What’s Inside: Step Tease shows Bobby Pierce looks students another back on his time at Troy side of greek life Sports, pg. 8 A&E, pg. 7

Troy University’s Official Student Newspaper ROPOLITAN Vol. 88, Issue 02 www.TropNews.com August 21, 2014 Adjuncts teach courses ‘as needed’ Cassie Gibbs fields they have experience in. Ingram said. “Truly, some of the provost of academic affairs, RSA (the Retirement Systems of News Editor Adjuncts also regularly teach best developmental English or explained how the number of ) or receive benefits.” remedial or general courses. math teachers that we have are hours taught is related to the The Southern Association of Josh Richards “On this campus last fall, 85 active or retired high school extension of benefits to faculty Colleges and Schools (SACS), Staff Writer percent of credit hours produced teachers with a master’s in that members. along with specialized accredi- were by full-time (faculty),” field.” “By law, if you work 20 hours tation groups for 11 of Troy’s administra- Ingram said. “For the univer- According to Ingram, an a week,” Vardaman said, “you degree programs, determines tion discussed adjunct faculty sity as a whole, including online adjunct is not allowed to teach must be included in the Retire- the allocation of full-time and members’ livelihood and their and out of state, 70 percent more than eight hours per term ment Systems of Alabama. The part-time faculty on campus. role as instructors with the were taught by full-time. On or semester. Full-time faculty interesting thing about that is SACS requires that 50 percent Tropolitan. this campus, that 15 percent normally teach 12 credit hours for a full-time faculty member, of the credit hours taught must The Tropolitan asked Earl taught by adjuncts includes per semester: four courses in one argument could be made be by full-time faculty. The re- Ingram, senior vice chancellor all remedial courses. This fall, the fall and four in the spring. that teaching is roughly half of quirements set by SACS must for academic affairs, to explain of the 22 remedial courses in If an adjunct were needed to their workload.” be met in order for the univer- how adjuncts are used at Troy math, all 22 are being taught by teach nine hours or more, the Full-time teachers have extra sity to receive accreditation. after an opinion column on the adjuncts. Of the 27 upper-level university would be obligated to responsibilities outside of their Adjuncts are paid per course. topic appeared in the paper last courses in math, only one is extend benefits, such as an offer course loads, such as advising At Troy University, adjuncts are week. being taught by an adjunct.” to join the healthcare system and research, according to paid around $2,400 per course, Troy’s policy manual states The higher-level courses and the retirement fund. Vardaman. or around $800 per credit hour, that an adjunct, or part-time are usually taught by faculty The policy handbook states: “That nine hours comes in Ingram said. He said Troy pays faculty member, is “employed members who are full-time, “Adjunct faculty members are because it was the best rule of adjuncts about 80 percent more to provide specific courses on either tenure-track or non-ten- not eligible for fringe benefits, thumb we could come up with than community colleges pay to an as-needed basis.” Adjuncts ure track, and who also have nor does service in this capacity based on guidance from the teach the same nine hour course. are hired by course. master’s degrees or Ph.D.’s in lead to or count toward tenure regulatory commission and Ingram said that many Ingram said that adjunct their fields. or promotion to the regular other groups,” Vardaman said. hires are typically used to “To teach a developmental academic ranks.” “Below nine hours, it does not teach specialized courses in the course, you don’t need a Ph.D.,” Lee Vardaman, associate meet the requirement to go into See Adjuncts, page 2 Decal price Hands up, Don’t Shoot raise not new Jojo McBride Staff Writer

