The Claw Magazine (Vol. 1 / Issue 1) by The Claw Magazine

Downtown Greeley Bar Hop

AT THESE BARS WITH YOUR STUDENT ID

About the Claw

From The Editor’s Desk:

I cannot count the number of times I have answered the question: “Why on earth would you start a magazine?” Before this process began, I would have answered that question differently. I would have said something about UNC needing more diverse publications or how fun a college entertainment magazine could be. However, I found the most rewarding aspect of this magazine can’t be found on its pages. The most amazing thing to happen with this magazine is its effects on the staff. The collaborative efforts and risk factors, such as the risk of not meeting the print deadline, brought out the best in everyone involved. One of the youngest writers went from feeling completely discouraged to, after some advising, having an epiphany about her article, and then coming back a few days later with a fantastic piece. (See “The Most Chaotic Entertainment at UNC,” page 6.) A photographer with acute social anxiety overcame his nerves and returned from a bar opening with a hint of self-satisfaction in his voice and more than 60 images on his camera. Our cover model, who 30 minutes earlier had told us she had no idea how to pose for photos, climbed a metal archway in her

5-inch heels and laughed as she performed as if she were in the finals for “America’s Next Top Model.” So when people ask me why I started a magazine, I should tell them it wasn’t just me. I should tell them I had an idea, and a group of incredible people created a magazine. Instead of asking why, the skeptics should be asking how: How will I ever thank the people who made that idea a reality? The writers and editors have worked so hard to create the content of the magazine, staying late and coming in on weekends to perfect their work. I especially have to thank Advertising Director David Cornelius and his advertising representatives, as well as Graphic Design Chief Anna Thompson and her lone design assistant, Steffanie Sperry. Every member of The Claw’s staff is important, but without David and Anna, there would be no magazine. David is the reason we can afford to print, and Anna is the reason we have any pages to print. There are two more people without whom this magazine would not exist. Our two advisers gave students such as David and Anna the guidance they needed to become the magazine superstars they are today. The lessons I learned from them are the only reasons I can call myself an editor. I cannot imagine how this publication would look (or fail to look) without Dr. Lee Anne Peck and Dr. Lynn KlydeSilverstein. Finally, huge thanks are due to our advertisers, who had the faith to invest in a first-run student magazine. Thank you so much for believing in us! I can only hope that future issues will bring together as many great people as this one has.

Jaidree Braddix

STAFF

Editor in Chief: Jaidree Braddix Assistant Editor: Megan Lenhausen Production Manager: Laura Vallen

Graphic Design Chief: Anna Thompson Assistant Designer: Steffanie Sperry Advertising Director: David Cornelius Copy Editors: Allison Samuel Khalie Shields

Writers: Jamie Arterburn Ashley Biggers Shelby Foster Devaughn Morgan Megan Presler Darion Ramos Allison Samuel Alexandria Sterling Laura Vallen Photographers: Zachary Clements Megan Randle Natalie Stacker

Advertising Representatives: Alexandria Farmerwaters Jonathan Hebrink Megan Presler Kaitlin Sorensen Editorial Adviser: Dr. Lynn Klyde-Silverstein Advertising Adviser: Dr. Lee Anne Peck

Whats Inside: On the cover:

Amoni Ashby

explains her love of making clothes, running track and helping impoverished children... p. 16

“You Know You’re a Bear When...” Students tell The Claw about the joys and hardships of being a UNC student... p. 11

Going Green with The Student LEAF

A student organization is working to save UNC’s campus and the environment... p. 20

Arts:

Danny Tramel: Featured Artist from UNC’s Open Mic Night... p. 4

Dance Saved Carissa Tobias’s Life and Introduced her to the Yin Yang Twins... p. 22 Bear Necessities:

Advice for Incoming Freshmen... p. 28 Delicious, Healthy Recipes Any College Student Can Cook... p. 31

Want to Work For the Claw? http://www. uncclawmagazine.com/ workfortheclaw.html

Open Mic Night Featured Artist: Danny Tramel by Shelby Foster

Photo by Tjasha Dianne

he University Center’s Fireside Lounge plays finalist at the American Country Star competition. It host to the University Program Council event wasn’t simply talent that brought this artist to where Open Mic Night every other he is today, it was good old-fashioned Monday at 9 p.m. This popular hard work. He wasn’t handed his dream. event packs the house with a “Do it for the music, He had to fight for it. regular attendance of 200 students. When Tramel picked up a guitar and not for any other started singing in grade school, he The students sip on refreshments provided by Starbucks while wasn’t thinking of fame. He got into reason.” musicians, singers and slam poets music “to impress the ladies.” With provide the entertainment. time, he found it was something he was One of the students to grace the Open Mic Night sincerely passionate about. stage is Danny TraA hard-working, determined mindset is something mel. Tramel, a senior that set Tramel apart from his many competitors. classical guitar and Tramel explained that several scouts at the competimusic education tions wanted to sign artists not for their talent, but major, said he takes for the “look” they projected. He wasn’t willing to be as much pride in who someone’s puppet. he shares the stage “Do it for the music, not for any other reason,” Trawith as he does in mel says. his own accomplishIf the music scouts at his competitions did not want ments in music. him for his talent then they could not have him at all. Tramel’s accom Tramel would like to be famous one day, but if that plishments are a lot doesn’t happen he will not give up his love of music. to be proud of. He “Keep doing it because you love the music,” Tramel was a state finalist at says. the Texaco Country Tramel’s involvement with open mic night is one Showdown in 2008 of those things he continues to do because he loves and 2009. In 2010, the music. He also sees how much talent is at UNC. Photo by Natalie Stacker he Tramel says he loves thst open mic night allows him Danny Tramel performs almost every went a step further to “be able to participate with such a talented group of Monday at UNC’s Open Mic Night. and was a national people.” v

The Art Vandelay by

Aaron

Experience

Artzer

rom block parties to festivals to the local bars, it is not hard to find your dose of live music in Greeley. But the best live bands can be hard to find. They can be tucked away in the basement of some local bar that offers nothing but a stage. Some of the most passionate musicians perform in these hole-in-the-wall bars. Last year I was lucky enough to come across a band called Art Vandelay. They were playing at A.F. Rays, a “barcade” just off UNC’s campus. The name caught my attention and made me laugh; it was an obvious homage to the TV sitcom “Seinfeld”. This indie/rock/punk band entered the stage equipped

with a rather short playlist because they were just the opening act for another band, but the three or four songs Art Vandelay played made the night. They set the tone for the headlining band. Less than a month later, I saw Art Vandelay again at another music venue, The Bananza, in Cheyenne, Photo by Aaron Artzer. Art Vandelay members Cody Caudill, Hank Navarre Wyo. I beand Ian Judd came more show. The band’s line-up Rays in October 2012 with familiar with the musiconsists of four memThe Epilogues, another cians in the band after this bers: Henry popular local band. The Navarre, two bands really fed off of vocals/bass; each other’s energy. This Cody Caudill, time, Art Vandelay had a guitar/vocals; more substantial set list. Ian Judd, Many of the songs had the keyboard; and electronic theme of alterChris Briardy, native music intertwined drums. with of classic rock chords Caudill says and choked out by power the band is chords during the bridge. influenced and I have yet to be disapinspired by pointed by any of Art The Beatles, Vandelay’s performances. Smashing I highly recommend the Pumpkins, experience to anyone that Jack White, loves the synergy of a live My Chemical gig; these guys will give Romance, The you just that. This band is Strokes and proof that you never know Motion City where you will find a band soundtrack. that will blow you away. v The band rePhoto by Aaron Artzer. (Left to right) Cody Caudill, Hank Navarre and Ian Judd turned to A.F. 5

