Friday, June 30, 2006

Today’s Response
Middle Tennessee State University

Gitmo and the Supremes

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-3 yesterday that the Bush Administration lacks the authority to try the “enemy combatants” being held at Guantanamo Bay Naval Base in Cuba by military tribunal. Dr. Karen Petersen, political science, says, “This ruling is yet another indication of the legal grey zone in which we are operating in the ‘war on terror.’ Although specific to about ten detainees at Guantanamo, the broader implications point to a curbing of executive power. According to the ruling, the President could convene military tribunals if Congress approved such a move. Given that this is an election year, Congress is not likely to make bold moves that would give the appearance of weakness.”

Contact Petersen at 615-898-2708.
kpeterse@mtsu.edu

Don’t bother to knock

MTSU will be closed Tuesday, July 4, because it is a designated university holiday. All offices will be closed, but will resume regular hours of operation (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) on Wednesday, July 5. All undergraduate and graduate students will resume classes July 5. MTSU offices will be open and classes will be held Monday, July 3. The fun, food and festivities of Celebration Under the Stars will take place at MTSU on Tuesday, July 4. (See TR extra below.) There will be no Today’s Response on Independence Day.

In case of campus emergencies, contact the MTSU Department of Public Safety by calling 615-898-2424.

The rockets’ red glare

In most cases, the color in pyrotechnic devices, such as those used on the Fourth of July, comes from a salt. Dr. Preston MacDougall, chemistry, says, “For instance, barium-containing salts, similar to those you may have swallowed or taken in at the other end prior to a gastrointestinal X-ray, are embedded along with an explosive mixture to give a bright green starburst. Immediately above barium on the periodic table, strontium is the key ingredient for the bright reds in a pyrotechnician’s palette. In its elemental form, there would be a high danger of premature explosion. So salts such as strontium carbonate are blended instead. For the blues, take copper salts.”

Contact MacDougall at 615-898-5265.
pmacdoug@mtsu.edu

TR EXTRA

FROM CAMP TO COLLEGE--Kayley Kravitz is a veteran of all three years of Southern Girls Rock & Roll Camp. She studied guitar, bass and piano. In the fall, the 18-year-old graduate of The Webb School in Bell Buckle will attend Boston’s Emerson College, where she will major in journalism with an eye to becoming a music journalist. Simultaneously, Kayley will minor in music at the prestigious Berklee College of Music. She encourages parents to enroll their daughters (ages 10-18) in this year’s camp, which is slated for July 31-Aug. 5. “Not only will they get to learn the ins and outs of the music business—they will gain a self-confidence that will benefit them for the rest of their lives,” Kayley says. Deadline for open registration is TODAY. Contact Kelley Anderson, Anna Fitzgerald or Courtney Sharpe at sgrrc05@gmail.com or call 615-898-8140.

A SLICE OF LIFE—TODAY, noon--The Tennessee Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Summer Bridge Program at MTSU is coming to a close for 27 college freshmen. At noon TODAY, there will be an awards program in the Tennessee Room of the James Union Building. The guest speaker will be Rev. Vincent Windrow, vice president, Zycron Computer Services, Inc. For the two-and-a-half weeks, the students have spent 12 hours a day in math, chemistry, physics, computer science, aerospace and writing classes under the direction of Dr. Barbara Knox in order to sample a taste of college life. Media welcomed at the awards ceremony. Call Knox at 615-898-5311 or bknox@mtsu.edu.

TEACHING ANDREW JACKSON--MTSU and The Hermitage are collaborating in a “Landmarks of American History Teacher Workshop” funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities. “The Hermitage, Andrew Jackson, and “America 1801-1861” will be offered through TODAY and July 10-14 at The Hermitage. These workshops will enable K-12 educators to intensify their study and increase their knowledge of important historical topics through direct on-site experiences. Topics to be explored include “Growing Democracy,” “Cotton Economy and Slavery,” “Indians and Westward Expansion,” “Reform and Religion,” “Women’s Lives in a Changing America,” and “Developing a Distinct American Material Culture.” Contact Dr. Janice Leone, history, at 615-898-5580 or jmleone@mtsu.edu.

GET ACCUSTOMED TO IT--Nine sessions of orientation for new students, called CUSTOMS, will be offered in July for freshmen and transfers on a first-come, first-served basis. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Basic and Applied Science and Mass Communications and undeclared majors will have CUSTOMS July 11-12 and July 24-25. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Liberal Arts and Business and undeclared majors will be held July 6-7 and July 20-21. Transfers may complete CUSTOMS online and be cleared by their advisers to register for fall classes. For more information, call the Office of New Student and Family Programs at 615-898-5533 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/~customs.

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS!--Some 16 MTSU alumni and several faculty members have contributed to the newly published “Encyclopedia of Appalachia.” The title has more than 2,000 entries which provides ready reference to information about the people, culture and history of Appalachia. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation was contacted by scholars at East Tennessee State University’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services about collaborating on the project. CHP Director Dr. Carroll Van West says he agreed to participate because of his interest in southern architecture and because the Applachian region suffers from stereotyping. Contact the Center for Historic Preservation at 615-898-2947.

STAR-SPANGLED PARTY—INDEPENDENCE DAY--Once again, MTSU will host “Celebration Under the Stars.” The party will start at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 4, on the intramural field. There will be games and activities for the youngsters from 5-8 p.m. There will be prizes and promotional giveaways. Wal-Mart will donate the “Celebration Under the Stars” birthday cakes. At 8 p.m., the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s color guard will present the colors. The Tennessee Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic tunes, Sousa marches and inspirational classics. Capping off the evening’s entertainment will be the traditional fireworks display at 9 p.m. Contact Marlane Sewell, steering committee chair, at 615-896-6710. Tune in to WGNS-AM 1450 on July 4 starting at 3 p.m. for any changes in the day’s schedule of activities.

Thursday, June 29, 2006

Today’s Response
Middle Tennessee State University

The art of clogging

For those who recently arrived from a colder climate or those who think “clogging” is the fine art of thwarting plumbers, we present Kory Posey, a 21-year-old MTSU senior who will be competing Friday, July 7 and Saturday, July 8, at Uncle Dave Macon Days in Murfreesboro. “The more modern cloggers use all genres of music,” Posey says. “They use hip-hop, pop, rock. I’ve seen a routine to every song and every genre.” Posey says precision clogging is more syncopation-based, whereas old-time clogging and buck dancing require the dancer to stay in lockstep with the beat.

Contact Posey at 931-205-1190.
kkp2c@mtsu.edu
pposey@copperweld.com

The chemistry of a freedom fighter

How did a chemistry student combat the evil of the Third Reich? Dr. Preston MacDougall, chemistry, uncovered the remarkable story on a recent visit to the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C. The student, Hans Leipelt, “had been expelled from the University of Hamburg because his mother, who had a doctorate in chemistry, was from a Jewish family,” MacDougall says. Leipelt was arrested for raising money for the widow and children of Professor Kurt Huber, a scholar whose anti-Nazi activities with a group called the White Rose led to his execution by guillotine. Later, Leipelt also was executed. MacDougall notes, “On the sixth and final White Rose leaflet, which Hans copied with a portable typewriter, he added the heading ‘And their spirit lives on, despite all!’”

Contact MacDougall at 615-898-5265.
pmacdoug@mtsu.edu

Getting in under the wire

TOMORROW, July 1, is the deadline for new freshmen and transfer students to apply forundergraduate admission to MTSU for the fall semester. Lynn Palmer,director, admissions, says applications received will be considered until July 1 (second priority deadline) or when the undergraduate enrollment capacity is reached, an admissions official said. All mailed applications must have a July 1 postmark. Online applications can be sent until 11:59 p.m. July 1. Hand-delivered applications(http://www.mtsu.edu/~admissn/deadline) must be submitted to the Office of Admissions, Cope Administration Building Room 208, by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, June 30,because the office will be closed July 1.

For more information, call 615-898-2111.
lpalmer@mtsu.edu

TR EXTRA

FROM CAMP TO COLLEGE--Kayley Kravitz is a veteran of all three years of Southern Girls Rock & Roll Camp. She studied guitar, bass and piano. In the fall, the 18-year-old graduate of The Webb School in Bell Buckle will attend Boston’s Emerson College, where she will major in journalism with an eye to becoming a music journalist. Simultaneously, Kayley will minor in music at the prestigious Berklee College of Music. She encourages parents to enroll their daughters (ages 10-18) in this year’s camp, which is slated for July 31-Aug. 5. “Not only will they get to learn the ins and outs of the music business—they will gain a self-confidence that will benefit them for the rest of their lives,” Kayley says. Deadline for open registration is TOMORROW. Contact Kelley Anderson, Anna Fitzgerald or Courtney Sharpe at sgrrc05@gmail.com or call 615-898-8140.

A SLICE OF LIFE—FRIDAY, noon--The Tennessee Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Summer Bridge Program at MTSU is coming to a close for 27 college freshmen. At noon TOMORROW, there will be an awards program in the Tennessee Room of the James Union Building. The guest speaker will be Rev. Vincent Windrow, vice president, Zycron Computer Services, Inc. For the two-and-a-half weeks, the students have spent 12 hours a day in math, chemistry, physics, computer science, aerospace and writing classes under the direction of Dr. Barbara Knox in order to sample a taste of college life. Media welcomed at the awards ceremony. Call Knox at 615-898-5311 or bknox@mtsu.edu.

TEACHING ANDREW JACKSON--MTSU and The Hermitage are collaborating in a “Landmarks of American History Teacher Workshop” funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities. “The Hermitage, Andrew Jackson, and “America 1801-1861” will be offered through June 30 and July 10-14 at The Hermitage. These workshops will enable K-12 educators to intensify their study and increase their knowledge of important historical topics through direct on-site experiences. Topics to be explored include “Growing Democracy,” “Cotton Economy and Slavery,” “Indians and Westward Expansion,” “Reform and Religion,” “Women’s Lives in a Changing America,” and “Developing a Distinct American Material Culture.” Contact Dr. Janice Leone, history, at 615-898-5580 or jmleone@mtsu.edu.

