Monday, Feb. 27, 2023

www.alligator.org

We Inform. You Decide.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2023

VOLUME 117 ISSUE 24 Not officially associated with the University of Florida

Published by Campus Communications, Inc. of Gainesville, Florida

Ukrainians find strength in Gainesville community, 1 year into war FEB. 24 MARKED ANNIVERSARY

By Claire Grunewald Alligator Staff Writer

Kamryn Bailey // Alligator Staff

Natalia Pluzhnyk, 47, wrapped in a Ukrainian flag stands in the crowd of Ukrainian Gainesville residents at Depot Park Friday, Feb. 24, 2023.

After losing everything when her home of Luhansk, Ukraine, was occupied by pro-Russian separatists in 2014, Natalia Pluzhnyk moved to Severodonetsk, Ukraine.

There, she worked on the front lines of the war in eastern Ukraine as a volunteer — all while being terrified Russia would try to seize her home again.

To ensure the safety of her teenage daughter and provide her with an opportunity to attend college, she moved to Gainesville in 2017.

“I didn’t see any prospects of a safe future,” Pluzhnyk said.

Pluzhnyk, now a 47-year-old Gainesville resident, has witnessed all three cities where she lived in Ukraine — Luhansk, Severoddonetsk and her hometown Bakhmut — be destroyed in 2022.

For many Americans, Feb. 24 is the date the war between Russia and Ukraine began.

However, for Ukrainians, this date is only a reminder of conflict that’s gone on for nine years.

Even thousands of miles away, Pluzhnyk fears for the state of her home country one year after Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, but she has found support and comfort from fellow Gainesville residents, she said.

“I felt and feel the support of the local community every day,” Pluzhnyk said.

On Feb. 24, 2022, hundreds of thousands of Russian soldiers invaded Ukraine, and airstrikes targeted major cities. Russia’s invasion caused Europe’s fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II, according to the United Nations.

Since that day, the UN estimates show the invasion has left at least more than 8,000 civilians dead and over 13,000 injured. Nearly 18 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance, and around 14 million have been displaced from their homes.

SEE UKRAINE, PAGE 5

Spring Student Government State bill could eliminate gender studies, grant hiring power to trustees elections: A voting guide LEARN ABOUT CAMPAIGN PLATFORMS, HOW TO VOTE

By Amanda Friedman Alligator Staff Writer

UF Student Government Spring elections begin Feb. 28, where the executive branch seats — student body president, vice president and treasurer — along with 50 Senate seats are on the line after a contentious campaign cycle between Gator Party and Change Party.

Polls will be open Feb. 28 and March 1 from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

at Reitz Printing Lab, Health Science Library, Norman Library, Levin College of Law, Broward Recreation Room, Springs Recreation Room, Southwest Recreation Center and Heavener Hall.

The ballot will also feature a constitutional amendment allowing students to vote on whether or not to swap gendered language, like “his/ her,” with “their” in the UF Constitution.

A valid ID and GatorLink username and password are required to vote. Remote voting options are

SPORTS/SPECIAL/CUTOUT Black women share experiences

Story description finish with comma, pg#

with hair as athletes

Athletes from multiple sports talk about their hairstyles and struggles. Read more on pg. 11.

SEE SG VOTING, PAGE 4

Bill may ban talk of racial discrimination

By Alissa Gary Alligator Staff Writer

A proposed Florida House of Representatives bill containing a widespread conservative outlook on higher education and a reflection of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ vision for Florida universities was filed Feb. 21.

If passed, House Bill 999 would ban the instruction of gender studies and critical race

Gainesville Police Department brings back K-9 unit The decision follows several public controversies, pg. 5

theory, give hiring powers to each state university board of trustees and allow them to call post-tenure review at any time for any purpose. It would also prohibit any campus programs or activities that say people are discriminated against because of their race, sex or national origin.

The contents of the bill reflect a longstanding conservative mission in higher education, said Rep. Alex Andrade, R-Pensacola,

the bill’s sponsor.

Andrade noted there’s a clear distinction between civil rights history and critical race theory.

While the bill does oppose critical race theory, it doesn’t seek to erase established American history, like the Civil Rights Act or the Jim Crow era.

“The constant conflating of the two is something that feels a little bit in bad faith and dishonest from my perspective,” Andrade told The Alligator. “There's an

SEE HB 999, PAGE 4

FOLLOW US ONLINE FOR UPDATES

EL CAIMÁN: Profesora hispana ayuda a su comunidad Maria Eugenia Zelaya cree en la educación, pg. 6

@FloridaAlligator

@TheAlligator_

@TheAlligator

@thefloridaalligator

Enjoy 30% off your first four rides* CODE: UFNEWS4 *up to $50 off each ride

2 ALLIGATOR MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2023

UF alumToday’s selectedWeather as Gainesville’s first chief climate officer

VOLUME 117 ISSUE 24

NEWSROOM:

Dan Zhu plans for greener Gainesville vision

By Jack Lemnus Alligator Staff Writer

UF alumna and former associate researcher Dan Zhu has combated rising sea levels in Indonesia and planned greener buildings in China.

After traveling the world fighting climate change, she’s now back to serve the city she’s called home for over 12 years.

Zhu began her position as the city of Gainesville’s first chief climate officer Feb. 27.

As the effects of global warming become more visible and Floridians become more climate conscious, the role was created to make Gainesville more sustainable and equitable by developing a climate action plan, Zhu said.

“For environmental issues, it’s literally like planning for the future,” Zhu said. “We have only one planet, and we need to take care of it.”

Since 2020, the city and county have been collaborating on a climate action plan to assess the effects of climate change.

The increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather, such as floods, heat waves and droughts, is on the top of the list, director of the Alachua County Environmental Protection Department, Stephen Hofstetter, wrote in an email.

Hofstetter considers lack of coordination to be one of

the biggest challenges for environmental protection in general, he said, so he’s ecstatic to have someone like Zhu on the team.

“It will be great to have a point person at the city to bounce ideas off and collaborate with on our climate-related challenges,” Hofstetter said.

Zhu graduated from UF with a doctorate in urban and regional planning in 2015, and she is a certified planner for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, LEED, which guides the construction of affordable, lowcost buildings.

Her training prepared her to tackle climate issues around the world. In Shenyang, China, she worked on one of China’s first LEED-certified university campuses, assuring it wasn’t only energy efficient but also a healthy environment to live in.

While working abroad, she said the most challenging part of her job was educating locals on the climate concerns that most affect their neighborhoods.

In Pangkalpinang, Indonesia, there was little public awareness about the flooding that ravaged the area, so Zhu and her team led neighborhood workshops to teach locals about sea level rise and mitigation, she said.

But one problem kept arising: the language barrier.

Every night after dinner, Zhu and her team would gather to

Courtesy to The Alligator

Dan Zhu is Gainesville’s first chief climate officer.

ISSN 0889-2423

Not officially associated with the University of Florida Published by Campus Communications Inc., of Gainesville, Florida

Editor-In-Chief

Have an event planned?

Add it to the alligator’s online calendar:

alligator.org/calendar

study Bahasa Indonesia — the country’s official language — learning enough of it to properly communicate in just a week.

“We were able to prepare a grand master plan in shortly two weeks, which is really amazing,” Zhu said.

As nations are continuously forced to work together on their own climate action plans, Zhu said, the major issue is communication across different languages and cultures.

But even among people she shares a language with, educating the public is still a rigorous task.

Many still don’t understand the true dangers of climate change, Zhu said.

“Sometimes, people don’t realize how serious it could be,” she said. “Not everyone agrees that they need to plan for the future.”

Back in the U.S., Zhu continued her mission as a planner in Marion County, where she researched greenhouse gas emissions and pressed for a low-carbon footprint. Since January 2022, she’s worked for the Gainesville Department of Sustainable Development, with achievements like improving the city’s sidewalk lighting.

“I feel like Gainesville is actually heading in the right path for climate mitigation,” Zhu said. “[It’s] ahead of the curve.”

After her graduation in 2015, Zhu didn’t know she’d return to work for the city. She couldn't deny the allure of Gainesville’s natural wonders like Paynes Prairie or the abundance of trails and greenery that make her feel at home, she said.

When she assumes her new position, the first agenda item is to reach out to the city’s stakeholders and learn of the most pressing issues in the community, she said. This will require working with local leaders at the city and county levels, along with Gainesville residents.

Aside from her work with the city, Zhu serves as secretary of the American Planning Association in Alachua County. She helps students gear themselves toward a career in sustainability and conservation, so they, too, can preserve and protect the planet. @JackLemnus jlemnus@alligator.org

352-376-4458 Alan Halaly, ahalaly@alligator.org

Engagement Managing Editor

Veronica Nocera, vnocera@alligator.org

Digital Managing Editor

Aurora Martínez, amartinez@alligator.org

Senior News Director Metro Editor

Jiselle Lee, jlee@alligator.org Emma Behrmann, ebehrmann@alligator.org

University Editor

Christian Casale, ccasale@alligator.org

Opinions Editor

Selin Ciltas, sciltas@alligator.org

the Avenue Editor

Kristine Villarroel, kvillarroel@alligator.org

Sports Editor

Kyle Bumpers, kbumpers@alligator.org

Assistant Sports Editors

Jackson Reyes, jacksonreyes@alligator.org Topher Adams, tadams@alligator.org

Multimedia Editors

Ashleigh Lucas, alucas@alligator.org Minca Davis, mdavis@alligator.org

Copy Desk Chief

Bari Weiner, bweiner@alligator.org

Editorial Board

Alan Halaly, Veronica Nocera, Aurora Martinez, Selin Ciltas

DISPLAY ADVERTISING

352-376-4482

Advertising Office Manager

Cheryl del Rosario, cdelrosario@alligator.org

Sales Representatives

Tessa May, Sydney Thieman, Sophia Handley, Nicole Hausmann, Avery Brennan

Sales Interns

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Classified Advertising Manager

BUSINESS

Comptroller Bookkeeper Administrative Assistant

ADMINISTRATION General Manager Administrative Assistant President Emeritus

Kate McCroy, Brianna Rivera, Anna Grace Coffing, Madison Kahn

352-373-3463 Ellen Light, elight@alligator.org 352-376-4446 Delia Kradolfer, dkradolfer@alligator.org Cheryl del Rosario, cdelrosario@alligator.org Ellen Light, elight@alligator.org 352-376-4446 Shaun O'Connor, soconnor@alligator.org Lenora McGowan, lmcgowan@alligator.org C.E. Barber, cebarber@alligator.org

SYSTEMS IT System Engineer

Kevin Hart

PRODUCTION Production Manager

Jordan Bourne, jbourne@alligator.org

Publication Manager Production Staff Member

Deion McLeod, dmcleod@alligator.org Namari Lock, nlock@alligator.org

Got something going on? Want to see it on this page? Send an email with “What’s Happening” in the subject line to engagement@alligator.org. To request publication in the next day’s newspaper, please submit entries before 5 p.m. Please model your submissions after the above events and keep them to 150 words or fewer. Improperly formatted “What’s Happening” submissions may not appear in the paper. Press releases will not appear in the paper.

