01.21.15 The Crimson White

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015 VOLUME 121 | ISSUE 76

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SERVING THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA SINCE 1894

Doobie ‘Doghouse’ Wilson

7 New Dining Site

12 Track & Field

A UA chemical engineering professor on weekdays, Alan Lane becomes Doobie “Doghouse” Wilson on the weekends when he plays blues and folk at Alabama clubs and open mics. Lane has released two albums since 2010.

Bama Dining celebrated the grand opening of Presidential Terrace Market, a new student dining facility which has been operational since October, Tuesday night at Presidential Terrace.

Following its success at the Auburn Invitational, the University of Alabama track and field team will compete in the Vanderbilt Invitational this weekend for its second week on the road.

w o l g y h t l a He

CW / Pete Pajor

A UA study shows sitting around a campfire may provide health benefits. Nearby campsites and equipment available from the Outdoor Rec make winter camping more accessible. See page 6.

SPORTS | FOOTBALL

Linebacker arrested for domestic violence Anderson held on $500 bond for crime

By Sean Landry | Assistant Sports Editor

Alabama junior linebacker Ryan Anderson was arrested Tuesday morning for misdemeanor domestic violence in the

third degree.

Anderson was arrested by the Tuscaloosa Police Department and booked into the Tuscaloosa County Jail where he was held on $500 bond, according to the Tuscaloosa Sheriff Department.

At the time of publication, Anderson had not been released.

According to the Alabama

Code of law, domestic violence in the third degree is a charge added to a number of misdemeanor offenses when “the victim is a current or former spouse, parent, child, any person with whom the defendant has a child in common, a present or former household member, or a person who has or had a

INSIDE briefs 2 news 3 opinions 4 culture 8 sports 12

dating or engagement relationship with the defendant.”

The arrest also includes a charge for criminal mischief, one of the misdemeanors included in the definition for domestic violence in the third degree.

Misdemeanor criminal mischief SEE ANDERSON PAGE 2

Ryan Anderson Tuscaloosa Sheriff’s Department

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WEDNESDAY January 21, 2015

SCENE ON CAMPUS The Oscar Mayer Wiener Mobile drives around campus playing the Oscar Mayer theme song. CW / Beth Lindly

P.O. Box 870170 Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Newsroom: 348-6144 | Fax: 348-8036 Advertising: 348-7845

EDITORIAL editor-in-chief Andy McWhorter editor@cw.ua.edu

managing editor Tara Massouleh

TODAY’S EVENTS

CAMPUS BRIEFS

Art exhibit

University Programs to hold ‘Je suis Charlie’ discussion

WHAT: Juvenile-in-Justice: Photographs by Richard Ross WHEN: 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

WHERE: 103 Garland Hall, Sarah Moody Gallery of Art

visuals editor Sloane Arogeti online editor Beth Lindly opinions editor Patrick Crowley chief copy editor Peyton Shepard news editor Rachel Brown culture editor Reed O’Mara

Art exhibit WHAT: Fishes of Alabama WHEN: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

WHERE: Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center

sports editor Kelly Ward photo editor Pete Pajor lead designer Ashley Atkinson community manager Francie Johnson

ADVERTISING advertising manager Keenan Madden 251.408.2033 cwadmanager@gmail.com

territory manager Chloe Ledet

Counseling session WHAT: TIAA-CREF Individual Counseling Sessions WHEN: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

WHERE: G54 Computer Lab, Rose Administration

205.886.3512 territorymanager@gmail.com

special projects manager Taylor Shutt 904.504.3306 osmspecialprojects@gmail.com

creative services manager Hillary McDaniel 334.315.6068

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.

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Learning seminar WHAT: How to Submit an IACUC Protocol WHEN: 10-11 a.m.

WHERE: G54 Computer Lab, Rose Administration

Campus discussion WHAT: Hot Topics: Je suis Charlie WHEN: 7-8:30 p.m.

WHERE: 313 Ferguson Student Center

CORRECTION In the Tuesday, Jan. 20 issue of The Crimson White, the article titled “Bama Rocks” reported Bama Rock Gardens is located near Interstate 11. The gardens are located near U.S. Highway 11. The Crimson White regrets this error and is happy to set the record straight.

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University Programs will host a discussion about the recent terrorist attacks in France and the international “Je suis Charlie” movement on Wednesday from 7 until 8:30 p.m. in the Ferguson Center’s Anderson Society Room. This event is free to students as a part of University Programs’ Hot Topics series, which runs once a month.

“Je suis Charlie” is a French slogan translating to, “I am Charlie.” It has been adopted by supporters of freedom of speech after the Jan. 7 attack in Paris, where 12 people were killed at the offices of the satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo.

University students who want to learn more about this incident and discuss their thoughts with peers can attend University Programs’ Hot Topics event at the Ferguson Center. These events are free and refreshments will be provided.

University Programs’ programming graduate assistant, Michelle Fowler, helps decide which topics should be discussed throughout the series. Past themes for the discussion series include Religious Discrimination, Racism: Then & Now and Social Media vs. Real Life.

University programs decides which topic is “hot” each month by taking feedback from surveys, social media and students who attend events on topics they would like to talk about, Fowler said.

“After attending the ‘Je suis Charlie’ event, we hope students learn about the issue itself as well as positive ways to converse with others about the topic,” she said.

Compiled by Katie Bedrich

Alabama director of player personnel leaving for South Alabama Tyler Siskey, Alabama football’s director of player personnel, is leaving to take the receivers coaching job at South Alabama, BamaOnLine reported on Tuesday.

Siskey was at Alabama for two years. He previously worked at Ole Miss as the coordinator of

recruiting development and spent four seasons at Arkansas State as the wide receivers coach.

Alabama Athletics did not respond to request for comment at the time of publication.

Compiled by Kelly Ward

Alabama baseball to scrimmage next three weekends in Hoover Before the start of its 2015 season on Feb. 13, Alabama baseball will scrimmage the next three weekends in Hoover at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium. This weekend, the team will scrimmage Friday at 4 p.m., Saturday at 1 p.m. and Sunday

at 2 p.m. The scrimmages are free and open to the public.

Football player allegedly kicked girlfriend’s vehicle

from property damage to Sierra Nicole Patterson’s car. Patterson was also arrested during the incident and charged with the same crime.

“Tuscaloosa Police Officers responded to a domestic dispute call in the 1300 Block of 17th Ave at approximately 11:28 pm on 1/19/15,” the statement read. “Upon arrival officers spoke with both parties who were on scene. After speaking to both parties and witnesses it was determined that Sierra Patterson and Orlando Anderson got into an argument in the yard. Patterson keyed and threw change at Anderson’s vehicle and then Anderson kicked Patterson’s vehicle.

