Issue 6, Volume 123 Thursday, October 6, 2016
page 3
Page Page #2 •• SECTION OPINIONS
Thursday, September Thursday, October11, 6, 2014 2016
The importance of your vote Established in 1894 with the following editorial:
In this critical 2016 election, students are encouraged to go to the polls and exercise their right to vote. Ellie Rushing
EXECUTIVE STAFF Lauren Waymire Editor-in-Chief Alexandra Mariano Managing Editor Caroline Arrigoni Production Manager
CONTENT STAFF Raquel Leon Head Content Editor Amanda Grace Head Copy Editor
Barbara Padilla Rebecca Candage Minoska Hernandez Morgan McConnell Copy Editors Eric Hilton Kalli Joslin Section Editors Christina Fuleihan Staff Writer Kalli Joslin Nolan Brewer Web Editors
DESIGN DEPARTMENT Shaayann Khalid Head Designer Victoria Villavicencio Zoe Kim Maliha Qureshi Designer
BUSINESS & FACULTY Greg Golden
General Manager of Student Media
Dr. Bill Boles Faculty Advisor David Neitzel Business Manager Taylor McCormack Business Intern Jose Araneta Student Media Graduate Assistant
ADVERTISING
Contact: advertising@thesandspur.org
Cover Art Designed By Caroline Arrigoni ‘16
Writer
Voter turnout has been a problem for the United States for decades. In 2012, less than 54 percent of the eligible population turned out to vote—93 million people decided not to weigh in on who should run their country for the next four years. Compared to other developed countries, our voter turnout is pretty pathetic. Belgium’s turnout reached 87 percent, with Australia and South Korea following closely behind at 80 percent. In fact, the United States ranks 31st out of 34 countries involved with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development when it comes to voting; Slovakia and Estonia have higher turnouts than we do. With disapproval ratings at record highs for both candidates, America’s 2016 presidential election may somehow set even lower record lows for voting.
I consistently hear people moan, “I hate all the candidates. I am not going to vote for anybody.” You may not like a candidate, but there are still so many reasons outlining the importance of using your right to vote, even if it means checking off the box for the lesser of two evils. As thousands of issues in the U.S. continue to be ignored, it is obvious that appealing to conscience cannot do the job anymore—the interest of the individual is placed above all else in our society. It has also been proven that although Americans love to boast national pride through our flag, colors, and holidays, we have yet to identify voting as equally patriotic of an action. How do we change public perception to encourage voter turnout and active participation in our widely-celebrated democracy? Maybe it comes down to penalizing those who do not vote. Or rewarding those who do.
Nearly two dozen countries have implemented mandatory voting, sentencing community service or fines to those who do not feel the need to express their right to vote. Whether or not you feel this is unethical, it exemplifies just how valued each individual vote is. Your vote counts, America wants to be able to count it, so be a catalyst for change and just vote. I do understand some citizens’ difficulty in obtaining safe transportation to the voting facility and in sacrificing valuable working hours in today’s stressful economy. Maybe the cultural change that America needs is for our government to recognize Election Day as a national holiday (or company holiday at least), making getting to the polls easier for everybody. Face it: whether you like it or not, one of these two candidates is going to be named the next President of the United States. Voting for a third-party
candidate may help you sleep at night, but in the end will have no effect in preventing one of the two from holding office. Consider voting for the candidate who will have the least negative impact on our country the next four years. Read up on each candidate’s policies; being an informed voter may make you feel a little less uncomfortable when casting your ballot. Put your money where your mouth is, America, and appreciate the freedom so many have been tortured, jailed, and killed for. Drive the five minutes, stand in line, and sacrifice your typical time management style to have a say in the future of our country’s security and welfare. Rollins students: if this means you have to use up one of your three absences in a class to travel to a voting site, then so be it. When it comes to casting your vote this November 8th, do as Shia Labeouf says and “JUST. DO. IT!”