The Independent Florida Alligator is a student newspaper serving the University of Florida, published by a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) educational organization, Campus Communications Inc., P.O. Box 14257, Gainesville, Florida, 32604-2257. The Alligator is published Monday mornings, except during holidays and exam periods. The Alligator is a member of the Newspaper Association of America, National Newspaper Association, Florida Press Association and Southern University Newspapers.

The Alligator offices are located at 2700 SW 13th St. © Copyright 2020. All rights reserved.

No portion of The Alligator may be reproduced in any means without the written consent of an officer of Campus Communications Inc.

Subscription Rate:

Full Year (All Semesters) $75

The Alligator strives to be accurate and clear in its news reports and editorials.

If you find an error, please call our newsroom at 352-376-4458 or email editor@alligator.org

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2023 ALLIGATOR 3

4 ALLIGATOR MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2023

Voting begins Feb. 28 SG VOTING, from pg. 1 only available to students who requested an absentee ballot.

The UF Senate represents SG’s legislative branch, which authors, debates and enacts legislation.

Senators’ legislative decisions influence the allocation of SG’s roughly $23 million dollar budget, such as funding student organizations and events.

The executive branch comprises of the student body officers, agencies, cabinet and executive secretaries. Each division of the branch has separate duties: the student body president holds a position on the UF Board of Trustees; secretaries act as liaisons between the UF community and SG; agencies specialize in particular student needs, such as voting; and cabinets provide programs and outreach to students.

Gator Party, which currently holds a supermajority in the Senate and dominance over the executive branch, has a slate of 49 Senate candidates and three nominees for its executive ticket. Change Party, which won 27 Senate seats in the Fall, has 45 Senate candidates as well as three executive ticket candidates on its slate.

Change Party’s executive ticket includes both candidates with and without prior SG experience: student body president candidate Faith Corbett, former Senate minority party leader, vice president candidate Kacie Ross, a Machen Florida Opportunity Scholarship recipient and member of UF Black Student Union and treasurer candidate David 'Jonner' Delgado, president of Liquid Propulsion, an engineering-focused student design team.

The Gator Party’s executive ticket all currently hold SG positions.

Student body president candidate Olivia Green is the Senate president; Clara Calavia Sarnago serves as the Leadership and Service Di-

vision chair, and Nyla Pierre, who has served as a senator since Spring 2022, is a member of the Budget and Appropriations Committee and the Students Taking Action Against Racism (STAAR) agency.

Gator Party

The party’s campaign platform focuses on diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, improving the accessibility for on-campus academic, lifestyle and transportation resources and reforming the student organization funding model.

“We need to elect an executive ticket that will build for the future,” Calavia said during the SG debate Feb. 21. “One that works to create an inclusive and accessible campus and that will enhance the student experience. Our ticket has been committed to our platform and goal since day one.”

Gator plans to advocate to establish LGBTQ and Asian American and Pacific Islander institutes, simi-

lar to the Institute of Black Culture, to provide safe and supportive oncampus spaces for these communities.

Additionally, Gator said it aims to help UF reach Hispanic-Serving Institution status, which would provide increased resources for the Hispanic community on campus.

“Gator Party has always cared about DEI,” Pierre said. “We really want students to feel safe on campus.”

For on-campus academic, lifestyle and transportation resources, Gator proposes expanded access to free textbooks online, emergency housing to assist students experiencing temporary homelessness, reviving the Stay Fresh Laundry Grant and supplying free sexual health resources to dorm residents in partnership with GatorWell.

Regarding graduate students, Gator would seek to provide free graduate research materials and increase the number of SNAP buses traveling to graduate residential communities.

“Some people rely on SNAP to get to and from class, especially

Gabriella Aulisio // Alligator Staff

The Change Party and the Gator Party’s candidates for student body president, vice president and treasurer engage in a debate moderated by Marna Weston in the Reitz Union Grand Ballroom Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023.

Gender studies threatened HB 999, from pg. 1

obvious distinction between the two.”

Although the bill draws parallels to DeSantis’ January higher education proposals, the bill wasn’t written in coordination with him, Andrade said.

The Board of Governors will aid universities in removing majors or minors related to critical race theory, gender studies and intersectionality or any similar studies deriving from those concepts, the bill writes. The universities themselves will be responsible for interpreting the law if the bill passes, Andrade said.

UF spokesperson Cynthia Roldan declined to comment on the bill.

There were 567 undergraduate students enrolled in the women’s studies major as of March 2022, according to UF Institutional Planning and Research.

Amanda Hiatt, a 19-year-old UF women’s studies and political science freshman, first heard about HB 999 in an email from her women’s studies professor.

Immediately, she was in shock that it existed, she said.

If the bill passes, Hiatt will seriously consider transferring to an out-of-state university to pursue her major, she said.

“I feel like it is extremely hypocritical,” she said. “There's a lot of conversation right now about censorship and what conversations people can and can't have.

For them to get rid of these majors that people elect to take is censorship in the most basic and most obvious form.”

When it comes to faculty, as it currently stands, the dean, department chair and provost conduct post-tenure reviews.

Under HB 999, a university’s board of trustees may review a faculty member’s tenure at the request of the board chair.

Tenure protects faculty’s ability to research controversial topics, Amanda Phalin, UF Faculty Senate chair and business professor, told The Alligator.

“If somebody can be fired at any time without review by subject matter experts, without recourse or a grievance, that is not tenure,” she said.

Given the success of the state university system — which Phalin said was No. 1 in the country in a Sunday statement —

a lot of grad students that live in Tanglewood Village,” Green said at the debate. “So, increasing SNAP, especially there, will be really important.”

To tackle concerns about student organization funding, Gator’s executive ticket has pledged it would meet with 100 student organizations within the first 100 days of its term and establish a new student organization funding model.

The Gator-controlled Student Organization Funding Review Ad Hoc Committee recently released a report providing suggestions for amending the funding model: adjusting the maximum amount of funding an organization can request and extending the period of time for requesting funding. Gator Party announced plans to split the funding request process across multiple days Feb. 26.

Change Party

Change’s campaign centers around restructuring funding for student organizations, expanding funding for mental health services and a permanent 24/7 library resource, combating issues like food insecurity and sexual assault and developing environmental sustainability initiatives.

“There is only one reliable option for students and that is Change,” Corbett said during the SG debate.

“We are here to restore faith in your student government.”

To fund initiatives such as a permanent 24/7 library resource, improvement of mental health services, securing free meals for student workers, a 24/7 Southwest Recreation Center and free printing in all academic spaces, Change would reallocate funding from Student Government Productions and ACCENT Speakers Bureau.

For sexual assault prevention and safety efforts, Change says they plan to improve the availability of lighting and blue lights on campus and require Green Dot training, a sexual assault prevention instruction, for student organization lead-

and the status of UF as the No. 5 public university according to U.S. News and World Report, she argued there’s no need to change the way Florida higher education operates.

“I just want people to know that if something like this moves forward, we will no longer have a state university system,” she said. “We will have a government-run training school.”

The bill also assigns exclusive faculty hiring power to each school’s board of trustees. The board may delegate that power to the university president, but the president may not further delegate the task.

Currently, faculty search committees are composed of several members, including current faculty in the department that is hiring. If HB 999 passes, the board and president would not be required to consider the recommendations of faculty or outside groups.

The university may not support any programs, including by providing grants or funding, that promote diversity, equity and inclusion or critical race theory, according to the bill.

Universities would also be prohibited from using diversity statements or political identifiers in the hiring process. The current UF Honors Program director search, for

ers.

“I think that our party, especially since the inception, has been a huge advocate of [sexual assault] prevention,” Corbett said. “In terms of student safety, saving lives, saving mental health and saving the student experience.”

Environmental sustainability makes up a significant portion of Change’s platform. They want to establish UF as carbon-neutral by 2025, expand renewable energy practices in SG-run facilities, develop a long-term and sustainable graduate housing plan and launch free community gardens on campus.

“We are in a very critical time when it comes to the environment,” said Jonathan C. Stephens, Change Party’s campaign manager. “It's time that our university helps us, especially as a student government … take sustainability to the next level.”

Change would also work to increase base funding for student organizations and create a more equitable and fair student organization funding model, such as an extension of the period of time organizations would have to submit funding requests.

“I've seen firsthand how our funding process is flawed,” Delgado said. “Our organizational funding process needs to ensure that everyone is getting truly a fair shot at being able to get these funds.”

A leading source of friction among the parties is the need for prior SG experience as critical to man the executive branch.

