Issue 7_Spring 2012

The

Springhillian

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam | March 15, 2012 | volume 94 Issue 7

InsidenEWS

Nursing and Business accreditation rumors put to rest

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InsideOPInIOn

Blind support for “Kony 2012” movement

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InsideLIFESTYLES

Upcoming musical ‘Godspell’ hits the Hill

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InsideSPORTS

Quarterback says goodbye to the NFL

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Reaching new heights

By AliciaCANDELA Life Styles Reporter

As of March 7, 2012 the President and Vice President for the 2012-2013 year are President Gabriel Wagner and Vice President Payton Tanner.

Junior Gabriel Wagner has been involved with the Student Government Association since his freshman year at Spring Hill. “I was elected as SGA Freshman President Senator, reelected to Sophomore President Senator, accepted the executive cabinet position as Vice President of Student concerns and now here we are today,” stated Wagner.

Wagner discussed his past experiences with SGA and his involvement during this past year. His responsibilities consisted of organizing many of the social events this year including the junior class senate Halloween week event and the Christmas New Year’s weekend event. Wagner also arranged some of the athletic events like the Spirit Charter bus for the volleyball tournament and the 2011 Badger Volley Brawl spirit week event. “This was a very busy year for me within the SGA and we are just getting warmed up,” said Wagner.

All new policies, changes and goals are all listed on the campaign Facebook page, entitled SGA Truth 2012.

“Our Platform includes our promise to always be available to meet the students’ needs. We will help make the see SGA on page 5

THIS WEEK |

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EVENTS

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Hillianstaff EDITOR(s) AllisonPATRICK KatelynGARDNER ADVISOR StuartBABINGTON

March 15, 2012

NEWS editor CoraALLEN LIFESTYLE reporter(s) AliciaCANDELA BrandyJONES SPORTS editor MattLaBORDE SPORTS reporter KieferGINGLES CARTOONIST EfrenFLORES

OF THE

WEEK

3/15/12

Jambalaya Lunch

Join Campus Ministry in their Jambalaya Lunch today, Thursday in the Gautrelet Room. Lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m. - 1p.m., and will include jambalaya, bread, salad, dessert, and drink for only $8. Tickets may be purchased from any of the ISIP students or by calling Campus Ministry at 380-3495. All proceeds benefit the International Service/Immersion Program.

3/16/12

Undergraduate Research Symposium Information Meeting The SHC Undergraduate Research Symposium will be held on Friday, April 20, 2012 from 3:45-5:30pm (following the Honors Convocation).

Information sessions will be held on Friday, March 16 from 12-1pm in QH301.

For more information about the symposium, visit kudzu.shc.edu/urs Contact Dr. Jamie Franco-Zamudio jfrancozamudio@shc.edu 251-380-3058

3/17/12

Luck of the Irish Cook-off & Parade The Luck of the Irish celebrates all things Irish with a family–friendly event in Bienville Square on St. Patrick’s Day. The Irish stew and corned-beef & cabbage cook-off will begin early that day and be ready for tasting by 11 a.m..

The The parade runs at 2 p.m. and wraps around the Square. The park will be filled with Irish bagpipers and troubadours as well as Irish dancers. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the gate with children under 12 free with a paid adult. Call 251.479.5700 for more information.

3/17/12 MS Walk

Please join us as a community to support MS Walk.

Sign up/ Student Center Information Desk Donation, $10 includes t-shirt and donation to Multiple Sclerosis.

3/18/12

RHA’s Minute to Win it

HillianCONTACT The SpringHillian a: 4000 Dauphin Street c/o The SpringHillian Mobile, AL 36608 e: hillian@stumail.shc.edu p: 251.380.3850 f. 251.460.2185

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Juniors Gabriel Wagner and Payton Tanner step into office as they are named President and Vice President of SGA for the 2012-2013 school year.

Photo by KeliMAZZA

Residence Hall Association is presenting a MInute to Win It competition! 18 contestants will be chosen from the audience that day. There are going to three great prizes: Kindle, flip video recorder, and an iPod shuffle!.

Attend the event located in the Cafeteria from 2 - 3:30 p.m.

3/19/12

Public Safety Forum

Public Safety Director Todd Warren invites you to a Public Safety forum on Monday March 19, 2012 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. They would like to have a discussion with our student population about the possibility of expanding of our Public Safety Department to include sworn police officers. Please come and give us your input and ask a lot of questions.

3/21/12

Housing Forms Due

Housing Contract is due on Wednesday the 21st which includes a $150 commitment deposit.

Students must registered as full-time with 12 credit hours for Fall 2012 by March 23.

March 26 will commence round 1: Fairway’s & Skip’s Place April11 will start round 2: 1-Person Housing & 4-person Housing April 16 will be the 2-Person Housing due date.

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March 15, 2012

| NEWS

Spring Hill College hosts Undergraduate Research Symposium for students

By BrandyJONES Lifestyles Reporter

The Spring Hill College Undergraduate Research Symposium provides students with the opportunity to present their research to a large audience. The research can be from an internship or for a classroom project. It provides the community as well as the students and faculty with a space where they can see how research and education connects. According to kudzu.shc.edu/urs, it is a great way for students attending the program to learn about the broad range of opportunities at Spring Hill College. Many projects in various disciplines will be presented by the students.

According to Dr. Jamie Franco-Zamudio, 2012 is the second year of the Undergraduate Research Symposium.

There will be poster presentations set up around the LeBlanc room in the Student Center. One can show anything from a term paper, to a research, video or even an artistic presentation.

“The best part about SHCURS is that it is about professional development.

We are developing presentation skills that they can use throughout their lives,” Franco-Zamudio said.

Workshops also know as SHCURS information sessions will be held by Dr. Franco-Zamudio and Gentry Holbert. It is on Friday, March 16, from 12 to 1 p.m., in Quinlin Hall, room 301.

Dr. Piafsky and Dr. Ruiz-Limon will be holding the Abstract/Project Description writing workshop on Tuesday March

20 from 4 to 5 p.m., in Quinlen Hall room 301. The abstract/project description writing workshop will help with the application process. On the application there is a 250 word essay slot on what the project is about. The essays are posted on the Spring Hill College website. “Our goal is for people to be able to go to Spring

p.m. in the LeBlanc Ballroom in the Student Center. According to kudzu.shc. edu/urs, the workshops are held to help students prepare for the symposium.

Franco-Zamudio said the workshops are open to the student body in general and all students are welcome to attend.

According to kudzu.shc.edu/urs, the Friends of the Library will spon-

Photo By Jamie Franco-Zamudio

Ashley Derenbecker and Megan Zeringue present their posters at the symposium

Hill College and see what the students are doing,” said Franco-Zamudio.

Dr. Dorton, Dr. Reed and Dr. RuizLimon will hold the Presentation Techniques workshop on April 10 from 4 to 5 p.m. in Quinlen Hall, room 301.

SHCURS will be held on Friday, April 20, from 3:45 p.m. through 5:30

sor two Charles Boyle Research Awards for student projects of exceptional quality. A special collections for $250, will be awarded to research that demonstrates substantive use of the archives and federal depository materials of Burke Memorial Library. A print and digital collections for $250, which will be awarded to research

that demonstrates substantive use of the print and digital collections in Burke Memorial Library. There will be two excellences awards in presentations as well.

