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ut.minaret@gmail.com
‘Election. What Election?’ UT Labeled ‘Politically Apathetic’ by Princeton Review
Asst. News and Features Editor
News and Features Editor
“Election. What Election?” is the name of the Princeton Review list published by the Huffington Post that lists The University of Tampa as the sixth most politically apathetic college in the nation. Although behind schools such as Duke University and College of the Ozarks, the ranking labels UT students as politically inactive and not knowing or caring about current affairs. Sophomore Stevie Handwerk does not agree with the ranking. “I think we’re pretty politically active,” she said. “I talk to people about politics and I go around and hear people talking about it and discussing it and I feel like the debates were watched pretty greatly.” There are students, however, who think that UT’s spot on the list may have some truth to it. “We have the UT Democrats and Republicans on campus, but as far as [political awareness] around campus I guess I’ve only seen stickers on cars,” junior Lauren Pruett said. “I think people need to be more educated, I have friends who say they won’t vote because of the Electoral College and they think their vote doesn’t matter but it still matters. I think it does have to do with apathy.” Travis Abercrombie is the Public Information Coordinator for the Supervisor of Elections Office and he would tell students that their vote does count. “[Students’] vote most definitely does count. My freshman year at Tampa was in 2000 which is when they had that whole fiasco and take it however you want to but the moral is that someone won that election by 537 votes, so every vote certainly does count. On the flip side, I can assure you, now having worked in the elections office, trust me, we count every vote. Cause if we don’t we’re going to go to
In Other News...
hlkljgk/Flickr.com Students will enter a voting booth similar to this one during the next two weeks to vote for the President, along with for other regional positions.
jail,“ he said. Michelle Kerr, a senior, is the vice president of the College Democrats and believes that political apathy stems from students not aiming to be informed, get involved and vote. “We have an opinion and if you don’t get out to vote, your opinion isn’t going to be counted,” Kerr said. “If college students don’t go out to vote, then politicians won’t even care about college students and then just dismiss us because we’re not going to go out to vote. We do have opinions that matter. We have issues that matter to us as students.” It is not too late to get involved and informed before voting ends. One easy way for students to obtain political knowledge and be more involved in the election process is to attend a program by the Office of Student Success along with the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Office and the College Conservatives and College Democrats. Francis Jankowski is a mentor for the Office of Student Success and believes that this event will help students make more informed decisions come
election time. The event will take place Thursday, Nov. 1, in the Brevard Community Room from 4 - 6 p.m. There will be snacks, free T-shirts and prizes. “Ultimately an individual’s choice, but we want to make sure they know what choice they are making,” Jankowski said. “We hope that our event will allow students to become knowledgeable about the history and significance of voting and current, relevant political issues, allowing attendees to make informed decisions when voting, or refraining from voting.” He also feels that political apathy can be combated by seeking out the information necessary to be educated and not expecting it to be made readily available. “Personally, I feel it is important for everyone to make informed decisions, and not just in the context of elections. Information isn’t always readily available, but the amount of time and effort it takes to become informed is minuscule compared to the benefits of making an informed
See APATHY Page 4
theminaretonline.com
Early Voters Take Advantage of Location Options By YASAMAN SHERBAF
By MIA GLATTER
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The 2012 Presidential Election has already begun. Early voting started on the 27th and will run through Saturday, November 3. In order to vote, students need a valid photo ID which includes a Florida drivers’ license, U.S. passport, military ID or a student ID with a card that has a signature (credit card, debit card, etc.). Travis Abercrombie, the Public Information Coordinator for the Supervisor of Elections Office, advises students not to wait until the last minute to get informed. “Be familiar with that ballot, it’s a six page ballot, it’s monstrous and it really can be intimidating,” he said. “Google is your friend, it’s like taking a take home test. You can visit our website votehillsborough. org [where] you can fill out the bubbles in your office, in your room, where ever you want to
do it and you can even take the sample ballot into the polling place with you.” Early voting is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. until Saturday, Nov. 3 at 15 different locations throughout Hillsborough County. If students do not take advantage of early voting and choose to wait to vote on the actual Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 6, voting must go to their assigned voting precinct. If students registered to vote through campus, the correct precinct is the Greater Bethel Baptist Church. A 2012 sample ballot shows all the categories for voting which include president and vice president, sheriff, property appraiser, supervisor of elections, United States senator, boa ard of county commissioners, justice of the Supreme Court, city council members, etc. Yasaman Sherbaf can be reached at yasaman.sherbaf@ theminaretonline.com.
Photo courtesy of google.com/maps The three locations closest to campus include the Fred B. Karl County Center, the West Tampa Branch Library and the North Tampa Branch Library.
2 ‘Frankenstorm’ Sandy Plagues East Coast
10 Beards Turn Boys Into Men During No Shave November
12 Menigitis Outbreak Could Have Been Prevented
7 Fall Dance Happening Pieces Seduced and Haunted in Honor of Halloween
11 UT Students: Who They are Voting for and Why?
20 Scoring Woes End Just in Time
News..................................2 Diversions.........................6 A+E....................................7 Opinion............................ 11
Sports..............................17
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NEWS + FEATURES
NOVEMBER 1 2012 | THE MINARET
MINARET
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Joshua Napier
joshua.napier@theminaretonline.com
MANAGING EDITOR Chelsea Daubar
chelsea.daubar@theminaretonline.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jessica Keesee
jessica.keesee@theminaretonline.com
NEWS + FEATURES Mia Glatter, Editor
mia.glatter@theminaretonline.com
Yasaman Sherbaf, Asst. Editor
yasaman.sherbaf@theminaretonline.com
ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT Natalie Hicks, Editor
natalie.hicks@theminaretonline.com
Kelly St. Onge, Asst. Editor
kelly.st.onge@theminaretonline.com
‘Frankenstorm’ Sandy Plagues East Coast UT students worry about home towns
By SLOANE BABY
News Writer
Hurricane Sandy made an appearance in Florida after she put up a fight in the Caribbean and killed 69 people. Sandy has bypassed the Tampa Bay area and as she went over the Atlantic Ocean, she gained size and strength, building up to be about 1,000 miles wide. She produced up to 19-foot waves which slammed the coast while ripping from North Carolina to New York and parts of Canada, terrorizing everything in her path. In some places, winds dropped to around 60 to 90 mph, but this socalled “Frankenstorm” still flooded streets and buildings, destroyed homes and vehicles and caused heartbreak to families and communities. Thousands of flights have been cancelled and people are limited to their homes and shelters to remain safe. The New York City subway system, also flooded and damaged, is said will
be back and in running order within four or five days of the initial hit. Though the cold weather and excessive flooding will prolong the damages from being repaired, billions of dollars in damages will be collected in the meantime by insurance companies, and, unfortunately, possibly by U.S. taxpayers. Up to eight million people lost power and it is reported that there were 43 fatalities in the United States, many because of fallen trees. This is said to be one of the top three storms in U.S. history, with up to 50 million people affected by Hurricane and “Frankenstorm” Sandy. Many of the people impacted by the threats of such a tremendous storm are University of Tampa students and their families. Junior Dana Schwarz is from Cherry Hill, NJ and she says her home is not sustaining much damage from the hurricane.
“[The lack of power in the neighborhood] caused our sump pump in our basement to stop working so our basement has been filling with water since then. Thankfully we don’t really use our basement too much or keep anything too valuable down there but my parents did have to move my cats’ bathroom up a level.” Schwarz is also troubled by the images that are surfacing of the damage. “And on being here while all of this is happening, the hardest part for me has actually been seeing all of the pictures and footage of the Jersey Shore flooded. Many of my friends have houses there that I’m sure are destroyed and there are so many pictures I’m seeing of places that we go to in the Summer halfway under water.” Sloane Baby can be reached at sloane.baby@spartans.ut.edu.
OPINION
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Annabella Palopoli, Asst. Editor
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SPORTS
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Rocky DePhillipo/Facebook.com Seaside Heights, an icon in the Jersey Shore area, was heavily impacted by the hurricane. Pictures circulated the web of the pier being completely tattered and destroyed.
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Campus Reflection of Sandy’s Destruction
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“My aunt lives in Roslyn, New York and she had to leave her house because a tree is blocking her front door.” -Cori Sirota
Education, Junior Lynbrook, NY
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Donny Murray Justine Parks
STAFF WRITERS Zoe Fowler Pranav Lokin
COLUMNISTS
David Adams Alex Caraballo Hannah Webster Jack Whitaker
MORE INFORMATION THE MINARET is a weekly student-run publication at the University of Tampa. Letters to the Editor may be sent to editor@theminaretonline.com. To reach THE MINARET call 813.257.3636. Your first two copies of THE MINARET are free. Each additional copy is $1.00
“My friends are kayaking down their block. Things are only getting progressively worse. Nobody has power or cable or internet. My grandma has a land line that’s always supposed to work and even that’s not working. I just feel bad about the aftermath they are going to face.” –Jennifer Buckley Education, Senior
Huntington, NY
“I saw some pictures from a neighboring town and I was actually surprised with the devastation, I didn’t realize how some areas around my town were affected.” -Ciara Utz
Pre-Med, Sophomore Oakdale, CT
“Our house is right on the beach. It’s a tall house up on stilts so everything under the house, including an outdoor shower, water and propane tanks were washed away.” –Chelsea Althouse
Elem. Edu., Senior Old Lime, CT
“My mom said the gate in our backyard was blown off the hinges entirely.” -Kaylee Nonnemacher
Elem. Edu., Junior Leigh County, NY
“My mom works for the pier and it’s completely collapsed so she’s really worried about her job. The bay and the ocean near my summer house collided and destroyed my house. We rent it during the summer so now we can’t. I’m really worried about my mo, I might my home.” -Cass Nathan
Chemistry, Sophomore Ocean City, MD
“There’s been many house fires that fire trucks can’t get to because of the flooded streets, and some of my friends’ houses are almost completely under water.” -John Adams
Comm., Sophomore Massapequa Park, NY
NEWS + FEATURES
THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 1 2012
3
Obama, Romney Cancel Stops as Sandy Hits Coast By Meghan Zernick
UWire.com
As post-tropical cyclone Sandy rips through the east coast, leaving millions impacted and without power, President Barack Obama and former Mass. Gov. Mitt Romney are changing their plans for the week and have canceled their campaign visits to Wisconsin. With just a week left before the national election, Obama had planned a campaign stop in Green Bay and Romney had planned to speak in West Allis, Wis. this week, both of which were canceled in response to Sandy. Obama made a televised statement about the storm on Monday afternoon, requesting those citizens in the path of the storm take the situation very seriously and to listen to local and state government officials. He said he has spoken to the governors in all the states that are expected to be impacted, and Federal Emergency Management Agency personnel are working with state and local governments to makes sure everyone is prepared. “The key is making sure everyone is ready,” Obama said in his statement. “My conversations with the governors indicate that there are no unmet needs, and we are taking this seriously and have prepositioned all the resources needed.” Obama said the National Guard and the Department of Defense are positioned to provide aid, and citizens should anticipate transportation back-up caused by flooding and delays in getting the power back on. When asked about how he thinks the storm will affect the upcoming election, the president said he is not concerned with
Heck said hopes that this disaster might make the campaign less nasty, because candidates will be less likely to take jabs at one another now that there is a much bigger crisis to focus on. “We haven’t had a national disaster like this gavin68/Photobucket.com right before an President Obama and Gov. Romney greet eachother before one of the election in a long presidential debates. time — or possibly it at this point. ever. It might make the campaign even “I am not worried about the impact more trivial in light of the damaging on the election. I am worried about the effects of the storm,” Heck said. “The impact on families, the impact on first country ought to be on the same side responders and the impact on the economy during a natural disaster.” and transportation. The election will take Heck added the candidates are doing care of itself next week,” Obama said. the right thing by suspending their “Right now the number one priority is campaigns. saving lives.” Mike McCabe, executive director for One Common Cause in Wisconsin Wisconsin Now said he does not Executive Director Jay Heck said this is think the natural disaster will an interesting and unusual thing to happen have much of an effect on the right before a big election because it campaign, unless the Obama suspends everything. He said the timing Administration mishandles it. of the storm might affect the momentum “If there were to be a poor of the election, and whichever candidate response to the disaster, the is ahead might lose their edge. bad press about the Obama The main effect on Wisconsin, Heck Administration could have an said, is the change in travel schedules of effect on the outcome of the the candidates being changed. When the election,” McCabe said. worst of the storm is over, Heck said he McCabe said he thinks predicts an influx of campaign visits in since the campaign has to Wisconsin to win last minute votes.
From the Oct. 22 to Oct. 28 reports
Pound The Alarm On Oct. 25 at 4:25 p.m., a fire alarm was activated in Stadium Center. At Least Stay For Breakfast On Oct. 24 at 11:33 a.m., security responded to a call from a student stating she witness a hit and run in the west garage. Some Guys Just Can’t Hold Their Arsenic On Oct. 26 at 1:20 a.m., there was a report of possible alcohol poisoning in Austin Hall. Reports compiled by Yasi Sherbaf
Oh My Gosh...Shoes On Oct. 24 at 2:30 p.m., am immoblization device was placed on a vehicle in the visitor parking lot on North B St. I Swear It’s Oregano! On Oct. 26 at 12:28 a.m., marijuana and drug paraphernalia were found in a room search in Straz Hall. You Watched Pretty Little Liars Without Me!? On Oct. 25 at 1:13 a.m., two students were involved in a physical fight inside McKay Hall.
get out of coastal battle ground states such as Virginia and North Carolina, the candidates will wind up spending more time in Midwestern battleground states like Ohio and Wisconsin after the immediate dangers and impact of the storm subsides. As Obama and Romney’s presidential campaigns have halted because of the weather out east, the Midwest is also experiencing the effects of the storm, according to the Associated Press, which reported that The National Weather Service issued a warning for the Great Lakes region. The Port of Milwaukee is taking precautions because of the 15 foot waves expected to hit the coast. Pleasant Prairie, a village in the southeastern part of Wisconsin also had a voluntary evacuation Monday night because of potential high waves from Lake Michigan. Gov. Scott Walker also said the Wisconsin National Guard is standing by and can provide aid to other states if necessary.