While Gator claims that Delgado and Ross are unqualified to manage the responsibility of their potential new roles, Change argues as a student government, it’s most important for SG leaders to represent a diversity of student voices.

For questions regarding the upcoming election, students can contact Supervisor of Elections Ethan Halle or visit the SG office on the third floor of the Reitz Union. @afriedmanuf afriedman@alligator.org

example, required applicants to answer a question on diversity.

Lisa Scott, a tenured UF psychology professor, is most worried the erasure of DEI will make the university ineligible for grants. Several grants require diversity training and support for a diverse student body, she said, and the lack of either will lose the university money.

Grant money is used to support research and students on the undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral levels, Scott said.

“Everybody in higher ed should be alarmed,” she said. “We should be enraged.”

After a landslide victory during the 2022 midterm elections, Florida Republicans are emboldened to pursue the political and ideological objectives they’ve discussed for years, Andrade said, including in higher education.

“We have a strong mandate from voters in the state that they believe in the policies we've been espousing,” he said. “It's just a good time to follow the mandates that voters have put us in places of power to implement.” @AlissaGary1 agary@alligator.org

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2023 ALLIGATOR 5

War ravages homeland UKRAINE, from pg. 1

Mark Milley, the most senior U.S. military general, estimated in November 2022 that around 100,000 Russian soldiers and 100,000 Ukrainian soldiers had been killed or injured in the war by that point.

To commemorate the anniversary and honor the lives lost in the war, Ukrainian members of the community held different events throughout Feb. 24.

About 50 members of Gainesville’s Ukrainian community gathered at Depot Park to spend time supporting each other.

Attendees brought Ukrainian flags, food and candles to light in memory of the lives lost during the past year.

Earlier in the day, about 40 people including UF students, professors and community members gathered in the Plaza of the Americas to commemorate the anniversary at a “365 Days of Defending Freedom” event. The UF Ukrainian Student Association held the demonstration and displayed 52 photos from the invasion — one from each week of the past year.

Oleksandra Nelson, a 20-year-old UF microbiology and cell science junior, led the event’s organization as the UF Ukrainian Student Association president.

When Nelson arrived on campus, she wished for a circle of people with a similar background. It wasn’t until the invasion that she was able to find a community of Ukrainians, she said.

“We quickly mobilized as a community, and I feel it provided a great amount of comfort to all of us,” Nelson said. “Especially at the beginning of the war when we all felt intense fear and uncertainty.”

The Ukrainian community Nelson found helps her stay motivated to continue holding fundraisers and educating the Gainesville community about her culture, she said.

Although Nelson is far away from Ukraine, she believes it’s important to do her part by educating the community while her friends and family risk their lives on the front lines of the war, she said.

“These people do not get tired of risking their lives to defend the future of their country,” Nelson said. “So, we cannot get tired of doing our work on the educational front and raising money to support them.”

Many Gainesville residents have worked beyond the past year to provide aid to Ukraine.

William Wharton, a 91-year-old Gainesville resident, has visited Ukraine about 100 times to conduct Bible teachings and offer humanitarian aid.

His wife, Lyubov Wharton, a 65-yearold Ukrainian Gainesville resident, said she often came with him; the last trip the couple took to Ukraine together was in 2017 and Lyubov’s last trip was in 2021.

The Whartons frequently talk about returning to Ukraine but don’t know when they’ll be able to make the trip.

Lyubov’s sister and other family members still live in Ukraine, she said. She was able to communicate with her friends and family, until the past week after a school in the Bakhmut area that was home to a power generator used to charge phones was bombed.

“Since then, I was not able to get connected with anybody because that was the source of people charging their phones,” Lyubov said. “So, I have not talked with anybody.”

Within the University City Church of Christ, the Whartons are able to support those in the country by coordinating donations from the church to Ukraine.

“We’ve sent over 7,000 pounds of clothing, bandaging, peanut butter and other things to people who have nothing at this point,” Lyubov said.

Kamryn Bailey // Alligator Staff

Natalia Pluzhnyk, 47, (left) speaks to Sasha Nelson, 20, (right) at a gathering for the one year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine at Depot Park Friday, Feb. 24, 2023.

One of the most important items they have been trying to donate is clothing that will keep citizens warm. Gainesville residents and organizations, including consignment store Flashbacks Recycled Fashions, have donated clothes, she said.

“We hear from other churches and other groups, and when they ask, we tell them what we know about the needs of people,” William said.

Kseniya Chumachenko, a 27-yearold Gainesville resident, who was born in Odessa, Ukraine, attended the demonstration at UF Feb. 24. She finds it heartwarming when non-Ukrainians join demonstrations and offer words of support, she said.

“Sometimes that’s all it takes to know that we are not alone,” Chumachenko said.

Chumachenko encourages everyone in the community to help by doing small activities such as sharing updates on the war on social media, donating or being a conscientious voter, she said.

After leaving Ukraine during her childhood, Chumachenko lived in Illinois and Kansas. Six months ago, she moved to Gainesville to work at UF as a biological scientist and has been able to quickly find a community of Ukrainians that offers each other support.

“It helps for us to talk among ourselves in our native language, Ukrainian, and be there for each other,” Chumachenko said. @grunewaldclaire cgrunewald@alligator.org

Gainesville Police Department reinstates K-9 unit after month hiatus Unit has seen numerous controversies

By Aidan Bush Alligator Staff Writer

Marking over half a year since a police K-9 tore out a man’s eye during a traffic stop, the Gainesville Police Department’s K-9 unit announced its return from a monthlong hiatus.

GPD confirmed in a press release the unit was reinstated Feb. 17 after staff restructuring in January. Following changes of assignment and the retirement of one K-9 named Roo, the team currently consists of two officers and two dogs.

With experienced handlers and constant training improvements, the unit was a large part of their crime-solving efforts, GPD spokesperson David Chudzik said. K-9s are important for locating missing people, finding evidence and catching suspects at crime scenes, he added.

“We just think they’re such an important and vital part of how

we fight crime in this city,” he said.

In July, officers pulled over Gainesville resident Terrell Bradley for an alleged traffic violation, an incident that ended with a K-9 attack in which he lost his eye.

Later, GPD conducted an internal investigation and there was community backlash.

Bradley still faces criminal charges from the incident, both from resisting arrest and an unlicensed gun found in his car at the scene.

Three officers on the scene shared photos of the injuries, and officers Andrew Milman and Matthew Shott were reported to have “inappropriate and insensitive” text conversations about the incident.

“It twas the nastiest thing ever his eye was split open and just hanging outside of his face,” Milman said in one text.

“I saw the pictures BRAVO,” Shott replied.

Bradley’s attorney, Gregory Durden, requested a financial settlement from the city Feb. 21, arguing the violence was unnecessary and resulted in upward of $250,000 in medical bills for Bradley.

“The force used against him was unjustified by any standard,” Durden wrote in a letter.

None of the officers involved in the incident are currently on the K-9 unit, Chudzik said.

More recently, the city held a Police Advisory Council meeting Feb. 22 where public members advocated for it to address the K-9 unit. While not on the meeting agenda, some members expressed concern and called for training or structure changes within the unit.

Council member Kali Blount said a lack of immediate removal of the canines and structural changes sets up the unit for further danger to the public.

“You don’t need a dog who can destroy the person,” Blount said

during the meeting. “You need one who can find them quick.”

A larger discussion on the unit that will be open to the public was scheduled for March, though no specific date has been added to the city’s calendar as of Feb. 26.

GPD also expects to expand the team by March and has five potential candidates. Further training with new handlers will come then, Chudzik said.

Any new dogs also go through a rigorous training and evaluation program prior to meeting handlers.

Captain Anthony Ferrara said the dogs are evaluated by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement after nearly 500 hours of training with an instructor.

“The vendors complete the simple skill training to demonstrate speed, agility and ability to recognize simple commands,” Ferrara said.

They are also recertified annually, he added.

But some Gainesville residents

feel new staff and additional training aren’t enough.

Danielle Chanzes, a local activist, said the department’s work environment has a history of controversy that needs improvement rather than new staff.

“There’s a serious culture problem at the K-9 unit, and none of that has been addressed,” Chanzes said.

A Black former officer filed a lawsuit against GPD for alleged racism within the unit in late 2021.

Edward Ratliff alleged that white officers regularly used racial slurs and he dealt with harsher infractions compared to his white peers. Ratliff’s case will proceed to the federal level in April.

Bradley’s next criminal court event is set for March 14, and as of Feb. 26 the city of Gainesville hasn’t publicly responded to Bradley’s request for financial settlement. @aidandisto abush@alligator.org

El Caimán

LUNES, 27 DE FEBRERO DE 2023 www.alligator.org/section/elcaiman

Construyendo comunidad: María Eugenia Zelaya ayuda a la comunidad hispana con la educación de niños con su educación y serviZelaya enseña clases de secundaria y dirige una organización sin fines de lucro Medellín cios de salud, pero Zelaya dijo que Por Valentina Sandoval Escritora de El Caimán

María Eugenia Zelaya, una profesora de secundaria en el condado de Alachua, cree que hay algo nuevo que aprender cada día.

Zelaya divide su tiempo entre dirigir la organización sin fines de lucros Children Beyond Our Borders como directora ejecutiva, enseñar clases de español en la escuela secundaria Eastside y criar a sus dos hijos. A través de su experiencia educando, se ha convertido en una figura importante para la comunidad hispana en Gainesville.

Su pasión por liderar CBOB y enseñar a estudiantes de secundaria viene de su propia historia como migrante. Zelaya se mudó a los Estados Unidos desde Venezuela en 1992, cuando tenía 15 años, con la familia de su mamá, que es de Nicaragua.

“Creo que el hecho de ser inmigrante y de haber llegado en un momento que aquí no habían casi latinos me ha llevado a dar a la comunidad”, dijo Zelaya.