Montreal confounds with pit bull ban Alexandra Mariano Managing Editor There has been an outcry recently in regards to our neighbor to the north—and outcry there should be. Last Tuesday, Sept. 27, Montreal’s city council voted with a 62% majority in favor of a city-wide ban of pit bulls. The breed-restrictive legislation was hastily drawn in fear; consequently, it is horrendous, first in its intentions and second in its lack of understanding of the pit bull breed. Under the ban, no pit bulls will be listed as adoptable at shelters, meaning all pit bulls currently in shelters may legally face a fate of euthanization. That means around 700 dogs—some saved from an abused past and wagging their tails happily toward a brighter future—could be eliminated as soon as the by-law takes effect. In short, Montreal’s city council has voted in a mass execution of unadopted dogs. For households that already have a pit bull as a member of the family, the ratified legislation requires owners to microchip, vaccinate, and sterilize their dogs, purchase a special permit, muzzle their pets in public while
keeping them on a four-foot leash at all times, and undergo a criminal background check. Pit bull owners will now be expected to spend an exorbitant amount of money on pet fees or else relinquish their dogs to the same fate as shelter pits: execution. With such harsh consequences, you might think that the city council knows exactly which sort of animal they are looking for... but you would be wrong. The by-law makes no effort to define what legislators intend by using the phrase “pit bull,” a term used in the identification of four different breeds: the American pit bull terrier, the American Staffordshire terrier, the Staffordshire bull terrier, and the American bully. Unfortunately, any mixed-breed muscular dog with a blocky head can wrongfully be identified as a pit bull, a mistake the Montreal police have already made. This by-law was proposed as a direct result of a fatal mauling last June. Officers on the scene initially identified the attacking dog as a pit bull without getting close enough to see most of its features. The police department has recently issued a statement
admitting that they did not know for sure the animal’s breed, only that it was excessively aggressive. This is the kind of generalized prejudice we need to get rid of in our society: seeing a single, aggressive dog and immediately labeling entire breeds as something they are not due to misinformed preconceptions. Are pit bulls large dogs? Yes, they typically range between 65 and 80 pounds. Yes, a lot of that weight is pure muscle. Were they originally bred for fighting? Yes, in 1835; modern pits are nearly 200 years removed from that abusive beginning. Pit bulls have held historically noble roles, too, such as Sir Thomas and Kaiser, beloved bull terriers who belonged to Helen Keller in the early 1900s. Society needs to stop seeing one fatal attack, one tragedy, as the crime of all pit bulls. We need to start recognizing the gentle faces of pit bulls instead of the bared teeth that the news loves to show us. New York-based photographer Sophie Gamand does a wonderful job of this with her “Flower Power” project, an initiative where she takes portraits of pit bulls wearing flower
crowns. If more people saw in pits what Gamand shows in her photos, there would be no mass execution of an entire breed in a major city. There couldn’t be. This is all coming from a writer who has a pet rottweiler—another breed typically associated with aggressive behavior. This is coming from a writer who has brought her best friend to walk around Rollins on Fox Day only to watch people go out of their way to not cross our path. My dog’s name is Coco. Her front paws can come up to my shoulders. She has a very intimidating bark, but she sleeps in my bed with me, licks my mother’s hands, tries to sit in my older sister’s lap, and makes my five-year-old niece giggle. Many pit bull owners have similar tales to tell fondly of their beloved, harmless pets. While the legislation was supposed to be put into effect this past Monday Oct. 3, Canadian Judge Louis Gouin suspended the law until Wednesday, Oct. 5 in order to give consideration to the Montreal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’s protests before giving the final word.
The opinions on this page do not necessarily reflect those of The Sandspur, its staff or Rollins College.
Thursday, October 6, 2016
Page 3 • FEATURES
Getting ahead for grad school exams Graduate school exams can be intimidating, but understanding the tests and resources available can be a big help. Tamara Vuckovich
Writer
Do you remember that time in high school when you prepared to take the SAT or ACT to increase your chances of getting into college? Fast forward a few years, and now you are preparing to take another standardized test to increase your chances of getting into graduate school. Almost all graduate schools require you to take a standardized test. Some of the tests grad schools use for admission are the LSAT (Law School Admission Test), MCAT (Medical College Admission Test), GRE (Graduate Record Examination), and GMAT (General Managerial Assessment Test). All tests are big deciding factors on admission into most graduate schools. The LSAT is a huge determinant for admission into law school. According to the Law School Admission Council, the test assesses reading comprehension and logical and verbal reasoning proficiencies. It costs $175 to register for it, and it is only offered four times a year. In addition, you may only take the LSAT three times in any twoyear period. Megan Block ’17 has found the process of applying to grad school to be stressful and overwhelming. She will be taking the LSAT on September 24. Last
