01.11.12 edition of the Auburn Plainsman by The Auburn Plainsman

Friends, family remember Libbie Chelsea Harvey Campus Editor

Elizabeth “Libbie” Ainsworth was described as an angel on Earth. “She was always very optimistic, and I don’t think she ever said anything bad about anyone,” said Kathryn Davis, sophomore in interior design and one of Ainsworth’s best friends. “And if she did, she would try to make some sort of positive out of it.” Ainsworth, sophomore in interior design, died Jan. 3 at Columbus Regional Medical Center from complications following a severe, onecar wreck the evening of Jan. 1. Ac-

a seatbelt, was ejectcording to a report from ed from the vehicle. Charles Dysart, Alabama She survived the inistate trooper and pubtial crash and was lic information officer airlifted to Columfor the Alabama Departbus Regional Mediment of Public Safety, Aical Center, where she nsworth was traveling on remained until her U.S. Highway 280 when death two days later. the accident occurred. Ainsworth Cole did not suffer She was riding with Drew serious injuries and was Cole, senior in finance, who treated and released by the East Alawas driving the vehicle. According to reports from the Ope- bama Medical Center in Opelika. According to the Opelika-Auburn lika-Auburn News, Cole was attempting to enter an address into his GPS News, investigations into the possibility of a traffic homicide charge when he lost control of the car. Ainsworth, who was not wearing are still underway. No details have

Memorial info

A memorial service will be held for Ainsworth on Jan. 16 at the Auburn United Methodist Church at 7 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to wear pink. been released, and authorities are unsure when the investigation will be complete. Ainsworth, who was from Coppell, Texas, is remembered by friends as having a larger-than-life personality. “Gosh, she was so proud of Texas and just her big blonde hair, always curled, and big eyes, and she was just a big personality, too,” Davis said.

Davis described Ainsworth as talented in her interior design field. “Her dream was to be like the woman on ‘The Blind Side,’ that interior designer, blonde with her Mercedes and her big sunglasses,” Davis said. “Her dream job would be to design yachts and cruiseline ships, that’s what she wanted to do. She definitely could have.” Ainsworth’s love of interior design was evident in her own decorating choices. “She definitely loved bright colors,”

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The Auburn Plainsman

Thursday, January 12, 2012

A Spirit That Is Not Afraid www.theplainsman.com

Vol. 118, Issue 15, 16 Pages

Old Twitter flies away Miranda Dollarhide Editor@ theplainsman.com

Rebecca Croomes / Photo Editor

From right: SGA President Kirby Turnage, Chief of Staff Abby Basinger, Exec. Vice President Chris Osterlund and Treasurer Curry Stevenson discuss projects for spring semester.

SGA organizes final three months in office Lane Jones Campus Beat Reporter

The Student Government Association is springing back into action this semester. Kirby Turnage, SGA president, said he sees spring semester as the time when a year’s worth of hard work finally pays off. “Our school year runs March to March,” Turnage said. “A lot of what we’ll be focusing on is tying up loose ends in SGA’s preplanned projects. A lot of the projects fall in the cabinet area, everything from High School Leadership to Dance Marathon to Big Event.” Kyla Wilkinson, director of The Big Event, has been planning her project since April. For her, the spring semester is an opportunity to give back to the Auburn community.

“This community puts up with so much during the year,” Wilkinson said. “They put up with our gameday traffic and our fundraising. I’m excited to get a chance to thank them through a day of service.” Along with existing events and initiatives, SGA is working on several new projects for the spring. “We just thought outside the box this year about what SGA can do,” Turnage said. “The bike program that was envisioned and set forth two years ago by last exec. Chris (Osterlund)and his team came together and got all the right resources in line to grant the funds to start the bike program. We’re excited about that developing.” Another development students and faculty can look for-

ward to is the End of the Year Report, a comprehensive review of the organization’s achievements throughout the year headed by Vice President Vanessa Tarpos. “It’s a project to help us with our transition,” Tarpos said. “There’s going to be a report compiled of everything SGA has done over the past year.” Turnage said the spring semester provides a chance to evaluate the progress his administration has made. “Our exec has the desire to report to our constituents and those who elected us what it is that SGA is doing throughout the year,” Turnage said, “like how student fees are being spent, what new organizations have come on campus or what the administra-

» See SGA, A2

Student Government Association Upcoming Events High School Leadership Conference A conference hosted by SGA to teach high school students leadership qualities When Feb 1–2 Where Auburn University Student Center Big Event A student-run volunteer day used to thank the Auburn community for their dedication to the University When March 24 Where Auburn community Dance Marathon A fundraising event benefiting Children’s Miracle Network Hospital When Feb. 4 Where Auburn University

Gigi’s Cupcakes opens location downtown Kristen Oliver Community Editor

One of Auburn’s oldest bakeries is making way for a new one. Gigi’s Cupcakes is expanding from its current location on Ogletree Road and opening a satellite store in downtown Auburn at the former site of Taylor’s Bakery on College Street. “We always wanted to have a presence downtown,” said store owner Jennifer Cooper. Cooper and her husband Patrick currently own the Auburn location, one in Columbus, Ga., the new satellite location opening spring 2012 and another in Columbus which will open summer 2012.

“My husband and I had a plan of what we wanted to do,” Cooper said. “Build the Auburn market, then Montgomery and Columbus. Then we’d come back and do a satellite store in Auburn. But the opportunity presented itself with Taylor’s Bakery going out of business. We have a prime location we couldn’t pass up. That’s why it’s all happening right together.” Cooper said choosing a downtown location was a strategic choice she made for her customers. “We didn’t want it to be our main location due to the parking issue downtown,” she said. “We get a lot of students at our main location, but it

would be a lot more convenient for them downtown, and for the people that come into Auburn that aren’t familiar with the surrounding area.” Many students are looking forward to the convenience of the new location. “When I heard about Gigi’s coming to College Street, I knew it was a good idea,” said Melisa Hardie, senior in exercise science. “My parents live out by the old location and it’s convenient for them, but the new one will be so much better for students.” Cooper said the downtown location will function differently than the primary store.

“The downtown location is a satellite location,” she said, “so we will be baking our cupcakes, making our frosting every morning at our main location, and then we will have a van that will be wrapped with Gigi’s all over it that will transport to the downtown location.” Cooper also said the van will allow them to do much larger catering events. She said they are also looking into a cupcake delivery option in the future. Cooper also said the satellite location will allow for more seating.

» See Gigi’s, A2

When I started high school in 2004, the popular social media outlet was Xanga. For the first time on the Internet, you got to be as self-absorbed as you like, and people embraced it. It was awesome. Then Xanga phased out, and Myspace found it’s place. It was popular for a couple of years, but it lacked something it’s follow-up had. Myspace was on its final leg when Facebook found its stride. What made Facebook special was its ability to easily post photos. “Creeping” became a cool thing, and privacy no longer existed. Then in 2008, I started hearing about this thing called Twitter. I remember thinking how stupid it sounded to want to know people’s every move, but little did I know what it would become. Today, Twitter is everything. It, along with the smart phone, has totally changed how we receive our news. It dictates when you should get it, how you should get it and how many people you want to let know about it. In the past, The Plainsman has ignored and underestimated the power of Twitter, but no more. The force is strong with us now, but something threatens to bring us back to the dark side: our old Twitter account. Before I worked at the Plainsman, the staffers had created a twitter account that many of you may be following, auburnplainsman. You may have been confused thinking auburnplainsman was right, because you receive tweets from it when we posted to the website, but it’s not. It’s linked to the website via a RSS feed, but you won’t receive our morning weather reports, fun things happening on campus or links to our blogs and videos. To receive these extras, plus all of our regular content, the correct Twitter to follow is TheAuPlainsman. You’ll know you’re at the right Twitter by our signature Plainsman “P” that serves as our profile picture. In an effort to streamline all of our online activity, we will get rid of the old Twitter soon. Don’t get left out o f the nest. Join the new twitter at www. twitter.com/theauplainsman. Sports B2

Chizik lures coordinator from professional ranks Brian VanGorder, formerly of the Atlanta Falcons, was introduced as Auburn’s defensive coordinator Wednesday.

