April 16 Issue

Kickboxing page 4B April 16, 2015

Volume 83, Issue 29

www.Flor rAl Ala a..net www.FlorAla.net

Student newspaper of the University of North Alabama

SGA

”

ALABAMAʼS UNIVERSITIES CHANGE LIVES, AND THEY ARE WORTH SUPPORTING.

GORDON STONE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR HIGHER EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP photo by MEIYAN SONG I Student Photographer

Students rally for greater funding for Alabama’s public universities at the Higher Education Day rally in Montgomery April 9. The annual event includes a parade to the state capitol building. SGA provides transportation for students who attend the event each year.

Students demand more funding from state education budget KRISTEN GOODE

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The streets of Montgomery roared with the sound of college students chanting “one-third, one-third, one-third” during Higher Education Day April 9.

“One-third” stands for the portion of the state education budget students from Alabama’s public universities demand from the legislature.

INSIDE

this week’s paper

Alabama is one of two states operating with two budgets: one for education and one for all other expenses. Those at the rally asked legislators to give higher education one-third of the education budget and K-12 two-thirds.

“We support our K-12 schools,” said Gordon Stone, executive director of Higher Education Partnership. “We just want our one-third.”

Thirty-nine UNA students

NEWS . . . . . . . . 2A PHOTO ESSAY . . . 4A VIEWPOINTS . . . . 7A

and hundreds of others from around Alabama attended the Higher Education Day rally, which took place on the front steps of the legislative building while lawmakers inside worked to balance the state budget.

Stone said the rally had three purposes.

“First, we are going to say ‘no’ when it comes to taking money from the education fund,” Stone said. “We’re going to say ‘yes’ when it comes to

SPORTS . . . . . . . 1B LIFE . . . . . . . . . 5B EXTRA . . . . . . . . 8B

investing in universities.”

He said for every $1,000 invested in higher education, Alabama’s overall income increases by $8.7 million.

“Alabama’s universities change lives, and they are worth supporting,” he said.

Senior Zhenying Zhai said she was impressed by how passionate students at the rally were about the budget.

She said everyone was active and engaged in the rally,

which was like nothing she had ever seen before.

Stone told students the quest for greater funding cannot stop when the rally ends.

“We must fight it with a combined voice that tells our story, and that story represents you,” he said, challenging students to contact their legislators about increasing funding.

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SUGAR RUSH........6B

Please recycle your paper.

2A NEWS

April 16, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

ADMINISTRATION

photo courtesy of Shannon Wells

Former UNA Police Chief Bob Pastula explains UNA’s emergency preparedness center to geography students in April 2013. Pastula resigned Dec. 31, 2014 .

Shields: Search for police chief reaches second phase ASHLEY REMKUS

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The group tasked with finding a new police chief for UNA could have a tough time making a decision.

That is thanks to the large number of applicants and the “outstanding qualities” they bring to the table, officials said.

“I’ve looked at the applicants, and we have some extremely talented people,” said Vice President for Student Affairs

David Shields. “I’m pleased with the pool we have. It’s a very strong pool of people from a variety of backgrounds.”

The search committee, which includes students, faculty, staff and community members, has reviewed roughly 40 applications for the position and narrowed the pool to 10.

“There could have been more applicants who didn’t make it past our criteria levels,” Shields said. “That shows the amount of interest people had

in the university.”

Officials look to fill the position left vacant when Bob Pastula retired at the end of 2014.

The search committee is wrapping up the next phase of the process this week by conducting phone interviews with the 10 finalists.

While the initial candidate evaluations look primarily at job qualifications, phone interviews examine the candidates’ individual talents, Shields said.

“We’re looking for those who have the skill sets that we think will work here, and we don’t know what talents and skills are out there until we see the pool,” he said. “What these interviews now do is see who could move to the next level.”

Once phone interviews are completed, the committee chairman, Francis Koti, Chair of the Geography Department, will work with Shields to choose three to five candidates to bring to campus.

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MAN ON THE STREET

Students respond: What are the qualities you expect UNAʼs next police ” chief to possess?

SOMEONE WHO IS NOT AFRAID TO DO WHAT IS

JORDAN CAMPBELL

CAITLYNN TOMLINSON

SENIOR

FRESHMAN

information compiled by ANNA BROWN I Staff Writer photos by ASHLEY REMKUS I News Editor

”

I THINK ITʼS IMPORTANT FOR HIM TO

”

”

FOR A UNIVERSITY, WE NEED SOMEONE WHO IS FRIENDLY. ITʼS IMPORTANT THAT HE UNDERSTANDS THAT WEʼRE STILL LEARNING.

”

RIGHT.

”

GENERATION AND HAVE KNOWLEDGE OF THIS AREA.

I THINK ITʼS IMPORTANT THAT WE HAVE ONE THAT ENJOYS HIS JOB. IF HE DOESNʼT LIKE HIS JOB, THATʼS GOING TO TRICKLE DOWN ON US.”

JAMES MCKEE

JAVA MOODY

SARAH VAUGHN

MADASON MCCURDY

SOPHOMORE

SOPHOMORE

SOPHOMORE

SENIOR

HAVE THE ABILITY TO WORK WITH THE YOUNGER

I THINK HE SHOULD BE A GOOD LISTENER, BE UNDERSTANDING AND KINDHEARTED.

HONESTY IS IMPORTANT. WE NEED

RESPECT FOR ALL STUDENTS IS IMPORTANT.

SOMETIMES PEOPLE IN AUTHORITY TAKE IT TO ANOTHER LEVEL.

NEWS 3A

April 16, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

FACULTY

Baileyʼs retirement prompts search for nursing dean ASHLEY REMKUS/EMILY KAZUNGU 6M_[ -LQ\WZ ;\INN ?ZQ\MZ VM_[(NTWZITI VM\

“All good things must come to an end, including a treasured career.”

Dean of the College of Nursing Birdie Bailey said that phrase is what she thinks of as her retirement nears.

After more than 21 years as dean and 14 years as a nursing professor at UNA, Bailey will say goodbye June 1.

“My best memory was when every single nursing student that graduated made 100 percent on the national council and licensing exam,” Bailey said, her face beaming. “Because you really want the best outcome for the students, when you see their success, that’s what makes you see that you’ve done the best.”

She said the success students have experienced during her tenure as dean can be attributed to the College of Nursing’s team effort by faculty, staff and students.

Junior Marilla Duncan described Bailey as “kind” and “honest.”

“She would do anything for the students of nursing,” Duncan said. “(She) puts the school of nursing first and makes sure the integrity of the nursing school is intact.”

Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Carmen Burkhalter, who chairs the committee charged with finding Bailey’s replacement, said the task will not come without difficulty.

“Dr. Bailey has left an incredible

legacy of growth and programs of excellence,” Burkhalter said. “So it is very important to the faculty in the College of Nursing that we maintain that level of excellence.”

