Niner Times: March 25, 2014

In a debate last week, student body president candidates discuss issues relevant to students. Voting in the general student body election is this week. p.3

‘Bad Words’

A Q&A with Jason Bateman, director of “Bad Words,” which opens in theaters Friday, March 28. p. 8

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SPRING FEVE R

A 24-page NT special insert, previewing everything Niners need to know and more for spring 2014.

Weekend series

The Charlotte 49ers baseball team dropped yet another weekend series, this time against the ECU Pirates. p. 13

A PRODUCT OF STUDENT NINER MEDIA • THE UNIVERSITY CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTE • VOL. 26, MARCH 25 OF - 31,NORTH 2014 N I ISSUE N E R T23 IMES

MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

Volume 26, Number 23 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

COMMUNITY EDITOR

EDEN CREAMER

PATRICK BOGANS

EDITOR@NINERONLINE.COM

MANAGING@NINERONLINE.COM

NEWS EDITOR

SPORTS EDITOR

CLAIRE DODD

LIBBY WEIHSMANN

NEWS@NINERONLINE.COM

SPORTS@NINERONLINE.COM

A&E EDITOR

LIFESTYLE EDITOR

LIZ LANIER

MICHELLE LIRINGIS

AE@NINERONLINE.COM

LIFESTYLE@NINERONLINE.COM

OPINION EDITOR

COPY EDITOR

JORDAN SNYDER

ASHLEY SPEECE

OPINION@NINERONLINE.COM

COPY@NINERONLINE.COM

PHOTO COORDINATOR

CHRIS CREWS

PHOTO@NINERONLINE.COM

ASSISTANT EDITORS Sara Carson, Matt Chapman, Ariel Clayborn, Amanda Duke, Jon Gregory, Leanna Pough

ADDITIONAL STAFF Naisla Barreto, Sean Grier, Chester Griffin, Andrew James, Kristen Kimbrough, Billy Lincourt, Ricky Matthews, Aaron McCain, David Wolf

NEWSROOM: 704.687.7150 MEDIA MARKETING MARKETING DIRECTOR

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

EMMANUEL LOREDO

MEGAN VAN EMMERIK

MKTDIRECTOR@UNCC.EDU

PRODUCTION@UNCC.EDU

CIRCULATION STAFF Student Union Loading Dock Team

Circulation Manager: Precious Sheff

MARKETING STAFF Courtney Bartlett, Louis Bernasconi, Alyssa Fronk,

3 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

DEBATE REVIEW CRIME BLOTTER AND WEATHER OP-ED: INTERNSHIPS ‘BAD WORDS’ SPRING SEQUELS STUDENT LOAN DEBT BOOK REVIEW GROUP FITNESS CLASS BASEBALL RECAP

Lexy Price, Nathan Propst & Dylan Robison

SALES OFFICE: 704.687.7144

Also in this issue A 24-page NT special insert, previewing everything Niners need to know and more for spring 2014.

Follow us on Twitter @UNCCmedia LOCATED IN THE LOWER LEVEL OF THE STUDENT UNION NINER TIMES • RADIO FREE CHARLOTTE SANSKRIT • MEDIA MARKETING • NINERONLINE THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTE NINER MEDIA ADVISER: WAYNE MAIKRANZ BUSINESS MANAGER: LAURIE CUDDY

MARKETING ADVISER: KELLY MERGES

GRAPHICS & PRODUCTION: PETE HURDLE

OFFICE MANAGER: MARK HAIRE

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COVER PHOTO BY CHRIS CREWS • INSIDE PHOTO BY CHRIS CREWS

MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

NINERTIMES

Student body president candidates discuss student involvement, transparency in SGA and more during the annual Student Body President Debate CLAIRE DODD NEWS EDITOR

Niner Times Assistant News Editor Sara Carson (left) moderated Thursday’s debate between (from left to right) Omar Ramirez, Steven Serio and Venson Nunnaley. Photo by Chris Crews

As the spring semester comes to a close, elections for 2014-15 student body president, vice president and student senators open.

To prepare for the elections on March 25 and 26, Student Niner Media held their annual Student Body President Debate, allowing the candidates for the head of the Student Government Association’s (SGA) executive branch to discuss campus issues in a public setting, and allow students to get to know the candidates before voting.

Three candidates campaign this year for the student body president position: Steven Serio, Venson Nunnaley and Omar Ramirez.

NINERONLINE.COM

The debate was moderated by Niner Times Assistant News Editor, Sara Carson.

The first question Carson asked the candidates was, “What do you see as the biggest challenge SGA will face with the growing student body on campus?”

Serio, a junior finance major, believes that a growing student body will result in outraged students. He wants more students to realize the benefits that SGA has. In turn, Serio plans for him and his running mate, Ruthie Schorr to communicate more with students by having face-to-face contact with them.

“We already have 27,000 students

on campus and not a lot of students really know about SGA and what it can do for them,” said Serio.

