The Minaret 11/13/14

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November 13, 2014

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Budding Artist Follows Her Passion

By THERESA STANTON News Writer

Photo courtesy of Allison Nill

Shabbat Dinner: Open to All Students See A&E Page 5

Fighting Gravity: A Journey to Self Discovery

See A&E Page 7

Hockey Team Participates in Movember, Rallies Behind Cancer-Stricken Coach See SPORTS Page 16 Like Us! The Minaret Follow Us! twitter.com/minaret

While most students are getting ready for bed or finishing up homework, Allison Nill, a junior art major with a concentration in painting, is up late at the Scarfone art studio. Sitting on a stool in the open-aired studio, Nill gets in the creative mindset needed to produce her next piece. Bastille’s “Pompeii” echoes through the studio on a speaker behind her.

And the walls kept tumbling down In the city that we love Great clouds roll over the hills Bringing darkness from above She first sketches out a female figure in ink. Next she adds a piece of wood behind the white canvas, which creates a unique grainy texture.

But if you close your eyes, Does it almost feel like Nothing changed at all?

With a paintbrush in hand Nill adds a layer of acrylic, ink, oil and charcoal.

Her work starts to morph into a mix between abstract and realism.

“I like that I’m able to express myself in a unique way and how soothing it is to sit down and paint,” Nill said.

As a freshman she changed from a psychology and biology major to art because of her desire to paint. Also, she wanted to explore the freedom art gives each individual.

“I did it for half a year and said I can’t, I have to quit.” I just want to be doing art,” Nill said. “A lot of the classes here are so free it allows you to explore what you’re good at.”

Starting out drawing smaller pieces in ink, she transitioned to use more mediums to paint. Nill has considered changing her minor to sculpture so that she can explore a new medium.

If Nill is stressed she paints to find relief. “Whatever experience I have that day will come through in my paintings,” Nill said. “I’m experimenting from it.”

The life of an art major is not for the weary. Nill revealed that she has stayed long hours to finish pieces. One night she stayed up almost until the To ARTIST Page 4

Homeschooled, International Students Adjust to Hectic College Culture

By LIZ ROCKETT Opinion Writer

Culture shock is not something your average American student at UT has to worry about. However, UT has quite a bit of diversity when it comes to educational background and country of origin.

Students come from public, private and even homeschooling, as well as 50 states and 137 countries. So, how are students handling their transition to UT? Laura Stewart is a freshman writing major from Washington state who was homeschooled all the way from kindergarten to freshman year of high school. Stewart finished off her high school career at a public school, but characterized her education and class material during homeschooling as being conservative due to her family’s beliefs.

“When you’re home schooled it’s different because it’s biased because your family chooses what you learn,” Stewart said. She also mentioned that attending a public high school

‘When you’re home schooled it’s different because it’s biased because your family chooses what you learn.’ definitely prepared her for a much more liberal education by covering much broader topics than she was previously exposed to.

Luckily, Sewart said she was fortunate enough to have a large group of friends prior to attending public school. However, “You have to work hard to make friends when you’re home schooled,” Stewart said. Compared to a homeschool environment there may be more opportunities to make friends due to the upbeat nature of our campus and the plethora of social activities at UT and off campus.

Being surrounded by so many people all the time has been one of the greatest

differences and biggest hurdles Stewart said she has experienced since breaking away from here home schooled past. “It’s definitely the lack of privacy,” she said.

“I’m used to sitting alone in a room for a few hours and not seeing another person.”

Luckily, her ability to learn has not been affected negatively.

In fact, Stewart believes her homeschooling has greatly benefited her when it comes to time management since she had a very flexible schedule early on. “I guess I have had a pretty independent education, I’ve taught myself a lot before,” Stewart said. “Most of my To ADJUSTMENT Page 5

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NOVEMBER 13 2014 | THE MINARET

MINARET

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mia Glatter

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ART DIRECTOR

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NEWS + FEATURES

Katherine Lavacca, Editor

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ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT Jackie Braje, Editor

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OPINION

Richard Whitaker, Editor

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SPORTS

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MULTIMEDIA

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STAFF WRITERS Madison Irwin Dominick Falco Sammi Brennan

COLUMNISTS Marcus Mitchell Griffin Guinta Terry Preston Liz Rockett Chance Smith

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NEWS + FEATURES

Astronomer’s Research Brings Us ‘One Small Step Closer’

A UT professor discusses NASA grant, research, large optical telescopes and unanswered questions.

By ZOE FOWLER Asst. News Editor

“We study astronomy to increase our knowledge of the Universe and our place in it, not [just] because it will help develop new technologies or inventions,” said Simon Schuler, an astronomy and physics professor at UT. Schuler grew up in the small town of Hastings in Michigan.

His lifelong interest in science led him to astronomy. The immensity of the subject and its connection to physics solidified his desire to pursue it.

He graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelors in physics and went on to get a PhD in physics from Clemson University. After graduating he focused on studying the chemical composition of stars and how they form and evolve.

He was awarded a grant from NASA to observe stars that have small, Earth-size planets that have been discovered by the NASA’s Kepler Mission. The Kepler Mission is a program that focuses on the exploration of the structure and diversity of planetary systems, according to kepler.nasa.gov.

The program utilizes Kepler, a space telescope, that was created to look for planets around other stars in our galaxy, according to Schuler.

“By studying the compositions of stars with small planets, we are hoping to learn why small planets form around some stars but not others,” Schuler said.

Getting permission from observatories to use a telescope is a process. Twice a year, professional astronomers have the option to submit observing proposals to a committee.

In the proposal, astronomers have to explain what they intend to use the telescope for, how many nights they need to use it for and what kind of instruments they need to use.

“The time between proposal submission and actual observing can take up to six months or more.

People generally do not get their requested time during every proposal cycle, so when you do, you want everything to go as smoothly as possible. If you don’t get any data, you may have to wait a whole year to try again,” Schuler said.

Some of the tools that he utilizes to conduct his research are the 10-m Keck telescopes in Hawaii which are located on the Big Island of Hawaii, the 8-m Gemini-South telescope in Chile and the 9.2-m Hobby Eberly Telescope in Texas.

The telescopes he has been able to use range from 0.9 m (3 ft) to 10 m (33 ft). He uses these large optical telescopes to get high-resolution spectroscopy of stars.

“Spectroscopy is the process of

Photo courtesy of Simon Schuler Simon Schuler at the Subaru Telescope, located on the summit of Mauna Kea on the Big Island of Hawaii.

spreading out light by wavelength, so we can see individual components or colors (like a rainbow) of the light,” Schuler said. “The light from stars carry information about the elements (e.g., carbon, oxygen, titanium and iron, to name a few) in their atmospheres, and I interpret that information to learn about the compositions of the stars.”

Some of the questions that influence Schuler’s research are why planets form around some stars but not others, and whether planet formation affects star formation.

“The results of my research contribute directly to humans’ ever increasing understanding of nature and the Universe, and I do not take that lightly,” Schuler said. “At the same time, I believe it is every scientist’s duty to disseminate their knowledge to the rest of humanity, and so I take my responsibilities as a professor very seriously. I often tell my students about my research in hopes that it will inspire them to find something that they love to do and work hard to achieve their aspirations.”

Schuler collaborates with his students and frequently attends the annual American Astronomical Society, a society of professional astronomers and other individuals interested in astronomy.

Drake Williams and Zachary Vaz are Schuler’s protégés. They assist him in his research on the elemental chemical composition of distant stars.

When Vaz began working with Schuler, he was an undergraduate evolutionary biology major. He is now a UT alumnus and pursuing another BS in physics at USF. “Doing this work with Dr. Schuler has forced me to better and more thoroughly understand the science composing this particular sub-field of astrophysics,” Vaz said.

Williams, a senior and psychology major, said that working with Schuler is an amazing experience because of his willingness to teach him the work, but the extensive science that goes along with it.

“He wants us to understand every step of the work and how it relates to the broader field of Astronomy, how it relates to all of science, and how it eventually relates to humanity as a whole,” Williams said. “He provides for an extremely supportive environment in which his main goal is for me and Zack, of course to learn, grow and better ourselves. I can’t speak highly enough about him.”

Zoe Fowler can be reached at zoe. fowler@theminaretonline.com

THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 13 2014

NEWS + FEATURES

3

Wrong Way Crashes Increase in Tampa Area

By KRISTA BYRD News Writer

A wrong way accident involving 5 vehicles caused eastbound I-4 in Polk county to close for several hours on Saturday, November 8, killing one person and leaving another in critical condition.

Since February 2014, there have been several wrong way accidents, seven of which were fatal, totaling 12 deaths to date. This is a huge increase compared to previous years, with 16 wrong way incidents reported in 2014 on limited access highways, while only 14 incidents were reported in 2012 and 2013 combined, according to the National Institute of Highway Safety and the Florida Highway Patrol.

Emergency workers, traffic experts and residents of the Tampa Bay Area are all baffled.

“I have never seen anything like this,” said former EMT Rafael Gonzalez.

“I have driven ambulances in Miami, Jacksonville and Tampa, and I have to say that Tampa roads scare me the most.”

“I feel unsafe on our roads. I’ve got a dash cam because I do not trust any of the Florida drivers here.” said senior commuter student and nursing major Jessica Shone.

The fatal accidents have been occurring at similar times, all around 4 a.m., with four of the seven drivers turning around to drive the wrong way after getting onto the correct on-ramp, according to police reports.

“I think the problem is that, especially at night, the lights from all of the construction look like headlights,” said Matthew Gould, a legal writer with Wilkes & McHugh, PA. Construction on Interstate 275 in Tampa began in 2012, with lane closures and road widening near the south end of the road. Since construction began, it has extended to the north end of the interstate, and currently stretches from the Bearss exit through the interchange and stopping just before the bridge to St. Petersburg.

Many of the accidents have been on Interstate 275, and the majority of the drivers involved in those accidents have

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Wikimedia Wrong way drivers have become more frequent in the Tampa Bay Area, and some experts think that its because of the increase in highway construction.

Wrong way accidents reported in 2014.

Icon by Stephanie Wauters

been under the influence of alcohol, according to Tampa police reports. For example, a woman driving under the influence was stopped on November 3 around 2 a.m. on 275 near Himes Ave. Less than 24 hours prior, another man was arrested for driving under the influence in the wrong direction on 275 as well. Both were caught without causing an accident.

“I think a case can be made that the construction on Interstate 275 is causing danger zones,” Gould said. “I am sure it is even more confusing if you are under

the influence when you see those lights.

I drive that road every day to and from work and I am sober, but I still sometimes feel turned around.”

Many of the drivers in the wrong way accidents are not originally from the Bay Area. The overwhelming amount of construction coupled with confusing directions can lead to disaster, even for a sober person.

“When I moved here, I relied on my GPS to get me everywhere, and more than once my GPS led me up a wrong way

street. If the streets are not clearly marked, its probably easy to get on the wrong way,” Gonzalez said.

“They just need to clear up construction as quickly as possible, because I know the Dale Mabry and Westshore exits especially are so messy, I think it’s confusing.” said Shone.

While accidents continue to be reported on the roadways, drivers need to take precautions when entering the road and also need to be on alert for wrong way drivers. The state has begun installing signs to signal to drivers when a wrongway driver has entered the roadway so that they can exit the roadway safely.

“Something needs to be done, but the first thing you can do is drive without distractions and never drive under the influence,” Gould said. “We need to stay aware so that we can stay alive.”

Krista Byrd can be reached at krista.byrd@spartans.ut.edu

INFORMATION

POLICE BEAT

Reports compiled by Zoe Fowler Bike Experiences Trauma On Oct. 29, a non-student was found in possession of a bicycle stolen from Tampa General Hospital. The bicycle was recovered

by TGH security.

You Can’t Escape the System On Oct. 31, two underage students were found to be under influence of alcohol off campus. They were escorted by a TPD unit for a safe return to their rooms.

No One is Safe On Nov 1, an RA requested a room search for drugs. Students were referred to conduct for narcotic possession.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT Diplomats Application The applications are due on Feb. 2.

The forms are on OrgSync.

General Assembly Ex Student Government president Matt Rutkovitz will be coming to speak at 7 p.m. Ron Vaughn will be coming to accept his prints.

Metropolitan Ministries Food Drive The food drive ends on Nov. 18.

Make sure to bring non-perishable foods and cans to the SG office.

