Spring Issue 2: January 26, 2016

Students voice concerns over Security’s response to sexual assault near campus ISSUE 2 JAN. 26

SPRING 2016

An adult woman was sexually assaulted in broad daylight by a man at the park located at Edgewood Drive and South Ruffner Road, just less than half a mile from Florida Tech.

Commander Daniel Lynch, Melbourne Police public information officer, said the case is still an active investigation, but that the victim was not an FIT student and there was no pattern showing this was a recurring crime in the area. MPD is actively pursuing the criminal.

Melbourne Police alerted Campus Security, who then sent out an email entitled “Timely Notice,” and signed Kevin Graham, Director of Security.

The sexual assault happened at 6 p.m. on Jan. 17, and the “timely notice” was sent out three days later. At the time of this publishing, it’s still an active investigation and police are still searching for the perpetrator.

“It’s not connected to FIT, we just had to report because FIT has protocols they had to put out,” Lynch said of the sexual assault.

Those protocols are that if a sexual assault happens close to the university and there continues to be an ongoing threat to students, Security is required to issue a timely warning to the campus under the Jeanne Clery law.

“We just gotta be a little more vigilant,” said Rodney Bowers, dean of Student Affairs.

“From what I read in the message, she had her headset on and wasn’t really paying attention.”

Throughout the day, people were heard in conversation talking about the email, as the wording was disconcerting to some students.

“I feel like when I read it, the email seemed to me like ‘we better send this out so we can cover our asses,’ rather than ‘I’m genuinely concerned about the safety of our students,’” said Duke Richardson, a senior in communication. “Sending an email to FITforum isn’t exactly leading the charge on a safe campus, you know? How many emails on FITforum do you get a day that you just completely disregard? I disregard more than half.”

Some didn’t like that the subject line was, “Timely Notice,” while some didn’t like the fact the safety tips were prefaced with the fact that the woman was wearing headphones and unaware, given it was daytime.

“It made me very upset, I felt like nobody cared what this guy did,” said Suzanne Beims, a junior in accounting. “And it left the impression that security doesn’t give a shit.”

Photo by Ebube Ubochi She went on to explain that the situation made her concerned for the interests of students who experience sexual assault on campus.

“Let’s say that I got sexually assaulted and I went and told Security,” she said. “Security’s going to be like, oh well, you weren’t paying attention, this is your fault, but we’ll send out an email about it.”

The Title IX process is extensive, and Security is required to do an investigation of all sexual assault investigations, where they’re fair to both the victim and the suspect, calling the victim the “complainant,” and the suspect the “respondent” for fairness, figuring out the facts of the case, and presenting them to Dean Bowers for a disciplinary decision on whether it was a violation on the student code of conduct, according to Graham.

“There definitely should have been more of a warning like this behavior is not tolerated, than ‘well, if it’s going to happen it’s going to happen, just try to make sure it doesn't happen to you,’” said Beims.

Richardson said he was fine with the content of the email, but that the most important piece of informa-

targeted to give you a clear picture of why that person was being assaulted.”

Approximately 4/5 of assaults are committed by someone known to the victim — and 47 percent of rapists are a friend or acquaintance, according to RAINN statistics.

This case is rare in that the attacker was a stranger unknown to the victim.

“If it had happened on campus,” Bowers said, “most definitely there probably would have been more of a response.”

Bowers said he thinks Security is handling sexual assault investigations fairly, but that he’d like to see more female security officers on campus and more outreach educational programs.

“I just wish the information we got was like, ‘hey, this is our Panther Family, this is what we want to do to protect the pack,’” Richardson said, “rather than, ‘don’t run with headphones in or you’re going to get sexually assaulted.’” v

tion that was missing was the message: ‘don’t sexually assault people.’

“I think that all of the targeted emals and information that we get is more geared toward ‘bad things are happening, it’s inevitable, so these are ways you can try and prolong something bad happening to you,” Richardson said. “Not prevent — but prolong the inevitable events that are going to happen to you. As opposed to, ‘let’s create a culture on this campus where sexual assault is not okay.”

He mentioned the It’s On Us campaign that many people pledged to last year, a national program dedicated to stopping sexual assault on college campuses.

According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, 68 percent of sexual assault crimes are not reported to police, and 98 percent of will never spend a day in prison, so creating a culture of recognizing, reporting and reinforcing is exactly what campaigns like It’s On Us, Security and Title IX have said they are aiming to do.

“I took it totally differently,” Bowers said. “They were trying to explain what happened based on the information they were given, so you’d be aware of what type of person was being

Screenshot of email on Page 2. //REBEKAH DUNTZ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF @BEKA.PD

Students vandalize Evans Student Center The Florida Tech community received news of a vandalism incident this week at the Evan’s Student Center on the northern end of campus. Holes were punched in the drywall in the ping pong room, and recliner chairs were moved and broken.

The building, which is in the residence quad, is an important piece of student life for underclassmen, containing a computer lab, ping pong table, conference rooms, and a movie room.

