REFLECTOR BEAUTY SPORTS FASHION HOW TO: GET LUCKY
Georgia Southern University’s MAGAZINE
VOL 85 ISSUE 3 SPRING 2012
AMBASSADORS OF GREEN
THE GREEN FEE FLASHBACK
THE REFLECTOR • 1
WHO GOT THE JOB?
WE ADD A LITTLE EXTRA TO YOUR ATTIRE.
Conviently located near Walgreens 2 • THE REFLECTOR
REFLECTOR
14
SPRING 2012 FLASHBACK
GSU Alumni Chris Butler of Campus Recreation and Intramurals remembers an evolution of wellness...................................................................6
WHAT’S HAPPENING Upcoming events and trips to study abroad............8
THE GREEN FEE
Should students pay to keep GSU green? Dustin Tilligkeit reports....................................................11
AMBASSADORS OF GREEN
These six campus super heros are raising the bar on sustainability..........................................................14
6
SPORTS
Baseball Head Coach Rodney Hennon talks players to watch with Colin Ritsick...................................18
BEAUTY
Shauntell Hall gives tips for a green makeover to any beauty routine........................................................19
FASHION
A look at regional brands, local boutiques, and the
landscape that respresents Southern style..............20
MUSIC
20
18
Brandon Anderson and Gary Barton of WVGS 91.9 The Buzz offer their views on Goldfrapp’s and Of Montreal’s latest albums..............................................22
FILM
Ayana Moore reviews Denzel Washington’s latest blockbuster, Safe House......................................................22 Gracie Kessenich presents side-by-side reviews of the American film version of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo and the book that started it all.........................23
HOW TO: Get Lucky
In the spirit of St. Patty’s Day, Matt D La Rotta asked local bar owners and employees for tips......................24
OFFICE HOURS
GSU writing and linguistics professor Eric Nelson’s office space is dedicated to poetry, calligraphy, and old friends.....................................................................25
REFLECTIONS
25
Before graduation in May, Alton Standifer reflects on his involvement as a leader at GSU.............................26
OVERHEARD
The oddest things heard on campus, sent in by readers..........................................................................27 THE REFLECTOR • 3
NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
In our last issue, we claimed 2012 would be a time of transition for Georgia Southern University. While we posed a few questions about the future of our campus, there was one aspect of change we forgot to mention the movement to be more environmentally conscience. This global initiative to save the planet is nothing new, however it perhaps has never been as relevant to Georgia Southern as it in now. This initative is truly becoming a part of the campus culture, and is a topic so broad it deserved an issue of its’ own. Last year, the Princeton Review named Georgia Southern one of the nation’s top 311 eco-friendly campuses. Once we began to do a little digging on the subject, it was easy to see why. From student organizations to museum exhibits and even a proposed
• • • • •
“Green Fee” - the list goes on and on. For an overview all the different aspects, check out the infographic on page 12. There are many individuals who have paved the way for this ranking over the years. Chris Butler discusses some of that evolution in this issue’s “Flashback” on page 6. Next, we feature six “Ambassadors of Green” on page 14 who are taking a handson approach to continuing that evolution. None of these individuals claimed to be perfect beacons of sustainability (although we think Dr. Lissa Leege comes pretty close). Instead each is worth noting because of the widespread ripple effect of their actions, big or small. My hope is that our readers also may make a change in their daily actions to
10 Different Flavors Available Daily! Over 55 Toppings to Choose From! Happy Hour : Mon-Thurs (5pm-7pm) Mon & Thurs : Double Punch Card Days! Come Try our New Delicious Fresh Fruit Smoothies!
721 South Main St. #9 Statesboro, GA Located in quiznos Shopping Centre 4 • THE REFLECTOR Contact # 912-681-2547
live more sustainably. When creating this issue, our Reflector staff certainly has been inspired to do so, and what better time to do so then this spring? The calendar on page 8 lists just some of the outdoor events to enjoy as this semester comes to a close. Since y’all did so well with my request in the last issue, I’m going to add two more. First, get outside this spring and enjoy the warm Statesboro sunshine. Go cheer on the baseball team (after you read the story on page 18, of course)! Second, unless you plan to keep this magazine forever, please recycle it after reading; not just because the Reflector obviously isn’t garbage, but because our landfills are full enough.
COLLEEN MCNALLY
cm04626@georgiasouthern.edu
1oz FREE * * Valid through 8/31/2012. Cannot be combined with any other discounts. Hours:
Mon-Thurs:11am-10pm Fri-Sat : 11am - 11PM Sun : 12pm - 10PM
Join on Facebook to learn more about specials @ Yo Bliss
REFLECTOR The Southern Reflector is published three times a year by Georgia Southern University students. The office is located at 2013 in The Williams Student Center.
MAGAZINE EDITOR IN CHIEF Grace Kessenich BUSINESS MANAGER Holly Hillhouse PRODUCTION MANAGER Mallory McLendon
WE SERVICE ALL MAKES AND MODELS!
STAFF
REFLECTOR EDITOR: Colleen McNally REFLECTOR DEPUTY EDITOR: Coleen Cureau PHOTO EDITOR: Lindsey Hartmann PHOTOGRAPHERS: Jessica Stanfield, Rebecca Farris, Demario Cullars DESIGN EDITOR: Kelsey Paone DESIGNERS: Jose Gil, Akeem Hill CONTRIBUTORS: Chris Butler, Dustin Tilligkeit, Colin Ritsick, Shauntel Hall, Taniqua Russ, Molly McNally, Brandon Anderson, Gary Barton, Ayana Moore, Alton Standifer
Our experienced Body Shop can fix all of the “Dents & Dings” that your vehicle may have! We service all makes and models and accept all insurance claims, and will give you FREE ESTIMATE on your body & paint repair
SALES REPS: Vicki Tucker, Phillip Scroggin, Houston Mills, Porter Sadler, Chloe Douglas, Ken Colyer MARKETING MANAGER: Aria Gabol DISTRIBUTION MANAGER: Nick Garcia DISTRIBUTION ASSOCIATE: Corey Carnahan
We offer our own in town towing service that is FREE with a Student ID when we do the repairs on your vehicle
OFFICE OF STUDENT MEDIA
DIRECTOR: John L. Harvey ADMINISTRATIVE SECRETARY: Brenda H. Greene GA/BUSINESS: Zachary Damon GA/PRODUCTION: Julian Strayhorn II The Southern Reflector is copyrighted 2011 by Southern Reflector Magazine and Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Ga. It is printed by South Georgia Graphics, Claxton, Ga.
GSU STUDENTS - Show your ID and recieve 10% OFF any purchase in Parts and Service
The Southern Reflector is operated by GSU students who are members of Student Media, a Georgia Southern student-led organization operating through the Dean of Student Affairs Office and the Division of Student Affairs & Enrollment Management. The magazine is produced three times a year by GSU students for the Georgia Southern University community. Opinions expressed herein are those of the student writers and editors and DO NOT reflect those of the faculty, staff, administration of GSU, Student Media Advisory Board nor the University System of Georgia. Partial funding for this publication is provided by the GSU Activities Budget Committee. Advertisements fund the remaining costs. Advertising inquiries may be sent to Office of Student Media, PO Box 8001, or by calling the Business Office at 912-478-5418. Inquiries concerning content should be sent to Magazine EIC Grace Kessenich at 912-478-5305 or by emailing Reflector@georgiasouthern.edu. All students are allowed to have one free copy of this publication. Additional copies cost $1 each and are available at the Office of Student Media in the Williams Center. Unauthorized removal of additional copies from a distribution site will constitute theft under Georgia law, a misdemeanor offense punishable by a fine and/or jail time
Correction: To clarify, in the “FBS Future” article in the Winter 2012 issue, Athletic Director Sam Baker was not suggesting students should transfer schools but refered to the question of GSU Athletics changing conferences.
