TNE April 16-2, 2013

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

Volume 104, Issue 29 Tuesday, Apr i l 16, 2013 | Tahlequah, Okla. 74464

Football gears up for the annual Green and White game.

See page 16

Students perform

Opera workshop prepares for Mozart’s “Magic Flute” performance.

See page 19

continued on page 2

continued on page 2

China partnership brings international relations

Football prepares

Possible cure for HIV/AIDS may be on horizon

KELI HOFFMANTNE WRITER

The Office of International Programs is looking to expand their partnerships with universi-ties in China, while offering NSU students the opportunity to work abroad.

Dr. William Rugg, acting ex-ecutive director for international programs, and Alyssa Buckley, acting director for international programs, traveled to China on a recruitment trip recently.

Xuan Li, Weifang graduate, also went.

They attended the China In-ternational Education Expo in Beijing, China, where Buckley worked a booth, distributing bro-chures and answering questions about NSU.

“I think the recruitment is something that a lot of schools are doing, but not a lot of schools take the energy and staff that we did,” said Buckley. “I was the one that staffed the booth. It was important that I did that as an American. To have an American face, someone who is a native English speaker, really sets our school apart.”

They also visited at least three universities, along with high schools and middle schools.

They met with the presidents, provosts, faculty and students at the universities.

Li was there to act as a student ambassador and translator.

“I would tell them as a student how I feel about NSU, like Dr. Rugg or Alyssa cannot tell them,” said Li. “I’m from China. I know what they want, I know what they worry about, and I would tell them how NSU is from a Chinese student point of view.”

Differ-

JACCI ALWORDENTNE WRITER

A recent host of Human Im-munodeficiency Virus is giving scientists a new avenue of medi-cal research to study.

In Mississippi, an infant was

functionally cured of the disease.This tiny human is spreading

hope and generating a buzz with-in the scientific world.

“Researchers have recently reported a case of a child who contracted HIV from its mother at birth, but after treatment, no

longer shows any signs of the vi-rus,” said Dr. Joseph Ahlander, assistant professor of biology. “The child began treatment with the triple combination of HIV in-hibitors within about a day after birth, rather than waiting a few weeks before beginning treat-

ment.” Ahlander said the research-

ers believe this rapid, aggressive treatment prevented the virus from becoming established in the body.

“The terms functionally cured and remission are used to refer to

patients who have tested positive for HIV but after treatment they show no symptoms of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome for long periods of time,” said Dr. Cindy Cisar, associate professor of biology.

A h l a n d e r

Xuan Li, Contributing PhotographerAlyssa Buckley, acting director of international programs,

distributes brochures with information about NSU. Buckley, along with other NSU faculty, recruited students in Beijing, China.

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April 16 , 2013NE W S

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NSU faculty strengthen relations with China

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Potential HIV/AIDS cure causes national buzz

ent exchange programs were discussed in re-gards to bringing Chinese stu-dents to NSU or sending NSU students to China.

Buckley said Rugg visited schools in Taiwan and Vietnam to revitalize partnerships and get students interested in attending NSU.

They spoke at three seminars for each university.

The seminars covered topics such as economics and business in China and America, American

higher education and liberal arts.There are currently 35 Chinese

students at NSU.These students are able to take

classes for any degree program, with the exception of nursing and optometry.

For students and faculty from NSU who are interested in work-ing abroad in China, there are opportunities to do that.

Through an agreement with Weifang University in China, NSU students can teach English to college students and middle-

school-aged children for a mini-mum of six months, to a maxi-mum of one year.

“I think it will help the stu-dents define who they are in our global society,” said Lindsey Tay-lor, graduate assistant. “We aren’t separated from the rest of the world. We’re all interconnected.”

Students interested can apply through the Office of Interna-tional Programs.

If their application is accepted they will be called for an inter-view.

“For graduates who can’t find a job, this is the perfect solution for them,” said Buckley.

Students who are accepted af-ter the interview will have airfare, lodging, transportation within China, paid holidays, free Man-darin classes, and a stipend of about $500 a month, paid for through Weifang University.

There is no limit to the number of students and faculty who can participate.

For more information, email [email protected].

said once the virus has become established, it is nearly impossible to cure it.

He said people should be cau-tious to call this the cure for HIV, since this child is the only case so far where this drug treatment has cured anyone.

He said the same treatment would need to be replicated to see whether it can cure other babies who are infected with HIV at birth, or perhaps newly-infected adults also.

The child was given an anti-retroviral therapy treatment.

“Anti-retroviral therapy refers to a cocktail of drugs, usually three or more, that specifically target retroviruses such as HIV,” said Cisar. “They target a viral enzyme known as reverse tran-scriptase and prevent the virus from replicating.”

This treatment included the use of AZT, 3TC and NVP drugs in hopes that this aggressive ap-proach would be the cure.

“AZT, 3TC and NVP are all in-hibitors of reverse transcriptase,

an enzyme that HIV requires for its replication,” said Ahlander. “Each of these drugs alone can slow down the replication of HIV, but the virus easily mutates and can develop resistance to the drug.”

Ahlander said the suppression of HIV replication is much stron-ger when all three drugs are used together.

“It is much more difficult for the virus to develop resistance to three drugs at the same time,” said Ahlander. “The drug treat-ment works to slow the virus in in-dividuals with an established HIV infection, but they do not become cured, virus free.”

If the child stays in remission, it would be one of only two people to have been functionally cured of HIV/AIDS.

“The difference here is that the drugs were administered very ear-ly to the infant, within 30 hours of birth, and therefore, very early in the infection when the baby’s viral load was low,” said Cisar. “The difficulty with treatment

of adults is that they often do not know that they are infected with HIV. Since AIDS symptoms usu-ally develop when viral loads are high, adults do not receive anti-retroviral therapy early when vi-ral loads are low.”

The only other patient who has been functionally cured is a man who was the recipient of a bone marrow transplant from a donor who possessed a natural resis-

tance to the HIV infection.“Bone marrow transplants are

a promising way to cure HIV,” said Ahlander. “However, bone marrow transplants can carry dangerous risks for the patient, are very expensive and require extensive medical expertise. On the other hand, the HIV inhibi-tor drugs are not expensive, carry fewer health risks and can be eas-ily administered to populations at

risk.”The cure for HIV/AIDS could

be in Mississippi.It could lay in the form of a

child, a child who could have changed the world.

With time and many more ded-icated scientists to research this possible cure, a life-threatening epidemic could be eradicated.