GET ACCUSTOMED TO IT--Nine sessions of orientation for new students, called CUSTOMS, will be offered in July for freshmen and transfers on a first-come, first-served basis. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Basic and Applied Science and Mass Communications and undeclared majors will have CUSTOMS July 11-12 and July 24-25. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Liberal Arts and Business and undeclared majors will be held July 6-7 and July 20-21. Transfers may complete CUSTOMS online and be cleared by their advisers to register for fall classes. For more information, call the Office of New Student and Family Programs at 615-898-5533 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/~customs.

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS!--Some 16 MTSU alumni and several faculty members have contributed to the newly published “Encyclopedia of Appalachia.” The title has more than 2,000 entries which provides ready reference to information about the people, culture and history of Appalachia. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation was contacted by scholars at East Tennessee State University’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services about collaborating on the project. CHP Director Dr. Carroll Van West says he agreed to participate because of his interest in southern architecture and because the Applachian region suffers from stereotyping. Contact the Center for Historic Preservation at 615-898-2947.

STAR-SPANGLED PARTY—INDEPENDENCE DAY--Once again, MTSU will host “Celebration Under the Stars.” The party will start at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 4, on the intramural field. There will be games and activities for the youngsters from 5-8 p.m. There will be prizes and promotional giveaways. Wal-Mart will donate the “Celebration Under the Stars” birthday cakes. At 8 p.m., the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s color guard will present the colors. The Tennessee Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic tunes, Sousa marches and inspirational classics. Capping off the evening’s entertainment will be the traditional fireworks display at 9 p.m. Contact Marlane Sewell, steering committee chair, at 615-896-6710. Tune in to WGNS-AM 1450 on July 4 starting at 3 p.m. for any changes in the day’s schedule of activities.

Wednesday, June 28, 2006

Today’s Response
Middle Tennessee State University

Fancy footwork

The fastest feet in Fayetteville belong to Kory Posey, a 21-year-old MTSU senior recording industry major with a house full of trophies attesting to his expertise in the fine art of clogging. Kory will put his fancy footwork to the test in competition Friday, July 7, and Saturday, July 8, at Uncle Dave Macon Days in Murfreesboro. “I started when I was five years old with my dad and my aunt,” Posey says. “They started taking lessons because they thought it would be fun just to have something to do.” Posey says precision clogging is more syncopation-based, whereas old-time clogging and buck dancing require the dancer to stay in lockstep with the beat.

Contact Posey at 931-205-1190.
kkp2c@mtsu.edu
pposey@copperweld.com

Stars and stripes a-sizzlin’

By a single vote, the U.S. Senate yesterday rejected a proposed Constitutional amendment to ban flag-burning. The 66-to-34 tally fell short of the two-thirds majority required for approval. Dr. Larry Burriss, journalism professor and First Amendment expert, says the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 1989 that flag-burning was a form of “expressive activity” protected by the First Amendment. He notes that many people who consider themselves patriotic wear the flag as an emblem to express their sentiments. “Well, people who burn the flag are trying to express a sentiment, too—an unpopular sentiment, to be sure, but an idea, nevertheless,” Burriss says. “And the danger we get into is when we try to decide which sentiments or ideas are appropriate and which are not.”

Contact Burriss at 615-898-2983.
lburriss@mtsu.edu

I demand a recount!

Should the popular vote determine the winner of presidential elections instead of the Electoral College? A movement called the National Popular Vote is pushing state-by-state to make that a reality. Dr. John Vile, political science chair and Constitutional scholar, says, “For a long time, I thought that an election like that of 2000, which gave the vote to the individual who did not win the popular vote, would doom the Electoral College. But I found the reaction to the election (albeit, not to the Supreme Court decision in Bush v. Gore) to be relatively mild. I think the idea of pledging to support the popular vote winner is ingenious, but I wonder how many states will really want to commit themselves to suport a candidate that they themselves did not favor?”

Contact Vile at 615-898-2596.
jvile@mtsu.edu

TR EXTRA

FROM CAMP TO COLLEGE--Kayley Kravitz is a veteran of all three years of Southern Girls Rock & Roll Camp. She studied guitar, bass and piano. In the fall, the 18-year-old graduate of The Webb School in Bell Buckle will attend Boston’s Emerson College, where she will major in journalism with an eye to becoming a music journalist. Simultaneously, Kayley will minor in music at the prestigious Berklee College of Music. She encourages parents to enroll their daughters (ages 10-18) in this year’s camp, which is slated for July 31-Aug. 5. “Not only will they get to learn the ins and outs of the music business—they will gain a self-confidence that will benefit them for the rest of their lives,” Kayley says. Deadline for open registration is FRIDAY. Contact Kelley Anderson, Anna Fitzgerald or Courtney Sharpe at sgrrc05@gmail.com or call 615-294-3216.

A SLICE OF LIFE—FRIDAY, noon--The Tennessee Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Summer Bridge Program at MTSU is coming to a close for 27 college freshmen. At noon FRIDAY, there will be an awards program in the Tennessee Room of the James Union Building. The guest speaker will be Rev. Vincent Windrow, vice president, Zycron Computer Services, Inc. For the two-and-a-half weeks, the students have spent 12 hours a day in math, chemistry, physics, computer science, aerospace and writing classes under the direction of Dr. Barbara Knox in order to sample a taste of college life. Media welcomed at the awards ceremony. Call Knox at 615-898-5311 or bknox@mtsu.edu.

TEACHING ANDREW JACKSON--MTSU and The Hermitage are collaborating in a “Landmarks of American History Teacher Workshop” funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities. “The Hermitage, Andrew Jackson, and “America 1801-1861” will be offered through June 30 and July 10-14 at The Hermitage. These workshops will enable K-12 educators to intensify their study and increase their knowledge of important historical topics through direct on-site experiences. Topics to be explored include “Growing Democracy,” “Cotton Economy and Slavery,” “Indians and Westward Expansion,” “Reform and Religion,” “Women’s Lives in a Changing America,” and “Developing a Distinct American Material Culture.” Contact Dr. Janice Leone, history, at 615-898-5580 or jmleone@mtsu.edu.

GET ACCUSTOMED TO IT--Nine sessions of orientation for new students, called CUSTOMS, will be offered in July for freshmen and transfers on a first-come, first-served basis. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Basic and Applied Science and Mass Communications and undeclared majors will have CUSTOMS July 11-12 and July 24-25. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Liberal Arts and Business and undeclared majors will be held July 6-7 and July 20-21. Transfers may complete CUSTOMS online and be cleared by their advisers to register for fall classes. For more information, call the Office of New Student and Family Programs at 615-898-5533 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/~customs.

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS!--Some 16 MTSU alumni and several faculty members have contributed to the newly published “Encyclopedia of Appalachia.” The title has more than 2,000 entries which provides ready reference to information about the people, culture and history of Appalachia. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation was contacted by scholars at East Tennessee State University’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services about collaborating on the project. CHP Director Dr. Carroll Van West says he agreed to participate because of his interest in southern architecture and because the Applachian region suffers from stereotyping. Contact the Center for Historic Preservation at 615-898-2947.

STAR-SPANGLED PARTY—INDEPENDENCE DAY--Once again, MTSU will host “Celebration Under the Stars.” The party will start at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 4, on the intramural field. There will be games and activities for the youngsters from 5-8 p.m. There will be prizes and promotional giveaways. Wal-Mart will donate the “Celebration Under the Stars” birthday cakes. At 8 p.m., the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s color guard will present the colors. The Tennessee Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic tunes, Sousa marches and inspirational classics. Capping off the evening’s entertainment will be the traditional fireworks display at 9 p.m. Contact Marlane Sewell, steering committee chair, at 615-896-6710. Tune in to WGNS-AM 1450 on July 4 starting at 3 p.m. for any changes in the day’s schedule of activities.

Tuesday, June 27, 2006

Today’s Response
Middle Tennessee State University

A slice of life

The Tennessee Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Summer Bridge Program at MTSU is coming to a close for 27 college freshmen. At noon FRIDAY, there will be an awards program in the Tennessee Room of the James Union Building. The guest speaker will be Rev. Vincent Windrow, vice president, Zycron Computer Services, Inc. For the two-and-a-half weeks, the students have spent 12 hours a day in math, chemistry, physics, computer science, aerospace and writing classes under the direction of Dr. Barbara Knox in order to sample a taste of college life. Media welcomed at the awards ceremony.

Call Knox at 615-898-5311.
bknox@mtsu.edu

From camp to college

Kayley Kravitz is a veteran of all three years of Southern Girls Rock & Roll Camp. She studied guitar, bass and piano. In the fall, the 18-year-old graduate of The Webb School in Bell Buckle will attend Boston’s Emerson College, where she will major in journalism with an eye to becoming a music journalist. Simultaneously, Kayley will minor in music at the prestigious Berklee College of Music. She encourages parents to enroll their daughters (ages 10-18) in this year’s camp, which is slated for July 31-Aug. 5. “Not only will they get to learn the ins and outs of the music business—they will gain a self-confidence that will benefit them for the rest of their lives,” Kayley says. Deadline for open registration is FRIDAY.

Contact Kelley Anderson, Anna Fitzgerald or Courtney Sharpe at sgrrc05@gmail.com or call 615-294-3216.

Presidential popularity contest?

Legislative houses in Colorado and California have approved a plan called the National Popular Vote. States, theoretically, team up and give all their electoral college votes to the nationwide popular vote Presidential election winner regardless of who won the most votes in their state. Dr. John Vile, political science chair and Constitutional scholar, says, “The elctoral college has already been the subject of two amendments (three if one counts the elimination of the three-fifths clause in the 14th Amendment). There are a greater variety of proposed amendments on this than on any other subject.”

Contact Vile at 615-898-2596.
jvile@mtsu.edu

TR EXTRA

TEACHING ANDREW JACKSON--MTSU and The Hermitage are collaborating in a “Landmarks of American History Teacher Workshop” funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities. “The Hermitage, Andrew Jackson, and “America 1801-1861” will be offered through June 30 and July 10-14 at The Hermitage. These workshops will enable K-12 educators to intensify their study and increase their knowledge of important historical topics through direct on-site experiences. Topics to be explored include “Growing Democracy,” “Cotton Economy and Slavery,” “Indians and Westward Expansion,” “Reform and Religion,” “Women’s Lives in a Changing America,” and “Developing a Distinct American Material Culture.” Contact Dr. Janice Leone, history, at 615-898-5580 or jmleone@mtsu.edu.