THE REFLECTOR • 5
FLASHBACK THEN AND NOW As told to Colleen McNally and Coleen Cureau
When I arrived in 2006, I was the web graduate assistant, which at the time was a brand new position. In fact, I was the first ever at CRI. In my assistantship, I was in charge of the CRI web site, which was a big step CHRIS BUTLER for CRI because prior to Assistant Director, Marketing that the department did and Communications CRI not have the means to update regularly. Back then the CRI website had over 300 pages. Currently, after all the growth CRI has experienced, we are still right at 300 pages. Keeping the site conciliated during big growth spurts, along with improving navigation, was the biggest challenge of the redesign we released prior to fall semester. Wow! I can barely remember what the website looked like when I first arrived at CRI. It was real dark with mustard colored backgrounds, this purple and a Nike Swoosh looking guy as a logo. It wasn’t as expansive then as it is now. These days we literally put everything on it. If CRI is offering it, it’s on there somewhere. Back then, program directors were amazed if they could get something changed within a week. Now we change the site multiple times a day. I’m really proud of the site professionally because it has allowed CRI to cut a lot of our printing down. If you walk through campus, you won’t see it plastered with CRI flyers. We took our mobile site live even before the university had a mobile site all in an effort to begin creating more digital marketing channels with our participants. The RAC expansion opened in November 2006, which was my first semester as a graduate assistant at CRI. What I remember most is how excited the students were. The old RAC was so cramped at 89,000 square feet, and then it went overnight to 215,000 square feet, which is a big jump. The student body was growing to a point where the old one was just not large enough. >>continued, FLASHBACK page 10 6 • THE REFLECTOR
The Recreation Activity Center before and after the 2006 renovations. Photos courtesy of Chris Butler THE REFLECTOR • 7
WHAT’S HAPPENING TUESDAY, MARCH 20
MONDAY, APRIL 15 - FRIDAY, APRIL 20
FRIDAY, MARCH 23 - SATURDAY, MARCH 24
THURSDAY, APRIL 19
No Impact Week 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Russell Union, Rotunda
Farmer’s Market 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Williams Center Plaza Statesboro Music Festival 5:00 p.m. Friday - 11 p.m. Saturday Downtown Statesboro
THURSDAY, APRIL 19
Wine, Moonlight, & Magnolias Benefit 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Botantical Gardens ticket required, ages 21 and older
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28
Sustainable Solutions: Technology and Lifestyle Choices for a Greener World (pictured above) Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday - Sunday 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Georgia Southern Museum tickets not required for students or members. The exhibit is currated by Dr. Lissa Leege & The Center For Sustainability. read more on page 14>>
Rudy Giulian presents “Principled Leadership: In the Face of Change and Crisis” 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. Hanner Fieldhouse, ticket required
FRIDAY, APRIL 20
TUESDAY, APRIL 3
Spring Concert - The Band Perry & The Fray 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Paulson Stadium ticket required
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4 Honors Day
MONDAY, APRIL 23
Farmer’s Market 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Williams Center Plaza
8:30 a.m. Nessmith Lane Continuing Education Building
TUESDAY, APRIL 10
Sustainability Seminar Speaker: Jeffery Hollender, founding CEO of Seventh Generation 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Performing Arts Center
Mr. GSU 7:00 - 10:00 p.m., Russell Union Ballroom Eagle ID required
TUESDAY, MAY 1
SATURDAY, APRIL 14
SATURDAY, MAY 5
Farmer’s Market 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Williams Center Plaza Community-Wide Yard Sale 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Parrish Football Center, Parking Lot
30th Annual ARTSFEST 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Sweetheart Circle
Statesboro South Mini-Storage/U-HAUL
Pizza by the Slice Cheese . . . . . . . . $2.00 Add $0.25 Per Topping
Pepperoni, Jalapenos, Bell Peppers, Black Olives, Banana Peppers, Broccoli, Fresh Mushrooms, Spinach, Artichoke, Sun Dried Tomatoes, Bacon, Tomatoes, Ham, Salami, Onions, Pineapple, Anchovies, Green Olives, Spicy Italian Sausage, Hamburger, Feta, Garlic, Extra Cheese
U-Haul Rentals
8 • THE REFLECTOR
912-681-9760
Sides
House or Greek Salad . . . $3.00 4 Garlic Knots with NYC Tomato Sauce . . . . . $2.00
Beverages
Soda and Sweet Tea. . . $2.00 Beer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2.50 Wine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4.00
Desserts Tiramisu Cheesecake. . . $4.00 Chocolate Mousse Pie. . .$4.00
Call: (912) 871-1100
Fair Rd.
...Providing Statesboro with quality and affordable storage and moving needs.
o de s e Vi h ou e ar W
1200 Brampton Ave. Market District (Next to Video Warehouse) For Delivery Call Boro Take-Out (912) 225-3608
301 By Pass
te with
hly ra t n o m ff 20% o of this ad! n mentio 9384 Hwy 301 South Statesboro, Ga
Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage . . $7.00 Spaghetti with Meat Sauce . . . . . $7.00
Toppings
Mini-Warehouses Moving Supplies
Italian Dishes
Whole Pizza Jumbo Cheese . . . . . . . . . . $13.00 Pizza With One Topping . . $14.00 Additional Toppings . . . . . . $0.50 Premium Toppings . . . . . . . . $0.75
Hospital
FEB. 14 - MAY 5
Earth Day (Sponsored by SAGE) 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Russell Union Rotunda
Brampton Ave.
Hours: Sun.-Wed. 11am-10pm Thurs.-Sat. 11am-Midnight
SUMMER STUDY ABROAD “Nervous but excited,” said Elizabeth Joyner while slowly spinning her cell phone on a granite kitchen counter. “I’ve traveled a lot before so it’s not that that makes me nervous, it’s like a ‘I can’t wait’ nervous. Joyner is going to London this summer through a Georgia Southern University summer study abroad program. Although a seasoned traveler this will be her first visit across the pond. With a little language barrier yet distinctive culture, London is one of the ideal travel destinations for Americans. Steeped in history as the birthplace for many modern ideologies, university students flock there in droves for a chance to learn in the same place as some of the
past’s greatest minds. This summer, London is offering a lot more for visitors than lectures on Stonhenge. “Yeah, the Summer Olympics are in London this year,” smirked Joyner. Thousands of visitors will be coming to support their nation’s team and mingle with people cheering for the compeiting sides. With this sudden burst of less familiar cultures coming together, students abroad will get a greater chance to master the skll of becoming a better global citizen. GSU forgein language professor and study abroad advisor, Danielle Smith said one of a student’s greatest assets is simply being exposed to different ways of life and learning to respect them. “By participating in
r y e t d n o B e C to 01
h3 out
S
Au lision ol
international exchange, that’s how you foster relationships with people. Its not always just about politics and economics but the humanizing aspect,” said Smith. Smith says students looking to become better global citizens need to be knowledgeable about other cultures and learn to respect them. Realizing there are more cultures out there besides their own fosters understanding, and being able to work well in a diverse setting looks great on a job application. “No matter what field you go into, it relies on something internationally. Whether you’re putting together a car whose parts were made internationally or you work for a company that does business
overseas, the skills learned from being abroad will help,” added Smith. Students interested in a study abroad program at Georgia Southern can go to Forest Drive Building, room 1316 to pick up some informational material or “blue sheets” as they are commonly known. The sheets include a summary of each destination a students might be curious about, with the dates, classes offered, and costs. “It’s a great way for students to give themselves a leg up after graduation and the memories you make stay with you for a lifetime,” said Smith. COLEEN CUREAU
In business for 16 years 10 % off service with an Eagle I.D.
C
Auto body collision repair Jett lube quick oil change
24 hour towing Auto sales
Mechanical/Auto repairs Wheel alignments
Life time warranty on all repairs Best prices in South Georgia
www.south301autobody.com
12229 Highway 301 South Statesboro, Ga. 30458
THE REFLECTOR • 9
(912) 871-5181
>>FLASHBACK, continued from pg 6
The LEED [Leadership in Energy and Environment Design] certification was interesting, especially with it being the first building on campus to be certified. There are small things that I don’t think our students realize, like how our air handlers work. They allow the RAC to use significantly less energy than a typical building this size would use. The retention ponds in front of the RAC allow for irrigation so that we don’t have to use much ground water. The paint’s non-toxic, the marble is all reclaimed...things like that, small details that you probably would never notice. From an environmental standpoint, it made it kind of a big deal. And it made a statement for the University. They were committed to being a environmental leader as a university, and I think the new Biology building will be LEED certified because [the RAC] set a new standard. There’s also the popularity of programs, like Living Green. We [CRI] have seen it increase every single year in participation. It’s fun to see the pictures students post on the CRI Facebook page; what they are doing that month to be more sustainable, and it’s fun to see how they get their friends involved in it, and make a little competition. We are more realistic in the fact that we know people aren’t going to sell their car, and walk or bike everywhere they want to go, but if they make small changes - basically make habits - they add up to a lot. That’s what CRI and the University Wellness Program want to do, make it part of the culture here at Georgia Southern. When I got to Georgia Southern, I was not a big recycler. Now we try not to throw anything away. It helps that my roommate is Matt McBride, one of the Southern 10 • THE REFLECTOR
A view of the RAC prior to renovations top right: Butler on a trip with Southern Adventures in 2009 middle left: The CRI logo from when Butler began his web graduate assistant position photos courtsey of Chris Butler
Adventure Directors. We take small steps such as using compact fluorescent bulbs, keeping our house at 68 in the winter and turning lights off. It all goes back to believing that small steps add up to a big difference. This is all part of the CRI culture of being green as an organization. Not to mention, you never want part of your undergrad staff to find out you don’t recycle at home. As far as the CRI students, it’s almost like a sin to drink out of water bottles that can’t be reused: that’s a big no-no
here. You’ll see a lot of Nalgene bottles. Those are the things that we are really proud of as an organization, which can become life long habits for the approximately 300 student employees here. Our training in January was almost entirely geared around sustainability. We try to revisit the topic about every other training so they know that it’s important. We really push them to live it in their personal lives. There wasn’t really just one huge step [towards sustainability], but if I could
sum it up it would be three things: (1) foundation of Southern Adventures program area, they really have a passion for sustainability and the great outdoors which permeated throughout the organization (2) The RAC expansion, as voted on by the students, and to make it LEED certified, and that really spurred a lot of our thoughts, and (3) the University Wellness program. The Center of Sustainability has obviously picked up the torch and ran with it from there.