The 10-member committee of nursing faculty and community members has been reviewing applications for one month, and although the number of applicants is not as high as officials “normally expect” during that time, the applicants are “strong candidates,” Burkhalter said.

Officials said the committee will review applications for the position within the next few weeks and if any applicants stand out as obvious choices for the position, on-campus interviews will be scheduled.

Burkhalter said Skype interviews will help the committee determine who those applicants are and choose three finalists.

“When we bring them to campus, we will make sure they meet with as many of the constituencies as possible: the president, vice presidents, academic deans, department chairs and faculty,” she said. “We will also have an open meeting for students.”

Junior nursing student Dakota Doss said the new dean should serve as an advocate for students by showing honesty, trustworthiness and integrity.

Nursing student Austin Fuller said he would add having a good work ethic to that list of qualities.

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photo courtesy of Shannon Wells

Dean of the College of Nursing Birdie Bailey speaks to guests at the Project Open Scholarship Program during 2013. Bailey will retire effective June 1, prompting a search for a new dean.

RECREATION

Eubanks: Pool will reopen; student use must increase ASHLEY REMKUS/SHAUN SWINEHART 6M_[ -LQ\WZ ;\]LMV\ ?ZQ\MZ VM_[(NTWZITI VM\

The Flowers Hall swimming pool is set to open for student recreational use during the fall 2015 semester as a result of SGA efforts.

Student Recreation Center officials said low student use of the pool led to its closing several years ago.

SGA requests prompted the pool’s reopening about two years ago. But, with only a “handful of people” using it, SRC Director Jim Eubanks said student fee

money was not being spent wisely.

“When we tried reopening the pool a couple of years ago, student use for the first couple of weeks was great,” Eubanks said. “After that, it was right back to nobody using it. We might only have one person in there at a time.”

photo by SHAY REDD I Student Photographer

Students play kayak polo in the Flowers Hall swimming pool Jan. 22. The pool is currently only open for planned group events, but SRC Director Jim Eubanks said the pool will be open for students to swim beginning fall 2015.

SGA President KeKoria Greer said the organization asked the pool be reopened because students said it is something they want to utilize.

“As the student representatives, we took the concerns students brought to us to Mr. Eubanks because this is something the students said they really wanted,” Greer said. “This is something we looked into, and now we are working with (Eubanks) on it.”

The $10 per-credit-hour Recreational Facility Fee serves as the SRC’s primary funding source.

Eubanks said that means he has to make “tough decisions” about how he will spend the money, which pays everything from the center’s electricity bill to the student workers and equipment purchases.

Expenses associated with reopening the pool include hiring lifeguards, who make $10.50 per hour, and paying someone $7.25 per hour to check student IDs, Eubanks said.

He said hours for the fall semester will likely be held in the evening and last between two and four hours.

Editor’s note: To read the rest of this story, visit www.florala.net.

4A IMAGES

April 16, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

MAKING MARCHING MATTER CONTACT LAWMAKERS LYNN GREER

• EMAIL: LYNN.GREER@ALHOUSE.GOV • PHONE: 256-247-5059

PHILLIP PETTUS

• EMAIL: PHILLIP.PETTUS@ALHOUSE.GOV • PHONE: 256-757-6679

MARCEL BLACK

• EMAIL: MARCEL.BLACK@ALHOUSE.GOV • PHONE: 256-381-5277

“One-third” SGA Senate Chief of Staff Sarah Green joins in a chant during the Higher Education Day rally. College students demanded one-third of the state education budget be allocated to Alabama’s public universities.

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Influencing students Executive Director of the Higher Education Partnership of Alabama Gordon Stone speaks on the importance of funding for the state’s public universities during Higher Education Day April 9. Stone urged students to contact their legislators about the state budget.

▶

Higher Education Day is the one time each year Alabama college students come together to have their voices heard.

Although many universities are represented by students from each seeking funding for their respective schools, the objective is seeking support for all higher education.

Rallying through the streets and shouting on the state capital steps is a great way to get the attention of lawmakers.

However, when the chants are silenced and Montgomery becomes a normal capital city again, college students’ concerns are often forgotten.

When I attended Higher Education Day last year, speeches made on the capital steps indicated students would vote lawmakers out of office if

School spirit Senior Drake Vaccaro waves a pom-pom as he and hundreds of students from UNA and other Alabama public universities parade through Montgomery.

funding for Alabama’s public universities did not increase.

Speakers also encouraged students to contact their legislators personally to express concerns about college costs.

If the end of the Higher Education Day rally marks the end of students caring about funding for their universities, the marching makes no difference. Students must tell those in power what they expect, need and deserve.

Local lawmaker Rep. Lynn Greer speaks with UNA students after the Higher Education Day rally. Greer represents Limestone and Lauderdale counties.

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▶

ASHLEY REMKUS

NEWS 5A

April 16, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

RSO

Kenyan, Indian students discuss cultural effects on women ANNA GRACE USERY -LQ\WZ QV +PQMN MLQ\WZ(NTWZITI VM\

Students gathered in the living room of the Women’s Center Monday, April 6 to listen to international students Emily Kazungu from Kenya and Yogyata Batra from India speak about cultural differences for women.

The UNA chapter of the Women’s and Gender Studies Association hosted the free event.

Kazungu, Swahili Critical Languages teacher and future online editor for The Flor-Ala, and Batra, resident advisor and SGA senator, were invited to speak because of their roles as campus leaders.

Both speakers touched on cultural events pertaining to women and how

those same actions were perceived on American soil.

“Most women get married very young here (in America),” Kazungu said.

“In Kenya, women focus mainly on their career and choose to get married in their late 30s.”

Unlike the rehearsal dinner in America, the Kenyan groom’s family gives a dowry, typically in the form of

photo by KAITLIN DOUGLASS I Staff Photographer

Kenyan student Emily Kazungu (left) and Indian student Yogyata Batra discuss their personal experiences on cultural differences for women at the Women’s Center Monday, April 6. “Most women get married very young here (in America),” Kazungu said. “In Kenya, women focus mainly on their career and choose to get married in their late 30s.”

goods such as cattle, she said.

Love marriages in India are not common like in the U.S., Batra said, but she, too, comes from a family that is open-minded to the topic.

Kazungu said the shift for women’s rights in Kenya is getting better.

“Women are now allowed to drive anywhere they want and to pursue dreams of becoming doctors and engineers,” she said.

Although Kazungu did not know anyone in the Kenyan massacre that killed about 150 college students two weeks ago, it did effect her, she said.

“It scared me — my sister goes to school in Kenya,” she said. “These young people had big dreams and they were cut short. It boke my soul.”

An issue she addressed was freedom of speech, a right many Americans often take for granted. Kanungu’s emphasis was on rights of homosexuality in Kenya.

