Inside this issue!
Halloween Haunts
There are spooky places to visit both on and off campus. Where are you getting your tricks and treats this Halloween?
p. 6 and 11
Capital Cities comes to Charlotte Capital Cities of ‘Safe and Sound’ fame are coming to Charlotte with Fitz and the Tantrums. Inclusive interview inside.
p. 13
Would you survive?
If your life were a horror movie, do you have what it takes to survive?
p. 15
A PRODUCT OF STUDENT NINER MEDIA • THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTE • VOL. 26, ISSUE 10
NINERONLINE.COM
OCT. 29 - NOV. 4, 2013
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NINERTIMES
OCT. 29 - NOV. 4, 2013
Volume 26, Number 10 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
AE@NINERONLINE.COM
LIFESTYLE@NINERONLINE.COM
OPINION EDITOR
COPY EDITOR
JORDAN SNYDER
ASHLEY SPEECE
OPINION@NINERONLINE.COM
COPY@NINERONLINE.COM
PHOTO COORDINATOR
CHRIS CREWS
PHOTO@NINERONLINE.COM
ASSISTANT EDITORS Sara Carson, Matt Chapman, Ariel Clayborn, Amanda Duke, Leanna Pough
ADDITIONAL STAFF Dallas Britt, Sean Grier, Chester Griffin
NEWSROOM: 704.687.7150
MEDIA MARKETING MARKETING DIRECTOR
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
MKTDIRECTOR@UNCC.EDU
PRODUCTION@UNCC.EDU
CIRCULATION MANAGER
PRODUCTION ASSISTANT
EMMANUEL LOREDO
NIKI PRESTEL
PATRICK WISNIEWSKI
GISELLE HERNANDEZ
CIRCULATION STAFF Josh Laton, Sara Nauman & Timothy Starnes
MARKETING STAFF Sandy Granadino, Sara Karimipour, Lexy Price, Nathan Propst, Jeremiah Powell & Dylan Robison
SALES OFFICE: 704.687.7144
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PARODY SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS CAMPUS BURGLARY UPDATE SPOOKY PLACES ON CAMPUS CAROLINA CASIN-SILVA PROFILE CONFERENCE USA STANDINGS OP-ED: POLITICS AND YOUTH OP-ED: LOOKING TO THE FUTURE LOCAL CHARLOTTE HAUNTS ‘BRING YOUR OWN BOOK’ BOOK CLUB REVIEW CAPITAL CITIES PREVIEW ‘GOOD PEOPLE’ REVIEW TIPS TO SURVIVING A HORROR MOVIE
Inside this issue Follow us on Twitter @UNCCmedia
A 24-page preview for the 2013-14 men’s and women’s Charlotte 49ers basketball season
LOCATED IN THE LOWER LEVEL OF THE STUDENT UNION NINER TIMES • RADIO FREE CHARLOTTE SANSKRIT • MEDIA MARKETING • NINERONLINE THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTE NINER MEDIA ADVISER: WAYNE MAIKRANZ BUSINESS MANAGER: LAURIE CUDDY
MARKETING ADVISER: KELLY MERGES
GRAPHICS & PRODUCTION: PETE HURDLE
OFFICE MANAGER: MARK HAIRE
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COVER PHOTO BY CHRIS CREWS • INSIDE PHOTO NT FILE PHOTO
OCT. 29 - NOV. 4, 2013
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Inside the Charlotte social media craze Creators of some parody UNC Charlotte social media accounts reveal what their jobs entail SARA CARSON
ASST. NEWS EDITOR UNC Charlotte social media accounts have grown exponentially within the past few years. Accounts such as UNCC Confessions, UNCC Problems, UNCC Makeout and UNCC Geese have captured the time and attention of students universitywide. What started out as an act of boredom for the account creators quickly became a full-time occupation as it evolved into a social feeding frenzy. “It’s kind of gotten more popular than I ever thought it would,” says Noah Meador, account manager for UNCC Problems. Each account is run differently. Some, like UNCC Geese, post their own thoughts, while others like UNCC Confessions and UNCC Makeout post thoughts and pictures submitted by the student body. Alternatively, UNCC Problems collaboratively posts its own ideas and submissions from students. Keeping these accounts available to the masses is not as easy as it may appear. In addition to their own personal accounts, the admins have to keep up with these anonymous accounts. In some cases, this may mean that the admin forfeits some of their free time. The head of UNCC Confessions has a team of admins who help him, however would like to note they are not a student organization. This means that they do not have officers. UNCC Confessions is the most widely followed of the different Niner social networks. Started in February of 2013, the account currently has nearly 5,000
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submissions total and receives anywhere from 200-500 submissions each day. The main goal as listed on the UNCC Confessions page states, “We help confessors by offering them a network of support through the student body as well as a general form of entertainment for the masses.” UNCC Confessions is run alongside Survey Monkey. Students follow the link to this site provided on the UNCC Confessions page and leave their submissions there. The admins then filter through the posts and relay the appropriate, nonhateful submissions through to the UNCC Confessions page. The reason behind using Survey Monkey is so the students posting submissions remain anonymous not only to followers of the account, but to the admins as well. The admins of UNCC Confessions have assigned times which they are responsible for managing the account. One of the three admins, all who wish to remain anonymous, said, “Pretty much all of the members are on there whenever they have free time. When I sit in the library, I normally have a second computer up just for [UNCC] Confessions.” One admin shared that running the account has started to cut into his time set aside for school work. To aid this problem, they hope to create a web page that submits confessions automatically. The team created the event to carry out their main purpose and for students to have a place to hang out
