Ladies rock Rage Against the Machine
ONLINE Video: The Return of Tray Walking
LIFESTYLES
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Serving the University of Alabama since 1894
Vol. 118, Issue 27
Kirani James: a true champion After winning a world championship, the former UA track star has gone pro By Jasmine Cannon Contributing Writer
CW|Megan Smith Dogs await new homes at the Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter. The center currently houses over 400, animals and volunteers are still needed at the shelter.
Shelters help get your paw in the door volunteering By Melissa Brown Staff Reporter Mbrown104@crimson.ua.edu A plump tabby cat named Nelson spends his days sprawled on Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter director Judy Hill’s desk, content with his rule of the roost. “Nelson was a storm kitty – we all fell in love with him,” Hill said. “He was so skinny when he came in, but look at him now.” The shelter, like Nelson, has slowly returned to normal since the hectic days following April 27. Only four “storm dogs” still board at the shelter while their displaced owners look for pet-friendly residences – a tiny number compared to the nearly 800 animals that
athletes but does not get as much atten-
There is only one student on the Alabama campus who can also call himself a certified professional athlete. His name is Kirani James, and he is the reigning world champion for the 400m in track. James became the youngest person to ever win a world championship and is also the first person from his native country of Grenada to receive a gold medal at the 2011 IAAF World Championships in Daegu, South Korea earlier this month. “I think it was a very satisfactory performance,” James said. “I think that represented my country well, and I’m glad I came out with the win.” Before turning pro, James completed two record-breaking seasons as a member of the Crimson Tide men’s track team. While on the track team, he won two NCAA outdoor championships in the 400m, was a three-time SEC Champion and was named the 2011 SEC Indoor and
“I think, being a track athlete, you tion or media coverage as other sports. have to be strong mentally as a person “It’s a sport that I like,” James said. and be dedicated. There’s a connection “Although it doesn’t get the respect and between me and track.” — Kirani James. 2011 IAAF World Championship gold medalist Outdoor Runner of the Year. “I knew at the beginning of the fall that he was pretty much ready to go professional based off of how workouts were going and times he was performing in practice,” said Harvey Glance, James’ former coach. “When the season started, he set the world junior record at Arkansas, and then I knew that he was ready to go to the next level. That was a true indication.” Glance said even though a lot of people doubted James’ ability to take his talents to the next level, there was never a doubt in his mind. James does all of this in track – a sport that features some of the world’s greatest
Kirani James ran for the University of Alabama track and field team. Though now a world champion, he still attends UA classes. UA Athletics
Seee JAMES, page age 9
Audience will get up close and personal with ‘Purgatorio’
HOW TO GET INVOLVED • Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter: http://www.metroanimalshelter.org (205) 752-9101
• Humane Society of West Alabama: http://www.humanesocietyofwa.org 205-554-0011
• Bama PAWS: Online at t-townpaws.org under the ‘Get Involved’ tab
See SHELTER, page 8
First Year Council director resigns after irregularities Mallet celebrates 50th anniversary in applications
CW | Mitchell Hughes Actors Amy Handra and Stephen Brunson had to make sure their movements and embraces could be seen from all four sides of the stage for their adaptation of “Purgatorio.” Read more about the play on page 12.
By Jasmine Cannon and Nick Jamroz The Crimson White
By Katherine Martin Assistant News Editor klmartincw@gmail.com Sara Lavender, director of the Student Government Association First Year Council (FYC), resigned last night as a result of irregularities in the application scoring process, SGA communications director Seth Morrow said. First Year Council is a part of the SGA that was created to allow the freshman class to be represented in student government. Over 600 students submitted applications. Zack Freeman, a former FYC member who served on the scoring committee, said he witnessed multiple conversations between members of the committee le this
p
INSIDE today’s paper
er •
Plea s
yc rec
See FYC, page 5
Fifty years after its inception as a project of Dean of Men John Blackburn, the Mallet Assembly remains one of UA’s most non-traditional organizations. From Palmer Hall — the Assembly’s dormitory — Malleteers have seen mixed reactions from across campus to the group’s unique attitudes and opinions. In its 50th year, Mallet still elects its own RAs and has its own written constitution, features that make the Assembly a truly self-governing student organization. Responsibility on the part of the individual, according to Mallet Minister of Information Marina Roberts, is the group’s general philosophy. “We look deeper into you as a person and try to figure out who you are beyond whatever
ap
e
about applicants they had discussed earlier. In addition, Freeman said he overheard conversations between members about what scores to give each candidate. The committee was created to score applications in order to determine which applicants would be given a chance to interview for a seat on the council. “There was an irregularity, and the process is being evaluated,” Morrow said. “That scoring process is invalid. All applications will be rescored.” David Simpson, SGA attorney general, said his office will look into the matter to ensure compliance with all SGA rules and laws.
Please ec
r
• er
Those misconceptions, she said, are misguided. Roberts, a sophomore majoring in anthropology, believes typical students view Mallet as kids who play Dungeons and Dragons — sometimes, even, as second-class citizens on campus. While Mallet Assembly has faced harassment through the years, one example comes from as recently as Sept. 13, when the Mallet Assembly sign was stolen from the building by a group of young men. Mallet’s president, Max Hill, attempted to stop the theft from happening but was struck by a vehicle CW | Natalie Nichols before he could catch the culprits. Some members of the Mallet Assembly posing for a photo on “The “I would just like it if the Stoop” on Sept. 21. general attitude of treating weird hobbies you may have, advice to the students who Mallet like an organization of which is why I think so many have those misconceptions second-class citizens stopped,” students come here and feel about Mallet would be to come Roberts said. an acceptance they never felt around sometime and talk before,” Roberts said. “My with us.” See MALLET, page 2
P.O. Box 870170 Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Newsroom: 348-6144 | Fax: 348-8036 | Advertising: 348-7845 | Classifieds: 348-7355 Letters, op-eds: letters@cw.ua.edu Press releases, announcements: news@cw.ua.edu
Briefs ........................2
Lifestyles.................. 11
Opinions ...................4
Puzzles.................... 13
Sports .......................9
Classifieds ............... 13
WEATHER today Chance of T-storms
83º/65º
Friday
85º/63º
Chance of rain
ycle
this pa
p
GO ON THE
Page 2• Thursday, September 22, 2011
EDITORIAL Victor Luckerson editor-in-chief editor@cw.ua.edu
ONLINE
ON THE CALENDAR
Business Career Fair
Where: Sellers Auditorium, Bryant Conference Center
Opinions Editor Tray Smith hits the Quad to ask students basic questions about UA. Their answers may suprise you.
ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: UA RECEIVES ENERGY GRANT U.S. Secretary of Energy Stephen Chu announced that 24 universities will receive funding for their Industrial Assessment Centers on Sept. 13. The University of Alabama will receive about $1.5 million of the $30 million grant.
Amanda Sams news editor newsdesk@cw.ua.edu Malcolm Cammeron community manager outreach@cw.ua.edu Stephanie Brumfield lifestyles editor
dent Center
dium
When: All Day
When: 12:30 p.m.
What: Blaine Duncan & The Lookers, Callooh! Callay!, The Bear
What: Elephant Stomp Where: Gorgas Library When: 1 p.m.
What: “Germany and the Future of Europe” lecture by the Consul General of the German Consulate, Dr. Lutz Görgens
Where: Green Bar When: 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Where: Graves Hall When: 4 p.m.
What: Bear Country Where: Bean-Brown Theater
What: Xpress Night: Open
at Shelton State
Night at Starbucks!
Evan Szczepanski graphics editor Drew Hoover photo editor Brian Connell web editor Daniel Roth multimedia editor
Brittany Key 348-2598 Territory Manager Amy Ramsey 348-7355 National Representative Classifieds Coordinator Lauren Aylworth 348-8042 Creative Services Manager Nikki Amthor 348-8742 Greg Woods 348-8054 Tori Hall 348-6153
When: 2:30 p.m.
When: 7:30 p.m. Submit your events to calendar@cw.ua.edu
When: 6 to 9 p.m.
ON THE MENU LAKESIDE LUNCH Hummus with pita chips Greek antipasta salad Pork sausage patty Turkey, vegetable, and brown rice soup Beef tips with noodles Homestyle chicken sandwich
DINNER
BURKE
BRYANT
FRESH FOOD
LUNCH
LUNCH
LUNCH
Asian Pepper Chicken Dirty Rice Mexican Corn Meatball Sub Frito Pie Fettuccini Alfredo (Vegetarian)
Country Meatloaf Seasoned Peas & Carrots Cheddar & Chive Mashed Potatoes Greek Gyro Sandwich Cream of Mushroom Soup Vegetable & Cheese Burrito (Vegetarian)
Southwestern Chicken Fried Steak Chicken A La King Chunky Chicken Salad Sandwich Bean, Rice and Cheddar Burrito Marinated Vegetables Basil Mozzarella Pasta Salad (Vegetarian)
Buttermilk Fried Chicken Macaroni & Cheese Vegetable Medley Ham Calzone New England Clam Chowder Pinto Beans
ON CAMPUS German Consul General to speak on the future of Europe
First Nonprofit Protégé Program now accepting applications
Dr. Lutz Görgens, the Consul General from the German Consulate in Atlanta, Ga., will be coming to the University of Alabama this Thursday, Sept. 22 to present his talk, “Germany and the Future of Europe.” Dr. Görgens is the official representative of the
The University of Alabama is preparing to launch the first Nonprofit Protégé Program. The program, made possible through the work of both the UA Community Service Center and the Career Center, will set up student administrators and CEOs of local nonprofit organizations to allow those interested in nonprofit work to familiarize
German government in the Southeastern United States. His talk will focus on the current financial crisis involving Greece and Germany in Europe and how the issue will affect the United States. The talk will start at 4 p.m. and will be held in BibbGraves Hall.
ADVERTISING Emily Richards 348-8995 Advertising Manager cwadmanager@gmail.com
dium
Starbucks
Tray Smith opinions editor
Kyle Carey design editor
What: Alabama vs. Arkansas Where: Bryant-Denny Sta-
Where: Starbucks Where: Ferguson Center
Tony Tsoukalas sports editor
Adam Greene chief copy editor
What: Walk of Champions Where: Bryant-Denny Sta-
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Jonathan Reed managing editor jonathanreedcw@gmail.com Will Tucker assistant managing editor wjtucker1@gmail.com
What: Non-Profit Protégé Where: 346 Ferguson Stu-
What: General Interest and
VIDEO: TRAY WALKING
SATURDAY
FRIDAY
TODAY
themselves with one’s day-to-day operations. The eight week program is available to students with at least sophomore standing who have a 2.5 cumulative GPA or higher. Go to volunteer.ua.edu to download the application. Applications are due by Sept. 25 at the Community Service Center at 346 Ferguson Student Center.
ON THE RADAR
U.S. endures second-hottest summer on record From MCTcampus
The National Climatic Data Center announced Sept. 8 what most Americans had been feeling all summer: It’s been a scorcher across the country, the second-hottest since 1895. But not by much. The warmest national average for June, July and August was 74.6 in 1936.