September, she took it for the first time after studying for three months using Kaplan. Megan has continued to use the Kaplan online course for ten weeks to help prepare her for her upcoming test. In total, she studies three hours every day. “It is very important to study for the LSAT. It is a really big portion of what law schools look at. The logical reasoning portion of the exam you don’t get much exposure to in school. You learn it by practicing it.” The MCAT is used for admission into medical school. It assesses problem solving, critical thinking, and elements related to the field of medicine. The exam is seven hours and thirty minutes long. It costs $305 to take when you register in advance; the price increases to $355 approximately two weeks prior to the exam. Therefore, registering for the test at least a month in advance will help you avoid any excess charges. In a single testing year, prospective medical students can take the exam up to three times. In a two-year period, prospective medical students can take it up to four times. MCAT administratiors allow prospective medical students to take the exam a total of seven times in a lifetime. The new 2017 testing calendar has been released and offers 25 test dates with the first set for Janu-
ary 19 and the last scheduled on September 9. The Association of American Medical Colleges recommends students to find volunteer opportunities and gain work experience in the medical field prior to attending medical school. Gaining lab experience is another way for students to better prepare for medical school. The AAMC offers additional resources, test prep material, and volunteer/employment opportunities on its website: https://students-residents.aamc.org The GRE is for students planning to go to grad school or business school. The test is comprised of verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. A unique component of the test is that it allows students to choose and send only their best scores. It costs $205 to register for the GRE, which is offered in two formats: computer-delivered and paper-delivered. Students can take the computer-delivered test up to five times in one year; alternatively, they can take the paper delivered exam as often as it is offered. The GMAT is for students interested in obtaining a master’s degree in business administration, economics, or accounting. There is a free GMAT workshop coming up here at Rollins; however, the date has not yet been determined. During that workshop, faculty will talk about
the test and study strategies. Rollins College offers students many resources to prepare for entrance exams into graduate school. The test preparation department currently offers preparation for the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test), GRE, and the LSAT. LSAT prep courses are offered online starting on October 20 and ending on November 29. They are offered every Tuesday and Thursday from 7-9 p.m. GRE prep courses are offered online as well as on-campus. The on-campus courses start September 17 and continue until October 22, every Saturday from 8:30-12:30 p.m. The online courses are from September 14 to October 10, every Monday and Wednesday from 7-10 p.m. Lastly, the GMAT prep courses are offered online and on-campus. Online courses are September 15 to October 11, every Tuesday and Thursday from 7-10 p.m. On-campus courses are September 17 to October 22, every Saturday from 1-5 p.m. Gerald Wilhelm leads many of the test prep courses, and for good reason—he scored in the 98th percentile on the GMAT. Wilhelm has been teaching review courses for the language portions of the GMAT, LSAT, and GRE for Kaplan Test Prep and the Crummer School for many years. More information
about Gerald Wilhelm and the test preparation department can be found on the Rollins website. Another resource available to students is the Olin library. The immense collection provides test prep materials for the GRE, GMAT, MCAT, and LSAT. Some of these are print versions, but there are electronic books available as well. Our public services librarian, Susan E. Montgomery, has grown very fond of the database Lynda.com. As Montgomery described, “Lynda.com is a leading online learning company that helps users develop business, software, technology, and creative skills to achieve personal and professional goals.” Lynda. com offers a variety of test prep material, from videos to sample questions to reviews. In addition, the Tutoring and Writing Center can help applicants prepare for any exams that include an essay component. The process of applying to grad school can be stressful. Although preparing your resume, maintaining good grades, and immersing yourself in extracurricular activities are important, grad school entrance exams remain a big deciding factor on college admission. Familiarize yourself with the format of the test offered in your field of study because it seems like standardized tests are here to stay.
Homecoming Week spurs campus spirit Events organized by the homecoming court, including Tar Taxi and a 5k charity walk, rang in Rollins’ first Homecoming. Madeline Spies
Writer
Last week, in hopes of spurring schoolwide Tar pride, Rollins celebrated its first Homecoming Week. Events included Tar Taxi and Tar Trivia, a homecoming fair, a “Spike Gold” volleyball game, and a 5k charity walk, run, or roll to honor those who lost their lives in the Pulse shooting. The week’s festivities finished with a block party and
“Blue out” soccer game. Although there was originally going to be a homecoming dance as part of the celebrations, poor weather conditions led administration to postpone; the outdoor dance will now be held at the end of October or in early November. The Homecoming Fair, which was on Wednesday, featured free T-shirts, snow cones, corn hole games and more. The fair was a success, with many
students attending and a more than 30% increase in likes on the SGA’s Facebook page. The final day of Homecoming Week was a blast as students got pumped up for the soccer game. The fired-up crowd was excited to enjoy the a BBQ Cook Off, thrown by Fraternity and Sorority Life, at a block party before the match. The homecoming court included: Morgan Laner ‘18, an Alfond Scholar and Peer Mentor;
Carolyn Rizzo ‘17, a Peer Mentor and designer of the “Spike Gold” T-shirts; Nick Schultz ‘17, a certified Uber driver and Peer Mentor; Kyle Oliver ‘18, a vegan and a member of Chi Psi; Dean Arthur ‘17, a Peer Mentor who, as a teenager, scored the winning goal in the U.S. hockey nationals; Clay Philips ‘18, captain of the lacrosse team; Brianna Barrett ‘19, a Resident Assistant and Delta Zeta Pi Theta member; Miola Aganovic ‘17, Peer Mentor and
