Issue 2 Seminole Scribe by The Seminole Scribe

OctOber 2013 | 1

the

Seminole Issue No. 2

SCRiBe Email us at thescribe@seminolestate.edu

October 2013

2 | Seminole Scribe

Unfamilar on #Syria? Read this.

ome students might not know where Syria is located but the recent chemical weapons attack on the Syrian people has brought the country to the forefront in American politics.

Syria’s continuing civil war, which began in 2011, chemical deployment, and increasing number of refugees are concerning neighboring countries and European nations. Michael Hoover, a political science professor at Seminole State College, said protesters in Egypt and Tunisia in 2011 influenced Syrians to take to the streets to oppose their dictatorship government. The Assad regime, currently in control of the Syrian government, retaliated with brutal repression, but is not something new to the people of Syria. “His father [Assad’s father: Hafez al-Assad] responded to street demonstrations by killing thousands of people and destroying neighborhoods and villages. Like father, like son,” Professor Hoover said via email.

By Ashley Young The Seminole Scribe is the official student

people.”

With regard to the chemical attack killing thousands outside of the Syrian capital, Damascus, President Barack Obama responded by calling for a military strike against the Assad regime, which is believed to be responsible, according to a United Nation’s report and a Committee on Foreign Relations resolution. YouTube flooded the internet with children convulsing from the alleged chemical attack. Many of the victims showed families with young children.

The death toll from the civil conflict is numbered at more than 100,000, according to the United Nations.

Seminole State student Marie Bodek said the proposed missile strike “really could go either way.”

Due to the bloody civil war, many Syrians have been fleeing their homes for safety and seeking retreat in neighboring countries Jordan, Turkey and Iraq. The UN reports the refugee population is more than two million.

“Is this really our place to step in and take care of it?” she said.

Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, Martin Nesirky, said in a September briefing neighboring countries are “stretched to their limits,” trying to provide room for increasing numbers.

As pressure built against the missile strike, Russia began conversations with Syria and the U.S. The two began to work together to eliminate Syria’s chemicals weapons in late September. On Sept. 27, 2013, The Organization for Prohibition of Chemical Weapons council approved an historic agreement to eliminate Syria’s chemical weapons by mid-2014.

As the civil war continues, the UN Refugee Agency reports there will be an increasing addition of 50,000 more refugees; the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East seems to be escalating. “They are humans like us,” Seminole State’s Associate Dean of Social Sciences Baboucar Jobe, Ph.D., said. “You have children over there, infants, [and] old

Size correlation of Syria and surrounding countries inside the state of Texas Illustation by Ashley Young

Even if Assad hands over its chemical weapons, the civil war will continue, Professor Hoover said, and ending Assad’s regime would most likely increase the dangerous character of rebel forces.

Research compiled by Ashley Young

Timeline of recent Syrian Events Chemical attack occurs outside of Syrian capital, Damascus. Killing over one thousand people, including children, according to The White House.

August 21, 2013

2011

The Arab Spring occurs, protestors in Egypt and Tunisia influence Syrians to oppose their authoritarian government. The Syrian Civil War begins.

Senate Committee on Foreign Relations approves to use military force on Syria, however, waiting for a vote from House and Senate.

September 3, 2013

September 1, 2013 President Obama calls on congress to vote for a limited military strike against the Bashar al-Assad regime, which is in control of the Syrian government, for using chemical weapons on their people.

The United Nations report on Syria’s alleged chemical weapon use confirms the nerve gas sarin was deployed on a large scale.

September 16, 2013

September 27, 2013

September 10, 2013 President Obama addresses the nation to say hair and blood samples from the site confirm positive for sarin, a chemical Syria is known to possess in large quantities. Syria states they will hand over their chemical weapons.President Obama said “It’s too early to tell whether this offer will succeed.” He decides to postpone the missile strike vote, but is still an option if diplomacy fails.

The Organization of Prohibition of Chemical Weapons approves a historic resolution to eliminate Syria’s chemical weapons by 2014, but no resolution for the civil war.

“It’s like little Mexico in my mouth.”

ongos banging, maracas shaking and the bobbing of heads followed the rhythm of the beat. That was the scene at Seminole State College’s Altamonte campus recently for National Hispanic Heritage month. National Hispanic Heritage month, from September 15 to October 15 each year, was enacted by President

Lyndon Johnson and expanded by President Ronald Reagan in the 80s. One of the main reasons it is between September to October is because many Hispanic countries gained independence between those months, according to hispanicheritagemonth.org. President of Student Engagement Team, Diana Hilker, which helped

THE SEMINOLE SCRIBE

By Tiffany Rosario

put on the events, said she wanted to help people be more informed on what goes on in other cultures. “I want people to know what Hispanics went through,” she said glancing over the amount of people starting to take interest. “I have timelines representing the wars and stuff.” MEXICO continued on page 3

newspaper of Seminole State College of Florida EDITOR Melissa B. Merkler STAFF REPORTERS Eric Anderson Michael Brown Sean Doty Christina Fleming Alicia Gonzalez Carissa May Joseph Meadows Joey Metych John Nunez Leyla Rad George Rivera TIffany Rosario Ashley Young Faculty Adviser Jennifer Sheppard

EDITORIAL POLICY Viewpoints expressed in columns and letters to the editor are the opinion of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of The Seminole Scribe or Seminole State College. Letters or columns can be emailed or dropped off at the office. Please limit letters to 500 words, and include phone number, name and area of study or affiliation. Letters will not be printed anonymously. We reserve the right to reject letters. MISSION STATEMENT We are a student-run newspaper that aims to construct a publication of professionalism. Through each individual staffer’s utmost potential, we write for the interest of the school and its student body to deliver a quality news and entertainment source that uphold traditional journalistic values. PUBLIC FORUM The Seminole Scribe is a “designated public forum.” Student editors have authority to make all content decisions without censorship or advance approval. COPYRIGHT ©2013 The Seminole Scribe. All rights reserved. All content is property of The Seminole Scribe and may not be reproduced or transmitted without consent. The Scribe is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press, Florida Community College Press Association and College Media Advisers Inc. CONTACT US Room J-107 Sanford/Lake Mary thescribe@seminolestate.edu

ASHES TO ASHES Smoking’s Dusted M

By Michael Brown

any placards placed around school inform visitors of the new “Tobacco Free College,” at Seminole State College, which follows in the footsteps of the University of Central Florida and Valencia College. The Tobacco Free College policy that was implemented this semester bans any form of tobacco, including cigarettes, pipe tobacco, dip and even electronic cigarettes. Students may be wondering how these new rules will be put into effect so The Seminole Scribe investigated how this new policy will function and it’s purpose along with feelings of the students. Claudia Salvano, Ph.D., director of policy and labor at Seminole State, said the main goal of the new policy is education and making people aware.

