Volume 15 Issue 18

Page 1

Presidential search slow over winter break according to BOT Read more on A5

The official student media group at Florida Gulf Coast University since 1997

AGLE NEWS www.eaglenews.org

Volume 15, Issue 18

Wednesday, January 11, 2016

FGCU founding president criticizes graduation rate

In the know Entertainment

Five tips on how to start the semester off right so you don’t fall behind. Read on A6

Sports

Evita Letter reflects on representing Suriname in the Rio Olympics.

Opinion

Read on B1

Textbooks are a financial burden to students. Read on B6

Outreach

MADD strives to make a positive change to Florida law on drunk driving.

EN Photo / Taylor Crehan Roy McTarnaghan, FGCU’s founding president, addresses the Board of Trustees during the Tuesday, Jan. 10 meeting. McTarnaghan shared his opinion on the university’s current graduation rate, his experience talking to students about their issues with classes, and how FGCU can move forward and help solve the problem.

By Taylor Crehan News Editor @taylorjeangenie Roy McTarnaghan, the man who quite literally oversaw the creation of FGCU from the ground up, paid a visit to members of the Board of Trustees on Tuesday, Jan. 10. McTarnaghan, who served as the founding president of FGCU from 1993 to 1999, shared his thoughts on the university’s

current graduation rates in front of trustees, faculty, and members of the public. Before he dove into his criticism, however, he congratulated the school on how quickly it has grown compared to other universities. “If you look around, and compare us with the kind of other newer institutions, we have come faster and farther than almost everyone else,” McTarnaghan said.

“There’s a lot to be proud of.” He then dove right into his topic. “My comments are directed to a very small issue, and that is time to degree,” McTarnaghan said. He explained that FGCU’s graduation rates and the frequent discussion of students graduating in six years rather than two has been mentioned during BOT meetings several times, as well as at Board of

Governors meetings. McTarnaghan then explained that the main issue causing a lengthy time to degree is the lack of available classes at FGCU to certain students. “I think our advising is very good, we’ve got a lot of wonderful programs,” McTarnaghan said. “But this schedule issue, not the advising, seems to me to be a major stumbling point.” He said that according to the BOG, the reason that

FGCU has issues with time to degree was because the “student quality was too low.” “I believe they missed the point completely,” McTarnaghan said. McTarnaghan is currently supporting several students from scholarship funds that he and his family provide to. In an effort to solve the

>> Continued on A2

Read on B8

Alumni aim to revolutionize personal training By Travis Brown Assistant News Editor @teebrowns FGCU alumni Stephanie and Jennifer Castano are on a mission to revolutionize personal training. Link to Fitness, a new up and coming phone app, is set to do just that. The app aims to provide a platform for users and trainers to connect on their own time to make fitness more convenient and comfortable. During her time at FGCU, Stephanie, who graduated with a degree in business management, had been a personal trainer but said the hours were inconvenient. People tend to work a typical 9-to-5 job, meaning that, as a trainer, you need to be available before or after. Hiring a personal

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trainer can also be a very expensive service, something sister Jennifer knows well after her husband had sought one due to being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Along with Jennifer, who also graduated from FGCU, Stephanie was trying to solve both of those problems by creating an app to hopefully make fitness within reach for most. “I’ve always believed that fitness professionals are the people that can teach people healthy lifestyles,” Stephanie said. “Most people end up turning to a doctor but don’t realize that doctors only treat a disease, not prevent.” The app connects trainers and users, providing resources, workouts and more. The trainers are then compensated based on

Entertainment and Lifestyle.....A6 Sports............................................B1 Opinion..........................................B6 Outreach.......................................B8

their programs. The app gives its users a “virtual gym” for them to access workouts from their trainers anywhere and at anytime. While Stephanie deals with the business side of things, Jennifer is in charge of the design. “The app is clean and user friendly,” Stephanie said. “Lots of thought went into a natural design to help create feelings for you to take action.” Michelle Mambuca, another FGCU alumna and the public relations director of Link to Fitness, was also enthusiastic about the design. “I love how this is Photo courtesy of Link to Fitness accessible and affordable (Left to right) Stephanie and Jennifer Castano pose for a part of their marketing campaign for their upcoming fitness for college students,” app, Link to Fitness. Stephanie said, especially need to access this Mambuca said. “I was demographic. Many college students during this developmental information.” limited in my potential as a have trouble finding time stage. college student.” “That’s really who we Link to Fitness is for activities such as looking to reach college fitness, which is a crucial are targeting,” Mambuca students as their main component to your health, said, “people who really FIRST ISSUE FREE Eagle News McTarnaghan Hall 201 10030 FGCU Blvd. S Fort Myers, Fla. 33967


A2 NEWS EAGLE NEWS WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11

EDITOR: TAYLOR CREHAN NEWS@EAGLENEWS.ORG

The official student produced newspaper at Florida Gulf Coast University since 1997.

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Eagle News receives these volunteer opportunities from the FGCU Office of Service Learning every week

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Service-Learning Events & Opportunities >> The service learning fair is coming soon. Mark your calendars: Friday, Jan. 27, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. in the Cohen Center ballroom. This is your chance to meet with community agencies to learn about their needs and how you can earn service learning hours. Over 65 agency and FGCU reps can’t wait to meet you! See you there! >> Are you ready for some FDD baseball? Every Saturday, Jan. 7 – March 25, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., the Foundation for the Developmentally Disabled Baseball League needs people to come out and play baseball with the adults with disabilities, cheer them on and generally assist the teams. Located at the Osceola Elementary School, 5770 Osceola Trail, Naples. For more information, please contact Lauren Morimanno at lamorimanno0809@eagle.fgcu.edu.

>> The Taps and Tunes Festival of the Sidney & Berne Davis Center is coming Jan. 14 to Centennial Park. Help is needed with concessions and ticket-taking. Shifts 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., 2 p.m. – 7 p.m. and 7 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. Contact Cornell Bunting at 239-333-1933 or cornell@sbdac.com. >> The Cape Coral Historical Museum is holding its second annual Bluegrass Jamboree Jan. 28. Volunteers who love live music, BBQ and helping a good cause needed. Help set up, clean, park cars, work security and man booths, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Contact Breanne Hastings, Museum Coordinator – capecoralmuseum@gmail.com or call 239-772-7037 for more information.

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The world in brief

Chinese company implants 3-D printed blood vessels

Dylann Roof receives the death sentence Dylann Roof, the white supremacist who killed nine AfricanAmericans in a church over a year and a half ago, has been condemned to death by a federal jury on Tuesday, Jan. 10. The jury found Roof guilty of 33 counts for his attack at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in downtown Charleston, South Carolina. Roof, who insisted on representing himself during the sentencing phase, showed no expression as the final verdict was announced.

Scientists working for Sichuan Revotek have successfully 3-D printed blood vessels and implanted them in rhesus monkeys. This accomplishment is a breakthrough on the path to 3-D printing human organs to be used for transplants. The key to the experiment’s success is being called bio-ink, which is created from stem cells derived from fat tissues. Since stem cells have the ability to grow into any cells within the body, they won’t be rejected by the immune system once implanted.

Assistant Sports Editor Emily Kois

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Opinion Editor Luke Janke

opinion@eaglenews.org Assistant Opinion Editor

Beijing, China

Charleston, South Carolina

Sam Palmisano

assistantopinion@eaglenews.org Senior Copy Editor

Kenya

Sarajane Sullivan

copydesk@eaglenews.org Photography Editor Brad Young

photography@eaglenews.org Assistant Photography Editor Kim Smith

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Puerto Quellen, Chile

Media Editor Katie Hopkins

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assistantmedia@eaglenews.org ENTV Director Cassidy Mace

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African plant has potential to replace diesel The Croton megalocarpus tree is common throughout East and Central Africa, but it has mainly been used for firewood. The nuts of the tree have been shown to contain high concentrations of oil, and they are now being used to produce a fuel that could serve as a clean alternative to diesel. The production of croton nut oil is a low-tech and low-energy process compared with traditional fuel manufacturing. Researchers report that the crop can succeed where other biofuels have failed.

7.7 magnitude earthquake hits Chilean coast On Tuesday, Jan. 10, a magnitude 7.7 earthquake occurred about 25 miles off the southwest coast of Chile. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami threat before the earthquake, but reported that the threat had passed by 10:30 a.m. Chile has had more than a dozen quakes of magnitude 7.0 and above since 1973.

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>> McTarnaghan continued from A1 issue of time to degree at FGCU, he has talked to several of those students, Faculty Senate members as well as leaders of Student Government about their personal problems with class scheduling. “I believe that we need to back up and look at how people have solved this problem,” McTarnaghan said. He suggested implementing an advising scenario where

students can meet with their adviser in a six or seven week period before a new term starts to determine what exactly the course needs are, and then use that data to mandate the kind of courses and sequence in which they’re offered. “It’s really important to do a different kind of analysis,” McTarnaghan said. He explained that while talking to a student who receives financial support from him and his family, he found out that the student, who is a freshman

biology major, was unable to enroll in any biology classes because there weren’t any class spaces open for him. “Interviewing dozens of students, that’s not unusual,” McTarnaghan said. He pleaded for the BOT to take part in changing the school’s current graduation rates. “This has got to be fixed, please,” McTarnaghan said. “I’m willing to help.” After closing his statements, trustees shared their thoughts about the former president’s

speech. “I think he brings wisdom that certainly makes sense,” trustee Kevin Price said. Trustee Ken Smith believed that McTarnaghan’s feelings on FGCU’s time to degree were moving the conversation to the right direction. “I think Dr. McTarnaghan is gearing the conversation toward the right causes (sic),” Smith said.

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11 EAGLE NEWS NEWS A3

FGCU student to study opera in Italy

Photo courtesy of James Grecco Senior vocal performance major Bradley Berry performs at the Veteran’s Pavilion on the library lawn during the 9/11 remembrance ceremony in fall 2016. Berry has been accepted into the International Young Artists Project opera program. Berry will be spending summer 2017 in Italy studying opera under several professionals.