member of Non Compis Mentis; Kolten Ellis ‘16, a resident assistant and co-president of the debate team; and Angel Whetstone ‘17, an assistant hall director and member of Chi Omega. Unfortunately, the Saturday soccer game was canceled due to inclement weather and there wasn’t a chance for two Rollins Royals to be named. The game against the Eckerd Tritons has been rescheduled for Wednesday, October 26th at 7 p.m. at Barker Family
Page Page #2 NEWS& ENTERTAINMENT 4 •• SECTION ARTS
Thursday, September Thursday, October11, 6, 2014 2016
Virtual reality house premieres at halloween horror nights Alexandra Mariano
Managing Editor Halloween Horror Nights is back this year for the 26th time ...and it’s back with a vengeance. The theme for this year is “Chance”—as in, “You won’t stand a chance against the nightmares that Universal Orlando has brought to life.” The namesake comes from Jack the Clown’s partner in horror, who guests can meet face-to-face in her very own scare zone. Other novelties of this year’s event include a completely unprecedented Virtual Reality experience dubiously named “The Repository,” which garnered much online attention even before opening, as well as the additions of houses based on the American Horror Story and Krampus franchises. Returning guests will be happy to know that the famous Walking Dead haunted house has been remodeled and reopened for business. Within the walls of The Repository, haunts and horrors literally get in your face through a blend of exclusive technology, live scare actors, and an engulfing environment which employs UV lighting that makes the very walls pop. A little expert advice: expect some gore. Universal Orlando owes this one-of-a-kind experience to a collaboration with VRstudios, a Washington-based company that was the first to offer wireless virtual reality technology with no motion limitations that is also capable of accommodating simultaneous users. Attendees can enter this experience in a group of up to five people. Although the company has been around since 2014, this is Universal’s first year partnering with them; the park hopes to use the 26th annual Halloween Horror Nights as a trial to pave the way toward integrating more VR elements fully into future houses. This all-new, all-immersive experience comes at an extra fee of $49.99... but, after all, who can really put a price on innovation? Of the all the haunted houses staking space at HHN26, American Horror Story is perhaps the most anticipated.
The house incorporates material from multiple seasons of the hit show, inviting guests inside Harmon’s Murder House before transforming them into the twisted Freak Show cast and then finally checking them into the infamous Hotel Cortez. “It’s [the show’s] constant evolution that makes this popular series a perfect fit for Halloween Horror Nights,” said Michael Aiello, Director of Entertainment Creative Development for Universal Orlando. Expect to be looking over your shoulder for Twisty the Clown as well as the Countess. Universal has given into the desires of their guests, as American Horror Story was the number-one requested maze. Krampus is perhaps the most comedy-tinged horror you will find this year, as the haunted house is based off of the film where the demonic form of Santa Claus comes to town. Even though the scenery is all snow and ice, this is very much a Halloween attraction, and guests will be attacked by dark elves, conniving gingerbread men, and scowling teddy bears. Another much-loved television series, The Walking Dead, has been resurrected by Universal’s creative team; this time the house strays away from a chronological approach and instead presents icons from throughout the show in a flurry of shadowed horror: the hospital, the Governor’s home, Terminus (the promised refuse of the apocalyptic world), and The Wolves. Halloween Horror Nights came just in time this year, as guests can relive the scares before the premiere of the show’s seventh season later this month. Other houses are inspired by The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, The Exorcist, and Halloween II, as well as completely original tales, including You Won’t Stand a Chance, Ghost Town: The Curse of Lightning Gulch, and Tomb of the Ancients. Florida Resident tickets range from $55.99 to $82.99 depending on the day of the week, and Frequent Fear Passes start at $102.99 for nineteen nights and end at $199.99 for every single night of horror. Happy screaming!
Photos courtesy of Universal Orlando
Page 5 • ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Artlando celebrates Orlando’s art culture
Tamara Vuckovich
Writer
Artlando returned to Loch Haven Park this past Saturday, October 1, for its annual celebration of the arts. It was an all-day art festival celebrating Orlando’s creators and culture. From jewelry makers to painters, a variety of artists came to exhibit their work, proceeds from which went directly back to creators. There were many interactive exhibits where onlookers were encouraged to take part in the creative process by drawing and painting on the canvases provided. There were over twenty food trucks from Tasty Tuesdays in The Milk District. On a beautiful but very hot day, Jeremiah’s was there selling its delicious and popular Italian Ice and soft ice cream. Of the bigger corporations, Jamba Juice was also present, selling refreshing smoothies. From 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., it was Artlando Happy Hour,
THURSDAY OCTOBER 13th BALDWIN PARK BENEFITTING
www.JLGO.org
where Artlando bars were selling half-off New Belgium Beer. Publix was also present to promote the grand opening of the new Winter Park Publix Aprons Cooking School. In celebration, rows of tables stood lined up for public sushi lessons. Music was also integrated through tribal and Hip Hop dances, musicals, and much more. The set for Artlando After Dark, which began at 7:30 p.m., included The Ladies of Peek-aBoo Lunge and Rock Hard Revue. Throughout the festival, people of all ages could catch music appropriate for them. The Artlando festival of 2016 benefitted the Cancer Support Community at Orlando Health. Artlando was a wonderful way to bring people together to appreciate art, music, food, and culture while raising awareness about those fighting cancer in our community. Festival crowds stood to remind survivors that they are not alone.