Police Graphic by Guerra Quintanilla, Spartan Graphic by Orun Bhuiyan

4 NOVEMBER 13 2014 | THE MINARET

NEWS + FEATURES

Ethics Bowl Underdogs Undefeated at Championship

Photo courtesy of Ulixes Hawili The Ethics Bowl team accepts their championship trophy. From Left to Right: Sarah Jessica Parker, Connor Cloherty, Dr. Arvan, Ulixes Hawili, Nicole Pacheco.

By MIA GLATTER Editor-in-Chief

Captain Ulixes Hawili and his teammates face their competitors, confident in their preparations. But this is not a UT sports team. They don’t wear recognizable jerseys. No flyers heralded the match and no fans yelled through megaphone. Instead, this team is throwing arguments and dodging rebuttals, listening for fouls in carefully crafted plays.

The Ethics Bowl Speech and Debate Team competes by hammering away at ethical dilemmas surrounding suspended animation trials on humans and using sex robots. And they went undefeated against 12 schools, including The US Naval Academy, Auburn University, and Eckerd

College, coming home champions of the Southeast Regional Ethics Bowl competition last weekend.

Before coming out as champions, they entered as unfunded underdogs.

“Unlike most others, (our team) received no funding, had only one coach, and did not have an Ethics Bowl class,” Hawili wrote in an email. “We were extremely handicapped, but our immovable determination pushed us to surmount these unfavorable odds.”

Although the Ethics Bowl is a courteous debate among collegiate peers, the atmosphere is nothing like an average classroom debate. Teams converse honestly about the topics while the judges observe the coherence of the philosophical arguments.

“The Ethics Bowl competition is a crucible of fierce competition,” Hawili

said. “There are teams here that dedicate multiple hours to preparation for this event, even going so far as to have entire departments funneling grant money to train them to win championships. For the most part, participants tend to act cordially toward one another, though the tension is so palpable you can cut it with a knife.”

The team wasted no time at the start of the semester and began preparations for the competition during meeting times and on their own.

“We met once a week throughout the semester to go over the cases.

Individually, we spent a lot of time researching like cases and further developing our philosophical arguments,” said Nicole D. Pacheco, a first semester team member.

Pacheco enjoyed the competition experience, but enjoys the company of her team and mentor most of all.

“Truly the best part about being on the team is my team members. We work as a well oiled machine. Also, Dr. Arvan is an incredible coach, professor and philosopher and getting insight on his philosophical views and advice on philosophical thinking has been invaluable, ” she said.

Dr. Marcus Arvan, an assistant professor of philosophy, has been the coach of the Ethics Team for six years and praises the students for their hard work.

“I am so proud of everyone on the team, for all of the hard work they put in, for how they worked together, and of course for their stellar performance,” he said. “They are all the embodiment of everything that is so great about UT.” The team went undefeated in the

Southeast Regional Ethics Bowl besting teams such as US Naval Academy, Auburn University, Seton Hall, Barry University, and Eckerd College. The team will advance to the national competition on Feb. 22 in Costa Mesa, California.

The Ethics Bowl Speech and Debate Team’s continued rigorous preparations prove that they do not lead the typical student lifestyle. Teammates, however, enjoy the stimulation and competition. “(The best part is) inquiring, pressing, yearning and being challenged by fellow teammates. Looking at every detail to see if it is true,” Connor M. Cloherty said. “Pursuing answers to difficult cases. In a nutshell: to question everything. There is a sense of liberation in it.”

Cloherty has been a member of the Ethics Bowl team for a year and is confident in the team’s ability to continue their success. After celebrating their recent win, Ethics Bowl team members can still be found meeting for hours on Fridays, poring tirelessly over arguments, examining them from every angle and trying to imagine how their national competitors will try to discredit their positions. They hope to bring more than success home to share with the rest of campus.

“The desire of this team is to continue the trend of bringing UT to the top. To develop its national image,” Cloherty said. “When one thinks of UT, we want society to see an institution that is comparable to Ivy League schools.”

Mia Glatter can be reached at mia. glatter@theminaretonline.com

‘Some people assume my artwork is dark because of the dull colors I use but that’s not always the case.’

Allison Nill strives to become established in art scene From ARTIST Page 1

sun was up to complete eight pieces.

“Sometimes I’m in [the Scarfone studio] the entire night. One time I was in there, I pretty much spent the night and I didn’t even realize it when I looked up from my painting it was 6 a.m.,” Nill said.

“Some people assume my artwork is dark because of the dull colors I use but that’s not alway the case” Nill said.

For each of the pieces she uses a piece of wood in the background to create the same texture for each. She also concocts the same ingredients for each painting acrylic, ink, oil and charcoal for each.

Many of her paintings include several similar aspects such as the same shades of black, tan, and brown, along with aspects of contorted figures that are almost blurred between the foreground and middleground.

“Just because it looks dark it might not be necessarily what I’m trying to convey,” Nill said. “You have to look at the theme to decide what the artist is trying to portray through all the pieces. Its different but now that I’m learning these different approaches it’s helping me become better.”

She has done various freelance work including, creating an album cover for the band All That Is On My Mind. Nill previously attended the University of

Colorado, where she met the band and was then asked to make their album cover.

In the course of several years her work has been displayed in the Scarfone Gallery including Katy, Look Inside, and Jayme.

In the special problems painting course, advanced painting students are given the freedom to create their own subjects.

“What you’re doing is making inspiring work around your artist statement,” Nill said. “So you develop a concept that you like and all the work you make during that semester goes along with that.”

Nill plans on either taking taking a year off to do a internship and then going to grad school. “In the art world in order to be really respected you need to have your masters,” Nill said.

“I also want to learn more because everyone teaches different styles.”

“I want to sell my artwork and have my artwork in different galleries,” Nill said.

Nill hopes to work for a big company like Nickelodeon or MTV where she could be given a position as a creative director.

Theresa Stanton can be reached at theresa.stanton@spartans.ut.edu

Mia Glatter/ The Minaret Allison Nill has been experimenting in different mediums like sculptuing since changing her major to art .

NEWS + FEATURES

THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 13 2014

Students have a hard time grasping culture From ADJUSTMENT Page 1 time management problems are just me being lazy, not because I don’t know how to manage my time.” Laziness is something that may hinder students’ ability to manage their time during their transition to UT, but not all students have developed time management habits such as Stewart.

Stewart likes to spend her free time hanging out at the pool and chatting with people in her dorm. She also loves how beautiful campus is, and enjoys walking around and appreciating the weather. Quite similarly, Victor Philaire, a freshman finance major from Agen, France enjoys Tampa weather in contrast to the rain and clouds he is used to seeing back home. Philaire is a member of the UT swim team and has been swimming for 13 years. Since Philaire had been to the states two times before coming to UT, he said he was prepared for American culture.

It appears there have been quite a few differences when it comes to swimming, such as the increased strictness of the NCAA. “Basically we don’t really have swimming teams in france in high school or in college,” said Philaire, “so it’s a group of 10-15 swimmers in clubs.” Even though he previously swam on a club team, he devoted about the same amount of time to swimming as he does here at UT, but at home he never had to wake up for a 6 AM practice.

Although a demanding schedule is something he is used to, Philaire, as well as other college athletes, experience a much different lifestyle than your average

NARP (non-athletic regular person).

Philaire laughed as he discussed what he does with the little free time he has.

“I go out, especially on the weekend,” said Philaire, “maybe to the beach on Saturdays. But during the week it’s mainly swimming, sleeping, studying, classes, and eating.” This type of lifestyle is not something he minds, as he mentioned he likes to manage his time by juggling his studies and swimming.

College education in the U.S. is completely different when compared to French universities. In France the educational options are very limited.

Students choose their paths by taking a large exam in either sciences and math, economics, social sciences and math, or languages and philosophy. Philaire seemed to be very passionate about his finance major. “Finally I have found something I really like after 18 years,” said Philaire. Finance is a subject he wouldn’t have been able to take immediately back home because it would require an even higher level of education.

Philaire is enjoying his time here at UT. He said he has been able to make a lot of friends on and off of the swim team, and stays in contact with his family and friends at home. “I don’t miss home honestly,” said Philaire, “I’m fine here.”

We are very lucky to attend a school with so much diversity. Students who come from different backgrounds are what make our school so unique. Exposing ourselves to different cultures and outlooks is easy to do considering our school is relatively small. This exposure compliments the quality education we receive here at UT by assisting us when it comes to broadening our horizons. There’s definitely a lot to learn from the students who go here and everyone should take advantage of that.

Elizabeth Rockett can be reached at elizabeth.rockett@spartans.ut.edu

Shabbat Dinner: Open to All Students

By FATIN AMIN News Writer

The Hillel Student Organization is holding a Shabbat dinner for the student body that will take place at the Rathskeller on Nov. 14 at 8 p.m. Students of all beliefs are able to attend the Shabbat to experience a traditional Jewish dinner.

Shabbat dinners are usually done every Friday, but the group has decided to make it once a month so all students can attend.

This event will be held on November 14 at 8 p.m. in Rathskellar.

Lianna Kendig, a junior English major and is not a Jewish student, is excited that Hillel is having a Shabbat dinner for all students to experience.

“I think it’s great UT hosts events on campus and doesn’t turn anyone down due to religion, race and orientation,” Kendig said.

“UT prides itself on the diversity of the campus, so it’s nice to see them actually believing what they say they do.”

Hillel Student Organization is a relatively new group for Jewish students on campus.

Jewish members are able to seek counseling for their religion and the organization provides cultural and religious services. The organization was established five years ago for the 2014-2015 year.

Erica Stein, a sophomore business major, practices Judaism and explains how great Hillel is for making Shabbat dinners available to students.

“I think it’s nice that Hillel has Shabbat dinners because we aren’t able to be home with our families,” Stein said. “So it’s nice to be around and celebrate with other people and friends who have the same beliefs.”

Shabbat dinners start off with three blessings that consist of blessing over wine, blessing over the lighting of two candles and blessing over the Challah. Challah is a traditional meal that Jewish families eat during Shabbat. Its a type of

bread made with egg and braided to symbolize the three traditional Shabbat meals. Shabbat dinners are usually known as family events but at UT, students will be able to celebrate it with their friends.

Josh Dinner, the new director for Hillel, elaborated on the events and services the organization had to offer.

“Prior to the 2014-2015 school year, Shabbat dinners were the only events Hillel hosted,” Dinner said. “We have hosted a number of social events, including karaoke nights, we entered a team into this semester’s intramural volleyball league, and our Hillel: After Hours program offers students a place to relax, study, or just hang out with friends every Wednesday and Thursday evening in the Rathskeller.”

Hannah Levine, a junior psychology major and a member of Hillel, expressed why Shabbat is important and how it would benefit all students.

“I think having Shabbat dinners on campus is a great way to bring Jewish students together, and allow us to celebrate the weekend together,” Levine said. “It is also a great way for non-Jewish students to experience what Jewish families all over the world do on Friday nights. I love sitting with my family, and enjoying traditional foods like Matzo Ball soup and Challah.”

Levine explained that it is important for the group to give Jewish students the ability to celebrate Shabbat even if they are away from home. Hillel also tries to cater to students with different beliefs to so that they can experience Shabbat.

“The purpose of Shabbat is to allow students to keep the same traditions they had at home, at school,” Levine said. “It also allows students who were never able to experience a Shabbat dinner at home have one here at UT. It also lets non-Jewish students experience the family and friendship we all feel when we get together on Fridays.”

Fatin Mohamad Amin can be reached at f.mohamadamin@spartans.ut.edu

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6 NOVEMBER 13 2014 | THE MINARET

ON CAMPUS OFF CAMPUS NOVEMBER 14 Movie: Nothing LIke the Holidays Enjoy “Nothing Like the Holidays,” a free holiday movie at Reeves Theater from 8:00 10:00 p.m. Student ID is required.

NOVEMBER 16

NOVEMBER 13 Jobsite Theater brings to the stage the bitter rivalry of two seductive vampiresses whose paths collide in ancient Sodom. The show takes place in Straz Theater at 8:00 p.m.

Unshmacked Presentation Hear what students have to say about the perks of being sober and “unshmacked.”

The event is free and takes place in Reeves Theater from 10:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

NOVEMBER 18 Come support your fellow Spartans in the Bob Martinez Athletic Center at 7:00 p.m.

The game is $5 and free with a UT ID. NOVEMBER 19

Variety Show Two men put on an inspirational and comedic show about underdogs and lifelong struggles. The event takes place at Reeves Theater from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. and is free with a student ID.

NOVEMBER 15 Head to Inkwood to talk Florida literature with author Andrew Plattner from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Hemingway cocktails will be served during happy hour at 5:30 p.m.

