Jan. 22 Issue

Page 1

Chivalry is dead Page 1B Jan. 22, 2015

Volume 83, Issue 18

www.FlorAla.net

Student newspaper of the University of North Alabama

SGA

ACADEMICS

Legislation could address tobacco use KRISTEN GOODE

;/) *MI\ ?ZQ\MZ SOWWLM (]VI ML]

While an SGA proposal to ban cigarettes on campus blew up in a puff of smoke last year, senators say the organization will pursue similar legislation again in 2015. Currently 17 out of the 36 public and private four-year colleges and universities in Alabama have a smoking ban in place. Recently, Stillman College in Tuscaloosa and the University of Alabama at Birmingham have chosen to go completely tobacco-free. SGA Senate Pro Tempore Sarah Emerson says UNA may not be far behind. Emerson introduced smoke-free legalization to Senate last school year, but it was not adopted. This year she is helping senators form a committee to help determine if a smoke-free campus is what UNA students, faculty and staff want. Emerson said the committee would allow students from all three branches of SGA — Senate, UPC and Freshman Forum — to work together on the issue.

”I DONʼT HAVE A PROBLEM

WITH SMOKING, BUT I DO HAVE A PROBLEM WITH CIGARETTE BUTTS. IʼM ALL ABOUT A CLEANER CAMPUS.

JEREMIAH PIERCE

FRESHMAN

Vice President for Student Affairs David Shields said SGA is starting another conversation about how tobacco use affects campus. “It is important not to make an arbitrary decision without input from shared governance,” Shields said. Shields said the conversation covers smoking, smokeless tobacco products and e-cigarettes. He pointed to UAB’s decision to include vaping in its no-smoking policy. Freshman Jeremiah Pierce said if UNA goes tobaccofree, the ban should only include cigarettes, not e-cigarettes, vaping and chewing tobacco. Although Emerson believes a smoking ban would be good for UNA, she said, “Is this the right time for our campus?” needs to be asked. Freshman Altora Winston said she is not sure if a smoking ban is right for UNA. “Everybody doesn’t smoke, so smokers need to be considerate of others,” Winston said. She said breathing smoke is a choice people make for themselves, not others. “I would (support a smoking ban),” Shields said. “It wouldn’t bother me. If it is something that the campus wants, I would support that.” He said the question to ask is ‘how would it enhance the campus environment if we move to a nonsmoking policy?’ “I don’t think that smoking on campus really affects people’s opinion of this campus,” said freshman Jeremiah Pierce. “I don’t have a problem with smoking, but I do have a problem with cigarette butts. I’m all about a cleaner campus.” Last semester Senate passed a resolution encouraging the university police department to enforce the current smoking and tobacco regulations. The current university tobacco-use policy states no smoking is allowed within 30 feet of entrance, exits, open windows and interconnected breezeways. “The term tobacco-free shall be interpreted to mean all forms of smoking tobacco, such as cigarettes, cigars and pipes, as well as smokeless tobacco products, such as snuff and chewing tobacco,” according to the policy.

;MM ;57316/ XIOM )

Integrative health still not meeting expectations ANNA BROWN

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

Low enrollment and financial barriers continue to plague the up-and-coming integrative health program. Officials said they expected a large number to enroll in the program during the fall 2014 semester, but that has not happened as of the spring semester’s start. “There’s not a lot going on right now, but the program is not dead,” said Interim University President John Thornell. “The program is still viable.” UNA entered a partnership with Chinese businessman Zhang Zhiting to help launch the integrative health program. With that partnership came the Zhang’s purchase of the Florence Golf and Country club.

”T

HEREʼS NOT A LOT GOING

ON RIGHT NOW, BUT THE PROGRAM IS NOT DEAD. THE PROGRAM IS STILL VIABLE.

JOHN THORNELL INTERIM UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT Zhang purchased the property with hopes to build an integrative health facility, said Thomas Coates, chair of the Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, which houses the program. “The chairman bought it,” Thornell said. “He didn’t consult us in terms of asking. He said, ‘I think that’s a good property.’” University officials earlier anticipated Zhang would recruit a large number of Chinese students to enroll in the program.

;MM 0-)4<0 XIOM )

INSIDE

this week’s paper

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

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

SPORTS ON TV.....5B

Please recycle your paper.

2A NEWS

Jan. 22, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

ENROLLMENT

Firm says university lacks marketing plan ANNA GRACE USERY -LQ\WZ QV +PQMN MLQ\WZ(NTWZITI VM\

BIGʼ MARKETING RECOMMENDATIONS ARE AS FOLLOWS:

MyUNA! billboards are popping up around the Tennessee Valley, all in hopes of increasing enrollment, and officials are now rethinking UNA’s marketing strategy. During fall 2014, UNA outsourced Big Communications, a firm tasked with assessing university branding and marketing, to offer its recommendations of improvement. Founder and president of the agency John Montgomery and Chief Brand Officer Mark Ervin visited campus Jan. 15 and confirmed UNA is in need of a sound marketing strategy. “Higher education is much more financially dependent on enrollment these days, and marketing has been ratcheted up to a very important piece,” Interim President John Thornell said. Ervin said improvements in UNA’s marketing strategy could help increase enrollment after the university’s five year decline. The firm has worked with schools including Jacksonville State University and the University of Montevallo and has seen enrollment spike. UNA faces many challenges with its retention rates, which could be in part to the seismic shift in mobile and tabletbased interaction from the Generation Z crowd, Ervin said. The firm offered several suggestions for a UNA marketing strategy, and determined the university possesses the skills to develop it internally. Several audience members, mostly UNA faculty and staff, voiced concern about how long the plan would take.

1. “The university marketing department needs a champion, a leader. 2. Develop an admissions strategy that reflects market shifts, like expand its geographical footprint, assess adding admissions staff and overhaul customer relationship management software. 3. Create and implement a marketing budget and an annual marketing plan to provide vision needed to clearly communicate UNA brand. 4. Develop an annual media plan and strategy to articulate the right message to the right person at the right time. 5. Establish a widespread, long-term internal engagement around marketing, because each department within the university utilizes marketing. 6. Determine the ideal student profile (target audience) to govern all marketing and recruiting. 7. Discover and clarify a longterm brand strategy to articulate UNAʼs unique selling proposition. 8. Analyze and improve digital experience to communicate the defined UNA voice.”

“How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time,” Ervin said. “This isn’t going to happen overnight.” Director of Institutional Research Andrew Luna confirmed his office is currently in researching enrollment and retention to better implement a marketing

plan to gear toward incoming students. President Pro Tempore of the board of trustees Marty Abroms said this plan should take effect as soon as students step in the door.

;MM 5):3-<16/ XIOM )

photo by DEANNA KAMPMEYER I Staff Photographer

Officials gather to hear Big Communications’ marketing report for the university Jan. 15. The firm determined UNA is in need of a sound marketing strategy for its future endeavors.

NATIONAL

Campus discusses presidentʼs free college plan DUSTIN POLLARD

;XWZ\[ -LQ\WZ [XWZ\[(NTWZITI VM\

President Barack Obama released plans to give students across the U.S. two years of free community college during an appearance in Tennessee Jan. 9. The White House said it expects 9 million students to participate and save up to $3,800 per year for two years. The Tennessee Promise, a free community college plan starting in the fall, influenced Obama’s proposal. Director of Admissions Kim Mauldin said she is encouraged the nation is embracing an opportunity to give everyone a chance to go to college. “If it’s going to work like the initial press release says it is going to, then it will be a funding of last resort,” she said.

