Spinnaker Archives | Page 22 of 23

Student investment group avoids financial downfall

Spinnaker | Oct 29, 2008

Osprey Financial Group, a student-run investment entity, has avoided the catastrophic losses that have plagued Wall Street and other less-intuitive financial investors, according to a preliminary fall financial report.

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Halloween night life

Spinnaker | Oct 29, 2008

The Ocean Club Where: 401 N. First St., Jacksonville Beach. What: The club will be decorated for the festivities, and there will be $1,000 worth of prizes for the best costumes. Specials: Drink specials all night including $3 Smirnoff malted beverage drinks and $2 Miller Lite Drafts. Entertainment: N/A.

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"Top Five" Halloween songs

Spinnaker | Oct 29, 2008

There are literally scads of spooky, blood-curdling, humorous and in general, appropriately themed songs for Halloween. There are many more than five great Halloween songs, but classics like “Monster Mash,” “Ghostbusters,” and “Purple People Eater” get old after the one-millionth spin. Here are five songs sure to get you in the mood for Halloween and in a few cases, provide you with a good starting point for a soundtrack to your Halloween party.

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Final words debated before the elections

Spinnaker | Oct 29, 2008

Several hundred students watched two local attorneys Oct. 27 represent presidential candidates Sen. John McCain and Sen. Barack Obama in a debate moderated by UNF President John Delaney, just eight days before Election Day.

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Hallo-theme costumes

Spinnaker | Oct 29, 2008

Sometimes, it’s not enough to just go to a Halloween party; sometimes you want to make an entrance. And sometimes your really crazy costume is so unique that nobody will get it unless your entire group of friends is in costume by your side to complete the picture. Want to make a great entrance at the party and have an awesome time with your friends creating the outfits and playing dress up? Here are a few ideas for some great (and cheap) group costumes.

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Youtube clip of the week

Spinnaker | Oct 29, 2008

EVEN Ghosts are clumsy The only thing funnier than horrible amateur videos are horrible amateur videos that feature the actors getting hurt. Here’s a nice Halloween edition of such footage. Search: Horrifying...

Delaney assumes duties of Florida chancellor

Spinnaker | Oct 29, 2008

UNF President John Delaney announced Oct. 28 he will serve as president in residence, a role designed to help out the Florida Board of Governors until a new chancellor is selected.

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Oddball Antics

Spinnaker | Oct 29, 2008

YOU SEE, WE REALLY LOVE EACH OTHER A woman called police after a violent argument with her husband at their Crestview, Fla., home in which he threw a oil lamp at her and poured Gatorade over her head. When the cops grabbed him later, he told them they had “worked things out.” SAY, WE’VE BEEN LOOKING FOR THIS MONEY Thieves stole $8,000 in dollar bills patrons had hung on the walls of a restaurant in Inyokern, Calif. People there traditionally wrote messages on the bills before hanging them up. A few days later, one of the thieves used some of the very distinctive bills to pay a court fine. Arrests resulted.

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Political gameplan

Spinnaker | Oct 29, 2008

Throughout U.S. history, sports have provided a way for politicians to connect with people. During his presidency, George W. Bush has attended important sporting events the nation watched. This summer Bush made sure the U.S. presence was felt at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. After the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, Bush threw out the first pitch during the World Series, saying America must continue to do the things that make us American.

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Inside the Huddle

Spinnaker | Oct 29, 2008

Patty McJazzfingers Ribbon Dancer Extraordinare	Jacques Strappe Baguette Fencing Aficionado	Pigskin Potanken Extreme Jaguar Fan	Herbert Oldie, but Goodie
Question 1: What is the scariest sports moment you have ever seen?
Watching Chad Johnson make a disgrace of the only real sport – professional dancing – everytime he scores.	Did you see the old uniforms French track and field athletes wore in the 19th century? Frightening.	Any year the Jaguars don’t make the playoffs is my worst nightmare.	A good MLB field fight tops my list. I’d bet money pitting Nolan Ryan with anybody in the league today. Have you seen his headlock? Vicious.
Question 2: From Demon Deacons to Horned Frogs, professional and collegiate sports are home to a variety of wacky mascots with even wackier costumes. Who do you think has the most unique mascot costume?

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SG tailgate fails to spur win

Spinnaker | Oct 29, 2008

The UNF men’s soccer team was defeated 1-0 in its search for its second consecutive SunTrust River City Rumble victory against Jacksonville University Oct. 26. JU’s lone goal came in the 44th minute when JU midfielder Ramak Niakan Safi headed in a cross from defender Phillip Meyner.

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Hamilton: Lippit kept us in match

Spinnaker | Oct 29, 2008

The UNF women’s soccer team played its second scoreless game of the season Oct. 26, tying Lipscomb University 0-0 in double overtime. After getting off eight shots in the first half of the game, the Ospreys attempted 15 shots in the second half. UNF led Lipscomb in shots on goal 29-11 during the match. UNF fired a total of six shots in the two overtime periods, but four saves by Lipscomb goalkeeper Katie Shelton, a shot that went wide right and a shot that sailed high kept the Ospreys from scoring the winning goal.

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Ospreys fall short to Lipscomb in second-set rally

Spinnaker | Oct 29, 2008

The UNF women’s volleyball team lost to Lipscomb University 3-0 (16-25, 25-27, 17-25) Oct. 25 after failing to force a tie in the second set. Although UNF went down in three sets, the second set featured 10 ties and three lead changes. “The second set was really good,” UNF head coach Kevin Campbell said. “Marshay [Greenlee] stepped up in the set – not only with her hitting, but also with the energy she brought. Kaley [Read] had a very solid match. Our struggle right now is being able to close out the crucial point after being on the cusp of a win.”

