Nov. 6 Issue

S E O R E H Nov. 6, 2014

Volume 83, Issue 12

www.FlorAla.net

SECTION B

Student newspaper of the University of North Alabama

MENTAL HEALTH

ROTC prepares cadets for mental stress of military ANNA GRACE USERY -LQ\WZ QV +PQMN MLQ\WZ(NTWZITI VM\

The military is often a deadly business, but not for the reason one might think.

In 2012 the Department of Defense reported 319 soldiers died by suicide as opposed to the 310 killed in active combat.

Twenty-two veterans and one active-duty soldier die by suicide each day, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs 2012 Suicide Data Report.

The tragedy not only affects

INSIDE

this week’s paper

those in the military, but it is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. “(Suicide is) a problem with our society and the Army is dealing with the same problem,� said Lt. Col. William Pruett, chief instructor for senior UNA ROTC cadets.

Pruett said he thinks the stigma associated with mental health in the military is changing for the better. “The official Army response under the ‘I. A.M. Strong’ campaign is there’s no effect to your military career if you choose to seek help,� he said.

NEWS . . . . . . . . 2A VIEWPOINTS . . . . 4A LIFE . . . . . . . . . 5A

“Resources are available and we encourage (soldiers) to use them.�

He said the I. A.M. Strong slogan to Intervene, Act and Motivate is reflective of UNA ROTC’s values and teachings.

The program is required to offer suicide prevention and training as a part of the classroom curriculum every semester, on the freshman, sophomore, junior and senior levels. “We have PowerPoint presentations that say, ‘here are the signs and symptoms, here are the resources that are available,

SPORTS . . . . . . . 7A SPECIAL . . . . . . . 1B EXTRA . . . . . . . . 8B

here is how you notice signs and symptoms of those who might be considered at risk, and here’s how you mitigate those risks as leaders,’� Pruett said.

While a portion of the training is educational, he said, the other is a scenario or vignette-based training. “If you’re taking ROTC, at an absolute minimum you’re going to have this training eight times,� he said.

Veteran and Business Management major Louis Miranda was not as prepared as those enrolled in the UNA ROTC program. He said his

physical training was rigorous, but he received no emotional training while in the Army. “In my own experience for a man to reach out suffering from PTSD, it’s hard because of the negative stigma that comes with it,� he said. “It’s seen as a weakness.�

Miranda joined in May 2001 and was medically discharged in 2003. He served stateside in Ft. Louis, Washington as an Army medic.

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FALL SPORTS REVIEW ....... 7A

Please recycle your paper.

2A NEWS

Nov. 6, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

FACILITIES

SGA: University needs gender-neutral bathrooms KRISTEN GOODE

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Many universities across the nation are pushing to adopt gender-neutral bathrooms, and UNA may be the next to fall in line.

SGA senators expressed intentions to bring a resolution to the floor urging university officials to change signs on campus bathrooms.

“Basically, what needs to happen is that each building needs one restroom that is signed ‘gender-neutral’ or ‘family bathroom,’” said Nikki Messer, chairwoman of the Student Welfare Committee.

Messer said SGA is not pushing for the university to build new restrooms, but it wants Facilities Administration and Planning to change the signs on current restrooms from ‘men’ or ‘women’ to ‘gender-neutral’ or ‘family bathroom.’

During open Senate meetings, Messer said the university is in violation of Title IX without gender-neutral restrooms.

“Everyone is protected under Title IX if they are discriminated upon on the basis of their sex or gender,” said Brett Sokolow, UNA’s Title IX compliance attorney.

“Some sexual orientation discrimination is gendered and when it is, it comes within

the protections of the statute. Transgender individuals are protected, but the law does not explicitly require gender-neutral restrooms.”

Senior Bruno Zuleta said he fears safety problems could result from integrating the sexes in restrooms.

“I’m not against it, but I’m not sure it is the right thing to do,” Zuleta said.

“You hear in the media of females being assaulted in bathrooms by males. It can be dangerous.”

He said while campus should have at least one gender-neutral bathroom, one in each building is not necessary.

“Mothers with young sons may need a place to take them,” said sophomore Hannah Campbell. “I have no issue with it at all.”

Sokolow said providing genderneutral bathrooms is a good idea wherever possible.

Senate Vice President Nick Lang met with Assistant Vice President for Facilities Administration and Planning Michael Gautney to discuss the implementation of the gender-neutral bathrooms Nov. 4.

Editor’s note: Because Lang’s meeting with Gautney was held after time of publication, an updated version of this story can be found at www.florala.net Nov. 7.

SGA

Students petition for ʻmilitary-friendlyʼ university KRISTEN GOODE

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Members of the U.S. military who have deployed to combat can choose any university in the nation to attend for an undergraduate degree when their service ends.

To accommodate service members, SGA passed a resolution allocating $25,000 to create a campus veterans center in April 2012. Since then, the money has sat unused because the center has not been put in place.

“Having a veterans center was a big concern for students two years ago, and it still is now,” said SGA senator Laura Giles. “Basically the money we allocated was for anything they needed to set up the center.”

Giles said with an abundance of other large-scale projects on campus, the center has fallen off the radar as a priority with the university.

“Once the Military and Veteran’s Alliance found a location in the GUC, the university was supposed to hire staff, but that didn’t happen,” Giles said.

The approximately 200 veterans who attend UNA are older than traditional students, and they face unique challenges, said retired Lt. Col. Wayne Bergeron.

While many are married and some have children, several others have deployed to combat and come back with some type of injury, Bergeron said.

He said when they start to register for classes, they have to figure out what credit they will receive for their military training and what credit they will receive for college classes taken while they were in the military.

“Freshmen coming in, all they really need is their high school transcript, an acceptance letter, financial aid or mom and dad’s money,” Bergeron said. “Right now, when a veteran walks on this campus, there’s not one single place for them to go like there is at a lot of other universities — to be honest, like our competition.”

Freshman Tiana Hollingsworth said delaying the opening of the veterans center goes against everything UNA stands for.

“UNA is all about helping people succeed,” Hollingsworth said. “The university should do all it can to help those students achieve their dreams and build hope in them that they can do anything they want to do.”

Many universities cater to the needs of veteran students by having a wellstaffed military and veterans center to assist veteran students in both the enrollment process as well as any

challenges they may face as a day-to-day student, he said.

Giles said Bergeron was hired as a contractor to set up the center, but because the center was not a focus of the university, he was brought on as a criminal justice professor.

