The Minaret

Florida’s Top College Paper

Vol. 75 No. 16

ut.minaret@gmail.com

www.theminaretonline.com

January 23, 2009

SUPER TAMPA

Thousands of NFL fans will descend on Tampa for Super Bowl XLIII next weekend as the Arizona Cardinals face the Pittsburgh Steelers. It will be the fourth time the city has hosted the league’s championship game, and the first since 2001.

Events will stretch across the town, with parties from Harbour Island to St. Petersburg and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a $3,000 party with supermodels or a trip to the NFL Experience, there are many opportunities for once-in-a-lifetime fun over the next week.

Inside Coverage CNN Sports will broadcast from Plant Park from Jan. 27-31.

See page 4 .............................................

The Bucs’ Cato June is bringing a slew of celebrities and athletes for a basketball tournament at the Martinez Sports Center.

See page 15 .............................................

Learn how to deck yourself out before, during and after the game.

See page 8 .............................................

Bruce Springsteen will be the headliner for the halftime show, Faith Hill will be the pre-game performer, and Jennifer Hudson will sing the National Anthem.

Preview on page 9 ................................................. ...

How to make four of the best (and lowfat!) Super Bowl snacks.

See page 9 ..................................................

The College Football All Star Challenge will feature the best and brightest of the BCS. Taping will be Jan. 24 and will be televised Jan. 31.

See page 14 ...................................................

One Student Heads to D.C. While Others Watch from Tampa

By Journalism I

Thousands of University of Tampa students gathered around television sets and computer screens Tuesday to watch the inauguration of America’s first black president, Barack H. Obama.

Ironically, they saw more of the 44th president than one U.T. student who was actually on the Mall. Although Stefanie Emrith was far from the president, she was also far from disappointed.

“Just being there was enough,” she said, her voice still brimming with excitement eight hours after seeing the speech.

“It was freezing, but nobody complained. Everybody came out: old, disabled, all different races, all different walks of life,” said Emrith, who went to the inauguration as part of a leadership conference. “The town really was buzzing. It was Obama-mania.”

She said the scenes gave her hope for Trinidad, where racial discrimination is common.

“To see a country come together with all races, I was just so glad to be there. Although I’m not American , it was amazing to witness all these people come together to make history.”

Emrith watched the events

Inside ...

from the Lincoln Memorial and from near Seventh Street, but eventually the cold forced the Caribbean native to retreat Emrith to a hotel lobby.

“We didn’t even get close enough, but nobody complained,” she said. “People were so happy to just witness it that they were chanting his name.”

E v e n b a c k i n Ta m p a , sophomore Samantha Saplholz said she could feel the enthusiasm.

“The positive energy of the

crowd was overwhelming,” she said.

A l l i e Ta y l o r s a i d t h e excitement spread well beyond the inauguration’s estimated 2 million attendees. ”President Obama is an inspiration to the nation,” she said.

Obama’s much anticipated speech recognized the national crisis but offered hope and encouragement, calling on people to take responsibility and to shape a more positive future for the See

“Obama” [2]

Sodexo Violations Update [4] Israel-Palestine [5] Play Q&A [15] Greatest Football Movies [7]

Hookups [10] Inaugural Poem [11]

Sports Reports from UT Alum [3]

Photo by Travis Heying/MCT

News....................[1-5] A&E.................[7-9] Editorial ...........[10] Commentary[10-12] Sports ..........[14-16]

“Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and again start the remaking of America.” [President Barack Obama]

News

2

The Minaret | January 23, 2009

Inauguration: UT Student Rubs Elbows with Political Bigshots

By Jillian Randel Staff Writer

Editor-in-Chief Peter Arrabal parrabal@gmail.com

Asst. Editor-in-Chief Charlie Hambos chambos@ut.edu

News Editor Ellery McCardle minaret.news@gmail.com

Commentary Editor Derrick Austin minaret.commentary@gmail.com

Sports Editor Bobby Winsler

minaret.sports@gmail.com

A&E Editor Mel Steiner

minaret.arts@gmail.com

Online Editor Alex Vera

avera813@tampabay.rr.com

Head Photographer Mindy Tucker mtucker@ut.edu

Adviser Charles McKenzie charles.mckenzie@ut.edu

Staff-At-Large

Sarah Gottlieb, Asst. News Editor Jillian Randel, Reporter JP Busche, Staff Writer Emily Williams, Reporter Delaney Spoerl, Reporter Stephanie Roman, Reporter Thiago Queiroz, Reporter Erika Escobar, Reporter Megan Smith, Reporter Austin Daniels, Cartoonist Max Roberts, Artist Shanette Lewis, Photographer Elizabeth Harm, A&E Kadie Hayward, A&E Shannon Grippando, Reporter Kristen Vasquez, A&E Shelby Kuni, Sports Olivia Glynn, Sports Kyle Bennett, Sports Samuel Gerb, Sports Shannon Grippando, Copyeditor

You can reach The Minaret directly at (813) 257-3636

The Minaret is a weekly student-run publication of the University of Tampa. As a student organization, The Minaret invites all students to take part in its production. Inquiries and comments may be sent to ut.minaret@gmail.com

Check out TheMinaretOnline.com for up-to-the-minute information on top stories and breaking news.

Your first two copies of The Minaret are free.

Each additional copy is $1.00.

Adriana Corso, a UT senior, attended the Presidential Inauguration. During her 10-day trip, she spotted many politicians and met Hilary Rodham Clinton.

JR: What are you doing in Washington DC for the inauguration?

AC: I am participating in a weeklong program with the Washington Center, attending different events and lectures all week. There are almost 800 students doing the program. We listen to different speakers every morning from 8:30 until 2 and then we go see monuments and museums around the city. We also write journals and had the opportunity to write memos to the president on how we think he should conduct his presidency and use his power.

JR: What kinds of lectures do you attend?

AC: I have seen all kinds of speakers. I met a secret service agent who had guarded the Pope and Queen Elizabeth. I heard a lecture from the Palestinian Ambassador which was interesting considering the current situation.

JR: Have there been any particularly interesting moments?

AC: Yes. We saw an episode of CSPAN filmed. Dana Parino, Bush’s White House Press Secretary, spoke From “Inauguration”: Front Page nation.

“Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and begin again the work of remaking America,” Obama said.

“For everywhere we look, there is work to be done.”

Since his election, the former community organizer has stressed service, a message that resonates with UT’s P.E.A.C.E. office, which coordinates volunteerism.

O rg a n i z e r s , l i k e M o l l y Murphy, anticipate Obama will spur interest.

“I think we’ve found he is an influence on our generation,” said Murphy, who is ready for waves of volunteers. “If there is an abundance of student volunteers, we are prepared to facilitate them.”

Obama said Americans had made a critical decision.

“On this day we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord,” said Obama, asking Americans to do what they could to make the nation great again.

“This is the price of citizenship,” he said. “This is the source of our confidence. This is the meaning of our liberty and creed.”

Looking forward With his daughters by his side, Obama said he wanted to ensure the nation’s ideals were passed on to future Americans.

“With fixed eyes on the horizon and God’s grace upon us, we carried fourth the great gift of freedom and deliver it safely to future generations,” Obama said.

While Obama was hopeful in his speech, he said he sees the challenging times ahead.

“Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real,” he said.

on CSPAN. Ted Koppel came on right after her. When Koppel came on the show he called Dana Parrino a liar because she had said that the war in Iraq had nothing to do with oil. It was interesting to see these people interacting in such intense debates.

JR: What other cool people have you seen?

AC: I saw part of Senator Clinton’s confirmation hearing.

John Kerry, who is the head of the Senate Foreign Relations committee was there. It was like walking into my favorite rock concert and I was sitting in the front row. They were talking about Clinton’s involvement with education and the affect that Bill’s fundraising would have on her position as Secretary of State.

We also got to see Eric Holder’s hearing. Comparing the two hearings was incredible. Senator Clinton was so comfortable and confident and intelligent. Holder was fumbling and nervous, and just looked like a wreck.

JR: What did you think of Senator Clinton?

AC: Actually, I got to meet her!

After her hearing we waited around to see her but she never came out.

When we left, my friend realized he’d forgotten his gloves so we ran back to the building to get them.

When we got there, Senator Clinton and Chelsea Clinton were walking down the front steps. I introduced myself and congratulated her on her

confirmation as Secretary of State.

She was so nice and told me she thought my coat was cute. Chelsea asked us what we were doing and about our program. They were so normal and took the time to talk to us and take a picture with us.

“Change has come to America.”

Obama said.

UT student Katelyn Goodwin said she feels the transition.

“I think big changes are coming,” she said. “He spoke like a leader.”

Conservative Support Even those who didn’t vote for Obama said they support the new president. Some are even ready to go to war for him.

Two ROTC students, Ryan Enix and Tony Gaeta, were eager to give their opinion about the inauguration, as well as the campaign.

“We followed the campaign throughout, however, voted for McCain,” said Enix and Gaeta.

Both students felt that McCain would lead the country better in a time of war due to McCain’s strong military background, which Obama lacks. However, “As Commander in Chief, we support Obama and would follow orders if put into that situation in the future,” said Enix.

Jason Bass, a sophomore, said in his predominantly conservative hometown, Obama had won over a number of supporters.

“He connects with the younger generation,” he said.

Bass watched the Inauguration in his English 102 class and was assigned to write a paper on the format and content of the speech.

“I thought the speech was very well done and very powerful,” he said. “I hope he will act on his words.”

Freshman Alex Caraballo agreed. “It’s about time to move towards a progressive agenda.

He needs to establish America as a moral authority and come together as one.”

Watching the Inauguration Most students who had class

during the events watched them on television. Senior Stephanie Whitehall watched during her screenwriting class.

“It was such a historical moment,” Whitehall said. “When future generations ask you where you were during Obama’s inauguration, you don’t want to say you were just in a room doing nothing. Just by watching it, we became a part of history.”

One student, John Dolan, was waiting until later to watch it on his computer. Junior Deja Smith was waiting too.

“I have it recording at home,” she said. “It comes to show you how America is changing.”

Many UT professors let their students out early to watch the event.

“Right when I got out of class, I turned it on,” said junior Bryan Cormier, who was at first underwhelmed.

He had recalled John F. Kennedy’s stirring inauguration speech in which he famously said,

JR: Have you had the chance to see a lot of sites in DC? What was your favorite?

AC: It was really cool to see the House and Senate floors. I got to see the seat where Nancy Pelosi sits, which was awesome.

I also really liked the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials. In the museums I saw the Watergate door, the Magna Carta and pieces of the Berlin Wall and a piece of one of the twin towers.

JR: What inauguration events have you attended so far?

AC: I went to the Lincoln

Memorial Inauguration concert. It was crazy. There were over 500,000 people there, and we were about thirty people away from the stage.

Stevie Wonder, Usher and Shakira were awesome onstage. Garth Brooks did the best job pumping up the crowd, which surprised me.

