The Current Issue 6

The Official Student Newspaper of Eckerd College

Vol. XXIV

February 5, 2010

Teeth-whitening woes

The cons outweigh the pros of the popular fad

News & Features — Page 4

St. Petersburg, Florida

Issue 6

A Marine’s time in Iraq

Ah-choo! Spring is in the air

Reflections on time in the war zone

Home remedies to fight off springtime allergies

Viewpoints — Page 5

Arts & Entertainment — Page 10

news & features

Executive Board Managing Editor Meagan Bemis thecurrent@eckerd.edu Editor-in-Chief Petra Stevenson Copy Editor Emily Krumm Director of Finance Samantha Salfity Director of Advertising Caitlin Gerry Asst. Advertising Abby Gestl currentads@eckerd.edu

After college, it’s called alcoholism

Going shot for shot with a former binge drinker

Faculty Adviser Tracy Crow

Editorial Board News Editor Laurel Ormiston currentnews@eckerd.edu Entertainment Editor Francie Devine currententertainment@eckerd.edu Viewpoints Editor Catee Baugh currentviews@eckerd.edu Photography Editors Shawn Craine Erin Linebarger Palmer Suk Sports Editor Max Martinez currentsports@eckerd.edu Sports Photographer Doug Thayer

Staff Writers Jaclyn New Jeralyn Darling Johnny Jones Sarah Malhotra Sarah Yost Will Creager Abby Gestl Shelby Howell Kasey Kilinski

Contributing Writers Maren Auxier Brian Arbeiter Shelby Walker Kirsten Sengstacker

• Feb. 5, 2010 • • Vol. XXIV Iss. 6 • 2

Friday, February 5, 2010

By Shelby Walker Contributing Writer Before Algie Hendrieth awoke in his closet naked, or walked home from a downtown club after midnight, or vomited in the night club elevator, or even before he lost his friends in the crowd – he had a drink. And before that drink he had a few more. Hendrieth, a 20-yearold student at a Florida university, was a binge drinker.

“Without a doubt,” Hendrieth said, reflecting on his drinking habits, “I drank like a fish.” Although his honesty about his old drinking problem may be peculiar, his past is not. A study of the Harvard School of Public Health of 119 college campuses shows that two out of five college students drink five drinks in a row at least once every two weeks.

Still, his situation may have been much worse. “I would normally have 10-15 drinks a night, at least twice a week. . . At the time, I didn’t consider myself a binge drinker.”

At those numbers, that’s exactly what he came to be. Binge drinking is the consumption of about four drinks in a two-hour period for males and about three drinks in a two-hour period for females. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 90 percent of the alcohol consumed by those under 21 in the United States is in the form of binge drinking. At the peak of his drinking, Hendrieth was 19 and 20 years old. “It was actually when I turned 21 that I decided to cut back on my drinking.”

When Hendrieth was a freshman in college, like most, he often drank in the accompaniment of friends on the weekends. Over time, he began

to recognize his higher tolerance for alcohol. “I absolutely used to push myself to the limit. I would push myself to the point where I know I shouldn’t drink anymore, but a few times I passed that threshold.”

Hendrieth shared the story of another night he may have passed that threshold. “I was staying at a friend’s house during spring break because we were going to the beach the next morning. We were playing a drinking game, and I don’t remember the object of the game, but I definitely lost. I ended up stripped down to my boxers and socks because I refused to take off anything else. I fell asleep on the sofa, and probably due to sleeping in the cold and slight alcohol poisoning, I woke up sick and had a cold for about two to three weeks after.”

Suite101.com reports some reasons a college student may decide to binge drink: many students feel that binge drinking is the ultimate release from responsibility; they enjoy the sensation of being drunk; drinking is an accepted culture on most college campuses; some perceive binge drinking as a rite of passage.

A couple of those reasons hit home with Hendrieth. Drinking was certainly an accepted culture among his college buddies. “I never felt pressure from friends to drink, but I was always around people who loved to drink themselves. If you weren’t drinking, they would always wonder what was wrong with you,” he said.

Hendrieth also admits that purging your liquor after a long night was frowned upon in his group. “I drank to impress others around me... being able to hold your liquor was a bragging right.”

As opposed to the reasons college

courtesy of Wikicommons students may be influenced to binge drink, the Harvard study found that a higher percentage of binge drinkers than non-binge drinkers reported having experienced alcohol-related problems since the beginning of the school year.

Frequent binge drinkers were as much as 21 times more likely than non-binge drinkers to have missed class, fallen behind on school work, damaged property, been hurt or injured, engaged in unplanned sexual activity, not used protection while having sex, gotten in trouble with campus police, and driven a car after drinking.

“There are times I don’t remember driving home,” Hendrieth said, recalling the mornings after a night of drinking with friends. Though today, his drinking days are way behind him. “My New Year’s resolution for this year was to cut back on alcohol and energy drinks totally.” His goal to leave the bottle alone for good is almost a success. “I did share a Mike’s Hard Lemonade with my girlfriend one night when we were out of town visiting friends,” he said.

Hendrieth, proud of giving up on alcohol, encourages others who are in a similar situation to do the same.

“I can give advice, but no one stops drinking until they’re ready, which is a sad story. But if I had to say something [to a binge drinker] I would say, ‘stop.’

If you can see the damage that you’re doing and the danger you’re putting yourself and others in, you’d probably take a second look and say ‘wow, that was dumb.’”

If you are a binge drinker and would like help, contact the National Drug and Alcohol Treatment Referral Routing Service at their toll-free number 1800-662-HELP. You can also contact Health Educator Whitney Wall at wallwa@eckerd.edu.

news & features

Students sound off on EC honor code

By Petra Stevenson Editor-in-Chief Every Autumn Term, hundreds of Eckerd freshmen gather outside Fox Hall to coat their hands in brightly colored paint. They shuffle through crowds of their peers to a long table and press their palms onto an enormous sheet of white butcher paper, signing their names beneath their mark. By doing so they swear to abide by the college’s honor code. They pledge not to lie, cheat, or steal nor to tolerate these behaviors in others.

So do Eckerd students cheat?

Studies show that colleges and universities with honor codes have significantly lower rates of cheating than those with no such systems. A 2007 survey by Donald McCabe of Rutgers University reported that 68 percent of students admit to cheating at least once while pursuing their undergraduate degrees. But McCabe’s research, which spans more than a decade, also shows that these numbers are much lower at colleges with honor codes in place. Cheating is also more common at large universities, and reported more frequently by males than by females.

How does Eckerd compare?

In an anonymous survey of 97 students across 29 majors, only 18 percent admitted to having ever cheated or plagiarized during their academic careers at the college. Nine percent were “unsure” if they had engaged in such behavior. Most of these students said that they had glanced at the test or quiz of another student. A few wrote that they failed to properly cite a reference, and several said that they had shared answers to a take-home exam or assignment. Only one reported using an online paper service.

