January 12, 2012 Issue

Page 1

January 12, 2012

Volume 80 No. 15

www.FlorAla.net

Student newspaper of the University of North Alabama

Students commemorate life of freshman Freshman dies after Christmas due to severe burns on body

@UNAFlorAla @FlorAlaSports

A LOOK INSIDE

See page 2 UNA is working to bring an app to reality on iPhone and Android cell phone systems.

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Members of Kappa Sigma fraternity and administrators at UNA pulled together to host a memorial service Tuesday night for Chad Silcox, a member of Kappa Sigma who passed away during the winter holidays. Silcox was severely burned outside his family home due to a gas explosion while he was burning leaves on Dec. 24. He died at UAB Hospital the day after Christmas. Silcox was remembered by many of his fraternity brothers, as well as administrators, at the candlelight

memorial service. Kappa Sig brothers shared memories of him and sang songs in remembrance of his life. Hunter Daws, a member of Kappa Sigma and close +PIL ;QTKW` friend of Silcox’s, said Silcox loved life, the outdoors and country music. “Chad lived every day to the fullest; he was a no nonsense kind of guy,” he said. “He didn’t sit around. He got out there and did things.”

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photo by KAYLA SLOAN I Staff Photographer

Clifford Stout, Hunter Daws, Anthony Hester and Jordan Brasher light a memorial candle Jan. 10 for Chad Silcox.

Off the beach, onto the field

UNA investigates value of Kilby Laboratory School 4]Ka *MZZa

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Officials are discovering new ways to utilize Kilby Lab School, an elementary institution for students up to 6th grade that also acts as a laboratory environment for UNA students earning a degree. Kilby, which is located across from the Department of Communications on Pine Street, houses more than 140 students and received a subsidy of $218,124 from the university last year. Conversations regarding Kil-

See page 3 Miss UNA contestants get unique opportunity during pageant.

See page 5 Check out UNA junior Allison Ray’s and other student’s New Year’s resolutions.

photo by MALISA MCCLURE I Chief Photographer Bobby Wallace, who returned to UNA last week as the new head football coach, worked as head coach at UNA from 1988-1997 and won three straight national championships during that time.

Wallace plans to reinvent Lions football team See page 5 Feel the beat of the ‘Hip Heart’ as local musicians and artists come together.

See page 9 Get to know new Head Coach Bobby Wallace off the Lions’ football field.

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UNA introduced Bobby Wallace as its new head football coach Jan. 3 with hopes to continue the success he left behind while also building toward the Division I transition. Wallace, 57, went into retirement in 2010 and returned to UNA after spending 10 years as head coach from 1988-97 and winning three straight national championships. He said there wasn’t much that could get him off the beach and out

INSIDE:

Read an exclusive Q&A with Coach Bobby Wallace on page 8. of retirement until the head coach position became available again at UNA. “I spent 10 years here at UNA and the Shoals area and the bottom line is it’s the longest I have lived anywhere in my adult life,” Wallace said. “The friendships and relationships that I built over those 10 years and the success that came with it, it’s

hard to put in words how much UNA means to me.” According to Athletic Director Mark Linder, Wallace was the perfect fit for UNA to help the university transition to Division I athletics. “From the time we started the process and all the phone calls that we took, it was Coach Wallace that knocked all the other candidates out of the ball park,” Linder said. “We are about graduating champions and that is what Coach Wallace is all about.” Wallace said there is a lot of infrastructure that has been added to

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Breaking it down 2010-2011 Kilby Summary Revenue - $1,017,098 Expenses - $1,235,222 UNA subsidy - $218,124 by’s future and whether UNA will continue to fund the laboratory school have been frequent during the last few months among Kilby parents and community members, but UNA officials want to set the record straight. UNA President Bill Cale is not looking to shut Kilby down but is instead forming a committee that will investigate the value of the school and how the university can take advantage of Kilby’s laboratory environment.

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News

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Florence landfill issues MLK march to take will not affect place on campus campus trash

News Briefs

Members of the Student Multicultural Advisory Committee, in conjunction with the UNA Office of Student Engagement and Baptist Campus Ministries, are hosting a remembrance march in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Friday Jan. 13 at noon. Keynote speaker will be Ron Shepperd, president of Florence Freshman Center. The program will begin in the GUC Performance Center and will proceed to the Baptist Campus Ministries building on Wood Avenue where lunch will be provided for free to attendees.

Music and Theatre to host Big Band Blowout in Norton

The UNA Department of Music and Theatre is set to host its annual Big Band Blowout Feb. 2 in Norton Auditorium. Bands will include the Shoals Big Band, UNA Studio Jazz Band and more. Admission is $10 for the general public, $5 for students and free to all active and veteran military personnel. For more information, contact Carole Maynard in the Department of Music and Theatre at 256-765-4375.

Thursday, January 12, 2012 • The Flor-Ala

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The city of Florence’s partial closing of a landfill in late January will not significantly affect UNA’s disposal of trash and other debris from the campus. On Jan. 31, the municipal dumping cell of the Florence landfill will close, leaving open only the industrial dumping ground, but, according to city officials, it will not hamper UNA as the new semester begins. “The landfill is divided into two sections—the municipal part that takes household-type material and the industrial part that takes construction-like material, like limbs and debris,� said David Koonce, manager of Florence’s Department of Solid Waste and Recycling. “That really won’t affect UNA as much as other places. We pick up most of their municipal garbage, and the stuff they typically take would go in the construction side.� The municipal household garbage that UNA typically produces is placed into dumpsters across campus, and even with the closing of the dumping site, the city of Florence will transport the trash to a different site, according to Koonce. With the number of students on campus during the fall and spring semesters, the university creates a large amount of garbage. “We have more (people) on campus than any other place in Florence,� said Michael Gautney, director of Facilities Administration and Planning. “Even take the people

photo by KAYLA SLOAN I Staff Photographer

A UNA custodial worker tosses waste into a dumpster on campus. UNA, among many other entities in the Shoals, produces a significant percentage of the solid waste thrown away at the Florence Landfill.

in ECM; we have more people on campus. Not to say that there aren’t things that we need to do to recycle through things, but I think we’re on the right track.� According to Gautney, the university spends up to $40,000 a year on disposing garbage, with the main costs dedicated to the transport and emptying of dumpsters and some industrial items that are carried to the dumpster. “Rice and Rivers are our largest, ranging from $12 to $940 a month,� Gautney

said. “Those are the same every month; that all totals up to 95 percent of it that goes out by dumpster.� The university ground crew also collects garbage on campus every morning from 6:30 to 7:30, but the garbage they collect that will not fit into dumpsters usually is considered industrial waste and can go into the landfill cell that will remain open. “Realistically, while the closing does