“In 2012, homosexuals rallied for their rights, although it hasn’t been stated if it’s legal or illegal,” she said. “But we Kenyans are more open-minded as opposed to Uganda where it’s illegal. You can even be killed if you know someone who is gay.”

Batra said an aspect of life Indian women battle daily in their culture is physical appearance.

Editor’s note: To read the rest of this story, visit www.florala.net.

We know you’re curious. Now come see if you are in this year’s yearbook!

The 2015 Diorama Pick up your FREE yearbook at the following times and places:

April 21 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

The Commons and Amphitheater April 22 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Harrison Plaza and GUC Atrium

6A NEWS

April 16, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

ACADEMICS

ALL ‘BOUT DAT BOOZE Class offers students in-depth knowledge of alcoholic drinks CHELSEA YARBER

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We all know college students are likely going to drink this summer, and the Geography Department offers the chance to learn something in the process.

Advanced Cultural Geography is all about the geography of beer, wine and spirits. The course is offered to both undergraduate and graduate students during the summer and fall semesters.

Students who previously took the course gave positive reviews.

“Beer, Wine, and Spirits has a very geographical connection,” said instructor Michael Pretes. “Wine is probably the topic that is studied most by geographers. To understand wine, you have to understand soil types, climate variations and aspects, like is your vineyard facing north or south?

All of these factors play a part in physical geography components.”

The course explores the geographic factors that attributed to the development and regional variation of beer, wine and spirits, according to the syllabus.

Students are introduced to the science, production and study of grapes. The course also examines hop and grain cultivation, economic, political and environmental aspects of beer, wine, and spirits in major world regions, according to the course description.

“One of the things I can say about this class is that it took a topic that is taboo in the southeast and offered an educational way of presenting this topic,” said graduate student

Robby Thompson. “It gave a hands-on experience of French and Italian wines, American wines and American beer. If you’re looking for a job, this may be a part of a job interview.

This course teaches you how to interact in a social atmosphere where you have to be comfortable around alcoholic beverages.”

It also explores the role of these beverages in contemporary society, legal and health issues, and their roles in global cultural systems.

The course also addresses tasting, serving and pairing alcoholic beverages with food, according to the syllabus.

“If you go out to eat at a restaurant and order a glass of wine, in a class like this, you know more about how to make up your mind when ordering,” Pretes said. “You begin to appreciate not just the drinking of Bud Light and understand that there is more out there to choose from.”

Barrett Parnell, senior and geography major at UNA, is the bar manager at Sperry’s Restaurant in Florence. He said he decided to enroll in this class to learn more about the historical aspects of beverages.

He said he changed his major because he took this course.

“Learning about wine and spirits helped take something that is just my everyday job and now transform it into a passion,” Parnell said.

Editor’s note: To read the rest of this story, visit www.florala.net.

VIEWPOINTS 7A

April 16, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

Embracing opportunities increases potential EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ANNA GRACE USERY MANAGING EDITOR KALI DANIEL NEWS EDITOR ASHLEY REMKUS LIFE EDITOR MARI WILLIAMS SPORTS EDITOR DUSTIN POLLARD ONLINE EDITOR JASMINE FLEMING BUSINESS MANAGER UNDREA RANDOLPH II GRAPHIC DESIGNERS JOHN BAVIS SHILO CUPPLES JORDAN FERRELL CIRCULATION MANAGER LORI BLANKENSOPP CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER KATLYN SHANNON STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS AMANDALYN DORNER KAITLIN DOUGLASS DEANNA KAMPMEYER ADVISER SCOTT MORRIS

Letters Policy The deadline for submitting letters is 10 a.m. Monday, the week of publication.

Letters must not exceed 400 words.

Letters must be accompanied by the writerʼs name, mailing address, phone number and email.

DUSTIN POLLARD

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We all know life is too short, just like we all know Shakira is beautiful.

As I have gotten older, I realize I regret more of the things I did not do than what I did do.

I regret not playing baseball in high school more than I regret getting in a fight in eighth grade for peeing on my friend’s shoe in the restroom after lunch.

We were punished with four days of in-school suspension for the incident, or four days of Purgatory, as I like to call it.

So let me get to the

point: since life is short, take advantage of every opportunity you can.

See that beautiful young lady walking into your class listening to Katy Perry? Ask her out.

She may even say yes, and who does not like Katy Perry?

Even Kim Jong-Un listens to her.

Now let me give a personal story about taking an advantage of an opportunity.

Last year I was asked if I wanted to be next year’s sports editor at The Flor-Ala. I was excited, but I had my doubts that I would be able to manage a second job.

Going to school full-time, working 40 hours per week and writing one or two stories per week as a student writer was already tough enough, I thought.

But then I said to myself, “What the Sam Leviticus Hill?

I’ll do it because at least it will look good on my resume.”

I will be honest, I have been crazy busy this year due

to my duties with the paper, my other job, my schoolwork and my internship.

I have spent a lot of late nights working, leading to me not being able to go dunk on my friends in pick up basketball throughout the week. OK, you got me; I cannot dunk on a regular goal, but on a Little Tikes goal, I am like a young Vince Carter.

Although I have been incredibly busy this year, I have also never had so much fun as I have this year.

I love my job at the paper.

Having a job watching sports is pretty freaking sweet.

Whether it has been meeting former Heisman Trophy winner Mike Garrett, mentioning my bae Shakira in every editorial, getting to interview T.I. or going to the College Football Hall of Fame for free, none of this would have been possible if I did not say yes to this job.

As a journalism major, I have learned a tremendous amount and gained a lot of

experience that will help me a ton when I am trying to get a job after graduation.

As much as I love being a librarian at the Muscle Shoals Public Library and the Dewey Decimal System, I do not want to work there forever.

Barring any drastic events, at the end of May I am moving to Baltimore (yes, Swaggy P and his alter ego Emilio Tarantino are leaving), which is bittersweet because I grew up in Florence and my friends here are awesome.

It just so happens my lease to my house is up at the end of May and since my mom lives in Baltimore, I figured I would take advantage of this opportunity to live in a big city with plenty of resources.

Hopefully, this will lead me to taking my talents to South Beach because nobody loves warm weather, the beach and Spanish-speaking women more than this guy.

Life may be short, but it is a gift full of opportunities.

Take them. Live.

Your Ad Here

The Flor-Ala prefers to publish your letters exactly as written, but reserves the right to reject slanderous or libelous material.

The publication of any letter is left to the discretion of the Editorial Board.

Priority is given to letters critical of The Flor-Ala, or written in direct response to an editorial, a column, or a news story.

When the editors deem it necessary for ease of understanding or to clarify facts, an Editorʼs Note may accompany a letter.

Address correspondence to The Flor-Ala. UNA Box 5300 Florence, AL 35632.

Advertising and Marketing

Email: florala@una.edu.

