FLOR - ALA The
Oct. 15, 2015
Volume 84, Issue 9
www.FlorAla.net
HOMECOMING SECTION B
Student newspaper of the University of North Alabama
SGA
RELATIONSHIPS
Campus partners with “Itʼs On Us” JOHN ED DEARMAN Staff Writer jdearman@una.edu
photo illustration by KAITLIN DOUGLASS I Chief Photographer
The Campus Climate Survey indicated 16 percent of students surveyed experienced intimate partner violence within the last year. “It was alarming to know that our students are experiencing this type of behavior in their relationships,” said Title IX Coordinator Tammy Jacques.
Survey shows intimate partner violence underreported ANNA BROWN
News Editor news@florala.net
Results from the Campus Climate Survey indicate about 16 percent of UNA students experienced at least one act of intimate partner violence during the past year. Intimate partner violence is any physical, sexual or psychological harm by a current or former partner or spouse, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Campus Climate Survey did not address sexual violence in this report. “It was alarming to know that our students are experiencing
INSIDE
this week’s paper
this type of behavior in their relationships,” said Title IX Coordinator Tammy Jacques. “This doesn’t include the emotional abuse that could have been happening at the same time.” Intimate partners include those in dating, married and domestic relationships, Jacques said. “Intimate partner relationships can be malefemale, female-male, but it also can be same-sex,” she said. “I think it’s important for our LGBT students to know that.” The survey examined participants’ experiences with intimate partner violence using the Safe Dates Physical
NEWS . . . . . . . . 2A VIEWPOINTS . . . . 4A LIFE . . . . . . . . . 5A
”
IT WAS ALARMING TO KNOW
THAT OUR STUDENTS ARE EXPERIENCING THIS TYPE OF BEHAVIOR IN THEIR
RELATIONSHIPS.
TAMMY JACQUES
TITLE IX COORDINATOR Violence Victimization Scale. The scale lists 16 acts of physical violence such as slapping, kicking and pushing and asks participants the number of times they experienced that from an
SPORTS . . . . . . . 7A SPECIAL . . . . . . . 1B EXTRA . . . . . . . . 8B
intimate partner. Of the 978 students who took the survey, 157 indicated they experienced at least one act of intimate partner violence during the past year. The survey listed sixteen acts of physical violence such as slapping, kicking, punching and pushing. Results indicated the most common act of physical violence was “pushing or shoving.” Seventy-nine of 157 students indicated they experienced this act from an intimate partner in the previous year.
See SURVEY, page 2A
UNA is taking a stand against sexual assault by joining the forces of “It’s On Us” — a nationwide campaign started by President Barack Obama to spread awareness of sexual assault on college campuses. SGA will host a launch party in early November at the Memorial Amphitheater to kick off the “It’s On Us” campaign, said President Nick Lang. The party will be the first of many events for “It’s On Us” at UNA. “We will be educating students about what sexual assault is and how they can prevent it,” he said. There will be free food, T-shirts, stickers and buttons at the launch party, Lang said. “The whole point is to recognize that non-consensual sex is sexual assault and identify situations where assault might happen,” said Title IX Coordinator Tammy Jacques. “The more students that buy into it, the more other students will connect to it.” Lang said SGA is encouraging students to take the pledge to become an advocate against sexual assault on the “It’s On Us” website before coming to the party. “Once they’ve done that, there will be a big banner at the party they’ll be able to sign showing that they have taken the pledge,” he said. The party will serve as both a means of educating students about sexual assault and spreading information about “It’s On Us” and Title IX, he said. Other “It’s On Us” events will continue throughout the
See LAUNCH, page 2A
ADOPT A SHELTHER DOG ....... 5A
FLOR - ALA The
Please recycle your paper.
2A News
Oct. 15, 2015• The Flor-Ala
Faculty
Chicago State University elects Calhoun as president ANNA BROWN
News Editor news@florala.net
The Chicago State University board of trustees named UNA’s Vice President of Enrollment Management Thomas Calhoun the president of the university Oct. 8. The university sought a new president in hopes of increasing the university’s enrollment, according to a report from the Chicago Tribune. “One great chapter is over and another is about to begin,” Calhoun said. “I have many bittersweet feelings about this. I am tremendously excited. However, I will miss UNA and all the wonderful students here.” He said seeking a presidency had nothing to do with a desire to leave his current position. He said he thinks his time at UNA helped hone the skills he needs to lead a university. “My time at UNA has been five of the most gratifying years of my entire career,” he said. “The right opportunity just came at this time. I bring what they need at this time and they have what I need to fit there.” Calhoun said attaining a presidency has been a goal of his for many years, but he never thought he might achieve that position until about 10 years ago. “I may have at times questioned if it was a feasible goal,” he said. “In the last 10 to 15 years, I became very focused not necessarily in a presidency, but on growth in my career. (When) I was moving into senior administration and thinking more institutionally. It became clear that a
presidency was a reachable goal.” Calhoun has decades of experience in both university administration and K-12 education. He said he believes in his time here, he has become a more strategic thinker and better leader. While his current position is directly related to enrollment management, he said the positions he’s served in at other universities have all been related to enrollment. However, he never held the vice president for enrollment management title until he came to UNA. Calhoun’s position as president of Chicago State University begins Jan. 1. He said he will finish the semester at UNA, then move north.
academic pyramid. This is a tremendous acknowledgment of his experience and ability that he is chosen as a university president.” While Calhoun is a southern native, he said he spent many years in Chicago when he was younger. He moved to Chicago for graduate school and bought a home there after graduation. He said he decided to keep his home in Chicago after he moved.
To read the rest of the story, visit florala.net.
”
My time at UNA has been five of the most gratifying years of my entire career. The right opportunity just came at this time.
Thomas Calhoun
Vice President for Enrollment Management Interim Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management Vincent Brewton said he worked with Calhoun for about five years. “Everyone is excited for a colleague who has an opportunity to be a president,” he said. “It’s the summit of the
photo courtesy of Shannon Wells
Vice President for Enrollment Management Thomas Calhoun speaks at a campus event November 2012. Chicago State University named him its new president Oct. 8. His placement is effective Jan. 1.
SURVEY, continued from page 1A Twenty-five of the 157 students who reported experiencing intimate partner violence also said they had an unwanted sexual experience since becoming a student at UNA, said associate sociology professor Amber Paulk. The results of the survey show only 4 percent of students who experienced violence sought help or contacted a violence hotline after the incident. “It is difficult to say why so many students didn’t report,” Paulk said via email. “IPV (intimate partner violence) is one of the most under reported crimes in the U.S. for a variety of reasons. We hope by raising the awareness of the services that UNA offers to assist victims, more students will report and get help.” SafePlace executive director Rachel Hackworth said many victims often think there are consequences of reporting abuse, or they want to pretend it didn’t happen. Hackworth said she encourages those who want to escape an abusive relationship to seek help from SafePlace. “The most dangerous time is when someone is trying to escape the relationship,” she said. “If you’re going to get out of an abusive relationship, don’t tell them you’re leaving. Just go.” The UNA Title IX department is
“I sort of maintained a life in Chicago,” he said. “Moving there for this presidency is like going on home in some ways.” His sons and grandsons still live in Chicago, and he said he is excited to be close to them again.
assembling an Equity Resolution Panel to hear each intimate partner violence case, Jacques said. Faculty and staff members trained on Title IX investigations will make up the panel. She said two investigators will work on each case. After the panel gathers the evidence, the student chooses how to resolve the situation. The university can resolve the case based on policy violation charges, she said. Students also have the option to resolve the case based on criminal charges through the police department. Jacques said she hopes UNA’s oncampus and online HAVEN active bystander training programs educate students. “I didn’t know any of the statistics about sexual assault we learned in HAVEN,” said freshman Jason Pruitt. “I was surprised at how high they were.” Freshman Hannah Prince said the HAVEN program was helpful to her. “It went over stuff that you don’t really think about,” she said. Students can talk to a counselor privately about their experiences or report the incident through the police department or Title IX, she said. SafePlace also offers counseling and reporting services for students.