Campus parking is a major issue for the students this semester, especially with the construction of Alumni Hall last spring. Herbert Reeves, dean of April Irvin photo students at Troy Universi- ty, recently answered some questions about the rising Students help raise awareness of Ferguson shooting parking decal fees. Alphonso Lewis, a senior biomedical sciences major from Montgomery and the Non-Panhellenic Council president and Many students are brother of Kappa Alpha Psi, promoted the No Hands, Don’t Shoot event at Troy University on Monday. This movement is in re- wondering about the rising sponse to the fatal shooting of teenager Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. The belief that Brown was a victim of violence decal price from last year's inspired the event, which caught the attention of many groups on campus. The event was created in order to raise aware- price of $50 to the current ness of the shooting and to show support to the victim’s family and those affected by the event. price of $75. All money from decal sales goes toward main- taining campus parking lots, which includes re- Troy faculty members accept painting the parking lots, fixing any problems in the lots, such as curbs, and building new parking ice bucket challenge for ALS lots, such as the new lot by spinal cord and from the raise money for whatever . Cassie Gibbs spinal cord to the muscles charity the person chal- “Now that it’s $75 for News Editor throughout the body.” lenged liked. decal, $50 for a parking tag When these neurons Chris Kennedy, a minor- people are probably going This week, Troy Uni- die, the connection from league pro golfer, helped to get the tag and save the versity faculty members the brain to the muscles make ALS the focus of $25, so the revenue into have been taking part in is lost, leaving the person the challenge and started a the decal fees is probably the social media craze with no control over the trend that has now raised going to decrease,” Reeves known as the ALS Ice part of the body affected. over $22 million for ALS said. Bucket Challenge. Some people with ALS research. Reeves said that the ALS stands for amyo- have even experienced The challenge, now decal price raise would trophic lateral sclerosis, complete paralysis. used to raise awareness hopefully help boost tag otherwise known as Lou Approximately 5,600 of the disease, has been sales, which would not Gehrig's disease. people are diagnosed with performed by celebrities only advertise for Troy Hannah Crew Photo According to alsa.org, ALS yearly in the US. and athletes. ALS is a “progressive University but also put Robbyn Taylor, a lecturer at Troy’s School of The Ice Bucket , neurodegenerative disease Challenge, which requires longtime head coach of more money into the Journalism and Communication, accepted the that affects nerve cells in a person to have a bucket the Troy football team, Trojan Pride Scholarship. Ice Bucket Challenge this Tueday. She chal- Reeves expressed the the brain and the spinal of ice water poured over lenged Jeff Spurlock, the director of the Hall cord. Motor neurons his or her head, was School of Journalism and Communication. See Decal, page 2 reach from the brain to the originally meant to help See Ice, page 2 News Page 2 | [email protected] August 21, 2014 Library dean focused on student outreach Lilly Casolaro looking at is maybe rearranging things Staff Writer in here. You can have more opportunities for group discussion and group projects, Josh Richards that kind of thing.” Staff Writer Shaffer has also lined up several events for students. University officials have chosen "We have a book discussion series Chris Shaffer as the new dean of library coming up this fall called Muslim services. Shaffer has been a part of the Journeys, " he said. "Books are free to University's staff since 2005 and has the first 25 students who want one. The served as the director of the Dothan only agreement is you have to come to Campus Library since 2007. the discussions.” Dallas Cooper photo He follows longtime dean Henry In addition, the library will be showing The SGA met this Tuesday in its first meeting of the new school year. Stewart, who retired. three different exhibits, which will begin Several resolutions were placed on docket to be voted on next week. "The Dean oversees all aspects of next week and run until the Thanksgiving Some of these resolutions included having the option to have prayer at library services," Chaffer said. "I was the holidays. Troy University sponsored events and before meetings. SGA president director of the Dothan campus, so part of The exhibits will be shown in six-week Matthew Thompson, a junior double majoring in accounting and eco- the deal here is I will continue to directly intervals and will cover a selection of nomics, welcomed both veteran and new senate members. oversee the Dothan library.” topics, including the Holocaust, the As for the Troy Campus library, Shaffer Tuskegee Airmen and the experiences plans to emphasize student involvement of women entering the workforce during and what he calls “outreach.” World War II. SGA holds first meeting While he acknowledges the library is Shaffer thinks students will respond Chase Robinson would establish that the and Trojan Village three already widely used by the student popu- well to these outreach and diverse Editor-in-Chief 2014-15 SGA will say a seats. lation, Shaffer believes there is potential learning opportunities outside of the prayer as part of every Another amendment classroom. to attract an even greater number of Cassie Gibbs meeting. would increase the senate students. "I think they're going to respond News Editor Resolution 2014-012 election application fee A remodeling of the library, aimed at very positively because I think students would establish that the from $5 to $10. increasing student volume and interac- naturally want to learn,” Shaffer said. SGA say the Pledge of Al- An amendment to move The Student Govern- tion, is being looked at as a possibility. “That's why they're here. I think students legiance at the beginning Homecoming elections to ment Association put two "One of the things we're going to be want to be actively engaged.” of every meeting so long the week before Home- resolutions concerning as an American flag is coming was also put on prayer on docket at its first present. docket. fall meeting Tuesday. This resolution will There will be an election Resolution 2014-010 allow the senators vote to fill 17 senate vacancies would allow prayer at on whether the prayer on Wednesday, Sept. 3, Blocher new CCFA events sponsored by the will be said before every from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ap- Staff Report lives enriched through the arts. university such as athletic meeting of the SGA. This plications and the $10 fee events and formal gradua- “Dr. Blocher understands the crucial decision is part of a group are due to the SGA office Larry Blocher, director of the John tions during the 2014-15 role the fine arts play on our campus and of standing rules that are by noon Friday, Aug. 29. M. Long School of Music, has been school year. beyond. He is the right leader to take this voted on by the Senate The application form is appointed dean of the College of Com- Amber Voss, a senior college into a new era of success.” every year, according to available at trojan.troy. munication and Fine Arts. political science major Blocher was named director of the Voss. edu/sga. Blocher will take over from Don from Wetumpka and music school in 2005 and will continue Amendments that The constitutions for Jeffrey, interim dean and senior vice chair of constitution and in this capacity. would reapportion senate student groups Troy Voice chancellor of the global campus. rules, said that this reso- seats were also introduced of Justice and the Troy “Dr. Blocher has proven himself a Carla Gallahan, an associate professor lution will help voice the to Troy’s Student Govern- Ultimate Frisbee Club capable leader and an extraordinary of music, has been appointed the assistant opinions of the Senate to ment Association at its were also put on docket. advocate for student success during his director of the music school. perform the prayer at Troy first meeting Tuesday. Freshman Forum ap- time as a professor of music and director John M. Long, namesake of the school University events. These amendments plications were also of the John M. Long School of Music,” of music and one of its previous directors, “We want to allow the would split the two announced. Troy Chancellor Jack Hawkins Jr. said also served as dean of the then-College practice of prayer at Troy Alumni Hall seats These applications in a press release. “The fine arts and hu- of Fine Arts. University sponsored between the Newman can be found online. The manities play an important role at Troy Prior to coming to Troy, Blocher was a events,” Voss said. “It’s Center and Trojan Village. deadline for applications not only for our students, faculty and professor of music, associate director of not requiring prayer, but This would give the is Thursday, Aug. 28, at 4 staff but also for the public at large who the school of music and director of music we want the option.” Newman Center two seats p.m. attend our performances and have their education at Wichita State University. Resolution 2014-011

Adjuncts continued from page 1

part-time faculty hired are full-time faculty at another institution. According to Ingram, faculty costs equal one-third of the total university budget. “It must be tightly managed,” he said. “If it gets out of control, it will drive up tuition.”