On Tuesday, Oct. 30, Student Government met in Reeves Theater. Show your school spirit! Tampa Tuesdays - win free prizes by wearing UT gear. S.E.M.S. is hosting a co-ed sand volleyball tournament with free food and a DJ on Nov. 2 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. It is a 6 vs 6 game. Res Hall 7 will be open August 2013. If you want to pick the furniture and who gets to live there, attend RHA meetings and/or contact RHA President. Nov. 6 is the next GA, which will have an organization showcase. Contact sg@ut.edu to have a 3-5 minute performance in Reeves. UT ‘Moroccan’ Yearbook will host an event Nov. 5 from 12-4pm in Plant Park. “You Provide The Color” will have free rock climbing, cupcakes and painting. UT InterVarsity will host an open-mic night this Thursday in the Grand Salon at 8pm. UT Spartan Cup will be next Friday, Nov. 9. The Opening Ceremony will be at 7 p.m. and the game starts at 8 p.m. in Cass Gym.
4 NOVEMBER 1 2012 | THE MINARET
NEWS + FEATURES
Students can increase political awareness by attending event From APATHY Page 1
By ANNA BROWN, DANIELLE STREJC and LAYLA SOUCHET
decision,“ he said. pothole down the street and how the Abercrombie will be speaking at overall economy as it relates to Tampa the event and stresses the impact that may be faring. It’s really important that voting in this election will have not students get involved and get engaged. just on the nation, but also in our own Politics doesn’t necessarily have to be backyard. It is not just the president a dirty word.” that will be determined in this election. Abercrombie is a graduate from UT State representatives and city council and does not agree with the political members will apathetic also appear title given on the ballot. by the “We have an opinion and “ T h i s Princeton if you don’t get out to vote, election [is Review. your opinion isn’t going to be counted ... We have issues important] “To be that matter to us as students.” because we’re honest, UT selecting the kind of - Michelle Kerr president but gave me I also want my jump students to into politics pay attention and into and realize that small elections matter the election process. I would have to as well,” he said. “Your county refute that personally but I can’t speak commissioner has just as much if not for the whole student body at UT,” more say as to who is going to fix that Abercrombie said. “Actually with attending the University of Tampa and taking Gateways and global issues, I was able to network my way through CNN, the political area so I would actually credit the University of Tampa with my springboard to where I am now.” Mia Glatter can be reached at mia.glatter@ theminaretonline.com.
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As Election Nears, Opinions of Candidates Appear Clear
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News Writers
The debates and the ads are over, and everyone has formed an opinion. Whether you’re Jessica McCarron, president of The University of Tampa Democrats, Katie Yarrows, an Independent who leans towards the Democratic Party or Dion Roberts who would rather play video games than watch the debates, everyone will be affected by the results of the election on Nov. 6. McCarron, senior and a die-hard supporter of the Democratic Party, strongly encourages students to become politically active on campus. “Politicians ignore our generation because we do not vote. I challenge students to be a part of the solution, not part of the problem,” McCarron said. For the students at UT, McCarron stated that “together, we can make our voice heard.” As a resident of Massachusetts, Yarrows is directly affected by Governor Mitt Romney’s education plan. In the 10th grade, students take a test called the MCAS. “If you score at a certain level in the 10th grade, then you are automatically eligible to receive free tuition for any in-state public school,” Yarrows said. Under Romney’s policies, The University of Massachusetts gave Yarrows $1,700 out of the $26,000
required to attend the school for one year, with no additional financial aid. “And that’s why Obama has my vote,” Yarrows said. On the other hand, Roberts isn’t as enthusiastic as McCarron and Yarrows. “Although there are issues, neither of them have the ability to affect or even change [them] for that matter,” Roberts said. “I’m just voting for Obama because he hasn’t pissed me off yet.” After arguing over what channel to watch, Roberts and his roommates then turned off CNN, grabbed some controllers and began a game of FIFA. Anna Brown can be reached at anna.brown@spartans.ut.edu. Danielle Strejc can be reached at danielle.strejc@spartans.ut.edu. Layla Souchet can be reached at layla.souchet@spartans.ut.edu.
Photo courtesy of Paola Crespo Early voting is available from 10 days before the official election day until three days before.
NEWS + FEATURES
THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 1 2012
Hector Manley, ‘Paddling for a Purpose’
By YASAMAN SHERBAF
Kayaks Down Entire Mississippi River
Asst. News Editor
Hector Manley, a 2012 University of Tampa graduate, spoke on Monday, Oct. 29 at 7 p.m. about his five-month journey paddling over 2,500 miles down the Mississippi River. His purpose for the trip was to raise over $42,000 for The Wheelchair Foundation and The Wounded Warrior Project. The Office of Student Disability Services and The Diversity Fellowship sponsored Manley’s presentation. In addition to his journey, Manley discussed his goals in life such as the book that he has been working on about his journey. Manley has been featured in many different magazines and on television. His book will give a personal insight into his life and is coming out March of next year. He began the presentation demonstrating what makes him so different. Since he was a kid, his life has never been normal. This past April, Manley was named Salvadoran of the month. Choosing this person depends on one’s representation of courage, perseverance and being an overall good example for the community. For Manley to get chosen was “really humbling” for him. As a child, he never thought that he would have this opportunity. Born in El Salvador, Manley experienced a civil war, an earthquake and losing his legs as a child. He was told he only had five to 10 minutes to live but Manley lasted much longer than that. He now has prosthetic legs. “I don’t consider it a disability,” Manley says, “because it was a great opportunity to accomplish so many things.” Moving to the U.S. was a new experience for Manley. “It was like being a baby again,” he said. “I had to learn how to walk again, to talk and learn a whole new world around me which was the U.S.” The Manley family adopted him and gave him a new start. His parents in El Salvador had to make a really hard decision to let their son go. However, they knew it would benefit him greatly so that he could have a better future in the U.S. Manley said, “It was incredibly amazing for my parents, the decision that they made and it was such an emotional day when I graduated, having both sets of parents there and that I accomplished all my goals.” After landing in Detroit, he had three
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It is important to think that the biggest power in the world exists up here in your mind and you have that power and can help others in the community and around the world. - Hector Manley
a great achievement for him. He kept playing and by the end of 2008/2009, he came to UT and tried out for the team. Manley became a reserved player, meaning he would only play one tournament but he was happy. However, Manley stopped playing competitively and started focusing more on school. Two years ago, he had the idea of kayaking the Mississippi River. “When I decided to do it, I didn’t know it was 2,500 miles,” Samantha Battersby/The Minaret he said. He had never Manley discusses his 2,300-mile journey down the Mississippi travelled that far. Tampa River, raising money for two charities with which he is involved. to El Salvador is only goals in mind to accomplish – learn how about a thousand miles, to walk again, learn English and study. Nonetheless, Manley continued planning Manley said, “I had almost forgotten about his trip. His parents were with him the those goals until graduation at UT this entire trip. Manley’s roommate from UT, year.” Walking on stage to get his diploma Michael Weber, also joined the journey, this past May was a huge accomplishment. committing to 800 miles. He’d never seen prosthetics before until They thought that it would take them his legs were amputated as a child. 2,500 miles to get to the Gulf of Mexico Manley remembers wanting to run but but it actually took 2,300 miles. The river he stumbled many times. He lost track was really deep and Manley said, “I really of how many times he fell down but he hope it’s not like this all the way down.” kept getting up and never quit trying. At He had never seen the river before. first, he could not balance but overtime The journey was rough, with he practiced walking on the sidewalks in temperatures as low as 35 and as high as Ohio and became very happy that he was 112 degrees, but Manley knew he would learning to walk again. After two years, get it done over the next three months. Manley decided that he wanted to play “I would never stop after day one. It golf. He only saw it once on television but meant so much for me to get to that point decided to try it. It was hard being able that I just had to keep going.” The first to balance because every time he hit the day was the most difficult and Manley ball he would fall. Manley said, “I kept accomplished only eight miles. After wanting to hit the ball further. I am very that, he did 25 miles per day to make it competitive.” to New Orleans on time. “I would never About a year later, he ended up playing been able to do this without my parents for his high school team in Ohio, which was and my friend,” Manley said. “Not many people come across a friend like Weber in college. He even carried me sometimes.” The teamwork and support Manley experienced allowed him to continue with his goal. He wanted to make it to St. Louis for July 4. The middle of the river was experiencing its biggest drought in over 50 years. Sometimes it was so dry that Manley couldn’t see the water. When the water was on the very edge of the river, Manley would have to work harder since there was no current. Staying hydrated was important during this trip, but at one point they ran out of fresh water and had to filter water from the muddy river. Over the course of the trip, Manley did not sleep for a total of 13 days. After 2,300 miles, Manley finished his journey outside New Orleans. He completed his goal after two years of extensive planning. Manley’s first thought after completing his trip was, “I don’t have to do this the next day.” Hector Manley - Padding for a Purpose/Facebook.com An average of eight to 10 people Manley kayaking on the Mississippi River during the summer of 2012. do the same thing Manley did this past
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summer but instead of kayaking, they canoe. Canoeing allows people to carry more supplies and to have a better mileage. They can complete the journey in less than two months. For Manley though, the whole trip was about the charities, the Wheelchair Foundation and the Wounded Warrior Project. The Wheelchair Foundation takes wheelchairs to third world countries and gives them to people who wouldn’t normally have access to them. “Sitting on the floor is a completely different way of looking at the world,” Manley said. Manley will meet the founder of the foundation, who used to own the Seattle Seahawks football team, in a few weeks. The founder loved Manley’s project and spoke to him on the river. Manley also raised money for the Wounded Warrior Project, a project for injured veterans who come back from war. Manley said, “Since I came back to this country, with all of the involvement in the Middle East, it meant a lot to me to do my part because I have a lot of friends in the military.” He finds it strange explaining patriotism because he was born in a different country but has lived in the U.S. for quite sometime now. Manley believes that if it weren’t for all the great men and women risking their lives everyday, he would not have had all the opportunities that he’s had. Manley raised $42,000 total. The money will go towards the foundations, sending wheelchairs to El Salvador and Honduras and the rest to the Warrior Project. “I get to present the money in a big check, not like the real checks, at Walter Reed,” Manley said. “I have received so much help from strangers and I want to give that back to help others. It is important to think that the biggest power in the world exists up here, in your mind and you have that power and can help others in the community and around the world.” He wants people to understand that they can make a big difference in the world and is very fortunate to help the people around him. Setting goals is a huge part of making a difference. Setting goals has always been part of Manley’s life and his next goal is writing a book, which will come out next year. As far as what comes next for Manley, he plans on trying something different again in two years. A firm believer in second chances, Manley’s experiences have made him a stronger, better person with a different outlook on life. Manley ended the presentation with these words, “If you know you can do something, you should try it.” For more information on Manley, you can visit his website at paddlingforapurpose.org, facebook.com/ paddlingforapurpose and follow him on twitter at @hecmanley. Yasaman Sherbaf can be reached at yasaman.sherbaf@theminaretonline.com.
6 NOVEMBER 1 2012 | THE MINARET
Diversions
Sudoku
The Weekend Update Honors Symposium Nov. 1
Macdonald-Kelce Library AV 2 7 - 8 p.m. Free
Energii Wellness Expo Nov. 2
Outside Sykes Chapel Center for Faith and Values 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Free
First Friday Concert Nov. 2
Sykes Chapel Center for Faith and Values 12 - 12:30 p.m. Free
Rush Concert Nov. 3
1-800-Ask-Gary Ampitheatre 7:30 p.m. PrintableSudokuPuzzles.net
Picture
WEEK of the
Photo by Taylor Sanger/The Minaret Dancers get sensual during Michelle De La Lastra’s piece titled Where Have You Been in the Fall Dance Happening last week.
