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Student Recounts Tsunami Experience

By NICOLE ROBINSON News Reporter

Happy Beginnings Emiri Hashimoto, a sophomore communications major at the University of Tampa, sat in her room with the sunlight gently reflecting off the pink floral prints that cover her sheets and clothes.

Here, it is peaceful. Just like she described the beginning of her spring break visit with her family in Nagano, Japan before disaster struck.

She described Nagano as a downtown metropolitan area that brought her happiness and warm feelings.

See Return, Page 3

“There’s already enough people getting drunk and going crazy. Imagine that drunk, crazy person controlling a gun!”

- Sami Al Qatari, UT freshman

To read more on the concealed-carry debate, see page 2

Retiring Dean Reflects on 17 Years as ‘Voice of Students’

By JEFFREY PALMER News Reporter

Robert Ruday, dean of students at the University of Tampa since 1994, is planning to pass the torch to a successor at the end of the semester. He described the role of the office he has held for the past 17 years as a mix of coordinating non-academic services on campus and building stable bridges of understanding between UT and the students themselves.

In Ruday’s words, more than anything else, “The dean is the voice of the students.”

Ruday expressed particular pride in his contributions to the betterment of the resident student experience at the university.

Specifically, he commented on the building of new and improved residence halls and the creation of McNiff Fitness Center.

“We transformed what was almost an empty building into a fitness facility that would be hard to beat,” said Ruday.

The retiring dean also commented on the enlargement and improved location of certain offices vital to providing students with aid.

NEWS + FEATURES 4 Law May Prohibit Tenureship for Fla. Educators 5 Buckhorn Elected Mayor of Tampa 6 A Bahamian Spring Break

In Ruday’s time at UT, offices such as the Academic Center for Excellence (ACE) and career and disability services were more fully integrated into the academic center of the university. Programs related to international service learning, such as alternative spring breaks and summer trips abroad, were also greatly enhanced during his tenure.

Although he was unable to pick one favorite from his many fond memories of UT, Ruday stated that some of his more gratifying experiences as dean involved his frequent interactions with student government.

“I truly enjoyed working with and helping to guide student government and helping individual officers to grow,” he said.

Despite the gratification derived from his office, Ruday said that his 17 years at UT were not without some difficulties.

“The most difficult times are always when a student passes,” Ruday reflected. “Working with family and friends to plan a memorial service and helping everyone through their time of grieving.”

Ruday hopes that his successor will do everything possible to help strengthen and expand the student affairs infrastructure so students will always have a means of addressing their concerns and desires. He expressed his unwavering belief in the unique character of UT’s student community and its potential to achieve greatness under proper direction.

“UT students are diverse, accepting of differences and tolerant of actions, and hungry to serve others,” he said. “They are eager to practice and learn leadership skills.”

After the semester, Ruday intends to board a Disney cruise with his wife to Alaska and then spend the summer reconnecting with his children and grandchildren.

He said he would always be happy to lend his experience to the betterment of the university and the experience of its students.

“I plan to keep in contact with the University of Tampa and offer my services through transitory times in areas I have been responsible for in Samantha Battersby/The Minaret the past,” said Ruday.

Jeffrey Palmer can be reached Dean of Students, Robert Ruday, was known by faculty and students for at jeffrey.palmer@spartans.ut.edu. his charisma and love for Dr. Seuss.

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT 9 Students Go Noir at Blackbox Film Fest 13 ‘Give the Drummer Same’ Respect: Travis Barker’s Surprising LP

COMMENTARY

12 Is Government Austerity Morally Unacceptable?

15 Sex Toy Demonstration Shakes Education Community

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MINARET

2 MARCH 24 2011 | THE MINARET

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alex Vera

avera813@gmail.com

Mike Trobiano

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NEWS + FEATURES

Cara Fetzer, Senior Editor Joshua Napier, Asst. Editor minaret.news@gmail.com

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

Mandy Erfourth, Senior Editor Micheal Angelo Rumore, Asst. Editor minaret.arts@gmail.com

COMMENTARY

Philippa Hatendi, Senior Editor John Jacobs, Asst. Editor minaret.commentary@gmail.com

SPORTS

Daniel Feingold, Senior Editor Kyle Bennett, Asst. Editor

ONLINE

Yara Abbas

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Abby Sanford, Head Photographer minaret.photog@gmail.com

ADVERTISING

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ADVISER

Daniel Reimold, Ph.D. dreimold@ut.edu

COPY EDITORS

Laura Theobald, Head Copy Editor Moriah Parrish, Asst. Copy Editor David Saucedo, Asst. Copy Editor Robin Hudson, Asst. Copy Editor

REPORTERS

Jeffrey Palmer Channing Hailey Yasaman Sherbaf Shivani Kanji

STAFF WRITERS

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COLUMNISTS

Richard Solomon Camilla Chebet Nicole Robinson Hannah Webster Dominique C. Barchus Amanda Sieradzki

CREATIVE/DESIGN Tara Huff, Layout

MORE INFORMATION THE MINARET is a weekly student-run publication at the University of Tampa.

Letters to the Editor may be sent to editor@theminaretonline.com.

To reach THE MINARET call 813.257.3636.

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By COLLEEN CRAWFORD Journalism I

Lawmakers in roughly a dozen states are currently debating legislation that would give college students and professors the right to carry guns in the classroom and around campus.

According to The Associated Press, more than half the members of the Texas House have signed on as co-authors of a measure directing universities to allow concealed handguns. Much similar to the bill that arose in 2009, the final decision will be left up to the University and the discretion of the staff.

Concealed-weapons opponent, Neta Trahar stated, “Arming everyone is not the solution—not even in Texas.”

Texas is not the only state considering this legislation. The Los Angeles Times reports that officials in Arizona, Georgia, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Florida are considering similar legislations of their own.

The bills seem to be in response to the Virginia Tech, Northern Illinois University and the University of Texas shootings that occurred during the last five years.

A survey of roughly 1,700 students at Sam Houston State University and Washington University revealed almost a quarter of students were “not comfortable at all” with the idea of guns on their campuses.

Ten percent of Texas students were comfortable with the idea, while only 8 percent of the Washington students felt the same.

At the University of Tampa, 50 students were asked whether or not they would

be comfortable attending a school that allowed students to bear arms. Of the group, only five of the students, all male, were for firearms on campus. Out of a group of 10 professors, only one proclaimed to be “absolutely for” the legislation.

Apart from the opinions of those who spend a lot of time on campus (students, faculty and staff) the opinion of the public was taken into account as well. When 10 people were approached randomly on a

guards who are armed on a daily basis.

UT sophomore Jessica Bullock explained that she would feel, “in great danger” if her peers and professors had guns on campus. She said she would expect something “fatal to occur” as a result of any related legislation allowing weapons.

By contrast, Jasmin Jackson, a freshman at the University of North Alabama, said, “I would feel safer if I could carry a weapon around.”

UT sophomore Erin Shields has been living on campus for the past two years.

She said that during her time in school she has seen some unpredictable and erratic behavior on campus.

Standing against the right to bear arms, she said she “would have major concerns [over] the combination of drugs, alcohol and weapons.”

Shields said she feels as though certain students would be “unwilling to have roommates who were planning on using and storing firearms in the dorm building.”

Nationally-known author John Lott rhetorically asked if people would put up a sign in front of their houses reading, “This Is a Gun-Free Zone.” He said that it would make no sense to post such a sign because it would be informing criminals of the lack of protection inside the house.

“Yet we put signs like that up at our schools and universities,” he said.

“There’s a tremendous advantage to having concealed-carry laws, because the shooter doesn’t know who has a weapon.”

Corresponding to the thoughts of Lott, UT freshman Jon Wilkinson stated, “Students are being mugged because unlike everyone else in Tampa, we don’t carry protection. So, to everyone packing heat, we are left as targets.”

“Students are being mugged because unlike everyone else in Tampa, we don’t carry protection. So, to everyone packing heat, we are left as targets.”

- Jon Wilkinson, UT freshman

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Should UT’s Campus Remain a ‘Gun-Free Zone’?

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ASSISTANT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

NEWS + FEATURES

street in downtown Tampa, only two felt that the right of weaponry was a good idea.

Safety and security are major parts of our everyday lives. We also see security

Spartans Debate Gun Rights “I definitely think that gun control on this campus should be like everywhere else; you have to have your license, you have to carry your permit whenever you carry your gun. You should definitely have clearance from the R.A.’s, saying “hey I have a gun in my room just in case anyone comes through my window.” But I just don’t know why people need guns on campus after Virginia Tech.”

- Daniel Munoz, junior, film and media arts

“I wouldn’t want a gun, but I would get one if they were allowed on campus.”

- Mike Sapraicone, junior, business

“It’s a terrible, terrible idea. I agree with having a weapon in your home for protection, but as far as on campus, with kids drunk beyond belief--can’t event tell you their name. I wouldn’t give them a pencil.”

- Alex Montaya, freshman, undecided

“Hell No! People are crazy these days.

I wouldn’t trust people in my residence hall with guns.”

- Brittney Williams, sophomore, international and cultural studies

“I wouldn’t feel scared with anyone on campus. I don’t think it would change my mind, it is a little strange, but I don’t know if it would change feeling safe. Campus is safe enough, and they wouldn’t advertise that guns were allowed on campus. You just have to be street smart. “ - Breanna Nelson, junior, accounting

“We definitely need them for protection.”

- Marco Varrino, junior, undecided “I don’t think anyone on this campus should have a gun. An unnecessary death would result from it.”

- Kyle Tucke, sophomore, business

“You wouldn’t know if a kid had a gun now, unless he was flashing it around. I have a concealed/carry permit. I could bring my gun to campus right now. It’s an open campus. They don’t have [gun] checks.”

- Tom Sawicki, junior, criminology “No guns. No guns period. The only reason you should have a gun is for self

protection and the university is obligated to keep it’s students safe. If not, they are not doing their job.”

- David Stokes Piercy, media production coordinator, Department of Communication “I’d be on the edge all the time and if they try to pull a gun on me, I would tell them they can have the whole DQ. This overpriced food could make students angry.”

- Aquisha Smith, Dairy Queen staff member

Poll: Do you think professors should be allowed to carry guns on campus?

Vote online now on The Crescent at minaretblog.com.

NEWS + FEATURES

THE MINARET | MARCH 24 2011

3

Student: ‘I Thought I Was Getting Vertigo’ When Quake Started From Front, Return It is the place she grew up.

Nagano is inland and, while it didn’t see the effects of the tsunami directly, frightening earthquakes still shook the city on March 11 and 12.

Hashimoto described her worries for her friends and family during the earthquake and now. She also explained her fear when the 6.2 earthquake, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, hit, while she was driving in a car with her mother.

While we spoke, I could not help but notice her phone chiming away every few minutes.

I had to ask what the calls were about.

She told me, “They’re notifications of aftershocks in my town,” She hesitated to read, “This one says another 2.2 aftershock is happening … now.”

Vertigo The Minaret: When did you go home?

Emiri Hashimoto: I went home on March 10. I was with my family in Naples and we went to Japan for a few days.

M: What were you feeling when the earthquake started?

EH: The first one, I was in the car with my mom driving. We were driving and then we stopped at the traffic light.

I thought I was getting vertigo, so I told my mom that I felt weird, something was wrong.

We looked out the door and saw that all of the signs of the stores were going crazy, so we realized what was going on.

The rest of my town just went back to what they were doing.

We did not know a tsunami was going on.

M: When you first got news of the tsunami, what were your initial feelings?

Were you worried for the lives of family and friends?

EH: I have a friend who is at Misawa Army Base where the tsunami hit and I was worried for him.

I tried to contact him on Facebook and a week later I was able to get a hold of him.

He said he was scared.

He told me he was really busy helping people, evacuating them from the tsunami area.

M: When you saw the images of the destruction, did you feel the need to do something, or to cry, or were you shocked?

EH: When I went home and turned on the TV and saw all the damage, it was just hard to believe.

I didn’t have any words. I couldn’t think anything.

All I can do is donate money, food, water for people who lost their houses.

They still don’t have electricity or water.

They’ve lived in a gym for two weeks.

Getting Out of Japan M: Can you tell me about trying to leave?

EH: I’m the only one who left. All the transportation was stopped.

Even though my town and my area was totally okay, I had no way to get back to the airport.

They shut down transportation just in case something happened.

M: When you were leaving Japan and leaving your family, what went through your mind?

EH: I wasn’t sad leaving, but I was really worried about my family. Not only

From the Mar. 14-20 reports.

Party Crashers At 1:45 p.m. on Mar. 14, security reported that individuals were drinking alcohol at UT’s pool. The subjects were non students and were trespassed from campus.

Strike Two At around 1:55 a.m. on Mar. 18, security responded to the 6th floor of Stadium Center for a possible drug violation.

Students were referred to judicial.

Strike One On Mar. 16, security received a call from the Area Coordinator on duty for possible alcohol violations on the 6th floor of Stadium Center. The students were referred to judicial.

Seriously...Fire Extinguisher?

Around 2:17 a.m. on Mar. 19, a non student was arrested for felony theft of a fire extinguisher and criminal mischief for damages to UT property.

Suck It Up! At 1:30 p.m. on Mar. 17, students reported that their vacuum cleaner was missing from their room on the 6th floor of Austin Hall.

Stranger Danger Around 1 a.m. on Mar. 18, security responded to a call about an unknown person running through a students dorm room.

In the Ghetto On Mar. 19, security responded to the 1st floor of McKay Hall for a report made of an odor of marijuana.

Irony at its Finest Around 4:20 a.m. on Mar. 20, three students were found in possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia in the Riverside Parking Lot. They were referred to judicial.

Reports Compiled by Cara Fetzer

Photo courtesy of Emiri Hashimoto

Emiri Hashimoto, UT sophomore communications major, visited her home in Japan over spring break, where she experienced the earthquake first-hand.

did we have an earthquake, but we had aftershocks everyday, radiation in the food and all these other things going on.

M: Do you think there is a need for UT Students to help with Japan?

EH: Yes, if they want to. I don’t know

what’s going to happen next. They’re trying to get new homes for those who lost them, but I’m just really concerned about safety right now.