Recycled paper

Campus A2

The Auburn Plainsman

DUI Arrests in the City of Auburn Jan. 6 – Jan. 10, 2012 ■ Taylor D. Purcell, 21, of Brunswick, Ga. South Cary Drive at Sanders Street Jan. 10, 3:23 a.m. ■ Jason A. Dabbs 40, of Montgomery South College Street at East University Drive Jan. 9, 11:57 p.m. ■ Katlin N. Higgins, 22, of Gadsden, Ala. Halal Court at North Gay Street Jan. 9, 11:42 p.m. ■ Anthony K. Leverett, 37, of Lafayette, Ala. Shug Jordan Parkway at Highway 14 West Jan. 9, 1:41 a.m. ■ Holland E. Powers, 18, of Opelika West Longleaf Drive Jan. 7, 1:33 a.m.

Crime Reports for Jan. 5 – Jan. 9, 2012 Jan. 9 — Dean Road Theft of property reported. Three ribeye steaks Jan. 7 — East Magnolia Avenue Theft of property reported. One tablet computer, one leather case and two Xbox games Jan. 8 — Old Mill Road Breaking and entering of a vehicle reported. One auto CD player, one portable game system and $700 reported stolen Jan. 5 — Loachapoka Highway Burglary of residence reported. 600 pounds of pecans and one glass window

■ William T. Walker, 20, of Opelika South College Street Jan. 7, 3:48 a.m. ■ Jamie E. Dowdell, 48, of Loachapoka East Glenn Avenue at North Dean Road Jan. 7, 10:13 p.m. ■ Holland E. Powers, 18, of Opelika West Longleaf Drive Jan. 7, 1:33 a.m. ■ Benjamin W. Bradley, 26, of Birmingham West Magnolia Avenue at Thomas Street Jan. 6, 3: 11 a.m. ■ Brian T. Miller, 20, of Opelika West Glenn Avenue Jan. 6, 1:50 a.m.

Jan. 5 — Alberta Street Theft of property reported. One chainsaw Jan. 7 — South Dean Road Theft of property reported. One bridal set of platinum rings, five 1/8K loose diamonds and one 14K gold female band — Reports provided by Auburn Department of Public Safety

Thursday, January 12, 2012

SGA

» From A1 tion did with dining.” Tarpos said one of the biggest things students have to look forward to this spring are the improvements to on-campus dining. “With a lot of our initiatives, like the things Kirby has been working on with dining, students have seen positive changes like extended hours, surveys, and now we have the Chick-fil-A breakfast coming,” she said. “By no means are we done with our improvements to dining. We’re looking forward to partnering with Chartwells and auxiliary services to figure out what we can do to make this a dining program that we’re proud of and not just content with.” The new semester also brings opportunities for involvement in SGA on campus. Turnage said there are plenty of ways to get plugged in this semester, from volunteer opportunities to community outreach to cabinet applications. “The first thing is vote,” Tarpos said. “That is the main way for students to get involved. Elections are going to be

around the first week of February, so that’s the main way for students to take an active role in student government. Pay attention to the platforms, go to debates and check out the candidates coming out for the next year.” Tarpos said her primary focus this spring is making sure she accomplishes all she set out to do when she was elect-

Gigi’s

» From A1 “At our main location in Auburn we don’t have much seating,” she said. “With the downtown location we’ll be able to seat 15–20 people easily because we’re not going to have an oven and mixer in the back of the store.”

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Thursday, January 12, 2012

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The Auburn Plainsman

Campus celebrates life, legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Lane Jones Assistant Campus Editor

Auburn University is working to make Dr. King’s dream a reality. Beginning Jan. 16, the University is hosting a weeklong series of events and programs celebrating the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. “King Week is a weeklong celebration of the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. here on campus,” said Shakeer Abdullah, director of the Multicultural Center. “This is going to be its fifth year happening.” The Multicultural Center and Access and Community Initiatives, two departments within the Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs, collaborated with the National Forum for Black Public Administration to co-sponsor King Week. “We are hosting a scholarship breakfast on the morning of Jan. 16,” said Tim Aylsworth, director of sales and marketing at the Auburn Hotel and Conference Center. “The event itself is being put on by the NFBPA’s East Alabama chapter.”

The Hotel and Conference Center will host an interfaith celebration Thursday followed by a conference Friday. Other programs include a Lunch and Learn series and a discussion of King’s impact and relevance at the Multicultural Center. Paulette Dilworth, assistant vice president for ACI, organizes the diversity outreach component. “Our theme is ‘The Time Is Always Right To Do What’s Right,’” Dilworth said. “This particular theme was selected based on the fact that there are a lot of things going on not only in our community, but around the world. People typically think these things aren’t affecting them. “The idea is to get people motivated and involved to change the things that need to be changed and not wait for another time to do it.” As part of the tribute, Monday will be a day of service. Abdullah said he hopes this event will redefine this holiday for Auburn students. “The idea is we want to encourage students to get out

and serve and not just use the holiday as a day to sleep in or stay at home,” Abdullah said. “It’s a culture shift that will take place over time once people realize that it’s more than just a day off.” The focus of events such as the day of service is to encourage involvement that honors King’s legacy. “Sometimes people look at the work Dr. King was doing as primarily about civil rights for African-Americans, but his work just before he was assassinated had began to advance towards making the situation with people living in poverty a priority,” Dilworth said. “I think with the U.S. at this moment, that’s one of the persistent issues that we should be concerned with.” Monday ’s scholarship breakfast will feature Gilbert Rochon, president of Tuskegee University. “It’s an opportunity for folks to get out and learn about the changes and things that are taking place,” Abdullah said. “How Dr. King’s legacy has impacted the growth of that university and how that relates to

Auburn.” Dilworth said one of the goals of her office is to bridge connections between Auburn University and the surrounding community. “If you notice at the bottom of the poster, we always make sure to put ‘All are welcome,’” Dilworth said. “Anyone who is interested in learning more about Dr. King and his work and basically understanding how that work has implications for some of the more contemporary issues we’re dealing with.” Abdullah said the tribute will not only cause people to pay attention to the remnants of racism and discrimination in the community, but move them to action. “Sometimes people think the era is far gone, but the impact is far-reaching,” Abdullah said. “I think what happens inadvertently is that some of the racist and discriminatory practices are passed down through generations. “If you have a sense of history, it can help you understand how we can deal with things now.”

fifth annual Day of Service Monday, Jan. 16

WHO:

Anyone who wishes to participate, including students, faculty, staff and community

WHAT:

A day devoted to volunteer community service around Auburn

WHERE:

A list of locations looking for volunteers is still being compiled and should be released by the end of this week. Check out theplainsman.com for updates.

Au View Students lined up as Chick-fil-A reopened Monday in the Student Center with a brand new menu. The restaurant now serves breakfast and will soon serve milk shakes and ice cream. Rebecca Croomes / Photo Editor

Rebecca Croomes / Photo Editor

Campus A4

The Auburn Plainsman

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Voter guide gets a makeover Graphic design students submit art for cover Becky Hardy Associate Campus Editor

Student art will soon be displayed across the state. Graphic design students at Auburn were asked to submit designs for the cover of Alabama’s voter guide. Secretary of State Beth Chapman chose the winning design for the cover. The winner, Kyle Pauley, sophomore in graphic design, said this is not the first time his graphic arts professor, Ross Heck, has worked with the government. “They have worked with him in the past and with other GDES students to design posters,” Pauley said, “so they knew we would deliver unique and creative designs for them.” The secretary of state has worked with Auburn students for 15 years. “Many of the projects were for poster designs to encourage specific age groups to register to vote,” Heck said. “This year’s request was for the voter guide cover design.” Heck’s class was on a tight schedule. “I worked with the students on a two-week deadline for completion of their individual designs,” Heck said. With limited time to submit work, working outside of class was necessary. “A lot of the computer editing and printing took place in the classroom,” Pauley said, “but we also had to work out-

side of the classroom with researching the voter registration subject and sketching our ideas.” Pauley said he didn’t allow politics to enter his design process. “I don’t get to watch the news as much as I would like, but I definitely understand how important politics are,” Pauley said. “As far as the competition goes, I was definitely more focused on my design the most.” Emily Brett, sophomore in graphic design, came up with her cover design through various thumbnail sketches. “I knew I wanted to keep my design fairly simple, so I utilized basic shapes and readable fonts,” Brett said. “I limited my design to three colors as well. I incorporated the shape of the state along with patriotic symbols.” Pauley said he was surprised his design was chosen. “I thought anyone in our class could have won it, and I was very honored to be selected,” Pauley said. “It makes me feel special knowing that the secretary of state and her staff liked and felt comfortable enough with my design that they put it on their voter guide that gets sent all over the state. It’s a great opportunity, and I am happy they chose my design.” Brett acknowledged her classmates’ creativity. “Everyone came up with a completely different design, and it was interesting to see how each one of us interpreted the challenge presented differently,” Brett said. Constructive criticism was also part of in-class support. “Feedback and collaboration of the entire class is

