Niner Times: September 17, 2013

Inside this issue:

Fighting for their Brother

UNC Charlotte’s Sigma Phi Epsilon chapter works to raise money for one brother’s battle with leukemia. p. 6

Officially armed

The Queen City Army is now an official university organization. p. 9

“Catfish” to campus

Nev Schulman of MTV’s “Catfish” will be on campus next week. p. 17

A PRODUCT OF STUDENT NINER MEDIA • THE UNIVERSITY OF 23, NORTH SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 2013 CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTE • VOL. 26, ISSUE 4 NINERONLINE.COM

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SEPT. 17 - 23, 2013

Volume 26, Number 4 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

MANAGING EDITOR

EDEN CREAMER

PATRICK BOGANS

EDITOR@NINERONLINE.COM

MANAGING@NINERONLINE.COM

NEWS EDITOR

SPORTS EDITOR

CLAIRE DODD

LIBBY WEIHSMANN

NEWS@NINERONLINE.COM

SPORTS@NINERONLINE.COM

A&E EDITOR

LIFESTYLE EDITOR

LIZ LANIER

MICHELLE LIRINGIS LIFESTYLE@NINERONLINE.COM

A&E@NINERONLINE.COM

COPY EDITOR

PHOTO COORDINATOR

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CHRIS CREWS

ASHLEY SPEECE

ASSISTANT EDITORS Matt Chapman, Lee Hutchison, Carrie Nowell, Leanna Pough

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COVER PHOTOS BY EDEN CREAMER, AMANDA DUKE, MICHELLE LIRINGIS • INSIDE PHOTO BY CHRIS CREWS

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

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Panhellenic recruitment UNC Charlotte’s fall recruitment for the Panhellenic Association is Tuesday, Sept. 17 through Sunday, Sept. 22. There are six UNC Charlotte sorority chapters a part of the Panhellenic Association and all participate in the annual fall recruitment CLAIRE DODD NEWS EDITOR

ΑΔΠ

ΧΩ

Alpha Delta Pi

Chi Omega

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ΣΚ

Sigma Kappa

1874

Personal growth, friendship, service and loyalty; bound by a promise.

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Zeta Tau Alpha

1895

1851 Sisterhood, values and ethics, high academic standards and social responsibility

1850

ΖΤΑ

Friendship, personal integrity, service to others, academic excellence and intellectual pursuits, community and campus involvement, personal and career development

1870

1880

1890

ΚΔ Kappa Delta

1897

Growth through lifetime learning, responsibility for our own integrity and ethical actions, engagement in social and civic interests, altruistic service to others, truth and loyalty to each other

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1898

Intensifying of friendship, the fostering of a spirit of love, the creating of such sentiments, the performing of such deeds, and the molding of such opinions as will be conducive to the building up of a purer and nobler womanhood in the world.

1900

1910

ΔΖ Delta Zeta

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Friendship, service and scholarship

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PaTs on the back for new bus app

The Green, Yellow and Red Lines of the UNC Charlotte transit and shuttle system can now be tracked by students using the UNCC NextRide app. FILE PHOTO

LEE HUTCHISON

ASST. NEWS EDITOR

UNC Charlotte Business Services and Parking and Transportation Services (PaTS) released a mobile app called “UNCC NextRide” which provides users a real time transit feed for Campus Shuttle buses and SafeRide evening safety transport.

NextRide provides the tracking on a map with arrival predictions, schedules and service alerts. Routes, schedules, arrivals and bus movement can be seen in real time, in one place.

The app’s real-time GPS tracking map shows the current location of all vehicles with color-coded route, stop and vehicle icons concluding no room for confusion.

Locations of Campus Shuttle updates every 20 seconds, while SafeRide vehicles update every five seconds.

“UNCC NextRide will increase ridership because more people will be able to time their transit needs, track bus locations and estimat-

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ed arrival times. I think more riders will be happier because they no longer have to wonder how long they will wait until the next bus,” says Regina Y. Wood, Transportation Supervisor of UNC Charlotte Department of PaTS. Ride Systems published the application, which was released on Aug. 7. The company plans to add a text message alert system in early October. When the user simply sends a request text message including the stop ID, they will then receive a reply with arrival time estimates.

UNC Charlotte NextRide was created for Apple iOS and Android smartphones.

The app may be downloaded for free on the iPhone / iPad from the App Store or on an Android from Google Play. There is also an online version for your convenience.

The online version is avaliable at http://nextride.uncc.edu/.

The online version of UNCC NextRide.

Photo courtesy of UNCC NextRide.

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NINERTIMES

POLICE BLOTTER SEPT. 10 - SEPT. 13

ACCIDENTS SEPT. 10 LEE HUTCHISON

ASST. NEWS EDITOR

Upon the recital of the Pledge of Allegiance and a quick review of last week’s minutes, 23 members of UNC Charlotte’s Student Government got down to business during the Thursday, Sept. 12 meeting of the Student Senate.

Two New Campus Clubs

Two new organizations appealed to the council intent on being recognized as official student organizations.

The Charlotte 49ers’ Cricket Club was the first of the pair.

The vice president of the club acted as the spokesman for the club.

He served as a professional cricket player for 10 years in India prior to coming to UNC Charlotte. His speech explained the importance of both players and fans obtaining knowledge of the sport that they love.

In addition, he suggested the Charlotte 49ers’ Cricket Club be a valuable resource to those seeking such knowledge.

UNC Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University both have a Cricket club and team, which the Niners plan to compete against.

The club’s longterm goal is TUESDAY SEPT. 17

@UNCCWeather FOLLOW FOR FORECASTS AND WARNINGS

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77°F

Mostly cloudy. Low of 63°

to have an official Club Cricket team registered with the Recreational Department.

Robert Pope represented Phi Beta Lambda, the second prospective club. Phi Beta Lambda is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, the collegiate affiliate of the Future Business Leaders of America.

The organization was on campus a few years ago with a charter from the national organization but was never recognized as an official UNC Charlotte organization.

The club seeks to augment the business skills of students regardless of major and create effective citizens as well as ethical business professionals.

The senate unanimously voted yes to each of the organizations becoming official UNC Charlotte clubs.

Tension Upon Vote

Senator Jay stepped down from his position as the Chair of the Internal Affairs Committee.

Brady Nails, president of the student body, nominated Davonte Belle to serve as the new Secretary for Internal Affairs Committee.

Belle has served as Internal WEDNESDAY SEPT. 18

79°F

Mostly cloudy.

Low of 59°

Affairs chair before under the Dugan/Fouts term. The senate voted almost unanimously yes with the exception of Senator Justin whom stated “nay.”

Regardless of the senator’s “nay,” Belle was enacted as chairman.