Outside the survey, one senior described himself as an “accomplished master cheater,” attributing his better grades to his ability to cheat and “B.S.” on projects and tests. He explained how he routinely takes advantage of the college’s disability support services (DSS),

once smuggling a textbook into his personal exam room by hiding it in his pants. “I am not insulted by the honor code,” he said, “but it has no value to me because I don’t see it as my promise. I sign it because I have to.” He noted that most of his teachers would not accept assignments that were not pledged. “I fear what I will do

ronmental studies major described how she once noticed a fellow test-taker with a piece of paper sticking out the sleeve of his jacket. “Every time he was done peeking at it,” she wrote, “he would ‘scratch’ his neck with the opposite hand and pull it back up his sleeve somehow.”

Those surveyed thought poor

ceptable.

“Some people are just lazy,” an international business major added.

Views on the honor code itself were divided. When asked whether they believed the honor code effectively promoted academic honesty, 32 percent of respondents agreed, 33 percent disagreed, and 35 percent

courtesy of Eckerd.edu

in the real world and how I will apply myself to my major,” he added.

While few survey participants self-reported academic dishonesty, more than half have witnessed other students cheating. “Anything you can imagine students cheating on, I have seen it or heard about it,” wrote one international business major. Respondents listed all sorts of cheating schemes, describing how they saw fellow students flipping through note cards under desks during midterms, writing answers on their hands and shuffling through ipods and cell phones while taking tests. Others knew of students turning in the same paper for multiple classes, studying a test from a previous semester, or making up entire works cited pages. An envi-

time management and pressure to get good grades were the primary motivators. One senior, who admitted to cheating on both exams and papers, explained that cheaters who don’t get caught have an unfair advantage over their more honest peers. “If you sign it [pledge an assignment] and get a lower grade without cheating, and someone else signs it and cheats and gets a higher grade, human nature will make you do the same thing next time,” he said.

Other factors included difficult course material, lack of time to study, and the ease of cheating and not getting caught.

Only 14 percent of respondents thought that students would be dishonest because cheating and/or plagiarism are not perceived as being wrong or unac-

were unsure.

“Enough people take it seriously,” an American studies major said of the pledge. An interdisciplinary arts major agreed. “I feel like the ‘Pledging’ system works well,” she wrote. “People are held to a higher standard when they’re required to say in writing that they did not cheat or plagiarize.”

Other students brought up issues of consistency among professors. “The code is effective in that it makes students aware that professors don’t tolerate plagiarism or open cheating on exams,” a marine science major noted. “The fact that each professor values and applies it differently creates a situation in which students stop taking it seriously.”

An undeclared freshman

wrote, “If people are going to cheat, they’re going to cheat whether their handprint is on a giant poster or not.”

“When the pressure is on, honor goes out the window,” said one senior, who admitted to writing equations on the inside cover of a calculator.

A literature major had a different take. “The honor code is insulting,” she said. “Frankly, it implies students have a basic lack of self-discipline. There is no ‘honor code’ in post-undergraduate life, just prison…If you want people to not cheat, create better citizens. Teach morals and law so we don’t go out there blindsided in the real world.”

Although what today is known as the Eckerd honor code is less than five years old, it reestablishes an original code instituted in the early days of the college, according to Dean of Students James Annarelli.

“It [the code] was developed as a brief and explicit honor code that would be always related to the shared commitment, but that also would be highlighted as something that would stand alone,” Annarelli said. “We did not expect that instituting an honor code and creating formal traditions around it would, in effect, be the answer,” Annarelli added, explaining that the development of a culture of honor was an incremental process. “What we were really after was the manifestation of culture of honor, and an ethos of honor.”

The establishment of an honor council including students is currently being developed and will be proposed to faculty and student leadership. The council would integrate peer judgment into the process of evaluating incidents of alleged academic dishonesty. “An honor code facilitated by faculty and administrators alone is not the richest type of honor code,” Annarelli said, explaining the important role of students in building a college culture that values honor. “There is no value more important in an academic community than the value of academic honesty,” he added.

Friday, February 5, 2010

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news & features

News briefs Film studies awarded National Endowment The National Endowment for the Humanities has awarded Eckerd College a grant of $300,000 to aid in the establishment of an endowed fellowship in Film Studies. Once the professorship is fully funded, the professor receiving the grant will be able to offer a wider course selection for the Film Studies major.

“An expanded film program will help to attract new students to Humanities courses, will broaden the range of filmrelated General Education electives, and will provide additional intellectual and cultural opportunities for students and interested members of the local community,” said Donald R. Eastman III, President of Eckerd College. “The addition of a Film Studies professorship is an exciting next step in strengthening the Humanities at Eckerd, and Trustee Nielsen’s keen understanding of our needs in this area, his personal investment in the program and the NEH grant will combine to make this possible.” The professorship will be called the Christian Nielson Endowed Professorship in Film Studies, named in honor of the late brother of Trustee Helmar Nielson.

EC mourns loss of valued community member Academy of Senior Professionals at Eckerd College (ASPEC) member Reverend William Fred Lamar passed away Jan. 13. The former Chaplain of the U.S. Army is remembered for outstanding community involvement in many fields, but particularly for his contributions to ASPEC’s Religions and Faith Interest group. He moved to Florida specifically to join Eckerd’s continuing education program, where he was involved from 1998 until his passing.

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Friday, February 5, 2010

The woes of teeth whitening

How bright is too bright?

By Brian Arbeiter Contributing Writer A smile can brighten the darkest day. At least that is the consensus of many Americans who whiten their teeth in order to light up a room or make a brighter first impression.

Millions striving for whiter pearls use teeth whitening products. Even though the technology has existed for years, teeth whitening is no longer the exception. Instead, it has become the rule in the world of cosmetics.

Mara Waldruff, an Eckerd College senior, is part of this cultural phenomenon. “I like whitening my teeth because I think it makes me look more attractive.” Jessica Vartanian, another Eckerd senior, is also an enthusiastic supporter. “I feel more confident when I have a whiter smile.” Indeed, Vartanian and Waldruff are not the only ones who shelve out money for whitening products. According to Laurel Naverson of the New York Times, an estimated $2 billion dollars was spent on teeth whitening products in 2004.

Interestingly, not all of that money spent on the quest for perfect whites comes from women. Seniors Charles Gilbert and Joseph Conrad both used it this past summer. “I like it.

It works. It actually makes my teeth look whiter,” said Gilbert. In a recent poll of 100 Eckerd College students who use teeth whitening products, 35 percent of the men used a teeth whitening product.

