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Greek community sings

Softball team prepares

NSUs Greek community presents annual Greek Sing competition.


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RiverHawks softball readies for MIAA Conference Championship.


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Vo l u m e 1 0 4 , I s s u e 2 8 Tu e s d a y, A p r i l 9 , 2 0 1 3 | Ta h l e q u a h , O k l a . 7 4 4 6 4

NSU participates in Sexual Assault Awareness month


JACCI ALWORDEN
TNE WRITER April is national Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Sexual Assault Awareness Month is a national campaign that basically is to bring awareness to the issues of sexual assault and womens issues, said DeJon Jordan, coordinator, outreach and prevention. It is a national movement geared by legislation, started by Joe Biden, to bring attention to sexual assault and stalking. It ballooned into something that we annually bring attention to for our students. NSU is promoting a plethora of educational events to bring awareness to this explosive subject. We are going to do a presentation on sexual assault and how it relates to students, said Jordan. We are also helping with community events such as walk a mile in her shoes. This is the third year we have done it, in collaboration with Help-In-Crisis. Jordan said there are several ways for students to get involved. In 2011, there were three forcible sex offender incidents reported on housing grounds. This does not mean there were three victims. Numerous sexual assaults go unreported each year. We are the same as the city police, only this is our jurisdiction, said James Bell, NSU police captain. We would be the place to make an original report for prosecution. If a student is sexually assaulted on campus, the perpetrator can be held accountable in more than one way. Rape in the first degree is punishable by death, said Amy Proctor, in- continued on page 2

Jacci Alworden/TNE In a mock demonstration, Jim Jones, Fort Smith, Ark. junior, and JeAnna Philpot, Muldrow senior, show the emergency call station. In the event of a real-life crisis these stations are placed around campus for the security of NSU students.

NSU honors student achievements with assembly


MIRANDA CAUGHRON
TNE STAFF WRITER NSU will present their 45th annual Honors Assembly, April 19 at 7:30 p.m. Approximately 400 students will receive awards during the assembly. I think its a great opportunity to reward students with the recognition they deserve for all of their hard work and achievements over the year, said Sarah Johnson, member of the honors assembly committee. The Honors Assembly is much like a commencement exercise. Students are called according to their award, they come across the stage and are individually recognized and given a certificate. With the variety of awards given at the assembly, the Student Activity Award helps recognize students who not only have high academic standards but also who are very involved, and I think thats a very important factor in the success of students at NSU, said Johnson. The student activities award can be given to a student to recognize a student who stands out in that organization, nominated by an adviser. Every university approved student organization or activity may qualify one student who has demonstrated outstanding involvement in the continued on page 2

To err is human. To fix it is TNE Policy. Corrections can be found on Page 4. To report a correction call 918.444.2890. TNE Web site: www.nsunews.com

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April brings attention to sexual violence


continued from page 1 structor of criminal justice. Now, that is totally unconstitutional, but it is still on the books in some states. They could also face imprisonment of not less then five years, or life and life without parole. Second-degree rape is punishable by not less then one-year and not more then 15 years. Parole is very complicated, but with these types of crimes they have to serve at least 85 percent of their sentence. They can become eligible, but does not mean they will get parole. Bell said if someone sexually assaults someone on campus and that person is found in violation of different articles in the student code of conduct they can be held accountable there. Sexual assault is something that could happen to anyone. There is definitely a stereotype and there is also a stigma behind sexual assault against men, said Jordan. Men can be and are the victims of these crimes that we traditionally lump as crimes against women. Treatment for the sex-crime offenders could be the key to rehabilitation. If we could figure out why people rape, or commit sexual assault, we would then be able to treat them, said Proctor. If we can diagnose them, then maybe we could address it, and maybe we could treat them. Proctor said she thinks sexual offenders can be rehabilitated Students from any background have access to HawkReach, which is a counseling service offered at NSU. Each student on campus is an invaluable asset to NSU. Every rape is a legitimate rape, there is no such thing as a rape that is not legitimate, said Proctor. We have to remove the stigma of victim blaming. Students will soon be receiving an email prompting them to fill out a survey. We are going to have an NSU campus crime and victimization survey that is going to be sent out starting April 8, and it is going to be for everyone on all three campuses, said Proctor. There are ways to prevent sexual assault. Alcohol really plays a role in date rape and sexual assaults that occur on campus, said Proctor. Be safe, be aware of your surroundings. The annual Slut Walk is coming up and there will also be an improv show called Sex Signals coming to campus soon. For more information, email alwordej@nsuok.edu.

45th annual Honors Assembly recognizes students


continued from page 1 organizations presence on campus for a Student Activity Award. I am honored to receive a student activities award, because I was nominated for it by my advisor and professor Kin Thompson, a professor for hospitality and tourism management, said Sarah Fletcher, president of CHAT. We just started up Club Hospitality and Tourism this last semester in August, we have worked very hard to raise money to send some of our members to BCMA a large conference for people in the meeting industry and they were able to network and make connections. The Honors Society Awards are given to those who have good academic standing and are active extra curricularly, through organizations or extra activities and are nominated by any faculty. Whos Who Awards are given to students through a selection process by student activities. All four award categories are recognized at this assembly. I am honored to be accepted into Whos Who, because it is a national organization and it feels great to be able to represent
Miranda Caughron/TNE Sarah Johnson, member of the Honors Assembly committee, looks at information on honorees with Kathleen M. Liles. The 45th Honors Assembly will be April 19 at 7:30 p.m.