Delegated Funds

A significant amount of money was thrown around at the meeting. The senate dished out $14,467 to various organizations.

Clubs that requested event grants were IFC, Chinese Students, ASCE, Alpha Kappa Alpha and Zeta Beta Tau, STARS, Kappa Delta and Concerts and Causes totaling 87 percent of total delegated funds.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon, BCM and UNCC Maps received the remaining 13 percent of total grants that will be used for travel expenses.

The Interfraternity Council received a grant of $3,000 to fund “New Member Education Day” whereas the Panhellenic Association was denied their request for the same amount for their “New Member Education Day.”

• Poplar Lane, driver of vehicle one struck vehicle two

SEPT. 11

• University Road, driver backed into a handicap door opener

SEPT. 12

• Van Landingham Road, officer responded to a call in reference to a motor vehicle accident

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• Union Deck, officer responded to a motor vehicle accident

CALLS FOR SERVICE SEPT. 10

• Alumni Way, officer responded to a peeping tom incident at Moore Hall

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• South Village Deck, subject reported his vehicle was damaged while parked and unattended

SEPT. 13

• Alumni Way, officer responded to a call regarding an underage individual consuming alcohol

VANDALISM SEPT. 13

THURSDAY SEPT. 19

82°F

Partly sunny. Low of 60°

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FRIDAY

SEPT. 20

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• Lot 25, subject reported her vehicle was damaged while parked and unoccupied For more information on Mecklenburg County arrests, visit arrestinquiryweb.co.mecklenburg.nc.us

Partly sunny.

Low of 63°

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Fighting for their brother SigEp member Jack Bretz was diagnosed with acute leukemia at the end of August.

However his brothers stand beside him armed and ready to fight the battle together CLAIRE DODD NEWS EDITOR

On Aug. 24, a brother of UNC Charlotte’s Sigma Phi Epsilon (SigEp) was unfortunately diagnosed with acute leukemia, a treatable yet serious form of blood cancer. In an effort to support Jack Bretz and his fight, the brothers of SigEp have coordinated a philanthropy event called “Shave a SigEp.” “The plan is simple,” explains Ian Petrere, Vice President of Member Development for SigEp. “We are not looking to raise millions of dollars through this event… We are, however, looking to rally together to show our brother how many people support him in his fight.”

Individual brothers have volunteered to shave their heads once the set amount of money they’re trying to raise is reached. Tuesday through Thursday of last week, the fraternity set up tables near the Student Union with jars that contained the brother’s name, picture and amount of money they strived to raise.

“The best feeling about doing this is that UNC Charlotte’s campus can come together for a person who has a life altering disease, and doing such a small thing as shaving our heads and our beards that the campus will want to come together to help a great cause,” said Phillip Stack, an Athletic Training major and brother of SigEp. Stack plans on doing more than just shaving his head. “I am also shaving my beard, which I haven’t shaved in over a year,” Stack says with a laugh.

Hazen Warlick, Bretz’s Big Brother in the fraternity, includes, “If you see a bunch of bald guys

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On their last day of fundraising on campus, SigEp was more than shocked to see their brother jack Bretz come by to visit. Photo by Claire Dodd

walking around campus in the next few weeks, you’ll know who it is and who it’s for.”

Warlick has been there since Bretz found out the bad news.

“He called me just before our annual ‘Balanced Man Scholarship Banquet,’” Warlick recalls. “It was so out of the blue. But after the initial shock, we were all ready to get behind him 100 percent. We

are a family, he is our brother, and he would have done the same for any of us.”

This experience has especially wowed the new brothers of the fraternity. Colin Jareb, a freshman, explains that the impact of the experience should spread through not just the brotherhood but also the community, state and even the

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world.

“The whole reason I decided to join SigEp was because they seemed to break the stereotype of fraternities and Greek life in general,” said Jareb. “This event definitely has shown me that we can come together as a brotherhood and do more for the community and just for the world. Hopefully it leaves an impact on the rest of the

NINERTIMES

The fraternity utilized a massive sign to promote awareness of the event and fight against leukemia. The sign was previously used by the brotherhood for Rush Week.

All photos by Claire Dodd

UNC Charlotte community as well.”

In Bretz’s eyes, “I figured I would just tell my Big [Brother] [Warlick] and he would tell everyone else and then it would slowly blow over.

But instead I feel like everyone I’ve ever met and their grandma has come out to support me. I just didn’t think it’d be big news.”

Michael Brennan, president of the fraternity, has created a way for interested donors to pledge money online. Their goal is to reach $5,000.

All of the proceeds made online and in the jars will be sent to the American Cancer Society, which will then be utilized for leukemia research and treatment.

On Tuesday, their first day of fundraising, they reached $1,035 which was the highest amount of money raised between all three days.

On Wednesday, the amount came to $700.

On their last day, SigEp raised just over $800, coming to a total of about $2,600 from online and jar donations for all three days.

The numbers continue to elevate online even after tabling for three days.

On Thursday, Bretz shocked his brothers by

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visiting the table. Even though he had to reject hugs for the sake of spreading germs, he wore a smile and gave an “elbow hug,” which con-

We were all ready to get behind him 100 percent.

We are a family, he is our brother, and he would have done the same for any of us.

-Hazen Warlick

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sisted of touching his elbow to another person’s elbow.

It was almost as if the sickness was put to the side for the time being. Bretz wore a giant smile on his face as he conversed with his friends and donors.

It has been reported that the Grand President of Sigma Phi Epsilon was in town last week. During his visit, Brennan and he stopped by Bretz’s house to meet him Saturday morning.

In Brennan’s words, “There is no position in any level of this fraternity, local or national, more important than his.” This is an incredibly honorable and memorable event for the brothers.

SigEp has utilized social media to its extent in order to spread the word about “Shave a SigEp.” And evidently, it has paid off.

The Facebook event “Shave a SigEp” has 351 confirmed members since Sunday morning and is increasing every day.

Not only is Bretz popular on Facebook, but he is also becoming a favorite hashtag on Twitter. The hashtag #JACKedup has spread like wild fire.

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Even the widely followed UNC Charlotte Girl Twitter account has joined the fight, tweeting, “Go to the Student Union all this week to get #JACKedup and help raise money for Leukemia patients! #ShaveASigEp.” The Greek community has showed a tremendous amount of curiosity and encouragement, which has played a vital role in the word spreading on campus.

According to Petrere, after hearing about the cause, universities such as Coastal Carolina and Pennsylvania State have sent their support, as well as off-campus organizations.

When asked what the plans were after “Shave A SigEp,” Brennan reported that there is discussion concerning the continuation of this event as an annual philanthropy for their chapter.

“We would ideally like to make the event in Jack’s name and consistently donate the proceeds to a cancer-based research. We have big things in store and we want all of it to be for Jack,” said Brennan.