By Taylor Crehan News Editor @taylorjeangenie From serving as a senator in Student Government to being an active founding member of FGCU’s newest fraternity, Alpha Tau Omega, senior vocal performance major Bradley Berry is well known around campus. What he is better known for, however, is his love of opera. Berry started singing opera when he was 13, when he began receiving private voice lessons in the bel canto style, an Italian-originated form of opera. Berry continued his opera career into high school, participating in chorus. These experiences encouraged him to continue singing into college. “It was only natural,

with the immense help from my high school choral director, that I strived for a vocal degree in college,” Berry said. Berry’s dedication to the craft has brought him to Europe in the past. Two years ago, he traveled to France with the help of a study abroad grant. Participating in this program inspired him to apply to the International Young Artists Project in August 2016 – for an opportunity to study opera in Italy. “I have had such a drive to go back to Europe and share my passion for opera,” Berry said. Berry found out that he would be returning to Europe, this time in the country where opera was born hundreds of years ago, on Thursday, Dec. 15 over winter break.

Berry will be spending summer 2017 in Monte San Savino, Italy through IYAP, a program that allows students to train and perform in three vocal genres: opera, art song and musical theater. Students will also have several opportunities to travel to several historically significant locations in Italy. These opportunities include a day trip to Florence, a day trip to the cities of San Gimignano and Siena, an opportunity to attend jazz concerts in Perugia, wine tasting in Montalcino, and cooking classes in Tuscan cuisine. “I am looking forward to immersing myself in the culture of Italy,” Berry said. “The history and language has always been something that I’ve been very interested in. Many classical composers and

opera stars have had their start in Italy and I am so honored to have the opportunity to study in their footsteps.” Students participating in the program will live in hotels that are within walking distance to the school of music and performance venues during the duration of their stay in Monte San Savino. SG secretary Jalisa White and close friend of Berry is excited to see his hard work pay off. “He is an excellent musician and I believe this trip will give him opportunities to network and meet other people in a brand new country,” White said. “Not only is this a great opportunity for music, but it will allow him to experience new cultures and step outside his comfort zone.”

White believes that it’s important for students to take opportunities like this one because college is about more than being in a classroom. “It is about exploring new places, meeting new people, getting involved and making yourself a wellrounded person,” White said. White said that participating in experiences like the one that Berry will partake in opens many doors for students, allowing them to continue their education by having opportunities to go to graduate school and even begin a career. Berry also pushed himself to apply to study abroad by listening to the regrets of those around him who have since graduated from college. “Opportunities like

these are once in a lifetime,” Berry said. “I can’t count how many times I’ve heard someone say, ‘back in college I wish I would have studied abroad,’” Berry said. “It is truly one of the most eye-opening experiences you’ll ever have and I would strongly encourage anyone to take the opportunity when it comes their way.” Berry is hoping to bring back new vocal techniques to the Bower School of Music to share with his peers. “It is always amazing to learn how different individuals approach the training of the voice,” Berry said. “I think by me having this opportunity I will be able to not only (help) myself but also my colleagues here at FGCU.”


A4 NEWS EAGLE NEWS WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11

EDITOR: TAYLOR CREHAN NEWS@EAGLENEWS.ORG

Police Beat Eagle News writes this beat every week from the official UPD weekly summary Locked and Loaded UPD was called out to South Village on Dec. 31 at 10:31 p.m. due to a social media post showing a student had a gun in their room. When UPD confronted the student, she stated that it was, in fact, a real loaded firearm, and it belonged to her friend that came over earlier in the evening. The owner is a correction officer with the Florida Department of Corrections, so the student didn’t know he wasn’t allowed to have the gun on campus. The student was then briefed on the campus firearm policy. To Party or Not to Party On Sunday, Jan. 1, UPD was called out to West Lake Village at 11:30 p.m.

because a couple got into a heated argument. The boyfriend called UPD to report that his girlfriend and him got into an argument that resulted in his girlfriend punching holes in the walls and telling him to kill himself. The fight started because she wanted to go celebrate New Year’s, and he was tired from work. The girlfriend was picked up by her sister and was advised that she was no longer allowed to stay in the dorm. Housing will be handling the damage. Break In An FGCU faculty member contacted UPD on Monday, Jan. 2 at 3 p.m. because she saw that someone “checked in” on Facebook at the library while it was closed. UPD

confronted the subjects and asked them to leave as the library was closed. The two subjects told UPD that they saw others in the building. The officer saw that it was an adjunct staff that got in using their I.D. card. Hit and Run A student notified UPD on Monday, Jan. 2 at 4:48 p.m. to complain that someone hit her parked Jeep. The offending vehicle is unknown. Welfare Check A concerned mother called UPD on Monday, Jan. 2 at 8:25 p.m. to request a welfare check on her daughter. UPD got in contact with the student, and she informed UPD that she had already spoken to her mother.

Drugs and Trespasser

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UPD was requested to North Lake Village on Tuesday, Jan. 3 at 10:01 a.m. because an RA found a small amount of green leafy substance and a grinder in a student’s bedroom. The student was not present at the time of the search, but her boyfriend was. He had a set of keys to his and his girlfriend’s dorm. The keys were turned over to housing, and he was asked to remove his items from her dorm. Vaping is a No No At 11:40 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 4 in North Lake Village, an RA called UPD about 10 individuals smoking vape pens in the parking lot in front of the

building. UPD arrived, asking the individuals to leave, and they refused. The subjects claimed to be guests of a housing resident. The guests were advised to leave, and the student returned to his dorm. More drugs A UPD officer was out on patrol on Thursday, Jan. 5, and at 4:29 a.m., he observed five individuals huddled on the North Lake Village boardwalk. When the individuals saw the patrol car, they took off running. The officer was only able to catch up to one of them. Subject admitted that he and the others were smoking marijuana and that the others were hiding in their dorm. UPD made contact with the other subjects and all admitted

to smoking though no marijuana was on them. Three of the subjects are FGCU students; one is an incoming student, and the other is an FSW student. When asked why they were smoking, one answered, “It was something to do.” All subjects will be referred to the dean of the students. Masked Men On Monday, Jan. 9 at 1:20 p.m., a student contacted UPD about a group of five individuals who chased him and his friend from the Veteran’s Pavilion. UPD confronted the fraternity group, and they said they were practicing a skit. UPD told them not to wear their masks.

Board of Trustees move to establish honors college By Travis Brown Assistant News Editor @teebrowns The Board of Trustees moved to fund and establish an honors college at the BOT meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 10. FGCU is home to an honors program since 1996 that currently includes a body of 750 students with the average honors class size being around 15 people. The College of Arts and

Sciences is home to the most honor students with 52.6 percent of the total program. Biology remains the most popular program among that demographic. In 2017, the program will expand the college, funded by carry forward funds from the previous fiscal year, money in the budget that was unexpended. The current proposed budget would allow for over $1.75 million to be spent on

the college over roughly three years. It has been discussed in the past that the universities low draw of honor students is due in part to the lack of an honors college. The implementation of one is hope to increase the draw from both honors applicants and National Merit Scholarship winners. As of now in order to apply for the college as a first-year college student,

applicants need a minimum of a 3.5 GPA in high school and a 1220 SAT and 25 ACT. Automatic first consideration is given with a 3.9 GPA in high school and a 1320 SAT and 28 ACT. Current FGCU students are eligible for application to the honors college with a 3.5 FGCU cumulative GPA and the completion of at least 12 Credit Hours and up to 60.

EN Photo / Rachel Iacovone FGCU’s honors college, currently being housed in Reed Hall, now has $1.75 million to expand courtesy of the Board of Trustees. The BOT approved the allocation of carry forward funds that will benefit the program.


WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11 EAGLE NEWS NEWS A5

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Search for new FGCU president continues Presidential search slow over winter break, said committee chair Ken Smith By Alexandra Figares Contributing Writer @fgcueaglenews The FGCU Board Of Trustees held a meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 10. Among the various topics discussed, a pressing topic revolved around the university’s ongoing search for a new president. The BOT revealed details in regards to seeking out qualified candidates for FGCU President Wilson Bradshaw’s replacement. Daniel Heimmermann and Ken Harmon are prospective candidates, however, Board of Governors Chancellor Marshall Criser ruled that it was imperative to seek out one or more qualified candidates for the position, in accordance with the Board of Governors Regulations. In consequence to the aforementioned c i rc u m s t a n ce s , applications for qualified candidates are open from Jan. 30 to 31. The President Search Advisory Committee will meet

at 8:30 a.m. on Feb. 6 to discuss updates and details regarding additional candidates. During the meeting, PSAC Chair Ken Smith said that there are more than a dozen candidates waiting to apply. “Most likely those new candidates will not apply until the 30th to 31st of Jan,” said Smith. The BOT will conduct interviews on campus on Feb. 15 and 16, depending on how long the interviews take and on Feb. 28, the BOT will approve an additional candidate satisfying the BOG’s requirements. “The Committee will meet to discuss this (and) will include previous advanced candidates Ken Harmon and Daniel Heimmermann,” Bradshaw said. “They are still both interested in the position.” Bradshaw’s last day in office is June 30 - compelling the PSAC to explore options for promising candidates. The new president will take office on July 1.

En Photo / Brad Young Presidential Search Advisory Committee chair and Board of Trustees member Ken Smith addresses trustees during a fall 2016 BOT meeting. At the Tuesday, Jan. 10 BOT meeting, Smith updated trustees on the search for Bradshaw’s replacement. He said that the search was slow during the duration of winter break.

North Lake Commons to be renamed in honor of FGCU Foundation Board of Directors member By Alexandra Figares Contributing Writer @fgcueaglenews North Lake Commons will be renamed following a unanimous vote held at the Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 10. FGCU President Wilson Bradshaw revealed the name change during the meeting. “After very little discussion but with great enthusiasm, the Finance Board voted unanimously to name, the what is now the Commons in North Lake Village to the Dick Ackert Community Center [sic],” Bradshaw said. North Lake Village will

soon be renamed the Dick Ackert Community Center, after FGCU’s Foundation Board of Directors Chairman Richard C. Ackert. In addition to serving on FGCU’s Foundation Board of Directors, Ackert has also served as FGCU’s chair of Financing Corporation and oversaw the development of the initial housing developments on campus. “Dick has just been an unwavering supporter of the university, both he and his wife Sue,” Bradshaw said. The exact date of when the name change will occur remains unknown.

