Feb9issue by The Flor-Ala

Love issue p. 2 - 5 NASA partnership p. 7 Celebrity guest speaker p. 9 National Signing Day p. 11 February 9, 2017 Vol. 85, Issue 11

Couple works together for past 28 years MONDAY SANDERSON Life Editor life@ﬂorala.net

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF JASMINE FLEMING MANAGING EDITOR MIKE EZEKIEL NEWS EDITOR BREANNA LITTRELL LIFE EDITOR MONDAY SANDERSON ASSOCIATE LIFE EDITORS TYLER HARGETT HANNAH ZIMMER SPORTS EDITOR ANDREW FULMER ASSOCIATE SPORTS EDITOR JACOB COLE SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR MADI WINKLER JUNIOR SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR ASHLEE CARTER BUSINESS MANAGER KARA DUCKETT CIRCULATION MANAGER ALLEN CHILDERS GRAPHIC DESIGNERS MICHAEL MEIGS DAVID SAN MIGUEL JACKIE WILLIS JUNIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS DYLAN BAKER KENDALL BROWN CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER MELANIE HODGES STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS ANDREA BELK HILLARY TAYLOR VIDEOGRAPHER SIERRA HILL ADVISER SCOTT MORRIS COVER ART BY JACKIE WILLIS

The Flor-Ala is published biweekly on Thursdays at 111 locations on campus and off.

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

Every day students can see couples walking around campus hand in hand, but not many notice the couples that work at the school. Whether they work in the same department, like the Rieffs, or on opposite sides of the campus, like the Garfrericks, these couples are here and lead normal lives while working at the same university. Jeff Hodges, assistant athletics director for sports communication, and Karen Hodges, associate director for creative services, are one such couple. Karen Hodges said the couple both went to school at UNA. “He was a junior transfer from Calhoun, and I was a second-semester freshman (when we met),” she said. Jeff Hodges said the couple met on a snow day in January 1982. “I and a bunch of guys from the dorm wanted to go out on the football field,” he said. “There were some girls leaving, and they were playing with a football. I had went up to Karen and asked her if I could borrow it. I of course had to return it to her later, and we ended up dating after that.” Karen Hodges said they married June 2, 1984, in her junior year. “When Jeff first began working here, he got called into the president’s office to discuss his dating college girls,” she said. “Jeff had told the president, ‘We started dating when we were students,’ and it was excused.” Jeff Hodges said they have worked together since 1988, and it has been an enjoyable experience. “A lot of people are like, ‘Oh, I would go crazy if I worked with my spouse,’ but with my job, I work a lot of nights and weekends, and I travel,” he said. “So, being able to see her every day is great. We always eat lunch together, either on campus or at home, since we live a block from campus.” Karen Hodges said they have been eating lunches together ever since their offices were next to each other. “When he moved over to the athletics annex from Keller, I went through withdrawals,” she said. “It was an adjustment not to see him during the day. “When I moved to Rogers Hall, it was kind of sad, too. We spent 20 years together in the same building and the same floor, so we very rarely miss (lunch together).” Their daughter, and UNA sophomore, Melanie Hodges said she became familiar with UNA because of this. “Having parents here made it my home,” she said. “Once I began going to school here, it became one even more so.” Karen Hodges said the couple enjoys watching sports together. “We both enjoy watching college football,” Jeff Hodges said. “Her family is all Auburn fans and graduates, and

Courtesy of Karen and Jeff Hodges

Jeff Hodges, assistant athletics director for sports communication, and Karen Hodges, associate director for creative services, have been married since June 2, 1984. “He was a junior transfer from Calhoun, and I was a second-semester freshman (when we met at UNA),” Karen Hodges said. my family is all Alabama fans and graduates, but we’re big UNA fans. We’re purple and gold through and through.” Melanie Hodges said her parents do not require anything extravagant. Karen Hodges said they overall have simple lives. “While we have very complex children, we are not that complex,” she said. Jeff Hodges said their children

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have all studied at UNA. “Our son is a UNA graduate, and both of our daughters are current UNA students,” he said. “The school has been great for all three of our children and provides them great opportunities for what they want to do. It couldn’t have worked out any better for us.” Editor’s Note: Melanie Hodges is the 2016-17 Chief Photographer for The Flor-Ala.

We spent 20 years together in the same building and the same ﬂoor, so we very rarely miss (lunch together). Karen Hodges | Associate Director for Creative Services

3 Gift-giving that won’t empty the wallet MADI WINKLER Social Media Coordinator online@florala.net As Valentine’s Day approaches, so do the anxieties of buying that special someone the perfect gift. Undoubtedly, one of the hardest factors to overcome during the month of February is the college budget. While a five-star dinner and 14 karat gold jewelry may be out of the question, there are many ways to make the dollar stretch a little further without breaking the bank or taking out more loans during college. Here’s how to make the honey happy without overdraft fees.

Couples or friends could prepare a Valentine’s Day feast together. With the lack of kitchen

space in the residence halls, the meal does not have to be anything fancy. A pot of Hamburger Helper or quesadillas would be the perfect meal for students on a budget. Just refrain from lighting candles. The resident adviser would probably appreciate not having to write citations during Valentine’s Day.

Sweets are definitely popular during February. Instead of dropping a load of cash on a box of weird flavored chocolate with the orange filling (yes, that is a thing), buy a box of brownie or red velvet cake mix and create homemade sweet treats. Couples can bake together, making this the perfect addition to any Valentine’s Day.

Flowers do not have to be from an expensive florist. Depending on the type, the

cost of a nice bouquet can range from $5 - $20 at Walmart.

chance to show someone love straight from the heart.

Try recreating a special date or memory. If flowers and sweets are out of the question, This is thoughtful, and it shows a lot of creativity. Anyone would surely remember this adorable gesture.

Bundle up and take a romantic stroll. It is no secret downtown Florence and UNA’s campus lend the perfect amount of romantic lighting for a Valentine’s Day date. Grab his or her hand and start hiking.

Have a romantic comedy movie marathon. Whether with friends or with a significant other, there will surely be tons of laughs and love to go around.