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ThereĘźs an app for that: UNA enters app store )TM` 4QVLTMa

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UNA, with the approval of the Strategic Planning and Budget Study committee, has decided to develop an app for the university for Apple, Android and Blackberry devices, according to Web Communications Manager Jeremy Britten. The week before Christmas break, UNA signed a contract for the app, which should launch in about two months, Britten said. The app will be hosted and provided by AT&T and is a customizable template that will be tailored to UNA’s needs by Britten and a web developer who will likely be hired this semester. “(The app) will give students access to their courses, Portal and Angel,� Britten said. “We’d also like to develop a virtual campus tour, maybe have ticketing for events and integrate social media. “The great thing about it is that we can add our own things.� Other possible features Britten menphoto by BARRY MINOR I Staff Photographer tioned include discussions, sports, UNA press releases, social media integration, vidThe new UNA app will allow students eos, maps and emergency numbers. and other members of the university But bringing the app to UNA will not be community to access Banner and Angel free. The startup fee is $20,000, and the anon their wireless devices. The university has committed $30,000 up front for start nual renewal fee for the first year is $10,000, according to Director of University Comup and first-year annual fees, as well as a salary position for a web developer to munications Josh Woods. The renewal fee create and maintain the application. for subsequent years will be $12,000.

Other universities of comparable size to UNA have found cheaper apps with a little less functionality. Marketing Director for Tennessee Tech University Bobbie Maynard said her university’s app, hosted by a company called EZ Axess, is free. Like UNA’s app, TTU’s app is a customizable template, but the ability to integrate with the TTU equivalents of Angel and Banner is a paid premium feature that TTU does not currently receive. Another difference between the two apps is the TTU app does not integrate with Blackberry, according to Maynard. The reason UNA is pursuing the more expensive alternative for an app is because of the app’s functionality. “When making the decision, we were really looking for the ability to integrate with Angel and Banner, which takes a pretty sophisticated system,� Woods said. “The direction we’re taking with our app will enable a more innovative approach. We want it to be as useful as we can possibly make it.� Among paid apps for universities, UNA’s app will come at a fairly conservative rate, according to Woods. Woods said the app has been in the works for a long time. “We’ve been talking about getting (the app) for years, but it hasn’t been feasible until now,� he said. “There’s a lot of infrastructure involved; we have to have a way to grow it. That’s why we’re getting a web

developer.� The web developer will focus on the development of the UNA app but will also take on other projects, according to Britten. Woods believes the app is an important addition to UNA’s methods of communication. “Social media, in about the past decade, has brought about a major paradigm shift in university marketing,� he said. “Phones are becoming the front door to universities. Apps are quickly becoming the first thing (prospective students) are going to see.� SGA President Ralph Akalonu said he is happy to see an app for UNA but a little wary of what it will cost. “I would support this app with full cognizance of the financial strain that many schools in Alabama are under right now because I do not want to see UNA lagging behind in technology,� he said. “But I am not sure that the returns from this app will be worth the initial investment as far as how many students we will attract with it.� UNA junior computer science major Atticus Wright hopes UNA will get its money’s worth. “That’s a pretty steep cost for an app,� he said. “But if it is really guaranteed to work and draws interest to the university, then I guess it will be worth the price.� Akalonu said he will be attending a meeting to discuss a marketing plan for UNA, which the app could possibly be a part of.

Thursday, January 12, 2012 • The Flor-Ala

News

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Early Scholars program sees changes FAFSA key to savings Name change, requirements added to existing program 4]Ka *MZZa

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Officials approved several changes to the Early Scholars Program during the December board of trustees meeting to become more consistent with the program’s original intent in allowing area high school students to take coursework at UNA. The program, which will soon be called the Early College Program, was approved to become a more broad-based system for a larger number of high school students, instead of only being reserved for scholars. Dr. John Thornell, provost and vice president of academic affairs, said officials are working to create a separate program designed specifically for scholarly and gifted high school students in the area. Baseline qualifications to enter into and remain in the program were also set at the meeting, which include a B average for initial enrollment and C average on UNA courses for continued participation in the program. Qualified students may now take one free 3-4 credit hour class each semester. The program will also allow 10th grade students with a composite ACT score of 22 or better to take part without paying tuition, as long as they meet the same academic standards as an 11th or 12th grade student enrolled in the program. “I think it’s going to be a little confusing for (the students and parents) at first be-

cause of changing the program’s name, but I think eventually the participation requirements will actually help the students,” said Kim Mauldin, director of admissions. “It’s not our goal for them not to be successful. I do think that by putting the retention GPA (for students to follow), it is going to help.” The program, which brings 40 percent of high school students back to UNA as their college of choice after graduation, re-

”We are feeling better about

the bar having been raised and set for continued participation in this program.”

-Dr. John Thornell

quires students to pay technology, transportation, special and distance learning fees to participate. In 2011, UNA waived $428,460 in tuition for 735 high school students who participated and took classes at the university. “The (program’s) original intention was to give students the opportunity to have a college course experience while still in high school, to challenge them and give them the chance to see what the college environment is like,” Mauldin said. Thornell said officials are planning new ways to keep Early College participants at UNA and to deter them from transferring to other colleges and universities after high school graduation. They are planning

to make participants a more vital part of UNA, with specially designed SOAR sessions, better interaction with faculty, and stronger ties to UNA’s services and student community. Thornell hopes the revisions to the Early Scholars Program will be more aligned with its original mission. He plans for a true Early Scholars program in the future to attract gifted high school students who have exceptional academic records and talents. “We are feeling better about the bar having been raised and set for continued participation in this program,” he said. “We hope we can get a true Early Scholars program off the ground as soon as possible.” Changes to the program will take effect during the 2012-2013 academic year.

By the numbers: 2011 Number of students: 735 Amount of tuition waived: $428,460 Tuition and fees paid: $8,510 2010 Number of students: 741 Amount of tuition waived: $405,142 Tuition and fees paid: $17,535 2009 Number of students: 668 Amount of tuition waived: $334,305 Tuition and fees paid: $13,005

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Established in 1974, the Miss UNA pageant is one of the longest standing traditions at UNA, according to Cheryl Mathis, coordinator of programming in the Office of Student Engagement. “If you go to UNA, you go to the pageant,” Mathis said. Thanks to an outside source, the Miss UNA pageant will be funded to have better performance and quality this year, Mathis said. The owner of Creative Jewelers in downtown Florence has decided to increase publicity by becoming a sponsor of the pageant. According to her, the jewelry store owner, Billy Hammock, is a UNA alumnus that wanted to give back to his community. Mathis said all 13 pageant contestants have been to Creative Jewelers to create their own custom ring. The contestant that wins gets to keep her ring. “Creative Jewelers has created something special for the winning girl to have for years to come,” Mathis said. “It is the only business that I have heard of that lets you create a completely custom ring.” Contestants this year are glad the pageant is partnering with local businesses. “I am very excited to be able to work with Creative Jewelers to design a ring specifically for me and the Miss UNA scholarship program,” said Anne-Marie Hall, a senior music education major and contestant. “This is a great way for the Miss UNA organization and UNA to work with a very admirable business in the community.