NOVEMBER 16 Electronic Dance Music hotspot Hogan’s Beach hosts Italian DJ Benny Benassi at 12:00 p.m. Ticket prices range from $15 to $30.

NOVEMBER 1

Ice Palace at International Plaza The International Plaza will transform into a 30-foot dome with snow, light shows and interactive snow globes depicting scenes from Frozen. The event is free and opens at 10:00 a.m.

websudoku.com

PICTURE of theWEEK

Photo by Alexandra Martin

Chocolate Pi, located at the Epicurean Hotel on S. Howard Ave., offers a variety of specialty deserts such as macarons, pastries, ice cream and coffee for reasonable prices.

THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 13 2014

7

Arts + Entertainment Writer

In traditional yoga, savasana invites the mat. Every Thursday night, however, I am At the end of Swing Yoga, the tool used to twist and transform becomes a place of rest.

The swing is stretched out into a hammock, and the body is gently rocked back and forth. In that moment, I am weightless. I am safe. I reach santosha, contentment, and am grateful for all that I have.

Aerial Yoga, also called Anti-Gravity Yoga, or Swing, combines aerial silk work with traditional yoga. The practice uses only one silk or ‘swing,’ similar to a hammock, and can be raised or lowered depending on the pose. Physically, it increases the achieved in traditional yoga, and requires a strong sense of balance. Spiritually, yoga is about awareness. The practice allows us to enjoy the present moment and let go. In Swing, the practitioner is able to feel the bliss of mid-air suspension and experience a sense of swadhyaya, self-discovery. It allows us to bring our own self-expression feels good.

I had never given much thought to yoga before, having ruled it out as an option after my surgery. At sixteen, I underwent spinal fusion, a procedure in which titanium rods are welded to either side of the spine.

The procedure corrected my scoliosis, but taught me aerial silk had moved away, the instructor that followed told me I didn’t continue. I poked around online and found the classes for conditioning, something to build me up before I went back into silk.

For the last few weeks of summer, I took Beginner Aerial Yoga with Nanette Weston, instructor. While we used the silk to stretch into yoga poses like pigeon and scorpion, the class mainly centered on strength. She took my bionic back into consideration, whipped me into shape. I would later learn that Nanette’s class was more hammock silk work, a variation of traditional aerial silk, than actual aerial yoga. when I realized that a rebirth was taking place. A Sanskrit mantra was playing on loop, and Monica, the instructor, was talking about new beginnings. I had just Yoga Downtown Tampa. In Monica’s class, we used the silk to come into belly hangs, things I had already learned from Nanette. there was no mirror in front of me. I panicked. How was I supposed to become airborne if I couldn’t see what I was doing?

I inhaled, held the silk to my tailbone and jumped back into a straddle, hanging upside down with both legs pointed towards the sky.

My posture could have been incorrect, the person next to me may have had better form, but I couldn’t tell. I had only the white wall in front of me. A woman shouted that

Photos provided by Lauren Milici After undergoing spinal infusion surgery at age 16, junior Lauren Milici now attends arial yoga class-

she felt weightless. I closed my eyes and nodded. On the ground, we stretched into basic postures like cat-cow and downward facing dog. We stood tall in tadasana and sat with legs folded in sukhasana. We moved on the breath, deepening the inhale and lengthening the exhale. At the end of class, she instructed us to stretch out our silks and lie back inside them. As I closed my washed over me - I had managed to stay present throughout the entire class. I went sixty minutes without a stray thought or daydream. I focused on the journey between able to get out of my head and fully enjoy an experience. This was the start of a new path.

Having completed Swing 101 & 102, day of class, I learned my second lesson in yoga - self-expression. Because yoga joins spirituality with wellness, the practice is often seen as serious, and even strict. Before we began, Francine introduced herself. She talked about how she came to yoga, and explained why YDT advertises these classes as Swing, rather than aerial. “I had a hard time dealing with how serious everyone in the yoga community was. I believe we can approach our practice with joy, exuberance, and a little laughter. Swing brings your

mind back to your childhood and the on a swing.”

During Swing 101 & 102, Monica had played soft, meditative music, recited a mantra and talked about Ganesha, the Hindu god of wisdom and learning. Francine, however, put on electronic dance music, dimmed the lights, and turned on a black light. The silks glowed. Our shirts glowed.

It felt like a rave. When we came into our belly hangs, the class broke loose. In a belly hang, the arms and legs are straight and the body swings back and forth, supported by the silk. Instead of keeping the movement slow and methodical, we pushed off the ground and picked up speed. Francine yelled, “Wheeeee!” and everyone joined her.

I felt like Superman. Moreover, I felt free. It dawned on me that we are allowed to bring our own self-expression to the mat because it is our practice. Yoga has no uniform.

Within that same week, I began Winged Warriors. This is where I would spend nearly every Thursday night for the next three months. I was told that Debbie’s Flying Asana was strength-based, and that Jenna’s Winged Warriors focused more on What if my metal back gave out in the middle of class? The room was divided.

The advanced yogis bunched up into one side of the room, while the beginners

directed us from the center of the room. Just as I suspected, my body refused most of the poses that required a spinal twist.

I watched the advanced girls take each move a step farther and contort in a way I’d never seen before. I was grateful that I had enough upper-body strength to climb up the silk and pull myself into diaper, a hipopener that takes the body higher off the ground. From there, Jenna added another move, one that involved a fully body twist.

The back leg is raised behind, the chest opens and the arms outstretched like wings.

It was graceful, and I couldn’t do it. I sat in diaper and watched the rest of the class.

Jenna walked over.

“I don’t think my back will let me,” I said. Carefully, she twisted me up and over into the posture. I couldn’t straighten my back leg, open my chest much, or let go of I wasn’t in pain. I wanted to cry. It was a tiny victory. I wasn’t as stiff or immobile as I thought, or as that silk instructor had made me feel. Jenna smiled. “It’s just a matter of building muscle in the lower back. You’ll get there.”

How can we progress if we keep beating ourselves up about things beyond our control? We all possess the capability to achieve goals or dreams, no matter how small they might be. It’s a matter of letting go of self-doubt and quieting the inner critic.

We have to nurture the self.

My journey has only just begun. This practice has allowed me to transform, physically and spiritually and become my best self. Each week I am surrounded by incredible women whose journeys inspire my own. I have a greater sense of selfawareness. I am stronger in all aspects. I am kinder to my body by way of self-love and nourishment. I approach new challenges on autopilot. I am able to stay present and enjoy the ride. I have learned how to want what I already have, and realize that what I need is right in front of me. Om namah shivaya gurave. I bow to the goodness within myself, the true Eternal Teacher.

Lauren Milici can be reached at Lauren. milici@spartans..ut.edu.

8 NOVEMBER 132014 | THE MINARET Crowbar delivers an impressive Indie lineup on Saturday, Nov. 8.

Arts + Entertainment Writer

Crow Bar, a small venue in Ybor City centered around an even smaller stage, supplied an intimate setting for an evening of eclectic performances.

Electro-pop groups Mike mains and the Branches, Coin and Jukebox the Ghost packed the house Saturday, Nov. 8.

Alcoholic beverages were advertised on every square inch of the establishment, and Pabst Blue Ribbon promotions were made just as prominent as the band’s logos on the stage.

To kick off the night, Mike Mains and the Branches presented the crowd with a performance that strayed furthest from the pop sphere and closest to the indie rock. The group performed their hit “Everything’s Gonna Be Alright” off of their newest album Calm Down, Everything is Fine and engaged the audience as a lively chorus singing (more like screaming) the lyrics, “everything is fine,” while the lead singer Mike Main wailed on his guitar.

The four-piece band Coin took the stage next, showcasing an upbeat collection of songs that had the

crowd grooving to every tune. Coin’s electro-rock sound is similar to that of Two Door Cinema Club, and their set featured songs off of their upcoming album, soon to be released this January.

Coin opened with “I would,” an upbeat tune that exemplified the lead singer Chase Lawrence’s vocals and insane piano skills. The crowd responded enthusiastically to the band’s vibrant performance, but the audience’s excitement truly peaked when the band covered Simon and Garfunkel’s “Cecelia”.

Described by Mike Main as the type of music you want to blast with the windows down in your T-bird in the mid 1980s, Coin revealed to an eager fan that this performance was one of a kind; due to the upcoming release of their newest album, the band will not be performing the songs “Honey” and “It’s Okay” live again.

Chase Lawrence, a recent graduate from Belmont University, explained that the label and will be doing away with those two songs and replacing them with the material they have spent all summer putting together.

Jukebox The Ghost, emerging onto the dimly lit Crow Bar stage, was greeted by a roar of excitement from the hipster masses. They opened with a performance of “Sound of a Broken Heart,” a track off

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

Jukebox the Ghost/ Flickr.com

Ben Thornewill, lead singer of Jukebox the Ghost, performed at the Crowbar on Nov 8.

of their new self-titled album released just two weeks ago.

This album ventures into more of a pop realm, which is a drastic change from their prior indie rock feel.

Nonetheless, their loyal fans, sporting their Jukebox The Ghost tattoos, welcomed the change.

Ben Thornewill, the band’s lead singer and pianist, revealed that he loves the Tampa fans for the fact that they “do not mess around.”

He pleased the diehard fans with performances of some of their older tunes like “Empire”, “Hold It In”, and

“Static To The Heart”.

Jesse Kristin, the band’s drummer who sported a Lou Reed tee and a fedora, ventured out of the comfort of his drum set to the mic stand performing the song “Hollywood” from their new album.

Despite the recent changes the band has been experiencing, they still pleased their loyal fans and will surely continue to do so with the years to come.

Madison Kazar can be reached at Madison.kazar@spartans.ut.edu.

Dali Museum Keeps It Surreal With Picasso Exhibit The Picasso exhibit at the Dali Museum runs from Nov. 8 to Feb. 16 Arts + Entertainment Writer

their time, human anguish, and war.

Early on in their careers, both artists saw women as inspirational muses.

However, in the 1920s, women transformed quickly from muses to monsters for both Picasso and Dalí.

Large electronic displays are mounted on a wall in each section and give information about Dalí and Picasso’s continuing similarities as their careers progressed. Some of these facts include that both artists had exhibits in the Galerie Charles Ratton, did covers for Minotaure Magazine, and illustrated major works of literature.

An entire section is devoted to showcasing Picasso and Dalí’s mutual obsession with Diego Velázquez and their own interpretations of his work and subject matter.

The image visitors are left with is Dalí’s Portrait of Pablo Picasso

in the Twenty-first Century hanging next to Picasso’s Painter at Work, which is believed to be a self-portrait.

Picasso’s portrait contains muted tones and a watered down use of the cubist technique he’s so famous for.

It is easy to distinguish an artist, in a blue and white striped shirt, holding a pallet and touching a brush to an easel. In contrast, Dalí’s portrait shows a bust of the artist with large ram horns, a melting chest, and a lock of hair that goes through his neck and out his mouth, ending in a spoon that cradles a mandolin. If it weren’t for the word “PICASSO” largely painted in the right hand corner of the canvas, the bust, whose nose also hooks through his non-existent eye, would be unrecognizable. While Picasso’s intention was only to reflect on the image of the artist, not himself

Picasso. Dalí used symbolism to allude to Picasso’s intellectualism, sentimentality, and internal artistic vision.

Though Picasso never officially identified as surrealist, he has been featured in many surrealist exhibits alongside his good friend Dalí, now including this one. After a threemonth stay at the Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, the exhibition will spend another three months in the Museu Picasso in Barcelona. Until then, be sure to make your way downtown with $17 and your student ID to see one of the first side-by-side exhibits of two talented men who forever changed the way art is understood.

Walking into the Special Exhibition Gallery on the third floor of the Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, visitors are immediately greeted by a contemplative stare and the beginnings of an infamous mustache. These two large gelatin silver prints of photographs taken by Man Ray show a 48-year-old Pablo Picasso and a 25-year-old Salvador Kara Delemeester can be reached at Dalí. This special exhibition, running Kara.delemeester@spartans.ut.edu. from Nov. 8 to Feb. 16, continues with this paired theme and takes a side-by-side look at the surreal greatness of these two highly influential artists.

The artists met in 1926 and formed a fast friendship that sometimes twisted into a rivalry. Despite their occasional artistic feuds, one part of the exhibit contains the postcards that Dalí annually sent to Picasso. Each one contained the enigmatic phrase “in July neither women nor snail,” which they have both been told by a friend on separate occasions.

The exhibit moves swiftly from their early to late work, taking a look at everything from sketches, to sculptures, to well-known paintings.

