Reflection 9

Take this First Amendment quiz. How'd you do? Any surprises?

https://www.splc.org/falawtest/

Reflection 8

In one of the presentations tonight -- on lede writing -- the presenter gave "Show Don't Tell" as one powerful tool for improving story ledes. Fine a few effective examples of that advice and post them here. Have a Happy Thanksgiving and I will see you next week.

It's Raining

Us -- at the Tampa Prep soccer match.

Reflection 7

Visit this Web site and take a look at the Code of Ethics adopted by the national Society of Professional Journalists. Thoughts?

Rocking Jail Time

Not even jail can stop Lil Wayne.  Rapper Lil Wayne who was recently convicted guilty has his new album "Rebirth" that's planned to release December 15. After his album makes is debut, the rapper will start his jail time in February for one year. The CD was originally, expected to come out earlier because of Wayne's single from January, "Prom Queen."   His rock album also will feature collaborations with Fall Out Boy, Lenny Kravitz, Travis Barker and Drake.

In July 2007, he initially pleaded innocence to possession of a .40 caliber handgun on his tour bar but he changed his mind when the court said it was be possible to check the DNA on the gun.  Last year his tour bus was searched and Rolling Stone reported that the bus stored 105 grams of marijuana, 29 grams of cocaine, 41 grams of ecstasy and a handgun.  R&B singer, Omarion is optimistic for Wayne to complete his time and he said, ""I think that it's unfortunate, but at the same time I really feel like he's not gonna miss out on anything."  If Lil Wayne goes on tour before he goes to jail, he should check what goes on his bus.  

Keep your clothes on

       The California USA group was prepared for former Miss California, Carrie Prejean to sue them.  As soon as her and her mother walked in the conference room the group showed them a home made movie of Prejean naked.  After the group showed the movie, Prejean and her mother decided to drop charges.  She wanted to sue the group for religious discrimination from dethroning her.  California's executive director, Keith Lewis said, ""This was a decision based solely on contract violations, including Ms. Prejean's unwillingness to make appearances on behalf of the Miss California USA organization."  

       Apparently the former pageant winner was by herself in the video and wanted to send it to her serious boyfriend at the time.  In an interview on Fox News , she said she takes full responsibility for her acts calling it the biggest mistake of her life. There has also been pictures of her topless that were leaked onto the internet.  Maybe the next Miss California will be more conservative. 

Party at the Teenage Choice Awards

On Monday night Miley Cyrus pranced the stage at the 2009 Teen Choice Awards in a pair of tiny, black shorts singing “Party in the USA.”  Audiences were shocked when a pole on top of an ice cream cart strolled by and Cyrus danced on it.  The young 16 year old superstar is a role model to many young girls, but is she acting her age?  Or is she growing up too fast?  

Country singer, Bill Ray Cyrus defended his daughter and said, “"I always tell her to love what you're doing and stay focused for the love of the art and not worry so much about opinion."  He is happy just as long as she is.  

On celebichy.com there was a wide range of responses from a video of her performance.  People were either very offended by it and thought she was annoying or they did not find anything wrong with it.  Audiences are waiting for what she will shock them with next.  Check out her hit song, “Party in the USA,” available for download at itunes.  

Her Silence is Finally Broken

       On Friday November 6, the R&B grammy award winner, Rihanna finally spoke up about her assault with Diane Sawyer on ABC's 20/20 .  After TMZ released a battered picture of Rihanna after a Grammy party in February, America was in awe of how the A list couple shattered. On their way back from a Grammy party, this past February, hip-Hop sensation, Chris Brown bit Rihanna and had her in a headlock making it difficult for her to breathe, police said.  

The singer said she caught him lying in a text message and she would not drop it so he reacted violently. In the interview Rihanna expressed how humiliated she was that she fell in love with a man who could do that to her.  Throughout her interview you could tell she was very ashamed;  She strongly encourages battered women to get out of their relationships while they still can.  She said,” I will say that to any young girl who is going through domestic violence, don’t react off of love.  F love.”  

On MTV's “Alexa Chung ,” Rihanna said she wanted to talk about the incident to give insight to younger girls.  In response to Rihanna’s public interview, Brown made a statement;  “While I respect Rihanna’s right to discuss the specific events of February 8, I maintain my position that all the details should remain a private matter between us.”  Hopefully, Rihanna will be able to make a difference for every battered woman.  

Michael Jackson, A Final Goodbye

According to a movie review, Michael Jackson's This Is It received an A for its “fitting” goodbye. From March through June 2009, Michael Jackson had a crew shoot his tour rehearsals for his sold out London extravaganza. Director Kenny Ortega, who also directed High School Musical, was creative enough to make this film into a movie event in only four months time.

Many grieved the loss of Michael Jackson and watched documentary after documentary airing on TV. Yet This Is It feels like the proper way to be left breathless by Jackson's unforgettable moves and incredible voice—and to finally say goodbye.

Ortega reveals all the different sides of Jackson that the public would never have seen before and if he did not die, the public would probably have not seen these funny and outrageous moments.

The movie plays many of his classic songs but the standouts are the usual: “Smooth Criminal”, “Billie Jean” and “Human Nature.” Although most of the movie is in HD, even in low-res video, you cannot take your eyes off him, a movie review said. The movie reveals old moves, and even some new dance moves created by none other than the King of Pop. All in all, this movie was a success.

