sPRINGHILLIAN THe
September 24, 2009 Volume 89, Number 3 Mobile’s 1st Collegiate Newspaper
arOund CaMpuS
Mobile ranked seventh in crime compared to other U.S. cities
Public Safety Reports for the month of September. pg. 2
As a new school year gets into full swing, students, faculty and staff are reminded that although Spring Hill College is safe, Mobile is not always.
National Hazing Prevention Week brings awareness to Spring Hill. pg.4
KENDRICK DUNKLIN Op/Ed Editor
OpiniOnS & eDITORIALs Want to bet? Follow Jim Love to the Mobile Greyhound Park. pg 6 Television was born following the success of radio, maybe advertisers should return to those roots. pg. 6
life & CULTURe
Acts of Random Kindness gets its start at Spring Hill College. pg. 8 Want to know a great place for a date. Check out Abby’s review. pg. 11 Wondering what book, movie or television show to enjoy. Check out our reviews starting on pg. 11
sPORTs College football is taking over and Greenbery’s got the low down. pg. 14 Evan Parrott discusses fantasy football. pg. 15 Greenberry has a review of Badger soccer from the weekend. pg. 16
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam
DOUG BRUCE/ Photography Editor DOUG BRUCE / Photography Editor
Fr. David J. Borbridge, S.J. illustrates that despite growing concerns due to swine flu, Spring Hill College Campus Ministry is continuing services as usual at St. Joseph and Sodality Chapels. See Campus page 4.
The Hill and Beyond:
Dreaming of working in the world of business
The city of Mobile was rated the seventh deadliest city in America according to statistics released by the FBI on Monday, Sept. 14, while New Orleans was rated number one. According to the Mobile Press-Register, the rating only includes the area of Mobile County, which included approximately 405,797 people in 2008. Last year, the city of Mobile recorded 65 homicides with a rate of 16 per every 100,000 people. Mobile mayor, Sam Jones, stated that he added 30 new officers to the police department, and he has installed a program that will pay $100 for anonymous tips that lead to the arrests and seizures in cases of illegal gun usage or ownership, according to the Mobile Press-Register. Mobile city officials have contested the statistics released by the FBI. According to an interview conducted
by the Mobile Press-Register, Mobile’s acting police chief, Lester Hargrove, said, “I don’t think it’s fair to say that we’re seventh. It doesn’t show a true picture of Mobile”. Mobile County Sheriff Sam Cochran stated that it may be inconsistent in how the statistics are added up. “Quite frankly, I think there are mistakes made in some departments, with some overreporting or some under-reporting,” said Cochran. Dr. Larry Hall, Spring Hill professor of Sociology, feels that its unfortunate that Mobile ranks high on the list of cities with high homicide rates. “No one likes to hear that the murder rates are high where they, their friends, students, and loved ones live,” said Hall. While Dr. Hall thinks that it is a possibility that the statistics could be inaccurate, he thinks that city officials owe an explanation. “The mayor and/or police chief would need to explain why they think the crime rates are inaccurate, and then we could evaluate their allegations, said Hall. “If these two think the rates are not correct, in what specific ways do they think the crime rates for Mobile are inaccurate? It is true, however, that we live in a
whether they should start applying to graduate schools or jobs. See Spring Hill page 2. This semester, The SpringHillian is going to look at a different department or division at Spring Hill College each week and help students ELIZABETH FARREN figure out what they can do Editor in Chief with their major. But this series is not just for seniors, it’s In these tough economic times, many people are also for students contemplatasking ‘What do I do with my ing changing their major and major?’ ‘Now that I’m gradu- for students trying to find an internship over the coming ating, what do I do with my life? ‘What’s the next step?’. semesters. For those majoring in Whether you are gradubusiness, it used to feel as ating this coming December though the world was open to or the following May, many DOUG BRUCE / Photography Editor students are starting to wonder See Business page 3. Mobile Police Department officers on active duty in downtown.
The SpringHillian has started their series, taking a look at which majors are producing jobs and which should continue studying.
Page 2 The SpringHillian September 24, 2009
News
Paige Malone News Editor kpmalone@stumail.shc.edu
Spring Hill remains safe despite growing crime numbers in Mobile Continued from page 1.
society where leaders tend to attack the methodology used when the results show a high crime rate or other unfavorable result that occurred on their watch.” National crime rates are falling, according to Dr. Hall. “They started falling beginning in the 1990’s, they went back up slightly in the early part of this decade, and they seem to be on decline again across the nation,” said Dr. Hall. “I think the residents of Mobile should demand that the city find effective ways to bring our crime statistics back in line with comparable cities in the region and around the country, but I am concerned that this will not happen as long as the Mayor and Police Chief are busy challenging our homicide statistics in vague and unspecified ways rather than trying to deal effectively with what seems to be a real homicide problem.” According to James Crosby, Spring Hill College Director of Public Safety and Security, Spring Hill’s crime statistics are very low. As the Director of Public Safety and Security, Crosby is responsible for compiling and filing the college’s annual crime report to the U.S. Department
of Education, Office of Postsecondary Education. According to the Office of Postsecondary Education’s Web site, in most of the categories, Spring Hill reports either a ‘0’ or very low numbers, which are cases of theft. “In comparison to other institutions of higher learning, our data compares favorably”, said Crosby. “I attribute this low crime rate on campus to our small, close community in which members of the campus community watch out for one another and promptly report any suspicious activity.” To ensure that Spring Hill College is a safe and secure campus, Crosby maintains that Spring Hill’s Department of Public Safety is staffed by a force of trained security officers who are employed under contract from Securitas Security Services, USA, Inc., which is the largest provider of security officers in the United States. In addition, Securitas certifies all of the officers in basic first aid, CPR and use of the Automatic Electronic Defibrillators. The Department of Public Safety patrols the college campus 24 hours
a day, seven days a week throughout the year. In addition, Joe Deighton, the Dean of Students, employs Mobile Police Officers to assist Public Safety in patrolling the campus and with working special events. Spring Hill also receives assistance from the Fourth Precinct of the Mobile Police Department by having regularly scheduled officers patrol the campus on each shift. As basic safety precautions, Crosby recommends that when someone is traveling in a vehicle that the doors of the vehicle be locked. He suggested that when walking, if possible, pedestrians are encouraged to walk in groups and in well lit, populated areas. “I would also suggest that anyone in possession of a cell telephone, program the telephone numbers for Public Safety, as well as the Mobile Police Department, into their speed dial,” said Crosby. “If members of the campus community are ever concerned about their safety, they can call Public Safety at 380-4000, and an officer will respond to their location and provide a
Campus Briefs Front Gate
A full investigation is underway regarding the incident on Sept. 4 when a vehicle was driven into the Avenue of the Oaks gate causing significant damage. No official estimate has been made for the damages to the historical gate.
Damaged chairs
On Sept. 6, Public Safety Officer observed that someone had damaged several DOUG BRUCE / Photography Editor chairs located on the exterior of Viragh. After the incident that occurred on Sept. 4 the only pieces left of the historical gate are the iron chain links that conWrecked lobby nected it to the brick posts. On Sept. 12, a Pub-
DOUG BRUCE / Photography editor
Barbed wire fence guards the Mobile County jail. ride on campus.” Dr. Hall annual crime statistics of advises that if students go Spring Hill at the U.S. Deinto other areas of Mobile, partment of Education Web such as the downtown area site. “I believe that, once where the crime rates are reviewed, they will realize historically higher, they that, while the City of Moshould be careful and stay bile has reported elevated together. crime statistics, our campus The Spring Hill comhas maintained a very low munity can check out the rate of crime,” stated Crosby.
lic Safety Officer found the furniture in the lobby of New Residence Hall had been turned over and posters were torn from the walls.
Damaged exit sign
On Sept. 12, a Public Safety Officer documented that someone had damaged the “Exit” sign in the lobby of the New Residence Hall.
Toolen turned upside down
On Sept. 13, a Public Safety Officer observed that the wrought
iron furniture located on the south side of Toolen Hall had been turned over. Several bicycles were also overturned in the same vicinity. While conducting a walk-through inspection of Toolen Hall, a Public Safety officer reported that someone had overturned the furniture located in the lobby. Trash was also strewn throughout the first and second floors of the building. Papers had also been removed from the bulletin boards and thrown on the floor. -Informaion provided by the Department of Public Safety
News
Page 3 The SpringHillian September 24, 2009
Coming up this month on campus...
Day & Date
Event
Location
Contact Person
Friday, September 25, 2009
Cheerleading Meeting
4:00 p.m.
Chemistry building 126
Adrienne Diestelkamp , 251-709-9537
Saturday September 26, 2009
Cheerleading Clinic
10:00 a.m.
Chemistry building 126
Adrienne Diestelkamp , 251-709-9537
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Cheerleading Tryouts
9:00 a.m.
Chemistry building 126
Adrienne Diestelkamp , 251-709-9537
Wednesday September 30, 2009
Flu Shots P.R.I.D.E. Meeting
11:00 a.m. 4:30 p.m.
Outlaw Recreation Center Quinlan Hall 327
Deirdre Gary, 380-3023 Heidi Zavros, 251-391-8982
Thursday October 1, 2009
Fundraising 101: Making Money For Your Organization
5:00 p.m.