Jacci Alworden/TNEKali Long, Sallisaw junior researches the possible cure for HIV/AIDS. After reading the article

she forms her own opinion on the medical miracle that took place in Mississippi.

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April 16, 2013NE W S

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Ovation ceremony recognizes outstanding studentsANDREW SCOTTTNE WRITER

NSU offers many ways to be involved on campus and in the community. NSU is rewarding a select few for their hard work.

“The Ovation ceremony is de-signed to honor some of the uni-versity’s outstanding students who have been awarded what we con-sider to be our most prestigious honors,” said Jeff Walker, director of first year experience.

The Ovation ceremony began Spring 2010, when first year ex-perience, student activities and the Alumni Association decided to come together for one event. Each department will pass out the award that concerns them.

“First year experience will pass out the Outstanding Fresh-men award, student activities will pass out the Hall of Fame award and the Alumni Association will pass out the Outstanding Senior award during the ceremony,” said Daniel Johnson, director of alum-ni services.

The ceremony honors students that have gone above and beyond for their campus and community.

“The Ovation ceremony is very unique because we honor our out-standing freshmen, outstanding seniors and hall of fame recipi-ents all in one setting,” said Walk-er. “We highlight the achieve-ments of those students who have just begun their academic career as well as those students who have

demonstrated their rock star sta-tus for four years.”

All the awards are chosen in a similar manner. Students who meet the requirements fill out an application and begin an inter-viewing process.

“The Outstanding Freshman award recognizes and honors those freshmen who have made outstanding contributions to campus and community life while maintaining high academic stan-dards,” said Jennifer Ford, univer-sity adviser.

Honored freshmen are Devon Beurie, Noble, Sarah May, Tahle-quah, Jacob Jones, Skiatook, Sa-mantha Hill, Wister, Taylor Ever-sole, Oklahoma City, Cydney Dillard, Sallisaw, Devyn Moran,

Fort Gibson, Ja-Li-Si Pittman, Clinton, Conner Schwab, Broken Arrow, and Cameron Thompson, Inola.

“Outstanding Seniors receive a certificate, one year membership to the alumni association and a stole to wear at commencement,” said Johnson.

Honored seniors are Devin Basinger, McAlester, Morgan Bazone, Oakhurst, Erielle Buck-master, Sarah Fletcher, Musk-ogee, Lauren Davey, Claremore, Megan Edmonds, Inola, Christie Fullerton, Colcord, Cale Fulps, Broken Arrow, Whitney McAteer, Jenks, and Kaelyn Grant, Tahle-quah.

The Jack Kaufman award, giv-en to top seniors, will be awarded

at the ceremony April 20.“The seniors selected for the

Kaufman award receive a three year membership to the Alumni Association, complimentary tick-ets to the Emerald Ball and a monetary award of $500,” said Johnson.

Students seem to welcome the recognition from the university.

“I think it is an amazing what they are doing,” said John Moore, Grove junior. “I feel as if it is a very noble thing for NSU to take the time to set aside money, recog-nition and honor for these people that worked so hard not expecting anything, that they actually receive something for what they deserve.” For more information, email [email protected].

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April 16, 2013OP INION

Adviser: Cassie Freise ext. 2874 Editor-in-Chief: Ashley Rogers ext. 2890 Layout & Design Editor: Adam Wallace ext. 2890 Ad Manager: Kyle Eubanks ext. 2890 Senior Ad Staff: Chelsea Moser Advertising Rep: Audra Hurley Senior Staff Writer: Blake Harris Media Coordinator: Haley Stocks TNE Staff: Jacci Alworden James Bagwell Drew Bennett Miranda Caughron Meredith Barker Keli Hoffman Andrew Scott Zach Tucker OfficeManager: TaylorLynnEversole

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: [email protected].

Students look back while moving forwardThe importance of moving for-

ward and looking backThere is much to be said about

ostalgia.It is a force that can bring pain

and joy simultaneously for things that once were and are no more.

It may also be a dangerous thing, as it can take very little to obscure and romanticize the past.

That is not to say it is always bad, but like most things, the best way to enjoy it is in moderation.

Graduation is quickly coming for the spring semester.

This time can be one of uncer-tainty for many students.There may be excitement for the future or the longing of the old.

Students may worry about leaving campus, a place some have called home for a number of years.

When thinking about gradua-tion, it can be good to think about how it felt when you graduated from high school.

Most likely you have fond memories of that day, and maybe even of the four years you spent there.

Too often though, we forget the struggles we faced during those times as well.

More than likely you had friends in high school, but chanc-es are you probably had moments where you felt alone as well.

There were probably moments in high school that you could not wait to leave, wondering what you would be when you grew up.

That mindset could have been the inspiration behind attending college.

You were anxious to take that next step in your life.

No matter how grim and un-certain things may seem, you should never fear the future.

The future is overflowing with hope and new things to experi-ence.

It may be best to keep in mind, that you can only experience a sense of nostalgia because you were able to have a new experi-

ence and create a memory.College was a new experience,

and you are a determined person for dedicating yourself to it long enough to make it to graduation

Most likely that determination will benefit you moving forward into your next journey.

It may end soon, but just like before, leaving only means you will have an opportunity to remi-nisce on this time.

Chances are one day you will gloss over the bad experiences of college as well.

While heading toward the fu-ture, also remember to live right now.

Do not let the things that may happen stop you from experienc-ing the present.

College students often have this dilemma.

They are either burning them-selves out trying to get through college to enjoy the experience, or they are so busy reveling in the college life that they neglect their coursework.

Nostalgia is a strange thing, al-lowing us to remember things as we think they were, but not neces-sarily how they actually were.

Looking back all of the time can make it difficult to move for-ward, as well as make it hard to appreciate new things.

It can be important to focus on all of these things.

Remember the past, enjoy life’s moments as they happen, and al-ways continue to move forward.

Adam Wallace/TNEBlake Harris, Coweta senior, looks through an old year-

book. Yearbooks can be a way for students to reminisce on old times, and focus on the nostalgia of their high school days. It is important for students to also remember their future while looking into the past.

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Creative writing inspires student expressionMATTHEW MONKCONTRIBUTING WRITER

During her visit, Ekere Tallie said it is the job of the writer to see. She said life trains us not to see, and creative writing is a form of rebellion. This rebellious art form is something that has con-formed in recent years, but has started to speak out once again, with the published poet’s visit highlighting the return of cre-ative writing to the NSU campus.