GET ACCUSTOMED TO IT--Nine sessions of orientation for new students, called CUSTOMS, will be offered in July for freshmen and transfers on a first-come, first-served basis. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Basic and Applied Science and Mass Communications and undeclared majors will have CUSTOMS July 11-12 and July 24-25. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Liberal Arts and Business and undeclared majors will be held July 6-7 and July 20-21. Transfers may complete CUSTOMS online and be cleared by their advisers to register for fall classes. For more information, call the Office of New Student and Family Programs at 615-898-5533 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/~customs.

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS!--Some 16 MTSU alumni and several faculty members have contributed to the newly published “Encyclopedia of Appalachia.” The title has more than 2,000 entries which provides ready reference to information about the people, culture and history of Appalachia. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation was contacted by scholars at East Tennessee State University’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services about collaborating on the project. CHP Director Dr. Carroll Van West says he agreed to participate because of his interest in southern architecture and because the Applachian region suffers from stereotyping. Contact the Center for Historic Preservation at 615-898-2947.

STAR-SPANGLED PARTY—INDEPENDENCE DAY--Once again, MTSU will host “Celebration Under the Stars.” The party will start at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 4, on the intramural field. There will be games and activities for the youngsters from 5-8 p.m. There will be prizes and promotional giveaways. Wal-Mart will donate the “Celebration Under the Stars” birthday cakes. At 8 p.m., the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s color guard will present the colors. The Tennessee Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic tunes, Sousa marches and inspirational classics. Capping off the evening’s entertainment will be the traditional fireworks display at 9 p.m. Contact Marlane Sewell, steering committee chair, at 615-896-6710. Tune in to WGNS-AM 1450 on July 4 starting at 3 p.m. for any changes in the day’s schedule of activities.

Monday, June 26, 2006

Today’s Response
Middle Tennessee State University

MTSU by the numbers

MTSU is expected to pass the 23,000 mark for student enrollment when final totals go to the Tennessee Board of Regents the week of Sept. 11. Dr. Bob Glenn, vice provost for enrollment management, says, “We will be very close to 23,200. … Percentage-wise, we are right at 3 percent over the previous year.” According to the fall enrollment forecast by Dr. David Penn, director, Business and Economic Research Center, “The number of first-time freshmen is expected to increase to 3,481, a gain of 273 from fall ’05.”

Contact Glenn at 615-898-2440
rglenn@mtsu.edu
or Dr. Sherian Huddleston, assistant vice provost, enrollment services.
shuddles@mtsu.edu

Learn from the pros

This FRIDAY is the deadline for open registration for the Southern Girls Rock & Roll Camp July 31 through Aug. 5 at MTSU. This year, girls ages 10-18 will learn from professional performers such as The Clutters, a Nashville-based band described by camp founder Kelley Anderson as providing “really upbeat garage rock;” jazz vocalist Rachel Pearl, who founded a songwriters association at MTSU; Hi-Tone Hokum, a blues-folk twosome who perform on everything from banjo and mandolin to washboard and kazoo; and Murfreesboro-based independent rock band The Velcro Stars.

Contact Anderson, Anna Fitzgerald or Courtney Sharpe at sgrrc05@gmail.com or call 615-294-3216.

Getting your kicks

The redesigned soccer ball being used at the FIFA World Cup in Germany should be more lively in play, says Allen B. Reeves, physics and astronomy. “This is because this (new) design should be more elastically dynamic between players and the use of the bodies to boot and pass the ball about, providing for a much more athletically challenging and entertaining game for the fans,” Reeves says. The new design has fewer panels and fewer ridges, and it is rounder than prior balls. “I am a very loyal fan of soccer since I had two sons who actively played this game while we lived in Maryland. I believe that this new design will prove a nice improvement to the game at all levels.”

Contact Reeves at 615-494-8894.
areeves@mtsu.edu


TR EXTRA

SAVE THOSE TICKETS!—Due to illness, “Fresh Air” radio show host Terry Gross was notable to fulfill her previously scheduled commitments at MTSU. Her appearance has been rescheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 19. Marc J. Barr, electronic media communication, says new tickets will not be printed. Therefore, people with the original April 17 tickets are encouraged to keep them for the September event. For more information, contact Barr at 615-898-5118 or at mjbarr@mtsu.edu.

TEACHING ANDREW JACKSON--MTSU and The Hermitage are collaborating in a “Landmarks of American History Teacher Workshop” funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities. “The Hermitage, Andrew Jackson, and “America 1801-1861” will be offered through June 30 and July 10-14 at The Hermitage. These workshops will enable K-12 educators to intensify their study and increase their knowledge of important historical topics through direct on-site experiences. Topics to be explored include “Growing Democracy,” “Cotton Economy and Slavery,” “Indians and Westward Expansion,” “Reform and Religion,” “Women’s Lives in a Changing America,” and “Developing a Distinct American Material Culture.” Contact Dr. Janice Leone, history, at 615-898-5580 or jmleone@mtsu.edu.

GET ACCUSTOMED TO IT--Nine sessions of orientation for new students, called CUSTOMS, will be offered in July for freshmen and transfers on a first-come, first-served basis. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Basic and Applied Science and Mass Communications and undeclared majors will have CUSTOMS July 11-12 and July 24-25. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Liberal Arts and Business and undeclared majors will be held July 6-7 and July 20-21. Transfers may complete CUSTOMS online and be cleared by their advisers to register for fall classes. For more information, call the Office of New Student and Family Programs at 615-898-5533 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/~customs.

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS!--Some 16 MTSU alumni and several faculty members have contributed to the newly published “Encyclopedia of Appalachia.” The title has more than 2,000 entries which provides ready reference to information about the people, culture and history of Appalachia. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation was contacted by scholars at East Tennessee State University’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services about collaborating on the project. CHP Director Dr. Carroll Van West says he agreed to participate because of his interest in southern architecture and because the Applachian region suffers from stereotyping. Contact the Center for Historic Preservation at 615-898-2947.

STAR-SPANGLED PARTY—INDEPENDENCE DAY--Once again, MTSU will host “Celebration Under the Stars.” The party will start at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 4, on the intramural field. There will be games and activities for the youngsters from 5-8 p.m. There will be prizes and promotional giveaways. Wal-Mart will donate the “Celebration Under the Stars” birthday cakes. At 8 p.m., the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s color guard will present the colors. The Tennessee Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic tunes, Sousa marches and inspirational classics. Capping off the evening’s entertainment will be the traditional fireworks display at 9 p.m. Contact Marlane Sewell, steering committee chair, at 615-896-6710. Tune in to WGNS-AM 1450 on July 4 starting at 3 p.m. for any changes in the day’s schedule of activities.

Friday, June 23, 2006

Today’s Response
Middle Tennessee State University

A crack in the crackdowns

Are the first signs of a democratic movement emerging in Syria? Some college students are braving jail and beatings to give it a try. Dr. Allen Hibbard, English, taught at Damascus University from 1992 to 1994. He says, “When Bashar al-Assad became president after the death of his father (Hafez al-Assad), many were hopeful that a greater openness and loosening of restrictions would follow. Until now, however, it seems as though the (Baath) party apparatus continues to exert firm control over most facets of life in Syria. It is too early to tell whether recent student protests signal a growing, active resistance to the Assad regime.”

Contact Hibbard at 615-494-8809.
ahibbard@mtsu.edu

Rock on!

The deadline for open registration for the fourth annual Southern Girls Rock & Roll Camp at MTSU is JUNE 30. This year’s day camp will run from July 31-August 5, providing girls ages 10-18 hands-on instruction in guitar, drums, bass, keyboard, vocals and electronic music. In addition, campers will attend workshops on songwriting, recording, music journalism, photography, screenprinting and do-it-yourself arts and crafts. An extra attraction this year will be a workshop on “music herstory” emphasizing the roots of country and jazz. The culmination of the camp will be a showcase in which more than 16 bands formed by the girls themselves put their talents on display at 8 p.m. Saturday, August 5 at Tucker Theatre.

Contact Kelley Anderson, Anna Fitzgerald or Courtney Sharpe at sgrrc05@gmail.com or call 615-294-3216.

The soaring soccer ball

If you’ve been watching the FIFA World Cup soccer matches on television, you might have noticed that the players are using a new ball that is rounder than any of its predecessors. The number of pentagonal and hexagonal panels (32) has been reduced to a free-flowing set (14) of panels, and the panels are now thermally bonded instead of glued. Allen Reeves, physics and astronomy, says, “The new soccer ball design having fewer panels (and therefore fewer ridges) and also rounder will very likely not be as good a ball when it comes to the long kick. This is actually a good thing since, unlike golf balls, the new soccer ball may not be as aerodynamic.”

Contact Reeves at 615-494-8894.
areeves@mtsu.edu


TR EXTRA

SAVE THOSE TICKETS!—Due to illness, “Fresh Air” radio show host Terry Gross was notable to fulfill her previously scheduled commitments at MTSU. Her appearance has been rescheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 19. Marc J. Barr, electronic media communication, says new tickets will not be printed. Therefore, people with the original April 17 tickets are encouraged to keep them for the September event. For more information, contact Barr at 615-898-5118 or at mjbarr@mtsu.edu.

TEACHING ANDREW JACKSON--MTSU and The Hermitage are collaborating in a “Landmarks of American History Teacher Workshop” funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities. “The Hermitage, Andrew Jackson, and “America 1801-1861” will be offered June 25-30 and July 10-14 at The Hermitage. These workshops will enable K-12 educators to intensify their study and increase their knowledge of important historical topics through direct on-site experiences. Topics to be explored include “Growing Democracy,” “Cotton Economy and Slavery,” “Indians and Westward Expansion,” “Reform and Religion,” “Women’s Lives in a Changing America,” and “Developing a Distinct American Material Culture.” Contact Dr. Janice Leone, history, at 615-898-5580 or jmleone@mtsu.edu.

A PREVIEW OF COMING ATTRACTIONS--Twenty-seven college freshmen are in the midst of the second of three weeks of the Tennessee Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Summer Bridge Program at MTSU. Under the guidance of Dr. Barbara Knox, director, and various MTSU faculty, the students are spending 12 hours each day in various classes, including math, chemistry, physics, computer science, aerospace and writing in order to get a taste of college life. They also will visit other colleges and universities in the alliance. TODAY, they will visit the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, then spend the next 24 hours visiting Dollywood and Pigeon Forge Mall. Contact Knox at 615-898-5311 or bknox@mtsu.edu.