A simple hand-written card, note or poem is sure to make anyone swoon. People love sentiments that are thoughtful and caring. This is a great

Get creative. Craft a Valentine something special if with a hand-made trinket or project straight from the heart. The amount of time spent on the piece shows, and he or she will notice. While these sentiments are sweet, do not forget to show significant others some love every day of the year. Valentine’s day is about love, not gifts.

The Flor-Ala staff’s Valentine’s Day plans

Editor-in Chief Jasmine Fleming

Managing Editor Mike Ezekiel

News Editor Breanna Littrell

Graphic Designer Jackie Willis

“I don’t have plans for the day, but the weekend after, homegirl Monday Sanderson and I plan to eat at Rice Box and watch sappy movies,” she said. “Spending time with friends is pretty much the best.”

“I hope to spend Valentine’s Day with my amazing girlfriend stargazing, which is one of our favorite pastimes, when we actually have free time from our busy schedules,” he said.

“I have to work, so the boyfriend and I will celebrate over the weekend instead,” she said. “Much chocolate will be consumed all week to make up for working.”

“For Valentine’s Day, I won’t get to see my significant other,” she said. “I’ll spend my time messaging them but also spending time with the people I love and can actually be with. Platonic relationships are just as important as romantic ones.”

Sports Editor Andrew Fulmer

Life Editor Monday Sanderson

Social Media Coordinator Madi Winkler

Graphic Designer Michael Meigs

“I’ll be sitting at home with a lovely lady in one hand, a cold beer in the other and wishing my birthday wasn’t on Valentine’s Day,” he said.

“If I didn’t have a night class, I would make brownies for my friends and decorate them with them,” she said. “I will enjoy the day after, though, and get as much discounted candy as I can buy.”

“My plans consist of attending class and doing homework I probably procrastinated on,” she said. “I think my boyfriend and I are going out to dinner and giving each other candy, which is basically a normal day for us.”

“I plan on spending the night watching movies and eating ice cream, just like I did last year,” he said. “I’ll probably listen to music while I watch movies.”

JACKIE WILLIS | Graphic Designer

MELANIE HODGES | Chief Photographer

Surviving breakups, one lyric at a time 3. 5. JASMINE FLEMING Editor -In-Chief editor@ﬂorala.net

Breakups can be hard, especially in February. Many things can help the moving on process, such as spending time with friends and family, engaging in favorite pastimes or even learning a new skill to have a mental break. Another aid can be music. No one can ignore powerful lyrics and the emotional power they have. Check out this guide to hear some suggested songs to deal with the many emotions that can take over during a breakup.

“How can you Mend a Broken Heart”

The Bee Gees’ classic breakup song is a must during the transition from coupledom to single life. Just listening to Al Green’s version when writing this list had me tearful. The title lyrics, as well as

some like “How can you stop the rain from falling down? How can you stop the sun from shining?” are beautiful in that they show the singer feels his normal world no longer works the same without the other person’s love. This is similar to how a breakup feels, so this song is great for wallowing.

“End of the Road”

After the misery comes the acceptance, and maybe even pleas for a second change. The chorus lyrics from the Boyz II Men hit show this well: “Although we’ve come/To the end of the road/Still I can’t let go/It’s unnatural/You belong to me/I belong to you.” The lyrics describe someone who knows the relationship is over but still isn’t ready to believe it’s true. That’s also an acceptable state to be in as long as both people respect any wishes for space. If the other person no longer wants to communicate, listening to this song might help the

listener move on.

“I will Survive”

Once the newly single accept their fate, this is the perfect song for self-empowerment. If that person wasn’t “the one,” that’s OK. Listen to Gloria Ganyor when she says, “I will survive/Oh, as long as I know how to love, I know I’ll stay alive.” There will be more to discover and love in life than the people in the past.

“No Surprise”

This Daughtry entry to the list is great to embrace for those relationships that ended amicably. Instead of exbashing, it says, “Yeah you and I will be a tough act to follow/ But I know in time we’ll find this was no surprise.” The song will encourage listeners to

appreciate that past relationship and move on from it.

“Before He Cheats”

If the lyrics aren’t clear enough, the video to this song depict someone destroying a cheating partners vehicle. It’s satisfying to watch as she busts glass, scratches paint and rips seats apart. Although it might not be the healthiest mindset to enter, singing along with Carrie Underwood as she documents the damage in the lyrics might just release some hurt and anger from the not-so-amicable separation. Editor’s Note: Neither The FlorAla nor I support or encourage damage to others’ property or acts of violence.

Studentsʼ biggest dating disasters Dominic Summerhill (Senior)

Jane Burton (Junior)

Constance Bailey (Junior)

Cody Wagner (Sophomore)

“I went to McFarland with a girl and we went walking in the grass. She told me two hours later that she was allergic to grass. I had no idea.”

“This one guy was my first crush, and I was really into him. He was my first kiss, and his breath smelled like eggs. It was so bad I laughed, and so he just left.”

“The first time I met my husband, he slid into my booth at Burger King and just started staring at me and being weird. We’ve been married five years.”

“I was 16 and was meeting this girl at the theater. She had the ‘Hershey squirts’ and spent the entire time going to the bathroom.”

Emerson Chambers (Junior)

Malik Holloway (Freshman)

Austin Andrews (Sophomore)

Hallie Brown (Senior)

“So I was dating this guy for like a week, and he tried to kiss me. I didn’t kiss him back though. It was the worst kiss I’ve ever had.”

“I went to the Cheesecake Factory, and the date was going good, but he went to the bathroom and never came back. I got stuck with a $75 check.”

“I was driving down the road on a date, and I looked over and saw this woman screaming at us saying her baby was kidnapped.”

“I went on one date where we asked the basic questions, but after that we didn’t talk at all. He asked if I wanted to do anything else, and I said, ‘Nah.’”

MICHAEL MEIGS | Graphic Designer

Information compiled by Managing Editor Mike Ezekiel

MELANIE HODGES | Chief Photographer

We love our 2017-18 staff!