Después de graduarse de UF, donde obtuvo una licenciatura en ciencias políticas en el año 2000 y dos maestrías en ciencias políticas en 2002 y en estudios latinoamericanos en 2006, Zelaya se quedó en Gainesville para ser educadora.

Aunque trabaja en Eastside primeramente como profesora de español y coordinadora de creatividad, actividad y servicio para el programa de Bachillerato Internacional, Zelaya cree en la necesidad de expandir las lecciones que les da a sus estudiantes.

En una charla que dió en asociación con TEDxUF, Zelaya habló

sobre la importancia de enseñarle a los jóvenes sobre cómo dar paz o sobre cómo crear un cambio haciendo cosas pequeñas pero significantes.

No se tiene que intentar ser un político o diplomático para cambiar el mundo. Según Zelaya, todos pueden ayudar a crear paz.

“Puedes hacer algo pequeño por tu comunidad y estás haciendo la paz”, dijo ella.

Zelaya ha participado en múltiples programas de educación y crecimiento, entre ellos un programa con el Instituto de Paz de los Estados Unidos en Washington D.C. y un viaje a Hungría con el programa de intercambio Fulbright.

Adele Turnage, 59, la subdirectora de currículo de Eastside, dijo que aprecia los esfuerzos de Zelaya de participar en entrenamientos y programas para educarse más.

“Ella guía a través de ser el ejemplo en todo lo que hace”, dijo Turnage.

Las clases de Zelaya no son solamente sobre el idioma, expresó Turnage, sino también sobre la cultura latinoamericana, eventos de la actualidad y su impacto internacional.

Sus esfuerzos de siempre seguir aprendiendo, Zelaya dijo, son reflexiones de la mentalidad de su padre: “Si no lo sé hacer, lo aprendo”. La oportunidad de ser directora ejecutiva de CBOB es un ejemplo claro de esa mentalidad.

CBOB tiene la misión de mejorar la calidad de vida y oportunidades de estudiantes latinos y sus familias a través de la optimización de su educación y su salud.

Zelaya empezó a trabajar con CBOB en un esfuerzo para ayudar a niños de la comunidad latina de su

iglesia con tutorías de inglés y otras materias.

En 2016, Zelaya se unió a una nueva iniciativa para proveer servicios de salud a familiashispanas, dijo Diana Montoya-Williams, un miembro de la junta directiva de CBOB. Se trata de las ferias de salud que CBOB ofrece cada tres meses, en las que hacen pruebas de diabetes, cáncer y presión arterial, dan consultas de salud y administran vacunas, entre otros servicios gratuitos.

Montoya-Williams, una residente de Gainesville de 37 años, dijo que las ferias no serían posibles sin Zelaya, pues ella tiene la habilidad de crear y mantener relaciones con las organizaciones que hacen que se puedan llevar a cabo.

“María Eugenia, como profesora, realmente personifica esa misión”, dijo Montoya-Williams. “La organización está prosperando bajo su

liderazgo”.

La directora de operaciones de CBOB, Valentina Gómez, 20, dijo que Zelaya dedica su tiempo como directora a seguir la misión de la organización.

En cada reunión para hablar sobre un proyecto nuevo, Zelaya siempre resalta cómo el proyecto va a contribuir a la misión de ayudar a la comunidad hispana en términos de educación y salud, dijo Gómez.

“Si los padres están saludables, no van a tener que preocuparse por dinero, entonces [los niños] van a tener mejores oportunidades de educación y en el futuro laboral”, dijo Gómez.

Zelaya se volvió directora ejecutiva de CBOB en 2020 y guió a la organización en su viaje anual a Medellín, Colombia, en 2022.

El viaje es de servicio, para ayudar a las comunidades de niños en

también es un viaje para aprender y sumergirse en la cultura colombiana.

En el viaje del año pasado, el grupo de estudiantes, profesores y voluntarios visitaron la Universidad de Antioquia, la Casa de la Memoria, y la comunidad de la Comuna 13, las cuales sirven como organizaciones educacionales. Zelaya dijo que su grupo ayudó colaborando con huertas comunitarias y jornadas de educación para la salud.

“Yo estoy muy en contra de decir que vamos a un viaje de servicio”, dijo Zelaya. “Los problemas de nuestros países latinoamericanos son gigantescos y un viaje de servicio es una curita en una herida gigante”.

CBOB trabajó en asociación con las organizaciones Casa Huellas y la promotora de salud en Granizales, en la Comuna 1, para hacer las actividades del viaje posibles.

Zelaya dijo que espera poder tener más programas en Colombia y expandir los viajes y misiones de la organización hacía otros países latinoamericanos como Ecuador o Nicaragua.

En su experiencia como inmigrante, Zelaya dijo que ha aprendido mucho sobre unidad y ayudar a otros. Ella opina que todos somos inmigrantes sin importar de donde venimos o quiénes hayamos sido antes. Lo importante es trabajar juntos y ayudar a nuestros hermanos latinoamericanos, agregó. “[Cuando emigras] dejas todo atrás”, expresó Zelaya. “Dejas casa, dejas carro, dejas todo. Pero lo que aprendiste nunca lo vas a olvidar”. @valesrc vsandoval@alligator.org

Minca Davis // Alligator Staff

Construyendo comunidad: María Eugenia Zelaya helps Hispanic immigrants with children’s education ZELAYA TEACHES HIGH SCHOOL, RUNS LOCAL NONPROFIT

By Valentina Sandoval Alligator Staff Writer

Alachua County high school teacher María Eugenia Zelaya believes there is something new to learn every day.

Zelaya divides her time between managing the nonprofit organization Children Beyond Our Borders as its executive director, teaching Spanish at Eastside High School and raising her two children. Through her experience with education, she’s made a name for herself in Gainesville’s Hispanic community.

Her passion for teaching and leading CBOB stems from her own immigration story. Zelaya moved to the U.S. from Venezuela with her mom’s family from Nicara-

gua in 1992, she said, when she was only 15 years old.

“I think being an immigrant and coming here at a time when there weren’t many Latinos has led me to give back to the community,” Zelaya said.

After finishing her studies at UF in 2006 with two master’s degrees in political science and Latin American studies, Zelaya stayed in Gainesville to teach.

Although she works at Eastside primarily as a Spanish teacher, she also works as a creative, activity and service coordinator for the International Baccalaureate program.

Zelaya believes she needs to expand her lessons, she said.

During a TEDxUF talk in June 2019, Zelaya spoke about the importance of teaching young people how to spread cultural peace, or how to create change by doing small but significant things.

Mantente al día con El Caimán en Twitter.

Envíanos un tweet @alligatorElCaiman.

You don’t need to be a politician or diplomat to change the world, she said, creating a sense of peace can be a shared task.

“You can do something small for your community, and you’ll be giving peace,” she said.

Zelaya participated in multiple programs for growth and development, such as a program with the U.S. Peace Institute in Washington D.C. and a trip to Hungary with the Fulbright exchange program.

Eastide’s Assistant Principal for Curriculum Adele Turnage, 59, appreciates the efforts Zelaya has made to participate in training and education programs, she said.

“She sets an example by everything she does,” Turnage said.

The classes Zelaya teaches aren’t only about the language, Turnage said, but also about Latin American culture, current events and international impact.

OPINIONS: Gator, Change parties state their case

Party leaders detail platforms, campaign promises. Read more on page 8.

Her efforts to keep learning, Zelaya said, are a reflection of her father’s motto: “If I don’t know how to do it, I’ll learn.” The opportunity to become CBOB’s executive director was a prime example of this mentality.

CBOB’s mission is to better the quality of life and opportunities for Latin American students and their families through optimizing their education and health.

Zelaya started working with CBOB in an effort to help kids in the Latin American community who attended her church with tutoring in English and other subjects.

Read the rest online at alligator.org/section/elcaiman. @valesrc vsandoval@alligator.org

Síganos para actualizaciones

Para obtener actualizaciones de El Caimán, síganos en línea en www.alligator.org/section/elcaiman.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2023 www.alligator.org/section/the_avenue

FOOD & DRINKS

Pop-up bakery Bushel & Peck offers unique assortment of baked goods CAKES, PRETZELS, PASTRIES MAKE UP MENU

By Amanda Rubio Avenue Staff Writer

Cristian Guerrero doesn’t consider himself to have much of a sweet tooth. But when it comes to Bushel & Peck, all bets are off.

For the 23-year-old student, the Gainesville-based pop-up bakery — and its 24-year-old owner, Peyton Agliata — have become a household name.

“With every order, she says, ‘From scratch, with love,’ and you can truly see that in the food that she makes,” Guerrero said. “She gets that spark in [her] eyes that you get when you’re really passionate about something.”

Bushel & Peck officially opened for business in 2022, with the bakery’s first pop-up taking place Sept.

3 at local coffee shop 108 Vine.

Since then, Agliata has cherished having a front row seat to the impact her craft has had on the Gainesville community.

Through numerous pop-ups and custom orders on Instagram, Bushel & Peck offers customers a variety of flavorful baked goods — from cakes and pretzels to countless pastries.

Ever since Agliata began hosting pop-ups through Bushel & Peck, she has become fond of the fact

that the mere smell of her baked goods stops people in their tracks.

“I love the notion of food memories and creating memories for people where they taste something and it reminds them of something that they tasted years and years ago,” Agliata said. “I feel like I’m a small part of something.”

Agliata traces her baking origins back to Aug. 2021, when she began working at specialty café Wyatt’s Coffee in downtown Gainesville as the head of the business’ bakery program.

For about two and a half years, Agliata built a following of customers who would visit the coffee shop solely for her baked goods.

With enough encouragement from customers, co-workers and her boss, Agliata eventually started a food page on Instagram, @ thepretzelrat, about a year into her time at Wyatt’s.

The account served as a platform through which she could share her creations with her followers before launching her own business.