and meet new people. Aside from being a form of entertainment and an outlet for the students, the account has also helped those in need. The admins created the post #1600 for a student whose house was destroyed in a fire. In response to this, many students reached out and helped their fellow student in her time of crisis. Post #2600 had quite a compelling reaction on Facebook. It discussed the struggles a student had faced before attending UNC Charlotte, and the difference this university had made for them. “The happiest day of my life came when I moved in on campus. I did not see a bed for so long, I forgot how to make one. I only had 20 dollars to live off of until I found a job. I have never been so happy being here...” The reaction was overwhelmingly supportive. One admin commented on the tweet, “It’s kind of just a promotion on our page to all of the people who feel like they are alone to just find help on our page. They can comment a question or something they have and they don’t have to feel embarrassed because it’s anonymous.” Most other accounts like UNCC Problems are run solely by one admin. This creates a problem for the account after the admins graduate. “I’m gonna keep the legacy going as long as I can, but I’ll definitely need somebody to keep it more updated once I’m off campus,” said Noah Meador, creator of UNCC
OCT. 29 - NOV. 4, 2013
Problems. Meador is a senior and is looking for someone who will put in the same amount of time and energy as he does, and who wants it badly. The UNCC Problems account is run quite differently and has a far different purpose than that of UNCC Confessions. The account was created as a form of entertainment and a way to provide a form of unity among students. Any time a problem occurs on campus, UNCC Problems will tweet it with “#unccproblems” at the end of each post. Students often tweet personal on-campus problems to the account, in which case Meador retweets them. Started back in 2010, UNCC Problems receives about 40-50 contributions each day. Not all of these submissions have been friendly. In response to a tweet by Meador regarding his loss in the raffle for a ticket to the first inaugural football game, many students tweeted negative things at him. Regarding this, Meador commented, “People started calling me names, saying I don’t have school spirit and if people tell me I don’t have school pride then they’re mistaken!” Meador added, “I don’t mind the people getting mad, it just means my account is getting more popular.” To visit any of the mentioned accounts, visit https://www.facebook. com/ or https://twitter.com/ and enter the account name.
NINERTIMES
Campus police continue investigation regarding Monday morning burglary EDEN CREAMER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Students awoke Monday morning to an email from the university’s emergency alert system, detailing a supposed armed burglary around 1:30 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 28. The two victims were walking together on Van Landingham Road in front of East Deck 3. They say that the suspects, who were believed to have had handguns at the scene, demanded their cell phones and laptops before leaving on foot away from campus and onto John Kirk Road. Detective Joshua Huffman of UNC Charlotte’s Police and Public Safety Department is one of the officers investigating the incident. “Initially the officers responded [to the scene] and the victims
thought that perhaps the individuals had a weapon, but when we brought them back to the police department after they had a chance to catch their breath, they weren’t sure,” said Huffman. Campus police cannot confirm whether the suspects had handguns at the time of the incident or not. Victims describe the suspects as two black males, both aged in their early twenties. Victims say both suspects are around 6-feet tall, one taller than the other. Both were wearing hoodies and pants. A request has been put out to the community and to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, letting the public know that campus police are seeking the suspects.
“We are actively investigating this right now. We do have some leads that we’re following up on,” said Huffman. This is the first police advisory for armed robbery that UNC Charlotte students have received this academic year. Anyone with information regarding the suspects or the incident is encouraged to contact campus police at 704-687-2200 or the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department at 911.
For continued updates on the incident, visit NinerOnline.com
Kingston University collaborates to make student theatrical production SARA CARSON
ASST. NEWS EDITOR The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences will be hosting Theatre Director James Reynolds, Sound/ Lighting Director Andrew Nasrat and John Jonchu, a choreographer. The faculty will be traveling from Kingston University in London to collaborate with Associate Spanish Professor Maryrica Lottman. They will be creating a student theatrical production of “The Sultan’s Queen” and “Pericles, Prince of Tyre.” Each play is 45 minutes long. The visiting Kingston Professors will attend workshops held in the Cone Center and McKnight Hall. There will be three workshops focusing on “All at Sea,” “The Hero’s
NINERONLINE.COM
Journey” and “Sacred Space.” The creation period “All at Sea” will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 29. “The Hero’s Journey” will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 30 from 3 to 5:30 p.m. The last workshop “Sacred Space” will be on Thursday, Oct. 31 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Any persons interested in helping with the development of the project are welcome to attend the workshops. The workshops will be an introduction to a study abroad program in England. To find out more information about the shows or workshops, email Lottman at mlottman@uncc.edu. OCT. 29 - NOV. 4, 2013
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50th anniversary of Bonnie E. Cone University Center celebration sparks memories and attracts alumni
POLICE BLOTTER OCT. 21-25
SARA CARSON
ASST. NEWS EDITOR A week of celebration will take place next month to honor the 50 year presence of the Bonnie E. Cone University Center on campus. Bonnie E. Cone was the first director of the Charlotte Center, an early name for what is now UNC Charlotte. The Cone Center played an
essential role in the development of UNC Charlotte as it evolved from a night school program, to a two-year city-funded institution, to what is now a four-year state college. Originally called the “College Center,” its name was changed to the Bonnie E. Cone University Center to honor Cone after her retirement.