Monday Sanderson Editor-in-Chief

Hannah Zimmer Managing Editor

Ciera Golliver News Editor

Tyler Hargett Life Editor

Jacob Cole Sports Editor

Ashlee Carter Social Media Coordinator

Dylan Baker Graphic Designer

David San Miguel Graphic Designer

6 NEWS

Information provided by Student Counseling Services

JACKIE WILLIS | Graphic Designer

Relationship violence represents dangerous reality BREANNA LITTRELL News Editor news@florala.net While celebrating love, it is important to realize not all couples have a safe relationship. Relationship violence is a problem that has detrimental effects on victims. “Relationship violence is a pattern of abusive behavior which usually occurs between individuals who are involved in an intimate relationship,” said Yaschica Williams, department chair of sociology and family studies. “One partner uses physical violence, fear, coercion, intimidation or manipulation to maintain power and control over the other person.” Jennifer Berry, senior licensed mental health counselor for Student Counseling Services, said there is a myth that domestic violence is only between men and women, but it can be between same-sex partners as well. “There is no definitive answer as to why relationship violence occurs, however there are factors which contribute to it, such as growing up in an environment where one learns this type of behavior,” Williams said. Senior Aurora Green said she saw her mom deal with abusive relationships. “I feel like as a child growing up exposed to it, it shaped me to keep people at a distance, especially men,” she said. “I learned you had to walk on eggshells and

you shouldn’t get attached because they suddenly disappear. Nothing you do or say will be good enough, and you learn to depend on yourself.” Senior Jacob Dawson said he believes there are reasons people often mistake feelings of codependency for love. “It can be hard to find someone that makes you feel like you belong, and once you do, you don’t want to let go,” he said. “However, depending on someone for comfort and sense of self prevents one from thinking objectively.” Berry said the beginning of the relationship is when the abuser begins the cycle of drawing someone in to degrade them. “We rush into relationships a lot of times, and we may miss and kind of catapult over the red flags that are there,” she said. Williams said since a person may not recognize they are in an abusive relationship, everyone should look for warning signs. “This could include jealous or possessive behavior, trying to isolate you from friends and family, wanting to always know where you are, checking your cellphone or email without permission and wanting to consume all of your time,” she said. She also said to look for stalking, coercive behavior, an explosive temper, verbal abuse, and using any type of physical force, she said. She said violence can result in various

long-term effects on victims. “The individual who experienced the abuse could suffer post-traumatic stress disorder, loss of self-esteem, suffer from depression, become less trusting of themselves and others, and the traumatic experience could affect the quality of future personal relationships,” she said. Senior Leah Hilpertshauser said mental, physical and even self-abuse are scenarios too many people have to experience. “When you lose your voice and you quit trusting your gut, then you’re being manipulated,” she said. “Nobody is worth losing yourself over. Understand you are worthy of all things this world has to offer.” Berry said Student Counseling Services offers confidential appointments

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with licensed professional counselors. Steven Stracener, university investigator at One Place of the Shoals, said they offer help to all victims of abuse at no charge. “Victims can get assistance with obtaining criminal warrants, protection from abuse orders, cease and desist letters, obtain legal counsel both in and out of court, scheduling crisis counseling, housing and other resources.” They also offer forensic medical examinations related to sex crimes, emergency shelter, a court advocate and other family advocate services, he said. Students interested in volunteering at One Place of the Shoals may contact executive director Elizabeth Moore at 256284-7600.

We rush into relationships a lot of times, and we may miss and kind of catapult over the red flags that are there.” Jennifer Berry | Senior Licensed Mental Counselor for Student Counseling Services

NEWS 7

NASA signs space act to collaborate with university BREANNA LITTRELL News Editor news@florala.net

ANDREA BELK | Staff Photographer

A model rocket sits on display at NASA @ UNA Day in the Guillot University Center Feb. 7. The space-act agreement will allow collaboration with the Marshall Space Flight Center and the university.

NASA officials and President Kenneth Kitts signed a memorandum of understanding that will allow collaboration between UNA and NASA Feb. 7. “This is NASA and UNA’s first official collaboration under what’s called a space-act agreement,” said Chris Randall, NASA’s external relations office technical liaison. “This will be for the purpose of collaborating with UNA’s College of Business and College of Arts and Sciences. We hope to attract some highly performing students at the university to start collaborating with NASA on some of the patents that we already have available to the public.” The business department will use an existing class, MG 494 entrepreneurial business plan writing, and make the primary focus of the class to write a business plan taking one of the NASA patents, said Santanu Borah, professor of management and marketing, Borah said he hopes the class is just the beginning. “I believe it’s going to be a tremendous thing for our students,” he said. “We told the students that we want this business plan to be the main aspect of your portfolio.” Senior Natalie Lindgren said she is in favor of the signing because it gives students more resources.

“This would give students a large range of projects and more students would be able to do research,” she said. Borah said they got the class started before the signing of the agreement to offer the class as early as possible. “In the fall, we hope it will attract people from other areas,” he said. “We will remove any kind of prerequisites from the class so that anybody who wants to take it, can. We want our students to have a multidisciplinary perspective to things.” Whitney Young, NASA’s academic and international partnerships manager, said NASA has 4,000 plus patented technologies that officials want to get out into the public. “We’re mandated to get these technologies out to the general public and this is one way that students can take the patented technology, develop a marketing plan, and of course our hope is that they will license these and start their own businesses,” she said. Borah said these patents will allow students taking the class to take these ideas and find creative uses for them. “Right now if nobody uses the patents, then it’s not doing anybody any good,” he said. “So if we find creative uses for the technology, humanity benefits from that.” Randall said this will benefit students as well as NASA. Editors note: To read more about how this agreement will benefit students, visit florala.net

BUY ONE GET ONE 10-Piece Chicken McNuggets®

Expires 03/05/17. Valid only at participating Florence, Ala. McDonald’s. Prices may vary. Not valid with any other offer, discount, coupon or combo meal. Cash value 1/20 of 1 cent. Limit one coupon per person per visit. Tax may apply. Price of required purchase posted on menu board. Coupon may not be transferred, auctioned, sold or duplicated in any way or transmitted via electronic media. Valid when product served. May not be valid for custom orders. Void where prohibited. ©2017 McDonald’s

BUY ONE GET ONE Filet-O-Fish®

FREE Any Small McCafé® Beverage with any purchase.