I am excited because I also get to go to the Black Tie and Boots Ball and the All American Ball. Basically, people are going to get dressed up and celebrate and have a good time.

I am really hoping Obama shows up at one of them.

JR: What has been your favorite part of this experience?

AC: Meeting Senator Clinton was definitely my favorite part.

I think being able to watch our elected officials working and in action during hearings and meetings has been such a great experience.

Jillian Randel can be reached at jillianrandel@yahoo.com

Photo by Adriana Corso

“Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country.”

But soon, the president’s speech had won Cormier over.

“As I reflected on Obama’s overall message, I got more excited.”

Nicole Sicignano, senior, watched the inauguration in her criminology class.“Everyone was really excited to watch it,” Sicignano said. “They loved everything he said and had to offer.”

Sicignano, who has been an Obama supporter since he started his campaign, liked his speech.

“I loved what he said about equality and education,” Sicignano said.

Junior Ashley Whitney was also excited to watch Obama’s speech, but the classmates in her Racial and Ethnic Relations class thought differently.

“In the beginning, they were making fun,” said junior Ashlea Whitney, who voted for Obama in her very first presidential election.

Students Serve on M.L.K. Day

UT students clean up off Lithia Pinecrest Road in Valrico.

Photo courtesy of UT Office of Public Information and Publications

The Minaret | January 23, 2009

News

UT Alumna Reports Sports to Local Texans

By Ellery McCardle News Editor

Being a sports reporter was a no-brainer for Jessica Moran. This former University of Tampa soccer player knew she wanted to work in sports while at school. She lives out her love of the game everyday as a sports anchor at KDBC in El Paso, Texas.

This UT alumna first got her inspiration for sports broadcasting while studying and playing soccer at UT. “My whole life I played sports so I had a good idea that something sports related was what I wanted to do,” Moran said.

But it was not until she interned at WFLA, the Tampa NBC affiliate, that she knew TV was in her future.

Her first assignment was to cover the Stanley Cup victory parade in downtown Tampa.

“They let me do a lot of the interviews, and they helped me build my resume tape.”

For those already in the broadcasting business, resume tapes are a must. Moran said she sent out 100 tapes, only to get three job offers. She accepted her first on-air job three months after she

Jessica Moran interviews Troy Collavo, a former University of Texas-El Paso football player. Photo by Jessica Moran

graduated in May 2005.

South Dakota So this New England native headed to Rapid City, South Dakota, which was a rude awakening, going from Tampa’s warm winters, to the bitter cold of the north. Not only because of the cold winters up north but because she went from the Tampa, the 13th largest market,

to Rapid City, the 176th market out of 200, which in the TV business, is a small station.

Moran said that for a broadcaster’s first job, “You have to start as small as you can get.” She knows first-hand what tremendous responsibility it takes because she was, as many in the business call it, a “one-man band.” She produced,

wrote, edited, shot, anchored and reported all sports coverage five days a week.

“It’s sink or swim, you either rise to the challenges or you’re not going to make it,” she said.

Moran said the first month was very tough, “I didn’t think I was going to make it.”

Texas In March 2006, Moran made her next career stop in El Paso, Texas, a 98th market station, where she currently reports and anchors.

She said networking was how she got this job.

Living in Texas has opened her eyes to a new culture.

“I’m right on the border. I could throw a rock and hit Mexico,” she said.

So far, she has won three Texas Associated Press awards and one New Mexico Associated Press award for her work.

UT Education Moran credits UT with giving her a valuable education.

“My UT experience was tremendous and very helpful.”

She said UT communication professors Mark Douglas, Donovan Myrie and Gregg Bachmann helped

3

her learn broadcast news.

She took classes such as Studio TV I and Writing for Broadcast News to help her prepare for her job.

Playing on the field also helped Moran with understanding sports coverage.

“Playing soccer taught me about scheduling and dealing with adversity,” she said.

She also learned to love the city of Tampa while studying at UT. “I’d go back there in a heartbeat,” she said.

Future Moran and her agent are currently looking for her next career stop. But she said the city size does not matter.

“I want to go somewhere where I am recognized for my work,” she said.

For students looking to be a TV broadcaster, she said, “You have to be aggressive but not desperate.”

“If you accept the work load, you have to attack it and go for it.”

Ellery McCardle can be reached at ellery.mccardle@gmail.com

Tampa Named Most Caffeinated City

By Charlie Hambos Asst. Editor-in-chief

Tampa has officially been named the most caffeinated city in the United States according to a recent poll.

Prince Market Research recently polled 2,005 asking individuals about their caffeine use.

Seattle, Chicago, New York and Los Angeles follow Tampa in the highly energized survey.

It’s not surprising that Tampa has been bestowed the honor of the title since nine Starbucks Coffee shops are located within a three mile radius of the University of Tampa.

According to the MSNBC report, coffee is not the only source o f Ta m p a ’s c a ff e i n e Photo by Melissa a d d i c t i o n .

Green/MCT Energy drinks, caffeine pills and tea can be added to the list.

For some UT students caffeine consumption happens every day, but others only use it when they need it.

“I drink two cups of coffee in the morning, and three shots of espresso around lunch,” junior

Christopher Bendiksen said. “And in the afternoon I usually get a large coke slurpee from 7/11; plus the occasional 10 cup equivalent caffeine pill if otherwise needed.”

“I don’t ever drink coffee or energy drinks...unless it’s finals week and I’m absolutely desperate to stay awake, but even then I’ll still only have one,” junior Shannon Navarro said. “I’ve only had three cups of coffee in my life.”

Photo by MCT.

Check out page 12 for a commentary on Tampa’s obsession with caffeine

UT, City Block Parking along Railroad Tracks Cass St. parking also banned; School cites safety concerns

Staff Report

T h e C i t y o f Ta m p a , i n conjunction with CSX Railways, has cordoned off the grassy area along the railroad track near the Cass Street entrance.

It is illegal to park in that area, and individuals parked there are threatened with towing and tickets.

Parking in the roadway along Cass Street is also prohibited.

UT students often park there to attend classes in the Cass Building or for sporting events. Tampa Prep students often park there as well.

Public Information says that eventually there will be permanent bollards and landscaping installed, in addition to no parking and towing signage.

“It’s terrible that people park there,” Kevin Howell, assistant director of security said before the parking was closed, calling the issue “dangerous.”

Howell said that the Jacksonville-based transportation company, CSX Transportation

Corporation, owns the tracks and some of the area around it, but the grass part is owned by the city.

Howell says if a car is in the way, CSX has to stop the train and tow the car which could result in up to a two hour delay.

Not to mention that many of the substances running on the trains to and from the Port of Tampa carry liquid sulfur, ammonium and chlorine which are all hazardous.

According to Howell, the city

Photo by Anna Burrell

does not consider parking on the grass near the tracks illegal, because it isn’t parking on the sidewalk, obstructing the view of the right of way and are 30 feet away from the stop sign.

At any given time during the day cars line the tracks from N. Boulevard all the way to the river.

Students go in and out, ignoring the “No Trespassing” signs and danger warnings of being near the railroad tracks.

         





4

News

The Minaret | January 23, 2009

One Year Later: UT Dining Inspections Improve

By Ellery McCardle News Editor

Sodexo’s UT dining services have seen a significant improvement in their health inspection grades after a startling increase in critical violations in the first half of 2007.

In recent years, the number of “critical” health violations at UT’s Dining Services had skyrocketed in comparison to previous reports.

In 2005 and 2006, the Florida State Health Commission inspected oncampus dining and found only two critical violations in each year.

However, these transgressions paled in comparison to the findings of an inspection in January 2007, in which 10 critical violations were issued. Another inspection last June revealed nine critical violations.

The repeated violations included soil buildup in ice bins, hand washing sinks that were inaccessible at times, food switched into unlabeled containers, missing ceiling tiles and improper use of food containers.

Dining Services said the rise in violations came because they had more on their plate last year with the addition of 85 workers to support the new dining in Stadium Center. Last fall, Sodexo had 250 employees on campus.

Last September, The Minaret published a series on UT’s dining services, but beginning in December, the violations returned to a more routine level (every restaurant has at least a few violations).

Illustration by Max Roberts

Unexpected Visits A c c o r d i n g t o o ff i c i a l s , state inspectors randomly show up to check for problems with food preparation, sanitation and procedural actions. Once their report is given to Dining Services, the problems are fixed.

Monthly inspections are also

done by Dining Services managers and supervisors. In June 2007, for example, an in-house inspection scored the cafeteria a 95 percent rating. These inspections are similar to those performed by state officials.

Among many criteria, Sodexo checks for personal hygiene and cooking temperatures.

Besides in-house and state inspections, Sodexo corporate inspectors come unannounced.

Certification is another important process. Every year S o d e x o ’s c a t e r i n g s e r v i c e , which provides for all oncampus events, is renewed. If not accomplished, catering privileges will be terminated until renewal.

U T V S . B U F F E T- S T Y L E RESTAURANTS While the number of critical violations UT received was alarming, a few similar local restaurants with serve-yourself style eating managed to rack up far more critical health infractions Crazy Buffet on Dale Mabry, for example, has a favorable reputation among students, but according to health inspections, the eatery was in dire need of spring cleaning.

Not only did Crazy Buffet have 25 critical violations in May 2007, but it was observed again the next day and received seven more health violations. In October, it had 15 critical violations and tallied 25 this March (2008). Serious food violations had included employees handling raw meat without washing their hands, slime in the ice machines and food on “clean” utensils and dishware.

The Golden Corral on Hillsborough Avenue had 31 violations in September 2007 and 22 in March 2007.

Spring Cleaning Despite the critical violations

dining services racked up in 2007, spring 2008 showed some progress.

In February, two critical violations were issued and in June three critical violations were issued.

SODEXO BACKGROUND Sodexo is a massive multinational company, and its U.S. branch (www.sodexoUSA. com) manages dining and other facilities around the U.S., Canada and Mexico. In North America, the company claims to have $7.3 billion in annual revenue and 120,000 employees, serving more than 10 million customers daily in corporations, hospitals, prisons, nursing homes and colleges.

The company funds the Sodexo Foundation (www.helpstophunger. org), an independent charity that has given more than $9.2 million in grants to fight hunger in America, according to Sodexo’s website.

However, Sodexo has also come under fire both in the U.S. and Europe for its work in prisons and in the military as well as its treatment of its workers. Also, sanitation and dietary issues have plagued the company. The film Super Size Me criticized Sodexo’s nutrition for children, and there have also been a number of boycotts at colleges around the world.

All of Sodexo’s inspections can be seen here: https://www.myfloridalicense. com/inspectionDates. asp?SID=&id=2190012

Since the broadcast will be held in Plant Park, Cardenas said there should be minimal disruptions for students.

W h i l e i n Ta m p a , Wi l k e remembered seeing UT before.

“I thought the location was great with the iconic building and the local plant life,” he said.

