2.2.12 edition of the Auburn Plainsman by The Auburn Plainsman

Recreation and Wellness Center update, B1

The Auburn Plainsman A Spirit That Is Not Afraid www.theplainsman.com

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Vol. 118, Issue 16, 16 Pages

Student memorial idea lives on SGA waits for Board of Trustee approvial Lane Jones Campus Beat Reporter

The Student Government Association is teaming up with the Department of Industrial Design to build a student memorial commemorating those we have lost and celebratory the spirit that lives on. Chris Osterlund, SGA vice president, said the idea for the memorial was prompted by Auburn’s reaction to the two 2011 Spring Break deaths. “I started thinking of the idea of the Auburn family and the fellowship that comes from being a family,” Osterlund said. “Despite the loss and the tragedy that came from it, the fellowship that was created through that was extremely inspiring. We talked amongst ourselves in SGA and decided if it was something we wanted to pursue.” Ross Square was selected as the location for the memorial. “The reason why we arrived at this place is that Ross Square is purely functional as an access point, but not functional for anything else,” Osterlund said. “People walk across it and it’s got this great centerpiece that draws attention, but it draws attention because there’s green water and fish are often floating at the top of it, so it seemed like a great place to renovate.” Once SGA approved the memorial, Oster-

Christen Harned / Assistant Photo Editor

From left: Amira Roshdy, Maher Ismail, Basem Ismail and Farida Abou Zeida gather to show support on the one-year anniversary of the Egyptian Revolution.

One year of

revolution

» See memorial, A2

Egyptian students raise awareness for the oneyear anniversary of the Egyptian revolution

Elizabeth Bonner

sitions into a democracy,” Ahmed said. “But they are the military, and the military’s run the country since they gained Waving their nation’s flag and disindependence in the 1920s. There is a lot playing signs and banners, Egyptian of apprehension amongst people as to students and community members whether the military gathered in front of Ralph will actually hand Brown Draughon Library over power.” Jan. 25 to mark the anniMade worse by versary of their nation’s Egyptians decided continued police revolution. brutality, the uncerThey were showing sup- to stand up tainty of the situaport support for the thou- peacefully again tion has helped keep sands once again profor their rights the revolution alive. testing in Cairo’s Tahrir “After almost one Square, a year after Egyp- and for their year since those untians took to the streets stolen dream of a historical calling on their president, democratic state.” forgettable, days of the Egyptian Hosni Mubarak, to step down. —Sawsan Gharib revolution, the status Egyptian-Amreican quo in Egypt is wors“(Mubarak) was a milipolitical activist ening,” said Sawsan tary dictator,” said Azeem Gharib, an EgyptianAhmed, junior in finance American political activist. and economics. “For 30 years he ruled “The post-revolution rulers of Egypt under emergency law. He effectively ran are still enforcing emergency law, dea police state. A lot of people would go taining innocent people without trial, missing. There was a lot of police brusubjecting civilians to military courts, tality.” killing protesters, using prohibited Ahmed witnessed the discontent and weapons against peaceful protesters, protests that persisted when he arrived kidnapping revolutionists, defaming in Egypt as an intern with the United Narevolutionists using state-owned media tions World Food Programme in May, afand torturing, targeting and sexually inter Mubarak’s departure. sulting women.” “The military council runs the country right now, and they are the ones in charge of making sure the country tran» See Revolution, A2 Writer

SGA plans to add 50 new bike racks Ariana Diaz Writer

As Auburn continues to strive for a bikefriendly campus, Student Government Association, in partnership with Facilities Management, has announced the installation of 50 new bike racks that will be available in the fall. After several discussions over the course of a year, facilities has agreed to fund the SGA proposal. “We just recognized the need for more bike racks on campus,” said Owen Parrish, SGA assistant vice president of facilities. The project is estimated to cost $90,000, said Gail Riese, communications and marketing specialist for Facilities Management. Parrish said SGA will determine the current use of bike racks at Haley Center, the Student Center and the Village and gather student feedback to provide location recommendations to facilities by the end of next month. Emmanuel Winston, senior in radio, television and film, said he’s been riding a bike since his freshman year and has noticed the

» See Racks, A2

“

Google Maps

Protests erupted in major Egyptian cities including Cairo and Alexandria Jan. 25, 2011.

Christen Harned / Assistant Photo Editor

This sign depicts an Egyptian dentist who lost both eyes, one at the start of the revolution and the other soon after.

Preview

Community // A6

Intrigue // B7

Sex & relationships

Workshop to provide magic of fiction writing

Swap to save

Next week, The Plainsman will publish a sex and relationships special issue featuring love stories, tips and sultry gifts.

Mystic Order of East Alabama Fiction Writers hosts fiction writing workshop Feb. 7.

Two students team up to host a clothing swap at Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship.

Recycled paper

Campus A2

The Auburn Plainsman

DUI Arrests in the City of Auburn Jan. 17 – Jan. 31, 2012 ■ Mark R. Morris, 19, of Dothan, Ala. N. Gay Street at Martin Avenue Jan. 17, 3:55 a.m. ■ Cameron C. Warren, 20, of Jupiter, Fla. Shelton Mill Road Jan. 29, 55:55 a.m. ■ Justin E. Story, 20, of Opelika Wright Street at Magnolia Avenue Jan. 29, 3:17 a.m. ■ James M. Moore, 21, of Matthews, N.C. E. University Drive at Heard Avenue Jan. 28, 1:53 a.m. ■ Jenny M. Murphy, of Sheffield, Ala. Opelika Road Jan. 31, 2:18 a.m.

Crime Reports for Jan. 26 – Jan. 30, 2011 Jan. 26 — Opelika Road Theft of property reported. Half carat white and yellow gold diamond men’s ring, one carat men’t ring, silver necklace with skull and crossbones pendant Jan. 26 — Opelika Road Theft of property reported. Various women’s underwear

Revolution » From A1

Campus Events Feb. 2-Feb. 9

Discoverin g th e world throug h gourment cuisine Purdue University associate professor of linguistics, Becky Brown, will give a lecture on food. Food served after. Free and open to students, faculty, staff and memebers of community. When Feb. 2, 3:30 p.m. Where Haley Center 3193 Dance: meaning in motion A performance by Auburn University Department of Theatre responding to Julie Collins Smith Museum’s space, collection and exhibitions When Feb 2-6, 6 p.m. Where JCSM Career expo Students and alumni interested in engineering or technical field are encourage to attending When Feb. 7, 3–7 p.m. Where Auburn University Hotel and Dixion CC

Service learning colloquia speaker Tulane University’s Center of Public Service Sirector to Speak Vincent Illustre, will speak about service learning course design. When Feb. 8, 12:30-2 p.m. Where Student Center 2223 Engaged Scholar Speaker Series The college of Liberal Arts community and civic engagement initiative will host its third Engaged Scholar speaker series When Feb. 8, 5:30–6:30 p.m. Where Gnu’s Room Multicultural center Lunch & Learn Series: Ann Jordan Reynolds Panel discussion on the theme, “Increasing AIDS Awareness in Vulnerable Communities” When Feb. 9, 11:45 a.m.– 1 p.m. Where Student Center

Live, learn, and work

with a community overseas. Tuesday, February 14th Info Session

Info Table

Student Center

Student Center, rm 2218

11:30am - 2:00pm

Starts @ 7pm

Peace Corps is actively seeking Auburn University’s students and alumni who are interested in gaining international experience. Meet with your regional recruiter on campus to hear about his volunteer experience, have your questions answered, and receive tips to become a more competitive applicant. Peace Corps still has agriculture and environment positions departing in 2012. Send Mike your resume or scan the below QR code for immediate consideration.

Mike Robie: mrobie@peacecorps.gov

www.peacecorps.gov/apply/now www.peacecorps.gov

Thursday, February 2, 2012

In response, Egyptians used the anniversary to revive their calls for democratic representation. “They decided that the revolution must continue until the complete and genuine achievement of all of the revolution’s goals,” Gharib said. “Egyptians decided to stand up peacefully again for their rights and for their stolen dream of a democratic state.” Gharib helped organize Global Days, in which every state and major city in the country organized a protest during the week of the anniversary to show support for the protestors abroad. “(The U.S. protests) have been very beneficial,” Gharib said. “Awareness is raised. We sent a strong message to the Supreme Council of Armed Forces that is ruling and a stronger message to the revolution in Tahrir that we are all united behind them.” Yasser Gowayed, an Egyptian-American and professor of polymer and fiber engineering, was unable to attend last week’s protest, but said his wife attended. “I would say most Auburn Egyptians are supporting the revolution and are against SCAF,” Gowayed said. “There are some people that did not go because they believe the military is hijacking the revolution, and they don’t see a reason to celebrate until it’s completely over. They are

Rack

» From A2 bike racks are always full. He said he uses a bike rack when one’s available, but doesn’t have one at all of his classes. Parrish said the project helps accomplish Facilities Management’s goal of having uniformity across campus by replacing old bike racks and adding to new ones already installed.

Memorial » From A2

lund presented the project to the Department of Industrial Design. “I’ve had some friends in industrial design and they get some really awesome hands-on experience, but a lot of the times it’s external to the University,” Osterlund said. “We’ve got these great, talented young people that are investing in projects that are not at Auburn. Why not use it as a resource while providing them with an opportunity to give back to the University and have a stake on campus that they can return to and say, ‘Yeah, I was a part of that.’” Osterlund met with faculty to explain why a student memorial is a necessary addition to Auburn’s campus. Tin-Man Lau, industrial design professor, accepted it as a project for his 4000-level thesis studio. “The final model will be March 26,” Lau

Jan. 26 — Oak Ridge Drive Auto theft reported. White Chevrolet 1500

Jan. 30 — S. College Street. Theft of property reported. Auto theft reported. One Yeti tan cooler, sixpack Coors Lite, tool set, backpack, video camera, binoculars, yardage meter

Jan. 27 — Opelika Road Theft of property reported. One and a quarter liter of Aristocrat vodka Jan. 27 — W. Magnolia Avenue Theft of property reported. One Yeti 65-quart cooler

— Reports provided by Auburn Department of Public Safety

looking to continue the revolution until the military is out of the picture. There are also some who did not go to the protest because they want to give SCAF a chance to finish its job until June.” During Ahmed’s time in Egypt, he was informed of protests via U.S. Embassy advisories, which he ignored, instead choosing to make his way to the hot spots to converse with the protestors. “A protestor came up to me and told me, ‘We’re human too. We have the exact same needs and wants and everything as you guys do. Just like you have democracy in your country, we want it in ours. We want to bring it to our own country like you brought it to your own,’” Ahmed said. Though slow, progress has been made in the past year. “The progress has been removing Hosni Mubarak,” said William Malczycki, Islamic history specialist in the history department. “People wanted change right away, and they didn’t get it with SCAF. One has to keep in mind, (Mubarak) was there for 30 years, and it’s not going to happen overnight.” Still, the country is taking steps toward securing a democratic government. “This time last year they had a military dictator that had been in power for 30 years,” Ahmed said. “Now they’ve already had almost all their rounds of parliamentary elections, and in a couple months they’ll have presidential elections.

