March 8

T-Pain at Spring Concert p. 2 Feature: SGA president elect p. 4 Arcade system gives access to classics p. 9 Defensive coordinator retires p. 10 Importance of ďŹ ne arts p. 13 March 8, 2018 Vol. 86, Issue 12

2 NEWS

T-Pain journeys to Flowers Hall CIERA GOLLIVER News Editor news@florala.net Despite homework and exams, many students will take a night off March 15 to attend the Spring Concert.

The headliner for the Spring Concert is hip-hop artist T-Pain. Most people know him for songs such as “Buy you a Drink,” “Bartender” and “I’m in Love with a Stripper.”

The concert will be at 8 p.m. with

doors opening at 7 p.m. in Flowers Hall.

Tickets are free to students and $40 for the public. Students can pick up tickets in the Student Engagement Center. All tickets are general admission.

With so many options to choose from, Live Acts Chairman Brittany Knight said it was difficult to decide on a headliner.

“Our Live Acts committee spent a lot of time debating on who the students wanted to see this year for Spring

Concert,” Knight said. “Between the (vastly) different genres that are spread out across our campus, it’s almost impossible to pinpoint an artist that will reach students across the whole spectrum.”

Knight said one of the committee’s goals was to find a headliner who would put on a great live show.

“We spent countless hours reviewing live performances of artists that we were considering, which is how we came to T-Pain,” Knight said. “T-Pain is not only a world renowned artist known for popularizing the use of auto tune, but he’s a class a c t with a

great voice and a large category of popular songs.”

Junior Evie Liles said she was excited when she found out T-Pain was coming to UNA because his music reminds her of childhood.

“I listened to him when I was 11 (years old), so it will be really cool to listen to him 10 years later,” Liles said.

Liles said even though T-Pain was more active in his earlier years as a musician, he still has a lot to offer listeners because of his ability to appeal to various generations.

“I remember my fifth grade teacher’s favorite song was “Low,” which has T-Pain and Flo Rida in it,” Liles said. “It’s crazy that I still listen to him.”

Knight said she hopes T-Pain will appeal to a variety of people because of his varying style of music as he progressed as an artist.

Freshman Nick Carney said he did not expect to see T-Pain as the headliner for the Spring Concert because he has not been as active in recent years.

“Before I saw him on ‘America’s Best Dance Crew,’ I honestly can’t remember the last time I heard a song of his or saw him on the news,” Carney said.

“He hasn’t had a hit song in a while. It will be interesting to see how the concert goes.”

The opening act will be A1, a rapper and producer from Kansas City, Missouri.

A1 is best known for songs like “Be the First to Believe,” “Don’t Wanna Lose You Again” and “In Love and I Hate It.” He has also collaborated with multiple artists, such as R&B artist Chris Brown on songs like “Party,” “Confidence” and “Roses.”

Knight said she is proud of the decision her committee made.

“We hope to see a wide range of students coming to Spring Concert this year,” Knight said. “The feedback we’re getting so far has been fantastic, and we’re stoked to host a great show.”

Courtesy of RCA Records

NEWS 3

Rain wreaks havoc on campus buildings CIERA GOLLIVER News Editor news@florala.net

CIERA GOLLIVER | News Editor

Two weeks worth of rain left sevaral areas of campus with rain damage. This includes the Milliatary Veterans Alliance offices, the Career Center, a women’s bathroom in the Guillott University Center and the Student Recreation center.

As the weather changes, mother nature leaves her mark on campus.

Rain over the past few weeks has damaged multiple parts of campus, including three places in the Guillot University Center and an area of the Student Recreation Center.

The damage in the GUC includes the Military Veteran Alliance offices, the upstairs women’s bathroom and the career center, said Executive Director of Student Affairs Auxilary Programs Bret Jennings.

Jennings said he made the purchase order to repair the roof two weeks ago, but the continual rain meant workers could not repair it until everything dried.

“As soon as (the roof) dries out, and it’s long enough to get us going, we’re ready,” Jennings said.

He said the roof did not have much structural damage, but many of the ceiling tiles need replacing.

Jennings said leaks are not uncommon because the GUC has a flat roof.

He said the damage to the roof hurts the MVA office because of the number of people who visit the area and the events they hold.

Sophomore Harley Miller said a large area in the ceiling is exposed because of tile damage.

He said he is concerned about the number of areas the rain is damaging.

“What is going to happen if this goes on for too long?” Miller said. “I’m sure mold and mildew are already starting to set in.”

Since the leaks began, Jennings said workers have moved computers to avoid water damage, extracted water from the carpet, covered the area with plastic and set out buckets to catch water.

“It’s embarrassing and it’s awful that people have to work in there,” Jennings said. “We want to say that it’s not fair, but at the same time, we are doing everything we can do.”

Jennings said the damages in the SRC caused cancellations in intramural games. Workers repaired areas of the SRC roof a year ago after leaks, but different parts of the roof began leaking.

The building has had problems with leaks since it opened in 2004, said James Eubanks, director of the SRC, in a 2017 Flor-Ala article.

“We all want it fixed tomorrow, and we know it affects our students,” Jennings said. “I wish we could do more, but at the same time it is very costly.”

Jennings said he estimates a new roof would cost around $300,000-400,000.

He said the university recently purchased an infrared scanner which they plan to use to find areas with moisture. He said he hopes this will help with future problems.

Jennings said the university is taking care of the problem, and he would like to thank those who these damages affect for their patience.

