Lionsʼ birthday bash p. 3 Research Days p. 2 ʻThe Inspector Generalʼ p. 7 The man behind the mic p. 12 April 6, 2017 Vol. 85, Issue 15
2 NEWS Research Days 2017 showcases student work
Courtesy of Shannon Wells
Senior Kelly Melton hangs her poster in the Guillot University Center April 17, 2016. Lisa Keys-Mathews, director of the Quality Enhancement Program, said she hopes to expand research opportunities to appeal to students who are intimidated by traditional research presentation. MONDAY SANDERSON Life Editor life@florala.net
Courtesy of Shannon Wells
Recent graduate Jordan Givens presents her 3 Minute Thesis April 7, 2015, in the Gulliot University Center Loft. This is an opportunity for students to have professionals critique their work, said Lisa Keys-Mathews, the director of the Quality Enhancement Program.
After months of hard work, students will have the opportunity to present their research at the 2017 Research Days April 10-12. The participants will display their posters in the Guillot University Center atrium. Oral presentations will take place in the Stone Lodge loft. The 3 Minute Thesis competition will take place in Norton Auditorium. The 3 Minute Thesis Competition is a way to present research in a short time to people who are not familiar with the topic. The Individual College Pre-Final Competitions for the 3 Minute Thesis Competition was April 4 in Norton Auditorium. Lisa Keys-Mathews, director of the Quality Enhancement Program, said this is an opportunity for students to have professionals critique their work. She said employers also appreciate job applicants with research experience. “Research Days is an opportunity for students to present their research that they could have been working on for a year or more,” Keys-Mathews said. “It’s for undergrad and graduate students, and they have the chance to present in forum to their colleagues.” There are three tiers students can
participate in. In tier one, students present a poster. In tier two, in addition to the poster there is a three minute speech. Participants in tier three present a 7 - 9 minute speech. Keys-Mathews said she hopes to expand research opportunities to appeal to students who are intimidated by traditional research presentation methods. The presentations will feature a variety of subjects. The students from one area will not present at one time. Danielowicz said she presented on learning styles. “After presenting a short presentation in my ED 292 class, (Assistant Secondary Education Professor Gary Padgett) pushed me to work with him on learning styles research and challenged me to participate in 3 minute thesis,” she said. “It was nerve wracking as I had never presented research before, but I received so much support, especially from the education department.” Danielowicz said she recommends people participate in future Research Days. “If you are considering participating in any part of Research Days, do it,” she said. “You won’t regret it. I learned that even if something seems overwhelming or difficult, I can accomplish it. I also learned that there is such a great community for support of research across the colleges.”
NEWS 3
Courtesy of the University of North Alabama Graphic Designers Jackie Willis and David San Miguel
Leo III and his sister Una lounge around in their habitat March 7. The two turned 14 years old November 2016. However, the university celebrates Leo III’s birthday in April because the first generation of the monarchy of UNA’s lions, Leo I, was born in April, said Anne Howard, appointed caretaker.
Community to celebrate Leo III and Una’s birthday JESSICA LIVINGSTON SGA Beat Writer jlivingston2@una.edu UNA’s prized mascots Leo III and Una will be celebrated for their 14th birthday April 12 at 10 a.m. at the George H. Carroll Lion Habitat. Leo III and his sister Una ranked No. 1 among the 25 Best Real Animal Mascots in College Football by totalprosports.com. The nationally ranked lions’ 14th birthday party is free to everyone, and guests will receive cookies and Coke products along with games for children and face painting. If it rains, the birthday party will be Tuesday, April 25 at 10 a.m. Judy Jackson, associate vice president of Advancement Services, said the lions will spend the day with children from Kilby Laboratory School, along with UNA students, faculty and members of the community. Junior Sarah Sparks said this event is a good opportunity for the community to join together and
celebrate the lions. Sparks has never attended the birthday party for the lions, but she plans to attend the party this year with her two-year-old daughter, she said. “She loves the lions,” Sparks said. “Any event where the kids have cake is going to be fun.” Leo III and Una turned 14 years old November 2016. However, the university celebrates Leo III’s birthday in April because the first generation of UNA’s lions, Leo I, was born in April, said Anne Howard, appointed caretaker. Junior Anna Adams said she would love to attend the birthday party for the lions. “I always go to the library and pass the lions on my way,” Adams said. “It’s great to have a day to just celebrate them.” Senior Ashleigh Shumake said the lions are an important part of the UNA community. “They are part of our history,” she said. Leo III and Una should live to be
20 years old, Howard said. “They are in extremely good health,” Howard said. “They eat food that is only made for lions. We clean out their den with cleaner that is safe, and they have check-ups every year.” She said she has cared for the lions since 2002. “I actually kept them with me for a little while because they had to be
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bottle fed,” Howard said. She said Leo III and Una are intelligent animals, and they deserve appreciation. Sophomore Danny Franks said he thinks the lions are the most important aspect of UNA’s campus. “Leo and Una should be celebrated two times every year,” Franks said. “They are what make this university so unique and awesome.”
Leo and Una should be celebrated two times every year. They are what make this university so unique and awesome.” Danny Franks| Sophomore
4 NEWS
ANDREA BELK | Staff Photographer
Department of Art administrative assistant Mathew Pereda smokes outside of the Art Building in the smoking area March 23. In the transition year, UNA created smoking areas for students and faculty, said David Shields, Vice President of Student Affairs.