Nicole Robinson can be reached at nrobinson@spartans.ut.edu.

This Week’s Student Government Meeting... * March 29 is the last day to get funding for school organizations.

Visit ut.edu/studentorgs for more info. * Also on March 29, a general assembly will take place in Reeves Theater at 7:00 p.m. for student government candidates to present their speeches. Voting will begin at 8:00 p.m. that evening on Blackboard and end at 12:00 p.m. on April 2. * On April 7, the winners of the election will be introduced at the Board of Trustees meeting and inducted at the Leadership Awards Night on April 12. * Registration for Fall 2011 begins next week.

Graduate, Post-Baccalaureate and Seniors: March 31 Juniors: April 1, 4, 5 Sophomores: April 6, 7, 8 First-Year Students: April 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 Have any questions or concerns? Contact Student Government at SG@ut.edu.

Student Government is your voice. Join us at our meeting every Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. in Reeves Theater. All students are welcome.

4 MARCH 24 2011 | THE MINARET

NEWS + FEATURES

Law May Prohibit Tenureship for Fla. Educators

By CHANNING HAILEY News Reporter

In the first piece of legislation Rick Scott will sign as governor, the law will be passed that no new hires in Florida’s public school system will receive tenure after July first of this year.

This loss of job security brings with it the potential for teachers to make more money based on students’ performances on standardized tests.

By 2014, all teachers in Florida will receive pay based on evaluation and merit.

The bill is one of many steps in a statewide initiative to hold teachers more accountable for their students’ success on standardized tests.

Included in these measures are allocations for rewards for schools that achieve high marks on student testing as well as sanctions for schools with high rates of failure.

Last year, Governor Charlie Christ vetoed a similar bill after teachers across the state voiced their disapproval.

As this new bill goes to Scott, opinions of education majors and professors at UT vary.

When it comes to doing away with tenure, freshman education major Kaylee Nonnemacher said that this is the one good point to the bill.

“Tenure guarantees teachers a job with a steady pay, even if they do nothing but sit at their desk[s] while students teach themselves out of a textbook every day,” said Nonnemacher.

“I absolutely believe we owe it to the

kids we’re teaching to be good teachers and tenure does nothing to put the focus on that.”

Education professor Pattie Johnston had a different take on tenure.

“I get the logic of wanting to be able to remove bad teachers easily.”

However, she said, “Tenure has been a huge attraction for teachers because, while they have to sacrifice pay, they are able to keep a secure job.”

Lauren McKeown, a first year education major, agreed with Johnston’s opinion on tenure.

She added, “Although tenure is a good

[

“If you have [fewer] people wanting to get into the field, you’re probably going to wind up with worse teachers anyway, because it’s creating a smaller pool of applicants,” Johnston explained.

Florida teachers are already in the bottom margins when it comes to salary, and upcoming budget cuts are projected to cut pay and benefits even more drastically.

This is a concern that Nonnemacher had. “There are areas in this country where garbage collectors make more in a yearly salary than teachers do. But what it all comes down to is that whether you’re in it for the pay or not, you need to be earning

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“There are areas in this country where garbage collectors make more in a yearly salary than teachers do. But what it all comes down to is that whether you’re in it for the pay or not, you need to be earning something to live at least somewhat comfortably.”

- Kaylee Nonnemacher, UT freshman

thing, school administrators need to be more observant and make sure the tenured teachers are working hard.”

Johnston’s biggest concern with the new bill is that the taking away of tenure might discourage students from majoring in education and deciding to become teachers.

She said this is because “They know they’ll end up with a job with relatively low pay and little security for a job that requires a degree.”

something to live at least somewhat comfortably.”

When it comes to paying teachers based on merit and standardized test scores, McKeown said, “Allocating funds based on these test scores may make teachers work harder to help improve their students’ grades, but the students are the ones who have to do better on the tests.”

In Florida, statewide standardized tests were created to show student achievement based on Florida’s education standards,

known as the Sunshine State Standards.

According to Johnston, using standardized test scores to determine teacher pay “extends beyond the intent of the original construction of the test.”

Johnston, whose Ph.D. is in measurement and research, sees a positive value in giving students standardized tests. She stated, though, that the purpose of these tests are to evaluate how well a student is doing in a subject and to show where students need improvement.

“These results are supposed to be used diagnostically for the students,” she said.

“When you have legislature saying it’s a good idea to take the results and use them to evaluate how well teachers are doing— that’s just crazy.”

Nonnemacher stated, “Yes, teachers do measure students, but there’s a clear difference between a teacher and a good teacher.

A teacher, as Scott is defining with this bill, does nothing but focus on drilling whatever information will get a top score on the state standardized test.”

Legislators are planning on the Republican-sponsored bill benefiting the majority of Florida students for the long run.

“I think it’s going to be really hard to predict what such a dramatic move is going to do,” said Johnston.

Educators and legislators across Florida are trying to predict just that as Rick Scott works out the specifics of the legislation.

Channing Hailey can be reached at channing.hailey@gmail.com.

Quick Tips to Spice Up Your Daily Exercise Routine

By CAROLYN HATCH News Reporter

Regular exercise is imperative for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and can easily be made an enjoyable part of the day with a few fun activities. Rather than thinking of it as one more daily task, put aside some time for physical activity that can be stress relieving and energy boosting.

Boxing is a great way to blow off some steam while burning extra calories, and dance classes are a surprisingly good workout, if you can really get your body moving.

If you don’t want to join a class, just turn on the music at home and dance like no one is watching!

Yoga is another great way to tone up and avoid weight gain. You learn to control virtually every muscle and joint of your body, while allowing your mind to relax.

Of course, swimming is also a great way to fit in some cardio while toning muscles, as it uses almost every major muscle group.

Swimming aerobics strengthens the heart and lungs, providing most of the benefits that running does without straining any connective tissue.

Only you can figure out what is the most effective and enjoyable form of exercise for yourself. When beginning a routine, it is important that you include cardio, muscle conditioning and flexibility exercises. Not only will you begin to look fit, but your self-esteem will naturally improve as well.

Exercise is a natural stress reliever, anti-depressant and mood booster because of its ability to increase serotonin levels and the endorphins that are released during activity. These endorphins can also sharpen brainpower, allowing the mind to concentrate on daily tasks.

With this said, what is stopping you from gaining some self-worth and much-

Edson Hong/flickr.com

Though exercise should become a habit, it should not become a bore. Keep things interesting by doing a different routine every day and confusing your muscle memory in order to really tone up.

needed energy on those “down days” in the dorm room?

Maybe you are just too lazy to crawl out of bed in the morning, or you just don’t know where to start. Well, pick up a fitness magazine or read online about being active to provide a little inspiration.

The first step is to set goals for yourself that focus on time and participation, rather than weight loss. Watching every pound will not keep you motivated, but instead lead to frustration if the goals are not met.

Award yourself in some way (not with food!) when exercise goals are met and recognize that added muscle does mean added weight.

It is much easier to stray from a schedule than to get on one, so consistency is key.

Making workouts habitual by planning

exercise as a part of your daily routine allows your body to adapt to the activity, causing you to feel weak and sluggish when a day is missed.

Though exercise should become a habit, it should not become a bore. Keep things interesting by doing a different routine every day and confusing your muscle memory in order to really tone up.

Another fun way to keep things interesting is to have a buddy who you can share tips with and who will help you stay motivated. Someone to chat with and push you that extra mile will make your time much more enjoyable and effective.

Listening to music and varying locations is a great way to spice things up. Soak up the natural beauty or enjoy people-watching in the local parks and neighborhoods. Be sure

to record your progress in a log, so that you can keep track of which routine works best for you. Looking back on how your goals are accomplished can be very motivating.

When you start off a routine, it is important to remember that slow and steady wins the race. Working yourself to a point of exhaustion in the first week will only discourage you in the future.

Start off with a light jog or an afternoon rollerblading on Bayshore, where you can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. If you prefer the gym, try intervals on the elliptical, Stairmaster and treadmill to mix things up a bit. It is crucial that you take at least one day a week off to allow your body to heal. Take hints if your body has had enough and needs a rest, you will be thankful in the long run.

Exercise does not mean you must plan to run a marathon. Simple things such as using the stairs rather than the elevator or parking farther away from your destination can make a surprising impact. For most, 15 minutes of cardio each day is sufficient and, if you cannot run, then a brisk walk for 20 minutes should be just fine.

Didn’t your mother always tell you to practice perfect posture? She was telling you this for a reason. Not only does slouching often appear to be a sign of low self-esteem, but it can also lead to a flabby figure.

Though it may not be as comfortable, sitting up straight helps to avoid weight gain and ward off back problems. So suck in that tummy and sit up straight.

Most importantly, remember that every person has their own unique shape.

Exercise is a great thing if you are looking to lead a healthy lifestyle, but can have very negative effects if done in a way that is harmful to your body.

Carolyn Hatch can be reached at cvhatch@spartans.ut.edu.

NEWS + FEATURES

THE MINARET | MARCH 24 2011

5

Some Voters Spoke, Few Voices Heard: Buckhorn Elected Mayor of Tampa

By Micheal Angelo Rumore News Reporter

Bob Buckhorn will become Tampa’s next mayor, having defeated challenger Rose Ferlita by a wide margin.

“Let’s build this city,” Buckhorn told supporters following the win.

“Let’s make us proud. This is our time.

This is our turn. This is our destiny. Let us begin now.”

As of Tuesday night, Buckhorn led Ferlita 63 percent to 37 percent, a decisive enough margin that Ferlita conceded by 8:15, only an hour after polls closed.

“We worked hard,” said a defeated Ferlita. “We didn’t get there. But Jesus, Lord, we tried like hell.”

The run-off vote follows the general election in which Ferlita finished first and Buckhorn second in a fivecandidate race.

Since neither candidate finished with a majority, law required an automatic runoff. Surprisingly, former four-term Mayor Dick Greco finished third, forcing him out of the race.

The campaign was overshadowed by a stretch of tough campaigning following a March 9 televised debate between the candidates.

Despite both candidates declining to criticize popular outgoing mayor Pam Iorio, who cannot run for re-election due

to term limits, they vigorously took jabs at each other.

Criticizing Buckhorn’s perceived lack of business experience, Ferlita said, “Tell me why you feel qualified, with the experience you’ve had, to be CEO of the city of Tampa.”

In response, Buckhorn cited his experience as an aid to former Mayor Sandy Freeman and as City Councilman, and pressed Ferlita on her specific proposals, which he found vague.

Perceived negative campaigning inspired Mayor Pam Iorio to endorse Buckhorn, saying, “The negative turn of the campaign by Bob’s opponent causes me great concern. I have always deplored negative campaigning and believe that it reflects on how one would govern. I know that it takes positive and steady leadership every single day to properly lead this city. Bob has demonstrated those attributes and will calmly and thoughtfully lead this city forward.”

Iorio responded to a mailer linked to a Ferlita supporter that claimed “Tampa voters have rejected Buckhorn three times . . . now he wants to be mayor of Tampa.”

Buckhorn also received endorsements from former opposing candidates Ed Turanchik and Tom Scott.

GMAT CLASSES OFFERED AT UT The University of Tampa now offers a GMAT prep course. Instructors are specially trained in each of the areas the exam covers.

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Take the FIRST STEP to getting into your first-choice graduate business program. Request more information or register today at www.ut.edu/gmatprep.

Contact the Office of Graduate and Continuing Studies at (813) 258-7409.

Bob Buckhorn for Mayor - Tampa, Florida/facebook.com

Bob Buckhorn led Rose Ferlita 63 percent to 37 percent, as of Tuesday night. This was a decisive enough margin that Ferlita conceded by 8:15 p.m., only an hour after polls closed.

However, Ferlita found herself at the brunt of a scurrilous attack mailer, which described her as, “Unsure. Unmarried.

Unelectable.”

The flip-side of the ad criticized Ferlita for being an unmarried woman, reading: “Rose Ferlita has put her political ambition first and foremost, while her opponent is a dedicated family man with two children— Ferlita is an unmarried woman with a suspect commitment to family values.”

Voter turnout on Tuesday was surprisingly low, even surprising election officials.

By late afternoon, only nine percent of registered Tampa voters had cast ballots.

Even though this number does not include mail-in ballots and early voting,

the turnout stands abysmally low.

“I was extremely disappointed in the low voter turnout for this election,” said Senior Claire Blanchard.

“My usually bustling voter precinct was empty except for a chatty eye, ear, and throat doctor. I think this reflects voter apathy towards the remaining candidates and their often mean-spirited campaigns against each other.”

UT students apparently contributed to the meager turnout.

Students around Vaughn Center were not available with comments on the election.

Buckhorn will take office April 1.

Micheal Angelo Rumore can be reached at michealangelorumore@gmail.com.

6 MARCH 24 2011 | THE MINARET

TRAVEL SERIES

A Bahamian Spring Break

By JUSTIN DAVIS

Special to The Minaret

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Story + Photos

Between kayaking, wake boarding, conching, and chasing wild fires, my spring break trip to the Bahamas was a wild, memorable week. It was one of the most beautiful places I have ever photographed. The pristine blue water, perfectly white sand, and sunsets are simply unbeatable.

I spent the week on Abaco, one of the larger but less populated islands in the Bahamas. I also ventured to some of the smaller islands surrounding Abaco, such as Elbow Cay and Green Turtle Cay. Elbow Cay is home to Hope Town, where a very special lighthouse resides. It is one of only two completely manual lighthouses

still standing worldwide.

Someone lives at the lighthouse and has to pump kerosene up to the top, light it and keep it turning every single night. It may seem archaic, but the residents love it and sternly fought a proposition to convert the lighthouse to an automatic system.

Abaco is also home to Treasure Cay, which has been voted one of the top 10 beaches in the world by several sources. Two miles of fine white sand and crystal clear waters make for quite a sight. It would be easy to waste away a whole day there just taking pictures.