This summer’s average was 74.5. The temperature average has to be considered in context. Some regions experienced unseasonably cool weather, and California and New Jersey had their wettest summers ever. As has been previously reported, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Louisiana had their warmest summers on record.
Average summer temperatures in Texas and Oklahoma exceeded the previous seasonal statewide average temperature record for any state during any season. Texas had its driest summer on record, with a statewide average of 2.44 inches of rain, more than five inches below the longterm average, and one inch less
ing something,” Thomas said. “Whether we’re changing ourselves through personal growth, changing the policies of the University through organized effort, or even changing the social landscape in the world all around us, we’re always seeking to forego the status quo—to make a difference of some kind. To put it simply, we’re always striving to break the mold.” The Mallet Assembly bills itself as a group that allows
an individual to unapologetically be who he or she is. In Palmer Hall, the Assembly has a common room, a basement full of arcade games, a computer lab, movie theater, piano and area where they conduct meetings and admissions interviews. According to admissions chairman Spencer Carter, Mallet currently has 100 active student members and hundreds of alumni, some of whom were on campus as far
than the previous driest summer in 1956. New Mexico had its second-driest summer, and Oklahoma its third-driest. Two other interesting notes from the data, released through National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: The U.S. Climate Extremes Index, which measures the percentage of the country experi-
encing extreme climate conditions, was nearly four times the average value during summer 2011. Based on NOAA’s Residential Energy Demand Temperature Index, the temperature-related energy demand in the lower 48 states was 22.3 percent above average this summer, also a record.
Rob Clark 348-4367 Will DeShazo 348-8041 Jessica West 348-8054 Ben Gordon 348-8042 Lauren Gallas 348-8042 Coleman Richards Special Projects Account Rep 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 © 2010 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.
MALLET Continued from page 1
Stopping harassment, though, can be difficult for a group with Mallet’s attitude toward campus issues—an attitude, according to Mallet historian Ethan Thomas, that always challenges the status quo. “As both individuals and an organization as a whole, Malleteers are always chang-
“[W]e’re always seeking to forgo the status quo—to make a difference of some kind. To put it simply, we’re always striving to break the mold.” — Ethan Thomas, Mallet historian
back as the 1960s, that still communicate with current students. Sujata Mulekar, a junior majoring in biology, said she was attracted to Mallet
because of its camaraderie. “It’s like a family,” she said. “Your family accepts you for who you are. I’ll keep in touch with some of the friends I met in Mallet for a long time.” Harrison Hall, a freshman majoring in civil engineering, said, “In three days, I learned everyone’s name. Mallet pushed me forward to get involved in a lot of things and encouraged me to go out and meet people.” Students interested in joining the Mallet Assembly can find information and the application online at www. mallet-assembly.org.
Alabama School of Fine Arts Open House is October1 ATTEND A SESSION AT 9 AM, 10 AM OR 11 AM Current 6 -10 graders can apply for grades 7-11. Tuition-free public education and training in Dance, Creative Writing, Visual Arts, Music, Theatre Arts and Math/Science. Admission by audition only for the 2012-2013 school year. ALABAMA SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd., Birmingham, AL 35203 www.asfa.k12.al.us
205-252-9241
The Crimson White
NEWS
Thursday, September 22, 2011
3
CW | Mitchell Hughes
The Sigma Alpha Epsilon house has moved from its original location when the fraternity was founded at UA, but now can be found on University Boulevard.
History prevalent inside Sigma Alpha Epsilon By Corrin Mason, Rich Robinson Contributing Writers
The Crimson White was recently given the opportunity to tour the Sigma Alpha Epsilon house in an effort to understand more about the history of the oldest fraternity on campus and in the South. The delegation of reporters and a photojournalist were given a tour of the 70-yearold house by SAE’s chapter president, Jesse Blount. “I get calls all the time from people just wanting to tour the house,” Blount said. The SAE house at UA is hard to miss. Located directly on University Boulevard, next to Gallalee Hall, it hulks over the surrounding landscape. A large front lawn separates it from
the major road and frames the stately, ancient-style building. Sculptures of twin lions, lying in a prone position, sit at the foot of the steps that lead the way to an old, ornate front door complete with matching king cat knockers. The University of Alabama is home to 54 greek organizations, according to the Office of Greek Affairs. Many of the sororities and fraternities have notable historical value, but SAE is especially significant. It was actually founded on the Alabama campus on March 9, 1856, which makes it the first national fraternity founded in the South. This remarkable history is evident in the house. A wealth of artifacts can be found in
nearly every room on the first floor. In the formal room sits a display case in which old photos of past members and other relics, including the cornerstone of the original house, are kept. Paintings of the founding members line the walls, and almost every other object in the room has some connection to the past. “The original house was actually spared from the Union when they burned down many buildings on campus,” Blount said about Yankee troops that invaded and destroyed much of the campus during the Civil War. Sigma Alpha Epsilon was founded by Noble Leslie DeVotie and seven of his closest friends, according to the chap-
ter website. DeVotie wanted to create an organization that would spread “the warm friendships he and his friends had already formed on the campus of the University.” The Alabama SAE website continues to describe the path of the fraternity through the Civil War. The miracle in the history of SAE is that it survived that great sectional conflict. The majority of the fraternity members (less than 400) fought for the Confederacy, but seven of them did fight for the Union. Seventy members became casualties of the war. “The founder was actually the first casualty of the Civil War,” said Blount, referencing the premature death of DeVotie, who drowned after a freak
accident aboard a Confederate steamer en route to pick up war supplies on Feb. 12, 1861. After the war, the fraternity experienced a period of rapid growth that has led to its major influence nationwide. However, there is another side to SAE’s story. In its 160year history, the Alabama Mu chapter has not had one black student join its ranks. However, this is not the case for many other chapters across the country. Ironically, one African-American SAE member at Cornell University died in February after being tied up and forced to consume so much alcohol that he was found with a blood alcohol content of .409, according to an ABC News report. The family is suing the
Single Pleaser PIZZA & PEPSI
4
$
8”Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza PLUS a Pepsi CAMPUS AREA
national Sigma Alpha Epsilon branch for $25 million. SAE responded to this incident by issuing a press release, which reiterated its “zero tolerance policy” on underage drinking. SAE also sponsors a hazing hotline 1-888-NOT-HAZE. Despite troubles at other SAE chapters, UA’s chapter is well regarded in the greek world. It has made impressive strides in academics as well, now ranked as having the 5th best chapter GPA among the 25 active fraternities, up from 25th in 2000. Today, the fraternity still strives to honor the original ideals of “friendship, scholarship, and service” and has spread that mission throughout chapters in the United States and Canada.
1211 University Blvd. across from Publix
366-1500
OPINIONS
SGA attorney general speaks about B-30-11
Thursday, September 22, 2011 Editor • Tray Smith letters@cw.ua.edu Page 4
{ YOUR VIEW } (WEB COMMENTS) “So Alabama is the only place where the races self segregate? I doubt it.” – David Blake Jones, in response to “Diversity increasing in black greek organizations”
“You and this are the reason itʼs time for the Greeks to end this bigotry.” – Chance Cunningham, in response to “Race remains a focal point in university culture”
“Calls for unity are generally popular, but they are rarely useful in the abstract. We can unite around football because we all want our team to win. It is obviously good for a community to unite in response to natural disasters, and especially when everyone can see the devastating impact and do something to respond, that unity should be expected. But that unity shouldnʼt necessarily extend to issues where not everyoneʼs interests align.” – Brad Erthal, in response to “Why can’t every day be like game day?”
EDITORIAL BOARD Victor Luckerson Editor Jonathan Reed Managing Editor Tray Smith Opinions Editor Adam Greene Chief Copy Editor Will Tucker Assistant Managing Editor Drew Hoover Photo Editor
WE WELCOME YOUR OPINIONS Letters to the editor must be less than 300 words and guest columns less than 800. Send submissions to letters@ cw.ua.edu. Submissions must include the author’s name, year, major and daytime phone number. Phone numbers are for verification and will not be published. Students should also include their year in school and major. For more information, call 348-6144. The CW reserves the right to edit all submissions.
By David Simpson
Rick Perry and his penchant for fire By Xavier Burgin Imagine for a moment, the smoke-filled screams of a young child unable to cross a wall of fire. The terror of a house in collapse, as smoke obscures your vision and your skin begins to broil. Your hands are too small to reach over the flames and open the door. It doesn’t matter – the knob is so hot it burns the fingerprints off the tip of your hands. Flames become the furnish of the room as the small space left where you stand slowly singes and turns black. Imagine yourself, an eightyear-old child, faced with the inevitability of your own death. Your last thoughts, tinged with the unimaginable pain of fire engulfing your entire body. Enter Ca m e r o n To d d Willingham and the state of Texas. Mr. Willingham was convicted of murder and executed for the death of his three children by arson. This lowly, bastardized example of the deepest depths of human evil stood outside as his children slowly cooked from the fires of his own making. He killed them. He planned it. He allowed his flesh and blood to char, ending any hope of a world filled with the love, hope and misadventures of Amber, Karmon and Kameron Willingham. This man deserved to die. If only we could put him to death twice more to vindicate the loss of such life. I hope you hate him. I hope you agree this kind of creature deserves no recourse. Also, he didn’t do it.
One of the most contested parts of our legal system is the death penalty. This article isn’t about taking either side. Rather, I would like to specify the moral fibers connecting opposing viewpoints. Some want to abolish the death penalty. Some may advocate its continued use, but everyone agrees no man should be put to death for a crime he did not commit. A hundred men condemned for crimes of heinous and immoral magnitude does not equal one man unjustly prosecuted and killed. How does Governor Rick Perry slink into this situation? Perry has found an upsurge of support in recent months. Scrutiny has come with his popularity. One of the most notable problems tends to be his Biblical fervor, which is so intense it leans into realms of outright stupidity. No, I can’t blame the Bible for the misgivings of a man. This overall structure of anti-science and black and white moral politics advocated by Perry is a monster of his own creation. Willingham had been on death row for several years since his prosecution. Few were willing to take up the case of a convicted murderer with such an airtight case. Airtight, as in recanted statements by several witnesses, key testimony goaded from an unreliable prison informant, and forensic science proving (without doubt) Willingham had not caused the fire that killed his children. When forensic evidence was introduced days before his exe-
cution, Willingham was denied a postponement of execution to bring the new evidence to light by Gov. Rick Perry. He was also denied clemency outright. Willingham was executed on Feb. 17, 2004. On Oct. 2, 2009, the Texas Forensic Science Commission reopened the case after persistent questions were raised. Before the meeting was held, Gov. Rick Perry fired the head of the commission, postponing the investigation indefinitely. Rick Perry (along with his office) completely ignored forensic evidence acquitting Willingham. He has since swept this under the table now that he is a presidential candidate. This isn’t about the pros and cons of the death penalty. I don’t care. This is about an elected official pushing a man to his death and covering it up. There were no mixed messages. No misunderstanding of evidence. New forensic evidence was found that freed Willingham of guilt. Gov. Rick Perry ignored it. If a government tells a man to kill a man, it’s patriotism. If a man tells men to kill other men, it’s a revolution. If a man just kills a man, it’s murder. Where does this leave our elected officials when their actions directly lead to the death of the innocent? Xavier Burgin is a junior majoring in interdisciplinary studies and film production. His column runs biweekly on Thursdays.
