02.11.08

Vanguard The

Volume 45, Number 25

February 11, 2008

Meet Dr. Smith, USA’s newest vice president

Mobile Arts Council hosts “Seats for Social Justice” see page 8

Serving USA SinCe 1965

Homecoming to include Bell Tower groundbreaking

Anna Chapman ASSOCIATE EDITOR amc404@jaguar1.usouthal.edu

Dr. John Smith relocated from the University of Central Arkansas to serve as the vice president of student affairs at the University of South Alabama. Dr. Smith arrived on Feb. 4 and in his first week began making plans to improve all aspects of student life on campus.

Vanguard: What specifically led you to seek a position at USA? Dr. Smith: What I heard about the institution was impressive to me. I knew Dr. Adams before I applied for the position.

In fact, a mutual friend contacted me and asked me to consider it.

V: What were your first thoughts when you arrived on campus?

S: I was impressed with the friendliness of people. It was just a very inviting campus.

V: What are some of the differences you have noticed between USA and Central Arkansas?

S: Central Arkansas is more of a residential campus than USA, but I think that's something the leadership at South Alabama wants to change in order to create more of a collegial environment. I think there is a great opportunity to create that collegial, residential environment here.

V: What are some of your short-term and long-term goals for student life on campus?

S: My short-term goals are really to get to know the staff of student services and student leadership and to identify concerns and issues that they have that need to be addressed. My long-term goals are to try and get some work done on the Student Center, which definitely needs to be addressed.

I'd like to see us do more in our food services by providing more options for our students. The same with our residence halls, as well.

We need to be asking ourselves what else we need to do in order to provide the kind of atmosphere and services that our students want and to create that collegiate, residential environment.

V: What do you plan to con-

Inside

Marzieh K. Atigh / Staff Photographer

Dr. Smith, the new vice president of student affairs at USA, has many goals in mind for the students at USA. Here he talks with The Vanguard about his improvements he would like to make.

tribute to the new Recreation Center?

S: I think it's going to be an exceptional facility; it will be a great addition to the campus. I think the key for us at student affairs is to make sure we get it staffed appropriately. I will be working to make sure we get the appropriate personnel hired and assigned to the facility to provide the services for our students.

V: Share some of your favorite memories throughout your career in higher education.

S: The thing that I've enjoyed about higher education is the opportunity that you have to impact young people's lives. I call them ‘teachable moments’ that occur almost every day. That's why I'm in this profession. I enjoy the opportunity to interact with students.

The opportunity to reorganize divisions and reorganize departments to better serve the needs of students has also been enjoyable.

Our housing system [at Central Arkansas] was not in good shape when I arrived. The opportunity to build that into a professional program and provide a lot more options for the students was something I really enjoyed.

Lifestyles pg. 6

X

see SMITH, page 19

Fine Arts pg. 8

Courtesy of USA Public Relations

The University of South Alabama will host the Bell Tower and Alumni Plaza groundbreaking ceremony on Feb. 16 in spirit of Homecoming Week. The event will take place at 6 p.m., following the Lady Jag’s basketball game at 4 p.m. Everyone is invited to this memorable event. SEE PAGE 3 FOR FULL STORY.

Students help in Service Day Sidra Rasool STAFF WRITER sr510@jaguar1.usouthal.edu

For Homecoming Week, University of South Alabama students flexed their volunteering muscles to aid in local clean-up projects.

On Feb. 9, students traveled to Hillsdale Middle School in an effort to revitalize its time-worn walls and neglected grounds.

Some of the cleanup activities included painting the sidewalk curbs, repainting the main halls, trimming hedges and trees and tailoring the overall grounds and courtyards.

Around 240 students from South Alabama student organizations, ranging from the Greeks to the honor societies, and even the ROTC, showed up to lend a hand, according to Circle K Advisor Barbara Shirvanian.

Cleaning up USA’s campus has been somewhat the tradition for Homecoming Week for the past 4 years, but this year students decided to expand their service horizons a bit to Hillsdale Middle.

"It's a better way to reach out in the community, rather than just limiting Homecoming services to on-campus,” Jeoffrey Triggs, president of Circle K International Club, said. “Plus, it's a way to stir things up a bit for Homecoming activities."

"It's creating a better learning environment for the children and future students, and that's all that

Entertainment pg. 10

The Vanguard P.O. Drawer 25100 Mobile, Ala. 36688 Newsroom - 460-6442 Fax 414-8293 Advertising - 460-6898 Letters, press releases, announcements - vanguard@jaguar1.usouthal.edu

Sports pg. 12

Sidra Rasool / Staff Photographer

USA students help clean the campus of Hillsdale Middle School for Homecoming Service Day, Feb. 9. More than 240 students showed up to aid in the effort.

matters," Alicia Johnson, a nursing major in Chi Omega, said.

Opinion pg. 16

Classifieds pg. 19

Vanguard online The

http://www.usavanguard.com

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The 411 to Homecoming 2008 Vanguard Staff Reports vanguard@jaguar1.usouthal.edu

WEATHER

The University of South Alabama will celebrate Homecoming 2008 on Saturday, Feb. 16, with a public groundbreaking ceremony and fireworks show for the University’s new Bell Tower and Alumni Plaza.

The 6 p.m. event will take place between the Lady Jags and Jaguar Men’s basketball games against Florida Atlantic University.

The Bell Tower and Alumni Plaza will create a landmark in the center of USA’s main campus. The plan includes architectural elements designed to honor the University’s history and encourage the facility’s incorporation into campus life and celebrations.

“The University of South Alabama Bell Tower will be a symbol of unity for our faculty, staff, students, alumni and supporters, as well as an important icon reflecting both the growing strength of the University and the ever-increasing positive impact USA is having each day on the people it serves,” said USA President Gordon Moulton. “The Bell Tower will become a campus focal point that students and alumni can use for important moments and significant events in their lives.”

During the Homecoming basketball games, the University will be honoring with complimentary tickets special guests including: all USA alumni; kindergarten through 12th grade students, teachers and administrators from Mobile and Baldwin counties and all other area counties; and all USA students and employees. Tickets are available for the Lady Jags game at 4 p.m. and the Jaguar Men’s game at 7 p.m.

Each honored guest is eligible for up to 10

complimentary tickets. (Please see below for ticket details.)

The Bell Tower and Alumni Plaza groundbreaking ceremony at 6 p.m. will include performances by USA’s pep band, cheerleaders and dance team. The event will feature the unveiling of a 30-foot-tall rendering of the Bell Tower. Once completed, the new tower will stand more than 130 feet high at a site just west of the Mitchell Center and the Jaguar sculpture.

Hundreds of balloons will be lifted to 130 feet in order to illustrate the height of the Bell Tower. A free fireworks show will cap off the festivities.

The project includes arbors, water gardens and the beautiful 130-foot clock tower, which will feature an electronic bell carillon.

In addition, an open-sided, multi-purpose activity space under the tower will seat 142. An open-air amphitheater will encourage outdoor classes and performances. Walls of Honor underneath the tower will list key individuals who have led the University, including: University presidents; board of trustees chairs; National Alumni Association presidents; Student Government Association presidents; and Faculty Senate chairs. All lifetime members of the USA National Alumni Association will also have their names listed on one of the historic walls.

Other Homecoming Activities: The USA National Alumni Association also will sponsor a Jag 5K Run at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 16, on campus. The event is open to the public. For more information, call (251) 460-7084.

Registration forms are available at McCoy Outdoor Company, 3498 Spring Hill Ave., until noon on Thursday, Feb. 14.

An alumni reunion reception will be held at 5:15 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 16, at

Alumni Hall. For reservations, call (251) 460-7084, or e-mail alumni@usouthal.edu.

The celebrated reunion classes for this Homecoming are as follows: 1968, 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003 and 2008.

The announcement of homecoming king and queen will take place at half-time during the men’s basketball game Feb. 16.

The court will be announced at the Lady Jags game at 4 p.m. and also at the men’s game.

Ticket and Parking Details: Free USA Football T-shirts will be given away at the games. The first 300 people at the Lady Jags game will get free shirts, as will the first 1,000 at the Jaguar Men’s game.

All Homecoming events are free and open to the public except the basketball games.

Because record crowds are expected for the games, tickets should be picked up early. Tickets may be purchased at the Mitchell Center ticket office from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. General admission to the Lady Jags games is $5 for adults and $3 for teenagers and senior citizens.

Children 12 and under are admitted free.

At the Jaguar Men’s games, tickets are $12 on the lower level and $5 on the upper level, with $3 tickets for students ages 617. Children 5 and under are free.

Each honored guest is eligible for up to 10 complimentary tickets. Tickets for larger groups of honored guests are available by calling the USA Office of Public Relations at (251) 460-6211. Guests can pick up their complimentary tickets early at the Mitchell Center ticket office weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or at Alumni Hall from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Or, X

see HOMECOMING, page21

University of South Alabama’s Student Voice Mission The Vanguard, a student-run newspaper at the University of South Alabama, serves the student 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: Opinion Editor, vanguard@jaguar1.usouthal.edu or The Vanguard, University of South Alabama, P.O. Drawer U-25100, Mobile, Ala. 36688. 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. z 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. z The Staff Editorial represents the majority of the Editorial Board, which is composed of the Editor in Chief, News Editor, Opinion Editor and Lifestyles Editor.

All members of the Editorial Board have the same weight during weekly Editorial Board meetings. z 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 email vanguard@jaguar1.usouthal.edu. z

The Vanguard is a member of Collegiate Presswire and U-Wire, which syndicates to a national audience.

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EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief: Jason Shepard Managing Editor: Leigh Patton Associate Editor: Anna Chapman Lifestyles Editor: Ashley D. McGee Fine Arts Editor: Ashley Gruner Entertainment Editor: Stephanie A. Hudson Opinion Editor: Matt Flanagan Sports Editors: John Kenny, David Hopper Senior Reporters: Hannah Skewes, Devi Sampat Copy Editor: Jeremy Daughtry

DISTRIBUTION Distribution Manager: Jolyn Picard Distribution: Brandon Phillips

ADVERTISING STAFF Advertising Manager: Glen Aikman Assistant Advertising Manager: Patrick Senn Graphic Designers: Jennifer Manning, Rajesh Chindurala

MANAGEMENT Adviser: Robert Holbert Accounting: Kathy Brannan

Web site: http://www.usavanguard.com Mailing Address The Vanguard University of South Alabama P.O. Drawer U-25100 Mobile, Ala. 36688 Article XIV, Section 8 of The Lowdown: The editors of the student publications shall be free from any type of censorship and shall be responsible for the form, content and staff of the publication.

SPLC Statement: The Vanguard recognizes and affirms the editorial independence and press freedom of all student-edited campus media. Student editors have the authority to make all content decisions and consequently bear the responsibility for the decisions that they make.

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CAMPUSGRIPES To voice your campus gripes or praises, e-mail us at campusgripes@yahoo.com, or anonymously mail us at The Vanguard, U-25100, Mobile, Ala., 36688

Fee increase is an outrage The recent approval of an increase of $150 in overall tuition fees among students in effect for fall semester 2008 is outrageous.

The increase in a tuition fee affects all students, but this decision was not made known to all the students in the first place. Why wasn't there any voting/survey posted or e-mailed to all the students? A mere figure of 2,300 students who voted in favor of this decision does not take into account to write off all the students in the University. We come to the University to study, not to support your entertainment. It is the students who pay for the tuition fee, not the board of trustees.

Flyer litter problem continues I agree with the comments about the advertising flyers. Plus, nine times out of 10, a student will drop these flyers on the ground after removing them from his or her vehicle, contributing more to the already horrific litter problem that exists in the dorms.

USA and/or the housing department should put a stop to this, instead of passing the buck to the grounds department for clean up.

Use your blinker sign I get annoyed each day that I see people on campus not using their blinker. It’s so annoying when I have no idea which way they are turning and they suddenly slow down. Come on, people. Have some common courtesy.

Raquetball courts are awesome I’ve recently been playing raquetball at South, and I have really enjoyed. The only complaint I have is that they update their equipment. The racquets they lend out are so outdated and are falling apart. Could be get some new ones please?

Homecoming, here we come I am so excited about the Homecoming events that are coming up. It has been fun so far participating in the competitions this past week.

Now that things are really rolling, this is going to turn out to be a great week and a fun weekend.

February 11, 2008

And then there were 5 McCain captures front-runner status; Clinton and Obama remain in a virtual tie T.R. Risner STAFF REPORTER wxman08@yahoo.com

On Feb. 5, better known “Super Tuesday,” Alabama voters cast their ballots for the Republican and Democratic nominees for the 2008 presidential elections, with Gov. Mike Huckabee Mike Huckabee (RArk.) and Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) winning the popular vote in Alabama.

On the Republican side, 21 competitions were held. On the Democratic side, Super Tuesday also saw priJohn McCain maries and caucuses across 22 states.

“It’s tough for this Razorback to say things like ‘Roll Tide Roll,’ but I’m doing it tonight,” Huckabee said. “I might even be singing ‘Rocky Top’ before the night is Ron Paul over.”

Huckabee won the West Virginia caucuses after John McCain told his supporters to back Huckabee in that state’s convention.

Huckabee also captured victories in Arkansas, Georgia and Tennessee. Huckabee’s strong showing was a bit of a surprise, as most analysts thought Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.)