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With the price of college attendance increasing every year, many students have to rely on scholarships, loans and other sources of funding to get their degrees. To get loans and grants for college, the FAFSA can be helpful to students. “(Until the FASFA is filed), financial aid can’t help anyone in their federal aid,” said Shauna James, scholarship manager for Student Financial Services. James also said students should file a FAFSA the same day or within the week that their parents file their taxes, and after that, check their UNA e-mail regularly in case financial aid has any problems that the student needs to address.

FAFSA Deadline: June 30

“For incoming freshman, check the website of college admissions or the financial aid website and see what scholarships are available,” James said. She also said that if the information for scholarships is not listed on the website of that college, then students should call the school for the information. Endowed scholarships—which are open to all UNA students—are also an avenue that students can explore. These scholarships are formed from money a donor has given to UNA to set up a scholarship, and the scholarship can be in their name or in memory of someone. For the scholarships, students only have to fill out some personal information and write a short paragraph on their goals at UNA. “There are around 200-300 endowed scholarships of about $1,000 or less,” James said. James also said these scholarships need to be applied for annually because they do not renew each year. Another way to find scholarships is through external sources. Free websites will search for scholarships with the crite-

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photo courtesy of EVAN WHISENANT I University Photographer

Miss UNA 2011 Brandi Lewis crosses the stage after being crowned last year. Lewis’ predecessor will not only take home the crown, but a ring she designed herself.

Hopefully, the two can work together more in the future.” Hall competed in the Miss UNA pageant last year and continues to feel the excitement that each year brings. She sees the pageant as more than just a chance at a crown. “The Miss UNA scholarship pageant gives each contestant the opportunity to gain experience in interview skills, poise and self-expression—and friends you might have never met otherwise,” Hall stated. “Miss UNA is a leader in the community, as well as on campus.” Hall believes that because the Miss UNA pageant is a preliminary for the Miss

Alabama pageant, it gives the winning girl a chance to represent her whole community. “By her wearing the Miss UNA ring, she will be promoting the store, her school and her community all the way to Miss Alabama and, with luck and prayer, to Miss America.” Brittany Jordan, a UNA junior majoring in merchandising, agrees with Hall’s sentiment about Miss UNA being more than just a title with no purpose. This year is Jordan’s first year to compete in Miss UNA, but she has the title of Miss Black and Gold, Alpha

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affect Florence, it won’t really affect many people because they may just have to go a little bit further because (a transfer station) will be open in Petersville,” Koonce said. The garbage that goes to the Petersville transfer station will eventually end up in a landfill in Walnut, Miss., according to Koonce. Even discounting the Petersville transfer station, there are other possible dumping grounds for anyone in the area that needs to dispose of household garbage, including the city of Decatur’s landfill and the county landfill. The university is also working on a program, in cooperation with the Student Government Association, to improve recycling on campus and cut down on the amount of trash that goes to the landfill. According to Gautney, the university received a grant through the city to purchase recycling bins and a trailer to carry recyclable garbage to a nearby recycling center.

Viewpoints

Thursday, January 12, 2011 • The Flor-Ala

Teachers facing recent hardships

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I recently asked some Alabama teachers whether or not they would ever encourage college students to major in education. The overwhelming answer was “No—not until things change.” This may come as a shock to UNA students, especially to the many education majors who chose UNA because of its history as a teaching college, but I am not here to discourage students from teaching. Despite all the recent issues, my mother, who has been teaching for 26 years, said teaching can be the greatest job in the world. In a time when so many children are not getting the role models they need from their families, teachers can shape those children and give them the knowledge, skills and goals to make them successful—an ability that puts responsibility on teachers. But it shouldn’t be placed entirely on Alabama’s teachers. Yet, recent national, state, and local-level, morale-lowering changes have sparked negative outlooks on teaching from teachers themselves. How many times have we heard about Alabama having the second lowest high school graduation rate in the nation? With the increasing public emphasis on teacher accountability rather than student or parent accountability, Alabama’s embarrassing ranking too often gets blamed on teachers. And, as a direct result, teachers feel the pressure to raise graduation numbers—

under the constant, ominous threat of the government stepping in to “help” but really just making it harder for the good teachers to do their jobs. It would appear that the shifting attitude toward teachers is what caused a teacher exodus this past December, but what really caused it was increases in health insurance and retirement costs for Alabama teachers to reduce state costs. Teachers scrambled for the exit before the changes took effect Jan. 1, but not without remembering the 62 percent raise that the Alabama legislature awarded itself in 2007. Being a member of the legislature is a part-time job. Why should legislators receive such an obscene raise when fulltime Alabama teachers, according to 201011 statistics, are paid almost $8,000 below the national average and have the 33rd lowest average salary in the nation? Officials need to recognize that lowering teacher morale will only yield worse results from an already flawed American education system. Why not raise the standards for teachers in a positive way and treat them with the respect they deserve? Alabama can’t afford to alienate the people who shape our next generation’s workforce. My advice to education majors: enter the classroom knowing the system is flawed, and work to change it for the better. There are many bright spots in Alabama’s education system, and future teachers should aspire to make those spots even brighter. To contact Alex, call 256-765-4364 or follow him on Twitter at @TheFlorAlex.

PAWS UP, PAWS DOWN

Calling it like we see it at UNA, in the Shoals, across the state and around the world UNA campus groups and students will come together this Friday, Jan. 13 to march in the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Remembrance March. The march, organzined by the Student Multicultural Advisory Committee and Baptist Campus Ministries, will begin at the GUC with a rally and end at the BCM. Actor Charlie Sheen donated $25,000 to Alabama tornado relief last Friday. The funds came from both Sheen’s fundraising website and Sheen’s own pocket, with $10,000 from the website and $15,000 from Sheen. The donation marks Sheen’s making good on a promise he made to help Alabama’s tornado victims last April. Sheen made the donation with no public announcement. The Center for Disease Control reported Tuesday that one in six adults in the United States binge drink at least once every month. The report also said students that drink usually consume an average of nine drinks when they get intoxicated.