“ CIERA GOLLIVER | News Editor

Sophomore Harley Miller works to cover furniture in the MVA office with plastic. Since the leaks began, Executive Director of Student Affairs Auxillary Programs Bret Jennings said workers moved computers to avoid water damage, extracted water from the carpet, covered furniture in plastic and set out buckets to catch water.

It’s embarrassing and it’s awful that people have to work in there.

We want to say that it’s not fair, but at the same time, we are doing everything we can do.

Bret Jennings | Executive Director of Student Affairs Auxilary Programs DYLAN BAKER | Graphic Designer

4 NEWS

Courtesy of Student Government Association

Chase Holcombe (left) attended Gov. Kay Ivey’s proclamation of College Colors Day in August 2017. Holcombe currently serves as the Student Government Association Chief of Staff.

SGA president elect tells his story CODY CAMPBELL Associate News Editor news@florala.net Junior Chase Holcombe was sitting in church when he received the news he would be the 2018-19 Student Government Association president.

Holcombe said he could not wait to know if he had won or not.

“I was very excited to receive the news,” he said. “I usually don’t look at my phone during the service, but I had to take a peek to see the heavily anticipated results.”

Holcombe said being SGA president means he has an opportunity to help students succeed.

“To me, this position is all about service,” he said. “At the end of the day, it’s all about the students. I am grateful for this opportunity to serve and would like to do whatever I can to continue making UNA more and more excellent.”

Current SGA president Hugo Dante said Holcombe has been an exceptional leader from the moment he stepped on campus.

“Chase is one of the most honest and intelligent people I have ever met,” Dante said. “He thinks clearly, humbly and passionately about SGA and the community. He is an excellent friend and will be an ever better SGA president.”

Holcombe said he plans to build off of the success SGA has had in recent years and make change where it is needed.

“I’ve served in SGA under President (Sarah) Green and President (Hugo) Dante,” he said. “I’ve seen things in both administrations that have worked exceptionally well and should be

continued such as the RSO Presidents Cabinet and the live streaming of the meetings. I do not think we need to reinvent the wheel.”

He said he has experience both inside and outside of SGA. Holcombe serves as the current SGA Chief of Staff and served as the Vice President of the Freshman Forum Branch last year. He was also the president of the Alabama Student Council Association his senior year of high school.

“I certainly think that my experience in student government both

at and apart from UNA provides great experience as a leader,” he said. “In addition to this, my time in LaGrange Society, my experience in working on various political campaigns, my work as a counselor at Alabama Boys State and my time working for Jake’s Fireworks have given me quality leadership experience.”

Holcombe’s girlfriend, senior Brooke Maupin, said Holcombe is one of the most genuine people she knows.

“He has such a motivation for productive change and student

involvement both on campus and in the Shoals area,” she said. “I feel like as a leader, Chase strives to make sure all students know that their input is valued and welcomed in SGA.” Holcombe’s best friend, sophomore Sam Mashburn, said they have been best friends since the fourth grade.

“He’s an incredibly smart guy whose brain is only match by his work ethic,” Mashburn said. “He’s always sought out ways to serve his fellow students, and I’m really excited to see how well he does in this new opportunity.”

Courtesy of Chase Holcombe

Sophomore Chase Holcombe campaigns to a group of students. Holcombe won the election for Student Government Association president.

NEWS 5

Results are in for 2018-19 SGA elections CODY CAMPBELL Associate News Editor news@florala.net

Every year, hundreds of students vote to determine the next year’s Student Government Association executive branch.

This year, over 1,000 students voted in the opening elections.

With a total of 636 votes to sophomore Jessie Harbuck’s 477, sophomore Chase Holcombe will be next year’s SGA president.

“I look forward to serving the students at UNA in the capacity as president this upcoming year to the best of my ability,” Holcombe said. “I am excited to get to work.”

Junior Blake Polson will be next year’s Vice President of Senate with 804 votes to junior Cody Titus’ 281.

“I am so anxious to get started and cannot wait to work with the upcoming SGA executive council, students, faculty and staff,” Polson said.

The Vice President of the University Program Council will be junior Becca Bush as she ran unopposed in the election.

SGA held a special election for the secretary and treasurer positions.

SGA special elections polls closed Feb. 28 with nearly 400 students participating in the vote.

Freshman Tate Gooch won the treasurer position with 293 votes to Braden Gunn’s 97.

The new SGA secretary will be freshman Anne Herston with 228 votes

CIERA GOLLIVER | News Editor

Juniors Becca Bush and Blake Polson work in their positions and Pro-Tempores of University Program Council and Senate to plan student events. Bush will be the 2018-19 vice president of UPC, and Polson will be vice president of Senate. to Linden White’s 104 and Harbuck’s 71.

The Officer Transition Dinner will be April 11.

Student senate discusses school safety CODY CAMPBELL Associate News Editor news@florala.net The Student Government Association considered many options for increasing security on campus in their weekly meeting March 1.

The Student Senate explored several options, such as hiring new staff members to operate as security personnel, offering firearm training to current faculty and staff and requiring mandatory educational literature on campus safety on all syllabi.

Graduate student and senator Madeleine Frankfort suggested a survey would be a good way to hear what students have to say about campus safety.

“While we are representing the student body with our voices in senate, I think it’s important to give (the students) time to give us specific

feedback,” she said. “(Campus safety) needs to be addressed, but providing that outlet for all students to participate in a survey and give us insight into their experiences would be beneficial.”

