01.24.13 The Crimson White by The Crimson White

SCENE

THE

Thursday, January 24, 2013

IS UP AND RUNNING Page 14

Serving the University of Alabama since 1894

Vol. 119, Issue 77

NEWS | PLEDGESHIP

UA makes no spring pledgeship policy changes Rules won’t change after fall cancellation By Adrienne Burch Assistant News Editor Despite allegations of a culture of hazing in Interfraternity uncil fraternity houses last Council mester, The University of semester,

Alabama has made no changes to the IFC fraternity recruitment policies and is allowing seven fraternities to conduct spring pledge recruitment, cluding ttwo chapters that including fo were investigated following allegations of hazing. “There have been no changes in the frater fraternity recruitment

process,” Tim Hebson, dean of students, said. “The University has appropriate policies and procedures for our greek students to have a positive newmember experience. It is our expectation that these individuals will adhere to these guidelines.” The policies es and

procedures for recruitment, found in the IFC New Member Education Manual of fall 2012, are the same policies and procedures fraternities were operating under last October when pledgeship was cancelled due to multiple hazing allegations. “The University sent a strong message messa last fall when it ended ple pledgeship early,”

Hebson said. “We will continue to expect student organizations and their members to work proactively to prevent hazing and to promptly report any concerns or allegations.” Though assistant dean of students Lowell Davis said on Oct. 18 the University would form a group to discuss the future of fraternity pledgeship,

Cathy Andreen, a University spokeswoman, confirmed Wednesday that no such group met prior to the start of spring recruitment. Andreen said the University will convene an anti-hazing task force after spring recruitment.

SEE PLEDGESHIP PAGE 2

SPORTS ORTS | GYMNASTICS

Power of Pink “

They’re fighting for their lives and their families. It’s bigger than Alabama and Kentucky. It’s a movement and an honor to be a part of it.

“

— Ashley Sledge

By Marquavius Burnett | Sports Editor The off-season trip to Louisville, Ky., was supposed to be a relaxing getaway with her daughter. But like everything else in her life, it turned into so much more. In March 2012 Sarah and David Patterson’s oldest daughter, Jessie Patterson Jones, learned her sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha, wanted to initiate Sarah as an honorary member during their national convention in June. But Sarah’s mind wasn’t thinking past nationals – “You try getting my mom to add anything major to her schedule in the middle of a gymnastics season,” Jessie said. As the season went on, she used her dad, David, to wear Sarah down and get her to consider the trip. After Alabama won its second consecutive gymnastics national championship, Jessie was able to convince Sarah to make the trip in June of 2012. During the trip, Sarah was pegged as the keynote speaker at the convention and was scheduled to be officially initiated into the sorority. Before the dinner, the two attended lunch and listened to a “State of the Fraternity” address in which Sarah’s eyes were opened to all of the things the sorority did to help others.

INSIDE Power of Pink coverage including by the numbers, Q&A with David Patterson and list of honored survivors. Pages 12-13

SEE PINK PAGE 8

NEWS | CAMPUS RENOVATIONS

NEWS | SMOKING

Asbestos found on campus UAB will change hiring policies ten Hoor considered safe during clean up By Ellen Coogan Contributing Writer Reconstruction in ten Hoor Hall has relocated students and academic departments this semester while The University of Alabama updates the building and addresses an asbestos presence in some of the flooring. “There is asbestos er • Plea s

er • Plea

ecycle this p

present in some of the flooring being removed,” Tim Leopard, assistant vice president of construction said. “Ten Hoor is absolutely safe – the work is being done in compliance with all standards and in accordance with [Alabama Department of Environmental Management] requirements and permits.” Leopard said renovations include putting in new windows, air conditioning system and fire alarms, finishing upgrades, and accessing

INSIDE today’s paper

improvements; it will bring the building up to current standards and improve the teaching and learning environment. The American studies and anthropology departments have moved their faculty offices to the Capstone Medical Center for the semester. Despite this, most of their classes are taught in buildings near the Quad, so students can get to and from class easily. SEE TEN HOOR PAGE 8

banning tobacco users from working at any of their health facilities. In order to enforce this, UAB Medicine will expand drug screenings for employees By Judah Martin to include tests for nicotine. Contributing Writer “Our intent is not to elimiSignificant changes to The nate people from applying for University of Alabama at positions with UAB Medicine, Birmingham Medicine’s hir- but rather to send the mesing polices of tobacco users sage that as the largest health are affecting The University of care provider in the state, we Alabama and local Tuscaloosa are committed to the health of our employees and all medical facilities. On July 1, UAB Medicine Alabamians,” UAB Health will enact a new policy System CEO Dr. Will Ferniany

Drug screenings to include nicotine test

Briefs ........................2

Sports ..................... 11

Opinions ...................4

Puzzles.................... 13

Culture ...................... 8

Classifieds .............. 13

WEATHER today

said in a news release. Alan Blum, physician professor of family medicine at The University of Alabama and recipient of the Smoke Free America Award and the first National Public Health Award for his research on tobacco’s effect on society, said some employers enact smoke-free policies to offset health insurance costs rather than out of concern for their employees.

Chance of rain

54º/41º

SEE SMOKING PAGE 6

Friday 64º/34º Rain showers

cl e recy this p se

GO ON THE

ONLINE

ON THE CALENDAR TODAY

FRIDAY

What: Get on Board – Day 3

What: Women’s Gymnastics

Where: Ferguson Center 2nd

VISIT US ONLINE AT CW.UA.EDU

Power of Pink Meet

SATURDAY What: Men’s Basketball v. Tennessee

Where:Coleman Coliseum

Where: Knoxville, Tenn.

When: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

When: 7:30 p.m.

When: 1 p.m.

What: UA Law School Fair

What: Dank Sinatra

Where: Ferguson Center

Where: Green Bar

Floor

Ballroom

Conference Concert

When: 10 p.m.

When: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

What: Church Music Where: Moody Music Building

When: 4:30 p.m.

What: That Thing at Cyprus Inn

Page 2• Thursday, January 24, 2013

What: Winter Wonderland

Where: Cyprus Inn Pavillion

Dance

When: 8 - 11:30 p.m.

Where: Student Center Ballroom

P.O. Box 870170 Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Newsroom: 348-6144 | Fax: 348-8036 Advertising: 348-7845 Classiﬁeds: 348-7355

Submit your events to

When: 6 - 10 p.m.

calendar@cw.ua.edu EDITORIAL

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BURKE

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DINNER Middle Eastern Gyro Chicken Burrito Mashed Potatoes Seasoned Corn Peas & Carrots (Vegetarian)

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LUNCH Baked & Home-Style Fried Chicken Grilled Italian Sausage with Peppers & Onions Potatoes Au Gratin Braised Cabbage Penne Alfredo (Vegetarian)

ON THE RADAR

House approves short-term debt ceiling lift; GOP lawmakers to demand more spending cuts MCT Campus

White House and Congress on another collision course in the budget battles that are expected to consume the first months of Obama’s second term. Republicans, who agreed to modest tax hikes on the wealthy in the year-end budget deal, have insisted that the next round of deficit-reduction must come from the spending side of the ledger. But because Republicans want to protect the Pentagon, their approach would require steep reductions in domestic programs – particularly education, infrastructure investment and the safety net for low- and moderateincome Americans. House Republicans will write their new budget in the coming weeks, but similar blueprints for eliminating the deficit in 10 years have pointed to austere measures: turning Medicare into a voucher-like program and raising the age at which seniors become eligible; cutting food stamps and school lunches; holding other domestic accounts flat. Republicans believe the public will be on their side, even though they lost the presidential election with the architect of the

last House budget on the ticket. Rep. Paul D. Ryan of Wisconsin, the wonkish Budget Committee chairman, again will take the lead in crafting the new budget. Ryan said he did not see the electoral loss as a rejection of the party’s principles. “I think we need to do a better job of applying our principles to the problems of today, to show solutions to the country’s biggest problems and how they relate in people’s everyday lives,” he told reporters Wednesday at a breakfast hosted by the Wall Street Journal. The nation has been running record yearly deficits, topping $1 trillion, almost since Obama took office. That largely stems from plummeting tax revenues during the recession and increased spending on the recovery effort and on health care costs for an aging population. The debt load doubled during President George W. Bush’s two terms with the wars overseas, and continues to rise toward levels that many economists say would destabilize interest rates and the economy. Closing the budget gap would require a $5 trillion adjustment over the decade.

Some economists, such as Paul N. Van de Water, a senior fellow at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, say the political effort that would require could be better focused elsewhere. “Trying to balance the budget is a needlessly ambitious goal,” he said. “Certainly a reasonable interim goal would be to cut deficits enough to make sure the debt doesn’t keep rising as a share of the economy.” The Senate, which is controlled by Democrats, plans to contrast the Ryan approach with its own budget, which is expected to raise revenue by closing tax breaks for the wealthy and loopholes that benefit specific industries, including oil and gas. “The American people went to the polls and strongly endorsed the Democrats’ balanced approach that puts jobs and the middle class first, calls on the wealthy to pay their fair share,” said Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., the incoming chairman of the Senate Budget Committee. Even before April 15, when the House and Senate face a deadline to pass budgets, a series of built-in deadlines will force both sides to negotiate.

On March 1, the federal budget faces $1.2 trillion in automatic spending cuts that both sides want to alter. Then on March 27, Congress will need to approve money for routine government operations, or risk a shutdown. After the short-term debt ceiling measure expires on May 18, the ceiling would need to be raised again, although the Treasury could take measures to extend borrowing into July. Conservatives continue to object to raising the debt ceiling, as was evident Wednesday when 33 opposed the measure. That forced Boehner to find Democratic votes for passage. Boehner had sweetened the legislation to attract support by attaching a provision that would temporarily withhold the pay of senators or representatives if their chamber failed to produce an annual budget by the deadline. The tactic drew Democratic and Republican votes. But some Democrats complained Wednesday that Republicans were simply setting up another “fiscal cliff.” Rep. Sander M. Levin, D-Mich., said, “House Republicans continue to play with economic fire.”

“There is going to be some foot-dragging, of course,” said Tara Jones, a Navy veteran and president of the National Military Women Veterans Assn. of America, based in San Diego. “People don’t like change, and our military is a male-oriented society.” Retired Navy Rear Adm. Veronica “Ronne” Froman, the first woman to command Navy Region Southwest in San Diego, said she was overjoyed. “This has been what we’ve been working for for a long time,” she said. “Women were the last minority in the Navy.” But Elaine Donnelly, president of the Center for Military Readiness, a conservative advocacy group based in Livonia, Mich., criticized the decision, arguing that women are less capable than men in warfare. “Women do not have an equal opportunity to survive or help

fellow soldiers survive in direct ground combat,” Donnelly said. The Army and the Marines have long resisted putting women in combat units, arguing they lacked the strength and agility to fight and survive in the harshest conditions. But officials said Gen. Martin Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs, and the other service chiefs supported the move to end the ban. Panetta will direct the chiefs of the Army, Air Force, Navy and Marines to develop plans for integrating women into combat units by 2016. He will order each branch to provide initial blueprints by this spring, and the services are expected to start implementing the policy fairly quickly. The services will be allowed to set physical fitness requirements and other standards for combat jobs, but the standards will be gender-neutral, said the officials.

