Nov. 13 Issue

Basketball preview 1B

IT’S KITTS

Nov. 13, 2014

Volume 83, Issue 13

www.FlorAla.net

Student newspaper of the University of North Alabama

ADMINISTRATION

photo courtesy of Shannon Wells

Candidate accepts president position AASHLEY SHLEY REMKUS REMKUS

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The Th T he bo boar board arrd of o ttrustees rust ru stee eess ee announced a no an noun unce un cedd it ce itss pi pick ckk ffor o tthe or he nnext extt ex university Nov. u iv un iver ersi er sity ty ppresident reesi side d nt de n N ov v. 5, 5 after more four afte af terr mo te m re tthan haan ffo ourr hhours ours ou r ooff rs closed clos cl o ed session os ses essi siion deliberation del elib i er ib erat atio ioon th that at spanned days. span sp aan nne nedd tw twoo da days yss. ys.

Kenneth Kitts, Kenn Ke nnet nn ethh Ki K tts, tt s s, ccurrent u re ur rent n provost prov pr ovos ov o t and os and vice vice c chancellor cha hanc ncel elllo lor for Affairs the for Academic Acad Ac adem ad e ic em i A ffai ff a rss aatt th ai he University U iv Un iver ersi er siity ooff North Nort No rtth Carolina Caro Ca roli liina aatt Pembroke board’s Pemb Pe mbro rooke k accepted acc ccep epte ep ted d the thhe bo boar ard’ d’ss offer Nov. offe of ferr No N v 7. v.

7. board voted The bo Th boar ardd vo vote ted d 88-0 0 in i ffavor avor av or of Trustee Marcus o hiring hir irin i g Kitts. in K tt Ki tts. s T rust ru stee eee M a cu ar cuss Maples was M pl Ma p es es w a not as nott ppresent. rese re sent nt.

“All were ““A All ooff the t e candidates th cand ca ndid iddat ates es w eree er highly qualifi ed, but I kept high hi ghly gh lyy qua uali lifi li ified e , but kept coming cco om miing g bback acck to tthe h iimportance he mpor mp orta or tanc ta ncee nc

INSIDE

this week’s paper

of the plan the enrollment enr nrol olllm ollm men ent pl ent lan aand nd student retention,” stud st udent rete re tent te nttio i n, n,”” ssaid sa aid idd President Pro Tempore Pr ressid iden entt Pr en o Te T m or mp o e of tthe h he board Marty Abroms. boar bo a d Ma ar M rty rt y Ab A roms ro ms. “II tthink ms hinkk hi Kenn Kitts K Ke Kitt Ki ttts had haad the thhe best best ability be to work wor ork k on on the the he retention n factors will affect that th a w at ill af ill il affe fect c oour ur eenrollment.” nrol nr ollm lmen ent.”

During more D uri ring ng the the search, h, m oree or than university needs th han 220 0 univ i ersity nee eeds ee eds d were identifi ed, iden id enti tifi fied edd, and and the the candidates caand ndid i at id ates es were w we ere ccompared o pa om pare red d on hhow o tthey ow heyy he those ccould co ould ulld be bbest st filll th thos osse needs, o need ne edds, s said saiid trustee and Search ttr rus u teee an nd Presidential P es Pr e idden enti tiial S earcch Committee Chairman C Co omm mmitte mmit teee Ch haiirman rm m JJoel o l oe Anderson.

A An nde ders r on rs on..

Thee T Th nneeds ne e s ed iinclude in clud cl udee fundraising, more fund fu nd dra r is isin i g, developing in dev evel elop el opin op ing in g mo m re student-centered marketing st tu ud den entt-ce c nt ce nter ered er ed m arke ar keti ke ting ti ng aand nd matching matc ma atcchi h ng tthe he ccourses o rs ou rses ess ooffered ffer ff e ed er student Anderson wiith stu with t de tu dent nt nneeds, eeeds ds,, An A ders de r onn rs said. sa aid id.

“We tried each “W We tr trie ieed to o ttake akee ea ak achh oone nee

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

and where ooff the the h candidates caan ndi dida ddaate tes aan tes nd see wh heerre they ranked in each particular thhey the ey ran anke ked in eacch partic icul ullarr area,” “There never area a,” hhee sa ssaid. aid id. “T The here rree was nev ver case a ca ase se where wheeree one onee candidate can and ndidate rose rosse others, way above abov ovve the ove t e ot th othe heers rs,, but some mee started happen creeps start rttedd tto o ha happ pppen and ppe nd it just ju st seemed too be be a little litt lit li ttle more mor oe consistency Kenneth Kitts.” cons co nsis iste t ncy in K eennnneetthh Kit ittts.” cannot Thee board ca Th ann nnot ot vote formally informally, form fo rmal ally ly oorr info foormaalllly ly, orr qualifi discuss job joob qu qual aliifi ifi ficccations a iioons in at in cclosed cl o ed session, according os accco cord rdin din i g to Alabama A Al lab a am ab amaa la law. w.

But, Bu ut, t, iitt is i allowed all llow owed ed tto o me meet e privately under good priv pr ivat atel at elyy un el nde d r th thee ggo ood o namee and clause an nd character c arrac ch acte terr ccl te lauuse lau se ooff th the he Alabama Meetings Act. Alab Al abam amaa Op Open en M eeti ee ting ti ngss Ac ng A ct. t Abroms Abro Ab roms ms said sai a d he he contacted conntaact cted ed Wheless Partners, W Wh e es el esss Pa Part r neers r , th thee fi firm rm that th hatt cconducted o du on duct cted edd the he ppresidential resi resi re side dent ntia iall ia search, during the closed sear se arrch c , du duri ring ri ing ng the he clooseed session could sess se ssioon as it ss it co coul uldd pr ul pprovide ovid ovid ov idee

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

trustees with more information ttr ruu about the candidates. ab He said the search firrm discussed a range of compensation with the co o and he expects the ccandidates, a salary will increase. pposition po o “It’ll be competitive with other colleges in our peer ot th group,” he said. “It may be a bit gro gr o more m mo o (than the current salary), bbut bu u it’ll be in that general range.” ra an The current salary is approximately $250,000. ap p The board looks to replace William Cale who announced W his retirement via email to faculty and staff in March. fac fa Until a permanent president takes office, former Vice takk ta President for Academic Affairs P Pr

and Provost John Thornell fills the position as interim president. Cale remains at UNA in a consulting role as president emeritus through Dec. 31. Both Cale and Thornell retain the full compensation of the presidency, which is $20,909 per month, according to the university spending website.

Anderson said he expects negotiations with Kitts will begin within the next week.

Abroms said Kitts should arrive toward the end of March or the beginning of April 2015, as long as a salary agreement is reached and the employment contract is finalized.

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HOW TO BE AN ACTIVE BYSTANDER ...5B

Please recycle your paper.

2A NEWS

Nov. 13, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

PROFILE

Kitts: My family and I canʼt wait to be at UNA ASHLEY REMKUS

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In the beginning there were 46 applicants, but in the end, only one remained.

The UNA presidential search spanned several months as the pool of candidates narrowed to 19, then to nine, then to three until the board named Kenneth Kitts its choice for UNA’s next head honcho.

Kitts was working in his office at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke when the call came in from Presidential Search Committee Chairman Joel Anderson.