Want to become a columnist for The Flor-Ala? E-mail us at florala@una.edu

Staff Editorial challenging last few months. It is wonderful to see our community come together to celebrate and commemorate the lives of our lost peers. Last summer, when Daniel Smith was killed in a kayaking accident on Cypress Creek, students came together to remember him with a memorial concert, and they continue working to fix the low head dam on the creek where Smith died. UNA students honored Haley Mauldin sim-

During times of tragedy, students come together Facing adversity and tragedy, people are always given the chance to come together peacefully or break down. UNA has chosen the former in the case of the several recent deaths of UNA students. The Flor-Ala Editorial Board is proud of UNA students for their actions during these

Cartoon of the Week

ilarly with a candlelight vigil after she passed away suddenly of a brain hemorrhage this fall. And, with the most recent death, students have shown an outpour of support for Chad Silcox, who died from severe burns shortly after Christmas. The UNA community has exhibited cohesiveness during this time of tragedy that is both refreshing and reassuring. It is refreshing in a time when so many people seem to not care for one another and reassuring to know we are all a part of a community that really does come together when times get tough. This attitude UNA students have displayed in a time of such tragedy represents an attitude that would serve us well to have at all times—an attitude of collaboration and goodwill. The Flor-Ala Editorial Board encourages students to use the beginning of this new semester as a chance to keep doing what they’re doing, and transfer that to all areas of life. The students who came together to celebrate the lives of those who have passed have set an example we should all strive to follow. Let’s work together as one campus during the coming changes to our university and at all times, rather than dividing into separate groups that avoid or fight with one another. The stronger we are as a community, the more successful we will be as a university.

Have your own cartoons? Want to get published? Send us your stuff at florala@una.edu!

The opinions expressed in the staff editorial above are the collective ideas of The Flor-Ala Editorial Board.

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Student newspaper of the University of North Alabama LUCY BERRY EXECUTIVE EDITOR JOSH SKAGGS NEWS/MANAGING EDITOR ANDY THIGPEN LIFE EDITOR TOMMY BOLTON SPORTS EDITOR ALEX LINDLEY COPY/OPINION EDITOR JORDAN BRADLEY ONLINE EDITOR DEVIN KENNAMER AD MANAGER SAVANNAH COMER GRAPHIC ARTIST JULIANN LOSEY CIRCULATION MGR MALISA McCLURE CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER KAYLA SLOAN BARRY MINOR DARRICK DAWKINS STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS REBECCA WALKER ADVISER

EDITORIAL BOARD: LUCY BERRY ALEX LINDLEY

Letters Policy

The Flor-Ala welcomes and encourages Letters to the Editor. • The deadline for submitting letters is 10 a.m. Monday, the week of publication. • Letters must not exceed 400 words. • Letters must be accompanied by the writer’s name, mailing address, phone number and e-mail. • The Flor-Ala prefers to publish your letters exactly as written, but reserves the right to reject slanderous or libelous material. • The publication of any letter is left to the discretion of the Editorial Board. • Priority is given to letters critical of The Flor-Ala, or written in direct response to an editorial, a column, or a news story. • When the editors deem it necessary for ease of understanding or to clarify facts, an Editor’s Note may accompany a letter. • Address correspondence to The Flor-Ala. UNA Box 5300, Florence, AL 35632. E-mail: florala@una.edu. Letters may also be submitted through our website at florala.net. • Phone: 256-765-4364

Copyright © 2011 The Flor-Ala All rights reserved. First copy free. Additional copies $1 each.

Life

Thursday, January 12, 2011 • The Flor-Ala

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Feel the ‘Lovelution’ Local artists, musicians unite for nights of art, dancing, creative expression in Shoals 5ITQ[I 5K+T]ZM

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Hardened Resolve

“Last semester, I was constantly busy and didn’t really have much time for myself. This year, I want to focus on staying healthy, time management and focusing on making a little more time myself.”

Willie Hovater, senior

“I usually don’t make New Year’s resolutions because I just don’t see the point in waiting until January to make a change. If I want something bad enough, or I feel that I greatly need to make a change, then I am going to go after it or do it no matter what time of the year it is.”

The event has quickly become popular with the Florence community. Florence High School art students attended the December event, and many people have come after hearing about it on Facebook, according to Busbee. The number of participating artists has also increased since the first event. “The first time we had three artists, including myself, and now it’s up to 10,” Busbee said. “It’s really picking up.” There were many people in attendance Friday night. Many people stood around talking while almost every seat was filled and still more people danced. Friday’s event was the third Lovelution so far. The next Hip Heart: Lovelution will be held Friday, Feb. 3 at 8 p.m. For more information about the event, join the Lovelution group on Facebook. Over the break, many UNA students and faculty members set their focus toward goals they would like to accomplish in the upcoming year. Now that the New Year is finally here, several UNA students plan on sticking with their New Year’s resolutions.

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People have always felt that the beginning of the New Year is the turning point to start over and make changes in their daily lives and routines.

photo courtesy of Willie Hovater

photo by Shannon Wells

Allison Ray, senior

- Tyree Busbee

photo by Malisa McClure

New Yearʼs resolutions are still popular among students, faculty at UNA

ers can interact and maybe break down some of these social walls that we build up.”

Ralph Akalonu, senior “I used to not be a big fan of New Year’s resolutions, but this year I decided that I want to be a better overall person and Christian. Therefore, I would like to go to church more often and help people who are in need. I am also focused on getting into graduate school.”

Jamie Dixon, senior

“I don’t believe that you have to wait until the New Year to start something new. If a person has the willpower to change, then he or she can do it whenever they want, regardless of what time of the year it is.”

photo courtesy of Kristy Holley

Dancing lights and dancing people fill The End theater for the new “Hip Heart: Lovelution” event. The local art and music show features live art, freestyle rap, dancing and a DJ with the intention of bringing love and creativity to the Florence area.

”We kind of set it up to where strang-

photo courtesy of Jamie Dixon

photo by MALISA MCCLURE I Chief Photographer

Artist Titus Busbee wanted to give UNA art students a unique way to showcase their work outside of the classroom and feel more like artists than just art students. With his brother Tyree’s help, he created Hip Heart: Lovelution to do just that. Lovelution is an art gallery mixed with a DJ party that happens at The End in downtown Florence the first Friday of every month. It gives UNA students and local artists an opportunity to showcase their work and meet other artists. “That’s what I always wanted when I was an art student at UNA,” Busbee said. Busbee graduated from UNA’s Department of Art in 2007. Busbee was inspired to create the event because he felt that UNA art students needed an outlet besides school in which to let out their creativity. “I was just looking at those students and wondering ‘what can I do to make them more into doing their art work?’ ” Busbee said. Friday’s event included music DJ’d by Titus’ brother, also known as DJ #3, a drum circle and live painting. The End was filled with students and local artists dancing, talking, painting and drumming. “We kinda set it up to where strangers can interact and maybe break down some of these social walls that we build up,” Busbee said. Busbee said attendees are encouraged to meet new people, collaborate on ideas and even

exchange phone numbers with strangers. The event also features an open microphone where anyone is welcome to come up and talk, sing, rap or whatever they want to do to express themselves.