She said helping the students is left to people who volunteer their time to advise veterans.

”

RIGHT NOW, WHEN A VETERAN WALKS ON THIS CAMPUS, THEREʼS NOT ONE SINGLE PLACE FOR THEM TO GO LIKE THERE IS AT A LOT OF

OTHER UNIVERSITIES

— TO BE HONEST, LIKE OUR COMPETITION.

WAYNE BERGERON

RETIRED LIEUTENANT COLONEL “It’s not their job to advise,” she said.

“It would be the jobs of the people in the center if we had it. They’re just doing it anyway because these people need help.”

The centers are typically staffed by veterans who have an understanding of

the unique language used by those who have been in the military, Bergeron said.

“We don’t have a standing military and veterans affairs program here at UNA. We have Ms. Jeanne Kilpatrick in the registrar’s office, and she takes care of paperwork for GI Bills. But that’s only half of her job.”

Students Braxton Pace and Michael Davis said employees should not be overworked to do a job someone else is supposed to be doing.

“It’s not fair to those people or the students,” Pace, a junior, said.

Bergeron said having one central office where veterans could go is something UNA needs, and he plans to be knocking on the door of the next university president with hopes of getting an office set up.

Pace said the money SGA allocated to pay for the center should not be sitting unused.

“If the center is what’s important to students and they raised the money to pay for it, the university should get people hired,” Pace said.

He said anything that will help veterans will benefit campus.

“The fact they got the money shows people care about it, so it should be a priority,” Davis, a senior, said.

Editor’s note: News Editor Ashley Remkus contributed to this report.

NEWS 3A

Nov. 6, 2014 • The Flor-Ala 5141<):A KWV\QV]ML NZWU XIOM ) Miranda said he and his Army brothers never talked about the stresses of military life.

He said, however, the Veterans Affairs Care System has treated him well. He receives therapy for his PTSD and attends UNA free of charge from VA benefits.

ROTC cadets Jacob Weist and Alyssa Primeau said the cadre (ROTC faculty) has an open door policy for issues related to mental health.

“Along with the semester’s suicide prevention training, the cadre sits each cadet down and says, ‘This is our name, here’s our number, this is our address and this is our email. If you need to contact us about anything at all, feel free to contact us,’” Weist said.

Throughout Pruett’s personal military training, he said he has seen multiple ways of conducting suicide awareness and prevention training, but engaged leadership is the most effective method.

“Engaged leadership is where you know the people that you work with,” he said. “You know something about their lives, like where they were born or something about their friendships and relationships. The only way you can know that is to talk to people in a real way. That’s what I encourage here with all our staff — I just want them to listen.”

Pruett emphasized recognizing problems within oneself and the mental capabilities of others as strength, not weakness.

“Notice the signs and symptoms within yourself, and get yourself some help,” he said. “There is nothing wrong with that — it’s the right thing to do.”

The Army reports the main triggers for suicide behavior are: the breakup of a close relationship, drug or alcohol abuse, leaving old friends, being alone with concerns about self or family, financial stressors, humiliation, discharge from service and retirement, according to the Army Suicide Prevention Program.

Weist and Primeau both grew up in families that encouraged them to be of strong body and strong mind before they sought military careers, they said.

Weist said becoming mentally strong is a lifelong effort, but UNA ROTC has helped him become stronger.

“I just wanted to be a part of something bigger than myself,” Weist said.

The cadets said when they become leaders out in the field, knowing who the soldiers are, listening to them and making resources available to them is how they will enact their engaged leadership.

Presidential Update: Please visit www.florala.net for a full story about the next UNA President. The board of trustees decision came after time of publication.

ACADEMICS

Communications Department steps toward accreditation ANNA GRACE USERY -LQ\WZ QV +PQMN MLQ\WZ(NTWZITI VM\

Future journalism and mass communication graduates of the Department of Communications will likely receive degrees with a second accreditation.

The department recently passed the first stage of accreditation by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communication after a four-person site team came last week to evaluate the program.

“The site team came in and reviewed us to see if we were in compliance with nine accreditation standards and with 12 learning objectives,” said Department Chairman Greg Pitts. “They found we were in compliance. We are doing what we’re supposed to be doing within the program.”

There are 21 public and private colleges in the state of Alabama that offer journalism and mass communication degrees, and UNA likely will become the fourth to be ACEJMC accredited.

Pitts said only 114 programs are accredited globally.

Senior Anna Leigh Rossi, a radio-TV major in mass communications, said the accredited degrees will level the playing

field for UNA graduates.

“It makes us look more legitimate on paper that we came from an accredited department,” Rossi said. “Nursing and teaching are what UNA is known for.

We’re just as great of a program as they are.”

Junior Kahri Bolden, a public relations major, said an ACEJMC accredited degree will likely help him find a job more easily after college.

“We can compete with student from other schools that are more wellknown,” Bolden said, “Employers look at where you graduated, and UNA being accredited will help me compete in the workforce.”

The Communications Department conducted a 220 page self study, with Pitts as the principal author, to examine the program and see where it was in compliance with the nine ACEJMC standards.

“The site team recommended accreditation, and their recommendation will be reviewed and hopefully approved at a March meeting by the accrediting committee,” he said. “The committee’s recommendation goes to the accrediting council who will meet in May.” UNA welcomed Tim Gleason, former dean of the school of journalism at the University of Oregon; Kathleen Fearn-

Banks, associate professor of public relations at the University of Washington; Kathleen Richardson, dean of School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Drake University and Vincent Duffy, news director for Michigan Public Radio at the University of Michigan as the site team.

Senior Elise Adkins, a public relations major, attended the site team’s student sessions.

“It was nice to have a voice in addressing student concerns,” Adkins said. “It could benefit the way the department operates in the future.”

Pitts said the department’s growth does not end with accreditation.

“Accreditation creates a higher standard for us to aspire for,” he said.

“We are going to develop another six year strategic plan to have more engagement with our alumni and with media professionals within our immediate region for the next accreditation review.”

Pitts said he hopes to see the entire department accredited one day.

The council meets May 1 and 2 to give its final deliberation.

Pending accreditation, the department will be considered for reaccreditation every six years.

Seniors Anna Leigh Rossi and Elise Adkins walk out of the Communications Building. A site team from the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communication visited the department last week to meet with students, faculty and staff.