Christopher Murphy, instruc-tor of English, said the return of creative writing is an important aspect of the college curriculum.

“It’s a major art, and college is the generator of major arts,” Murphy said. “Colleges should have dance, theater, music as well as writing. That includes rhetoric, literature as well as creative writ-ing.”

NSU currently offers degrees in theater and music but not spe-cifically in creative writing. Mur-phy has confidence it will come in due time.

“We want to get creative writ-ing as a minor, as well as create a more consistent presence on

campus,” Murphy said. “Creative writing’s immediate impact is the community that it builds amongst the students. Students stay in contact with each other after the class, sharing stories and helping each other. Creative writing is a place to express yourself, work on your creativity and be comfort-able writing.”

It is this sense of community that Tallie echoed.

“One of the best things about creative writing in general is that it grants you the opportunity to validate your voice, hear yourself and those around you, learn what is truly important to yourself and build a community around that.” Tallie said.

Murphy credits Tallie’s voice to a very powerful message de-livered in a distinct voice, stating that her visit was important to not only the students but to the Eng-lish department as well.

“Getting Tallie to come here is a great step to grow creative writ-ing, as it brought the entire de-partment together,” Murphy said.

“Her visit is important to help grow the community but also to raise public awareness about cre-ative writing. Writers of all types and levels can come together and learn another approach to the craft from a very talented, power-ful, young working poet.”

Kindra Swafford, Salina junior, contributed Tallie’s visit as a cre-ative springboard for herself. She said the reach of creativity goes beyond just words.

“Ekere’s visit inspired me to the point that I went home after the reading, wrote a short story and painted a masterpiece for my figure drawing class,” Swafford said. “She showed me that, even if I am different than others, or if I’m in the worst predicament you can be in, you can find creativity in anything.”

This kind of free thinking and creativity is what Tallie discussed with those who attended her workshop.

“We stunt our growth as intel-lectuals if we put our mind in a box,” Tallie said. “We need that

release of thoughts to help grow as people. If you let yourself go, whatever is most important will come to you.”

Tallie said there are some im-portant things in life you can learn to cope with through writ-ing, and creative writing offers you the best possible way to deal with them.

“It’s nice to have someone you trust, either an instructor, men-tor or a peer, to help you with your writing,” Tallie said. “Hav-ing someone who is further along than you is really important. It was critical to have in my own writing, as it is really important to have someone that tells me to think about what I am doing with my pen.”

Swafford said she feels a growth in her ability thanks to Murphy and the creative writing class.

“I do believe I am growing as a writer,” Stafford said. “I am more able to work through writer’s block and see the story through the blank pages.”

Murphy offers instructional help in classes. He hopes to have other published speakers to de-liver their message to NSU.

“We hope to make this a regu-lar event,” Murphy said. “We hope to build from this and make it a yearly happening.”

The growth of creative writing comes down to the people who want to express themselves and find their voice. Tallie has advice for anyone who is looking to do just that.

“Write whenever, wherever and however you can,” Tallie said. “Just write.”


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Honors student selected for study abroad in WalesMIRANDA CAUGHRONTNE WRITER

Martyne Chanslor, Brad Hen-ry Award recipient, will travel to Wales to represent NSU.

“The benefit for Northeastern State University for our students to participate in the Brad Henry Study Abroad program is two-fold, both academic and cultural experiences that are provided by an institution that has been a proven partner with the states,” said Dr. Steve Turner, NSU presi-dent.

Chanslor will enroll in classes at Swansea University, live in the

dormitory, eat on campus and participate in a foreign university as an international student.

“I think that this year’s selec-tion, Martyne, is simply an exten-sion of other great students that have come before her,” said Turn-er. “We are honored that since the inception of the Brad Henry Study Abroad program NSU has always been represented.”

Chanslor will be in Wales for the spring semester of 2014. She will be at Swansea University for about five months, January through June.

“I am looking forward to the classes,” said Chanslor. “I hope

to take Teaching English as a Foreign Language and literature classes. Studying at Swansea Uni-versity is an amazing opportunity, and I’m excited to learn as much as I can.”

The Brad Henry Award pro-vides all school and housing ex-penses for a semester at Swansea University. She applied for this scholarship through the Office of International Programs.

“Martyne has never studied abroad, and as our office believes, study abroad is a life-changing experience,” said Alyssa Buckley, acting director of international programs.

After being called back for an interview, the scholarship search committee recommended her to President Turner, who nominated her to the board of regents.

“Martyne will come back a different student, a different per-son, more of a global citizen and hopefully with many great stories that will encourage other NSU students to study abroad,” said Buckley.

Chanslor is an honors student, with a major in English and a minor in linguistics, and she will be able to take courses that count toward her major, in addition to taking courses that only Swansea

University offers. “My purpose for going is to

study at Swansea University and represent NSU there,” said Chanslor. “I hope this study abroad opportunity will not only increase my own cultural and academic experience, but also al-low me to encourage other NSU students to take advantage of the study abroad opportunities avail-able to them. I am very grateful to NSU, President Turner, and the regents for awarding me this scholarship, and I want to make the most of it.”


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Students prepare for commencementDREW BENNETTTNE WRITER

There is no denying it. The 2013 spring semester is coming to a close, and with it comes gradu-ation for seniors. A lot goes into making a graduation ceremony happen, from setting up the loca-tion, to making sure students are properly prepared for the event.

There is work to be done for both university staff and soon-to-be alumni.

Preparations for graduation start at the beginning of each semester. The commencement committee, made up of represen-tatives from all over campus, re-views the previous ceremony, talk about what they liked and what they would like to implement in the next one. They then choose a location and prepare it for the event.

Traditionally, the ceremony is meant to be one big event that would happen on Saturday that takes place outside.

However, after six straight years of inclimate weather get-ting in the way, causing staff to spend additional money and man power to tear down the stage and move it elsewhere, the ceremony was broken up into four smaller ceremonies and moved indoors.

The four ceremonies now take place over the weekend. The College of Education ceremony takes place on Friday, and the Colleges of Science and Health Professions, Oklahoma College of Optometry, College of Liberal Arts and College of Business and Technology are on Saturday.

All of these ceremonies take place at the NSU Jack Dobbins Field House. This is the last year

the commencement ceremonies will take place in the Jack Dob-bins Field House as construc-tion for the new event center is planned to be complete by the end of the year.

Because of the limited seating in Field House, students will only have a limited number of tickets to for friends and family.