Kristy Holley, junior

“I hardly ever make New Year’s resolutions, but this year I decided to make one because I recently got accepted into the nursing program. So therefore, my main priority is to have a 4.0 GPA.”

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Thursday, January 12, 2011 • The Flor-Ala

The quiet before

the storm semester By Malisa McClure - Chief Photographer - msmcclure@una.edu It’s Monday, Jan. 9, and school starts in two days. While most UNA students have been hiding out in their hometowns or traveling for the holidays, I’ve been back and forth between Huntsville and Florence, working weekends and hanging out in my apartment. Florence has been very quiet. Downtown has been a ghost town except for when the bars are open, and campus has been dead. The morning

fog makes the area look even spookier, doing nothing to ease my pre-semester anxiety. In other words – the quiet feels like a foreboding of the semester to come. By the time this paper comes out, campus will be all hustle and bustle, with students running from the GUC to class to the library trying to start the semester off on the right foot. No more road trips, Christmas presents or New Year’s kisses. Instead, we’ll be drowning in schoolwork while

working our outside jobs, and at the same time trying to maintain some semblance of a social life. But we’ll find a way to survive, because after all we’re college kids – also known as the most resilient species of people to ever walk the earth. Before we know it, this semester, too, will end with most of us escaping with As or Bs by the skin of our teeth. I hope you all enjoyed your moment of silence.

See more photos from this series at florala.net

Feature

Thursday, January 12, 2011 • The Flor-Ala

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7

Kilby parents hopeful about future of lab school on UNAʼs campus 314*A KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM “The committee will be looking at not so much the funding options for Kilby, but in enhancing the value Kilby has for the entire university,” said Dr. Mary Maschal, director of Kilby School. Last year, Kilby generated $1,017,098 in revenue and spent $1,235,222 in expenses, according to the school’s financial summary for the 2010-2011 academic year. From 20092012, Kilby earned $934,635 in revenue and spent $1,284,029 in expenses. At the Strategic Planning and Budget Study committee meeting in November, Dr. Donna Jacobs, dean of the UNA College of Education, said the laboratory school’s funding is based primary on a head-count system, is affiliated with Lauderdale County Schools and receives $1.2 million annually from the state. Dr. John Thornell, provost and vice president of academic affairs, said the school must become more aggressive at fundraising, participation with alumni, developing grants and in seeking external support in order to address its finanphoto by MALISA MCCLURE I Chief Photographer cial issues. “Kilby is a unique elementary Mandy Wicks, a teacher at Kilby Lab School, school in that it wears two hats,” he instructs students in her classroom Nov. 15.

said. “It is an elementary school but also a lab school in having a relationship with UNA academically. “This is about finding out how Kilby can be a laboratory for the university to take advantage of. No one here feels uncomfortable with where Kilby is as an elementary school, but we would like to see it expand its role as a lab school.” In September, Kilby hosted its firstever alumni event, which brought in $10,500 in revenue that will benefit the laboratory school for the future. Several academic departments and groups on UNA’s campus have taken advantage of Kilby’s presence on campus as a laboratory environment, said Carole Maynard, Kilby PTO president. Departments including education, nursing, communications, theater, as well as groups such as Greek organizations, athletics teams and honor societies have used Kilby for a number of purposes. “We encourage (UNA students) to think of ways they can gain hands-on experience in Kilby classes,” Maynard said. “The teachers at Kilby are so excited and so willing to partner with UNA. They welcome any type of interaction.” Maynard said the atmosphere is much more positive among Kilby par-

ents now that UNA is forming a committee to look into the value of the school. “They are excited about the possibilities ahead of us in making Kilby an outstanding lab school,” she said. Jeremy Britten, web communications manager at UNA and parent to two Kilby students, said he and other parents won’t go down without a fight if the elementary school is at risk of closure in the future. “Once (UNA) figures out the best way to integrate Kilby into UNA, the students here will have a lot to offer (at the school),” he said. “The kids are sponges for information, and anything UNA wants to teach them, they’ll love and will result in a well-rounded education for the students.”

”We encourage (UNA

students) to think of ways they can gain hands-on experience in Kilby classes. The teachers at Kilby are so excited and so willing to partner with UNA.”

-Carole Maynard

?)44)+- KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM UNA’s campus since the last time he was here. “Everything has improved tremendously since the last time I was here and the facilities are a lot better than they were 10 years ago,” Wallace said. “The easy thing is the transition of living here because I pretty much know where everything is at compared to going somewhere I have never been.” This time around will not be as easy for Wallace as it was for him 10 years ago. He is inheriting a football team that lost more than 30 seniors this year, with several openings at the skill positions, which include receivers, running backs and quarterbacks. He is also still trying to put together a staff for next season. “Putting together a staff will be the most difficult part because usually when you leave a place to go somewhere, you already have staff under you, but since I was retired I don’t have that,” Wallace said. “As for the team, we’ve got some real glaring holes that need to be filled and the offensive photos by MALISA MCCLURE I Chief Photographer line looks to be in the worst shape,” Wallace said. “As of right now, we only have four, mayBobby Wallace, 57, speaks to media and fans during the press conference be five, guys on the line for spring training.” in the GUC Performance Center Jan. 3. Wallace said he hopes to bring UNA At any university, recruiting always plays alumni and others who have close ties to the university as his new coaching a major part in whether or not a team can staff. He also plans to recruit more high school players instead of transfers. compete for national championships. Wallace

Fans cheer for Wallace at UNA Jan. 3.

hopes to stop relying on transfer players each season and instead rebuild relationships with high school coaches around the area. “Once we make the jump to Division I, we are going to have to recruit a lot better athletes than we did before,” Wallace said. “We want players that take their academics seriously, are willing to work hard and have the talent and intangibles that we want to have at this program,” “Most importantly, it starts by building those relationships with the head coaches around the area to bring good quality high school players,” he said. Throughout the entire Division I process, people have wondered where UNA will be 10 or even 20 years from now. Once finished, Wallace wants to leave UNA in a better position and also as a legitimate Division I university.

Former Coach Terry Bowden had a turbulent last semester with UNA. Here is an overview of his final days as a Lion.