“It is a big change for the college,” she said. “We’re not looking for the ‘gotcha.’ ” The goal of going smoke free, she said, is not to “zing people.” “It’s to make them more aware of the risks of tobacco use so that they can find solutions into giving up the use of tobacco,” Dr. Salvano said, adding that the policy has been a “pretty welcomed change.” “A lot of public local news media, students and employees, and interviewers have given positive feedback,” she said. “It’s actually change that we believe is for the better, for better health.” Over the summer, school officials removed the designated smoking areas on campus. “Having designated smoking areas meant that we still allowed smoking and tobacco use at the college and that really is a contradiction to where the college is heading, in terms of developing a wellness center and wellness programs for employees and students,” Dr. Salvano said.

Photo by Melissa B. Merkler

October 2013 | 3 Since the fall semester started, student reactions to the policy have been mixed but Kristen Sporki said she doesn’t mind it. “I had a father used tobacco,” she said. “He used to dip and, knowing the consequences, the policy hits home. So it’s almost like a personal thing, too; I’m kind of glad that it’s there ‘cause I know what comes from it.” However, student backlash came from a group of students, Kimberly Rivie, Melissa Reyes and Wendys Cardenas, who each, at one point, described the policy as “stupid,” and said they believed that it was unfair to implement a rule more strict than a United States law. “I think it’s your right, as long as we’re abiding by the law,” Ms. Rivie said of smoking on campus, adding that the nonsmokers could stay away from the designated areas.

SMOKING continued on page 4

MEXICO continued from page 2

The event, from noon to two in front of the main entrance of the Altamonte campus, was perfect timing as students were heading out of class and the lines just began to form for free T-shirts from S.E.T and food provided by La Fogata Latin Eatery & Bistro in Altamonte Springs. Helping serve food was the Student Government Association who were dressed in traditional Mexican attire with the sombreros, ponchos and maracas trying to engage the students by shaking them around to the beat of a salsa group hired to perform and represent the musical side of Hispanics. Student Astrid Rodriguez, who is Honduran, stood in line with a big smile on her face, constantly jumping around and speaking to her friends excitedly since this was her first time celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month. “With the hats and ponchos, I’m not Mexican. I wish they had every culture,” she said. Not only was the attire a complaint by displaying only Mexican wear, but the music was also too loud for some professors teaching classes inside the building and also some students were unable to focus on the professors lectures. However, the group did help set the mood as students and professors who were not in class swayed along to the sounds. Regional shift supervisor for Seminole State, Debra Digioia who was promoting national safety awareness month said, “it’s a shame that they’re getting complaints, they’re a great group. I’ve seen them in Orlando before.” As things started to simmer down, the salsa group took a break, most students went to class, the food was reviewed by SGA’s Martha Espinal, and Ansha Roberts and Rachel Dunbar. Espinal and Dunbar said the food was delicious, tasty and scrumptious. “You can tell it’s homemade,” Ms. Roberts said, “it’s like little Mexico in my mouth.” Photos by Tiffany Rosario

4 | Seminole Scribe

SMOKING continued from page 3 “Whoever doesn’t want to smoke, don’t go to that f***ing area. It’s as simple as that,” Ms. Rivie said.

Other students like Ms. Sporki said she wasn’t decided whether smoking should be allowed. “But, you know, the facts are there,” she said. “The studies are there that it’s not healthy for you. A lot of things aren’t. It even comes with its own warning label, so it’s not an overall thing.” The “Tobacco Free College” policy is campus-wide and includes parking lots and smoking in personal vehicles, Dr. Salvano said, since the cars are “on college property.” “There’s still a second-hand smoke issue,” she said. “People get out and this big cloud and it follows them. Again, it kind of contradicts our purpose of trying to move to a healthier lifestyle.” On the cost of implementing the policy, Dr. Salvano said, “pretty minimal.” “I don’t know the costs of the signs,” she said. “I don’t have that figure because I wasn’t involved in ordering them...I do believe that we had a small grant, about $2,500, that was used toward marketing materials.” At press time, campus maps have not been updated to reflect the policy however students wishing to use tobacco products will need to leave campus completely with the new policy. Of the steps to reporting a violation of smoking on campus, Dr. Salvano said disciplinary action is taken per student or employee if multiple infractions incur against the policy. “If you see someone, you’re encouraged to make that person aware of the Tobacco Free Policy and ask that person to follow,” Dr. Salvano said.

Information on the Tobacco Free College policy can be found at www.seminolestate.edu/ tobaccofree

Courtesy not needed at roundabout, but follow road signs

By Melissa B. Merkler

riving down Weldon Boulevard any time of the day may be dreadful when approaching the roundabout. Tensions rise as the bottlenecked-road merges down to one lane. Once there, what is a driver to do: yield, come to a complete stop or just keep going? Joel Stout, a professional engineer with Lounsbury & Associates in Anchorage, Alaska, said it would be nice to have courtesy at a roundabout but it’s not required. However, he said, “drivers need to follow the traffic laws.” All drivers entering Seminole State College campus should learn how to use the roundabout, which has two signs that drivers should be familiar with: the black and white One Way way sign with an arrow pointing in the direction of the flow of traffic and the red and white upside down triangle Yield sign.