Nunnaley, a public health major, took the same stance as Serio.

He believes communication is an important aspect in spreading the word about SGA’s position on campus. However, instead of face-toface contact, Nunnaley would like to see a monthly email sent out as well as more SGA events on campus, broadcasted on televisions in buildings like Cone and Prospector.

Nunnaley believes this would demonstrate how the senate is improving UNC Charlotte and what their plans are for the future.

MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

Carson then asked, “Where do you think your responsibilities as student body president would end?”

Nunnaley was the first to respond, stating that he would like to see clearer roles established and see more accountability.

Ramirez, a social work major, sees his responsibilities ending as student body president, “after I had empowered the students.” He would provide new legislation, meet up with student leaders and attend student organizations events.

“My responsibility would end once I started having to do the work for the students,” said Ramirez.

Serio agreed with Ramirez in that

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Venson Nunnaley “Winning to me would mean having the opportunity to change the student body and SGA for the positive.

A new perspective is needed. That’s what we’re running on and that’s what I want to bring to the table.”

Omar Ramirez

The debate took place in the Student Union rotunda and attracted a large crowd of students, staff and faculty. the SGA should utilize the cabinet more as well as be an outreach.

However, this is something he has seen in the past.

“I don’t think my responsibilities as student body president would necessarily ever end until the next student body president comes into power,” said Serio.

From his experience as Secretary of Internal Affairs in the executive cabinet two years ago, Serio believes that he is very familiar with specific duties in the SGA. “We need to capitalize on new things,” said Serio.

Transparency has been a primary issue in student government this past year. “How would you improve transparency with SGA?” asked Carson.

Ramirez wants many changes within student government. He would like to redo their website and input new information. This way, more students could see what is occurring within SGA. Ramirez also believes that there is a lack of communication within student government. He plans for more meetings to occur amongst the

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three branches.

A new idea Ramirez brought to the debate was the idea of 49er town hall meetings.

“It would be something like this [debate] where the executive board is on stage, myself, Briana Cragwell [running mate] and an appointed number from the executive cabinet,” explained Ramirez. “We would invite all students to come and speak up about how they felt about being supported or not supported by the university.”

Another idea Ramirez wants to employ is for the Secretary for Academic and Student Affairs to hold more power over student organizations.

“These are going to be foot soldiers for the executive branch,” said Ramirez.

He wants students and organizations to become very familiar with these cabinet members.

Serio explained how two years ago he experienced a very transparent student government while serving on the executive branch.

“Through the minutes and keeping

Photo by Chris Crews

the recordings, you’re able to see hours after the meeting exactly what we talked about in the executive branch,” said Serio.

This is an idea Serio would like to bring back to SGA if he became president.

Serio is also interested in strengthening the use of social media accounts. He noted that all meetings are open and anyone is welcome.

Serio agreed with Ramirez in that he wants the judicial branch to be more connected with the executive and legislative branches because, “they are all core foundations of the student government,” he said.

Other than communicating with the student body, Nunnaley wants to see more involvement with student organizations.

“If you let people know what’s going on and have programs for students to come to and be able to know what you’re actually doing, then this is going to improve student involvement and help transparency,” said Nunnaley.

Carson posed the fourth question.

“About five percent of the student

MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

“Winning to me would mean that I would impact a lot of types of students.

I would reach areas or bases on campus that have not been reached by prior student body presidents. This is definitely going to be a transitional year if I win and it would be a really good one for UNC Charlotte.”

Steven Serio “Having the goal since I was a freshman and just working my way up there through experience and SGA. It would be an honor and a privilege to be able to serve the student body population and hopefully better the Charlotte community.”

Photos by Chris Crews

NINERTIMES

Venson Nunnaley and running mate Ann Elise Pennington

Omar Ramirez and running mate Briana Cragwell

Steven Serio and running mate Ruthie Schorr

The president and vice president candidates were all present at Thursday’s debate and each had a chance to address the members of the student body in attendance. Photos by Chris Crews

body voted in last year’s student body presidential election. If you aren’t getting feedback from the student body, how can you address their concerns, and in turn, be their voice?”

Serio remains optimistic about voter turnout. Despite the five percent turnout last year, Serio hopes for a 10 to 20 percent voting turnout this year.

Nunnaley believes candidates should market themselves better, but wants to see more ways of spreading the word about the election.

“I see flyers in some buildings on the corkboard; that’s apparently not enough,” said Nunnaley. “Ultimately it comes down to getting the word out more.”

Ramirez approached the podium with a confident response.

“My answer is going to be short: if you’re not hearing back from the student body, you’re not going to be able to help them,” he said.

“We have to make SGA relevant … meet students where they’re at. How do we bring you to SGA?” The eighth debate question was sent in via Twitter by UNC Charlotte student Megan Hennings.

“What are your plans for increasing student attendance at athletic events, especially football?”

Nunnaley believes this is tied to school spirit.

