UAB’S OFFICIAL STUDENT NEWSPAPER
VOLUME 57, ISSUE 10
The pieces aren’t the only works of art
The man behind the music
Gail Andrews, the R. Hugh Daniel director of the BMA, announced she will be retiring after 4 decades of service. Read more on Page 4.
Learn about the former opera singer who keeps students in tears from laughter and who fills Sterne Library with his singing. Read more on Page 2.
The
Kaleidoscope SUSTAINABILITY
Hamicable resolution Hammock park to open in effort to protect Green space
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Sufia Alam Campus Reporter
damaged light posts and young trees on the Campus Green caused by students tying up their hammocks. The park has provided eight poles with multiple knobs, allowing 12 students to hammock at a time. UAB formed a Campus Tree Advisory Committee, established as part
To help students enjoy the warm weather and breeze, UAB recently constructed a hammock park that lets students freely use their hammocks outside Rast Hall. The park opens March 29 as a solution to the overuse of already
of the Tree Campus USA initiative. This committee has committed to protect, promote and preserve existing trees on UAB’s campus, while pro-
viding guidelines to encourage the addition of campus green spaces to create a more attractive and sustainable campus. The committee worked with USGA to articulate a plan that would provide students with the best options to hammock around campus. Sarah Griffin, senior
in political science and philosophy, explained that USGA and the Campus Tree Advisory Committee worked together to form the new park. “I approached Julie Price because I know she expressed an interest in improving an opportunity to allow students to [use
See PARK, Page 7
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
Forum highlights campus growth Kristina Balciunaite Asst. Branding and Outreach Manager New buildings, parking planning strategies and housing were the highlights of the agenda on the bi-annual Undergraduate Student Government Association student forum held Monday, March 20. Administrators from different areas of UAB, such as dining, housing, parking and transportation, gathered to discuss and answer students’ questions on how to improve aspects of campus life.
Rich Yokeley, the resident district manager for Sodexo, said that due to the massive success of the “Fried Chicken Thursday” and the student demand for variation of meals at the Commons, Campus Dining has introduced themed meals. “Taco Tuesday,” “Fish Fry Friday” and “Barbecue Wednesday” are some of the themes the Commons hosts. Better pizza ovens will also be installed. Some of the goals of dining to increase customer satisfaction are to train and certify the staff in customer service, conduct daily taste panels for quality assurance,
offer more variety in meals and replace dated tableware in the dining hall. The door prices will be reduced 20 percent to students and “Mindful Mondays” will also be introduced to the Commons. This is an initiative meant to raise awareness around healthy food options and students will receive a discount when purchasing dining entry on Mondays to increase attendance. This project will most likely be implemented next semester, according to Yokeley. UAB Dining is also working on ways to improve
sustainability. Recently, Full Moon changed their containers from Styrofoam to compostable material. Plans for new buildings on campus were introduced at the forum. The university can expect to see a new residence hall in the space across from New Freshman Residence Hall where the Smolian International House and adjoining parking lot are currently located. This residence hall will be approximately the same size as the NFR Hall. A number of other
See FORUM, Page 7
BASEBALL
Roundup: FAU flies over UAB Blazers drop first C-USA series Trinity Dix Sports Reporter On March 22, in-state rivals UAB and the University of Alabama Crimson Tide clashed on the diamond at Regions Field. Alabama pitching dominated throughout the night. UAB totaled nine hits and did not score a run until the ninth inning. The Crimson Tide
jumped to an early lead in the second inning as they scored a run on a single. The game settled down until the fourth inning where Alabama added to their lead with a solo home run. “I thought Alabama out pitched us, outhit us, outplayed us and deserved to win,” UAB Baseball Head Coach Brian Shoop said. In the UAB half of the fourth inning, the game
turned wild. UAB threatened to score a run with a man on first and second with no outs. Junior catcher Josh Dobbs hit a ball toward shortstop. Alabama’s Chandler Avant caught the ball just before it hit the ground, tagged second base and threw to first for a triple play. Shoop argued that the ball hit the ground, and there should only be two outs in the inning with a runner on third. Neverthe-
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less, the call stood, and the UAB threat ended. In the seventh inning, Alabama added a run while the Blazers again had a runner on base. UAB senior catcher Pierce Ressmeyer launched a ball toward the wall in left field. However, the wind blew in from left field and altered the flight of the ball to stay in the park for the third out of the inning.
See BASEBALL, Page 7
DISTRICT 2
Candidate preaches need for lucency Thompson to challenge long time incumbent Wallace Golding Community Editor
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ordan Thompson, a lieutenant in the U.S. Army and a law degree candidate at Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law will contest two-term incumbent Kim Rafferty for the Birmingham City Council’s 2nd District seat Thompson in August’s municipal election. The Atlanta native graduated from the University of Alabama in 2013 with a bachelor’s degree in political science. As a member of the university’s ROTC program, Thompson was granted commission as a U.S. Army officer upon his graduation
See DISTRICT, Page 7
INSIDE CAMPUS
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OPINION
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COMMUNITY
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SPORTS
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Page 2 March 28, 2017
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
PHOTO BY IAN KEEL/ PHOTO EDITOR Godfrey Watkins, assistant librarian II, looks to his love of vocal music to fuel his enthusiasm for forming long-lasting relationships with students.
Sterne’s singing librarian Godfrey Watkins combines harmony of music and friendship, benefits students Surabhi Rao Campus Editor
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f you haven’t heard of Godfrey, head to Sterne and spend 20 minutes there to find him asking about you, what you’re studying and offering words of encouragement. After just five years of working at Sterne as Library Assistant II, Godfrey Watkins has become an icon. As he walks around doing his counts, he knows an ample amount of students’ names and has specifics to ask each of them, spinning off of what they spoke on last. Godfrey is a Birmingham native who once attended UAB himself for music. He still speaks about his fondness of music and incorporates it into many of his responses about his life. Godfrey was a songwriter and vocalist for the first jazz rock ensemble at UAB.