1

2

5

4

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1. Crystal clear aqua blue waters surround Abaco, along with coconut trees and personal boat docks. 2. Starfish were found scattered around the shore, varying in size from just a few inches to over a foot in diameter. 3. The Hope Town lighthouse sits atop a small hill and is one of only two manual lighthouses left in the world. 4. A lone swing on the uninhabited Fiddle Cay affords an incredible view of the Bahamian sunset. 5. The sun sets over the beautiful Bahamian waters, ending another adventurous day. 6. The top of the lighthouse provides a fantastic overview of Hope Town and all of its brightly colored buildings.

THE MINARET | MARCH 24 2011

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8 MARCH 24 2011 | THE MINARET

Diversions FOR RELEASE APRIL 4, 2011

Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Lewis

ACROSS 1 Cotton swabs originally called Baby Gays 6 Actor Guinness 10 More than stumbled 14 Basic belief 15 Capital surrounding Vatican City 16 Falco of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Sopranosâ&#x20AC;?

17 Shabby 18 $3 million, 30sec. Super Bowl feature 19 Poet __ St. Vincent Millay 20 Feeling of uneasiness 23 Jungle swinger 25 Fla. hours 26 Cummerbund fold 27 Hand-held twoway communications device 32 Cheering noisily 33 Mashed luau staple 34 â&#x20AC;&#x153;M*A*S*Hâ&#x20AC;? staff 37 Reprimanderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;readingâ&#x20AC;?

40 Leave for a bit 43 Mind readerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skill, briefly 44 â&#x20AC;&#x153;How beautiful!â&#x20AC;?

46 Oil refinery input 47 Up-tempo jazz piano style 51 Amiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good-bye 54 Tiny bit 55 His-and-__ towels 56 Herbal nosegays 61 Isaacâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eldest 62 Knucklehead 63 Close, as a parka 66 Hollywood success 67 Hollywood favorite 68 College town near Bangor 69 Nannyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s charge 70 Bills with Hamilton on them 71 Rehab step DOWN 1 Super Bowl div.

Justin Davis/The Minaret Musician Preston Pugmere sings soulfully at Reeves Theater.

4/4/11

By John Lampkin

2 Green or black brew 3 Fully informed 4 Sampras of tennis 5 Eyelid problem 6 Manet or Monet 7 Affectionate bop 8 Key with four sharps: Abbr.

9 Give up formally 10 Weak 11 Murphy of â&#x20AC;&#x153;48 HRS.â&#x20AC;?

12 Top of a form, perhaps 13 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the __ I can doâ&#x20AC;?

21 Honey maker 22 Prefix with center or cycle 23 Informed (of) 24 Capital on the Seine 28 See 31-Down 29 Lyricist Gershwin 30 __ Angeles 31 With 28-Down, layered chocolate bar 34 Glitch in need of smoothing out 35 Film with nakedness

Saturdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Puzzle Solved

(c)2011 Tribune Media Services, Inc.

36 Cattle drive critter 38 Pigeonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sound 39 Dress (up) 41 Green prefix 42 Athlete who isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t green?

45 Stumble across, as an idea 47 Have no doubt 48 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yes, mon amiâ&#x20AC;?

49 Props for Monet and Manet

4/4/11

50 Part of wpm: Abbr.

51 â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is only __â&#x20AC;?

52 Like the trail on a cattle drive 53 Singer Chris 57 Change text 58 Pie Ă la __ 59 Former Lacoste partner 60 Dublinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s isle 64 Half of dos 65 Chicken __

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Aries (March 21-April 19) Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full of challenges. Watch out for mood swings, and finish a job carefully. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll think of something. Take special care of your health. Keep your money in your pocket.

Go over your lists again and postpone travel.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Counsel an anxious person to be frugal. Turn down a friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outrageous request. Resist spending on momentary pleasures. Stop scratching and start asking for more.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) Watch out for surprises. Blind reaction and impulsiveness cause accidents. Think first, and then act based on what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re really committed to. Clean up a mess for extra credit.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) Postpone travel or romance until later. Save up for that trip, and make plans. Disruptions at home may cause chaos at work. Someone questions your judgment. Flow with it.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t finance a crazy scheme today. Have fun without spending. Bring your toothbrush, just in case. Tell your fears youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get back to them later, and then go play.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) A coming change is for the better. Stay on plan, and calm someone whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s anxious. Pay attention, watch where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t jump the gun.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Confusionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s running rampant now. Find support in your community. Listen to someone who tells you the truth. Remind people about the bottom line, and offer your peacemaking skills.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) There are complications in romance now.

Reassure a loved one, and find support in your friends. Upgrade your personal environment, and consider accepting a challenge.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) The difficult part is just about over. Accept constructive criticism. Add up your savings. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sweat the small stuff. Let your friends take care of you. Massage, anyone?

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Emotional swings fill the day. Find refuge in your relationships. Use what you have in your pocket. Leave traveling for later. Enjoy the chaos.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Balance home and work. Today is best to invest your industrious energy into a home project. Take the necessary precautions, and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to make mistakes.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) An older dream could be possible now.

Accept all the help you can get. Destruction is part of the creative process. Conditions change unexpectedly. Be willing to flow like water.

Arts + Entertainment

THE MINARET | MARCH 24 2011

9

Students Go Noir at Blackbox Film Fest

By SOPHIE ERBER

Arts + Entertainment Columnist

University of Tampa’s student filmmakers brought their A-games this year to the annual Blackbox Film Festival held in Reeves Theatre. The variety and professionalism of the films was thoroughly impressive.

The first film, titled Waiting Room, started out with a moving, contemplative message: “Research shows that we’ll spend years of our lives waiting … and the waiting room can get quite lonely.

Sometimes, we can’t help but wonder, ‘when will our number be called?’”

This original concept drew an interesting and somewhat frightening parallel between the actual waiting rooms we encounter and the “waiting rooms” of our lives.

In reality, we do wait for many things, just like the film said. “We wait for a text message, a phone call, a job interview, an email,” the film said. The film was definitely a call to action. “Stop waiting.

Do more. Wait less,” the film seemed to state.

Monday Morning was a film without any spoken narration that was realistic and hilarious. The short film comically depicted the haze in which we college students drag ourselves out of bed every morning, throw our sleep-deprived bodies into a cold shower and go through the routine of making sure we have everything we need for class.

The film ended with an ironic situation some of us occasionally find ourselves in: as the student character remembers his phone on the way out the door, he pulls it off the charger only to find a “class cancelled” text message from one of his friends.

Solace, directed by Kylie Jacob, was a much more serious film. The film followed a passionate, but volatile relationship. The characters were played by Ryan Robidoux and Tamara Austin. The movie depicted the inner turmoil of Ryan’s character, as he tried to cope with the loss of a girl he clearly loved. Poignant flashbacks and flash-forwards throughout the film painted a picture of a beautiful love lost forever.

“I got the idea from a French Connection [clothing] ad I saw in a magazine,” said Jacob. “The ad said, ‘Think of words, put them in order, maker her laugh.’”

This magazine ad makes an appearance in the film. A flashback shows a couple cuddling and happy, flipping through the magazine and stopping at that ad. It appears again when the boy is upset and the girl is gone. He flips through the magazine she left and finds the page, crying as he remembers better times.

“As this was my first movie, I have learned so much about what I could have done differently, but I am so proud of how much attention it has gotten thus far,” said Jacob. “Hopefully my upcoming projects can be just as successful or even more so.”

Breaking Point was another powerful film directed by Kaneesha Heath. This film highlighted the issue of domestic violence. The woman in the film, also played by Tamara Austin, is in an abusive relationship with an unrelenting man who constantly ridicules her for being infertile and unsuccessful in her acting career.

Through a monologue audition piece the woman performs, the audience sees how her morning played out. The man is reminding her how unsuccessful and useless she is, when the woman finally breaks. She slaps him over and over with a steaming pan of eggs she was cooking for

Abby Sanford/The Minaret

Student filmmakers Melinda Nelson, Alex Solomita, Klein Wong, Keith Piesco, Kingsley Traenobi, Tamara Austin, and Dennis Hooten celebrate a successful evening.

breakfast, and then stabs him in the neck with a kitchen knife.

At the end of the audition, the panel compliments her and says they will be in touch with, her but tells the woman that she has something on her shirt. We see that the stain is blood and when the woman replies, “I had a rough morning,” we realize that she actually committed the murder described in her monologue.

Tamara won best actress for her role in this film.

TAG, directed by Alexander Solomita won the award for best screenplay and One Way Howard took home two awards, both for best actor and best drama. The dry humor mixed with high-tension, suspenseful scenes, made for a highly entertaining film.

A memorable quote was during a card game between the thugs in a rundown warehouse.

“Why’s his name Talker?” one man asks. “Because he doesn’t talk,” replies the other.

Another example of One Way’s humor is while Mr. V “The Boss” is strapping an explosive to a hostage. He says, “We got two minutes before this skank blows up all over the place.”

Spin Cycle, directed by Fawn Testa won the Juror’s Prize. This humorous, fastpaced short film starred Ryan Robidoux and Trixie Trigo.

“I really liked Fawn’s concept, because it’s based on that curiosity we all experience when we see someone who intrigues us,” says Rubidoux. “Trixie Trigo was great to act with. She helped me with my acting in Solace, so we had great chemistry. Getting to kiss a cute girl for about ten takes wasn’t too bad either.”

Sophie Erber can be reached serber@ spartans.ut.edu.

Dress to Impress: Your Future May Depend on It

By CAROLYN HATCH

Arts + Entertainment Columnist

If you are looking to land that dream job any time soon, the first thing that you need to do is dress to impress.

Many see clothing as a matter that should not be a determining factor when getting ahead in your career, but this is not at all the case.

The first five seconds of interaction between the interviewer and the interviewee are vital. Confidence is crucial to being granted any opportunity in life.

The perfect attire can bring a sense of

[

Suits should come in three colors, and three colors only; black, grey or navy.

Conservative is key, and it is imperative that the suit is purchased as one piece, rather than as separates that may not be the perfect match.

White blouses are most practical, but any basic button-down without ruffles or other embellishments is also acceptable.

Before purchasing professional apparel, men should take into consideration whether or not their male colleagues would wear the same things in the office.

Women should do the same when buying any items with print.

The first five seconds of interaction between the interviewer and interviewee are vital.

confidence that will assure any employer you are the man or woman for the job.

The phrase “dress to impress” does not only refer to a winter formal or a Saturday night out at Jackson’s, but, more importantly, to making an impact on those for whom you hope to work.

When going on any interview, whether it is a small firm or Fortune 500 corporation, you need to wear a suit.

The business casual firm will appreciate your reverence, and the large corporation will see you as a viable candidate.

It is when you get the job that you can begin to dress according to the standards of that particular office.

]

If you want to buy a printed skirt or dress, consider whether or not a male colleague would wear a tie with that particular print.

Skirts and dresses with print should be a medium to dark color, hitting no higher than the knee and always being paired with a jacket.

Men should wear loafers that are black, brown or navy. Women should also stick to these colors, but can choose between flats and pumps.

For an interview, it is suggested that women wear a closed-toe pump with a two-to-three inch heel.

This traditional look is great with both

pants and skirts and tends to leave a better impression after the interview.

However, flats are also a practical option and should look similar to men’s loafers.

Hair should never serve as a distraction while in the office.

Men’s hair should be no longer than an inch and, especially if it is a tad longer, exceptionally well-groomed.

Woman’s hair should be pulled back or cut short and styled so that it is out of the face.

Although that “poof” may get you by at The Kennedy, I suggest that you leave the “bump-it” at home.

Wristwatches are a classic piece and should be worn in any professional setting as long as they are subtle, yet chic.

Jewelry should be worn in moderation, as this is often what can take an outfit from professional to amateur.

Oversized hoops have their own saying which we do not need to reiterate, and those Silly Bandz are flat-out juvenile in the office.

One ring, a wristwatch and one pair of non-dangling earrings are always a safe bet if you are having reservations.

In preparation for your upcoming interview, have these essentials in your closet and bear in mind that confidence is key.

Your next employer will be proud to have you as a representation of their company.

Carolyn Hatch can be reached at cvhatch@spartans.ut.edu.

Illustrationby Alex Vera

Play it safe when dressing for business. Keep the color of your suits conservative.

10

MARCH 24 2011 | THE MINARET

The Scoop

Mangroves: A Quiet Evening in Loud SoHo

By MORIAH PARRISH

Arts + Entertainment Columnist

Actor M. Emmet Walsh ‘In-Conversation’

When: Thursday, March 24, 1 p.m.

Where: Reeves Theater, Vaughn Center What: Actor M. Emmet Walsh, who has starred in such films as “Youth in Revolt,” “Blade Runner” and “Blood Simple.” Will be on campus discussing his experience in the entertainment business.

Admission: Free

Poetry Films of Kate Greenstree

When: Thursday, March 24, 8 p.m.

Where: Fletcher Lounge, Plant Hall What: Kate Greenstreet is the author of two books of poetry. One of which, The Last 4 Things, includes two short films based on the two sections of the book.

Admission: Free.

Actor Tom Berenger ‘In-Conversation’

When: Friday, March 25, 1 p.m.

Where: Reeves Theater, Vaughn Center What: Tom Berenger, known for his mroles in “Platoon,” “Major League” and “Inception.”

He will talk to UT students about his life as an actor, writer and producer.

Admission: Free.

WAU Presents Kate Greenstreet

When: Friday, March 25, 8 p.m.

Where: Grand Salon, Plant Hall What: Greenstreet’s new work can be found in Chicago Review, Colorado Review, Volt, Fence, Boston Review, and other journals.

She is also a painter and graphic designer.

Admission: Free.

Coffeehouse Open Mic Night

When: Saturday, March 26, 8 p.m.

Where: Rathskellar What: Come read poetry, sing, play an instrument or do comedy on stage.

Admission: Free.

Gasparilla International Film Festival

When: March 24 - March 27 Where: Rathskellar What: It is the festivals fifth year. This year M. Emmet Walsh will receive the Life Time achievement award and Tom Berenger will receive the Career Achievement Award.

Admission: Various. Check website for individual prices: www.tampatheatre.org.

Mangroves sits nestled in a quiet corner of typically noisy South Howard, neighboring popular drinking destinations like The Drynk, Cheap and MacDinton’s.

It is not, however, the same sort of destination as the rest of the SoHo bar district.

Upon entering the building, it is easy to tell Mangroves strives to be a step above casual dining.