$40 - $125
Pianist Grigorios Zamparas Nov. 4
Sykes Chapel Center for Faith and Values 2 - 3 p.m. Free
Honors Symposium Nov. 6
Scarfone-Hartley Gallery, Bailey Art Center 4 - 5 p.m. Free
Writers at the University presents Rosalynde Vas Dias Nov. 6
Board of Trustees Room in Vaughn Center (9th floor) 7 - 9 p.m. Free
Go Radio Concert Nov. 7
The Ritz Ybor 6:30 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.) $12
Scholarly Tapas featuring Art Hollist and Andy Solomon Nov. 8
Music Room of Plant Hall 4 p.m. Free
Arts + Entertainment
THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 1 2012
7
Fall Dance Happening Pieces Seduced and Haunted in Honor of Halloween
By XELMARIE MEDINA Arts + Entertainment Writer
Falk Theater has a cheerful vibe. Dancers chattered away, helped each other with makeup and costumes and practiced the latest additions to dance routines. This year, Fall Dance Happening routines were even more entertaining and high energy. With many dances inspired by Halloween, Fall Dance Happening promised to deliver all kinds of enchantment and mystery. Gordon Bonnet, a senior music major, choreographed the first piece of the evening. His dance focused on the journey people go through as young adults in order to find their place in society. With a fusion of classical and techno music (which he composed himself) and bright and playful costumes, Bonnet managed to portray his message quite successfully. Following Bonnet’s piece was Katie Kutcha’s Nightmares in Twilight Zone, a piece that depicted the déjà vu feeling that comes after a sequence of dreams and/or nightmares. Through adequate lighting techniques, dark uniforms and eerie music, the audience went through time and space o further understand the menacing sensation that nightmares create. Lindsey Goldaper choreographed the third installment on the show titled To the Ends of The Earth. This lyrical and moving dance was about following a one true love no matter where they go. The dancers’ simple yet symbolic wardrobe carried the underlying message meshed perfectly with the complex message of the piece. For those Halloween lovers out there, Photos by Taylor Sanger/The Minaret senior Rhiannon Crawford choreographed a piece that woke the dead. Clockwise from top left: Dancers act as frustrated housewives in Liz “As a child, I did many theatrical Fratellone’s piece; A dancer in Lindsey Goldaper’s piece To the Ends of The pieces, so I combined that with my Earth; Dancers act as Britney Spears in Lauren Albro’s dance Me Against the favorite holiday [Halloween] and my music; A dancer brings out her inner nerd in Jordan Maltese’s hip hop routine; passion for tap dancing in order to and two dancers bring Cuba to UT in Angelique Ramirez’s piece. inspire me,” Crawford said. Crawford, a second-time Dance Happening aprons and white pearl necklaces that “choked” them choreographer, portrayed the dark and riveting side from liberty while the male dancer wore a suit and of Halloween with a fast-paced tap dance, bone- smoked a cigar. How much can a housewife take chilling zombie makeup and intense zombie-like before they snap? facial expressions. The audience then scurried to the Verandah at “I recycled some costumes I had. My friends and Plant Hall for the second half of the performance. It I also went to the thrift store, dripped some fake is tradition for the second half of Dance Happening blood on them and even burned them in the corners,” to be performed here. The show commenced with Crawford said. Angelique Ramirez’s piece which was inspired by After Crawford’s piece, Laura Green’s dancers her trip to Cuba and her culture. Based in 1959, performed Internal Demise. It focused on the this piece included colorful costumes, a lot of hip allurement humans feel toward the dark things in life. shaking action and the typical Don Juan surrounded Through attention to detail in costuming with black by beautiful ladies. corsets and sensual stockings, they helped portray how Following the cultural theme, Natalie Osayende fun and pleasurable the dark could be. choreographed her piece inspired by Beni, Nigeria, Two enchantresses conjured a monster in senior the land of color and earth defying movement. Amanda Sieradzki’s piece. Dissonance portrayed how Dancers performed to traditional African drum beats both good and evil can help shape us as a whole. The and presented a style of dance that was unique to many fairies wore white and gold to symbolize “good” while of the other dances. dancers Emily Peduto and Elisha Sayed wore black to UT alumni Amy Kerr’s glamorous piece, Underneath symbolize evil. Dancer Scout Duquette danced in only the City Lights, was sexy, fun and upbeat. It had a one toe shoe to emphasize her halfling life, born as Broadway jazz feel to it that left audience members half good and half evil. humming Christina Aguilera after the show ended. Sophomore Hailey Hendrickson, one of the fairies, First time choreographer Lauren Abro choreographed said, “The dances this year were more Halloween Me Against the Music. One group of dancers portrayed themed which makes them even more fun.” Madonna with suspenders and top hats. The other group Following this tale was Shaniqua Rogers’s piece portrayed Britney Spears with vests and ties. These titled A Mile in Her Shoes. Inspired by military two diva groups competed for attention by enticing the wives and the hardships they go through as their audience with some skillful dancing. family members are away at war, the dancers began Michelle De La Lastra’s piece, Where Have you with a slow introduction that gradually built up. The Been, focused on finding true love. Although, it frustration and sadness was so perfectly expressed on wasn’t the typical fairy tale love story. It inferred that the dancers’ faces. sultriness is a better route to finding true love with its Liz Fratellone’s dance, which told the story of a saucy routine. typical housewife in the 50s and 60s, finalized the In contrast, Ashley Sooklal’s piece embodied the dances in Falk Theater. Female dancers wore red desire of love rather than lust. After the intense dances
that preceded this piece, the audience got a chance to mellow down and enjoy a more laidback fusion of hip hop, lyrical and jazz. Last but not least, senior Jordan Maltese ended Fall Dance Happening with a bang. This was Maltese’s third time choreographing. A group of nerds cannot resist the urge dance whenever music comes on. They all sat in class then instantly busted out into some detailed hip hop choreography the moment the music began to play. Crawford encouraged students to try out for future Dance Happenings. “There is something out there for everyone. Us choreographers are always looking for something different, something new, something that you couldn’t see in yourself,” Crawford said. Just don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes and your passion to move. Xelmarie Medina can be reached at xelmymedina@ gmail.com.
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NOVEMBER 1 2012 | THE MINARET
ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT
‘Psychedelic Pill’ Takes a Groovy Trip Back in Time By ERIC DUFFERT
Arts + Entertainment Writer
When an old man decides to take a look back at his own life, it’s probably a good idea to listen—especially if that old man is rock and roll legend Neil Young. Young is not an artist who suffers much from writer’s block. With a prolific career spanning more than four decades, Young has managed to think up enough decent material to fill 34 studio albums and, as of recently, a 500-page autobiography. It’s this memoir (Waging Heavy Peace) that serves as the pivotal inspiration behind Young’s latest release Psychedelic Pill. With not one but two rock and roll Hall of Fame inductions and multiple Grammys to his name, Young is unquestionably one of the genre’s greatest songwriters. With such an illustrious career, it’s no wonder he has so much to talk about. Since 500 pages just wasn’t enough of a platform for Young, this twodisc studio album gives him the musical outlet to muse on everything from politics to poetry to lost love. As one might suspect from a seasoned musician of 40-plus years, it’s all fascinating stuff. In fact, Young provides more humbling and honest insight than most rock star autobiographical albums combined. Psychedelic Pill is vintage Young. Grungy guitar solos and extended jams are sprinkled throughout the album. Given some of the tracks’ extensive lengths, Young just might have jammed a little too much. The nine tracks range from a meager two minutes to a marathon
of half an hour. It’s a ballsy move, but it pays off. The album opens with the towering 27 minute opus “Driftin’ Back,” which to some might seem like a self-indulgence on Young’s part. On the other hand, given the artist’s famed acerbity, I’m sure he couldn’t care less. Besides, one listener’s self-indulgence is another listener’s genius. The song itself is a statement on the turmoil of the 1960s.
It’s an angry song pointing to the nation’s failure in Vietnam and a society crippled by constant disagreement. It is the kind of song that demands epic length and gets it without question. Tracks “Ramada Inn” and “Walk Like a Giant” feature the same unhurried, expansive style. The first is a narrative on a long-term relationship tested by alcoholism. “Walk like a Giant” takes a lighter approach with a whistled refrain
and several whimsical guitar solos. The song “Psychedelic Pill” is pretty flimsy stuff in comparison to the rest of the album. Here, Young finds a decent riff and lets a fragment of a tune cling onto it for dear life. According to Rolling Stone magazine, he even introduced it during an August show in Red Rocks, Colo. by admitting, “It’s a new song but it sounds exactly like an old song. I don’t even know what it is.” Young’s wafer-thin passion makes this track one to bypass. At the center of Psychedelic Pill is a cranky and boisterous little country number entitled “Born in Ontario,” which compresses the ample themes of this engaging album into one perfectly stated track. It effortlessly encompasses roots, philosophy, family, life on the road, the pursuit of freedom and the consolations of writing. It really is Young in a nutshell. To some, Psychedelic Pill will seem like a monumental work of self-indulgence. To others, though, its thematically expansiveness and eccentricity make it one of the purest expressions of Young’s genius to date. At its core, Psychedelic Pill is an album inspired by the writing of a book, an album that is at its most profound when the words are engulfed by the greatly irresistible weight of music. Eric Duffert can be reached at eduffert@aol.com.
Critic’s Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
‘Wreck-It Ralph’ Falls Short Compared to Other Disney-Pixar Films By GRIFFIN GUINTA
Arts + Entertainment Writer
As an avid Disney fan as a child (and now as well), I went to the screening of Wreck-It Ralph with high expectations. For as long as I’ve known, Disney-Pixar collaboration films have never ceased to captivate the inner child in me. The creative storylines, exceptional graphics and comical voice acting always seemed to amalgamate into one magical Disney product. For Wreck-It Ralph, Disney-Pixar used a similar formula as they did to all their other films. The characters were brought to life by popular celebrities such as John C. Reilly and Jane Lynch, the visuals were absolutely stunning and the concept of the film itself was brilliant. Yet, there was one thing that bothered me about the film as a whole. As I watched it, it didn’t feel like the Pixar I knew. It had all the components of a typical Pixar flick, but the plot wasn’t as exciting or innovative as I expected. The “video game world” setting was certainly something new, but the plot seemed to lean on the generic side. As a whole, it seemed to lack the originality of its predecessors like Toy Story and Monsters Inc. To be clear, this was not a bad film. It just seemed a bit underwhelming for a Disney-Pixar collaboration. Despite the disappointment, though, the movie still had its bright spots and kept me entertained for the majority of the time. The film tells the story of Ralph (John C. Reilly), a disgruntled video game character that’s tired of perpetually being the “bad” guy. After constantly watching the protagonist of his videogame be
lauded with praise and ovation for his heroic deeds, Ralph takes it upon himself to prove that he can be a hero as well. The entire film takes place in an arcade, which will surely appease video game fanatics who have been waiting for a gamer-friendly Disney flick for years. As Ralph hops from game to game in search of a way to alter his villainous image, notable video game characters such as Bowser, Tapper and Pac-Man all make cameo appearances, giving a realistic feel to the arcade that’s portrayed in the film. As Ralph continues his journey, he winds up in a candy-themed racing game called “Sugar Rush” where he befriends a bubbly young girl named Venellope Von Schweetz (Sarah Silverman) and learns from her what being a true hero really means. In terms of visuals, the creative team behind the film certainly deserves high praise. The thrilling effects transported me into the colorful, action-packed videogame world. If you take into account the level of precision and detail put into a single animated shot, you know the lengths in which the animators go to in order to deliver an eye-catching product. Normally I hate seeing movies in 3D, but with Wreck-It Ralph it worked in its favor. Another aspect that the producers definitely got right was the choice of voice actors. From John C. Reilly’s bumbling and goofy persona, Sarah Silverman’s bratty sass and Jane Lynch’s authoritative, badass tone, each character was truly brought to life. In particular, Reilly really transforms Ralph into a loveable bad guy as Ralph’s awkward
jokes, clumsy phrases and silly mannerisms are all enhanced by Reilly’s comical bravado. Going back to my one main criticism that it didn’t feel like a Disney-Pixar film, here’s my rationale. Yes, it’s true that most children’s films follow the stereotypical plot where a hero has to overcome some kind of conflict and defeat the bad guy, so I won’t rip Wreck-It Ralph for being too plain. I guess I was just expecting more comedy, more character development and a deeper sense of coherency. Without giving away too much, Wreck-It Ralph had an amazing setup for success with everything it brought to the table but failed to bring that magical Disney charm that is so often found in their films. Wreck-It Ralph certainly has engaging features that won’t disappoint. In the end, it’s still a Disney-Pixar movie, and those are always entertaining no matter what. But by the time you’ve left this arcade you may not want to select “Play Again.” Griffin Guinta can be reached at griffinguinta@gmail.com.
Critic’s Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT
THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 1 2012
9
Empanada Recipe Makes Great Party Appetizer By KELLY ST. ONGE
Asst. Arts + Entertainment Editor
If there is one thing I love it’s trying new foods from varying cultures. What I love more than going out to eat is making the food myself, and the quicker the better. My fiancé and his family are from Perú, and one of my favorite things his dad makes are empanadas. An empanada is a moon-shaped piece of dough filled with the meat of your choice. It’s small enough to eat as a snack and easy enough to prepare for lunch the next day instead of the usual sandwich. Every time his dad prepares these I have to eat a minimum of two. The smell of warm dough and perfectly seasoned ground beef fill the air. The crisp flakes on the outside of the empanada and the chewy interior melt in my mouth. I asked his dad for the recipe for an in-class assignment and have used it twice. Both times I got positive feedback from my peers on “my” empanadas.
Ingredients: - Tapas para empanadas for the oven; these are small, rounded pieces of dough that can be found at most Latin grocery stores. I use the Fargo brand. One pack makes 16 empanadas. - 1 pound of ground beef - 2 tablespoons of olive oil - 1/2 of an onion - Fresh garlic to taste. I usually use one or two pieces from a clove.
- Salt to taste - Pepper to taste - 5 eggs - Peruvian black olives (these can be omitted if you don’t like olives)
Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Instructions:
1) Start by putting a small pot of water on the stove at medium-high heat and let the temperature rise to a boil. 2) While you are waiting on the water to boil, dice the half onion into small squares along with the fresh garlic. 3) Place a quart-sized pan on medium heat on the stove with the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. 4) As the water comes to a boil put four of the five eggs into the pot. Let them cook until they are boiled all the way through. Save the last egg for later. 5) When your pan with the olive oil has heated up put the onion and garlic into the pan. Let the onion and garlic simmer, checking on them occasionally for 5-7 minutes. 6) Once the onion and garlic have been simmering for 5-7 minutes, add in the pound of ground beef and let it cook until there is no pink in it. 7) Finally, when the meat is cooked and the eggs are boiled, take the tapas para empanadas out of the refrigerator. You don’t want to take them out until you are ready to use them because if they get too soft they will be hard to seal.
Kelly St. Onge/The Minaret
Empanadas have a golden-brown glow and crispy shell when they come out of the oven.
8) Cut the boiled eggs into quarters. 9) Take the last egg, crack it open into a small bowl and beat it with a fork. You will use the last egg as an egg wash for the empanadas before you put them in the oven. 10) Fill each empanada with a tablespoon of ground beef, a quarter of an egg and a quarter of a Peruvian olive. Keep all of the ingredients in the center of the round piece of dough. 11) Fold the dough in half so it looks like a moon pie. To keep the edges sealed, put some water around the rim of the dough so when it comes together it stays together. Squeeze the edges to make sure they don’t come apart.
12) Take the egg from the small bowl and brush on the top of the empanada so it will give it a nice golden-brown glow and make it crisp on the outside. Put the empanadas in the oven at 350º F for 15 minutes. Now you have 16 treats to share with friends and family. If you like them as much I do you will want to save some for lunch the next day. There are a few steps involved, but overall it’s pretty simple and easy. Use this recipe for your next get together and I guarantee they will be a hit! Kelly St. Onge can be reached at kelly.st.onge@theminaretonline.com.
