VOLLEYBALL Tide opens home season at Foster Auditorium. SPORTS PAGE 8
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Serving the University of Alabama since 1894
Vol. 119, Issue 14
NEWS | 2012 COWBOYS CLASSIC
UA oversells student seats by 50 percent _
1600 800 = 800
“Spirit Pass” Area
students who bought $50 tickets in the spring
students who recieved $50 tickets with seats on Aug. 27
students who recieved $35 “spirit passes” and a $15 refund
Cowboys Stadium stadium.da llasco wbo ys.c o
“
m
In the tweet of the moment 10+
20+
30+
40+ -40
-50
-30
-50
-40
-20
-30
Paid during the first opt in as a senior. Got there at 7:30. Nowhere did it say that not all that paid would get seats. - @bwfickenscher
-10
-20
The email did not indicate in any form that you may not get a physical seat even if you had already paid the $50. - @AlexMcNair
-10
informed of the situation in an email Friday, some said it was vague or confusing. Gracie Renfroe, a senior majoring in communicative By Rich Robinson and Melissa disorders, said she read the Brown email Friday. Her roommate CW Staff had work at 8 a.m., so they Eight hundred students were couldn’t arrive on time, but shocked Monday when they she didn’t understand at the received standing-room-only time that it would cost her passes, or “Spirit Passes,” for a seat. “The email the athletthis Saturday’s season opener against Michigan. University ics department sent out recently of Alabama about ticket At h l e t i c s sales was very sold 1,600 stuAll returning students had vague,” Renfroe dent tickets Michigan game tickets said. “I 100 perto Saturday’s cent think that Michigan game, offered to them. 1,600 rethey should have but only the sponded to the offer. re-allocated tickfirst 800 stuets according to dents to pick up — Doug Walker seniority. I think the tickets will when they saw have seats in that the number Dallas’ Cowboys of tickets available didn’t equal Stadium. “All returning students had the number they had originally Michigan game tickets offered distributed, they should have to them, 1,600 responded to the made an hour cutoff for physioffer,” said Doug Walker, asso- cal seat tickets just like every ciate athletic director for media other game and given everyone that fell below that hour cutoff relations. Walker was unable to com- standing-room-only tickets.” Renfroe, who was planning to ment at press time as to when UA became aware they had attend the game with her father oversold physical seats, but he and friends, is now searching said UA was allotted 25,800 tick- for someone to take over their ets to distribute. Student tick- hotel reservations rather than ets make up 6.1 percent of that lose hundreds of dollars. total. SEE TICKETS PAGE 5 Though students were
Students late to line or in class lose seats
40+
30+
20+
10+
on nt Section
After reading the sketchy email UA sent I called the ticket office and was promised a seat. I’m in standing - @AJ_Cabana room only.
on Alabama Section ent Section Alabama Student Section
If simply being in the ticket pool has “always” been the case then why were we led to believe we had - @drewbryant bought a ticket?
Michigan Section on Michigan Student Section
The problem is that they always wait until the last moment to pull these stunts. It’s outrageous. Fraudulent. - @taylornichols
Of the 25,800 tickets given to each school,
Band
Only 3.1% of total seats were given to students.
Standing Section
CW | Whitney Hendrix and Sarah Grace Moorehead
NEWS | BLACKBOARD LEARN
NEWS | STUDENT GRADES
UA starts move Add/Drop period ends Wednesday from eLearning to Blackboard “ Professors say W on transcript won’t hurt chances for employment, but several might By Allie Hulcher Contributing Writer
given our rich use of technology and growing enrollment.” According to Jennifer Greer, professor and chair of the By Jordan Cissell and Emily Luker journalism department, the University began piloting the CW Staff Blackboard Learn system in Many students who plan to the spring semester of 2012. print out lecture notes or have However, less than 20 classes to submit an assignment online participated in the switch at this semester may find them- that time, so most students selves navigating unfamiliar and professors have yet to be territory as The University exposed to the new program. of Alabama transistions from Approximately half of students’ classes the eLearning will transition online instructo Blackboard tional facilitaLearn during the tion program to ELearning is no longer able fall semester. the Blackboard to meet UA’s growth in “ D u r i n g Learn system. enrollment and in technolFall 2012, stuR a c h e l ogy use. dents will have Thompson, courses in both director of — Rachel Thompson Blackboard E m e r g i n g Learn and Instructional eLearning,” Technology, said the switch was largely prompt- Thompson said. “Starting ed by eLearning’s inability to Spring 2013, courses will only provide adequate support for be in Blackboard Learn.” Thompson advised students the University’s needs moving needing to save eLearning forward. “ELearning is no longer able course materials before the to meet UA’s growth in enroll- complete transition to visit the ment and in technology use, and Faculty Resource Center webeLearning will not be supported site for instructions. Greer said most profesby the vendor after December 2012, so the University had no sors in the journalism departchoice but to move to another ment have made the swap and system,” she said. “In compari- she personally switched from son to other options, Blackboard eLearning to Blackboard over Learn is the best available sys- the summer. tem to meet UA’s technical and SEE BLACKBOARD PAGE 5 academic needs, particularly
Outdated system to be cut by Spring 2013
“
er • Plea s
er • Plea
ap
ecycle this p
ap
er
INSIDE today’s paper
Wednesday is the last day for students to add or drop a class from their schedule with no consequences, but students have until midsemester to withdraw with a W on their transcript. A W is an indication that a student dropped a class without completing it or receiving a grade, something students need to do if they find their workload is too much or are struggling in a class. Ausharea Adams felt this pressure her freshman year.
She was taking 16 hours including a course in math, her weakest subject. She decided to drop the class with a W. She realizes now that she made a good decision. “I don’t feel too bad about it at all,” Adams said. “What’s done is done and I feel a lot better knowing I have a ‘W’ rather than an awful grade.” The University’s online catalog went on to say that students who are contemplating withdrawal should talk with their academic advisors. Wendy McMillian is the director of advising within the College of Arts and Sciences
and advises pre-law students. since been accepted into She stressed the importance graduate programs across of making the decision with the country. “It bothered me at first to an advisor’s advice at hand. “Some students don’t receive a W, but I’d rather receive a W understand the than an F,” implications of Cooper said. w i t h d r aw i n g Jon Corson, from courses It bothered me at first to a mathematics every semesreceive a W, but I’d rather professor, said ter,” she said. receive a W than an F. he has told stu“ H oweve r, dents to drop there are also — Owen Cooper his own classes. students that “I frequently think that one advise students W will keep that are enrolled them out of the graduate level program of in one of my courses to drop their choice. Neither attitude when it becomes obvious that the student is going to fail is healthy.” Owen Cooper graduated otherwise,” Corson said. from UA in 2011 with three Ws on his transcript. He has SEE WITHDRAW PAGE 5
CULTURE | THRIFT STORES
Pinterest inspires thrifty trend in shopping Vintage style, prices draw frugal students By Courtney Stinson Contributing Writer With the popularity of websites like Etsy and Pinterest rising and instability the only constant in the economy, what was once labeled “old” and “used” is becoming “vintage” and “thrifted.” Instead of buying clothing and furniture at department stores and boutiques, some students are opting to save money and find more distinctive items by hunting for hidden
treasure at consignment and thrift stores. Locally, one option for doing so is Déjà Vu Consignment Boutique. The store stocks thousands of items, many of them designer label, and regularly gets new merchandise. Debbie Fulgham, the store’s owner, said both the economy and the Internet have affected the world of consignment shopping. Déjà Vu has gone online and expanded the store three times in as many years to accommodate these changes.
CW | Caitlin Trotter
SEE THRIFT STORES PAGE 5
Rather than paying higher prices, students are finding the latest styles at thrift stores.
Briefs ........................2
Sports .......................8
Opinions ...................4
Puzzles......................9
Culture ...................... 6
Classifieds ................ 9
WEATHER today
Chance of T-storms
86º/75º
Wednesday 86º/73º T-storms
cl e recy this p se
GO ON THE
ONLINE
ON THE CALENDAR TODAY
WEDNESDAY
What: International Expressions highlighting Greek Culture
What: Capstone Conversations: Tips for Surviving College
Where: Ferguson Center TV
Where: Ferguson Center
Lounge
VISIT US ONLINE AT CW.UA.EDU
THURSDAY What: Get On Board Day Where: Ferguson Center Ballroom
When: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Crossroads Lounge
When: 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
When: 4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. What: ABXY Game Night
What: The American As-
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @THECRIMSONWHITE
sembly for Men in Nursing Fundraiser
ous: A Summer Art Exhibition
Lounge
When: 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Where: Coldstone Creamery on the Strip
Where: Ferguson Center Art Gallery
When: 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
When: 6 p.m.