The shoulder-to-shoulder layout of the gallery highlights similarities in the artists’ careers that visitors may never have previously realized. Both artists experimented with cubism and surrealism, and used their work Salvador Dali/ Flickr.com to comment on the happenings of The Picasso exhibit at the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Pete, running until Feb. 16, displays works from the surrealist painters.

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 13 2014

9

Arts + Entertainment Writer

Meet Hiro Hamada (voiced by Ryan Potter), a young boy with a knack for technology who is usually found hustling competitors in the underground robot-fighting rings of San Fransokyo.

San Fransokyo basically speaks for itself: a futuristic high-tech combination of San Francisco and Tokyo, where the Golden Gate Bridge incorporates Japanese architecture and lanterns hang from trolley cars. While Hiro wastes his skills to score some cash, his brother, Tadashi (voiced by Daniel Henney), attends an advanced robotics college where assignments range from creating electromagnetic bicycles to splicing objects into mere pieces in milliseconds. Tadashi persuades Hiro to put his inventiveness to good use by participating in a robotics convention.

Hiro’s presentation of his telepathically controlled microbots proves to be a success and he is instantly offered a spot at the robotics college. In the opening of the film, the audience quickly learns that Hiro’s parents died when he was three and he makes it clear to his brother that Hiro did not know his parents long enough for them to have impact on his life.

The viewer has a miniscule amount of hope that maybe Disney won’t show the death of a family member during the film then. However, a fire breaks out and Tadashi sacrifices himself trying to save Dr. Callahan (voiced

by James Cromwell), a professor who created the infrastructure for Hiro’s countless ideas.

While mourning the loss of his

Big Hero 6/ Flickr.com Big Hero 6, co-directed by Don Hall and Chris Williams, topped box office sales on its opening weekend with an impressive and unexpected $56.2 million.

brother, Hiro is greeted by Baymax (voiced by Scott Asdit), a warm blob of love that Tadashi left behind after his death. Baymax’s sole purpose is to help others in distress. When Hiro realizes that his micro-bot technology has been stolen, Hiro convinces Baymax that he will not be satisfied until he figures out who is responsible for Tadashi’s death. Hiro and Baymax recruit Tadashi’s eccentric classmates: Wasabi (Damon Wayans Jr.), Go Go (Jamie Chung), Honey Lemon (Genesis Rodriguez) and Fred (T.J. Miller). With some major upgrades, they become the “Big Hero 6”.

“Big Hero 6” mainly focuses on the struggle of losing a loved one. Although the concept is rather

Arts + Entertainment Writer

Though superhero films are popular, critics generally dismiss the actors who portray these franchise juggernauts as inferior. In “Snowpiercer” and “The Iceman”, Chris Evans dispels these opinions by playing more than the typical superhero. While the vast majority of the public were anticipating Evans’ beautiful face and physique in “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” two films that showcased a broader range of acting depth came and went. Luckily for audiences, they have entered the theater afterlife, aka Netflix.

Snowpiercer (2013)

What is it? Based off the French graphic novel, “Le Transperceneige,” this film is an icy dystopian world set about seventeen years in the future.

To combat global warming, a slew of countries released an airborne agent into the atmosphere to cool down the earth. This agent worked to the extreme, freezing the planet to such subzero temperatures that no life would survive. Enter Snowpiercer, a circumnavigating, self-sustaining locomotive built by the venerated Mr. Wilford. Now, seventeen years after this unnatural disaster, the train has been separated into class cars, those at the back of the train live life in squalor, while those in front live a life of luxury. It is up to Curtis

heavy, “Big Hero 6” manages to form a balance between emotional breakthroughs and humor. At one point, the viewer wonders, “Am I in tears from laughing or crying?” A scene where Hiro is mourning over the death of his brother is minutes later followed by Hiro and Baymax’s hysterically worthless attempt at sneaking into a warehouse in order to find the micro-bots. The film tends to be fuzzy when it comes to its moral. Hiro’s inability to let go of his brother’s death makes him cling to Baymax and the obsession of another character (he who will not be named) over a death of his loved one actually leads to an utterly important discovery. Fortunately for the

writers, the audience is so entranced by the action that these details are overlooked.

“Big Hero 6” is the warm, gooey product of stirring together The Incredibles, How to Train Your Dragon, and Real Steel and baking it in the oven. As a whole, it engages the viewer and at many times, makes them envious of the futuristic society of San Fransokyo, especially when it’s in 3D. Although the moral may be muddled at times, Hiro’s struggle pours salt on any open wounds the viewer may have. By the end of the film, you will want a Baymax of your own.

Spencer (“The Help,” “Being John Malkovich”), John Hurt (“V for Vendetta,” “Alien”), Tilda Swinton (“The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe”; “We Need to Talk About Kevin”), and Kang-ho Song (“The Host,” “Memories of Murder”) all deliver vivid performances. Arguably the best part of this film is its authentic feel. True, there are some fantastical elements to this film, but the events that occur throughout Snowpiercer all seem plausible. While the ending is very existential and a bit disconnected from the rest of the story, this film is a visually rich narrative driven by plot and character.

the affairs of the household. Richard Kuklinski is able to deceive/hide from his family the facts of what his job really is during his entire career.

Why you should be watching: The Iceman isn’t a typical gangster film.

Interestingly, this narrative is more of a family drama, with the hits/killings as a backdrop to the real story— one that explains how a family man was able to balance being a loving, caring and well-providing husband while committing such heinous, merciless acts. In addition to the compelling story, the cast is equally compelling. While Chris Evans isn’t the star of this film, his character, Robert ‘Mr. Freezy’ Pronge, plays an important role. Evans’ character is also a hitman, though he looks more like a pedophile than a contract killer (the fact that he drives and operates a beat-up ice cream truck solidifies that look). The supporting cast of this film includes Winona Ryder (“Edward Scissorhands,” “Black Swan”) playing Kuklinski’s wife, Ray Liotta (“Goodfellas,” “Identity”) as Kuklinski’s boss, and features somewhat surprising appearances by James Franco (“127 Hours,” “This is the End”) and David Schwimmer (“Friends,” “Madagascar”). The Iceman is a thrilling, intimate story that captivates one’s full attention from start to finish.

Chris Evans/ Wikimedia.org

Films featuring Evans are now on Netflix.

Everett (played by Evans) to lead the tail section in a futuristic peasant’s revolt. Directed by South Korean filmmaker Joon-ho Bong, in his English-language film debut, this film is a thrilling ride from start to finish.

Why you should be watching: For those who love dystopian or social justice entertainment, Snowpiercer is a must watch. In this film, Evans truly proves the depth of his acting ability. His character, Curtis Everett, is complex. On the one hand, he is a heroic leader, unifying his people; on the other, he is nearly a coward, full of guilt and self-doubt. And Evans’ character isn’t the only one who shines in this dark tale. Octavia

What is it? The Iceman is based on the true story of mobster hitman Richard Kuklinski, played brilliantly

by Michael Shannon (“Man of Steel,” “Take Shelter”). A wonderful period piece that neither condones nor condemns its protagonist. Rather, this narrative chooses to focus on the complexities of a man who, following a childhood full of abuse, is an emotional time bomb who cares about nothing except his wife and daughters. Despite the dark overtone of this film, a surprisingly touching story unfolds. The Iceman effectively represents the family atmosphere and dynamic of the 1960s-1980s as the husband/father provides for the family, and is in complete control of

Sammi Brennan can be reached at Samantha.brennan@spartans.ut.edu.

Claire Farrow can be reached at Claire.farrow@spartans.ut.edu.

10 NOVEMBER 13 2014 | THE MINARET

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

Master It Graduate Open House Reception Thursday, Nov. 13, 6-8 p.m.

Vaughn Center, ninth floor Join us for a Graduate Open House Reception to learn more about UT’s graduate degrees! Talk with faculty, admissions counselors, academic advisers, graduate students and alumni about the following programs: Business • MBA (seven concentrations) • M.S. in Accounting • M.S. in Finance • M.S. in Marketing • Certificate in Nonprofit Management • Certificate in Accounting • Certificate in Business Administration Exercise Science and Nursing • M.S. in Exercise and Nutrition Science • M.S. in Nursing Education • M.S. in Instructional Design and Technology • Master of Education Creative Writing • MFA in Creative Writing

RSVP at www.ut.edu/gradvisit.

THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 13 2014

OPINION

11

Voters Need To Be Attracted to Values, Not Labels

By OLIVIA REEB Opinion Writer

You should not let your political party limit voting choices It’s important for people to have their own set of beliefs based on hard facts rather than blindly following the practices of any specific political party. Identifying as Democratic or Republican should not dictate the way a person votes, feels about political issues, or views people of the opposite party. The division of the United States based on labels needs to stop. It’s okay to have opposing viewpoints, but hating a person because they’re a Democrat or a Republican without actually speaking to them is nothing but stereotyping.

Agreeing with a particular person because they’re in the same political party is just as wrong.

Many Republicans hate Democrats and therefore vote against Obama.

This hatred can possibly stem from conservative news sites painting the Democrats in a bad light, posts on social media talking about how much they hate Obama, or coming from a Republican family and being brought up to hate Democrats. There’s also the issue that some people from either side

DonkeyHotey/ Flickr

Voters need to pay more attention to ideals instead of party labels when it comes to voting.

of the political spectrum are just plain stubborn and unwilling to accept any views other than their own.

The House of Representatives is projected to have 246 seats designated to Republicans, the largest majority since WWII, according to CNN. The gubernatorial election here in Florida between Charlie Crist and Rick Scott was one of negativity, putting the opposite candidate in a bad light rather than running based on personal political platforms and goals for the state, according to USA Today. The campaigns were incredibly negative from both Scott and Crist. Crist had an ad directly blaming, “guys like Rick Scott” for crashing the economy. Scott had an

The University of Tampa Department of Speech, Theatre and Dance Presents

Les M iserables A New Production of Boublil and Schönberg’s

Directed by Paul E. Finocchiaro

•

Musical Direction by Tara Richards Swartzbaugh

Nov. 20, 21, 22 at 8 p.m. • Nov. 23 at 2 p.m.

Falk Theatre

428 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa General Admission Cost: $15 Non-UT Students and Seniors: $10 UT Students, Faculty and Staff: Free w/ID (813) 253-6243 • www.ut.edu Les Misérables is licensed by Theatre International (MTI) by arrangement with Cameron MacKintosh LTD. Photo Credit: Deen van Meer • Poster Design: Julia Rifino, UT Class of 2017

ad that shot down Crist’s platform rather than promoting his own.

People tend to take these advertisements at face value although much of the stuff is false and they aren’t even produced by the candidates, but from independent groups affiliated with each party, which can be found in small print at the end of the ads. People who voted for Scott, the Republican winner of the gubernatorial, said that the main reason they voted for him was to keep Crist out of office, according to USA Today. Their votes weren’t based on facts and research, they were out of hatred of Crist.

Another reason for the Republican party taking over the senate is the fact that many young people don’t vote. In fact, only only 13 percent of the voters in the recent election were 18-29 years old, according to the Pew Research Center. In general, young people and minorities are more likely to be Democratic, according to MSNBC. However, the Democratic party doesn’t really push any political issues that will convince young people to vote besides an occasional mention of student loan debt, according to MSNBC. Another problem is that it’s difficult for outof-state college students to vote.

Twenty-three percent of college students said they didn’t vote because they were away from home, according to the 2010 census. I’m registered to vote back home in New York, but didn’t know how to get registered to vote here in Florida.

Neither political party has everything right, that’s why they’re divided into political parties. Thus, joining a specific party and saying, “These are my beliefs because my party says so, everything else is wrong” is childish. Speaking like this makes a person sound uneducated.

To believe in something without even knowing what you’re believing in is just wrong. It’s alright to believe that gun control laws are unnecessary, but have a few facts to back up why you feel that way. It’s alright to believe in a woman’s right to abortion, but do a little research and be able to

back yourself up with statistics. It’s ridiculous that some people feel and react so strongly about some topics, but know only the bare minimum, if anything at all, about them. Blindly following a party is like blindly following… anything, really. Open your eyes and educate yourself on whatever topics you so choose.

If you haven’t yet seen the Jimmy Kimmel video about Obamacare versus the Affordable Care Act (ACA), I recommend you watch it. The skit shows people talking about how much they hate Obamacare but aren’t opposed to the ACA. Obamacare is just a nickname for the ACA but random people on the streets are very against it. However, they support the ACA which, I’ll say again, are the exact same thing being called two different things. People are so quick to hate on the president before they even realize what he’s doing.