“Otherwise, a student in high school would have to apply for federal aid. If you receive federal aid, that is what will be applied first. But it’s the next tier of students that may not be full Pell Grant eligible. Those are the ones, if they’re not receiving any other institutional aid, that will receive this assistance.” Interim Vice President of Enrollment Management Vince Brewton said the plan may hurt UNA in the short term but could help the university in the long run. “If Northwest-Shoals and Calhoun community colleges benefit from this program, ultimately we would benefit as well,” he said. “We may not benefit the first year, but eventually we will. The more vocational and technical graduates from community colleges we have in the Shoals, the healthier our economy is. And that helps UNA.”

”

IF NORTHWEST-SHOALS AND CALHOUN

COMMUNITY COLLEGES BENEFIT FROM THIS PROGRAM, ULTIMATELY WE WOULD BENEFIT AS WELL.

WE MAY NOT BENEFIT THE FIRST YEAR, BUT EVENTUALLY WE WILL.

VINCE BREWTON INTERIM VICE PRESIDENT OF ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT Brewton said UNA is not necessarily worried the proposal will hurt the university’s enrollment. “We will continue to emphasize the

value of the degree that we’re offering,” he said. “There are advantages to coming here and spending four years at a four-year institution in terms of the relationships with faculty you can build and the professional network you can build, which often takes more than two years to do.” Senior Lesley Scott came to UNA straight out of high school and said she does not regret her decision of choosing a four-year school. She joined SGA her first year at UNA, then the Black Student Alliance and NAACP as a sophomore. “The benefit of coming to UNA is that you’re getting the full college experience as opposed to going to a community college,” Scott said. Editor’s note: To read the rest of this story, visit www.florala.net.

NEWS 3A

Jan. 22, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

CONSTRUCTION

New projects to begin, current construction on time ASHLEY REMKUS

6M_[ -LQ\WZ VM_[(NTWZITI VM\

People who spent time on campus recently most likely noticed the seas of white hard hats and yellow caution tape denoting several construction sites. Officials said a cold weather snap earlier this month had minimal effects on the construction of the new science building and two new residence halls. “The schedule seems to still be holding,” said Assistant Vice President for Facilities Administration and Planning Michael Gautney. “We’ve had a few issues with the exterior work because of the weather, rain and subfreezing temperatures, but everything should be made up over the long term.” He said the contractors maintain twoweek detailed schedules that are regularly updated. If the work falls behind or pulls ahead, the schedules are adjusted to ensure the projects stay on schedule, he said. Officials said the science building project is expected to be completed soon, as the construction contract is active through mid-February. Gautney said the work currently involves final checks to the ground floor and decorative projects on the second

and third floors. “All the mechanical, electrical and plumbing is finished,” he said. “We’re working on carpet and tile on the other floors. We still have to do the landscaping and sidewalks.” Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Carmen Burkhalter said the future of Floyd Hall will be determined by a committee headed by Gautney, but no decision has been made. Biology professor Paul Kittle said the students and faculty in his department are thankful they will soon be in a new facility. “Really, for the students, it’s just going to be a better environment,” Kittle said. “We have a terrible climate control system in Floyd. It’s either too hot or too cold. And, the new labs are going to be much more spacious.” Senior Shawn Overton said he agrees the new science building will give students a more comfortable work area. He said he has taken classes before in the building and temperatures were too high to be productive. “It was really hard to get anything done, especially in the summer,” Overton said. “It was so hot we had to keep the windows open.” Kittle said packing materials can be

found in Floyd, as faculty are preparing for the move. “The professors are going to have some research space they don’t have currently,” he said. “It’ll be a place where students will want to stay.” Kittle said more research space contributes to the classroom because students will now have more opportunities to interact with faculty research. Overton said the extra space in the new building will benefit larger classes. He said some of the classes he has taken in Floyd were cramped. The construction of two new residence halls will provide new housing for about 760 students, replacing Rice and Rivers halls. Vice President for Student Affairs David Shields indicated in an earlier interview the future of the two old halls has not yet been determined. Gautney said the new halls remain on track for the first to open in August, coinciding with the implementation of a freshman live-on requirement. The second building is expected to open January 2015. Two indoor construction projects are also expected to begin soon, Gautney said. Junior Kyle Crown and Sophomore

James Gasque said the new halls will likely improve the campus landscape. Students said the people who visit campus during SOAR in the summer would be more likely to choose to attend UNA if they stay in nicer residences. Officials formerly announced renovation of the former University Bookstore in the GUC would begin during the 2014 fall semester. The project will create a new Student Engagement Center. “We don’t have a schedule currently,” Gautney said. “We’re getting final drawings completed for the state to approve. We will start that project hopefully some time in March.” The project is intended to create a larger, more welcoming environment for students, said Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Tammy Jacques, in an earlier interview. Vice President for Business and Financial Affairs Clinton Carter said the budget for the renovation is $250,000. Gautney said the project will likely fall below that amount. Crown said although the cost of the project is high, as long as the results benefit students, he is in favor.

;MM 8:72-+<; XIOM )

photo by KAITLIN DOUGLAS I Staff Photographer

The new science building towers toward the sky Jan. 18. Assistant Vice President for Facilities Administration and Planning Michael Gautney said better weather conditions make the project easier to complete, although, the recent cold weather snap did not put construction behind schedule.

4A IMAGES

Jan. 22, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

“KAT”PTURING THE MOMENT

▶

Photo Shoot Middle Tennessee State University student, Nolan Knight, takes photos of his friends from Georgia, Savannah Moody and Alyssa Speir, who attend Georgia College and Georgia State University, respectively.

KATLYN SHANNON

+PQMN 8PW\WOZIXPMZ S[PIVVWV(]VI ML]

▶

Stand Tall Nolan Knight poses in downtown Nashville near Marathon Music Works. He and his friends from Georgia were visiting for a show.

they seem to feel the same way about the towns that their schools are in. I suppose it is natural to feel that way when you are around the same thing as frequently as we all are. That being said, it is fun to drive to these bigger cities to meet with friends from the area to explore what it has to offer. I visited my friend Nolan Knight, who attends Middle Tennessee State University, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee recently along with two of his friends who attend Georgia State and Georgia College. We wandered around the outskirts of downtown Nashville and I took the liberty of exercising my creative talents and photographing the experience. I absolutely love going to places I am not familiar with and seeing what I can capture there. New places offer new opportunities. Be that to meet new people, make new friends, find new music, food, or clothing, traveling makes for great stories and experiences.

Strike a Pose Moody and Spier pose near Marathon Music Works during their vacation to Nashville. ▶

▶

Strange Faces Savannah Moody and Alyssa Speir explore Grimey’s, a record store on the outskirts of downtown Nashville, on an outing together during the 3-day weekend. Photo by Nolan Knight.