“If the student body really wants these issues addressed, then if I’m elected, I will go meet with Judy Rose and Dean Reed Davis,” said

Voting for the student body president/vice president tickets, as well as student senate positions, begins Tuesday, March 25, at 8 a.m. and closes Wednesday, March 26, at 5 p.m.

To vote, log in using NinerNet credentials at

vote.uncc.edu

Election results will be announced Thursday, March 27, at 12 p.m., in the Student Organizations Complex.

For more on the candidates, view their profiles at NinerOnline.com

NINERONLINE.COM

Nunnaley. He addressed the idea of moving tailgating to the Student Union because it’s closer to where the alumni are.

He said this is also a shorter walk for students, and believes this change will in turn help increase student turnout to events.

In response to Nunnaley, Serio rebutted that it is impossible to make the change of lots because Lot 5 is a big donor lot, and Lot 25 is where the light rail is going to be in three years.

“Unfortunately it is not feasible,” said Serio.

He also touched on Nunnaley’s point about school spirit.

“We want to be able to get students to wake up Saturday morning and say ‘Yes! The game’s today and we’re going!’” said Serio.

Ramirez used his experience as a residential advisor to show how he would use their help, as well as that of residential coordinators, to rally students to the games.

The presidential candidates concluded the debate, having each touched on important campus issues in front of an audience that averaged about 60 to 70 individuals, ranging from students to staff members.

A full video of the debate is available at NinerOnline.com.

MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

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POLICE BLOTTER MARCH 15 - 21

ACCIDENT MARCH 15

• Craver Road, subject reported that a bicyclist struck her vehicle while attempting to park.

KRISTEN KIMBROUGH INTERN

MARCH 18

At the Thursday, March 18 meeting of the Student Government Association (SGA) Student Senate, senators heard multiple new bills and acts, and voted on some.

Opening Comments Dean Christine Davis invited senators to attend the Student Body President Debate, hosted by Student Niner Media, after the meeting.

Senator Jason Hartsoe stated that next week the senate plans to hold nominations for chair positions.

Senator Ruthie Schorr asked for her fellow senators to help get the word out about the upcoming SGA elections via Facebook.

Financial Bill Senator John Daley came to the front of the room to discuss the Financial Bill. He read a list of the organizations that requested grants, most of which were approved by the Organizational Ways and Means Committee.

Senator Tim Wallace made a motion to approve the Financial Bill.

It was approved.

The Rentable Charger Act Senator Chris Cunningham took the floor to discuss a

FOLLOW FOR FORECASTS AND WARNINGS

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The Union Walkway Act The Union Walkway Act is a resolution to widen the walkway between the Union and the Union Deck to a width of 84 inches from its current width of approximately 48 to 50 inches.

The act says the walkway is not wide enough to accommodate current foot traffic.

The cost of doing this is currently unknown.

This was the first read of the act at a senate meeting. Senators will revisit the act next week.

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

48°F

45°F

55°F

MARCH 25

@UNCCWeather

resolution to provide phone and laptop chargers.

According to this bill, the library would provide chargers for Mac Books, Androids and iPhones 4 and 5.

Hartsoe asked why they did not include PC chargers; Wallis replied that it is because there is too much variety amongst PC chargers.

When Schorr asked how many of each type of charger would be available, Cunningham said it was for the library to decide.

Senator David McHenry asked how they would prevent theft of the chargers. Cunningham said they might use student IDs as collateral.

The act will be discussed again at next week’s senate meeting.

Rain showers with a possible snow mix.

Low of 34.

MARCH 26

Mostly sunny.

Low of 27.

MARCH 27

Mostly sunny.

Low of 28.

New Student Organization Approval Bill Daley came to the front of the room to discuss the New Student Organization Approval Bill.

The organization that asked for approval is the UNC Charlotte Sailing Club. Their dues are $25 per person. In positive debate, Senator Hughes said it is exciting to hear that UNC Charlotte may have a sailing club.

The organization was approved.

The Foot Opener Act The Foot Opener Act, a resolution to install foot openers on the doors of all public bathrooms on campus, was read at Thursday’s senate meeting.

Foot openers would have a rubber coating. There will still be hand door openers.

Senators did not vote on the act at this meeting.

President of the senate James Shaw asked for comments and announcements.

Hartsoe reminded the senators that next week there will be open nominations and asked senators to think “if you’re ready to step up.”

The Thursday, March 27 meeting of the Student Senate is open to the public.

FRIDAY

MARCH 28

65°F

Rain showers.

Low of 46.

MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

SATURDAY MARCH 29

67°F

Mostly cloudy.

Low of 46.

• Lot 25, subject reported that her vehicle was struck while parked and unattended.

MARCH 19

• South Deck, officer responded to a single car crash.

MARCH 20

• Van Landingham Road, subject reported that she was struck by a vehicle. Subject declined medical assistance.

• Mary Alexander Road, driver of vehicle two was struck by vehicle one.

