Feb. 4 issue

FLOR The Feb. 4, 2016

Volume 84, Issue 19

BASEBALL PREVIEW PAGE 12

www.FlorAla.net

Student newspaper of the University of North Alabama

University fires professor for harassment KALI DANIEL

Editor-in-Chief editor@florala.net

photo courtesy of Shannon Wells

A secondary education major helps students at Kilby Laboratory School with a project. The Alabama Board of Education passed legislation allowing uncertified teachers to teach in public schools as “adjunct instructors” Jan. 14.

Educators, students react to teacher legislation KAITLYN DAVIS

Staff Writer kdavis16@una.edu

The Alabama Board of Education is allowing uncertified instructors, effective immediately, to teach in public schools K-12, due to a shortage of teachers in the state.

These uncertified instructors, known as adjunct teachers, will work under the supervision of a licensed teacher, according to Alabama State Board of Education documents.

“I would say the greatest challenge for (uncertified teachers) would be understanding the methods of teaching and strategies for working with all learning

INSIDE

this week’s paper

abilities,” said Dean of the College of Education and Human Sciences Donna Lefort.

Lefort said she could also see benefits to this model in certain fields like art, music and career technical classes.

Some shortages are geographic, but some subjects like math and science see more shortages than others.

Individuals who pursue careers in math and science can receive higher compensation in fields other than teaching, she said.

There are additional options for individuals who want to teach but do not have a degree in education, Lefort said.

“We do have an alternative master’s program that is designed for professionals,

NEWS . . . . . . . . 2 IMAGES . . . . . . . 4 VIEWPOINTS . . . . 7

who already hold a bachelor’s degree, to go back to school and become certified professional educators,” Lefort said.

”

I WOULD SAY THE GREATEST CHALLENGE FOR (UNCERTIFIED TEACHERS) WOULD BE UNDERSTANDING THE METHODS OF TEACHING AND STRATEGIES FOR WORKING WITH ALL LEARNING ABILITIES.

DONNA LEFORT

DEAN, COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND HUMAN SCIENCES

LIFE . . . . . . . . . 9 SPORTS . . . . . . . 12 EXTRA . . . . . . . . 16

It is most important for students to receive the best possible education from their instructor, Lefort said.

“Bottom line is the students in that classroom deserve the most qualified individual, the best prepared person that is going to give them the most during that class period, in that subject so they can be prepared for college and the workforce,” Lefort said.

UNA alumna and Alabama teacher Rebeccah Canoles said she does not agree with the Alabama Board’s decision.

University officials confirmed they fired professor Eddie Elsey Jr., 1020 Linwood Ave., Florence, for sexual harassment involving a student Jan. 26.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission defines sexual harassment as “unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature.” “(He) was offered the opportunity to appeal the decision, and both the finding of responsibility and the decision for termination were upheld by a hearing committee composed of faculty members,” said Director of University Communications and Marketing Bryan Rachal in an email. “We followed protocol and handled this case as fairly and responsibly as possible.”

Elsey was a music instructor at the university since August 2002, and this was not his first offense, according to university records.

In 2007, former University President William Cale reprimanded Elsey for having “an extramarital relationship” with a student, according to the written reprimand.

It also said, “Some of the extramarital activities occurred at the University” and that the University Grievance Committee noted he, at the time, “served as the academic adviser and…instructor” to the student.

See ELSEY, page 8

See TEACHERS, page 8

CIVIL RIGHTS TIMELINE........9

ELSEY FLOR - ALA The

Please recycle your paper.

2 NEWS

Feb. 4, 2016• The Flor-Ala

Throwback Thursdays strive for the future KAITLYN DAVIS

Staff Writer kdavis16@una.edu

Throwback Thursday movies are trying to make their way out of the past and into University Program Council movie nights.

At the beginning of the fall semester, UPC planned to present three movies a month: Movie Monday, Throwback Thursday and Film Friday. UPC planned to show older films most current UNA students grew up watching.

While Movie Monday and Film Friday have been successful, UPC has not shown a Throwback Thursday movie.

“This is a great example of what happens when you shoot for the stars and land in the clouds,” said UPC Vice President Adam McCollum.

The contract the university has with swank.com, an online movie distributor, prevents UPC from accessing older movies, said UPC Movies and Novelties Chair Winston Barton.

“Whenever you show a movie with over 20 viewers you have to purchase the rights, so that’s where swank.com comes in,” Barton said.

He said UPC still hopes to show Throwback Thursday movies on campus if they can purchase the rights to older movies on swank.com.

“We’re going to try to get a Robin Williams movie for March,” he said.

“If we can find it on swank, we are 100 percent going to, but again it’s pretty much out of our control.”

The university’s contract with swank.com allows students to see movies before they come out on DVD, Barton said.

“We would really like to show the new ‘Star Wars’ movie in April,” Barton said. “Swank is very good for newer movies.”

While Throwback Thursday movies have been unsuccessful so far, he said UPC is improving movie nights for students.

“We’re trying to ramp (movie nights) up in terms of quality,” Barton said. “We’re trying to really push better novelties, and the stuff that (the students) will receive will be

”

THIS IS A GOOD EXAMPLE OF WHAT

HAPPENS WHEN YOU SHOOT FOR THE STARS AND LAND IN THE CLOUDS.

ADAM MCCOLLUM UPC VICE PRESIDENT of a much higher quality because we have gotten a boost in our funding.

They’re getting a better experience going to the movies then they have in the past.”

Due to an increase in student enrollment for the fall and spring semesters, UPC received more funds from the Student Activity Fee, McCollum said in a previous article.

Students received crewneck sweatshirts at the last Movie Monday event featuring “Selma.” Future novelties include blankets and sweatsuits, Barton said.

On average, 150 to 180 students

attend the movie nights, Barton said.

Senior Richard Allen Stubbs said he went to the UPC’s presentation of “Inside Out” and thought it was fun.

Stubbs said he would like to see UPC present “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” and “Independence Day” as a throwback film for Movie Mondays or Film Fridays.

Senior Sally Stone said she enjoys going to the movie nights and would like to see UPC present a throwback film.

“Everyone loves seeing films that are cause for nostalgia,” Stone said. “I love going because it’s something free, on campus and friends from all over campus come together.”

AMANDALYN DORNER I Staff Photographer

Students wait on the Guillot University Center staircase for the first Movie Mondays night of the new year. So far, the University Program Council has only held Movie Monday and Film Friday events.

News 3

Feb. 4, 2016 • The Flor-Ala

SGA adds 6 campus maps ANNA BEAHM

News Editor news@florala.net

Students looking for a sign to go to class today need not search for much longer.

The university, in conjunction with the Student Government Association, is adding more maps in key locations across campus.