Campus enforces smoke-free policy CIERA GOLLIVER Staff Writer cgolliver1@una.edu In fall 2016, students returning to campus found “no smoking” signs across campus. Despite some protest from students, UNA’s policy will apply to all of campus fall 2017 to make UNA one of the last universities in Alabama to go smoke free. The change in policy came after the UNA executive council brought a proposal to the board of trustees for a smoke-free campus. In March 2016, the board of trustees passed a resolution to change the university policy to a smoke-free campus effective fall 2017, said Vice President of Student Affairs David Shields. The policy applies to all UNA owned property, including East Campus, The Mane Room and Braly Stadium on game days. Shields said he is working with facilities to post signs on campus informing visitors UNA is a smokefree campus. This policy includes traditional cigarettes as well as e-cigarettes. “If you can’t do it on an airplane or in a movie theatre, you can’t do it on campus,” Shields said. The Board of Trustees is using the 2016-17 school year as a transition year to becoming smoke-free by introducing designated smoking areas. Shields said the Student
Government Association pushed for a transition year. SGA President Sarah Green said when SGA interviewed students, they said they wanted designated smoking areas permanently to fix the problem some have with smoking on campus. In the transition year, UNA made five smoking areas for students and faculty, Shields said. There are no current plans for UNA to keep the smoking areas. For this to happen, the board of trustees would have to pass a new policy, Shields said. The previous policy stated smoking was not allowed within 30 feet of a building entrance or walkway. Shields said this policy was difficult to enforce. The new policy is not just for students and faculty. Everyone on the UNA campus must abide by the rules, Shields said. Junior Alex Jones said UNA is being unfair to students who pay to come to the university. “We are grown adults,” Jones said. “Smoking isn’t illegal. We should be allowed to choose if we want to smoke or not.” Green said when students first heard of the change to smoking areas, SGA heard a lot of complaints from students who felt like the policy infringed on their rights. Since then, complaints are not as frequent. Shields said he hopes to see the same response to the no-smoking policy. He said he knows the next few
years will not be easy, but he hopes students and faculty will be receptive of the change. UNA is relying on all faculty, staff and students to enforce the policy, Shields said. UNA plans on taking a “soft approach” to enforcing the policy by educating students, but if students continually violate policy, UNA will refer the student to the code of conduct, Shields said. Shields said UNA has a faculty member researching smoking on campus. The university is currently not releasing the name of the faculty member researching the issue. Shields plans to use the research to help promote staff and students stopping smoking. Freshman Kat Hall said she does not feel smoking is a problem, but she understands why UNA made the policy change. UNA is offering programs about stopping smoking through university health services to encourage students and faculty to educate themselves on smoking, Shields said. Shields said he hopes one day it will be normal for UNA to be a smokefree campus. Shields said he thinks a smoke-free campus will mean an overall healthier campus with less class absences due to sickness. The official policy states the university will be smoke free. This is not the same thing as tobacco free,
Shields said. Shields said going tobacco free is a consideration the university faculty may look into once the UNA campus adjusts to the new smoking policy.
WHY THE BAN? Despite student opinions, UNA will follow suit of other Alabama universities and become a smoke-free campus fall 2017. The policy applies to all UNA owned property, including East Campus, The Mane Room and Braly Stadium.
NEWS 5
Dual bachelor’s, master’s program coming next fall CIERA GOLLIVER Staff Writer cgolliver1@una.edu UNA will join other top-ranked universities in fall 2017 as it unveils the latest program to strengthen higher education with the Accelerated Bachelor’s-Master’s Program. The program will allow students the chance to earn their master’s degree while completing their undergraduate degree, said Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs Joylaxmi Borah. “I am very excited because I am a big believer in higher education,” Borah said. “We want to give our students the maximum number of opportunities they would get if they went to any other university.” The 2017-18 school year will be a trial year. There are currently five programs planning to offer this option fall 2017. The programs are professional writing, English literature, geospatial science, health, physical education and recreation and master of business administration, Borah said. To get into the program, students apply though graduate admissions. Students must meet all requirements for graduate admission, such as test scores, GPA and recommendation letters. The
minimum GPA is 3.0, Borah said. Borah said this program is an opportunity for students to save time and money toward a higher degree. Students will take graduate level courses for an undergraduate price up to nine hours. Borah said students have the opportunity to complete their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years. It is possible for students to receive both degrees in four years with a full course load during fall, spring and summer. The program is aimed at academically strong students, but it is open to all students, Borah said. Once they receive admission to the program, students will receive an advisor in their specialty to help them keep on track for graduation, Borah said. Each department is working on its individual requirements to make the program work for its area. Borah said she hopes to have this information by the end of spring 2017 so the university can market the program. Freshman Karina Meza said this program will give UNA the chance to grow. “I think it will be nice for students to have something to look forward to at UNA,” Meza said. “I think this will really appeal to a lot of students.” Assistant English professor Kelly Latchaw said she was skeptical about
the program until she started designing the course of study for the English Department. Latchaw said the two English options will allow students the ability to explore specific areas they are interested in rather than hold them to a strict schedule. A group of professors will meet before the spring semester ends to review the other department’s plans and improve each other’s work. The individual departments will then release the curriculum to the public, Latchaw said. Other universities, such as the University of Alabama and the University of Alabama in Huntsville, offer this program, but Borah said
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these universities only offer to specific disciplines such as engineering and law. Borah said UNA hopes to open this program to all existing masters level programs at UNA. Sophomore Charles Lieb said he is excited for the opportunity to save time working toward an advanced degree. Academic Affair’s next plan is to market the program to students by creating a website and brochures, Borah said. Borah said students seem excited about the program. UNA has already had several students contact admissions requesting more information about the program.
We want to give our students the maximum number of opportunities they would get if they went to any other university. Joylaxmi Borah | Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs
First Amendment Awareness Month What freedoms will you give up for a free lunch?