Page 2• Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Where: Ferguson Center TV
What: Last Day to see Aque-
What: House of eprouver Charity Fashion Show
Where: Ferguson Center
P.O. Box 870170 Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Newsroom: 348-6144 | Fax: 348-8036 Advertising: 348-7845 Classifieds: 348-7355
What: Chi Alpha Campus
Ballroom
Ministry Avengers Initiative
When: 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Where: Manderson Landing
Submit your events to
When: 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
calendar@cw.ua.edu
EDITORIAL
ON THE MENU
Will Tucker editor-in-chief editor@cw.ua.edu Ashley Chaffin managing editor Stephen Dethrage production editor Mackenzie Brown visuals editor Ralph L. “Tray” Smith III online editor Melissa Brown news editor newsdesk@cw.ua.edu Lauren Ferguson culture editor Marquavius Burnett sports editor SoRelle Wyckoff opinion editor Ashanka Kumari chief copy editor Shannon Auvil photo editor Whitney Hendrix lead graphic designer Alex Clark community manager Daniel Roth magazine editor
ADVERTISING Will DeShazo 348-8995 Advertising Manager cwadmanager@gmail.com
Amy Metzler osmspecialprojects2@gmail.com
The Color Run, a 5k race selfproclaimed as the “Happiest 5k on the Planet,” announced it will be making a stop in Tuscaloosa on Saturday, Oct. 6. The race, which has grown in popularity through wordof-mouth and YouTube videos, focuses not on speed but more on fun and encourages runners of all different ages, shapes, sizes and speeds to participate. Runners begin the race
wearing all-white t-shirts that become canvases as paint is dispersed from the sides of the course. Each kilometer of the race has a designated paint color: yellow, orange, pink and blue. As participants reach the “Color Run Zones” they are showered with dyed cornstarch from volunteers, sponsors and staff. All of the paint products used are 100 percent natural, safe and edible. Brent LaForte, a junior majoring in aerospace engineering, said he participated
in the Color Run Atlanta over the summer. “I liked that it was an untimed run and was more about having fun with your friends,” he said. “At the end of the race, there is a giant color party, which is the single most fun part of the event, just hanging out with your friends at the party.” LaForte said he thinks the Color Run Tuscaloosa will draw a lot of UA students. “For the price, I see a lot of students participating because
you don’t have to travel,” he said. “I’m interested about what the route is going to be like. How enjoyable the run is has a lot do with where you’re running.” Courtney Lish, a junior majoring in biology and nutrition who also participated in the Color Run Atlanta, said the volunteers looked like they were having as much fun as the runners, and she plans to be a volunteer for the Tuscaloosa race. For participants wishing to
avoid high amounts of paint, the Color Run suggests staying in the center lane of the race, while those wishing to be works of tie-dye art to stay on the sides. Additionally, runners are advised to wear sunglasses for eye protection. The race will begin at 9 a.m. and advance registration is advised. Participants can register as solo or in groups. For more information on registering or becoming a volunteer, visit thecolorrun.com/
Tuscaloosa.
Tuscaloosa ready for rebuilding, awaiting pending regulations By Mazie Bryant Staff Reporter
wy r Pk e n r Wa
H
ack The Tuscaloosa City Council is poised to approve Jack several variance requests to fa r floodway regulations in the coming days, which could Unive speed up the recovery process rsity B lvd. for tornado-torn areas. In the mid-1970s, the City of Tuscaloosa joined the Federal Emergency Management Paul W. Bryant Dr . Agency’s National Flood Insurance Program, adoptDCH ing federal regulations that Hospital reduce the risk of flood damage in determined flood zones as city ordinances in exchange for insurance coverage. 15th St. The ordinances required a map to be drawn, defining two separate areas within University Forest a determined floodplain: a Mall 69 Lake flood fringe and a floodway. 82 Within a flood fringe, a citizen can build at least one foot above the 100-year flood elevation, which varies by locaHarg rove tion and is a level reached by Rd. floodwaters every 100 years. Contrastingly, within a floodway, building is not allowed. Approximate Floodway “If you want to build in a floodway and you think that the area has been mapped Street around the Forest Lake CFM is close to resubmitting in error, you can appeal to in the city. With owners unable to area, and tributary seven, the revised map of tributary the City Council, and the city will review the request rebuild within the floodplain which lies within the Alberta seven. Moore believes the and a recent area,” hydrologist Don Moore resubmitted, revised map of and give recomi m p r o v e - said. “Since the tornado, we tributary one should be under mendations to ment to the have been in the process of final review shortly. the council,” city’s storm- coordinating and revising the “We do believe FEMA is satJoe Robinson, We felt very confident in that water drainexisting Flood Insurance Rate isfied,” Moore said. “I don’t a Tuscaloosa FEMA would approve the reviage network Maps. I looked at the topogra- want to say it is all wrapped engineer, said. sions. It will greatly speed up that reduced phy of the land, any unusual up, but it should be close to “The original the recovery process, and it’ll the chance culverts or pipes that were completion.” flood zone maps open up a lot more spaces for of f l o o d , damaged or at less than full With only the proposed were drawn by future developments, since R o b i n s o n ’ s flow capacity and determined maps to work with, the City FEMA, but some many spaces thought to be in office began where ponding, or water Council has already granted data that the the floodplain are not. w o r k i n g backup, was. The information floodway variance requests maps were based directly with was turned into a computer for Gilda’s Salon and Spa, on weren’t that — Kip Tyner local engineer- model, which was then con- Patton Realty, Capital Growthaccurate.” ing company verted onto a disc to make the Burkhalter, East Gate Gallery When the April CFM Group to flood plain maps and sent to and Alberta Baptist Church. 27, 2011 tornado Councilman Kip Tyner spun through Tuscaloosa, it survey and map the updated FEMA.” Moore said FEMA has believes these approvals are damaged buildings and busi- areas. “I was hired by CFM Group already reviewed the maps for only the beginning of many nesses around Crib Mill Creek tributary one and tributary to look at tributary one, which the two areas, sending back more to come. “The approvals were not seven – two major floodways stretches south from 15th revision recommendations.
UA
10th Ave.
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.
By Lauren Ferguson Culture Editor
25th Ave.
Will Whitlock 348-8735
Fried Chicken Turkey, Roasted Red Pepper & Portobello Burger Taco Stromboli Taco Salad Macaroni & Cheese Grilled Vegetable Panini (Vegetarian)
Kicker Rd.
John Wolfman 348-6875
Vegetable Fajita Soft Shell Bean Taco Classic Cheese Pizza Greek Chicken Sandwich Salisbury Steak Turkey Reuben Two-bean Chili
lv d .
Keenan Madden 348-2670
Steak Grilled Chicken Salad Tuna Salad Sandwich Vegetable Linguine Baked Yukon Potatoes Barley, Portobello & Butternut Squash Pilaf (Vegetarian)
vd. d Bl lan
Chloe Ledet 348-6153
LUNCH
c
Emily Diab 348-8054
FRESH FOOD
LUNCH
Color Run comes to Tuscaloosa
Queen City Ave.
Robert Clark 348-8742
Baked Chicken Hamburger Asiago Macaroni & Cheese Cheddar Mashed Potatoes with Chives Fresh Collard Greens Sesame & Edamame Asian Noodles (Vegetarian)
BRYANT
LUNCH
M
Natalie Selman 348-8042 Creative Services Manager
Turkey Meatloaf Beef Taco Salad Meat Lovers Pizza Split Pea Soup Fresh Broccoli Florets Fresh Steamed Carrots with a Brown Sugar Glaze Tofu Broth Bowl (Vegetarian)
BURKE
y Ln. berr
Coleman Richards Special Projects Manager osmspecialprojects@gmail.com
DINNER
Helen Keller B
Tori Hall Territory Manager 348-2598 Classified Manager 348-7355
LAKESIDE LUNCH
“
CW | Whitney Hendrix
something that we went out on a limb with,” Tyner said. “We felt very confident in that FEMA would approve the revisions. It will greatly speed up the recovery process, and it’ll open up a lot more spaces for future developments, since many spaces thought to be in the floodplain are not.” Robinson agrees, noting a bright future is in store for the city of Tuscaloosa. “If the proposed maps do become effective, it will take many areas out of the floodway and open up many areas for the potential for rebuilding,” Robinson said. Once FEMA approves the new maps, they will enact a 120-day public commentary period before the maps become effective.