SGA President Jessica Cushman was particularly upset with the disrespect shown by the vandals; “We want to make [Evans] better, we are planning on ordering new furniture, but we have to deal with

the wall, that’s the priority now.”

The wall was fixed on Friday, just one day after Cushman sent an email to the student body condemning the act, and trying to promote the Evans center as a positive space for students. Facilities covered the cost of filling and painting the drywall, but in the future, incidents could incur sanctions on use of the Student Center, including ID restricted access, or shortened hours, although Cushman considers it a worst case scenario.

In order to promote respect for the Student Center, Cushman and SGA plan on amplifying the positive environment for students by adding plants and possi-

bly art. Cushman hopes this could discourage students from disrupting the operations of the student center further.

According to Director of Security Kevin Graham, there was only one camera in the vicinity, but officers weren’t able to identify the student. “We’re gonna be putting cameras in there,” he said.

As of 2:37 p.m. on Jan. 22, Security has pulled all the names of who was in the center at the time with key card access and are limiting their investigation to a few students.

“It looks like someone was playing an aggressive game of ping pong, like lose or die kind of ping pong game,” said Graham,

after his officer spoke with several students.

Graham expressed concern about the center being open all night and day, and that Security will be putting secret, hidden cameras in the center because of this incident.

“It’s important that students take ownership of

this place,” Graham mentioned. He said any further restrictions or consequences will be up to Dean Rodney Bowers or other members of administration. v // WILL HENDERSON , STAFF WRITER // REBEKAH DUNTZ, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

In this issue EDITORIAL: SEXUAL ASSAULT STAR WARS: TFA REVIEW SYRIAN REFUGEE CRISIS LOCAL MUSIC SPORTS

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ISSUE 2

JAN. 26

OPINIONS

EDITORIAL

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Stop using victim-blaming terminology

It is completely unacceptable that Campus Security’s only publicized response to a sexual assault case near campus is to tell students be aware of their surroundings.

Gendered violence is a complex issue, too valuable to cheapen with a hastily-assembled email.

The words we choose in speaking about sexual assault and other violent crimes ought to take into consideration the nuances of deeply-rooted cultural mindsets that are at the heart of such attacks.

Poorly chosen phrases such as the ones contained in the email entitled “Timely Notice,” sent to all of campus on Wednesday by Kevin Graham, director of Security, reinforce a skewed perspective used all too often when discussing sexual violence.

The email briefly stated that a sexual assault had occurred near campus, providing only two details: the location of the crime and the victim’s appearance. The message went on to provide safety tips to students, including commonsense ideas such as “be alert” and “walk in groups.”

How is emphasizing a victim’s appearance or behavior even a remotely appropriate way to begin a discussion about sexual violence?

Are headphones the real issue? Is the fact that this week’s victim was walking alone the real issue?

Of course not.

Sexual assault is a

violent crime, and like any other crime, is a direct result of a choice actively made the the assailant. No victim’s appearance, behavior, or any other factor is to blame.

It is unacceptable for anyone to sexually assault another person, regardless of the victim’s level of situational awareness or physical vulnerability.

Sending an email that emphasizes a victim’s physical appearance instead of these important truths about why sexual violence happens is an inappropriate reaction to the crime, and it is unreasonable for Graham to assume that his words can stand alone.

Whether he recognizes it or not, placing emphasis on only one aspect of a problem sends a message that other parts are unimportant or not worth discussing.

Women everywhere grow up hearing and living according to messages about self-preservation, as if preventing sexual assault is a one-way street, or a burden belonging only to the women and the potential victims of the world.

Students have been reminded not to wear headphones, even in daylight.

As if listening to music is equivalent to asking to be sexually assaulted, not simply another way of moving through a public space as a human whom no one is justified in attacking.

We are told that the way we dress ought to determine our level of safety. As if wearing what you prefer

means that an attacker’s decision to rape is acceptable.

It’s often said that a woman should never leave her drink unguarded at a bar or party. As if telling women to always be on the defensive is enough, when the true solution is instructing children from a young age that preying on someone weaker than them is wrong, and that no truly means no.

Would our safety leaders rather talk heartlessly about how our more vulnerable students can better shoulder the burden of preventing assault, than emphasize how wrong it is that the assault happened in the first place?

It may be difficult for some men to fully appreciate the privilege they possess of moving safely through public spaces.

Similarly, it seems like it’s difficult for Kevin Graham to realize how problematic his recent email is.

Ignorance is no excuse.

Not in 2016.

This week’s “timely notice” would have benefited from including a statement emphasizing how unacceptable the assault was, and how no victim’s appearance is a relevant factor in their assault.

Florida Tech Campus Safety owes it to students to be a strong, vocal presence at the forefront of our battle to prevent sexual assault at the source. v //THE EDITORIAL BOARD

ISSUE 2

JAN. 26

OPINIONS

3

REVIEW

Star Wars: The Force Awakens Star Wars: The Force Awakens was an emotional journey from the very first moment.