Hillary Clinton and Gov. Mitt Romney (R-Mass) would be battling it out for Republican front-runner status. Instead McCain had a decisive night with Huckabee playing the roll of the spoiler.

Romney won seven Barack Obama states on Super Tuesday.

McCain won nine states, including the delegate-rich states of California, Illinois, Missouri, New York and New Jersey. By the end of the day, McCain amassed a total of 707 delegates; Romney, 294; Huckabee, 195; and Ron Paul, 14, making McCain the clear front-runner. To capture the Republican nomination, 1,191 delegates are needed.

“We might have become a little closer to the day that mothers in Arizona can tell their children that someday they could become president of the United States,” McCain said.

On Feb. 7, Romney dropped out of the race citing the near-mathematical impossibility of a comeback and the need to focus

on uniting the Republican Party going into the presidential race against the Democrats.

“If this were only about me, I’d go on, but it’s never been only about me. I entered this race because I love America, and because I love America in this time of war, I feel I have to now stand aside, for our party and for our country,” Romney said.

Huckabee and Paul vowed to stay in.

On the Democratic side of the aisle, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton ended the night just about the same way it started – in a very tight race.

Alabama Democratic favorite Obama won 13 states on Super Tuesday. Clinton was victorious in eight, including California and New York. Results in New Mexico are still being processed.

In spite of winning more states, Obama ended Super Tuesday behind Clinton in the delegate count. By the end of Super Tuesday, Clinton amassed 1,045 delegates; Obama, 960. To capture the Democratic nomination, 2,025 delegates are needed.

Kansas, Louisiana and Washington held Republican primaries or caucuses on Feb. 9.

Huckabee captured the popular vote in Kansas and Louisiana. McCain edged out Huckabee and Paul in Washington.

McCain maintains a commanding lead with a total of 723 delegates. Huckabee’s delegate count is 217.

Obama swept the Feb. 9 Democratic competitions in Louisiana, Nebraska and X

see CANDIDATES, page 19

Learn the Financial Aid Maze Can I drop classes and not affect my future aid?

You must earn 75% of all classes attempted at USA. For example, if you attempt 12 hours one term, you must earn satisfactory grades in at least 9 hours.

Learn more at www.southalabama.edu/finaid

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USA students nominated for Barry Goldwater Scholarship Devi Sampat SENIOR REPORTER dss608@jaguar1.usouthal.edu

Three USA students have been nominated this year for the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship, a program for students who major in mathematics, engineering or the sciences and plan for a career in research.

The University of South Alabama's Goldwater Scholarship Committee nominees are mechanical engineering major John Maher, mathematics major Jackie Rauch and mechanical engineering major Carmen Zirlott.

The Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Program was authorized by the United States Congress in 1986 to honor Senator Barry M. Goldwater, a statesman and soldier for the United States.

The main goal of the scholarship is to alleviate the current shortage of qualified scientists, mathematicians and engineers.

Founders attempt to provide a continuing source of highly qualified individuals to those fields of academic study and research.

The criteria for the scholarship are that four-year institutions are eligible to nominate up to four students who are in their sophomore or junior year during.

Each scholarship covers eligible expenses for undergraduate tuition, fees, books and room and board, up to $7,500 annually.

Junior-level scholarship recipients are eligible for a maximum of two years of scholarship support, and senior-level scholarship recipients are eligible for a maximum of one year of scholarship support.

Nominees for Goldwater Scholarships must include a statement of interest in a career in mathematics, the natural sciences

or engineering, detailing how their academic program and their overall educational plans will prepare them for their chosen career goal.

Students must also fill out an extensive application, provide three recommendations and provide supporting documents such as transcripts.

Then, each participating institution must appoint a faculty representative to serve as liaison between the institution and the Foundation by publicizing the scholarship program on campus, soliciting faculty recommendations and helping nominees prepare for the competition.

The USA Goldwater Scholarship Committee is comprised of Dr. Anne Boettcher of biology, Dr. Gene Cioffi of chemistry, Dr. Bob Coleman of the Honors Program, Dr. Frank Donovan of engineering, Dr. Paul Helminger of physics, Dr. Sytske Kimball of meteorology, Dr. Mike Spector of biomedical sciences, Dr. John Steadman, dean of engineering, Dr. Sally Steadman of arts and sciences, and Dr. Bin Wang of mathematics. All helped to pick the three USA nominees.

“Being nominated for the Goldwater Scholarship is quite an honor,” committee chair Dr. Bob Coleman said. “This is a competitive process.”

The three nominated students will find out whether or not they will be awarded one of the approximately 300 Goldwater Scholarships granted each year by the trustees.

“I was really happy to hear that I was nominated for this scholarship because it is very prestigious,” sophomore John Maher said. “I’m not going to get my hopes up too high, but even if I don’t make it to the finals, it is still a very good honor.”

Welcome JAGTRAKS Registration Guide

Amphitheater is coming soon Tyler is 15 years old and is completing this venture to fulfill his Eagle rank requirements hks502@jaguar1.usouthal.edu in Boy Scouts before his 18th birthday.

As the University of South Alabama conHe is hoping for support from USA stutinues to add buildings and innovative addi- dents to help build this project from the tions to campus, the English department and ground up. the Boy Scouts of America are aiding in the All materials and funds are donated, and expansion process. all laborers are contractKaren Peterson, an ed on a solely volunteer “I expect that the majority of instructor in the basis , since this is an English department, the volunteers will be students Eagle Project, according and her son Tyler, to Tyler. at the school and other Boy took on a project of "I expect that the Scouts from my troop, and I building an amphithemajority of the volunalready have many that are atre for the College of teers will be students at Arts and Sciences. the school and other Boy waiting on the work days.”

Tyler is a part of - Tyler Peterson Scouts from my troop, the Eagle Scout group and I already have many in the Boy Scouts of that are waiting for the America in Mobile. work days," Tyler said. "The majority of the The purpose of the amphitheatre would materials will be donated, but cash donations be to function as an outdoor classroom for are also necessary for materials that are not teachers and students who would choose an donated.” alternative to studying and lecturing in a typ“Because I am at the beginning of the ical indoor, cinderblock-encased classroom. building process, I am still looking for addiThe University and the dean of the tional volunteer workers and donations to College of Arts and Sciences, David help the cause."

Johnson, have already approved this endeavHolding outdoor classes is a tactic often or. employed for breaking up the day-to-day "The University has approved it as my son teaching routine. For students and for teachTyler's Eagle Scout project. He owes a spe- ers wishing to utilize the facility, it could cial thanks to Dean Johnson, [USA] prove to be a breath of fresh air.

President Moulton and Dr. Covey for that," "I think it sounds like a really cool idea," Peterson said.

X see AMPHITHEATER, page 19

Hannah Skewes SENIOR REPORTER

N Replaces the Schedule of Classes N Contains all the information needed to prepare for advising and registration N Course listings no longer included.

Access up-to-date course listing with current section information and availability on PAWS at http://paws.southalabama.edu Office of the Registrar Meisler Hall, Ste. 1100 (251)460-7227 registration@usouthal.edu

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Ashley D. McGee Lifestyles Editor ladypoeticsoul@aol.com

February 11, 2008

Just a thought ...

Ashley D. McGee LIFESTYLES EDITOR ladypoeticsoul@aol.com

Blessed to have found my purpose in life at a young age, I have known that being a writer was my calling for most of my life.

My passion for writing in a way that not only informs my readers but also forces them to feel the meaning behind each meticulously chosen word, undoubtedly stems from my love for reading.

I learned early in life that being able to check a book out of a library that contained an accurate account of the malicious and violent acts which my people were subjected to throughout history was not always possible; it is truly a privilege.

Fortunately, several educators throughout history became pioneers in the fight to get the truth about the treatment of AfricanAmericans published in newspapers and journals across the country.

They were determined to force feed the facts behind the lynchings, rapes and murders of African-Americans into the homes of political leaders, as well as the common man and woman, so they could no longer hide behind their blanket of ignorance on the matter. The legendary Ida B. WellsBarnett was one of them.

Born the daughter of slaves in Holly Springs, Miss. in 1862, Wells was surely thought to have the same fate as her elders.

To the surprise of many, the unforeseen civil rights and suffrage activist became one of the most influential journalists of her time.

During the Reconstruction Era, Wells attended Shaw University after Emancipation made it legal for AfricanAmericans to be educated and began teaching at the tender age of 14. At the age of 22, she moved to Memphis, Tenn. and continued her work as a school teacher while attending Fisk University. The racial injustice she endured while on a train ride in Tennessee led Wells to pursue a career in journalism in an attempt to expose racism towards African-Americans in Southern states.

After publishing several controversial articles on racial injustice, her teach contract was not renewed. Though teach was Wells’ first passion, her banishment from teaching in schools did not stop her from continuing to enlighten the masses.

Following the 1892 lynchings of three African-American businessmen who were close associates of hers, Wells wrote a series of in-depth editorials on the tragedies.

Wells wrote that “There is, therefore, only one thing left to do: save our money and leave a town which will neither protect our lives or property, nor give us a fair trial in the courts, but takes us out and murders us in cold blood when accused by white persons."

These words ignited a fire which had X

see WELLS, page 19

Students attempt to rebuild LASA on campus

Latin American Student Association looking to gain student interest

Jamie Ramseur STAFF WRITER jlr601@jaguar1.usouthal.edu

Being such a diverse campus, it is a little surprising to some students that the Latin American Student Association is not an up-and-running organization.

An organization not only open to students of Latin descent, LASA definitely has a lot to offer. LASA’s purpose it to encourage the spirit of unity among its members, promote the cultural and traditions of the different Latin American countries and help its members adjust to the university environment.

It has been said that in previous years LASA was one of the largest student http://www.clubs.psu.edu/lasa organizations on campus, being compared Members of the Latin American Student Association at Penn State gather for a picture at their annual in size to the African-American Student picnic. Students at the University of South Alabama are trying to gain student interest in rebuilding the Association. In recent years, the organiza- once highly active Latin American Student Association. tion participated in the USA Spring Festival that is sponsored by the Council of dance felt there was no need to proceed about her recent struggles with membership recruitment. the International Student Organizations. with the meeting.

Others saw this attempt not as a failure According to Morris-Diaz, LASA has LASA was also very active in Mobile's International Festival, as well as the but as a challenge to go full force in pursu- many supporters, such as Brenda Hinson ing the reorganization of of the international admissions departHispanic Festival at LASA. ment. Hinson has always been quite supSpring Hill College.

“I am so happy that portive of LASA students as well as all of In an attempt to “I’ve been trying really LASA is getting recog- the other international students. It is left rekindle these close said Cobb. up to the students to participate. bonds with the commu- hard, but I don’t know what nized,” Current members of LASA encourage nity, several USA stu- else to do to get students “Having lived in several Latin countries, I have a students to at least come out to an interest dents have been trying involved.” special interest in this meeting and see what they have to offer, or to rebuild the organiza- Tania Morris-Diaz group, and I am confident if LASA ever has a table in the Student tion. they will again succeed.”

Center Breezeway, just stop by.

A mass e-mail was Tania Morris-Diaz, a senior and the Any further meetings and updates sent to USA students via their University e-mail accounts on Jan. 22 from Director daughter of LASA’s current advisor, Dr. about the club will be sent via students’ of Campus Involvement Sally Cobb Stephen Morris, has been diligently work- University e-mail address. For further informing students of an interest meeting ing towards getting the organization back information, stop by the office of campus involvement. which was held on Jan. 31 in the Student to where it used to be.

“I've been trying really hard, but I don't Center. Unfortunately, only five students were in attendance. With the dishearten- know what else to do to get students ing lack of student support, those in atten- involved,” stated Morris-Diaz when asked

IGNITE aims to enforce smoking rules, not make smoke-free campus the buildings. The students are looking at the strategies of other universities that restrict smoking or have banned it altogether. amc404@jaguar1.usouthal.edu "What we're working on right now is putting together a presenA student organization called IGNITE is striving to prevent tation to show to various organizations on campus," Baghaei said. non-smokers from being exposed to cigarette smoke around cam- "We have to have evidence that the 25-feet rule is being broken pus. The president of IGNITE, Sara Baghaei, insists that the and also present a possible solution."

IGNITE is a nation-wide organization that prominently exists group is not trying to get smoking banned on campus.

"A big misconception that may have come across is that we're in the North. South Alabama's chapter and Auburn University's against smokers. That's not true at all; we're not trying to bully chapter are the only two Southern components of IGNITE. Baghaei said that the group will meet in smokers. We would love their support," the month of February, but a specific date Baghaei said.

“A big misconception that may has not been set. IGNITE does not require Instead, IGNITE is simply trying to enforce the rule against smoking within 25 feet of have come across is that we’re any membership dues. The national Web buildings. There are no-smoking signs on near- against smokers. That’s not true site is http://www.ignitegeneration.org and the USA chapter can be reached via ely all of the buildings on campus, yet students at all; we’re not trying to bully mail at ignitesouthalabama@gmail.com. can often be seen completely disregarding the Baghaei is very optimistic about the restrictions. smokers.”

The members of IGNITE would like to see - Sara Baghaei group's goals and believes that an agreement can be reached that will satisfy both a specific area set aside for smokers, and smokers and those that prefer to avoid secBaghaei believes that "a smoke-free campus would be ideal." Baghaei received a couple of e-mails from smok- ond-hand smoke.