“All the feedback I have heard from the students has been positive,” said SGA President Nick Lang. “The students I have talked to stated that the maps have helped them to not only find their classes, but also help them find buildings when they are exploring different parts of campus.”

SGA installed the two current maps on campus in summer 2015. One is in front of Keller Hall and the other on the Shelby Way walkway near the Stone Lodge, Lang said in a previous article.

Vice President for Business and

”

All the feedback I have heard from the students has been positive. The students I have talked to stated that the maps have helped them to not only find their class, but also help them find buildings when they are

exploring different parts of campus.

Nick Lang SGA President Financial Affairs Clinton Carter said the university ordered six more maps, bringing the total number of maps on campus to eight.

Facilities staff will install the maps by Feb. 20, he said.

See MAPS, page 8

AMANDALYN DORNER I Staff Photographer

Junior Savannah Herbst uses the campus map in front of Keller Hall. Facilities staff will install the maps by Feb. 20, officials said.

maps provided by una.edu

In a collective effort with the university, geography department and Student Government Association, campus maps are now available in key locations throughout the university. The maps are similar to this one, which is available at una.edu.

Student arrested for domestic violence charges ANNA BEAHM

News Editor news@florala.net

Officials said critical language Parter Abdullah Al Wafi is cleared to teach again.

“Everything worked out in his favor,” said Director of the Center for Critical Languages Craig Christy. “We are certainly happy to hear that.”

University officials last week removed Al Wafi the classroom following his arrest on a domestic violence charge last month, authorities said.

Abdullah Al Wafi, 31, 501 High St., is charged with third-degree domestic violence, a class A misdemeanor, according to Florence Police Department.

The rest of this story has been retracted due to a correction.

Al Wafi

▶

4 IMAGES

Feb. 4, 2016 • The Flor-Ala

Ample entrées

Sophomore Christian Davis and freshman Bryce Sadler grab a meal at Towers Café. Choosing to eat in this dining hall can be one tactic to avoid fast food options.

Options

▶

Students and faculty select a meal at Towers Cafe. There are many options to choose from, including the salad bar, fresh pizza or soups and sandwiches.

Hea thy Ch ices

Dining ▶

Freshmen Karli Jinright and Faith Trevarthen enjoy a conversation over dinner. Eating in the dining hall offers students variety and an opportunity to choose healthier options.

AMANDALYN DORNER

▶

Staff Photographer adorner@una.edu

Fruits and vegetables

Senior Richard Allen Stubbs reaches for a banana. Eating healthy foods on campus can help sustain energy levels and make college activities a little easier to complete.

College offers many temptations. You’re on your own and free to eat whatever and whenever you want. The options are endless. You can stack up the portions in the dining hall or choose from the numerus fast foods locations, like Chick-fil-A and Starbucks, or grab a meal in the Guillot University Center.

When adding all this freedom to the many life changes, stresses and higher expectations of college life, it is no wonder the normal college student gains weight.

Studies have shown that it’s typical for the average student to gain three to 10 pounds during their first two years of college, most of which students gain during the first semester of freshman year.

UNA has a great dining

hall, Towers Café, which serves well-balanced meals every day. Towers lets students eat at regularly scheduled times, have healthier portions and less fatty options. To forego the freshman 15, students can also eat healthier snacks like fruit and vegetables while studying or watching TV, get plenty of exercise and replace empty-calorie soft drinks with water. Taking time to slow down and enjoy a meal with a friend could also make a difference.

Food choices impact your life daily and affect the energy you have to tackle those hard days of studying, preparing and working hard. Your choices now also affect how you form eating habits for the future. By starting today to make those decisions on healthier foods, you create a lifetime of good eating habits and can avoid any unwanted weight gain.

NEWS 5

Feb. 4, 2016• The Flor-Ala

Administrative team determines class cancellations NOEL GEIGER

Student Writer nmiguel@una.edu

Classes were canceled after severe winter weather threatened the area Jan. 15.

When it comes to snow in Alabama, residents are not aware of how threatening it could be when driving on snow-covered roads. But, when it comes to students’ safety, the university takes precautions and stays alert to ensure no one gets hurt, said Vice President of Student Affairs David Shields.

“Can we keep walkways clear?”

Shields said. “That is the type of question that comes to my mind when this type of weather occurs.”

Shields said himself, President Kenneth Kitts, Chief of Police Kevin Gillilan and Vice President of Academic Affairs John Thornell collectively decide when to close the university.

The group views local weather reports and communicates with the county Emergency Management Agency and state police when discussing closure.

“When determining what is considered a risk there is no related

amount (of snow we consider),” Shields said. “Predicting is an art, not a science.

We try to err on the side of caution and try not to make the wrong call.”

Senior Courtney Michaels said because many students live in different areas across the Tennessee Valley, it is hard to distinguish when it is appropriate to cancel class.

“Better safe than sorry,” Michaels said. “We live in Alabama, and the weather is ridiculous to begin with.

Imagine if we hadn’t called off classes when the ice storm hit last year. It would have been terrible.”

“Cancel always,” said senior Nick Walton. “Don’t take the chance. If classes are already canceled, they shouldn’t re-open (even if bad weather does not occur).”

Those who commute or live offcampus have a more difficult time arriving to classes in harsh conditions than those who live on-campus.

Freshman Matt Hatchel, who lives in Mattielou Hall, said he thinks canceling classes is fair even to students living on campus, too.

“I honestly did not expect (the university would) because I was thinking

TEACHERS, continued from page 1 “Teachers go through four years of higher education at the minimum, plus various Praxis exams and field experiences before they are certified to teach in public schools,” Canoles said.

“Allowing someone who has not gone through the same training to teach in schools undervalues all the hard work that certified teachers do to ensure that they are qualified to educate children to the best of their ability.”

UNA alumna and Tennessee teacher Jennifer Thomas said she can see both sides of the resolution.

“I think there are definitely benefits and risks to it,” Thomas said. “I worked so hard and for so long to receive my teaching certificate, so on the inside I’m screaming that it wouldn’t be fair for someone to not go through the program yet still be able to teach.”

“However, there is a part of me that thinks that there are plenty of teachers

out there (who) could reach students in ways that we could never imagine,” Thomas said. “And isn’t that what’s most important anyways? Finding the best way to educate our students?”

Education major Alisyn Hayes said she thinks adjunct teachers will not be prepared enough for the classroom.

“Ultimately, I think that the teacher education program is so rigorous for a reason, and allowing people in the classroom without that training could be really detrimental to the students’ achievement,” Hayes said.

“I could see where this could be a good thing for schools struggling to fill positions and seeking out individuals with knowledge of a skill. However, with the lack of classroom management, assessment and instructional training, it may not work out as well as hoped.”