Both vehicles had visible damage to them.”

ANDERSON FROM PAGE 1 is a property-related charge that occurs when a person “with intent to damage property, and having no right to do so or any reasonable ground to believe that he or she has such a right, inflicts damages to property in an amount that ... does not exceed $2,500.”

The Tuscaloosa Police Department released a statement on Anderson’s arrest, clarifying the charges as stemming

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3 Proprietary cards provide credit alternative Editor | Rachel Brown Newsdesk@cw.ua.edu Wednesday, Janaury 21, 2015

By Heather Buchanan | Staff Reporter

Credit history has become a big factor in one’s ability to make large purchases or apply for a job. But with no previous history, some young adults struggle to qualify for even a single foundational card.

For those who encounter this problem, store credit cards – or proprietary cards – may be the answer.

“In terms of what we call the underwriting standards, the ability to get a store card in many cases is easier than getting a credit card,” said Robert McLeod, a finance professor and a John S. Bickley Faculty Fellow. “Students who are just starting out, for example, may find it easier to establish credit by getting a card from a merchant or a gas company card. Once they establish credit, it’d be easier to get a conventional credit card.”

With hundreds of options available, McLeod said those looking to get a proprietary card need to consider a few things before making the leap to plastic. Personal spending habits may dictate the success one has in using a credit card of any kind, especially if the card is linked to a favorite store.

“There’s this potential for overspending with any card, so the fact that you have it and it’s at a store that you frequent could result in you spending a little bit more than if you actually reached into your pocket and got out the cash and start counting it out,” he said.

He also said customers should weigh the benefits from a store credit card against their shopping habits at that store, since they might be tempted to spend more at a location if they have a credit card

and discounts tied to it.

“Even if you do pay [the balance] off at the end of the month in full and there’s no interest charged on there, your actual expenditures as a consumer over the years may be actually higher than they should be,” McLeod said.

This fear of overspending deters some shoppers from applying for plastic at all. Grace Cunningham, a senior majoring in kinesiology, said the consequences of a potential spontaneous shopping spree influenced her to avoid a credit card.

“I don’t have a credit card because I don’t want to be tempted into going into a shopping frenzy,” she said. “I’m careful about my money, but I just want to make sure that I’m in a steady position before I have a credit card.”

To fight overspending, McLeod suggested marking purchases in a checkbook to keep up with money spent and to know one’s balance after a charge will be paid off.

McLeod said interest rates and the contract as a whole are two other factors shoppers should investigate closely before committing to a card. He said interest rates on proprietary cards are generally higher than a conventional bank card, but if the balance is paid off on time, every time, then the interest rate shouldn’t be a major factor. He also said some contracts offer a “grace period” before interest begins to build, while others simply start charging from the moment of purchase.

“So if you have a choice, you’d rather have one that has a grace period where no interest accrues, no interest is charged until after a

certain date so you have the opportunity to pay it off in full before any interest is assessed,” he said.

Many stores offer credit cards with added discounts to establish customer loyalty. Retailers will often offer a percentage off an entire purchase for each card swipe. In addition, some store credit cards have point systems where customers can build up rewards.

Target is unique in that they offer a debit card, which ties directly to an existing checking account.

“It comes straight out of my Regions account, so that’s why I liked it,” said Shelby Brooks, a first-year graduate student studying chemical engineering. “Instead of just swiping my regular card I get to save a little bit of money.”

Brooks’ two-year employment at Target played a role in her decision to get a Target debit card. The 5 percent savings with the debit or credit cards are stackable, so Brooks said she was able to use her employee discount, the REDcard savings and additional coupons on things she already bought at Target.

The proprietary debit card might become a more popular option in the future, as it offers a way for customers to receive benefits without committing to a card with interest rates and other fees.

Lauren Nida, a senior majoring in advertising and communication studies with a Target debit card, said she thought it was a good move for Target.

“I think more companies should get a debit card [program] because then customers get a discount but they don’t have to have interest or worry about paying it off,” she said.

Young adults struggle to qualify for credit cards due to having no previous credit history. CW / Layton Dudley

Visits to University Recreation increase in new year

By Danielle Waddell | Contributing Writer

Each January, there are students who create New Year’s resolutions in hopes of becoming a healthier person in the upcoming year. The year of 2015 has proven to be no different.

Michael Blackman, general manager at Planet Fitness, said attendance almost doubled in the new year.

Blackman said he thinks the increase is due to New Year’s resolutions and fitness goals, and these goals and resolutions may be in response to common distractions, such as the holidays and traveling.

George Brown, executive director of University Recreation, said University Recreation saw an 8.35 percent increase for all University of Alabama recreational facilities during the first 10 days of the spring term compared to the same 10-day period in the fall.

“Participation at [Student Activity

The New Year’s resolutions are in full swing, which means the busiest time of the year for the student recreational center. CW / Hanna Curlette

Center at Presidential Village] increased from 9,720 in fall 2014 to 11,757 in spring 2015 which is 2,037 more visits or 20.9 percent,” he said.

This marks the highest recorded participation to date.

“While University Recreation cannot predict the enrollment growth of The University of Alabama moving forward, it is not unrealistic that we will see reports of over 50,000 action card visits across all facilities during these first

10-day periods in the future,” Brown said. “This would, of course, equate to a very impressive 5,000 visits per day recognition.”

Jamie Cormier, co-owner of CrossFit Candor, said her gym gained 24 new ON RAMP beginner members in 2015, which is a significantly larger class compared to the usual eight to 10 members.

The ON RAMP program is designed for athletes who are new to the CrossFit program. The class provides a place for beginners to learn the necessary movements and skills used in CrossFit. “There is no requirement for any athlete entering the program,” Cormier said. “Whether you’ve been an athlete your whole life or never worked out before, the ON RAMP and any CrossFit class is modified to your ability and comfort zone.”

Cormier said she hopes to see the membership increases continue throughout the year.

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Editor | Patrick Crowley Letters@cw.ua.edu Wednesday, January 21, 2015

COLUMN | POLITICS

Polarization not a source for joking

MARY CATHERINE

Connors Staff Columnist

Tribune News Service

COLUMN | OSCARS

America deserves more diverse Oscars

LEIGH

Terry Staff Columnist

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has spoken and there is not a single good movie about women or people of color.

According to the Academy’s all-knowing authority, women did not star in great movies this year, and they certainly didn’t make any. There are also zero good directors or actors of color.

I guess the white men of the “Best Actor” category and the other white men of the “Best Director” category make the best movies in Hollywood, bar none. Everyone else should just go home.

While I don’t think any of the above is true, it is extremely disturbing that this is the message the Academy has sent this year.