GET ACCUSTOMED TO IT--Nine sessions of orientation for new students, called CUSTOMS, will be offered in June and July for freshmen and transfers on a first-come, first-served basis. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Basic and Applied Science and Mass Communications and undeclared majors will have CUSTOMS June 23-24, July 11-12 and July 24-25. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Liberal Arts and Business and undeclared majors will be held July 6-7 and July 20-21. Transfers may complete CUSTOMS online and be cleared by their advisers to register for fall classes. For more information, call the Office of New Student and Family Programs at 615-898-5533 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/~customs.

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS!--Some 16 MTSU alumni and several faculty members have contributed to the newly published “Encyclopedia of Appalachia.” The title has more than 2,000 entries which provides ready reference to information about the people, culture and history of Appalachia. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation was contacted by scholars at East Tennessee State University’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services about collaborating on the project. CHP Director Dr. Carroll Van West says he agreed to participate because of his interest in southern architecture and because the Applachian region suffers from stereotyping. Contact the Center for Historic Preservation at 615-898-2947.

STAR-SPANGLED PARTY—INDEPENDENCE DAY--Once again, MTSU will host “Celebration Under the Stars.” The party will start at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 4, on the intramural field. There will be games and activities for the youngsters from 5-8 p.m. There will be prizes and promotional giveaways. Wal-Mart will donate the “Celebration Under the Stars” birthday cakes. At 8 p.m., the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s color guard will present the colors. The Tennessee Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic tunes, Sousa marches and inspirational classics. Capping off the evening’s entertainment will be the traditional fireworks display at 9 p.m. Contact Marlane Sewell, steering committee chair, at 615-896-6710. Tune in to WGNS-AM 1450 on July 4 starting at 3 p.m. for any changes in the day’s schedule of activities.

Thursday, June 22, 2006

Today’s Response
Middle Tennessee State University

Dissenting for democracy

Some bold college students in Syria are stepping forward to advocate democracy in a land where martial law has been in force since 1963. Muhammad Arab was suspended by the University of Aleppo when he beat a Baath Party candidate in a 2004 student election. When he protested in Damascus, he was put in jail, beaten and threatened. Dr. Allen Hibbard, English, who taught at Damascus University from 1992 to 1994, says, when he was in Syria, “the government exercised tight control over university affairs. (The Baath Party had offices on the first floor of the College of Letters, where I taught.)”

Contact Hibbard at 615-494-8809.
ahibbard@mtsu.edu

Person-to-person or computer-to-computer?

Dr. Tom Brinthaupt, psychology, has summarized the final results of the 2005 EDUCAUSE Center for Applied Research study. The report compares MTSU students to other students in their use of educational technology. What does the future hold? Brinthaupt says, “Many educators believe that hybrid courses (i.e., courses that include the best of both face-to-face and online components) will be the dominant course delivery approach in the future. A typical hybrid course might meet face-to-face only once or twice a week rather than three times a week. When students can access lectures, readings, and other course material online, more time can be devoted to in-class exercises, discussions, and applications pertaining to the course content.”

Contact Brinthaupt at 615-898-2317.
tbrintha@mtsu.edu

Humor with a drawl

Today’s Southern stand-up comics are only the latest in a long line of rustic funny men, says Dr. Sara Dunne, English. “Much of the humor of recent Southern stand-up comedians comes from a long tradition that began as the ‘humor of the Old Southwest,’” she notes. “Tennessee’s own George Washington Harris created a 19th century character, Sut Lovingood, who is hardly distinguishable from Larry the Cable Guy in terms of crudeness, bodily humor (somewhat more politely expressed) and general cussedness. Sut, in fact, describes himself as a ‘natural-born durn fool.’”

Contact Dunne at 615-898-2688.
sdunne@mtsu.edu

TR EXTRA

SAVE THOSE TICKETS!—Due to illness, “Fresh Air” radio show host Terry Gross was notable to fulfill her previously scheduled commitments at MTSU. Her appearance has been rescheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 19. Marc J. Barr, electronic media communication, says new tickets will not be printed. Therefore, people with the original April 17 tickets are encouraged to keep them for the September event. For more information, contact Barr at 615-898-5118 or at mjbarr@mtsu.edu.

SCIENCE CAN BUILD A BRIDGE--Select students from Chattanooga’s Dalewood Middle School will visit MTSU TODAY for their annual “Building a Bridge to College” summer workshop. They will be under the guidance of alumnus and Dalewood math and science teacher Buddy Sullivan (B.S. ’70). MTSU faculty, staff and students from the campus organization Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) will provide the youngsters with a taste of college life. Workshop topics include “Connecting toYour Heritage,” “You and the Force,” “WISE Chemistry,” and “Microscopic Investigations! CSI at MTSU.” Media welcomed. Contact Randy Weiler, news and public affairs, at 615-898-2919 or jweiler@mtsu.edu.

THE WAR BETWEEN THE STATES—TODAY, 7 p.m.--“Rethinking the Civil War at 150 Years,” a panel discussion featuring Civil War experts, will take place TODAY in the State Farm Lecture Hall in the Business Aerospace Building. Two of the topics will be the opening of the new visitors center at Stones River National Battlefield last spring and the ongoing effort to create a park to commemorate the battle of Franklin. Dr. Dwight Pitcaithley, MTSU’s 2006 Visiting Distinguished Public Historian, will lead the public forum. Pitcathley was chief historian for the National Park Service from 1995-2005. During Pitcaithley’s residency, he is teaching Current Issues in Public History Practice, a course for M.A. and Ph.D. students in the public history program. Media welcomed. Contact Dr. Rebecca Conard, history, at 615-975-0593 or
rconard@mtsu.edu.

TEACHING ANDREW JACKSON--MTSU and The Hermitage are collaborating in a “Landmarks of American History Teacher Workshop” funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities. “The Hermitage, Andrew Jackson, and “America 1801-1861” will be offered June 25-30 and July 10-14 at The Hermitage. These workshops will enable K-12 educators to intensify their study and increase their knowledge of important historical topics through direct on-site experiences. Topics to be explored include “Growing Democracy,” “Cotton Economy and Slavery,” “Indians and Westward Expansion,” “Reform and Religion,” “Women’s Lives in a Changing America,” and “Developing a Distinct American Material Culture.” Contact Dr. Janice Leone, history, at 615-898-5580 or jmleone@mtsu.edu.

A PREVIEW OF COMING ATTRACTIONS--Twenty-seven college freshmen are in the midst of the second of three weeks of the Tennessee Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Summer Bridge Program at MTSU. Under the guidance of Dr. Barbara Knox, director, and various MTSU faculty, the students are spending 12 hours each day in various classes, including math, chemistry, physics, computer science, aerospace and writing in order to get a taste of college life. They also will visit other colleges and universities in the alliance. On FRIDAY, they will visit the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, then spend the next 24 hours visiting Dollywood and Pigeon Forge Mall. Contact Knox at 615-898-5311 or bknox@mtsu.edu.

GET ACCUSTOMED TO IT--Nine sessions of orientation for new students, called CUSTOMS, will be offered in June and July for freshmen and transfers on a first-come, first-served basis. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Basic and Applied Science and Mass Communications and undeclared majors will have CUSTOMS June 23-24, July 11-12 and July 24-25. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Liberal Arts and Business and undeclared majors will be held July 6-7 and July 20-21. Transfers may complete CUSTOMS online and be cleared by their advisers to register for fall classes. For more information, call the Office of New Student and Family Programs at 615-898-5533 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/~customs.

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS!--Some 16 MTSU alumni and several faculty members have contributed to the newly published “Encyclopedia of Appalachia.” The title has more than 2,000 entries which provides ready reference to information about the people, culture and history of Appalachia. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation was contacted by scholars at East Tennessee State University’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services about collaborating on the project. CHP Director Dr. Carroll Van West says he agreed to participate because of his interest in southern architecture and because the Applachian region suffers from stereotyping. Contact the Center for Historic Preservation at 615-898-2947.

STAR-SPANGLED PARTY—INDEPENDENCE DAY--Once again, MTSU will host “Celebration Under the Stars.” The party will start at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 4, on the intramural field. There will be games and activities for the youngsters from 5-8 p.m. There will be prizes and promotional giveaways. Wal-Mart will donate the “Celebration Under the Stars” birthday cakes. At 8 p.m., the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s color guard will present the colors. The Tennessee Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic tunes, Sousa marches and inspirational classics. Capping off the evening’s entertainment will be the traditional fireworks display at 9 p.m. Contact Marlane Sewell, steering committee chair, at 615-896-6710.

Wednesday, June 21, 2006

Today’s Response
Middle Tennessee State University

Enter and sign in, please.

Governor Phil Bredesen will be on campus TODAY to sign into law a bill that will provide additional operating funds for higher education ... the first time for such an increase since 1998. The signing will take place at 11 a.m. in the courtyard of the Business and Aerospace Building. Faulkinberry Drive will be blocked off to construction, as well as the Rutherford Boulevard entrance. Reporters may come either from Church Street to Rutherford and up to Greenland Drive (turning left), or they may come from the west on Clark Boulevard, then turn left on Greenland. From there, turn right on Champions Way, left on Blue Raider Drive, and right on Founders Lane. Parking will be available on both sides of Founders Lane.

Contact the Office of News and Public Affairs at 615-898-2919.

A preview of coming attractions

Twenty-seven college freshmen are in the midst of the second of three weeks of the Tennessee Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Summer Bridge Program at MTSU. Under the guidance of Dr. Barbara Knox, director, and various MTSU faculty, the students are spending 12 hours each day in various classes, including math, chemistry, physics, computer science, aerospace and writing in order to get a taste of college life. They also will visit other colleges and universities in the alliance. On FRIDAY, they will visit the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, then spend the next 24 hours visiting Dollywood and Pigeon Forge Mall.