Greeks should encourage diversity By Tray Smith Walk into Lakeside Dining Hall for a typical meal, and groups of students will be clustered around the tables and inside the booths. Chances are, a wide array of students will be represented throughout the building. But most individual tables will consist of students who look pretty much the same. Race remains a complicated issue in the South, even today. Racial hostility and resentment are rare, but on the whole, individuals still tend to associate most closely with others who look and act like them. For many in-state students, this probably seems normal. But for our growing out-of-state population, people from places like Connecticut or California and even Florida or Texas, this level of racial segregation may seem strange, even repulsive. By and large, though, no one pays much attention to the students who go through college with a racially homogenous social circle, and few criticize them. Trouble comes only for those whose social circle is a registered student organization, like the students in our greek community who belong to actual chapters that critics can point to as examples of racial exclusivity. But the aspect of our greek community that makes it most vulnerable to public criticism on race – its structured, highly organized nature – also makes it the University’s best tool for encouraging interracial interactions among students. Little can be done to encourage diversity at random parties thrown at homes or apartments, but a lot can be done to encourage diver-
sity at registered events sponsored by greek houses. Fraternities and sororities of various racial compositions can join together for swaps, parties or philanthropic activities. The movement to make fraternities and sororities more racially diverse will hopefully culminate with more minority students in more greek houses, allowing the friendshipbuilding strengths of the greek system to be used to develop relationships across racial lines. Unfortunately, we are not using these tremendous strengths of the greek system to our full advantage. Thankfully, several greek leaders and administrators are working to correct this issue. Efforts to make more fraternities and sororities accessible to more students are ostensibly pro-greek endeavors, because the end goal is to allow more people a chance to join our exceptional greek community. Having people from so many different backgrounds who want to become a part of the greek system speaks volumes about its appeal to students who desire a rewarding campus experience and a venue for student involvement. The greek community’s unique potential to advance racial equality shouldn’t distract attention from the racial inequalities that exist across the rest of campus, though. The University should work through residence halls, mealtimes and freshmen-mentoring programs to bring students together in all corners of campus life. At a university of 32,000 students, some divisions are inevitable. Some students want to join the quiz bowl team; others would rather play in the band. Such a wide array of inter-
est is one of the desirable attributes of having such a large student body. We should strive to make sure, however, that our extracurricular environment allows people to gather together based on their common interests and personalities, not their race. Similarly, we should make sure that we build inclusivity not for its own sake, but for the sake of the students who would genuinely benefit from and contribute to university organizations and activities. Our University is in somewhat of an awkward position. We are trying to appeal to a national constituency of recruits, ranking agencies and employers while simultaneously preserving our southern identity. Obviously, this will cause some tension. But maintaining our southern charm while advancing equality are not mutually exclusive goals. We just need an open conversation about how to progress as a student body. Do we want a system of racial quotas that require certain demographics for university groups? Can we trust student leaders to move in the right direction independently? What role should University administrators have in facilitating progress? These are the types of questions that student leaders and administrators from across campus should work together to answer. A lot of this work is already happening, but a lot more needs to be done if we are to continue to grow and thrive at the Capstone. Tray Smith is the opinions editor of The Crimson White. His column runs on Thursdays.
I find it unfortunate that members of the SGA Senate have decided to escalate the use of rhetoric and political maneuvers in regards to bill B-30-11, which amends a portion of Title XI of the SGA Code of Laws (COL). Additionally, I think choosing to write The Crimson White to express concerns that should have first been discussed in person highlights the lack of communication that certain senators are willing to have with members of the executive branch. As Senator Hardison points out, the new SGA Constitution, which I took part in writing, provided for a number of structural changes to the Student Government Association. As a result of these structural changes, there is a necessity to update portions of the COL, including Title XI titled “First Year Council,” which delineates the operating procedures of the SGA First Year Council. This summer, I recognized that as Fall 2011 approached, there was a need to rewrite Title XI so the code regarding FYC did not conflict with the stipulations of the SGA Constitution. This was an immediate need. Without amending Title XI, FYC would be unable to function this school year. Upon realizing this need, the Office of the Attorney General completed a review of Title XI and created a proposal reflecting the opinions of the executive branch. Once this proposal was complete, I, as the SGA attorney general, requested the opportunity to meet with Senator Will Pylant’s Rules Committee to formally submit the proposal. At the beginning of this semester, I, along with the Director of FYC and former members of FYC, attended a Rules Committee meeting held to discuss the proposal submitted by my office. It was my hope that such a meeting would establish a precedent of healthy bi-branch communication regarding changes to the COL. During this meeting, portions of the proposal were removed, portions were rewritten, and all was done in a healthy form of open, civil communication. At the conclusion of the meeting, we came to a consensus on a legislative package that both the legislative and executive branches were excited about passing. I was confident that future bills altering the COL would be handled in such a manner. Unfortunately, discussion regarding Senate Bill B-30-11 was not handled in an open form of bi-branch communication. In fact, there was no communication at all. This bill was not discussed during my meeting with the Senate Rules Committee. The executive branch was blindsided by the Senate’s effort to pass Bill B-30-11, which alters a chapter of COL Title XI. Although it was incorrectly cited by its author in yesterday’s column, B-30-11, as originally written, gave the speaker of the Senate and speaker of FYC the authority to call special sessions of FYC. Upon my recommendation, the SGA President chose to veto B-30-11 for the following reasons: (1) We believe that allowing the speaker of the Senate to call a special session of FYC violates FYC’s independence as a separate chamber in the legislative branch. (2) In writing the Constitution, it was the intention of the framers and I that FYC model the SGA Senate in its proceedings. The speaker of the Senate cannot call a special session of Senate, and we believe that FYC should be designed accordingly. (3) B-30-11 conflicts with the legislative proposal I submitted to the Senate Rules Committee in the aforementioned bi-branch meeting. B-30-11 would remove from the proposal Chapter 1100.4 which reads, “First Year Council shall reflect the diverse nature of the student body.” It seems that the effort to pass B-30-11 is more an attempted flex of posturing and political power than one made on sound policy. It is my hope that Senators Hardison and Pylant will not choose to revisit B-30-11.
David Simpson is a senior double majoring in political science and quantitative economics. He is the SGA Attorney General.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR We are UA
I guess in the end, most things worth saying are worth saying even if no one ever hears them. At least that’s the thought that led me to write this. To the UA administration – yes, you. The ones we look up to for support, encouragement, structure and advice. The ones we trust to make decisions for us, represent us and lead us in the right direction. You have done so much to make us proud. But frankly, we are ashamed of a few things as of late. Who is “we?” Well, I am no one. I have been told for years that “I am UA” and that we are “touching lives,” but at the end of the day, I am just one face in a crimson sea. But I have sat in these classrooms, and I have been told that all it takes for injustice to prevail is for good men to do nothing, so I am just no one, not doing nothing. I will not claim to represent the student body, but I can also guarantee that there is a large portion – dare I say a majority – who will no longer tolerate segregated rush. I am writing to say one simple thing: we do not agree. I am a student. I do not have the money that alumni have, and I am not a member of the greek system. I have nothing to offer, really, but myself. I have spoken the praises of the University of Alabama far and wide, but today, for the first time ever, I found myself considering removing my UA window decal. I found myself not wanting to encourage high school students to visit our campus. I’m not even sure I want to go to the football games. And I refuse to encourage one more young person to attend this institution until we change. We are UA. ALL of US. You told us that. Please don’t forget that. Robyn Serum is a doctoral student in political science.
The Crimson White
NEWS
Thursday, September 22 2011
FYC
Miss Sorority Row pageant comes to Bama Theatre By Jared Downing Contributing Writer
Who’s the prettiest gal on Sorority Row? Hard to tell, but we may find out at Friday’s Miss Sorority Row pageant, starting at 6 p.m. at the Bama Theatre. Sixteen damsels will compete with feats of style, poise and character for a chance to win a donation to their house’s charity of choice and, of course, the Miss Sorority Row crown. The Delta Sigma Phi fraternity has sponsored the pageant for the last three years to raise money for the American Red Cross, but half of the proceeds will go to the philanthropic organizations supported by the sororities of the top three contestants. “I tried to make it more of a carefree pageant,” said senior Meschelle Stringer, the event’s coordinator. “The prize is that you win money for charity. You have nothing to lose.” According to Stringer, Friday’s event will resemble an ordinary beauty pageant. The categories include evening gown, gameday attire and a talent display with skills ranging from jazz dance to sign language. Each contestant must also deliver a speech about her sorority’s philanthropic efforts. Freshman Casey Straughn will represent Alpha Omicron Pi with a tap dance. “They’re going to look for poise, speech and overall carriage,” Straughn said. “I want to represent my sorority as best I can.” Straughn is a little nervous about the speech category, where the contestants must prove their mettle beyond the musical numbers and pretty dresses. Allen
Continued from page 1 “I am disappointed in the irregularities that arose during Tuesday night’s First Year Council scoring meeting,” he said. Morrow emphasized that while the applications will be reviewed again to determine which students are given interviews, there is no need for any student to resubmit an application. “This does not compromise people’s applications. The process is starting fresh,” he said. According to Morrow, the process will proceed under the leadership of a new FYC Director, who will be nominated before the SGA Senate meeting tonight and subject to Senate confirmation.
IF YOU GO ... • What: Miss Sorority Row Pageant
• Where: Bama Theatre • When: Friday, 6 p.m. • Cost: $12
Grier, PR chair for Delta Sigma Phi, hopes the event will give authenticity to what he feels is an oft-misunderstood demographic. “Greek life is a big part of the University, and we want to offer another side that isn’t seen as often … this gives girls an opportunity to show themselves as more on campus than just tees and Chacos.” “I’m not a typical pageant girl,” said sophomore Jessie O’Brien, representing Alpha Delta Chi. For gameday attire, she’ll sport not an elegant houndstooth skirt, but rather blue jeans and a coat. O’Brien hopes the pageant will help spotlight her less-thanmainstream Christian sorority. “We aren’t very well known, so maybe that might harm us,” she said. “But I’m doing it because I think it will get us out there in the greek system.” Grier believes the campus at large often overlooks the greek system’s philanthropic efforts. “We get more flak for ‘extracurriculars’ than for the good work we do,” he said. “Whether it’s helping clean up or organizing a Salvation Army warehouse, there’s community service here, it’s just not written about.” Grier expects Friday’s event to bring in $12,000, requiring an attendance of at least 1,000.
CW | Mitchell Hughes The recently expanded Alcove International Tavern in downtown Tuscaloosa is a good place to find top-quality beers and liquor.