G
THE
REEN FEE
Since 2008, the topic of charging students a fee to support green initiatives on campus has been discussed, debated, drafted, and drafted again by members of the Student Alliance for a Green Earth, Student Government Association, faculty and administration. Coinciding with numerous references in stories in The George-Anne, each development brings the fee closer to reality, but there’s still a long road ahead. The fee was originally meant to grant funding to environmentally conscious efforts on campus, such as the Center for Sustainability. Since the idea was born, it has grown to include a number of possible projects from retrofitting older buildings with more energy efficient technology to helping to fund construction of new buildings. As a result of these projects, the hope is that Georgia Southern University can save money in energy costs and will ultimately return the money to students in the form of scholarships and new campus projects. While the intention sounds beneficial, there are those who believe now is not the time to add more fees onto already burdened student accounts.
THE HISTORY
The fee was initially introduced in a poll conducted in the spring of 2008 by the Student Alliance for a Green Earth. Christina Belge, who served as a member of SAGE at the time, strongly supported the fee. With possible changes to the College of Science and Technology, there is concern that the Center could lose the stability it has now. “Student support was strong, but at the time administration support wasn’t,” said Belge. She later became the club’s President and reintroduced the fee as a resolution in SGA, hoping for more serious audience. After lengthy discussion, SGA motioned for a second poll to assess student opinions.
The result of the two polls determined that students are generally accepting of the concept. Others argue that only a portion of students were polled and that has led to concerns that student opinions were not accurately measured, or that the students who had been polled had not sufficiently considered the implications of a new fee. Alton Standifer, President of SGA, said in response, “I do want to protect the pockets of the students I represent.” Standifer also said that he was uncomfortable with the rush with which the most recent survey was collected. Despite reservations Standifer was behind the green fee, he said, “generating money for green student education is a good cause.” In March of 2011, SGA approved the fee and forward it to President Keel’s office. Currently, SGA and President Keel’s office are still discussing the future of the green fee, as well as its feasibility in the face of recent economic hardships and other potential fees that GSU may need to enact.
HOW IT WORKS
If approved, the fee will be collected with at the beginning of each semester, just like Technology or Student Activity fees. The gathered money would then go towards projects that fall into one of two categories - either physical or academic. In order to be cost efficient as well as energy efficient, two committees, one for each category, composed of students and staff would examine proposals and vote to determine who gets the funding they want. The physical projects are intended to improve the efficiency of GSU in a range of areas: possibly providing funding for new biodiesel buses, buying energy efficient appliances or solar panels to help produce power for university consumption. These physical projects would also generate savings in energy costs, and this revenue can continue the cycle of funding and growth. Academic projects include grants and student scholarships.
DIFFERING OPINIONS
While student opinion has been in favor of the fee according to the polls, faculty and administration opinion has been less conclusive. Initially, its necessity was questioned because at the time GSU would be one of the only universities in Georgia with this type of fee, which questioned it’s necessity. Now, this has changed. A number of universities implemented similar, including the University of Georgia and the Georgia Institue of Technology. Another concern is the level of strain on an average student’s budget. According to the polls, the majority of students are willing to pay the proposed extra $10. There is also a time element to the proposal. Belge also pointed out something eventually must be done to address the issue, not to mention how enacting a fee can garner positive attention for the University.
THE FUTURE
If the green fee all of the fine print is worked out and approved by President Keel’s office, the fee proposal will go to the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. Once there, a final vote will ultimately decide the fate of the fee. If approved, students are likely to see the ten dollars attached to student accounts as early as the fall of 2013. From there, the money raised could begin to help the university plan and work toward a more energy efficient and environmentally friendly university. Even without a fee, efforts are already under way to make GSU a greener campus, with the university seeking LEED certification of buildings, recycling programs, relamping projects and biodiesel buses. Having a green fee can help to fund these projects, and projects that have yet to arise, to give back to the environment as well as students. DUSTIN TILLIGKETT
THE REFLECTOR • 11
HOW
GEORGIA SOUTHERN REUSES, REDUCES & RECYCLES Information compiled by Lindsay Gaskins and Taylor Cooper
Motion controlled lighting and motion controlled bathroom equipment will be the standard in future buildings. Motion controlled toilets, urinals, faucets, and paper towel dispensers are all part of GSU’s shift to more environmentally friendly systems. Waterless urinals will replace the current type in new buildings while smarter HVAC systems will also be making an appearance. HVAC, a climate control system, will not serve vacant rooms. Students can look for these improved control systems in the new Biological Sciences Building.
GSU is attempting to discourage private vehicle use on campus, while incouraging the use of mass transit and bike rentals are growing. WeCar, the product of a partnership between GSU and Enterprise Rent-a-Car, supplys environmentally friendly cars to students for an annual or hourly fee. Bike rentals and repairs are handled by Campus Recreation and Intramurals. Southern Adventures also offers a tire tube replacement service and general tune ups.
LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environment Design. It consists of a grading/ point system which a building can receive points for each green feature it has (features can include energy efficient vehicles/parking outside the building as well). Georgia Southern University currently has one LEED certified building which is the RAC (and one on the way with the new biology building). The features that certify the RAC to be a leader in going green consists of: 1. Day lighting (abundance of natural lighting from windows) 2. Reused materials (recycled rubber tires in the flooring of the rock wall) 3. Green housekeeping (sustainable cleaning products) 4. Grooved flooring 5. Store water catching system (reused to water plants) 6. Highly reflective white roofs (reduce heating) Georgia Southern has 11 building that have white reflective roofs (Hanner Fieldhouse, Hollis Building, the Russell Union, the University Bookstore, Family Consumer Science Building, Carol Building, and the new Biological Sciences Building will have it).These roofs have reflective foam and it greatly reduces heating costs for each building. GSU’s goal is to try to get every building on campus to get up to LEED standard, if not LEED certified.
12 •THE THEREFLECTOR REFLECTOR
Not to be confused with the Biology Building, the Biological Sciences Building is currently under construction. The Biology Building was built at a time when the total population of GSU was 5,000. There is a need for a new building that can perform the same tasks as the Biology Building as well as the needs of modern day students and researchers. The building will have many environmentally friendly aspects. It is being built from the beginning with LEED standards and Georgia’s Green Peach Program, an energy efficiency rating system, in mind. The building will also be the first on campus to utilize photovoltaic solar panels to supply power to the climate control system.
GSU’s landscaping crew is very sensitive to the natural environment. Only local foliage that requires the least amount of water is planted. In newly developed areas, pine straw and flowers are incorporated instead of turf for decorative purposes. Landscaping has also created bioswales between Centennial Place and Watson Hall, and across the street next to the Student Health Center. Bioswales are natural filters used to remove silt and pollutants from runoff, like rainwater. Runoff from campus is filtered in the bioswales before reaching the river, keeping the Ogeechee clean. They also act as habitat for a variety of insects, reptiles, and amphibians.
Landrum Dining Center has mostly eliminated the use of disposable plates and utensils in efforts to reduce their amount of waste. Diners taking their food to-go can now use new compostable containers that will eventually break up in the soil. The Pickle Barrel, which recently opened beside Landrum, provides shoppers with fresh, organic produce in hopes to promote sustainability and waste reduction.
GSU architect Haroun Homayun is working to ensure that all new buildings are built better and to LEED standards. Among the things that constitute a better building include foam layers on roofs to reflect sunlight and improve insulation to keep buildings warm in the winter and cool in the summer, while also improving energy and water efficiency.
Recycled water is not the same as “grey water”. “Grey” refers to unprocessed water; where as recycled water has been treated. 70 percent of GSU’s campus is irrigated with recycled water from the city’s reservoir, which is cleaned at Statesboro’s treatment plant. During droughts, the government sets limits on the amount of water that can be used; recycled water is exempt from regulations. This means the playing fields GSU has put millions of dollars into won’t be in danger during a dry spell.