Most will be given seven, but

depending on the college ceremo-ny some may receive more. Addi-tional seats will be made available in the Webb Auditorium.

Tickets can be picked up from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m on May 10 in the Office of the Registrar on the up-per level of the Case Building. Graduates will also receive an official name card for use at the ceremony. Graduates must bring

proper identification to receive these items.

Gowns, caps, diploma frames and tassels, among other gradua-tion paraphernalia, are available at the RiverHawk Shoppe. They will be available until the ceremo-ny, though the sooner graduates buy them, the better.

“This last December we actu-ally had two students show up to the ceremony on Saturday without anything,” said Jerrett Phillips, executive director of en-rollment management. “I mean, they were dressed nicely, but they didn’t have anything they would need to graduate. We were able to within five minutes get them fully set up. So we are very accommo-dating, but we prefer our students to be prepared when they show up.”

The alumni center also plays a

part in graduation. Anyone that graduates will be an alumnus and will be invited to join the Alumni community. When signing up for graduation along with the usual $40 fee, there is an optional fee of $25, which allows you to join the Alumni Association.

“What we try to do is keep Alumnus connected to the school community,” said Daniel John-son director of alumni relations development. “By joining the as-sociation, graduates can stay con-nected with each other, as well as enjoy the benefits of discounts and the many alumni group events we host.”

Graduation is May 10 and May 11. Information about the ceremony and schedule is avail-able on the NSU website.


James Bagwell/TNEHaley Stocks, Tahlequah senior, picks out her tassel for May

commencement. The tassel color represents the college from which each graduate is receiving their degree.

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NSU recognized as 2012 Tree Campus USA Thanks to efforts to preserve

and develop its campus wood-land, Northeastern State Uni-versity has been recognized as a 2012 Tree Campus USA.

The Tree Campus USA pro-gram, a partnership of the Arbor Day Foundation and Toyota, re-

quires colleges and universities to achieve five standards for consid-eration: developing a campus tree advisory committee, creating a campus tree care plan, allocating a budget for the campus tree pro-gram, observing Arbor Day and participating in a service learning project.

“It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to meet the require-ments necessary for Tree Cam-pus designation,” said Ronnie Grayson, Tree Campus Advisory Committee chair. “By meeting the standards, it shows that we care about the campus trees and are serious about sustaining a

healthy campus environment.”The committee is sponsoring

an Arbor Day Celebration in conjunction with the 41st Sympo-sium on the American Indian.

The Arbor Day observance is April 12 from 2:30-3:50 p.m. at Centennial Plaza and open to the public.

NSU established its advisory committee in 2010. Grayson and other members have helped make the university a Tree Campus USA for three consecutive years.

“The Tree Campus USA pro-gram and the advisory commit-tee are instrumental in bringing about awareness of the benefits

of trees to the campus and sur-rounding community,” said Gray-son. “The program encourages best practices in tree care man-agement which results in health-ier trees, ultimately benefiting the environment.”

Many facets of the environ-ment and ecosystem are depen-dent on trees to thrive. Such fac-tors are considered by the com-mittee when making decisions.

“Healthier trees provide shade and wind breaks and offer green gathering spaces for a more invit-ing campus environment,” said Grayson. “Tree leaves help clean the air, and the roots benefit the

soil and water. Trees also provide food and a habitat for wildlife.”

Grayson said interested stu-dents are welcome to join the Tree Campus Advisory Commit-tee for a learning opportunity and involvement in an environmental preservation effort.

“As students participate, they learn and become more aware of the importance of taking care of their environment,” said Gray-son. “They have a part in the pro-cess and the outcome.”


Press release courtesy of nsuok.edu.

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Alyssa Wilkins/Contributing PhotographerDusty Ballard warms up his pitching arm before throw-

ing out the first pitch at the NSU RiverHawks baseball doubleheader against Fort Hays State University. Ballard, an athlete in Tahlequah Public Schools’ Special Olympics program, was part of an event to help raise money for Tahlequah Special Olympics.

James Bagwell/TNEThe Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, along with the Delta Zeta sorority, perform their piece

for Greek Sing. The theme of Greek Sing was ‘Dancing Through the Decades’ where each performance was based on a decade throughout the 1900s.

Greeks honor decades of musicSpecial athletes practice

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Slut Walk brings awareness to sexual violenceJAMES BAGWELLTNE WRITER

For the second year in a row NSU students are coming togeth-er to show support for those af-fected by sexual violence by par-ticipating in the Slut Walk 2013.

“We are going to have a walk as a way to raise awareness about the rape culture in our society,” said Elaina Ross, vice president of the student branch of the Tahlequah AAUW. “The prem-ise of the Slut Walk came from when a police officer in Toronto was giving a lecture to college-age women about how to be aware of sexual assault, and how to avoid it. He told them that one of the ways that they could do that was to stop dressing like a slut. The students were offended by this and so they created a walk to raise

awareness about it.” The AAUW, American As-

sociation of University women, is a national organization whose purpose is to empower women as individuals and as a community.

The organization has improved the lives of millions of women and their families for the past 130 years.

“A year ago we founded the AAUW organization on cam-pus,” said Molly Turner, NSGA sectary of advocacy and diversity. “We were looking for an event to do and at that time the Slut Walk was just about a year old and it had really taken off. This is the second year that we have had it here and last year’s Slut Walk was, to our knowledge, the first Slut Walk to take place in the state of Oklahoma.”

For some NSU students, this

provides an opportunity to show their support for women’s rights, but for others Slut Walk 2013 hits very close to home.

“A big reason that I wanted to get involved with the Slut Walk and the AAUW was because I had a very close friend who was sexually assaulted,” said Shawna Blake, secretary of the student branch of the Tahlequah AAUW. “You hear statistics about how victims blame themselves and about people blaming the survi-vors of an attack for what they did to cause it, but I did not really see it until her. A big part of the Slut Walk is to fight back against the rape culture that we live in.”

There are many on-campus or-ganizations that show their sup-port for this event including the

Inter-Fraternal Council, Greek Affairs, and NSGA.

Everyone in the Tahlequah area is invited, and is encouraged, to participate in this event.

“I think that as student gov-ernment and as Inter-Fraternal Council we should show support for every facet of our university,” said Matthew Ozturk, IFC presi-dent.

“I have encouraged all of the IFC members to get their chap-ters to participate in Slut Walk 2013. I feel that through promot-ing this event through IFC and Greek Affairs we can start to edu-cate the student population here at NSU.”