NEWS OPINION CULTURE SPORTS
NEWS
Page 3 Editor | Melissa Brown newsdesk@cw.ua.edu Tuesday, August 28, 2012
SYTYCD competitor recaps her television experience By Katie Thurber Contributing Writer Janelle Issis may have said goodbye to “So You Think You Can Dance� after competing on the show for five episodes, but she isn’t ready to say goodbye to dancing just yet. The University of Alabama graduate said she plans on staying in Los Angeles to teach and train. “I’m doing anything and everything I can,� she said. “I love to teach and choreograph, and I want to be able to for the rest of my life.� Issis is currently assisting different classes in the Los Angeles area and said she will soon be working with bigname choreographer Barry Youngblood. Issis said she
owes some of her success to SYTYCD. “The show was really the best possible way to get my name out there,� she said. “New doors have opened because of it, and I feel very fortunate to have gotten to do it.� However, for Issis, the show wasn’t just about a successful career. She said her favorite part of participating was getting to know the cast. “We were a big family,� she said. “The show had rules about us not being at each other’s apartments, but they were a joke. All of us always hung out together.� Even after leaving the show, Issis said she’ll still get to spend time with the cast. “I’ll miss seeing them all the time, but they’re right down
Issis said she was especially the street,� she said. “Plus, I’m still watching all of them on TV proud of herself in Las Vegas, where she wowed the judges, and supporting them.� In addition to being friends, despite having had the flu, Issis said the cast served as strep throat and pneumonia a mentor group and support for the two weeks leading up to her perforsystem. She said mance. she learned the “I was still on most on the show [medicine] while just from being I love to teach and choreoI was there and around the difgraph, and I want to be able sick the whole ferent dancers. to for the rest of my life. Issis also said the time, but I did structure of the it,� she said. “I — Janelle Issis show challenged really proved and helped her to myself that I grow as a dancer. could work for “The show itself was very this if I really wanted it.� physically demanding – it Although new to the Los brought a lot out of me,� she Angeles dance scene, Issis is said. “Having Mia Michaels used to being challenged by yell at you is pretty terrifying, choreographers from UA’s but afterward, I would think, dance program. Issis said that ‘Wow, I didn’t know I could do while at UA, her instructors that!’� pushed her to be her best.
“
AOdS !# ]\ CaSR Â’ AOdS c^ b] ## ]\ @S\bOZ Â’ AOdS c^ b] " ]\ 0W\RS` @SORg Â’ AOdS c^ b] " ]\ 2WUWbOZ
“Cornelius Carter is amazing,� she said. “I walked into class freshman year and cried, but through the years, he made me confident to do anything and everything. Rita Snyder taught me how to break down music and see what could go where, which made me a better choreographer.� Stephanie Abrams, another UA graduate who found her professional calling in Los Angeles, said the training of UA’s dance program gave her the perfect setup for success. “After graduating from the University of Alabama’s dance program, I had the tools and correct mindframe for the big city of Los Angeles,� she said. “You don’t run into too many college graduates trying to make it as dancers out here,
and I think learning and growing in college was fundamental for my success in Los Angeles.� Issis and Abrams are both enjoying their success in Los Angeles, but Issis said she misses the comforts of being in Alabama. “I’m a huge family person and at first, I really didn’t like being alone,� she said. “I’ve gotten more independent living here and being so busy, but I still miss my family a lot.� Issis thinks of the show as a learning experience and feels that her elimination happened when it was supposed to. “I think I could have been better showcased, that I’m capable of a lot more, but that’s what it was supposed to be,� she said. “I did the best I could with what I was given, and that’s all I could do.�
NEWS OPINION CULTURE SPORTS
OPINIONS
Page 4 Editor | SoRelle Wyckoff letters@cw.ua.edu Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Exploration, discovery: remembering America’s lost arts Hard times, tough questions affirm faith for Muslim student
MCT Campus
By Lucy Cheseldine Staff Reporter I had planned to pick apart the dark side of American consumerism which I have lately experienced; however, as I wolfed down my Lucky Charms this morning, satisfied by the novelty of it all, I read something that made me feel a small sense of awe at our world and pushed my English cynicism to one side: The Economist’s obituary, devoted to Neil Armstrong. His real fame was somewhat before most of our times, but there is something so admirable in his commitment and the sense of adventure he instilled upon the space race, that his impression will be lasting. He managed to mute the endless political backstabbing of the Cold War confrontations and give a human face to something that had previously been associated with money and power. And isn’t that the beauty of it? Here is a man who
was simply fascinated by the pleasures of physics and nature, ending his life in an isolated farm in Ohio, flying guilders, still holding on to the seductive force of exploration. Despite losing this human face, the world has moved on to a robotic one. NASA’s latest brainchild, Curiosity, is making its way through the craters and mountains of Mars, looking for conditions which would allow humans to impose further upon the galaxy. He kick-started the rocket of discovery upon which we have now firmly embarked. This natural human thing, the need to explore, begins in the very first steps of childhood, the first time we empty our mother’s purse or build a den out of tree leaves. And it’s a feeling I have so easily been able to reconnect with since arriving here. The one thing America has that makes it so distinct is space. Not in a galactic, star-gazing sense, but a physical one. This is a feeling I have yearned for, vast open roads, huge sprawling and dark woods
with eternal trees, whispering the secrets of their past lives to accompany the crickets. And if nothing else, this sense of space allows a reconnection to our own planet, a greater understanding of its beauty. You only have to look around the Quad as the sun spills down like liquid gold to realize the potential of a day. In England, I cannot recall the sky being so awesomely dominating. America has long been known for its obsession with progress, and I can see why. The natural potential of its own landscape makes even me, a girl untrained in any Girl Scout skills or vital survival techniques, want to take off into the distance and see what is out there. In a way, that’s why I’m here. Of course, we can sometimes veer from the path of innocent discovery. Since my arrival, I have been experiencing withdrawal symptoms from my daily fix of the BBC’s pelatively pure and relevant news. The first headline I encountered on American TV regarded a dog and some miraculous change to its hair. I wasn’t paying much attention. American media is full of advertisements for products I’m positive have no target market. On the radio this morning, a woman’s voice blared out, offering me the chance to buy a ‘cell phone cage,’ for those parents who are simply fed up with their children using their phone at the dinner table. Then there’s the endless indoctrination of obscure religious groups offering their services and, of course, the Republican rabble continually telling me how to act in the case of getting pregnant. Media here is certainly a little different from home. But despite space being full of these satellites, beaming down to let me know I can buy a new or used car at a store near me, it also houses the endless opportunity of the human race. It represents the scope of our capabilities. The very fact that we have made it up there displays the opportunities we hold in a single hand. Space and its secrets are slowly being revealed, but what Neil did most was ensure that we had a greater appreciation for our own world. Here, on the stone steps of the house of books, I gaze into the blue beyond, and here, I feel, it is within reach. Lucy Cheseldine is an English International exchange student studying English Literature. Her column runs weekly on Tuesdays.
Whoopie Pie fiasco: a case for food stamp accountability By Henry Downes Staff Reporter No one likes being told how to spend his or her money. Americans are an especially individualistic lot and this libertarian streak runs through most of us. It is no surprise that waves were made when a Massachusetts baker refused to accept food stamps in exchange for her specialty “whoopie pies” at a farmers market this month. The baker, Andrea Taber of Walpole, Mass., told the Boston Herald that “[she didn’t] think American taxpayers should be footing the bill for people’s pie purchases.” Donna Ingemanson, head of the market, expressed her belief that “people that were on food stamps a lot of times don’t have healthy choices. What better chance to buy healthy foods than at a farmers market?” This sounds like a relatively reasonable and well-thought-out initiative on its part. America is infamous as a land with fat and poor people, in part because many of the cheapest culinary options are fast foods or other junk foods. What’s so wrong with Mrs.