CALLS FOR SERVICE Some events coming up:
• “Movies @ McKnight” Monday, Nov. 4 • “Chancellor’s CONE-vocation” Tuesday, Nov. 5 • “A-Cone-A-Fair Open House” Wednesday, Nov. 6 • “Dances of the World” Wednesday, Nov. 6 • “Scarletta: Country Trio” Thursday, Nov. 9
8 on-campus spook-spots to avoid this Halloween SARA CARSON, EDEN CREAMER, CLAIRE DODD
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Non-lit pathway between Cameron and Auxiliary services building
Bonnie Cone’s grave, located in the Van Landingham Glen FILE PHOTO
TUESDAY OCT. 29
@UNCCWeather FOLLOW FOR FORECASTS AND WARNINGS
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The dimly lit parking decks around campus, specifically West Deck
73°F
Partly cloudy. Low of 50°
WEDNESDAY OCT. 30
73°F
Partly cloudy. Low of 54°
THURSDAY OCT. 31
72°F
Scattered evening and overnight thunderstorms. Low of 54°
• Cameron Blvd., subject was found in possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia
DWI
OCT. 21
• Darryl McCall Circle, an officer arrested a subject for driving while impaired and under the age of 21
HIT AND RUN OCT. 23
NT EDITORIAL STAFF
The steep hill from Oak Hall leading to the Student Union where the staircase statue stands
OCT. 25
Path from the J. Murrey Atkins Library entrance near the Cone University Center to Belk Tower Outside pathway that goes through the middle of the Colvard building
Both Rowe Courtyards, the one in front by Belk Tower and the building’s inner courtyard
Old grave site located off Phillips Road, overlooking the baseball field
FRIDAY NOV. 1
74°F
Scattered showers in the morning. Low of 60°
OCT. 29 - NOV. 4, 2013
SATURDAY NOV. 2
68°F
Partly cloudy. Low of 53°
• Union Deck, subject reported that she witnessed a vehicle striking a vehicle and leaving the scene of the accident
LARCENY OCT. 23
• University City Blvd., subject reported that money was embezzled from an organization on campus
TRESPASSING OCT. 22
• Alumni Way, an unknown subject removed property without permission
VANDALISM OCT. 22
• Cameron Blvd., an unknown subject spray painted a wall
OCT. 24
• Cameron Blvd., subject reported his vehicle had been damaged while unoccupied For more information on Mecklenburg County arrests, visit arrestinquiryweb.co.mecklenburg.nc.us
NINERTIMES
FROM N.Y. TO N.C.
An established running program, mechanical engineering and warmer weather led cross country’s Carolina Casin-Silva to UNC Charlotte
49ers cross country sophomore Carolina Casin-Silva. Photo courtesy of Charlotte Sports Information
DALLAS BRITT INTERN
College is hard. Taking a chance and transferring from New York City to Charlotte is even harder, but Carolina Casin-Silva is doing it and thriving in her new home. Casin-Silva is a first-year sophomore transfer student from the Dominican College of New York as well as a cross-country runner who focuses on distance competitions. When it came to attending UNC Charlotte, she feels like she made the right decision. “Whenever I was searching for school, the two main things they had to have were a good running program and the major I wanted,” said Casin-Silva. “I was looking for warmer weather and a bigger campus and UNC Charlotte had it all. It’s everything that I wanted in a college. The team has been great and I’m trying to get into the major I’ve always wanted to get into. I like the atmosphere of the campus. I have no complaints, I think it was a good decision,” said Casin-Silva. The sophomore runner not only has big goals and a successful year of cross-country, but also a pretty bright future. “I’m trying to get into the mechanical engineering college this fall. I know it’s going to be really tough and a lot of people have said that,
NINERONLINE.COM
but it’s not going to be a problem,” said CasinSilva. “I’m trying to get the freshmen curriculum done. Ideally, I would love to work for a big-time car company, travel around and help them design cars.” Casin-Silva knows how important a team can be, and being part of the team here at UNC Charlotte has shown her what it’s like to be a part of a winning environment. “I enjoy being on a team that not only wants to succeed, but that can actually succeed, because there is a difference in the two,” said Casin-Silva. “I think the difference is a lot of people want to succeed, but nobody wants to put in the effort and it’s frustrating, but the girls on the team here get through it and want to win.” For Casin-Silva, the hardest part isn’t always her running. It’s being away from her family, New York City and especially the food. “I really miss home cooking. I miss the flavor of what I grew up with it. I have fallen in love with sweet tea, hushpuppies and Cookout.” Running was natural for Casin-Silva. Though it was something she always enjoyed, she didn’t know it would become as important to her as it is now. “I don’t know how it came about. I know I did a little running in seventh and eighth grade. Then as high school progressed, I got more serious and I started to learn more about the sport,” said Casin-Silva. “I know my dad, he did a little bit of running when he was my age and my mom did running when she was older, in her 30s, but it just came to me. I’ve never done any other sport.” As the season progresses, she believes much of her success comes from her mother and father. “I think it would be to my parents, mostly my OCT. 29 - NOV. 4, 2013
mom. I know they’ve always supported me. With any tools or with any help, they’ve always been there to help me in anyway they could.” The coaching staff that helps her day in and day out have played a tremendous role in developing Casin-Silva into the runner she’s turned into this season. “They’ve been great. [Cross Country and Assistant Track Coach] Ed Schlichter is pretty awesome. He’s always jumping around and excited about a workout. He’s very accommodating to anything I need,” said CasinSilva. “I like [Assistant Coach] Ashley Vaughn a lot as well. Those are the two people I deal with the most on a daily basis.” As do most athletes, the runner has a few pre-meet routines that she believes help her to perform at the best of her abilities and remove any nervousness that she may have. “Sometimes during the last workout before the race, I’ll think about the race, mostly when the workout gets harder, and I’ll try and visualize the last miles of the race. That’s usually the hardest part.” When talking about her new running family at UNC Charlotte, she has a positive outlook on the team and its goals this year. “We’ve been training since August and I think it’s been great, the way it’s set up. I know we’ve been all working really and we all have some goals since the beginning of August. We knew what we wanted to do in conference. I think we’ve all been doing great, I think it’s going to go really well. I’m excited.” A successful year of a student athlete may be based on just how well his or her team performs, but it looks like Casin-Silva is planning on making a positive out of it no matter the outcome.
