Vanguard 1.23.2012 by The Vanguard

vanguard

the

Senior Bowl, NFL traveling circus arrives at Port City: pg. 13

“If it matters to the USA family, it matters to us.”

Jan 23, 2012

Deltas to be demolished; replaced with new residential facility

vol. 50, no. 2

New dorms to be modeled after Stokes By patrick herring Staff Reporter

Courtesy of USA Student Housing

Construction of a new residence hall could begin as early as May. The dorms will resemble the new Stokes Hall and will feature twostudent rooms. The new facility will replace the pre-existing Delta 1 and Delta 2 buildings.

Not even a year after the opening of Stokes Hall, plans have already been put into place for construction to begin on a new residence hall on campus. starting as early as the end of this spring semester. At the most recent meeting of the University’s Board of Trustees, members approved a plan to demolish Delta One and replace it with a new residence hall. Delta One currently houses 150 students in single occupancy rooms. The new building will feature double occupancy rooms and is estimated to result in a net increase of around 200 beds. The new dorms will be double occupancy, as mentioned, with two students sharing a bathroom, but each having a personal vanity and sink. Like Stokes, there will likely be classrooms built into the new building as well. Though it is only currently in the see DELTA page 4

Humanities smoking policy enforced By Kalyn Mcclellan JagLife Writer Students coming back to classes in the Humanities Building on Tuesday were greeted with a reminder of the University’s policy on smoking. Two campaign-sized white signs with the words “No Smoking Area” written in red were displayed in the courtyard that separates the two wings of the building. The campus policy for smoking is that it must be done at least 25 feet away from a building, and small signs are posted at building entrances. However, the policy has been ignored by many students who use the Humanities courtyard as a place to relax and so-

cialize between classes. Many students seem to be ignoring the new signs, and one student who was interviewed did not even realize they were there. Freshman biomedical science major Brendan (asked for last name to be left out) is a smoker and he said, “I didn’t notice the new signs, and nobody seems to be enforcing the policy.” Brendan said he can understand why this policy should be enforced. “Many campus clubs and organizations have their bake sales and fundraisers in the courtyard, and maybe having a lot of smokers around takes away from some of their business.” Senior photography major Molly

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Phalan said “the signs are very unwelcoming and confusing because there are still ashtrays in the area.” Some students who smoke may share her feeling of isolation, having to smoke well away from the building. Kayla Trosclair, a freshman communication major said she likes the policy. “When I come out of the building, I don’t like to have all the smoke blowing in my face.” Junior Bryan Grizzard, a mechanical engineering major agrees with Trosclair. He said that “it’s actually not a bad idea because some people don’t want to be around smoke.” Three faculty members who work in the Humanities Building were asked for see Smoking page 4

check out our digital edition thevanguardonline.com

mcclellan / contributing writer

Many students still disregard the no smoking policy in the populated humanities courtyard. There is a strong effort to curb the prevelance of smoking in HUMB.

in this issue (pg 6): Life (pg 5): Opinion /(pg 11): Sports

vol. 50, no. 2 / Jan. 23, 2012

Occupy Mobile: USA students arrested, appealing convictions After several occupiers were convicted in early January, the group plans to appeal their trespassing convictions and use different venues for political involvement. by genny roman Associate Editor

On Jan. 4, a group of 16 Occupy Mobile protestors were convicted of Criminal Trespassing in the Third Degree for an incident that took place last year in downtown Mobile. The protestors were arrested on Nov. 9 at Memorial Park, approximately a few minutes after midnight. Among the group of protestors were a few South Alabama students. One of those students, communications major Tyler Henderson, said the arresting police officers treated the protestors “like criminals.” USA student and arrested occupier Clay Parker echoed that sentiment. According to Henderson, Occupy Mobile set up camp in Spanish Plaza on Nov. 5 but were evicted on Nov. 8. That night, about 50 people from both Occupy Mobile and Occupy Pensacola congregated at Memorial Park to discuss further action. Henderson said that a few minutes after midnight, po-

lice began circling the park. Officers approached the group and ordered them to leave, stating that parks close after dark. Another protestor asked which law they were breaking, to which they received no answer. Parker said one of the Occupy members presented a list of city ordinances to an officer, and quoted the officer as saying, “I can’t read that.” The officers announced that the group had five minutes to leave or arrests would be made. Both Henderson and Parker said officers began arresting people before the five minute mark. A video of the arrests that night show several occupiers being arrested by officers, and one protestor being dragged down the steps of the memorial feet-first. Mobile Police spokesman Cpl. Christopher Levy stated that police “acted appropriately and were as professional as they could be.” “Some of [the protestors] did an active resistance,” Levy said, addressing the stair incident seen in the video, so police

had to separate protestors accordingly. Levy also stated that there are proper channels to protest in Mobile. Occupy Mobile protestors have cited certain city ordinances as being non-conducive to public protest, such as Article II, Sec. 49-36, which states that those who participate in public demonstrations done on any sidewalk in front of a public or commercial establishments shall be no less than 10 ft. apart and only six people at a time may demonstrate in front of such establishments. Since the arrests, Occupy Mobile has focused on different methods of political participation and protest. Those arrested will be appealing their convictions, both Parker and Henderson said. Parker does not believe his arrest was lawful, saying that the group could not “find a law that gives police officers the right to arrest citizens for being in a public park after daylight hours.” Henderson is confident that a jury of their peers “cannot possibly convict us of trespassing in a public park.”