Northeastern in that organization, said Megan Edmonds, Inola senior. The purpose is to recognize outstanding students at NSU four different awards. Students may bring their friends and family to

watch them receive their award. It is a nice way to really recognize our best students, said Dr. Anne Davey, head of the Honors Assembly committee. There is usually a large crowd with over 600 filled chairs, and we always

have a really nice time. The families are always so proud, and everyone is just always so happy to see NSUs best students recognized. For more information, email caughrom@nsuok.edu

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Campus prepared for natural disaster


JACCI ALWORDEN
TNE WRITER In the event of a natural disaster or a bomb threat NSU, is prepared. Campus police and resident assistants must all go through a training process. It is a threat assessment, said James Bell, NSU Police Captain. I have been through threat assessment classes, I have been through bomb scene assessment. NSUPD should be contacted immediately upon receipt of any direct threat or unconfirmed report of a threat to bomb property on campus. We examine the threat how was it made, possibly who it came from and why, said Bell. Bell said each threat must be considered before making a decision about whether to evacuate or only do a search. Bell said there is no blanket policy, because each threat is different. Every resident assistant must go trough certified emergency response team training before being hired. CERT training teaches skills like CPR, basic first aid, how to use a defibrillator and who to reach during natural disasters, said Johnathan Crabtree, resident assistant at Hastings Hall. We are given performance tests on how to react to floods, fires, earthquakes, bomb threats, plane crashes, school shootings suicide prevention referral, drug and alcohol abuse relief referral, power failure, hostage situations and other routine safety inspections or concerns. Bell said RAs can supplement police officers, fireman and EMS in the event of a large scale emergency. NSU has also laid plans for natural disaster response. In the event of a tornado students should go to the basement or lowest floor of the building. Stay away from exterior walls, doors and windows. Move to interior hallways and small interior rooms. Get under a piece of furniture if possible and call NSUPD or 911 if emergency help is needed. Here on campus we have the basement of the UC for a shelter, said Bell. In Loeser, if they cannot make it to the basement of the UC they can use what is referred to as the mile of tile. The university has even had community-wide training events, in which students could participate. The mock disaster in Loeser there were several scenarios that they did, said Bell. They did different exercises, because we were working with our other community and surrounding agencies to make sure they got practice for what they needed to do. Bell said there were 19 agencies that participated including the Tahlequah Fire Department, Tahlequah Police Department, EMS and Oklahoma Highway Patrol. He said that it was just part of the emergency preparedness program. He said you have to do exercises to prepare for a real life emergency. Our training even goes so far as to how to react during a zombie apocalypse, said Crabtree. We are trained to be community developers, peer helpers and a resource to all available connections on campus. For more information on NSU emergency protocols and plans visit http://offices.nsuok.edu/ Portals/49/emergencyoperations.pdf. For more information, email alwordej@nsuok.edu.

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OPINION

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Same-sex marriage source of much debate


The Defense of Marriage Act is a hotly debated issue around the country right now, with both sides making passionate arguments for their cause. Social networking has allowed both sides to publicly protest and defend their viewpoints. DOMA, signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1996, defines marriage as being between one man and one woman. President Barack Obama and his administration said DOMA was unconstitutional and they would no longer defend it. The Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group convened to determine whether the House of Representatives should defend DOMA, and on March 9, voted 3-2 to do so. On March 27 the Supreme Court heard arguments in the case of United States v. Windsor, which challenges DOMA. The arguments focused mostly on whether it is constitutional for the U.S. government to refuse to recognize same-sex marriages that were recognized by the state. Nine states and the District of Columbia have already legalized same-sex marriage. While these marriages are recognized on a state level, they are not recognized on a federal level, and thus do not receive the same federal benefits and rights as a heterosexual marriage. While some only view marriage as a piece of paper, there are many benefits that come from a legally-recognized marriage. Heterosexual marriages recieve benefits such as joint tax returns, social security and medical insurance through their spouses employer. These couples have the legal right to visit their spouse in the hospital, make medical decisions for the spouse when necessary, make financial decisions on their spouses behalf and more. Homosexual couples are not allowed to file for joint adoption and may not receive child support
Keli Hoffman/TNE Scot Leverson, Osage resident, and Jonathan Clark, Los Angeles freshman, sit together in front of Seminary Hall. They are one of an estimated 132,000 same-sex couples affected by DOMA.
Adviser: Cassie Freise ext. 2874

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POSTMASTER: Send PS from 3579 to NSU, Tahlequah, Okla., 74464-2399. The Northeastern (USPS # 395-580) is published weekly throughout the year except college holidays by Northeastern State University, Tahlequah, Okla., 74464-2399. Periodicals postage paid at Tahlequah. Postmaster: send address changes to Northeastern State University, Tahlequah, Okla., 74464-2399. For more information about advertising, classified or display, call 444-2890, seven days in advance of desired publication date. Editorial statements in The Northeastern and readers letters reflect those of the individual writers and not necessarily those of The Northeastern, its editors, staff, adviser or the administration of NSU. The opinions and comments therein do not necessarily reflect the policies or beliefs of the Board of Regents of Oklahoma Colleges or the regional universities and that the student newspaper is not an official medium or expression of the Board or the regional universities. The Northeastern is a public forum. All submissions become property of The Northeastern. This publication was printed by The Muskogee Phoenix and issued by NSU as authorized by House Bill 1714. Four thousand copies were printed at a total cost of $695 for 32 pages. The Northeastern is a member of the Associated College Press Association, Oklahoma Interscholastic Press Association, Society of Collegiate Journalists and College Media Advisers. e-mail address: tne@nsuok. edu.

or custody in the event of a separation. If DOMA is declared unconstitutional, same-sex marriages will receive the same federal rights and benefits in states that recognize them. Arguments in favor of DOMA are largely religious, reasoning same-sex marriage is not traditional. Others argue that homosexual marriage denies children either a father or a mother and it is in a childs best interest to be raised by their natural mother and/or father. Even if DOMA is upheld as constitutional, people in the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community will likely continue their relationships. It could be safe to say that they will not stop the fight to have their re-

lationships recognized on every level. If DOMA is struck down, states that do not already recognize same-sex marriage will not be required to permit it, and these unions will continue to be unrecognized on a federal level. Churches and religious leaders will not be required to perform or recognize same-sex marriages even if DOMA is passed. This is an issue that will, more than likely, be debated for years to come. Legislation does not have the ability to change ones belief system. With a topic so publicly debated, it can be easy to find widespread incorrect information. As with any subject, each individual should do their own research and determine their beliefs for themselves.