Thursday, October 6, 2016
Mad Cow Theatre’s ‘1776’
Mad Cow Theater’s ‘1776’ offers a fresh take on the musical, representing the founding fathers with an all female cast. Bailey Miller
Student Media Intern
1776: the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the birthing of America, and a musical. These three things came to life Sunday, September 25 as the Mad Cow Theatre in downtown Orlando continued their installment of 1776. In typical Mad Cow fashion, 1776 was a classic put on with a twist. In a depiction of a time when men were the only ones allowed in the room to decide the fate of this new country, Mad Cow Theatre shunted the patriarchy with an all-female cast. The cast which graced the stage included actresses of color, the most memorable of whom being Ms. Lulu Picart, who portrayed Edward Rutledge of South Carolina. Rutledge was the man who
led the debate to remove Thomas Jefferson’s section of the Declaration that would set out to abolish slavery; in a subversive move, audiences watched Picart, a woman of color, portray a man who fought to maintain slavery’s staple in America. Bold actions like this met with the women’s ability to maintain their femininity while portraying men to make Mad Cow’s rendition of 1776 a powerful one. From the opening piece, “For God’s Sake, John, Sit Down,” to the final song, “Is Anybody There?,” the women’s voices rang out. Passionate encounters between John and Abigail Adams and the anger behind Rutledge’s “Molasses to Rum” sent out powerful vocals that echoed throughout the theatre. Through this stunning performance, the
clacking of heels and the occasionally effeminate clothing did not make me question the masculinity of the characters portrayed before me. Not for a moment did I feel that Laura Hoods’ John Adams lacked outspokenness; not once did I question that Melissa Whitworth’s Thomas Jefferson and Ms. Jennafer Newberry’s Martha Jefferson were in love. The passion, the devotion, the power displayed on stage: all of this captivated me, bringing me into a show that I entered with skepticism. When I arrived, I wondered how an all-female cast would work to depict the overwhelmingly male narrative of America’s beginnings. But they worked well, and the show excelled. Mad Cow Theatre’s 1776 soared, and it will continue to with each show until final bows on October 23.
RACE & FUN RUN HALLOWEEN PARTY COSTUMES CONTEST PRESENTED BY
SPECIAL OFFER $5 OFF REGISTRATION THRU OCTOBER 5 WITH CODE: HH5K_Rollins
HalloweenHustleWithUs.com
Photos courtesy of Mad Cow Theatre
Page 6 • FEATURES
Thursday, October 6, 2016
Rollins welcomes Medical Ethics Club
AAAS minor expands curriculum
The latest emphasis on ethics and psychology in the MCAT has inspired students to create a new club. Christina Fuleihan Staff Writer As ethics continue to become increasingly essential in the health professional fields, there has been a movement towards well-rounded, morally-aware health professionals. The MCAT, for instance, has recently taken to including psychology, sociology, and ethics on the exam in an effort to identify morally-aware pre-med students. Medicine requires an ethical approach to science, health, and humanity, especially as technology and new discoveries create increasingly delicate situations. Whether it be physician-assisted suicide, organ donation, pharmaceutical trials, or stem-cell research, it is impossible to deny how closely interwoven ethics and medicine have become in recent years. One need only to take Dr. Eric Smaw’s Medical Ethics class to become aware of the many issues that plague the health-care system from both an ethical and practical perspective. Therefore, it is with great anticipation that many students have welcomed the newly formed Medical Ethics Club, here at Rollins. This club was founded by student Kendall Per-
kins ‘18, with faculty advisor, Dr. Smaw. According to Perkins, the purpose of the club will be to discuss and debate “topics of interest in the medical field through presentations by professors as well as physicians.” During the club’s first meeting on Tuesday, September 27, Biology Professor Dr. Pieczynski presented on the topic of Genome Editing Technologies. According to Dr. Pieczynski, “[the] lecture concerned the topic of a technique for genome editing called CRISPR-Cas9. Theoretically, you can use this type of technology to edit, remove, or add any DNA to the genome of any organism, including humans... Imagine you have a child that has a genetic disorder such as Type I Diabetes. Hypothetically, using CRISPR-Cas9 we could target the defective alleles causing the Type I Diabetes and fix them before they become a problem for the child. I want to stress that we cannot do this yet, but it is not out of the question to think that it will be possible in future.” The discussion which followed the lecture focused on how the advancement of technology would affect the Hippocratic Oath, who would have access to
such technology, and the different ways in which such technology could be utilized. Such discussions can open the door for other opportunities and new outlooks. Dr. Pieczynski really enjoyed having the opportunity to present, and said that he would also be willing to give the talk again if another group of students were interested. He “would also be interested in getting some of [his] colleagues from other departments, such as philosophy and religion, to join the discussion as [he] would be really interested in their viewpoint on the material... As with any other new technology, there are major moral and ethical questions associated with it.” A space in which people can debate relevant issues from the perspectives of various different expertises and experiences has always been viewed as the pillar of a learning environment. After all, the resolution of ethical issues is as relevant to the advancement of health as scientific breakthroughs. For those who were not able to attend the first Medical Ethics Club discussion, they can look forward to attending the next bi-weekly club meeting.