Rossi said having an accredited degree will help student’s from UNA’s Communications Department compete actively with students from other schools and departments in the job market. photo by ASHLEY REMKUS I News Editor

GREEK LIFE

Fraternity supports local philanthropy for Shoals children ASHLEY REMKUS

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Alpha Tau Omega fraternity will host a barbecue competition Nov. 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on campus at the Memorial Amphitheater.

The event is part of the fraternity continuing its philanthropic giving to the local Big Brothers, Big Sisters organization.

“The BBQ Showdown is a community and campus event raising money for Big Brothers, Big Sisters of the Shoals,” said president Christian Bayens. “We’re inviting individuals and businesses to compete with their best barbecue to win the showdown, and community and campus members get to taste all-you-can-eat barbecue for $7 per plate.”

Bayens said he hopes the event

will bring campus and the community together to raise money for a good cause.

”

THE BBQ SHOWDOWN IS A COMMUNITY AND CAMPUS EVENT RAISING MONEY FOR BIG BROTHERS, BIG SISTERS OF THE SHOALS.

CHRISTIAN BAYENS

ALPHA TAU OMEGA PRESIDENT

Alpha Tau celebrated its 149th anniversary by hosting Service September, when it raised approximately $1,200 for Big Brothers, Big Sisters through community contributions and fundraisers.

Vice President Kyle Enloe said the successful month was supported by a

free car wash that brought about $250 in donations and by smaller fundraiser nights at Buffalo Wild Wings that increased the organization’s contribution.

“Since ATO was founded in 1865, the chapter-wide goal for Service September was to get 1,865 service hours throughout the month,” Bayens said.

Not only did the local ATO chapter meet this goal, but the brothers exceeded it by getting 1,910 service hours, Enloe said.

“It seemed nearly impossible at the beginning, but we reached our goal,” said Service Chairman Josh Sanderson.

“It was great seeing all of the guys strive to give back to the community.”

Bayens said he hopes students will attend the event to support a campus organization and local nonprofit that makes a difference in people’s lives.

4A VIEWPOINTS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ANNA GRACE USERY

Nov. 6, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

Forget Superman! Moms are real heroes

MANAGING EDITOR KALI DANIEL NEWS EDITOR ASHLEY REMKUS LIFE EDITOR MARI WILLIAMS

DUSTIN POLLARD

SPORTS EDITOR DUSTIN POLLARD

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ONLINE EDITOR JASMINE FLEMING

Superman may be faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive and able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, but he holds no weight to my mom.

My mom raised three kids, including me, practically by herself and did everything she could to make sure my siblings and I had the best life possible.

BUSINESS MANAGER UNDREA RANDOLPH II GRAPHIC DESIGNERS JOHN BAVIS SHILO CUPPLES JORDAN FERRELL CIRCULATION MANAGER LORI BLANKENSOPP CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER DALLAS MOORE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS PEYTON BYRD DEANNA KAMPMEYER KATLYN SHANNON

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

Letters must not exceed 400 words.

Letters must be accompanied by the 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

now she is going to be in Iraq running around with one?

I was also worried she may get pushed around, and I did not like the thought of a bunch of sergeants yelling at my mom because her shoelaces were not tied a certain way.

I honestly thought she was crazy, and Kid Rock had a better chance of winning a Grammy than she did of making it in the Army.

What I did not realize is my mom has actually been a soldier her entire life.

She has worked tirelessly to make sure there was enough food on the table for her three kids.

The Army was just another challenge for her. She aced it, like usual.

If Jay-Z challenged her

to a freestyle battle I would probably put my money on my mom.

She may not know how to rap but if the winner received enough Chef Boyardee to feed me for a week, I would not put it past her to drop a Biggie Smalls-like verse.

Just call her the Notorious M.O.M. But, seriously. My mom’s superpower is if there is anything she can do to help take care of her kids, she will do it. That is how much she loves us.

I am beyond proud to say she is my mom, and I can honestly say I would not be where I am today without her.

Awesome moms are the real superheroes because awesome moms have no kryptonite.

Group exercise provides physical, mental benefits

ADVISER SCOTT MORRIS

Letters Policy

Her name may not be Rick Ross, but she is a boss for sure.

My freshman year of high school my mom enlisted in the Army because she was struggling to find a job.

I still remember the day she told me she was enlisting.

I actually laughed because I thought she was joking.

Here is a 40-year-old, 5-foot-3-inch, 130-pound woman, who prefers to spend her time reading, doing yoga and watching Oprah. How in the world is she going to make it in the Army?

My mom is originally from New Jersey, the land of GTL (gym, tan, laundry), so I figured she had never even been hunting before.

I highly doubt she had held a gun, much less shot one. And

JASMINE FLEMING 7VTQVM -LQ\WZ WVTQVM(NTWZITI VM\

As a freshman, one of the activities I looked forward to was Zumba on weekday afternoons. A few of my friends and I would try to make all of the classes, which would leave us exhausted but excited nonetheless. The instructor always chose colorful, energetic songs and even when we were tired, we still felt the need to move.

That drive has since disappeared.

I intended to continue visiting the SRC this year, but somehow it never happened.

With two jobs, I do not have the time. Many students might find themselves in a similar situation.

I have since discovered being busy is the best reason for me to continue with Zumba. In a recent study, University of Minnesota researchers found that group exercise for at least 20 minutes increases the usual benefits of regular exercise.

This means college students who attend group exercise classes are more likely to be less stressed and have better overall mental health, in addition to being physically healthier.

As someone who always feels like I have something to do, being less stressed would be a major improvement in my life. And in terms of physical health, I think we would all like to make it to the third floor of Bibb Graves without feeling overexerted.

The study even suggests

university health services integrate as much group exercise activities into programs as they can.

Anyone who has seen the group activity schedule from the SRC knows how many opportunities there are for students to get involved with their friends. From a Yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates combination class, to the seemingly frightening “Ab Attack,” classes are available for all students at any fitness level.

One concern mentioned in the story is individuals who typically avoid large groups are less likely to participate in group exercise. I cannot speak for anyone else, but I can personally testify to the kindness and encouragement of the instructors and other students. Students go to have a unique and enjoyable way to exercise and from the classes I attended, everyone seems to have a good time.

Even though the semester

is more than halfway over, I will not use that as an excuse to avoid the SRC. I also encourage the students, faculty and staff on campus to pick up a group exercise schedule and make time to attend a few classes each week if they do not already. While finding the time to work it into a busy schedule might seem difficult, the number of benefits is too great to overlook.

Congratulations to our Writer and Photographer of the Week!