There’s also the issue of words like Democrat and Republican or Liberal and Conservative being used as derogatory terms rather than broad descriptive ones. The other day, I was called a “libtard” for speaking on a belief that I’ve thoroughly researched, but was differing from the opinion than the person I was speaking to, whose argument was based solely on stereotypes, racism, and a blind hatred of the liberal viewpoint.

I do not identify as liberal, or as any specific party for that matter, because my views on political policies span across the political spectrum.

However, using the word “retard” as an insult, even if it’s only half of the contraction, implies that being mentally disabled is the most horrible thing a person can be, which is incredibly offensive and untrue. Being uneducated, offensive, and derogatory, for example, are significantly worse than being disabled. But I digress, if we take the “retard” part out of the contraction of “libtard,” we get the use of the word “liberal” as an insult rather than a label of a series of beliefs. Peoples’ ignorance can lead them to hate liberalism, causing them to use words that don’t actually apply.

The liberals aren’t “socialists,” they stand for equal opportunities across the board for all Americans. They’re motivated to bring about positive change for the country.

A hatred of opposing viewpoints is not reason to vote a specific way in elections, hate on the president, or refer to people with those viewpoints in a derogatory manner. The fact of the matter is that the United States is too divided based on a label, Democrat or Republican, and the only way to overcome this is with education.

Olivia Reeb can be reached at olivia. reeb@spartans.ut.edu

12 NOVEMBER 13 2014 | THE MINARET

OPINION

Consumers Must Think Critically Regarding Media

By SAM ALLEN Opinion Writer

If I browse Facebook right now I am likely to run into at least three fake news articles.

Some articles are antagonistic, their only purpose is to trick the reader into spreading misinformation and others are sensationalized versions of the truth.

Regardless of their motive, one thing is clear: we need to change the way we read the news. When approached with new information, the immediate reaction of many people is to believe what they see, especially if the information is presented in a professional manner. When reading and watching the news, however, it is time we counter the information we are given with a level of doubt.

Think back to the Trayvon Martin case and the way the media handled his death. What many sensationalized criminal cases have in common today is the examination of character of both victim and suspect. In many cases, whether the suspect is guilty or not, the media will dig up anything they can about the person’s life in order to alter what the general public thinks of them, even before the evidence has been brought into question. The most recent example is the shooting of Michael Brown which sparked the Ferguson protests.

Many news outlets reported that Brown had marijuana in his system

when he was shot, as if that had any relevance to the case, which it did not. The only purpose for reporting such a trivial detail was to alter public opinion of Brown. In an article

by The Washington Post regarding the Brown investigation it was reported that, “Residents and protesters have noted that allegations of marijuana use have been used ... in an attempt to disparage the character of the shooting victim.” In addition, dozens of tweets by professional journalists and Ferguson residents circulated misinformation throughout the dilemma, “The events in Ferguson, Mo., have launched a familiar spectacle: the race to be wrong first,” notes an article by The Los Angeles Times. This practice, which should be frowned upon, is growing far more common in recent years and is the reason that we need to think about what we’re reading.

Ferguson protesters saw right through this report knowing that the articles were biased and held no connection to the shooting or any crime Brown may have committed earlier that evening. Some sensational news reports, however, are broadcasted with little to no dispute.

In an article entitled “7 Things I learned as an accomplice to Mass Murder,” Talia Jane explains how her life was changed when her mother supplied an alibi to two close friends while they went on a murder spree.

“Before her best friends went on a murder spree, my mother practiced and taught Wicca. The power of suggestion was right up her gullible little alley. She believed in Wicca

because it indirectly allowed her to believe in herself.”

The article goes on to point out that the media took this information and twisted Jane’s mother into a monstrous figure. Yes, she was an accomplice to murder, but her religion should never have been brought into question here, especially because true Wicca is a peaceful religion whose number one rule is “An it harm none, do what thy will.”

Jane was not by any means innocent.

However, it’s unethical to bring an irrelevant fact, such as the practice of Wicca into the mix especially if the purpose is to completely misrepresent both the religion and the woman in question. This is something the media does all the time to gain readers and adjust public opinion to their specific agendas and it’s important that readers don’t continue to fall for it. This information doesn’t mean anything, and yet readers eat it up and create an association between the two unrelated facts that is undeserved.

Think about it this way, if I were to be wrongly accused of a crime tomorrow, the media could paint me in one of two ways. Either the headline could read: “UT Honor Student Suspected of Crime” or “Goth Girl lead Suspect in Grisly Crime” based solely on whatever part of my life they feel the need to fixate on; some details aren’t even accurate, but in a media circus that doesn’t matter. The terrifying thing about this is that it can happen to anyone of us; innocent until proven guilty unless the media gets involved.

I would then be at the mercy of the

strangers in society who interpret this news article, whether it depicts me in a positive light or not.

What’s most important to consider here is regardless of where the information comes from, we must always think critically about what we’re reading. In many cases, the media will attempt to create a grandiose story for the buzz, but the story is not always as fantastical as they make it appear. If a news story seems particularly outlandish, check the sources before posting it on your Facebook wall. If the story is a hot subject that everyone is dying to get their hands on, perhaps wait until the craze dies down before buying into these reports.

Often in the rush to be the first to deliver the news, things get misreported. Fewer and fewer media outlets can avoid reporting without bias, so think about what the news channel you’re watching might want you to get out of this story. If a detail of the case that is reported doesn’t seem to have any relevance to the case at large, ignore it; it’s likely inserted into the story to change your opinion on it. While sensationalism is a huge part of our media outlets today it is certainly not the goal of every journalist. The challenge is to recognize the difference between a genuine article whose goal is to inform you on current events, and the sensational article which wants to reel you in for sales purposes.

Sam Allen can be reached at samantha. allen@spartans.ut.edu

Student Conduct Office Needs Organization and Efficiency

By EMILY SILVERMAN Opinion Writer

The Office of Student Conduct exists to provide students with fair punishments and ensure that the campus remains a safe and secure environment. With their contribution to the school’s safety, one would think it would have an organized, well-run office. In my experience, it isn’t. With the vital role the office plays in the lives of students, it is imperative that conduct pinpoints their issues, and fixes them. I recently crossed paths with the office and was astounded by the lack of help and abruptness I received from the staff. The following is my personal experience with student conduct, my opinion is evident, but you can draw your own conclusions.

My problem is not with what my punishment was; I am aware that I broke a school policy and understand that there are consequences to this.

Rather, my concern is with the way my case was handled. I arrived early

to my conduct meeting, cooperated with the woman I met with and complied with the sanctions I was given. Leaving this initial meeting, I expected that I would complete my sanctions and that would be that. I was wrong.

A few weeks later I realized that one of my sanctions had not been fully explained to me during my meeting and was actually going to be a lot more work than I had originally understood. Hoping to address my concern, I went back to the conduct office and asked if I was able to speak with the head of conduct. This is when my concern started. I was flat out denied the opportunity to meet with her due to the fact that she already had a full schedule. I then asked to schedule a meeting at a later date and was again dismissively told no, she’s too busy. Realizing that there was no way I was going to be able to speak with her, I asked if there was anyone else who might be able to help me who was actually available to meet with me at some point. The woman working the front desk then informed me that meetings were unavailable because the office was understaffed.

Students find themselves entangled with conduct issues all the time, and fulfilling sanctions, especially when you have never had to do so before, can be unbelievably confusing and frustrating. Because holds are placed on your account until your punishment is finished, having the ability to do so quickly and properly is of utmost importance to students. Students deserve to have the opportunity to meet with a staff member who can assist them should they run into obstacles or become confused about something during the process of completing sanctions. The Office of Student Conduct simply needs to have a sufficient number of staff members to make this a reality.

Unable to schedule a meeting, I decided to just go ahead and complete my sanctions, even though I did not fully understand them. In order to do this, I needed information explaining how to complete the next step in my process, which I had been told I would receive via email. I never recieved this email, and therefore could not move forward with my sanctions. When I returned to the office to request that they send me the email, the woman working

noticed that they had information regarding my sanctions entered incorrectly into the computer. I fully realize that mistakes happen, but with a well-organized system there would not be this many problems regarding one case. In order for students to respect decisions made by conduct, the office needs to handle cases in an organized and efficient manner.

Being faced with numerous obstacles throughout my experience with conduct led me to be unsure about the University of Tampa as a whole. If the Office of Student Conduct was understaffed and disorganized, were other offices struggling in the same way? My education is extremely important to me and I want to feel confident that the university I am paying to attend is well run. Hopefully the Office of Student Conduct will move past any issues they have been having due to being understaffed this semester, and students in the future will not have the same frustrating experience with them that I did.

Emily Silverman can be reached at emily.silverman@spartans.ut.edu

OPINION

THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 13 2014

13

Victoria’s Secret Offends Again With New Ad Campaign

By REBECCA TURNER Opinion Writer

Victoria’s Secret products are usually highquality and respectable, but apparently their advertising department doesn’t follow the same level of quality control. Recently, the company put out an advertisement for the Body

by Victoria line with the words “The Perfect Body” superimposed over eight models of a nearly identical body type: tall and very thin.

Supposedly, the words were meant to refer to the ‘body’ of their products, not the women, but the public viewed the advertisement felt that it was body-shaming, according to The Today Show. Even if that really isn’t the way it was intentioned, Victoria’s Secret made a colossal mistake by

publishing the advertisement.

The company published the ad and experienced the backlash of over 20,000 people, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer. Nearly every lingerie ad that we see today has tall and thin women scantily clad to show off the appeal of the product, so we find ourselves asking why Victoria’s Secret and their campaign are on a different level. It mainly has to do with their idiotic use of the word ‘perfect’ in their advertisement without a clear explanation as to what they intended. By displaying this trigger word over traditional models it makes it seem as if their nearly impossible to obtain, highly reliant on genetics body type is the only one that is accepted or beautiful. It’s ironic that a company who supposedly aims to make women feel comfortable with their bodies, by offering a wide variety of products which support different body types, is actually alienating many of the women it caters to.

After the campaign was initially

launched, women and men both joined in a Twitter campaign using the hashtag “Iamperfect” to fight against body-shaming women of the many shapes and sizes not depicted in the Victoria’s Secret ad. It was entirely unethical for the company to print an ad which seems to demonstrate that only one body type is ‘perfect’ in today’s world.

That’s exactly why another lingerie company, Dear Kate, launched its nearly identical advertisement where it swapped the ‘perfect’ models for women of common body types, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer. This was a smart move on Dear Kate’s part. They took advantage of the media storm to promote their product as being the conventional woman’s choice.

However, it would not have made sense for Victoria’s Secret to do a similar campaign.

If you scroll through Victoria’s Secret’s website, you’ll find that

Sarie.com

VS recently put out an offensive advertising campaign titled “The Perfect ‘Body’” and has since altered the wording to “A Body for Every Body.”

they have bra sizes ranging from a 32A to a 38DDD. This seems like a large range at first, but several of the women in the Dear Kate advertisement require larger sizes than Victoria’s Secret offers.

Victoria’s Secret uses thinner models in their advertisements, because they do cater to thinner people. However, it may be expected that a company based in the U.S., where obesity is a major problem, could be expected to cater to plus-sized women as well as thinner women, but it is not their current goal. Their egregious mistake was using the word ‘perfect’ and making it appear to be describing these women and their identical body type. It’s never a good move to make one type of person feel less than in order to sell a product to another, and that’s exactly what Victoria’s Secret managed to accomplish.

Nobody has a perfect body. While Victoria’s Secret did not intentionally convey that one body-type was the ‘perfect’ one, this was how the public saw it. Unfortunately, the company and its advertising team made a poor decision by using this ad which seems to say there is a perfect body-type, and it is the tall and thin body of a model. The wording along with the ad’s layout were all terrible choices in the advertisement of the line, but the company did do one good thing.

After the public disapproval, the wording over the image of the models was changed on the web version to read “A Body for Every Body.” As aforementioned, this still isn’t entirely correct, but it’s certainly a step in the right direction. Victoria’s Secret and its ad reminded us that we still have a long way to go in terms of bodyshaming in today’s society, but the public reaction also showed that it is being recognized, and change is being demanded and achieved.

Rebecca Turner can be reached at rebecca.turner@spartans.ut.edu

New #Life App Could be the Next Snapchat

By KATIE DRAKE Opinion Writer

What a surprise! Another new social media application scrapes the surface. Hashtag life or #Life, as it is on the actual mobile application, is a combination between Snapchat and Yik Yak where users can post anonymous photos; however, they are categorized by the hashtag that you use.