“The presumption now is that all jobs will be open, instead of the old rule that presumed females would be kept out of ground combat,” one official said. Congress will have a month to review the decision before it goes into effect, officials said. The immediate reaction in Congress was mixed. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), a Vietnam combat veteran who sits on the Senate Armed Services Committee, tweeted: “I respect and support” Panetta’s decision “to lift the ban on women serving in combat.” The Air Force and the Navy are well ahead of the other services in integrating women into their forces, largely because neither service is heavily involved in ground combat. Women pilots have flown in combat since 1993, for instance. But even the Air Force bars

females from serving in certain ground assignments. “The American public is ready to accept a greater number of female casualties in wartime,” said Lory Manning, a retired U.S. Navy captain. “Everyone expected a hue and cry when women started getting killed in combat, and it hasn’t happened.” In all, 241,000 women are on active duty in the armed forces, out of 1.6 million Americans in uniform. Over the last decade, 61 female service members were killed in action in Iraq and 23 have died in Afghanistan. Opposition to women in combat has eased in the last decade as the number of women serving in the armed forces has grown, and the unconventional wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, with their lack of front lines and unconventional fighting, have sometimes put women in as much danger as men firing weapons.

18, 2012 after the University’s hazing hotline received calls regarding hazing in multiple organizations. Mark Nelson, vice president PLEDGESHIP FROM PAGE 1 for Student Affairs, described “An anti-hazing task force is these hazing incidents in a meeting this semester to come press conference following the up with recommendations for cancellation. fall recruitment,” Andreen said. “The hazing that resulted in The University cancelled the three interim suspensions fraternity pledgeship on Oct. involved several pledges being

asked to do exercises,” Nelson said. “These exercises are known as bows and toes where the pledges are asked to rest the weight of the body on their elbows and their toes, sometimes they are asked to put their elbows on bottle tops or broken light bulb glass.” In the Oct. 18 meeting with the Interfraternity Council fraternity presidents, Davis said

pledgeship was cancelled for the semester and that the possibility of spring pledgeship would be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Andreen said spring pledgeship was open to all fraternities, and seven have chosen to participate: Chi Phi, Phi Kappa Sigma, Phi Sigma Kappa, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Sigma Phi, Alpha Sigma Phi, and Sigma Pi.

The University received specific allegations via the hazing hotline for two of the fraternities participating in spring recruitment – Chi Phi and Kappa Sigma – Andreen said in an emailed statement on Oct. 18. Kappa Sigma was cleared after investigations by Greek Affairs and Judicial Affairs, and Chi Phi was investigated by its national organization.

WASHINGTON – Stepping up their austerity campaign, House Republicans plan to demand far deeper spending cuts from President Barack Obama to balance the federal budget in just 10 years, an extraordinary goal that would hit Medicare and other safety-net programs. House Speaker John A. Boehner, R-Ohio, confronted with a more conservative Republican majority, agreed to the dramatic initiative to coax reluctant rankand-file lawmakers Wednesday to approve a temporary suspension of the $16.4 trillion debt limit without any cuts in spending. The new proposal to balance the budget in a decade would zero out the federal deficit almost twice as fast as previous Republican efforts. “It’s time for us to get serious about how over the next 10 years we balance this budget and put America on a sustainable fiscal path,” the speaker said after the debt ceiling measure passed the House, 285-144. It now goes to the Senate, which is also expected to approve it. The House vote puts the

Keenan Madden 348-2670 Camille Dishongh 348-6875 Will Whitlock 348-8735

Military to lift ban on women in combat

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MCT Campus

Jake Morrow osmspecialprojects2@gmail.com 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 on the first floor, Student Publications Building, 923 University Blvd. The advertising mailing address is P.O. Box 2389, Tuscaloosa, AL 35403-2389. 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 2389, Tuscaloosa, AL 35403-2389. The Crimson White is entered as periodical postage at Tuscaloosa, AL 35401. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Crimson White, P.O. Box 2389, Tuscaloosa, AL 35403-2389. All material contained herein, except advertising or where indicated otherwise, is Copyright © 2012 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.

WASHINGTON – Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta is planning to lift the ban on women serving in ground combat units, removing one of the military’s last major gender barriers and opening up more than 230,000 combat jobs to females, senior Defense officials said. The historic decision, which Panetta is expected to announce Thursday, means women serving in the Army and Marines may soon be assigned for the first time to combat roles in infantry, armor and field artillery battalions, companies, platoons and squads. Although the move raises the likelihood that female troops will suffer far higher casualties in future wars, women’s veterans groups applauded the move as long overdue and in line with other sweeping changes in American culture.

Some chapters opt for spring pledgehip

NEWS OPINION CULTURE SPORTS

NEWS

Page 3 Editor | Melissa Brown newsdesk@cw.ua.edu Thursday, January 24, 2013

Bryce property changes slowly coming to close Despite delays, some departments will move into new ofﬁces near Recreation Center in February 1. Searcy Building - Research support

2. Bryce Hospital

- University Welcome Center - Cultural center - Museum

3. Education Center - Academic space

4. Medical Building - General use space

9 1 3

- General use space

9. Shop (17 West)

- General use space

Residence Halls

8 CW | Whitney Hendrix, Google Maps, 2012 Campus Master Plan

“

The historic structure may also be used as a visitor center for campus and could house museum space that celebrates the history of both UA and mental health in the state of Alabama — Dan Wolfe

Although the University hopes to gain access to all of the buildings on the property this fall, Wolfe said there is no set timeline regarding the remaining buildings on the property. “While the 2012 Master Plan has been approved by our Board of Trustees, no time frame has been established for the removal or renovation of the remaining buildings,” Wolfe said. Despite this, Andreen said some offices will begin moving into buildings on the Bryce Hospital campus starting in February. “The Office of Student Media is currently scheduled to move into the building in mid- to late-February,” Andreen said.

Wolfe said this acquired property will accommodate many different offices and departments from across campus; all changes are highlighted in the campus master plan. “The 2012 Campus Master Plan provides a look into the future of how the 168acre Bryce Campus might be used to accommodate University growth,” Wolfe said. “Housing, administrative, academic and auxiliary functions have all been identified as possible uses for the new property.” Additionally, Wolfe highlighted amenities in the Bryce Hospital building, including the possibility for new performing arts facilities for UA students, in

addition to a possibility for a museum and other collections showcasing UA and mental health history, . “We have identified the Bryce Main Building as a potential site for a state-ofthe-art addition to house a new performing arts center on campus,” Wolfe said. “The historic structure may

also be used as a visitor center for campus and could house museum space that celebrates the history of both UA and mental health in the state of Alabama.” In order to alleviate the anticipated increase in traffic in this area once the buildings are opened to campus, Wolfe said there are plans for

an additional road to make it easier to access to the area. “A proposed major collector road will be added to facilitate easier accessibility through campus and provide another connector to Jack Warner Parkway,” Wolfe said. “All of these things and many more are a part of the 2012 Master Plan.”

Take Home A Piece of History BCS National Championship Merchandise Available Exclusively from t

t t

Vol. 119,

Serving the

Wednesday,

January 9,

University

of Alabama

Issue 69

since 1894

2013

2012 BCS Championship Commemorative Front Page Poster The commemorative poster is $6.42 plus tax. Order online at store.osm.ua.edu or available for purchase at the Student Media Building

TinHREE R FOU “

e we all appreciat nd hope that understa I really shed and accompli sh it. what we to accompli what it took Nick Saban — Coach

Illustration and Design: CW | Mackenzie Brown Daniel Roth and Auvil Photo: CW | Shannon

*Posters Available January 22nd

t t

BAtoCK BACK

2012 National

Serving the

Monday, January

7, 2013

Online option helps students keep full-time status

University

of Alabama

Championship

since 1894

2012 BCS Commemorative Poster The commemorative poster is $6.42 plus tax. Order online at store.osm.ua.edu or available for purchase at the Student Media Building

“

Photo Illustration: Brown and Mackenzie CW | Daniel Roth Bigoney Photo: CW | Austin

Spring II provides an excellent opportunity for students to pick up an additional class that can count toward their degree

*Posters Available January 22nd

t t

— Jacob Jones

Vol. 119,

Serving the

of Alabama

Issue 69

since 1894

January 9, 2013 Championship Edition The Wed. edition of the paper is $4.59 plus tax. Order online at store.osm.ua.edu or available for purchase at the Student Media Building

TinHREE FOUR “

e we all appreciat nd hope that understa I really shed and accompli sh it. what we to accompli what it took Nick Saban — Coach

Mackenzie Brown Daniel Roth and Auvil Photo: CW | Shannon

and choose ‘Spring II (10 Week)’ in the part-of-term field.” The courses offered, which span several departments and colleges, include an art history course, American history, microeconomics and an American studies course called “Reagan’s Cold War,” to name a few. The Honors College is also offering a Common Book Experience for Spring II. The term ends April 26th, with finals scheduled for April 29. The last day to register or add a class for Spring II is Feb. 15.

University

2013

Design: CW |

previously dropped a course and need to return to fulltime status to do so easily.” The University began offering a Spring II term in 2010, Jones said, to meet the needs and wishes of many students. Since then, many students and professors have taken advantage of the opportunity. “There are 29 sections being offered for Spring II thus far,” Jones said. “A full list of these classes can be found by selecting ‘Look Up Classes’ in myBama. From there, students should select ‘Advanced Search,’ highlight all available subject codes

January 9,

“

Wednesday,

Illustration and

Students looking to fill an open spot in their schedule or pick up a few extra hours can now register for Spring II classes, a mini-term that opened registration on Jan. 18 and will begin Feb. 11. Spring II is a 10-week supplemental term that allows for students to increase their course load by taking one of many classes offered in this condensed semester format. Most of the classes are conducted online, allowing for flexibility for students whose schedules may not have allowed for another regular spring term class. “Spring II provides an excellent opportunity for students to pick up an additional class that can count toward their degree,” Jacob Jones, assistant university registrar, said. “Spring II also allows students who

Parking

Spring II class registration remains open until Feb. 11 By Mark Hammontree Contributing Writer

10. National Water Center 11. Performing Arts Center

“

The 36-month period of renovation and restoration of the Bryce Hospital campus since The University of Alabama acquired it in December 2009 is slowly coming to a close, UA officials said. “We hope to have complete access of the Bryce Campus by this October, once the new Bryce Hospital is completed and they get moved in,” Dan Wolfe, University master planner, said. “We currently have access to several of the buildings, but not the entire area.” Cathy Andreen, UA spokeswoman, said the delay is the result of the high cost and breadth of the project, which was not originally anticipated by UA administrators. “In order to stay within budget, contractors were given more time to complete the renovations to the building after initial bids for the project came in higher than expected,” Andreen said.