“That’s why I wanted to sing and entertain,” Godfrey said. “I was seeing people depressed and looking like they have no hope so I try to be encouraging so people can be happy and just do the best they can and never give up hope.” Godfrey has taken this interest and woven it into his daily interactions at Sterne. At the front desk, he livens up his answers to students’ inquiries by singing them as a recitative. As he walks around on each floor, he sings words of encouragement in an upbeat tune. In response to his reasoning behind the constant effort he puts into developing relationships with students, Godfrey referenced his passion for music again. “I take interest because, to me, it’s about my fellow man,” Godfrey said. “I just want people to be able to live their dreams because my purpose is
to encourage others to do whatever it takes. One of the songs I used to perform was ‘Keep on reaching for the sky, it would be a shame that you let your dreams pass you by.’” Godfrey refers to himself as a low-profile person, and responded to the interview request with sincere shock. At all times of the day, it was easy to talk to students sitting at Sterne that had something to say about him. “He always has something nice to say and he’s just incredibly kind and goes out of his way to make everyone feel welcome and a part of the family” senior Hannah Neel, an early childhood development major, said. “I’ve known Godfrey since I’ve been here, since 2013. I feel like he’s definitely increased knowledge and [has] always been incredibly helpful. A couple of years ago, I was trying to copy paper and I ran out of cash. He and some other librarians counted out pennies and quarters to make sure I had enough and didn’t have to go to my car. This made a really huge difference, because it was my very
first semester here.” During his nine hour shifts, Godfrey has found a way to become a part of many students’ memories of Sterne. Once an Opera singer, he has turned his talents into a benefit on campus. “Godfrey is very welcoming and interactive with the students on campus,” psychology major Jasmine Little, said. “I always have a good conversation with him when I see him. I’ve known him for about two years now. Talking to Godfrey is something to look forward to when I come into Sterne.” Godfrey has been working for UAB for over 20 years. He has performed in an Opera and he draws inspiration from his interest in singing and entertainment. “I love working here,” Godfrey said. “The people, the students. Different cultures, different attitudes and they all have a dream. That energy and that vibe.” Surabhi Rao can be reached community@insideuab.com and on Twitter @Cityrao17.
STUDENT EDUCATION
Genuine success results in crippling doubt Impostor syndrome makes the qualified feel undeserving Sufia Alam Campus Reporter When David Hilton was accepted into Cornell University for a Ph.D. in applied physics, he was waiting for the letter that said they had made a mistake. “I expected to get bounced immediately, because, of course, I’m not good enough to be there,” he said. “I wanted to make sure no one discovered that they made a mistake in hiring me.” Hilton’s experience withanxiety began when his dad was diagnosed with cancer. During his sophomore year at Rochester University, Hilton’s father was diagnosed with a cancer that he described as extremely rare. At the time, Hilton was pursuing an undergraduate degree in optical engineering, one of two in the country at the time.
Hilton chose to attend coined in 1978 and has a college 40 minutes away been increasingly recognized from his home to ensure throughout the decades, he could be available to his according to Hilton. Individdad, a decision he described uals with this syndrome tend as difficult. The following to credit their success to luck year, halfway through Hilor charm rather than intelliton’s junior year, his father gence and diligence. passed. “For me, it’s hard to “Obviously that’s internalize complinot good for your ments,” said Isabella mental health,” he Mak, junior in neurosaid. “It certainly science and founder wasn’t good for mine.” of the Undergraduate The following Reasearch Ambassasummer, Hilton dors. Mak also served decided he wanted Hilton as the 2016 Miss UAB. to pursue a Ph.D. in “There’s a [difficulty] physics. He found a mentor in internalizing your own who pushed him to apply to hard work and success, even different programs. Hilton though you have accomsaid he sold himself short, plished so much.” and only applied to certain Impostor syndrome leads programs to satiate his to feelings of inadequacy mentor. Despite this, Hilton in regards to intelligence or applied to Cornell University worth, and because of these and was accepted. He later consistent feelings, students accepted a job as a physics may feel as if they cannot professor at UAB. apply for competitive posi“If I didn’t have some tions, Hilton said. people who made me aware “It’s frustrating, because I was downgrading myself, then I see my friends who I wouldn’t be here right are just like me getting the now,”Hilton said. same leadership positions Impostor syndrome was and awards I told myself not
to apply to,” Nadia Anabtawi, sophomore in neuroscience and part of the Honors College, said in regards to her avoiding applying to certain positions or scholarships because she doesn’t believe in her qualifications. Ashley Kuntz, Ph.D and director of Honors Administration added that almost every student that she has ever worked with never believed they were capable enough for a competitive opportunity. “My advice is that every single student who has won a fellowship at UAB believed that they could never win it when they first began,” Kuntz said. “They all come into my office and say there’s no way I can ever be competitive for that opportunity. Every major fellowship winner I’ve ever worked with this felt this way.” Shannon Blanton, Ph.D. and dean of the Honors College, said that these feelings of inadequacy don’t necessarily put individuals at a disadvantage, and most students will eventually overcome it with experience.