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Photo Gallery: NAS Jax 2008 airshow

Spinnaker | Oct 28, 2008

NAS Jax 2008 Air show was held October 25-26. During the show there were multiple performers, from the 82d airborne dividion to the P-51 Mustang, ending with the Blue Angels.

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Random acts of kindness should become the norm

Spinnaker | Oct 28, 2008

According to an article on CNN's website, a stranger bought a woman's foreclosed home and gave it back to her during an auction. Why did she do this? The answer is simple, yet difficult for many to grasp: The act was one of pure kindness.

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Random thoughts: BCS Rankings

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

It's that time of year again where the highly unpopular BCS ranking system rears it's ugly head. It seems nearly every coach, analyst and fan wants, at the very least, a plus one system - a compromise...

Crime rates prove campus safe

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

Lehigh University freshman Jeanne Ann Clery was murdered on her Pennsylvania college campus in 1986. Clery’s parents, unaware of her safety on campus, fought for years to make what is now known as the Clery Act a reality. The act requires American colleges and universities to inform students of the crime statistics around campus. In compliance with the act, the Department of Education released UNF’s 2007 crime statistics Oct. 1. There were 307 crimes reported in 2007 including 281 drug and alcohol violations, which would cause the threat of student-induced crime to drop less than one percent, according to the report.

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Students think pink, race for cure

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

Students, faculty, staff and administrators joined together for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Oct. 18 at Metropolitan Park. They chose to complete either the 2K or 5K run to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer patients and research. The 57 team members of the Healthy Osprey Race for the Cure team raised $690 for the event. As the largest UNF group there, it consisted of faculty, staff and administrators, but its main populous was students, said Mike Kennedy, team captain and assistant director of Health Promotions. “I really felt like this event would be a great opportunity to go [and] see what we can do to rally the campus around this event,” Kennedy said.

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Oct. 15 – Oct. 19

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

Oct. 15 – Burglary (Building 41) – UPD was dispatched to investigate a burglary from a vehicle. Because of no forced entry into the vehicle, police concluded the vehicle was not locked. A parking decal was stolen. There are no known suspects at this time. Oct. 15 – Theft (Building 26) – The complainant caught a man stealing money from a locker room of the Aquatic Center. Police listed one suspect in the theft case. The suspect was also referred to Student Conduct.

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Project geared to help navigate campus

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

“I can’t find anything.” This is what Director of Facilities Planning Zak Ovadia, who came to UNF four years ago, said his initial reaction was upon arrival on campus. “Wayfinding” is a generic term meaning to find one’s way around. It is a concept adopted by universities, hospitals and airports all across the world due to confusing and difficult floor plans. A concept that is not new to Ovadia, it is one he wanted to introduce to UNF after noticing its absence on campus.

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Demand, pay still high for right skills

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

It’s often said someone makes money even in a bad economy. Cody Bass just didn’t know how much. “A hundred thousand dollars,” the 22-year-old college senior said. That’s the annual salary that Bass – who is still a semester away from receiving his bachelor’s degree from the Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla – is to be paid for his first job out of college.

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Survey software offers improved research

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

The university has recently launched a new online survey platform called Enterprise Feedback Management Community to replace the existing WebSurveyor program. EFM Community was designed to provide faculty and staff the ability to author questionnaires, post surveys, collect responses and disseminate findings, according to an ITS statement. The preexisting software, WebSurveyor, was originally given to UNF through a grant. Once the company was bought out by Vovici, WebSurveyor was termed to discontinue its service in June 2009, said Alison Cruess Information Technology Services communications coordinator.

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Election 2008 Update – Oct. 22

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

Gallup Daily Poll for Oct. 21 has Sen. Barack Obama with a 10-point lead over Sen. John McCain. The lead varies between 7 and 10 percentage points among likely voters, depending on turnout expectations, according to Gallup.

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Gas prices, long drives make decision to live in on-campus dorms easier for some

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

Commute or get a dorm? That is the question many students find themselves asking, and many factors go into this decision. There are more than 16,000 students registered at UNF. However, 2,173 of these students live on-campus, according to the UNF Housing Department. So what goes into the decisions to live on-campus or stay at home?

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News in Brief – Oct. 22

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

Code Red put to the test, Michelle Obama visits the First Coast, Air show flies into town, Ghost hunt near courtyard, Faculty panel discusses racism, Student panel tackles global issue: “Food or Fuel”, JCM hosts Fall Festival

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Supercomputer tool to predict global weather

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

It’s as fast as 25,000 high-end laptops linked together. It has enough capacity to store 30 million novels. And someday, it might help keep you safe in severe weather. This is the Bluefire, an IBM supercomputer so powerful that scientists think it will accurately predict how global warming will affect the planet during the next 50 years. Specifically, the computer should project whether hurricanes will develop with greater frequency and more intensity. It also will forecast a host of other conditions, from excessive rains to severe drought.

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Keep looking ahead, keep campus safe

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

The 2007 UPD campus crime statistics were released Oct. 1 by the Department of Education and paint a telling picture about the status of crime on the UNF campus. Increases in robbery, burglary and drug law violations were offset by decreases in more serious crimes like arson, aggravated assault and motor vehicle theft. But what does this say about our campus? Is it safer now than ever? Looking at the big picture of the crime report, it is easy to generalize and say, for instance, that we’re willing to trade some loss of property for the relative absence of violent crime, the theft of our cars versus being engulfed in flames.