Accepts R-Cards! “My favorite is spinach, tomato, and feta”
Locally Owned and Operated Orlando, FL 32751
OPEN 000-000-000
Minimum Purchase required for delivery. Delivery charge may apply. Limited delivery areas.
1214 99
& Marbled Cookie Brownie
$
each
CODE 5041
LIMITED TIME OFFER
LIMITED TIME OFFER Cash Value 1/20c. Prices may vary. Tax may apply. Code 5908
CARRYOUT OR DELIVERY Additional toppings extra.
LATE ©2014 Domino’s IP Holder LLC. Not valid with any other offer.
©2014 Domino’s IP Holder LLC. Not valid with any other offer.
1 LARGE ANY WAY! Large 1-Topping Pizza Choose any style with any toppings
Roger Lewis, your local Domino’s Manager STORE LOCATION
STORE LOCATION
000-000-000 ORDER NOW AT DOMINOS.COM
2 LARGE
Minimum Purchase required for delivery. Delivery charge may apply. Limited delivery areas.
Large 3-Topping Pizza & Marbled 2-Topping CookiePizzas Brownie
13 99
$
Additional Toppings extra.
CODE 5364
LIMITED TIME OFFER
LIMITED TIME OFFER
Code 5909
Cash Value 1/20c. Prices may vary. Tax may apply.
CARRYOUT ONLY Additional toppings extra.
Valid with coupon only at participating stores.
STORE LOCATION
Valid with coupon only at participating stores.
Maitland 000-000-000 1510 S Orlando Ave.
The African and African American Studies (AAAS) minor offers students a multidisciplinary look at an often underappreciated topic. Nia Morgan
Writer
The African and African American Studies (AAAS) Minor was started at Rollins in 1986 as a way to merge the expertise of the anthropology and modern language departments, creating an interdisciplinary program where students could explore African and African-American cultures and their impact on the Western World. Since then, the AAAS program has expanded its curriculum to offer numerous courses over a variety of departments including History, Music, Religion, Media, and Sociology. This is a minor that strives hard to embody Rollins’ mission of being a global, culturally aware citizen—and it deserves to be celebrated. Dr. Tonia Warnecke, a professor of the minor, is the Program Director of the Social Entrepreneurship Major and Minor underneath the Business Department. Her area of concentration is Economics with a focus on gender and international development. Dr. Warnecke became interested in African American studies after taking a trip to Budapest in her junior year of her undergrad as a political science major. Getting to know more about other cultures sparked her interest in other developing nations, including many of the states in Africa. Next semester, Warnecke will continue to offer SEB 220: Global Development Challenges, “which allows students to specialize in a developing country of their choice for various projects in the class. Students could focus on a country in Africa for the semester, and would learn about social, economic, and political outcomes in Africa compared to other world regions.” Dr. Shan-Estelle Brown, an Anthropology professor, is new to our Rollins faculty. She is a medical anthropologist with a second interest in the teaching of writing in anthropology. Since her arrival, she has been overwhelmed with the friendliness of
the students, staff, and faculty at Rollins. Next semester, she will be teaching GBH 200: Introduction to Public Health, where students can learn about infectious and chronic diseases at the population level and public health responses in the United States to keep communities healthy. The course also touches on this topic in relation to the broader topic of environmental health. Dr. Brown will also be teaching a new course called ANT 305 Drugs, Sex, and HIV as well as an rFLA 100-level course involving social media. Dr. Matthew Nichter, a professor in the Sociology Department, also teaches in the minor. He believes that “Sociology helps us understand the causes of racial inequality” and looks forward to teaching a course on the Civil Rights Movement in the spring. Our last spotlight in the minor is Professor Victoria Brown, who is another new addition to our Rollins Faculty. Professor Brown is from the Caribbean and a creative writer currently teaching ENG 140: Writing About the Caribbean, ENG 200: Creative Non-Fiction, and ENG 300: Creative Fiction. She is looking forward to teaching a Trans-Lit course about Caribbean Fiction next semester as well as ENG 167 and ENG 300: Creative Non-Fiction. Professor Brown has also written a book called Minding Ben. It tells the story of a Caribbean immigrant who moves to Crown Heights in New York and explores the relationship she shares with people in her West Indian community. Minding Ben also explores the development of one’s ethnic culture at home and overseas. One of the things that Rollins really emphasizes to all its students is the ability to find where you belong while exploring your academic and career choices. Students still seeking a place on campus should consider an African and African American Studies Minor.