Courtesy of Occupy Mobile

page three

“University of South Alabama’s Student Voice”

editorial editor in chief associate editor senior reporter copy editor life editor sports editor web editor

Cassie Fambro genny roman Matt Weaver Carey Cox Bailey hammond Jayson Curry naquita hunter

weather forecast January 23 - Jan. 29

mon

70 47

tue

71 52

wed

72 56

thu

74 55

fri

72 57

sat

68 55

sun

67 54

distribution distribution manager Johnny davis

advertising advertising manager Wesley Jackson graphic designer Brittany hawkins

management adviser James aucoin accounting Kathy Brannan

mission The vanguard, the student-run newspaper of the university of South alabama, serves its readership by reporting the news involving the campus community and surrounding areas. The vanguard strives to be impartial in its reporting and believes firmly in its First Amendment rights.

submission and editorial policies Send letters and guest columns to: The vanguard university of South alabama p.o. Drawer u-1057 Mobile, ala., 36688. or editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com letters and guest columns must be received by 7 p.m. on the wednesday prior to the Monday publication. Submissions should be typed and must include the writer’s name, year, school and telephone number. all submissions become the property of The vanguard. unsigned letters will not be published. The vanguard reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for length and clarity. letters will be limited to 300 words. letters and guest columns are the opinion of the writer. The Staff editorial represents the consensus opinion of the editorial Board, which is composed of the editor in Chief, associate editor, Copy editor, Senior reporter, and opinion editor. all members of the editorial Board have the same weight during weekly editorial Board meetings. The vanguard has a commitment to accuracy and clarity and will print any corrections or clarifications. To report a mistake, call the editor in Chief at 251-460-6442 or e-mail editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com. The vanguard is published Mondays during the academic year, except for exam periods and vacations, and is published twice each summer. The vanguard is supported in part by an allocation from student activity fees and operates in the Student Media Department of the Division of Student affairs. issues are available at most university buildings and select off-campus locations. The ﬁrst copy is free. Additional copies are $1 each.

winter has left the southeat with no plans on coming back anytime soon. we’ll start off the week with scattered thunderstorms in the morning before we clear out in the afternoon with highs in the low 70s and overnight lows in the upper 40s. Tuesday looks to be the only rain-free day in the forecast with sunny skies and highs in the low 70s with overnight lows in the upper 50s. Showers and thunderstorms return wednesday through friday as a cold front slowly moves through alabama. Highs will be in the mid 70s with overnight lows in the upper 50s. another area of disturbed weather moves through for the weekend bringing us the chance for more showers and thunderstorms. Highs will be in the upper 60s with overnight lows in the mid 50s. Meteorologist patrick Bigbie gamma 9 weather Center for the latest on your forecast, severe weather updates, and what’s going on in the tropics, find us on Facebook search “StormTeam4Gamma9Wx” you can follow us on twitter, too search “stormteam4g9wx” and find Patrick on twitter search “metwxpatrick”

vol. 50, no. 2 / Jan. 23, 2012

University police blotter Editor’s note: Have a question for USAPD? Email us at editor.in.chief@usavangaurd.com

1/5 Public Intoxication, Possession of alcohol, violation of government law, appearing in a public place under the influence of alcohol Two underage suspects were arrested near the Sigma Chi house. 1/9 Possession of Marijuana, 1st Degree A 35-year-old suspect was arrested for possession of marijuana at The Grove. 1/11 Carrying Concealed Weapon, Minor in Possession of Alcohol A 19-year-old male was arrested for carrying a concealed weapon and possession of alcohol on Jack Brunson Dr. 1/12 Theft of Property, 3rd Degree ($500 or Less) Property was reported as stolen from the Administration Parking Lot (N. Universtiy Blvd.). 1/13 Driving under the influence - Alcohol A suspect, 21, was arrested for DUI on Old Shell Rd.

USAPD: 460-6132 UPDATE: Arrests made in Mobile murder of USA student tevin Javoris Wells, 19, and Quinten Orlando godfrey, 21, were arrested Saturday night and charged with murder, police spokeswoman ashley rains said. they were taken to Mobile County Metro Jail where they were held today without bail. earlier Saturday, 26-year-old Christopher Case was arrested and charged with murder, rains said. Case was also charged with 2nd-degree burglary in an unrelated incident, she said. andrew Saxon was shot to death at

his home on university Boulevard directly across from uSa. Saxon, 25, was a junior majoring in biology, according to a university spokesman. the case is being handled by Mobile Police and not by uSaPd. If anyone has any more information on the case, please call Mobile police at 251208-7211, CrinmeStoppers at 251-2087000 or text 274637 with the keyword CrIMe 411