Next to Holiday #5

Next to Holiday, a 5-piece Screamo outfit from Gainsville, brings a little something to the table that has been missing from the screamo scene: upbeat party lyrics followed by high-energy rocking riffs. According to singer, UT's own Jesse Dobbie, the band will be entering the Cass studio on campus next week to record a full-length acoustic album. Be on the lookout on campus, listen in on the Radio, and follow Next to Holiday on myspace.

www.myspace.com/nexttoholiday

-Hershel Fried

MMA Sports 5

The upcoming TUF finals will see only one Team Jackson fighter compete. Throughout the season, Jackson's initial boasting that his team would easily beat Evans's squad has eroded. Jackson spent most of the past episodes avoiding criticism of his coaching by claiming to be strictly a player, and not a professional coach. Evans will likely continue to display the same selfless concern for the welfare and development of his players that has marked each episode to date. Thankfully the Jones match displayed more than just the typical attrition battles that plague many amateur heavyweight bouts, as both opponents only try to punch out the other.

Safety on campus

The dean of students and the Tampa police department are in touch many times regarding campus safety. Located on the UT website is a safety alert page where police reports of students on this campus are announced. Occasionally an email is also sent out depending on the severity of the issue. This week and many past weeks have been safety alerts regarding robberies. As stated in the police report:

Two male students were the victims on an off campus armed robbery at approximately 1:30 a.m. Saturday morning by two unknown males while walking along North Boulevard on the north side of the Eugene Holtsinger (North Boulevard) bridge.  Neither student was harmed.

One female student was robbed at approximately 12:30 a.m. Sunday morning by an unknown male while walking at the intersection of North and Kennedy Boulevards.  The student sustained minor injuries.

Both these issues are in the same relative area occurring at late hours of the night. Past incidents and reports on this campus have also included a robbery resulting in a death.

These incidents can be less frequent by not walking alone at night instead taking a cab or having a friend pick you up. Also knowing what areas are known to not be safe.

Campus security office is also available at this number (813) 251-5133  to drive you from one location to another when on campus at all hours of the night.

When a victim of a crime report it right away to police to enable proper handling of the situation and to eliminate possible consecutive encounters.

Sneaky..Couple?

The New Moon saga continues as fans anticipate the premiere of this worldwide phenomenon Nov. 21. Yet, the movie is not all the fans are excited about. The public perceived Rob Pattinson and Kristen Stewart to be a couple, just like their characters Bella Swan and Edward Cullen. Although Stewart and Pattinson claimed people only saw them as a couple because of their characters, neither denied the relationship.

Stewart said, “I've just grown into not having to care so much and to not try to think that I'm going to be able to plan out the way that everyone perceives me. I’m always going to keep what's important to me in mind and I completely understand, considering that we're playing characters that are so coveted by so many people. I just sort of have to not think about it.”

Pattinson agreed saying he did not want to be any particular character in society. However, they each were vague when saying they will do as they please, not really denying anything about their relationship.

Tampa Greek Festival #4

Tampa’s Greek Festival this weekend aims to ring some old-world fun to the busy, fast-paced urban life that Tampa residents have become so accustomed to. The three-day shindig, complete with Greek food, music, dancing and other staples of the culture, is abundantly available. I actually found out about the festival last Tuesday, through my guitar instructor on campus, John Demas, who provides 3 days of music for the event every year. When he mentioned Greek food, I was there. $2 gets you in the door, while Gyros, Greek Lasagna and Baklava were just a few of the staple dishes offered by many local Greek restaurants at reasonable prices, as well as free samples spread out through the vicinity. Traditional Greek music was led by Demas on a bouzouki, a Greek guitar, and the band was accompanied by Glendi and Panigyri dancers. Packed with church-goers and hooligans such as myself and my friends,  there was a full house full of music, food, and high energy. I know I'll be going back next year.

Is it the End of Aerosmith?!

Various news sources are reporting that Steven Tyler has left Aerosmith and has given up his lead singer status in the rock n' roll band.  Joe Perry, guitarist of Aerosmith, has subtly confirmed this story with press, stating that the lead singer has "quit as far as I can tell."  He mentioned that Tyler has been avoided calls and communication with the musical group for many months now.


While all of this may be true, it is also known that Tyler has suffered various injuries as of late.  After a fall from the stage at an August performance, Tyler sustained a broken shoulder.  Since then his contact with the group seemed to dwindle, and he cancelled a few more than one performance during the past few months.  

"Frankly, the last few months I've been wanting not to rock the boat," said Perry.  Perry added that himself and the other band members have been trying to avoid the canceling of any further gigs or performances that they were scheduled for in the future. 


Perry says that he knows as little about the situation as the press currently does, and that the band is simply trying to remain peaceful.  "We just kind of didn't want to call him out or anything and get him anymore pissed off, for whatever reason. So we just let things lie."


In the next few months we will have to stay tuned to find out whether or not Aerosmith will be continuing as a band, and if so, whether or not Aerosmith can go on without its main man...

MMA Sports 4

Saturday, 7 November, CBS broadcast their sponsored MMA organization, Strikeforce, a competitor to the UFC. The fight card consisted of two famous competitors in separate fights, Fedor Emelianenko and Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou. Widely considered the best in his sport, Fedor did not disappoint with a spectacular knockout finish to win his match and wrap up the event. Sokoudjou, on the other hand,  lost his earlier bout because he could not solely rely on his boxing, a fact that has dogged his recent fights.