There are millions of people supporting teeth whitening practices, but there are also those against the whitening of teeth. Evan Playle, an Eckerd College senior, is one of

them. “I think it is an unreasonable standard perpetuated by the American aesthetic.”

Many others have more realistic reasons for not whitening their teeth.

Several of the over-the-counter kits have mixed results. Sometimes blotchy spots occur. And other times the application of strips and gels makes no difference in teeth color.

According to the American Dentistry Association, the effectiveness of these products depends on the color of the original enamel. Also, your teeth may be stained so bad that there might be no chance of making them perfectly white.

Carly Chaapel, who has used the mouth guard method of teeth whitening in the past, reported that it was discoloring her teeth and was not helping much. “It made them a little blotchy.” Afterwards, however, she reported that she might try a different method in the future. “Of course, I want to have whiter teeth!”

There are a few risks involved with teeth whitening. Many online customer reviews claim that teeth may become ultra-sensitive after continuous use of certain over-the-counter products. In addition to this, enamel may wear away and cause certain teeth to become brittle. Some drastically negative effects of teeth whitening include a bluish clear discoloration, which signifies loss of enamel.

Also, some teeth may become so brittle that they begin to chip away.

Cristin Calomiris, an Eckerd College 2008 alum, continues to use teeth whitening products, despite knowing their negative side effects.

“I know that there are negative effects of teeth whitening, but I have not been affected yet. If I do, I will stop. As of now it just makes my teeth look whiter and cleaner, which I think makes me look more attractive.”

This is why several dentistry organizations report that it is imperative to follow either a dentist’s instructions or the instructions located on the back of teeth whitening kit.

Those who do not are not going to have desirable results. Overall, however, teeth whitening is generally a safe practice. Many people enjoy the confidence that their brighter smile brings them. “It attracts the ladies,” says Conrad.

For those who are interested, there are several methods available ranging in different prices and availability.

The most popular method is the mouth guard-gel method. This entails putting gel inside a plastic mouth guard and then wearing that nightly for one or two weeks. Mouth guard kits can be bought over-the-counter or at your dentist’s office.

The second most popular method is teeth whitening strips. This method is the easiest to use, reliable, and cheap. Strips can be bought at any pharmacy or Wal-Mart.

Finally, the most expensive, but most reliable system is the light-activated system. This can be done at your dentist office. It is also a novelty service offered at some airports and malls.

EDITORIAL

viewpoints

A Marine’s journey from Iraq

By Maren Auxier Contributing Writer

normally how we did it, we’d occupy a city,” then adds, sarcastically, “which was always fun, and there would be a David Greenman of Traverse City, Mich., is one curfew for the people living there. And of thousands who have served in the U.S. military we had to enforce the curfew because since the beginning of the Iraq war in March 2003. we never knew what was going on [with At 23, Greenman served as a rifleman team leader the local people]. They could be planting for almost three months in al Ambar Providence in guns, it was all guessing games. We ran Iraq, from Oct. 12 through Dec. 31, 2005. Overall, after some people after curfew and they he says he is satisfied with the time he spent in the ended up being terrorists trying to plant guns and mines.” service of his country.

But the Marines were still careful and “It was really a wakeup call,” he explains. “Americans aren’t brought up to kill people. You know, standard tried to avoid harming Iraqi citizens people don’t go around murkin’ each other. You without putting their own lives at can’t think like a normal person. We have a job and risk. “One night there was this guy photo by Zach Zdroik the first thing you do is dehumanize the bad guys. It wandering around past curfew, and Greenman (right) with an Australian soldier at a huge makes it easier to pull the trigger—especially when it was obvious that he was mentally training area outside Brisden after time in Iraq. you see your buddy ill. We didn’t hurt or killed.”

“Americans aren’t brought up to beat him up time to fully analyze the situation, and that is just a Greenman says or anything, I kill people.

You know, standard he found it difficult mean he didn’t know what fact of war.

The American “bubble” got to him a bit after to go back to school people don’t go around murkin’ he was doing. But you’re returning home from Iraq. “Before I went in, people after completing his never sure,” he says. each other.

You can’t think like service as a Marine.

Despite his laid-back were having these big ass peace rallies. And before He is just finishing a normal person. We have a explanations of his wartime that the majority of the country was like, I don’t give up his first year experiences, Greenman a s--- who did it, I just want somebody to pay. Then job and the first thing you do at Northwestern makes sure not to glamorize when I came back it was different. It wasn’t nothing Michigan College, is dehumanize the bad guys. It his time there. “It’s probably like ’Nam, I mean people weren’t spitting on me, but studying to become something you don’t want some people try to pick a fight with me. I really try makes it easier to pull the trigger a nurse. to experience,” he says. “I not to let that s--- get to me. But the service makes handle it. I mean, you thought your parents were Ask him why he —especially when you see your mean, Americans live in this you joined the Marines, strict, but that’s nothing like how it is in the service.” big ass bubble, but going and he explains, buddy hurt or killed.”

He makes sure to tell me that they don’t brainwash outside of America, beyond “Packin’ up and the tourist spots, the world the troops, though, which people will say. Marines leavin’ I thought have to be tough.

— David Greenman, former U.S. is a violent place.” He says about ten years Greenman adds, “No matter what people say he’s specifically referring Marine to genocide in Africa, drug about Bush, he did say that the war would be long, down the road, when my kids could cartels and terrorists. expensive, and it would cost American lives. And be there fighting.

“People aren’t doing s-- those are the facts.”

That’s why I went there -- I don’t want my kids to - about it. Americans try to shield themselves from Greenman admits suffering from Post Traumatic go through it. I can’t imagine what my mom must’ve the violence, and once you get out there, until you Stress Syndrome (PTSD) after returning to the felt when I left, but I made it back and I’m all right.” see somebody look you right in the eye and you know States. It is difficult to think that a person would Though he speaks casually with me about his time in they want to kill you… Americans want to stay safe not suffer from some sort of PTSD after engaging in Iraq, his words confirm the horrors of war that affects warfare. “I’m not the same person,” he says. “I mean, in the bubble.” everyone, and the importance of doing what we have Greenman also says that this sensitivity to violence my thinking process is the same, but my memories to now to end the fighting as soon as possible. is detrimental to the success of war. “You want your are different. A lot of other guys saw a lot more than U.S. citizens are given varying accounts of what soldiers and Marines to be out there willing to fight me. But you gotta learn to live with it. Some guys troops do, and did, in Iraq. Greenman gives a basic and kill people, and it’s not always black and white.” take pills, some guys do something stupid, but you rundown. “I can’t vouch for the Army,” he says, “but When it comes to life and death, there is not always either get help or make it worse.”