ARREST

MARCH 19

• Van Landingham Road, subject was arrested for outstanding warrant.

CALLS FOR SERVICE MARCH 16

• Poplar Terrace Drive, officer responded to a call regarding a welfare check.

LARCENY MARCH 17

• Campus Pointe Court, officer assisted CMPD regarding a robbery off campus.

MARCH 18

• Craver Road, subject reported that his wallet was stolen.

MARCH 21

• Cameron Blvd., an unknown subject removed property from a vehicle that was left unattended and unsecured.

• Library Lane, an unknown subject removed property without permission.

For more information on Mecklenburg County arrests, visit arrestinquiryweb.co.mecklenburg.nc.us

NINERTIMES

SAILING THE INTERNSHIP MCT Campus

WHEN APPLYING FOR INTERNSHIPS, STUDENTS NEED TO KNOW HOW TO GET THE POSITION, HOW TO KEEP THE POSITION AND THEIR LEGAL RIGHTS AS INTERNS.

SEAN GRIER INTERN

Spring is upon us, and that means it’s also time to start actively looking for summer and fall internships, if you haven’t already. For those who are challenged in résumé building, go to the Career Center during walk-in hours or make an appointment.

When searching for internships, it’s easier to start internally at home and school. Your parents might have connections, or your professors might be connected to outside resources and networks; if you are smart, you will take advantage of these opportunities.

Internships are the pinnacle of an academic year. You can potentially receive academic credit at UNC Charlotte, and in some cases, you get paid to learn – even if it’s not always monetarily.

At these internships, you will meet people from all walks of life. Do not be shocked – it’s all part of the experience. While meeting your colleagues, communicate effectively, do not set the precedence for workplace gossip and do not vent to co-workers; save that for therapy time with friends.

Although we are all adults, someone always misses the boat on what to do and what not to do.

You might see some of your 49er friends walking to advising meetings in pajamas or going to class hung-over, wearing yesterday’s clothes.

Unfortunately, some students will land themselves an internship that is not beneficial to them – and one that just might be illegal. Yes, even unpaid interns have rights in the work place, according to the Department of Labor.

A recent court case and decision by Judge

William H. Pauley III involving defendant Fox Searchlight Pictures and two plaintiffs found that, “Interns whose work is not similar to vocational training given in an educational environment, whose work is more beneficial to the employer than the intern, or whose work displaces another employee are illegal.” This finding is in conjunction with Department of Labor guidelines.

The purpose of an internship is to learn, network and grow, so hopefully you will not have to deal with these issues. If you ever find yourself in a situation where something doesn’t feel right, remember these Department of Labor guidelines for unpaid interns: • The internship, even though it includes actual operation of the facilities of the employer, is similar to training which would be given in an educational environment; • The internship experience is for the benefit of the intern; • The intern does not displace regular employees, but works under close supervision of existing staff; • The employer that provides the training derives no immediate advantage from the activities of the intern; and on occasion, its operations may actually be impeded; • The intern is not necessarily entitled to a job at the conclusion of the internship; and • The employer and the intern understand that the intern is not entitled to wages for the time spent in the internship.

EDITORIAL POLICY Niner Times is written and produced by students at UNC Charlotte. All unsigned editorials are the expressed opinion of the editorial board and do not represent the views of the University. Views expressed in signed editorials are solely those of the author. Niner Times is published on Tuesdays during the regular academic year except during holidays and exam periods.

NINERONLINE.COM

THE DOS AND DON’TS

OF INTERNSHIPS DO

• Be aware of your security settings on social media.

• Write thank you letters (not emails) to employers.

• Set goals for yourself, and communicate your expectations to your superiors.

• Take advantage of any networking opportunities.

• Create a LinkedIn profile. Ask your coworkers before sending requests.

• Ask for feedback throughout your internship.

GIVE US SOME FEEDBACK Niner Times welcomes letters. Feedback should be under 200 words, legibly written or typed and should include the author’s signature, year in school, major and telephone number. Faculty and staff should include title and department. Unsigned, anonymous letters will not be printed. All letters are subject to editing for space and style.

MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

DO NOT

• Expect all internships to be paid. In the United States, only 46 percent of interns were paid last year.

• Arrive late. Communicate any unforeseen circumstances to your superiors.

• Log into Facebook or Twitter while on the clock.

• Be afraid to ask questions.

• End on bad terms with your superiors.

Your next application could depend on their evaluation.

SUBMIT LETTERS TO:

NINER TIMES Student Union, Charlotte, N.C. 28223 OR E-MAIL:

editor@nineronline.com

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NOT-SO-BAD WORDS WITH

JASON BATEMAN The actor makes his directorial debut in his new comedy “Bad Words” LEANNA POUGH ASST. A&E EDITOR

Jason Bateman’s directorial debut “Bad Words” allows the actor a taste of what it’s like on the other side of creating a film. Already proving his sustainability as an actor, Bateman says directing has always been a goal, so receiving creative control for his new film “Bad Words” was a dream scenario.