Sometimes it seems like Florence does not have enough to offer when compared to the bigger cities that many of us are used to. Florence is, however, moderately close to bigger cities with more to do and more to see. Being an hourand-a-half from Huntsville and two to two-and-a-half hours from Birmingham makes it convenient to visit those places. We are two-and-a-half hours from Nashville and five from Atlanta, but if you are okay with a long drive, it is well worth your time. All of these cities feel as if they have so much more for us to “do” — a wider variety of bars to frequent, places to eat and stores to shop. The malls are much more diverse when it comes to shops, and these cities have a larger variety of locations to explore. Nonetheless, I have talked with other students who live in these surrounding cities and attend schools there, and

NEWS 5A

Jan. 22, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

ENTERTAINMENT

Contestants prepare for Miss UNA 2015 competition ANNA BROWN

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

The Flor-Ala file photo

Miss UNA 2013 Emily Winkler crowns Miss UNA 2014 Erica Kelly Jan 25, 2014 in Norton Auditorium. The 41st Miss UNA pageant is Jan. 24 at 7 p.m.

Bundle up next weekend for the 2015 Miss UNA scholarship Pageant “Winter Wonderland.” Fourteen women will compete for the title of 41st Miss UNA Jan. 24. Each year since 1974, young women have competed for scholarship and the title of Miss UNA. Caitlin Brunell, Miss Alabama 2014, will host the pageant. Contestants will be judged on four categories: on-stage question, swimsuit, talent and evening wear. The contestants not only compete for their own fame, but also for a good cause. Each woman chooses a platform to promote throughout her preparations for the pageant. Sophomore contestant Alexis Aday’s platform is Human Trafficking Awareness. “Miss UNA has inspired me because it (is) the perfect opportunity to raise awareness for my platform,” Aday said. Aday has worked hands-on with human trafficking organizations, and also conducted a two-week study on human trafficking in Alabama. Junior contestant Meredith Hamner’s platform is music therapy and education. “I chose this platform two years ago because I believe in the power that music has to make a positive difference in individual’s lives,” she said. “Music is my passion and I believe music should be as important as other areas of study.”

Hamner competed in the Miss America circuit before Miss UNA. Junior contestant Sarai Ingle’s platform is Alzheimer’s Awareness. She said working with the Alzheimer’s community has been an amazing experience. Junior contestant Rachel Wammack’s platform is Vitamin Angels. “I wrote a song that has become a banner song for my platform for the foundation,” she said. “Whenever I sell one of my CD’s, one dollar of my CD goes toward the foundation.” Ingle said she is excited to see the set for this year’s pageant. “What makes the Miss UNA pageant so special to me is not only do I have a passion for the Miss America organization but also this school,” Hamner said. Director of Student Engagement Thompson said the pageant could not be what it is without student support. “The talented young women are the stars of the show, but it’s the strong student support of the pageant that make it so special,” Thompson said. Editor’s note: To read the rest of this story, visit www.florala.net. Staff writer Anna Brown attempted to contact all Miss UNA contestants, but only quotes from those who responded before deadline are included. For an updated story, please visit the website. To obtain tickets, visit the Office of Student Engagement in the GUC.

COMMUNITY

University enters kickstart partnership with Florence High KRISTEN GOODE

;/) *MI\ ?ZQ\MZ SOWWLM (]VI ML]

UNA is partnering with Florence High School to start a dual enrollmenttype program that officials anticipate will help enrollment. Beginning this fall, several Florence High School juniors will take classes for both high school and college credit. The idea for the program came about during a lunch conversation between Interim University President Thornell and Janet Womack, superintendent of Florence City Schools. Womack said they were discussing the question: what other possibilities do we have to partner together? The answer developed into a new program that is an expansion of the current early college program, First 30, which allows high schoolers to complete the first 30 hours of a college degree before they graduate. Carmen Burkhalter, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, said she is very excited about the program. “What we’re doing is expanding

(dual enrollment) so that we have a very specific cohort of students that will start at the same time to get their 30 hours. They will start their junior year and move through those 30 hours together.” A cohort is a minimum of 25 students, and Burkhalter and Womack say they believe the relationships made between the students in a cohort and professors will make the First 30 students more likely to choose UNA after high school. “What is significant to me is that this cohort concept gives us the freedom to then create a learning community that will learn more about campus life and potentially be a recruiting opportunity for students,” Burkhalter said. However, because the credits will transfer to colleges and universities in Alabama, the students are not required to attend UNA after high school. “How is this benefitting the school if students aren’t required to come to UNA upon completion?” said junior Adrian Caruthers. As much as the university pushes marketing, it’s like we’re setting ourselves up to be used.” The classes will be offered online, on campus, and at Florence High School,

and will be taught by UNA professors. Tuition will be $150 per course, plus lab fees where required.

”

HOW IS THIS BENEFITTING THE SCHOOL IF STUDENTS ARENʼT REQUIRED TO COME TO UNA UPON COMPLETION? AS MUCH AS THE UNIVERSITY PUSHES MARKETING, ITʼS LIKE WEʼRE SETTING OURSELVES UP TO BE USED.

ADRIAN CARUTHERS JUNIOR “I believe the students doing this program should pay the same amount of money we do for our classes,” Caruthers said. “I don’t think the program is fair to the people who never had the opportunity to do this program. That being said, I would’ve already graduated by now. It’s not fair.” With a new program comes the

possibility for new challenges, but Womack and Burkhalter said they anticipate positive results from the pilot group this fall. “I don’t see problems,” Womack said. “I see opportunities. I think that anytime you start a new adventure you’re going to have challenges. But if you never step off the cliff to take that challenge, then you can’t get to ultimate great results.” Womack said she believes the program will help build unity between Florence City Schools, the community, and UNA. “I think I speak for the board, our administrators, our families and students and our employees as a whole when I say how much we appreciate the fact that we live in a community where UNA is willing to step out and not just be the status-quo as to what other universities are doing,” she said. Womack said she believes engaging students early will make them more likely to choose UNA. Editor’s note: To read the rest of this story, visit www.florala.net.

6A NEWS 5):3-<16/ KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM ) “It’s not just the marketing, but it’s the implementation of institutionalizing the ideals of this plan, so once we get the students here we can keep them,� Abroms said. He said declining enrollment is not UNA’s only issue, but that retention rates needed a boost as well. Vice President for Enrollment Management Thomas Calhoun said he thought the findings were spot on. Calhoun said the firm can help with identifying the students UNA needs to market itself to. “They seem to have a finger on the pulse, and they were helpful articulating who the current students are,� Calhoun said. He said the university decision makers need to decide two things: who will lead and how to pay for the endeavor. “This isn’t going to be an overnight thing, but that doesn’t mean we can’t get started,� he said. Thornell said it is ultimately up the university to drive this project. “We’ve done the audit; we have the recommendations and momentum — we’re going to make this work,� he said. Editor’s note: This is the second in a periodical series of articles about enrollment at UNA. Stick with The Flor-Ala for updates regarding the administrative efforts to combat declining enrollment.

Jan. 22, 2015 • The Flor-Ala 8:72-+<; KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM ) “If RSO’s will have more space to work on posters and banners and projects like that, it will be better than the other office,â€? said Sophomore Nikki Lowery. Officials also announced last fall the Norton Auditorium bathrooms would soon be renovated, and Gautney said the $160,000 project is expected to begin in August and be completed around midNovember, pending state approval. Because the auditorium is used to host university events, construction schedules had to be planned based on when the building would be available, he said. Officials said the budget for the project is $160,000, but Gautney anticipates costs could be higher. “We’re actually having to add restrooms in Norton to meet building code requirements,â€? he said. We have to increase the number of toilets from six to 11 in the women’s restroom. The men’s doesn’t have the same requirements. There will be four toilets, and six urinals instead of three.â€? Sophomore Emily Ownby said improving the bathrooms will make a better impression of campus to the community. “I’ve heard alumni joke (the bathrooms) look like they did 30 years ago,â€? Ownby said. “I think if the money’s there and people are on board, the bathrooms should be updated, especially since community people use Norton for noncampus events.â€? photo by KAITLIN DOUGLAS I Staff Photographer She said as the university expands, Steel frames remain exposed on parts of a new residence hall Jan. 18. Assistant older buildings and facilities also need to Vice President for Facilities Administration and Planning Michael Gautney said be updated. the first building will open in August with the second following in January.