LAUNCH, continued from page 1A “This launch party is just the start,” Lang said. Sophomore Victoria Moore said she thinks “It’s On Us” is a good cause. “It’s such a great idea to start this campaign at UNA,” she said. “It shows that sexual assault should not be taken lightly.” Lang said he thinks one of SGA’s purposes is to give UNA students the best college experience possible. Part of that means educating and empowering students to stand against these issues. “Our goal is to educate students on it so they can be active agents on spreading awareness not only to other students, but
Get 1. Take
also to people out in the community.” Junior Chris Brewer said he will attend the launch party. “Having a launch party and doing other kinds of events on campus is such a great way to spread awareness, and it shows that as a student body, we are giving our support.” Freshman Mckayleh Smith said she is glad SGA is doing this campaign. “Awareness is very important, not only for us, but for the people who are actually going through it,” Smith said. “They (can) know that they are not alone.”
involved with
“It’s On Us”
the pledge to stand up against sexual
assault at itsonus.org.
2. Attend the SGA launch party in November. 3. Be an active bystander wherever you go.
NEWS 3A
Oct. 15, 2015 • The Flor-Ala
TECHNOLOGY
University to host TARC competition, student workshops ANNA BROWN
News Editor news@florala.net
For the first time, UNA will host a Team America Rocketry Challenge competition on campus. TARC is the largest student rocket contest circuit in the world, with over 700 middle school and high school teams competing across the country last year, said Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative (AMSTI) K-5 Specialist Lee Brownell. “In the entire northwest area (of Alabama), we’ll be the first hub to host (a rocketry competition),” said Management Professor Santanu Borah. “This is a big accomplishment for UNA, given the fact that we’re starting the new engineering technology management program.” The launch competition will be at the Florence Sportsplex on Savannah Highway March 19. Over 22 middle school and high school teams have already registered for the event. The first workshop is Oct. 17 at East Campus. Brownell said this first workshop will focus on teaching students how to use rocket-modeling software. “When I was the Russellville rocketry sponsor, there were only about
10 to 15 teams doing TARC in the state,” Brownell said. “Now, we have 22 teams just at the little hub here that we have going.” He said he thinks hosting the competition at UNA will not only contribute to technology education and teaching team-building skills, but also expose high school juniors and seniors to UNA’s pre-engineering programs. “They always think about Auburn, Alabama, the University of Alabama at Huntsville and the University of Alabama at Birmingham because those are the engineering schools,” Brownell said. “That’s where they expected they’d get the education they needed. (UNA) is always their second choice or ‘backup’ school.” By hosting the workshops at UNA, students can catch a glimpse of the university’s pre-engineering and business programs, he said. Borah said he thinks exposing high school students to rocketry and UNA’s engineering program can help them find jobs in north Alabama. “Huntsville is one of the main centers for rocket technology,” Borah said. “If this becomes something our students and high school students are interested in, they can take it to the next level and potentially be employed.”
Brownell said he wants to help some of the new rocketry teams in the state “get on their feet.” UNA will pay for any team interested in the competition, he said. Also, the AMSTI group is hosting three free workshops for the teams. The university also provides all the materials needed to build a TARCregulation rocket and an altimeter, he said. Participants cannot use rocket kits in competition, he said. “(The rocket) has to be something that’s available for everybody,” Brownell
said. “They have to come up with their own rocket by taking parts and putting them together to form a rocket.” High school and middle school rocketry teams typically compete by themselves, he said. Each group hosts their own launches and sends their data to TARC for rankings, he said. Now, teams can gather and launch their rockets collectively. To read the rest of the story, visit florala.net.
photo courtesy of Shannon Wells
Russellville rocketry team students pose with university officials in May after winning gold at the Team America Rocketry Challenge National finals. The team will participate in UNA’s launch competition in March.
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4A Viewpoints
Oct. 15, 2015• The Flor-Ala
Emotional abuse evident in most college relationships
Review EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kali Daniel MANAGING EDITOR Jasmine Fleming NEWS EDITOR Anna Brown LIFE EDITOR Melissa Parker SPORTS EDITOR Mike Ezekiel ASSOCIATE SPORTS EDITOR Kadin Pounders ONLINE EDITOR Emily Kazungu BUSINESS MANAGER Jordan Byrd GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Peyton Lawler Michael Meigs Kelsey Weathers CIRCULATION MANAGER Alan Kimbrel CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER Kaitlin Douglass STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Amandalyn Dorner Katlyn Shannon Shay Redd ADVISER Scott Morris
KALI DANIEL
Editor-in-Chief editor@florala.net
When someone hurts you, it can be hard to talk about, especially if he or she is someone you love and do not want to lose. While the “It’s On Us” campaign and the campus climate survey (page 1A) provide insight to sexual and physical abuse, there is still another category that is all-toocommon and all-too-confusing: emotional abuse. Almost 90 percent of college relationships show signs of emotional abuse, according to a study on courtship violence among college students.
Content is determined by the student editorial staff of The Flor-Ala and has not been approved by the university.
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.
Letters Policy Letters to the editor should be emailed to editor@florala.net or mailed to: 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.
was in an emotionally abusive relationship until my good friend pointed it out to me. Marist College proposed the perfect list for identifying emotional abuse, including: • • • • • • • •
Name-calling Yelling Intentional embarrassment Preventing you from seeing/talking to friends Blaming you for their actions: “Why did you make me do that?” Threatening suicide to prevent a breakup Guilting you when you do not consent to sex Sending repeated text messages to “check in”
In my case, I tried to explain away his behaviors. “He is just having a bad day,” or, “He is just in a bad mood” never justified his dehumanizing actions. It took me months to build up the courage to end the
relationship, but it came down to self-worth. I was worth more than being treated like garbage. I deserved someone who would love me despite my mistakes, trust me to make my own judgments and forgive past errors. If you are in an emotionally abusive relationship, the road ahead of you is not easy, but it is rewarding. If you can, consider counseling for you and your partner. Set boundaries. If nothing seems to work, find a supportive friend, family member or counselor to lean on and end the relationship. Relationships should be supportive, uplifting and celebratory. While arguments may be common and healthy for growth, there is a fine line between emotional love and emotional abuse. For more information about emotional abuse, visit loveisrespect.org or plan a visit with Student Counseling Services at 256-765-5215.