After much debate, the senate created a specialized committee for campus safety with junior Cody Titus leading the group.

Titus said senate is interested in protecting the students in any way it can.

“In light of recent events, I think it is a really good idea for the senate to get some headway on how we could better the safety of every student, faculty and staff member, and the campus as a whole,” he said.

Titus said the first step of the committee will be to gather the appropriate data to present to senate so it can make informed decisions on how to better ensure the safety of the campus.

6 NEWS

President donates books to local schools CIERA GOLLIVER News Editor news@florala.net Some may think UNA President Kenneth Kitts spends his days focused only on UNA, but he does more with the community than students may realize.

President Kitts and his wife, Dena Kitts, visited local third graders Feb. 22 to deliver copies of “Looking for Leo,” according to a UNA press release.

Advancement Volunteer Macon Jones approached President Kitts about some “Looking for Leo” books in Rogers Hall.

President Kitts said he wanted to use these books as an opportunity to promote literacy in the community and introduce local children to the UNA campus.

Director of University Communications and Marketing Bryan Rachal said there were more books of “Looking for Leo” in Rogers Hall than officials originally thought.

Because of this, the idea turned from bringing the book to some third grade classes to bringing them to all local public third grade classrooms.

Rachal said when Dena Kitts heard the idea of bringing books to local elementary schools, she thought it would be a good idea to visit some classes and read the book along with the students.

This book gives readers a tour of campus while telling the story of the UNA

mascots, Leo III and Una. Two UNA alum created the book, author Dalen Keys and illustrator Walt Vandiver.

The university unveiled “Looking for Leo” April 20, 2012, according to an April 2012 UNA press release.

Freshman Alex Phillips said a book about the UNA mascots is something everyone in the community should support.

“I notice that over the weekends a lot of kids come to visit the lions,” Phillips said. “It would teach the kids about the lions and the rich UNA history. It would be a great educational experience for the children.”

President Kitts read to third grade classes at several schools, including Weeden Elementary, Underwood Elementary and McBride Elementary.

“A love of reading is key to a student’s success,” President Kitts said. “UNA initiated this literacy project as a way to contribute to their reading journeys.”

Other UNA representatives brought the book to other local elementary schools.

This included every public elementary school in Lauderdale and Colbert County.

This is the first time the president’s office has delivered books and read to local schools.

Freshman Christian Flenor said it is good to see the president involved with local schools because of the message it

sends about the university.

“It shows that UNA cares about kids,” Flenor said. “Distributing books is a great idea.”

All proceeds from the book go toward supporting Leo III, Una and the George H. Carroll Lion Habitat.

The book is available to order online at the UNA bookstore for $10.

Courtesy of University of North Alabama

President Kenneth Kitts and his wife, Dena Kitts, read to local third grade classes. They visited local schools, including Weeden Elementary, Underwood Elementary and McBride Elementary.

DYLAN BAKER | Graphic Designer

Courtesy of University of North Alabama

President Kitts and his wife visited local third graders Feb. 22 to deliver copies of the book “Looking for Leo.” This is book introduces kids to the UNA lions, Leo III and Una, while giving a tour around campus.

LIFE 7

Services provide support to students with disabilities TYLER HARGETT Life Editor life@florala.net UNA has received recognition for its campus diversity for the past two years, with students of different race, culture and ethnicity making up campus life.

One of the minorities on campus are students with psychological, physical or learning disabilities.

However, these disabilities do not mean they have to have a different college experience than everyone else.

With the help of Disability Support Services, students on campus not only receive accommodations, but also encouragement to show they stand with others as equals on campus.

“It is our goal to ensure students with disabilities have equal opportunity to achieve their academic goals while maintaining the integrity of UNA’s academic program requirements,” said the Disability Support Services’ mission statement.

The office, located across from the Lion’s Den Game Room in the Guillot University Center, offers students access to several types of aid, including a reserved testing area, study skills sessions, sign language interpreters and accessibility assistance for places on campus.

Technological aids are also available for student use, including downloadable text readers, Job Access with Speech software and Echo Smartpens.

Madeleine Frankford, Title IX graduate assistant coordinator, said the center’s staff members are always happy to answer questions about the services they offer.

Director Jeremy Martin said accommodations given to students do not provide unfair advantages, but, instead, help them be on the same level as other students.

“It gives them the same opportunity as any other student here at UNA,” he said. “It eliminates barriers and creates access to the learning environment for them.”

Frankford said students can feel empowered by reaching out the center for assistance.

“Cultivating an inclusive campus is imperative for student success,” she said. “A campus that welcomes diversity sets the tone for universitywide acceptance and respect.”

Martin said his ultimate goal is for UNA to be completely accessible to all students.

This year, the office is adding to its list of available programs.

Martin said a series of self-advocacy workshops is planned for this semester to help students communicate their needs with future employers.

“Whether students have a disability or not, national studies show that students out of high school going to college are not the best self-advocates for themselves,” he said. “Once they leave here, we need to make sure that

CALEB COLE| Staff Photographer

A student reads using Braille at Disability Support Services. Located across from the Lion’s Den Game Room, the center offers assistance to students with learning, physical and psychological disabilities through technology, counseling and accommodations. they’re able to articulate to their employers, ‘Hey, I need this accommodation to be provided access to the environment that I’m working in.’”

The office is also offering employee recruitment programs for disabled students to utilize.

“I’ve sent people to NASA, different Fortune 500 companies and different military bases around the U.S.,” Martin said.