Ingemanson and her market trying to make healthy eating more affordable for the masses? Nothing, in theory. In reality, however, some EBT users were consistently walking past the fresh corn, seeking out Mrs. Taber’s chocolate whoopie pies instead. Mrs. Taber apparently felt that this was a gross departure from the initial mission of the farmers’ market initiative and the EBT program in general, so she took a stand against what she viewed as an injustice – and lost out on some valuable profits in the process. Whether or not you agree with the principles of income redistribution in general or consider “welfare abuse” a problem, one must acknowledge what these EBT food stamps actually are: taxpayer dollars. When someone gives you their money to spend for an express purpose – in this case, the funding of a healthy and balanced diet for low-
income families – it seems reasonable that they’d have some sort of say in how that money is spent. Aren’t the concerns raised by Mrs. Taber reflective in many ways of the concerns voiced by Americans about wasteful overspending in Washington today? The federal government owns no money in any real sense. It simply borrows our money and spends it with the understanding that they are contractually obligated to provide for the general welfare. When we as citizens and taxpayers begin to see a disconnect between federal spending and the general welfare, we usually get pretty upset about it. Just as we don’t condone fiscal irresponsibility in government, Mrs. Taber took a similar stand. Constitutionally and morally speaking, all the decision-making leverage is accorded to the person who financially subsidizes the choices of others: When someone hands you a drink for free, you
don’t send it back and ask for ice. You shut up and drink it, regardless of how badly you’d really like some ice. While there are ethical limits in telling these low-income groups how to spend their EBT cards, this case is clearly not one of those exceptions. If you disapprove of income redistribution and welfare programs in general, the way low-income groups spend their food stamps is probably an irrelevant point. If, however, you do support food-stamp welfare programs in principle, you still must admit that purchasing whoopie pies is a pretty gross distortion of the intended objectives set out by the government when they created the EBT program and of the initial mission of the famers’ market in allowing EBT cards to be used. This isn’t really about baked desserts, though. It’s about responsibility. It’s about dignity. How can we expect our elected officials to be accountable for the choices they make with our taxpayer money if we as citizens can’t even hold ourselves accountable for the actions we take with money that’s essentially been gifted to us? I, for one, applaud Mrs. Taber for her principled defense of fiscal integrity. Henry Downes is a sophomore majoring in economics. His column runs weekly on Tuesdays.
By Tarif Haque Staff Reporter
I was raised in a Muslim family in Auburn. On Sunday mornings, my mother would wake my brother and me to Sunday school at the local Mosque right across from Auburn University. In every way, the religion was imposed upon me at birth. This past summer, at age 19, my faith came into question. The Sunday before last was Eid-el-Fitr, a holiday that marks the end of Ramadan– a month’s worth of fasting from dawn till dusk. Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the “five pillars” of Islam, tenants that affirm one as Muslim. The first pillar is belief in one God and affirming that Mohammad – after Adam, Moses, Jesus, and many other messengers – was the last Prophet sent to mankind. This Ramadan, I went through the standard existential crisis every college student must face. Though it was Ramadan, and my family fasted every day and prayed for hours every night, I sought to answer questions about my religion that were more fundamental. This Ramadan, I took a deeper look into the faith I’d been practicing habitually for years. I asked myself, first, if a religion was necessary to be a good person. I concluded that, yes, religion is necessary to be a good person because a de-facto human interpretation of morality is highly subjective. Our ethics should be defined by our Creator – if one exists, that is. This took me through many sleepless nights pondering the does-God-exist question. I can’t see, hear, eat, smell or touch God – the physical senses we’ve been given allow no perception of Him. God can only be felt internally, in our heads – we must imagine Him. In this way, we use religion as a coping mechanism to exist. Worship of a supposed God that cannot rationally be described allows us to escape the hardship of life; whatever we cannot achieve in this life, we can achieve in the afterlife. Though I’ve always thought of myself as a rational thinker, my belief in God defies reasoning. I seek God, expecting guidance and reward in the afterlife on the days I’m feeling most blue, when this life doesn’t go the way I want it. Was I taught religion as a child to make life more tolerable? All humans, even those who don’t believe in anything, you’ll find, not only rationalize themselves out of belief but also find reasons not to believe. At times, I feel like I’m fighting human nature without belief. There must be a part of a soul that believes in a higher power naturally, aside from the religion that’s been forced upon it growing up. My belief in God also stems from an early confrontation with death. My senior year of high school, I received a heart and double lung transplant that cured me of a chronic condition I was diagnosed with at 12. I only bring this up because in the weeks postsurgery, it became a struggle to stay alive. Every waking second was pain, and as I’ve said before, it’s in times of hardship that our belief in a higher purpose becomes pronounced. The majority of the world’s people consider themselves from an “Abrahamic” faith (Judaism, Christianity and Islam). Each religion suggests God sent humanity a chain of messengers throughout time. Though I’m sure some aspects of faith have been corrupted with time, is it coincidence that the Torah, Bible and Quran, each separated by centuries, contain the same stories of Prophethood? Belief in one God is not “rational” in the traditional sense. It must be created within us internally. It takes time, effort and persistence. But you’re fooling yourself if you think science can explain everything. Science cannot describe the human spirit unquestionably; questions about consciousness, existence and the origin of life are still up for grabs. Until my rational side can provide me answers, my belief in God will remain.
Tarif Haque is a sophomore majoring in computer science. His column runs biweekly on Tuesdays. MCT Campus
EDITORIAL BOARD Will Tucker Editor Ashley Chaffin Managing Editor Stephen Dethrage Production Editor Mackenzie Brown Visuals Editor
Tray Smith Online Editor Alex Clark Community Manager Ashanka Kumari Chief Copy Editor SoRelle Wyckoff Opinions Editor
GOT AN OPINION?
GOT A STORY IDEA?
TWEET AT US
Submit a guest column (no more than 800 words) or a letter to the editor to letters@cw.ua.edu
cw.ua.edu/submit-your-idea
@TheCrimsonWhite The Crimson White reserves the right to edit all guest columns and letters to the editor.
Thrifting a growing trend in Tuscaloosa THRIFT STORES FROM PAGE 1 “People are a lot more fashion-savvy than they used to be, so everybody wants brand names,” Fulgham said. Although Déjà Vu sells current styles of clothing and popular brands, the variety it offers separates the store from department stores and boutiques. “You walk in Belk and you’ve got a whole rack of one shirt, but you walk in here and there’s a rack with 100 different shirts on it,” Fulgham said. Christina Simmons, a junior majoring in fashion retail, works as a sales associate at Déjà Vu. “I think what I like most about Déjà Vu is that there are so many different styles and you can find everything in the store,” Simmons said. For students, the chance to get higher quality items at lower prices when thrifting is appearing. “I definitely think, as the economy has changed, it’s made people favor thrift stores and consignments stores because you can still get good quality [items] at these stores for a lot cheaper than you would in a normal department store,” Simmons said.
CULTURE
SPORTS
Clothing isn’t the only thing students can find used. The Attic Furniture Consignment offers a variety of new and used furniture pieces to suit students’ needs and tastes. The store also features a collection of one-of-a-kind pieces made from reclaimed wood. According to Dayna Parham, who owns The Attic with her husband Scottie, customers choose consignment furniture over prepared bedroom sets because they want their furniture to reflect their personal style. “They want their place to be unique. They want it to say something about themselves,” Parham said. “When you buy a prepared room like that, somebody else did it and it can take a lot of the personality out of it.” Some of the merchandise Parham receives has already been personalized or altered by the previous owner, so customers can purchase pieces with personal touches that they may not be able to find in new furniture. “A lot of students, when they do leave, or if they graduate and don’t want to take all their stuff with them, bring the pieces that they’ve already put their own twist to – either painted it or distressed it,” Parham said. Like Déjà Vu, The Attic receives new merchandise often, and items don’t remain in the store long.