They have told us and the moviewatching children of America that there are still boys’ clubs in the country where women and minorities need not apply, and they have done so in spite of ample evidence that their

prejudices are wrong. indelible mark on history. They “Gone Girl” was one of the were not the characters the most highly anticipated and high- Oscars like to reward: slaves, abuest grossing films of the year, sive parents, maids, laborers and yet the Academy felt no need to corrupt villains. Nor was the direcreward this movie tor of “Selma,” about a complex Ava DuVernay, and terrifying who made the ... there are still boys’ movie a sweepfemale protagonist with a “Best ing epic in spite clubs in the country Picture” or “Best of a meager $20 Director” nominamillion budget, a where women and tion. In fact, only member of the old minorities need not one of the women Hollywood guard. nominated for The Academy’s apply ...

“Best Actress” is failings are disapin a movie nomipointing because nated for “Best Picture,” and that of the message they send about woman, Felicity Jones, plays sec- racial and gender progress in ond fiddle to Eddie Redmayne in America and because of the “The Theory of Everything.” younger generation of aspiring In a more saddening fact, not actors and filmmakers who will a single person of color is nomi- watch this year’s awards and see nated in an acting category for the no one “like them.” We deserve a first time since 1998. While there better Academy, one that doesn’t should certainly be more than see last year’s win for “12 Years two Oscar-worthy movies about a Slave” as compensation for people of color made in a year, the snubbing “Selma,” and one that fact that “Get On Up” and “Selma” can find a female-led film since were made and snubbed is signifi- “Million Dollar Baby” as captivatcant. These snubs are significant ing as the public does. We deserve not just for the color of the char- a better Hollywood. acters and crew behind them but because of the people they depictLeigh Terry is a junior majored: strong, complex, independent ing in economics. Her column men and women who left an runs biweekly.

EDITORIAL BOARD Andy McWhorter editor-in-chief Tara Massouleh managing editor Beth Lindly online editor

It’s big news: Taylor Swift is now being used as a pawn in the game of polarized politics. Late Friday afternoon, Speaker of the House John Boehner tweeted, “Dear Mr. President, there is no #BlankSpace in the taxpayers’ checkbook.”

The same day, the Speaker posted an entry on his website, speaker.gov. The article, “12 Taylor Swift GIFs for you,” was an attempt to install humor in the Speaker’s apparent distaste for President Barack Obama’s “America’s College Promise” plan.

The president’s plan involves offering free community college tuition to over 9 million students. According to Bloomberg, the plan will cost $10 billion over the course of 10 years. Congress would provide most of the funding while individual states would pitch in the remaining cost. There is a debate as to whether the substantial short-term financing will outweigh long-term economic gains from improvement in higher education.

The Democrats’ official Twitter account responded to the tweet with a GIF depicting Taylor Swift in her “Shake It Off” music video. Beloved Taylor was pictured with her microphone, and the caption read, “Haters gonna hate.”

It is disheartening and infuriating to see government officials joke about polarized politics, a real and debilitating factor in the 114th Congress. In fact, the Pew Research Center confirms that last year was the most polarized Congress has been in history.

Democrats are becoming more liberal, Republicans are becoming more conservative, and the potential role of independents in our government has become more of a pipe dream, although the number of independents in the American public is in fact growing.

The American people need to see compromise, agreement or even a degree of civility between the Republican and Democratic parties. We need to see effort and results, not immature stabs at the opposite side through the salty words of Taylor Swift. The tweet is only a small portion of a bigger problem.

It may seem like something to brush off for the time being, and polarization is not a secret. But how deep does it run – how much is it actually incorporated in Congress? The only thing known for sure is the Speaker of the House, a person high in the line of succession for the presidency, and the Democratic Party’s official Twitter page think a little bit of division is okay to brush off.

The replies to the tweets were diverse. Some thought the tweet was juvenile. Others thought it was hilarious and were happy that the usually serious politicians were attempting to connect with younger crowds. Reading those tweets disadvantages our young people; they learn that there are only two sides to an issue, that it is okay to joke about free education or maybe even a plan that will dig the deficit hole even deeper. There are other means to connect with teens and college students.

Who knows how Taylor Swift feels about this issue? Politicians have often teamed up with celebrities to reach larger audiences to gain support in campaigns. Maybe I’m a hater, but it’s hard to believe that the fashion in which Boehner and the Democratic Party communicated is becoming to their positions. Government officials should try to connect more with their constituency of all ages, but in a way that relays a matured and impactful message.

Mary Catherine Connors is a sophomore majoring in mathematics and economics. Her column runs biweekly.

WE WELCOME YOUR OPINIONS Sloane Arogeti visuals editor Patrick Crowley opinions editor Peyton Shepard chief copy editor

Letters to the editor must contain fewer than 300 words and guest columns fewer than 500. 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.

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OPINIONS Wednesday, January 21, 2015 COLUMN | FILM

‘American Sniper’ misses target, promotes Islamophobia in America

KYLE A.

Simpson Staff Columnist

A common sentiment I’ve heard in the past week is “Chris Kyle was a hero.” It’s true; Kyle, the subject of the Oscar-nominated biopic “American Sniper,” was a hero, along with all of the men and women who selflessly put themselves in harm’s way to fight for our country and defend our rights from those who would threaten them.

The movie also highlights his and the other soldiers’ bravery and conviction to their cause. It describes a very real struggle veterans face when they return from war, — posttraumatic stress disorder. Still, the movie glorifies our negative reactions to terrorism and seems to condemn an entire group of people for the actions of a fanatical minority.

Especially in the wake of recent terror in Europe, this portrayal is harmful and misleading. While bringing in a record-breaking $90 million on its

opening weekend, “American Sniper” The enemy in this film appears to missed an opportunity to illustrate be Islam as a whole rather than the complexities of war and instead militant Islamists. reinforced the negative responses to The movie paints the faceless Iraqis acts of terrorism. as “savages,” a word that comes from The movie is the mouth of Kyle filled with the – both the realjuxtaposition life man and the of American, one portrayed by Christian culture Bradley Cooper. with the Muslim He isn’t refer“American Sniper” consistently culture of Iraq. ring to only the dehumanizes the people who were militants as savIn the opening scenes, a war-torn ages, but the Iraqi most affected by the Iraq War – town square with people as a whole. dirty mosques, Brutal mistreatthe innocent Iraqis. a mother and ment of innocent child acting as families occurs in suicide bombers multiple scenes in and foreboding the movie. Never sounds of minain the film are we rets – which are simply peaceful made aware of the very real strugcalls to prayer – are in sequence with gles the Iraqis are having while their pristine, whitewashed churches and country is being invaded. “American wholesome American family din- Sniper” consistently dehumanizes ners. Kyle’s Bible is used as a symbol the people who were most affected in nearly every scene he kills some- by the Iraq War – the innocent Iraqis. one. The imagery it conjures goes Islam as a whole is not to blame beyond simply drawing courage from for militant terrorism. The vast his religion when things like, “I want majority of the approximately 1.6 bilyou to put the fear of God in these lion people who practice Islam had savages,” are needlessly said. nothing to do with the attacks in

Paris or New York, and they condemn the tragedies as much as we do. Holding them responsible is akin to holding all Catholics responsible for the Spanish Inquisition or all Germans responsible for the Holocaust. This foolish reaction to the actions of a few is detrimental to our society, and it was irresponsible for the people involved in “American Sniper” to paint the conflict the way they did.

