Monday, July 3rd, 2023

Politics and involvement: Understanding UF Student Government

Reflecting on Summer A, Senators share experiences, offer advice to new students

With drama rivaling that of U.S. elected officials and a budget bigger than some small cities, UF Student Government can be exciting and intimidating for new students.

As the UF Summer B SG term begins, incoming students might wonder how they can get involved with SG given the multitude of agencies or committees across the branches.

UF SG is the direct link between the university and its students, according to its website.

SG has three branches — the executive, legislative and judicial — mirroring the U.S. federal government’s structure.

Most notably, SG handles a great deal of the university’s finance and budget, which typically totals more than $20 million.

The current executive student body officers are Student Body President Olivia Green, Student Body Vice President Clara Calavia and Student Body Treasurer Nyla Pierre, all affiliated with the Gator Party.

The legislative branch officers consist of Senate President Oscar Santiago Perez (Change-District D)

and Senate President Pro-Tempore Nathan McGinnis (ChangeTolbert).

The branch will also consist of Fall and Spring Senators and standing committees. The Student Senate is composed of 100 senators: 50 based on colleges and classifications and 50 based on location.

Senators are elected by their peers and work for a yearlong term to represent their constituencies and make educated decisions based on their behalf.

Legislative officers oversee Senate meetings, held every Tuesday evening during the Fall, Spring and Summer semesters. Senate meetings are open to the public and take place in the Senate Chambers of the Reitz Union.

Senate meetings give representatives the opportunity to speak during public comment, hear and vote on legislation.

SG allocates the activity and service fees and divides them into three main entities: the J. Wayne Reitz Union and Student Activities and Involvement, Recreational Sports and SG.

The Budget and Appropriations Committee of the Senate holds hearings for each of the entities in the Summer to ensure the funding

continues to be spent in the best interest of the students.

Catherine Giordano (GatorDistrict A) served as the Budget and Appropriations Committee chairwoman for the Spring and Summer 2022 terms. She authored the current amended budget for the 2022-2023 school year, a total of $22,574,624.

Blake Cox (Gator-District A), the current chairman of the Budget and Appropriations Committee, has the responsibility to hold hearings with the committee to establish a budget for the next fiscal year each Spring.

The activity and service fee budget funds a wide variety of things at UF, most notably student organizations, and events. One of these includes Student Government Productions, which features nationally recognized artists and performers at a free or reduced cost to students.

Another agency, the ACCENT Speakers Bureau, brings prominent, influential and controversial speakers to campus.

UF’s ACCENT Speakers Bureau is the largest student-run speakers bureau in the nation and has been part of the campus for more than 40 years.

Senators and chairpersons

reflect on their experiences with UF Student Government involvement from their freshman year to now, sharing what made them join and what they’ve learned.

Calavia wants students to know applications for Assistant Directors for SG Cabinet will open in the first few weeks of school in the Fall. The roles in the Cabinet are chair, director and assistant director. Some of the roles include planning events, launching campus initiatives and collaborating with other campus partners.

“This is a great opportunity, especially for underclassmen, to get involved in Student Government,” Calavia wrote. “You will have 24 different Cabinets to choose from including LGBTQ+ Affairs, First Generation Affairs, Multicultural Affairs, Health Affairs and Community Involvement among many others.”

To stay updated when applications open, follow UF SG on Instagram, Calavia said, and feel free to email her for any questions.

Santiago Perez began attending UF at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic and became involved with SG during their sophomore year.

“During my time here, I have found so many people who are

motivated to break the status quo to improve the quality of life for students on this campus,” Santiago Perez wrote. “This passion is what drove me to join, and I encourage people with that passion to find their place within Student Government.”

Santiago Perez encouraged students to reach them through their email, or visit during their office hours, which are listed on the SG website.

After not getting a seat in the Replacement and Agenda Committee their freshman year, current Judiciary Committee Chairperson Jonathan C. Stephens (Change-District D) learned firsthand how SG teaches three critical principles integral to life. “1. Grit will get you through some of your darkest times in life, 2. Taking the easy path is never worth it in the long run, and 3. Your identity is your power, not your weapon,” Stephens wrote. “This is your government, so never be afraid to stand up for what you believe in!”

More information about SG can be found on its website and Instagram page.

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Supreme Court rejects affirmative action for college admissions

FLORIDA PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES HAVEN’T USED AFFIRMATIVE ACTION SINCE 1999

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled against affirmative action at all colleges and universities in a landmark case June 29. The Court ruled the affirmative action admission policies of Harvard and the University of North Carolina, which considers potential students’ races to decide admission, are unconstitutional. The Court decided colleges and universities can no longer take race into consideration during the admissions process. Until now, a 1978 Supreme Court decision ruled colleges and universities may consider race and ethnicity in

admission.

Students for Fair Admissions, a student activist group, brought cases against both colleges in 2014 for discrimination against white and Asian American applicants. Florida universities haven’t used race as a factor in admissions for decades due to the One Florida Initiative implemented in 1999. The initiative was an effort to increase diversity in the state without using discriminatory practices.

Right after UF stopped considering race as a factor in admissions, there was an increase in Black and Hispanic student admissions. However, two decades later, the gap between white and minority students at UF has only grown.

The Florida Board of Governors establishes that all Florida universities must not include preferences based

UF’s colorful courses bring excitement to student schedules

From scuba diving in Devil’s Den to raising bee colonies, UF students can take advantage of courses that could potentially spark newfound passions.

UF offers more than 120 nonmajor classes for students to take outside of their required course loads. These classes range from teaching students

SPORTS/SPECIAL/CUTOUT

UF baseball loses title

Story description finish with comma, pg#

about dance and music to dinosaurs and bees. Although Summer B enrollment closed, UF will offer courses during the upcoming fall semester.

Students with an interest in the arts have the opportunity to explore courses, including Beginning Improvisation, Dance Appreciation for the TwentyFirst Century, Art Appreciation: American Diversity and Global Arts, Introduction to World

Florida falls in national championship.

Read more on pg. 14

Libraries, study rooms and technology, oh my!

Musics and Beginning Fiction

Writing.

Those with previous musical or artistic experience also can enroll in more advanced courses after they meet certifications and requirements. The specific qualifications can be found on the university’s course registration page and discussed with an adviser. Students feeling adventurous

All things activism

There are many ways to get involved in political activism, pg. 7 Students talk transportation Gainesville offers different ways to get around town, pg. 7

SEVEN LIBRARIES ARE LOCATED ON UF’S MAIN CAMPUS

As incoming Summer B students swarm UF campus, library resources ranging from expansive research databases to free-for-rent technology await them.

The main UF campus is home to seven libraries, including

Marston Library, Library West, Library East, Health Science Center Library, Education Library, Architecture and Fine Arts Library and the College of Law’s Legal Information Center.

The two most popular libraries include Marston and Library West, both for its locations central to campus and for the accessibility services offered to students with disabilities.

Library hours are limited during the summer and can be

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Students can enroll in more than 120 non-major classes

4 ALLIGATOR MONDAY, JULY 3, 2023

Gainesville residents, leadership unhappy after state GRU takeover

The DeSantis-appointed board will take over Oct. 1

A board hand-picked by Gov. Ron DeSantis will take control of Gainesville Regional Utilities within the next few months.

House Bill 1645, commonly known as the GRU Bill, went into effect July 1. The law creates the Gainesville Regional Utilities Authority — a board consisting of five appointees to govern over GRU — and removes the GRU general manager.

GRU was founded in 1912 and is the state's fifth-largest municipality utility system, providing water, electricity and natural gas to the City of Gainesville.

The bill passed the Florida House of Representatives 81 to 33 April 27 and the Senate 30 to 9 May 4.

HB 1645 marks Rep. Chuck Clemons’ second time attempting to create a GRU authority. He introduced a similar bill, HB 759, in 2017 that required a referendum to pass. Residents voted against it in November 2018.

David Cullen, a 73-year-old lobbyist representing Sierra Club, an environmental organization, said Gainesville residents wouldn’t have supported the legislation if put to a vote.

“That's why this bill didn't include that requirement for the referendum,” Cullen said. “There's no way it would have passed a referendum in Gainesville.”