Live Free or Eat Free - April 13 - 12:30 p.m. Communications Building Outdoor Event Area
Watch, listen, and get involved! UNA Earth Day Film Screenings April 18 – 6 p.m. Communications Building 131
“We will not walk in fear of one another.”
Good Night, and Good Luck. Screening and panel discussion April 27 – 6:00 p.m.
Communications Building 131
UNA Department of Communications
6 NEWS
Students campaign against sexual assault JESSICA LIVINGSTON SGA Beat Writer jlivingston2@una.edu
The Flor-Ala file photo
Students and faculty gather for pizza while participating in “It’s On Us” Nov. 9, 2015. Former President Barack Obama launched the campaign in 2014 to raise sexual assault awareness.
Students will gather together to pledge to recognize, identify and intervene in sexual assault situations and strive to create a campus free of sexual harassment April 6 at the Memorial Amphitheater. Student Government Association will partner with Title IX for the “It’s On Us” campaign. The event is from 2 – 4 p.m. Former President Barack Obama launched the “It’s On Us” campaign in 2014. “It’s On Us” asks everyone “to make a personal commitment to step off the sidelines and be part of the solution to campus sexual assault,” according to obamawhitehouse.archives.gov. Grace Williams, SGA University Council delegate, said since the campaign is in spring, students will receive “swag” items such as beach towels, and there will be food and music. Attendants will pledge “to recognize that non-consensual sex is sexual assault, to identify situations where sexual assault may occur, to intervene in situations where consent has not or cannot be given, to create an environment in which sexual assault is unacceptable and survivors are supported,” according to the “It’s on Us” website.
University Program Council Service Chair Rebecca Bush said there will be a chalkboard students can sign in addition to an electronic signature. SGA will display the chalkboard in the Guillot University Center near the Student Engagement Office as a reminder that it is up to society to pay attention to and look out for sexual harassment, Bush said. Senior Alisha Ricketts said everyone should be prepared to stand up for victims of sexual harassment. “I’ve always stood up to bullies, and that’s the way I see sexual harassment — as bullying,” Ricketts said. “I think it’s good to bring attention to these occurrences, and I hope that at the event they give points on how to go about intervening in these problems on campus.” Executive Director of “It’s On Us” campaign Anne Johnson encourages students who take the pledge to share by tweeting “Everyone has a role to play in stopping sexual assault. I took the pledge at itsonus.org. Join me! #ItsOnUs” Senior Kenson St. Remy said he believes students will benefit from participating in the campaign. “It really brings awareness to women and men,” Remy said. “It gives them a voice of inclusion and courage for them to be heard.” Students who cannot make the event can take the pledge online at itsonus.org/#pledge_open.
Color run prepares to raise school spirit TAYLOR SIMPSON Student Writer tsimpson4@una.edu Runners will shower in a gold and purple rain when the North Alabama Department of Athletics hosts the fourth annual 5K and 1-mile Color Run April 8 outside Flowers Hall. The 5K run will begin at 9 a.m. with the 1-mile run to follow at 9:15 a.m. The event will last until around 10:15 a.m. since there is no time limit, said Megan Lovelace, UNA Athletics Development Officer. Participants can register at the event. Registration fees are $30 for the 5K and $20 for the 1-mile run. Lovelace encourages participants to arrive 45 – 60 minutes before the run begins to allow time for parking and registration. The event is open to university students, faculty and staff, as well as the community, and will feature gold and purple colored powder. The powder is non-toxic and biodegradable, according to the athletics website. However, officials encourage participants with sensitive eyes to wear sunglasses or goggles. Staff recommends participants wear
white to the event so the colors stand out. The powder is not intended to stain, but event staff suggests everyone bring a change of clothes and towels for the ride home. The event will not have an award ceremony following the runs to encourage participants to enjoy running with friends, Lovelace said. “We started (the run) as a way to get the athletes and coaches involved and also as a family friendly, affordable event for the community members,” Lovelace said. The run’s path will start and end at Flowers Hall and go toward Wildwood Park. There are no major roads included in the path, Lovelace said. Junior Destiny Izzaguirre said she would like to run this year as she was not able to last year. “It seems like a fun way to show school spirit and get students excited about UNA,” Izzaguirre said. Lovelace said the number of participants has grown each year. “Last year, we had about 600 people participate, and if participation continues to grow like it has, we would expect more for this year’s turnout,” she said. Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Megan Lovelace at 256-765-4615.
Courtesy of Megan Lovelace
Volunteers toss powder at a runner in Color Run April 16, 2016. “(The run) seems like a fun way to show school spirit and get students excited about UNA,” said junior Destiny Izzaguirre.
LIFE 7
HILLARY TAYLOR | Staff Photographer
Senior Caitlynn Tomlinson rehearses her lines as a town squire in “The Inspector General” at the George S. Lindsey Theatre. “(The play is) a farce making fun of government in general and all of its obvious stereotypes, like being corrupt, untrustworthy and not very good at their jobs,” said senior Edwin Huertas, who plays the mayor.
