February 22

Black History Month p. 2 - 5 Learn about 2018 Miss UNA p. 6 WriterĘźs series: Joy Harjo p. 9 Football schedule p. 11 Accountability for SGA p. 13 February 22, 2018 Vol. 86, Issue 11

2 BLACK HISTORY MONTH

BLACK PANTHER POUNCES

Film stands as entertaining entry in Marvel franchise TYLER HARGETT Life Editor life@florala.net

When hearing about the next film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, one assumes it will be a hit. “Black Panther” has went further than that.

Besides being one of the MCU’s highest grossing films on opening weekend, it also currently possesses a 97 percent positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the highest of any film in the franchise.

While the film may not live up to the hype for everyone, it certainly has great elements for most people to appreciate.

Behind the suit is T’Challa, with actor Chadwick Boseman returning in the role in less of an origin story and more of a chance to shine. However, the spotlight is not always on him, as the film boasts a cast of colorful supporting characters.

Actress Letitia Wrights portrays T’Challa’s younger sister, Shuri, who designs Black Panther’s technological weapons. Think of her as the Q to his James Bond, but with more humor and pop culture references. One never knows what she will say when she opens her mouth, but they are usually eager to hear it.

Actor Andy Serkis returns in his role of the villainous Ulysses Klaue from “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” albeit with a bigger role. He shines in every

scene he is in, and he is not even doing motion capture work like his other films.

However, Klaue is not the film’s biggest baddie. Instead, it is Erik Stevens, with actor Michael B. Jordan in the role, a soldier who wishes to take the throne away from T’Challa.

Many critics singled out his performance as one of the MCU’s best villains yet. This is understandable, as his actions, while not morally right, will resonate with audiences, particularly African-Americans.

Stevens wants to give Wakanda’s technology to African-Americans around the world to help them fight their oppressors. This message stands out in modern times, where racial tensions have continued even past desegregation.

The movie also discusses what a technologically-advanced country can do to help others. Whether intentional or not, this sounds similar to the relationship between nations today.

The effects, like other Marvel movies, are still great, especially in Wakanda. Though, there is also eye candy to be found in the film’s costumes, with the Wakandans’ clothes and accessories drawing similarities to real African tribes.

Despite this, the film is not without its lower points, as some audiences may see fault in some story elements.

The film gives Stevens one of the

strongest introductions to an MCU villain yet, with his intelligence and intimidation already on display.

However, he does not fully encounter Black Panther until later in the film.

DYLAN BAKER | Graphic Designer

While there are entertaining scenes between each of his appearances, it still takes a while for the film to bring Stevens to the forefront.

When it does, he begins to have a bigger role and is not blunt about telling the Wakandans exactly what he wants.

From here, however, the story falls victim to a cliché: the hero facing the villain, seemingly dying and coming

back later to finish the job. While this is not a big problem, it was still irritating to see Marvel using an established formula.

Overall, while “Black Panther” did not blow me away like it did others, I still consider it a solid entry in the MCU. With continued use of great effects, acting and fight sequences, I give the film four stars out of five. Maybe, if given time, I can appreciate it even more.

Soundtrack proves a modern collaborative masterpiece more excited.

Hip-hop artist Kendrick Lamar and the legendary Top Dawg Entertainment record label produced the album, with Lamar also performing on five of the 14 tracks and credited as a writer.

DYLAN BAKER | Graphic Designer

CODY CAMPBELL Associate News Editor news@florala.net Marvel’s “Black Panther” is one of this year’s most anticipated films, and its soundtrack will get fans even

Featuring some of today’s iconic hip-hop stars, such as SZA, 2 Chainz, Khalid, Future, The Weeknd and Schoolboy Q, one would find it difficult to listen to the soundtrack and not find a voice they recognize.

The tone of the album is very

reminiscent of Lamar’s sound, with the complex beat patterns and experimental leading melodies being signatures of his past albums.

The production is the album’s highlight. Lamar is known for his original and mind-bending psychedelic take on the hip-hop genre, and the “Black Panther” soundtrack is no exception.

Even in the tracks without Lamar, it is easy to hear his influence layered into the offbeat compositions and innovative beats.

However, even though the production value is amazing, it does fall short on a few of its performances.

The third track on the album, “X,” features a solid beat, but the lyrics in the verses feel generic by focusing on the overused ideas of money and women. Most of the rest of the album seems to have a deeper meaning than what “X” delivers.

It is hard to choose a favorite track from the “Black Panther” soundtrack, but two songs stand out from the rest.

The fourth track, “The Ways,”

featuring Khalid and Swae Lee, is an entrancing song packed with emotion and a catchy chorus that can easily get stuck in listeners’ heads.

The album’s final track, “Pray for Me,” by The Weeknd and Lamar is just as catchy but emphasizes a driving and powerful synth melody layered with The Weeknd’s soothing vocals and Lamar’s gritty rap verses.

Overall, the “Black Panther” soundtrack is the perfect accompaniment to Marvel’s sure-to-be blockbuster hit. I give the soundtrack four out of five stars for its excellent blend of high quality production and the collaborative perfection of some of the biggest modern hip-hop artists.

I can only imagine what sounds would come next if a sequel is made.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 3

Courtesy of W.C. Handy Music Festival’s Facebook

Jazz musician W.C. Handy plays the trumpet. When his song “Memphis Blues” became the first commercially successful blues song, he earned the name “The Father of the Blues.”

Florence native paves way for blues music NATALEE BEE

Social Media Coordinator

online@florala.net

Locals know the annual W.C. Handy Festival as the week long event where jazz and blues music fills the streets of downtown Florence, but not all know the man who this event honors.

William Christopher “W.C.” Handy was an African-American composer who most know as “The Father of the Blues.” Handy was born in Florence in 1873 where his interest in music began.

“When I was no more than 10, I could catalogue almost any sound that

came to my ears,” Handy said in his autobiography, “Father of the Blues.”

Handy’s father did not support his interest in secular music. So, when he later purchased a cornet, he kept it secret from his parents.