Recyclemania is a yearly competition consisting of over 600 colleges and universities around the nation competing to see which school can recycle the most in a nine-week period. Schools are judged in nine categories: four primary combined material categories, four targeted material categories and one new electronics category. This is Georgia Southern University’s rookie year competing but is currently leading in Georgia for paper and plastic recycling. The competition is all about raising recycling awareness and its winner gains bragging rights as the university most recycle-conscious. Many of the Recyclemania events are sponsored by organizations around campus trying to get as many people involved as possible. In efforts to keep students motivated, different activities are scheduled each week, from free give-a- ways at the Russell Union to a drawing for four meal cards accepted anywhere on campus.
Every first and third Tuesday beginning March 20-May 1, the William’s Center plaza hosts a farmers market, allowing farmers from all over the county the opportunity to sell produce on campus. The selection is entirely organic and reminds students they can be sustainable even with their choice of food.
THE THEREFLECTOR REFLECTOR• 13
THE QUEEN OF GREEN DR. LISSA LEEGE 14 • THE REFLECTOR
AMBASSADORS OF GREEN AND DR. LISSA LEEGE
Last year The Princeton Review named Georgia Southern University one of the top eco-friendly colleges in the country, thanks to many power players and the organizations they lead. From educational trips to reusable cups in campus eateries, these six people redefine sustainability with passion and innovation. When first meeting Lissa Leege, her smile, warm and disarming, and a shake of her hand, completely erases the rush of hustle and bustle of college life on the other side the double doors of the Biology Building. With calmness and Southern charm, it might be hard to believe the number of tasks Leege oversees as GSU’s environmental guru. To begin, Leege directs The Center of Sustainability along with a full teaching roster, and as of this April will add her newest brainchild, an organization to be called “Green Ambassadors” to the list. The five individuals featured on the next page could be candidates. “It’s been a dream of mine to have something like this happen for a while,” said Leege. The Green Ambassadors program is a way for students interested in promoting sustainability to have the opportunity to get involved. The members may potentially give educational presentations to other student organizations and freshman-year experience classes. “The time is right for sustainability and students are ready to serve.” The increase conservational consciousness in community is largely
due to all the work Leege does behind the scenes. There is the reusable water initiate, the push to get white roofs on campus buildings, the effort to bringing the Statesboro Farmer’s Market to campus, and her roles as advisor for the Student Alliance for a Green Earth, and Curator of the “Sustainabile Solutions” exhibit at the University’s museum just to name a few. This queen of green isn’t just about saving the environment. She also enjoys the benefits of saving money. The Reuse Water project, which kicked off last summer, saved up to $100,000. If GSU permanently picks up the white roof idea, which helps with building insulation in the winter and keeps temperatures down during hot southern summers, the school may save even more. The humble Leege acknowledged she couldn’t achieve this impressive list of accomplishments alone. She gives credits to all the volunteers -both student, faculty, and local - for the success of GSU’s green programs and looks forward to more in the future.
THE REFLECTOR • 15
JOSH WHITTINGTON
JENNIFER VELIE
CAMPUS CYCLES PROGRAM
SOUTHERN ADVENTURES
This guy fixes bikes. As the program assistant for Campus Cycles, the fifth year spanish major and geology minor helps run the service that allows students to rent a bike for $30 a semester with free repairs. When Whittington came to GSU, he regularly mountain biked with friends on weekends and even made a trail in a friend’s backyard. He didn’t know about the program or even how to fix bikes back then. Since he didn’t know about Campus Cycle at the time, he tried to take his bike to an off campus shop when his was damaged. He was told the repairs would be $300 so he decided to learn for himself. From there, he started fixing bikes for friends. Whittington became involved with Campus Cycle after attending a few trips with Southern Adventures and made friends with “the regulars”. He was able to fix a bike on a trip, and when a spot opened in 2009, he landed the job. Now Campus Cycle rents approximately 65 bikes, up from last semester’s 40 bikes. The bikes are all recycled, mostly collected by housing and public safety when left at Residence Halls over the summer. The program is continuously expanding usually adding five or six new bikes a semester. Whittington would rather take time for quality bikes,“I want to put out bikes that I would buy myself.” For this reason, the bikes rent out quickly and there are many repeat customers. The sustainability aspect came naturally. “The buses are great alternative transportation but they aren’t always the fastest and they are always full,” he said.“It’s not that difficult to be green. If you really look at it, it just makes sense. It’s easier for me to afford as a student.”
Velie came to GSU as a graduate assistant for Southern Adventures after studying at the University of Central Florida. This surfer and lover of the outdoors was first introduced to her passion for recreation as an undergrad. “I took a job at their climbing wall and didn’t want to do it. I was peer pressured by some friends I worked with, and fell in love with the sport and got hooked and just broadened my experiences since then,” she said. Now Velie, serving as the SA program director, helps with the Campus Cycle program and guides students on day, weekend, and spring break long camping trips. Whether backpacking, rock climbing, or kayaking, all the trips are conscientious of their environment. “We practice ‘Leave No Trace’ outdoor ethics,” she said. “A take only pictures, leave only footprints kind of deal. I think our trip participants get that engrained in their mind and hopefully practice that.” SA’s commitment to the environment is apparent in their office space as well. Parts of the countertops are made from crushed sunflower seeds and bamboo, a renewable resource, and bathroom floors are scrap tile, reused from another project. “As far as sustainability, I would say that GSU is a little bit ahead of the game,” she said. I wouldn’t say that we are the greenest, but I do think that it’s a very important piece to the administration. I think we are striving to be. I think that’s one of the goals of the University,” she said. Velie enjoys the green space on campus like Sweetheart Circle, but would like to see a more initiatives for carpooling and biker-friendly areas on campus as well as the surrounding areas of Statesboro.
16 • THE REFLECTOR
MATT CHAMBERS
ANNI RAINO
TIARA JOHNSON
STUDENTS IN FREE ENTERPRISE
STUDENT ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN EARTH
ALTERNATIVE BREAK BOARD & HEIFER INTERNATIONAL
This graduate student has been a driving force behind a project to bring reusable cups - bright green Tervas Tumblers to be exact into on campus dining locations. “Anybody who uses the cup can go to the 11 different establishments on campus and get a 93 cent refill, so with tax will be $1,” said Chambers. If reducing waste wasn’t enough, the proceeds of the $15 cups, or $11 for meal plan holders, will go towards the Hearts and Hands Clinic of Statesboro. As President of SIFE, an international orgnaization that unites students interested in, according to Chambers, a “better, more sustainable world through the positive power of business.” The idea started when the group was looking for projects and found a huge problem. “Plastic water bottles make up 11 percent of the market of the U.S. and 86 percent of all water bottles pretty much end up in landfills,” said Chambers. “We thought this was a great niche. We see students all over campus with different water bottles, and it pretty much snowballed into the idea that we can really, truly make a greater avenue and target a greater market through Eagle Dining Services.”
Born in Finland, one of the first things this head honcho of the Student Alliance for a Green Earth noticed about the States was the lack of recycling. Ever since working with her local high school’s Sierra Club, Anni Raino knew she wanted to continue her work in sustainability. Thankfully, during her freshmen year at Georgia Southern University, she found her calling in a group of passionate, environmentally conscious individuals at a SAGE meeting, where she’s been working ever since. Along with her leadership role in SAGE, Raino feeds her passion and charisma for the environment as a community leader for Keep Bulloch County Beautiful, a volunteerbased organization in Statesboro whose commitment is to “beautify” Bulloch County by educating residents and providing the tools and support to cut down on waste and litter. As more and more people become aware of the importance of conservation, Raino and the “sage-lettes” continue to host events like the annual Tom’s Barefoot Race and Earth Day celebration to keep the sustainability fires, using renewable fuels of course, burning in the consciousness of students.
“Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime,” is the mantra of Heifer International, an organization devoted to sustainable food supplies. Junior biology/pre-med major Tiara Johnson has taken this mantra to heart while she led a group of students to Arkansas to volunteer with Heifer over this past spring break. A five-time veteran of Alternative Spring Break Trips, Johnson, enjoys spending her breaks a little differently than the average college student. She hopes this trip will take her out of her comfort zone, especially with activities like milking a goat. Also, during one night of the trip, volunteers go to a “simulation village” consisting of some of the individuals the Heifer organization donates to. Volunteers are given uncooked food and as a group, have to work together to survive the night. Experiences like these really make you appreciate what you have, she said. “There are people who have live this way. We only do it for a night. We get to go back to our warm beds eventually.” Beyond the the unique experience, Johnson focuses on the educational aspect of understanding the effect of poverty and hunger on societies.