Other Competitors May Give Usual Speech Contest Winner Run for His Money choice in topic, style of speech and even just any tips I can provide,” Bourn said. Bourn’s notorious winning streak has won Arts + Entertainment Writer him lots of attention from his competitors. On Nov. 9, the University of Tampa “Who hasn’t heard of Tim Bourn and his will hold its Bi-Annual Speech Contest. accomplishments?” said Teree’ Douglas, a Participants will discuss a topic of their junior theater major. choice for six to eight minutes, and the While many competitors know about speaker with the strongest speech wins $150. Bourn’s winning streak, they are not nervous One of the participants is Timothy Bourn, a about it. student who has been very successful in the “I’m not intimidated since there’ll past few campus speech competitions. be recognition for the top few places,” “I have entered the speech contest said Russell McBurnie, a freshman prefour times, and I have won four times,” law major. Bourn said. “He [Bourn] and I competed in speech Bourn, a junior theater major, has competitions,” Matthew Saintsing said, a spoken about a variety of topics including senior government and world affairs major. cognitive neuroscience, sweaters, coffee “I’m not intimidated, but I am impressed and theater. He has also given advice to by his public speaking gift. He is one of the other competitors. most eloquent, intelligent young men I know “I’ve gotten questions ranging from and I’m more honored to be in the same competition with him as opposed to being intimidated by him.” With the competition just around the corner, the participants have been working hard to nail down their speeches. “I have been preparing for a couple weeks now,” said Kelsey Lay, a sophomore marketing major. “I try to edit it and add to it every now and then when I get the time.” “I am entering one of my speeches from my honors communications course,” said McBurnie. “So I practiced about a week earlier this year Photo Courtesy of Tim Bourn and will practice again the week of the competition after I do my other speech Tim Bourn has gone undefeated in the Bi-Annual for my course.” Speech Contest for the past four semesters. Although McBurnie and Lay admit By JAKE KONISZEWSKI
this is their first time competing in UT’s speech contest, Saintsing has competed against Bourn twice before. “The first time I entered was for the extra credit in a speech class,” Saintsing said. “This time, I entered because it’s fun and a challenge.” Although Douglas has not competed in UT’s speech competition, she is no novice. “I won first place at a Martin Luther King Jr. speech contest when I was seventeen,” said Douglas. Although Bourn still has a few more semesters left before he graduates, he has planned ahead. “I will most likely continue on to
graduate school and work toward my terminal degree in acting and directing,” Bourn said. The competition will take place at Riverside room 107 from 6-9 p.m. next Friday night. If you have a friend who is competing, want to learn from skilled public speakers or are just looking for something to do, feel free to stop by. For those of you who want to participate next semester, Bourn has some advice: “Talk about something you love. Talk about something you want to share with others. Most importantly, have fun doing it.” Jake Koniszewski can be reached at john. koniszewski@spartans.ut.edu.
10 NOVEMBER 1 2012 | THE MINARET
ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT
Beards Turn Boys Into Men During No Shave November By NATALIE HICKS
Arts + Entertainment Editor
When I think of No Shave November, images of hairy lumberjacks and freespirited hippie women pop into my mind. Whether these stereotypes hold true or not, avid participation in No Shave November is certainly not a figment of my imagination. Over the past few years, this event has steadily grown in popularity especially with high school and college students. The goal is to not shave for the entire month of November. At the end of the month, friends compare each other’s mustaches and beards to see who grew out the the most gnarly facial hair. It can either be a competition on how creative the style of mustache is or perhaps on how full the beard is. The movement began in 2004 with the Movember Foundation. A combination of the words “mustache” and “November,” men attempt to grow out gnarly mustaches and beards to raise men’s health awareness concerning prostate cancer, testicular cancer, depression and other health issues. The varsity men’s lacrosse team participated in No Shave November last year and will do so again this year. Most of them tend to go for the mustache look. “We can collect pledges for growing them for the whole month. It’s kind of an incentive to keep growing it when you think you look ridiculous,” sophomore lacrosse player Mike Tyrrell said. “We do it so we can raise money for prostate and testicular cancer research.” Although, this year they’re taking it to the next level to support the cause that
much more. They are going to try to sell Movember T-shirts to raise money for the campaign.
The lacrosse team also enjoys the competition aspect just to see which of them can develop the coolest and most
Leah Beilhart/The Minaret
A student shows off his beard that he has been growing out. Hopefully he plans on continuing to grow it out during the month of November for No Shave November.
unique mustaches. “Everybody is usually pretty entertained by the strange styles and by the guys who can only grow about 6 hairs on their upper lip,” Tyrrell said. No Shave November is not just for men. Many women participate every year, as well. Instead of challenging their friends to who can grow the most full-out beard without any patchy spots, they judge each other based on length and thickness of leg hair. Some people find it somewhat repulsive if girls participate in No Shave November, but some girls find it liberating. Also, it’s less of a responsibility because shaving legs takes so much time and effort. In the winter, girls wear leggings, jeans and pants most of the time anyway. “I hate shaving so I wouldn’t mind doing it [No Shave November.] It’s so pointless. It takes like 20 minutes of your time, and it’s thicker if you shave it so you’re better off not shaving it,” Lexi Holland said, a junior elementary education major. More and more girls have started to take interest in No Shave November not for the competition aspect but just to simply take a break from shaving. Whether you decide to partake in No Shave November to justify being hygienically lazy or to prove to your friends that you can, in fact, grow a beard in order to prove your manliness, have fun with it. Movember promotes a good cause, and No Shave November in general is freedom of expression. Happy no shaving, ‘Merica. Natalie Hicks can be reached at natalie.hicks@theminaretonline.com.
Would You Pay $10,000 for an Internship with a Fashion Designer? By JESSICA KEESEE Associate Editor
As an aspiring fashion journalist who daydreams about quilted Chanel handbags and can style an entire outfit with one glance at a blouse, the thought of interning with designer royalty like Oscar de la Renta, Balenciaga, M Missoni and Valentino would be worth its weight in designer couture. I’m not the only person vying for such rare opportunities, however, and those designers clearly know how desirable their internships are. Now that Paris Fashion Week is over, the four fashion houses are offering summer 2013 internships, but for a price. So if you want to intern at Balenciaga, be prepared to pay $10,000 and some change. The four fashion houses have teamed up with the global auction site charitybuzz. com to auction off internships with proceeds going to Rosie’s Theater Kids, a New York City based charity that promotes children’s arts education and gives them experience in the theater. The charity was started by Rosie O’Donnell. The internships auctioned off will have interns working in the head offices of the four designers in New York City for a month. The interns will be given school credit and the opportunity to work in departments such as sales, public relations and merchandising. All four internships are unpaid. The Balenciaga internship specifies that interns will be responsible for working in the wholesale department, assisting in marketing campaigns and model castings, going to product training sessions at stores including Barneys and Bergdorf Goodman
and gathering information from company sales reports. The internships are currently estimated to be worth about $10,000 each, but bids have come in low. The Balenciaga bid stands at $5,250 as of Oct. 30, and the winning bidder will not only get the highly sought after internship but will also get
to receive any bids. All four auctions end Friday, Nov. 2 and are limited to students at least 18 years of age who are enrolled in accredited colleges and universities both in the U.S. and other countries. In 2010, Vogue held a similar internship offering the chance to work under Editor-inChief Anna Wintour for a week. The proceeds
Graphic by Natalie Hicks/The Minaret
Some fashion houses like Valentino and Oscar de la Renta are selling internships for thousands of dollars. They then donate the money to charities.
to take home a Balenciaga bag of their choice. So far, Balenciaga has the highest bid. Oscar de la Renta’s bid stands at $2,750, Valentino’s at $850 and M Missoni has yet
went to the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights and the winning bid amounted to a whopping $42,500. That’s nearly two years of tuition at the University of Tampa for a week to work under Anna
Wintour. Another dream of mine would be to work for a fashion magazine as esteemed as Vogue, but I could never justify spending two years of tuition for a week of unpaid work and no guarantee of a job there in the future. I would gladly work for free for a rare internship at any of these major fashion houses but I draw the line at paying. Internships are typically unpaid for. Why would someone pay money to work for free? The concept is absurd. At first glance, the idea seemed sweet. After all, all the proceeds are going to a charity for children. Then I really thought about it. These fashion houses are nothing short of wealthy. These are major designers in a multi-billion dollar fashion industry. Could they not donate to the charities themselves rather than auctioning off unpaid internships? To put it simply, these designers are making money off of their own workers. That seems a little backwards to me. Lauren Beth Dean from the University of Brighton thought similarly. “Glamorising unpaid internships and (more significantly) encouraging students to pay to do them is not helping create jobs with fashion,” said Dean to dailymail. com. “How about Balenciaga and Co. just give money to charity themselves, without fueling this internship trade that is allowing designers to create a business without ever having to employ anyone.” No one should have to pay for a job, especially one as demanding as a position in the fashion industry. Free bag or not, no internship is worth paying $42,500, $10,000, $850 or even $5 for that matter. Jessica Keesee can be reached at jessica. keesee@theminaretonline.com.
THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 1 2012
Opinion
11
UT Students: Who They are Voting for and Why Liberal Perspective
By ALEX CARABALLO
insurance companies has been a huge issue. Opinion Columnist Obama has proudly stood for a woman’s right to make her own reproductive choices. Election Day is this coming Tuesday, Nov. 6 Romney’s record in terms of healthcare and for many on this campus, including myself, was stellar in Massachusetts, so much so that he this will be the first opportunity for UT students himselfstatedinaninterviewin2009onCNNthat to vote in a presidential election. This election his plan was “a model for the nation.” Romney, presents a real choice for which direction we however, in accepting his party’s nomination want the country to head in. This year I proudly has disavowed his signature healthcare plan and has promised to repeal “Obamacare.” Romney’s official website states, “On his first day in office, Romney will issue an executive order that paves the way for the federal government to issue Obamacare waivers to all fifty states. He will then work with Congress to repeal the full legislation as quickly as possible.” Romney would repeal healthcare reform and that would leave many uninsured, including myself. Many on this campus would also lose their health insurance in a administration. ProfessorofTruth/Flickr.com Romney Barack Obama should be re-elected as president on Election Day This would lead to students being unable to afford seeing voted early for Barack Obama for president their doctor or receiving medication that could because I believe that his leadership has and be crucial. will continue to lead this country in the right The final critical issue to be discussed is the direction. economy. This is an issue that every student The election outcome has repercussions that will face as it will affect all of our job prospects will affect many on a deeply personal level. For when we graduate. many on this campus, the choice has yet to be The month that President Obama was made. I will layout the three main policy areas sworn into office, the nation was losing 779,000 that I think will directly affect college students jobs a month, according to the Bureau of Labor and give an overview of both candidates’ Statistics. This past month, the economy positions and explain how I came to my decision added 114,000 jobs. To go from losing almost to vote for Barack Obama. a million jobs a month to a constant growing One of the biggest issues facing college rate of jobs has been a huge feat by President students is the cost of attending school. President Obama. We are nowhere near where we Obama doesn’t have any vague rhetoric on need to be in terms of job growth, but when this issue but rather a solid record. Nestled in considering the task the president faced, it has the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act been a herculean effort to get this economy (Obamacare) was a provision for a complete back on its feet. overhaul of the student loan industry which cut President Obama has put the economy private banks out of the lending process. The back on stable footing by passing the stimulus Department of Education became a direct lender bill, which according to the Congressional which cut interest rates down to 6.8 percent. Not Budget Office, created or saved 3.6 million only were interest rates cut, but Pell Grants were jobs. The president also passed the Doddincreased to a maximum of $5,500. Frank financial reform legislation that Mitt Romney for his part has no substantive reigned in Wall Street excess and has the laid plan to lower the cost of school for college the foundation for solid consistent economic students, only vague promises to create more growth. jobs and that federal loans are the problem. This Romney’s approach to the economy is is directly from the official Romney web site, to go back to many of the same policies of “America’s traditional community and fourGeorge W. Bush. His plan is to give $5 trillion year colleges are the heart of our nation’s higher more in tax cuts for the wealthy while gutting education system. However, a flood of federal popular exemptions used by the middle class dollars is driving up tuition and burdening too such as the Higher Education Tax Credit. many young Americans with substantial debt Here is a portion of the plan taken from and too few opportunities.” the Romney website site, “A Romney Romney would repeal healthcare reform, administration will act swiftly to tear thus lowering the amount Pell Grants give down the vast edifice of regulations the and bringing back private loans. The Romney Obama administration has imposed on the position is that federal government spending in economy.” Romney wants to get rid of Wall education is driving the rising cost of education. Street reform and allow the finance industry His plan is to gut student loans and Pell Grants, to go back to the days of unregulated excess thus not allowing poor students to attend college that crashed the economy in the first place. and decrease the cost of college for everyone There are stark differences in the else. plans of both the candidates which will Healthcare is an extremely important issue leave a stark choice to be made by voters. to many on this campus as our healthcare As a student at the University of Tampa, system is based on obtaining employment that I have personally benefitted from the many students do not have. This is another area policies of President Obama. A Romney President Obama has a solid record in. administration threatens to remove many Obama passed healthcare reform which of the progressive reforms that have allows students, including myself, to stay on helped students over the past four years. their parents’ plan until they are 26. This allows This is the reason why I proudly filled the students to attend school without the worry of oval this year for President Obama. being uninsured. For many of the women on this Alex Caraballo can be reached at alex. campus,themandatedcoverageofbirthcontrolby caraballo@spartans.ut.edu.