Handy also would listen to black field workers sing secular songs while working during his free time.

“I think America concedes that (true American music) has sprung from the Negro,” Handy said. “You’ve got to appreciate the things that come from the art of the Negro and from the heart of the man farthest down.”

Despite his father’s disapproval, he

went to study music in college at Fisk University and left home to tour with a minstrel show.

Handy first encountered early blues and jazz music while on tour. After he was done touring, he moved to Memphis where he began incorporating blues tunes into written arrangements.

At the time, Handy was a bandleader but wanted to become a songwriter.

So, he self-published his first song, “Memphis Blues.”

This song earned Handy his title of “The Father of the Blues” for becoming the first commercially successful blues

song. However, he sold the song for only $100 at the time and had fallen victim to exploitative business practices.

Handy did not want to have this happen again, so he formed a partnership with songwriter Harry Pace to retain ownership to his songs.

They formed the Pace & Handy Music Company in 1912.

Handy published his next song, “St. Louis Blues,” a couple of years later, along with Pace. This song was even more popular than the first and begun his string of hit releases.

To read more about Handy, visit florala.net.

5 African-American artists impacting music industry MONDAY SANDERSON Editor-in-Chief editor@florala.net From the creation of jazz, blues and hiphop, the influence of African-American artists in the music industry has been around for many decades.

When some people think about iconic old-school African-American musicians, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Nat King Cole and others come to mind. While many people also think of Michael Jackson, Beyoncé and Kanye West as being iconic musicians, they will not appear on this list.

The artists on this list gained popularity after 2010 with their musical style and creativity enriching the music industry.

SZA Since the popularity of her song “Love

Galore” featuring Travis Scott, SZA has been making a name for herself with her neo soul sound.

While she did not become well-known until 2017, SZA released her first EP in 2012. Her first two EPs led her to signing with Top Dawg Entertainment in 2013.

SZA’s sounds are unique with their mixture of soul, hip-hop and rhythm and blues. The combination of her melodic voice and the beats she utilizes create very relaxing and soulful music.

Chance the Rapper In 2011, Chance the Rapper released his first mixtape. Two years later, he began gaining recognition with his mixtape “Acid Rain.”

At the 2017 Grammy Awards, he won best new artist, best rap album and best rap performance, making history as the first musician to win a Grammy without

selling physical copies of his music.

The first song I heard from him was “Juice.” This song and its video showed a fun and relaxed side to Chance. This style of his shows in his other songs and makes listening to him very enjoyable.

Kendrick Lamar Since the release of his album “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City” in 2012, Kendrick Lamar has been making splashes in the music industry.

With his potent messages and invigorating beats, his music is powerful and memorable.

Not only is Lamar a good rapper, but he is also a good producer. One example is his production of the “Black Panther” album soundtrack. To read more about it, go to page 2.

Janelle Monae Those who enjoy the music of Erykah

Badu and Outkast will love the sound of Janelle Monae.

Her first song, “Tightrope,” released in 2010, embodies her overall sound, which is fun and funky.

While this sound is heard throughout her songs, their messages range from the empowerment of minorities to looking at what would happen in the apocalypse (answer: everyone would dance).

Donald Glover/Childish Gambino My favorite from this list, Donald Glover, has been around since 2006 as a writer for the comedy “30 Rock,” but he did not release his first EP until 2011 as Childish Gambino.

Since Glover is a writer and a comedian, most of his music contains great word play and flowing lyrics. Combined with his catchy beats, this helps make his music a great listen.

4 BLACK HISTORY MONTH

African-Americans play vital role in creation of step HANNAH ZIMMER Managing Editor managing@florala.net This year’s Step Sing may have left some readers curious as to how step dancing got its start.

Step dancing, or stepping, is the use of the body as an instrument to create rhythms and sounds through footsteps, claps and chants, according to the website of step dance company Step Afrika.

Stepping draws inspiration from Gumboot, an African foot dance that can be traced back many decades to miners in South Africa who stepped instead of using drums since authorities banned the percussion instruments.

During the Slave Trade, AfricanAmericans used stepping as a means for secretive communication since slave owners monitored their conversations closely, according to Our Pastimes’ website.

Over time, step dancing transformed from a form of communication into entertainment.

Senior Brenita Softley is the vice president of Alpha Kappa Alpha,

a sorority in the National PanHellenic Council that performs step dances.

“Stepping is a dance that all NPHC members do to celebrate our unity that we have amongst each other,” Softley said.

Softley said stepping became popular in the early 1900s within NPHC fraternities and sororities because the dances created a “safe haven” for African-Americans that was missing in the U.S. during that time.

AKA and the other NPHC sororities and fraternities perform step routines during the week of homecoming every year.

Softley said every organization in NPHC has their own week in which each sorority and fraternity hosts several events. During these weeks, she said many organizations step at the events. AKA’s featured week is April 15 – 21 this year, and they will step, as well.

Not only does stepping stay relevant through its tradition in black Greek-letter organizations, but the dancing style also continues to leave its mark, or one could say its

stomp, due to its emergence in pop culture.

For example, movies such as “Stomp The Yard” and “Drumline” feature stepping.

Most recently, Netflix released a film called “Step Sisters.” The movie’s plot revolves around a black student who teaches a white sorority how to step, proving that the dance transcends race barriers.

At UNA, other organizations such as National Panhellenic Conference sororities and fraternities, the Honors College and the music department participate in stepping in addition to NPHC organizations.

Sophomore Baylee Caldwell said she is glad that the dancing style is not limited to one group of people at UNA, and people from different backgrounds can connect through step.

“Originally, stepping only really happened in the black community,” she said. “It’s really cool to see that step has expanded to other people.”

All the students who enjoy intricate stepping should thank African Americans for introducing the dance to the world.

Courtesy of Pixabay

What does Black history month mean to you?

“If there’s one month of the year that we can really focus on this group of people that are pushed to the side and aren’t given nearly as much advantages as they should be, then I think that’s really great.”