New Hall 137
Student Activities
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Foam Party
Time
8:00 p.m.
Tennis Courts
Campus Programming Board
Special Notices: •
SHAPe retreat Friday Sept. 25 through Sunday Sept. 27
Business majors still have hope for finding jobs after graduation Continued from page 1. many opportunities, however with the current economic times it may feel as though the walls are closing in on graduates. So what options are there for a student majoring in business? According to The Bulletin of Information for Spring Hill, business majors receive a bachelors of science in business administration with one of six concentrations, which are: accounting, economics and finances; computer information systems; international business or management and marketing. The good news for most business students is that business administration was considered the second highest major with accepted job offers according to the Spring Hill 2009 undergraduate degree candidates. The third top major for job offers was international business. For those students who go straight into the work force, the top three majors to earn $41 thousand or more annually are business administration, international business and management. Entering the job force is suggested for graduates of any business program. The
experience you gain in the work force is something that cannot be gained in the classroom. This sentiment is expressed by Glenda Partridge, instructor and division chair for business, who says “Many MBA programs require students to have work experience before being admitted to the program. We have only recently dropped that requirement from the MBA program here at Spring Hill. Many believe it is helpful in graduate school to have had some job experience. It may enrich the class experience by drawing on work events. Internships are very useful both in graduate school admissions and in getting that first full time job.” For those students whose concentration is in computer information systems, U.S. News and World Report released a list of the best cities to find a tech job. The list includes: Atlanta; Boston; Houston, Texas; Huntsville, Ala.; New York; Phoenix, Arizona; San Diego; San Francisco; Seattle and Washington, D.C. Dr. Brian Holbert,
assistant professor of computer science and business management at Spring Hill emphasizes that computer information system majors should realize that “tech jobs are still the most plentiful and fast growing in the country.” Holbert further emphasizes, that the technology industry is rare in that “two years of experience is worth far more than a masters degree when it comes to acquiring new employment in tech.” However, if a master’s degree is still more appropriate for your major, Holbert suggests the University of South Alabama, where their classes allow someone who is working full-time to get their master’s degree. He echoes that Spring Hill has a similar program. Holbert emphasizes that someone who wants to go into education with their business and computer information systems concentration should continue their education before looking for employment. According to the U.S. News and World Report, of the 30 best careers for 2009,
a fundraiser is ranked number seven and a management consultant is seventeen. So business majors, there is no reason to panic. If you know you do not want to go straight into the crazy world of jobs, management was considered the fifth top major for studies in graduate or professional schools according to Spring Hill 2009 Undergraduate Candidates. As an undergraduate student, be aware of any specific aspect of business that fascinates you. This is important, because when it comes to master’s programs, this could decide your field of study. Some common master’s degree emphasis include: non-profit management, finance, human resources and public administration. If you want to enter into a combined business and master’s program, look at Ernst and Young, a professional services company, who in 1999 opened a program with the University of Virginia and Notre Dame that helps you to earn your Master’s on
the company’s dime. The company does ask that you stay with them for three years after your graduation, as well as a few other requirements, but the program is something worth considering. Also, Spring Hill offers a five-year master of business administration program. Just remember as the months tick closer to graduation that thinking about the future is never a bad idea, but don’t stress out trying to fit everything into place. 1/ 2 wi Off th D th epo is Ad sit
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News
National Hazing Prevention Week
Page 4 The SpringHillian September 24, 2009
Campus ministry follows Archdiocese of Mobile for swine flu prevention in Mass
As swine flu becomes more evident, many Spring Hill College Greek Life hosts week to people are wondering if raise awareness about the dangers of hazing. there are any changes to PAIGE MALONE ment. So, it is no surprise that come in church services? News Editor Hazing has always been a vague subject. It is often unclear what hazing is or what groups can be involved. Stophazing.org defines hazing as “any activity expected of someone joining a group that humiliates, degrades or risks emotional and/or physical harm.” Hazing can also include risking someone who is currently in the group with the threat of losing their status. In the past, hazing was mistaken as harmless pranks associated with young men in college fraternities. Over the years, the term has taken a more specific definition as we see it extending to many different groups such as athletic teams and university organizations. Hazing can include everything from personal insults to sleep deprivation. What once was considered pranks can cause physical and emotional damage to many men and women across the map. Events have been publicized and lawsuits have been filed, drawing national attention to the issue. Hazing culture has changed and the damage has decreased, but it is still an important part of our society. To further develop this awareness, the National Hazing Prevention organization declared the week of Sept. 21 through Sept. 25 as National Hazing Prevention Week. Throughout the week, schools across the country will be observing this issue and hosting different activities to promote a healthy environment without hazing. Spring Hill College is observing this week especially because it prides itself on being an educational institution where students can grow and learn in a productive environ-
they have adopted a strict hazing policy. In tune with Alabama laws, the Spring Hill hazing policy states “Spring Hill prohibits any action taken or situation created regardless of location, intent, or consent of the participants, which endangers the mental or physical health or safety of an individual.” Furthermore, the policy specifically states grounds on which hazing is classified such as, any action interfering with scholastic activities or which requires a menial task of any kind. The repercussions for these activities are serious, and the college does not take hazing lightly. The policy states, “Hazing will not be tolerated and severe action will be taken by the College against any student or organization found in violation of this policy, up to and including indefinite revocation of charter for the organization and suspension or dismissal for the students involved.” According to Stophazing.org, hazing is not an easy problem and there are no easy answers. Eradicating this problem seems tough, but by drawing attention to the issue, we can further educate people so they will recognize when it is taking place and how to take action. At Spring Hill, we have a sturdy foundation set. The policies we have adopted guide us to make responsible decisions. The administration is doing all they can to stop the problem, but they are not the ones witnessing or participating. It is up to the students to take the tools we have been provided and make a change. As Stophazing.org says, “If you are not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem.”
PAIGE MALONE News Editor
For many churchgoers, the ceremonial actions have become a growing concern for the spreading of N1H1. When someone enters a church, they habitually pass the holy water fonts, dipping their hands in and then brushing it across their face, followed by the next churchgoer and then the next. Before they even enter the pew, they have been exposed to thousands of germs and are completely unaware. The simple handshake you give one another as you offer peace is another subconscious transfer of germs. Then there’s communion, the most significant part of the service; parishioners line up and one by one drinking the blood of Christ from the same glass. Yes, the Eucharistic minister wipes the glass, but how sure are we that it is destroying 100 percent of the germs? Even if they do not drink the wine and just eat the host, they are pretty much consuming whatever germs the Eucharistic minister has on their hands and the germs they have picked up from the people they follow. This is an exchange we make every time we enter Mass and it has previously never been a problem. This has all changed with the outbreak of the H1N1 virus and its rapid spread across the country. This highly contagious virus has caused churches around the U.S. to rethink the way they handle their services. Churches are reevaluating the way they hold services. Many parishes are making the priests and ministers fre-
DOUG BRUCE / Photography Editor
Spring Hill community member recieves communion at St. Joesph Chapel during daily Mass. quently use hand sanitizer and refraining from the offering of peace as a handshake and just giving your neighbor a simple head nod. Maureen Bergan, Director of Campus Ministry, has been at Spring Hill College for 12 years and says that she has never seen any health concerns with Mass in her time here. With 12 flu seasons under her belt, she is not particularly concerned with this one. Bergan is just as worried as the rest of the campus in terms of low attendance, but she does not see it becoming any more of a threat to her department than any other. Although congregations around the country are adjusting to lessen the likelihood of an increased spread of the virus in services, Bergen says
Spring Hill is following the Archdiocese of Mobile who has not called for any changes in the sign of peace or communion. She also does not see the holy water fonts becoming a problem because they are cleaned very regularly. Although Campus Ministry is not making any changes, Bergan does suggest Mass attendees use their best judgment and determine whether they should attend Mass or not. She says, “The church has always excused the faithful from the obligation to attend Mass when they are sick and that is good advice - whether we are talking about H1N1 or a bad cold or fever, etc. It is protection both for the person who is sick and for those with whom they might come in close contact.”
Page 5 The SpringHillian September 24, 2009
Opinions & Editorials
Kendrick Dunklin Opinions & Editorials Editor ktdunklin@stumail.shc.edu
Letter from the Editor: Finding Lady GaGa should take her poker game off the airwaves yourself while getting to know others Artists lyrics deemed inappropriate by former editor.