Photo courtesy of James Grecco A view of Eagle’s Landing, a common area building in North Lake. North Lake Commons, a building where residents living in North Lake go to pick up packages, receive mail and inquire to resident assistants with questions, will be renamed the “Ackert Community Center” in honor of Dick Ackert, a former member of the FGCU Foundation Board of Directors.

Moonlight on the Marsh lecture series to focus on water By Caylee Weintraub Staff Writer @fgcueaglenews FGCU will host its fifth annual Moonlight on the Marsh lecture series beginning Thursday, Jan. 19. The series began in 1995 in Ohio, but was brought to southwest Florida in 2012 by William Mitsch, FGCU professor and director of the lecture series. Mitsch wrote in an email that one of the prevailing reasons for bringing the conference to Florida was “to expose the ideas of the best environmental scientists in the world to our FGCU undergraduate and graduate students.” This year, the lineup of acclaimed scientists

ensures that all those wishing to attend the lectures will be listening to some of the most innovative and inspiring ideas relating to this year’s theme of water. The five speakers will be presenting lectures encompassing everything from the issues surrounding water conservation to the importance of protecting wetlands in Florida and beyond. The first speaker, Leom Landers, is a teacher at Radboud University in the Netherlands. The geographic location of the Netherlands has caused innumerable water problems for its citizens because of its location above a continental dent, making this region

particularly susceptible to intense flooding. In his presentation, Landers will discuss how the Dutch have found a solution to flooding, as well as explain how humans can approach water problems with the most efficiency and at the same time cause the least amount of damage. The speakers following Landers have fascinating ideas about water as well. Luisa Ricuarte, of Venezuela, will discuss the preservation of South American wetlands, adjusting classic approaches to conservation in order to make them more applicable to modern day water challenges. Mitsch will be examining the Florida Everglades, analyzing both the effective and ineffective

methods that have been used in an effort to save one of Florida’s most vital aquatic resources. Gary Lamberti, another of the series’ guests, will speak on the pressing issue of the global freshwater crisis and Dr. Joan Rose on the increasing importance of the correlation between water quality and global health. Although the majority of the speakers live outside of Florida, many of their lecture subjects have special implications for this region. “The Dutch have come to the realization that it is too costly – and sometimes futile – to ‘control’ natural forces, and it is better to redesign our landscapes and protection systems that are capable of bending

but not breaking,” Mitsch said in an email regarding Landers’s presentation. Mitsch believes this kind of ideology can have transformative effects. “This (kind of thinking) has enormous implications for south Florida where we are the world’s poster child to some for the ultimate changes that will occur to our coastlines and the humans who live here with sea level rise,” Mitsch said in an email. “We need to have policies that ‘bend but do not break.’” Mitsch hopes that hosting this conference will educate those who attend on the ways water problems can be approached and eventually resolved, and also urge individuals to recognize their own environmental

responsibility. All of the lectures, except Mitsch’s, will take place in Harvey Kapnick Education and Research Center, located in the heart of the Naples Botanical Garden, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Those hoping to catch Mitsch’s lecture on Friday, Feb. 10, should go to the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, where his lecture will begin at 6:00 p.m. Moonlight on the Marsh is free for all those who wish to attend, however seating can be limited and early registration is recommended.


ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

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The new semester groove A guide to getting back into the swing of things after break

By Georgette French Outreach Editor @GeorgetteFrenc Traveling, spending time with family and time away from classes and obligations are what a lot of students looked forward to as the month of December approached. But, with the holiday season now a distant memory, it's time to jump back into the spring semester. For some, picking up with academics after a long break can be tough,

especially when all you can think about is the amount of days left until spring break. However, acing your spring semester doesn't have to be a chore. Here are some top ways to getting your school grove back. Actually look at the syllabus. One of the top ways to start a good semester is to be prepared and really read the syllabus. That packet of facts about your class will give you everything you need to know about what's expected of you

(i.e. how many times you can miss without tanking your grade) and what the semester will look like as far as workload. Giving yourself a quick run through of important syllabus categories like attendance and grading can help put you in the working mindset. Plan ahead. Students are given the exact dates when things are due on Canvas, so it's a good idea to jot important dates down in planners, in your phone or anywhere else you know you'll look daily.

Finding key nutrients your body is missing out on

Then, as the semester rolls through, cross off what you've completed. This is a quick and easy way to stay ahead without doing too much work. Make use of your resources. The Writing Center and the Center for Academic Achievement are two spots students should definitely visit if they feel like they're having a hard time breaking out of the holiday funk. Both are great for assistance with assignments, planning and coaching for students who need it.

By Tucker Pany Staff Writer @T_Pany7

Feeling a little depressed or lethargic lately? The organs in the human body have a key way of telling the brain that we may not be all peonies and sunshine inside. While WebMD offers a plethora of explanations for your recent lag, it can often lead you to overthink your symptoms. Before panicking, make sure you are fulfilling these key nutrients in your daily diet.

Post Malone released his debut album “Stoney” on Dec. 9. This is his first project since the release of his mixtape, “August 26th.” “Stoney” boasts some famous features, including Justin Bieber, Quavo of rap group “Migos,” Kehlani and 2 Chainz. Over the course of this record, Post Malone hops between different genres including trap, folk, acoustic rock and rap. Because he blurs the lines between genres so well, there is a song for every fan and every hater. The album starts off with “Broken Whiskey Glass.” The song is an ambient and distorted track that eases the listener into the album with no holds barred. The album transitions into “Big Lie” which has a super-catchy chorus as he exposes his competition of the rap game. Arguably the biggest song of the album, “Déjà vu,” features global superstar Bieber. The track is laid over a “Hotline Bling-esque” beat and was an inevitable collaboration, considering Post opened for Bieber on his “Purpose” tour. The tour proved vital in success of the next chapter of Post Malone’s career due to his budding relationship with Bieber. After spending time with the Bieber team, it appears Post Malone’s songwriting capabilities have developed. Examples of this are easily noticed in his expertly written choruses. Post Malone has a wide range of music he can produce, but the audio production and engineering has become much smoother on this record. On the album, tracks “No Option” and “Cold” are where Post delves deeper into his lifestyle without getting too personal. These are both very catchy and easy to listen to. His most famous song,

Many individuals associate this vitamin with sun exposure, but it is also found in foods like milk and salmon. The downside is that not everyone has the time to bask in the glorious rays, or the ability to drink 20-60 cups of milk a day to get the recommended dose. In recent studies, scientists have found that dangerously low levels of Vitamin D are directly linked with plummeting serotonin levels; low serotonin levels are a breeding ground for depression. Continued consumption of this vitamin has a multitude of benefits, including immune support, sense of well being, promoting healthy bones as well as preventing diabetes, multiple sclerosis and many forms of cancer.

Calcium We all know the correlation between calcium and milk. What you may not know is the kind of havoc and abuse that a calcium deficiency can cause in your body. When your body’s cells do not get enough calcium, they begin to take the necessary amount from your bones to continue to function properly. Even as we grow older, our calcium absorption continues to decrease, resulting in bone disorders, including osteoporosis. One way to increase your absorption rate is to take Calcium in tandem with Vitamin D.

Iron Tired all the time? All of the fitness ladies out there, this goes for you especially; you could be missing out on this key mineral. Iron is one of the main components in blood; without it, bodies cannot produce enough healthy oxygen-rich blood cells. Without enough oxygen in the body, it can quickly become fatigued. Non-fitness ladies, don’t think you have an excuse – low levels of iron can impair brain function, immune system function and healthy hair growth. Unlike Vitamin D, adequate Iron levels can be found in red meats and dark green vegetables like spinach, mushrooms and olives.

Vitamin B12 It’s no secret that this particular vitamin smells awful and tastes even worse. Nonetheless, if you read about its millions of benefits, it would be a no brainer. Not only does it naturally increase your energy levels, it also helps with memory loss, boosting mood, preventing multiple sclerosis and treating gum disease.

the semester is important so is finding a balance between work and play. If you've just spent 12 hours studying biochemistry, take a break and hit up Rusty’s Bar and Grill or Blu Sushi for some fun with friends. Jumpstarting the spring semester is important, but burying yourself in the books can often burn you out. So, be sure to take some time and ease back into the semester at your own pace.

Post Malone’s ‘Stoney’ shows wide variety of genre ingenuity

By Alex Newman Staff Writer @xandrennewman

Vitamin D

Buddy up. Pairing with friends and classmates to form study groups is a great way to stay on track and hold each other accountable for getting things done. Meeting once a week to do homework or go over notes can help anyone stay ahead, but be sure to pair with someone studious like your friend who somehow managed to work a full-time job, take part in a sorority, have a social life and get an A in anatomy last semester. Find time to relax. While getting ahead in

“White Iverson,” has been embedded on listeners’ playlists for several years, even though the music video dropped in July of 2015. After a hit like “White Iverson,” Post totally stretches the dynamic by putting one of his deepest tracks right after. The deepest song on the album, titled “I Fall Apart,” is rather selfexplanatory. The downtempo doesn’t last long throughout the rest of the album, with the song “Patient” picking back up where Post Malone left off. Following that, he reintroduces an acoustic guitar melody in “Go Flex.” Kehlani has her feature on the track “Feel,” which could loosely be considered a love song. “Too Young” and the brand new “Congratulations,” featuring Quavo, are the infamous duo on the album. Quavo is by far the most talented and versatile of the three MCs that make up the rap collective “Migos.” It’s hard to consider these tracks as “bangers,” but they may end up as the most popular songs on the 18-track album. The ever-so-catchy “Up There” is light, easy to sing along to and mellow. This is followed by a track that honestly seems to be a filler track, despite the notion that could mean a lot just by the title – “Yours Truly, Austin Post.” The 15th track, and

my personal favorite, is “Leave.” The song was written in the blend of genres of indie and folk. “Leave” is about Post Malone starting his new life without his former loved one and the pursuit of life in California. “Hit This Hard” is a song that features a circular melody, serving as the background to Post Malone’s slurred vocals. He exercises his ability to utilize different flows while not straying too far from his distinguished sound. The hit “Money Made Me Do It” features the amicable 2 Chainz. This gem was originally released on his last project, “August 26th,” but has since been re-mastered for this full-length project. Finally, “Feeling Whitney” concludes the record. Once again, distancing himself from competition, Post Malone wrote this acoustic song on his guitar. “Stoney” continues to show Post Malone’s range, along with his unparalleled execution of what genres he can operate in. He is a pivotal artist in our current era of hip-hop. The artist has now dropped five tracks and his projects have come way closer to folk/indie than rap. This breath of fresh air and his will to out-do his competition in all aspects has earned him a 9/10 for “Stoney.”