“Black History Month represents a month that’s very prideful to my culture, and it enlightens a lot of us on what we’ve gone through to reach the level of equality that we are now attaining.”

Sophomore- Caitlin Waits

Junior- Greg Wright

“I feel that having an entire month dedicated to Black History is bringing light to a group of people who have been repressed and are currently still fighting for social issues that most people don’t see.”

“I think it’s important that we have (Black History Month) because it’s good to reflect on the good things that the AfricanAmerican community has contributed to our modern society.”

Junior- Cayman Gardner

Senior- Kelton Lang

“I think it’s a good thing.

It helps everyone to learn more about black history, and I think that’s a good thing for everybody to know.”

“It’s about the individuals that paved the way before us. People like Martin Luther King Jr., Booker T. Washington and even Malcolm X, even though he was a little militant.”

Junior- Savannah Miller CALEB COLE | Staff Photographer

Senior- Devin Maston Information compiled by Associate News Editor Cody Campbell

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 5

Former student led way for diversity CIERA GOLLIVER News Editor news@florala.net UNA is filled with Resident Student Organizations devoted to diversity, but none of that would be possible without the first African-American student.

Wendall Wilkie Gunn enrolled at UNA, then Florence State Teachers College, in 1963.

Gunn, a Tuscumbia native, had to receive a court order to enroll at the university.

After receiving the court order,

he transferred to Florence State Teachers College from Tennessee State University.

He graduated in 1965 with degrees in math and chemistry. Some of his achievements include receiving the university Physics Achievement Award.

“The fact that it happened between ’63 and ’65, a time with a lot of turmoil, and the fact that my matriculation happened without incident is a testament to something,” Gunn said in a 2013 university press release.

“Looking back on it, it makes me think there was something special about the

area.”

Gunn spoke at the 2013 convocation to celebrate the 50 year anniversary of desegregation at UNA. This event took place exactly 50 years since the day Gunn first registered as a Florence State Teachers College student.

He also spoke as an honorary guest speaker at the spring 2017 graduation where he received his honorary doctorate.

In his speech, he said when he first enrolled at Florence State Teachers College, there was virtually no backlash.

He said he was proud to see the

“

campus unaffected by disputes about race relations occurring throughout the country “This is my UNA,” Gunn said.

“This is the UNA that I love.”

Since his graduation, Gunn went on to found his own company, Gunn Solutions, and serve as an assistant for policy development under President Ronald Reagan.

The UNA board of trustees recently passed a resolution to rename the University Commons to the Wendall W. Gunn University Commons. There will be a ceremony March 14 at 5 p.m. in front of the Commons.

Looking back on it, it makes me think there was something very special about this area.

Wendall Wilkie Gunn | UNA’s first African- American student

Courtesy of the University of North Alabama

Wendall Wilkie Gunn was the first African-American student to attend UNA, then known as Florence State Teachers College. He has been the guest speaker on campus for multiple events, including graduations and convocation.

6 NEWS

2018 Miss UNA MELANIE HODGES | Chief Photographer

Junior Haley Gilbertson stands as the 2018 Miss UNA. She will compete for the title of Miss Alabama June 6-9 at Samford University.

Behind the scenes with royalty CIERA GOLLIVER News Editor news@florala.net

The title of Miss UNA comes with many responsibilities, but Haley Gilbertson said she is excited to tackle all the job entails.

Gilbertson is a junior majoring in English literature with a minor in professional writing.

Junior Rachel Shockey said Gilbertson is one of the most determined people she has met.

Shockey said she knew she and Gilbertson would be life-long friends because of how loyal and kind-hearted she is.

“Anyone who knows Haley Gilbertson would agree that she is an absolute treasure because of the way she loves and supports those around her,” Shockey said.

Gilbertson currently works at the UNA Writing Center and teaches dance. In the past, she was involved in multiple extra-curricular activities, such as being a member of the dance team and serving on the University Program Council branch of the Student Government Association.

Gilbertson said she became involved with the Miss UNA pageant her freshman year at UNA because of her love of dancing and performing.

As Miss UNA, her platform is “Live your best life with diabetes,” a cause which raises awareness for diabetic prevention.

Gilbertson said she chose this platform because her mother recently discovered she has type two diabetes.

Junior Lila Walker said Gilbertson

has a personality which makes it difficult to be sad or bored around her.

Walker said Gilbertson is full of energy and always tries to make everyone smile.

“She’s always looking at the bright side, the silver lining,” Walker said. “She is a glass half full kind of gal, and everyone knows it.”

Shockey said one of her favorite memories is a trip she took with Gilbertson to Nashville because of the fun they had exploring the city and the company they provided each other.

Shockey and Walker said any trip taken with Gilbertson is full of laughter and fun memories.

Hannah Gilbertson, Haley Gilbertson’s sister, said her sister is wise beyond her years and gives great advice.

“What’s unique about Haley is that she is more beautiful on the inside than on the outside, which is pretty unbelievable,” Hannah Gilbertson said. “She has the most whimsical beautiful personality and such a giving heart.”

Hannah Gilbertson said her and her sister would stay up late on school nights to give each other makeovers and try new hairstyles. Her sister even did her makeup when she won Miss Arab High School.

“She is always laughing and keeps others smiling,” Hannah Gilbertson said. “Her faith is strong and radiates God’s light in everything she does with beauty and grace.”

Haley Gilbertson will compete for the title of Miss Alabama June 6-9 at Samford University.

NEWS 7 ROTC program offers cadets world experience HUNTER ANDERSON Associate Sports Editor sports@florala.net The U.S. Army believes education is more than what is learned in the classroom, according to the ROTC website. This is the founding idea for the Cultural Understanding and Language Proficiency program.

CULP is designed to give Army ROTC Cadets the opportunity to not only see the world, but experience it. Each year, exceptional cadets are given the chance to travel to one of more than 20 countries and immerse themselves in its culture.