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Soccer team sponsors Run For Your Colors 5k


ANDREW SCOTT
TNE WRITER The NSU womens soccer team is putting a twist onto a fivekilometer run. They are sponsoring the Run For Your Colors 5k on April 18 at 5:30 p.m. The race is going to be a big fundraiser for womens soccer, said Chase Wooten, womens soccer head coach. The race will start at the Sequoyah statue and will go through campus and will end back at the statue. There will be a perimeter set up mapping out the track, and each kilometer there will be someone that will throw powdered paint on you. Exercise is a part of living a healthy lifestyle and this could be a fun way to do that. This run is something fun to do on a Thursday night, said Wooten. The soccer team will use the money raised on new gear that is needed. The money will be used for warmer gear, said Wooten. We are moving more into a Northern conference, so we need gear that is suitable for the weather we will be playing in. The women on the soccer team will help during the race. We are planning on using around a pound of powder paint on each participant, said Rachel Sordahl, Pryor senior. By the end of the race the participants shirt should look like a tie-dye shirt. The colors are 100 percent washable, but if you would like to keep the shirt as a memento, dont wash it, said Renee Valcarce, Riverside, Calif. junior. People are excited for this type of event because this is something new to NSU. We are excited to do this type of fundraiser because something like this has never been at NSU before, said Sordahl. Sordahl said with color runs so popular now, it just made sense to have their own version in Tahlequah. The team said they hope this event will attract a big crowd who will come out to support womens soccer. I am excited to see how many people will come out, how many supporters we can get and how much money we can raise, said Jennifer Clark, Allen, Texas junior. To participate, go to www.nsualumni.com or visit the Athletic Administration building. Please sign up early for the race, so we know what shirt sizes that we need, said Wooten. Check in for the race is from 3:30 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. The run is open to anyone who wants to participate. Wooten said he liked the social aspect of the race. With participants moving at their own pace, whether it be running, walking or crawling,

Andrew Scott/TNE Jennifer Clark, RiverHawks soccer player, gets hit with powdered paint. She is preparing for the Run For Your Colors 5k.

they are able to interact with one another. This is the first 5k the team has done, and they are anxious to see the turn out. We are hoping everyone will come out and support womens soccer and a healthy lifestyle, said Valcarce. For more information, email Scott33@nsuok.edu.

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Students pass the bucket for Special Olympics


MEREDITH BARKER
TNE WRITER Media campaigns and events, along with Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority, has raised more than $3,000 for Tahlequah Public Schools Special Olympics through donations and two fundraising events. The class will continue their fundraising efforts 1 p.m. April 13 at the RiverHawks softball doubleheader. The class and ASA will pass buckets at both softball games, asking for donations to help send TPS Special Athletes to the state Special Olympics in Stillwater. The overall campaign goal is $4,000, but the students are hopeful they will supersede the original goal. Phi Sigma Kappa gave a check to us for $2,000, said Josh Maxwell, Tahlequah graduate student. I think were well on our way to reaching our $4,000 goal. Michelle Miron, Broken Arrow senior, said the campaign has raised many generous donations, both small and big, including a $300 donation from Armstrong Bank. The campaigns class set a $4,000 goal to meet, said Miron. We are already above $3,000, which is boosting our excitement of the campaign even more. Jasmine Wright, Dallas graduate student, organized both Pass the Bucket events. She said she knew there would be a large crowd at the games, and this type of thing has not been done before. She thought the class should give it a try. Campaign members had a previous Pass the Bucket at the final home basketball game at Jack Dobbins Fieldhouse. The success of the first event inspired them to make some changes. They restructured the procedures used in order to better utilize the sporting events as fundraisers. I think the first Pass the Bucket was a good success, said Wright. There were some things that we will improve on with the organization part of it, but overall, it got us a good head start on our big goal. Each of the students has individual reasons for involvement in this campaign, ranging from class requirement to personal investment in the cause. This campaign gives me joy to see those kids faces light up when they see someone who cares, said Wright. At our second event, Pass the Bucket, when those kids received a standing ovation, the look in their eyes was a feeling that I dont believe I will ever feel again. Miron said NSU students, faculty and staff have been an integral part of the campaign thus far, and the class is asking them to show up again.

The outpouring of the NSU community has been pleasantly shocking for members of the campaign. I was surprised at how much NSU has given toward our campaign, said Wright. I would say they are behind us all the way. I am excited to see how it goes. Anyone interested in donating should bring cash or a check made payable to Tahlequah Public Schools Special Olympics to the softball games at 1 p.m., April 13. To make a donation separate from the pass the bucket event, call Dr. Dana Eversole at 918444-2891. For more information, email Barker04@nsuok.edu.

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NAB spotlights struggling animal sanctuary


KELI HOFFMAN
TNE WRITER NAB is sponsoring an event to help Safaris Sanctuary, a struggling local animal sanctuary. Keshia Kincaid, exposure and diversity committee chairman, is coordinating the event. What we do with exposure and diversity is try to bring in different types of events, like events you wouldnt normally see and arent directed at a certain type of people, said Kincaid. Safaris Sanctuary will bring some animals from their sanctuary for students, faculty and staff to hold and enjoy. They are bringing an alligator, snake, turtle and possibly one other animal. Students can have their picture taken with the animals and donate money to the sanctuary. We just thought it would be a neat thing for students, said Kincaid. Were going to take pictures and were hoping theyll donate. Kincaid said pictures would be on their Facebook page for students to access. Sarah Johnson, coordinator of campus activities, brought the sanctuary to Kincaids attention after reading an article about the waning facility. Once I saw the article, I mentioned it to her and she decided that was something she wanted to bring, said Johnson. Johnson said that Kincaid thought the sanctuary was a good cause, and opportunity for students. The sanctuary, founded by Lori Ensign 18 years ago, had to close their doors to the public in August 2012. With nearly 200 exotic or endangered animals to care for and not enough revenue coming in, it became challenging for them to maintain the facility for daily visitors. Ensign rescued many of the animals she now cares for, but her ongoing struggle with multiple sclerosis makes that increasingly difficult. Tigers, wolves, kangaroos, alligators and many more call the sanctuary home. Safaris Sanctuary would like to reopen to the public sometime this year, something they will be unble to accomplish without the assistance of volunteers and donations. They are located east of Broken Arrow, and need volunteers in the animal care, marketing and grounds care department. They are looking for individuals who can clean cages, mow, change out water, pick up trash, help with building projects and any other task the facility might need assistance with. Volunteer hours are 8 a.m. to noon, MondayFriday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Anyone over the age of 12 is welcome to volunteer time at Safaris Sanctuary, and free training is provided. The sanctuary also offers community service opportunities, internships, apprenticeships and job shadowing. Safaris Sanctuary will be at NSU with the animals from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on April 11 outside the UC. This is a chance to bring awareness to a cause where they need volunteers and funding, said Johnson. For more information, email hoffma04@nsuok.edu.