(like) someone who already lives on campus,” Hatchel said. “But I think canceling classes was a good idea for

people who have to travel far distances to campus for both safety and liability reasons.”

photo courtesy of Shannon Wells

Students have a snowball fight as snow continues to fall on campus in February 2015. Officials recently closed campus for potential winter weather, but little precipitation fell.

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Education students and professors discuss class material. The Counselor Education program prepares students to be counselors in K-12 school environments.

Each Zaxby’s restaurant is independently owned and operated under a license agreement with Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc. © 2015 Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc. “Zaxby’s” is a registered trademark of Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc.

6 NEWS

SGA

Feb. 4, 2016• The Flor-Ala

candidates PRESIDENT JOSE FIGUEROACIFUENTES

SARAH GREEN

VICE PRESIDENT

AUSTIN BULLOCK

TYLER DELANO

UPC

UPC

SECRETARY

JESSICA MCALISTER

WHITNEY PACIL

NICHOLAS SMITH

UPC

HUGO DANTE

SENATE

TREASURER

ELIZABETH CLAY

NIKKI MATHEWS

Voting Dates DAYTON TENNEY

Preliminaries: Feb. 22-24 Run-off: Feb. 29 - March 3

Viewpoints 7

Feb. 4, 2016 • The Flor-Ala

Review

Use outings to support restaurant servers

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kali Daniel MANAGING EDITOR Jasmine Fleming NEWS EDITOR Anna Beahm LIFE EDITOR Melissa Parker ASSOCIATE LIFE EDITOR Monday Sanderson SPORTS EDITOR Mike Ezekiel ONLINE EDITOR Emily Kazungu BUSINESS MANAGER Jordan Byrd CIRCULATION MANAGER Justin Blanchard GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Peyton Lawler Michael Meigs Kelsey Weathers CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER Kaitlin Douglass

MELISSA PARKER Life Editor life@florala.net

I was once told there are three jobs everyone should do once in their life: Dig a ditch, work in fast food and be a server.

While I have not had a paid opportunity to dig a ditch, I have worked in fast food and I was a server for a short time.

Most servers make a measly $2.14 per hour, less than a third of the $7.25 minimum wage paid to most fast-food workers.

Anyone who has ever

ADVISER Scott Morris

Content is determined by the student editorial staff of The Flor-Ala and has not been approved by the university.

Corrections The staff strives to maintain the integrity of The Flor-Ala through accurate and honest reporting. To report an error, call 256-765-4364 or email editor@florala. net.

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.

control, often play into the tipping equation. Was the food hot? Was it good? Did it come out in a timely fashion?

While all of these are important questions to ask, it’s also important to remember that servers are just people.

They aren’t superheroes who move at super speed, and contrary to what you believe, they do have other customers to take care of.

Customers, of course, do deserve a pleasant dining experience. They are paying good money for a meal and it should be worth the price.

As someone who has been a server and a customer, I understand both sides. Servers most often rely on tips to support themselves. My daughter has been a server for several years and, most of the time, does well. There have been days some customers have tipped her nearly 50

percent of their bill. There have also been days when some customers didn’t tip at all.

When my family and I go out to eat, I try to remember how hard being a server is.

If the server isn’t cheerful, I keep in mind he or she may be having a bad day. If the food isn’t good, I remember the server didn’t prepare it. If a drink happens to go empty, I look around at the other tables this one person is taking care of. And always I try to clean up our table so our server has one less mess to clean up.

Do I tip the usual 20 percent every time? No. But the server has to do a really horrible job before the tip goes below that. Sometimes, I tip more.

Next time you go out to eat, please tip your server. If you can’t afford to tip, don’t go out to eat.

Each day offers possibilities for faith sharing

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Amandalyn Dorner Shay Redd Jackson Townsend

Editorial Policy

worked as a server knows the struggles they face each day.

Servers often spend long hours on their feet, greeting every customer with a smile, hoping they’ll make enough in tips that day to pay their bills.

They are responsible for making the customers feel special, taking their food orders, keeping drinks full, serving their food, making small talk and, all-in-all, making diners’ experiences pleasant so they’ll want to return. Customers ultimately base their tip amount on the server’s performance.

Tips and whether to leave one, and how much to leave, are topics of many dining discussions. Most people feel they should tip in accordance with the server’s job performance. Did the customer’s drink stay full?

Was the server friendly? Other factors, most out of the server’s

MIKE EZEKIEL

Sports Editor sports@florala.net

Many students dread the day they walk toward the amphitheater on campus and see the man with a Bible in his hand, typically yelling at those listening.

Some might say, “Oh no, here we go again.” Others may think, “That babbling fool is up there again telling us all we are going to hell.” Many people tend to leave either laughing at the person or angry with him.

While it is a dreaded day for many, I welcome it.

First of all, I do believe in the First Amendment.

Everyone should have a right to say what he or she believes, as long as it doesn’t cross the line of threatening or disturbing the peace, specifically those in class.

Second, with the First Amendment in mind, I notice people become more open to sharing their religion and spiritual philosophies. Often times, religion can be a touchy subject, according to a study from learnlab.org.

According to the study, “Questions asking about income or the respondent’s religion may fall into (the sensitive questions) category; respondents may feel that such questions are simply none of the researcher’s business.

Questions in this category risk offending all respondents, regardless of their status on the variable in question.”

I, along with many, sometimes disagree with the way our bold friends at the amphitheater handle their business, but in spite of that, they impact our campus for the better.

As a Christian myself, I saw something encouraging walking through The Commons last semester the same day a preacher came to campus. I walked by three girls, one of whom seemed nervous about what the preacher said at the amphitheater and unsure about her faith.

The other two girls, who appeared to be Christians, were talking to her, trying to calm her down. They were answering the questions she had and helping her understand the things she wanted to know.

I walked away with a great feeling.

The following week,

I walked in Flowers Hall to wash my hands in the restroom. As I approached the sink, I saw a one-page letter written. Someone wanted to share their belief and provoke someone’s thoughts anonymously.

Although I am a Christian, I realize not everyone sees spiritual things the way I do.

I also realize other people may not be Christians. Not everyone has the same experiences or was raised the same way.

No matter what you believe, I suggest three things: Do not be ashamed of what you believe in, be open-minded and be respectful of other people and their beliefs.

At the end of the day, no one can change your beliefs.

Others can influence your choices, but only you can make that decision.

Congratulations to our Writer and Photographer of the Week!

Kaitlyn Davis & Shay Redd Interested in writing?