“It’s helpful to hear that other people have doubts when they’re winning these big awards or doing these great research accomplishments, and that everybody goes through the same thing you are going through,” Blanton said. “It’s a process. I think, today, that I have so much more confidence than I did 25 years ago.” In the spirit of Hilton’s experience with his mentor, Gareth Jones, the program administrator in the Office of Service Learning and Undergraduate Research, said that students who feel like impostors in their fields should not only reach out to others who may feel similarly, but to find a mentor to guide them through the process. “If you put in the work, and continue to have experiences, you will be ready for that next level,” Jones said. “Be excited. Get into what you’re studying. Be passionate about it. Eventually you will be the expert.” Sufia Alam can be reached at sufia@uab.edu.
opinion Spring 2017 Chandler Jones Editor-in-Chief editor@insideuab.com
Tessa Case Managing Editor managing@insideuab.com
Surabhi Rao Campus Editor campus@insideuab.com
Jack Ryan Sports Editor sports@insideuab.com
Ian Keel Photo Editor photos@insideuab.com
Tamara Imam Branding and Outreach Manager online@insideuab.com
Emily Cox-Oldham Assistant Photo Editor emilyco@uab.edu
Kristina Balciunaite Assistant Branding and Outreach Manager asst.online @insideuab.com
Page 3 March 28, 2017
OPPOSING VIEWPOINTS: AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT
Taste of your own medicine Connor McDonald Opinions Columnist
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ith all the political chaos brewing recently, it’s easy to forget that government is actually about legislating and enacting policy rather than entertainment and drama. After failing to defeat Obamacare once and for all, Republicans now face an uncertain future. Luckily, their failure to repeal and replace is a breath of fresh air from the gloom and doom that has dominated the news cycle for so long now. For many Americans, the republican plan meant a future with less coverage and more costs. Their solution, if you could call it that, to the problem of health care was known as the American Health Care Act. A better name is probably Republicare, as this bill was spawned from the depths of Republican talking points and conservative ideology. This bill was drenched with such Republican stink that it didn’t take long to realize that this quick-fix wasn’t designed to address and solve our health
care issues. chase it. As healthy people exFor starters, according the ited the insurance pool, there Congressional Budget Office, would have been a smaller by 2018, there would pool of insurance purchasers have been 14 million more to help subsidize people with people without health medical complications. insurance than there This would have caused currently are. Let’s not premiums to increase by forget that this would 15 to 20 percent every have been less than two year before stabilizing years from now, by the around 2020. way. By 2026, the CBO Taxes on the wealthy projected that number McDonald were planned to be cut to be 24 million. That significantly compared would have been an astonto other income groups under ishing amount of people, and the AHCA. As a consequence, luckily, this was and continues subsidies for those who would to be the biggest point of con- have needed them would have tention among Republicans been cut to compensate for the since it is political suicide to decreased revenue. According throw that many people off to the nonpartisan Tax Policy their health insurance. Center, the top 0.1 percent of One of the largest issues earners would have received a that was associated with the $207,390 tax cut, while lower AHCA is the repealing of the and middle class earners would individual mandate of the have received a tax cut closer ACA. The mandate required to $150 to $300. that everyone purchase The subsidies based on cost insurance or pay a penalty. of living or income present By repealing the mandate, in the ACA would have been according to the CBO, 7 milreplaced with a flat, total lion fewer people would have amount based on the recipihad insurance through their ent’s age. According to a study employer by 2026 because done by WalletHub, Birmingthey would have been healthy ham would have been the enough to not need to pureighth most affected metro-
politan area with a current average subsidy under the ACA of $9,494 and projected future average subsidy under the AHCA of just $5,000. The more you look into the AHCA, the more apparent it becomes that this bill would have been most effective at reducing the deficit while lowering taxes on the wealthy rather than actually solving issues associated with American health care. Republicans continue to spout rhetoric as if they truly care about the welfare of their constituents, but their actions speak louder than words. They lie and stall about what they want because the truth is that Republicans and conservatives don’t believe that health care is a right. They are not interested in raising a single tax to help those unable to help themselves and they’re certainly not at all interested in fixing any of the issues associated with our wasteful, inefficient Rube Goldberg contraption of a health care system. Connor McDonald can be reached at conmcdon@uab.edu.
Sufia Alam Campus Reporter sufia@uab.edu
Wallace Golding Community Editor community @insideuab.com
Trinity Dix Sports Reporter tri915@uab.edu
Connor Gentry Sports Reporter gcgentry@uab.edu
Anthony Roney Community Reporter roney16@uab.edu
Chris St. John Opinions Columnist cstjohn@uab.edu
Connor McDonald Opinions Columnist conmcdon@uab.edu ILLUSTRATION BY LEISHA CHAMBERS/HEAD ILLUSTRATOR
Leisha Chamers Head Illustrator lei2013@uab.edu
Marie Sutton Advisor masutton@uab.edu
Patrick Johnson Production Manager plj3@uab.edu The Kaleidoscope functions as a memeber of UAB Student Media in association with UABTV, BlazeRadio and Aura. Website: UAB.edu/kscope Twitter @UABkscope Facebook facebook.com/uabkscope/ Instagram instagram.com/ uabkscope/ The Kaleidoscope is produced in the office of UAB Student Media. Suite 130 Hill Student Center 1400 University Blvd. Birmingham, 35233 (205) 934-3354
Sometimes, when you lose, you win Chris St. John Opinions Columnist I wanted to see “Obamacare” repealed and replaced, but that is not going to happen, because President Donald Trump pulled the new Republican health care bill from the house floor. It was obvious it was not going to pass. To be honest, it was a bad bill. That doesn’t mean I’m swapping ideologies, it just means I disagree with some of my party. It also doesn’t mean that the fight for health care is over. Trump is simply walking away from a bad deal. I wasn’t particularly a fan of this proposed health care plan. However, I understood what was presented to the public was only part one of a three-part plan, according to an interview Tom Price, Ph.D., secretary of Health and Human Services, did with Joe Scarborough on “Morning Joe.” The other two parts would have included the plan’s ability for insurance
providers to work across state came to the White House and lines. Right now, insurance can- met with Trump to discuss the not do this, which gives some need for Medicaid to negotiate insurers a monopoly on a state. pharmaceutical prices. Right It is the belief of consernow, believe it or not, the vatives that if insurance U.S. government does can cross state lines, not negotiate prices with than competition would pharmaceutical compaincrease and free markets nies: Medicaid pays full could drive down prices. price. However, the bill I don’t know why presented did not have St. John some Republicans this option and it did not wanted to push this bill fulfill other campaign promises. through in the first hundred I believe Trump should be given days of Trump’s presidency. some credit, however, which This short time frame kept a he has received from members lot of people from reviewing of the party, but not the main the bill. Plus, the proposed stream media, for actively parbill was only the first part of a ticipating with the negotiations. three-part bill. It took Obama, Something former President even when he had a Democratic Barack Obama did not do. majority, over a year to get his Trump invited officials to health bill passed. a bowling night at the White I don’t entirely believe the House. This may seem silly, Congressional Budget Office’s but a lot of officials said they report that stated the Repubappreciated the effort and lican bill would be worse than camaraderie. Plus, Trump made “Obamacare.” My skepticism several trips to Capitol Hill to is due to the CBO not working meet with anyone that would with all the information. They talk. Elijah Cummings, D-Md., only had part-one. This nega-
tive review and that Republicans tried to push it through so fast were the main reasons this bill did not pass. I also don’t believe the CBO when they say that “Obamacare” is not imploding and that it is sustainable. This is just not true. Five states only have one insurer. Other states, have seen their premiums rise by 22 percent. This brings a person’s premium well past the amount they can pay. Therefore, while they are covered, and do have insurance, they can’t afford to use it. I will admit that even I, as a Republican, was not thrilled with the bill as it was presented. We were assured that the bill would fulfill campaign promises, and that the current part was negotiable. Unfortunately, it would have been hard for Republicans to face their constituents with the bill as it was presented to us. Chris St. John can be reached at cstjohn@uab.edu.