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As Bretz continues to live with a positive outlook, he explains that he could not be more thrilled about continuing this charity after he has fought his battle.

“I didn’t expect any of this,” said Bretz. “I didn’t ask for any of this

to happen, but now that it has I’m going to own it and make the best of it.”

If you would like to make a donation, visit http://www.gofundme. com/48pf08?pc=fb_cr.

Here are three of the largest jars that sat on the table during fundraising, including a jar for Student Body President Brady Nails, a member of SigEp. Photo by Claire Dodd

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OFFICIALLY ARMED Queen City Army officially becomes a student organization

JESSE OLMSTEAD INTERN

As organized as they were, Queen City Army (QCA) lacked only one thing that set them apart from other organizations on campus.

However, glancing at the passionate soccer fans at the 49ers next home game against Campbell – nothing will seem different.

They will still be cheering and singing.

There will be one major difference though.

They will be official.

“We are now an official student organization,” Nick Lavid said, opening up the QCA’s introductory meeting.

Lavid is the president of the club for the fall semester.

The Army – though recently titled as official – are nothing new to the 49ers soccer scene.

Many of the faces at the meetings have cheered on Charlotte’s soccer teams over the past year.

“The first year QCA was really a thought was last season,” said Josh Fisk, the newly named treasurer.

“We just really had a great turnout at all our games. QCA was starting to form.” Lavid and Fisk took major roles in getting the fan base from faces in the crowd to face-toface with SGA. Nevertheless, they were not alone.

Megan Rose, vice president, said, “We went with Ryan Hess, who’s now in Italy.

He helped us go through the papers for becoming a student organization. Josh and Nick went through long nights of working on the constitution. Then Josh and me went in and talked to SGA. We finally got approved.”

SGA joined a long list of supporters of the Army. A few key enthusiasts – members of the 49er’s men’s soccer team – showed up to the introductory meeting, including the likes of Giuseppe Gentile.

During the meeting, chatting between members of the organization and members of the soccer team signified the respect felt from

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Photo courtesy of the Queen City Army Twitter page

both sides.

“It contributes that much more to the atmosphere, knowing that we’re all really close personal friends with the guys on the field,” said Fisk.

With upcoming events already planned, QCA is looking to grow their organization.

As QCA’s constitution says, “Any student in good standing with UNC Charlotte can become a member of QCA,” and “all students expressing an interest in the club are invited to come to a general meeting.”

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

After interest is expressed, the student must pay the membership dues for that term.

Membership dues are “determined on an annual basis by the executive board of QCA.” Article III Section III of the QCA Constitution says, “Any member of QCA can, at any time, voluntarily withdraw their membership from the organization.”

With gaining their official status behind them, Lavid and his organization can go back to doing what they love: providing support to Charlotte’s varsity soccer teams.

According to their constitution in Article II Section I, it states, “QCA is designed to provide student support to the varsity soccer teams at UNC Charlotte by promoting and attending matches, advertising team events and leading the student section in establishing chants and traditions that contribute to the overall atmosphere of Charlotte Soccer.”

“When possible, QCA will also travel to certain away matches, promoting ourselves to be among the most dedicated fans in the nation.”

Article II Section II states, “QCA is willing to abide by all UNC Charlotte policies and guidelines, especially relating to on or off campus activities which our club may sponsor or in which we may participate.

For every student organization on UNC Charlotte’s campus, funding is something that can be problematic for some.

In Article VI Section I of the QCA Constitution, it says, “QCA plans to finance its activities through any membership dues, fundraising, donations and UNCC Student Government Association grants and funding.”

Using social media, students looking to join can contact the Army in a number of different ways.

Queen City Army can be found on OrgSync and on Twitter @QueenCityArmy.

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FRESH BEGINNING Charlotte 49ers men’s soccer player Brandt Bronico is new to the school, but not to the game

JESSE OLMSTEAD INTERN

He may be new to the school, but he’s not new to the game.

Brandt Bronico is a serious force on the pitch. With combined strength, touch and mental toughness – number 11 on the

49ers men’s soccer team has given himself the chance to start and receive valuable minutes, all as a freshman.

“I can’t really see myself doing anything other than playing soc-

Freshman Brandt Bronico. Photo by Chris Crews

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cer,” said Bronico.

Before arriving in Charlotte Bronico had a career many athletes could hang their hats on.

He won two consecutive state championships at Wesleyan Christian Academy, and was named NSCAA All-America senior year.

During club soccer, Brandt played with North Carolina Fusion Academy, and over the summer played a big role with Carolina Dynamo in the Premier Development League (PDL).

The word “stop” is not in midfielder’s vocabulary, however.

Everything is an attempt to get better.

“Playing with Dynamo, the guys are a lot older, and it’s usually a team that consists of a bunch of college players so it gets you prepared,” said Bronico.

“Everyone is a lot more athletic in that game, and definitely out here.”

With all the preparation for the college game, nothing really quite compares when it comes to academics, though.

“College classes? Probably one of the worst things I’ve experienced,” he said with a laugh.

“Coming to college, everything’s a lot harder. There’s a lot more work due.”

Ending high school with a weighted grade point average way above 4.0, Bronico’s attitude is the reason he can adjust and thrive in college courses and in the college game.

Coach Kevin Langan, head coach of the 49ers, said, “he has a real great work ethic. He wants to be involved.”

As Bronico gets used to the classroom, he still has a lot to learn on

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the pitch as well.

But, that is where the upperclassmen make a big difference.

“They’ll give me some advice if I’m not doing anything because they’ve been here a lot longer,” said Bronico.

“If I’m not doing something right they’ll be like, 'hey try this next time.' They are a great group of guys to work with.”

Time will tell what the future holds for Bronico and the 49ers men’s soccer team.

As tricky as the freshman experience ends up though, number 11 will always have his team behind his back.

“This is a really great group of guys,” said Coach Langan.

“All the new guys who come in, we welcome them with open arms and we explain pretty quickly what’s expected.”

“I want to go professional,” Bronico said chuckling.

“I don’t want to be sitting behind a desk working from nine to five.”

Catch the 49ers and Brandt Bronico in their next home match against the Campbell Camels on Saturday, Sept. 21.

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COACH ROBERT LANE Coach Robert Lane, assistant coach of the Charlotte 49ers women’s soccer team, knew from the beginning that coaching was where he belonged Coach Robert Lane is entering his third year as assistant coach of the Charlotte 49ers women’s soccer team. Photo by Ryan Sarles

SCOTT GORDON INTERN

Robert Lane is entering his third year as an assistant coach for the Charlotte 49ers women’s soccer team.

Lane, a former head coach at the Division II level, has been a great addition to the coaching staff since he joined the team in 2011.