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NSU Greek community presents Greek Sing


JAMES BAGWELL
TNE WRITER For the last three years the NSU Greek community has challenged one another to a singing and dancing competition known simply as Greek Sing. The Greek Sing competition is a battle of smooth moves and sweet voices in which members of the NSU Greek community choreograph, create costumes and design and build sets for a musical event. There are a few changes to this years Greek Sing. This is the first year that we are having it in the CPA on campus, and we are very excited to be able to have it on campus, said Ashley Medlock, Coweta graduate assistant. Also, all of the money that will be raised from this years Greek Sing box office and Vote for Your Favorite Act competition will be donated to Tahlequah Public Schools. Every year the competition has had a different theme, last years was Rodgers and Hammerstein productions and the year before was Disney themed. This years theme is Through the Decades, which will be the 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s, said Medlock. Each group has a decade and will be performing musical hits of their choice from that decade. The fraternity and sorority pairings were different for 2013 as well. This year the names of each fraternity and each sorority, as well as one of the decades were put into three different hats. They were all hand drawn so that there was no sort of confusion. Every year prior to 2013 the pairings were set in a rotation, so that no two organizations would be paired together two years in a row. I feel like we have a really good group this year, said Lauren Rosson, Muskogee sophomore. I feel like it is a much more exciting theme. We are getting to perform the songs from the 70s that we enjoy and enjoy dancing and singing to. I am looking forward to winning Greek Sing again this year. I like to win. We all like to win, and we are going to win. The competition has always allowed for creative control to be in the hands of the organizations, but this year is allowing for more than just creative control. It is also giving the organizations the Right to Rock. I am having a blast, said Steven English, Phi Sigma Kappa Greek Sing co-chair. I performed in show and jazz choir in high school and I just love music. I was really excited to hear that NSU, being a relatively small Greek community, actually gets to do Greek Sing. It is even more fun this year because our group has decided to perform as a live band, instead of just having the music on a CD. Most of the participants have absolutely no background in the performing arts, which is another reason that Greek Sing is so impressive to some people. Greek Sing 2013 is April 12 and will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the NSU Center for Performing Arts. Admission to the event is $5 and the doors will open at 6 p.m. For more information, email bagwellj@nsuok.edu.

James Bagwell/TNE Greek Sing 2012 was a big hit for the Greek community at NSU. Kelley Hurd, Henryetta junior, performed Cinderella along side her Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority sisters as well as the men of Pi Kappa Alpha.

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Alumna publishes Reflections of the Soul


DREW BENNETT
TNE WRITER It is always a great accomplishment for those who actually put in the work to write, edit and publish their own works. April Joy Cordell recently achieved just that. Cordell graduated from NSU in 2007 with a major in Psychology, an emphasis she chose because she wanted to help people. Ive always wanted to help people, said Cordell. I thought that I would do it one way, but I ended up doing it in a way I didnt expect. If my personal experience can help inspire and help others then I am happy to do it. For the last three years, Cordell has dedicated herself to writing her book Reflections of the Soul. She recently had it published with Amazon publishing. The book is a collection of short stories and poetry about her journey through life. Cordell said each story is about a different time or experience in her life. The story about my mother passing away, Favor in particular is very dear to me, said Cordell. At the time, I could only ask myself why something like that had to happen. I felt like I was alone in the dark. Cordell said even during her darkest times, she knew she was not alone. I now realize that even then God was always there with his shining light to guide me, said Cordell. Cordell has always enjoyed writing. She recalls writing short stories since second grade and showing them to her parents. That motivation was a major part of what inspired her to begin work on her second book Breaking Free. I cant say that it is the type of book I would normally read, said Caleb Christie, Tulsa freshman. I have to say it is pretty impressive that she was able to accomplish something like that. All the more power to her. Cordell said she would like to encourage others to follow their dreams even when others make fun of them for it. Reflections of the Soul is currently available at Amazon. com for $12.95. For more information, email Bennettn@nsuok.edu.

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Grounds maintenance offers employment opportunities


JOSH WOODSON
CONTRIBUTING WRITER For some, a position on the NSU grounds maintenance team may not be the first choice of oncampus jobs. Many might see the appeal of a desk job over working outside under a blazing sun. Those looking for part-time income, who enjoy working with their hands and being outside, might appreciate a position with the grounds maintenance team. We benefit from them [students], and they benefit from us, Boyd Smith, grounds supervisor. There are approximately 60 acres of NSU property Smith and his team manage all year. Students who work in the spring semester may have the opportunity to work throughout summer and fall. It is a year-round job to keep the campus looking its best. A lot of students that come and work here leave with a totally different idea of what the grounds team is, said Smith. Smith said students learn how to operate machinery before they are allowed to use it. This can be helpful for students who may not otherwise receive such training. The students are treated just like any other member of the grounds maintenance team staff when they begin to work with this area of the campus. We dont treat them like kids, we treat them like workers, said Smith. Safety is right up there with work. I want them to be fast, but I want them to be safe. The student workers are taught how to mow and edge skillfully and how to use a chainsaw in a safe way. In rare cases, they are given the opportunity to operate heavy equipment such as a backhoe. The grounds maintenance team also assists in setting up and tearing down outdoor events at NSU. The competenence of the staff can be crucial to the campus with the number of outdoor events each year, including athletic events and various other campus celebrations. Weve gotten really lucky, because weve gotten some really great workers, Smith said. Bad weather is usually something every student looks forward to with the hope of class cancellation in mind. Even on snow days, the grounds team still comes to make sure the campus stays free of debris. A year ago when we had two big snows, we had to clean the ice from the parking lots and the sidewalks by hand, said Rick Poteet, grounds foreman. There were two nights where I worked until 2 a.m. Billy Barnett, grounds foreman, said this job toughens up students and also teaches them. He said their attitudes usually change after a couple months. You learn to handle your pride here, said Smith. A lot of our workers, for example, dont like to pick up trash in front of the main part of campus because of the constant flow of student. Work for the grounds team may not be all fun and games, but it can have funnier moments. You always have your students that bring a prank, said Smith. Such as carving somebody loves somebody in the grass with a weed eater. In the past one of the student workers scalped a similar phrase in the grass using two of his coworkers names. The team enjoys pranking with the students. We joke around and tease with them, said Barnett. Poteet said the students can be fun to work with. One of our workers fell into the creek one day while weed eating, said Poteet. He stepped on a rock that rolled out from under him, and he landed in the water with his feet and legs sticking straight up out of the water. While the workers strive to maintain a professional environment, they do not shy away from having fun on the job. Maintaining a positive workplace setting is important to the team. We make it as positive as we can, said Smith. Its fun but it turns into work and you find out what youre made of when you come and work for us. For more information, email woodsonj@nsuok.edu.