MMA Sports 3

Facing the grim prospect of a winless season for his team, coach Jackson rests all his hopes on the former Tampa Bay Buccaneer, Marcus Jones. A giant, even among Heavyweights, Jones has displayed a surprisingly gentle demeanor throughout the season; some other fighters have given him the nickname “Big Baby,” which Jones accepts in good nature.

The usual build-up before the fight, where fighters are shown training and discussing their upcoming match, was typically dramatic. Like many inexperienced TUF contestants before him, Jones stated his confidence in his abilities to succeed in the ring. Unlike every other prior fight this season, Jones actually backs up his words by rapidly besting his opponent with the first display of technical ability seen this season. The first and only Jackson team member will fight along with 7 others in the upcoming finals.

MMA Sports 2

The two competing teams of TUF are coached this season by Quinton “Rampage” Jackson and Rashad Evans, both former UFC Light Heavyweight Champions. After leaving the defunct Pride Fighting organization, Jackson and his famous temper have been on display in UFC bouts. Evans, a season 2 contestant and winner of TUF, comes to this program, as a coach, after recently losing his UFC title.

With the preliminary fights almost complete, Jackson's team has not won a fight in 6 matches. The seventh was the closest bout, which resulted in a loss by judges' decision. Jackson's temper finally got the better of him at the end of the program. His frustration at the judges' scoring led him to literally tear apart an interior, hollow-core door in the UFC training facility.

MMA Sports 1

The Ultimate Fighter program on the cable television channel, Spike, brings several amateur and semiprofessional Mixed Martial Arts fighters together in a reality show based competition for a contract with the Ultimate Fighting Championship organization. The first season debuted in 2005, in the middle of the reality show fad on television, and has continually evolved from its beginnings. Gone are the reality-show devised team challenges, which only risked needless injury before matches. Each season sees a different weight class of fighter, sometimes with two individual classes competing simultaneously.

Heavyweights make up this season roster, with several former NFL players attempting the transition. Yet they are overshadowed with the arrival of Kimbo Slice, a YouTube sensation on the internet for his unsanctioned street fights. Currently in teams of 8, 16 fighters vie for the goal of becoming the Ultimate Fighter. In a previous match, the popular Slice was eliminated from the finals in a loss against a more experienced opponent, Roy “Big Country” Nelson.

UT "going green" with a sustainable campus

The University of Tampa has in many ways over the past years found ways to uphold a sustainable campus. Going “green” is a new trend and a positive one at that, many campuses cities and household have been finding ways to keep our natural resources and environment from being overused or damaged.

UT is a founding member and sustaining partner member of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Gulf Coast Chapter.

The ways in which this campus has been upholding its sustainability agreement is by using environmentally safe products replacing lighting fixtures and utilizing electricity and energy use in all classrooms.

Specifically, cleaning products, disinfectants, floor waxes etc. are all now replaced with environmentally safe products. Also the university has analyzed ways to save energy using energy efficient lighting, also incorporating sensors to turn off unused lights, and computer monitors. The lighting fixtures in Martinez and Cass gym were completely reinstalled using better efficiency lights.

Also installing occupancy-based thermostats that regulate temperature of air units depending on if the area/ classroom is occupied or not. High efficiency water heaters have replaced many of the older models as well.

Recycling has also been encouraged around campus with the placement of many dumpsters and trash cans provided for recycling only. There are two single stream recycling bins on campus, one located between ResCom and the Thomas Parking Garage and the other located by the left field corner of the baseball field.

The paper used in copier machines is part-recycled paper and much other paper used around campus as well. There are 30 locations around campus that have printer paper recycling bins, many located in computer labs to eliminate the millions of sheets of paper that used to get thrown into trash cans.

Even more ways UT has gone green is by implementing duplex printing in computer labs (printing on both sides of the paper), also by installing low flow toilets, showerheads and faucets.

There are countless other ways UT has “gone green” sustaining the earth and using the most environmentally safe options.

Circus Tour Unsuccessful

Britney Spears’ comeback is not going as planned. Although the star has put on many concerts in the past year, the audience claims she’s “boring.”


At one point, her fans complained Spears lip-synched and ridiculed her performance in Australia, according to the Australian media. Even John Mayer joined in on the complaints. Mayer said on twitter, “If you're shocked that Britney was lip-synching at her concert and want your money back, life may continue to be hard for you.”

According to the promoter of this tour, Spears is aware of these complaints and is upset about the negative feedback, but who would not be? The Daily Telegraph reported a woman saying it was a waste of $200 and she would rather have bought two pairs of shoes.

However, Spears’ manager defended her saying the lip-synch scandal was made up by one Australian journalist and that the show was a huge success. The concert was held at Burswood Entertainment Complex in Perth, Australia and its reps agreed with the manager’s opinion.

John Travolta Breaks His Silence on Son's Death

John Travolta has decided to finally speak to the press about the death of his son, Jett.  Since the death of their 16 year old son, the Travolta's have remained quiet, but they spoke with USA Today about how they have been dealing and coping with this tragedy.  Travolta says that the family has turned to their religion in order to get through the struggle, and have looked to their family for support.  The Travolta's have also been seeking intensive therapy to deal with the grief they are feeling since Jett's death.


"We've been working very hard every day as a family to heal" says Travolta.  The 16 year old son of Hollywood parents John Travolta and Kelly Preston suffered from autism, and faced an untimely and unexpected death on February 2 of last year, due to a seizure while vacationing at the family's home in Grand Bahama Island.  