Photo courtesy of Melt! Booking Post Malone’s sound fluxuates from deep, melodic tunes to light and catchy songs, creating a blurred line between rap, acoustic and mainstream music.


EDITOR: ALLIE TAYLOR ENTERTAINMENT@EAGLENEWS.ORG

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11 EAGLE NEWS E & L A7

‘Deadpool’ is the most pirated film of 2016 Curated this week by special guest Managing Editor, Rachel Iacovone

One, Two, Three... 1. “7/11” - Beyoncé 2. “2AM - Matoma Remix” - Astrid S

Photo courtesy of BagoGames via Flickr “Deadpool” racked up $760.3 million in box office sales, $130 million of which was made during it’s opening weekend. Upon its release in February of 2016, the film earned an 8.1/10 on IMDB and an 84 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

3. “#88” - Lo-Fang 4. “1940 - AmpLive Remix” - The Submarines 5. “1979” - Smashing Pumpkins 6. “143” - Johnny Rain 7. “679 (feat. Remy Boyz)” - Fetty Wap 8. “1901” - Phoenix 9. “1234” - Feist 10. “1517” - Whitest Boy Alive

EN Illustration / Audrey Mobley

By Emily Ford Editor-in-chief @152emily According to the website TorrentFreak, the vulgar superhero hit “Deadpool” racked up the most illegal downloads of 2016. The Ryan Reynolds flick was one of the biggest hits of 2016. “Deadpool” not only received massive boxoffice success, but was also nominated for two Golden Globe Awards for Best Musical or Comedy and Best Actor. Now the superhero hit can add another accolade to its growing list: the most pirated film of 2016. “Deadpool” came in

first on TorrentFreak’s list of illegally downloaded movies, beating out other superhero ventures like “Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice” and “Captain America: Civil War.” This list also featured many other 2016 hits, such as Pixar’s animated sequel “Finding Dory” and DC Comics antihero team “Suicide Squad.” The list also featured “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” which is the highest-grossing movie in North America of all time. The movie was released in 2015. However, the correlation between commercial hit and

pirated hot-ticket item is not the only one at play. “Deadpool,” “Finding Dory” and “Captain America: Civil War” landed on both of those lists in the top 10. But the family fare hits such as Illumination Entertainment’s “The Secret Life of Pets” and Disney’s live-action remake of “The Jungle Book” were absent from the most torrented list, despite ranking fourth and fifth at the 2016 box office, respectively. Despite it being completely illegal, earning the top spot with torrentors proves yet again that “Deadpool” resonated with audiences.

‘La La Land’ resurrects the Hollywood musical By Julia Browning Assistant E&L Editor @juliabrowningxo

Photo courtesy of Dale Robinette Ryan Gosling (right), who plays Sebastian in “La La Land,” learned tap dancing and piano specifically for the role. Emma Stone (left), who plays Mia, and Gosling both won Golden Globes for best actor and best actress in a comedy or musical.

“La La Land,” the critically acclaimed musical starring Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling premiered on Christmas to much-deserved raves, earning an 8.9 out of 10 on IMDB and a 92 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. The movie proved to be the Hollywood musical America didn’t know it needed, with a catchy soundtrack featuring John Legend, and acting by Stone and Gosling that proves they are masters of their craft. Even the most cynical moviegoer has something to gain from seeing this movie, as it doesn’t sacrifice sharp, witty dialect to make room for the singing. Rather, both intermingle together to create an experience that is both whimsical and relatable.

The story surrounds the life of Mia (Stone), an aspiring actress who never seems to run out of enthusiasm or bright sundresses, and Sebastian (Gosling), a jazz musician whose dedication to the classics and aversion to authority keep him hopping from gig to gig. Though their original introduction is far from love at first sight — they meet honking at one another in traffic — they eventually bond over their commitment to their wild dreams, pursuits that border on foolishness. The characters and storyline are so skillfully developed that when the characters are quite literally floating on air, dancing amongst the stars, the audience members are right there with them. It’s no wonder the film received a hearty seven Golden Globes at the

ceremony on Jan. 8. The musical dominated the service, winning each category it was nominated in, including best picture comedy or musical, lead actor awards for Gosling and Stone, as well as awards for screenplay, song, score and director. This record-breaking award assimilation could be viewers’ best chance at guessing which movies are going to win at the anticipated Oscar award ceremony, as well as sending directors in a new, more musically inclined direction. Most of all, with their wins, we’ve all been reminded once again that musicals, especially musicals detailing the love and magic of Hollywood, stay fresh in the hearts of viewers and keep us humming their soundtracks.

Photo courtesy of Dale Robinette The cast of “La La Land” during the opening number “Another Day of Sun,” which was filmed on the Judge Harry Pregerson Interchange near Los Angeles, California.


EDITOR: ALLIE TAYLOR ENTERTAINMENT@EAGLENEWS.ORG

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11 EAGLE NEWS E & L A8

Spring into a cleaner new year By Deanna Simmons Staff Writer @WondercatDee Spring is here, and with the new season comes the phrase you’ve

probably heard a parent or relative say, “spring cleaning.” Christmas passes, and as the new year approaches, junk seems to pop up as it is accumulated over the months. Extra wrapping paper, decorations and that box that still hasn’t been unpacked since you moved into your dorm this semester pile up until there is no other option but to get cleaning. W h i l e s p r i n g semester does bring a lot of work and worry, consider

the idea that spring cleaning may help relieve stress. According to Shape Magazine, cleaning up your space can help you destress from the work day, and it also leaves your space feeling neat and clean. Spring cleaning can also help you save money. Most of the time when you lose something, you’ll often go and pick up the same item at the store rather than looking for it. On a college budget, spring cleaning may help with keeping your money in the right place instead of in a cash register at Target. Of course, nothing says spring like a little décor. For easy options,

you can make your own DIY decorations with items from the dollar store. YouTuber Nastazsa created a bunch of decorations that are simple and easy to make. To make little visual vases, all you need is a vase and air freshener beads. Place the beads in the vases to create a room atmosphere that smells nice and adds a touch of color. You can also create cute pinwheel flowers. All you need are some garden pinwheel flowers for your garden, decorative rocks and vases. You place the pinwheels in the vases and hold them in the middle so they stay straight, then

add the decorative rocks. These create a fun little piece that can spin and bring the joy of spring to your room. If you want something floral, there’s also an easy DIY flower arrangement. All you need are fake flowers, hot glue, ribbon and a Styrofoam disk. Hot glue the ribbon onto the disk, take the flowers off the stems and then press them into the foam. This makes an easy and fun little piece that can easily stay for not only the season but can also be used

for other arrangements throughout the year.

Entertainment & Lifestyle’s ‘Year in Review’ By Emily Ford Editor-in-chief @152emily 2016 is over, and whether you enjoyed it or not, it was a great year for entertainment. One of the first things to happen in the year was “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” becoming the highest grossing film in North America. Not only did the space saga soar past the $760.5 million lifetime gross of “Avatar,” the film did it within 20 days. Leonardo DiCaprio had an amazing year. His movie, “The Revenant” dominated at the Golden Globes, and DiCaprio finally won his Oscar after being nominated five times. FGCU student Caitlyn Mannherz was featured in People magazine’s “Half their size” issue. After being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, Mannherz decided it was time to teach herself how to be healthy. “You have to start to recognize the behaviors that got you to where you are,” Mannherz said, “and then, learn how to change them.” FGCU alumna Kailah Casillas joined the cast for MTV’s “Real World:

Go Big or Go Home.” For the 31st season of “Real World,” MTV added some unexpected twists. The contestants were given weekly missions that had to be completed, and if they were to fail, that contestant would be sent home. FGCU student Sarajane Evans opened up a storefront for her business, Sunny & Southern. Sunny & Southern is a monogram store where you can personalize everything from t-shirts to mugs. And, FGCU alumna Elizabeth Gilliard founded her homemade candle business, Lizzie’s Lights. Gilliard has been selling her candles at the FGCU Fresh Market since fall 2015. Many hot spots opened up near FGCU during 2016. GameTime opened its doors in Gulf Coast Town Center, and the soda-candy shop Rocket Fizz also opened in GCTC. FGCU students also showed off their music capabilities in 2016. Alec Prorock released his first solo album, “Cloud Chameleon.” Malike Adigun released his third Dunk City music video, and Swat Team and Luke Janke released a self-made EP, “Love Birds.” Alumnus Jesse Glendinning’s

band also released their sophomore album, “Midterm.” 2016 brought a lot of famous visitors to FGCU. Big Black stopped by to give a lecture on diversity; Chase Rice performed at Nest Fest, and Nick Cannon’s Wild n’ Out made an appearance. FGCU alumnus Wally Crane satisfied every student’s sandwich needs with the opening of his restaurant, Wally’s Deli. Facebook introduced new reactions: Love, Sad, Hate, Angry and Wow. According to NBC News, Facebook spent more than a year studying Facebook actions to determine what other quick little indicators of emotion outside of the Like could be incorporated into the site. Then, on Feb. 24, the reactions were born. As Facebook soared, Vine announced that it was going to discontinue. Although the six-second app platform has ended, the content will still be live on the web version. Hollywood suffered a lot of losses during 2016 — from Prince to David Bowie, Harper Lee, Carrie Fisher, Debbie Reynolds, Alan Rickman and many more. Many shows made a

comeback in 2016. Gilmore Girls came back in with four 90-minute episodes in a mini movie format, and “Fuller House,” the spin off of “Full House,” also had a revival. Both streamed on Netflix. Many artists released albums that left a huge impact in the music entertainment world, such as The Weeknd’s album “Starboy” and Bruno Mars’ funky “24K Magic.” Childish Gambino also took a break from acting in his critically acclaimed show, “Atlanta,” to record “Awaken, My Love!”