Friday, February 5, 2010

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viewpoints EDITORIAL

Herbal supplements under scrutiny:

Are they providing the nutrition you need or just inducing harmful side effects?

By Meagan Bemis Managing Editor Over the course of my adult life, I have fallen victim to my fair share of hoaxes.

Big Foot sightings turned costume-in-a-freezer, the Taco Bell diet, even mayonnaise in your hair to keep it healthy. Maybe hoax is too strong a word; let’s go with urban legend. However, I never thought the day would come when the value of vitamin supplements would be questioned.

I recently stumbled upon an article from Slate.com that questioned the effectiveness of vitamin and mineral supplements. Basically, we are in a bit of a fix when it comes to trying to be a healthy population. One week carbs are good for you, the next week soy products are only recommended for men, and week after that a vegetarian diet can kill you. So where do we fit in with all of these diet do’s and don’ts?

Most of us, as growing individuals trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle, tend to lean toward vitamins to fulfill the missing links in our diet. However, it seems that not only might vitamins be completely useless for the body, but they could also cause some huge medical risks when used in combination with other prescription and non-prescription drugs, according to Slate.com.

Multivitamins seem to have the least amount of effect on the body. As cited in Slate.com’s article, a study published in Archives of Internal Medicine of “160,000 post-menopausal women found that all-in-one pills did not prevent cancer, heart attacks or strokes and did not reduce overall mortality.” Similarly, individual supplements (such as vitamin B6, niacin, calcium etc.) have shown little impact on a healthy body as well. A group of scientists concluded in 2006 that the studies showed no conclusive evidence that vitamins had any side effects beneficial to health, according to Slate.com.

Apparently, antioxidants have an even more disturbing truth to them; in a study of more than 232,000, scientists found that not only do antioxidants (such as vitamins A, C, E, selenium and beta carotene, among others) fail to lower the risk of heart disease, but they actually increase a risk of death, according to Slate.com. Although the study is unclear as to how or why antioxidants contribute to an increased risk, it is still a disturbing thought.

Even though these studies seem to prove that vitamins, minerals and antioxidants are actually detrimental to bodily health, the consumption of them is actually rising in the U.S, and doctors continue to recommend daily supplements to patients. Personally, I am a firm believer in the sugar-pill-effect. If something says it works, is recommended by a professional, you believe it works, then gollygee, it works!

Like I said before, the studies that prevail today could be completely discredited tomorrow. Look at the myths surrounding coffee, red meat, soy and tofu

courtesy of Wikicommons

products and carbs. And, also remember that “scientific studies” are never conclusive, meaning the results are fluid until they can no longer be proven wrong (which is rarely the case).

So, I plan on continuing my use of St. John’s Wort for that time of the month (promotes a positive mood) and Echinacea and Osha root during flu season (promote a healthy immune system). And, I will also continue using my herbal skin products (handcrafted by my boyfriend’s mother in the mountains of Vermont) until something conclusive comes my way saying that these products will kill me.

Honestly, I trust the natural much more than the manufactured.

However, I do recommend using supplements that are approved by the FDA or USDA certified organic. That way you will know exactly what you’re taking. Also, in the mind of precaution, make sure to talk with your doctor about any possible interactions between supplements and any other drug you might be consuming.

My advice: inform yourself. Research the supplements you have been taking or are thinking about taking and make sure you know what you’re putting in your body. Don’t let the scientists scare you away from something that could be great for you. And of course, involve your doctor in any decision you make regarding your health.

A great place to purchase or learn more about organic supplements is Nature’s Finest Food’s, located at 6651 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg,, or online at naturalretail.com (they also offer 10 percent off everything on Wednesdays). The staff knows their stuff about supplements, and the store also provides pamphlets with more information.

The Current salutes February as Black History Month 6

Friday, February 5, 2010

viewpoints

EDITORIAL

Does the pet policy bite?

By Maren Auxier Contributing Writer We know Eckerd is one of the few colleges that allows students to have pets on campus. Thanks to the Web site ilovedogs.com, a site dedicated to dog lovers, everyone in the dog world now knows it, too.

The site touts Eckerd as “the nation’s top choice for a pet-friendly college life.”

Eckerd Pet Council Director Elliott McDaniel, a junior and Kappa Scott resident, told ilovedogs.com, “It’s scary coming to a new college. Seventy-five percent of our students are coming from outside of Florida and having that animal with them is like having a piece of home with them.” He went on to say that pets can help relieve anxiety and depression, and can also serve as ice breakers to get to know new people.

But is allowing pets on campus a good decision? Are college students mature and responsible enough to care for pets? Is college life conducive to raising a pet?

Many pet owners get up early to take their dogs out, let their hedgehogs run around outside, and generally treat their pets with care and respect.

However, there are those students who do not.

For example, there are many students who do not clean their pets’ cages. Pets have escaped from their cages because they weren’t contained well enough. Some college students seem either too lazy or irresponsible to care for an animal.

There are other issues with having pets on campus as well. Sometimes dogs develop anxiety. They cry and scratch the door whenever their owners are away, creating an annoyance for other residents.

Eckerd’s pet policy states that students are only allowed two animals, but many dorm rooms are crowded with considerably more. Depending on the type of pet, this can be detrimental to both animals’ and residents’ wellbeing. There have also been issues with poop in the hallways of pet dorms and with dog owners not cleaning up after their dogs outside. Having pets on campus is great when the owners are responsible, but irresponsibility affects the animal, fellow students,

photo by Maren Auxier Robyn Erickson and pet hedgehog, Mokona.

staff and faculty.

Jordan Barker, a sophomore and pet council member residing in Alpha Prasch, has a snake, Nika, and a cat, Amí. She got her pets after coming to Eckerd from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Animal House and Orvies.

The policy recently changed, though, and students are no longer allowed to purchase pets after they have moved onto campus. Barker agrees with this policy because in the past many students bought pets after moving into the dorm without fully thinking through the decision. She says that a dog died in a dorm room in Prasch last year, possibly from neglect.

Barker’s pet snake died when a friend failed to properly care for her $200 rainbow boa over winter break. Barker also admitted to finding two dead mice in a drawer in her dorm room last year. They had probably escaped from a negligent pet owner.

Barker makes sure to add that there are many responsible pet owners on campus. “All pets in Prasch this year are well taken care of,” she says. “Even people who don’t have pets respect them. Pets are good for both owners and non-owners, because they make a more homey atmosphere.”

She generally agrees with the campus pet policy, but she does take some issue with the leash law, and says that if dogs respond to voice command, leashes should not be required. “If your pet can be controlled by your voice, and you are following the rules, then you shouldn’t have to put a leash on your dog,” she says. Barker excitedly adds that the pet council has

been working on creating a pet park on campus. Lack of funding seems to be the hold-up.