Auburn pay over $80 per parking zone. Decals year for a parking permit. “Around the residence continued from page 1 Price changes in parking halls, because that parking permits are not new to the is designated for the importance of the uni- university. residents, we do write versity wanting to help its Thirty years ago, tickets at night,” Reeves students. “Even though parking decals were $25 said. people may be paying and increased over time; The university offers an for the tag,” Reeves said, Reeves thinks that decal alternative mode of trans- “some of that money is prices may increase more portation to students who going back to help support in the future. need to access campus but students who are going to Students are not the do not want to purchase a school here. This certainly only ones affected by the tag or a parking decal. benefits the students and increase in decal prices. Troy University benefits the university by All administrators, provides shuttle transpor- having this scholarship faculty and staff that work tation to and from most fund.” for Troy University and apartments and living The Trojan Pride Schol- operate a vehicle on Troy quarters that are close to arship is available to all University property must campus. There is even a Troy University students, have a tag or decal as well. night shuttle available for no matter which campus The parking decals graduate students who they choose to study on. allow students to park in have night classes. Troy University has certain zones according to Decal revenue will be a lower price rate for their housing situation and looked at over the next parking compared to their classification. week after the majority other Alabama universi- A student can get a of tag and decal sales are ties. Students in universi- ticket, even at night, for done to compare tag sales ties such as Alabama or parking in the wrong to decal sales. Features August 21, 2014 [email protected] | Page 3 Quintuplets on campus Samantha Vick nest as “wildly exciting.” living with his siblings. Staff Writer “It is neat watching them discover what they want to At home in Montgomery, the Guttensohns shared do with their lives,” she said. two bedrooms and two bathrooms. They are grateful With the fall semester beginning, many students may There have not only been major adjustments back for their modified space in Troy because they finally be feeling homesick; however, the Guttensohn quin- home, but Troy has also made a minor adjustment to have their own bedrooms. tuplets have found a creative way to bring their home housing for them. Separate rooms allow the brothers some privacy, with them. The quints having received full scholarships, the but when they miss each other, they simply go into the Born on Aug. 8, 1996, Mason, Tanner, Hunter, Parker university provided them with a modified room. This living area to hang out and study. and Taylor all received scholarships to Troy University modified room is in Trojan Village 100 and contains an “Although the living area is smaller than the rest of at birth. extra bedroom in the living room area. the ones in Trojan Village, we would not have known “Rooming together seemed to be the most efficient Mason stated that if they had not received scholar- what to do with the extra space anyways,” Parker said. way for Troy to handle our scholarship,” Mason said. ships, Troy still would have been their choice because Do not believe that the quintuplets are all alike, they love the campus so much. Taylor added that it was the “smartest decision.” though. Mason, Hunter and Parker are all undecided in their After living together for 18 years, they already knew They have differences in both appearances and majors. Taylor is majoring in athletic training, while their roommates very well. Tanner is majoring in marine biology. “It’s like we did not even leave home,” Taylor said. hobbies. Here are some fun facts about the brothers: “I loved Troy and was greatly involved in their “Except, Mom and Dad cannot clean anything for • Mason can juggle. campus outreach,” said their mother, Amy, who us — we are left to do that on our own,” Hunter said. • Tanner took a glass-blowing course. graduated in 1991. Parker agreed that one of the best things about living • Hunter loves photography. Her husband, Eric, got his master’s degree at Troy with siblings is the accountability that comes with it. • Taylor weighed less than a pound at one point after University in Montgomery. This is how Troy Univer- “Parker got to pick which bathroom he wanted, and he was born. sity discovered the quintuplets. so now I have to share a bathroom with Parker and • Parker says the coolest fact about him is that he is Amy describes the experience of having an empty Tanner,” Mason said when asked the worst thing about a quintuplet.

April Irvin photo The quintuplets lounge in the modified living room of their dorm. The doorway to their fifth bed- room can be seen to the far left. Pictured left to right: Tanner, Parker, Mason, Taylor and Hunter. New sorority sister pleasantly surprised Tori Roper pated in preference night, and finally came Staff Writer to a conclusion on Bid Day. Although she said the process is Stereotypes and rumors about the “nerve-racking” due to the possibility of Greek lifestyle may deter some students being dropped, the payoff of making the from joining a fraternity or sorority. cut is “a great feeling.” For Andi Staton, a freshman marketing Once the women are in their groups, major from Clay, rushing and finding her they visited the sorority houses to learn place in a sorority family were unexpect- about each sorority’s philanthropy and ed dreams come true. what is important to them. Preference Staton is now an Alpha in Alpha Delta night was a night for the remaining Pi. women to give the sororities an idea of Most freshmen know well before where they wanted to be. they start college that they want to rush. Thursday was the day that the women Staton “wasn’t sure about the whole were asked back to houses. Each woman thing” to begin with. However, she said could be asked back to four houses she is extremely happy with her decision. maximum; Staton was asked back to two. “They tell us to be open-minded,” she This included “deep conversations,” said when asked about the beginning of Staton said. Each woman put in her rush. preferred sorority and hoped that sorority The experience changed her perspec- asked for her on Bid Day. tive on sororities, showing her that they Bid Day was where it all came to an are not as stereotypical as most people end. Each woman who was left received a believe. card with the sorority that had chosen her. Staton felt that rushing was a good The Pi Chi leaders revealed their so- way to meet people and get plugged into rorities before running to their houses. college. She said that it definitely helped When the women opened their cards, her transition more smoothly. She wanted they ran to the houses of the sorority that that “sisterhood bond,” and she was one chose them. By running to the houses, of the women who got it. the new pledges accepted the bids. At the beginning of Rush, the women “My feelings on Bid Day were ner- are divided into 16 different Pi Chi vousness, but mostly excitement because groups, which was Staton’s favorite part I got to be a part of something bigger of the rush process. than anything I’ve ever done before,” “I really got to know people because of Staton said. “Overall, I’m glad I decided the Pi Chi groups,” she said. to go Greek because it opens me up The women in each group stayed together to a lot of opportunities to give back throughout the entire week of Rush. The to the community and make lifelong women visited the sorority houses, partici- friendships.”

Tedric Davenport photo Despite initial apprehension, Andi Staton, a freshman marketing major from Clay, is now a proud member of Alpha Delta Pi. Opinion Page 4 | [email protected] August 21, 2014 Letter to the Editor: Troy understands and celebrates diversity Larry Fogelberg Assistant Professor Division of Economics and Finance

At the beginning of this new school year, it only makes sense to focus on what makes Troy University special and what makes the Troy campus particular- ly special. It would be impossible to talk about those without focusing on what makes the Troy community so special. We have become an international community, where our local residents, churches and civic groups have opened their arms to embrace our international students. With each new family that adopts an inter- national student, with each new local church that prepares food for our international students or super- vises a weekend trip for our international students, and with each new civic group that finds some new way Seth Nicholson to support our international students, we see our local community embracing the mission of our university. We can joke about the fact that Troy is one of the few ding any discussion of what those differences are, or rather a forced compliance with a secular world view. places where one can find a Japanese restaurant run by what those common values are. Thankfully, the Troy community understands what it a Korean, a Chinese restaurant run by an Indian, or an For instance, does “celebrating our diversity” mean is to truly “celebrate our diversity.” They understand Oriental specialty store run by a Romanian, but the fact remains that Troy celebrates its diversity. that a Christian cannot share the Gospel of Jesus Christ that any celebration of our diversity is a celebration of But what does it really mean to “celebrate our with our students? If that were true, then “celebrating American exceptionalism and of our unique Consti- diversity”? It would be absurd to think that we are even our diversity” would mean nothing more than ignoring tution which allows us to live together in spite of our able to celebrate our differences without the ability to our differences, or worse, pretending that they did not differences: a Constitution which acknowledges our call upon some body of common values, such as the exist. rights to freedom of speech and freedom of religion, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, that binds Does “celebrating our diversity” mean that we must whether we are Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Jews or us together in spite of those differences. It would just adopt the secular belief that all religious beliefs are even Christians. as absurd to think that celebrating our diversity must equally true and, corollary, equally false? That would The Troy community understands this, and hopefully, involve some gag rule of political correctness forbid- not entail any real celebration of our diversity, but so does the University. Despite Ferguson controversy, racial issues and white privileges are not a gray area

