Some people have said that the Coalition Against Sexual Violence's approach is too extreme, and turns people away from the topic, but Lauren Allswede, advocacy coordinator for the MSU Sexual Assault Program thinks that the attention now swarming around the subject may be a good thing for MSU, since rape is a big issue on almost all college campuses.
"I think it's good anytime there's this much dialogue surrounding sexual violence and university response," Allswede said. "This is a very important issue and should be highlighted more often, so I'm glad for the raised awareness and attention to such an important topic."
Allswede, along with Shari Murgittroyd, who is also a coordinator for the MSU Sexual Assault Program, agree that it is important for students, as well as members of the East Lansing community to utilize the services provided to victims and those looking to become more aware of the topic.
According to Murgittroyd, 1 in 4 women will be victims of sexual assault in their lifetimes, and women ages 16-24 are at the highest risk for being sexually assaulting, making it especially important to provide services for college-aged students.
The MSU Sexual Assault Program serves about 400 clients a year, with about 120 of them being MSU students according to Murgittroyd.
The program provides prevention education programming that consists of sexual violence awareness presentations, as well as multi-session workshops to the university community. The program also has a 24-hour crisis line, which provides resources for sexual assault survivors and forms of counseling.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
The Coalition Against Sexual Violence
The Coalition Against Sexual Violence is a non-registered student organization at MSU whose goal is to combat victim blaming and sexual violence on campus.
The coalition was formed in the fall 2010 semester in response to an alleged rape in Wonders Hall involving two high-profile members of the MSU Spartan basketball team.
In order to get their message across, the coalition does more than just support a rape-free campus.. they actually go out and voice their opinions through actions.
So far, the coalition has held several rallies on campus. The coalition has protested rape and the universities inadequate response to the issue of rape at the Breslin, for Midnight Madness and the first basketball game of the season, at the Izzone Camp-out at Munn Field, the administration building and the Cowles house during the December graduates reception.
The coalition has a list of nine demands, found on their website, that they believe the MSU Administration must meet in order to make MSU a safer place for students.
"We're asking for real results and real policies," coalition member, Ahlam Mohsen said. "We want the administration to know that we're serious."
The coalition was formed in the fall 2010 semester in response to an alleged rape in Wonders Hall involving two high-profile members of the MSU Spartan basketball team.
In order to get their message across, the coalition does more than just support a rape-free campus.. they actually go out and voice their opinions through actions.
So far, the coalition has held several rallies on campus. The coalition has protested rape and the universities inadequate response to the issue of rape at the Breslin, for Midnight Madness and the first basketball game of the season, at the Izzone Camp-out at Munn Field, the administration building and the Cowles house during the December graduates reception.
The coalition has a list of nine demands, found on their website, that they believe the MSU Administration must meet in order to make MSU a safer place for students.
"We're asking for real results and real policies," coalition member, Ahlam Mohsen said. "We want the administration to know that we're serious."
Monday, November 22, 2010
Alcoholic Energy Drink ban: Part II
Since the dangers of alcoholic energy drinks have been arising in several states across the U.S., the FDA is finally getting involved with the issue.
On November 17, the FDA sent the makers of these products a warning letter stating that their products, that contain a mixture of alcohol and caffeine, is "unsafe."
According to the FDA, the makers have 15 days to respond with a proper plan to correct the problem, or else the FDA may seize the products under federal law.
Now that you know the general information about the ban, lets see what some MSU students had to say about it.
Jerin Guidon, a fifth-year senior disagrees with the ban. Jerin said that whether or not pre-packaged drinks are available at stores, people will still continue to mix alcohol and energy drinks.
Carmen Koning, a sophomore at MSU said, "I think the ban of Four Lokos is a good idea." "One of my friends blacked out after drinking a Four Loko and was hospitalized earlier this year."
Sophomore Kathryn Walker believes these products should not be banned and that it should be up to the consumer to know their alcohol tolerance and drink responsibly.
If you are one of the many huge fans of Four Loko or any other alcoholic energy drinks, you better stock up! Only 12 more days until these products are taken off the shelves!
To get tips on how to drink responsibly, visit MSU's Social Norms website.