The decision was politically motivated to undermine the efforts of the Democrat-majority

local government in Gainesville given the Florida legislature's Republican supermajority, Cullen said.

“The surface area [of Gainesville] is largely blue, and the governor and his people are going to be decidedly red,” he said. “We are concerned that the policies that will be pursued by this new board will not be environmentally friendly; they will not be reflective of the desires of the people of Gainesville.”

The board will govern GRU independently of the city commission and the city charter officers and will include at least one member outside of Gainesville to serve on the board for four-year terms.

The board may “establish and amend the rates, fees, assessments, charges, rules, regulations and policies governing the sale and use of services provided through the utilities,” according to a legislative staff analysis report.

District 4 City Commissioner Bryan Eastman believed the rejection of HB 759 in the 2018 referendum settled the debate. He spoke out against the new bill when it was introduced in April.

Since the introduction of HB 1645, the city commission has tried to reach Clemons to reach a middle ground and alleviate concerns, said Eastman.

City staff and outside counsel have worked with the commission to understand the bill’s ramifications.

The board may also buy real estate and construct projects to ensure the utility company is

Have an event planned?

appropriately maintained and remains economically healthy.

The law also limits transfers from the utility fund to Gainesville, with the net revenue minus the company's expenses determining the transfer limit. The law will dedicate any surplus funds from the transfer to help pay GRU’s debt.

For Eastman, the bill has constitutional issues and should be disputed moving forward.

“This is an unprecedented attack on our local community. This is an assault on our democracy, and it will likely lead to raises and people's GRU rates as it already has with a $3 million increase in payments that we have to make on our interest, and that's probably just the beginning,” Eastman said.

Moreover, GRU has been paying down its debts, Eastman said.

“We're just getting to a point now where we can start moving into our averages and bringing those rates down, which is why it's a real shame that it is that right at this moment that the state is coming in and taking over our utility,” he said.

GRU’s debt is around $1.2 billion, according to an Auditor's General report.

Some county residents hope the change may alleviate rising utility costs.

Angela Casteel, a 47-yearold Alachua resident and GRU customer, said the bill could be a positive change for GRU customers.

“I certainly would love to see the board consider using the customers for a better GRU as a platform to get input on what needs to be fixed,” she said. Having outside input could help GRU in the decision-making process, Casteel added.

Other representatives hope to get logistical answers about cooperating with the authority as soon as possible. The time to debate the decision passed, said Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward. Now, Ward’s “working to develop a better understanding of the way this new board will operate.”

Gov. DeSantis will elect the board by Oct. 1.

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Landmark case affects admissions

on “race [or] color” during the admissions process, according to its admissions regulations.

“Florida is proof that diversity can be achieved without affirmative action,” the BOG wrote in a statement.

The majority of the Court, including all six conservative justices, believes the universities violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment.

The majority ruled affirmative action at these colleges involves “racial stereotyping.”

The minority of the Court, including justices Sonia Sotomayor, Ketanji Brown Jackson and Elena Kagan, dissented in support of affirmative action.

“Today, this Court stands in the way and rolls back decades of precedent and momentous progress,” Sotomayor said.

UF describes itself as a diverse and equitable environment for all students and employees, according to its website.

The university prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, according to its regulations.

UF Spokesperson Cynthia Roldan wrote in an email there is no single factor that influences admissions decisions, including race.

“[UF is] guided by a comprehensive, holistic review process that evaluates the academic and nonacademic criteria of applicants, in addition to requirements under federal and state laws as well as the Florida Board of Governors’ regulations,” Roldan wrote.

While Florida university and college students aren’t

directly impacted by the Supreme Court’s decision, they feel strongly about the wider implications.

Oscar Santiago Perez, a 20-year-old political science and criminology senior, thinks the Supreme Court striking down affirmative action only regresses university communities, they said.

While Florida has banned affirmative action for the last two decades, Santiago Perez worries how this will affect students at universities all across the nation that employ affirmative action techniques.

“I think that affirmative action served to correct the harm that was done to minority groups,” Santiago Perez said. “ [It was also] in line with policies that were enacted during the Reconstruction period to ensure that Black Americans could be on equal footing in this country.”

Mikayla Stesney, an 18-year-old Santa Fe College health sciences sophomore, doesn’t agree with the Supreme Court’s decision but believes affirmative action can be useful or harmful depending on how it’s implemented, she said.

“Race and minority status are important to consider when looking at an applicant, however, other data needs to be looked at … to make sure admissions is conducted with a holistic review of each applicant,” Stesney said. Affirmative action can bring diversity to a campus and give students the opportunity to expand their own views, she said.

“The question that comes to mind is why would the Supreme Court feel the need to restrict something that has been shown to be useful for a student body,” Stesney said.

Exploring entertaining coursework

can easily make their thrilling interests part of a weekly schedule. UF offers certificates for specializations like Animal Genetics and Ceramics and also a certification in the Openwater Scuba Diving course.

Openwater Scuba Diving teaches students the fundamentals of the skill. From compass navigation to diving preparation, the course prepares students for open water dives and exposes them to open water environments for practice.

Openwater Scuba Diving last spring semester and recommends the course to students.

“They also provide you with a lot of medical certifications at the end of the course as a part of the rescue aid,” he said.

For students looking to explore Florida’s verdancy, students can pick from Tree and Small Fruit Production to Local Flora of North Florida.

Beekeeping I provides an opportunity to learn about the biology of bees and interact with their colonies.

Jude Singleton, a 20-year-old UF linguistics junior, believes false narratives surrounding affirmative action fueled the decision, they said.

“A lot of the dominant conservative coverage is eager to fantasize about some elimination of qualified white students from college campuses having been averted by the Court’s decision,” Singleton said.

Prohibiting affirmative action will negatively impact BIPOC communities who face discrimination in the face of systemic issues, they said.

UF College Democrats released a statement opposing the Court’s decision.

“The University of Florida College Democrats vehemently opposes this decision as it does not promote values of equity and fairness that the US should exemplify,” the organization wrote in a statement.

Joaquin Rafaele Marcelino, an 18-year-old UF biochemistry and political science sophomore, thinks the decision provides an opportunity for unity.

During a time of attacks against diversity, equity and inclusion at universities, students should be focusing on fighting legislators who want to erase diverse communities, they said.

“It is important that we recognize that minority communities should come together to uplift each other and that there is strength and better futures when we work together — not when fighting each other,” Rafaele Marcelino said.

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I last spring and learned a variety of content all while receiving a hands-on learning experience by visiting the bee colonies, she said.

“I really appreciate them more with their role in pollinating,” she said.

Ortega joined the UF Bee Club after she took the course.

If bees are not of scholarly interest, students can instead learn about prehistoric creatures in the Age of Dinosaurs course.

Coe Leavengood, a 19-year-old UF Spanish sophomore, took the course last spring and learned about the principles of geology, paleontology and biology, he said.

the brontosaurus was interesting to me,” Leavengood said. “I have also always loved dinosaurs, so being able to study them more was really enjoyable.”

Leavengood enjoyed the course so much he decided to take another geology course during Summer A, he said.

Students with an interest in learning a new language can select from a wide range of language courses like Spanish, Portuguese, French, Latin, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Vietnamese and many more. American Sign Language is also offered.

Additional courses and course numbers can be found in UF’s course catalog.

Legasse Remon, a 19-year-old UF computer science sophomore, took

Sarah Ortega, a 19-year-old UF animal science sophomore, took Beekeeping

“Learning about challenges in the field such as uncertain classification of

Best places to study

Each library consists of various study areas in different floors with a variety of volumes for access and subject-expert librarians for extra assistance. The lowest floors typically allow for group conversation while higher floors are meant for silent studying.

Study rooms with monitors and whiteboards are also available for students to reserve. Students can book study rooms on the George A. Smathers Library website.

April Hines, the UF College of Journalism and Communications

librarian, teaches students how to find information in the school’s library system and holds one-onone research consultations.

Students are always surprised to know about the types of resources the libraries have to offer, Hines said.

“The libraries actually have fun stuff beyond academic materials,” Hines said.

Hines encourages students to utilize resources such as graphic novels, popular movies and take-home technology. Some of the technology includes sewing machines, 3D printers and film cameras.