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Neither candidates offer viable economic solutions

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben S. Bernanke said Oct. 20 Congress and the President must act to stave off a worsening economic situation, adding he will support an additional stimulus package that should “include measures to help improve access to credit by consumers.” Regardless, easy credit and mal-investment – induced by federal government intervention – is the direct cause for the current economic situation, and most Americans are looking toward two men for solutions: Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. John McCain. Only in a true “two-party” system can the American public be offered two opposing candidates who agree more than disagree.

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Youth fashion trend devalues U.S. history

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

A recent trend in clothing design is boasting insignia of military divisions, and while some might think this is a great way to revere those who fought in many wars to support our country and the values we treasure, they are sorely mistaken. This trend should give the opportunity to recognize soldiers who many might not have been aware of, and it should give us a chance to pay tribute to those who are most deserving of our praise – but the youth who are wearing it are not recognizing the value of the design. Young people should be honored to have the opportunity to spread this awareness, but it seems few are even cognizant of what they are actually representing when these logos are displayed.

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Students must appreciate art

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

A growing trend among college students is the art of detaching themselves from art in museums and galleries. Art is supposed to be an experience that evokes emotions so it will be remembered for its unique style and quality, even if just for a brief moment. But enjoying what others have created in our classrooms, homes and workplaces has been abandoned as we become more accustomed to our lives in the digital age.

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Students support candidates for lack of knowledge

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

Dear Editor, I’ll keep this short and sweet though this is something I know I and many other UNF students feel so strongly about. It is very obvious which party the majority of students on campus are voting for in the upcoming election. I feel some students – not all – support one side for the wrong reasons and lack of information. I would like to throw out a few points to kick-start everyone’s thinking about why they support their chosen side.

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OP concerts do provide variety

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

Dear Editor, In his opinion column last week, John Weidner discussed entertainment brought to campus by Osprey Productions. He lamented that many acts brought by OP in recent years are on “generic top-40 radio stations” and that instead of “bringing in a variety of genres, OP is trying to find generic acts that reach the most people.” Since OP has a limited budget, it is important to bring acts that appeal to the widest audiences possible. Usually, these artists have music playing on a top-40 radio station. It is the nature of concert booking.

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O2 Green Walk

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

Hiking miles through nature trails might not be the typical way to spend a Saturday afternoon, but that’s exactly what UNF student Susan Wright plans to do. Wright’s 7-year-old daughter Emily has asthma. Although her family tries to live as normal of a life as possible, Emily constantly has coughing attacks and has to bring her medicine with her everywhere she goes. Wright, a senior nursing major, will join hundreds of Jacksonville residents Oct. 25 at the Robert W. Loftin Nature Trails on the UNF campus to participate in the inaugural O2 Green Walk

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"Top Five" one hit wonders

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

You’ve probably seen a million lists like this and most likely have numerous picks of your own. Yes, it’s the ever-popular “one-hit wonder” theme, focusing on artists who managed to muster enough thunder to pull off a memorable, sometimes great song, but for one reason or another, could never repeat the success a second time. Though the careers of these five distinguished one-timers faded away rather than burned out, rest assured they are living quite handsomely off the royalties from these classic songs in the movies, commercials and other forms of popular culture that have deemed them immortal.

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Competing networking sites changing the face of social interaction

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

Lindsey Stepkin logs into her Facebook profile and immediately checks for notifications. She has an event invitation to a friend’s birthday celebration. She confirms she will attend, and writes a comment, “You know I wouldn’t miss it!” She scans a few wall posts, responds to four and reminds herself to respond to others later. She comments on five or six more of the photos before going back to her home page. She checks once more for notifications before closing Facebook. By now, 30 minutes have gone by. Stepkin, a sophomore biology major, is one of more than 100 million active users of Facebook. There are more than 110 million users on Myspace.

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Controversy swirls around year-old anonymous campus gossip site

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

Have you ever wondered how college life would be without MySpace or Facebook? A new, fast-growing gossip network dedicated to college campuses around the nation is described by the founder as “the opposite of Facebook.” If you’re lacking juice in your life, then check out JuicyCampus.com, a Web site recently deemed as scandalous due to its obscene content and light censorship. Posts are completely anonymous and linked to the college you allegedly attend. Whether your campus is added or not, everyone has access to the postings and users can agree, disagree or reply to the blogs.

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Author focuses on worth of inter-generational relationships

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

A silver tin man charm hangs delicately off a thin silver chain – for some it might be a piece of jewelry, but for Norma Folsom, it embodied her life motto: never rust up. Folsom, 80, and her necklace served as the main inspirations for visiting UNF assistant professor Gigi Morales David’s children’s picture book “Just Mollie and Me.” Folsom has traveled all across the world, worked with the Peace Corps and taught mentally handicapped children in a small school in Guatemala.

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Good acting doesn’t bail out lackluster script in ‘W.’

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

By merely watching the previews for Oliver Stone’s new film “W.,” one could easily assume it is a one-sided critical skewing of the 43rd President of the United States. And in a bitterly fought election rife with partisan attack ads, this kind of movie would be perfectly timed. However, the film stays surprisingly centered in an, at times, almost sympathetic portrayal of George W. Bush. Oliver Stone fans looking for high-budget, grandiose cinematography and holier-than-thou viewpoints on hot-button pop culture issues will likely be disappointed, as will those who pride themselves as armchair political pundits and historians who have been following the Bush presidency.