On November 17, the FDA sent the makers of these products a warning letter stating that their products, that contain a mixture of alcohol and caffeine, is "unsafe."
According to the FDA, the makers have 15 days to respond with a proper plan to correct the problem, or else the FDA may seize the products under federal law.
Now that you know the general information about the ban, lets see what some MSU students had to say about it.
Jerin Guidon, a fifth-year senior disagrees with the ban. Jerin said that whether or not pre-packaged drinks are available at stores, people will still continue to mix alcohol and energy drinks.
Carmen Koning, a sophomore at MSU said, "I think the ban of Four Lokos is a good idea." "One of my friends blacked out after drinking a Four Loko and was hospitalized earlier this year."
Sophomore Kathryn Walker believes these products should not be banned and that it should be up to the consumer to know their alcohol tolerance and drink responsibly.
If you are one of the many huge fans of Four Loko or any other alcoholic energy drinks, you better stock up! Only 12 more days until these products are taken off the shelves!
To get tips on how to drink responsibly, visit MSU's Social Norms website.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Alcoholic Energy Drink ban: Part I
As most of you already know, the Michigan Alcohol Control Commission recently decided to ban alcoholic energy drinks throughout the state.
The commission signed an administrative order on Nov. 4 that outlaws alcoholic energy drinks such as Four Loko, Joose and Smirnoff Raw Tea from being sold and distributed throughout the state of Michigan.
The commission claimed that along with the serious health-risks that come with consumption of these drinks, the products are appealing to a young audience and promotes binge-drinking.
Sharon Martin, the commission's Director of Licensing said that their goal is to get these products off the marketplace in Michigan.
According to Martin, a series of bad events resulting from the consumption of Four Loko has a lot to do with the commission's decision to ban these drinks. A 14-year-old girl was sexually abused and 9 college-aged students in Washington were hospitalized after consuming Four Loko.
No wonder why it's nicknamed "blackout in a can" and "liquid cocaine."
The commission signed an administrative order on Nov. 4 that outlaws alcoholic energy drinks such as Four Loko, Joose and Smirnoff Raw Tea from being sold and distributed throughout the state of Michigan.
The commission claimed that along with the serious health-risks that come with consumption of these drinks, the products are appealing to a young audience and promotes binge-drinking.
Sharon Martin, the commission's Director of Licensing said that their goal is to get these products off the marketplace in Michigan.
According to Martin, a series of bad events resulting from the consumption of Four Loko has a lot to do with the commission's decision to ban these drinks. A 14-year-old girl was sexually abused and 9 college-aged students in Washington were hospitalized after consuming Four Loko.
No wonder why it's nicknamed "blackout in a can" and "liquid cocaine."
Sunday, November 14, 2010
MSU/PSU Blood Challenge: Part II
As of today, there are only 4 days left to donate blood for the 17th annual MSU/PSU Blood Challenge. So you know what that means, Spartans! Check the Red Cross website to sign up for an appointment to donate blood between now and Thursday in order to help MSU win the competition for the 6th time since it has been going on for over a decade.
The winner of the challenge will be announced at the football game between Penn State and MSU on November 27th. The winning university will be the temporary home of a traveling trophy plus have bragging rights for a year over the challenger.
Not only will a donation of blood help MSU win the challenge, but it SAVES LIVES people!! So make a difference in your community and even the world... make an appointment to donate today.
Kelly Weber, donor recruitment representative for the Red Cross said, "It is extremely important for people to donate blood. Three lives are potentially saved with every donation made."
Weber also said that all donations received in the state of Michigan first serve hospitals inside the state, and then the extra supply can be sent elsewhere.
According to the State News, on November 8th MSU was ahead of PSU by about 164 units of blood. Remember to tune into the PSU/MSU game to hear about the outcome of the challenge!
To make an appointment to donate, visit RedCrossBlood.org/make-donation and enter sponsor code "MSU."
The winner of the challenge will be announced at the football game between Penn State and MSU on November 27th. The winning university will be the temporary home of a traveling trophy plus have bragging rights for a year over the challenger.