Conveniently located in the new Student Commons building on campus! Creative Jewelers owner Billy H ammock gives a showroom tour for Brandi L ewis, M iss UNA 2011. T he store has the largest custom and brand name jewelry selection in Northwest Alabama.

Over 100 rotating flavors Over 50 toppings to choose from

The Shoals’ Only True Custom Design Jeweler. Featuring on-site designers and state-of-the-art computer-aided design technology. choose your stone. design your masterpiece. realize your vision.

Mix and match to create a one of a kind taste that you love!

facebook.com/frostbitetreats | twitter.com/frostbitefroyo | frostbite-treats.com

216 N. Court St., Florence, AL 35630 ‹ Mon.-Fri.: 9-5, Sat.: 10-3 256-766-7650 á www.CreativeJewelersOnline.com L ook for the B ig P urple Awning in His toric Downtown F lore nc e !

VIEWPOINTS 7A

Jan. 22, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

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

ASHLEY REMKUS

6M_[ -LQ\WZ VM_[(NTWZITI VM\

When potential students visit campus for the first time, they hear all about the benefits of attending UNA. They are told why this university is better than the other million choices they have. Among the list of reasons is, “It’s small enough the professors and administrators actually get to know you and care about you. The classes are small, so you’re more than just a number.” Or, they hear something similar, at least. Although classes are small, for the most part (or at least compared to larger universities), I think many students feel intimidated by

The deadline for submitting letters is 10 a.m. Monday, the week of publication. Letters must not exceed 400 words.

The Flor-Ala prefers to publish your letters exactly as written, but reserves the right to reject slanderous or libelous material. The publication of any letter is left to the discretion of the Editorial Board. Priority is given to letters critical of The Flor-Ala, or written in direct response to an editorial, a column, or a news story. When the editors deem it necessary for ease of understanding or to clarify facts, an Editorʼs Note may accompany a letter. Address correspondence to The Flor-Ala. UNA Box 5300 Florence, AL 35632. Email: florala@una.edu. Phone: 256-765-4364

Obviously upper-level administrators do not spend every day in the classroom. Something that might look good on paper is not always good in action. Until it is brought to attention, nothing will change. So, for all you students out there experiencing difficulty on campus, talk to your professors, deans, department chairs, somebody. These people are here to help you. They want to help you — especially at this special place we call UNA. What happened with my class? Well, things did not turn out exactly like I might have hoped. A larger classroom was not available for us. But, we were offered switching to a different section of the course or to the Microeconomics course. My satisfaction is knowing the leadership at UNA cares about my concerns — and yours. Thank you, Dr. Greg Carnes, and the rest of the faculty and staff, for your care for the students of UNA.

Light-hearted story encourages making new friends

Letters Policy

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

— hearing speeches about semester expectations, overloading my backpack with syllabi and grieving the cost of one of my textbooks. Later I realized, “Oh my gosh. There are 79 people in my class, and some of them couldn’t see from where they were sitting.” After a little contemplation, I decided I would contact the dean. What could he say besides “I don’t care,” “I’ll get right on that,” or “stop whining”? Anyway, I dialed the College of Business, asked to speak to the dean and the receptionist prompted me to hold so she could transfer me. At this point, I was not paying much attention because I expected it would ring a few times, I would leave a message and he would call me back later. But, when the dean greeted me, I introduced myself and explained I had some concerns about my class because of the location. He immediately took down my contact information and said he would look into the situation.

college administrators — even those at UNA. When students have a bad experience or face some type of difficulty on campus, they tend to remain silent, or they turn to social media to publicly identify their problems. I personally have had a great experience the last three and a half years on this campus. But, when I walked into my Macroeconomics class the first Thursday of this semester, my mouth dropped when I saw the number of students waiting for class to begin. I searched the room for an empty seat and made my way through a narrow row to an empty desk near the middle of the room. When our professor arrived, he announced there were 79 students enrolled in the course. Students were seated in locations that inhibited their ability to see the board. The classroom was not designed for such a large number of occupants. I went through the first-day-of-class motions

ANNA GRACE USERY -LQ\WZ QV +PQMN MLQ\WZ(NTWZITI VM\

Life is full of surprising places if you are willing and intoxicated enough to travel there. That being said, allow me to reiterate why making new friends is often a noteworthy experience. Last Saturday night I decided to treat myself to a

steak dinner after the first round of classes commenced. I rummaged through my Christmas money and behind the six Buffalo Wild Wings gift cards I received, (no joke!) I found a $25 gift card to Outback Steakhouse. Now, if you have ever been to the land down under, you know to never go on a Saturday, especially around dinnertime. Well, the hunger pangs hit and I pulled into the parking lot around 5:45 p.m. Saturday evening. Everyone and their momma’s brother’s sister’s aunt’s nieces and nephews were there and I parked in the back 40. “It’ll be an hour-and-a-half wait,” the disheveled waitress

said, trying not to step on her own coffee-stained shoelaces. My head dropped, I took a pager and moped over to a corner booth spot a 400-pound woman so graciously offered me. After straining to watch the last quarter of the Ravens game on TV, I decided to leave the knitting conversation in search of a better view. And there I saw it — a wide-open bar. I decided it would be worth my time to sit at the bar, have a drink and wait for my table to be called. “Got-dammit. Throw the ball, Flacco!” the gentleman in dingy sweatpants and a leather jacket yelled at the TV, shaking his pale fist. I’ll call him Chris

INTERESTED IN APPLYING? Positions Available

News Editor Life Editor Sports Editor

Online Editor Graphic Designers

Visit orgsync.com/32291/chapter

Staff Photographers Account Representatives Apply by Feb. 28.

for the remainder of the story. I settled in with a rum and coke (three minutes before happy hour ended, whew) and continued to comfortably watch the game. As the liquor hit my bloodstream, I struck up the conversation with Chris, as it is good bar etiquette. I told him my story and we exchanged some heartfelt words about life and football. Looking down at my phone, I noticed an hour had passed since I was sitting there, chatting and drinking. I ditched the pager and ordered from the bar — sirloin, mashed potatoes and coconut shrimp. Editor’s Note: To read the rest of this story, visit www. florala.net

Congratulations to our Writer and Photographer of the Week! Anna Brown and Kaitlin Douglass

8A NEWS

;57316/ KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM )

Interim Police Chief Mark Parker noted some of the changes made recently to campus to encourage the enforcement of the current policy, like the removal of the hut near the GUC that was a popular place for people to smoke. “The area was encouraging a violation of the policy because it was five feet from the doors of the GUC,” Shields said. Junior Hayden Henderson said he is

Jan. 22, 2014 • The Flor-Ala OK with the current smoking policy and thinks the Senate’s resolution asking that current smoking regulations be enforced was a good decision. “I wouldn’t go tobacco-free,” he said. “People dip, and that doesn’t bother anybody. But smoking should be in designated areas.” Ultimately, a decision on changing the current tobacco policy will have to come down from the president and executive council of the university, Shields said. Resolutions passed by SGA act as

the organization’s official stance on the issue. They do not have immediate policy-changing effects. Shields said the most important factor in any decision made regarding a new tobacco use or smoking policy should be what faculty, staff and students want. SGA members ask students, faculty and staff, and community members to email comments, questions or concerns to sgafeedback@una.edu, or to attend Senate’s weekly meetings Thursdays at 3:30 p.m. in GUC Room 200.