Soft lighting takes many forms along the ceiling, ranging from modern-art-looking chandeliers to Moriah Parrish/ The Minaret hanging pendant lights encased in Located on South Howard Ave., Mangroves is a classier alternative to some of the area’s cylindrical shades. Black and white other notoriously loud bars and restaurants. serve as the main color palette, with both colors accenting the tables in layers of cloth. on the surface, and another floating entrée on the menu, the Mediterranean The servers, dressed in black, amongst a white flower in tall vases. Pasta is abounding with flavor. The stroll quietly through the halls, and Someone with a knack for artistic spinach noodles tossed in Alfredo soft, easy-listening music fills the vision clearly had a hand in designing sauce are the perfect base for the otherwise quiet dining rooms. Two the décor. sundried tomatoes, kalamata olives, floors divide the seating arrangements The menu has all the offerings fresh spinach and small button with a bar available on both floors. of an impressive first date. The mushrooms that are mixed in with Candles adorn the tables, one sitting appetizers are as numerous as the them. Topped with giant slices of entrées, and the dishes are varied, portobello mushrooms, the dish is a with no central theme other than huge portion, and hearty enough to items that sound extremely palatable. make up for the lack of meat. It is an Coconut and macadamia crusted excellent offering for those that are Mahi Mahi is offered right along not carnivorous. with Southwest-style spicy shrimp, For dessert, Mangroves is limited, Iced Tea: $2.00 and a traditional New York Strip. with only three items on the menu.

Beef Tartar: $12.00 The Truffled Beef Tartar is a starter The bread pudding is tasty, and served Mediterranean Pasta: not found on many menus in Tampa. in a molded cube, as opposed to the $16.00 It is served on five mini-toasts with traditional soupy consistency and Bread Pudding: $7.00 a creamy spread and topped with appearance. Drizzled with caramel fresh basil. Drizzled in a pinot noir sauce and stuffed with macadamia reduction, it has an excellent flavor, nuts throughout, it is quite delicious, Average Entrée: $20.00 and the crunch of the toast balances but only for a few bites. After a full the soft, tender texture of the raw meal, it is difficult to consume the Service: Quiet and Relaxed beef. Meat that is perfectly rare does, entire portion.

Atmosphere: Dim and however, have a very strong flavor All portions at Mangroves are Romantic to it, one that permeates the entire very, very large. The service is quiet mouth up to the nose. It is a unique and unassuming, and of a moderate experience that is not like sushi, so speed. For a quiet evening on the Variety: High-end Plates the less adventurous may want to town, it is the perfect destination.

Wine: White, Red, steer clear.

Moriah Parrish can be reached Sparkling and Port The only vegetarian option for an at mparrish@spartans.ut.edu.

The Dish

Your guide to the upcoming flicks hitting theatres this weekend.

“Sucker Punch” Rated: PG-13 Time: 120 mins

Zack Snyder, director of Watchmen (2009), tells the story of a young girl attempting to escape a mental asylum before she can be lobotomized. Sucker Punch stars Emily Browning, Abbie Cornish, and Jena Malone.

“Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules” Rated: PG Time: 96 mins

Based on the book of the same name, Diary of a Wimpy Kid follows Zachary Gordon as Greg Heffley, a sixth-grade wise guy. Bullied and tired of middle school, Heffley claims that he is 19th most popular student in school, despite feeling uncool.

“Skateland” Rated: PG-13 Time: 98 mins

After premiering at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival, Skateland comes to U.S. theaters. The film stars Shiloh Fernandez as Ritchie Wheeler, a 19-year-old boy who spends his time at a skating rink pondering his future. Untimely circumstances force him to decide sooner than he expected.

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

THE MINARET | MARCH 24 2011

11

Degas Says ‘Bonjour’ to Museum of Art into the Roman and Greek art that provides a perfect balance to Degas’ own works.

According to the museum’s website, “Degas ... himself spoke on more than one occasion of the connection between his dancers and ‘the movement and balance of rhythmic dance’ found in the art of ancient Greece.”

A particularly striking painting titled Groupe de Danseuses features ballerinas in motion, employing pastel and charcoal.

Blues were used to cast an eerie light on the dancers’ positions.

A sketch hanging in the gallery showed a ballerina with her leg on the barre, white

[ Bruin/wikipedia.org

French artist Degas is renowned for his two and three-dimensional art.

By AMANDA SIERADZKI

Arts + Entertainment Columnist

From March 12 to June 19, the museum is featuring the works of Degas, a French impressionist artist who lived from 1834-1917 and worked with both twodimensional and three-dimensional art. He is famous for his depictions of Romanticera ballet dancers, as well as nude figures of women.

Tampa’s gallery exhibition overwhelms the second floor of the museum, bleeding

all their glory take up another corner of the museum.

The freedom of the women seemed risqué for Degas, especially considering the world’s emergence from the Victorian age.

As much as Degas’ work in the exhibit can be appreciated, controversy has surrounded the museum. According to the Tampa Tribune, Degas never made the bronze sculptures. They were in fact a part of 74 wax sculptures found by Degas’ family after his death in 1917.

The Tribune quotes art “purists” who believe that since the family’s estate

The statues and paintings certainly can speak for themselves, and even maintain their relevance today.

tulle from her knee-length tutu trailing behind her.

Another sketch hung parallel, using vague lines to show another ballerina attending to her leg, giving the impression of a strenuous rehearsal.

Among the paintings and sketches, a series of Degas’ bronze statues are displayed in glass cubes. The plaques on the wall explain that Degas had all of his models pose naked for his moldings.

Though caste in bronze, the statues are bursting with energy and textured strokes of the artists’ hand.

There is a Spanish dancer shimmying a tambourine with Flamenco flair and The Little Dancer, Aged 14, fitted with an actual tulle skirt.

A series of three statues show the step-by-step motions of an arabesque ponche, a ballet move in which the leg lifts behind the dancer as the upper-body leans forward. Sculptures of voluptuous women showering and splashing water in

]

decided to cast the statues in bronze after Degas’ death, they should not be considered a part of his works.

In the article, executive director of the Tampa Museum of Art Todd Smith is quoted saying, “We have always presented [the statues] as they are, bronze casts of wax originals.”

Despite artistic debate, the statues and paintings certainly can speak for themselves, and even maintain their relevance today. A hybrid of painting and sculpture culminate in Degas’ Picking Apples, which a museum attendee commented on as being similar to Star Wars’ Han Solo coming out of frozen carbonite.

The animation Degas illustrates in Picking Apples, and all his works, certainly seem one with the force that all human experiences can tap into.

For more information please visit tampamuseum.org.

Amanda Sieradzki can be reached at asieradzki@spartans.ut.edu.

The York Project/wikipedia.org

Degas is considered an impressionist artist despite the fact that he has mocked his very movement.

The York Project/wikipedia.org

Critics have called Degas the antiimpressionist because he never adapted the impressionist color fleck.

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT 12 MARCH 24 2011 | THE MINARET Organization is Worth the Effort App Finds Top Colleges for You

Spreadsheets for applications to get the internship

By TODD SANBORN

Arts + Entertainment Columnist

Organizational spreadsheet

By LAURA SCHLUCKEBIER Hack College

As you’re preparing to get your internship and job materials up to snuff, it’s important to keep organized.

With all of internship opportunities that you’ll be looking into, sometimes keeping track of which internship or job has which requirement and which due date can get overwhelming.

Yesterday, as I was trying to knock some applications out over my spring break, I found it almost impossible to keep everything organized.

I tried keeping a list, and even as much as I love lists, I just wasn’t cutting it.

I ended up spending about an hour making a spreadsheet listing all of the internships I hoped to apply to and everything that I needed to know about it.

When you’re trying to remember all of the components of the many internships

you’re applying for, try making a spreadsheet of your own.

I included the following columns on my spreadsheet: - Web address specifying instructions - Due date - Position that I’m implying for - Address to send application materials (email or physical address) - Required materials - Status of application (sent, need to print and mail, etc.)

- Other Information (for instance if there’s a link to an application form to fill out) It was a pain to compile, but once it was done, I could clearly see everything that I needed to do and which materials I needed to include in my application.

Being organized is a key thing that you’ll need to master in order to get a great job, so start practicing early.

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Imagine how much easier life would have been your last few months in high school without your parents nagging about which college you were going to attend.

You probably spent hours in your room “researching” various colleges, a task otherwise referred to as “playing on Facebook.”

Now there is an app on Facebook called “AdmissionSplash,” which basically gives you your chances of being accepted into the college of your dreams.

Up until just recently, though, there was no way of knowing if your grades, SAT scores and extracurricular activities would be enough to get you accepted into a university.

By collecting your grades, activities and college goals, the app promises to give you a score as to whether or not you will be accepted into the school or schools you choose.

The likelihood ranges from “very poor” to “great,” depending on what the AdmissionSplash app believes are your strengths and weaknesses.

The company, Splash Networks, has set the goal of making choosing a college easier on prospective students and ultimately hopes to save them money on the application fees which typically range upwards of $45, per university.

If a student has a “very poor” chance of getting accepted, based on their grades and other statistics, then it is probably not the best idea to spend the money and all the time that is required in writing the individualized essay.

The University of Tampa is a university supported by AdmissionSplash, so I decided to try it out on myself.

I first was asked to enter my unweighted high school GPA, choose the tests I had taken (out of the SAT, ACT, PSAT and TOEFL), then I entered my scores for each section of those tests, entered my anticipated major and some personal information, including my name, high school graduation year, gender and email address.

A tab at the bottom will let you enter in even more information to give you back the best results and these questions range from your ethnicity, religion, your involvement in clubs and sports in high school and then your planned involvement once you enter college.

I received the score of a “great” chance of being accepted to UT. This prompted me to do some research and ask my fellow peers and admissions

staff what they thought about Splash Network’s latest app.

Stephanie Bihr, admissions counselor and social media counselor, had a few things to say.

Having heard about it before our interview through National Public Radio, she thought it was interesting, but was concerned as to where they get their information.

“Private schools are very different from public schools and most schools have specific admissions criteria, which is not typically posted,” Bihr said. She went on to say that UT has a holistic approach to admitting students.

They look at each student’s information individually and they don’t look at each major the same.

“The University has a lot of different majors. Bio chemistry is different from an art major, because there are different requirements and criteria for each,” Bihr said.

Bihr said that the AdmissionSplash app is a great resource, but not a definite answer as to whether a student should apply to a certain school or not.

Bihr even went on to say that UT is looking at integrating more technology on campus and said an “admissions” app should be available by next summer, giving students the ability to take a virtual tour of campus and even talk with other perspective peers before the start of their first semester.

In development tests, the AdmissionSplash app has success statistics upwards of 85 percent, where the app said they would be admitted and where they actually went.

Currently, Splash Networks has over 1,500 colleges and universities around the U.S., programmed to give the student their results back immediately.

The app could also be used as a great resource for students continuing their education, looking for a graduate program, and students looking to transfer.

Students around campus had other ideas about the app. Danny Ritter, a freshman, said, “It sounds like a cool idea, but Facebook stuff is usually shady and I don’t put information like that in [apps].”

Ariston Carter felt almost exactly the same way.

“I’m not sure, I rarely use apps on Facebook. I think I would be especially hesitant about that one,” Carter said.

Mackenzie Parish on the other hand said it would have been “really helpful [during] senior year of high school.”

Todd Sanborn can be reached at todd. sanborn@spartans.ut.edu.

13

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

THE MINARET | MARCH 24 2011

‘Give the Drummer Some’ Respect: Travis Barker’s Surprising LP

By RICHARD SOLOMON

Arts + Entertainment Columnist

I’m not a huge fan of rap. I have the token Eminem songs on my workout playlist and every once in a while I’ll play some Fort Minor, but for the most part I can’t seem to get into hip-hop.

So when Travis Barker released his solo-project on March 15, I was a little skeptical.

Travis Barker is the gifted drummer of Blink-182, and die-hard fans of the band may remember that most of Blink’s initial successes could be attributed to Barker’s incredible drumming.

Well, this isn’t a Blink-182 album, or even your typical rock album.

Produced by Barker and over a dozen others, mostly rappers, Give the Drummer Some is unlike anything else I’ve ever heard.

But with big names like RZA and Dr. Dre working alongside Barker, I suppose I should have known this would be something great and not just an average album.

Give the Drummer Some features different rappers and musicians on every track.

The only unifying element to the album is that every song showcases Barker’s incredible drumming.

But even with song titles like, “Can a Drummer Get Some?” the album doesn’t come across as arrogant or full of itself, the way Kanye might.

It is rather a simple collection of tracks showing off Barker’s unique style.

If the list of producers seems impressive, the guests featured are even more so.

Lil Wayne, Kid Cudi, Lupe Fiasco, RZA and even Snoop Dog appear. And it’s not just an impressive array of vocalists either.

Tom Morello, lead guitarist for Rage Against the Machine backs Barker up on a track and even Slash plays guitar on a song.

Fans of rap will love this album.

“Cool Head” featuring Kid Cudi is one of my favorites, taking the best elements of Kid Cudi’s unique flavor and combining them with Barker’s beat-style.

There’s a deluxe version of the album and if you’re going to buy Give the Drummer Some, make sure to get it deluxe.

Four extra tracks are well worth the extra money and I’d be less crazy about the album as a whole if it weren’t for these tracks.

One of these will definitely appeal to the more rock-oriented listener.

Corey Taylor, lead singer of Slipknot and Stone Sour, sings in “On My Own” and Barker tears up the drums while Taylor shreds the vocals.

It’s a fast-paced song and sounds like nothing else on the album, but doesn’t seem out of place.

That’s not to say the album is perfect.

There are a few songs that seem out of place and don’t really flow well.

And as great as it to see Snoop Dog and Ludacris collaborating on an album, you have to wonder if there are almost too many big names working on the project.

Interestingly though, “Knockin” which featured Snoop, Ludacris, E-40 and Dev, was a great track.

The beat works well and a few times

Travis lets himself loose on the drums and tears them apart. “ L e t ’s Go” is also a great song. It’s a song with fast-paced drumming and even f a s t e r rapping.