Ngoc Vo Feb. 26, 2012, unarmed 17-year-old divorce. Such obligation, again, illustrates Opinion Editor Trayvon Martin was fatally shot by Reporters covering the case against the white privileges. George Zimmerman, a neighborhood Steubenville, Ohio, rapists said that the “People become very sensitive when In light of the shooting of Mike watch volunteer, in Sanford, Florida. guilty verdict would ruin the assailants’ it comes to racial topics,” said Lakerri Brown, an allegedly unarmed teenager in July 17, Eric Garner from Staten “promising” lives. Mack, assistant professor of political Ferguson, Missouri, by a police officer, Island, New York, died after a police Such immediate media and popular science and adviser of the Troy chapter I want to take a closer look at the racial officer put him in a choke hold. sympathy is one of many white privileg- of the National Association for the Ad- problems (especially ones towards Afri- vancement of Colored People (NAACP). can-Americans) in Troy. “What’s happening in Ferguson, and Last year, a Troy student was in a nationally, is due to a lack of under- violent incident with police. standing. It is very important to have “What I learned from my situation and collegial communications over race and what went on in Ferguson is that more stereotypes.” than some of these cops will abuse their According to Troy NAACP President authority,” said Kaiyan Dixon, a former Quenton Martin, a junior social sciences Troy student from Troy, who was tased by campus police in October 2013. major from Tuscaloosa, African-Ameri- “When the race card is played, cans, particularly males, face a lot more everyone knows who’s being targeted,” prejudice than an average person. Dixon said. “All it takes is to be consid- “(People) don’t understand a lot of ered a suspect, and they feel like they can things we do, then they take it nega- handle you or the situation any kind of tively,” Martin said. “Like tennis shoes, way.” jeans and jersey are deemed derogatory. University Police Chief John McCall (The ways we talk, dress) are just our contradicts this claim, saying the officers culture. give the same treatment to everyone. “African-American males have been “Anytime you get into a confrontation portrayed as a subject to fear. We never with police, it’s gonna end bad regard- fit in. We are treated a bit overboard not less of race,” McCall said. “You should only from police but also from other comply with police. Take your fight to power authorities, from the workplace to court, not with us.” the classroom.” Ferguson’s police department Being a member of a public organiza- released its report of the incident after tion, Martin said in most cases, he has strong public demand. However, some to address issues in a very calm and witnesses’ claims conflict with the report. Photo courtesy of Twitter user @BuddhaLeeRaye professional manner, in order to not be “What gets to me the most is how A photo from Twitter’s trending hashtag #IfTheyGunnedMeDown police can say whatever they want and misinterpreted. “It is a privilege that I do not have,” it’s always their word over yours,” Dixon Aug. 9, unarmed teenager Mike Brown es in Western cultures. said. died after being shot multiple times by a I feel discouraged to discuss white Martin said. “When I speak, I cannot There are usually multiple angles on Ferguson, Missouri, police officer. privileges with my peers because more appear too strong, or too emotional, even incidents like this. They all seem like a Those are facts. So are these: often than not, I have to stress that I am when it is an emotional matter. big, gray area. At the same time, racial When Elliot Rodger went on a killing not saying white people are evil, or that “(As an African-American male), I am discrimination and white privileges are spree, The New York Times ran an article white people are the only ones who have already conceived as violent and agitated more of a black and white thing. They portraying him not as a criminal or a enjoyed privileges, resources and the by the media. I don’t want to be feared or exist. murderer, but as a “troubled” child of power of oppression. misjudged.”