A list of available take-home equipment and information regarding reservations can be

found on its website.

Hines recommends contacting the Ask-a-Librarian service or a subject area specialist for any questions. A directory of subject area specialists can be found on its website.

Ask-a-Librarian is a service for students to ask library and research-related questions from reference staff.

“If you can find a librarian for your major, you can always reach out to them for help with finding resources and research tips,” Hines said.

Judith Russell, the dean of university libraries, recommends incoming students review UF’s Undergraduate Guide to the George A. Smathers Libraries, which can be found on its website.

Jared Craig, a 21-year-old UF

public health senior, is a student assistant for the Health Science Library, located directly across from the College of Public Health and Health Professions.

Craig offers the first-floor or third-floor study rooms in the Health Science Library for group collaborations.

“If you’re more of a strugglesolo kind of person, I would say grab a comfortable seat on the third floor,” Craig said.

Craig hopes students ask library aides questions at the circulation desks because there are many under-utilized resources, he said.

“There are so many resources available that so many students don’t use,” Craig said.

For years, UF students have held a debate over which library is the best: Marston or Library

West.

@nicolebeltg nbeltran@allligator.org found updated daily on the UF website.

Trent Crick, a 20-year-old UF health science junior, suggests the study rooms in either Library West or Marston for group studying.

“I am biased because I lived closest to them… but they definitely [gave me] a quiet space to focus,” Crick said.

Isabella Rodriguez, a UF political science and criminology student, recommends the second floor behind the bookshelves or anywhere on the fourth floor of Library West.

“The UF library was one of my favorite places my freshman year,” Rodriguez said. “I would always go to Library West for the atmosphere.”

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We’re just around the corner: Meet The Alligator

Join our staff as a reporter, copy editor or photographer, As you try to figure out where your classes are or find out what bars you can get into, you’ll probably start to notice us, too, around Gainesville.

Whether you come across a breaking news post from one of our many Instagram accounts (@TheAlligator_, @ AlligatorSports, @TheFloridaAve and @ElCaimanGNV) or you see a colorful front page peeking through the window of an orange newspaper box, The Independent Florida Alligator wants to be an essential part of your Gainesville experience. We print our newspapers every Monday, and we publish our stories online throughout the week. We spend hours every Sunday writing and editing the stories you read on these pages from our overcrowded and somewhat abandoned office right off 13th Street.

From the Gators’ newest star football commitment to the latest restaurant closing for a new luxury apartment complex, we do our best to provide the best coverage in North Central Florida. We cover stories within UF campus and far beyond,

bridging the gap between the student and local populations. It’s all Gainesville, and we love to share it.

Our work isn’t always easy — in fact, it’s more surprising when it is. The Alligator is a student-run publication — independent from UF. More than 40 staff members, including editors, reporters, photographers, social team and copy editors make The Alligator possible every week.

The hard work our staff puts in doesn’t go unnoticed. Our reporting on issues like cases of abuse in UF’s athletic department and UF President Ben Sasse’s arrival have been picked up by national outlets.

For our last year of coverage, the Society of Professional Journalists awarded our publication the Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper in the country. So yeah, we’re the best.

It only takes a talented group of ambitious, dedicated students to achieve this feat, and we want you to be a part of it. Let the vibrant Alligator newsroom be part of your college experience just like it was of ours — you won’t regret it.

The Alligator is opening applications for reporting positions on multiple desks, as well as copy editing and photographer positions. This is your chance to learn more about the community you live in, as well as aid our coverage of the people who live here.

We employ UF and Santa Fe students, and you don’t have to be a journalism major.

Being part of The Alligator staff connects students to a large, diverse and distinguished alumni network. Alligator alumni have gone on to positions, fellowships and professional internships at The New York Times, Washington Post, CNN, The Daily Beast, Miami Herald, Tampa Bay Times, Orlando Sentinel, Sun Sentinel, The Palm Beach Post and more. Our alumni include this year’s New York Times fellows, Kalia Richardson and April Rubin, as well as at least four Pulitzer Prize Winners.

Beyond joining an expansive alumni network, working at The Alligator is a great opportunity to meet other passionate student journalists and make lifelong friendships. Hundreds of successful journalists, authors, writers and more started their careers at The Alligator. We’re ready to continue that tradition and build the next generation of Alligator journalists. Now’s your chance to join!

Getting around Gainesville: UF transportation options, explained

UF students share their go-to forms of transportation around campus

There are plenty of ways to get around UF, whether it’s taking the bus, riding a scooter or spending hours driving around campus trying to find a parking spot.

Depending on where a student lives, on or off campus, different transportation options might be less or more ideal based on important perks and drawbacks each option has. Each student can find their own best way to get around campus.

UF parking permit

Parking permits will be required for all parking spots within UF’s campus for the start of the Summer B semester July 3.

Students looking to renew or purchase an on-campus permit can go to UF’s Transportation and Parking Services website. Parking permits are organized based on graduate level, place of residence and credit hours.

Parking permits will be enforced; students parked without a permit will be issued a citation, and after three citations a student’s car can be impounded. Students and nonstudents can file an appeal through the TAPS website if they find a citation unjust.

RTS bus system

Gainesville’s local bus network, Regional Transit System, can transport students between on-campus buildings, off-campus apartments and downtown landmarks. Due to the decrease in student presence during the summer, about a dozen routes will have fewer buses on weekdays and even fewer during the weekends.

The decrease will lead to less frequent bus arrivals and longer wait times. Bus routes that primarily trav-

el within UF’s campus will not be serviced during the weekends. Bus routes, schedules and other information can be found in the GNV RidesRTS and GatorSafe app.

Motorcycle and scooters

Similarly with parking permits for cars, motorcycles and scooters are required to register a permit with UF Transportation Services at the start of each semester.

Drivers can find specific parking for their vehicles throughout campus in the marked areas for motorcycles and scooters.

Olivia D’agati, a 20-year-old UF microbiology and cell science junior, failed to find parking for her car on campus. Instead, she feels confi-

dent driving to campus on a moped knowing she won’t struggle to find a spot, she said.

“I don’t think getting on campus with a car is easy,” D’agati said.

She recommends incoming students consider biking, walking, scootering or riding mopeds to get around.

Similar to D’agati, Joseph Simmons, a 19-year-old UF microbiology and soil science sophomore, found walking to be a more efficient alternative to driving, he said.

“It’s just easier for me to walk instead of driving my car because I don’t own a skateboard or a smaller form of transportation like a bike,” Simmons said. “And then if I were to use my car, I wouldn’t be able to park near my classes, so it actually

lengthens the amount of time to get to my class.”

RideShare apps and SNAP

Lyft’s partnership with UF continues during Summer B. The app allows student riders to get a maximum discount of $15 per ride. Discounted rides are available Wednesday through Sunday from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. in specific locations.

The program only runs during each semester and excludes school breaks.

Student Nighttime Auxiliary Patrol (SNAP) is another form of alternative transportation, sponsored by UF Student Government, Student Traffic Court and UF TAPS. Students can safely request rides through UF’s

property via the UF SNAP app.

The service is offered daily from 8:30 p.m. to 3 a.m. during the summer semester, excluding summer breaks.

Bicycles

For new cyclists, UF Bikes is a program that offers bicycle assistance, information and protection for all riders.

Bicycle racks are available throughout campus, as well as secure bike parking located in Garage 14 for anyone with a GatorOne ID. Spots for the secure parking lot are available by reservation only and can be accessed through the UF Bikes website.

For bike riders who find themselves needing maintenance such as air for their tires or a chain fixed, UF has fix-it stations placed throughout campus for any unfortunate rider.

UF Police Department offers a bike registry in the event that someone’s bike is stolen.

To register a bike, people can visit the UF Public Safety Office on the first floor of the Reitz Union.

Jordan Yu, an 18-year-old UF data science sophomore, said UPD was accommodating when he started commuting by bike.

“[UPD is] very helpful and friendly,” Yu said. “They registered my bike under their name… so if I ever lose it I can go to them and get it back.

Not only is biking accessible within UF, but RTS buses have bike racks available on each bus allowing riders to travel throughout Gainesville without the lack of accessibility of their bike.