SGA brings opportunities to participate in “It’s On Us” campaign
Editorial Policy Corrections
“Emotional abuse is any act including confinement, isolation, verbal assault, humiliation, intimidation, infantilization or any other treatment which may diminish the sense of identity, dignity and self-worth,” according to Healthy Place, a website for mental health resources. I do not speak lightly about the subject. My last relationship was rooted deeply in emotional abuse, and the effects continue to influence my judgment. When I wanted to hang out with friends, my boyfriend would ask me why I did not want to hang out with him and bring it up when I came back. When we would argue, he would bring up past mistakes I had made and use them against me. When I told him something bothered me or made me uncomfortable, he would continue doing said action because he found it humorous. The biggest problem of all, though, was I had no idea I
NICK LANG
SGA President nlang@una.edu
The “It’s On Us” campaign is important to me and the campus because it represents something everyone should take a stance against. As a campus, it is important that we educate ourselves on
the effect sexual assault has on victims. By raising awareness of the campaign, SGA hopes to inform students about how to be active bystanders, give statistics that will make an impactful impression and get students to sign the pledge to say they want to be advocates to stop sexual assault on our campus. Our university is ranked one of the safest in the country, and we plan to keep it that way by incorporating the help of registered student organizations in our effort to change the campus climate to a campus where students look
after their fellow peers. SGA will film a promotional campaign video in the near future showing organizations on campus that stand against sexual assault and have signed the pledge. The hope of this video is to raise awareness of the campaign and to have as many students as possible sign the “It’s On Us” pledge. Another event SGA will host is an “It’s On Us” campaign launch party Nov. 5 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the amphitheater. We will have a speaker talk about the importance of the campaign and what it means to take the
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pledge. We will also give away promotional items such as T-shirts, buttons and stickers to spread the word, as well as Jimmy John’s sandwiches and Frio’s Popsicles to all students that attend. I am excited for what is to come with the “It’s On Us” campaign at UNA. I am proud to say that I stand against sexual assault. I encourage UNA students to engage with the campaign and be aware of what is going on throughout the rest of the year. I have taken my pledge, and you can, too, at itsonus.org.
Congratulations to our
Writer and Photographer of the Week!
Qadirah Monroe and Amandalyn Dorner
LIFE 5A
Oct. 15, 2015• The Flor-Ala
ANIMALS
photos by KAITLIN DOUGLASS I Chief Photographer
The Florence-Lauderdale Animal Shelter, currently home to nearly 230 animals, is over capacity, said Director of Animal Control Vinny Grosso. October is Adopt a Shelter Dog month and the perfect time to add a furry family member.
Owners discuss lives of sheltered dogs MELISSA PARKER Life Editor life@florala.net
Her pleading eyes peer out from behind the chain link fence. “Take me home,” they seem to say. “I could be your new best friend.” October is Adopt a Shelter Dog month, and the local shelters are the perfect places to find a new best friend. Tristan, a brindle bulldog mix, is one of nearly 230 animals living in the Florence-Lauderdale County Animal Shelter. “Tristan has been in the shelter since May,” said Senior Animal Control Officer Joni Lovelady. Junior Whitney Pacil said her family includes three rescue dogs. “I think there are a lot of misconceptions about shelter dogs being broken,” she said. “If anything, shelter dogs are probably the most grateful, probably the most loyal dogs you’ll ever have.” With the animals in the shelter right now and the approximate 350 in foster care, the shelter is over capacity, said Director of Animal Control Vinny Grosso. The shelter sees approximately 15 cats and dogs dropped off every day, he said. “During the peak season, we can have 30 to 40 dogs per day,” he said. “Now we’re down to five or six per day.” The fee to adopt a pet from
the shelter is $75, he said. This amount covers the spay or neuter fee as well as vaccines.
”
I THINK THERE ARE A LOT OF
MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT SHELTER
DOGS BEING BROKEN. IF ANYTHING, SHELTER DOGS ARE PROBABLY THE MOST GRATEFUL, PROBABLY THE MOST LOYAL DOGS YOUʼLL EVER HAVE.
WHITNEY PACIL SENIOR
The shelter is a low-kill shelter, Grosso said. The goal is to keep it that way. “Right now our euthanasia rates are the lowest in the state,” he said. “We average about 545 per year. Because of that we’re keeping a lot more animals in our system.” Grosso said the shelter budget is about $650,000 per year. This money pays for employees, keeping the shelter running 24/7 and all vet care. The public has been important in keeping the shelter low-kill, he said. “Thanks to the public, (Florence) city council and the mayor have jumped on board and given me what I need,” he said. “My budget has almost doubled since I’ve changed the outlook of the shelter.” There are other ways the public can help, he said. Grosso said keys to keeping
the shelter running smoothly are donations, both supplies and financially, volunteering, adoption and fostering. “We have three types of volunteers—community service, court-ordered and animal-lover,” Grosso said. Volunteers are a big part of how well adjusted our animals are, he said. Duties range from walking animals and providing much needed TLC to cleaning cages, he said. Senior Sam Satterfield, member of Alpha Tau Omega, said the fraternity enjoys helping the shelter. “We try to go at least once or twice a semester to help out,” he said. Sponsoring an animal is another way people can help, Grosso said. “It’s the animals that are here the longest that really need that,” he said. People can donate money to an animal to sponsor it, he said. This reduces the adoption fee and gives them a better chance of adoption. While some dogs are negatively impacted by their painful pasts, most are kind and grateful, said Debbie Rappuhn, Founder and Director of Heart of Alabama. Save. Rescue. Adopt., a no-kill shelter in Killen. “We have one right now that’s paralyzed from the waist down,” she said. “He looks at us like we are the greatest things in the world. You can tell by the way they look at you and treat you that they know you saved
This dog is one of many animals at the Florence-Lauderdale Animal Shelter looking for the perfect owner.
them.” The Florence-Lauderdale Animal Shelter did not always have the support of the community, Grosso said. “Eight to 10 years ago, when we were euthanizing over 3,000 animals a year, there wasn’t a lot of community involvement,” he said. “Now that we’ve turned things around, we’re in the spotlight a lot. There’s some good and bad in that.”
People have the perception the animal control officers are going to pick up their animals, bring them to the shelter and kill them, but it is just the opposite, he said. “It’s hard on the employees,” he said. “I won’t hire anybody here that isn’t an animal lover.” If an employee has to put an animal down, he wants the last person that animal is with to be compassionate, he said.
6A LIFE
Oct. 15, 2015• The Flor-Ala
THEATRE
Betrayal, revenge portrayed in 1946 Greek tragedy JASMINE FLEMING
Managing Editor managing@florala.net
Beginning Oct. 16, the Department of Entertainment Industry presents the Greek tragedy “Medea.” The play will be $10 for adults and $5 for UNA students, faculty and staff. The play is showing Oct. 16-17 and 2224 at 7:30 p.m. in the George S. Lindsey Theatre. The play begins after Medea, the title character, helps her lover Jason become leader of her homeland, said Charlton James, director of the play and associate professor of theatre. In the process, she kills her brother, betrays her father and flees with Jason to Corinth. In Corinth, the two start a family, and all is well — until Jason abandons Medea for the younger, prettier princess of Corinth, a political move he hopes to use to gain power, James said. After that, Medea vows to hurt Jason in any way she can. In this Robinson Jeffers adaptation, the language is more contemporary, but it still tells the original story of Medea, James said. Sophomore Vicki Montgomery, who plays Medea, said she feels the audience will enjoy seeing Medea’s internal
photo by KAITLIN DOUGLASS I Chief Photographer
Sophomores Vicki Montgomery and Edwin Huertas act out a scene from “Medea” during a Monday night practice. The play’s opening night is scheduled for Oct. 16.