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Homemade recipe wins Family Weekend Cook-off

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

During family weekend, UNF parents showed off their cooking skills and made their college student’s favorite homemade recipe. I was a judge during the cook-off and am reviving “College Cooking with Lori” this week to display the recipe of the Best Overall winner. Mexican Lasagna Submitted by Jaime Hamilton, Mother of student Cynthia Hamilton

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Oddball Antics

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

REALLY? I DIDN’T KNOW YOU WERE A COP A 21-year-old Atlanta man, who enjoyed impersonating a police officer, put a blue strobe light in his car and proceeded to make night-time traffic stops. This came to an end when one of the people he pulled over was his neighbor from across the street. This led to involvement by real police officers. SO, I GUESS IT’S ILLEGAL THEN, RIGHT? Police in Covington, Ky., arrested a teenager for drug trafficking while he was wearing a T-shirt that read, “It’s not illegal unless you get caught.”

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Men face high expectations in 2008-2009 season

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

A last-place finish in the Atlantic Sun Conference in 2007 with a 3-26 overall record (1-15 A-Sun) was the worst in the 15-year history of the UNF men’s basketball program. The Ospreys began formal practice Oct. 17, and despite last year’s poor record, team officials have high expectations for the upcoming season, returning all but five players. “Although our record didn’t indicate it last year, we had a chance to win a lot more games,” head coach Matt Kilcullen said. “Maturation of our players is our main focus right now. We need to improve on closing out games and hitting the big shots. Sometimes wins don’t come as soon as you want, but we are building for the long haul.”

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Inside the Huddle

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

Jason Yurgartis Features Editor	Chad Smith Graphic Designer	Rachel Elsea Copy Editor	Patty McJazzfingers Ribbon Dancer Extraordinare
Question 1: With the World Series of Poker in full swing and drawing increasing numbers of viewers each year, is professional poker becoming an enduring sport or a once a year spectacle like the Iron-Man competition?
Poker is not a sport! I can’t stress this enough. Stop wasting my time showing poker, ESPN! If everyone loves poker so much, invite me over for a game so I can take your money.	I would consider poker as much a sport as bowling, pool, and golf. As long as it draws a crowd and there is money involved. I’m game.	Poker is a card game, not a sport. I guess it’s still just a once-a-year thing, and I hope it never becomes an “enduring sport.”	I understand what it’s like to be an underappreciated athlete, but poker is not a sport.

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Errors lead to latter game loss

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

The UNF volleyball team suffered a 3-2 loss against Campbell University Oct. 17. UNF led the first two games winning the sets 25-15 and 25-18. The last two sets were lost to Campbell 25-21 and 25-20. These sets were filled with frustration and tension, said UNF head coach Kevin Campbell. “We’re frustrated,” said Campbell after Friday’s game. “We played amazingly in games one and two, but we felt a lot of tension, and that hurt us in the next two games. By the time we started playing well again, it was too late.”

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Team loses final home game to Campbell in overtime

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

The UNF women’s soccer team was defeated 2-1 in overtime by Campbell University in its last home game of the season Oct. 18. After a defensive struggle throughout regulation, Campbell’s Sarah Durham broke the tie in overtime. The Ospreys led Campbell in shots on goal 5-2 in the game, but two shots were all the Camels needed.

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Winning streak crushed four minutes into game

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

The UNF men’s soccer team’s two-game winning streak snapped Oct. 17 when the Florida Gulf Coast University Eagles defeated the Ospreys 7-1. The Ospreys went down one goal four minutes into the game when a shot was deflected off a UNF defender to score an own-goal. The Eagles scored again less than four minutes later, putting them up 2-0 early into the game. “We simply didn’t show up to play,” UNF head coach Ray Bunch said. “They played very well and took chances, and they executed exactly the way they needed to.”

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Sports in Brief – Oct. 22

Spinnaker | Oct 22, 2008

UNF’s 2009 baseball season team schedule announced UNF baseball head coach Dusty Rhodes announced his team’s schedule for the 2009 season. Last year the Ospreys picked up what is arguably the biggest series win in program history with two wins against the 22nd-ranked University of Georgia Bulldogs at Harmon Stadium.

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To withdraw or not to withdraw?

Spinnaker | Oct 21, 2008

It's about that time of the semester again, where you have to decide what your academic willpower can stand against and what just can not be done. November 7 is the last day to withdraw from Fall 08'...

Fan mail: a symbol of dedication

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Ringo Starr no longer wants his mailbox filled with fan mail. According to cnn.com, the former Beatle announced: "I want to tell you please...do not send fan mail to any address that you have. Nothing will be signed after the 20th of October. If that is the date on the envelope, it's gonna be tossed."

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Bright Futures burning out

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

The Florida Board of Governors has been in discussion about setting a cap to the Bright Futures scholarship program, with funds appropriated for need-based aid and science, technology, engineering and math majors. Tight budgets and stricter admission standards have been forcing university administrators throughout the state to look much farther for places to save money, university officials said. And with the escalating cost of the scholarship program, its future is in question. The Bright Futures program currently costs Florida nearly $400 million, and while one Florida senator has voiced for it to be phased out in the next 10 years, the program is expected to cost the state nearly $1 billion annually throughout the next decade.