Editorial Policies As Troy University’s official student opinion of the Tropolitan. Our opinions 500-700 words. Dissenting opinions are Letters to the editor must be signed by newspaper, the Tropolitan strives to serve are not influenced by campus organiza- welcomed, but all expressions are the sole the author, and a phone number must be student interests. The Opinion page is tions or societies, university administra- opinions of their authors and do not re- included. an outlet for Tropolitan editors to ques- tion or political parties. The first copy of flect the beliefs of the Tropolitan. All submissions must be word-processed tion university policies that do not benefit the Tropolitan is free to any student or and emailed to the Tropolitan by 5 p.m. Troy’s students, praise those that do and employee of Troy University. Each addi- Letters to the Editor on Monday. All submissions may not be call attention to national and state issues tional copy costs $1. The Tropolitan welcomes letters from that relate to students. The opinions ex- students, faculty, staff and non-Troy-affil- published. pressed here are not necessarily those of Guest Columns iated persons. Dissenting opinions and Submissions bashing groups or individ- Troy University or the Hall School of The Tropolitan encourages students, corrections are welcomed. uals on the basis of race, gender, age, eth- Journalism and Communication. faculty and staff at Troy University to The Tropolitan does not exclusively nic group, orientation or religious belief Editorials stand as the official, corporate express opinions in a guest column of print letters favorable to the newspaper. will not be printed. The Troy University Tropolitan Editor-in-Chief Features Editor Thomas Gleaton, Jessica Smith, Troy University’s Chase Robinson Alyse Nelson Beth Hyatt Student Newspaper Business Manager Variety Editor Staff Writers Graphic Design Editor Whitney Butler Grishma Rimal Tori Roper, Jamie Bennett, Parker Taylor Bowser News Editor McCann, Emily Beckstrom, Jamal 103 Wallace Hall Photo Editor Carswell, Valario Johnson. Jojo McBride, Ad Sales Cassie Gibbs April Irvin Kira Oliver, Alex Lewis Troy, Alabama 36082 Lilly Casolaro, Megan Phillips, Wally Sports Editor Cartoons Pendergrass Webmaster/Social Media Jill Odom Seth Nicholson Joshua Thurston [email protected] Photographers Opinion Editor Chief Copy Editor Jennifer Carlisle, Caitlin Collins, Hannah Adviser Ngoc Vo Laura Hutto Crews, Tedric Davenport, Hallie Dodds, Steve Stewart www.TropNews.com A&E Editor Copy Editors Caleb Hicks Kianna Collins Jane Morrell, Nik Knighten, Arts & Entertainment August 21, 2014 [email protected] | Page 5 Showing moves at Step Tease Jamal Carswell the raffle. Staff Writer Crawford expressed her excitement Many stereotypes and pre-conceived and appreciation for the prize, and said notions surround Step Teases and Greek it was a much-needed boost for her book organizations, but last Thursday’s Step funds. Tease forced students to give those orga- “I really enjoyed it. Everybody did nizations a second thought. a great job, and the groups had a real The Step Tease featured many of Troy presence when they performed. They University’s Greek organizations. These really got the crowd hyped up,” Crawford fraternities and sororities danced in the said. traditional form of “stepping.” A special guest group featured at the Stepping is closely related to tap end of the event was LIT, a local music dancing. The difference is that stepping group brought in by the Troy Univer- offers participants the chance to use their sity UAC. LIT gave a performance that entire bodies as instruments; stomping mixed hip-hop, pop, and R&B. and slapping in unison to create their The Step Tease was also a bit of a own beat. learning experience; different fraternities Some members even displayed their and sororities gave speeches, on where athleticism by back flips, both on and off their organizations were founded, who the stage. founded them and what principles their The participants in the Step Tease organizations are based on. combined the elements of teamwork, Students were encouraged to attend precision and talent. Whereas the moves were tight and the National Pan-Hellenic Council Greek crisp, the Step Tease kept a lighthearted Convocation on Aug. 21. and fun feeling throughout it. The NPHC Greek Convocation is a The Step Tease added elements of mandatory event for all those seeking to modern culture, including songs and ref- join a Greek organization. The NPHC erences relating to many of the students Convocation is an open forum for the present. NPHC members to showcase their or- The event also called for student en- ganization and answer the questions of gagement, asking some to stand up and those seeking to join. demonstrate a popular dance and by The NPHC Council requires business holding a raffle during the event. The attire of all participants. Online registra- April Irvin photo raffle gave students a chance to wina tion is required and ends Aug. 21. Alphonso Lewis, a senior biomedical sciences major from Montgomery, check for $100. The NPHC Greek Convocation will be participated in the Step Tease last week. He’s one of the students who Olivia Crawford, a sophomore nursing held in Trojan Ballrooms A and B at 7 represented the fraternity Kappa Alpha Psi at the performance. major from Eufaula, was the winner of p.m.