Alvarez said she has seen pedestrians trying to cross the center island. She said she could see the fear on the faces of students attempting to dodge cars. More cities in the United States are turning to roundabouts as a means to move traffic without bringing it to a complete stop, according to James “Jim” Lee, Associate Dean for the Center for Public Safety at Seminole State College.

“The ‘Yield’ sign requires drivers that wish to enter the circle to give priority to drivers that are already inside the circle,” Mr. Stout said in an email.

At first glance, a roundabout may not look simple to use, however, Mr. Lee, who has worked for more than 36 years with the Florida Highway Patrol, said it is a “well-engineered device.”

Marcela Alvarez, a Seminole State College student, said it is much easier now to get into the parking lots since the roundabout replaced the windy road that split the campus in two.

“As long as you use normal, careful and prudent driving techniques you should easily drive through it,” he said.

Some students may not remember how the intersection was laid out before the roundabout was built. But Mrs. Alvarez said “it was very bad, with lots of turns.” She had to make a U-turn just to get where she needed to go. Sitting on the steps of the J-building overlooking the main entrance to the Sanford/Lake Mary campus, Mrs. Alvarez said the worst thing about the roundabout is the small size. “The time frame between one car and another is challenging and kind of dangerous,” she said. Listening to the squeaky breaks of a Lynx bus trying to make its way through the roundabout while a slow drizzling rain comes down, Mrs. Alvarez said she has no choice but to use the roundabout even though she has witnessed accidents as she was approaching the roundabout. A car was entering the roundabout and another car did not stop, she said, and hit each other in the front. The crash created further traffic delays.

Students should use caution since traffic can enter the roundabout on an available basis.

roundabout tips

* Use extra caution during the merging process when approaching roundabout * The driver must always yield to traffic coming from the left * Enter when it is safe * If no traffic is present, enter at any time

In addition, students should always be prepared to yield, “even if you have the right away,” Mr. Lee said. Furthermore, Mr. Lee said roundabouts help prevent right angle collisions, “which can be the most severe,” he said, such as an accident at a stop sign or traffic light which can result in a “t-bone [crash].” Students should feel comfortable knowing if a crash occurs at the roundabout, Mr. Lee said: “they are usually far less severe than a four-way stop.”

In addition to vehicles traveling through the roundabout, Mrs.

To learn more about the history of roundabouts, visit alaskaroundabouts.com.

Photos by Melissa B. Merkler

O 2013 | 5 A woman’s journey toward weight loss ctober

By Alicia Gonzalez

Myoung Cunningham said the weight loss process starts with “your head and your heart.” Photo provided by Myoung Cunningham

ike many searching for happiness through weight loss, Myoung Cunningham, 25, a mother of three, said she pretended to eat healthy in front of others, but, when she found herself alone, binged and purged, eating too much and throwing it up. Then she followed that with three hours of cardio on an empty stomach, trying many different ways to lose weight, some which could be considered dangerous. “I was basically starving myself to death,” she said, sometimes eating less than her children to get faster results. After her child saw her throwing up, she decided to make a change. “That, for me, was a very humbling moment,” she said. But before coming to terms with her problem, Mrs. Cunningham said she noticed her insecurities and jealous feelings toward her husband who never had weight issues, her children and strangers. “I was mad at myself for becoming so unhealthy,” she said. Hearing her husband’s family make fun of her made her even angrier, she said. But, instead of dealing with her emotions, she ate more. “I just didn’t do it in front of them,” she said. Since her weight loss journey began, Mrs. Cunningham said she managed to lose weight the proper way. “It’s a day-by-day improvement,” she said, adding that going to the gym is one of the most important changes she made.

ADDERALL continued on page 6

“But it’s really what we do when we’re not there that counts,” she said.

WEIGHT continued on page 6

6 | Seminole Scribe

ADDERALL, WEIGHT continued from page 5

“There is a hot woman under there,” Ms. Cunningham said. “All you have to do is start caring about yourself and you will find her.” Photo by Alicia Gonzalez Along with changing her lifestyle, Mrs. Cunningham said her children now read nutritional labels and attend the gym regularly. “I used to be a drive-thru mom,” she said and also wanted to prevent them from having the same issues she faced while growing up as an overweight child and knowing her insecurities started there. “I firmly believe that an overweight child becomes an overweight teenager and then an overweight adult,” she said. Her husband Eric Cunningham was her biggest supporter, she said. “He changed his lifestyle for me,” she said. On advice for others dealing with weight trouble, Mrs. Cunningham said the best thing is to “believe in yourself.” “It starts with your head and your heart,” she said, “Where is your mind? Where is your heart? If they are both into it, the rest is honestly an amazing process.” The lifestyle change is “hard,” she said, apologizing as the tears ran down her face. “When you are so much overweight and you get to the point when you feel like there is no hope.” Her greatest motivations are her children and other women who strive to live better, she said. “There is a hot mom or a hot woman under there,” she said. “You don’t have to wear fewer clothes to find her or pile on the makeup to find her, all you have to do is start caring about yourself and you will find her.” Find out more about Mrs. Cunningham at www. momhasmuscle.com.

2013 | 7 Experts: emotions O could be linked to weight ctober

By Alicia Gonzalez

ome experts may have different views on how weight loss effects happiness but, the question remains, does weight loss equal happiness?