UNA CULP Cadet Josie Lott said she had the opportunity to visit Guatemala with CULP. “CULP isn’t really an academic major based program, but if I had to say how it affected me as a business major, it would be that Guatemala gave me a better perspective of how small the world really is,” Lott said.

Another ROTC student, senior Victoria Moore, visited Liberia on her CULP trip.

“Seeing poverty first-hand made me grateful for the things I have here in

America,” Moore said. “I know that our infrastructure and government systems are not perfect, but I’ve learned to be appreciative of the many luxuries we can enjoy here in the states and the security of our Armed Forces that we can trust in.”

She said visiting other countries opened her eyes to other cultures.

“Most people when they think of African countries think only of poverty.

Liberia has a very unique history and people group that love Americans and appreciate the aid the U.S. gives to their country,” Moore said. “My experience in Liberia inspired me to travel more outside the states.”

Cadets chosen will go on one of three different venues during travel: host nation military-to-military exchange, humanitarian service or educational trips entailing total cultural immersion.

Whatever the chosen students do, they will do it for approximately one month, including a five-day soldier readiness process, according to the ROTC informational website.

For more information regarding this program, contact the ROTC offices in the Wesleyan Hall Annex.

Courtesy of Victoria Moore

Senior Victoria Moore went to Liberia as a part of Cultural Understanding and Language Program. This program is designed to give ROTC cadets the opportunity to experience the world.

DYLAN BAKER | Graphic Designer

The Flor-Ala staff brings home conference awards STAFF REPORT editor@florala.net Members of The Flor-Ala’s editorial and photography staffs attended the 2018 Southeast Journalism Conference in Searcy, Arkansas and returned to Florence with awards.

The conference, which ran Feb. 15 – 17 at Harding University, had 412 entries from 30 schools including instate universities such as University of Alabama, Auburn University and

Samford University.

The Flor-Ala came away with three awards, including eighth place in the best college newspaper category of the Best of the South awards, out of 22 entries.

“While this is a couple of places down from last year, I believe that coming in the top 10 is amazing,” said Editor-inChief Monday Sanderson. “We have a great photography and writing staff, and with new people coming in, I see many new and inventive ideas entering the publication. I hope that we can continue

improving and eventually make it back to one of the top five positions.”

Individual Best of the South winners from The Flor-Ala were Sanderson with a second-place award in the editorial op-ed writing competition out of 31 entries and Graphic Designer David J. San Miguel in the news graphic designer category with a second-place award out of seven entries.

Sanderson submitted editorials about the university’s conflict with the Florence Board of Education, students

self-educating themselves on black history and the importance of food pantries during the holiday season.

“I’m glad that I won, but I want us to push to get more awards as a collective,” San Miguel said.

San Miguel’s work included a piece on white-washing and the game of the week logo.

Life Editor Tyler Hargett and Diorama Sports Editor Sierra Hill represented the Student Media at the conference.

8 NEWS 1 in 3 people experience sexual assault DYLAN BAKER | Graphic Designer

Information from Love and Respect’s website

Women’s Center informs campus about dating violence CHANDLER MORDECAI Student Writer mmordecai@una.edu The Women’s Center at UNA brings dating violence awareness to campus through sponsored events and informational pamphlets.

February is Dating Violence Awareness Month, and the Women’s Center offers many resources for students and faculty to ensure their safety and success.

“Dating violence awareness is as important on college campuses as it is anywhere,” said Women’s Center

Coordinator Emily Kelley. “In this particular day and age, students need to be aware of their surroundings (and) who they are associating with, as well as where they are going, especially on dates.”

Nearly one in three college women report experiencing violent and abusive dating behaviors, and 58 percent of students do not know how to help someone in an abusive relationship, according to the organization Love is Respect’s national survey.

“I think both physical and emotional violence are present on campus whether it’s abusing your

partner physically or mentally,” said freshman Maggie Stewart. “It can absolutely affect students’ grades, social lives, self-image and even result in suicide.”

Informational pamphlets detailing signs of abuse and resources for relationship help are available daily in the Women’s Center.

“Title IX, The Women’s Center and the counseling services at UNA make themselves prominent through presentations at Student Orientation, Advising and Registration, within FYE classes and on class syllabi,” Stewart said.

Additionally, the Women’s Center will offer a free workshop for women Feb. 23 in the Guillott University Center from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Power of Women: Rise and Roar! will focus on empowering women to gain their own strength, learn their personality types and assert themselves without using aggression.

“The Women’s Center has many roles,” Kelley said. “One is to educate students, faculty and staff and empower and advocate for women and for men, but particularly women. I hope that women and men will come and avail themselves to our services.”

MONDAY SANDERSON Editor-in-Chief editor@florala.net

to ensure safe passage across areas of campus.

Students can obtain a keychain safety device from the Peace of Mind Company, which provides a one button push notification to UNA Police. When activated, the GPS location information and pertinent info is displayed in UNA Police dispatch to ensure that an officer is quickly dispatched to the location.”

Hill said she takes extra precautions as a female.

“I’m always aware of my surroundings wherever I go,” she said. “Whenever I walk somewhere, I try to walk with a friend or someone I know. If I’m by myself, then I will call someone and stay on the phone with them until I get to where I need to go.”

While these tips are meant to help people protect themselves in in-person situations, students must also consider the role of social media.

“Human traffickers often fish for potential victims through social media sites,” Gillilan said. “It is imperative that students refrain from sharing too much personal information and be responsible when accepted a friend or follower. My advice is that if you do not personally know them and trust them, avoid letting them in.”

SEX TRAFFICKING

In 2017, more than 4,400 cases of human trafficking were reported in the U.S., according to the National Human Trafficking Hotline.

The UNA community became more aware of this issue Feb. 1 when UNA Chief of Police Kevin Gillilan sent an email warning people of a potential sex trafficking ring.

“The University of North Alabama Police Department received a report on (Jan. 31) that students were being approached by a religious organization in shopping areas, parks and on campus,” Gillilan said in the email. “The initial report alleged that the organization involved could possibly be associated with a human trafficking ring and were specifically approaching females.”