Lane developed a love for soccer at a young age, and the passion stayed with him until he decided to pursue a career in coaching after college.

Lane attended East Carolina University and graduated in 2005 with a degree in Political Science.

He went on to obtain a master’s in Business Administration from Regis in 2010.

Lane also has an Advanced National Diploma from the National Soccer Coaches Association of America.

Despite his advanced degree, coaching was always something he

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could see himself doing.

“Right after I got out of college and started coaching a local club team, and from there I knew that’s what I wanted to do. My first gig was as a volunteer coach at Barton College,” said Lane.

“I worked at a steel mill from about 5:45 'till 12:30 every day. I would go out to campus after that to do training and whatnot, but I loved it. I absolutely loved it. I fell in love with the sport all over again in a different light from seeing it in a different angle.”

Since the time at Barton, Lane has bounced around as a head coach at Coker in South Carolina, Belmont Abbey in North Carolina and as an assistant at Georgia Southern before landing the position under Head Coach John Cullen in Charlotte.

“I have the utmost respect for John Cullen having coached

against him in the Division II world years before when I was at Coker, so it was a natural fit,” said Lane about joining Cullen’s staff.

“The university speaks for itself.

Charlotte is a fantastic place. It was just a no-brainer to come work for John Cullen and work at this university.”

“Our expectations are to create higher standards for our program,” said Lane.

“We’ve got a good core group of kids as sophomores and juniors now who have been doing this for a couple years. I think the expectation for us is to do extremely well in Conference USA.” The 49ers are off to a good start at 4-2 this season and will continue to improve as they mature on the field.

“We are still a work in progress.

I think we’re still tinkering with

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things but at least we’re tinkering while we’re still winning games,” Lane said about the team’s impressive start.

Coach Lane will be an integral part of Cullen’s staff and the success of the 49ers.

He brings great passion to the team and his experience both as a player and coach make him a great asset on the field and in the locker room.

In his first two seasons as assistant coach of the Charlotte 49ers women’s soccer team, Coach Lane has coached 10 allconference picks for the Atlantic 10 Conference.

Coach Lane’s passion and appreciation for the sport will prove to be helpful as the women’s soccer team makes their debut in the competitive Conference USA.

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FROM THE BOX An opinionated viewpoint from Sports Editor Libby Weihsmann

On Saturday, Sept. 14, the Charlotte 49ers hosted the Eagles from North Carolina Central University. The game was a complete standing-room-only sellout with 16,630 fans inside Jerry Richardson Stadium.

By halftime, the mass exodus of fans began.

At the start of the fourth quarter, it appeared that not even 7,000 fans were left in the stadium.

This is not about bashing the fans that gave up on their beloved 49ers and left the game. This is not about school spirit, or lack thereof.

This is college football. It’s not shocking that when teams are playing in a blowout or getting their pride served to them on a golden platter, fans will leave.

Fans leave when it’s raining and they leave when it’s hot. Fans leave when they’re winning and they leave when they’re not.

Whether I agree with a fan’s reason for leaving doesn’t matter. We’ve seen it happen year after year, team after team. If the fans know the outcome, they see no reason to stay.

That’s been happening in college football for years. Charlotte is no exception.

This is about the fans that I could see from inside the pressbox that stayed to watch the game - all 60 minutes. Those fans should be recognized for their ultimate dedication to the Charlotte 49ers football team.

The fans that stay to see their team fight until the end - whether winning or losing are the ones that will help back tradition and establish a real fan base.

As a current student and future alumnus of this university, I say thank you.

Photo by Chris Crews

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Tuesday, Sept. 17 Volleyball (6-4) went on a three-game sweep over the weekend at the Country Inns and Suites Invitational.

They went 9-0 in sets not dropping a single one.

Volleyball Away - UNC Greensboro Friday, Sept. 20

No. 18 Luke Waechter recorded his first career goal for the 49ers men’s soccer team (2-1-1) against Memphis.

Waechter’s goal was the first time the 49ers had scored in the opening half of a game this season.

Despite the loss, the 49ers football team blocked their first-ever extra point attempt against NC Central. The 49ers are now 2-1.

Volleyball’s Savannah Gaster posted a career-high 10 kills against Maryland-Eastern Shore. This was the first time Gaster had posted double-digit kills.

Women’s Tennis Home - Charlotte Invitational TBA Softball Home vs. Spartanburg Methodist JC 5 p.m.

Women’s Soccer Home vs. College of Charleston 7 p.m.

Volleyball Home - 49er Invite vs. South Carolina State 7 p.m.

49ers women’s soccer team (4-2) scored two goals in the second half against James Madison. This is the second time the 49ers have scored two goals in the second half of a game.

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SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

Saturday, Sept. 21 Football Away - James Madison 6 p.m.

Men’s Soccer Home vs. Campbell 7 p.m.

Volleyball Home - 49er Invite vs.

Tennessee State 12:30 p.m.

Home - 49er Invite vs. Elon 7 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 22 Men’s Golf Away - Rees Jones Collegiate in Daufuskie Island, S.C. Softball Home vs. Pfeiffer 1 p.m.

Women’s Soccer Away - Davidson

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COACH MULLEN

For Jeff Mullen, offensive coordinator of the Charlotte 49ers football team, speed and consistency are key in order for the inaugural team to be successful

MATT CHAPMAN

ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

Charlotte 49ers Offensive Coordinator Jeff Mullen brings plenty of experience to an extremely young start-up program attempting to navigate their way through their inaugural season.

Mullen brings with him a lightning fast spread offense which just recently ran a total of 106 plays in a game against the NCCU Eagles.

For those of you unfamiliar with the minor details of a college football game, that's a lot of plays.

Mullen's offensive system has been more than impressive thus far this season as the 49ers have averaged 37.3 points per game over the span of their first three contests.

Charlotte has proven to be one of the most explosive teams in the nation so far as they average just under 500 total yards per game, coming in at an astounding clip of 497 per contest.

Mullen has had plenty of experience coaching at some big name schools during his 20-year career in the business.

He began his coaching career at Hawaii back in 1991 fresh out of college and since then has served as the quarterbacks coach at both Wake Forest and West Virginia.

One might wonder why Mullen would choose an up-start FCS program like the Charlotte 49ers as his next destination, but he shared with me the one key factor in his decision-making process.

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"Brad Lambert. It was an extremely easy decision," said Mullen.

"When I look back at my career, the most fulfilling and enjoyable moments have come with guys I know. Brad Lambert is a guy that I wanted to work for and become part of his program."

Mullen has plenty of experience working alongside Lambert as both men worked on the Wake Forest coaching staff from 2001-7.

Mullen has implemented a nohuddle system that he likes to run at break neck speed.