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Tuesday, April 9 Greek Week April 812 Smart Talking and Dining: Networking and Etiquette Dinner 5:30-7 p.m. Redbud Room-UC
Miranda Caughron/TNE Randy Cox donates to the KMOD and Oklahoma Blood Institute blood drive Jan. 23 in the University Center ballroom. The NSU community has multiple opportunities to donate throughout each semester.

OBI promotes blood drive


AARON PATTON
CONTRIBUTING WRITER The Oklahoma Blood Institute will visit campus to allow the NSU community the opportunity to donate. Leslie Byrd, blood drive coordinator, has already started gathering volunteers for April 10-11. The blood drive is 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday and 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday. The blood drive takes a lot of coordination, planning, volunteers, posters and publicity, said Byrd. Five OBI staff, 12 committee members and 20 volunteers work together to organize and plan the drive. The OBI staff are friendly, said Heather Knutson, Sand Springs senior. Knutson said she likes working with the staff. OBI has a phlebotomist and trained staff on hand at every blood drive. I work in this field, because I like people and saving lives, said Heather Stone, OBI blood program consultant. Until you work in this industry, you dont know how good it feels. Many volunteers continue to volunteer regularly with OBI. I started out, because someone needed a volunteer, said

Thursday, April 11(cont.) Safe Zone Training 3:30-5 p.m. BAAS 170 Broken Arrow Friday, April 12 Arbor Day Celebration 2:30-3:50 p.m. Centennial Plaza Tahlequah Greek Sing 6:30 p.m. 8:30 p.m. CPA Saturday, April 13

Knutson. I kept volunteering, because I love it. Last year my grandfather personalized it for me though because he needed a blood transfusion. Campuses can be a good location for blood drives, because of the wide range of students, faculty and staff. Stone said she looks for a business or school with adequate population or foot traffic and a drive coordinator. My job is to identify businesses, recruit a drive coordinator and help set up the blood drive, said Stone. NSU has been home to blood drives for several years and some groups give regularly. We have a lot of loyal students, and the football team that give blood, said Byrd. Students who donate receive a

free T-shirt. When theres free stuff there will be college students, said Byrd People who come for the free T-shirt, but dont really want to give blood really clog up the lines. This time I think we are giving out lunch bags as well as t-shirts, said Knutson. Byrd said there is a Donor Reward Points Program and an online store at www.OBI.org. This months blood drive will be located in the North Gym. There will be red arrows on campus to guide students. Byrd said not everyone can give blood. The most common reasons they cannot give blood are tattoos, travel to certain foreign countries and antibiotic use. For more information email patton06@nsuok.edu.

Free Confidential HIV Testing 3-6 p.m. Administration BuildingBAAS 141 Wednesday, April 10 NSU Theatre Company presents Lend Me a Tenor April 10, 7:30 p.m. Sat, April 13, 7:30 p.m. NSU Playhouse Tulsa Collegiate Job Fair 1-4 p.m. University of Tulsa; Donald W. Reynolds Center; 11th Street and Harvard Thursday, April 11

RiverHawk Baseball vs Fort =Hays State University 1-6 p.m. Thomas C. Rousey Field Tahlequah The Community Health Fair 8 a.m. to noon Norris Park Tahlequah Sunday, April 14

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program 3-6 p.m. Business and Technology, room 121 Tahlequah

Mens Golf at Missouri Southern Invitational April 1416, Joplin, Mo.

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Courtesy of Weather.com

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Page 12 April 9, 2013

Traveling Vietnam memorial makes final stop in Tahlequah


JAMES BAGWELL
TNE WRITER The Dignity Memorial Vietnam Wall is making one last stop in Tahlequah before entering retirement. Many students, staff, and faculty members are anxiously awaiting the memorials arrival. We had a different wall here about 15 years ago, said Tony Oseland, lecturer of English. This is actually the last time that this particular wall will be making its rounds around the country. As soon as its tour is over, it will be retired to Fort Benning, Ga. to the Vietnam Veterans Museum where it will become a permanent installation. Many people had a hand in getting the memorial to Tahlequah including Cherokee Nation,Tahlequah Chamber of Commerce, Tahlequah Mayor, Jason Nichols, and Reed-Culver funeral home. The NSU ROTC will also volunteer their help along with otherveteran organizations from the area including the newly founded student organization NSU VETTS. We have been recruiting volunteers to work with setup, teardown or whatever they are available to do, within the VETSS group as well as any other interested individual or group, said Angela Walker, NSU VETTS president. This will also be a chance for local Vietnam Veterans to be given a hearty welcome home that, for some, is long overdue. I am so very thankful for their service and sacrifices and being able to volunteer is a way to give back to those who went before me. The original Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington D.C., designed by Maya Lin, was built using two walls that are 246 feet 9 inches in length. At the highest point the wall is 10 feet 1.2 inches. This wall is three-quarters of the size of the one in Washington D.C., said Pastor Garland Thomas, Dignity Memorial Vietnam Wall escort. Thats why having it at the Sequoyah High School football field is going to be really great because we have some really good level ground to lay it on. Oseland said he would also like to extend an invitation to the school systems in the area to bring their students and show them a part of their heritage that is not a part of their curriculum. Because this is part of our countrys history and they should be given the opportunity to learn about the culture. My grandpa was in the Vietnam War, said Denton Hopkins, Stillwell junior. When I was little he used to tell me a bunch of stories and something I remember him telling me was that it changed his life. They are some of the most courageous men who went over there and fought and many of them came back and had great lives and did many great things. The memorial will be on exhibit April 17 through 21 at the Sequoyah High School Football Field, located at 17091 South Muskogee Avenue in Tahlequah. It is free to come and view the wall and it will be open to the public 24 hours a day, there will be counseling services and pastors for those who need it, as well as volunteers to help people with finding specific names on the Wall. For more information, email bagwellj@nsuok.edu.