Gillilan said UNA Police and other agencies have determined this is a legitimate religious group.

While this instance is only allegations, this does not mean there is no danger of this occurring in Florence.

“There have been a few local cases of human trafficking reported in the Florence area within the last few years,” Gillilan said. “There were at least 37 cases reported in the State of Alabama in 2017.”

People should be aware of cases like these, said senior Karli Hill.

“It’s one of these things that people

know about, but don’t think about it happening here,” she said. “However, it can happen anywhere.”

Students should know of the tactics traffickers use, Gillilan said.

“Traffickers coerce people into forced labor and human trafficking by manipulating and exploiting their victim’s vulnerabilities,” he said. “Traffickers promise inclusion in a group, a highpaying job, a loving relationship, or other new and exciting opportunities. In other cases, they may kidnap victims or use physical violence or substance abuse to control them.”

Gillilan said it is also important for students to know human traffickers can be anyone.

“Often, traffickers share the same national, ethnic or cultural backgrounds as their victim’s,” he said. “Traffickers can be lone individuals or extensive criminal networks. Human traffickers may come from any walk of life making them difficult to identify.”

Students can take different precautions when on and off campus, Gillilan said.

“If anything seems suspicious, they should immediately remove themselves to a place of safety and notify law enforcement. It is also recommended to take a trusted friend along when visiting shopping areas, parks, attending social events, and to always walk in well-lit public areas.

In addition, (UNA police) offer SNAP escorts for students during evening hours

DYLAN BAKER | Graphic Designer

Sex trafficking awareness in Florence

LIFE 9

Poetʼs work celebrates diverse themes

Poetry fans recognize poet Joy Harjo’s work for her themes of heritage, life, feminism and politics. In her poem “She Had Some Horses,” she uses different forms of symbolism, leaving the interpretation up to readers.

DAVID J SAN MIGUEL | Graphic Designer

TYLER HARGETT Life Editor life@florala.net As Alabama begins its bicentennial celebration, the 34th annual UNA Writer Series is bringing in writers to represent the state.

Poet Joy Harjo was the series’ first choice, UNA Writers Series Chair Pamela Kingsbury said.

Harjo, an award-winning poet and musician, will be the guest speaker for the series March 15, where she will read and perform her works.

She previously spoke at the 2009 entry in the Writers Series.

The event will take place in the Guillot University Center’s Performance Center at 11 a.m. A book signing and reception will follow her performance.

Kingsbury said Harjo is a great representative for Alabama because of her interest in the state’s arts, her ancestry and her involvement in civil rights.

Harjo, a member of the Muscogee Nation, has written eight books of poetry using her ancestry, as well as indigenous values and myths, in her work. Because of her writings, many see her as an important part of the 1970s literary Native American Renaissance.

However, Kingsbury said Harjo does not always focus on her ancestry.

“Some of her poems are just about how we live our lives, what it means to be human, what it means to be a citizen of the planet, what our role is and where we fit in nature,” she said.

Her work is also noted for including

themes of feminism and politics.

Besides writing, Harjo also plays saxophone and sings and has released several award-winning CDs. She currently tours with her band, Arrow Dynamics.

She also writes a column in the Muscogee Nation News, is a founding board member of the Native Arts and Cultures Foundation and a professor and chair of excellence in creative writing at the University of Tennessee.

Kingsbury said she was one of Harjo’s students when she taught at the University of New Mexico. “(She) spent a lot of time with us, very much wanted us to do our best work (and) didn’t encourage us to compete with each other, but always compete with ourselves,” she said. “She exposed the classes to a much broader range of writing.”

Kingsbury said her experience and hard work has brought her far in her career as she has continued to evolve as a poet.

“She has worked very hard,” she said. “It’s not just, ‘Oh, it was handed to her.’ She’s been working in poetry at her craft and artistry for over 50 years now.”

Junior Kacey Womack said students should attend the event to celebrate diversity in poets.

“No matter the field being discussed, diversity should be celebrated, and it does not hurt to expand your horizons in it,” she said. “Often times, it is easy to turn a blind eye to diversity, especially when it does not impact your life.

(However), it is important to educate ourselves in all levels of diversity.”

10 LIFE William Shakespeare’s

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL

HAMLET

DAVID J. SAN MIGUEL | Graphic Designer

ANDREA BELK | Staff Photographer

Payton Pruitt, lead singer of local rock band Carver Commodore, takes a break to practice guitar. Based in Florence, the group has performed across the southeastern U.S. and is currently working on their debut album.

Lead singer tells story of local band TYLER HARGETT Life Editor life@florala.net Many music fans know the Shoals’ history with country, blues and Southern rock music. However, one local band is bringing rock ‘n’ roll to the area.

Rock band Carver Commodore is set to begin recording their debut album in March, but their work in music has already begun.

The band is comprised of lead singer/guitarist Payton Pruitt, alumnus Phillip Blevins on rhythm guitar, bass player Daniel Clark and Noah Friedman on drums.

He said the band’s sound draws inspiration from rock groups from the early part of the millennium, such as The White Stripes and The Strokes.

Alex Wittscheck, Mane Room manager and technical director, said the band is one of the greatest Shoalsbased performing acts.

“Carver Commodore is more than just another local rock band,” he said.

“They have polished their performance and mentality, which is slightly uncharacteristic of rock bands in general. It is always great to see a local band or artist that cares about their live show.”

The band’s name comes from Pruitt’s great uncle, who claimed to see an orb of white light come down to him from the sky. Commodore believed this was a sign he would die soon. Three days after becoming a Christian, a car struck and killed him.

Pruitt said the band incorporates Commodore’s story through displaying a man-made orb at their shows.

He said while some of the band’s songs have faith-based themes, the

group is not an exclusively-Christian band.

“We’re not really targeting believers,” he said. “We’re just trying to reach everybody as much as we can. (However), if (our music) leads to talking to somebody about beliefs, that’s great.”