journey throughout the play. “She changes in the end into this evil, hateful bitch,” Montgomery said. While preparing for the role, she said her favorite part is how Medea insults everyone. “One of the lines she says is, ‘Here it is: the lowest. The obscene dregs; the slime and the loathing; the muddy bottom of a mouthed cup,’” she said. “She’s just
describing Jason. It’s beautiful.” Anyone who studied Euripedes’ Medea, written around 400 B.C., in class will likely notice a different tone in Jeffers’ version, written in 1946, said English Professor Nicholas Mauriello. “He adapts it to reflect his view of the world after World War II,” he said. “His view is that we’re all becoming inhuman. (The U.S.) just dropped a
bomb on someone, and Jeffers is famous for saying, ‘If God is all, he must be suffering.’” James said “Medea” is big for Florence because he does not think many people in the community have seen it live. “It’s still one of the most highlyrespected, classical plays in our cannon of dramatic literature,” he said. “It’s cool for people in the community to see a play that is that well-known and that respected live.” Sophomore Graham Pugh said he is looking forward to seeing the play since he has studied it in a literature class. “I think it makes me more interested in seeing it acted out,” he said. “The performance could even make me like it more just because I can see the action and the characters come to life, and I’m not just reading it.” James said the department also tries to rotate genres and styles, and he said the last Greek plays were Antigone and Oedipus in 2008. He is also confident in his current cast to perform such a prestigious play, he said. To read the rest of this story, visit florala.net.
ADVICE
Students, professors offer tips for traveling efficiently MONDAY SANDERSON
Staff Writer msanderson2@una.edu
Many UNA students and faculty have embraced the opportunity to travel. Some travel the country, and others travel the world. The deadline for submitting an application for the spring semester of the Magellan Study Abroad program, which allows students to study one or two semesters abroad for the price of UNA tuition, is Oct. 15. There are also faculty-led and shortterm travel opportunities for students as well. Senior Tate Hipps said he has traveled to various U.S. cities and Guatemala as part of a film practicum class he is taking this semester. Hipps offered advice to those considering traveling, and said traveling simply is important. “Minimalism maximizes a better experience,” he said. On a recent trip to Guatemala, Hipps said he packed what he needed in one bag and took his camera case on the plane. Though it was hard not to stick out as a redheaded white man in Guatemala, his goal was to blend in as much as possible, he said. One way he attempted to do this was to not wear shorts because no one there wears shorts, he said. Jeffrey Bibbee, chair of the history department, said one of the more
important steps in having a good trip is research. “Read guidebooks or go online to find out more about where you are going,” he said. “Also, it’s not bad to read websites that report on the negative side of things. This way you know what hotels or areas to avoid.” He said most bad experiences come from acting too much like a tourist. Assistant Professor of Communications Beth Garfrerick said she thinks paying attention to the surroundings enriches the experience. “I actually got annoyed with some students in China because, as we were passing through the countryside, they were on their phones,” she said. “I just wanted to shout at them to look out the window. That’s my advice for young people. Just get off your phone and look at your surroundings.” How to properly pack is one of the most asked questions, said English Professor Leslie Peterson. “Pack light,” she said. “You’re not there to impress anyone by the size of your wardrobe. When I pack, I pack from the feet up. I decide what shoes I’m going to wear, and then I pick my clothes based on my shoes.” Senior Hunter Powers Middleton, who has traveled to Thailand, Switzerland and Germany, said fitting everything in one simple suitcase is best. “Pack three to five days of clothing, and don’t go over,” he said. “Only bring one outfit to go out in.”
photo by AMANDALYN DORNER I Staff Photographer
Professors Bruce and Beth Garfrerick tour New Zealand with a group of students in May as part of the Study Abroad program. Even on a rainy day, travelers were able to experience the country’s culture, Beth said.
In an email, Craig Christy, director of the Center for Global Engagement, said he emphasizes checking with the Department of State to see if there are any warnings for the area of travel and making sure all vaccinations for that area are up-to-date. He said he also suggests traveling in groups and being aware of the surroundings. Junior Whitney Pacil, who has traveled out of the country with her pilot father, said writing down the number of
the U.S. Embassy is important. “My mom was adamant that I knew the number and had it written down in multiple places,” she said. Junior Ali Murad said he travels to Pakistan to visit family once or twice a year. “Make sure you have your passport, Visa and all the documents you need to enter the country and exit the country,” he said. To read the rest of this story, visit florala.net.
SPORTS 7A
Oct. 15, 2015• The Flor-Ala
SCOREBOARD OCT. 8-11
SOCCER
Oct. 8 Soccer vs. Spring Hill College 5-0 Win
Oct. 9
Volleyball vs. Valdosta State 3-0 Win
Oct. 10
Volleyball vs. West Florida 3-0 Loss Football at Western Oregon 24-22 Loss
Oct. 11
Soccer at West Florida 3-2 Loss
photo courtesy of Sports Information
Sophomore goalkeeper Shelby Thornton reaches up for a high incoming shot against Cumberland Sept. 27. Thornton’s position, goalkeeper, is one of the most important in soccer, said head coach Chris Walker.
UPCOMING Goalkeeper position comes with pressure
Soccer
Oct. 16 vs. Christian Brothers Oct. 20 at Union Oct. 25 at West Alabama
Volleyball UWG South Region Crossover (Carrollton, Georgia) Oct. 16 vs. Nova Southeastern Oct. 16 vs. Tampa Oct. 17 vs. Saint Leo
Football
Oct. 17 vs. UNC-Pembroke (Homecoming) Oct. 24 at West Georgia Oct. 31 vs. Delta State
Golf
Oct. 19-20 TVA Community Credit Union Invitational (Killen, Alabama) Oct. 26-27 USI Puerto Rico Invitational (Rio Grande, Puerto Rico)
Cross Country
Oct. 24 Gulf South Conference CC Championships (Danville, Alabama) Games continued at roarlions.com
KADIN POUNDERS
Associate Sports Editor sports@florala.net
In every sport, there is one position that receives more scrutiny than all the others. In football, it is the quarterback. In baseball and softball, it is the pitcher. In soccer, it is the goalkeeper. “The goalkeeper position is a tough one,” said head coach Chris Walker. “You’ve got to have very thick skin. A forward’s mistakes may not stand out as much, but if the goalkeeper gives the ball away, nine times out of 10 it’s in the goal.” Because of steady goalkeeping, the coaches have not had to make many corrections. The Lions have given up 14 goals in 12 games and have shut out opponents five times this season. UNA’s starting goalkeeper, sophomore Shelby Thornton, has the best save percentage among conference goalies with at least eight starts. “Shelby has been fantastic so far this year,” Walker said. “She sat behind Rachel Beninati, one of the best goalkeepers in the
conference last year, and now and if you get scored on you she has stepped in and done a immediately have to jump back up.” great job.” Thornton said she learns a Thornton said sitting behind Beninati has helped her become lesson every time she allows a better goalkeeper this season. a goal. Once the play is over, “Being able to watch her the goalkeepers must shake play (last season) has made it off quickly to prevent any me more comfortable with additional goals. communicating with the team and my role as a goalkeeper,” Thornton said. “I learned a lot THE GOALKEEPER POSITION IS A about controlling the game from (Beninati), and that has TOUGH ONE. YOUʼVE GOT TO HAVE VERY made me a better goalkeeper.” Freshman goalie Kate THICK SKIN. IF THE GOALKEEPER GIVES THE BALL AWAY, NINE TIMES OUT OF Webster has seen some minutes for the Lions and has not given 10 ITʼS IN THE GOAL. up a goal in the four games she has played this season. HRIS ALKER “When called upon, Kate has been great this year,” Walker EAD OACH said. “She’s still learning and making the transition from “After I’m scored on, high school to college, but she pushes Shelby every day in I’ll review everything that happened before the goal to practice and competes.” As good as the goalkeeping see if I could’ve done anything has been for the Lions, better,” Thornton said. “But mistakes happen, including once the whistle blows, I goals. Thornton said one thing completely forget about (the goal).” all keepers need is confidence. Walker said the team’s “Other players on the field can make a mistake and it’s not self-confidence in each other that big of a deal. If we make a is vital to his team’s success. mistake, it’s a goal.” Thornton To keep the ball out of the net, said. “You have to be confident, goalkeepers and defenders
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must communicate and have a good relationship on the pitch. “The goalkeeper provides all the communication because she can see the entire field in front of her,” Walker said. “Communicating with defenders is important so the defense is on the same page. If the defenders aren’t comfortable, they’re going to defend a little bit different.” Senior defender Melanie Leonida said communication between the goalie and the back four is crucial to preventing goals. “It’s very important to be comfortable communicating with your goalkeeper,” Leonida said. “As a defender, I have to be able to trust my keeper and vice versa.” Thornton said the team’s chemistry started slow, but evolved through experience and reliance on one another. “It took a few games to get comfortable with the defenders, but once we did, it made the defense a lot better,” Thornton said. “You have to be able to trust them.” Thornton, Webster and the Lions soccer team host conference foe Christian Brothers Oct. 16.