- University Recreation bike barn - Outdoor recreation support

6. Kidd Center - General use space 7. Old & New Admissions - Academic space 1' Lni^kbgm^g]^gm l FZglbhg

By Alan Alexander and Chandler Wright CW Staff

5. Kidd Cafeteria

December 7, 2012 Crimson White Championship Preview Edition The preview edition of the paper is $4.59 plus tax. Order online at store.osm.ua.edu or available for purchase at the Student Media Building

NEWS OPINION CULTURE SPORTS

OPINIONS

Page 4 Editor | John Brinkerhoff letters@cw.ua.edu Thursday, January 24, 2013

POLITICS

These are 3 words to remove from your political vocabulary By Nathan James Senior Staff Columnist

MCT Campus

POLITICS

Alabama Republicans wasting time in threatened delusion By Tray Smith Senior Staff Columnist State House Republicans released their agenda last week – a list of 11 proposals under the headline “We Dare Defend Our Rights.” They vowed to defend against “an ever-expanding and encroaching federal government, committed liberal activists, and entrenched special interests fighting to preserve the dysfunctional status quo.” It is hard to feel the excitement and celebration of 2010 – the year Republicans took control of the state legislature from Democrats for the first time in more than a century – when our state legislators are still preoccupied by the illusionary threat of our own nation. That was once the Democrats’ preoccupation. Only two items on the Republican agenda deal with the state’s most pressing issue: education reform. One would give local school districts more flexibility and exempt them from certain state regulations, and the other vaguely commits to improving technology and equipment for career-technical education in high schools. Given the poor performance of many Alabama school districts, it is astounding that the people most responsible for setting public policy in this state believe giving those districts even more autonomy will somehow compel them to improve. Career-tech education does need to be enhanced, but even the best

Tray Smith

technology and equipment won’t matter unless the state develops a comprehensive program that sets standards for and improves access to courses in a variety of fields. That is exactly the type of statebased programming Republicans seem to be resisting. It is a surprise considering the success Gov. Bob Riley had with the Alabama Reading Initiative, a state-based reading program his administration spread to schools across Alabama with great results. Republicans shouldn’t resist government programs out-of-hand, at any level, simply because they are government programs. New programs and policies are going to be needed if Republicans want to break the grip unions have over our public school system and prevent ineffective local leadership from bungling our children’s education. The Alabama Reading Initiative is an excellent example of a state-driven effort to improve reading proficiency among our students because disparate, local efforts proved inadequate. Republicans should be

more aware than anyone else of the level of dysfunction that plagues state and local governments across Alabama, after decades of Democratic mismanagement, and they should champion the type of systematic reforms needed to put the state on a better course. Instead of giving badly performing school districts more freedom to make bad decisions, force them to compete with private, community and faith-based groups to offer children a better education. Instead of buying new computers for career-tech classes, bring in industry experts and academics to determine what course of study career-tech students in different fields should be taught, and devise ways to assess their mastery of those courses. Instead of adding more language to the state constitution to protect gun rights, look into reforms and programs that protect and encourage responsible gun ownership like safety courses and background checks. On the subject of guns and crime, Republicans could also begin a conversation about our alarming incarceration rate and how to harness the power of faith-based and community organizations to rehabilitate prisoners. Sadly, Republicans in Alabama aren’t embracing any of these initiatives or proposing any innovative, thoughtful reforms in their place. This is all the more sad because it is very different from what is taking

place in many other states across the country, where Republican leaders aren’t simply resisting President Obama’s most intrusive federal programs and cutting state government. They are showing, through their work, alternatives to Obama’s policies. The president gave us the fiscal-cliff and a tax hike, while in Louisiana, Republican Gov. Bobby Jindal is attempting to eliminate all state income taxes. Just-departed Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels signed the most expansive school-choice legislation in the country before he left office, giving more parents the freedom to choose where their children attend school. In Wisconsin, Gov. Scott Walker successfully beat back union influences to save the state hundreds of millions of dollars, and that state now has a budget surplus. In New Jersey, Gov. Chris Christie has reduced the state tax burden and helped balance its long-term pension obligations. These Republicans have done a lot of good for their states, and Republicans in Alabama could do a lot for ours. They can both do everything in their limited power to resist the president’s agenda and advance a compelling, innovative agenda of their own. Doing so would be of much greater service to the state than another year of divisive social issues and pointless grandstanding against the federal government. Tray Smith is a senior majoring in journalism. His column runs weekly on Thursdays.

If you follow politics, there are certain words you’re likely to hear a lot. And sometimes, a lot is simply too much. Sometimes, a word is so overused or so badly used that it loses its meaning and becomes noise. And other times, a word actually inhibits intelligent conversation. In light of President Barack Obama’s inauguration and in anticipation of the next four years of politics, here are three words that simply need to go away. The first word is “socialist.” Ostensibly, this word describes a system of government wherein property is owned jointly by the community, but recently it has been used to define any institution whereby wealth is redistributed. Victims of the “socialist” label include Obamacare, liberal tax policies and welfare programs, even though these things are no more socialist in principle than social security or veterans’ benefits. The fact is some Republicans have taken to labeling any financial policy they don’t like as socialist, particularly policies supported by the Obama administration. The actual nature of the economic policy is immaterial; for evidence of this, look at Republicans’ vehement defense of social security, which is the American institution that most closely resembles actual socialism. In short, “socialist” has lost its meaning. Its use no longer adds to political dialogue, and we no longer need it. The second word we should retire from political lingo is “terrorist.” Like “socialist,” this is a word politicians and pundits selectively apply to institutions they oppose. Yes, Hamas and al Qaeda use terror to advance their political goals. But one could argue that so do American drone strikes and Israeli strafing runs. Military actions taken by Xe Solutions, a private military corporation employed by the United States in the war in Iraq, fit the description of terrorist to a T. But because of their ties to the United States (or because they are the United States), these groups escape being labeled as terroristic. “Terrorist” isn’t used to describe organizations, it’s used to demonize them. And most often, it’s used to clump all Islamist fundamentalists under an extremely uninformative umbrella. The last word that we need to stop using is “elitist.” This term has its roots in the basest political gamesmanship, and makes cynical and unsupported assumptions about both political parties. Most often applied to Obama in recent years, this term implies that a party or individual favors the domination of the majority by a small ruling class. Neither party wants that. Both the Republican and Democratic parties have the same fundamental goals, which involve the greatest benefit to the people with the smallest exercise of government power. Yes, our politicians tend to be rich and out of touch, but that’s because they’re a product of a system that requires them to be. We should take issue with a system that only allows rich career politicians to achieve positions of power, but it’s childish to brand individual lawmakers as “elitist” because they have a Harvard degree, a lot of houses, or a famous family. I don’t believe that people will stop using these words, but one can hope that we find replacements that are a little more meaningful. Here’s to the next four years. Nathan James is a sophomore majoring in public relations. His column runs weekly on Thursdays.

POLITICS

Shootings demand more consciousness from media in their depictions of violence By Chris Beacham Staff Columnist It is no secret that media and pop culture have changed significantly over the past century. In a similar vein, the standard of appropriateness evolved, changing alongside media to allow for more self-expression, including violence. With this increase of violence in media came the question: How does violence in cinema contribute to violence in society? The question has come up repeatedly in the last year. The increase in large-scale gun violence has pushed the U.S. government to potentially

believe in censorship, I also believe that media has a huge influence on our culture, which does have an influence on collective behavior. We live in a violent society. Media depictions of violence seem to mirror this and inadvertently endorse it. Don’t get me wrong, I believe mental health and gun policies/ Chris Beacham regulations are the two most important issues in the debate on large-scale crimes and how pass new gun laws, while Vice to eradicate them. President Joe Biden has met Still, I can’t help but feel with companies of video games that culture does play a part to discuss violence in what in desensitizing us to gun they are creating. violence. Guns have been in The question is fascinating, films from the beginning of especially now. While I do not cinematic history, but how

EDITORIAL BOARD Will Tucker Editor-in-Chief Ashley Chaffin Managing Editor Stephen Dethrage Production Editor Mackenzie Brown Visuals Editor

Daniel Roth Online Editor Alex Clark Community Manager Ashanka Kumari Chief Copy Editor John Binkerhoff Opinions Editor

they are depicted has changed drastically. For me, there is too much of a sadistic “guns are cool” and “violence is fun” mentality in our culture. Some of my favorite films have violence, but the way in which it is presented is very different from many films today. In media, violence has the potential to be used elegantly and to communicate profound ideas and feelings, but this is rarely the case. The older movies get, the more violent and gruesome they become. Most people are able to understand the line between fantasy and reality, but for

some with psychological issues, the violent media becomes fuel to the fire of their condition. The simple fact is that films have spawned violent acts. Stanley Kubrick’s film “A Clockwork Orange” was thought to inspire copycat crimes throughout Britain and was banned, although Kubrick disagreed with the connection. In Louisiana, a couple began a crime spree after being inspired by the film “Natural Born Killers.” Video games like “Grand Theft Auto” have inspired crime sprees, some from teenagers. There is no balance in the world of the media. There is too

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much violence and no meaning behind it. It is time for the film, television, video game and music producers to become more mindful of what they’re producing for public consumption and gain some sense of responsibility for the part they play in impacting and molding the culture of society. Art can change the way people think and feel about the world around them; that is an incredibly powerful force. It is time to recognize that reality and begin to craft art with more awareness. Chris Beacham is a sophomore majoring in psychology. His column runs biweekly.

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Thursday, January 24, 2013 | Page 5

CULTURE

Feel free to continue using your gadgetry; computers will not take over our world By Tarif Haque Staff Columnist Have you heard the rumors? Fifty years from now, we will be fat, anti-social computer addicts. Ignore the gossip. Machines will not take over the world. Continue to use your gadgetry. In fact, I grow mildly irritated when people tell me weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve become too dependent on computers. Did their ancestors refuse to use fire? In fact, skeptics probably existed during the dawn of fire screaming, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We shall freeze to death instead of use this new fire!â&#x20AC;? Fire can burn us, and computers can

distract us, only if we let them. Today, the simplest activities require computers. Need to warm food? Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a computer chip in your microwave. The dirty clothes that lie on your floor must be cleaned sometime. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s see if your washing machine will function without a computer inside it. We use computers in nearly every area of our lives. If anything, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t appreciate computers enough. People today seem to think computers have created a death in culture. As technology pervades society, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s as if overnight weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll no longer have friends or be able to

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Cell phones, laptops and iPods donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t isolate us from society - they make life a little more tolerable and a bit less complicated.

think independently. I spend six to eight hours a day on a computer. The majority of this time is spent doing school work and communicating information. Multitasking still exists. Half the time I spend on computers is simultaneously spent around oth-

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Debunking Jim Crow misconceptions: name refers to stage character, not a historical racist I commend The Crimson White for taking the trouble to quote from James Hoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s op-ed piece and to make it available. I also think Maxton Thomanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s piece about students ignoring MLK Day was well thought out and intentioned. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m writing to clear up what I think is a widespread misperception. Thoman writes of â&#x20AC;&#x153;racial injustice â&#x20AC;&#x201C; formed at the hands of Jim Crow.â&#x20AC;? Jim Crow was not a person at the heart of civil rights or segregation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m assuming there are many ordinary citizens by that name. Jim Crow was not an important person, either. I can understand that people might think Crow was behind racist laws because of the way we talk about â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jim Crow lawsâ&#x20AC;? or â&#x20AC;&#x153;the Jim Crow South.â&#x20AC;? Jim Crow was a stage character created

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

The term â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Jim Crowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; became a racial slur, and later it became shorthand for prejudicial laws, systems and attitudes.

by Thomas Dartmouth â&#x20AC;&#x153;Daddyâ&#x20AC;? Rice, a struggling white entertainer in 19th century New York. Rice wrote a song about Jim Crow, supposedly after hearing an African-American man or boy singing the song. Rice then blackened his face with burnt cork to perform the song, and by 1828 was portraying â&#x20AC;&#x153;an exaggerated, highly stereotypical black character,â&#x20AC;? according to the Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia.