“

The client had approximately 30 designs to choose from at the end of the project, and I think they were pleased with the end product.” —Ross Heck Graphic Design Professor

present when you look at the work,” Brett said. Heck praised his students for their hard work. “I feel the students did a wonderful job of time management, concept development on a difficult topic, provided sound design solutions for their client,” Heck said. “And lastly, they did a great job in their final presentations to the client.” Along with this competition, Pauley has entered some of his work in other exhibitions. “I have entered some of my early drawings and photos in the art department’s student exhibition that was held in Biggin Hall,” Pauley said. “Many of the art majors submitted their works and had to go through a tough review process before we could get in.” The students also had the option to create and submit more than one design. “The client had approximately 30 designs to choose from at the end of the project, and I think they were pleased with the end product,” Heck said.

to Own r e w The Po your e r u t u F save more

SGA breaks down SAP budget Chelsea Harvey Campus Editor

Every semester, each student pays $28.75 to fill SGA’s Student Activity Project budget. However, the process of distributing the funds is more complicated than a simple charge to the bursar account. The budget is divided among nine campus organizations, known as Student Activity Projects: Auburn Circle, Black Student Union, Glomerata, Eagle Eye, International Student Organization, WEGL, IMPACT, University Program Council and SGA itself. According to Vanessa Tarpos, SGA vice president, SAPs are different than other campus organizations. “I would say that the size would have a big part of that,“ Tarpos said. “You know, groups like UPC have hundreds of members. And then there’s the smaller organizations, like a men’s lacrosse club that gets together every week, and it’s 10 guys and they need some equipment and that’s all they really need for the whole year.” Alternative Student Breaks was recently approved by the Senate as a new SAP and will go through the formal process of submitting a budget next fall. “I don’t want to necessarily say that size is the only definition,” Tarpos said. “It’s a lot of what they do for the school and what they bring to the entire campus. “I think the number of students that a group like UPC or IMPACT or Alternative Stu-

Budget breakdown Each week campus will break down a different organization included in the student activity project. dent Breaks—these organizations reach out to the entire campus and all students have access to them.” Tarpos said SGA has a separate budget for regular student organizations. However, the SAP budget is significantly larger. At the beginning of every fall, the SAPs must submit requests for funds from the budget. “It comes through our Senate, and that’s how they get the funding. And so the whole funding process is run through the Senate,” said Curry Stevenson, SGA treasurer. According to Stevenson, the SAPs must submit a form by June 1 explaining how they used their funding from the previous year and what funds they are requesting for the upcoming year. “Basically, this summer, as treasurer, they’ll turn these sheets in to me electronically, and I go through and check,” Stevenson said. “I send them out a sheet with all the formulas. I go through the formulas and check again and verify with our records that their totals for what they received the previous year carry over.” There are certain stipulations associated with the request for funds. SAPs are not permitted to request more than a 20 percent increase in funding for any individual line

2011–12 Student Activity Project Budget Allocation University Program Council: Student Government Association: $303,432.72 Glomerata: $221,241.24

Eagle Eye: $60,241 Black Student Union: $51,682.15 IMPACT: $40,488.33 International Student Organization: $34,970.89

WEGL: $110,939

Auburn Circle: $27,359

$771,122.03

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item in their budget. All line items must be explained. Any money left over in an SAP’s budget is returned to the general pool of funds unless the organization can present an acceptable argument for keeping it. After the forms are examined by Stevenson, they are turned over to the SGA’s budget and finance committee for a more in-depth look. The SAPs will then have a chance to present their case to the SGA Senate at the beginning of the fall semester. “The way it’s been done this year is each SAP comes in with 10 minutes to present their budget,” Stevenson said. “They’ll come in, and they have 10 minutes to present their project to the senate, to present their budget. And the (budget and finance) committee will have had these budgets ahead of them for up to a month at a time.” Stevenson said as treasurer she is also required to present the SGA’s budget to the SGA Senate for final approval. The Senate has the power to decide whether to accept the SAPs’ requests or to make changes. Afterward, the budget and finance committee prepares a final budget that is voted on by the Senate. According to Tarpos, SGA has tried to redefine the process by which an organization can become, and remain, a SAP. “We want to have groups that are going to be sustainable for a number of years at the school,” Tarpos said.

Community

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Thursday, January 12, 2012

Community

Local business encourages artistic expression Alison McFerrin COMMUNITY BEAT REPORTER

The first Friday night of every month the arts take center stage at The Gnu’s Room, where aspiring writers, musicians, poets and other artists can show their stuff at Expressions Cafe. “We finally are starting to grow an audience a little bit,” said Tina Tatum, Gnu’s Room owner and manager. “There needs to be a place where people can try out material and get some feedback.” January’s open mic night featured five artists, and Tatum said that’s about the average. “There have been times when nobody comes and I’ve thought, ‘Well, maybe we should just give this up,’ but I just kept doing it, and now we’re starting to get some regulars that come,” Tatum said.

REBECCA CROOMES / PHOTO EDITOR

Emily Schott strums a tune on her guitar during Expressions Cafe at The Gnu’s Room Friday night. The monthly open-mic event features performances by writers, musicians and artists.

One of those regulars is Auburn resident Jo Heath, who prepares a piece of flash fic-

tion—1,000 words or less— each month. “The first time I read, I was

absolutely a bundle of nerves,” Heath said. “You can read what you’ve written, whether

it’s a song or a story, and everyone is at the very least polite, and lots of times they actually express the fact that they enjoy it. It’s a wonderful place to try out.” Another regular performer was Emily Schott, who played both original and covers on guitar. Schott praised the “vibe” of the event. “I like how it’s small and intimate,” said Schott, who was in front of the Gnu’s Room audience for the fourth time. “It’s always a good audience, and I just like getting my stuff out there.” Tatum said Expressions Cafe has been going on at The Gnu’s Room for the last four years. The monthly event is not only for musicians and writers. People can read or act out poetry. It is also a platform for

people to show artistic creations and explain to fellow artists their personal creative process. “This is an outlet for people to try out their stuff, to see if people like it or not,” Heath said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for a lot of people.” James Masters, freshman in horticulture, was at The Gnu’s Room for the second time to play the baritone ukulele he received as a Christmas gift. “I like how it’s local,” Masters said. “People here come pretty often. I like how it’s really comfortable.” Masters said he will be coming back to perform again. “It’s really interesting to hear people’s stories,” he said. “Everyone has something unique to say.” The next Expressions Cafe will be Feb. 3 at 7 p.m. Admission is free.

City seeks voters to approve funding allocations Alison McFerrin COMMUNITY BEAT REPORTER

If passed Jan. 24, the Special Five Mill Tax Referendum will fund a new senior center, additions to Frank Brown Recreation Center and the creation of additional parking spaces in downtown Auburn. “One thing that we always stress is, it has nothing to do with a new tax,” said David Dorton, director of public affairs. “It’s an existing tax that collects funds that have to be used in approved ways.” The fund was authorized in 1920 as an amendment to the Alabama Constitution and has been in place in Auburn since 1948. The city may use the funds to repay bonds issued for specific projects. Past projects have included the Soccer Complex, Town

Creek Park and Yarbrough Tennis Center. “It’s basically a portion of the property tax, and money accumulates in the fund until it’s used,” Dorton said. The last referendum in 2009 allowed for street resurfacing and restriping, the North Donahue Bridge replacement project, major intersection improvements at Donahue Drive and Magnolia Avenue, as well as renovations to the Frank Brown Recreation Center. The recreation center is also a central focus of the 2012 referendum. “It’s things that we’ve needed to be able to serve the citizens and provide the programs they’ve requested,” said Becky Richardson, director of parks and recreation.