Not only was the scenery a large factor in CNN’s decision to camp-out at UT, but the accessibility factor helped.

“I like the location, it’s easy to get in and out of,” Wilke said.

Wilke said he looks forward to eating at Tampa’s local restaurants and seeing students.

“I look forward to seeing you guys,” he said.

Unlike past productions on campus, Cardenas said this broadcast is low-key and CNN is not hiring any student interns.

“This is going to be different from the Today Show because they’re not necessarily inviting an

audience,” he said.

Although no students are set to work with CNN Sports, two UT students are interning with NBC for the Super Bowl coverage.

Nichole Ciotti and Amy Bohrer will be interning for a week at the Convention Center starting on Jan. 26.

Ciotti, a UT junior, heard about the internship from Amanda Holt, director of public relations for the Tampa Bay Super Bowl Host Committee.

After submitting her resume, Ciotti had a phone interview with NBC and was offered the position one week later.

As of Jan. 30, Ciotti did not know what responsibilities she would have as an intern.

“I’m most looking forward to seeing the behind-the-scenes action that goes into effect with such a large event as the Super Bowl,” Ciotti said.

Live from Plant Park: CNN Sports to Broadcast on Campus

By Ellery McCardle News Editor

UT will be one of the many faces of the Super Bowl, as CNN Sports broadcasts live from Plant Park next week.

Eric Cardenas, UT director of public information said this event will be great publicity for the university.

“We’re excited. We are pleased when we can help the media cover an event,” he said.

CNN Sports is scheduled to set-up on Jan. 26 and broadcast from the 27th through the 31st between 6 a.m. and midnight.

The search for a broadcast site started last summer. Cardenas was approached in June and by October, CNN finalized its site with UT. David Wilke, coordinating producer for CNN Sports said during his trip in July, he was looking for a site with a backdrop of the city.

CNN Sports will broadcast in Plant Park near the “Sticks of Fire” sculpture.

Special to The Minaret

“I looked at the downtown skyline, but it didn’t scream out enough ‘this is Tampa,’” he said.

With two visits from John McCain and a broadcast of the Today Show in 2008, UT has

become a hotspot for the national media.

“We are approachable to the media and the attention on campus adds to the dynamic nature to the campus,” Cardenas said.

Black Hawk Landing Cancelled, Not Related to Texas A&M Crash Similar Exhibition in Texas leaves one person dead and five injured

By Thiago Queiroz Staff Writer

Photo by flickr.com

The landing of the UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter, scheduled for Jan. 20 at The University of Tampa’s intramural field was cancelled.

According to Lt. Col Jim Smallidge, UT Army ROTC

recruiting and operations officer, the landing was cancelled due to administrative and readiness issues on the aviation units end, but will be rescheduled to a later date.

The helicopter visit, sponsored

by The University of Tampa Army ROTC, was intended to develop interest in the ROTC program and U.S. Army Reserve aviation branch, as well as recognize the first day of spring semester at UT. A similar event at Texas A&M University in December ended tragically, leaving one dead and five injured.

An identical helicopter to the

one scheduled to land at UT was participating in the ROTC Winter Field Training Exercises at the University, and crashed shortly after takeoff in the ground next to the campus.

A press release from Texas A&M stated the rudder of the helicopter apparently failed during the takeoff procedure, leading to the accident.

There is currently no reason to believe that the crash at Texas A&M and the cancelling of the helicopter landing at UT. Thiago Queiroz can be reached at thiagoq00@gmail.com

The Minaret | January 23, 2009

5

News

Two Students, Two Sides: Israel-Palestine Conflict the Israeli army is doing.”

For the past few weeks, tensions have risen as Israeli armed forces have launched military operations into the West Bank in response to rocket attacks fired from Hamascontrolled territories.

Estimates vary, and propaganda makes it difficult to ascertain the truth. Some reports say Hamas launches 80 rockets into Israeli territory a day, but Palestinians assert that more than a thousand civilians have been left dead by Israeli strikes.

Abbas, a Minaret office assistant, uses her Facebook status to update friends on the latest happenings in her country. The most recent update reports 984 Palestinian deaths and over 4,000 casualties.

“It’s like Palestinians are not

humans and don’t deserve human rights, or Israel is divine and gets to do what it wants,” she said. “By trying to eliminate ‘terrorists’ they are creating new ‘terrorists.’ To resolve this there need to be a just two state solution which is what the Palestinian government has been calling for.”

Daily life was difficult for Abbas during her month-long break.

“All everyone does is watch the news and try to donate blood and food and more,” she said.

“But still in Gaza the hospitals are running out of places for the wounded, there is no gas to keep the houses warm and for cooking that people are looking for wood so they can cook.”

On the other side of the conflict is Gottlieb. She just returned from

In the few days before I left for Israel, I saw the news reports on CNN and other major stations, each About a week after news of focusing on the numbers of civilian Israel attacking Hamas broke in deaths in the Gaza Strip. After the the U.S., I went on my Birthright first day of reporting that Israel had trip to Israel. been on the offense, some news Birthright, a program that sends stations began to say it was because young American Jews to Israel, lasts Hamas had been firing rockets into ten days and splits participants into Israel. It wasn’t until I arrived in different groups. My group had 29 Israel that I learned that Hamas had Americans, and for four days, seven been for weeks firing as many as 80 Israeli soldiers toured the country rockets a day into Israel. The U.S. and lived with us. media got around to telling that part Being in Israel in the midst by the time I came home. of the conflict sparked intense When I learned of the 80 conversation between our entire rockets per day, I first began to ask Birthright group and the Israeli why there had been no mention of soldiers we lived with-- conversation this in the U.S. news before Israel that definitely would not have attacked. Was the reporting at been so intense only a few weeks home really so incomplete? Was it earlier. biased? It made no sense that the In the U.S., I had never been first big stories about the conflict able to fully understand the conflict suddenly arose because Israel between Israel and Hamas. I do not decided to defend itself. Israeli pretend now that I fully understand soldiers I spoke to asked this same it, but I believe I had gained a new question of us. They too could perspective by being there and not understand why the big news that I learned a lot of truths, many came when Israel decided to make of which most people outside of a move.

Israel and the Middle East are I became angry at the things ignorant to.

I learned Hamas was doing, angry One week before I was at for the lack of thoroughness on scheduled to leave, the media the part of U.S. media, and angry suddenly began reporting that Israel toward groups who were angry with was attacking Hamas and the Gaza Israel for defending itself. What Strip. No news station at first said other country in the world would why, only that it was so. sit by and take no offense while it was being relentlessly attacked for weeks? Israel warned Hamas, pleaded with them to stop before they had to act. I don’t know of any country with an army as strong as Israel’s that would wait so long before striking back.

T h e soldiers we lived with told us the side of Hamas Israel is dealing with, the side that is given proportionally Ein Gedi, an oasis near the Dead Sea little attention

in the media.

“Civilian deaths,” as reported in the U.S. news, mean something different in Israel. No Israeli denies that innocent lives are taken, but many dispute some of the numbers the media comes up with. Also argued is how these deaths are portrayed in the news.

Hamas hides behind civilians.

It uses them as shields. In the U.S., when we hear that 50 civilians were killed, it doesn’t always mean 50 innocent people. Hamas wears no uniform, and stands out no differently than innocent people on a crowded street.

Soldiers in our group told us that when Israel Defense Forces strike, they send warnings out to civilians.

They target specific areas; places where they know Hamas leaders live or organize. The IDF never attacks at random the way Hamas randomly launches rockets over the Gaza border into Israel. The IDF knows who the Hamas leaders are, but true civilians, and evidently the media, do not always.

The more the media reports about civilian deaths in Gaza and the less about Hamas tactics, the happier Hamas is. Hamas is a terrorist organization-- it cares nothing for any innocent civilians.

It gains when there are reports of civilian deaths in the Gaza Strip. It gets what it wants: people hear only about innocent deaths and suffering and begin to turn against Israel.

During my trip, I felt myself understanding Israel’s fight more and more. While nothing made me feel better about the loss of innocent lives, it became clear that there is truly no other way for Israel to protect itself at this time.

While I support Israel, I also learned that there are many faces of this conflict in the Middle East-- not just the current conflict between Israel and Hamas. It seems that there are many things that still need to be understood.

At one conference we had near Haifa, the speaker there asked us to define who a Palestinian is. No one could come up with a clear answer.

He asked: Was it someone who lived in the West Bank or Gaza?

Someone who once lived in what was officially called Palestine? But weren’t some of those people also living in Israel-- didn’t that make

By Peter Arrabal Editor-in-chief

Two University of Tampa students spent their winter breaks inside a pair of war-torn nations, with one spending a week in Israel and the other living in Ramallah, Palestine.

Tampa remained a peaceful place, but war raged near the hometown of sophomore Yara Abbas. Sarah Gottlieb, The Minaret’s assistant news editor, traveled from New York to Israel for her Birthright trip. Abbas, a native of Palestine, grew up just miles away from the recurrent violence in the Gaza Strip.

“For New Years, people around the world celebrated,” she said. “My friends and I went to the downtown of Ramallah to protest against what

Israel, where she traveled to take advantage of her birthright trip. All people of Jewish origin are afforded a free trip to Israel to learn of their history and heritage.

She spent a week with 29 Americans and seven Israeli soldiers. She toured the country and got first-hand insight into the conflict.

“Hamas hides behind civilians,” she wrote. “It uses them as shields. In the U.S., when we hear that 50 civilians were killed, it doesn’t always mean 50 innocent people. Hamas wears no uniform, and stands out no differently than innocent people on a crowded street.”

For Abbas, though, the simplest parts of life were most difficult.

“Even bakeries for bread, there’s less than 20 open for 1.5

million people because of the lack of flour and gas due to Israel stopping it from entering,” she said. “That’s unbelievable!! There are many people living without electricity or clean water because Israel bombed the supply.”

Some justify the attacks as unfortunate side effects from trying to stop the Hamas rockets. They say Israel must cut the Hamas supply lines and undermine its authority, but others worry the actions make Hamas’ aid to civilians all the more important, and future fighters all the more resolute.

The Minaret realizes this is a difficult subject which has many different sides. We encourage productive conversation on our Web site, but commenters must refrain from personal and offbase attacks.

Student Takes Birthright in Israel Amidst Conflict

By Sarah Gottlieb Asst. News Editor

Ruins at Masada

them Israeli also? Then he asked us to define who an Arab was. Just a person who spoke Arabic? Were Arabs living in Israel not Israeli also?

His point was that many people today aren’t sure exactly who they were referring to when they talked about Arabs and Palestinians.

Many people in the Middle East who thought of themselves as Arab or Palestinian found themselves conflicted, and not necessarily on one side or another.

Because Israel is called the Jewish state, many who are not Jewish are not sure what their identity or their place in Israel is.

Since the trip, I feel more knowledgeable about the current Hamas and Israel conflict, as well as the other daily conflicts taking place in Israel between borders, religions,

nationalities and identities. I feel that I am able to understand a lot more about the conflict.