Despite criticisms that it follows the narrative of Episode IV too closely, the film provides a satisfying viewing experience through such classic Star Wars features as well-developed characters, largerthan-life action scenes and a dynamic, lived-in, environment with its own history.

It’s a film that seems specifically made for long-time fans, with so many nods to the past that it’s easy to see why some viewers might find them tiresome.

But to me, each reference to the original trilogy and even the prequels reinforced something that Star Wars has stood for since it’s beginning: sci-fi as an optimistic take on the future.

Almost beat for beat, scenes in TFA resonated with matching moments in the older films, from hilarious dialogue to authentic practical visual effects.

When our heroes step in to Maz Kanata’s castle, the camera focuses

first on several other background characters, telling the location’s story through them. Remind anyone of a certain hive of scum and villainy on Tatooine?

During the entire TIE-fighter scene, Finn and Poe’s actions and reactions echo Han and Luke’s first space battle together, especially as Finn learns a new gun and targeting system and the pair share excited shouts with each enemy fighter demolished.

Harrison Ford delivers a strong, welcoming performance as Han Solo, but perhaps the most important character moments are when Finn and Rey’s personalities shine through their flaws and weak points.

For example, Rey’s fear of getting more involved with the conflict between the Resistance and the First order after her vision under Maz’s castle made her courage later in the film more important.

Finn’s persistence in holding Rey’s hand early on plays out as his determination to protect and keep fighting for what he knew was

right, and in a way, it’s his foolhardiness that lets him accomplish so much, despite creating tricky situations along the way.

I applaud the writing team that assembled Rey and all of the circumstances she faced in the film.

Startlingly enough, it’s a big achievement to create a blockbuster film in which the main female character exists without being sexualized or used for a purpose aside from of furthering a male character’s narrative.

Daisy Ridley’s portrayal of Rey showed us that her character’s journey, emotions and opinions were as complex and multifaceted as those of the characters portrayed by male actors.

I’m interested to see more development from the new characters in the films to come. Will Luke lead Rey in the ways of the Jedi? What role will Finn play in the Resistance? How long until we learn the story of Ben Solo’s fall to the dark side? And perhaps most importantly of all, how many more hearts will BB-8 win?

All in all, The Force Awakens lived up to the hype. The heartwarming return to a galaxy far, far away welcomes new and old fans, and sets a stage for the next installment of the saga that has moved millions. //ALEX COULTRUP SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

ISSUE 2

JAN. 26

CAMPUS LIFE

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Florida Tech students discuss Syrian refugee crisis The Syrian Refugee crisis is a worldwide predicament that can be felt by some students right here at Florida Tech.

Refugees fleeing Syria are coming to the United States by the thousands to escape extremist religious groups.

“All the Syrian refugees should be hosted in the country they choose to go,” said Mohamad Alfalahi, a mechanical engineering student from Oman, “especially in the countries that are involved in this mess.”

Opposing viewpoints were expected with this controversial topic.

“They would have a tough time adapting to and accepting our culture, thus causing even more civil unrest in a country that is being torn apart by a media-fabricated racial divide,” said Brian Dumont, a software engineer.

Although there is not

a serious problem thus far in Florida with Syrian refugees, other parts of the nation are experiencing an influx of people.

More than 10,000 refugees are said to be making their way into the United States to find better living in an attempt to have a better more peaceful life.

This of course sparks fear in some Americans as the potential for religious extremists to enter the country is much higher.

“It seems simpler and less damaging to the people involved to send financial aid and material support to help the countries best positioned to accept them; to keep them healthy and stable until a more permanent situation presents itself,” Isaac Silver, assistant professor at the College of Aeronautics.

Some Americans argue we should or should not let refugees into the country,

but the plan will follow through and refugees will be allowed into the United States aside from what leaders of states have to say.

The high Muslim population in this community could spark fear in some

students that do not fully understand the peace behind the religion.

There is a non-denominational prayer room where students who practice Islam are able to go in and pray throughout the day.

The crisis instills fear in

WIKIMEDIA.ORG many Americans who have been given a reason to fear certain religious extremist groups.

The refugee crisis is an ongoing struggle and the families suffering are seeking shelter wherever they are welcome.v //LAUREN SUAREZ CONTRIBUTING WRITER

New exhibit opens at Ruth Funk Center “This is the only textile museum in the whole state of Florida,” a guest proudly announced at the Ruth Funk Center’s opening reception of Reimagined: Innovations in Fiber on Friday, Jan. 22.

The newly revealed exhibition features the art of Miami-based contemporary artists, Alex Trimino and Carrie Sieh.

Both artists, whose work experiments with principles of mathematics, coding and technology, while simultaneously redefining the use of traditional lo-tech crafts, were in attendance during Friday’s event.

President Anthony Catanese and his wife, as well as other notable members of the Florida Tech community, were also present.

Catanese shared his impression of the exhibition: “I think it is fascinating, you know? I had to figure out where the textile part comes in, but when you read the charts, those are textiles all right! It's kind of interesting: movable textiles.

But no, it's amazing.”

