WEDNESDAY JANUARY 15, 2014 VOLUME 120 ISSUE 73 Serving The University of Alabama since 1894
Blake Sims
Alec Morris
HEIGHT: 6’3” WEIGHT: 230 lbs. HOMETOWN: Allen, Texas
HEIGHT: 6’ WEIGHT: 202 lbs. HOMETOWN: Gainesville, Ga.
?
who’s next Parker McLeod
Luke Del Rio
Cooper Bateman
HEIGHT: 6’3” WEIGHT: 208 lbs. HOMETOWN: Murray, Utah
HEIGHT: 6’2” WEIGHT: 203 lbs. HOMETOWN: Highlands Ranch, Colo.
HEIGHT: 6’3” H WEIGHT: 193 lbs. W HOMETOWN: Marietta, Ga. H CW | Photos by Austin Bigoney, Graphic by Anna Waters
shared a handshake or a hug. It was the end of an era for the two-time national champion quarterback who won all but four games in three years as a starter. Just as one era ends, another must begin. From the time the clock hit zero in New Orleans, so began arguably the most anticipated and easily the most crowded quarterback competition at Alabama since Saban’s arrival in 2007. In reality, it started long before that.
Following McCarron’s tenure, Alabama looks to fill position By Marc Torrence | Sports Editor AJ McCarron sat and stared at his locker after Alabama’s 45-31 loss to Oklahoma in the Sugar Bowl. He kept his head up as a few coaches, players and staffers came over and
“Everybody was worried when Greg [McElroy] was leaving,” McCarron said. “I heard people say Alabama was going to fall off. I’m sure one of these guys will step up and do an unbelievable job and make a lot of Alabama fans proud and the rest of our coaching staff proud.” Despite having five other quarterbacks on the roster, only converted running back Blake Sims saw substantial playing time this season.
Sims, a rising senior, isn’t the pure passer that McElroy and McCarron were, but what he lacks in accuracy, he makes up for with his ability to use his legs and scramble. “It’s going to be fun,” Sims said of the upcoming competition. “Everybody brings a lot to the table. I think Saban is going to pick the best quarterback for the team.” SEE FOOTBALL PAGE 11
CULTURE | DIETING
Weight loss programs costly for many students
$
Nutrisystem
WHAT: Alabama vs. Mississippi State WHEN: 7 p.m. WHERE: Coleman Coliseum
Tide Talks searches for new leadership Executive team applications currently online, due Friday Following its first year on campus, Tide Talks is currently taking applications for the 2014-2015 executive team. Tide Talks provides University of Alabama students with opportunities to share their experiences with other students and the community through monthly events, each showcasing four UA students. The executive team, composed of UA students, is responsible for organizing and executing all Tide Talks events. “We believe bold ideas can cause revolutionary change if they are shared among
12 11 11
today
a diverse community of people,” David Phelps, the outgoing president, said. “Tide Talks provides a unique platform for students at The University of Alabama to highlight their experiences, trials and successes. In line with our mission to empower others, Tide Talks is entirely organized by students, for students.” Applications are currently available for vice president, event coordinator, director of speaker development, director of social media, director of marketing, director of finance and video editor. Phelps said there are two steps in the application process. “Stage one: Complete the online application found on our website by Friday, January 17. We require some basic information, two short essays and a current resume for this first stage,” Phelps said.
tomorrow
Wednesday
Thursday Partly cloudy
Clear
45º/27º
50º/33º
“Stage two: Attend a 30-minute in-person interview. This interview will give us a better sense of your personality, skills and purpose in applying for the Tide Talks exec team.” Sam Gerard, a junior majoring in history and political science, spoke at Tide Talks in October and said the executive team assisted in making him feel comfortable through his experience and embracing each speaker’s individuality. “Despite my ridiculousness, [the executive team] still tolerated and respected me as a speaker and made me feel very confident in myself going into the speech, and they praised me following the speech,” Gerard said. “I’m sure my Tide Talks SEE TALKS PAGE 2
recycle th i se
per • Ple a
INSIDE
11.43
CW | Hannah Glenn
pa
Sports Puzzles Classifieds
$
Nutrisystem
s
2 4 7
20.86
NEWS | TIDE TALKS
today’s paper Briefs Opinions Culture
DietToGo
CONTACT
Men’s basketball
Jenny Craig
SEE DIETS PAGE 2
WEATHER
WHAT: Spring Get on Board Day 2014: Lock-In Edition WHEN: 5-9 p.m WHERE: 1st, 2nd and 3rd floors, Ferguson Center
$ 319.99
3.81
By Chandler Wright | Assistant News Editor
Get on Board Day
$
DietToGo
Ple a
WHAT: Scottsboro Boys: The Fred Hiroshige Photographs WHEN: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. WHERE: Paul Jones Gallery
$ 583.96
6.95
per •
Community art
$
$ 796.20
pa
TODAYON CAMPUS
Jenny Craig
s
With the timeworn New Year’s resolution of weight loss comes an annual increase in ads for fad diets such as Jenny Craig or Nutrisystem. While advertisements for these “Lose 12 in 12” diets have convinced some students, nutritionists on campus remain skeptical of the promises and payoffs of price per meal versus pounds lost. “[Diets] help you make better choices. They teach you that you can live without
$
Daily Cost $ 25.64
Monthly C M Cost
8.55
recycle thi
By Reed O’Mara | Staff Reporter
those things [like carbohydrates] and just to manage better,” said Kaitlyn Walker, a junior majoring in management and marketing. Walker has done the Special K diet in the past and is looking to begin the South Beach Diet soon as a part of a New Year’s resolution with her boyfriend. While Walker said she enjoyed doing the Special K diet, a plan where at least two meals a day are substituted with a Special K product such as a cup of cereal or a protein bar. She said the results did not entirely align with the advertisements.
se
Nutritionists advise against expensive New Year’s diets
editor@cw.ua.edu
website cw.ua.edu
CAMPUSBRIEFS
Wednesday January 15, 2014
p.2
Electives pass/fail deadline nears Students taking elective courses that do not count towards their majors can apply to have the course valued as a Pass/Fail option. Any student in good academic standing can request permission to receive a grade of “Pass” or “Fail” instead of the traditional letter grading scale. The grade of “P” in the Pass/Fail option does not affect GPA, but if a student receives a failing grade, it will be computed in the GPA. The deadline for applying for the Pass/Fail option is Wednesday. For more information tweet the SGA at @UASGA or visit ua.edu
SCENEON CAMPUS
Gallery features Scottsboro photos The Paul R. Jones Gallery of Art opened a new exhibit Jan. 10 – its first of the year – chronicling a crucial portion of the mistrial and subsequent retrial of the Scottsboro Boys, nine black teenagers arrested in 1931 for allegedly raping two white women outside Paint Rock, Ala. The photos, on loan from the Morgan County Archives, feature the 1933 retrial of Haywood Patterson, who was in court the longest, spent practically his entire life in prison as a result of the trial and endured torture by prison guards before dying of cancer at age 39. The photographs were taken by Decatur, Ala., photographer Fred Hiroshige. The exhibit will be on display until Feb. 21. In addition to the display, two speakers will discuss the Scottsboro Boys. Robin Kelley of UCLA will speak at 205 Gorgas Library at 7 p.m. on Feb. 6, and Dan Carter of the University of South Carolina will speak at the Jones Gallery at 5 p.m. as part of a larger reception at Jones Gallery. Both are free and open to the public. The last three Scottsboro Boys were officially pardoned last year.
Career Center temporarily relocates The Career Center has temporarily relocated to the former Capstone Medical Building, located at 700 University Blvd., as a result of renovations. It will resume regular hours in the Ferguson Center early Fall 2014. Walk-in hours for resume assistance at Gorgas will not be affected. To meet with a Career Center consultant, call 348-5848 or email career@ua.edu. Visit career.ua.edu for more information and regular updates. Compiled by Jason Frost
P.O. Box 870170 Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Newsroom: 348-6144 | Fax: 348-8036 Advertising: 348-7845 Classifieds: 348-7355
CW | Lindsey Leonard Students Martha Sears and Will Einhorn promote the Christian organization “Chi Alpha” in front of Lloyd Hall Tuesday.