Elizabeth Farren discusses how a state’s approach to learning can set a great example for all of us to learn more about others and their cultures. Who knows, one day we may actually start to find ourselves during the search.
to get into these books? Now, don’t get me wrong, ELIZABETH if you ask me, Thurgood FARREN Marshall should have been eafarren@stumail.shc.edu Editor-in-Chief in textbooks a long time ago, but should Rush Limbaugh be added? I am from Texas. But I think this goes Wait, why did I just admit beyond textbook changes that? Don’t get me wrong; and back to the idea of who we’re a pretty cool state full gave Texas the right to make of artists, hikers and shopthese changes? Why do they pers. It’s the largest conget to make changes that tinental state full of cities, could potentially affect the national parks and an assort- other 49 states? ment of unique individuals. If you ask me, the But there are moments when state does not gain that right. all I can think is “really, Sorry “we could be our own what are we thinking?” country” people. The Texas For example, recent- Board of Education needs ly we do not know whether to realize that there are 49 to classify women as busiother states with their own ness permorals, Now, don’t get me wrong, if you sonnel or beliefs and housewives ask me, Thurgood Marshall political in aprons. should been in textbooks a long persuaThis is one time ago, but should Rush Lim- sions, of the many which baugh be added? problems differ from that the Texas State Board of Texas. These differences Education faces in regards to are something that I have updating history textbooks learned first hand from my for the four and half million four years at Spring Hill kindergarten through twelfth College. graders, according to a local What makes colDallas CBS affiliate. lege amazing and what So what do the makes America awesome, textbooks all the way over is that there are people from in Texas have to do with us all over coming together in Alabama? Well, because in various locations. For Texas is such a populous example, only 50 percent state, it dominates national of the Spring Hill’s campus textbook sales; thus, the is from Alabama, while the decisions that the Board of other 50 percent represent Education makes will affect states and countries from a other states. variety of regions. We even So why does Texas have Maryland and Nevada have the right to change his- represented on campus. tory books to include figures But what do you who would not normally be know about different regions considered historical enough across the country? I am
The SpringHillian Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam
E-mail: hillian@stumail.shc.edu
Phone: (251) 380-3850 or 380-3840 Fax: (251) 460-2185
not asking you to learn 50 different state constitutions because honestly I wouldn’t be able to, and therefore, I can’t ask you to do so. But instead, realize that the world is filled with different cultures. Now, I will admit straight off that the most interesting part of theology classes was comparative religions, so of course I’m fascinated with the various types cultures. Maybe everyone isn’t as interested as I am, but I challenge you to find out about new cultures. I’m not asking you to find the best Pad Thai, enchilada or sushi, but instead realize that ‘y’all’ is a southern word, which will be in your vocabulary before you graduate, if it isn’t already. My real challenge, this is for anyone, not just freshman, is not only to discover other faiths, cultures, foods and worlds, but to learn more about yourself. I am a firm believer in the idea that you cannot truly know yourself until you’ve done a lot of questioning. I have learned more about my faith since questioning it; I have only learned who I am since I questioned everything – why I am friends with certain people to why do I dress the way I do, to why I am here today and tomorrow and why I have been where I have traveled? Go meet people, cook random foods and discover everything you aren’t. Only then will you be able to start answering the question: who am I? Spring Hill College 4000 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36608-1791
How many times do you catch yourself humming that annoying tune on the radio or singing your little heart out in the shower to songs that don’t even interest you? I’m sure the answer is literally in the millions. What if I told you that songs today are somewhat brainwashing and pushing the youth into discouraging fads? Do you remember screaming in the car, “Baby you’re much too fast little red corvette,” and wanting a hot little corvette? Or what about humming Jesse’s Girl while reminiscing about the girl that got away from you? If these simple lyrics push your mind into relating them to your own life, what are lyrics today teaching our youth? So, here I will take you on a tour of up-to-date music and what is now making the charts on fire. Beware though; you may not like what you read. Lady Gaga has topped the charts all summer. With her sex appeal and flashy CD covers, there is not many in the 10-25 age demographics that haven’t heard her saucy lyrics. “Let’s have some fun, this beat is sick, I wanna take a ride on your disco stick,” is her latest lyric within the song “Love Song.” But that’s not the only lyric that is repeated in almost every club I go into. Lady Gaga, in her song, “Poker Face,” sings, “I’ll get him hot and show him what I got.” It goes on to describe a game of poker in such vulgar description. This
language should be illegal on public radio stations. That leads us to wondering whether it is the Federal Communications Commission’s fault or our own for supporting it and allowing it on our airwaves. Oh, but wait, if you haven’t seen the music video featuring this young pop artist in a g-string leotard dancing with about 20 men surrounding her, you’re truly missing out. These men aren’t just standing there either! And we thought we were doomed when Britney Spears got knocked up. On to our next disgrace to music: Eminem. I began my research at his Web site where the background is a picture of a stack of pills. On his most recent album, “Relapse,” lyrics like: “At the Ramada Inn, holdin’ on to the pill bottle, then lick my finger, and swirl it round the bottom, and make sure I got all of it wake up naked at McDonald’s with blood all over me, dead bodies behind the counter, shit guess I must have just blacked out again.” Wow, really Eminem, this is what kids are suppose to look up to? I can respect your rhymes and how you focus on a beat, but get lost druggy. I do believe a celebrity should be a hero in some ways. He or she should be a model for kids to look up to, not a thug just trying to sling a beat and make millions off of vulnerable and insecure teens, which makes him sound like a Chief Executive Officer for the tobacco industry. It’s time to pay attention to what your children are listening to parents, or soon your teen will be overdosing and dancing on “disco sticks.” As for us young adults, take a second to understand these degrading lyrics, and do not adopt them.
800-742-6704 251-380-3030 www.shc.edu
Photographer Doug Bruce dmbruce@stumail.shc.edu
ASHLEY ROBINSON
acrobinson@stumail.shc.edu Editor Emeritus
Page 6 The SpringHillian September 24, 2009
Opinions & Editorials
Rapper provides negative example for teens Do companies Kendrick Dunklin looks at rapper Kanye West’s record for disrespect in public places, focusing on the example the artist sets for teenagers looking up to him in an unstable world. KENDRICK DUNKLIN Op/Ed Editor
Rapper Kanye West made one of the biggest mistakes of his music career on Sunday, Sept. 13. If you did not watch the Video Music Awards, Kanye rudely interrupted Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech declaring that Beyonce’s video for “Single Ladies” should have won the award. Taylor Swift looked shocked and upset while the crowd booed Kanye off of the stage. His behavior was completely unacceptable and immature. This is not the first time Kanye has acted inappropriately while on national television. In September 2005, during a benefit for Hurricane Katrina victims,
Kanye stated that “George Bush doesn’t care about black people”. In November 2006, Kanye interrupted the acceptance speech of Justice and Simian at the MTV Europe Awards, proclaiming that his video for “Touch the Sky” should have won the Best Video Award. In September 2007, Kanye claimed that MTV got Britney Spears to open the Video Music Awards instead of him because he was black. There is a time and place for everything. Yet, Kanye seems to forget or ignore this phrase. Jay-Z suggested in an interview recently with MTV that Kanye was a “passionate” person, which caused many of his outbursts. Well, should his passion for pop culture, as Kanye puts it, cause him to act inappropriately in front of millions of people? When he snubbed
Taylor Swift, not only did he upset her, but he embarrassed Beyonce and his fans. So, how many times can a man apologize before his apologies turn into fictitious words only believed by that man himself? Well, I think that is what has happened with Mr. West. His outbursts have always generated apologies from the rapper, but many people found his apology on the Jay Leno Show to Taylor Swift to be insincere because we know that it will be a matter of time before he does it again to some other unknowing victim. I am not a huge fan of rapper 50 Cent, but I wholeheartedly agree with him when he said that Kanye knows how to pick his battles. Now, what if Kanye would have interrupted singers Pink, Mary J. Blige or rapper 50 Cent? The stage
probably would have turned into a boxing match. While I do not condone violence, Taylor Swift should have hit Kanye on the head with her Moon Man. He would have deserved every bit of it. As an African American, I was terribly upset at his behavior because that was not a positive image to put forth to young African American men that may look up to him. There is nothing wrong with Kanye having and speaking his opinions, but there are proper forums to do so. Young black men often receive negative media attention, and the outburst of West does not help to improve that image whatsoever. He had such a strong opinion of former President George Bush’s treatment of African Americans after Hurricane Katrina, yet his recent behavior
need to change advertising? A look at how television’s business model is not cutting it anymore. JOHN MERRILL
jamerrill@stumail.shc.edu Contributing Writer
After writing my first two articles, I realized that I have not been keeping a very low profile. In my first article, I readily admitted that I am a Virginia Tech fan and let everyone know that I rooted vehemently against Alabama at the Georgia Dome. That alone probably upset over half the campus community. Last week, I took a pretty good shot at Kentucky horse racing and most certainly upset our residents from Louisville who take great pride in one of
their state’s biggest industries. This week, I have decided to suggest an entertainment location in Mobile County that will please everyone, but I am sure some of you will have a problem with this article also. Just a short trip down I-10 West from campus, lays one of Mobile County’s finest treasures, Mobile Greyhound Park. Mobile Greyhound Park is just a stones throw away from Exit 13 off I-10 in Theodore. Mobile Greyhound Park is home to live greyhound racing five days a week, simulcast horse racing, harness racing and greyhound racing from all over the country and fine dining on its third floor in a restaurant overlooking the
track. I have spent many fun evenings at Mobile Greyhound Park during my three plus years at Spring Hill College. I will even argue that the times I spend there have enhanced my educational experience. I am certain that many of you are rolling your eyes right now, but allow me to explain myself. The art of picking winning dogs is rooted heavily in statistics, and the art of betting the right amount on a dog requires good money management. I have learned historical lessons from talking to some of the track’s regulars, who may have served in our Armed Forces or have
been long time residents of Mobile. As much fun as I have at the track, I must say that the first floor needs updating. Recently, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians has made an offer to purchase a 65 percent interest in the track that otherwise would have “gone bankrupt in two years.” The plan is to lobby for slot machines or table games to be added to the track, and they would like to modernize the aging facilities. Live greyhound racing is always exciting to watch at Mobile Greyhound Park. Matinee racing is on Monday, Wednesday and
Television sucks. I’m not complaining about the total vapidness that some channels call programming (thank you MTV). Hell, I’m not even going to complain about the lack of morality or intelligent programming. I’m talking about broadcast television as a business model. When television first became a commercial entity, it took after the business model of its parent technology: radio. In radio broadcasting, particularly in the era before television, advertisers paid for air-time in which they would fill with their commercials, which took up the space between radio programs or ‘shows,’ a bit of an ironic term considering that you don’t actually see anything on radio. Occasionally, some programs would be paid for or sponsored by companies themselves. That’s where the term ‘soap’ comes from; soap companies paid to create programming for housewives in the middle of the day. Frankly, in it’s original incarnation, and given the limitations of the medium, the broadcast paradigm is a fantastic model for television. So, what’s my issue with it then? Quite simply, the television that exists today is a com-
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2610 Lakeview Road Hattiesburg, MS 39401 Phone: (601) 544-4445
Advisor Stuart Babington sbabington@shc.edu
Contributing Copy Editor John Merrill jamerrill@stumail.shc.edu
Advertising Manager Adam Pfaff appfaff@stumail.shc.edu
See Kayne’s page 7.