"We are taking any kind of support or information that anyone ers that are willing to join the club and even adhere to a designatwants to give, whether smoker or non-smoker," Baghaei said. "If ed smoking area if one were to be set aside.

IGNITE's immediate goal is to enforce the 25-feet rule around anyone wants to know more, I would love to hear from them."

Anna Chapman SENIOR REPORTER

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Window painting contest kicks off Homecoming Do your part Justin Washington

STAFF WRITER justintwashington@yahoo.com

Homecoming is considered by many to be the most celebrated week-long event of the year, as all facets of University life are involved in this winter celebration. It brings about competition, rallies, parties, tailgating and is undeniably a time when the entire student body can come together despite their difference and act as one.

This type of unity was evident at this year’s window painting contest.

On Feb. 8, student organizations gathered at the Student Center Amphitheater for the annual window painting contest.

From 11 a.m. until around 3 p.m., students worked hard non-stop, hoping their artistic abilities could bring their school spirit to life on the windows of the Student Center.

The window painting competition is a long-running tradition at the University of

Ashley D. McGee / Lifetyles Editor

Alpha Epsilon Delta’s suspenseful artwork (right) received first place honors for the nonGreek/independent organizations category at the 2008 Homecoming window painting contest.

South Alabama and is designed to give Greek and independent organizations the chance show off their artistic talents while incorporating the Homecoming theme.

Each organization hopes to dazzle the judges enough to prove their dominance and win first place for the spirit award. At the end of the Homecoming activities, one Greek and one independent organization will receive first place recognition as the leaders in school spirit.

This year’s window painting contest was a site to see. Students were scattered about the amphitheater with one thing on their minds: “On The Prowl,” the Homecoming theme. Paint was flying, and people were laughing and playing as masterpieces were being made. It was just a bona fide representation of school spirit at its best. The pride everyone had in his or her creations was so thick it could almost be felt in the air. Everybody was joyous and playful but at the same time determined to leave knowing that each had done his or her perAshley D. McGee / Lifestyles Editor sonal best.

Alpha Epsilon Delta received first place This extraordinary window design by Chi honors for the non-Greek/independent Omega sorority won the first place ribbon in the organizations. Their interpretation of the Greek category at the 2008 Homecoming winHomecoming theme was right on point; a dow painting contest. jaguar was sitting, lurking about in the jungle shrubs while waiting on his prey so he Phi. African-American Student Association could pounce down on it. They truly got member and artist behind the organizathe idea with their work.

To cap things off for the independent tion’s contest design DeAnthony Dulaney competition, Baptist Campus Ministry was inspired by the Jags’ determination to received second place honors, while “devour” the competition.

“It show no signs of Students Today Alumni losing, ever! Also, I just Tomorrow received third.

“It gives every organiza- love to draw and am a The first place winner member of for the Greek competition tion a great opportunity to proud was Chi Omega, who also come together and fellow- AASA so, I was happy to lend a hand.” said hit the theme on the head ship as one.”

Dulaney. with their window pane - Siara Smith Siara Smith, a proud delight. They developed a member of AASA, statbreathtaking sketch of a ed, “This is my first time jaguar grasping an owl with one hand. This represents our reign doing something like this, and it is really over our upcoming Homecoming oppo- fun! It gives every organization a great nent, Florida Atlantic, and shows that we opportunity to come together and fellowtake no mercy when it comes to competi- ship as one and shows true unity and tion. Coming in with second and third school pride.” were Alpha Omicron Pi and Pi Kappa

Mortar Board accepting new members this week

Chapter has donated books to local libraries that were damaged

by Hurricane Katrina and also volunteered at the Mobile Public vanguard@jaguar1.usouthal.edu Library.

This week, University of South Alabama students have the On Feb. 15, Mortar Board will be hosting the Top Prof. opportunity to become a part of a group that boasts members Banquet for its members and their favorite professors. This such as Condoleeza Rice, Lance Armstrong, Sandra Day annual event is an opportunity for students to honor professors at O’Connor and Rudolph Guilliani. What do these famous and the University who have made contributions both in and out of successful people have in common? They are all members of the classroom. the Mortar Board National Senior Honor Society, a society that There are many benefits to becoming a member of this outrecognizes college seniors for exemplary standing honor society. Not only do memscholarship, leadership and service. bers receive academic recognition from the The Azalea Chapter of Mortar Board at “Because members continue University, they also have access to thousands South Alabama is celebrating “Mortar to contribute to the campus and of dollars in scholarships and fellowships, Board Week” and is currently looking for career and graduate school networking procommunity, they continue to outstanding new members. This year marks grams, discounts in KAPLAN courses, and grow in all aspects of their life.” insurance specials. There are also numerous the 90th anniversary of the national honor society and the 39th anniversary of South opportunities, including a trip to - Sally Cobb leadership Alabama’s Azalea Chapter. the annual Mortar Board National Members of the Azalea Chapter particiConference. pate in many community service activities throughout the year.

Of course, not all benefits of membership are tangible, yet This academic year, they have participated in the Africanthey are just as valuable. Sally Cobb, the director of campus American Student Association Fall Festival, the Christmas Tree involvement and Mortar Board chapter advisor, explains the Contest, a St. Mary’s Home Christmas Party, Trick-or-Treat for value of these benefits.

Books, and several canned food and blood drives. Mortar Board “Because members continue to contribute to the campus and ís a national project with a literacy campaign called “Reading is community, they continue to grow in all aspects of their life, Leading.” In order to promote literacy in our area, the Azalea X see MORTAR BOARD, page 21

Holly Peek

STAFF WRITER

by going ‘green’ Ryan Doe CONTRIBUTING WRITER vanguard@jaguar1.usouthal.edu

Now that Mardi Gras has come and gone, I have been thinking hard about what I should do for Lent.

I was still undecided until the last parade on Tuesday night had passed, and I saw all the trash on the ground. It looked like the aftermath of a hurricane!

After seeing downtown Mobile covered with ridiculous amounts of garbage, I decided to be more environmentally friendly this Lent season, and you can too with these eco-friendly tips.

If you commute to campus, see if you can car pool with someone who has a similar schedule to yours. For those of you who live on campus, you can carpool or take public transportation to take you to the grocery store instead of using your own vehicle.

Also, instead of using the JagTran, you can either walk or use a bike – free exercise!

Another tip toward saving the world is to re-sale your textbooks to the USA Bookstore or donate them to a charity, as opposed to throwing them away.

Remember all that used paper you threw away last term? Recycle it! Waste management has recycled tons of paper and has saved more than 41 million trees as a result.

Aluminum cans, cardboard, plastic bottles and jugs are all recyclable.

According to http://www.plugintorecycling.org, more than 2 million tons of used electronics are thrown out each year. For X

see RECYCLE, page 20

ON CAMPUS THIS WEEK

Tuesday “Soul Food Luncheon” at 12 p.m. in SC Ballroom. Hosted by the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs and the AfricanAmerican Student Association, admission is $8.

Wednesday USA Spirit Day! Wear red to support the Jags!; Homecoming Blood Drive from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. in SC Lobby.

Thursday Homecoming Dance “Cupid’s Shuffle” at 7 p.m. at the MC Globe, FREE. Friday Phi Alpha Theta History Club film showing of “Gone With the Wind” at 6:30 p.m. in HUMB room 150.

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Fine Arts

Ashley Gruner Fine Arts Editor amarie588@gmail.com

February 11, 2008

The Arts

MAC honors Black History Month Amanda B. Johnson

Ashley Gruner

STAFF WRITER

FINE ARTS EDITOR

The Mobile Arts Council offers four distinct exhibits throughout the month of February--one of which honors this month's tradition of black history awareness. An opening reception on Feb. 8 invites the public to experience a variety of mediums, styles and artistic messages throughout the remainder of the month.

The installation "Seats for Social Justice” welcomes artgoers at the entrance of the MAC. The project, begun by the Hands On Network in 2006, commemorates civil rights leaders such as Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr. The bus seats, decorated by Mobile artists, began their display on MLK Day. "The Messenger,” by Press-Register editorial cartoonist J. D. Crowe, depicts a pastel memorial to King and his message.

Azalea City Quilters Anne Godwin and Nancy Goodman depict their seat in memory of Rosa Parks; various quotes appearing like patchwork on the bus seat are attributed to a life-like Parks, who sits calmly with her booking number hung around her neck at the time of her arrest.

This work, titled "The Booking,” pays homage to a turning point in the history of civil rights. The final bus seat, created by June LaVernway and Krista Kearney of Volunteer Mobile, serves

amarie588@gmail.com

The Mobile Theatre Guild will soon be presenting their suspenseful production of “Veronica’s Room.” The play, directed by Michael McKee, will be showing on Feb. 15, 16, 22, 23 and 24.

“Veronica’s Room” was written by Ira Levin, the creator of “Rosemary’s Baby,” “The Stepford Wives” and “Deathtrap.”

In “Veronica’s Room,” an elderly couple meets a young woman, Susan, at a local restaurant. The couple insists that the young woman’s looks resemble that of a deceased girl named Veronica. The mystery continues to unfold when Susan agrees to visit and comfort Veronica’s sister, who is slowly dying of cancer. Once entering Veronica’s room, Susan realizes that there is no escape.

The gothic mystery encompasses a unique and suspenseful quality that is magnified even more by the play’s setting ... an antiquated Victorian home.

“Veronica’s Room” will continuously keep you on the edge of your seat. The Herndon Times calls the play “compelling,” while Stephen King claims it is “the Swiss watchmaker of suspense.”

The Mobile Theatre Guild is a nonprofit community theater and is a member of the Mobile Arts Council, the Alabama Conference of Theatre and Speech and the American Association of Community Theaters.

Cast for the production includes Angela Davis, Tracie Collier, Tony Lord and Jake Coleman.

The Mobile Theatre Guild has been serving the community since 1947. The theatre is located at 14 North Lafayette St. in midtown Mobile. For further information and to make reservations, call (251) 433-7513.

“Veronica’s Room” contains adult content and is not suitable for children.

UPCOMING EVENTS USA Chorale presents “Romance, again ... please” Feb. 12, 7:30 p.m.

Laidlaw Performing Arts Center Opening of “Misery” Feb. 15, 8 p.m.

Theatre 98 Fairhope, Ala. Literary Lecture: Author Tom Lakeman Feb. 28, 7 p.m.

Stewartfield Mansion Spring Hill College USA Symphony Band Concert Feb. 28, 7:30 p.m.

Laidlaw Performing Arts Center

amanda_b_johnson@yahoo.com

Photo courtesy of Charlie Smoke

The paintings of Frederick McDuffie focus on the hardships of migrant workers and their lives in the United States.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Smoke

Local artist J.D. Crowe created this bus seat, celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his work during the Civil Rights Movement.

as an assemblage of more than 285 images of civil rights pioneers throughout history.

Along the walls of the Skinny Gallery is the work of USA graduate Frederick E. McDuffie. McDuffie's social realist series, titled "The Fruit of Labor,” was first displayed at the Mobile Townhouse Gallery in a solo exhibit. Seeking inspiration from the laborers of Mobile, McDuffie portrays his version of the migrant worker in the United States.

"I wanted to concern these paintings less with people and more so with the labor or rather the product gained by their work," McDuffie said. The artist does so through his depiction of the act of labor and even more so through his depiction of hardship.

"I have manipulated the paintings in a way to draw the viewer’s attention to the product that is gained from the work of the migrant." McDuffie does so through his obscure portrayal of the figures faces … they are either hidden or unrecognizable. Above all, McDuffie longs for the viewer to gain his or her own conclusion of the images, keeping his personal thoughts "beneath the surface of the painting."

Taking a trip into the Blue Room gives an eye-opening experience into the work of young artists from Mary G. Montgomery X

see MAC, page 9

‘Buried Child’ depicts family of secrets Daniela Werner STAFF WRITER danigirl6013@gmail.com

The University of South Alabama’s Dramatic Arts Department will perform Sam Shepard’s Buried Child at the Laidlaw Performing Arts Center on Feb. 15, 16, 21, 22 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. and again on Feb. 17 at 2 p.m.

“Shepard is best known to movie fans for his acting work in “The Right Stuff,” “The Notebook” and “Black Hawk Down,” among many roles. He was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for our play “Buried Child,” which was most recently revived for Broadway in 1996,” said Dr. Leon Van Dyke, chair of the drama department.

Mixing intense symbolism with untamed life-likeness, Buried Child depicts the aftermath a family undergoes while hiding a dark secret … an act of incest between a mother and one of her three sons. The resulting baby boy was quickly put to death by the mother’s husband, the offending son’s father.

The audience gets to see how the scandal entirely warps the family over time.

Michael Waldron, an acting major who issues with his father and his family. There is playing the role of Vince, said “this is a are actual names of characters which very Greek-styled tragedy set in the heart- were names of his real family members,” land of America … Illinois. The ambigui- stated Smith. ty of the script leaves a lot of holes, which In his review of the production, is challenging but a lot of fun to work on.