There are several Spring Hill College faculty and staff that are taking part as judges at SHCURS. Teachers and staff alike have stepped up to judge the projects. “The judges are looking at how informative the poster is. The visibility of it, can they understand what it is just by looking at it. The presenter’s ability to articulate their project. How informative they are in that articulation and their professionalism. The eye contact, the ability to engage more than one person in the project,” said Franco-Zamudio. “It is about us and as many people as possible being there for our students. We are celebrating what they’ve done over the year and acknowledging it. We are giving them a forum to talk about it and share what they’ve done.”

The deadline to submit the application for the 2012 Research Symposium is April, 6, 2012. For more information contact Dr. Jamie Franco-Zamudio at jfrancozamudio@shc.edu or Gentry Holbert at gholbert@shc.edu. The information on SHCURS is available on the IR page on badgerweb. According to FrancoZamudio, the entire program is free. “The students that are involved in the symposium should not have to pay for anything.

There is no entry fee. There is no fee for printing for their posters. Everything is printed out of the Student Affairs office,” said Franco-Zamudio.

Alpha Sigma Nu to celebrate Jesuit heritage Mobile, Ala.--- Spring Hill College will mark Alpha Sigma Nu Week on March 18-23 2012. Alpha Sigma Nu is the international Jesuit honor society. Induction into this exclusive group is the highest honor Spring Hill College confers upon an undergraduate student.

Those selected must excel in academics, campus involvement and leadership, and demonstrate loyalty to the ideals of Jesuit education. Each year, Alpha Sigma Nu inducts only four percent of the Junior and Senior classes.

Alpha Sigma Nu Week is an opportunity for the entire Spring Hill College community to celebrate its Jesuit identity and heritage. Faculty members are encouraged to show the award­winning animated film, “The Olive” in their classes. This short film chronicles the life and mission of St. Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Jesuit order.

Activities scheduled for the student center dining room include students writing appreciation notes to their favorite professors and to passing on

“Magis cards” to fellow students and faculty who exemplify the Jesuit ideal of generosity. Magis (pronounced “màh-gis”) is a Jesuit phrase that means “the more.” It is taken from Ad majorem Dei gloriam, a Latin phrase meaning “for the greater glory of God.” Two lectures will highlight Alpha Sigma Nu Week. Dr. Sarah Duncan, assistant professor of history at Spring Hill College, will deliver the latest installment in the “Last Lecture” series. The Last Lecture origi-

nated as a talk given to students at Carnegie Mellon University

by Dr. Randy Pausch, a professor of computer science who was dying of pancreatic cancer. This extraordinary lecture, in which the professor opened up about his life, beliefs and struggles to students, resulted in an internationally best-selling book titled “The Last Lecture.” Duncan will speak on Tuesday, March 20 at 7:30 p.m. in Byrne Hall.

Dr. Nader Entessar, professor of political science at The University of South Alabama is

the featured speaker on Thursday, March 22 at 7:30 p.m. in LeBlanc Room C in the Student Center. Entessar is an internationally recognized expert on the culture and politics of Iran and will speak on “War Addiction: Vietnam to Afghanistan and Beyond.”

For more information on the Alpha Sigma Nu Week and the scheduled lectures, contact Rev. Michael Williams, S.J. at mwilliams@shc.edu or 251380-4641.

NEWS |

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March 15, 2012

Accreditation rumors of Business and Nursing made clear

By CoraALLEN News Editor

Recently there have been a number of rumors regarding the accreditation of the Business and Nursing departments here at Spring Hill College. Dr. George Sims, Provost is eager to silence the rumors and give the students the truth. Dr. Sims says that there has been somewhat of a “telephone effect” regarding the situations, and that while there is a “kernel of truth,” the facts are distorted.

Many students have heard rumors that the Business Department, the Accounting program in particular, has lost its accreditation. The truth is, however, that the department chose not to renew its accreditation in the 2009-2010 academic year.

Until 2010, the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) accredited the department, After that year they chose not to renew. There are a number of factors that led to this decision. Dr. Sims explains that while there is a “gold standard” accrediting body in business, it is not ACBSP but rather The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB.) The ACBSP was actually created by several

institutions, which were not is among many other prestigious creditation of the Nursing members of the AACSB, and is colleges and universities that do Program. This situation is a the equivalent of a Junior Var- not have an accredited business bit different and to understand sity team in terms of accrediting department. Schools such as completely, one must have some institutions. So, even though the Milsaps, Rhodes, Center Col- background knowledge on the department was in good stand- lege, and Davidson College also issue. The Alabama State Board ing with the ACBSP, the college do not have accreditation. must approve every nursing prosaw no benefit in renewing the Students also shouldn’t gram in Alabama. This is essenaccreditation and according to worry that this will affect the tial because only the graduates Simm, “the only communica- likelihood of getting into grad- from accredited institutions are tion we had with them for five uate school, said Sims. Julian able to take the NCLEX, or the years was the invoice that they Miranda (’11,) graduated as an licensing test. In order to have sent us.” He also says that the accounting major, and despite this accreditation, 80 percent of ACBSP was “takgraduates from an ining advantage of Sims says that he and the Nursing stitution must pass the the word accrediNCLEX on the first tation,” because Department are confident that this try. Spring Hill’s proeven without gram has had several submitting “re- year’s 22 seniors will be able to meet recent years where they quired” reports, haven’t met this requirethe requirements Spring Hill Colment. Last year 76 perlege was still listed as a member. the lack of accreditation was cent of the students passed on The department and adminis- accepted into the University of the first try. Sims explains that tration decided that the accredi- Michigan’s accounting program, since the program is so small, tation did not make a differ- which is ranked No. six in the if one more person would have ence in whether or not students nation by U.S. News. Julian will passed, or if one person who were getting jobs or getting into be working at the Big Four ac- didn’t pass hadn’t taken the test, graduate school, so it wasn’t re- counting firm in New York City then the department would ally worth it. Currently, Sims this summer. He says that he isn’t have met the requirement. He says they are in the early stages alone and three of his classmates explains by comparing the situof seeking membership in the were accepted and attended ation to a test, “if you have 10 AACSB, and will be deciding Florida International University, questions on a test you can’t afwithin the next academic year University of Miami, and Notre ford to get many wrong, but if whether or not this is a viable Dame. Sims says this is because there are 100 questions, there is option. grades and GMAT scores matter more room for error.”

Until then, Sims sees no rea- much more than accreditation.

Since the graduating class son for students of the division Many students have also had a 76 percent pass rate, the of business to fret. Spring Hill heard rumors regarding the ac- Alabama State Board of Nurs-

ing now only provisionally approves the nursing program.

Sims attributes this somewhat to students taking a “vacation,” after graduation and not being prepared to take the NCLEX in the summer, fall or even into the next year.