B u s t a Rhymes and Twista shine in it.

Yo u ’ l l listen to this over and over just to try to catch every word, Travis Barker, former Blink-182 drummer, goes solo in Give the Drummer Some. but you chorus is literally “Can a drummer get won’t mind, the song is that good.

If you’re not a fan of rap you’ll still some?” repeated over and over.

But again, this doesn’t come across as appreciate the amazing melodies found in nearly every song and you’ll still enjoy vain or arrogant.

If RZA is complimenting you in a rap, tracks like “Devil’s Got a Hold of Me” and chances are it’s because you deserve it.

“On My Own.” If you like this album, you may also If you like rap even a little, you’ll love like: music by RZA, Raekwon or Lupe most of these tracks.

Lyrically nothing stood out to me, but, Fiasco.

I also recommend you check out early if you listen carefully.

Nearly every song seems to have a Blink-182 stuff as well as The Aquabats, just to hear more Travis Barker. chorus or verse that nods to Travis.

Richard Solomon can be reached at This is more obvious in the chorus of “Can a Drummer Get Some?” where the richard.solomon@spartans.ut.edu.

14 MARCH 24 2011 | THE MINARET

Commentary

Political Correctness Reaches Absurdity With the Bible

He Said

She Said

By JOHN JACOBS

Asst. Commentary Editor

Hannah Webster/ The Minaret

Traditionally masculine designations have been replaced with phrases like that are more gender neutral. This neutrality creates an emphasis on sexism in the bible which may distort its message.

By HANNAH WEBSTER Love and Sex Columnist

Masculine designations have been replaced with phrases like “brother or sister” or neutral words like “they,” “them” and “people.”

I am a woman that proudly stands for the strength and equality of my gender.

Though I don’t consider myself a feminist, few things get me more riled-up than blatant, ignorant sexism.

I was the sixth-grader that told my class on career day that my success was more important than my future husband.

But I am also a writer and an avid reader who believes some things need not be messed with for the sake of political correctness.

I was recently outraged by the decision to alter Mark Twain’s classic Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

They changed every incident of the “Nword” to “slave,” on the basis that the book would otherwise be considered racist.

Perhaps, if Mark Twain were alive to approve the changes, things would be different.

Instead, the work of a talented author is being altered without his consent.

Future generations may lose the chance to experience the novel’s original version.

Though I do not by any means support the derogatory term, I do support the right of an author to say what they damn well please.

Last time I checked, The First Amendment still counted for something.

No one is forcing parents or teachers to push this text into their children’s hands.

If you don’t like it, don’t read it.

Why not have kids watch television instead?

They’ll be exposed to twice the violence, racism and sex, with zero educational value.

But expose them to literature?

How dare us.

Anyway, back to the bible.

I never once sat through a Sunday sermon or read a Biblical passage and thought to myself, “This Bible is sexist. Where are the ‘she’s’ and ‘sisters’?” Obviously, the case of the Bible is different than a Mark

Twain novel. We have no certain author to attribute or even a translation to agree on, not to mention varying interpretations (hence the whole religion thing).

When it comes down to it, I simply can’t help but wonder if the new translation was worth the tedious effort that went into it.

Changing the religious word into something politically correct seems not only daunting, but a borderline oxymoron.

Did I miss news of demands for appeasement?

I’ve never heard of feminists marching on the NIV headquarters, demanding equal Biblical representation.

From day-one, in English class, we are told to pick a sex when writing coherent sentences.

Doesn’t matter which, just decide; none of this “she and/or he” business. It confuses people.

Just as I’m sure replacing “he/him” with “they/them” will.

And this seems like the last text that needs added confusion.

Had the bible originally been written in this way, I would probably think nothing of the wording.

Or even had it been written with “hers” and “she’s.” The text would have meant the same.

But it’s the changing of it; change is what gets to people.

The only change that I would truly find bothersome would be if this raised awareness to the “issue” at hand actually causes someone to read the Bible with gender roles in mind, rather than the meaning behind the words.

Hopefully this change in translation doesn’t leave people unable to find their own interpretation.

Hannah Webster can be reached at hannahkarine31@gmail.com.

Poll: Are you in favor of the changes being made to the Bible?

Visit The Crescent at www. minaretblog.com to cast your vote.

Recently, the New International Version Bible was released by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

It contains more “politically correct” language. This brings up the issue of how far can we go as a country to constantly avoid offending anyone with the endless use of euphemisms. Out of all things to make politically correct, the Catholic Church has decided they have authority to alter the “word of God”?

Isn’t it up to the reader to decipher a message they read in the Bible (which is controversially regarded by the Christian faith as the most perfect book in all of existence) instead of having it rewritten to include dumbed-down terms? Why have an extensive vocabulary if all we’re going to do is write things using the most basic literary terms possible?

To give examples of some of the language used in the new version, instead of the word “booty,” it will be replaced with “spoils of war.” Apparently a majority of the people reading the Bible can’t help but laugh when they hear the word “booty,” so the Conference of Catholic Bishops figured “spoils of war” would sufficiently keep the 8 year-olds in the back of the room quiet while the Bible is being read in Sunday school.

The word “virgin,” will be changed to “young woman.” I’m pretty sure I was not alone on this one when I immediately thought, “Wasn’t the whole miracle of Mary’s pregnancy based on the fact that she was a virgin?” Now she’s just a “young woman”? I find it hard seeing those words being interchangeable with one another.

Steve Carrel’s movie would have been completely different story if it were called, “The 40 Year-Old Young Woman.”

Why is it that we decided to change such an important term in a book on which most people base their whole state of life? They seriously believe that “young woman” is an appropriate change to the word “virgin”? I’ve never been with a girl before and had her say, “Hey, I really like you, but I just don’t think I’m ready to do that yet. I’m a young woman.” (And she probably wouldn’t even be one; they just love telling you that.)

These new politically correct Bibles are shining light on the real issue: our country has been transitioning towards a soft, victimless, unrealistic society. It can’t continue to move in this direction if it wants to function.

Don’t get me wrong, I have no problem with using politically correct terms when referring to disability or other uncontrollable hardships (that, when mentioned, would only hurt another person’s feelings) but the problem now is that we have euphemisms for words that need to carry a negative connotation.

For example, it’s never socially acceptable to call anyone “fat” or “stupid” because those terms carry a negative connotation. But by using politically correct euphemisms like “full-figured,”

“curvy,” “not well-read” or “intellectually challenged,” people won’t feel bad about their problems. I’m not suggesting that being overweight has anything to do with physical appearance, (which I can sadly assume everyone reading just thought because it’s become your natural instinct to find any reason to get offended when seeing anything controversial). It’s about the fact that being overweight can negatively affect your health.

It’s estimated that around 300,000 deaths per year are related to obesity. Since it’s never acceptable now for people to call each other out on their problems, we just blame businesses that sell us food for making it unhealthy, even though it’s our conscious decision to decide what we eat.

I’m also not saying anyone uneducated is any less significant than the next person, but by not putting enough pressure on people about the importance of getting an education, it becomes socially acceptable not to get concerned. Not only will those people be hurting themselves, but the larger that uneducated population becomes, the dumber our entire country will become.

When I say “education,” I’m mainly referring to grade school, but if you were looking for one more reason to be offended, you probably assumed I just meant college.

The problem isn’t that our country is too offensive and the solution isn’t to push toward being politically correct. The problem is that we’ve all gotten too scared to “tell it like it is” due to the overly-sensitized state of being we’ve created here. Parents have gotten too used to giving positive reinforcement instead of positive criticism.

Sure, positive reinforcement will keep a kid happy, but positive criticism is what will ultimately make that kid successful.

Parents can continue to reassure their child that they are special, amazing, great and should never settle for anything less than the best, but that doesn’t change the fact that there are 14,000 McDonald’s stores in America alone, and somebody will need to work in them. It’s not a highly respected career, but just as our country needs doctors, teachers, fire fighters, and policemen, we also need millions of fastfood employees, gas station attendants, and garbage collectors. It’s a system that requires all of these positions to be filled if we want to continue to be an efficient, functional country. When every child is constantly being told of their “infinite potential” throughout adolescence, we’re only creating millions of young adults with unrealistic dreams of being rich and famous. They will be shocked when they realize that the world isn’t as “fair” as they thought it was, and you need more than just “potential” to be successful. Just because your parent will never tell you such a harsh reality, that doesn’t mean your employer will have any problem telling you, “you’re horrible at your job, you’re worthless, get your things and get the hell out of here.

You’re fired.”

Finally, I’m not assuming everyone should share my opinions on these issues, but that they should understand and consider them. If you truly can’t understand my position and respect where I’m coming from, then in the words of the great Cee-Lo Green, “Forget you.”

John Jacobs can be reached at jjacobs@spartans.ut.edu.

THE MINARET | MARCH 24 2011

COMMENTARY

15

Editorial: Dean of Student Selection,Finding the Right Person For the Job Gender-neutral or co-ed dorm rooms have been questioned each and every time a college has implemented the lifestyle.

Currently, there are more than 55 schools nationwide that offer co-ed housing, according to The Columbus Dispatch.

Earlier this month, Rutgers University announced it was going to start a new program allowing co-ed dorm rooms.

Beginning in the fall, the program is set to offer gender-neutral rooms to 20-30 students.

According to a statement released by Rutgers University, “In the aftermath of the Clementi tragedy, members of the LGBTQ community told the administration that gender-neutral housing would help create

EDITOR LETTER

TO THE

Debunking Urban Dictionary Myth of UT’s Definition We as students of rhetoric and composition here at UT take issue with the Urban Dictionary definition of our university that was sprawled across the front page of The Minaret on February 10.

There is no logic to the definition, which leads us to question the credibility as well as the intentions of the contributor.

In an effort to bring logic to the situation, we have crafted the following statement on five points within the Urban Dictionary definition that troubled us the most. “…manswapping, gangbanging females.”

Every university has its’ fair share of promiscuity on campus, and UT is no exception. That doesn’t make it acceptable to label people who engage in such activities malicious names as “sluts” or “whores”, words that are used to describe the promiscuous every day. Nor does it make it acceptable to use labels such as “manswapping, gangbanging females,” words listed on Urban Dictionary in reference to UT that defame UT’s female students and curiously leaves out any hint of defamation of UT’s male students. We all know people who choose not to sleep around, many of who are right here on our campus. Due to the diversity of cultures and values present on campus, UT students do not all automatically subscribe to the belief that being promiscuous is acceptable, and as UT students, we feel it is unfair and unfounded to allow the image of all UT students as being an overly promiscuous student population to go unchallenged. We feel as

an even more inclusive environment. Since then the university has been exploring this in greater detail.”

Clementi was a freshman at Rutgers University who committed suicide after a video of him and another man having sex was posted online by his roommate and another student.

In a broadcast by Fox13, Krystal Schofield, University of Tampa director of housing, affirmed that UT’s residential halls are co-ed, but the rooms are not.

Is there a need for such a program on campus?

In the case of Clementi, there was a noticeable environment of harassment that seemed to culminate to a level that provoked

two students to publicly humiliate and attack another student.

The decision to switch to co-ed dorms should be determined based on atmosphere and overall acceptance of race, gender, ethnicity and sexual orientation.

A lot of people may disagree and argue that we are all adults and should have the option of sharing a room with whomever we desire.

The fact of the matter is that the university will probably be looked upon as endorsing a lifestyle, rather than the students individually.

It is a decision that must not be made hastily, but on an as-needed basis.

In my opinion, co-ed dorms not only stir

mixed emotions, but they can also lead to more complicated living conditions.

If a co-ed policy were implemented, a couple would potentially be allowed to share a room.

But what would happen if the couple suddenly split up mid-semester?

As much as someone might argue that they want better roommates or perhaps would prefer sharing a room with his girlfriend, a college dorm should be a place for sanctuary, where you do not have to deal with seeing your significant other 24/7.

The Editorial Board can be reached at editor@theminaretonline.com or you may submit a Letter to the Editor form online at www.theminaretonline.com.

if much of this generalization stems from the idea that we are a party school (another fallacy) and that our female students may wear certain types of clothing that are deemed promiscuous looking by those who are so ignorant as to categorize women’s values and integrity by the length of their skirts. Going out to the bars and clubs is a popular thing to do over the weekends here at UT, and females will more than likely be seen wearing revealing clothes.

But is that a valid argument in defining our female students as “manswapping” and “gangbanging”? What are females supposed to wear to the clubs? Hoodies and sweat pants? Even if some of UT’s females engage in such activities, hastily generalizing the entire population based on those few does not lend the definition or its’ writer any credibility. “…extremely overpriced…university…”

When it comes to pricing at the UT, the total cost is far less than the national average for private schools. According to the College Board, the average price of a private university education in the United States is approximately $27,000, not including room and board. UT is approximately $32,000 per year, but that includes room and board, making it more of a value to students’ pockets.

Before even applying to college, we knew that a private university is more expensive than a public one, and UT is not an exception. Such as education is more expensive simply due to the quality that is offered; that’s just the way it is. Considering that many students receive financial aid and/or scholarships, and students with high GPAs receive additional funding or scholarships, it’s easy to argue that UT is not an overpriced school. “…mediocre university…”

We feel as though our university is academically better than the reputation assigned to us by Urban Dictionary. With

a 17:1 student to teacher ratio, a personal relationship is created between teachers and students which is much harder to accomplish at bigger universities. Since so many disciplines are offered, this close relationship allows students to retain subject matter in their choice of over 100 different majors. Also, consider the John H. Sykes College of Business: it’s accredited by the Association of Advanced Collegiate Schools for Business which “ensures students and parents that the business school is providing a top-quality education,” according to the organization’s website. This accreditation aids in students getting internships while still attending the university. If UT is such a mediocre university, why do local businesses continue to reach out to the students for jobs? Also consider our nursing program: UT is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing, is a member of the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, and is one of the most competitive majors at the university, according to UT’s accreditation webpage. These are only two of the excellent examples of high academic standards UT boasts.

With all of the possibilities and opportunities our university has to offer, we as students find it hard to believe UT could be seen as such a second-rate university. “…one of the biggest party schools in Florida!”

The explicit statement that UT is “one of the biggest party schools in Florida” in another fallacious Urban Dictionary definition is an exaggeration to say the least.