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UNF plans for additional cuts

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Gov. Charlie Crist informed all state agencies June 12 that in addition to the 3.3 percent cut for the 2008-2009 fiscal year, he was going to be holding back 4 percent of the allocated budget. To cover the 3.3 percent cut, UNF administrators decided to lessen non-academic travel, eliminate 25 faculty positions, some summer classes and limit enrollment. To cover the extra 4 percent, UNF did not have to do anything – rather it covered the costs with money saved from 2008-2009 reserves. “We pulled 4 percent of [the budget] out and locked it up and set it aside for a rainy day,” UNF President John Delaney said.

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UNF divided on grading policy

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

After taking several classes at UNF, students might notice the grading scales used in their courses vary among faculty members. Earning a 90 percent with one professor who considers it to be an A lends a GPA of 4.0, while taking the same course and scoring 90 percent with a professor who considers it an A-minus results in a GPA of 3.7. Many students perceive this as an unfair system, according to the Florida Student Association, who argued in the past that students are disadvantaged by the varying grading policies.

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Election 2008 Update – Oct. 15

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Sen. Barack Obama has moved outside the margin of error and is now leading Sen. John McCain by 6.2 percent, according to the Reuters/C-Span/Zogby poll tracking. John Zogby, president and chief executive of Zogby International, visited campus to speak to a political science class and also addressed the student body at the University Center Oct. 14.

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UNF avoids high-risk investments

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

UNF’s financial investments are making positive ground and are well situated to weather the financial storm, members of the Board of Trustees said. UNF had very little capital invested into Mortgage-backed Securities – high-risk sub-prime mortgages involved in the nation-wide bailout – which relieves the portfolio of pressure other less diversified accounts will face. UNF had less than 2 percent invested in Lehman Brothers and AIG, according to the Treasurers’ Report for the 2007-2008 fiscal year.

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What issues matter most to this college generation?

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Americans agree the cost of fuel has negatively affected their family, the government was spending too little on renewable fuels, and marijuana should be legalized, according to UNF’s Public Opinion Research Laboratory. In conjunction with the university-sponsored Transformational Learning Opportunity, the laboratory conducted UNF’s first nationwide survey.

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SG election results

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Name Votes Jessica Amick 1,077 John Hodges 1,070 Priscilla Perez 1,066 Katelin...

SG approves election results despite controversy about constitutionality

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

UNF Student Government conducted a Senate meeting Oct. 13 to address the university’s first-ever election invalidation claim. The five election invalidation claims, presented by Sen. Jacqueline Simard, were eventually dismissed, and the election was validated. The Senate voted 13-1-1 to dismiss a claim that the election should be invalidated due to newly elected Sen. Jessica Amick’s name being spelled incorrectly on the ballot.

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Health addition officially opens

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

The grand opening ceremony of the Brooks College of Health addition was Oct. 10, which marked the 20-year anniversary of the original College of Health building. The addition opened Aug. 25, almost two decades after the first building. Approximately 200 people attended the ceremony including UNF faculty and medical staff, nursing students and employees of the Mayo Clinic.

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News in Brief – Oct. 15

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Basketball teams will play on the Green, Volunteer opportunities available at campus fair, Colombian artifacts exhibited in the library, Jazz series features trumpeter Dave Douglas

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Numbers don’t matter; lives do

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Capping enrollment to colleges and universities is slamming the door on many prospective students’ futures while paving their way to unemployment, a strong characteristic of the Great Depression, which is a time many college students’ great-grandparents remember quite vividly. Mary Walsh, a 96-year-old Boca Raton resident, is no exception. Her dad didn’t work, but neither did the four other dads in the house. In fact, of the six families living in Mary Walsh’s home in 1930, only one man had a job. He was the one who provided the lone pot of potatoes each night for dinner – and a spoonful of butter if they were lucky.

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Subjective grading policy might damage futures

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

UNF’s grading scale for students is very subjective. It’s a concern exemplified largely by the process all college graduates go through upon applying for jobs or graduate school – judgment and acceptance based on GPA. Although GPA isn’t the sole indicator for success in a job or graduate school, it is something very representative of a student’s performance, and there are a lot of pressures ranging from scholarship requirements to parental advice to keep it high. With no universal standard for a grading scale, how can students’ GPAs be a valid gauge of anything?

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Concerts unnoticed due to lack of variety, advertising

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Osprey Productions has brought several great musical and entertainment acts to UNF during the last several years. To help diversify and reach a broader variety of students, OP is trying to vary the type of entertainment it brings to campus. To accomplish this, OP goes through several steps to find acts that will attract students’ interest. Although OP is able to bring several great acts to UNF, its efforts will fall unnoticed due to lack of variety in the audience they are able to target.

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Everyone isn’t raised the same, that’s OK

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Dear Editor, While I respect the right of Corey Myers to express his opinion in his column, “College students abandoning values, virtues,” in the Oct. 8 issue of the Spinnaker, I would urge him to rethink the process of his argument. Perhaps I am misreading, but Myers seems to be under the mistaken assumption that, once upon a time, every member of society shared his particular values. Equally troubling is the implication that every member of society should share his beliefs, and anybody who does not is wrong.

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Involvement in scandal important to mention

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Dear Editor, I would like to comment on the recent column written by Arielle Schneider. While reading the article, I could not help but notice she ends her opinion about Sen. John McCain and Sen. Barack Obama’s platform with a statement that is clearly untrue: “Obama’s plans may seem good but apparently, only McCain truly gets economics.” It seems odd she would make this comment when McCain himself has stated he is not strong on economics.