Actors perform Russian, political comedy HILLARY TAYLOR
Entertainment Beat Writer
htaylor1@una.edu UNA’s Theatre Program will bring laughter and comedy to the George S. Lindsey Theatre with its presentation of Nikolai Gogol’s “The Inspector General” starting April 6. The story begins with the mayor of a rural town receiving word of a government inspector coming for an investigation. When a mysterious man named Khlestakov appears at an inn, the town attempts to hide all political corruption with bribes and deceit as hilarity ensues, not knowing that the man is not the anticipated inspector general. “It’s a farce making fun of government in general and all of its obvious stereotypes, like being corrupt, shady, untrustworthy and not very good at their jobs,” said senior Edwin Huertas, who plays the governor. The play pokes fun at the greed and self-absorption of every culture, said David Ruebhausen, associate professor of theatre and director of the play. “You can’t help but watch ‘The Inspector General’ and realize it doesn’t matter when or where it takes
place,” Ruebhausen said. “It could happen in any country at any time in any small city, and the politics (are) the same.” Huertas said the play presented a challenge for the actors and director in finding a way to translate some of the Russian sayings and jokes. “The translation does a fine job, but a lot of the language is cultural jokes that we would never hear,” he said. “So, the challenge is figuring out how we get the jokes to make sense and pronouncing the Russian names. This forces us to accept our characters’ lines, even if they make no sense.” Huertas said this role has the most lines he has ever had to learn. Sophomore Eric Bjork, who portrays the “greedy” Khlestakov, said performing in a comedy presents its own challenges. “There is a lot of physicality with these characters,” Bjork said. “Sometimes I’m having to jump, fall or hide in my suitcase, and these movements have to be done in a certain way to make the joke. With shows like this, it has to be wellrehearsed or someone could get hurt.” Despite the subject matter, Ruebhausen said the play is not meant to be more than a lighthearted comedy.
“Since the Greeks, social commentary has always been a part of comedy,” he said. “You’re supposed to watch these characters do bad things and think, ‘Hey, don’t do these bad things,’ but ‘The Inspector General’ is, first and foremost, entertainment.” The audience should be laughing at the characters, instead of with them, Huertas said. “The play shouldn’t be taken too seriously,” he said. “The audience should enjoy themselves.”
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Bjork said he hopes the audience has an entertaining experience. “A lot of art is controversial, but because of that people tend to forget to enjoy themselves,” Bjork said. “This play is ridiculous and an all-around good time, and we just want people to have fun.” Performances will be April 6 - 8 and 11 - 12 at 7:30 p.m. and April 9 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $5 for UNA students, faculty, staff and alumni.
You’re supposed to watch these characters do bad things and think, ‘Hey, don’t do these bad things,’ but ‘The Inspector General’ is, first and foremost, entertainment.” David Ruebhausen | Associate Professor of Theatre
8 LIFE
Club brings Art Walk to amphitheater TYLER HARGETT Associate Life Editor life@florala.net “I feel like most of the campus doesn’t realize we have an art department, let alone an art club.” Junior Michael Meigs, president of the Art Club, and other members will host the Art Walk, a display of work from students to raise awareness of the club and the Department of Art April 13. The artwork will be on display from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Memorial Amphitheater or in the Guillot University Center in case of rain. Every piece will have the artist’s name on it, and some may have a title or price if the artists wants to sell their work. Members from the Art Club will be available to answer questions. The walk is free to “anyone who walks by” and can include any form of art, including sculpture, ceramic, painting and photography. The event will also have free shirts
that feature senior Katie White’s winning design from a contest of the department. Senior Hannah Balentine, an art student, said the walk helps UNA art students meet up and get to see each other’s work. “Even though we’re all in the same building, we really don’t get to see each other’s work unless we personally go and talk to (each other),” Balentine said. “So, this is something (where) we can all get together and have a good time.” Senior Jessica Pajaron, a club member, said having art for sale at the walk helps the department, as a portion of the art students’ sales goes back to the department. “It helps keep our department funded for things like visiting artists, materials or anything we could possibly need in the future,” Pajaron said. Pajaron will submit some of her ceramics work, which will also be for sale. Balentine said the walk will
hopefully show the rest of campus the art students are producing great work. “Art is a really important part of our culture and our life today, and we want other people to recognize that (students in the department) are making amazing work,” she said. Balentine will have some of her photos on display. Meigs, who will also submit art, encourages all students to view the walk to not only support the Art Club
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but also learn about and appreciate different forms of art. “Students who aren’t involved in art or really know nothing about it will still find joy in it,” Meigs said. The department will accept submissions until April 10. For more information, visit the Art Club’s Facebook page, ARTuna, or contact Administrative Assistant Mathew Pereda at 256-765-4384. Editor’s Note: Michael Meigs is a graphic designer for The Flor-Ala.
Students who aren’t involved in art or really know nothing about it will still find joy in it. Michael Meigs | Art Club President
Michael Meigs| Graphic Designer
LIFE 9
‘Power Rangers’ brings new twists to classic show
TYLER HARGETT Associate Life Editor life@florala.net
MELANIE HODGES | Chief Photographer
Heidi and alumnus Dillon Hodges browse through clothes on opening day, March 31, at Southern Trash. The store offers restored items from various thrift stores.
Southern Trash holds forgotten treasures HANNAH ZIMMER Associate Life Editor life@florala.net People in the Shoals area can now buy “retro, reclaimed and reinvented fashion” at the clothing store Southern Trash on Wood Avenue after its opening day March 31. UNA graduate and Muscle Shoals native Milly Baine is the owner of Southern Trash. Although Southern Trash has functioned online before becoming a physical store, the brand did not carry men’s clothing until now. “There aren’t a lot of clothing shops for men to choose from, and I thought I could help fill that void,” she said. “I have a lot of help from my boyfriend, Austin Brent, in that department.” Baine said the clothing at Southern Trash will be any clothing that has been part of the counterculture over the past 50 years. “(Southern Trash clothing) has a Janice Joplin vibe,” Baine said. “Also, like an old man at a country gas station, the old biker dude, that’s my aesthetic.” Potential customers can expect clothing that promotes individuality, according to Southern Trash’s Facebook page. “I want people to feel original,” Baine said. “It’s not like going to Forever 21 or Urban Outfitters. When you buy vintage,
you are wearing something maybe only a few other people have in the world.” Freshman Jean An said the name drew her in. “My first thought when I heard the name was, ‘Does that mean their clothes are rubbish?” she said. “I’ve never heard of the store, but I want to know more about Southern Trash now.” The original name for the store was Trash Vintage, Baine said. “It was really cool, but I love the South,” she said. “I believe it gets a bad reputation. I love how I can strike up a conversation with someone in a grocery store and meet so many friendly people. I wanted to have that message in my brand.” Baine said she did not always want to open a clothing store.