Jewelry Boutique
Travel Jewelry Cases
Bring in this Ad for 15% off! 2111 University Blvd. 205.759.5070 www.everydayindulgence.com
5
“This does not compromise people’s applications. The process is starting fresh.” — Seth Morrow, SGA communications director
The SGA Senate Ethics Committee is also reviewing the allegations made against several senators and legislative staff members regarding the selection process, said Senate communications director Austin Gaddis. Due to the overwhelming number of applicants, the announcement of those who will continue to the interview process has been delayed.
Tray Smith contributed to this report.
6
Thursday, September 22, 2011
NEWS
The Crimson White
UAPD community watch coming Street preachers aim to witness to students on campus property
By Melissa Brown Staff Reporter mbrown104@crimson.ua.edu
The SGA announced plans this week for Crimson Watch, an off-campus housing safety initiative coordinated with UAPD and Crimson Choice. “Crimson Watch is similar to the neighborhood watch programs used in many communities, where residents communicate with one another and UAPD about any suspicious activity, neighborhood activities and block safety,” said Katie O’Laughlin, SGA press secretary. UAPD plans to implement the program within the boundaries of their patrol routes. O’Laughlin said these boundaries will be split into three zones of more manageable size. Crimson Watch is organized to facilitate ease of communication between UAPD and residents in the areas, said SGA member Carmen Groom. “Each zone will have one zone leader who will receive information from UAPD to be passed along to the block captains in their zone. Each zone should have a different block captain for every block in the zone,” Groom said. “These block captains are responsible for receiving information from their zone leader and then communicating the information with the rest of the students living on their block.” According to the September 18 SGA press release, Zone 1 consists of Jack Warner Parkway, 7th Street, 8th Street, 10th Avenue, 6th Street, Thomas Street and 11th Avenue.
Open-air preachers choose a controversial method to bring their messages to colleges By Stephen Walker Senior Staff Reporter scwalker1@crimson.ua.edu
Zone 2 encircles 7th Street, Queen City Avenue, 15th Street, 12th Avenue, Paul W. Bryant Drive, 10th Avenue and 8th Street. Paul W. Bryant Drive, 12th Avenue, 15th Street and Hackberry Lane make up the final zone. “All students living in one of the three zones are encouraged to participate by talking with your Crimson Watch zone captain and the UAPD officer assigned to their zone,” O’Laughlin said. “Crimson Watch creates open lines of communication between students, residents and police officials.” UAPD Officer Andy Liles believes that this closer interaction and communication between students and police will result in safer neighborhoods. “Getting involved with
Crimson Watch is an excellent way for students to partner with UAPD to keep the neighborhoods around campus safer,” Liles said. “Like any neighborhood watch program, Crimson Watch depends on residents and police officers working together, and we look forward to getting to know the students in the various neighborhoods each year.” O’Laughlin said UAPD plans to inform Crimson Watch of crime trends in their respective zones in an effort to create more aware residents and a safer neighborhood. For students living outside of the Crimson Watch boundaries who are interested in making their areas safer, O’Laughlin advises being vigilant by implementing safety measures such as deadbolts, window locks and welllit entryways. In addition,
O’Laughlin suggests looking up your neighborhood’s watch program or forming your own. “Get to know your neighbors, and look out for one another,” she said. “Never hesitate to contact the police if something is suspicious.” It may be daunting for busy students to add one more thing to their plate, but getting involved in Crimson Watch or another neighborhood safety watch can be beneficial for all involved. “It is important that students take an active role in the Crimson Watch program, because students are the key to the program’s success,” said Alan Rose, SGA Vice President for External Affairs, in the recent press release. “Safety remains a top concern for SGA, and we are focused on ensuring students are safe both on and off campus.”
TRUCK DRIVERS WANTED THROUGHOUT ALABAMA FLEXIBLE SCHEDULES TO MEET YOUR NEEDS Hiring Solo and Team Drivers in Dedicated, Tanker and Van (OTR, Regional, Teams) Divisions Leasing Owner-Operators Experienced Drivers and Recent Driving School Grads Welcome
EOE M/F/D/V
Inexperienced? Take advantage of Schneider’s Tuition Reimbursement program and get your CDL at a local driving school.
Apply at schneiderjobs.com/newjobs Call 1-800-44-PRIDE for more information
ASBESTOS TESTING Attn: Brake Mechanics If you presently work or have ever worked as an Industrial worker, Railroad worker, or Brake Mechanic, and you were exposed to asbestos prior to 1985, and would like to be evaluated for asbestosis, please call
1-800-291-0050 G. Patterson Keahey (Attorney at Law) One Independence Plaza, Birmingham, AL 35209 No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
is now serving
ICE IC EC COLD LD D
BEER B R open late night Tues-Sat 1130 University Blvd. 345-4354
In recent years, the University of Alabama has been visited by a significant number of people who come to campus to do what many people might consider somewhat unusual: shout Bible verses at students as they walk to and from class. These individuals, known as street preachers, public ministers or open-air preachers, travel around the country preaching on street corners, college campuses and other public places. Ken Lansing, who heads up the public preaching group Banners Unfurled, said he preaches in public because it’s the only way many people will hear the Gospel. “I grew up and went to college, living the party life, never going to any preaching services,” Lansing said. “The only way for anyone to have reached me was to be out where I was at parties and on the college campus. So, I go where there are people who may or may not have access to hearing the Bible.” While some stick to quoting Bible verses about the need to convert to Christianity, other public ministers come across as far more confrontational in their message and method of getting that message across. “Brother” Micah Armstrong, a public minister who has visited the University on many occasions, often shouts insults at pedestrians, calling them names and condemning them to hell for sins such as listening to rock music and watching Hollywood movies. Armstrong often sings a song when he visits college campuses called “It’s Not OK to Be Gay.” Since the University requires a permit for any public event, many of these public ministers are removed from campus. Students express a wide variety of opinions regarding this method of spreading Christianity. “Even though I am a Christian myself, I feel that religion is a private matter
that should only be preached to those who want to listen,” said Aaron Taylor, a sophomore majoring in management information systems. “I personally am not offended by people who preach in public, but I feel that other students with conflicting viewpoints could possibly be offended.”
I think that street preaching is an ineffective method of getting people to convert. People who choose not to be a part of the same faith don’t want to be told they are going to hell unless they convert. —Chris Roberts
Other students feel that the controversial method used by the majority of public ministers ruins what could otherwise be an acceptable message. “I think that street preaching is an ineffective method of getting people to convert,” said Chris Roberts, a junior majoring in finance. “People who choose not to be a part of the same faith don’t want to be told they are going to hell unless they convert.” Alex Mendoza, a junior who is studying nursing at the University, said that while he sympathizes with the ministers’ desire to spread the Gospel, they could find better ways to do it. “My problem with them is the way that they try to convey that message,” said Mendoza. “Instead of being compassionate and loving as Jesus taught us to be, they convey a message of fire and brimstone. If you don’t …repent and convert to their version of the Gospel, you are doomed to go to hell.” In spite of the fact that many public ministers likely preach to more people in a day than most ministers do in a year, public ministers are quick to acknowledge that few people convert as a result of their efforts. “It’s not something that produces very much fruit,” said Lansing. “I wish I could say I was more successful in it, but I’m not dealing with Sunday school children out there.”
Follow us on Twitter
@thecrimsonwhite
The Crimson White
NEWS
Thursday, September 22, 2011
7
Bama Cycling offers an escape, gears up for fall By Ashanka Kumari Contributing Writer
The University of Alabama’s Cycling Club, Bama Cycling, offers members a chance to prepare for and participate in regional and national collegiate cycling competitions while supporting bicycling as a form of recreation, transportation and exercise within the community. Jacob Black, president of Bama Cycling, said the club is a co-ed team that competes primarily in road races throughout the southeast from early February to May. “When we’re not racing, we’re training in group rides and averaging between 20 and 80 miles,” Black said. “We’re a close knit group of people who look to push each other to reach our maximum potential for that season.” For most members of the team, cycling is an escape, Black said. “It gives you something other than papers and deadlines to
Under The Spotlight look forward to throughout the year,” Black said. Kristy Tippey, secretary of Bama Cycling, said cycling helps her relieve stress from everyday activities. “If you are frustrated or something, [cycling] helps you think calmer and clearer,” Tippey said. The cycling club started in 2007 and currently has over 10 members, Black said. There is no strict policy for joining the club, and although members mainly train and participate in races, it is not a requirement to race. “We’re open to all interests of riders, whether it is for recreation or just something to do on the weekends and weekday
afternoons,” Black said. This year, the University implemented a new bicycle policy that requires students to register their bikes. Sam Barr, treasurer of Bama Cycling, said the new bicycle policy is understandable but may be going down a path that he finds negative. “All of the information I have read on the new policy says numerous times that registration is free and not mandatory ‘at this time,’” Barr said. “I feel like they’re opening the door to force bike registration and charge for it in the future. I ride my bike to save on gas, not get stuck in the crazy traffic and to avoid having to pay the transportation depart-
2IҕFLDO 3HDQXW RI The University of Alabama Athletics Perhaps you’ve missed us on campus! We’re happy to serve you at our location just a few blocks from campus.
ts aske ery! B t if v G r deli o f e l ab avail
Boiled Peanuts Chocolates Gummies Jelly Belly Roasted Peanuts Sugar Free Chocolates
205-758-7923 1508 Greensboro Avenue Tuscaloosa,
www.thenutshop.net
10% d isc UA St ount with ud Emplo ent or yee ID
Al 35401
ment for a parking pass.” Barr said the University should add more bicycle racks around campus, rather than removing them. “It’s very frustrating,” Barr said. “I feel the University should do all it can to promote, not discourage, cycling as a mode of transportation for students. It’s much faster than walking and far less pollutant than driving.” Black said he is fortunate to be a part of the cycling club and is glad he joined in 2009. “I hadn’t ever played any sports and was only vaguely interested in cycling after attending one of the leisurely Friday afternoon rides at the beginning of that semester,” Black said. “However, since then, I’ve competed in about 30 races and have grown to love the sport and the team I’ve been lucky enough to be a part of.” Barr said that Bama Cycling is a group of people who share a common interest in riding bikes. “We don’t care if you’re a sea-
Submitted Photo Members of the Bama Cycling club at the Sumatanga training race. soned pro or a newbie,” Barr said. “It doesn’t matter what kind of bike you have, as long as you like to ride.” Bama Cycling encourages anyone who is interested in joining to add his or her name to the mailing list at bamacycling.com/ mailing-list. “Even though we’re a small
team, we love to see new faces and have the opportunity to show them that, with a little bit of sweat and dedication, they can get to a level they wouldn’t have imagined possible,” Black said. For more information on Bama Cycling, visit their website at bamacycling.com.