Local Mobile attraction should be visited by all Mobile Greyhound Park has been a past time of Jim Love’s since freshman year, so see why he returns weekly. JAMES LOVE
jvlove@stumail.shc.edu Contributing Writer
See Student page 7.
See Avoiding page 7.
Page 7 The SpringHillian September 24, 2009
Opinions & Editorials
Student’s tradition is enjoyable for more than racing and betting
Continued from page 6.
Saturday beginning at 1 p.m. Night racing is Monday and Wednesday thru Saturday beginning at 7:30 p.m. There are 14 races in each block, and races occur approximately every 15 minutes. A greyhound race is exciting, but if you daydream a little too long, you will miss it. Eight greyhounds run the 5/16ths of a mile course in approximately 31 seconds. That works out to about 36 miles per hour, but the greyhounds can reach speeds of upwards of 40 miles per hour during a race. The lightning fast action of eight greyhounds chasing a lure around the oval track is exciting, but it is made even more exciting by the prospect of wagering. Mobile Greyhound Park is the lone entertainment venue in Mobile County that presents the opportunity of winning money instead of spending it. For a minimum of two dollars, patrons can wager on the races and actually receive a handsome return should their dog be the winner. The minimum bet on a trifecta was recently lowered to one dollar, and the minimum bet on a superfecta is ten cents. A trifecta requires a patron to pick the top three dogs in order and if a patron can successfully hit a superfecta --- top 4 in order -- they can win massive sums of money. If greyhound racing is not your thing, you can bet on horse racing from all over the country at Mobile Greyhound Park, receiving signals from Louisiana, New York, Kentucky, West Virginia and as well as other states. The park is always streaming big races. The busiest day of the year at Mobile Greyhound Park is Kentucky Derby Day, when the entire facility is packed with patrons looking to place a bet on the big race. If you do not like rac-
ing or betting, I would still recommend Mobile Greyhound Park as a dining venue. The third floor restaurant overlooks the track and offers a variety of good entrees at affordable prices. If you really want value, but not the atmosphere, stay on the first floor and eat at Casey’s Café, where fries are one dollar, coffee is 90 cents and nachos are two dollars. Mobile Greyhound Park was opened in August 1973, and it is has made an excellent philanthropic imprint on Mobile County ever since. It has donated over $110 million to education, police and fire pensions and municipalities since its inception. According to the track’s Web site, “Mobile Greyhound Park brings many wonderful aspects to the area. For some, the park is a source of recreation and entertainment. For others, it’s the provider of new opportunities and ideas. Perhaps the greatest aspect of Mobile Greyhound Park is that it allows everyone in the Mobile area to be winners.” The track also has an adoption center for retired greyhounds and information about it can be accessed on the park’s adoption Web site. The track’s biggest advocate in the early 1970’s was Casey Downing, a member of the Alabama House of Representatives who won the legislative fight to legalize greyhound racing in Mobile County. The café on the first floor and the mechanical lure, which the greyhounds race after on the track, are named in Casey’s honor. Mobile Greyhound Park should not be a place of mystery to you anymore. Remember that a fun filled evening of food, friends and racing is just a 15 minute drive away. Just round up some buddies, get in your car and you could be the next big winner. I’ll see you there.
Kanye’s style is shameful for music Continued from page 6. shoots his supposed activism straight to hell. I know I do not speak for the entire African American race, but I know I do not want Kanye West to ever be the poster child or spokesperson for African Americans. Some people would say it is not that big of a deal, but 19-year-old Taylor Swift did nothing to Kanye, and besides, it was her first Video Music Award. Swift
did not vote in the selection process, so it was not her fault that her video beat out Beyonce’s. I think America appreciated the classy and sophisticated actions of Beyonce by allowing Taylor Swift to give her acceptance speech during Beyonce’s win for Best Video. It illustrated how Beyonce tried elegantly to clean up Kanye’s mess. She should really give him a lesson on how to handle things with tact and maturity.
Continued from page 6. pletely different incarnation (at least from a financial stand point) than the television of sixty years ago. I can’t think of the last time that I watched a premier broadcast on television, and were it not for Dr. Bordas, I would hardly ever watch a show on a television period. I don’t even own a television. Perhaps I’m not the perfect example of the typical American, since I don’t even own a television. But, considering that I’ve watched at least twelve hours of television programming in the last three days alone, I don’t think that not owning a television is really impeding my viewing habits. I watch the shows that I’m interested in on Hulu or on Sidereel, and if on the off chance the show is totally unavailable through either site (thank you USA for stealing Burn Notice from me.) I simply set it to record on my digital video recorder (or as is more often the case, Dr. Bordas’) and watch it in giant gulps (skipping through the commercials, naturally). The point is, I watch television; I love “House,” “Burn Notice,” “Eureka,” “NCIS,” and a ton of others; and yet, I don’t really feel the need to have a television at all. Beyond that, I never see
commercials. Last week, while watching television at aforementioned chemistry professor’s house, I decided to go ahead and watch the commercials instead of just skipping through them (she’s gotten into the habit of pausing the broadcast right as the commercials start, holding a conversation and then returning to the show after the entire commercial break is finished). One quick commercial break later (I think there was a Dove commercial, and maybe a Lexus one.), I was reprimanded for subjecting those around me with completely unnecessary capitalism (and more over depriving those around me with time to go to the bathroom) and quickly lost my “remote privileges”. So, I’ve watched one commercial break in the last three months. I’m not saying that television should be more commercial, far from it in fact, rather I’m saying that the current commercial break just doesn’t cut it anymore.
Kanye should also be ostracized from pop culture because he took away from the beautiful and lovely Janet Jackson and her tribute to her deceased brother. It was a beautiful tribute, mainly because Janet Jackson is beautiful, but the antics and juvenile behavior of Kanye took away the shine of that performance because everyone was talking about Kanye West, a pathetic and senseless human being.
Avoiding some advertising may cause an overflow from other, more annoying ads Maybe advertisers should focus more on product placement (though that would tend towards the sort of commercial programming parodied in The Truman Show, “Why don’t you let me fix you some of this new Mococao drink?”) rather than trying to lure me into watching commercials. That being said, I can’t count the number of times I’ve seen the same three commercials on Hulu, and I have grown utterly sick of the TAG body spray commercials on Pandora (no, I don’t know who Carmelo Anthony is, nor do I care about his new TAG body spray scent, ‘Stay Up’). So, I suppose that the commercial break paradigm isn’t a bad business model, assuming that the broadcaster can some how guarantee that you see all the commercials. Not that I would ever buy a television set that didn’t let me skip the commercials with my DVR. I guess maybe I’m just not cut out for television. Worse comes to worst, I suppose I could pick up reading.
Coffee Talk from Spring Hill College NEXT WEEK’S TOPIC: Is television advertising still effective or should companies consider change?
Page 8 The SpringHillian September 24, 2009
Abby Cowart Life & Culture Editor alcowart@stumail.shc.edu
Life & Culture
Student Spotlight: John Tanner Refill, not landfill John Tanner is typically classified as a soccer player. Here are a couple of new classifications. GREENBERRY TAYLOR Sports Editor
Just been bombin’ some hills, brah. You know, carving up some gutters. Excuse me, I’m still stuck in the world of John Tanner. To those who don’t know sophomore John Tanner, he’s pretty hard to miss, or pretty easy to spot, depending on how you’re looking for him. Tanner rocks dreadlocks, and yes, he does wash them, for those of you who are wondering. Besides the locks, Tanner is probably best recognized as a member of the Spring Hill College Men’s soccer team. However, off the field he has another passion.