“I was thrilled — just absolutely thrilled,” Kitts said. “I’ve been excited about UNA since we got to come meet the entire community.”

When the university’s search firm initially contacted Kitts, he was not looking for a new position. He said he did not begin researching UNA until the call came in from Wheless Partners.

“I wasn’t on the market,” Kitts said.

“Being eight hours away, I didn’t know much about Florence and the Shoals. But I started looking at the UNA website and educating myself about UNA and the community and the region.

“I was intrigued. The Shoals has it’s own unique identity. Everyone at the school and in the area had a tremendous amount of pride.

“I made a quick trip over before my airport interview on a Sunday afternoon, and I really liked what I saw.”

Kitts said because he and his wife, Dena, have two young children — Colin, 8, and Corbin, 5 — any consideration of a career change that requires moving is a family decision.

“This is not only right for me professionally but also for my family, and we felt like UNA and Florence were

the right fit,” he said. “So after my interview, we were keeping our fingers crossed.”

Kitts said his wife was very supportive of him pursuing the application process for the presidency. She was the first person he called after his conversation with Anderson ended.

“We were blessed in our search, and we had some very high quality candidates,” Anderson said. “When you look at the particular needs of this university at this particular point in time, in order to provide a successful future, one of these (candidates) started to evolve as the better choice.”

He said he believed Kitts had the greatest ability of the candidates to move UNA forward in the future.

Kitts brings more than 20 years of classroom experience and 14 years in university administration.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Appalachian State University in 1985.

He went on to receive a master’s degree at the university in 1987 before getting a Ph.D. from the University of South Carolina in 1995.

“Being in the classroom is my passion,” Kitts said. “Soon I look forward to teaching at UNA.” He said a university president being in the classroom is of utmost importance.

“This is something that has been very important for the faculty since President (Bill) Cale announce his retirement early this year,” said Faculty Senate President Scott Infanger. Cale had academic experience. He had the perspective of what it means to be a faculty member at a university.

“That was one of the absolutes for faculty support. Kitts rose up through the ranks.”

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photo by PEYTON BYRD I Staff Photographer

President-elect Kenneth Kitts interacts with students, faculty, staff and the community during his open forum presentation Oct. 16. Kitts wowed the crowd with entertainment while giving his platform if chosen as president.

CRIME

3 football players arrested for misdemeanors ASHLEY REMKUS/DUSTIN POLLARD 6M_[ -LQ\WZ ;XWZ\[ -LQ\WZ VM_[(NTWZITI VM\

Three UNA football players were arrested on alcohol-related charges early Sunday morning, officials said.

WINGO (ABOVE LEFT) MCCARLEY (ABOVE) LOVELACE (LEFT)

Luke W. Wingo, 20, 714 Willingham Road, Florence, Griffin M. McCarley, 19, 1541 Helton Drive, Florence, and Wilson T. Lovelace, 19, 358 Kingston Drive, Florence, were arrested on the charge of a minor in possession of alcohol, police said.

They were arrested for the misdemeanor charges at the Willingham Road residence, according to reports.

Wingo, a junior, has been the Lions starting quarterback since the end of the 2012 season. He passed for 1,630 yards and 11 touchdowns this season, despite missing two games due to a shoulder injury.

Lovelace, a freshman, is the starting long snapper for the Lions.

Freshman linebacker McCarley has not seen playing time this season.

“The student-athletes brought the arrest to our attention,” said Athletic

Director Mark Linder. “We are going to handle it internally.”

Linder said the players will not be suspended from the team.

He said any time players are charged with a misdemeanor, they are not suspended.

“Obviously, I’m disappointed that this occurred,” said head coach Bobby Wallace. “Luke will start this Thursday, and so will Lovelace.”

Linder said he acknowledges the players made a mistake.

“Obviously we are disappointed, but it’s our job to help them learn from their mistakes and move forward, so we will do that.”

Editor’s note: Stick with The FlorAla as this story develops. Check www. florala.net for updates.

”

THE STUDENT-ATHLETES BROUGHT THE ARREST TO OUR ATTENTION. OBVIOUSLY WE ARE DISAPPOINTED, BUT ITʼS OUR JOB TO HELP THEM LEARN FROM THEIR MISTAKES AND MOVE FORWARD, SO WE WILL DO

THAT.

MARK LINDER ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

NEWS 3A

Nov. 13, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

FACILITIES

photo by KATLYN SHANNON I Staff Photographer

Junior Kenzie Davis and sophomore Wesley Balch detour around the site of cleaning supplies outside the Art Department Nov. 10. Facilities Administration and Planning hired a company to begin chemically cleaning the outside of several campus facilities last week. Davis and Balch said the department responding to campus concerns about the quality of buildings makes them feel like the administration cares about student concerns.

Facilities begins improvement of campus outer appearance ASHLEY REMKUS/NATALIE BEE

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Those who voiced concerns about the quality of the Music Building, Art Department and Memorial Amphitheater are beginning to see changes for the better.

Throughout the semester, The FlorAla published a series of articles in which students and faculty members described the conditions as less than favorable.

Last week a company hired by Facilities Administration and Planning began chemically cleaning the outside of the buildings, said Assistant Vice President Michael Gautney.

“It’s a start,” Gautney said. “The price we’re working with is $25,848.”

Freshman Ambreia McDaniel and Sophomore Kesha Evans said the work is not going unnoticed.

“It’s good they’re trying to fix the problems,” McDaniel said. “Especially with Preview Day and other events that bring a lot of people to campus, you want the students to think ‘I want to come here because the campus looks nice.’”

Evans said the work is proof the administration hears student concerns.

“It gives people a reason to talk and voice their concerns and opinions about their school,” she said.

Gautney said the plans for cleaning the building began in September, before student concerns were presented.

SGA Vice President of Senate Nick Lang said his organization has reached out to the department to request cleaning on campus since last year.

SGA requested a black substance that coats the top of Memorial Amphitheater be removed, he said.

He said he met with Gautney and Assistant Director for Facilities Administration and Planning Mike

Thompson last week to discuss that and other projects SGA would like to see happen.

“The Flor-Ala’s articles really pushed this issue, and it helped a lot,” he said.

“The Amphitheater is going to be chemically cleaned over Thanksgiving break.”

He said he also discussed other projects with Gautney, including getting campus maps and replacing the benches near the Amphitheater.

”

IT GIVES PEOPLE A REASON TO VOICE THEIR CONCERNS AND OPINIONS ABOUT THEIR SCHOOL.

KESHA EVANS SOPHOMORE Gautney said the meeting puts the efforts in “preliminary stages,” and right not they are working to see what funding is available.

Lang said SGA hopes getting campus maps will help new students and visitors navigate to classes and other campus locations. “(Gautney and Thompson) said they appreciate the issue being brought to their attention,” Lang said. “I’ve already scheduled another meeting with them so we can achieve our goals this semester.”

Gautney said the work on the Art Department and Music Building should was about 75 percent complete Nov. 7 and will continue during the Thanksgiving holiday.

“It is a start,” said junior Cody McGowan. “It’s nice to see them responding. There’s still a long way to go because the inside of the buildings are worse than the outside appearance.”

photo by KATLYN SHANNON I Staff Photographer

An employee works outside the Art Department Nov. 10. The project to clean two campus buildings and the Amphitheater, which began last week, is expected to continue during Thanksgiving break.

photo by ASHLEY REMKUS I News Editor

A group of workers stand atop the Art Department Nov. 10. Students said they appreciate the effort Facilities Administration put forth to improve campus beautification.