Other songs have featured themes of disrespecting narcissistic bands, a new perspective of the first season of “Stranger Things” and Bilbo Baggins from “The Hobbit.”

Pruitt said despite being in different bands throughout his life, Carver Commodore is the one he wants to use as a career.

“Rock ‘n’ roll is where my heart is anyways, so it’s good to carry that out and pursue that,” he said.

The band began when Pruitt and Blevins met each other through the folk-rock band The Bear and the Bride, of which they were both founding members. After the group broke up, the two went on to form Carver Commodore in September 2016.

“We both grew up loving rock music in general (and) playing guitar since we were 11 or 12, and we, of course, like every kid that plays guitar, wanted to

“

be in a rock and roll band, so it just felt the most natural,” he said.

Pruitt met Clark and Friedman through More Than This, a Gadsdenbased worship band.

The band has since gone on to perform across the southeastern U.S. They released their self-titled debut EP Sept. 22, 2017.

“Where The Bear & the Bride was forthright and direct about matters of life and faith, Carver Commodore kicks down the abstract back door and lets the ghosts inside dance in the backyard as the cicadas pop quarters in the rock ‘n’ roll jukebox,” said the band’s website.

He said music students should not be afraid to stay in Florence after graduation because of its small-town status.

“Some students see (Florence) as a small town that they can’t wait to get out of, but there’s so much going on here for music and for musicians,” he said. “Don’t be afraid to stay here and make it better.”

Carver Commodore’s first 2018 Florence show will be at 116 E Mobile March 16. For more scheduled appearances, visit carvercommodore. com.

Carver Commodore is more than just another local rock band. They have polished their performance and mentality, which is slightly uncharacteristic of rock bands in general.

Alex Wittscheck | Mane Room Manager

‘Hamlet’ has tragedy, comedy, talent MONDAY SANDERSON Editor-in-Chief editor@florala.net Fast-paced music, a minimalistic stage and amazing acting from Aquila Theatre actors worked together to create a powerful performance of William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” in Norton Auditorium.

This story of Hamlet as he attempts to take revenge on his uncle Claudius for the murder of his father is filled with drama and tension.

Before the play even began, the audience experienced eerie and distorted music. While the music played, a silent film version of “Hamlet” was playing on the background screen. This introduction set the atmosphere for the rest of the evening.

When the play did begin, it began with energy and loud sound.

The sound of drums, similar to African beats, filled the auditorium.

The actors ran onto the stage and each began to do different activities. Some were dancing, two held each other in a close embrace and one was dying.

Before the official story started, the company showed the death of Hamlet’s father.

This intensity did not just occur at the start, but it happened throughout the entire play. Whether it was the comedy scenes or the monologues, the actors brought their best.

Since “Hamlet” is a tragedy, there are many death scenes in the play. It began with Hamlet’s father crawling around the stage while dying and ends with him, his mother, Claudius and Laertes lying dead as the lights go out.

This last scene of the play was very powerful because of the music and the action occurring all at once.

While Hamlet is sword fighting with Horatio, Gertrude accidentally drinks poison. These two separate actions culminate together and clash until the audience is left with death.

To read more about the play’s humor, visit florala.net.

SPORTS 11

Football releases 2018 schedule Scoreboard

Feb. 9 - Feb. 19

Softball

MELANIE HODGES | Chief Photographer

The North Alabama football team battles against West Florida Nov. 5, 2016. West Florida is one of the DII opponents UNA will face in the 2018 season.

CIERA GOLLIVER News Editor news@florala.net After a year of anticipation, the North Alabama football team posted the schedule for its first year as a Division I school.

The Lions will have 11 games against six Division I schools and five Division II schools.

UNA will play five games at home and six games on the road. The shortest distance is a 1-hour drive to face in-state rival, Alabama A&M, and the longest is 26 hours away to face Southern Utah in the opening game.

UNA will begin its season Sept. 1 and will play three away games before returning to Braly Stadium Sept. 22 to face Azusa State.

“We’re excited to have a finished schedule, and we’re excited about the team we’re playing in 2018,” said UNA head football coach Chris Willis in a roarlions.com article. “Moving up to the FCS being an independent next year made it challenging to get a schedule.

We’re very happy that we were able to get five home games, and I’m sure our players will be excited about getting to travel to places we don’t normally play like Utah, North Dakota, North Carolina and Texas.”

One of the Lions’ toughest opponents this season will be an away game against North Dakota State. The Bisons have won six of the past seven Football Championship Subdivision national championships and are currently reigning FCS champions.

Senior Zachary Lindsey said it will be interesting to see how the Lions compare against such a well-established team as North Dakota State.

“I think playing big teams like this could benefit them in the long run,” Lindsey said. “Are they completely prepared? No. But it could be a lesson to learn and to test them.”

Although the Lions have a packed schedule against new Division I

opponents, UNA will also face familiar foes from Division II, such as Mississippi College, West Florida and Shorter.

All three of these games will be at home in Braly Stadium.

Midway through the season, the Lions will travel to Campbell University, the only game against a Big South Conference opponent.

Since this is UNA’s first year in Division I, it is unable to fully compete in the BSC, the conference it will play

in for football. The Lions will begin competition in the BSC fall 2019.

The Lions are no strangers to championship games, with 17 conference championships in the Gulf South Conference and three Division II national championships. However, the move to Division I leaves the Lions ineligible for post-season play for the next four years.

To read more about the Lions ‘eligibility, visit florala.net.

Feb. 9 vs. Bellarmine Win, 11-1 Feb. 9 vs. Henderson State Win, 7-2 Feb. 17 vs. Valdosta State Win, 9-2 Feb. 18 vs. Union Win, 5-0 Feb. 18 vs AuburnMontgomery Win, 5-1

Baseball Feb. 9 vs. Nova Southeastern Win, 17-6 Feb. 13 vs. Union Win, 5-1 Feb. 17 vs. Miles College Win, 10-0 Feb. 18 vs. Miles College Win, 6-0

Men’s Basketball Feb. 10 vs. UAH Win, 87-70 Feb. 14 vs. AuburnMontgomery Win, 89-69 Feb. 17 at Valdosta State Loss, 75-98 Games continued at roarlions.com

12 SPORTS

Courtesy of Pixabay

What are your thoughts about the Winter Olympics?