From bikes and cars to e-scooters and bus services, there are plenty of ways to get to and from class throughout the summer semester.

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A roadmap to activism and political involvement for UF students

STUDENTS CAN WORK WITH CITY LEADERS, DRAFT LEGISLATION AND ORGANIZE PROTESTS’

With the flood of state legislation reshaping areas like education and gun control that took effect July 1, political tensions in Florida have reached a boiling point.

From city-level government positions to partisan political advocacy organizations to non-partisanship coalitions, there are limitless ways for UF students to dive into political activism and support their local community following the 2023 legislative session.

Local government

For local government, UF students can apply for vacant positions on Gainesville city boards and committees, with some roles designated for students.

City departments tackle areas that impact

local residents like economic development, arts and culture programs, housing and law enforcement.

Jonathan C. Stephens, a 20-year-old UF food science sophomore, is a member of Gainesville’s Human Rights Board and Nature Centers Commission.

The Human Rights Board makes recommendations on discrimination cases to help enforce Human Rights and Fair Housing ordinances within Chapter 111 of the Alachua County Code.

Additionally, the Nature Centers Commission advises the Gainesville City Commission on programs, ordinances and the implementation of policies concerning the preservation of local natural systems.

The inclusion of UF students in local government allows for better representation at the city level, Stephens said.

“It’s crucial to have a student voice in those types of spaces, and begin trying to create solutions that will affect all Gainesville residents — not just the ones who may be from Gainesville,” they said.

Through their involvement, Stephens has aided with various initiatives. They helped get funding for environmental education programs in local public schools approved for the city’s 2022 fiscal year budget.

“The most rewarding part has been seeing the impact that you have on those within the community,” they said. “In government sometimes it is very discouraging to want to get involved because it’s hard to see that impact.”

Right-leaning organizations

UF has multiple student organizations, such as UF College Republicans, Young Americans for Freedom and the Network of Enlightened Women, for conservative students seeking to get involved in local politics and activism.

Outside of on-campus organizations, the Alachua County Republican Party, which collaborates with the Florida Republican Party and the Republican National Committee to support and campaign for Florida right-wing nominees, also welcomes UF student involvement.

While there is little-to-no student participation throughout the summer, a handful of UF

students regularly help with campaign tactics like phone banking, canvassing door to door and multimedia efforts throughout the fall and spring semesters, said Alachua County Republican Party Chairman Tim Marden.

“Campaigns are additive,” he said. “The more coalitions that you can build and circles of influence that you can create, the better.”

Marden also holds socials and workshops at his home to engage with conservative UF students. For topics like gun rights, Marden has organized training workshops for students to properly learn how to use firearms in a secure, controlled environment.

Through his mentorship, Marden hopes to help motivate younger generations to mobilize and accomplish long-standing goals within the Republican party, he said.

“It’s an opportunity to socially pass the baton,” he said.

Read the rest online at alligator.org.

@amandasfriedman

Weekend in the Swamp: An itinerary for new and returning gators

WHERE THE AVENUE WOULD TAKE YOU AROUND GAINESVILLE

Students coming to the swamp for Summer B classes are preparing for the course load that awaits them. To avoid getting bogged down, the Avenue created a weekend itinerary for students looking to balance academics with back-to-school fun.

8 a.m. — Ichetucknee Springs

Beginning your day at dawn gives you some advantages. First, it gets students in the habit of waking up early, a practice surely lost to groggy mornings in the all-too-brief summer breaks. Additionally, early risers get to take advantage of the crystal-clear waters at Ichetucknee Springs State Park.

Under the Spanish moss near US27, in Fort White, Florida, shaded hammocks and wetlands house a 6-mile-long river. Softshell turtles and river snails paddle through water below.

Visitors can come and ride down the several lazy rivers and springs the park has to offer. Admission to the park is $6 per vehicle and tubing is free provided you bring your own tube. Otherwise, tubes can be rented at the entrance starting at $7.

Brielle Hazan, a 21-year-old UF biology senior, recommends the springs to students.

“It’s a great way to take a break from studying and schoolwork,” Hazan said.

She advises visitors to pack light.

“You’re not really allowed to bring anything with you unless it’s reusable,” she said. “You kinda just have to detach from everything and appreciate the nature.”

Spend a couple of lazy hours floating through the springs and bask in the marsh like one of the many local lizards.

Treat yourself, you deserve it!

11 a.m. — Kanapaha Botanical Gardens / Loblolly Woods

Nature Park

After soaking in the springs for a couple of hours, continue your morning of local eco-tourism by visiting the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, located at Summer House,

4700 SW 58th Drive. The grounds, inspired by Lake Kanapaha as its namesake, cover 68 acres of land.

Wind past their bamboo groves and trot over a bridge boasting giant water lilies in the pond below to enter a plethora of themed gardens.

The price for admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children aged between 5 and 13.

For a free, price-friendly alternative, visit Loblolly Woods Nature Park. A smaller, more domestic option. It lacks the manicured ambition of Kanapaha, but the 159-acre forest serves as the perfect fix for returning college students strapped for cash and nature aficionados alike. Bring lots of bug spray and comfortable walking shoes to make the most of your excursion.

1 p.m. — Satchel’s Pizza

Surely, after an expedition full of springs and trails, one is bound to build up an appetite. Recover from the morning and satiate your hunger at Satchel’s Pizza.

The pizzeria stands as a Gainesville staple. Having opened its doors in March of 2003, Satchel’s has more than two decades of serving customers under its belt.

According to its website, patrons can “eat in a van, under a plane, or in a greenhouse.” Much of the restaurant’s atmosphere and ambiance comes from repurposed items reworked into unconventional furniture and other decorations. Come just in time to enjoy their Lunch Special for under $10.

2 p.m. — Rock’ n Glass

The best place to shop for rocks and crystals doubles as a small, holein-the-wall store on 4131 NW 13th St., dubbed Rock’ n Glass.

Illustrating their compact yet broad, color-coded selection of stones through words hardly does the joint justice. Truly, it’s something you must see for yourself. Come a couple of hours before closing and detail all the crystal shelves the store has to offer at your leisure.

Prices vary depending on the size and cut of the merchandise. The only limits are one’s wallet and restraint. Regardless of your budget, prices are modest and competitive, ensuring there’s always something for someone.

Juliana Camargo, a 22-year-old

Santa Fe music composition major, is a long-time customer and vouches for the store’s unique appeal.

“I took a small adventure to this new place and was greeted with the best crystal selection I have ever seen in a store,” Camargo said. “It felt like a beautiful secret.”

3 p.m. — Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History

Continuing with the day’s ecology theme, students can embrace the swamp’s own rainforest in the Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History. Located at 3215 Hull Road, the Museum is a short walk from other locations like the Harn Museum of Art. General admission to the museum is free, however, the Butterfly Rainforest exhibit is $14 for adults, $12.50 for Florida residents, seniors and students, and $7.50 for children ages 3 through 17.

4 p.m. — Harn Museum of Art

Gainesville’s best collection of domestic and international art is housed at the Harn Museum of Art.

Located in the heart of UF on 3259 Hull Road, the museum boasts a huge repertoire of art making its facility among the largest in the South. The museum was established in September of 1990, and has served Gainesville’s artistic community for decades.

Eric Segal, director of education and curator of academic programs, welcomes students to step into the museum and learn.

The Harn Museum of Art has been working with UF students for about a decade, and the program has a number of goals including refining skills in visual observation and critical thinking, Segal said.

Admission is free for all and students are always welcome to browse the halls filled with paintings and photographs. Exhibit spaces show off several multimedia art installments from ancient Chinese pottery pieces to large murals made of recycled and unconventional materials.

6 p.m. — Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Company

After joining the butterflies in their rainforest, head over to Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Company to secure supper.

Brace yourself for a higher price range and splurge on tapas-style Japanese cuisine. The restaurant is located downtown on 201 SE 2nd Ave., which makes it a short walk from other Gainesville hot spots.

Dress up fancy, eat fresh fish and strut around town for a while enjoying most of what downtown Gainesville has to offer.

8 p.m. — UF Bat Houses

As dusk settles across the swamp, thousands of bats begin to form an appetite. Head over to the UF Bat Houses, a wildlife refuge and the world’s largest occupied bat houses, on campus at Museum Road.