Courtesy and thanks to al.com

Breaking news: The Vanguard: USA’s Student Newspaper

vol. 50, no. 2 / Jan. 23, 2012

Delta demolition to make way for new hall delta, from page 1 design phase, early estimates have the ballpark cost of this new residence hall in the vicinity of $15 million. But rest assured, the construction of this building will not result in any increase in fees or tuition for students, nor will any state revenue be used. Housing, like the food services on campus, is completely auxiliary. All of the money spent on erecting this building will be recouped through the money charged for rent. Vice President of Student Affairs John Smith, cited a continual increase in demand for on-campus housing as the reasoning behind these plans being approved. “The number of incoming freshman who desire to live on campus rose from 2010 to 2011; and the demand for housing in fall 2012 is already ahead of last year’s numbers,” Smith said. With the football team and band being added in recent years, South is heading toward becoming a more “traditional” university with a stronger

campus life, and with that comes the need for more on-campus housing. If everything goes as scheduled and they are able to begin construction at the end of this semester, Smith hopes the new building could open as early as fall 2013. Smith also believes these new residence halls promote the community feel in housing, which the current model fails to provide. He says studies show these community-style buildings result in better student retention rates and even students graduating faster. “The key is to have Student Affairs and Academic Affairs working hand in hand to help students progress through graduation,” Smith said. Senior Ian McLendon believes Delta 1 functions fine and is livable as is. “I’ve lived in Delta One for five consecutive years, and I love it,” McLendon said. “It’s nice being able to back my car straight up to the door to unpack; and I enjoy my big, single occupancy room.” Another Delta One resident,

Johnathan Pham, likes the idea of a new indoor facility. “I believe the community feel will be nice, and the University could definitely use more room for housing. It also has the potential to be safer for students,” Pham said. Should this new residence hall be a success and the demand for housing continues to increase beyond capacity, there are plans to add more of these community dorms as needed. There is currently no plan to construct additional parking for this building, but Smith says if on campus housing continues to balloon at the current rate, the need for a supplemental parking area will be inevitable. Smith did say he wants to keep parking as close as possible to the dorms as opposed to some other universities where students are shuttled to housing.

Smoking still prohibited near buildings humanities, from page 1

their opinions, and although they wish to remain anonymous, they all agreed that they will adhere to any policy put in place by the University. According to the office of the Dean of Arts and Sciences, located in the North Wing of the Humanities Building, members of the Faculty Senate are working at reestablishing the policy that has been ignored. Their goal is to make the courtyard a smoke-free environment. But, just as there are two new signs designating the non-smoking area, there is also a sign that directs smokers to a permissible area. This area is on the east side of the courtyard. Although this could be seen as an inconvenience by those who can no longer smoke under the covered walkways, most of the students interviewed understand why the policy is in place, and can see why it is a good idea. However, with people still smoking in the courtyard, these new signs may not be enough to get this policy noticed.

thevanguardonline.com who all’s seen the new website say yeaaaah

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vol. 50, no. 2 / Jan. 23, 2012

Our view >>

a staff editorial

A little, patience, USA From speeding down Stadium Drive and flying over speed tables to rioting in the Chick-Fil-A line, it’s evident that the Jags have lead feet and short tempers. USAPD has directly appealed to a higher sense of reason, sending emails and posting to Facebook in an effort to implore USA commuters to be more cautious. Slow down, and don’t kill the idiot walking diagonally across the road. They’re stupid for walking diagonally, but life is precious, guys. You don’t want to pay for their prosthetic leg. It’ll cut into your Starbucks fund. The new student center food court has opened, providing a viable alternative to the Fresh Foods Co., that you may or may not be able to get to during the day. Around 11 a.m. every day, there will be a mass exodous from Humanities to ILB of students making a frantic dash to get in line for chicken sandwiches. A freshman will be Lysol-ing the automatic touch-screen at the burger studio and a senior will be pushing her out of the way because they’re already 15 minutes late to geology lab and they just wanted a damn burger. Tempers flare. Ice is thrown. Outside, sirens sound because a Tahoe mowed down a kid on a Jag Bike. We can see it now. Chaos. The reality is that it’s your reponsibility to manage your time. Rusing to get to class and speeding? You’re an adult. Get up earlier. Walking across the road? Be on a crosswalk and take out your headphones. Riding a bike? Stay in the painted bike lines that are designated for your two-wheeled commute. The traffic circle is not the newsst NASCAR venue, although that would be a fun event with University golf carts. (We’re looking at you, USAPD.) You don’t get cool points for swerving around the dumb girls talking on their cell phones in the middle of the road. You also aren’t cool to be in a group of 15 people in front of the dining hall in the middle of the road. Have a little patience, and take a lot of responsibility, USA.

opinion Editorial Board

Cassie Fambro > Editor-in-Chief Genny Roman > Associate Editor

cassie fambro, Editor editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com

Imran Mohiuddin > Opinion Editor Matt Weaver > Senior Reporter

Bailey Hammond > Life Editor Jayson Curry > Sports Editor

Jag voice >> opinion poll

Should attendance be taken at the college level? Taking attendance is great, but docking students points for not being there is unethical considering the amount of money they are paying. If I want to waste my money, it’s my own business. Take attendance so you can tell which professors are interesting and engaging to their students. Steven Arnold Sr. Honors

My absolute favorite classes are ones where the teacher straight up says you don’t have to attend if you don’t want and that passing the class is on the students. I’d waited 18 years to be considered an adult and then get to college and am told that I can’t be trusted enough to do my own work and pass my classes unless forced to go by some higher power saying, “You must be here.” Ryan Mottlety Sr. Computer Science

Punishing students based on their attendance is not conducive to the varying learning techniques of students. Some students learn more effectively outside of class in a silent, lonely environment, while others prefer to be in a classroom with a professor who is capable of guiding him or her through the information. Students have a plethora of learning disabilities and methods that can’t all be catered to by a single method of teaching. Maya Robnett Sr. Art