Since he was a kid, Tanner has been on a board. Growing up in Orange Beach, Ala., he had easy access to the Gulf of Mexico and instantly connected with the sport of surfing at the age of 8. Since that time, he has always felt “comfortable” on any type of board. Snowboarding, skateboarding and even DOUG BRUCE /Photography Editor shuffle boarding (only if Sophomore John Tanner Tanner is feeling a little longboards down the Avenue. crazy) come as second nature to this cat. So, when board, he brought the next he decided to come to best thing, his Mchunny Spring Hill College in 2008 longboard. on a soccer scholarship, it’s A longboard is much no surprise that he brought longer and wider than your a board with him. traditional skateboard. With no water or snow These boards were created on Spring Hill’s campus to See Student page 10. satisfy Tanner’s hunger to
New group offers kind works to those in need New student organization to take part in generous activities around campus. ABBY COWART
Life & Culture Editor
Who does not love a random kind gesture during a rough day? That is the motto of Spring Hill College’s newest group, the Acts of Random Kindness club. The ARK club is a group that requires a small amount of commitment but offers great rewards to those who are involved with it. The club’s purpose is to take part in random kind activities that not only spread good feelings around campus, but also allow students to get to know people they might have never met before. Juniors Lynne Fritscher and Mackie Duhon, the club’s founders, came up with the idea of the ARK club over the summer and are now putting their plan into motion.
DOUG BRUCE /Photography Editor
The Acts of Random Kindness club aims to “pay it forward” to those on campus who are in need of a random, kind gesture. “I was on the ARK team at my high school, and I thought Spring Hill could use some random acts of kindness,” said Duhon. “Spring Hill can be very stressful at times, and I know that a kind gesture can mean the world to me when it’s out of the blue. I want people to step outside of their normal routine to
make someone just a little bit happier with an unexpected act of random kindness.” Fritscher and Duhon have come up with several easy ideas for the semester that will serve to brighten the day of students, faculty and staff when they need it most. See Students page 12.
Dr. Bordas explains how harmful plastic is to the environment and provides some safer alternatives.
DR. LESLI BORDAS lbordas@shc.edu Associate Professor Chemistry
Eighty percent of the water bottles produced in the United States end up as garbage in landfills. One and half million barrels of oil are used annually to produce disposable water bottles. That’s enough energy to fuel 100,000 cars. But it’s OK, because your water bottle is one of the 20 percent that gets recycled. Right? Well, let me try another tactic. . . . Do you recognize the following compound?
HO OH
It’s 4,4’isopropylidenebisphenol commonly known as Bisphenol A or just BPA. The annual production of BPA is estimated between two and three million metric tons (that’s a whole lot!). Bisphenol A is an important monomer in the production of polycarbonates (I promise there is a point to all this) and has been used in consumer products since the 1930s. What kinds of products? Well I’m glad you asked. Products in plastics like: water bottles, baby bottles, sports equipment, medical and dental devices, dental fillings, eyeglasses, combs and brushes, toothbrushes, CDs, DVDs, household electronics and yes. . . even your blackberry. Bisphenol A is known to leach from the plastic lining of water bottles and canned foods, especially if these encounter acidic environments or high temperatures. BPA can be absorbed through the
digestive system, through your skin or even inhaled. The scary thing is that we have been exposed to it since our prenatal days in our mother’s womb. If we have all been exposed to it and we’re still here it can’t be that bad? In general, our exposure has increased at an alarming rate since the 1980s and research has shown that BPA is not as harmless as we once thought it to be. Scientists have now confirmed that BPA is an endocrine disruptor, that is to say it can mimic the body’s own hormones, which can lead to negative health effects. Like what? Well, it has been linked to long-term reproductive and carcinogenic effects, a 30 percent increase in prostate weight, decline in testosterone, breast cell and prostate cancers, decrease maternal behaviors, disruption of ovarian development and, my favorite, obesity. But don’t take my word for it. Use your blackberry and Wiki it. OK, so if it’s on the Internet it must be true, but what do we do about it? Not all plastics have BPA. If you pay attention to the recycling numbers you’re safe with numbers two, four and five. Definitely avoid number seven plastics. Don’t microwave plastic containers and always wash them by hand, since the use of a dishwasher increases the leaching of BPA. Invest in an inexpensive BPA free reusable water bottle and refill it as needed, you’ll feel better I promise. Visit the www.Goodforlife.com web site and take the challenge. There you will actually be able to see the impact you and others like you are having on the environment.
Page 10 The SpringHillian September 24, 2009
Life & Culture Alumnus Update: J.B. Egan Spring Hill College alumnus, Joseph Bernard Egan, remembers his days on the Hill and advises students to cherish the fleeting moments of college life. ADRIENNE DIESTELKAMP acdiestelkamp@stumail.shc.edu Contributing Writer
A native of Vero Beach, Fla., Joseph Bernard Egan, casually known as J.B., first came to Spring Hill College in the fall of 1957. Though it was fifty-two years ago, he still remembers this day vividly. He was moving into the third floor of Walsh Hall, a men’s dorm at the time, where he later spent another year. Anyone who has ever moved into the third floor of Walsh understands the difficulty of this task with no elevators. While moving in, he spotted a classmate of his father, Holy Cross 1927, helping his son move in directly across the hallway. His father’s Jesuit education is one of the reasons Egan decided to pursue Spring Hill. He knew right away this connection, and many more like it to come, solidified him at Spring Hill. Egan spent his time at The Hill staying very involved with campus organizations. He was an alter server for the required freshman mass at 8 a.m. on Sundays and the daily 5:30 a.m. mass. By doing this, he became acquainted with Fr. Art Colkin, also known around campus as “Big
SUDOKU
Art.” Egan and “Big Art” spent much time together throughout the next four years as he later worked for Colkin in the mail room. From all the time they spent together, Egan recalls that “Big Art” never once referred to him as “J.B.” saying, “There is no saint named J.B. so I will call you Joe” since his formal name is Joseph. However, all of his time spent with the Jesuits and in mass did not always keep him out of trouble. He remembers as a freshman having been “restricted to campus for two weeks” by the Dean of Students at the time, Fr. Holton Rivet, “for missing the 8 a.m. mass even though he had served at the earlier 6 a.m. mass.” Egan also has fond memories of his instruction here at Spring Hill. He majored in accounting after taking a high school course early on and realizing his passion. Surprisingly, advertising was his most memorable course, which he took during one hot Mobile summer. However, he feels that philosophy taught him the most in life because it taught him how to think - a vital asset to have in the real world of business. Egan also passed his years on the hill as a brother
Answer to last week’s puzzle:
of Phi Kappa Theta, then a fraternity on Spring Hill’s campus. In addition, he was involved in the Pershing Rifle drill team. During this time, he also met some influential people on the Hill. Fr. Tom Cronin was a spiritual advisor who taught him much. While serving mass, he met Fr. A. William Crandell during a retreat, who would later during Egan’s stay at Spring Hill became President. As for now, J.B. Egan has found himself back in the warm shores of Vero Beach. He has a successful career as a controller for a pioneer family in his community. Egan has a wife, Karen, and family of four children, five grandchildren and it’s still growing. He still finds time to give back to his community and stay active in his church. He has trained 631 alter servers in the past 31 years for his parish- not a small fete. Egan has also had many other achievements, such as his parish’s annual Church Carnival Treasurer since 1965. He continually donates his time and efforts through various organizations such as YMCA, United Way, Chamber of Commerce and the hospital board. Nowadays, he enjoys playing golf with his wife- a lovely See Alumnus page 11.
Student possesses many unique athletic talents Continued from page 8.
as a land alternative to surfing. They allow riders to make big turns or quick short cuts, referred to as ‘carving.’ With the connection between surfing and long boarding, it’s easy to see why Tanner chose to bring this to a campus with rolling hills, twists and turns. While Tanner enjoys longboarding, he doesn’t use it as much for enjoyment here on campus. What does he use it for? Transportation. Tanner said, “I’d rather spend the money that I would on gas on something else, If I can get around without driving.” But don’t think that he hasn’t tested the concrete around campus. Last year, Tanner bombed the hill of Old Shell Road. According to the Urban Dictionary, ‘bombing a hill’ refers to riding to the bottom of a hill as fast as possible (on a longboard). This trip down Old Shell Road would end up being one of the fastest times Tanner has ever traveled on a board. Tanner started right outside the entrance of school late one night. Some of his friends were down at the bottom by the service road to make sure no cars were coming. When Tanner got the signal, he pushed off and it was game time. “My friends were next to me in their car and when they hit 35 mph, they set it on cruise control,” said Tanner. Sophomore Josh Lidet was driving the car next to Tanner and said, “After we hit cruise, we rode next to him for a second and then he passed us. He had to be going at least 40 mph.”
Let me break this down really quick. Forty miles per hour on a skateboard is not for those who get weak at the knees. Personally, if it would have been me on that board, I might have needed a fresh pair of shorts after about 15 mph. But hey, as someone once wiser than me said, “Play on playa. Play on.” Although Tanner feels pretty good about his run down Old Shell, he still admits that things haven’t always gone so smoothly. Three summers ago in Gulf Shores, Tanner stumbled upon the parking garage of Phoenix West Condominiums. The parking structure was under construction, so the absence of cars had Tanner feeling good. However, on his way down from the top of the garage, Tanner hit an oil spot that had been covered up by sawdust. It forced the board to slide out from under him, and it sent him flying into a concrete column. “I hit the column with my hands on one side and my feet on the other. Right on the ribs,” Tanner said with an easy look on his face. He went on to say that he didn’t break anything but it “hurt like hell.” From the bumps and bruises to the times when speed seems to have no limits, John Tanner radiates a passion for being on a board. Although, he assured us that soccer is just as important, especially right now with the season going on. Tanner seems to have the philosophy that if he’s not on the soccer field, or on a board than he’s, well, bored.