He said students with a disability coming to UNA should not assume they will automatically receive accommodations, but first need to register with Disability Support Services “There’s a ton of individuals with invisible disabilities so that you would never know that person has a disability unless they disclose that information to you,” he said.

Martin said he recommends signing up before coming to campus to have accommodations accessible for when they arrive to start classes.

He said students should not let disabilities make them feel different from others on campus, as everyone has different organizations and extracurricular events available to them.

“Take disability out of the picture,” he said. “College is a big transition for any student, and there’s tons of resources on college campuses to help with students fitting in or students finding their niche.”

To contact Disability Support Services, call 256-765-4214 or email dss@una.edu.

8 LIFE Uncovered secrets on arts, sciences dean TYLER HARGETT Life Editor life@florala.net When she is not busy leading 19 departments, Carmen Burkhalter, chair of the College of Arts and Sciences, is involved in chestnut-related politics and making jelly.

Here are some interesting facts about Burkhalter.

1. She spends her summers making homemade jellies.

Burkhalter enjoys making different jellies, including strawberry, blackberry and plum.

However, instead of buying fruit at the supermarket, she looks for orchards that allow local picking.

Burkhalter said freshly picked fruit tastes sweeter than those bought in stores.

She said she prefers to pick fruit on rainy days.

“If it’s raining, (the fruit) is generally soaking up a lot of the water, and it’s a lot plumper,” Burkhalter said. “I’ve been known to be (outside) in a raincoat and a rainhat, just picking fruit.”

She said she makes fruit picking a family activity by bringing her husband and son with her to orchards “It’s a nice process to get in touch with nature and have a real understanding of where the fruit comes from,” she said.

2. She is politically involved with the American Chestnut Foundation.

Burkhalter said the foundation is striving to bring back the American chestnut trees lost in the 20th century.

“Over about a 50-year period, America lost 4 billion of these trees,” she said.

“These trees (were) about 60 percent of the canopy of the Appalachian mountain range.”

Burkhalter served as president of Alabama’s chapter for one year.

She said some considered the trees the redwoods of the east coast for their size, and their resistance to water made them suitable for building.

“We need to resurrect the American Chestnut tree because not only is it good wood, (but) it’s a great food source for wildlife, (and) it has protein, all vitamins and minerals and fiber in it,” she said.

3. Her two favorite types of music are beach and old country.

Burkhalter said she is unsure why she enjoys these types of music the most, but they put her in a happy mood when she listens to them.

“Most of my friends in my age group are like ’What? Why are you listening to that?’” she said. “It (just) makes me happy.”

To read more about her favorite beach music and country artists, visit florala.net.

Courtesy of Stephanie Holman and Alison Turner

Junior Stephanie Holman’s play “Three Margarets and a Grace” will premiere at Lexington’s Family Theatre April 13 and 14. This marks Holman’s third directorial feature in her 18-year theater career and her first to premiere in Alabama.

Student theater director debuts third play TYLER HARGETT Life Editor life@florala.net Creating a play is a dream come true. Directing three is a career made.

Junior Stephanie Holman’s newest play, “Three Margarets and a Grace,” tells the comedic, yet touching, story of an old woman’s journey to heaven.

The show marks Holman’s third directorial work in her 18-year involvement with theater, as well as her first to premiere in Alabama.

Holman will portray Grace, the main character, who died but must complete a job on Earth before she can get into heaven. Going into a nursing home, she meets three old women, each named Margaret. All the while, an angel is giving her encouragement to complete her goal without telling her the exact task.

“It’s a comedy, but it has a good story (and) good moral to it,” Holman said. “It (also) has a serious side, which usually comedy does.”

The play will premiere at Lexington’s Family Theatre April 13 and 14 at 7 p.m.

Vocal performance alumnus William Wade said choosing to premiere the show in Lexington is a good way to represent the Shoals’ artistic legacy.

“There’s a lot of bright history in the Shoals when it comes to the fine arts, and she will do nothing but make

it even brighter,” he said.

Holman began writing the play in 2012. She said the idea came from her mother Grace’s time in a retirement home. When she went to visit her one day, she found her sitting at a table with three women, each named Margaret.

“Stephanie knows how to make the story of ‘Three Margarets and a Grace’ come alive, as it’s so funny and realistic,” said Kim Glover, Lexington Family Theatre co-founder and owner.

“My hat is off to Stephanie, and we are honored to have a fun Holman play as our inaugural play in our Family Theatre.”

Holman first got involved in the field in 2000 when she helped her daughter produce a play, “Freedom Song.”

She said she found her love for writing plays after visiting the Statue of Liberty on a family trip. After receiving inspiration for a musical, she eventually made her 2003 directorial

“

debut “Bartholdi’s Lady,” a musical focusing on the creation of the statue.

“I’ve always been an artist since I was a kid, but, when (playwriting) came into my life, it was more of a passion,” she said. “When I discovered writing, art took a backseat.”

Her second production was “Lady Bluebeard,” a black comedy dinner theater show that told the story of reallife serial killer, Belle Gunness.

Besides playwriting, Holman has also authored four children’s books, one of which centers around the Jersey Devil, a mythical creature in New Jersey. She is currently planning a stage adaptation.

Tickets for “Three Margarets and a Grace” are available for $10 by calling 208-539-3301 or visiting the UNA Bookstore, Florence/Lauderdale Visitor’s Center and Studio 23.