The downfall of bowden

Sept. 1

Lions’ first win of the season vs. Central Oklahoma 31-10 Sept. 17 Lions’ win against Abilene Christian at Cowboys Stadium 23-17

Dec. 22

Oct. 27

Oct. 13

No. 1 Lions’ first loss to No. 2 Delta State 24-30

Bowden’s license suspended after failing to make a court appearance for speeding tickets issued in July.

Nov. 19

Officials announce Bowden’s employment with the Akron Zips

Dec. 2 Lions win first Bowden agrees to round of playoffs a one-year extenagainst West Alabama Nov. 26 sion in contract with UNA 43-27 Lions leave the playoffs with a loss to Delta State 14-42

Dec. 31

The termination of Bowden’s contract and official day of resignation

Page

Sports

8

Player of the week

Wallace brings different personality to UNA <WUUa *WT\WV

;XWZ\[ -LQ\WZ \JWT\WV(]VI ML]

Beaumont Beasley Hometown: Kansas City, Mo. Major: Finance Position: Guard Stats: Beasley averaged 26.5 ppg in two games last week, including a career of 30 pts. in the loss to West Alabama.

Week At A Glance

Women’s Basketball When: Friday, 6 p.m.

When I first walked into Head Coach Bobby Wallace’s new office, I figured it would look very similar to how former Coach Bowden’s office looked— crammed with clothes lying around and not much room to move. Even the seats had clothes draped over them every time I went in for an interview, so I literally had to move over some of his jackets or windbreaker pants just to get comfortable. As for how Wallace’s office looked, it had a peaceful feel to it. I had plenty of room to move around and no need to worry about moving anything just to sit down. I could tell just by the way the two offices looked what kind of personality each coach has.

Q. What are some of your hobbies when you are not at your job? A. One

thing I love to

Saturday, 1 p.m do in this area is getting out

on my boat. Also, I enjoy

Whe Flowers Hall playing golf, even though Where:

I’m not good at it, and, of

Who: Wh W o: 1. West Florida course, going to the beach 22. Valdosta State

house when I can.

Q. With the NFL Playoffs going on right now, is there a team you root for? A. I have a lot of connec-

Men’s Basketball

tions with coaches around the league, so usually I tend to pull for people more than I do for the team. I pull for the people that I know very well and try to show my support for them.

I can have a home in both places.

Q. When you’re driving to work in the mornQ. Is there a coach out ing and you there—past or present— turn on the that has really inspired you radio, what throughout your coaching kind of mucareer? sic would we hear? A. Almost 90 percent A. I’m of my philosophies about coaching were developed country all way. from Pat Dye, but those in- the are tangibles in football—the There many work ethic, player-coach so relationships and unself- bands, and ishness—to me, develop nowadays it the closeness of a football changes a lot, team, and that’s what I have but you have to like Toby learned from him. Keith, Kenny photo by MALISA MCCLURE I Chief Photographer Q. You said in your press Chesney and Bobby Wallace returns to UNA for his second stint conference that you made Taylor Swift. as the head coach of the Lions football team. the drive from the beach to Q. Do you have a falive here again in the Shoals Q. When you’re not area. Are you going to miss mous motto or quote that at the office, how are your anything about living by the you live by? cooking skills and what do coast? you enjoy to cook? A. ‘Treat others the way A. In all honesty, I think you want to be treated’ beA. I love to grill a lot. We it will be more enjoyable cause I think it’s important probably would grill five out when you go down there to on any football team to be of seven nights in a week, visit than it is actually living respectful to each other and and I usual cook anything there, but it’s always going for everybody to be happy. from chicken, steaks, to to be a place close to me and You get more out of play- shrimp, even though shrimp my wife. I’m very fortunate ers when they’re happy than might be hard to get here. to have a home here and when they’re upset. down there, so when I retire

Student-produced sports podcast gains popularity

When: Thursday, 8 p.m. 4]Ka *MZZa

-`MK]\Q^M -LQ\WZ Saturday, 3 p.m. TJMZZa(]VI ML]

Talking sports has always

Where: Whe Flowers Hall been a beloved pastime for UNA

students Ben Stevenson and

Who: Who 1. West Florida Parker Hendricks, who use social media sites, like Twitter, to

2. Valdosta State express their opinions. The pair

Be Sure to follow @FlorAlaSports on Twitter for live updates on UNA sports.

Thursday, January 12, 2011 • The Flor-Ala

often found themselves chatting back and forth about sports on the Internet, until they decided to take the discussion a step further with their own digital podcast. After exploring different sports podcasts online and looking into how to create one of their own, Stevenson and Hendricks made the decision to test it out last October. The podcast they now run 1-2 times each week is called Shoals Sports Talk, and it has already grabbed the attention of a number of prominent athletics officials in the area. Hendricks and Stevenson discuss a variety of sports topics with each podcast they record and produce, but always try to include opinions concerning UNA athletics. Hendricks said the podcast exists because they love sports and sharing their insights with other athletics fans. “This is one of those things that we enjoy doing regardless of whether or not people listen to

(the podcast),” he said. “We do it because it’s something fun to do and because we like sports.” Hendricks, an Alabama fan, and Stevenson, a Tennessee fan, enjoy sharing conflicting opinions on sports, and often have fans act as guests on each episode. They also feature call-in segments from Shoals Sports Talk listeners. Stevenson and Hendricks record the podcast from a spare bedroom in Hendricks’ home using two headsets, two computers, a microphone and recording software. They said the podcast is a “no-thrills” production, but they are looking to websites like UStream, which would allow them to record live video at athletics events in order to be more interactive with their audience. “With the podcast, if you want to get involved, you can,” Stevenson said. “If you send us a message, you’re going to get a shout out. It’s cool to know people in this community are listening because we like to keep (the podcast) close to home. “We’re talking national sports, but also UNA sports. Very few other things like this in the area have full segments on UNA.” So far, Shoals Sports Talk has gotten positive feedback from both UNA and Shoals communities. Stevenson said UNA

assistant baseball coach Matt Hancock and head basketball coaches Terry Fowler and Bobby Champagne have praised the student-run podcast. Other fans who have expressed interest in the podcast come from areas such as Florence, Auburn, Washington and Florida. Stevenson is a secondary education and social science double major and graduate of Sparkman High School. His aspiration after college is to become a teacher and baseball coach. Hendricks is a sports management major and graduate of Brooks High School. He plans to finish at UNA in July and attend graduate school next fall in order

to someday work in a collegiate athletic department. Hendricks, who works for the Department of Athletics at UNA, and Stevenson, who was manager for the UNA baseball team for four years, have connections to UNA sports officials. They said several UNA coaches are hoping to make guest appearances on the podcast in the future. Listeners can interact with Hendricks and Stevenson through Facebook, where they post questions and ask for opinions on a number of sports topics. To listen to past episodes of Shoals Sports Talk, visit www. shoalssportstalk.podomatic. com.

photo by BARRY MINOR I Staff Photographer

Parker Hendricks (left) and Ben Stevenson (right) work on their own sports podcast, which has gained popularity among coaches and fans.