Olivia Hartung and Deanna Kampmeyer

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LIFE 5A

Nov. 6, 2014â&#x20AC;˘ The Flor-Ala

FINANCES

An overview of student loans

2,353

Students at UNA receiving subsidized federal loans

2,620

Students at UNA receiving unsubsidized federal loans

53%

Since students can take out both types of loans, these categories contain overlap.

According to projectonstudentdebt.org 53 percent of college students in Alabama receive student loans.

According to projectonstudentdebt.org the average amount of student debt for graduating seniors last year was $26,450.

information gathered from student financial services

Financial services advises students receiving loans JASMINE FLEMING

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As years pass, the cost of tuition only increases, forcing a large amount of students to take out loans this semester, and doing so could be detrimental to finances if they do not practice responsible borrowing.

There are 2,353 UNA students receiving subsidized federal loans, meaning all interest is absorbed until the student graduates, said Ben Baker, director of student financial services.

2,620 students are receiving unsubsidized loans, meaning they accumulate interest at the start of the term.

Since students can take out both types of loans, the categories may have overlap.

Baker said he estimates 3,800 students receive federal loans this semester.

Sophomore Dominique White said she receives both a federal loan and a

private loan. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a choice but to take out loans,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The decision was pretty much made for me because if I wanted to come to school, I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do it without a loan. I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pay for it out of pocket, and my parents make too much for me to qualify for the Pell Grant. â&#x20AC;&#x153; Pell Grants are given to low-income undergraduate students.

When taking out loans, it is important for students to only borrow as much as they need, for housing, tuition, meals, transportation and other necessities, Baker said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think there are students here at UNA that will borrow money for items they want instead of items they need,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Project what your cost is going to be for the year, look at the money you have to go toward your cost and borrow responsibly.â&#x20AC;?

Sophomore scholarship recipient Kelly Melton, said she thinks students

should apply for as many scholarships as possible. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You really have to look, but there are a lot of scholarships out there,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are some bizarre ones, like scholarships based on height or if the student is one-sixteenth Cherokee. There are also minority scholarships.â&#x20AC;?

Baker said students should consider whether or not their future job will allow them to pay back loans, even though it can be difficult to gauge.

Because the maximum loan limit is $31,000 for dependent students, they should plan out how much they can borrow per semester, he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If all you ever did was take 12 hours per semester, which is 24 hours per year, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to take you five years to graduate,â&#x20AC;? Baker said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assuming you pass every course, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t change your major and every class goes toward your degree. If you were taking out student loan money every year, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re probably

going to run out of loan money before you get those 10 semesters done.â&#x20AC;?

Full-time students should not work more than 20 hours a week, he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;From our experience here in the (financial services) office, the students who work a greater number of hours are likely to have academic trouble,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are some students that may be married with children, may be single parents or may have dependents. It would be better for that student to be a part-time student, maybe taking one to two courses a semester.â&#x20AC;?

Junior Wesley Daniels said he previously took out a loan but has already paid it back. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you do have to take out a loan, try to find any type of job to start paying back on it,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The more you wait, the more the interest gains, depending on what type of loan you have. I had two jobs to pay off my loan.â&#x20AC;?

P i t Private

â&#x20AC;&#x153; The Stuudio Whe re Winners Go To Train ain â&#x20AC;?

Discou Disc unt o offere ed for those students s par articipat pattting in Miss UNA 1118 Brad dshaw Drive Floren nce, e, AL 35630

256-766-32 6-3226 26 Projects101@att.net

6A LIFE

Nov. 6, 2014• The Flor-Ala

REVIEW

City Hardware offers comfort food with a twist MELISSA PARKER

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When it comes to hunger, downtown Florence has many options to explore. I decided to try City Hardware Thursday for lunch.

Owner Rick Elliot, who also owns neighboring Ricatoni’s, describes the restaurant as an emerging American food joint with a southern accent that serves sushi, according to cityhardwareflorence. com.

The first thing I notice upon arrival is the sign on the building that appeals to the artistic side of me. As I walk through the door, I find the restaurant has a softly lit, unique atmosphere. The hostess greets me immediately and seats me in a comfortable booth with a view of Court Street.

My server promptly took my order moments after I was seated. I asked about the daily special, smothered chicken and two sides for $8. I immediately fell in love with the affordability.

I ordered the chicken, caramelized

EDUCATION

photo by MELISSA PARKER I Student Writer

City Hardware is an American food restaurant located in the heart of downtown Florence. Owner Rick Elliot opened City Hardware’s doors in 2012. Elliot also owns neighboring restaurant, Ricatoni’s.

onion mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli with a sweet tea.

As I awaited my meal, I decided to take another look around the restaurant.

The same sign hanging outside also adorns one of the interior walls. Single lights illuminate each booth.

The atmosphere is quiet enough for good conversation with fun, upbeat music playing through the speakers above. I was surprised by City Hardware’s welcoming and family-friendly environment.

My food arrived within 15 minutes of ordering. It was presented on a bright white, square plate and looked absolutely scrumptious. The boneless chicken breast was topped with sliced red and green peppers and warm, gooey melted cheese. It was delicious.

The caramelized onion mashed potatoes were delectable. They reminded me of something I would eat during a holiday meal, like Thanksgiving. The broccoli was lightly seasoned, tender and

cooked to perfection.

All-in-all the meal was wonderful.

The portions were sized perfectly for a single person and my tea never ran out. I spent less than $15 (including tip) for my lunch, which might seem like a lot on a college student’s budget. But considering the quality of the food, I would say it is worth it — perhaps not every day — but at least twice a month. City Hardware was a comforting treat that did not leave me feeling hungry or poor.

So You Think You Can Plan?

Monday Saturday Professor advises utilizing planning tools ANNA BROWN

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Tuesday

College students face daily challenges of juggling classes, work and social lives.

Luckily, there are products available to assist them in achieving a balanced life.

Thousands of busy individuals around the world use planners — monthly, weekly or daily — to organize their lives.

“I always tell my students that this is one of the best well-kept secrets: the planner,” said Professor of Nursing Ernestine Davis.

Davis said she encourages her students to use a planner everyday and helps students set up planners to make sure they keep organized.

Students need to prioritize their lives in order to be successful, she said.

“Sometimes students become burdened with social activity and personalization of their life,” Davis said.

“They lose focus of why they’re here.

Prioritizing is the name of the game. If you don’t prioritize, you’re doomed.”

Students need to set aside time for school, work and personal time, she said.

Wednsday

Thursday Friday

to June. It includes a planner and information about university events and organizations.