community
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March 28, 2017
BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART
Curatorial wonder departs Retiring director known for passion for art, community dollars to bring exhibiAnthony Roney Community Reporter tions and programs to After 40 years of service to the Birmingham Museum of Art, 20 of those serving as the R. Hugh Daniel Director, Gail Andrews has announced her retirement. “Over the years, I have seen a lot of change for sure,” Andrews said. “When I came here, the staff was about 10 people and the museum was about half as big and the collection was a quarter as big. I’ve seen the staff now grow to 80 people, I’ve seen the museum grow to 180,000 square feet and I’ve seen the collection grow to about 27,000 objects.” Employees of the BMA believe that Andrews is a key piece to the museum and to the community. “Gail has made a huge contribution to the cultural landscape of this city,” said Emily G. Hanna, curator of the Art of Africa and the Americas. “She has built a community of passionate art supporters, raised countless
life, helped the museum add really important works to the permanent collection and shaped public thinking about the role of arts in our city and state. She has clearly loved providing a space for our community to have great art experiences.” Andrews said she felt that her biggest accomplishment was getting the museum much more involved with the community. A good example of that, for her, were the art classes given at the museum. “I think our education programs are much more robust and I think that we are connecting and engaging through our dual
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY THE BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART Gail Andrews, the R. Hugh Daniel director of the Birmingham Museum of Art, will retire in September.
platforms that was, of course, inconceivable when I came here 40
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—James K. Outland, chairman of the board of trustees of the BMA
Lake deeper than wallets When councilors heard that a city-owned lake could be overtaken by developers, heated discussion resulted in a revised proposal on Tuesday, March 21. Councilors discussed the sale of 28 acres of land currently owned by the city to a company titled Tower Development at the cost of $642,000. Because this property divides the lake, councilors did not initially accept the item. “If the lake is included in the property, it’s a no-go from me,”
such as UAB have become deeper, and we have more to do with
Her remarkable knowledge and passion for art is matched only by her drive to enhance the lives of others. Her contributions to our institution, our community and the museum field at large are immeasurable.
CITY COUNCIL
Surabhi Rao Campus Editor
years ago,” Andrews said. “I think our relationships with schools
Council President Pro Tempore of District 8, Steven Hoyt, said. “We have public access to this lake, and what I don’t want, over time, is for homeowners [to] not allow people to walk on their side.” After developers were brought in to edit the proposed sale, the lake was not included in it and the item was passed. “I feel pretty good about it,” said Herman Henderson, the president of Stop the Violence Construction, a facet of the Birmingham Violence Reduction Initiative. “The minority
should get a piece of the economic pie. That’s my main thing.” Henderson explained that his main concern was that gentrification has the potential to counteract the process of revitalization. “The lake belongs to the city,” said Henderson. “It should not be owned by any developer. So, everybody including me, the city, the construction company and the community all got what they wanted.” Surabhi Rao can be reached at campus@insideuab.com or on Twitter @CityRao17.
Humans of Birmingham
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I repair cell phones. I love it. When I repair someone’s cell phone and hand it back to them, it’s like giving them a Christmas gift. At the moment, this is my passion. —Phillip Lewis
the disciplines.” James K. Outland, chairman of the board of trustees of the BMA described Andrews as a tireless advocate for the arts not just within Birmingham, but throughout the state. He also commended Andrews for creating a vast collection of quality pieces. “Her remarkable knowledge and passion for art is matched only by her drive to enhance the lives of others,” he said. “Her contributions to our institution, our community and the museum field at large are immeasurable.” With the retirement of one director, another must be hired. A search committee is being appointed to find and hire a new director for the BMA. Andrews said that the search should take about six to eight months. Andrews announced two weeks ago that she will retire sometime in September. She said that she plans to do all the standard activities of “retired people,” such as gardening, yoga and traveling but she still plans to come back to volunteer at the museum. Anthony Roney can be reached at roney16@uab.edu.