It's an offense that looks very similar to the one being ran by Larry Fedora down the road in Chapel Hill.

You would think a team that is mostly comprised of players in their first and second years would struggle to pick up such a complex offense but Mullen really likes the youth of his squad.

"Because they're all freshmen they don't know any better, so they came in with no bad habits and we've really preached to them the importance of working hard," said Mullen.

"They've been able to adapt to a fast-paced system because they don't know anything different, so it's been pretty easy."

The aspect that most coaches usually worry about with an inexperienced team is a lack of leadership, but Coach Mullen has been impressed with the poise

Coach Jeff Mullen before the Campbell game. Photo by Chris Crews

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

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and work ethic shown by a few different players who have stepped up on the offensive side of the ball.

"Clearly the leadership role usually falls on the quarterback and I think Matt Johnson is built for that. He's a natural leader and that's what we were looking for in recruiting," said Mullen.

"But then we do have a couple old guys in Daniel Blitch up front who is a Wake Forest transfer, and also Mikel Hunter, the wide receiver who came over from Air Force. They've clearly been our leaders because they're older guys."

Given Mullen's history as a quarterback coach, his praise of Johnson is nothing to scoff at.

Mullen has had the pleasure of coaching former household names in college football such as Pat White at West Virginia and also Riley Skinner at Wake Forest, so I asked for his opinion on how Johnson stacks up in comparison to those two early on in his career.

"He's completely different from a skill set stand point. He's got a little of Pat and a little of Riley," said Mullen.

"Where they compare is above the neck. The great quarterbacks that I've had have been guys that get the game above the neck. He's given us the ability to do a lot of things schematically because he's a really smart kid."

When I look back at my career, the most fulfilling moments have come with guys I know.

-Jeff Mullen

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Coach Mullen talks with the quarterbacks before the Campbell game . Photo by Chris Crews

Johnson has thrived through three games under the watch of Coach Mullen.

Johnson has compiled 873 yards passing thus far to go along with eight touchdown passes.

His 69.4 percent completion percentage is quite impressive for a quarterback playing his first season in such a complex system.

While Mullen loves the progression that his guys have made on the field over the past couple years, he knows that they can't become complacent and that they need to continue to work throughout the rest of the season.

"I think too often in today's world we always judge a football team by last week's performance," said Mullen.

"The thing for a good team is to be consistently good. Regardless of opponent, regardless of home or away, regardless of injury, regardless of depth, if we can continue to work on getting better at consistency I think we have a chance."

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

NINERTIMES

NO

FOR SKATEBOARDERS Skateboarders are dangerously weaving in and around campus pedestrians, in some cases colliding with students who are simply attempting to get to their next class

EVAN GRAY INTERN

If you’ve ever walked around campus, you’ve probably noticed that the students of UNC Charlotte love their longboards and skateboards.

However, many pedestrains aren’t fond of the idea of sharing their walkways with high-speed skaters.

Every day I hear a new story of a close call between someone on foot and a hypersonic longboarder barreling down the sidewalk.

If done responsibly, skating and longboarding can be very safe, convenient and even fun for everyone.

But there is a time and a place for everything.

During class hours on Monday through Friday, more students are walking around the uptown campus than any other time of the week.

Consequently, this is also the time when there are the most skaters and longboarders out and about.

Let’s face it. If you could cut the time that it takes to get to your class by riding swiftly on your longboard, wouldn’t you?

Nonetheless, with such a

EDITORIAL POLICY Niner Times is written and produced by students at UNC Charlotte. All unsigned editorials are the expressed opinion of the editorial board and do not represent the views of the University. Views expressed in signed editorials are solely those of the author. Niner Times is published on Tuesdays during the regular academic year except during holidays and exam periods.

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high density of students and professors walking around, skating from class to class is risky. These skater-pedestrians are often going very fast, and are known to be extremely unpredictable.

Numerous times I’ve been inches away from being decked by a skater or longboarder who was either behind me or out of my field of vision.

Natalie Elliott, a freshman Psychology major, was nearly hit recently by a high-speed longboarder at the bottom of the bridge behind the Student Union.

“I heard a loud noise behind me and I could see this girl on a longboard. She was flying down the bridge, swerving side to side. I dodged her at the very last second, and could feel her go behind me and whip my hair back.”

The bridge between Lynch Hall and the Student Union is a popular spot among skaters and longboarders, despite the signs on both ends which forbid the use of boards, bikes and rollerblades.

On the other side of the spectrum, one could see how it’s not all that dangerous.

Freshman longboarder and Software and Information Systems ma-

GIVE US SOME FEEDBACK Niner Times welcomes letters. Feedback should be under 200 words, legibly written or typed and should include the author’s signature, year in school, major and telephone number. Faculty and staff should include title and department. Unsigned, anonymous letters will not be printed. All letters are subject to editing for space and style.

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

jor Ben Rossow believes that being cautious and considerate to walking pedestrians is an important part of longboarding etiquette.

“Longboarding is fun as hell.

Though some of the people doing it are just inconsiderate. Most of us will wait for the bridge to clear or yell out a warning like ‘coming up on your left!’ It’s safe when you are aware of your surroundings.”

Nearly every railing and potentially grind-able platform in UNC Charlotte is lined with decorative metal leaves. However, they aren’t there just for show.

The leaves were installed to prevent skateboarders from grinding and doing tricks off of them.

A substantial amount of injuries must have occurred for the campus administration to include the leaves in their budget.

If only there was a college course for skating nearby. Safe boarding etiquette would hopefully then be incorporated into the habits of our boarding friends.

Next time you hop on the board, just be sure to keep your head up and be aware of your surroundings.

And for goodness sake, boarders, please slow down.

SUBMIT LETTERS TO:

NINER TIMES Student Union, Charlotte, N.C. 28223 OR E-MAIL:

editor@nineronline.com

NINERTIMES

ARIEL CLAYBORN

Source: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau & White House Press Release on Aug. 22, 2013

INTERN

$

The federal government provides over $150 billion each year in student financial aid, while states collectively invest over $70 billion in public colleges and universities.

Every past generation has its gripes about the newer generation.

Whether you agree or disagree with them, the bottom line is we’re all just young people trying to figure out who we are, while we fill out college applications, enroll in our college of choice and hastily decide the fate of our futures within four years’ time.

We have inherited quite an enormous burden the generations before us have kindly left behind on our generation’s doorstep, all wrapped up and tied with a bow.

Honestly, when you’re just trying to live your life and enjoy youth, (as our elders encourage us to do) you would try to escape reality through late-night Snapchats and other distracting activities too instead of thinking about college debt and its impending doom on your future.

College tuition during our parent’s generation cost perhaps two years’ worth of what we pay for textbook expenses compared to the tuition amount that we pay now for an average, public four-year university education.