A film that could have been about the bravery and excellence of our armed forces seems instead emblematic of the struggle our society is having with Islamophobia. Our country, once proud of the ethnic and cultural diversity that made it exceptional, will only be weakened by the xenophobic attitudes present in this film. “American Sniper” seems more interested in over-the-top masculinity and shortsighted patriotism than a true conversation about war, religion and the brave men and women who are navigating these issues on the battlefield.

Kyle Simpson is a sophomore majoring in biology. His column runs biweekly.

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WEDNESDAY January 21, 2015

Alabama offers many places to camp during the winter months for those interested in spending time outdoors. Spending time around campfires can lower blood pressure. CW / Pete Pajor

Experts say winter camping healthy, cheap Rec Center offers gear

Campfires aid blood pressure, study says

By Nick Privitera | Contributing Writer

By Laura Testino | Assistant Culture Editor

sets, a sleeping bag rated for 20-degree weather and For those fond of out- a ground pad are impordoor activities like camp- tant pieces of equipment ing and backpacking, for cold-weather camping.

Alabama provides many “The pad adds extra opportunities during the insulation and elevates winter season because of you off of bumps and its milder climate. rocks,” Smith said. “Also, There are dozens of don’t hammock camp in campgrounds across the the winter. You will lose state, giving students the body heat.” opportunities for weekSmith also cautioned end camping trips at very campers to be wary of the little cost. Passes usually hunting seasons when do not cost more than a going camping, so as to few dollars. avoid the danger of being “Alabama is an all-sea- accidentally shot. son camping Students are state, with a able to rent lot of places all necessary to go,” said gear, as well I like camping Wren Smith, a as kayaks and graduate stufrom because it enables canoes, dent studying the Outdoor accounting me to get away... Rec rental and a member center at daily, of the Outdoor weekend and — Griffin Hoard — Rec staff. weekly rates.

Ac c o r d i n g “I like campto the Outdoor ing because R e c r e at i o n ’s it enables me map system, AlaBeta, to get away from everythere are at least four day life and be in a place campgrounds within where I feel comfortan hour drive from the able,” said Griffin Hoard, University. There are more a sophomore majoring campgrounds across the in American studies. state for those willing to “Another reason I like drive farther. camping is because you Talladega National always seem to get a good Forest, which is separated story out of it.” into two areas, offers nice Hoard said he enjoys camping with great views, several camping areas Smith said. north of Birmingham, as When camping in the well as Lake Lurleen State winter, Smith said it is Park, citing the trails and essential to bring the prop- views of the landscapes as er gear. A tent, cooking the biggest draws.

Campfires contribute more than heat and the ideal marshmallow roasting conditions – the flickering orange and gold flames also lower blood pressure, according to a research study conducted by Christopher Lynn.

Lynn, an assistant professor of anthropology, published his research in an article appearing in Evolutionary Psychology’s fifth and final issue of 2014. Lynn began teaching at the University in 2009 and started conducting research on the subject in 2010.

The idea for the study arose after Lynn read an article in graduate school suggesting campfires were linked to the existence of relaxation and stress-reducing practices in the human health repertoire. Lynn wanted to provide evidence to solidify the assumption that fire is relaxing. The first step in the research process was to identify which element of the fire is most relaxing, he said.

“I thought, because we are primarily a visual species and the largest neural network is devoted to our vision, and hypnosis is generally induced by watching things, that it was the flickering light that would be the hypnotic piece of [the fire],” Lynn said. “So we decided to isolate that, and our first iteration of the study was simply a visual fire with no sound.”

To test this, Lynn invited participants to stare at a screen with a picture of a fire and a blank screen for five minutes each. The order of each screen was randomized. In the second study, Lynn added a third condition to include a five-minute section of a fire with sound. The third study increased

the time increment to 15 minutes, and the blank screen was swapped for an upside down picture of fire, without sound.

While the participants felt that sitting without anything to do for five or 15 minutes was relaxing, sitting still and staring at a screen for 45 minutes during the third study became more annoying than relaxing, Lynn said.

“Most of [the participants] felt that they were not relaxed by any of [the conditions]. The way we tested it is we took heart rate before and after each condition,” Lynn said. “And what we found is that in the fire with sound, people’s heart rate, on average, decreased in a statistically meaningful and significant way.”

Using this data, Lynn was able to confirm campfires were relaxing in a meaningful way. The evidence suggests relaxing by fires had effects on both cognition and cooperation, potentially influencing the selection for cooperation and language.

“To keep a fire going becomes pretty important. So you need people to sit around the fire and stoke and go collect things,” he said. “In a pre-linguistic period, that would have required cooperation.”

Meghan Steel graduated last May with a degree in anthropology and worked with Lynn on the research. Steel proposed to investigate a correlation between fireside relaxation and prosociality, described by Lynn as the willingness to be around people.

“My favorite part of the process was the opportunity to present at a professional conference at which I enjoyed drawing upon the backgrounds and

specialties of several of my peers that I would otherwise never have met,” Steel said.

Lauren Pratt, a junior majoring in anthropology and interdisciplinary studies, worked in Lynn’s lab last fall and spring.

She was responsible for running experiments and managing data.

Like Steel, she appreciated the complexity of the lab, she said.

“Working in the lab showed me what doing anthropology research looks like, and that it really is science,” Pratt said.

Melinda Carr, a junior majoring in psychology and anthropology, is currently the lead research assistant in Lynn’s lab. While the first studies focused primarily on the visual elements of the fire and then eventually included some auditory elements, incorporating the element of warmth is in the works for the next study, Carr said. She is currently working with Lynn to discuss how to best execute the experiment.

“We want to do a naturalistic experiment where we actually have people sit around a campfire and we take their blood pressure and see what happens,” Carr said.

“But it is hard to control variables, so that’s something we have to talk over.”

The time of day and presence of certain hormones in the body, as well as the size and type of wood used for a fire, and the number of people around the campfire are variables that would have to be considered for this type of study, Lynn said.