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CONFERENCE USA STANDINGS All standings are current as of Sunday, Oct. 27 and the records are reflective of conference play, not overall. WOMEN’S SOCCER East Division (W-L-T) FIU (5-4-0) Charlotte (4-3-2) UAB (4-3-2) East Carolina (4-4-1) Marshall (3-4-2) Middle Tenn. (3-4-2) FAU (2-4-3) Old Dominion (1-6-2) West Division (W-L-T) Colorado Co. (7-1-1) UTEP (5-2-2) North Texas (5-3-1) UTSA (4-3-2) Rice (4-4-1)
Tulsa (3-3-3) Louisiana Tech (4-5-0) Southern Miss (1-6-2)
MEN’S SOCCER Team (W-L-T) Old Dominion (6-1-0) UAB (4-1-1) New Mexico (4-1-1) South Carolina (3-1-2) Tulsa (2-3-2) FIU (2-4-0) Charlotte (1-3-2) Kentucky (1-3-2) FAU (1-4-1) Marshall (0-3-3)
Wednesday, Oct. 30
VOLLEYBALL Team (W-L) Tulsa (9-0) UTSA (8-1) Tulane (7-1) Marshall (7-2) Middle Tenn. (6-2) UAB (5-4) UTEP (5-4) North Texas (5-4) FIU (4-6) Southern Miss (3-6) Rice (3-6) East Carolina (2-6) FAU (1-7) Louisiana Tech (1-8) Charlotte (0-9)
Golf
Away - Pacific Invitational
Men’s Soccer
Away - Florida Atlantic 7 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 31 Women’s Soccer
Away - Old Dominion 7 p.m.
Golf
Away - Pacific Invitational
Friday, Nov. 1 Volleyball
Home vs. UTSA 7 p.m.
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Saturday, Nov. 2 Golf
Away - Pacific Invitational
Cross Country
Away - Conference USA Championships
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49ers linebacker Nico Alcalde tallied eight total tackles, seven solo tackles, three tackles for a loss and forced a fumble in Saturday’s game against Charleston Southern. Volleyball senior Amanda Videmsek recorded her third straight double-double with 16 kills and 19 digs in Saturday’s loss against Marshall.
Women’s soccer freshman Ari Reilley recorded her first career goal on Friday during the 1-0 win over Marshall at home. Women’s tennis sophomore Tyler Baker not only made her first appearance of the season over the weekend in the 49er Invitational, but also picked up a pair of singles wins. 49ers Mark Pettit recorded his first career sack on Saturday at Charleston Southern that resulted in a loss of seven yards.
Women’s Basketball
Home vs. Johnson C. Smith (Exhibition) 2 p.m.
Men’s Basketball
Home vs. Wingate (Exhibition) 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 3 Volleyball
Football
Home vs. UTEP 1 p.m.
Men’s Soccer
Monday, Nov. 4
Away - Coastal Carolina 1:30 p.m.
Home - Marshall 7 p.m.