Bateman is most known for his roles in “Identity Theft,” “Horrible Bosses” and “Hancock.” His dark humor with a touch of sophistication serves well in helping him build his profile as an actor and enough capital and relevance to ask for the directing reigns.

There is plenty more of that dark brand of humor in “Bad Words.” The film follows Guy Trilby, a sardonic high school dropout who seeks payback by attempting to win a gradeschool spelling bee. The 40-some-

thing is able to participate through a loophole in the contest rules, and unexpectedly finds a friend in young Chaitanya (Rohan Chand) in spite of their age gap.

Bateman steps up to the director’s plate and executes a long-awaited mile marker that he says fuels growth and drives him to raise the bar.

“Personally I was able to accomplish something we all try to get to at some point in our lives, which is being proud of yourself,” says Bateman.

Now on the selling side of things, Bateman notes the differences in the creative roles of acting verses directing.

“With acting you’re trying to convince people that you’re someone different and with directing you’re trying to create a fake world for the

Photo courtesy of Focus Features

audience and shape an experience.

Other elements than acting can attribute,” says Bateman.

While Bateman changes creative capes, he’s also departing from his role as a “sweetheart.”

In his new comedy “Bad Words,”

Bateman plays a deeply wounded man who doesn’t have the skill set to bond with kids or be socially acceptable.

“Bad Words” will be in theaters everywhere Friday, March 28.

Q&A WITH JASON BATEMAN Q: HOW WAS IT WORKING WITH SUCH COMEDIC TALENTS LIKE KATHRYN HAHN, PHILLIP BAKER HALL AND ALLISON JANNEY? A: I was very lucky and I owe them big. I didn’t have to give them a lot of direction ‘cause those guys are Jedi Knights.

Q: HOW IS YOUR PERSONAL APTITUDE AS A SPELLER? A: Well, I’m a decent speller, probably better than my wife. That’s all that matters.

Q: WHAT WAS IT LIKE BEING ON THE SELLING SIDE OF THINGS? A: It was very exciting having a company that I really respect ending up respecting this movie.

Q: DO YOU PLAN ON DIRECTING IN THE FUTURE? A: Yeah, I would love to direct full time if they would have me. More realistically … it would probably be something like what Ben Stiller does or Ben Affleck.

Photo courtesy of Focus Features

NINERONLINE.COM

MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

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SPRING IS BLOOMING WITH MOVIE SEQUELS Photo courtesy of Marvel and Columbia Pictures

CHESTER GRIFFIN STAFF WRITER

While spring may have finally arrived, these upcoming movies should give you a reasonable excuse to stay indoors.

“MUPPETS MOST WANTED”

In this follow-up to the 2011 hit, “The Muppets,” Kermit the frog is framed as an international thief and imprisoned while the real criminal and his doppelganger, Constantine the frog poses as the Muppets’ veteran leader.

The film stars Ricky Gervais as Constantine’s partner in crime; Ty Burrell as the French inspector Jean Pierre Napoleon; and Tina Fey as one of the Russian officers guarding Kermit. “Muppets Most Wanted” opens in theaters on March 21.

“THE RAID 2: BERANDAL”

In this upcoming sequel, Iko Uwais returns as Rama. Once a part of a tactical S.W.A.T. unit, he now tries to live a normal life with his wife and firstborn child. It isn’t until other crime lords become aware of his deeds from the previous film that Rama must go undercover as a member of the Bangun crime family in order to protect his family and expose the police corruption.

Already boasting a high score on Rotten Tomatoes, “The Raid 2: Berandal” is sure to deliver the same insane action and shootouts as the first one did. The film opens on limited release in theaters on March 28.

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“CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER”

While struggling to adapt to a modern day setting, Steve Rogers/ Captain America (Chris Evans), now forced to battle with his former friend-turned-assassin, The Winter Soldier (Sebastian Stan). “Captain America: The Winter Solider” opens in theaters on April 4.

“THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 2”

Andrew Garfield slings back into action as Peter Parker/Spider-Man as he tries to decipher secrets about his father’s past. Now trying to keep his love, Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone) out of harms way, Parker will face his greatest adversaries yet: Electro, The Green Goblin and The Rhino.

Opens in theaters on May 2.

ACROSS 1 Gp. co-founded by Victor Herbert 6 Bonkers 10 Harbinger 14 Cheri of “Scary Movie” 15 “... __ the dreadful thunder / Doth rend the region”: “Hamlet” 16 Gossipy Barrett 17 Specific gravity 20 Vietnamese observance 21 Hitch 22 Vintage cars 23 Onetime Kenny G label 25 Play with robots 26 Linebacker Manti __, 2012 Heisman Trophy finalist 29 Publicly traded investment company with a limited number of shares

MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

33 Wagner works 34 Do a hitch in the military 35 Put away 38 Dove competitor 40 Slangy turnarounds 41 Settings for Manet 43 Finished a flighttraining requirement 45 Mad man?