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Travels that led to unforgettable experiences Evita Leter making waves around the world

Joining FGCU swimming & diving alumni Lani Cabrera in the 2016 Rio Olympics, Leter represented Suriname in Rio before returning to FGCU for her senior season where she competes in the breast and individual medley events.

By Emily Kois Assistant Sports Editor @emilykois With an outstanding senior season, it is hard to imagine the hard work Evita Leter has put in over the years. Leter found her passion early on in life after watching her older sister and then starting her career at the age of four. In Leter’s home country, Suriname, children are expected to know how to swim. However, this country norm soon turned into a love for Leter, launching her swimming career. “Back home, it was a big thing for every kid to know how to swim, so

that’s how I got my first and second certificate,” Leter said. “Usually people go and finish all of them, but I stopped there and just joined a team.” After practicing with her team in Suriname and getting third in the 50-meter breaststroke during her first race, the elite swimmer fell in love with the sport. By the age of 6, Leter was traveling with her club team and has not stopped traveling since. Luckily, when Leter was 15, her travels brought her to the United States where her swimming career really took off. “I was 15 when they were trying to expand

the sport of swimming in Suriname, so they sent a group of five kids to the U.S. to get a degree, while also improving their swimming because we don’t have the facilities like you guys have over here.” Unfortunately, after about a year, Suriname stopped that program, but Leter remained in the United States in the hopes of furthering her swimming abilities. Staying with a host family throughout high school allowed Leter to be recruited by FGCU. “Evita is awesome; she is everything you want in a teammate,” head swimming coach Dave Rollins said. “She’s very supportive of

the girls on the team. She’s somebody that we’re trying to find more people like her.” Even after being named Suriname’s Swimmer of the Year, in the running for Female Athlete of the Year and partaking in the 2016 Rio Olympics, Leter remains humble. “I’ve never been in the running for it; this is the first time I’ve been considered for (Swimmer of the Year), and also to be in the running for Female Athlete of the Year is just a highlight of the year.” It is hard to imagine growing a sport into a passion at the age of 4, but with Leter, it seems almost possible. Her passion then

led her to a stage that only elite athletes can fathom – the Olympics. Alongside Leter was FGCU alumna volleyball player Brooke Sweat and FGCU alumna swimmer Lani Cabrera. This not only made FGCU history, it was also the experience of a lifetime for Leter and other top FGCU alumni athletes. “Living in the village with all the top athletes, like Usain Bolt, was really cool. Every athlete there was just the best in their field, so it was really cool to see that.” As a senior, there seems to be a lot of unanswered questions for Leter. However, she plans to continue her training beyond school in the hopes

EN Photo / Kim Smith

of making it to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. “I’m finishing off my season, and after that, I’m going to continue to train for Worlds in Budapest this summer and then see what I decide to do after the summer.” From Suriname to Southwest Florida and many places in between, it is hard to pinpoint where exactly Evita Leter will be next.

Orlando City honors Pulse victims in new stadium

Photo courtesy of orlandocitysc.com The 49 rainbow seats will pay tribute to the 49 people killed in the Pulse nightclub shooting that took place on June 12, 2016.

By Emily Ford Editor-in-chief @152Emily Orlando City soccer team president Phil Rawlins held a private ceremony on Wednesday, Jan. 4 where he unveiled 49 rainbow-colored seats honoring the 49 Pulse Nightclub shooting victims. The seats, which honor the people killed in the Orlando gay nightclub on June 12, are in section 12. The new stadium is set to open in March at the start of the 2017 Major League Soccer season. Each seat features a #OrlandoUnited stamp,

memorializing one of the tragedy’s victims. This memorial will be a permanent feature in the new stadium that can seat up 25,500 people. “Just over six months ago on June the 12th, there was the senseless loss of 49 lives at the Pulse Nightclub,” Rawlins said in the video of the private ceremony the club released. “As a sport, as a community, as a soccer club, we responded to that tragedy in the very best possible way.” According to Rawlins, the seats were placed in section 12 because it will serve “as a constant

reminder of the senseless acts of June 12.” On June 18, Orlando City played a home game and paid tribute to the victims of the largest mass shooting in modern U.S. history. “It was my belief, I know it’s your belief as a club, that this sport can lift up a community and help to heal a community,” Rawlins said. “And that’s what we did on that Saturday following the Pulse tragedy. We made a commitment on that day that, which is that we would commemorate, forever, in the new stadium a memory of the 49 victims that lost their lives that day. And, today we’re here to do that.”

EN Illustration / Audrey Mobley


EDITOR: MIGUEL RODRIGUEZ | SPORTS@EAGLENEWS.ORG

B2 SPORTS EAGLE NEWS WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11

Albert Ruiz to return for senior season By Miguel Rodriguez Sports Editor @Miguel_Rod0914 Two days before the Mac Hermann trophy ceremony in St. Louis, Missouri, FGCU forward Albert Ruiz announced on Twitter that he will be returning to FGCU for his senior season. “I can officially say that I’ll be playing College soccer for one more season,” Ruiz said on Twitter. “One more year to become a better player. Grind Season is here!” Although Wake Forrest Midfielder Ian Harkes took home the MAC Hermann trophy besting Maryland’s Gordon Wild and Ruiz, the Barcelona, Spain, native lead the Eagles to their best season in program history. Leading the nation in

goals with 22 and finishing 49 points, Ruiz scored more goals than 74 teams and secured more points than 43 teams. Propelling the Eagles to the second round of the NCAA College Cup for the first time in program history after scoring the last penalty kick to send FGCU past USF. Ruiz scored five goals in four postseason games including a goal against UNC who knocked the Eagles out of the College Cup with a 3-2 overtime victory. Guiding FGCU to its fourth ASUN Championship title in six seasons, Ruiz propelled the Eagles to a No. 11 national ranking, including a program-best 10 game win streak during being ranked in the top 15. The awards rolled in

following Ruiz’s historic campaign in which he averaged 1.10 goals per game and 2.45 points per game, being named a MAC Hermann Trophy finalist, NSCAA First Team AllAmerican, ASUN Player of the Year, ASUN First Team member, ASUN Tournament MVP and ASUN All-Tournament team member. Ruiz was also named the ASUN Player of the week and National Player of the week on Sept. 19 and Oct. 3. Under new reigns after program founder Bob Butehorn resigned from his position to accept the head coaching job at USF, Ruiz’s return to a youngbut-experienced Eagles side in the beginning of a new era without their programfounding skipper.

EN Photo / Brad Young Leading the nation with 22 goals, Albert Ruiz will return to the Nest to lead the Eagles’ front line in 2017.

Tabby Tindell named to ASUN Fall 2016 Winners for Life By Miguel Rodriguez Sports Editor @Miguel_Rod0914 Highlighting success on and off the field, the Atlantic Sun Conference named Tabby Tindell to its Fall 2016 Winners for Life team for demonstrating the conference’s core values: education, honesty, student-athlete experience, fairness, health, ambition, respect, diversity, inclusion, leadership, responsibility and sportsmanship. Entering her senior season with a 3.29 GPA, the health science major earned Dean’s List three times, Athletic Director’s Honor Roll five times EN Photo / Brad Young and ASUN All-Academic The most lethal goal scorer in FGCU women’s soccer history, Tabby Tindell holds the program record and Atlantic Sun ConferHonors twice. ence reocrd for most career goals.

On the field, Tindell won the ASUN Player of the Year for the third consecutive season in 2016, setting conference records in career goals with 66 and points with 162 while topping FGCU’s career assist list with 30. FGCU’s all-time leading goal scorer, the Ocala native led every major offensive category, finishing the campaign with 14 goals and eight assist en route to leading the Eagles to an undefeated record in conference play and their seventh consecutive ASUN regular-season title. Propelling FGCU to their fifth NCAA Tournament appearance in six seasons, Tindell’s illustrious career came to

an end with a 3-0 defeat to Florida in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Adding to her plethora of awards during her four-year career as an Eagle, Tindell was named a Top 10 Forward by TopDrawerSoccer. com, a Top 30 overall player in the country by TopDrawerSoccer, 2016 ASUN All-Conference First Team member, 2016 ASUN All-Tournament team member, NSCAA All-South Region First Team member, NSCAA Third Team All-American, First Team Senior CLASS All-American, and TopDrawerSoccer Third Team Best XI member all in her senior season.

DII hockey looks ahead to the second half of the season By Keaton Hanley Staff Writer @ChirpinParaKeat The Eagles have been near perfect in the first half of their season, boasting a 150-2 record, and coming out on top in every home game so far this season. At home, the Eagles have maintained an average of 6.73 goals a game. While their goaltending has been just as good with the tandem of Bradley Rambhajan and Tyler Tracy allowing a mere 1.33 goals per game on home ice. Rambhajan (10-0) has three shutouts, a 1.67 GAA and a save percentage of .921 overall. While Tracy (5-0-2) has a 2.11 GA, and a .915 save percentage. The Eagles’ penalty kill has scored 14 times while shorthanded, led by eight shorthanded tallies by Josh Koerner. They have also put up 10 goals on the limited amount of times they have been on the power play, led by Mike Chemello with five of those goals. The Eagles have been an offensive dynamo this season, with Koerner already at the forty point mark (23G 17A).

Three other players have over thirty points: Chemello (14G 20A), Jordan Klotz (18G 16A) and David Wong (15G 16A). Despite missing two games due to injury, Nate Pelligra is right there reaching for the thirty point mark with 27 points (9G 18A). Eduardo Leon has also eclipsed 20 points this season with 22 points (6G 16A). As the second half of the season continues, the Eagles don’t take on a single DII team with a current losing record. They take on Michigan State (6-4) at home in a back to back series on Friday, Jan. 13 and Saturday, Jan. 14. This is the Eagles last home matchup of January as they go on the road for only the second time this season to head to a tournament in Oxford, Ohio. While in Ohio, the Eagles take on arguably some of the best teams so far this season in three games in three days. On the first day, they take on a Grand Valley St. University (11-4-1) team that was ranked No. 2 in the Central of the ACHA. Then the next day they take on Lindenwood University (137-1) who were ranked No. 7 in

the Central. On the final day of the trip, the Eagles face their best opponent of the season thus far, Lindenwood University-Belleville(13-5-1), who was ranked No. 1 in the Central Division, above a Davenport University team which the Eagles struggled against early on in the season while on the road. After returning from the road trip, the Eagles will have a six-game home stand. They return to take on DI opponent, Towson University (9-10-1), before facing off next week against the team which they tied with on the road earlier in the season, Davenport University (12-7-2). The Eagles wrap up their regular season at home against UMass-Amherst (10-8-2) on Feb. 10 and Feb. 11. The Eagles then have one week off before they head to Lynchburg, Virginia for three days of Southeast Regionals from Feb. 24 to Feb. 26. If all goes well, the Eagles have a shot at repeating their DII National Championship in Columbus, Ohio, the week of March 14 to March 19.