Page 11 The SpringHillian September 24, 2009
Life & Culture
The Time Traveler’s Wife: Alumnus offers advice to students when he lived in the room return in 2011 to celebrate classic book versus movie pastime at Spring Hill. next to the pay phone at a yet again. He still keeps in Continued from page 10.
Audrey Niffenegger’s classic goes up against the summer’s romantic drama blockbuster. JENNIFER CISCO jmcisco@stumail.shc.edu Contributing Writer
While watching previews this summer, my attention was immediately grabbed by “The Time Traveler’s Wife.” It seemed to be a very magical, feel good movie, and I was anxious to see it. Being the bookworm that I am, I was not willing to wait for the movie. I always like to read the book before the movie and I usually find that the book is better, so I borrowed the book from a friend. I was swept away by this love story; The book was absolutely amazing. The story, written by Audrey Niffenegger, is about Claire Abshire who has known the man she was going to marry, Henry DeTamble, since she was seven years old. Henry has a genetic disorder that causes him to time travel. He time travels spontaneously with no control of when or where he will travel. Through out the book Henry travels to Claire in the future, but there are several times where he visits her in the past. This leads to them meeting at the present time with Henry having no recollection of Claire, but she knows everything about him. The two fall in love with each other and get married. Due to Henry’s time traveling, Claire must deal with Henry’s random disappearances, which can take from as little to a few minutes to several days. I personally thought the book was better than the movie. However, the book and the movie were very similar. The only
significant difference is that the book goes into so much more detail than the movie, which does not have enough time to delve into details. This detail really puts you into each character’s place and makes you understand each character better. The life of Claire Abshire seems so much more magical, and the reader adores Henry even more. The movie was probably one of the best movies-based-offa-book that I have ever seen. I say this because it changed very little. The one problem with making books into movies is that sometimes the movie is nowhere near as good as the book was. Some important content can be taken out that was really important in the book. This movie really captures the magic of the book. The actors are very much like I imagined them to be. They really capture the character they are playing. I would definitely say this is much like your typical chick flick, but with a magical flare like no other. All and all, I would say the movie and book were both amazing.
Source: Barnes & Noble Web site
Joseph Bernard Egan stays involved with Spring Hill in many ways. Currently, he is serving a three-year term on the National Alumni Association Board and hopes to continue to serve as part of the President’s Club. He also comes back to visit twice a year for board duties, and for every five year reunion for the classes of 1961 from 1981. Overall, he is pleased with the progress Spring Hill has made. When asked about campus renovations, Egan recalls during his two years of living in Mobile Hall,
time when cell phones were not invented and personal room phones were rare, and so he dealt with it saying, “Someone has to do it”. He applies this same life lesson to the students of Spring Hill today dealing with all of the reconstruction and campus renovations, “someone has to do it”. He is a friend of Spring Hill College’s former President, Fr. Lucey and has already met the new President Fr. Salmi. Egan looks forward to his years at Spring Hill and still plans on many visits in the future, including making plans to
touch with many friends either via e-mail, at Spring Hill functions or through travel. As for his advice for fellow students, “Treasure the moment! The education you are receiving will benefit you for the rest of your life. And some of the friendships you are making will also be special to you for many years to come.” He also recommends attending mass in the Sodality Chapel and hopes Fr. Salmi will continue in Fr. Lucey’s steps of frequently saying mass in the intimate chapel setting.
Local eatery ideal for fine dining Mobile tradition and classic charm make this local restaurant a must for the complete fine dining experience. The delicious food is a nice touch too. ABBY COWART
Life & Culture Editor
For all the guys on campus looking for an elegant place to take their significant other, look no further than Mobile’s traditional fine dining restaurant, The Pillars. The Pillars is located in midtown Mobile in a beautifully renovated antebellum home, originally built in 1904. The building offers over 7,000 square feet of dining space as well as a lighted airy courtyard that holds eight to 10 tables adjacent to a streaming fountain. The Pillars has been a Mobile tradition for over 30 years and has been featured in several magazines and newspapers including Southern Living and The New York Times. It was voted Mobile’s most romantic restaurant and one of the top ten restaurants in Alabama. The owner and
executive chef, Matt Shipp has worked in several famous restaurants in New York and New Orleans and for twelve years has delivered his delicious culinary creations to Mobile’s finest. The Pillars offers an extensive menu full of gourmet dishes with authentic recipes. There are a wide variety of options including steaks, seafood, chicken and even sushi. One of the tastiest, though most expensive, items on the menu is the Gorgonzola stuffed filet cooked with bacon butter and topped with lump crab. On the lighter side, the menu presents a lengthy list of soups and salads including their homemade seafood gumbo and bibb salad topped with apples, pecans and cinnamon vinaigrette dressing. Personally, my favorite dish is the chicken pecan which is baked in lemon butter and served
with smoked Gouda mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. As difficult as it may be, I also try to leave room for dessert as the crème brulee is some of the best in town. The romantic ambiance combined with exquisite food makes The Pillars the perfect location for elegant events, casual dinner parties or an intimate date. Although the restaurant is pricier than some popular chains, the menu still offers many affordable options, making the dining experience worth the while. The Pillars is located at 1757 Government Street and offers lunch and dinner six days a week. Hours of operation for lunch are Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dinner is served Monday through Saturday 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays are reserved for private parties only. Call (251) 471-3411 to make a reservation or schedule a special event.
Page 12 The Springhillian September 24, 2009
life & CulTure
Mix tape magic: Sinatra meets Notorious TV Review: The Mighty Boosh From beyond the grave, the kings of New York City meet in an ingenious collaboration that features original beats mixed with inspiring lyrics. GREENBERRY TAYLOR Sports Editor
Many people have called themselves “The King.” For instance, Elvis Presley, T.I. and even a restaurant claims to be the king of burgers, that’s right, Burger King. However, the city that never sleeps, New York, claims to have two kings. Frank Sinatra and the Notorious B.I.G., aka Biggy Smalls, are both said to be musical icons, the kings if you will, of New York City. The two never exchanged words in their lifetimes, B.I.G. dying in 1997 and Sinatra a year later in 1998. However, the two would collaborate on an album almost 10 years after their deaths. This summer, my good friend, the Notorious B.S.P., dropped an unmarked CD in my lap. What I heard next would shake the foundation of my musical collection. Sometime in between 2007 and 2008, an underground mix tape of New York’s two kings surfaced with the name, Blue Eyes Meets Bed-Stuy. The name Blue Eyes refers
SUDOKU Fill in the grid so that every row, column, and 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9. Answers for the puzzle will be in next week’s paper.
to Sinatra’s nickname, while Bed-Stuy, short for Bedford-Stuyvesant, which is the project where B.I.G. was from. Produced by DJ Cappel and Smitty, the album features Sinatra’s original beats, along with samples of his voice, laced with acapella lyrics of B.I.G. A strange combination no doubt, but surprisingly smooth as butter when it hits your eardrum. The first song on the album is “New York, New York.” It features Sinatra’s “New York, New York” beat and lyrics of B.I.G,’s “Juicy”. As soon as B.I.G.’s voice comes over that beat, spitting the opening lines from “Juicy,” “It was all a dream” and when Sinatra adds a little “New York, New York” in the background, you know things just got real. Smalls lyrical flow with Sinatra’s classic beat can only be described as ‘gravy.’ The song ends with Sinatra saying, “It’s up to you, New York, New York,” hinting for listeners to decide who is the real
king of New York City. It only gets better from there, the next song features the beat from Sinatra’s “A Day in the Life of a Fool” and Small’s “Everyday Struggle” lyrics. Once again, B.I.G.’s voice and the beat are like a match made in heaven, but the nastiest part (nasty means good) of this song is the hook. The hook (chorus) of the song is the original from when Sinatra performed it. This gives the song so much raw energy because it seems like Sinatra and Smalls are exchanging the story of their struggles to one another. I have to cut it off here. I could go on forever about how incredible this album is, but I won’t. Plain and simple, this album is off the charts, quite literally. Being an underground mix tape it cannot be found in stores, so acquiring it is merely luck. But thanks to sites like YouTube, hearing it is only one click away. You owe it to yourself regardless of your musical taste to hear these two geniuses on the same track. You will not regret it.