Sophomore Veronica Lewis is a member of the Presidential Mentors Academy. All of the PMA students are required to use a planner.

“I didn’t use a planner in high school because to me it seemed like I was breezing through everything,” Lewis STUDENTS LOSE FOCUS OF WHY THEYʼRE said. “I didn’t need to study in high HERE. PRIOTITIZING IS THE NAME OF THE GAME. IF school. But when I got to college things got harder.”

YOU DONʼT PRIORITIZE, YOUʼRE DOOMED. Some students depend heavily on a planner to keep their tasks in order.

RNESTINE AVIS “I used a planner a little bit in high school,” said senior Brittney McKelvey.

PROFESSOR OF NURSING “But when I got to college, I really started using one.”

McKelvey currently uses a $50 Erin “I’m a broke college student,” said Condren planner.

“Basically, if I don’t write something junior Marianne Gaston. “I eat peanut butter everyday. I don’t have the money down in my planner, it won’t get done,” to go out and buy an expensive planner.” she said.

The “Guide to the Pride” is available While there may be a niche market for fancy planners, UNA provides a free in the Registrar’s Office in 119 Bibb spiral-bound planner for students to use. Graves.

Editor’s note: Veronica Lewis is a The “Guide to the Pride” student handbook and planner spans August student writer for the Flor-Ala. It is important for students to devote time each day to relax.

Although some students do not use planners because of the cost, Davis said she thinks a physical planner is more effective than an electronic planner.

Sunday

”

Notes

E

D

SPORTS 7A

Nov. 6, 2014• The Flor-Ala

SCOREBOARD Oct. 30 - Nov. 5 Friday, Oct. 31

FALL SPORTS

SENIORS L EAVE A LEGACY

VOLLEYBALL

UNA @ VALDOSTA STATE

3-1 LOSS

UNA

VS.

SOCCER MISSISSPPI COLLEGE 3-0 Win

Saturday, Nov.1 VOLLEYBALL UNA @ WEST FLORIDA

3-0 LOSS

FOOTBALL UNA @ DELTA STATE 33-28 LOSS

Sunday, Nov. 2 SOCCER UNA @ DELTA STATE 1-0 WIN

Tuesday, Nov. 4 VOLLEYBALL UNA @ WEST ALABAMA

Results @ www.roarlions.com

Upcoming

Friday, Nov. 7 SOCCER

UNA

VS.

GSC SEMIFINALS CHRISTIAN BROTHERS/WEST ALABAMA

PENSACOLA,FLORIDA

Saturday, Nov. 8 CROSS-COUNTRY

GSC CHAMPIONSHIPS

BIRMINGHAM

UNA

FOOTBALL VS.

SHORTER

3 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 9 SOCCER

GSC FINALS

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA

photo by DALLAS MOORE I Chief Photographer

photo courtesy of Mason Matthews

Senior hitter Megan Gorey (left) tips the ball against Mississippi College Sept. 12. Gorey helped lead the Lions to the GSC tournament. Senior linebacker Steven Rich (right) celebrates a tackle with junior defensive lineman Jalan Jones.

Coaches credit success to senior leadership DUSTIN POLLARD

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The fall sports teams have competed at a high level this year, and it has led to all five teams having tremendous years.

As the season comes to a close many of the teams are in the midst of competing for Gulf South Conference championships.

“The culture of our department has been vital to our success this year,” said Athletic Director Mark Linder. “I think we have a great coaching staff, I think we have a great administrative team and I think we have very good student-athletes that really get it as far as competing at a high level.”

Much of the success this year can be pointed toward the seniors on each respective team, Linder said.

“We started something last year and we did it again this year. It was the senior breakfast,” he said. “We brought in seniors from all the sports and we wanted to thank them for putting in all the hours that they do put in.

“We also wanted to talk about how fast the season is going to be and if they wanted their legacy to be a champion or just have a mediocre year.”

Linder said it is important for UNA athletics to graduate champions.

“When our seniors graduate, we need to make sure we did everything possible to make sure that they have a championship ring on their finger,” he said. “I think the seniors understand that too.”

UNA football has two games left in the regular season and by winning both games, they can claim a share of the GSC championship for back-to-back seasons.

UNA has not won back-to-back GSC championships since 1994-95.

The Lions lost their first game of the season Nov. 1 against Delta State University 33-28. UNA (7-1, 4-1) hosts Shorter University at 3 p.m. for senior night Nov. 8.

”

WHEN OUR SENIORS GRADUATE, WE NEED

TO MAKE SURE WE DID EVERYTHING POSSIBLE TO

MAKE SURE THEY HAVE A CHAMPIONSHIP RING ON THEIR FINGER.

MARK LINDER

ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

“We still have all our goals in tact.

We just need to focus on taking each game one at a time,” said head coach Bobby Wallace. “Our seniors have done a great job as leaders, and it has really affected the whole team.”

Senior defensive lineman Jonhanin Jean-Jacques said the culture has changed for the better from when he was a freshman.

“I was here when coach (Terry) Bowden was coaching, and the team had many players only playing for themselves,” he said. “When Wallace got here it was a complete turnaround. We have better player-coach relationships, and guys are playing for each other.

“Being my last regular season home game Saturday, this game means a lot because I’ve seen it all.”

Jean-Jacques said he is beyond grateful for the opportunity to play four years at UNA. UNA soccer also hopes to claim a

conference championship.

The soccer team earned the No. 1 seed in the GSC tournament and plays Nov. 7 in the semifinals against the winner of Christian Brothers University and University of West Alabama in Pensacola, Florida.

UNA’s (13-2-1) regular season is a turnaround from last year’s (8-8-2) season.

“We said in the beginning of the year that this season was going to be for the whole team and not just the seniors like in the past,” said senior midfielder Danielle Scanlon. “We’ve worked hard as a team this year and we all do it for each other.”

The Lions won seven straight games and shutout their last six opponents to close the regular season.

“Our conference has been really tight all year,” said senior midfielder Abbey Hellem. “We were preseason picked to finish fifth but we finished first, so it shows just how (the tournament) is anybody’s game.”

The volleyball team clinched a birth in the GSC tournament after a (18-11, 14-6) regular season campaign. The tournament begins Nov. 14.

“I’m really excited about what the team has done, and I’m excited about what the team can do,” said coach Stephanie Radecki. “This journey with them has been a lot of fun.”

Senior hitter Megan Gorey led UNA with the most kills in the conference, 394. Gorey was named GSC Player of the Week three times this season.