8 Thursday, September 22, 2011
NEWS
The Crimson White
AAA continues chalking By Judah Martin Contributing Writer For many organizations at the University, it is a regular practice to create chalk illustrations around campus, particularly between the Ferguson Center and the Quad. Among the organizations that create such illustrations is the 2-year-old group known as the Alabama Atheists and Agnostics. This semester, AAA has chalked advertisements for the club that read: “Don’t believe in God? You are not alone!� as well as quotes from atheism ads, such as “Millions of Americans are good without God� and even the drawing of a “flying spaghetti monster� that reflects the relatively lighthearted attitude of the organization. Some of the quotes that were chalked onto the sidewalk were recently met with a heavy amount of opposition,
however. “Over the course of a week, all of the chalking we did were defaced in some way,� said AAA president Gordon Maples. “One of the chalkings, we made a point to repair, and it was repeatedly defaced over the course of the week. We have continued to repair it each time it has been damaged in order to make a point.� This fact would seemingly indicate that there is a substantial opposition to not only AAA chalkings, but to the organization itself. Maples, although he admits that AAA does not appeal to everyone, said he believes the opposite. “Outside of our target demographic, non-theistic students, people seem on the whole either apathetic or mildly curious,� Maples said. “There are students on campus who do seem to take offense to our organization’s existence, but they appear to be in a minority.� Kaitlyn O’Neal, a freshman
majoring in advertising, said she thinks students should be tolerant of the beliefs of their peers, yet said she didn’t necessarily agree with what the club had chalked. “I believe that everyone has a right to their opinion, as long as they don’t sound threatening or try to force their beliefs upon you,� she said. “As long as you don’t, then it’s okay.� According to Maples, AAA members continue chalking, despite the fact that their creations are often erased, to prove a point. “We are not discouraged by these actions, and we will continue to reach out to our fellow non-theists in the student body,� Maples said. “We are trying to reach out to interested students with our chalking, just as any other student group does. We continue to chalk because it works: we have new members coming in all the time that would not have known about the group if not for our chalking.�
7 Parties 4 Game Days 2 Gifts + 1 Wishlist Vintage Vibe WHO SAID MATH WAS HARD? 406 Queen City Ave.
(205).722.2580
Find us on Facebook
CW | Megan Smith There are over 400 dogs at the Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter that need to be adopted.
SHELTER Continued from page 1
found a home at Metro in the weeks following the tornado. During the summer months, shelter employees worked long hours placing animals in adoptive homes and sending them to less crowded shelters around the country. Some were sent as far away as Long Island, N.Y. and Texas. A total of 179 were reunited with their families. The staff is now relieved that the busy summer days have slowed down. Still, as the only shelter serving Tuscaloosa, Northport and greater Tuscaloosa County, things are always hectic. On a daily basis, Metro houses between 200 and 250 animals in their kennels. “We don’t turn any animals away – we don’t pick and choose,� Hill said. “The only time we slow things down is when we run out of cage space. We ask people to then wait and bring the animals back. We have to do what we can do for the comfort of the animals – we can’t house too many or it’s detrimental to them.� Despite having several full-
time employees, there is always work to be done at the shelter. Trained staff members take care of feedings, medications and behavioral evaluations – but the dogs and cats need bathing, exercise and social interactions as well. This is where University students come in. “We always need volunteers for walking, bathing the dogs and interaction with the cats,� Hill said. “We’re also trying to get our nursing home visitation going again – there’s a lot of prep time that goes into that.� Volunteers don’t have to have any experience. Simply attend an orientation held Thursday at 10 a.m. or 3 p.m. Hill urges anyone who cannot make the Thursday meetings to call the shelter to schedule another appointment for orientation. While Metro is the only animal welfare organization in the area with a public kennel, there are numerous other organizations for students to volunteer their time and get involved with. According to their website, humanesocietyofwa.org, The Humane Society of West Alabama is always looking for animal lovers who want to vol-
unteer. Opportunities include working with the animals, foster care, or working on publicity or fundraising campaigns. For students who want to get involved and meet like-minded individuals while doing so, Bama PAWS may be the place for you. Bama PAWS is the UA student organization affiliated with T-Town PAWS, a non-profit animal welfare organization. “We have lots of fun events planned for the fall already,� said Madison Gordon, President of Bama PAWS. These events include fundraisers, a dog splash at the Rec pool and working the adoption room at a local pet supplies store. In addition to service hours, Bama PAWS members get to check out dogs for exercise and socialization – a great opportunity for students who can’t have a pet in their dorm or apartment. Wherever students want to give their time, Hill believes volunteering with animals helps individuals as much as it does the dogs and cats. “I think it’s a good thing – especially people that are away from home for the first time,� Hill said. “It’s a big comfort to have something to take care of.�
Congratulations WR WKH )UHVKPDQ )RUXP 0HPEHUV 7KH IROORZLQJ QDPHV UHĂ HFW D JURXS RI IUHVKPHQ WKDW ZLOO OHDYH D ODVWLQJ OHJDF\ RQ 7KH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI $ODEDPD FDPSXV
Brianna Adams - Gregg Adcock - Lizzie Anthony - Hannah Armstrong - Kati Baker - Taylor Benjamin - Jackson Bentley - Julia Bolognesi - Anna Boyce Sarah Braslow - Holly Brazeal - Bradley Bringardner - Cortez Burney - Joanna Bushardt - Anna Cabaniss - Carneisha Cain - Kellianne Campbell - McKinley Carder - Michael Carton - Gianna Ceophas - Audra Chace - Bryan Clark Catherine Cofer - Jeffrey Collins - Bonny Cornelius - Kellen Cowen - Mary “Elli� Cowles - Jordan Crow - Rachel Crowley - Ryan Cummins - Kelsey Curtis Ashley Dawson Nichole Dennis Austin Dickinson Katherine Drake - Teighlor Driver - Danielle DuBose Ashton Dumdei - Elizabeth Engeriser - Addison Esoda Allison Farris - Charlotte Fleishel - Taylor Forst - Chole Fraser - Seyed Gebriel - Zachary Gentle - Riley Goodman Michael Goetsch - Mia Griffin - William Groover - Emily Gumbrecht - Angela H. Veloza - Zachary Hall - Tarif Haque Emily Higginbotham - Davis Hudson - Mary Claire Hunter William Jackson Julia Johnson Sean Johnson-Sippial Kaitlyn Johnston Kaylyn Jones Caroline Keeler James Kemp Thomas Knowles Olivia Knox Caitlin Koranda John Lightbourne
Freshman Forum
Elizabeth Larson - Michael Lasonczyk - Chelsea LeBlanc - Madison Lingren Katie Lyda - Edward Mackey - David Mallett - Erin McMinn - Malory McLemore - Luckie Milad - Katherine Miles - Caleb Miller - Abigail Mirick Allison Montgomery - Megan Morgan - Alex Morris - Michael Moss - Caitlyn Myers - John Oberkor - Francis Nisi - Will Pierce - Christopher North - Undre Phillips - Emily Nosenchuk - Grace Pandola John Pounders - Lindsay Powell Micaela Preston - Ronte Pritchett - Angela Ray - Parker Rice - Elisa Richards Elizabeth Roberts Shannon Robinson Olivia Roe - Sarah Saint - Alexis Schutz - Paige Shell - Rachael Sherrer Haley Simpson - Rachel Simpson - Benjamin Sleight Callie Smith - Burkely Smith - Morgan Smith - Cassie Snodgrass - Rachel Solino - Maria Spano Sarah Steeley William Stephens - Casey Stephenson - Julia Stewart Kevin Stoffer - Abbey Tadros - Carlton Tarpley - Garrett Teal - Jennifer Thomas - Marie Tucker - Kayla Turner Mary Catherine Turner David Walker David Wallace Jackson Willis Elizabeth Wilson Tiffany Wilson Taylor Wood Dominique Yantko Birman Yuliya Jasmine Zellars
For questions or additional information, SOHDVH FRQWDFW /LWVD 2UEDQ DW OHRUEDQ#VD XD HGX RU FDOO
/HDGHUVKLS 6FKRODUVKLS 6HUYLFH 6LQFH
FOOTBALL NOTEBOOK
By Laura Owens lkowens@crimson. ua.edu @laurako_O
Head coach Nick Saban gave what he believes to be the final word on the situation with transfer wide receiver Duron Carter for this season. “As of right now, he has to be here a year in residence before he’s eligible, so he’ll still have two years to play after that, but as of right now, it doesn’t look like he will be eligible for this season,” Saban said. Saban mentioned there was one piece of information they hadn’t received and may never receive but did not elaborate further.
Game plan Saban said the team’s intangibles, such as moral character, have been strong this year, but though they’ve been consistent in the way they’ve competed, they still need to work on consistency in execution. “More faith, trust and confidence in doing things the right way – that will help you have success,” Saban said. “I think that comes from knowl-
edge and experience at some positions, and I think other players just need to be more focused on what they have to do to be successful and understand the importance of doing things the right way.” Linebacker Alex Watkins said the defense will be okay if it minds its p’s and q’s. “We’ve got to adjust to the right calls and stuff, and then we’ll play the game plan,” he said. “If we play the game plan, we should be successful.” Tight end Brad Smelley is currently second on the team in receptions, with seven receptions for 72 yards. He said he hopes he continues to get the ball thrown to him.
Arkansas not just an offensive team Saban said in past years, Arkansas has been more of an offensive team, but this season they are more well-rounded. “This is a good team all the way around,” he said. “There was a time when they were pretty good on offense, struggled a little on defense. Each year, they’ve gotten progres-
SPORTS
Carter ineligible for the season
Tide players prepare for Saturday’s game against Arkansas at the practice facility on Wednesday.
sively better on both sides, and I think they’re a very good team this year.” Smelley said one thing about their defense is the level of experience. “Experience is their biggest thing,” he said. “They’ve got a lot of guys that have been there before. They’re a good bunch of guys. Every SEC defense we’re going to go against is going to be a challenge, so we’re ready for that challenge.”
Off the field hobbies Watkins graduated last December with a degree in health studies and is currently working on another degree in socio-education, looking towards maybe coaching or teaching. But outside of school, he said he loves to cook. His specialties include gumbo and lasagna. He gets the skill from his parents. “My mom’s a very creative person; my dad likes to throw things together,” he said. Watkins named a few other players that can cook and grill, such as defensive linemen Josh Chapman and Damion Square.