Francisco Miguel Valada said “… Its roots The dialogue is rugged and from the in ritual and its approach to monumental, heart. Shepard’s speeches are amazing timeless themes of human suffering and so real,” he said. incest, murder, deceit and rebirth - resemNot only does Waldron possess a lead ble the destruction wreaked by the heroes role in the production, but he also helped of Greek tragedy.” the scenic designSmith said of er, Constance Shepard, “I love his Smith, build the work. We have been “This is a very Greek-styled set. waiting a while to do tragedy set in the heartland of this. Shepard leaves plenSmith is scene America ...” shop foreman of ty of room for the audithe department of - Michael Waldron ence to interpret differdramatic arts. ent things from this “My approach play.” for design was to General admission create a very disconnected look,” he said. tickets for this event are $12, and student “It looks like there are pieces of a set, but tickets are $8. Tickets for faculty, staff and not all the pieces are there. It represents senior citizens are $10. The box office, the quest for identity in the play.” located in the lobby of the Laidlaw “Through this production, Shepard Performing Arts Center, is open from 9 pays homage to his family. It’s the first a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays. For ticket play where he revisits his own demons and information, call (251) 460-6306.

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MSO: keeping the romance alive Amy McCoy STAFF WRITER amymccoy018@yahoo.com

Are you searching for something romantic and unique to do this Valentine’s Day weekend? Or perhaps you feel stuck in a cultural wasteland and need some classical refreshment? If you are tired of the trite candlelit dinner and the obligatory box of chocolates, then broaden your romantic horizons with the Mobile Symphony. Their "Legendary Love" concert will surely infuse new life into your romance.

This exciting concert features the romantic, lyrical pieces of Sergei Rachmaninoff ’s “Piano Concerto No.2” and Antonín Dvorák’s “Symphony No. 6.” Both musical pieces will be performed by world-famous Russian pianist Olga Kern. Her long and distinguished

http://www.mobilesymphony.org

The “Legendary Love” concert features selected works of Rachmaninoff and Dvorak.

list of accomplishments speaks for itself.

Kern has won both critical and popular acclaim for her extraordinary talent.

Her interpretation of the music is bound to be the highlight of the performance. Kern is the Gold Medal winner of the prestigious 2001 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. She is certainly familiar with Rachmaninoff; her performance of his “Piano Concerto No. 3” won her the honor of being the first woman in 30 years to win that particular award.

Kern is no stranger to the American stage, as she has averaged 60 performances per season. Her most recent 20062007 tour, with fellow Russian and world-renowned violinist Vladimir Spivakov and the National Philharmonic of Russia, was a great success.

The "Legendary Love" concert will feature several choice works.

Rachmaninoff's “Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 2” is characterized by lush and lyrical motifs. The piano concerto is filled with Russian-infused passion during its first part. Its recapitulation allows the pianist a place to shine with a serene piano solo.

The second piece of the concert will be Antonín Dvorák's “Symphony No. 6.” This symphony is imbued with a cheerful nature, compliments of its Czech folk music roots. Its second theme is defined by its grace and elegance. The piece ends with a triumphant, attentiongrabbing show.

As a future concert-attendee, one may

Kathryn Garikes STAFF WRITER daffodilkg2@aol.com

http://www.mobilesymphony.org

Russian pianist Olga Kern will be performing with the Mobile Symphony on Feb. 17.

blissfully celebrate singles-awareness day, or if a special someone is involved, Valentine’s Day. This masterful collaboration between a fantastically talented pianist and inherently beautiful music can be enjoyed no matter what one‘s romantic status may be. "Legendary Love" will have two performances, one on Feb. 16 at 8:00 p.m., and a matinee performance on Feb. 17 at 2:30 p.m.

The historic Mobile Saenger Theatre is the showcase for the sumptuous sounds of "Legendary Love." The Saenger Theatre is located at 6 Joachim St. in downtown Mobile. For additional information and ticket prices, visit http://www.mobilesymphony.org.

Mobile Opera to present ‘enchanted evening’ Susan Pruitt STAFF WRITER msp501@jaguar1.usouthal.edu

The Mobile Opera will be presenting “Some Enchanted Valentine: An Evening of Rodgers and Hammerstein Classics” on Feb. 14.

This evening will feature selections from the best works of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein. The program includes excerpts from “Carousel,” “Sound of Music,” “The King & I,” “Oklahoma!” “South Pacific” and “State Fair.”

Rodgers began his work by collaborating with lyricist Lorenz Hart on a series of musical comedies that were featured on Broadway, in London and in Hollywood, from the 1920s into the early 1940s. According to the Mobile Opera Web site, these shows set “new standards for wit, sophistication and innovation.”

Hammerstein began writing lyrics for the Columbia University Varsity, including several musical comedies. He then began to pursue a career in theatre by working as an assistant stage manager for his uncle. His first play, “The Light,” began in 1919 and led to his continuation in the writing of both lyrics and librettos. According to the Mobile Opera’s Web site, Hammerstein found his passion in “breathing new life into the moribund artform of operetta.”

The Rodgers and Hammerstein partnership began with “Oklahoma!” This musical blended comedy with operetta

to form a whole new genre - the musical play. Throughout their partnership, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical earned 34 Tony Awards, 15 Academy Awards, two Pulitzer Prizes and two Grammy Awards. Rodgers and Hammerstein also produced the motion picture version of “Oklahoma!” and founded a musical publishing firm, Williamson Music.

Hammerstein’s last musical was “The Sound of Music” written with Rodgers in 1959. Hammerstein died in August 1960. Rodgers continued to write for

http://www.mobileopera.org

The Mobile Opera’s upcoming performance will feature selections from several musicals.

Artists add to local festivities

the Broadway stage after Hammerstein’s death, until his own death in December 1979. The Mobile Opera’s Web site reminds us that even at the turn of the 21st century, the Rodgers and Hammerstein legacy still flourishes, marked by the enthusiasm that greeted their centennials in 1995 and 2002, respectively.

The Mobile Opera’s tribute to Rodgers and Hammerstein will feature Laura Choi Stuart, soprano; Kirsten Gunlogson, mezzo soprano; Erica van Hoven, tenor; Corey McKern, baritone; and Jerome Shannon, conductor. Stuart has been hailed by the Boston Globe as “a lyric soprano of ravishing quality,” while performing extensively in concert and chamber music settings. McKern has been praised by the Santa Fe New Mexican as a “resonant and virile baritone, confident bearing and musical astuteness.”

The evening will be filled with classics such as “Climb Every Mountain” from “The Sound of Music,” “I Whistle a Happy Tune” from “The King and I,” “You’ll Never Walk Alone” from “Carousel,” “People Will Say We’re in Love” from “Oklahoma!” and “Some Enchanted Evening” from “South Pacific.”

Be sure you don’t miss out on this enchanted evening. The Mobile Opera “guarantees you and your special someone the most romantic Valentine’s Day imaginable with a lavish concert of music for lovers.”

Throughout the month of February, Cathedral Square Gallery will be showing “Beads and Bangles,” a Mardi Gras inspired exhibition.

Cathedral Square Gallery is a co-op gallery with a wide range of artists and mediums constantly being represented.

Each month the gallery chooses a theme in which the gallery members have an option to participate. This month’s Mardi Gras theme inspired several artists to create bold, vivacious works of art.

Holly Carrigan created knit and woven scarves containing various decorative fabrics.

The colors spanned throughout the spectrum … from yellow to purple to green. This helped in capturing the spirit and the essence of the season. The materials appeared festive among beads and other bold colors.

Gordon House, a local artist, painted a bright image of a parade float with a masked thrower tossing beads. Flowers and bugs decorated the blurred, moving float while the bold colors popped out of the painting.

Suzanne Damrich, another local artist, painted Jazz Band and New Orleans Brass Band. In each of these pieces, there are fiery reds and vivid yellows surrounding the main subjects, which are the musicians. The performers appear somewhat skewed as if they were shown performing in real life. The musicians appear to be enjoying themselves, while the many colors dancing across the canvas adds an extra flair.

Other paintings found hanging in the gallery contain floats, beads, masks and bold, bright colors that seem to vibrate against one another.

The entire show is fun, energetic and really seems to portray the feelings and emotions evoked during the Mardi Gras season.

Cathedral Square Gallery is open Tuesday Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The gallery is located on 260 Dauphin St.

MAC X

from page 8

High School. Students at the high school created Japanese-inspired images and sculptures.

The student series, titled "Spirit of Japan," gave the emerging artists a chance to express their interpretation of a Japanese heroine.

Sadako was a victim of the atomic bomb in Hiroshima. Sadako was later diagnosed with leukemia. Sadako sought the help of an old Japanese legend – that one wish would be granted to anyone who could fold 1,000 paper cranes.

Sadako folded over 1,000 cranes before dying in 1955 at the age of 12.

The last of the four exhibitions is that of Alabama artist Ainsley McNeely. She offers oil paintings of various wildlife, as well as pastel drawings of life on the frontier. McNeely foremost "enjoys the challenge of capturing the beauty, energy and emotion of the natural world, as well as the people and animals who inhabit it."

The work present at MAC is quite evident of McNeely's love of the world that surrounds us.

Stepping into the room of her work is like stepping into an undiscovered part of the great land.

These remarkably different yet equally intriguing works are on display at the Mobile Arts Council until Feb. 28. Visit http://www.mobilearts.org for further information.

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Entertainment

Stephanie A. Hudson Entertainment Editor stephanieahudson@gmail.com

February 11, 2008

Winter Jam 2008 triumphs with sold-out show Amy McCoy STAFF WRITER amymccoy018@yahoo.com

Nationwide, 120,997 people have attended The Winter Jam 2008 tour this year, and that success spilled over Saturday night to the University of South Alabama‘s Mitchell Center. With the USA Mitchell Center packed to capacity and many fans turned away at the door, the 13th annual Winter Jam 2008 Tour Spectacular could only be considered a triumph. The doors were open at 5:00 p.m. for the pre-show, and the main show started at 6:00, but it lasted well past 9:30 p.m. Tickets were only $10 at the door, and the audience received their money’s worth. There were 10 acts, including major stars in the contemporary Christian music circuit. The big draws to Winter Jam 2008 were mellow MercyMe, rockers Skillet, girl band BarlowGirl, and veterans NewSong. Throw in some up-and-coming bands such as Echoing Angels, Group 1 Crew, and Connorsvine, along with entertaining pre-show acts like pureNRG and Real Encounter’s BMX Xtreme Skate Team, and there truly was something for everyone.

The pre-show at 5:00 p.m. featured “tween” entertainers pureNRG and Real Encounter’s BMX Xtreme Skate Team. It also included the funky sounds of Group 1 Crew. The massive audience in attendance seemed to be having a good time before the show started and were especially appreciative of Real Encounter’s BMX Xtreme Skate Team. The mood was positive when NewSong took the stage for the 6:00 show. NewSong played five songs, mixing worship, their hits and for a fun flavor, along with a few verses of “Shout” and “Sweet Home Alabama.” With 18 albums under their belt, NewSong has been around a while and earned the respect only longevity can provide.

The audience, now warmed up, welcomed Contemporary Christian’s resident rockers Skillet. Skillet played four songs, mostly from their newest album, “Comatose,” but with a couple of old favorites thrown in as well. Lead singer John Cooper and the other members of Skillet rocked the house with their exhilarating showmanship, complete with fire on stage.

Skillet has been on tour with Flyleaf and opened for Three Days Grace and Breaking Benjamin, so they know how to rock.

There was a short break between bands where guest speaker Tony Nolan spoke. He wittily and compellingly spoke to the audience about salvation through Jesus Christ and afterwards took up an offering to support the Winter Jam ministry. After Tony Nolan left the stage, NewSong came out and spoke to the audience about a very worthwhile project, Holt Children’s Services. Holt International is a philanthropic organization that provides care to homeless children around the world. So far, 1310 children have been sponsored by attendees of Winter Jam 2008 until they can be adopted.

After a 15-minute break, the Midwestern band Connorsvine took the stage for two songs of the calming coffee house variety. Next on stage was the all-girl band BarlowGirl. The audience was receptive to BarlowGirl’s brand of punk-rock. Their latest album, "How Can We Be Silent," debuted at number one on all charts in 2007--not too shabby for a bunch of girls. After playing four of their hits, they cleared the stage for the main attraction,

Local

Event

Megan J. Reed / Staff Writer

MercyMe’s guitarist Mike Scheuchzer plays to a sold-out show last Saturday night at the USA Mitchell Center. MercyMe was the headlining act of the Winter Jam 2008 music tour.

MercyMe. MercyMe put on a great show, playing at least six or seven of their numerous hits.

As one of a select few Christian bands to have all of their albums certified gold or platinum, nothing less could be expected. MercyMe ended Winter Jam 2008 in a fitting way. Their mix of powerful and catchy songs were positive and uplifting, like the whole Winter Jam 2008 experience. Mobile was fortunate to have enjoyed such a talented group of artists. But according to Group 1 Crew, the artists were happy to be in Mobile. The band stated, “Mobile was the loudest, most hyped crowd so far, and we’re not just saying that. Mobile has been the best crowd.”

Winter Jam 2008’s variety was appreciated. There were varying levels of talent, but for the most part every performer put on a really great show. Skillet was the cool kid, BarlowGirl the angst filled teen, MercyMe the good child, and NewSong the father in Winter Jam 2008’s happy little family. Frankly, that chemistry worked.