Get to the houses early to watch approximately 500,000 bats battle

against insects and locusts in an attempt to catch their dinner. Among the species found in the houses, the most common are the Brazilian freetailed bat, the southeastern bat and the evening bat.

10 p.m. — Arcade Bar

Top off a day of nature and adventure with a pint and some pinball. Conclude your night at the neon-painted game rooms of Arcade Bar on 6 E University Ave.

There is no cover, but you’ll want to save $5 for game tokens as each of the three floors of Arcade Bar have its own enticing offers.

Start on the ground level for an array of pinball machines and skeeball. The corners of the bar are cluttered with old-school arcade machines hosting Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat. Go with some friends to prove your gaming prowess and play a few rounds.

The second story opens up into a low-ceiling lounge overlooking the first floor. While there are more games scattered around, this level is ideal for resting and relaxing between foosball matches. Visit briefly to catch your breath and continue on upward.

Reaching the third and final floor, the Arcade Bar opens up into a large dance floor. Join the dancers and pulse along to the contemporary pop beats and rock oldies from before the ‘90s. Cool off at the bar and go back for more fun afterward.

Midnight — Flaco’s Cuban Bakery

Come midnight, follow the ravenous migration of post-partygoers pouring out from the clubs and into the streets of 200 W University Ave. to the narrow dine-in that is Flaco’s Cuban Bakery.

The quick service is outmatched only by the delicious food. The cheesy, greasy pastries are essential for UF students longing for a Latin taste.

Grab an arepa for less than $10 or a prepped pastry for less than $4. If you crave to recharge more, grab a bowl or a sandwich for about $12.

With bellies full, you may begin sleepwalking home on raw, blistered feet to close your Gainesville odyssey. Absorb all the fun and experiences from the weekend as you mourn the incoming Monday morning. vsarmiento@alligator.org

Local organizations uplift the community as harmful LGBTQ legislation goes into effect

Florida for All sponsors Joyful Resistance event in Gainesville

Watermelon and melted snow cones dripped into sticky puddles on the sidewalk as people abandoned their treats to dance to DJ Mellow’s remixes of the latest pop hits. Children jumped to the beat in bouncy castles, ran through hazes of bubbles and threw footballs around the park.

The sizzle of grilled burgers and hotdogs overlapped conversations about tarot readings and local politics July 1 at Cora P. Roberson Park.

At first glance, it would seem like any regular summer block party — but it wasn’t. The event was both a protest and a resistance against the harmful legislation that went into effect July 1.

Florida for All aptly named the event Joyful Resistance. Its goal was to fight against the fear and hardships resulting from new legislation on abortion, education, concealed weapons and LGBTQ issues by providing a place where people can feel safe to have fun and be themselves.

With the help of local organizations like Florida Planned Parenthood, UF Graduate Assistants United, Gators for Gender Affirming Care and Sierra Club Florida Chapter, Florida For All brought the community together to celebrate one another.

Jaime Suarez Roy, a 25-year-old representative of Sierra Club, was glad to have an event to highlight the progress made to preserve freedom. But it’s not about conventional freedom, they said.

“This whole event is about celebrating freedom,” Roy said. “So, bodily autonomy, freedom to have clean water, clean air, freedom to learn about your history, freedom for folks to get the kinds of health care they

need, all that jazz.”

It’s easy to feel disheartened by the tense political environment, but it’s also important to see the positive side, they said.

Roy knows there is still a lot of work that needs to be done, but they try not to get lost in the negativity.

“It’s really important to step back and acknowledge the joy and resilience that our communities already have, and then work on that because it’s what gives us life,” they said.

Florida For All, a statewide organization dedicated to fighting for equity and inclusivity, created Gainesville’s Joyful Resistance, which was just one of six other events happening throughout Florida.

There were also events planned in Tallahassee, Tampa, Homestead, St. Petersburg, West Palm Beach and Jacksonville.

Nat Tucci, a 44-year-old Florida For All employee, believes the event was an opportunity to show there is still hope even when people feel defeated and alone, she said.

“We had so much pain and so much fear that we’re like, ‘We’ve got to focus on something else,’” she said.

The intention of Joyful Resistance was to focus on the happiness that comes from being in community.

“Our communities are joyful as f—,” Tucci said. “We are here. We are about love. We are about acceptance.”

Kai Christmas, a 26-year-old regional organizer with Planned Parenthood of South, East and North Florida, loves Florida despite the struggles of being queer and trans in the South, they said.

“Politically, things can be f—ed sometimes,” Christmas said. “But there’s so much beauty here and there’s so many incredible people fighting for our rights and the rest of the United States just doesn’t get to see that very often.

And it’s sad for them because we got some cool s— going on here.”

Joyful Resistance is the last event Christmas is attending as a representative of Planned Parenthood.

They will move to New York to work on sex education. Though they are excited to move north, they have mixed feelings about leaving at a time when Florida needs people to speak up for queer issues.

However, they still know Florida For All and other organizations will succeed without them.

“Joy is what will keep us moving forward,” they said. “If we get stuck in despair, it’s really easy to just stay there, but our joy and our creativity is what’s going to bring a better future.”

Another Florida lover, Rachel Harnett, is also glad to see people are still fighting back.

Harnett, a 35-year-old representative of Graduate Assistance United, grew up in Florida and has seen it change over the years.

“It really hurts me because this is a state that I love,” she said. “I think it’s amazing for its diversity and its weirdness and its eccentricities, but it seems like all of that is under attack.”

Like Christmas, Harnett is leaving Florida for a new job opportunity. In six months, she will be in Atlanta, but she hopes Gainesville and the rest of Florida remembers there is still a reason for joy.

“It’s really beautiful to see that the fight isn’t over,” Harnett said. “People are gonna keep fighting, and we’re gonna keep Florida as weird and as strange and as wonderful as it has been.”

The diversity of Florida is appreciated by people of all ages.

Elsa Ladendorf, an 11-year-old Gainesville resident, is glad to see the community

supporting each other, she said.

Ladendorf was born in Gainesville and attended Joyful Resistance with her mom. Apart from the food she ate, she loved seeing local businesses and artists at the event. Most of all, she was glad to see the LGBTQ community represented.

“I really like how there is a spot for a booth for pride supporters because I have a lot of friends that are part of pride, and I’m really happy that it’s out here,” she said.

As people of all ages, colors, sizes and backgrounds gathered in joyful resistance, they demonstrated the simple ideal that hope is the enemy of fear. Gainesville continues to celebrate that hope.

@aubreyyrosee. abocalan@alligator.org

The Avenue Roundtable: What to do the first week back

CELEBRATE THE START OF SUMMER B WITH OUR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR WEEK ONE

Alligator Staff Report

If your summer classes already have you stressed out, take a look at The Avenue’s list of fun things to do this week. Whether you want something lively or relaxed, we’ve got you covered.

Drawing Out Summer

Aubrey Bocalan

Are you looking for something creative and laid back? Figure on Diversity, a local art organization dedicated to promoting diversity, is hosting a figure drawing workshop called Drawing Out Summer.

Participants can learn how to draw nude models live. All experience levels are welcome, even beginners.

Francis Espiritu, a 21-year-old UF digital arts and sciences senior, participated in the first Drawing Out Summer session, and it was his first time attending an event by Figure on Diversity.

“Despite it being my first time, I felt very comfortable,” he said. “The vibe and the environment is very welcoming.”

He understands it can be intimidating being surrounded by artists who may be more skilled or experienced, especially in a place where you may be drawing a nude model. But Drawing Out Summer was a very mature environment, he said.

“Even if you’re not an artist, there’s a value in it and there’s appeal in it because everyone is so nice,” he said.

This workshop series meets every first and third Monday of the month until September. The sessions are from 6 to 9 p.m.

On the first Monday, they meet at 109 SE 4th Ave. at House Of Waking Life. On third Mondays, they meet at Curia on the Drag at 2029 NW 6th St.

There is a sliding scale admissions price, and participants can pay what they feel comfortable with.

The Swamp’s Hot Dog Eating Contest

What better way to celebrate the Fourth of July than helping reach America’s annual gluttonous consumption of 20 billion hotdogs?