Phone: 256-765-4364

For more information call 256-765-4427

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8A NEWS

April 16, 2015• The Flor-Ala

SGA in Review • SGA - Announced its ofďŹ cer transition dinner is April 16 at 5 p.m. in GUC Banquet Hall B.

photo by MEIYAN SONG I Student Photographer

Students from Alabama’s public universities participate in the Higher Education Day rally in Montgomery April 9. The goal of the event is to lobby more funding from the state legislature.

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“Anybody here ready to make a decision? Anybody here ready to commit to making a difference for your university?�

After the rally, Rep. Lynn Greer, who represents UNA and other areas in Lauderdale County, met with UNA students and answered their questions about state government and funding for higher education. “I’ve got special interest at UNA,�

Greer said. “My granddaughter is a freshman. Y’all keep us straight. If you don’t get your fair share of the money, let us know.�

University officials said funding for UNA typically falls well below many other Alabama colleges. “I think it is really important that we get down here and our legislators hear us out because they represent us,� said senior SGA President KeKoria Greer. “I am very thankful that Rep. Greer took time to meet with us and hear our concerns.�

SGA President-elect Nick Lang and Legislative Affairs Chairman Alec Prince said they believe the day was a success. “The goal of the day is to get students down here to let everyone know the importance of higher education funding,� Lang said. “The atmosphere was good, we had all the schools here to participate and we had plenty of UNA students. Overall I think today went great.�

The Higher Education Partnership represents universities in Alabama, but its goal is to remind students they have the power to influence government, according to the partnership’s website.

The rally does that, Prince said. “Gordon Stone does a great job representing us as universities,� he said. “A lot of new UNA students came to Higher Education Day, and I feel like they had a really positive experience on their first trip.�

Prince said he hopes Higher Education Day will inspire students to take a more active role with government on issues they are passionate about (see page 4A).

“They’ll meet with everybody — me, the president, the Student Affairs staff, students and the public,� he said. “They’ll make a public presentation and meet with the search committee. The idea is to get as many people as possible to meet the candidates, offer feedback on the candidates and help us to identify who our best chief of police will be.�

Officials said the campus visits will resemble those held during the recent presidential search process that brought Ken Kitts to UNA. Senior Adam McCollum, one of the two student search committee members, said he looks forward to seeing the candidates interact with students. “In person, you really get to see how they relate to people,� McCollum said.

That’s one of the big things we need to find is someone who is comfortable around students. That comfort level is not something you can see on paper.

You actually have to meet the person to find out.�

Shields said the search process is also a time for developing new ideas about how to improve campus. “Every search process is a mutualselection process,� Shields said. “We try to find the best candidates, and the candidates evaluate us as a university.

You’ll see how a person interacts with folks, how people relate to them and that’s why it’s so important to have as many people as possible come to the public presentation.�

Until a new chief is appointed, Mark Parker fills the position temporarily.

He said he has entered his name in the search, but for right now, his focus is on maintaining the safe environment at UNA.

Editor’s note: News Editor Ashley Remkus and Staff Writer Anna Brown also contributed to this report.

Editor’s note: To read the rest of this story, visit www.florala.net.

6=:;16/ KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM ) “There are some things you just can’t tell about a person on paper,� Burkhalter said. “When you bring them to campus, you can learn about a candidate’s ability to communicate publicly and observe their ability to build relationships across multiple types of people and constituencies. It also gives opportunities for both sides to share visions and expectations.�

PARKER

JOB QUALIFICATIONS FOR UNA POLICE CHIEF: • BACHELORʟS MINIMUM OF

DEGREE OR

10

YEARS

EXPERIENCE AS A POLICE CHIEF OR COMMAND-LEVEL POSITION.

• SEVEN

YEARS OF INCREASING

• Senate - Attended Higher Education Day in Montgomery to lobby for more funding for AlabamaĘźs public universities (see page 1A for full story and page 4A for photo essay). • UPC - Announced free student ticket registration for the Spring Concert featuring T.I. has closed. Tickets are now on sale to the public for $25 online. Tickets at the box ofďŹ ce will cost $30 the night of the show.

RESPONSIBILITY IN LAW ENFORCEMENT

•

TWO YEARS IN AN ADMINISTRATIVE, SUPERVISORY ROLE

• STATE OF ALABAMA POLICE OFFICER CERTIFICATION • THE APPLICATION ALSO STIPULATES EXPERIENCE WORKING FOR A COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY IS PREFERRED.

• UPC - Reminded students it will show “American Sniper,â€? which is scheduled for April 17 at 6:30 p.m. in the GUC Performance Center.

information compiled from online job description

SEARCH COMMITTEE EXPECTATIONS FOR COLLEGE OF NURSING DEAN: • ABILITY

TO ESTABLISH A STRONG TECHNOLOGY BASE SO

NEW

UNAĘźS

INNOVATIVE ONLINE CURRICULAR PROGRAMS CAN THRIVE

• CLINICAL EXPERIENCE • ABILITY TO MAINTAIN THE NURSING PROGRAM ACCREDITATION • ABILITY TO PARTNER WITH COMMUNITY SO STUDENTS WILL BE SEEN THE NURSING WORKFORCE OF CHOICE FOR THE REGION.

AS

information provided by search committee chairwoman Carmen Burkhalter

SPORTS

SECTION B

April 16, 2015• The Flor-Ala

SOFTBALL

photo by AMANDALYN DORNER I Staff Photographer

Sophomore catcher Carey Grace Peebles rounds second base against the University of West Alabama Feb. 28. UNA (31-8, 16-7) reached No. 9 in the nation April 8. The Lions are also third in the Gulf South Conference standings with six game left in the regular season.

Lions reach highest ranking in school history KADIN POUNDERS

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This year’s softball team made history. For the first time, the Lions climbed to No. 9 in the country. Previously, the highest ranking UNA achieved was No. 10.

The Lions (31-8, 16-7) steadily creeped up the rankings since landing at the No. 22 spot earlier in the season. Since joining the top 25, UNA moved up every week except for a twoweek stay at No. 15.

“I have never been a big fan of rankings, but being able to see that our hard work is paying off is great,” said head coach Ashley Cozart. “It is a direct reflection of the hard work, dedication, and the character of our team. I am very proud of my girls.”

The softball team’s recordbreaking season has caught the attention of a lot of people, but the players do not want the historical ranking to become a distraction.

“Right now it’s kind of surreal,” said sophomore pitcher Hillary Carpenter. “I don’t think I will think about it a lot right now because that’s not what

IN THIS SECTION

matters. My mind is on winning these next few ball games. I can think about making history after my career.”

A top 10 ranking does not mean the Lions can start to become complacent, said senior outfielder Libby Olinger.