There is an information session on April 16, in the UC lounge.

The session is open to every-

one who is interested in Slut Walk 2013.

A Poster Party, where students can make their own poster for the event, begins at 10 a.m., April 17 in the UC lounge.

Those participating in Slut Walk will gather at 11:15 a.m. at the Be the Change fountain, with the walk beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Participants will rally at the Second Century Square at noon, where there will be free food and T-shirts.

A feedback session for the event will be at 2:30 p.m., April 18 in the UC lounge.

Students are encouraged to come and reflect on their experi-ences.


Peter Henshaw/Contributing PhotographerStudents participate in the 2012 Slut Walk, the first for the Tahlequah community. Slut Walk

was founded to show support for victims of sexual violence.

Page 11


www.nsunews.comCourtesy of Weather.com

Tuesday, April 16

Baseball vs Rogers State Uni-versity

3-6 p.m.Tulsa, Okla. (ONEOK Field)

Circle of Excellence3 p.m.

Tower Room of the W. Roger Webb Educational Technology

CenterTahlequah

Wednesday, April 17

Baseball vs Oklahoma Panhan-dle State University

1-6 p.m.Thomas C. Rousey Field

Tahlequah

Scholastic Book Fair8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Education building lobbyBroken Arrow

Thursday, April 18

Green and White WeekendApr 18–20, 2013

Tahlequah

“Run for Your Colors” 5K color run

5:30 p.m.Centennial Plaza

Tahlequah

Friday, April 19

Natural Sciences Seminar10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Liberal Arts building room 212Broken Arrow

45th annual Honors Assembly7:30 p.m

University Center Sen. Herb Rozell Ballroom

Tahlequah

Saturday, April 20

NSU Music Department presents

Mozart’s The Magic Flute7:00 p.m.

The Center for Performing ArtsTahlequah

Annual Green-and-White game3 p.m.

Doc Wadley StadiumTahlequah

Sunday, April 21

Men’s and Women’s Golf at 2012 MIAA Championship

Apr 21 – 23, 2013Kansas City, MO

Baseball vs University of Ne-braska at Kearney

noon-3 p.m.Thomas C. Rousey Field

Current EventsEntrepreneur repairs smartphonesSHANE DEVERSCONTRIBUTING WRITER

In today’s society the Genera-tion Y population thrives for so-cial media and depends on con-venience. The solution and neces-sity for many is their phone.

Apple products have lead the way in technology in the past de-cades and show no signs of slow-ing down.

With iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers, Apple holds a tight grip on this generation’s social ability for some.

Although man try their hard-est to be careful with their be-longings, Apple products are not invincible. They are dropped, thrown, drowned and sometimes even sat on. Accidents will hap-pen, but buying a new iPhone is not in the best interest of some budgets.

That is where Stephen Ryan Chuculate, Tahlequah junior, comes in.

Chuculate has been fixing Ap-ple products in Tahlequah and the surrounding areas for 4 years.

A master of reviving iPhones, he says he gotten it down to 30 minutes of meticulous handwork.

In the west entrance of the University Center is a corkboard for fliers to be posted for event notices, informational programs, business advertisements and

many other services. “I’ve gotten information from

the board for phone and laptop fixes in the past couple of semes-ters,” said Ryan Freeman, Nowa-ta senior.

There is no pamphlet or ad-vertisement on the board for the work that Chuculate does.

Chuculate is a silent entrepre-neur at NSU and his business produces strictly through word of mouth.

“I never advertise,” said Chuculate. “I don’t have stuff hanging around campus promot-ing or anything. It’s always been just word of mouth besides me posting on Facebook of iPhones for sale.”

Chuculate is one of the few who understand electronic devic-es inside and out. He fixes phones on his own time and says he has been tweaking electronics since he was small.

“I would constantly take things apart and put them back together and eventually got good at it,” said Chuculate. “In 2009, I got confident enough to work on oth-er people’s phones.”

Cracked screens are the usual complaint Chuculate gets, but he does not shy away from the more difficult jobs like water damage or hardware problems. He can also do color conversions and can change the color of almost any

part of the phone. Averaging around three to six

phones per week, he gets plenty of business but does not think he is busy.

“I call him first if anything goes wrong with my phone,” said Drew Curley, Wagoner sopho-more. “People use their phones for a number of things through-out every day.”

Having fixed more than 500 phones in the past 4 years, Chucu-late is well prepared for any prob-lems that an Apple product may throw at him.

When applying to be an Apple Genius, or in-store technician, one must complete a test, which gauges the individual’s technolog-ical knowledge. Chuculate passed that test with flying colors.

“Since the store is located in Tulsa, I decided it was best for my education to stay and finish up college here at NSU,” said Chuculate.

Using his iPhone tech job as a small income, he looks to gradu-ate and pursue his degree but will keep his talent handy for a fall-back job or keep it to the side as an extra means of cash.

Chuculate knows as long as technology is as prevalent as it is now there will always be a need for technicians like him.


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Social networking aides economic woes of studentsNICOLE KELTYCONTRIBUTING WRITER

Facebook gives convenient way to make money

With technology on the rise, everyone can easily access social networks from smartphones car-ried everywhere to the free Inter-net access on campus.

Upon so many people plug-ging into the virtual world it did not take long for people to turn a hassling chore into quick, easy money.

Local Facebook group Tahle-quah Online Garage Sale con-ducts selling secondhand items

or promoting a business as conve-nient as typing a few keys.

“I ended up making a page about five years ago because a cli-ent of mine wanted her photos on Facebook,” said Carrie Moore, university photographer. “Shortly after uploading her photos and tagging her, I had a dozen more likes on my page from people that liked her photos.”

In addition to Moore’s online site, being able to tag clients has helped network her business in a more non-traditional way.

Friends and family can go back to their loved ones photos and see Moore was the photographer.

Using groups Moore can con-duct contests to expand her clien-tele.

“Especially having a photog-raphy business where it’s all vi-sual the Facebook pictures really help,” said Moore. “Facebook isn’t the whole idea but it is defi-nitely a networking tool.”

These groups are also a source of free publicity used to help pro-mote local non-profit organiza-tions and upcoming events.

“We have a lot of members on the Pay it Forward site, in general well over 1,000 members,” said Joseph Hurst, public relations of-ficer. “Then we post to all the sale

sites, pet sites, pretty much all the social sites in Tahlequah before we have an event.”

Personally, Hurst looks more to buy than sell.