The Travoltas have also been extremely thankful for the support provided by fans and friends.  "The outpouring of love from, really, worldwide has been extraordinary. It's been our friends, our family, our church. We partake in spiritual counseling pretty much daily," says Preston.  


The family has also decided to break their silence in support of the film that will soon be premiering that features both parents and their 9 year old daughter Ella in her first film role.  The film, a comedy entitled Old Dogs, will be hitting theaters on November 25.    The family has put some of their focus into their work to help deal with the grief and strong emotions that they have been feeling since the death of their beloved Jett.  


On top of this tragedy, they are also facing a court case surrounding the death of Jett, but have yet to comment on this situation.  The case was ruled as a mistrial and is set for a retrial in the future.  Meanwhile, the family hopes to promote the future of their daughter Ella, and be allowed privacy and time to grieve as a family.  

Something To Think About: New College Health Law

With all the discussion lately on a new healthcare plan, there has been one improvement that has directly affected college students. It is called Michelle’s Law and it went into effect as a federal law on Oct. 9, 2009.

Michelle’s Law allows full-time college students to take up to 12 months medical leave while still being covered under their parent’s health insurance.

This need for this law became clear when the story of a young woman named Michelle Morse, who was diagnosed with colon cancer while attending New Hampshire’s Plymouth State University, was presented to Congressman Paul Hodes.

The doctors had told Michelle to stay home and rest; however, her parent’s health insurance forced Michelle to go to school. The insurance company requires a person to maintain a schedule as a full-time student in order to remain on their parent’s plan, so Michelle took a full class load all while undergoing chemotherapy and treatments. Six months after Michelle graduated she lost her battle with cancer but her mother knew it was time for a change and that the healthcare system would be the start.

This is when the fight for a new law began in 2004 and is now in effect presently.  

Healthier Thanksgiving Choices

Thanksgiving dinner doesn't have to be a complete diet breaker. There are ways around the saturated fat and empty calories that will be placed on the table before you. Below is a video from Fox News in Boston with some tips.
1. Limit your turkey intake to skinless white meat. Try to avoid the dark meat.
2. Even though dried and fresh cranberries are actually good for you, the canned cranberry sauce packs in a lot more unnecessary sugars, so steer clear of that.
3. Common sense would say that you should pack your plate full of vegetables. But for healthy alternatives to the fried onions on top of your casseroles, try using slivered almonds instead.

Make sure you check out the video for good news about dessert. You should stay away from the pie, but there are other delicious treats you can enjoy!!

Healthier Thanksgiving Choices!

JoBros Back Again

As if the Jonas Brothers dont get enough publicity, they will be signing on to do another season of their show, Jonas, which airs on the Disney Channel.  Disney Channel has decided to keep the show around for another season due to its current success with tween population across the globe.

The second season of Jonas will begin taping in February 2010, and is said to be airing sometime around the middle of next year.  On top of the airing of a second season of Jonas, the brothers Jonas have also been picked up by Disney Channel to do another season of their mini-reality series, Jonas Brothers: Living the Dream, which will also air sometime next year.

Best Burger on a Budget

A hand packed patty, fresh cut lettuce, cheddar cheese, tomato and onion atop a sesame seed bun and accompanied by a heaping side of fries is a staple in American cuisine and culture.  Each year Americans consume 14 billion burgers with the average person eating three a week!  Our obsession with burgers is fulfilled by countless fast food chains all claiming to have perfected this American classic.  But who can really claim the best burger around for those on a budget.

It may not be the most glamorous burger but it sure is convenient.  Open 24/7 Steak-N-Shake boasts hand pressed patties at a price you can't beat.  With four meals under four bucks Steak-N-Shake is a hot spot late night for broke college kids.  

Square1Burger is a recent addition to the Tampa Bay burger scene. Located on Henderson across from the Fresh Market, Square1 was named 'best burger in Tampa Bay' by St. Petersburg Times food critic Laura Reiley.  Their extensive selection of patties allows burger enthusiasts to build their own masterpiece making it as simple or saucy as you desire.  Beyond burgers Square1 offers unique appetizers and sides along with a full bar.  The friendly staff and swanky environment are just perks to their juicy burgers.

In the past three years Five Guys has opened nine stores in the Tampa Bay area.  Considering most restaurants are barely scraping or forced to close their doors proves that their doing something right.  Zagat rated for eight consecutive years Five Guys uses only fresh ground beef thats never frozen and potatoes that are shipped in daily.  Their trans-fat free menu is small but portions are huge and all under seven dollars.  

Wether your crunched for time, on a budget or just craving a burger re-think the golden arches.  Not all burgers are created equal so stop settling. 

Love For The Ladies

 

FREE bowling, shoes and champaign what more could a girl want? Ladies look no further, Splitsville in Channelside introduces Ladies Night every Tuesday starting at 8 p.m. featuring half price sushi and appetizers, drink specials and free bowling, shoes and champaign.

Unlike your typical bowling alley that reeks of cigarettes and stale nachos Splitsville luxury lanes and dinner lounge has transformed bowling into an experience.  With a full-scale menu and bar, billiards, dancing and of course bowling there is fun for all.  

So gather up some gals and take advantage of everything Splitsville has to offer.  Dine, dance, drink and bowl for next to nothing every Tuesday. 