Contact Knox at 615-898-5311.
bknox@mtsu.edu

You might be a Southerner if …

Southern humor is more popular than ever, as evidenced by the success of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour headlined by Jeff Foxworthy and Larry the Cable Guy. How does this generation of “redneck” humor compare to that of the prior generation of country clowns? Dr. Sara Dunne, English, says a recent book titled “The Enduring Legacy of Old Southwest Humor,” edited by Ed Piacentino, addresses this in some detail. “Brother Dave Gardner, Lewis Grizzard, Andy Griffith, Jerry Clower, even Cajun comedian Justin Wilson, are all part of the same blue collar tradition that relies on storytelling, animals, scatology and (sometimes) sex, with a bit of well-placed violence,” Dunne says. “It’s all part of the same literary/entertainment tradition.”

Contact Dunne at 615-898-2688.
sdunne@mtsu.edu

TR EXTRA

SAVE THOSE TICKETS!—Due to illness, “Fresh Air” radio show host Terry Gross was notable to fulfill her previously scheduled commitments at MTSU. Her appearance has been rescheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 19. Marc J. Barr, electronic media communication, says new tickets will not be printed. Therefore, people with the original April 17 tickets are encouraged to keep them for the September event. For more information, contact Barr at 615-898-5118 or at mjbarr@mtsu.edu.

SCIENCE CAN BUILD A BRIDGE--Select students from Chattanooga’s Dalewood Middle School will visit MTSU TODAY and TOMORROW for their annual “Building a Bridge to College” summer workshop. They will be under the guidance of alumnus and Dalewood math and science teacher Buddy Sullivan (B.S. ’70). MTSU faculty, staff and students from the campus organization Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) will provide the youngsters with a taste of college life. Workshop topics include “Connecting toYour Heritage,” “You and the Force,” “WISE Chemistry,” and “Microscopic Investigations! CSI at MTSU.” Media welcomed. Contact Randy Weiler, news and public affairs, at 615-898-2919 or jweiler@mtsu.edu.

THE WAR BETWEEN THE STATES—TOMORROW, 7 p.m.--“Rethinking the Civil War at 150 Years,” a panel discussion featuring Civil War experts, will take place TOMORROW in the State Farm Lecture Hall in the Business Aerospace Building. Two of the topics will be the opening of the new visitors center at Stones River National Battlefield last spring and the ongoing effort to create a park to commemorate the battle of Franklin. Dr. Dwight Pitcaithley, MTSU’s 2006 Visiting Distinguished Public Historian, will lead the public forum. Pitcathley was chief historian for the National Park Service from 1995-2005. During Pitcaithley’s residency, he is teaching Current Issues in Public History Practice, a course for M.A. and Ph.D. students in the public history program. Media welcomed. Contact Dr. Rebecca Conard, history, at 615-975-0593 or
rconard@mtsu.edu.

TEACHING ANDREW JACKSON--MTSU and The Hermitage are collaborating in a “Landmarks of American History Teacher Workshop” funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities. “The Hermitage, Andrew Jackson, and “America 1801-1861” will be offered June 25-30 and July 10-14 at The Hermitage. These workshops will enable K-12 educators to intensify their study and increase their knowledge of important historical topics through direct on-site experiences. Topics to be explored include “Growing Democracy,” “Cotton Economy and Slavery,” “Indians and Westward Expansion,” “Reform and Religion,” “Women’s Lives in a Changing America,” and “Developing a Distinct American Material Culture.” Contact Dr. Janice Leone, history, at 615-898-5580 or jmleone@mtsu.edu.

GET ACCUSTOMED TO IT--Nine sessions of orientation for new students, called CUSTOMS, will be offered in June and July for freshmen and transfers on a first-come, first-served basis. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Basic and Applied Science and Mass Communications and undeclared majors will have CUSTOMS June 23-24, July 11-12 and July 24-25. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Liberal Arts and Business and undeclared majors will be held July 6-7 and July 20-21. Transfers may complete CUSTOMS online and be cleared by their advisers to register for fall classes. For more information, call the Office of New Student and Family Programs at 615-898-5533 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/~customs.

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS!--Some 16 MTSU alumni and several faculty members have contributed to the newly published “Encyclopedia of Appalachia.” The title has more than 2,000 entries which provides ready reference to information about the people, culture and history of Appalachia. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation was contacted by scholars at East Tennessee State University’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services about collaborating on the project. CHP Director Dr. Carroll Van West says he agreed to participate because of his interest in southern architecture and because the Applachian region suffers from stereotyping. Contact the Center for Historic Preservation at 615-898-2947.

STAR-SPANGLED PARTY—INDEPENDENCE DAY--Once again, MTSU will host “Celebration Under the Stars.” The party will start at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 4, on the intramural field. There will be games and activities for the youngsters from 5-8 p.m. There will be prizes and promotional giveaways. Wal-Mart will donate the “Celebration Under the Stars” birthday cakes. At 8 p.m., the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s color guard will present the colors. The Tennessee Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic tunes, Sousa marches and inspirational classics. Capping off the evening’s entertainment will be the traditional fireworks display at 9 p.m. Contact Marlane Sewell, steering committee chair, at 615-896-6710.

Tuesday, June 20, 2006

Today’s Response
Middle Tennessee State University

Money for college and your headline for free

Governor Phil Bredesen will be on campus TOMORROW to sign into law a bill that will provide additional operating funds for higher education ... the first time for such an increase since 1998. The signing will take place at 11 a.m. in the courtyard of the Business and Aerospace Building. Faulkinberry Drive will be blocked off to construction, as well as the Rutherford Boulevard entrance. Reporters may come either from Church Street to Rutherford and up to Greenland Drive (turning left), or they may come from the west on Clark Boulevard, then turn left on Greenland. From there, turn right on Champions Way, left on Blue Raider Drive, and right on Founders Lane. Parking will be available on both sides of Founders Lane.

Contact the Office of News and Public Affairs at 615-898-2919.

Civility is the GO-O-O-O-O-O-O-AL!

Why are most American sports events not plagued by the sort of hooliganism that infects soccer games abroad? Dr. Mark Anshel, health and human performance, says, “U.S. fans simply do not have the anger and hostility toward other countries, races and ethnicities as some European countries, perhaps because Americans reflect so many different subcultures, people who work together and whose sports teams are represented by so many diverse personal characteristics. We also cherish the spirit of competition, the value of skilled performance and a mentality of ‘may the best team win.’ Consequently, less vigilance about unruly fan behavior is needed.”

Contact Anshel at 615-898-2812.
manshel@mtsu.edu

Science can build a bridge

Select students from Chattanooga’s Dalewood Middle School will visit MTSU TOMORROW and THURSDAY for their annual “Building a Bridge to College” summer workshop. They will be under the guidance of alumnus and Dalewood math and science teacher Buddy Sullivan (B.S. ’70). MTSU faculty, staff and students from the campus organization Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) will provide the youngsters with a taste of college life. Workshop topics include “Connecting toYour Heritage,” “You and the Force,” “WISE Chemistry,” and “Microscopic Investigations! CSI at MTSU.” Media welcomed.

Contact Randy Weiler, news and public affairs, at 615-898-2919.
jweiler@mtsu.edu


TR EXTRA

SAVE THOSE TICKETS!—Due to illness, “Fresh Air” radio show host Terry Gross was notable to fulfill her previously scheduled commitments at MTSU. Her appearance has been rescheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 19. Marc J. Barr, electronic media communication, says new tickets will not be printed. Therefore, people with the original April 17 tickets are encouraged to keep them for the September event. For more information, contact Barr at 615-898-5118 or at mjbarr@mtsu.edu.

THE WAR BETWEEN THE STATES—THURSDAY, 7 p.m.--“Rethinking the Civil War at 150 Years,” a panel discussion featuring Civil War experts, will take place THURSDAY in the State Farm Lecture Hall in the Business Aerospace Building. Two of the topics will be the opening of the new visitors center at Stones River National Battlefield last spring and the ongoing effort to create a park to commemorate the battle of Franklin. Dr. Dwight Pitcaithley, MTSU’s 2006 Visiting Distinguished Public Historian, will lead the public forum. Pitcathley was chief historian for the National Park Service from 1995-2005. During Pitcaithley’s residency, he is teaching Current Issues in Public History Practice, a course for M.A. and Ph.D. students in the public history program. Media welcomed. Contact Dr. Rebecca Conard, history, at 615-975-0593 or
rconard@mtsu.edu.

TEACHING ANDREW JACKSON--MTSU and The Hermitage are collaborating in a “Landmarks of American History Teacher Workshop” funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities. “The Hermitage, Andrew Jackson, and “America 1801-1861” will be offered June 25-30 and July 10-14 at The Hermitage. These workshops will enable K-12 educators to intensify their study and increase their knowledge of important historical topics through direct on-site experiences. Topics to be explored include “Growing Democracy,” “Cotton Economy and Slavery,” “Indians and Westward Expansion,” “Reform and Religion,” “Women’s Lives in a Changing America,” and “Developing a Distinct American Material Culture.” Contact Dr. Janice Leone, history, at 615-898-5580 or jmleone@mtsu.edu.

GET ACCUSTOMED TO IT--Nine sessions of orientation for new students, called CUSTOMS, will be offered in June and July for freshmen and transfers on a first-come, first-served basis. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Basic and Applied Science and Mass Communications and undeclared majors will have CUSTOMS June 23-24, July 11-12 and July 24-25. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Liberal Arts and Business and undeclared majors will be held June 20-21, July 6-7 and July 20-21. Transfers may complete CUSTOMS online and be cleared by their advisers to register for fall classes. For more information, call the Office of New Student and Family Programs at 615-898-5533 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/~customs.

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS!--Some 16 MTSU alumni and several faculty members have contributed to the newly published “Encyclopedia of Appalachia.” The title has more than 2,000 entries which provides ready reference to information about the people, culture and history of Appalachia. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation was contacted by scholars at East Tennessee State University’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services about collaborating on the project. CHP Director Dr. Carroll Van West says he agreed to participate because of his interest in southern architecture and because the Applachian region suffers from stereotyping. Contact the Center for Historic Preservation at 615-898-2947.

STAR-SPANGLED PARTY—INDEPENDENCE DAY--Once again, MTSU will host “Celebration Under the Stars.” The party will start at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 4, on the intramural field. There will be games and activities for the youngsters from 5-8 p.m. There will be prizes and promotional giveaways. Wal-Mart will donate the “Celebration Under the Stars” birthday cakes. At 8 p.m., the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s color guard will present the colors. The Tennessee Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic tunes, Sousa marches and inspirational classics. Capping off the evening’s entertainment will be the traditional fireworks display at 9 p.m. Contact Marlane Sewell, steering committee chair, at 615-896-6710.