8A SPORTS
Oct. 15, 2015 • The Flor-Ala
PROFILE
Senior football player provides interesting persona MIKE EZEKIEL
Sports Editor sports@florala.net
If reaching for the stars is a goal for senior defensive end Willie Bland, he should have no problem. The 6’7’’ junior college transfer from Cincinnati, Ohio, is one of the tallest players on the football team. Bland, before making the decision to transfer from Fort Scott Community College to play football, played semi-pro basketball for the Columbus Crush. “It was a pretty good experience.,” he said. “Columbus is a small town (compared to Cincinnati), so it was a really tight fan base. Kids wanted autographs and pictures, so I felt like a role model.” Bland said although he is good at basketball and loves the sport, his passion is on the gridiron. Joining the team as a defensive end, Bland switched to offense as a tight end in the middle of last season. Since UNA has depth at tight end in 2015, Bland swapped back to defensive end after UNA’s 34-12 win over Valdosta State. Bland said being back on defense is a homecoming for him. “It was hard changing to offense
experience.” Inside the locker room, Smith said Bland is a man of few words, but when he speaks, people listen. “He’s a very cool, laid back kind of guy,” Smith said. “He doesn’t say much, but his presence and leadership mean a lot to this team.” On campus, Bland is not hard to miss. If his towering height does not give him away, his unique hair styles may do the trick. Bland said during football season, he dyes his hair purple for school spirit. In October, Bland dyes his hair pink in support of breast cancer awareness, a cause that is personal to him. “I don’t just do it to draw attention to myself or to be different,” he said. “I feel like I am a direct representative of someone who fought that battle and won, and that’s my mother.” As if Bland was not already noticeable enough,
at first,” Bland said. “I had good coaching to help me learn offense. But I’m happy to be back on defense. I’ve always been a defensive guy, and switching to tight end was the only time I’ve ever played anything else.” Defensive line coach Gabe Poe, who played with Bland in 2013 before becoming a coach, said he was happy to hear the news that Bland was coming back to defense. “It means a lot to have him back,” Poe said. “He’s an experienced guy who’s played defensive end before. He’s still getting acclimated to what we do again. When he’s ready to go, I think he will see some snaps.” Junior Tyler Smith, a defensive end for the Lions, said having Bland’s leadership on their side of the ball is helpful. “It was kind of weird going up against him on the other side of the ball (in practice),” Smith said. “I feel like he really fit in with us (on defense). It’s good to have his senior leadership and
many people point out the “hoverboard” he rides around campus, something he enjoys doing in his spare time. “I just wanted a new toy,” he said. “You’re never too grown to have fun. The moment I saw it, knew I wanted to get one. It actually comes in handy with how bad parking is on campus.” After graduation, Bland intends on continuing his playing career as a football or basketball player, or beginning his coaching career. “If I can get paid to play sports, I’m all for it,” he said. “I do want to finish my education, so I can do something else I love, which is coaching and working with kids.” Bland and the Lions look to roll to victory against North Carolina-Pembroke during homecoming Oct. 17.
WILLIE BLAND • POSITION: DEFENSIVE END • CLASS: SENIOR • HEIGHT: 6ʼ7” • HOMETOWN: CINCINNATI, OHIO
photo by SHAY REDD I Staff Photographer
VOLLEYBALL
Midseason update: Lions appear strong for crossover KADIN POUNDERS
Associate Sports Editor sports@florala.net
The UNA volleyball team is over halfway through the regular season, and is still in a good position to make a run back to the Gulf South Conference tournament. The Lions hold a 14-4 overall record and an 8-2 conference record through the first 18 games of the season. UNA started off the season with two quick losses on the first day of the Tony Banner Invitational in Pennsylvania, but regrouped and won the next 12 matches.
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THE CROSSOVER IS HUGE. WEʼLL PLAY THREE MATCHES, AND HOW WE PLAY IS HUGE IN DETERMINING WHERE WEʼLL BE RANKED IN REGIONAL RANKINGS.
STEPHANIE RADECKI
HEAD COACH
“I was extremely impressed with how our team handled early season competition,” said head coach Stephanie Radecki. “I think the majority of what we’ve seen so far in the first half of conference, (the players) have handled it well. Right now we just want to keep focusing on improving.” Over the course of their 12-match winning streak, the Lions swept eight
opponents and were never forced to go to a deciding fifth set. The streak ended Oct. 1 when UNA traveled to Alabama-Huntsville, where the Chargers swept the Lions. “A lot went wrong for us, and a lot went right for UAH,” Radecki said. “Up until that night, all season we had five hitters that could put the ball away and were very effective. We just didn’t have that night.” Following the UAH match, the Lions swept Mississippi College and Valdosta State in their next two matches but fell to conference favorite West Florida 3-0 at home. “We had two tough losses against UAH and West Florida that put us in second place (in the GSC),” said sophomore outside hitter Lexie Bradley. “We all expect us to be in first place, but we are doing some amazing things on the court. We just need to continue to do that.” Even with 18 matches under its belt, UNA still has plenty of crucial matches remaining on its schedule. The next big test for the Lions will be in Carrollton, Georgia, where UNA will participate in the GSC/SSC (Sunshine State Conference) Crossover Oct. 16-17. “The crossover is huge,” Radecki said. “It’s the first time Sunshine Stateassociated teams and Gulf South Conference teams will be at the same site. We’ll play three matches and how we play is huge in determining where we’ll be ranked in regional rankings.” Following the crossover tournament,
UNA will play in nine more conference matches to finish off the regular season. Five of the nine remaining matches will be on the road. UNA’s strength to this point is offense. Through the first 18 games, the Lions lead the GSC in hitting percentage and are second in kills per set. To complement the offense, the Lions have progressed in other areas throughout the season.