Refreshments will be available for purchase after the show.

I’ve always been an artist since I was a kid, but, when (playwriting) came into my life, it was more of a passion.

Stephanie Holman | Junior

LIFE 9 Tournament brings attention to arcade machine

Graphic Designer| DAVID J. SAN MIGUEL

TYLER HARGETT Life Editor life@florala.net The Lion’s Den Game Room offers various video games for PlayStation, Xbox and Wii U, giving students the chance to unwind between classes.

However, since last summer, it has allowed students to step back in time to the older forms of video gaming.

With the recent installation of an X-Arcade system, gamers have access to 250 classic titles, such as Street Fighter, Pac-Man and Sonic the Hedgehog.

“It’s cool that we have multiple forms of electronic entertainment,” said sophomore Harley Miller. “The arcade machine is a classic that everyone appreciates.”

Kevin Jacques, director of university center operations and event management, said the system’s collection spans multiple gaming companies, including Sega, Capcom,

Midway, Tecmo and Taito.

“All of these games, in a system that takes up a small footprint while giving the gamer the choice to play a large variety of games, is what attracted us to it.”

To utilize the new system, the game room hosted a Pac-Man tournament through February. Sophomore Sam Thigpen won with just over 20,000 points, spending around five hours in total participation.

He said he did not go very far into the game, but instead focused on making the most out of each level.

“I only went to the fourth level, but I capitalized on every power pellet to eat as many ghosts as possible for more points,” he said.

For winning the tournament, Thigpen received a thermal rug labeled “Lion’s Den Game Room Champion.”

He said anyone interested in trying the game can take advantage of glitches in the coding to get far in the

game, but it will take practice.

“There are some spots on the level that, if you stop on them in the right way, the ghost won’t be able to see you. Then, at the right moment, you make your move to get more pellets.”

Thigpen, who collects retro video games, said he originally grew up playing the companion game Ms. PacMan before trying out a port of PacMan. “I put at least 100 hours into that game,” he said.

Thigpen said despite getting the most points in the tournament, he does not have the highest score on the Pac-Man game and plans on trying to beat it.

He said the X-Arcade system is a great way to provide students with new challenges.

“I think it is a wonderful addition that exposes people who may have not played retro games before to the games of the past,” Thigpen said. “Back then, games were about challenge and style that stood out. These days, it’s too watered down.”

Jacques said the game room would like to host more future tournaments.

“If there are any recommendations on which game to play, let us know, and we will look into it,” he said.

CLASSIC GAMES AVAILABLE

TYLER HARGETT | Life Editor

Sophomore Charles Lieb starts a game of Pac-Man on the Lion’s Den Game Room’s X-Arcade system. A recent Pac-Man tournament brought attention to the machine, which gives students free access to 250 retro video games.

For students with free time between classes, it can be good to take time and relax. The X-Arcade system offers access to 250 classic arcade titles, giving several options for gamers to choose from.

Courtesy of Amazon

‘Versace’ kills as crime drama’s second season TYLER HARGETT Life Editor life@florala.net While many people have kept up with producers Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk’s series “American Horror Story,” some have also taken notice of their other anthology show, “American Crime Story.”

Like “Horror Story,” each season of “Crime Story” is different from the last, with its own story, setting and characters.

However, while “Horror Story” contains fictional tales that try to frighten audiences, “Crime Story” shines light on historical crime cases.

When the first season, “The People vs. O.J. Simpson,” debuted Feb. 2, 2016, with its great acting and storytelling, it set the bar high for seasons to come.

While I had to wait almost two years for the second season, I am glad I did not lose interest in the show, as its next case has not only gotten me reinvested in the series, but also keeps me eager for future seasons.

“The Assassination of Gianni Versace” follows not only the death of the world-famous fashion designer, but also takes a peek into the mind of Versace’s murderer, Andrew Cunanan.

Before the story even begins, however, the show gave me an incredible look inside Versace’s Miami home. If it turns out the show was filmed inside his actual house, it would not surprise me, as the scenery is beautiful and befitting of a rich man.

Last season, despite its stellar cast, I did not enjoy Cuba Gooding Jr.’s portrayal of alleged serial killer O.J. Simpson. His voice was not as deep as Simpson’s, nor was he tough enough to match the former football player’s demeanor.

With actor Édgar Ramírez’s take on Versace, I have seen no issues with his acting. In this role, I genuinely see him as a famous designer with his own personal struggles.

However, the real marvel of this season is actor Darren Criss’ Cunanan.

One minute he is lying about his relationship with Versace, and the next he is duct taping the head of an older rich man for money.

To read more about Criss’ portrayal of Cunanan, visit florala.net.

10 SPORTS Scoreboard Football team bids farewell to coordinator

Feb. 24 - March 10

Softball

Feb. 26 vs. West Florida Win, 7-0 March 3 vs. Lee Win, 13-5 March 4 vs. Lee Win, 8-0 March 6 vs. Miles March 10 vs. Shorter

Baseball Feb. 26 vs. West Florida Win, 4-2 Feb. 27 vs. Union Win, 8-7 March 3 vs. Lee Win, 3-0 March 4 vs. Lee Loss, 7-8 March 6 vs. Trevecca Nazarene March 10 vs. Shorter

Men’s Tennis Feb. 24 vs. Valdosta St. Loss, 0-9 March 2 vs. AuburnMontgomery Loss, 4-5 March 4 vs. Ms. College Win, 5-4 Games continued at roarlions.com

Courtesy of Sports Information

New North Alabama defensive coordinator Brett Borden preparing pregame drills during his tenure as defensive line coach for the Lions 2012-13. He resigned at the end of February.