Brandon Goodwin Position: Guard Redshirt Junior 6 feet 2 inches Hometown: Norcross, Georgia In the Eagles’ first conference game of the season, Brandon Goodwin capped off an incredible 89-88 win over the Stetson Hatters. During the final moments of the game, Goodwin drove in for an uncontested layup;- however, the Hatters pushed the ball up the court to convert a layup with only 3.6 seconds left. With just seconds left, Goodwin used a pump fake to draw in defenders, ultimately earning him three free throws with only .6 seconds left of the game. Goodwin was named the ASUN Newcomer of the Week for the third time this year after hitting all three free throws in the game against Stetson, giving FGCU a one-point win over the Hatters. EN Illustrations / Audrey Mobley


WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11 EAGLE NEWS SPORTS B3

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FGCU DII hockey picks up right where they left off

EN Photo /Kim Smith

The FGCU DII Hockey team kicked off 2017 with back-to-back victories as the quest for to defend their National Championship edges closer and closer.

By Keaton Hanley Staff Writer @ChirpinParaKeat The Eagles started the New Year off the same way they finished 2016, winning. Coming into the game, the Eagles’ record stood at the top of the ACHA at 130-2. The Eagles took their first win of 2017 against the University of Delaware Blue Hens in a 7-0 contest. Bradley Rambhajan came in as the Eagle’s goalie in both games, boasting an impressive goals against average of 1.57, good for fourth in the ACHA, while Jake Wolff got the nod for the Blue Hens both nights. As both teams looked to get their feet back under them after a nearly month-long break, early on consisted of a lot of physicality and heavy hitting. Eagle’s defenseman Matt Salera wasted no time as he racked up four hits within the first ten minutes of play. The Eagles were able to break the 0-0 tie with 8:04 left in the first period when Michael Chemello was able to get Wolff to bite on a deke and Klotz would burry a loose puck in the paint. The Eagles would get a penalty with 1:03 left in

the period and would take the remainder of it along with the 1-0 lead to the intermission. The Eagles would kill off the remaining 57 seconds on the penalty kill and get a power play of their own soon after, but were unable to capitalize. Soon after the power play, the Eagles would take a 2-0 lead when in tic-tactoe fashion Jake Leonard would send it to Nathan Pelligra and then to David Wong who slipped it by Wolff who never stood a chance. The next shift, the Blue Hens would get their best chance of the night on a cross-crease play where Rambhajan would flash the glove, leaving the Delaware forward with his stick over his head, looking up in disbelief. With 2:44 left in the period, Mark Arnone snuck into the slot and fired a shot through Wolff’s fivehole to give the Eagles a 3-0 lead. The Eagles weren’t done yet, as Arnone would set up Klotz for his second of the night on a back-and-forth passing play, as once again the fivehole of Wolff was the target. Heading into the second intermission, the Eagles held a commanding four-

goal lead over the Blue Hens. The third period began much like the second period ended, as Klotz would find the back of the net via Wolff’s fivehole at 18:57, giving Klotz the hat trick. Klotz wasn’t quite done exposing Wolff’s fivehole, as he added to his total again at 13:10 of the third period, extending the Eagles lead to six. A mere 17 seconds later, Steve Noyes would rip a shot glove side and tickle twine for the Eagles seventh and final goal of the night. The Eagles would take two penalties late to give the Blue Hens a 5-3 for a little over a minute, but Rambhajan and the Eagles defense stood tall to give Rambhajan his third shutout of the season. In the second of the back-to-back series, the Eagles faced adversity for the first time at home but still took a 7-4 victory. Rambahajan and Wolff both got their starts again in net for their respective teams. The Eagles went down on the scoreboard early when the Blue Hens were able to score off of a deflection early on the power play.

Chris Sale named to Forbes list ‘30 Under 30’ By Miguel Rodriguez Sports Editor @Miguel_Rod0914 In Forbes sixth-annual 30 Under 30 list, honoring 30 innovators and changemakers under the age of 30 featuring 20 different categories, former FGCU standout Chris Sale was named to the list in the sports category. Recently acquired by the Boston Red Sox in the offseason, the FGCU Alumni and five-time AllStar went 17-10 last season with the Chicago White Sox,

striking out 233 batters on the season. Named the starting pitcher for the American League All-Stars in the 2016 All-Star game held in San Diego, California, the Lakeland native has finished in the top five in Cy Young Award voting in the past three seasons. Drafted No. 13 by the Chicago White Sox in the MLB Draft following his junior season at FGCU, Sale went 11-0 with an ERA of 2.01 in his junior season with the Eagles, earning him a plethora of

honors including three AllAmerican selections and the 2010 Collegiate Baseball National Player of the Year award. The 2015 American League strikeout leader is set to earn $12 million in his first season with the Red Sox with club options for higher pay. Other athletes included on the list were Olympian Simone Biles, New York Giants Wide Receiver Odell Beckham Jr. and Boston Red Sox teammate Mookie Betts.

In mocking fashion, the Blue Hens celebrated in a large jumping huddle, something they probably now regret doing. The Blue Hens would score another off a deflection from a shot taken right in front of Rambhajan where the puck careened off an Eagles defenseman and in. The Eagles wouldn’t go easily into the intermission, as they had multiple scoring chances fought off by Wolff, but finally at the 1:31 mark Josh Koerner would one time a puck by Wolff while on the power play after a nice cross crease pass by Leonard. Unable to get on the board a second time, the Eagles went into the intermission trailing for the first time at home. The Eagles would come out in the second with a fire lit under them, scoring five unanswered goals, four of which came in the first 6:20 of the second period of play. Early on, at 19:15 Chemello would walk into the Blue Hens zone and rip a shot from the top of the circle on Wolff’s blocker side, and for his tying goal celebration they mimicked the Blue Hens’ over-the-top celebration from earlier in the game.

Three minutes later, Pelligra would find the puck on his stick at the point. While falling, he took a slapshot that found its way through traffic and into the back of the net, giving FGCU the lead. The Eagles would score again, and in impressive fashion, as Shawn O’Meara in his debut muscled through two Blue Hens, then to the puck through the final defender’s feet and turning him inside out before roofing a shot to put the Eagles up two. This would cause for the Blue Hens coach to call a timeout to try and get his guys back in the game. It didn’t work. The Eagles would soon after the timeout score yet again when Klotz jammed a puck sitting in the crease into the back of the net. The Eagles would add to their score at 3:56 when Brett Yochum fired a shot from the outside of the middle of left circle going blocker side on Wolff, who didn’t even have a chance to raise his blocker. After an explosive offensive showing in the second, the Eagles carried a 6-2 lead into the intermission. The Eagles looked to get out to a hot start to the

third when Klotz would score on a breakaway, but the goal was taken away after a lengthy discussion amongst the officials who would rule that a hit to the head occurred prior to the goal, thus turning a goal into a penalty in the worst magic trick FGCU fans have seen this season. Delaware would come within three goals of the Eagles as they scored on the power play they were gifted, making it 6-3. A slew of penalties would be called in the next ten minutes with the Eagles able to kill them all off. Wong would add another, then promptly get a penalty right after for unsportsmanlike conduct, which the Eagles would also kill. The Blue Hens would score again with 57 seconds left but it was too little too late as the Eagles picked up the 7-4 victory, their 15th on the season. The Eagles take on Michigan State on Friday, Jan. 13 and Saturday, Jan. 14 at 8:30 p.m.


B4 SPORTS EAGLE NEWS WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11

EDITOR: MIGUEL RODRIGUEZ SPORTS@EAGLENEWS.ORG

This week in athletics Men’s tennis at FGCU Spring Invite

By Emily Kois Assistant Sports Editor @emilykois The FGCU men’s tennis team gets back into action as its spring season quickly approaches. The Eagles are slated to host their annual spring invite, featuring a pair of nationally ranked rivals. No. 25 USF, Wisconsin and Louisville will head down to Fort Myers to begin the spring season Jan.

Women’s tennis at FGCU Spring Invite

By Emily Kois Assistant Sports Editor @emilykois After finishing up its fall season, the FGCU women’s tennis team will start play for the 2017 spring season with its annual home invite. The three-day invitational is set to be played at the FGCU tennis complex, beginning Saturday, Jan. 14 and will go

Men’s basketball vs. Kennesaw State

By Matt Rothman Staff Writer @MattRothman3 The FGCU men’s basketball team will play its second ASUN conference game when it heads to Kennesaw State on Thursday, Jan. 12, at 7 p.m. The Owls, who are led by redshirt senior Kendrick Ray, finished their out-of-conference schedule with a record of 6-10. The Eagles closed out their nonconference schedule with a record

of 11-6 with their 11 wins becoming the program record for nonconference wins. FGCU won all three meetings between these two teams last year including a matchup in the ASUN Tournament which FGCU won 7464 en route to its second ASUN Tournament title. The Eagles will look to build upon their recent success against Kennesaw State and look for their 14th win all time vs the Owls.

13 through Jan. 16. The Eagles will face Wisconsin Friday, Jan. 13 at 6 p.m., Louisville Saturday, Jan. 14 at 6 p.m. and close off their home invite against No. 25 USF on Sunday, Jan. 15 at 4 p.m. The Eagles hope to defend its title of ASUN Conference Champions for the second-straight season as they began their 19-match schedule.

through Monday, Jan. 16. The Eagles ended their fall season 28-26 overall in singles play and 17-14 in doubles play after competing in five matches. Next, the Eagles will stay at home and compete against USF at the FGCU Tennis Complex Sunday, Nov. 22.