“And that piece over there fascinates me. Just installing that piece would take a master techni-

cian to set up,” Catanese commented as he pointed to the 49 hand-crocheted textile fragments that constitute only one of the exhibition’s multiple works.

“I think my favorite part is the neon. Yes. It is so great!” Mrs. Catanese added.

Neon lights are just one of the many unexpected materials used in the art of Trimino and Sieh.

One work, titled Content Creators and Luxuriated Bodies, is a 20-footwide image crafted almost entirely of crocheted VHS tape.

Another piece features hand embroidery and screen print on repurposed cardboard packaging.

Edward Was Too Young to Go to War is composed of plastic grocery bags stitched meticulously together.

Extensive research, along with themes of technology and psychology, underlies the work of Sieh, who received a master’s degree in Library and Information Science after obtaining a B.A. in Art. “I think a lot about psychological inheritance and how experiences are passed down, whether intentional or unintentional,” Sieh explained. “I use visual pattern as a way to think about memory and unconscious behavioral patterns.”

Sieh gestured to a

framed print that was hinged to the wall: “To me, this is a hopeful piece,” the mixed media artist explained. “It represents the way people can sort of edit their memories.”

“The photograph is a record of an event or experience that happened, but the embroidery can be created over that. These are all for me very personal moments of time and space, but certain elements have been taken out. I have removed the emulsion and replaced those elements with something more pleasing,” Sieh recounted.

The Center’s galleries, which were closed for installation, opened to the public on Jan. 23.

Reimagined: Innovations in Fiber will remain on display until May 7.

Admission is free. //LINDSAY ISAAC STAFF WRITER

ISSUE 2

JAN. 26

CAMPUS LIFE

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Vibrant local music scene for Florida Tech students Whether students are interested in improving test grades or simply enjoying some good vibes, the local music scene in Melbourne has a lot to offer.

“In the 21st Century, we know that music also can help you learn mathematics, science, and engineering,” said Florida Tech President Anthony J. Catanese on the Music Program’s online home page.

“The nexus between the left and right sides of the brain is much more complex and interrelated than we believed previously.”

Florida Discount Music is a local favorite for performers and listeners alike. And located just four miles from Florida Tech at the intersection of Babcock Road and U.S. 1, the venue is within biking distance for students near campus.

Florida Discount houses Open Mike’s, a small bar and organic coffee shop named after the store’s very involved owner. Open Mike’s showcases local music nearly every weeknight, with the exception of Wednesday, which is reserved for stand-up comedy.

Bradley Burton hosts the open mic at Florida Discount on Tuesday nights.

Burton is a singer-songwriter who has been playing locally since 2011.

“I think what makes

Open Mike’s stand out is that it’s not a bar hosting an open mic per say — yes, inside Open Mike’s there’s a bar and coffee shop, but it’s really more geared towards music,” Burton said.

Each night from 7 p.m. to around 10 p.m., Florida Discount has something different.

On Mondays it’s funk, on Tuesdays it’s an acoustic open mic, on Thursdays it’s Blues and Rock and on Fridays it’s Jazz.

Burton’s show, Uncovered and Unplugged Tuesdays, is geared towards musicians and songwriters with original material.

“It’s rare to find a community that has a lot of original artists, and Brevard has that,” Burton said.

If Florida Discount is just too far, there are some great local music venues located even closer to the university.

Andrew Walker, the assistant manager of Florida Tech’s Gleason Auditorium, hosts an acoustic showcase from 9- 12 p.m. on Tuesdays at Mainstreet Pub in Downtown Melbourne. The open mic usually features singer-songwriter, Americana, Folk and Reggae Rock styles, Walker said.

Chuck Van Riper, a music teacher at Florida Tech and well-known local guitar player, hosts a small open mic at Old School Pizza on Thursday nights from 8- 11 p.m.

And for a little further drive, those interested in Hard Rock can find music to their taste at The Boondocks Live bar off Sarno Road.

These venues are great for students willing to do a little traveling off campus, but for those who are not, despite Catanese’s remarks,

the options are unfortunateWalker also has been ly limited. approached by Rathskeller Kyle Knappenberger employees about hosting teaches voice at Florida an open mic there in the Tech and is also the faculfuture. “It’s just something ty advisor for the College else for me to be responPlayers drama club. Knapsible for,” Walker said. penberger hosted a couple “I want to do it, but I’m open jams in Evans Library waiting.” during the recent fall seUntil then, it seems mester.

Florida Tech music lovers “I would love to see will just have to wait with more student-organized him. v things,” Knappenberger said. He plans to continue hosting music jams and //CONNOR MAHONEY other events for students at CONTRIBUTING WRITER Evans Library.

Photo by Connor Mahoney

A minor decision may reap long-term benefits How many times has adding a minor crossed a college student’s mind?

Maybe for some, too many to count.

But with a heavy load of classes, extracurricular activities and an overall hectic schedule, the thought of adding more to a degree seems like extra work that may not even benefit job seekers.

So the question is: is it really worth it to add a minor to a degree?

Hamid Hefazi, department head of aerospace and mechanical engineering, has strong opinions about the subject. He says it is a question that parents and students often address.