Phillies RBI League Helps Inner City Kids

The Phillies RBI baseball league created by the MLB in 1993 is an international campaign that was created to give less fortunate inner city kids a chance to play organized baseball. Since the league began, the program has had over 200 cities participate and has had as many as 120, 000 players both female and male tryout.

The RBI league is designed to give kids a chance to play competitive ball while receiving instruction as well as a better knowledge of the game.  The goal is to have boys and girls work on basic mechanics and improve on them during real game situations.

Since the softball program was established in 1995, the league has seen a drastic increase of the amount of girls who have tried out over the years. As a result of this increase, the number of participants today consist of 2,000 teenagers who play in 20 different locations all a crossed the Tri-State area.

In addition to the MLB sponsoring the RBI Leagues, the league also sponsors three All-star teams. The teams consist of a junior (13-15 years) and senior (16-18 years) boys baseball team as well as a girls softball team (15-18 years). These teams travel all over competing in MLB sponsored competitions as well as regional RBI competitions at a chance to play in the RBI World Series held every August.

To learn more information about the Phillies RBI League email fandev@phillies.com or call 215.463.1000.

Something To Think About: Chiropractors are Better than Medical Doctors

Many times when a person is sick they seek a pharmacy, physician, or even a hospital in search of a cure, a cure filled with chemicals galore. However, what people should be in search for if they want a lasting cure is a chiropractor.

Chiropractors don’t find answers to health problems by signing a little slip that goes to the pharmacy; they find answers by researching your lifestyle and finding the underlying issue.

New York Chiropractor Dr. Douglas Willen put it best on how his treatments differ from a medical doctor. He explained that if you have a pet dog and the dog starts crying and becoming lethargic and then perhaps throws up, what the first thought that comes to a person’s mind.. “What did the dog eat,” however, why don’t we treat people the same way? He then explained to me that a young girl had come to him with pains in her stomach for about 3 months, and the medical doctor decided it would be best for them to operate, but when she went to Dr. Willen, his first question was what have you been eating? Long story short, the cause of her pains was due to her poor diet and there was no need to operate.

Many times there are unnecessary surgery procedures done and an unlimited amount of money spent on paramedical drugs, which is a shame when the cure may just need to be a lifestyle change or quick spinal adjustment.

Reasons People Consult Chiropractors

1.         Obvious Spinal Problem  - Many times people associate chiropractic care with headaches, neck and back problems and chiropractors take interest in the spine because it is the home for the nervous system

2.         Visceral or Organic Complaints – Many times persons consult chiropractors for non-back related health problems, and chiropractors have helped everything from bedwetting to colic and stomach problems to asthma.

3.         Natural Drug Free Health Care – Many time people want to avoid the use of risky drugs and irreversible surgery and chiropractors offer a safer, natural approach to curing health problems.

For more information on learning about chiropractors approach, better know as Holistic healing, take a look at this great video!

Campus Life Blog#5- Over The Weekend

Since UT is an urban campus, there are a lot of activities easily accessible to students over the weekend. A majority of students love to go to parties & bars over the weekend to relax and have a good time. Generally they start their partying on Thursdays as most clubs host 'College Night' and most of the time it is free for ladies to get in till a certain time. The Kennedy [Located on Kennedy] and Mangroves [Located on Howard] are the major clubs that host 'College Night' on Thursdays. There are some students who are not into the whole partying scene and therefore they spend most of their time attending events on campus. Team CHAOS & Residence Life host TNT 'Thursday Night Treats' for students who are not interested in partying. For the 21 and over crowd Friday is the best day of the week as a lot of the local bars host 'Happy Hour' with special prices for UT students. A very famous bar that a majority of the student population goes to for 'Happy Hour' is McDittons [Located on S.Howard] for those who are not 21, Ybor is the place to be on Fridays. Most carribean students go to Prana [located in Ybor] because Friday night is reggae and carribean night. However, some students are no into that kind of music so they choose to go to Gbar, Castle, The Honeypot or Boss Hogs.

Saturdays and Sundays are generally not that exciting, however many at times there is some house party going on and lot of UT students attend those. House parties are very common as most students just want to have a low key night out but sometimes these parties get busted really easily specially if there is underage drinking going on. Other than partying and going out, there is a lot more that students do over the weekend. Some students choose to go bowling, laser-tagging or even just go to the movies & dinner with friends. Since we live in Florida, many students enjoy their Sundays at the beach just relaxing before starting the week yet again. Road trips to cities such as Miami & Orlando are fairly common amongst students too. Since UT is so close to the mall and other entertainment related places it is very easy for students to choose what they want to do over the weekend.

Phillies See An Increase In Ballgirl Applicants

Every year the Philadelphia Phillies host tryouts for Phillies Ballgirls, and this year nineteen women were picked for the 2009 season. The group of women consisted of a mixture of athletes, coaches, teachers, college students, project analysts, and design engineers.

This year the number of applicants who applied totaled to 1,600+, which almost tripled last year’s amount. Event Coordinator Michele DeVicaris said, “There we’re so many athletic, intelligent, talented women from which to choose, and we believe we selected the very best to represent the Phillies both on and off the field.” She explained that since the Phillies won the World Series in 2008 the number of applicants has drastically increased over the past year.

Although many believe the job entails just working the foul lines at home games. The Phillies Ballgirls also are involved in arranging many different charitable events as well as softball games over the course of the season.

