vanguard
the feb 6, 2012
“If it matters to the USA family, it matters to us.”
New director of Facilties
USA remembers a Board of Trustees Member: page 4 vol. 50, no. 4
‘Flicked cigarette’ sparks fire at Mitchell College of Business
by Matt Weaver Senior Reporter The University of South Alabama recently announced changes at the facilities management office, promoting Randy Moon to interim director of facilities. The promotion occurred after the departure of long-time director Chris Willis. Vice President of Financial Affairs Wayne Davis insists that it’s business as usual at facilities management and updated The Vanguard on several key department stories. Willis left the department voluntarily over winter break. His departure was not discipline-related. Willis was presented with the opportunity to stay at South Alabama in a variety of different roles once the decision was made to promote Moon, but Willis opted to move on. “Chris has been a fantastic employee and I would be more than happy to write him a letter of recommendation should he ever ask for one,” Davis said. Both Moon and Willis applied for the facilities management position in 2007, when Davis first opened it for application. The two were the final applicants, and Davis was named director when Moon withdrew his see FACILITIES page 6
Matt Weaver/ Senior Reporter
USAPD and the Mobile Fire Department responded to a fire started by a ‘flicked’ cigarette according to USA Chief of Police Zeke Aull. The dry pine straw caught fire and USAPD officer Robbee Woodard used a fire extinguisher to subdue the blaze. No one was harmed and the fire was quickly contained. Officials ask smokers to carefully extinguish cigarettes before disposing of them.
Officer killed by escaped inmate Friday By Cassie fambro Editor-in-Chief
Courtesy of Press Register
Mobile Police Chief Michael T. Williams wore a black band in honor of the death of Officer Steven Green. Green was killed on duty Friday.
A Mobile police officer was killed Friday after a debacle reminiscent more of an action movie than reality. Officer Steven Green, 36, was fatally stabbed by a prisoner of Mobile Metro jail that managed to remove his handcuffs and assault Green. The prisoner, Lawrence Wallace Jr., 24, had a medallion around his neck that he reportedly used to stab Green in his successful attempt to flee. After assaulting the officer, Wallace fled in Green’s police vehicle. A manhunt ensued as the suspect led law enforcement on a car chase along Dauphin Island Parkway (DIP). Witnesses told local media outlets that “hundreds” of police vehicles were spotted along DIP and surrounding areas.
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Wallace eventually fled the vehicle and hid under a house, leading SWAT officers to use tear gas to get him to come out. In the effort to apprehend him, a second officer was wounded when the suspect shot him with a gun that he obtained from the stolen police vehicle. The three-hour conclusion resulted in Wallace being shot and killed by Mobile police. The suspect had initially been arrested for robbing a Dollar General by lighting a counter on fire. There is a video that can be found on local broadcast news WKRG’s website wkrg. com of Wallace on his “perp walk” where he can be seen ranting at reporters and cursing. The wounded officers were transported to the University of South Alabama Medical Center (USAMC).
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Mobile Police Chief Michael T. Williams addressed spectators and reporters at USAMC. “This is a sad day for law enforcement across the country and in the city of Mobile. We are a family, and that is why you see so much support here. This is a tragedy.” An officer with MPD since 2010, Green was the father of three children. He also coached youth football and was active in his community. According to the Mobile Press Register, a wake will be held at 5 p.m. Tuesday at Radney Funeral Home. His service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Sunlight Auditorium in Prichard. Anyone who would like to make a donation to Green’s family can make out a check referencing Green and send it to: Mobile Law Enforcement Foundation, 2460 Government St., Mobile, AL 36606.
in this issue (pg 10): Life (pg 7): Opinion (pg 12 ): Sports
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vol. 50, no. 4 / Feb. 6, 2012
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“University of South Alabama’s Student Voice”
editorial editor in chief associate editor senior reporter copy editor life editor opinion editor sports editor web editor
Cassie Fambro Genny Roman Matt Weaver Carey Cox Bailey Hammond Jeff Gill Jayson Curry naquita hunter
distribution
weather forecast
University police blotter
Feb. 6 - Feb. 13
Editor’s note: Have a question for USAPD? Email us at editor.in.chief@usavangaurd.com
weather forecast >>
mon
64 40
tue
65 42
wed
67 44
thu
66 45
fri
65 44
sat
63 40
sun
60 38
distribution manager Johnny Davis
advertising advertising manager Wesley Jackson graphic designer Brittany Hawkins
management adviser James Aucoin accounting Kathy Brannan
mission The vanguard, the student-run newspaper of the University of South Alabama, serves its readership by reporting the news involving the campus community and surrounding areas. The vanguard strives to be impartial in its reporting and believes firmly in its First Amendment rights.