Out of everything, I think the most important thing I learned were truths in this current conflict between Hamas and Israel, and all of the things being left ignored in U.S. media reports.

Most importantly though, I believe everyone needs to open their minds and try to see beyond what is being reported, and try to see that the Middle East is an entirely different world than anywhere else. It truly cannot be compared to anything else, which is why it is something you need to see to begin to understand.

Sarah Gottlieb can be reached at sgottlieb@ut.edu

Sign post at the Golan Heights Photos by Sarah Gottlieb

Advertisement

6

The Minaret | January 23, 2009

Fashion conscious.

Budget conscious.

Plus, get a 15% faculty and staff discount.

On monthly access on calling plans $39.99 or higher.

NEW! Samsung Omnia™

TouchWiz Touchscreen > 5 Megapixel Camera/Video Camera > Media Player with FM Radio

$19999

$269.99 2-yr. price –$70 mail-in rebate debit card. New 2-yr. activation on voice plan with email feature or email plan.

enV®2 by LG

Mini Messaging Center > Full QWERTY Keyboard > Fast email and Web access

$4999

High-Speed Wireless Internet USB175 Modem

Surf, check email and more!

FREE

$49.99 2-yr. price –$50 mail-in rebate debit card. New 2-yr. activation on Mobile Broadband Plan.

$99.99 2-yr. price –$50 mail-in rebate debit card with 2-yr. activation.

Switch to America’s Most Reliable Wireless Network.® Call 1.888.VZW.4BIZ

Click verizonwireless.com/getdiscount

Visit any store

VERIZON WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS STORES Open 7 days a week. Technicians available at select locations.

BRANDON 225 W. Brandon Town Center Blvd. 813-643-3507 Brandon Town Center Mall 813-681-7217 CARROLLWOOD 15324 N. Dale Mabry 813-265-4622 CITRUS PARK 8204 Citrus Park Dr. 813-792-9145 CLEARWATER 25704 US Hwy. 19 N. 727-725-3215 CLEARWATER E. 2664 Gulf to Bay Blvd. 727-723-9888

NEW TAMPA 17501 Preserve Walk Ln. 813-972-4590 N. LAKELAND 3970 US Hwy. 98 N. 863-816-1400 Lakeland Square Mall Kiosk 863-859-2843 PINELLAS PARK NEW! 6898 US Hwy. 19 N. 727-525-1494 PORT RICHEY 9304 US Hwy. 19 N. 727-841-0872 MATRÍCULA CONSULAR

S. LAKELAND 4120 S. Florida Ave. 863-709-0824 S. TAMPA 714 S. Dale Mabry 813-874-5718 ST. PETERSBURG NEW! 4870 Park St. N. 727-544-4676 WESLEY CHAPEL NEW! 27835 Wesley Chapel Blvd. 813-907-8511

BUSINESS CUSTOMERS

1-800-899-4249

Verizon Wireless not available at all BJ’s Membership Clubs.

Activation fee/line: $35.

IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: Subject to Customer Agmt, Calling Plan, rebate form & credit approval. Up to $175 early termination fee/line & other charges. Offers and coverage, varying by service, not available everywhere. Device capabilities: Add’l charges & conditions apply. Rebate debit card takes up to 6 weeks & expires in 12 months. Limited-time offers. While supplies last. Network details and coverage maps at verizonwireless.com. © 2009 Verizon Wireless.

FCBC

By Linda C Black Tribune Media Services

Aries (March 21-April 19) Conditions are tough, but not impossible. Teach what you’ve learned to others and together you’ll find the right answers. Talk to people who’ve been through this before.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) You certainly shouldn’t make personal long-distance calls on company time, of course. But you do need to talk to a friend or associate who’s far away. Discuss business, too.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) A review of your finances should be very interesting now.

You might even find a leak or two that you can plug up. That makes it worth the trouble right there.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) Discuss your goals with your partner. You don’t have to share the same ones. As each of you prospers, the other will benefit, too. It’s not easy, but it’s worth going for.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) All the chores you’ve been putting off are becoming overdue. Luckily, you’re very good at multi-tasking now. Race around and do more than three regular people can.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) You’re not alone, that’s for sure. Share your innermost thoughts with a person who loves you and means you well.

Top Five Greatest Football Movies Of All Time

3.

Brian’s Song When cancer strikes an unlikely friendship, a bond is formed that surpasses football, race and adversity. This unforgettable classic makes a positive impact on almost everyone who watches it.

4.

We Are Marshall Inspired by a true story, this film follows a fatal plane crash which killed members of the Marshall University football team and the aftermath of starting over.

By Alan Mehanna Staff Writer

1.

Remember The Titans Set in 1971, Coach Herman Boone, is hired as head coach for a newly integrated high school football team. The struggle to build a successful team is intensified by the struggle to surpass racial tensions. The team unifies when the players realize they share a common goal and understand that attitude is what separates people, not race.

7

Arts & Entertainment

The Minaret | January 23, 2009

2.

Rudy Rudy is an unforgettable, inspirational film based on the true story of a Notre Dame football player’s journey to the team roster and playing field.

Despite his small stature and weak athletic ability, Rudy’s will, perseverance and determination fulfill his life’s dream and earn him the respect, affection and admiration of his team and the community.

5.

Friday Night Lights In a town where the only way out is a football scholarship, the pressure to win is intense. High school Coach Gary Gaines carries the weight of that pressure on his shoulders and sets out to show his players there is more to winning than the final score of the ball game.

Shake off old fears and take on your next challenge. Together, it’ll be fun.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Give each person a turn to tell what’s going on in their life, and how the others could help.

No interrupting, please, and no jeering or raucous laughter.

Work as a team.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Go back over old material.

The answer you seek may be there. You didn’t recognize it before because you didn’t need it. Peruse your notes; I’ll jump out at you.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Keep close count on the money coming in and already in your pocket. Don’t assume you have more than you do.

That could lead to embarrassing mistakes.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) It’s been difficult to express your opinions in words lately.

That’s no longer the case, although you may want to make a rough draft. Tell your story.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Make time to put together a list and set some priorities. You feel like it all has to get done right now, but that can’t happen.

Not even if you clone yourself.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Meetings should go well today. Hash over old problems first. Make a list of things to be done and the best people to do them. Keep sorting through the mess; it’s easier now.

8

Super Bowl

By Katy Sandusky Staff Writer

Super Bowl mayhem is en route to Tampa. Whether you’re rooting for the Cardinals, Steelers or mourning your team’s lack of playoff contention it will be impossible to ignore the Super Bowl hype headed for Raymond James Stadium.

The following is a guide to decking your life out Super Bowl style, whether you are a dedicated fan or a novice.

The essential jersey that many fans adorn can leave a college student bankrupt of their monthly balance.

Instead, opt for tee shirts, hats, or other fan apparel that won’t be quite as pricey. Remember to check places such as Kohls, Target, or Wal-Mart for lower grade jerseys

and apparel that will also be less expensive.

In the event that you want to go for the real thing, and can stand to sacrifice a few Saturday nights out, be sure to purchase your jersey through the NFL to ensure authenticity.

Die-hard fans have been known to sacrifice their heads for the game by shaving logos and dying team colors right into their locks.

For the ambitious do it yourself types, manic panic dyes are the way to go for bright colors.

The dye is vegan, and very easy to use with bleach kits to intensify the color.

For the fan that wants to constantly advertise their team loyalty and status as the twelfth man, decking out your car would seam instinctual.

For a less permanent way to advertise, we return to the years of high school pep rallies with neon car paints.

There are many options available on www.amazon.com, arts and crafts stores and web sites.

When purchasing be sure to learn their permanence, some simply wipe off and others require scraping off with window cleaner.

For the fan that wants to be a tad more official, and doesn’t mind sacrificing a little bumper space, NFL bumper stickers are always an option.

The site, www.stickergiant. com, offers collections on every NFL team, so you are sure to find one that you like.

Inside of the car, there is the option of team logo seat covers.

For a smaller investment, the www.

The Minaret | January 23, 2009

fansedge.com has headrest covers on sale.

For an even smaller investment, find a fun team necklace, bracelet, or medallion and hang it from your rear view mirror.

Some may already sleep on sheets dedicated to their favorite NFL team, but for those of you that choose a more traditional décor, it isn’t too late to show some spirit.

The site, www.fathead. com, has been providing decals of varying size to fans for a long time.

It has perfected the art of virtually bringing your favorite team into your home.

With a large range of sizes and options this is the only spot for quality decals.

Dicks Sporting Goods also carries the Fathead graphics.

In addition, be sure to check

places like Target and Wal-Mart for Super Bowl themed home items.

If your account is low, get creative and team up with your roommates to collage your team’s success.

Newspaper cut outs, magazine photos, internet pictures, scissors and a little glue will give you the celebratory edge you desire.

In short, pick a team, pick a place to watch the game, and show some pride, because it isn’t everyday that the best players in the NFL tear up the field at Raymond James.

GO ONLINE Share your thoughts on this article!

Leave a comment on our Web site and let us know!

www.theminaretonline.com

What To Watch: The Big Game or The Commercials?

By Mike Trobiano Staff Writer

It’s that time of year when America gets ready for its version of the clash of the titans, A.K.A. the Super Bowl.

You know the drill; time to gather up all the chips and dip you can find and completely forget about any New Year’s resolutions to stay fit.

For many people, however, congregating around the television on Superbowl Sunday is more about who has the best commercials than who has the best football team.

After all, the ads are talked about way more than the game on Monday morning.

When discussing past commercials, there are several that tend to stick out due to their renowned impact on consumers.

There are the commercials that came before us, like the now notorious 1984 Apple Macintosh ad which gained acknowledgment for its edgy Big-Brother viewpoint and launching the personal computer movement.

Then there are companies like Coca-Cola who, in the past, have taken more traditional approaches and brought the game back into their advertising.

In 1979, the company showed the softer side of former Pittsburgh Steeler’s defensive tackle “Mean” Joe Greene when a young boy offers him a Coke and, in thanks, Greene throws the boy his jersey.

In more recent years, companies like Budweiser have had the most discussed ads, such as the 2000 ad when they coined the phrase “Wassup?”

Photo Illustration by Alex Vera

In addition, other beer corporations like Anheuser Busch have put their recognizable Clydesdale horses in various predicaments throughout the years.

Pepsi has also had multiple campaigns with pop culture icons like Britney Spears, Ozzy Osborne and even Mike

Myers as Austin Powers.

Advertising during the Super Bowl has really become an art form. Companies like Geico have really made names for themselves by growing over the years from a tiny gecko to cavemen and everything in between.

And although a company like Ameriquest Mortgage is not typically thought of as an edgy company, their commercials have become instant classics.

Using the slogan, “Don’t

Judge Too Quickly,” the company has depicted uncomfortable predicaments such as a man preparing a romantic dinner when his white cat jumps on the stove, knocks over a pot of red sauce and gives his shocked girlfriend the wrong impression of a murder scene.