Bushel & Peck ultimately emerged from a lunch Agliata had with her mentor and the former owner of Secret Garden Bakery in High Springs, Sharon Tugman, who she affectionately calls Miss Sharon.

Tugman encouraged Agliata to have her business plans set in stone

by August.

With numerous ideas for busi-

Keep up with the Avenue on Twitter.

Tweet us @TheFloridaAve.

ness names floating around, she eventually opened the bakery that exists today and settled on the name Bushel & Peck, a testament to the Doris Day song Agliata’s grandfather used to regularly sing to his grandchildren.

Agliata grew up in High Springs, a town about 20 miles north of Gainesville, and recognized her passion for culinary arts from a young age.

She made a name for herself in the Gainesville food scene, winning numerous culinary competitions and partnering with prominent local restaurants as a high school student.

While considering where Bushel & Peck would be based, Agliata dwelled upon the many relationships she had fostered as she grew up and decided that Gainesville was just the place for her next culinary endeavors.

“Because of all that history, because of all those connections [and] because of all that support, I knew that Gainesville was where I was meant to start my first business,” Agliata said.

Since opening Bushel & Peck, she has had the opportunity to participate in many farmers markets across Gainesville.

Every Monday, Bushel & Peck hosts its very own pretzel day at the Grove Street Farmers Market, located at 1001 NW 4th St. Using 15 pounds of pretzel dough, Agliata

Matthew Cupelli // Alligator Staff

creates an assortment of pretzels for customers to choose from — including salted, everything bagel seasoned, cinnamon sugar and vegan apple pie stuffed.

Bushel & Peck has also worked with several local, independent businesses, such as Serpentine Plants + Provisions, where Agliata frequently hosts cake sales.

For Agliata, what sets Bushel & Peck apart from other local bakeries is her use of unique flavor profiles that are complementary to Gainesville.

However, for customers like Matthew Adair, a 42-year-old disabled veteran and full-time graduate student at the Academy for Five Element Acupuncture, Agliata herself is what makes Bushel & Peck stand out.

“I just think it’s amazing, mostly because of the care and the love she puts in — not just into what she does, but that she puts out into the world,” Adair said. @amandacrubio arubio@alligator.org

Florida gymnastics wins SEC title

The Gators beat the No. 12 Kentucky Wildcats to clinch the conference win. Read more on pg. 11.

Scan to follow the Avenue on Spotify

1

Fresh laundry & cafe

3

$ 50

3830 sw 13th st, 32608

Get your 2 Laundry done first time orders

4

save SAVE20 20% use promo

1

/LB*

Operation PetSnip Have you heard about our low-cost spay/neuter clinic?

MondayFeline through Thursday 7:30 AM - 6 PM Packages

*20lbs Minimum charge

starting at $50 are necessary.

Appointments Canine Packages starting at $80

352.373.5855 4205 NW 6th St. Gainesville, FL 32609 alachuahumane.org/spay-neuter

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2023 www.alligator.org/section/opinions

Column

Column

G

Y

Gator Party: With You, For You Move forward, together with Change ator Party’s trajectory over the past three years reflects an action-oriented agenda guided by student needs and expe-

destruction at the Institute of Black ou give Student Governstarted.

Culture and the National Pan-Helment about $19 per credit This Spring, Change Party is lenic Garden, Gator Party is comhour, amassing a $21 milmore determined than ever to cremitted to taking actions to secure lion yearly budget that is ate a campus where all Gators are our sanctuaries through increased controlled by your stutruly respected, represented and riences. surveillance and monitoring. dent senators. provided with the resources they Time and time again, our wellLet’s face it, buying textbooks Meanwhile, your student organeed to succeed in a changing uniresearched initiatives, dedication gets expensive, which is why nizations are struggling to make Gator Party Change Party versity environment. to open dialogue with constituents opinions@alligator.org Gator Party commits to providing ends meet in an inequitable fund- opinions@alligator.org The first step in doing this is and understanding of the univerBoundless Books. ing system, and you lack access to revisit that $21 million budget, sity’s policymaking process has Through our ongoing discusto resources characteristic of a Ttop 5 uni- identify where money is being wasted and guaranteed the lasting impact of changes at sions with UF administration, Gator Party versity: accessible on-campus parking, a 24- put those funds toward initiatives and serthe legislative and executive branch levels. hopes to secure UF’s participation in the U.S. hour gym and a permanently-funded 24-hour vices that actually matter to students.

With that, we would be remiss to say that Department of Education’s Open Textbook library.

Change senators have historically protaking charge on the most pressing student Pilot program, which would generate savings Beyond these budgetary failures, Student posed and will continue to advocate for usissues is easy in the current climate. for students, like you, across hundreds of inGovernment has been tainted by controversy ing some of the money allocated to Accent In the face of threats to the representation troductory and high-enrollment classes. as the Gator Party-affiliated student body Speakers Bureau and Student Government of student voices and equity in access that We are so excited to have the opportunity president chose to approve a divisive new UF Productions to compensate for key initiapose challenges for success at our Top 5 insti- to lead UF, and it is not a commitment that president with a history of bigotry. tives. tution, the experience of our ticket and slate we take lightly.

In the midst of these shortcomings, one The $60,000 wasted to bring a TikTok star is uniquely positioned to fight for students.

The same energetic, tireless and posiparty has been working diligently to hear — with allegations of predatory behavior, no Our initiatives in the Senate have spear- tive approach that guides this campaign will you, represent you and establish measures less — to campus could have been put toheaded some of the most tangible changes guide our policy agenda in the legislative and for transparency and accountability in Stu- ward a permanent 24-hour library or used to since the founding of our party. executive branches, if elected. dent Government. hire another mental health counselor for the Despite hasty approaches by the other Time and time again, we have supportChange Party has been in the Senate and UF Counseling and Wellness Center. party to fast-track legislation on crucial is- ed all students, and we will continue to do around campus working toward a better UF Additionally, thousands of your dollars sues, our party has remained steadfast in its that. We are here for every Gator, and the for six semesters, and our impact has mul- could be saved if Student Government eleccommitment to thorough analysis and review members of our party represent the diversity tiplied since securing one-third of Senate tions were moved online. By finding innovaof critical questions related to night-time safe- in experiences that make our university so membership in the Fall election. tive ways to eliminate wasteful spending, ty, sexual assault prevention and the rise of unique.

Over the last semester, our senators have Student Government would be able to prodiscrimination and antisemitic hate on camExperienced leadership and the ability to worked with the University Police Depart- vide the services that students need. pus in the initial phases of our projects. challenge the status quo is needed now more ment, UF housing and dorm area governOver the next year, Change Party will exThrough the ad-hoc committee, charged than ever, and the Gator Party is proud to be ments to improve nighttime and pedestrian plore every avenue to give students the reby Olivia Green, we tackled the student or- the party in this semester’s elections to offer safety on campus. sources that they want, need and deserve at ganization funding process and are working that.

We made advancements in the way that a Top 5 university. to implement a new three-day form process.

We can and will serve the student body students interact with their representatives, We will ensure a safer and healthier UF This way, student organizations will have well, as we have done before. establishing forums like town halls to fortify by implementing vending machines for restreamlined access to critical funds. a line of communication between the student duced-cost reproductive health resources, As the party of positivity, we’ve taken to body and its Student Government. providing meal vouchers for student workers Written by Sazzad Mahbud and Mara Turlington, the Reitz and beyond this month Our senators accomplished so much over to fight food insecurity and further improving Vaknin on behalf of Gator Party. and all year to engage with students to dethe last semester — and we’re just getting lighting on campus. velop an actionable platform for all Gators.

We will stand firmly against the encroachOur efforts have been guided by our ment of off-campus politics on our education strong belief that Activity and Service fees while protecting and expanding initiatives should be used towards just that — activities for diversity, equity and inclusion. and services — and free from encroachment We will further initiatives to build a greenby things outside its scope. er campus by moving the Reitz Union toward To this end, we’ve held the provost’s ofsolar power and advocating for sustainable fice accountable in our fight to bring back development of graduate housing.

24/7 libraries, to ensure your dollars are We will enhance the student experience spent in the best interest of students. by extending hours at Southwest Recreation With UF hosting over 6,000 international Center, providing more opportunities for stustudents, Gator Party recognizes the impordents to park on campus and ensuring that tant role these students play in enriching our student organizations are properly funded. campus’ culture and broadening student perWe will fight for transparency and ensure spectives and worldviews on this campus. that student voices are heard when decisions This is why we have committed to adare made with that $21 million budget. vocating for the expansion of Student Legal These changes aren’t only necessary, but Services to include legal resources for interthey are achievable; a better UF is possible. national students.

When you go to the polls Feb. 28 and March Campus buildings and structures such as 1, vote for the party of action. the National Pan-Hellenic Garden, La Casita, Vote for the party that will truly represent the Institute of Black Culture and UF Hillel you. serve as enduring markers of our campus’ Vote for Change.

Gabriella Aulisio // Alligator Staff commitment to inclusive excellence for stuGator Party’s candidates for student body president, vice president and treasurer dents from underrepresented and minority Written by Natalie McNamera speak during a debate against Change Party moderated by Marna Weston in the backgrounds. on behalf of Change Party.

With recent instances of vandalism and Reitz Union Grand Ballroom Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023.

The views expressed here are not necessarily those of The Alligator.

The Alligator encourages comments from readers. Letters to the editor should not exceed 600 words (about one letter-sized page). They must be typed, double-spaced and must include the author’s name, classification and phone number. Names will be withheld if the writer shows just cause. We reserve the right to edit for length, grammar, style and libel. Send letters to opinions@alligator.org, bring them to 2700 SW 13th St., or send them to P.O. Box 14257, Gainesville, FL 32604-2257.

Columns of about 450 words about original topics and editorial cartoons are also welcome. Questions? Call 352-376-4458.