Page 7 • FEATURES
Thursday, October 6, 2016
Protecting Florida’s wildlife Ellie Rushing
Writer
The Florida Wildlife Corridor is a conservation organization centered around protecting and preserving the lands, bodies of water, and animals that ultimately define a significant portion of “Wild Florida.” In January 2012, the first expedition to travel across this corridor was launched by the organization. Active conservationist Mallory Lykes Dimmit, bear biologist Joe Guthrie, and photojournalist Carlton Ward traveled through swamps and rivers on the ultimate trek from the Everglades to the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge in Georgia—covering 1,000 miles in 100 days. Three years later, in January 2015, the group gathered enough courage and devotion to the project to make a similar 1,000-mile adventure, this time from central
Florida through Big Bend and the Florida panhandle, and finally concluding the trip at Gulf Islands National Seashore. The team experienced intense terrain and weather with temperatures dropping down to 18 degrees; however, in a testament of will, they completed this mission in only 70 days. By combining the professionally taken shots with somehomemade Go-Pro footage, the expedition group was able to capture the raw, natural beauty of Florida’s wildlife within the corridor and beyond in a documentary, The Forgotten Coast. Rollins was lucky enough to host a showing of the film on Wednesday, September 28 in Bush Auditorium, not only exposing students to the wilderness areas Floridians take for granted but also showing them how close all of these natural wonders are to our campus. The event was hosted by the Environ-
mental Studies department on campus, which was able to bring expedition coordinator and leader Mallory Lykes Dimmit to the event. Completely open to questions about her trek, career, and overall involvement in the environmental field, Dimmit sent a strong message to the audience about the importance of conserving these Florida lands and encouraging everyone to explore the Corridor on their own. Florida Wildlife Corridor provided pamphlets and small posters with information on how to work in tandem with their mission statement and “Wild Florida” in general. Tying in key ideas from the film and Mallory’s speech, five main points stand out when looking to connect with Florida’s natural environment: Raise Awareness: Inform your friends how beautiful Florida is—and how threatened it re-
mains. Florida Wildlife Corridor encourages everybody to follow their social media groups and weekly newsletters for important information! Support Florida agriculture: By purchasing locally-grown produce, you can help support more than 47,000 farms that stretch across our state. Keeping local businesses running is more sustainable for Florida’s people and wildlife. Always look for the “Fresh from Florida” label. Advocate for positive legislation: Stay up-to-date on the legislation being passed or up for voting each period. By understanding how our Florida Legislators influence the environment, you can make a positive difference in the outcome of elections. These legislators need to hear from real people like you who actually care, so call or write to them and let them know you support Florida Forever’s funding.
Support Florida greenways and trails: The number of protected multi-use trails throughout areas like the Florida Wildlife Corridor is incredible. These trails are there for a reason and need to be used for funding to remain. Immerse yourself in Nature: Get outside! Hike a trail or paddle through a natural spring; Florida has so many unique types of wildlife and terrain that are just begging for you to visit. The best way to learn is to experience. The Forgotten Coast was created with more than the idea of showing viewers the amazing trip this group experienced. Its creators want viewers to care, become involved, and actively pursue protecting Florida. Visit www.floridawildlifecorridor.org for more information and detailed ways to involve yourself in the cause.