Expires 03/05/17. Valid only at participating Florence, Ala. McDonald’s. Prices may vary. Not valid with any other offer, discount, coupon or combo meal. Cash value 1/20 of 1 cent. Limit one coupon per person per visit. Tax may apply. Price of required purchase posted on menu board. Coupon may not be transferred, auctioned, sold, or duplicated in any way or transmitted via electronic media. Valid when product served. May not be valid for custom orders. Void where prohibited. Ounce refers to average content filled. ©2017 McDonald’s

FREE Medium Fries and Medium Soft Drink with any Big Mac®

Expires 03/05/17. Valid for product of equal or lesser value. Valid only at participating Florence, Ala. McDonald’s. Prices may vary. Not valid with any other offer, discount, coupon or combo meal. Cash value 1/20 of 1 cent. Limit one coupon per person per visit. Tax may apply. Price of required purchase posted on menu board. Coupon may not be transferred, auctioned, sold or duplicated in any way or transmitted via electronic media. Valid when product served. May not be valid for custom orders. Void where prohibited. ©2017 McDonald’s

BUY ONE GET ONE Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuit

Expires 03/05/17. Valid only at participating Florence, Ala. McDonald’s. Not valid with any other offer, discount, coupon or combo meal. Cash value 1/20 of 1 cent. Limit one coupon per person per visit. Coupon may not be transferred, auctioned, sold or duplicated in any way or transmitted via electronic media. Valid when product served. May not be valid for custom orders. Void where prohibited. ©2017 McDonald’s

BUY ONE GET ONE Quarter Pounder®* with Cheese *weight before cooking at least 4 oz.

8 NEWS

Policy would restrict resident advisorsʼ relationships

Melanie Hodges | Chief Photographer

Students move into Mattilou Hall Aug. 20, 2016. If the consensual relationship policy changes, a resident advisor could not date a student in the same hall. BREANNA LITTRELL News Editor news@ﬂorala.net A proposed update to the documentation regarding staff and student relationships would alter the University Consensual Relationship Policy to include paraprofessionals.

The purpose of the change would be to prevent a resident advisor from having a relationship with anyone in the same building. “The change that was suggested will change the policy from just staff and faculty to include paraprofessionals,” said SGA President Sarah Green. “So it’s just saying that resident advisors can’t have relationships with someone

that they are over.” “A paraprofessional is defined as a student who is selected, trained and supervised in assuming responsibilities and performing tasks that are intended to (1) directly promote the individual personal development of his or her peers, (2) foster the creation and maintenance of environments that stimulate and support residents’ personal and education development and/or (3) perform tasks that ensure the maintenance of secure, clean, healthy, psychologically safe and esthetically pleasing living accommodations,” according to the updated definition. Director of University Residences Kevin Jacques said in the past they have had problems with resident advisors dating students in their buildings, and it holds the risk of bad situations after a breakup. “If we can do something to help prevent that, then we do it,” he said. “So we are looking to protect both our student staff and the students that live on campus.” Green said Staff Senate is considering the proposal and after they vote it will go to the Shared Governance Executive Committee. The SGA Senate voted 12-11 in favor of the proposal on Jan. 19. Green said the reason some of the senators voted no was because it did not specifically say “resident advisor” in the definition of a paraprofessional. “Paraprofessional is very much a housing residence life term,” Jacques said. “It’s not a student worker position, it’s not a professional position, — it’s kind of that next step above a student worker position, but it has a potential to have a power position over another student.” He did not specify if the term would be applied to positions other than resident advisors. Green said the policy would require

the resident advisors to come forward and report their relationship. “A paraprofessional staff member who engages in a prohibited relationship and/or fails to report will be subject to discipline up to and including termination from job duties and referral for possible violation of the Student Code of Conduct or Title IX. Other, lesser sanctions may be imposed depending upon the circumstances,” according to the memorandum. If a relationship does occur between a resident advisor and a student in his/or hall, university residences can look into moving people, Jacques said. As long as they are in different halls, there is no problem. He said they will look to move the resident advisor to another hall first, because that is easier. If it is not possible to move the resident advisor, they will move a student if there is a spot open in another hall. “If we can move that risk, we can still maintain happy and healthy environments,” he said. “We just want to make sure that everyone is safe and has a healthy relationship.” Senior Jarrod Vaughn said he believes that resident advisors should have freedom of choice. “Resident advisors should be able to date or befriend whomever they want,” he said. “It’s not like they can really give special benefits to their significant other.” Sophomore Emily Stafford said she has mixed opinions about changing the policy. “I can understand why they are trying to put this policy into place,” she said. “(A resident advisor) may show favoritism to whomever they are in a relationship with. However, relationships are a private thing. I think as long as the significant other is not being treated differently, then it is fine.”

Course evaluations could become more efficient JESSICA B. LIVINGSTON Student Writer jlivingston2@una.edu Scantrons might vanish from UNA as officials consider paperless professor evaluations. It would take a shorter time to complete the evaluations and would allow students qualitative feedback, according to the Academic and Student Affairs Committee. The changes would also provide the university with faster feedback from the survey and therefore fit within the tenure and promotion process. Student Government Association President Sarah Green said the main change in the course evaluation process is not in evaluating the course as a whole, but rather the faculty member’s teaching effectiveness. “It will allow the administration

to observe the instructors in the most efficient way,” she said. Green said the proposal has already passed through the Student and Academic Affairs Committee and the Shared Governance Executive Committee. The Shared Governance Executive Committee voted to send the proposal to SGA Senate and Faculty Senate. The SGA’s Senate voted on the proposal for changes to the course evaluation process. They voted 24 – 2 in favor of changing the evaluation process, and Faculty Senate is considering the proposal. No decisions will be made to address these concerns until the vote from Faculty Senate is sent back to the Shared Governance Executive Committee for approval, Green said. She said the main concerns for the proposal from SGA were where the survey would be available online for students to remain anonymous and how

the university would require students to complete them. Junior Keisha Torres said she thinks this would be an effective way to the evaluations. Junior Kiana Ray said she likes the way the system is now and is afraid if they are completed online that the results would not be anonymous. “The course evaluations all go in a folder, and a student takes it to the higher administration so that you know all the evaluations are complete and all turned it,” she said. Sophomore John Malcolm said anything technologically advanced is a good idea. Junior Rahsaun Fletcher said he believes the system is fine now because it forces students to complete the evaluations. “Paperless is an excellent idea,” said senior Java Moody. “It would help us save time. If students don’t want to take the

evaluation, they shouldn’t have to.”