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“I worked at My Favorite things in downtown Florence, and my desire to have my own store came from watching (My Favorite Things store owner) Patty Clark have her own store and run it her way,” Baine said. In contrast, Baine said she knew she wanted to be self-employed when she became an adult. “I’ve always wanted to work for myself,” Baine said. “I’ve never liked the idea of working for someone else to make money. It gives me the freedom to do what I want, but there are more responsibilities involved.” With the grand opening of Southern Trash, Baine will have the opportunity to own her own business, which she said she has wanted to do since she was a teenager.
When you buy vintage, you are wearing something maybe only a few other people have in the world. Milly Baine | Owner of Southern Trash
When reviewing an adaptation of a show, it can go one of two ways: as an evaluation of how it is as a movie or a fan’s comparison to the source material. I am somewhere in between. Following the premise of the original series, the film centers on five teenagers — Jason, Kimberly, Billy, Trini and Zack — who must protect the world from evil sorceress Rita Repulsa by transforming into armored warriors called Power Rangers. However, going along with the modern trend of darker and more realistic superhero reboots, the producers definitely made some changes. Two of the biggest changes that fans have talked about are the redesigns of the suits and the new Repulsa. The suits are cool, even though people don’t see them until the end. However, a consistent theme in the show was that a team of Rangers always had a morphing sequence. In this case, the suits ooze out of their backs, like Venom from Spider-Man, all at the same time. The fans deserve a modern re-imagining of the sequence. As for Repulsa, the new appearance goes along with her darker backstory. The problem, however, is that her master plan is silly. She steals gold to build a giant monster, Goldar, that will dig up the planet-destroying Zeo Crystal. When a darker adaptation of a campy series has a main villain whose focus is collecting gold and getting uncomfortably close to people, it begs the question: are we supposed to take her seriously? Also, in the show, Goldar was one of Repulsa’s right-hand monsters, with his own personality and a recurring presence. Now, he basically serves as a giant shovel. This time, the Rangers are all delinquents, matching the original series’ description of “teenagers with attitude.” Although, Billy was an exception. His only reason for being in detention was because his locker exploded. To read more about the personalities of the power rangers, visit florala.net.
10 SPORTS Scoreboard Braly causes stir before Division I move
March 24 - April 2 Softball
March 25-26 at Delta St. Win 3-2, Win 7-0 Win 5-1 April 1-2 vs. UAH Loss 13-6, Loss 10-3 Win 3-2
Baseball
March 25-26 at Delta St. Loss 8-4, Loss 18-10 Loss 6-2 March 28 vs. Miles Win 4-0, Win 13-2 April 1-2 vs. UAH Win 12-2, Loss 4-2 Win 8-7
Women’s Tennis March 24 vs. Valdosta St. Loss 9-0 March 25 vs. Florida Tech Win 5-4 March 27 at West Florida Loss 8-1
Men’s Tennis
March 24 vs. Valdosta St. Loss 6-3 March 25 vs. Florida Tech Win 5-4 March 27 at West Florida Loss 9-0 Games continued at roarlions.com
JACOB COLE Associate Sports Editor sports@florala.net North Alabama football will make the move to Division I Football Championship Series in 2018, and Braly Stadium sits in a controversial state. Florence Middle School, located behind Braly Stadium’s home bleachers, has been under turmoil for trying to expand near Braly Stadium. UNA officials and the Florence Board of Education came to an agreement to end the conflict. The agreement will run from 2017 to 2027, but it also has the options to add two years to the mediation agreement. The agreement will add 21 parking spaces behind the middle school for UNA parking. Both parties will split the cost of the construction for the parking spots. Both parties will also split the operational costs of Braly Stadium throughout the 10-year agreement. Along with the items officials require, UNA also set language in the mediation agreement to upgrade aesthetics to improve Braly Stadium. The stadium is already Division I ready. There are no needs for Braly Stadium, but there are plenty of wants for UNA, Linder said. North Alabama will have the option to build decks for seating and hospitality in the south end zone. The decks would be accessible for both party’s events, and the decks will remain team neutral, according to the mediation agreement. All parts of the stadium are currently blue, and all blue areas can be painted in the near future with both parties having to split the cost for the painting. UNA will have the ability to
MELANIE HODGES | Chief Photographer
North Alabama cheerleaders fire up the crowd at Braly Stadium during a football game against West Florida Nov. 5, 2016. Braly Stadium has been entangled in controversy between Florence City Schools and the university. sell naming rights to any unnamed portion of the field including the press box, field house and other aspects. Both parties will split refurbishment of the existing steps from the field adjacent to the south end zone. UNA has the right to park on the field. UNA also has the option to install a parking surface to have 75 parking spots. The installation of the parking surface will have to allow enough
space for a 100-yard regulation practice field. North Alabama Athletic Director Mark Linder was cautious about Braly Stadium’s future. “We will have to wait and see what the impact will be on the use of the stadium,” Linder said. “We will attempt to make it a great situation, but there are still many unknowns.” To continue reading about Braly Stadium’s future go to florala.net.