“I go into deep research of the item I’m interested in,” said Hurst. “I ask a lot of detailed questions so if it was a scam I could probably pick up on it. Also, I don’t buy scam type ob-jects like stolen merchandise, bro-ken items, imitation products, or posts described incorrectly. When browsing sale groups I avoid posts that will send me to third-party sale sites.”

Not every sale turns out as one would hope.

“I saw this girl posted that she had a bunch of North Face’s,” said Kendra Baize, Gore junior. “The post said still in package and has tags for $60.”

Baize commented her inter-est on the deal then scheduled to meet this person at the popular exchanging place, Walmart park-ing lot next to Your Eye Shop.

“I get there, give her the $60, looked at the package and then went home,” said Baize. “Once I get home I open the package up. The tag was still on it but it looked sketchy. After inspecting the stitching I knew this wasn’t a North Face. Instead it looked like a Walmart jacket that someone put the North Face symbol on.”

Due to having more than 15,000 members, TOGS admin-istrators instilled a list of rules that members are urged to follow.

“We delete posts that advertise selling an item without a picture,” said Samantha Clifford, TOGS administrator.

Clifford said all items must have a price.

TOGS presents a list of rules and banned items on the site for all members to see.

Clifford said this way everyone has a chance to have their item seen, especially with the number of members TOGS has.

Another tactic to not be cheat-ed out of money is to use groups that exchange items by utilizing the ancient technique of barter-ing.

“I think bartering is a very important thing,” said Hurst. “There is a site where you can post items that you have with what you want then you barter back and forth.”

Hurst said the best part is sometimes there’s not even a cash exchange.

Following online safety proto-col, trusting one’s judgment as well as informing an administra-tor of any issues that arise with a sell can help cut down the scams.

“I don’t blame the site, I blame the people,” said Baize. “I think most people are selling their used stuff but if you see something that looks brand new I’d be cautious.”

Most find, even with the down-sides, online garage sales do more good than harm.

“Scamming is always a prob-lem but I still use online garage sale sites,” said Hurst.

Hurst said when somebody sells an item they normally will go buy something else to replace it with.

Moore believes online sites benefit the environment by up-cycling instead of replacing with new materials.

“It’s really kind of what you’re comfortable with,” Moore said.


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Educational grant benefits female studentsANDREW SCOTTTNE WRITER

Being a student at NSU can require much from a person, in-cluding money.

The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International has put to-gether a grant that will assist a female student with an education major.

“Delta Kappa Gamma Soci-ety International is a profession-al honorary society of women educators,” said Denise Deason Toyne, professor of business law. “The society promotes profes-sional and personal growth of its members and excellence in edu-cation.”

The DKG chapter in Tahle-quah is made up of 19 women who are teachers or are retired teachers.

People do not necessarily need to be a teacher to be a part of the society.

Any educator is welcome. They want people who share

the same goals. Their goal is to help fellow

women educators get through college financially.

“This is a grant in aid to pro-vide some financial assistance to a worthy candidate,” said Beth Harrington, DKG member. “It can be used for textbooks or other educational expenses. We know firsthand how expensive it can be to get a degree. Teacher’s candi-dates have a lot of expenses.”

The grant will help with basic needs of students in college and help encourage women in their last year of school.

“The grant is $250 and is meant to encourage women stu-dents, who are seniors in their last

year of education,” said Lynette Osborne, recording secretary.

For anyone interested, the ap-plication process is very simple.

Students need a GPA of at least 3.5 and provide a transcript that shows current enrollment.

“A committee of DKG Beta will review the applications and determine who, among the ap-plicants, stands out as someone

who demonstrates a commitment to excellence in education and service,” said Toyne. “Applicants are asked to provide information regarding their GPA, educational honors and community service.”

Students are excited that a so-ciety is going out of their way to help out educators.

“I feel that it is good that they are helping out senior students

get through school,” said Hailey Crouch, Tahlequah sophomore. “I think more positive organiza-tions, such as this, should be cre-ated for other fields.

Crouch said college is expen-sive for anyone, and women need the help as well.

The women of DKG see the importance of helping fellow women who have the same pas-sions.

“The purpose of the grant is to offset some of the expenses of a student majoring in education,” said Toyne. “We believe that by supporting women who are work-ing toward a degree in education that we can further our mission and help keep the community by assisting those who share our pas-sion for excellence in education.”


Andrew Scott/TNEJeri Barker, Arkoma junior, is researching the Delta Kappa grant in aid. She is looking for ways

that will help pay for college expenses.

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Last BCM Impact of Semester at Second Century PlazaHALEY STOCKSMEDIA COORDINATOR

Amidst the frenzy of the end of a semester, students are still find-ing time to set aside for worship.

NSU’s Baptist Collegiate Min-istry will have their last weekly worship service at 8 p.m. April 29 in the Second Century Plaza.

“The Second Century Plaza was where we began the year and it was a great start,” said Debbie Lipscomb, co-director of BCM. “We wanted to end in the same positive way.”

Orangel Suarez-Perez, BCM intern, looks forward to this event

as a celebration of a year of hard work.

“Having Impact on the Plaza is a way for us to let everyone on our campus know they are welcome at BCM,” said Suarez-Perez. “It is not for believers only. We are here to listen, support, guide and help.”

Lipscomb said this service will be a celebration of the wins of the past year and will be hearing student testimonies

“Some of the wins we’ve had this year have been the interna-tional ministry and its growth, seeing students grow in Christ, three mission trips to Oklahoma

City, New York City and Mem-phis, and the launching of a new program called Velocity which reaches out to freshman and up-per classmen,” said Lipscomb. “Its success can be attributed to the participation of faculty and staff sharing their stories, and also area churches providing a free meal for our students each week.”

The mission statement of BCM is “moving lives forward.” They check each activity and align its purpose with their mission state-ment to ensure the highest effec-tiveness in reaching students.

“Being a part of BCM has impacted my life in a way that I

can never explain,” said Suarez-Perez. “I know I don’t have to be perfect or act like I am. Instead, it’s been a family that has wel-comed, helped, walked with and supported me through every-thing, showing me God’s love and forgiveness.”

Ricardo Sanchez, BCM wor-ship leader, is leading a band that night showcasing senior musi-cians.

“Next year, we are going to be providing programs and events for students to be able to move their lives forward,” said Lipscomb. “Part of this will be accomplished through Impact

by using Ken Hamm’s ‘Founda-tions.’ Ken Hamm is a biblical author of ‘Answers in Genesis’ and founder of the creation mu-seum in Ohio.”