“It is a good idea, but you have to have the right minor,” he said. “It depends on the goals and education of students.”

He emphasises that it must be chosen carefully, and must complement the

education, not duplicate it.

“Engineering especially, is so widespread. Four years is not enough to broaden their knowledge.

Choose one that enhances education, but not duplicates it.”

He gives the example of an aerospace engineer, with a computer science minor, something that accompanies the major very well.

Overall, Hefazi suggests that students should do a minor if they can.

It’s useful for job seekers, but it must go hand-inhand with one’s major. A randomly selected minor that is not in relation to your main studies will most likely not benefit one at all.

The head of Marine and Environmental systems, George Maul, had slightly different advice for students.

“It depends on how good of a student you are,” Maul said. “If you are above a

3.4 GPA, it would be wiser to go through the fast track program, to take graduate level classes.”

He explained that employers like to see minors in solid subjects. For example, an oceanographer should know a thing or two about the weather. A minor in climatology or environmental science would be beneficial to someone in that area of study.

“If you are majoring in science, a minor in math, physics, or chemistry, will expand your skill set and broaden your horizons,” he said.

He illustrates how going to grad school would be more beneficial to students with good grades, but minors can still help.

Sharon Irvin, professor of communication, has generally the same ideas as Hefazi and Maul.

“Think about what employers want. Minors are

good, they broaden your options. You are going to be surprised what you’re doing in ten years,” she said.

She elaborates how students have free-credit electives, and can chose how they want to use them.

A student could take advantage of them wisely, and get a minor while still graduating on time. Some students, however, take the easy way out, and choose random classes because they are ready to be done with college.

Technology, in particular computers, are tools of the future. Any minor involving them is most likely a positive fit. For example, take computer science, computational mathematics or information systems.

In the end, a minor is not a bad decision by any means. It is important to note, however, the relationship between a student’s

major and minor. A randomly selected minor that correlates with a student’s interests, but not major, will most likely not aid in the student’s hunt for a job.

If students are debating on whether or not to add a minor, think about if it will be of useful in the eye of a potential employer.

Ask yourself if it will truly broaden your knowledge in an area that will assist you in your career. Also ask yourself if it is something that will be prevalent years from now, such as computers.

Next, take advantage of all free credit electives you have, and narrow them down into taking minor-required courses.

Then, graduate with a strong major-to-minor relationship. Finally, land the career of your dreams. v //MARY KOZAITIS STAFF WRITER

ISSUE 2

NEWS

JAN. 26

Buzz Aldrin Cancels speaking engagement due to health concerns A lecture featuring Apollo 11 astronaut and Florida Tech research professor Buzz Aldrin was cancelled last Tuesday due to health concerns expressed by Aldrin’s manager.

The event was organized

by AIAA, the American Institute for Aeronautics and Astronautics, as a lecture with the opportunity for a question and answer period at the end.

On the day of the event, the lecture was moved from the auditorium in Skurla

110 to the Gleason auditorium, in order to accommodate the 325 people that RSVP’d.

Just 10 minutes prior to the event, however, Aldrin’s manager called and insisted that the event be rescheduled, citing health issues.

Many students arrived at Gleason with high hopes, unaware that the event would be postponed. Some stayed and milled about, discussing what could have happened.

One student, Caio

Silveira, a sophomore in aerospace engineering, was disappointed.

He had bought Aldrin’s book a few months ago, and was hoping to get it signed at the event.

“It’s unfortunate, but understandable,” said Silveira, insisting that Aldrin’s health is what’s most important.

Rituparna Basu, a sophomore aerospace engineering student and the newsletter manager of AIAA, expressed similar disappointment, but said he was

happy that the event was receiving so much support.

Basu is optimistic that the event will be rescheduled for early to mid-February, and that the expected turnout will be the same or greater.

Basu also was quick to contribute the growth of AIAA to the influence of Aldrin along with other astronaut speakers. “We are getting 400 people to attend this event; it’s definitely a huge influence. Membership has increased by a lot.”

The timing of the event

6

synced with a two-day workshop at the Buzz Aldrin Space Institute at the Florida Tech Center for Aeronautics and Innovation.

Aldrin and his son Andy, director of the Institute, led a discussion about one day reaching the planet Mars.

Aldrin turned 86 earlier this month. v //WILL HENDERSON STAFF WRITER

Author speaks to students about relationships and risks Harlan Cohen walked onto the stage, picked up his guitar and started to sing a song about a naked roommate. “My Roommate Stu” started the program held by Panther Leadership Institute on Jan. 14 with guest speaker Harlan Cohen in Gleason Auditorium to talk about his book, “The Naked Roommate: And 107 Other Issues You Might Run Into in College.”

The PLI is sponsored by the Office of Student Activities, whose objective is to put on programs and workshops that will help students become better leaders. Cohen is the best selling author of six books, an advice column and a speaker.

He wrote “The Naked Roommate” and its companions because of his struggles in college.