Football adds defensive transfers during spring ANDREW FULMER Sports Editor sports@florala.net Recruiting is the lifeblood for a football team’s continued success, but the signing process does not necessarily end on National Signing Day in February. This is especially true for a Division II school like North Alabama. The Lions recently added two transfers to bolster a defense that lost numerous starters from last season in defensive lineman Maurice Burton Jr. and safety Chris Johnson. Lions head coach Chris Willis said one of the key factors that sold the two was the culture in Florence. “Some people don’t realize what we have here in Florence,” he said. “Kids come up to me and say, ‘Man coach, I didn’t know there were hotels, movie
theaters, waterfronts and a music district.’” Burton comes to the Lions after spending his freshman and sophomore seasons at Scottsdale Community College in Arizona, where he was a National Junior College Athletic Association All-American in 2016. Burton also earned a spot on the all conference team in the Arizona Community College Athletic Conference. While at SCC, Burton attracted the attention of several schools, including offers from Arizona State and AlabamaBirmingham en route to a threestar rating from recruiting services Scout.com and 247sports. Before attending SCC, Burton was an all-state selection in Illinois at Simeon Career Academy in Chicago where he was in the same class as Milwaukee Bucks forward Jabari
Parker. Johnson is another transfer that could have an impact for UNA in 2017. A Birmingham native, Johnson comes to Florence from the University of Albany where he played from 2014-15 where he appeared in 23 games with six starts. In high school, Johnson was a threeyear letterman at Oak Mountain High School where he earned All-Shelby County honors. Johnson joins a handful of other former Division I players at a time where the program will undergo its own transfer to the higher level and could provide a solid foundation for other players when the time comes. Willis said the team would not stop with the signing of Burton and Johnson. The Lions have several transfer prospects on their radar, though Willis would not disclose any names.
SPORTS 11 Pitcher looks to live up to family legacy NICK GRIFFIN Baseball Beat Writer ngriffin@una.edu The North Alabama baseball team has had success on the field so far this season. The Lions have been productive on offense and defense,
but the pitching staff has been UNA’s strongest unit so far. The starters like junior Tyler Joyner and senior Devan Traglia have been the most prominent contributors on the mound this season, but the bullpen has been effective as well, including true freshman left-hander
Photo courtesy of Sports Information
North Alabama freshman pitcher Bryant Claunch follows through on a pitch against Lemoyne-Owen Feb. 15 in Florence. Claunch follows in the footsteps of his brother, Tyler, who was also a pitcher for the Lions from 2012-15.
Bryant Claunch. Claunch is a local product, having assisted the Florence High School Falcons in three consecutive playoff appearances from 2014-16. He is an exercise science major at UNA and wants to use his education to improve people’s lives. “I’m looking to go into physical therapy just to help people,” Claunch said. “I had arm problems so, I’d like to be able to help people the way I was helped.” Claunch’s older brother, Brantley, was a four-year contributing pitcher at UNA with his final two years as the Lions’ main starter, so UNA was always a top option when it came time to decide where to play ball in college, Claunch said. “It was always on my mind,” Claunch said. “You never know if you’re going to get the opportunity to play somewhere. I definitely wanted to play here if I could. My brother went here and all that, so it was definitely an option if I proved I was good enough.” The younger Claunch has made one start this season for UNA against Lemoyne-Owen. He got the win after throwing five innings, giving up no runs on just two hits with six strikeouts. The freshman lefty said he is pleased with where he is in his development so far and appreciates
the skill of the hitters he faces at the college level. “I’ve got a ways to go but I like where I am right now,” Claunch said. “You always have stuff to improve on but so far I’ve been comfortable. These hitters are more patient, they know how to capitalize on mistakes, and that’s not always the case in high school.” UNA head coach Mike Keehn said he is satisfied with where the freshman is in his development. “I think he made a lot of jumps from the fall to the spring,” Keehn said. “It’s one of those processes that all the guys do, but it’s about continuing every day doing what you need to do to get better, and I think he really bought into that over the break.” Keehn said his assistants saw potential in Claunch despite some of his previous injuries. “We felt he had the potential to throw strikes, and he pitched quite a bit when he was younger,” Keehn said. “He just had a few arm problems toward the end of his year. He has good size, and we felt that he was a guy that could continue to progress in college and start throwing a little harder and be very ‘pitchable’ in the future.” UNA baseball will be back in action April 8-9 when it travels to Gulf South Conference foe Mississippi College. The Lions will be back home April 11 against Montevallo.
12 SPORTS
Photo courtesy of Sports Information
North Alabama public address announcer Jerome Gafford (center) calls the UNA basketball games versus Mississippi College Jan. 26 at Flowers Hall. Gafford serves as the university’s primary PA announcer as well as being an assistant professor of marketing at the university.
Public address announcer provides voice for athletics ANDREW FULMER Sports Editor sports@florala.net When attending a sporting event, there are several factors that affect the atmosphere of the venue. Whether it is the magnitude of the game or the score of the game, the overall mood of the spectators can change in an instant. The public address announcer has the responsibility to be the “maestro” of the atmosphere, in addition to the obvious informative source most patrons will recognize. Jerome Gafford, North Alabama’s primary PA announcer for football, basketball, volleyball, as well as graduation ceremonies, said playing “maestro” is one of the many rewards of his job.