sports
Page 5 March 28, 2017
BASKETBALL
Tales from the hardwood No. 32 relives decision to come to UAB and historic first season
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reshman forward Rachael Childress sprints down the court following freshman guard Miyah Barnes. Childress stops at the top of the key. Barnes passes her the ball, and Childress drains a 3-pointer. Of the seven newcomers on the UAB Women’s Basketball team, Childress was the earliest to commit. In her junior year at Lawrence County High School, she fell in love with the coaching staff, and realized that UAB was the place for her. “Coach Norton had talked to me some,” Childress said. “He and Coach [Taren] Martin came to watch one of my high school games, and right after that, they offered me. I came to a game and I was like this is where I want to go.” When she finally joined UAB as a freshman, she found herself not wanting to be anywhere but UAB. She has fallen in love with the environment, the coaches and the team. Of all the people
Childress met, she grew closer to the other six freshmen who committed to UAB after she did. She especially grew close with Barnes, who she claims to be the honest teammate who will let others know when they are doing something wrong. At the beginning of the season, Childress PH O TO
Trinity Dix Sports Reporter
played a key role for the Blazers coming off of the
bench. She did not make her first start of the season until Dec. 18 against the Troy University Trojans. From then on, she remained a starter for the Blazers, and would go on to lead the team in scoring. “I guess it just helped me gain more confidence,” Childress said. “Playing more minutes [means] you have the ability to do more things on the court.” Despite this being her first year playing for UAB, Childress accounted for over 30 percent of the points for the Blazers along with Barnes. Overall, Chil-
“
It just helped me gain more confidence. Playing more minutes [means] you have the ability to do more things on the court. —Rachael Childress
dress averaged 12.4 points per contest, accounted for 115 rebounds and shot 40.3 percent from 3-point range. She etched her name in UAB’s record book as she hit 95 3-pointers during the season. That puts her in the No. 2 spot for the most made 3-pointers in a season. She also led Conference USA freshman in 3-point percentage. With these stats, Childress quickly grabbed multiple awards in her first season. Childress, along with Barnes, was named to the All-Conference Freshman Team. Childress was also named C-USA’s Freshman of the Week four times, the most of any freshman in the conference. Childress earned the title of C-USA’s Freshman of the Year. She was just the fourth player in UAB history to be selected for this honor. However, she does not let these awards put her under any pressure. “I just went out there and had fun,” Childress said. “I don’t really like to think about all the other things other than just trying to win.” Until the next season for basketball arrives, Childress will head to the gym with the other six freshmen on her team so they can better themselves for next year. Trinity Dix can be reached at tri915@uab.edu
MEN’S GOLF
Hole in one: Teeing up to shoot for success Coach discusses season, looks to finish the year on top of conference Connor Gentry Sports Reporter Graeme McDowell and Paul Dunne are names that can be heard quite often while watching golf on a rainy Saturday afternoon. Both of these men are professional golfers in the Professional Golf Association and UAB graduates. UAB’s Men’s Golf coach, Mike Wilson, is in the midst of his first season with the Blazers. “For me it is exciting,” said Wilson. “It’s a challenge, but in a good way. UAB has a rich golf history especially with guys like Paul Dunne, Graeme McDowell and Zack Sucher that have all played here. Getting to know them has been really cool because they still come and see our guys as they are still really involved in the program. It sets up a great foundation for our program, and hopefully the next Graeme McDowell comes from the guys we have now.” Collegiate golf has a set up similar to most PGA tournaments. Wilson explained the way that a season for the UAB Men’s Golf team goes. “Every tournament is 54 holes [three rounds of golf] with either two or three days of play,” said Wilson. “For a two day event, you play 32 holes on the first day and 18 on the second day. With a three day event you just play 18 [holes] each day. In these tournaments, you are competing against 12 to 18 teams from other schools so you don’t really play like head to head matches. During the season, we compete in 10 regular season tournaments, the conference championship tour-
nament, then the NCAA Regionals, if you make it that far, and then the NCAA Nationals.” The Blazers competed in eight tournaments so far and have finished as high as second place in these tournaments. With two tournaments remaining before the postseason tournaments, the Blazers will look to continue to improve their game as well as to continue to adjust and get used to having a new coach. “So far, I’d say, with this being my first year here in a pretty established program, that this year has been an adjustment period,” said Wilson. “We had only two returning starters from last year so we are playing with a lot of young guys, but they have gained a lot of experience from their finishes in the tournaments, so that is good.” All postseason tournaments follow the same style of play as the regular season. However, the key to postseason play lies in winning the conference tournament, much like in basketball. “We are still in Conference USA with about 12 or 13 other schools that play golf, too,” said Wilson. “We will go to the conference tournament and play 54 holes. They then take the final [top] four team scores ,and then those four teams will play for the championship in match play. There is no regular season champion like in basketball, for example, just the tournament champion. The NCAA Regionals is set up the same way. You can play your way into the postseason, like in basketball, with your regular season, but the way to guarantee a spot in the NCAA Regional is to win the Conference USA Championship.” Connor Gentry can be reached at zcgentry@uab.edu and on Twitter @zcgentry.