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McCain doesn’t understand economics

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Dear Editor, In the last issue of the Spinnaker, Arielle Schneider made some strong comments regarding the upcoming presidential election. Leaving aside the problematic statement of America’s “Godly heritage,” I would like to comment on her portrayal of the McCain health care and economic plans. Sen. John McCain, the man who admitted to a Wall Street Journal reporter he needed to be educated on economics, stated the economy was strong while campaigning in Jacksonville. With banks failing, people losing their homes and citizens unable to get affordable health care, perhaps McCain is not in touch with America.

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McCain’s decisions are terrifying

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Dear Editor, In her student opinion titled "Obama's platform threatens U.S. foundations," Arielle Schneider writes Sen. Barack Obama is running on a platform "rife with socialist policies." Her solution to our current fiscal problems: Sen. John McCain, a man who "truly gets economics." Earlier this month, McCain – and Obama for that matter – voted to approve the $700 billion bailout. Then McCain pitched a $300 billion plan Oct. 8 to help struggling homeowners. In only eight days, McCain has managed to spend $1 trillion. Is this a man who truly advocates "limited government?"

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Country stars descend on UNF

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

UNF welcomed several musical acts to its campus Oct. 10 and 11. Tracy Byrd brought his own style of country to the Robinson Theatre Oct. 10. Country superstars Billy Currington and Jo Dee Messina, accompanied by Alex Winston, rocked out the UNF Arena Oct. 11. The Spinnaker got the opportunity to sit down with Jo Dee Messina and Alex Winston and talk to them about their music careers and their experiences at UNF.

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UNF English professor teaches art to incarcerated juveniles

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

UNF English professor Dr. Mary Baron has been teaching the Art in the Jail Program as a volunteer with help from UNF students for more than five years. The program teaches incarcerated juveniles at the downtown pre-trial detention facility how to analyze books, write poetry and create works of art including collages and paintings. The artwork is scheduled to be displayed at UNF the last week of October in Building 8. The Spinnaker sat down with Dr. Baron to profile the program and experiences she has had while teaching at the jail.

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Political satirist promises to perform in all 50 states

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

In the midst of this election season, another candidate has entered the political ring by making campaign promises with hopes of selling his record. Musician and political satirist Roy Zimmerman furthered his stated campaign promise of performing in all 50 states before the election with a performance Oct. 9 at UNF in the University Gallery. “[California] is the bluest state in the union; I wanted to go out to the red states and see the most progressive people in the least progressive states,” Zimmerman said.

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"Top Five" songs about money

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

In the wake of the complete economic fallout in the U.S. and the subsequent government bailout of Wall Street, here are five songs about money, greed and materialism. Here’s to the fat cats that once toasted each other with glasses of champagne to these tunes – may they enjoy them as much when they’re crying in their beer.

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Nick and Norah display endless possibilities of being young

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

The storyline in “Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist” represents an ideal social scenario that many high school students only dream about: spending one sleepless night in a hip, metropolitan city, weaving in and out of bars and clubs surrounded by good friends, killer music and typical teenage hi-jinks. Based on the 2007 novel by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan, Nick (Michael Cera) and Norah (Kat Dennings) are modern day star-crossed lovers. Both high school students from New Jersey suburbia, they encounter each other at a Lower East Village concert. Nick is playing a gig there with his band, The Jerk-Offs.

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Movies inspire, motivate athletes

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Disney’s “The Express,” released Oct. 10, tells the story of the first African-American to win the Heisman Trophy. Many athletes find the movie to be inspirational, including Washington Redskins defensive end Jason Taylor who admires the characters of the Disney movie. “The film showed the tremendous drive and determination that [Ernie Davis] had,” Taylor said in a Maryland Gazette article. “There’s a lot of kids who play to try to make it to the NFL … guys wanting to get the money and fame. You need to think back to not too long ago when there were guys like Ernie Davis and Jim Brown [who] sacrificed everything.”

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Inside the Huddle

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Jonathan Morales News Editor	Laura Franco Assistant Features Editor	Josh Salman Managing Editor	Chad Smith Graphic Designer
Question 1: China’s national table tennis team is sending Olympic singles silver medalist Wang Hao to counseling after security stopped him from urinating outside a karaoke club. Is there anyway Hao’s act is justifiable?
Is it really worth fighting for nature’s call? Yes. Whether you fight the urge to urinate outside of a karaoke club or fight the security guard, you’re going down for resisting.	Has anyone seen how fast these players hit and return ping pong balls? That fact alone should send the entire team to counseling.	I cannot defend the fight, but when you got to go, you got to go.	If I was Wang Hao, I would turn and continue urinating on the security guard – telling him that being a two-time Olympic medalist gives me special privileges over him and his rent-a-cop day job.

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Sophomores shine in 3-1 victory

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Four sophomores on the UNF volleyball team helped lead the way Oct. 10 to a 3-1 upset against Stetson University. UNF won 25-16, 23-25, 25-18, 25-20 and recorded its most accurate hitting percentage since its Sept. 12 game against Kennesaw State University with a .200 hitting percentage. UNF (8-7, 6-3 A-Sun) was backed by sophomore setter Madie Belvin’s season-high of 59 assists and 16 digs, and sophomore defensive specialist Chelsea Rabe’s 11 digs.

