be 168 employers from the greater Grand Rapids area to offer 5,300 jobs to students from GVSU as well as 10 other participating schools. College students and professionals are encouraged to attend the free event to increase their chances of landing a job or internship. By meeting employers faceto-face, applicants have a chance to sell themselves and stand out, something that is difficult to do through online applications. GVSU has hosted a career fair consecutively for at least 26 years. While job placement is hard to gauge, the number of employers returning to these fairs to recruit is a good indicator of the economy’s status. Although employers have been tentative the last few years, opportunities are opening up. Employers will offer jobs
GVL / Eric Coulter
Good taste: Bobby Springer, assistant director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs, leads a volunteer group in a Black History Month event last week. OMA hosted Friday’s event, as well.
Food for the soul OMA serves up soul food for Black History Month BY JOEL CAMPBELL GVL STAFF WRITER
A GVL Archive
Dressed for success: A student speaks with an employer at last year’s fair. This year’s Career Fair will be held this Thursday.
and internships in a wide variety of disciplines such as business and non-profit and public sectors as well as the health care field, which is looking for people outside of health majors as well including those relating to marketing, human resources, and security. The Winter Career Fair is open to students of all disciplines and ages. The fair may be beneficial even if a particular student or graduate is not looking for a job, said Susan Proctor, assistant director of GVSU Career Services. “It’s never too early to start looking,” Proctor said. “It’s good to have an understanding of what types of
businesses and jobs are out there.” Last year, 1,200 total students and alumni attended the fair. Most employers will meet with between 10 and 50 of these students, whom they will screen based upon qualifications, experience and the ability to communicate effectively. “There are jobs out there, and there is hope for students,” Proctor said. “You need to come to the fair.” Students are encouraged to research companies beforehand, bring resumes and dress professionally. Some preparation info is available on the website, www.gvsu. edu/careerfairs. hmatro@lanthorn.com
s Grand Valley State University’s Kirkhof Center began to fill Friday with the sights and smells of soul food, lines of anxious faculty and students began to form. Enticed and encouraged by volunteers proclaiming “free food,” attendees began a journey into both history and culinary art that was open to all. Hosted by the Office of Multicultural Affairs, “A Taste of Soul Food” offered students, faculty and staff the opportunity to try traditionally-made, historically-accurate soul foods. The menu items were modeled after the same foods made by African slaves before the civil rights movement, which were cooked with table scraps and any other foods that were easy to obtain. “Some of the items were leftover items,” said Bobby Springer, the associate director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs. “We don’t have it today, but pig
was one of the items that a lot of families ate many different parts.” An effort was made to preserve what little they could and in doing so, soul food was born. “It still has a wonderful taste,” Springer said. “I know I grew up on this type of food.” Due to its success last year, the OMA decided to bring the event back and plans on continuing it. The OMA has received widespread support from other university offices. “It’s a celebration of Black History Month and not a lot of people really know what soul food is all about,” said Brenda Mitchner, associate director of housing and residence life. The OMA asked for volunteers and Mitchner decided to help out. “I’m out here with my loud mouth saying ‘free food,’ but it gives them an opportunity to taste (it),” she said. The menu included candied yams, chicken, cornbread, collard greens and macaroni and cheese.
“Most European Americans don’t know what collard greens are,” Mitchner said. Springer mentioned that many students are shy or apprehensive about trying it, but once they do, they like it. Springer said macaroni and cheese seemed to be last year’s favorite dish. “Most people have macaroni and cheese, but there’s a craft that goes into this one that is a little bit different,” he said. The event opened at noon with two tables of food and a 30 minutes later, one table was gone and the second was running out. Springer said he sees the event as achieving two goals in one. “On the flip side of that, too, you have some people who are accustomed to this but they don’t have the chance to eat it unless they go back home or for holidays,” Springer said. “It gives them the opportunity to have it as well.” jcampbell@ lanthorn.com
A cause worth indulging in
GVL Archive
Digging in: Bart Merkle, dean of students at GVSU, gathers with colleagues around the table at a past Indulge in a Cause event.
Women’s Center to host fundraiser to help benefit scholarships for non-traditional students at GV BY HANNAH MATRO GVL STAFF WRITER
Scholarship opportunities for nontraditional students can be sparse and competitive, but the Grand Valley State University Women’s Center will host a chocolate-drizzled fundraiser on Thursday to benefit their scholarship program. The annual event, Indulge in a Cause, will feature an assortment of chocolate treats and a silent auction. The fundraiser begins at 5 p.m. Thursday in the Eberhard Center on the Pew
Campus, and ends at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for students and $30 for community members. In addition to benefiting the Women’s Center’s scholarship fund, it will also benefit their endowment fund. “As the Women’s Center celebrates its 10th anniversary, we are excited about our plans to sustain our gender justice and leadership education work,” said Marlene Kowalski-Braun, director of the Women’s Center. “Our annual fundraiser helps to make our vision a reality.” Cabot Cheese, Rocky Mountain
Chocolate Factory and San Chez Bistro will provide desserts throughout the night. The silent auction will include a day spa package, an Apple iPad and a night on the town package in the Grand Rapids area. The event is co-sponsored by Founders Bank and Trust and the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation. Reserve tickets by calling the Women’s Center at 616-331-2748 or purchase them online at www.gvsu.edu/ women_cen/. hmatro@lanthorn.com
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Grand Valley Lanthorn MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2012
MARKETPLACE Announcements GVSU Facilities Services thanks you for helping to reduce energy, natural gas and water costs by making small changes to your daily routine! GVSU Facilities Services thanks you for helping to reduce energy, natural gas and water costs by making small changes to your daily routine! Looking for a good deal on GREAT pizza’s downtown? Check out Vinny’s Pizza and Sub Shop located at 1220 W. Fulton (next to JohnBall Park-Zoo). Bring in the coupon from this issue for a 14” pizza for only $7.42! Call (616) 235-7255 for more information.