Rick Santorum not truly a viable candidate by Jeff Gill Contributing Writer Every eye is on the Republican nominee rat race these days. And why not? It is a very entertaining and dramatic one, with all of my favorite archetypes: the cranky has-been, the business-oriented flip-flop, the often-overlooked idealist, the social conservative weasel, and even a cowboy! The one I would like to bring your attention today is the one who seems the most inept to me: Rick Santorum. When I first learned that Santorum was running for president, the immediate response I had was laughter. I could not stop for a minute or two. At a distant time, I can recall learning of the esteemed former Pennsylvania representative and senator. The “Google Santorum” campaign, started by LGBT rights activist Dan Savage, was launched response to the anti-gay, pro-Christian-only platform Senator Santorum proudly supports. If one were to look at his platform, you would know the relative banality of its meaning. Slogans for “Faith, Family, and Freedom,” or “Traditional Family Values” are found after digging

through his 11th-grade-final-project of a website. His idea of foreign policy screams ignorance. Having an ally in Israel is fine, but lashing out in defense of Israel is usually interpreted as an act of offense to Iran, especially when Israel can support itself adequately enough. This is a major source of worldwide animosity towards America (the one thing we can still export). There is one issue I agree with Santorum on: getting America out of the red with a strong fiscal budget. Unfortunately, it is nothing I haven’t heard from any other Republican candidate or Obama, to be honest. It is obvious that he is campaigning to a specific demographic: the WASP, or White Anglo-Saxon Protestant. The way I understand it, he thinks that there is something wrong in most households that is destroying America’s values. There seem to be Christian overtones in his message to voters, and this message seems to suggest that only Christianity is correct. Fortunately for us Americans, we are more diverse, religiously and otherwise,

Courtesy of aqa.com

Rick Santorum merits research to understand his stances on policy.

than one person can ever know. To support Rick Santorum, with his strong stance on many trivial social issues, would be a vote not well-researched, so go ahead and Google him (carefully.)

To find us > search “The Vanguard USA”

jaglife

Bailey Hammond, jagLife Editor life.editor@usavanguard.com vol. 50, no. 2 / jan. 23, 2012

Most anticipated of 2012 The Books “Midnight in Austenland” (Austenland #2) Projected Publication: January 31 Set in a town where people can “live” in an Austen novel as a vacation, mystery, intrigue, and Victorian traditions abound, and love sneaks into hearts. “Rebel Heart” (Dustlands #2) Projected Publication: October 30 Sequel to widely acclaimed “Blood red Road.” Part thriller, part dystopian, all action.

“Bitterblue” sequel to “Graceling” and companion to “Fire”

courtesy townvibe.com

Depending on the season, the variety at your local farmers markets can be quite vast. However, some fruits and vegetables only grow during a certain time of year, so you may have to compromise when it comes to selection in some instances.

The proof is in the produce Buying produce at local farmers markets is good for the economy, your health and your wallet.

Projected Publication: May 1 Set in a kingdom torn apart by a terrible ruler, the people must fight for their right to heal in the wake of his death.

jake howell JagLife Writer

“Insurgent” Book Two of the Divergent Trilogy Projected Publication: May 1 Dystopian series that has taken over the YA literary world with the sheer fierceness of Tris’s story.

In recent months, signs and commercials have been urging people to “buy local.” While these advertisements have been around for years, the economic downturn transformed their whispers into deafening yells. Even the campaign speeches of the upcoming presidential election echo of this “buy local” adage, and they’re present for one main reason. Buying locally ensures that most, if not all, of the money spent on products stays and circulates throughout that particular community rather than being siphoned off overseas or even to other parts of America. According to Sustainabletable.org, Americans consume more than $600 billion in food every year. In most communities today food is purchased entirely at a grocery store or market, with only

about 7 percent of local food dollars staying in the community. An excellent way for people to make sure that most of their hard-earned money is going to stay within their community is to buy from local farmers directly. Farmers markets are great alternatives to the grocery aisles of Winn Dixie and Wal-Mart because they cut out the middleman. Farmers markets are places where local farmers gather to sell their goods directly to the people. They were once staples of town and village life and are now making a comeback in industrialized nations such as the United States. One of the main reasons for this return is a desire for organic or fresh produce, rather than imported produce. Farmers plant, see Proof, page 9

vol. 50, no. 2 / Jan. 23, 2012

“all these things i’ve done” review

Gabrielle Zevin’s take on a future society gets: bailey hammond JagLife Editor What if chocolate and coffee were illegal? What if water was rationed and showers limited to 60 seconds? Doesn’t sound like the world we know, does it? In the novel, “all these things i’ve done,” Gabrielle Zevin explores an alternate future where those mundane items are on the blacklist and anyone caught in possession of chocolate is sent to jail. It’s no surprise then that there is a black market for chocolate and the main character, Anya Balanchine, is the daughter of the mafia bigwig (who was murdered in front of her when she was nine). The story is from Anya’s perspective, told in past tense, as she’s reflecting back on her life and the sorry state of humanity during her childhood. “all these things i’ve done” is the first book in the Birthright series, and as a first in a series, it sets a great tone and pace for any books following. Zevin writes with a practiced hand, weaving a tale of unparalleled believability despite the ridiculous nature of the illegality of chocolate and coffee. Part memoir, part tell-all, part dysptopia, part romance, “all these things i’ve done” is a fresh look at what makes society the way it is and why people act the way they do when put in extreme circumstances. The politics of family, the mob and the justice system are explored with an eye to

tues > jan 24 “Archaeology at the La PointeKrebs house in Pascagoula, Mississippi” Presentation by Bonnie Gums

7 p.m. at the Alfred and Lucile Delchamps Archaeology Building

wed > jan 25

staff illustration

The minimalist cover belies the rich depth of prose contained within.