Stop by our writers’ meetings Sundays at 4 p.m. in the Student Publications Building 643 N. Wood Avenue behind Willingham Hall

8 NEWS

Feb. 4, 2016 • The Flor-Ala MAPS, continued from page 3

ELSEY, continued from page 1 The university punished Elsey by reducing his pay by $2,000 for a year, restricting his eligibility for pay increase for two years and denying his eligibility for summer teaching for 2007 and 2008.

In this reprimand, Cale wrote “any continuing demonstration of unacceptable behavior toward the University of North Alabama will be grounds for immediate termination.”

The university revoked Elsey’s tenure Aug. 21, 2015, and terminated him after a complaint was filed against him regarding the University’s Equal Opportunity, Harassment and NonDiscrimination Policy. They found him guilty of sexual harassment.

“This isn’t a common occurrence, but unfortunately in any organization of our size things like this do occasionally happen,” Rachal said. “The real test of an organization is how it responds when a concern is raised. We are confident that we have the processes in place to receive complaints, investigate, make good decisions and ultimately hold people accountable for their actions.”

According to the University Grievance and Due Process Procedures, “If proper request for a hearing is made, the hearing shall be afforded not sooner than 14 or later than 21 days from the date of receipt of the request.” However, Elsey’s due process trial was Dec. 14 — almost four months after his termination.

”

THE REAL TEST OF AN ORGANIZATION IS HOW IT RESPONDS WHEN A CONCERN IS RAISED.

WE ARE CONFIDENT THAT WE HAVE THE PROCESSES IN PLACE TO RECEIVE COMPLAINTS, INVESTIGATE, MAKE GOOD DECISIONS AND ULTIMATELY HOLD

PEOPLE ACCOUNTABLE FOR THEIR ACTIONS.

BRYAN RACHAL

DIRECTOR, UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING When asked, officials said they could not answer why there was a delay in the hearing because the information was protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act as well as Title IX. Elsey has not had access to campus nor campus technology — including email and computers — since Aug. 22, 2015, according to university records.

Kitts upheld the ruling to terminate Elsey Jan. 26, 2016.

Editor’s Note: Check florala.net for updates on this story.

“Apparently, (the maps) were a big hit with students and visitors, so the university wanted to continue the great work of the SGA and offer (the maps) in a few other key traffic areas across campus,” Carter said.

He said the geography department on campus designed the maps. The metal frames are built so the maps can be changed out as campus changes.

“We have mapped out a few areas that we think will help the students the most, but we have not finalized the exact areas for the maps,” Lang said.

Carter said campus and SGA officials have determined the location for five of the six new maps.

These locations are in front of Norton Auditorium, Flowers Hall, Lot K (behind the Guillot University Center), Collier Library and Towers Café, he said.

“The maps don’t currently have any provisions for blind students on campus,” Lang said. “This hasn’t been brought up as an issue. However, if there is a need, I am sure Disability Support Services will help us with providing these accommodations.”

The total cost for each additional map, metal signage and labor is $2,900 each, Carter said. The metal signage has lights that illuminate the signs even when it is dark.

He said he thinks investing funds in this project is good because the maps are used often and will serve the campus for a lifetime.

“The metal signage is sturdy and will be there forever,” Carter said. “It’s a one-time investment.”

He said the only real maintenance required to keep the maps updated is exchanging old maps for new ones as campus changes.

Lang said the university provided the funds for the additional maps, signage and labor.

“If SGA was willing to put some of their own funds into this project and felt very strongly about it, we felt the least the university could do is help them (continue this project),” Carter said.

Carter said he thinks it will be several years before the university adds more map locations.

”

APPARENTLY, (THE MAPS) WERE A BIG HIT WITH STUDENTS AND VISITORS, SO THE UNIVERSITY WANTED TO CONTINUE THE GREAT WORK OF THE

SGA

IN

REVIEW

• FRESHMAN FORUM - GOLF TOURNAMENT IS APRIL 2 AT BLACKBERRY TRAILS. COST OF ADMISSION PER TEAM IS $200.

• UPC - CONTINUED WORKING ON DETAILS FOR SPRING CONCERT. STEP SING IS FEB. 5-6 IN NORTON AUDITORIUM. • BOOK DRIVE IS FEB. 9 IN THE GUILLOT UNIVERSITY CENTER. • SENATE - THE SMOKING AND TOBACCO POLICY WILL COME TO THE FLOOR AT THE

FEB. 4 MEETING.

• “MEAT THE CANDIDATES” IS FEB. 18 FROM 6 - 8 P.M. IN THE GUC LOFT.

FOR MEETING BRIEFS AND UPDATES ON THE STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION, PLEASE VISIT FLORALA.NET

CAMPUS CRIME LOG • JAN. 25 DAMAGE TO VEHICLE GRANDVIEW APARTMENTS • JAN. 23 PARKING VIOLATION VEHICLE TOW

TWIN OAKS APARTMENTS • JAN. 22 HARASSMENT GRANDVIEW APARTMENTS • JAN. 22 DAMAGE TO PROPERTY CAMPUS • JAN. 19 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HARASSMENT

HAWTHORNE HALL SGA AND OFFER (THE MAPS) IN A FEW OTHER KEY TRAFFIC AREAS ACROSS CAMPUS. • JAN. 17

CLINTON CARTER

VICE PRESIDENT, BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL AFFAIRS

PUBLIC INTOXICATION MUSIC BUILDING USE

FULL CRIME LOG AVAILABLE AT UNA.EDU/POLICE/CRIMELOG

LIFE 9

Feb. 4, 2016 • The Flor-Ala

R ACE

TO 1956

Autherine Lucy first African-American admitted to University of Alabama.

Dec. 21 — Montgomery Bus Boycott ends in victory.

E QUALITY 1955

Dec. 1 — Police arrest Rosa Parks for refusing to move to the back of a Montgomery bus sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

1961

Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) organizes Freedom Rides in the South to test new Interstate Commerce Commission regulations and court orders barring segregation in interstate transportation. Mobs in several places, including Birmingham and Montgomery, beat riders.

1964

Congress passes the Civil Rights Act, declaring discrimination based on race illegal.

1963

June — Wallace stands in doors of Foster Auditorium at the University of Alabama in attempt to block Vivian Malone Jones and James Hood from registering.

Sept. 11 — Wendell Wilkie Gunn becomes first African-American to enroll at Florence State College (now UNA).

1965 Negro History Week becomes Black History Month.

November — Oscar Adams elected to Alabama Supreme Court becoming first African-American elected to statewide constitutional office in Alabama.

2016

1976

Wendell Wilkie Gunn awarded the Outstanding Student in Physics Award at Florence State and inducted into Kappa Mu Epsilon, national honorary mathematics fraternity — first black student to graduate from Florence State College.

March 7 — 600 demonstrators make first attempt of three to march from Selma to the capitol in Montgomery.