48 Agnus __ 49 Auction ending?

50 Take out 53 1977 medical novel 55 Time of jour 57 Baa maid?

58 Classic children’s novel, and what to look for in this puzzle’s three other longest answers 62 __ of Sandwich 63 “This can’t be happening!”

64 Script parts

65 Additionally 66 E or G, e.g.

67 A bit daft DOWN 1 Angiogram image 2 Take the helm 3 Irish musical ensemble __ Woman 4 Altar constellation 5 Road trip refresher 6 __ lamp 7 Universal donor’s type, briefly 8 Food fish 9 Successful squeeze play result 10 “... __ they say” 11 What humidity measures 12 Forest friend of Frodo 13 Dissenting vote 18 “Hold your horses, I’m coming” 19 Unhip types 24 Like right-lane traffic, usually 25 Goodwill store transaction 27 Green condition?

28 Laudatory verses 30 Helpful tip for a puzzle solver?

31 “Behind the Candelabra” co-star 32 Like the Middle Ages 35 Large quantity 36 Account 37 Company bigwigs 39 “Get it, daddy-o?”

42 Note next to a red F, maybe 44 Green shade 46 Church VIP 47 “You __ worry” 51 “Rockin’ Robin” chorus word 52 Itty 54 Peace Prize city 55 On its way 56 Platte River tribe 58 Leaves in a bag 59 Kubrick’s out-of-control computer 60 Sigma preceder 61 2016 Olympics host

NINERTIMES

WHEN STUDENT LOAN DEBT COMES A-KNOCKIN’ MANY STUDENTS STRUGGLE WITH STUDENT LOAN DEBT. HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO PLAN AHEAD TO PAY THEM OFF BEFORE THEY BECOME OVERWHELMING NICOLE CIESLAK GUEST WRITER

It’s a pest, a party pooper, a mood crusher. It’s a looming cloud above your head nudging your arm away from the new arrivals at H&M or the must-have video game you’ve been itching to play.

No, it’s not your conscience (well, it might be), it’s college tuition and it’s not going away any time soon.

Having surpassed $1 trillion in 2012, the student loan debt clock keeps ticking. Each year, tuition rises and loan amounts increase, placing a burden on the wallet and the mind.

As students prepare for graduation, the fear of not securing a job becomes real, as does the concern for cost of living and loan repayments.

But, fear not - there are simple yet effective ways for students to borrow less during school so that the amount is not as intimating come graduation.

Now, of course, some of these ways are nuanced like going to school in-state, applying for financial aid and scholarships, starting out at a community college or even living at home.

Chances are the typical college student has already considered a few, if not all of these options, and is still facing a mounting wall of loan debt.

Rachel Rowan from Tuition.io adds a few more savvy college saving tips to the list, suggesting students to:

Consider working throughout school

While it’s a nice idea to be able to be able to devote 100 percent to their studies and not have to work, realistically that may not be the best approach to take. If students can work part-time while in school to chip in for expenses so they can borrow less, many will be much better off in the long run.

Minimize borrowing

It may be tempting to borrow beyond what is needed for tuition and books just because it’s available. Many like to create a financial “buffer,” but it’s important to think very carefully before over-borrowing. Think one word - interest.

Understand the loan agreement

Far too many borrowers don’t understand what they’re agreeing to when they take out a student loan. Read everything closely before signing it and ask as many questions as needed to understand what the terms of the loan are.

Student loans can last from 10 to 25 years (or even longer if you’re struggling), so they are not something to enter into lightly.

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But, even still, carefully selecting a loan provider might not be enough.

A student can ask all of the necessary questions and still end up with a $10,000 loan per year. And it can be disheartening.

Many students live well within

their means, spend carefully and save often, but still cannot escape high debt.

Mary Thompson of CNBC offers up new unconventional ways for students to save on tuition. She suggests students:

Take online courses

According to the University at Albany, the State University of New York, by offering massive open online courses (MOOCs) at universities, tuition costs could be cut by a third.

MOOCs have been around for years, but improvements in interactive technology, a tech-savvy generation and a desire by schools to keep costs under control, all appear to be coming together to form an inflection point for their use.

Find a helping hand in a crowd

Because families are contributing fewer savings to pay for their college students’ education, some students are looking for crowd-funding with online platforms like Pave.

A new phenomenon, companies like Pave link investors with approved applicants. The investors are interested in putting their money to work in people, rather than products or companies.

Seek Alumni to fund start-ups

These days a growing number of alumni are doing just that, investing in companies started by students and graduates of their alma maters.

As the number of student entrepreneurs increases across universities, more alumni are stepping in to help with funding.

So fear not college student, the future is bright and your pocket light—lighter, anyway.

The cost of college shouldn’t be a deterrent because there are always little things that can be done to ease the strain and cut the cost.