You might have seen a strange man walking around campus Monday asking people to take “selfies” on his cell phone. Actually, it is not as weird as it sounds, because he was promoting the app to UT students.

I noticed him walking table to table and thought it was super creepy until he came to mine. He was promoting

#Life which he said was already very active on the University of South Florida’s campus. I thought the app was pretty cool at first, like every new app is, but too similar to other social media apps… like I really need another app on my phone anyway. #Life lets you take an anonymous photo, unless you choose to reveal your face, and post them while allowing you to create five unique hashtags to match it. By using hashtags, photos get separated into different groups on a home screen page such as #UT, #USF or even #duckface. You can imagine that some of the hashtags are pretty ridiculous.

Each photo you click shows the views each photo has and then you can click up, like Yik Yak, but not down. The photos are supposed to disappear after a certain amount of time, but my photo is still there days later so that’s cool I guess…or creepy.

I’m sure the app will grow in popularity as all new apps do when everyone initially starts using them, especially when your friends use it. Even if you do not like the app, you will probably use it for a while or at least look at it when you are bored in class until the next new app is created. Just like every app ever created, some people will hate it and some will love it.

It turns out, the #Life promotor actually did teach me one useful tidbit of information: the ability to send immediate and mass advertisements for cool events going on here at UT. When being involved on campus, this could be useful tool.

Imagine yourself tabling in Vaughn Lobby and no one is stopping by your table. Maybe, just maybe, if you took a photo and put it on the app with the right hashtags, people might see it and stop by. This could be a useful

feature but other than that, the app isn’t anything too special. #Life allows people to see even more inappropriate photos that people can take without the process of selecting who you want to send the photo to. If your friend takes an embarrassing photo of you, too bad, because now anyone who has the app can see it. At least with Snapchat you can pick and choose who you send your photos to and if you feel like sharing them with multiple people, you have the option to add the photo to your story. #Life opens new doors as the photos you post are both public, and permanent until your photo gets deleted. Lastly, If you decide to use the app please keep the nudes to a minimum for everyone’s sake.

Katie Drake can be reached at katie. drake@spartans.ut.edu

14 NOVEMBER 13 2014 | THE MINARET

OPINION

Senior Send off: Terry “Sexpert” Preston SEX AND LOVE COLUMN

By TERRY PRESTON Opinion Columnist

After one incredible year, my time as the self-proclaimed “Carrie Bradshaw” of the University of Tampa has come to a close. What started out as a preference for discussing topics related to sex in the media became a serious focal point in my life—many of my experiences with intimacy, dating and relationships are embedded deep in the words of the column (sometimes with subtlety, other times with blatant “you know who you are” clues similar to the style of Taylor Swift). I have given all of myself to this column, so I couldn’t help but wonder—in the end, what do I have to show for it?

Photo provided by Terry Preston

Writing for The Minaret has been as much of a learning experience for myself as I hope it has been for its readers. Each article was written about a topic close to my heart, and I learned a majority of my thoughts and feelings on the subject while in the process of piecing together each and every column. Without this experience, I would not have discovered my comfort levels pertaining to specific topics (e.g. exactly how personal to be) or be nearly as comfortable with laying out my beliefs for the general public to digest. As a result, it has made me a stronger person-- I am more confident in my own voice (and sassy side commentary) than ever before.

Being a part of The Minaret has been a highlight of my college experience as a whole. I’ve grown so much as a writer, and have loved the experience of seeing my work broadcast throughout the university (a special thanks to all twenty of you that read my work). In the last year, I have found a home and a family in a community of creative minds, and my only regret is that I didn’t join this organization sooner. (And that I never had an inappropriate relationship with a professor—though that doesn’t mean I didn’t try).

Lastly, my experience as a columnist has instilled the meaning of accountability in me. I am a procrastinator—and though this was

never cured—the opinion section made it impossible for me to give up on writing just because I didn’t feel like it that week. Rather, the supportive (but often threatening) texts from my editor reminded me that when you are a part of something bigger, it isn’t okay to quit when you don’t want to try. Despite my efforts to take a couple weeks off, my editors refused, and for that I am grateful— for without them, I would have nothing to show for it.

Though my time in undergrad has come to a close, and it is difficult for me to imagine this column without myself being a part of it, I am pleased that it will be taken over by The Minaret’s very own Selene San Felice. Much like Hannah Webster did for me, I have grown to know her on a personal level and am confident that the column is being left in good hands—but I’ll keep reading it just to make sure.

My last piece of advice to new and current students alike is to treat every new experience, whether it be a club, sport, hobby, or any other activity, like your very first sexual encounter.

Recall the fear of coming face to face with the unknown, the soft shivers in your spine and the goose bumps on your skin. Remember what it was like to dive head-first into that unknown, only to come out on the other side and realize—it wasn’t so scary, after all.

With love and boners, Terrydactyl Terry Preston can be reached at terrence.preston@spartans.ut.edu

OPINION

THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 13 2014

15

Loopholes in Amendment Two Doomed its Chances

By CAITLIN MALONE Opinion Columnist

It did not get the 60 percent of votes that was necessary for it to pass As Election Day wound down, the breaking news of Amendment Two’s failing results shocked Floridians everywhere. I remained among the few who were not disappointed by the outcome as I voted no. While I don’t support the recreational use of marijuana and have never participated in it, I do believe that people who need it for medical reasons should have access. I voted no because medical marijuana already exists in the state of Florida. It was shocking to see how many people were aggravated by Tuesday night’s results when plenty of people already have access to medical marijuana if they need it. On June 14, 2014, Gov. Rick Scott signed a law allowing limited use of a special strain of marijuana for patients with epilepsy and other serious diseases, according to The Huffington Post, and therefore, I’m a little confused as to why everyone is so upset.

Amendment Two was just shy of the passing threshold on Tuesday, coming up with only 58 percent of the vote while it needed 60 percent to pass, according to The Washington Post. However, the amendment’s chances did not look promising during the days leading up to the big day. A poll done by Gravis Marketing just days before the election reported that only 50 percent of Florida voters were planning on voting yes on Amendment Two, and 42 percent said they were going to vote no.

People like me who voted no are mostly worried about people finding loopholes in the “poorly written amendment,” according to The Huffington Post. It was a concern that the language used left huge holes that could have lead to widespread use of marijuana among perfectly healthy Floridians, according to the Sun Sentinel.

The strain of marijuana that was signed into law back in June will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2015, according to The Huffington Post. The strain is called Charlotte’s Web, and it is a form of cannabis that is low in THC, the chemical responsible for the high experienced after consuming marijuana, according to livescience.com.

This specific strain is high in a chemical called CBD that helps treat severe seizures caused by epilepsy, and it also helps patients with cancer. It got its name from a seven-year-old girl from Colorado named Charlotte Figi who suffers from a rare form of epilepsy called Dravet Syndrome, according to The Huffington Post. Traditional medications have failed to help Figi with her seizures, but she was able to find relief with this specific strain of medical marijuana.

I am highly concerned that most people just want Amendment Two to go through because it would bring us a step closer to legalizing recreational marijuana. This fight should be for those that need this medicine because they are seriously ill, and not those that like to be high all the time.

The exit poll showed a large increase in the turnout of voters from 18 to 29 compared to the 2010 election, according

to The Washington Post. It jumped from eight percent to 14 percent. I feel these numbers show how young people were more motivated to vote in hopes of Amendment Two passing for possibly the wrong reasons. Seniors in Florida make up a quarter of the electorate and 40 percent of them are not for medical marijuana use which definitely had a huge effect on the outcome of Amendment Two, according to The Washington Post. Young people are going to have to overcome the majority of the older crowd that occupies Florida to get this amendment to pass.

Treatment professionals are also among those that oppose medical and recreational use of marijuana, as they see it as an addicting substance, according to The Huffington Post. These professionals are also backed by associations like the Drug Free America Foundation.

On the medical side of things, opposition comes from the Florida Medical Association, even though they do support the use of the strain of marijuana that was recently signed into law. Their reason for opposing the use of it to accommodate illnesses comes from a lack of substantial research when medicinally used in their opinion, according to The Huffington Post.

They are also in agreement with a recent statement made by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) who believes that “cannabis, cannabisbased products, and cannabis delivery devices should be subject to the same standards that are applicable to other prescription medications and medical devices and that these products should not be distributed or otherwise provided to patients unless and until such products or devices have received marketing approval from the Food and Drug Administration,” according to The Huffington Post.

I completely agree with this statement as well. If marijuana is going to be used in the medical field, it should be held to the same standards as other prescription medications. It shouldn’t just get a free pass. This will also ensure that the drug is completely safe for doctors to prescribe and safe for patients to consume.

However, a special “catch 22” stands in the way of FDA approval, according to The Huffington Post. In 1970 when the Controlled Substance Act was established under federal law, marijuana was classified as a schedule one drug and still is today.

This puts marijuana in the same category as heroin, LSD, ecstasy, meth and peyote. This category of drugs is defined as having a high potential for abuse and therefore not acceptable when it comes to medical use, according to The Huffington Post. I would definitely have to agree that this is a misclassification of marijuana as it is nowhere near as dangerous as the other drugs in this particular category.

Also, marijuana has been found to have a positive effect on patients with “debilitating medical conditions” like cancer, multiple sclerosis, glaucoma, hepatitis C, HIV, AIDS, ALS, Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease “or other conditions for which a physician believes that the medical use of marijuana would likely outweigh the potential health risks for a patient,” according to ballotpedia.org. With that being said, I can definitely see medical

saintpetersblog.com

Amendment Two has too many loopholes in it to be beneficial for those who need it.

marijuana returning to the ballot in the future, and most likely passing.

“While it’s disappointing that patients in Florida won’t be able to find legal relief with marijuana just yet,” said Tom Angell, a Marijuana Majority chairman, in a statement to The Huffington Post, “tonight’s result does show that a clear majority of voters in the sunshine state support a new direction.”

He feels that patients and marijuana supporters “will keep pushing until the law reflects what most voters want.” I totally agree here. Floridians are definitely going to see a newer different version of this amendment for the next time it goes on the ballot. They will keep trying to evolve it into something the majority will vote into law.

Florida was not the only state that had marijuana on their ballot on Tuesday.

Voters living in Washington D.C., Oregon and Alaska decided on the use of recreational cannabis, according to The Huffington Post. It’s not hard to see that a lot of states, and even the nation’s capital are moving more and more toward relaxed laws when it comes to marijuana and I have a feeling that Florida will soon join the ranks of the laxed.

As for me, I will continue to vote no as I feel that the current law in place is sufficient enough for those who need it for medical reasons. For right now, the voters who share my views make up the majority, but it might not be that way for long.

Caitlin Malone can be reached a caitlin. malone@spartans.ut.edu

16 NOVEMBER 13 2014 | THE MINARET

SPORTS Hockey Team Participates in Movember, Rallies Behind Cancer-Stricken Coach

“Personally, it motivates me because I know that it means a lot to our coach and I want to make him proud of my play, and my mustache.”

By PHIL NOVOTNY Sports Editor

“I don’t look at myself as being ill,” John Scotello said. Scotello is the assistant UT club hockey coach and was diagnosed with prostate cancer this past year, his first year coaching at UT. “I’m not a victim or a survivor,” Scotello continued. “I’m honestly annoyed by those mentalities. I don’t need to need to feel sorry for myself and I don’t expect others to.”

“Movember,” is a month dedicated to raising money to fight prostate cancer.

In light of this, UT’s club hockey team has grown out their mustaches and every player has donated $10 as a tribute to their coach.

Scotello started playing hockey when he was seven years old in New York.

Later, Scotello played midgets, or college hockey, and senior elites in Wisconsin. He classified himself as a part of the “hockey boom” which occurred after the 1980 Winter Olympics when the United States hockey team defeated the Soviet Union in Lake Placid, New York, en route to winning the gold medal. “I watched every game of those Olympics as a little boy.

After the US beat the Russians, I knew I had to play,” said Scotello. “At that point, it felt like every little boy’s patriotic duty.”

In the fall of 2005, Scotello shifted his career to his other passion: art. He joined the staff at the University of WisconsinFond du Lac, where he taught studio art and art history. Scotello is the only male to ever receive the Walter’s Fellowship of Art History at UW-Milwaukee’s Graduate School of Art History.

Eventually, Scotello and his family relocated to Tampa, where he was

Photo courtesy of the UT Club Hockey team

The Club Hockey team honors Assistant Coach John Scotello during Movember by growing mustaches.

introduced to UT’s club hockey head coach Steve Kucera through multiple friends. He got along well with Kucera and found they had a lot in common.