This means that if the senior class does not meet the 80 percent pass rate on the first attempt then the department is “subject to further action by the board.” Sims says, however, that he and the Nursing Department are confident that this year’s 22 seniors will be able to meet the requirement for a number of reasons. First of all, this year’s class was the first to complete the new, much more rigorous curriculum that was created as part of the “plan for improvement” created to raise NCLEX scores. He also says that as a part of senior seminar requirements, the senior class is required to score a 900 or higher on a comprehensive exam very similar to the NCLEX called the HESI. The correlation of the two is very strong, so it is a good indicator of how well the student will do on the NCLEX. The seniors have already begun an intensive NCLEX review, and are confident that they will meet the requirement.

Dr. Peter VanInwagen’s presentation of ‘Can Science Disprove the Existance of God?’

By KatelynGARDNER Co-editor

Photo By MatthewLABORDE

Dr. Peter VanInwagen, John Cardinal O’Hara Professor of Philosophy at the University of Notre Dame, presented the annual Suarez Lecture on Thursday, March 8 at 7 p.m. in Byrne Memorial Hall.

VanInwagen’s lecture, “Can Science Disprove the Existence of God,” argued that in order to disprove God one must have a philosophical argument instead of merely using science to prove His non-existence. The example given is science’s disproving

of crystallized spheres. VanInwagen states, “Why should science be able to show God exists,” when He is unable to be measured or seen. It is through this argument that VanInwagen differentiates between an item disproved through science and God: “There is a vast difference between God and any object that science says doesn’t exist.”

VanInwagen discussed the logical argument that challenges God’s existence, saying that God is everywhere. With the analogy

of a painting, he stated that just as creative activity is present everywhere throughout the painting so is God’s presence

“‘Why should science be able to show God exists,’ when He is unable to be measured or seen.” in our world. Students and participants questioned VanInwagen with statements that brought up scientific findings

and arguments that analyzed his argument. “God is locally present nowhere and totally present everywhere,” stated VanInwagen.

Each year, the philosophy and theology departments hold the Suarez Lecture that is free to the public. The lecture began in 1965 and was named after the famous Jesuit, Francisco Suarez. This lecture usually addresses timely issues such as the relationship between God and science.

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March 15, 2012 SGA continued

SGA Badgerweb page more interactive and updated with profiles for our members, a communication outlet with regularly submitted and archived minutes,” stated Wagner. Plans for next year include SGA’s attempt to make campus living conditions better and have direct communications to the Residence Life

dents.” Wagner said that Tanner has a strong record of involvement in SHC activities across a wide range of areas that will enable her to be on top of all areas of the platform. “Payton is also a member of Tri Delta as the New Member Educator and was a Rho Gamma as well, bringing a strong awareness of the needs of fraternities and sororities for

“Plans for next year include SGA’s attempt to make campus living conditions better and have direct communications to the Residence Life Office.”

Office. “We will continue to work for enhancements to Public Safety so that our campus remains safe for everyone.”

Out of about 1,200 students, only 384 people voted in the SGA presidential elections.

Wagner and Payton received 283 of votes, winning 76 percent of the voters’ support.

When asked why Wagner chose student Payton Tanner as a running mate, he replied, “For the past three years Payton and I have always been SpringHillian Student Ambassadors, effortlessly working together to publicize SHC for prospective stu-

Greek life to SGA and administration.”

The senatorial elections will be held on Wednesday March 14, 2012. Those who are running for sophomore class senate are Matthew Keller, Mary Catherine McKinely and Ricardo Pita. Those running for junior class senate are Kevin Macar, Kevin Smith and Stefany Carty.

Running for senior class senate is Shawn Patrick Hynes. If anyone is interested in getting involved with SGA contact Gabriel Wagner at Gabario40@me.com or Payton Tanner at patanner@ stumail.shc.edu.

Gulf Shores settles with BP for $6.5 million

By CoraALLEN News Editor

According to the Weekly Journal “The Nation,” the case Nearly two years after the does not address what may still largest maritime oil spill in go to trial. The charges brought world history, British Potroleum against BP by state and federal and the city of Gulf Shores Ala. governments. Include penalties have reached a settlement to covfor harm to wildlife and the ener future losses to the city’s tax vironment, as well as Clean Warevenues. ter Act penalties.

BP has agreed to a $6.5 A Judge in New million settlement Orleans is also set to that does not cover “ I believe for the most part that the settlement consider potential beach cleanup costs was fair. There were definitely some faults and criminal charges at a or past tax revenue, glitches in the system, but, in the end, if you later trial. only future losses The Gulf Coast in tax revenue. The were honest and had the proper documentation is still shaken by the to prove your losses you were handled fairly.” settlement proevent, and many orposal includes key ganizations like the - Kristi Ybarra (‘10) Gulf Shores business owner provisions that the Mobile Baykeep120,000 people ers are calling for a and businesses who moratorium on all brought the suit have been call- Kristi Ybarra (‘10) says “I be- offshore drilling until the entire ing for. It leaves a few areas un- lieve for the most part that the industry can prove that its opanswered, but negotiations will settlement was fair. There were erations are safe. They are also continue for the next 45 days. definitely some faults and glitch- calling for the establishment of According to ira.com BP has al- es in the system, but in the end, a Citizens Advisory Council to ready funded a $20 billion pro- if you were honest and had the oversee the oil industry’s continvision to pay claims for property proper documentation to prove ued Gulf activities. The issue of damage, loss of business income, your losses you were handled offshore drilling is becoming a and health and medical issues re- fairly.” political issue in the upcoming lated to the massive oil spill and elections. clean-up effort.

Pooliteria renovations put on hold

By BrandyJONES Lifestyles Reporter

According to Jim Hall, Spring Hill College athletic director, the decision has been made to transform the former pool into an auxiliary gymnasium. The transformation will provide added space for athletic and recreational users. Upon completion, it will include a wooden floor, six basketball goals, two volleyball courts, as well as badminton and pickleball courts. The new gym will also be available for intramurals Hall said that the extra space will allow for multiple varsity athletic teams to practices at the same time. There will also be more time slots available for intramural scheduling and recre-

ational play. Intramurals will be able to implement more indoor sports and play more games with the extra space.

During summer and spring of 2011, the school gathered feedback on preferred additions through student surveys.

Possible options were discussed with the president’s cabinet, and the long term needs for athletic programs and intramurals were evaluated. According to Hall, through these processes it was determined that turning the pool into an auxiliary gym would the most beneficial to the entire student body as well as the athletic programs.

The transition timeline for the pool is still being determined. According to Hall, the space will remain vacant until

| NEWS

funding becomes available. The conversion of the pool into an auxiliary gym has been added to the list of capital projects that the college wants to complete in the coming years. All of the funds will be raised through philanthropy and no budget has been set. The final design and cost of the structural modifications have also not been finalized. “The future auxiliary gym will be tremendously beneficial to Spring Hill College. It will give us the added space we need to expand our varsity, intramural and recreational sport offerings.

This is an important project for the athletics and recreation department, and I look forward to the day when it will be completed.” said Hall.

According to the Mobile Press-Register, Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft says the city is concerned that tar might return to the beach in the event of a storm, and the city’s revenues could suffer if the beaches close.

Recent Spring Hill graduate and Gulf Shores business owner

Heim Duo to perform tonight as part of Creagan Concert Series MOBILE, Ala. – The Heim Duo will perform as part of the Creagan Concert Series at 7:30 p.m. Thursday March 15 at the Eichold Gallery on the campus of Spring Hill College. The Heim Duo features Annette Heim on flute and Bret Heim on guitar, with Jim Lichtenberger on viola.