Christen Harned / Assistant Photo Editor

Nahla Moso and Moriom Azzam held signs in front of the Ralph Brown Draughn Library. Azzam said that steps have been taken to make things better, such as setting up a parliment, but there is no planning and problems are only dealt with as they arise.

“As far as the international monitors have seen, the elections have not been rigged. A record amount of Egyptians have turned out to vote. People are doing their part. “The government, so far, seems to be doing their part. They’re on the road to a peaceful, democratic transition.”

Winston said he approves of the new standard bike rack. “They’re real good.” Winston said. “They’re convenient, they’re quick and they’re a lot faster than the old ones.” As of July 15 of last year, 315 bikes were registered with Auburn University Parking Services, Riese said. Parrish said high gas prices and parking difficulties on campus, as well as the convenience of riding a bike to class, has led to more bikes on campus.

Reise added that biking reduces campus traffic, parking demands and promotes sustainability. SGA is expecting more bike riders next fall with the start of Auburn’s bike sharing program, Parrish said, another reason to ensure an adequate number of bike racks. “It’s not a huge project, but it’s a positive difference for people who ride their bikes,” Parrish said. “And bikes are becoming highly trafficked as an option of getting to class.”

said. “The project is not just the design. We’re responsible to come up with documentation for the whole project. The SGA is going to print it and use it as a fundraising tool. Our end result is not just the model, but the publication with drawings and reasoning behind the design.” The project must get approval from the Board of Trustees before the decision is finalized. Osterlund said it’s going to require student support to get the memorial approved. “It’s pending approval,” Osterlund said. “Certainty is not something I have by any means. I’m certain that I’m going to bust my (hump) until I get turned down at the door.” Lau said the 14 students designing the memorial are excited about the chance to design something meaningful for Auburn’s campus. “As history goes, a lot of these things are forgotten,” Lau said. “With this memorial

park, when friends and family come back, they’ll see that their children were here. I think that is the family touch of Auburn University. We are a family. We don’t just forget things.” Matt Scallion, senior in industrial design, is one of the students designing the memorial. He said Auburn students are more equipped to design this structure because of its significance to the community. “We’re a part of Auburn and a part of the student body,” Scallions said. “We see firsthand how death affects the student body. I think an outside firm wouldn’t understand really what it means to have something like this built on our campus.” Osterlund said he hopes the memorial becomes a place where students can gather to celebrate life. “We want to make this a center point,” Osterlund said. “We want students to be able to hang out in between classes and interact with the structure. “

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The Auburn Plainsman A SPIRIT THAT IS NOT AFRAID Student Union Suite 1111 Auburn, Al 36849 Editor: 334.844.9021 News: 334.844.9109 General Manager: 334.844.9101 Advertising: 334.844.4130 Miranda Dollarhide Editor-in-chief editor@theplainsman.com Jenny Rikelman Advertising Manager admanager@theplainsman. com Judy Riedl General Manager gm@theplainsman.com Kim Rape Office Manager Mailing Address 255 Heisman Drive, Suite 1111 Auburn, Al 36849

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Campus A3

The Auburn Plainsman

New theatre organization combines drama, diversity Mosaic Theatre Company is taking auditions for its first semester Becky Hardy CAMPUS BEAT REPORTER

DANIELLE LOWE / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

Emily Johnson, junior in agriculture communications, edits an Eagle Eye segment Friday afternoon. Eagle Eye staff hope to purchase new equipment and software to more closely resemble a professional news network. The purchase would cost approximately $85,000.

Eagle Eye saves up for professional equipment This week, The Auburn Plainsman continues its examination of Student Activity Projects Becky Hardy CAMPUS BEAT REPORTER

Eagle Eye, Auburn University and the Auburn community’s only local TV station, wants to make big changes with its budget this year. “It’s really the best way to get an organization’s name out there,” said Caroline Harrell, sophomore in radio, television and film and news director for Eagle Eye. “It’s really the best way to get Auburn out on a bigger stage than just Alabama.” Eagle Eye has worked with big names in the production industry and hopes to work with more in the future. “I know we’ve done packages for ESPN, ESPNU, and that really gets Auburn to a larger stage that is much bigger than just this small city or even just this small section of the Southeast,” Harrell said. Most of Eagle Eye’s budget pays for equipment and pro-

motions, Harrell said. “There’s a lot of maintaining things, along with promotions,” Harrell said. “We give out T-shirts, sunglasses and koozie to really get Eagle Eye’s name out there.” Eagle Eye members are hoping to upgrade their technology to what the professional stations use in their studios. “We’re trying to transform a new studio with a certain software, which they use in real news studios,” said Parker Willett, senior in radio, television and film and stage manager and technical director of Eagle Eye. “We have Macs, but that is not what the professionals use, so we are trying to purchase Avid, which is the editing software most professionals use, but it is really expensive.” Equipment replacement is a large part of Eagle Eye’s budget, Harrell said. “Something can pop up, like replacing equipment,” Harrell said. “Our teleprompter broke, so we had to buy a new one … so just because of wear and tear we have to replace things.” Some of the budget goes toward trips for Eagle Eye volunteers. “We also sometimes take a trip to New York, like we did last year, which takes some money out of the budget,”

Harrell said. Willett said this year Eagle Eye is expected to receive about $44,000, which is only half the cost of the Avid software. “An equipment purchase like that would cost roughly $85,000 and would require special request paperwork to be done and going through different hearings to get signed off,” Willett said. Only two students are paid from the budget. “The station manager … and the news director are the only ones that get paid,” Willett said. “The rest of the reporters are voluntary. I think most people work here for the experience.” Eagle Eye is helpful to students in a variety of ways, Harrell said. “I think our contribution to this campus is to really help others get their name out there while giving the radio, television and film students more hands-on experience,” She said. Harrell said she thinks she has learned more at Eagle Eye than she would have learned in a classroom. “This has prepared me for what I want to do more than anything else,” Harrell said. “Because of Eagle Eye I’m probably going to get a better job because I have that experience.”

2011–2012 Budget Allotment

$60,241.00

Increase From Last Year

$16,943.60

2012-2013 auburn Cheerleader Tryouts Auburn Cheerleading Tryouts will be held on April 16-18, 2012. An interest meeting will be held on Thursday, February 9 at 6:30 p.m. in the Courtside Lounge in Auburn Arena.

For the dates of the upcoming clinics and additional information on the Auburn Cheerleaders, please visit auburn.edu/cheer.

Mosaic Theatre Company, a new program for Auburn students, addresses issues of diversity through acting. “The reason why theatre is a great place for talking about diversity is because theatre is a place of empathy,” said Joan Lipkin, guest teacher at Mosaic Theatre Company and artistic director of That Uppity Theatre in St. Louis. “When you step into someone’s shoes you can see their view better.” The Mosaic Theatre Company is a collaboration between Heather May, assistant professor of theatre and artistic director for Mosaic, and Anna Gramberg, dean of the College of Liberal Arts. The program, starting the first summer session of 2012, will provide a place for students to learn and express their views about issues of diversity through theatrical performances. “The goal is that we are dedicated to the creation and the performance of the original works of theatre that interrogate issues of diversity in the hopes of stimulating dialogue,” May said. Students will work with various artists through the sum-

mer to build acting skills. “We will do everything from improv workshops to movement workshops to just building skills, and hopefully by the end we will have a piece of theatre that is ready to be performed,” May said. Performances will target issues of diversity, and Lipkin said diversity is encouraged among students so they can create works to be performed at the end of the summer. “We are looking for students varied in race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, physical and mental ability, age, religious background and economic class committed to fostering dialogue through performance,” said Heather Horn, graduate student in higher education administration and graduate assistant for Mosaic. “Students auditioning for the company need not prepare anything, but should come dressed to move.” Lipkin insists all students be open to new experiences and to take chances. “What is needed,” Lipkin said, “is an interest in the cre-

ative process and performing, commitment to the Auburn community, a sense of humor, openness, a willingness to try some activities that you may not be familiar with and a desire to share time with people whose experiences may differ from your own.” Students who are not theatre majors are also encouraged to audition. “I think it’s important that people understand that they don’t have to be a theatre major,” Lipkin said. “Regular people have their own life experiences to bring to the table.” May said she wants to expand the group beyond the University. “For a long term goal, I would like to have a touring with not just students, but even people from the community,” May said. Applications are now available. Auditions will be held Feb. 19 from 1–4 p.m. in the Telfair Peet Theatre, Room 126. For more information contact AUMosaicTheatre@gmail. com.

Campus A4

The Auburn Plainsman

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Physiology Building scheduled for demolition Ali Jenkins WRITER

The Physiology Building, located on the Thach Concourse, is scheduled for demolition by the summer of 2013 after the construction of a new Biodiversity Learning Center, according to Auburn Facilities Management. Home to Auburn’s Museum of Natural History, the building holds hundreds of thousands of specimens, including collections of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, invertebrates and fishes. Built in 1922, nearly 40 years prior to the establishment of Auburn University, the building’s age is noticeable. “I’m used to it, but I think that most people’s first reactions when they come in here is they realize it’s really undermaintained,” said Claire Floyd, acting assistant curator of her-

petological collections. Forrest Cortes, sophomore in wildlife ecology and management, has volunteered in the herpetology department of the museum for more than a year. “It’s a little dated,” Cortes said. “I think that there could potentially be some health concerns with the building, but it’ll be nice when we get a new building.” Floyd said she is excited about the relocation of the collections and hopes the change will attract new and curious visitors. “It’s supposed to be a really nice facility,” Floyd said. “We’ll have rooms for all the collections, and it should be more accessible for people to come in and view the collections.” For those who work there, the want for a new building is more than cosmetic.

“I like working there because it’s just kind of cool to see all of the diversity of the species we work with, but it’s just kind of frustrating sometimes with the old building because we have a lot of leaks, light fixture fallings, annoyances throughout the building,” Cortes said. Although Facilities Management assures the building is safe, Floyd said she doesn’t always feel comfortable. “When it rains, we get scared it’s going to collapse,” she said. Facilities Management is nearing the design completion for the new Biodiversity Learning Center and expects to receive construction bids by the end of March. The new facility will be built between Rouse Life Sciences and M. White Smith Hall, placing the faculty and researchers

REBECCA CROOMES / PHOTO EDITOR

The Physiology Building houses Auburn’s Museum of Natural History featuring thousands of preserved specimens. The building is scheduled to be demolished by summer of next year, after the museum collections are moved to the planned Biodiversity Learning Center.

from the physiology department closer to the rest of the biology department. “We’ve been organizing it and trying to get it all ordered so we can have it ready when

we finally make the move,” Cortes said, referring to the 40,000 reptile and amphibian specimens that make up the herpetology collection. Once the move is complete,

a green space will occupy the footprint of the Physiology Building. “We all have a bond to the building,” Cortes said. “It’ll be a sad day for all of us.”