In our society, there are numerous “contraband” materials that actually do real harm to people. The so-called war on drugs is one instance where the government has cracked down on illegal substances, but “all these things i’ve done” questions the restrictive power of the government. The line between illegal and allowed substances is blurred in a way that we aren’t used to encountering.

the details often left out. Zevin doesn’t pull any punches and neither does Anya. Teenage issues are intermingled fluidly with those of the adult world. Anya Balanchine deals with tough decisions to protect her family from a dangerous world of criminals of which she is a part by birth, but it is that very resistance that brings her to realize that family is something that you don’t get to choose. Without giving too much away plot-

wise, Zevin leaves readers wanting to know what Anya Balanchine will do with regards to following her heart or the dictates of her mafia family. In all, I give “all these things i’ve done” five out of five stars. It’s well worth the read and will certainly get you to thinking about the things that you take for granted, such as chocolate, in your day to day life. That, and it’s one of the most well-written books I’ve read in a while.

goodreads.com

Prior to releasing his first full-length album, local musical anomaly Edward Appleby has released a series of EPs. The most recent was his Christmas themed collection, “Lo! The Snow in the Chimney Froze!” Prior to that EP, Appleby released a Halloween collection titled “Music for the Living Dead.” But if you’re still not sure who Edward Appleby is, well, you’re not alone. You see, Edward Appleby is not real. Edward Appleby is a stage name, and no, I’m not going to give away anyone’s true identity. Appleby regularly plays at Alabama Music Box with other indie bands. In fact, on Friday, Jan. 27, Appleby will be playing at Blind Mule with the band DAVE.

Trumpet Virtuoso Paul Merkelo Performance with trumpet masterclass

6 p.m. at the Rehearsal Hall of USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center. Tickets for this event will be sold at the door only. Admission is only $5 general and $3 for USA faculty and staff, USA students, youths under 18 and all senior citizens.

sat > jan 28 5th Annual USA Jag 5K & Fun Run

Local musician Edward Appleby releases full length album bailey hammond JagLife Editor

weekly lowdown

All ages are welcome and the doors open at 7 p.m. Fans of eclectic sounds and symphonic pop are sure to enjoy Edward Appleby’s performance. DAVE is a rock/electronic band comprised of three members: Hvarzeim, Liotta and Carl. Put the two together and you’ve got an interesting artistic, musical combination. Edward Appleby’s newest album, “The City (Waiting for the Inevitable Disaster)” not only has a cool title, like his other works, but also combines an upbeat selection of melodies with haunting vocals. His songs are sequential and easy to listen to. There’s just something hypnotic about the flow, and it is difficult at times to tell when one track ends and another begins. All of Edward Appleby’s music can be found on his website (edwardapplebymusic.com) and is released via SoundCloud.

8 a.m. Start/Finish at Moulton Tower Benefits the USA Students Today Alumni Tomorrow Scholarship Fund. Cost for pre-registration is $15 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. The day of the race cost is $20 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under. Race day registration will be held at Moulton Tower and Alumni Plaza from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. Please contact Alumni Relations with any questions at 460-7084

FLASH FORWARD mon > jan 30 Disney College Program Presentation

5 p.m. Meisler Hall, Career Services Room 2100. Hosted by the Delta Gamma chapter of Alpha Omicron Pi women’s fraternity. “This is the opportunity of a lifetime!”

tues > jan 31 Disney College Program Presentation

Courtesy DAve

On Friday, Jan. 27, DAVE and Edward Appleby will be performing at Blind Mule. Doors open at 7 p.m.

12 p.m. Meisler Hall, Career Services Room 2100. Hosted by the Delta Gamma chapter of Alpha Omicron Pi women’s fraternity. “This is the opportunity of a lifetime!” Want your event featured? E-mail the name, date, time, price, place and a brief tagline (under 7 words) to life.editor@usavanguard.com. Include “Weekly Lowdown” in the subject line. E-mails must be received at least 7 days before the event.

vol. 50, no. 2 / Jan. 23, 2012

Follow StormTEAM4/Gamma 9 Weather

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vol. 50, no. 2 / Jan. 23, 2012

the proof is in the produce PRODUCe, from page 6 grow and pick their produce and bring it directly to the farmers market at the peak of freshness. this also means that farmers markets normally only sell produce that is in season. “the quality is almost always much better. there’s a noticeable difference in the produce,” Mercy Blalock, a sophomore biomedical sciences major who buys from farmer’s markets, said Many people, though, might be skeptical about the prices at farmers markets. Farmers do set their own prices, and many times these are somewhat higher than their store-bought counterparts. according to a study done by the northeast Organic Farming association of vermont that examined price differences between stores and farmers markets, non-organic grocery store products were cheaper for nine of 14 products examined. In the same study, however, it was determined that all except potatoes were

cheaper at farmers markets in terms of organic produce. Yes, money is a precious commodity, and, as college students, we tend to have little of it. By making a few purchases at farmers markets, however, you are not only helping build your local economy but are also treating yourself to fresher, crisper and healthier produce. there are several farmers markets in and around the Mobile area. Students have mentioned Burris Farm Market in Loxley and Windmill Market in Fairhope as being excellent places to browse. there is also halls Mill road Farmers Market right here in Mobile. Located at 2245 halls Mill road, the market begins in early May, on tuesdays and thursdays from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Hey. Hey, you. Yeah, you.