The addition to the center will include new meeting spaces and classrooms, additional fitness space and a racquetball court. Richardson said the recreation center had 30,000 visits from the community last year, and the senior center will also provide services to a growing community. “The numbers signing up for our senior programs have been consistently growing over the past few years, and our other senior programs … are growing as more and more people move here to retire,” Richardson said. The senior center will boast a multipurpose room, a classroom and office space, as well as an Internet cafe. “Seniors can come, and they can bring their laptop if

Zoning ordinance limits students’ housing options Alison McFerrin COMMUNITY BEAT REPORTER

As the time approaches to renew leases for the coming school year, students have to realize that more than just personal preference is a factor in deciding where to live. Home sweet home is also determined by city zoning ordinance. The ordinance reads that “the neighborhood conservation district is intended to preserve the character of existing neighborhoods and developments under construction.” According to the ordinance, in areas zoned for single families, no more than two unrelated people can live in the same home. “The major areas where we have problems are close to campus, right where the zones change,” said Katie Robison, zoning enforcement officer. One area is along College Street, near the Davis Arboretum just south of campus. Robison said most cities have similar ordinances, some of which are much more stringent than Auburn’s. “A few northern university towns, if you have a rental property, you have to register that property and who’s living there with the city,” Robison said. “We don’t go through all that process.” One problem caused by too many unrelated people living in a single-family area is having too many cars parked at one house.

Another common problem is excessive noise. “Those are the ones that tend to probably be the most problematic,” said Mayor Bill Ham. “There’s certainly nothing wrong with students that are off at college playing music and having a good time, but it may contradict with exactly the way the rest of the neighborhood … lives their lives.” Robison said the number of violations has decreased in the past few years. Ham said while he used to receive complaint calls about possible violations on a weekly basis, he now rarely does, which he attributes to strict enforcement of the law. “All cases have to go to court if it turns out that there’s a violation, and all of the residents that are in the home are required to come to court,” Robison said. “That’s time away from work or class.” People who suspect a violation must fill out a complaint form, and then Robison monitors the home in question for 10 days. If Robison believes there is a violation, “then I file for a search warrant with the judge … then I go out with the police officer and actually enter the property and see who’s living there,” Robinson said. Ham said the primary need for such an ordinance stems mainly from the difference in the lifestyles between students and non-students. “Students’ lifestyles (vary)

“

Students lifestyles (vary) from those in typical single family neighborhoods as far as the hours that they come and go and hours of the students’ activities.” —Bill Ham MAYOR

from those in typical single family neighborhoods as far as the hours that they come and go and hours of the students’ activities,” Ham said. To avoid the hassle of possibly having to switch dwellings because of a violation against the ordinance, Robison suggested double-checking the zoning laws of a potential home before officially signing a lease. “I would say that most of the homeowners that rent know the regulations,” Robinson said. “We try to put things out there and take a proactive approach. “Of course, the realtors all know the area where single family houses are, and if they know that something is zoned single family … they are required to tell (clients).”

they wanted to,” Richardson said. “In the mornings they can sit and visit and have coffee, and it could be kind of a social area. We don’t really have a space for that right now.” The referendum’s other primary project would be making improvments to downtown parking. Dorton said the city anticipates being able to provide about 50 additional parking spaces to the 500 currently available. The old Auburn Bank drivethru will be demolished, and that space will become a parking lot. Other aspects of the project will include repaving and landscaping the west parking lot behind Toomer’s Drugstore, improving pedestrian access to the municipal park-

ing deck with enhanced lighting, signage and security features and implementing a modern parking meter system. “These are the projects that we think folks have told us that they’re interested in, so now we let them tell us for sure in the vote,” Dorton said. The deadline to register to vote is Jan. 13. All voters with an Auburn address may go to City Hall to fill out the required paperwork. “It’s typically a pretty low turnout kind of vote,” Dorton said. If passed, Dorton said the Frank Brown renovations and new senior center would be completed in early 2013. All additional parking improvements would take approximately two years to complete.

Frank Brown Recreation Center Addition $1.3 million New Senior Center $1.95 million Design and Construction of New Lot $300,000 Repave West Parking Lot $50,000 West Parking Lot Landscaping/Lighting $100,000 Enhance Pedestrian Access $100,000 Implement New Parking Meters $200,000 TOTAL:

$4 million

Haley Penney brings affordable merchandise to Auburn Kristen Oliver COMMUNITY EDITOR

When Haley Penney graduated from Auburn in 1999 with a degree in human development and family studies, she didn’t pursue a career in that field. “I took some time to try and figure out what I wanted to do,” Penney said. She worked at a gift shop downtown for a few years before deciding to open her own store. “I just wanted to do my own thing with clothing instead of gifts,” she said. In 2006, Penney opened her first store, Simply Charming. “I remember shopping at Simply Charming my freshman year,” said Liz Howerton, senior in animal sciences. “It was really cute, with higherend clothes than many boutiques now.” Penney said when she opened the store there was a need for the merchandise in the community. “I just loved clothing,” she said. “When I was a student here and from 1999–2002, there really wasn’t a selection. There was nothing to choose from. When I opened Simply Charming it was for people to be able to find collection type

CHRISTEN HARNED / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

The Pink Room Boutique in downtown Auburn. dresses to wear not only everyday and to wear out, but to wear to cocktails and formals.” In February 2011, Penney opened a new store downtown. “When our lease ran out (at Simply Charming), we were supposed to move immediately, but our plans fell through,” Penney said. “We had to wait like five and a half to six months to open up here.” Her new store is The Pink Room, and the location isn’t the only thing that differs from Simply Charming. “With the new store and the new location I wanted to lower the price point,” she said. “I didn’t want people to assume it was higher-end merchandise. With Simply Charming, that was the reputation it had. The economy was much better then, so we changed the name, lowered the price point and got a different type of merchandise in.” Penney said she feels the

changes were welcomed by the Auburn community. “I love The Pink Room,” Howerton said. “It’s by far my favorite store downtown. I had no idea Simply Charming had become The Pink Room. It feels like a completely different store.” Penney said business in a college town has ups and downs, but it’s been great at the new store. “It’s been wonderful,” she said. “When the students leave obviously it slows down, so I’m glad everyone is back. December was slow, but now that everyone’s back they’re slowly trickling in. And the summer actually wasn’t bad.” Penney said while there are more boutiques downtown than when she opened Simply Charming, it hasn’t been bad for business. “Obviously now there are a lot of boutiques here, but that’s fine,” she said. “I think we complement each other well.”

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Community

Local business encourages artistic expression Alison McFerrin COMMUNITY BEAT REPORTER

REBECCA CROOMES / PHOTO EDITOR

Emily Schott strums a tune on her guitar during Expressions Cafe at The Gnu’s Room Friday night. The monthly open-mic event features performances by writers, musicians and artists.

One of those regulars is Auburn resident Jo Heath, who prepares a piece of flash fic-

tion—1,000 words or less— each month. “The first time I read, I was

absolutely a bundle of nerves,” Heath said. “You can read what you’ve written, whether

City seeks voters to approve funding allocations Alison McFerrin COMMUNITY BEAT REPORTER

Zoning ordinance limits students’ housing options Alison McFerrin COMMUNITY BEAT REPORTER

“

Students lifestyles (vary) from those in typical single family neighborhoods as far as the hours that they come and go and hours of the students’ activities.” —Bill Ham MAYOR

$4 million

Haley Penney brings affordable merchandise to Auburn Kristen Oliver COMMUNITY EDITOR

CHRISTEN HARNED / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

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Roommate needed. 3 bedroom, 3-1/2 bath condo at Donahue Crossings. Fully furnished, great back yard. Each bedroom has private bath. Currently occupied by 2 male students, only one room is available. Each tenant pays $425 monthly rent and 1/3 of utilities. On Tiger Transit line. Call 615957-5947. Email usiunique@aol. com Three-Room Country Cottage in City Limits Three-room country cottage. One bedroom,one bath. Single person or married couples only. No children, no pets. $600. Call 334 821-3660.