Women’s Soccer
Away - Conference USA Championships
OCT. 29 - NOV. 4, 2013
NINERTIMES
MCT Campus
OVERL KING STATE GOVERNMENT APATHY AND IGNORANCE KEEPS MOST STUDENTS FROM SEEING THE IMPORTANCE OF LOCAL ELECTIONS AND LEGISLATURE
SEAN GRIER INTERN
By the time I graduate, there will have been eight major elections that affect North Carolinians and, most importantly, Niners. At times, I was appalled when conversing with fellow students, especially during the 2012 presidential election. It seemed no one knew who Walter Dalton was, and the only reason most knew of Pat McCrory was because of his tenure as mayor of Charlotte. Many students didn’t know some of the most significant candidates on the ballot screen. They didn’t know who the candidates were or what they stood for or why they should care. Here is a thought that evades the minds of the general public: most people will never meet the president or their senator, and the odds of meeting a Supreme Court justice is even lower, yet most of the attention within each state goes to them. It could be the media, the power of the federal government or ignorance. As a college student you are more likely to meet Charlotte’s mayor, a council member, a commissioner from Mecklenburg County – hell, many of you will meet a judge for those underage drinking, public intoxication and speeding tickets before you ever meet the president. So why does my generation ignore the importance of these individuals? I have concluded that we do not know their worth. My generation doesn’t understand the power and authority given to each office stated above, and that will only come back to haunt us. Every student in North Carolina was required to take Civics & Economics. This class was not put in place to make youth suffer but to
HOW IT AFFECTS YOU • • • • •
N.C. has increased tuition for in-state and out-of-state students three times N.C. has capped the gas tax when those officials ran on reducing said tax The General Assembly have axed the tax-free holiday They have restricted your right to vote They increased taxes on the middle class
teach them the importance of being responsible, tax-paying adults who know the system in which they live and abide by the laws accordingly. But, no, not here where most of the political chatter was about Mitt Romney’s “47 percent” gaffe and Obama’s failed Benghazi and “Fast and Furious” policies. They cared about the individual that would be placed in the most powerful position at the most inopportune moment in American history. Do not mistake my disdain for the intelligence (or lack thereof) of the youth as a reason to totally disregard presidential elections, but no one should ever go to the ballot completely ignorant of the names and platforms on which those names stand. Today, I believe college students who align with Republican, Democrat, Independent and Green platforms alike are both literally and figuratively paying for their apathy. They are paying in ways
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.
NINERONLINE.COM
many wouldn’t foresee. Who would have thought that the Republican controlled General Assembly would raise taxes on the middle class on the same day it axed the estate tax (a tax that targeted wealthy families in North Carolina). The grand Tar Heel state is now a laughing stock until the next election. Our state tried to pass an immigration bill and an official state religion. It did pass a devastating budget, voter, abortion, tax and education reform bill(s). Only time will tell how those bills will affect us, but for most students, time and money are in limited supply. The reduction in Pell Grants from the state affect many students who wish to learn, and for some it boils down to a lack of participation in our election system. For too long Americans and North Carolinians alike have looked past state government for the answers to what ails them. For too long we have looked to federal offices and organization. During the federal shutdown, there were only two offices within our state that were delayed significantly. That should show you how much power your own state has. Our state does not stop operations because of the federal government, so shift more focus to state elections; they deserve equal attention and research. By the time I graduate, there will be a minimum of three budget resolutions, 13 judicial positions to elect as well as elections for governor, county commissioners, city council members and mayor. I hope my generation takes a step to be proactive in their lives. You didn’t vote? You shouldn’t complain.
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.
OCT. 29 - NOV. 4, 2013
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While living the “college experience,” students must remember what matters most – not how they got there, but where they are going ARIEL CLAYBORN
ASST. OPINION EDITOR Being an adult sucks. Being a young adult sucks even more. Let’s face it – our parents took care of most of the hard stuff for us. They paid our bills, gave us a house to live in and provided free food and laundry services. What could anyone else possibly ask for? Suddenly adulthood comes knocking on our doors and pries us from our comfort zones, throwing us into this unfamiliar and previously uncharted world called “Independence.” We pay our own bills now, find our own homes to live in, buy our own food and do our own laundry. As other students can surely attest to, college really puts our problem-solving skills to the test. At some point during our time in college, we will also eventually be confronted with an inevitable truth: our initial expectations about the college experience will be mercilessly challenged, and probably crushed, by a rude awakening called reality. College is typically portrayed as somewhat of an extension of an MTV-style spring break vacation: wild parties, late nights, run-ins with the cops, hook-ups and “you had to be there” moments. Where students attend college means everything. “Is it a party school?” “What sports do they have?” “What’s the town like?” While some of these portrayals can be valid, students living
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through the college experience themselves learn that college has another wild side that is not always as carefree as we would like it to be. Like Alice of “Alice in Wonderland,” undergraduate students attending college for the first time curiously explore their academic interests in the unfamiliar world of college. Every student will experience the feeling of becoming lost in the flurry of decisions we are forced to make and the nervousness about whether or not we are making the right ones. According to Purdue University’s Center for Career Opportunities website, research has shown that up to 80 percent of students entering college are unsure of what they want to major in, even if they already declared a major. Furthermore, 50 percent of college students will change their major at least once. The decision to change majors may mean extending your time in college or even transferring to another university. For me, the latter was my option. I transferred to UNC Charlotte last semester from Appalachian State University. When asked about why I chose UNC Charlotte, it was always assumed that I wasn’t satisfied with my former university. In actuality, I maintained quite a few close friendships there and still visit Boone on occasion. The more I answered the ques-
tion, the more the question became difficult to answer. I knew how I personally came to make my decision, but I could see why it would baffle other students. If there was nothing wrong with the university, why did I make the change? Transferring is a big move to make. Other transfer students and I know that it wasn’t easy to uproot ourselves from an environment that we were already comfortable with to start all over again. We feared losing certain people along the way. It can be strenuous trying to keep the intimacy of a friendship or, in some cases, a romantic relationship alive from miles away. The most unnerving, yet humbling thing about taking a risk is the uncertainty of the outcome. In “Alice in Wonderland,” Alice is haphazardly guided by the White Rabbit through a variety of fantasy worlds, each one allowing her to participate in very whimsical experiences along the way. She did not know exactly where the White Rabbit was going, but she believed that where he was going was the place she wanted to be. As hard as it is to explain, I guess the answer to why I decided to transfer to UNC Charlotte is that I was chasing the White Rabbit. To me, the White Rabbit represents a personal compass that helps us figure out our paths
OCT. 29 - NOV. 4, 2013
through life. Sometimes, the way it takes you will not make sense. Sometimes it will frustrate you, lead you through terrifying obstacles, and maybe even have you feeling doubtful that you’ll ever get to where you want to be – but you will. The White Rabbit is a reminder that it doesn’t matter where you come from or how you got there. Each turn and change you make through life will never be experienced the same way again. The point is to keep focused on the destination ahead. You will hear many people talk about their own individual experiences, but students should remember that success stories are inspiration, not instruction manuals. No one journey is the right journey. Don’t be afraid of crossroads and dead ends. We will all make mistakes, but that does not mean that it’s the end for us and that we cannot change anything. Life will take us in an assortment of directions that we may never comprehend. Sometimes, it is more about the experience than the understanding. We will lose a lot, but we will also gain much more. Listen to your instincts, and have confidence in your judgments. Where will the White Rabbit take you next?