How to Place a Classified Ad:

Corrections and Cancellations:

Online: w/ major credit card at www.alligator.org/classifieds

In Person: Cash, Check, MC, Discover, AMEX or Visa @The Alligator Office: 2700 SW 13th St. M-F, 8am - 4pm

By E-mail: classified@alligator.org Call 352-373-FIND for information.

By Fax: (352) 376-4556 Sorry, no cash by mail.

By Mail: P.O. Box 14257 G-ville 32604 Credit cards or checks only.

BUY IT. SELL IT. FIND IT. 373-FIND MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2023

Cancellations: Call 373-FIND M-F, 8am - 4pm. No refunds or credits can be given. Alligator errors: Check your ad the FIRST day it runs. Call 373-FIND with any corrections before noon. THE ALLIGATOR IS ONLY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FIRST DAY THE AD RUNS INCORRECTLY. Corrected ads will be extended one day. No refunds or credits can be given after placing the ad. Corrections called in after the first day will not be further compensated.

Customer error or changes: Changes must be made BEFORE NOON for the next day’s paper. There will be a $2.00 charge for minor changes.

www.alligator.org/classifieds

See alligator.org for more information

For Rent

1

10

furnished

NOTE: This newspaper assumes no responsibility for injury or

loss arising from contacts made through advertising. We suggest that any reader who responds to advertising use caution and investigate the sincerity of the advertiser before giving out personal information or arranging meetings or investing money.

SS & VA ARE WELCOME!

$560/BedRoom ● No Deposit! ● Furnished Cable ● Internet ● Utilities “Call or Text” 352-246-3418 4-24-15-1

For Rent

2 2BR FOR RENT

Call: 352-647-6632

4-24-23-15-2

Real Estate

5

NEW CONDOS-WALK TO UF For Info on ALL Condos for Sale, Visit www.UFCONDOS.COM or Matt Price, University Realty, 352-281-3551 4-24-23-15-5

©2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

answer on page 10 Release Date: Monday, February 27, 2023 Release Date: Wednesday, February 15, 2023

Los Puzzle Los Angeles Angeles Times Times Daily Daily Crossword Crossword Puzzle Edited Lewis Editedby byPatti Patti Varol Varol and and Joyce Joyce Nichols Nichols Lewis 3 Spanish port DOWN that’s 1town Beagle whothe pilots namesake of a an imaginary dessert Sopwithwine Camel 42Roman X Like premium 5 Genetic letters streaming 6 Off-rd. ride services 73Thin pancake Communion rounds 8 “Law & Order: 4SVU” Urgent letters actress 5Giddish Narrow piece 6 Foodie 9 __ strip: website region covering 25 that borders metro areas Egypt “__ takers?”

107Uses as a 8foundation Arcade achievements 11 Jerry’s dairy 9 Bad move 10partner Ups the ante 12 11Assn.

Telethon VIPs 15 (in) 12Storm Blight-stricken tree 18 __-ho: 13 __ Moines enthusiastic 18 Grapefruit kin 20 sites 21Holy Succeed 23 24High-pitched “You can come sound out now” 24 completely 25Fill Rights advocacy gp. for DIYers 25 Site 26Male __ Tomé 27 deer and Príncipe 28 Was victorious 27Pushup Recede 31 29muscles Hourglass stuff 33Used Drawto forbe some 33 picturese.g.

35 Pilsner, 35“This Contact lens 36 is the last holders straw for me”

37 option for 37 Roof Uttered 38 some Hr. forCamaros an after38 Convalescent lunch nap, puppy’s maybe 39 accessory Interval of eight 39 Conceal notes 40 Letters on a 40 Cry noisily maybe 41 trophy, Soup with rice 43 “Eighth noodlesGrade” 45 actress Anne ofFisher Green 44 Rely (on)for one Gables, 46 St. Louis and St. 48 “Riverdale” Petersburg, for actress two Huffman

47 “Caught Natural talents 49 50 red-handed!”

Inner turmoil 51 Braces Nutrient(oneself) found in 50 whole grains 52 Nobel-winning 52 chemist “Bein’ __”: JoliotKermit the Curie Frog’s song 53 Process that may 54 involve Similar PT (to)or OT 56 Roofing Allow option 54 57 Of Mine find 58 all time 58 Subway Tailless primate 59 unit 59 “Homeland” gp.

60 “What __ those?”

60 Bio “WandaVision” 61 or chem actress Dennings 62 Moo __ pork

ANSWER PREVIOUS PUZZLE: PUZZLE: ANSWER TO PREVIOUS

are underway…bikes, computers, furniture, vehicles & more. All individuals interested in bidding go to: SURPLUS.UFL.EDU 392-0370

You need the money to do what you will.

Rich at Best Jewelry and Loan has the cash for those bills.

523 NW 3rd Ave 352-371-4367

Goats for Sale & Lease Horse Boarding - 7 miles to UF Charlie - 352-278-1925

12-5-16-10

When the heat is on and it's bucks that you need, Best Jewelry and Loan your requests we will heed.

523 NW 3rd Ave 352-371-4367 4-24-15-10

The surf's up at "Pawn Beach" we're all making the scene.

If you're in need go see Rich, Best Jewelry and Loan's got the "green".

523 NW 3rd Ave 352-371-4367 4-24-15-13 CASH FOR UNWANTED CARS / TRUCKS

Women's size 10-12. Nice ski clothes. Call if interested 352-256-6017 3-6-23-2-10

Autos

to transport cancer patients to treatment.

Flexible schedule.

Training and liability insurance provided.

Please call 800-227-2345 if interested.

Submit your ad today!

●HEADLINERS SAGGING? ●

www.alligator.org/classifieds

● ● Power Windows Don't Work? ● ● 4-24-15-6

On site available. Call Steve 352-226-1973 4-24-23-15-12

CASH FOR UNWANTED CARS / TRUCKS

www.alligator.org/classifieds

J UMB L E

Running or Not. Top Dollar Paid Call 352-259-2020

4-24-23-15-12

alligator classifieds

(352)373-FIND / classified@alligator.org

TM

R

2-27-23

3

4 5

6

02/14/2023 02/15/23

02/27/23

7

CLUE 1. ____ system 5. ____ Airlines 6. Music ____ 7. Pennant, flag CLUE

ACROSS

DOWN

ANSWER BWYUAS L D AT E EDIOV RENABN ANSWER

DUNSDE 1. Abrupt B I O AV I L 2. Brazil neighbor 3. Desert, leave behind DOBANAN ROEDTU 4. Deviation, diversion CLUE: ____ ____ backed out of playing Woodstock at the last minute.

BONUS Complete the crossword puzzle by looking at the clues and

How to play uunnssccrraammbblliengthteheciarncslewdelrest. tWerhsentothseolpvueztzhlee iBs OcoNmUpSle. te,

By Enrique Henestroza Anguiano ©2023 Tribune Content Agency,Fabi LLC By Rebecca Goldstein & Rachel ©2023 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

02/15/23 02/27/23

12-5-16-13

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS NEEDED

SKI CLOTHES 12

Wanted

13

The American Cancer Society Road to Recovery Volunteers Needed!

say: i found it in the alligator

2

www.alligator.org/classifieds

Call 352-259-2020

DONATE YOUR VEHICLE to fund the SEARCH FOR MISSING CHILDREN. FAST FREE PICKUP. 24 hour response. Running or not. Maximum Tax Deduction and No Emission Test Required! Call 24/7: 866-471-2576 2-27-15-12

1

Submit your ad today!

Running or Not. Top Dollar Paid

When the heat is on and it's bucks that you need, Best Jewelry and Loan your requests we will heed.

523 NW 3rd Ave 352-371-4367 4-24-15-10

by David L. Hoyt

Car for sale?

12-5-16-10

ANSWERS: 1A-Subway 5A-Delta 6A-Video 7A-Banner 1D-Sudden 2D-Bolivia 3D-Abandon 4D-Detour B-Bob Dylan

ACROSS ACROSS 1 1Resistance unit Tool that can represented be a musicalby aninstrument omega 4 4__Not and field berthed 9 8BBC cooking Designated to 14competition, Confidentiality fans contract: Abbr.

Spider-Man 1315Battery size co-creator Lee 14 “__ a Mi Mundo”: 16Selena Prophecy source album 17 Get-together with 15 Eddie __: apparel a sketchy vibe? company Beam benderson 1619The Cardinals, 20sports Cookie-based tickers dessert 17 Excessive 21introspection Spanish “those” 22 Salon job 1923In-flight figs. blitz Marketer’s 21 Like many nouns campaign? in “s” 28ending Affirmative 22 Tourist’s replies agenda 2630Bargain Generalfootwear on a chain menu 2931Outcast Sign of healing 3032Bothers __ Cruces, New Mexicoas a 32 Trailing, 34trailer “Yeah, I guess” 36 Pickleball shot 34 Horse coloring Intercom call on 3537Consuming Take Your Child “Succession” in to Work Day? rapid succession, 40say Mud bath spot Bash who 4042Widely shared co-hosts CNN’s image “State of the 41 Stony-faced Union” 4243Container Mo 4544Next Theup Buckeye 48 Argument in favor State 4946New England WNBA officialfall 47activity A few bucks, say 5351Brand bottled ShakeofWeight water and The Flex 55 Headliner Belt, per their infomercials?

56 Reminiscing, and 55what Heaps 17-, 22-, 35-, 56and Limo destination 49-Across all 57have Jack up Nut used to 6159Skating surface makelegend vegan 62 Cubs cheese Banks Cold Hawaiian 6362Reddish brown treat ... or a photo effect directive followed 64 __four outtimes a winin this 65 Suffix with puzzle? nineump63orUnderstood by 66 Pick fewup the tab 6764Nine-digit Despise ID 65 Org. with seven DOWN teams in Canada 166Caravan rest “This Is Spinal Tap” director stops Lyft competitor 267Gesture of 68recognition, Game Boy batteriesor physical metaphorical

●UF Surplus On-Line Auctions●

Furnishings

6

Autos

12

BCI Walk In Tubs are now on SALE! Be one of the first 50 callers and save $1,500! CALL 888-687-0415 for a free in-home consultation.