All in all, the Superbowl has commercials for everyone.

Granted, most are generally directed towards a more masculine audience, but every so often a commercial for a romantic comedy or makeup works its way into the mix.

In a sense, these multi-million dollar, thirty second time slots are virtually mini half time shows back to back and you can clearly see how much goes into every aspect of each of them.

It’s in these details that companies make the absolute most of their time slot in hopes to make their product as memorable as possible.

So this year when y o u ’ r e watching, expect to see more memorable marketing from companies like Budweiser, Pepsi, Geico and everything in between.

By Daniella Fusari Staff Writer

Sundays are usually a day to relax, hang out and wish that the weekend would last just one more day. But Super Bowl Sunday gives a whole new meaning to the day.

Eating, drinking and screaming profanities at the TV are just a few of the characteristics that this sacred day holds.

With Super Bowl being just a few weeks after New Years’, and those resolutions to lose weight still fresh in your mind, you don’t want to cave in to cheesy nachos and fatty buffalo wings.

Tips to keep in mind are swapping vegetables for chips, drinking light beer instead of regular, staying away from anything cheesy, fried or creamy and drinking lots of water throughout the day. Also, try some of these low-fat recipes that taste delicious and are still considered some of Super Bowl’s best foods.

Hot-Dog Tortilla Roll-Ups (www.hungrygirl.com)

7 Layer Dip: 1 can (16 oz) non-fat refried beans 1 Tbsp taco seasoning mix 1 cup reduced fat sour cream 1 cup salsa 1 cup shredded lettuce 1 cup low fat shredded cheese ½ cup chopped green onions 2 Tbsp sliced pitted black olives Mix beans and taco seasoning mix. Spread onto the bottom of 9-inch pie plate.

Layer the remaining ingredients over the bean mixture.

Cover.

Refrigerate until chilled. Serve with tortilla chips or assorted vegetables.

2 Hebrew National Hot Dogs 1 La Tortilla Factory 95% Fat Free Low Carb Tortilla 1 slice Kraft Singles Fat Free Cheese Microwave hot dogs according to directions on package.

Slice tortilla in half. Fold cheese to create two halves.

Place each half cheese slice on top of each tortilla half. Roll cooked hot dog in cheesed-up tortilla. Toast in toaster oven until desired golden color is reached. (serving size: 1 dog - 90 calories, 2.5g fat, 650mg sodium, 8.5g carbs, 4g fiber, 0.5g sugar, 11g protein)

Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Bash Gets Ready To Rock Tampa

By Zach Fraser Staff Writer

Super Bowl Sunday: Football, parties, food, beer and music.

Some say that the Super Bowl and all the festivities that surround it make up the epitome of America, and as Super Bowl XLIII approaches, not only do we have the anticipation of the clash between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardinals but also the live music that will be providing viewers with a little uplift to their spirits, just in case the game isn’t quite going the way they had hoped.

The voice behind NBC’s, “Waiting All Week for Sunday Night,” Mrs. Faith Hill will open up game day by singing “America the Beautiful.”

The country diva will be the fourth person in the history of the Super Bowl to sing the song,

9

Super Bowl

The Minaret | January 23, 2009

making it certain that she will perform to her upmost ability.

One of the biggest headlines surrounding game day has been the artist singing the national anthem, Jennifer Hudson. After a difficult and trying year following the deaths of her mother, older brother and nephew, the American Idol contestant will be returning to the limelight to sing what will surely be an emotional national anthem.

And, of course, what would one of the biggest sporting events be without a great half-time show?

Bruce Springsteen, the “Boss” himself, will be gracing this year’s Bridgestone halftime show with, get this, the entire E-street band.

For those who don’t know, the New Jersey native is one of the most note-worthy singer/ songwriters of all time with hits like, “Dancing in the Dark” “Born in the U.S.A.” “Glory Days” and “Born To Run.” Jersey fans may have been let down this year, seeing the Jets, Giants and Eagles all fall short of the Super Bowl, but Bruce Springsteen is as close to a redemption shot as they will see come Super Bowl

Bocalicious Chili (www.hungrygirl.com)

Feta & Spinach Dip (www.weightwatchers.com)

2 Packets of Meatless Ground Boca OR 4 Original Vegan Boca Burger Patties 2 Cans Mexican Style Stewed Tomatoes 1 Small Onion 1 Small Can Kidney Beans Cumin, Salt, Pepper, Chili Powder

4 cup(s) spinach, fresh, chopped (about 2 oz) 1/2 cup(s) light cream cheese 1/2 cup(s) fat-free sour cream 1/4 cup(s) crumbled feta cheese 1/4 cup(s) chives, fresh, minced, divided 2 tsp fresh lemon juice 1/4 tsp black pepper 1/4 tsp table salt, or less to taste (optional)

Spray frying pan with nonstick cooking spray. Heat pan, saute onion, and add ground Boca when onions start to brown.

Saute Boca and onions. Season to taste with cumin, onion powder, salt, pepper, chili powder. Add stewed tomatoes and continue to cook over a medium flame for about 8 minutes. Add beans for the last three minutes or so.

Serves 4. Each serving contains 188 calories, <1g of fat, 15g protein, 26.5 carbs, 9g fiber. (3 points if you’re counting)

XLIII. So whether you’re tailgating with your friends and family, sitting around the living room watching the game or stumbling around a bar, this year’s Super Bowl will have enough performances from actual musicians to make the anticipation for the game just a tad bit more bearable.

Illustration by Alex Vera

Place spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, feta cheese, 2 tablespoons of chives, lemon juice and pepper in a blender; puree. Spoon dip into a serving bowl and sprinkle with remaining tablespoon of chives.

Yields about 3 tablespoons of dip per serving.

97X’s Free Party: Hoobastank Live During Super Bowl Weekend

By Shannon Grippando Staff Writer

Photo by Rodger Mollison/MCT

Place spinach in a small saucepan with 2 cups of water.

Bring to a boil over high heat and then cook for 1 minute; drain well.

Just because the concert is free doesn’t mean you don’t need tickets.

Luckily for UT students, the ticket drops are at prime locations.

97X will be at the Dubliner Irish Pub on Jan. 24, Radiant 101 on Jan. 27, MacDinton’s on Jan. 28 and Bar Louie on Jan. 29.

Just show up, ask for some tickets and proceed with the regular UT binge drinking.

Miller Lite and 97X aren’t unfamiliar with throwing parties.

In December, they came together to host The Next Big Thing, an all-day-long concert featuring bands such as Avenged Sevenfold, Flogging Molly, Flobots and Anberlin.

For more information about the 97X Miller Lite Super Party listen to 97.1 FM or visit http://97xonline.com.

Super Bowl parties are what define the week of the big game.

Since Tampa is hosting this year’s biggest sporting event, dozens of Bowl-bashes are being thrown throughout the city, from the Super Bowl Experience right next to Raymond James Stadium to the Lingerie Bowl in Pasco County.

But big parties means dishing out loads of cash, right? Not necessarily. A local alternative rock radio station, 97X, has teamed up with Miller Lite to provide a free concert: the 97X Miller Lite Super Party, featuring Hoobastank.

The concert will take place at 6 p.m. on Jan. 30 in St. Pete’s Williams Park, just days after Hoobastank’s new album, “For(N)ever,” is released.

The 97X Miller Lite Super Party will be the second appearance the band makes after the album’s release, so it’ll be the perfect time for die-hard fans to hear the new tunes of one of their favorite bands or for curious onlookers to sample a new band for free.

Don’t be fooled, though. Photo courtesy of www.flickr.com

10

Cheers

& Jeers

Whoopi Goldberg

Ann Coulter

No Snow

Cold Weather

2009

2008

Kate Winslet

Angelina Jolie

Benjamin Button

The Unborn

Golden Globes

Oscars

Spartan Dollars

Real Money

President Obama

George W. Bush

Gasparilla

Super Bowl

Wario

Mario

Ellen Degeneres

Dr. Phil

Prince of Persia

Lara Croft

American Idol

Superstars of Dance

Commentary The Minaret | January 23, 2009 Ten Things We Want To See This Year 1. Ensure fair, honest, clean student government elections.

Last year’s SG elections were a political nightmare, with eventual winner Andrew Learned handing out tickets to Tampa Bay Storm games along with candy.

He also had a controversial campaign speech that made many promises – few of which were kept.

Strong ethical rules need to be in place well before the elections start, and allow candidates to run longer campaigns.

2. Allow longer library hours.

We called for this last semester, but nothing happened.

Please, UT, give this school a semblance of an educational institution and don’t black out the library at midnight. That one hour at finals week isn’t all that great, either.

3. Create innovative events.

Seeing the latest movie on a Friday night in Reeves is great (well, sort of), but how about something different?

Maybe throwback Thursdays, or old school Mondays, where films from the 50s and 60s are shown late at night (think: midnight or later).

Or maybe someone could host an outdoor Olympics on the newly re-done soccer field, if athletics will break their death-grip on the venue.

4. Freeze tuition (including reasonable housing costs).

Wallets are getting lighter and belts tighter, and the last place anyone needs to get hit is with a tuition or housing raise.

Paychecks are slimmer and the prospects of credit are slimmer, and adding another 2-3 percent to our annual bills will be devastating for some.

5. Make Thomas Garage for commuters only.

Why do residents need to park next to their dorms when commuters have to hike across campus for their classes?

Residents already have the luxury of a shorter walk to class and have no need to park next to their rooms.

After taking away all oncampus parking for commuters, this is the very least UT can do to show some respect to off-campus residents.

6. Hire a student advocate.

Students should have someone to turn to when they have a problem – with a professor, a fellow student, an administrator, or anyone.

Right now there is no official who will stand up for a student to those in power, and there needs to be one.

7. Reform the bookstore.

It’s the usual complaints: prices are too high, quality is too low. But the fact remains that

the textbook business is a racket.

Compounding this problem is the bookstore’s unwillingness to answer questions asked months ago during a Minaret investigation. If Barnes and Noble is going to have a campus monopoly, they should be proactive for the student, not the profit.

8. Make e-mail reliable.

Oh how we long for the days when our e-mails worked. POP access is available to students again, but the SPAM filter is outdated and blocks random content. The Minaret has requested guidelines for avoiding the SPAM filter on multiple occasions, but has received no answer.

9. Pack home games.

This one is on the students: show up to the basketball, baseball, tennis and other sporting events.

Go to concerts and plays. Immerse yourself in UT culture.

10. Guarantee a good spring concert.

The weight is on SP to outdo last year’s Yellowcard concert, which should be easy to do because Yellowcard was relevant when a majority of UT students were 16 or younger.

Book a modern, interesting act. SP has the largest on-campus budget, and drops a ton of cash on this concert.

We hope it’s worth it this year.

Campus Culture Of Hookups and One-Night Stands Lack Steaminess No-strings attitude toward sex may wreck the intimacy and romance everyone craves

By Anne Napatalung Columnist

Sex. It seems the word gets quite a lot of attention here in the college world.