HUNTER ANDERSON Associate Sports Editor sports@Florala.net The North Alabama football team said goodbye to the defensive coordinator, Bret Borden.

“It was such a tough decision for me because coaching is my passion,” Borden said in a Times Daily article. “It is something I have been around all my life with my dad being a coach. Being a coach is all I have ever wanted to be, but at this point in my life this is what I need to do.”

Borden accepted a position working for Stryker, a company which focuses on medical devices and equipment.

The Lions hired Steadman Campbell to fill the defensive coordinator position.

Previously an offensive coordinator, his change was announced on March 2. Ryan Aplin will replace Campbell as offensive coordinator.

“That’s the way this football coaching business is like,” said head coach Chris Willis. “Coaches come and go, especially in our level of play. That’s the way it goes, there’s always a better job.”

The exact details of Borden’s new career are vague, but Willis said the coaching staff would have been disappointed if Borden turned the job offer down.

“He’s probably (going to) be set for life,” Willis. “It’s not one of those positions where he’s (going to) get laid off anytime soon. He’s (going to) work there as long as he wants to work there. We’d have all been sick to our stomachs if he turned it down.”

Willis said people should not feel Borden accepted the job for financial success.

“Bret is such a genuine good guy,” Willis said. “He is not chasing the dollar. I

know it sounds crazy cause he just left for a place that pays a lot, but he started from the ground up. His dad’s an educator, coach, and Bret’s one of those guys like: if his house is being built he wants to be over there laying the cement even though someone else is contracted to do it,” Willis

said.

The effects of having a change in staff are still unclear. Coach Willis’s experience as a defensive coordinator should make the transition less difficult.

To read more about the transition, visit florala.net.

SPORTS 11 Player Spotlight Height: 6-1 Class: Senior Hometown: Tenerife, Spain Courtesy of Sports Information

Senior Miguel Garcia battles against Valdosta State Feb. 24. Gulf South Conference officials named senior Miguel Garcia player of the week Feb. 21.

Senior makes tennis program history with award HARLEY DUNCAN Associate News Editor news@florala.net Gulf South Conference officials named senior Miguel Garcia player of the week Feb. 21. Garcia’s performance is the first to be awarded the honor for the UNA tennis program.

Garcia has fought for the Lions since 2015, where he played singles and doubles as a true freshman.

The senior from Spain led UNA’s team with a three-set victory over West Florida in the No. 1 singles matchup (6-2, 4-6, 6-4) and had a comeback win with his partner, Senior Austin Racine, in the No. 1 doubles match (8-6).

“I felt very satisfied that all of my hard work is paying off,” Garcia said.

Garcia said he expects to continue competing at a high level against No. 1 players.

The standout senior was selected to the second all-conference team his sophomore and junior, but this season Garcia said he hopes to be selected first team all-conference and rank in the Division II top 50 players at the end of the season.

“In the last two years, I was selected to the second team,” he said.

“With this being my senior year, it would be really nice to earn first team honors. The level of competition is very equal, so it will be difficult to do.”

Winning a national championship is typically the goal at the beginning of every season, yet Garcia said his primary focus is not currently on that.

Last year, the Lions competed in regional play. Garcia said they would like to be in the same position again this year.

“It would be very hard to win a national championship because of the level competition,” he said. “I think we can get back to regionals this year, then we can think about moving forward from there.”

Garcia said the team doubles

competition gives him another opportunity to reach his goals.

Now, Garcia said he and Racine are working on grooming their chemistry as teammates on the court.

“We are both seniors, so we are giving everything we have,” Garcia said. “It is just important that we work hard on figuring out how we best play with each other.”

Upon Garcia’s selection as player of the week, he said his teammates and coaches were excited for him.

“I am very proud of Miguel on being named Player of the Week,” said head coach Brice Bishop. “What a great honor, especially in the GSC. The GSC is so tough, and to win this award is very fitting for Miguel. He is definitely playing his best tennis.”

PLAYER STATS #1 in Sinlges: defeated LeCoutre (West Florida) 6-2, 4-6, 6-4 #1 in Doubles: defeated Bojadjiev/ LeCoutre (West Florida) 8-6

12 SPORTS MACIE PIGG Softball Beat Writer mpigg1@una.edu

Wallace State transfer Brittany Ledbetter began her pitching career on the North Alabama softball team with a 3-1 record.

The junior transferred to UNA after helping Wallace State win two ACCC State Championships.

“Brittany is a great athlete,” said head softball coach Ashely Cozart. “At her junior college, she hit and pitched.

With us, she just pitches, but she is a very good athlete.”

Ledbetter is from Vance and graduated from Tuscaloosa Academy.

Her journey with softball began when she was six-years-old. Her older sister, Lindsey Watkins, played softball and pitched, as well.

“Of course watching (my sister) play made me want to play and try to be better than her at everything,”

“

Ledbetter said. “We always had a healthy competition between each other.”

Cozart said Ledbetter’s strongest quality is her spin on the ball and ability to mix speeds.

“What stands out about Britt is her mentality and how mature she is,” Cozart said. “She has a lot of confidence and is very mature and a leader for our team. She’s always going to battle on the mound for us.”

Ledbetter said UNA was a good fit for her after playing at Wallace State.