TODAY WHAT: Spring Get on Board Day 2014: Lock-In Edition WHEN: 5-9 p.m. WHERE: 1st, 2nd and 3rd floors, Ferguson Center WHAT: Men’s Basketball vs Mississippi State WHEN: 7 p.m. WHERE: Coleman Coliseum WHAT: “Alive and Well” WHEN: 7:30-9:30 p.m. WHERE: Bama Theatre
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
WHAT: Kidney Smart Class WHEN: 3-4 p.m. WHERE: Tuscaloosa Public Library
WHAT: International Coffee Hour WHEN: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. WHERE: 121 B.B. Comer Hall
WHAT: Women’s Basketball vs Auburn WHEN: 7 p.m. WHERE: Foster Auditorium
WHAT: Lucero with Jonny Fritz WHEN: 8 p.m. WHERE: Jupiter Bar
WHAT: “Co-evolution of Tropical Plants and Pollinators” WHEN: 7 p.m. WHERE: Mulvoy Building, St. Francis of Assisi
WHAT: After Dark Party WHEN: 8 p.m. WHERE: Hive Bang Gaming
WHAT: ALLELE Lecture: Gregory Rettalack WHEN: 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Biology Building
Mazie Bryant editor@cw.ua.edu
managing editor
Lauren Ferguson
UA students try fad diets to lose weight
production editor
Katherine Owen
DIETS FROM PAGE 1
visuals editor online editor news editor
Anna Waters Mackenzie Brown Mark Hammontree
culture editor
Abbey Crain
sports editor
Marc Torrence
opinion editor chief copy editor
John Brinkerhoff Christopher Edmunds
video editor
Daniel Roth
photo editor
Austin Bigoney
lead designer
Sloane Arogeti
community managers
Elizabeth Lowder Lauren Robertson
ADVERTISING advertising manager
territory manager
special projects manager
creative services manager
account executives
Tori Hall 251.751.1781 cwadmanager@gmail.com Chloe Ledet 205.886.3512 territorymanager1@gmail.com Taylor Shutt 904.504.3306 osmspecialprojects@gmail.com Hillary McDaniel 334.315.6068 Ali Lemmond William Whitlock Kathryn Tanner Camille Dishongh Kennan Madden Julia Kate Mace Katie Schlumper
The Crimson White is the community newspaper of The University of Alabama. The Crimson White is an editorially free newspaper produced by students.The University of Alabama cannot influence editorial decisions and editorial opinions are those of the editorial board and do not represent the official opinions of the University. Advertising offices of The Crimson White are in room 1014, Student Media Building, 414 Campus Drive East. The advertising mailing address is P.O. Box 870170, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487. The Crimson White (USPS 138020) is published four times weekly when classes are in session during Fall and Spring Semester except for the Monday after Spring Break and the Monday after Thanksgiving, and once a week when school is in session for the summer. Marked calendar provided. The Crimson White is provided for free up to three issues. Any other papers are $1.00. The subscription rate for The Crimson White is $125 per year. Checks should be made payable to The University of Alabama and sent to: The Crimson White Subscription Department, P.O. Box 870170, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487. The Crimson White is entered as periodical postage at Tuscaloosa, AL 35401. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Crimson White, P.O. Box 870170, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487. All material contained herein, except advertising or where indicated otherwise, is Copyright © 2014 by The Crimson White and protected under the “Work Made for Hire” and “Periodical Publication” categories of the U.S. copyright laws. Material herein may not be reprinted without the expressed, written permission of The Crimson White.
Walker said ultimately the point of the Special K diet and other diets she has tried is to help with curbing her appetite toward smaller meals. In fact, Walker is a member of a majority, as 91 percent of college women attempt to control their weight with some sort of dieting, according to the National Eating Disorders Association. Sheena Gregg, assistant director of Nutrition and Education and Health Services at the Student Health Center, has had more than her fair share of clients who come into her office asking about meal plan diets and their sustainability. “I really commend [students] for coming in and checking with me about [diet plans] because there are going to be some plans out there that, as a registered dietitian, I would not advise,” Gregg said. “Usually the red flags for different programs I tell people to watch out for when it comes to crash diets and the like are any kind of programs that encourage folks to completely exclude certain food groups.” Gregg said she does not condemn all plans, noting that programs like Weight Watchers have proven helpful with keeping track of food
Tide Talks opens officer applications TALKS FROM PAGE 1
experience differs from other students’ experiences, but I don’t see much that they did during my talk that really required a change.” Gerard said Tide Talks provides students with an important opportunity to listen and learn from their peers. “Tide Talks offers a chance for students who do not have a sufficient venue to exchange ideas to do so in the form of a short lecture,” Gerard said.
VISIT US ONLINE AT CW.UA.EDU FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @THECRIMSONWHITE
EDITORIAL editor-in-chief
WHAT: Presenting Carl Ray WHEN: 9 p.m. WHERE: Rhythm & Brews
intake. She said the problem stems from the expense of the plans and weaning off of the plans themselves. “When it comes to programs like Jenny Craig and Nutrisystem, those types of plans can be helpful for folks who may not have a lot of time and may just want some program to tell them exactly what to eat; the only problem is it cannot be cost effective,” Gregg said. “Also, whenever somebody [transitions] back to ‘real food’ or their own food, sometimes people feel a little bit uncomfortable with that and haven’t really learned what appropriate portion sizes would be.” Moving away from specific programs, many students flock to fad diets more along the lines of lifestyle change than simply weight loss. The paleo diet, for example, excludes dairy, grain and refined sweeteners, going back to the “cave man” lifestyle. Jamie Hillman, a sophomore on the pre-law track who is training for the Tuscaloosa half marathon, is currently weaning off the paleo diet, as she said she’s found it’s too expensive for a college student to manage. “The main reason I stopped doing it was because it wasn’t convenient,” Hillman said. “The problem is the food that is convenient is unhealthy. It’s always going to be easier to get the ramen noodles than to get some nice lean chicken and vegetables, and
so that was really expensive. Coconut milk and cage-free eggs are twice as expensive.” While Hillman didn’t lose any weight from doing the paleo diet, she said she appreciated that it rid her body of processed foods. “It’s so tempting to try those [fad diets], and I did see positive results after doing the paleo. It’s tempting to try them, but I feel paleo is different from the others because you’re eating food that you get from the grocery store and not from something that you get online. The research behind it makes sense to me.” Coordinator of Fitness Services at the Student Recreation Center Jason Casey said he does not think fad diet programs or meal plans work because typically they only lead “to cyclical weight loss and regaining of the weight,” as the individual does not accomplish the lifestyle change necessary for proper weight management. Casey recommends a wellbalanced diet and physical activity that align with the American College of Sports Medicine – 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity activity and 75 minutes of vigorous intensity. “The first thing I would suggest to anyone beginning an exercise program is to set realistic, attainable goals and find an activity that you enjoy doing,” Casey said. “Oftentimes, we see various
television shows and other media outlets that depict unrealistic physical changes, and we expect those same changes,” Casey said. “Remember, a well-balanced diet is always suggested as opposed to looking at foods as being ‘good’ or ‘bad.’” When it comes to meal plans and diets, nutritionists and trainers suggest caution, as diets can promote unrealistic goals and weigh heavily on a student’s budget. Jenny Craig costs around $769.20 a month. But in addition to this price per meal, one also needs to account for the monthly fee of $19.99 after the first month free. This excludes the first membership fee of $49.50. Aside from paying for membership and meals, because most freezers in dorms and apartments are 10 cubic feet and shared among roommates, they are not meant to store large amounts of frozen foods. A 7.2 cubic feet freezer by Kenmore from Sears is $289.99, and a 19.7 cubic feet freezer is $645.99. For the easiest nutrition advice, the Student Recreation Center suggests clients follow the government’s updated food guide pyramid called MyPlate. Information can be found at choosemyplate.gov. The Jenny Craig website has a BMI calculator available as well.
“It is crucial to a college experience, because it is an attainable echelon of interdisciplinary discourse that many people can relate to, as fellow students have an opportunity to teach.” Katerina Peña, the outgoing vice president, said applicants should expect to be challenged to continue to help Tide Talks grow, if selected. “Every new officer is expected to bring new fresh ideas to the meetings, and with that the experience thrives and stays exciting in every way possible,” Peña said. “The meetings are the best part. It is where
revolutionary ideas are born.” Phelps said they’re trying to find new students who can continue to shape the organization in new ways. “While Tide Talks tries to avoid doing anything that’s really ‘traditional,’ this will be our first big leadership transition. To be clear: We are not looking for candidates to exactly reproduce the current executive team,” Phelps said. “We much prefer applicants that will innovate, not replicate. We are looking for candidates that authentically exemplify our five core values: humility, creativity,
passion, joy and professionalism.” Peña said applicants, if chosen, should expect nothing less than a revolutionary experience. “Tide Talks has singlehandedly changed my university experience,” she said. “This is an organization that was built from the ground up and will continue to change and evolve as new students take over, which is a beautiful thing.” Applications for the 20142015 Tide Talks executive team can be found online at tidetalks.ua.edu and are due Jan. 17.
p.3 Mark Hammontree | Editor newsdesk@cw.ua.edu
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Spring GOBD offers more opportunities for freshmen
‘Realizing the Dream’ event features artist John Legend
By Andy McWhorter | Assistant News Editor For students who didn’t get a chance to attend fall Get on Board Day or who might not have found the best organization for them the first time around, The University of Alabama will hold spring Get on Board Day: Lock-in Edition at the Ferguson Student Center from 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday. Lacy Sellars, office associate for the Office of Student Involvement, said Get on Board Day will be held throughout the Ferguson Center. Sellars said spring Get on Board Day is called the Lock-in Edition because of the difference in format. “It’ll be mostly in the ballroom, but we will have things going on on the second and the first floor,” Sellars said. “It’s just kind of going to be a lock-in style. An after-hours type of thing.” The spring edition is expected to be smaller than the fall edition, since freshmen have already had a semester to get involved on campus. “[There is] more excitement in the fall, freshmen coming in, it’s their first time going to the event,” Sellars said. “The spring one is a little more focused toward students that are seeking opportunities.” Despite the reduced size of Get on Board Day, students will still have opportunities to meet with representatives from a number of military, political, advocacy, service, honorary, professional, recreational and social groups. According to UA News, more than 200 student organizations will be on hand for students to ask questions and find out if they want to get involved. Besides the student organizations, there will be a number of other activities available for students who attend the event. The SOURCE, the coordinating body for student organizations at the University, will provide musical entertainment and food. “We’ll have a DJ and karaoke, and Starbucks is going to be giving out food,” Sellars said. “We’ll also have some food or prizes.” As in the fall edition of Get on Board Day, organizations will have freebies available for students interested in joining. “The SOURCE has a few gifts and things that we’re going to be giving out as well,” Sellars said.