THE REFLECTOR • 17
REFLECTOR SPORTS
New guns defend Southern’s title Following a Southern Conference Championship winning season, the Eagles will either live or die by its new faces in 2012. Georgia Southern was undoubtedly the best team in the SoCon last year. With a .289 overall batting average and five hitters batting over .300, it was the offense of Head Coach Rodney Hennon’s team that made the most lasting mark in 2011. But this is a new season, and GSU will have to replicate similar proficiency with some different playersboth at the plate and on the mound. Two of those five hitters batting over .300 were lost to graduation, in addition to the number one starting pitcher, Andy Moye, and the starting closer, Matt Murray. To repeat, or even improve upon last year’s accomplishments, then these young guns will have to perform. The anchors for the current team are a very talented group of veteran players: Eric Phillips, Michael Burruss, Victor Roache and Chris Beck, all selected as captains by their team mates. All returning starters, this season’s team captains will be the rock for the Eagles. “Those guys have done an outstanding job…I really like the chemistry of this team, when we come down here to practice these guys are really focused on getting better,” Hennon said. In an interview with Hennon, he said he ‘doesn’t ever make predictions’ but discussed five players that he thinks will have the most opportunity to impact this team.
24
scooter williams junior - outfield
Starting only 29 games last season due to an early year injury, Williams will take over the starting role in center field from the get go. “A guy like Scooter Williams, if he can stay healthy, I certainly think he can play a big role for this team,” Hennon said of Williams. The only player who started over 20 games to post a perfect fielding percentage, he will be the defensive anchor in the outfield for the Eagles. Williams finished the 2011 season with a .277 batting average and was a perfect nine-for-nine for stolen bases. 18 • THE REFLECTOR
DEMARIO CULLARS
COLIN RITSICK chats with head coach RODNEY HENNON about players to watch before the start of the spring season.
2
stryker brown sophomore – infield “A guy like Stryker Brown that was a part time player last year that has improved and done a good job handling the bat, has an opportunity to see more time and at bats,” Hennon said. Brown may be this season’s wildcard for the Eagles. He only started seven games last year, but as the Eagles will need some holes filled for the 2012 season, Brown will see a much more extended role. Ending the season with a .250 average and a .385 on-base percentage, GSU can expect to see more offensive production from Brown for the 2012 season.
11 23
clint clark freshman – catcher chase griffin freshman – catcher
“Chase Griffin and Clint Clark, both of those guys are going to be catching pretty much all of our games if they stay healthy. Both I think have a chance to be very good players, and they will definitely get better as the season goes,” Hennon had to say of his two catchers this year. Both players were standout athletes in high school and will have a lot of pressure placed on them to perform. Clark was selected to the First Team All-County twice in his high school career while Griffin was given All-Area team honors in Lee County. Most likely expected to split time behind the plate, Griffin and Clark will need to perform both offensively and defensively in order to help the Eagles earn another SoCon title.
Styker Brown steps up the plate in the home opener series game against University at Tennessee at Martin Feb. 18, 2012.
8
justin hess junior – pitcher Hess has performed in the pre-season scrimmages as he will be expected to during the regular season; as an effective starter. With the loss of starting pitcher Moye, Hess will need to fill the gap left in the rotation. Pitching most of his 52 innings played in relief last season, the Florida native ended last season with a 6.58 ERA and a .311 batting average by opponents. But Coach Hennon thinks Hess has improved from those marks last year and will be a factor this season. “Justin Hess has shown a lot of improvement and he is one of our leaders on our pitching staff. He’s an extremely hard worker. His stuff has improved and I certainly think he is going to be a big part of things.” Joining these underclassmen is a very talented group of veteran players, Eric Phillips, Michael Burruss, Victor Roache and Chris Beck, all selected as captains by their team mates. All returning starters, this season’s team captains will be the anchors for the 2012 Eagles. “Those guys have done an outstanding job…I really like the chemistry of this team, when we come down here to practice these guys are really focused on getting better,” Hennon said.
BEAUTY
A Green Makeover SHAUNTELL HALL offers tips for an affordable, eco-friendly makeover to any beauty routine
“Going-green” is a trend that has drifted over into the realm of beauty and cosmetics. Many of us would have never imagined swapping out our concealer, blush, mascara, and other cosmetics for a brand that would contribute to saving the planet in ways besides recycling. Many new cosmetic companies that have emerged marketing new products that are good for the environment and other existing cosmetic companies have started taking green initiatives. Benefits of green cosmetics are not just the obvious saving the planet and making it healthier, but also there are brands that will fit the college student budget of buying for a budget. Many of these brands can be found at local drugstores. When purchasing these products, focus on ingredients such as parabens, a class of chemicals used by preservatives by cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has concerns about the continuous presence of these chemicals into sewage treatment systems and eventually into recreational waters from the skin of users who swim. The risk of these chemicals are damaging to aquatic animals. Going green with beauty and cosmetics products does not have to be like pulling teeth. Many of the products can be found at home or a local drugstore, or just takes small changes to a beauty regimen.
DRUGSTORE PRODUCTS
Physician’s Formula Organic Wear is a cosmetic line that offers quality makeup that won’t break your bank account. The cosmetic line includes various powders, moisturizers, bronzers, and eyeshadow just to name a few. All of these products are 100 percent free of harsh chemicals, synthetic preservatives, and parabens. A very popular makeup line, Covergirl has even made its way into the realm of green makeup. Covergirl has developed a line “Covergirl NatureLuxe” which offers a selection of paraben-free foundations, mascaras, and lip glosses with ingredients like jojoba, cucumber and honey. Another popular drug store green makeup product line is Burt’s Bees 100 percent natural cosmetics. Burt’s Bees
carry products ranging from skincare to lip glosses and tints that are full of beneficial ingredients like Vitamin E, beeswax, and sunflower and coconut oils.
is green and not so green in an effort to not only educate but promote the purchase of products with the 100 percent certified organic seal.
HIGHER END PRODUCTS
There are also simple steps and tricks that you can use at home to be more “green” with your beauty process. According to Leonardo Manetti, cofounder of ION friendly, an eco-friendly salon in New York City, poultry items like eggs can be used as a beauty tool. Manetti says that beating three raw eggs with a drop of your favorite essential oil and letting it sit for 15-30 minutes uncovered are the recipe for stronger and shinier hair. Other at home green beauty tips are choosing a wash cloth instead of those throwaway face wipes, investing in a reusable razor, and indulging in short daily shower sessions.
Some popular cosmetic companies with green initiatives for their products include every girl’s best friend, MAC cosmetics. The cosmetic company has taken a small step to going green through their Back to MAC recycling program. Through the program customers can participate by returning six primary MAC containers to the store or online and receive a free MAC lipstick of their choice. Cosmetics store Sephora has also taken the initiative to create a comprehensive online glossary of terms that help customers make sense of the complicated ingredients that make up their everyday cosmetics products to get a sense of what
DO-IT-YOURSELF
Student Read, Student Led The George-Anne The Reflector Miscellany Our House Lantern Walk Our Neighborhood
Follow the George-Anne on Twitter @TheGeorgeAnne or visit thegeorgeanne.com
THE REFLECTOR • 19
FASHION
SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN MOLLY MCNALLY speaks on Southern style and the role as a campus ambassador to brands, such as SEAN CLARKE, of BUFFALO AND COMPANY Southerners are, by definition, people of pride. The war of northern aggression did not stop us from hanging our Dixie flags high, and we introduced the world to one of the greatest inventions - bourbon. This sense of pride is something that carries over to the way we dress, therein making sure that we’re looking our best whether we’re tailgating in cowboy boots or sporting seersuckers come spring. A new wave of companies like Southern Tide, Southern Heritage, and Southern Proper have begun to permeate college campuses and specifically tailor their brand to the southern gentleman. These companies hook students in for playing up the commitment to that beloved south of the Mason-Dixon line and put as much quality into a koozie as one of their silky bowties. To further their influence on campuses, some of these companies have student ambassadors to help promote their businesses at various universities.
Sean Clarke, a freshman marketing major with an emphasis in sales, is one such student representative for the up-and-coming men’s clothing line, Buffalo & Company; a company founded in 2009 by a University of Tennessee graduate with a commitment to the company’s concept of hard work, honest values, classic styles, and a little rugged side. As a campus representative Clarke is passionate about getting the word out about the company and their values, as well as promoting their products to the students at Georgia Southern University, especially his fraterntiy brothers. He believes “in business, like everything in life - it’s all about how you present yourself.” Clarke reached out to the company to gain the position after hearing of a friend like with a similar position for Guy Harvey, Inc. “I love how they promote American values and stress the importance of restoring masculinity in men’s lifestyle and clothing,” said Clarke.
LOOK AGAIN Inspiration. It’s the basis of every great artistic endeavor. Every film, every painting, every song, grows from a seed of inspiration. Fashion, like every other abstract piece of art, is produced from some source of inspiration. Within the depths of the environment one can draw from the hidden beauty that surrounds them. But can beauty and excitement be created from the mundane? Designer Yves Saint Laurent spoke these famous words, “all creation is just re-creation, a new way of seeing the same things, and expressing them differently,” basically a new outlook on the old and boring, using them as a muse to inspire greatness. Creation— or recreation, according to Laurent— is based on our surroundings. A college campus may not seem like such a 20 • THE REFLECTOR
Clarke wearing a Buffalo & Co. shirt “Their idea is to restore the style of ‘The Rugged Gentleman.’ I just like how they incorporate a lot of great American icons in their products, too. They honor past presidents like Reagan, and other political figures that have shaped America because they care about where we have come from as a country and include that in their products.”