If you’re a frankfurter fanatic, this is your time to shine.

Pass by The Swamp Restaurant, located at 1104 SW 2nd Ave., at 4 p.m. for the chance to win a $250 first place prize. Whoever eats

the most hot dogs in less than 10 minutes wins, with second and third place prizes following. Students can’t wait to watch their friends participate in this hysterical tradition.

Emily Klingenberg, a 21-year-old UF public relations senior can’t wait for the event, she said.

“I haven’t been to Swamp since the spring so I’m excited to stop by and visit,” Klingenberg said. She and many other students are just returning for Ssummer B and are looking forward to local events throughout the summer.

There will be drink specials running all day, so be sure to cool off with a Red, White and Boom Martini.

Outreach Thrift Store

Valentina Sarmiento

A new wardrobe for the hottest semester doesn’t have to be expensive. New and returning students do their back-to-school shopping in a sustainable style at the Outreach Thrift Store located at 2430 NW 6th St. Outreach Thrift Store poses

an enticing solution for returning summer students’ back-to-school shopping needs.

At one of Gainesville’s longest standing thrift stores, students can shop for affordable and sustainable alternatives to clothing and other fun, kitschy knick-knacks to stock up their dorms.

Leah Janigian, a 22-year-old Santa Fe College art senior, frequents Outreach and is constantly on the hunt for additions to her dorm and wardrobe.

“Outreach is stocked with so much great stuff,” Janigian said. “It’s unique from the other thrifts because it’s cheaper and great quality.”

As the youngest of five siblings, Janigian is no stranger to secondhand attire. Thrifting is one of her favorite past times, she said.

“You should see my apartment,” she adds. “I’ve brought so much from Outreach home.”

Clothing items range within a couple of dollars of each other, the most expensive merchandise capping at under $10 on average.

Longtime customers and local thrift hounds alike patron Outreach for their modest prices and attentive staff.

abocalan@alligator.org lulrich@alligator.org vsarmiento@alligator.org

High Springs: A splash of small-town community charm

Local town offers exciting opportunities for students

Every year, hundreds of local college students flock to Ginnie Springs as soon as it gets warm enough to take a dip. The blue water, wildlife and lack of cell service make up the perfect getaway. It’s practically a rite of passage to buy a tube from Five Below and spend 30 minutes blowing it up before jumping in the water.

After enjoying the springs, many students head home — back to reality.

What most students miss is the small town located just six miles from the nature spot: High Springs, Florida.

With a population of about 6,500 people, High Springs is a small, tight-knit community. The town has a rich history and plenty of activities despite its small size.

Beginning as a phosphate mining town in the 1830s, High Springs was originally called Santaffey, a misspelling of the adjacent Santa Fe River. It was established in 1884 as a railroad town, and it was the only town in the area for decades, said Chamber of Commerce President Sharon Decker.

The railroads were in use until 2005, but now the area is largely agricultural, Decker said.

High Springs has kept its old-fashioned feel alive with small, locally-owned businesses supported by the community.

From art supply stores and antique shops to ‘50s-themed ice cream shops, High Springs’ town center is packed with high-quality businesses.

Lanza Gallery & Art Supplies is the perfect stop for any student. Shop owner Tina Corbett helps visiting students as much as she can, provides valuable insights for the best materials and gives student discounts.

Corbett involves local artists in her business and supports other local art teachers.

“If I ever need a professional art teacher, and oil, acrylic watercolor, or even graphic arts, I will invite them to my store to teach a workshop,” Corbett said.

Corbett is also part of a local “plein air” group, which is a method of painting where people paint on location together. Although there are regular members who attend, the group always welcomes new members.

Her store is located in the town center and is next door to a handmade goods store called Unique Notions, which sells the goods of many younger creators who Corbett has gotten to know.

High Springs has several other stores with different interesting finds.

The Bird Nest is a local antique store and market that combines new and old. April Goodman, the store’s owner, opened the shop in 2017.

On any typical day, locals and tourists from all around the world go to the store for

interesting finds. Goodman is excited to meet whoever walks through the door. She’s had customers from as far as Australia, she said.

Goodman’s mother owned an antique store, so she wanted to take the same path. She knew it was the place for her after she opened her business in High Springs.

Originally from Georgia, she moved back home for 14 months to be closer to her daughter but quickly realized she missed the community in High Springs.

“They’re like extended family,” Goodman said.

Tourists immediately feel a strong sense of community as soon as they walk into any of the stores, Goodman said.

Goodman recently saw visitors from the Florida Keys, and they were enchanted by how kind everybody was. Now, they’re considering buying a home in High Springs, Goodman said.

Decker felt the same after she moved to High Springs three years ago.

Decker moved to High Springs and became chamber president because she was passionate about popularizing the small town. She fell in love with the atmosphere, but the people drew her in most, she said.

“When you go in their shops, they make you feel like you’re at home,” Decker said. “You never meet a stranger here.”

Since she moved to High Springs, she has watched the town grow, but it hasn’t lost its sense of home. Instead of new development,

the town is dedicated to restoration to keep its history, Decker said.

The fusion of old and new rings true for the town as a whole. While the town has gained popularity, the people have the same kindness about them that they always have.

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UF brinda recursos para nuevos estudiantes internacionales

ORIENTACIÓN PARA ESTUDIANTES INTERNACIONALES INCLUYE OPORTUNIDADES DE INVESTIGACIÓN, TUTORÍA Y ASESORAMIENTO

Annika Gonzalez, una estudiante de finanzas de origen panameño, planea asistir a la UF en el semestre de Otoño. Ella recuerda las primeras etapas de su aplicación a la universidad siendo difíciles.

“El proceso puede ser tedioso”, dijo.

La estudiante de 18 años de edad se comprometió oficialmente con la UF después de visitar el campus y resolver sus complicaciones clericales. Sin embargo, todavía reconoce las diferencias entre las aplicaciones nacionales e internacionales.

Los estudiantes comenzando la transición a la universidad pueden enfrentarse a varios desafíos. Ellos pueden encontrarse con barreras más complicadas que los estudiantes estadounidenses. Con alrededor de 6000 estudiantes internacionales asistiendo a la UF, la universidad les brinda recursos para que se familiaricen con las diferencias culturales dentro de la educación.

Hélène Huet, bibliotecaria de estudios europeos de la UF, alienta a los estudiantes internacionales a visitar las varias bibliotecas para obtener orientación académica.

La guía de bibliotecas para estudiantes internacionales provee información sobre la estructura y la navegación de las bibliotecas de los EE.UU., así como también herramientas de habilidades lingüísticas y recursos comunitarios, dijo Huet.

Las bibliotecas también organizan eventos como un festival internacional de cine durante la Semana de la Educación Internacional en

noviembre, donde se alienta que los estudiantes extranjeros participen, dijo Huet.

Lisa Campbell, la bibliotecaria de instrucción y divulgación de Library West, incentiva a que los estudiantes internacionales consulten los materiales en idiomas extranjeros de las bibliotecas que se encuentran en colecciones físicas y digitales.

Library West y la Biblioteca de Artes y Arquitectura también tienen PocketTalk, un dispositivo de traducción portátil que ofrece traducción de voz bidireccional para 82 idiomas, incluidos dialectos y jerga. Los dispositivos también brindan traducción visual para 55

idiomas a través de cámaras para escritura a mano, texto mecanografiado y traducción de señales.

“Al conectar el dispositivo al Wi-Fi del campus, los profesores y los estudiantes pueden traducir fácilmente libros de texto y recursos de la biblioteca en idiomas del mundo, conversar cómodamente en sus propios idiomas y ayudar a otros a aprender y comunicarse”, dijo Huet.

El Centro de Asesoramiento y Bienestar de la UF cuenta con el Grupo de Foco Internacional Gator, un equipo de proveedores de servicios del campus equipados para ayudar a los estudiantes internacionales. Los recursos ofre-

cidos varían desde consultas y talleres hasta la identificación de necesidades y desafíos específicos para estudiantes internacionales.

“Espero poder obtener la ayuda que necesito allí”, dijo González.