“On my visit here, I really enjoyed being around the coaches, and the campus was beautiful,” Ledbetter said. “And Florence is a small town, and that’s something that I really enjoy because I’m from a small town as well.”

Ledbetter is now a business major, and she said she hopes to one day own her own hair salon and possibly become a real-estate agent.

Ledbetter said her journey with

She has a lot of confidence and is very mature and a leader for our team. She’s always going to battle on the mound for us.

Ashley Cozart | Head Softball Coach

softball has not been easy. Her childhood home burned down during her sophomore year at Wallace. In late October, Ledbetter had to undergo a second knee surgery to repair a torn meniscus. Then, her father died after battling cancer for almost eight years Nov. 10, 2017.

“My dad was always my biggest fan,” Ledbetter said. “I’d say the hardest thing now is not having him to hug after each game.”

Ledbetter said she knows her father is still watching over her and cheering her on while she plays softball.

“A lot of our players look to Brittany as a leader, and she is great at helping our pitching staff when they need it,” Cozart said. “She has been through a lot the last year as she lost her dad to cancer. So, she is playing these last two years for him and I know he will be so proud of her, as am I.” During her freshman year at Wallace State, Ledbetter got a tattoo on her left wrist of her dad’s handwriting saying, “I Love You.” “I got it on my left wrist so every time I look down at my glove or pitching sign, I can see it,” Ledbetter said. “He was always the one to push me to do my best at everything that I did. So now I play for him every single day.”

Ledbetter said she credits softball with helping her through the difficult times and keeping her going.

“Softball has always been like my saving grace,” Ledbetter said. “I could have had the worst day, but as soon as I step on the field, it’s like all of my problems just go away, which, I am more than grateful for.”

Courtesy of Sports Information

Junior Brittany Ledbetter pitches against Lee University in a game March 4. “A lot of our players look to Brittany as a leader, and she is great at helping our pitching staff when they need it,” said head softball coach Ashley Cozart.

DAVID J. SAN MIGUEL | Graphic Designer

Softball pitcher serves as ʻstrongʼ leader

OPINION 13 Entertainment abounds in campus art programs

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MONDAY SANDERSON MANAGING EDITOR HANNAH ZIMMER NEWS EDITOR CIERA GOLLIVER ASSOCIATE NEWS EDITORS HARLEY DUNCAN CODY CAMPBELL LIFE EDITOR TYLER HARGETT ASSOCIATE LIFE EDITOR KARAH WILSON ASSOCIATE SPORTS EDITOR HUNTER ANDERSON SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR NATALIE BEE BUSINESS MANAGER KARA DUCKETT ASSOCIATE BUSINESS MANAGER DIANE PEEPLES

TYLER HARGETT Life Editor life@florala.net If people are honest, they would admit plays, operas and symphonies are not as popular as they once were.

With a range of streaming sites, video games, concerts and year-round blockbusters available, entertainmenthungry audiences have no shortage of platforms to choose from.

However, because of this, they sometimes forget about the artistic shows that pre-dated them all, such as Shakespeare’s revolutionary playwriting, Mozart’s much-covered “The Marriage of Figaro” and Beethoven’s multiple

symphonies.

While these artists are long gone, their work and musical influence remains and has inspired many artists to grab a baton, raise their voice or act in a show in front of audiences worldwide.

UNA’s College of Arts and Sciences hosts multiple shows every semester through its theatre and music departments, but they do not always sell out.

Before I went to last year’s summer production of “The Mountaintop,” I had never experienced the theatre department’s works. After the show ended, I wanted more.

The acting, set design and story drew me in and entertained me more than many movies I have watched.

When I attended UNA’s Opera/ Musical Theatre’s production of “Little Women” in November, I was treated to more great characters and singing.

UNA has also hosted outside performing groups in the past, such as the New York-based Aquila Theatre Company, who have annually performed a professional work of Shakespeare since 2001.

The best part of all these shows is they only cost students $5 per ticket.

Comparing this to prices paid for movie tickets (not including the purchase of popcorn and drinks), one can see the

value in attending these shows.

There has been a decline in moviegoers in recent years. Six in 10 people say they rarely ever go to the movies, according to Business Time, likely due to people using streaming services instead.

However, while watching shows and movies on Netflix or Hulu are convenient (and can easily take up an entire weekend if one is not careful), going to see actors perform a live show is different in the best way.

Not only can people get an up-close view of drama, romance, action or slapstick, but they can also sometimes better identify with the characters or immerse themselves deeper into the show since what is happening onstage is happening right then and there.

Overall, live performances are a sight to behold, and UNA has a plethora of shows to choose from.

While streaming services and theatrical movies are fun, I propose students attend more live performances on campus. These performances may invoke a more emotional response in viewers.

The readers who indulge in theatre should voice their opinion on social media. Positive word of mouth will spread, which can influence more people to choose live performances over cinematic experiences.

CIRCULATION MANAGER ALLEN CHILDERS GRAPHIC DESIGNERS DYLAN BAKER DAVID J. SAN MIGUEL JUNIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS EVELYN BECKMAN TAYLOR BAUERMEISTER

“The aim of Sudoku is to complete the entire grid using the numbers 1-9. Each number can only be used once in each row, once in each column, and once in each of the 3×3 boxes. Visit www.sudokuoftheday.com for further tips and help on how to play.

CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER MELANIE HODGES STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS ANDREA BELK CALEB COLE ADVISER SCOTT MORRIS COVER PHOTO BY RCA RECORDS HANNIBAL MATTHEWS

The Flor-Ala is distributed biweekly on Thursdays at 70 locations on campus and off.