UNC Theater

The Most Chaotic Entertainment at UNC on Campus

mprovisation, or “improv,” is a performance art form that is often overlooked, but not at UNC. As of the 2012-2013 academic year, the acting improv group Chaos is a university-chartered organization. They put on two shows every month and have raised $800 charity. Chaos was started 10 years ago as a small student project. The group is made up of nine performers whose creativity is fueled by audience interaction and the performers’ imaginations. Each of their performances are unscripted and unrehearsed. Chandler Darby, a junior acting major at UNC and member of Chaos, says that even though the acts are not rehearsed, Chaos’s shows take a lot of preparation. “As a group, we flesh out ideas and brainstorm innovative ways to utilize improvisation through new and traditional games, original music and videos,” Darby says. “We also dedicate particular rehearsals to developing skill sets such as character development, scene maintenance, quick thinking, audience adaptation, group compatibility and so on. We take into account every aspect of each show and hope to evolve based on what proves to be effective material.” Unlike typical plays, Chaos’s shows involve the audience. A member of the improv group might ask for a specific word from the audience that another group member has to play off. The performers might also ask for a book title that’s never been

by Darion Ramos

Photo by Ben Stivers

Student actor Zach Taggart demonstrated the Chaos’s versitality in a Fight Club-esque promo for the improv group. written or something as simple as a type of environment. The group then has to work together and play off those words to satisfy the audience. Jessica Henderson, a senior acting student, says she loves being a part of Chaos. “I need to make people laugh! It fuels my existence,” Henderson says. “I’m like a fairy; if you don’t clap and believe, I will die.” Henderson and the rest of the group put on a show every other Sunday in Frasier 249 and the room is always packed. As the year goes on, they are looking to expand the performance venues. They recently performed at The Blue Mug (formerly Margie’s) on 16th Street. But the group is about more than laughter and crowded theaters. Chaos has been raising money for fresh water wells in India for nearly a year. To date, they have raised $800 and hope to hit their goal of $1,000. They have raised this money through donations even though their on-campus shows are free admission. Photo by Chaos has made improvisational theater accessible to UNC students and helped bring clean water to people who desperateBen Stivers Chaos actors Jessica Henderson and Arielle Yoder ly need it. As this group continues, they’re hoping to perform in more venues and give all of Greeley access to this unique had audience members laughing with a round of type of entertainment. v survivor, an acting improvisation game.

Women Rule: The Bard is feminized in Queen Lear by Sarah Moe

hakespeare’s “King Lear,” the story of an aging ruler’s descent into madness, was given a feminized spin for UNC’s production of Queen Lear this November. As the title suggests, the title role has been altered from male to female, but the ruler is not the only gender-swapped character. Gloucester, Edgar and Edmund are also women. The play has been reset in Celtic fifth century Scotland and set to music, with the actors singing songs in English and Gaelic. “Lear is my favorite play. I think Lear was the greatest play ever written,” says director David Grapes, who adapted the play with Robert Neblett. Grapes had seen Richard III performed with a woman in the lead role, but she dressed and acted like a man. He says he wanted a true regendering and was inspired by Shakespearean actress Lucy Peacock. Peacock, who is playing Lear in the show, has been involved from the start of the adaptation process. Peacock is known for her work with the Stratford Shakespeare Festival in Canada. Having a guest artist not only allows UNC students to experience a performance by one of the foremost Shakespearean actors working today, but it gives the studentactors in the show a chance to learn. Peacock is also teaching a master class while she is at UNC. Grapes has been working on Queen Lear for almost two years. The world of the play is very well developed. The setting, while fictional, is based on history and geography that really existed. For students who have never enjoyed Shakespeare in the classroom, Grapes says he suggests seeing it performed. “People sometimes get scared off by Shakespeare,” Grapes says. “Shakespeare was never intended to be read; it comes alive when it’s performed.” Megan Lloyd-Jones, who plays Goneril, one of Lear’s three daughters, says the adaptation will be more engaging for newcomers. “I think straight Shakespeare, it’s a little harder for the audience to access,” she says. Lloyd-Jones says she thinks the adaptation will be more engaging for audiences because, even though the language is the same, the audience will be transported to a new world. Grapes is aiming for the same idea. “It’s going to be really visually interesting,” Grapes says. “People won’t be expecting to see a world quite like this.” English professor Kristin Bovaird-Abbo says watching Shakespeare’s plays is how Shakespeare intended them to be enjoyed, but since he did not leave stage directions, the vision of the director and actors is always a new experience. As for adaptations, Bovaird-Abbo said that it forces groups to re-examine the values of their own cultures. “We’re doing just what Shakespeare did: taking old sources and transforming them into something new,” 7v Bovaird-Abbo says.

A Cold Weather Fashion Journal

by DeVaughn Morgan

he start of a new school year is the end of a great, sunny summer. We have to say “so long” to sandals and cute floral dresses and “hello” to warm scarfs and comfy sweaters to accommodate the cold weather. But don’t fret! This season will be as mesmerizing as summertime, with key fashion pieces that will be cozy for winter weather and cute for the college campus. more concerned about being comfortable in class and the library or you want to look sleek and stylish, leggings will work. No matter how you wear them, black leggings are easy and you can work to your own personal style. Knit Berets There’s something about the cold weather that causes us all to be less creative with our appearance. We don’t want to get dressed in the morning, let alone try and do our hair that will just be destroyed by Greeley winds. However, a knit beret is a quick fix to this problem.

Pullovers It’s sweater weather and nothing says that better than a warm pullover. This piece of clothing is essential to anyone’s winter wardrobe. UNC’s classrooms aren’t exactly the warmest but a light pullover is guaranteed to protect you from the cold and keep you stylish. Pea Coats There’s nothing a classic pea coat can’t be paired with. An animal print scarf and/or a knit beret are just a few accessories that can be added to a pea coat ensemble. You can also play around with different shades of scarves and hats . It’s nice to have a splash of color to brighten up the snowy days. Black Leggings Leggings can be worn with anything and are comfortable. Dress them up or dress them down, it doesn’t matter. Wear them with long layered t-shirts or an oversized cardigan. Whether you’re

Colored Skinny Jeans New season means updating your color scheme . Instead of light pastel colors, invest in dark, rich shades like burgundy or violet. Be careful how you wear your colored jeans because you don’t want them to clash with a bright sweater or a pea coat. Let your jeans be the statement piece

for your outfit. Dress them up for a fabulous date night or dress them down for school with sneakers and a UNC hoodie! Summer Dresses Colder weather doesn’t mean you have to hide your favorite summer dress in the closet, never to be retrieved again until April. Instead, pair that dress with some opaque black tights. For even more fun variety, wear a pullover or a blazer on top of your dress and a pair of stylish booties to finish off the look! Leather Moto Jackets If you’re looking to add a little edge to your wardrobe, try a leather jacket. You can also choose colors other than standard black. An off-white jacket keeps the daring look but doesn’t take away from your feminine style. To find your perfect jacket make sure to pay attention to the details because some have more zippers, snaps or even studs. A leather jacket can even work with your summer dress.