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The Kaleidoscope
March 28, 2017
BASKETBALL: SEASON REVIEW
Falling from a mountain top First-year coach makes the best of early adversity to lead team to a positive year Connor Gentry Sports Reporter
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t may be March, but basketball season on the Southside is over. The 2016-2017 Men’s Basketball season was full of many ups and downs, but to many it seemed more down. Don’t get me wrong, it was not a bad season, but, especially coming off of a school record of 26 wins last season, it was definitely a disappointing season. UAB Men’s Basketball Head Coach Robert Ehsan finished his first season with a record of 17-16 (9-9). While this record was definitely not the best, or indicative of the team’s’ true ability, it certainly could have been much worse. Less than 15 minutes into Ehsan’s first regular season game, junior guard Nick Norton tore his ACL after landing funny while trying to steal a ball. Senior guard Denzell Watts, the other true point guard on the roster, was ready to take a red-shirt to preserve his final year of eligibility. However, he was plunged into the role of guard after the Norton injury. The season, minus Nick’s season ending injury, started out with an impressive slate of games highlighted by perennial powerhouse Kansas University, defending National Invitational Tournament champions George Washington University, nationally ranked Saint Mary’s University and cross-state rival Auburn University. The Blazers gave Kansas a great game, after the first 15 minutes or so, and even outscored them over the final 28 minutes. However, the Blazers could never really get a rhythm going as they alternated wins and losses every game. Let’s start by looking at some of the positive takeaways. Nick Norton will receive a medical redshirt and get this year of eligibility back. This means he has, potentially, two more seasons with the Blazers. We got a glimpse of the ability of the team, especially the younger players, at several points during the season. The Blazers set a school record for shooting percentage in a single game against Stephen F. Austin University, while also snapping their 31 game home win streak. Ehsan was able to pull a winning record out of a less than stellar situation. This will prove to be invaluable coaching experience as his career progresses. The Blazers raised over $3,000 for cancer research with their “Block Cancer” initiative. Ehsan donated $10 form his own pocket
for every block the players tallied this season, while the players donated a dollar for every blocked shot during conference play. Junior forward Lewis Sullivan redshirted this season, too. This will extend the Blazers’ depth for another season, which will allow the incoming freshman and returning sophomores to continue to develop with seasoned veterans. The Blazers’ recruiting class boasts three players. Makhtar Gueye, a 6 foot 10 inch tall center, Luis Hurtado, a 6 foot 5 inch tall shooting guard who reminds me a lot of Robert Brown and Zack Bryant, a 6 foot 1 inch tall point guard. These guys will be the first recruiting class of Ehsan as a head coach. They will lay the foundation for the next few years at UAB. The following are my takes on some of the more negative parts of this season. While a winning record looks good, 17-16 was not as great as it could have been. Two of the losses came from the second worst team in the conference in Florida International University. Seriously, they finished with just seven wins on the season. This is the first of two big waves of players graduating. The Blazers lose Denzel Watts, Tosin Mehinti, Tyler Madison, Hakeem Baxter and Dirk Williams to graduation this year. The loss of these five men will be felt both on and off the court. Several players will have to step up and fill the gaps left by the seniors. The Blazers started conference play with a 7-2 record, but then finished conference play with a 2-7 record. During the latter half of the season, the Blazers lost four games in a row. The Blazers seemed to allow every team they played, regardless of how good they actually are, to make three-pointers almost at will. With the way the basketball landscape is changing, if the Blazers do not step up their perimeter defense, they will be left on the dust. When all things are considered, the Blazers played a very tough schedule after losing their starting point guard, with a first year coach and came out with a winning record. Yes, it was disappointing given how last season went, but it was not horrible by any means. This season will be a learning experience and I believe it sets the stage for a great couple of seasons ahead. Connor Gentry can be reached at zcgentry@uab.edu and on Twitter @zcgentry.
PHOTO BY IAN KEEL/PHOTO EDITOR UAB senior Tyler Madison goes up for a dunk against the University of Southern Mississippi.
PHOTO BY IAN KEEL/PHOTO EDITOR UAB senior guard Janeka Williams dribbles the ball against Western Kentuck University.
Positive outlook on a tough year Young team looks to learn from a hard schedule and leaders emerge from the core of freshmen Jack Ryan Sports Editor
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he UAB Women’s Basketball team saw many ups and downs this year. Before the season started, I compared this team to the Men’s Basketball team from the 2014-2015 season. The women featured seven freshman, and many of them saw action on the court throughout the season. In the Conference USA preseason polls, UAB was picked to finish ninth place. I called this a weak prediction, but there were many unknowns surrounding the youth of this team. They would eventually finish the season in ninth place with an 8-10 conference record. However, that record was not indicative of how this team played. In their out-of-conference schedule, Head Coach Randy Norton searched for a starting lineup that would work for the rest of the season. Initially, the lineup featured two promising freshman: guard Micah Scheetz and forward Imani Johnson. According to UABSports.com, this was the first time UAB started multiple freshman since 2009. Johnson shined as she scored 12 points twice during the first weekend of regular season games. By the fourth game of the season, freshman guard Miyah Barnes, one of the most important pieces to this young team, made her way into the starting lineup. Her ability to create shots and drive to the rim bothered other teams. During CUSA play, she found her outside shot which added another dimension to her game. By the end of the season, she was third on the team in scoring and led the team in assist. She was one of two freshman from the team to be selected to the CUSA All Freshman Team at the end of the year. Freshman guard/forward Rachael Childress, arguably one of the
most important pieces for this team, did not start a game until Dec. 18 against Troy University where she poured in 17 points. She became a nationally recognized name as she chased many records for UAB. She finished second in UAB history for most 3-pointers made in a season with 95 made buckets. She led CUSA freshman in 3-point shooting percentage at 40.3 percent. She was named CUSA Freshman of the Year at the end of the season, only the fourth player from the UAB Women’s Basketball team to do that in history. Norton mentioned after the season that going forward, his team would be prepared for anything because they got the kitchen sink thrown at them this year. In CUSA play, UAB played eleven games that were decided by ten points or less. Of those eleven games, the Blazers dropped six of them. The team fought hard until the final horn sounded and Norton always appreciated that. This season, statistically, was not the best for UAB. However, this young team gained valuable experience from being pushed to the edge and fighting through every game. The Blazers have plenty of options going forward as they will only lose one player during the offseason, senior guard Janeka Williams. In the final double overtime loss to the University of North Texas, Childress and Barnes played literally every minute of the game. This team is going to develop to be a great team in the next couple of seasons. They have plenty of young talent on the inside and outside. Norton has everyone bought into his program, and it is only a matter of time before UAB shakes up the CUSA standings. Jack Ryan can be reached at jackryan@uab.edu and on Twitter @jackryanuab.
March 28, 2017
Forum From Page 1
buildings are also in the planning stages. A new information technology research building may arise on 18th Street South, and the School of Nursing can expect to see an expansion of their department on University Boulevard. UAB is adding more landscape features to the campus to increase sustainability and improve the overall atmosphere, James Fowler, director of planning design and construction said. The university has prospects of constructing more recreational amenities, such as possibly volleyball courts and a shared green space in the UAB-owned area on the southern part of the campus between 11th and 12th Street South, behind Rast Hall and the current tennis court.