“We hit it off immediately as academic colleagues, buddies, and through our hockey philosophies,” said Scotello. “We both believe in physical hockey that is offensively controlled by our defensive players on the ice.”

In addition to coaching to the club hockey team, Scotello is continuing his passion for art through teaching Beginning Design (ART 204) at UT. Currently, he is taking leave from the University of Wisconsin Colleges, where he serves as the Associate Chair for the Department of Art. Today, Scotello is battling prostate cancer but he does not want to be seen as

just a person with a deadly disease. “In that regard, I don’t worry about things I do not have control over. These are concepts that I believe carry forward both in the classroom and on the ice. We are in control only of ourselves, so we prepare as best we can with what we have to work with.”

Coaching the hockey team and teaching ART 204 has helped Scotello cope but he has had a great amount of support from the players as well. Senior forward and captain Matthew Fenby discusses the effect that Scotello’s illness had on the team.

“This has definitely had an impact on the team,” Fenby said. “It definitely brings us together as a team and motivates us to be a family.”

Freshman left winger Matthew Antonacci also talks about his feelings during Movember. “Personally, it

motivates me because I know that it means a lot to our coach and I want to make him proud of my play, and my mustache,” said Antonacci.

Overall, Movember has brought the club hockey team even closer together and it has shown in their play. The team went 1-1-1 this past weekend, salvaging a victory against University North Carolina Charlotte 9-7 in the final game of their road trip Also, the Spartans have gone 6-2-1 over the past nine games which puts them over .500 against American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) opponents. “They are a great group of young men, and I’m really proud to be associated with them,” Scotello said.

Philip Novotny can be reached at philip. novotny@theminaretonline.com

SPORTS

THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 13 2014

17

No.1 Ranked Volleyball Team To Play Two Games Until SSC Tournament Squad pushes through towards end of regular season slate

By TESS SHEETS Sports Writer

As the regular season comes to a close, the volleyball team prepares to clinch their final remaining victories in hopes of hosting the NCAA Regional Tournament on the weekend of Nov. 20-22. Although success looks promising, an exhausting past week competing against No. 2 Florida Southern College and No. 3 St. Leo University has made the team’s drive to the finish an expectedly challenging one, to say the least.

“It’s to the point in the season where our bodies are getting tired and we have to give it all to push through each game,” said junior right side hitter Marissa Lisenbee. “Things aren’t always going to go smoothly for us.

When it gets to this point, we really need to stick together as a team and come together to get through the games that we get a little sluggish.”

Defeating both Florida Southern and St. Leo was a big accomplishment for the Spartans as it secured them the number one spot in the Sunshine State Conference.

And with only two matches

Photo courtesy of Tom Kolbe Junior Marissa Lisenbee assists the volleyball team in maintaining their No. 1 ranking.

remaining in their season, every game counts if the team expects to achieve their goal.

“If we had lost, we would be in a tie right now. But by beating them we have a two game lead in the conference,” Head Coach Chris Catanach said. “Our goal was to win the conference, which,

if we can win two more matches, we can do that, but we would like to win it outright by winning at least three.”

The recent victories have not only given the Spartans a hefty lead in the conference, but it has also given the team insight into how they will perform during the regional tournament as Florida Southern has already secured their spot. “[Florida Southern and St. Leo] play ten times harder, which makes us have to pick up our game,” Lisenbee said. “We knew that beating them would put us in a better spot to host regionals. Those games also prepare us for the matches we will play during regionals since we will most likely see both of those teams again during the tournament.”

Despite their successful winning streak, the excitement of the recent significant victories, closely followed by a midweek match against Eckerd College and on top of sleep lost by the time change has Catanach and his players anxious about their performance in the upcoming weeks.

“We were really tired from that weekend, it was an exhausting weekend,” Catanach said. “And with the time change, its amazing how the one hour affects you. We’ve struggled a little bit from that weekend, in practices. I’m a little nervous about the weekend just because the state of

our physical being. It has a big effect on our goals, we need to win these two games.”

With the tournament fast approaching, the team plans on using their performance against Florida Southern and St. Leo as a sort of template as to how they expect to compete in the postseason.

“The biggest struggle playing both of those teams is to stay strong both physically and emotionally,” Lisenbee said. “The biggest success that came from these was not only a win but the way we played together as a team. We really buckled down and ignored the negative things of the match. When we have that great team energy, we become unstoppable.”

If the team has a successful finish, the SSC Tournament will be held in the Bob Martinez Center on Nov. 2022. The team hopes playing on their home court will boost confidence and performance as they will be competing against the top eight teams in the south region.

“We have a great shot, we control our fate,” Catanach said. “Florida Southern will be in it, Palm Beach Atlantic will be in it, after that, it is still teams jockeying for position, they have to finish out the season strong.”

Tess Sheets can be reached at tess. sheets@theminaretonline.com

Women’s Golf Team Freshmen Show Promise For Spring

By ANDREW STAMAS Sports Writer

The women’s golf team still has the spring season to look forward to and prepare for. The Spartans had a strong fall, and many of the golfers on this young team showed what great potential they have.

Since there is only one senior and two juniors on the roster, the younger golfers have to step it up. This includes freshman Cailee Beisswanger, who shot the best scores on the team for three of the four outings that they competed in.

Though it is only her first semester here at UT, Beisswanger believes that overall the fall season went well.

“Transitions from any school are difficult, but overall, I think I made the adjustments well,” said Beisswanger.

Besides Beisswanger’s impressive start to her collegiate golf career, the Spartans also recorded their best score ever during their recent fall campaign.

The Spartans shot a combined score of 313 on Oct. 7 at the Guy Harvey Invitational in Palm Beach Gardens.

Head coach Missey Jones knows that her team’s constant hard work and dedication is what led to this result.

“These kids are working really hard.

It’s so fun to see and get the results from it. They’re a special group of girls,” said Jones.

Jones also noted that the majority of the golfers who contributed to this score were freshmen, which evidently shows the possibility of getting even

Photo courtesy of Tom Kolbe Freshman Cailee Beisswanger has helped the women’s golf team march through a rebuilding fall season.

better scores in the future.

She said that her team’s goals include to break 313 more than once, and also to ultimately break 300.

The ladies also performed well at the Flagler Fall Slam in St.Augustine on Oct. 27-28. They finished in 11th place out of 15 teams. Their combined team score was 340 in the first round, and 319 in the second round for a combined score of 659.

Junior Fatin Amin shot a team best

round of 76 for the Spartans.

Beisswanger also knows that although she and her team had some strong showings during the fall, there is still plenty of room for improvement during the spring.

“Golf is all about improvement.

As a team, I think we will grow with more practice and experience. Each event is a learning experience and something should be taken away from it,” she said.

A major part of the improvement that Beisswanger suggests is putting.

“Greens in regulation are the stats we’re working on, our play on fast greens. We do a lot of putting drills,” according to Coach Jones, who also added that those shots can be very difficult as there is more pressure to make them.

For Beisswanger, there are also some individual goals that she will aim for. “I personally want to play in two US Open Qualifiers and improve my scores from last season,” said Beisswanger.While the team may be in their off-season at the moment, that doesn’t mean they aren’t training hard. Jones is technically not allowed to hold team practices during the offseason, but the girls can and do still train upon request. It is important for them to stay on their game during the off-season period.

“They have plenty of things to do over three months while they’re gone,” said Jones, referring to how the girls are still training hard during the offseason. She added that they typically wake up at 6:30 A.M. to begin training, and they all have to pass a fitness test in January.

Beisswanger and the Spartans are keen on improving their short game.

They are practicing hard and focusing on bringing what they learn out onto the course when they play.

Andrew Stamas can be reached at andrew. stamas@spartans.ut.edu

18 NOVEMBER 13 2014 | THE MINARET

SPORTS

‘Disc-iples’ Strive To Capture Ultimate Frisbee Title

By GRIFFIN GUINTA Sports Columnist

The stage was set. The Disc-iples were a game away from clinching a spot in the 2013 Men’s Ultimate Frisbee Intramural Championship.

The only thing standing in their way? Senior Keir Magoulas’ feisty Banditos squad, a talented crop of frisbee aficionados who had beaten them just two weeks prior in the regular season.

The Disc-iples, captained by thenjunior Zach Colegrove, battled down to the wire and forced the game against the Banditos into overtime.

Despite their valiant effort, however, they conceded the playoff game in the final seconds, losing 10-9 to finish off their season.

For Colegrove and his compatriots, this only furthered their collective desire to come back stronger this year. Arguably, their biggest advantage is their wealth of experience on the field.

Aside from Colegrove, the team features two seniors that have been Disc-iples from the very beginning: James Beckett and Micah Reum.

The squad also has one non-student, Intervarsity Leader Joshua Haupt, a 29 year old that can run laps around spry young college kids.

When asked about the conception of the team name “Disc-iples” senior leader Colegrove remarked that it combined a creative frisbee pun with a Biblical reference.

“I was just looking for catchy names. We’re a group of Christian guys, so we figured since the word ‘Disciples’ has the word ‘disc’ in it we could just call ourselves Disciples,” he said.

Since 2012, Colegrove, Haupt, Beckett and Reum have made up the core of the team and possess an already established chemistry that some of their other competitors may lack due to their experience.

Colegrove commented on how the team has come a long way since their inaugural season in 2012.

“It’s been a team effort,” said Colegrove. “We’ve grown bigger, gotten more athletic. We know each other’s playing styles, and now we can all throw different [types of frisbee throws].”

Raeshaad Long/The Minaret The Disc-iples are led by four seniors who are seeking their first intramural Frisbee title.

Senior James Beckett agreed with Colegrove’s sentiments and praised the diversity of the players on the team.

“Everyone seems to be fast and on their feet, and that’s what we need.

Some people are throwers, some people are catchers. We have a decent blend,” said Beckett.

Though the team strives to play as one cohesive unit, Colegrove praised fellow senior Reum for his defensive

presence on the field during games.

Reum essentially plays “safety” and ensures that deeply thrown passes don’t even have a chance of being touchdowns for the opposition.

“Last game he played safety the first half, made an amazing catch in the second half and kept us in the game,” Colegrove said.

As far as this season goes, the Disciples are just happy to be back on the field again. The team sits at 1-1 going into a fiercely competitive rematch against the champion Banditos this week, a contest they’d like to ensure ends a win.

“They’re always tough, we come close every time. We haven’t been able to top ‘em, but I think this is our year. It’s time for their reign to end,” Colegrove said.

The two veteran teams square off this upcoming Monday, the 10th, at 10:00 PM at the brand new Naimoli Athletic Complex. This is a game that’s sure to be rife with plenty of excitement and points.

Griffin Guinta can be reached at griffin. guinta@spartans.ut.edu

Athletic Marketing Debuts New UT Sports App

By JAMES BELLUSCIO Sports Writer

Gil Swalls, Associate Athletic Director and Marketing Manager for Spartan Athletics, has a breakthrough idea to get more students in the seats for game nights. “I don’t believe students don’t care, they just never know when the games are,” Swalls said. The marketing team –led

by Swalls– has created schedule cards for the games over the years, but this has not solved the problem of attendance.

With help of Promotions Coordinator Cassandra Luddy, and her father Kevin Luddy, there is

now an app available for students to get the schedule and time of any upcoming game for any UT sports team. The app was designed by the elder Luddy, and only took a few brief weeks to create, but it has not been easy.

After only two weeks, the Android market accepted the app and put it on the Google Play store for users to download for free. The app is even sponsored by Pizza Hut and by going to the app, a student has the ability to make one click that will send them directly to the delivery page for the nearby Pizza Hut. However, Apple’s App Store for the

iPhone needs specific qualifications for any app that is made available. In this case, the qualifications for Apple users were not met. The app had to be redone by Luddy over three times now.

Currently, Swalls and the UTampa Spartans App is not ready for anyone with an iPhone, which clearly is a huge problem considering almost every student has an iPhone here on campus.

Swalls is confident it will be ready for download by the end of the semester and is only a few minor fixes away from being Apple approved. Upon happening, for the first time students will have the ability to get updates on when and where the Spartans are playing with just one click.

When opening the app, the Pizza Hut banner is present at the top of the

home page. Scrolling down allows the user to see upcoming athletic games.

So far the schedule that has been released extends into December.

So far, this app allows Androidusing Spartans to access the upcoming athletic schedule.

Swalls has one mission: “to provide the most accessible way to follow the sports teams on campus.”

With the work of Swalls, the 44 members of Athletic Marketing and this new app, students will take the time to attend games. There are people here that have desperately tried to get the word out for games, but now with the unveiling of this app, students have no excuse.