1982 2011

March 21 — The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. leads 3,200 marchers from Selma toward Montgomery in support of civil rights for black Americans.

Brandi Lewis becomes first African-American Miss UNA.

design by PEYTON LAWLER I Graphic Designer SHAY REDD I Staff Photographer

Students and faculty come together in service on Martin Luther King Day 2016. More than 200 volunteers packaged 30,000 meals for the Shoals community.

10 LIFE

Feb. 4, 2016 • The Flor-Ala

ACTING IT OUT

Performance shares stories Endowment brings of global womenʼs issues Shakespeare to campus WENDIE ROBINSON Student Writer wrobinson1@una.edu

UNA students and faculty will perform Eve Ensler’s “The Vagina Monologues” Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. in the Guillot University Performance Center.

“The Vagina Monologues” is a play based on interviews Ensler conducted with women addressing such concerns as women’s sexuality, rape and abuse.

Student tickets went on sale Feb. 1 at the Women’s Center for $4 at preperformance price. Tickets at the door will be $5 for students and $7 for anyone else wishing to attend.

On Valentine’s Day, 1998, Ensler,

“That’s the one word I want to get across to women, but also to men. It will open them up, it will make them more comfortable, it will encourage more communication between men and women and it will make them laugh.”

Music Library Specialist and Vocal faculty Eleanor McClellan, who is part of the cast, said growing up she would not even say the word “vagina,” but feels the message is important and something people of all genders need to hear.

“What I get out of it is an opening of myself,” she said. “When I was a young woman I wouldn’t have said a curse word, wouldn’t have said anything about my body or anything else. It is learning to love who you are totally and hopefully

”

ITʼS JUST SO EMPOWERING. THATʼS THE ONE WORD I WANT TO GET ACROSS TO WOMEN, BUT ALSO TO MEN. IT WILL OPEN THEM UP, IT WILL MAKE THEM MORE COMFORTABLE, IT WILL ENCOURAGE MORE COMMUNICATION BETWEEN MEN AND WOMEN AND IT WILL MAKE THEM LAUGH.

EMILY KELLEY

COORDINATOR, CENTER FOR WOMENʼS STUDIES along with a group of women in New York City, started V-Day, a global activist movement to end violence against women and girls. The day promotes creative events to increase awareness, raise money and revitalize the spirit of existing anti-violence organizations.

“V-Day generates broader attention for the fight to stop violence against women and girls, including rape, battery, incest, female genital mutilation (FGM) and sex slavery,” according to the website.

Each year, Ensler adds new monologues to the play addressing current global situations, said Coordinator for the Center for Women’s Studies Emily Kelley.

This year’s UNA performance features new pieces including “Myriam,” “The Memory of Her Face,” and “My Revolution Begins in the Body,” Kelley said. “(Myriam) is about Myriam Murlet who was an activist in Haiti who died in the earthquake,” she said. “She really brought women’s rights and activism to Haiti.”

“The Memory of Her Face” is about a woman whose husband throws acid in her face, Kelley said.

Kelley said she wants people to realize the Monologues are about more than just addressing female concerns.

“It’s just so empowering,” she said.

to step out and allow others to see that as well.”

Kelley said she urges students to come regardless of the subject matter.

“There’s so much I would like to say about it,” Kelley said. “(Mostly) in terms of really getting people to come out to support this and not think it is something that it isn’t and not get embarrassed for wanting to go.”

There are many important parts hidden in the “Monologues,” and students would be made more aware of the injustices women face by seeing the performance, said sophomore Molly Ratliff.

Ratliff said she participated in the program last year and is acting in it again this semester.

“I would love for students to walk away with a greater (understanding) for women,” she said. “The first step is understanding. “The next step is taking a stand.”

Sociology Department Chair Yaschica Williams said the “Monologues” mean respect and empowerment to her.

“Hearing the voices of women who would otherwise be silent is a humbling experience,” she said. “There is nothing left untouched by the ‘Monologues’ as it relates violence against women to sexuality, relationships and what many would perceive as more taboo topics.”

MONDAY SANDERSON Associate Life Editor life@florala.net

“O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?” Juliet can find Romeo at Norton Auditorium Feb. 9 at 7 p.m.

The Aquila Theatre Company is performing their version of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” at UNA for the second time.

“Romeo and Juliet” is a Shakespearean play about two “star-cross’d lovers.”

The play follows a young couple as they try to overcome the feud between their families, the Montagues and Capulets.

“The Aquila Theatre Company is a highly trained troupe of actors,” said Events Coordinator Jayne Jackson.

“Most of the actors that participate are either from New York or London.”

The company has been coming to UNA for 16 years, said Director of University Events Bret Jennings.

Jackson said the Albert S. Johnston Endowment provides money which allows the troupe to come to UNA. The endowment honors the memory of Albert S. Johnston Jr., a previous Shakespeare professor and department chair of English at UNA, according to UNA Pressroom.

“The endowment requires us to do one Shakespeare thing a year,” Jennings said. “It’s very expensive to bring them, so they only come once a year.”

Jackson said they loved the group’s acting and dynamic after watching a performance.

“We used to have the Alabama Shakespeare Festival,” she said. “This was when they had a touring show, but they stopped touring. That’s why we went looking for a company that does Shakespeare. We found them, and we’ve

been working with them ever since.”

Graduate student Amy Goodman said she is anticipating this production.

“They performed a version of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ once before, and it’s the only performance of theirs I’ve missed since I started going to see them at UNA, so I really want to see this one,” she said.

Jackson said the group puts an interesting twist on the plays by changing the setting, but not the language.

Goodman said watching the group is an amazing experience.

“Aquila also does an amazing job of tying their set changes into the play itself,” she said. “I felt emotional connections to the characters that I hadn’t felt before.”

Jackson said they rotate Shakespeare’s plays.

“They cycle through the betterknown works,” she said. “They have done ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ and ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ and others.”

Senior Bethany Pierce said the play interests her.

“I haven’t been to an Aquila Theatre Company’s play before, but I am looking forward to seeing their interpretation of ‘Romeo and Juliet,’” she said.

Jennings said this provides students the opportunity to experience a professional production at a cheap price.

“If you go to one of the bigger cities to see a play, you’ll be charged $40 or $50,” he said. “We’re only charging students $5 to see this Shakespeare production.

The endowment allows us to sell these tickets at these low prices.”

Jackson said students will have their minds changed about Shakespeare.

“It will be understandable, it will be exciting and it will be riveting,” she said.

“The approach that they take to their performances is innovative and utterly brilliant.”

photo courtesy of Richard TermineAquila Theatre 2015

Cast members perform a scene from Aquila Theatre Company’s “Romeo and Juliet.” The company will perform the play at Norton Auditorium Feb. 9 at 7 p.m.