In this musical celebration the audience will choose the pieces to be performed. Neither the audience members nor the performers know which works will be requested. When guests arrive, they will receive a uniquely numbered menu filled with musical masterpieces from Renaissance to pop. For each course, a menu number will be

picked, and the audience member with that number will get to select which piece will be performed next.

This concert series is dedicated to the memory of the late Rev. Daniel Creagan, S.J., the first chair of the fine arts department at Spring Hill College.

Creagan taught art courses and led the department from 1961 to 1983. In 2006 he returned to Spring Hill College, where he remained until his death in March 2009.

Admission is $10 for the general public and $5 for students. For more information, contact the Department of Fine and Performing Arts at (251) 380-3861.

OPINION | 6 What is your definition of a hero?

March 15, 2012

By AllisonPATRICK Co-Editor

My definition of a hero is the woman who prolonged the life of a member of the United States Marine Corps by registering to be an organ donor. The soldier was my cousin.

Tragically, 19 people die every day as they wait for an organ transplant. At the National Network of Organ Donors, they believe that number should be zero. The numbers are surprising and heartbreaking. More than 112,000 people are on the transplant list, and the number of people who die waiting for transplants continues to grow.

According to thenationalnetworkoforgandonors.org, the number of deaths of people on the list has risen from 10 per day in 1990 to today’s 19. Sadly, the number will continue to grow unless we make a significant effort to reverse the course today.

Organ donation begins with a person who recognizes an opportunity to help others and

shares this information and decision to be a donor with family and friends.

When the person has done this they are saving the lives of up to eight people who desperately need organ transplants.

That’s eight people who won’t have to spend months or years on the transplant waiting list and will get a second chance at life because you made the selfless decision to be a donor.

As you are reading this, at least one name is being added to the national transplant waiting list. In the United States, a person is listed for a transplant every 11 minutes. That is 130 people joining per day, and currently, only about 75 people receive organ transplants each day. These

numbers can be overwhelming to understand. It may help to think of these numbers that I am talking about in a more personal way, by remembering that every number represents a person. Every number represents someone’s child, parent, sibling, grandparent, aunt, uncle, cousin or friend, and it may be someone you know.

Waiting for an organ can be a stressful experience considering the waiting period is uncertain. The national median waiting time for a heart is 115 days, to receive a liver it would take about 360 days, and for a kidney the time frame is around 1,200 days. Matches for organs are based upon the organ’s characteristics, the degree of match-

ing required, the lifespan of the organ once outside the body, and various policies specific to each organ.

The altruistic process of donation begins by performing the simple act of indicating consent with enrollment in their state’s donor registry. Most often, this occurs when obtaining or renewing a driver’s license or by going online for those state registries that have an internet registration.

The need is real. One hundred thousand and twelve people are currently waiting for an organ and 19 of those are dying each day. Enroll today, save up to eight lives and get a heart on your driver’s license LIKE I DID, and be an organ donor.

How technology is socializing our world scenario for you, this could be a red flag warning you of your addiction to the Internet.

Although most of us hate to admit it, we are all addicts.

From e-mails and Facebook to smart phones and Twitter, most of our information and interaction with others is dependent upon technology. Without a cell phone in our hand, we feel uneasy. It seems as if the Web pages are loading slower and our

By KatelynGARDNER Facebook friends are more interCo-Editor esting than our lunch tables.

Checking our phones every Have you ever stayed online for longer than you planned? It 10 minutes has become secstarts out with just a quick trip ond nature, so natural that we to Moodle and ends up becom- don’t even realize we are doing ing a two hour conversation with it. It seems normal to have your a friend on Facebook. Or what phone out during dinner or to about using the Internet as an es- text a friend while talking to cape from homework or real life someone else. Even something issues? Wait, our homework as- as mundane as a dead phone signment is due this Friday? Oh battery can be as lethal as bewell, Twitter is more entertain- ing stranded on a desert island. ing. If this sounds like a typical Could it be that we are placing

too much trust in something as permeable and dehumanizing as technology?

Walking to my dorm room I realized how hard it is to avoid my own complacency with technology. My phone alarm wakes me up in the mornings (sometimes) and my coffee pot brews warm coffee with the touch of a button. On my way to class, I continuously check the time, the weather and can’t help but take a peek at Facebook. Anything I need to know is at the tips of my fingers, all I have to do is just Google it. Even my ID card allows me access to my room. By a simple swipe, I can eat a buffet of food or lounge around in the common room. With all of these privileges that I am so used to, I could only imagine the war that would break out if the school lost access to technology.

According to nytimes.com, researchers are beginning to see

a correlation between excessive usage of cell phones and Internet with characteristics such as impatience, forgetfulness and impulsivity. And let’s face it, it will only get worse. With phone applications that keep us organized and remind us of meetings and projects, what use is there to memorize a planner? As Apple releases its newest iPad, all I predict is a greater dependency upon the objects that take us away from what is actually happening around us as we surf the Web or check how many “likes” we got on our newest status update.

Our phones are becoming so high-tech that we can now talk to each other face to face, through a screen that is. Skype and Facetime are making it possible to have virtual meetings and interact with friends and family through a new type of visual medium. When I am

“skyping” a friend, it feels more personal than a phone call and I almost forget that they aren’t sitting right next to me.

So what does all this show?

A frightful addiction to something that is almost out of our control. It’s sad how far we have come in this day and age, yet how much we still need to travel.

Although technology has given us numerous advancements, a lazy nation has also come to a rise as well.

Why use a library when there are so many resources on the Web? Why go visit your grandparents when you can Skype them later tonight? And more importantly, why volunteer, exercise or even read a book when a world of information is at our fingertips. Let’s not mistake innovation for laziness, but let us remember that with great technology comes great responsibility to not let it control us.

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March 15, 2012

| OPINION

Kony 2012: The dangers of mass media and blind support

By KieferGINGLES Sports Reporter

A little over a week ago, social activist group Invisible Children released a viral video, “Kony 2012,” which has already received over 75 million views and continues to gain blind support as appalling images of brutal Ugandan conditions are aimed straight at the hearts of sentimental viewers.

Director Jason Russell answered the question of why the video has gained such popularity in the short time since its release in an interview with TODAY’s Ann Curry: “We’re all human beings, and for some reason we forgot about our humanity because of politics and because all

these things we’re talking about have paralyzed us.” If the situation at hand weren’t so tragic, Russell’s comment denouncing politics would be comical considering his blatant disregard for conveying the true evils that plague the Ugandan setting.

Set to dramatic music, lined with tear-drawing children testimonies, and capped off with atrocious images of mutilation, it is nearly impossible to watch the video and not throw your fist in the air in support of locating and eliminating Lord’s Resistance Army leader Joseph Kony. However, the makers of the film are obviously as blind to the true problems in Uganda as the people who shout in support of “Kony 2012.”

The video disgustingly undermines and oversimplifies the struggles and intricate dilemmas in bringing peace to the wartorn country, and worse, it employs the power of a well-made film facilitated by the medium of today’s viral video mass appeal to evoke blind emotional support to a faulty cause. Invisible Children’s short, 30-minute film prompts solving violence

with more violence and severely threatens any progress that has been made toward peace in the country over the past years.

