Opinion

Dreaming of a real spring break

By Julie Hirshan | gargoyle@flagler.edu

“I could really use a vacation!”

That’s a phrase heard quite often this time of year. Most students go through classes all winter, with the hope of spring vacation as their guiding light and something to look forward to.

But not students at Flagler College.

We work hard, and the only thing we have to show for it is a four-day weekend in March. That’s only two days of canceled classes, which is barely enough time to do anything.


Taking a different view on colors

Marketing studies show colors have powerful psychological effects

By Haley M. Walker | gargoyle@flagler.edu

Although it is one of the most basic things learned in Kindergarten, colors may have more meaning and symbolism than previously thought.

The psychology, emotions and connotations behind color are at the center of a number of significant studies. Different colors have been found to be in correlation with our true thoughts, sentiments and character.

In response to the knowledge of this fact, marketers have begun studying the science behind colors and the ways they can reach the consumer through them.


Knowing when to do a little ‘faking it’

By Kerry Takach | gargoyle@flagler.edu

Everyone fakes it.

What’s the harm in faking, you ask? It makes you a liar. However, not every fake is a bad one. Personally, dyed hair, whitened teeth and silicone do not particularly bother me.

Lying to parents is also acceptable when being caught in a compromising position — just don’t forget which lie you used. It is when certain types of insincerity cause undue harm to the victim that I have a bone to pick.


Internet videos are turning to violence

Filmed ‘Bumfights’ shows the inhumane side of viral video trends

By Haley M. Walker | gargoyle@flagler.edu

I know that the Internet is a great apparatus for information, research and communication. I know this because I use it for each of those things often.

However, I think that I have been incredibly naïve to the fact that this instrument that we use every day can be used as a medium to display some of the most barbaric and inhumane portraits of society today.

Recently, I have been made aware of something called “Bumfights” on the Web, and I feel like it was noteworthy and berserk enough to share with you.

Hopefully, you will be as disgusted as I am by this so called “trend.”


The things Henry Flagler never sees

By Danielle Marsh | dmarsh1@flagler.edu

Roommates. You either hit the jackpot, or wake up to find out someone has given you a new hair style. I have personally been blessed to have the roommate I do.

Despite the fact she is from the U.S. Virgin Islands, we have a lot in common, especially our taste for adventure and sick sense of humor.

We have had so many adventures together, there is no way of putting a number to it. Let’s just say in the past two years we have done so many insane things, even Britney would step back and gasp.


Catching up on procrastination

By Brittany Hackett | bhackett@flagler.edu

It’s no big secret that college students will procrastinate like it’s their job.

In my four years at Flagler, I have said, “I’ll do it later,” more times than can be counted, and I don’t think I’ve ever written a paper before the night before it was due (sorry to all my professors who thought I was a better student than that).

Some would say it’s apathy, others might call it laziness, but I argue there’s just too much else to do. My time cannot be wasted by being productive, that would just be too logical.

So, instead of working on assignments for class I’m going to help all of you out there be as un-productive as possible with my “Top Ten Ways to Procrastinate.” You know you’re psyched.


Joy riding in the back of a truck

By Jeffrey Mensch | gargoyle@flagler.edu

A mass e-mail was recently sent out to all students with a headline reading: “While it may seem an accepted practice here in Florida for passengers to ride in the bed of pickup trucks it is illegal.”

It turns out you can ride in the back of a pick-up as much as your heart desires.

There is no actual written law in Florida stating it is illegal.


Beware of scamming squatters

By Rosanna Gill | gargoyle@flagler.edu

Upon my arrival at Flagler College, there were so many things to see and experience. The college is full of history and the city is beautiful.

But somewhere between my acclimation to Flagler and my tours of St. Augustine, the other side of downtown showed itself — the darker, less ornate side of the city.

It lurks in darkened areas, sleeps on park benches and has no qualms with crossing the bounds of personal space.

My first encounter with this less attractive aspect of St. Augustine was one night after work when I still lived in the dorms.


The importance of positivity in life

By Haley M. Walker | gargoyle@flagler.edu

In the past year, since I began college, I have recognized the importance of being positive about your downfalls.

This year I have met many new people, been surprised, been intrigued, been let down, been frustrated and fallen on my face more times than I have ever had during the rest of my 18 years.

However, I have discovered something that is quite underrated in society today, but has helped me to see the world in a beautiful light. With this, I have learned to embrace these things that we all label as mistakes.

I first learned the importance of positivity through my uncle at a very early age. When he was 18 years old and had just graduated from high school, he dove off a diving board, broke his neck and was immediately paralyzed.


New parking rates make for bad present

By Marella Flynn| gargoyle@flagler.edu

Christmas wish list: rolls of quarters. Starting Dec. 10, prices for the beloved street parking meters around St. Augustine will sky rocket to $1.50 per hour.

This dramatic change seems to come from the city’s lack of profit from the parking garage on Castillo Drive.
There will be 12 new solar powered parking meters installed around the plaza downtown.

Essentially, what was once free will now cost an astounding $1.50 per hour.