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Page 13 April 9, 2013

FE AT URE

Students choose academia over summer fun


ALYSSA GREGORY
CONTRIBUTING WRITER The decisions can be endless when summer arrives and students must decide to continue schooling or take a break. Enrollment for classes has begun and students must choose summer school or summer fun. We typically have around 9,000 students in a fall or spring semester and about 3,500 students in a summer term, said Brian Searcy, student success specialist. Students may choose from online, in class and blended classes during the summer. The selection of certain classes may be more limited though. There are around one third of total class offerings offered in a summer versus fall or spring term, said Searcy. Students should be able to find a good selection of summer courses, especially if they enroll at their earliest opportunity. Of course, there may not be as many offering of a particular class, but they ought to be able to find many options for various classes. Not all students want to stay in the classroom setting. I have never and dont plan on ever taking summer classes because I like my free time, said Chris Beatty, Prue sophomore. Others embrace the extra time in the classroom as an opportunity to speed up their college experience. I have taken summer classes every summer, said Tricia Price, Wright City junior. I am taking summer classes, because I want to get ahead and graduate early. I set the goal to graduate in five years instead of six which means I get a great education in less time, and I can get to the workforce and start making a difference in the world sooner. Those with high expectations and goals feel pressed for time. I am taking summer classes because I am double majoring, said Michael Crockett, Fairland freshman. I dont have time in the normal year to take all the classes I need and want to get out of college before my scholarship runs out. Some students see it more as time filler. I have taken summer classes for four years, said Lauren Pate, Broken Arrow junior. I am taking them again this summer, because Ill be in town and they will help keep me busy. Running only in June and July, summer classes create a different setting for students. I believe every faculty member tries to make their summer class the same as their spring or fall class, said Dr. Don Studebaker, professor emiritus. I have to evaluate the students differently in four weeks than sixteen because it is fast paced and longer classes, which is sometimes harder for students. It is difficult for students and teachers to concentrate for that short amount of time. This setting is perfect for some students. I like intense learning atmospheres, and I enjoy learning in different ways, said Price. I can sit in a classroom for three hours, and I can go right after that and sit in a different classroom for another three hours. First time summer school participants can only imagine of what their summer will consist. I dont expect my schedule to be too hard because they are gen eds, but the fast pace of taking four classes, consisting of almost eight hours a day, every day and cramming in time for homework and studying will be a big challenge, said Crockett. Some think the fast-paced classes enhance their learning. They are faster, said Pate. You have to be available practically every day, but you remember more because you are doing it more frequently. Plus, you get a whole class in eight weeks instead of 16, and you get to concentrate on one specific class. Tests sometimes arise out of the classroom. The hardest challenges of taking summer classes is not getting distracted by your friends that arent taking classes and to use your time wisely to stay on top of your work, said Pate. It also is hard having to go to class every day. To handle the workload, students prepare much the same and focus on timeliness. My methods for enduring summer school are simple, said Pate. Go to class. Take it seriously. Dont get behind. Do my work. From diminishing your course load to shortening the time to graduation, summer classes can be helpful. For the dedicated student, summer classes provide a great opportunity to get ahead and progress toward their degree, said Searcy. However, for a student who must work a lot or who has many distractions, summer classes may not be the best decision. Another potential reason is pure exhaustion. I think summer classes could really hurt a student, because if they dont have down time between semesters, one could very well burnout on school, said Beatty. Especially if they had a rough time with fall and spring classes. Help or hurt, it is ultimately up to the student to decide. I dont think any class a student takes hurts them because it expands their knowledge, said Studebaker. Its tricky though if the student doesnt have the correct mind set for summer classes because it is a different tempo. Advantages and disadvantages are present in nearly all decisions not excluding summer classes. I would recommend summer classes if the student could learn in that environment, said Price. I dont recommend them for students who cant sit still and who tend to zone out for the majority of class. People learn differently, and I recommend that they take the classes that they will get the most information from and that will benefit them in the long run. Enrollment is here, and summer classes are up for grabs. I would endorse summer classes for students who have the time and dedication in the summer months to attend classes and study, said Searcy. It makes sense to stay focused and get your degree and move on to the next chapter of your life, rather than taking long breaks. For more information, email gregor05@nsuok.edu.

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Page 14 April 9, 2013

Social Dance Society highlights ballroom dancing


DESTINY HILLHOUSE
CONTRIBUTING WRITER In an atmosphere usually filled with stress and, for some, a consistent lack of sleep, a small group holds onto the notion that college can still be a time of fun and social interaction through different techniques besides typical verbal communication. Social Dance Society is an .organization that meets 6:30 p.m. Thursdays in the UC basement. SDS offers a variety of free dance lessons to NSU students and the Tahlequah community. Every month, we teach a different style of dance, Kevin Neal, SDS vice president said. Neal also said SDS will teach any kind of ballroom dancing, so the members are not limited to a few select styles. SDSs next upcoming event is a Country Dance from 6:30-9:30 p.m., April 18. Two-step, line dancing and east coast swing lessons will be offered before dancing the night away. Our next dance is open to NSU and the public. Couples are $8, singles are $5 and members are free, Neal said. SDS also does various fundraisers throughout the semester. We have done welcome-back dances, watermelon sales, even dinner and hot dog sales. Alana Jordan, SDS fundraiser coordinator, said. Neal also said to be on the lookout for upcoming fundraisers, including penny wars, candy guessing games and more. While dancing may offer many health benefits, there are also benefits to an SDS membership.

Students participate in Media Day

Wesley Coburn/Contributing Photographer Shane Devers, Sand Springs junior, Zach Tucker, Oklahoma City junior, and Kyle Eubanks, Sallisaw graduate student, judge sports writing entries for this years Media Day. Media Day is an annual event, sponsored by the Media Studies program that allows students to submit works to be judged by NSUs chapter of the Society of Collegiate Journalists.