As reported by cnn.com, from 2006 to 2008, the situation regarding the conflict between the LRA and the government of Uganda looked promising. Violence had subsided greatly due to peace talks and the LRA had left Uganda. Impressively, two years of these talks cost less than $15 million. Despite Invisible Children’s presence at many of the meetings there was no video made to sway the public in support of the peace effort. Instead, they spent the time gathering emotion-riveting footage that could be compiled in an effort to evoke war.

Although the activist group’s video targets Kony as the single individual responsible for the devastation in Uganda and presents the man as the one obstacle standing in the way of Ugandan peace, the truth is that violence in the country resumed in 2008 when the Ugandan army used U.S. planning to help bomb the LRA camp.

Undoubtedly, Kony’s tactics

are indescribably immoral, but “Kony 2012” presents a dangerously one-sided view of the struggles that plague Uganda.

The video provokes viewers into veiled support of the Ugandan government; a government inundated with tyrannical and corrupt leaders. Any study in the brief history of the Ugandan government will reveal that this body which “Kony 2012” directly promotes also utilizes child soldiers and has committed countless war crimes of equal atrocity.

In fact, Michael Deibert, author of “Democreatic Republic of Congo: Between Hope and Despair” wrote in a report, “The problem with Invisible Children’s whitewashing of the role of the government of Uganda’s president Yoweri Museveni in the violence of Central Africa is that it gives Museveni and company a free pass, and added ammunition with which to bludgeon virtually any domestic opposition, such as Kizza Besigye and the Forum for Democratic Change.

By blindly supporting Uganda’s current government and its military adventures beyond its

borders, as Invisible Children suggests that people do, Invisible Children is in fact guaranteeing that there will be more violence, not less, in Central Africa.

I have seen the well-meaning foreigners do plenty of damage before, so that is why people understanding the context and the history of the region is important before they blunder blindly forward to “help” a people they don’t understand. U.S. President Bill Clinton professed that he was “helping” in the Democratic Republic of Congo in the 1990s and his help ended up with over 6 million people losing their lives. The same mistake should not be repeated today.”

So before you are persuaded to purchase a “Kony 2012'” action kit from Invisible Children’s website which boasts the selling point of “People will think you’re an advocate of awesome,” look beyond the sentimental footage, inspiring music, and impressive editing of Russell’s documentary and be sure you are knowledgeable in what you are truly supporting. It could be that you are supporting a cause that you know nothing about.

SUBMISSIONS The SpringHillian publishes guest submissions at the discretion of the studenteditors and section editors. Submission should be no more than 300 words, and editors reserve the right to edit the submissions for length and content.

Original articles should be mailed or delivered to: Student Editor Communication Arts Spring Hill College 4000 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 3660

EDITORIAL POLICY The SpringHillian is published weekly from September to May, except during examination periods and vacations. The views expressed within do not represent the views of Spring Hill College and are not the views of the faculty, administration, staff or students, but are the views of the individual columnists.

Life on the Hill

LIFE STYLE |

8

March 15, 2012

Photo by MatthewLaBORDE

Photos by BrandyJONES

Top: The SHC men’s baseball Bottom Left: Marlena teams makes the most of a rained out game by using the rain covered tarp as a slip and slide.

Martin, Shardena Jones and Amber Bowie pose with a newly printed t-shirt in the Student Center.

Bottom Right: Oshaunda McKinney listens to her iPod while working out on the Elliptical machine in the Arthur R. Outlaw Center.

March 15, 2012

9

| LIFE STYLE

Photos by MatthewLaBORDE

Throughout the week Top Left: Team “Pillow Talk” competes in SHC’s Best Dance Crew competition sporting a humorous ensemble.

Top Right: The Tri Delta’s win the SHC’s Best Dance Crew Last Thursday, March 8.

Bottom: Students brush up on their basket ball skills in the Arthur R. Outlaw Center.

Photo by BrandyJONES

LIFE STYLE | Awakening retreat transforms students

By AliciaCANDELA Lifestyle Reporter

This past weekend about 114 students traveled off campus to have a relaxing and spiritual experience.

The Spring Hill Awakening Program takes place every semester in an effort to give students the opportunity to be off campus and have some reflective time to themselves, personally as well as spiritually. SHAPe never ceases to amaze those who attend the retreat. It gives students a chance to grow closer with one another and really get to know each other outside of the Spring Hill environment.

At first, most students who decide to go on SHAPe have no idea what to expect and are often worried about their decision to attend this retreat. Sophomore Brian Delholm talks about his experiences on SHAPe stating, “I was weary at first, not knowing what to expect but it ended up being a really good spiritual experience and I also had a lot of fun.”

Graduating student Rachel Cedeck stated, “My last SHAPe was an incredible experience. It reaffirmed to me that I’m always going to be a part of this Spring Hill community.”

Cedeck, along with the many other graduating students, received her “Out of SHAPe” shirt on Sunday, commemorating the senior class’ final steps to graduation.

Every semester SHAPe brings a large group of people together and gives them a chance to focus on themselves and their current situation in life. It is a good experience for anyone with any religious background.

The program helps students become better people and presents the opportunity for spiritual growth. For those who are interested, SHAPe is offered in both spring and fall semesters. Anyone who is looking for a nice weekend to themselves should make an attempt to sign up for the next retreat in the fall.

10

March 15, 2012

Preview of the upcoming musical, ‘Godspell’

By AliciaCANDELA Lifestyle Reporter

It has been 11 years since Spring Hill College has performed a musical but this year a talented group of people under the direction of Father Campbell, associate professor of the fine and performing arts department, have decided to perform “Godspell” on the weekend of March 22, 2012.

“Godspell” tells the story of the Gospel of Matthew with a theatrical twist. Most of the scenes in the Gospel of Matthew, such as the miracles of Jesus and Jesus being baptized by John the Baptist, are included in the musical.

According to Rev. Campbell, S.J., the last musical that was held was “Happy End” by Kurt Weil and Bertolt Brecht.

Campbell explained that this musical was the inspiration for Broadway Musical “Guys and Dolls.”

When asked how the production is coming along so far, Campbell replied,

“It is going pretty well, we don’t have much time left and we have a lot to do but we are moving along.”

Campbell expressed his enthusiasm for choosing to perform “Godspell” this year saying, “I have always loved the musical ever since it came out and I really have enjoyed seeing how much fun the actors are having during rehearsals.” Jake Chase, who will play the role of Jesus, describes what sparked his interest in auditioning for the musical: “I took Father Campbell’s theater class last semester and it sparked my interest in acting again. When it came time for auditions, I promised myself that I would try out just to see how it would go. I’ve always liked acting and I was kind of upset that I hadn’t done it in a while.”

As one of the main characters of the play, Chase expresses his optimism about the musical saying, “I’m nervous but excited. I’m having a lot of fun with it and it has been a good stress reliever this semester. I know the whole cast is

there to help me out when I need it and I think so far everything is coming along greatly.”

Chase has had some theater experience before auditioning for “Godspell.”