Monday, June 19, 2006

Today’s Response
Middle Tennessee State University

… and a soccer game broke out

With the FIFA World Cup in full swing in Germany, fines and docked points are being implemented against teams whose fans get out of hand. Are these effective measures to stop soccer hooliganism? Dr. Mark Anshel, health and human performance, says, “Misbehavior at any athletic event is very dangerous to the game’s survival because a perception of poor safety will prevent many fans from attending; game income will drop severely. Therefore, team management must do everything they can to prevent the perception of poor safety and unruly fan behavior. Hooliganism also destroys the game’s integrity.”

Contact Anshel at 615-898-2812.
manshel@mtsu.edu

Teaching Andrew Jackson

MTSU and The Hermitage are collaborating in a “Landmarks of American History Teacher Workshop” funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities. “The Hermitage, Andrew Jackson, and “America 1801-1861” will be offered June 25-30 and July 10-14 at The Hermitage. These workshops will enable K-12 educators to intensify their study and increase their knowledge of important historical topics through direct on-site experiences. Topics to be explored include “Growing Democracy,” “Cotton Economy and Slavery,” “Indians and Westward Expansion,” “Reform and Religion,” “Women’s Lives in a Changing America,” and “Developing a Distinct American Material Culture.”

Contact Dr. Janice Leone, history, at 615-898-5580.
jmleone@mtsu.edu

The War Between the States

“Rethinking the Civil War at 150 Years,” a panel discussion featuring Civil War experts, will take place from 7-8:45 p.m. THURSDAY in the State Farm Lecture Hall in the Business Aerospace Building. Two of the topics will be the opening of the new visitors center at Stones River National Battlefield last spring and the ongoing effort to create a park to commemorate the battle of Franklin. Dr. Dwight Pitcaithley, MTSU’s 2006 Visiting Distinguished Public Historian, will lead the public forum. Pitcathley was chief historian for the National Park Service from 1995-2005. During Pitcaithley’s residency, he is teaching Current Issues in Public History Practice, a course for M.A. and Ph.D. students in the public history program. Media welcomed.

Contact Dr. Rebecca Conard, history, at 615-975-0593.
rconard@mtsu.edu

TR EXTRA

SAVE THOSE TICKETS!—Due to illness, “Fresh Air” radio show host Terry Gross was notable to fulfill her previously scheduled commitments at MTSU. Her appearance has been rescheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 19. Marc J. Barr, electronic media communication, says new tickets will not be printed. Therefore, people with the original April 17 tickets are encouraged to keep them for the September event. For more information, contact Barr at 615-898-5118 or at mjbarr@mtsu.edu.

GET ACCUSTOMED TO IT--Nine sessions of orientation for new students, called CUSTOMS, will be offered in June and July for freshmen and transfers on a first-come, first-served basis. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Basic and Applied Science and Mass Communications and undeclared majors will have CUSTOMS June 23-24, July 11-12 and July 24-25. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Liberal Arts and Business and undeclared majors will be held June 20-21, July 6-7 and July 20-21. Transfers may complete CUSTOMS online and be cleared by their advisers to register for fall classes. For more information, call the Office of New Student and Family Programs at 615-898-5533 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/~customs.

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS!--Some 16 MTSU alumni and several faculty members have contributed to the newly published “Encyclopedia of Appalachia.” The title has more than 2,000 entries which provides ready reference to information about the people, culture and history of Appalachia. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation was contacted by scholars at East Tennessee State University’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services about collaborating on the project. CHP Director Dr. Carroll Van West says he agreed to participate because of his interest in southern architecture and because the Applachian region suffers from stereotyping. Contact the Center for Historic Preservation at 615-898-2947.

STAR-SPANGLED PARTY—INDEPENDENCE DAY--Once again, MTSU will host “Celebration Under the Stars.” The party will start at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 4, on the intramural field. There will be games and activities for the youngsters from 5-8 p.m. There will be prizes and promotional giveaways. Wal-Mart will donate the “Celebration Under the Stars” birthday cakes. At 8 p.m., the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s color guard will present the colors. The Tennessee Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic tunes, Sousa marches and inspirational classics. Capping off the evening’s entertainment will be the traditional fireworks display at 9 p.m. Contact Marlane Sewell, steering committee chair, at 615-896-6710.

Friday, June 16, 2006

Today’s Response
Middle Tennessee State University

There’s no bronze medal for third place in TV.

How can MSNBC lift itself above Fox and CNN in the cable television news ratings sweepstakes? Dr. Bob Pondillo, electronic media communication, says veering to the right wouldn’t work because Fox has that territory covered. And, since CNN has captured the middle, that wouldn’t work either. “Nobody’s doing progressive, liberal news,” Pondillo says. “What an opportunity! … But that would mean MSNBC must check the conventions of news—much like Fox has done—and go not for ‘truth’ (whatever that is), but for targeting an underserved audience segment: American liberals. If they put wild, foaming-at-the-mouth liberals on the air—much like Fox news does with conservatives—then I think they have a chance to score major numbers!”

Contact Pondillo at 615-904-8465.
pondillo@mtsu.edu

Remember that little “third-rate burglary?”

Thirty-four years ago tomorrow, five men broke into Democratic National Committee headquarters in Washington. But Dr. Larry Burriss, journalism, says the resulting Watergate scandal was not just about buggings and dirty tricks. Watergate, through the efforts of the Washington Post and other news agencies, revealed the necessity of a free press. Have we learned anything? “Sometimes, with all the hue and cry about the media, I wonder if we really want the press to be the watchdog it is supposed to be,” Burriss says. “More and more, I suspect, we expect reporters to be lap dogs and just take what the government gives out. Well, that’s not what the founding fathers intended, and that’s certainly not what the media are supposed to be doing.”

Contact Burriss at 615-898-2983.
lburriss@mtsu.edu

War and remembrance

A panel of top-notch Civil War experts will discuss the upcoming sesquicentennial of that watershed event in American history at MTSU from 7-8:45 p.m. Thursday, June 22. “Rethinking the Civil War at 150 Years” will be held in the State Farm Lecture Hall in the Business Aerospace Building. Dr. Dwight Pitcaithley, MTSU’s 2006 Visiting Distinguished Public Historian, will lead the public forum. Dr. Rebecca Conard, MTSU history professor, says it is “an opportunity for anyone interested in Civil War history to participate in a discussion with several well-known Tennesseans who will be involved in planning for the sesquicentennial of the Civil War.” Media welcomed.

Contact Conard at 615-898-2423.
rconard@mtsu.edu

TR EXTRA

HOPE AND HELL AT THE “HOT L”--Three MTSU undergrads, a professor and an alumnus breathe life into the seedy trappings of a condemned urban hotel when they check into “The Hot L Baltimore.” They’re lending their talents to the Murfreesboro Little Theatre’s production of the off-Broadway play at 7 p.m. TODAY AND TOMORROW and at 2 p.m. SUNDAY. Tim Johnson, a junior working toward a bachelor’s degree in business administration, plays Bill Lewis, a night clerk who harbors romantic feelings for one of the ladies of the evening who entertain their clients at the hotel. “He covers his true sentiments for the girl in a somewhat clumsy, but friendly manner,” Johnson says. For reservations, contact the MLT box office at 615-893-9825.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO LIVE LIKE A REFUGEE—TOMORROW--You’re thousands of miles away from home. You’re in a strange land where the language and the customs are unfamiliar. But returning home would mean starvation, rape, perhaps even death. That’s the situation facing international and refugee students who fled countries where war and terrorism are a way of life. Community Assistance for International and Refugee Students (CAIRS) helps these students pay for medical expenses, groceries and textbooks. CAIRS will hold a yard/garage/bake sale to raise money for these worthy young people from 8 a.m.-noon at the St. Rose of Lima school gymnasium, 1601 North Tennessee Blvd., in Murfreesboro. Contact Karen Case, CAIRS adviser, at 615-427-9411 or kcase@mtsu.edu.

SAVE THOSE TICKETS!—Due to illness, “Fresh Air” radio show host Terry Gross was notable to fulfill her previously scheduled commitments at MTSU. Her appearance has been rescheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 19. Marc J. Barr, electronic media communication, says new tickets will not be printed. Therefore, people with the original April 17 tickets are encouraged to keep them for the September event. For more information, contact Barr at 615-898-5118 or at mjbarr@mtsu.edu.

GET ACCUSTOMED TO IT--Nine sessions of orientation for new students, called CUSTOMS, will be offered in June and July for freshmen and transfers on a first-come, first-served basis. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Basic and Applied Science and Mass Communications and undeclared majors will have CUSTOMS June 23-24, July 11-12 and July 24-25. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Liberal Arts and Business and undeclared majors will be held June 20-21, July 6-7 and July 20-21. Transfers may complete CUSTOMS online and be cleared by their advisers to register for fall classes. For more information, call the Office of New Student and Family Programs at 615-898-5533 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/~customs.

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS!--Some 16 MTSU alumni and several faculty members have contributed to the newly published “Encyclopedia of Appalachia.” The title has more than 2,000 entries which provides ready reference to information about the people, culture and history of Appalachia. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation was contacted by scholars at East Tennessee State University’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services about collaborating on the project. CHP Director Dr. Carroll Van West says he agreed to participate because of his interest in southern architecture and because the Applachian region suffers from stereotyping. Contact the Center for Historic Preservation at 615-898-2947.

STAR-SPANGLED PARTY—INDEPENDENCE DAY--Once again, MTSU will host “Celebration Under the Stars.” The party will start at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 4, on the intramural field. There will be games and activities for the youngsters from 5-8 p.m. There will be prizes and promotional giveaways. Wal-Mart will donate the “Celebration Under the Stars” birthday cakes. At 8 p.m., the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s color guard will present the colors. The Tennessee Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic tunes, Sousa marches and inspirational classics. Capping off the evening’s entertainment will be the traditional fireworks display at 9 p.m. Contact Marlane Sewell, steering committee chair, at 615-896-6710.

Thursday, June 15, 2006

Today’s Response
Middle Tennessee State University

Cable TV justice?