Bolt leads by example as drum major Student Thoughts About... Parker McCann the upper class’s jazz band everyone was a totally Staff Writer performed for them. different experience.” To have the honor of After seeing the per- In his free time, Bolt being the drum major formance, Bolt knew he likes to watch anime, for the Sound of the had to be a part of it and play video games and South, Troy University’s joined in the sixth grade. practice his instruments. marching band program, Bolt’s favorite instrument He is currently keeping is a big reward for those is the saxophone, and he up with “Terror in Tokyo,” who have worked hard enjoys playing all kinds, “Akame ga Kill” and and earned it. including the Alto and “Hamatora.” Paramount Pictures Rad Bolt, a senior music Tenor saxes. Since its founding in education major from So far, his favorite 1965, the Sound of the James Fuller Panama City, Florida, halftime show from the South has become a well- @jamesfuller159 will mark this year as his Sound of the South is last known band across the TMNT is a mixed bag; An in- second time being drum year’s funk show. nation. credibly underdeveloped villain major of the Sound of the “I really enjoyed the last “I’m just honored to along with subpar acting but at South. songs of the show. ‘KC have the opportunity to be least the Turtles were awesome. “He’s really cool,” said and the Sunshine Band’ the drum major and serve It’s “ok” Zack Wilson, a sophomore and ‘Get Down Tonight,’ the band. It’s an experi- 9:04 a.m.–13 Aug 14 music industry major from were lots of fun,” he said. ence I’ll never forget,” Goshen. “He participated His most memorable Bolt said. in the drumline’s marching moment was the first This year’s halftime Tedric Davenport photo basics block without even football game that he show will be “Americana,” Emily Beckstrom Bolt shows his dedica- being encouraged. That conducted the Sound of which will include Aaron @E_Beckstrom says a lot considering he the South as a drum major. Copeland’s “Hoedown” tion to his position by TMNT had great special effects plays sax.” “Walking out as a part along with many other showing others what he and I was impressed with it Bolt has been a part of of the band as a freshman well-known patriotic expects of them. He’s overall. Only downside- it was making music ever since was one thing,” Bolt songs. It will be played served as the drum TOO Nickelodeon #TMNTmo- elementary school when said. “But finishing the during the halftime of the major of the Sound of viereview he was in the choir. When first song, turning around first football game on Aug. the South for the past 9:08 a.m.–13 Aug 14 he was in middle school, and bowing in front of 30. two years. Variety Page 6 | [email protected] August 21, 2014 International students share their first impression about the US The United States is the land of the free and the home of the brave, but it is also the land of cheeseburgers and the home of football played with hands. For many of the international students, U.S. society is entirely different from their homes and it comes with its own variety of cultural shocks. Staff writers Valario Johnson and Victoria Lynn sat down with some of our international students to ask them how different they found the U.S. from what they had expected and what their experience living here so far has been like. Photos by Jennifer Carlisle and Victoria Lynn. Guillermo Herrera, a have different styles Andrew Zarah, an in- freshman computer sci- of teaching so you can ternational relations ence major from Santa learn in different ways,” graduate student from Tecla, El Salvador BenMimoun said. “They Mundri, South Sudan Herrera said he was have more interaction so it Zarah’s first impression very anxious about makes you want to learn. It of the U.S. came before coming here because he is very fun.” BenMimoun his plane even touched had heard so much about is living in Trojan Village down at the Atlanta racial stigmas in the U.S. and loves her room and her airport. “Before landing,” “The idea that Central roommates. In Tunisia, her he said. “I looked out of America has about America is that Americans hate college was one building the window and saw all of the lights on the cars and Latinos,” Herrera said. “Because I’m Latino, I thought with no dorms or extra amenities, so the Troy campus buildings and I was like ‘Wow!’” The different lights I was going to be discriminated against.” Herrera’s seems huge to her. of the city shocked him and made him realize just how outlook quickly changed during his flight’s layover in large this country is. Birmingham. Maximilian Bauer, a Zarah said that he loves Troy because there are a lot “People in Birmingham were so amazing,” he said. freshman global business of international students here on campus. “All of the At a hotel in Birmingham, Herrera met someone who management major from international students, and even the Americans, are began to talk to him about how great a school Troy Uni- Munich, Germany always there to help when you need it,” he said. versity is. “He gave me his contact information and ev- Bauer’s expectations were erything,” he said. “He was really cool. This was a huge similar to what he found Thuy Nguyen, a junior fi- surprise to me.” when entering the U.S. two nancial economics from “In a college in El Salvador, you will never see a gym weeks ago. He expected ev- Hanoi, Vietnam or pool. It’s better here. Even the education is better. erything to be bigger in the Nguyen expected an People in El Salvador don’t take classes that seriously,” U.S. “At fast food restaurants, the XXL size in Europe America focused on the he said. is the (regular size) meat in America,” he said. Bauer’s American dream, where He said people in El Salvador study because they first impression of the U.S., when he flew into Mont- everything was about follow behind others, not because of their own aspi- gomery, was that it was hot and humid. “You walk a working. She said the rations. He said that here in America, people have a mile and you are soaking wet,” he said. Bauer also most surprising thing for vision, and he is inspired by that. noted the patriotism displayed through flags hoisted her was “how friendly everyone was and how willing Herrera said he is enjoying America so far but wishes everywhere, more so than in Germany. His opinion of they were to help.” She appreciates people’s individual he had more of his home-style food choices available. the people of Troy is that they are “helpful, honest, and freedoms in the U.S. that are more limited in Vietnam, trustworthy.” such as the freedom of speech and thought. She also Madina Seytmuradova, appreciates the modern technology and advancement a freshman history Guilherme Rampon, a of the buildings and transportation of the U.S. “No major from Dashoguz, senior global business one looks down on me for being Asian and I am very Turkmenistan and marketing major grateful for that,” Nguyen said. Seytmuradova said it is from Caxias do Sul, Brazil not difficult to figure out a “I thought all the cities Mac-jane Chukwu, an big difference between her (in the U.S.) were big,” international relations home and the U.S. “Here, Rampon said. “Before graduate student from everyone says ‘thank you’ I came to America, I Lagos, Nigeria and ‘you’re welcome,’” looked up (the city of) For Chukwu, the U.S. she said. “They even hold Troy, and when I looked was not exactly what she doors, which is not something I expected. it up, I found that it was actually very small.” Even was expecting. “I was told “The biggest difference is the way people act towards though he found that Troy was a small town, Rampon that it was cold,” she said. strangers. Here, if you smile at someone, you can did not expect to walk so much. “I came in August and it be certain that they will smile back. At home, when “One thing that surprised me, is that everything was so hot. I had packed strangers interact with you, it has to have a purpose.” is spread out,” he said. “I felt really dependent when so many sweaters and I didn’t need any of them. It was coming to the U.S. For everything, you need a car. In almost as hot as Nigeria.” Nejla BenMimoun, a senior finance major Brazil, you can walk to almost everything.” Chukwu was also surprised by the friendliness of the from Djerba, Tunisia When asked what he likes about Troy University, he people in the community. She said that, “even if they BenMimoun envisioned a darker U.S. where she said “everything. I like the people. In Brazil, we don’t don’t want to say hello, they will nod and smile at you.” would be bullied and harassed for being a Muslim; what have residence halls. In Brazil, you live at home.” As a country, Chukwu recognizes that the U.S. gives she has found in her two weeks here though is a friendly Rampon said being able to build a community and close people the opportunity to freely express themselves. community and the famous Southern hospitality of ties with friends from all around the world in the dorm “There are a lot of positive things here that I wish could Alabama. She said she loves it so far. “The teachers is what he enjoys the most. be done in Nigeria,” she said.