From Around Campus: Bear Expressions

Campus Complaints: Vent YOUR Frustration! by Lauren King

e've all been there. Neighbors play their music far too loud. The residents above you sound like theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re moving furniture 24 hours a day. Your roommate hasn't showered in a month. An unknown car sits in front of your house, and you have no place to park. You get frustrated - so frustrated, that you may feel compelled to write that person an anonymous note about their behavior. I've definitely felt that way. I've lived in the residence halls and disliked my neighbors who thought they were cool because they had am-

plifying speakers and wanted to shake the walls at 2:00 a.m. Newsflash: Waking people up from dreamland isn't nice. Knock it off! I now live in a house off campus, and a few weeks ago my roommate went out to her car early one morning and found a note on her windshield. It had a lot of exclamation marks and was written in hot pink pen. Classy. Apparently, our neighbors were unaware that we lived on the same street and have the right to park there too. According to the note, my roommate was basically an idiot for having a $300 parking pass and still parking a few blocks away from campus.

Unbeknownst to them, we have the right to park on our own street. Parking is just one of the many frustrations college students experience. Whether it's as big as obnoxiously loud neighbors or as little and annoying as the people who walk really slow and block the path when you're already RUNNING LATE to class (MOVE, people!), itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

bound to get on your nerves eventually. I urge anyone who has a campus complaint to send it in. You can send an anonymous picture of it happening, a written note or whatever you need to vent your frustration. Please scan or photograph your notes and email them to submissions@uncclawmagazine.com.

“You Know You’re a Bear When…”

he Claw went around campus and places in Greeley asking students and alumni to finish the sentence, “You know you’re a bear when…” with some fun and unique things about UNC and surrounding areas. This is what was gathered:

You Know You’re a Bear When…

The mode of transportation on campus. Photo by Colleen Allison

“...Avoiding sprinklers becomes a daily occurrence.” – Ben Warwick, 21, senior. “...You don’t even smell the cows anymore.” – Tyler Feldman, 21, senior. “...You save up all of your cash for Whiskey River on Wednesday nights.” –Jeff Burke, UNC alumni. “...You’re hung over Thursday morning from Whiskey River Wednesday nights.” –Victoria Enderlee, 24, senior. “...Greality becomes your reality and you wouldn’t have it any other way.” –Natasha Christine, 22, senior. “...You’re too drunk to care what our football score is, or even too drunk to know you’re at the football game.” –Casey Lee, public speaking TA. “...You know living in Greeley is pretty much the exact opposite of Hawaii.” – Dr. Michael Rhoads, 30, Psychology Professor. “...You get attacked by squirrels on campus.” – Amber Sandau, 23, former UNC student. “...You know someone or knew of

by Jamie Arterburn

someone that is living or has lived at The Grove.” – Jamie Juelfs, 23, graduate student. “...You go to support the football team, knowing we are going to lose.” –Nathan Eikenbary, 22, UNC alumni. “...You get pulled over on 85.” – Megan Presler, 21, senior. “...There are more people at your party than a football game.” –Paul Floistad, seventhyear student. “...You have all the restaurants on speed dial that The ever-changing tunnel under 11th Ave. deliver ‘til 2am Photo by Colleen Allison (DP Dough, Jimmy ready was.”—Anonymous. Johns, Silver Mine “...All you do is crave a Bazooka Subs, Cheba Hut…).” –Shelby Gasfrom Roma’s at the end of the day.” ner, 24, senior. –Jessica Garriott, 21, senior. “...You drink more on ‘Wasted “...You crave a chicken bacon Wednesday’ than you do your whole weekend.” –Aaron Artzer, 23, avocado croissant from the Coffee Corner and they are always out.” – senior. Jen Gamarano, 21, senior. “...A glass or plate breaks at the “...The business school is more dining hall and everyone busts out popular than the sports program.” in applause to make the situation even more embarrassing then it al- –Alyse DeVan, 21, junior. “...You know exactly what someone means when they say, ‘let’s go get drunk at The Box!’” –Marissa Flores, 21, senior. “...All your classes are in the prison cell that is the Candelaria classrooms.” –David Corneluis, 21, senior. “...Club sports are just as entertaining as athletic sponsored games.” –Ashley Reitz, 22, senior. “...You’re once a bear, always a bear.” –Paul Floistad, seventh-year student. v Squrriel!!!Photo by Colleen Allison

What She’s Wearing

Handmade cotton blouse by Amoni Ashby. Levi’s vest, bleached and distressed by Amoni’s little sister, Apeasha “DJ Caprice Klassic” Ashby, 17. Shorts by Amoni Ashby; made from jeans purchased at a thrift store, handcut and distressed. “Regular 50-cent stockings,” can be purchased at any department store. Shoes by Charlotte Russe, purchased on eBay.

What She’s Wearing

Handmade thin wool top by Amoni Ashby. Pants purchased at a small boutique in North Carolina. Handmade leather legwarmers by Amoni Ashby. Shoes by Steve Madden, purchased on eBay.

Q&A with Amoni Ashby: Finding Time for Fashion, Philanthropy and Olympic Golds by Laura Vallen “I’ll have what she ordered,” she said with a smile as she stood behind the Starbucks counter in the University of Northern Colorado’s University Center. She rode her bike three miles in the pouring rain just to meet with me and giggled as she wiped a droplet off the tip of her nose. Amoni Ashby is an Olympic hopeful, a clothing designer and – get this – a UNC student!

Ashby is a sophomore sprinter and hurdler on UNC’s track and field team. She has a long list of goals for the near future and even bigger dreams she plans on living out further down the road. For instance, Amoni hopes her track and field career will lead her to the Olympics for a chance to win a gold medal or two. She sees her future-self as a clothing designer and plans on changing the world by creating a non-profit foundation to serve under-privileged children. She has an eye for beauty and a desire to create. I sat down with her to talk about these goals, dreams and aspirations, and ask her where she finds the time.

Why? I hope to get out of college and become a designer of athletic clothing. I hope SES can give me a deeper look into the body and clothing.

Why did you pick UNC?

Do you make a lot of clothes? I’ve made 65% percent of my wardrobe.

Where is your hometown?

I am a traveler. The last place I lived was Charlotte, N.C. My dad is in the air force so we traveled a lot. I don’t really have a hometown necessarily. God, ultimately! I was an underrated athlete. Senior year when the big schools started recruiting, UNC was the only school that saw me past the paper. God set it up in a way where this school just fell in my lap.

When did you start running track?

I started running in eighth grade for Liberty Middle School. I started running the last couple meets in eighth grade actually. I remember I would always smile at the camera. When I was running the 200 on the curve I would turn and smile right at the camera.

Why did you start track? I liked racing boys.

What’s your major?

What was the first piece of clothing you made?

Sock dresses for my Barbie dolls. I would cut them up and put bows on them or make them into a halter-top.

Why did you start making clothes?

I like how I can literally touch creation. Like physically touch it. Anything I can think about, I can make. I really like the movement of fabric. It’s so free.