Millennials, the surname of our generation, are put in very frustrating circumstances. We invest hundreds of thousands of dollars and time into studying a profession that, although may get us a higher paycheck than a waiter/

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For the 2013-14 academic year, interest rates for undergraduates for Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans is fixed at 3.83 percent.

waitress job, may or may not even be guaranteed after graduating college due to our wavering economy.

Many college students juggle both work and studying. It’s not atypical to meet a classmate working two or three jobs to pay off their tuition.

Those of us who have chosen to pursue higher education stepped right into that steaming pile of debt without even noticing.

The average student today will graduate with more than $26,000 in debt, according to White House officials and President Obama, who spoke at University of Buffalo last month.

The Fact Sheet on Obama’s Plan to Make College More Affordable also mentioned, “the average tuition at a public four-year college has increased by more than 250 percent over the past three decades.”

Despite the rapid increase, it is pretty clear that most people think attending college is a good investment, at least enough to risk being in debt for the majority of their lives.

But here’s a little lesson in basic economics: when a product is in high demand but in short supply, the value of the product increases.

A few generations ago, attending college was optional. With the

%!

exception of highly technical jobs, a college education was not mandatory to make a comfortable living.

At present, attending college after high school has become a social norm, if not expected.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, “enrollment in degree-granting institutions increased by 11 percent between 1990 and 2000. Between 2000 and 2010, enrollment increased 37 percent, from 15.3 million to 21.0 million.”

So now that college enrollment is in a higher demand, what happens when having a college degree becomes a norm? Students put that investment in their education to work. And if you think college is just about showing up to class and getting a ‘C’ to get that degree, you are doing it all wrong.

You don’t have to be an Einstein, but you do have to network like there’s no tomorrow. Say what you want about college, but networking is the biggest tool college can possibly give you.

Students should not hesitate to send emails, set up appointments or lunch dates, attend interest meetings, and participate in student organizations and campus events.

Also, for goodness sake, talk to your professors and advisors. They are directly engaged in the profes-

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau estimates that outstanding debt is approaching $1.2 trillion as of May 2013.

sion you are studying.

Opportunities are waiting behind unasked questions. You will need all of the help you can get to stand out from your competition and make enough bank in the future to pay off your debts.

“I already have a job promised to me when I graduate,” says one seemingly lucky classmate you know.

Anything can happen. Unfortunately, bad things happen just as often as good things.

The person who promised you a position may not be in the position anymore to make the decision once you are ready to take it.

The business might go belly up and be bought out by another company, or re-locate. Someone more qualified may get the position or your career interests may even change.

Think about how often your Facebook and Twitter account newsfeeds update with new information, or the stock market data fluctuates. Circumstances will change just as quickly in the professional world.

Every second counts, and anyone pursuing a degree now has to strive to stay relevant.

UNC Charlotte has over 26,000 students. How will you stake your claim?

NINERTIMES

A sit-down with Nev Schulman of ‘Catfish’ The host of the hit TV show “Catfish” is bringing advice on online relationships to UNC Charlotte SARAH CAIN INTERN

Nev Schulman is known as a game changer in the world of online dating. After discovering that his Facebook girlfriend wasn’t who she said she was, Nev created a documentary to reveal the process of catching a “Catfish.”

Now, Nev is bringing his story to the students of UNC Charlotte. The Campus Activities Board is hosting an event in which Nev will discuss his experiences in online dating, his thoughts about the future of online romance and the success of “Catfish.”

The practice of “Catfishing” is when a person pretends to be someone they are not online through social media or other means. This could be used to deceive a person into having a romantic relationship with a fake persona. Most of the time, a person will find photos from other sources like Google images or modeling websites to trick someone and remain anonymous.

Sometimes, people are “Catfished” for years. Some subjects featured on the show are even engaged to someone they have never met, because they are so thoroughly convinced that the person they are in an online relationship with is genuine.

Now, Nev and his friend, Max Joseph, are dedicated to helping others find out who they are involved with.

In most interactions, the person who is doing the catfishing doesn’t match up to their images, but still have the same personality.

Despite the deception, the show follows real people and real feelings, which audiences can relate to. After the huge success of the first season, viewers wanted to see more surprising stories. MTV is currently airing

season two episodes of “Catfish” on Tuesday nights.

Although all of this seems unlikely, college is an environment that lends itself to “Catfishing.”

Those tricked may seem clueless to outsiders, but this type of interaction could happen to any student. Because UNC Charlotte is such a big university, a friend request may pop up on Facebook that looks legitimate, even with mutual friends.

With classes, studying and extracurricular activities, students are busier than ever and may not have the time to meet. Resorting to flirting through social networking sites may be the only choice.

The “Catfish” event is open and free to everyone. It will be held in McKnight Hall at the Cone University Center at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 24.

Following the presentation will be a meet and greet with Nev and refreshments.

KNOW THE FACTS

80 PERCENT

18 30 to

OF ONLINE DATING SITE USERS HAVE LIED ABOUT THEIR HEIGHT, WEIGHT OR AGE. THE AGE DEMOGRAPHIC MOST LIKELY TO START ONLINE RELATIONSHIPS

40 MILLION PEOPLE IN THE U.S. HAVE TRIED ONLINE DATING

Statistics are courtesy of Reuters, UW and Cornell study and Match.com

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Nev Schulman is the executive producer and host of “Catfish.” Photo courtesy of MTV

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

NINERTIMES

Enix are Squ

MOBILE DEVICES CAN OFFER A MORE ACCESSIBLE OPTION FOR GAMING THAN TRADITIONAL CONSOLES. BUT WITH THE HIDDEN COSTS, IS IT WORTH IT?

Phot o cou rtesy of Kin g

of tesy our to c Pho

THE SLIPPERY SLOPE OF MOBILE GAMING JOSEPH CASPER STAFF WRITER

Many of us can remember a time when you could only play video games on your TV. You had a home console, which was usually your main gaming device, and perhaps a Game Boy to keep you amused on long car rides or in the hallways between classes.

Now though, times are changing.

Nearly everybody is connected, and the devices we use for direct communication double as gaming platforms that are in our pockets at almost all times.

The mobile gaming market provides short, accessible experiences for the demographic of people unwilling to invest extra money into a home console.

According to a study by IndustryWeek, 2012 saw smartphone sales at 712 million.

That’s a 44 percent increase from 2011, and representing around 45.5 percent of the overall mobile phone market.

Connectivity is the key to mobile gaming. Being able to jump into a game with other people at any time in any place makes any game more appealing.

Add addictive and competitive gameplay into that formula and you’ve got a winning combination Most games are reasonably priced, averaging around $2.99.