“I was in a play in my elementary school and during my senior year of high school I was in a production of ‘No Time for Sergeants’ as well as a skit team. I also had a small role in ‘As You Like It’ during my freshman year here at Spring Hill,” said Chase.

According to Father Campbell, this might be the last musical the theater department will host for a while. “We can’t just put on a musical just to put on a musical. We have to have the talent and it’s hard to put on a musical when we do not have a music department,” said Campbell.

The opening weekend for “Godspell” is March 22-25. As the time gets closer there will be more information about the musical.

FRESHMEAT versus

1 2 3

Veterans

If you could paint a picture of any scene you’ve seen before, what would it be?

Nichols: “The beach because it’s calming and beautiful.”

Burdsall: “Dale the Bartender because I’ve never seen a more perfect specimen of man.”

If you could witness any event, past, present or future what would it be?

FRESHMAN Kamery Nichols

Nichols: “Woodstock because it would be awesome.”

Burdsall: “I wish I could go back in time and marry Mr. Darcy.”

Favorite adventure on the Hill?

Nichols: “A certain underground adventure where I left my signature.”

Burdsall: “Golf course…”

SENIOR Agnes Burdsall

11

March 15, 2012

| LIFE STYLE

APPLICATION of the

Draw Something

By AllisonPATRICK Co-Editor

WEEK

range in difficulty, length, and number of coins awarded to each player who guesses correctly. Once the drawing is done, it’s up to the other person to guess.

This person watches their partner’s entire drawing procedure and guesses the image from a pile of scrambled letters. If the guess is right, both players receive the coins.

If you love the game Pictionary and are a self-proclaimed artist then you will love Draw Something. With Draw Something there is an artist in everyone of us. Draw Something is an addictive game in which you and your partner take turns drawing a picture of one of three words There are many other features that are given. The three words of this game such as bombs that

eliminate letters and increase your chances of guessing the word correctly. Also, with the coins that

you earn throughout the game you can buy more bombs or new color selections to enhance your drawings.

The point of the game is not winning. Instead, the goal is to get the longest possible streak of correct guesses between you and your partner.

Photos provided by AllisonPATRICK

Screenshots of the game Draw Something.

Because the game is available for iPhone, Android, Twitter, or Facebook, you can play with any of your friends. But, if you get impatient and your friends take

Spring Hill College March Madness Bracket EAST

SOUTH

nEW ORLEAnS APRIL 2

nEW ORLEAnS

nEW ORLEAnS CHAMPIOn

WEST

MIDWEST

Visit www.bleacherreport.com for NCAA Tournament coverage.

too long to respond to your drawing or forget to draw back at all, there is a feature where you can play random people that

LIFE STYLE|

12

Top 5 spirits to celebrate

St. Patrick’s Day

March 15, 2012

The Thelen hoop legacy

By AshleyGAYNOR Contributor

From Irish car bombs to green beer, St. Patrick’s Day is famous for its Irish drinks. Since the Irish are commonly known for their pubs, “The SpringHillian” staff took a poll of their favorite holiday drinks to help you enjoy the St. Paddy’s Day festivities this Saturday.

Green beer

1 2 3 4 5

Beer is a popular drink among the Irish. Favorite Irish beers are Guinness and Kilkenny but any Irish stout will do you well.

Add a bit of green food coloring to the glass and you’ve got something special for the holiday.

Guinness Known as a popular Irish dry stout, this drink originated in the brewery of Arthur Guinness at St. James’s Gate, Dublin.

Whether you use this beer in an Irish stew or drink it straight out of a glass, your holiday will be filled with tasty options.

Irish chocolate Popular Irish drinks that you can make using Bailey’s Irish Cream are common during St. Patrick’s Day. Irish cream is a popular choice for such a drink, combining Bailey’s with traditional hot chocolate to give it just a little bit of an Irish kick.

Irish car bombs Pour a little bit of Irish cream into a shot glass and top it off with an Irish whiskey.

Drop the shot glass into a glass of Irish beer and down the drink as quickly as you can.You don’t want to wait too long or the cream will curdle inside the concoction and that’s just not a palate-friendly drink.

Irish coffee Mixing this hot drink on a cold day may be a better way to go this St. Patrick’s Day. Combine hot coffee and Irish whiskey. Add sugar and stir. Top it off with liquid cream and you’ve got something delicious that will warm you up from the inside out.

Photo provided by AshleyGAYNOR

The pressure is on. Jake Thelen enters the place where he feels relaxed and at ease: the gymnasium. The same place where he continues a family legacy of athletic talent. He hopes that one day his name will be remembered just as the names of the ones who came before him.

Jake, a native from Kentucky, started playing basketball at a very young age. “I probably started playing basketball when I was 5-years-old, when I lived in Cleveland,” said Jake as he reminisces on his childhood. “We had little recreational leagues when I was younger.”

Jake attended Covington Catholic High School where he made a big name for himself.

As a senior, Jake was averaging 22 points and nine rebounds per game. He later received the honor of becoming the fourthleading scorer in the Covington Catholic High School program history scoring 1,258 points in three seasons. He was also noted for setting a new record for field goals in a season with 258 and tied the record for the most field goals in a game with 17.

Jake is a very humble and hardworking player, which led him to be invited to the Kentucky-Indiana All-Star game and multiple Kentucky All-Star

games, such as the NorthernKentucky All-Star game and the Kentucky All-Star game. He became Northern Kentucky’s runner-up for “Player of the Year.”

“It was really fun,” said Jake.

“You play against a lot of good competition, and you just realize how good people are in Division 1 Basketball.”

Not only did his parents, teammates and coaches think that he was an outstanding player, but Spring Hill Men’s Basketball Coach, Robert Thompson, thought so as well. On April 19, 2011, Jake was offered a full athletic scholarship to attend and play for Spring Hill College.

Jake has been stirring up major talk with his undeniable talent, scoring at least 18.5 points per game as a 6-foot-6 starter for Spring Hill College basketball.

Thompson characterizes Jake as being “an intelligent player with good hands.”

“Coach Thompson treats me like any other player, but we’re all one team and I know I couldn’t do it without them,” says Jake with his hands rubbing up and down his arms.

Spring Hill’s student assistant John Redman characterizes Jake as a great guy. “Anyone would be proud to have him on their team. He works hard each and every day and it shows on the court. You can truly tell that Jake is a very sincere, genuine person both on and off the court.”

However, that’s not the only thing that has people talking.

Jake comes from a very athletic background. More than two decades later, Jake has become the fifth member of his family to play basketball and make a name for himself at Spring Hill. Both of his parents Jon Thelen, class of 1988, and Ashley Thelen, class of 1989, played Spring Hill basketball. His uncles P.J.

Thelen and John Defraties also played Spring Hill basketball.

P.J. Thelen was inducted into the 1,000 Point Club, scoring 1,325 points. Jake’s mother, Ashley Thelen, was inducted into Spring Hill’s Hall of Fame for being third on the women’s scoring list. “He’s a lot better than I always was,” says a proud mom as she laughs. “His dad worked really hard with him and taught him the basics.”

But Jake and his parents are not the only ones blessed to have athletic genes. Jake’s younger brother plays basketball and his younger sister Heidi plays volleyball. “My sister is really tall,” says Jake as he chuckles while talking about his sister.