Unsurprisingly, perhaps, Riceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blackface show was popular and he added more equally offensive black characters to his repertoire â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and he had many imitators in minstrel shows around the country. Ten years later, the term â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jim Crowâ&#x20AC;? became a racial slur, and later it became shorthand for prejudicial laws, systems and attitudes. But Rice was just entertaining people, right? According to the museum, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rice and his imitators, by their stereotypical depictions of blacks, helped to popularize the belief that blacks were lazy, stupid, inherently less human, and unworthy of integration.â&#x20AC;? Sandi Wisenberg is the visiting Coal Royalty Chair in Creative Writing at The University of Alabama.

ers. Cell phones, laptops and iPods donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t isolate us from society â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they make life a little more tolerable and a bit less complicated. Computers connect us to the rest of the world, not the other way around. We are social creatures by nature. Computers may change the way we communicate and interact with people, but they cannot take away who we are. We like being around one another. Computers allow us to build bigger, better things. The human mind will not slowly deteriorate as computers become more perceptive, responsive and complex. Instead, they will lend us tools to our advantage. People are glori-

fied for doing things the old-fashioned way. In a class last year, an instructor told us of a man who built his million dollar business without using a cell phone and continues to refuse technology. Apparently, this was to motivate the class to not be so dependent on computers. That was perhaps the silliest piece of advice Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d heard in years. Those that survive, adapt. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is the most adaptable to change,â&#x20AC;? Darwin said years ago. Any outlier is an exception, not the rule. Is your computer telling you not to exercise? Has your

cell phone stranded you on an island with no human contact? You elect to stay indoors on a computer foregoing faceto-face social interaction. Claiming technology makes us lethargic is equivalent to saying money makes us greedy. If you wish it, it will happen, but do not blame computers for your lackluster activity levels. We have not become too dependent on computers. I do not foresee a worldwide power outage or network failure in the immediate future. Machines will not take over the world. Continue to use your gadgetry. Tarif Haque is a sophomore majoring in computer science. His column runs biweekly on Thursdays.

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Page 6 | Thursday, January 24, 2013

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Christian sorority recruitment begins Jan. 29 Alpha Delta Chi focuses on spreading God’s message, providing members with support, sisterhood By Morgan Reames Contributing Writer

University of Alabama women are invited to attend the recruitment week for Alpha Delta Chi, a national Christian sorority, beginning Tuesday, Jan. 29. “Girls will benefit enormously from joining,” said Megan Lawrence, president of Alpha Delta Chi. “Not only do you immediately gain about 50 new sisters, you will be blessed with the comfort of knowing you can depend on any one of us for anything.” Recruitment events will be held over the course of three days beginning with a meetand-greet in Room 313 of the Ferguson Center on Tuesday, followed by a night of worship and a philanthropy event. “I would say the most beneficial thing I have experienced is gaining a tight knit network of friends and bonds that I know will last me a life time,” Brittany Monte, vice president of external affairs

for Alpha Delta Chi, said. “I have girls that I am confident will continue to support me in all situations, but also spiritually.” The founding chapter was formed at the University of California in 1925 for Christian women to be able to participate in greek life without compromising their beliefs. “Alpha Delta Chi is a Christian sisterhood with two goals: to share God’s love and message on campus through service and through our witness, and to provide Christian girls with a support system and a group of likeminded girls they can create long-lasting memories with,” Lawrence said. The recruitment week for Alpha Delta Chi differs from the traditional fall rush for other sororities on campus because they represent a unique niche of Christian women, Lawrence said. “Although we comply with Panhellenic conduct and enjoy fellowship with all greek orga-

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Rush is not only a time for us to meet the girls and see if they’re a ﬁt for us, but also to see if it is something they truly feel called to be a part of. — Brittany Monte

nizations, our membership requirements set us apart and therefore we hold a separate recruitment which allows girls to further pray and consider rushing after exploring other options,” Lawrence said. Monte said she encourages all women to come to the rush events, even if they are unsure it is right for them. “I would say to any girl that is considering rushing, just come check us out, even if you’re not sure,” Monte said. “Rush is not only a time for us to meet the girls and see if they’re a fit for us, but also

to see if it is something they truly feel called to be a part of.” To be considered for membership, women must be a Christian and must actively participate in a church organization. “I rushed and pledged ADX the spring semester of my freshman year, and it was everything I thought it’d be and more,” Lauchlan Smith, a junior majoring in telecommunications and film, said. “It is a sorority with Jesus.” Lawrence said they differ from traditional sororities in some ways but still partici-

pate in social events. “We don’t allow alcohol at our events and we do not have a house,” Lawrence said. “We are similar in that we do a lot of the same things other sororities do, such as receiving big sisters and participating in swaps.” Smith said Alpha Delta Chi has been beneficial in terms of leadership roles, as well as within her major. “In my time with ADX so far, I’ve held a few leadership positions such as the new member educator and have been on standards board the past year,” Smith said. “Both of those have helped me gain experience within my major by interacting with a variety of personalities and practicing effective conflict resolution.” Alpha Delta Chi currently has 15 chapters nationally, including the Tau Chapter at The University of Alabama founded in 2004. “Because we are small, we all know each other very well

and are able to form strong relationships,” Lawrence said. “I personally know each of my sisters will be there for me at any given time and that is something that is invaluable to me.” “Originally, I hadn’t wanted to go greek, but I saw chalkings for a ‘Christian sorority’ and didn’t think that was real,” Smith said. “I figured I’d check it out just to see if it was legit. I went to an information meeting, and I ended up loving the girls.” There will be an information meeting before recruitment week on Thursday, Jan. 24 at 8 p.m. in Room 313 of the Ferguson Center. “More than half of us never even wanted to or thought we would end up being in a sorority, and now we are a part of something we wouldn’t trade for anything,” Monte said. For additional information, contact Megan Miller, recruitment chair for Alpha Delta Chi, at memiller3@crimson. ua.edu.

During heavy ﬂu season, UA still offering vaccines Student Health Center, Faculty/ Staff Clinic both still have shots left over from ‘No Flu Zone’ campaign By Sarah Robinson Contributing Writer With Alabama classified as one of 30 states with high influenza-like illness activity, by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, University of Alabama students may want to consider getting vaccinated if they haven’t already, and the University still has shots available from their fall No Flu Zone campaign. Sara Kaylor, an instructor at The University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing, was one of many medical professors who worked to prepare University students, faculty and staff for the 20122013 flu season. She was involved in the UA

“

You need the combination of soap, water and friction to have good hand washing. Barely applying soap won’t help. — Sara Kaylor

No Flu Zone campaign, which is a campaign the University Medical Center and the Capstone College of Nursing launched in September 2012. The University purchased 8,000 flu shots for the campaign, which were administered by upperclassmen nursing students and the University Medical Staff. “As of Dec. 31, 2012 we had given approximately 2,785 vaccinations to faculty and

staff and 4,430 to students,” Lisa Kidd, the administrative secretary at the University Medical Center, said. Kaylor said aside from taking the vaccine, the best way to avoid the flu is by vigorously washing your hands. “You need the combination of soap, water and friction to have good hand washing,” she said. “Barely applying the soap won’t help.” Another way to avoid the

CW | Anna Waters

Beginning Jan. 1, 2014, employees of the DCH Health System in Tuscaloosa will be prohibited from smoking on and directly across from their premises.

New policy follows other state examples

Massachusetts, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee and Texas have also stopped hiring tobacco users. SMOKING FROM PAGE 1 Brad Fisher, communicaHe said the Capstone is tion director for DCH Health one of those employers with System in Tuscaloosa, said a health insurance policy requiring smokers to pay more. “Employers need to be The feeling among us and clear about their motives,” the other industry is that a Blum said. “If the employer hospital should be encouragis responsible for covering ing a healthy lifestyle. the cost of employees’ health insurance, then that employ— Brad Fisher er should state that the decision to mandate a tobaccofree hiring policy is being made to help lower costs DCH employees don’t have to through the reduced level of quit smoking. They just won’t tobacco-caused illnesses and be able to do it at work. On lost workdays.” Jan. 1, 2014, the hospital will He said, however, these enact a policy prohibiting smoke-free policies encour- smoking both on and directly age smokers to stop. across from their premises. “When [smokers] can’t He said the policy came light up, they don’t,” Blum after the hospital’s medisaid. cal staff began pushing for a The new policy at medical smoke-free campus two years facilities like UAB, is part ago. of a growing national trend. “There will be no tobacco Hospitals in Florida, Georgia, consumption on our prop-

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erty,” Fisher said. “You can’t run to your car and smoke; you can’t walk around spitting tobacco into a Mountain Dew bottle, either.” Fisher said DCH will focus on educating their employees with stop-smoking programs in the 11 months before the policy goes into effect. “We have had smoking programs in place for a while, but obviously now there’s more incentive to take advantage of those,” Fisher said. “The feeling among us and the other industry is that a hospital should be encouraging a healthy lifestyle. You can probably see a time in the future that it will be mandated by government.” Fisher said since the policy is campuswide, it will apply to patients and visitors as well, but smoking cessation programs will be available. “If we have a patient who really has to smoke, of course we can put the patch on them,” Fisher said. “There are ways to help the patient with their situation.”

illness is to refrain from constantly touching your hair, face and eyes. “This flu travels from contaminated surface areas. The best way that we catch the flu is through our mucus membranes, so if we touch our face and eyes then that is one way that we can transmit it,” Kaylor said. She also advise people that are sick to stay home, so they won’t give others the virus. For anyone needle-wary, another option is a nasal mist. Kaylor said that mist is typically used for children, but has also worked well in

adults and teenagers. Although the mist is an option, it does present a few problems, Kaylor said. “It is a little bit more difficult to obtain, because it is so popular. If you have the choice of a shot or the flu mist, you’ll probably choose the flu mist,” Kaylor said. “And all the shots get left behind. And the flu mist is more of a live virus. If your immune system is already compromised, then you can’t get the mist because you could get the flu from that flu medicine.” Jack Lester, a UA graduate, always prepares for the flu

season, and this season was no different. He received the flu shot his junior and senior years at the Capstone after contracting the illness his first two years. “I don’t see my friends prepare as much,” Lester said. “I think they wash their hands and use hand sanitizer, but I don’t know if my friends get a flu shot. And that is something maybe more of my friends can do.” Flu shots are still available at the Student Health Center or the Faculty/Staff Clinic at the University Medical Center.

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Thursday, January 24, 2013 | Page 7

Peer Leaders seeks upperclassmen students

Program matches mentors with 1st-year students to help them adjust to college; applications due Jan. 28 By Camille Corbett Contributing Writer

Th e Peer Leaders Program, a mentoring program for first-year students that places upperclassmen in classrooms across campus, is accepting applications for upperclassmen peer leaders until Jan. 28. In its second year, the Peer Leaders program is intended to be an in-class tool, placing upperclassmen students in first-year classrooms to assist professors with understanding their younger peers and first-year students with adjusting to a college curricula. “This is the second year we are recruiting for Peer Leaders,” Litsa Orban, assistant director for First Year

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We look to Peer Leaders to be the role models to the students; they can help them in their transition in the university. For the Peer Leaders, it’s a learning experience and they get to grow by being leaders. The professors beneﬁt because it gives that peer outlook and advice from people that can relate to their students. — Mary Alice Porter

Experience programs, said. “It evolved last year, as the First Year Experience area was developing. We find that the Peer Leader role increases student comfort in the learning environment. After this past year, we also saw great value in the partnership between the Peer Leader and instructor.” Mary Alice Porter, coordinator of First Year Experience and parent programs, said the Peer Leaders

are often looked to as role models for the younger students in the classroom. “We look to Peer Leaders to be the role models to the students; they can help them in their transition in the university. For the peer leaders, it’s a learning experience and they get to grow by being leaders,” Porter said. “The professors benefit because it gives that peer outlook and advice from people that can relate to their students.”