Interested in writing for the JagLife section?

Send a writing sample to life.editor@usavanguard. com and you could be on your way to publishdom. And yes, that’s a word.

Come to the JagLife side. We write witty things and drink copious amounts of coffee.

vol. 50, no. 2 / Jan. 23, 2012

sports

jayson curry, sports Editor sports.editor@usavanguard.com vol. 50, no. 2 / jan. 23, 2012

Carter stands tall for Jags Jayson Curry Sports Editor Javier Carter has not reached his ceiling yet. The 6’6” junior from Texas has starred on the USA basketball team for the past three seasons, and in each season he has improved. This season is no exception. Carter has come a long way from his home in Dallas, but the one thing that stood out to him was it actually felt like home. “I took an official visit and met the coaches and my teammates, and I thought it was a good fit.” Carter said. “It gave it more of a home feel because there are four of us from Texas, and we have played against guys I played in AAU ball from back home.” Including Carter, this season’s team has four players from Texas: guards Trey Anderson and Xavier Roberson and USA’s other starting forward Augustine Rubit. After playing in 60 games and starting in 33 the past two seasons, Carter has stepped up his game and has started all 18 games so far in the 201112 season. And there is a reason Carter has gone from the first sub off the bench for Ronnie Arrow’s team to in the starting five every game. Carter has put in the hard work it takes to become and to continue to be successful in his sport. As a freshman in 2009, Carter averaged 4.2 points and 3.5 rebounds per contest. His numbers slightly improved in his sophomore year averaging 5.3 points a game and 3.8 rebounds. As the 2011 season started, Carter came in knowing that he would have to step up even more as the Jags would have an entirely new backcourt. The one thing the Jags did have to help with inexperience in the guard position was a ton of experienced big men. “It gives us some experience coming back. It’s pretty solid because it’s all returning big men,” Carter said. “This year’s team is more of a close-knit team. It feels like there is a sense of winning.” USA returned Carter, Augustine Rubit, Antione Lundy, Deandre Hersey and Andre Gowins to the forward/ center position from last season. After 18 games the way to describe

Carter’s play wouldn’t be just step up, it would be jump up. The South Alabama forward has become a huge help to his team this season. He has averaged 7.5 points, 5.3 rebounds and the even more impressive average of 3.25 blocks per game. At two separate stretches this season, Carter has blocked no less than four shots. The first such stretch started in USA’s upset win over SEC foe LSU in late November when Carter blocked five shots. He then continued his block party against UAB when he blocked seven shots and went on to block four and five in the next two games. “I just try to play with a motor, so it’s not something where I count my blocks,” Carter said. “It’s just I get as many as I can, and it seems like it’s working so far.” Carter has also brought the big play to the offensive end of the floor for the Jags. Even with a newcomer at each guard position this season, Carter and his new teammates have built a relationship and almost always play in rhythm. They have used that newfound rhythm to bring a version of “Lob City” to the Mitchell Center. Carter has brought down the house and brought the crowd to their feet with one midair pass and slam dunk. “It’s just one of those ‘feels’ type of things,” Carter said. “Since we have a lot of guys on the team that can jump, they know they can throw it up, and hopefully we will finish.” Carter is a rare breed of athlete, not only for his athletic potential but because of his willingness to put his team first. “I always put the team before myself, so I want us to not give up,” Carter said. “This team has a history of persevering, so we need to play as hard we can for the rest of conference so we can get a good seed and win our conference so we can go to the NCAA tournament.” “We have had a slow start this year but we will pick it up.”

cj bennett @CJBennett15 15h If I don’t like the cafeteria when I’m there why would I like it on Facebook....

cj bennett @CJBennett15 17

Jan #fact college campuses are home to some of the weirdest people on earth

Bryant Lavender @O_ yea_ThatKid8 18 Jan Dang I

jus ran like a Lil kid to catch the jagtran hahaha

Corey Waldon @lilwaldon_81 20 Jan N this class I think I’m gone learn how to tweet better

Corey Waldon @lilwaldon_81 South Alabama football bout to shock tha world... It’s a take ova

Drewski ︻╦╤─ @MachineGunHeavy 10m Love is a two way connection. If you like someone, tell them you do. All this waiting around, hoping the other magically reads your mind<<<

Drewski ︻╦╤─ @MachineGunHeavy 23h If anybody wants to

come help us clean up from last night.... We’re having a open door policy Bj Scott @Bj_Scott_1 No news is good news

Trey Anderson @UnoDosTrey123 Only I control my destiny but I make too many excuses for myself instead of just doing what I have to do...i gotta stop acting so helpless

G. Ellis Hill™ @Eazy_E13 20 Jan Girl still has an X on her hand from the club last night...clearly ain’t took a good shower...lmao

Rush Hendricks @_RusHen_

Mad respect for these females leaving seats beside me so I can sprawl out in class

JT Crabtree @AfroMan_USA 13h I would pay to watch Coach Pietri’s

reactions to calls/plays in games. Cracks me up everytime! I’m slowly collecting some greatest hits

Jayson curry / sports editor

South Alabama basketball’s forward Javier Carter takes a contested shot against Sun Belt Conference foe MTSU.