Do you actually sew all your clothes together on your own? Yes! I don’t use patterns. Someone told me I was crazy. I’ll take something someone has on and take a mental picture, then go buy fabric. I see what I saw in my head and literally flip it inside out and sew it. If it doesn’t work, I can always rip the seam out and start over.

“I like how I can literally touch creation. Like physically touch it.”

What inspires your designs?

A lot of times men’s clothing does. I love the bulk look of men’s clothing. It’s in your face and says what needs to be said in moderation. It’s kind of modest while women’s clothing is more toward the sexual outlook of the body, the figure and outline and what is going to make your breasts and booty look good. There is nothing wrong with that but, hey! Men’s clothing has more of an artistic value.

“I like to wear things other people want to wear but are too scared of would you what other How describe your people might style? Eccentric, bohethink if they mian, daring. I like to wear things other wear it.” people want to wear

Sports and exercise science.

sensual. Sexual is more playing towards the body and what it wants - your desires. Sensual is beautiful and erotic but you can’t touch it.

but are too scared of what other people might think if they wear it. I’d say a tad bit sensual. I believe there is a fine line between being sexual and being

What are some reactions of people when they see you in your clothes?

In a party setting, people say, “Oh my gosh! I love your style. I wish I could pull it off. Where did you get that from? You make your own clothes? That’s so cool!” It almost bothers me when people say, “I wish I could pull it off.” You can pull that off!

Do you make clothes for other people?

I do. I have made a homecoming dress before. I have made vintage shorts because they are really in right now. I’ll thrift and get old mom jeans and cut and bleach them the way I want them. I could literally play dress up in my own closet for hours and that would be the fun of the night. I wouldn’t have to go out or anything.

Who is your favorite designer?

Vera Wang makes a lot of wedding dresses and I like the way they look. Sometimes I’ll make a maxi dress from a design that looks like hers, but as far as following designers, I don’t really do that. I kind of just create. I don’t want my creation to be taken from something someone else has already done.

Where do you like to shop?

I like to thrift. I usually have a general idea of what I want to wear. If I see an outfit in my mind, I have to go get it that day or it will drive me crazy. I dress off emotions! If

I feel like a rebel I’ll wear heels, ripped up tights, and high wasted shorts. I dress off how I feel. When I get really mad, I mad shop! I have to admit it, it’s my curse.

Favorite online store?

Ebay like a mother sucker! I’ve bought studded booties for $32.00. I know what I want and I find it. I go to some underground stores sometimes, but I usually just search what I want and then buy it from that store instead of just shopping at a store I like.

“I dress off emotions! If I feel like a rebel I’ll wear heels, ripped up tights, and high wasted shorts. I dress off how I feel.”

What do you want to do when you graduate?

I want to start a non-profit mobile rehabilitation center where I go to them instead of them coming to me. I want to help kinds in the ghetto and the projects or any kids who don’t have enough money to get back to where they used to be. I know someone who was shot and they didn’t have enough money to get treated to get back where they were. It’s saddening to watch. I want to help out in that aspect, be there for them mentally, spiritually and physically. In order to heal the body, you have to heal the mind first. I want to start that process. I also want to design athletic clothing if my Olympic dreams don’t come through. I would want to get my name big enough to design my own clothing, but if I could get under Nike or Brooks, it would be really great to have my name under a bigger brand like that. I’ve drawn and sketched out a bunch of things I want to make.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? At the Olympics with my family! Or actually after the Olympics with a couple silver medals, maybe golds, sitting on the counter, on the table, in the living room, in the new house that I bought my family. Hopefully married. I’m such a kiss-up for love.

Who is your inspiration? Role Model?

My mom and my dad. My dad is a wonderful person to talk to and to observe. He doesn’t talk much but when he does he has something great to say. My mommy, she’s knowledge. She is performance. She is everything that I strive to learn. She is a scholar. She taught me how to love learning, not the idea of where learning gets you. She is a beautiful, genuine person that will tell you how it is. She instilled God in me and I appreciate it. She helped me realize where God set me up to be mentally.

What are some of the challenges you have faced as a designer?

Coming to the realization that my clothes aren’t Photos by Natalie Stacker going to fit a mainstream Ashby said her favorite thing she had ever made is this black and white dress, because, “It fits my body individual, accepting the so nicely.” fact that I don’t want to play into what’s average. I don’t want to be the now. I feel like I’m doing something. Not want to be forever. I want people to everyone has the same view I do. re-wear it, change it and reverse it. I want to be in the world, not just of it. I think that is why my clothWhat is your favorite thing ing stands out so much. My fashion you have ever made? is speaking volumes for what I This black and white, long choose not to say. sleeved, v-neck dress. It fits my body so nicely. Where do you find time? Weekends, nighttime, sudden Why do you think you love urges, I just do it before my homeclothes so much? work. Sometimes I think about it I wouldn’t say I’m closed off but first and find my fabric and then a I’m very observant. When I get few weeks later I’ll sit down and do dressed I want to portray a certain it when I find the time. v message for myself. I get dressed for myself. When I get dressed I 19

Campus Turns Over a New Leaf

by Megan Lenhausen

Photo by Natalie Stacker (left to right) Patrick Hogan, Joseph Shoemaker, Brent Engel, Konrad Schlarbaum, William Woods, Nick Loveridge, Kaitlin Spring and Christi Knapp. According Student LEAF resource efficiency and Grant Coordinator Wilenvironmental awareliam Woods, every UNC ness for the University of student has the power to Northern Colorado. change their campus and Student Senate and the their world. Board of TrustWoods says “...Whether they ees for UNC he wants to passed what see our stubegan as an have somedent body thing to say or environmental become earth sciences more ecoseminar not, whether senior friendly. project, and this they want to school project He wants students to became somerealize they get involved or thing larger. The have an im- just want to be mission of the pact on the Student LEAF is there.” world and to make UNC a big changes more environcan happen as a result. mentally friendly camThe Student LEAF, or pus. Green funds, such Student Leadership for as the Student LEAF, are Environmental Action prominent on many colFund, is an organization lege campuses, especially to empower students in in Colorado. Woods, who moving the campus com- has always considered munity toward a more himself an environmensustainable culture. The tal enthusiast, decided it Student LEAF promotes was time to bring envi-

ronmental awareness to dents’ opinions,” Woods the UNC community. says. “We are studentThe Student LEAF is funded and I think funded by a $10 everybody’s fee attached kind of sick to the tuition being put “I want to hear of of every fullin the dark time student, with organistudents’ and an extra zations and opinions.” $1.50 per credit where their hour for partstudent fees time students. are going.” This semester The Stualone, Student LEAF was dent Leaf staff is takgranted about $102,800. ing big strides to keep By the end of the Spring students involved. The 2013 semester, the orgaorganization’s meetings nization’s leaders plan to are at 5:30 p.m. every have roughly $210,000 to Wednesday night in the fund eco-friendly projStudent Activities Office. ects on UNC’s campus. At these meetings, projBecause funding for ect ideas are discussed the Student LEAF comes and students’ voices are from students, the orgaheard. The meetings are nization’s members firm- times for students to ly believe all proposals share their ideas about for project ideas should what needs to change come from UNC students, on campus for UNC to be faculty and staff. more environmentally “I want to hear stuefficient.