The premium adless version of “Words With Friends” runs at $4.99, a nearly painless entry point into fun crossword battling with buddies, but ideally, you want a game that’s a reasonably priced without deceptive micro-transactions.

You can get a decent experience

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from sticking with the free version of most games, but paying a premium to get the full experience is a predatory tactic that’s popping up more and more often in the mobile games market.

There are many fun freebies out there, but you need to be aware of money pits designed to give you a taste and then needlessly suck as much cash from you as possible.

This is a disturbing trend that is becoming all too common, and one that traditional gamers have absolutely no patience for. The worst offenders of this are “Candy Crush” and “Final Fantasy: All the Bravest.”

The former relies on smooth, addicting puzzle gameplay to suck you in, and the latter feeds off of your nostalgia to get you to open your wallet many times.

Both test your patience: when you lose you either have to wait a certain period of time for the game to become playable again, or pay real world money to continue and resume playing immediately.

“All the Bravest “is especially deceptive in its “free” price point.

In order to experience all of the game’s content you’ll end up paying over $50, and that doesn’t include buying extra items to keep your party alive so you can keep playing.

Even “Plants vs. Zombies 2,” a newcomer IP that even hardcore gamers respect, is designed like a shark: remain free to play for those with patience and the gumption to finish it, or shakedown casuals who don’t mind or don’t know any better than to pay out of their

pocket for a little help.

Of course, you could just exhibit patience and wait until the game becomes playable again. But that’s a trait that’s running thin in this culture of instant gratification.

While there are compelling reasons to play games on your phone or tablet, one thing is certain: they are, for the foreseeable future, not going to give you the same experience you get from gaming on a home console or a PC. The allure of accessibility and

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

connectivity ensures that mobile games will continue to dominate.

However, with a plethora of third party gaming controllers announced for iOS devices last week (something that Steve Jobs was adamant against implementing on the iPhone) the gap between console and mobile gaming may narrow.

The mobile gaming market is a new, uncharted expanse— one with plenty of sharks, but also a little bit of treasure.

NINERTIMES

EVENT

CALENDAR LIVE MUSIC THE REVIVALISTS WEDNESDAY SEPT. 18 • 8 P.M.

RED JUMPSUIT APPARATUS THURSDAY, SEPT. 19 • 7 P.M.

THE CHOP SHOP, $15

AMOS’ SOUTHEND, $17

ALT J FRIDAY, SEPT. 20• 8 P.M.

YELLOWCARD SATURDAY, SEPT. 21 • 8 P.M.

THE FILLMORE, $25

THE FILLMORE, $31

CROSSWORD PUZZLE 65 66 67 68

NEW RELEASES IN THEATRES

DVD/BLU-RAY

PRISONERS ENOUGH SAID BATTLE OF THE YEAR RUSH

WORLD WAR Z THE BLING RING DISCONNECT SCENIC ROUTE

PERFORMANCES FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE COMEDY SERIES PRESENTS:

THEO VON FRIDAY, SEPT. 20• 7 P.M. AFTER HOURS, FREE

GAME RELEASES GRAND THEFT AUTO V PS3, XBOX 360

MECHWARRIOR ONLINE PC

RATED M FOR MATURE

NOT RATED BY ESRB

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ACROSS 1 Manages (for oneself) 6 Snuck 11 __ Moines, Iowa 14 Native Alaskan 15 Cowboy singer Gene 16 “That’s nasty!”

17 Criticize gas and electric companies?

19 The Beatles’ “__ Loves You” 20 Sunrise direction 21 One of a D.C. 100 22 Russian capital 24 Roy G __: rainbow mnemonic 26 Piebald horse 27 Criticize a modeling shoot array?

30 It replaced the French franc 33 Pass out

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

35 Mudville number 36 Complete, as a scene 37 Tropicana and Minute Maid, briefly 38 Cheesy sandwiches 39 Grounded jet 40 Sworn statement 42 Isaac’s eldest 43 Wranglers with wheels 45 Folk music’s Kingston __ 46 Criticize stage shows?

48 Former Bears head coach Smith 50 Be in debt 51 Sea near Stockholm 53 Prefix with pass 55 Become enraged 59 World Cup cheer 60 Criticize awards?

63 Gen-__: boomer’s kid, probably 64 Invalidate

On one’s toes Fist pumper’s word Trotsky and Uris Pack animals

DOWN 1 Lose color in the wash 2 “On the Waterfront” director Kazan 3 Loch with a monster 4 Brit’s trash can 5 Sault __ Marie 6 Batman’s hideout 7 Wreck completely 8 And so on: Abbr.

9 Vacate the __: eviction notice phrase 10 Big name in chicken 11 Criticize college subjects?

12 Bounce in a 6-Down 13 Depict unfairly 18 Invitation letters 23 Bouillabaisse, e.g.

25 Practitioner: Suff.

26 Kept in, as hostility 27 Criticize farmers?

28 Bodysuit for a tiny tot 29 “__ Marner”: Eliot work 31 Speak with a grating voice 32 Chooses 33 12 inches 34 Open a bit 38 Doctor’s profession 41 Owl’s cry 43 A boxer may have a glass one 44 They’re attractive to look at 47 “Footloose” co-star Singer 49 “Myra Breckinridge” author Gore 51 Like the Honda Element 52 Away from the wind 53 Really surprise 54 Web addresses, briefly 56 Beehive State natives 57 Little more than 58 Repair co. proposals 61 __-cone 62 Sheep’s call

NINERTIMES

You don’t know until you go RYAN HESS

GUEST COLUMNIST

I have a hunch about why they say you “find yourself” when you travel.

I’ve only been studying abroad in Milan for two weeks now, but it feels like two months.

Everything accelerates so rapidly and the days stitch together so quickly that I don’t have a clue what’s going on most of the time. Maybe you felt a similar rush if you’ve ever moved. Sometimes it’s a lot like freshman year.

In my Vespa-dodging days of discovery, I notice myself trying on new accessories of my personality. Milan is not just about how you look, but whether or not you’re comfortable.

I’m deliberating trying to slow down time by catching my breath or capturing the details of the day in a notebook. Sometimes I freeze and forget how to perform basic questions, like asking for directions. But that’s okay. I find myself laughing at how many mistakes I make.

Study abroad has already turned self-criticism into self-amusement, which has been the best transformational part of this journey thus far.

Adjustment through uncertainty gives us the chance to figure out something on our own: ourselves.

You think you know, and then your illuminating support system is no longer around. I noticed loneliness and perfectionism rearing their ugly heads at the start of my second week here, but I’ve laughed them away now.

As I read in one Italian bookstore: “Life is too important to be taken seriously.”