Cabot caters to chick lit’ crowd with ‘Big Boned’ Amy McCoy STAFF WRITER amymccoy018@yahoo.com

Want something profound to read? A novel that will inspire you to become a better person? Well, “Big Boned” is not that novel. Instead it is an unpretentious, entertaining, and well-written story of the chick lit’ variety. While chick lit’ may not be considered high literature, it is a viable and popular market. When searching through the myriad of chick lit’ writers, who better to spend a rainy Saturday afternoon with than the queen herself, Meg Cabot?

Meg Cabot has made a name for herself in this genre, and her stories are looked upon as the model for chick lit’ books. Her third novel in the Heather Wells mystery series, “Big Boned,” does not disappoint. It is frothy, fun frivolity. It, thankfully, is not one of those books that takes itself too seriously.

However, at times it seems that Cabot is trying too hard to be humorous. Some of the unfunny, running jokes she employs throughout the novel are spread thin. “Big Boned” starts off as a little too forced, but it picks up pace as it progresses and finishes as an enjoyable read.

There is nothing groundbreaking in “Big Boned.” The main character in the mystery series, twenty-something Heather Wells, is a likable and relatable heroine. Heather, who has never said no to a Dove Bar in her life, has a talent for solving murder mysteries in New York City.

This novel picks up where the two previous books left off. Heather Wells, a former teen pop star, is now a college student at New York College. She also works in a residence hall that happens to be famous for its murders. Heather has an undeniably bad habit of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Case in point, she discovers the body of her residence hall director with a bullet through his head. It does not help the situation this is Heather’s third murdered boss in one year.

Her penchant for getting involved in the lives of the students in the dorm that she works in gets her into trouble as well.

Heather’s life becomes even more chaotic when the students of New York College decide to riot. Throw in a secret relationship with her vegan math professor, mix it with the fact that she is still in love with her landlord Cooper, and it might be said that Heather is in over her head.

It is pretty obvious to the reader that Heather is intelligent and spunky enough to not only take care of herself, but of the messy situation she finds herself in.

Even though “Big Boned” is the third novel in a series, it is not necessary to have read the first two Heather Wells books. At only 280 pages, and with user-friendly large print, it is a quick read. For those people who do not have the time to invest in a lengthy book “Big Boned” fills that “Iwant-to-relax-and-have-fun” niche.

Heather gives hope to all the women out there who are not perfect size twos and fours. They too can capture the heart of their hunky neighbor while dodging danger and still be appreciated for the way they are. “Big Boned” reads like a mug of hot chocolate that Heather Wells would definitely drink with whole milk. It is an indulgence that may not be the best for you, but it is tasty nevertheless.

Meg Cabot was born in Bloomington, Ind. In addition to her adult contemporary fiction, she is the author of the bestselling young adult fiction series “The Princess http://www.barnesandnoble.com Diaries.” She lives in Key West, Fla., with “Big Boned” is the third novel in Meg Cabot’s series her husband. Visit her at http://www.megcabot.com. about Heather Wells’ adventures and love life.

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February 11, 2008

‘Burnout’ boasts new features, fast graphics Jonathan Cashon STAFF WRITER jcashon@yahoo.com

During the 2004 Electronic Entertainment Expo, Criterion Games showed some videos of their latest racing game, “Burnout 3: Takedown.” Prior to seeing these videos, I had never even heard of the “Burnout” series, but once I saw them, I knew that Criterion was onto something.

The release of “Burnout 3: Takedown” has come and gone. So has its sequel, “Burnout Revenge.” Both were well-received games and sold very well. In spite of the success of these two games, Criterion has decided to change things up a bit for the latest in the series, “Burnout Paradise.”

CONCEPT - The selling point of “Burnout 3” was the takedown, smashing your rivals into anything to make them crash or having your rivals take you down. The takedowns were accompanied by gorgeous slow-motion shots of the crashes. “Burnout Revenge” took the same basic concept and added new features such as traffic checking, a method of rear-ending same-way traffic, along with a few other features. “Burnout Paradise,” however, has changed almost everything by throwing out the mostly linear “stages” of the previous games and imple-

menting a completely open city for players to cruise at their leisure.

Events, such as Race, Road Rage and Burning Route, are all triggered by stopping at any given intersection and peeling out.

Unfortunately, the old “Crash Mode” has been replaced by the “Showtime Mode,” in which players hit the left and right bumper buttons to cause their vehicle to crash and bounce along the street. As in “Crash Mode,” points are accumulated based on damage caused to other vehicles.

GRAPHICS - Paradise City is amazingly detailed for such a huge city that needs no in-game loading. There is rarely any pop-up (when objects or buildings are rendered suddenly due to slow loading), and the sense of speed is face-melting. All of the cars feature very realistic crash modeling, which actually makes you want to crash more often.

AUDIO - “Burnout Paradise” features a bevy of typical Electronic Arts game sound effects. Most of them are pretty decent, while others will make you mute your television set. Naturally, “Paradise City” by Guns ‘N’ Roses makes a cameo. As far as the vehicle sound effects, well, they sound like cars, so there certainly is nothing wrong with the audio in this game. The surround sound available on every console these days does

http://www.ea.com

“Burnout 3” now allows players to interact with the game without the need for linear gameplay.

keep the sound entertaining.

PLAYABILITY - This is where things take a turn for the worse. Since Paradise City is one huge, open map, players can race down any streets that appeal to them in order to get to the finish line. The problem is that the only indication of where the fin-

TV’s ‘Unhitched’ lacks Farrelly brothers’ big screen appeal Angela Langster STAFF WRITER asl662002@yahoo.com

The comedy genius that made the Farrelly brothers’ movies such as “Dumb and Dumber,” “There’s Something About Mary,” and “Shallow Hal” such huge successes is not evident in the first two episodes of their new television comedy series, “Unhitched.”

On March 2, FOX will premiere the new mid- season scripted comedy starring Craig Bierko, Rashida Jones, Shaun Majunder and Johnny Sneed as four friends who are back on the dating scene after coming out of serious marriages and relationships. The show is roduced by Bobby and Peter Farrelly. “Unhitched” is their first attempt at television. The first two episodes fall far short of the standard of comedy fans have

http://www.tvguide.com

The cast of “Unhitched” includes Craig Bierko, Rashida Jones, Shaun Majunder and Johnny Sneed. The show will premier March 2 on the FOX network.

come to expect from them.

Set in Boston, the pilot episode does showcase the slapstick comedy that they are known for with the opening scene. In the scene, Jack Gately, Bierko, walks his date to her apartment. What occurs next involves a primate and can be only be described as wacky and grotesque.

The pilot and second episode attempt to use the idea of incorrect first impressions as a basis for laughter. Kate, Jones, goes on a date with a guy she thinks works in the business division of the Boston Celtics.

Meanwhile, Dr. Freddy, Majunder, thinks he has finally found the one with his date. However, both find out that their dates are not what they appeared to be.

The pilot episode falls flat after the opening scene because the background information of the characters is rushed and not enough time is spent getting to know them.

The second episode titled “ Women Marries Horse” continues the previous theme of the pilot episode as the characters head out to an exclusive club to once again join the dating world. While there, Jack and Kate land dates - Jack with a seemly attractive blonde and Kate with a free-spirited rocker. Again, they find out the actual truth that lurks behind their dates’ real personalities. As a sideline to the plot , Dr. Freddy strikes up a friendship with the club bouncer.

Another problem with just the first episodes of “Unhitched,” besides the lack of hysterical comedy that made the Farrelly brothers’ movies popular, is character Tommy, played by Johnny Sneed.

In both episodes Tommy seems more of a secondary character than one of the main ensemble, since there is not much focus on his venture into the dating world.

Viewers may wonder why he exists at all.

There is one positive aspect of “Unhitched.” There is a sense of vulnerability and friendship between the characters and what they are dealing with at this hard time in their lives. Hopefully, future episodes of this show will showcase more of the hysterical cartoonish comedy that made “Dumb and Dumber,” and “There’s Something Like Mary” hits in theaters, only now available on the small screen.

ish line is happens to be on a small map in the lower right-hand part of the screen.

More often than not, I found myself checking my position on the map, only to look up and suddenly crash into something. There is also the option of pressing the “Back” button to pause the game and simultaneously view a larger map of the city, but that can get tedious after a while.

Another thing that keeps inline with the open-world theme is the online portion. At any moment, all players have to do to play online is press right on the d-pad and select the appropriate option. Almost instantly, players will be driving throughout Paradise City with either friends or strangers from all over the world.

ACHIEVEMENTS - The Achievements in “Burnout Paradise” are not really significant in any way. There are a lot of online “Achievements” for taking other players down, but you would most likely do this anyway, so it does not feel like anything special.

There is even an “Achievement” that I unlocked, but still have no idea how. The description of the “Achievement” is to “Catch Criterion Fever.” There really is nothing here that gives the Xbox 360 version an advantage over the PlayStation 3 version.

Upcoming Shows in Mobile Wednesday, Feb. 13 Callaghan’s - Bobby and Isaac All Sports Bar & Grill - Josh Ewing Bubble Lounge Justin Simmons Thursday, Feb. 14 Monsoon’s - Acoustic music The Club (Eastern Shore) - Bust trio Friday, Feb. 15 Grand Central - Full Service T.P. Crockmeir’s Small Zoo Hurricane Brewing Co. - Lowdown Throwdown Soul Kitchen Higher Ground Ravenite (Eastern Shore) - John Lisi & the Delta Funk The Pub (Eastern Shore) - Smokin’ Toasters

Saturday, Feb. 16 Knights of Columbus - Mobile Rock Summit featuring Son of a Gun, Make Ends Meets, The Tiles, Roma, The Intrusive, etc.

Callaghan’s - Glass Joe Grand Central - Full Service T.P. Crockmeir’s Small Zoo Soul Kitchen - Wrong Way Bilotti’s - Jim Armstrong The Pub (Eastern Shore) - Daddy Long Legs Sunday, Feb. 17 Callaghan’s Lowdown Throwdown

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VANGUARD STAFF vanguard@jaguar1.usouthal.edu

USA 69, Troy 66 TROY - The South Alabama women’s basketball team earned a thrilling road victory over Troy Sunday afternoon at the Trojan Arena in Troy, Ala. A jumper from Shakira Nettles with under a minute remaining and a pair of free throws with only seconds remaining from Amanda Lenoard were the difference in the 69-66 win over the Lady Trojans. With the win the Lady Jaguars improved to 16-8 overall and 7-6 in the Sun Belt. The Lady Trojans fell to 10-14 and 3-10 in conference play. The Lady Jaguars were paced offensively by Nettles who finished with a career-high 20 points. Leonard was the other Lady Jaguar in double figures with 10 points.

“Tonight was a great finish for us,” USA head coach Rick Pietri said. “We knew that Troy had a lot of fight in them. The thing that I liked about our effort was that although they cut into the lead a couple of times, our team never shattered and was able to hold it together. We were able to make the plays at the end to win it.”

The Lady Jaguars had a 35-24 lead with 2:21 left before the Lady Trojans reeled off nine unanswered points to end the half.

Amy Lewis of Troy hit two free throws with less than a second remaining in the first half, cutting the deficit to 35-33.

The Lady Jaguars took their first lead of the game at 41-40 three minutes into the

Sports Editors vanguard@jaguar1.usouthal.edu

February 11, 2008

Late game rally propels Lady Jags to victory David Hopper, Matt Weaver

John Kenny & David Hopper

second half. On the next possession, Nettles then drained a trey to give the Lady Jags the lead right back.

The Lady Jaguars pushed the lead to 5549 on a couple of foul shots from Siedah Banks with 10 minutes left. The Lady Trojans battled back though. Kylie Morissy of Troy hit two free throws with a minute and a half remaining to cut the Jaguars lead down to one at 65-64, but Nettles and Leonard stepped up in the clutch to lead the Lady Jaguars to victory.

The Lady Jaguars will travel to Middle Tennessee to take on the Lady Blue Raiders Thursday Night, and they will host Florida Atlantic on Saturday at the Mitchell Center.

ASU 70, USA 58 The South Alabama women’s basketball team’s inability to protect the glass against Arkansas State cost them another valuable conference game on Wednesday night, Feb. 6, at the Mitchell Center. The Jaguars lost to the Indians 70-58 in front of a home crowd of 1,304 spectators.

Arkansas State dominated the rebounding game, winning the battle off the glass, 52-36, including 21 offensive rebounds.

South Alabama also gave the Indians too many extra opportunities, allowing Arkansas State to score 23 second chance points, including 16 in the second half.

"The offensive rebounding category was the complete story of the game tonight,” South Alabama head coach Rick Pietri said. “We put ourselves in position to fight and win the X

Jags continue to sweep the court

see WOMEN’S page 19 Ashley Salley / Sports Photographer

USA center Ronald Douglass puts up a dunk in USA’s commanding win over Troy on Sunday after-

David Hopper, Matt Weaver VANGUARD STAFF vanguard@jaguar1.usouthal.edu

Ashley Salley / Sports Photographer

USA guard Shakira Nettles puts up one of her many baskets in the Lady Jag’s thrilling win over Troy.

USA 90, Troy 74 TROY- The South Alabama men’s basketball team won their 20th game of the season Sunday afternoon at the Trojan Arena in Troy, Ala. Led by 26 points from Domonic Tilford and 22 from Demetric Bennett, the Jaguars (204, 12-1 SBC) handily defeated the Trojans (10-14, 3-10 SBC) 90-74. The Trojans were led in scoring by Justin Jonus, who drilled 10-of-16 3-pointers and finished with 32 points.