David Durieux is a junior who adopted a rat named Princess from his sister. He also has a corn snake that is about 4.5 feet long, Spawn of Satan, because, as Durieux explains, when he first got it during freshman year it used to bite anything that moved.

Back then the snake was skinnier than a pencil, and, luckily, he solved the biting problem by feeding the snake adult mice rather than baby pink ones, which look more like human fingers and toes. He generally agrees with Eckerd’s pet policy, but admits that he would not be opposed to some sort of evaluation to ensure that pet owners take good care of their pets.

“I’ve heard of pets dying on campus from old age and disease, things that the owners could not control. I’ve also heard of pets dying from neglect but I’m not sure if it’s true and I don’t want to believe it,” he says. “I do think that the majority of people do know what they’re doing, though.”

The other issue that Durieux sees as problematic is the releasing of unwanted pets, particularly reptiles, into the wild. Sometimes they integrate into the ecosystem without damage, but not often.

Durieux says that he loves that Eckerd allows pets on campus and is surprised more campuses don’t allow it. “Pets are really good psychologically for people. It’s nice to have another living thing to relate to. For me it’s more of a hobby, it helps keep me focused and responsible, and I think this is true for many college students.”

Robyn Erickson is a junior with a pet hedgehog, Mokona. She got him at a herpetology expo in Tampa. “He was just sitting there, kinda out of place,” she laughs. Erickson has not encountered problems with having a pet on campus. “I think it’s nice having a little adorable creature in my room all the time,” she adds. As far as the pet policy goes, Erickson admits that it is difficult to have a problem with any of the policies when she has such a small domestic animal. “If I had a dog, I’d have an issue with the leash policy because I like to let Mokona run around because he has so much energy, and if I had a dog I’d want to let him run around, too.” She also says that it is difficult to determine what counts as a “pet” and what is a “domestic animal.”

The pet policy states that pets are cats, dogs (under forty pounds), rabbits, ducks, and ferrets, and any students with these animals must reside in a pet dorm.

Many students adopt pets from shelters such as the ASPA and Humane Society and give these animals a chance for a better life. However, some remain skeptical. An article in USA Today from September 2008 states, “The chaos of campus life, the tendency among young people to make impulsive choices, and the vagaries of postgraduation life make many students poor candidates for pet ownership, some experts say. Shelters in many college towns report end-of-semester pet dumping or abandonment.” The article further adds that the Humane Society is generally against students having pets in dorm rooms, citing the ASPCA as “cautiously supportive.”

Overall, the opportunity to have pets on campus remains controversial.

The benefits seem to outweigh the drawbacks, but the drawbacks come at a high cost. Many students are responsible and excellent pet owners, and they should not be punished because other students have made bad decisions. No question, not everyone complies with the current policy.

Eckerd students have a reputation for being eco-sensitive in all areas, and in general. So, are we helping pets or hurting them by allowing them in dorm rooms?

Friday, February 5, 2010

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arts & entertainment

Ahhhhhhh

By Meagan Bemis Managing Editor For many people the spring season means boating, beaches and lots of lounging outside.

For another part of the population, however, spring is a death sentence because of allergies. Many allergies require the use of prescription drugs, but I believe in the power of the home-remedy. So, in light of that, here are some easy-to-use home remedies for the pollenchallenged.

The Neti Pot Used for centuries, this nasal saline irrigation system can do wonders for those suffering from the sinus woes. Aesthetically, the neti pot looks like Aladdin’s magic lamp and is usually ceramic, but don’t let the imaginary look fool you – this thing really has some great powers. The basic cause of sinus problems (headaches, stuffy nose, sinus pressure) is blockage in the nasal passages, according to WebMD. The basic function of the Neti Pot is to clear those nasal passages.

The Neti Pot thins the mucus in your nasal passages and throughout your sinus system to flush out clogging mucus. It does it all with a tiny package of dissolving saline solution and filtered water. The Neti Pot is effective and easy to use. If you purchase a NasoFlo kit (at WalMart for about $15 or on Amazon.com for about $12.50 plus shipping) it will come with a plastic tea-kettle-looking-thing, and fifty packets of the solution.

For one application you mix one packet with 8 ounces of distilled (previously boiled) or filtered (with a Brita or something similar) water in to the kettle, lean over the sink, tilt your head to the side, open your mouth (and continue to breathe only through your mouth) and pour the mixture into one nostril while it naturally flows out the other. Use half of the mixture on one side then tilt to the other side and use the rest. Simple.

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Friday, February 5, 2010

Chooooo!

recommends spider plants, ferns and African violets.

In the bedroom, avoid down comforters and down-filled pillows (if you crave the fluffiness of down like I do, however, you can use imitation down-filled pillows or comforters: an allergy reducer and much cheaper!). Also, make sure to wash sheets and blankets in hot water every couple of weeks to reduce dust mites that like to t. collect in the mattress and beo iP et tween the sheets of your bed.

N ic m You can also get an allergen-proof re Ce mattress cover (Amazon.com for about I t $25 for a twin bed). m a y feel foreign Something Natural or strange at If you are into supplements like I am, first, but the result is you can also turn to some natural remfantastic. You can breathe! edies that help reduce allergies.

You can do the process as much Butterbur is an herb that can be equatas once per day or as little as once ed to prescription Singulair. According per month. Create your routine based on to WebMD, Butterbur “appears to work your needs. as a leukotriene inhibitor, which blocks some chemicals that trigger swelling in Allergy-proof your living space the nasal passages.” Research has shown Visit WebMD.com where you can go that the use of Butterbur root can be just through a virtual kitchen, family room, as effective as many prescription allergy bathroom, child’s room, bedroom, laundrugs, which can be expensive and of dry room, garage and yard to click on difcourse, require a prescription. ferent parts of the room to find out how to Quercetin is an herb that is found in create an allergy-proofed home. wine and some fruits and vegetables and Some examples from the site are to rid works as histamine blocker (histamines your garage of stale water and drying out increase nasal passage inflammation). damp areas and items to prevent pests such as mosquitoes and roaches, which Experts recommend Quercetin mainly can be health hazards. Look for “biode- for prevention of sinus problems and it gradable, fragrance-free and non-toxic can be used as a daily supplement.

WebMD cautions against using a spelaundry detergents and fabric softeners” cific herb marketed as a decongestant. in your laundry room to prevent both Bitter Orange is similar in composition landfill pollution and any allergens that to ephedra (a common weight loss drug can lurk in regular detergents.

Using the air conditioner during the with side-effects similar to caffeine). summer months (or in Florida, most of The side effects of Bitter Orange can be the year) is a good way to purify the air life threatening including increased risk you are breathing. Make sure to change of high blood pressure, stroke and heart the air filter regularly and place a screen problems, says WebMD. or filter (like an old pillow) over vents to Those of us who suffer from springprevent the circulation of pet dander or time allergies know how frustrating they other air-transmitted allergens.