Comedic program offers unique British humor. ANNA PLOVANICH alplovanich@stumail.shc.edu Contributing Writer
By now, you’ve probably heard of The Mighty Boosh. If not, I’m sure internet hall-of-famer Old Gregg rings a few bells. Old Gregg is a character from comedians Julian Barratt and Noel Fielding’s The Mighty Boosh, and while Old Gregg’s popularity only surfaced on YouTube a couple of years ago, The Mighty Boosh has been in some form of production since 1998. In the late 1990s, Barratt and Fielding became friends and started developing the characters of zoo employees, Howard Moon and Vince Noir, respectively. The years of 1998 through 2000 saw three stage shows based on their “zooniverse,” and in 2001, they were given a radio show on the British Broadcasting Corp. In 2004, the comedic duo began starring in a BBC television series titled The Mighty Boosh after their original theater production and radio show. The second series aired in
2005 and the third in 2007. A fourth series is rumored to be in the works for next year, but neither BBC nor the cast has confirmed this. In its theme song, The Mighty Boosh invites its viewers to participate on “a journey through space and time.” Strange characters, like Old Gregg, interrupt the odd lives of jazz enthusiast Howard Moon and glam rock junkie Vince Noir. Nearly every episode has a new song written by Barratt and Fielding. A great example of British humor, The Mighty Boosh is a breath of fresh air in the otherwise mundane world of television. You can sometimes catch it on late night Adult Swim or the segment Web site. A threeseason disc set is available on Amazon.com, too. MTV has apparently commissioned a spin-off of The Mighty Boosh, but I suggest you watch the original before a lesser version airs. BBC may make a movie adaptation in the future, so Boosh fans have that to look forward to as well.
Students exhibit kind deeds Continued from page 8.
Duhon said that some of the ideas she has planned for the upcoming semester include handing out cookies during exam week, passing out hot chocolate around Christmas time and just sending a nice note to someone who is having a tough time. Several students around campus have already experienced how thoughtful the club’s actions are and how effective it is in shedding light on a stressful day. “I had a very busy week last week and just receiving a little note of encouragement was very reassuring,” said sophomore Allyson Grillo. “Knowing
that someone was thinking about me helped me get through the stressful week.” Duhon is encouraged by the positive response the club has gotten in its first days. “Lynne and I are very excited for a great semester,” said Duhon. “I hope you are all ready to make Spring Hill smile!” Dr. Rachel Peltier will be the group’s faculty advisor. Everyone is invited to join the group, and the first group meeting will be held within the next few weeks. For more information on how to get involved with the ARK club, contact Mackie Duhon at mdduhon@stumail.shc.edu.
Page 13 The SpringHillian September 24, 2009
Life & Culture
Looking up to pay off Get to know: Jennifer Stallings Press release from the Mobile Arts Council
South Alabama CARES announced Sept. 16 that 12 entrants to the second installment of Look Up Mobile!, a visual scavenger hunt, have qualified for the $2,500 grand prize drawing. The winner will be drawn at a reception on Sept. 24, between 6 and 9 p.m. at the Mobile Arts Council office, 318 Dauphin Street. Currently, enlarged prints of photographs of Mobile landmarks taken by local photographers that served as
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the visual clues are on display in the Mobile Arts Council’s Skinny Gallery. The photographers this year are Jason Clark, Lesa Jones, Keyhole Photo (Jeff and Meggan Haller), Craig Roberts and David Trimmier. In addition to the 25 images that were included in the book, there are an additional 25 images by the five photographers. All of these photographs are part of a silent auction. Bidding on the photographs began last Friday during the September ArtWalk and will conclude at 8 p.m. at the reception on Sept. 24. A featured component this year is the inclusion of a painting by Linda LeDet /Fidelus that is also available through silent bidding. The 30 inch by 16 inch oil-on-canvas painting titled “Spring – Tulip” adds color to the black-andwhite exhibition. Comparable works by Fidelus go for $2,400 and upwards. All proceeds generated through these activities benefit the programs and services of South Alabama CARES. Founded in 1987, South Alabama CARES functions as the regional access point for support services and education in Baldwin, Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Covington, Escambia, Marengo, Mobile, Monroe, Washington and Wilcox counties. South Alabama CARES is recognized as a vital resource providing help and hope to men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS. Mobile Arts Council is pleased to partner with South Alabama CARES for this event. Mobile Arts Council’s mission is to bring people and art together. For further information contact David Little, executive director South Alabama CARES, at (251) 471-5277, ext. 20 or Bob Burnett, executive director at the Mobile Arts Council at (251) 432-9796, ext. 13.
Director of Student Leadership and Involvement reflects on working behind the scenes of college life. ELIZABETH FARREN Editor-in-Chief
As the school year progresses, many students and faculty start to get into a rhythm, but there is one administrator whose busy schedule never really allows her get into a pattern, let alone sit at her desk. Jennifer Bishop Stallings is the Director of Student Leadership and Involvement. Her job allows her to work directly with the student leaders of Spring Hill College. So what does that include? Her job includes over seeing pretty much every organization on campus and there are a lot of them. Every year, she works with helping emerging leaders make a presence on campus through various leadership courses and programs. She also works closely with Student Government Association and Multi-cultural Student Union. That does not sound too bad right? Well, Stallings helps both organizations to execute their ideas and make them into realities including Badger Brawl and Unity Week. She also attends senate and cabinet meetings for Student Government. But it does not stop there. Stallings works with Campus Programming with everything from welcome week to family weekend to Mardi Gras ball to cloister socials and every event in between. On top of helping students’ experiences on the Hill to be amazing, Stallings also meets with Student Affairs administrators and officials
to work on policy changes, the creation of new programs or events, and she attends meetings about the new Student Center. But there is still more; she also works closely with Sarah Loge, Coordinator of Greek Life and Campus Programming at Spring Hill, in order to be kept aware of events and news within the five sororities and two fraternities on campus. So someone so busy must have some tough days, right? When asked what she considers her biggest challenge about her job, she replied without any uncertainty “being the bad guy.” She frequently finds herself having to reinforce policy, as well as having to have tough conversations with students, but she says the absolute hardest part is having to give students some room to fail. She says, “In the end, I know that facing consequences or making mistakes will give students an opportunity to grow. I love to challenge students to do better, but it isn’t easy to watch students struggle or hurt.” So how did this Mississippi State and University of Georgia graduate end up at Spring Hill? “Honestly? I followed a boy!” Don’t worry, it all worked out, this past semester, Stallings was married to that boy she followed. Despite the happy ending, she says, “While this is not a path I would recommend, I ended up with a wonderful job and a wonderful husband!” She was not always interested in being on the administration side of education. However,
SETH LAUBINGER / SHC Photographer
she knew she wanted to continue learning after school, so she knew that she was interested in education, but she just assumed teaching. It was only through her involvement in organizations like Zeta Tau Alpha, Panhellenic and Student Government Association during her college years that she began to realize how wonderful and rewarding being involved in the ‘behind the scenes’ aspect of college life is. It is then that she realized how much she was learning from her advisors. It is because of this untraditional teaching that Stallings realized she too wanted to instill this knowledge in other students. Her favorite part of her job is easily the students. She says she lives “for the moments when students ‘get it.’ Those are the moments when they discover who they really are, find their passion, challenge themselves or realize that they can make an impact. I hope that I get to play a role in those moments and that I can make a positive impact.” If you have any questions regarding student leadership or involvement, contact Jennifer Stallings at (251) 380-4186 or e-mail jstallings@shc.edu.
Page 14 The Springhillian September 24, 2009
sPORTs
Doin’ work: college football on a roll
Some of the standout players make big plays resulting in big numbers last week. GREENBERRY TAYLOR Sports Editor
The past weekend of college football proved to be pretty entertaining. There was the shocking upset of third-ranked University of Southern California Trojans as they fell to the un-ranked University of Washington Huskies 10-13 and 18th ranked Utah giving up a victory to the University of Oregon Ducks 31-24. But among all of the ranked-teams falling short of sustaining there spot, there were still some other individuals and teams doin’ work. I have to start first with the defensive unit of the Volunteers of Tennessee, specifically corner back Eric Berry. Eric Berry is a freak. This guy was not only torturing the top-ranked University of Florida Gators offense, but one of the best quarterbacks in college football, Tim Tebow. Berry picked off Tebow in the second quarter (the first to do so this season). I know you’re probably thinking one interception isn’t that big of a deal, but it shook Tebow. Tebow would go on to fumble the ball in a crucial fourth quarter. The last two games the Gators have put up over 600 yards on total offense. The Vols would hold the them to just 323 total yards. However, the Gators pulled out the win scoring 23 points against the Vols 13. Regardless the loss, the Vols defense, undoubtedly lead by Berry, showed that it can hang with the best and do work when it needs to be done. I know the Atlantic Coastal Conference is considered a basketball conference but I gotta show some love to the University of Miami Hurricanes. The Hurricanes started the season un-ranked and have now found themselves resting comfortably at the number nine spot, after an impressive win this weekend over George Institute of Technology Yellow Jackets 33-17, who were previously ranked fourteenth. The Canes can contribute a lot of their success to their sophomore quarterback Jacory
Harris. He stands at six-footfour and weighs only 190 lbs, but plays like a giant. Harris has passed for 656 yards and five touchdowns along with two interceptions so far this season. For a sophomore quarterback, this kid is putting up some pretty impressive figures, along with looking sharp on the field and in the pocket. Harris is getting it done for the Canes, and you can expect them to keep doin’ work as long as Harris stays healthy. It’s hard to stay away from talking about teams in the South Eastern Conference when three out of the five top-ranked teams are in fact SEC schools. So I have to. The fourth-ranked University of Alabama Crimson Tide may have played a tune-up game this weekend against the helpless team of the University of North Texas, but they were almost flawless in play. Junior quarterback Greg McElroy managed to go 13 of 15 for 176 yards and also drop two touchdown passes of 34 and
29 yards, making his completion percentage 84.6 Saturday afternoon as the Tide abused NT 53-7. McElroy also ran for a two-yard touchdown. Running backs Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson also had a solid game against North Texas. Ingram managed to rack up 91 yards on just eight carries and one rushing touchdown, along with a 22-yard touchdown reception while Richadrson accumulated 87 yards on 11 carries and one touchdown. Even though this game wasn’t against a grueling SEC opponent like the Rebels of Ole’ Miss or the Gators of Florida, the Tide put in work on perfecting their game. There are so many more teams I could name that were doin’ work this weekend. But I feel like this is a good cut off line, besides, everyone knows the old superstition about teams that get talked up, they eventually fall. And when they fall, they fall hard.