“Tonight, you saw why South Alabama is in first place,” said Troy head coach Don Maestri. “They played good basketball. They were on top of their game and did a good job of spreading the ball around.” Maestri said of Tilford’s stellar performance, “He looked like he could have been in the NBA tonight.” Tilford made 8-of-12 shots from behind the arc.

The guards were not the only ones that contributed offensively for the Jaguars. The other two that scored in double figures were big men DeAndre Coleman and Brandon Davis, adding 13 and 10 points respectively.

The first half was close with nine lead changes and two ties. With the score 1414 five minutes in, Bennett drained a trey from the corner, and Tilford followed it up with another trey to give the Jaguars a

20-14 advantage with 13:14 to go in the half. The Jaguars led until Jonus hit a 3pointer at the 7:03 mark to put the Trojans up 37-35.

Daon Merritt, who had a career high 13 assists, drove the lane and flipped a pass to Douglas who threw down a thunderous two-handed dunk, giving the Jaguars a 39-37 lead with 2:20 left in the half. The Jaguars would never relinquish the lead. South Alabama took a 44-37 advantage into the locker room.

Early in the second half, Douglas had to leave the game after hurting his ankle.

USA head coach Ronnie Arrow said after the game that it was not serious.

The Jaguars pushed the lead to 61-50 six minutes into the second half on a trey from Bennett. After that the Trojans never got within five points. The Jaguars finished strong, outscoring the Trojans 16-7 over the final five minutes.

The Jaguars made 18-of-21 free throws while the Trojans never went to the line. USA out-rebounded Troy 36 to 26. Bennett pulled down a game-high 11 boards, giving him his fifth career double-double. The Jaguars will travel to Middle Tennessee Thursday night and Saturday night will host Florida Atlantic in the homecoming bout.

USA 81, ASU 58 The University of South Alabama men’s basketball squad ran away from a X

see BASKETBALL, page 20

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February 11, 2008

Softball Preview John Kenny SPORTS EDITOR chevyracin382931@aol.com

After a very impressive first season of Sun Belt Conference competition, the University of South Alabama softball team looks to continue to move the program in the right direction. The Lady Jags ended their 2007 campaign by losing to eventual conference champion Florida Atlantic in the second round of the Sun Belt Conference tournament. The loss gave the Lady Jags a final record of 36-23 (12-11 SBC) and something to improve on for this upcoming season.

“I was definitely proud of the way we started last year, commented Lady Jag head coach Becky Clark on how well the team performed for its’ first year. “I think the kids did a tremendous job getting our program off to a great start.” Getting off to a great start is exactly what the team did as the Lady Jags had a 13-9 record going into conference play.

Coach Clark also commented on realistic goals for the team this season. “Our goal this year is to just to build off of that (last season). We finished fifth last year, made the conference tournament, a huge accomplishment for us considering we were just getting started. This year, we are just trying to build on that, we want to compete in the conference like we did last year, hopefully finish in the top three, we would love to win it.” A relatively new team winning the Sun Belt title is nothing new as FAU was a newcomer to the SBC as South Alabama was a year ago.

With the team still being new, coach Clark feels that the team has depth in more ways than one. “We are the kind of group that different people contribute on different days and I would say that we are very team oriented, that is the great thing about our team is that it can be anybody on any given day, and that is actually one of our strengths.”

With the strong showing that the team put on the field their inaugural year, the Lady Jaguars are picked to repeat their performance as they start fifth in the preseason SBC poll.

Coach Clark feels the ranking is justifiable, “I think you should start where you finish, and it is your job to go on the field and prove otherwise, so it is fair to start us out where we finished last year.

Last year, we were picked to finish ninth, and we finished fifth; this year ,we are picked to finish fifth, so hopefully we can improve on that at the end o f

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Senior infielder Taylor Rich at bat in a game last season at Jaguar Field. Last season was USA’s first season with a softball team.

the year.”

For the Lady Jags to improve their position from last season, they have a tough road to haul with the level of competition that the Sun Belt Conference offers. “ULL is always one the strongest teams in the conference, proclaimed coach Clark, “they have some real

strong pitching and I know they will be good this year. Florida Atlantic is always good, they won it last year, they may be down a little this year because they graduated a lot of seniors, but they have great coaching and a strong program, so they will be fine.”

Outside of the defending champions, other teams present a challenge, “Troy is always very strong, and I k n o w Wester n

Kentucky will also be very strong,” Clark added.

The 2008 team may still be young in relation to the SBC, but the team returns eight of its starters from last season, as well as 13 letter winners.

Getting off to a solid start may be tough as the opening stent of the Lady Jags’ schedule includes 14 games, with only one home game against Auburn

on Feb. 20. The beginning of conference play on March 21 may be a welcomed sight for the road weary Jags. I trip to Troy for the SBC tournament is under three months away and a mere three hour trip up the road, but the journey begins now with a long road to haul for the second season of Jaguar softball.

Players to Watch Amanda Leggett Pitcher/Outfielder Senior ERA 3.48 Games Played: 15 Games Started: 9

Evelyne Pare Outfielder Senior Batting Average: .344 Hits: 63 Games Played: 59

Corey Race Infielder Junior Batting Average: .290 Hits: 54 Games Played: 59

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February 11, 2008

Men’s Tennis falls short, women’s prevails Tiffany Griffin SPORTS REPORTER tlg501@jaguar1.usouthal.edu

The University of South Alabama men's tennis team dropped the match 4-3 to North Florida at the Bruce David Lubel Memorial Courts on Friday. The Jags fall to 1-2, and the Ospreys moves to 2-1.

On the doubles side, the eighth ranked duo of Marek Sramek and Jack Baker defeated Argumendo Alejandro and Yuiti Lopes, 8-4. North Florida's Kurt Gattiker and Eduardo Pereira outscored Jaguars Aaron Krisan and R.J. Nagel, 8-4. The Jags had to forfeited the number three spot. In singles, Jack Baker demolished Javier Ferrin (6-2, 6-2), Robert Hodel defeated Adrian Escarate (6-3, 6-2), and R. J. Nagel took the match point in his victory over Kurt Gattiker (6-1, 6-0). Marek Sramek dropped the ball on the pole position to Alejandro Argumedo (6-1, 6-0). Aaron Krisan and UNF netter Graham Edgar played the deciding match and Edgar won in the third set following Krisan's injury which forced him to end the match (6-4, 7-6 (10-8), 6-5).

South Alabama returns to the courts to face Mississippi State at 1 p.m. in Starkville, Miss., Feb. 17.

The South Alabama women’s tennis team continued their winning streak as they won both of their matches played this week.

The Lady Jags outscored North Florida, 52, Friday afternoon at the Bruce David Lubel Memorial Tennis Courts and Georgia State 4-3 on Sunday.

The Lady Jag pair of Michaela Babicova and Erica Krisan swept North Florida’s Maria Melihova and Vanessa Sanchez, posting a blistering 8-0 win.

South Alabama’s Sylvanie Spangenberg and Adrianna Solarova also downed UNF’s Carolina Melo and Natalia Sanchez duo with an 8-1 victory which gave the Lady Jag’s an early advantage for the day.

The singles play saw South Alabama’s Babicova take control of the game as she posted a (6-1, 6-2) over Durcakova of North Florida. North Florida’s Vanessa Sanchez defeated Krisan in two sets. Katie Welch gave the Jags the match point after she dropped the first set 7-5, but rallied back 63 and 6-0. Solarova also took down UNF’s Natalia Sanchez 6-1, 6-3 while fellow Lady Jag Spangenberg also defeated Carolina Melo, 6-1, 6-1. South Alabama had to forfeit a point due to an injury.

The Lady Jags stayed on track and heated up the courts to take the win over Georgia State, 4-3, Sunday afternoon. The Lady Jags advance to 3-0 while Georgia State falls to 3-4 overall for the season. USA played the match without Jalena Krivacevic and Katie Welch in singles and doubles due to injures, but managed to stay on top of their game and take the win.

On the doubles end, the Lady Jag pair of Babicova and Krisan defeated their opponents, Rachel Malina and Darvana Kozmina, 8-2. Lady Jag’s Spangenberg and Solarova took the doubles point after posting an 8-6 win over Lady Panthers Martina

STAFF REPORTS Staff Reports vanguard@jaguar1.usouthal.edu

Men’s Golf prevails

USA finished fifth in the Gator Invitational held in Gainsville, Fla. on Sunday. The team shot an 851 and finished in front of five of the top fifty teams including ninth rated Duke University. Mark Ettiene Bussieres led the Jags with a 67, three under par. Freshman Jack Hiluta shot par and finished with an overall score of 209, one under par. Bussieres ended the day tied for sixth overall while Hiluta finished tied for twelfth.

Women’s Golf win Cowgirl Invitational

South Alabama shot a 921 and won the Cowgirl Invitational at Koasiti Pines on Sunday. The Jags were tied with Florida International at the end of the tournament but FIU could not play the playoff because of flight arrangements, which gave USA the win. Seniors Elin Andersson and Sara Marti both shot a 77 while Junior Shriley Harvey shot a 78 to help with the win. Andersson finished second in the tournament while Harvey finished in ninth.

USA wins Hall of Fame game

USA defeated former South Alabama players now in the Minor Leagues in the Hall of Fame game on Saturday. The Jags won 9-5 after scoring a run in the sixth and four runs in the seventh. The alumni team scored first but the Jags answered right back

after back-to-back singles from Chris Davis and Clint Toomey scored Ramond Kruml.

USA trailed 5-4 before scoring scoring their runs in the sixth and seventh innings. South Alabama will open their season in two weeks when Kentucky, Xavier, and Fairfield come to Mobile to play in the 23rd annual CocaCola Classic.

Softball gets off to rocky start in Bama Bash

South Alabama finished the Hampton Inn Bama Bash at the Alabama Softball Complex 0-4 after falling to Purdue, Alabama, and Jacksonville State on Feb. 8 and Feb. 9.

Purdue 8, USA 7 On Saturday, the Jags fell to Purdue and Jacksonville State. In their final game of the tournament, USA took Purdue to extra innings, but in the eighth inning the defense gave up a run after a bobbled ground ball and Purdue won 8-7. In the bottom of the fourth the Jaguars had a 5-1 lead, but Courtney Chigaros dropped a fly ball to allow a run to score. The Boilermakers added an RBI single to cut the Jag lead to two. Purdue later tied the game but ended regulation with the bases loaded due to South’s freshman pitcher Shannon Smith striking out a Purdue batter.

JSU 7, USA 1 Earlier that same day, USA was defeated

by Jacksonville State 7-1. With the game scoreless, Jacksonville State’s Chrissy O’Neal hit a three-run homer to give the Gamecocks their first runs of the night. JSU stretched its lead out to 7-0 before Krista Rodden drove in USA’s only run of the

Ashley Salley / Sports Photographer

Marek Sramek returns a serve in his match on Friday afternoon versus North Florida.

Nitkova and Katerina Gresova.

Singles saw the Lady Jags continuing their pace as they took home three of four matches. Solarova downed Darvana Kozmina (6-2, 6-2) and Krisan beat Rachel Malina (6-1, 6-4). Spangenberg took the advantage over Katerina Gresova (6-2, 7-6, 6-3). Babicova dropped her game point to

Martina Nitkova (1-6, 6-1, 3-6).

South Alabama will be back in action as they host Sun Belt Conference’s University of Louisiana-Monroe at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 15.

Men’s SBC Standings

Women’s SBC Standings

East Division

East Division

South Alabama

20-4

(12-1)

Western Kentucky

18-6

(11-1)

Western Kentucky

19-5

(11-1)

Middle Tennessee

14-10

(9-4)

Middle Tennessee

11-12

(8-5)

South Alabama

16-8

(7-6)

Florida Atlantic

11-14

(6-7)

Florida Int’l

11-13

(7-6)

7-16

(4-9)

Troy

10-14 (3-10)

Florida Atlantic

5-17

(1-12)

Florida Int’l Troy

10-14 (3-10)

West Division

West Division

Denver

11-12

(7-5)

UALR

17-6

(9-3)

UALR

15-8

(7-5)

Arkansas State

14-10

(9-4)

Louisiana-Lafayette

10-13

(6-6)

Louisiana-Monroe

15-8

(8-4)

New Orleans

15-9

(5-7)

New Orleans

12-11

(6-6)

North Texas

14-9

(5-7)

North Texas

11-13

(6-6)

Arkansas State

9-15

(4-9)

Denver

9-14

(4-8)

Louisiana-Monroe

9-15

(3-9)

Louisiana-Lafayette

5-18

(1-11)

night with a single to center field, which was the true freshman’s first collegiate hit.

JSU 7, USA 5 In the first contest between Jacksonville State and USA on Saturday, The Jags were beaten 7-5 in eight innings. The Jags stuck with JSU throughout the game, but in the eighth inning, while the jags had a 5-4, JSU catcher, Allie Barker, hit her second home run of the game to tie the score. A few batters later, Mary Beth Ledbetter hit a two run, walk-off home run to end the game 75.