2-27-27-10

unfurnished

2BR $500/mo

For Sale

2023 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

& Hoyt Designs. All Rights Reserved.

Send comments to TCA - 160 N. Stetson, Chicago, Illinois 60601 or DLHoyt@HoytInteractiveMedia.com

solution on page 10

10 ALLIGATOR MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2023

16 Health Services Alcoholics Anonymous 24-hour hotline #352-372-8091 www.aagainesville.org No dues or fees

Services

Don't Pay For Covered Home Repairs Again!

American Residential Warranty covers ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES. 30 DAY RISK FREE/ $100 OFF POPULAR PLANS. 877-351-2364 2-27-4-15 COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now!

Grants and Scholarships available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! 855-738-9684. (M-F 8am6pm ET). Computer with internet is required.

2-27-4-15 BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available Call: 888-460-2264 2-27-4-15 NEED NEW FLOORING? Call Empire Today® to schedule a FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting & Flooring. Call Today!

855-919-2509 2-27-34-15 UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful New Blinds & Shades. FREE in-home estimates make it convenient to shop from home.

Professional installation. Top quality - Made in the USA. Call for free consultation: 866-6361910. Ask about our specials!

2-27-34-15 Planning to liquidate stereos, TV's, instruments and tools?

See Rich At Best.

He'll give cash for your jewels.

523 NW 3rd Ave 352-371-4367 4-24-15-15 Financial Aid! Go to HowToFindMoneyForCollege.com and type Thurman Lamb in the who referred you box, for free financial aid training!

2-27-23-4-15

(352) 727-4733 www.GatorCPR.com CNA Prep Classes from GatorCNA.com

4-24-23-15-16

Personals

18

When you're stuck out in Oz and you need cash to get home, click your heels three times and think of Best Jewelry and Loan.

523 NW 3rd Ave 352-371-4367 4-24-15-18

19

Connections

The end of the term and the end of your rope, Best Jewelry and Loan is the needy Gator's hope!

523 NW 3rd Ave 352-371-4367 4-24-15-19

20 Events/Notices When cash is low and the bills seem out of reach, Best Jewelry and Loan is the surfer's "PAWN BEACH".

523 NW 3rd Ave 352-371-4367

4-24-15-20

A FREE introduction to bridge The first of every month! For details, information@bridgeingainesville.com 4-3-23-5-20

Entertainment

WALDO FARMERS & FLEA MARKET Vintage & Unique - Like EBay in 3D

Sat & Sun 8-15-13-21

www.WaldoFlea.com

Surf on down to "Pawn Beach" when the tide seems too high.

We're your summer cash friends so your blues will be all sky!

523 NW 3rd Ave 352-371-4367 4-24-15-21

Submit your ad today!

www.alligator.org/classifieds

24

© 2020 King Features Synd., Inc. 1. The media centerAaron, at the U.S. Open Tennis tournament 1. Tommie brother of Hank, hit many homeofruns his seven-seaishow named in honor whatinflamboyantly dressed son Major League Baseball career? journalist and sportscaster?

2. Bill Chadwick, the NHL’s first

DO YOU WANT TO LEARN NEW TRICKS?

21

solution below

Pets

● COMPASSIONATE CANINES ● Service dog, 1 year old Labrador. Farm -raised. Parents on property. $500 down, total $2500, health certificate. 352-472-6099 4-3-23-7-24

2.U.S.-born What 1972 arcade video and game later from Atari was based referee a broadoncaster table tennis? for the New York Rangers, went

by what nickname?

3. Bucky the Bison is the official mascot of what Patriot 3. The name for the Albuquerque League university's athletic programs?

Isotopes Minor League Baseball club

by aforfictional from 4.was Whatinspired document sold $4,338,500team at a Sotheby's whatinTV comedy auction December 2010?series?

4. Jim Covert and Ed Sprinkle, two

5.members Name the French who wonHall 10 Grand of theroadProcyclist Football of Fame of five 2020, entire Tour races,Class including Tour spent de Francetheir victories, from playing careers with what NFL fran1978-85.

chise?

6. Former Majortraditional League BaseballJapanese pitcher Roberto Hernan5. What martial dez by what name before his visa from the Dominiartwent is literally translated as “the way of theRepublic sword”? can was discovered to be fraudulent in 2012?

6. Floyd Mayweather Jr. defeated

7.what According to Abemartial Simpson (voice of Dan Castellaneta) mixed arts superstar in a in2017 a 1995boxing episode ofmegafight "The Simpsons," great has inwhat LasNFL Vegas? "a haircut you couldCroatia-born set your watch to"?basketball 7. What

player won three NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls from 1996-98 and was©the NBASynd., Sixth 20231996 King Features Inc.Man of the Year? answers below Answers 1. 13. He hit eight of them in his 1962 rookie season.

2. TheSudoku Big Whistle. solution 3. The Simpsons.

4. The Chicago Bears.

5. Kendo.

6. Conor McGregor.

7. Toni Kukoc. © 2020 King Features Syndicate, Inc.

OPERATION CATNIP

Spaying/Neutering Free-Roaming Cats Borrow a Trap / Make a Clinic Reservation Make a Donation / Volunteer New Expanded Hours

Lots of NEW info at http://ocgainesville.org/

ScrabbleGrams solution

CryptoQuote solution

16 Health Services Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drug store prices!

50 Pill Special-Only $99! 100% guaranteed.

CALL NOW: 866-259-6816 2-27-33-16

HIV ANTIBODY TESTING Alachua County Health Dept. Call

334-7960 for app’t (optional $20 fee)

Say:

I found it in The Alligator!

Trivia Test answers

Sports Quiz answers

rules of basketball.

5. Bernard Hinault.

6. Fausto Carmona.

7.Johnny Unitas.

15

Need CPR Training?

1. Bud Collins.

2. "Pong."

3. Bucknell University.

4. James Naismith's original

● JANITORIAL CLEANERS NEEDED ● AM and PM shifts. Pay:$13.00/hr Contact: Deidre dkeith@carpetsystemsplus.net 352-258-1357 3-27-5-14

352-376-8008 www.uncoastna.org pr@uncoastna.org

1. The Danube River. 2. -40. 3. "Cheers." 4. "The Hunger Games."

5. Chickpeas or fava beans. 6. A lodge, or a den. 7. "Hairspray."

8. Gwyneth Paltrow. 9. Iroquois tribes in the eastern United States and Canada. 10. 70%-80%.

HIRING OFFICE CLEANERS M-F & every other Sat. Night shift starting at 5:30 p.m. Must own a car / lots of driving.

Weekly pay. $14/hr. If interested please call 352-214-0868 4-24-23-15-14

CALL NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS

King Features Weekly Service

Help Wanted

WE CAN HELP! 24 HOURS 7 DAYS

1.1.GEOGRAPHY: Which river flows through European MEASUREMENTS: How the many capitals of Budapest? inches areVienna in a and mile?

ASTRONOMY: Whataredoes the and 2.2.SCIENCE: At what temperature Fahrenheit acronym SETI mean to the scientific Celsius equal? community?

3.3.TELEVISION: The comedy seriesdoes "Frasier" a spinoff LANGUAGE: What the isLatinof prefix “sub-” mean in English? which sitcom?

U.S. PRESIDENTS: Who was the 4.4.LITERATURE: Whichtonovel features named only president serve twoa character nonconKatniss Everdeen? secutive terms?

LITERATURE: 20th-cen5.5.FOOD & DRINK: What Which kind of beans are used in tury movie star penned the autobiografalafel? phy “Me: Stories of My Life”?

6.6.ANIMAL KINGDOM: What beaver'sthehomefirst called?

HISTORY: Whatis awas National in the 7. THEATER:Monument Which musicalproclaimed features a character named United States?

Tracy Turnblad?

7. GEOGRAPHY: Where is the 8. MOVIES: Which actress plays the young Wendy Darisland of Luzon located? ling in the movie "Hook"?

8. MOVIES: Which sci-fi movie has the tagline, is game a thing of the 9. HISTORY: Who“Reality invented the of lacrosse? past”?

10.

SCIENCE: What percentage of the world's population 9. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What has brown eyes? of the United States’ first was the name nuclear-powered submarine?

10. GAMES: are the © 2023 What King Features Synd.,four Inc. railroad properties in Monopoly?

Answersbelow answers 1. 63,360 inches 2. Search for extraterrestrial intelligence 3. Below or insufficient 4. Grover Cleveland 5. Katharine Hepburn 6. Devils Tower, 1906 7. The Philippines 8. “The Matrix” 9. The USS Nautilus 10. Pennsylvania, Short Line, Reading and B&O

May 25, 2020

14

DRUG PROBLEM?

by Fifi Rodriguez

THE LONGEST ABSENCE IS LESS PERILOUS TO LOVE THAN THE TERRIBLE TRIALS OF INCESSANT PROXIMITY. - EDNA ST. VINCENT MILLAY

St. Francis House is a homeless shelter located in downtown Gainesville.

Our mission is to empower families with children to transition from homelessness to self-sufficiency by providing case management, housing, food, training and educational resources in a secure environment.

If interested in volunteering please contact the volunteer coordinator at 352-378- 9079 ext 317 or sfhcoor@stfrancis.cfcoxmail.com St Francis House depends on monetary support from individual donors and community businesses in order to provide meals to the homeless and the hungry.