submission and editorial policies Send letters and guest columns to: The vanguard University of South Alabama P.O. Drawer U-1057 Mobile, Ala., 36688. or editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com letters and guest columns must be received by 7 p.m. on the Wednesday prior to the Monday publication. Submissions should be typed and must include the writer’s name, year, school and telephone number. All submissions become the property of The vanguard. Unsigned letters will not be published. The vanguard reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for length and clarity. letters will be limited to 300 words. letters and guest columns are the opinion of the writer. The Staff editorial represents the consensus opinion of the editorial board, which is composed of the editor in Chief, Associate editor, Copy editor, Senior Reporter, and Opinion editor. All members of the editorial board have the same weight during weekly editorial board meetings. The vanguard has a commitment to accuracy and clarity and will print any corrections or clarifications. To report a mistake, call the editor in Chief at 251-460-6442 or e-mail editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com. The vanguard is published Mondays during the academic year, except for exam periods and vacations, and is published twice each summer. The vanguard is supported in part by an allocation from student activity fees and operates in the Student Media Department of the Division of Student Affairs. issues are available at most University buildings and select off-campus locations. The first copy is free. Additional copies are $1 each.
vOl. 50, NO. 4 / Feb. 6, 2012
The start of the school week will be sunny and warm with highs in the mid 60s for Monday and Tuesday with overnight lows in the low 40s. Clouds will start to move into the area on Wednesday as a cold front will begin approaching the area. Highs will be in the upper 60s with nighttime lows in the mid 40s. Scattered showers and thunderstorms will move into the area on Thursday and last through Friday. Highs will be in the mid 60s with scattered nighttime showers and lows in the mid 40s. isolated Thunderstorms will be possible on Saturday with partly cloudy skies and highs in the low 60s and lows on Saturday night in the low 40s. Skies will be clear on Sunday and become mostly sunny. Temperatures will be a little cooler with highs in the low 60s and lows in the upper 30s.
1/27 4:10 p.m. Theft of property 3rd degree ($50) An iPhone was reported stolen at the Student Center. 1/28 9:31 p.m. Public intoxication and giving false information to a law enforcement officer. A non-affiliate was arrested at The Grove. 1/29 3:03 p.m. Criminal mischief 3rd degree ($500 or less) and harassing another person A female reported to police that she was being harassed by another female and that her dorm room door was damaged ($250). 1/30 12:48 p.m. Possession of marijuana 2nd degree A non-affiliate was arrested at Stokes Hall for possession of marijuana. 1/31 12:38 p.m. Auto damage $1,000 A Hyundai Elantra was struck on the right side while parked and unoccupied on the North side of the library by an unknown vehicle and driver who left without leaving the minimum required information. 1/31 3:17 p.m. Theft of article from vehicle A male reported having his vehicle broken into by breaking the front driver wing vent and had his car stereo stolen ($290). 1/31 11:22 p.m. Failing to appear (Traffic) A non-student was turned over to the Mobile Police Department at Delta 4 for two failures to appear for traffic warrants. 2/1 10:31 a.m. Harassment/harassing another person A female student reported being harassed by a male student.
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USAPD: 460-6132
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vol. 50, no. 3 / Feb. 6, 2012
Board of Trustees member Larry Striplin remembered by patrick herring Staff Reporter
The University of South Alabama lost one of its own recently. Longtime member of the Board of Trustees and respected Alabama businessman Larry D. Striplin, Jr., 82, died Monday, Jan. 23, at a hospital in Birmingham. A native of Selma, Striplin was appointed to the Board of Trustees in 1998 and represented Dallas and Lowndes counties. Former Gov. Bob Riley reappointed him in 2005. “Larry Striplin was a tireless advocate for improving people’s lives through education and provided his time, talent and resources as a supporter and valued trustee of the University of South Alabama,” USA President Gordon Moulton said. “His many good works will forever enhance the quality of life of countless citizens who benefit from USA’s teaching, research and health care programs.