“The Naked Roommate” offers advice to students on uncomfortable situations, how to manage

stress and includes stories from college students. The book is used as a college textbook in over 100 college classrooms.

Erica Richardson, the assistant director of Student Activities, said that that PLI discovered Cohen at a National Association of Campus Activities conference “We met Harlan there and we heard him speak and he was really funny and good,” Richardson said. “We brought him last February before and back here again this year because we liked him so much.”

Cohen interacted with the audience on a face-to-face level. He would ask questions to students on stage and then walk over to them to make it more conversational. He also encouraged audience members to text their questions to him during the program.

The questions Cohen asked

students were about relationships and how they viewed themselves.

Chosen audience members looked nervous answering questions, but Cohen’s personality calmed them down as they answered.

Freshman Austin Anderson enjoyed the program. “Honestly I think my favorite part was when he started asking me questions because it really made me start thinking about how I thought about myself, which I don't really do a lot,” said Anderson.

Duke Richardson, a senior communication major, saw Cohen at the 2015 program and was excited to see Cohen speak again. Richardson said, “He's just really good with helping you break out of your shell and get to know people, that kind of stuff.”

Cohen reiterated to students that although they suck at rejection,

students should continue to take risks. They should find a support group that encourages risk taking like talking to people, especially people that students are interested in, commanding respect and believing in oneself. Cohen announced that he was launching a Naked Roommate Boot Camp for students and parents online.

“It's really just me being in people's corner to help them to face all these big changes transitions and changes,” Cohen said. “I can only go to so many campuses and I'm just tired of seeing students struggle.” Cohen ended the program with the “Syphilis Song.”

“When you go slow, you get to know what someone wants. That's how you discover it. And being sober too,” advised Cohen. v //ALLIE WOOD CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Teacher shapes community one generation at a time For the past 32 years, Jim McGinnis has shaped generations of young lives at Melbourne High School. McGinnis’s roots lie deep within the community where he was born, raised, went to college and eventually became a teacher.

His influence on Brevard youth hasn’t been confined to the classroom. He served as the head baseball coach at Melbourne High for many years. His ties to the community deepen with the fact that he played baseball at Florida Tech as an undergraduate.

“He is who he is, he does not kowtow to the establishment,” said Jennifer Mason, who teaches history alongside McGinnis.

“He teaches in his own way and a [he’s a] storyteller that’s second to none.”

Students are drawn to him.

McGinnis credits his success in teaching to being genuine and daring enough to take risks. “You have to love both your student and your subject,” said McGinnis.

“You have to let yourself go, my mentors and colleagues have really influenced me and showed me that you really can’t be afraid to put yourself out there for students.”

With 32 years of memories made in the classroom mixed with personal stories, he wrote, “Tending to The Past, Reflections of an American History Teacher.” His command of the English language is pleasant. “I’ve always dabbled in bad poetry,” said McGinnis. “It has something for everyone inside.”

A self-proclaimed hopeless romantic, McGinnis first began writing in the form of love letters to his wife. He acknowledged his mentors, students, wife and other close friends as the inspiration for the book.

It’s his compassion for the youth and history that differentiates his class from others. He’s not afraid to put himself out there, to sacrifice his ego to try and reach a student.

Former students often share a bond with a special teacher like

McGinnis. Former student Taylor Kellar said, “Jim McGinnis is much more than a teacher. He’s a hero, a role model, a mentor and a friend.

His love of history combined with his love for the students makes him a treasure and someone I feel extremely blessed to know and love!”

Gratification is often delayed with teaching. McGinnis explained that having a passion for the subject is critical. He loves kids though and said that their energy provides him with energy.

That energy keeps him feeling young. McGinnis is an outdoors guy. He enjoys being out on the boat or walking his dogs Marley, and Indie.

Although he admitted that younger teachers can acclimate to

technology, McGinnis is fearful that future generations of teachers might not get the opportunity to be comfortable and really teach the kids. “There are incredible changes going on that are really taking away the good parts of teaching,” he said.

Teachers that can impact so many people in a positive way are rare. It shows what a true asset he is to the Brevard community. v //BRANDON SHELLEY CONTRIBUTING WRITER

ISSUE 2

SCI-TECH

JAN. 26

7

FAA Enacts Drone Registration Requirements In keeping with their deadline to have a drone registration system in place before Christmas, the Federal Aviation Administration enacted their new Unmanned Aircraft System Registration requirements on Dec. 21 of last year.

Users who owned a drone prior to Dec. 21 have until Feb. 19 to register, while those who purchase one after Dec. 21 must register before flying. Those who do not register may face heavy penalties.

According to the FAA website, drone owners are required to register if their drone weighs more than 0.55 lbs and less than 55 lbs.

Those over 55 lbs fall under pre-existing aircraft regulations while those under 0.55 lbs get around the requirements.

While the biggest factor limiting light-weight drones is the battery, there are currently a variety of reasonably high quality quad-copters including many with cameras, which fall below 0.55 lbs.