4A IMAGES

Nov. 13, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

LIFE IN

LAGRANGE ▶

Pool Time Kamilah Abernathy plays at the pool table in the LaGrange Hall common area. The area also has tables where students can eat and study, and a computer lab and a Ping Pong table.

▶

Whether it be working in the laundry room or playing pool, living in LaGrange Hall has unique benefits for its femaleexclusive residents.

I would argue because of the gender selectivity, LaGrange brings an atmosphere of trust and understanding between the ladies living there. In my experience, LaGrange has a sense of community that brings all the girls together.

Freshman Allison Farris explained “in (LaGrange) you can walk around and not have to worry about looking nice.

Nobody will judge you.”

This sense of trust and stability also benefits late-night study groups or lastminute paper-writers. “(LaGrange is) quiet for the most

part, and the people are easy-going,” said resident Tayler Hunt. “Everyone does their own thing, which is helpful when you’re trying to get work done.”

The friendly gestures and all-over good-natured feeling of the residence hall do not only extend to its mostly quiet and relaxing atmosphere, but carries on into Harry Potter marathons and playing pool in the game room.

I have found friendships, fun times and peace are a part of students’ everyday lives at LaGrange. Granted, there will always be those few noisy people that stumble in at 3 a.m. on a Tuesday or the messy roommate that you never see.

At the end of the day, the peaceful place to study combined with an easygoing community environment can easily overshadow the cons of life in a college dorm.

Devin Hale works on class assignments in the LaGrange Hall lobby. The peace and quiet is a positive aspect of the residence hall. ▶

PEYTON BYRD

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Evening Chats Freshmen Kristen Newby (left) and Alisha Rucker enjoy the quiet, relaxing area in LaGrange’s common area.

Girls can be found chatting in the area at all hours of the night — peacefully during quiet hours.

Keeping it Clean Allison Farris washes dishes in the LaGrange kitchen.

Like other dorms on campus, the community kitchen is equipped with a refrigerator, microwave and stove.

NEWS 5A

Nov. 13, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

PROFILE

Student swears in as Collinwood commissioner ASHLEY REMKUS

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Whoever said young people know nothing about politics must not have met Chassity Martin.

The 20-year-old UNA junior was sworn in as city commissioner in her hometown Collinwood, Tennessee Nov. 10.

Martin became the youngest person ever elected to the council when she claimed victory last week.

“I’ve lived there all my life in the same house, and my dad lived there when he was my age,” Martin said. “I know all the issues, and I think I can really make a difference for the better.”

Martin said she made the decision to run for office based on the influence of friend Jason Rich.

Rich also ran for political office when he was a student at UNA and is now the Wayne County executive.

“When Chassity talks, she’s not just saying the stuff people want to hear,” he said. “The importance of another generation coming in and learning a little bit about the way politics works is they will continue to carry on what’s already been started.”

Martin said the response from the community was supportive throughout her campaign.

“When I ran, everyone in the town was very positive,” she said. “If they hadn’t been, they wouldn’t have elected me.”

When someone questioned her age, she said she replied, “Don’t judge somebody by how many years they have lived — judge them based on what they’ve done with those years.”

Martin is a political science major with a minor in legal studies and says she hopes to practice law in the future.

She said it is important to make sure the city does everything legally, and she can get a jumpstart on her career in her current position.

“My mom has always encouraged me to get civically involved,” she said. “I realize that’s what I like to do, and I feel like it’s something I need to do.”

She recalled going to the polls to vote with her parents Kenny and Sabrina Martin when she was a child.

“Chassity’s always been very ambitious,” Sabrina Martin said. “She’s got lots of achievements, and she can focus on what really needs done in our city and county.”

Sabrina Martin and Rich said Chassity Martin’s former experience prepares her to perform well in her new position.

She has worked for several political candidates, including Congressman Mo Brooks. She is a Wayne County Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, a Wayne County Welcome Center employee, Wayne County Republican Women president and the area vice president for the Tennessee Federation of Republican Women.

“She can use her experience to see things from a fresh perspective,” Sabrina Martin said. “Maybe some of the people that have been on the council don’t see some of the things she notices.”

Rich said Chassity Martin’s interest in politics has been evident for several years.

“I’ve known Chassity since she was a child, and she has had an interest in politics since her early teen years,” he said. “I sincerely think she’s going to be fantastic. She has a level head, and she doesn’t bow to any one group. I am convinced we need more young people in politics.”

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Chassity Martin said she thinks younger people getting involved in politics is becoming more common.

“People just want to see their taxpayer dollars at work, and I think our generation is more focused on numbers and facts, and we want to be more transparent,” she said. “Local government is what affects

people the most. It’s on a much smaller scale than the other offices, but you’re doing the same thing — just closer to home.”

photo courtesy of Chassity Martin

Chassity Martin and Jason Rich pose for a photo at a political fundraiser in October. Martin said Rich influenced her to run for a seat on the Collinwood, Tennessee City Commission.

ENROLLMENT

Preview Day offers opportunity for campus exploration KALI DANIEL

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photo by KATLYN SHANNON I Staff Photographer

High school students visit the Honors Program booth in the GUC during Preview Day Nov. 8. Director of Admissions Kim Mauldin said students attending Preview Day have the opportunity to explore UNA without the obligation to apply.

After sending 44,000 invitations to high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors and potential transfer students, the university hosted a successful Preview Day Nov. 8.

Potential students, families and friends met in Flowers Hall to begin their Preview Day experience, which included exploring campus, hearing from representatives of each of the university’s colleges and enjoying a Lions football game.

“This is our biggest recruiting event of the year,” said Associate Director of Admission Julie Taylor. “This year was really big. Flowers was packed to the gills.”

A total 1,450 students registered at the event and, with family and friends included, attendance reached 3,061.

“This is strictly designed to be a preview,” said Director of Admissions Kim Mauldin. “We encourage them to come back on a more individualized guided tour. There is no pressure to apply to UNA, we just want to give prospective students and their families the opportunity to see what we have to offer.”

Cherokee High School senior Jonathan Wells said he plans to attend UNA beginning fall 2015, and that he learned about Preview Day when Admissions counselors spoke at his high school.

“She said it was a big thing where you get to learn more about the school than you would learn on a regular tour,” he said. “The most important thing (about coming) was I got to learn a lot about the major I want to go into, which is English.”

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6A NEWS

Nov. 13, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

RSO

Organization hosts diversity events ASHLEY REMKUS

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Considering the famous quote ‘everyone is different just like everyone else,’ the UNA NAACP chapter plans to celebrate the differences between people rather than becoming divided because of them.

“The purpose for NAACP at UNA is to give people another option for diversity,” said president Destiny Battles. “As a college chapter, it is about influencing college students to have an opinion about issues in the world — educating themselves about diversity and about being a citizen in America today.”

The organization will host two events to promote its goals during November.

The Last Call Open Mic Night is Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. in the GUC. “It’s a chance for students to be anything they want to be,” Battles said. “It gives UNA an alternative to going out — maybe staying on campus and enjoying your fellow students’ entertainment.”