Use indoor house plants to provide a can be and also how inconvenient getting little green inside and also naturally pu- prescription medication is. So, take adrify the air. “The foliage and roots work vantage of these home remedies and you in tandem to absorb chemical pollutants will be out frolicking in the fields of flowreleased by synthetic materials.” WebMD ers with your friends in no time.

Cele

brate

V A L E N TI N E ‘S D AY

Sunday, February 14

arts & entertainment

Events

Feb. 5—18

Friday 5 7 p.m.

International Cinema Series“Skin” (Miller Aud.) 7 p.m- 2 a.m.

First Friday

Saturday 6 9 a.m.- 8 p.m Photo Exhibit: “Congo/ Women Portraits of War: The Democratic Republic of Congo” Jan. 11- Feb. 20 (The Poynter Institute)

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

7

8

9

10

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5 p.m.

Drum Circle Sunset Spins (South Beach)

2:30 p.m.

ELS conversation Partners Party (Fox Hall)

6 p.m.

Superbowl Party (Triton’s Pub)

6:30 p.m.

Spring Break Info Session (Fox Hall)

7 p.m.

John and Kathryn Arthur “Fire on the Mountain” (Miller Aud.)

7 p.m.

John Bagwell: “Can you hear Congo now?

Making Eckerd Conflict- Free” (Fox Hall)

8 p.m.

ECOS Social (Triton’s Pub)

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7 p.m.

“The Path” Dundu Dole African Ballet (Bininger Theatre)

9 p.m.

The Art of Kising (Fox Hall)

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Hurry to Campus Activities for your FREE Ladysmith Black Mambazo ticket March 2 Mahaffey Theatre

6 p.m.

Spin with Elliott (Dance Room)

4:30-5:30 p.m.

Belly Dancing with Johanna (Dance Room) 7 p.m.

CPS- Martha Nussbaum Women and Human Development (Fox Hall) 8 p.m.

Speed Dating (Triton’s Pub)

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Saferide Begins 6 p.m.

Second Friday Fire Night (Waterfront) 7 p.m.

International Cinema Series- “ The Baader Meinhof Complex” (Miller Aud.) 9 p.m.

Latin Night (Cafe Patio)

9 p.m.

Dali Surreal Festival (Hough Quad)

Chinese New Year 3 p.m.

Chamber Music Series (Wireman Chapel) 5 p.m.

ECOS Valentine’s Dinner (Cafe)

7:30 p.m.

Matt Orosz: “Sustainable Energy in Lesotho, Africa” (Fox Hall)

8 p.m.

AAS Movie Night: “Blood Diamond” (Miller Aud.)

4:30 p.m.

Spring Break Apps. Due (Sevice Learning Office) 8 p.m Open Mic Night (Triton’s Pub)

To advertise your event with The Current, contact Entertainment Editor Francie Devine at currententertainment@eckerd.edu

Friday, February 5, 2010

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arts & entertainment REVIEWS

Melting Pot restaurant a local fun-do

By Kasey Kilinski Staff Writer The Melting Pot is an excellent restaurant choice for an interactive dining experience.

Located on 4th St. N. in St. Pete, The Melting Pot is ideal for both a romantic evening with someone special and a fun restaurant to join a group of friends for a memorable meal.

The menu may seem complicated at first glance, but becomes understandable as the friendly staff clarifies each course and what kind of combinations can be made.

For hungry patrons looking for the full Melting Pot experience, try Big Night Out, which includes a four-course meal.

The first course is the cheese fondue. The server mixes everything in front of you on the cooktop at your table. You have a choice of Cheddar, Spinach Artichoke, Wisconsin trio, Traditional Swiss and Fiesta. Don’t forget to ask your server about the seasonal Big Night Out Cheese. At last visit, it was Feng Shui Cheese, which contains white wine, mirin

(a sweetened rice wine), and sake with earthy and nutty aged Gruyere cheese and smooth horseradish and chive Havarti. The cheese fondues are all served with cubes of various breads, apple slices and tortilla chips.

The second course is the salad, the only part of the meal that is not eaten fondue style. There is a choice of different creative salads such as California, Spinach Mushroom, Caesar or House. The seasonal choice is currently Lettuce Wraps: a blend of green leaf lettuce, thinly sliced cucumber, curly carrots, bean sprouts, fresh mint and sprinkled honey roasted almonds served with mandarin orangeginger dressing.

Salad is followed by the main course. With The Big Night Out, you get to pick from three different meat/seafood combinations: Fondue Feast, Fondue Fusion, and Lobster Indulgence. For example, Fondue Fusion contains Lobster Tail, Teriyaki Sirloin, Pork Tenderloin, Chicken Breast, Shrimp, Spring Vegetable Dumplings and Fresh Vegetables.

The server will bring it raw. You then choose a cooking style: Coq au Vin, Mojo Style, Court Bouillon

or Bourguignonne. You cook your own food on the cooktop on your table There are a variety of tasty dipping sauces to enjoy with your entrée.

The final course is what keeps people coming back for more. The chocolate fondue at The Melting Pot is the most delectable of deserts. The options include Disaronno Meltdown, Cookies ‘n Cream Marshmallow Dream, Flaming Turtle, Bananas Foster, Yin & Yang, Chocolate S’mores, and Special Event. If you choose The Special Event, you can create your own chocolate fondue by selecting dark, white, or milk chocolate. You can even choose from Baileys, Cointreau, Grand Marnier, Chambord, and Tuaca to throw into your creation. All the chocolate fondues are served with strawberries, bananas, cheesecake, Rice Krispies Treats, marshmallows, pound cake and brownies.

At the end of your Melting Pot experience you will undoubtedly be full and satisfied with your night out.

The food is pricey but the over-all experience with good company makes it worth every penny. Check out the menu and locations at www.meltingpot. com.

Scream away stress at Busch Gardens and Sea World

By Kasey Kilinski Staff Writer Want to try out some new local attractions?

Check out SheiKra and Manta, two unique adrenaline-pumping roller coasters.

SkeiKra is the newest of roller coasters at Busch Gardens, a Tampa theme park about 30 minutes north of campus. The name “Sheikra” comes from shikra, an African hawk that is known to dive straight down for its prey—just like the crazy coaster does. The floorless ride has three rows with eight seats across each. It begins with a slow but steady climb of 200 feet. At the top, the train swoops around leisurely, giving passengers no choice but to get a feel for the terrifying height. The coaster suspends riders for a few seconds at a 90-degree angle, making them believe they are about to plummet face first to the ground— and then lets them drop. This ride is not one courtesy of Busch Gardens The SheiKra roller coaster at Busch Gardens.