“While we were excited to know that we received the highest ranking in school history, we know that we still have a lot of work to do,” she said. “We can’t be satisfied and settle for anything less than our best. Our goals at the beginning of the season included being No. 1 in our conference and we still have a way to go over the next month to win the conference tournament and get a regional bid.”

To get to this point, the Lions have relied on great pitching and good defense from Carpenter and her counter-ace BreeAnna Blevins. Carpenter’s 0.75 ERA is tied for best in the country, and the team has the seventh best ERA in the nation. “(The pitching staff’s) success has been very vital to the team,” Cozart said. “The way they perform in the circle gives our hitters and defense the confidence we need to do what we have to do.”

Carpenter said success can be both a blessing and a curse.

“No matter how high we are in the rankings, I know that I still have to go out on the mound and work even harder because these teams are going to give us their best games against us knowing we are ranked team,” she said.

Despite suffering two losses this past weekend to Gulf South Conference rival Lee University, the Lions are still confident in their game and feel they can beat anyone at any time.

“I have a great feeling about the conference tournament,” Olinger said. “I feel like we know how important this is and we are going to give it everything it takes to win and reach our goals when it counts.

When we are playing our best ball, there is no doubt we can beat anyone in our conference or in the nation.”

Not only are the Lions confident they can win the GSC, they can also win high pressure games on the highest stage. National championship aspirations are here to stay.

Editor’s note: To read the rest of this story, visit www. florala.net.

SPORTS Tennis conference tournament preview See page 2B

D-II Softball Rankings As of April 8

#

School

1.

Valdosta State

388

2.

West Texas A&M

385

3.

Missouri St. Louis

376

4.

Dixie State

351

5.

Cal State Monterey Bay

323

6.

Georgia College

314

7.

St. Mary (Texas)

307

8.

North Georgia

290

9.

UNA

261

10. Indianapolis

See page 3B

253 information gathered from nfca.org

LIFE Bullpen pitching lights out

points

Be a Man

See page 5B

“To Pimp a Butterfly” Review See page 7B

2B SPORTS

April 16, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

TENNIS

LET THE GAMES BEGIN photo courtesy of Sports Information

Junior Ali Murad gets ready to hit the ball against Jacksonville State University March 30. The tennis teams start the Gulf South Conference April 17. The women face the University of Alabama-Huntsville in the first round and the men take on either Delta State University or UAH.

Lions prepare to make noise in conference tournament DUSTIN POLLARD

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The Gulf South Conference tennis tournament is set as both the men’s and women’s tennis teams look to advance this weekend in Montgomery.

The women’s team locked up the No. 4 seed to play the University of AlabamaHuntsville, and the men’s team faces either UAH or Delta State University in the quarterfinals starting April 17.

“We’re just solely focused on playing Delta on the men’s side and UAH on the women’s right now,” said head coach Brice Bishop. “Our focus is 100 percent on taking care of theses first matches.”

Due to a match postponement, Valdosta State University and the University of West Alabama’s men’s teams face off April 16. If the Blazers win, they lock up the No. 2 seed and UNA will be the No. 3 seed. If the Tigers win, UNA will fall to the No. 4 seed and face UAH. The women defeated UAH 5-2 April 3, and the men defeated UAH 5-4 April 3 and Delta State 6-3 March 7.

“We just need to play well this weekend and we’ll be fine in the tournament,” Bishop said. “In the men’s game against Delta, it came a week after we had all that ice on the ground.

We were able to get a few practices in inside and they weren’t, so it gave us the

advantage.”

Bishop said UNA and Delta State are different teams now.

“That was a long time ago now and Delta will be better, but we should be better too,” he said.

The men (12-5, 7-2) are on a sixgame winning streak with the last loss at the hands of Valdosta State March 22.

“We are possibly peaking at the right time,” Bishop said. “We’re just finding ways to win close games this year, which wasn’t the case in the past. We’re learning how to win right now.”

Bishop said winning so many close matches this year is helping the team stay calm when the Lions fall behind an opponent.

“Nobody ever panics, and somebody always steps up and plays big when we need them to,” he said.

This year’s success starts at the top with senior Guillaume Dechoz, Bishop said.

Dechoz is ranked No. 45 nationally and No. 13 in the region. The France native is 10-5 in singles and 10-6 in doubles this season.

“Being ranked was one of my goals this season and is a great feeling to be recognized like that while representing the university,” Dechoz said. “Now I just need to get better and focus on our team.”

Bishop said it helps, too, when the team’s best player shows so much maturity and poise.

“He’s having a heck of a year so far,” Bishop said. “We’re playing three freshmen, too, so it makes it a lot easier when the older guys are doing it right.”

The men’s team has lost four straight games in the GSC tournament with its last appearance in the semifinals in 2010.

“The problems with the past couple of years is that we came into the tournament as a much lower seed,” Bishop said.

“This year, that is not the case.”

”

WEʼRE JUST FINDING WAYS TO WIN CLOSE GAMES THIS YEAR, WHICH WASNʼT THE CASE IN THE PAST.

BRICE BISHOP HEAD COACH The Lions are also ranked No. 38 in the nation and No. 7 in the region.

“We will have a chance to move up in the rankings this weekend,” Bishop said.

He said the team needs to move up to No. 6 in the region if the team wants to make the NCAA regional tournament, and the GSC tournament is a perfect opportunity to move up in the rankings.

“The depth of the team has helped us this year,” Bishop said. “This is the deepest team we’ve ever had.”

The women (9-7, 6-4), who fell to Mississippi College 6-3 April 12 in the last game of the regular season, attempt to brush off the loss and advance to the semifinals for the fourth straight season.

“The women’s team has been a season of inconsistency,” Bishop said. “We have to figure out how to be consistent. We have plenty of talent we just need to find more energy.”

Bishop said the youth of the team plays a big role in the Lions inconsistency.

“We have one senior and no juniors,” he said. “We’re playing eight freshmen and sophomores, which is a lot. And they’re still grasping the difficulty from the transition from high school.”

The lone senior is Natalia Barragan, who is the No. 3 seed in singles and carries a 10-3 record in singles and a 8-8 record in doubles.

The Lions defeated its first round match up (UAH) earlier in what was the team’s best match of the season, Bishop said.

“They probably don’t believe we had any inconsistency this year by the way we played that day,” he said. “I know when we get down there and see UAH on the other side we’ll have our tunnel vision on.”

This week’s weather could be an issue for the GSC tournament, Bishop said.

“It’s suppose to rain all week in Montgomery, so hopefully we can get the first round in,” he said.

SPORTS 3B

April 16, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

BASEBALL

SCOREBOARD April 10-15 April 10 Menʼs/Womenʼs Tennis Vs. Christian Brothers 5-0 Win/6-0 Win April 11 Softball Vs. Lee 8-6 Loss Baseball Vs. Lee 5-0 Loss Softball Vs. Lee 8-0 Win Baseball Vs. Lee 2-1 Loss April 12

photo courtesy of Sports Information

Junior pitcher Austin Carpenter throws a pitch against Miles College March 12. Carpenter is one of three relievers with an ERA under 1.94 and at least eight appearances for the Lions.