SGA in Review • Senate - Spent part of its funds to print 22 one-sided pages of the Code of Laws for each Senator. The document is available online. • Senate - Tabled a bill to remove the SGA Fountain 5K endowed scholarship fundraiser from the Code of Laws until a replacement event is named.

photo by KATLYN SHANNON I Chief Photographer

Students Hassan Al Ali, Ali AlMubarak and Mohammed Al Ali gather outside the GUC Jan. 16 to smoke while discussing the day’s events. SGA leaders have expressed intentions to present a campus smoking ban later this year.

0-)4<0 KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM ) “What we need is for people to enroll, and we have not had that,” Coates said. “At the current time we have one graduate student in the program.” Officials said the program is geared toward Asian students because of the popularity of integrative health studies, such as non-traditional approaches to fitness, herbal treatment and acupuncture, in Asian countries. There has been some student interest, but few applications to the program, Coates said.

Thornell also said the community and campus interest is valuable, but it is not likely to help program enrollment. “The problem is the career path in the U.S. for integrative health is not clearly defined,” he said. “If we have to depend purely on the domestic students, we probably won’t have the student traffic to support the program.” Zhang was last on campus in September 2014 to further discuss building plans for the facilities to be built at the Florence Golf and Country Club. “My impression was he did not seem terribly comfortable with the cost estimates or the progress being made,” Thornell said.

Senior Vice Provost for International Affairs Chunsheng Zhang said he does not know if Zhang Zhiting will be able to send students from China to enroll. “I think there are all kinds of challenges,” Chunsheng Zhang said. “The bottom line is this: we may design the best program, but if the students choose not to participate there’s nothing you can do.” Thornell said the curriculum for the integrative health program has been approved by the Alabama Commission on Higher Education; now the goal is getting the students. “I think the program is very solid academically,” Coates said. “I am excited

• Senate - Announced it will form a committee to gather student, faculty and staff opinion about a potential tobacco or smoking ban. about the potential for the program, but we need the numbers.” The small integrative health field in the U.S. leads UNA officials to doubt to viability of the program if it has to solely rely on domestic students. Assistant Professor Amy Zhang currently teaches integrative health on a one-year appointment. “She taught two graduate courses last semester in integrative health,” Coates said. “We’re trying to gauge the interest of possibly some of the undergraduate students moving in that direction.” Editor’s note: To read the rest of this story, visit www.florala.net.

Your Ad Here For more information call 256-765-4427

Email advertising@florala.net

LIFE

SECTION B

Jan. 22, 2015• The Flor-Ala

DATING

Is chivalry dead?

Students discuss evolution of chivalry MELISSA PARKER

;\INN ?ZQ\MZ UXIZSMZ!(]VI ML]

American pop singer Nelly Furtado once sang, “Chivalry is dead but you’re still kind of cute,” in her hit “Promiscuous.” Although the song was released in 2006, the question of chivalry’s death still looms over millennial heads. Chivalry is the knightly system of religious, moral and social code, according to the Oxford English Dictionary. For some students, chivalry has evolved greatly. “I think chivalry is something more than just men and women,” said senior Andrew Kelly. “I think chivalry is opening doors for same sex, opposite sex, old and young.” Chivalry has changed, but is not dead, he said. “It comes out of a medieval martial tradition of war and soldiers,” said Cheryl Price, assistant professor of English. “It started with knights, royalty, people of the aristocracy and the fighters of the aristocracy.” As a code of conduct, chivalry is built on three things:

IN THIS SECTION

how a person serves their lord or king, their religion and women or those too weak to protect themselves, she said. Chivalry was practiced throughout much of Europe. A knight would serve his lady, fight for her honor and go on quests in her name, Price said. “If you’re going to venerate a woman, you do have to put her up on a pedestal so she’s also forced to obey a certain moral code and code of conduct just like the knight is,” she said. The practice of chivalry was restrictive, Price said. Both men and women were expected to live up to this ideal. “I think when we talk about chivalry nowadays, that’s more coming out of the tradition

of the gentleman from the 19th Century,” she said. Senior Deondrick Orr said chivalry is being taught as a way to start a relationship instead of the way a gentleman should act.

LIFE

;MM +01>)4:A XIOM *

SPORTS

Writer reviews coffee blends See page 2B

“Selma” Review See page 3B

Sports fans talk TV vs. attending games

Female coaches sparse

See page 5B

See page 7B

2B LIFE

Jan. 22, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

REVIEW

Writer samples six coffee brands in search of best blend ANNA BROWN

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

January brings frigid temperatures and the start of a new semester at UNA. Cold walks across campus and late-night study sessions demand something to keep you warm and to help you stay energized so you can conquer the semester. I reviewed several coffee blends to find the best brew for you. All coffee blends can be purchased from Wal-Mart except Einsteins Bros. and Death Wish.

Einstein Bros. Bagels Cinnamon Winter Blend This coffee will definitely wake you up in the morning — well, your taste buds, at least. I understand why this coffee is called “Cinnamon Winter Blend.” There is an unmistakable cinnamon flavor with hints of vanilla and nutmeg thrown into the mix. Students can find this coffee fresh at Einstein’s Bagels inside the GUC. Although this coffee is quite delicious, it will leaves a bad aftertaste. There is no doubt you will have coffee breath after downing a cup with your breakfast.

Death Wish Coffee Company

Maxwell House 100% Colombian

Death Wish Coffee has to be the World’s Strongest Coffee. This coffee is organic, shade-grown and fair trade. “Based on our brewing recommendation a cup of Death Wish Coffee should have twice the amount of caffeine and loads more flavor than your typical store bought coffee,” according Death Wish Coffee’s FAQ page. The aroma of this coffee was rich, chocolate and nutty flavored. It smelled like one of the world’s strongest coffees, but I was pleasantly surprised by its smoothness. It had no unpleasant burnt flavor some coffees develop. What I liked most about this coffee was the acidity did not take away from the flavor. One pound of Death Wish Coffee costs $19.99 plus shipping. I think the price is a little steep, but this truly is a great brew. This coffee is for those who have the money to shell out and want a great coffee that will keep them going through the day.

When I first smelled the grounds of this coffee, the acidity was a little harsh on my nose. When brewed, the initial aroma was also quite acidic, almost coppery — almost offensive. The coffee itself had a very bright, earthy flavor, but I felt the aftertaste would stay on my tongue forever. I promptly poured this blend down the sink after trying it. One pound costs $4.56. If you are looking for cheap coffee that gets the job done, go with this one. Serious coffee drinkers beware.

Seattleʼs Best Signature Blend No. 3 The grounds for this coffee smelled divine, and the brewed liquid smelled even better. I could detect hints of chocolate and almonds as I wafted the aroma. The whiff was slightly deceiving, though. I expected a little more body and not quite as much acidity from this coffee. The aftertaste was more bitter than I expected, as well. One pound of Seattle’s Best costs $8. Seattle’s Best has surely mastered the art of good, yet affordable, coffee. It holds its own among the medium roasts.