Veteran television executive Rick Kaplan is out as head of cable channel MSNBC, and executive Phil Griffin was put in his place. But the more intriguing decision was to take legal expert Dan Abrams off the air and make him general manager. Dr. Bob Pondillo, electronic media communication, says this probably won’t make the Microsoft-NBC partnership any more successful. “I think Dan Abrams, while a very nice man and good court reporter, is kind of a lightweight when it comes to competing with CNN or Fox news personalities. I think MSNBC needs to grow—they’re perennially in third place (#1 being Fox, #2 CNN)—and I don’t think hiring a new manager is going to change that.”

Contact Pondillo at 615-904-8465.
pondillo@mtsu.edu

Unintended consequences

What will happen to government employees following the the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling against an L.A. prosecutor who claimed he was retaliated against after recommending to his superiors that a case be dismissed? Dr. Larry Burriss, journalism professor and First Amendment expert, says, “What this ruling will do is force whistleblowers to go outside of channels to report fraud, waste and abuse. In the past, the whistleblower could go to supervisor and report suspected abuses, and the result would be an internal investigation that could very well clear a person suspected of illegal activity. Now, however, the whistleblower will have to go public immediately, before any investigation takes place, thus exposing a potentially innocent person to public humiliation.”

Contact Burriss at 615-898-2983.
lburriss@mtsu.edu

North vs. South

The conflict that almost ripped the nation apart, the American Civil War, will be the focus of an upcoming public forum, “Rethinking the Civil War at 150 Years,” from 7-8:45 p.m. Thursday, June 22, at the State Farm Lecture Hall in the Business Aerospace Building. The discussion will be led by Dr. Dwight Pitcaithley, the Department of History’s 2006 Visiting Distinguished Public Historian. Dr. Rebecca Conard, MTSU history professor, says the event “gives us an opportunity to spotlight two important developments in middle Tennessee: the opening of the new visitors center at Stones River National Battlefield last spring and the current effort to establish a national battlefield park in Franklin to commemorate the battle of Franklin.”

Contact Conard at 615-898-2423.
rconard@mtsu.edu

TR EXTRA

HOPE AND HELL AT THE “HOT L”--Three MTSU undergrads, a professor and an alumnus breathe life into the seedy trappings of a condemned urban hotel when they check into “The Hot L Baltimore.” They’re lending their talents to the Murfreesboro Little Theatre’s production of the off-Broadway play at 7 p.m. TOMORROW AND SATURDAY and at 2 p.m. SUNDAY. Tim Johnson, a junior working toward a bachelor’s degree in business administration, plays Bill Lewis, a night clerk who harbors romantic feelings for one of the ladies of the evening who entertain their clients at the hotel. “He covers his true sentiments for the girl in a somewhat clumsy, but friendly manner,” Johnson says. For reservations, contact the MLT box office at 615-893-9825.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO LIVE LIKE A REFUGEE—SATURDAY--You’re thousands of miles away from home. You’re in a strange land where the language and the customs are unfamiliar. But returning home would mean starvation, rape, perhaps even death. That’s the situation facing international and refugee students who fled countries where war and terrorism are a way of life. Community Assistance for International and Refugee Students (CAIRS) helps these students pay for medical expenses, groceries and textbooks. CAIRS will hold a yard/garage/bake sale to raise money for these worthy young people from 8 a.m.-noon SATURDAY at the St. Rose of Lima school gymnasium, 1601 North Tennessee Blvd., in Murfreesboro. Contact Karen Case, CAIRS adviser, at 615-427-9411 or kcase@mtsu.edu.

SAVE THOSE TICKETS!—Due to illness, “Fresh Air” radio show host Terry Gross was notable to fulfill her previously scheduled commitments at MTSU. Her appearance has been rescheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 19. Marc J. Barr, electronic media communication, says new tickets will not be printed. Therefore, people with the original April 17 tickets are encouraged to keep them for the September event. For more information, contact Barr at 615-898-5118 or at mjbarr@mtsu.edu.

GET ACCUSTOMED TO IT--Nine sessions of orientation for new students, called CUSTOMS, will be offered in June and July for freshmen and transfers on a first-come, first-served basis. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Basic and Applied Science and Mass Communications and undeclared majors will have CUSTOMS June 23-24, July 11-12 and July 24-25. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Liberal Arts and Business and undeclared majors will be held June 20-21, July 6-7 and July 20-21. Transfers may complete CUSTOMS online and be cleared by their advisers to register for fall classes. For more information, call the Office of New Student and Family Programs at 615-898-5533 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/~customs.

THE ART OF GOVERNOR’S SCHOOL--High school students can spend a fun and productive summer at the annual Tennessee Governor’s School for the Arts THROUGH TODAY at MTSU. Youngsters will enjoy intensive study in art, dance, theater and music during the five-week residence program. Students now will receive six hours of college credit instead of three, as was the case in prior years. “We had a fantastic school in 2005, with more than 200 talented students who had a wonderful, life-changing experience at MTSU,” Dale McGilliard, professor of speech and theatre, observes. “Everything from registration into classes, to buses to dorms, to the smallest detail was excellent, thanks to all the school’s teachers who worked so hard to make things happen for these young artists of Tennessee.” Contact McGilliard at 615-898-2274 or dmcgilli@mtsu.edu.

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS!--Some 16 MTSU alumni and several faculty members have contributed to the newly published “Encyclopedia of Appalachia.” The title has more than 2,000 entries which provides ready reference to information about the people, culture and history of Appalachia. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation was contacted by scholars at East Tennessee State University’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services about collaborating on the project. CHP Director Dr. Carroll Van West says he agreed to participate because of his interest in southern architecture and because the Applachian region suffers from stereotyping. Contact the Center for Historic Preservation at 615-898-2947.

CANCER ANSWERS—TODAY--“Taking It to the Streets: Summit on the Burden of Cancer in Tennessee,” a state cancer summit, will be held at the Vanderbilt Student Life Center. MTSU is a partner in providing funding for several initiatives aimed at reaching more people with information on the deadly illness. Issues to be addressed include creating access to services for the homeless and the utilization of churches to raise awareness of the importance of cancer screenings for African Americans. The Tennessee Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalition, which is made up of 272 individuals and organizations in Tennessee, is the driving force behind the gathering. Contact ReJeana Colman at 615-435-5739 or Gail Hardin at 615-936-5885, or visit http://www.vicc.org/2006summit.

STAR-SPANGLED PARTY—INDEPENDENCE DAY--Once again, MTSU will host “Celebration Under the Stars.” The party will start at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 4, on the intramural field. There will be games and activities for the youngsters from 5-8 p.m. There will be prizes and promotional giveaways. Wal-Mart will donate the “Celebration Under the Stars” birthday cakes. At 8 p.m., the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s color guard will present the colors. The Tennessee Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic tunes, Sousa marches and inspirational classics. Capping off the evening’s entertainment will be the traditional fireworks display at 9 p.m. Contact Marlane Sewell, steering committee chair, at 615-896-6710.

Wednesday, June 14, 2006

Today’s Response
Middle Tennessee State University

Visit the world

International dancers and musicians, tasty cuisine, arts and crafts—it’s all at the International Folkfest through Sunday in Rutherford County. Spokesman Scott McCurley says, “International Folkfest is committed in bringing together folk art performers with diverse backgrounds in a peaceful and friendly atmosphere to provide entertainment and give our community an insight and understanding of the cultural heritage and traditions of other people.” Folkfest dancers will perform TODAY at 12:30 p.m. outside MTSU’s James E. Walker Library. The culmination of the event will be an all-day street festival from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 17, on the Town Square. Admission is free.

For more information, call McCurley at 615-885-2631 or visit http://www.mboro-international-folkfest.org/.

Telling truth to power

Where can a government employee go to report fraud, abuse, waste or mismanagement without fear of retaliation? The U.S. Supreme Court, in a recent 5-4 decision, ruled against an L.A. prosecutor who recommended to his superiors that a case be dismissed due to irregularities he discovered. Dr. Larry Burriss, journalism professor and First Amendment expert, says the court was wrong “in its distinction between insubordination and honest disagreement. … there is a clear difference between employee comments that are insulting and abusive and those that point out errors and disagreement.”

Contact Burriss at 615-898-2983.
lburriss@mtsu.edu

Something to kick about

The FIFA World Cup soccer tournament is in full swing in Germany, and the world is all atwitter—except for the United States. “The relative lack of interest among American sports fans does not deter sponsors such as Gillette, MasterCard and McDonald’s,” says Dr. Don Roy, management and marketing. He says they “use FIFA World Cup as a platform to reach dozens of countries throughout the world. If the U.S. team has a strong performance in the tournament and attracts the interest of sports fans in this country, it will be an added benefit for sponsors.”

Contact Roy at 615-904-8564.
droy@mtsu.edu


TR EXTRA

HOPE AND HELL AT THE “HOT L”--Three MTSU undergrads, a professor and an alumnus breathe life into the seedy trappings of a condemned urban hotel when they check into “The Hot L Baltimore.” They’re lending their talents to the Murfreesboro Little Theatre’s production of the off-Broadway play at 7 p.m. FRIDAY AND SATURDAY and at 2 p.m. SUNDAY. Tim Johnson, a junior working toward a bachelor’s degree in business administration, plays Bill Lewis, a night clerk who harbors romantic feelings for one of the ladies of the evening who entertain their clients at the hotel. “He covers his true sentiments for the girl in a somewhat clumsy, but friendly manner,” Johnson says. For reservations, contact the MLT box office at 615-893-9825.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO LIVE LIKE A REFUGEE—SATURDAY--You’re thousands of miles away from home. You’re in a strange land where the language and the customs are unfamiliar. But returning home would mean starvation, rape, perhaps even death. That’s the situation facing international and refugee students who fled countries where war and terrorism are a way of life. Community Assistance for International and Refugee Students (CAIRS) helps these students pay for medical expenses, groceries and textbooks. CAIRS will hold a yard/garage/bake sale to raise money for these worthy young people from 8 a.m.-noon SATURDAY at the St. Rose of Lima school gymnasium, 1601 North Tennessee Blvd., in Murfreesboro. Contact Karen Case, CAIRS adviser, at 615-427-9411 or kcase@mtsu.edu.