“I think our whole game as a team has improved — hitting, blocking, defense, serve receive — everything,” Bradley said. “We strive to improve every aspect of the game every day. That’s definitely what has helped us with our success.” UNA’s next two matches take place Oct. 16 against Nova Southeastern and Tampa in the GSC/SSC Crossover. The first game for the Lions begins 1:30 p.m. CST.
photo by SHAY REDD I Staff Photographer
Junior outside hitter Natasha Fomina leaps up for a spike against West Georgia Sept. 29. The Lions offense leads the conference in hitting percentage. UNA hopes to continue its success in the GSC/SSC Crossover Oct. 16-17.
HOMECOMING
SECTION B
Oct. 15, 2015• The Flor-Ala
HOMEC MING Game preview 3B
Kitts v. Kitts 2B Homecoming History 5B
2B HOMECOMING
Oct. 15, 2015 • The Flor-Ala
FOOTBALL
Kitts vs Kitts
Lions face President Kittsʼ previous university at homecoming ANNA BROWN
News Editor news@florala.net
What are the odds a college football team will play it’s new president’s former university for homecoming? Nearly impossible? The stars have aligned for UNA’s 2015 homecoming game. This Saturday, UNA faces the University of North Carolina-Pembroke. Our own President Kenneth Kitts previously served Pembroke’s provost. “I’ve had people ask me goodnaturedly if I have any divided loyalties,” Kitts said. “No. I’m a Lion now. I’m proud to be here and I bleed purple and gold. On homecoming, it’s all about the Lions.” UNA previously played Pembroke in both playoff games and nonconference regular season games, Kitts said. The Lions prevailed in both meetings. “I’m sure this game means more to President Kitts now than it would if he had never served at Pembroke,” said head coach Bobby Wallace. “If we don’t win, I’m sure he’ll get some ribbing.” This year’s matchup is special because it is not just any homecoming game. This year marks UNA’s 185th homecoming and the presidential family’s first homecoming. “It’s just interesting and a little funny, you know?” Kitts said. “Who would have thought it? Life is just strange that way.” When UNA played at Pembroke last year, Kitts said he already knew he was interviewing for the presidency at UNA. “Interestingly, that (game) was within a week of me interviewing here,” he said. “North Alabama was very much on my radar.” However, Kitts and his wife did not attend that game because they were out
of town, he said. “I remember thinking it was probably a good thing because it might have been weird if I had been there watching my current school play this bunch from Alabama where I’m getting ready to interview,” he said. “When I came to interview (at UNA), it had been about a week, and I actually heard some jokes about it.” The first time UNA and Pembroke met was in a playoff game in 2013, he said. “They’re a good team,” he said. “I commend the job they have done. They haven’t been a team for very long, but they’ve been successful.”
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IʼVE HAD PEOPLE ASK ME GOOD-NATUREDLY IF I HAVE ANY DIVIDED LOYALTIES. NO. I AM A LION NOW. IʼM PROUD TO BE HERE, AND I BLEED PURPLE AND GOLD. ON HOMECOMING, ITʼS ALL ABOUT THE LIONS.
“I think it will be a great game,” he said. “If we play like we are capable of playing, we will win. If not, we won’t.” Kitts said he enjoys sports and has attended UNA’s first three football games. While a 10-hour drive separates UNA and Pembroke, they both have a rich history in academics and athletics, Kitts said. However, he said the community’s support of UNA’s athletics is significant. He said he thinks one reason the gameday experience is so great at UNA is the size of Braly Stadium. “This is a large stadium for a Division II (football team),” Kitts said. “Getting 10,000-12,000 people out for a Division II game is really nice. There’s a lot of history here, so people come out for it.” Kitts said he and his wife still keep in touch with many friends and co-workers from Pembroke. “I still have a lot of good friends at
Pembroke who I worked with he said. “They’re good people.” He said he hopes to spend time with Pembroke’s athletic director and his family while they are in town for the homecoming game. Senior Brittany Leach said she usually attends the homecoming game every year. She said she is attending the game Saturday. Even though Kitts is now UNA’s president, she said she thinks he might have some old loyalties. “It’s a funny coincidence that we’re playing them on homecoming,” Leach said. “On homecoming, I think he should be loyal to his current university.” Freshman football manager Kyariss Stewart said this is a “funny coincidence” for President Kitts. “You know he’s going to pull for the home team, UNA,” he said. “This is just funny.”
KENNETH KITTS UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT Pembroke recently re-started their football program after it was discontinued in the 1950s, Kitts said. The Lions first faced Pembroke in 2013 at a playoff game. “It’s kind of a newish experiment for them but they’ve done well,” he said. “They’ve obviously done well since they were in the playoffs a couple years ago.” Even though UNA prevailed against Pembroke for the previous two years, Wallace said UNA must play to their fullest to gain a homecoming victory.
photo courtesy of Mason Matthews
Quarterback Zack Tate (17) and Jacob Tucker prepare to pass the ball during the 2014 homecoming game against Western Oregon University. The Lions face the University of North Carolina-Pembroke for the homecoming game Oct. 17.
HOMECOMING 3B
Oct. 15, 2015• The Flor-Ala
PREVIEW
Homecoming win crucial for football teamʼs success MIKE EZEKIEL
Sports Editor sports@florala.net
Coming off a heartbreaking 2422 loss to Western Oregon, the UNA football team will return home for its homecoming game against North Carolina Pembroke Oct. 17. This will be the third straight year the Lions and Braves have squared off and will be the first time the teams have played each other in Braly Stadium. “It will be great (to be back at home),”said head coach Bobby Wallace. “We’ve had two long road trips. UNCPembroke is in our region and is a very important game.” UNA president Kenneth Kitts was the former president at UNC-Pembroke before arriving in Florence this year. The Lions, who are 4-1 on the season, will look to rebound from last week’s
non-conference loss. While the Braves are not a conference opponent, they are in UNA’s super region, which could affect UNA’s playoff status. “They are having a very successful season,” Wallace said. “Last year was kind of a rebuilding year for them, but now they are coming back with a lot of success.” North Carolina-Pembroke comes in with a 4-1 record. The Braves, who appear to be a slight underdog, look to overcome their woes against the Lions. The Braves have failed to defeat UNA in the last couple of years, as the Lions won the 2013 second round playoff game 37-13. The Lions also took last year’s matchup in Pembroke 27-6. Wallace said in order for his team to rebound, they will need to cut down on turnovers. The Lions had five turnovers in the loss to Western Oregon Oct. 10. “We have to work on ball security,”
Wallace said. “Our quarterbacks will need to understand their decision making process. We have very intelligent quarterbacks and I have all the confidence in the world we will get back on track.” Junior defensive end E.J. Parnell said he quickly put last week’s loss behind him and cannot afford to dwell on it. “The loss is in the record books,” he said. “I wouldn’t say this is a rebound game. I would just say this is another game on our schedule we have to win, especially since we are back in Braly (Stadium) this week.” Parnell said while homecoming games can bring many distractions to a football team, he sees the game as an opportunity to perform in front of some of UNA’s historically greatest players. “Everyone is coming back for homecoming, so it puts a weight on our shoulders to perform to the best of our ability,” he said. “We have to win this
game.” Senior defensive back Darvell Harris said he does not want to overlook this game after last week’s upset. “We got a little sidetracked last week,” Harris said. “We came out flat. I can’t make excuses for that. We need to come out and make a statement. Pembroke is a good team, so we have to be ready to execute.” After homecoming, the Lions will finish the season with four tough conference games against West Georgia, Delta State, Shorter and West Alabama. West Georgia is ranked second in the nation, while Delta State holds the 15th spot in the polls. “We still control everything we want to control if we take things one game at a time,” Wallace said. “That’s the only way we can look at it.” The homecoming game will take place in Braly Stadium at 6 p.m.