El sitio web del Centro Internacional de la UF tiene enlaces a recursos adicionales como el Centro de Conexiones Profesionales, organizaciones estudiantiles, investigación de pregrado, tutoría y más.

@nicolebeltg nbeltran@alligator.org

UF provides resources for incoming international students

GUIDANCE FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS INCLUDES RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES, TUTORING AND COUNSELING

Annika Gonzalez, an 18-yearold UF international finance freshman from Panama, plans on moving to Gainesville in August. As a college applicant, she recalls struggling with getting in contact with university registrar during the initial stages of her application.

“The process is definitely very tedious,” she said.

Gonzalez officially committed to UF after she visited campus and resolved clerical difficulties that come from relocating.

There are many differences between national and international applications, she said. There are less ways to get in contact as an international student.

The university provides its about 6,000 international students with resources to aid their enrollment and familiarize themselves with any cultural differences within education.

Hélène Huet, UF’s European studies librarian, encourages international students to turn to the library for scholarly guidance.

The Smathers Libraries’ guide

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for international students provides information on the structure and navigation of U.S. libraries, as well as language skill tools and community resources, Huet wrote in an email.

The libraries also host events like an international movie festival, particularly during International Education Week in November, where foreign students are encouraged to participate, Huet wrote.

Lisa Campbell, Library West’s instruction and outreach librarian, pushes for international students to check out the libraries’ foreign language materials that are carried in physical and digital collections.

Football gameday guide

Library West and the Fine Arts and Architecture Library also carry PocketTalk, a handheld translation device that offers two-way voice translation for 82 languages including localized dialects and slang. The devices also provide visual translation for 55 languages through cameras for handwriting, typed text and sign translation.

“By connecting the device to campus Wi-Fi, faculty and students can easily translate world language textbooks and library resources, comfortably converse in their own languages and help others learn and communicate,” Huet wrote.

The UF Counseling and Well -

A guide for how to tackle Saturdays in the swamp. Read more on pg. 15.

ness Center has the Gator International Focus Team, a team of campus service providers equipped to assist international students. Resources offered vary from consultation and workshops to identifying needs and challenges specific to international students.

“I really do hope that I will be able to get any help that I need when I’m there,” Gonzalez said.

UF International Center website provides links to additional resources, including the Career Connections Center, student organizations, undergraduate research and tutoring.

@nicolebeltg nbeltran@alligator.org

Síganos para actualizaciones

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BASEBALL

Florida baseball remains optimistic after College World Series loss

THE GATORS FELL ONE GAME SHORT OF THE NATIONAL TITLE JUNE 26

Purple and gold confetti trickled down from the night sky at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha, Nebraska.

Florida baseball players leaned over the dugout fence expressionless, unable to look away as Louisiana State

SOFTBALL

players stormed the field to embrace each other in celebration.

The jubilant smiles, tight hugs and championship hardware the Gators dreamt about all year suddenly transformed into a nightmare as they watched another team fulfill their dream.

The LSU Tigers defeated the Florida Gators 18-4 in the College World Series finale June 26. The Gators’ talent-filled roster fell just short when they met arguably the most able

lineup in the nation.

“I don’t know,” UF senior catcher BT Riopelle said. “It just wasn’t really our day.”

Game three got off to a hopeful start.

Florida secured a pair of runs in the first inning when junior outfielder Wyatt Langford sent a ball soaring over the outfield wall and into a sea of fans for a two-run home run.

The lights shined too bright for UF two-way player Jac Caglianone, however. The lefty started the matchup strong before an early collapse. His inability to command the strike zone plated six runs for the Tigers in the second inning. LSU sealed Florida’s fate as the Tigers continued to tack on an outpour of runs.

Tigers freshman right-handed utility player Gavin Guidry pitched the final six outs of the contest and struck out Gators junior infielder Colby Halter to clinch the national championship.

The Tigers stormed the field, and Florida players returned to the locker room one last time.

“It’s a hard pill to swallow right now,” UF head coach Kevin O’Sullivan said.

The second-place finish can be pointed back toward the insufficiencies among Florida’s starting pitchers. Starters Hurston Waldrep, Brandon Sproat and Caglianone combined for just 7.2 innings pitched in the championship round.

The insufficient performance was a complete turnaround for the rotation that threw a 2.17 earned run average against lineups all throughout the postseason.

“There were a lot of things that

factor into it,” O’Sullivan said. “But I just think we didn’t command the ball as well as we should have.”

Though the Gators’ 2023 season will forever be remembered as the year they finished runners-up, to define it by one loss would be a complete disregard for the many accomplishments of its players throughout the season.

The Gators had a program-record 54 wins, hit the most home runs in program history and developed several high-round MLB Draft talents.

Waldrep and Sproat combined for 100 strikeouts each — the ninth duo to do so in Gators’ history — and Waldrep finished one strikeout shy of tying the single-season program record.

Players like Caglianone and junior shortstop Josh Rivera blossomed into stars. Rivera showed drastic improvements at the plate and impressive flashes of leather. After forgoing a pro contract and returning to UF for 2023, he's expected to hear his name called at the 2023 MLB Draft.

Caglianone, on the other hand, put his name on the map with his ability to play from both sides of the field. His 33 home runs broke the BBCOR-era home run set by Texas’ Ivan Melendez in 2021.

That, paired with his dominance on the mound, drew him comparisons to MLB All-Star Shohei Ohtani.

The word ‘dominance’ could easily define the Florida team that reached the College World Series for the first time since 2018. Though, resilience and tenacity have played just as much a role in the Gators’ historic season.

Nearly two dozen of Florida’s vic-

tories were delivered in come-frombehind fashion.

Florida began its College World Series run with a narrow walk-off victory against the Virginia Cavaliers. The Gators entered the ninth inning down a pair, but after two solo home runs from Langford and redshirt sophomore Ty Evans, Florida tied it. Freshman designated hitter Luke Heyman delivered the final score and walked off the contest with a sacrifice fly to center field.

The Gators would have never even made it to the College World Series if it weren’t for clutch performances from the not-so-big names in the NCAA Regional Round.

Florida needed to win threestraight elimination games to advance to the NCAA Super Regionals round after they fell to the Texas Tech Red Raiders in their second game of regionals. Waldrep, sophomore Ryan Slater and freshman Cade Fisher threw three of the season’s most dominant pitching performances and secured the needed victories and advanced UF to the Super Regional round.

The Gators’ gritty and resilient wins, in their eyes, were a testament to the work they’d done to restore the program.

“When I first got here, the program wasn’t talked about very highly,” Riopelle said. “This program is back to where it needs to be, not only competing for championships but it’s made up of great people.”

Florida baseball won’t play its next game until the 2024 NCAA baseball season begins.

@lukeadrag ladragna@alligator.org

Elizabeth Hightower continues softball journey as a pro

HIGHTOWER SIGNED WITH THE ATHLETES UNLIMITED LEAGUE JUNE 2

Former Florida softball right-handed pitcher Elizabeth Hightower departs Gators softball reminiscent of those who helped guide her along her softball journey.

Hightower faced ups and downs before her time in Gainesville and throughout her career. In the end, she wasn’t ready for her journey to be over.

"The impact that people have made on me is just when it all ended, I wasn't really missing softball,” Hightower said. “I was just missing the people.”

She signed with Athletes Unlimited to play professional softball June 2. Hightower also chose to take on a coaching role as a graduate assistant at Florida Atlantic University.

The Florida ace ended her collegiate career with an earned run average of 2.46 and 427 strikeouts on the mound.

Hightower’s parents made sacrifices to help pursue her softball dream when she was younger.

Her father, James Hightower, served in the military. Her mother, Gretna Hightower, played a pivotal role in staying home to care for her.

"I deployed six times to the Middle East … I volunteered because softball was so expensive,” James Hightower said. "Her momma got her up every morning dressed for school, made her lunch, picked her up and took her to

pitching lessons."

Hightower pursued her dream in high school and worked hard to become a high-level recruit, she said.

She was named Florida Class 2A Pitcher of the Year in her junior year in 2017 and also made the All-State First Team for the second time since her sophomore year in her high school career. Hightower ended her senior year of high school with a 1.38 ERA.