For some students, this program is as a form of community service and giving back. “Peer Leaders is a great way to build leadership skills and give back to the campus community,” said Sean Johnson-Sippial, a junior majoring in management and information sciences. Orban said not everyone is qualified to be a Peer Leader. They must show leadership skills and academic drive in order to be considered for the position. “Peer Leaders must demonstrate a commitment to academic and social success at the Capstone,” Orban said. “We hope they are knowledgeable about campus life and resources and truly care

about first-year students.” In addition, students have to be trained to be a Peer Leader through a variety of media. “Training ove r v i ews first-year student transition, instructor-Peer Leader partnerships and the Peer Leader role,” Orban said. Additionally, Orban said most of those who participated, including professors, Peer Leaders and students, had a positive experience in the program. “Our assessment indicated benefits for all involved – the students, the instructors and the Peer Leaders,” Orban said. “Overall, the students found the course relatable and supportive, the instructor benefited from the Peer Leader’s contributions and

FAST FACTS • Peer Leaders mentor firstyear students. • Students must show leadership skills and an academic drive to be considered for a position. • Application deadline is Jan. 28. ability to engage students in a unique way, and the Peer Leaders stated they were part of a valuable leadership and able to create meaningful relationships with UA instructors and their peers.”

SGA Judicial Board accepting applications for 2013 year Board monitors Student Government laws, parking appeals, non-academic misconduct controversy By Taylor Veazey Contributing Writer

The SGA Judicial Board, the branch of the Student Government Association that monitors matters of SGA laws, parking appeals and non-academic misconduct controversies, is now accepting applications for the 2013-2014 school year. “We are looking for any student that embodies the Capstone Creed and follows the student code of conduct,” Meagan Bryant, SGA executive press secretary, said. Bryant said that students do not need to be a political science, pre-law student

or previous SGA member to join the board. “It’s beneficial to all students because you gain other experiences like interview practice and rules of etiquette,” Bryant said. The Judicial Board is open to full-time students at all levels of their academic career, from freshmen to graduate and law students. SGA Chief Justice Joe Hart said they are looking for students with good decisionmaking skills that are role models for other students. “We are making decisions that affect other students’ lives, so we need to be hard working together,” Hart said.

throughout the school year. Hart said the board reached more than 70 class• SGA Judicial Board rooms last year with its presentations on avoiding monitors matters of SGA trouble and making good choices. laws, parking appeals, Students interested in non-academic misconapplying should be in good academic standing with the duct, controversies. University, including nonacademic conduct records. • Applications are due to Along with the application, the Judicial Affairs office students should also submit a sealed and signed letter of by Feb. 14 and can be recommendation from a UA faculty member. found on sga.ua.edu. Applications can be found at sga.ua.edu, the SGA office in Room 231 of the Ferguson West. Applications are due Center, and the Judicial to the Judicial Affairs office Affairs office in 107 Burke by Thursday, Feb. 14.

FAST FACTS

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We are making decisions that affect other students’ lives, so we need to be hard working together. — Joe Hart

The current Judicial Board is comprised of a chief justice, 20 associate justices, a chief clerk and two associate clerks. Hart also said experience with the Judicial Board is something prestigious to add to a resume and shows willingness to be a leader. “It makes you think about things in a different way,

which helps you learn how you should act as a mature adult,” Hart said. Once selected, the group of justices and clerks do more than just hear cases. They form committees that focus on different areas such as education, student involvement and character building, and they put on several outreach events on campus

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CULTURE

Page 8 Editor | Lauren Ferguson culture@cw.ua.edu Thursday, January 24, 2013

Hotel Capstone to host 2nd annual bridal show Jewelers, caterers, event planners from Tuscaloosa, Birmingham among vendors planning attendance By Megan Miller Contributing Writer Before a bride says “I do,” she must have each detail of her wedding planned out, including everything from the flowers to the dress. Bridal shows often give brides the opportunity to tie up any last details before their big day. Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Hotel Capstone will host its second annual bridal show to help brides in the Tuscaloosa and Birmingham, Ala., areas do just that. “We will have a range of vendors like florists, photographers, jewelers and caterers,” said Karna Zelidon, director of sales and marketing for Hotel Capstone. “Even if you’ve already booked your venue, there may be other vendors you haven’t hired yet like event planners or a linen company.” In 2012, 270 brides attended the bridal show and the hotel is expecting a slightly larger turn out for 2013. “The main feature will be top contender from TLC’s ‘The Next Great Baker,’ Jay Qualls, who will do a live wedding cake

demonstration, and he will be available for a meet-and-greet,” Zelidon said. Vendors will include Special Events, Duet Art & Jewelry, Prestige Limousine Services, Stella & Dot, Reed’s Jewelers, Travel Planners, Clinton E. Horn DJ, Feel the Beat Entertainment, Totally Hair, Nancy Taylor Day Spa, A Cutting Edge Caterers, Mary Kay Inc. and more. “Vendors will be from Tuscaloosa and Birmingham, so we will have both local and other vendors,” Zelidon said. “This gives brides to pick and choose what they are interested in.” The event will end with a fashion show featuring wedding and bridesmaid dresses. Lady in Lace will present wedding dresses, and Sash and Bella Bridesmaids will contribute bridesmaid dresses to the fashion show. Betty Quarles, owner of Lady in Lace, will be attending the show for the first time, but this will not be Lady in Lace’s first appearance at the bridal show. “We carry a full line of bridal gowns, mother-of-the-bride

Submitted

Vendors in attendance will display everything from food and dresses. dresses, bridesmaid dresses, flower girl dresses, jewelry and bridal books,” Quarles said. “If you’re going to wear it, we have it.” Quarles purchased Lady in Lace in August 2012 and has incorporated her background in costuming to do customization for brides. “I’ve been bringing full customization into the store so

a bride can incorporate their mother or grandmother or sister into her dress,” Quarles said. “I can customize it and fashion it just for her.” Tickets are $5 if purchased from Hotel Capstone in advance, and $7 at the door. Zelidon said the show is for any bride that is newly engaged, so the brides have the opportunity to book vendors they haven’t yet.

Gospel ladies quartet, UA cancels classes on case by case basis other Christian acts to “ sing at Bama Theatre By Hannah Widener Contributing Writer

Ask singer Chrishon Smith of the Anointed Brown Sisters how they got their name and she will tell you, “Well we are brown, and we are sisters, but more importantly we were all filled with the Holy Ghost years back.” These four women – Mesha Lanier, Ora Brown, Chrishon Smith and her daughter Crystal Smith, comprise the singing group and ministry called the Anointed Brown Sisters. “We sing so that people might be healed, delivered and set free,” Smith said. The sisters, who grew up in a family of nine in Havana, Ala., have been singing all of their lives. In addition to performing in Alabama, the sisters have traveled across the country to 21 states and participated in a tour of 12 cities throughout Italy. It was there in Italy that they performed in front of their largest audience of more than 5,000 members. But before the sisters stepped into the limelight, their first performance began with small audience at their church. “Our first unofficial show I guess was for the holidays,” Smith said. “We had to sing for any holiday that came up at

Gymnasts to ﬂip for awareness on Friday PINK FROM PAGE 1 Once she took in all the sorority had to offer, Sarah told Jessie, “You go have fun; I have to go rewrite a speech.” She spent the rest of the day in her hotel room working on a speech she would deliver to 850 collegiate and alumnae Zeta Tau Alpha Convention attendees. The theme of the weekend was “triple crown” and Sarah drew inspiration from there. She spoke about the triple crown she had experienced in a three month span – winning her sixth national championship with husband David, watching her younger daughter Jordan win Alabama’s first national championship in school history and being able to take a trip with Jessie. “You’ve heard my mom when she gets going,” Jessie said. “It’s so cool.” And as Jessie puts it, “There

By Rich Robinson Staff Reporter

IF YOU GO... • What: Anointed Brown Sisters • When: Sunday, Jan. 27 • Where: The Bama Theatre the church and that’s how we became a group.” On Sunday, Jan. 27, the Anointed Brown Sisters will perform their annual appreciation concert at the Bama Theatre. The performance, which is held on the last Sunday in January, has become a tradition for the past 14 years. The doors will open at 4 p.m. with the show beginning at 5 p.m., and tickets are $25 in advance at Rollins Mortuary and $30 the day of the show. Other featured artists who will be performing at the show will be Doc McKenzie and the HiLites, Tim Rogers and the Fellas, Lisa Knowles and the Brown Singers, Blest by Four, and the Blessed Brothers. “We know that it’s the anointing that makes the difference in your ministry,” Smith said. “That singing is a ministry, that singing is uplifting and if you come seeking, you will get what you are looking for.”

wasn’t a dry eye in the house.” Still, Patterson’s speech received more than hugs and tears. “The Foundation board was sitting together near the front. We were so moved by her speech and her dedication to the Power of Pink that we knew we had to make a significant donation,” said ZTA Foundation President Becky Kirwan. “Our brief conversation started with $5,000 and by the time we went around the table, we decided it had to be $25,000.” “That was probably one of the most rewarding times of starting this Power of Pink, seeing this group donate and recognize it. They’re not even from Tuscaloosa, but this money goes to disadvantaged women in West Alabama,” Sarah said. That is the impact of Sarah Patterson. But more importantly, that is the Power of Pink.