Not only will a donation of blood help MSU win the challenge, but it SAVES LIVES people!! So make a difference in your community and even the world... make an appointment to donate today.
Kelly Weber, donor recruitment representative for the Red Cross said, "It is extremely important for people to donate blood. Three lives are potentially saved with every donation made."
Weber also said that all donations received in the state of Michigan first serve hospitals inside the state, and then the extra supply can be sent elsewhere.
According to the State News, on November 8th MSU was ahead of PSU by about 164 units of blood. Remember to tune into the PSU/MSU game to hear about the outcome of the challenge!
To make an appointment to donate, visit RedCrossBlood.org/make-donation and enter sponsor code "MSU."
Saturday, November 13, 2010
MSU/PSU Blood Challenge
The 17th Annual American Red Cross MSU/PSU Blood Challenge is taking place on both campuses right NOW! This years challenge between the two competing schools has already been underway since Nov. 1st, and goes through Nov. 18th at various locations on both campuses.
On Friday, Nov. 12th, I volunteered at the blood drive in the WKAR studio in the Comm Arts building here at MSU. This drive, which is one of many being held for the challenge, was sponsored by the MSU chapter of PRSSA. Donations could be made from 11 a.m. until 4:45 p.m. and the goal was 45 donors.. but with many walk-ins, this goal was definitely exceeded! Good job Spartans!
Many students and staff members came in to donate blood and show their support for MSU on Friday. MSU senior, Danielle VanDerwarp who volunteered at the blood drive AND donated, explained why it is so important for people to donate to the Red Cross.
"It is important to help the community and help people," Danielle said.
To donate blood in this challenge, visit redcrossblood.org/make-donation and enter the sponsor code "MSU." Or, simply stay posted on upcoming blood drives in your area by visiting the Red Cross website.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
November 9, 2010: 16 & Pregnant
The show 16 and Pregnant is a reality series aired on MTV that shares the real-life stories of pregnant teens. It showcases their emotions in dealing with their pregnancies, relationships with loved-ones, education, jobs and other issues that arise throughout their evolution into early adulthood. Just like every teen mother, these select girls are forced to sacrifice their high school experiences and teenage years to care for their newborn child.
This week on 16 and Pregnant is 16-year-old Emily from Hayden, Alabama.
Since her mother was extremely angry about Emily's pregnancy, she moves in with her Father, who is also very disappointed. After excessive absences in high school, Emily's father withdraws her from high school and she begins home school.
Further into the episode Emily starts to have contractions and is brought to the hospital. After being in labor for 9 hours, Baby Liam, 8 lbs 7 ounces, is born on February 17, 2010.
Soon after Liam's birth, Emily is starting to realize that a baby is a lot of work and sacrifices have to be made in order to give her child the best life possible. Frustrated by the absence of father, Daniel, Emily doubts the couples plan for marriage in June 2010.
The show that is produced by Morgan J. Freeman airs on Tuesday nights at 10 p.m. Along with the 16 and Pregnant series, MTV launched a spin-off series called Teen Mom that follows the lives of the girls who were originally in 16 and Pregnant more in-depth in their first few years of motherhood.
To view clips and full episodes of both series, you can visit MTV's website.
This week on 16 and Pregnant is 16-year-old Emily from Hayden, Alabama.
Since her mother was extremely angry about Emily's pregnancy, she moves in with her Father, who is also very disappointed. After excessive absences in high school, Emily's father withdraws her from high school and she begins home school.
Further into the episode Emily starts to have contractions and is brought to the hospital. After being in labor for 9 hours, Baby Liam, 8 lbs 7 ounces, is born on February 17, 2010.
Soon after Liam's birth, Emily is starting to realize that a baby is a lot of work and sacrifices have to be made in order to give her child the best life possible. Frustrated by the absence of father, Daniel, Emily doubts the couples plan for marriage in June 2010.
The show that is produced by Morgan J. Freeman airs on Tuesday nights at 10 p.m. Along with the 16 and Pregnant series, MTV launched a spin-off series called Teen Mom that follows the lives of the girls who were originally in 16 and Pregnant more in-depth in their first few years of motherhood.
To view clips and full episodes of both series, you can visit MTV's website.
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