James Belluscio can be reached at james.belluscio@spartans.ut.edu

SPORTS

THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 13 2014

19

Minaret Writer Behind the Scenes at MetLife

Regina Gonzalez/ The Minaret The view from the press box of MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Jets and the New York Giants. Located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the stadium opened in 2010. It hosted Super Bowl XLVIII in February.

By REGINA GONZALEZ Sports Writer

It was 11:30 A.M., about an hour and a half before kick-off. As the connecting New Jersey transit train from Penn Station slowed down alongside the parking lot at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ, the doors opened and rapid seas of green, black and yellow spilled out onto the platform.

I wrapped my scarf tighter around my neck as I stepped into the crisp, fall air, and the smell of fire pits and barbeque hit me as I walked through the parking lot to the Pepsi Gate. Going to a college with no football team, I couldn’t help but grin to myself as I strolled by fans tailgating from the trunk of their cars.

I realized I hadn’t been to a football game in almost a year. It was Nov. 9, and it was game day. The New York Jets were about to take on one of the hottest teams in the NFL this season, the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Walking into the stadium, I trailed directly behind my dad, who was decked out in his official NFL hat and jacket, to a side entrance on the bottom level that read “Coach’s Club” in giant letters. This entryway was solely for the family members of coaches, suite members and any VIP guests attending the game.

At the double glass doors that were lined with green silhouettes of quarterbacks and wide receivers in action, Clay Hampton, long time friend of my father’s and Senior Director of Football Operations for the Jets, smiled and trotted over with a giant smile on his face to greet us.

“Frank G! How are you man?” he said as he shook my dad’s hand. I had never met Clay before. I watched them talk for a few minutes before Clay reached his hand out to me and said, “Regina! What a pleasure to meet you!”

Before I knew it, we were on the sidelines of the field. The New York Jets were doing pre-game stretches right before my eyes, assistant coaches and staff were seen prepping for the game, and the referees stood in a circle conversing. Shivers went down my spine.

I had been on the sidelines before, but now being a journalism major and aspiring reporter, it felt different this time. At that very moment all I could think about was hopefully being on this turf again some day, but in front of a camera, waiting to go live for a pregame interview. We could only stay a few minutes as the coin toss and kick-off were approaching, so I quickly snapped a picture of my football crush, wide receiver Eric Decker, and exited the field with my

Regina Gonzalez/ The Minaret Gonzalez was able to get on the field and get a few pictures, including shots of Jets receiver Eric Decker warming up.

dad and Clay.

We then got into an elevator that took us to the top level of the stadium, and got off at a floor that looked like I was suddenly taken to an office building. With carpeted floors, glass windows, and rows of people from both teams with headsets and laptops, we were in the press box.

Clay introduced me to Caitlin Cass, an alumnae of University of Colorado at boulder who majored in marketing, and was now doing seasonal media relations for the Jets.

She guided me around the entire vicinity, explaining the positions of certain operators and representatives.

I got to meet some of the employees that were recording stats and updating the website for the Jets’ official page, sports writers from the Daily News, and official announcers for the game. I followed her as we passed individual rooms that had a view of the game to do live radio broadcasts from the Jets’ official station to ESPN Deportes Spanish channel.

Right as my private tour was coming to an end, it was time for the National Anthem. It was an honor to view the sight

of the large, beautiful flag through the long windows that looked out onto the entire field.

I was having the time of my life being surrounded by so many people with such significant roles to airing and operating the game. As the clock started and Jets affiliates began typing on their keyboards, I respected that they had a job to do and said my goodbyes, walking away with a few new contacts in hand.

To provide some background information on how this experience was even possible for me, let’s just say I have been subjected to the game of American football since I was basically a baby. My dad has always been a die hard Jets fan due to the fact that he has worked specifically with the team and staff in the car business through his position at Nissan. Through that he made friends with people in the industry.

He has been to every Super Bowl since the year 2000 and gets the opportunity every couple of weeks to work in the NFL command center and violations room at their headquarters in New York City. As he developed a significant role and name for

himself in the business, we have been lucky enough to get great access and opportunities at games that not many fans are able to experience. He has always breathed football, and growing up his idea of bonding time was taking me to Jets games and training camp where I would get to meet players and coaches. For years I absolutely hated it. All of my guy friends were jealous and would kill for the experiences I got to have at games, and I was not impressed whatsoever. I could never understand the plays and couldn’t comprehend what the big hype was about this confusing game where men purposely tried to hurt each other over a ball.

Over the course of my high school career, I developed a profound love for writing and journalism. With my dad’s love for the sport and half of my friends making up the defensive line up, I reluctantly agreed to cover high school football games to finally try and perceive what the game was all about.

By the time I was a junior I loved it.

It was the thrill, suspense, and dedication to a team that created a deep passion for the game. My enthusiasm quickly turned into me following the NFL and closely watching female reporters on major sports networks such as ESPN. My dad was shocked and proud at my sudden interest, and our trips to training camps and getting all access opportunities that I once dreaded became a learning and networking experience for me to see how the sports industry worked,especially now being a college student. This game was one of those opportunities.

With a stadium hotdog and giant Pepsi in my hand, I watched the game with my dad, baffled at the fact that the Steelers were getting dominated by a team that was on an eight game losing streak.

After one quarter, the Jets had 164 total yards and 17 points, while the Steelers had zero points and a grand total of five yards.

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who had been close to unstoppable over the past two weeks, turned the ball almost endlessly, and Steelers kicker Shaun Suisham, managed to miss a 23-yard field goal.

Sitting next to the high school football coach of Steelers’ Linebacker Jason Worlids, I thought he was going to throw his pizza at somebody in anger at their surprisingly mediocre performance.

With the final score of 20-13, the Jets were able to put a second victory in their book, and I was able to put a commendable experience in mine.

Regina Gonzalez can be reached at regina.gonzalez2@spartans.ut.edu

20 NOVEMBER 13 2014 | THE MINARET

SPORTS

Women’s Basketball To Build On Team Chemistry

By DOMINICK FALCO Sports Writer

With all the success they had last season, the Women’s Basketball team now comes into this season with a target on their back. In the USA Today Preseason Coaches’ Poll, UT was ranked fourteenth, as well as being favored to win the Sunshine State Conference.

For the first time in program history, the Lady Spartans advanced to the third round of the Division Two NCAA tournament, while also ending the season ranked fifteenth in the nation.

The team, led by head coach Tom Jessee, is looking to build on the success his team had last season.

“We want to build on the fact that we were in the tournament. There is enough experience back, three starters as a matter of fact along with a talent group of players that came off the bench. So we’re gonna feed off of that and build around that with the mindset that we want to get back to that very thing and this time have experience on our side when we do get there,” said Jessee.

Senior forward Aisha Rodney was on the team last year and knows the pressure that has been put on the team. “We have a target on our back from the get-go. The people that left the school last year and all the returners have set a standard and we need to exceed that standard for this year.

It puts good pressure on our team to carry on the legacy that we have always had at Tampa,” said Rodney.

There is one difference between last season and this season: the team is missing two of their top five scorers in guards Illyssa Vivo and Shamika Williams.

Jessee talked about who can step up in the absences of Vivo and Williams. “We will transfer over to two of the returning kids, who would probably pick up the bulk of the slack, two very talented players in Juliana Cavallaro and Ellen Nurmi,” Jessee said about who will step up in the

Photo courtesy of Tom Kolbe

The women’s basketball team will rely on guard/forward Ellen Nurmi and forward Aisha Rodney, to lead them deeper into the NCAA Tournament.

graduations of the two seniors.

One of the players Jessee mentioned, junior Ellen Nurmi, spoke about how she will step up as a leader this season.

“The two seniors of the starting five that graduated where very much leaders on and off the floor, so therefore now us [Nurmi and Rodney] as the new captains on the team will also try to bring leadership to the floor and take more responsibility, so when its crunch time they won’t look for anyone else. I will definitely try to lead by example and hit some important shots,” said Nurmi.

The Lady Spartans kick off their season on Friday against Flagler College at home, while they are competing in the Spartan Challenge Tournament. There are a lot of things that this team needs to fix before their opener. Jessee is taking this game as

an opportunity for this team to build their on-court chemistry. “In that game we will get a good chance to really see how the team plays under a real game situation because that will be their first official game test. We will see how our new players blend with our returning players. We will see how far along is our offense and defense scheme and system at that point because basketball is a very unique thing.

It’s such a timing a timing sport and a muscle memory reflex, so it takes a while for that to get to peaking. We want to get off to a good start and send a message right away that Tampa is still here and that we weren’t one and done last year. This group is this year’s team and they will start to establish their own identity,” Jessee said.

The team is looking forward to play in

Martinez Gym on Friday afternoon in front of their home fans. “We love playing at home,” said Jessee. “We love to have the student body here. We love to have the fan base here. These kids deserve that. They work extremely hard and it’s so rewarding for them to come out and see people appreciate what they are doing and their own students across campus to kind of pat them on the back that day because these girls put a lot of work in. I would love to get more and more people involved. ” The women’s basketball team will open the season against Flagler College on Friday, November 14 at 2 p.m. in the Bob Martinez Athletic Center.

Dominick Falco can be reached at dominick. falco@spartans.ut.edu

Men’s Basketball To Start Season In Alabama

By MARCUS MITCHELL Sports Columnist

Every year, men’s basketball coaches and sports information directors gather together and create the Sunshine State Conference Preseason Poll. The poll is used to gauge the talent on teams within the conference and gives coaches a look of how their team is perceived from the outside.

In the past, the SSC Preseason Poll hasn’t been kind to the Tampa Spartans and ranked them near the bottom of the conference for the past three years. However, this year the Spartans are ranked fourth and sit behind nationally ranked teams, Florida Southern (7) and Barry (2).

While they may not be the favorites to win the SSC title, they are certainly contenders. Last year the team was predicted to finish last in the SSC and ended up finishing as runner-up in the conference finals. Although this year’s ranking won’t give the Spartans as much of a chip on their shoulder as last year’s, head coach Richard Schmidt is comfortable being an underdog.

Over the past ten years, Schmidt and the Spartans have never been ranked higher than fourth but have only had two losing seasons.

The players have also been welcoming of their modest ranking in the difficult conference. Freshman power forward Othniel “Duke” Shelton said, “I think it’s a good ranking for us, it gives us a chance to

Photo courtesy of Tom Kolbe

The men’s basketball team looks to contend for the Sunshine State Conference title.

prove ourselves on the court.”

Shelton is one of many newcomers to the team this year and coach Schmidt has been working hard to get them ready for their preseason tournaments. “These games are going to be tough, we have a lot of new guys and it will take a while for them to learn our complicated system. We are asking a lot from them,” Schimdt said.

The Spartans kick off their preseason with the University of Alabama Huntsville Tournament this weekend on the road. It will be a difficult test for Schmidt’s squad as they take on both the host team and the University of North Alabama, who eliminated the Spartans from the NCAA South Regional

Tournament last season. It will be the first time in recent history that the Spartans take the trip to Alabama to participate in the tournament. This strays away from the past practice by the team to play big name Florida schools in exhibition games. Last season, the team kicked off their preseason with exhibitions against Division I teams Stetson University and the University of Central Florida, both of which ended in losses for UT. Now they will be sticking to their division and region in order to benefit greater from their preseason. “This tournament in Alabama is real important because they’re also from the South Region and we can end up playing one of these teams later. We can

learn a lot about ourselves and how we stack up from these games.” said Schmidt.

Following their trip to Alabama, the team will travel across the Bay to participate in the Eckerd Classic during Thanksgiving weekend. Good news for the Spartans is that they have had tremendous success in the Eckerd Classic in their recent history, only losing one game in seven appearances. With such a strong pedigree in the tournament, this will more likely be a crucial opportunity for the team to work out any kinks in their armor before they begin their season.

Sophomore point guard Matt Johnson and senior team captain Jordan Davis will bring consistency to the team while the many newcomers develop into staple players under Schmidt’s system. “We have a lot of good new guys coming in that should help us out.

Guys like Eugene McCrory from UCF and Marcel Robinson should get us plenty of wins this year,” Schimdt said.

With plenty of talent on both the defensive and offensive sides of the ball, the Spartans could make a big statement to its opposition this preseason. With still plenty to improve on, Schmidt and the team will benefit greatly from a real road test before their conference play begins in December.

“It’s going to be tough, but I have faith in us,” said Schmidt.

Marcus Mitchell can be reached at marcus. mitchell@spartans.ut.edu