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

8A SPORTS

Nov. 6, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

State of Alabama wants

RECRUITING

photo by DUSTIN POLLARD I Sports Editor

High number of college football signees benefits UNA DUSTIN POLLARD

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The state of Alabama has received plenty of attention over the last five years thanks to the high level of football play from both the University of Alabama and Auburn University.

The two schools competed in the last five NCAA D-I National Championship games and won four.

The success of the two schools should come as no surprise considering the state of Alabama produced the most D-I signees per capita from 20072014, according to recruiting.scout. com.

Football head coach Bobby Wallace said the great high school talent in the state of Alabama has helped UNA in recruiting.

“It’s a trickling down effect,” he said. “The D-I gets their guys and if more guys are going D-I, then that means more are going to FCS and then there are more available for D-II. There is no question that we have guys

that can play anywhere in the country.”

Athletic Director Mark Linder said football is definitely part of the culture in Alabama.

“I haven’t read the report, but it doesn’t surprise me,” he said.

“Alabama is well-known in the region and in the nation for its love for the game of football. That’s nothing new.

“I was born in Alabama, lived here for 16 years and then went to Nebraska to finish my high school career. They have a love for the sport of football, but here there is just a different passion for the game.”

Wallace said the significance of football is a reason why so many high school players receive college scholarships.

“The emphasis and importance of high school football (in Alabama) has helped create the situation of a high amount of signees,” he said. “Not only are the coaches trained well, but there’s also a lot of money put into high school programs. You can see that in the facilities of Florence,

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Wallace said the importance of high school football in the South compared to the North is the main reason there are more people signing D-I scholarships per capita.

”

THE D-I GETS THEIR GUYS AND IF MORE GUYS ARE GOING D-I, THEN THAT MEANS MORE ARE GOING TO FCS AND THEN THERE ARE MORE AVAILABLE FOR D-II.

BOBBY WALLACE

HEAD COACH

“High school and college football is important to the people in towns across the South,” he said. “Whereas up North, the NFL rules.”

Wallace experienced the difference between the importance of college football and pro sports firsthand when he coached at Temple University in Philadelphia from 1998-2005.

“The Philadelphia newspaper would have an article about Penn Sate every Sunday after a game during the season, Sunday after the spring game and the day after signing day,” he said. “The Penn State article would be somewhere on the back page and the rest of the paper had something on the Philadelphia Fliers, Eagles, 76ers or Phillies everyday.

“All you have to do is pick up a paper in Alabama and everyday 365 days of the year there is something in there about Alabama and Auburn.”

Brooks High School football coach and former UNA player Jerry Hill has coached in Alabama for 31 years and said he has benefited from the great players in-state.

“I’ve been very fortunate to coach so many high level players that have gone on to play in college and to the NFL as well,” Hill said. “I’ve also played alongside and against so many great players in this state.

“And as you can see, Alabama and Auburn have dominated college football and most of their players are from the state of Alabama, too.”

UNA running back and Florence native Lamonte Thompson said Alabama is simply a football state and people are encouraged to play it at a young age.

“I’ve been playing football since I was six and the love of college football down here influenced me to play,” he said. “The love of football here can’t be matched by any other state.”

Lions quarterback and Tuscaloosa native Luke Wingo said he is not surprised to see the state of Alabama producing so many college players.

“I always hear from people outside the state say that Alabama has the best high school football,” he said. “It’s definitely part of the culture here and that’s why the competition is so high.”

Wallace said another possibility for so many D-I signees is because Alabama is a rural state.

“In big cities they have parks and basketball courts but not much room for playing football,” he said. “When I was at Temple there was a high school that had to practice on a patch of grass down the street that was 20 yards by 30 yards.”

Wallace said there are great athletes in the northeast, but they may choose to play another sport instead of football.

“There they may choose to play basketball or hockey instead,” he said.

“Here, athletes are so influenced by the SEC they choose football.”

HEROES

SECTION B

Nov. 6, 2014• The Flor-Ala

O R E E S H

2B Heroes

Family

Nov. 6, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

&

Moms

Dads photos by KAITLIN DOUGLASS I Student Photographer

Married international students Fadil and Atikah Al-Hassan (left) balance raising their son, Rawad, and keeping up in the classroom. Jhoana Patlan (middle) said raising her daughter Leah and being the President of the Hispanic Organization is a difficult task she could not accomplish without the help of her family. Senior basketball player Mekena Randle (right) plays with her son Bryce by the Harrison Plaza fountain.

Students discuss college challenges, raising children MARI WILLIAMS Life Editor life@florala.net

Real-life heroes do not come in capes and tights like the movies portray. No, most heroes are hidden under mom jeans and tell dad jokes all day long.

Many undergraduate students put on their imaginary cape and tights every day to work toward earning a degree while raising children.

Senior basketball player Mekena Randle said she always knew she would return to college after she had her son, Bryce.

“I knew not going back wasn’t an option,” she said. “After I had the baby, I told my mom I had to get back to school. I had to provide for my son.”

Only 50 percent of teen moms receive a high school diploma by the age of 22, according to the CDC. Senior Jhoana Patlan said she also knew she would eventually earn a degree.

“Even when I found out I was pregnant, I never stopped thinking about going to college,” she said. “I thought even if it wasn’t then, it would be later on. It was the fact that nowadays you need a college degree.”

A study conducted by the U.S. Department of Education found young adults with a

bachelor’s degree earned a median of $46,900 while those with only a high school credential earned $30,000.

Although married international students Fadil and Atikah Al-Hassan said they find it hard separating homework and taking care of their son Rawad, weekends are always spent with family.

“The weekend is just for family,” AlHassan said. “(It’s hard to separate) time and schedule for what time you can study, what time you can sleep and what time you can have for family.”

Patlan is president of the Hispanic Culture Organization and also responsible for keeping up with class work and raising her young daughter, Leah.

“It’s doable, but it’s hard because I feel like there is so much that I’m missing out on,” she said. “There are some things with my school schedule and my work schedule that I wasn’t able to attend.”

For many students who double as parents, life can be impossible without the help of loved ones.

“My family has really been strong in helping me in everything — financially and supportively — anything I need, they’re here for me,” Randle said. “You need family, friends and people that say they care about you. Without them I know I wouldn’t be able

to do it.”

Patlan said she would also not be in college if it were not for her family and friends.

“I have my hands full,” she said. “I bring her to all of my events and meetings. My friends are a huge support system, too — they love her. If I need to do something they’ll watch her and I’ll do whatever I need to do.”