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

CONGRATULATIONS WRITER AND PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE WEEK! MACIE PIGG

Letters Policy

Letters to the editor should be emailed to editor@florala.net or mailed to: The Flor-Ala, UNA Box 5300 Florence, AL 35632 Letters must include name and telephone number for verification.

AND

Please limit letters to 400 words. The editor reserves the right to

MELANIE HODGES

edit or refuse to publish a letter.

14 PHOTOS

Student learns 'Write' from wrong Materials to ensure success Graduate student Taylor Goodwin is one of the first students in the Master’s of Art and Writing Program. Textbooks that focus on writing are critical in the graduate program.

Book worm As a writer, Goodwin often reads books to draw inspiration.

In order to focus on the material, she seeks a comfy place to read.

Feeling Inspired

Goodwin said she used knowledge from her undergraduate studies in the program. She has been able to apply the knowledge in real-world settings.

MELANIE HODGES Chief Photographer photo@florala.net The decision to pursue a master’s degree is hard enough, especially when the program is brand new.

Graduate student Taylor Goodwin is one of the first students to pursue a master’s degree in technical writing at UNA. The Master’s of Art and Writing Program, now in its second year, provides three tracks: technical, creative and rhetoric.

Goodwin received her undergraduate degree in professional writing and decided to pursue her master’s in technical writing in order to give herself a more competitive edge in the professional writing field, she said.

Goodwin said deciding to pursue

her master’s degree at UNA was a bit nerve wracking.

“No one had finished the program when I decided to join, so it was hard to know what to expect,” she said.

Since the program is in the early stages, Goodwin said her professors have taken students’ thoughts into the growth of the program. Goodwin said she feels this has made her more involved with her education.

Though nervous at first, Goodwin said the program has collected all of the knowledge she learned during her undergraduate years into a real world setting.

“It’s cool to go through the program in the early stages, knowing how it will advance from here,” Goodwin said. “The program gave me the opportunity to take my passion for writing and the arts and turn it into a solid career.”

Collection of thoughts One of the most vital materials for a writer is a notebook.

Goodwin said she writes down her ideas so she does not forget them.

CALENDAR 15 Thurs., March 8 What: English Department Graduate Conference When: 4 p.m.

Where: GUC Loft What: A Little Variety Show When: 8 p.m.

Where: 116 E Mobile

Fri., March 9 What: English Department Graduate Conference When: 2 p.m.

Where: GUC Loft What: Hollis and Ally Burgess concert When: 7 p.m.

Where: 116 E Mobile What: Spring Strings Show When: 7 p.m.

Where: The Mane Room

Sat., March 10 What: English Department Graduate Conference When: 8 a.m.

Where: GUC Loft What: Junior Visit Day When: 8 a.m.

Where: Norton Auditorium What: Florence Wine Fest When: 1 p.m.

Where: Wilson Park

Mon., March 12 What: Florence Bicentennial Birthday Bash When: 3:30 p.m.

Where: Wilson Park

What: UPC Meeting When: 3:30 p.m.

Where: Student Engagement

Wed., March 14 What: Wendell W. Gunn University Commons Naming Ceremony When: 5 p.m.

Where: The Commons What: How I Met Your Mother Trivia When: 6:30 p.m.

Where: Singin’ River Brewing Co. What: Light The Fountain When: 7 p.m.

Where: UNA Fountain

The Flor-Ala File Photo

Panic! at the Disco’s Brendon Urie performing at spring concert in 2016. T-Pain will be taking the stage March 15 at Flowers Hall for spring concert this year.

Thurs., March 15

Sun., March 18

What: Make a Terrarium Class When: 5:30 p.m.

Where: Reclaimed Spirit

What: Intuitive Painting Workshop When: 1 p.m.

Where: Reclaimed Spirit

What: Voices Unplugged When: 5 p.m.

Where: St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church

What: Pop Up Gay Bar When: 8 p.m.

Where: 116 E Mobile

What: UPC Spring Concert Featuring T-Pain When: 8 p.m.

Where: Flowers Hall

Sat., March 17 What: Easter Cookie Decorating Class When: 2 p.m..

Where: Studio 23

Mon., March 19 What: UPC Meeting When: 3:30 p.m.

Where: Student Engagement

Tues., March 20 What: Dawg Yawp & Caleb Elliot concert When: 7 p.m.

Where: Heavy Color

Wed., March 21

What: St. Paddy’s Day Drinking Songs When: 7 p.m.

Where: 306 BBQ

What: Freshman Forum Meeting When: 3:30 p.m.

Where: Student Engagement

What: Firekid at LIVE When: 8 p.m.

Where: Singin’ River Brewing Co.

What: Gilmore Girls Trivia When: 6:30 p.m.

Where: Singin’ River Brewing Co.

What: Hidden Figures movie showing When: 7 p.m.

Where: UNA Planetarium

Thurs., March 22 What: Senate Meeting When: 3:30 p.m.

Where: Student Engagement

Fri., March 23 What: Young Valley & JM Stevens When: 7 p.m.

Where: 116 E Mobile What: Future Thieves & Rock Eupora concert When: 8 p.m.

Where: The Mane Room

Sat., March 24 What: University closed for Spring Break

Check online at una.edu/calendar for more events and updates.

16 SOCIAL MEDIA OF THE WEEK

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