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This time last year, Auburn had won a game that would change the face of the program forever. This year, the Tigers are in a transition stage. Sophomore running back Michael Dyer followed Gus Malzahn to Arkansas State, and two new coordinators will be on the sideline in 2012. How did we get here?

Coleman McDowell sports@ theplainsman.com

Life in the SEC is tough. But this past season, life in the SEC Western Division was the toughest of them all. Featuring an eight-win Auburn team, an Arkansas team that was a victory over LSU away from crashing the BCS party and the two participants in the BCS National Championship game, this division was one of the toughest in recent memory. Even the team who represented the division in the SEC Championship didn’t come out victorious in the National Championship; that’s how intense this division is. So what does this mean for Auburn in 2012? While 2012 was supposed to be the year Auburn would be fully rebuilt from depleted recruiting classes preceding Gene Chizik’s arrival, that assesment has seemingly been pushed back to 2013. At last count, eight players who signed in Gene Chizik’s first full signing class in 2010 are gone from the group that was ranked fourth nationally after signing day. Eight players that would be juniors or redshirt sophomores are gone, which forced many true freshman into action this past season. We saw many of those true freshman and redshirt freshmen grow and improve from the Utah State season opener to the Chick-fil-A Bowl at the end of the year. That experience should pay off in 2012 and even more in 2013. Much like last off-season, this year’s spring and summer practices will likely be dominated by the quarterback situation. Sophomore Kiehl Frazier will be the most talented quarterback on the roster, but has the least experience. Senior Barrett Trotter showed flashes in the bowl game of what many people expected to see throughout the entire season, but he was benched halfway through the season for a reason. Junior Clint Moseley started the final six games of the season, but was injured in the bowl game. True freshman Zeke Pike has enrolled at Auburn to get a jump on summer practice, but as we saw with Frazier this past season, it’s rare for a true freshman to make an impact in the SEC no matter how talented he is. The rest of the offense received big boosts this past week to offset one

JAN ‘11

» See 2012, B2

NOV ‘11

10th

28th

Auburn University defeats the Oregon Ducks 22–19 to claim the University’s second national championship and its first since 1957.

“Al from Dadeville” calls into the Paul Finebaum show and tells the world of his tree poisoning after the 2010 Iron Bowl. The Toomer’s Oaks prognosis from many experts is not encouraging.

14th Star juniors Cameron Newton, Nick Fairley and Darvin Adams forgo their senior season and enter the NFL Draft.

FEB ‘11

28th

2nd National Signing Day comes and goes with many good surprises for the Tigers. Gabe Wright, Jeremaine Whitehead and Erique Florence all sign with Auburn after considering a variety of SEC schools. They boost Auburn to the second-ranked recruiting class in the nation. Auburn does receive some bad news when Brent Callolway, a five-star

running back who committed to Alabama early in the season, switched to Auburn days before the National Championship game, only to ultimately sign with Alabama on National Signing Day.

MARCH ‘11

2nd Auburn hires former player Mike Pelton to replace another former player, Tracy Rocker, as the defensive line coach for 2011. Auburn survived Texas pursuing offensive line coach Jeff Grimes, while Vanderbilt and Maryland attempted to lure Gus Malzahn into a head coaching position. Chizik’s original staff remains intact—with the exception of Rocker—for the third consecutive season. Stanley McClover, Troy Reddick, Chaz Ramsey and Raven Gray go on national television and claim to have received illegal benefits during their playing days at Auburn. The University declined to comment. None of the claims were substantiated by evidence, and while no penatlties were levied, it was bad publicity for Auburn.

MAY ‘11

SEP ‘11

19th Kiehl Frazier enrolls for his first semester and makes the competition for Auburn’s starting quarterback a three-headed battle with junior Barrett Trotter and sophomore Clint Moseley.

OCT ‘11

3rd

17th

As winner of the quarterback competition, Barrett Trotter leads the offense to 42 points in the season opener against Utah State. After a memorable onside kick by Chandler Brooks, Auburn scores two touchdowns in two minutes to come back from being down by 10 late in the fourth quarter.

Auburn travels to Clemson and loses for the first time since November 2009.

1st

15th

22nd

Auburn defeats a top10 ranked and Marcus Lattimore-powered South Carolina team on the road. The signature win keeps the Tigers above .500 for the month of October.

Seven total quarterbacks are used by both teams as Auburn defeats Florida 17–6. Trotter is benched in favor of Moseley at the beginning of the second half, and Moseley leads Auburn to 10 fourth quarter points to defeat the Gators.

In Moseley’s first start at quarterback, the offense manages only 10 points, losing on the road 45– 10 to the eventual SEC champion LSU Tigers. The loss proves that experience means everything in the SEC.

19th Auburn honors legend Pat Sullivan, coach of Samford Bulldogs, as he takes the field as a part of pregame homecoming festivities. The Tigers win 35–16, but the gritty Bulldogs keep it close, trailing by only five heading into the fourth quarter.

26th Auburn loses the Iron Bowl 42–14 without recording an offensive touchdown.

DEC ‘11

8th After three of the worst statistical defensive outputs in Auburn history, defensive coordinator Ted Roof leaves his position at Auburn for the same at Central Florida, reuniting with former boss George O’Leary.

13th

PATRICK TIGHE

Auburn’s leading rusher and 2010 BCS National Championship game MVP Michael Dyer is “temporarily removed from the team” following a violation of team rules.

Sports Beat reporter

» See Senior bowl, B2

Gene Chizik removes Eric Smith from the team after a “violation of team rules.” Smith was arrested and suspended in 2009, but played a vital role in the recordsetting offense in 2010.

30th

Mosley, Harris get senior invite Auburn University football players Brandon Mosley and Josh Harris have been selected to compete in the Jan. 28 Senior Bowl. Played annually in Mobile, Ala., the Senior Bowl is open to players showing exceptional talent and those who have promising outlooks for their NFL careers. “We’re excited to have both Brandon and Josh here representing Auburn later this month in the Senior Bowl,” said Steve Hale, Senior Bowl president and CEO. “They have both had great careers and are considered to be top prospects at their respective positions.” Offensive tackle Mosley, originally from Jefferson, Ga., was named All-State for Jefferson High School. Mosley went on to play at Coffeyville Community College in Kansas where he caught the eye of the Auburn coaching staff.

Sports

14th After another offseason when new rumors of Malzahn’s departure appear daily, Malzahn is introduced as coach of the Arkansas State Red Wolves.

18th Prized five-star recruit T.J. Yeldon switches his commitment from Auburn to Alabama on the last day before a recruiting dead period begins. Yeldon was poised to take over a share of the running back duties as Dyer’s status for 2012 was in limbo.

31st Malzahn leaves on a high note in his final game as offensive coordinator, leading the offense to a 43–24 victory over Virginia. Trotter finishes what he started in September by replacing Moseley after an early ankle injury, giving Auburn the jump-start they need offensively.

JAN ‘12

5th

8th

9th

Michael Dyer is granted a conditional release from Auburn University. Dyer wasfifth on Auburn’s all-time rushing list.

Junior tight end Philip Lutzenkirchen tweets, “It’s official world, I’m staying for SR year. War eagle!”

Gene Chizik pries defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder away from the Atlanta Falcons and introduces him as Auburn’s new defensive coordinator. VanGorder is known as a fiery defensive coach reminiscent of former Auburn defensive coordinator Will Muschamp.

Sports B2

The Auburn Plainsman

2012

» From B1 major detraction: running back Michael Dyer transferred to Arkansas State, but juniors Onterio McCalebb, Philip Lutzenkirchen and Emory Blake all decided to return for their senior season at Auburn. The offensive line will like-

senior bowl » From B1

Mosley then moved to Auburn and became a key figure in the 2010 National Championship run, starting in 11 of the season’s 14 games. “I came in playing offensive tackle for the first time ever two years ago,” Mosely said. “Coach Grimes, coach Malzahn and coach Chizik did an awesome job in preparing me and teaching me what I needed to know to get to the next

ly be more talented than it was in 2011, but will be younger. Greg Robinson and Christian Westerman both competed for playing time in the summer, but ultimately redshirted. They are both too talented to keep on the sidelines. Reese Dismukes returns as the anchor to the offensive line as a sophomore with 13 games

of experience. Starting guard and redshirt sophomore Chad Slade could be bumped outside to right tackle to replace A.J. Greene, opening up the left guard position for Westerman. That move would create a young, talented offensive line core for the next three years to compete in football’s toughest division.

level.” Mosley holds one season memory close to his heart. “Beating Georgia was a great memory,” Mosley said. “I grew up in Dawg country and grew up a fan, and I converted last year. Other than the BCS national title, it was great to be able to win with all the guys and build relationships with them.” During Harris’ time at Auburn, he fought for playing time as a walk-on deep snapper and was rewarded with a

scholarship in August 2010. Harris was involved in some historic plays, including handling the game-winning snap for the game-winning field goal by Wes Byrum in the 2010 BCS National Championship. “It’s just really a blessing,” Harris said. “My time at Auburn was incredible. As a walkon I just never thought I’d end up in this position to now be able to try to fulfill a childhood dream of mine and play in the NFL and this will be a great opportunity to get that exposure.”