CW | John Michael Simpson
Page 9 • Thursday, September 22, 2011 Editor • Tony Tsoukalas crimsonwhitesports@ gmail.com
SPORTS
this weekend
FOOTBALL
Crimson Tide turning to Smelley in senior year By Brett Hudson Senior Sports Reporter bbhudson@crimson.ua.edu @Brett_Hudson The tight end is arguably the position that has seen the most change in the past 40 years of college football. In the era of the wishbone offense, the tight end was basically an additional offensive lineman with a different title. Now, the tight end has a bigger role in the aerial attack than ever in college football, and Alabama’s use of the position is no exception. Starting quarterback AJ McCarron has turned to tight end Brad Smelley seven times this season, more than anyone else, besides Marquis Maze. Smelley seems to enjoy his prominence in the Crimson Tide’s passing game. “I feel like I can make plays, and me and AJ have good chemistry,” Smelley said. “I’m looking forward to making more plays in the future.” While Smelley’s numbers stand out for a tight end, he has been one of many for the Tide this season. Twelve players have caught passes for the Tide this season. “AJ spreads the ball out well,” Smelley said. “He really goes through his reads and progressions, and he finds the open man.” When asked if Smelley wants to lobby to McCarron for more throws, Smelley said,
JAMES
Continued from page 1
exposure that it deserves, when people know what I do, they know they respect that. I think, being a track athlete, you have to be strong mentally as a person and be dedicated. There’s a connection between me and track.” Success has come for James since he entered his teenage years. Through all of his
Tight end Brad Smelley catches a pass during practice this week. Smelley is second on the team in receptions this year with seven. Alex Gilbert on our team can play better, and our expectation is that we will improve and play better. Brad [Smelley] has played very well, practices well every day and has “Ultimately, that’s going to be the game plan, been a very good special teams me getting open and AJ finding me. He’s going to player for us. do what he does. If I’m open, he’s going to get “Michael has done a really good it to me.” job blocking and has had a few opportunities catching the ball — Brad Smelley and has done that very well. We have some younger players do what he does. If I’m open, he’s “The tight ends have done a good that continue to develop that we job,” head coach Nick Saban think will be helpful to us down going to get it to me.” Outside of Smelley, the rest of said. “We think every position the road,” Saban said. “Ultimately, that’s going to be the tight end unit has been a big the game plan, me getting open part of this Alabama offense this and AJ finding me. He’s going to year.
One of those other players is junior tight end and former defensive lineman Brandon Lewis, who received praise from Smelley. “He’s a big guy,” Smelley said. “I think he’s the biggest guy in the room now. He’s a train wreck when he hits someone in the hole. He can catch the ball and run it well, too. He’s a good athlete; we didn’t recruit him for nothing.” Moving forward to Southeastern Conference play and the upcoming game with Arkansas, preparation remains the same for Smelley and the tight end group. “We’re looking to come out and practice hard everyday,” Smelley said. “That’s a big thing we harp on in the tight end room.” One big thing for this game has been the apparent clashing of the titans with Arkansas’ prolific offense taking on Alabama’s top-tier defense. However, the Alabama offense has some firepower of its own, especially in Smelley. “They have a good offense, but we have a good offense, too,” Smelley said. “We want to come out here and score as many points as possible and play well. Ultimately, the main goal is to be efficient.” The goal for the Arkansas game may be efficiency, but Smelley has much bigger goals for his senior season as a whole. “I want to win games,” Smelley said. “All of them.”
in August. There, he posted a personal best time of 44.60 seconds in the 400m and defeated defending champion LaShawn Merritt for the gold medal. Merritt was seven years James’ senior at the time of the race. As a pro, James has had the opportunity to travel the world and meet some of his favorite athletes. “I get to see a lot of places,” he said. “I get to travel a lot and meet a lot of new people
“I have great friends back home and here at the University. They don’t treat me like I’m different, and that helps me stay grounded. — James Kirani achievements and accolades, he stays humble. “What keeps me grounded is my family and being around good people,” he said. “I have great friends back home and here at the University. They don’t treat me like I’m different, and that helps me stay grounded. Representing my country and making everyone proud, I think those are the factors that keep me grounded.” James’ last competition was at the World Championships
and athletes – athletes that I look up to and admire. It has a lot of advantages, and it is a lot of fun.” James said the main difference between being a college and professional athlete is having to do everything on his own; there is no set schedule. As a professional, he says there is no time for immaturity. James will have a month of rest until he starts back training. Until his next competition, which will be next year, he is
Kirani James recently won a world championship in the 400 m in South Korea. Wikimedia Commons | Andre Zehtbauer still attending classes as a student and business major at the University. James has accomplished almost everything possible for an athlete. One of his next
stops will be the 2012 Summer Olympics – sports’ biggest stage. “I think that right now, he is one of the favorites to win the gold,” Glance said. “Even
though he’s young and just has a year of experience under his belt, I still think that he’s such a great talent and a blessed young man that good things are going to happen for him.”
FRIDAY • Women’s soccer vs. Vanderbilt: 7 p.m. • Women’s volleyball vs. Auburn: 7 p.m. • Women’s Tennis Furman Fall Classic: All day • Women’s Golf Pac12/SEC MercedezBenz Challenge: All day
SATURDAY • Football vs Arkansas: 2:30 p.m. • Women’s Golf Pac12/SEC MercedezBenz Challenge: All day • Women’s Tennis Furman Fall Classic: All day
SUNDAY • Women’s Volleyball vs Georgia: 12:30 p.m. • Women’s Soccer vs Kentucky: 1 p.m. • Women’s Golf: All day • Women’s Tennis Furman Fall Classic: All day
The Crimson White
10
SPORTS
SPORTS BRIEFS
IN
NOT IN
Thursday, September 22, 2011
SOCCER
Tide ready for Vanderbilt, Kentucky By Miranda Murphy Sports Reporter
SEC Associate Commissioner Charles Bloom denied reports that the SEC has extended a bid to the University of Missouri. In a phone interview, Bloom told USA Today that Texas A&M was the only school that the conference has contacted recently. “The SEC has not extended an invitation to any school beyond Texas A&M since it extended invitations to Arkansas and South Carolina.” An A&M invitation is contingent on the entirety of the Big 12 football conference
to agree not to pursue legal actions against the SEC. The Big 12 is currently waiting on decisions from Texas and Oklahoma on whether the two schools will leave the conference for the Pac 12. Bloom also rebuffed rumors of a Missouri invitation from last season during last season’s talks of conference realignment. If A&M does in fact join the SEC, it would bring the conference to 13 teams. Many believe that the SEC would then add another team in order to make the number of teams an even 14.
Delivers.
The Alabama soccer team is getting ready for its first two Southeastern Conference matches against Kentucky and Vanderbilt this weekend. “We’re trying to get fired up this week, and it’s not hard to do that,” senior K.K. Duffy said. “These games are conference play, so they mean a lot more in terms of making the SEC tournament.” The Crimson Tide had an 8-3-2 record before falling to Vanderbilt and Kentucky last year. “Those two games were the derail of our season last year,” Duffy said. “Everyone’s pretty fired up to go back and get redemption from last year.” The University of Kentucky lost their first game over the weekend to Dayton, while Vanderbilt has a 6-2 record so far. Head coach Todd Bramble said the Tide will be able to keep
Delivery 205.826.6674
up with the opposing teams this weekend. “I don’t expect a big goal differential,” Bramble said. “The games are going to be tight from start to finish with these teams.” Bramble said the team is focusing on sharpening certain areas to prepare for this weekend.
“There are not a lot of drastic or dramatic changes right now,” Bramble said. “When you get into this type of game, it’s about attention to detail.” The Tide will play both games at home, an advantage the team didn’t have last year. “It’s always nice to get our first SEC games at home in front of
VOLLEYBALL
Bama takes on rivals Auburn, Georgia By Morgan Upton Contributing Writer
On Campus Ca
CW | John Michael Simpson The Crimson Tide is looking to beat two SEC teams this weekend.
our crowd,” junior Ashley Willis said. “It takes away the nerve of starting conference play.” The Tide has won its last three games, with Willis scoring two of the four goals scored in the games. “She’s gotten better each season,” Bramble said. “We’re always a better team when we can get her in the attack position.” Willis said she has more confidence in the field this year because she’s a junior. “I think I’m attacking a little more than I have been in the past two years,” Willis said. “The coaches and team have put a lot of trust in me, and that allows me to move forward.” Friday’s game against Vanderbilt will honor senior K.K. Duffy, and the game Sunday will honor Carly Mygrants. Alabama will be host Vanderbilt at 7 p.m. on Friday and Kentucky at 1 p.m. on Saturday at the Alabama Soccer Stadium.
The University of Alabama volleyball team travels this weekend to face Auburn on Friday and Georgia on Sunday. After dropping its first two conference matches, the Crimson Tide is eager to get a strike in the win column. Head coach Ed Allen says his team must continue to focus on consistency if they want to win games. “Number one, we’ve got to consistently execute skills, both offensively and defensively,” Allen said. Allen said the team needed to do a better job of controlling what happens at the line. Alabama averages 1.2 errors per set in serve receptions. He
said putting balls away with only one or two hits was key for his team. He noted when the team plays at the level it’s capable of, the errors go away; the problem for Alabama is getting the team to perform at that level consistently. The Tide should have no problem with intensity in its match against in-state rival Auburn. “I mean, it’s Auburn,” he said. “Everybody gets up to play Auburn, I think. We’re in the same state, and it’s pretty clear to us who we think is the most talented team in this state on a regular basis, and we need to go in and prove that.” Both teams have 6-6 records and are looking for their first
SEC win heading into Friday night’s game. Although the teams have the same records statistically, Alabama has the better numbers, but not by much. The biggest advantage will come from attacks. Alabama will continue to rely on junior outside hitter Kayla Fitterer, who averages almost two more kills per game than Auburn’s outside hitter, Kelly Fidero. After Friday night’s matchup, Alabama will travel to Athens, Ga., to prepare for Sunday’s competition. At press time, Georgia was in a three-game losing streak. Both Alabama and Georgia have Friday matchups, and the Bulldogs will also be looking for their first SEC victory. After starting strong, Georgia
struggled through a tough nonconference schedule, only defeating Liberty, Florida A&M, Kennesaw State and Samford. The Bulldogs have been a better home team, with a record of 3-1, as opposed to their 0-4 away record. Alabama will have to clean up the mistakes to defeat Georgia. The Bulldogs have tight ball-handling skills, with only four errors on the season. Georgia’s disciplined play will be tough for the Tide, but Allen said his team has been focusing on improving their defensive skills in this week’s practices. “We’re focusing on our ability to defend,” Allen said. “We also worked on first and second ball terminate.”
We ready...
FOR YA’LL!! Watch out for the Bama vs Arkansas GameDay Special this Friday! Tweet us @TheCrimsonWhite with #GAMEDAY for a chance to have your t weet featured in The CW!
The Crimson White
11
LIFESTYLES
Thursday, September 22, 2011
All-girl band pays tribute to Rage Against the Machine By Courtney Stinson Contributing Writer
Take the Power Back, the world’s only all-female Rage Against the Machine tribute band, comes to Tuscaloosa’s Green Bar this Saturday night from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. “Simply put, people can expect to see four women from Nashville playing loud protest songs [originally sung] by four men from Los Angeles,� said Take the Power Back guitarist Sarah Rose Jones. Much like Rage Against the Take the Power Back will play at Machine, this Nashville band promises a high-energy show that will make the audience the Machine’s music to enjoy the think. However, you don’t need show. “People who had no idea we to be familiar with Rage Against
Submitted Photo the Green Bar on Saturday. were a tribute band and were completely unfamiliar with the songs have come up to us after
shows to say they had a great time,� Jones said. Take the Power Back intends to create a live sound that resembles Rage Against the Machine’s recordings as closely as possible. They do not take many liberties with the songs but sometimes incorporate variations that Rage Against the Machine does live. Take the Power Back’s members enjoy the challenge that comes with emulating the subtleties of Rage Against the Machine’s sound, like in April when they played Rage Against the Machine’s second album, Evil Empire, from start to finish. The band seeks to inform, as well as entertain. Their performances are not just about the music, they are also about the
message. “It’s great if Rage winds up with some new fans or renewed interest from people who are already fans as a result of seeing our band,� Jones said. “We love playing their songs and [sharing] their message of rebellion, activism and political awareness. Their songs are often like a counterculture history lesson, so hopefully listeners learn something (or refresh their memories) as well.� In addition to winning new fans and appreciation for Rage Against the Machine’s music, Take the Power Back hopes to change people’s attitudes about what women can do musically and the quality that tribute bands can offer.