For more information about becoming a Phillies Ballgirl or scheduling an appearance, please contact Michele DeVicaris at mdevicaris@phillies.com

Has Seth McFarlane lost his touch? Or was he just picked on too much in High School? #3

If anyone turns on the FOX network, chances are you will see an advertisement for one of Seth Mcfarlane’s outrageous cartoons, his abysmal live variety show, or a HULU.com commercial where he shamelessly promotes his telivision shows in the same vocal fashion which made his shows famous.

We get it Seth: You hate Republicans and anything relating to pop-culture from the 1980’s-on, you think people from the South are all inbred hillbillies, and Jews, Black People and Gays, as well as any other minority all make for great comedy fodder. Lest we forget the several minute cut-scenes that are in no way related to the show’s plot. Don’t get me wrong, Peter’s never-ending battles with a giant Chicken are hilarious (albeit a little tired, seeing as the show is now syndicated to every basic cable station known to man,) but FUCK Conway Twitty. Its not humorous, and no one enjoys listening to him sing, even those who like his music. I used to be an avid family guy fan, but over the last couple seasons I have found myself really disappointed in the quality of Mr. McFarlane’s writing… or lack thereof.

            Lets take a look at his new show: The Cleveland show. This show is a joke. The characters are all retarded and totally uninteresting Once again, Seth; WE GET IT!!! Red states suck, Wiggers are douche-bags, Black people are funny, and after last night’s purity episode, you definitely know how to milk a gay joke for all its worth… then kick the dead horse it rode in on, for another 15 minutes. Are you getting lazy, or just running out of good ideas, Seth?

            Lastly I want to spend a minute bashing his reality show, so cleverly entitled: “Family Guy Presents: Seth and Alex’s Almost Live Comedy Show”.  Maybe the producers (being Mr. McFarlane himself, seeing as he runs Fox now) found some sort of funny irony in the title, or maybe they were shooting for a certain demographic of stupidity. I’ll leave that up for the rating to decide. I can’t really judge this show seeing as I was disgiusted and found myself changing the channel after about 8 minutes, but from what I saw, Seth McFarlane and Alex Borstein should stick to their day jobs, making sub-par cartoons that attract every degenerate in the country. I really had no idea why this show was even on the air… it had no redeeming value whatsoever, and I couldn’t even figure out what Seth and Alex were aiming for in the show… perhaps they are just as clueless as myself. The real deal breaker for me was when Seth began to sing “The Sound of Music’s” “Edelweiss”. Apparently the joke was that Alex Borstein, who happens to be Jewish, is supposed to be offended by this because it has a Nazi reference, I suppose. All I know is, I found it shallow, and somewhat tacky and basically I hated the show. I’m not one to advocate political correctness on any level, but it gets to a point where you stop making comedy and are just offending anyone and everyone. This is what Seth McFarlane has reduced himself to. He should rethink his game plan, and stick to what made him famous in the first place: Writing funny Family Guy and American Dad episodes, and stop trying to write absolute shit, sticktly for shock value. The above picture that I found online describes exactly what has become of Family Guy over the last ten years. Do us all a favor, Seth: Battle your personal demons and insecurities on your own time, stop wasting ours.

Something To Think About: Is Marijuana Healthy?

It’s highly addictive and puts you at high risk for lung cancer. Cigarettes. It impairs your judgment and is the main cause of highway accidents. Alcohol. It can be used as a medicine to help stimulate appetite and nausea in cancer and AIDS patients. Marijuana. The ironic fact about these three substances is that alcohol and cigarettes have no useful attribute and are legal but marijuana is the most beneficial and is illegal. It would seem logical to say that the beneficial substance, marijuana, should be legalized.

435,000 is the number of people in the United States that die every year due to cigarettes. They are also the number one cause of death in the US, killing more people than HIV, AIDS, alcohol use, suicides, car accidents, and murders combined. 85,000 is the number of people in the United States that die every year due to alcohol. Zero is the number of people in the United Sates that die every year due to the use of marijuana.

Marijuana causes none of the effects that cigarettes and alcohol do. There is no proven fact that it is harmful to a person’s health and the statement “marijuana kills brain cells” is in fact a myth. According to Biological Psychiatry, in a recent study researcher’s found no evidence of brain abnormality in monkeys that were forced to inhale the equivalent of four to five marijuana cigarettes everyday for a year. According to the United States Department of Health and Services in 2002, they stated, Marijuana does not cause physical dependence and according to the American Thoracic Society in 2006, even heavy users who smoke marijuana were not found to have any increased risk of lung cancer.

Pharmaceutical drugs that are chemically made to help people with either pain or anxiety such as; Vicodin, Xanex, and Tylenol are legal and helpful if taken correctly, yet are still highly addictive and many times results in death, hence the warning labels. For example: if a doctor prescribes a pain reliever such as a Vicodin, twice a day, everyday, for a month, it has been proved that the body will then become dependent of the it causing an addiction leading to death. So are they really that good for people?

However, no pain reliever or anti-anxiety medication can relieve the pain and side effects of cancer and AIDS patients. But there is an herb that can, marijuana, it’s natural and it comes from the ground. It is not man-made or chemically formed, which is what makes it healthy. Marijuana causes no physical dependence on the body, does not increase risk for lung cancer, it does not cause memory loss, liver damager, or brain damage, it does not impair your judgment, and its use does not result in death. It simply helps those in need in a natural way.