One of the main reasons weight is a problem for some people is due to overeating, according to Neal Wieder, D.C. of Pure Chiropractic and Natural Health in Lake Mary, Fla. “Why is it necessary when you breakup with somebody or you’re stressed at work to go out and have a milkshake? How is that going to make your life better?” he asked. Sometimes, people need an inexpensive tool to vent such as Overeaters Anonymous, a program for those who are suffering with compulsive eating by focusing on emotional, physical and overall well-being, Dr. Wieder said. For those trying to lose weight, the best results come from having a coach with a background in clinical nutrition, he said. It is also important for people to have a support system. “The hardest thing to do is not be defined by your weight, but to be defined by who you are as a person,” Dr. Wieder said. However, experts advise against being too consumed by the number on the scale. Some people could be missing out on life because of spending too much time losing and gaining weight, according to Mary Beth Griffis, Licensed Mental Health Counselor of Mary Beth Griffis LMHC in Winter Park, Fla. “People look down on you when you are not thin,” she said, adding that there is “so much pressure to be thin.” Some people force weight loss on themselves counting calories or restricting diets but it doesn’t necessarily rseult in happiness, she said. Other than using food, she said people should find comfort elsewhere and a tombstone will never state if a person is thin or not. “Whether or not you’re overweight or thin,” she said, “it doesn’t subtract from your value.”

Photo by Alicia Gonzalez

Local live music and entertainment

8 | Seminole Scribe

By Joseph Meadows

fter hitting the books, students might need a break from the grind of school, the job and, in general, responsibility. Usually, when reading something like this, a thought of Spring Break at insert beach here comes to mind or Winter Break with the holidays, laughter and eggnog.

The nights off and the weekend are that other break-time after tackling biology or philosophy or, who cares? Let’s party. There are plenty of music and entertainment venues in the area that reflect a diversity of tastes and a little something for everyone. But there’s more than musical offerings on the table.

The Lazy Gator at the Black Hammock features a stage with lots of room for guys to rock out left to right. It’s complete with a professional sound system, plenty of seating, a pool table, a long bar and it’s well lit and inviting. However, it does have what could be considered yard sale décor on the walls, like a Chili’s or Applebee’s where flair is king. The staff is somewhat attentive and more concerned with catching up with coworkers than serving drinks. Also, on a recent visit, a smoke alarm went off for a minute before it was subdued by an employee. It’s also smoker-friendly at the Lazy Gator, so feel free to light up while there.

Three venues featured below provide extra-curricular activities outside of the college experience. West End Trading Co. This Sanford watering hole kicks out shows for the masses, including performances from national bands like Fishbone to local acts like Thomas Wynn and the Believers, among others.

The compound is owned by Joel Martin, a native of France, who said “the first two years were a mess.” Now, it seems, he and Black Hammock have a niche in Oviedo.

All shows are ages eighteen and up, with music seven nights a week. Right in the middle of downtown Sanford with its brick exterior, at the corner of Sanford Avenue and Second Street, this spot has its pros and cons. Not only is there a dedicated music room in the back, there’s also a front and middle room with a bar in each. The music room is big in comparison to most other venues and it’s separate from the rest of the hustle and bustle of the bar crowd. The walls are adorned with images of music legends such as Bob Marley, Jimi Hendrix, Tupac Shakur and Johnny Cash. But the sound is not so good, though not for a lack of good equipment or personnel. The room is loud and boomy because it’s all solid floors and brick. Other than the main stage, there’s not a lot of soundproofing. The only thing that could help absorb all that sound is a full crowd and, even then, it’s questionable. There’s also a second stage in the front room for small ensembles and solo acoustic acts. “If people want to see bands in the back, they can pay” said bartender Christine Barrett. [If patrons don’t pay there’s] “Bands play up front” [and] “in the back.” Smaller festivals take place here at times. There are DJ, reggae and open mic nights, which add a little variety to spice up the week. Video games also litter this establishment for gamers. 202 South Sanford Avenue, Sanford www.drinkatwestend.com The Lazy Gator Bar at Black Hammock Fish Camp An exit off Florida State Road 417 leads to a windy country road that cuts through pastures and nature eventually opening to a compound of buildings made of block, wood and screen. Located on the southern shores of Lake Jesup in Oviedo, this fish camp offers activities ranging from airboat rides to a full-service restaurant to a live music venue named The Lazy Gator Bar, open for live music Friday through Sunday and the occasional Thursday. Partially open-air, this long and wide venue is reminiscent of one of those old juke-joints down by the river where the music was funky and the party raged all night. Well, it’s not that funky, but it sure has character.

Martin also mentioned a recent addition to the property. Land next to the camp is being developed into a park, mini golf course, butterfly garden, bird sanctuary and an ecological learning center. All complete with cottages and pavilions. 2356 Black Hammock Fish Camp Road, Oviedo www.theblackhammock.com Red Lion Pub This place is shaped like a small box, which might be a good thing. Afeeling of exclusivity and intimacy can be felt because of the size of this place. The wall on the left is covered with four serious-looking big, red dartboards complete with scorecards. Whoever’s playing on these things is into some darts, for sure. Not to be taken lightly. The Orlando Pub Dart League meets here every Monday. In addition to the Red Lion, many pubs around the area have teams that compete here on the regular. There’s no stage but instead a corner where musicians play, one pool table and a short bar. Music is not on the weekend but during the week. Also, an upright piano now resides outside the bar entitled “Everyone’s Piano” for anyone to use at any time feeling may arise. “Twisted Tuesday” features various local bands, a DJ and fire dancers in the parking lot later on. Owner and longtime bartender Rose Ryan, has ran the bar twenty three of the bar’s thirty year existence, said “I make [everyone] dinner….till it runs out. Usually around midnight.” The bar will celebrate patron birthdays as well. Rose said, “If it’s your birthday and we know about it, we put your name on the cake and post it on Facebook.” “Triple fret Thursday” is three hours and three singer/songwriters along with an open mic Friday. What lacks in weekend music is made up for in staff. The staff is friendly, polite and welcoming; conversational but not nosey, attentive yet reserved when necessary. 3784 Howell Branch Road, Winter Park | www.redlionpub.net

Photos by Eric Anderson

Cup and straw to prevent date rape

wo new products coming out later this year may help prevent date-rape. “Roughly half of all rapes are from consuming too much alcohol.” Deborah Barr, human sexuality professor of Seminole State College on the Sanford/ Lake Mary campus, said.