To register a drone, you must be at least 13 years old and be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Children under 13 can have a parent register in their place while non-U.S. Citizens can instead obtain a “recognition of ownership” which also allows them to fly their drone legally; this is due to another FAA rule preventing non-citizens from registering aircraft in the U.S. Owners can register their drone at www.faa.gov/uas/registration.

The process requires a name, home address and email address.

The total cost of registering is $5 total for an identification number that can be placed on as many drones as needed. The registration is good for 3 years and will require another $5 fee to re-register when it expires.

Those who register will get a certificate of aircraft registration which they must be able to produce on request when flying their drone. The FAA does however add

that the certificate can be produced through electronic forms such as on a smartphone.

The drone owners identification number must be placed on the drone and visible upon inspection. Most choose to write it on the drone in marker, but according to the FAA, owners are allowed to place it inside the battery compartment as long as it can be accessed without the use of tools.

Under the FAA’s current rules, those who do not register can face civil penalties of fines up to $27,500 and criminal penalties of fines as high as $250,000 or three years in prison. According to NBC news, this is based upon existing rules for manned aircrafts and it is unlikely drone owners would actually face these same penalties but is still technically possible.

It’s unclear exactly how the FAA will be enforcing these rules and catching violators, though they say they will be relying on local law

enforcement.

Most likely the registration information will come into play when individuals are performing dangerous activities or after an incident has occurred rather than law enforcement checking up on people flying in their backyard. Within the first 30 days of registration being open 300,000 drone owners have registered. //CHRIS PANGALOS STAFF WRITER

THE ELEMENTARY MOBILE PHOTOGRAPHER STARTER PACK If you have a smartphone and want to learn to take and edit better-than-average pictures, then this list is for you.

PHOTOSHOP MIX VSCO GOOGLE CAMERA

Let’s start with a simple one: an actual camera app.

The Google camera is the stock camera application that comes with the company’s Nexus line of smartphones. A couple of years ago, no doubt as part of Google’s bid to take back Android and fight fragmentation, the app was made accessible on the Play Store for all Android users to take advantage of, regardless of their device or its manufacturer. The app is simple and has a clean, unobtrusive and interactive interface and is definitely worth a download.

SNAPSEED Also by Google, this application is solely for the purpose of photo editing.

With top of the line features and a knack for great performance, the app has a unique gesture based user interface and offers an exceptional level of control over its applicable effects and filters. The app’s most prominent downside is perhaps the lack of intuitiveness of its tools and interface. It takes a while to get used to Snapseed’s features because of this, but it’s only a minor setback.

FLICKR Think of this as the social network for photographers.

You thought Instagram already held that mantle?

Nah. You’ll understand when you see it, really.

Flickr is a site catered to people who take photos as a serious hobby, and even offers image protection features that prevents casual viewers from downloading specified content. It’s a great place to learn things about aspects of photography such as angles, lighting, framing and much more. So even if you’re not going to post anything, it’s worth trying out.

With an extensive set of tools and filters and a variety of options for content management and sharing, this app really is a musthave for anyone interested in building their photo editing skills. VSCO offers users a wide range range of films and filters for giving photos new life and a completely new feel. It also has a long list of manual controls for color and lighting.

Granted, the app may seem slightly complicated in the fact that it expects you to know what you’re doing, seeing as all filters are meticulously labeled, but this doesn’t necessarily take much getting used to. It is worth mentioning, however, that the app’s camera feature is not as robust on Android as it is on iOS.

Having said all this, it is worth mentioning that there is nothing to lose in acquainting oneself with the photo editing features of the camera/photos app on a currently owned device before seeking help from third party apps. v

This app has a fairly well designed interface and with its intuitive cut-out tool, is excellent for creating collages with multiple layers (Just like the real Photoshop, who’d have thought?...). One of this app's best features is its ability to integrate well with the other apps in Adobe’s creative Cloud suite.

One of the worst things about it is the fact that most of its features are “premium” and require money to access. They don’t even seem worth paying for in all honesty, but the app still does the job. The app is definitely worth trying, if only just to gauge the usefulness of its features and how it fits in one’s personal editing style. //EBUBE UBOCHI SCITECH EDITOR

ISSUE 2

JAN. 26

SPORTS

8

Men’s Basketball partners with Team IMPACT The only time he wasn’t smiling was when he had to sign his name on the dotted line, and when you’re five years old, each letter takes focus.

Jesse Youmans’ signing to the men’s basketball team was held Jan. 15 at the Varsity Training Center.

Athletes from several Florida Tech teams attended the event, giving Jesse a standing room only audience.

Jesse suffers from Tetralogy of Fallot, a congenital heart defect. His condition will prevent him from ever being able to participate in contact sports.

Thanks to Team IMPACT, Jesse will not be denied the unique experience of brotherhood that can come from belonging to a team, even if he doesn’t quite meet the height requirement.

Team IMPACT is an organization that works to connect chronically or terminally ill children with collegiate sports teams.

Each child remains involved with their team until they graduate from high school or leave the program.

Men’s basketball is the fifth FIT team to become involved with the organiza-

tion, joining softball, men’s and women’s lacrosse and men’s soccer. The baseball and tennis teams will also be signing Team IMPACT kids to their teams this semester.