Heck, if the word itself doesn’t, I’d say the switch from the candy bowl in your parents’ house to the condom bowl in the Health Center should have let you know right when you got here.

And what better atmosphere to promote the act of sex than a world with no parents, loads of attractive hormonal twenty-somethings and a fair share of beds within walking distance from one another?

And did I mention alcohol?

You’ve got to love a substance that takes away inhibitions, makes people friendlier, and to be honest, starts to make that guy or girl to the left of you a little more attractive than they were a few drinks earlier.

There has also the brilliant invention of contraceptives.

Great! Now we no longer have to worry about what sex was actually intended for—reproducing.

So what’s wrong with sex…all the time…anytime…with anyone?

To be honest, I can’t help but worry about how such a common acceptance of promiscuity may be affecting us as young adults.

Remember all that mumbo jumbo we heard about as kids? We were told sex was an act of love and something to be done with those you care about.

Well, surely that guy who keeps buying you beers at the bar

loves you. (He bought you five Coronas at four dollars a pop and he might even pay for your cab!)

And, of course, that guy you’ve been hooking up with cares about you. (I mean you’ve had sex at least three times now, so it’s not just a random hook up anymore, right?)

Granted, none of these behaviors make us bad people.

I’m not writing this article to judge or condemn anyone.

We’re young, so let’s live a little, right? I’m just here to stress the importance of making sure that we are learning along the way.

I just can’t help but wonder how our sexual activity is affecting us now, as well as in the long run.

I wonder if passion still exists in the sex we are engaging in as young adults—not passion as in lust but passion that evolves from caring about another human being or finding who they are as a person to be truly beautiful.

Most of us are still finding out who we are—now more than ever.

So what knowledge are we gaining regarding sex?

Sex is an absolutely amazing thing. It creates a connection between two people, it gives us pleasure, it is a physical representation of love, it is natural and—let’s face it—it’s a great physical workout.

However, I think the way many of us often treat sex—as something for mere pleasure— short changes not only our respect for the act itself, but also ourselves and others.

The individuals involved are

nothing more than their physical body; in harsher terms, they become nothing more than pieces of meat.

In addition, sex becomes a selfish act: working to please yourself instead of working to please the other person, as well.

In a sense, sex for mere pleasure negates the concept of love.

Now, I’m not telling anyone to wrap a chastity belt around their waist and call it a day.

I’d have to say that for as many students as there are on this campus, there are equally as many views on the meaning of sex.

However, I would like to ask all of you to take a moment to decide what your own sexuality means to you.

I hope that your meaning of sexuality does not sacrifice the respect you have for yourself or others.

Our sexuality deals with our own bodies, and the way we choose to use our bodies is solely up to us. As for my words of encouragement: use responsibly.

Anne Napatalung may be reached at anapatalung@ut.edu.

GO ONLINE What do you think about sex on campus?

Comment on our Web site and let us know! www.theminaretonline.com

Image by jsgraphicdesign / flickr.com

11

Commentary

The Minaret | January 23, 2009

Writing History: Inaugural Verses Praise Song for the Day

Midnight, January 20, 2009

Each day we go about our business, walking past each other, catching each other’s eyes or not, about to speak or speaking.

Some live by love thy neighbor as thyself, others by first do no harm or take no more than you need. What if the mightiest word is love?

And we do not know where we are going, except to the sea, this intimate cleft of wind-washed sand.

All about us is noise. All about us is noise and bramble, thorn and din, each one of our ancestors on our tongues.

Love beyond marital, filial, national, love that casts a widening pool of light, love with no need to pre-empt grievance.

Someone is stitching up a hem, darning a hole in a uniform, patching a tire, repairing the things in need of repair.

In today’s sharp sparkle, this winter air, anything can be made, any sentence begun.

On the brink, on the brim, on the cusp,

All around are signs the Earth is wounded.

Wet sand like parched lips, eroded coasts the footprints of a great extinct beast.

Lolling lilac waves, white foam, black crests, clips of yellow are the whispers of many mouths to a single ear.

Someone is trying to make music somewhere, with a pair of wooden spoons on an oil drum, with cello, boom box, harmonica, voice.

praise song for walking forward in that light.

—Elizabeth Alexander, The Inaugural Poem

We open our arms and lean in to the wind and we are falling off the earth—with everyone else it seems.

A woman and her son wait for the bus.

A farmer considers the changing sky.

A teacher says, Take out your pencils. Begin.

Yet we are here under a plum sky in unabashed love with each other because today

We encounter each other in words, words spiny or smooth, whispered or declaimed, words to consider, reconsider.

is another Tuesday. There is no reason to feel otherwise.

Hoosier, Canadian, Afro, Connecticut lesbian— family before and after history.

We cross dirt roads and highways that mark the will of someone and then others, who said I need to see what’s on the other side.

The four of us, our bodies so near, brings Hope, a little closer, from the stars, to the capital, to college students on a winnowing shore.

I know there’s something better down the road.

We need to find a place where we are safe.

We walk into that which we cannot yet see.

When there is a wound, instinct should demand healing.

When strangers touch two worlds are breached.

When I am with you, I am with a new reflection of myself.

Say it plain: that many have died for this day.

Sing the names of the dead who brought us here, who laid the train tracks, raised the bridges, picked the cotton and the lettuce, built brick by brick the glittering edifices they would then keep clean and work inside of.

Image by ladymonarda / flickr.com Alexander reads “Praise Song for the Day.”

Praise song for struggle, praise song for the day.

Praise song for every hand-lettered sign, the figuring-it-out at kitchen tables.

The wind rocks us to the marrow, imprinting a phrase, a tongue into our cells.

We do not know where we are going on a path too certain to name.

—Derrick Austin

Struggle To Climb The “Mountaintop” Of Racial Brotherhood America’s legacy of racism and healing through the lives of a student’s parents

By Nicole Robinson Columnist

When my mother was a teenager in Memphis, Tenn., my grandmother didn’t allow her to go to the local store to shop for school clothes.

My grandmother didn’t take my mother to go shopping for clothes to protect her from the harsh reality that since she was colored, she would not be able to try on clothes like white shoppers and would receive horrible treatment from store associates and others.

When my father was young, he had to sit at the school bus stop, listening to people from his neighborhood shout at him because, according to them, no black man was going to make it in college.

No black man from segregated Memphis was going to go anywhere but back to the neighborhood that he came from.

“We are determined to be people. We are saying that we are God’s children, we don’t have to live as we are forced to live.”

Despite my mother’s stellar grades that would allow her to pursue just about any career path she wanted, her guidance counselors pushed her to be a nurse

or a teacher (not to take away from those honorable jobs).

Those were the two career paths acceptable for young black women.

Still, my mother and father worked hard despite poverty and the fractured, racially-divided country they lived in, becoming the first members from both their families to attend college.

“But I wouldn’t stop there.”

They both met at Washington University in St. Louis, MO. My mother became a physical therapist and my father earned his Ph.D. in Nuclear Chemistry.

“But I wouldn’t stop there.”

As my parents were growing up, Ruby Bridges was somewhere surrounded by U.S. Marshals protecting her from crowds that shouted and threw objects at her in order to prevent her from entering their all-white school.

But that didn’t stop her.

She was the beginning of integrated education.

“But I wouldn’t stop there.”

Now, over forty years later, Barack Obama is walking into the White House with different kinds of shouts. He’s walking into the White House with the nation’s encouragement.

Once, blacks only entered through the back door; now Obama is walking in the front door as the President of the United States.

Some have tried to downplay the significance of this moment in history.

But, my great Aunt sat in the church where Martin Luther King gave his last sermon.

My mother, father, grandmother and grandfather remember that speech, the hope that it gave them and what it felt like to have that hope all but stripped away the very next day when Dr. King was shot down at the Lorraine hotel.

Now they all saw Obama’s first inaugural speech, a man in a position most people in those troubled times never thought would exist.

“And He’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over. And I’ve seen the Promised Land.”

That our nation has turned on its head holds so much significance,at least to me.

My family, in one lifetime, has lived in two different worlds.

There are no words that can truly capture how grateful I am to all that made this moment in time possible, which is why this is a

thank you.

Thank you all of those who worked, strained, cried, marched, and held their ground against violence to prevent the justice that you pursued.

Thank all of you for refusing to stop, refusing to move until justice was served.

Thank you for allowing myself and so many others to have the opportunities we do.

We will not forget you because to do that would be forgetting a part of who we are.

Thank you, Dr. King, Malcolm X, Rosa Parks, Ruby Bridges, the

countless masses of people who fought for what was right so that we could get to where we are today.

My thanks have never been more sincere or heartfelt.

Thank you.

“And He’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over. And I’ve seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you.

But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the promised land!” –MLK “I Have Been to the Mountaintop” Nicole Robinson may be reached at nrobinson@ut.edu.

The Minaret is looking for

• Writers • Photographers • Artists • Cartoonists • Copy Editors

Email us at

ut.minaret@ gmail.com

12

Commentary

The Minaret | January 23, 2009

American “Idle” Warbles Its Way To American Couches The reality television phenomenon provides escape, but at what price?

By Josh Kratovil Copy Editor

Image by speedy2 / sxc.hu

Over-Caffeinated College Students Survive Work And School Buzz To Buzz

By Alyssa Lum Columnist

Walk past Einstein’s or Jazzman’s and the distinct aroma of coffee wafts to your nose.

Whether black or loaded, coffee and other caffeinated products have become a necessity for students in college.

Our campus is no different, helping to support the findings of a recent poll claiming Tampa to be the most caffeinated city in the United States.

For those of us who let the alarm go off three or four times before sliding out of bed in the morning, our bodies ache for an eight-hour slumber.

Without a cup of tea or coffee there would be no hope for the rest of the day.

Caffeine has become a staple in many of our diets because of the stimulating affects it has on our nervous systems.

Coffee, tea, energy drinks, sodas, chocolate and caffeine pills serve to boost our energy throughout the day.

Students develop a caffeine dependency on the belief that it

will give energy boosts without requiring a lifestyle change.

In fact, it’s easy to see why many students have a hard time not taking a cup of coffee to class just to stay awake, even when the affect is temporary and more caffeine will have to be taken in a few hours.

College students’ cravings for caffeine are encouraged by its availability. Every dining area serves caffeinated drinks and there are vending machines in most classroom and dorm buildings.

There are also close to 30 locations where students can satisfy a caffeine fix within walking distance of campus.

Starbucks and other coffee houses are open late to accommodate study habits. Walgreens and other stores sell liters of soda at cheap prices. The availability of caffeine makes it hard to turn away from.

At one point and time throughout every student’s college career they use caffeine to get through all-nighters and exams.

In this way, I’m not sure if caffeine use on our campus has anything to do with Tampa being named the most caffeinated city.

Caffeine and college seem to

Check out the Blogs and Podcasts on theminaretonline. com!