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Swoop Madness, rivalry on mind

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Last time, I mentioned practicing on the mini-trampoline and that it looks easier on TV. One week later and I feel the same way. Either way, I’m going to debut the stunt Oct. 17 at Swoop Madness. It might be the most amazing thing you’ve ever seen and end up on ESPN’s “Top 10 Plays.” Or you could witness a crash landing, resulting in a broken mass of bird. I’m excited!

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Sports in Brief

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

Team sells shirts for a cause The UNF volleyball team is partnering with the Side-Out Foundation to help raise money for breast cancer research.

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Lone goal brings third conference win

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

The UNF Ospreys men’s soccer team defeated the Mercer University Bears 1-0 Oct. 11 with sloppy field conditions at Hodges Stadium, giving the Ospreys their third Atlantic Sun Conference victory of the year. The game was a must-win for the Ospreys (6-6-0, 3-1-0 A-Sun) and great opportunity to bounce back from a disappointing 3-0 loss to Campbell Oct. 9, UNF head coach Ray Bunch said. Although it didn’t rain, the field was covered in mud and water from the days prior, Bunch said. “In these conditions, it’s such a heavy field that it really zaps you, and I think it showed in the second half,” Bunch said. “We were just trying to get the ball in wide and get some crosses.”

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Women drown to Florida Gulf Coast in first home loss of season

Spinnaker | Oct 15, 2008

The UNF women’s soccer team lost at home for the first time this season Oct. 10 against Florida Gulf Coast University 5-0. The game started an hour late due to a rain delay and was intensified by the condition of the field at Hodges Stadium, which had been drenched by rain the last two days. Instead of a test of speed and agility, the match became a challenge to see who could move the ball the most in the field-turned-swamp.

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Jaguars look for identity in bye-week: Week 7 Power rankings

Spinnaker | Oct 14, 2008

The Jacksonville Jaguars have been playing the part of Two-Face so far in the NFL this season. The Jaguars looked like a Superbowl caliber team in wins over the Denver Broncos and division rival Indianapolis Colts. However, in games against the Tennessee Titans and Buffalo Bills the Jaguars have struggled to find a consistent identity. With the Jaguars having a bye week in week seven they need to use their break to figure out which team they really are.

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How to save money on a budget

Spinnaker | Oct 14, 2008

It all started with one simple idea--what if I could go on a vacation with my own savings? Then I found a reason to do it when my favorite play moved to Broadway in New York City. After five months of saving, this broke college student is staying in one of the most expensive cities in the world for four nights and five days. Let me tell you how I did it.

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Presenters visit UNF to introduce combined ideas of fear and voting

Spinnaker | Oct 13, 2008

Filmmaker Greg Bennick and social psychologist Sheldon Solomon will be speaking at UNF on “Terror at the Voting Booth” at 7 p.m. Oct. 15 in the Robinson Theater. Bennick will be showcasing his film, “Flight from Death: The Quest for Immortality,” a documentary about the psychological human conflicts with death and how it can affect one’s decision making. The discussion will focus particularly on the harms that arise from reminders of death, which can shape one’s views in the political realm and perhaps manipulates the way one decides to vote, Bennick said.

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Downtown skyline home to UNF expansion

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

UNF administrators have been trying to establish a larger presence in the community for years. In 2004 they began the transition of upgrading the athletic program to Division I status. In 2006 they approved proposals for several new construction projects. And during the past two years, they’ve implemented several community-based transformational learning programs.

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Alcohol, drugs main violations addressed by Student Conduct

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

When a student violates university policy, several members of the UNF community get involved in the process of dealing with the student. The Division of Student Affairs, the Student Conduct office and UPD all cooperate together to ensure the community’s welfare and proper functioning. “[The sanctioning process] is predominantly a learning opportunity where students get a chance to reflect on their conduct and evaluate how it relates to the UNF Mission Statement and the UNF Institutional Goal,” said Lindsay Bryant, associate director of Student Life.

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Sep 29. – Oct 6.

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

Sept. 29 – Harassment (not specified) – A student made a complaint with UPD about her roommate sending her several threatening text messages and potentially starting a fight about something she said to her. UPD advised her to contact them if anything else should arise. Sept. 30 – Sick person (Building 12) – UPD responded to a student who stated she was dizzy and about to faint. She was transported to the Mayo Clinic. Sept. 30 – Suspicious behavior (Lot 12) – UPD was dispatched to investigate a student walking down UNF Drive. She stated she was going through personal issues and had not eaten in two days. After assessing her, she was transported to Baptist Memorial Hospital.

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UNF students join 5,000 to hear Sarah Palin

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

On the heels of the presidential candidates’ stop in the First Coast, Gov. Sarah Palin visited the Jacksonville Landing to speak to more than 5,000 supporters. Palin continued her role as “attack dog” by alleging Sen. Barack Obama lacks dedication to the troops, supports high tax policies and has an association with domestic terrorist William Ayers. Among those present, Robert Foster, UNF College Republican president, sparred with the crowd from the high-rises, instigating chants of “Country, First” and “Sarah, Palin.”

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Obama: Service is crucial

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

Democratic presidential nominee Sen. Barack Obama hosted a conference call Oct. 4 with more than 60 college media outlets to discuss what students have at stake in this election. Obama discussed affordable college tuition and after-graduation job placement, as well as several other initiatives that affect students. He promised to help give young people greater access to the American dream by giving a tax cut to every American pursuing a college degree.