DrinkSavvy prototype cup courtesy of DrinkSavvyInc.com

In an attempt to reduce daterape, DrinkSavvy Inc. produced a cup and straw that have sensor strips on the inside to change color when the drink is spiked with a possible drug. Mike Abramson, founder of DrinkSavvy located in Boston, Mass., said the incidents involving drug-facilitated sexual assault are increasing around the world.

Editor’s Note

Wow, issue #2 is here already! Where is the time going? Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve are just around the corner. It seems like once fall arrives the rest of the year just zooms by in the blink of an eye. Fall’s full session final drop period is also quickly approaching. October 28 is your last chance to get out of a class without failing. Of course you won’t get your money back at this point, but hey, it’s better than lowering your GPA, right?

By George Rivera

Abramson had the idea to make the cup and straw when three of his close friends and himself became the victims of a colorless odorless drug slipped into drinks, according to documents obtained by The Seminole Scribe. However, professor Barr said she was concerned that people will lower their guards when drinking. Students at Seminole State College S/LM have mixed reactions regarding the cup and straw and how useful it will be. Erika Black, student at the S/LM campus said with a smile her friends would feel more comfortable with the cup and she would feel some comfort knowing her friends would have that safety net. But student Sarah Clodfelter said the products might be useful but said her friends “should know their limit.” For more information about DrinkSavvy or products scan the QR code linked to DrinkSavvyInc website.

Did you sign the PACT5 pledge in September? I did. PACT5 is a national movement to prevent sexual assault and rape on college campuses. Visit www.pact5.org to learn more. I will be covering the topic of rape in a later issue of The Seminole Scribe. Remember to always be aware of your surroundings and be proactive.

Since school started in August, I have seen at least three people smoking on campus all near the Public Safety office no less. For those who smoke, please abide by the new No Smoking policy on campus. It’s really frustrating for non-smokers to have to deal with smokers that feel they are above the law. Please be As you probably know, October is breast cancer awareness month. The Seminole County Sheriff’s office respectful of your peers and professors and follow the wrapped a police car bright pink in honor of this month. rules. If you see it, tweet it at #pinkpatrol to spread awareness I hope you enjoy this issue. The journalism team has about cancer. Maybe Seminole State College should worked hard to provide you with great articles about wrap one of the GEM cars? hard news as well as fun facts and profiles. The 2012 Annual Crime Report and Safety Guide is now available to view online at the college website for those interested in knowing what crimes occurred on campus last year. If you read my article about campus safety in issue one, then you will know crime can happen anywhere at anytime. Remember, “If you see something say something.”

October 2013 | 9

Have something to say? Don’t forget, letters to the editor are always welcome! Happy Halloween! Until next time,

Melissa B. Merkler | EIC | @melissabmerkler

Letter to the Editor: Have you ever noticed that the bathrooms in the E building have brightly-colored signs posted on the doors reserving them for faculty and staff? Are these facilities separate--but equal? The signs do not appear to be official Seminole State College signs, so it looks as if an individual or group made this decision unilaterally. Who will claim responsibility for thus excluding students and guests? Which members of our college community think that it is right to make such a distinction among adults? RuthAnne Johnson Instructional Support Specialist Academic Success Center L-0001, Sanford-Lake Mary Campus johnsonra@seminolestate.edu

10 | Seminole Scribe By Leyla Rad

The “other side” of campus

ith one large reflective building taking up most of the attention on the Sanford/ Lake Mary campus, some Seminole State College students may be unaware of another “great asset” on the other side. Along with the planetarium, the “other side” is home to Seminole State’s Adult High School and what some say is a “very vital part of part of the college.” “I don’t think I’ve ever been over there,” student Stephen Madera said chuckling as he pointed across the lake behind the Wayne Densch Partnership Center. “I actually didn’t even know there was such thing as an adult high school.” For students 16 years of age and older, the Adult High School offers the course work required as a public K-12 school and a standard high school diploma. Students are also required to take the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test® which is state administered test planning to increase student achievement by implementing higher standards. Last year, nearly 1,000 students decided to return from their “interrupted” high school experience and attend. That’s according to Frank Bongione, dean of the Adult High School. In the 2012-13 academic school year, there were 752 students enrolled at the Adult High School. “I think this just shows the size and the scope of the Adult High School,” he said. One of the reasons the Adult High School could be hard to differentiate from the college

is because similar rules govern both areas. The Adult High School students use the same identification card, are allowed to use all aspects of the campus, attend college events and dual enroll at the college. “There isn’t even a dress code, just like regular college students,” Dominique Abrahams, a secretary in the office at the Adult High School, said. “As long as they get good grades, we don’t have much say on what they do.” After receiving their high school diploma, many Adult High School graduates continue to Seminole State. In 2011, 789 Adult High School graduates attended the college. Also, to help integrate the high school with the college, a yearly event known as “Discover Seminole State” was designed for the Adult High School students to show students what the college has to offer. The entire Adult High School attends this event each spring. “We’re trying to introduce students to Seminole State College, what’s available,” Mr. Bongione said. “Look forward, plan ahead a little.” Students like Shameka Billings, a senior at the Adult High School, said she enjoys the activities at the Adult High

School that are separate from the college. “We have our own student council,” she said. “I’ve been participating in that since 2011. Only our students vote for that person every year.” In addition, a National Honors Society gives scholarships to high school students planning to attend college. Ms. Billings is also involved in the Adult High School’s work study program called “Student Aid” where a student can work at the office for pay. But, aside from those differences, Ms. Billings said the college and high school are a combined part of Seminole State. “Because anything you do over here reflects the college,” she said.

“I would pretty much say that, you know, we are a major part of the college, a very important part of the college.”