WHATʼS THE POINT? Online evaluations would allow students and instructors to give and receive feedback faster. It would also allow evaluations to ﬁt within the tenure/ promotion process.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 9 Celebrity discusses sensitive topics on campus HANNAH ZIMMER Associate Life Editor life@ﬂorala.net The Department of Housing and Residence Life will bring hip-hop artist Chuck D to UNA to discuss controversial topics during “Rap, Race, and Reality” at Norton Auditorium Feb. 15 at 7 p.m. Chuck D, founder of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame group Public Enemy and member of the Prophets of Rage, will discuss his thoughts on the title subjects. “Rap, Race, and Reality” is an interactive presentation based on current events, said Kevin Jacques, director of university residences. “Chuck D takes what’s going on now in this country and incorporates it into those three different topics,” Jacques said. Chuck D has presented the event at other schools in the past, including recently at Iowa State University. At the events, Chuck D commented on practices in Hollywood, the music industry and the murders of big names, such as Tupac. Jacques saw a Chuck D presentation

16 years ago, and he said he has wanted to bring the program to UNA ever since. “Out of all the speakers I’ve heard over my life, he is probably one of three people that I can still remember their presentation,” Jacques said. He also discussed education, economics and law enforcement in America at prior events. However, the talks are different for each location. The event is free to UNA students, and there is no general admission charge for the public. Jacques said faculty can reserve a block of seats for their students. In addition to speaking for “Rap, Race, and Reality” events, Chuck D is also an advocate and representative for Rock The Vote, the National Urban League and the National Alliance for African American Athletes. “He has presented all over the world and has been met with great response,” Jacques said. “We’re honored to have him here at UNA.” Freshman Sean Gillman said he thinks discussing racism is a good idea, but he is skeptical about Chuck D. “Public enemy was pretty antiestablishment back in the day, and I

Courtesy of the Department of Housing and Residence Life

Hip-hop artist Chuck D will speak at Norton Auditorium Feb. 15 at 7 p.m. “We’re honored to have him here at UNA.” said Kevin Jacques, director of university residences. don’t feel that creating distrust will help anything,” Gillman said.

To read more on the topics Chuck D will discuss, go to florala.net.

Why should people celebrate Black History Month?

Sumeet Kapoor (Senior) “I think it is a great diversity event,” he said. “We are all human beings and should respect each other.”

Sabrina Gilliam (Freshman) “Maybe there shouldn’t be just a month dedicated to a race,” she said. “Maybe we should think about it all year.”

MELANIE HODGES| Chief Photographer

Jake Sprouse (Freshman) “It is a good thing,” he said. “We need to think about those things so history doesn’t repeat itself.”

Kanesha Williams (Sophomore) “It’s an important month, and I feel as though once you get out of a certain grade, teachers don’t go over these things enough,” she said.

Kindle Cowley (Freshman)

Aiesha Desarme (Freshman)

“I think Black History Month is a great thing,” she said. “It serves a good purpose that no other month does.”

“I personally think that it signifies unity,” she said. “It’s paving the way for all ethnic people.”

Ashley Blackman (Senior)

Daniel Neville (Junior)

“It helps remind us what the country has gone through. It is a reminder of the sacrifices people have made,” she aid.

“I think it is an important part of America’s history,” he said. “I think it’s a good way to highlight their accomplishments.”

Information compiled by Associate Life Editor Hannah Zimmer

MICHAEL MEIGS | Graphic Designer

10 LIFE

HILLARY TAYLOR | Staff Photographer

Senior Ashley Massey (left), sophomore Miranda Murray (center) and sophomore Karlee Mauk practice for “The Vagina Monologues” Feb. 9. “It gives a voice to all different kinds of younger women and older women,” Massey said.

Monologues address human issues Congratulations to Miss UNA 2017

from

Creative Jewelers and the Miss UNA Advisory Board If you would like to schedule Miss UNA for an appearance, visit www.una.edu/missuna

HILLARY TAYLOR Student Writer htaylor1@una.edu The Center for Women’s Studies will sponsor a production of Eve Ensler’s award-winning play “The Vagina Monologues” Feb. 9. The monologues are a series of stories told from the first-person perspective that strive to express what it is like to be a woman in the modern world. These monologues represent a variety of women, including the story of a woman who had witnessed the birth of her granddaughter and a story from a six-year-old girl. This year’s production includes a diverse cast of students, faculty and staff performing. Senior Ashley Massey has participated in past performances of the monologues and will be co-directing with sophomore Karlee Mauk for the first time this year. She said the audience should expect to laugh, cry and have their world opened to engaging in women’s issues. “’The Vagina Monologues’ is important to have on campuses,” Massey said. “It gives a voice to all different kinds of younger women and older women.” Mauk said on-campus sexual harassment is not talked about as much as it should be. The show addresses the struggles women all over the world face, including serious subjects such as body image, rape, marriage, empowerment and the taboo surrounding the female body. “It’s kind of like reclaiming our

bodies in a way,” Massey said. “Society objectifies women’s bodies routinely, and ‘The Vagina Monologues’ takes that power back.” For many years, the university has held an annual performance of one of Eve Ensler’s productions. The center donates a portion of the proceeds to Ensler’s organization. The organization is an activist movement that raises funds and awareness for prevention of violence against women. Emily Kelley, coordinator of the Center for Women’s Studies, said she has been in every production since she began working at UNA in 2009. “We want to do it because it’s important,” Kelley said. “The show is hilarious, and it brings light to a lot of women’s issues and makes them easier to talk about. It makes them what they really are — human issues.” The movement has raised over $100 million for the cause to date, which goes to educating millions, opening shelters and creating anti-violence programs in countries all over the world, according to vday.org. Sophomore Berklie Nix said it is a great opportunity to educate those who are not as like-minded about women’s issues. “It’s not a bad thing to be a feminist,” Nix said. “It has such a bad reputation right now, and feminism isn’t hating men. It’s about equality.” The production will take place in the Guillot University Center Performance Center. Doors open at 6:45 p.m., and the performance begins at 7 p.m. Tickets at the door are $5 for students and $7 for non-students.