Relievers contribute to Lions success MIKE EZEKIEL

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Anyone involved in sports knows this simple phrase as truth: The way you start is not as important as the way you finish.

For any baseball team to be successful, it has to have solid pitching from the bullpen to finish off close games. The baseball team has found success this season from its relievers.

“Any bullpen is important because they are coming in late to shut teams down,” said head coach Mike Keehn.

“It’s one of the advantages we feel that we have over other teams because we are deeper in the bullpen than a lot of teams.”

UNA’s bullpen includes three righthanded pitchers with ERAs under 1.94.

Senior closer Jacob Westerhouse has a 1.43 ERA in 17 appearances this season.

Junior relievers Austin Carpenter and Todd Gibson have ERAs of 1.93 and 1.59, respectively, and have combined for 19 appearances.

“A lot of teams may have one guy or maybe two, but most don’t have three,” Keehn said.

Keehn said when building a bullpen, he looks for guys who are consistent on the mound under any situation.

“I think the biggest thing is the ability to handle the pressure and throw strikes,” he said. “The best closers that we’ve had in the history of this program are guys who didn’t necessarily throw over 90, but could locate the ball and throw strikes.”

Westerhouse has been the go-to closer

for UNA. He is 5-0 on the season and has recorded three saves for the Lions.

“I love close games where we are up by a run,” Westerhouse said. “When it’s the ninth inning and we need three outs, the adrenaline you get with that is hard to replicate.”

Westerhouse said he credits most of his success this season to UNA’s pitching coach, Matt Hancock.

”

ITʼS ONE OF THE ADVANTAGES WE FEEL THAT

WE HAVE OVER OTHER TEAMS BECAUSE WE ARE

DEEPER IN THE BULLPEN THAN A LOT OF TEAMS.

MIKE KEEHN HEAD COACH “He’s done a great job working with us,” Westerhouse said. “We feel like when we have a lead going into the seventh inning and you give us the ball, we are going to win the game.”

Although Westerhouse is considered a closer, but he said he does not mind coming into any situation he’s needed in.

“Whenever they need me I go out there,” he said. “Whether I’m needed to stop the bleeding or finish a game out, I’m there.”

Westerhouse has 34 strikeouts and only 10 walks in 37.2 innings pitched.

Carpenter has mostly been considered the set up guy in the bullpen for UNA this season. Carpenter has the lowest

ERA among pitchers with at least two appearances.

“The success is all credited back to coach Hancock,” Carpenter said.

“He is on us all the time to make sure we are handling our business and being responsible.”

Carpenter said Hancock’s “spot-up drills,” which involve pitching to hit certain spots, are what help spark his success on the mound in high-pressure situations.

“We are accountable for each other and we push each other,” Carpenter said.

“We compete every day in spot-up drills and if we miss a spot, we have to run.

Coach challenges us to throw strikes and get guys out, and we’ve done that so far this season.

“It’s extremely important to have a good bullpen. You look at the (Kansas City) Royals – they had three guys out of the bullpen that helped them get through the post. You got to have somebody to come in and shut it down.”

Gibson has made eight appearances for the Lions this season, including a spot-start against Union University.

Batters have a team-low .186 batting average when facing Gibson.

“Gibson is a guy that can start if we need him to,” Keehn said. “When (Riley) Sanderson was sick, he came in and started. His breaking ball has depth to it which plays to his advantage.”

The Lions face Mississippi College in a three-game series starting April 18 in Clinton, Mississippi.

Softball Vs. Lee JEZEBEL DANIEL 8-1 Loss :M[QLMV\ *IJa 0MIL RLIVQMT(]VI ML] Baseball Vs. Lee 3-1 Loss Menʼs/Womenʼs Tennis @ Mississippi College 5-4 Win/6-3 Loss April 15 Baseball @ Montevallo results @ www.roarlions.com

Upcoming April 17 Tennis GSC Tournament @ Montgomery April 18 Baseball @ Mississippi College @ 2 p.m. (DH) Softball @ Mississippi College @ 4 p.m. (DH) April 19 Softball @ Mississippi College @ 1 p.m.

Baseball @ Mississippi College @ 2 p.m.

4B SPORTS

April 16, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

RECREATION

Kickboxing class offers cardio, self-defense techniques JAKE RODGERS

;\]LMV\ ?ZQ\MZ RZWLOMZ[ (]VI ML]

For students who want to blow off some steam before finals week, the Student Recreation Center has the outlet to make that happen.

This outlet is a kickboxing class, held every Monday and Wednesday from 6 to 6:45 p.m. The class is based off Mixed Martial Arts with basic pad work and cardio mixed in also.

“I like seeing more of a well-rounded class,” said student instructor Emmett de Jong. “It is something you can get a good

photo by SHAY REDD I Student Photographer

Students participate in the kickboxing class held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 to 6: 45 p.m. in the Student Recreation Center. The class teaches selfdefense techniques and offers a cardio workout.

workout, something you can hit the pads and learn self-defense technique and to let out a little bit of steam.”

Each kickboxing class consists of five minutes of stretches and 20 minutes of intense cardio workout with a water break between each session.

Next, students work on a combination of punches and jump roping followed up with 10 pushups or squats. Strength training is incorporated as well.

“I started MMA at 14-years-old — I didn’t have any other sports I was good at and I loved action movies,” de Jong said.

“I wanted to teach MMA for a long time, but I don’t have any high degree belts. I just learned whatever I could by myself.”

While MMA is scheduled toward the ring, kickboxing is more of a cardio workout, especially in this kickboxing class, de Jong said.

The class started this semester, but was not for the lack of trying. After failed attempts to start an MMA club, de Jong said he was able to get enough people to join his kickboxing class, which started with some success.

“I used to teach in high school, and a flier can only get so far,” he said. “And I wanted to do more demonstrations.”

About 30 students attended the first class and many did not have any experience in MMA or kickboxing, he said.

“This whole year I’ve been more oriented in working out,” said junior Cody McGowan. “I’ve heard people talk about it, and I didn’t bother to attend because I work a lot. Then I kept hearing people talk about it. Now I have some free time, so I’ll attend the class. It’s really beneficial.”

De Jong has passed out fliers all over the SRC to spread the word, and he has also advertised in his other classes, he said.

If the class were to be expanded, de Jong said he would like to see each class focus on one aspect of kickboxing, whether it is punching, kicking, grappling or just cardio.

Until then, the class is stressing how much the session is a great way not only to get into shape, but also to learn selfdefense and to become a more confident person.