After last week’s rare Tuscaloosa snowstorm, some students at The University of Alabama were questioning how the University makes decisions regarding the cancellation of class. The University did not cancel classes until 3:15 p.m. via a UA Emergency Alert. UA spokeswoman Cathy Andreen said that the decision to cancel classes is made based on weather conditions, weather forecasts, road conditions and other factors. Additionally, the University’s Emergency Policy Group makes the final decision about whether to cancel class. “The Emergency Preparedness and Response Policy Group includes the Provost, the Vice President for Financial Affairs,

Faculty, students deal with relocation TEN HOOR FROM PAGE 1 “The faculty offices being moved really makes you feel ostracized from the department, but improvement in ten Hoor is welcome,” Malia Bunt, a senior majoring in anthropology, said. Lynne Adrian, chair of the American studies department, said she is working to prevent students from feeling disconnected. “We’re all a little

doesn’t matter. Even the gymnasts don’t matter to a certain degree, as they are stripped of their accolades and introduced as “Ashley Priess with a two-month breast cancer survivor,” or “Kim Jacob with a 20-year cancer survivor.” For one night, the Alabama gymnasts put off their hopes of scoring 9.9s and flip only for awareness. Only the 18 survivors matter in the grand scheme of things, as a brief part of their struggle is told in front of thousands of fans, cheering, in this instance, for the cause and not the sport. It’s an opportunity these women may not have been afforded if not for the efforts of Patterson and others who capitalized on a chance to do something bigger than themselves. “I’ve always thought that if one person walks out of Coleman Coliseum on Friday night and they thought more about it or they go get a test and it brings awareness, then Focus on the Cause all the effort, time and energy For one night, the opponent we’ve placed into it is a good

the Vice President for Student Affairs, the Assistant Vice President for Public Safety and the Assistant Vice President for University Relations,” Andreen said in an emailed statement. Andreen said the University’s emergency preparedness office tracks weather information from the National Weather Service, which factors into the final decision on whether to cancel classes. “Each situation is evaluated based on the information

that is available at the time,” Andreen said. Ellen Meade is a freshman majoring in education from San Diego, Calif.; she had never seen snow before last week’s powdering. With no experience with that type of weather, Meade looked to the University for direction, which she found lacking. “I think a lot of people were confused because they didn’t know if they should go to their morning classes or not, but most people I know who had

earlier classes went anyway,” Meade said. “I thought it was weird that they cancelled class after 3:15 when the most dangerous time for students driving was before then,” John Connor Dykes, a sophomore majoring in economics and math, said. “It seemed like they waited too long, and then when they cancelled classes it was like, ‘Why are they doing this now? Why not just finish out the day?’” However, Jordan McMillan, a junior majoring in public relations, thought the University handled the snow day well. “I think the University just took the precautions they needed to. They don’t see a lot of snow down here, so when they do, they probably expect the worst,” McMillan said. “And honestly, I didn’t mind not going to class on Thursday.”

concerned about missing students,” Adrian said. “So much of what the department needs to do is be in contact with students. If they can’t find us, it’s hard for us to do that. We’re just trying to get the message out that we really are still here. We really want to talk to students. Teachers are making an extra effort to talk with students before and after class, or making arrangements to get coffee on campus. They’re coming up with creative ways to get in contact, so students don’t get lost, but it’s hard.”

However, Bunt said she dislikes the relocation for another reason. The faculty offices were not originally intended for academic uses. “If you’re a freshman trying to declare a major, you see a sink where a doctor used to wash his hands,” Bunt said. “They’re in all the faculty offices, so you can’t get away from the creepiness.” Other departments with offices and classrooms in ten Hoor have also moved classes to different buildings. However, Keikhosrow Moshiri, a junior majoring in

philosophy, said he does not mind the change of scenery. “I’d rather have my classes here in Lloyd because it’s easier to get to, and ten Hoor smells unpleasant,” Moshiri said. Although there were some difficulties, the renovations were well received by some of the affected departments. “Certainly we’re glad they’re renovating ten Hoor – it needs it. We’re sorry to have to go through the work of moving, but we knew it was time for ten Hoor to get some renovations,” Adrian said.

The Emergency Preparedness and Response Policy Group includes the Provost, the Vice President for Financial Affairs, the Vice President for Student Affairs, the Assistant Vice President for Public Safety and the Assistant Vice President for University Relations — Cathy Andreen

thing,” Sarah said. The Power of Pink has raised awareness and a total of $1.35 million for the DCH Breast Cancer Fund, including $104,400 raised since last year and the $25,000 Zeta Tau Alpha National Foundation donated in Sarah Patterson’s name this summer. “I’ve been to all different types of people about this and no one has ever said no,” Sarah said. “If you ask why, it’s because everybody knows someone that has been affected.” The pink movement takes over the University and the city of Tuscaloosa in the spring. What started with UA art professor Craig Wedderspoon and a group from the University lighting the front of Coleman Coliseum pink prior to the 2010 Power of Pink has grown year-byyear. This year, Wedderspoon and company will light the Coliseum pink along with several Tuscaloosa landmarks (including the Bama Theatre downtown), businesses and

University properties such as sorority row, while Duane Lamb, Alabama’s assistant vice president for Facilities & Grounds Operations, has led the way in lighting such campus landmarks as Denny Chimes and the Ferguson Center fountain in pink. “People work night and day to get this done and everybody keeps helping to make it grow,” Sarah said. “I think it’s great for people to have a cause.” Ten of Alabama’s 11 female varsity sports will compete in “pink” games, meets or matches. While the Pattersons and Alabama don’t officially get credit for starting the pink movement, since the first meet in 2005, more than three dozen of the nation’s top gymnastics programs have either hosted or participated in a pink meet, including every member of the SEC. The Women’s Basketball Coaches Association started its pink initiative in 2007 and encouraged its members to participate in a Think Pink week.

Women’s soccer, volleyball and even the NFL and Major League Baseball have openly picked up the cause.

Facing No. 15 Kentucky Once the tears are shed and the celebration settles, a competition will take place. The two-time defending NCAA Champion Alabama gymnastics hosts No. 15 Kentucky on Friday, Jan. 25 in the Crimson Tide’s ninth annual Power of Pink meet. Alabama faced Kentucky in the 2011 Power of Pink meet on Feb. 18. While most wouldn’t be able to fight back the emotions and perform under the pressure, it fuels these gymnasts. “I just feel like it’s an opportunity to not put so much pressure on ourselves and recognize people who have real concerns,” senior Ashley Sledge said. “They’re fighting for their lives and their families. It’s bigger than Alabama and Kentucky. It’s a movement and an honor to be a part of it.”

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Green Bar hosts Athens-based band Dank Sinatra Band returning to Tuscaloosa Friday draws from rock, blues, jazz, funk, electronic, jam and genres By Francie Johnson Contributing Writer

They may be University of Georgia graduates, but the members of Athens, Ga. based jam band Dank Sinatra will be saying, “Roll Dank Roll” when they perform at the Green Bar this Friday. Dank Sinatra features Clint Meadows on bass, Matt Henderson on keyboard and vocals, Joe Gaines on guitar and vocals and Josh Birmingham on drums. The band members met through mutual friends at The University of Georgia and formed Dank Sinatra in spring 2010. With a musical style that defies ordinary genre descriptions, Dank Sinatra blends elements of rock, blues, jazz, funk, electronic, jam and soul, creating a sound that is difficult to categorize. However, the band members don’t focus on labeling their sound; they focus on creating it. “We don’t really think about [labels] too much,” Meadows said. “We try to keep pushing ourselves and evolving our sound as a group.” For the members of Dank Sinatra, the process of

writing music and developing the band’s style is a collaborative effort. “We’ve written songs in different ways. Often times it will be a collective effort with everyone, or a few members at a time, writing parts together usually based on an initial riff or jam,” Henderson said. “We like to have times at practice where we can jam around and try to come up with different ideas together.” Dank Sinatra released its first full-length album, “Just Charlesin’,” in July 2011, following the 2010 release of the five-song EP titled “Papa Mountain.” During the recording process for “Just Charlesin’,” Dank Sinatra aimed to recreate the thrill and excitement of playing in front of an audience. “Recording can be pretty tedious and time-consuming, but it’s a great feeling to get new music recorded,” Meadows said. “We like to record together as a band with a more live-show feel to help capture the energy of playing together.” This Friday won’t be Dank Sinatra’s first time performing in Tuscaloosa. The band

performed at the Green Bar in June 2012. “We had a great experience in Tuscaloosa,” Henderson said. “We always love coming to Tuscaloosa because of the great tradition in the town.” In addition to playing shows throughout the Southeast, Dank Sinatra played at the 2012 Wakarusa Music Festival in Ozark, Ark. “It’s definitely a lot more exciting performing at a festival [than performing at a normal venue] because everyone there enjoys music and wants to hear new music,” Meadows said. “But there is also added pressure because you want to perform well on a bigger stage to a new audience.” Dank Sinatra’s repertoire includes a variety of both original and cover songs, including covers of the Rolling Stones, the Talking Heads, Paul Simon, Outkast and many other artists. The band has an unusual way of selecting songs to cover, Gaines said. “We put a bunch of song choices in a hat, and then we each draw one. After two selections are made each, we then play the songs that are remaining in the hat,”

danksinatramusic.com

Dank Sinatra will be playing at Green Bar on Friday, Jan. 25.

Gaines said. Several of the band members are working on their own side projects outside of Dank Sinatra. Henderson is putting together a band that will only play Mario Kart songs, Meadows has been producing tracks with A$AP Rocky and Spaceghost Purp, and Gaines is in a Poison cover band

called Venom. However, the band members make sure to save time for Dank Sinatra. “We have a bunch of new songs we’ve been writing and playing live, and we’re heading into the studio in February to start recording a new release, which we’re really excited about,” Henderson said.

Dank Sinatra will be performing at the Green Bar on Friday, Jan. 25. The show starts at 10 p.m., and the cover charge is $5. For more information on Dank Sinatra, visit www. danksinatramusic.com, and to listen to “Just Charlesin,” visit danksinatramusic.bandcamp. com.

COLUMN | GAMING

Middle ground video games lose footing, franchises disappear in economy By Nathan Proctor

Production quality has never determined entertainment value in entertainment. In reality, the majority of my favorite games from my childhood and our current generation were flawed, broken or otherwise outwardly mediocre. I love A- and B-tier games. Despite their nomenclature, this labeling is not of a qualitative nature, but in its financing. High concept and highly funded “blockbuster” or AAA games are growing to define

the landscaping of mainstream development. It’s these titles reaching the widest possible audience and easily iterated upon that allow developers and publishers to stay in the black. For this reasoning, many have lamented the death of the “B-tier” game, products often defined by a few interesting conceits or mechanics saddled by technical failings or budgetary constraints (see: Freedom Fighters, Earth Defense Force 2017 and Deadly Premonition.) These games are very rarely actually unprofit-

able, but within an industry plagued by a weakened economy necessitating higher profit margins, only industry giants can take the “risk” of funding projects more likely critical darlings than mainstream successes. More striking however, are signs the single – A middle ground may be losing its footing. Though its failings are not wholly the fault of its mainstream products, (much is the fault of poor management and the Udraw gaming tablet catastrophe) seeing THQ fold and sell off its IPs is

in a way shocking. Producers of A quality, but not massive hits, they were unable to pull themselves from the brink of bankruptcy, despite a recent fleet of high quality games and successful franchises. Metro, Company of Heroes, Warhammer 40k and the Saints Row franchises were well-made games that sold well and innovated in the industry, yet could not right the ship of a well-known, longtime studio. Large corporations such as the monoliths of EA and Activision can afford to push out titles earning less,

but even they have little interest in doing so, each making their own business-centric statements regarding the requirements of franchise and multiplayer options. A future where large studios can only produce highquality games, be they in the vein of a more innovative Mass Effect or that of a dragging Call of Duty series, and indie and mobile development continues to thrive is far from Dystopian. It makes business sense, still provides an avenue for creativity and growth, and raises the bar for accessibility

and general polish. That said, I’ll truly be sad to see it go. Unsuccessful but interesting games have long inspired future developments (see: Killswitch) and guilty pleasures, (see: embarrassingly enough, Aliens vs. Predator: Extinction.) It may not be the end of the industry as we know it, and the PC market alone may continue to sustain a great variety of niche titles, but as we shed our current generation of gaming, I shed a silent tear for the dearly departed intriguingly mediocre game. RIP, my friend.