SPORTS 11 Soccer acquires 8 signees

Scoreboard

Jan. 26 - Feb. 4 Women’s Basketball

MIKE EZEKIEL Managing Editor managing@florala.net

Jan. 26 vs. Miss. College Win, 110-81 Jan. 28 vs. Delta State Loss, 55-52 Jan. 30 at Ala.-Huntsville Loss, 76-75 Feb. 2 at Lee Loss, 91-72 Feb. 4 vs. Shorter Win, 100-70

Men’s Basketball

Jan. 26 vs. Miss. College Win, 93-70 Jan. 28 vs. Delta State Loss, 84-79 Jan. 30 at Ala.-Huntsville Loss, 105-88 Feb. 2 at Lee Win, 79-76 Feb. 4 vs. Shorter Loss, 117-111 Softball Gulf Coast Inv. Results Feb. 3-5 Tournament record: 4-2

Baseball

Feb. 3-5 at Central MO Feb. 3 Win, 8-4 Feb. 4 Loss, 3-2 Feb. 5 Loss, 9-3 Games continued at roarlions.com

MELANIE HODGES | Chief Photographer

A North Alabama football player leans on his helmet during the 2016 season. North Alabama football added 34 signees on National Signing Day 2017, including 30 high school recruits and four college transfers.

Football completes ‘successful’ signing day MIKE EZEKIEL Managing Editor managing@florala.net The North Alabama football team added 34 signees on National Signing Day Feb. 1, a number Lions head coach Chris Willis said was higher than expected. The Class of 2017 includes 30 freshmen from high school and four transfer players. UNA also had two mid-year transfers to officially add 36 new names to the roster. “We’re very pleased,” Willis said. “It’s very strong across the board. Our goal was to get around 28 signees, and we’re not too far over that. I think we have some very strong candidates moving forward that can play as early as their freshman season. It’s been a very good signing class.” Nine of the UNA signees are from local high schools, including three players from Brooks in running back Deondre Hampton and special teams players Joe Gurley and Payne

Correll. The Lions also landed a pair of Muscle Shoals and a pair of Florence players, as well as offensive lineman Jakobi Lewis from Sheffield. Willis said despite the idea of not competing for a Division I national championship until 2022, the Lions found success with many of the prospects the coaches brought to campus. “We actually beat some established FSC-Division I teams that are already playing for championships,” Willis said. “I think its just the fact of getting them here and them seeing what Florence has to offer to live, and we get to play for another Division II national championship. Everyone seemed fired up about being labeled a Division I player.” Of the 34, UNA added 20 offensive prospects, including eight wide receivers and eight offensive linemen. To continue reading about UNA football’s recruiting class, go to florala.net.

The North Alabama soccer team added eight players to the 2017 roster Feb. 1, one of which was a mile away. Others were on the other side of the world. The new signees include three international prospects from Finland, England and Australia. From the United States, UNA landed one player each from Indiana, Illinois and Georgia. Two of the earliest signees came from Alabama, including Florence High School standout Mary Margaret Borden. “We have a real diverse group,” said UNA head coach Chris Walker. “Overall, I think we strengthened some of our weaknesses from the past season and just added to the depth of the team.” Borden, a 5’8’’ defender, won the 2016 Times Daily Player of the Year award. She also received an All-Area selection, an Alabama North-South AllStar slot, the Golden Boot award for being the leading scorer and Florence’s team MVP. “She will come in and compete for playing time straightaway,” Walker said. “She was great at Florence, and we expect her to continue to improve and keep it going.” Joining Borden in the defense is Taylor Farmer of Dallas, Georgia, and Emma Stice of Sycamore, Illinois. The three will hope to replace Alyssa Bova, Susan Lang and Samantha Parrish who graduated from the team last season. In the midfield, UNA added Lexi DeCamp, a 5’7’’ prospect from William Henry Harrison High School in West Lafayette, Indiana. UNA returns all three starters from last year’s midfield in Beatriz Fernandes, Margarida Sousa and Kristen Sinden. “I think we’re gathering some good weapons,” Fernandes said. “We need some help, and I believe that the recruits that are coming in will help a lot if not this coming year, then the next year when we go to Division I.” With the loss of senior forward Ele Costello, UNA added three forwards to join junior Kylie Huey and sophomores Shelby Wall and Audrey Tanner. Madeline Guillen, Sara Litmanen and Shalom College transfer Kate Ennett hope to help bolster the front line next season. Rounding out the 2017 class is goalkeeper Charlotte Johnson from Bridport, England. Johnson will compete with current goalies Kate Webster and Savannah Stewart immediately, Walker said. To continue reading about soccer’s recruiting class, visit florala.net.

12 SPORTS

MELANIE HODGES | Chief Photographer

Hayden Henderson looks on during the 2016 Division II National Championship Game against Northwest Missouri State at Kansas City, Kansas. Henderson said he hopes to attract an NFL team at a regional combine and attain his dream of playing football professionally as he signed with NFL agent Scott Bergman.