Now, whether or not students

MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

take advantage falls into their own hands, but the well-informed can sleep soundly knowing there are simple solutions to borrow less and slow the clock.

It’s just a matter of planning accordingly and seizing the opportunity.

NINERTIMES

DIVERGENT

BY VERONICA ROTH MICHELLE LIRINGIS LIFESTYLE EDITOR

The latest young adult franchise is the “Divergent” series.

The movie based on the New York Times bestselling novel

by Veronica Roth hit theaters last weekend.

Roth followed suit of many young adult novels in creating a futuristic or post-apocalyptic world. In her world, society is divided into “factions,” and each person takes an aptitude test at 16 to discover which faction for which they are best suited.

The results are kept secret.

Following the aptitude test, there is a “choosing day,” where they decide if they will stick with the results of the test or choose something else.

The main character Tris’s aptitude test was inconclusive: she is a “divergent.”

Divergents are difficult to control and therefore are normally killed.

Additionally, not having conclusive results from the aptitude test makes it more difficult to choose a faction.

Tris chooses then tries to blend in with her faction and hide her divergence.

Roth chose to write her novel in first person from Tris’s point of view.

This decision allowed for readers to closely watch Tris’s transformation throughout the story as she encounters the obstacles that come with being divergent.

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First person allowed for readers to more closely follow Tris and identify with her struggles.

Because it is a young adult novel, her target audience of readers will relate to Tris’s struggle to fit in and find her place.

However, that’s not to say an older audience of readers cannot enjoy the story or even relate.

As college students, we are all often struggling to find our place in the world whether it be on campus or out in the work force.

“Divergent” has frequently been compared to “The Hunger Games.” While the series have similar features (a strong heroine, a futuristic setting and a society divided up into groups, factions or districts), Roth has created her own world.

Her characters are well developed and original, and her world comes with its own rules and stipulations.

The similarities in plot lines and story elements is due to what is popular with readers in this day and age.

The story was for the most part original and captivating.

In the middle, it started to feel slightly repetitive, but it definitely redeemed itself at the end.

This novel is worth picking up. Four stars.

MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

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DON’T JUST PUMP IT, BODY PUMP IT BIKINI SEASON IS COMING: NEED TO AMP UP YOUR REGULAR GYM ROUTINE? TRY BODY PUMP TO GET FIT, HAVE FUN AND GET THE SUMMER BODY YOU WANT NAISLA BARRETO INTERN

Summer is just around the corner but if you are not summer body ready, do not worry. Go to the group fitness class Body Pump.

The instructor for Body Pump, Harriet Reeves, is even more of a reason to go to the class. Three years ago she weighed around 250 pounds and decided to change her life.

Thanks to her love for Body Pump, she lost 80 pounds and then decided to help other people work for their dream bodies with the help of Body Pump.

Body Pump is not like other group fitness classes we are used to. There is no dancing and it is not

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cardio.

“It is a class that allows you to gain and build strength,” says Reeves. The one hour class consists of using weight lifting equipment such as a bar bell, weights, mats and a bench.

In Body Pump, while listening to upbeat music, you get to work out your legs, arms, chest, back, abs and shoulders.

The class allows you to go at your own pace and you get to decide how much weight you want to lift.

Reeves demonstrates each exercise before starting and walks around the class to make sure every student is doing it prop-

Body Pump instructor, Harriet Reeves Photo by Naisla Barreto

erly.

Body Pump literally pumps you to work out your body, and although there is no cardio involved, you will leave the class with the best feeling of a

MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

sweaty T-shirt and sore muscles.

The class is every Monday and Friday at 12:30 p.m., and Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m.

NINERTIMES

SWEPT AGAIN

The Charlotte 49ers baseball team has yet to find a way to win a game in Conference USA play. This weekend they were swept by the ECU Pirates. Can the 49ers save their season?

AARON MCCAIN INTERN

A frustrated Charlotte 49ers baseball team after the weekend series loss to the ECU Pirates. Photo by Chris Crews

The Charlotte 49ers (3-16-1, 0-9) gave it their all against the ECU Pirates (13-11, 6-3) in a weekend series, but came up short in all three games and now remain winless in Conference USA. The 49ers have not won a game since March 11 when the picked up a win over VCU. Game 1 In the first game of the series on Friday night inside Robert and Mariam Hayes Stadium, the 49ers came up short in the 5-3 loss. In a game that was decided by defense,

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the better team that was able to get hot on the mound ran away with the win.

After two scoreless innings, the 49ers got on the scoreboard first with an RBI from second baseman T.J. Nichting.

Nichting lead the team in hits for the day with just two. Charlotte Head Coach Loren Hibbs had only positive things to say about Nichting after the game.

“T.J. is gonna be a good player. He’s aggressive and puts every ounce of energy into every single game,” said Hibbs.

As the game transitioned into the seventh inning, both teams displayed a tremendous

MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

combination of defense and pitching as both went scoreless.