features of which she planned to take further advantage. Ingram said HRC plans to use the system to facilitate an online simulation of its chain-of-comBLACKBOARD FROM PAGE 1 mand structure for interactions “I had 190 students in my lec- between RAs and community ture in the spring semester and directors. I had 11 in my summer course,” “A great feature is that we can she said. “I felt more comfort- set up supervisors as instrucable trying out Blackboard in tors and TAs so that they can the summer and getting used to use it in a more staff-specific how it works, so I could use it way,” she said. more confidently this fall.” New features or not, students’ Housing and Residential reactions to the online change Co m m u n i t i e s u t i l i z e d are divided. Blackboard Learn for this year’s “I love Blackboard,” Kilee end-of-summer Saxe, a junior resident advimajoring in nurssor training sesing, said. Students aren’t going to be sions – the first Candace Hill, a impressed with how cool time the divijunior majoring [Blackboard Learn] is until sion of Student in English, said Affairs has taken instructors know what to do she would prefer advantage of any the University with it. online curricumove away from lum system. an online system — Jennifer Greer “We have altogether. used binders “I prefer an and jump drives with informa- old-fashioned method where tion,” Amanda Ingram, HRC’s work is given directly to the assistant director for residence professor in class,” she said. education, said in an emailed The majority of students statement. “Sometimes binders expressed more ambiguity and jump drives can be lost, and toward the transition. then the RA doesn’t have access “I had a few issues with to those resources any longer. eLearning,” Meghan Steel, a With this system, they can junior majoring in anthropolalways access the information ogy, said. “I had a lot of freezing and resources as long as they issues, but I thought that was have a computer and Internet.” more my Internet browser. So Both Ingram and Greer are there were a few improvements, optimistic of the opportunities but I don’t know if this new sysBlackboard Learn’s capabilities tem is going to fix those or not.” present. Greer said the transition to “I was blown away this sum- Blackboard Learn may prove mer by Blackboard,” Greer said. to be rocky at first, like many “I’m especially excited about transitions, but she expects the the improved interactive tools it swap to be a rewarding one in presents. The method of setting the end, especially as profesup groups is not as clunky [as sors gain proficiency in the new with eLearning], which along system. with group chat will open up the “Students aren’t going to door for all sorts of online group be impressed with how cool projects.” [Blackboard Learn] is until Greer also cited online text- instructors know what to do book and quiz functions as with it,” Greer said.
Move to Blackboard not without problems
Tuesday, August 28, 2012 | Page 5
800 students to stand in Cowboys Stadium TICKETS FROM PAGE 1 Jake Powell, a senior majoring in political science, and his friends just missed the cutoff to get a seat. He purchased a ticket to the game back in May and assumed that he would be able to walk up and collect it. “They told us that there are no more tickets for you guys. We only have standing-roomonly, spirit passes if you like,” Powell said. Powell’s situation was not rare, as he was near the middle of the line. After all the seats were sold out, the next 800 in line were given the option to be in the standing-room-only section. Miles Hutcherson, a senior
be a permanent stigma on his record. Finally, he decided to go through with dropping the class. “I feel pretty certain the WITHDRAW FROM PAGE 1 classes I have finished will Lauren Coulter, a senior speak louder than the one I majoring in communicative didn’t,” he said. disorders, said she dropped a And while the occasional class and ended up with a W W is not likely to mar your on her transcript. She didn’t transcript, habitual dropping lose any sleep over this deci- can be a red flag to graduate sion. schools and future employers. “I took the “A pattern class and made of Ws may an A the followcause quesing semester tions about [a I feel pretty certain the because I was student’s] comclasses I have finished will able to put plenmitment level,” speak louder than the one ty of time into McMillian said. I didn’t. it,” Coulter said. Students who “Had I not withshould strongly — Stephen Killen drawn, I probconsider stickably wouldn’t ing with their have done very schedule are well.” those with more than three Ws Stephen Killen, a senior in on their schedule, those who New College, once took a class need to maintain full time stathat proved to be so difficult, tus - 12 hours for undergraduhe was failing other classes ate students - and those who because of it. At first, he was don’t have time to retake the concerned that the W would class before graduation.
“
a seat, which they won’t get,” Hutcherson wrote. Seth Nelson, a business graduate student, said the process of picking up tickets at 8 a.m. on a Monday was unfair to students with class at that time. “The vaguely-worded email, if understood the way they meant it to be, encouraged students to skip class 4 days [into the school year],” Nelson said. Nelson also said that he felt bad for the students who worked at the ticketing office Monday morning, as they had to explain the situation to students rather than athletic department officials. Despite the frustration, Walker said Monday’s process was no different than for other away games in recent years. “Students received an email that told them whether they were in the ticket pool for away
game tickets,” Walker said. “The number of students who received away game tickets has always depended on how many tickets we received for the game, and how many students indicated they wanted tickets.” Walker explained that it has always been a first-come, firstserve distribution process in the week prior to each road game. “Specifically for the Michigan game, we sent an email to students on Friday with the details of the distribution process, including how many $50 tickets were available and why, and the alternative option – the $35 spirit pass tickets, which the athletics department negotiated with Cowboys representatives so more students could attend,” Walker said. “Students that received spirit pass tickets will receive a refund reflecting the difference in price.”
CAMPUS ministries Describe your ministry further in the Featured Ad space here. You are sure to reach the student crowd you want with this complimentary, one time run.
“
Students prefer ‘W’ over lower grade
majoring in computer science, could not attend the 2009 or 2011 national championship games per credit hour limits set by UA. He thought that he would be able to go to Dallas because of his class standing. “Once the ticket office found out only 800 people would get physical seats, why not divide up the hours again?” Hutcherson wrote in an emailed statement. Hutcherson also wrote that he hoped that in future ticket sales, the University and the SGA work out a better plan that is more fair to older students who have spent more time on campus. “I also hope you find a way to compensate the students who waited multiple hours in line, only to be cut off, with more than a $15 bill credit to their student account, especially considering you promised them
Faith Fellowship Fun!
campus ministry To advertise your church in the Campus Ministries Guide, contact Coleman Richards at OsmSpecialProjects@gmail.com or 601.540.7565
TUSCALOOSA
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Be refreshed & rebuilt Know the
SERVICES
miracles of God
SUNDAY SCHOOL 10-10:50 AM LOCATED IN PARKER FIRESIDE ROOM (#110) (205)345-7261 800 GREENSBORO AVE. WWW.FUMCT.ORG
St. Francis of Assisi Parish
Tuesday Student Mass & Meal 5:15pm
Sunday Mass BNr BNr QN 811 5t 5th Ave.
205.75 20 .758.5.5672 72
www.stfra .stfrancisu cisuofa.co .com
First Presbyterian Church
Westminster Fellowship Join us Monday nights at 6:00pm for dinner followed by a conversation (or Convo as we call it!) at 7:00 pm
SUNDAY AT 9 &11 AM
ChapLAin Phillip Rinehart
Sun Wed
OPINION
Pastor
NEWS
6:30
Conversation Community Connections
11
www.ttownoasis.org
1127 Eighth St.
NEWS OPINION CULTURE SPORTS
CULTURE
Page 6 Editor | Lauren Ferguson culture@cw.ua.edu Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Outdoor Rec offers weekend trips for students By Chelsea Pickett Assistant Culture Editor Whether outdoor enthusiasts or novice adventurers, students hoping to try something new need look no further than The University of Alabama’s Outdoor Recreation Program. Outdoor Rec, a division of the University’s recreation program, aims to provide various opportunities for experiencing an alternative healthy lifestyle choice to the UA community, according to its website. Outdoor Rec offers numerous weekend trips throughout the fall semester for students to try. The program also takes football into
consideration and tries to ensure that students can get involved without interfering with gamedays. This semester, Outdoor Rec will offer an extended canoe trip during Fall Break, consisting of a three-day, two-night excursion that will take students on the Bartram Canoe Trail in the Mobile Delta. In December, there will be a bouldering trip to Hueco Tanks in El Paso, Texas. Becca Proctor, a senior in New College and an Outdoor Rec trip leader and support staff, said students should take advantage of the different and affordable trips led by experienced Outdoor Rec staff throughout the year. “I think it’s important for
students to take advantage of Outdoor Rec because it’s a great way to get outdoors,” Proctor said. “If you’ve never been backpacking, climbing or kayaking, this is an excellent place to start because we provide all the equipment and experienced leaders. It’s not easy or cheap for college students to get out on their own and explore all of the different activities we offer.” Proctor also said the trips include equipment and transportation, and for those wanting to explore on their own, Outdoor Rec has everything from boats to tents available for rent. Justin Vaught, a junior and a bicycle mechanic for Outdoor Rec, said there
“
I think it’s important for students to take advantage of Outdoor Rec because it’s a great way to get outdoors — Becca Proctor
are opportunities to experience different and exciting parts of the Southeast that are often unknown by many. Vaught also said the expertise and resources provided by Outdoor Rec are the perfect way for students to take advantage of these opportunities. “We love to help people enjoy the parts of Tuscaloosa
that frequently get overlooked by college students who may not have the resources or equipment to explore them on their own,” Vaught said. “UA students can have an incredible experience through Outdoor Rec by taking advantage of our rental equipment and knowledge of the area’s outdoor opportunities.” The program strives to
offer different ways for students to engage in healthier lifestyles and meet new people. Whether climbing on the indoor rock wall in the Rec Center or hiking in Oak Mountain State Park, the Outdoor Rec Program keeps students moving, all while learning about the outdoors from people who love it. “Our facilities on campus can be a huge asset for students – whether they’re looking to improve their health, build skills in rock climbing, backpacking, or cycling, or get connected with other people who share their love of the outdoors,” Vaught said. For more information on trips and involvement, visit uarec.ua.edu.