LIFE 11

Feb. 4, 2016 • The Flor-Ala

Study examines relationship between grades, looks MELISSA PARKER/WENDIE ROBINSON Life Editor/Student Writer life@florala.net

With apps like “Hot or Not,” that allow peers to rate one another based on looks alone, it should be no surprise how much emphasis is placed on a person’s appearance.

Does this extend into the college classroom? According to one study, it does.

Metropolitan State University of Denver Associate professor Christina Peters and co-author Rey HernandezJulian conducted a study asking individuals over 18, who did not work at or attend the university, to rate identity card photos of students on a scale of 1 – 10.

Peters and Hernandez-Julian also examined 168,000 course grades awarded to those same students, using ACT scores to show academic ability. The study found young women considered pretty had a 0.024 increase in grades on a 4.0 scale, earning grades that are 0.005 higher than average-looking students.

However, in online classes, where students cannot be seen, more attractive students perform relatively worse than in traditional environments.

While the results are related, it is unknown what is causing the group of attractive students to have higher grades, said professor of sociology Alex Takeuchi. Many different factors can be contributing to the results.

“Many studies indicate people who are better looking tend to have better treatment in society, and they tend to have slightly better opportunities,” he said.

“They are more likely to succeed, perhaps because they have better opportunities, and they are treated probably more positively because of their looks.”

The study cannot be described as scientific research, said Vice President of Academic Affairs John Thornell.

“For example, it said (the authors) examined photo ID cards. That is going to be pretty unscientific. I know lots of students who don’t put too much effort into their ID cards.”

Thornell said this seems to be more of a societal issue with its objectification of women and its elevation of appearance.

“I think this really is more of a question for society in general than it is for UNA and grades of students based upon appearance,” he said. “I think it does raise the whole issue of how our society puts value on appearance in things such as job interviews or how you get waited on in a restaurant maybe.”

Rating peers on a physically attractive level starts at a young age, Takeuchi said.

“The entire social psychological study on physical attractiveness was actually by accident,” he said. “Child psychologists found those kids in preschool that have higher adjustment tend to have a higher physical attractiveness level rated by their peer kids.”

Cross-cultural and cross-racial studies, using photos of the same

people, indicate people will consistently rank those people in similar order of appearance, Takeuchi said.

“The implication is humans can tell who is good looking and who is not good looking,” he said. “We tend to have some kind of standard, which can dynamically change depending on popular culture and popular trends.”

”

MANY STUDIES INDICATE PEOPLE WHO ARE

BETTER LOOKING TEND TO HAVE BETTER TREATMENT IN SOCIETY, AND THEY TEND TO HAVE SLIGHTLY

BETTER OPPORTUNITIES. THEY ARE MORE LIKELY TO SUCCEED PERHAPS BECAUSE THEY HAVE BETTER OPPORTUNITIES, AND THEY ARE TREATED MORE

POSITIVELY BECAUSE OF THEIR LOOKS.

ALEX TAKEUCHI

PROFESSOR, SOCIOLOGY Studies show people who are in better positions in terms of financial and other social resources tend to perform better in school, Takeuchi said.

Students whose parents pay for school tend to perform better than students who juggle two or three part-time jobs, school and studying, he said.

The name for the concept of how people form an impression of someone just on their physical appearance is called the halo effect, said Merchandising instructor Laura McKee. “The halo effect is actually a term in psychology, but we talk about it in our professional dress class,” she said. “It talks about (how) the first time you meet someone, you sum up their talents and traits just by the way they look.”

It occurs with both males and females, she said.

Senior Steven Webber said this holds true for his job at Longhorn Steak House.

“How I look reflects the tips I receive,” he said. “A three-day scruff receives the best tips, even more than being clean-shaven.”

McKee said she asks her students if they make assumptions about their instructors on the first day of class as to what kind of teacher they will be based on their physical appearance. The answer is yes.

To read the rest of the story, visit florala.net.

The study analyzed

6,777

students over the span of

12 semesters

or the same amount of time it would take to earn a master’s degree The study also found white people earned

0.2

more than non-white people.

over half

It also found

of online students received

C,D or F

compared to 32 percent in-class.

design by MICHAEL MEIGS and PEYTON LAWLER I Graphic Designers

12 Sports Scoreboard Jan. 28-31 Jan. 28

Women’s BB at West Alabama 73-71 Win (OT) Men’s BB at Delta State 100-74 Loss

Jan. 30

PLAY BALL!

Feb. 4, 2016 • The Flor-Ala

Softball vs. North Georgia 12-2 Win Softball vs. Augusta University 12-1 Win Women’s BB at West Georgia 67-66 Loss Men’s BB at West Georgia 97-91 Win

Women’s Tennis at Belmont 5-2 Loss

Jan. 31

Softball vs. Armstrong State 2-1 Win Softball at Columbus State 6-1 Win Men’s Tennis at UAB 5-2 Loss

Upcoming Basketball

Feb. 4 at Shorter

Women Tipoff @ 6 p.m.

Men Tipoff @ 8 p.m.

Feb. 6 at Lee Women Tipoff @ 1 p.m.

Men Tipoff @ 3 p.m.

Softball

Feb. 4 at Spring Hill (Mobile) Feb. 5-7 Gulf Coast Invitational (Gulf Shores)

Baseball

Feb. 6 vs. Miles College (DH) Feb. 7 vs. Stillman (DH)

Tennis

Feb. 6 Women vs. West Georgia Feb. 7 Men vs. Martin Methodist

Games continued at roarlions.com

AMANDALYN DORNER I Staff Photographer

Senior right fielder Dylan Calhoun rounds third base during a game against LeMoyne-Owen last season. Calhoun is one of 17 returning lettermen for the Lions heading into the 2016 season.

Baseball team winds up for new season SAVANNAH VICKERY Student Writer svickery@una.edu

The UNA baseball team approaches the 2016 season with mixed feelings of gain and loss.

As with every sport, it can be tough to rebuild a team after losing players that were a part of the program for a long time.

UNA head coach Mike Keehn said the team would have a few holes to fill, specifically in the bullpen. Despite the pitching situation, Keehn said he is confident in the replacements.

“We lost some pretty big guys that we’re going to have to replace, especially on the mound,” Keehn said. “We probably have, velocity-wise, as much velocity as we’ve ever had. Austin Carpenter will probably move to the number one starting role.”

Behind Carpenter, senior Riley Sanderson returns as the lone starter from last season.

Carpenter pitched as a reliever last season, but said he is ready to become an ace.