Conservative Perspective
By RICHARD J WHITAKER Opinion Columnist
the nation’s future than attacking his political opponent. Frankly, it seems that the majority of the president’s messages are negative, empty and reveal his combative nature. We need a leader who can compromise and work solutions, not someone who simply keeps score and becomes more divisive with each passing day. Romney has been attacked by the dirty Obama campaign throughout the election for his business successes, as if we should think less of him because of his hard work, keen mind and clever decisions. As a voter, I cannot imagine why I might hold these things against him. To the contrary, this is what the American dream is all about, and this is the type of man I want leading us out from under the mountain of
As both presidential candidates have continuously reminded us, we, the American people, have an important decision to make within the next couple of days. This decision will determine who will lead our great nation for the next four years. President Obama has had four years to place his ideas into motion, which do include a number of good ideas. Unfortunately, he is better at talking about his ideas than working with the Congress to make these ideas a reality. Our country is a mess. Hopefully, you understand the immense scope of that mess. Furthermore, it is vital to understand that the blame goes back many years, includes numerous administrations and is fairly cast at the feet of both parties. We need a leader, someone who can lead others to embrace his ideas, place them in motion and begin digging our nation out from under the mountain of debt that now threatens our future. The current president has had four years to do this, and has failed. I’m sure he is a good man, wants to do well and wishes to see our nation move forward, but he is simply unable to lead us in a forward direction. I believe the Taylor Sanger/The Minaret choice is clear. We will Governor Mitt Romney deserves to be elected as president. either continue forward toward an almost certain chaos, failure and disappointment or problems that we now face. Does this vote for Governor Romney and give not hint towards what he could do for him the opportunity to do what he has this nation? I believe that the answer repeatedly proven over his professional is unequivocally yes. His multitude of and political career that he can do: successes stand as powerful evidence lead and succeed. The voter has to that he can lead and succeed. determine whether or not to trust a Fellow citizens, we are in trouble. man who had his chance and failed, or We need to fix our internal problems a man with a proven track record for and we need to work together. If we success who will bring this nation to a fail to find success in the next decade, time of prosperity. I fear we are lost. We stand at a critical In the latest series of commercials, juncture in our history. the president argues that he has We must choose the right leader, achieved much success, but as I look one who has proven business mettle around at the state of our union, and understanding of the mechanics of economy, foreign alliances, efficiency commerce and economy. of government and strength of our The president had four years to military, I wonder if he really believes prove he is that man, and I sincerely that we are moving forward. It seems believed that he tried, but that he impossible for him think we are making simply did not have the right stuff. He progress when almost every neutral is a good man who worked hard, but he indicator contradicts his message. simply does not have the experience The debates have been more of a and knowledge base to succeed on this spectacle than any true measure of who incredibly complex stage. the better choice is to lead this nation. Because of his background and track Quite honestly, by the last debate, I record I truly believe Romney has the found myself tuning in merely to count experience and knowledge to continue how many times the president would the long string of successes that he has tell Governor Romney it was his turn already amassed. to talk when he himself could not stop It is absolutely vital that we, the interrupting the governor. American people, go to the polls and The only debate that truly mattered vote responsibly, and we must vote for to me was the first one. It was the most who will lead us into a brighter future. memorable simply because Romney Richard J Whitaker can be reached laid out his plan and left me with the at richard.whitaker@spartans.ut.edu. impression that he is more focused on
12 NOVEMBER 1 2012 | THE MINARET
OPINION
Meningitis Outbreak Could Have Been Prevented By AVERY TWIBLE Opinion Writer
The New England Compounding Center (NECC) has been under investigation since September due to its production and dispersion of tainted steroids that have led to an outbreak of fungal meningitis. The steroid injection was mainly used to treat chronic back pain. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 338 people in the U.S. have reported cases of meningitis in 18 states, and the death toll has now risen to 25, three in Florida alone. NECC shares ownership of a specialist company called Ameridose LLC in Massachusetts that directly distributed the steroids which, according to The Huffington Post, has now been temporarily shut down until further notice. The drugs sold to patients at this specialist pharmacy have been directly linked to cases of fungal meningitis, an infection where fungal membranes cover the brain and spinal cord, which can be fatal. The CDC approximates nearly 14,000 patients may have received injections with medication from the three implicated lots of the steroid, 97 percent of which have been contacted since the discovery of the contamination. The lots, or batches, of the steroid were recalled on Sept. 25 after the first case of meningitis was reported in Idaho, according to the official CDC website. Shortly after, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a statement on Oct. 4 advising medical professionals that all products produced by NECC should be “retained, secured and withheld from use.” On Oct. 6, NECC announced a voluntary recall of all products produced and distributed from its Framingham, Mass. facility, according to the official FDA website. The FDA, CDC and the Massachusetts Board of Pharmacy are performing a formal investigation of the New England Compounding Center on the cause of the meningitis outbreak. The investigation is still ongoing but according to The Baltimore Sun, the Massachusetts report
Huffington Post, the FDA is in fact required to regulate the ingredients and their suppliers but not the compounders which are subject to patchwork of state oversight. So the FDA is responsible for the safety of the ingredients that make up the drug, but not for the product after it is sent off to be mixed and packaged at these compounding companies such as NECC. Hopefully after this fateful event, this policy will change. With a company having mold and bacteria in the very area where drugs that tambay88/Photobucket.com will be injected Fungus and mold discovered in NECC were irresponsibly ignored and unreported. into civilians’ bodies are being have both confirmed the presence of a packaged, it was just a matter of time fungus known as Exserohilum rostratum before deadly contamination occurred. in unopened vials of preservative-free According to The Baltimore Sun, methylprednisolone acetate from two out of NECC officials have written an article three of the implicated lots from the NECC. stating, “All compounding pharmacies The FDA released a statement on Oct. must take responsibility for the quality of 26, saying the Massachusetts pharmacy what they produce.” Clearly this vow of may have violated federal health law, as responsibility has not fared well for the mold and bacteria were found in areas victims of the products from this particular where drugs were mixed, according to The compounding company whom are now Baltimore Sun. This brings up questions either suffering or dead from meningitis. such as how did this happen? Who was On Oct. 3, NECC is said to have ceased all supposed to be in control of regulating the operations and surrendered their license to sterility of the company? And why was the Massachusetts Board of Registration this not caught sooner, before 25 people in pharmacy, according to the FDA. lost their lives? This seems to be a clear From the investigation of this particular disregard of responsibility on someone’s matter sprouts another cause for concern part. It is yet to be determined who will to be looked into as well. During the be held responsible other than the NECC. ongoing investigations, the FDA claims It seems to me that the FDA would be in a statement on their website that they in charge of regulating the sterility and have found “two patients that may have safety of such drugs distributed to the infections associated with other possibly public to prevent something of this exact contaminated NECC products.” It’s nature from happening. According to The looking like this outbreak of meningitis says, “The facility released drugs before determining whether they were sterile, issued drugs without a prescription and, in general, did not follow proper sterilization guidelines.” The CDC and the FDA
is not the only case of contamination that has negatively affected recipients. The worst part of the situation may be that federal health officials say NECC was well aware that they had extensive contamination by mold in bacteria, but “failed to take corrective action,” including in the “clean rooms,” where sterile drugs are actually made, according to The Seattle Times. The FDA will not answer questions regarding the sterile condition of NECC in previous years. This compounding company sent a tainted medicine out to 23 states where approximately 14,000 unknowing innocents thought they were receiving a steroid to aid in pain, when in reality they were receiving a potentially fatal dose of fungal meningitis. This company has one confirmed instance of contaminated products, with an ongoing investigation of separate products being used by citizens. There is no knowing how long this has been going on or how many other contaminated products could be found to be linked to NECC. It is proven that this company had knowledge of the extensively unsanitary conditions these products were being prepared and packaged in and did not make any attempt to improve it. According to The Seattle Times, Sarah Sellers, a former FDA official said, “The entire pharmacy was an incubator for bacteria and fungus… The pharmacy knew about the contamination and did nothing.” This company is callous and this is unacceptable in a major producer of drugs, especially when there is proof their reckless behavior has resulted in 25 deaths. The New England Compounding Center needs to be shut down permanently, and sanitary mandates need to be instituted. The FDA, or a new organization, should be in charge of checking frequently to ensure these mandates are followed. Over 338 victims whose lives may never be the same and 25 deaths is unacceptable when it could have easily been prevented. Avery Twible can be reached at avery.twible@spartans.ut.edu
Americans Embarrass Themselves by Commenting on ‘First Lady’ Debate By Jake Koniszewski
Live” Youtube page, I wonder why the people in the video lied about something On Oct. 17, 2012, the crew from they did not know. “Jimmy Kimmel Live” asked people Perhaps the people who were on Hollywood Boulevard who won the interviewed were afraid to look like they First Lady debate between Michelle did not know anything. I am assuming Obama and Ann Romney. Both sides the people who were filmed had agreed received support, with one man saying to be before they were asked any Obama “was more aggressive,” while questions. Once they were on camera and they were asked about the debate, a subject of which they had no knowledge, they panicked. They thought that if they said, “I don’t know” or something along those lines, they would look stupid and uninformed. As a result, they lied. However, the people interviewed by Kimmel’s crew still looked dumb, they JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE/YouTube.com because Kimmel asked people on the street who they thought won the ‘First Lady Debate.’ pretended to know about something one woman thought Romney was “a very that did not actually happen. They classy and wonderful lady.” However, should have been honest and admitted there was no First Lady debate. It was to not knowing about the debate. Even a hoax set up by Jimmy Kimmel’s crew if the debate HAD occurred and they for a bit of humor. Although I got a good knew nothing about it, a television show laugh out of the video, which has over would not show someone admitting, 320,000 views on the “Jimmy Kimmel “Sorry, I didn’t watch it.” That would Opinion Writer
be boring. I think what bothers me the most about this is that the people in the video saw telling the truth as a sort of weakness. Being truthful is never a weakness. Since Election Day is only a few days away, the American people are also under pressure to know something about politics. It is kind of hard not to know something about President Obama or Mitt Romney, especially with ads on TV and online and with news channels discussing the two candidates on a daily basis. Although I encourage everyone to be politically involved, there are definitely people who simply do not care for politics. People should know about the choices their leaders are making, but if you would rather stay away from political talk, that is fine with me. However, the people in the video may have felt as if they had to know something about the debate because the nation has been talking about the election for months now. It is difficult not to know what is going on politically in America with all the commercials and debates on TV. It is another case of people trying to look informed and looking dumb in the process. The Huffington Post also made a good point by noting the people who hang around Hollywood Boulevard “are genetically predisposed to flock to the chance to be on TV like moths to a flame.”
I have no doubt that there are hundreds of thousands of people who would jump at the chance to be on TV, even if it is only for a few seconds. People like to have the opportunity to give their opinion and to show they exist. Even though the people filmed did not see the First Lady debate, it did not stop them from giving their opinion. There have been plenty of people who are willing to make a fool out of themselves for the camera for some exposure, for example: “Jersey Shore,” “Survivor,” “Big Brother,” the numerous “Real Housewives” shows... need I go on? However, most of the people on those shows are not the kind of people we should emulate. It can be entertaining to laugh at someone’s stupidity, but it is not worth your dignity, even if it is only for a few seconds on camera. Although Kimmel’s prank was funny, it shows that people are scared to look uninformed on TV and are willing to lie without checking the facts in order to appear informed. Honesty is not always easy, but nothing bad would happen by admitting the truth in this situation. If it is because they thought it was their one shot at being on TV, it is still not a good excuse. I would have more respect for someone for being honest and uninformed than being dishonest and uninformed. Jake Koniszewski can be reached at john.koniszewski@spartans.ut.edu
THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 1 2012
OPINION
13
UT Swim Team’s Homecoming Strip Increases School Spirit By STEF CROCCO Opinion Contributor
If you missed UT’s women’s volleyball game during Homecoming, then you missed some good entertainment. Sun-kissed and perfectly toned bodies of the men’s swim team stole the entire show. From the swimmers first stripping away a piece of clothing every time the volleyball team scored a point to running down the bleachers onto the court after the first match in celebration of UT’s first and only win of the night, it was an exhilarating scene. Oh, and they were only wearing itty bitty Speedos. No, it wasn’t a reenactment from “Magic Mike.” Apparently, it’s a UT tradition. “We stripped to support the volleyball team,” said sophomore Kyle Freudiger, a member of UT’s swim team. “As to when this tradition started, I am not sure, but it’s a fun thing to do, and it shows the volleyball team that other sports stand behind them as well.” This year, the men’s swim team attended the game wearing three Tshirts, a jacket, a parka, caps, goggles and four layers of pants. Between the hot and humid Florida weather and the walk over to the court, “[it] makes every pointed scored by the girls much more appreciated,” said Freudiger. “Stripping down to a Speedo doesn’t really affect us as much, as we have to do it on a daily basis. Plus, a few of us just like the excuse to run around in Speedos.” “Honestly it’s a lot of fun,” said Freudiger. “It’s exciting watching the girls play,Open andHouse the fact that other teams Minaret Ads_Layout 1 10/4/12
are there to watch the girls as well, makes us feel like more of an athletic program than just a group of teams.” Year after year, the volleyball team shows they have what it takes to be one of the best in the country and they should be supported as such, says Freudiger. I couldn’t agree more. UT’s sports teams definitely do not get enough credit, as they should, since students are disappointed that there isn’t a football team. So UT doesn’t have guys running around the field in tight pants and tackling each other. However, we have the equivalent of Calvin Klein models in Speedos and a The swim women’s volleyball team that can give their opponents concussions by slamming a ball into their face. That’s pretty intense right there. I don’t see how or why the presence of a football team on campus would interest more students. Then again, I’m no sports fanatic. I occasionally attend games. I like going and trying to release my inner cheerleader, but I’m not a fan of staying the entire time. I have nothing against sports, but I can’t sit still for a long period of time if I’m not personally doing something. I like being productive and when I’m watching a game for two or three hours, I don’t get anything done, so I lose my concentration on the game and start worrying about the work I have to do. It’s rather pathetic, but if thePM game can 2:52 Page 2 get my mind off of what
I have to do for the entire two or three hours, then the game is completely
more comfortable and connected in a way. You get that sense of belonging, that sense of school spirit and the swim team definitely gave off that essence at homecoming. One guy even danced around with pom-poms that a cheerleader gave him because she felt he would get more use out of them than she would. And she was right. When she handed them over, his face lit up as if he was opening presents on Christmas morning, and boy, did he use them. It was priceless. If I had known about Casey Budd/ The Minaret the men’s swim team and team stripping would increase attendance at any game. their strip tease routine two years ago when I was worth it to me. Maybe if the swim a freshman, I probably would have team or other sports teams gave more attended Homecoming more. It just so of a show, with or without clothes, at happened that this year I, at first, went games, my attention span might last a to the game to join friends because little longer. I had nothing better to do and didn’t I also like going to games where want to do homework, but once I got I am surrounded by people who yell there, I didn’t want to leave, which was when the ball is totally in bounds, but a first. Here were these semi-naked men the referee says it’s out, or the people cheering on the UT women’s volleyball who stomp on the metal bleachers and team, and they had no shame, for which sing along with the band. I am one of I don’t blame them. If I had their bodies, those people, but it’s not the same if I would flaunt it all the time. However, you’re the only one. it wasn’t their attractive physiques and People stare at me as if I’m crazy little clothing that kept me at the game because I go nuts, but really I’m just (though it was an added bonus), it was competitive and I like to enjoy myself. the fact that they were like balls of fire, After all, sports games are supposed never burning out throughout the entire to be fun! Even so, if there were other game, even though UT lost. people around me being just as loud Stefanie Crocco can be reached and obnoxious as I was, I would feel at stefanie.crocco@spartans.ut.edu
14 NOVEMBER 1 2012 | THE MINARET
OPINION
Spiritual vs Religious: What’s the Difference?