Thursday, January 12, 2011 • The Flor-Ala

Sports

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9

Basketball team looks to rebound from loss 7ZZMa *WT\WV

;\INN ?ZQ\MZ WJWT\WV(]VI ML]

After a difficult month in December and the loss to West Alabama, UNA will try to get back on track at home Thursday against West Florida and Valdosta State Saturday.

GSC Basketball Standings

Team Conf. All Christian Bro. 2-0 11-2 West Georgia 1-1 14-2 UAH

1-1

9-3

West Florida

1-1

10-5

UNA

1-1

8-5

Valdosta State

1-1

7-5

West Alabama

1-1

3-10

Delta State

0-2

4-7

UNA (8-5, 1-1) made a huge splash in the conference last Thursday against then 25th ranked West Georgia with an 81-78 win. The Lions couldn’t capitalize on the momentum with a slip up against West Alabama (3-10, 1-1). “West Alabama was a good team, and their record doesn’t have anything to do with the type of team that they have after getting first team all-league guy eligible,” said UNA Head Men’s Basketball Coach Bobby Champagne. “There are absolutely no guaranteed wins in this league with the last for South region champions have went on to make it to the Elite Eight.” With the conference schedule starting to hit full swing for the Lions, home court advantage becomes key against a talented West Florida (10-5, 1-1). West Florida is a perfect example of attacking the goal with only making five three-point field goals on the year. Jamar Moore, averaging 16 points and eight rebounds a game, leads them. The Argonauts also are coming off a loss in the conference to the Christian Brothers. With an attempt to avoid going 1-2 in the conference, a battle will be on display Thursday at 8 p.m. “I think West Florida is one of the most talented teams in the league that I have seen play,” Champagne said. “They arguably have one of the best players in Jamar Moore and are very athletic with good interior passing. They are just amazing to watch because they don’t take any three pointers.” With hopes of gaining momentum after

photo by MALISA MCCLURE I Chief Photographer

Senior guard Beaumont Beasley prepares to keep the opponent from getting to the goal. Thursday’s game, UNA faces Valdosta State (7-5, 1-1) Saturday at 3 p.m. The Blazers play a similar style of basketball to the Lions with the ability to shoot the basketball. They are second in the league in scoring 78 points a game and led by Sydney Harris, who is averaging 14 points a game. “Valdosta is always an athletic team, but not as athletic as they have been in the past,” Champagne said. “They are similar to us and like to play a fast pace, as we do. We need to do a good job keeping them off the

glass and finding them in transition.” After suffering their first conference loss to rival West Alabama, UNA hopes to build off the home crowd against a tough conference schedule ahead of them. The results from the games against West Florida and Valdosta State can give a good picture of where the Lions will stand in the conference picture. Can’t make it to the games this week? @FlorAlaSports will be there with live updates throughout the games.

Thursday, January 12, 2012 • The Flor-Ala

News

Caucus, election talk comes to UNA Students, faculty chat about upcoming election, what candidates need to focus on *Ta\PM ;\MMTUIV

;\INN ?ZQ\MZ J[\MMTUIV(]VI ML]

The Iowa caucus, most commonly recognized as the first step in the election of the Democratic and Republican presidential candidates, took place Jan. 3. The Iowa and New Hampshire caucuses are used as a winnowing out process for both parties. The objective in these primaries is not necessarily winning, according to Dr. Tim Collins, associate professor of political science. “The key is not necessarily to win,� Collins said. “Rather, candidates should be looking to exceed expectations and gain momentum and publicity.� The 2012 Iowa Republican caucus was the closest race in the Iowa caucus history. There was a margin of only eight votes, with former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney taking the lead over Rick Santorum, the

.).;) KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM ria that you put in and list all scholarships relative to what you put in. James said not to pay to search for scholarships because there are many websites you can use that will do this for free. The deadline to apply for endowed scholarships for the 2012-2013 year at UNA

former senator of Pennsylvania. Rep. Ron Paul ran a close third. The remaining candidates for the Republican party (Michelle Bachmann dropped out of the race after a dismal showing at the Iowa caucus) will now move forward to the New Hampshire caucus and South Carolina. Romney, after winning in Iowa, is set up to do well in New Hampshire. While Collins stated that it’s still too early to know for sure who the Republican nominee will be, he said voters will see a change in the politics in upcoming months. “After South Carolina and as we’re moving into larger states, we’ll see a shift in politics,� Collins said. “It will move from more of a retail politics mindset, where candidates are meeting voters and shaking hands, to more of a wholesale politics mindset. Candidates will start buying television time and advertising space to reach the larger states.� A large majority of UNA students are closely following the path to the presidential election in November. Amanda Frazier, a sophomore nursing major, said that she is looking for a president with honest, moral convictions and a better plan for jobs in the future. “Going into the healthcare field, I am just as concerned about future jobs as any other student,� she said. “I want a president that will be able to secure and create more jobs, both in healthcare and other fields.� is Feb. 1. Another scholarship is the Coca-Cola Dream Scholarship. This scholarship requires a separate application from the endowed scholarship. The major criterion for this scholarship is if a student lives at home and no one in that home has a bachelor’s degree. The deadline for this scholarship is also Feb. 1.

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StudentĘźs fraternity hosts memorial

photo by KAYLA SLOAN I Staff Photographer

Members of Kappa Sigma fraternity remember Chad Silcox, one of their newest members last Tuesday night.

;14+7@ KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM Daws and Silcox met three years ago when they attended Calhoun Community College together. The two transferred to UNA and rushed Kappa Sigma together. “Chad was a great guy and he was a real good friend,� he said. “He would always help you out when you needed him to. You could call him any time you needed him and he would always help you out.� Silcox was easy to get along with and was a friend to everyone, Daws said. “Chad is one of those people it’s kind of hard not to like,� Daws said. “If you knew him, you got along with him.� Bishop Alexander, a graduate student and chaplain for Kappa Sigma fraternity, was one of the people responsible for organizing the memorial service for Silcox. “(We held the candle light vigil) mainly to show them the UNA perspective of just what he meant to Kappa Sigma here and in the UNA community,� he said. Silcox was a local celebrity back in his hometown, Alexander said. “Chad was very well known back in his hometown and he was just an all around great guy,� Alexander said. “I was blown away (at his funeral), he touched a lot of people back in his hometown. It showed how humble he was.� Kappa Sigma President Anthony Hester and other members of the fraternity gave Silcox an honorary badge. “It was just our way of telling him that he meant a lot to us,� Alexander said. Silcox’s pledge educator and fellow fraternity brother Jake Kimbrough spoke highly of him. “He had so many great qualities, and one of the many was how honest he was,� Kimbrough said. “I am just humbled to be

in just a little part of his life. We are just so happy to have gotten a little part of his life.� Brent Baker, one of Silcox’s hunting partners and fellow member of Kappa Sigma, remembered his smile. “He would want us all to be strong and keep our heads held high with that gigantic smile on,� Baker said. “I hope the Silcox family knows you raised an incredible son