Lipscomb said they hope to equip students with answers such as why should they trust the Bible, where do races come from, do signs confirm the Bible’s history and other challenging questions.

“Even if you have never visited the BCM for whatever reason, come to the Second Century Pla-za and check it out,” said Suarez-Perez.


Page 15

April 16, 2013

www.nsunews.com

A & E

NAB creates entertainment opportunitiesMIRANDA CAUGHRONTNE WRITER

Shawn James and the Shape-shifters will perform April 18 at NSU.

The concert is sponsored by NAB and will feature opening act, Jessie Thompson.

The concert begins at 7 p.m. in the Second Century Square lo-cated between the business build-ing and the UC.

“Students should come out to the concert Thursday because it is a great free way to have fun on campus,” said Tricia Price, NAB chairman of the board. “We are bringing in a great musical group, everybody’s going to really enjoy it. It is going to be a lot of fun and is a great way to meet new people, as well as hang out with your friends.”

Shawn James has a soulful sound that is something between folk music and blues.

The opening act is Jessey Gen-eral Thompson.

He has recently played shows with Turnpike Troubadours.

“I chose these artists, because each of them have a great sound,” said Jordyn Jorgenson, NAB con-certs chairman. “I am hoping to expose the students to something a little out of the ordinary. Stu-dents can expect a very chill at-mosphere showcasing great music and the use of a banjo.”

Students can volunteer to help with the concert by passing out fliers the day of the show, helping the artists unload and load equip-ment, or helping with the event’s sound check.

“I think it is really unique,” said Morgan Helterbrand, NAB PR chairman. “We have never

brought anyone like him before, and I am pretty excited. It should be really good. It’s a little bit of diversity on campus. It is not just regular pop music that pretty much everyone listens to now.”

Helterbrand said she thinks it is a good experience for students to be exposed to different types of music.

Last fall, NAB had a small acoustic show in the Under-ground featuring The Swon Brothers, who are now competing on NBC’s “The Voice.”

“I think NAB provides a variety of concerts and it’s a great oppor-tunity for students to see live per-formances from various artists,” said Sarah Johnson, coordinator of campus activities. “It is also an opportunity for students to actu-ally perform. We have had lots of concerts where students can

actually come out and showcase their talents on campus. It’s a lot of fun, everyone loves live music.”

As the end of the semester draws near, studying for finals can hinder students’ ability to relax and have a good time.

Events such as concerts and open mic nights can have an im-pact on the way students cope with stress and help distract them from their studies by offering them a mental break.

Volunteering for a concert can be a great way for students to ex-pose themselves to new genres of music and possibly even make a connection with an artist before their big break.

Students interested in volun-teering should email Jordyn Jor-genson at [email protected].


Miranda Caughron/TNEMorgan Helterbrand, NAB PR chairman, prepares for the NAB

concert 7 p.m., April 18 in the Second Century Square. Shawn James and the Shapeshifters will perform live at NSU with opening act, Jessie Thompson.

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April 16, 2013A & E

www.nsunews.com

Opera workshop brings the magic of Mozart to TahlequahJACCI ALWORDENTNE WRITER

A singspiel, the German word for musical play, is coming to Tahlequah.

“A singspiel or, play with mu-sic, is a little different than many types of opera in that all the ac-tion moments are in spoken dia-logue rather than sung, and the musical solos and ensembles car-ry the melodies,” said Dr. Shan-non Unger, assistant professor of voice, opera theater and mu-sic theory. “We thought that this work, performed in English, with an updated script, known as a li-

bretto in opera terms, would be funny, accessible and moving to an audience who might be seeing opera for the very first time.”

Mozart’s “Magic Flute” is new territory for the music depart-ment in terms of full productions of opera, operetta or musical the-ater.

“Dr. Unger and I talked about it and we looked at the people that we had available,” said Nor-man Wika, director of bands. “When you’re doing an opera not anybody can sing any role. Roles are made for a very specific voice type so you have to look. If an op-era calls for a dramatic soprano

and you don’t have one then that could be hard for someone else to sing that part.”

Wika said the department had to look for shows that fit the stu-dents and the community mem-bers. He said they were also look-ing for a show that would be audi-ence friendly.

“The title comes from the premise that evil can be undone by the power of music,” said Un-ger. “A flute endowed with magi-cal powers is the instrument that unites our young lovers, Pamina and Tamino, and makes it pos-sible for them to free themselves from their fears, find their inner

strength and combat the wick-edness that threatens them with floods, fire and treachery. The work is famous among flautists for the haunting melody that car-ries Pamina and Tamino safely through the water and flames.”

The show has been around since 1791. It even has a few fa-mous melodies that the audience might be familiar with.

Wika said the crowd might recognize some of the music, be-cause Redbull produced a com-mercial with featured one of the numbers.

The singers have practiced for this performance all semester.

Wika said the production takes around 500 to 600 hours to pre-pare. He said the opera produc-tion is going to be around a two-hour show including intermis-sion.

“Opera is a synthesis of all the arts,” said Wika. “It is music, it is theater, and it is visual arts, all of it put together. There are a lot of

moving pieces to any opera pro-duction.”

Unger said the most rewarding thing for me is to see our students engaged in the very best that the musical world has to offer.

“I would invite everyone to come out and experience the magic of live theater and mu-sic,” said Unger. “When a large number of people come together and they share such an immense wealth of talent as dancers, sing-ers, actors, instrumentalists and technical production assistants, the experience of live theater whether ballet, opera, musical theater, or dramatic productions, is something that you really need to experience.”

The show will be performed at 7 p.m. on April 18 and 20 at the Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets can be purchased at the door, $7 for adults and $5 for stu-dents.


Courtesy PhotoNSU students from the fall of 2012 perform in the first full

opera presented on campus, “The Pirates of Penzance.” These students look forward to the upcoming show, “The Magic Flute.”

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April 16, 2013S P OR T S

www.nsunews.com

NSU athletics announce new assistant coachNortheastern State football

coach Kenny Evans has an-nounced the hiring of Bradley Thomas as an assistant to the coaching staff.

He will be responsible for the wide receivers.

Thomas comes to Tahlequah after spending the past year at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College in Miami, where he was the running backs coach.

He helped lead the Golden Norsemen to the 2012 Southwest Junior College Football Confer-ence championship.