MCT Campus John Legend is set to speak and perform at Moody Music Building. By Josh Mullins | Contributing Writer On August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. uttered four words to a crowd of more than 250,000 people: “I have a dream.” The speech has come to define King’s fight for civil rights and the Civil Rights movement as a whole. More than 50 years later, The University of Alabama and other partners will honor King’s legacy with a series of events over the course of MLK weekend. The headline event, the Martin Luther King Jr. “Realizing the Dream” Program, will feature John Legend, a nine-time Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and philanthropist. Legend will be speaking and performing at Moody Music Building on Sunday. This series, put on by the University, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and Stillman College, will be celebrating its 25th anniversary with special guests and events from Thursday to Monday. The first event will be the Legacy Awards Banquet, which will take place
PLAN TO GO WHAT: Legacy Awards Banquet WHEN: Friday, Jan. 17, 6:30 p.m. WHERE: Foster Auditorium WHAT: “Realizing the Dream” Program WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 19, 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Moody Music Concert Hall at 6:30 p.m. on Friday. The banquet will feature multiple speakers and will recognize several honorees for various accomplishments in work that is reflective of King’s legacy. The series has been successful and growing in the 25 years since it was first started. It has evolved from a single concert into a thriving event, including several activities and performances that attract sizable crowds in honor of King. “The concert is most always held in
Moody Hall, which seats about 936 people, and it is almost always sold out,” Sammory Pruitt, vice president for Community Affairs, said. “There is a banquet that takes place on the Friday before the concert called the ‘Legacy Banquet’… and that is normally sold out as well.” The “Realizing the Dream” series has seen faces such as Maya Angelou, James Earl Jones and the Rev. Al Green as it brings together all ages in the community for musical performances, poetry readings and orations that honor and pay tribute to the legacy of King and to those who are actively contributing to it. Edward Mullins, retired University of Alabama journalism professor, has worked closely with the “Realizing the Dream” committee for several years. “These annual events memorialize the life and principles of peace and racial justice championed by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,” Mullins said. The “Realizing the Dream” program will take place at 7:30 on Sunday, Jan. 19, in the Moody Music Concert Hall.
p.4 John Brinkerhoff | Editor letters@cw.ua.edu
Wednesday, January 15, 2013
TOPIC | FOOTBALL
The shakeup of the Crimson Tide The Crimson Tide’s football season did not end as many expected. At the beginning of the season, Alabama’s three-peat appeared likely, Auburn seemed destined for a mediocre season at best, and Texas A&M was seen to be our greatest opponent of the season. Even after the shocking loss to Auburn in the Iron Bowl, nobody expected the drubbing we received in the MercedesBenz Superdome. While Saban admitted internal concerns with the team during the season,
the Tide’s fan base was confident in a triumphant season from the start. Now, in the post-season world, with two consecutive defeats at our back, the future for Alabama football does not seem as certain. Alabama has lost a host of its starters, including McCarron, but realized a new star in Derrick Henry. It has replaced Doug Nussmeier with Lane Kiffin as offensive coordinator and Chris Rumph with Bo Davis as the defensive line coach. And of course, posters of a
COLUMN | LANE KIFFIN
celebrating Sooner now adorn the players’ lockers. Will these changes be a much needed shake-up for the Alabama team, or did this season display the end of Alabama’s seeming invincibility? Will Nick Saban’s gamble with Lane Kiffin pay off? Today, two columnists sound off on these changes to the Crimson Tide and the next season of Alabama football. John Brinkerhoff is the Opinion Editor of The Crimson White.
COLUMN | LANE KIFFIN
Will Kiffin create a lasting impact? Alabama to forge new era, dynasty By Will Gonzalez | Staff Columnist Ladies and gentlemen, we live in a strange new college football world. A world full of “kick-sixes” and basketball schools winning at football haunted the 2013 football season. This was a season that saw Auburn make it to the national championship game, this time without having to buy their quarterback. Clearly Pandora’s Box has been opened, and chaos has been set loose on college football. Perhaps one of the scariest parts of this turbulent season was the recent addition of Lane Kiffin as our new offensive coordinator. At the ripe old age of 38, Kiffin has had a massive amount of coaching experience in both the National Football League and at other BCS-caliber college programs. His experience running the offense during Pete Carroll’s dynasty at the University of Southern California has earned him second chance after second chance in the coaching profession. Moreover, the man is one hell of a salesman; he is the relentless kind of recruiter that Nick Saban has relied on to haul in numerous top-rated recruiting classes. However, Kiffin carries the ghost of coaching jobs past with him everywhere he goes. Nobody doubts Kiffin’s ability to coach and create offensive juggernauts, or his inability to be successful as a head coach. My fears with Kiffin simply boil down to trust and Saban’s ability to keep him in line. I understand our dislike of the University of Te n n e s s e e . Be
Will Gonzalez it Peyton Manning conducting Rocky Top in Bryant-Denny Stadium or Terrance Cody’s “Rocky Block,” there is no love lost between our two schools. However, the way Kiffin conducted himself while in Knoxville should definitely raise some eyebrows about his tenure here in Tuscaloosa. Kiffin jumped from the sinking ship of UT faster than you can say “Rocky Top,” leaving the program in shambles and with the NCAA breathing down their necks. The question needs to be asked: Is Lane Kiffin willing to actually care about and invest in The University of Alabama or is he simply waiting to jump to greener pastures? Bear Bryant was willing to leave Texas A&M simply because “mama called,” and it is my hope that Kiffin is eventually able to view the University in the same way. Secondly, it needs to be clearly understood that the mainstream sports media can smell blood in the water quicker than a great white shark. ESPN seems to love killing coaching careers by over-publicizing and
attacking every little thing coaches do. During his tenure in Tuscaloosa, Saban has done an amazing job at sheltering his coordinators from media scrutiny. After wins and losses, Saban stands in the press room and takes his lumps from the media, always accepting the blame. The media is going to try to be on Lane Kiffin like white on rice. His success or failure is largely going to be based on Saban’s ability to keep him out of the media’s eye. In all honestly, I have to admit I have never been the biggest Lane Kiffin fan; I enjoyed rooting against him while he was at both UT and USC. However, he is a part of the University of Alabama family now, and, in the end, in Saban we must trust.
By Maxton Thoman | Senior Staff Columnist “If you continue to do the same thing that you always have done, you will get the same result. Guaranteed.” I can only imagine that Nick Saban was reaching toward the definition of insanity – doing something over and over again and expecting a different result – when he selected this quote. I can only imagine he was hinting at the many changes to come. You see, these “motivational” words are reportedly
Will Gonzalez is a sophomore majoring in education. His column runs biweekly.
MCT Campus Lane Kiffin
Maxton Thoman currently hanging in the locker of every single member of the Alabama Crimson Tide football team, with a hauntingly simple “0-2” accompanying them. What’s worse, the letters are overlaid on a watermark of a celebrating Sooner, and the scores of the final two games of the season are printed overhead as a constant reminder of how we ended the dynastic run. Seems to me to be a way of saying, “Welcome to the off-season for Alabama football; welcome to insanity.” I feel for the players right now. But regardless of their underlying meaning, of course, these signs have been making the rounds on the Internet, being featured on sites ranging from Reddit to Sports Illustrated. Understandably, they have been met with mixed reviews. Some find it hard to believe that an 11-2 season could evoke such a drastic response, and find it to be in poor taste. Others see it as the only logical way to fire up the team. Maybe it’s just me, but I actually find the words to be true for any situation and honestly nothing more than a battle cry that each and every one of us should adopt during the upcoming year. There’s no shame in using shame to motivate. There’s no reason not to
identify past defeats with the intention of breaking the cycle of insanity in favor of a fresh start. The fact is, Saban has been on the horn, bringing in some new blood in the form of Lane Kiffin as our new offensive coordinator, Bo Davis as our new defensive line coach, and locking up several recruits in the past few weeks. He is preparing the team not just for a new season, but for a new era of college football. The Bowl Championship Series is behind us – where it should be – and now we should be looking forward at a whole new opportunity at dominance in the College Football Playoff. The 2009-2012 dynasty will forever be one of the greatest in history, but starting in 2014, we might just see one better. I am a firm believer in the aptitude of Kiffin, especially at running an offense (where he hopefully won’t be doing too much recruiting), and as AJ makes his transition into the NFL, I really don’t think the timing could be more perfect. With talent like Luke Del Rio on the roster and competition from Cooper Bateman to keep the two focused, Kiffin will be able to thrive, and we might just erase that 0-2 final from everyone’s memory. It’s time to look forward at the absolute potential of the upcoming seasons, get behind our new coaching staff and watch Nick Saban & Co. blow the cycle of insanity – and hopefully Auburn – right out of the water. Here’s to a new dynasty. Guaranteed. Maxton Thoman is a sophomore majoring in biology. His column runs weekly on Wednesdays.