Skip a step with the CLEP By Sean Doty

hether it’s a science class, math class or even a foreign language class, there are just some subjects in school that students find to be a waste of time, energy and more importantly money. Some of these subjects however are mandatory in order to complete all the courses necessary to earn an associate’s and a bachelor’s degree. If only there was a way to earn the credit for taking a class without spending excessive amounts of money on books and tuition fees, students can test their way out of a course. Testing out is part of the College Level Examination Program or CLEP, a group of standardized tests offered at more than 1,000 colleges throughout the United States. According to the official College Board website (clep.collegeboard.org), the tests are designed to help students earn credit for courses that are deemed mandatory in their degree curriculum and are equivalent to taking AP classes in high school. Nearly 3,000 colleges and universities nationwide accept anywhere between three to 12 credit hours earned via CLEP. But some students might not know about being able to test out of a course. “I have never heard of CLEP before. What is it?” Joe Wallace, Seminole State student, asked. According to one Seminole State Testing Center employee, CLEP tests are by no means easy and are available for students already familiar with the subject or looking to save money. All CLEP examinations are $80, but Seminole State College charges an additional $15 registration fee per CLEP exam. There are 33 different examinations that cover five different subject areas, including core subjects such as Mathematics, English, and Science. “I’d rather spend $80 taking one test than $300 for a class that takes an entire semester,” Kers Baysa, Seminole State student, said.

Adult high school student, Shameka Billings.Photo by Melissa B. Merkler

According to a survey distributed by the College Board and taken by more than 4,000 students around the nation, 91 percent claimed that taking a CLEP test helped them in some way complete their degree program. Also, 70 percent said that taking a CLEP test instead of a class helped them finance tuition expenses and other college related fees. According to a survey distributed by the College Board and taken by more than 4,000 students around the CLEP continued on page 11

The First First Lady

ressed in Carolina blue, the color her husband dedicated to his school, Gerry Weldon, a petite woman, sits at her dining room table as she spilled out her memories. “Everyone knows her as the First Lady,” Chris Weldon, Mrs. Weldon’s 18-year-old grandson, said. “But I know her as Gram.” Born Gerry Draa in 1931, Mrs. Weldon grew up in a small South Florida town before moving to Gainesville and enrolling at the University of Florida and then transferring to Florida Tech University (FTU), which is now known as the University of Central Florida (UCF).

October 2013 | 11 by Christina Fleming CLEP continued from page 10

“All of the employees really enjoyed it because the Weldon’s were such giving people,” she said. Currently, her grandson Chris Weldon is living with Mrs. Weldon after moving from New Jersey to attend his grandfather’s college. “It had always been the plan for me to attend Seminole State,” Chris said. “And it’s really nice to be home in Florida.” Chris said that even though he barely sees his grandmother because of school and work, he is grateful that he could stay with her while he is here because she is so supportive. “She’s the best grandmother I could ask for, so it’s nice being here with her,” Chris said.

While living in Gainesville in 1949, the Mrs. Weldon said it has future Mrs. been a pleasure having Weldon Chris stay with her and attended a she loves knowing all local Methodist three of her children and Recognizing the first lady: Mrs. Gerry Weldon stands at Convocation recently on the Sanford/ most of her grandchildren church where Lake Mary campus to be recognized for her contributions to Seminole State College. All of Earl Weldon, have attended Seminole the faculty members at the table including Mrs. Weldon have been with Seminole State for Ph.D., was a State. more than 30 years. Photo courtesy of Seminole State College member. They began dating, married two years later and then had three In addition to teaching at Idyllwilde Elementary in children: Eileen, Janice and Steven. Sanford for more than 21 years, Mrs. Weldon continues to volunteer and contributes graphic design and print “I met Earl and he made me feel like I was at a home away work for Kappa Delta Gamma and the Philanthropic from home,” she said. Educational Organization. A few years later, Seminole State College appointed Dr. Weldon as President and the couple moved to Sanford before the school officially opened in 1965. At first, Mrs. Weldon said the school needed a staff and a student body but, with no school built, the only place to hold interviews was her living room. This made for a crowded lifestyle, she said, but she was “grateful” for meeting a variety of people who contributed to the school. Nonetheless, Mrs. Weldon was known for opening her doors to the faculty members at Seminole State. Every year the Weldon’s would have a “back to school kickoff party” at their home in Sanford, a close friend of Mrs. Weldon’s, Mrs. Ann Barkley, said.

“Oh, Gerry is amazing with design work and technology, but her specialty is her ability to tell stories,” Mrs. Barkley said laughing. “Last Halloween, a year ago, Gerry disappeared without anyone noticing and came back dressed as a witch. We were all laughing hysterically and Gerry told one of her amazing witch stories while she was cutting out designs she had created.” Teaching is a passion for Mrs. Weldon, she said, and after 21 years she still stays in touch with some of her students. “And I love it,” she said. “It really reminds you of who you are.”

nation, 91 percent claimed that taking a CLEP test helped them in some way complete their degree program. Also, 70 percent said that taking a CLEP test instead of a class helped them finance tuition expenses and other college related fees. For those seeking to CLEP out of a course, it is highly recommended by Seminole State counselors and testing advisers to take advantage of all possible resources available in order to study for these exams. Students can purchase an official CLEP Study Guide, which is just as thick as a textbook and designed to help all future CLEP takers prepare for upcoming tests. Other testing and subject related resources can be found within Seminole State’s Library. Just because someone has general knowledge of the subject, it doesn’t mean that they shouldn’t brush up and prepare before taking the exam. That would be like having an A in one class for most of the year and not preparing for the final exam at the end of the semester. Many may be wondering if it’s worth the effort to “CLEP out” of a course. Well consider this; for those who are not the greatest of test takers, CLEP may not be the best option. But for students who feel as though they know enough about a certain subject, why spend hundreds of dollars on tuition and textbooks on a course that lasts an entire semester when they can spend around $100 doing an exam that will help earn the same amount of credits for the course itself and takes less than two hours to complete? CLEP exams can be taken at the Testing Center of any Seminole State College campus during scheduled hours. Valid ID is required in order to take a CLEP exam in the Testing Center. More information is available at all of the Testing Centers, telephone (407) 708-2020 and on Seminole State’s website (www.seminolestate.edu/ testing).