Architecture students design transit stop, win competition Bradley Roberts WRITER

A group of architecture students have taken their skills across state lines. Students from the College of Architecture, Design and Construction recently took home the first place prize at the 30th annual conference of the National Organization of Minority Architects. The students designed a multipurpose building that would replace a MARTA stop in the Vine City neighborhood outside of downtown Atlanta. It was the group’s first year to compete in the conference. Kevin Moore, professor of architecture and one of the team’s advisers, said the neighborhood that was the compe-

tition’s focus is famous for its rich cultural history. “The competition was chosen to deal with a neighborhood in Atlanta which is a historic African-American neighborhood,” Moore said. “It’s got an amazing history. It was a segregated neighborhood, so there’s all of the problems that you would associate with a segregated neighborhood, but also all these interesting opportunities.” NOMA’s mission is to encourage diversity within architectural professions by displaying the importance of community engagement and the professional development of its members. Every year the NOMA conference has a national design

competition, and any school that has a NOMA chapter is eligible to enter. The group’s redesign for the MARTA stop focused on maximizing the existing space as well as creating a place for potential businesses, a venue for community activities and possible housing. Moore said the group’s design incorporated the potential for a grocery store, retail space and 500 parking spaces. Moore and Carla Jackson Bell, director of Multicultural Affairs for the CADC, advised the 11-student group throughout the process. The project started as part of a three credit hour independent study, and the design process was spread across three

semesters. While 11 students worked on the project at some point during the three semesters, four were present for the duration of the project. Phillip Ewing, Kenneth Lao, Kyle Johnson and Damian Bolden, seniors in archiecture, comprised the core group. “It was pretty much evenly distributed between us four, especially toward the end,” Ewing said. “All of us were sitting together in a room huddled around a table. We called it the ‘war room’ at the time.” Ewing said the project took about six months of research and design development with 14 straight 12-hour days to finish the final product. Ewing said the group pre-

sented the design to a jury of architecture professors and professionals. He said the group used a design board to present its ideas to the panel, with only five minutes of presentation time. “We tried to sort of pick out what are our selling points,” Ewing said. “We tried to think of it almost like a marketing pitch. We focused on strong points and played that up.” Ewing said he credited the team’s design board for conveying their ideas effectively. “When you are doing these presentations, the judges are sort of listening to you, but they are already sort of looking over on the boards,” Ewing said. “They’ll make up their mind about what to say based

on what you have up on the board.” Lao said in the final weeks before the competition he was confident the group would be successful. “We actually put a paper up in the room that said, ‘We are going to win,’” Lao said. “It set a mentality to the team.” Lao said he was proud to be able to help CADC gain recognition across the country. “It’s kind of a good feeling to help put Auburn’s school of architecture on the map,” he said. “It’s not necessarily about an individual honor.” The group is already preparing for this year’s competition, Lao said. “Winning is hard, but repeating is harder.”

Community

www.theplainsman.com

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Community

Nationally recognized golf course celebrates 20 years of business Kristen Oliver COMMUNITY EDITOR

For 20 years, people have traveled from across the world to play golf at Robert Trent Jones at Grand National in Opelika. Architect Robert Trent Jones designed a group of public courses for the state of Alabama in the early ‘90s. “They built the trail in ’92, and they built all the facilities at the same time,” said Scott Gomberg, director of golf at Grand National. Today, the golf trail consists of 26 courses at 11 different sites across the state. “They really are amazing courses,” said Ben Holmes, junior in marketing. “I’ve played at Hampton Cove in Huntsville and here. It’s really nice.” To celebrate 20 years of business in the state of Alabama, many of the trails are offering a special deal all year. “We are doing the entire trail—with the exception of Ross Bridge—$20 on the 20th,” Gomberg said. “On the 20th of every month throughout the year 2012 we’re doing $20 green fees.” The Wall Street Journal said the trail’s normal prices, between $40 and $65, “may be the best bargain in the

country.” The grounds at Grand National in Opelika are impressive and have been host to multiple tournaments. “We’ve got 54 holes, 36 championship golf holes and 18 holes are par 3, short course,” Gomberg said. “The facility has held the LPGA Tournament of Champions, the Nike Tour championship, the 2000 Men’s NCAA Championship and the Ladies’ 2004 NCAA Championship. It was voted the No. 1 public golf course by the readers of Golf World Magazine, and that’s in the nation, not just local.” Gomberg said its amenities include a full club house, restaurant, pro shop and driving range. Changes to Grand National started last year. Parts of the golf course were renovated, including the greens on the lake course and the driving range. This year, six total locations had major renovations to prepare for the anniversary. Holmes said discounting prices for a year would help bring interest to the trails. “It’s a good price to golf normally, but $20 is a steal,” he said. “I’m sure they’ll be busy the 20th of every month this year.”

COURTESY OF MICHAEL CLEMMER

The holes on the lake at the Grand National golf course are said to be some of the best views in the nation.

Gomberg said Grand National has done well in recent years despite many golfers being affected by the economy. “We have continued to do very, very well,” he said. “Obviously the traveling rounds have gone down

slightly with people not traveling as much as they have in the past, which we’ve seen in the past two years. This year it looks like the travelers are getting stronger.” Gomberg attributed the part of the course’s success to the growth of local

businesses. “With our local market getting stronger, in addition to the local car industry with Kia and Hyundai, we have seen our local business just going through the roof. We are continuing to do very, very well.”

Take health to heart Donny ‘DJ Donny B’ Blankenship works his dream job at Mix 96.7

Stay healthy during Heart Disease Awareness Month with events at Chewacla State Park

Brandy Volovecky

Katelyn Gaylor

WRITER

Just three years ago, Donny Blankenship graduated from Auburn with no clear plan for his future. Today, he is the well-known radio personality ‘DJ Donny B’ on Mix 96.7. Blankenship, who was born and raised in Alpharetta, Ga., moved to Auburn in 2004 to attend the University. “I was originally studying (public relations),” Blankenship said. “I always loved watching TV and movies, and then I discovered that Auburn actually offered a degree in radio, television and film and I switched to that.” Blankenship didn’t know where his major might take him, but decided to follow his gut. He worked as the assistant news director at WEGL until he received an opportunity to intern at Mix 96.7, where he’s been ever since. “It’s my only job since interning

February is a time of romance, chocolate and mass-produced greeting cards thanks to the celebration of Valentine’s Day. But there are bigger and better reasons to search your heart this time of the year, as February is also National Heart Disease Awareness Month. One way to stay heart-healthy this month is Chewacla State Park’s 23rd annual Love Your Heart Run and 5th annual Crank Your Heart Ride Feb. 18. The run is a 10K, and the bike ride is one of two trails at three and a half or 11 miles. “It’s open to everybody—students, people in the community, and we actually have a lot of people from other cities that come,” said Amber Meredith, public relations intern at Chewacla State Park. Meredith said she is hopeful large turnouts in the past will return this year.

CHRISTEN HARNED / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

Mix 96.7’s program director Donny Blankenship relaxes behind the mic. Blankenship also hosts the station’s weekday morning show from 6–10 a.m.

in 2009, and now I run the station,” Blankenship said. Blankenship graduated in August of that year, and, along with his role as Mix 96.7’s program director,

he now hosts the station’s morning show. His job combines his interest in

» See PEOPLE, A6

“Last year we had about 700 people that came, so hopefully we will have just as many people this year or even more,” she said. Whether or not a person chooses to get healthy by running a race, Mary Hanna, telehealth RN at East Alabama Medical Center, said “everyone should be aware and concerned about heart disease.” Hanna said she believes all people will be affected in some way by heart disease. “I daresay that everyone will either have heart disease, be at risk for heart disease or know someone with heart disease,” she said. Will Golden, a 23-year-old pro golfer and Auburn resident, falls into the first category. “When I was born, (doctors) realized I had some heart problems and they immediately sent me to UAB for testing,” Golden said. “I was born with a congenital heart disease called Tetralogy of Fallot.” Twenty-three years, seven surgeries and four pacemakers later, Golden said he is feeling “better than ever” given the circumstances. “Having this heart disease and the complete heart block definitely makes my cardiac output less efficient,” he said. “Running for a long period of time is very tough, but since I

» See HEART, A6

Punxsutawney Phil continues making predictions Alison McFerrin

REBECCA CROOMES / PHOTO EDITOR

COMMUNITY BEAT REPORTER

Groundhog info

When one furry rodent pokes his head out of his burrow, he enters a spotlight of media attention as he decides whether winter is over. His name is Punxsutawney Phil, and he is the star of Groundhog Day. According to groundhog.org, the tradition of Groundhog Day may come from Candlemas, a Christian holiday in early Europe brought by Germans to Philadelphia. An old English saying indicates: “If Candlemas be fair and bright, Come Winter, have another flight; If Candlemas brings clouds and rain, Go Winter, and come not again.” Groundhog Day was first observed in America in the 1800s. Groundhog Day is made possible by a group of men known as the Groundhog Club’s Inner Circle. Known for their black tuxedos and top hats, the Inner Circle not only carries on the holiday’s traditions and plans the events, but they also are solely responsible for the care of Phil. Phil comes out to look for his shad-

Groundhogs typically live 6–8 years. Punxsutawney Phil folklore suggests that Phil drinks a magic elixir every summer that gives him seven more years of life and weather predictions.

PHIL’S PREDICTIONS THE LAST 10 YEARS

ow and make his forecast Feb. 2 of each year. According to legend, if he sees his shadow, six more weeks of bad weather will follow. If he doesn’t see his shadow, spring will come early. Phil makes his annual prediction from Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Penn. According to the Stormfax weather almanac, he is correct 39 percent of the time. Gates open at 3:00 a.m. and Phil’s prognostication is set for daybreak, approximately 7:30 a.m. Celebrations start at midnight and include hot chocolate and cookies until noon. Since the 1993 release of the popular movie “Groundhog Day” starring Bill Murray, crowds of up to 30,000 people have turned out to celebrate.

2011: Did not see his shadow, reporting an early spring 2010: Saw his shadow 2009: Saw his shadow 2008: Saw his shadow 2007: Did not see his shadow; the morning was cloudy with light flurries. 2006: Saw his shadow 2005: Saw his shadow 2004: Saw his shadow 2003: Saw his shadow as Pennsylvania’s newly elected Gov. Ed Rendell looked on from Gobbler’s Knob. 2002: Saw his shadow at the largest event in 116-year history with an estimated 30,000 people celebrating.