Lynn said he hopes to continue his study in collaboration with the National Outdoor Leadership School and also test other ideas related to the initial study.

7 New dining spot opens

NEWS Wednesday, January 21, 2015

By Ben Jackson | Contributing Writer

The Presidential Terrace Market held its grand opening Tuesday night with live music, s’mores and an appearance

by Big Al. CW / Layton Dudley

best options for students,” said LaShana Sorrell of Bama Dining, Tuesday night at Presidential who was in charge of organizing the Terrace, students and Bama Dining event. The vendors represented comstaff gathered together for the grand panies the University deals with in its opening of the Presidential Terrace other dining ventures. Students can Market. The market, a continuation voice their opinions about the new of the University’s commitment to offerings on campusvoice.com.

“This is a really provide convenient great thing to have,” healthy options for said Joe James, a students, sits inside freshman majoring the Presidential It’s sometimes hard to fi nd in chemical engineerVillage Recreation healthy options on campus ing who attended Center, behind the the event. “You can Fuel Smoothie Store. and this makes a huge come here, workout, “Tonight is all and then have some about celebrating difference. food or a smoothmonths of hard work ie. It’s very conveputting together this — Chris Chambless — nient, especially for excellent facility,” Presidential Village said Bruce McVeagh, Residents.”

Bama Dining’s genChris Chambless, a freshman eral manager. “In the heart of a residential community, this is where majoring in marketing, said he always students come to unwind at the end seeks out healthy food options after of the day and we’re proud to have a workout.

“It’s sometimes hard to find healthy a great selection of food options options on campus and this makes a for them.”

The market has been operational huge difference,” he said.

McVeagh said emphasis is going to since late October 2014, but Tuesday night’s unveiling was accompanied be placed on healthy options.

“We’re working with new organic by live music, s’mores outside and an options as well as light meal options,” appearance by Big Al. Inside, a variety of vendors, from he said. “Not only is this healthy, it’s General Mills to Ice Coffee Co., offered an upscale environment that will attract students to spend time in an up free samples of new products.

“We’re working hard to have the already great space.”

College students face potential technology insecurity

By Ben Jackson | Contributing Writer

As students return to campus with their laptops, smartphones and tablets, some may fail to realize the risks they face with technology. Blackhat hacking, which can have destructive implications for victims, is on the rise across college campuses.

BitSight Insights, an industry standard in security ratings, released a 2014 report on collegiate cybersecurity, revealing just how vulnerable students are to attack. According to the report, “These institutions are also a gold mine of information, from faculty and student Social Security numbers to football fans’ credit card information and sensitive intellectual property.” This data, combined with a “Bring-Your-Own-Device” culture, can breed an environment ripe for hacking.

Students have a lot to lose, too.

MyBama accounts control finances, email accounts, course schedules and contain valuable personal information like Social Security numbers.

“In short, blackhat hackers could ruin your life,” said Matthew Leeds, a sophomore majoring in computer science. “It’s very important to use strong, unique passwords and difficult security questions on any service that’s important to you. You

Technology Hacks Overall security performance declines significantly during the academic school year months of September to May. The conferences see an overall 30 point drop in security ratings. This is likely due to the influx of students and devices on campus networks.

Colleges and universities are failing to adequately address security challenges, with the security ratings of athletic conferences averaging around 600. This is considerably below retail and health care, two other industries that have faced serious data breaches in the past year.

Information from BitSightTech.com. CW / Belle Newby

can accomplish this by doing variations on a base password for each domain, or using a secure password manager with a two-factor authentication enabled.”

“You could also simply use a pass phrase,” said Luke Zahorik, a freshman majoring in computer science who said he intends to specialize in cybersecurity. “Short, cryptic passwords may be harder for you to remember but they’re easier for a computer to guess. Try a full sentence instead, complete with capital letters and spaces. It’s easier to remember, and far more effective.”

Students’ myBama accounts are not their only area of weakness, however. BitSight regards malware like

Trojan viruses and Flashback as very destructive to personal computers.

“Apple computers are often at the greatest risk because of their popularity on college campuses combined with the incorrect belief that they cannot get viruses,” Zahorik said.

Zahorik said smartphones are at risk, too.

“Lots of people forget that smartphones are computers too,” he said.

Students can help protect themselves by downloading antivirus apps, such as “Lookout,” from the App Store.

While UA students face security risks online, they are better off than many other college students in the U.S. According to the BitSight report,

the SEC ranks No.3 in school security, with a score just four points lower than the Ivy League’s.

The University also uses WPA2 Wi-Fi, one of the most secure network types, Zahorik said.

“The benefit of WPA2 is that all users on the network have to have a registered login,” he said. “That way, dangerous activity can be more easily traced to an individual.”

The University of Alabama’s Office of Information Technologies posts security alerts online to keep students and faculty members aware of the most recent threats to their technology. Additional resources about cybersecurity safety can be found at oit.ua.edu/oit/security.

8 Professor doubles as musician Editor | Reed O’Mara Culture@cw.ua.edu Wednesday, January 21, 2015

By Andrew Laningham | Contributing Writer

At open mics all around Tuscaloosa and Birmingham, Alan Lane becomes Doobie “Doghouse” Wilson, playing blues and folk music at clubs in the area.

Lane, a chemical engineering professor, started playing music as a child growing up in Portland, Oregon. He did not start putting out recorded material or playing live until 2006.

“When I was about 48 years old, I decided if I didn’t start getting out into the clubs and playing before I was 50, I probably never would do it,” he said. “So I started making concerted efforts to get out to open mics and play.”

Lane said he has played almost every club between Tuscaloosa and Birmingham and has experienced some difficulties in balancing life as a professor and life as a musician.

“Most venues start about 10 [p.m.], and I usually give myself a curfew of around midnight. he said so sometimes I’ll get home later, especially if I’m playing in Birmingham.” “You can lose a little sleep like that.”

Lane released a new album in November 2014 called “Ride Alan Lane is known as Doobie “Doghouse” Wilson. CW / Layton Dudley The Bus.” Lane played all of the

instruments on the album except drums and keyboards. The album’s sound spans from early Beatles to blues. The title track, “Ride The Bus,” chronicles the story of the Freedom Riders. Lane said it is one of his favorite songs on the album.

Doobie “Doghouse” Wilson’s sophomore album, “Too Wet for Comfort” was featured on The University of Alabama radio station, WVUA-FM. He said having the album played on the radio exposed some of his students to his music.

“Students would come up to me and say, ‘Hey, I heard your song on the radio,’ and things like that he said. I also get recognized when I’m out playing open mics quite usually.”

Lane has produced an album every two years since 2010.

Each album has a different style and sound.