Greenberry Taylor Sports Editor gbtaylor@stumail.shc.edu
Page 15 The SpringHillian September 24, 2009
Sports
What’s your fantasy? Picks for week two in the NFL Get a breakdown of who to start and who to sit and the options for your fantasy team for this upcoming NFL weekend. EVAN PARROTT
enparrott@stumail.shc.edu Editor Emeritus
Quarterback Start ‘em
Matt Schaub vs. Jacksonville Jaguars Matt Schaub rebounded from a dismal week one performance to post 357 passing yards and four touchdowns against the Tennessee Titans last week. The Jaguars’ secondary hasn’t scared anyone this season, they have given up almost 600 yards in the first two weeks and have yet to record an interception. Sit ‘em Ben Roethlisberger @ Cincinnati Bengals Here is an interesting fact, the Bengals lead the NFL in sacks this season, an astounding 11 through two games. The Bengals have one the most underrated defenses in the league, and Ben Roethlisberger tends to hold the ball too long in the pocket. There are probably better quarterback options on the waiver wire than big Ben. Sleeper Kevin Kolb vs. Kansas City Chiefs Kolb was having a pretty impressive game last week against the New Orleans Saints until the Eagles fell behind, and Kolb had to try to win the game. He still ended up with 391 passing yards and two touchdowns. Expect Kolb and the Eagles to have an easier week against the Chiefs. Running Back Start ‘em
Fred Jackson vs. New Orleans Saints Over the past two weeks, Fred Jackson has made a strong case to remain Buffalo’s starter after Marshawn Lynch returns from his suspension. Jackson is averaging just under 20 fantasy points a week in standard leagues. Through screens and dump-off passes, he has been very active in the Bills passing game. Jackson should get a lot of garbage catches and yards if and when Buffalo gets down early against the Saints. Sit ‘em Thomas Jones vs. Tennessee Titans Thomas Jones was one of the trendiest picks after his week one explosion (100 yards and two touchdowns) against the Houston Texans defense. He came back down to Earth last week against the Patriots, and he goes up against one of the best rushing defenses in the league this week.
Who is the NFL’s leading fantasy wide receiver for the 2009 season? The answer is Mario Manningham. Here is another question: What defense has given up the most pass plays over 20 yards? The answer is the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. You do the math. Sit ‘em
this season and seems to be one of Leftwich’s favorite targets. Look for Winslow to pile up short yardage catches against New York. Sit ‘em
what Watson will do for the rest of the season. Sleeper
Benjamin Watson vs. Atlanta Falcons For all of those people who got excited about Watson’s two touchdown catches in less than a minute and a half in week one, look at his stat line for week two. Watson had three catches for 23 yards. If this is the production you want from your fantasy tight end, then you are in luck, because this is exactly
Antonio Bryant vs. New York Giants Antonio Bryant’s preseason knee injury seems to be more serious than the Bucs are letting on. There is a good chance that Bryant won’t play this week, but if he does, his stat line isn’t going to be very promising. The Bucs are going against the most dangerous defensive line in the TEAM league. Byron Leftwich VB shouldn’t have enough time MS to allow Bryant to complete WS any deep routes.
Dustin Keller vs. Tennessee Titans Mark Sanchez doesn’t throw the ball often, but when he does, he throws it to Dustin Keller. Keller has quietly become one of the most dependable tight ends in fantasy football. He is direct evidence of why you can wait to draft a tight end in the eighth round. He is averaging over 10 points a week and is going up against a defense that gave up over 350 yards in the air last week.
UPCOMING GAMES
Sleeper
Kevin Walter vs. Jacksonville Jaguars Walter has yet to play Sleeper this season, but his time could come this week. The Felix Jones vs. Carolina Jaguars secondary is susPanthers The Carolina Panthers pect, and there are plenty of passes to go around in the have had a hard time stopping anyone on defense this Texans offense. Somebody season. Jones is picking up besides Andre Johnson has to get some catches. right where he left off last season and remains one the Tight End NFL’s biggest home run threats. Start ‘em He should get plenty of carries between the 20’s and is worth a flex start or a Kellen Winslow vs. New York Giants waiver steal. Byron Leftwich will be heavily pressured Wide Receiver against the Giants and will need a safety valve in Start ‘em which to get rid of the ball. That is where Mr. Winslow Mario Manningham @ comes in. Winslow is averTampa Bay Buccaneers aging a touchdown a game Here is a question:
DATE Sept. 25
OPPONENT Talladega College
LOCATION TC
Sept. 26 Sept. 26
Delta State University Delta State University
SHC SHC
WG MG MS WS
Sept. 27 Sept. 28 Sept. 30 Sept. 30
Ann Rhoads Invitational Jim Redgate Invitational University of Mobile University of Mobile
BSC Meridian, MS U of M U of M
VB
Sept. 30
Dillard University
SHC
WT - Women’s Tennis VB- Women’s Volleyball MCC- Men’s Cross Country WG- Women’s Golf
KEY
MT - Men’s Tennis WCC- Women’s Cross Country MG- Men’s Golf
RECENT RESULTS
TEAM MS WS VB
DATE Sept. 18 Sept. 18 Sept. 18
OPPONENT Saint Thomas Univ. Saint Thomas Univ. Dillard University
OUTCOME L: 2-4 W: 1-0 L: 1-2
MCC
Sept. 19
Azalea City Classic
4th of 7
WCC
Sept. 19
Azalea City Classic
5th of 6
MT
Sept. 19
Marion Military Institute
Cancelled
WT
Sept. 19
Marion Military Institute
Cancelled
MS
Sept. 20
Shorter College
L: 0-5
WS
Sept. 20
Shorter College
L: 2-4
VB
Sept. 21
Southern University of New Orleans
W: 3-0
Page 16 The SpringHillian September 24, 2009
Sports
Soccer teams traveled to Georgia this past weekend for invitational Both men’s and women’s soccer teams traveled to Thomas University. Lady Badgers came out with wins, men fall. GREENBERRY TAYLOR
before defeating the Badgers. This loss tying the game. The Badgers did minute mark. Sophomore dropped the Badgers to 0-6. not stop there. With 41 minutes Tyler King assisted junior Caleb Sports Editor With the Badgers last opponent into the match, Spring Hill took a Townsend to score the Badgers first The Lady Badgers maintained of the Invitational being Shorter 2-1 lead when senior Allison Giles goal with 21 minutes into the game. The a balanced record this past weekend at College, the men of Spring Hill hoped scored off of an assist from freshman Badgers struck again one minute later the Thomas University Invitational in to end their losing streak. But Shorter when sophomore forward Gable Fortune Thomasville, Ga. However, the men were not Sarah Uptmor. Shorter prevailed handed the Badgers a shutout loss of to be the tougher team in the end scored on a penalty kick tying the game as fortunate. 0-5, dropping the Badgers to 0-7. though scoring three unanswered at 2-2 going into the half. Coming out The Lady Badgers won their first The men will host Delta State goals against the Badgers. This loss of half time, the Badgers were tough on match of the invitational Friday against Saint University Saturday afternoon at 3:30 dropped the Badgers to 3-4. defense but Saint Thomas was just as Thomas University by a score of 1-0. The lady Badgers play Delta- tough on offense scoring two more goals p.m. This victory snapped the three game State University losing streak, which the Badgers suffered. at home Saturday Junior Lara Menke scored the only goal for R e de e m t hi s co u p on f or the Badgers off of an assist from sophomore afternoon at 1 p.m. The men’s forward Abby Galen while junior goalie soccer team opened Emma Pitchford had another shutout game, -orup the Invitational her second so far this season. This victory against Saint brought Spring Hill College to a 3-3 record. Thomas University. Although the victory was sweet, the second at any of our participating locations: The men lost to game was not as rewarding. Saint Thomas by a The Lady Badgers faced Shorter ~USA Storage ~Grand Slam Storage score of 2-4. Saint College in their last game of the Thomas ~Dawes Stor-All ~Magnolia Self Storage University Invitational on Sunday, falling to Thomas took a ~A-COOL Self Storage ~StorageMax Self-Storage Shorter 2-4. Shorter college came out drawing commanding 2-0 ~All American self storage lead during the first blood, scoring within 12 minutes of first 20 minutes the match’s beginning. Junior forward Jade of the game until Beason would answer back for the Badgers *offer not valid in combination with any other promotions or discounts the Badgers came one minute later scoring a goal off of an Expires 12-31-09 alive around the 21 assist from sophomore Lorie Pendergast,
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