“I want them to have fun, learn basic self-defense and learn how to throw a punch,” de Jong said. “I’m not trying to advocate violence, but some people just don’t know how to throw a punch.”

As the class evolves, so does the urgency of self-defense techniques.

“I would like to learn more selfdefense techniques other than the cardio aspect of the exercise,” McGowan said.

“I would like to see the last 30 minutes more self-defense techniques.”

PROFILE

Sophomore golfer has break out season for Lions MATT SULESKI

;\]LMV\ ?ZQ\MZ UU[]TM[SQ(]VI ML]

Quick-witted, never too excited, yet as hard working an athlete as you will find.

Sophomore golfer Forrest Knight had a tough time his first year playing for the Lions. Many times he did not travel with the team because his practice rounds were not competitive enough, and it did not seem he could help the team win.

“My first year was really tough,” Knight said. “I was not used to sitting on the sidelines, but I was working to get better and paying my dues.”

Knight re-entered the fold this season hoping things would take a turn for the better.

Knight struggled a bit as a true freshman, he said.

“I worked really hard this past fall trying to get my game where I wanted it,” Knight said. “I spent many hours working on my chipping, putting and short game as a whole.”

The fall did not bring the best results for Knight, but intuitively he knew he was on the right track and it was just a matter of time.

“Everything was coming together on the course,” Knight said. “My scores may not have indicated that, but I could feel my game was getting better.”

The winter did not allow for much practice time, as conditions were too cold to practice, he said.

“It was a bit frustrating,” Knight said.

“I thought my game was getting better and better, yet I couldn’t practice much.

But when I got the opportunity to do so, I took full advantage.”

Taking advantage is exactly what Knight did.

Knight’s second tournament of the spring produced great results as he put up scores of 72, 67 and 69 to have a threeday total of 208.

That score was good enough to put him at eight under par for the tournament and three strokes better than any other player on the course, thus resulting in his first collegiate win.

“There is no better feeling than picking up that trophy.” Knight said. “It motivates me to keep getting better.”

After a couple of solid tournaments, including the Bobcat Invitational and the UNA Spring Classic, the Lions traveled to Pensacola for the Argonaut Invitational.

Knight was at it again, firing a field best 68 on the first day of the tournament.

Knight shot 72 and 69 in days two and three to bring his three-day total to 209, finishing seven under par for the tournament.

That score was good enough to beat the runner-up by six strokes.

“My confidence just continues to

photo courtesy of Sports Information

Sophomore Forrest Knight chips the ball during the UNA Spring Classic March 23. Knight finished first individually in the Argonaut Invitational March 31. For his performance, he was named GSC Golfer of the Month.

grow,” Knight said. “This feeling never gets old.”

For his performance over the past month Knight earned Gulf South Conference Golfer of the Month.

The Lions, led by Knight, travel to Tunica, Mississippi to compete in the Gulf South Conference tournament April

21-22.

“I’m just going to continue to compete,” Knight said. “Hopefully I keep playing at a high level and can add another trophy to the case.”

The Lions are ranked No. 9 in the regional rankings.

LIFE 5B

April 16, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

GENDER

Be a Man?

Students, professor discuss societal pressure on young boys CHLOE ALLEN

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There are a number of phrases thrown around in today’s society, most of which receive little to no thought. One of those phrases is “be a man.” It is what males are told their entire lives by parents, coaches and peers. But what does it actually mean?

Sophomore Patrick Wilson said when he hears someone say, “be a man,” he thinks it means to be “manly” or do “manly things like drive a Mustang.”

Larry Bates, professor of psychology, said he thinks it means a few different things.

“I think it tells males to persevere through something tough that is going on — which is a good thing,” he said.

“But on the other hand, I think it’s telling them, ‘don’t show your emotions.’”

Bates said he thinks there are two negative outcomes that occur when using this phrase.

“One is that our emotions are our feedback when something isn’t going good and if we stop those, we’re stopping one of our indicators when things go bad,” he said. “Another thing is the socialization aspect of it. By me saying ‘be a man,’ I’m implying to the boy that somehow his emotional makeup is very different from that of girls, that it’s OK for girls to cry.

photo by KAITLIN DOUGLASS I Staff Photographer

Girls are different. The whole message that guys are different from girls is probably not a good one to teach when raising a child.”

Freshman Hannah Goldsey said she uses the phrase often.

“They can take it in two ways,” she said. “I’m joking or I’m serious and they should step up in the way they are slacking. I don’t think it’s sexist because they say things like ‘you’re such a girl’.”

”

BY ME SAYING ʻBE A MAN,ʼ IʼM

IMPLYING TO THE BOY THAT SOMEHOW HIS EMOTIONAL MAKEUP IS VERY DIFFERENT FROM THAT OF A GIRLS, THAT ITʼS

OK FOR GIRLS TO CRY.

LARRY BATES PROFESSOR OF PSYCHOLOGY In an interview with ElleCanada media, “Sons of Anarchy” star Charlie Hunnam was asked to define “being a man.”

“It means standing on your own two feet, living by your code of honor and being a rock for the people around you,” Hunnam said. “But in the modern context, it also means being in touch with your feminine side. Men have to be strong enough not to repress their emotions — real strength allows for vulnerability.”

Society is

questioning the meaning of the phrase “be a man” and its relevance in modern culture.

Sophomore Drake Vaccaro said he believes the phrase should be changed to “be a gentleman” or “be respectful.”

The phrase is often said in anger and used as an insult to offend males, said sophomore Taylor Stanley.

“I think the phrase is used as a cop-out,” said freshman Eric Busby. “It’s sexist, and people should say what they mean instead of throwing something like that around. Socially, when I hear someone say ‘be a man,’ it’s like ‘be tough and aggressive,’ but for me it’s the opposite. It’s about humility.”

6B LIFE

April 16, 2015• The Flor-Ala

HEALTH

Sugar Rush Campus examines unhealthy soda drinking habits MONDAY SANDERSON

;\INN ?ZQ\MZ U[IVLMZ[WV (]VI ML]

People have guilty pleasures they know are not always good for them. For some it is chocolate and sweets and for others it is soda.

While having a soda every once in a while is OK, too much of it can lead to negative consequences.

“One of the largest problems with drinking soda is the calorie content and the sugar content,” said Lee Renfroe, associate professor of Health, Physical Education and Recreation. “Most of the average 12 ounce sodas, which is not what a lot of people drink, has well over 100 calories in it and maybe 10 to 20 grams of sugar in one can.

“Most people drink the 16-ounce and 20-ounce sodas, which have more sugar and calories than the 12 ounces. So, empty calories and high sugar content are the biggest problems.”

The maximum sugar intake suggested per day is 37.5 grams for men and 25 grams for women. Consuming one can of soda takes up a majority of the sugar a body should have, according to American Heart Association. Too much sugar can lead to significant increase in the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease, contribute to obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

However, some people do not follow this rule of thumb or even know about it.