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that is easily forgotten.

Manta is the newest roller coaster at SeaWorld in Orlando. This ride is the only one of its kind, inspired by the movement of manta rays that fly so elegantly under the water’s surface. The coaster is essentially a giant manta with the wingspan of 12 feet.

Passengers are secured to the manta’s belly as they lay horizontally face down, giving each rider a front-row seat. Passengers (if not too afraid to open their eyes) get the opportunity to experience incredible views while flying through the air as if a graceful—but fast— manta.

SheiKra and Manta are different from all other coasters in the U.S. If you are looking for a new experience,or to get away for a few hours, check out these thrill-packed rides. For more information, check out www.buschgardens. com and www.ridetheflyinggray.com/ manta/.

sports

Sailing to the top

By Kasey Kilinski Staff Writer To put it simply, Emilie Mademann, a 20-year-old management major from Statesville, N.C., loves sailing.

Growing up in Canada, Mademann began sailing at age 8, three years after she had taken up interest in softball. However, the lack of a softball team in the area led Mademann to sign up for a sailing camp offered by her parent’s yacht club, but wasn’t enthusiastic about it initially.

“At first, I actually hated sailing,” Mademann admits. She especially did not enjoy learning to capsize, the focus of the second day of camp. “I wanted to quit, but continued the rest of the week, then fell in love.”

After her first week of camp, Mademann decided to stay on for the rest of the summer and continued sailing every summer up until she was 16.

When choosing a college two years ago, Mademann paid special attention to sailing opportunities offered by schools. Eckerd quickly garnered interest.

Mademann says that because the sailing team is coed, it makes the dynamics especially fun. “We support each other from 6:30 a.m. workouts to ultimate Frisbee and 3-hour practices every day.” photos courtesy of Emilie Mademann Top: Mademann and Caeli McGaunn during practice, and left: Sailing in Nova Scotia.

The team holds many bonding activities to stress the importance of being able to work together. “I compete on both the women’s and coed teams, and I also sail Laser’s which is a one-person boat.”

Mademann says that she really enjoys her role on the team and has made an effort to get to know each member.

The sailing team competes in regattas, which consist of a pre-determined course sailors must race to navigate. A sailing team typically sends four sailors to a regatta, two drivers, and two crews. There are two divisions representing Eckerd in every regatta, with competitions stretching across the country, and two or three regattas happening on any given weekend.

Mademann says that her proudest sailing moment at Eckerd was competing in both the women’s and coed nationals in San Francisco, Calif. last semester. She recently qualified to compete in the single-handed nationals in Corpus Christi, Texas, which has long been her goal. “I finished 13th of 18 boats, which I am very proud of.”

Sailing can get rough, and injuries are quite common. Mademann has suffered a few concussions and trouble with her knees, and has been struggling with a shoulder injury from softball.

This year, the sailing team, which is still a fairly young organization, is doing well. The women’s team is ranked tenth in the nation, and recently won their qualifier in Charleston. Since Mademann joined, the team has competed in three national championships.

Following graduation, Mademann hopes to find a more permanent place in the sailing community.

Currently a coach during the summer, turning that into a full-time position would be ideal, says Mademann. “My ultimate job would be to coach sailing year round.”

Sports Men’s Basketball Currently 4th in SSC 11-7 overall (4-4 in conference)

Women’s Basketball

Currently 9th in SSC 7-10 overall (1-7 in conference)

Saturday, Feb. 6 v. Nova Southeastern 4 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 6 v. Nova Southeastern 2 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 10 v. Florida Southern 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 10 v. Florida Southern 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 13 @ Florida Tech 4 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 13 @ Florida Tech 2 p.m.

Baseball

Softball

Saturday, Feb. 6 v. Warner (FL) DH 1 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 6 v. Palm Beach Atlantic (DH) 1 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 9 @ Clearwater Christian 7 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 6 v. Warner Southern (DH) 4 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 12 v. Palm Beach Atlantic 7 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 6 v. Webber Onternational (DH) 4 p.m.

Friday, February 5, 2010

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sports

The Olympics are on, but who’s watching?

By Max Martinez Sports Editor Things just feel different this time around. Somewhere along the 3,000-yearold path from Ancient Greece to modern Vancouver, the Olympics lost its way.

The Winter Olympics have always been like the little brother of the summer games, in both age and popularity. The Summer Olympics are rich with history stretching back to the days of Hercules and Zeus, when Greek athletes would compete in feats of strength to please the gods. Back when naked Spartans ruled the podium (athletic nudity was common, especially among the Spartans), the Olympics were a hugely popular and important event, uniting cities and ending conflicts; Temporary truces stopped all wars, and executions were delayed during Olympic contests.

This year, as team America participates in the opening ceremonies, thousands upon thousands of troops will continue to fight a seven-year-old war on two separate fronts. Conflicts in various parts of the globe will churn on without regard to whether or not Johnny Weir wins his first Olympic gold.

At home, millions of Americans will opt to watch American Idol instead of the broadcasts from Vancouver. Some say the Olympics just are not amusing enough anymore. Bullsh*t, America.

What’s more amusing than an hour of Curling, the underappreciated love child of hockey and shuffleboard? The game sounds simple enough: One guy (gently) launches a stone across the ice as two teammates sweep the ice to help navigate the stone to a target. Naturally, Canada is a formidable curling powerhouse, leading the world with six Olympic medals in the sport.

Ice Hockey, which in 1980 provided us with the legendary “miracle on ice” match, also returns to the Olympic stage. Team America (not to be confused with the talking puppets of the same name) is in the same pool as Team Canada, producing an ever-enjoyable rivalry match on the 21st.

Then there is speed skating. As if people racing around an oval ice track in spandex at ridiculous speeds wasn’t thrilling enough, Stephen Colbert has gotten

photo courtesy of Wikicommons Team Canada competing in the curling championships, an underappreciated Olympic event.

involved with the team. Facing a budget shortfall, Colbert signed a contract to become the official sponsor of US speed skating.

NBC, along with several other partner networks including USA, is broadcasting from Vancouver for 17 days with coverage throughout the day and night. Turn off American Idol and CSI for a couple weeks and take in a true winter classic.

That is, unless Archer is on FX. Then you have a valid excuse to miss it all.

Life after Eckerd: Tales from men’s soccer Alums

By Kirsten Sengstacke Contributing Writer At Eckerd College, soccer, or athletics in general, isn’t necessarily a way of life as say football or basketball is to Division I fanatics. The phrase “Game Day” doesn’t quite possess the same kind of tenor within the community unless you are one of the devoted athletes, or perchance a committed fan or caring family member. The importance of Division II sports doesn’t really hold the same sort of weight as Division I, and, sorry to say, essentially falls to the wayside of academics.