“We’re pleased to announce the addition of Bradley Thomas,” Evans said. “What stood out to me about him was the discipline he had in his position groups. He

has a good report with his play-ers, and they know they’re going to get a direct, honest, approach. I think he will fit in well here and help move us forward.”

Thomas served as a graduate assistant coach at his alma mater, Evangel University in Springfield, Mo., where he coached the defen-sive backs in 2010.

“I’m very excited about com-ing to NSU and coaching in the MIAA,” Thomas said. “You hear about schools like Pittsburg State and Northwest Missouri State, and I’m excited about the chal-lenge of trying to find ways to beat those teams. I am a competi-tor, and I want to win.”

He also served as the defen-sive coordinator at Dickson High

School in Ardmore, Okla., from 2008-09.

“I try to have a strong, per-sonal relationship with my guys,” Thomas said. “If you are able to build that relationship with your players, then they will run through a brick wall for you. I don’t like to criticize players, but I want to help them fix their mis-takes. There’s obviously no such thing as perfection, but there’s no reason why you can’t strive for it every day.”

Thomas received a Bachelor of Science degree in human services from Evangel in May 2012.

He played free safety as a mem-ber of the Crusaders in 2005 and helped the team win the Heart of America Athletic Conference

Championship.He also played at NEO from

2002-03, winning SWJCFC

championships both years.Press release courtesy of goriv-

erhawksgo.com.

Cedrique Flemming/Contributing Photographer Northeastern State football coach Kenny Evans has an-

nounced the hiring of Bradley Thomas as an assistant to the coaching staff. He will be responsible for the wide receivers.

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Tennis travels to Missouri for MIAA ChampionshipZACH TUCKER TNE WRITER

The RiverHawk tennis team has not let their foot off the gas. Since their loss to Southwest Bap-tist University March 23 the Riv-erhawks have blown out their op-ponents. In the last five matches, NSU has won, with victories of 9-0, 8-1, 9-0, 8-1 and 9-0. This is nothing new for the RiverHawks, who have lost two matches all sea-son. Both losses were lost by one point, falling 4-5 to Drury and Southwest Baptist.

The stat sheet should give NSU nothing but confidence closing the season.

The MIAA Tennis Champion-ship will take place in Springfield, Mo. April 19-22. Results show it will mostly be a two-team race, between NSU and Southwest

Baptist. The RiverHawks must tighten up their doubles game to hang with Southwest in time for the championship matchup.

Adjustments have been made, and the team works daily to get ready for the conference champi-onship.

“We have been practicing hard and challenging ourselves to reach our peak game right now,” said Amanda Stone, head coach.

The peak game from NSU is needed to take down the heavy-weight Southwest Baptist. NSU was swept in doubles in their matchup March 23. If the Riv-erhawks can split the four double matches they have, then the sin-gles play will speak for itself. From top to bottom the Riverhawks can hold their ground in singles with anyone they face.

“We are very excited about con-ference, and we have been work-ing really hard to get ready,” said Ivanka Belejova, Slovakia senior.

NSU has a match against Okla-homa Baptist before heading to Springfield. It is a friendly non-conference match, but the main focus is preparation for confer-ence.

“We will use the matchup against OBU to get ready for next week,” said Stone. “Everyday we remind ourselves why we are working so hard.”

After their run for a conference championship the ladies will work relentlessly and hope for a chance to win a national championship.

“We are very confident heading into the post season, but know that a lot of teams will be trying to take us down,” said Kristina Savchen-kov, Russia senior.


Photo courtesy of RiverHawks AthleticsMartina Bruzikova, Poprad, Slovakia junior, received the MIAA Tennis Athlete of the Week title

for the second week in a row. Bruzikova will join RiverHawks tennis in Springfield, Mo. for the MIAA Tennis Championship.

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Green and White game celebrates semester’s endZACH TUCKERTNE WRITER

It has been 149 days since the RiverHawks set foot on Gable Field at Doc Wadley Stadium. NSU football is back to work this spring, preparing for the Green and White game.

The Green and White football game is the inner-squad scrim-mage at the end of the spring ses-sion of practices. The scrimmage will feature NSU’s football team split into two squads that will face off against each other. The game is set for 3 p.m. on April 20.

The RiverHawks won their last four games of 2012 after losing the first six in their debut season in the Mid-America Intercolle-giate Athletic Association confer-ence.

“Winning our last four games left a good taste in our mouth,” said Paul Lane, assistant coach. “It has really pushed us to work hard this off season.”

Since the last game of the fall season, the team has changed their approach and game plan. The MIAA is full of run-based offenses, and the Riverhawks rec-ognize this.

“Almost every team in our league wants to run the football down your throat,” said Steve Patterson, assistant coach.

The RiverHawks are no dif-ferent. NSU relied on their run game to spread the field. Joel Rockmore, running back, fin-ished the fall season with a bang. The coaching staff is looking forward to seeing Rockmore and their other two strong backs lead NSU in the fall.

“We are blessed to have the running backs we have,” said

Lane. “All three guys run differ-ent, but we will use them all.”

The key to the run game is strong runners and the front wall, which is the offensive line. NSU returns three starters from their line and two others who saw ac-tion in 2012.

Every good offense in football looks for a strong run game to have the opponents’ defense play-ing the ball tight and open up the

field for the aerial route. The RiverHawks have waited a

year to see Louisiana Tech trans-fer Cruz Williams step on the field for NSU. Williams was forced to sit out the entire season last year due to transfer issues. Willams is a 6’4” wide-out who earned play-ing time at Division I Louisiana Tech as a freshman.

“Cruz is just a big body out there with exceptional hands and

we are excited to see how he can help our offense,” said Lane.

The RiverHawks are set to be explosive on defense as well, returning multiple starters from 2012. Langston Jones, linebacker, led the MIAA in tackles for NSU. Jones and the defense will use a year of experience in the MIAA and now know what they will face weekly.

“I like our speed and our depth on defense,” said Patterson. “We are still pretty young, but our in-tensity is there.”

The MIAA is known for two things: being physical and run-ning the football.

If NSU can do those things and avoid giving up the big plays in 2013, then they can set their own limits.


Photo courtesy of RiverHawks AthleticsRiverHawks football practices before the Green and White game. The annual Green and White

football game is scheduled for 3 p.m., April 20 at Doc Wadley Stadium.

TNE April 16-2, 2013

Documents

doc wadley

bone marrow

email scott33nsuok

email tuckerznsuok

email caughromnsuok

email alwordejnsuok

nab pr chairman

press release