BAND
Pride of Dixie prepares for homecoming performances JASMINE FLEMING
Managing Editor managing@florala.net
While UNA’s football team prepares to play University of North CarolinaPembroke, The Pride of Dixie marching band plans for another memorable homecoming week. Their performances begin with the homecoming parade, and this year, the Pride of Dixie will sing the UNA Fight Song in the parade, said Director of Bands Lloyd Jones in an email. Jones said the band has performed in the homecoming parade every year since 1949. Performing in the parade is a major highlight for the band, said Evan Curtis, one of the band’s drum majors and a graduate student. “The homecoming parade is great,” he said. “We love representing the university, and getting to see firsthand the support of the community is very humbling.” As the focus of homecoming is for the UNA community to interact with alumni, Jones said, the band includes them in their homecoming festivities. The band invites alumni to the parade, an alumni meal and the next game, Jones said. He said the Pride of Dixie also hosts a casual alumni reunion after the parade. Tyler Gean, a 2013 UNA graduate and Pride of Dixie alumnus, said he always tries to participate in the group’s activities because of the affect being a member had on his life. “When you invest your whole self
into an organization such as the POD, it becomes a part of you,” he said. “You find yourself wanting to strive for perfection in everything you do.” The band also has the opportunity during tailgating to perform at an alumni pavilion, Curtis said. “It gives us a great opportunity to connect with them and show them our gratitude for paving the way for what we are doing now,” he said. The band’s performances move on to the pregame show, where members play the background music for the homecoming court and the announcement of the king and queen, he said.
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photo by AMANDALYN DORNER I Staff Photographer
THE HOMECOMING PARADE IS GREAT. WE LOVE REPRESENTING THE UNIVERSITY, AND GETTING TO SEE FIRSTHAND THE SUPPORT OF THE
COMMUNITY IS VERY HUMBLING.
EVAN CURTIS DRUM MAJOR
After that, they participate in the Lion Walk, where the football team enters the stadium, Curtis said. Then, the members make their way to the field for the halftime show, and he said they have a special show tradition. “We have a tune we play exclusively for homecoming called ‘Wave,’” he said. “We’ve been doing it for years, so it’s not necessarily new, but it’s a tradition. It’s
Members of the Pride of Dixie march onto the field to play the national anthem before UNA’s game against Florida Tech. The POD plans to have an entertaining halftime show at homecoming, said Director of Bands Lloyd Jones.
fun for the group to play.” The homecoming halftime show will also be the first time the band plays the entire show for the home crowd this season, he said. In addition to “Wave,” the band plays fanfares and the fight song, Jones said. Junior percussionist Lily Mitchell said performing for the homecoming crowd is her favorite part of the festivities. “There are a lot of alumni and a lot more students present, so I think playing for the huge number of people is really exciting.” Alex Benson, a transfer junior, said he has been a fan of the Pride of Dixie performances since high school. “They were doing an exhibition performance at a high school competition,
and they were performing Malagueña that year,” he said. “I remember them turning around during that song, and (I was) hit with an amazing wall of sound. I honestly loved every second of it.” Benson said he drove to Birmingham when UNA played Miles earlier this season just to hear the band, and he is looking forward to seeing their homecoming performance. All in all, entertaining the community and alumni is an honor, Jones said. “The students and staff, as well as myself, enjoy performing the halftime show for the alumni who have returned to campus,” he said. “Many alumni only attend one game during the season, and many tell us the band’s show is the highlight of their weekend.”
4B Homecoming Homecoming
Oct. 15, 2015 • The Flor-Ala
Countdown!
October 15
MasqueraVe 9 p.m. - midnight Towers Cafeteria
! 3 2!
October 16
UNA Soccer vs. Christian Brothers 7 p.m. Bill Jones Athletic Complex
Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony 9 a.m. GUC Performance Center
October 17
1!
Alumni Awards Banquet (reservations required) 6 p.m. GUC Banquet Halls
Pep Rally, Bonfire and Concert feat. Logan Brill 9 p.m. Cross Point Field, 1350 Cox Creek Pkwy Homecoming Parade 11 a.m. Begins on Court Street, heading south
Lunch on the Lawn (Alumni Event) noon - 2 p.m. Rogers Hall Alumni House
Tailgating 3 p.m. Spirit Quad (front lawn of Florence Middle School)
Lion Walk 4 p.m. Braly Stadium
Pre-Game Show 5:20 p.m. Braly Stadium
GAME TIME!
UNA vs. North Carolina-Pembroke 6 p.m. Braly Stadium photo courtesy of David Montgomery
Information compiled by JASMINE FLEMING I Managing Editor
Information gathered from the University Program Council and the UNA alumni website.
HOMECOMING 5B
Oct. 15, 2015• The Flor-Ala
HISTORY
The Flor-Ala file photo
Members of ROTC and the Pride of Dixie marching band take to the streets during 2012’s homecoming parade. Homecoming 2015 festivities kicked off Oct. 13 and will end with the football game against University of North Carolina-Pembroke Oct. 17.
Homecoming traditions big part of university pride EMILY KAZUNGU
Online Editor online@florala.net
Apart from the highly anticipated football season each fall brings, college students and the local community look forward to homecoming. People’s perception of homecoming varies, said Director of Advancement in the Office of Alumni Relations Carol Lyles. “It gives the students an opportunity to celebrate a special weekend in the fall, but it (also) gives alumni a time to come home and remember what it was like
when they were here as students,” she said. Most of the students come back as groups depending on what they were involved in when they were still in school. The class of 1965 will be present for homecoming weekend, Lyles said. “It’s just a time that they can reconnect and remember the best years of their lives,” she said. “That’s what homecoming is about. It is a heartwarming time to celebrate with the friends that you made while you were in school.” Homecoming is the time of year alumni come back to school and spend
time with the students. They just have a good time and reminisce, said junior Jonathan Barnett. During homecoming, the school recognizes and honors alumni who have stood out in their careers, Lyles said. “This time, we’re honoring international alumni Cagri Bagcioglu,” Lyles said. “He was actually a student here when I started working here (18 years ago), and he became the director of the international program at UNA. Now he is director of a program at a university in Turkey.” UNA alumnus Stan Patterson will also be honored during this year’s
homecoming. Patterson graduated with a degree in Health, Physical Education and Recreation. He works with people who have lost their legs and limbs, Lyles said. Dioramas that go back to 1948 show homecoming celebrations. There was only a homecoming queen until about 20 years ago when they introduced a homecoming king. University Program Council Vice President Adam McCollum said he likes homecoming because students get together and have a good time.