There are some moments of paralysis when someone makes a demand in Italian and I have no idea how to process it. Yet I’m amazed with how patient Italians are. They’ll gladly wait five minutes for me to crank a butchered sentence out. They’ll respond in English if they’re on the clock, like a waiter, but outside of that they genuinely want to help me understand. Using Italian first warms their heart. They adore their language.

Some stereotypes are true and others are far from it. Yes, Milan is all about fashion, yet whoever said the Milanese were stereotypically cold northerners met the wrong bunch. A few Italians are loud, but they’re some of the most tranquil human beings I’ve met.

They’re not late because of laziness — they’re late because they cared enough to stay on the phone with a loved one or soaked up another 15 minutes with a friend at the caffe. They don’t care too much for paperwork because life isn’t about paperwork. Life in Italy is about food, friends and family.

The problems that come with adjustment have translated into incredible opportunities. Studying abroad is a worthwhile stretch concerning everything that matters: how do you treat people, how do you do on your own, how kind are you to yourself with all the mistakes you’ll make, and how do you live? These questions matter, wherever you are in the world.

If you want to figure life out, try.

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NICOLE JONES INTERN

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

STRAWBERRY PASSION SMOOTHIE While Starbucks is the most obvious choice for a tasty drink on campus, do not put Peet’s Coffee and Tea under the table.

Peet’s has two convenient locations on campus: on the first floor of the Fretwell building and in the lower level of Atkin’s library.

With similar drink options to Starbucks for half the cost, Peet’s Café is the place to go for a two o’clock pick-me-up or a quick drink between classes when you don’t have time to make it to the union.

This week’s Drink of the Week is the Strawberry Passion smoothie, a deliciously pink blend of fresh strawberry and banana.

Healthier than some of the other options on the smoothie menu, this drink is filling and gives a boost of needed energy in between classes.

For an even lighter option, ask them to hold the whipped cream.

HAVE AN IDEA FOR DRINK OF THE WEEK? EMAIL LIFESTYLE@NINERONLINE.COM WITH YOUR DRINK, A PHOTO AND A RECIPE OR WHERE TO GET IT

NINERTIMES

FALL FASHION ESSENTIALS Fall is well on its way, and cooler temperatures bring warmer clothes. The Niner Times has compiled the fashion essentials for the new season to keep you both warm and stylish COMPILED BY MICHELLE LIRINGIS, NICOLE JONES AND AMANDA DUKE

BALLET FLATS Ballet flats are a staple in any girl’s closet because of their versatility in color, pattern and wearability.

Purchase solid color flats in a fall hue such as maroon or purple, or go for a more classic look with black or nude. Solid color flats are best paired with bold, patterned pieces such as a chevron striped shirt or polka dotted pants.

The solid shoe will bring the outfit together.

Patterned flats add spice to an otherwise bland outfit. Go for daring animal prints or preppy stripes paired with skinny jeans and a solid shirt to add some personality to your casual look.

For a dressier look, pair your flats with girly skirts or dresses and tights.

A good pair of flats can work for any occasion and are comfortable for trekking across campus to class.

JEAN JACKET Jean jackets are the perfect fall jacket. They are heavy enough to keep you warm on a cool day, but light enough to wear if the sun comes out.

They also provide versatility to your closet as they can be worn in many different ways. Pair it with a flowy dress and boots for a country feel.

Try it with a pair of colored pants and a flowy top for a more sophisticated yet casual look.

The sleeves can be worn either rolled or all the way down depending on the weather.

Jean jackets come in different colors as well as different lengths.

They provide comfort and style while transitioning from summer to fall temperatures.

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SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

NINERTIMES

SKINNY JEANS A good pair of skinny jeans is hard to find but are necessary this fall. These jeans from Forever 21 are arguably the most perfect pair of pants.

They are skinny jeans, but provide stretch and flexibility: there is no jumping to get into them. They slide right over problem areas. The best part?

They were only $7.80 a pair.

They come in a variety of different washes: denim blue, gray, dark denim and black.

These jeans can be dressed up or dressed down depending on the occasion.

Tuck them into boots or wear them with a cute flat for a casual look. For a fancier occasion, try pairing them with a cute wedge or a fun heel.

They look cute with either plain T-shirts or even button-downs or fancier tops. The options are endless with a good pair of jeans.

While the weather is still mildly warm, the jeans cuff nicely to be worn as a cropped pant or a capri.

Pair them with cute, strappy sandals and a fun top for the warmer days ahead.

They’ll transition nicely to match with boots and coats as the weather cools off.

RIDING BOOTS Riding boots are great with so many different outfits, with jeans and a scarf or a cute dress for fall.

Finding a comfortable pair is the hard part.

These Steve Madden Baxter boots were on DSW.com (the Designer Shoe Warehouse).

Originally, they were $230, a price far out of the typical college student’s budget even for the cutest boots, but they were in the sale section of DSW for only $90. Definitely worth a pair of timeless, leather boots that will last for seasons to come.

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SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

NINERTIMES

BOLD ACCENTS Fall fashion is all about warm, bold colors. Pair this deep purple purse, $30 at Target, with any plain outfit for an instant pop of color.

The little pieces are important and can really make the difference in your look.

If you are nervous to try out colored pants or patterned sweaters that are popular this season, your accessories are a less daring yet still stylish way to add some personality.

Accessories require less commitment and are perfect if trying out new things makes you nervous.

Try adding a bold bag, a chunky necklace, a large watch or a knitted scarf in a brighter color with jeans and a T-shirt.

It is an instant style upgrade that will leave you looking cute and feeling confident.

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SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

NINERTIMES

SCARVES AND CARDIGANS

COLORED PANTS

Scarves and cardigans are perfect for the fall weather. They pair well together or can be worn separately with other pieces. Scarves add a little more personality to an outfit. Both items are staples for fall and winter wardrobes.

The cardigan is light so you can wear it on those days when it is chilly in the morning and warmer in the afternoon.

The scarf, though a little on the thicker side, has a mix of colors in it making it easy to match.

Over the summer, a popular trend was anything mint green. Bring the mint into your fall closet by wearing a mint green cardigan.

If you aren’t a big fan of coats, there are a variety of heavier cardigans and sweaters that can keep you warm without being bulky.

The scarf is an infinity scarf, a popular style.

Since it is knitted it is nice and warm and adds a bit of texture to the look.

NINERONLINE.COM

Colored pants have been a recurring trend season after season, and they are back again this fall.

In the spring and summer, pastel colors were popular.

For fall, try using warmer colors like deep purples, hunter greens and maroons.

Pair them with solid colored tops or tops with soft patterns so your outfit isn’t too overwhelming.

The bold colors will vamp up any regular shorts and T-shirt outfit in a fun, fresh way.

Pants are available in a variety of different colors and cuts so you are bound to find a pair that fits your own personal style.

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2013

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