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Election 2008 Update – Oct. 8

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

The Gallup Daily Poll tracking has Sen. Obama with a nine-point lead over Sen. McCain in likely voters polled between Oct. 4-6. This is the biggest lead Obama has had since he accepted the presidential nomination on the Democrats’ ticket.

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Garner: Cross contamination is hindering UNF recycling efforts

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

Cross contamination is hindering efforts to improve recycling at UNF despite new trash cans, recycle bins and raised student awareness, said Jerry Garner, assistant superintendent of the UNF Recycling/Refuse Center. Cross contamination occurs when trash is thrown in with recyclables and must be taken out by hand. “Make a point to put the trash in the trash and the recycle in the recycle,” Garner said. Approximately 150 brown bins for garbage and recycling are located around campus. Costing $825 a piece, the containers are made of recycled plastic and are expected to last longer than normal garbage cans, Garner said.

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How UNF stacks up

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

A quick look at the various parking and transit options at some Florida universities gives a side-by-side comparison of the factors most important to students.

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Gandhi society sponsors birthday celebration

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

Gandhi supporters met on campus near the Gandhi statue Oct. 2, singing songs and presenting speeches about the beliefs and teachings of the peaceful leader. The group met for International Non-Violence Day, which is also Gandhi’s birthday. The celebration was a reminder that the core teachings of Gandhi were non-violence, truth and peace, according to the Gandhi Memorial Society.

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Local memorial organization cleans up UNF campus

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

About 30 volunteers from a humanitarian group met Oct. 4 to pick up litter and weed landscape beds around campus. Although students were allowed to sign up and participate, none showed. The Gandhi Memorial Society, a non-profit organization in Jacksonville, collaborated with South Asian Americans Leading Together and UNF’s Volunteer Center to make the event possible. Physical Facilities provided all the tools needed. Most of the volunteers were members of the society. Others were children or friends of members, and not affiliated with the university in any way.

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Freshman weight gain isn’t par for course

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

It’s difficult to think of a way to add pounds faster than living the stereotypical college lifestyle. Juggling coursework, jobs and a social life leaves little time for exercising or even regular meals. Late-night study sessions are often fueled by the nearest 24-hour greasy spoon. Getting too little sleep can also trick the body into craving more food.

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News in brief – Oct. 8

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

Housing increase approved, Former Ambassador discusses women in politics, Lt. Governor visits UNF, Get your flu shot here

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Cell phone gap leaves college students out of ‘08 presidential polling figures

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

November 4 is drawing near. On that day, the fates of Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. John McCain will be decided in what many consider a pivotal election for the U.S. Pollsters around the country are painting pictures of the developing horse race and the media is filled with tales of who is ahead and who is behind.

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Bailout bill passes despite pork

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

The Senate and Congress recently approved the contentious H.R. 1424 – legislation that is purported to bring stability back to the market. Why then is this “dire” legislation laden with pork from environmental issues to motorsport racing to rural school subsidies? Congress initially rejected the bailout bill Sept. 29, and the Senate quickly went to work crafting an amendment with the aim of winning representatives through earmarks and pork spending.

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Students must take pride in nature-friendly school

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

Football teams and Greek Rows – UNF doesn’t have the traditional college accessories that bring students together to stand proud for their university. But it is unique. And since UNF students might never have a football team to cheer for, they must recognize the unique values of the school they are a part of and support them.

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Model parking after bigger schools

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

It’s a topic that gets coverage by the Spinnaker almost every month, and although parking has come a long way since UNF opened in 1972, it seems to always be at least one step behind perfection. With its designations of being a commuter school and local college, UNF has suffered from lack of traditions and a burgeoning college life normally found on campuses like the University of Florida and Florida State University. Since it is a commuter school, Parking Services should do more for the many students who hold full-time day jobs and attend night classes.

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Obama’s platform threatens U.S. foundations

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

As November draws nearer – when I’ll vote for the first time – I realize how important my one vote might be. Let me be frank. If we as citizens of the U.S. desire economic security, limited government involvement in our lives, fewer abortions, stricter laws on crime, lower taxes and a capitalist system, our presidential candidate for 2008 is Sen. John McCain. While Barack Obama is persuasive and charismatic, he is running on a platform rife with socialist policies that seek to destroy two reasons America is so great – its Godly heritage and its capitalist system.

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College students abandoning virtues, values

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

Many youths don’t believe in waiting until high school for sex, let alone waiting until marriage. A vast amount of minors experience sexual activities before puberty, according to a study by Ontario Consultants on Religious Tolerance, which revealed 63 percent of youth aged 14-21 are sexually active. It also reported 70 percent of youth become sexually active before graduating from high school.

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What is wrong with politics? Let’s begin with stereotypes.

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

n the last issue of the Spinnaker, one of the Senate candidates, Jason “Mad Dog” Kroitor, made the following reference: “I will restore fiscal responsibility in the Senate because I’m Jewish, and you know I won’t waste your money!” There are at least two errors made in this statement. First, Student Government ran a surplus last year. The second, and more concerning error, is that all Jews are good with money.

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Aquatic Center

Spinnaker | Oct 8, 2008

The UNF Aquatic Center offers a wide variety of healthy activities and plenty of sun and relaxation- and it’s all included in tuition. The aquatic center is located on the North side of campus next to the Arena and is in its 21st year of operation. Students only need to present their Osprey cards to be granted full access to the facilities. The center was the only university facility in the nation to win a National Parks and Recreation Award in 2002. The award recognizes agencies that demonstrate excellence in planning and managing diversified aquatic activities.

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