Battles said the organization hosts open mic night the third Monday of each month, but this time the group is going for a classy theme that is “grown and sexy.”

She said the entertainment includes

singing, speaking, poetry reading and playing music, and free food will be served.

The organization also will host Beneath the Mask: The Importance of Individuality Nov. 24 at 5 p.m. in GUC Room 207.

“It is a way for us to get you to take off the masks you wear everyday and to become open to the people around you.”

Battles said. “If we were all supposed to be the same, do the same things and dress the same, we would’ve had the same finger prints — everything would’ve been the same.

”

WHETHER YOUʼRE IN SGA OR A SORORITY OR FRATERNITY, GAY OR STRAIGHT, OR WHITE OR AFRICAN-AMERICAN, EVERYONE IS WELCOME.

DESTINY BATTLES NAACP PRESIDENT “But, it’s not. We have different fingerprints, different personalities, and we think different things are funny. We are all different people — there are no

two people exactly the same.”

Junior Erica Butler said she has attended several events NAACP hosted, and she thinks it is important for all students to embrace diversity.

“It’s important for people to know even though we’re different, we’re really all the same in that we’re all people,” Butler said. “It’s really interesting to experience the NAACP’s events and see people of all races and backgrounds come together.”

Battles said the event reflects the organization’s main theme — equality.

“Everybody immediately thinks, because we are the NAACP, we are only for African-Americans,” she said.

“Whether you’re in SGA or a sorority or fraternity, gay or straight, or white or African-American, everyone is welcome.”

Butler agreed students should not let the group’s name and historical significance make them think they are not welcome to attend the events and get involved.

“Don’t let the name scare you away,” she said. “There’s people there that are white, African-American, AsianAmerican, all kinds of people.”

Editor’s note: To read the rest of this story, visit www.florala.net.

5):<16 KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM ) Chassity Martin said she thinks younger people getting involved in politics is becoming more common.

“People just want to see their taxpayer dollars at work, and I think our generation is more focused on numbers and facts. We want to be more transparent,” she said. “Local government is what affects people the most. It’s on a much smaller scale, but you’re doing the same thing — just closer to home.”

She said she does not devote all of her time to being a student and an active political participant.

During her free time, Chassity Martin said she enjoys shopping and spending time with her family and friends.

“I don’t have much time these days, but when I do I spend it with the people I love,” she said.

She also said she expects her time will be more precious as she begins her role as city commissioner, but she cannot wait to get started.

“I want citizens to call me and tell me what their concerns are,” she said.

Rich said the community can expect big improvement.

“The citizens of Collinwood are going to be very well served with Chassity as their representative,” he said. “I have seen what she can do, and I know she will continue the good work.”

VIEWPOINTS 7A

Nov. 13, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ANNA GRACE USERY

SGA serves campus, requests student opinion

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 ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE KAYLA STINNETT CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER DALLAS MOORE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS PEYTON BYRD DEANNA KAMPMEYER KATLYN SHANNON

NICK LANG

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As a student and the SGA vice president of Senate, I think it is very important students know what is going on at their university. The Senate branch of SGA is the legislative branch that deals directly with student concerns. It is very important students voice their concerns to their SGA representatives so they can implement what students would like to see happen on campus.

Your SGA Senators have been working hard to ensure

Letters Policy Letters must not exceed 400 words.

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

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

Senate is not pushing for any new bathrooms to be built on campus at this time.

The senators encourage all students to give feedback on this possibility while we are working on details and researching the topic.

Senate is also working on a resolution to push the administration for better enforcement of the campus smoking policy. This resolution will push enforcement of the “30-feet rule” that is already in place. This rule states there will be no smoking within 30 feet of any facility entrance. Senate plans to revisit the idea of a smoke-free campus resolution in the spring semester when research and student feedback have been gathered.

All of these goals and initiatives are strictly for the students at UNA. This is just a highlight of what your senators are working on. They address

many projects throughout every week of the semester. I encourage you to come by the SGA office and speak to any officer or SGA representative about any issue. We value any feedback on any campus issues.

Your voice as a student is vital to everything we do. It is important we as students work together to make this campus the best it can be.

SHARE

YOUR THOUGHTS

• Attend weekly Senate meetings in GUC 200 Thursdays at 3:30 p.m.

• Utilize the suggestion box at una.edu/sga • Complete a Main Idea Campaign Proposal on OrgSync • Talk to SGA representatives

Christian ethics should be re-evaluated this season

ADVISER SCOTT MORRIS

The deadline for submitting letters is 10 a.m. Monday, the week of publication.

your voices are heard. One of the main things the Senate branch is currently working on is improving campus beautification and navigation.

Senate made contact with Assistant Vice President for Facilities Administration and Planning Michael Gautney to discuss the possibility of acquiring new benches in front of the Amphitheater and building a campus map to help new students navigate to their classes. SGA Senate allocated $5,000 of its budget in a campus improvement budget line item to address these goals.

Another major item your SGA Senate branch is working on is the implementation of gender-neutral or family restrooms on campus.

Senate is pushing for each building on campus to have at least one restroom that is labeled “gender-neutral” or “family” restroom. However,

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Home Depot officially released its holiday commercial, turkeys are going on sale and dads are making their way to the attic, lugging fake trees and Rudolph yard decorations from the depths of a black widow’s lair. Aka, Christmas is upon us.

Tis the season for jolly good cheer, including a bounty

of gifts, grandmother’s sweets (not the fruitcake) and giving unto others, right?

Unfortunately, those jolly good activities have turned into consumerism, gluttony and manipulation, respectively.

And honestly, I am guilty of all these. Well, after 22 years of being a greedy American, the buck stops here.

Granted, there are people out there who genuinely give to those in need out of the goodness of their hearts. And for that, I commend you. You are what is right in the world, and this editorial is in no way directed at you.

To those who manipulate the actual gift of Christmas, let’s have a little lesson on gratitude.

It infuriates me to see

Congratulations to our Photographer of the Week!

Kaitlin Douglass Copyright © 2013 The Flor-Ala All rights reserved.

First copy free.

Additional copies $1 each.

people in the community doling out acts of kindness all for their selfish benefit.

Gratitude extends itself outside shopping malls, too, and for those of you thinking it, I will step up and say church folk mainly seem to be the best at hiding it.

I worked at Logan’s Roadhouse waitressing for a period of time early in my college career and the holidays were horrific. Who knew a 15-minute wait mixed with hunger would bring out the worst in people?

I specifically told my managers I would not work Sunday mornings or Wednesday nights. It never failed I came home emptyhanded and frustrated. “Oh, thank you for that $5 tip after

generously treating your church members to combo platters and beer. I appreciate it,” I always muttered under my breath.

Or, I would be asked to ring up several gift cards in conjunction with their food purchase and would be left with a mere 4-5 percent tip.

Two words: how hypocritical.

There is a lack of respect for our service industry people and it is appalling, especially from those who practice Christian ethics.

I think the golden rule best applies to this situation. Do unto others as you would have them to you. Stop the greed. Be a human being and hone in the true meaning of the holidays — thankfulness, gratitude and love.

FOR THE RECORD...

We strive to get it right the first time, but when we donʼt, we are happy to set the record straight.

•

In the Nov. 6 issue, it was reported SGA Senate Vice President Nick Lang had a meeting scheduled with staff from Facilities Administration and Planning to discuss implementation of gender-neutral restrooms on campus. The meeting was planned to discuss cleaning the Memorial Amphitheater.