The proud young panthers are allowed to attend all games, practices and other team events right alongside their new teammates.

“Every day, we fight to win games and practice, but it’s just so much bigger than all of that,” said senior Corbin Jackson. “It brings perspective to life and lets you know that there are way more important things than winning and losing basketball games.”

For each new child welcomed into the athletics family, FIT hosts a mock press conference. The new member signs a letter of intent, receives a number and official jersey from their coach, and answers questions from their new teammates.

“He’s had to go through more than most of us will our entire life,” said senior Isaac Spence. “Anything that we can do to help him and to help his situation or put a smile on his face really I think says a lot about

our program and Florida Tech.”

Jesse’s signing ceremony was a happy mass of jitters, smiles, high fives and blue frosting. His favorite foods are chocolate ice cream and spaghetti, and Batman is his favorite superhero.

Head Coach Billy Mims made it clear that Jesse was now his team’s superhero.

“Once you get to know

For five games in a row, the Panthers have been unable to put together a full forty minutes of basketball to come away with a win.

The team was running into the same problems every game. There were too many turnovers, weak defense, sloppy offense and not enough effort.

In four of the five losses, the Panthers went into the second period at a deficit, having to fight their way back for a chance to win at the end of the game.

"When you spend so much energy coming back, you’re going to run out of gas at some point," said Mims after the first loss of the streak against Saint Leo. “You just can’t dig yourselves a hole like we did. It’s been a problem all

year. We’re losing games because of the effort we’re putting on the floor in the first period.”

The following loss against Palm Beach Atlantic recorded the first back-to-back losses for the Panthers this season.

The trend followed the team back to their home court where they lost all of their next three games, all of which were conference play.

Their most recent loss against conference rival, Barry University, was by a 20-point deficit, the worst loss in the books for the season this far. The Panthers only made 3 out of fourteen three-point attempts, another season low.

The losing streak dropped the Panthers from

their No. 2 place in the conference rankings into a tie for sixth.

A shift in momentum finally came when the Panthers traveled to Daytona Beach to play Embry-Riddle, a team they lost to earlier in the season.

"We need something right now to get that confidence back," Mims said after the loss to Barry. "The only thing to solve that is to win. There’s no medicine like a good win."

A good win is exactly what the Panthers got Saturday night in a complete 180 turn around. Beating Embry-Riddle 82-60, the 22-point win is the largest margin of victory for the Panthers since 2013.

“This is what I’m so proud of — on the road

Photo by Audrey Gangloff these people and the tremendous heroes that they are, they touch your heart,” said Mims. “Jesse has done that with all of our men’s basketball players.”

Spence has already noticed the change within his teammates.

He said that when Jesse shows up, running around and giving high-fives, it really brings some of the players out of their shell.

If the team is ever having a bad day, Jesse can be counted on to show up with a bright positive energy to change the mood.

“He is so happy and so excited,” said Jesse’s mother, Jennifer. “He’s always talking about his brothers.” v // AUDREY GANGLOFF SPORTS EDITOR

Men’s Basketball breaks 5-Game losing streak against a really good team that destroyed us at home, we hold Embry-Riddle in the second half to 27 points,” said Mims. “I can’t be more proud of our defense tonight. That’s the best defensive effort this Panther team has given all year.”

Redshirt sophomore Jordan Majors took it upon himself to set the tone Saturday night. The Eagles couldn’t touch him the in the first half where the score 17 of his 20 points.

The rest of the team got caught up in the positive, driving rhythm. Randy Echols, the Sunshine State Conference’s leader in three-point field goal percentage, hit the Eagles with a three-pointer at the opening of the second period.

Men’s Swim Team Defeats No. 11 Tampa 106-99 The gusty winds and chilly skies didn’t faze the swimming team on Jan. 23 as they grabbed their first conference win of the season.

The Panthers won six out of 11 events with Yagoh Kubagawa earning a NCAA B-Cut time in the 1,000-

yard freestyle.

The Panthers’ win against Tampa was also their first in program history.

“It was great to see the men get a win for each other,” said head coach Justin Andrade. “They have worked hard this year and overcome a lot

of obstacles. We just need to continue to focus and work hard through the rest of the season. We’re very proud of what they have accomplished today and the confidence it gives them to continue striving to become better.”

The Panthers get back in

the pool Tuesday afternoon to host SSC rivals Lynn and Saint Leo. v //AUDREY GANGLOFF SPORTS EDITOR

The Panthers never looked back.

“What we’ve been doing wasn’t working, we had to make some changes,” said Mims. “We tweaked the game plan and the guys bought into it. That shows the character of this team and a group of guys that are tired of losing. We didn’t play in a track meet tonight.

We limited our turnovers, increased our execution and controlled the tempo of the ball game.”

The Panthers are looking to ride this win into their SSC matchup against Tampa on Wednesday in the Clemente Center at 7:30 p.m. v // AUDREY GANGLOFF SPORTS EDITOR