“We will be there and there is a 1,000 watt solar On November 9, 2012, proposals submitted by we want to hear from system on top of McKee the Student LEAF will November 14, 2012, the everybody, whether they and Butler Hancock is be holding an event on first project voted on by have something to say or LEED certified, which campus the end not, whether they want to means the building was to emphaof the get involved or just want built in an incredibly ensize these Fall 2012 “I don’t want any- semester to be there,” Woods says. vironmentally conscious changes and The Student LEAF ofmanner. North and South increase stuand then fers students the opHalls are very close to dent involve- one to be upset with approved portunity to control how becoming LEED certified, ment and the way his or her by the Stutheir money is spent. which is an impressive awareness. dent LEAF money is spent.” counThe students and faculty feat. In spring have already proposed Many students may also of 2013, cil and several projects, such as: be unaware that recycling the Student facilities solar panel canopies over is available on campus LEAF will also be sponmanagement soon after. parking lots, micro wind for both students who soring “Green Week,” Ideally, the first project turbines over the UC, a live on campus and those during which events such would begin at the start more efficient sprinkler who don’t. Students are as concerts and bicycle of the Spring 2013 sesystem, additional soable to recycle anything, races will take place to mester. lar panels on buildings, with the sole exclusion of heighten eco-awareness. “I think it will be a long composting projects and pizza boxes. Additionally, The Student LEAF is process,” Woods says. recycling payment on “We’re just starting out, campus. There are many but we’re making big more ways UNC can strides with every step.” become environmentally Woods and the rest of friendly and members the Student LEAF staff of the Student LEAF are have a remarkable vision hoping students will for the initiative. Though jump on board. the process will be a long “I don’t want anyone to journey, the student body, be upset with the way his UNC’s campus and the or her money is spent,” earth will benefit from Woods says. “It’s only ten the changes to come. dollars, but I want people There is a passion that to be proud of that ten lies within the Student dollars. I want people to LEAF staff, a passion they see change with that ten hope will spread to the (left to right; Top row) Joseph Shoemaker, Konrad dollars. That is my bigUNC student body, staff Schlarbaum, Brent Engel and Patrick Hogan. gest concern.” and faculty. (Bottom row) Nick Loveridge, Kaitlin Spring, Christi The Student LEAF “I talk to everyone Knapp and William Woods. focuses its efforts on the about Student LEAF needs and wants of the because I want to,” Woods UNC commudining services new to campus this sesays. “It’s something I’m nity. mester, but it is dedicated really proud of. I want “I talk to has started a “Community outside to making changes as other people to be really everyone garden is a huge part of Holmes Dining soon as possible. proud that it’s something of the environ- about Student Hall to conserve The Student LEAF staff our campus is working mental moveresources. hopes to have all project toward.” v ment,” Woods LEAF because I Members of Like Student LEAF on Facebook: says. “If you Student want to.” the have a strong LEAF are strivFacebook.com/studentleaf. community, ing to bring you are goawareness to ing to have local conthe steps the univerInterested in submitting a project prosciousness. We want fun sity is already taking. projects that get people They hope to take these posal or getting involved with Student involved.” changes even further. LEAF? UNC’s campus has “I feel like that is the already received several perfect way to start out: eco-friendly make-overs. by bringing awareness Attend a Student LEAF meeting Most of the campus’s light to what the campus has 5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays in the Student bulbs have been switched already done,” Woods to more efficient bulbs, says. Activities Office (located in the UC). 21

Dancing Through Life How Music and Movement Saved Her Life and Introduced Her to the Yin Yang Twins by Jaidree Braddix

orthern Colorado Dance Fusion’s location is not glamorous. It occupies a small space wedged between Pita Pit and Gwen’s Salon at the Hillside Shopping Center in Greeley. But for UNC students and Greeley community members alike, Dance Fusion offers something much bigger than its real estate. Inside, the studio’s walls are purple and blue and covered with inspirational quotes such as “In a world where you can be anything, be yourself,” and “Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” The front desk is a glass display case filled with size 4½ ballet and tap shoes, brightly flowered headbands and Dance Fusion T-shirts. Dance fusion owner and former UNC student Carissa Tobias, 23, has a personality to match the décor of her studio. She spends 90 percent of her day wearing a genuine, ear-to-ear smile and will tell anyone who will listen that positive thoughts and thankfulness are the keys to success. Carissa says she believes in the tenet, “What you fear you draw near,” which means constantly talking about negative things will bring about negative events. Thinking positively and appreciating the things one has, however, will bring about positive events.

Most people who have experienced the things Carissa has would find it impossible to be so upbeat. She lost her father at age 5, and for the past 10 years she has struggled with Crohn’s Disease, a debilitating illness that has no known cure. “Dance has literally saved my life,” Carissa says. “It’s what I live for.” When Carissa was 5, her father committed suicide, and she coped through dance. She put on dance shows after dinner every night at her grandmother’s house because the shows helped her express herself and she thought it was the best thing she could do to uplift her family. Now that she owns her own studio, she can inspire even more people.

Unlike most dance studios, the primary goal at Dance Fusion is not getting the students to memorize a routine to perform at a recital once a year, it is teaching them skills they will have for life. “It’s more of a training studio,” Carissa says. “I want my students to learn the techniques and how to put themselves into the dance, not just do the routine.” Carissa teaches hip hop, jazz and tap for all ages, as well as a “hottie heels” class for adults. Other instructors at the studio offer ballet and Zumba lessons, and Carissa recently hired a yoga instructor, Shirley Smithson, who will begin teaching in January. “I’m really excited about working with [Carissa],” Shirley says. “I think there’s some really great energy here.” Besides the general classes, Carissa also offers private lessons. She has assisted dance majors at UNC with choreography and techniques for their final performances as well as helped students of all ages prepare for auditions. One student who takes private lessons every week is Paige Russel, 13, who Carissa calls her “little hip hop prodigy.” “Carissa is my favorite dancer, teacher, mentor and… what else? There’s more,” Paige says. “I want to go to Millennium and dance like her. She inspires me.” By “Millennium,” Paige means Millennium Dance Complex in Los Angeles where Carissa trains with the biggest names in the business, including the stars of Step Up, Revolution. She has received several offers for music video contracts and even performed as the opening act for the Yin Yang Twins. Her friends might not understand why it has taken her so long to consider moving to Los Angeles and leave her little studio in Greeley, but she loves teaching as much as she loves the Hollywood glam. Carissa is proof that you don’t have to be in the city of dreams to live your dream. And those “Hollywood types” at Millennium Dance Complex have recognized that, too.

Millennium produced a threepart video series, “Saved by Dance, Carissa Tobias’s Story,” in which Carissa talks about the death of her father, her struggles with Crohn’s disease and her experiences dancing and performing in Los Angeles. The effects are simple and the background music is minimal, but the words are incredibly inspirational. (Watch the full series at facebook.com/dancemillenium.) As described in the video, Carissa was 13 when she was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, which affects her digestive system, spine and eyes and keeps her in the hospital for periods of weeks or months. At one point, she was hospitalized for 270 days. Most recently, she spent two weeks in the hospital dealing with the corrosive effects of the disease. The disease literally eats away at the intestines, creating scar tissue than can turn into painful blockages that need to be surgically removed. “The only way I can deal with it is to smile,” Carissa says. “I don’t like to show my pain on the outside at all.”