Students who do enjoy Winter Olympics:

Senior- Victoria Krohn

Freshman- Chase Evans

“(I watch) parts of it.”

“I’ve seen some of the figure skating, but briefly in passing.”

“I think the curling is kind of fun to watch, and the ski jumps are always exciting, I think.”

“Out of all of them, if I had the time, I would probably just watch figure skating.”

Freshman- Preslee Powers “I watched the start of it.”

“I really like the skiing. The skiing is always cool, and the ice skating.”

Students who do not enjoy Winter Olympics:

Senior- Sigourney Jackson “No, I don’t watch too much of the Winter Olympics, but I do keep up with some of the results as far as Sean White is concerned because he’s been winning since I was a toddler.”

“Right now, I don’t think that we’re at the stage where there’s a lot of black athletes that are in the Winter Olympics, therefore, we’re not that interested in them.”

Senior- William Ballard “I haven’t watched or heard anything about it at all honestly. I didn’t even now they were going on until one of my teachers mentioned it in class.”

Junior- David Swen “(I do not watch the Olympics) right now, no.”

I don’t really like the sports that are going on right now.”

“I just don’t care about the Olympics. I don’t do sports and stuff like that. I’m more of a sit at home and play video games kind of guy. Not too big into any of that sort of stuff.”

Information compiled by Softball Beat Writer Macie Pigg

HARLEY DUNCAN | Associate News Editor

OPINION 13

Shoals community offers sense of belonging

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

HANNAH ZIMMER Managing Editor managing@florala.net While UNA provides numerous exciting activities, some students think their only opportunities to get involved revolve around campus. However, there are multiple ways to make the Shoals home by visiting off-campus locations.

Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield and Tuscumbia are full of history that make them fun places to live for four years while attending college.

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS DYLAN BAKER DAVID J. SAN MIGUEL JUNIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS EVELYN BECKMAN TAYLOR BAUERMEISTER CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER MELANIE HODGES STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS ANDREA BELK CALEB COLE

COVER PHOTO BY THE FLOR-ALA FILE PHOTO

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

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

McFarland houses dozens of picnic tables, a playground and ideal trees to hammock in. This park is an excellent place to escape the hundreds of people on campus every day.

Furthermore, the Shoals offers several shops for those with a sweet tooth. Among the most popular are Trowbridge’s and Yummies Bakery and Deli.

Trowbridge’s has a large selection of ice cream flavors and the retro shop is a place where one can escape the current day and age.

Yummies Bakery and Deli has delicious sweets of all kinds. One of the most popular items on their menu is their cupcakes.

Unfortunately, UNA does not house any sweet shops, so students must go to an off-campus location like Yummies for their cupcake needs.

Although UNA is a great atmosphere for learning and having fun, there are just some experiences students cannot get on campus.

Part of the college experience is getting to know the place where the school is located. I challenge students to go out into the community and explore the Shoals.

Students should hold SGA accountable with money

CIRCULATION MANAGER ALLEN CHILDERS

ADVISER SCOTT MORRIS

With its rich musical background, the Shoals offers a wide variety of sites for those interested in music.

For example, there is the famous Fame Recording Studios dubbed “the heartbeat of the Muscle Shoals sound,” according to its website. People can tour the studio where greats like Aretha Franklin, Aloe Blacc and Anderson East recorded music.

Not only does the Shoals offer musical venues, but the community also has multiple outdoor experiences for people to enjoy.

Among said places is Cane Creek Nature Preserve. The preserve offers more than 18 miles of hiking trails and is home to several waterfalls.

“It’s a place where people can come and see a pristine part of Northwest Alabama that is consciously preserved to be in a natural state,” said Jim Lacefield, owner of Cane Creek Nature Preserve.

Cane Creek is open Friday - Sunday and an estimated 18,000 people visit there every year.

For those less interested in hiking and more interested in picnics, McFarland Park is always a viable candidate.

Nestled on the Tennessee River,

CIERA GOLLIVER News Editor news@florala.net

As a student, sometimes it seems like money is a constant topic of conversation.

However incessant, students should be aware of how money is used at the university.

Students at UNA pay $56 toward the student activity fee each semester.

This money goes toward the University Program Council and Resident Student

Organizations.

The purpose of the Student Activity Fee is to give UNA students access to activities year round. This includes RSO and UPC activities from cultural programs to live acts. Just because student representatives have access to this money does not mean they are allowed to be reckless with it.

UPC has a $75,000 budget devoted to the Spring Concert. In 2017, UPC received extra money from the rollover budget, an account where any money SGA does not use in the fiscal year is stored. In total, the Spring Concert totaled $106,000 for three artists, according to the SGA website.

Despite its high cost, this concert did not generate as much external revenue as previous artists with a cheaper contract.

Events occur on campus daily the majority of students do not know about.

Students should know about events their money pays for in not only enough time to attend but enough time to contribute ideas.

How many student’s opinions do representatives consult when the majority of campus is unaware what is going on? A small group of people from the same social group does not represent the diversity

CONGRATULATIONS WRITER AND PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE WEEK! CODY CAMPBELL

among the student body. At the beginning of the fall 2017 school year, SGA devoted money from the state budget to hire multiple people to fill marketing positions.

If this is some revolutionary idea, by this point all students should know there are multiple events on campus every week.

The best way for students to know about campus events is through SGA Remind, but notices on events are usually not sent out until the day of. It is easy to pay for these positions when the school provides the money, but I am sure these SGA officials would feel differently if they were the ones paying for these events out of their own pocket.

Each time an event occurs on campus, make sure money is used properly. Get in touch with university leaders about things needed on campus to ensure every student has a voice.