“Our performances definitely go against the grain of what people expect to see and hear from a girl band and a female vocalist,� Jones said. “Rage Against the Machine’s core audience is primarily male, and oftentimes guys come up to tell us they came to the show thinking we either wouldn’t be able to pull off playing Rage’s songs or that, at the very least, a bunch of girls would make a terrible imitation.� The band encourages people to come out, have a good time and see a unique show Saturday. The Green Bar is located at 2209 4th Street in downtown Tuscaloosa. The bar opens at 7 p.m. and Take the Power Back begins playing at 9 p.m. There
Kadesh and the Perfect Strangers brings hip-hop, jazz fusion to Bo’s By Alex Cohen Senior Staff Reporter cohen.alex.c@gmail.com
Check us out at cw.ua.edu
Most people think of hiphop in a limited number of ways. Maybe the typical image includes a solo singer or rapper, spitting and scatting lyrics through brass teeth over a prerecorded drum beat. But Kadesh and the Perfect Strangers is not your typical hip-hop group. The Perfect Strangers’ tunes echo from warm instruments, not speakers, and the only brass Kadesh carries is his trombone. On Friday, Sept. 30, Bo’s Bar will host K+PS at 10 p.m. until close. This marks the band’s
first show since the summer. To get in, you’ll need $5 and an ID that shows you’re at least 19. “It’s somewhat of a comeback show for us,� said Adrian Marmolejo, a senior in New College and bassist for K+PS. “A chance for the band to have some good, funky fun.� K+PS have been playing music in Tuscaloosa since the spring of 2009. At that time, Ryan Davis, also known as the rapper Kadesh, was trying to get his hip-hop career off the ground. But he wasn’t interested in the status quo. “I didn’t want to just write songs to instrumental tracks like other amateur rappers,� said Davis, an MBA graduate
student, as well as front man and trombonist for K+PS. “I wanted to do shows around Tuscaloosa with a live band.� With a vision, Kadesh set out to befriend his Perfect Strangers. He found them in a classmate, Jake Smith, and two members of the Alabama Jazz Ensemble, Adrian Marmolejo and Michael Battito. After jamming with them individually, Davis knew he had found his band – one capable of making his dream of hip-hop with an instrumental focus a reality. “We consistently mix hip-hop with rock, funk and jazz,� Davis said. “You could produce that yourself; any music producer can make an intricate beat. But
it’s always better to do it with a band of talented musicians.� The members initially were uncertain whether or not their college town’s crowd would accept the music. After all, mixing trombone improvisation with hip-hop and jazz doesn’t exactly have precedent. That doubt eventually washed away. “Maybe we were unsure before we found our niche,� said Jake Smith, a senior in New College and original guitarist for K+PS (the band’s current guitarist is sophomore Jack Thomason). “But people loved it. It was something different – one of the only ways to see some hip hop influence in
“Ryan knows a lot of people through New College and Creative Campus,â€? Battito said. “He’s great with connections • What: Kadesh and and marketing.â€? the Perfect Strangers While Davis’ tactics bring the crowd, their eclectic • Where: Bo’s Bar sound keeps them coming back for more. • When: Friday, Sept. “It’s a big melting pot of 30 at 10 p.m. music,â€? Marmolejo said. “It’s really open, and it’s real• Cost: $5 ly jazzy,â€? Battito said. Whatever genre they represent, every member of the original band –interviewed town.â€? That niche has steadily individually – said their crowds grown in the past year. Battito, “get crunk.â€? For updates about K+PS and the band’s drummer, credits Davis’s advertising skills with their upcoming shows, follow @KadeshFlow on Twitter. ensuring their popularity.
IF YOU GO ...
IF YOU NEED TO t (FU B 3FMPBEBCMF 1SFQBJE $BSE ÂŽ
Get the reloadable Visa prepaid card for safe and secure purchases wherever Visa debit cards are accepted. No overdraft fees. No minimum balance requirements.
t 1BZ CJMMT Western Union electronic bill payment service lets you pay bills conveniently and reliably.
t $BTI DIFDLT Cash checks – including handwritten, out-of-state, third party, business, government and payroll – and get your cash immediately.
t 4FOE BOE SFDFJWF NPOFZ ÂŽ
Western Union Money Transfer services let you send cash to almost anywhere around the world, quickly and conveniently.
8& 3& )&3& Regions Now Banking lets you bank your way, with or without a checking account, while providing you with the award-winning customer service you expect. SM
Visit your nearest Regions branch or visit regions.com/nowbanking.
Š 2011 Regions Bank. Terms, conditions, fees and charges may apply. Services may not be available at all Regions locations. Visit regions. com/nowbanking or see a Regions associate for details. The Western Union name, logo and related trademarks and service marks, owned by Western Union Holdings, Inc., are used with permission.
12 Thursday, September 22, 2011
LIFESTYLES
The Crimson White
‘Purgatorio’ offers intimate retelling of classic myth By Julie Fry Contributing Writer
The director jogs around the stairs in the Allen Bales Theater, watching the actors embrace for what might be the hundredth time, making sure it looks perfect from every angle. He seems to have an “ah-ha” moment when they finally get it right. Since they started Purgatorio at the beginning of the semester, the actors have had to engage every angle of their performance on stage because the audience surrounds the stage from all four sides. “It is a rare arrangement to see,” said Bill Ronchak, general manager of Purgatorio. “Being in the round allows the versatil-
ity of making what is already a very close space more compact, which is really vital for a piece like this.” Purgatorio is a dramatic discourse between two married people based on the Greek myth of Jason and Madea. In the myth, the man cheated on his wife with a younger woman, and the wife killed their children. The man and woman are set in a purgatory that is sterile and maddening, similar to an insane asylum, where they are meant to work out their problems. According to the director, it is intense subject matter. “It has to be believable,” said Stephen Brunson, who plays “Man” in the story. You cannot judge what your character does.
You can’t judge cheating on your wife with a younger woman, or else you can’t play that character. You have to understand why they would do it.” Stephen Brunson and Amy Handra are the leads of the play and are both in their 3rd and final year of the graduate MFA acting program. To prepare for the dress rehearsal, Handra and Brunson warm up physically and vocally, run through all their lines and do a fight call, which tests combat moves to make sure they are safe. “This play is demanding first of all because of the endurance; it’s 80 minutes and there are only two of us,” Brunson said. “The only other thing that’s really demand-
ing is the constant awareness of where your body is and keeping that constant awareness masked.” Both the actors and the director, Jimmy Kantos, take classes, teach classes and have to study on top of working on the play. Kantos said he was happy with the actors because of the dedication they have put into the play. “As a director, the first thing you look for is work ethic – talent is a bonus,” Kantos said. “What I have is the best of both worlds – I’ve got two extremely talented graduate actors to work with, and I’ve got two people with unbelievable work ethic.” Kantos chose Purgatorio because of its intensity and dark subject matter. The style is dif-
ferent from anything the theater department has done before. He said that by the end of the 80 minutes, both the audience and actors will be exhausted. Kantos said the collaboration of himself, the actors, costume designers and managers took the play from his original vision to a complete show. Opening night is Monday, Sept. 26, and the show will run every night through Oct. 1 at 7:30 p.m. and on Oct. 2 at 2 p.m. in the Allen Bales Theater. Tickets are $10 for everyone and can be purchased online or at the box office in Rowand-Johnson Hall. “I think the show is riveting, fascinating, incredibly interesting, and it really has powerful writing and powerful perfor-
IF YOU GO ... • What: Purgatorio • Where: Allen Bales Theater
• When: Sept. 26 – Oct. 1 at 7:30 p.m., Oct. 2 at 2 p.m.
• Cost: $10
mances,” Ronchak said. “Plus, you get to sit on the stage. That’s a rare thing for shows, and according to the director, the seats on the stage are the best in the house.”
COLUMN | TRAVEL
Guatemala is college students’ cheap alternative to Costa Rica By Jared Downing
Guatemala’s Cahabón River flows down the tiny valley of Semuc Champey like a shotgun slug. The streams from the valley fall into seven cascading pools of turquoise, so still you can hear the monkeys in the forest. While underground, the river writhes and thrashes through a limestone labyrinth, erupting from a cavern a half-mile away. They used to lower tourists over the edge with a rope; they stopped
when a German died. In Guatemala, it takes someone getting killed before they force you to stop doing something awesome. Guides in the modest Semuc Champey take you into the bowels of caves with nothing but a candle and then let you jump into the water from a 30-foot bridge. But even Tikal, the granddaddy of Mayan ruins, only recently stopped allowing tourists to ascend its highest ziggurat on the original stone steps…after some-
one fell down and died. Nestled in the choke of Central America, Guatemala is a poor man’s Costa Rica, or rather, a college student’s Costa Rica. It has the same jungle waterfalls, sputtering volcanoes and ruined cities, but they are all viewable on $20 to $30 a day and without the guardrails, artificial lighting, or guards who say, “No, you can’t creep out onto that ledge for a Submitted Photo better look.” In a way, you get what you pay Downing enjoys coffee while in for. You won’t find many posh Guatemala.
resorts or botanical rainforest safaris outside of Antigua (the country’s one really developed place). It’s a life of backpacker dorms and bottled water, where a hot shower is a treat and your bus just may have live chickens shoved in the luggage rack. But it has something you can’t find in the air-conditioned bungalows of Costa Rica and Cancun. It’s a spirit that arises amidst those backpacker dorms and rundown Internet cafés. In this world, a perfect stranger can
Friday 9/23 Ryan Kinder DJ C White
Saturday 9/24 Goldy Locks DJ C White Happy Hour: 4-9pm Everyday
become your tightest comrade, and a romance can blossom in a night. Those who travel here are young people who have nothing better to do than enjoy themselves, who spend their days having adventures and their nights swapping stories over poker and bad beer. Safer than Honduras and Nicaragua but cheaper than Costa Rica and Mexico, Guatemala is just right for the college traveler. It’s full of adventure, with none of the handholding.
Fall Greek Boxing Tourny Benefiting B e the American Cancer Society
Beginning October 3 E Email Casey Flowers at cdflowers86@yahoo.com before Sept. 28 if you’d like to participate.
$1.50 Domestics $3 Pitchers & Wells For private bookings call 205.345.4848 or email info@roundersonthestrip.com
LT UT.o rg
Food, Fun and Football after Five. Get pre-season analysis or post-game comments with Sports Editor Cecil Hurt.