Carissa says she believes that smiling has helped. She says positive thinking and thankfulness are true magic, and it’s difficult to argue with her. It seems like “true magic” for the owner of tiny studio in Greeley to spend an occasional weekend in L.A., learning choreography and filming music videos with the likes of Kenny Wormald, star of the new “Footloose,” and Shane Sparks, renowned choreographer and former “America’s Best Dance Crew” judge. In October, Carissa was planning a trip to L.A. to take classes with Lil’ C, a judge on “So You Think You Can Dance.” She says she loves opportunities like this because she can learn so much and bring back what she’s learned to teach her students. “I want to inspire others, and show them that you can be the difference and you can overcome obstacles,” Carissa says. “Nothing is beyond the reach of determination.” v

Local Business Breakdown

Zoe’s Café by Jamie Arterburn

Photo by Jamie Arterburn

Hours: Mon-Thurs: 9 a.m. – Midnight

“Creating community around a sustainable cup of coffee” is the mission statement of this incredibly unique business. Zoe’s, from the word “zoe,” which means “abundant life” in Greek, is located on 8th Avenue and 10th Street. Zoe’s is owned by Christ Community Church and was opened in September 2009 by Pastor Phil Grizzle, but you don’t have to be religious to enjoy this coffee shop.

Fri: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sat and Sun: closed for private events

What Sets Zoe’s Apart chai tea from scratch and prepare salads, sand-

• Zoe’s is strictly volunteer run. All 35 of their employees work without pay. • The café is able to offer the lowest prices in town and free Wi-Fi because the staff members aren’t paid. • Zoe’s hours are longer than other coffee shops or libraries. • The decisions made at Zoe’s are based on giving back to the community. Every month, the staff actually donates the tip jar to a different local non-profit organization. • Zoe’s is the only coffee shop in Greeley to make

wiches, and wraps in-store. • The company does not invest in paid advertising; it is advertised by word of mouth and personal experiences. • The atmosphere is not that of a typical coffee shop. The inside of Zoe’s is an enormous space with an urban, industrial feel that is also homey, which makes it easy for people to feel a sense of belonging. The café gives people of any background a common space to hang out, study, drink coffee or tea, snack or anything else.

Thinking Local, Eco-Friendly

Zoe’s cuts costs and helps the community by buying the majority of their products locally. The coffee shop practices direct-relationship trades with a coffee farm in Peru and purchase their loose leaf tea from Boulder. Eco-friendly products (cups, plates, napkins, etc.) are also used to promote earth consciousness.

History

The building that is now Zoe’s used to be a Chevrolet Dealership, then a restaurant and a nightclub. The designers of Zoe’s have attempted to honor what has been there before by designing around existing architecture. For example, they said they kept a glass wall from the nightclub because they think it adds to their urban-industrial atmosphere.

Student Friendly Zoe’s hosts an event called “Midnight Madness,” at which a free movie is shown to give students a break from studying during finals week. It also hosts study groups and college groups on a regular basis. Zoe’s is closed on weekends but is available to be rented for private events such as weddings, birthday parties, corporate business parties and more.

Tired of Studying in the Library? Try Studying at Istanbul

by Megan Presler

Bryan Cox, manager of Istanbul, is considering opening a coffee shop next to the hookah bar. Photo by Steffanie Sperry

Greeley’s hookah bar, Istanbul, is under new management and has upgraded its atmosphere to be a balanced environment for UNC students to socialize and study. Istanbul is named after the city in Turkey and has been a part of Greeley for the past six years. In the past, it struggled with the upkeep of business. But the new manager, Bryan Cox, says business has improved because he focuses on keeping a passionate staff to foster a better community. Located on 6th Avenue and 26th Street, Istanbul is a hidden treasure. The place is filled with unique artwork and multiple seating areas. Istanbul offers four areas of pillow seating which can accommodate a large group or study session. Other seating includes a bar area, a chalk board table or regular tables and booths. With several

power outlets, laptops are easily accommodated in all of these areas. If you need to take a break from studying, check out the selection of games, including checkers, connect four and chess. “The games we have here are minimum noise level games so the balance between socializing and studying can take place,” says Bryan Cox. The business also upgraded its lights, but not to typical light bulbs. Hookahs with colored LED lights inside hang from the ceiling to illuminate the space. Another handmade light fixture with small alternating lights adds color to the atmosphere. Cox says that the calming environment of a hookah bar, mixed with a little bit of energy is perfect for the business. He has a knowledgeable staff that’s eager to make hookah products that are the

best of the best. His employees regularly mix different shisha products (the flavored molasses tobacco used in hookahs) together to create the best flavors of smoke. With seven different brands of shisha, including Romman, Al Amir and Al-fakher, and 25 flavors, the possible combinations are many. Cox says they have been working on seasonal flavors and now offer a pumpkin flavor. Dan Bartz, who has been an Istanbul employee for almost two years, says he encourages others to get the Gobster Premium or the Fruity Pepples. “If you’re a first-timer, stick with the fruity flavors because they’re more relatable,” says Bartz. If you’re not interested in smoking, Istanbul still welcomes customers. “You don’t even need to smoke, it’s an inviting place regardless,” Dan Bartz says. Istanbul offers a house tea and 10 other teas, including cold or hot chai, as well as lemonades and sodas. If your appetite strikes when you’re studying or socializing, Istanbul

has chips and salsa, bagels and sour cream and Boulder chips. In the near future, Cox plans to expand the business. He says he plans to open a coffee shop next to the hookah bar in January or February 2013. “I’m not sure on the name yet. I would like it to be named after a city, like Istanbul, but we have time to think about that,” Cox said. “We are debating whether we want hookahs in the coffee area as well, or keep it separate. Also, a patio outside may be an option for the warm seasons.” Whether it’s a coffee shop or a hookah bar, focusing on serving the best products, having a passionate staff and providing a calm environment for socializing or studying makes it easy for anyone to fit in. “We’re open every day until 2 a.m., so whether it’s cramming for midterms or relaxing with friends it’s the best environment,” Cox says. Enjoy a six dollar smoke all day on Thursdays and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. every other day of the week.

Round the World in 30 Days

by David Cornelius

May 15, 2012. Standing at the gate in Denver International Airport, I look down at my hands holding a one-way ticket to Sydney, Australia. I have been waiting for this day for years. This is more than just a vacation, this is an opportunity to broaden what is a very inexperienced mind full of sensationalized and feeble thoughts of what the world is like outside of the United States of America.