“It’s really fun to follow these kids when they first get here as freshman to calling their name in Flowers Hall on graduation day,” he said. Gafford said he loves the energy and excitement that comes with his job, but admits it can be a tough gig. Gafford said he has to do numerous preparations for production of each game. Also, he has to queue the paid corporate announcements and juggle that with any special promotions the athletic department may have. Gafford first began PA work in the area in the late 2000s when Florence High School asked him to announce football games. Officials from UNA first noticed his talents there. “Jerome does a terrific job,” said UNA Director of Athletics Mark Linder. “His voice, energy and professionalism is top notch. I
think he adds a lot to our game day atmosphere.” Gafford grew up in Florence and first attended UNA after graduating from Bradshaw High School in 1980. He studied at UNA for three semesters before he left to work on the road for a number of music acts across the South. “I did work for rock n’ roll bands for about 10 years,” Gafford said. “I worked with several different groups in several different kinds of music. I worked with acts like George Jones, Lee Greenwood, Jimmy Buffett and the band Alabama.” Gafford returned to Florence in the late 1990s and worked in sales for a few years before deciding to finish his degree at UNA. “My parents needed me to make money during my first go around at UNA, so school kind of took a
backseat,” Gafford said. “But when I returned to the university in 2002, my focus was a little different. I was married with kids, so I knew I had to do what I had to do to provide for my family.” Gafford graduated in 2005 with a master’s degree in marketing. In 2007, after noticing several professors were retiring, he applied for an assistant professor position in the UNA College of Business where he has been a marketing instructor ever since. When UNA makes the jump to Division I in 2018, Gafford said it would be as if he got an unexpected promotion. “The move is very exciting from a PA standpoint,” he said. “There’s going to be more talent coming in, and that will bring more energy into the stands. That will make this job a lot more fun.”
OPINION 13
Experience outweighs college grades EDITOR-IN-CHIEF JASMINE FLEMING MANAGING EDITOR MIKE EZEKIEL NEWS EDITOR BREANNA LITTRELL LIFE EDITOR MONDAY SANDERSON ASSOCIATE LIFE EDITORS TYLER HARGETT HANNAH ZIMMER SPORTS EDITOR ANDREW FULMER ASSOCIATE SPORTS EDITOR JACOB COLE SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR MADI WINKLER JUNIOR SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR ASHLEE CARTER BUSINESS MANAGER KARA DUCKETT CIRCULATION MANAGER ALLEN CHILDERS GRAPHIC DESIGNERS MICHAEL MEIGS DAVID SAN MIGUEL JACKIE WILLIS JUNIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS DYLAN BAKER KENDALL BROWN CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER MELANIE HODGES STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS ANDREA BELK HILLARY TAYLOR VIDEOGRAPHER SIERRA HILL ADVISER SCOTT MORRIS COVER PHOTO BY THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH ALABAMA
The Flor-Ala is published biweekly on Thursdays at 111 locations on campus and off.
Corrections The staff strives to maintain the integrity of The Flor-Ala through accurate and honest reporting. To report an error, call 256-765-4364 or email editor@florala.net.
MADI WINKLER Social Media Coordinator online@florala.net For years, the teachers at my small-town high school told my fellow classmates and me our grades were the determining factors for our futures. Though they meant well, it appears some of our high school teachers were wrong. Grades held a lot of significance as I entered college. I thought the only way to succeed was to maintain my 4.0 in hopes of getting a job one day. Little did I know, grades actually were not as crucial as my classmates and I believed. There was another factor that would soon determine our career paths. That factor, as it turns out, is experience, and internships in college can provide students with
opportunities to excel. Employers put more weight into internships, employment during college and volunteer experience as opposed to college GPA, according to a study from The Chronicle of Higher Education. The study, which allocated 100 points to eight categories, gave the four experience-oriented categories 66 total points, with the other 34 going to academics. Internships received the highest allocation with 23 points, while GPA received eight. The College of Arts and Sciences at UNA requires mass communications majors like myself to take at least one credit hour dedicated to an internship, and with good reason. This hands-on participation in the field is invaluable. First, interns have the opportunity to learn more about their field of interest outside of the classroom. Students have the chance to be hands-on and use the concepts they learn in the classroom through real-life situations. There is a huge contrast in the classroom and work environment, according to U.S. News & World Report. In addition to the work experience and application of new ideas, students can broaden their networks and gain recommendations, which will definitely enhance their career search after college. So, it appears experience replaced test scores. A college GPA does not
matter upon graduation, and a degree does not guarantee a job, according to a recent study by the Teachers College Record. The study goes on to prove college institutions award higher grades than students earn, which some also call “grade inflation.” The study also showed the network and work experience more important than GPA. Employers are more likely to hire a candidate with several internships under their belt and multiple people who can vouch for their abilities. Please do not read this opinionbased article then cease all studying efforts. It’s important to consider that future employers will be impressed to see their potential new hire maintained decent grades, all while working parttime or full-time as a college student. Continue to strive for high grades, but do not fear this experience component. Students looking for internships should compete here in the Shoals for them and even look out of town for unpaid internships by visiting the UNA Career Center. A prime opportunity will arise for students to find potential internships April 7 - 13 at the College of Arts and Sciences Career Week 2017. I encourage students to use similar opportunities. Any experience in the desired field of study can be valuable experience.
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The Flor-Ala, UNA Box 5300 Florence, AL 35632 Letters must include name and telephone number for verification. Please limit letters to 400 words. The editor reserves the right to edit or refuse to publish a letter.
Correction In the March 23 issue, an article titled “Sailour weathers storms despite name changes” should have listed “sailour.co” as the correct web address. The photo for the story is also courtesy of Anna Beahm. Also, in the article “Junior with musical history continues her passion,” Emerson ʻEmmieʼ Chambersʼ correct affiliation is “Alpha Delta Pi.” To view the corrected versions of these stories, visit florala.net.