The Minaret is looking for

• Writers • Photographers • Artists • Cartoonists • Copy Editors

• Within the Minaret • Overtime: A Sports Blog • Jon Howard’s Did That Just Happen?

be synonymous wherever you go.

Students depend on chocolate for comfort, coffee and tea to wake up in the morning, energy drinks and soda for quick doses of sugar to make it through multiple classes, work, papers and exams in one day.

Without it, what would happen to us? Even more students would sleep in class (minus the ones that already do) and the rest would be a grumpy mess.

Two-hour classes would become unbearable and exams would be impossible.

Caffeine has turned out to be the savior for attention spans and finding the edge when maximum production is necessary. All of us have turned to it for guidance and wisdom before our brains malfunction.

Caffeine has become an integral part of our lives, telling us our bodies aren’t as young as they used to be and sadly, getting up for cartoons is no longer possible.

Caffeine, then, is the only way to cope.

Alyssa Lum may be reached at alum@ut.edu.

You know, I used to think a lot of things on TV were ridiculous and asinine.

I still do.

Yet I’m starting to understand something about programming – every time we tune in and watch a show, it’s like we’re casting a vote saying that we approve of whatever we’re watching. My revelation came as I sat and watched the beginning of the eighth season of “American Idol.”

Eight seasons! Holy crap!

What were we thinking?

But as I watched contestant after contestant humiliate them self, honestly believing they had a shot at the title, it became clear that whatever I may think about the intelligence level of the show, America needs BS like this.

We need it because we have to see that others out there are struggling, failing or just plain worse at singing Michael Jackson classics than we might be. And I think that’s what the real draw of the show is: the crash and burn factor.

We, as a country, love to see that someone has it worse than us, and it’s no surprise. With the country going to hell in a hand basket, people need things to turn their attention away from the issues that really matter, from their own personal woes.

Would you rather think about your defaulted mortgage, your failing business or the woman who throws a tantrum because she wasn’t chosen, screaming (and I mean SCREAMING) “NOOOOOOOOO!!” and writhing about on the ground like she’s being skewered on national television (I guarantee you this one is up on YouTube).

We’re a country full of procrastinators and people who prefer to be distracted from reality.

That’s the only way to possibly validate the existence of not only “American Idol.”

It’s the only explanation as to why movie theaters continue to sell out weekend after weekend despite an economic meltdown.

People always want to escape their lives, but now people want to escape the world itself.

Don’t get me wrong – I don’t think people should spend every day mired in their own existence.

People need a break and an escape; it’s natural and healthy.

And in a world where we’re bombarded constantly by media, it’s easy to see how we can get wrapped up in the trials and tribulations of others.

(I have to admit I’m partial to watching “Big Brother After Dark” and seeing all the seedy activities of the house guests long after the majority of the national audience stops watching).

But we can’t function as intelligent people if we continue to substitute our own lives with the lives of others.

We even let ourselves get wrapped up in our friends’ (or relatives’ or significant others’ or, in some cases, ex’s) lives via Facebook and Myspace, constantly updating each other about what we’re doing and why it matters, hungry for comments and input.

Today, more than ever, we need to be aware of ourselves, our own situations, so that we might better master and overcome them, or at the very least cope.

Let entertainment do its job and entertain you.

Don’t let it subvert your very existence.

Oh, and a parting thought.

Simon Cowell, it’s funny when you’re a douchebag and embarrass and harass the contestants in person.

Please, don’t change a bit.

Josh Kratovil may be reached at jkratovil@ut.edu.

Email us today at ut.minaret@ gmail.com Join Us! Tuesdays, Vaughn 211 Image by lt_vn89 / flickr.com

The Minaret | January 23, 2009

13

Advertisement ./

7

,%

!3 ).

4>JM>eP fOPQ >KA LKIV

'

L U X U RY H I G H - R I S E A PA R T M E N T S

Element is the best of all worlds. Luxury apartments built to standards usually reserved for high-rise condominiums. You’ll enjoy a resort-style pool and amenity deck, with exceptional city views. Appointments like 10-foot ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, premium imported granite, and stainless steel appliances. And Element offers it all in a premier and bustling Downtown location. It’s more freedom. Less commitment. And all the luxury you could want.

,B>PFKD #BKQBO .LT /MBK 507 N FRANKLIN ST (MON - SAT: 10 - 6 SUN: 12 - 5) 813 637 2490

elementofyou.com -LSB )K *>KR>OV Information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted. Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. See leasing associate for more information. Illustration is artist’s impression. Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating representations of the landlord. For correct representations, make reference to the terms and conditions of the written lease agreement.

14

Sports

The Minaret | January 23, 2009

Bloggers Choose Sides Sending Super Bowl Talks into

By Sam Gerb Sports Blogger

I am tired of hearing about how this year’s Super Bowl is not going to be an enjoyable game to watch. I think this game will be surprisingly exciting and much better than everyone’s expectations.

The reason why this game will have fans’ hearts pounding so fast is because of one team, the Arizona Cardinals.

This is a team that has been doubted all year and that some believed didn’t deserve a playoff spot with their weak 9-7 regular season recorded and their sputtering performance down the stretch.

Well the Cardinals have proved all the naysayers wrong with three eye-opening wins in this year’s playoffs.

They beat this year’s feel good Atlanta Falcons in the Wild Card game, conquered the Carolina Panthers in a blowout on the road where no team had won during the regular season and won in an offensive shoot out against the Philadelphia Eagles to advance to their first ever Super Bowl.

The Cardinals were given little hope to win in any of these games and have “shocked the world” so far.

But just because I feel the Cardinals are going to win doesn’t mean I can simply disregard the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers are a very impressive team, mainly based off of their defense. The Steelers’ defense was ranked No. 1 in the regular season and has proved to be the same in the playoffs. Ben Roethlisberger is a better-thanaverage solid quarterback who is not so much of a big throw kind of quarterback, but more of the guy who gets his team every big conversion on third down.

His stats might not be mindboggling like Drew Brees’ or Peyton Manning’s, but he makes big plays when he needs to, and does not make too many careless errors under pressure.

I think that the X-factor in the Super Bowl will be the Arizona Cardinals’ defense.

Yes, I did say the Arizona Cardinals’ defense.

During the regular season they were ranked No. 19 in the league, which is nothing special at all, but over the last 3 games they look more like top five.

They have been putting pressure on quarterbacks and forcing turnovers left and right. I think if they are able to get in the face of Roethlisberger, they can mess up his accuracy just enough for their speedy secondary to take advantage.

This will be a formidable task

The official

considering Roethlisberger has one of the best pocket presences in the league, and when he scrambles he can, make plays not only with his arm, but with his feet.

The Cardinals will ultimately win this game because of their, so-far, unstoppable offense.

Quarterback Kurt Warner looks like he still plays on the greatest show on turf and has the Cardinals prepared for the challenge of winning one more battle ahead.

A f t e r watching Larry Fitzgerald in the last three playoffs games, I would like to declare him the best and most exciting wide receiver to watch in all of football.

He drops nothing, runs perfect routes, knocks down defensive players and so much more. The excitement he brought to the NFC championship game was simply unmatched as he jumped higher than anyone else on the field to grab the football out of the air.

Don’t forget about wide receivers Anquan Boldin and Steve Breaston, as well as the revitalized running game of Edgerrin James and rookie Tim Hightower.

If the Cardinals stick to their game plan that they have had so far throughout these playoffs, then I see no reason why they won’t be crowned Super Bowl XLIII champions.

Sam Gerb can be reached at sgerb@ut.edu.

By Bobby Winsler Sports Blogger

I don’t like the Pittsburgh Steelers. I’m a Titans fan. So while most people think of how old Kurt Warner is when they hear announcers recall this is his first Super Bowl in nine years, I think back to that day when Warner (then with St. Louis) defeated Tennessee by a yard and a half.

That being established, I have grabbed my Terrible Towel and started becoming an obnoxious fan with an even more loathsome accent to anyone wearing red.

The Steelers will take this year’s biggest game simply because they will win the big hair battle.

Larry Fitzgerald is good.

Really good. Teams have failed thus far because they’ve not been able to keep track of him despite his flowing dreads, largely because tricky Arizona slight-of-hand that always results in a touchdown to number 11.

Enter a black and gold jersey with a white 43 stamped across both sides.

Pittsburgh’s free safety Troy Polamalu is a game changer, as the Chargers’ found out and the Ravens’ still learned the hard way.

Polamalu’s curly wave of jet black hair feathers in layers as he swarms the field. Though Fitzgerald wins the size and

vertical leap competition, the Cardinals’ wide receiver has yet to take a big hit like the one this tiny defensive back dishes weekly.

Big Ben Rothlisberger is on the bottom of my list of favorite quarterbacks in the league.

He is a blessed natural athlete cursed with extremely mediocre talent who won the support of sports analysts after losing the fight with a car on his motorcycle.

But one thing that accident did prove is that he’s tough, not just physically but mentally.

Warner has the experience but Rothlisberger has the composure.

And the youth.

There’s an old NFL adage, “defense wins championships.”

It’s true, the Cardinals have been playing like a top five team.

But there’s a reason the Steelers have been playing like the best team, because they are the best team, and they’ve proved that through the regular season and into postseason.

Warner is good at releasing the ball before the blitz arrives and with Polamalu double covering Fitzgerald, Probowl receiver Anquan Boldin should be matched man-to-man. But Boldin isn’t happy with the way the offense is called (give the ball to Fitzgerald) and playing on a hamstring injury, it’s unlikely he’ll be much of a factor.

I don’t like the Steelers but, this year, they are champions.

Bobby Winsler can be reached at minaret.sports@gmail.com.

taping of the 11th Annual

COLLEGE FOOTBALL ALL-STAR CHALLENGE

MONDAY Jan. 26 T H

1:00pm Pepin Stadium

FREE ADMISSION

The Minaret | January 23, 2009

15

Sports

Women’s Basketball Player Goes One-on-One with The Minaret

By Shelby Kuni Sports Writer

Kym Taylor is a fourth year senior who has started in every game this year, averaging 8.9 points.

What’s on your ipod?

Mario, Beyonce (her new CD is amazing), Lil’ Wayne and T.I. If you could choose anybody on your team to do your homework who would it be?

Definitely has to be Hailee Sullivan.

When you’re not playing basketball, you’re ______.

Sleeping…or shopping…or eating at Panera.

Any pre game rituals?

Praying, listening to music and just getting hyped with my teammates What’s your dream job?

CEO of a major Fortune 500 company…woman empowerment!

Who is the best singer on the team?

Lauren Mason. That girl can sing Bon Jovi any day of the week!

Who would win a fight between women’s basketball and softball?

I don’t know…we’ve got some big girls and our freshmen

are pretty feisty so I’d have to give it to us.

How has the beginning of your season gone?

This is the best start in a long time for UT basketball.