Unlike bigger universities, UT doesn’t have houses for Greek organizations on campus, so there is no immediate place on campus to hold parties. UT is also very strict; the university has a zero tolerance policy with harsh consequences when it comes to alcohol and drugs, substances which quickly come to mind when considering

the image of a party school. If we as students are caught with alcohol and/or drug paraphernalia, we could be removed from campus housing.

And considering the quality of education here at UT as well as the worthwhile community contributions we make, such as with the PEACE Volunteer Center, the Greek life philanthropy and the numerous other student-led organizations and service projects, it’s plain to see that UT cannot be defined as a party school. “…chock full of out of state rich kids..”

UT is home to a variety of students who come from different nationalities and economic classes. The fact that the university is perceived to be “chock full of out of state rich students who are not smart enough to get into a prestigious private university,” according to Urban Dictionary, is unacceptable.

Every other prestigious university has wealthy students who may or may not flaunt their possessions, and we may have a few who do that here as well, but since when is it a valid reason for the actions of a few to dictate the image of the whole?

That argument lacks rhetorical strength, as it is a hasty generalization. The financial status of UT students and/or our parents does not make us different from everyone else.

We strive to live within our means just as anyone else, and we have chosen to attend a university that we can afford.

The majority of our out of state students have chosen to attend UT not because of our “overpriced” tuition, but because it’s a comprehensive university with more than what we need to succeed.

Don’t judge our campus, new facilities, or the few rich kid cars. Instead judge our personalities; you will be surprised on what you discover.

-Susan Gail Taylor-Gernenz’s FirstYear Writing and Inquiry 102 class

Shared Sacrifice Should Be Divided Equally Amongst Classes

By ALEX CARABALLO Columnist

I often hear the phrase uttered by the talking heads on TV, generally businessmen, that you shouldn’t tax the rich or corporations because they are the “job creators.”

What that essentially implies is that everyone depends on the generous rich who grace us with their jobs.

Aren’t they nice?

If everyone stopped buying products from Wal-Mart tomorrow, would the Waltons still employ its nearly two million employees out of philanthropy?

The answer is no. Those employees provide a service that allows the company to make money, but if there is no demand for the company’s products, there will be no demand for the employees’ services.

It’s not the supposed “benevolent

rich” that create jobs, but the demand for products and services that do.

In a sense, everyone is a job creator.

Every time you buy a Big Mac or even a pack of gum, you create demand for a product, which allows someone to be employed to meet that demand.

The most common argument against raising taxes on corporations or the rich, is that they simply pass it on to everyone else in the form of higher prices.

In effect, it’s a tax on everyone else.

Suppose this is true.

Wouldn’t a shift of the tax burden to the middle and working class simply amount to a tax on businesses in the form of higher wages or less demand for their products?

The economy is not a zero sum game.

If the intent of trickle down economics was to cause a massive redistribution of wealth from the middle class to the top one percent, they succeeded.

The top 400 families in America now control more wealth than the bottom 155 million Americans.

Just think about that for a second. Don’t you just feel the wealth trickling down?

Meanwhile, there is a record number of Americans in poverty.

A total of 43.6 million, or one in seven, Americans live below the poverty line.

It takes real gall, in this era of unprecedented wealth accumulation by so very few, to claim your taxes are too high.

Especially since taxes are at historical lows.

Just take a look at Florida Governor Rick Scott, who spent $73 million of his own money in a vanity run for governor.

He whines about how taxes are so high, but he pays much less in taxes as a share of his income than the average Floridian.

Rick Scott earned $24.8 million between 2007 and 2009 and paid just 14 percent of it in income taxes, which is well below the

35 percent bracket he falls into.

State and municipal taxes do not make much of a difference, as Florida is the second most regressive in terms of taxes in the country.

This means that Rick Scott pays less as a percentage of his income in taxes to Florida than you or I do.

Despite this he wants to cut taxes further. Apparently, he is still paying too much.

The only explanation for this is the sheer greed. They would rather keep their obscene wealth and make even more, instead of giving teachers good pay and building public infrastructure.

The rich should pay their fair share and give the middle class more.

When the middle class does well so do the rich.

Alex Caraballo can be reached at acaraballo21@gmail.com.

16 MARCH 24 2011 | THE MINARET

COMMENTARY

Professors With Guns; Road To A Win-Win Situation?

By RICHARD SOLOMON Columnist

If you reside in a U.S. state, then you’ve heard about Texas pushing to allow firearms on college campuses. I never bother being fully informed on anything, so I still don’t know where the line would be drawn on which teachers would be allowed to have guns and which wouldn’t.

Can only Ph.D.s carry a firearm? Will we say anyone with tenure can hold a handgun but no one with less than five semesters under his or her belt can carry a 9 m.m.?

I’ve heard some good arguments for firearms on campus and some equally intelligent arguments against them. We’ve even discussed it in The Minaret already.

But being the kind of person who works diligently to stay unaware of what those arguments actually are, I’d had to come up with my own. Never one to miss an opportunity to instigate an argument, I decided to take some of the more eccentric professors around our campus and imagine them packing some heat. The results are one part amazing and one part “in bad taste,” whatever that means.

The Adjunct Still a student themselves, they probably go to USF and you’re aware that they spend more time working on their own classes than they do on yours. This person may only be a few years older than you, but, by the virtue of reading off of a PowerPoint, they’re also qualified to shoot a gun. Every

time they walk in with a handgun sticking out of their waistband, you contemplate becoming a teacher, just so you can do the same.

The Oldest Professor You swear that this is the oldest teacher on any campus, ever. She may be adorable in her old age, the kind of person who has actually devoted her life to teaching. Her hands shake from old age when she hands back papers, and yet she’s totally fine dealing with the recoil on a Glock.

I bet she’s totally great at aiming, too.

Somehow you can’t imagine her handling the kickback of a firearm, but if it means protecting you from a student shooter, then you’re okay with it.

The Scatter-Brain He’s all over the place.

He’s been promising to hand back your first test since week two but you don’t think he knows where the assignments are. More often than not he forgets his lesson plan and shows up to class late, always seeming a little bewildered. But even though he can’t remember where he put your papers, he should totally have a handgun. If he loses it somewhere during the day, running from class to class, well, it’s unlikely he even remembered to load the gun, so it’s not like it would do much damage. If a situation arises where he needs to shoot at something, you’re not sure he would even remember to turn the safety off. Actually,

sirjamesthegood/photobucket.com

Professors being able to carry guns into their classes is a situation that may raise a lot of questions.

What would be the requirements needed by a faculty member in order to possess a firearm?

why is this guy even teaching? Forget about firing a gun, he can barely remember what class he’s in. He has no business being on a campus to begin with.

The Jerk Think of that one sarcastic, smug professor. He’s probably good at teaching and uses mocking humor to keep his students interested in an otherwise unexciting lecture.

He’s joked before about a campus shooting and, though he originally opposed the bill to allow guns, too many people agreed with him, so he opposed the opponents just to be a jerk.

He’s either been to the gun range a lot or he’s never even touched a gun, but either way he’d rather pass judgment than fire.

Most would describe him as obnoxious, and he’ll be the first to admit that he’s the last person on earth who should get to hold a gun.

Conclusion I absolutely support professors being allowed to have guns on campuses. I mean, they could be bringing firearms to class anyway, so we may as well just say they can and be done with it. With a group of teachers like those I’ve already listed, how can we not want them to have the ability to shoot someone?

I, for one, am excited at the idea. I will feel infinitely safer in class knowing that my math instructor, who spends more time on 4chan than any teen, has a gun on him.

Plus, won’t faculty meetings be so much more exciting for our professors?

Just think, every single person there has a gun! Imagine denying someone tenure.

This can only be a winning situation.

Richard Solomon can be reached at solomon1414@gmail.com.

17 Respect The ‘Bromance’ to Create Balance in Relationships THE MINARET | MARCH 24 2011

COMMENTARY

By DOMINIQUE C. BARCHUS Love and Sex Columnist

One of the most important things people need to have in life is a good networking system: one that consists of coworkers, acquaintances, but, most importantly, your friends.

Your friends are the people that you go to for advice and who you share good times with. They’ve been there for you through the good, the bad and the ugly. They are the ones that tend to be the closest to you.

Men and women both have this tightknit network of friends.

In general, pastimes and discussions within these groups tend to be the same.

They take part in activities they both enjoy, they go out to the same places together and they discuss topics ranging from sex and relationships, to just plain gossip.

Looking at these friendships broadly, it is easy to see the similarities, but when you actually break down these general topics and get more specific, true differences in male and female relationships are seen.

Normally when people think about the friendships that females have, everything gets pointed to emotions. “Women are so emotional.” I hear that all the time.

Many males tend to think that all women do is sit around watching chick flicks while “eating their feelings,” talking about their problems and how much they hate men, while at the same time, wishing they were in a relationship.

Although this can be true, there is more substance to most female relationships.

When women form these tight alliances, they don’t just see themselves as close friends, they sometimes see themselves as sisters. They will fight and argue with one another, but at the end of the day they will fight for their sister.

Men, whether they want to admit it or not, have a similar relationship and brotherhood. No matter how many dirty jokes go around, foul odors fill the room and video game systems they have to occupy their time, men talk about their emotions and have their bonding time as well.

The only difference is that men get a name for their close friendships with other males: “bromance.” As defined by Urban Dictionary, a bromance is “a non-sexual relationship between two men that are unusually close.”

“I have two ‘bromances.’ I cheat on them from time to time. They just don’t know,” stated Dylan Palamittam.

Tariq Mackey said, “Male bonding, it’s real. 2:30 a.m. boxer time and video games.” Christian Perry said, “He drops beats, I drop frees and together we make music. No homo. I really a have a mixtape.”

In my opinion, having a bromance is okay, but sometimes I question the quality of these relationships.

It seems as though “no homo” is a very popular phrase within the bromance world.

This term is used to rule out any sexual meaning. For example, a guy will say “I love you, man. No homo.” Adding “no homo” to the end of that statement helps to make it clear that the guy loves his friend but in a non-sexual way.

My issue with this “no homo epidemic” being used in the world of bromances is that it is unnecessary to use after everything

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you state. For the most part, guys, it is understood that you don’t want to have sex with another guy when you say “F--- you” to them, that you don’t want them to really kiss your butt or want them anywhere near your “family jewels.”

So, lets try to be mindful of the constant usage of “no homo” and sexual comments that can be taken for exactly what they are. Aside from the questionable parts of a bromance, they are very much needed.

Guys get to relax in their own environment with other people that understand them and, let’s face it, ladies, they need a break from us, just like we need our girl’s nights away from them.

That’s why these social groups are so important. They keep us sane. I don’t know how many times I’ve seen women get all worked up because guys rather go out with their boys in comparison to hanging

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Both sexes need to maintain their outside friendships even when they are in relationships. These friendships can be a source of relief and lessen conflict within romances and “bromances” alike.

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out with their female counterpart all night.

Lets be honest, with relationships and other life stresses, it is important to have a release. For females this may be a day of pampering, shopping and a night on the town with your girls.

For guys this might be video games, beer and sports with the boys. It’s important to have a balance, especially when it comes to a bromance.

Nothing is worse than having a girlfriend feel like she is number two, just because she doesn’t want to swap dirty jokes or play video games. It’s just as bad to have a boyfriend feel the same just because he doesn’t want to swap emotional stories and have spa days. Establish a balance and respect the bromance.

Good luck loving! (No homo.)

Dominique C. Barchus can be reached at dominique.barchus@spartans.ut.edu.

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18 MARCH 24 2011 | THE MINARET

COMMENTARY

Beat Your Insecurities to Lessen Chances of Abuse

By CAMILLA CHEBET

Columnist

Domestic violence takes a new height.

A 29 year-old woman in Wichita sustained a near tragic head trauma when a man who was supposed to be her lover struck her several times in the head with the claw of a hammer.

As with all domestic violence stories, the beatings had been going on for some time.

September 2010, less than a year ago, the victim personally requested that this same man be released from a restraining order, after a domestic violence case was brought against him.

The woman now lies in a coma. The man has been charged with first-degree murder after an attempted suicide.

Thanks to the neighbors who rushed in after hearing disturbing noises, the ambulance was called just in time to get the woman to the hospital.

Domestic violence is nothing new. We have all heard about it and many people know someone who’s been a victim.

Why do some women and men stay in abusive relationships?

Why do people have to die or be damaged under the excuse of loving someone?

Robbie Veldwijk/flickr.com

A fist was traditionally used as a symbol of protection, yet now it is used to victimize by both sexes.

Abusers can smell fear and tend to prey on those with low self-esteem.

It may be true that love is a type of insanity, but in the case of domestic violence it all goes back to self worth and knowing your worth.

Abusers seem to be able to smell insecurity and low self esteem like a dog can smell fear.

They look for a partner that will rely on them to determine their self worth. It is true that domestic violence is about control, but there is also a very close link between domestic violence and self esteem.

In a study about perceptions of control, depressive symptomatology and self esteem of women in abusive relationships, conducted by behavioral scientists T.Orava, P. J McLeod and D.Sharpe, it was found that in a group of 21 abused women versus a control group of 18 women, the abused women did in fact have lower self esteem compared to the control group.

However, anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse. Having a high self esteem and knowing your self-worth will

determine whether you will stay in such a relationship.

When you know yourself and value yourself highly, you will learn to demand respect firstly from respecting yourself and then by earning the respect of those around you; it will become less likely for you to allow someone to disrespect you by putting you down through various forms of abuse.

When you have a high self esteem, you know what you deserve and you will not settle for less.

It is true that victims of domestic abuse may not leave a relationship for reasons such as fear, love and reliance upon others; however, the ability to do so is usually a choice in many abusive relationships, since the signs of abusive relationships can be determined early on.

In the case where the main reason to stay is love, the victim should love their partner enough to let them go, so their partners can work on their own issues.

Love comes from within and you have to love yourself enough to leave someone who will not treat you right.

After all, doesn’t the whole concept of truly loving someone include the ability to do what’s best for them, even if it means letting them go?

Domestic abuse is real; having a self esteem can be the one thing that saves a victim from a fatal end to an abusive relationship.