“I haven’t started a lot since high school, but I like it,” Carpenter said. “It shows (Coach Keehn) trusts me to be in this spot. I’ve waited my whole college career for this, and I feel like I’ve made the transition.”

The Lions are losing the likes of right-handed pitcher and first baseman Kyle Conkle, left-handed pitcher Brantley Claunch and closer Jacob Westerhouse, among others.

Outside the bullpen, Keehn said there is competition for several positions, including shortstop, third base and left field. The team lost All-Gulf South Conference players Dylan Boston and Brett Guzay, as both graduated.

The Lions return 17 lettermen from last season, including key contributors from last year’s lineup. Eight seniors, Dylan Calhoun, Brandon Pugh, Kyle Hubbach, Kyle Crabtree, Jess Smith, Kevin Hall, Taylor Hayes and Heath Wood all saw significant playing time last season and hope to take a leadership role in 2016.

In 2015, Calhoun was the

team’s leading hitter with a .381 batting average. Despite strong numbers, Calhoun said there are a few things he needs to work on as an individual.

which UNA failed to do last season.

“The first half (of the season), we were 21-5 going into UAH,” he said. “After we lost to UAH, it was like we had the wind knocked out of us. We We probably have, velocity- just couldn’t get anything going after that. The wheels started wise, as much velocity as we’ve ever falling off. had. Austin Carpenter will probably “We’re definitely better move to the number one starting from that. We always talk about how we don’t want to go from role. battling to host in the conference tournament and from being in to missing the tournament.” ike eehn firstCarpenter said he took ead oach offense to the eighth place GSC preseason ranking.

“Hitting-wise, I need to lay “It was like a slap in the off the high fastball,” he said. face,” Carpenter said. “I like “I swing at that way too much. being the underdog though. I I’m more of a contact hitter and feel like pretty much all of (the more of a guy who tries not to upperclassmen) have played in a strike out a lot. I try to put the conference game at some point, ball in play and make something which is going to help us out a happen.” lot.”

The Lions went 27-16 and The Lions hope to start the finished seventh in the GSC season on a high-note as they standings last year after going face Miles College in a double6-11 in their last 17 games. header at home Feb 6. The Lions Calhoun said one of the welcome Stillman College to team’s goals is to finish strong, Mike Lane Field Feb 7.

”

M K H

C

SPORTS 13

Feb. 4, 2016 • The Flor-Ala

Lexington native gains local support MIKE EZEKIEL

Sports Editor sports@florala.net

”

THERE ARE A BUNCH OF PEOPLE THAT COME TO THE GAMES FROM LEXINGTON. IF I SEE THEM OUT, THEY ALWAYS ASK ME ABOUT SCHOOL AND BASKETBALL, AND THEY WISH ME GOOD LUCK. THAT MEANS A LOT TO ME.

SAVANNAH STULTS FRESHMAN GUARD

AMANDALYN DORNER I Staff Photographer

Redshirt freshman guard Savannah Stults looks on as teammates shoot around after practice Jan. 26. Stults played at Lexington High School, a county school near the UNA campus, and she draws a crowd of supporters from the area.

Many travel from various states or countries to become a student-athlete on the collegiate level. In UNA’s case, some coaches find gems in their own backyard.

Redshirt freshman Savannah Stults, a guard on the women’s basketball team, earned a spot on the UNA roster last season. A Lexington native, Stults is the only player on either basketball team whose hometown is within an hour of campus.

Stults said having local supporters she earned in high school follow her college career means a lot to her.

“There are a bunch of people that come to the games from Lexington,” she said.

“If I see them out, they always ask me about school and basketball, and they wish me good luck. That means a lot to me.”

Stults said basketball is a family affair. Her two younger sisters, Morgan and Audrey Stults, both play. Her dad, Beck Stults, played in high school and helped her learn the game.

“My dad coached me when I was younger,” she said.

“He’s always been at my games. There would be times we would go (to the gym) on a Sunday night and work on ball handling and shooting. He’s kind of a strict coach, so I feel like when Coach Tiber is

yelling at me, I’m used to it.”

UNA did not initially recruit Stults out of high school, but rather discovered her through a tryout. Stults proceeded to walk-on and use a redshirt last season.

“I didn’t really know about Savannah early on,” said UNA coach Missy Tiber.

“I just got some word on her that she was a real hard-nosed kid. We brought her in and tried her out after her senior year.”

This season, Stults has been a spark off the bench for the Lions. After having limited minutes early on, she worked her way into a six-man role after the Christmas break. The 5’5’’ guard averages 14 minutes per game and has over three rebounds per game in her last six.

While Stults can get aggressive on the court when she needs to, her teammates say she is usually the quietest player on the team. Stults is beginning to break her shell after having a season under her belt, said sophomore guard Jaclyn Heath.

“Last year, she was really quiet and did not talk that much,” Heath said.

“This year, she has really opened up to everyone. She’s a great friend and someone I know I can always trust and someone that I know I will continue to be friends with for the rest of my life.”

Heath said Stults is willing to do what other players will not.

“On the court she brings a lot of effort and passion every single day,” Heath said. “You can always count on her to dive for loose balls and do the dirty work, like rebounding and defense. She has a lot of heart and toughness to her.”

Tiber said Stults continues to improve not only through practice and experience, but also through maintaining a positive attitude.

“I think what makes her a special player is that she has absolutely zero ego,” Tiber said. “It’s not about her. It’s just about going out and working hard to help her team. I think two years down the road, we’re going to be talking about a very special player.”

Tennis teams ready to serve up competition XAVIER WHERRY Staff Writer xwherry@una.edu

The power of positivity has taken over for the UNA tennis team as they begin a new campaign for a successful 2016 season.

After finishing 13-6 (men) and 10-8 (women) in the 2015 season, the teams are expecting improvement in all aspects.

Both the men’s and women’s teams bring experience to 2016 as the men return seven starters, while the women bring back four.

UNA head coach Bryce Bishop said in tennis, there is always room for a team to enhance its skills.

“No matter what team you are, you have to get better,” Bishop said. “It’s not

just about hitting the ball. You have to get stronger and get in shape. Everybody can improve.”

The women’s team started the season against Belmont Jan. 30, falling 5-2. The men’s team lost its opener to AlabamaBirmingham 5-2 Jan. 31.

Guillaume Dechoz, a senior from Mulhouse, France, finished last season ranked in the top 50 and has higher individual goals for 2016.

“This year, I will try to get better and beat (Division I) schools,” Dechoz said.

“I want to be ranked even higher than last year.”

Bishop said Dechoz, who represented the Lions last season on the All-GSC team, should be the No. 1 singles seed.

See TENNIS, page 14

AMANDALYN DORNER I Staff Photographer

Junior Olivera Ngouabeu warms up during a practice last season. The women’s tennis team returns four players to a squad that finished 10-8 last season.