We can either live in a society where we legalize harmful substances or we can create a society where we legalize substances that can help others. For more information and a professional opinion on the legalization of marijuana check out this great video!

Undeclared... a Diamond in the Rough #2

This weekend, deciding to forego the typical college weekend and rot my liver, I opted to borrow the entire series of Undeclared on DVD from a friend of mine. It was an awesome idea. For those who haven’t seen or even heard of Undeclared, it is defiantly a hidden gem among the Television world. After Judd Apatow’s short-lived high school dramedy, Freaks and Geeks, he moved on to parody and examine the trials, tribulations and shenanigans that happen in the first year of college, taking place in the early 2000’s. While I found Freaks and Geeks hilarious and loved the soundtrack (it takes place in the 80’s so The Who, and Led Zeppelin were two musical staples thought the series) I couldn’t find myself connecting with the characters as much as I did when I watched Undeclared. Just like the characters, Apatow’s story and dialogue writing begins to mature and become more real. From the first episode, I could identify with so many of the character’s problems and trails as they began their first semester at college. Meting the roommates, one-night stands, first loves, living on your own, drinking copious amounts of alcohol out of random apparati found around a dorm room, and feeling totally lost were all touched on in just the first episode alone. The show is also carried by much of its cast: Jay Baruchel, who plays the main character: Shy, soft-spoken Eric, is a relative unknown, having only a small memorable note in Apatow’s blockbuster hit, Knocked Up,  and some other small movie/television parts. Stoner Superstar Seth Rogan once again reprises his roll of the simple yet loveable slacker, Ron, and Jason Segal guest starts in the series as the obsessive back-home boyfriend, Eric. The office’s Jenna Fischer even makes an appearnce in a later episode as one of Steve’s roommates one-night stands. Any fan of Apatow’s movies, and his crew of loveable stoners will appreciate this short-lived masterpiece about moving on top the next chapter in life, that is college.
-Hershel Fried

Blog Post #5 - Iverson Struggles in Memphis

10 times all-star Allen Iverson made his debut this year on the Memphis Grizzlies and has caused a lot of controversy in the short amount of time the season has been going. Iverson is doing something he’s never had to do his career which has ruined his attitude and put him in a constant state of frustration which is coming off the bench. Iverson who’s known for being an all-star guard and “carrying” a team is not starting for the first time in his career.


In numerous interviews Iverson has complained about the fact that he’s not starting and wants things to change, assuming he’s better than the coach see’s him as. Iverson who wasn’t aware this year’s Grizzly season would be considered a “rebuilding season” was upset when he found this out and insists nobody told him this, assuming he would be starting this year.

 Iverson and the Grizzlies coach Lionel Hollins haven’t discussed Iverson’s frustration even though it’s been a hot topic for the media. As Iverson struggles in Memphis, it brings up the question, “Maybe it’s time for Iverson to retire?” He struggles to be the player he used to be on his new team. Most recently Iverson came off the bench against the Los Angeles Lakers, scoring eight points in 22 minutes played, while Kobe Bryant just passed Iverson on the list of all time NBA scorers.

Memphis is not sure yet how Iverson will cope with his playing time or how long he’ll stay on the team.

Rihanna Tells All on 20/20

This past Friday, Rihanna appeared on 20/20 to take part in a tell-all interview with ABC's Diane Sawyer.  Rihanna finally broke her silence in regards to the situation that occurred with former boyfriend Chris Brown,  back in February 2009, when Brown brutally attacked and beat the female singer in his car on the way home from a pre-grammy party.  The incident was highly publicized and pictures of the starlet were leaked immediately after the situation happened showing a bruised and bloody Rihanna.

VIDEO OF RIHANNA INTERVIEW

In the interview with Diane Sawyer, Rihanna recounted the incident that occurred that night, explaining how it all began when she had found an upsetting text message on Brown's phone.  Upon confronting Brown about the text, the conversation turned into a heated argument, and soon Brown became extremely angry and hostile and was screaming and physically attacking the young female singer.  

"I caught him in a lie and he wouldn't tell the truth," said 21 year old Rihanna. "I wouldn't drop it. I couldn't take that he kept lying to me and he couldn't take that I wouldn't drop it, because obviously his back was up against the wall. The truth is right here in the text message. So it escalated into him being violent towards me and it was ugly."

Rihanna got back together with Brown soon after the incident, but shortly thereafter ended her relationship with him.  She could not bare to look at Brown any longer, and felt that she could not continue the relationship.  Rihanna recounted strong feelings of anger and resentment toward Brown.  Finally admitting that she did hate Brown at the time, Rihanna broke off the relationship and ended things with Brown for good.


About an apology issued by Brown on YouTube, Rihanna says that it seemed as though he was reading it off of a teleprompter, and that she questioned whether or not he understood the extent of his actions.  As to what she hopes for Brown now, she says that she still loves him and wishes him the best in his life and his career.  "What I want, is for him to accept this as a man would and accept the responsibility, and not find a way to feel sorry for himself."
  

Swine flu affecting campus life

Like many of the college and school campuses around the nation the H1N1 virus is taking its toll on many students at the University of Tampa. The flu is categorized a respiratory disease caused by Type A influenza viruses. It is a contagious virus that is spread by people who are infected with the virus or by contaminated surfaces, not by pork and pork products.”