Christian study group to challenge students in faith

12 | Seminole Scribe

By Carissa May

A solution for students waiting for a refund

By Carissa May

nstead of waiting for a refund check to buy books and supplies now students may request a book voucher to use financial aid after the deadline.

reason for needing something from the bookstore before they can be granted a voucher because these forms “will only be given on a very, very limited basis,” Ms. Aghani said.

But students must have a valid reason.

If a student asks for a book voucher for books or supplies after the add/drop period, Ms. Afghani said, “I will certainly ask them why they didn’t buy them in the window of opportunity that they had.”

The voucher existed at Seminole State College for years, according to Carmen Afghani, director of Student Financial Resources at the college. However, most students said they did not know about the existence of a book voucher that could be used to get supplies while waiting for the refund check after the add/drop period, or the deadline for financial aid.

“You really don’t have to be a Christian to come.” – Miguel Flores Study group leader Wilfredo Rosado reads aloud from the Bible as his fellow group members read along

or students wanting to discuss the Bible without censoring it, a small study group of Christians at Seminole State College welcomes any student to join. That’s according to group leader Wilfredo Rosado. “Even if you don’t know God, or if you’re not Christian,” he said, “I encourage anyone, if they’re interested or curious, to just come along and we can all share in this.” Although the study group started a year and a half ago, the group remained small though it hopes to grow, according to Sarah Subrahmanyam, one of the original group members. This fall semester, the group plans to read through one book of the Bible, while bringing up different opinions on Christian topics and relating them to the reading. Mr. Rosado said the group doesn’t shy away from any theme.

“If we don’t challenge ourselves and our beliefs, then how can we grow in knowledge, wisdom and spiritual maturity?” he asked. Sometimes, Mr. Rosado said, the group discusses controversial topics such as baptism of the Holy Spirit and being drunk in the Spirit, adding that his hope is to encourage other Christian students to explore controversial subjects within the faith, no matter the controversy. “Just because there is controversy and difference in belief for certain topics, it doesn’t mean that we should put our hands over it and pretend it’s not there,” Mr. Rosado said. Other members of the study group welcomed the idea of controversial topics. “I love controversy,” group member Miguel Flores said. “But so far it hasn’t been too controversial; we’ve been able to respectfully disagree or agree on different things.” Group member Lydia Knowles agreed that, although there are different opinions, most of the students seemed to “agree on the most important stuff.” Professor Bassem Chaaban, although not a part of the Christian study group, teaches World Religions at Seminole State and said it is common to have different opinions within religious faiths.

Sarah Subrahmanyam discusses what the group read from the Bible

However, students can apply for this book voucher by filling out a form in the Student Financial Resources office, but these forms will only be given to students who have a “valid” reason for needing them. Some students like Jesse Sentouktsi said problems with financial aid have happened in the past. For Mr. Sentouktsi, after the deadline for financial aid passed last semester, he said he had to wait “a month and a half,” for his refund check. “I needed printing paper to make some photo prints and I didn’t have any money,” he said. “I didn’t have the money to get the supplies, so it was very costly to my grade in the class and I felt like I was much behind in my class because of that.” Students, especially those taking visual art classes, often need supplies during the time in between the financial aid deadline and when refund checks are received. Because of this, some students were forced to fail or pay out of pocket going elsewhere for books and supplies. A book voucher could be the solution for students need something from the bookstore before the refund check arrived. With a book voucher, students can charge money to an account before the arrival of the refund check, Ms. Afghani said. The book voucher can also be used on necessary supplies, she said, such as those required for visual art classes. But, of course, students must have a justified

Book vouchers require extra work and time for Student Financial Resources staff often, Ms. Afghani said, adding that if a student needed something from the bookstore that was immediately required for a class then they could be accommodated. Like most students, Mr. Sentouktsi said he did not know about the book voucher. “I think it’ll be a lot easier for some students to get any supplies that they may need,” he said after learning about the book voucher, adding that “it creates a peace of mind.” Lydia Knowles, a student taking multiple art classes, also said she did not know about the book voucher but, so far, she did not experience any problems needing supplies between the financial aid deadline and the arrival of the refund check. But, she said, if she “were ever in that predicament,” she would find the book voucher helpful. Students: find the book voucher on four campuses.

•

Sanford/Lake Mary: Student Financial Resources in the Weldon building next to the Cashiers - request a book voucher from any one of the staff members Altamonte Springs and Oviedo: Students can speak to a Student Success Specialist at the front counter Heathrow: Students can speak to a Student Success Specialist at the information counter

“Even when we talk about when we label groups −like someone’s Christian, someone’s Jewish, someone’s Muslim or Buddhist −it doesn’t mean all people who are a part of that community believe the same thing,” Professor Chaaban said. “There are common core values, but they’ll also interpret them different ways.” Regardless of faith the group is open to students of all religions, even those who are non-religious. “They should come if they believe in God or not, if they think He’s real or not, just come with an open heart and open mind,” group member Jovanny Varela said.

The study group meets on Monday and Wednesday on the Altamonte Springs campus at 2 p.m., and on Tuesday and Thursday on the Sanford/Lake Mary campus at 1 p.m. Wilfredo Rosado reads from the Bible

Student Financial Resources located next to Cashiers window on Sanford/Lake Mary campus

Custodian’s smile can’t stop, won’t stop

eginning at 5 a.m., just as he has since the beginning in 1978, Steve Addison starts his day with a quick breakfast with his mother, Edna, who makes sure Steve gets to work on time, just as she has for the more than 30 years since her son started his job at the then Seminole Community College.