Seth Nicholson and Taylor Bowser graphic Sports August 21, 2014 [email protected] | Page 7 Soccer preps for the start of the season Ryan Lee period after its first game, playing four Contributor games in eight days. The first home game will be against Alabama State on Tuesday, Aug. 26, and The start of Troy’s 2014 soccer season kickoff will be at 5 p.m. Troy clashed is just around the corner, and the era of with Alabama State last year in the season a new head coach is also about to dawn. opener and dominated the Hornets 3-0. Head coach Jason Hamilton, who pre- Troy will then host the 2014 Trojan viously held coaching positions at the University of Miami and the University Classic the following weekend, playing of Florida, has reported that preseason Kennesaw State on Friday, Aug. 29, at 4 practices are going well. p.m., and then playing Tennessee Tech on Sunday, Aug. 31, at 3 p.m. His staff is both physically and mentally preparing the team for the long Despite a long and challenging 20-game season. schedule ahead, Hamilton aspires to be over .500 this year and said he thinks it Junior midfielder Jasmine Fahrnbauer is within the team’s reach. Hamilton said from Canton, Georgia, talked highly of the new coach and said he pushes the he wants to be the aggressor this season, team to achieve its greatest potential to “be the team that’s going after teams.” while constantly teaching players new The soccer stadium is currently in the things. process of installing lights, so the team Both the coach and the players are will be able to host late games in the near trying to maintain a positive attitude future. as they get ready for their first match With the change in game time and against LSU on Friday, Aug. 22. cooler weather, the team and the coach Although their match against LSU is April Irvin photo hope to see an increase in the amount an away game, Hamilton said he thinks Senior midfielder Jane Latif had three assists and one goal last season. of student body support. Hamilton also the game will be a good test for Troy’s Troy soccer’s first home game is against Alabama State on Tuesday, Aug. mentioned potential appreciation days to team. The team has a short turnaround 26, at 5 p.m. The Trojans beat Alabama State the previous season 3-0. stir up attention for the program. Trojans conquer in Rome Fall Fan Day 2014 Wally Pendergrass which houses Michelan- fewer turnovers than their Staff Writer gelo’s famous statue of opponents in each game. David. The group then Junior guard Ashley The Troy women’s took a short one-hour Beverly-Kelley led the team brought drive to Pisa and visited Trojans in scoring for home two victories and the famous Leaning Tower the tour with a total of many memories from its of Pisa. That evening 42 points and an average summer trip to Italy. The the Trojans would play of 21 points per game. Trojans spent eight days the first game of the tour Senior forward Kourtney in Italy from Aug. 1-9 and against the Italy All-Stars, Coleman also had a nice toured Rome, Florence, which the Trojans won tour, scoring 33 points Montecatini, Pisa, Venice 81-75. and pulling down an im- and Treviso. The day after the victory, pressive 26 rebounds. On the first few days of the Trojans traveled to Sophomore forward the trip, the team toured Venice and toured the Kristen Emerson played Rome and its historic Vecchia Murano Glass well off the bench, scoring landmarks, including Factory. The players 17 points for the tour, the famous Roman enjoyed free time and then including a career-high 15 Colosseum. The players traveled to Treviso, which points in the game against enjoyed the sights, the would be their final stop. ASD Societa Ginnastica. sounds and the local In Treviso, the Trojans Emerson also pulled down cuisine. played in the 7,000-seat 19 rebounds over the two After two days, the team PalaTrieste and defeated games. traveled to see Vatican ASD Societa Ginnastica The Trojans are now City and the Vatican 79-70 to conclude their back home in Troy and Museum. The team then tour of Italy. are preparing for the took a bus ride and held On the court, Troy 2014-2015 campaign. The April Irvin photo a clinic for around 40 showed that it has the women’s basketball team Senior cornerback Jacquez Young signs a fan’s poster on Saturday, Aug. children at the Leonardo ability to win, despite not has an exhibition game 16. The fall Fan Day is an opportunity for Trojan fans of all ages to come da Vinci Sport Center in shooting the ball well. against Alabama-Hunts- out and meet their favorite players from the football, volleyball, soccer Montecatini Terme, Italy. For the trip, the Trojans ville on Thursday, Nov. and cross country teams. Posters were provided and signed by athletes. The team would then shot only 36 percent from 6, and starts official play travel to Florence, Italy, the floor, but they out- Friday, Nov. 14, against and get a tour of the rebounded their opponents Auburn University in what number he wanted, Pierce said, “It Galleria dell’Accademia, 127-84 and committed Auburn. Pierce continued from page 8 really doesn’t matter. Don’t give me a number that the players like to wear.” The pitching coach suggested that they Their relationship continued to build, Although this incident may seem double 25 and go with 50. Then, he said NASCAR isolated and the circumstances antago- as Pierce coached at UAH and Smartt continued from page 8 to reverse 25. That is how Pierce became became the head coach at the University nized, the new rule will apply to all affili- number 52. ates of NASCAR. of West Alabama. The two schools were Choosing a specific favorite moment or are they? All drivers are obligated to follow in the same league, so they had the op- from coaching at Troy is hard for Pierce, The rule stems from an incident the said rule under threat of penalty, each of portunity to compete against each other. so instead he chose 2006, which was preceding Saturday, Aug. 8, in which which will be assigned with consider- “Having been around him and seen his Troy ’s first year in the Sun driver Kevin Ward Jr. was hit by Sprint ation to the incident itself. teams compete and watch his coaching Belt Conference and when it won the Cup racer Tony Stewart during a dirt NASCAR is a sport that has long had style, there was no doubt he was the best championship. track race in upstate New York. Ward a reputation for danger and excitement. choice for me to bring back to Troy Uni- exited his car after being run into the wall This may bring in viewers, but this versity and be assistant coach and lead Another rare opportunity that Pierce by Stewart. new rule makes it clear that this danger recruiter and the multitude of things he has had is the ability to coach his son, The 20-year-old removed his safety is to be handled in a safe, well-monitored does for the program,” Pierce said. Logan. He took on the challenge and straps and walked out onto the track setting. When Pierce arrived at Troy, he had tried to treat Logan just like any other during a caution, pointed at Stewart’s Unnecessary harm or injury will not a plan and wanted to build on the rich player. vehicle and then jumped onto the moving be tolerated where it can be prevented, tradition that Troy baseball already had. “I had real good friends who asked, car. He sustained severe blunt force a clear advancement for the sport as a “We wanted to build it the right way ‘How’s it going coaching your own trauma that led to his untimely death. whole. with kids doing the right thing off the field son?’ ” Pierce said. “ ‘Ah, shoot. I think as well as on the field in the classroom it’s going great. But let’s ask the voice of academically getting their degrees and reason, . Hey, Coach Smartt, being prepared for what’s next for them,” how am I doing coaching my own son?’ Pierce said. And he said, ‘Failing miserably!’ ” While Pierce is not concerned about He knew Smartt would tell him the whether the university decides to retire truth, so Pierce realized that he had gone his number, he did have an interesting overboard. In trying to treat Logan like story about how it came to be. another one of the guys, Pierce was At the age of 23, Pierce was the head actually harder on his son. coach of Chipola College, a junior “Over a period of time, I think I did a college in Florida. Five days before the better job of coaching him,” Pierce said. first game it hit him that he had no idea “I think he got more relaxed playing for where the uniforms were. his dad. As it ended up, he had a fabulous After discovering the previous year’s career and did an excellent job of being remnants, he and his wife scrubbed and one of the guys that led that 2013 team sewed up the uniforms. When Pierce down the stretch.” had finally distributed the numbers based While Pierce hopes to keep his final off the players’ GPAs, he realized he had season business as usual, he does feel failed to save a uniform for himself. more excitement and is more concerned In the pile of unwanted scraps, he about enjoying it with the players than found one uniform top that had to suffice, winning a championship. and that was No. 25. As a coach at Uni- “It’s a different year; it’s a different versity of Alabama and UAH, he simply feeling,” Pierce said. “I don’t know if I stayed 25. can totally explain all of that, but I feel However, when he came to Troy, his great about it. I feel great about the fact son asked him what number he would that Coach Smartt will be taking over the take. Pierce said 25. His son then program at the conclusion of the season.” reminded him that 25 is the only number Pierce currently plans to spend his that is retired because it is coach Chase retirement building a house at Laguna Riddle’s number. Beach, Florida, and enjoying some well- When the pitching coach asked Pierce deserved rest. Sports Page 8 | [email protected] August 21, 2014 If we build it, they will come Trojan Arena will host its first volleyball tournament Wally Pendergrass Staff Writer