•

In the Nov. 6 issue, it was reported SGA Senator Laura Giles said retired Lt. Col. Wayne Bergeron was brought on as a professor when a campus veterans center was not implemented. This information should have been attributed to Bergeron himself.

8A NEWS

Nov. 13, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

SGA in Review • UPC - Voted to adopt a child from the Salvation Army angel tree. No money from the organizationʼs budget will be used; members will contribute all funds. photo by KATLYN SHANNON I Staff Photographer

High school students and their parents walk across campus on Preview Day Nov. 8. The yearly event allows potential students to explore campus and learn more about the academic programs and student organizations without obligation to register for classes.

8:->1-? KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM ) “I learned I could get a double major with literature or professional writing to help my career,” Wells said.

In addition, guests were able to meet faculty and representatives from campus groups like the Honors Program.

“I saw some of the groups and said, ‘that’s definitely for me,’” Wells said.

He said two fraternity members even gave him a tour encouraging him to get involved on campus.

The evening culminated in the last home game of the season against Shorter University, a victory for UNA. Historically, Preview Day occurs on the same day as the last home football game. This year, because the game came later in the semester, Admissions was

31<<; KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM ) “He knows what it means to be a faculty member,” Infanger said. “He’s been through the difficulties. He’s not just applying theory. He’ll have experience that will temper his decisions.

“So, we’re very glad the decision landed on Kitts because we as faculty have confidence he will be able to understand us.”

Kitts said being in the classroom after he arrives at UNA will allow him to understand student concerns.

“It helps you stay in touch with students and what’s on their minds,” he said. “You’re not getting that secondor third-hand. You know what they’re thinking and how they’re feeling.

“I want people to understand where I came from and I haven’t forgotten that. At the end of the day, we’re about education, so what goes on in the classroom is most important, and I need to be there and be part of that.”

Spending time in the classroom is not Kitts’ only passion.

given more time to recruit students to attend the event, Mauldin said.

“As an Admissions team, we’ve been to more high schools and college fairs than we have in the past,” she said.

This year’s registration saw a 4 percent rise in registration from last year’s 1,393 registrants.

The last promise of the day was the opportunity to win a full year’s tuition scholarship, announced at the end of the third quarter.

Phil Campbell High School senior Darion Beam received the scholarship, however she has not yet been admitted.

Ultimately, Wells said Preview Day confirmed what he already knew about UNA. “It helped me decide even more that UNA is where I need to be,” he said. “I know I’m going to be a Lion next year.”

His hobbies include traveling, reading and following college sports — especially college football.

He said he expects he will become a fixture at UNA games, after growing up in the mountains of North Carolina and developing a love for the game.

”

THE SHOALS HAS ITS OWN UNIQUE IDENTITY. THIS IS NOT ONLY THE RIGHT FIT FOR ME PROFESSIONALLY BUT ALSO FOR MY FAMILY, AND WE FELT LIKE

UNA AND FLORENCE WERE THE RIGHT FIT.

KENNETH KITTS PRESIDENT-ELECT Kitts said as a fan of classic rock, he also appreciates the musical culture surrounding the Shoals area.

Preview Day ayy a attendees e 8 31

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“Some of my favorite artists are Bob Seger and The Eagles,” he said.

“I hadn’t even heard of Muscle Shoals before the search firm called me except in the Lynyrd Skynyrd song “Sweet Home Alabama.”

He said because his children are young and active, he and his wife spend the majority of their downtime attending sporting events and other activities.

“If they’re in kickboxing, baseball or church activities, we’re with them,” he said.

Kitts said he expects the area food will be one of the most enjoyable perks of living in the Shoals.

“I grew up in the South, so I love vegetables. I enjoy eating greens and beans — that’s what I grew up on.”

Now, the Kitts family looks forward to the move — into the president’s house, of course.

Kitts said he is eager to stay on campus and keep connected with his work.

“We’re so excited,” he said, “We can’t wait to be at UNA.”

• Freshman Forum - Will hold a door-to-door canned food drive to beginning Nov. 17. Donated cans will benefit a local elementary school.

• Senate - Voted to spend $200 to purchase a new Christmas tree for the Student Engagement Office Angel Tree Drive.

• Senate - Encouraged students to sign online petition to allow a vote by the student body to remove SGAʼs judicial branch.

Senate meets Thursdays at 3:30 p.m. UPC meets Mondays at 3:30 p.m. Freshman Forum meets Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m.

SPORTS

SECTION B

Nov. 13, 2014• The Flor-Ala

PREVIEW

LION BASKETBALL TIPPING OFF 2014-15

Menʼs, womenʼs teams shoot for wins ANNA BROWN

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Tip off is right around the corner, and the men’s and women’s basketball teams have high expectations for the 201415 season.

The Lions are preseason picked to finish third in the GSC by the GSC Preseason Coaches poll. The men’s team is the defending Gulf South Conference champion but lost four starters, including top two scorers Rashuan Claiborne and Bruce Adams.

Men’s head basketball coach Bobby Champagne said he is confident the veteran players will fill in the gaps.

“It’s always tough to replace guys who have been in the program a long time,” he said. “We’ve got some guys who have been here before and know what we’re doing. We’re just trying to mesh the new guys in there with them.”

The team will lean on senior guard Nathan Spehr, junior forward Jere Vucica and senior forward Calvin Dade to step up for the Lions. Spehr shot for 40 percent from three-point land and averaged 12.2 points per game last year.

“We’ve got a few players that were just behind our starters last year, so they’ll be able to step up and have more of an opportunity than they did last year,” Spehr said. “I think it’s going to be difficult, but we have players that are willing to step up.”

Senior forward Marcus Landry is returning to the UNA program. Landry last suited up for UNA during the 2010-2011 season.

“I think if Marcus Landry can return to the type of player

IN THIS SECTION

he was when he left — an allleague guy — I think he’ll be a very good contributor,” Champagne said.

He said he faces the challenge of a small roster this year, and the men will have to work hard and stay healthy to be successful.

“Depth would probably be our biggest concern right now,” Champagne said. “It wouldn’t be as a concern if our team last year wasn’t so deep.”

UNA lost Nov. 8 in an exhibition game 108-83 at the University of Houston. Dade led the Lions with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Spehr added 19 points and hit three threepointers.

The first regular season game is against the University of Tampa Nov. 14 at 5:30 p.m. in Huntsville. The first home game is Nov. 17 against Bryan College at 6 p.m.

”

WE WANT TO WIN EVERY SINGLE HOME, AND WE THINK WE CAN DO THAT.

MISSY TIBER WOMENʼS HEAD COACH After a (15-13, 9-10) campaign, the women’s team are picked by the GSC Preseason Coaches Poll to finish fourth in the league. The Lions return four starters to the team, including preseason AllGSC pick Lauren Faris.

“We want to win every single home game, and we think we can do that,” said women’s head coach Missy Tiber. “I think when we go on the road that we should win the

SPORTS Lions able to clinch conference with win See page 2B

Junior guard Luke Corkey pulls up for the shot during practice Nov. 6. The men’s team looks to defend their GSC Championship this year.

ones that we’re supposed to win and maybe one or two of those that you’re not favored in.”