NINERTIMES
WHERE TO FIND THE
BOOS
Spooky Charlotte area attractions look to trick and treat you this Halloween HAUNTED BALL COSTUME AT WHISKEY RIVER On Oct. 29, Whiskey River will be giving away over $1,000 in cash and prizes for the best costumes of the night. Dress up in any costume from sexy to scary for your chance to win some awesome prizes throughout the night. Don’t forget to try some of their amazing food while you are there. Drink specials include $2 Miller Light and $3 SOCO Cherry Flushes. 210 East Trade Street A-208, Charlotte, NC 28202
CAMPGROUND MASSACRE
CARNEVIL MASQUERADE
From Oct. 30 to Nov. 2, this massacre has three acres of horrifying haunted attractions. Although it is a bit of a drive, the boos will be worth it. Tickets cost $20. This has been described as a “living horror movie” so only attend if you can handle anything and everything scary. After visiting the campground, you can make your way over to John’s Bar for some dinner and drinks.
Come enjoy some live music and drinks at the Carnevil Masquerade at Label Charlotte. Make sure you dress up in your best costume because there are cash prizes. This event is on Oct. 31 at Label Charlotte for $15 and is open to anyone 21 and up. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and masks are required. There are fire shows, fashion shows and a psychic will be making an appearance.
940 Gold Hill Road, Fort Mill, S.C. 29715
900 NC Music Factory Blvd, Charlotte, N.C. 28206
UNCC CONFESSIONS MASQUERADE On Saturday, Nov. 2, UNCC Confessions will hold their first-ever event at Firewater Restaurant and Bar. Cash and prizes will be given out for the best costumes, so think out of the box and come up with an awesome costume to wow the judges. Drink specials include $2 Budwiser and Bud Light and $3 shots. The party begins at 10 p.m. 8708 JW Clay Blvd, Charlotte, N.C. 28262
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OCT. 29 - NOV. 4, 2013
AMANDA DUKE
ASST. LIFESTYLE EDITOR
MICHELLE LIRINGIS LIFESTYLE EDITOR
BAR CRAWL AT THE EPICENTRE The 8th Annual Howler Costume Bar Crawl is $10 per person from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. The Bar Crawl will allow you to cut the line and you will not have to pay the cover charge at the participating bars in the EpiCentre. There will also be special drink prices at some of the bars. Clubs include Suite, Black Fin, Howl at the Moon and Strike City. Tickets are available through the EpiCentre’s website. 210 E Trade St, Charlotte, N.C. 28202
AMAZING MAIZE MAZE The Amazing Maize Maze has 265 acres of mazes, hayrides, hiking trails and pumpkin picking. The maze is open Friday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for $10 per person. You will be given a piece of a map to help you get through the maze. As you venture off, you will find up to 12 mailboxes, and they will have pieces of the map also. Once you collect all 12 pieces of the map, you will be able to successfully make your way out of the maze. Nov. 1 and 2 are flashlight maze days. Starting at 6 p.m. for $15, you can go through the mazes with a flashlight in the dark. There is also music and bonfires on these nights. 4431 Neck Road, Huntersville, N.C. 28078
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DOCTOR SLEEP BY STEPHEN KING MICHELLE LIRINGIS LIFESTYLE EDITOR
Stephen King fans have been waiting years for a sequel of his best-selling 1977 novel “The Shining.” Dedicated readers have wondered what happened to Danny Torrance, the little boy who survived horrors at the Overlook Hotel in Colorado. On Sept. 24, King released “Doctor Sleep,” ending the 36 year wait and answering numerous questions. King opens up the novel with a brief summary of the end of “The Shining” –the book version. Fans of the 1980 Stanley Kubrick film may be confused as the novel and the film ended differently. The summary is braided within new information that starts propelling the story forward. Mrs. Massey (who may be remembered as the rotting, water-logged grandmother who nearly strangled Danny to death in the first book) comes back to haunt Danny, and it becomes clear that he will never be able to move on. For the bulk of the tale, Danny, now Dan Torrance, is an adult. He has succumbed to alcoholism like his father yet does not want to follow in Jack’s footsteps. The beginning of the book was terrifying. With every page turn, I shuddered with fear of what monster may be on the page. Dan makes contact with a young girl who also has the
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shining and soon sets off on a quest to battle a group of people –if they can be called such –who eat and collect the souls of children with the shining. These villains are psychic nomad vampires called The True Knot. As the story progresses, it becomes less terrifying and more suspenseful. Despite having written for so many years, King has certainly not lost his keen storytelling ability. Sequels tend to get a bad rap for being sub-par to their earlier counterparts, but I don’t think that is the case for “Doctor Sleep.” It was different from “The Shining” in that the horror factor is toned down. Readers are rooting for Danny in “Doctor Sleep” whereas they were almost rooting for Jack’s downfall in “The Shining.” King could have introduced more of an obstacle for Danny to conquer. He is faced with the demons of his past, but as the reader, I never had the sharp pain I get in my gut when I worry a character I have grown to love will be killed off. Despite the slower pace as the novel develops, King is a genius when it comes to character development and connection. Overall, I would give the novel four out of five stars.