Women’s basketball vs. Lipscomb

By Emily Kois Assistant Sports Editor @emilykois To begin a double-header against Lipscomb, the FGCU women’s basketball team is set to play the Bisons Saturday, Jan. 14 at 1:30 p.m. These two conference teams met twice last season, with the Eagles dominating both games. First on Jan. 24 in Nashville with the

Eagles winning 71-39 and a second time on Feb. 20 at Alico Arena with FGCU taking the game, 91-52. The Bison will travel down to Fort Myers later on in the season to verse the Eagles again Feb. 13. Next, the Eagles will travel to Kennesaw, Georgia, on Monday, Jan. 16 to verse the Owls.

Men’s basketball vs. Lipscomb By Emily Kois Assistant Sports Editor @emilykois After coming off of a game against Kennesaw State, the FGCU men’s basketball team are slated to play Lipscomb on Saturday, Jan. 14 at 5 p.m. in Nashville, Tennessee. These two conference teams met twice last year, once on Jan. 24 in Nashville, Tennessee, where Lipscomb took the game 75-91 and a second time at

Women’s basketball vs. Kennesaw State

By Matt Rothman Staff Writer @MattRothman3 The FGCU women’s basketball team heads to Georgia where it will play the Kennesaw State Owls in the final game of a three-game road trip to start ASUN conference play on Monday, Jan. 16, at 12 p.m. The Owls finished up non-conference play with a record of 1-13 with their lone win coming against Savannah State. FGCU finished 11-6 in non-conference play, as it won their last five games prior

Alico Arena on Feb. 18 where the Eagles won 82-67. This will be the first of two games between Lipscomb and FGCU this season. The second game will be hosted by the Eagles on Feb. 9. Next, the Eagles will travel back to Alico Arena to face USC Upstate, Thursday, Jan. 19 at 7 p.m.

to the start of ASUN play. The Eagles have won the last 12 meetings and have an all-time record of 18-2 vs. Kennesaw State. The last time these two teams met was last season at Alico Arena, where FGCU defeated Kennesaw State, 63-41. The Eagles will look for another win against the Owls before coming back home to Alico Arena


WEDNESDAY,JANUARY 11 EAGLE NEWS SPORTS B5

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OPINION

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Textbooks, you’re killing us The financial burden of required course materials By Sam Palmisano Assisant Opinion Editor @SamPalmisano $543.56. Before taxes, that’s the total cost for my textbooks this semester, even if I rent used copies when possible. Some students see this price as better than what they’re going to spend this spring. With the cost of some books being $200 or more many students find themselves spending hundreds of dollars each semester on textbooks. Student Public Interest Research Group, a Bostonbased organization, released a report titled “Covering the Cost,” showing that textbook prices rose 73 percent between 2006 and 2016. That’s more than four times the rate of inflation during this time. NBC News reports that prices are up 1041 percent since 1977. Since textbooks are usually required for the course, students are forced to cough up the cash or risk harming their academic success. One of the more frustrating things about these mandatory books is that some professors don’t end up using them. “I spent $104 on a public speaking loose leaf book,” Taylor Schaap, a

EN Photo / Brad Young

FGCU students wait in line at the bookstore to pick up their textbooks.

sophomore finance major said. “I never even used it. It’s still sitting unopened in my room.” For courses where the textbook isn’t used much, students – including myself – may take their chances. I couldn’t bring myself to spend $215 on a used biology textbook last semester, and my grade

suffered for it. When having the textbook is essential to passing the course, students look to other sources for their books. Popular sites include Amazon, Chegg or eBay. These sites allow students the option to rent new and used books for often much cheaper prices.

A new trend is the use of access codes to online books, texts or software. Since they only work for one semester, access codes eliminate the option to rent or find used copies. This only raises the cost to the student. Access codes are the bulk of my costs this semester: $195, $170 and

$145. Math classes that use MyMathLab have access codes from $100-200. The average science textbook is at least $250 at the FGCU bookstore. “I would be okay spending that much money on actual textbooks, but it seems ridiculous to charge so much for online access,” Logan Miller, a

sophomore finance major said after spending nearly $750. “I would usually buy a used copy of a book from Amazon, but now I have to spend close to $200 for a brand new access code from the bookstore.” Online textbooks should theoretically be cheaper for students, but companies can charge as much as they want because students are required or heavily encouraged to use the textbooks. The “Covering the Cost” study found that onethird of college students use financial aid money on textbooks, with the average spending amount being more than $300. Over eight semesters, this study shows that college students are spending close to $2,500 on textbooks alone. “I got luckier this semester, but last fall I spent about $550 on my books,” Courtney Kramer, a freshman nursing major. Students dread buying textbooks at the beginning of the semester, and rightfully so. Between rising tuition rates and increased textbook prices, the cost of getting a college degree is becoming significantly more expensive.

Remember the past, live in the present Don’t let your past define who you are

Photo courtesy of Buck via Flickr

The future is always one moment away.

By Sydney Van Dreason Staff Writer @sydney_0815 Remember when we were kids in elementary school, talking and laughing with friends on the playground during recess and just starting to learn what subjects in school we liked and which ones we despised with a passion? Making friends and determining what we liked and didn’t like seemed to be simplistic back then, but as we got through high school

and eventually moved on to college, the bar was raised, and everything seemed to get 10 times more complicated. Have you ever wondered why you choose certain people to befriend or why you prefer to keep yourself busy with some pastimes and not others? It has something to do with this wonderful thing we call the past. Some people want nothing more than to forget their pasts, and they view college as a perfect

opportunity to start over with new friends, studies and hobbies. But, shockingly, we can actually learn about ourselves and make choices for our future based on the experiences and events from our past. When I was in fourth grade, I was exposed to the narrative style of writing, and I immediately fell in love with it. That realization stuck with me and influenced me to write every day and read more until I finally decided that

I wanted to do this forever and become an author. Picking a major was easy for me once that time of high school came, and I’ve been able to make lifelong friends through the years who understand my dedication and devotion to writing and literature and who even share some of the same interests as me. Along with the passion I had for writing came the motivation to join clubs in high school and submit works to contests, a few of which I ended up placing first in. I joined my high school newspaper and helped grow my writing there, even though it’s a different style than what I normally do. In this sense, life reminds me of a giant game of connect the dots. Writing inspired me to join my high school’s newspaper and enter contests, which in turn motivated me to seek out the newspaper table during my college orientation. And now, here I am. Celebrities also use their pasts to impact and set a pathway for their futures. Video blogger Bethany

Mota and mixed martial artist Paige VanZant were both bullied in school, but both have used that experience to shape their futures. Mota creates videos about fashion and style, but when she went on “Dancing with the Stars” in 2014, she shared her bullying story and dedicated a dance to the experience. During National Bullying Prevention Month in October of 2015, Mota also gave anti-bullying talks. VanZant was inspired to study mixed martial arts as a result of being bullied. Now, VanZant is a champion fighter for the Women’s Strawweight Division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. All that being said, it’s important that we don’t live in the past though. Yes, our pasts do influence our futures and guide us in our decision-making, but we shouldn’t get hung up in our past mistakes and in reliving our old memories. Life is all about learning new things, meeting new people and making new memories. We can’t do that if we insist on staying in the

past. As college kids, that whole concept of moving on from the past can either be really easy or really hard. Some of us may be looking forward to going through life one day at a time with no idea what’s going to happen next, while others aren’t comfortable with change and seek the comfort of their past lives before they moved on to college. Whichever type you are, it’s important to remember that your past does not define who you are. Sure, you may be remembered for specific roles and actions you took in the past, and it does contribute to your personality and your interests, but it doesn’t define you as a person. While the past may impact your future and teach you more about yourself overall, it is essentially a collection of memories, people, events and mistakes that make you the person you are, but it’s not a permanent label of who you will always be.


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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11 EAGLE NEWS OPINION B7

Improvements in male birth control Severe side effects lead to cancellation of study

By Emily McLean Contributing Writer @ebmac97 Male birth control is a product that has been in the development for years, even as early as the 1950s. Recently, a study was commissioned by the

World Health Organization, in which 320 men in monogamous heterosexual relationships around the world were given two injections of hormones every eight weeks that were designed to lower sperm count. The study found that

the injections were 96 percent effective and of the 320 participants, only four pregnancies resulted from this. However, this study was cut short after the side effects were found to be too severe, with 1,491 reports of adverse effects of the drug.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia commons

Female contraceptive pills have been approved since 1960.

Many participants dropped out of the study because the side effects were too severe. Some of these side effects included the development of acne and mood swings. The most dangerous side effects included one man developing severe depression and another attempting to commit suicide. The study was stopped after a committee found the birth control to have too many side effects. The average recovery time for the men to be considered fertile again was approximately 26 weeks. Another adverse effect of the birth control was that after one year of not taking the injections, eight people were found to still be

infertile. Those who supported the study believed that it was hypocritical for researchers to end the study because women have been having to deal with similar symptoms – like weight gain and mood swings – when taking birth control as well. Some people were against the study and supported the cancellation of it. They claim that it is incredibly dangerous to be tampering with people’s emotions and even believe that it may violate the ethical clinical background guidelines. According to the scientists who conducted the study, although this was a setback in terms of developing a successful

male birth control, they are still optimistic that with some adjustments to the hormones injected, a solution will eventually be found. While the opportunity for male birth control would be beneficial in reducing unwanted pregnancies, more research should be conducted in order to ensure the product is as safe as possible. Hopefully, this study is opening the discussion of improving the quality of female birth control as well. If this is something that you are interested in, I encourage you to do more research on the topic and be aware of further research that will certainly be conducted.