Athlete signs with NFL agent to pursue dream JACOB COLE Associate Sports Editor sports@florala.net

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Hayden Henderson’s time at North Alabama might be over, but his pursuit of the NFL has hit full stride. Henderson signed with agent Scott Bergman to pursue his lifelong dream of playing in the NFL after his dad, Keith Henderson, had an opportunity to play, but declined. “My dad played for Jacksonville State and had a chance to play for the Kansas City Chiefs,” Henderson said. “Dad regrets not taking that opportunity, so my family is supporting me in my decision.” Bergman specializes in representing players from smaller schools. Henderson said he hopes this move helps his stock so Henderson can make it to an NFL mini-camp. “His maturity and leadership can help him,” Bergman said. “He can play multiple roles, and he does a good job of reading plays.” Henderson contributed on special teams for the UNA football team that made an appearance in the 2016 Division II National Championship. Henderson also split time with fellow senior Ryan Harper at fullback.

This attitude helps Henderson push forward and work for his shot to play professionally, he said. Henderson’s work ethic is his best quality, said UNA runningbacks coach Courtland Hays. “He practices and plays with passion,” he said. “His heart will help him at the next level because it takes an incredible amount of preparation to be successful. His heart will carry him where he needs to go.” Henderson’s maturity and leadership are solid qualities to have, but the path to the NFL is narrow. Only 1.6 percent of college football players make the transition to the professional level, according to an article from 2014 on NFL.com Bergman chooses a small number of Division II players to represent in their quest to the NFL, Bergman said. Bergman decided to take on Henderson as a client after watching film and also how Henderson carried himself on the field. Former Lions Eddrick Harris and E.J. Parnell followed suit and signed with Bergman. Henderson credits the level of competition at UNA for helping him in this transition. To continue reading about Henderson’s journey, visit florala.net.

OPINION 13

Society should educate itself on black history

MONDAY SANDERSON Life Editor life@florala.net Feb. 1 was the beginning of Black History Month, a month of celebrating the accomplishments of AfricanAmericans. However, on this day, Vice President Mike Pence posted on Twitter that Abraham Lincoln should be the person Americans celebrate this month. “As #BlackHistoryMonth begins, we

remember when Pres. Lincoln submitted the 13th Amendment, ending slavery, to the states #NationalFreedomDay,” Pence said on Twitter. Pence’s tweet left many upset with some responding to Pence on Twitter saying he was making Black History Month “all about white people” and that he doesn’t “give a hoot” about it. While Lincoln did ratify the 13th Amendment, he did not believe that black people should have the same rights as white people. “I will say then that I am not, nor ever have been, in favor of bringing about in any way the social and political equality of the white and black races,” Lincoln said in an 1858 debate. The tweet Pence sent out is a common misconception most Americans have had about Lincoln supporting AfricanAmericans, including me. This makes Pence’s usage of Lincoln to celebrate Black History Month more confusing. Unfortunately, most people’s involvement with Black History Month stops after they leave high school. For

some, these lessons end even earlier. There are many other people Americans can celebrate and learn more about during Black History Month, whether it is a civil rights leader like Martin Luther King, Jr. or an iconic entertainer like Ethel Waters, one of the first black actresses on television. The only way people can fix this is if they educate themselves and others on the subject. Instead of being a passive learner with Black History Month, people should become more active. Here are three ways to do this: 1. Do research. The first step students should take is researching events and people in black history. Most people know about Martin Luther King, Jr.’s and Rosa Parks’ contribution, but what about the other civil rights leaders and entertainment icons like Thurgood Marshall or Oprah Winfrey? 2. Get involved with activities related to black history. Instead of just learning about events and people, it is important to find ways

to have a physical connection with the events and places. Whether this involves going on tours or visiting landmarks, it is better to see the sights that go along with the history. People in Florence have the convenience to visit the museum of W.C. Handy, the “Father of Blues.” 3. Have a discussion. After people have done their research and added those visual sights, the final step is to have a discussion with others. This allows people to not only educate fellow humans, but to also discuss and debate over topics and events. The Florence community has the opportunity to participate in a discussion with hip-hop icon Chuck D at the event “Rap, Race, and Reality” Feb. 15 (see p. 9). While Black History Month may only last until the end of February, the learning of black history shouldn’t end when March rolls around. The learning of black history should be an ongoing process that lasts year-round.

Athletes, celebrities deserve personal opinions

ANDREW FULMER Sports Editor sports@florala.net One of my guilty pleasures is browsing through the comments section on ESPN. There, I have found some of the most moronic, uninformed,

hilarious, thought-provoking and brilliant responses in history. But, a common subject that has become prevalent in the past year or so is sports figure’s political opinions and the backlash these views cause among fans. This is not limited to the common “stick to sports” reply in the comments section, either. Pundits from virtually every form of media have questioned this subject. A Forbes article even questioned should they have the right to voice those opinions. I believe everyone has the right to voice his or her opinions publicly, much as I am doing now. It is a basic constitutional right. What I am most intrigued about is the hypocrisy of society concerning the First Amendment. There have been many instances of high-profile athletes making social or political stands over the past year. From athletes as well-known as LeBron James,

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to now well-known Colin Kaepernick, have made controversial statements that have polarized the sports fan community. Every time an athlete makes headlines for political opinions, it seems like the majority of people criticize them for doing something other than being great at sports. For example, when the Kaepernick controversy was still a hot topic, a friend on Facebook posted Kaepernick needs to shut up and do what he is paid to do. The person continued by saying athletes from this generation whine too much, and athletes never used to pull stunts like that (I guess they do not know about Muhammad Ali). But the person who said this was far from a political analyst, yet not even an hour before had made a political post with a personal opinion. So why do people want athletes to only be athletes? Why does society want people who specialize in only one thing?

A common argument is athletes have a large platform for society to hear them, but I do not think that holds much water. Opinions are opinions, and just that. Curt Schilling has made some comments in the past that I could not possibly disagree more with, but that does not change the fact that he was one hell of a pitcher to watch in his prime and one of my personal favorites. People view celebrities, like athletes, as a luxury item they spend their money on to enjoy, much like an unnecessarily jacked-up 4x4 truck. People have placed athletes so high they do not see them as fellow people anymore. They just view them as fast machines that make loud noises and give them thrills on the weekends. We as humans have the power to change this. Just as society has opinions, let athletes have theirs. After all, everyone is entitled to their own, including them.