Park
From Page 1 their] ENO [hammocks] without damaging the trees or the light poles and have more open spaces available,” Griffin said. Many students have also responded by comparing the park’s location to their previous favorite ENO location, The Green. “When you ENO, a lot of the times that’s not the only thing you do,” said Judge Ali, junior in chemistry. “Sometimes, after I’m done, I might want to play Frisbee or soccer with my friends, but by Rast I’m now limited to just one activity.” Huzaifa Amjad, senior in chemistry, mentioned his preference toward Rast Hall. “It’s less of a heavy traffic area than the Green, and Rast will give us a nice shade on the hot days,” Amjad said. “I also like the way the poles are set up, so groups of friends can stack on top of one another without worrying about the strength of the tree.”
The Kaleidoscope “This is going to make us one of the most beautiful, green, sustainable, urban dream campuses in the country,” UAB President Ray Watts said. Students raised concerns about the decrease in parking spots that will accompany the addition of these new buildings. Parking is already a challenge that UAB is faced with and new measures are being taken into consideration in order to find better solutions for the problem. Currently, the university is using the “license to hunt” parking method, which essentially means that UAB commuters park their vehicles on a “first come, first serve” basis, according to Director of Parking and Transportation Andre Davis. The plan is to change this strategy to zone-
based parking, which is a common method at other universities around the country. This way, all car owners will be assigned zones in which they can park, which will ultimately result in everyone finding a parking spot when needed. Another measure being taken is the expansion of the remote parking lot at the north western part of the campus. “We want to be sure that we’re being holistic in our approach to student service,” Executive Director for Housing and Dining Marc Booker said. “Not just provide a place for students to sleep, but to provide the experience for them that they can take with them into their livelihoods.”
Julie Price, Ph.D., and coordinator of Sustainability explained how setting a hammock on a young tree is more damaging than it seems. Young trees lack a sufficient root system, and stress on the tree may damage it to a point past recovery. “Imagine a small child trying to lift a heavy person,” Price said. Price also explained students are not confined to the new hammock park. As long as students stay away from small trees and light poles, they are free to hammock anywhere on campus. Price suggested the Mini Park and trees located behind the Chemistry Building as potential locations. “The poles are very close to each other and don’t look like I’ll have enough space to kind of just chill and listen to my music out in the open,” said Laura Scott, junior in education. Geoff Boyd, landscape architect and project manager of the park, explained that, if successful, the park may expand to other locations. “We wanted to see if
it works,” Boyd said. “If it is appreciated then we have a design or formula that can be replicated wherever.” Chris James, sophomore in English, recognizes this need and commends the campus for their efforts to protect trees. He noted that not many in-state campuses have hammock parks, and that if the creation of a designated park can protect the trees, then it’s worthwhile. Price mentioned if students would like to make changes to the park, UAB Sustainability would appreciate the new suggestions. “We’re still figuring it out and we would love to hear from students who are using it.” Price said. “Tell us what we got right, what we got wrong or any future proposals, and we will definitely put that into account.” Students who are interested in contacting UAB Sustainability with suggestions can contact Julie Price at sustainability@uab.edu.
Baseball From Page 1
Alabama widened their lead by adding their final run in the ninth. UAB avoided a shutout by scoring a run on the second error of the night for a Crimson Tide left fielder. The Blazers could not get another runner across and dropped the game 4-1. On Friday, March 24, UAB welcomed the Florida Atlantic University Owls to Regions Field in a double-header game. Bouncing back from Tuesday’s loss against the UA, the Blazers took the lead in the first game of the double-header. With only two outs remaining in the bottom of the fourth inning, sophomore center fielder Brewer Hicklen was at bat with junior third baseman Price Visitainer in scoring position. With two strikes on him, Hicklen launched a home run down the left field line, scoring two runs for UAB. “Brewer’s a really, really good player,” Shoop said. “[He’s] playing well and leading us. Of course, he was Hitter of the Week a couple of weeks ago. I’m proud of him. We need to get more going in that direction.” In the bottom of the fifth inning, the Blazers took advantage of an error and wild pitch made by the Owls and scored two runs. In the same inning, Hicklen scored on a single by sophomore first baseman Carter Pharis. In FAU’s half of the sixth inning, the Owls responded with two runs of their own from Stephen Kerr and Esteban Puerta. In the end, FAU could not catch up with the Blazers.
Kristina Balciunaite can be reached at asst.online@insideuab.com and on Twitter @ KscopeKristina.
Sufia Alam can be reached at sufia@uab.edu.