Faris, a senior, will be returning to the court this season after an ACL tear in early February. The Lions went 3-5 after Faris’ injury.

“I think it’s crucial for us to have Lauren Faris back,” Tiber said. “She’s one of our team leaders. She’s not where she needs to be yet as far as recovery, but she gets better everyday.”

Despite her injury, Faris is optimistic about her recovery.

“I’m excited to play in a game again,” Faris said. “Physically I’m 100 percent, but mentally I have to get there.”

Senior forward Makena Randel is returning to the court after sitting out last season. She led the Lions in scoring and rebounding with 11.8 points and 9.2 rebounds per game in 2012-2013.

“The year before last she was a first-team, all-conference player in the GSC in the post position,” Tiber said. “We’re fortunate to have her.”

Tiber said the depth of the team is the key to success this year.

“Our depth is what’s going to make us good, and that’s why I feel really confident about our team,” she said. “I go home every day wondering who in the world I’m playing. I have a good player at every position and another good player right behind them.”

The regular season starts Nov. 15 at 6 p.m. as the Lions travel to Bellarmine University.

photo by PEYTON BYRD I Staff Photographer

LIFE Volleyball newcomer key to winning See page 3B

Title IX brings active bystander training See page 5B

Campus shares out-ofclassroom hobbies See page 6B

2B SPORTS SCOREBOARD Nov. 6 - 12

Nov. 13, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

FOOTBALL

Lions can clinch share of GSC with win DUSTIN POLLARD

Friday, Nov. 6 UNA

VS.

SOCCER WEST ALABAMA 1-0 WIN

Saturday, Nov. 8 CROSS-COUNTRY GSC Championships BIRMINGHAM

men placed seventh out nine women placed seventh out of 10

FOOTBALL UNA

VS.

SHORTER

45-7 WIN

Sunday, Nov. 9 SOCCER UNA vs. VALDOSTA STATE 3-0 LOSS

Tuesday, Nov. 11 VOLLEYBALL UNA vs. CHRISTIAN BROTHERS Results @ www.roarlions.com

Upcoming

Thursday, Nov. 13 FOOTBALL UNA @ WEST ALABAMA 6 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 14 MENʼS BASKETBALL UNA

VS.

TAMPA

HUNTSVILLE

5:30 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 8 MENʼS BASKETBALL UNA vs. SAINT LEO

HUNTSVILLE 12 P.M.

WOMENʼS BASKETBALL UNA @ BELLARMINE

6 p.m.

Monday, Nov. 17 MENʼS BASKETBALL

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After dominating Shorter University 45-7 Nov. 8, the Lions have a short week to prepare to play the University of West Alabama Nov. 13 in Livingston.

UNA can clinch a share of the Gulf South Conference Championship and host the first round of the playoffs with a win over the Tigers. The Lions have not won the GSC in back-to-back years since 1994-95.

“One of our main goals is to win the Gulf South Conference Championship and we have to win this game to do it,” said head coach Bobby Wallace. “It’s a very important game against our in-state rival.”

The Lions play Thursday night instead of the typical Saturday. The quick turnaround can be tough on players, said junior safety Floyd Jones.

“Some players need more days to rest especially when dealing with injuries,” he said. “We just need to be focused this week since it’s a shorter week.”

The Lions leading rusher Lamonte Thompson suffered a mild concussion against Shorter but was able to practice Monday and will play Thursday, Wallace said.

Junior wide receiver Lee Mayhall is out for the season after dislocating his ankle and breaking his fibula against Shorter.

Wallace said the team will miss Mayhall but does have players to step up at the wide receiver position.

“Korey Jones has stepped up the last couple of weeks,” he said. “I think his

going down as one of the all-time great players in this league. We have to contain him because he is so quick and so fast.

“It is a legitimate comparison at our level to say he looks like Johnny Manziel because he can do things like Houdini.”

Jones said facing a dual-threat quarterback like Caldwell puts extra pressure on the defense.

“He’s just a playmaker and we all know what’s coming at us,” he said. “It’s going to bring out the best in us. And I feel like we’re going to be prepared and ready for him.

“Turnovers will be important and I hope we’ll be able to create four or five.”

Kickoff time is scheduled for 6 p.m.

The game is available for live streaming on ESPN3.

UNA heads to NCAA Tournament DUSTIN POLLARD

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The soccer team faces Saint Leo University in the first round of the NCAA D-II Women’s Soccer South Regional Nov. 14 in Miami.

The Lions are the No. 3 seed after compiling a (13-3-1) record and winning the Gulf South Conference regular season.

It is the fifth time in six years UNA has made the NCAA D-II Tournament.

“It’s nice to be in the national tournament, and it’s nice to play someone

not in the Gulf South Conference,” said coach Chris Walker. “It’s just exciting for the girls, as I could see by watching their reaction (to the selection).”

UNA looks to bounce back after losing 3-0 to Valdosta State in the GSC Championship game Nov. 9. The loss broke an eight-game winning streak and a string of seven shutouts.

“We were overwhelmed and nervous going into the final,” Walker said. “I think learning from that game will help us build from it.”

Saint Leo (12-5), from the Sunshine State Conference, was selected as the No.

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knee has finally gotten better and now he’s starting to come on for us.”

After giving up zero passing yards to Shorter the defense hopes to carry the momentum over to Thursday night when they face the Tigers.

The Lions defense ranks No. 1 in total defense and passing defense in the GSC. “I feel like last game was the best we’ve played all year,” Jones said. “I think we have one of the best defenses in the country. We just have to come out and prove it every week. We have to know our responsibilities as a defense.”

Tigers quarterback Kyle Caldwell has 24 total touchdowns and 2,523 total yards on the season.

“Their quarterback is the key to their whole offense,” Wallace said. “He is

SOCCER

UNA vs. BRYAN 6 p.m.

UNA @ MONTEVALLO

photo by DEANNA KAMPMEYER I Staff Photographer

Junior running back Lamonte Thompson runs the ball against Shorter University Nov. 8. With a win over the University of West Alabama, the Lions can clinch a share of the GSC title for the second time in as many years.

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6 seed. They lost to South Region No. 1 seed Rollins College in their conference semifinal 3-1 Nov. 7.

“The Sunshine State Conference is a great conference with some great teams,” said junior forward Chloe Richards. “I’m really excited to play Saint Leo because we haven’t played them before.”

All-SSC first-teamer Arielle Kabangu leads the Saint Leo squad with 17 goals to go along with her seven assists. Last year as a freshman she was named SSC’s Player of the Year, Offensive Player of the Year and Newcomer of the Year.

Richards said if the team can settle down and play its game they will be fine in the tournament.

“We just didn’t turn up in the game against Valdosta, and we ended up behind and panicked the rest of the game,” she said. “We’ll definitely be calm and ready to go against Saint Leo.” Richards, the GSC Player of the Year, leads D-II in goals with 26 but did not score in the last three contests.

The winner between UNA and Saint Leo will play No. 2 seed Barry University Nov. 16.

SPORTS 3B

Nov. 13, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

PROFILE

Newcomer assists volleyball team in victories KADIN POUNDERS

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Florence is over 1,730 miles away from the island of Puerto Rico, but UNA is currently where junior setter Andrea De Leon’s volleyball journey has taken her.