You meet a lot of good people and learn different styles of dance, and the people in SDS are really down to earth, Neal said. I mean, I wouldnt say were a big, happy family, but were friends nonetheless. For students there are a variety of reasons to commit to an organization. Amber Mauck, Tulsa sophomore, said dance is an enjoyable activity, and the reason she became a member of SDS. Mauck said she has been a member of SDS for about a semester, and her favorite dance is

the East Coast Swing. Besides good people and a fun time, Jordan said there is an even greater advantage to being a part of SDS. It relieves stress, Jordan said. If you need to get away from school work, just go dance. Jordan said she would like to see SDS grow big enough to hold dance performances in front of the student body. She wants SDS to help people become more outgoing and comfortable in their own skin. Its taught me to not be as shy around people, Jordan said. I

used to be afraid to even talk to people, and now I can dance in front of them and feel comfortable. As of this semester, SDS is a small organization of only about five to six members. However, Neal is confident of a greater future for SDS on campus. We just want to teach people to dance and for SDS to be the talk of the day, Neal said. What did you do today? I learned to dance. For more information, email Hillhous@nsuok.edu.

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Page 15 April 9, 2013

A&E

Pursley directs Lend Me a Tenor for NSU theatre


DREW BENNETT
TNE WRITER The NSU Theatre Company is often working on something to entertain others. April 10-13 they will perform Ken Ludwigs Lend Me A Tenor, directed by Scott Pursley. The play is set in a theater in September 1934. The manager of the Cleveland Grand Opera Company is primed to welcome a world-famous Opera singer named Tito Morelli, Il Stupendo, the greatest tenor of his generation, to appear for one night only as Otello. Things go awry, however, when the singer arrives late. Through a series of mishaps, he is sedated to the point that he is assumed dead. What follows is a series of hilarious events as the manager scrambles to try to save the night, eventually getting someone to pretend to be their presumably dead guest star. Things only become more complicated when Tito wakes and goes to continue a performance his imposter is already doing. Lend Me A Tenor is a farce of the highest order, said Caleb Dobbs, Salisaw senior. It is definitely one of the most wellwritten productions I have been involved in. Dobbs will play the role of Frank the Bellhop. It is also be his last performance at NSU. He, like many others in the theatre department, has worked hard to provide live theater for NSU and support the arts. I love plays like his, said Jon Sietz, Tulsa senior. It really says something when you are able to enjoy a play just for its comedic value without a big budget. I cant stand most movies these days just for that reason. Dobbs said there are a multitude of reasons everyone should support them. Our company works hard to bring real, live theatre for a reasonable price, said Dobbs. Not to mention, this is my last show. I might have just a minor role, but because of the community feel of the play, it is an important one. Dobbs said each of them works

Caleb Dobbs/Contributing Photographer Taylor Melone, Tulsa sophomore, works on set for Lend me a Tenor. Theatre students take part in all aspects of theatre.

off of one anothers characters in order to make this a success. In all seriousness, spend the little bit of money and come have a laugh, said Dobbs. We are group of learners, something NSU tries to be all about. In a world where the Arts is being pushed to the side, take your

stand and come watch. Those interested in seeing the play may purchase their tickets at the NSU Playhouse. All seats are $5. Students can also call the NSUTC for more information at 918-444-2789. For more information, email Bennettn@nsuok.edu.

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A&E

Page 16 April 9, 2013

Powwow celebrates American Indian culture


ANDREW SCOTT
TNE WRITER American Indian culture plays a large role in the NSU community. The university is in the middle of Cherokee Nation and has the largest American Indian population of any four-year university. NSU wants to keep American Indian culture alive, and one way they are doing this is through a Powwow. Powwow is an intertribal gathering, where many tribes come together for social dancing, said Dr. Phyllis Fife, director of Center of Tribal Studies. We use it as a way to come together as a celebration because NSU has faculty and students that come from around 50 different tribes. NSU has been hosting this powwow for around 41 years, and it is a great way to end the symposium. These powwows are not only representing the Cherokee tribe but many others. Powwows originated from tribes north of Indian territory and some from the west, said Fife. For the tribes that came to Oklahoma from east of Indian Territory, powwows were foreign to them. So the dances, outfits and drumming that you will see in the powwow are from a mixture of tribes. Something that many people may not know is todays powwows are a relatively new gathering. The roots come from war dances and ceremonies from the old days, but nowadays what we know as a modern day powwow began right after the world wars, said Dr. Kimberly Lee, assistant professor of English. They be-

Andrew Scott/TNE Kelly Anquoe, NSU powwow emcee, leads a drum circle. The Powwow is April 12 and 13, and is open to all community members.

gan by Native Americans welcoming home soldiers from the war and they caught on. Today, the powwow held at NSU can be used for the same reason. People attend powwows for different reasons. Some alumni attend to visit old friends. Others attend to come together in fellowship. For some it serves as a homecoming, said Fife. Alumni can come back and see old friends or a tourist attraction. People

travel from all over to be a part of a powwow, or a way to come together. Oklahoma has 39 recognized tribes, and the powwow is a place where they all can come together. The event is April 12 from 6-8 p.m. and April 13 from 2-7 p.m. It is free and open to the public. There will be vendor booths that sell handmade bead work, baskets and many different arts, said Fife. In addition to vedors, there will

be other cultural activities. Our drum circle will do the opening ceremony on Wednesday, said Travis Wolfe, graduate student. I am excited to showcase our culture and what we do. Kelly Anquoe, powwow emcee, said drum circles and powwows have meaning. We see it as intertribal and interracial. Everybody comes together said Anquoe. For more information, email Scott33@nsuok.edu