May 17. Wheels touch down in the Land Down Under. The trip of a lifetime has officially become a reality. Where do I start? What should I do? The city of Sydney is full of must-see structures and experiences I may never encounter again. After 20 hours of flight time, nothing sounds better than an Australian beer near the harbor, looking out to the spectacular views of two of the most iconic structures in the world, the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. May 23. If there is a list of the best places to get scuba dive certified, the Great Barrier Reef must be at the top. The reef stretches roughly 1,500 miles along the east coast of Australia and there are a plethora of enticing cities claiming to wear the crown for best reef dives. Out of them all, the majestic esplanade seemingly running forever along

the coast of the Pacific Ocean in Cairns, Australia, won me over. The city fits this relaxed, Australian-surfer cameo perfectly. Even though it’s off-season for scuba diving, the Great Barrier Reef was exactly how it’s portrayed in movies. It is the essence of beauty. May 26. Less than 10 days later, the continent is already in my rearview mirror. The next stop is the city-state of Singapore, considered one of the cleanest cities in the world. I only have three days to explore this thriving and multicultural city. Singapore is home to one of the most obscure luxury hotels I have ever seen. The Marina Bay Sands Resort is situated right on the bay, and, picture this, shaped like a cruise ship stretching across three different skyscrapers hundreds of feet above the city’s skyline. This will be the only time I ever enjoy a cocktail in an infinity pool 55 stories up. May 30. The Angkor temples near the city of Siem Reap in Cambodia must be some of the most iconic yet underrated structures in the world. The detail and precision of art within the temples is of true beauty. The most astonishing thing is that the temples were solely built for gods. At no time did anyone live in the temples. The Khmer people simply resided in huts made of wood and straw in the surrounding areas. June 5. It took me only a few hours in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, to realize how blessed I am for the life I live. Not knowing what to expect, I am hit directly in the face with the most impoverished city I’ve ever seen. Infrastructure is non-existent. No road names or signs, just dirt where cars and tuk-tuks, makeshift auto rickshaws, had made their own paths. The 20-foot walls and armed guards surrounding the hotel where I’m staying made me realize how lucky I am. The citizens of Kathmandu are some of the most gracious and thankful individuals I have ever come across. This is one of the big-

gest surprises of my trip so far. June 10. In mere hours, I went from one of the most povertystricken places on earth to a place where money is no object. Athens, Greece, is a hell of a place to spend your 21st birthday. The nightlife does not kick into gear until 1 a.m. and continues until sunrise. Greece is a must on the bucket list for a party animal. And trust me, a good meal isn’t hard to find in Greece; the Greeks know how to cook. June 12. As the round-the-world trip draws to a close, a brief stop in London to catch up with family members is in order. There is nothing like sharing life-changing experiences with the people I love the most. June 14. As I wander through Frankfurt before my 10-hour flight home to Denver, I have plenty of time to reminisce about the trip of a lifetime. Four continents, 10 countries, 13 cities, 19 flights and 30 days later, I feel like a new person. I now know there is more to the world outside of the United States. If I am ever given even the smallest chance to travel and see the world again, I will drop everything and go. Everyone given similar opportunities should do the same. Passing up such opportunities means passing up experiences and memories most people never even imagine.

Traveling the World: It’s Possible on a Student Budget by Kirstin Graber Sitting in the backseat of a blue hatchback Saab, I look out onto the peaceful Danube River, which runs through the center of Budapest, Hungary. I see the bright lights from the Hungarian parliament lighting up the night sky and its reflection on the river. The historic architecture of each bridge along the river is visible in lights. I am amazed at the beauty of this city. It is my first night in Europe, and I can already tell what an incredible trip this is going to be. Hungary, Austria, Italy, France and Germany! I can’t wait to experience the different cultures and witness the history of each place. Looking at my boyfriend, who is seated next to our Hungarian friend in the driver’s seat, I wonder how I got so lucky. How did I get all the way here from little Greeley? By saving and planning, that’s how. When my boyfriend first asked me to travel with him to Europe, I said yes without any hesitation, but in my head I was wondering how the heck I was going to pay for it on a student budget. The first thing I had to do was start saving. Every single paycheck I got, I would put a portion of it into savings. No more Starbucks, no more going out to eat and no more shopping. Sadly, Starbucks was the hardest thing to give up. But it was all worth it. After doing my research, I learned that the best way to save money when traveling is to plan ahead. In my case, this was key when traveling to Europe because it is much cheaper to pay in dollars than in Euros. Constantly searching for the best prices available also helped out. Buying a plane ticket to Europe can be expensive, but travel websites such as Priceline and Expedia made buying a ticket possible for me. I discovered the cheapest days to buy a plane ticket are Tuesday or Wednesday afternoon, and set your

travel date for a weekday. After saving and ticket hunting for a few months, I was finally able to afford my ticket to Budapest. Next on the list was finding places to stay in each country. Once again, the travel websites came in handy. My boyfriend and I looked for accommodations in safe locations at an affordable price, and the travel websites gave us all the information we needed. Train travel is one of the cheapest ways to get around Europe and can be the most fun. If you buy the Eurail pass, you will save a good amount of money. This pass allows you to travel to a specific number of your chosen countries for one set price. When you get to your destination, remember to set a budget for the trip and stay within that budget. Know the currency and always calculate how much you are spending in dollars. You could easily think you are spending less than you really are. You should also know the little quirks about the country you are in. For example, in Italy there is a “sit down” price and a “take out” price. In Venice, we found Paninis for 3 Euros. When we ordered, the man told us to sit and wait for the Paninis. When we went to pay, he charged us double the price.

When we asked why, he said it was because we sat down and ate in the restaurant. We could have saved 6 Euros if we had taken the order and sat outside. Knowing things like that is important if you want to avoid being overcharged. Many students claim they don’t want to travel because of how expensive it is, but I am proof it is possible to travel on a student’s budget. The money in your bank account may decrease dramatically, but the experience and knowledge you gain is worth it. Just remember to plan ahead, save your money and stay within your budget. I have no regrets about going, and I cannot wait until I have saved up enough to go again.

3 Tips to Help Freshmen Succeed by Ashley Biggers Photo by Natalie Stacker Many freshmen come to college with the mindset that college is all about late nights, early mornings, crazy parties, tough exams and the opportunity to meet and bond with

a diverse group of people. That is exactly how college can be. But as you embark on your college experience, there are just a few tips to get you started. Tip 1: Attend all of your classes

This may be cliché, but going to class is more important than you think. Each day of class costs $60$90 - or more. By missing one class, you are throwing that money away. Perfect attendance may also boost your chances of passing your courses. Everyone wants to pass, right? Tip 2: Do not get too comfortable (It can be tempting)

Photo by Natalie Stacker

There will be times when you just want to lay in bed. You will have plenty of time to rest, relax and play indoor games with roommates, suitemates or friends, but you have to remember to go to class.

Laziness and procrastination can be your worst enemies. “When I was a freshman, I started off great. Then the idea of partying with my friends every other night sounded even better; plus it was fun,” says resident assistant Daniel Johnson, 20. “I began to slack off. I was missing class because I stayed out late the night before, or I would go to class and go to sleep. So either way it was not good. My grades suffered from my actions first semester.” Tip 3: Party with a plan

It is always best to party with a plan. If you plan to drink alcohol, it is wise to have a designated driver to ensure you get home safely. If you are walking home alone and would like someone to accompany you, call our UNC escort service. The UNC Police Department offers escorts to anyone walking on campus after dark. For immediate contact with the UNC Police Department, including the escort service, call 970-351-2245. Athletics supervisor Kristen Thomas, 21, said that she and her friends plan extensively before every excursion. “If a group of my friends and I plan to go out, immediately we pick who our designated driver will be just in case,” Thomas says. “Before we leave, we make sure we all have our phones, each others’ numbers and make sure we do not leave until we are all back together again. We are in Greeley; you never know what could happen.” v

UNC Alumna Proves Making Money with an English Degree Isn’t Impossible by Allison Samuel