COLUMN | JENNIFER LAWRENCE
Society’s intense obsession with Jennifer Lawrence has gone far enough By Beth Lindly | Staff Columnist Sunday night began the most wonderful time of year for me – awards season. The Golden Globes kicked off my favorite couple of months, and it delivered almost everything I love to see at an awards show: my favorite celebrities, great dresses, awards given to those who deserve it (Amy Poehler, anybody?). But before we get into the BAFTAs, SAG Awards and the Oscars, I would like to extend a formal invitation to the judges and society in general: Stop the Jennifer Lawrence madness. I have seen “Silver Linings Playbook.” I’ve seen “Winter’s Bone.” Lawrence is extremely talented; there should be no doubt in anyone’s mind about that. I’m not here to dispute her abilities. I do think, however, that there is a sort
Beth Lindly of pandemonium surrounding her lately, and, frankly, it’s tiresome. I cannot log onto social media without seeing some Buzzfeed list of .gifs of Jennifer Lawrence tripping down the red carpet or flipping off a camera or making silly faces behind another celebrity being interviewed. People marvel at how freely she talks about eating food like she’s not an actual human being that needs it to survive.
She’s been marketed as the “normal” people’s celebrity – she’s just like us! She eats! She trips! All of that is well and good initially, of course. It was refreshing for a bit, but it got boring to me after the first month of “The Hunger Games” publicity, when every little quirk she displayed was shoved down my throat. When I watch J-Law (she’s even got one of “those” nicknames) in interviews, the ones where she gushes about pizza don’t stand out to me. By now I’ve seen a thousand of those with her. No, the ones where she expresses actually interesting viewpoints about social issues are the ones I like watching. Her portrayal of her self-image, though, is boring and one-dimensional, and I know she can do better. Society’s obsession with Jennifer Lawrence goes beyond just the
goofy faces, however. More dangerous implications lie beneath her comments about weight and Hollywood. A trend has arisen about “real women” with regards to weight – real women have curves, real women this, real women that – unnecessarily driving a wedge even further between women. Just as you can shame fat women for their bodies, you can shame thin women. In an interview with UK newspaper The Mirror, J-Law was quoted as saying, “I’d rather look chubby on screen and like a person in real life.” This implies that anyone who is naturally thin doesn’t look like an actual person and is incredibly problematic. There’s no reason to decide which body shape is natural and right because that’s just not a decision you can make for other people.
EDITORIAL BOARD
WE WELCOME YOUR OPINIONS
Mazie Bryant editor-in-chief
Letters to the editor must contain fewer than 300 words and guest columns less than 800. Send submissions to letters@ cw.ua.edu. Submissions must include the author’s name, year, major and daytime phone number. Phone numbers are for verification and will not be published. Students should also include their year in school and major. The Crimson White reserves the right to edit all guest columns and letters to the editor.
Lauren Ferguson managing editor Katherine Owen production editor Anna Waters visuals editor
Mackenzie Brown online editor Christopher Edmunds chief copy editor John Brinkerhoff opinion editor
And we as consumers are also implicated in this cult of Jennifer Lawrence because we play into it. We laugh when she acts up on the red carpet; we’re convinced she’s the everyday model of “real” womanhood; we give her a cheering audience, in essence. There is nothing wrong with liking her acting or being a fan of her movies. I certainly am. But we need to acknowledge that just because someone is a great artist doesn’t mean they are a great person, and we need to learn to separate the two aspects. Until then, the reception Jennifer Lawrence’s comments about pizza receive will continue to annoy me. Beth Lindly is a junior majoring in journalism. Her column runs biweekly on Wednesdays.
Last Week’s Poll: Did the winter weather affect your travel back to Tuscaloosa? (Yes: 40%) (No: 60%) This Week’s Poll: Who do you think will be the next Alabama quarterback? cw.ua.edu/poll
p.5
Wednesday, January 15, 2014 Tom Bevill Research Building room A118 room A234
Lakeside Dining 2nd Floor
2nd S t. 7th Ave.
Psychology Clinic (C wing) 4th floor, near door to roof 4th floor, middle of the hallway near the elevator
W. Campus Dr.
H. M. Comer Hall 1st floor, near Deans office (room 150)
diu
m
Cam
pus
Dr. E
.
Outdoor Pool Complex family changing rooms (2)
6th Ave.
Student Recreation Center 1st floor, family changing rooms restrooms (2) 2nd floor (2) Nott Hall 2nd floor, next to room 224
Russell Hall 3rd floor
Martha Parham East 1st floor, left of elevator in lobby Parham East living room 1st floor, down the South hall across from laundry room Martha Parham West 1st floor, across from room 112 1st floor, entryway by soda machines 1st floor, across from room 104
Farrah Hall 1st floor, across from room 120
Mary Burke East 1st floor, left of elevator Mary Burke West Burke West living room
Hackberry Ln.
Colonia
l Dr.
Alston Hall ground floor, across from room 24
Woods Hall room 205 room 403
. Ave
Sta
Dr.
Manly Hall room105 room 311
5th
Ferguson Student Center 1st floor, next to elevators
Univer sity
Blvd.
Student Health Center 1st floor, room L209 in treatment area 1st floor, room M231 in treatment area 1st floor, room M202A in treatment area University Medical Center 2nd floor
Paul W. Bryant Dr.
Gender Neutral Restroom Locations
UA Safe Zone offers LGBTQ network, allies Program fosters environment of support for University students
CW | Belle Newby Alabama’s Safe Zone is partnerned with the national iniative safe2pee that ensures students, who do not indentify under traditional gender division, have access to restrooms without fear of harrassment or violence. By Kailey McCarthy | Contributing Writer Students who identify as LGBTQ at The University of Alabama do not have to feel alone if they need support or advice. The University’s Safe Zone program aims to provide a network of safe allies for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer and ally individuals. The purpose of the program is to foster an environment based on dignity and respect in which every student and employee is free to thrive academically, professionally and personally. Two former students, Eli Strong and Amanda Schuber, began the original Safe Zone program on campus in the spring of 2002. The Safe Zone program has grown from a small grassroots program to a fully-funded program through the Division of Student Affairs. “Amanda and I knew how important Safe Zone would and could be for the UA community,” Strong said. “We wanted UA students to have a space free from judgment to ask whatever questions they had, or just get a little support. We wanted the faculty and staff to make a commitment to learn more about the LGBTQ community, and to become allies, so that they could help students in more than just their
We wanted UA students to have a space free from judgment to ask whatever questions they had, or just get a little support. — Eli Strong studies.” One goal of the Safe Zone program at the University is to educate Safe Zone allies regarding LGBTQ needs and concerns to prepare them to offer advice and answer questions for anyone who comes to them. The program does this by holding monthly Safe Zone trainings. Meredith Bagley, a professor in the communication studies department, member of the Safe Zone Committee and a Safe Zone Trainer, explained that training for the
program is three hours long and is offered as a two-part process. “The first half includes basic terms, issues and important factors about LTGBQ experience in persons,” Bagley said. “The second half includes situational policies and scenario training. In this second half, people can have a practice round of ‘what would I do if.’ The goal is to equip whoever is attending the training and equip the people of UA to a campus culture, whether it be dorms, classrooms or dining halls, so that every student can learn and achieve their max potential. The program wants a safe environment for each student so that they can be the best version of themselves.” At the end of the training, trainees are asked if they want to become a Safe Zone ally. If they do so, they will be listed as part of the ally network. “It is a voluntary step to say, ‘OK, I’m going to be a proactive person in the sense of if a colleague is going through something I can say, hey, I went through training,’” Bagley said. “We don’t want people to sign up if they have to; we want it to be a completely voluntary decision. We always make that a step at the end.” UA undergraduate students, graduate
students, faculty and staff are all welcome to attend training. “I think we trained something like 1,200 people last year and our total allies on campus is getting close to 1,000,” Bagley said. Misha Drlikova, a member of the Safe Zone Committee and a Safe Zone Trainer, said there are open training sessions scheduled every semester. “There are typically four and anyone interested can sign up for them by visiting the Safe Zone website. The Safe Zone also holds trainings for departments if they request to have a training for their employees and students. During the summer, we train all of the RA students for Housing and Residential Communities,” Drlikova said. In addition to training individuals to be Safe Zone allies, the program also partners with several departments and national initiatives to create a tolerant and open environment on campus. Safe Zone partnered with safe2pee, a national initiative that ensures people who do not identify under traditional gender division can have access to restrooms without fear of harassment or violence. For more information on Safe Zone, visit safezone.ua.edu.