UA 8, USA 1

On Saturday night fourth ranked Alabama defeated USA 8-1. The Crimson Tide scored six runs in the first three innings off of starting pitcher Amanda Leggett. In the fourth inning, Autumn Hudson hit an RBI single to score the first and only run of the night for the Jags.

The Jags will travel to Hammond, La to face Southeastern Louisiana on Feb. 13 at 6pm before traveling to Birmingham to participate in the Panther Spring Classic hosted

by Birmingham Southern on Feb. 16 and 17.

Compiled by Staff Reporter T.R. Risner

Opinion

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Matt Flanagan Opinion Editor pufferfishx@gmail.com

February 11, 2008

OUR VIEW

Hamas stands in way of peace

There is no place for harrasing military recruitment tactics

A year after the last suicide bombing which left biggest and deadliest terror organizations in the three Israelis dead, the Palestinian terror organiza- Middle East, Hamas. Hamas calls for the destructions struck again. tion of the state of Israel and its replacement with This time, it was in the quiet city of Dimona, a Palestinian Islamic state in the area that is now which is located in the Negev, the southern Israeli comprised of Israel, the Gaza strip and the West desert. It was the first terror attack ever to take Bank. Hamas has spent the better part of the past place in Dimona, leaving its citizens terrified. year continuing their campaign against Israel by While several organizations claimed responsibility shooting rockets daily towards the small town of at first - including, the Fatah movement, which is Sderot in southern Israel. Again, does this sound led by the Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas - like partners for peace? it was the Hamas that is Israel will proudly celebrate 60 believed to have carried it years of existence this year. After out. five major wars, thousands of Ellie Marks Next, the two terrorists attacks and thousands dead, Israel entered to the Palestinian Contributing Writer is still standing strong. The town of Hebron where, sadly, Palestinian people need to finally the border wall has not been accept that the two-state solution built yet, enabling such termust take place, and this must rorists to enter Israel and detoccur in the territory they now onate themselves. The first terrorist managed to hold. They should work towards improving their detonate his explosive belt. By the time the second quality of life--if not for themselves, then for their terrorist attempted to detonate his, a local police children. They should fight for education and not officer shot and killed him. suicide bombers, fight for the ending of corruption In the meantime, in the Gaza strip, Palestinians and not the burning of the Israeli and American chanted in the street, giving out candy and prais- flags. ing the terrorists. Does that sound like partners for Lastly, they should vote for leaders that want peace? peace and can achieve it. Sadly, voting for Hamas If the United States has a policy to never nego- is voting for a future with no hope, only more tiate with terrorists, why should Israel? destruction and death. The prospect of peace is The Palestinian government is led by one of the not dead but in dire need of resuscitation.

A

GGRESSIVE, DISHONEST RECRUITMENT tactics used by U.S. military recruiters have no place in our communities or on college campuses.

At one time or another, the majority of young people have been hunted down and harassed by recruiters. We have seen it happen in parking lots, where recruiters have aggressively pulled up behind a potential recruit and blocked him or her in as he or she pulled into a parking space.

We have even seen it happen as young people browse the stores of their local shopping mall. Just as some well-tailored window display catches the young shopper’s eye, here comes a pair of recruiters dressed in full fatigues.

Once the recruiters have forced their attention upon some unsuspecting person – whether by way of blocking a person into a parking spot or effectively cornering a person as he or she looks though the glass front of a favorite store – the harassment and high-pressure sales techniques begin.

They won’t take “no” for an answer.

At least, the recruiters will never take the first “no” for an answer. It usually takes three “no’s” before they will even begin to back off.

Even the most nonchalant encounter with a military recruiter can feel worse than an encounter with the most aggressive telemarketers known to mankind. At least with the telemarketers, the person can hang up. But with military recruiters, they come in person, they come in pairs, and they are trained to try to “trap” a person in order to guarantee a commitment of that person’s attention. In other words, the recruiters are trained to control and command the engagement.

More and more often, we are seeing recruiters aggressively recruit on college campuses, too. A simple stroll to the Student Center turns into an unwelcoming encounter, where some recruiter tries to force himself upon the student and aggressively seeks the commitment of the student.

Having an on-campus office is perfectly acceptable. Setting up booths at job fairs and orientation and other such events is perfectly acceptable.

Having a display table in the Student

Center Breezeway is also perfectly acceptable. Recruiters have just as much of a right to sell their product to the college kids as any other vendor may, but the rules that apply to other vendors should also apply to military recruiters. Simply put, this means military recruiters are welcome on campus. However, their aggressive, harassing tactics are not.

Aside from the aggressive, harrasing tactics used by some military recruiters, we have also witnessed a second disturbing trend in recruiting tactics: the implicit presentation that the U.S. military can provided a “baller’s” lifestyle.

Around four years ago, this trend made national headlines as it was reported that the U.S. government was paying in excess of $10,000 per set of after-market rims. These aftermarket rims were being used to outfit SUV’s that were used by recruiters.

The implicit message that the U.S. government was trying to send was that if you join the military, you too can ride around in fancy cars with expensive rims.

In their SUV’s with their fancy rims, recruiters were instructed to ride around low-income areas in an attempt to grab attention and “sell dreams.”

Now, these techniques have made their way to college campus across the country. Last week, an impossible-not-to-notice Hummer H2, complete with after-market rims and blaring stereo system found itself parked right outside the Student Center, surrounded by military recruiters.

The over-accessorized commotion was aimed at drawing the attention of young, impressionable students. All a student had to do was look in the direction of the commotion and a recruiter would pop-up, telling the student that he or she too could be enjoying the good life. Not only would the student be able to ride around in big SUV’s with fancy rims, but if the student signed up now, he or she would be able to have his or her education paid for and student loans paid off.

What about the commitment and the reality of the job? Nevermind that. Glitz and glamour sells, not reality

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PAC-to-PAC transfers should be limited With all of the excitement surrounding national political investors who have lined their pockets. politics, it is easy to forget the actions occurring in The legislature is not looking to eliminate PACs our own state. Last Tuesday marked the convening altogether but rather to ban the transferring of of the 2008 Alabama Legislature. money from PAC-to-PAC. A cap of $500 has been The president pro tempore of the Alabama placed on the amount of money that a business can Senate, Hinton Mitchem, has a clear idea of what contribute to a PAC but there is no limit on the he feels is the most important item on the docket. number of PACs, they can contribute to or how He wants the first order of business to concern plac- much a PAC is allowed to give to a candidate. ing a ban on the transfer of funds from political A business can potentially give large sums of ction committees. money to a candidate, they just can't do it directly This is an issue that has been debated for several and must funnel the money through different PACs years with no meeting of the minds. The House of that has lead the opposition to liken it to money Representatives has repeatedly passed different ver- laundering. sions of bans on PAC-to-PAC transfers,but they While businesses have to jump through these have been met with much resistance from the hoops, trial lawyers and labor unions don't have Senate. these stipulations and are free to A division between the contribute at their own discretion.

Republican and Democrat It is argued that PACs simply allow Jennifer Horton sectors of the Senate have a way for businesses to do that prevented an agreement which lawyers and unions have being reached. Now, you engaged in for years.

Staff Writer may be asking yourselves There are people on each side of the fence: those who feel like busiwhy is this important or pernesses should be allowed to compete haps even wondering what a with lawyers and unions in the PAC is?

Political Action Committees exist to provide a name of fairness and those who feel it is a bit shady legal way for candidates to receive funds from cor- having funds furtively put in different places with porations. They are private groups who collect the intent of it all ending up for support of the same money through donations and use the funds to cause. It seems like a solution that would placate either support or try to thwart a candidate or cer- both sides would be to lift the cap on the amount of money that a business can contribute to a PAC or to tain political party.

Now, obviously, any person who has a desire to take it a step further and eventually eliminate the enter the political arena needs funding isn't your need for PACs all together.

People running for government office should every day citizen whom they are looking to for monbe allowed to solicit funds due to the high cost of etary support.

Controversy surrounds PACS in that it allows for campaigning. However, it should be transparent to candidates to get money without disclosing the the people where the candidates' funds have come source. Can a candidate get financial backing from from. Smokescreen government causes confusion a private group without being swayed to look out and takes away from the important issues that for the best interest of the businesses aiding their should be receiving attention as well as adding discampaigns? Elected officials should be looking out trust and apathy from those who feel general public for the interests of the general population, not the involvement in government is lacking.

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February 11, 2008

POINT COUNTERPOINT I

Should USA get more days off for Mardi Gras?

We should be given more time off Michael Winters STAFF WRITER michael.m.winters@gmail.com

Does anyone else find it ridiculous that South Alabama students and employees only have Tuesday off during Mardi Gras? I'm not complaining simply for the sake of complaining; Mobile is the birthplace of the oldest traditional carnival celebration in the United States, having begun in 1703 when Mobile was the capital of French Louisiana. This alone is reason enough for Monday, if not Wednesday, too, to be included as part of the University's Mardi Gras holiday. I highly doubt I'm the only person who believes our academic calendar should be amended in some areas, and it's a shame that, to the best of my knowledge, no one has specifically tackled this shortcoming in The Vanguard.

In my hometown of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, which is located roughly halfway between Mobile and New Orleans, my high school was closed on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Even elementary and high schools in Mobile enjoy the luxury of having a three-day holiday, which I noticed driving to a parade downtown on Tuesday.

But what baffles me more is that the University of Southern Mississippi, located in Hattiesburg, an unusual city among the others hosting Mardi Gras festivities, also gives its students a three-day holiday.

Simply, there is much more reason, given Mobile's historically French background, for South Alabama to have a three-day holiday as well. It's rather strange that, in comparison to schools with a three-day holiday, all we are given is a single day of celebration. Since Mardi Gras is a threeday celebration, this makes about as

More time off also means more work

much sense as showing up late for the Matt Flanagan birth of your firstborn.

OPINION EDITOR pufferfishx@gmail.com In addition to Mobile's heritage, convenience is also one of the main reasons I hate taking the “con” side to this arguwhy we, too, should have a three-day holment, but unfortunately it has to be said: If iday. For those wishing to take advantage we were given extra time off for any reaof the Mardi Gras holiday, perhaps to son whatsoever, we would then logically travel out of state, their trip will be shorthave one or two less days of class and lived, since the majority of students will would have to somehow make up the leave for their destination Friday aftermaterial missed in this way. noon and will have to Is that a big deal? return to Mobile on Probably not. But it is Sunday for classes the reality we always face Monday morning. The when dealing with current academic calenreforming our academic dar essentially limits calendar. And this is not such a vacation to two as easy as simply “adding days, but with the addia few days here and tion of Monday and there.”

Wednesday in the holiLike one of our writday, this will, of course, ers mentioned last fall, give students and we only get 11 days off employees the opportufor holiday/break time nity to go on more throughout the entire worthwhile vacations, academic year. This even if only to go to means that we are in New Orleans to partake class every other single in the famous Sunday day of the academic http://www.zhurnaly.com/ year. Sure, that’s a lot of night parades.

Like the article pub- There has been much dispute over the class time and does not lished in The Vanguard amount of time off given to students and amount to a whole lot of last fall that advocated a faculty for the season of Mardi Gras. break time, but the point much-needed fall break here is that we work for a for us students—an issue long period of time that I hear is being seriously considthroughout the year. We don’t get breaks ered—my hope is that with the publishbecause our syllabi and faculty calendars ing of this article, the powers that be will won’t allow for it. consider the validity of the issue that the This should not suggest, however, that University of South Alabama needs as it’s impossible or improbable or wrong or well as deserves a more appropriate a bad idea to add some break days in our Mardi Gras holiday, considering Mobile's calendar for Mardi Gras and up the close relationship with the foundation of school’s load on us. I don’t even feel right Mardi Gras in the United States. suggesting that we shy away from ques-

tioning our school’s logic on matters that directly affect us in this way. By all means, I actually believe that we should get more break time in (I’m a student too, remember!).

At the same time, what I have to say is quite obvious: Decrease the amount of time spent in classrooms, and you either lose time covering material or you lose material to cover (I’m not going to go into that lame analogy about mathematics I made last semester with fall break; if you didn’t get to read it, find it on our Web site or something).

In the former case, you lose time covering important topics relevant to your class.

The teachers would probably have to only slightly graze upon it without covering in the same depth you’d expect with another full day’s discussion.

In the latter case, the teacher may eliminate a day or two’s worth of material from the syllabus, resulting in one or two day’s worth of material not being covered at all.

The result in either case? You graduate from USA without JUST that much knowledge in you. Once again, this could be shrugged off and ignored, but I feel it still needs to be said.

It’s always an important idea to at least bring these matters up, however; and I’m proud to say that, even while we don’t get to have the time off some of our friends at other schools are enjoying (darn them), we’re at least willing to approach the fact of this problem in an open, civil manner that covers both practical and convenience lines. We’re willing to take positive steps toward problem solving in matters that greatly affect (and reflect) our university.

That much probably doesn’t need to be said. But I wanted to.

Question of the week: Do you think grades are a measure of success?

“No, because some successful people never went to college.”

“No. Some educated people still make dumb decisions.”

“No. Grades are a better measure of knowledge than success.”

Cameron Adkins Sophomore Communications Hannah Callais Sophomore Elementary Education

“No. Grades are too narrow a factor to determine a person’s success.”

Jacey Cobb Freshman Electrical Engineering Sara Baghaei Sophomore Biomedical Science

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February 11, 2008

The

February 11, 2008

Amphitheater X

from page 5

Danielle Moten, sophomore international studies major, said.