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Photo courtesy of Ken Phillips Publicity Group
CAPITAL CITIES IN SPITE OF RISING SUCCESS, THE DUO HAS NO INTENTIONS OF RESTING ON THEIR LAURELS ARIEL CLAYBORN
ASST. OPINION EDITOR Known for their enormous sunglasses and their single “Safe and Sound” from the group’s studio album “In a Tidal Wave of Mystery,” Capital Cities has transcended the indie genre and delved into the world of pop music, storming the Top 40. In addition to being a hit in the States, “Safe and Sound” has topped charts in countries such as Germany, Mexico and Italy. “It’s a song that helped us get to where we are today,” said band member Ryan Merchant. “It started off in a very grass roots manner. We put the song on the internet, and it just started to spread organically.” Although the single “Safe and Sound” has since become a global hit, the group has no intentions of being a one-hit wonder. In light of the single’s immense success, Capital Cities continues to
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gain fans with the release of other singles like “Kangaroo Court.” Merchant likes to especially direct Capital Cities listeners to the group’s recent “Farrah Fawcett Hair” music video on YouTube, which the group collaborated on with André 3000. One of the unique aspects of the group that is becoming a quintessential part of their music is the sound of the trumpet, which packs a dynamic punch to their performances. “I think the integration of the trumpet into pretty much every song that we play is a unique feature of Capital Cities … people love [the trumpeter] and it just adds some spice to the show,” said Merchant. Another dynamic part of Capital Cities performances is that they are all about having uninhibited fun. The group likes to use their music to challenge their fans with changing chord progressions, melodies and
instrumentation. “We like to put surprises in our music that feel novel, that feel unique and fresh, in addition to the sort of familiar that you get in our music, which is what people can latch onto,” said Merchant. Unfortunately, Capital Cities is no longer wearing their iconic giant sunglasses or giving sunglasses out at their shows, but the trademark look is still used in the group’s performances as stage props. “For this new tour, we actually built a new, upgraded version of those sunglasses that’s probably up to 2 1/2 times the size,” said Merchant. “It’s definitely become a part of our brand and a part of our vibe. We might stick with it for a while.” The group has much to look forward to in the upcoming year. Although they have already toured
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overseas, Capital Cities plans to continue expanding their fan base across the globe with new music releases in 2014. Good news is also in store for Capital Cities fans as well. Sebu Simonian, the additional member of the Capital Cities duo, is expecting the birth of his son in February. The group’s trumpet player has also purchased a trombone, which may become another quirky addition to Capital Cities’ unique sound in future albums. Merchant is very excited to bring the Capital Cities experience to the Carolinas next month. “I can’t wait. I love Charlotte. I love North Carolina,” said Merchant. Capital Cities will be performing on Nov. 6 at Amos’ Southend. Doors open at 7 p.m.
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‘GOOD PEOPLE’ DELIVERS BRYAN ARCHILLA INTERN
The cast of “Good People” includes UNC Charlotte graduate Alexis Louder. Photo courtesy of NCCast.com
”Good People,” written by Pulitzer Prize winner David Lindsay-Abaire, follows the struggles of a single mother. The subject, Marie Walsh (Cynthia Farbman Harris), lost her job at the dollar store and now needs to provide for her mentally-challenged daughter as well as pay the rent to her landlady Dottie (Annette B. Gill) or face eviction. Margie is actively looking for a job when her friend Jean (Anne Lambert) tells her she ran into a childhood friend named Mike (Lamar Wilson), who is now a doctor, and suggests that Margie finds him to see if he has anything she could do at his office. Margie finds Mike and asks for a job, but in absence of a viable position, he invites her to his birthday party to meet his wife Katie (Alexis Louder) and allows her to mingle with his colleagues in hopes that they have something. From there, things escalate into a warming yet emotional ending that is both thought-provoking and satisfying. The play is well-written and ex-
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pertly performed. There was never a moment in the play where one line felt out of place or delivered erroneously. The actors have a lovely delivery and an ability to make the characters seem real, relatable and honest. The characters themselves are skillfully created. Jean’s dark humor works incredibly well with Margie’s shyer nature, while Mike’s sarcasm and wit offsets Maggie’s comfort zone. “Good People” offers social commentary of the socioeconomic discrepancies we see in today’s world. Everyone is concerned with status or money, with the opinions of others or the desperation of not being able to provide for the ones under their care. “Good People” is clever and thoroughly enjoyable. While it’s definitely a play to go see if you’re into the theatre scene, it’s also a good place to start if you’re not. “Good People” will be presented at CAST (Carolina Actors Studio Theatre) until Nov. 9. To buy tickets, visit the CAST website.