Pick up a copy of The Crimson White’s
for great deals from local stores, businesses, and restaurants!
p.6
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Blackburn Institute accepting nominations By Jessica Smith | Staff Reporter
and workforce development,” Westbrook said. “We are looking for a diverse group For years, University of Alabama stu- of people who represent various majors, dents came to expect a question from long- areas and [are] diverse in terms of pertime UA administrator John L. Blackburn: spective.” What have you done today to make the state Westbrook said Blackburn accepts outof Alabama better? He quickly became of-state students, but the vast majority known for stopping students on the Quad are in-state because the organization is to ask them about their daily contribution focused on Alabama. The expectation is to the state. that there will be a long-term commitment He is often credited with peacefully inte- to Alabama. grating the University during the 1960s, “Blackburn encourages anyone who has but when the University wanted to honor any interest in learning more about the Blackburn for his service to the University state and giving back [to] consider being a in 1993, Blackburn wasn’t comfortable hav- part of Blackburn,” Golden said. “You just ing a room named after him. After days have to have willingness.” of thinking, he came up with the idea of Throughout this month, deans, direcan organization that would cultivate the tors, faculty members and student affairs future ethical leaders for Alabama and the staff members of the University can nomination. nate students who demonstrate interest The Blackburn Institute was created and leadership relating to public policy, in the hope that students indicate strong interest in would remain in Alabama exploring issues facing the for some of their lives after state of Alabama and have graduation to give back to made significant campus the community. Marlan contributions. Potential Golden, a senior majoring members must show proin history and Spanish, said gressive leadership, demhe is open to looking at a onstrate a clear concept variety of different opporof local, state or national tunities, but ultimately he issues and have at least wants to end up back in the one full year remaining as — Velmatsu Lewis state. a student of some type at “The idea that you will The University of Alabama. come back and help out Each year, 25-30 stuyour state is part of the dents are selected as new whole idea of Blackburn,” Golden said. Blackburn students. New students are “They are investing their time and resourc- expected to serve as full participants in the es in students on campus, hoping students curriculum, including attending the D. Ray will give back to state, whether for a career, Pate Dinner, monthly discourses, travel policy or government.” experiences, an annual symposium and the Golden said the organization is a train- Frank A. Nix Lecture. ing program to learn about communities Velmatsu Lewis, a Blackburn Institute across Alabama and the issues they are student, said she plans to stay in Alabama facing. He said Blackburn wants students after graduation because it is her true to learn about communities outside of home. She said she is proud of everything what they’ve experienced in their under- Blackburn stands for and has accomplished graduate career. on campus and in the state of Alabama. In order to be part of Blackburn, stu“What makes me most proud are the dents have to be nominated for the orga- efforts of the Institute to make its stunization. The selection process takes place dent fellows aware of the problems that during the spring semester and consists of face the state,” Lewis said. “We not only three stages: nomination, application and are engaged in this way, but we try to find interview. Dr. Philip Westbrook, director of ways to solve those problems so that we Blackburn, said Blackburn accepts a new can make Alabama a better state. class of students every year through a rig“During my time in the Institute, I have orous process. learned so much more about Alabama and “Over the next few weeks we will have the challenges it faces. I am grateful for open nominations, and we will be looking the opportunity to meet such amazing peofor people who have a passion about the ple on campus and throughout the state state of Alabama and issues regarding pub- who are invested in the future of Alabama lic policy issues, education, criminal justice and work unselfishly every day to make
During my time in the Institute, I have learned so much more about Alabama and the challenges it faces.
Photos Courtesy of the Blackburn Institute The Blackburn Institute hosted a luncheon for students and fellows in Gorgas Library in August. The Institute was created in 1995 to cultivate the future ethical leaders for Alabama. Alabama a better state for everyone.” Those seeking to submit nominations may use the “2014 Blackburn Institute
Nomination” link on the home page of blackburninstitute.ua.edu. The deadline for submission is Jan. 30, 2014.
p.7 Abbey Crain | Editor culture@cw.ua.edu
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Public relations major excels in field Despite late start in program, UA senior lands top scholarships, internships By Tara Massouleh | Staff Reporter For Benjamin Ladrillono, a senior majoring in public relations, the phrase, “Be different. Be the difference,” which he developed as a response for a fellowship program application, exemplifies his past, present and future goals in life. “My Filipino heritage and culture makes me who I am,” Ladrillono said. “Everyone is different and at some point you have to embrace it in order to succeed in what you want to do. The moment you embrace being different, you can make the difference.” At just 22, Ladrillono has met with CEOs of nationally acclaimed companies, been mentored by top PR executives and interned for countless organizations and political campaigns, which is not too shabby for the senior, who came into college with the dream of becoming a lawyer. “I had a major meltdown when I decided not to pursue that path because I had this goal of going to law school my entire life,” Ladrillono said. “Then I decided one day, ‘Oh, I’m not going to do it,’ and it kind of shook my world.” Ladrillono said he decided on public relations at the off-handed suggestion of a friend at Bama Bound after he realized the University did not offer a pre-law major. By the end of his sophomore year, after taking only one introductory public relations course, Ladrillono had landed an internship in his hometown of Huntsville, Ala., doing PR for the Huntsville Museum of Art. “It was early in my PR career, and now its on the bottom of my resume, but it is probably my favorite internship I’ve done because it taught me what the field was like for the first time,” Ladrillono said. In the same year that Ladrillono completed his first internships in the PR field and decided to continue to pursue the major, he received the LAGRANT Foundation scholarship, which is awarded to 24 ethnically diverse college students nationwide in the fields of advertising, marketing or public relations. Ladrillono went on to win the scholarship again the following year. “I thought I wasn’t supposed to get the scholarship because I had still had no idea what PR was,” Ladrillono said. “I won a scholarship that I wasn’t even supposed to win.”
I thought I wasn’t supposed to get the scholarship because I had still had no idea what PR was. — Benjamin Ladrillono
“Benjie is a go-getter,” she said. “He is not the type to rest on his laurels but instead seeks ways to grow intellectually. He is quick to offer help where it is needed and is dependable to finish whatever he starts, not just meeting expectations but exceeding them.” Ladrillono said the support of his family, friends and the faculty at the University, coupled with his own motivation to be the best in all his endeavors, has been instrumental in his success in public relations while at the University. “I love knowing that what I did actually matters,” he said. “I didn’t want to come to college and think of myself as going to college to have fun and then starting work later. I kind of wanted to leave a mark. I wanted to be more than just a college student.”
d As part of the award, Ladrillono travelled p to Washington, D.C., to attend a workshop e hosted by APCO Worldwide, where he m met and formed a relationship with Pam m Edstrom, a founder of Waggener Edstrom Worldwide, the top PR firm for technology. e Ladrillono said the connections he made at the LAGRANT scholarship workshopss further fueled his passion for networking. “I get a high off of it. I love meeting people,, especially when they’re important,” he said.. “I truly believe that the business field isn’tt u about what you do; it’s more about who you know.” In taking on so many roles and projectss related to his passion for public relations,, e Ladrillono said he has had to make some sacrifices. d “I did show choir for three years and e stopped doing it because I got too busy,” he w said. “It was hard for me to let go, but I knew d it had to be done for me to really get started m on what I had to do in life. I love the field I’m in, and I wouldn’t change it.” Ladrillono said the values of humil-d ity, generosity and hard work emphasized e by his parents will play an important role e in his future professional and personal life post-graduation. e “I wouldn’t have this motivation and drive e if it weren’t for them really pushing me through it all,” he said. Tracy Sims, instructor and co-director CW | Austin Bigoney of the Undergraduate Advising Program in the department of advertising and public Benjamin Ladrillono, a senior majoring in public relations, says his past, present and future relations, said she believes through his char- goals in life can be best exemplified by his phrase “Be different. Be the difference.” acter and work ethic, Ladrillono will have no problem excelling in the public relations field.
Alabama Statewide Classified Advertising Network Ads SERVICES High-SPEED Internet is now available where you live for only $39.99 per mo. New Superfast Satellite Internet with speeds up to 15 Mbps! Ask about discounts for DishNetwork or DirecTv customers! We also now offer phone service as low as $19.99 per mo. Call Today! 1-800-266-4409 www.pbsinternet.com
HELP WANTEDDRIVERS 25 DRIVER TRAINEES needed now! Become a driver for TMC Transportation! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Job ready in 15 days! 1-888-7434611. (R) ATTN: DRIVER trainees needed! $800 to $1000 a week plus benefits! Home weekly or OTR! Everyone approved if qualified! Company sponsored, cash, finance, GI bill, WIA. No CDL, no problem, will train locally! 1-800-878-2537. (R) DRIVERS - HIRING experienced/inexperienced tanker drivers! Above average industry pay. Make up to $0.51 per mile plus additional pay for Hazmat loads, pump offs, mileage bonus and more! Late model equipment w/APU’s! 1 year OTR experience required. Call today: 1-877-882-6537. www.OakleyTransport.com. DRIVERS: RUN FB with WTI. Be home through the week and weekends. Start up to 28% plus fuel bonus. New equipment. BCBS. Experience needed. LP available. Call 1-877-693-1305. (R) NEED CLASS A CDL training? Start a career in trucking today! Swift Academies offer PTDI certified courses and offer “Best-InClass” training. New academy classes weekly, no money down
or credit check, certified mentors ready and available, paid (while training with mentor), regional and dedicated opportunities, great career path, excellent benefits package. Please call: 1-520-226-4557. NEW CAREER - CDL training. Jobs available if qualified. Call today - start tomorrow! WIA, VA, Post-9/11 G.I. Bill & Rehab. ESD TDS, LLC. 1-866-432-0430. www.ESDschool.com. (R) NOW HIRING OTR flatbed drivers. Birmingham to Florida & Texas. $0.38 - $0.45 per mile. Home most weekends. BC/BS insurance + benefits. Minimum 2 years experience & clean MVR. 1-800-580-2205 x 1. OWNER OPERATORS - average $3K per week! Be out up to 14 days, enjoy guaranteed home time! Weekly settlements. Cardinal Greatwide pays loaded or unloaded. Class-A CDL & 1yr driving experience. Fleet owners welcome. Operate under your own authority or ours! Call Matt 1-866-833-1340. driveforcardinal.com. REGIONAL CDL-A drivers Averitt offers fantastic benefits and weekly hometime. 1-888362-8608. Paid training for recent grads w/a CDL-A and drivers with limited experience. Apply online at AverittCareers. com. Equal Opportunity Employer.