COLUMN | FASHION
Color blocking, accessorizing key to dressing up for Gameday this season By Becky Robinson Football season is right around the corner. And while that means tailgating, long lines outside of Bryant-Denny, tasty food and hopefully another BCS National Championship, it also means finding the perfect outfit for kickoff. Obviously, to show some team spirit, you’ll want to stick with a main palette of reds, whites and blacks. Experimenting with various shades, such as crimson, ivory or charcoal, can soften your look and add more depth to an outfit. Because these are all muted colors, mixing and matching is an effective way to prolong the life of the items in your closet. On the other hand, color blocking is a bolder way to show your Alabama pride while still being stylish. Pair some bright red shorts with a tucked white cham-
bray shirt and add a strappy sandal. To transition this look to fall, swap the shorts for primary red jeans, which can be found at an affordable price at places like The Gap or Express. Trade the sandals for some rich leather boots, and you’re set. Patterns – like our namesake houndstooth – are another fabulous choice for gameday attire. A houndstooth scarf is a perfect accessory that can be worn in many different ways: a neatly knotted neck scarf, a bohemian head wrap or an accessory on your shoulder bag – the choice is yours. YouTube is loaded with videos of how to wear scarves, so get creative! Stripes work wonderfully, as well. Chunky or thin, chevron or straight, shortsleeved or long, stripes are generally a big favorite and look flattering on most everyone.
Submitted
Again, stick with the Alabama color palette when working with patterns for the best gameday look. Traditional gameday gear, like jerseys or jackets or any other overpriced SUPeStore merchan-
dise, works great, whether you’re tailgating or attending the game. After all, the point of football is to have a fun time, so go ahead and throw on that Trent Richardson jersey. When a jersey is fitted and not four times your size, it’s
definitely going to look more put together. Jerseys go best with tailored jeans, but almost any other bottom is sure to work. If you choose a skirt with your jersey, make sure it’s more body contouring than A-line. Too much
flowing fabric doesn’t allow your figure to come through, and you can easily go from stylish to sloppy. Finally, no great gameday look is finished without accessories, which are key to polishing off your outfit. Jewelry, especially pieces in the shape of elephants, is great. Don’t overdo the jewelry, though. Choose a statement piece and go with that – you don’t want to look like you robbed a flea market. Face tattoos and face paint are also really fun, but again, keep it simple. Trend to avoid: Try not to get carried away. I know Alabama football is a lifestyle for a lot of students, but wacky hats, crazy outfits and excessive houndstooth are just not fashionable. You may get on the JumboTron, but trust me, it’ll be for all the wrong reasons.
NEWS
OPINION
CULTURE
SPORTS
Tuesday, August 28, 2012 | Page 7
FILM COLUMN
‘Hunger Games’ plot seen before By Dana Woodruff
If you’ve paid any attention to the latest craze in dystopian fiction, you might have noticed that “The Hunger Games” has been all the rage. I mean, what’s not to love? You’ve got the star-crossed lovers, the corrupt capitol of a futuristic world, and, of course, the perverse thrill of violence and danger. And when film producers decided to take it to the big screen, I can imagine many a fan girl fainting with the sheer giddiness of seeing her favorite book come to life. But what no one realizes is that “The Hunger Games” has a predecessor: “Battle Royale,” which hit Japanese theaters in 2000 after the release of the book in 1999. If I hadn’t participated in film club in high school, I don’t believe I ever would have stumbled across such an excellent find, seeing as “Battle Royale” is a Japanese film that until recently wasn’t sold in the United States. The remarkable thing, though, is that the plot of “Battle Royale” is eerily similar to that of “The Hunger Games” a group of children, strategically placed on a remote island by their cruel government, is forced to brutally murder one another until only one child remains and is declared the winner. Sound familiar? I thought so. “Battle Royale” begins by taking you on a tour of life in a futuristic Japan, where students with no respect for authority are beginning to overrun the schools with unnecessary violence. Feeling like an intervention is needed, the military steps in with an iron fist. One particularly aggressive middle school class – class 3-B – is sent on an apparent “field trip” but is gassed halfway to their destination. Upon waking up, the confused and disoriented students realize they’re in a classroom on a military base, where they’ve been sent for their final punishments. Their teacher
High-tech resources, Comfor table atmosphere
WELCOME TO THE UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES! Onsite or online, University Libraries can help you have a successful academic life at the Rotten Tomatoes
informs them that they are to participate in a deadly game of cat-and-mouse, where only one child will survive and be deemed the winner. After watching an ironically peppy instruction video on what to expect, they’re given duffel bags containing supplies and sent into the vast jungle to fend for themselves. Most people probably head into this movie with the mindset that it will be nothing but violence and gory, intense survival scenes. While this is true, there’s also a lot more under the surface. In a word, this movie is utterly hilarious. It seems like a twisted thing to say, but really, “Battle Royale” was intended to be a dark comedy. Like the brightlyclad, perky TV announcer in the
instruction video? It’s delightfully ironic that she’s sending the students to their deaths with such obvious enthusiasm, much like Effie Trinket in “The Hunger Games.” What’s even funnier is that the characters are awkwardly straddling the fence between angsty teen drama and the reality of the death they all face. Not only are there serious scenes of ruthless murder, but also catty fights between the girl competitors, who belong to different levels of the social pyramid and can’t seem to abandon their now-insignificant middle school issues. I think it’s this oddly appealing combination of violence and humor that makes “Battle Royale” so different and one of my personal favorites.
Capstone. Our services include: t Electronic resources available 24 hours/ 7 days a week, on or off campus t Rodgers Library, open 24 hours/5 days a week (1p.m. Sunday til 7p.m. Friday); additional late-night-study hours in Bruno, McLure and Gorgas libraries t Laptops (Macs and PCs) available for checkout t Research and reference help: in person or via phone, email, text or Twitter t Sanford Media Center, a multimedia lab open to all students (Gorgas Library, second floor)
For more information about our services, please
visit lib.ua.edu or call 205-348-6047. (PSHBT -JCSBSZ t #SVOP #VTJOFTT -JCSBSZ )PPMF 4QFDJBM $PMMFDUJPOT -JCSBSZ .D-VSF &EVDBUJPO -JCSBSZ 3PEHFST -JCSBSZ GPS 4DJFODF &OHJOFFSJOH
NEWS OPINION CULTURE SPORTS
SPORTS
Page 8 Editor | Marquavius Burnett crimsonwhitesports@gmail.com Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Jesse Williams ready for breakout year in 2012 By Marc Torrence Assistant Sports Editor Jesse Williams did something this summer that a lot of college students take for granted — he went home. It doesn’t sound like much, but for the native of Brisbane, Australia, the return to his stomping grounds can be difficult to arrange. It had been almost two years since Williams had seen his family, and in that time, a lot had changed for Alabama’s senior nose tackle. “It was good to get back,” he said. “Before that, I didn’t see my family for one and a half, close to two years. It’s been pretty tough, but it’s kind of like a job for me. You just keep doing it day by day.” The first thing his parents noticed was something about which a lot of SEC offensive linemen might feel the same: “How I got so big,” he said. “When I left, I wasn’t this big.” The 6-foot-4-inch, 320-pound senior will try to use his size to his advantage this fall, where he’s made the switch to nose tackle after playing his junior
year at left end. The transfer from Western Arizona Community College has embraced the role and hopes he can fill the literally big shoes left by former noseguard legends, such as Josh Chapman and Terrence Cody. “I think it’s just a different mindset,” Williams said. “It’s really close quarters down there, not as loose as the five. But I played there in junior college, and I’m just trying to find my feet again and get back to the technique I was using.” One player who has already seen Williams’ ability at nose tackle is guard Chance Warmack, who spends a lot of CW | Austin Bigoney time blocking Williams in prac- Jesse Williams (54) watches a younger player go through a drill at practice Monday. tice. “Strong guy, first and foreBut Williams’ impact may most,” Warmack said. “If you Barrett Jones. Jones lined up said. “He’s a really unique comcan block him, you can block against Williams all of last year, bination of not only strength not be felt on the stat sheet, anybody. He’s a very athletic when Jones played left tackle and quickness, [but] he’s a lot where interior linemen hardly and strong person. Comes hard and Williams played on the end. quicker than you guys give him make their living. The nose every play and is a very intel- This offseason, when Williams credit for. We saw a little bit last tackle’s job in a 3-4 defense like ligent person. I have much made the switch to the interior, year how he can play five tech- Alabama’s is often to eat up Jones followed him, taking up nique … The way I feel is that if one, two or even three blockrespect for him.” But if there’s anyone on a new position of his own at I can block Jesse in a 3-4 nose, I ers up at a time, which frees up can block anybody. He’s a really linebackers and other defenAlabama’s roster who’s more center. “He’s been doing well from unique kind of guy who really is sive players to make plays. familiar with Williams than So whether Williams is Warmack, it’s offensive lineman where I’m standing,” Jones that true game changer at nose.”