“Even though Spring Hill is away from my family back at home, my mom has family in Mobile, so it’s a lot easier for me to adjust here I guess,” says Jake.

Since the drive from Kentucky to Mobile, Ala., is an 11hour drive, Jake’s parents rarely get a chance to attend his games.

But a surprise was coming to him. Spring Hill’s women and men’s basketball teams took on Auburn-Montgomery and Jake’s family showed up to support their superstar. “I was so happy that my family came and that they got the chance to finally see me play college basketball.

It was an amazing feeling,” says Jake with a big grin.

As the basketball season has come to an end with a record of 13 wins and 13 losses, Jake is now trying to get back in the swing of things academically.

“Now that the season is over, I try to catch up on a lot of sleep and homework from all of the traveling and practices. I’m trying to keep my grades up, and now I can just focus on school instead of school and basketball,” says Jake.

13

March 15, 2012

| SPORTS

Track and Field to be added as varsity sport

By MatthewLaBORDE Sports Editor

Spring Hill College will add track and field as a varsity sports in the spring semester of 2013, according to athletic director Jim Hall. The new addition to the school’s list will make a total of 15 varsity sports that Spring Hill has to offer.

The Badgers will be competing in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) conference and will join s63 other track and field teams. While Spring Hill doesn’t own a facility to host the sports, the teams will use those of neighboring St. Paul’s Episcopal school.

Cross Country head coach Joe Williams will be running the team and will be in charge of recruitment. Williams has been around the sport for 30 years and is a certified USATF Level 2 track coach.

Williams says that the programs he has been a part of have positively shaped how he coaches today: “Each institution that I was directly involved with had great coaches and people. They were very important people who were not only great coaches but had high standards and helped me develop my own philosophies today.”

Williams will also be in charge of recruiting prospective student athletes. “At Spring Hill there are very high standards already set in place, both academically and athletically,” says Williams, “We will continue operating with the same mind set and recruit student athletes who fit those standards.”

The addition of the track and field teams will allow cross-country runners to train year around. Senior Kate Imwalle believes that the new program will be a vital addition: “I think it is essential for the cross-country team’s success, and I expect that the entire team will participate in some way.” Imwalle also says that successful crosscountry teams participate in track and field. “I think

Photo courtesy of JimStenent

With no plans to create track and field facilities on campus, the school will use St. Paul’s Episcopal Schools resources.

it’s safe to say that having a track and field program is a major part of other schools’ success.”

“As primarily a track runner, I almost passed up Spring Hill because of the lack of track and field,” says sophomore and cross-country runner Claire Stewart, “But now, it gives Spring Hill more of an opportunity to dominate the University of Mobile with our ferocious badger skills and speeds.”

Some students believe that the addition will not benefit the school. “We could focus more on sports that raise money,” says junior Whitney Webre, “No one is

going to initially want to play sports for a college that doesn’t win, and our tuition is scaring off many potential athletes so the problems will not be solved by adding another team.”

Imwalle disagrees, saying: “Track and field is such a wide ranging sport that it could help improve the entire athletic program. Students participating in other sports can jump in on track and field and cross train, whether in or out of season. I think it’s a relatively inexpensive addition to the athletic program that serve a wide of variety of current as well as incoming students if it is utilized well.”

T

This week in Badger Sports FRIDAY, March 13th

BASEBALL (21) Southern Polytechnic at Spring Hill 6:00 p.m.

SOFTBALL Spring Hill at Jackson State University 1:00 p.m.

SPORTS |

14

March 15, 2012

Golf finishes second at Badger Invitational

Photo by MatthewLaBORDE

Freshman Jordan Portal scans the fairway before he tees off at the Badger Invitational

The Spring Hill College men's golf team could not hold a 6-stroke lead after Day 1 of the annual Spring Hill Badger Invitational and fell to 2nd place out of five teams as William Carey rallied to take an 11stroke victory.

Over two rounds of play, SHC shot combined scores of 297 and 317 for a final card of 614 (+38) while WCU shot scores of 303 and 300 for a final score of 603 (+27) across the 6665-yard, par-72 course.

Junior Joseph Webster of Trussville, Ala., closed with a +1 score of 145 (70, 75) for 2nd place while Carey's Nic Ishee finished even par at 144 with rounds of 73 and 71 for the individual title.

Junior Nathan Ceille of Hales Corners, Wis., finished in 6th place with scores of 71 and 82 (153, +9) and freshman Jordan Portal of Miami, Fla., carded a 158 (77, 81, +14) to tie teammate sophomore Phillip

Dugan of Lake Forest, Ill., (79, 79) for 12th place.

Junior Scott Shields of Atlanta, Ga., closed out the Badger team scoring with a +19 score of 163 (79, 84).

Individually for the Badgers, freshman Robert Bo Cox of Gardendale, Ala., finished in 7th place out of 31 competitors with a score of 154 (79, 75, +10).

Sophomore Spencer Lane of St. Louis, Mo., placed 11th with a +12 final score of 156 (75, 81) and sophomore Rickie Lee tied Portal and Dugan for 12th place with a 158 (77, 81) while senior Wyatt Esteves of New Orleans, La., was 22nd with a tally of 162 (80, 82, +18).

Junior Chris Cartmill of Chesterfield, Mo., was 26th with a +20 card of 164 (86, 78) and senior J.D. Sabio from St. Louis closed the day with a +24 mark of 168 (88, 80).

The Badgers will next play at the Lou Hart Invitational at Northwood Country Club in Meridian, Miss.

SSAC drug testing policy a waste, students say

By KieferGINGLES Sports Writer

With Spring Hill College athletics making the shift to join the Southern Sports Athletic Conference, there has been much talk regarding new policies and procedures, and undoubtedly the most popular topic is the newly implemented drug testing policy.

Although the official SSAC website says that the conference is governed by a Code consisting of three parts, one of which is the Policy and Procedures Manual, it is not accessible via the internet. Therefore, any student wishing to inquire about the specifics of the banned substance policy may have some difficulty.

In addition to this dilemma, the new policy seems to have created some animosity and concern for athletes at Spring Hill College. Coming from a past of nontesting, it has been sudden news to hear that random tests could occur at any time. There are obviously concerns of privacy and relevance by the athletic body, but the hostility toward the new policy seems to be greatly concerned with the monetary consequences as well.

“I understand them saying they are going to drug test so that people won’t do drugs because they won’t know when the tests are and I think it would defeat the purpose if they told us. However, I think drug testing would be a waste of money because it’s not a major problem and I think the people who do them are going to continue doing them even if we have tests,” stated basketball player Kristin Rogers. The capability of drug testing to eliminate the use of banned substances is certainly questionable, and the real purpose of the tests is also in question.

John Tanner, a member of Spring Hill’s soccer team, feels that the decision of whether or not to drug test should be handled by the individual schools themselves, not mandated by the conference to which they belong.

“This isn’t an NCAA school and testing the athletes is such is a waste of the little money our athletic programs have. That money could be used in much better ways.

It should be left up the coaches and teams to set up and regulate policies concerning banned substances. Although school-backed drug tests are a good deterrent to athletes, the actual enforcement of the tests would cause more harm than help because instead of using

the money to build programs and give scholarships, the tests would just waste the much needed, money we don’t have,” said Tanner.