Tigers travel to take on Vandy Coleman McDowell Sports Editor

The Auburn women’s basketball team struggled to overcome its youth as SEC play began in 2012. The Tigers (9–7, 1–2) went to Tuscaloosa and defeated Alabama 65–55, but that win was sandwiched between two losses by an average of 23.5 points to Tennessee and Georgia. Auburn travels to Nashville to play No. 25 Vanderbilt Thursday at 8 p.m. The Commodores (13–2, 1–1) have lost two contests this season, and coach Fortner knows the defense must step up to the challenge. “They’re a very high percentage shooting team,” Fortner said. “You won’t see them take a lot of bad shots on the floor. They’re usually a very good three-point shooting team, and they run solid of-

fense.” Fortner has been preparing the Tigers for Vanderbilt’s efficient offense. The Commodores are led by Christina Foggie, who averages more than 17 points per game and is shooting 50 percent from three-point range, and they also have four starters averging double-digit scoring. “It’s always a challenge defending Vanderbilt because they run a really good offense,” Fortner said. “This year, they seem to run more on ball screens and pounding it inside to spread you out. You’ve got to be ready to get outside to shooters, and you can’t be too far from those three-point shooters.” Auburn has competed against two top 10 teams so far this season. The Tigers were down by one point on the road against Duke in the third game

of the season, but were outscored 41–19 in the second half, losing by 23. The Tennessee Volunteers traveled to Auburn on New Year’s Day, and the Tigers were again outscored in the second half—this time 42–23—to lose by 21. Fortner said the key to finishing games is for everyone to trust their teammates and not try to do it alone. “When you play a team tough for 30 minutes and get tired, you’ve got to stay strong,” Fortner said. “When you get down, you’ve got to be able to fight back and believe in your teammates. And sometimes, I think that’s where youth rears its head. Because when you’re young, you try and do it all by yourself, but when you’re a seasoned team, you know it takes the team to do it. So right now, we’re trying to learn that lesson a little better.”

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Contributed

Brian VanGorder brings NFL and head coaching experience to Auburn’s defensive coordinator position.

Chizik lures coordinator from professional ranks Coleman McDowell Sports Editor

After a month of rumors and speculation about the vacant defensive coordinator position, coach Gene Chizik found his guy, and he had him tagged from the very beginning. Brian VanGorder, formerly of the Atlanta Falcons, was introduced as Auburn’s defensive coordinator last Wednesday. “From the beginning of this process, I had one person in mind, and that was Brian,” Chizik said. VanGorder has experience at every level of coaching, from coach at Georgia Southern to defensive coordinator at Georgia and the Falcons. “He has achieved success at every level, both professionally and collegiately, which is a testament to his ability as a coach,” Chizik said. VanGorder’s main success was in the SEC, leading Georgia’s defense from 2001–

04. During that time, VanGorder’s four defenses were all ranked in the top 20. VanGorder was nominated for the Broyles Award, which is given to the top assistant in college football, in 2002. and he won it in 2003. Former Georgia Bulldog David Pollack, who played for VanGorder in college, tweeted after Auburn’s announcement, “VanGorder was the biggest football junkie I have ever been around. Studies hard. demands excellence and teaches you how to be a man.” Former defensive coordinator Ted Roof had basic philosophical differences in scheme with Chizik. VanGorder has run a Tampa 2 style that is very similiar to Chizik’s Cover 2 defense. At Georgia and with the Falcons, VanGorder used a speedy, athletic linebacker core much like the type of linebacker Chizik has recruited since his days as defensive coordinator at Auburn.

VANGORDER FILE PLAYING CAREER 1979–80: Wayne State Position: Linebacker COACHING CAREER 1989–91: Grand Valley State (HC) 1992–94: Wayne State (HC) 1994–96: Central Florida (LBs/ ST) 1996–97: Central Florida (DC) 1998–99: Central Michigan (DC) 2000: Western Illinois (DC) 2001–04: Georgia (DC) 2005: Jacksonville Jaguars (LBs) 2006: Georgia Southern (HC) 2007: Atlanta Falcons (LBs) 2008–12: Atlanta Falcons (DC) 2012–present: Auburn (DC)

While Chizik still needs to hire an offensive coordinator to replace the departed Gus Malzahn, if VanGorder’s hire is any indication, Chizik already has his man.

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Babul works behind scenes Patrick tighe SPORTS BEAT REPORTER

One of the behind-thescenes figures for Auburn basketball coach Tony Barbee is Mike Babul, director of basketball operations and a crucial figure in running daily operations as well as Barbee’s summer basketball camp. Babul shares a extensive history with Barbee as a player, coach and close friend. “Mike Babul is someone who is near and dear with me, having coached him when I was an assistant coach at UMass,” Barbee said. “I coached him for three years there, and then we worked together on the staff at Memphis for a year.” Babul has been Barbee’s director of basketball operations for the past five years, first at the University of Texas at El Paso and now Auburn. Every day, Babul tackles many of the logistical issues that arise during the daily grind. He covers everything from practice scheduling to paperwork to chartering flights and booking hotels for road contests. Babul is also in charge of communicating with the academic coordinator to make sure players’ academic needs are met. In the offseason, Babul’s main focus is Barbee’s annual summer basketball camp. “Running a basketball camp is a full-time job in itself,” Babul said. “It is especially demanding due to the number of sessions we conduct here at Auburn University. From April through September, I spend countless hours dealing with coach Barbee’s camp business.” Babul credits running two basketball camps in Georgia and Massachusetts as important experience for running Auburn’s, but the task is not

GETTING TO KNOW BABUL

CHRISTEN HARNED / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

Auburn’s first-ever triple-double came Jan. 2 with Kenny Gabriel’s 24 points, 13 rebounds and 10 blocks.

Gabriel grabs history books Robert Lee SPORTS BEAT REPORTER

without its challenges. “The hard part is the advertising and promotions and building your camp numbers,” Babul said. “The compliance paperwork and the auditing process is also time consuming.” Auburn is the first SEC program Babul has been involved with. Previously, he coached at UTEP, Drexel and Youngstown State. “That is what putting a winning product on the floor will bring, and we hope to get the game atmosphere at Auburn Arena to that level,” Babul said. “I’m not going to lie, Rupp Arena (of the Kentucky Wildcats) was pretty impressive last season. and generally it is a great atmosphere at any SEC school we visit.”

The history between Barbee and Babul includes many victories as well as growing pains, but Babul said the March 2010 UTEP win over UAB—sealed by a slam dunk from Derek Caracter to clinch the Confrence USA Title—was a big step for the UTEP basketball program. Barbee, Babul and the UTEP staff instilled an attitude about selfless play and accepting nothing but success, and Babul said he wants this mindset to carry over to Auburn. With SEC play underway, Babul made the staff ’s goals for success very clear. “We are anxious and determined to build this program and get the Tigers back to the NCAA Tournament,” he said.

Kenny Gabriel earned a place in the Auburn record books with his performance against Bethune-Cookman Jan. 2. Gabriel was the first Tiger in history of the program to earn a triple-double. Gabriel scored 24 points and had 13 rebounds and 10 blocks against the Wildcats, and he said his accomplishment was an afterthought. “I didn’t realize it until after the game,” he said. “I was just surprised and thankful to go down in history as the first from Auburn.” The senior power forward out of Charlotte, N.C., is averaging 12.6 points per game midway through the season. His 6-foot-8-inch stature is also helping him in the paint, where he is averaging almost eight rebounds per game in close to 29 minutes of playing time per game. He said his relationships off the court and his history with basketball provide him strong motivation, his family ties fueling his drive to excel.