With the unemployment rate only recently falling below 8 percent, students have to wonder if all the money they (or their parents) are shelling out for their degrees will be going to waste. We often hear about students who graduate and struggle to find a job in their field, but one University of Northern Colorado alumna graduated with an English degree and has actually self-published a book. Nicole Schledewitz is a Colorado native who grew up in Eaton, just north of Greeley. She attended the local public high school and then AIMS Community College, where she earned her Associates Degree before continuing her education at UNC. She graduated from UNC with an English B.A. and a writing minor in May 2010. In November 2011, Schledewitz took on the NaNoWriMo challenge. November is National Novel Writing Month, during which participating writers attempt to complete a novel in 30 days. Schledewitz fin-

ished writing her book, Blood and Silence, two days early and had the book published in December by CreateSpace, which is available for purchase through Amazon. Most of the books she has written, including Blood and Silence, are in the Fantasy Fiction genre. Schledewitz cowrote her first fulllength novel with a friend in middle school. Since then, she has written several stories. She hopes her longest novel to date, “Destined,” will be published one day soon. “[‘Blood and Silence’] is the only one that’s published so far, and I’m still working on my longer piece at the moment,” Schledewitz said. “I have trouble letting it go and I keep thinking it needs more edits before it’s actually done.” Schledewitz’s says she likes being able to express her thoughts and ideas in a way that others can see and share in the story she is imagining. “I also love getting to

know my characters and I enjoy the fact that they feel like entirely separate people,” Schledewitz says. “I love not knowing what comes next in my story and watching it unfold as I write it.” She says she gets inspiration from multiple sources. “A lot of times, reading will inspire me. I will catch an interesting word or phrase from a book I’m reading and want to use the same sort of imagery,” Schledewitz says. “Sometimes characters in movies or other media will catch my interest with a unique trait that sparks something for one of my characters, or

I will create an entirely new person based on another.” Schledewitz published her book in her own name, but she was recently married and is in the process of changing her last name to Korth. And marriage is just one of many big steps Schledewitz is taking. “I’m still hoping to finish editing my longer novel and either publish it on CreateSpace to get it out there or start querying agents,” Schledewitz says. “I would love to continue with a series set in the same universe, either with the same characters later in life or 29 their descendants.”

Staying Fit on Campus by Megan Lenhausen The University of Northern Colorado Recreation Center grants students many opportunities to be fit and healthy. One such opportunity is group fitness classes. With classes ranging from water aerobics to kickboxing to Zumba, the recreation center offers about 40 group fitness classes per week. Group fitness classes, taught by UNC students, have many advantages. “If you have someone telling you what to do during your workout, you can get so much out of just a short 25-minute workout,” says Megan Molner, junior at UNC and Step Energy instructor at the rec center. “During our classes, we are always working. We are all here to work hard and to get out what we put in.” Molner’s Step Energy is a class in which choreography is taught on elevated platforms to achieve a maximum cardiovascular workout. She is also trained to teach cycling and core strength classes. “I like to keep my Step Energy class upbeat. I try to motivate people by getting to know everyone in my classes,” Molner says. “I start each class by asking how everyone’s days were, and by telling them funny stories to make my class personable.” The recreation center employs around 15 group fitness instruc-

tors. The instructors focus on aiding students in their fitness goals, whether that is training for a marathon or simply relieving stress. Megan Lube, a junior and first-year fitness instructor at UNC, says she was inspired to become an instructor after attending kickboxing classes through the recreation center. “I love making people feel good about themselves through exercise,” Lube says. “I love knowing I can make that difference for someone – to make someone’s Sunday night really great through my kickboxing class.” Lube tries to make her class enjoyable and welcoming for people who attend. She says she wants UNC students to know they shouldn’t be too intimidated to come to group fitness classes. Lube is a fun, quirky person who puts her own personality and spin into every class she teaches and because she believes working out should be and enjoyable experience. Group fitness classes can also keep students engaged and excited about fitness. Students are given the opportunity to experience workouts they may never have experienced before. Students are challenged to look at working out in a different way and to exercise different areas of the body. “Before I went to a cycle class, I

Photo by Natalie Stacker didn’t believe you could get a complete workout on a bike, but you really can,” says Meredith Cujé, UNC junior and fitness cycle instructor at the recreation center. “Cycle, and other fitness classes, incorporate exercises for every part of the body into each class so each workout is complete.” Group fitness instructors are also focused on the safety and satisfaction of each participant. “Throughout my classes, I make sure I am regularly checking in and making sure people are okay by yelling out ‘how are we doing?’ and ‘who’s with me?’ I concentrate on being motivational and I always focus on my students,” Cujé says. “I’ve been to classes where instructors are not involved with their students and they were not beneficial. I want my students to know I am there to support them.” v

Do Yourself a Favor and Cook Tonight

by Orion Gaudio

ne of the most valuable lessons I learned during my seven years in the restaurant business is that your food is only as good as your worst ingredient. This, however, does not mean you have to spend gobs of money to eat healthily. The most important thing is to use fresh ingredients that come from as close to where you live as possible. This also means trying to only use in-season fruits and vegetables.

Of course, you can use ingredients that are out of season, but they are often grown in a foreign country and picked weeks before they reach your local store. The flavor will be bland compared to in-season produce. The life of a college student is hectic, and none of us has the energy or time to cook every meal. My goal is to teach students two healthy and delicious recipes that anyone can follow. Both recipes will make enough for two servings.

Guys, listen up, women love it when you cook for them, and date night suddenly does much less harm to your wallet when you can make a couple dishes at home and pop in a movie. The ingredients for both of these recipes can be found at any grocery store. Don’t forget, a recipe is a guide and you can always adapt or change it to better fit your tastes. Cooking is about experimentation.

Appetizer: Wilted Spinach Salad with Feta Dressing

Main Course: Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken with Greens and Cashews

Ingredients 5 ounces fresh spinach leaves 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1/2 medium red onion thinly sliced 4 ounces feta cheese 2 tablespoons cranberries 2 tablespoons chopped cashews 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Ingredients 4 tablespoons soy sauce 4 tablespoons rice wine vinegar 4 tablespoons sesame oil 4 tablespoons honey 1 tablespoon Sriracha 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 3 cloves garlic, finely minced 3 teaspoons fresh ginger, finely minced 1/2 pound skinless boneless chick breast halves, cut into 1/3 in. strips 2 green onions, white and green parts chopped separately 1 jalapeno, finely chopped 4 ounces spinach 1/4 cup cashews, rough chopped Salt and pepper to taste

Place the spinach in a large bowl. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a skillet over high heat. Add onion and sauté until it browns. Transfer onion to bowl with spinach, remove skillet from heat. Add remaining oil and feta to skillet. Stir the cheese until it begins melting. Stir in vinegar, add salt and pepper to taste. Pour over spinach and toss. Sprinkle the cranberries and cashews on top. Finish with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Whisk soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, honey, Sriracha and 3 tablespoons sesame oil together. Pour half of mixture over chicken and let marinate for 30 minutes. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add white parts of onion, ginger, garlic and jalapeno. Stir for 1 minute. Add chicken and remaining marinade. Let cook on high heat, stirring frequently. Add cashews, spinach, salt and pepper. Serve over soba noodles or white rice and finish with green onions.

These two recipes will give you a couple quick, easy and healthy alternatives that won’t break the bank. Anyone can cook, it’s just a matter of following some simple directions and ensuring you use quality, fresh ingredients. Enjoy!