See HISTORY, page 6B
THEME
Lion Gras chosen as theme for homecoming MELISSA PARKER Life Editor life@florala.net
For many schools, Homecoming Week is a big deal. Planning starts months ahead of time. Themed events, to bolster school pride, take place the week before the big football game. At UNA, it is no different. Members of the student government association spent part of their summers debating homecoming theme ideas, said University Program Council Vice President Adam McCollum. “It came down to Lion King and Mardi Gras,” he said. “For the most part, everyone wanted a Mardi Gras theme.” The theme for this year’s homecoming is “Lion Gras — Party Like the King,” McCollum said. “We figured there was a lot we could do with the colors and the festival theme,” he said. Sophomore Brittany Garrison said
she is from Ocean Springs, Mississippi, where they celebrate Mardi Gras for an entire week. “I hope we can do it well here,” she said. Tonight, students will have the opportunity to party with DeeJay Battle in Towers Hall at the “MasqueraVe.” The event will begin at 9 p.m. and end at midnight. Sodexo is serving cajun food at all its locations throughout the day. The bonfire, pep rally and a special concert at Cross Point Church of Christ featuring Logan Brill will take place on Friday, McCollum said. Rolling Stone magazine recently selected her as one of the 10 New Country Artists You Need to Know. The week rounds out with the parade, tailgating and the game against University of North Carolina-Pembroke Saturday.
See LION GRAS, page 6B
October 23-25!
6B HOMECOMING
Oct. 15, 2015 • The Flor-Ala
MOTS
Do you care about the Homecoming festivities?
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YES. I CARE JUST BECAUSE OF THE DIFFERENT ACTIVITIES.
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THIS IS MY FIRST YEAR HERE, SO ITʼS NOT A BIG DEAL FOR ME.
AARON GORDON
NOT REALLY. ITʼS NOT A BIG DEAL HERE. THEREʼS NOT REALLY ANY MENTION OF IT.
HANNAH MCCOMB SENIOR
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YES, BECAUSE OF THE FESTIVITIES AND HOW IT EASES THE STRESS OF SPORTS.
JOE LEWIS
SOPHOMORE
HISTORY, continued from page 5B parade competition, said senior and UPC Pro Tempore Amanda Areostatico. “(Spirit challenge) is an incentive to be a part of UNA events,” she said. “It increases the school spirit, it makes them more active on campus and (helps students) connect with the community.”
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HANI ALMUSAYID
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YES I DO. ITʼS A TRADITION THAT EVERYONE SHOULD BE INVOLVED IN.
MEGAN STATOM FRESHMAN
YES, BECAUSE HOMECOMING IS GREAT FOR UNA SPIRIT.
CANDICE SANDERS SENIOR
FRESHMAN
FRESHMAN
Information compiled by MONDAY SANDERSON | Staff Writer
“(Homecoming) is just to get the people in the community and people who have been involved in the university back with the students and show them where they can go after they leave (school),” McCollum said. There is a spirit challenge that goes on every year where different organizations on campus participate. There are three events in the spirit challenge: window painting competition, pep rally and
NO, I DO NOT. IʼM NOT INTO FOOTBALL.
BRODIE BELCHER
SOPHOMORE
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”
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YES, BECAUSE OF ALL THE EVENTS THAT HAPPEN.
TANDREA CALLIER FRESHMAN
photos by KAITLIN DOUGLASS I Chief Photographer
LION GRAS, continued from page 5B Sophomore Morgan Cantrell, a member of Phi Mu, said the sorority has been working on their float and is looking forward to Saturday. “We’re really excited about getting to participate in the parade and cheer our boys on,” she said. Students have had the opportunity to participate in a number of activities already this week. On Makeover Monday, SGA provided
students beads and ribbons to decorate designated locations around campus. “We got permission from grounds to decorate the campus,” McCollum said. Tuesday, President Kitts and his wife treated students to King Cake and nonalcoholic drinks on the lawn of their home. On Jazz it Up Wednesday, jazz artists and juniors Jeremiah and John Moore performed at the amphitheater.
Reserved parking space adjacent to UNA. $275 per semester. Call (256)-757-2795 or (256)-648-1365.
Oct. 15, 2015 • The Flor-Ala
HOMECOMING 7B
Homecoming Court Why would you like to be king/queen?
CULLEN AKIN
CA: I believe it will be the best way to cap off my senior year. AA: It was an honor to be even nominated! It’s weird to think I have a 1 in 5 chance to be royalty. To be UNA’s Homecoming Queen would be a huge honor! I love my UNA! Plus I’ve always wanted to be a princess. JF: I have always told many individuals that this is the university to come, this is the university that has changed my life for the better, and this is the university that is motivated and deviated to the students. Now to have a one in five chance to be homecoming king…. It’s ultimately on that unwritten bucket list. EM: I think it would be such an honor to be the homecoming queen because I would get to represent the best university and my home of four years. I want local students to know how great of a school UNA is and that they do not have to go off to a big school to get an awesome college experience. I have had the most amazing college experience here in my hometown! RW: I would like to be homecoming queen because UNA is homecookin’ to me. Our students are the finest, funniest, most talented batch of smart cookies, and I’m proud to be one of them!
ELLI MITCHELL
What is something we don’t know about you?
AMANDA AREOSTATICO
CA: I would think it would be that I am actually the youngest out of 4 children in my family. Many people are shocked by this and think and I am the only child. LH: I was on the juggling team growing up. I don’t tell a lot of people because I’m actually terrible at juggling now. MM: An interesting fact about me is that I used to compete in Forestry competition with the Tanner FFA Chapter. ST: I tried to play every sport in the book but failed miserably at all of them except for swimming, which I ended up doing for 10 years and am currently a coach for Florence high school varsity team. DV: I broke my collarbone when I was born.
MAURICE MULL
What is the craziest thing to happen to you? BROOKE CHAMBLEE
AA: I found $50 on the train bridge. Freshman year, me and a group of friends decided to pull an all-nighter. We played hide-n-seek on-campus, tried to find the perfect spot to watch the sunrise, and I used the $50 to buy everyone McDonalds to end our adventure. BC: When a bird pooped on me right after I heard the lions roar for the very first time. I still had a class to go to and didn’t have time to change. MM: I drove my car to school, forgot about it and rode the bus home. ST: When I studied abroad in China, me and some friends went to an alley in Beijing where they sold weird foods and we ate fried scorpion. It was pretty good and tasted like tortilla chips. RW: On my way home from LA this summer, I sat next to Beyonce’s manager... She was going to Hunstville to pick up her daughter from space camp.
SETH TAYLOR
If you were a pizza, what would you be? JOSE FIGUEROA-CIFUENTES
LAUREN HULSEY
BC: A deep dish veggie pizza because there may be some things about me some do not like — like mushrooms — but there are also things about me some may actually like, like the abundance of cheese and pizza sauce. Also because I might be a bit doughy compared to other pizza choices. JF: I would say a tropical mango pizza. It somewhat describes me. Many individuals would be somewhat confused about it and start talking about the flavor but why judge first when you haven’t given it a shot. LH: If I could be any type of pizza I would definitely be a dessert pizza. Anything with chocolate, and if we’re getting really specific - s’mores pizza from Pie Factory. I pretty much live for dessert and would pick dessert foods over real food any day of the week. Life’s too short, always eat dessert! EM: If I could be any pizza I would be basic cheese and pepperoni because I am a very basic and simple girl that does not really do trends and just sticks to what I have always liked. DV: If I were a pizza I would be a Supreme Pizza not only because I’m supreme, but I offer things that everyone likes.
DRAKE VACCARO
see everyone’s answers online at florala.net
RACHEL WAMMACK
QUEEN PILLOW-TOP mattress set $195. Full $175, King $295. Delivery available. Eric (256) 710-7325
8B EXTRA
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Oct. 15, 2015 • The Flor-Ala