“My son and my family keep me motivated,” Gabriel said. “Doing something I love to do and have done since I was little gives me motivation. I just have a natural feel for it.” Gabriel’s leadership is a major factor in the Tigers’ turnaround season. “If we keep playing Auburn basketball, I can see us making the NCAA Tournament,” Gabriel said. Last season, Gabriel finished with a career-high 320 points. After the 85–56 loss to Florida State last Wednesday, Gabriel is more than halfway to his current high with 177 points. Gabriel leads the team in points and rebounds, but believes defense is key to a winning season for the Tigers. “We have a lot of guys on the court that can create for others,” Gabriel said, “guys that can make shots and step up on defense.” In a press conference after his record-setting performance, Gabriel empha-

sized consistency and hustle as keys to his success. “I just have to keep playing hard every time I’m on the court,” he said. “Coach reminds me all the time to keep playing hard, and I’m just glad that I can have my name in the record books.” C o a c h To n y B a r b e e commenetd on Gabriel’s achievement after the game, surprised at Auburn’s first triple-double in light of the University’s past NBA stars. “The Chuck Persons, the Charles Barkleys, the Wesley Persons, the Mike Mitchells, you can go down the line and this is the first triple-double in Auburn history? It’s special,” Barbee said. Although Gabriel broke new ground last Monday night, his attitude remains the same. “We just have to know that we have to play as hard as we can for the rest of the season,” Gabriel said. Gabriel and the Tigers are in action against the Ole Miss Rebels this Saturday in Auburn Arena. Tip-off is at 12:30.

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What to watch in 1 5

2012

THE HUNGER GAMES This will be the first movie installment of Suzanne Collins’ novel series that became popular this past fall. Look for this movie to premiere March 23.

ARE YOU THERE, CHELSEA? Laura Prepon (That 70s Show) stars in a show adapted from Chelsea Handler’s novels. Handler stars in the show as her inspired character’s sister. It premiered Jan. 11 at 7:30 p.m. on NBC.

THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY The prequel to the “Lord of The Rings” trilogy, look for this much anticipated film to hit theaters Dec. 14.

SMASH Starring Debra Messing and Katharine McPhee, runner-up in the fifth season of “American Idol,” Smash portrays the work that goes into making a Broadway musical. Produced by Steven Spielberg, Smash premieres Feb. 6 at 9 p.m. on NBC.

ALCATRAZ Starring Jorge Garcia (Lost) and produced by J.J. Abrams (Lost), three people work to track down prisoners and guards years after their disappearances. Premieres on FOX Jan. 16 at 7 p.m.

THE GREAT GATSBY Based off the F. Scott Fitzgerald classic, this movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio will premiere Christmas Day.

Hayley Blair ASSOCIATE INTRIGUE EDITOR

SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNSTMAN Continuing with the popular trend of remaking fairy tales, this will be a new role for Twilight’s Kristen Stewart as Snow White. Catch this movie in theaters June 1.

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Shake away spring stress

Sleep and holiday gifts weren’t the only good things to come out of winter break. Bringing a break mindset into the new semester can help ward off stress when work starts piling up. Massive amounts of cake and pie, holly covering every surface of the house and custom Christmas ornaments with embarrassing photos are just a few of the things students might miss now that break is over. Joeleen Cooper, staff clinician for Student Counseling Services, said leaving such familiar surroundings can be stressful for some. “Sometimes I think one of the big ones is for people who have been struggling with homesickness,” Cooper said. “It can be really tough to have that time back home and then have to come back and adjust to that again.” Caroline Layden, freshman in communication disorders, said although it was difficult to leave the friends she visited in Tampa, Fla., she appreciated celebrating Christmas a second time with her Auburn friends. “I was texting my roommate and my suitemates the entire time I was away,” Layden said. “When we got back we went out to dinner and exchanged Christmas gifts, so it was pretty easy to get back into it, just hanging out with them.” Cooper said students should take the opportunity to find a comfortable environment away from family, and she recommends nurturing friendships soon after the semester begins. “It’s nice when you get back in town to just shoot someone a text or a call to let them know you’re around,” she said. “I think one of the themes of that is to not wait for these people to get in contact with you because you want to be as proactive as you can.” Cooper also said returning to Auburn can be an opportunity to get family involved in University events. “Another thing that’s important is finding a way to involve your family and friends back home with your

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TIPS FOR WINTER RUNNING Cover your hands Layer lightly — don’t overdress Switch up your running route Get used to cold weather running by starting out slow with walking or light jogging Stay accountable by running with a group Take advantage of the running trails around Auburn, like the ROTC Mundy Trail on Samford Avenue Try participating in races with a cause

Warming up with winter jogging Melody Kitchens ONLINE EDITOR

Winter doesn’t have to keep runners off the roads. For new runners, warmer winter weather can be an ideal time to begin training. “Winter is not too cold, not too bad here,” said Alvin Walls, member of Auburn Opelika Running and Track Association. “There’s less risk of heat stroke, and it can get really hot down here.” However, once the weather dips below 45 degrees, it is important to layer. “It’s smart to wear gloves and a cap,” Walls said. “Layers are important, but don’t overdress. That’s probably the biggest problem with new runners.” Adam Pugh, manager of Big Dog Running Company, agrees. “You’ll see runners when it’s 20 degrees with just a hat and gloves because after the first mile, you start to get pretty hot,” he said. Although winter weather may stifle breathing while running, both Walls and Pugh prefer to run outdoors compared to running on a treadmill. “I think it’s more of a preference of inside running and outdoor running,” said Christopher Squires, supervisor at the Student Activities Center. “I see the same amount of people inside, but I see a lot outside, too.” Lauren Boldt, senior in commu-

REBECCA CROOMES / PHOTO EDITOR

Billy Callahan, senior in architecture, and Channing Broderick, senior in radio, television and film, take a jog around Toomers Corner Tuesday morning.

nication and avid runner, said she prefers running when the weather is cooler. “I don’t really notice anything different as far as health benefits versus the summer, but for running in general, I have more energy and peace of mind,” she said. As well as an outlet for stress, new runners can stay consistent through

accountability from friends. “It’s a social thing to run with friends, and it will keep you going,” Boldt said. Boldt also said changing running routes helps runners steer from a mundane routine, as does running in races for a cause. “There’s the ROTC trail and the new trail on Moore’s Mill, as well as

nice neighborhoods in Auburn,” Boldt said. Walls said the key for new runners is to begin slowly through walking and light jogging, but progressing year round. “If you go run, you might as well run all year,” Walls said. For more information on organized runs, go to auburnrunning.org.

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MINDSET » From B5

life at Auburn,” Cooper said. “Getting people to come visit you or letting them know some of the things you are doing and keeping them up to date are some of the ideas I have.” Caleb Roby, junior in geology, said although many people dread the end of break, stressful situations will never last too long either. “Just remember that it’s going to end at some point, so you just have to do what you have to do and be calm about it,” he said. “Don’t freak out or stress about anything.” Cooper said breaking the

winter break mentality is the hardest part of returning after the holidays. “Even for me, when I’m on a break I know my sleep schedule gets really off,” she said. “If I don’t have any demands on my schedule, I might spend a lot of time doing relaxing things, so I think getting back into a routine as soon as possible is really important.” Layden said while an 8 a.m. class might be difficult, it’s important not to stress and to make time to relax. “Just try to make time for your friends, and make sure you have time to do the fun things you like to do,” Layden said.

