Every weekend this summer, The News will update you on the latest in Murray. Whether you’re in town or at home for the summer, you’ll find what you need at TheNews.org. This update is for July 25. Email us with any questions, concerns or tips.
SGA invites Senate candidates to debate on campus
By Rebecca Walter, News Editor
U.S. Senate candidates Mitch McConnell and Alison Lundergan Grimes have been invited by the Student Government Association to participate in a debate on campus.
A letter was sent to each of the candidate’s campaign managers from SGA, signed by president Michael Dobbs and member Daniel Hughes.
“We are in a region that I feel can be overlooked by some but with our large area we hold a lot of votes,” Dobbs said. “It is important for students to be able to have the opportunity to witness this and learn more about issues facing our state. If this debate makes it to Murray, I can guarantee there will be more active voters on campus because they will feel like their vote has value.”
Dobbs said he is not aware of either candidate accepting the invitation or how long they have to reply to the invitation.
Both McConnell and Grimes have visited campus in the past.
Catherine Sivills, assistant vice president of University Communications, said the University offers a nice, central location for the debate.
“For residents living in western Kentucky, the University is the perfect platform to hold a debate,” Sivills said. “It is neutral and our mission supports opposing viewpoints and open, educated discussions.”
She said the debate would give students the opportunity to see first hand the process involved in a political debate and the issues facing Kentucky residents.
Dobbs said he believes hosting the debate on campus would make more students aware of politics.
“For the students in-state, they will be able to witness first hand a debate that discusses issues directly facing our state,” he said. “For the non-Kentucky residents, they will still be able to be a part of a historic event and one that can help them in their own political endeavors in their respective areas.”
Fire destroys downtown Murray buildings, more to be razed
Murray firefighters responded to a fire in downtown Murray at approximately 2 a.m. Wednesday.
The fire, which Assistant Fire Chief Matthew Tinsley said originated in Wilson Florist, has been contained by more than 30 firefighters. Wilson Florist is located on 5th Street.
The roof collapsed at Wilson Florist as well as at Profiles Salon and Spa.
The cause of the fire is still unknown and there were no injuries.
According to WKMS, City Administrator Matt Mattingly said the damaged buildings will likely be razed. Previous roof collapses in downtown Murray have forced several other businesses out of the square.
Cashier’s office closes, changes policies
The Murray State cashier’s office is officially closed and has moved all services online.
In an email to students Friday, the Bursar’s Office noted that there will no longer be walk-up service at the cashier’s window.
The decision to close the Cashier’s Office was the result of budget cuts proposed by former University President Tim Miller. The budget committee expected to save $30,607 by closing the window.
Students can pay using a pinless debit card or checking account, but will be charged extra for using a credit card.