AS REPORTED BY GROUNDHOG.ORG

Community A6

The Auburn Plainsman

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Workshop to provide magic of fiction writing Andrew Yawn WRITER

What started 10 years ago in the meeting room of a Bruno’s Supermarket has become a monthly meeting of eating, drinking, laughing, remembering and occasional writing for the women of the Mystic Order of East Alabama Fiction Writers. There are no crystal balls, tarot cards or magic carpets here, just a group of women who share the same passion for creation and expression. The group, referred to as the Mystics, consists of six female writers and artists: Marian Carcache, Judith Nunn, Mary Dansak, Joanne Camp, Margee Bright-Ragland and Gail Langley, and together they will be holding a writing workshop at the Auburn Public Library Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. Topics for the free, one-hour seminar will include the intricacies of dialogue, illustrations, finding one’s voice and the importance of detail and rewriting, among other things. The group aims to educate the community about the nuances of fiction writing while remaining entertaining. “(The nuances of fiction) sound so boring,” said Langley, consensus queen of the Mystics and an estate sale antique dealer. “I’m going to be talking about sex.” The group will also provide food and read excerpts from its new book, which is currently untitled and scheduled to be released in May. It consists of fictional stories with accom-

panying fictionalized recipes. “We’re telling anecdotes, most based on some degree of truth and fictionalized a bit, followed by a recipe that connects tangentially to the story,” said Carcache, English instructor at Auburn. Two notable recipes are the velociraptor medallions and the four-and-twenty blackbird pie. “Some of the selections we’re serving are from our book in May,” Langley said. “Not the velociraptor medallions, but some of the others.” The Mystics said their rise to local fame was the product of perseverance and exposure. The group’s first book, “Be the Flame,” is a collection of short stories and poems from all the women. The book is divided by author with each of the women’s chapters preceded by a representation of their “mystic self ” drawn by illustrator BrightRagland, the “Mystic Illuminator.” The illustrations are meant to capture the essence of each member in a caricature-esque portrait. Langley, for instance, the founder of the group, was crowned the “Queen Mystic” while Camp, a defense attorney, was ruled the “Defender Mystic.” A group of characters as engaging as those in their books, the Mystics are proud of their perspective and writers-bycommittee approach that has developed a local following. “People started saying

CONTRIBUTED

From left: Marian Carcache, Judith Nunn, Mary Dansak, Joanne Camp, Margee Bright-Ragland and Gail Langley, the Mystic Order of East Alabama Fiction Writers, will hold a one-hour writing workshop Feb. 7 at the Auburn Public Library.

things like, ’Can we get on your email address list so we can come to your next reading?’” Carcache said. Numerous fans have requested to be the seventh member of the Order, Carcache said. “We just kept writing,” Carcache said. “We started having public readings, and people actually came to them and … we started getting a big head.” Their first readings were held in the Rattling Gourd Gal-

HEART

Fast Facts

» From A5

Time and Place: 124 Shell Toomer Parkway Registration begins at 6:15 a.m. 10K run begins at 7:30 a.m. One-mile run begins at 8:00 a.m.

CHEWACLA STATE PARK 23RD ANNUAL LOVE YOUR HEART RUN & 5TH ANNUAL CRANK YOUR HEART RIDE FEB. 18

Shuttle: Shuttle to the race’s start Shuttle begins at 6:00 a.m. Last shuttle runs at 7:30 a.m.

you say

Goodbye... we

say

Hello

children’s books, and honing one’s skills is what it’s all about,” said Judy Lechner, a retired children’s literature professor at Auburn. The Mystics said they want to expand the Auburn writing community. “Everyone knows Auburn for their football team,” BrightRagland said. “We would like to be recognized as a town for the fine arts.” To Langley, writers and artists in Auburn should be as

lery in Loachapoka. Now, the Mystics travel the South and have been asked to make appearances as far away as Tennessee. The Mystics said the love of expression is the reason for the group’s activities. “We do these readings for free,” Langley said. “As a matter of fact they’ve probably cost us money.” Many local authors are taking interest in the workshop. “I’m interested in writing

was a teenager I have been training to improve all of that. “It will never be awesome or normal like other people who are in good shape, but I am able to stay in good enough shape for golf.” Hanna said modifiable risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, physical inactivity and obesity. She said it’s important to address these modifiable risk factors through lifestyle changes and talking with a physician. If necessary, medication can be taken to prevent heart disease or, as in Golden’s case, to limit its side effects. The Love Your Heart Run and Crank Your Heart Ride are two ways to begin addressing these modifiable risk factors. Additionally, proceeds from the two events will benefit the local community. “It’s put on by the Exceptional Outreach Organization, which is a nonprofit or-

“

PEOPLE

(My heart) will never be awesome or normal like other people who are in good shape, but I am able to stay in good enough shape for golf.” —Will Golden PROFESSIONAL GOLFER AND AUBURN RESIDENT

ganization in Auburn made up of board members,” Meredith said. “Basically the whole thing they do as a foundation is raise money to put toward programs for children and adults with special needs in Lee County, like Best Buddies of Auburn University and Lee County Special Olympics.” Registration begins at 6:15 a.m. the day of the race, but online registration is also available at loveyourheartrun.com. Those who register by Feb. 3 will receive a $5 discount from the full $25 fee.

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lauded as the athletes whose stars line the streets downtown. “We want to be on the Tiger Walk,” she said. “We want a star downtown in front of Toomer’s.” For now, the Mystics will settle for helping fellow writers. “Everyone has a story … and if you can work with what makes it interesting then it makes your story very readable,” Langley said.

» From A5

music with his likability and communication skills. Blankenship’s passion for music extends beyond his job and is what he spends most of his free time enjoying. “I love music,” he said. “I like to travel out of town to music festivals and concerts. I save up all my off-days for that.” Among his other interests are sports, especially football, and just enjoying life. “I laugh a lot,” Blankenship said, “and I’m easy to make laugh.” Blankenship said he is grateful to have a job where he can be in the music business and work with people that he gets along with well. “We’re all friends outside of work,” Blankenship said of his co-workers. “We got a really great opportunity.” Parker Tant, host of Mix 96.7’s afternoon show, agrees. “We all work really well together. It’s always fun,” said Tant, who calls himself the Ryan Seacrest of Auburn and whose show comes on immediately after Bankenship’s. Tant said that Blankenship is “crazy,” calling him a fun and interesting guy. Tant also said the way Blankenship does his show is unique. Van Riggs, the station’s director of operations, said “there’s never a dull moment” when working with Blankenship. Riggs also had high praise for Blankenship as a person and said he is “fun, outgoing and a great guy to work with.” Blankenship said his job allows him to feel connected to the community and meet people that he otherwise wouldn’t. “Because we are a local content radio station, I get to meet people involved in making decisions like the mayor and the city council,” Blankenship said. Blakenship said he’s often the first person community leaders come to with information. “I also get to meet people who are setting up events and doing positive things in the community because they come to me first to get the information out.” Blankenship can be heard weekdays on the Mix 96.7 morning show from 6–10 a.m.

Opinions Thursday, February 2, 2012

A7 www.theplainsman.com

Community

Our View

Legalized marijuana not worth the risk

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“

“This is not a recreational marijuana legalizing bill at all. It’s strictly for medicinal purposes and will be closely monitored by the health department and law enforcement.” —K. L. Brown R–Calhoun

THE PLAINSMAN POLL Vote at theplainsman.com

Rebecca Croomes PHOTO@ THEPLAINSMAN.COM

You can’t look me straight in the eye and tell me weed is “no big deal.” You can’t, because all I can think of is walking down a hall, looking at all the other families with their arms full of gifts—simple things like new underwear, cookies or a book from home that hasn’t been read in a long time. In other narratives like this people often say, “I don’t know how we came to this point,” or ask “How could we end up here?” But as I glanced around at the people and the building, which tried hard not to be, but so obviously was a rehab clinic, I didn’t pretend to be stupid. It doesn’t make me feel better. Their eyes are tired. Tired from long nights of crying, worrying or the anticipation of the return of somebody they thought had all but died a long time ago. At the end of the hall, there’s a table. None of the gifts are wrapped, because they would have to be opened by the wrong person anyway. Sterile, gloved hands search for contraband: stuff that can be torn apart and used by the patients to harm themselves, or get high. Why anyone would think to bring those things is beyond me. After checking in we walk through some double doors into the cafeteria. There were drink machines, potted plants, plenty of natural light coming through the windows—the only stark reminder of where you are is a giant poster about “The Twelve Steps” screwed into the wall. People shuffle in and out. There’s more crying, hugging and awkward pauses, because no one really knows what to say. We end up making small talk with someone we love. As we sit, I look around some more at the other people. They huddle around their table and chit-chat. We talk about everything else except the reason we came to see him. We talk about what I’m doing in school, what the soccer team looks like this year. The closest we come to discussing it is when we ask him how he’s feeling, how the group sessions are going, how long he has to keep going to meetings once he leaves. Outside it was sunny, but the mood was no different. We try to stay under a shady tree and talk about all the things there are to do outdoors. He asks if we can bring his disc golf bag and some cigarettes next time. As we get ready to leave I’m told not to look at him or wave goodbye— some rule they told us that I still don’t understand—but I can’t help myself. We see him smoking on the porch. He waves and so do I, only to have my hand yanked back down. Years have passed and I consider myself lucky to have come away from that place without having lost him when some of the other people there that day were not as fortunate. Maybe you can control smoking marijuana. Maybe terminally ill people need it to ease their pain. I don’t buy the legalization arguments enough to let it slide for the sake of any one person who decides to destroy their life. Whenever I hear about people getting into crazy things just because they were high out of their gourd, my stomach churns. I just want to sit down and tell them they don’t need it. People are worth so much more than they give themselves credit for, but they let themselves go to waste while their friends and family stand around and watch.

Medical marijuana a first step toward legalization Rep. K. L. Brown, of Calhoun County, has filed legislation into the Alabama House of Representatives that would make medical marijuana legal. As reported by the Aniston Star, Ron Crumpton, co-president and executive director of the Alabama Medical Marijuana Coalition, is optimistic about the legislation’s chances. “I don’t think it will be that much of an uphill battle,” Crumpton said. “Many of the Republicans who took over the Legislature in the last election are younger guys—between 30 and 45— who don’t associate the same stigma with marijuana that older people … do.” We’re pleased to see Brown is giving Alabama another chance to take a step forward on the road of personal responsibility. We’ve lived for too long in a state and nation governed by people who believe they know better than we how to run our lives. The people we send to Montgomery and Washington are our

representatives. We are the check of their power and behavior, not the other way around. We’re not as optimistic as Crumpton the legislation will receive the support it deserves, but we still hope the state will make the right decision. Medical marijuana has been shown to alleviate some of the painful symptoms of glaucoma, and it has been proven to help with the loss of appetite and nausea that come with chemotherapy. While we do support this legislation, we believe it’s part of a different approach to the full legalization of marijuana. Medical benefits aside, most medical marijuana legislation has been passed as a foot-in-the-door approach to full legalization. Many lawmakers and activists are aware that changing the public’s mind about marijuana will require baby steps because of the stigma associated with it. Americans, especially older Americans, have become rooted

in their opposition to the plant. For a long time it’s been a foreign and far away menace to their society. Marijuana was the evil that crept into your neighborhood and stirred up trouble. We believe its medical legalization will slowly change the minds of this demographic. It won’t happen quickly or easily, but it will happen. They’ll have family members, friends or neighbors who are prescribed the medication, and they’ll notice that they didn’t drop dead or commit robbery. Beyond everything on the scale of lunacy is the billions upon billions of dollars that have been used to fund the war on drugs. Our nation existed for some time before the government felt compelled to march from Washington and save everyone from themselves—using our money to do it, of course. That money would have been better used if it sat in the treasury and moldered. We hope Alabama lawmakers will fulfill their duties as representatives of free, thinking people.

In the editorial “SOPA teaches valuable lessons about polticians“ in the Jan. 26 issue of The Auburn Plainsman, we wrote that Sen. Jeff Sessions supported the Protect IP Act. This was not the case. He joined with other senators in opposition to the bill Jan. 13. We regret the error.