COLUMN | TELEVISION

HBO’s ‘GIRLS’ creator, Lena Dunham, could become voice of our generation By Colby Leopard

Turn on some Santigold and prepare to have your mind blown by, you guessed it, reality because “Girls” is back in town. Created and produced by Lena Dunham, the second season of HBO’s “Girls” premiered last Sunday, and wasted no time in reviving the job hunts, romances and friendship of the season one cast. Set in New York City, Hannah Horvath, played by Dunham, rides the ups and downs of life as the liberal arts degree-

holding writer that is destined to become “the voice of [her] generation.” With Judd Apatow returning as the show’s executive producer, the first two episodes of season two bring back the witty dialogue and outrageous situational irony, but with it come a few new, darker aspects of the show. At the end of season one, Hannah finally sees the flaws and unhealthy nature of her relationship with on-again-offagain boyfriend Adam Sackler, a step in the right direction for Hannah. Although

hysterically lovable, Adam is hard to see as a good person for Hannah to date because of certain character flaws, such as immaturity and his lack of respect toward females. In episode one of season two, viewers aren’t surprised Hannah has seemingly moved on to a new relationship with Sandy, a black man and selfproclaimed Republican. This is where things turn dark. Despite having every intention of starting and maintaining a healthy, balanced relationship with Sandy, Hannah is pressured by her

friends to see him for what he is: a Republican. Hannah’s roommate Elijah Krantz, an ex-boyfriend turned gay, is especially antagonistic of Sandy for not supporting gay rights. The entire conflict raises questions of race, sexuality and allegiance in Hannah’s life, all subjects that apply to social issues that we face in real-life America today. Despite her friends’ disapproval of her relationship with Sandy, Hannah maintains that it does not matter to her that she is dating a black

Republican, and she does not think about race or political affiliation. Hannah’s character epitomizes the trendy, culturally savvy hipster generation in her words, but ultimately fails in her actions. With the cleverly written dialogue that only Dunham could deliver to such palpable issues, Hannah is forced to confront Sandy about their differences in the second episode of season two. As she fumbles through a list of their relationship flaws with her awkward, white girl mannerisms Sandy sees that Hannah is not ready

to date someone as different as he is. The relevant material season two of “Girls” has brought to the table after just two episodes is immense and has certainly set its viewers up for an entertaining and fulfilling ride. For now I will have to disagree with Hannah’s prediction from the show’s first episode. I don’t believe she is the voice of her generation. But with a Primetime Emmy and two Golden Globes to her name after just one season, Lena Dunham just might be.

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Page 11 Editor | Marquavius Burnett crimsonwhitesports@gmail.com Thursday, January 24, 2013

GYMNASTICS

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Pinkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; meet to honor breast cancer survivors By Marquavius Burnett Sports Editor

Bell, Amy Crossland, Shantel Dillard, Caroline Fulmer, Coleen Kern, Judy McCrory, This Friday, 18 survivors Donna McJenkins, Vicki will be honored prior to the Santina, Ivette Steadman, Pam meet, including Ann Wilhide Washington, Doris West, Jane Dziadon and Allie Green Hayes, Wilson and Akeba Vester. members of Sarah and David A total of 18 breast cancer surPattersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first recruiting vivors were introduced alongclass. Dziadon, Hayes and David side the gymnasts and coaches Pattersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mother, Shirley prior to the 2010 AlabamaCook will be joined by Bonita Arizona meet on Feb. 19, includAnderson, Jessica Bailey, Kayce ing David Pattersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mother,

Shirley Cook, Becca Alexinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aunt, LeAnn Cannon and Ashley Sledgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aunt, Patricia Davis. Those three were joined in the spotlight on the floor of Coleman Coliseum by Linda Bell, Verta Barr Meherg, Ann Webb, Doris Weems, Lucille Ducarpe, Donna Farmer, Donna Galloway, Priscilla Hutchins, Vicki Pendley, Shelley Michaels, Carol Moore Smith, Catherine Morton, Sandra Keith, Linda

Plowman Fikes and Joan Spiller Ashcraft. Two at a time, gymnast and survivor, their names were called with fireworks exploding each time, adding additional poignancy to an already inspirational night. In 2011, prior to the Tideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seventh annual Power of Pink/ Drive 4 the Cause meet, 18 survivors were again introduced and honored, including Ann Wilhide Dziadon, a member of

Sarah and David Pattersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first recruiting class and a fouryear cancer survivor. Dziadon and David Pattersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mother, Shirley Cook, were joined by Doris Weems, Lucille Ducarpe, Brenda Hill, Beverly Laird, Jo Davis, Carol Smitherman, Ellie Duncan, Kim Wolbach, Linda Ogletree, Judy Livingston, Lynn Purser, Regena Payne, Lynn Giles, Pat Toxey, Kristy Miley and Charlotte Harris.

The 2012 survivors, honored prior to the Alabama-Arkansas meet on Feb. 18 included Paulette Dillard, Shirley Cook, Lynn Purser, Jami Patrick, Rebecca Depiazza, Kate Brinkley, Maggie Lee, Peggy Reed, Joann Barden, Vicki Santina, Beverly Nickerson, Jean Each, Jan Livingston Leopard, Shiann Norris, Josephine Hollins, Kay Corbin, Lucille Decarpe and Carol Sue Jenkins.

National Champiomship Hats In! Shantel Dillard

Caroline Fulmer

Pam Washington

Academic services associate for The University of Alabama student registrar Diagnosed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; March 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Graduation from radiationâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; September 2012 What Power of Pink means to her? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x153;When youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on the other side of the pink, you try to do what you can to help others and try to understand what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going through. But when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on this side of the pink, when it actually happens to you, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overwhelming. What Sarah and others have done is just overwhelming. When my daddy died of cancer 22 years ago, there was nothing like this. Now, the programs they have for survivors are awesome.â&#x20AC;?

Assistant professor of consumer services Diagnosed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; May 2005 Bilateral Mastectomyâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;No radiation, surgery to remove all of her breast tissue on both sides What Power of Pink means to her? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Regardless of what the event is that honors breast cancer, I always thought it was a great cause. But when it happens to you, you understand how important the research is, and you understand how important it is to get good local care. The Power of Pink meet has facilitated the opportunity for so many women in West Alabama to have excellent care and top-notch doctors. The Power of Pink is so close to my heart. The first time I went to a pink meet after I was a breast cancer survivor and they asked all the survivors to stand, I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stand. Now I stand proudly.â&#x20AC;?

Secretary to Tuscaloosaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chief of police Diagnosed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; March 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Graduation from radiationâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; May 2011 What Power of Pink means to her? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x153;For me, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s almost like another Christmas. To be able to recognize that as another day to celebrate is sort of like Christmas. All of the different breast cancer awareness events are like Christmas for me. You get to see all of the people support you, thousands and thousands of people supporting you, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like opening presents. How great is that?â&#x20AC;?

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Power of Pink Gymnastics alumnae among honored survivors By Marquavius Burnett Sports Editor

it gives people awareness, but more importantly it gives people hope. We are all aware that people die of breast cancer. When you look around at the people that are there, it gives newly diagnosed people hope and lets them know that there is a support system and you can survive. It gives people who’ve been survivors for a long time the opportunity to give back and offer encouragement for others.

Among the 18 survivors reconized at the pink meet will be Allie Green Hayes and Ann Wilhide Dziadon from Sarah and David Patterson’s first recruiting class. Hayes was diagnosed in 1996, Dziadon was diagnosed in 2005.

Ann Wilhide Dziadon Crimson White: What were your thoughts when you first heard Sarah and David were doing the “pink” meets? Ann Wilhide Dziadon: When they first started doing it, I thought it was a great idea. I was really happy to see that they were giving back. Everyone knows someone who has been affected by this disease and they took it upon themselves to help others in a time of need.

UA Athletics

Ann Wilhide Dziadon practices during her time on the gymnastic team in the 1980s.

Submitted

Ann Wilhide Dziadon

from Pensacola offered to drive me up. I think that was probwhat they went through with ably what gave me the strength David’s cancer. It’s a hard thing from the very beginning. All to say, but I think it’s an even of the alumni were there and harder thing to hear. I knew were very supportive. I knew they needed to know, but I also from that moment on, if I needknow how they felt when they ed anything, I had people there CW: What was the conversa- heard those words. fighting for me. tion like when you told Sarah and David you had breast canCW: You come back every CW: What was the reception cer? like during your first trip back year. What are some things AWD: After I told my imme- to Alabama? you and some of the other surdiate family, Sarah and David AWD: I came back before my vivors talk about or share with were the first people I called. first surgery. It was after my each other when you come to It was a difficult conversa- first chemotherapy treatment. town? tion, especially considering Two of my very dear friends AWD: More than anything

Allie Green Hayes Crimson White: How were David and Sarah when you told them you had breast cancer? Allie Green Hayes: They were great. It was unbelievable because they were starting their cancer journey around the same time I was. They were very, very supportive and sent me things about healing. They were wonderful. CW: You were able to make it back for the first “pink” meet. What was that like? AGH: I made it back for the very first one in 2005. It was amazing and very gratifying to see what Sarah and David had done to use their position to give back to the com-

Submitted

From left to right: Grace (daughter). Greg (husband), Allie, Tim (son) and Sophia (daughter) pose during a family outing.

munity and raise money and do the “Race for the Cure” awareness for breast cancer. every year. It was very emotional for all CW: What are you looking of us and such an awesome forward to most about this experience. year’s “pink” meet? AGH: My husband is comCW: What are some things you’re doing now to raise ing to Alabama for the first time and I’m excited to show awareness? AGH: I do a program called him the campus and where I “Reach for Recovery” in which did gymnastics. I can’t wait to I reach out to other women see some of my former teamwho have breast cancer, espe- mates and catch up with them. cially women who were diag- I’ll also get to meet some of the nosed when they were young. I survivors and share stories. I try to help them through their get to the see the gymnastics, process. My family and I also which should be a great show.

Coach Patterson, family recall personal cancer struggles By Marquavius Burnett Sports Editor David Patterson and his family have had a few battles with cancer. His mother, Shirley Cook, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1991, and he was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 1996 at the age of 37. Both are survivors and spend their time helping others and providing counsel to cancer patients and survivors when needed. During our time, we spoke about his mother’s fight, how he helps other survivors and how a painful accident saved his life. The Crimson White: How much more invested were you and Sarah in this considering your mother is a breast cancer survivor? David Patterson: It definitely hit home for us. For a while, my mother was a single mom, working and going to school. I was the oldest of four boys, so I had to step in and help her out with my brothers when she was busy. I always had a special relationship with her, and this has brought us even closer. CW: Times were a lot

everybody is willing to talk about it. We know several people that lost their fights to breast cancer because they felt a lump, but were afraid to say anything. They waited too long before they said anything. Now, there’s so much open dialogue. Everybody talks about how you need to do your selfexams and go to the doctor and get checked. The openness about it, as well as the medical advances, makes it a lot better for everyone and people are less fearful.