Camilla Chebet can be reached cchebet@spartans.ut.edu.

The Hook-up Generation Tips Love Over on Its Head

By HANNAH WEBSTER Love and Sex Columnist

Few members of my senior class will ever forget one of the most public hookups to ever be witnessed throughout my four years of high school.

The image of my best friend brazenly making out with a stranger will forever be burned into my head.

No, they were not quietly caressing one another in a corner, or sneaking off into someone’s parents’ room.

Instead, they had collapsed on top of one another in the middle of the kitchen, and were rolling around on the linoleum like it was their duty to mankind.

There was even some face-licking involved. I kid you not.

I knew the guy my friend was “getting acquainted with,” but I was fairly sure they had never been introduced — until then anyway. Everyone else appeared to be just as confused as they relentlessly tried to tear their eyes away from the tongue-on-tongue train wreck.

After much teasing and belittling the following week, the pair, that would otherwise be considered strangers, began to date.

What followed was decidedly one of the messiest relationships in the entire school, but a relationship all the same.

Though this incident is a memorable one for me (and hopefully my friend), this manner of beginning a relationship is becoming increasingly common.

Relationships often begin with an unplanned sexual encounter, a similarly “casual” situation, or as “friends-withbenefits,” before turning into more.

“I believe that people hook-up before being in a relationship,” said freshman Andy Bushnell. “It’s a change of times.

People just don’t want to be as serious.”

If you frequent clubs or bars around UT, you more than likely witness these beginnings every time you go out.

While some are lucky enough to get something functional out of an otherwise non-committal beginning, others are stuck with the mess that accompanies a relationship formed out of little else than obligation.

Close male friends of mine have admitted to dating a girl after they hookedup solely because they felt they had to or that they owed it to the girl.

“Yeah, I guess you feel obligated, “said freshman Gilberto Fagoaga. “Especially if you want to hook up again,” he added with a grin.

But ladies are also guilty. Men aren’t the only ones who nurture a “hit it and quit it” philosophy these days.

“Sometimes you want to see if it will be more,” said freshman Jorgia Stone.

“But sometimes you just don’t. I’ll stay friends, but I’ll make it clear that it won’t go further.”

The realization of this change in relationship tendencies is becoming so widely accepted that many refer to the phenomenon as “the hook-up culture” or the “hook-up generation.”

It is a little sad that our generation is being defined by an increase in promiscuity. But, looking around, you see it everywhere.

Television is filled with high-school and college-themed shows that revolve around “so-and-so” sleeping with “so-and-so’s” boyfriend, while secretly hooking up with the president of the abstinence club (just as an example).

But the reality of this idea is not quite as skanky as many shows — even Glee — make it seem.

When our grandparents were dating, they “wooed” each other. There was a process that came along with finding someone: asking permission, meeting the parents, exchanging the eldest daughter for a goat, etc. But even then, there was still scandalous behavior. It was just not nearly

Hannah Webster/ The Minaret

Like most etiquette in today’s world, traditional forms of entering into relationships have become less formal. We are the hook-up generation, where seriousness is stumbled upon, not intended.

as prominent or accepted — such people were “floozies,” (a word that I personally think needs to be brought back into style).

The methods of courtship in our present hook-up culture are deemed wrong and immoral by many. At the least, I think we can all agree that they are not conventional.

Cinderella and Prince Charming didn’t “get busy” in the back of the castle before the ball. It might seem backward, but hooking up is still a part of getting to know someone. The physical part of a relationship is essential for success.

Anyone who says otherwise can’t be getting anything good. Some just like to get to “that part” sooner rather than later.

Another big part of getting physical faster has to do with the popular idea

amongst youth that serious relationships are unnecessary, even a waste of time during this time in their life. They would rather “just have fun,” but a night of fun can easily lead to real feelings.

A relationship forms almost naturally.

It will be interesting to see exactly how far this goes or what the trend may morph into. I’m getting increasingly used to seeing neighbors bring home different strangers on the weekends.

But at the same time, I often get lectured based on what my parents were doing in their college days.

Maybe it’s not so much a rise in the trend, but an increase in how much we talk about it.

Hannah Webster can be reached at hannahkarine31@gmail.com.

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THE MINARET | MARCH 24 2011

19

20 MARCH 24 2011 | THE MINARET

Sports

Bracketology: Picking With the Heart, Not the Statsheet

By JOE BEAUDOIN Sports Writer

This year, I decided that it is time for a change. I went against what I have been accustomed to doing when picking the winners of each NCAA March Madness game and picked with my heart. I felt a need for change because I have not done particularly well in the last few years.

This is the main reason why I picked the University of Connecticut to win the National Championship. Connecticut has been my favorite team for many years and I feel that Kemba Walker can lead this team to the promised land.

Connecticut’s 9-9 record in the Big East Conference does not stand out as anything special, but they impressed me immensely during the Big East Tournament. They were able to win five consecutive games in five days – something that has never been done before – to win a conference championship.

I do realize that it will be hard to win 11 consecutive games against a highlevel of competition, but crazier things have happened before and during March Madness.

The Huskies have shown that they can play with big leads as well as win the close game. Walker’s game-winning shot against the top-seeded Pittsburgh Panthers in the Big East Tournament was huge for the team. It proved that they can compete against a superior or favored team in competitive play.

Connecticut also has one crucial aspect when it comes to the tourney; they have a strong desire to win. All of the players

come out to play every game and it seems as if they get after every loose ball. Walker is the catalyst on this team and the other players feed off his intensity.

The freshman, Jeremy Lamb, has stepped up recently and averaged 14.4 points per game since the beginning of the Big East Tournament. When Walker is on the bench or has gone cold, Lamb has hit all of the shots to keep the Huskies in games.

Another player that has stepped up is Alex Oriakhi. Oriakhi had 13 games this season with over ten rebounds and in five of those games, he had more than 15. Having a dominant interior presence is extremely valuable for a team to win the National Championship.

Connecticut’s coach, Jim Calhoun, is experienced in the NCAA Tournament.

He has competed in three Final Fours and won two National Championships. Coach

Calhoun’s experience and leadership could prove to play a huge factor in Connecticut’s chances at winning a title this year.

So far my strategy has not panned out and I am currently in last place in the competition that I am having with some friends. Even though I’m in the basement, I am still alive and there is a chance that this new strategy can pay off.

Joe Beaudoin can be reached at jbeaudoin@spartans.ut.edu.

Underdogs Have More Than a Fighting Shot in the Tourney

By MICHAEL PAONESSA Sports Writer

Everyone loves an underdog, right?

As the 2011 NCAA Men’s Basketball Championships kicked off last Thursday, this year’s tournament has proved to be a year of many surprising underdog wins.

For sport fans who did not fill out a bracket, either for money or just for fun, it could be understood how this tournament has been filled with compelling games that show that the better team may not always win.

On the other side of the spectrum, someone who did fill out a bracket might appreciate the underdog’s efforts, but the aftermath of their wins has affected their respected bracket. As teams are ranked from 1-16, one being the best seed and sixteen being the weakest seed, the tournament has proved that the lower seeding teams don’t only give a fighting effort, but they win.

Teams like Butler, Florida State, Virginia Commonwealth, Richmond and Marquette

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have all advanced to the Sweet 16, which is the round of the final sixteen teams.

The underdogs in this year’s tournament have shocked sports fans. In the ESPN. com Tournament Challenge that is free to enter, no participants have a perfect bracket, and some individuals around the University of Tampa campus in particular are struggling with their bracket.

“My bracket is done,” said junior Miles Natorski. “All the teams who won this year are teams I would never have imagined winning, especially the teams that advanced to the Sweet 16 ... Just another year of disappointment.”

The leader of the underdog group has to go to Virginia Commonwealth University

@ With the regular season just over a week away, the Rays will be looking to set their final opening day roster. They play the Astros on Thursday, March 24 at 1:05 p.m. in Kissimmee, Fla.

out of Richmond, VA. They were selected as the final team into the tournament and were chosen to play in the opening round game against the No. 6 seed Georgetown Hoyas.

As analysts griped and complained about the NCAA committee picking VCU to play in the tournament, the team has won three games to advance to the Sweet 16 to everyone’s surprise. Not one participant in the top-10 of the Tournament Challenge had VCU in the Sweet 16.

Teams like Richmond, which is a No. 12 seed upset No. 5 seed Vanderbilt in the second round. They advanced to the next round to beat No. 13 seed Morehead State, a team that had previously upset No. 4

@ Orlando has clinched a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference and still remain the number four seed behind Miami.

They’ll host the New Jersey Nets on Friday, March 25 at 8 p.m.

seeded Louisville. Louisville, just to give some perspective, is a team that made it to their conference tournament final.

It is hard to not root for the underdog teams because it is always a feel-good story to see teams that were not supposed to win do just that. But when a bracket is involved and sometimes the winner receives money, that is the last thing one wants to see.

As participants’ brackets across the nation have perhaps not fulfilled expectations, the tournament has turned into a new experience. Some now get to root for teams who they want to win, instead of picking teams who they think will win.

“I never liked Duke, but since my bracket is so poor I can now root against them and hope the teams I want to win now win,” stated senior Louis Gold.

The NCAA Men’s Basketball Championships resume Thursday, March 24.

Michael Paonessa can be reached at mpaonessa@spartans.ut.edu.

@ With nine games left to play, the Lightning have some ground to make up if they want to win the division over Washington. They will host the rival Hurricanes on Friday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m.

SPORTS

THE MINARET | MARCH 24 2011

21

Athletic Trainer Plays Important Role Off the Field

By SHAWN FERRIS Special to The Minaret

Scott Brickett didn’t always want to be a sports trainer.

He was a pre-med college junior with no direction, but loads of potential.

“I was interested in medicine and I was a former athlete,” Brickett said. “I figured there had to be something out there for me.”

Now 16 years later, the 1995 University of Tampa graduate is in his seventh year as head athletic trainer.

“I really enjoy the diversity of the things I get to do,” Brickett said. “I get to actively work with college students instead of just sitting in the office.”

Brickett lately has lately been involving himself with baseball, his favorite sport to advise.

He participates in the throwing program that he himself put together to help rehab a pinched nerve in junior pitcher Ryan Kennedy’s neck by long-tossing with the St. Petersburg College transfer a few times a week. This means that he has to be able to throw the ball up to 150 feet.

“What can I say? I like working with shoulder injuries,” Brickett said.

Red-shirt sophomore Aaron Gerbasi, a very important part of last year’s Spartan baseball team, which reached the Division II College World Series, knows the importance of a good athletic trainer after he spent the entire 2009 season sidelined with an elbow injury.

“Brickett is an extremely professional trainer who actually cares about your well being,” said Gerbasi, who posted a 2-0

Shawn Ferris/The Minaret

University of Tampa graduate Scott Brickett working on varsity Spartan pitcher Nate Titus’ ankle.

Brickett is currently in his 17th year as head athletic trainer for Tampa.

record with a 2.42 ERA after returning from injury last year. “That’s hard to find.”

What is sometimes more important than actually giving an injured athlete a suitable rehabilitation program is keeping their psyche up. It’s not uncommon for injured athletes to be a little downtrodden about their injuries, which can make rehab a tough place to be. Gerbasi wasn’t the only one who felt well cared for under Brickett’s guidance.

Tony Suarez, a junior infielder who dislocated his left shoulder in January, spends more than his fare share of time in the training room with Brickett these days. Suarez, following Brickett’s shoulder program, has improved dramatically over the last few weeks, doing a variety of

different exercises which help strengthen the muscles around his previously dislocated shoulder. “[Brickett] is very knowledgeable about sports medicine and no matter what your sport is or what you’re there for, he’s always there to help you,” Suarez said.

Brickett certainly has all the credentials.

Before becoming the head athletic trainer at UT, he was assistant athletic trainer at Hillsborough Community College and was on staff at Healthsouth Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinic since ‘96.

Additionally, Brickett served as a volunteer athletic trainer at UT and with Hillsborough High Schools. He was also the head trainer for the NFL Europe Scottish Claymores in 2002 and the AFL

Tampa Bay Storm in 2001. A member of the National Athletic Trainers Association, Brickett is also certified and state licensed.

“Having the college students around makes my job a lot more fun,” Brickett said.

However, it’s not all fun and games for the Baltimore, Md. native. A typical day of work includes budgeting, medical recordkeeping and overseeing a staff of about four other individuals, not to mention the prevention and rehabilitation of all the student-athletes; which is why one of Brickett’s long-term goals is to work his way into administration, something that would provide him with the chance to have a stable nine-to-five job, instead of the unpredictable hours he currently works on a daily basis.

“An administration job makes having kids and a family a whole lot easier,” Brickett said.

As head athletic trainer, he is required to attend even the road trips to other states, which, depending on the trip and the sport, can have him traveling with the team from Thursday morning all the way through Monday morning. He even traveled with the women’s soccer team to Europe this past summer.

You’re likely to find the 39-year-old Brickett in the training room, probably smiling and cracking a joke while he answers a student intern’s question about ligament tears and tapes a basketball player’s ankles all at the same time.

“I guess you can say this has become my life’s passion,” Brickett said.

Shawn Ferris can be reached at sferris22@gmail.com.

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22 MARCH 24 2011 | THE MINARET

SPORTS

UT Basketball Season Ends at Conference Tournament Spartans go 22-7 on the year, but do not earn bid for south regionals

By MILES PARKS Sports Writer

On paper, the University of Tampa men’s basketball team had a great year.

They went 22-7, and won their quarterfinal game in the Sunshine State Conference tournament before losing to regular season champion Rollins in the Semifinals. To say the Spartans exceeded expectations would be an understatement.

But a season that showed so much potential after a school record 16-0 start, ended without an invitation to the NCAA Division II tournament.

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Abby Sanford/The Minaret

Junior Osby Kelly will be a staple for the UT basketball game looking into next year.

Guard Rashad Callaway, a senior, has been the face of UT basketball for the past four seasons. He’s garnered numerous awards throughout his career. Most recently he was selected to the first team All-South Region, and also to the SSC AllTournament team for his play this season.