With SGA elections finishing up, hold these newly elected representatives accountable of their promises to the students. I encourage all students to watch the live streamed SGA meetings to keep up with long-term plans. Meetings are also open to the public. See The Flor-Ala calendar on page 15 for more details.

Letters Policy

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

AND

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

CALEB COLE

edit or refuse to publish a letter.

14 PHOTOS Graduate student teaches English in China

Touring with the locals Cole worked with numerous international students. The university expects more than 30 new Chinese students to attend UNA in the near future.

Traveling the world While teaching in China, graduate student Caleb Cole visited iconic places in the foreign country. Some of his students traveled with him and made excellent tour guides.

CALEB COLE Staff Photographer ccole4@una.edu UNA sent a group of teachers from the Office of International Affairs to partnering universities in China to teach English language courses to prospective Chinese students in December 2017.

The initiative, which was the first of its kind at UNA, came as the result of the university’s recent inclusion into a consortium of recognized American and Chinese universities that are permitted to implement an international education initiative called the 1-2-1 Program.

This collaborative model allows Chinese students to earn two degrees from both UNA and their home university by studying for two years at each respective institution.

President Kitts and Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Ross Alexander have worked closely with this project in the hopes to not only create international connections, but also entice international students to UNA. “It’s a very unique and innovative way for international collaboration,” said Chunsheng Zhang, senior vice provost for international affairs.

The 1-2-1 Program contributes to the university’s international education initiative by further diversifying the student body population. Similar initiatives have been in place at UNA for quite some

time, but the 1-2-1 Program has the ability to provide a clear pathway for “cohorts” of Chinese students to study in the United States, Zhang said.

“By reaching a partnership and deepening a relationship with one university or selected universities, (the 1-2-1 Program) gives us opportunities to expand our international education mission,” Zhang said.

UNA currently has partnerships with two Chinese universities in the 1-2-1 Program who collaborate to design curriculum in the fields of accounting and biology. The group of teachers who went to China late last year taught potential students English language skills and helped to inform them about student life at UNA. All told, this recruiting model was very successful. This summer UNA expects to welcome 30-40 new Chinese students to join the more than 200 international students already in attendance at UNA. Zhang said the 1-2-1 Program will, “generate more success on both sides in reaching each universities’ international education goals.”

In May, UNA plans to send three more faculty members and several students to China to further cultivate its relationship with its partner universities. If prior success is any indicator, the 1-2-1 Program could be an asset to UNA’s international education mission for years to come.

Shanghai skyline Although primarily there to teach, Cole also participated in fun outings. Among them was a visit to see the Shanghai Skyline.

Peacin’ all over the world Young adults everywhere, even China, make peace signs in their photos. Sharing meals with students was a great way for Cole to connect with the foreign culture.

CALENDAR 15 Thurs., Feb. 22 What: UNA Men’s Basketball vs West Alabama When: 3 p.m.

Where: Flowers Hall What: Senate Meeting When: 3:30 p.m.

Where: Student Engagement What: Writer’s Meeting When: 4:30 p.m.

Where: Student Publications Building What: Michael Eric Dyson: UNA Black History Month Lecture When: 6 p.m.

Where: The Mane Room

Fri., Feb. 23 What: Power Up Women - Rise and Roar When: 8:30 a.m.

Where: GUC Loft What: The Mountaintop When: 7:30 p.m.

Where: George S. Lindsey Theatre What: McKenzie Lockhart EP Release Show When: 7 p.m.

Where: 116 E Mobile

Sat., Feb. 24 What: Florence African American Heritage Project When: 10 a.m.

Where: Florence-Lauderdale Public Library What: Steal Away Home When: 7 p.m.

Where: Shoals Community Theatre What: The Mountaintop When: 7:30 p.m.

Where: George S. Lindsey Theatre What: Muscle Shoals Meets The Beatles When: 7 p.m.

Where: Marriott Shoals Conference Center

Sun., Feb. 25 What: The Mountaintop When: 2 p.m.

Where: George S. Lindsey Theatre What: Steal Away Home When: 2 p.m.

Where: Shoals Community Theatre

ANDREA BELK| Staff Photographer

Alpha Tau Omega performed at the 2018 Step Sing with the theme “The GreAT Outdoors.” This year was their fifth year in a row to win overall first place.

What: Cinema Sunday When: 3 p.m.

Where: Singin’ River Brewing Co.

Tues., Feb. 27

What: Henna Tattoos and Buttons When: 10:30 a.m.

Where: GUC Atrium What: Church Painting Class When: 11 a.m.

Where: Studio 23 What: Black Panther Film Discussion When: 5:30 p.m.

Where: Florence-Lauderdale Public Library What: Sushi Class When: 6:30 p.m.

Where: Singin’ River Brewing Co.

Wed., Feb. 28 What: Second Chance Prom When: 7 p.m.

Where: GUC Banquet Halls B and C

Thurs., March 1

Sat., March 3

What: George Lindsey Film Festival When: All-day Where: UNA Communications Building 131 / The Mane Room

What: George Lindsey Film Festival When: All-day Where: Communications Building Room 131 and 124

What: UNA Wesley Foundation Fundraising Dinner When: 6 p.m.

Where: UNA Wesley Foundation What: Andy Harnsberger, Guest Percussion Recital When: 7:30 p.m.

Where: Norton Auditorium

Fri., March 2 What: George Lindsey Film Festival When: All-day Where: The Mane Room What: Two Nights with The Secret Sisters When: 7 p.m.

Where: 116 E Mobile What: Travis Tritt Concert When: 8 p.m.

Where: Shoals Community Theatre

What: George Lindsey Film Festival Awards Show When: 6:30 p.m.

Where: The Mane Room What: Two Nights with The Secret Sisters When: 7 p.m.

Where: 116 E Mobile

Sun., March 4 What: High Up with Whispertown and Red Mouth concert When: 7 p.m.

Where: 116 E Mobile

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

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