Get involved while you still can Melody Kitchens ONLINE@ THEPLAINSMAN. COM

I hate to remind you, but you only have about four years of “free” time before your future career. Make the most of it. This may seem understood, but it’s too easy to get caught up in preparing for your career. Although that may be the most important, don’t forget about the things you love to do outside your major. The beauty of attending a large University like Auburn means there are ample things to do that might interest you, most of them not costing you anything but some extra time. For example, if you love music,

try your hand at spinning your own radio show. WEGL opens its doors to all students who love their music and want to spread it throughout Auburn’s airwaves. Ever read your “This Week at AU” emails? They’re filled with significant happenings around campus, from upcoming speakers to UPC and athletic events. There are generous amounts of extracurricular clubs on campus too, like the hovercraft team, formula SAE racingteam, unmanned aerial vehicles club, and intramurals like the ice hockey team, badminton club, and ultimate frisbee team. And of course, if you enjoy writing, try volunteering for the Plainsman. Our staff consists of several different majors, not just journalism. If you want your voice to be heard among your fellow students, write a guest column for

this Opinions page. The people you may meet outside your major could end up leading you into something that may further your future career. I’ve met some of the most interesting people through interviewing for the Plainsman. Never underestimate who you will meet while participating in the things you love to do. For example, volunteer through IMPACT, Boys and Girls Club, Best Buddies and Project Uplift to make a difference in the community while you’re in school. International Student Organization frequently has dinners and activities, and you don’t have to be from outside the country to attend and learn about new cultures. Whatever it is you love to do, take some extra time to do it. Enjoy your time here, and make your mark doing it.

Your view: Romney waffling on bailouts and TARP Mitt Romney continues to waver in economic posture. Like any capitalist, he expresses frustration over tight federal regulations, annual trillion dollar deficits, the need for international commerce and how “crony capitalism” is ruining our nation. Romney specifically said, “If we want to get America going again, you got to stop the spread of crony capitalism,” at the South Carolina Republican debate Jan. 19. In spite of his said opposition, Romney flip-flops in his economic ideology. Romney supported big banks and Wall Street government bailouts through advocating the TARP bill. This Romney-endorsed TARP bill gave rise to both the TEA party and Occupy Wall Street movements. TARP was pushed by former Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson in order to pump money into numerous big banks, from Goldman Sachs to JP Morgan. In all, $700 billion was pumped into nine different banks in one day under President Bush. Knowing that easy money misaligns incentives, some of the banks didn’t want the bailout. In short, easymoney doesn’t consider what firms should get based on productiveness. Therefore, it doesn’t matter whether banks do a good job; they will get paid. It is also important to note that banks get the inflation discount. Once this new money is spent, prices adjust and common Americans pay the inflation tax, or inflated prices, on top of the $700 billion. When asked about TARP in a Nov. 21, 2011 interview with Sean Hannity Romney said, “I believe ... had president Bush and Secretary Paulson not stepped in in such an aggressive way that we would’ve had a complete collapse ... of all the money centered

» See ROMNEY, A8

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The Auburn Plainsman welcomes letters from students as well as from faculty, administrators, alumni and those not affiliated with the University. Letters must be submitted before 4:30 p.m. on the Monday for publication. Letters must include the author’s name, address and phone number for verification, though the name of the author may be withheld upon request. Submission may be edited for grammar and/or length.

The opinions of The Auburn Plainsman staff are restricted to these pages. These unsigned editorials are the majority opinion of the 9-member editorial board and are the official opinion of the newspaper. The opinions expressed in columns and letters represent the views and opinions of their individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the Auburn University student body, faculty, administration or Board of Trustees.

Opinions A8

The Auburn Plainsman

Your view: Gays still facing injustice A few weeks ago in the Opinions section, it was said that, “The injustice of the past is gone. There is no discrimination that’s enforced legally.” Even though this was written with racial discrimination in mind, it is naïve to say legally-enforced discrimination no longer exists. Discrimination against sexuality is still rampant – the fight for marriage equality is huge and isn’t getting enough attention in the South. In the United States there are six states which allow same-sex marriage – only six. There are eighteen which do not recognize any kind of same-sex union, and Alabama is one of them. Eighteen states where you and your fiancé couldn’t get married and wouldn’t receive legal benefits of any kind of union. Only six states where you could receive a marriage certificate with benefits. Seems pretty unfair, doesn’t it? There is no reason why same-sex marriage should

ROMNEY » From A7

banks.” Hannity reinforced Romney about TARP by stating, “Well, most people did support it.” In the same interview Romney claimed to have never supported a single stimulus package. However, on CNN’s Late Edition with Wolf Blitzer, Jan. 4, 2009, Blitzer reported that President Obama was “talking about a $750 billion economic stimulus package. He wants it to be passed as soon as possible. It’s unclear if whether it can be passed before he’s inaugurated on Jan. 20. What do

not be legal. Why should someone be forced to argue about love or prove how valid their emotions are? Did we as a nation vote for heterosexual marriage? No, we certainly did not. Therefore, I don’t understand why samesex marriage is even in question. It’s a right. There isn’t a defining line between a gay person, a straight person, a bisexual person—someone may have a different sexuality than you, but you probably still share the same hopes and fears. We’re all human. We must do something about this close-minded mentality. If we, the new generation, stay silent, nothing will change. The gay rights movement is our Civil Rights movement. Until it is legal in every state for people of all sexualities to be married and be given the same adoption rights there will still be discrimination in America.

An article was published in The Plainsman about SOPA and PIPA. It stated they had been shelved and from the way the article was written it almost seemed to display the fact that the threat was over from these bills, but it is far from that. Currently there is a trade

Rachel Davis freshman, psychology

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their mind on. Romney should know that government intervention in the economy is not capitalism. As MTV’s John Papola said, “Capitalism is about profit and loss. If you bailout the losers, there’s no end to the cost.” Essentially, inflation taxes the future. Please, take the proper time in picking your next candidate. Do some research and know that capitalism is a tool that rewards us for serving each other. Eric Phillips senior, psychology coordinator, Auburn for Ron Paul

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agreement being negotiated by several countries called the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement. This agreement is similar to SOPA and PIPA in that it is attempting to regulate the Internet, except this time on an international level. If this trade agreement is signed it could end up being

National Blood Donor Month is over, but we still need blood! After reading articles about the recent tornadoes and blood shortage it saddens me that we aren’t helping out more. While we seem to be doing a good job of donating clothes, food, etc; the most important thing to donate is blood. I know some people can’t donate, but for the people who can—why aren’t they? Ameri-

can Red Cross put together the top 10 reasons people don’t donate blood, and most of them are pretty poor excuses. “I don’t like needles.” I think these people should try putting themselves in the other person’s shoes—the person in need of the blood. Giving blood (the actual donation part) only takes about 5 minutes. Anyone can feel uncomfortable for 5 minutes to save someone’s life. “I am too busy.” While the

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more devestating than what SOPA or PIPA could have done. I am writing this to you today so that hopefully you can alert the readers that the fight to maintain Internet freedom is not over, and action still needs to be ta ken. A petition is currently being signed on whitehouse.gov.

If an awareness is brought to this we may be able to have as much an influence as we did in the SOPA/PIPA issue. ACTA is a direct violation of our Constitution and should be brought to the citizens’ attention. Leigh Smith senior, political science

Your view: Low turnout leaves demand for blood high after finish of NBDM

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cy pumped into new businesses and programs. This caused further erosion to the dollar via inflation and deepened the recession. Effectively, this stimulus took money from constituents and put in into the hands of lobbying businessmen, hence the term crony capitalism. Romney is known for flipflopping, but this is something far beyond a simple change of heart. It’s not like he’s antiRonald Reagan one year and then pro-Reagan the next. No, crony capitalism detrimentally affects the lives of each American and is not an issue one can capriciously change

Your view: ACTA worse than SOPA, PIPA

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you think about this proposal?” Romney replied, “Well, I frankly wish that the last Congress (had) dealt with the stimulus issue and that the president could have signed that before leaving office. I think there is need for economic stimulus.” Obama’s stimulus proved to be the same thing as the TARP bailouts all over again. At the tip of the iceberg, the stimulus printed money to “stimulate” the economy by giving low interest rate loans to companies. Paying for Solyndra’s loan cost the American taxpayers $535 million along with copious amounts of new curren-

Thursday, February 2, 2012

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whole process takes about an hour, that is still not too much time to sacrifice to save lives. The last reason I found absurd: “No one ever asked me to give blood.” I am asking you now. Cancer patients, transplant patients, people in accidents, people hurt from tornadoes, and many more people need blood, all the time. According to the Association of Donor Recruitment Professionals, “Blood is traditionally in short supply during

the winter months due to the holidays, travel schedules, inclement weather and illness. January has been designated as National Blood Donor Month to encourage donors to give blood.” It may be uncomfortable, but not for long. You may be busy, but not too busy. You may not have been asked, but now you have. Maggie Kessler Realtor, Cahaba Real Estate

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Sports Thursday, February 2, 2012

Tanner gives lift to Tigers » Page B4

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B1 Sports

COURTESY OF AUBURN CAMPUS RECREATION

Construction is underway at the site of the Recreation and Wellness Center across the street from Auburn Arena. The new center is expected to open in late spring 2013, replacing the Student Activities Center.

New facility building its own identity A decade-long process is coming to fruition with the rapid construction of the new Recreation and Wellness Center Coleman McDowell SPORTS EDITOR

The 2012 graduating class of Auburn University has been fortunate to attend during a time of growth on campus. From a new student union, oncampus living facility and engineering building to a state-of-the-art basketball arena, the class has seen many improvements. One thing they won’t see, but will have helped pay for, however, is the new Recreation and Wellness Center that will replace the Student Activities Center. The new facility is scheduled for completion in late spring 2013, and the construction has made immense strides since ground was broken April 15 of last year. The new facility, however, is not “the new Student Act,” said intramural coordinator Nicholas Head. “With everything that is going into the Recreation and Wellness Center, we don’t want to associate it with the Student Act,” he said. “That’s the truth. It’s totally a different building.”

VOTING PROCESS

Students had already voted for a new facility when Head came to Auburn in 2002. “This has been a process much longer than SGA getting involved in ’08 and ’09,” he said. “We’ve talked for years, for years about trying to get

a new wellness center on the ballot, so it’s one of things that’s been a long time in the making, and it’s finally paid off.” Head said Student Government was invaluable in getting the ball rolling on the ballot referendum and voting in the past five years. “When you have folks like Lauren Hayes, who really is the original voice behind this, to come in and say, ‘I work out in this current facility, and I may never see a new facility, but this is something our students will have to have,’” Head said, “and she handed it off to Jacob Watkins, and he handed it off to Kirk Sasser, and he’s handed it off to someone else—they’ve literally gone right down the line.” Once the vote was on the ballot, Campus Recreation wanted students to be heard, regardless of the outcome. “We got the feedback and 76 percent of the vote said yes,” Head said. “We knew that was something we could take off and run with to the board and say this isn’t something we’re fighting for; this is something the students are fighting for. “And those numbers, 76 percent, that’s a huge number for people to vote yes on. And especially when people knew they would be increasing their fees from $7.50 a semester to $200.” Scott Harper, associate director of

recreational facilities, said the vote was “very unselfish of the Auburn students.” Many voters in 2009 might have graduated or are about to graduate and will never step foot in the new facility, but Head said that class realized it could make an impact on Auburn’s student body for years to come. “A lot of folks that voted in 2009, they’re probably getting a diploma this year,” Head said. “It would be easy for people to say, ‘Heck no, you’re not going to increase my fees $150, and I’m never going to be able to see a building.’ But they also did it with the understanding that they had to privilege of getting the new Student Center when the people before them only had Foy. “You saw people say, ‘I’ve been in the Student Act, and it is not a fun facility. And what they’re talking about adding is going to make a difference in the next four to eight years of a student’s life.’” Students can view a live webcam of the construction at auburn.edu/studentaffairs/campusrec to see their dollars in action and keep up with the progress.