14 PHOTOS
Springing
Forward
Frolicking around Students socialize near the Harrison Plaza fountain March 28 during Spring Break. With spring weather approaching the Florence community, UNA’s campus offers a number of places to take a study break and enjoy the climate. ANDREA BELK Staff Photographer abelk@una.edu Though it seemed winter would stay forever, spring has come to surprise for some of us here in Florence. Less than a month ago, students witnessed a winter wonderland on campus as snow covered the ground — in the middle of March. But now, students are happier than ever to greet these clear and
joyous days. What better way to enjoy this weather than to get outside and bask in the warmth? One of the easiest ways to accomplish this is to find a nice place on campus to unwind. If a student is more of the quiet type, he or she may find grabbing a blanket and heading over to Wesleyan Hall is a great place to study, especially when crunch time approaches and students have no choice but to study after a long day of classes. Sitting under the shady trees can be a relaxing way to
Spring reading Senior Hollie Carr reads a book under a shade tree in front of Wesleyan Hall. Students who enjoy nature should try laying down a blanket and studying outside on campus.
learn. If someone is more of the social butterfly, then going to the fountain at Harrison Plaza is an amazing place to hang out and meet new people. The fountain is usually buzzing with not only students, but also people from the community walking their dogs. For dog lovers, the opportunity to pet dogs is a welcomed treat. For people that can’t sit still, head over to the outdoor adventure center. The OAC is always trying to
get students to be active and enjoy the great outdoors. For example, during spring break, the OAC took a group of students to venture out of their comfort zones and conquer the Pinhoti National Recreation Trail. The OAC also has future events relating to exploring nature, so head over to www.una.orgsync.com/org/ oac/home/ to find out what is in store. UNA has a number of resources for its students, so utilize them and soak in the new spring weather.
“Splish-splash” Senior Richard Crowder (left) and junior Anthony Samuel participate in a water war at the Harrison Plaza fountain. Spring presents opportunities for students to enjoy campus.
CALENDAR 15 Thurs., April 6 What: SGA Senate Meeting When: 3:30 p.m. Where: Office of Student Engagement What: “It’s On Us” campaign When: 2 p.m. Where: Memorial Amphitheater What: International Tea: South Korea When: 3 p.m. Where: Stone Lodge, Upper Level What: “The Inspector General” When: 7:30 p.m. Where: George S. Lindsey Theatre What: Senior recital: Evan Hammond, baritone When: 7:30 p.m. Where: Music Building Recital Hall
The Flor-Ala file photo
Students take the pledge against sexual assault. The “It’s On Us” campaign takes place Thursday, April 6, at 2 p.m. at the Memorial Amphitheater.
Fri., April 7
Mon., April 10
What: “The Inspector General” When: 7:30 p.m. Where: George S. Lindsey Theatre
What: DI Open Conversation with Community When: 2:30 p.m. Where: GUC Performance Center
Sat., April 8 What: UNA Color Run When: 9 a.m. Where: Flowers Hall What: OAC Johnson’s Cave Trip When: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Where: Meet at the OAC What: “The Inspector General” When: 7:30 p.m. Where: George S. Lindsey Theatre
Sun., April 9 What: Senior recital, Ethan Franks, clarinet When: 1:30 p.m. Where: Norton Auditorium What: “The Inspector General” When: 2 p.m. Where: George S. Lindsey Theatre What: The Flor-Ala writer’s meeting When: 4 p.m. Where: Student Publications Building What: Senior recitals: Jonathan Farley, trumpet, and Devin Underwood, trumpet When: 5:30 p.m. Where: Music Building Recital Hall
What: UPC Meeting When: 3:30 p.m. Where: Office of Student Engagement
Tues., April 11 What: Baseball v. Montevallo When: 5 p.m. Where: Mike Lane Field What: Junior recital: Maria Sullivan, soprano When: 5:30 p.m. Where: Music Building Recital Hall What: OAC Full Moon Staff Hunt When: 6 - 8 p.m. Where: OAC What: UNA Contemporary Ensemble Recital When: 7:30 p.m. Where: Music Building Recital Hall What: “The Inspector General” When: 7:30 p.m. Where: George S. Lindsey Theatre
Wed., April 12 What: Passport to the World When: 10 a.m. Where: Memorial Amphitheater
What: Departmental Recital When: Noon Where: Music Building Recital Hall What: “The Inspector General” When: 7:30 p.m. Where: George S. Lindsey Theatre
Thurs., April 13 What: Art Walk When: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Where: Memorial Amphitheater What: Junior recital, Kabrina Isabelle, soprano When: 5:30 p.m. Where: Music Building Recital Hall What: Black Student Alliance Fashion Show When: 6 p.m. Where: GUC Performance Center What: Senior recital: Richard Crowder, percussion When: 7:30 p.m. Where: Music Building Band Room
Fri., April 14 Good Friday: University closed
Sat., April 15 Easter Weekend: University closed
Sun., April 16 Easter: University closed
Mon., April 17 What: Puppies & Popsicles When: 1 - 4 p.m. Where: Memorial Amphitheater What: SGA Meeting When: 3:30 p.m. Where: Office of Student Engagement
Tues., April 18 What: Softball v. Oakwood When: 2, 4 p.m. Where: UNA Softball Complex What: Jone Deeds/Lynne Burris Butler Visiting Artist Series When: 6 - 7:30 p.m. Where: GUC Loft What: Bike Maintenance 101 When: 6 - 8 p.m. Where: The OAC What: UPC Movie Night: Pete’s Dragon When: 6 p.m. Where: Memorial Amphitheater What: Senior recital: Emily Russell, trumpet, and junior recital Lauren Risher, tuba When: 7:30 p.m. Where: Music Building Recital Hall
Wed., April 20 What: Baseball v. Alabama A&M When: 5 p.m. Where: Mike Lane Field
16 SOCIAL MEDIA OF THE WEEK