making tackles or just taking up space, opposing offenses will have their hands full when it comes to stopping Alabama’s Aussie. “I don’t think anyone wants to see Jesse,” running back Eddie Lacy said. “There’s no spinning away from Jesse. If he’s there, he’s there. Just take it for what it is.”
UA volleyball takes on Alabama A&M in home opener By Mary Grace Showfety Staff Reporter The Alabama Crimson Tide women’s volleyball team plays host to Alabama A&M in the Tide’s home opener Tuesday, Aug. 28 at 7 p.m. in Foster Auditorium. With a team of six returning and nine new players, head coach Ed Allen is pleased with the progress his team is making in terms of growing together.
“I think it’s obviously a much better group of kids in terms of chemistry,” Allen said. “I think they fit personality-wise together. Now it’s just a matter of blending their physical talents.” The Tide began their season last weekend with a trip to Massachusetts for tournament play. They finished the weekend 2-1 with wins over Holy Cross and Sacred Heart and a loss to Northeastern. “More than anything else,
we’ve got a lot of new players, so it’s great to just be able to play somebody else to begin with,” Allen said. “We’ve recognized the fact that we’re looking for some more consistency, particularly in our side-out offense.” Errors and inconsistencies on offense led the Tide to give up a few points over the weekend. The team intends to make consistency a priority as the season progresses. Junior Andrea McQuaid said
that as they learn each other’s tendencies, the team’s play will become stronger. “I think there’s a high ceiling for us to grow because it’s so new,” McQuaid said. “We are a family, and we’re getting closer, and that’s something we work on on and off the court.” As a returning player, McQuaid has experience on her side. “Coach tells us that you can only control what you do on the court,” McQuaid said. “We’re working on reducing errors because that’s something we’ve had trouble with. We just want to be more consistent.” The Tide hopes to strengthen their play as a whole as they prepare for their next game. “We’re looking to grow in a few areas: in our ability to side out at a greater percentage and our ability to stay consistent in CW | Margo Smith that side-out offense,” Allen said. The women’s volleyball team is ready to open the home season on “As well as in our ability to shut Tuesday vs. Alabama A&M. the opponent down and not allow them to establish runs.” “A game is a different atmo- opportunity for us to focus on Freshman Sierra Wilson sphere than just practice,” our level of mental toughness said the team is putting great Wilson said. “You learn to react and not worry about what anyemphasis on mental focus under pressure, and you are one else is doing on their side of as they go forward into the able to learn around each other. the court.” season. [Alabama A&M] is a great
Tide focused on ‘staying on their feet’ against Michigan By Marquavius Burnett Sports Editor Tide focused on “staying on their feet” against Michigan During the team’s first day of game-week preparation, the Alabama players and head coach Nick Saban raved about the play of Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson. Saban went as far as to compare him to former Auburn quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton. Robinson is the biggest offensive threat Michigan possesses, and the Tide knows containing him is key. Robinson puts pressure on defenses as one of the top dual threat quarterbacks in the nation. Throughout his career, he has developed into a better passer, using his legs as a compliment to his arm.
Counting Down
4 DAYS
UNTIL
DALLAS
Always Counting Up
14
“I think that where he has improved the most is when he is in the pocket, becoming a more consistent accurate pocket passer and still having the ability to extend plays with his feet,” Saban said on Robinson’s development. “A lot of times, different than some guys who are athletic, he extends the plays and makes big plays throwing it. He doesn’t just take off and run like some guys do.” Robinson uses what’s described as a “Michael Jordan-like pass fake” to keep pass rushers on their toes. It’s second nature for a pass rusher to jump when a quarterback appears to be passing in order to bat the ball down. The Tide will have to stay disciplined when trying to contain Robinson. “No doubt about it,” defensive end Damion Square said. “You don’t want that guy to make plays happen; [you] try to stop his feet, keep him in the pocket and do a good job up front, so that the guys in the secondary don’t have to worry about coming up and breaking coverage.” Lacy won’t put percentage on health Running back Eddie Lacy is slowly working his way back
“
[Robinson] extends the plays and makes big plays throwing it. He doesn’t just take off and run like some guys do. — Nick Saban
into form after suffering leg injuries during the offseason. Lacy described the injuries as “nagging, but nothing serious” and said he is in rehab where he is making progress every day. In Lacy’s absence, truefreshman T.J. Yeldon did work with the first team. “He did pretty good,” Lacy said of Yeldon. “He came in, he did everything he had to do, and he did it very well, too. He took on the role very well.” Lacy’s health may be one of the biggest keys to the Tide’s success. The red-shirt junior is the only Tide running back that saw significant playing time, backing up Trent Richardson last season. He averaged 7.1 yards per carry and scored seven touchdowns. If Lacy’s health continues to be a problem, the Tide has a stable of talented running backs including Yeldon, Dee Hart and Jalston Fowler.
NEWS
OPINION
CULTURE
SPORTS
Tuesday, August 28, 2012 | Page 9
MARKETPLACE
How to place a classified: For classified line ads visit www.cw.ua.edu and click on the classifieds tab. For classified display ads call (205) 348-7355 or email cwclassmgr@gmail.com for a free consultation. The Crimson White is published four days a week (M, T, W, TH). Each classified line ad must run for a minimum of four days and include no less than 16 words.
HOUSING WILLOW WYCK 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath, 960 square feet, perfect for roommates, swimming pool, ¿replace, ¿ve minutes from Campus. FIRST MONTH FREE. Pre-leasing Available. 391-9690 1/2 OFF FIRST Month’s Rent\Spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bath $700. Close to Midtown & Campus. COURT WOODS 1600 Veterans Memorial Pkwy. Call Denise 556-6200 www.delview. com
HOUSING
CAMPUS 3 BLOCKS away 1 bedroom apartments, Hackberry Place. $400-$425. Water and garbage included. Lease and deposit required. No pets. Call (205) 752-1277 CLAYMONT- on Trolley Line, Close to UA, 2602 Claybrook Dr. One Bedroom $365. Call me for move-in-special- Denise 556-6200 www.delview.com.
Best Commercial Rates:
4-8 days is $.50 per word. 9 plus days is $.35 per word.
Student/Faculty Rates:
$.35 per word. You must register with a Crimson Mail address to get this rate. If you enter your ad under student rate without a Crimson Mail address your charge will be adjusted to regular price.
DEADLINES: Classified line ad deadline is the previous business day by 4:00 p.m.
JOBS
HOUSING
HOUSING
CAMPUS 3-4 BEDROOM HOUSES very nice, available now. Lease and deposit required. No pets. Call (205) 7521277.