TANIQUA R. RUSS opens her eyes to the campus landscape. Using POLYVORE.COM, she complies these architecturally-inspired outfits ideal for the sunny days ahead.
magnificent source of art, but it can be. It’s greatness is not inherent, it requires some cultivation by the artist, but if a graffiti tagged building can cause a designer to reap the harvest of fashion week collections, then the architecture and colors all over Georgia Southern University can harvest a few outfits. Walking down the to the Russell Union is an ordinary thing for most students, nothing particular “muse-ing” about it. However, consider the circular shape of the Rotunda and the columns that hold up it’s open atrium. The neutral colors that characterized the outside of the building. The texture of the bricks that make up the Union. All of those aspects can serve as inspiration for a great outfit, deemed great art. Sweetheart Circle is a
inspired by the Rotunda
inspired by Sweetheart Circle
tradition here on campus. It’s what characterizes GSU, that along with the squirrels that run around, so a Southern outfit would be nothing without the two cents of the Circle and the squirrels. The rust colored walkway up to the Marvin Pittman building plus the seasonal flowers that bloom in
the middle of the circle equal more than just a beautiful scene. Fashion is simply reworking the old surroundings and form new ideas, so take a second look at the things you see every day. Use GSU as a muse, as a seed of inspiration and turn a mundane collegiate routine into fashion perfection.
FASHION
Dish Boutique
DISH-ING OUT STYLE LAURA LANIER of BOUTIQUES IN THE BORO shares her point of view with COLLEEN MCNALLY on breaking the rules and starting her own business Owner of local boutiques Runway, Social, and most recently Dish, the stylish Laura Lanier aims to offer an alternative place to shop. “I felt like everything in town was on the higher end, and didn’t really feel like anything was geared towards college girls,” said the entreprenuear. “I went to [University of] Georgia, and Athens is full of shops like this.” Lanier didn’t graduate with a fashion degree, and didn’t have any experience in retail. After working in politics as a campaign manager for 10 years, Lanier found a correlation when transferring her professional skills. “Fashion is fun. I mean, of course it is. But I don’t think you can be successful unless you are a solid manager. Not just of your time, but managment of your image and how you project yourself,” she explained. So where does Lanier get her personal fashion sense? “I’m kind of all over the map,” she confessed. “I really like it all, and that’s one reason we have multiple locations. On any given day, I could look totally different,” said Lanier. She defines Dish’s style as boho-
chic, with looser silouhettes and mixing patterns and unexpected color combinations, while Social is the preppier alternative. “The price point is the same, but the shapes are more tailored, more classic kind of preppy with a twist,” she said. Lanier also disagrees with the concept of fashion faus paus and rules of matching. “I really try hard to tell people to mix black and brown, prints and stripes, and you’ll be amazed at how your tiny closet can expand when you get out of preconcieved notions of what goes with things,” said Lanier. “I know there is the old cliche about looking in the mirror before you leave your house and take one thing off. We do not agree. We think you should add. I think the more that you have on, the more interest your outfit has.” This view shouldn’t be confused with Lanier trying to sell everything in her stores. Instead she tries to educate customers. “I would rather a customer leave here without anything and leave here with more confidence with what they have in their closet, and maybe come back here in a month.”
Lanier with maxi dress by Maime Ruth
romper by THML neckalace by Lucky Brand
on spring trends:
“Tribal print. Rompers or dressy shorts are easy and casual for a night out at the bars.”
on Maime Ruth brand: “She has such a unique perspective. Even between the same dresses, you can tell she used different parts of the fabric, so people can have a one of a kind item, especially a $100 price point. We always have a lot of her inventory. She is a local success story.”
cuff bracelet by Maime Ruth boots by Envy
on Southern style:
“It’s more casual, boots and a jean jacket with a dress. Cowboy boots. We can’t keep them in. We sell out every time.”
on jewelery: “Lots of bangles. Mix and match. Don’t just wear one, wear five. We are for maximilism, not minimiliasm. Although this I probably wouldn’t wear with other bracelets.” THE REFLECTOR • 21
MUSIC
FILM
Paralytic Stalks Of Montreal Athens own Of Montreal recently released their album, Paralytic Stalks; a project riddled with monstrous layers of instrumental and electronic blunders, groovy melodies, poppy ballads, and a couple of tracks that sound like a schizophrenic Bon Iver. Unlike their previous albums, Of Montreal is slowly getting away from the electronic layering, and is beginning to layer live instrumentation, giving a heightened quality to their music. All in all, the new addition to the band’s prolific career pays tribute to who they truly are, experimenters. Tracks such as “Exorcismic Breeding Knife” and “Wintered Debts” showcase the new found dark nature of the group with lyrics like, “There’s a flash of dead-eyed hatred in these horse-faced, hours and hours, don’t let this be how I’m remembered”. Of Montreal started out in 1997 with a sound pulled straight out of the 60s, with an addition of small silly bridges, and kazoos. After seven albums, they began to experiment with their music in new ways and slowly started to create new sounds on “Satanic Panic in the Attic”, released in 2004. As prolific as Of Montreal has been, it’s obvious that they’ve always enjoyed messing around with different sounds and instruments. Their obsession with creation is what has made them such a joy to listen to after all these years. Cycling through 17 different members within the band’s career, leading to a group of eight today, demonstrates how seriously they take their work. Paralytic Stalks is a bad dream where you’re slowly waking up, stretch out, and then suddenly you realize you’re stuck in a huge hurricane, reach the eye of the storm and it becomes calm again, then the mood changes and shit(it) just goes crazy again. This psychedelic pop rock group does an interesting job of trying to construct a balance of madness and sanity, with scales surprisingly tipping to the latter, though not by much. Front man Kevin Barns utilizes the full extent of his vocal prowess with his talents reaching a mixture of a little Robin Pecknold (Fleet Foxes) with a heavy dose of Andrew VanWyngarden (MGMT). Of Montreal’s bold new LP certainly has its moments with progressive layering and experimental compositions, making it a must listen for those who enjoy new sounds and styles. BRANDON ANDERSON, WVGS Station Manager
The Singles Goldfrapp United Kingdom’s own electronica-duo Goldfrapp, known for shifting directions while maintaining originality, is back for their first compilation album. With Alison Goldfrapp’s euphoric and haunting vocals and Will Gregory’s skills on combining a blend of his multi-layered synthesizer into classical symphonies and serenades, the duo spent a decade making music that gives chills, thrills and a grand time. Before they formed in 1999, Alison Goldfrapp began her music career as a guest vocalist with the electronic band Orbital and trip hop artist Tricky. When she met composer Will Gregory the same year, the duo formed together under Alison’s last name. Their debut album, Felt Mountain, was released on September 2000. The album featured a mixture of music styles including cabaret, electronica, folk and cinematic soundscapes. Their sophomore album, Black Cherry, is about keeping the strings off their debut album and adding a mixture of glam rock, including raunchy lyrics and retro rhythms. Supernature, Goldfrapp’s third album in 2005, was the album that sent them to international success with their in-your-face track “Ooh La La.” This album consists of more glam rock, alternative and focuses more on hooks rather than choruses from their previous album. In 2008, Goldfrapp abandoned their previous dance style and went to back to their natural roots. Their fourth album, Seventh Tree, included dream-pop, folk-tronica, inspired by Paganism with a mix of surreal English children’s books. Their current album, Head First, released in 2010, lost their folk image and started to pay tribute to the 80s by bringing back synth-pop and dance. The Singles album features 14 singles from the duo’s five studio albums, including two new songs “Yellow Halo” and “Melancholy Sky.” All in all, this album itself will be a whimsical and beautiful adventure for music lovers. GARY BARTON, WVGS Music Director 22 • THE REFLECTOR
Ryan Reynolds
Safe House
Whenever Denzel Washington decides to grace the big screen, nothing less than a classic film is to be expected. Unfortunately, Safe House is of an exception to the rule. In this action-packed thriller Washington plays seasoned and quick-witted CIA agent, Tobin Frost. Frost is suspected of betraying his country by selling secret files to enemies of the nation. From the moment Washington appears on screen, he is viciously hunted for the classified data by an unknown killer. A young CIA recruit Matt Westin, played by Ryan Reynolds, is the head of a “safe house” in Capetown, South Africa. He has grown tired of only answering phone calls and not witnessing any action. When the infamous Frost is transported to his “safe house”, Westin is fascinated with the new guest and is shocked to see that CIA agents questioning and threatening Frost. Within hours, the “safe house” is attacked by killers hunting for Frost and his information. Ruthlessly, the attackers stop at nothing and no one to get to the man that keeps managing to slip through their fingers. An anxious and fearful Westin makes the decision to take Frost and escape from the “safe house”. From that point on, the film is a non-stop hide-and-seek game. Well, a hide-and-seek game chock full of gun fights, exploding buildings, and nonsensical murders. The disappointment, though, is in no way due to the acting. Both Washington and Reynolds execute solid roles and create enthralling characters for us to connect with. It’s the unfolding of the plot that is a bit anticipated. Not only do we know who the “bad guys” are when it’s supposed to be unclear, but their roles are hardly involved in the movie. The film deals more with creating suspense-induced action scenes than a solid plotline and lacks focus on other important characters. Though, if you’re looking for a movie with great acting that keeps you jumping during every other scene, I’d recommend it. Still, you can never go wrong with Denzel, regardless. AYANA MOORE