Often times having a child forces first time parents to grow up.

“He’s (Bryce) caused so much change,” she said. “Not only physically and spiritually but he’s changed a lot of my personality traits that I needed to get rid of. He helped me grow up. I’ve always struggled with patience, but the moment I had him my patience had to grow stronger.”

Although she is young, Randle said she does not regret having a child.

“Of course at first I was like ‘I can’t have a child’,” she said. “I was really scared. Then once I had him I couldn’t see myself not having him.”

Patlan said having a child made her mature much faster.

“At the same time it was a reality check because I was going down a bad path,” she said. “There is no more me anymore, it’s an us now. Everything that I do now is an us.”

HEROES 3B

Nov. 6, 2014 • The Flor-Ala START PUSHING YOURSELF EVEN FURTHER. ST

START YOUR JOURNEY. START DISCOVERING NEW TALENTS.

START MOLDING YOUR STRENGTHS. START BUILDING YOUR CAREER.

START OUT ON TOP.

START AHEAD OF THE CROWD.

START STRONG. SM

There’s strong. Then there’s Army Strong. Many influential government and business leaders started with the help of Army ROTC. When you enroll in Army ROTC at the University of North Alabama, you get hands-on leadership training to give you a strong start after college as an Army Officer. Army ROTC also offers full-tuition scholarships to help pay for your education.

To learn more about scholarship opportunities, contact Rae Atencio at 256-765-4458 or visit us online at goarmy.com/rotc/z271 ©2008. Paid for by the United States Army. All rights reserved.

4B HEROES

Nov. 6, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

MILITARY

Retired veterans discuss life, school after duty KRISTEN GOODE

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Every student at UNA comes with a different background and enters with a unique set of life circumstances which shapes their time on campus. Even with their differences, many of the students can be categorized as freshmen, transfer or veteran students.

Veteran students have life circumstances that vary greatly from the average freshmen or transfer students.

Many of the veteran students are married or in other significant relationships, many have children, and all are older than traditional students, said retired Lt. Col. Wayne

Bergeron, former ROTC Commander and current criminal justice and emergency management professor.

Bergeron said those who are honorably discharged from the Army have a four-year degree paid for, and most have health care and a living stipend as well. Veterans can choose to go anywhere in the U.S. for their degree.

Most of the veteran students at UNA have ties to North Alabama.

Veteran Luis Miranda, a Business Management major, was a paramedic in the Army from 2001-2003. He was stationed stateside in Ft. Louis, Washington.

“For anything I have going on at college, the VA has covered tuition and fees for the entire time

I’ve been in school, and I’m grateful,” Miranda said. “The VA has done nothing but take care of me from day one. “ Air Force veteran Toby Clark said Veterans Affairs have been equally good to him.

“They kept bugging me, telling me with the Post-9/11 GI Bill they could send me to school,” he said. “I’m getting paid to go to school and even get some money for cost of living. I wouldn’t have come back to school without that.”

Clark served as a helicopter door runner beginning in 1987, working on special projects in Panama, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Bosnia, Sarajevo and several areas in Central and South America.

“I’ve been out for 15 years and I’m used to life, but it’s really different,”

he said. “It’s difficult to describe emotionally when you come back to school and some people say they support the military and yet disagree with it. I just want to be respected.”

Bergeron said he advises students to seriously think before they speak to a veteran.

“Resist the urge to thank them for their service,” he said. “Not because it’s not important to do that. Most folks that served [did so] because they wanted to.”

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

MEDIA

Journalism hero reports crime, promotes community safety ASHLEY REMKUS

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Parents and those in the armed forces are who typically come to mind with the thought of “heroes.”

For those armed with pencils, notebooks, cameras and multiple phones, being a hero often goes unnoticed.

“You ever watch those crime shows on TV — “NCIS,” “Law and Order” or something like that? I kind of do what they do without a gun and a badge,” said Tom Smith, crime reporter for TimesDaily. “I’ve seen a lot of things and done a lot of things most people haven’t.”

Smith began his career at TimesDaily in the mail room in 1972. In 1990 he began working in the newsroom.

He has solely covered the paper’s crime beat that includes 39 law enforcement and emergency management agencies in northwest Alabama and southern Tennessee since 2005.

“There’s an element — good, bad or indifferent — in our society that’s going to be involved in unlawful things,” Smith said. “Most people are generally good, and they want to keep that element out of their lives and out of their homes.”

He said reporting crime is important because an informed public is one that can protect itself from harm.

“If there’s a guy who knocks on my

door one night and my wife’s there and she goes to see who it is, she won’t open it if she’s seen them in the paper before,” he said.

TimesDaily Lifestyles Editor Teri Thornton, who has worked with Smith for more than 30 years, said he thinks of every community member like his own family.

“Tom has such compassion,” Thornton said. “He loves his family— he’s a family man. Tom’s one of the few people I would trust with my life.”

Thornton said while many people are bogged down by the stresses of the job, Smith maintains a positive outlook.

“It’s always amazing to me that Tom has such amazing Christian values, and you would think someone covering the crime beat would start to doubt his faith,” she said. “It’s even become stronger. It helps him dealing with the victims of crime. It’s not an easy job to talk to their family members, especially in a murder case.”

Smith said he does it because the public has a right and a need to know what is happening in their communities.

“Would you want a murderer living next to you?” he said. “Would you want someone who was convicted of a sex crime living next to your family, especially if you’ve got small children?”

Smith has also become a respected member of the community among law

enforcement officers and sources.

“He’s one of the most trustworthy people I know,” said Colbert County Sheriff Ronnie May. “I would trust him with any case I’ve got.”

May said anytime his department has needed the media’s help in finding a suspect, Smith has provided any assistance he could.

“In any investigation where I needed certain things put out for help, he was easy to talk with and seemed to understand the significance of what we were doing,” May said. “He’s accurate in what he reports.

He’s not looking to blow something out of proportion or use exaggerated terms to describe something.”

photos courtesy of Tom Smith

Smith encourages his grandson to read the newspaper, even if it is the “funny pages” (left). At work (right), Smith frequently holds two phones to expedite his research process.

HEROES 5B

Nov. 6, 2014• The Flor-Ala

MAN ON THE STREET

Who is your hero ?