Red Diamond Classic Blend Medium Roast The best word to describe this coffee is bland. It had a very light flavor. The only offensive part of this coffee was its lack of flavor. It had a very light body that could be pleasant with breakfast and the acidity was quite mild. Red Diamond is sold as “medium” roast, but I would put it in the “light” roast category. One pound of Red Diamond Classic Blend coffee costs $6.56. If you are new to coffee and want a brew that is easy on the palate and affordable, go with this one. But, if you are ready to jump into some real coffee, skip the Red Diamond.

Starbucks House Blend Medium The familiar brand did not disappoint. Starbucks House Blend has a pleasant and lively balance of acidity and boldness. The aftertaste was there, but it was not harsh. It has enough body to stand up to a super-sweet coffeecake, but not so bold that it would cause the casual coffee drinker to shy away. One pound of Starbucks House Blend costs $9.92. The cost makes this coffee one of the most expensive in this review. If you want an everyday, balanced coffee, go with Starbucks’ House Blend.

LIFE 3B

Jan. 15, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

REVIEW

“Selma” brings audience to tears with historic portrayal

MARI WILLIAMS 4QNM -LQ\WZ TQNM(NTWZITI VM\

“One day when the glory comes, it will be ours.” I did not cry at the end of “Selma.” I cried three times before that. And I watched tears roll down the face of my father as the credits rolled. John Legend and Common won best original song at the Golden Globes for the lyrics above. “Glory” filled the speakers as the nonviolent marchers finally walked across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, signaling a moving change. “Selma” centers around the 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery for voting rights. Audiences are taken on a behind-the-scenes journey into Martin Luther King Jr.’s, inner circle with an upclose glimpse of what his life was like at the time. From his troubles negotiating with President Lyndon B. Johnson to his tense marital struggles, director Ava DuVernay upturns countless stones. DuVernay does an impressive job moving through the workings of this part of the Civil Rights movement. There were few times when I thought, “Was that

right?” as I often do with historical films. The casting of “Selma” was able to breathe life into this film. They portrayed numerous historical figureheads with fearless grace. This included Dr. King (David Oyelowo), Lyndon B. Johnson (Tom Wilkinson), Annie Lee Cooper (Oprah Winfrey), Alabama Governor George Wallace (Tim Roth) and Malcom X (Nigel Thatch). Generally, it is incredibly easy to become engrossed in our own little worlds, propelling our lives toward the surely prosperous future. We forget the past. If people held on too tightly to the atrocities of the past they would be weighed down and riddled by grief and guilt for what we have today and what people did not have in the past. This is much of what it feels like watching “Selma.” Starting from when we see four young girls in their Sunday best die ruthlessly at the hands of explosives, up until Dr. King’s moving speech in Montgomery, there is this gnawing grief that grabs hold of the audience and never lets go. As the film hurdles on, it becomes evident just how important this film is now in 2015 and how important it will be 50 years down the line. This is not a movie people watch to try and distract themselves from life. “Selma” forces its audience to stop, take a long, discerning look around and realize this war is not over. This country still has milestones to conquer. It was odd to me that a film surrounding the past could make me brood so heavily

on the present. I do not think I can put into words just how vital it is for people of all ages to go see this film. If the price of movie ticket is too high, catch the matinee. This movie is worth more than the $8.75 it costs to see it.

It does not matter your gender or what shade your flesh is. What matters is you are human and — whether you are black, white, green or blue — this issue affects you. Take the time out of your beautiful, first world day to watch a film that can truly improve your perspective.

REVIEW

Top charting trivia game sweeps phones across globe MONDAY SANDERSON

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

Every few months a new game comes out, shaking up the App Store and stealing people’s available time. This time around it happens to be Trivia Crack. Being an avid player since September, I will admit I am one of many Trivia ‘Crackheads.’ Trivia Crack was released Oct. 26, 2013. When first released, the app was only available in Latin America. It was created by Etermax, located in Argentina. In December of 2014, not only did the game become available in 10 different languages, it also became the most downloaded game in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The game is very simple. The player can either play against a Facebook friend or someone at random. Once the game

is started, the player spins the wheel and answers a question from one of the following categories: entertainment, art, science, history, geography or sports. If the answer er is correct, the wheel is spun again. ain. If the answer is wrong, it is now the opponent’s ’s turn. If thee player lands on n the crown piece iece he or she will be allowed to choose the he game piece ce they want nt to earn. W h e n the gamee is won, three coins aree given to the player. yer. These coins can be used on a number off cheats. Addingg 15 seconds is the cheapest cheat, only costing one coin. Having the ability to skip the question is only three coins. The last two cheats both

cost five coins. One allows the player to get rid of two of the wrong answers. The second option gives the player a second chance. This means that if the th player chooses one of the wrong answers after cchoosing this cheat, then the t player ca can pick again. Only one On cheat can be chea per used question. The cheat Th has to ha be used before the be question is qu answered or before the be time rruns out. I love the lo game, but one of the biggest pproblems I have is you need nee to be connected to Wi-Fi to us use it. This is fine when I am at school, but when I go home, there is no Wi-Fi. This is extremely problematic when I am in the middle of

a game. If the player does not respond within two days, it is seen as a loss. I try to avoid this, but I like it when the other player fails to respond, especially when they were in the lead. Not only can coins be earned by winning games, but also by accomplishing achievements. Every achievement has a different level of reward, but every coin received helps. But, if the player really wants coins, he or she can easily buy them by purchasing them through the app. The game also keeps track of how the player ranks with his or her friends, how many games the player has won and lost, and the challenges they have completed. A major benefit of this game is it allows the player to review material he or she learned in school. I have come across many questions in both history and science I learned in school. It is a perfect game for review. The downside of this is when I come across a question that I should know, and I get it wrong, I tend to feel very dumb. This game is perfect for people who are competitive or like to show off their knowledge.

4B LIFE

Jan. 22, 2015 • The Flor-Ala out, using apps or using the Internet more than just organically trying to date someone or courting someone.” Wanting to protect the weak, often women, was part of the original code of chivalry. And it lasted through many centuries, Price said. A change in the chivalric code occurred in the 20th century during the shift of how women were viewed. “It’s definitely tied to women wanting equality,” she said. “I think that has caused the shift in men not following this code of conduct towards women. We have new codes of conduct.” Junior Rabun Wright said she thinks chivalry is not held at the same standard anymore. “I don’t think it’s a priority anymore for people in relationships,” she said. With changing relationships between the sexes chivalry has taken on a new form, Price said. “I don’t think the act of being courteous, helping people or fighting for the weak has died out at all,” she said. “I think now women and men can both do it.”

+01>)4:A KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM * “I think it’s camouflaged as being ‘extra’ or being ‘thirsty’,” Orr said. “When you’re doing something for a woman she’s always wondering what you’re trying to gain. You tell a young lady that she’s beautiful because she is, and you go on about your day.” The earliest we see the word used to describe what we consider chivalry today is in the 19th century, Price said. “In the 19th century there was a lot of overlap between how men were supposed to treat women,” she said. “Women were really idolized and they were supposed to be the angel of the home. That’s pretty similar to that idea of courtly love.” Junior Allison Lawrence said the cultural differences of previous generations and this one is a factor in the way society views chivalry. “I think our culture and this generation are the reason we don’t see that anymore because we didn’t grow up in that,” she said. “I see a lot more of hanging

Creative Jewelers owner Billy H ammock gives a showroom tour for Brandi L ewis, M iss UNA 2011. T he store has the largest custom and brand name jewelry selection in Northwest Alabama.