Aside from the arguments of wasted money and privacy issues, there is the more broad concern of some students who feel that focus on the new policy has taken away from what should be the real focus of athletes; preparing to win games. “I feel like that’s all I hear now when it comes to athletics; drug testing. If that’s their focus when it comes to athletics then that’s a problem.

They either need to do something or drop it. The only games they should be focused on are the ones they are playing,” said former Spring Hill soccer player, Jade Beason.

Of course, drug testing in sports has proponents who argue its advantages such as facilitating better health by helping eliminate performance enhancing drugs which can cause long-term health issues, leveling the playing field, and presenting a positive role model to young followers. In the end, there will always be a debate over drug testing policies, but at Spring Hill, it is certain that some athletes are not on board with the new conference policy.

15

March 15, 2012

| SPORTS

Peyton Manning says goodbye

By KieferGINGLES Sports Writer

On Wednesday, March 7, Peyton Manning held an emotional press conference at the Colts’ Indiana Farm Bureau Football Center to officially acknowledge his release from his franchise team.

Anyone who has followed Manning’s career over the last 14 years surely expected nothing but class from the athlete and that’s exactly what was conveyed at the conference. The Colts’ release of Manning may have come as a surprise to many that associate the franchise with the dominating quarterback’s face. However, the decision between Colts owner Jim Irsay and Manning arrived with much deliberation and attempted compromise, but unfortunately, an agreement between the two was impossible. The relationship of the two men is impressive and the fact that they were able to part ways with such empathy is nothing less than inspiring.

In his opening statements of the press conference, Irsay acknowledged, “As difficult as this day is, it’s made difficult because of the greatness and the things Peyton has done for our city, for our state, for our franchise. There will be no other Peyton Manning.” In addition, Irsay awarded Manning with an action of utmost respect by confirming that the number 18 jersey will never be worn on the field by another Colts player. It’s hard not to like Manning, a quarterback who has maintained a scandal-free 14 year career with the same franchise, but his emotional and genuine release says even more about the man.

As the conference was turned over to Manning he began with the theme of respect, a characteristic that has been the domineering theme of his football career: “I sure have loved playing football for the Indianapolis Colts. For 14 wonderful years, the only professional football I’ve known is Colts football. Our team won a lot of games here, I’ve played with so many great teammates here and I’ve been part of a great organization here, an organization and an owner who I respect and continue to respect.”

The immediate question for some is “Why doesn’t he just retire? Does he still have something to prove?” In response to these questions at the press conference, Manning responded, “I don’t want to retire. And no I don’t feel like I have anything to prove. Nobody loves their job more than I do. Nobody loves playing quarterback more than I do. I still want to play. But there’s no other team I’ve ever wanted to play for. Nobody’s had it better than I have playing for the Indianapolis Colts for these 14 years. I just can’t say how thankful and how fortunate I feel to have played here. I still love playing quarterback.” Manning’s response was commendable and honest: he simply loves what he does, and it’s that passion and integrity that has made him the future hall-of-famer that he is today.

As hard as it is for fans to watch Manning leave the city he’s devoted so many years to, it’s even harder for Manning himself. Claiming to have his arm in better shape and working diligently to have it back at 100 percent for the beginning of next season, it’s a shame to see Manning leave Indianapolis in search for a new team, but March 13 was the beginning of the free agency period, and he has to search for a new home quickly.

As of Sunday, March 11, most insiders and ESPN.com agree that the Denver Broncos and Arizona Cardinals are Manning’s two most likely choices. It’s impossible to declare with certainty where he will end up, but the two teams were the first stops on Manning’s visitation schedule and they both appear to be great fits.

Manning personally knows multiple staff members for both teams but the Broncos have the added advantage of keeping the quarterback in the AFC, where he has played his entire professional football career. As spectacular as it would be to see Manning return to Indianapolis in an opposing uniform, the thought of him walking away with a loss is almost heartbreaking. Manning has given no deadline for when his decision will be made and he continues to visit possible suitors, but there are some certainties in Manning’s decision: It

Photo courtesy of Stock Xchange

Seeing Peyton Manning in a different uniform will come as a shock to many long time and loyal fans

will come with perks that no team wants With all the new changes to Manto miss out on; a large fan base, tons of ning’s future football career, there are publicity, and plenty of merchandising guaranteed aspects that will remain consistent: Manning will remain the poised, opportunities.

BADGER ZONE |

16

March 15, 2012

On the Spot What is your opinion on the privacy issues dealing with Facebook?

ErinBrennan

NiccoLivarios

KatieTherkelsen

Sophomore

Junior

SENIOR

“I haven’t noticed any changes, so I don’t have a problem with them.”

“I deleted my Facebook”

“Helpful, but annoying. If I wanted them, I’d look for them. ”

“I hate it. I feel like I’m being spied upon and that it’s a virus waiting to happen.”

FRESHMAN

Got something to say?

We’d love to hear it.

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Movers and Shakers ‘Movers and Shakers’ is a weekly series that highlights influential individuals on the Hill.

By MatthewLaBORDE Sports Editor

Here at Spring Hill College, we have tall Badgers, short Badgers, funny Badgers, sneaky Badgers, Honey Badgers and wacky Badgers. Then, there is also Will Kirkirkis.

Owner of a red unicycle and inline skates, Will is the epitome of a mover. He moves diligently under the oaks as he runs with clean posture among his cross country teammates, all while maintaining a perfect “left to right” swoop of his commendable hair. He moves rapidly through the backwoods of the South Alabama mountain bike trails as he shows off his patriotism with a United States of America biking jersey. And, he moves, he swims, and then he bikes in triathlons all over the city of New Orleans and Mobile. “I’m literally always running around this place.”

Native of Kenner, La., Kirkikis ran cross country and played lacrosse at his Alma Mater, Brother Martin High School, and would eventually go on to create the Triathlon club at SHC and was instrumental in the cre-

Photo by MattLABORDE

ation of the new SHC lacrosse team. He’s a business management major and hopes to one day be involved with his father’s company.

Will was named the NAIA runner of the week three times, and emerged as the leading scorer, (and the only scorer) for the lacrosse team last Sunday in the club’s first game against the New Orleans lacrosse club. Will has been to nationals for triathlon running, which means he placed in the top 10 percent of his age group in non-collegiate competitions.

Kirkikis is also involved in the community. He is a coach of a youth lacrosse for the Lower Alabama Lacrosse League. “Lacrosse is growing down here, and the head coach of the league didn’t actually know how to coach lacrosse, so my friends and I volunteered to teach the kids,” said Kirkikis. The kids range from fourth to eighth graders.

Will keeps a youthful spirit around the Hill, and it’s a rarity to see him around without a smile on his face. It’s a playful spirit that keeps him young, although he is a senior, and it’s a spirit that embodies his love for Spring Hill. “What keeps me young here is the interesting and fun people at this school, and, of course, the massive amounts of exercise I do on a daily basis.”

For a man with many interest, the one he seems to look forward to the most is good ole’ fashion down time, but being one of the most liveliest Badgers on campus forces him to keep moving. “I don’t get involved with things around here because they are resume builders, I get involved because it’s fun to me.”