“Mr. Striplin was particularly committed to building the character of young people through involvement in athletics and extracurricular activities, and we will especially remember him for his strong support of the development of USA’s successful intercollegiate football and marching band programs.” More than just a member of the Board, Striplin contributed to the University and the state of Alabama through philanthropy and his support of multiple institutions, including Spring Hill College, Belmont College in Nashville, and his alma mater, Birmingham Southern College. One of his many philanthropic projects at USA was the Larry D. Striplin, III, Basketball Practice Facility. It is dedicated to the memory of his late son, who was a former student and manager of Jaguar basketball. Also, Striplin supported the Joseph and Rebecca Mitchell Learning Resource center in the Mitchell College of Business; and he donated multiple sculptures to the Geri Moulton Chil-
dren’s Park at USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital. He was a popular sports figure in Alabama having served as a chairman of the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame. It was there that he established the Bryant-Jordan Scholar Athlete Foundation which annually awards scholarships to 96 high school scholar athletes. Striplin is survived by his wife, Rhonda; daughter, Janet S. Nottrodt; son David R. Striplin; and daughter, Cynthia S. Victor. He also leaves eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, two stepchildren, and a step-grandchild. Courtesy of USA Public Relations
Striplin received his bachelor’s degree in education from Birmingham-Southern College in Birmingham, Ala., and his master’s degree in education from George Peabody College (now Vanderbilt University) in Nashville, Tenn.
vol. 50, no. 4 / Feb. 6, 2012
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vol. 50, no. 4 / Feb. 6, 2012
Changes to Facilities made facilitieS, from page 1 name from consideration. Moon was later hired at South Alabama in a variety of different departments before serving as Willis’ assistant director up until 2011. “We were very fortunate to have two highly qualified individuals apply for the director’s position, and when Randy finally decided to join the University, we were able to use him in a variety of different roles,” Davis said. “Randy is a talented individual, and we expect him to do a great job in his current position.” Moon is listed as the interim director but that’s only temporary until he asks for the tag to be removed. Davis has said that the University isn’t actively seeking a permanent director of facilities and that they expect Moon to have no problems completing the transition. “We don’t expect any issues,” Davis said. “We’re just giving him time to learn the nuances of the position.”
Davis, 69, has been at the University for 33 years and has seen the campus grow from humble beginnings. He’s very much invested in the University’s construction projects and is listening to student feedback. The North Drive sidewalk construction has caused frustration among students having to park a distance from the humanities building and library. Davis expressed a desire to see students exercise patience with the understanding that the renovations would be beneficial to everyone. Davis also praised the uniformity of the newer buildings, agreeing with University President Gordon Moulton’s assessment that the new buildings looked “distinctively South Alabama.” Davis feels that it is important that the buildings look similar and fit a consistent South Alabama standard. With Moon and Davis calling the shots, standards will be met.
What do you think about JagMail’s changes? Let us know. Editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com See thevanguardonline.com for more information.
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vol. 50, no. 4 / Feb. 6, 2012
On Abolishing the Grocery Tax Shivam Amin contributing writer Americans are fat. Alabamians are especially fat. We all know the saying “thank God for Mississippi, or we’d be the worst at everything.” That’s beside the point. The fact of the matter is that obesity is an especially prevailing problem in Alabama, and initiatives have to be taken if we want to make any sort of stance against this possibly crippling epidemic. One way to achieve this is to abolish the grocery tax in Alabama. The facts don’t lie: the states with grocery taxes are consistently the most overweight. This group encompasses states such as Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas and Tennessee. Obesity is not a problem that can be solved overnight. It is a cultural problem as much as it is a problem involving individuals. Until we make strides in changing the culture in Alabama, people are still going to be obese. One way to do this is to encourage people to buy their own food. Alabama is notorious for taxing those below the federal poverty line, some of the highest taxes in the country for that group. Providing food for some families is a real problem, and sometimes they have to eat unhealthily in order to afford other necessities. Will abolishing grocery taxes solve this problem? Certainly not, but it can make their lives a little bit easier. Maybe next time they’ll forego the McDonald’s trip and buy fresh produce from the market. We have to do something other than simply telling people that they’re fat and they need to exercise. There has to be some incentive, some impetus for Alabamians to be healthier. If we can make it favorable for people to purchase groceries, it will be a step in the right direction. As for the lost revenue the state government may suffer, in the short term it may be a bit debilitating. Over the long run, however, a healthier state means spending less money by the state government on healthcare. The benefits will certainly outweigh the initial costs. We can really move forward as a state by getting rid of the grocery tax.
opinion Way to go, USAPD Police Chief Zeke Aull says that USAPD is trying to aid in being “proactive” against date rape by creating awareness. Even though there have been no date rapes reported on campus, police are handing out coasters that detect GHB and ketamine, popular date rape drugs. The coasters only cost about 40 cents, making them a wise investment in the lives of South students. Most orders for the coasters do come from universities, and they are becoming more prevalent. This is an exceptional step in creating awareness and acknowledging that date rape is a legitimate issue among college students. The American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress (AAETS) states that date rape can be one of the most under-reported crimes on any campus. They stress that women become aware and exercise caution in unfamiliar situations. AAETS suggests not to drink from a punch bowl, accept drinks from an open container, share a drink or accept drinks from strangers. USAPD has taken a positive role in the aiding in awareness of the dangers of date rape and has provided a tool that will hopefully be common-place as soon as possible in local bars, parties and other venues with alcohol. Kudos, USAPD.