After an 11-16 season last year, Callaway said he’s enjoyed UT rebounding to a winning record, but that they didn’t achieve every goal he had in mind.

“It’s definitely heart-breaking, knowing that I wasn’t able to bring the team to the tournament my senior year.” Callaway said, “We went 22-7. Onlookers, if they saw that record, they’d say ‘oh, they had a good year.’”

“But not making the tournament, I have no words for that.”

According to Callaway, the hot start ended up attributing to their downfall at the end. He said the entire team got complacent and began to falter mentally. It showed on the stat sheet.

A team that seemed to play shut down defense the first two months, began giving up 70 points regularly.

But UT fought hard at the end. They showed glimpses of their early season form in consecutive wins over SSC rival Florida Tech to close the season and begin the SSC tournament. They pushed a very talented Rollins team to the brink of elimination, coming back from a 15-point deficit to lead 62-57 with five minutes remaining.

But this season, the story was about not finishing. Rollins stormed back with 10 unanswered points to close out the

game and win, 67-62. Had UT won, and advanced to the SSC final, they would’ve had the opportunity to get Coach Richard Schmidt’s 600th career win. But as it stands now, Coach Schmidt will enter the 2011 season with 598 victories.

There is an unsteady feeling about next season for the Spartan men. They’re losing five seniors, including three regular starters.

Glyn Hunter (6’6”) and Fred Woods (6’7”) made up UT’s post presence this season, but neither will be returning in the fall.

Woods said he’s not too worried about size for next year though, and that he’s got some big hopes for some of the younger tall men.

“I expect to see things from [Stefon] Barfield and Corey Pelot,” Woods said, “They’ve shown some glimpses of some good stuff they can do and hopefully they can bring it to the table next year.”

Guard Anthony Griffis says that if Pelot and Barfield combine, then they can equal the kind of presence that Woods brings. He laughs as he says it, and it’s not a knock on the two players who have shown great potential. Rather, it’s a compliment to Woods who blocked a team high 48 shots and compiled six double-doubles this year.

Griffis, a junior and the second leading scorer on the team behind Callaway, is going to be expected to lead the team next season. As a transfer, it’s going to be only his second season in a UT uniform, but he’s already shown that he can dominate a game.

Despite the SSC tournament loss to Rollins, Griffis showed the kind of impact

player he can be in a pressure packed environment. He scored a team high 23 points on 10 for 14 shooting, while also grabbing a team high eight rebounds. If there’s a candidate for stardom on this team next year, it’s Anthony Griffis.

The men’s basketball team had an extremely emotional season. After their school record 16 straight wins, they lost seven of 13 to end up 4th in the SSC and without the tournament opportunity they had been striving for all year. But in no way can this season be considered a failure.

The Spartans were ranked 7th in the SSC Preseason Poll, barely ahead of Barry and St. Leo who both finished with losing records. UT won 22 games and got students at UT to care about basketball again; over 1100 people showed up for their January game against Florida Southern.

With a strong recruiting class, you can expect the team to be in the thick of the SSC next year, looking for the tournament bid that’s eluded them since the ‘07-‘08 season.

The ‘10-‘11 basketball season shouldn’t be remembered by the early ending, but by the unbelievable beginning.

“I’m happy with how the season went.

It’s the first time we had a season with less than 10 losses in a while, and it felt good to start 16-0,” Fred Woods said, “It’s something I’ll tell my kids if I have them.”

“I just wish it could’ve been a little longer.”

Miles Parks can be reached at mparks@ spartans.ut.edu.

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THE MINARET | MARCH 24 2011

SPORTS

23

Junior Transfer Plays a Solid Second Base for UT

By JOHN HILSENROTH Sports Writer

The University of Tampa baseball team has started this season a bit more inconsistent than usual. The team started off 1-2, before going on an eight-game win streak. The win streak came to a halt, and led to the team losing five of their next nine games. Currently, the Spartans are on a six-game win streak to put their record at 19-7.

“

He’s one of the best defensive players that have come to UT.

”

-Coach Joe Urso

Sweeping Lynn University last weekend was crucial and it put UT back into third place in the Sunshine State Conference behind undefeated Florida Southern and Barry.

“We’re getting there,” said Coach Urso. “We’re getting better defensively, and most importantly cutting down on all of the walks.”

The team walked seven batters and hit two more in the first game of the Saturday double-header against Lynn.

“We have to pound the strike zone and go after guys early. Our pitchers have to be contact pitchers, not strikeout pitchers,” said Urso.

There were 10 UT baseball players drafted in last year’s Major League Baseball draft, more than nearly all other Division I schools. However, despite losing all but one starter from last year’s lineup, Urso likes this team’s willingness and ability to play some team-oriented small ball.

“The personality of this year’s team, I actually like a little better,” said Urso. “The guys have unselfish at-bats and don’t mind making an out to move a guy over; they’re a little more team oriented this year.”

One of those unselfish players is junior Raiko Alfonso.

Third on the team with 23 RBIs, Alfonso has played a solid second base all year and has turned 11 double plays. The Cuban-born Florida International transfer has played well and come through in the clutch on multiple occasions in his first year as a Spartan, displayed by his seven multiple RBI games, good enough for second on the team.

“He’s one of the best defensive players that have come to UT,” said Urso. “He has great hands, and is so smooth at turning double plays.”

The Spartan infielder has found success at the plate as well during his collegiate career. Before transferring to UT, Alfonso played two years at FIU, where he hit a shade over .300 in both seasons.

Now a member of the Spartans, Alfonso said he is very happy with his choice to play ball for Coach Urso and this continuously successful program.

“I chose the University of Tampa because it had a great baseball program tradition. The fact that they had 10 players drafted last year didn’t hurt either,” he joked. “I love it here.”

Samantha Battersby/The Minaret

Second baseman Alfonso alongside his other half of the middle infield, Patrick Donahue. Alfonso touts a .951 fielding percentage through 26 games as a Spartan.

With a .951 fielding percentage, Alfonso has proven to be consistent with his glove around the infield, and he has come through at the plate when his team needed him most. He still strives to improve his game, however.

“I want to improve my hitting and become more consistent at the plate,” said Alfonso. “I love the situation of two outs, bases loaded. Everybody wants to be able to play in that situation.”

Through 26 games this season, in which Alfonso has started all but one, he touts a .274 batting average to go along with 21 runs scored. Coach Urso thinks with the help of Hitting Coach John Ramos, Alfonso will continue to improve as a switch hitter.

“He’s been a doubles guy all his life, but with the change in bats, we need him to

be more of a line drive guy. We may even need him to drag bunt, which is something he has never done in his life,” said Urso.

The change in bats Coach Urso referred to was implemented around the NCAA this past offseason.

The new model of bat has a thicker wall. Although it is still aluminum, it plays more like a wooden bat, taking some of the bounce off of hitter’s swings. Regardless of the change, Alfonso has remained a doubles’ guy. He is currently second on the team with nine doubles. On a team with a plethora of roster changes going into this season, Alfonso has been a constant starter and contributor for the Spartans.

“Raiko’s a gamer all right,” said Urso.

John Hilsenroth can be reached at jhilsenroth@spartans.ut.edu.

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All-time Winningest Coach Becomes a Spartan Whipple starts fourth lacrosse program at Division II level

By KYLE BENNETT Asst. Sports Editor

In early February, the University of Tampa athletic department announced the addition of a new sport to begin competitive play in spring 2012: men’s lacrosse.

The lacrosse program joins a laundry list of programs at UT; programs that have compiled 12 NCAA II National Championship titles and 72 first place conference finishes.

First year head coach Rory Whipple anticipates continuing the university’s athletic success, right from the start.

“My expectations are very high. I honestly like to think that if we can attract the right kids that we can compete for a conference championship,” he said.

Whipple comes to UT as the all-time winningest coach in NCAA Division II and has now started lacrosse programs at four schools. He was previously at Florida Southern College where he started the program and spent two years at the helm for the Mocs.

The Spartans will compete in the Deep South Conference along with four other Florida schools and four schools from North Carolina. Rollins, Florida Tech, Florida Southern, Saint Leo, Catawba, Wingate, Mars Hill, Lenoir-Rhyne and the Spartans will make up the Deep South.

In his second season at Florida Southern, Whipple led his non-scholarship Moccasins to an 11-10 win over No. 10 Saint Leo Lions, the eventual conference champions. The 1976 Cortland State graduate recognizes that he will be in a similar situation at UT and budgets will be tight for his team.

“We don’t have much scholarship money to offer so we have to sell the school and the surroundings,” Whipple explained.

“Our selling point is the fact that we are a medium-size university and we are located

in Tampa. Those two things alone are very appealing for kids in the northeast.”

He went on to explain that from “Maryland on up [further north] are hotbeds for lacrosse.”

Whipple’s experiences range not only across the state, but also across the world.

In 1993, he spent time in Japan to work on developmental programs before being named the head coach of the Iroquois National team in 1994 where he led the team to a fifth-place finish at the World Lacrosse Championships in England.

“Throughout my years of coaching and recruiting I’ve certainly built up a lot of friendships with high school coaches that I can call and help me get connected with players,” Whipple said. “I think I’m pretty well known [in the Lacrosse community] and certainly from my biography, players will know what I’ve done and where I’ve been.”

Coach Whipple’s main focus is, as expected, recruiting. Although there was already a club lacrosse team, that team is not his focus.

He is working on sorting through accepted incoming freshmen, to see who had lacrosse experience in high school as well as speaking with junior college players.

“It’s hard for me to say how many players will make the program from the club team until I see them play,” Whipple said. “We’ve reached out to most of the junior colleges looking for transfers and we have a handful of kids that are looking at us. That would give us juniors that have played two years of college lacrosse.”

Having started a program which was building success, some would wonder why Whipple left Florida Southern to start a new program, for the fourth time.

“I hate to use the word stole,” said Athletic Director Larry Marfise during a

Sports Information

Coach Whipple being announced as head coach of the newly formed lacrosse program in late February. Whipple’s team will begin competitive play in the spring semester of 2012.

press conference, “But we stole him from Florida Southern.”

Whipple described the situation as a new opportunity for him. To draw students from the northeast, he plans to sell the same positives that attracted him to coaching in Florida. Lacrosse is a new kind of sport that the UT campus hasn’t seen since the football program was abolished in 1974; a contact sport.

“I’m excited to be here; it’s a great situation for the school to help build school spirit. It’s a contact sport, which you don’t have, and it’s a spectator sport that spectators enjoy watching. I think it’s going to bring a lot of excitement to the campus,” he said.

He also went on to talk about the

growth opportunities and why things seem to mesh so well for a lacrosse program at UT. The facilities are a big factor, Whipple explained.

“We have on-campus facilities here which we didn’t have at [Florida] Southern; on-campus practice facilities here and the plan going forward is to build more locker rooms.”

Coach Whipple anticipates fielding a team between 36-45 student-athletes and hopes to have four assistant coaches.

“We will build a quality staff once we get to that point.” The Spartans will begin their inaugural lacrosse campaign during the spring 2012 semester.

Kyle Bennett can be reached at minaret. sports@gmail.com.

Extra Innings OF/DH Damon Elder

By DANIEL FEINGOLD Sports Editor

Baseball The No. 10 University of Tampa Spartans swept conference foe Lynn University in a three-game series this past weekend by a combined score of 29-11.

These wins for the Spartans are coming after the team dropped its SSC opening series to Nova Southeastern.

With the three victories, UT improved to 18-7 overall and 4-2 in the Sunshine State Conference. The Fighting Knights of Lynn dropped an even 13-13 and 2-4 in conference play. Led by a strong pitching performance by righty Josh Thrailkill in the series opener, UT blanked Lynn 140 on Friday night. Thrailkill allowed just three hits in six innings, picking up his second victory on the year.

Then, in the final game of the series, right fielder Damon Elder knocked two out of the park, driving in four RBIs as he

Briefs from the UT Sports Scene

notched his first two homeruns in 2011. A blowout victory against Florida Memorial on Tuesday night gave the Spartans their 19th win this year.

More on Damon Elder Behind his strong performance throughout all three games against Lynn this past weekend, the UT designated hitter was named Sunshine State Conference Baseball Player of the Week. In the three games against the Fighting Knights, Elder, a junior, had five hits in eight at-bats. He tallied an extra base hit in each game, and notched seven RBIs with a 1.1750 slugging percentage for the weekend.

Softball Tampa softball, ranked 13th in the nation, improved to 23-3 on the year with a sweep over Florida Tech. The women Spartans are now 8-1 in conference play, trailing the in-conference undefeated Rollins Tars and Barry Buccaneers. UT won in walk-off fashion in the first game of the series via a 9th inning base knock

from Brittany Hipple. Junior Deanna Henriott went the distance on the mound while striking out 15, picking up her 14th win of the year. In the double-header on Saturday, the Spartans again won both games by just one run behind solid pitching performances from both Henriott and senior Kari Walsh. With two wins in a double-header on Monday night against Hillsdale College, UT made it five straight wins, climbing to 25-3 on the year.

Henriott Racks up Another No-No Spartan softball pitcher Deanna Henriott tossed her third no-hitter of the season in one of the two UT wins versus Hillsdale. She went a full five innings, striking out nine and allowing just one batter on base via a walk. She now has a 16-1 record this season.

Tennis UT tennis won its second straight match on Saturday, March 19. They were the victors over Bentley University, taking the match 7-2. The Spartans, ranked No.

Midfielder Alex Knaggs

40 in the nation, now stand at 4-7 overall, looking for their first win in conference play this year (0-4). They’ll visit conference opponent Lynn University this weekend in hopes of doing just that.

Men’s Golf Following a seventh place finish against Division I teams such as the University of Connecticut and St. John’s University at the Caribbean Intercollegiate Classic, the UT men’s golf team will travel to Muscle Shoals, Ala. for the North Alabama Invitational. The tournament takes place on March 28 and 29.

Spartan Overseas Freshman soccer player Alex Knaggs is currently in training camp with the Trinidad & Tobago U-20 team, netting a goal for the squad in a game against Depor FC. As a Spartan this past year, Knaggs, a native of Port of Spain, Trinidad, saw action in 13 games.

Daniel Feingold can be reached at minaret.sports@gmail.com.