The Shoals’ Only True Custom Design Jeweler. Featuring on-site designers and state-of-the-art computer-aided design technology. choose your stone. design your masterpiece. realize your vision.

216 N. Court St., Florence, AL 35630 Mon.-Fri.: 9-5, Sat.: 10-3 256-766-7650 ÷ www.CreativeJewelersOnline.com L ook for the B ig P urple Awning in His toric Downtown F lore nc e !

Danielle Patten Member Since 2012

Listerhill

only from

in an ucation to help others ed ur yo e us ll wi u yo Tell us how tag e sure to use the hash Instagram video - mak t online or sh then complete the #listerhillscholarship ships. com/scholarrsh application at listerhill.

ol and It’s free money for scho

it’s only from Listerhill!

First place is $2,500 Second place is $1,500 Third place is $1,000

Get the most likes. Win an iPad Air.

21 y r a u r b e F 19 y r a u n Ja e latest updates.

Follow GetTheHill for th

Complete Rules & Regulations can be found at listerhill.com/scholarships

SPORTS 5B

Jan. 22, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

FOOTBALL

Couch Or Bleachers?

The Flor-Ala file photo

Linebacker Quad Freeman chases down a Western Oregon University ball carrier Oct. 4. Recent studies show many sporting events attendance numbers have dipped.

Sports attendance numbers fall ASHLEY REMKUS

6M_[ -LQ\WZ VM_[(NTWZITI VM\

What could be better than spending a Saturday in a college football stadium surrounded by screaming fans, eating barbecued ribs and sitting within a few yards of some of the best athletes in the entire nation? Some sports fans seem to think their HDTVs, comfy couches and bag of chips are better, according to recent studies. Major college football home attendance numbers in 2014 dropped to its lowest in 14 years, according to CBS Sports. “I’d rather watch the bigger games at home,” said freshman Bo Harden. “It’s easier to see what’s going on. But, when it comes to UNA games, I’d rather be there in person to experience the atmosphere.” UNA football head coach Bobby Wallace said the falling attendance does not seem to affect schools like UNA as much as schools that are regularly featured on major networks. “Even when we’re on TV, we really don’t see a drop in attendance,” Wallace said. “Our attendance can be hurt by Alabama and Auburn TV games.” Student Patrick Calloway said the televised D-I school sporting events might affect attendance at UNA games,

but he does not think people are attending the higher-profile games less than they used to. “Those stadiums are almost or completely full every time I see them,” Calloway said. “I think it really depends on what team and what conference, but the good teams don’t seem to be really suffering as far as attendance.” He contributed the steady attendance

”Iʼ

D RATHER WATCH THE BIGGER GAMES

AT HOME. ITʼS EASIER TO SEE WHATʼS

GOING ON. BUT, WHEN IT COMES TO

UNA

GAMES, IʼD RATHER BE THERE IN PERSON TO EXPERIENCE THE ATMOSPHERE.

BO HARDEN FRESHMAN to the success of D-I teams like Alabama and Auburn in recent years. Auburn Associate Athletic Director for Strategic Communications Cassie Arner said her staff recognizes attendance is falling at college games across the U.S. “It’s something we’re very aware of,” Arner said. “We’re doing a lot of things to make sure people keep coming to our

games.” She said the attendance decline has not struck at Auburn, and she suspects it is because the team has been successful in recent years. Other sports also face the threat of attendance declines, and to combat that the university tries to plan events during basketball game weekends so fans want to travel to campus. “We are trying to make sure our fans have a reason to come to Auburn,” she said. “The idea is they would have things to do throughout the whole weekend on campus.” Freshman Aja Hall said the energy at sporting events cannot be replaced by a high-quality view on TV. “You’re way more into it when you’re actually there,” Hall said. “When you’re at home, there are too many other distractions for you to have that same involvement.” College sports are not alone in the attendance decline. From 2007 to 2008, the NFL saw a 4.5 percent decline in attendance, according to research conducted by Mike Florio, a sports analyst. Florio attributed much of the decline to the economy.

Wallace agreed with Florio’s assessment, saying by the time teams reach the end of the season, fans are likely running low on cash. “During bowl season, people probably watch games on TV more than they go to them,” he said. “It gets really expensive to buy tickets for those games, and the traveling can cost a lot.” Senior Jordan Campbell said weather conditions could also be a reason people may prefer to watch the game on TV. “If it’s too cold or if it’s raining, I’m staying home,” he said. UNA volleyball player Abby Winkler said she is not a major fan of college sports, and being from a northern state, many of the sports she likes to watch are not televised in the Shoals. She, however, said she settles for catching games on TV when she is unable to attend them. “The atmosphere and energy in the gym can’t be beat,” she said. “But, watching sports on TV is definitely a close second.”

6B SPORTS SCOREBOARD

Jan. 22, 2015• The Flor-Ala

TITLE IX

Jan. 15-22 Jan. 15, 2014 Womenʼs Basketball

@ West Georgia

68-60 Loss

Jan. 15, 2014 Menʼs Basketball

@ West Georgia

92-83 Loss

Jan. 17, 2014 Womenʼs Basketball

@ UAH

80-72 Win

Jan. 17, 2014 Menʼs Basketball

@ UAH

81-72

Upcoming

Loss

Jan. 22, 2014 Womenʼs Basketball

@ West Florida

6:00 p.m.

Jan. 22, 2014 Menʼs Basketball

@ West Florida

8:00 p.m.

Jan. 23, 2014

Track

@ UAB Invitational

Birmingham Jan. 17, 2014 Womenʼs Basketball

@ Valdosta State

5:00 p.m. Jan. 17, 2014 Menʼs Basketball

@ Valdosta State

7:00 p.m.

photo courtesy Sports Information

Volleyball head coach Stephanie Radecki directs her team during a game in 2014. Radecki is one of three women head coaches at UNA. Studies show sports across the nation lack women head coaches.

Study shows lack of female head coaches KADIN POUNDERS

;\INN ?ZQ\MZ SXW]VLMZ[(]VI ML]

The issue of gender equality in America has always been a hot button issue, whether it is equal pay, equal rights or equal opportunity. The same is true in the world of sports. The number of women coaching female college athletes is at an alltime low, according to a study done by the University of Minnesota in 2013. In 1974, over 90 percent of collegiate women’s teams were coached by women. That number today is around 43 percent, according to the study. Men control about 80 percent of all head coaching jobs in D-I sports. The enaction of Title IX in 1972 allowed women more opportunities into the world of sports, playing or coaching, than ever before. However, Title IX also gave men more and more opportunities to coach both sexes.