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo A side-by-side comparision of the American fim adaptation and the book by GRACIE KESSENICH
FILM The film The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is not for the faint of heart. The mystery that surrounds a young girl’s disappearance is left in the hands of Daniel Craig, or Mikael Blomkovist. Mikel is a Swedish reporter recently found guilty of libel. (For those of you not in the know about journalism jargon, this means you used false information in a story, published something that was untrue – huge deal!) The disappearance of Harriet Vanger, soon-to-be heiress of the Vanger Corporation, shakes Henrik Vanger to the core. His family consists of liars, thieves, and philanderers. His niece was the one person in the family he could trust; she was the only one untouched by their corruption. When she disappeared, it was Henrik’s undoing. “So in effect I’ve spent half my life collecting information about a single day.” Henrik says to Mikael in his drawing room, pleading with him to take up the mantle of solving the mystery. Christopher Plummer plays Henrik Vanger, a seemingly simple fellow. The depth of Henrik’s cunning, however, is unsurpassed. He turns out to be one sharp cookie. Hiring Mikel to investigate a girl that’s been missing for over two decades seems like a desperate plea from a dying man. Yet, the mystery captivates even a skeptical Mikael. An hour into the film and months into the investigation, Lisbeth Salander, a tattooed computer hacker played by Rooney Mara, becomes Mikael’s research assistant. She’s the actual girl with the dragon tattoo. Lisbeth is suggested to Mikael by an Alfred-like butler that’s been with the family since it was a fetus. But Lisbeth has a complicated past of her own. She burned her house down as a child, killed her father, and has been under Guardian custody since she was an adolescent. To make matters worse, these guardians have been less than perfection. Keep in mind, this is Sweden, apparently they don’t believe in faerie godmothers. So rape has more to do with the film than comfort allows. A violent rape scene that would leave anyone cringing and angry involves Lisbeth and her current guardian. But this has nothing to do with the mystery of Harriet Vanger’s disappearence! Just another example of the film’s many layers of plotline. As Lisbeth joins Mikael in his search, the film jumps to six speeds of crazy. And soon, the mystery becomes eye-popping, unexpected, and chair gripping. On the downside, the movie assumes that the audience has read the book. Though most who see the movie have, the film makes irrational plot jumps that are hard to follow unless you read the book. Even from a reader’s perspective, I caught myself pulling from my memory of the novel. Though the book was not necessary to follow the storyline nor to make it a good movie, it was probably a good indicator of what to expect. If not, the film should have a warning label – WARNING: WILL BE INTENSE AND SHIT GETS REAL.
BOOK One word: Detail. Steig Larsson did his homework when it came to Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Every word was calculated and every paragraph held a new depth to the story line that surpassed the previous. The main character, journalist Mikael Blomkvist, is a man in recovery. Whether it’s a cowardly recovery or a strategic one, an optimistic audience tends to believe the latter. Larsson’s attention to detail is unparalleled. His words are well-thought out and the way he writes the novel is almost lyrical. Overall, the book was well worth the read. However, with detail comes a certain amount of lulls in the novel; and there are a few. But Larsson quickly jumps the characters into the middle of an intense scene of some revelation or rising action or plot twist that drives the story forward and drives the reader onward never skipping a page or missing a beat. The most interesting part of Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is the loving detail of the characters. It’s this fact alone that makes the story so believable. The characters begin to develop into actual humans that could walk the Earth with the depth and personality detail Larsson gives for them. They aren’t just the heroes saving the day, they have faults and they make mistakes and one has piercings and tattoos and doesn’t get along with the other kids. The most interesting character of the novel, the one with tattoos and piercings is Lisbeth Salendar. Riddled with should be crippling psychological damage because of her past, Lisbeth manages to become the bad-ass crazy woman most people only wish to have the nerve to become. However, Mikael and Lisbeth don’t even become aquainted until half way through the book. Nevertheless, by the time they do, the audience has read so much about them, their past and their present, it begs the question, will they clash like the titans they are? The clash rings out and the characters seem to be running through every scene and running off the page because that’s how fast you’re reading. The novel is not a light read. With rape, incest, and abuse all bleeding from the pages, it’s not for those who are seeking an easy read. It reveals horrors of humanity that are its best-kept secrets. In some instances it leaves the reader clutching their throats for fear of regurgitation. Yes, I warned you, detail. Yet, overall the book is a titillating experience that redefines the mystery novel. It propels the reader through a maze of experiences that they never gave a sideways glance. It reveals the strength a single person can have despite horrors they’ve experienced. If ever there was a person to look up to in terms of sheer determination and strength of will, it’s the girl with the dragon tattoo. THE REFLECTOR • 23
HOW TO: GET LUCKY Getting it on, knocking the boots, the pants-off dance-off — that’s right people, we’re talking about sex. No matter what you call it, everyone likes to get lucky once in a while. It seems that this time of year that love is lingering lightly in the air. The seasons are changing, the birds are chirping, the bees are buzzing, pools are getting crowded and clothes are becoming scarce. All signs are pointing to there being love in the air. Well, maybe not love, more like lust. Following the recent celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, many are going to see if they still got a little luck of the Irish left in them.
PICK A LOCATION
The first step is to choose the proper venue in which to initiate social interaction with the person, or persons, you are attracted to; so you’re going to want to go to the bars. Hopefully you are attempting to pick up individuals you are actually attracted to and not just out trying to take home any random person in an alcohol induced haze, only to wake up the next morning like an amnesiac, not knowing where you are or whom you are with. If this is your case, you need not read any further. The information in this article cannot help you. The help you need could best be sought at the Health Center, and perhaps some counseling. Once you’ve determined what will be the main base of operations, you must then decide upon a strategy to ensure a successful night — not always the easiest thing to do. I asked some owners and employees of a few of the local bars about what their strategies for sealing the deal are and what tactics they see others 24 • THE REFLECTOR
use in pursuit of some after-thebar extracurricular activities.
ASK THE EXPERTS
No doubt there are variety of approaches, but manger of The Grill Joey Bayens has his own signature method for success. To get a girl back to his place, Bayens said, “I tell them, ‘Let’s go ride four-wheelers.’” It may come as a surprise that Bayens said his success rate with using this line is about 50/50. He said that this line usually is a good one to use on girls from the city. This makes perfect sense, seeing girls from metropolitan areas are less likely to have had exposure to thrills of riding on the back of a four-wheeler while holding onto some guy. Bayens said that if the girls don’t at first understand the implications that go along with riding fourwheelers, “they understand it later.”
A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
Liz Gates, a server at Retrievers, said that the most successful tactics she sees guys use to engage girls at the bar are the more subtle ones. “It’s your normal, ‘Oh, dance with me. Do you have a lighter? Can I get you a drink? Play a game of pool with me. Do you want to be my pool partner?’” Gates said. Gates said the best way for a guy to get a girl interested in him is to just be social. Basically guys should talk and interact with women the same way you do with you friends, like normal human beings rather than sexual objects. You might just end up having fun — not to mention the increased probability of getting lucky. While these are only a few different strategies, the one thing in common for it to be
successful if the person using it shows confidence while doing so. However, there are plenty of tactics that just don’t work. As one of Retrievers’ servers, Gates must wear the bar’s signature referee shirt as part of her uniform, which are notoriously low-cut. It should come as no surprise that wearing such an outfit would make her a constant target for lame pick-up lines and advances. It’s just crazy — like guys, especially if you give them a couple beers, like one or two beers, and suddenly their ego goes from normal, to through the roof — like they can get any girl in there,” said Gates.