HELP WANTEDSALES MAKE 2014 your year! Earn $100k+ annually. Recruiting, franchise sales, home improvements, or copier sales a plus. For more information send resume to Jim Kinning: jkinning@federalmachine.com. WANTED: LIFE Agents: Earn $500 a day; great agent benefits; commissions paid daily; complete training; leads, leads, leads;
no license necessary to apply. Call 1-888-713-6020.
HELP WANTEDTRADES HEAVY EQUIPMENT operator training! Bulldozers, backhoes, excavators. 3 week hands on program. Local job placement assistance. National certifications. GI Bill benefits eligible. 1-866-362-6497.
LAND FOR SALE MOUNTAIN STREAM Bargain! Beautifully wooded acreage - 390’ crystal clear stream, natural year-round spring, prime Blue Ridge Mountain location. Paved roads, utilities municipal water, more. Only $27,900. Excellent financing, little down. Call now 1-866-9525303, ext. 110.
FOR SALE SAWMILLS FROM only $4897. Make & save money with your own bandmill. Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info/DVD: www. NorwoodSawmills.com. 1-800578-1363 ext. 300N.
MEDICAL SUPPLIES NEW AND used - stair lift elevators, car lifts, scooters, lift chairs, power wheel chairs, walk-in tubs. Covering all of Alabama for 23 years. Elrod Mobility 1-800-682-0658. (R)
INSTRUCTION MEDICAL OFFICE trainees needed! Train to become a Medical Office Assistant! No experience needed! Online training at SC gets you job ready! HS diploma/GED & PC/Internet needed! 1-888-926-6075. (R)
p.8
Wednesday, January 15, 2013
COLUMN | MUSIC
Music selections for all occasions No matter what mood or situation you’re in, there is a soundtrack to help you navigate through each one By Francie Johnson
YOU’RE STUDYING
It’s only our first full week back, but, of course, most of us already have some studying to do. Next time you hit the books, try listening to the “The House We Grew Up In” by Hammock. (Or really any song by Hammock. This one just happens to be my favorite.) Most of their songs don’t have lyrics, making them the perfect ambient music for studying.
YOU’RE WORKING OUT
My go-to workout song will always be “The Pretender” by Foo Fighters. If you can somehow push through that slow intro (trust me, it’s easier said than done), this song will give you the boost you need to complete that last rep or finish those last few seconds on the treadmill.
YOU’RE IN LOVE
Because, you know, there aren’t enough love songs out there, and you obviously need me to enlighten you. (That was sarcasm … Anyone? No? OK.) I don’t want to pick just one. And this is my column, and I can do whatever I want, so here are three: “January Wedding” by The Avett Brothers, “You and Me” by Lifehouse and “Tiny Dancer” by Elton John.
YOU’RE A NOSTALGIC SENIOR
“Graduation (Friends Forever)” by Vitamin C. Cue montage of dreamy flashback images.
IT’S RAINING OUTSIDE
“Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right” by Bob Dylan. Somehow the sound of rain in the background manages to make my favorite Bob Dylan song even better. Although, I’m pretty sure rain does that to almost every song. Runner Up: “The Ghost of Tom Joad” by Bruce Springsteen.
YOU’RE DRIVING FAST WITH THE WINDOWS DOWN
YOU’RE LOOKING FOR NEW(ISH) MUSIC
“All Right Now” by Free. Or pretty much any classic rock song. This is what they were made for.
YOU JUST GOT DUMPED, AND YOU NEED TO UGLY-CRY
YOU’RE DRIVING
“Snow” by Red Hot Chili Peppers. In reality, I believe this is the perfect song for every possible occasion, but I didn’t want to get too redundant, so I’ll just put it here. Runner Up: “Smooth” by Santana. Bonus points if your windows are rolled down. Speaking of which…
Hands down, “River” by Joni Mitchell. Remember when Jess from “New Girl” broke up with that one guy and annoyed all of her roommates by listening to the same song over and over again? Well, this was that song, and for good reason. Just push play, grab a pint of Ben & Jerry’s, and let it all out.
“Epilogue” by Crosses, “It’s About Time” by Young The Giant, “The Walker” by Fitz and the Tantrums, “Giants” by Bear Hands … I could go on.
YOU’RE DANCING AROUND IN YOUR UNDERWEAR
Pretty much anything by Beyonce will suffice. Have your pick and start shakin’. Runners Up: “Love Me Again” by John Newman and “Tokyo (Vampires & Wolves)” by The Wombats. Images Courtesy of Amazon.com
COLUMN | FASHION
Matching prints introduce 2014 By Abbey Crain Matching skirt sets are usually likened to Judy Bonner-esque red suits and floralpatterned legging-tunic combos from pre-K. But 2014 brings with it refined digital prints and modern silhouettes worth replicating on both the top and bottom halves of your ensemble. Last year was a year of print mixing; from plaid and polka dot to stripes and florals, the perfect concoction of mismatched was prized among street style gurus. This year it’s all about making a big statement with coordinating prints from head to toe. Mara Hoffman and Vivienne Tam offered their take on coordinating separates on their spring 2014 runway looks. The models used the conservative hemlines to their long-legged advantage, bathing in tribal and geometric prints. J. Crew offered its take on the look with a bright geometric and floral boxy top and shorts set and styled it perfectly with metallic heels and geometric earrings. The key to a matching print is a proportioned silhouette and coordinating accessories. A large floral maxi skirt and matching cropped top probably wouldn’t flatter the average woman, but a swingy skater skirt and T-shirt set bathed in a smallish polka dot
coordinates perfectly for a student looking to give matchy-matchy a go. As for accessories, opt for solid bags and simple shoes. I have been searching for the perfectly printed skirt-pant-shirt set for more than a year now. Shying away from large floral suit sets, I looked for something on the neutral side, because of practicality. I found it in the form of a Zara basic skirt-shirt combo, and it was love. The simple black-and-white print seemed like a subtler way to get on board the possibly fleeting trend. Paired with a few bright accessories, I think it will be one of my favorite professional-ish looks I so often find myself in need of. For those not convinced by the statement-making potential of an all-over print, there are more subtle ways to try this trend. A striped blazer and similarly striped legging would be a more doable matching print option – pair with a chunky bootie and dainty jewelry, and call it a day. Another way to try the matchy-matchy trend is to match your shoe to your bag. This isn’t just for the dowdy. A bright red bag and shoe screams confidence and class. Maybe you’ll wait until the corporate world forces a skirt suit set on your wardrobe. Or you can take the bull by the horns and choose to match on your own time. In 2014. Because it’s trendy.
The key to a matching print is a proportioned silhouette and coordinating accessories.
Get on Board Join us on
Wednesday, January 15th
from
5:00pm - 9:00pm
(Ferguson Center 1st-3rd Floors)
for our annual Spring involvement fair! You don’t want to miss it.
Sponsored by The Source
SPRING 2014 LOCK-IN EDITION Free Food • Involvement Opportunities • Door Prizes • Karaoke • Crafts
p.9
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
UA students teach science after school Discovery Buddies provides elementary children with college mentors Photos Courtesy of Joe Biggs Jr., Discovery Buddies Discovery Buddies supports the push for science pgroams in schools like Matthews Elementary that otherwise lack the resources. By Tara Massouleh | Staff Reporter At Matthews Elementary, “elephant toothpaste,” a thick foam caused by the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, is helping bring together college students and elementary school students through the Discovery Buddies program – all in the name of science. Every Monday and Tuesday, 45 University of Alabama undergraduate students pair up with elementary school students and lead hands-on science experiments for Matthews’ after-school program. Monica Brint, a junior majoring in biology, said she came up with the idea to start Discovery Buddies while volunteering at Matthews as a ballet teacher during her sophomore year. “I was talking to some of the students there, and they thought it was really cool that I wanted to be a doctor,” she said. “They didn’t know anyone else who worked in science, and I think it’s important for them to know that it’s an option. I think that’s what Discovery Buddies does; it gives them that option.” Brint said she took her initial idea of connecting pre-med students with students at Matthews to the school’s after-school coordinator as well as the University’s Alpha Epsilon Delta Pre-Health Honor Society and was met with enthusiasm on both ends. The program is funded by Tuscaloosa’s One Place, a nonprofit organization that
When a second grader excitedly runs up to you in the hallway and asks, ‘Are we doing science today?,’ nothing can beat that feeling. — Andrew Davis
works with many Tuscaloosa elementary schools and also sponsors the Al’s Pals program, which pairs elementary school students with college mentors in a similar fashion. In working with Tuscaloosa’s One Place, the Discovery Buddies program fulfills part of the grant requirement to emphasize science in Matthews’ after-school program. Brint said Discovery Buddies supports the push for science programs in schools like Matthews that lack resources and also helps students to view science in a more positive light. “I think Discovery Buddies can reiterate what they are already learning in class, and also help get them interested in science by showing them that it can be cool and fun and that it’s not just memorizing facts,” Brint said. Lauren Hackworth, a sophomore major-
ing in geology who volunteers as a student leader for Discovery Buddies, said she thinks the program is helping students to appreciate science in ways that they otherwise might not in a traditional classroom setting. “The fact that they aren’t tested on the material we teach gives them the chance to not worry so much about the information but instead just enjoy and understand the experiments,” she said. While the students at Matthews certainly benefit from having positive role models who help them to increase their knowledge and understanding of science, the Discovery Buddies college mentors stand to gain just as much from the program. Through Discovery Buddies, college students who hope to work in the science field develop the ability to effectively explain simple scientific concepts and also gain experience working with the greater Tuscaloosa community to broaden their perspectives on the world. Andrew Davis, a sophomore majoring in geology and one of Discovery Buddies’ student leaders, said seeing the amazement in the eyes of the second-graders after the elephant toothpaste experiment was priceless and rewarding beyond anything he had experienced before. “I can confidently say that after every experiment the entire second grade class has chimed in saying that they loved the experiment and can’t wait for next week,” he said. “It’s those little things that make it
worthwhile. When a second grader excitedly runs up to you in the hallway and asks, ‘Are we doing science today?,’ nothing can beat that feeling.” In just one semester, students at Matthews have already gotten the chance to get their hands dirty making silly putty, elephant toothpaste and models of the human heart. As the program is going into its second semester, Brint hopes to expand Discovery Buddies to more elementary schools and get more UA students from different majors involved. Discovery Buddies is currently accepting applications for new mentors. Stephen Secor, associate professor in the biology department and Discovery Buddies’ faculty advisor, said his interest in biology at an early age has come to influence how he views the natural world. He said he feels it is crucial that children learn about science at an early age through programs like Discovery Buddies so they will continue to recognize the importance of science later in life. Secor said he hopes Discovery Buddies will serve as a model for UA students to venture into the community to help improve the educational experiences of younger students. “For both the college students and the students at Matthews, this can be a lifechanging experience as UA students may now consider careers in teaching and spark for the elementary students a lifelong passion for science,” he said.