It was a little shaky at first because we were still trying to find our chemistry and rotation, but once we started winning and realizing how to work our system we began winning a lot.

We have such a young team, only three seniors, but our motto this year is “New Team New Year!” and we are very proud of that.

What were/are your expectations of the rest of the season?

To be regular season champs and SSC conference champs (we let Nova take it away from us last year).

If we can do those two things that would be really big for us since we’re such a young team… then I’d know we could get far in the NCAA’s.

How is it taking Sheena Walton’s role on the team?

When I came back for this season I knew I had to step it up. It was really important to Coach (Jessee) that I find my own identity.

He kept saying to me: “I don’t want you to be Sheena…I want

you to be Kym Taylor, and I want you to play your game.”

What’s been your most memorable victory as a Spartan thus far this season?

Definitely beating Drury – they were number three in the nation when we played them.

The focus before that game was so incredible; we were ready to go. We could tell we were going to win, and after that game is when we became a threat to everyone else.

How did you get your start in basketball and who inspired you to play at the level you’re at today?

I was a dancer when I was really young, but then I became taller and taller I just kinda figured out that I was pretty good at basketball.

Then when it got more competitive in middle school is when I realized that this was what I wanted to do.

My dad and my brother were definitely my inspirations; they built my confidence to push me through to the college level.

What’s something you’ve learned from your teammates?

Just to have fun. I know being a senior you have to stay composed and be a good leader, but really everyone has just taught me to

Photo by Abby Sanford

have fun, especially the young players...they definitely bring the fun back in the game for us all.

What’s something you’ve learned from your coach?

Accountability is the biggest

thing. He’s also taught me that if you work hard, good things will happen, and that if you commit to something, you will be successful, which are all things I can use after my basketball career is over.

Martinez Gym Hosts Local NFL Linebacker’s Charity Fundraiser

By Delaney Spoerl Sports Writer

The citizens of Tampa know that the Super Bowl will be upon us within a matter of weeks.

That means events upon events will occur all over the Tampa Bay area. But what about the college campus?

One would think that a university would be the perfect place for some publicity and a good turn out, right?

That is exactly why the Checkers Cato June Celebrity Basketball Game will be held at the Bob Martinez Sports Center on January 30 from 6-9 p.m.

Cato June, a linebacker with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, will be hosting the charity basketball game.

Proceeds benefit inner city and disadvantaged children in the Washington D.C. and Tampa Bay area. The game begins at 6 p.m. with scheduled guest

Spartans Face Challenging Road Ahead From

“Hoops”

Continued From BaCk Page Schmidt, referring to a missed shot that ultimately led to the overtime loss against the Tars.

The men returned home and bounced back to beat Saint Leo 70-52. Three Spartans scored in double figures to lead the team over the Lions. Rashad Callaway

had 23 points, Anthony LaBruno had 18, and Fred Woods added 10.

The Spartans held on once more at home on Jan. 17 against Barry, winning 70-61 and helping them to a record of 9-5 (3-2 SSC).

At just over Callaway the halfway

mark in the regular season, UT still has plenty of challenges to face in the future.

They continue to get better every day and push towards excellence, but that is no easy task when facing the teams at this level, Schmidt explained.

“You have to really be on your toes every night,” he said.

Olivia Glynn can be reached at oglynn@ut.edu.

appearances by Derrick Brooks, Simeon Rice, Steve Slaton, Darren McFadden, Reggie Wayne, Marques Colston, Lamar Woodley, Kevin Hart, Laramie “Doc” Shaw, Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Tocarra Jones.

Rohan Sutherland, the managing partner at Genesis Corporations, who is promoting the event, said they chose UT for its excellent facilities manager, Jerome Fulton.

“In talking to other venues, [Fulton] was the nicest to work with,” he said. “I believe the event will be a great success. We like to produce events like this because of the interaction fans get with the NFL players and celebrities.”

Ticket prices are $10 for children, $20 for adults and $15 for UT students with their Spartan card.

Those attending the game can also expect prizes and giveaways, autograph signings, a free meal courtesy of Checkers Drivein Restaurant, and an appearance by the U.S. Marines as they present the colors of the United States.

One lucky fan will also have the chance to win a new car at the halftime show along with an amazing cyclist performance and a samurai showman.

Winter Break Scoreboard 12/12 vs. Emmanuel 90-76 W 12/14 vs. Benedict 66-61 L 12/16 at Valdosta State 80-79 L 12/18 at West Florida 62-57 W 1/3 vs. Nova Southeastern 65-61 L 1/7 at Eckerd 62-61 W 1/10 at Rollins 70-64 L 1/14 vs. Saint Leo 70-52 W 1/17 vs. Barry 70-61 W Conference games in bold

3

Basketball Doesn’t Hibernate this Winter

‘n t u O

By Kyle Bennett Sports Writer

Alumnus Coach Dies Former UT All-American running back Don Herndon died on Jan 10 of an apparent heart attack at the age of 72.

Herndon played briefly in the American Football League with the New York Titans, later the New York Jets, where he caught one touchdown pass in 1960.

Herndon was the Haines City football coach from 1969-1981 and led them to the class 3A state title in 1973.

Starting in Second Baseball: The UT baseball team is currently ranked second in the Division II Preseason Poll. Defending Division II Champion Mount Olive holds the preseason spot for number one.

Sunshine State Conference rivals Florida Southern is ranked No. 16 in the poll

by Collegiate Baseball Newspaper.

Swimming Stays Steady Winter break provided some mixed results for the swim teams as they both gained valuable wins but were also on the losing side of things.

Two Spartans, Jessie Bardin and Chris O’Linger recieved National Swimmerof-the-week honors for the week of Dec 8-14.

The annual Tampa Relay, held on Jan 3, saw strong performances from both squads who proved to be victorious in 16 of 20 races.

Both teams notched a win against Saint Leo and Rollins in their last hone meet of the season.

Photo by Abby Sanford

The Tampa Spartans Women’s basketball team spent their winter break going 4-2, finishing the six game stretch with a huge 6445 home victory against the 13th ranked Barry Buccaneers.

“After losing two conference games we came back and got a big win at home over Barry,” said head coach Tom Jessee. “The conference is really tough this year; no one is winning on the road.”

The Spartans have a very young team and need to learn how to play on the road.

“Only two teams have won conference games on the road, to come out 4-2, I feel was a big plus,” Jesse explained. The 4-2 winter break puts the Spartans

game at home this year. Following the loss to Eckerd, the Spartans dropped a second straight game at #12 Rollins.

Playing with a national rank puts a huge target on the back of the Spartans.

“As a young team we have to learn to play with targets on our backs,” said Jesse.

Now, having a target on their backs, the women will have to rely on some leaders to step up and take control of the team.

“Seniors, Kym Taylor and Hailee Sullivan have really stepped their game up,” said Jesse. “We hope we can lean on them to help convince some of the youth how to prepare for road games.”

Kyle Bennett can be reached at kbennett@ut.edu

Men’s Program Keeps the Ball Rolling

By Olivia Glynn Asst. Sports Editor

The men’s basketball team spent plenty of time over winter break on the court, playing nine regular season games and coming away with five wins.

Of the five wins, three were valuable conference victories against Eckerd, Saint Leo and Barry.

“As is, we’re struggling a little bit,” admitted coach Richard Schmidt. “I don’t think we’ve played up to our ability yet,

hopefully we can keep getting better. That’s the goal, to be the best you can be at the end of the season, not at the beginning.”

The Spartans faced a tough schedule with five in-conference games, but three wins were not enough for the team to be satisfied.

“The league is very strong, there’s a lot of good teams in the league and even the teams like Barry that have lost a lot of games are very good,” explained Schmidt.

One of the difficult losses for

the Spartans came in Winter Park against Rollins. Tampa was down by 12 at the end of the first half but came out with a charge after the intermission, scoring in the second half and pushing the game into overtime.

Unfortunately, the spark in the second half could not lift the Spartans to a victory, and Rollins held on to win 70-64.

“We had the last shot to win it, if we make that shot, things look pretty good for us right now,” said See

“Hoops” [15] Photo by Abby Sanford

MLS Team Drafts Former UT Soccer Player in First Round

By Shelby Kuni Sports Writer

Last Thursday University of Tampa alumnus Ryan Maxwell was drafted by the New England Revolution in the first round of the Major League Soccer (MLS) SuperDraft held in St. Louis, Missouri.

“I was so nervous that I couldn’t even watch the TV,”

said the Tampa soccer alum as he anxiously awaited his fate while watching MLS Draft with a handful of friends in Tampa.

“When it came time I had to leave the room to watch it by myself because I was just too nervous.”

As soon as he heard that he had been drafted as the 15th overall pick, the last in the first round, there was only one thing

Photo by Kara Wall

M. Basketball Jan. 24, 4 p.m. at Florida Tech

record at 12-3 (3-2 SSC) and also gives them a number 19 national rank.

During the break the Spartans’ played home games that felt more like exhibition games. The stands were empty.

“I look forward to getting some of the student body back into the stands,” said Jesse.

The first of the Spartans two losses came at Eckerd on January 7. The loss snapped a nine game winning streak.

“The loss didn’t surprise me,” said Jesse. “Nothing is a surprise, especially a road conference game.”

This was a conference loss, as UT was ranked number 19 in the nation. Proving Jesse’s statement correct; Eckerd has not lost a

>>> The Spartans look to add another vital conference win when they take on the Panthers in the first of two meetings this season.

W. Basketball Jan. 24, 2 p.m. at Florida Tech

>>> The women travel to Melbourne for a conference battle against a solid Florida Tech squad.

for him to do.

“As soon as I found out I got drafted, I called my mother back home (in Jamaica),” Maxwell said. “I credit all of my soccer accomplishments thus far to her.

She has always believed I could be a professional (soccer) player, so this is for her,” Maxwell said.

Although quick to praise his mother for his accomplishments, Maxwell was very insistent in recognizing and thanking his coaches at UT. “But I also have to give credit and much thanks to my coaches and trainers that I have worked with both here at UT and back home,” said Maxwell.

“The coaches at UT have taught me to be both a better player and person…they were patient with me and always believed in me.”

The Revolution has always

had a reputation of being one of the best clubs in the MLS, and Maxwell is eager to continue that legacy next year.

Last year the Revolution won the SuperLiga tournament in a penalty kick shootout against MLS rival Houston Dynamo.

“New England has always been a fantastic soccer team and I’m happy to be drafted by them,” Maxwell said.

“My expectations are to do well; I hope to create and score goals and do anything that will help my new team in every way possible.”

Maxwell is in the process of talking with his mother and Tampa coaches, figuring out what his next move will be. “Right now I’m just enjoying the moment.

We’ll figure everything else out later,” Maxwell said.

Shelby Kuni can be contacted at skuni@ut.edu

Swimming Jan. 24, 11 a.m. at Indian River CC

>>> The men and women hope to continue their success as they compete in Fort Pierce over the weekend.

Who will win the Superbowl? [14]