COURTESY OF AUBURN CAMPUS RECREATION

A rendered illustration of the completed facility and surrounding green space

FUNDING

“It is ( funded) 100 percent through the students,” Harper said. “It was

» See CONSTRUCTION, B2

REBECCA CROOMES / PHOTO EDITOR

Six regulation-size basketball courts will be one of many features in the new facility.

Gymnastics becomes weekend hit Coleman McDowell SPORTS EDITOR

COURTESY OF TODD VAN EMST

Cheering students show their support for Auburn gymnastics at Friday’s meet against the University of Alabama.

Students are used to piling into the stadium for the Auburn vs. Alabama football game, but Friday, students packed the Auburn Arena for the Iron Bowl gymnastics style. Over 2,600 students were in attendance and helped set a new Auburn Arena record for gymnastics with a total attendance of 7,299. Coach Jeff Graba said Auburn Arena gives the team numerous advantages. “First off, our girls take an enormous amount of energy from the crowd,” Graba said. “It means something in football to have the crowd, and it definitely means something in gymnastics.” Graba also said one of the keys to a growing number of fans is giving the fans an exciting meet to watch. “I also think they were able to wit-

ness what college gymnastics can really be about,” he said. “It can be an exciting event. It can be a nailbiter, which it was. It’s an wholesome environment. You have the students and you can have families and everyone can get involved.” Graba said the atmosphere also helps attract new players. “It helps in recruiting. Athletes want to go compete in front of big crowds, and this puts us top-five in the country,” he said. “The fact that we can show them a sold-out arena and that energy, that just helps us out immensely.” Graba has helped generate a buzz around the program that has been lacking. “That’s what we want to create,” Graba said. “You can get in and get out, it’s an hour and a half, maybe an hour forty-five, and it’s a great event. “That’s we’re trying to bring to the

program.” Sophomore Abbey Habicht said she was amazed the moment she walked into the arena and saw the crowd. “It’s really awesome when you first run out and see the seats filled up and everyone is out there,” Habicht said. “It’s not about you; it’s just about everyone at that point. It was really cool to see that they opened up the top section at the Alabama meet because they had never planned to do that for gymnastic meets.” Graba said one of his goals is to make Auburn gymnastics a community event. “First, it’s coaching and recruiting and trying to move up in the SEC and move up in the nation as far as rankings and all that—all that is obvious,” Graba said. “The other stuff is all the

» See GYMNASTICS, B2

Sports B2

The Auburn Plainsman

CONSTRUCTION » From B1

voted on to pay for the building, and that’s exactly what they’re going to do. It’s going to take care of the building costs and programming money in there as well.” Student fees no longer fund the Student Act. “Students are wondering where their money is going now; it’s not going to the Student Act,” Harper said. “It’s going straight to that building. When we say that students are now paying $7.50 and now they’re paying $200, that money is going to build the building.”

FUTURE OF COLISEUM

Much speculation has been made among students regarding the future of Beard-Eaves Memorial Coliseum. It is currently home to various offices that have to be relocated before the building can come down. Harper said the plan is to tear down the coliseum and use the area for a green space adjacent to the Wellness Facility and a parking deck on the south end of the lot.

CURRENT UPGRADES

Harper said students who are graduating could possibly use the new facility, but a decision has not been made. “As of the moment, it is loose discussion,” Harper said. “We’re trying to come up with something that would be a good way for the students to have access to it. “It wouldn’t be a long-term thing because it’s designed for the Auburn students, not for Auburn alumni, but being able to have the option that if you helped pay for it to have some kind of access to it. But that’s going to take us getting together and seeing what that will be.” In response to this uncertainty, Campus Recreation has expanded its offerings in the past three years. “We’ve gone from seven to

“

With everything that is going into the Recreation and Wellness Center, we don’t want to associate it with the Student Act. That’s the truth. It’s totally a different building.” —Nicholas Head INTRAMURAL COORDINATOR

70 group fitness classes,” Head said. “That’s something we really put on the forefront: you know what, they may not be able to see the new facility, but let’s give them everything we can in the current facility with every measure taken to make sure they enjoy their experience. “When you talk about 70 group fitness classes when three years before that you only offered seven, that’s a huge jump in only three years. “We’re saying you might not see it right away, but we’re doing everything we can in this current facility, even with all the obstacles, to give you what you want.”

INTRAMURAL SPORTS

Head believes the new facility will expand the boundaries for intramural sports on campus. He said nontraditional games such as “intramural battleship” will be possible without resorting to other sites on campus. “It will be an opportunity to promote more sports,” Head said. “We’re not going have a set thing, like we can only play basketball in here. It’s going to be what can’t we do, and I think that’s the biggest thing. I think the possibilities are endless of how this will benefit intramural sports.” With additions such as

GYMNASTICS

three rock walls and outdoor equipment rental, new programs will be implemented to support those features. “We don’t have a climbing crew, we don’t have an outdoor crew, but this department will establish those programs,” Head said. “And I think that’s what important to realize: this building is opening up a multitude of opportunity for things we’ve never even thought about having.” The Wellness Center will also bring back sports that had fallen by the wayside. “We used to have intramural racquetball tournaments, but we haven’t been able to do that for a number of years because we’ve had to close down those courts,” Head said. “With the new building, we’re going to get some things back that we used to do and have some new things that we’ve never had before.”

» From B1

other community stuff just to make people aware of us, because once you show up I think you’ll want to come back.” Before coming to Auburn last season, Graba coached at Utah, one of the premier gymnastic programs in the country. “(The atmospehre is) just different,” Graba said. “I think you can use some of the same viewpoints. At Utah, we’ll put 15,000 people in the stands, but I actually like this environment more. The students are right on top of us, and they’re into it. “What you saw last Friday was probably one of the best enviroments in college gymnastics. What I want the mission of this community to be, especially on campus, is that it’s the thing to do, that it’s fun. We’re going to do our best to beat everybody that comes in here, and if we can’t beat them, we’re going to score real high and keep it close. We need to the fans to show up and help us.” Freshman Megan Walker said the team feeds off the crowd’s energy. “When we’re competing in front of 7,300 people, everything you love about gymnastics comes out,” Walker said. “You know those people are there supporting you and our team and what many of us have been doing for 16 years. It’s the most exhilarating feeling. “ Even with a young team, Graba is proud of the performance this season. “We feel we’ve made a lot of strides,” he said. “Basically half our routines are coming from people with one year or less experience. And those two teams that we took to the wire are real top-heavy. Obviously Alabama knows how to win things—they won the national championship last

IS BIGGER BETTER?

Harper said Auburn never planned to compete with other universities on size, instead opting for a design that features unique amenities exclusive to schools in the Southeast and to Auburn. “We weren’t wanting to be the biggest,” Harper said. “That wasn’t our goal. “As far as the climbing wall, it’s going to be a lot higher than the one at Alabama. A third of a mile on the indoor track—I don’t know of another track anywhere that’s that big. It’s got a corkscrew design; it’s going to be the first one to do that … This one is going to be multi-level, so it’s going to be very unique. There will be things in the facility that a lot of people do not have, and some things that no one has.” Harper said the new Recreation and Wellness Center isn’t like any other building. Rather, it’s specifically tailored to Auburn students. “It’s not a matter of modeling it after any one facility; it’s what Auburn students want, and that’s what we got.”

UPC

Thursday, February 2, 2012

REBECCA CROOMES / PHOTO EDITOR

Senior Kendall Swartz competes on bars against Alabama.

COURTESY OF TODD VAN EMST

A total of 7,299 attended Friday’s meet, a record for Auburn Arena.

year—and Georgia went for five in a row at one point.” Graba has seen the improvement from the team this season, and he knows the young members on his squad will only continue to build confidence. “To me, it shows that we’re

moving up. We’re still so young, but it shows the future is so bright for us. That’s what I’m excited about … It gives us a lot of motivation. “We know the better we perform on Friday night, the more reason people will have to keep showing up. “

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Sports B3

The Auburn Plainsman

Shields’ personality livens team spirits Abigail O’Brien Writer

Kylie Shields seems to use laughter as punctuation to every sentence. “It’s really fun just flying around in the air,” said Shields, senior who competes in allaround dynamic gymnastics. “That’s why I originally started because it was like the closest thing to simulating flying in the air.” The personality of the 5-foot-2-inch gymnast may be welcoming and warm, but the Mahopac, N.Y., native knows how to succeed on the gymnastics floor. Shields was best all-around at the team’s meet against Georgia Jan. 20 and continues

to lead the team as the team speaker and role model. Freshman Megan Walker described how the senior made her feel welcome when she recently joined the team. “With Kylie, your first day here, all of us as freshman, you’re a friend,” Walker said. “You never have to go through that awkward, get-to-knowyou stage because she just pretty much automatically understands you.” Shields has lived and breathed gymnastics since she was 4. She originally started because she wanted to follow in the steps of her older sister, Allison. “I had all this energy and my

mom’s like, ‘You know what? Go!’” Shields said. “And so I went in the gym, and it was just this bug that caught onto me, and I didn’t want to let go.” The bug turned out to be a lifelong passion, as Shields decided to make it her focus and continue in college. Even though gymnastics is a demanding sport, Shields said she wouldn’t give up the experience for anything. “It’s those moments,” Shields said, “that stuck landing, the eruption of the crowd when you do a great routine and just the pride that I feel in knowing that I can flip two times before I touch the ground.” Shields said it’s important

for her to be consistent with her teammates on and off the floor. “It’s about trying to bring out that full potential in other people, letting them know that you care about them,” she said. Despite the attention, Shields said it’s important to be genuine and team focused “because other people’s lives are just as important as mine.” Coach Jeff Graba said Shields continues to display consistency on and off the floor. “On the floor, she’s a tremendous competitor,” Graba said. “She’s very focused. She’s very aggressive about her gymnastics.” The senior still has another

Christen Harned / assistant photo editor

Senior Kylie Shields won best all-around for her preformance in the Georgia meet Jan. 21.

year to enjoy the Auburn Arena, as she’s staying a fifth year to finish her degree in health promotion. However, this year is the last she is eligible to compete for Auburn.

Shields said she tries to live by the same advice she gives to younger dreamers. “Work hard, stay focused and do what you love,” she said.