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Page 17 April 9, 2013

SPOR T S

RiverHawk baseball prepares for post season


ZACH TUCKER
TNE WRITER The RiverHawk baseball team played their first 33 games above the .500 mark at 18-15. Now, with less than 20 games to play in 2013, it is time to play consistent ball. The last stretch of the season will determine how much damage NSU can do to the Central Region and the MIAA Conference. We have really shown flashes of our potential lately, now it is time to win our last half of games to separate us from other teams, said Kegan Knight, senior short stop . NSU is fresh off a three-game sweep against Washburn University. The RiverHawks took down the Ichabods 6-3, 6-4 and 11-6 on March 29-30. Trevor Walch, senior pitcher was named MIAA Pitcher of the Week to go along with being named National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA) Pitcher of the Week for the Central Region. Walch has only given up four hits in his last five outings to go along with 17 strikeouts. The seniors throwing has made it easy for the RiverHawks to win games and has taken a lot of pressure off NSU. The men have gone on hot and cold streaks in 2013, but the RiverHawks do not let a couple of losses affect their confidence. Throughout all the ups and downs, we have really stuck together as team, and I think that is what will separate us from other teams in the end, said Greg Jackson, senior outfielder. Nine out of 14 losses for NSU have come by three runs or less. That stat proves the talent level of the RiverHawks and they know they can hang with any team in the conference on any given day. Weve been close almost every game this season, said Jackson. We just need to finish games better. The MIAA Baseball Conference Tournament is right around the corner, and at this point in time, it is a toss up. Missouri Western and Central Missouri have shown to excel in league play, but both teams have losses to average teams in the MIAA. The conference tournament is any teams to grab. Reaching their full potential will be the key for NSU to hang with the heavy hitters of the MIAA conference. I believe we have really turned up our defense and hit the ball well as of late, said Preston Cash, sophomore first basemen . Our pitching has really stepped up as well. The MIAA Conference Championship first round will be played at campus sites May 2-5, and the winners of those games are set to face off in Kansas City May 9-11. If we take care of the things we can control, we set our own limits, said Cash. Next for the RiverHawks is rival University of Central Oklahoma April 9 at home. A doubleheader with the first pitch is set for 1 p.m. at Thomas C. Rousey Field. For more information, email tuckerz@nsuok.edu

Courtesy Photo Andrew Walker, freshman infielder, hits a home run during NSUs first game against Lindenwood April 6. RiverHawks baseball currently has an 18-15 record after their first 33 games of the season.

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SPOR T S

Page 18 April 9, 2013

Golf competes in MIAA Championship at Paradise Pointe


MIRANDA CAUGHRON
TNE STAFF WRITER NSUs men and womens golf teams will travel to Paradise Pointe Golf Course in Smithville, Mo. to compete April 22-23 in the 2013 MIAA Championship. The course is located just north of Kansas City and has two 18hole courses. This is our first year in the MIAA, and the fact that our mens and womens golf teams will be participating in the MIAA Golf Championship continues to demonstrate our commitment to excellence in athletics, said Tony Duckworth, director of athletics. We are proud of both teams for their efforts this year and we look forward to them having a great tournament and a great success. Both teams have good records from the overall conference competition. Competing in the MIAA Conference is a good opportunity for both teams, because they will get an automatic chance to compete against each team in their conference one last time before Regionals. I think it is especially gratifying from the fact that we did not have a conference last year so the opportunity to compete for a conference championship was nonexistent for the team, said Scott Pettus, assistant athletic director. So I know this will have a positive impact on our student athletes, Nearly the entire womens team is back from a team that was No. 3 in the nation most of last year. The women have had three solid tournaments in a row this spring. The team played very well in the District 1 tournament at Myrtle Beach. We have had some highs and lows this year, but I really believe our kids are learning how to compete again as a team, said Scott Varner, mens and womens golf head coach. I like where our girls are at mentally, overall. We feel like we are one of the favorites to win the MIAA Championship this year. This will be a huge week for both teams leading up into the post season. This will hold a huge importance for both of the teams to compete well and play their best against these crucial MIAA teams. I think with each tournament we as a team are coming together and becoming stronger, said Kelsey Kirkpatrick, Golden, Texas. I believe we have played in any and all conditions to prepare us and that once its time we will have nothing to hold us back. This will be a great opportunity for our team to show the other teams that we are not to be taken lightly and will always be thought of as the top team in the conference. NSU mens golf has had a history of winning and placing well in conference events over the past many years, and the current team is striving to make sure that the tradition continues. The mens schedule has been a busy one so far since mid-March. The men have had a huge mix of playing conditions, different competitive teams and unique styles of golf courses. With our current standing in the conference rankings, we have shown that we are a very competitive and consistent golf

Miranda Caughron/TNE Kyle Fouts, Dallas senior, lines up a practice shot. The men and womens teams will travel to Smithville, Mo. for the MIAA Championship April 22-23.

team, said Brady Wood, mens and womens golf graduate assistant. We want other teams to fear the fact that we show up at their golf tournament. I believe that we have done just that. We expect nothing more than to win the MIAA Conference Championship with both our men and our women. For more information, email caughrom@nsuok.edu.

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Page 19 April 9, 2013

SPOR T S

Softball readies for MIAA championship


ZACH TUCKER
TNE WRITER Rain, wind and cold swept across the state of Oklahoma in the recent weeks. The NSU softball has not let the conditions affect their play, winning six out of the last seven games. March 22 NSU went on the road to face No. 11 ranked Fort Hays State. The doubleheader resulted in a split, with the RiverHawks winning the first matchup 2-0 and losing 6-5 in the second half of the day. It was a huge shot in the arm for us to go up to Fort Hays and play the way we did, said Clay David head coach. Shelby Enloe, sophomore pitcher took the mound in the first game against Fort Hays and only gave up four hits in the shutout. The recent success may have come from the senior class. The fourth-year players brought forth a common goal and got the entire team involved. We were not playing as a unit, but we all are now on the same page and working as a team, said Lisa Ripperger, senior infielder. The fate for 2013 rests on one single factor for the RiverHawks, intensity. When the intensity levels are high for NSU, the RiverHawks can be deadly. The NSU Movement really gets us hyped up and we play better at home because of our intensity level, said Ripperger, We need to bring that mindset on the road. The MIAA Conference Softball Championship is scheduled for May 2-4. A high seed for NSU would really benefit their chances

Courtesy Photo Cayce Coleman, senior pitcher, winds up for a pitch against Central Missouri March 29 at RiverHawks Park. The team will play in the MIAA Conference Softball Championship May 2-4.

of coming out on top. Hot bats and solid pitching the rest of the way would ensure their fate in the championship. We really want to finish in the top half of the conference to get

a good seed for the tournament, said Davis. We dont take any team for granted, the MIAA is so stacked from top to bottom that you have to show up to play for any game.

Next on the schedule for NSU is no.10 ranked University of Central Oklahoma. The games, set for April 10, will be a big rivalry matchup for the RiverHawks and a series win would really give the women confidence coming down the stretch in 2013. The first pitch will be thrown at 2 p.m. in Edmond. For more information, email tuckerz@nsuok.edu

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