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XPW\W[ Ja

OLIVIA HARTUNG

MEGGY DE JONG

”

MY DAD. OUT OF HIS SIX BROTHERS, HE WAS THE ONLY ONE THAT DIDNʼT JOIN THE ARMY. HE HAS BEEN IN SCHOOL MOST OF HIS LIFE AND IT INSPIRED ME TO COME TO COLLEGE.

ALTON COLVIN JUNIOR

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;\]LMV\ ?ZQ\MZ WPIZ\]VO(]VI ML]

”

”

MY MOTHER BECAUSE SHE ALWAYS WORKS HARD AND HAS A VERY GENEROUS HEART. SHE IS A GOOD CHRISTIAN ROLE MODEL.

YVON CHOUINARD, THE GUY THAT FOUNDED PATAGONIA. HEʼS MY HERO BECAUSE HE TRULY BELIEVES IN AUTHENTICISM AND HE SAYS ʻLIFE IS MORE ABOUT THE JOURNEY, NOT SO MUCH THE DESTINATION.ʼ

KAYLA HACKER

FRESHMAN

DYLAN SHAW SENIOR

”

”

MY AUNT BECAUSE SHE HAS THE SAME VALUES AND THE SAME PASSIONS AS ME. THE THINGS SHE DOES REALLY INSPIRE ME AND I CAN FOLLOW IN HER FOOTSTEPS.

MY FAMILY FRIEND RUTH STAFOR BECAUSE SHE BATTLED WITH BREAST CANCER FOR THE MAJORITY OF HER LIFE. THE RESILIENCE SHE SHOWED WAS INSPIRING.

KAYLA LAND

SIERRA ELSTON

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6B HEROES

Nov. 6, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

ENTERTAINMENT

Students, experts enjoy Marvel over DC JASMINE FLEMING 7VTQVM -LQ\WZ WVTQVM(NTWZITI VM\

Marvel Comics and DC Comics, the top two providers of comic book heroes and their film and TV adaptations, are often compared by fans. According to students and experts, Marvel is more enjoyable.

Pegasus Records employee and UNA student Austin DeCourley said it is difficult to compare the company’s comic books because they are so different.

“DC goes for a darker approach in everything,” DeCourley said. “Marvel puts more humor in its stories. Marvel is more presented in a fantasy sort of way, and DC takes on a more realistic approach.”

Jeremy Edwards, a comic book enthusiast from Walnut, Mississippi, disagreed. He said Marvel Comics has the best heroes because they are realistic and grounded.

“Marvel is set in real cities, and their characters have flaws,” he said. “Iron Man was an alcoholic, and Spider-Man was a nerd. DC didn’t begin having flawed characters until after Marvel did.”

When looking at movies, Marvel is the winner, DeCourley said.

“If you look at sales, the Marvel movies do well,” he said. “The only DC movies that do well are the “Dark

Night” movies. The “Green Lantern” movie did terrible, and “Man of Steel” didn’t do that well.”

Junior Kamilah Abernathy said Marvel movies are enjoyed more because of their simplicity.

“DC has too many heroes, too many sidekicks and too many story lines,” she said.

“Marvel has a pretty clear and simple setup. The characters are more straightforward.”

When comparing TV series, DC Universe wins out, DeCourley said.

“DC does TV better because the shows “Arrow” and “(The) Flash” are enjoyed by audiences,” he said. “People also really enjoy “Gotham.” The Marvel show, “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.”, isn’t as well-liked.”

Cody McGowan, a junior, said DC’s TV shows make them a better option than Marvel.

“There is a lot of variety in the shows, and they are all unique and interesting.

DC has so many story lines that you can get into,” he said.

Freshman Trevor Kurzhal said more people enjoy Marvel because of its highly-rated films.

?

“I think most people prefer Marvel because their most popular stuff has been put in the movie format,” he said. “People view comics and graphic novels as something nerdy and weird. If it’s brought into cinema, a new light is shined on it, and it can be expanded to a new audience.”

Darren Rich, a long-time comic book fan from Glen, Mississippi, said Marvel is more successful because of character development.

“Marvel establishes individual heroes and then puts them in a team environment, whereas DC is doing teams and then establishes their individuality,” he said.

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HEROES 7B

Nov. 6, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

Who’s the real MVP? ” ”

ANNA GRACE USERY

DOOZYʼS FOR BEING OPEN ON SUNDAYS.

OBAMA FOR BRINGING DOWN THOSE GAS PRICES.

”

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ASHLEY REMKUS NEWS EDITOR

PEOPLE WHO POINT TO THEIR PARKING SPOT WHEN THEYʼRE ABOUT LEAVE SO YOU CAN TAKE IT.

”

BURGER KING FOR SELLING 10 CHICKEN NUGGETS FOR $1.49.

JORDAN FERRELL

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

DUSTIN POLLARD SPORTS EDITOR

THE FLOR-ALA STAFF NTWZITI(]VI ML]

”

PARENTS AND FRIENDS WHO LET YOU USE THEIR NETFLIX ACCOUNT WITHOUT PAYING.

”

THE PROFESSOR WHO POSTPONES THE TEST BECAUSE HE KNOWS HIS STUDENTS ARENʼT READY.

” ”

PEOPLE WHO MOVE OUT OF THE WAY WHEN THEY SEE YOU POWER-WALKING TO CLASS.

STARBUCKS FOR HAVING THE BEST HOT CHOCOLATE.

KALI DANIEL

MANAGING EDITOR

SHILO CUPPLES

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

MARI WILLIAMS LIFE EDITOR

JASMINE FLEMING ONLINE EDITOR

8B EXTRA

Nov. 6, 2014 • The Flor-Ala

SOCIAL MEDIA OF THE WEEK

s

r Experienc Peer Discussion Panel

Monday, November 10, 11 am to 12 pm Tuesday, November 11, 5-6 pm Friday, November 14, 2-3 - pm Panels meet in Commons 330

Attend fo orr a chance o e to win a $250 B Book ook Scholarship Schola arship, compliments of Student Financial Services and the UNA Bookstore e.

, here’s your chance to talk with UNA upperclassmen about making the transition from first semester to second semester. What gets easier? What gets more difficult?

How do you prepare?

Discussion Panelissts: Dayton Tenney y JJose ose Figeroa-Cifuentes Figeroa Cifuen ntes Carson Hagood d Kate Partain Drake Vaccaro Haleigh Scott R Rosmely l Hernand H Hernandez dez Nicole Gallups Darien Pippenss …and YOU!

Co-ssponsored by the First-Year Exp p perience erience Program, University y Success Cen nter, Enrollment Managemen nt, and Stud d dent ent Government Associatio on