To make a donation by mail, please send checks payable to St. Francis House P.O. Box 12491 Gainesville Fl 32604 or our website at Stfrancishousegnv.org

January 27, 2020

Wanted

King Features Weekly Service

13

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2023 www.alligator.org/section/sports

FEATURE

Black women express identity through hair in sports ATHLETES SPEAK ON HAIRSTYLE DIFFERENCES, STRUGGLES AND CRITICISMS

By Namari Lock Sports Writer

Sloane Blakely was 5 years old when she started club gymnastics. For years, she was forced to pull her hair up into a sock bun — a tight bun that was very difficult for Blakely to wrap her coily, coarse hair around.

One day, she decided to wear her hair naturally instead.

“It was a very big deal when I started wearing my hair like this in club,” Blakely said. “My club coach — she didn't like that.

She was not used to it, but that’s how I would always wear my hair for practice, so why not do it for the meet?”

Black women in sports frequently face scrutiny for their hair. Many of them have to jump through hoops in order to maintain practical hairstyles while keeping their identity.

Professional athletes, such as gymnast Gabby Douglas and track runner Sha’Carri Richardson, have received backlash in recent years for the way they style their hair.

Blakely, now a sophomore, competes on

the Gators’ gymnastics team. She hasn’t faced any criticism for her hairstyles since she’s been at Florida, but she recalled her experience with her club team in Texas.

“It’s always been ‘It’s too big,’’” Blakely said. “I always second-guessed — should it be big? But that’s just how my hair is.”

There are four girls on the team who share similar hair textures, UF junior gymnast Alex Magee said. They often discuss how they’re going to do their hair for competitions with each other.

The others wear their hair out more often than Magee, who usually keeps her hair in a protective style in an effort to help it grow.

“I’m trying to grow my hair to my waist …

I don’t touch my hair, I leave it alone,” Magee said. “That’s why I keep it in braids or twists with added hair.”

Magee does her homework days in advance in preparation for braiding her hair.

Sometimes, she’s able to begin braiding her hair in the morning and finish later that same evening, but it can take multiple days for her to complete her hairstyle. If she doesn’t have her hair in braids, instead wearing it out in more of a puff style, Magee sets aside three hours to do her hair for the meet either the day of or the day before.

The girls with straighter, less coarse hair usually do their hair the day of, Magee said.

UF graduate student Trinity Thomas and sophomore Bri Edwards will occasionally help do other gymnasts' hair, only needing about 15 minutes for each girl.

Magee recalls the speculations she would receive in her hometown for the way she would do her hair, especially with hairstyles which included added hair.

“If I want to change my hair, I'm going to change it,” Magee said. “Because nobody else is paying for this, and nobody else is doing my hair. It's me.”

Magee understands people with different hair textures might not understand why she does her hair the way she does. But she also believes there are ways for people to educate themselves and ask questions without being disrespectful.

Her previous coaches — who were uneducated on the history of Black women and their hair — sometimes made comments because they didn’t understand, Magee said.

“They probably weren't around a lot of Black girls growing up or girls who did the things that I did to my hair,” Magee said.

Florida sophomore volleyball player Gabrielle Essix also competes with braids because she finds it easier to style than her natural hair.

GYMNASTICS

BASEBALL

Florida gymnastics earns fifth straight SEC title GATORS SECURE SEC TITLE WITH WIN AGAINST NO. 12 KENTUCKY

By Jori Rzepecki Sports Writer

Graduate student Trinity Thomas stepped off the floor in the Stephen C. O’Connell Center for the final time. Thomas’ teammates embraced her as the Florida Gators gymnastics team earned the title of 2023 Southeastern Conference regular season champions.

Thomas beamed with pride as the Gators hoisted their fifthstraight SEC regular season title, all of which she had been a part of.

The No. 2 Florida Gators (9-1, 6-1 SEC) beat the No. 12 Kentucky Wildcats (7-3, 4-2 SEC) to become SEC champions for the fifth season in a row. Florida’s 198.150-point score — its second-highest score of the 2023 season — surpassed the Wildcats’ score of 197.575 to give UF the SEC title.

Florida head coach Jenny Rowland was ecstatic for her team following its SEC-clinching victory.

SEE FEATURE, PAGE 12

Ryan Friedenberg // Alligator Staff

Florida gymnast Sloane Blakely performs her floor routine in the Gators’ meet against the No. 12 Kentucky Wildcats Friday, Feb. 24, 2023. UF clinched the SEC title with their victory.

“It blows my mind,” Rowland said. “I don’t think they quite understand what a feat that is. The coaching staff most definitely does.”

To kick off the Gators’ successful SEC season, sophomore Leanne Wong reached near perfection against the then-No. 5 Auburn Tigers Jan. 13. She scored 10s in the uneven bars and balance beam to help lift Florida to victory.

Wong joined Thomas and former gymnast Alex McMurtry as one of three Gators in program history to earn two 10s in a single meet.

Freshman Kayla DiCello became one of Florida’s biggest contributors as soon as she stepped foot in the Stephen C. O’Connell Center.

She’s received five SEC Freshman of the Week honors and put up bigtime performances throughout SEC play.

DiCello reached perfection for the first time of her collegiate career against the then-No. 15 Missouri Tigers Feb. 10. She was given a 10 after she delivered a flawless bars routine.

Thomas is also no stranger to success in SEC matchups.

alligatorSports has a podcast!

The alligatorSports Podcast releases episodes every Wednesday and can be streamed on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or your other preferred streaming platform.

The decorated Gator achieved history as the only gymnast in NCAA history to achieve four gym slams — meaning she has scored a perfect score in each event at least four times. She earned her fourthcareer gym slam when she obtained a perfect score on the vault against the then-No. 17 Georgia Bulldogs Jan. 27.

Thomas’ success has been a mainstay throughout the season, and she continues to inch closer to the NCAA record for most 10s in a career. She sits at 25 career 10s, which puts her three away from making history. Her most recent 10 came in the Gators’ loss to the No. 8 Louisiana State Tigers.

Thomas has been a part of the Florida Gators gymnastics team for every year of its reign as SEC regular season champions. Thomas has high hopes for the Gators’ future following their 2023 SEC title win.

Follow our newsletter

Read the rest online at alligator.org/section/sports @jorirzepecki jrzepecki@alligator.org

Love alligatorSports? Stay up to date on our content by following our newsletter. Scan the QR Code to sign up.

Florida flashes power, gains experience in pair of non-conference series GATORS GO 4-1 AGAINST SOUTH FLORIDA, CINCINNATI

By Topher Adams Sports Writer

Freshman designated hitter Luke Heyman stood opposite Cincinnati redshirt senior pitcher Jackson Murphy.

The Florida freshman saw the pitch from the fifth-year righty and launched a deep home run over the Bearcats’ bullpen in left field.

The homer started a run of three straight long balls from the Gators Feb. 26 in a win that punctuated a week of power-hitting and strong offense.

The No. 7 Florida Gators (7-1) won four of five games in a pair of series against the South Florida Bulls and Cincinnati Bearcats. UF flexed its power and hit 18 home runs across the five games, including a program-record eight-homer explosion Feb. 26.

“I don't think I've seen that,” Florida head coach Kevin O’Sullivan said Feb. 26. “Offensively, it was a really good weekend, and we saw some good arms.”

Sophomore two-way player Jac Caglianone powered the Gators’ offensive performance. The sophomore hit six long balls through the five games. He capped off his dominant run with a three-homer performance Feb. 26 against the Bearcats.

Caglianone struggled early on the mound. He hit the second batter he faced and allowed a run after an error. The sophomore left-hander rallied to strike out six batters; he gave up two hits and three runs and walked four batters in just more than four innings of work.

Follow us for updates

For updates on UF athletics, follow us on Twitter at @alligatorSports or online at www.alligator.org/section/sports.

Read the rest online at alligator.org/section/sports @Topher_Adams tadams@alligator.org

12 ALLIGATOR MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2023

Black hairstyles in sports

FEATURE, from pg. 11

“I do wish that I had the choice to experiment with my hair because natural hair is becoming more of a thing,” Essix said. “My natural hair is a little dry sometimes, and it's hard to manage.”

Essix permed and flat-ironed her hair every day as a child to fit in with her predominantly white neighborhood.

“Especially in volleyball,” Essix said. “I really was like ‘Oh, my teammates are over here. So let me be with my teammates,’ … instead of branching out and finding my own identity in the Black community.”

Essix admires South Carolina basketball player Aliyah Boston for the vibrant colors she adds to her braids. However, she doesn’t think she could do a hairstyle like that in her sport, she said.

Because there aren’t as many Black girls in volleyball, Essix feels as though the standards are different than the ones held in basketball.

“Some of the styles that you would see and some of the actions or the way people act are perceived differently on both sides,” Essix said.

She fears her choices would be seen as aggressive, falling into the “angry Black woman” stereotype, if she tried to stand up for herself.

As a result, Essix usually sticks with a sin-

gle hairstyle — one ponytail with a smaller one on top. The ends of her braids are curled, and she thinks that’s why many people want to touch them.

“They'll just come up behind me and randomly pull my hair,” Essix said. “I feel like they don't realize that the hair is very much attached to my head.”

Florida junior Alissa Braxton — a jumper on the Gators’ track and field team — admits there are advantages to participating in predominantly Black sports.

“When we go to compete, there's tons of girls with different hairstyles, different colors,” Braxton said. “I feel like we definitely have versatility and diversity.”

Braxton competed with many different hairstyles in the past. This semester, she will be competing with locs — a hairstyle where the hair is coiled and twisted into a more rope-

like appearance. She usually did her hair before the team traveled so she would only have to neaten it up before the meet.

Now, with the locs, styling is quick and simple.

Braxton promotes the adaptability of Black hair. She believes it evolves over time, and people should be able to style their hair as they want to at the moment.

There are coaches who see makeup, hair and nails as a distraction, Braxton said. She believes this is just part of some athletes’ routines, and it’s how they become more confident for competition.

“We just like to look good, and why not look good doing the things that we love to do?” Braxton said. @Namari_L nlock@alligator.org