SAVE THOSE TICKETS!—Due to illness, “Fresh Air” radio show host Terry Gross was notable to fulfill her previously scheduled commitments at MTSU. Her appearance has been rescheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 19. Marc J. Barr, electronic media communication, says new tickets will not be printed. Therefore, people with the original April 17 tickets are encouraged to keep them for the September event. For more information, contact Barr at 615-898-5118 or at mjbarr@mtsu.edu.

GET ACCUSTOMED TO IT--Nine sessions of orientation for new students, called CUSTOMS, will be offered in June and July for freshmen and transfers on a first-come, first-served basis. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Basic and Applied Science and Mass Communications and undeclared majors will have CUSTOMS June 13-14, June 23-24, July 11-12 and July 24-25. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Liberal Arts and Business and undeclared majors will be held June 20-21, July 6-7 and July 20-21. Transfers may complete CUSTOMS online and be cleared by their advisers to register for fall classes. For more information, call the Office of New Student and Family Programs at 615-898-5533 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/~customs.

THE ART OF GOVERNOR’S SCHOOL--High school students can spend a fun and productive summer at the annual Tennessee Governor’s School for the Arts THROUGH TOMORROW at MTSU. Youngsters will enjoy intensive study in art, dance, theater and music during the five-week residence program. Students now will receive six hours of college credit instead of three, as was the case in prior years. “We had a fantastic school in 2005, with more than 200 talented students who had a wonderful, life-changing experience at MTSU,” Dale McGilliard, professor of speech and theatre, observes. “Everything from registration into classes, to buses to dorms, to the smallest detail was excellent, thanks to all the school’s teachers who worked so hard to make things happen for these young artists of Tennessee.” Contact McGilliard at 615-898-2274 or dmcgilli@mtsu.edu.

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS!--Some 16 MTSU alumni and several faculty members have contributed to the newly published “Encyclopedia of Appalachia.” The title has more than 2,000 entries which provides ready reference to information about the people, culture and history of Appalachia. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation was contacted by scholars at East Tennessee State University’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services about collaborating on the project. CHP Director Dr. Carroll Van West says he agreed to participate because of his interest in southern architecture and because the Applachian region suffers from stereotyping. Contact the Center for Historic Preservation at 615-898-2947.

CANCER ANSWERS—TOMORROW--“Taking It to the Streets: Summit on the Burden of Cancer in Tennessee,” a state cancer summit, will be held at the Vanderbilt Student Life Center. MTSU is a partner in providing funding for several initiatives aimed at reaching more people with information on the deadly illness. Issues to be addressed include creating access to services for the homeless and the utilization of churches to raise awareness of the importance of cancer screenings for African Americans. The Tennessee Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalition, which is made up of 272 individuals and organizations in Tennessee, is the driving force behind the gathering. Contact ReJeana Colman at 615-435-5739 or Gail Hardin at 615-936-5885, or visit http://www.vicc.org/2006summit.

STAR-SPANGLED PARTY—INDEPENDENCE DAY--Once again, MTSU will host “Celebration Under the Stars.” The party will start at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 4, on the intramural field. There will be games and activities for the youngsters from 5-8 p.m. There will be prizes and promotional giveaways. Wal-Mart will donate the “Celebration Under the Stars” birthday cakes. At 8 p.m., the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s color guard will present the colors. The Tennessee Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic tunes, Sousa marches and inspirational classics. Capping off the evening’s entertainment will be the traditional fireworks display at 9 p.m. Contact Marlane Sewell, steering committee chair, at 615-896-6710.

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

Today’s Response
Middle Tennessee State University

It’s a small world

The International Folkloric Society presents the annual International Folkfest through June 18 in Rutherford County. Spokesman Scott McCurley says, “The International Folkfest is committed to creating a culture of peace amongst the world and us. We are all aware of the strained foreign relationships our country is experiencing, and this has become a major concern for everyone. This is the opportunity and situation in which our country, the citizens, communities and organizations shine by uniting and forming a stronger bond.” Folkfest dancers will perform TODAY and WEDNESDAY at 1 p.m. outside MTSU’s James E. Walker Library. The culmination of the event will be an all-day street festival from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 17, on the Town Square. Admission is free.

For more information, call McCurley at 615-885-2631 or visit http://www.mboro-international-folkfest.org.

Blowing the whistle

In a recent 5-4 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that an L.A. prosecutor was not entitled to whistleblower protection for a memo in which he recommended to superiors that a case be dismissed due to irregularities he had discovered. He claimed he had been retailiated against because he was passed over for promotion and reassigned to an office with a long commute. Dr. Larry Burriss, journalism professor and First Amendment expert, says the court erred by making “an illogical distinction between a public official and a private citizen. … if the official had made his statements on the courthouse steps, he would have been protected.”

Contact Burriss at 615-898-2983.
lburriss@mtsu.edu

Equality in the lab

The quest to get more girls interested in math and science has more momentum than ever. Dr. Preston MacDougall, chemistry, says, “It is not unreasonable to hope that Title IX (the federal law prohibiting gender discrimination in higher education) pressure will do for chemistry what it did for soccer.” A pioneer in breaking down barriers at MTSU was Dr. June Anderson, the school’s first female professor of chemistry. In addition to her teaching, “she began a research program in X-ray powder diffraction of inorganic materials and was eventually promoted to the top of the academic ladder,” MacDougall says. Today, one-third of the tenure faculty in the Department of Chemistry are women, and there are four women and five men at the level of full professor.

Contact MacDougall at 615-898-5265.
pmacdoug@mtsu.edu

TR EXTRA

HOPE AND HELL AT THE “HOT L”--Three MTSU undergrads, a professor and an alumnus breathe life into the seedy trappings of a condemned urban hotel when they check into “The Hot L Baltimore.” They’re lending their talents to the Murfreesboro Little Theatre’s production of the off-Broadway play at 7 p.m. FRIDAY AND SATURDAY and at 2 p.m. SUNDAY. Tim Johnson, a junior working toward a bachelor’s degree in business administration, plays Bill Lewis, a night clerk who harbors romantic feelings for one of the ladies of the evening who entertain their clients at the hotel. “He covers his true sentiments for the girl in a somewhat clumsy, but friendly manner,” Johnson says. For reservations, contact the MLT box office at 615-893-9825.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO LIVE LIKE A REFUGEE—SATURDAY--You’re thousands of miles away from home. You’re in a strange land where the language and the customs are unfamiliar. But returning home would mean starvation, rape, perhaps even death. That’s the situation facing international and refugee students who fled countries where war and terrorism are a way of life. Community Assistance for International and Refugee Students (CAIRS) helps these students pay for medical expenses, groceries and textbooks. CAIRS will hold a yard/garage/bake sale to raise money for these worthy young people from 8 a.m.-noon SATURDAY at the St. Rose of Lima school gymnasium, 1601 North Tennessee Blvd., in Murfreesboro. Contact Karen Case, CAIRS adviser, at 615-427-9411 or kcase@mtsu.edu.

SAVE THOSE TICKETS!—Due to illness, “Fresh Air” radio show host Terry Gross was notable to fulfill her previously scheduled commitments at MTSU. Her appearance has been rescheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 19. Marc J. Barr, electronic media communication, says new tickets will not be printed. Therefore, people with the original April 17 tickets are encouraged to keep them for the September event. For more information, contact Barr at 615-898-5118 or at mjbarr@mtsu.edu.

GET ACCUSTOMED TO IT--Nine sessions of orientation for new students, called CUSTOMS, will be offered in June and July for freshmen and transfers on a first-come, first-served basis. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Basic and Applied Science and Mass Communications and undeclared majors will have CUSTOMS June 13-14, June 23-24, July 11-12 and July 24-25. Students pursuing majors in the colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Liberal Arts and Business and undeclared majors will be held June 20-21, July 6-7 and July 20-21. Transfers may complete CUSTOMS online and be cleared by their advisers to register for fall classes. For more information, call the Office of New Student and Family Programs at 615-898-5533 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/~customs.

THE ART OF GOVERNOR’S SCHOOL--High school students can spend a fun and productive summer at the annual Tennessee Governor’s School for the Arts THROUGH THURSDAY at MTSU. Youngsters will enjoy intensive study in art, dance, theater and music during the five-week residence program. Students now will receive six hours of college credit instead of three, as was the case in prior years. “We had a fantastic school in 2005, with more than 200 talented students who had a wonderful, life-changing experience at MTSU,” Dale McGilliard, professor of speech and theatre, observes. “Everything from registration into classes, to buses to dorms, to the smallest detail was excellent, thanks to all the school’s teachers who worked so hard to make things happen for these young artists of Tennessee.” Contact McGilliard at 615-898-2274 or dmcgilli@mtsu.edu.

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS!--Some 16 MTSU alumni and several faculty members have contributed to the newly published “Encyclopedia of Appalachia.” The title has more than 2,000 entries which provides ready reference to information about the people, culture and history of Appalachia. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation was contacted by scholars at East Tennessee State University’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services about collaborating on the project. CHP Director Dr. Carroll Van West says he agreed to participate because of his interest in southern architecture and because the Applachian region suffers from stereotyping. Contact the Center for Historic Preservation at 615-898-2947.

CANCER ANSWERS—THURSDAY--“Taking It to the Streets: Summit on the Burden of Cancer in Tennessee,” a state cancer summit, will be held at the Vanderbilt Student Life Center. MTSU is a partner in providing funding for several initiatives aimed at reaching more people with information on the deadly illness. Issues to be addressed include creating access to services for the homeless and the utilization of churches to raise awareness of the importance of cancer screenings for African Americans. The Tennessee Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalition, which is made up of 272 individuals and organizations in Tennessee, is the driving force behind the gathering. Contact ReJeana Colman at 615-435-5739 or Gail Hardin at 615-936-5885, or visit http://www.vicc.org/2006summit.

STAR-SPANGLED PARTY—INDEPENDENCE DAY--Once again, MTSU will host “Celebration Under the Stars.” The party will start at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 4, on the intramural field. There will be games and activities for the youngsters from 5-8 p.m. There will be prizes and promotional giveaways. Wal-Mart will donate the “Celebration Under the Stars” birthday cakes. At 8 p.m., the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s color guard will present the colors. The Tennessee Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic tunes, Sousa marches and inspirational classics. Capping off the evening’s entertainment will be the traditional fireworks display at 9 p.m. Contact Marlane Sewell, steering committee chair, at 615-896-6710.