By VANESSA RIGHEIMER
Spirituality can be seen as more relaxed, with no set rules to follow The pews in American churches are like every other religious institution. starting to become emptier each year. Margaret Burkhardt, author of According to a poll by The Global “Spirituality in Nursing and HealthIndex of Religiosity and Atheism, Related Literature: A Concept Analysis” religiosity in the United States has defined spirituality as “that which gives dropped from 73 percent in 2005 to meaning to one’s life and draws one 60 percent in 2012. A main reason for to transcend oneself. Spirituality is a this, noted in the survey, is that the broader concept than religion, although that is one expression of spirituality. Other expressions include prayer, meditation, interactions with others or nature and relationship with God or a higher power.” Spirituality can be secular or non-secular as it focuses on finding the meaning of life. Because of the liberal openness of spirituality, it can often be seen as a cop out, a way to dodge out of being persecuted for the certain beliefs that are associated with a specific religion. We live in a society where certain stigmas are placed on different religions and in a way, our moral character is labeled. For example, Mormons are often stereotyped as all having many wives, and Christians are branded as believing homosexuals and non-Christians are destined to go to hell. Likewise, Catholics are judged by the various cases of priests Leah Beilhart/ The Minaret molesting children and Muslims Sykes Chapel is available for students’ spiritual and religious uses. are seen as oppressive. Somehow we begin to stereotype different wealthier a person is, the less likely religions and only focus on the parts they are to be religious. In fact, it was we don’t agree with instead of looking the lower income bracket that had a at all the other aspects that make up higher religious percentage. However, that religion. People’s religious views the survey cannot necessarily claim that have started wars for years so it is the other 40 percent of Americans are not a surprise that a person may want atheist. As indicated by a CNN article, to avoid such conflict by just saying many Americans are now stating that they’re spiritual instead of religious. they are spiritual instead of religious. Students at UT agree that religious But what exactly is spirituality and commitment has changed over the how is it different from religion? years. Kelly Fitzgerald, sophomore Opinion Writer
and president of the Better Together Interfaith group on campus, believes that more people claim spirituality because of the cultural shift in the 60s. “There were new ways of thinking being explored, people were becoming more educated on other ideas.” KC Phillips, a freshman writing major, believes that changes in the classroom have affected people’s outlook on religion saying, “Critical thinking is encouraged more in classrooms when it comes to learning about religions all over the world. It isn’t just one religion (Christianity) that is being taught.” Today, we have easy access to information throughout the world and thus we have more knowledge of other ideas and beliefs that don’t necessarily fit one religion. Claiming spirituality can be seen as an easy way out when you figure in a person’s lack of commitment. Different religions call for sacrifice and one must reflect on whether they aren’t following a specific rule because they simply do not believe in it, or rather they just are too consumed with themselves to put their god or gods before them. Gretchen Rodriquez, senior finance major and president of the Catholic Student Organization on campus, explained, “One of the main reasons is the fear of commitment. People express that practicing a religion takes up too much of their time. Mostly, it’s a matter of being incapable of understanding and practicing the central aspects of a belief system.” In regards to Christianity, the central tenets are forgiveness, self-sacrifice and the need for on-going conversion. Reverend Alan Weber, Director of the Catholic Student Union at the University of South Florida stated, “These are practices only possible for people who are mature, grounded and comfortable with the normal contradictions of life in a finite universe.” Religion forces people to make
decisions on what they believe in which can oftentimes be extremely difficult. This can be both good and bad. It encourages a person to stand up for their certain beliefs when not everyone agrees with it. By having to choose one side, you are not on the fence trying to please others. Your faith is between you and your god, gods or cosmic powers. The approval of others should not affect it. Certain rules and beliefs can give a person guidance throughout their life. On the other hand, if your interpretation of the Bible, Quran or Torah clashes with your religious institution, it may cause you to be excommunicated or feel cut off from the group. As a practicing Catholic, I start to wonder what category I would fall under. I’ve had my baptism, communion and confirmation. I attend mass almost every Sunday, celebrate Christmas and Easter and give up something special every year for Lent. I truly believe I have a relationship with god and pray almost every day. On the outside, it would seem that I am a religious person, but there are beliefs instilled in the Catholic Church in which I don’t necessarily agree with. I believe that gay people should have the right to get married and that abortion should be allowed in the cases of rape, especially when the life of a young mother is at risk. In a way, I am bending the rules of a religious institution that has had the same rules and values for hundreds of years. Does this mean I’m spiritual or maybe a little of both? Is there somewhere I could check “Spiriligous” when applying for scholarships or answering surveys? In the end, your faith or belief system is your business. We do not all believe in the same exact things and because of this we must find respect for each other in regards to our religious or spiritual beliefs. Vanessa Righeimer can be reached at vanessa.righeimer@spartans. ut.edu
Donald Trump Offers Obama a $5 Million Deal
By ELAINA ZINTL Opinion Writer
Donald Trump, business celebrity and host of reality television show “The Apprentice,” created a buzz on social media outlets that he had a bombshell announcement that would affect the 2012 presidential election. The “big news” came on Wednesday Oct. 24 in the form of a YouTube video where Trump stated, “I have a deal for the president, a deal that I don’t believe he can refuse, and I hope he doesn’t. If Barack Obama opens up and gives his college records and applications and if he gives his passport applications and records, I will give to a charity of his choice … a check immediately for $5 million.” Trump also gave the president a deadline: 5 p.m. Oct. 31, according to a CNN article. I feel that Trump is being ridiculous. He is like a child vying for attention. This “deal” for the president is really bad form on Trump’s part. Trump has long been intent on proving that the president was born in Kenya, not in Hawaii, despite the release of Obama’s birth certificate last year. I feel that it is time for him to give up. Obama is clearly a citizen of the United States because it is a requirement for the presidency that would have been certified back in 2008. At this point in time all Trump is doing is making himself look bad. As for President Obama, I would be severely disappointed if he did release his college records. The president released his long-form birth certificate from Hawaii last year in order to quell speculations that he was not a U.S. citizen
and prove that he is constitutionally eligible to serve as president. He also previously released his certification of live birth, the short-form birth certificate, during the 2008 campaign. Both documents detail that he was born in a Hawaii hospital on Aug. 4, 1961. I understand Obama’s choice to release this documentation and I respect his intent to clear the speculations, but if the president were to concede to Trump there would be nothing to keep other celebrities from making similar demands. The president of the U.S. should not appease or need to appease celebrities or powerful businessmen. As for Trump, this past May he pushed the birth issue as he questioned the validity of Obama’s long-form birth certificate which was released by the president in 2011. It was at that time that Trump first brought up the matter of Obama’s college transcripts and maintained, in an interview with CNN, that “a lot of people do not think” the live-birth certificate was genuine, even a year after the document was released. However, Trump refused to offer names of experts that agreed with him. In a statement released in October, Trump claimed responsibility for the release of the president’s certificate, stating, “I am very honored to have gotten him to release his long form birth certificate, or whatever it may be.” He also declared, “President Obama is the least transparent president in the history of this country.” It seems that Trump is all about being flashy and drawing attention. However, in an interview on CNN’s “Piers Morgan Tonight,”
Trump argued that his offer was not a publicity ins on the soccer field. He wasn’t very good stunt and proceeded to challenge the president and resented it. When we finally moved to further, asking, “If there’s nothing wrong with America, I thought it would be over.” This his applications – if everything’s fine, why acknowledgement and dismissal of Trump was wouldn’t he do it to pick up $5 million for a well played by the president. charity?” Trump stated that he would consider However, every day Trump is on Twitter it outrageous if the president refused the offer. reminding his followers that he’s still waiting I, on the other hand, believe that it would be for President Obama to take him up on the $5 outrageous if Obama did indulge Trump and million donation in exchange for his records. It accept his deal. Yes, $5 million for a charity is long past time to give up on the deal, and at would be fabulous, but our president should not this point the only thing I am waiting to see is be forced to respond to the whims of people like Trump. It is going to look bad either way, but for Trump, even donating $50 million to charity will not help his image after Oct. 31 passes. As it is, Obama is doing well in his response to Trump’s vies for attention. The president was on “The Tonight Show” on Wednesday Gage Skidmore/Flickr.com Oct. 24, the same Trump will donate $5 million to charity if Obama reveals personal documents. day of Trump’s announcement. The host Jay Leno questioned if Trump will make another announcement if Obama on the controversy between him and the president does not meet the deadline next Trump, to which the president replied, “This Wednesday. all dates back to when we were growing Elaina Zintl can be reached at elaina. up together in Kenya. We had constant run- zintl@spartans.ut.edu
THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 1 2012
OPINION
15
Scotland Tries to Separate from the United Kingdom By SARAH GARRITY Opinion Writer
Scotland Prime Minister Alex Salmond and British Prime Minister David Cameron signed an agreement on Oct. 15 that will allow Scottish Parliament to hold a referendum in 2014 to decide if Scotland will leave the United Kingdom and become an independent country. According to the Scotland Referendum website, Scottish ministers want to give the country more economic growth, have the same range of powers as a normal sovereign nation and have an independent voice in Europe and the rest of the world. The referendum would allow Scotland to end its 300-year union and give the country freedom in economic decisions and create independent policies on foreign and defense affairs. Scotland has its own parliament, but major factors including economy and foreign policies are controlled by the House of Parliament in Westminster, England. Since the Scottish National Party was elected to control parliament last year, the referendum could be put into effect. Cameron told BBC, “I’ve made that referendum possible and made sure that it is decisive, it is legal and it is fair.” Salmond, who agreed this is the right direction for Scotland, told The Guardian, “What we strive for as the government of a devolved Scotland, we can achieve as the government of an independent Scotland.” Not all responses to the referendum, however, have been positive. Other
political leaders see Scotland’s departure from the United Kingdom unfavorable. First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones is opposed to Scotland’s independence, stating that the United Kingdom would be a “very different thing” and the relationship between Wales and Scotland “would require a much more radical reconsideration,” as reported by BBC. Scottish citizens are currently leaning towards no independence. According to the latest poll from Herald Scotland, 29 percent of voters would vote for independence, while 55 percent would vote to keep Scotland in the U.K., and 14 percent are undecided. From the same report, other European surveyors are showing similar results, with 44-55 percent opposing Scotland’s independence. Scotland does not need independence right now. There is no pressing need for Scotland at this time to break off from the United Kingdom. Poll after poll, independence has not been the favorable option yet. There are no financial or social issues that have been reported that would require Scotland’s departure from the United Kingdom. While Cameron signed off on the referendum, he admitted, “I want to be the prime minister who keeps the United Kingdom together,” according to The New York Times. The Scottish government believes that its economy will be able to grow without being interconnected into the United Kingdom’s. However, more damage could be done than expected. Scotland is a small country and could face huge shocks in their economy.