Not even in the peaks of the flu season typically in late January, the “swine” flu has affected hundreds of student’s health leaving them behind in academics as well. The contagiousness of the flu is a large dilemma at places such as UT, where students are living in tight quarters in residence halls and cooped together in classrooms as well.


The health center has been extremely busy with flu patients and also providing students and faculty with the H1N1 vaccine. UT has recently received more of the vaccine therefore able to provide it to more people. The days and times for receiving the vaccine are: Tuesday to Friday from 8 to 11 a.m.

What to do in these situations remains to the campus administration, however for now the best thing being provided is health center care and flu shots. New sanitizing dispensers have been places around campus as well this year in hopes of keeping sanitization to a maximum. More information on prevention is given on the UT website linked here

Greek Variety Show '09

This years Greek Variety Show formerly known as greek sing, was held on Thursday November 5 in Martinez gym. The stands were filled with approximately 500 University of Tampa students and greeks; it is one of campuses most popular events. This year however brought some changes to the event as a whole.

This year unlike the past years, all Greek councils and even campus advisors participated in the beginning portion featuring stroll dances choreographed by the NPHC chapters. This incorporated much greek unity that is highly emphasized throughout the night.


Also a change from last year was pairing up each sorority with a fraternity to compete together instead of every chapter on their own.

Each chapter was introduced afterwards to perform a ten minute or less performance. Performances included themes, dances to hit song mixes, entertaining stunts and many UT greek chapters represented.

Concluding the night the panel of judges announced this years winners include:



1st place - Sigma Alpha Iota, Alpha Psi Omega & Phi Mu Alpha

2nd place - Delta Zeta & Theta Chi

3rd place - Alpha Chi Omega & Delta Tau Delta

Best Sorority: Delta Gamma

Best Fraternity: Theta Chi

Best individual performance: Sydney Weymouth

Usher Finally Done Signing Papers

The papers to finalize the divorce of Usher Raymond and former stylist Tameka Foster have finally been signed.  The 31 year old singer filed for divorce from Foster back in June, citing the reasoning of the separation as "irreconcilable differences."  The two had been married for about 2 years and share 2 children together, Usher Raymond V, 22 months old, and Naviyd Ely Raymond, 9 months.  Usher also added that the two had been living apart for almost a year and carrying on with separate lives.  

This occurrence was not a shock for most fans and critics, as the marriage had been deemed by many "doomed" from the start.  At the time they first began dating, Foster was still married to another man.  She also had 3 children before meeting Usher.  It was also publicized that Usher's mother, Jonnetta Patton, did not approve of the marriage, and that there had been trouble between the singer and his former manager-mother due to his marriage to Foster.  

Usher will once again be single and on the scene, now that his divorce from Foster has been finalized.  The custody of their 2 children is still to be determined.

Flat Abs Made Easy

When you are working out to get those washboard abs that you've always dreamed of, what you eat is just as important as the exercises you do. Foods that are rich in fiber and high in protein help to make your crunches more effective so that you can finally see the results you want. Some of the best foods for flatter abs are:
1. Almonds- aside from being high in protein and fiber, almonds contain magnesium which is important in building lean muscle tissue and regulating your blood sugar while working out.
2. Eggs- it was already mentioned before that eggs were actually good for you because of they are high in protein and amino acids. Try to keep it to about one egg a day so you aren't packing on cholesterol as well. Also, try Egg Beaters for a lower cholesterol choice that still packs the same protein and delicious taste.
3. Soy- soy beans and soy milk are becoming more and more popular. They have a tremendous amout of protein and fiber. Try snacking on edamame which are soy beans or switch out your regular milk and try putting soy milk in your morning coffee!
4. Apples- everyone knows that an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but it can also help flatten your stomach. Apples are rich in fiber and make for a great snack anytime. For a sweet treat, try sprinkling cinnamon on sliced apples for apple pie bites on the go!

There are many more foods to help flatten your stomach quicker, just keep in mind you are looking for foods that are high in FIBER, PROTEIN, and ANTIOXIDANTS.

We all see the flat stomachs of celebrities flashed in front of our faces on a daily basis. Here is a link to some training techniques that stars use to get their flat abs. They show you exercises besides boring crunches and sit ups that many would never think target your abs, but you will be surprised.

WUTT: Video Hasn't Killed the Radio Star Yet... Just Put Him In A Coma #1

In a time where satellite radio, Youtube, and Pandora raign supreme in the media, many Americans have forgotten about the original media giant of old: The radio. On the UT campus, a brave few are trying to bring back what is now a lost art. Senior Barry Rosenblum, a DJ for WUTT and a buddy of mine, has his own show on Wednesdays from 12-2 pm called the Happy Hour: “It’s a mix of ska, reggae, rock, and whatever else I think sounds good that day,” says Rosenblum. Interactivity is another plus with his show. As with anyof the other radio shows, you can call in, shmooze with the DJ or request to hear a song, a request that should be easily granted, with the studio’s computer-generated DJ system, Irrackis, or the DJ’s own Itunes collection.

            A new part of the show includes live music being bradcast from inside the studiop. Yours truly, as well as other student musicians come in and play a set of acoustic tunes right in the studio. “We’re trying to get a larger fanbase, and possibly go FM in the near future, since that would bring in a larger listener base. At the very least, it gives some up and coming musicians a chance to get their names out there to our current listeners.” says Rosenblum. As someone who has played on the radio before, I can attest to how much fun it is. Hopefully ,others will start to tune and give Barry's show a shot.