14 Sports

Feb. 4, 2016 • The Flor-Ala

JACKSON TOWNSEND I Staff Photographer

Senior forward Bilal Richardson gets pumped up with his teammates as the public address announcer called the starting lineups against Shorter Dec. 19. Richardson and the Lions are tied for second place in the Gulf South Conference standings after a 97-91 win over West Georgia Jan. 30.

Lions jockey for conference positioning MIKE EZEKIEL

Sports Editor sports@florala.net

While many college basketball fans look forward to March Madness, the month of February can be just as fun.

The Gulf South Conference standings are beginning to take shape as teams attempt to separate from the pack in their next seven conference games. The UNA men’s basketball team (13-8, 10-5 GSC) is coming off a 97-91 win over West Georgia Jan. 30.

At this point, it appears the Lions are in good shape, but they will not rest easy, said UNA head coach Bobby Champagne.

“There’s a small margin of error every night (in the GSC),” Champagne said.

“There’s no team in this league that’s real dominant, and there’s also no team in this

league that’s real weak.”

UNA is undefeated in home conference games so far, holding a 7-0 record. On the flipside, the Lions struggle on the road with a 3-5 record away from Flowers Hall.

Champagne said while winning at home is important in order to make the postseason tournament, the team that weathers the storm toward the end will be the most successful.

“You’ll be able to tell in the next seven games remaining, the teams who remain healthy and the teams who remain mentally and physically strong (will succeed),” he said. “Every single night is a 40-minute drain mentally and physically.”

The Lions face Shorter and Lee on the road before coming back to Flowers Hall for a four-game home stand. UNA ends the regular season on the road in a

key game against Alabama-Huntsville.

With a lot of new faces joining the Lions in 2016, what the team has accomplished so far is exceptional, said freshman Dakota Holtzclaw.

“I think it’s really impressive in the sense that we’re a whole bunch of new guys with only two returners,” he said.

“We’ve come together on the court and off the court.”

Holtzclaw said it is an exciting experience to be in the midst of a standings race for the first time in his career, but he does not plan to change his routine for the occasion.

“I just go and practice every game the same,” Holtzclaw said. “The next one is just as important as the last one.

You don’t want to look too much into the future or in the past but just focus on the task at hand and get the job done.”

Beating a top GSC team like West

Georgia last week was important for UNA, but the Lions consider every game paramount, said junior Da’Shaun Griffin. “(The West Georgia game) is just as important as this game or that game, or any other game that comes,” Griffin said.

“We have to take it one game at a time.”

Champagne said the key to victory is not necessarily taking matters one game at a time but rather each moment leading up to the games ahead.

“If you want to use that cliché, you can, but as long as the season’s in, it’s really one day at a time,” he said. “The struggle is to keep everyone focused.

We all want to concentrate on the game, but it’s really practice that gets you prepared.”

The Lions begin the second half of their four-game conference road swing against Shorter Feb. 4 before traveling to Lee Feb. 6.

all of her matches.

“I was upset with how I finished last year,” she said. “I started off the season doing extremely well, but it didn’t end the way I wanted it to. Because of how the season ended, it drives me to play better this season.”

Ngouabeu said adapting to a different culture while improving as a player was tough early in her career but has been a good learning experience.

“My freshman year here, I didn’t speak English very well, and I was nervous,” she said. “Now I know more, and my friendships with my teammates

have helped me relax while on the court.”

Ngouabeu said, much like the men’s, the women’s team’s ultimate goal is to make regionals.

TENNIS, continued from page 13 “Guillaume is our leader,” Bishop said. “He gives tremendous effort in practice, he’s focused in practice and there’s a reason why he’s having a lot of success.”

While he expects individual success, Dechoz said he looks for the team to triumph as a unit.

“This year, I hope we can make the regionals,” he said. “Last year, we missed (regionals) by one spot. We were (ranked) number seven and they only take six. I also think we have a better team than last year. We have developed good team chemistry.”

It will not be an easy task for the men, as the Gulf South Conference appears to be tough as usual. UNA plays two opponents, West Florida and Valdosta, ranked in the top 10.

UNA will start the season ranked 38.

On the women’s side, Bishop said he also sees an experienced group.

“For the girl’s team, we have more depth,” Bishop said. “The girls had a solid year last year. They finished fourth in the GSC.” Junior Olivera Ngouabeu, a Paris, France, native who is the No. 1 seed for the women’s team, said her goal is to win

UPCOMING: Women’s vs. West Georgia Feb. 6 at Home Men’s

vs.

Martin Methodist Feb. 8 at Home

EXTRA 15

Feb. 4, 2016 • The Flor-Ala

Thurs., Feb. 4 3:30 p.m.

SGA Senate meeting GUC 200 4 p.m.

Circle K Meeting @ Stone Lodge (Upper)

Fri., Feb. 5 7 p.m.

Step Sing 2016 Norton Auditorium

Sat., Feb. 6 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Downtown Chocolate Crawl

The Flor-Ala file photo

Local children in the Shoals area voted Alpha Gamma Delta as the Kids Choice Award winner in 2015. They also won first place in the women’s division with their Lion King-themed performance “Beyond Pride Rock.”

1 p.m.

UNA Baseball vs.

Miles College (DH)

8 p.m.

Fellowship of Christian Athletes

7 p.m.

Step Sing 2016 Norton Auditorium

8 p.m.

Fellowship of Christian Athletes Commons Rm 330

7 p.m.

Aquila Theatre’s “Romeo and Juliet” Norton Auditorium

8 p.m.

ENCOUNTER Stone Lodge (Upper)

9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Alpha Epsilon Bake Sale GUC

Wed., Feb.10

Sun., Feb. 7

Mon., Feb. 8

Tues., Feb. 9

1 p.m.

UNA Baseball vs.

Stillman College (DH)

11 a.m.

College Democrats Vote-a-thon GUC Atrium

1 — 2:30 p.m.

Executive Committee GUC Performance Center

4 p.m.

The Flor-Ala writers’ meeting Student Publications Building

1 p.m.

“Movement” George S. Lindsey Theatre

4:30 p.m.

Hispanic Culture Organization Stone Lodge (Upper)

5 p.m.

College Democrats mtg Commons Rm 307

6:30 p.m.

UNA Swim Club GUC 200

5:30 p.m.

Super Bowl 50

1 p.m.

“Movement” George S. Lindsey Theatre 4:30 p.m.

SGA Freshman Forum GUC 200

8 p.m.

ENCOUNTER Stone Lodge (Upper)

16 EXTRA

SOCIAL MEDIA OF THE WEEK

Feb. 4, 2016 • The Flor-Ala