Justin Walker @JWalk45 20 Jan The new cafe on point.#southtweet Braden Cheek @TheCheek20 2h America has lost more than more a football coach today, Joe Paterno was a leader, pioneer, and father to many players. Joe Paterno 1926-2012

Athletics updates LATE RUN, WRIGHT GIVES FIU 65-62 WIN

vol. 50, no. 2 / jan. 23, 2012

Lady Jags fall short at home

Florida International’s men’s basketball team scored the last five points of the contest and shot 54.3 percent from the floor in a 65-62 win over the University of South Alabama Thursday night at the Mitchell Center. The Panthers also shot 63.6 percent from 3-point land improve to 5-13 overall and 2-4 in the Sun Belt Conference. The Jaguars lose their third straight at home to fall to 10-7 and 2-4. USA sophomore Augustine Rubit (Houston, Texas) recorded his league-leading seventh double-double of the year with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Freshman Mychal Ammons (Vicksburg, Miss.) poured in a team-best 15 points, but only three in the second-half. MIDDLE TENNESSEE TAKES SECOND HALF, GAME OVER MEN’S BASKETBALL Middle Tennessee outscored South Alabama 40-25 in the second half and used a solid defensive effort to defeat the Jaguars men’s basketball team 68-47 Saturday night at the Mitchell Center. The Blue Raiders are currently riding an 11-game winning streak and are 19-2 overall and 8-0 in Sun Belt Conference play. The 8-0 league start is the program’s best since 1985-86. The Jaguars drop to 10-8 and 2-5. USA freshman Mychal Ammons (Vicksburg, Miss.) poured in a team-high 13 points and sophomore Augustine Rubit (Houston, Texas) added eight points and eight rebounds. Junior Javier Carter (Dallas, Texas) blocked three shots to move into second place on the school’s career blocks list (116). MEN’S TENNIS FALLS TO FLORIDA STATE, PICKS UP WIN AGAINST FURMAN The University of South Alabama’s men’s tennis team gained a split Saturday, losing to No. 44 Florida State but blanking Furman. The Jaguars were swept 4-0 against FSU, but came out victorious 7-0 over Furman. At No. 2 doubles, senior Christian Kuehne (Morbach, Germany) and freshman Daniel Leitner (Niederfischbach, Germany) fell 8-1 to Dominic Cotrone and Anderson Reed of FSU, while seniors Hanno Bartsch (Pretoria, South Africa) and Dauw Kruger (Pretoria, South Africa) lost at No. 3 to Benjamin Lock and Andres Bucaro 8-5 to clinch the doubles point. The Jaguars open their home schedule Feb. 1 when they take on Nicholls State. - Wire Reports

Jayson Curry/ sports editor

USA women’s head coach Rick Pietri huddles him team up during a game Saturday against MTSU.

hannah blackburn Sports Reporter The Lady Jags tough and tenacious play wasn’t enough after late free throws cost them the win over Florida International University 50-48. With the loss, USA is now 117, 4-2 SBC. In the game, Mansa El had another great performance by leading all scorers with 18 points. El was 6-of-16 from the floor and also had three steals. Sarda Peterson, who is USA’s second leading scorer, was held to only three points against the Panther’s tough defense. Taylor Ammons again led USA in rebounding as they held a 48-35 advantage on the glass. Ammons pulled down 15 boards which was the highest in the game for the Jags. “We played hard, and we competed, but when you shoot 26 percent against a quality team you lose by two,” South Alabama head coach Rick Pietri said. “Scoring for us, at times, is a major chore.” The Jags were struggling with scoring over the first four and a half minutes as they missed their first seven shots from the floor. This allowed FIU to grab an early 5-0 lead. However, El was finally able to put points on the board by driving and hitting a one-handed runner in the lane. Ammons then added a pair of putbacks to give USA their first lead of the night (6-5). After the first half, USA held a big advantage on the glass as they out-rebounded the Panthers 27-18. Of the 28 boards, nine came off the offensive glass, which USA was able to convert into 10 second chance points. At one point the Jags were up 31-20 just one minute into the second half, but for the

next five minutes they would go cold missing their next seven shots. FIU took advantage of this and cut into their lead with an 8-0 run. El ended the scoreless drought, however, with a 3-point play to increase their lead to six (34-28). Slowly the Panthers began to chip away at the Jags’ lead making the deficit just two. El put the Jags up 44-43 after draining a 3-pointer but as the game clock was winding down. After trading buckets the Lady Jags had a 48-47 lead with little time remaining in the game. USA would then turn the ball over on their next possession, and Mansare was fouled by Ammons. Mansare hit both giving the Panthers a 49-48 lead. With less than 10 seconds remaining, the Panthers would make another attempt from the line. USA was unable to answer and they fell 50-48. After a tough loss to FIU earlier in the week, the Lady Jags had to play against the best team in the Sun Belt Conference as Middle Tennessee traveled to Mobile Saturday. USA was in the game almost the entire way but fell just short of an upset victory at the Mitchell Center 60-53. The loss makes the Lady Jags record 11-8 overall and 4-3 in conference play. The Blue Raiders remain an impressive 8-0 in conference and 16-5 overall. In the first half of play, both teams came out playing high energy basketball. The Lady Jags shot an exact 50 percent from the floor in the first half making 12-24 shots. The USA defense actually outshot MTSU in the half holding MTSU to only 40.7 percent but the Blue Raiders made up for it on the free throw line, making 5-7. Going into half time, the Blue Raiders