In her first season at UNA, following two seasons at Georgia State, De Leon led the Gulf South Conference in total assists (1,073) and assists per game (10.32) in the regular season helping the Lions to an (18-11, 14-6) regular season record.

Head coach Stephanie Radecki praised De Leon for quarterbacking the offense and for her defensive play.

“Andrea has a lot of passion for the game. She plays with a lot of intensity and has done a solid job distributing the ball this fall,” she said. “Andrea has the ability to not only run the offense but to be an offensive threat and a defensive strength. That is important to have in a setter.”

De Leon credits team chemistry and teamwork as reasons for her success.

“We are all on the same page,” she said. “I’ve been successful because the defensive players have been doing a great job passing and defending the ball.

That allows me to set a great ball and the hitter can go and take advantage of that.

It’s teamwork.”

De Leon hails from San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico. In addition to playing for her school, she was also a member of a touring Puerto Rican team that won the JVA World Championship and the 16 Open Level.

“It was a team designed to give volleyball players the exposure they needed to scout all over the country,” said De Leon. “It was great. We traveled all over the United States and we became a family. My coaches were great to me and always supported me on everything.

All my teammates got scholarships to NCAA-supported schools. We still see each other when we go back home and it’s great.”

De Leon was also a member of the 2011 Puerto Rico junior national championship team.

Radecki said a team of players from diverse backgrounds and cultures like De Leon and many of her teammates is good for the team.

“Our volleyball program has always celebrated the diversity we have had,” she said. “We have players from all areas of the country and all different backgrounds. We not only welcome those differences but we feel it’s what makes us stronger.”

Editor’s note: to read the rest of this story, visit www.florala.net.

Andrea De Leon

Setter

photo by BRENNA CLEMMONS I Student Photographer

Junior setter Andrea De Leon sets up for the serve against UAH Sept. 20. The Puerto Rican native leads the GSC in total assists (1,073) and assists per game (10.32).

PROFILE

Lions possess playmaker on defense, special teams DARIEN PIPPENS

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A shutdown corner on defense and a dangerous return man on special teams is rare, but the Lions are fortunate to have both in sophomore Philbert Martial.

Martial has helped lead the Lions to No. 1 in total defense and pass defense in the Gulf South Conference. The Mobile native is tied for the team league in interceptions with three.

Martial has returned the three picks

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into 136 yards and a touchdown.

“I think he is the best corner in the conference,” said defensive coordinator Chris Willis. “I also think he might be our best player on defense. The one thing about him he is going to be on you. You have to make a great catch because he is not going to leave you wide open.”

Last year Martial was named GSC Defensive Freshman of the Year and received the UNA Special Teams MVP award.

Head coach Bobby Wallace said

Martial is the best defender he has coached at the position and also the best return man he has coached.

“The biggest thing that stood out to us when we recruited him out of high school was his punt return and kick return ability,” he said.

Martial is No. 3 in the GSC in punt return average with 10.2 yards a return.

He also returned eight kickoffs for 166 yards.

Marital said he plays similar to Arizona Cardinals defensive back Tyrann

Mathieu, a player who made a name for himself as a corner and return man at LSU. “He is a ball hawk, he returns and he can play safety or corner,” he said. “I pattern my game after him.”

Fellow sophomore cornerback Levi Fell said they both use their skill set to complement each other on the field.

“He is really smart. We help each other with film and we make sure we see the same routes,” he said.“We even the field out.”

Apply In Persson Mon-Fri 2PM-5PM

photo courtesy Sports Information

Sophomore cornerback Philbert Martial (right) looks for running room after fielding a kickoff against Mississippi College Sept. 13. Martial established himself as a shutdown corner and dangerous return man for the Lions.

4B SPORTS

Nov. 13, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

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LIFE 5B

Nov. 13, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

SEXUAL ASSAULT

ACTIVE BYSTANDERer Title IX advisory board brings intervention awareness MARI WILLIAMS 4QNM -LQ\WZ TQNM(NTWZITI VM\

Now that changes in Title IX are being implemented, the push to exercise student rights has never been stronger.

As sexual assault issues come to the forefront, it is the campus’ responsibility to learn to be active bystanders.

Senior Jennifer Towne said she thinks active bystander training will bring much needed awareness to students. Title IX coordinator Tammy Jacques said the training will begin in January.

“This will help balance and control environments that have the potential to be dangerous but otherwise allow everyone to have a good time,” she said.

The key to campus success lies in the hands of students, said Andrea Hunt, assistant professor of sociology and member of the Title IX Advisory Board.

“I like to think about it as, ‘What is our culture here?’” she said. “What does it mean to be a Lion? What does it mean to be a leader on campus? That means that we take the lead.

We don’t just sit back and see our classmates hurt. As a Lion, we’re a leader.”

As of May 2014, there were 55 higher education institutes under investigation for possibly violating Title IX, according to the U.S. Department of Education.

UNA is currently not under investigation, Jacques said.

The campus is stepping up and being a leader in this fight by implementing policies that shine a spotlight on Title IX, Hunt said.

“We used to always think about Title IX in terms of sports,” she said. “But in the wake of all these incidences happening on different college campuses, this isn’t just something

that UNA is focusing on. It’s campuses around the nation. Sexual assault has kind of been encompassed in Title IX.” Title IX promotes having a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.

”

I WANT STUDENTS TO BE AT A PLACE WHERE

THEY CAN REALLY ENJOY THE COLLEGE EXPERIENCE AND NOT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT BEING UNSAFE.

ANDREA HUNT

MEMBER OF TITLE IX ADVISORY BOARD

“If you think about the age of students and so many people being together, these things are going to happen,” Hunt said. “I would love to say they would never happen and we have a culture and environment where these things don’t happen, but these things do happen on college campuses. So we have to be very proactive about it instead of reactive.”

As SGA Vice President of Senate and student representative on the Title IX Advisory Board, one of Nick Lang’s goals is increasing safety and awareness on campus.

“While we’re in college, it’s important that students realize there are things we can do and prepare ourselves for,” he said. “I feel like Title IX is one of those things where people will hear about it, but they don’t necessarily know exactly what it means.”

If the campus is proactive, we may start to see a decrease in cases that fall under Title IX, Hunt said.

“We know from other studies that there are a lot more incidences that happen than are reported,” she said. “If we really focus on education and prevention, then we’re going to see these incidences decrease. If we focus on prevention and especially bystander intervention type programs then we can really help minimize these incidences and we can really create a culture change.”

According to the Green Dot bystander training, there are three ways to be an active bystander, Hunt said. A person can direct, distract or delegate.

“A lot of times when people don’t do anything it is because we don’t know what to do. In general when we’re thinking about how to be an active bystander, the first option we have is directing.

“You can also distract. If you’re somewhere and you see something happening, you kind of distract the situation and you let that person get out of that situation. Start talking to the person and say, ‘Hey did you see “The Walking Dead” last night?’ You’re really diffusing the situation through some type of distraction.

“The last one is to delegate. If something happens you should decide who is the person you would tell this to. You don’t have to put yourself in harm’s way but you know who you can go to. We don’t know who we can go to make sure that there is attention put on this and it is stopped.”

Hunt said she sees a bright future for the campus.

“I love UNA and I see this as my community and my home,” she said. “I want students to be at a place where they can really enjoy the college experience and not have to worry about being unsafe. I think if we can get key people — getting a lot of student buyin — we can really see a culture change on campus where we empower each other.”