In the bottom of the seventh inning, sophomore infielder Antonio Ralat scored one more run for UAB. By the end of the first game, the Blazers flew past the Owls 6-2. The second game of the double-header, however, did not bode well for UAB. With the bases loaded in the Owls’ half of the second inning, FAU’s Pedro Pages was hit by pitch to walk-in a run. Afterward, a double from FAU added four more runs for the Owls in the inning. After the second inning, the Owls were up 5-0. After that, UAB junior left-handed pitcher Ryan Ruggles settled into the game and kept FAU off the board. UAB started to chip away at the Owl lead. In UAB’s half of the third, fourth and fifth innings, they scored at least one run in an attempt to catch up. Despite the attempt, the Blazers fell short after FAU’s Alex House assisted Puerta in grounding out sophomore infielder Pharis. Later, House struck out sophomore designated hitter Brett Blackwood and senior catcher Ressmeyer. Despite the comeback, FAU added a run in the seventh inning and would eventually win 6-3. On Saturday, March 25, the Blazers welcomed FAU to Young Memorial Field for the third game of the series. The weather altered the game, and it was completed Sunday. UAB scored early in their half of the first inning when junior catcher Stephen Dobbs hit a single to bring in freshman left fielder Colton Schultz for the first run of the game. In the top of the second inning, FAU responded with a home run
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District
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and currently serves as the Alabama Army National Guard’s Executive Officer for the historic “4th Alabama.” Birmingham’s 2nd District encompasses most of eastern Birmingham, including the neighborhoods of Brown Springs, Crestline, Eastwood, Huffman, Overton and Roebuck Springs, making it one of the city’s most diverse districts in terms of race, income and educational attainment. Since 2009, Councilwoman Kim Rafferty has represented the district, but Thompson believes that new ideas along with a new face will perpetuate and expedite the growth some parts of the area have seen over the past few years as a result of the ever-growing downtown area. “Birmingham is growing because there is a need for growth,” Thompson said. “We are stimulating our own economy, but our economy is still stifled by over regulation, burdensome taxes and bidding contracts earned through nepotism.” For Thompson, there exists a degree of inaccessibility amongst the current council. He plans to combat this by implementing a new process that allows constituents to make suggestions and file complaints more easily. “My office will set the standard of openness,” Thompson said. “Birmingham is full of entrepreneurs, creative thinkers and problem solvers who simply want to see their ideas come to life. I will serve as a conduit for every citizen who believes they know a way to make our city stronger.” Furthermore, Thompson aims to set standards for unification across the city in terms of economic growth. He believes that, by working as one, Birmingham can continue to make waves in the region. “The progress that is happening in some parts of Birmingham is stagnant in others,” Thompson said. “Areas are left out, but we are only as great as our least admirable district.” Birmingham has certainly seen its fair share of miscommunication and an overarching inability to work together in the past. Consistent breakdowns in communication and arguments between the Mayor’s office and City Council are much to blame for the city’s relatively slow progress when compared
from Pedro Pages that scored two runs. The Owls continued expanding their gap between the Blazers in the top of the third inning by taking advantage of the walks. FAU’s Puerta scored another run as Austin Langham hit into a fielder’s choice for an out. In FAU’s half of the fourth inning, Pages took advantage of two wild pitches thrown by senior left-hand pitcher Dylan Munger. With Pages in scoring position and Rivera on first base, Frank hit a fly ball to center field. Hicklen lost the ball in the sun and could not catch it. Pages and Rivera held up, but when the ball fell, Pages scored and Rivera reached second base. With one out in the bottom of the fifth inning, Pharis hit a line drive that carried out of the park for a home run. That was the fifth home run of the season for UAB and the first for Pharis. “We just need more at bats like Carter and Brewer have given us because those two have been really, really solid,” Shoop said. “We just need more guys to join the parade.” In the top half of the sixth inning, the Owls continued to expand their gap with Rivera and Frank scoring on a throwing error from the Blazers. However, due to impending weather, officials suspended the game to March 26 at noon. Kicking off the seventh inning, the Owls had two men on second and first bases. FAU’s Rivera hit the ball in the gap between first and second base, allowing Labsan and Mattis to score two runs. FAU’s
to other cities of a comparable population in the region. “There is no transparency,” Thompson said. “Government officials only seem interested in working on problems that directly benefit them instead of addressing issues that could benefit their constituents and the city of Birmingham.” A subject of intense, area-specific interest is also near the top of Thompson’s list of priorities: education. Echoing sentiments expressed by other candidates in both the mayoral and council races, Thompson’s platform calls for more practicality in the education local high school students receive. By offering more technical courses, Thompson believes that students not interested in attending college would be more apt to immediately becoming employed after graduation. He would also like to see the district begin awarding skills degrees in addition to standard diplomas. “Birmingham should be preparing its citizens—children and adults—for living and working in the 21st century,” Thompson said. “We must make it more attractive for those who grew up in Birmingham to invest their lives and energy in the Magic City.” Liz BeShears, a close friend of Thompson’s and a Birmingham resident, described him as someone with a “passion for people and [a] gift for leadership,” when she spoke with The Kaleidoscope regarding his bid for the district. “Jordan is one of the hardest workers I have ever met and he is adamant about the concept of servant leadership,” BeShears said. “This is exactly what Birmingham needs to succeed.” BeShears, as a strong believer in the city’s potential, made clear that she believed her representatives should possess the traits that she so resolutely claimed Thompson possesses. She believes that a change is needed and that he is the man for the job. “The Magic City has all the right pieces to become one of the South’s great metropolises,” BeShears said. “We have beautiful, diverse, talented and driven people. Our city government should be doing everything they can to empower our citizens, and that is exactly what Jordan is about.” Wallace Golding can be reached at community@insideuab.com or on Twitter @ WGolding_4.
Pages and Rivera reached third and second base on the play. In UAB’s half of the seventh inning, Pharis was at bat with Hicklen on second base. Pharis struck a fly ball to right field. FAU’s Miranda, however, dropped the ball. Hicklen advanced to third with Pharis at first. Hicklen scored on a sacrifice fly ball. A wild pitch by FAU’s Drew Peden placed Pharis and Dobbs into scoring position for the Blazers. McCown brought Pharis home on a single. Sophomore designated hitter Jared Nixon knocked Dobbs in with a single. The Blazers’ inning ended with a fly ball to FAU’s Frank. In the top of the ninth inning, UAB allowed two walks to FAU’s Frank and Langham. Sophomore lefthand pitcher Matthew Calvert struck out Miranda, finishing the ninth inning for the Owls. In the end, the Blazers allowed a season-high 13 walks against a team. Their previous season-high was seven walks. “The kids aren’t trying to do that, and normally, that’s a strength of ours,” Shoop said. “That won’t be a consistent pattern, because it hasn’t been a consistent pattern. Kids are human and 18 and 22 year olds don’t have a good day every day.” The Blazers fell to the Owls 9-5, bringing their overall record to 14-10 and their Conference USA record to 3-3. This week, UAB welcomes the Samford University Bulldogs to Regions Field Tuesday, March 28 at 6:30 p.m. Trinity Dix can be reached at tri915@uab.edu.
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The Kaleidoscope
March 28, 2017
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