With a sport like soccer, which already lacks a strong hold within the American sports viewing population, it is hard not to wonder how central it is within the Division II collegiate athletic community.

Playing professional, or semi-professional, soccer for that matter as a lifetime career is a very difficult thing to accomplish for a young male athlete, especially coming out of a Division II soccer program in the United States.

As one of the committed sports fans at Eckerd College who actually does take the time to watch the 14

Friday, February 5, 2010

men’s soccer team perform to the best of its ability, a few questions arise. I can’t help but wonder what becomes of those student-athletes who do care, who are dedicated, who do see the importance of their sport and what they do? What happens to those players post-graduation? Do they go on to continue playing at a professional level? Do they wind up coaching? Does soccer still maintain the same meaning within their life as it once did?

Talking with Eckerd graduates Alex Brown ‘06, Nathan Bender ‘07, and John Fletcher ’09, these answers are what I intend to discover.

For many young athletes who go on to play soccer at the collegiate level, it is safe to say that they started young, so young that they hardly even remember the first time they touched a soccer ball. “I played my first game when I was six years old,” says Oregon native Alex Brown. “The only reason I know that is because my parents videotaped it.”

Those who do start off playing soccer during the delicate and impressionable ages of their childhood and carry that passion forward into their young adult lives are bound to imagine some kind of future that involves kicking a ball across a green soccer pitch.

“My dream as a youngster was always to spend my life playing football and so far I’ve been lucky enough to do that,” John Fletcher expresses with an affection and charm that a only a true Englishman can.

When the time came, playing soccer at the next level was something that Fletcher and Brown, as well as their teammate Nathan Bender planned and anticipated, for not only themselves but for their potential careers. Seen as strong assets to the Triton student-athlete community, all three young men were invited by different respective head coaches to visit Eckerd’s sunny campus and capitalize on the opportunity to explore the soccer program and train with the team.

“He [then head coach Gregory Moss] came to watch me play for my high school team,” explains Bender, “and then invited me to visit campus for the weekend and train with the team. He then offered me a spot on the team and I took it.”

Disappointed with a freshman year that was less than expected, winning only four games total, Bender was able to perform individually and make a name for himself as a midfielder on See Soccer on PAGE 15 the team. Progressing into a

sports winning record over was English and made a huge effort to call me and the next couple of help me out with all the appropriate paper work, also years, Bender was I fell in love with the campus and really enjoyed the Page 14 given the desirable thought of living in Florida.” title of captain, leading his team while continually Finding opportunity in the difficulty of playing advancing individually. He is proud to say, “I was in the sweltering heat of Florida, Fletcher has the first ever captain to beat a number one team in been continually focused on improving himself the nation, as well as the first captain in 25 years to individually as not just a soccer player but as a achieve a top 25 national ranking.” person as well. “My experience at Eckerd was overall After graduating, Bender set his sights on playing a fantastic one; I was lucky enough to earn many professionally. During the summer after graduation, awards in my time playing and generally found the he traveled across the pond to play in England. standard challenging and helped me develop. Aside After a few months, he came back to the States and from soccer Eckerd is a wonderful place to grow as attended the try-out combines for the MSL (Major a person and I thoroughly enjoyed my four years League Soccer) and the USL (United Soccer League), there.” before he finally decided By the time his to take the position as “whether it’s my own kid or kids senior year began there assistant coach for the were already several team he once dedicated or something like that…I’ll always professional teams in four years of his life to, somehow be involved with the America that had their the Eckerd Tritons. When eyes on Fletcher as a game.” describing his coaching player. After graduation, -Alex Brown however, role, Bender states, “It Fletcher was a little awkward in knew that if he had the the first few months, but I adapted to it and was opportunity he would be back in England playing happy to adjust to my new role. I think coaching football rather than soccer, explaining, “I thought makes me miss it [playing for Eckerd] more because it best to return home to play as that was always I am still so closely involved coaching, because I am my dream, to play professionally in England.” coaching every day instead of training and playing.” Fortunately so far, Fletcher has been able to imagine Across the pond, Fletcher had no idea what or the reality of his dream playing for a semi-professional where Eckerd College was prior to being recruited. team at home, “I’m enjoying it and looking forward On the cusp of an expiring contract with the Queens to building a reputation in England and working my Park Rangers, Fletcher was ready for a new change way up the leagues.” of pace. With several opportunities to play at home Alex Brown’s story is a slightly different in England, as well as offers in the States from one. Being from Oregon, Brown did not have the Harvard, Xavier, and University of North Carolina, advantage of being recruited personally by a coach Fletcher explains “I chose Eckerd because the coach from Eckerd. Instead he went through on-line

Soccer continued from

college databases and discovered Eckerd on his own. “Since it was a small program and I was all the way from Oregon, I found him [the current head coach Jim Denoble] and e-mailed him and he called me and that was that.” During his time playing for Eckerd, Brownie (the nickname attributed to him by his fellow teammates) was respected as team captain his junior and senior years, he also made third team all-conference both years and was honored with the Triton award his senior year.

Brown came to a realization that as he grew older soccer began to play less of a central role in his life. Playing for the local men’s league team, the South Pinellas Soccer Club, Brown finds the fix that he needs, enjoying the thrill of playing the game that he grew up to love. Thinking about it now, Brown explains that there will always be the “what if I had chosen college for soccer, where would I be now” in the back of his mind, but in the end he is happy, he has no regrets. He knows soccer will always be a part of his life, whether he plays with a local club team or watches the professionals on television. He even toys with the prospect of coaching one day, “whether it’s my own kid or kids or something like that…I’ll always somehow be involved with the game.”

Talking with these three young men, hearing the passion they hold for the game of soccer within their voice, has made it clear that soccer will always be a significant and central piece of their life in one way or another. I guess you could say the phrase “once a soccer player, always a soccer player,” is very suiting when referring to the student-athlete soccer players at Eckerd College.

Whether they make it professionally or not, Fletcher sums up that genuinly authentic mind-set of a true soccer player. “Most of all I just want to play.”

5000 34th St. South 727-866-7200

Eckerd College Student Discount Medium 1 topping $5.55 Large 1 topping $7.77 Medium 1 topping, bread stix, & 2-20oz sodas $11.50 Large 1 topping, bread stix, & 2-20oz sodas $13.50 Valid for carryout & delivery ($2 delivery charge applies) Friday, February 5, 2010

15

The Official Student Newspaper of Eckerd College

sports

Page 13

Triton sailor Emilie Mademann

Page 14

Do the Olympics even matter?

Pages 14-15

Men’s soccer grads on life after graduation photo by Doug Thayer Freshman Darrien Mack attempting a free throw against UPR-Bayamon