The Troy volleyball team will host the Trojan Invitational 2014 in Trojan Arena on Sept. 4-5. This is the first time in five years that the Trojan volleyball team has hosted a tournament, and it will be the first to take place inside the new Trojan Safety first, Arena. The tournament will include three other teams besides the Trojans. Troy will compete against Mercer University, NASCAR Megan Phillips Alabama A&M University and Jackson- ville State University. Staff Writer The Alabama A&M Bulldogs have made it all the way to the Southwestern Car wrecks on a metropolitan inter- Athletic Conference championship game state or a heavy highway are devastat- for the last seven seasons, according to ing and tragic, but car wrecks during a swac.org. Sunday NASCAR race are what ­— part The A&M team hasn’t won the league Joshua Thurston photo of the entertainment? since 2010 and has a new head coach this Senior Marija Zelenovic was named a member of the Preseason All-Sun As a whole, NASCAR is a sport season. The Bulldogs will be looking Belt volleyball team. She is one of the four seniors on this year’s volley- that draws attention from its ability to make a statement in the tournament, ball team and is in her second year at Troy. The Trojans’ season starts on to straddle the line between competi- and they are considered by SWAC Friday, Aug. 29, at the Big Orange Bash in Clemson, South Carolina. tive fun and dangerous recklessness, often resulting in serious injury and in writers to be one of the best teams in the Magnolia Invitational as well as at the Sept. 4, at 4:30 p.m. with Alabama A&M conference. death when that line becomes blurred or Trojan Invitational this year. facing off against Jacksonville State. The The Mercer University Bears will be breaks altogether. The are entering their Trojans wrap up the night with a match under their second year of guidance from Because of the inherent danger as- ninth season under head coach Sonny against Mercer. sociated with the sport, safety becomes head coach Damian Elder. an issue that drivers and executives According to mercerbears.com, the Kirkpatrick. The tournament starts up again Friday both constantly maintain in a state of team added two coaches to its staff and The Trojans finished 13-21 last season morning with Jacksonville State playing but had a remarkable finish to the season Mercer. Troy will take on Alabama progress. had a successful first practice. The Bears Among the recent improvements are went 1-27 last season, and the only win by upsetting returning Sun Belt Confer- A&M at noon. That evening, things wrap ence champion Western Kentucky in the up with Alabama A&M playing Mercer the mandatory head-and-neck restraints they had came against the other team in as well as what has become known as the tournament, Jacksonville State. quarterfinals of the at 4:30 p.m. and the Trojans finishing the Tournament. tournament against Jacksonville State at “soft-wall” barriers. Enhancements to The Jacksonville State Gamecocks the cars themselves include protective Trojan senior Marija Zelenovic was 7 p.m. also have a new head coach this season. seats, better seat placement, crushable named to the Preseason All-Sun Belt Matt Mays, assistant director of The Gamecocks finished last season materials in the manufacturing and roll 13-18. Conference volleyball team this week. athletic media relations, said that there cages for when the unthinkable happens. As mentioned above, the Mercer Bears She is one of eight selections from the would be a tournament central page on Many of these improvements and the Gamecocks have a history. These entire conference. troytrojans.com, once the tournament developed out of the highly publi- two will play each other at the Ole Miss The tournament begins Thursday, gets closer. cized death of the revered driver Dale Earnhardt, in his famous yet fatal crash at Daytona, Florida, in 2001. In recent years, NASCAR has developed one of the most rigorous Retiring coach reflects on successor safety research and development centers focused on how to make each track Jill Odom and coaching third base on and car as safe as possible under any Sports Editor game days. raceable conditions. “To do the things and ac- But what is NASCAR doing today After devoting much of complish the things that he to continue this work in maintaining his life to baseball, Bobby has over that 12 year period drivers’ safety? Pierce is approaching his final as an assistant coach, you On Friday, Aug. 15, NASCAR’s vice season as head coach of Troy have to really be committed president Robin Pemberton announced University’s baseball team. to working at it,” Pierce said. that the organization will be implement- After announcing Aug. 13 “That’s what you do, you just ing a new rule, effective immediately, that the 2015 season will be outwork people. I think that that drivers are not to leave their cars his last, Pierce shared what his that motivation and passion after on-track incidents unless there friendship with his successor, for this university really are clear “extenuating circumstances.” assistant coach Mark Smartt, helped him.” There must be fire or smoke in the has meant to him. Close to 30 years ago, cockpit for drivers to exit their cars. “His impact has been equal Pierce was at the 1986 and Under the new rule, if a driver is to mine. He came in 12 years 1987 National Champion- involved in an on-track wreck or unable ago with me with an obvious ship games when Smartt was to make forward progress because of true passion about Troy Uni- a player. an on-track wreck, he is to turn off his versity,” Pierce said. As time went by, Smartt engine, remove the window net and wait until further instruction or assistance. Smartt played for Troy April Irvin photo became a student assistant and then a grad assistant at Why the new rule? It is not as if these as the second baseman on Head baseball coach Bobby Pierce has worked with Troy, and the two worked drivers are children on a carnival who two National Champion- assistant coach Mark Smartt for his 12 years at Troy. ship teams. He and his wife together at camps during the must wait until it comes to a complete graduated from Troy. His summer. stop to remove their safety belts, a coach for Troy’s softball has been responsible for re- daughter also graduated from team. cruiting players, working Troy with honors and is now As assistant coach, Smartt with batting and infielding, See Pierce, page 7 See NASCAR, page 7 Word Games How to play: Each of these word games represents a sports saying or is related to sports in some way. Think literally to solve. Answers are in the lower right corner

B A

J J J J

1. 2. L

J J J L

3. 4. TI ME

Solutions

4. Half time Half 4. ball Curve 2.

3. Sideline Sideline 3. Jays Blue Toronto 1.