THIS MONDAY NIGHT beginning at 6 PM b eg gin nning g a Temerson Square T Downtown Tuscaloosa CHECK TIDESPORTS.COM FOR COMPLETE DETAILS – TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE GE
FREE FOOD AND SPECIAL GIVEAWAYS QUANTITIES LIMITED - WHILE THEY LAST
STAY FOR MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
13
The Crimson White
CAMPUS 3-4 Bedroom Houses for Rent. $800 per month. Fall 2011. Walking Distance. Please call 752-1277. Lease & deposit required. No pets.
House For Sale FOR STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONALS Only $3500 down will move you into a newly remodled 2,3, or 4 bedroom manufactured home! Starting at just $550 a month (Includes site lease, refuse, lawn and landscape service and ¿rst 2,000 gals water) Move to COUNTRY RIDGE, an elite, gated manufactured home community ! Safe, serene, country living just 10 mins. south of Tuscaloosa . These homes are perfect for students, retirees, and the up and coming young professional. WE FINANCE ! Call Cindy or Sonya now at 205-752-2004 www.country-ridge.com
Apartment For Rent
ROLL
CAMPUS- Behind the University Strip. Small Ef¿ciency Apartments. $300-350/ mo. Utilities included. Lease and deposit required. No pets. Call 752-1277. WILLOW WYCK 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath, perfect for roommates, ¿ve minutes from Campus. Move-In Special. Preleasing Available. 3919690 CAMPUS 3 BLOCKS away 1 bedroom apartments, Hackberry Place. $400-$425. Water and garbage included. Lease and deposit required. No
TIDE ROLL Help Wanted Sublease
facebook.com/ TheCrimsonWhite
pets. Call 752-1277 1BED/1BATH apartment for sublease at Forest Trail in Northport. $588/mo with civic employment discount otherwise $735/mo. Large living space, safe, quiet. Perfect for grad student!! (205)535-6317 1 BDRM/BATH NICE APRTMNT NEAR UA QUIET GOOD PARKING COLD AC/HEAT UNIT OCT 2 $350 (423)503-4355 CRIMSON COMMONS ROOM AVAILABLE Crimson commons (sister building of the Chimes) room /bath available sublease starting IMMEDIATELY or in January 2012. $700 per month, secure building, gated parking garage, balcony, rooftop deck. Located only 3 1/2 blocks from stadium, steps away from campus/ and the strip.
Follow us on
(205)534-1055 !BARTENDING! $300/ day potential, no experience necessary. Training courses available. (800)965-6520 Ext214. ALL BLOOD TYPES NEEDED Southern Blood Services, Inc. 205-759-4007 EARN $1000-$3200 A month to drive our brand new cars with ads. www. FreeCarJobs.com STUDENTPAYOUTS. COM Paid Survey Takers needed in Tuscaloosa. 100% FREE to join!
Notices Click on Surveys. PRIVATE PILOT LESSONS Earn your private pilot certi¿cate at the Tuscaloosa Airport. 205-2722231 or email crimso-
Buy or your bike
Crimson White
Don’t forget to pick up a copy of
Arkansas game!
cw.ua.edu @thecrimsonwhite
Follow us on Twitter! @ TheCrimsonWhite
www.cw.ua.edu
The
coverage of the
at
with
Crimson White Classifieds!
using
for all the online
Buy & Sell
sell
Gameday
Visit us
=HPGMBF>
House For Rent
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Today’s Birthday (09/22/11). An older person offers a partnership. Temptations for excess threaten your selfdiscipline, so compromise to stay balanced. Unexpected expenses could arise, and a little preparation goes a long way. In general, this year brings financial stability. Aries (March 21-April 19) -- Today is an 8 -- Write down what you want and the logical steps to get it. Come up with a tagline, and words that clearly express the heart of your concept. Let your brilliance out of the box. Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 7 -- Stick to the rules and routine, especially this morning. Handling old tasks provides clarity, peace of mind and relief. Harmony and happiness grow with great music. Gemini (May 21-June 21) -- Today is an 8 -- Ask your friends for tips on how to save money, and reap a bounty of creative ideas. Review your budget to apply the best ones. An antique plays a part. Cancer (June 22-July 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Even if someone questions your judgment, it doesn’t mean they’re right. Respectfully separate out the gold, and take notes. Make your own choices, and keep your promises. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is a 6 -- If you focus on the limitations, you’ll be limited. Listen through all the white noise for a solution that serves you well. Do your share of the work, and call for reinforcements. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Don’t start until you’re ready
(but don’t keep folks waiting, either). Review the steps to take. Spend time with friends, but keep to the budget. Creative writing flows. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is an 8 Mankl]Zr -- Consider new opportunities where once there were none. Focus on what’s L^im^f[^k ++ma real (or at least on what you believe to be real). Set your old fears down for a while. Mh ieZ\^ rhnk Z]3 Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is an ,-1&0,.. 8 -- New doors appear in unusual places. These doors may very well open by \p\eZllf`k themselves, but you have to show up to trigger the sensor. Ask for what you 9`fZbe'\hf want. Say “yes.” Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is a 7 -- Rediscover your sense of humor ppp'\p'nZ'^]n over the next few days, as you assume more responsibility. Accept well-earned acknowledgment, and enjoy some philLmn]^gm kZm^3 osophical reading or discussion. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a ',.(i^k phk]( 7 -- As Bob Marley would say, “We don’t i^k ]Zr need no more trouble. What we need is love.” Whenever you’re confronted !Fbg' */ phk]l% - kngl" or worried today, focus on what you’re passionate about. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a *The Crimson 9 -- There’s nothing you can’t endure by White places using your mind and your muscle, with these ads in a dash of intuition. Common sense wins good faith. over hardheadedness, so be willing to We are not step aside rather than push. responsible for Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is a fraudulent 7 -- It’s not a good time for romance, advertising.* but be nice anyway. A practical partner guides. Draw three things you want. Dream big. Then play big and go for it.
Visit:
www.cw.ua.edu C&IS Technical Student Assistant 0806067. Provides desktop support, hardware/software installation, multimedia and computer imaging support. Applicants must have experience with hardware/ software installation, configuration and troubleshooting of both Mac and PC platforms. Must be available to work some nights and on Sundays. Job close date: 10/14/ 2011. CC&E Publications Student Assistant - 0806066. Assists with creating and editing templates, publishing works and interactive documents as directed by faculty/staff of the UA Civil, Construction & Engineering Department. Must be proficient with Adobe Pro, and have experience creating forms in Adobe. Must have experience creating and editing templates, creating forms, and with desktop publishing. Job close date: 9/28/2011. Systems Student Assistant - 0805407. Applicants must have ADVANCED computer/software experience; Deep Freeze, Terminal, ARD, DeployStudio, Insight, Symantec Ghost, Registry and Group Policy editing, general image construction, network troubleshooting a plus. Must have minimum 2.25 GPA, and be able to work some late nights, early mornings and occasional weekends. Job close date: 9/23/2011..
For more details and to apply to these and other student assistant job opportunities, go to http://jobs. ua.edu/, then click ‘Student Assistant’.
Scene
the
LIFESTYLES Page 16• Thursday, September 22, 2011 Editor • Stephanie Brumfield lifestyles@cw.ua.edu
Roughing it with the Rec Sometimes, you just need to get out – out of town, ou o outt off your normal routine, out of doors. UA Outdoor Recreation ati tion ti on n staff members lead groups st taf afm embers le ead g rou of students on a variety of trips pss every This e ev erry semester. T hi fall, Outdoor Recreation is offering trips, overnight camping trips, cave rrock ro c climbing, ck cli l mb m ing, canoeing c explorations, e ex plor pl orrattio ion bicycle rides and kayak clinics across North Alabama. Al A lab a a
Did you know…? • All trips are designed for beginners and should be easy for everyone to do. All trips are also catered to the groups who attend them, so participants determine the difficulty and length of many activities. • All equipment is included in the cost of the trip. • You don’t have to be a UA student to
Flicks
to catch this weekend
COBB HOLLYWOOD 16 • The Lion King 3D (G) • Dolphin Tale 3D (PG) • Killer Elite (R) • Moneyball (R) • Drive (R) • I Don’t Know How She Does It (PG-13) • Abduction (PG-13) • Straw Dogs (R) • Contagion (PG-13) • Warrior (PG-13) • Shark Night 3D (PG-13) • Columbiana (PG-13) • Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark (R) • The Help (PG-13)
LIFESTYLES this weekend THURSDAY • Homegrown Alabama Farmers Market: Canterbury Episcopal Chapel, 3 p.m.
attend. For last year’s spring break backpacking trip, one girl brought her dad.
• Many students don’t sign up for trips until the week before, but most trips are capped at 8-16 students, so it’s a good idea to sign up early.
Anvil Cave Exploration What is it? Approximately two-hour cave exploration and two 45-minute canoe trips on flatwater river When: Saturday, Oct. 1 Where: Hartselle, Ala. Cost: $40 for currently enrolled students, $50 for non-members
Explore Little River Canyon What is it? Hiking and rock climbing in what UA Outdoor Recreation manager Lance Haynie calls “the little Grand Canyon of the southeast” When: Fall Break (Oct. 27-30)
CW| Evan Szczepanski
Where: Fort Payne, Ala. Cost: $50 for currently enrolled students, $75 for non-members
What is it? Overnight camping and low-level rock climbing at Palisades Park
•Bear Country presented by Theatre Tuscaloosa: BeanBrown Theatre, 7:30 p.m.
When: Friday and Saturday, Nov. 11-12 Where: Steele, Ala. Cost: $40 for currently enrolled students, $50 for non-members
•Improbable Fictions presents Euripides’ Hecuba: Bama Theatre, 7:30 p.m.
FRIDAY
Discover Horse Pens 40 and Rock Climbing
Outdoor Alabama | Trey McClendon
Mountain Bike Clinic & Ride
Road Bike the Chief Ladiga Trail and Rock Climbimg
•Bear Country presented by Theatre Tuscaloosa: BeanBrown Theatre, 7:30 p.m.
What is it? Bike maintenance clinic and bike ride along trails of local park
What is it? Biking from Piedmont, Ala. to the Georgia state line and climb rocks at Palisades Park When: Fall Break (Oct. 27-30)
When: Saturday, Oct. 15
Where: Piedmont, Ala.
Where: Munny Sokol Park, Northport, Ala.
• Blaine Duncan & The Lookers, Callooh! Callay!, The Bear: Green Bar
Cost: $10 for currently enrolled students, $15 for non-members
Cost: $50 for currently enrolled students, $75 for non-members
•Miss Sorority Row: Bama Theatre, 6 p.m.
Submitted Photo
Submitted Photo
Kayak Clinic
SATURDAY
What is it? Five-week class that teaches the basics of paddling, maneuvering and rolling in kayaks
•Take twhe Power Back: Green Bar, 9 p.m.
When: Tuesdays, Oct. 11-Nov. 8 Where: UA Aquatic Center Cost: $45 for currently enrolled students, $55 for non-members New College
Submitted Photo