Roommates First floor apartment. 48 West for sublease next year! Very close to bus stop and commons. Three bedrooms open. Please contact me (248)982-3180 or sundberc@mail.gvsu.edu. Subleaser needed! May-July 2012. 4 bed townhome. Rent $430/month. Guest parking pas and residential parking pass free. Extra room available. Contact Stephanie at ewings@mail.gvsu.edu. Subleaser needed. 2012-2013 school year. Mystic Woods. Lease starts mid-August. Rent is $415/month. Free parking and maintenance. 4bed/4.5bath. Contact Sarah at katshouls@mail.gvsu.edu
Employment Make lifelong friends. The Island House Hotel and Ryba’s Fudge Shops are looking for help in all areas: Front desk, Bell Staff,Wait Stuff, Sales Clerks, Kitchen, Baristas. Housing, bonus and discounted meals. (906)-847-7196 www.theislandhouse.com The Fred Meijer Center for Writing and Michigan Authors is now hiring writing consultants. Students of all majors are invited to apply. Visit gvsu.edu/wc for more information and to apply.
Housing At 48west enjoy individual leases, private bathrooms, on-site bus stop & much more! Call today for leasing information 616-895-2400, 48west@48west.info, www.48west.com Boltwood Apartments, Pet-Friendly, Huge Bedrooms, & a Bus Stop. Leases start at $395.00 per month. Call today to schedule a tour. 616-895-5875. www.boltwoodgvsu.com Campus View, live close to campus and get the most for your money. Apartments and Townhouses available, Leases start at $285.00 per month. Call Today! 616-895-6678 or visit www.campusviewhousing.co m Boltwood Apartments, Pet-Friendly, Huge Bedrooms, & a Bus Stop. Leases start at $395.00 per month. Call today to schedule a tour. 616-895-5875. www.boltwoodgvsu.com
Internships
Internships Cont.
Sloan Transportation Products, Inc. Job Title: Engineer Intern Location: Holland, MI Salary: Paid Search Job ID: 15561507 For more information visit www.gvsu.edu/lakerjobs/
Maurices Job Title: Store Management Internship Location: Grand Rapids, MI Salary: $12/hr. Search Job ID: 15561628 For more information visit www.gvsu.edu/lakerjobs
IPA Management Job Title: Marketing Intern Location: Grand Haven, MI Search Job ID: 15561447 For more information visit www.gvsu.edu/lakerjobs/
Stifel, Nicolaus & Co., LLC Job Title: Financial Advising Intern Location: Grand Rapids, MI Search Job ID: 15561552 For more information visit www.gvsu.edu/lakerjobs
The First Tee Job Title: Internship Opportunity Location: Grand Rapids, MI Salary: Unpaid Search Job ID: 15561521 For more information visit www.gvsu.edu/lakerjobs Emerson Climate Technologies Job Title: Corporate Safety Internship Location: Sidney, OH Search Job ID: 1551718 For more information visit www.gvsu.edu/lakerjobs Entropy Enterprise Job Title: Film/Video Internships Location: Grand Rapids, MI Search Job ID: 15561699 For more information visit www.gvsu.edu/lakerjobs
Louis Padnos Iron & Metal Company Job Title: Padnos Metal Trading Intern Location: Grand Rapids, MI Salary: $9/hr. Search Job ID: 15561559 For more information visit www.gvsu.edu/lakerjobs MAHLE Industries, Inc. Job Title: Intern- Sales & Application Engineering Location: Farmington Hills, MI Search Job ID: 15561563 For more information visit www.gvsu.edu/lakerjobs NuVescor Group Job Title: Business Development Intern Location: Grand Rapids, MI Salary: Paid Search Job ID: 15561612 For more information visit www.gvsu.edu/lakerjobs
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FREE CLASSIFIEDS FOR STUDENTS, FACULTY AND STAFF some restrictions apply FOR COMMERCIAL RATES CALL 616-331-2460 classifieds@lanthorn.com
Miscellaneous Get Caught Promotion. Rules and Restrictions. Only one student or faculty is a winner per issue. Readers will be chosen at random throughout the week on campus. The prize awarded is to-be-determined at random but may include gift cards, t-shirts, etc. Winners are requested to have their picture taken and answer some questions to be published in the Lanthorn.
Opportunities Bartending. No Experience Needed. High income potential. Training courses available.Call 1-800-965-6520 ext. 226 Stop by the Winter 2012 Career Fair on Thursday, February 23. Located in the Devos Place Convention Center from 1-5pm. Visit www.gvsu.edu/careerfairs for more information. Get in the game! RecycleMania: Campus Challenge, January 22-March 31. Join thousands of college students across the nation and help GVSU bring home the RecycleMania title! Visit gvsu.edu and click on our web banner. Stop by the Winter 2012 Career Fair on Thursday, February 23. Located in the Devos Place Convention Center from 1-5pm. Visit www.gvsu.edu/careerfairs for more information.
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Grand Valley Lanthorn MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2012