Gymnastics experience provides path to Auburn Sydney Callis Writer

Before starting his freshman year at the University of Minnesota, Jeff Graba was faced with a decision that would shape his career: wrestling or gymnastics? “I had to make my mind up one way or the other, and I was loving gymnastics at the time so I stuck with that,” said Graba, Auburn’s gymnastics coach. Gymnastics requires total body control and refinement of technique, and after being advised by his high school wrestling coach to take up the sport to improve his wrestling, Graba enthusiastically immersed himself in it. “I was actually a relatively good wrestler, but my wrestling coach wanted me to go into dance or something to get better with footwork,” Graba said. “So, I went into gymnastics because it was way more fun than dance.” Graba’s wrestling skills improved right away because of the body control learned in gymnastics. However, Graba said he never reached a high level in gymnastics because it is a “building block sport” that requires a lot of time to be able to be competitive. While he didn’t excel as a gymnast, Graba took what he learned and applied it as a coach. Because females involved in the sport outnumber males, Graba realized job opportunities for men would be readily available. “There’s always a job for a guy in gymnastics because we do what’s called spotting,” Graba said. “That’s how I started out and one thing led to another and now, here I am.” Spotters are there to assist and to make sure the gym-

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Coach Jeff Graba has infused the Tigers’ roster with young talent, taking national powerhouses Georgia and Alabama to the limit this season.

nasts don’t injure themselves while practicing, and Graba said it’s one of his major roles as coach. “Spotting is an art in itself because you actually have to practice a lot to get the timing down,” Graba said. In 2006, in his first year at the University of Utah, Graba coached his first national champion, Kristina Baskett, to her first NCAA Championship appearance. “That was a huge milestone for me because it was my first national championship in college,” Graba said. “That first year at Utah had a lot of firsts for me in coaching.” Graba’s experience gives him a level of understanding with the gymnasts that makes him stand out as a great coach. “He can relate a lot to how he used to feel when he was a gymnast to how we’re feel-

ing now,” said Caryn Kadous, freshman in kinesiology. “He understands if you’re having a bad day that it’s just that day, and you’ll be able to do it again a different day.” His understanding of how to combine the mental and physical aspects of the sport creates a bond with each gymnast. “He knows how to work with you personally,” said Allyson Sandusky, senior in hotel and restaurant management. “If you’re someone that likes to move slow in routines, he knows that’s what you do.” His bond with his players shows in the records. In his first season here, Graba led the Auburn gymnastics team to its highest NCAA regional score since 2004. Friday, Auburn will travel to Fayetteville to take on Arkansas at 7 p.m.

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Sports B4

The Auburn Plainsman

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Rice finds niche as walk-on Coleman McDowell Sports editor

Courtesy of Missy Hazeldine

Sophomore guard/forward Tyrese Tanner attacks the basket against Purdue.

Tanner fights injuries, leads Tigers from bench Robert E. Lee Sports beat Reporter

Coach Donnie Quinn of Hoover High School described Tyrese Tanner’s state championship performance against Bob Jones in 2010 with one word: dominant. “She was the best player on our team,” Quinn said. “Although she didn’t really average that many points a game, and just the way we play no one really stars on our team, but when it was time to do something and we needed a basket it was always her that seemed to be the one that was getting it.” Tanner is in her second season with the Tigers after earning playing time her freshman year and learning under coach Nell Fortner. “She is a great motivator with her speeches,” Tanner said of Fortner. “I think just as always the coaches say go to practice like it’s a game and what you do in practice

is what you do in a game, and that’s how I look at it.” Tanner said although she was starting at the beginning of the season, she plays better off the bench. “I really enjoy playing, and every year so far I’ve had an injury. I’m just trying to stay healthy,” Tanner said. She said her ankle injury will not stop her from playing, which Quinn said is par for the course with Tanner. “Even when she had her knee injury, she had surgery, and the next day she shows up with this contraption on her leg and she’s trying to shoot,” Quinn said. “As far as hustle, she has never been one to take off even a day.” Quinn said Tanner shows the same determination during practice as she does in games. “She always held herself to a higher standard than a lot of kids do,” Quinn said. “We do sprints and that kind of stuff

and a lot of kids pace themselves. She would always be first, and really with her it was a matter of trying to keep her from getting hurt because she was diving for balls and diving in the bleachers and those types of things.” Tanner played in every game as a freshman at Auburn, scoring a season-high 15 points against Alabama and Chicago State. Tanner said she’s always looking for ways to be a better athlete. “I want to improve on my offensive game and being able to know when to take the best shot on the floor,” Tanner said. Quinn said Tanner remains competitive despite her injuries. “When she came back after surgery she couldn’t play, but looked at it as an opportunity to work on her shot, and it paid off,” Quinn said. “She’s in the top five hardest workers I’ve ever had.”

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Marquis Teague, Trae Golden and Dee Bost are among the SEC’s best point guards. Sophomore walk-on point guard T.J. Rice imitates them every day in practice. As a walk-on, Rice’s main responsibility for Auburn is being a member of the scout team, playing point guard and preparing the starters for what they will encounter their next game. Rice relishes the opportunity to emulate other point guards and uses the time spent watching film to his advantage. “I enjoy it,” Rice said. “It’s almost a good thing playing on scout the first couple years because you learn about other players and their tendencies. And when it’s my time, I’ll go out there and will know what to expect.” Born in Chicago, Rice moved to Georgia in August 2000 because of his father’s job change. He had never played basketball before the move, but began as soon as he got to the South. His decision to walk on at Auburn was fueled by childhood dreams. “I always had that dream as a kid to make it big,” he said. “I always had confidence in myself that I could do it, but I knew once I got here that I was going to work hard and accomplish that goal.” Rice might not get the publicity his other teammates receive, but that doesn’t mean he puts in any less time in the gym. Rice wakes up at 5:45 a.m. for an early morning weights session at 6:30 a.m. He takes anywhere from 12–15 credit hours each semester for his wireless engineering major, attending class from 8:00

Christen Harned / Assistant photo editor

Walk-on point guard T.J. Rice provides the starting five a look at the opposing point guards each week during scout team.

a.m. to 1:15 p.m. After a quick lunch, Rice heads to practice from 2–5 p.m. Rice stays balanced by adhering to a motto his parents instilled in him at a young age. “What my parents say: ‘School always come first,’” he said. “It comes before basketball. It’s great to play and do something you love, but you always need to look at the long term and what’s going to pay out in the long run. So that’s what always keeps me motivated—that if I work hard on and off the court I’ll always have different opportunities to look forward to.” A constant motivating tool for Rice is directly ahead of him on the depth chart. Junior point guard and fellow walk-on Josh Wallace was named Playmaker of the Year and won the Outstanding Defensive Player award for his play last season after starting a school-record 26 games as a walk-on. Rice can look to Wallace for inspiration from a fellow diminutive walk-on point guard who’s balancing engineering

and basketball. “It definitely does (motivate me),” Rice said. “It’s somebody that’s right in front of me that’s going through the same thing I’m going through. It is definitely a motivating factor.” Junior guard Noel Johnson said Rice is a big part of what Auburn does behind the scenes in preparation for opposing point guards. “T.J. is a big part of this team because day after day with the rough practices, he helps us out with the point guards,” Johnson said. Fellow walk-on Dylan Spencer, junior guard, said Rice knows his niche on the team. “As a walk-on, you have to define your role, and T.J. has done a really good job at that,” Spencer said. Rice carries a blue-collar approach with him each day, and he hopes to be rewarded for his hard work and be on the court with the players he now imitates in practice. “I come to work every day just hoping for my chance.”

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Intrigue Thursday, February 2, 2012

Clothing swap

Colored pants trend

» Page B7

» Page B8

www.theplainsman.com

B5 Intrigue

And the Oscar goes to… The Academy Awards nominees have just been announced. Tweet your pick for Best Picture to the @TheAUPlainsman #AUoscars and make your vote for people’s choice.

Intrigue editor Kate Jones and expert Emily Becker, senior in theatre mangagement and stage manager for the theatre department’s upcoming production of “Cabaret,” have made their picks for Best Picture. Take a look at the nominees and pick your winner!

K “I pick this movie because it has a strong cast and is a beautiful story. The book is amazing, and it’s a story on 9/11 that has been done tastefully.”

E “It’s just so different from everything else in the running. Of course, it’d be great if ‘The Help’ won because of Octavia being an Auburn alum, but I just think that ‘The Artist’ appeals because it shows how even silent films and black and white pictures can still entertain audiences.”

TV uses fear tactics John Holtrop WRITER

DANIELLE LOWE / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

Ezell’s Catfish Cabin, formerly located on South College Street, closed last year due to rising rent and lack of student interest, said director of operations Frank Cantrell.

South College restaurants starve Hayley Blair INTRIGUE BEAT REPORTER

The gutted remains of buildings on South College Street mark the graves of many unsuccessful restaurants. Frank Cantrell, director of operations at Ezell’s Catfish Cabin in Bessemer, said the effort to bring one of their restaurants to Auburn was unsuccessful for a number of reasons. “I think it has a lot to do with location,” Cantrell said. “When you’re outside the loop that goes around Auburn, it seems you don’t get the traffic that restaurants get in other places.” Rent increases because of recent

development around the South College area and a lack of student interest are two factors that contributed to the eventual close of Ezell’s, Cantrell said. “Students get up and go to school or somewhere, and they’ll eat on the way and not stop in at the restaurant on the South College end,” Cantrell said. “It seems like we’re not getting the repeat business there.” Veggies To Go on South College has had a different experience, however. Restaurant manager Lawrence Parker attributes the restaurant’s suc-

cess to its quick service, low prices and niche product of predominantly Southern cooking. “For the kids living off campus and weekend eating, it’s open at night and it’s real fast,” Parker said. “There’s not a 20-minute wait when you come in with a group. We can sit you down and have you gone in five minutes.” Catering to students and their lifestyles is important, Parker said, and when he went to Ezell’s he felt it wasn’t capable of accommodating its target market successfully. “I went to Ezell’s, and the quali-

“

“When you’re outside the loop that goes around Auburn, it seems you don’t get the traffic that restaurants get in other places.” —Frank Cantrell DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS, EZELL’S

» See RESTAURANTS, B6

Terror may be used by enemies during wartime, but fear can be as close as the nearest television. “The media doesn’t just straight up report facts, they create a narrative for people to pay attention to,” said William Ferris, professor of communication. “Sometimes the easiest way to do that is to create something scary.” A recent event used by many media outlets is the 2012 doomsday scenario. “Just wait for them to start exploiting 2012,” said Paul Simmons, senior in civil engineering. “Once the elections are over that is all we will hear about. They’ve been building this doomsday up for the past 20 years.” In July 2001, a string of shark attacks and sightings led to numerous stories that became known as the “Summer of the Shark.” “Statistically there were no more shark attacks that year than any other, but that’s not a story,” Ferris said. “They never said that shark attacks were on the rise, but they never said they weren’t.They were scaring the public to pay attention to the story.” Simmons said there is not enough news in the world for multiple 24hour news networks, and any bit of frightening news is blown out of proportion. A common way the media grabs public attention is with a story that has a close proximity to the reader, whether on an emotional or physical level. “Whether it’s news reporting or a movie, if you make people care about the person in danger it’s going to affect the audience,” Ferris said. “The more invested the movie, TV or news

» See FEAR, B6

Intrigue B6

The Auburn Plainsman

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Kerry’s recipe of the week

Pecan Crusted Dijon Chicken

Ingredients: 1 cup pecans, finely ground 1/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs 1/3 cup Dijon mustard 8 chicken tenders

Directions: Preheat oven to 400º F. Combine the ground pecans and the breadcrumbs in a bowl. Coat the chicken with the Dijon mustard and roll them in the pecan mixture. Place onto a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, turning them over halfway through. Serves: 4

Contributed by Kerry Fannon

DANIELLE LOWE / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

The Oaks opened last semester by Zaxby’s on South College and closed earlier this year. Previous restaurants that occupied this building were Burrito Palace, Bogey’s and Hooters.