She faced tremendous adversity before she started her collegiate career at UF. Hightower came close to leaving the game of softball during her junior year of high school in 2017 after severe injuries. However, she chose not to give up on her dream.

SEE SOFTBALL, PAGE 16

Everything to know for your first Florida football game day What to bring, when to leave and where to go

Florida game days are truly one of a kind. The academically driven UF campus evolves into a rowdy, chaotic “Gators-tillI-die” environment.

Every campus corner builds up into an exciting and memorable experience for fans attending the game on Saturdays.

Freshmen will have the opportunity to take part in Gators game days for the first time this fall. Florida is set to play its home opener against the McNeese State Cowboys on Sept. 9 at 7:30 p.m. at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.

Before you can get in, ensure to pack a bag that meets stadium requirements. Bags must be clear and cannot exceed the 12 inches long, 6 inches wide and 12 inches deep size requirement. You can stuff your bag with essentials like your phone, wallet, keys and GatorID.

Student tickets are loaded onto student accounts at 9 a.m. the Friday before each home game. The tickets can be accessed through the Florida Gators app. You can save them to your Apple Wallet to avoid possible Wi-Fi connectivity issues prior to arriving at the gates.

One of the hardest parts about finding your seat is entering through the correct gate. On your ticket, you’ll find which one of the 18 gates is best to enter through to reach your designated seat.

Florida’s campus will be flooded with tailgating events hosted by student organizations across campus and in tents near the stadium. Most tailgates begin about three to four hours prior to kickoff.

Don’t worry about showing up to the

stadium more than an hour early if you’re skipping pregame festivities: Gates typically open 90 minutes before kickoff. It takes about 30 minutes just to enter the stadium. Finding your seat, grabbing food from concessions, pushing through

crowds — count another half hour until you’re comfortably seated awaiting the game’s start.

The entrances to gates 1 through 4 are located right off of Gale Lemerand Drive. On the north side of the stadium, you’ll find gates 6 through 9. Student gates 12 through 15 are on the east side of the stadium. Gates 16 through 18 land right off Stadium Road on the south side.

Once you’re seated, there are a few ingame traditions every Gator must participate in.

UF’s marching band performs a halftime show each game. The performance is a tribute to a new theme each week.

Two of the Gator nation’s most notable traditions roll around between the third and fourth quarters.

The first dates back to 1920. UF fans lock arms and collectively sing ‘We Are the Boys.’ In old-fashioned camaraderie, the Gators shout the lyrics as they sway left to right.

Right after, the Swamp transitions to sing Tom Petty’s sports anthem, “I Won’t Back Down.” This six-year-old tradition honors the late Gainesville native at every UF home game.

Your first Gator game day has the potential to be filled with iconic moments you’ll recall for years to come. It’s impossible to be fully prepared for the experience, but following a few of these tips can secure a more organized day.

@krishasang ksanghavi@alligator.org

UF intramural sports offer competition and relaxation for students

UF students flock to the Southwest Recreation Center to play pickup games and exercise throughout the school year.

Dozens of sports are played at UF’s largest student gym on campus, including basketball, soccer, beach volleyball and more.

Intramural sports are offered for students to participate in competition during the heart of the semester.

Summer B offers sports such as sand volleyball, basketball, indoor soccer and spike ball for anyone taking classes at UF.

Games take place after 5 p.m. from Monday through Thursday. There are typically four regular-season games for each sport. Teams are awarded a spot in the playoffs based on their regular season record.

The regular season consists of friendly and exciting competition, but can easily turn into a more serious and competitive environment once the playoffs begin.

Games become more intense and competitions grow fierce deeper into playoff runs.

Preston Serra, a 21-year-old finance senior, began playing intramural basketball during his freshman year. He referees intramural basketball games during the season, he said, and the atmospheres are exciting to be around.

“Once they get to playoffs, people take it pretty seriously,” he said. “It gets really competitive.

Serra said it's not like high school game atmospheres, but it's exciting when players bring their friends.

One of the main reasons intramurals are popular at UF is because the games take students’ minds off of the stresses of homework and exams, bringing back the passion sports brought to them as children. It also gives them

the opportunity to exercise after a long day of class.

The games aren’t state playoff games or NCAA Tournaments games, but they do get competitive. Students can exert as much energy on the court or field, no matter the situation.

Playing club sports at UF is also an option for students, but multiple practices per week and long weekend road trips are a part of the club sports season.

Intramural sports are a great way for everyone to meet

people and socialize at UF.

“It’s definitely flexible for everyone’s schedule,” Serra said. “It’s a good way to do stuff with your friends, keep everybody active. With everyone’s busy schedule, just being able to hang out a couple times per week, it’s definitely worth it.”

@B_Soly11 bsolomon@alligator.org

UF softball pitcher turns pro

Florida dream comes true

SOFTBALL, from pg. 11

SOFTBALL, from pg. 14

el, so he had an impact on my growth as a person and an athlete," Reagan Walsh said. Her growth as an athlete and as a Gator was made possible by the support of her parents and teammates, she said.

"She had meniscus, ACL and MCL, which is really difficult to come back from when you have the big three like that," James Hightower said. "A lot of people would have given up; it's a tough injury to come back from, especially as a pitcher."

She continued with her career despite the injury history and began her freshman season at Florida in 2019.

Walsh — who’s near the end of her second year — recognized she has support from her father, teammates and coaches, she said.

"The people at the University of Florida are great and have definitely impacted me as a player, but also as a person," Walsh said.

Hightower closed out her first year as a Gator on the Southeastern Conference All-Freshman Team. She became the first freshman since Kelly Barnhill to record a complete-game shutout after blanking the No. 17 Arkansas Razorbacks April 6.

Her fellow Gators have noticed her confidence in her ability to change positions on the field when things get tough.

ing the offseason with the help of head coach Tim Walton, Hightower said.

"We were able to sit down and have a tough conversation, and just say, early into my career, he was like what you're doing isn't going to cut it," Hightower said. "I owe a lot of my success to just that one conversation we had."

"I've seen her work and the growth she has had,” UF shortstop Skylar Wallace said. “I think she's known you're not going to be perfect at all times."

Hightower logged a 2.43 ERA, 133 strikeouts and a 17-9 record in 167 innings pitched during her final season at UF. She recorded her third complete-game shutout of her career against USF April 20.

Walsh has displayed confidence and an eagerness to win to the fans who come out to support her in Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium. She batted in a season-high six runs against Illinois State Feb. 11 and has a batting average of 0.353 this season.

Her control at bat and ability to find the right pitch is big in late innings, Wallace

“I got so much work in on defense that just made me a better pitcher all around, being able to cover my position and know all the rules,” Hightower said. “Even stuff that doesn't involve pitchers that we were

gan to consider the thought she may never play softball again, she said.

said.

Walsh was set to fill the hole left by the departure of former Florida graduate student infielder Hannah Adams as she entered her sophomore season.

Then, Athletes Unlimited called.

"I got the phone call about this Athletes Unlimited, and I was like, yes, I have to do it," Hightower said. "I'm just happy I get to keep going in my career and just keep being a pitcher and a softball player."

With the decision to play professional softball with Athletes Unlimited, Hightower must adjust to a new league and new rules.

“Working with Coach Walton every single day at practice, and him killing me at second base, I think, is all worth it,” Walsh said. “Hannah was such a great athlete; it's an awesome experience to be able to play second.”

The league records points for each individual player. The points are used to rank players each week. Every inning played is 10 points and a win is worth 50 points.

be hard on her so she will succeed, he said. "As a parent, I just want to love and support her — tell her it's all right,” he said. “Then on the other hand, you have to be competitive, and you have to push her to make sure she knows you have to do

He will forever support his daughter, he petitive level, he’s been hard on Reagan and understands the tough times she might

"It's a tough balance,” he said. “But I

Each out is four points added to a pitcher’s individual stats and 10 points are deducted for each run they allow.

Walsh and her father share a passion for sports and the competitiveness that comes with it. However, a line is drawn between his support for her as a father and giving her advice as a former athlete who understands the hardships of being an athlete, John Walsh said. He has to push her and

"One thing here is I have to move the ball a lot more; it's a bigger strike zone than college,” Hightower said. “It's way bigger, and that means hitters are going to