At UNA, men hold seven of the 10 head coaching positions. The opportunities for women are there, but, according to UNA athletic director Mark Linder, the applicants are not, depending on the sport. “It seems like in (women’s soccer) it is dominated by male applicants. Even to get a female applicant to coach women’s soccer is really slim. I don’t understand the dynamics of that,” Linder said. “In women’s basketball it’s not quite as shifted toward men as it is in women’s soccer but still probably more male applicants than female.” Head volleyball coach Stephanie Radecki does not see any reason why more women do not apply for head coaching positions. “I can’t think of anything that would hinder a female to apply for a head coaching position. I am sure that there are personal reasons why a particular person might not apply for a head

coaching position, but it is hard for me to say because I am a head coach,” Radecki said. “Being a female never stopped me from applying.” Not only are female applicants for women’s sports low, but the number of female applicants for male sports is almost non-existent. Only about 2-4 percent of male sports have female head coaches, according to the same University of Minnesota report. Even at the assistant coach level, female applicants for men’s sports are fewer. “I don’t think that I’ve ever had a female apply for an assistant’s job,” said head basketball coach Bobby Champagne. “Any time I’ve had an assistant’s job open, it’s been all male applicants.” Linder said if a female applied for a men’s head coaching job, gender would not be a factor.

;MM +7)+016/ XIOM *

PROFILE

Senior forward returns, lives without regret DUSTIN POLLARD ;XWZ\[ -LQ\WZ [XWZ\[(NTWZIT VM\

Everybody has regrets, but not everybody gets the opportunity to amend those regrets. Senior Marcus Landry got the opportunity to make peace as he decided to return to the basketball team this year after leaving the program following the 2010-11 season. “Every time I saw college basketball on TV I would get so mad and just turn it off,” Landry said. “Quitting is my biggest regret, so I wanted to comeback and finish what I started here. Now I’m more mature and more of a leader to my teammates.” The forward left the team before his final season due to personal reasons, he said. Landry, now married with three children, said raising a family played a big part in getting refocused with his life. “It’s been tough because my family is 16 hours away in Hayes Center,

Nebraska, but I was willing to make the sacrifice so my family can have a better future,” he said. The 6’5” 220 pound forward is averaging 8.9 points and 8.2 rebounds per game this season. He was an AllGulf South Conference selection his junior season after putting up 12.7 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. “I think I’m right on level of where I was before I left,” Landry said. “I’m still getting better as the season goes on. We all just have to get better each and every day.” Coming back to playing basketball is no walk in the park for Landry as he says getting into playing shape is a long road. “I’m still working on it because I want to be able to play for longer minutes,” he said. “Once I get in foul trouble, I get more tired. But it’s coming along.” Coach Bobby Champagne said bringing Landry back has helped ease the transition of losing four seniors from a year ago. Editor’s note: To read the rest of this story, visit www.florala.net.

photo by KAITLIN DOUGLASS I Staff Photographer

Senior forward Marcus Landry prepares to shoot a free throw against Christian Brothers Unviersity Jan. 10. Landry came back this year after leaving following the 2010-11 season.

SPORTS 7B

Jan. 22, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

TEAM LIFE

Athletes speak on life as a redshirt freshman KADIN POUNDERS

;\INN ?ZQ\MZ SXW]VLMZ[(]VI ML]

Most freshman student-athletes coming into college were stars at their high schools. Many of them, in whatever sport it may be, were always out on the court or on the field competing and never saw the bench. In college, teams are allowed to “redshirt� players. This means that those athletes that are redshirted are allowed to be on the team, practice, and participate in all of the normal activities that a player would do except that he or she cannot play in games. At the collegiate level, studentathletes are allowed only four years of eligibility. Redshirting a student-athlete gives that player a year of practice experience without losing a year of eligibility, but an athlete can only be redshirted one time. “I was happy, honestly. Why waste a year of eligibility knowing you won’t get

+7)+016/ KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM * “We’d look at credentials,� he said. “They have to have the ability to recruit, they have to know the game, and I always look to see what their lineage is — if they’ve come from successful programs or not — because there’s something to be said about someone who has been around winning.� Some of UNA’s coaches believe there will be more women get into the men’s side, even at the head coaching level. “I don’t see any reason why there can’t be (a female head coach),� Champagne said. “I don’t think gender plays a part

to play that much,� said freshman wide receiver Liles Hillhouse. Hillhouse helped the Florence Falcons reach the third round of the playoffs his senior year. He caught 32 passes for 452 yards and one touchdown in 2013. Redshirting can take place in any sport but it is most frequently used in football where a majority of squads use as many redshirts as necessary to ensure future team success. While being redshirted can be disappointing for some players that will not get to see action their first year, there are pros to it as well. “Honestly, at first I didn’t like it all that much since I’ve never had to do that while playing sports,� said freshman linebacker Christian Davis. “But not long after that you get used to it and realize you should use it as a chance to learn all you can and take advantage of it.� As a senior at Pelham High School Davis racked up 116 tackles and one interception. There are a number of reasons why

coaches choose to redshirt players. Some student-athletes are not ready to balance the demands of school work and athletics their first year out of high school. Others are redshirted so that he or she can get bigger or stronger or learn certain team philosophies.

�

I WAS HAPPY, HONESTLY. WHY WASTE A YEAR OF ELIGIBILITY KNOWING YOU WONĘźT GET TO PLAY THAT MUCH.

LILES HILLHOUSE FRESHMAN WIDE RECEIVER “The best thing (about being redshirted) in my opinion is the chance to learn the ropes of everything and not having to balance the pressure of playing on Saturdays with school,� said Davis. “Redshirting helps you get a chance to

in it. I don’t know about in other sports, but basketball is the same game.� As for the male athletes, a female head coach may take some getting used to. “If she had everything under control and handled things like any other man would, you shouldn’t really have a problem with it,� said outfielder Brandon Pugh. “Winning is winning. If you help us win, I’m fine.� Despite the low numbers, optimism for more women in the college coaching profession is there, Linder said. “I think we’re starting to see a shift,� he said. “In this generation (female coaches) won’t be foreign to them.�

1/2 off any Sandwich with purchase of a Drink and Chips

1500 Woodward Ave. Muscle Shoals, AL 35661 256.320.5774 0òFS FYQJSFT +BO t 7BMJE .VTDMF 4IPBMT %FMJ 0OMZ

2015

step back and learn the system along with getting use to the new level of speed and agility you are playing at.� Maturing as a player and getting better as a player is important, but Hillhouse said developing a sense of belonging with their team was equally as important. “The best thing was meeting everyone on the team,� he said. “The group of guys I met this past season are probably the greatest group of guys I’ve ever met.� Davis said although not getting to play is tough he realizes his time to play will come. “Along the way you’re learning from the older guys different things about the game,� he said. Medical redshirts are also available for players who have played in fewer than 30 percent of the teams competitions and none after midpoint of season. Former Houston Cougars quarterback Case Keenum was granted a sixth-year of eligibility after tearing his ACL in 2010.

8B EXTRA

Jan. 22, 2015 • The Flor-Ala

SOCIAL MEDIA OF THE WEEK

Victoria Roose

Alexis x Aday d y

Lauren Blue l

Holloway y

Meredith Hamner

Jovonne Baker k

Ruby y Villalobos

K y Kayla Land

Rachel Wammack k

Alyssa ly Baldwin ld

Miss UNA 2015 “Miss UNA’s Winter Wonderland” January 24, 2015 Norton Auditorium

Jocelyn ly Barns

Mary y Katherine h

7:00pm Doors Open at 6:00pm Tickets: Online at www.una.edu/boxoffice $12 At the Door: $15 Free to Students with a Mane Card from the Office of Student Engagement Sponsored by

Sarai Ingle gl

Whitney y Brown

McKell Ferguson g

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.