Memories: the greatest gift of all By Samantha Wills Staff Writer @samanthajwills6 Millennials are known for being the generation that is obsessed with innovation and experiences – especially when it comes to keeping up with trends. That being said, it’s really no surprise that the most technologically advanced generation the world has ever seen would focus their gift giving habits on experiences rather than objects. Millenials appreciate the intricacies of giving what they themselves truly desire: the opportunity to make some beautiful memories and plan out an almost-too-perfect Instagram post. I can see why people of my generation would opt

to give a gift that would be more experience-oriented than anything else. When I go shopping for somebody else, I consider two things: what that person likes or enjoys and how I would feel if I received such a gift. Like my fellow millennials, I would rather purchase an experience than a physical gift. My reasoning for this is that when someone purchases an experience, that person can keep that memory for a lifetime, much longer than some trinket. As an early Christmas present, I bought my mom and I tickets to Cirque de Soleil while they were at Germain Arena. I bought two of the best seats possible because I knew my mom may never see this show again and I wanted her to have this memory of

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia commons

Many millennials have begun gifting experiences rather than traditional gifts.

us forever. My mom and I have now talked about that show more often and with more excitement than any other present I have ever given her. It’s no secret that millennials are very big on using any and every form

of technology possible on a daily basis. Millennials love to document every moment that they find noteworthy. We write about, photograph and/or record memories on a daily basis regardless of the individual memory’s significance to our lives as whole. These

memories could be as small as a cup of coffee or as big as a wedding. As much as a physical gift can serve as a reminder of someone who gave that object to you, memories are what millennials are interested in providing. Experiences can stay in

a person’s memories for the rest of their lives. Millennials have spent most of their time, aided by technology, chasing great memories, experiences and adventures. It only makes sense for them to try to give others the same opportunities as a gift.

Syrians cry for help

Residents of Aleppo took to Twitter to plead their case By Abby Grunder Contributing Writer @Abbycg91 “My name is Bana, I’m seven years old. I am talking to the world now live from East #Aleppo. This is my last moment to either live or die” tweets Aleppo native Bana. While most of Twitter is filled with funny pictures or its users’ passing thoughts, Syrians are taking to the site to bring attention to their war-filled lives. Syria has been fighting a civil war for over five years now, and Aleppo is currently under constant attacks. The war is between the Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, his supporters and the rebels, those who oppose the president and want him out of power. Many Americans are unaware of this long-fought war as it has been drastically underrepresented. The Syrian government has gravely wronged its citizens. A leader is meant to work toward bettering

the lives of citizens, not ruthlessly executing innocent civilians because they have opposed him or her as a leader. These people are fighting to remove him from power and he is denying their right to be heard. President al-Assad and his supporters are abusing their power and must be stopped. Powerful countries, like the U.S., must step in and help the people of Syria. The citizens of Aleppo are calling upon us to intervene and we must no longer ignore this call. The American media has repeatedly ignored what is going on across the globe and has focused on American problems like the divorce of a celebrity couple or a wardrobe malfunction at a prestigious awards show. Americans must open their eyes and see what is going on across the globe. We have to begin paying attention to what is going on in Syria. Aleppo contains 2.3 million people and is one of

Syria’s largest cities. It is considered a Unesco World Heritage site, meaning it is essential in regards to the world’s history and culture. Fighting in Aleppo began in July 2012 and has since escalated to being the forefront of the war. The city began to divide; the rebels controlled the east side while the west was run by the government soldiers and the president’s supporters. Recently, the government has taken control of both sides and has defeated the rebels. The government has released the civilians left in the city. However, many were halted as the government felt the rebels were not obeying established rules. Evacuations continue today, but thousands remain trapped in the city while bombs rain from the Syrian government and one of its biggest supporters, Russia. Aleppo citizens have taken to social media to relay their desperate calls for help. Chilling tweets show cries for mercy and

A Free Syrian Army rebel walks among the rubble in Aleppo, Syria.

justice. Many tweet their dreaded goodbyes. A Syrian teacher and father, tweeted, “I am not sure if there is tomorrow, but I might see good news. You are not voiceless but we are. Do it before it is too late #Aleppo.” Citizens are calling upon their followers to support Aleppo and bring the attacks to the forefront of our governments’ minds, as little action has been taken to stop these horrid attacks. The United Nations has recently pushed for international supporters to monitor the evacuation of civilians. However, the

Syrian government denied this right, meaning these evacuations will continue to be overseen by the Syrian government and their allies. These mass killings and executions cannot go unseen any longer. American citizens must realize the extreme suffering these people are living through. Our government should work with other powerful countries to put a stop to this war. The citizens of Aleppo are crying out for our help. America can no longer sit back and ignore this war. We must stand with Aleppo

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia commons

and fight for a cease in fighting. A Syrian mom tweeted, “Dear world, there’s intense bombing right now. Why are you silent? Why? Why? Why? Fear is killing me & my kids.” Why are we staying silent while innocent children, mothers and fathers are being ruthlessly murdered?


OUTREACH MADD for change

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Mothers Against Drunk Driving strive for positive changes in Florida law

Photo courtesy of Lori Burke Event organizers stand on stage to support Malaina Mote (far right) who reads a speech about the loss of her brother to a drunk driver. Mote’s family stood below holding photos of Mote’s brother who was honored at the walk.

By Georgette French Outreach Editor @GeorgetteFrenc When people hear about Mothers Against Drunk Driving they typically associate the organization with mothers who are completely against alcohol but according to program director Lori Burke, MADD is about more than spreading the story of a mother who has experienced tragedy. It’s about making a change. MADD, which has been in five counties in Florida for more than three years, is an organization filled with many different types of people who are fighting to put an end to drunk driving through awareness and proper precautions. According to Burke, drunk driving is a problem that persists throughout Florida and even on campuses like FSW and FGCU. Students who attend discussions with MADD have explained that the reason they partake in drunk driving varies, but she said that the most common reason was due to how much alcohol was consumed and the distance that students need to drive. “What I’ve heard a lot is ‘We were literally at Gulf Coast Town Center, I am less than a mile away,’” Burke said. “But it’s statistical that most crashes happen within a mile of a person’s home and it does happen.” Due to the fact that a lot of students are neglectful of the statistic, Burke explained that that was why

MADD strives to partner with community groups that will help them spread the message. “I think it’s important to start that conversation before your brain is too impaired to make the right decision,” Burke said. MADD offers Victim Panels and open discussions where people can experience first hand the effect that drunk driving has on others. “It creates that impact without being judgemental or blaming way, but it does give them the chance to hear the stories of others and their families,” Burke said. The discussions also help educate the public about the costs and punishments of drunk driving and acquiring a DUI. According to the Florida DMV, a DUI fine on average costs between $200 and $500 dollars for first time offenders before legal fees. But Burke explained that with all the costs included, both repeat and first time offenders could look at fines anywhere between $800 and $150,00 depending on the circumstances. A DUI which is classified as a misdemeanor in Florida could also put offenders at risk of having their licenses suspended, face jail time, or be subject to probation and community services. “Knowing that, It would have been better to just get an Uber,” Burke said with a laugh. Discussions about

drunk driving are prevelent in MADD but so are discussions and work to fight for stricter punishment for first time offenders in Florida. According to the Florida DMV, any second time offender of a DUI is subject to an Ignition Interlock which will prevent drivers from starting their cars without providing a proper Blood Alcohol Level. And as of 2015, 28 states require an Ignitiom Interlock for all offenders. “It’s like a breathalyzer,” Burke said. “It takes a picture of you as you blow into it, and the car won’t start if it detects an alcohol level.” Members of MADD are fighting to bring this law to Florida where Burke believes more people would be off the road when drunk. “In 2014, 1.8 million people had the ignition interlock, and when you think of how many people that is that’s not on the road, that’s pretty powerful.” Another thing that MADD is fighting for is to have a bill passed that would prohibit drunk driving and enforce stricter laws. The organization had tried to get a similar bill passed in 2016, but due to complications, it was rejected. Burke hopes that with more figureheads backing the cause, the bill will be accepted this year. They will also strive to put on more events to raise awareness to the cause and help eliminate the taboo surrounding the

conversation about drunk driving. In 2016, one of the ways MADD brought awareness to SWFL was through the Walk like MADD event which marked the first walk that the organization had done. “What we wanted to do was create an experience for someone in a really positive manner to show them what our mission was and why exactly it mattered,” Burke said. The walk was dedicated to the younger brother of MADD program specialist Malaina Mote and others who came to share their stories about drunk driving. “There were 181 walkers and runners and more than 220 people including honored guests, printers and volunteers,” Burke said. “It required a lot of time and energy to put on but it was definitely worth it.” While Burke has been fortunate enough to live without the tragedy and heartbreak of losing a loved one to a drunk driver, Mote suffered the loss of her brother to a drunk driver in 2012. The death of her brother inspired her to take action against a persistent problem in Florida while also encouraging others to make a change. “I wanted to bring awareness because it’s something that’s 100 percent preventative. It’s not something that just happens and it’s not an accident,” Mote said. “It’s something that’s the result of a selfish decision as far as drinking and feeling like

it’s okay to get behind the wheel of a car.” Events like Walk like MADD help those like Burke and Mote reach families affected while educating the public and giving a face and voice to those who have been victimized by reckless decisions. For the new year, both Burke and Mote expressed that they will continue their work and try to spread the word about MADD but at the end of the day, Burke said that MADD just hoped to encourage people to make the right decision. “We wanted people to remember, inspire and commit,” Burke said, “Remember those whose lives have been lost, inspire people to take action, and

commit to doing so.” As for Mote, she said all she wants is for others to think about their actions before jumping into a car. “Your car is a weapon. Would you put a gun in a psychopath’s hands? No. So you shouldn’t put a car in the hands of a drunk,” Mote said. “Just think about your actions because you never know who is going to be on the road.” The organization is always open to volunteers and has partnered with FGCU students in the past. This year, Burke said that interested students can look forward to internship opportunities as well as volunteer hours for those who want them.

Photo courtesy of Lori Burke Lori Burke watches as guests prepare to walk for the MADD Dash at Fenway Park. Burke, 51, is a mother of two who has open conversations about drunk driving and prevention.

Agency of the Week The Foundation for the Developmentally Disabled of Naples, Florida, is devoted to enhancing the quality of life of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families through educational, social and recreational activities, advocating for housing and employment options and building community awareness. FDD supports adults with forms of Autism, Down syndrome, Fragile X, cerebral palsy, spina bifida and various other developmental disabilities. Earn service learning hours in a variety of ways, including serving on a committee, assisting with an event or fundraiser, coach bowling, baseball or basketball, hosting a Next Chapter Book Club, or by preparing stories for the monthly newsletter. If you would like to enhance the quality of life of persons with developmental disabilities, please contact the Foundation by calling 239-594-9007 or by emailing info@fddswfl.org.


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