ACROSS 1 Wedding reception fare 16 Hunter’s accessory 17 Fourth-generation relative 18 Wrong 19 1980s pop duo with an exclamation point in their name 20 Stowe novel 21 Chanel competitor 22 Chihuahua chatter 25 Rent-__ 28 Jolly Roger crewman 29 Desperate letters 32 Certain cohabitant 37 Anglican leader 38 Beethoven work completed the same year as the “Moonlight” 39 Cobb and others
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40 Get up 41 Scrapes (out) 42 Moments 43 One may be zapped 46 Deuce follower 49 Cup part 50 One of Can.’s Maritime provinces 53 Have a considerably negative effect on 58 Recipe datum 59 Fitness specialist DOWN 1 Crones 2 “Dallas” actor Katz 3 Bootleggers’ foes 4 ‘70s Chinese leader 5 Huddle directive 6 In order 7 Cattle drive concern 8 Spherical meas.
9 Suffix with bass 10 Close 11 “Buffy” airer after The WB 12 Cancels 13 Penitent 14 Old Roman cry 15 Discard 21 Peak 22 Liberal 23 Takes in 24 Alloy prefix 25 Pro 26 Pharmacy figure 27 Not in order 28 Bygone pharmacy fixture 29 Preview opener? 30 Montevideo-to-Buenos Aires dirección 31 Sp. lasses 33 Tie, perhaps 34 Like doughnuts 35 “Not for me” 36 Pointed, in a way 42 Marsh bird 43 It may be inherited 44 Bounce 45 Appliance maker once owned by Raytheon 46 Intensifies, with “up” 47 Skinny 48 Robert of “The Sopranos” 49 Three-time LPGA Player of the Year Daniel 50 Nabokov novel 51 Edward’s adoptive mother in the “Twilight” series 52 Anatomical passage 54 A spray might be used for one 55 Uru. neighbor 56 Parlor work, briefly 57 “Lord, is __?”: Matthew
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THE COLLEGE STUDENT’S GUIDE TO SURVIVING
HORROR FILMS TAKE THE ADVICE OF THE AUDIENCE TO AVOID THE PITFALLS OF SCARY MOVIE STARLETS
SURVIVAL TIP 1: AVOID HAUNTED RESIDENCES When searching for a place to stay at while in college, avoid the ones that have a history of criminal activity. Examples like “The Conjuring” and “The Amityville Horror” have proven that residences like these are breeding grounds for paranormal activity. It doesn’t matter if it’s a malevolent demon or Casper the friendly ghost, avoid sleeping in a haunted building at all costs. So when the furniture starts levitating or someone gets possessed, it’s time to call an exorcist or find a new apartment.
CHESTER GRIFFIN
SURVIVAL TIP 2: NEVER BE ALONE
SURVIVAL TIP 3: KEEP RUNNING
When there’s a noise in the basement or cellar, don’t be the one that volunteers to check it out. It doesn’t matter how many Scooby snacks are offered, splitting up should never be an option. One might think that acting like a hero and venturing out in the dark will impress their friends, but it only increases the chances of getting axed. It’s when people are alone that they are at the greatest risk of getting killed, so survival is more likely when friends stick together as a group.
Jason Voorhees and Michael Myers don’t exactly run track, so it would seem possible to simply outrun them. In most situations, instead of continuously running, the victim will hide behind a tree and hope their pursuer will walk on by. Hiding is practically a death sentence and environments are filled with potentially noisy objects that could alert any potential killer. A simple step on a crunchy leaf or the snap of a twig will send a wide range of clatter right into the killer’s ear.
SURVIVAL TIP 4: NEVER LOOK BACK
INTERN
Oftentimes when being pursued, the individual will look back instead of keeping their eyes forward. By looking back and checking their distance from their killer, they leave themselves vulnerable to what’s ahead. There could be a protruding root in the ground or a meddlesome tree branch in the way. Odds are that person isn’t going to see it and will likely trip and fall to the ground.
SURVIVAL TIP 5: HAVE A RELIABLE VEHICLE In many horror movies, someone will outrun the killer and make it to a vehicle to escape, but when they turn the key in the ignition, the car won’t start. This problem most likely occurs because the vehicle is either very old or in need of some serious repairs. That’s why when planning a trip with some friends, be sure at least one of them has a car that gets regularly scheduled maintenance.
SURVIVAL TIP 6: BE ABSOLUTELY SURE THE KILLER IS DEAD Usually in horror films, the killer never dies on the first try, so take caution before declaring victory. If by the off chance the killer is defeated, don’t leave the body unattended; follow the
guidelines of “Zombieland” and always “doubletap.” The point is by not guaranteeing the killer’s demise, it will only hurt one’s chances of survival, or worse, open up the possibility of a sequel.
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