RATES
1/2 OFF First Month’s Rent2 bedroom, 2 bath $700. Close to Midtown & Campus. COURT WOODS 1600 Veterans Memorial Pkwy. Text “Court� to 843644. Call Denise 556-6200 www.delview.com ROOM FOR SUBLEASE Female roommate needed! In a 5br/3ba house. $570/ month walking distance from campus. 1/5 utilities. (512)296-7502 WOODLANDS FEMALE ROOMMATE NEEDED FOR SUBLEASE, 2bdrm, furnished
McNeff Veterinary Hospital, P.C. 6 minutes from Campus!
·wellness exams ·vaccinations ·heartworm prevention & testing ·grooming & more! 20% discount for all students* 15% discount for faculty*
Call us for details!*
1600 Greensboro Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 205-345-6767
3$/,6$'(6
apartment, $660/m, Located near Target. (205) 887- 5747 CONDO FOR SALE. 3 MINUTES from UA campus. Rice Mine Road. Quite gated community. 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath. 1200 square feet with private balcony. Pool. $105,000.00. Leave message. (334)285-7969
JOBS
PART TIME GENERAL Local Student help needed for Part time general maintenance. Maintenance Duties will include maitenenace inside and outside of the ofÂżce, such as cutting grass, washing vehicles, pulling trailers. Need to have basic mechanical knowledge. Pre-employment drug screening and MVR requirement. Fax Resume to (205) 339-9335.
JOBS
ANNOUNCEMENTS
CUSTOMER SERVICE REP Immediate opening for customer service representative, Tuscaloosa area. Previous experience preferred, not required. Send resume with references. tusc.job.opportunities@gmail. com
HAIR SPECIAL Wash and set $20 until September 22nd. Must ask for Ruthi. Specializing in hair weaves/ extensions, relaxers, cuts, color and more! Milady’s Innovations, Skyland Blvd. Call (205) 752-1788 or (334) 510-0086.
HIRING DELIVERY DRIVERS Crimson 2 Go, a new delivery company in Tuscaloosa, is now interviewing candidates (21 years or older) for delivery positions. P/ T or F/ T. Great Job for Students! Drivers will be paid per delivery plus tips. You must have a reliable form of transportation as you will be delivering with your own vehicle. (205)469-9229
SELLING FOOTBALL TICKETS! 4 football tickets. Season package. All home games. Section U4-KK. $2,400 total. Call: (205)427-0077
HIRING Servers and Kitchen Staff For Bryant Denny Stadium $10/ Hour and Up for Servers $8/ hour and up for utility cooks dependent on experience Check out our AD on Craigslist Posting ID: 3172239525
Advertise in the Crimson White’s Classi¿ed Marketplace. Visit www.cw.ua.edu and click on the classi¿eds tab and look for the place new ad button. Low cost, highly effective ads available in print and online.
Need money for the weekend? Turn your “stuffâ€? into fast cash. Visit www.cw.ua.edu and click on the classiÂżeds tab. Ad placement is quick and easy. ClassiÂżed display ads get results. Call your Crimson White ad representative today to Âżnd out how the Crimson White can help you create new business opportunities. Call (205) 3487355 or cwclassmgr@gmail. com
Text “chic�
to 71441 for Buy One Get One Half Off 2VFFO $JUZ "WF t '# 7JOUBHF 7JCF #PVUJRVF
The
Crimson
White
ac-
cepts Visa and Master Card for payment for your classiÂżed ads. Visit www.cw.ua. edu , click on the classiÂżeds tab and charge it today!
$ 3$ 5 7 0 ( 1 7 + 2 0 ( 6
1, 2, 3 bedrooms
FREE • • • •
monitored security system gas log fireplaces fitness rooms 2 resort pools
CALL (205) 544-1977 3201 Hargrove Road East Tuscaloosa, AL palisadesapthomes.com
DOWNTIME Crossword
Fun-filled Time Wasters
ACROSS 1 6-Across, for one 6 Friday portrayer 10 Flag down __ 14 Totally lose it 15 Modest reply to a compliment 16 Sported 17 Zimbalist Jr. of “77 Sunset Strip� 18 Playwright Akins and Tony winner Caldwell 19 Et __: and others 20 Repeatedly, in poems 21 The first Mrs. Trump 23 Reaction to a pun, perhaps 24 Driver with a permit 26 *Monopoly cards 28 Snickered at 29 Start of a confession to a priest 32 Ed.’s workload 33 *Warty leaper 34 “You’ve got mail� Internet giant 35 Recedes to the sea 38 “Oedipus __� 39 Beggar’s request 40 Spanish aunt 41 *Robin’s egg color 43 Cookie container 45 Concur about 47 Mary’s little follower 51 *Scrub 52 Latvia neighbor 53 Sonic bursts 55 Make joyful 57 Cold War initials 58 Prefix with Chinese 59 Silly smile, maybe 60 Inline roller 62 Sly glance 63 __ platter: Chinese menu choice 64 Tuckers (out) 65 Use intense light on 66 Laundry challenge 67 Begin
By Ed Sessa
DOWN 1 From long ago 2 *With 13-Down, roasted aromatic seed 3 Fish-and-chips sauce 4 Reveal, in verse 5 Helps remember 6 *Oz ruler 7 School for English princes 8 Place for pumpernickel 9 Fly-__: air passes 10 Military medals, e.g. 11 Really huge 12 “Carmen� highlight 13 *See 2-Down 22 Victory signs 23 Turned right 25 Canyon perimeters 27 Portuguese “she� 30 *Pop’s partner 31 2012 British Open winner Ernie 33 Peg on the links 35 Terminal expectation: Abbr. 36 *Tom Hanks film 37 Lines on labels
8/28/12
HOROSCOPES Today’s Birthday (08/28/12). What makes you happy? Add it to the plan. Two eclipses favor career this year, sparking overdue recognition. Education and creative expression grow in new directions. Social network communications expand it all. Relationships hold the gold. Share the love. To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging. Aries (March 21-April 19) -- Today is a 6 -- Confer with allies for the next two days. Take your time, and step carefully around sharp or fragile objects. Your friends help surmount breakdowns. Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 6 -- You’re especially fair and balanced now. The impossible seems possible, particularly around your work. Difficulties ahead translate into a learning experience. Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is a 5 -- Conditions look good for romance, but don’t bend the rules. Plan a getaway to relax. It could potentially be an expensive moment, so take care. Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 6 -- It’s easier to focus on the details. Today and tomorrow are good for financial planning. Remember that the best things in life are still free. Irritation alert! Keep it soothing. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is a 5 -- Create romance, graciously. Start by listening for the gold. Remember the rules. Family matters vie with work for your attention. Keep expenses low.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Entering a two-day busy work phase. Choose materials carefully. Avoid distractions and arguments, even if you have to admit you’re wrong. Keep a secret. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- You’re especially creative, and luckier, until tomorrow. The challenge will be to balance work with play. Hold on to what you have. Reassess priorities. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 6 -- Stay put. Make household decisions the next few days. Definitely choose love over money. Postpone travel. Continue to show extraordinary patience. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -Today is a 5 -- No trying new tricks now, and don’t throw your money around. Share feelings for a little while. Communicate with lost friends. You’re very popular now. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 7 -- Work may be challenging, but it’s much more rewarding than usual. Keep costs down while increasing income. Postpone play until later. Get practical. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 7 -- You’re in the lead, but don’t fall asleep at the wheel. Be your own biggest critic, but keep it constructive. You can accomplish a lot now. Dig deeper. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is a 6 -- Find the light within rather than looking for it at the end of the tunnel. Follow through on what you’ve promised, doing the practical things first. Use your sensitivity.
Sudoku
Monday’s Puzzle Solved
The font may be
But the opportunities are huge. (c)2012 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
38 Second-place finisher 39 Folk singer Guthrie 41 Swarming stingers 42 Mauna __ 43 Kid around 44 Swears to 46 “Get Shorty� author Leonard 47 *Piece of packing material
8/28/12
48 Michael who played Cochise 49 Title associated with the 11 starred answers 50 Most meager 53 *Bird’s beak 54 Fit for military duty 56 Fat removal, briefly 59 Navig. aid 61 Christopher Carson, famously
Check out the rates at the top to get your word out
Page 10 | Tuesday, August 28, 2012
NEWS
OPINION
CULTURE
SPORTS