p.10
Wednesday, January 15, 2013
Bama Art Ho use Film Series: w e i v e r p g n i r Sp
n e v e s n e e r c s o t t e 1 s 2 e l . u n a d J e h g c n i s t r H a t A s B s m l fi t n e d n e p e d in
MCT Campus Photo Illustration by Phoebe Rees From comedies to dramas, the Tuscaloosa Arts Council strives to show a diverse selection of films requested by the community and winners from recent festivals.
By Dylan Walker | Contributing Writer
The Arts and Humanities Council of Tuscaloosa screens independent films at the Bama Theatre every Tuesday as part of the Bama Art House Film Series. Individual tickets are $7 general admission, $6 for students and seniors and $5 for Arts Council members. Instead of season passes, attendees can now purchase punch cards for $50, good for any 10 movies. Films will begin at 7:30 p.m, and the box office opens at 6:30 p.m. Sandra Wolfe, executive director of the Arts Council, said a committee consisting of members of the council’s Board of Directors and the Bama Theatre manager choose the films for each series. They show films requested by the community and award winners from recent festivals. “It’s a balancing act,” Wolfe said. “We look at what’s playing in the Hollywood 16 theaters, and what people who attend the movies are asking for, and then we try to get the newest films that we can.”
PLAN TO GO ENOUGH SAID, JAN. 21 In this smart comedy, Julia Louis-Dreyfus plays Eva, a divorcee preparing for an empty nest as her daughter leaves for college. She meets Albert, played by James Gandolfini, another divorcee with an empty nest, and they begin a romance. However, Eva begins to question her relationship when she finds out that Albert is the bitterly despised ex-husband of her new friend, Marianne.
KILL YOUR DARLINGS, JAN. 28 Based on true events, this drama features Daniel Radcliffe as young Allen Ginsberg in the 1940s. Ginsberg, a student at Columbia University, encounters friendship, love, murder and deception in a whirlwind experience that kick-starts his writing career.
A TOUCH OF SIN, FEB. 4 This Chinese crime drama depicts four storylines across rural and urban China, all based on true events. Each plot revolves around crime, violence and the sins of the modern era. This film, written and directed by Jia Zhangke, won Best Screenplay at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival.
IN A WORLD, FEB. 11 Lake Bell writes, directs and stars in this comedy about Carol, a young vocal coach breaking into the voiceover business under the shadow of her father’s fame. When a temporary track goes Hollywood, Carol faces many challenges – of them, her own father.
THE BEST OFFER, FEB. 18 A romantic mystery directed by Giuseppe Tornatore, “The Best Offer” tells of Virgil Oldman, played by Geoffrey Rush, a high-end auctioneer in Europe, as he becomes fixated with his newest client, a secretive young heiress. With his friend and mechanic, Robert, Oldman tries to pursue the heiress.
UNA NOCHE, FEB. 25 Raul, a young man in Havana, plans to escape to Miami after he is accused of assault, enlisting his friend Elio to help him cross the 90 miles to freedom. The boys’ story unfolds over the course of one eventful day, narrated in part by Lila, Elio’s twin sister who stays in Cuba.
WADJDA, MARCH 11 In the first feature film written and directed by a Saudi woman, Haifaa Al-Mansour tells the story of Wadjda, a young Saudi girl who is fixated on buying a green bicycle, a toy not thought suitable for proper girls. To earn money for the bike, Wadjda competes in a school Quran recitation.
p.11
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Five quarterbacks compete for spot FOOTBALL FROM PAGE 1
According to 247Sports, Alec Morris, a three-star, pro-style prospect, redshirted his freshman year but only got on the field this year for a handful of plays against Chattanooga, where he only handed the ball off. The Allen, Texas, native was thought to be the incumbent because his style more fits Saban quarterbacks in the past, but wasn’t able to show what he could do in
any game. The Crimson Tide could look to a trio of redshirt freshmen for its next signal caller. Four-star Cooper Bateman and three-star Parker McLeod both enrolled last January as part of the 2013 recruiting class and took a redshirt this season. Luke Del Rio, the son of Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio, turned down scholarship offers from Oregon State, Oklahoma State and UCLA to walk on at Alabama this year. Of the three, Del Rio appears to be the front-runner, as
This offseason is going to be big for all of us. Let the best man win. — Luke Del Rio
he traveled as the fourth quarterback to road games this season behind Morris and Sims. “I really just worked hard every day,� Del Rio said. “I don’t know specifically [why I traveled], you’d have
to ask the coaches. I just did the best I could when I got here in January, tried to learn the playbook and protections and tried to separate myself. ‌ I think I can execute the offense well. Obviously I have a lot to improve on. This offseason is going to be big for all of us. Let the best man win.� Alabama also might get some help via transfer. Jacob Coker, a redshirt sophomore at Florida State this season, lost out on the Seminoles’ starting quarterback job to eventual Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston. The
MARKETPLACE
RATES
How to place a classified: For classified line ads visit www.cw.ua.edu and click on the classifieds tab. For classified display ads “When other jewelers say no, Tom says yes�
HOUSING 2 Nice Lofts Downtown: 2 bedroom, 1 bath Available: August $950/$1150 (205)752-9020-or-(205)657-3900
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Flashcards.com free online flashcard maker. It allows you to study any topic, any time, online. Create as many card decks and cards as you need to study the topics important to you.
NEED HELP STUDYING? Cool-
two years of eligibility left. He declined to comment to Feldman on speculation that he may transfer after he graduates. Regardless, Alabama will have plenty of options to work with when it gets back on the field for spring practice. “It’s exciting. I came here for that reason,� Del Rio said. “I turned down scholarships for that reason. For the opportunity to compete, to have the opportunity to start, but nothing’s in place yet. We have to compete in the spring, compete in the fall and see who starts.�
$1.25 for the first 5 words, $0.25 for every additional word A border around your ad is an additional $0.50 per ad
IN THE
call (205) 348-7355 or email cwclassmgr@gmail.com for a free consultation. The Crimson White is published four days a week (M, T, W, TH). Each classified line ad must run for a minimum of four days and include no less than 16 words.
Mobile, Ala., native went to AJ McCarron’s high school, was a Crimson Tide fan growing up and turned down a UA scholarship offer to sign with Florida State. He has drawn rave reviews from the Florida State coaching staff. Seminoles quarterback coach Randy Sanders, who has been working with quarterbacks since the 1980s, told CBSSports. com’s Bruce Feldman that Coker has “probably the best (arm) I’ve seen in 25 years at throwing it.� Coker is scheduled to graduate from FSU this spring and could play right away with
DISCOUNTS:
5% off for 4 issues - 10% off for 8 issues - 15% off for 16 issues
DEADLINES: Classified line ad deadline is the previous business day by 4:00 p.m.