“I like his music,’ said Caitlin Weldon, a freshman majoirng in biology. “I think it’s really cool. I can tell that he’s a history buff just from listening to his songs. I never really thought about professors having hobbies outside of teaching.”

Doobie “Doghouse” Wilson has had quite a few opening acts, but he said one really stood out. Lane had been playing for a couple of weeks at a club in Birmingham and one night, the open mic had a famous performer.

“The club promoter came up to me and said, ‘Doobie, do you mind if we bumped you up one spot?’” Lane said. “So, I kind of knew something was going on,” Lane said. “Sure enough, right before me Taylor Hicks got up on the stage. He put on one heck of a show. He’d jump up on the bar and wail on his harmonica.

After he was finished I went up and played my set, so I jokingly say Taylor opened for me.”

When it comes to his two names, Lane had only one thing to say.

“If we’re talking about chemical engineering, you can call me Professor Lane,” he said. “If we’re talking about music, you can call me Doobie.”

COLUMN | BOOKS

Poehler’s interactive autobiography goes beyond typical life lessons

By Tori Linville

Please” fluid in movement as she touches base on her career With chapter titles like as a comic, her opinions on enti“Humping Justin Timberlake” tled old rich men, motherhood, and essays dubbed “I’m Worried what she learned on mushrooms Not Enough People Hate Me,” and ways to make apologies. it’s easy to figure out why The tone is refreshing and the Amy Poehler’s “Yes Please” book’s sections are an indicawas in the humor instead of tion of Poehler’s engaging voice. the autobiography section of The preface of “Yes Please” Books-A-Million. is Poehler whining about how The book is more like an hard it is to write a book, which interactive scrapisn’t as annoying book, including as it seems. She a section for the immediately presreader to write his ents herself not as or her own story in a successful comethe middle of the dian or actress, but From beginning to book. From beginas a lady who has the end, “Yes Please” figured out “everyning to the end, “Yes Please” is one lies about is genuine, straight genuine, straight writing.” She’s no Poehler. Its orgaPoehler. longer someone nization isn’t disthe reader doesn’t tractingly chronoknow. She’s Amy, logical, with tidbits who happens to of early life folbe apologizing lowed by dramatic for her “self-indulgent preflessons learned later like most ace.” Poehler calls herself out biographies. Sections are divid- on many of her techniques to ed by their own double-page making her story sound better. spreads with Poehler dressed While it’s obvious she’s doing it as an old woman, an ‘80s woman to downplay her whining about donned in workout clothes com- writing or her past decisions plete with leg warmers and as a about drunk driving, her acts man (including her own beard) of humility don’t scream at the smelling a rose and looking audience for attention. mighty creepy. She keeps “Yes Leaving the whining behind,

the reader is then introduced to “Instructions on How to Use This Book.” Apparently, the reader isn’t just supposed to read it. This becomes more evident as she explains the title and describes how she’s laid out the format of “Yes Please.”

Say Whatever You Want, Do Whatever You Like and Be Whoever You Are are parts one, two and three, respectively.

Poehler has bits of advice and essays through each part, but she doesn’t focus on her grandfather’s death or her divorce.

Instead she hones in on how to conduct a career as if it were “a bad boyfriend” and how to “talk to yourself like you’re 90.”

Poehler’s voice stays tenacious throughout the book. She throws in “positive ways you can scare yourself and feel alive” – a few are telling only the truth for a week or jumping out of a plane – while connecting it with new title suggestions for “Human Centipede 4.”

Opening “Yes Please” is actually more like walking down a New York sidewalk with the tiny comedian as she debriefs you on all she’s learned in her life so far. The reader is just trying to keep up with her pace. Imagine Amy Poehler as a speed walker – because she has things to do.

Amy Poehler’s autobiography and collection of essays, “Yes Please,” is interactive, including a section for the reader to write in his or her own story. Amazon.com

9

CULTURE Wednesday, January 21, 2015 COLUMN | FASHION

Job interview season does not have to mean an all-black wardrobe

By Sydney Smith

Step onto any college campus and one will see students walking around campus in ill-fitting suits and shiny new dress shoes. This is a scene that can only be described as interview season. It’s easy to hear the term “business wear” and immediately head towards an all-black wardrobe.

In reality, business dress, for both guys and girls, is an opportunity to express yourself and leave an impression with color, shape and texture.

A great way to incorporate different colors and textures is to layer. Multiple pieces made of different textiles are no longer just for casual wear. Girls generally wear a nice printed tank or collared top under their blazers. Add a few more pieces like a cardigan or second shirt before pulling on a favorite blazer or jacket. Guys should also keep this in mind and can opt for a shawl-collared sweater instead of a blazer to take some of the stiffness out of a suit.

Experimenting with color can also have a great payoff when trying to get noticed and be memorable. Leave the black at home and try

Business dress, for both guys and girls, is an opportunity to express yourself and leave an impression.

CW / Sydney Smith

out a navy or brown color scheme.

Try to stick to a palette of three colors, two darker and one lighter. This rule will liven up a look and allow for colors like green and purple to fit seamlessly into interview attire. Only own black dress pants? Don’t wear white or black on top. Instead add brightness with an unexpected color like red or

bright pink.

Dressing professionally while also making a splash is all about tradeoffs. When wearing unusual or bright colors, stick to traditional shapes and tailored fits. When using a more traditional color scheme, one can experiment with shapes and details like ruffled collars or sweater jackets and

hardware. Keep one aspect of the look familiar, but find one way to express a wow factor.

Speaking of hardware – jewelry is a great way to make a statement through fashion. Make sure the pieces add to the outfit and don’t distract from the interview content.

Sometimes a more casual ensemble can be pushed into the business formal category simply by adding some professional and clean-looking jewelry. Guys can use these same rules for tie clips or collar clips. If they feel natural and add to the look, go for it. Just don’t force a look or piece of hardware that doesn’t look cohesive and natural.

Business dress is great at showing possible employers or graduate schools that you know how to dress the part. Unfortunately it also leads to everyone looking the same and makes it difficult to be memorable.

Aim to have an interviewer not only remember your personality and wit, but also a face, which becomes easier when your appearance stands out in a good way. Stay confident and work a suit that is personalized to edge ahead during interview season.

10

CULTURE

Wednesday, January 21, 2015

Alabama Action Abroad gives students the opportunity to do service work in locations such as Costa Rica and Ecuador. Photo Courtesy of Burke Smith

Alabama Action Abroad to hold info meetings

By Peyton Shepard | CW Staff

Alabama Action Abroad is a program designed to teach students about local culture and needs of communities in South America as well as develop leadership and teamwork skills. The group organizes two week-long trips at the beginning of May – one to Costa Rica in the Talamanca Province, and a second to Ecuador that covers studies of both the Andes and the Amazon cultures.