SEXUAL ASSAULT IN PERSPECTIVE 60 %

Of rapes go unreported, according to the Rape Abuse and Incest National Network

112 rapes occurred in the Shoals area in 2013, according to Rape Response.

One in five college students is the victim of sexual assault, according to the U.S. Department of Education.

6B LIFE HOBBIES

Nov. 13, 2014• The Flor-Ala

Off the Clock photo by KAITLIN DOUGLASS I Staff Photographer

Scott Infanger, associate professor of foreign languages, explains his process of creating bow ties. Infanger uses old ties to make his bow ties from scratch. He has contemplated selling his bow ties but decided against it because he said it would become a job and no longer for fun.

Students, faculty discuss out-of-classroom passions MONDAY SANDERSON

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After a long day at school or work, students and faculty say they want to find a way to relax and unwind.

Most everyone has a hobby, but in today’s society it can be hard to find time to indulge in them.

When junior Johnna Dixon first came to UNA she made decorating her dorm room door a tradition.

“My mom’s an elementary school teacher, and they do that pretty much all the time for their class room doors,” she said. “She came my freshman year and asked me if I wanted to cover my door.

My roommate and I did it with her, and I’ve been doing it since.”

Some students like freshman Samuel Schafer find their passions in fad trends.

“I saw some people (dancing) and I said to myself, ‘I could do that,’” he said.

“I started doing it, and it became fun to me. Then I started dancing by myself and practicing.”

Although some may dread thinking about physical activity, many hobbies come from it.

“Dancing is not only good for a person’s physical health, but also their emotional health,” Schafer said.

“Dancing can help some people release their pent- up emotions.”

Although the benefits of running are obvious to freshman Jordan Cooper, he said he thinks many people do not appreciate the sport the way he does.

“It’s the feeling of always being competitive, not just with others, but also with myself,” he said. “I can push myself to my limits and beyond.”

Lesley Peterson, associate professor of English, picked up gardening when she moved from Canada to Alabama.

“I was very interested in learning more about what kinds of plants grew here,” she said. “It was an interesting

way to learn more about the area.

Gardening here has been my way of putting down roots — literally as well as metaphorically.”

Gardening can be enjoyable for anyone depending on how they look at it, she said.

“I think it’s like cooking: if you think of it as work, then it’s a chore. But if you think of it as something fun that you are doing because you want to and not because you have to, then it can be fun,” she said.

Peterson said she loves the ease of gardening.

“I like getting dirt under my nails,” she said. “And I like that it doesn’t matter if I do it badly. I’m just having fun and not trying to impress anyone. When it goes well, I’ve created a little beauty, which is satisfying.”

Department Chair of Communications Gregory Pitts said collecting outdated technology is nostalgic.

“I worked in radio when I was in high school and college,” he said. “The radios themselves are just kind of neat.

It reminds me of a time when the only way to get information was through the radio.”

Pitts said his favorite part of collecting is the human connection.

“It’s looking at what you have and finding what’s unique and thinking about who listened to it and what it could’ve told them,” he said. “I compare and contrast the technology that we have now to the ones I find.”

Some students and faculty may find it hard to find time to do the things they love.

“Right now my garden is a mess,” Peterson said. “Mostly during the school year I only find time for my garden on weekends. In summers, it’s better. I’ll go out early and putter until about 8 a.m., after which it’s too hot to work outside.”

Scott Infanger, associate professor of foreign languages said he does not have a

lot of time when classes are in session to make the bow ties he often wears.

“It all takes time, and I have found it is easier to do them in batches,” he said.

“I usually take a day during semester breaks to make a couple dozen out of the ones I have prepped.”

Students also have trouble balancing school and personal hobbies, student Jordan Cooper said.

“It’s really hard to find time in college to run,” he said. “I tend to run in the mornings, usually just before class or after class or work if I have time.”

Student Johnna Dixon said she must make time in the day to work on her craft.

“I have to pick a day and tell myself that this is the day that I am going to sit down and cover my door,” she said. “I schedule it in because it’s something that I really like to do.”

Some are lucky enough to have a hobby that can be done anywhere at almost any time.

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photo by KAITLIN DOUGLASS I Staff Photographer

Department Chair of Communications Gregory Pitts explains his passion for collecting older technology. This particular antique is a tape recorder from World War II. The device was used in place of a phone. Families would record their voices and send it to their loved ones.

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Saturday Night Live comedian Pete Davidson performed a stand-up routine Nov. 5 in the Mane Room. Davidson appeared on the Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Guy Code and Wild ‘N Out shows.

SNL comedian receives mixed response KATLYN SHANNON

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Renowned comedian and stand-up act Pete Davidson gave the UNA students and the Florence community a reason to roar with laughter last week. Davidson, a Long Island, New York native can be seen on SNL, Comedy Central, MTV and numerous other TV stations.

Davidson entered The Mane Room Nov. 5 to a full house. Students seemed very excited about the big-name talent coming to Florence and were eager for a good laugh.

I suppose if you kept up with his previous work then you might have been

able to somewhat predict the material that would make up his set. Most of the audience, however, was not that wellacquainted with his previous work and was surprised with some of the jokes he chose to tell.

Davidson came out feisty, beginning with jokes about being high and smoking weed, which no one really knew how to take. There were a few students who made comments in return and some people chuckled. He continued to discuss being from New York and tried another weedrelated joke met with a similar response.

He then went on to discuss how he was in a relationship and thought she was a great girl. He brought up the reason he thought she was a keeper — and this is where things got weird — he went on to publicly announce “she swallows.”

Everyone in the audience lost it. Some students were hysterical with laughter, while others became immediately uncomfortable. A handful of people exited the building, and he apologized.

Personally I think, the idea that he had the audacity to make the joke was

comical in itself, but the fact he actually said it was pushing it.

I feel this type of performance would have done extremely well at a bigger school in a bigger town. Florence seems to be so stuck in the past and uncomfortable with change, and I feel many people were offended by his choice of material to use. I could not have been more pleased with it.

I think this show was precisely what UNA wanted and what the community needed. Florence is a growing town, whether everyone is on board with it or not, and with growth comes expansion of cultures.

Modern culture and ethics in America are changing rapidly, and I think this really brought attention to the idea that it is okay to laugh at something when funny.

Pete’s visit here was a very positive thing, and the remaining crowd most certainly agreed. I do not know if he will ever be invited back, but he will be remembered.

07**1-; KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM * “I just have to make time,” Schafer said. “I do something called tutting, which involves (dancing with) my hands. So, I can easily practice that in class. Anytime I have a spare moment, I dance.”

Call us at 256-764-0731 to schedule your viewing today!

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I SAW SOME PEOPLE (DANCING) AND I SAID TO MYSELF, ʻI COULD DO THAT.ʼ I STARTED DOING IT, AND IT BECAME FUN TO ME.

SAMUEL SCHAEFER

FRESHMAN

photo by KAITLIN DOUGLASS I Staff Photographer

Associate Professor of Foreign Languages Scott Infanger makes bow ties from scratch in his free time. He said he makes about a dozen bow ties over semester breaks.

There is often a story behind the passion.

“My mother loved gardening, and I have pleasant memories of helping her pull weeds sometimes, as a child,” Peterson said. “Maybe that sounds crazy, but I remember those times as companionable.”

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