�He would want us all to be strong and keep our heads held high with that gigantic smile on.�

-Brent Baker

and friend, and he will never be forgotten.� Vice President for Student Affairs David Shields spoke about Silcox and how he would want people to always smile and continue through life with a grin on their faces. “It’s always sad for us as a university when we lose a member of our family,� said. Silcox’s friends, family and fraternity brothers need to take the opportunity to remember him in a way that would make him smile, Shields said. “Chad would want us to smile and remember moments that he had with people,� Shields said. “Chad is alive in you through the memories that you have, and the memories that you share together.� Kappa Sigma is taking donations to pay for the Silcox’s final expenses and hospital payments. The fraternity is asking for people to make donations to their fund on their website at www.kappasigmauna. com.

8)/-)6< KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated pageant winner. “It’s not just about wearing a crown,� Jordan said. “It has purpose. It is about promoting your platform.� Jordan wishes to raise awareness about giving blood. She is excited about the pageant as well and said that working with Creative Jewelers was an “unforgettable experience.� Creative Jewelers’ contributions and the usual prestige of the event are not

the only reasons to be excited for the event, Mathis said. According to her, the current Miss UNA, Brandy Lewis, has taken extra care in perfecting the theme of the 2012 Miss UNA pageant, Latin Rhythm. “I am extremely excited this year, and I really can’t wait to just have fun the week of the pageant,� Hall said. “It was really great getting to know each contestant last year, and I hope to have the same experience.�

Thursday, January 12, 2011 • The Flor-Ala

Life

Alternatives to caffeine provide safe, effective energy source )VV 0IZSMa

;\INN ?ZQ\MZ IPIZSMa(]VI ML]

According to Web MD, more than 68 percent of Americans admitted to being addicted to coffee. College students have many reasons to flock to the energy-boosting substance. It perks up an early morning class, provides stamina for late-night study sessions and gives much needed energy to power through work. While caffeine in moderation is safe, an addiction could lead to serious future health problems. Caffeine in high doses can increase the risk of heart disease, high blood sugar, uneven nerves and a decrease in bone density. “Some caffeine is not harmful,” said Peggy Bergeron, a clinical nurse for UNA’s University Health Services. “One to two cups a day can actually help with diseases, such as Alzheimer’s. The problem with too much caffeine intake is when (students) try to get off of it; they can experience bad withdrawal symptoms.” Some UNA students are familiar with experiencing caffeine withdrawal. “I drink around 16 ounces of coffee every morning,” said Amber Terry, a pre-pharmacy student at UNA. “On the days I forget—usually if I am running late—I get headaches and become really sluggish. I feel like I need coffee to perform at my best.” Fortunately, there are some healthier and safer solutions to gaining the much needed energy a college student needs.

“A lot of people don’t realize that proper hydration can help with their energy level,” Bergeron said. “If your body is not properly hydrated, it won’t perform at its optimum level.” She also suggests that avoiding long naps, regulating a proper sleep schedule, setting a bedtime, getting fresh air and eating protein, such as from dairy or nuts, can help with maintaining a proper energy level. USA Today also gives suggestions for safe, healthy energy. They suggest that college students try adding a Vitamin B supplement to their diets. Mood disorders, poor concentration, and depression have all been linked to a Vitamin B deficiency. Working out for small bursts can also bring on energy. Another suggestion is eating smaller, more frequent meals. This allows the body to keep an even calorie usage, which can deter drops in energy. UNA students can avoid the dangers of caffeine by incorporating safer energy methods into their lifestyles, but cutting out all coffee, sodas and energy drinks can be difficult. “The best way to cut caffeine is to slowly decrease it week by week,” Bergeron said. “Gradual decrease is better.” She suggests that the rate of decrease depends on what type of caffeine is consumed on a regular basis. Energy drinks can be more difficult to taper out of a diet than coffee or soda. Coffee and sodas are easy pick-me-ups for the weary student, but it may be worth the headache to try some safer ways to get that boost.

Workin’ for the

Weekend

Check out what’s coming up this weekend in the Shoals Thursday, Jan. 12th Scott Boyer, Calvin Holly and MC Thurman of The Decoys DP’s 8 p.m. - 12 a.m.

Spencer Murphy Swampers Bar & Grill 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Barry Billings

Swampers Bar & Grill 8 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 13th Back to School Party (feat. Cheap Thrill DeVille, Raising the Ashes, Mostatonicus, Legend of Leviathan) Smokehouse 8 p.m.

Tosha Hill

Swampers Bar & Grill 9 p.m. - 12 a.m.

R*P*I

On the Rocks

Holli Mosely

DP’s 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Rusty Moody

Swampers Bar & Grill 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Brian Muse Band DP’s 9:00 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 14rd Second Creek DP’s 9 p.m.

Renegade

Smokehouse 10:00 p.m.

Five O’Clock Charlie On the Rocks

Dave Gallagher

Swampers Bar & Grill 9 p.m. - 12 a.m.

Page

12

Tweets of the week

START PUSHING YOURSELF.

START CHALLENGING YOURSELF. START DEVELOPING SKILLS. START BUILDING CONFIDENCE.

START RAISING THE BAR. START TAKING ON CHALLENGES. S.

START MAKING A DIFFERENCE.

START EARNING RESPECT.

START STRONG. SM

There’s strong. Then there’s Army Strong. Make Army ROTC part of your University of North Alabama experience and be eligible for a full-tuition scholarship, fees for books and a monthly stipend. When you’re finished, you’ll earn the rank of Second Lieutenant. Register for an ROTC elective today.

ASK ABOUT OUR SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AND SIMULTANEOUS MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM! Visit our office at Wesleyan Hall Annex Room 142. Contact Major Leslie Nelson at (256) 765-4458 or lnelson@una.edu or visit our web site at www.una.edu/rotc ©2008. Paid for by the United States Army. All rights reserved.

January 12, 2011 • The Flor-Ala DISCLAIMER: The tweets below are public tweets found on Twitter by searching hashtags involving UNA, Florence, Shoals and other university-related topics. Want to see yours on here? Be sure to hashtag UNA and Shoals in your tweets.

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