According to The Economist, the Scottish government believes that oil found in the North Sea will create blooming economic growth. However, from the same report, Scotland will in the short term only gain enough money
the amount of revenue from foreign investment as it would expect since it would have to compete with England. According to Herald Scotland, the Scottish government has not taken any legal advice from the European Union. From the same report, the government stated it would wish to continue to be a member of the EU, but it has not cited opinions from legal authorities like it has done in previous legal actions. The government should be taking advice from the European Union, especially since the Republic of Ireland, who claimed independence from England since 1922, is a member of the union, and is succeeding in its independence. While Irish banks had to be bailed Graphic By Donny Murray; SOLSTICE CETL/ Flickr.com out in 2010, according to Scotland wants economic growth and an independent voice. the Irish Examiner, Ireland is making a comeback and will in taxes as it would lose in subsidies, be “close to being a success story that which would create no profit for the the EU needs it to be,” said European government. Scotland would be more Affairs Minister Lucinda Creighton. The Scottish government’s only selling vulnerable to an unstable economy. The Royal Bank of Scotland and HBOS, the point for claiming independence is the two largest banks in Scotland, both had to economy, but worldwide the economy has get bailouts by the British government in seen better days. As I have stated in a previous October 2008. Banks in Scotland cannot article, the European Union is currently in a go through another bailout option. If huge financial crisis. While Scotland has the such a situation would occur, the country intention of following in the footsteps of its could go into default. If Scotland were British Isle neighbor, the Republic of Ireland, an independent country, there would be it is clear that Scotland should not try leave no support from other countries in the the U.K. if it doesn’t have sound reasons. United Kingdom to prevent default from Sarah Garrity can be reached at happening. Scotland also would not get sarah.garrity@spartans.ut.edu
16 NOVEMBER 1 2012 | THE MINARET
OPINION
US Ranked 22nd in World for Gender Equality By LAUREN RICHEY Opinion Writer
An updated gender report came out on Oct. 23 with a few compromising statistics about the United States’ global reputation. Our country placed 22nd on a list rating the role of gender inequality contained in the The Global Gender Gap Report of 2012. The report was first introduced in 2006, which measured the gap between men and women in social, political, and economic standings. These recent findings show the U.S. significantly behind compared to our rating the previous year. We have dropped from 17th place, even rating behind Cuba (19th) and South Africa (16th). What has caused this displacement? It’s hard to tell how big of a fuss this new information is going to cause around the nation, but the improvement of our own standing in gender equality is what the public should be focusing on, not the fact that we are “losing” to other countries. The logistics of the Global Gender Gap Report began with 14 indicators broken down into four key areas, according to Business Insider. Economic participation and opportunity is the first factor dealt with and possibly the most sensitive topic. It takes into account female labor force participation rates, the ratio of female-to-male earned income, the ratio of women-to-men
among technical and professional workers and the ratio of womento-men among legislators, senior officials and managers. The second factor is educational attainment, or the gap of men and women’s opportunity to access education in primary, secondary and tertiary-level education, as well as the female literacy rate compared to the male literacy rate. The third factor is health and survival. It produces the sex ratio at birth, and the difference between women’s and men’s life expectancy. According to the Business Insider article, the sex ratio at birth was meant to target countries with a strong son preference such as China and India. The final factor is one of political empowerment, or the gap between men and women at the highest level of political decisionmaking, minster-level positions and parliamentary positions. It even includes the ratio of women-tomen in terms of years in executive office. These factors are specific, in much detail, and are graphed neatly in the pages of the report. But are there important factors missing? From the GGG report’s index, women apparently make up one half of the world’s human capital. This means that the negative assumptions a report such as this can derive are incredibly misleading. Factors are indeed improving for women, compared to last year’s
data. In the 2011 report, enrollment According to Reliefweb, 82 out in tertiary education had the female of 132 countries improved their value of 101 from a population economic equality between 2011 sample. This year it has reached 111 and 2012. Of the top four global compared to the men’s value of 79. Does this economies, the U.S., Japan and mean that men in the US.. are actually falling behind? More women are going to college compared to past years, and according to CNSNews, more women graduate from college too. If this trend keeps up, areas where women are behind men, such as holding advanced CEO Fibonacci Blue/Flickr.com jobs, won’t be the US is behind both Cuba and South Africa in gender equality ranking. case for much longer. Boys are even more likely Germany improved their economic to drop out of school than girls, as gender gap in 2012, while China presented in an Abu Dhabi study declines slightly. This is actually a found in August. This is just another huge global improvement compared to example of the assumptions and the past years. So then why is our drop speculations that can be drawn from in ratings so disheartening? It could this new specified information. just be the old-fashioned American The GGG report stated, “Our sense of competition. Regardless of aim is to focus on whether the gap the circumstances, these new statistics between women and men in the chosen should get people thinking about the variables has declined, rather than direction our country is headed and whether women are “winning” the how we can improve. ‘battle of the sexes.’” Well the results Lauren Richey can be reached at are definitely up for speculation. lauren.richey@spartans.ut.edu
Banana Boat’s Dangerous Spray Sunscreen Causes Users to Set Fire By JESSICA FORTE
The problem is said to be caused by the spray valve, which causes people We use sunscreen to protect our- to over-apply the product. Since there selves from getting burned. For some is more fluid on the skin than should Banana Boat sunscreen users, the prod- be normally applied, it takes a lonuct designed to protect has caused them ger time to dry and therefore increases serious harm. A total of five reports the flammability risk. “If a consumhave been made in the U.S. and Canada er comes into contact with a flame or spark prior to complete drying of the product on the skin,” says the company, “there is a potential for the product to ignite.” According to WebMD, Energizer asks people who have bought the recalled products not to use them. “This is not like a drug recall,” a company spokesman says. “They Robet S. Donovan/Flickr.com don’t need to Banana Boat’s spray sunscreen is still flammable minutes after application. send the bottles back.” According to nypost.com, the compaof people catching on fire after applyny spokesman claimed that the reing the spray-on UltraMist sunscreen. call does not involve any Banana As a result, Energizer Holdings, the makers of Banana Boat, announced Boat sunscreen lotions. These don’t that they would be recalling 23 vari- have alcohol and other ingredients eties of UltraMist due to the risk of that are used in the spray-on prodit igniting when exposed to an open ucts which are used so they can flow flame. USA Today reported that the more freely through the spray nozzle. All continuous spray sunscreens recall includes aerosol products like warn consumers that the products UltraMist Sport, UltraMist Ultra Deshould not be used near an open flame, fense and UltraMist Kids. While rewhich includes smoking. Brett Sigportedly only five people have exworth became a victim of the flamperienced burns from the spray, mable substance while cooking at his over 20 million units have been sold barbecue in Stowe, Mass. “I sprayed since the product launched in 2010. Opinion Writer
on the spray-on sunscreen, and then rubbed it on for a few seconds. I walked over to my grill…and all of a sudden [the flames] just went up my arm,” he told CBS Boston. He received second degree burns on his chest, ear and back that resemble the streaks of where the sunscreen was sprayed on. While there is a warning about the product igniting on the bottle, Sigworth brought up a valid point. “There is no warning that says this product is flammable when applied to your skin or for a period of time when applied to skin,” Sigworth said. “I think if people were told this is flammable for two minutes on your skin afterward, people wouldn’t use it.” While Sigworth does have a lawyer, he surprisingly isn’t planning on suing the company. Personally, if I had been set on fire from that sunscreen, I would be suing the company for nearly everything they have. Mary Shoulders is another burn victim from Banana Boat sunscreen. She experienced third degree burns on her arm, ranging from her armpit to her wrist, whilst welding. “My whole arm went on fire,” Shoulders said. According to wavy.com, Shoulders said she waited about five minutes after applying the sunscreen before she began welding and thought that since it was dry, it was safe. Apparently, The Burn Prevention Network could not recommend a safe amount of time to wait, but said when flammable ingredients are aerosolized, they become more combustible. The American Burn Association called for “prominent warnings...relating to time and proximi-
ty” and advises users to consider lotion-based sunscreen. Like Sigworth, Shoulders also has no plans to sue the company, but just wants people to be aware of the product’s dangers. This product shouldn’t have been allowed to even hit the shelves. For something this dangerous, there should have been adequate warnings on the bottle instructing people not to be around open flames at all. Even so, people may come into contact with open flames by accident, such as walking past a campfire or someone smoking on the street. I am surprised that the Burn Prevention Association couldn’t come up with any time to wait until going around an open flame. I guess if something is flammable, it’s flammable. The sunscreen users could have paid more attention as well. If I had seen that the product could ignite around open flames, I would have been cautious and not used it at all. However, there is no way to go back in time and take away the serious injuries that have affected five people. It is a relief that the product is being recalled to prevent such cases from happening to anyone else. Jessica Forte can be reached at jessica.forte@spartans.ut.edu
THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 1 2012
Sports
17
West Florida Loss Fuels Volleyball By PAIGE SHALLCROSS Sports Writer
With the possibility of hosting Regionals, the Spartan women’s volleyball team is bouncing back from their loss to West Florida. The Spartan team took on West Florida on Oct. 19 for the South Region Crossover hosted here at Tampa. During this match, the Spartans went 1-3 with the end result being a loss. Senior middle blocker Danielle Selkridge and freshman libero Jen Scholz both believe the match against West Florida was not one of their strongest games offensively or defensively. “I just think that some of us offensively
were kind of off,” stated Selkridge. “Usually when all of us are on offensively and defensively we tend to win.” “I agree with Danielle, defensively I guess our passes weren’t as on because when our passes are on we can run the middle for offensive plays, but offensively we were hitting balls out and hitting balls right to people so that doesn’t help us,” added Scholz. “It only makes it easier on the other team because they aren’t out of system so they can run whatever they want, pretty much, which makes us stuck on the defensive and you can’t defend every single ball, it’s really hard.” To help bounce back from this loss, the volleyball team is going back to basics
Tampa has swept four straight matches and is in control of the SSC.
Casey Budd/ The Minaret
and getting drilled to make sure they can fully understand what they can improve. “We are just getting drilled,” said Scholz. “The defenders are getting pulled aside during practice and are getting told how we have to step up and get the balls that people don’t think you can get. No one else is going to get those balls so you have to pick up the defense and go for everything and not just the balls that come right to you.” “From the offensive side we just keep on focusing on little details,” added Selkridge. “Offensively and defensively we are just working on more communication and more of those details so as a team we can just get back to the gym and focus and work harder.” Even though the loss was a minor setback for the team, it was a wake up call for them to realize that even though they are a very strong team, there is still the possibility that they can lose and they have to take that into consideration before and during each match. “I think it shook us in the fact that we can lose and that if we don’t come out and compete every night then that can happen; we can lose,” said Selkridge. “So I think it just refocuses us and helps us be ready and since we can lose we need to step it up in every game we play. “ Coach Catanach agrees with Selkridge that the loss against West Florida was a little bit of a wake up call for the team but it also helps them prepare for the upcoming games in a different way. “I think we needed a little punch, something to change,” said Catanach. “Since that point we have played very well in practice and matches. I’m not saying our problems are solved, we haven’t corrected everything but I’m saying we are a better team for that match.” When asked about his take on how the team is coming back from this loss, Catanach is happy that the team is focusing hard to improve with the rest of the season up ahead.
“They are much more receptive to things we need to correct and change and that’s a good sign,” said Catanach. “Anytime you beat people the first time through, the team that wins makes less adjustments than the team that loses so now we have a chance to make adjustments and look at what we did wrong and make those corrections.” Knowing that the rest of the matches left are in conference, the team is preparing to meet each Jen Scholz team a second time and hopefully coming out on top again this time through. “It’s our second time through with each team. We just started that with Florida Tech,” said Catanach. “During the second time through we have to be proactive and look at the things they got better at and prepare for them to try to defend us differently than the first time through. We break down the videos and look at their differences in rotations and tendencies and adjust ourselves to do the things we do that will be different than the last time we played them.” “Yeah, we have been watching videos on them a lot,” added Scholz. “Each game is specific to each opponent, we’re not just going out there just to play volleyball, we are going to compete and do what we can to get them out of sync and win.” The women’s volleyball team recently won their past four games after West Florida and are looking to continue this winning streak as they play more and more conference matches. Their next match is Nov. 2 again Saint Leo and their next home game is Nov. 9 against Nova Southeastern. Paige Shallcross can be reached at paige.shallcross@spartans.ut.edu.
Fresh Off Three Wins, Soccer Starts Tourney By J.P. HANEY Sports Writer
Just like that the 2012 regular season has come to an end for the University of Tampa men’s soccer team. Over the course of the regular season, the team developed and became a contender within the Sunshine State Conference. A f t e r finishing last season with a disappointing record, the Spartans were determined to rise to the top of the SSC once again and show David Niepal that UT was once again a force to be reckoned with. “Even with last year’s record, we brought back 90 percent of the same guys,” Coach Adrian Bush stated. “People said they couldn’t win. I stood by our guys, they stuck together and worked hard, and have been rewarded for their effort.”
Last Thursday’s 5-0 win over conference foe St. Leo was the culmination of all the hard work the players have put in during this season and a tribute to the five Seniors who were playing in their last home game. Earlier in the season, St. Leo beat UT 3-0 and the Spartans made sure to avenge that shutout loss this time around. “It was amazing to beat St. Leo the way we did after losing earlier,” junior goalkeeper David Niepel said. “The win sent off our seniors in the right way.” Not only was the St. Leo victory a great way to end the regular season for the Spartans, but it also allows the team to ride the momentum of the huge win into the postseason. An old adage in sports is when it comes to postseason play, it is not always the best team that wins it all but it is usually the team that is playing best at the moment. The postseason will be extremely difficult for the Spartans due to the difficulty of the Sunshine State Conference. “The SSC is the best conference in the country and it’s not even close,” Coach Bush stated on the level of the competition heading into the conference
tournament. “There is so much at stake with every game.” Out of the nine teams in the SSC, there are four teams (including UT) that have won 10 or more games during the regular season. Even the teams who have not won 10 or more games will be tough competition for the Spartans in the conference tournament. Teams such as St. Leo and Barry both have fewer victories than the Spartans, but both have recorded victories over the team this season. “We have to be ready for every team,” Niepel said. “Every team has different strengths and we have to overcome those to win.” As they have done all season, the men’s soccer team will have to rely on its defense and the leadership from the team’s upperclassmen. Leadership from more experienced upperclassmen can be vital towards a team remaining focused and playing to its true potential. “Practice is really competitive and is important to stay focuses,” Niepel said on how the team is preparing for the postseason. “It is win or die now and
it’s important to get that in the players’ heads.” If the Spartans can make it through the SSC tournament, they will progress to the NCAA Division II tournament, which in some ways may be a welcomed change for the Spartans. After playing top-notch competition during conference play, the Spartans will be ready to play any team from any conference. Furthermore, the goal for every team is to win at the national level and it is no different for the Spartans. However, all of this is irrelevant if the UT falters in the conference tournament. Tampa has been working all season to get to this point. It is up to them to determine their fate. The team is capable of making a deep postseason run, but it’s just a matter of performing at the high level they have displayed throughout the regular season. The SSC tournament begins Nov. 2, where the Spartans will play the winner of the Florida Tech/Rollins quarterfinal matchup. J.P. Haney can be reached at johnpatrick.haney@spartans.ut.edu.
18 NOVEMBER 1 2012 | THE MINARET
SPORTS
Pro Sports
Lakers Steal Heat’s Thunder in NBA Preview By CONNOR ANTHONY Sports Writer
In July, the basketball world had to concede defeat to King James and the villains also known as the “big three�. With the NBA season just under way, King James and the Heat are looking to defend their title and repeat. But the Brooklyn Nets and their new look team might have a few things to say about that. In addition to moving cities and changing jerseys, they made noise by resigning Deron Williams and trading for veteran shooting guard Joe Johnson, formerly of the Hawks. With Brook Lopez at full strength, the Nets now have a big three of their own. The Hawks did trade their best player, but cleared up a lot of salary cap space and are a threat to make the playoffs, as they are
JoeGlo1/ Flickr.com
Kevin Durant (left) and Russell Westbrook took the Thunder to the Finals last season.
every year. The rest of the league includes a Chicago club who could get Derrick Rose back by the second half of the year, an older Boston Celtics team who lost Ray Allen to the Heat, but who had a very good draft by stealing Jared Sullinger and Fab Melo. Philadelphia made a great playoff run last year before falling in the second round to the Celtics. They weren’t expected to be contenders at all which made it impressive, but more impressive is them getting Andrew Bynum in the trade for Dwight Howard, giving them arguably the second best center in the league. Look for the Milwaukee Bucks to take the Magic’s spot in the playoffs. Brandon Jennings and Monta Ellis give the Bucks one of the best guard duos in the league. Linsanity if officially extinct in New York and now that the hype has died down, Carmelo Anthony will have to anchor this often-disappointing team to yet another disappointing season. There were reports that Melo forced Lin out of New York, as Melo was trying to make an alpha dog reference. If this is true, there will be much scrutiny or praise placed on him depending on how well the team does. Enough about the east, onto the west. San Antonio finished the 2011-12 season tied with the Bulls for the best record, but after no offseason moves and their already old team a year older, they are a safe bet for the playoffs but don’t expect them to make much noise. With their core of Durant, Ibaka, Westbrook and the newly acquired Kevin
Keith Allison/ Flickr.com
The Lakers’ Kobe Bryant won’t have the same pressure to score this season, with the offseason acquisitions of Steve Nash, Dwight Howard, and Antawn Jamison.