The organization will hold information sessions Wednesday and Friday to answer questions about its 2015 trips.

Burke Smith, a senior majoring in chemical engineering and former

There’s a heightened awareness that comes with meeting these people — Burke Smith — student director for Alabama Action Abroad, said the program centers highly on community service.

“We partner with a group called Outward Bound that assigns us tasks for the local communities,” he said.

On previous trips, the group has worked with communities in Ecuador to conserve rain forests. Other service projects include

food distribution, clean-up efforts and aqueduct construction.

Joey Cooper, a junior majoring in engineering and a student director for Alabama Action Abroad, said the trips are meant to be more about service learning for the students who attend.

“Students should also expect to be selfreflective and to learn things about themselves in addition to the information provided that pertains to the daily activities of the program,” he said.

Smith said the educational value of the trip comes from learning about the culture of the area but agrees there is more to the trip than just conventional classroom learning.

“The focus isn’t so much on studying, like in study abroad programs, as it is service and serving the community in these places,” he said. “We do work to incorporate some element of education during the semester before the trip, however. There’s a heightened awareness that comes with meeting these people, learning what their culture is like and how it’s the same as yours that makes it better than traveling to study.”

Alabama Action Abroad will host two information meetings, Wednesday at 6 p.m. in 280 Nott Hall and Friday at noon in 292 Nott Hall. Information and applications can also be found at sites.google.com/site/bamaactionabroad.

COLUMN | MUSIC

Sleater-Kinney keeps breaking rules with album ‘No Cities to Love’

By Jordan Cissell

“We win, we lose. Only together do we break the rules.”

From the moment they groped and clawed their way to the top of the Pacific Northwest’s riot grrrl scene in the mid-1990s, those words – the chorus of “Surface Envy” from Sleater-Kinney’s new album “No Cities to Love” – have served as a sort of mantra for three ladies who, along with other riot grrrl mavericks like Bikini Kill and Bratmobile, made their bread and butter in kicking butt, taking names and proving once and for all that being a dude is not a prerequisite for working a guitar or a drum kit.

But it’s been 10 years since Corin Tucker, Carrie Brownstein and Janet Weiss last broke the rules together with “The Woods” in 2005, and the decade witnessed more than a handful of up-andcoming musical malefactors emerge during the hiatus. Don’t

think for a second Sleater-Kinney didn’t notice.

“Bury Our Friends” kicks off amidst layers of overdriven guitar that evoke a distorted, aggressive take on the main riff in The Black Keys’ 2010 hit “Tighten Up.” The staccato harmonies of the song’s chorus coalesce in an upward lilt over the elastic bass groove of Franz Ferdinand’s most danceable tracks.

Mostly they sound just like themselves, however. Tucker’s banshee wail hasn’t mellowed one bit. Brownstein still knows how to force a guitar, bucking and diving every step of the way, through elliptical riffs and overdriven chord sequences.

Weiss deftly maneuvers between gut-punching boom-pop power strikes and snaky coils of tightly wound groove, often in the same song. “No Cities to Love” is a relentless 33-minute vector of Sleater-Kinney cutting loose on 10 years of pure, pent-up

rock ‘n’ roll.

The aforementioned chorus of “Surface Envy” dive-bombs into a looping guitar break that chugs along underneath explosive snare crashes supported by a pulsing bass throb.

Brownstein’s fuzzed-out boll weevil of a guitar riff that bores into the meat of “A New Wave” operates in complete independence of Weiss’ demented interpretation of a classic surf rock snare-snapping drum sequence.

Brownstein’s yelp is quintessential riot grrrl, simultaneously conveying both snark and ecstasy.

On the title track, Brownstein displays a similar disregard for enunciatory consistency, vacillating between “sitties” and “citAYs” as she repeatedly yelps the titular chorus over the ironclad, watertight weave of two overlapping guitar lines.

Put this album on, and try not to nod your head. Sleater-Kinney will double dare you.

Amazon.com

11

WEDNESDAY January 21, 2015

MARKETPLACE

TODAY’SDIVERSIONS

How to place a classified: For classified line ads visit www.cw.ua.edu and click on the classifieds tab. For classified display ads 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.

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Call 205-752-1277. Email crissy@weaverrentals.com JOBS PAY OFF YOUR STUDENT LOANS!!!! StudySoup Do you take great notes in class?

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HOROSCOPES Today’s Birthday (01/21/15). Fortune smiles on partnership this year. Nurture friendships with shared fun. New financial opportunities arise after 3/20. Retrospection and clarification of your own priorities leads to a collaborative renaissance after 4/8. Begin a new educational adventure. October brings new family prosperity, despite potential for communications breakdowns. Express your love through art, words, gesture and kind actions. Grow networks. 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 7 -Teamwork powers your project, so spend extra attention on clear communications with Mercury retrograde for the next few weeks. Things can get lost in translation. Review your work over habitually. Speak what’s in your heart, straight and unvarnished.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 7 -- Review old material for new ideas over the next few weeks with Mercury retrograde. Revise your resume. Old promises could come back to haunt you. Doublecount the numbers. Advance your career by finding ways to make it more joyful.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is an 8 -- The travel bug has bitten. Breakdowns and delays provoked by Mercury’s retrograde don’t scare you. It doesn’t need to be expensive. Allow extra time for interesting deviations. Get advice from someone who’s been there. Study and explore.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 7 -- There is no shortage of benefits, if you apply for them.

Ask for what you want. Do the paperwork early to avoid breakdowns. An opportunity window is open now that could benefit your family’s fortune. Do the numbers.

break. Keep your infrastructure and systems functioning. Use your creative talents.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is an 8 -Establish new channels of communication this month, and keep them clear and operational with vigilance. Resolve misunderstandings as they Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Teamwork occur. Check in frequently with social accounts and and partnership thrive with nurturing, and provide conversations. You’ve got the gift of words, but they great results this month. Breakdowns occur when can still get garbled. misunderstandings go unaddressed and fester.