The 49ers streak of holding the Pirates scoreless came to an end in the seventh inning.

The no-scoring streak was in part thanks to right-handed pitcher Corey Roberts.

Roberts finished the day with a 3.56 ERA and allowing only one run.

“I thought [Roberts] threw well last weekend at Middle Tennessee. He kept us in the game and gave us a chance to stay in the game,” said Hibbs.

“We are going to need for him to keep

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throwing well. He is a fifth-year senior and he has pitched at a high level.”

ECU right-handed pitcher Ryan Williams pitched the final two innings for the Pirates posting a 0.91 ERA and allowed only one hit.

“I thought [Williams] out of the bullpen threw really well for them for about two weeks. He has a good split and that is something we do not see in practice ever. It is very different from anything that I have ever seen,” said Hibbs.

After two RBIs in the bottom of the seventh inning, the 49ers looked destined to snap their three-game losing streak after taking a 3-1 lead heading into the eighth inning.

The 49ers ran out of gas and the Pirates got hot on the mound.

The 49ers’ strategy for subbing fresh pitchers into the game was not able to hold off the Pirates in the ninth inning.

The Pirates went on to score three runs in the ninth inning to take the lead for the first time in the game and it seemed as if the life had been sucked out the stadium.

The only celebration heard was from the fans wearing purple and gold. The 49ers could not respond and fell to the Pirates 5-3.

Game 2 Sunday’s baseball game was moved to Saturday forcing a doubleheader showdown thanks to the unpredictable North Carolina weather.

In the first game of the doubleheader, Charlotte was unable to squeeze out their first conference win against ECU. Game one was a game with a packed stadium and a game of disappointment as the 49ers lost 8-5.

The first few innings suggested that the second meeting between these two teams was going to be a low scoring one.

Both squads failed to put on a great display offensively in the first three innings.

The 49ers got on the board first with an RBI from Nichting. The momentum fueled behind that run sparked a tremendous inning from the 49ers.

By the end of the fourth inning, the 49ers had gained all of the momentum in the game as they scored five runs to take a

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MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

commanding 5-0 lead.

The Pirates displayed great composure as a team and their fans never counted them out of the game.

The Pirates scored five runs of their own in the fifth inning while posting six hits.

All of the momentum that the 49ers had got sucked right out of them, as they were unable to score any more runs the rest of the game.

Hibbs acknowledged that mistakes led to the offensive shakeup late in the game.

“We did some good things offensively with some good swings and good approaches. We ran the bases well and executed well but we went back out gave up five the next inning,” said Hibbs.

“We let them right back in the game and made a couple of mistakes.

I felt we regrouped after that but we have up a run and then we never really got it going offensively again.”

As the game progressed, the only cheers were coming from the Pirate fans as they scored one run in each of the last three innings to finish off the 49ers.

The 49ers committed three errors as the Pirates finished the game with zero. The 49ers would fail to score anymore after their brilliant fourth inning explosion ending the game falling 8-5.

49ers starting pitcher Ryan Butler played well in his seven-inning outing.

Butler posted an impressive 2.90 ERA despite giving up six runs.

His composure and discipline as the Pirates continued to score was a phenomenal showing of his mental toughness.

Des Roberts safely running through first base. Photo by Chris Crews

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T.J. Nichting slides into second base and is safe. Photo by Chris Crews

Game 3 In final game of the series and second in the doubleheader, the Pirates scored three runs to open up the game in the top of the first inning.

ECU went on to take a commanding 5-0 lead by the fourth inning and giving the 49ers a tough time at the diamond, as they were only able to hit the ball four times throughout the entire game.

The 49ers were unable to score until the bottom of the eighth inning.

As the game continued, the 49ers fan became frustrated and by midway through the contest, there were as many empty seats as there were fans.

Charlotte ultimately fell 5-2 in the final game of the weekend.

In a desperate weekend series for the 49ers, they were unable to snap their losing streak as it now extends to six.

Despite being unable to get it

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going from the diamond, the 49ers never gave up in this contest. They continued to fight and even though they were not able to capitalize on their efforts, they still showed an incredible amount of heart and determination.

“It’s frustrating because I see that our guys are competing. We have been competitive in just about every game that we have played this year.

The issue is that we have not been good enough on the backend of our bullpen,” said Hibbs.

“We have not been good enough with our infield defense. We have not been good enough running the bases.

It seems like it is a different thing each game.”

The 49ers will look to snap their six-game losing streak as they get set to play the Winthrop Eagles on the road on Tuesday, March 25 at 6 p.m. in the Winthrop Ballpark before returning home on Wednesday, March 26 when they host UNC Asheville also at 6 p.m.

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MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

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“We have been competitive in just about every game that we have played this year. The issue is that we have not been good enough on the backend of our bullpen.” COACH LOREN HIBBS

Photos by Chris Crews

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MARCH 25 - 31, 2014

NINERTIMES