Tom’s Jewelry Repair Like on Facebook & get a free cleaning! Jewelry Sales
Sudoku
2300 McFarland Blvd East (205) 758-2213
HOROSCOPES Today’s Birthday (01/15/14). This is the perfect year to build physical stamina, endurance and energy. Show that fitness off at abundant parties and gatherings, especially before your career gets busy (around 2/19). A personal transformation flowers around 7/16, and you align financial infrastructure and career to that. Love deepens your spiritual and philosophical discoveries. Share them. To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging. Aries (March 21-April 19) -- Today is a 6 -- Abundance returns. You’ve got everything you need. Don’t gamble now. Your home provides peaceful sanctuary. Use what you’ve just learned and choose appropriate tools. Then pass on your knowledge to another. Taurus (April 20-May 20) -Today is a 5 -- Research before spending more money. Don’t try to buy love; it’s expensive and doesn’t work. Consider the consequences. Take a trip. You’re learning through experience. Seek expert assistance. New opportunities arise. Bide your time. Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is a 7 -- Follow your dream. Revise your spending and strategic plan. Previous actions provide results. Make sure you got what was promised. There are financial matters to discuss. A lucky break blesses you. Don’t play favorites. Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Take a practical path. Co-workers tell you the score. Take off in a new direction. Confidently build short-term income. Emotional energy eases. Good friends understand the circumstances. Bake until done and share. Practice restraint. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is a 6 -- You’re onto something. Dig into the books. Organize your notes. March past old barriers. Consider your cash situation. If you’re going to be late, call. Postpone a romantic interlude. Explain later. Ignore detractors. Capture brilliance. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- To-
day is a 7 -- Circumstances could prove tumultuous. Someone doesn’t do what he or she promised. Some explaining may be necessary. Listen, and get a new promise. Don’t shop until the check clears. You have more than you expected anyway. Schedule carefully. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Maintain objectivity. You have everything you need to succeed, and more. Romance takes over. Get practical in private. You have nothing to be jealous about. Be patient. Put an agreement into practice. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -Today is a 7 -- Do the research. Think everything over carefully before taking action, even if someone is pressuring you. There’s no need to talk about it. Make inquiries to get the facts. Take a long walk and consider. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is a 6 -- Identify the major barrier to success. Take the philosophical high road, even if it’s longer. A female lays the groundwork. You’ve got the right stuff. Devise a plan. Work together. Finish up a project. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 6 -- Insist on a contract in writing. Doublecheck the data. A female fills in the blanks. Do your share of the work. Start by finishing an old project. Plan to re-organize your nest. Make it cozy. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -Today is a 6 -- Compromise is possible, although still elusive. You can have abundance. Defend your position. Negotiate face to face. Write an action list. Jealousies could erupt, so sidestep them. You’re gaining status and strength. Review the instructions. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -Today is a 6 -- Don’t lose focus. There’s another way to solve your problem, and the stakes are interesting. Update equipment. Listen to considerations. Everyone vies for your attention, including someone who thinks the job is easy. Withhold judgment. Encourage optimism.
Public Intoxication? Minor in Possession? Driving Under Influence?
Randal S. Ford, Esq. (205) 759-3232 www.tuscaloosacourt.com
“No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.�
Leasing NOW & Fall! 1HZN¡V H[SUHVV &DIH %UXPILHOG¡V 5HVWDXUDQW DUH QRZ KLULQJ FDVKLHUV VHUYHUV EDUWHQGHUV OLQH FRRNV &RPSHWLWLYH ZDJHV HPSOR\HH PHDO GLVFRXQWV &DOO WR VHW XS DQ LQWHUYLHZ
1HZN¡V %UXPILHOG¡V
1, 2, & 3 Bedrooms
Minutes from Campus & Malls
*Monitored Security System
*Gas Logs/Fireplaces *Tanning Beds
R MPE U B R to CARE E P BUM TAL CAR TO
Fitness Center; 2 Resor t Pools
205-556-8411
Onsite Management
TIDE DISCOUNTS 12% OFF
3201 Hargrove Road East
205-554-1977 palisadesapthomes.com
up to $100 Mention Crimson White when you drop off car. Other terms apply.
3017 McFarland Blvd
p.12 Marc Torrence | Editor sports@cw.ua.edu
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
TRACK AND FIELD
Alabama to start indoor season By Caroline Gazzara | Staff Reporter A new semester, a new season and a new batch of recruits round out what members of the Alabama track and field team hope to be the start of an impressive indoor season. After nearly two months of training, the Crimson Tide will head to Birmingham on Saturday for the Auburn Invitational. Coach Dan Waters said he is excited to get the season underway. “Of course we have been training and preparing for a long time now,” Waters said. “We’ve been in our in-season mode since the middle of October, and we’ve been in conditioning phases since the day we got back to school. The team is extremely excited to get going and get started.” Thirteen teams will compete against Alabama this weekend, including many SEC schools like Georgia and Mississippi State. Fifth-year senior Alexis Paine said the team is ready to start the season. “We worked all through the fall,” Paine said. “We pretty much have the basics down for the spring semester. Mentally, I’ve done this for a while, so I kind of just go with
everything. You have to keep your concentration for the first meet. You have to get over the first meet jitters.” The Crimson Tide also competed in the Auburn Invitational last year. Waters said this will be a good way to see how far the team has come and where the new recruits are now. Waters said he is expecting a bigger stride from last season to now. “First of all, we just want to take a look at some of the new people we have,” Waters said. “Obviously we have a big group of young athletes, and this will be the first time they are wearing the Alabama uniform, so we want to see how they respond to a competitive situation, and of course we want to build off of where we left last year. Since we had this exact meet last year, we can kind of use this as a measuring stick to see how we have progressed in our training and progressed in our technical work over the last year.” Waters recruited three new athletes for the 2014 season, including Tony Brown II, Dominique Kimpel and Jacopo Lahibi. Brown was also a five-star cornerback recruit, according to 247Sports, and enrolled
at Alabama in January. He will play football in addition to running track at Alabama. However, he will not compete this weekend. “He’s probably going to come with us. But he’s not going to compete until the Kentucky competition the following weekend,” Waters said. “Coming in from high school and not being with us all fall and training with us, we’re just being very careful with him. He’s obviously a sure count, but we want to be sure he’s ready to compete. You just need to be very careful with athletes, especially ones of his caliber.” Though it’s just the beginning of the season, Waters said he expects the most his athletes can give; the team’s competitive spirit is already showing. “We talk about competitive nature at every single team meeting, and it’s one of the things I’m very proud of when we compete each time,” Waters said. “We teach that to them and to take every opportunity as they come and to have the right mindset to go out there and compete, do what the coaches ask them to do and make the very most it. If we continue on with that path and that process, I think we are going to be very successful.”
SPORTSIN BRIEF White tweets he will return Junior wide receiver DeAndrew White said on Twitter that he will return to Alabama for his senior year. There had been speculation that White could be the fifth junior to declare for the draft, but he tweeted on Tuesday “I’m not going to the nfl draft this year I am staying for my senior year.” Safety Vinnie Sunseri is reportedly still deciding on his future.
Gymnastics duo honored A pair of Alabama gymnasts were honored by the SEC following the Crimson Tide’s 197.15193.425 season-opening win over Missouri on Friday. Senior Kim Jacob was named SEC Gymnast of the Week after she tied a career high on the allaround with a 39.525. Freshman Katie Bailey was named SEC Freshman Gymnast of the Week. Bailey posted a 39.325 in the all-around, which led the country among freshmen.
Lacy wins rookie of the year Former Alabama running back Eddie Lacy was chosen as the NFL’s rookie of the year by the Pro Football Writer’s Association. Lacy rushed 284 times for 1,178 yards and 11 touchdowns in his first season in the NFL.
MEN’S BASKETBALL
Crimson Tide hopes to defend streak By Sean Landry | Staff Reporter When the Alabama basketball team hosts Mississippi State in Coleman Coliseum Wednesday, it will be looking to defend a conference-high 13-game SEC home-court winning streak. The Crimson Tide has not lost to a conference opponent at home since Feb. 14, 2012, when it lost 61-52 to Florida. Despite this streak and a 24-2 record at home against league competition since 2011, coach Anthony Grant is prepared for a tough matchup against the 11-4 Bulldogs. “In two SEC games, they’re 1-1. I think they played very well in both games and had opportunities to win,” Grant said. “They’re playing at a really good tempo, creating a lot of transition opportunities with the way they defend, so it should be a good matchup with their style of play versus our style of play.” CW | Pete Pajor Both defenses force turnovers, with Trevor Releford leads the SEC and is ranked No. Mississippi State averaging a league-high 9.6 10 nationally in steals per game.
steals per game and Alabama ranking third at 8.1. Alabama’s Trevor Releford leads the conference and is ranked No. 10 nationally in steals, averaging 2.6 per game and 4.5 in his last four games. In many ways, the senior guard has been the Crimson Tide’s most valuable player, leading the team in scoring. “I think he’s been pretty consistent this season,” Grant said. “That’s the thing we want all our guys to strive for – that consistency.” Opposite Releford will be sophomore Craig Sword, who averages 2.3 steals per game, good for fifth in the conference. Sword, an Alabama native, averages 14.7 points per game for the Bulldogs. “Craig’s done a great job for his team,” Grant said. Beyond the guards, Alabama will look for forward Shannon Hale to spark the offense. The freshman is averaging 15.5 points per game in conference play and has been a talisman for the
PLAN TO GO WHAT: Alabama vs. Mississippi WHEN: 7 p.m. WHERE: Coleman Coliseum RECORDS: Alabama (7-8, 1-1 SEC), Mississippi State (11-4, 1-1 SEC) Crimson Tide in the last two games. Junior guard Levi Randolph said he has been impressed with Hale’s growth. “He’s a great player, and he’s learning every day,” Randolph said. “With these games and practices, he’s gaining more confidence and is able to help us on both offensive and defensive ends.” Alabama will be looking to improve in conference play after going 6-7 against nonconference opponents.