Diet soda is sometimes seen as a better alternative to regular soda, though not everyone enjoys it.

A 2010 study by the Centers for Disease Control found 20 percent of the U.S. consumes diet soda.

“I prefer regular soda,” said freshman Sam Oliver. “If I’m going to drink a soda, then I want to drink something real. I don’t like diet at all.”

Renfroe said she thinks there are two

sides to the diet soda debate.

“Some people don’t believe artificial sweeteners are a good health choice based on some of the studies that have been done,” she said. “There is also research that supports that in the body artificial sweeteners can fake the body out and make it think it is real sugar.”

Some say they do not drink soda at all.

“I used to drink a lot of soda, but then I stopped because I didn’t like it anymore,” said sophomore Preston Hutcheson. “I don’t like the way it makes me feel.”

Oliver said he does not drink soda often and after not drinking it for a while, he said it tasted different to him.

“It was during the summer, so it was for about two months,” he said. Once I started to drink soda again, it did taste weird to me — it was too sweet.”

While Hutcheson and Oliver were able to easily give up soda, it is not that easy for some people.

“People continue to drink soda because a lot of them have caffeine in them,” Renfroe said. “There are people who need coffee in the morning to get themselves going, but those who don’t drink coffee often turn to other beverages that have caffeine in them. Many people turn to soda. Many of them, not all of them, have high amounts of caffeine in them like Coke and Mountain Dew. Sugar is another reason — it gives people a short term boost of energy.”

At least 200 mg of caffeine per day can lead to addiction. This intake of caffeine can only come from large amounts of soda per day, according to healthresearchfunding.org.

While soda does not contain as much caffeine as coffee, it is still addictive and is offered in most places. For those people who have a hard time giving up soda, Renfroe said she recommends

going through a gradual reduction.

“If you drink six sodas a day, try to cut to five sodas a day and gradually reduce it each week,” Renfroe said.

Sophomore Ayzia Gholston said she was relieved when she learned about the gradual reduction of soda. She said she thinks this would help her give up soda much easier.

Renfroe offers a better alternative to soda.

“Water is a great way to hydrate yourself, but some people don’t like water,” she said. “You can squeeze an orange, lemon or lime slice into the water. You can also add a quarter cup of fruit juice to water. A 100 percent fruit juice can be a healthy beverage, but in moderation.”

Soda Sugar Content based on a 20 ounce

Mello Yello 78g

Mtn Dew

77g

Pepsi

69g

Coca-Cola 65g

Sprite

64g

Lauderd Sierra Mist 49g

$2 Stud $2 Shoe Ren ntal

$2 Games

Monday throug gh Thursday 12pm-4pm.

Monday through h Thursday 7pm to close.

Must show current t college ID ID. Limited lane availability, first come, first served.

Not valid with any other coupons or offers.

Prices do nott include tax.

Information for Coca-Cola products gathered from Coca-Cola productfacts.com. Pepsi product information gathered from pepsicobeveragefacts.com.

LIFE 7B

April 16, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

REVIEW

Kendrick Lamar drops most impressive album to date

JACKSON LATHAM

;\]LMV\ ?ZQ\MZ RTI\PIU (]VI ML]

Kendrick Lamar is not a kid anymore.

It has been three years since the release of “Good Kid M.a.a.d. City,” a brilliant concept album that thrilled me at every turn and four years since “Section 80.”

But that was three years ago. Where do we go from here? “To Pimp A Butterfly” is different. The singles will hardly have any radio play. There are no “Swimming Pools” on this album. This is what proves Kendrick is a man and how he values his culture, community and history.

Lamar understands the history of his people. This album is anti-violence to the max. He knew to use 70s soul samples because this was the era when the Crips and Bloods emerged. He makes a statement on this album about coming together rather than separating each other.

I agree with this statement heavily and

have 10 times more respect for Lamar.

The album opens with a soul sample setting the whole mood of the album. It is a funk- and soul-oriented journey — emotional and spiritual. It goes on to “King Kunta,” using a “Roots” reference.

Lamar talks about how the people he lived with ignored him when he was not famous and now everyone wants him.

On the album he contradicts himself with the song “Institutionalized,” constantly going back to Compton.

MAN ON THE STREET

“u” is an emotional experience.

Kendrick beats himself up describing situations from a drunken friend’s point of view. “The Blacker the Berry” described his anger toward the community and his view on how we need to approach violence and how nonviolence is the best option.

Becoming an adult is difficult, but Lamar proves he is one on this album.

A man of his people, he knows his history and art. He reads a poem at the end that presents the origin of “To Pimp a Butterfly.” It is a beautiful, touching statement. He speaks even to his own influence — Tupac Shakur.

To me it makes a huge statement on African-American culture and antiviolence. I love this album. It has inspired me so much and really encouraged me to look into hip-hop records even more than I already do.

Lamar’s lyrics on this album cut into me like a sword. He makes me feel less like I am listening to an album and more like hearing a conversation with him in a beautiful, tear-jerking way.

Overall, this album has many strengths and almost no weaknesses. If you want an album that makes a statement, this is it. I believe this is Kendrick’s best yet, so I’m giving it a 9 out of 10.

Seniors: What are you doing after graduation? ”

I HOPE TO WORK FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES AND EVENTUALLY GET INTO FOSTER CARE AND ADOPTION. THE BIG PLAN IS TO GET INTO INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION.”

”

I WOULD LIKE TO PURSUE A CAREER IN SONG WRITING. I REALLY ENJOY THE WHOLE PROCESS OF WRITING AND MAKING A SONG.”

CHAD MILLER

SALESTEIA JACKSON

”

I WILL GO BACK TO MY HOME COUNTRY OF SAUDI ARABIA AND TRY TO FIND A JOB AT A BANK.”

”

I WOULD LIKE TO SPEND A YEAR ABROAD

DOING SOMETHING AND THEN PURSUE A CAREER

U.N. IN INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT.” WITH THE

NASSER ALMUTAIRI

”

I WILL HOPEFULLY FIND A TEACHING JOB. I WOULD PREFER A LOW-INCOME SCHOOL SO ANY GRADE WOULD BE GOOD.”

KELSEY BROWN

MIRACLE OSBORNE

”

I WANT TO FIND A SCHOOL AND TEACH MUSIC, PERCUSSION OR WHATEVER I CAN.”

BRYAN MASSEY Information gathered by MELISSA PARKER l Staff Writer photos by KAITLIN DOUGLASS I Staff Photographer

8B EXTRA

April 16, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

SOCIAL MEDIA OF THE WEEK

Conveniently located in the new Student Commons building on campus!

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Mix and match to create a one of a kind taste that you love! facebook.com/frostbitetreats | twitter.com/frostbitefroyo | frostbite-treats.com