X-Club holds first annual “Bullathon” X-Club hosted its first annual “Bullathon” on September 29 to benefit Habitat for Humanity and the OneOrlando Fund. The event proved a great success despite less-than-stellar weather. Manny Rodriguez
Photo by Victoria Villavicencio
Writer
Last Thursday, local fraternity X-Club had its first annual “Bullathon” fundraiser. They kept their hopes up and looked to the sky, believing they would have a great time in Florida’s weather. Unfortunately—as we all know—Florida can be very temperamental. The day started off with huge dark clouds covering the sky, followed by a lightning strike near campus. X-Club member John Henry ‘18 said, “I was terrified, but even though the clouds were gray and it said zero chance for sunshine during the event hours, we still wanted to do what we can to help raise money for our charities: Habitat for Humanity and The OneOrlando Fund.” Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit Christian ministry that builds with people in need regardless of race or religion. They welcome volunteers and supporters from all backgrounds and have more than 1,400 local members in the United States and more than 70 national organizations around the world. Together, they have helped seven
million people improve their living conditions since their founding in 1976. The OneOrlando Fund is a nonprofit organization meant to aid victims in the aftereffects of the Pulse shooting, set up by Mayor Buddy Dyer and managed by the OneOrlando Fund Board, representing the diversity of Orlando, including those in the Hispanic and LGBT+ communities. The organization is committed to being open and transparent, and provides opportunities for public input and for each victim to have a private meeting with someone if they so choose. Aditionally, The OneOrlando Fund is committed to passing on 100% of all money raised directly to victims’ families and survivors. Luckily, the weather cleared up as the bull arrived and the grill was starting to get heated. Prayers were answered as people lined up to ride the bull and buy t-shirts in support of both organizations. Everyone had a great time playing music, tossing a football, and enjoying the irresisti-bull smell of hot dogs. Don’t miss out on future on-campus events like this that will help our community and our world!
Thursday, October 6, 2016
Page 8 • SPORTS
Remembering José HOME GAMES Fernández WOMEN’S SOCCER
All home games at Barker Family Stadium
After his tragic death on Sunday, Sept. 25, the world remembers the short but vibrant life of Marlins pitcher José Fernández.
10/15 Nova Southeastern @ 7 pm 10/26 Palm Beach Atlantic @ 7 pm
MEN’S SOCCER
All home games at Barker Family Stadium 10/8 Barry @ 7 pm 10/19 Lynn @ 7 pm 10/26 Eckerd @ 7 pm 10/29 Embry-Riddle @ 7pm
VOLLEYBALL
All home games at Alfond Sports Center 10/7 Florida Southern @ 7 pm 10/8 Eckerd (Parents’ Day) @ 4 pm 10/28 Tampa @ 7 pm 10/29 Saint Leo @ 4 pm Photo courtesy of Fox Sports
Ellie Rushing
Writer
In the early morning of September 25, 2016, the world of sports lost an iconic figure. José Fernández, at just 24 years old, fell victim to a tragic boating accident off the coast of Miami Beach, Florida where he and two friends crashed into an unseen jetty. The Miami Marlins pitcher was an inspiration to many when it came to perseverance and strength— not only on the field, but also in his personal life. Fernández was born in Santa Clara, Cuba under communist rule and attempted to escape the island but failed three separate times, each capture resulting in serving time in prison for “being a traitor to Fidel Castro.” At the age of 15, José was finally able to successfully defect from the country by boat across the Gulf of Mexico. After saving his mother from drowning amid the rough waters of the Gulf excursion, the two were eventually reunited with his father and free to start a new life in the United States. After José played four years of varsity baseball for Brauilo Alanso High School, the Marlins
offered him a $2 million signing bonus as he was beginning minor league play. After only one year in the minors, Fernández began his career in the majors and was named the 2013 National League Rookie of the Year. His ability to rise up against the negativity around him was a skill learned young and is what fueled him forward into three successful years with the MLB. Although his career was stolen from him at an early age, many say José Fernández had the potential to be a Hall of Famer. His 2014 and 2015 seasons were cut short due to arm injuries, but the beginning of this 2016 season was highlighted by incredible statistics—averaging 12.5 strikeouts per 9 innings, the fifth-best average in major league history. The point in Fernández’s history that really stood out was when he hit his first major-league home run. The young athlete was shocked by his accomplishment and stood at the plate to watch his ball soar over the left field fence. This action set the opposing team over the edge and managed to clear the benches, creating an incredible brawl in the middle of the game.
After reflecting on his actions and understanding where he went wrong, Fernández became a model for playing the game “the right way.” He recognized that the league he was playing in was no longer high school and claimed, “This is a professional game, and we should be professional players.” From then on, the right-handed pitcher continued to blast homers and trot the bases, but with a simple smile on his face— a smile all should remember him for. When you grow up in a communist state, are imprisoned three times before the age of 15, and abandon your life to start over hundreds of miles away, suddenly, standing on a mound in front of thousands doesn’t seem so overwhelming. Taken from the world far too young, José Fernández was unable to complete some personal goals and break all of the records most professional athletes set out to break. However, he chose to tackle the life and career he was gifted with grace and poise, setting standards high and shaping the name of the game for future athletes around the world.
WE’RE HIRING FREELANCE WRITERS STAFF WRITERS GRAPHIC DESIGNERS COPY EDITORS SECTION EDITORS PHOTOGRAPHERS ILLUSTRATORS AD REPRESENTATIVES APPLY AT: thesandspur.org/join-staff Open meetings are held every Monday at 6 p.m. on the 5th floor of the Mills Building.