CW: Now, your situation was a little different. You found out after an accident in which you broke your rib and had a random test. Take me through that. DP: It was an ultra sound. In August of 1996, we were moving into this facility. I was moving some equipment and fell off a loading dock and broke my rib. Our team doctor, Jimmy Robinson, saw how physical our practices were with spotting the girls. So he said, “Before you start spotting again, let me give you an ultrasound.” Back CW: When Sarah wasn’t then, if they did an ultrasound able to pass her mammo- on one kidney, they had to do it grams, what were some of the on the other. It was my left rib thoughts that ran through that was broken and they found your mind? the cancer in my right kidney. DP: I never felt like it would be life-threatening for her, and CW: Fast forward a little, you maybe that’s not rational, but guys start the “pink” meets. she had done what she needed You’re cancer-free, and your to and gotten checked. I had mom is cancer-free. In 2010, you seen my mom and some other get to walk her out as a survipeople fight through breast vor for the first time at a “pink” cancer. Then there was my own meet. I don’t know if you can Submitted experience with cancer, which put it into words, but describe David and his mother, Shirley Cook, at the 2010 pink meet. was a difficult six months, but the emotions you felt, knowwe got through that. There was ing the battles you both went different when your mom was ences you see between now and a lot of fear for the unknown, through to get to that point. but I never got to the point diagnosed from an awareness during that time? DP: It is tough to put into and research standpoint. What DP: I think one of the big- where I feared for her life. words. That is one of my most are some of the biggest differ- gest differences I see is that emotional nights of the year

when we get to stand up there together, realizing we are both survivors. I feel like God has more plans for me because I know plenty of great people that are not here anymore after losing their battles with cancer. For me personally, it’s a challenge to live my life well, stay in close touch with family and friends, and enjoy everyone’s company because it can be taken away tomorrow.

CW: What are some of the things you and the group of women share together, knowing you all fought a battle with cancer? DP: There is that bond you immediately feel. I’ve been very open about my experience, so I’ll have people call me and say “Hey I have a friend that was diagnosed and doesn’t know what to do. Will you talk to them?” I’ve been more than willing to do that because no matter what cancer it is, we all have the same fears. We all think, “How long am I going to live?” or “Am I going to be able to see my kids finish school or get married?” So it’s easy for me to understand what a lot of them have been going through.

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Thursday, January 24, 2013 | Page 13

Crimson Tide ‘Power of Pink’ meet by the numbers By Marquavius Burnett Sports Editor

| Alabama is a perfect 18-0 when competing in pink leotards. The Tide opened the season with Missouri’s Pink Out on Jan. 11. Following this Friday’s Power of Pink meet against Kentucky, Alabama will also compete in pink at LSU on March 8.

1.35 25,000

| $1.35 million has been raised for the DCH Breast Cancer Fund since The Power of Pink’s inception in 2005.

| The Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation made a $25,000 contribution to the Power of Pink after Sarah Patterson was the keynote speaker at their 2012 International Convention. ZTA’s national philanthropy is breast cancer education and awareness.

| Three checks will presented at this year’s Power of Pink gymnastics meet – one for $104,400 designating the amount raised since last year, another for $1.35 million covering the total amount raised to this point, and a third for $25,000 representing the amount the Zeta Tau Alpha National Foundation donated to the DCH Breast Cancer Fund in Sarah Patterson’s name this summer.

| For the fourth consecutive year, breast cancer survivors from the West Alabama area will be introduced in the spotlight in conjunction with the gymnasts prior to the meet. Among the 17 survivors will be Allie Green Hayes and Ann Wilhide Dziadon from Sarah and David Patterson’s first recruiting class.

120,000

| Over the past eight years more than 120,000 fans have filled Coleman Coliseum with pink for the annual event, including an Alabama and Southeastern Conference record 15,162 fans in 2006 and matching sellouts of 15,075 in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2012. CW | Austin Bigoney

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HOROSCOPES Today’s Birthday (01/24/13). The first six months of 2013 are especially creative; set financial goals to take advantage. All this energy is attractive, too. Your social life bounces. Travel and explore. Work really begins to pay off. Build healthy practices to keep you thriving all year. 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 9 -- Keep your objective in mind and focus. Distractions could trigger an emotional breakdown. Cooperate with one who has what you lack. You get a secret surprise. Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 6 -- You’re extra brilliant for the next few days. Others may object to a plan, so devise a persuasive argument and dress it glamorously. Get to work and leave celebrations for later. Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is a 6 -- The next phase could be profitable and perfect for traveling, more fun with a partner. Imagine a future goal realized. It’s a good time to win debates. Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 9 -- You’re awesome and extremely creative, even under pressure. And you’re getting stronger. Look forward to two days in the spotlight. Dream a special dream. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is a 5 -- If you’re going to worry, do it effectively and where you can make a difference. Some of your best work comes from confronting the difficulties and realities of bootstrapping it.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is a 9 -- You’re doing a great job with what you have; search for allies anyway. You don’t have to go at it alone. Imagine your space reorganized. Love your friends. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Practice obedience, and get stronger. Team projects go well. Accept spiritual encouragement, and open the door to a romantic adventure. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is an 8 -- Break out of your shell and shatter your next ceiling. Expansion can be sustainable if done with respect for the shared environment. Explore the outdoors. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is a 7 -- Now’s a good time to pay bills and complete past homework. In the face of controversy, consider another perspective. Use what you’ve learned to cut costs. Share your ideas. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is an 8 -- Update your skills and make inroads quietly. You don’t have to brag about your accomplishments. Just believe in yourself and continue pedaling forward. Keep the balance. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 7 -- Somebody very interesting finds you fascinating; stay cool. Don’t go shopping for treats yet. Focus on making money for a few days instead. In the meantime, primp. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is an 8 -- By now you should have done the homework. If you haven’t, don’t put it off anymore. Move up the ladder with increased confidence. What kind of world do you want? Build bridges and alliances.

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5ks ALABAMA KRISPY KREME RUN

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THE COLOR RUN

WARRIOR DASH

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Participants i t in i the th Krispy K i Kreme K Challenge Ch ll test their physical fitness by running a several-mile course to a Krispy Kreme store, eating one dozen doughnuts, and then running back to the finish line – 12 doughnuts, 2,400 calories and several miles later.

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Page 14 . Thursday, January 24, 2013 Editor Lauren Ferguson Assistant Editor Katherine Owen

For those willing to brave the Warrior Dash, at least 12 obstacles stand between them and the finish line, where they will be rewarded with a medal, snacks and water. After the race, beer and food is provided onsite for participants as well as various events such as axe-throwing, fireworks and chainsaw carving displays.

By Courtney Stinson Staff Reporter The goal may be to escape “zombies” or get off the couch. It might be to get as much color on your body as possible, and it might be to support a cause. Regardless, for many 5k runners today, winning the race isn’t the point. For them, the point is the feeling of community and sense of personal accomplishment. Lifelong runner and Athlete’s Foot employee Ed Freeman said 5k races have grown in popularity as a social exercise because the relatively short distance, 3.1 miles, that makes them accessible to participants of many ages and fitness levels. Freeman said Tuscaloosa 5ks usually attract 75 to 150 participants, a number that allows most participants to perform well in their age groups. “A 5k is a very family-friendly distance,” Freeman said. “A kid that’s 7 or 8 can do a 5k. I’m 55 and I enjoy doing them.” 5ks may also be growing in popularity because of their frequency. Runners can find one in which to participate nearly every weekend, Freeman said. In 2011, the Tuscaloosa Track Club listed 17 5ks in its schedule in Tuscaloosa, not including surrounding areas. Last year, the club listed 21 5ks in Tuscaloosa. Races are held yearround, though more are held during cooler months in the fall and spring. Joining 5k races has become a way to get in shape, especially with programs like “Couch to 5k,” as they allow participants to establish concrete goals. Freeman said 5k runners can think of themselves as athletes in training, which is more fulfilling than getting in shape for the sake of getting in shape. “If you’re out there and you’ve gone through this with some of your friends and it’s exciting that day and you attain your goal, that’s a lot more motivating,” Freeman said. Allison Terrell, a junior majoring in public relations, enjoys running 5ks with her family as way for them to bond and provide support for one another. “I absolutely love running 5ks with my family,” she said. “We have made it a tradition where every Saturday before Easter we run a 5k together as a family. Since I don’t get to see my brother so much, I love being able to spend some time with him along with my mom and dad. It turns into more of a family competition.” Though winning the race may not be the goal for many, 5ks do not lack in competitiveness. Many participants, like Terrell, focus on personal goals such as competing against themselves and their

Upcoming Runs Furry Friend 5k When: April 13 Where: Kentuck Park, Northport, Ala. Cost: $40 Register: www.furryfriend5k.com

Krispy Kreme Challenge When: Feb. 16 Where: Bryant Drive, Tuscaloosa, Ala. Cost: $25 now, $35 day of event Register: http://tuscaloosakrispykremechallenge. eventbrite.com

Warrior Dash When: Nov. 2 Where: Munny Sokol Park, Northport, Ala. Cost: $50 Register: http://www.warriordash.com

In the Color Run, runners begin the race wearing a plain white t-shirt and end with one splattered in color. Each kilometer of the run has a designated color, and as the runner passes through each zone, they are splattered with color by staff, sponsors and volunteers, earning the name “The Happiest 5k on the Planet.”

friends or families. “In races, my competitiveness comes out and I am focused on trying to get a good time,” Terrell said. “Sometimes I pick out a person in front of me to keep up with or either pass as I run. I think it’s just part of my nature where anytime I am doing something competitive, I want to do well. It’s not really about winning, just more that I want to do my best and get my best time.” Daniel Burton, a sophomore majoring in mechanical engineering, has run in several 5k races. He echoed Freeman’s statement, and said sharing the 5k experience with others is more motivating than running alone. “A lot of times, when you’re running by yourself, it’s easy to give up, but when you see the guy next to you is pushing, it drives you to push a little bit harder, too,” he said. Alongside encouragement, Burton said running with others fosters community among the participants. “People really empathize over shared experiences, and you’re sharing 20 minutes to an hour with people that you’ve never met before,” Burton said. “You even feel connected with the spectators that are cheering you on as you go by, and it’s a great social connection.” In addition to providing participants with fitness motivation, many 5k races reward participants with social activities that allow runners to meet and bond over their experiences, adding to the overall sense of community. “Most 5ks host similar activities after the race including door prizes, snacks and other activities that really give the runners a chance to socialize with each other and have some fun after all of their hard work,” Terrell said. Over the years, the races have been held as a way to raise money for charity and social causes, like the Paint the Town Pink 5k for breast cancer awareness that took place in Tuscaloosa on Saturday. For some runners, it does not matter as much what the cause is, but supporting a cause adds more meaning to running a 5k. For others, knowing what cause they are supporting through their 5k registration fees, which typically range from $10 to $25, is a significant reason for participation. Through the Tuscaloosa Track Club, Freeman said he, as well as many other local runners, has been able to support a variety of charity organizations throughout the year. “It’s like we weren’t supporting one cause during the year, but we supported 50 causes,” he said. To find 5ks in Tuscaloosa, potential participants can visit their website tuscaloosatrackclub.com or through the special events tab on the Tuscaloosa Park and Recreation Authority’s website tcpara.org.

THE UNDIE RUN Huntsville

Sporting the motto “bare because we care” this 5k race challenges college students to strip down at the starting line and run in their underwear, plain and simple. The clothing shed at the start is then donated to charity, and to date, The Undie Run has collected over 50,000 pounds of clothing. The 2013 schedule of college towns has not been listed, but Alabama may hope that one of its universities gets to be the host of this revealing race.

Warrior

Birmingham

TURKEY TROT For those looking to burn off some calories, or to rev up their metabolism before Thanksgiving dinner, the Turkey Trot offers that and more. This family oriented event allows participants to run or walk in turkey-inspired costumes, and support the communities and charities as well.

Tuscaloosa

Fort Rucker

. FURRY FRIEND This 5k race allows runners and man’s best friend to compete side by side as a way to support local animal shelters. Referred to as the “funnest dog-gone 5k on the planet,” this race will be held in Northport, Ala., on April 13. All entrants will receive goodie bags at the finish line full of coupons and treats for both humans and dogs.