Keep communication channels open. Schedule Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 9 carefully. Avoid stirring up jealousies. Thank your -- There’s plenty of money to be made, and opportunities abound. Keep good records. Review crew for their unique contributions. financial statements to catch errors that could Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- You’re arise with Mercury’s retrograde. Track your time on fire at work this month, and there may be and materials. Keep communications clear. some fires to put out over the next few weeks Respond to all inquiries. with Mercury retrograde. Misunderstandings stop the action. Clear them immediately. Share written Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 9 -Mercury retrograde breakdowns in confidence objectives in a visible place. could throw you off your stride. Don’t pay attention Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- For to self-doubt. Remind yourself of your own the next three weeks with Sun, New Moon and accomplishments and talents. Create a new theme Mercury (retrograde) in Aquarius, practice, practice, song. Step into power and leadership this month. practice. Work out breakdowns and mistakes. Cut costs by simplifying. Improve your playing by Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is a 6 -- For putting in the time. Use persuasion and creativity. about three weeks with Mercury retrograde, revisit your old meditation or yoga program. Enjoy Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 7 -- Home nostalgia and retrospection. Dance to old songs is where you heart is, especially over the next you used to love. You’re gaining wisdom. Think, few weeks. Breakdowns in domestic projects plan and review your objectives. Prepare for (especially regarding electronics and appliances) uncharted territory. could require attention. Fix things before they

SUDOKU

12

Editor | Kelly Ward Sports@cw.ua.edu Wednesday, January 21, 2015

Track and field heads to Vanderbilt

By Tyler Waldrep | Contributing Writer

Senior Nia Barnes throws at the 2014 Crimson Tide Invitational. UA Athletics

The Alabama track and field team is looking to quickly turn the page after a successful meet at the Auburn Invitational. The team heads to the Vanderbilt Invitational this weekend with plans to pick up where it left off.

Coach Dan Waters said the team, despite its success last weekend, can still do much better.

“We definitely are ahead of where we were last year at this time,” he said.

“Does that mean we are where I expect us to be and want us to be to have a successful season? No, it doesn’t. We know what stage of the season we are in now, while we don’t expect everyone to be peaking at this point, we do expect people to be improving their performances

each week.”

Senior thrower Nia Barnes said the team draws its strength from its hunger to improve.

“We want to show people that Alabama is a great track program and that we have great athletes,” she said. “Our drive to be successful is our strength.”

Waters said the team’s attitude is better than in the years previous.

“One area that is now a strength that wasn’t so much in the past is the comfort level of our veteran people understanding the expectations and the culture we have established here,” he said.

The team will need that attitude as it goes on the road for a second consecutive week.

Sophomore Robbie Farnham-Rose said the team is prepared for the quick

turnaround. He also said he looks forward to getting back out on the road.

“We are very close as a team,” he said.

“Going away [together] is always fun.”

Barnes said she looks forward to competing again so soon, and more competitions provide her with more opportunities to improve.

Waters said even though the team just got back from a competition, his approach would remain unchanged, and said he does not expect the short turnaround to negatively affect the team’s preparation for the upcoming meet.

“It’s what we train for, to be in competition and to measure our performances against others, as well as our own expectations,” he said. “Competition is always a good thing. It’s what we enjoy doing the most.”

Women’s tennis prepares to face Syracuse, Princeton

By Caroline Gazzara | Staff Reporter

Andrew Goodwin plays a ball against Samford in last weekend’s season-opening doubleheader. UA Athletics

Men’s tennis travels to Chapel Hill for ITA Kick-Off Weekend

By Terrin Waack | Contributing Writer

After winning its doubleheader against Samford and UAB Monday, the men’s tennis team will now travel to play Virginia Tech, North Carolina and Oregon for the ITA Kick-Off Weekend in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

If Alabama wins against Virginia Tech on Friday, it will be scheduled to play the winner of the North Carolina vs. Oregon match the following day.

“Our goal is to win the first one and play North Carolina, because the winner of that gets an invite to the National Team Indoors,” Alabama coach George Husack said.

Although there is an ideal plan of how he’d like the weekend to go, Husack said right now facing off against Virginia Tech is at the forefront of his mind.

“North Carolina is very good, but I’m not even looking at that match really,” he said. “We have to look at Virginia Tech. They’re very strong and have everybody back, but we’ll be ready.”

There is nothing specific the team will do in order to prepare for Friday.

Husack said he believes that as long as it practices like it did this past week, it will be prepared for its match – the key

is to get better every day.

Husack, along with senior Stuart Kenyon and freshman Korey Lovett, said the team will be ready to replicate last Monday’s success on Friday. They said they know there are little things that will need to be worked on at practice this week, but looking back to the season opener, they are satisfied with the team’s performance.

“I was kind of overall happy about my game [Monday],” Kenyon said. “It really is just tightening up the notches about everything. Serving, a few more first serves, and returning better. It really is just fine tuning things.”

Like Kenyon, Lovett knows there are things each individual player will have to work on improving throughout the season.

“For me, it’s not giving any free points away,” he said. “Just focusing on all the positives from [Monday] and correcting all the things that didn’t go well.”

The team will have a few days of practice to do its fine tuning before heading to Chapel Hill. The men will start their first match Friday against Virginia Tech at 9 a.m. The Crimson Tide will either play at 2 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. Saturday versus North Carolina or Oregon, pending Saturday’s result.

It has seen greatness. It’s been through struggles and hardships. It’s grown into a championship program.

Now, the women’s tennis team kicks off its official spring season this weekend hosting Syracuse, Princeton and Virginia Tech.

“Well, they’re all good teams,” coach Jenny Mainz said. “We play Syracuse first so that’s all I’m worried about.

They’re a very good indoor team. Big serves, big hitters, kind of hard, flat.

[They] use the court well. We’ve got to be ready to neutralize.”

Last season, Crimson Tide duo Maya Jansen and Erin Routliffe won the NCAA doubles team championship, although the team fell short in the singles championship. This season, the team is coming together right on schedule, Mainz said.

This past weekend Alabama hosted Florida State, Georgia Tech and Northwestern in a friendly preseason tournament.

Coming off of this past weekend, Mainz said the team already had a game plan for preparing during practice. Mainz said the team will be working on discipline from the back line, being patiently aggressive and improving its first serve percentage.

“We’ve got to have a high first serve percentage,” she said. “If I’m missing first serves all the time and you’re attacking and pressuring me right away, I’ve lost control of the point. We’ve got to have a high first serve percentage and we’ve got to continue to put a lot of pressure on the servers, especially when they miss first serves.”

The team is also working on depth and speed throughout each match. Indoor tennis is fast, and Mainz said the team has to be prepared for that.

Sophomore Danielle Spielmann said the best part of playing this weekend is playing at home. She said there’s nothing like having the crowd behind

Aryn Greene prepares a forehand return in Alabama’s preseason Mal Moore Invitational last weekend.

UA Athletics

her and her teammates cheering them on.

“Playing at home with our crowd, I know not for everybody it is like that, but for us with our crowd it’s an unbelievable moment every time,” she said. “And sharing it with them, it’s just something.

I can’t really explain. You feel it down here [the courts]. Everybody is cheering you, you’re the last one on and you know you have the crowd behind you that has your back no matter if you win or lose.

Hosting is a really big part of us. It’s for sure a huge advantage and if we’re smart, which we are, can take advantage of that and carry that on, it’s going to help us for sure.”