"Amphitheaters are a common feature on a lot of college campuses," Hanne Anderson, another sophomore international studies major, said. "I think adding one to South is a nice option for faculty and students to have, either for classes or just a place to eat lunch."

The new addition is to be constructed on the land between the Humanities Building and the library, according to the dean's office in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Peterson stated it would be closer to the

Candidates X

from page 4

Washington. Obama was also victorious on the Feb. 10 caucus in Maine.

With Obama’s most recent victories, the already small margin between Obama and Clinton has tightened. As of Feb. 10, Clinton has amassed a total of 1,148 delegates; Obama, 1,121.

The next round of competitions for both Democrats and Republican will be held on

Wells X

from page 6

been simmering in the souls of AfricanAmericans in the area and aided in the migration of approximately 6,000 AfricanAmericans from Memphis over the next two months.

People began asking Wells to speak at venues and give lectures to spread her message of racial quality.

Wells’ editorials were nothing more than words on paper to some, but proved to be a challenge to make a difference to others by taking a stand to against racism. Her words are accredited with starting what came to

Smith X

from page 1

V: What activities do you enjoy outside of work?

S: I love to play golf. I enjoy walking. I used to enjoy running, but my knees don't allow me to do that as much as I used to. I was distance runner in college, so I've worn my knees out.

V: How does college life today compare to your undergraduate experience at Berry College?

S: There are lots of the same issues that we still deal with today that we dealt with when I was a college student back then.

Issues such as looking for ways to get students involved in campus life, we're still doing a lot of that today. There may be a lot

Women’s X

from page 12

game in the second half and then (Arkansas State) shot until they made it. Going to the offensive glass is one thing that they are really good at and it was a point of emphasis in the last two days of practice. In the second half, when we needed to finish positions with stops, we just didn’t do it.

South Alabama started the game in a rut, failing to hit their first seven shots and allowing Arkansas State to pull to an 11-1 lead.

Vanguard library, near where maintenance just laid cement for a new sidewalk.

Although this endeavor is hosted by the College of Arts and Sciences, this amenity will be available for use by any class or organization on campus that wish to utilize it.

"He [Tyler Peterson] will be working with the director of facilities here,” Peterson said. “We have a Facebook group started called "Let's Build the Amphitheatre," and it already has 43 members. Tyler will need volunteers to help with the construction, so he is encouraging students and Boy Scouts to help him build something lasting on this campus."

Feb. 12 in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. On Feb. 19, Democrats will hold caucuses in Hawaii, and both parties will hold primaries in Washington and Wisconsin.

March 4 will see primaries for both parties in Ohio, Rhode Island, Texas and Vermont. Democrats will hold their Wyoming caucuses on March 8. Both parties will hold primaries in Mississippi on March 11. Reaming primaries will continue into June.

be known as the Anti-Lynching Campaign.

In 1893, Wells’ Anti-Lynching Campaign went global when she traveled to England after being asked there as a guest speaker. Upon her return she published “A Red Record: Tabulated Statistics and Alleged Causes of Lynchings in the United States.” The book reported vicious accounts of lynching in the United States, as given to her by a white source, from 1892 to 1894.

Wells’ hunger to make this world different from the way she found it is forever immortalized in books and essays. Today, her words continue to inspire activisim, motive change and challenge complacency.

more severe issues out there that we have to deal with today than when I was a college student, but there are a lot of similarities.

V: What advice do you have for the leaders of student organizations to get others involved?

S: It's more difficult today. I think that you see a lot more students working 10, 20, 30 hours per week than when I was a student. You are going to have to show more sympathy to that as a student organization and look at the times when you meet and the kind of activities that you expect from members of your organization. Students are being pulled in a lot of different directions today, so it’s going to require the student leaders of these organizations to find out what the members want out of the experience and try to achieve that.

When the Jaguars finally corrected their shooting woes and closed to within 3 points, Arkansas State’s rebounding was becoming a factor. “We basically shot until we made it,” Pietri said. “Arkansas State is good at crashing the offensive glass and creating second chance shots.”

The Indians were led by sophomore guard Veronica Smith, whose 23 points bested all scorers. Teammate Ebonie Jefferson followed closely with 15 points. South Alabama senior Monique Jones led the Jaguars with 13 points.

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Space Grant Undergraduate Scholarship The Alabama Space Grant Consortium invites applications for NASA Space Grant Undergraduate Scholarships. Space-related fields include any academic discipline or field of study (including the physical, natural and biological sciences; engineering; education; economics; business; sociology; behavioral sciences; computer science; communications; law and public administration) that is concerned with or that is likely to improve the understanding, assessment, development and utilization of space.

Scholarships awards are $1000 per academic year and may be renewed for an additional academic year for a total award of two years. Scholarship applicants must be junior or senior classification, U.S. citizens, have at least a 3.0 grade point average and be a full-time student.

Application materials are available from Dr. John Steadman, Campus Director, EGCB 108 or on the web at http://www.uah.edu/ASGC/applications.php. Deadline for receipt of applications is March 1, 2008 and should be submitted to Dr. John Steadman, Space Grant Campus Director, EGCB 108. For additional information, please call 460-6140.

20 Recycle X

from page 7

you electronic junkies, a few items you can recycle include your old computer (hard drive, monitor and keyboard), television sets, DVD and VHS players, your old cell phones and discarded pagers.

On average, each American produces around 4 pounds of garbage, most of which can be recycled a day.

That is around 1,642 pounds a year just for one person. If you’re not really into saving the environment – take into consideration the fact that most of what you recycle or donate is tax-deductible.

There are many recycling drop boxes in town for your convenience. Hillwood

Basketball X

from page 12

close score against a tough opponent, but came away with their 13th consecutive home victory Thursday night. The Jaguars played its most impressive twenty minute period yet, outscoring Arkansas State 42-25, en route to the 81-58 win in front of 5,799 fans at the Mitchell Center.

“Our guys came out tonight and played a full game of defense," head coach Ronnie Arrow said. "In the second half, our offense made the extra pass and we saw our shooting percentage go from 45 to 55 percent. We got stops tonight, especially in the second half. Arkansas State is a good shooting team and we held them to 28 percent from behind the arc. That's a pretty good effort."

The Jaguars led by as many as eight points in the first 10 minutes, but

The

Vanguard Shopping Center on Hillcrest Road, Azalea City Shopping Center on Azalea Road, St. Ignatius Church on Springhill Avenue, and Fred’s Shopping Center on Cottage Hill Road are a few of the local businesses that have recycling drop boxes.

For more information on how to “go green” by making simple adjustments to your everyday routine, visit http://www.greenhome.com, or for more local info, http://www.cityofmobile.org/recycle/.

You can also go to the Metro Mobile Recycling Drop-off Center, located at 1451 Government St. Their offices are open Monday Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Arkansas State closed to within two points with 4:38 left in the first half. South Alabama would go on to score the next four points before trading baskets to finish the half at 39-33.

The Indians opened the second half scoring three straight points before South Alabama countered with a 9-0 run themselves. A South Alabama 16-6 run followed, heightened by consecutive 3-pointers from Domonic Tilford, which increased the margin to 64-42 with 10:36 to play. Arkansas State would get no closer than 20 points.

“What we did in the second half was great,” Demetric Bennett said. “We started getting stops and made some shots.

We’re a good team when we’re playing together.” Bennett paced the team with 23 points and 6 rebounds. Tilford followed closely with 21 marks.

February 11, 2008

The

February 11, 2008

Homecoming X

from page 3

the tickets can be picked up at the Mitchell Center ticket office just prior to the game.

Plan to arrive on campus one hour before the events, as the Mitchell Center is expecting one of the largest crowds in history.

The best parking is located by the Mitchell College of Business or just west of the College of Engineering. For a printable parking map, go to http://www.southalabama.edu/usamaps/images/gamedaymap.j pg. JagTran will be in operation for all games.

A USA alumnus includes anyone who has ever attended USA in any capacity, whether or not he or she earned a degree. An alumnus should give his or her name and years attended to the attendant at the ticket window.

Kindergarten through 12th grade students, teachers and administrators from Mobile, Baldwin and all other area counties can get tickets by identifying themselves to the ticket attendant.

Mortar Board X

from page 7

making them better citizens and better prepared to face the future,” says Cobb.

The Azalea Chapter and its members have gained national notoriety for being an exceptional chapter of Mortar Board. For the past two years, they have been awarded the National Golden Torch Award for Excellence, as well as the National Project Excellence award for the Trick-or-Treat for Books and Top Prof. programs.

A faculty advisor, Dr. Dennis Fell, Chair of Physical Therapy, was awarded the Outstanding Advisor Award in 2006 and Dr. Sally Steadman of Engineering currently sits as the National President. For the past three years, South Alabama has had graduating seniors win Mortar Board graduate scholarships.

This spring, the chapter was granted two national grants, “The Mortar Board Week Visibility Grant” and “The Mortar Board

Vanguard USA employees and students can get tickets by showing an ID card, pay stub, name tag, business card or by wearing a uniform.

Employee tickets are now available at the USA Human Resources offices on campus, at the Medical Center or at Children's and Women's Hospital.

Summary of USA Homecoming Events on Saturday, Feb. 16: 8 a.m.: Jag 5K Run 2 - 5 p.m.: Tailgating party in the Beta/Gamma/Engineering parking lots 4 p.m.: Lady Jags vs. Florida Atlantic at the Mitchell Center 5:15 p.m.: Alumni reception for celebrated classes at Alumni Hall 6 p.m.: Bell Tower and Alumni Plaza groundbreaking ceremony and public fireworks show to be held just west of the Jaguar sculpture at the Mitchell Center 7 p.m.: Jaguar Men vs. Florida Atlantic at the Mitchell Center For more information about ticket promotions or Homecoming events, contact the USA Office of Public Relations at (251) 460-6211.

Project Grant.” On our own campus, Mortar Board has won the “South Alabama Organization Proficiency” award for the past five years.

Membership in Mortar Board is based on achieved senior status by this Fall 2008, but not graduating before December 2008.

Members must have a 3.1 GPA as well as exemplary achievement in scholarship, leadership and service to the campus and community. Membership is capped at 50 members on any campus, so it is a unique and excellent honor to be selected as a Mortar Board member.

An application can be found on the club's web site, http://www.usouthal.edu/mortarboard and more information about the national organization can be found at http://www.mortarboard.org. Applications are due February 15th, so don't miss your opportunity to become involved with this outstanding organization. As Cobb states, “it doesn’t get any better than this!”

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The University of South Alabama Office of Campus Involvement is offering students and faculty an opportunity to give back to the community during spring break March 10 and 11.

Students and faculty can volunteer with Volunteers of America Day Training Program for interaction with mentally challenged adults. They can work with Volunteers of America Light of the Village picnicking or outing with agency Light of the Village. They can also work on the premises of Habitat for Humanity on local construction sites.

If you are interested in serving, please e-mail your contact information. We will make more definite plans as we see how many students/faculty are available to serve.

Please contact Sally Cobb at (251) 460-7003 or by e-mail at scobb@usouthal.edu.

Free Homecoming basketball tickets The University of South Alabama will offer free tickets to students and their guests for the Homecoming games on Feb. 16.

The University has had a tremendous response to its student appreciation events for basketball and is having some of the largest crowds ever in the Mitchell Center. Likewise, the men's team is on the path of a record-winning streak, and the women's team is also doing well.

The Homecoming games will also feature the official groundbreaking of the USA Bell Tower and Alumni Plaza, which will be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 16, just west of the Jaguar sculpture at the Mitchell Center. This free public groundbreaking will include a fireworks show and the unveiling of a 30-foot photographic replica of the 130-foot tower.

Here are the FREE ticket details: 1) Students with ID can get two tickets in the student section plus up to 10 tickets for family and guests in the upstairs section. Due to the large crowds, there isn't space for larger groups in the downstairs student section. To save time in line, you can pick up your tickets in advance at the Mitchell Center ticket office, open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Use you tickets to recruit friends from you high school to USA! 2) Plan to arrive on campus 45 minutes before the game to allow time to get in the building.

The first 1,000 people at the men's game and the first 300 at the women's game will get a free USA Football T-shirt.

USA host Yannis Simonides The University of South Alabama College of Arts and Sciences, in collaboration with Mobile’s Greek community, will sponsor a one-man show by actor Yannis Simonides entitled “Cavafy: Passions and Ancient Days,” at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 26, at the USA Laidlaw Performing Arts Center.

The performance is based on the life and work of Greek poet Constantine P. Cavafy.

Simonides, the current president of the Greek Theater Foundation in New York City, also will present a master class at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 27, in the Laidlaw Performing Arts Center. The class is available to USA English and theatre students.

Tickets are $16, and $8 for students. They can be purchased in advance at the USA College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s office, Humanities Building, Room 118 or will be available at The Laidlaw Performing Arts Center at the time of the performance.

Both events will benefit the USA Hellenic Studies Endowment.

The endowment will provide partial support for a full-time faculty position in philosophy and classical Greek, as well as fund undergraduate study in Greece. To date, the endowment has raised nearly $700,000 through gifts and University matching dollars.

For more information, contact Lois Wims at (251) 460-7391 or Bernie Quinn (215) 6057434.

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February 11, 2008

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