RESTAURANT » From B5

Thrifted Urban Outfitters

Tara Jones

sophomore, accounting Thrifted

Target

The Gap

“I love different textures. The shorts are almost like corduroy. I also like interesting ways to layer.”

ty wasn’t as good as the price I was paying for the food,” Parker said. “Economic times are hard. People need something for their money.” Rachel Kimrey, junior in chemical engineering, said she never heard of Ezell’s, The Oaks or many of the other restaurants on South College Street. “It’s a lot easier to go to restaurants closer to campus,”

Kimrey said. “I eat on campus a lot or in a lot of the restaurants on Magnolia or downtown just because it’s quicker.” Cantrell said he’s noticed students’ preference for restaurants closer to campus, even though many live in nearby apartment complexes. “When it’s time to go back out or anything, everybody goes out to a place where there are a few more restaurants and there’s more of a

draw, like shopping,” Cantrell said. Kimrey said she often avoids places that don’t accept Tiger Club Accounts, which is why businesses on South College don’t typically get her business. Though it’s difficult to maintain a business on South College, Parker’s advice for restaurant entrepreneurs is simple. “Get you some peoplefriendly cashiers and get you a product that sells,” he said.

DANIELLE LOWE / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

University Grill, located on South College Street, opened last semester and closed shortly after. Santa Fe Cattle Company was the prior occupant.

FEAR

» From B5 can make you into that character, the more the audience will be scared.” Fear can be used at the right time and is sometimes appropriate, as in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. “That was scary news. They didn’t go over the top in trying to scare us,” Ferris said. “But the fact that the story happened is scary, and that’s an appropriate time to use scare tactics.” David Sutton, professor of communication, said the overuse of the word crisis is a common tool used by media outlets today to grab the viewer’s attention and keep them

watching. “I do wonder why I keep seeing the word crisis, like the child obesity crisis and global warming crisis,” Sutton said. “For me, crisis is imminent destruction—if we don’t do something about it we’re finished.” Sutton cited a 2009 Welsh public service announcement which showed three girls in a car accident in gory detail. The purpose of the announcement was to warn against texting and driving, and it used the fear of death and fear of the loss of health to make its point. The ad sparked much debate, but had a profound effect on its viewers, Sutton said. William Buskist, professor

of psychology, said fear in the hands of the media and politicians can create doubt. “A lot of people do not function well under conditions of uncertainty,” Buskist said. “They worry about the future in all sorts of ways.” Fear used in the media grabs and holds attention in the audience by creating a sense of uncertainty, Buskist said. The particular news source presenting the information becomes the place viewers return to for answers. “All anyone has to do is to create a perception that something bad will happen,” Buskist said. “A famous quote that I like along these lines is ‘power perceived is power achieved.’”

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Fashion Thursday February 2, 2012

B7 www.theplainsman.com

Intrigue

Dress for any occasion Alter an outfit for work and afterward Hope Burleson WRITER

Everyone sometimes find themselves in a dilemma when they want to go out with friends after work, but don’t have time to go home and change clothes. Changing a few things in an outfit can turn professional work attire into a night-onthe-town look in a matter of seconds. For girls, the outfit that would be easiest to transition is a dress, said Lauren Piques, senior in Spanish international trade and Gap sales associate. “A good dress to pick would be something that is casual that you could dress up for work,” Piques said. “You could dress it up with a blazer and wear a tank underneath.” Shedding the tank and blazer after a day on the job is perfect for creating an after-work look. “If it’s cold outside, you could transition the blazer into a trench coat,” she said. “And add heels.” Another look Piques suggests is a modest knee-length dress with a sweater of the same length. When it’s time to go out, just take off the sweat-

Swap to save Kate Jones INTRIGUE EDITOR

Christine Patterson met Emily Kerzin one day while working at Dayspring Nature Shoppe, and the two hit it off talking about thrifting. Now the pair has teamed up to host an official clothing swap at Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship for students and the community. Kerzin, graduate student in counseling psychology, attended her first swap as an undergrad at New York University. “I saw some kind of little blurb about a clothing swap, and I was living in the city at the time and it was in Brooklyn, and I dragged a friend,” Kerzin said. “I was like, ‘I don’t know how this is going to be, but we’re going to go.’” A clothing swap is when people bring unwanted clothes, accessories or shoes to an event and trade them for other people’s items. “That one had the most effect on me because … instead of going out and buying and consuming new stuff, they’re taking pride in this event,” Kerzin said. Patterson, freshman in fine art, said the two began attending AUUF together and decided to hold the clothing swap there. “They’re just a great group of people looking for ways to reach out to the community,” Patterson said. “The fellowship has a great space, and I told her I don’t think it’s ever been done in Auburn, and it’s great for a college town.” Kerzin said male clothing will be incorporated into the

» See

SWAP, B8

er, she said. For more formal workplaces, Piques said the key is to layer, moving from more formal in the outer layers to less former in the lower layers. “Wear a plain white Oxford button-down and pin-striped pants and blazer,” Piques said. “Under the button-down, you could wear a tank with a little lace. When you go out, take off the blazer and button-down and add a sweater vest.” Piques said camel pants are appropriate for work as well, but are also nice for spring and aren’t as formal as black dress pants. Accessorizing and changing shoes are other inventive ways to change up your look to fit your situation, said Leah Colvin, senior in supply chain management and manager at Ann Taylor Loft in Village Mall. “I’m all about a statement piece of jewelry or scarf,” Colvin said. “You can also take off boots and tights, which are more casual, and wear dressier flats.” Piques and Colvin suggest women should have the following as wardrobe staples: a black dress, a pair of darkwash denim jeans, a pair of slacks, a flowy top, a versatile cardigan, a metallic clutch purse, a decorative scarf and a piece of statement jewelry. For guys, the options are limited, but there are still a

few things that can be done to transition their wardrobes. “Business-wise, I would pair black pants with a shirt and tie and add the V-neck sweater to go over it,” said Brent Boatwright, Gap manager. “Then, to go out, I would switch the shoes from a dress black to more of a casual black, take off the tie and roll the sleeves over the sweater.” For a more relaxed work environment, Boatwright suggests darker jeans, a buttondown dress shirt with some color and a button-down sweater vest. “There’s not much I would change with this look, but maybe the shoes,” Boatwright said. “You could actually wear flip-flops or TOMS to go out. With the vest, you could button it up to dress it up a little more. To dress it down, you would unbutton it and untuck your shirt.” Collin Vaughan, American Eagle associate, said he usually just changes his shirt and shoes when transitioning from casual to dressy. “I’ll change my T-shirt to a button-down and my sneakers to loafers,” he said. Boatwright and Vaughan suggest guys should have the following staples: a pair of dark jeans, solid white and solid blue button-down shirts, a pair each of black dress pants, kahkis and basic brown loafers with a belt and a watch.

Gray Gill models a slim, one-pocket shirt with straight leg classic khakis and a four-pocket shawl cardigan for a daytime business casual look from The Gap.

CHRISTEN HARNED / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

Lauren Piques models a printed graphic pleated dress with a navy, double-breasted jacket for a daytime business casual look from The Gap. Piques models the same printed graphic pleated dress with a rickrack open vest and a chunky pearl necklace for an evening look.

Gill models a men's crew-neck tee with the same classic khakis and four-pocket shawl cardigan for an evening look.

Intrigue B8

The Auburn Plainsman

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Make a wardrobe pop with colored pants Kendall Wangman WRITER

The color pop trend is catching eyes on and off the runway. The stores in downtown Auburn are chock-full of bright and bold colors. It’s not just tops that use a vibrant palette—pants are making a big statement. Behind The Glass manager Zach Popwell heads to the Atlanta Mart each year in search of merchandise for the store. “This year color blocking was everywhere at market,” Popwell said, “but it was colored denim and pants that instantly caught my eye.” Popwell ordered an assortment of colored denim ranging from bold sea foam green to light lavender. “Colored denim can seem intimidating because most people just assume it won’t go with anything, but that’s not the case,” Popwell said. “If anything, colored pants are a great investment because they make

such a statement that the rest of the outfit can be pretty simple.” Chloe Popwell, general manager of Behind the Glass, said a boldly colored pant can be seasonally adjusted and will evolve throughout the year. “Free People’s upcoming mid-summer collection at our last market trip included patterned denim, which is similar to the solid, bright-colored pants, but can be carried into fall,” she said. Savannah Spilker, junior in apparel design, recently invested in her first pair of colored pants. “I would wear a neutral-colored top because I wouldn’t want to take away from the brightness of the pants,” Spilker said. She said colored pants easily transition from day to night. “During the day I’d wear a chambray shirt and a scarf that has a hint of the same color as the pants,” Spilker said. “For

REBECCA CROOMES / PHOTO EDITOR

Colored pants are a trend for the spring and should be paired with a neutral top. The pants can be worn during the day or dressed up to be worn at night.

night I would wear a silky top with necklace, bold earrings and wedges.” Colored pants also have

more buyer appeal because they will most likely work with a pair of shoes already in your closet.

“You can pretty much wear any type of shoe,” Spilker said. “The colored pants I got were cropped, so I can wear wedges,

SWAP

» From B7 swap. “It matters if guys come,” Kerzin said. “I think the more number of people … come, you have more to choose from.” Kerzin said she loves swaps because the number of items a person can leave with is not tied to what he or she brings to the event. She said she’s seen people leave with full suitcases of stuff or just a few items. “It’s like a potluck,” Kerzin said. “No one is going to be like, ‘You have to bring something’ or, ‘You have to provide as much as you eat.’ Like, we’re just going to throw it all out on the table and usually it works out.”

heels or flats.” Meghan Medford, senior in apparel merchandising, writes for CollegeFashionista.com, an online publication which covers campus trends. “Right now, since it’s still cold outside, I would do a red pant with boots and a neutral top,” she said. Medford also said other bold colors can be incorporated into the look. “With the red pants I would do a blue blazer or even a muted yellow or goldish color,” she said. “You just have to make sure there isn’t too much color and that the colors work and it’s not overpowering.” Although a skinny pant leg is more commonly seen with colored pants, Medford doesn’t limit the styles of her colored denim. “I really like a high-waisted colored pant with a cropped top,” Medford said. “I would do something like a wedge or a fun heel.” Admission is free for students with a TigerCard and $3 for the public. All proceeds will benefit the AUUF. “We’re not going to turn anybody away if they don’t bring money,” Patterson said. “We’re not really trying to raise money. (We’re) more providing something fun for students and anybody in the Auburn-Opelika area to get involved in. “Also, (the swap is) kind of a way to send a message about reusing and recycling and different ways to still shop … in this economy.” The swap will be held Feb. 18 from noon to 5 p.m. at the Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship on the corner of East Thatch Avenue and Debardeleben Street.