“Back then it was not as large of a campus as it is now,” Steve said on a recent morning dressed in gray pants and a tan shirt, a Seminole State College patch on the left upper pocket and a white tag embroidered with Steve on the right. He walks among students at the Seminole State College Sanford/Lake Mary campus pushing a gray cart, patroling the grounds of the campus on the hunt looking for anything that does not belong. Steve, who is known for smiling to students or faculty and waving with a hearty, “Hello,” has seen the campus grow the most being employed with the college longer than most of the students have been alive. “None of the other buildings by the auto shop were here at the time,” he said. “It was all woods, and I only had to clean two to three buildings; now I have to clean three to four buildings, plus the outside.” Steve said his favorite part of the job is talking to people “and my bosses are amazing” and Gary Snyder, Facility Plant manager who has supervised Mr. Addison for the last 11 years described him as one of the longest working custodians on staff. “His interaction with other staff and students is amazing;” Mr. Snyder said. “Everyone knows Steve.” He described how Steve shows up to the office and says, “hey, boss is everything good?” Mr. Snyder said Steve is a pleasure to have as an employee.” Recently on Sanford/Lake Mary campus a group of students shouted “Hello” to Steve while walking past and Steve gave a wave, a smile and returned the “Hello.”

Making the world a little GREENER

ften Professor Linda Berlin seen is making the world greener one person at rummaging a time. through the garbage cans on campus looking for recyclable plastic bottles and aluminum cans to cash in for her retirement, Professor Linda Berlin leads by example to protect the environment. “I’m really serious about recycling,” she said, calling herself an “old hippie,” adding “we’ve only got one planet.”

By Eric Anderson

October 2013 | 13

After student Jackson Riley described Steve as “one of the hardest, if not the hardest working custodian on campus.” However, following a recent incident, in which student Michael Labry said he observed three young female students walking by and throwing chips at Steve’s feet, Mr. Labry said he was upset. “Steve cares about everyone and ensuring that the campus is clean,” Mr. Labry said. Outside of work Steve said he enjoys shopping, using computers and is an active member of the Steve Addison on a recent workday at the Seminole State Sanford/Lake Mary campus. New Mt. Calvary Baptist Photo by Eric Anderson church in Sanford. Following his retirement from Seminole State, Steve would like to transform his hobby of creating greeting cards into a new career.

By Ashley Young

In her pursuit to protect the planet, Professor Berlin said she was upset about the lack of recycling bins on the Sanford/Lake Mary campus in 2003, so she offered the idea. After nine years of campaigning for the bins, the college began to supply them just last year. Still, Professor Berlin said the college could do more to be green. At Valencia College, where she also works, Professor Berlin said recycling bins for plastic, aluminum cans and paper are available. According to thepaperlifecycle.org, paper makes up the largest material in landfills. At Valencia, every classroom is equipped with a paper bin and the hallways are abundant with aluminum bins, plastic bins and paper bins, she said. Not only does it help the environment but it also cuts down the work for the cleaning people who have to sort through the materials. Seminole State College student Bridget Henry said having paper recycling would help the school reduce waste and agreed with the idea for installing paper bins. In addition to adding paper recycling at Seminole State, Professor Berlin said she believes the school could harness solar

power from the sun’s rays to reduce its carbon footprint and provide clean energy. The school has large space atop its buildings that could provide the home for the solar panels, she added. According to the Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory, solar powered systems eliminate 87 to 97 percent of the toxic pollutants made by coal, oil or gas. “It would save the school money, too,” Professor Berlin said. Instead of not recycling, find the green bins located around campus. The University of Central Florida recently installed solar panels Photos by Eric Anderson around its campus, which reduced its consumption of natural gas by 30 percent, according to UCF facility and safety website. Seminole State College student Peter Simon said Seminole State should follow in UCF’s footsteps. Although these installments might seem costly and timely, students should rally behind these ideas, Professor Berlin said. “They’re the future generations. Their generation is going to have to figure out where do you put the extra trash,” she said, adding, “No one wants a landfill in their back yard.”

Raider fastpitch softball poised for success. Wait... softball at Seminole State? 14 | Seminole Scribe

By Joey Metych

The Seminole State women’s softball team walks around campus each day in plain clothes just like every other student. The next Jennie Finch or Lisa Fernandez could be sitting in the classroom or in line at Nature’s Table at this very moment.

However, identifying the team might not be the only difficulty. Katia Allen, 29, said during her enrollment that she’s been unaware of the women’s softball team.

Student Lawren Broussard, 31, said she knew about sports at Seminole State but could not cite which ones are offered. Regardless, Broussard said she has no interest in attending any type of sporting event at the college in the future because of her hectic schedule. “I have other priorities in life. I work, I’m a fulltime student; I’m always a mom and a wife,” Broussard said.

Sophomore softball player Haley Browne, 19, said student awareness toward sports is slim to none.

Freshman Pitcher Stephanie Adkins warming up her arm. Photos by Joey Metych

“Some of them [the students] are like, ‘We have sports?’” Browne said. In fact, the women’s fastpitch softball team at Seminole State was established in 1995 under current head coach Courtney Miller. While coach Miller has managed a team that has qualified for the Florida College System Activities Association (FCSAA) state tournament every year since conference expansion, along with a team GPA of at least 3.0 each season during her tenure, the student support lately has not been there due to a lack of awareness or indifference.

“This team is capable of 40 wins,” Miller said, setting the bar high for her 2014 squad that is currently in preseason play. Sophomore Haley Browne participates in a bunting drill. Runs might be hard to come by this season.

Sophomore Stefanie “Skip” Williams, 21, is a full-time student as well as a member of the lady Raider softball team. “Skip” said her biggest challenge playing a sport at the college level is balancing school along with softball. “You come home from practice and you study, then you go to bed. You don’t have time to do anything else,” Williams said.

Sophomore Stefanie Williams rounding the bases.

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Still, even more surprising then Seminole State having a softball team is that this hardworking group of girls is good, coach Miller said.

While regular season wins are nice, coach Miller said that the lady Raiders have higher aspirations. “Our number one goal is to get back to the state tournament,” Miller said. “You can’t go any further unless you get there.”

The 2014 Seminole State women’s fastpitch softball team begins regular season play on Saturday, February 1, 2014 with the Juco Season Kick-Off Tournament in Clearwater.

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