only held a two-point lead at 29-27. But the Lady Jags struggled in the second half of play shooting only 27.3 percent to MTSU’s 45.8 percent. “That’s the best team in our league,” South Alabama head coach Rick Pietri said. “They’ve demonstrated to this point that they’re the best by a stretch.” One of the biggest problems for USA in the game was the turnover to assists ration, having 18 turnovers and only nine assists. USA also had problems with their starting five not shooting well from the field. Starting guard Sarda Peterson was only able to make 2-10 shots for just five points. Also starting forward Taylor Ammons finished with zero points on a 0 for 3 shooting night. Veronical Cherizol led the Lady Jags with 12 points shooting just below 50 percent. “I felt this game was winnable, but we didn’t make enough open shots,” Pietri said. “And while I thought we were aggressive, we just weren’t able to get to the free throw line.” Another stat that stood out was USA played all 10 active players on the bench in the game in contrast to MTSU using only one player off the bench for just three minutes of the game. Four out of five Blue Raider starters played all 40 minutes of the game. The Blue Raiders had three players in double figures in points with Kortni Jones with a game high 20 points and Icelyn Elie recording a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds. The Lady Jags will head to UALR for a road game on Wednesday but will return home Saturday to face Troy at the Mitchell Center Sunday. Tip-off is at 3 p.m.

vol. 50, no. 2 / jan. 23, 2012

Senior bowl week begins

JAYSON CURRY/ sports editor

Three of the 2012 Senior Bowl athletes, from left to right: D’Anton Lynn, Jack Crawford and Quinton Coples.

jayson curry Sports Editor The start of the 2012 Senior Bowl was not exactly what most thought it would be. On Sunday, most people woke to the news that started circling the country Saturday night. The news was that former Penn State head football coach was in serious condition and Sunday news broke that he had officially passed away. As Senior Bowl players, coaches and media covering the game traveled down to Mobile, they were all hot with the news that would overshadow what the day was thought to be about. Luckily or unluckily, the Senior Bowl has two former Penn State football players on the roster for this year, and they had a chance to speak with the media in the introductory press conference Sunday evening.

After introductions by Kevin McDermond and Senior Bowl CEO Steve Hale, the two former Nittany Lions spoke about their former coach as well as the opportunities for themselves this week and in the future. First to speak was defensive back D’Anton Lynn. “I am from Texas, and I chose to go all the way to Penn State because of coach Paterno, because I wanted to grow more as a football player and more as a man,” Lynn said. “Coach Paterno taught us lessons to carry on.” Next up was defensive end Jack Crawford. Crawford shared the same thoughts of his former coach as Lynn did. “After all of this, people forget that coach Paterno donated his whole life to this program. This is a sad moment for the whole Penn State family,” Crawford said. Both players said the last time they saw

and talked to Paterno in person was the day before he was fired. “He came in and said he was going to retire,” Crawford said. “It was really emotional, and that was the last time we saw him. He told us no matter what, we would always be teammates. He wanted everybody to become a better person and a better man.” Crawford also added, “It is an honor to play against some of the best players in the country this week.” The final player introduced to the media was Quinton Coples, who played defensive line and linebacker for the North Carolina Tar Heels the past four years. Coples was announced by Steve Hale as one of the classiest players he has had come to the Senior Bowl. “It is an honor and a privilege to be here,” Coples said. “There are a lot of high caliber athletes here. This week is for us to

go out and have fun. It is set up to be fun, and it is a business.” Steve Hale commented that he was also very excited about the roster this year. The Senior Bowl has always had players come in to Mobile with the hopes of either keeping their draft stock or creating more draft stock for themselves. The Bowl offers a unique opportunity to have a week of practice with pro coaching staffs and to play with and against allstars from across the country. This year will be no exception as players from big name teams to seldom heard of universities will work to show their unique abilities on and off the field. For any more information regarding the Senior Bowl and Senior Bowl events, visit the Senior Bowl website at www.seniorbowl.com/index.asp.

Nike uniforms for seniors jayson curry Sports Editor

JAYSON CURRY/ sports editor

Nike’s Pro Combat red Senior Bowl Uniform

This year’s Senior Bowl, held in Mobile, Ala., will have a new look. Of course there will be new faces on each team as there is every year, and the rotation of coaching staffs is always different, but this year’s Senior Bowl will be different in another way. The 2012 version of the Senior Bowl will be without a title Under Armour since 2007. Following the 2011 Under Armour Senior Bowl, the contract between the sports apparel company and the Bowl game has ended. This year’s Bowl might not have the Under Armour sponsorship or the apparel they bring with them, but the Senior Bowl leaders have brought in a great replacement on the

clothing side. This year, the country’s best senior football stars will be sporting new uniforms designed by Nike. Nike is considered to be the top sports apparel company by most people, and over the past few years, Nike has come up with new designs and new technology for their sports clothing and uniforms. One of the new things Nike has done is create a line of football uniforms called “Pro Combat.” This line has only been worn by select college football programs since its creation, and now it’s made its way to the Senior Bowl. This year the elite seniors in the bowl will be fitted with newly designed Pro Combat Nike Jerseys and accessories.

JAYSON CURRY/ sports editor

Nike’s Pro Combat white Senior Bowl Uniform

vol. 50, no. 2 / Jan. 23, 2012

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dIStraCtIOnS

Weekly Quotable Quote How can a society that exists on instant mashed potatoes, packaged cake mixes, frozen dinners, and instant cameras teach patience to its young? ~Paul Sweeney

vol. 50, no. 2 / jan. 23, 2012

vol. 50, no. 2 / Jan. 23, 2012