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.

14 PHOTOS

PROTESTING FOR PEACE

Representation Junior Madelyne Barnard points at her shirt during the Women’s March at Wilson Park in downtown Florence Jan. 27. Her shirt reads “girl gang,” which represents unity among women in society. HILLARY TAYLOR Staff Photographer htaylor1@una.edu “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” The First Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees certain unalienable rights to the citizens of this country, including freedom of speech, religion, peaceful protest, press and petitioning the government. But, exercising one of those rights has been at the forefront of debate lately. The right to protest has been

revered from the Boston Tea Party to the March on Washington. Suddenly, the opinion of protests has shifted to regarding them as nothing more than a tantrum. The misconception is that a protest can lead to nothing more than a traffic jam or the disruption of silence in an otherwise peaceful city, but protests accomplish more than that. Protests guarantee the people have a voice — whether it is to raise awareness for a disease that needs funding for research, or for disparages people of different genders, races, religions or sexual orientations face. Protests are the beginning of change. All it takes is a few brave souls to lead by example for us to break the spiral of silence. The founders wrote the First Amendment with the idea that if circumstances are unacceptable, it is un-American to accept them. Different people have different beliefs. As long as no one’s infringing on other people’s rights, it is not only a right, but also a responsibility to ensure every voice matters.

Minorities matter Shoals area native Becky Ferguson joins the Women’s March in downtown Florence Jan. 27. Ferguson, who also marched at the Women’s March in Washington, D.C., holds a sign representing the minorities of the world.

Listen up Assistant Professor of History Ansley Quiros speaks to an audience during the Black Lives Matter forum Nov. 2, 2016, in the Guillot University Center conference room. Quiros spoke about the history of African-Americans in the United States and encouraged people to be informed about black history.

Moving forward A group of students march across the bridge in front of the Guillot University Center in remembrance of Martin Luther King Jr. Jan. 11. King was a pioneer for African-Americans with his famous “I have a dream” speech.

CALENDAR 15 Thurs., Feb. 9 What: SGA Senate Meeting When: 3:30 p.m. Where: Office of Student Engagement What: Black History Gala When: 6 p.m. Where: GUC Banquet Halls What: Vagina Monologues When: 7 p.m. Where: GUC Performance Center

Fri., Feb. 10 What: Guest Artist Recital and Clinic: Jim Riley, drumset When: 3:30 p.m. Where: Music Building Band Room

Sat., Feb. 11 What: UNA Baseball v. Bellamarine When: 1 and 4 p.m. Where: Mike Lane Field What: Women’s Basketball at

The Flor-Ala ﬁle photo

The UNA Baseball team celebrates a win over Miles College Feb. 20, 2016. The Lions face Bellamarine in a double-header Saturday, Feb. 11, at 1 and 4 p.m. at Mike Lane Field.

Tues., Feb. 14

What: Rap, Race and Reality: An Evening with Chuck D

What: Valentine Carnation sales When: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

When: 7 p.m.

West Alabama When: 2 p.m.

Where: GUC Atrium

Where: Livingston

What: UNA Softball v. Southern Indiana When: 2 and 4 p.m.

What: Men’s Basketball at West

Where: Norton Auditorium

Thur., Feb.16 When: 3 p.m.

What: The Flor-Ala writers’ meeting When: 4 p.m.

Where: Office of Student Engagement

Where: Student Publications Building

What: SGA Senate Meeting

Alabama When: 4 p.m.

Where: UNA Softball Complex

Where: Livingston

What: UPC Speed Dating Event When: 5:30 p.m. Where: GUC Banquet Hall

What: Women’s Basketball v. West Florida

Wed., Feb. 15

Where: Flowers Hall

What: Circle K Pancake Day When: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Where: Memorial Amphitheater

What: Men’s Basketball vs.

Sun., Feb. 12 What: UNA Baseball v. Bellamarine When: 1 p.m. Where: Mike Lane Field What: UNA Band: Valentine’s Big Band Bash When: 3 p.m. Where: Norton Auditorium What: The Flor-Ala writers’ meeting When: 4 p.m. Where: Student Publications Building

Mon., Feb. 13 What: UPC Meeting When: 3:30 - 5 p.m. Where: Office of Student Engagement What: Healthy Relationships Forum When: 7 - 9 p.m. Where: GUC Room 200

What: Departmental Recital

When: 6 p.m.

West Florida When: 8 p.m. Where: Flowers Hall

When: noon

Fri., Feb. 17

Where: Music Building Recital Hall

What: University closed for Winter Break

What: Women’s Tennis v. Martin Methodist When: 2 p.m.

Sat., Feb. 18

Where: UNA Tennis Courts What: Men’s Tennis v. Martin Methodist When: 2 p.m. Where: UNA Tennis Courts What: Baseball v. LeMoyne-Owen When: 2 p.m. Where: Mike Lane Field What: Guest Artist Recital: Luis Rivera, percussion When: 6 p.m. Where: Music Building Recital Hall

What: Men’s Tennis v. Christian Brothers When: 1 p.m. Where: UNA Tennis Courts

What: Women’s Basketball v. Valdosta State When: 1 p.m. Where: Flowers Hall What: Men’s Basketball v. Valdosta State When: 3 p.m. Where: Flowers Hall

Sun., Feb. 19 What: Women’s Tennis v. Christian Brothers When: 1 p.m. Where: UNA Tennis Courts

Mon., Feb. 20 What: UPC Meeting When: 3:30 - 5 p.m. Where: Office of Student Engagement

Tues., Feb. 21 What: Film Screening: “Race to Execution” When: 6:30 p.m. Where: GUC Loft What: Senior Recital: Miranda McAfee When: 7:30 p.m. Where: Music Building Recital Hall

Wed., Feb. 22 What: GOAT: Hazing Prevention Week Movie When: 8 - 10:30 p.m. Where: GUC Performance Center

What: Circle K Pancake Day When: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Where: Memorial Amphitheater

16 SOCIAL MEDIA OF THE WEEK