Martin, there is no reason to expect anything less of a season equal or greater to last year for Oklahoma City. We will soon see if the Thunder will miss their bearded sixth man, James Harden. Most people would pick the Thunder to win the west because most people dislike the Lakers. The Lakers stacked their team and Metta World Peace thinks they can go 73-9. It’s a little early to be talking but they should easily be the favorites to win the west. The Timberwolves went and signed Brandon Roy out of retirement and Andrei Kirilenko to low-risk, high-reward contracts. If Ricky Rubio and Kevin Love
can stay healthy this team could surprise. It should get interesting with Houston and Minnesota not making the playoffs last year but bolstering their teams this year in an effort to fight for that eighth seed. First overall pick Anthony Davis is going to be making headlines every game both for his raw talent, being first overall, and the unibrow that he has trademarked. This season is important for teams like the Spurs, Celtics and Mavericks who are all getting old. The clock is finally starting to tick and there isn’t much time left for them to get back to the finals. Connor Anthony can be reached at connor.anthony@spartans.ut.edu.
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THE MINARET | NOVEMBER 1 2012
19
Giants Nab Second Title In Three Years
By JORDAN LLANES Sports Writer
Another Fall Classic is wrapped up and in the books. Ladies and gentlemen, meet your 2012 World Series champs: the San Francisco Giants. For the second time in the past three years, they have taken all the marbles, sweeping the Detroit Tigers in four games. This postseason has been a historic one filled with tons of stories, from the first wild card games played (captured by the Baltimore Orioles and St. Louis Cardinals), to the benching of A-Rod, but the best tale is the one of the Giants, who used almost the exact same formula, plus or minus a few pieces, to capture this year’s title. This season’s edition of the Fall Classic got started with a literal BANG. The Tigers sent baseball’s best pitcher, last season’s A.L. MVP and Cy Young winner Justin Verlander, to the mound in Game 1. Verlander was supposed to shut down the Giant lineup and deliver the series’ first game on a platter to the fans of Detroit. Well, that didn’t happen. Instead, Giants third baseman Pablo Sandoval picked up right where he left off against Verlander from this season’s All Star Game, sending a solo shot into the seats of AT&T Park. But Sandoval and the rest of the Giant offense wasn’t done. They chased Verlander off the mound after just four innings to the tune of five
earned runs. Sandoval, AKA Kung Fu Panda, led the charge, becoming just the fourth player ever to homer three times in a World Series game, following Babe Ruth, Reggie Jackson and Albert Pujols. The Giants won 8-3 behind the bat of Sandoval and the arms of a resurgent Barry Zito, who pitched 5.2 scoreless innings, and embattled ace Tim Lincecum, who struck out five Tigers in 2.1 innings in a dominant performance. However, Game 2 brought the game back to its roots: pitching and defense. In a classic pitcher’s duel, Detroit’s Doug Fister and San Fran’s Madison Bumgarner traded shutout inning for shutout inning. Each pitched a gem; Fister worked into the seventh inning and only allowed one run and four hits after being nailed by a line drive in the second inning. However, Bumgarner pitched better; he went seven scoreless, allowing just two hits while striking out seven Tigers. The Giants captured the low scoring affair 2-0 to take a 2-0 advantage back to Detroit. After the return to Motown, the Tigers found themselves in a must win situation in Game 3. Too bad the Giants sent Ryan Vogelsong to the mound. The well traveled right hander continued his remarkable comeback, throwing 5.2 scoreless frames while getting crucial out after crucial out. He got Triple Crown winner Miguel Cabrera to pop out with the bases loaded
to escape a jam in the fifth inning. Then Lincecum continued his dominant tour of relief, throwing another 2.1 shutout innings while showing flashes of the Timmy of old. And then came Game 4. The hometown Tigers were on the ropes. The Giants and Manager Bruce Bochy, smelling blood in the water, sent ace Matt Cain to the hill to oppose the young fireballer Max Scherzer and the mighty Tiger lineup, which had been just as silent
SD Dirk/ Flickr.com
Pablo Sandoval was named the World Series M.V.P. after a historic Game 1 performance.
as the Yankee lineup their pitching staff had so superbly shutdown in the four game ALCS sweep. Cain turned in the least dominant performance of the Giants’ starters, and was still solid, throwing seven innings of five hit, three earned run ball. Yet the Tigers and Giants were still tied up heading into extra frames. The question was who would break through first. Could it have ended in any other way than a Giants victory and subsequent sweep? Well, the answer is no. NLCS MVP Marco Scutaro, the little spark plug of a second baseman, drove in designated hitter Ryan Theriot, then San Francisco closer Sergio Romo struck out the Triple Crown winner Cabrera on a called third strike, and the rest is history. So congrats to the San Francisco Giants on their second title in three years. They saved their best baseball for last, which has been a recurring theme these past few Octobers. Sandoval captured the MVP after batting .500 for the series with a ton of clutch hits, but the it was the resurgence of Lincecum that will have the baseball world abuzz all winter. Now it’s onto trades, free agents, firings and hirings of the hot stove season, then a new season starting at the end of next February with spring training. Jordan Llanes can be reached at jordan. llanes@spartans.ut.edu.
Falcons, Texans; NFL Elite Keep Winning By JOHN HILSENROTH JR. Sports Editor
Two months ago, school started up, it was almost 100 degrees outside, and most importantly, the NFL season kicked off. There have been plenty of story lines in the first half of the season; some have been good, some not so good (sorry Packers fans). But regardless, eight of the 17 weeks have been played in the 2012 NFL season, and I have to say I’m not all that surprised with the results thus far. The Falcons have lived up to preseason hype and are the lone undefeated team playing these days, but I’m still not sure if I’m 100 percent sold on them. Not to take anything away from them, but their schedule has been cake so far, and they could have easily lost three or four times already. But nonetheless they have to be considered the best right now. Their divisional foe Saints haven’t been as fortunate, and are limping through at 2-5. The Texans, another preseason favorite, are 6-1 and are coming off a bye. The week before last, however, they destroyed the Ravens 43-13 and if not for a bad loss to the Packers, Houston would also be perfect. Two weeks from now, the Texans will take on a surprisingly effective Bears team at Soldier Field. Interestingly enough, the Bears too would be perfect if not for a loss to the cheeseheads. If Jay Cutler can manage to not screw things up, Matt Forte and a ferocious Chicago defense could be hanging around come January. Speaking of cheeseheads, the Packers should be 6-2, but are instead 5-3 because of the replacement refs. That being said, this team still lost to the Colts, and its world-class offense has been completely out of sync at times. Its showdown with the Giants Nov. 25 is the teams’ next big test. The Giants’ season seemed murky after losing to the Cowboys and trailing the Buccaneers 27-16 in the fourth quarter. But
Eli Manning led a 25-point fourth quarter and a 41-34 win over the Bucs, and now the Giants are 6-2 with a comfortable lead in the NFC East. However, the remaining Giants schedule is brutal so we will see what is to come for the defending champs. After coming into the season with high expectations, the NFC East has not lived up to the hype this year. If not for some miraculous early victories, the Eagles could be 0-7. Granted, some of their losses were close as well, but Mike Vick and Andy Reid are both on the hot seat, and if they don’t start winning, one or both will be booed out of Philly faster than A-Rod in the Bronx. Dallas came running out of the gates but has lost four of its past six games. Tony Romo has thrown 13 interceptions and losing Sean Lee for the year was catastrophic. The mighty Patriots are tied in the loss column with the Dolphins halfway through the season. If that doesn’t sum up their season, I don’t know what does. Brady has been finding a healthier Gronk much more of late, and the Patriots will surely play better the second half of the season than they did the first. Over on the west coast, San Francisco has been playing 49er ball as of late. Not Joe Montana to Jerry Rice 49er football, but rather John Harbaugh we’re-gonnarun-the-ball-and-stop-the-run, smash mouth football. At 6-2, San Fran is in control of the semi-improved NFC West and should roll through the division. Seattle is sitting at 4-4 (one win thanks to the replacement refs), but has lost four games by a combined 21 points. They have been in every game this year and may just have enough behind Marshawn Lynch and a strong run defense to stay in the wild card picture. The Chargers have disappointed thus far, and Peyton Manning has looked as sharp as he has his entire illustrious career. We will see what a very manageable remaining
schedule will mean for the Broncos. Finally, the AFC North is up for grabs after Ray Lewis is gone for the season. The banged up Steelers and the Ravens should come down to the wire, but I don’t see either going far in the playoffs.
The first half has been fun, so here’s to football being played the rest of the season the way its meant to be played: in the cold. John Hilsenroth Jr. can be reached at minaret.sports@gmail.com
TAKE YOUR SHOT
Week 9: Yesterday’s Cam or today’s RGIII? Standings
John [22-13] Shawn [22-13] Jordan [20-15] Miles [18-17] Nathan [18-17] Connor [15-20] Paige [14-21] J.P. [14-21]
@ Steelers
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John Jordan Miles Nathan Paige J.P.
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John Shawn Miles J.P.
Jordan Nathan Connor Paige
John
Shawn Jordan Miles Nathan Connor Paige J.P.
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@ Vikings J.P.
Seahawks John Shawn Jordan Miles Nathan Connor Paige
Eagles
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John Nathan
Shawn Jordan Miles Connor Paige J.P.
The Minaret Sports Staff guess the NFL winners each week
MINARET
Volleyball Rolls [17]
UT’S SOURCE SINCE 1933
SPORTS
Giants Sweep [19]
Scoring Woes End Just in Time By NATHAN KROHN Sports Writer
Try and put a roadblock in front of misfortune. It’s impossible. Adversity is the bane of every team’s existence and no matter how much you try and block, redirect or escape it, it will eventually find you. How the team responds is what defines them, what builds their character, and what eventually makes them stronger. Adversity finally hunted down the University of Tampa women’s soccer team these past few weeks as they have struggled to score goals and pull out close game victories recently. After beginning the season with an 8-2 record, perched in first with a comfortable lead in the SSC, the UT women began having difficulty scoring goals resulting in three ties in four games. The cold streak allowed for Rollins University to leapfrog UT in the standings and take sole possession of first place. “It’s a combination of misfortune and great goalkeeping on the part of the other team,” Head Coach Gerry Lucey said in a phone interview. “We’ve been getting the looks, just have to make good decisions and find teammates.” The women have in fact been getting good looks at the goal, recording 42 shots on goal in their last five games, while in contrast opponents have had just 12. While the statistics indicate the team is doing the things they need to in order to win, they would still like to see improvement. “We’re playing great defense,” Coach Lucey lauded, “but I’d like to see more character, more leadership to carry us to and through the tournament.” The lack of offensive production has created a heavy burden on the defense, and goalie in particular, to not allow any goals. “If you let in one goal, you’re not doing your job,” goalkeeper Kori Butterfield said. “Letting in one goal should make the
Leah Beilhart/The Minaret The women’s soccer team scored four goals in its last win over Saint Leo. The Spartans are now focused on the SSC tournament.
offense be more aggressive.” Butterfield, a junior transfer from Central Washington University is having a stellar year having allowed only nine goals with 33 saves thus far this season. Only a junior, Butterfield is considered by some to be a veteran on the team that has six freshmen starters. It would be easy and possibly justified to point to the youth of the team, as a possible reason for the recent struggles but Butterfield doesn’t see it in that way. “It doesn’t matter how young we are,” Butterfield expressed. “Better communication could have resulted in wins rather than ties.” After their game against Florida resulted in a second straight tie the team tried what they called a ‘silent practice’ to
Samantha Battersby/The Minaret
After placing second in the Sunshine State Conference, UT can enjoy a first round bye in the SSC tournament and will play this Friday. Tampa has won four of the last six SSC tournaments.
3
And Out
A brief rundown of Spartan sports
No. 23 Women’s Soccer [12-3-3, 5-1-2] Tampa’s cold offensive streak came to an end last Wednesday, when they beat Saint Leo 4-0 in their last regular season game. The four goals were more than the team scored in its three prior games combined. UT will travel to Winter Park to play in the SSC tournament Friday at 4:30 p.m.
help improve communication on the field. “We basically went the whole practice without talking,” forward Lauren Moore explained. “It showed us how important communication was. Everyone was talking afterwards.” Moore, a sophomore advertisement and public relations major from north Tampa, has been playing at the UT soccer fields for nearly a decade. “I’ve been coming to the campus and playing in Coach Lucey’s summer camps since I was 11,” Moore said with smile. This season has been a breakout year for the sophomore forward as she leads the team in nearly every offensive category including shots (72), goals (15) and shots on goal (33). Moore also leads the conference in goals. Despite her fantastic offensive stats, even Moore could not evade the recent offensive struggles the team faced. “We took the ties in stride,” Moore said confidently. “Half was balls not bouncing our way, other half was we weren’t ruthless enough.” With the offensive numbers Moore has put up this season, she maintains that the team doesn’t rely on her to score. “Not one player is expected to score,” Moore clarified. “I’m expected to score as a role of an attacking offensive player but the whole offense has the expectation to score.” With her breakout season, Moore has also adopted more of a team leadership
role, one that Coach Lucey has been looking for. “I try to lead the team more this season,” Moore said, “by example in the way I practice as well as vocally.” While Moore is trying to take a bigger leadership role on the team, she admits she still looks up to senior midfielder Courtney Peffley. “She’s a vocal leader,” Moore said. “She’ll tell you if you’re not doing something right.” As the women enter postseason play this weekend, they will try to move past the disappointment of finishing second in the SSC. “We would have liked to have won the regular season title,“ Coach Lucey said, “but we’ve been successful in tournament play so we are looking towards that.” Successful they have been, winning four of the last six SSC tournaments. But to continue that success and make the type of deep run the team expects to, they will need consistent play out of Moore and the offense. Coach Lucey insists that a 4-0 thumping of Saint Leo in the regular season finale righted the offensive wrongs. The team will find out if that is the case as they wait through a first round bye in the SSC tournament to play either Eckerd College or Nova Southeastern University. Tampa has a 3-0 lifetime record against those schools in SSC tournament play. Nathan Krohn can be reached at nathan. krohn@spartans.ut.edu.
No. 23 Men’s Soccer [10-4-1, 6-2]
No. 7 Volleyball [21-3, 10-0]
The Spartans finished the regular season strongly, outscoring Florida Southern and Saint Leo by a combined 10-1. After placing seventh in the SSC last year, UT came in second in the conference this season. The men will play this Friday at 11 a.m. at a location to be announced.
The volleyball team has bounced back extremely well after its loss to West Florida on Oct. 19, by sweeping four straight matches. With just six regular season matches remaining, UT is looking to continue gelling. They travel to Saint Leo and Florida Southern this weekend.