Whitney Pritchett freshman, pre-graphic design

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Thursday, January 12, 2012

Music makes college experience Hayley Blair ASSOCAIATE INTRIGUE EDITOR

The members of Marv and the Stikky Bandits didn’t come to Auburn expecting to join a band, but their experiences making music ended up becoming a large part of their college stories. “You don’t just come to college for educational purposes,” said Casey Chilson, junior in industrial engineering and keyboardist. “You’re learning to be social and to interact with people. “Being on stage, you have to involve the crowd, and you also have four other people you have to work with timewise. I’ve learned a lot about dealing with people and just enjoying people’s company.” Spencer Daniel, senior in communication and lead singer, said the band started at the end of his junior year a few months after his previous band, Moose, broke up. “We started thinking, ‘We can all play instruments, so we might as well get together and try to form something to have fun and do something on the side,’” Daniel said. Dave Chenault, senior in business and bass player, graduates in May along with Daniel and Tony Braswell, the lead guitarist. Chenault is preparing for a job interview with an oil company. Most of the band members have majors that don’t involve music, though Chilson thought about double majoring in piano. “I met with the office of engineering and asked if that would be a possibility, and they said there was no way I could do it,” he said. Chilson has been playing the piano since the seccond grade and said being part of Marv and the Stikky Bandits was the opportunity he needed to keep playing.

CHRISTEN HARNED / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

Left to right: Casey Chilson, David Chenault, Spencer Daniel, Troy Braswell and John Babington sit on the steps of the house where their band, Marv and the Stikky Bandits, practices. The band, which covers popular songs, will be performing Feb. 2 at Bourbon Street Bar.

“There’s not much more I can be taught about music,” he said. “There’s a certain point when you kind of have to play to get better, and I think that’s where I am. I just have to go out and do it myself.” Daniel chose to major in communication because he thought it would help him easily interact with others, both as a lead singer relating to his audience and as a future employee. “With the major and my music it helped me kind of relax and be comfortable in my own shoes,” Daniel said. The band name was meant to be silly, and Daniel said he thinks it’s a perfect fit. “We sort of tried to come up with really technical names sort of along the same lines as Perpetual Groove or Umphrey’s McGee, like these jam bands that are popular now,

Spaghetti with Spinach Walnut Presto

and we realized that was a little too serious,” Daniel said. Daniel said when the band finally came up with the name a night or two before their first performance, they were inspired by the burglars from the “Home Alone” movies. “We were just kind of doing this part time,” Daniel said. “We were a new band just trying to have fun with it. We didn’t want people to get the wrong impression. We started texting some friends, and they thought it was hilarious, and I think it fits us perfectly. If you watch us in a show, we’re very energetic, and we have a lot of fun with it.” The band’s first performance was at Bourbon Street Bar, and co-owner Dan Grider said the Stikky Bandits are great at keeping the crowd excited. “They kind of add their

own twist to it,” Grider said. “They’re not just playing songs that people know, but they play songs that people know, and they add their own style to it and make it more entertaining.” Daniel said the band performs everything from Nelly to the Beatles in an effort to play music the audience likes. Even though the band will be performing for the last time at a wedding this summer, Chilson said being in the band has meant a lot. “It’s been a huge part of my college experience,” Chilson said. “It’s been a blast. I wouldn’t trade it for anything, and I would put it right up there with any class I’ve taken.” The band performs at many Greek events and will also be playing Feb. 2 at Bourbon Street Bar.

Kerry’s recipe of the week

Ingredients: 1 box of spaghetti, cooked 4 cups fresh baby spinach 1/3 cups walnuts 1 clove garlic 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese 2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Directions: Reserve 1 cup of the water the pasta was cooked in and set aside. In a food processor or blender combine the spinach, walnuts, garlic and Parmesan cheese. Blend and slowly add the olive oil until a smooth sauce is formed. Toss in a large bowl with the pasta. Add desired amount of pasta water to add creaminess. Serves: 8

Contributed by Kerry Fannon

Career Prepare to talk Thursday, January 12, 2012

How to prepare for a phone interview Kate Jones INTRIGUE EDITOR

Phone interviews can seem daunting, but they don’t have to be. Whether it’s best to have the interview in pajamas or a suit is personal preference, said Katie Mantooth, career counselor at Career Development Services. But there are strategies for success. Mantooth said one strategy is to have everything that may be needed on hand for the interview, including the job description, resume and cover letter. “The advantage you have is you can have a computer,”

Mantooth said. She said in interviews conducted by a panel, the organization’s staff list could be used to keep track of who is speaking. “I've even had people who have cut out either pictures or just name cards to put in front of them if they know there is a panel on the other end so they kind of can visually act like they are addressing different people, and the reminders have the name cues to be able to use someone’s name when they’ve asked you a question,” Mantooth said. In addition, she said sitting in a quiet spot is helpful. “I’ve had students who get a phone call from an unknown number, and you pick it up while you are walking down the street,” she said. “Well, the Tiger Transit is going by and you can’t hear anybody. And even though it may just be to set up an interview, you want it to be in your best light.” Another recommendation for phone interviews is to find a landline and turn off the cellphone. “There is almost guaranteed better clarity in the call and no risk of the call being dropped,” Mantooth said. Mantooth said landlines are available in the CDS office in Mary Martin Hall for students to reserve for an interview. “However, if a student doesn’t have access to a landline, it certainly isn’t a deal breaker or anything,” Mantooth said. “I just know that in a job search, I want to elim-

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inate every challenge present, and finding a landline on a college campus is still a pretty easy fix.” One question to expect regardless of the interview format is the standard, “tell me about yourself.” “They want to know with that question what I need to know about you to want to hire you,” Mantooth said. “It’s the personal traits that make you fit for the company and the skills that make you prepared for that job that you’re interviewing for.” Interviewees should also expect to be asked to describe their strengths and weaknesses, she said. For weaknesses, Mantooth said to avoid deal breakers, like consistently being late, but not to give “the generic, cheesy, it’s really a positive, like, ‘I can’t say no’ or ‘I’m a perfectionist.’” To practice, students can set up mock interviews at the CDS office. TIPS FOR A CELL PHONE INTERVIEW 1. Don’t use speaker phone. 2.Turn off other phone alerts during interview. 3. Find a location with the best reception. 4. Maks sure your voicemail greeting is professional. 5. In a job search, don’t answer calls from unkown numbers where talking could be difficult. Call back when you can write notes and the noise level is low.

Intrigue

Job Spotlight: Kelley Andrews Auburn graduate and cancer survivor starts company that designs headwraps for children with cancer Hayley Blair ASSOCIATE INTRIGUE EDITOR

Button Up Sunshine, a company that makes colorful headwraps designed for children with cancer, was started by Auburn graduate Kelley Andrews. For every five headwraps sold, Button Up Sunshine donates one to a child with cancer. How did you come up with the name for Button Up Sunshine? I wanted to bring sunshine and encouragement to those patients who were sick in the hospital. I thought that when I was sick as a child, I didn’t have hats to really choose from. I had to wear ball caps, and I had this crochet hat thing that was ridiculous. So I thought I want to make bright and cheerful fabrics and comfortable soft hats for kids with cancer. What did you do to officially start the business? I started it all from the ground up. My name is official, so no one else can have it. I have a Facebook page, but I also have a website that’s going to be developed so people can buy them online.

CONTRIBUTED

Kelley Andrews, creator of Button Up Sunshine, models her products.

Did you expect to end up running your own business? It was never expected. I was a communication major, so I never really learned anything about business. I’ve had a lot of incredible mentors outside of college who have advised me to get where I am today. I have a manufacturer making all of these right now, so I’m not even sewing them anymore. It was me sewing them, and I took all of these sewing lessons and pattern-making classes, but now I have a professional guy in charge of manufacturing them. They are high quality products. What did you learn at Auburn that helped you get started? I guess what I learned at Auburn was the ability to put a project together and follow through, but the business plan and all of the stuff I have developed through this whole process was really from mentors and researching. As a cancer survivor yourself, do you think it’s

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important to have this type of connection when you are looking for a career? That is the only reason I’m doing this. If there was not a need, then I wouldn’t do something, but I knew I had to do this because I went through a lot as a kid. This is my way of giving back, but it has actually become a business. Not only can I cover the cost for the product I’m making, which is new, but I can also donate to the hospital I was actually treated in, and it’s going to spread to other hospitals also. I want to reach St. Jude’s and eventually every hospital across the country. I absolutely think that you have to have your heart passionate about something or you won’t be able to get up and do it every single day. You have to have a reason and a purpose for why you are into your job to be successful. I work full time on a job, and I just do this on the side. You just have to make it work for you, and you really get a lot of fulfillment when you are doing something you are passionate about.

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Thursday, January 12, 2012

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