DON’T BUY HER DRINKS
Among the male bar owners and employees, they all agreed unanimously that the absolute worst tactic in the attempt get lucky was to buy round after round of shots for your potential hook-up. “Buying lots of shots doesn’t normally get them (guys) laid, pretty much ever,” Gordon said. “Anytime your buying drinks for her and her friends, if you get past the first round then it’s probably never gonna happen. So, when you get guys and they’re going back and they’re dropping a hundred, two hundred dollars on drinks for her and two girls, if she’s not interested in you after one drink, she’s not gonna be interested in you after ten drinks.” Ron Whidby, owner of The Grill, shares Gordon’s sentiments wasting money on shots to try to impress girls.
“A guy runs up a hundred dollar tap thinking he’s gonna get a piece, and then a guy comes in that might have spent three bucks that whole damn night, swoops them up and takes them from him, is always funny. That always happens,” said Whidby.
PLAY IT SMART
Bayens however had a slightly different reason for recommending that a guy not buy round after round of shots. His concerns were more health oriented. “Some guys get the girls too drunk,” Bayens said. “So, when the girls get too drunk, the girls’ friends come over and say, ‘Oh my God, let me take you home.’ So, then the dude’s left empty handed.” Photographer for Rude Rudy’s Jonathan Corona advises against buying shots strictly on a basis of finances. “Buying shots — it always fails. Everyone’s like, ‘Oh, but I bought her a drink.’ I’m like, ‘Dude, you realize she just didn’t want to spend her money,’” Corona said. “I love that everyone thinks that just because you buy someone a drink, that that means they’re instantly going to go home with them.” Corona went on to explain that if he is with a girl at a bar and another guy asks her if she wants a drink, Corona will walk off and let the other guy pay for her tab. “Dude, you can buy all the drinks for her all she wants, you know, that’s less money I have to spend,” Corona said. “And, I know I’m not the only guy with that mentality.” MATT D’LA ROTTA
OFFICE HOURS WITH ERIC NELSON CREATIVE WRITING PROFESSOR
“Yes, it’s very lived in. I spend a lot of time in my office so I like it to be comfortable and feel like somewhere I can stay awhile.”
“There’s a ‘Words in Motion’ poster I’ve had since 1984. I think [calligraphy] is really beautiful but I don’t know anything about it. I just love the shape and dynamic of it and how it looks on the page. I don’t even know what it means. Someone came and read it for me once but now I’ve forgotten. That was actually right about the time I was working at the Library of Congress before I started teaching.”
“I’m very sustainable. This is all reused stuff.”
"That's a picture of Dillon Thomas, a great poet, and it belonged to David Starns, a good friend and colleague in this department who was killed in a car accident in 2007."
“My [decorating] philosphy is left over furniture from my house. That’s where those two chairs come from; old library chairs.”
"My favorite poster is the national poetry month poster with Emily Dickinson's dress hanging ghost-like. I like the ghostly aspect of the dress suspended with the black background. She was known for wearing a white dress and being very reclusive. [The picture] suggests her reclusiveness.”
This Ansel Adam’s photograph is called ‘Moonrise Over Hernandez’. It was also Davids. It was a particular favorite of his so I put it up there to help me think of David.” THE REFLECTOR • 25
REFLECTIONS ESSAY
Alton Standifer considers...
INVOLVEMENT Phi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated, I felt that I had accomplished all that I set out to do as a leader. As a Kappa Man I have been able to meet and network with other individuals who have come to be lifelong friends and brothers. Little did I know, there were still worlds of opportunities that awaited me. I was also the first student to be elected to serve two terms as the president of our Student Government Association. I think of all the things that I have accomplished thus far, this is one of the things that sits at the top of my list of achievements. Serving such a great student body is something that I would not trade in for the world. From this opportunity I was able to go on and be a part of a search process at the state level, which brought forth the selection of the current Chancellor of the University System of Georgia. This was an eye opening experience that enlightened me with real world experiences unparalleled to any that I have ever been a part of before.
“
26 • THE REFLECTOR
I realized that there had to be a healthy balance between what I loved to do and what I had to do.
student. This is a battle to which I had to fight silently within myself. It was not until I hit a brick wall and had to repeat a section of my coursework in the College of Education that I had a wake-up call. I realized that there had to be a healthy balance between what I loved to do and what I had to do. I will never forget a lunch that I had with Associate Vice President Russell Keen that changed my view on my role as a leader. He reminded me that service to my peers is a great and noble thing to do, but not at the cost of a disservice to my education. Through all of my triumphs and troubles, I can equate a great deal of that success to the remarkable mentors that I have had here on campus. My first on campus job was servings as a Member Services Assistant at the RAC with people who taught me the importance of building good relationships within your work environment and holding yourself accountable for the work that you do. I can also thank people to whom were a part of my development in the Admissions Office. These people are credited with helping me find my way to what will be the beginning of my career as a professional in Higher Education. Through working with SGA, I have been blessed to be able to be mentored by senior level administrators. All of these people have played major roles in my development as both a student and a leader. Whether it was a scolding me when I did something wrong or congratulating me when something was right. They are the people that I have come to count on to provide me with advice. I truly say thank you to these and other individuals to whom I have omitted doinga service to this great university. To students that follow: I challenge you to not sell yourselves short. Set your eyes upon the prize to which you seek and work for it like your life depends on it. You are part of what I would call one of the greatest cultures of higher education in the world. Georgia Southern is a place that has shaped me into the man that will now go out and face the world much more prepared than I was before coming here. May God bless America, and may God bless the Eagle Nation!
“
As I reflect on the past few years of my life I am swiftly taken back to the hot summer days when I woke early on a Tuesday morning to make my way from my small town of Monticello, Ga to the place that would become my home for the next five years. I remember being so particular about each part of that day. We had to eat our favorite meal for dinner the night before, I wore my favorite outfit, and my lucky undies for my introduction to Georgia Southern University. In writing this, I still feel a sense of honor and privilege to be a part of a place with such amazing culture, rich history, and most notable, a promising future. It would take much more than the space allotted me in this publication for me to acknowledge all that this place now means to me. I remember to this day being the first student to walk into my small group room. and sit in the front row. I was more concerned at that time with how I could become a leader than what meal plan or parking pass I should grab. I was extremely happy to see that there were going to be leadership opportunities for me here at GSU. As a student that was heavily involved in extra-curricular activities at my high school, I wanted to be able to model those experiences on a larger stage at the institution I attended. The Southern Pathways program was my first introduction to collegiate leadership opportunities. Young leaders like myself were able to come to campus a week early and participate in intensive servant leadership activities. It was so amazing to meet this core group of leaders that I would, over the years, learn and grow with. One student that participated in that program with me went on to be in every interview, for almost every leadership position that I applied for. It was eventually understood that if one of us were going to apply for something, the other had no choice. I did go on to serve as a orientation leader not once, but twice. Following my tenure as an orientation leader was my initiation into my fraternity. Upon gaining membership into the Omicron
Though the previous paragraph has made it seem like this road has been a bright ray of sunshine that is, unfortunately, not the case. Fredrick Douglas once said, “If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” There have been times that I have had to stay up late nights and early mornings. These included activities such as preparing proposals for the HOPE Scholarship to take to meetings with SGA presidents across the state, as well as getting up early in the morning to drive to a neighboring community to develop my skills as a Middle Grades educator. I can recall as a younger, less mature student, not placing the adequate importance on the academic side of my life. I was so in love with activities outside the classroom that I began to abandon my responsibilities as a
OVERHEARD AT SOUTHERN People say crazy things in public. Here are some of those crazy things that were heard right here in Statesboro.
"DUDE, I CAN'T BELIEVE PINKY HAS AIDS. SHE WAS A HERO. NOW SHE'S NOTHING."
"I'M GOING TO TRY TO TRADE MY MEAL PLANS FOR WEED."
"SHE DIDN'T WANT ME OUT OF HER LIFE, SO THERE WAS ONLY ONE SOLUTION FOR THAT - SHE ASKED ME TO MARRY HER ON FACEBOOK."
"HIS HEAD IS KIND OF BIG. IT'S NOT LIKE A HUGE, UPSIDE DOWN RAINDROP. IT'S LIKE A MEDIUM SIZED, UPSIDE DOWN RAINDROP."
"arnold is in my 9 a.m. and i met his brother sam yesterday. they are the cutest puppies."
"I TOOK HIS MAN card YESTERDAY BECAUSE HE HAS A PINTEREST ACCOUNT."
"LET'S JUST SAY I WAS OFFERED A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF MONEY TO PHOTOGRAPH PARTS OF MY BODY FOR SOME GUY."
"WHO CARES IF THIS CLASS IS BORING? DUDE, HE LOOKS LIKE PROFESSOR SNAPE!"
"I DONT THINK I COULD EAT SOMETHING i just shoved IN MY PANTS." "WELL IF IT 's IN A WRAPPER ..."
"YOU COULD BE DRESSED UP AS A PREACHER. I'M STILL GONNA SNIPE YOU." THE REFLECTOR • 27
28 • THE REFLECTOR