Editorial Board
Jeff Gill, opinion Editor opinion.editor@usavanguard.com
Our view >> a staff editorial
Courtesy USA Police
USAPD is distributing coasters that measure levels of possible date rape drugs in drinks.
Cassie Fambro > Editor in Chief Genny Roman > Associate Editor
Jeff Gill > Opinion Editor Matt Weaver > Senior Reporter
Bailey Hammond > Life Editor Jayson Curry > Sports Editor
Jag Pulse >> opinion poll
Upperclassmen: Have you noticed a shift in the bicycle culture after the introduction of JagBikes? “Yes, definitely. I have “I haven’t, but even tried to ride the my classes are mostly in UCOM.” JagBikes around, and I haven’t ridden a bike in years!”
Brandin Brosh Elementary Ed. Senior
Megan Heatherly Spanish Señor
“Not really... but then again I haven’t been paying attention.”
“Yes, but I would account that more to the introduction of bike lanes. We definitely need more.”
“There are obviously more bikes on campus. The change is obvious when walking past Epsilon before and after JagBikes.”
Steven Arnold Biomedical Sciences Senior
Mikey Roye Geology Junior
Imran Mohiuddin English Sophomore
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point // counterpoint
vol. 50, no. 4 / Feb. 6, 2012
Should the US government give aid money to transitional governments?
Point
>> Aid to Egypt should be denied
By: Russ Hardin Open revolt, exile and extrajudicial killings across North Africa and the near East have remained at the forefront of international news cycles over the last year. Dysfunctional regimes have either perched on the brink or collapsed entirely. Tunisia, the first country to oust its president, underwent a relatively peaceful and orderly transition and is stable. Tunisia has been the exception. Libya is under the control of a patchwork of ad hoc militias that sprang up from the rebels who removed and summarily executed Muammar Qaddafi. Syria is in the throes of deep unrest and it would appear that Bashar al-Assad, in spite of heavy-handed use of soldiers and police to brutally suppress his opposition, may soon be on the way out. Egypt continues to suffer unrest months after Hosni Mubarak’s abdication. A military junta holds power, and recent parliamentary elections have been marred by fresh outbreaks of violence and heavyhanded official interference. International observers and aid workers in Egypt have been detained by officials seemingly intent on suppressing international oversight of their transition to a post-Mubarak government. Under these circumstances, recent calls to resume aid payments to these countries (with the possible exception of Tunisia) are premature and extremely unwise. Denying foreign aid payments to Libya is a no-brainer; the situation there is far less orderly than in Egypt. Until the power vacuum left behind in Qaddafi’s wake is filled peacefully (and Libya’s many provisional militias are brought to heel) we shouldn’t spare them another consideration financially.
The Obama Administration has already warned the provisional Egyptian government that billions of dollars in aid depended upon their satisfying conditions of congressional legislation that implored Egypt to take swift and concrete steps towards a democratically-elected government. Three days after this warning was given, the junta began detaining foreigners with ties to legal and aid organizations. These included Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood’s son. Fresh unrest had broken out following the elections as the military installed its own hand-picked Prime Minister, calling into question their commitment to transparent and free elections. Until Egypt releases all foreign poll observers and aid workers in its custody, there is no question at all that further aid should be denied. Human rights concerns in Egypt must likewise be addressed fully and openly. At a minimum financial aid to Egypt must be withheld until its military junta hands the reins to a democratically elected government committed to honoring its current treaty obligations with the world at large. Even if the United States weren’t already in a massive fiscal hole with anemic GDP growth, its international aid programs in general are in need of drastic restructuring. Untold billions of dollars have been handed to kleptocratic regimes for decades with little to no oversight or accountability and yet there are those who would continue to keep the coffers (and many despots’ offshore bank accounts) open. If the U. S. cannot approach foreign aid maturely and ensure that every dollar spent serves its intended purpose, it has no business spending its citizens’ money abroad.
Counterpoint >> Invest... but wisely By: Twila Tschan In this time of economic downturn, when the everyday lives of hardworking Americans are marked by sack lunches, walking to work and “staycations,” it’s hard to advocate a foreign policy that sees the U.S. government sending tax dollars to emerging countries such as Egypt and other “Arab Spring” nations. Keeping up with these countries in transition is like keeping up with the Kardashians —they can’t even get along with themselves let alone with outsiders, and the idea of “commitment” extends to 72 days at best. In this globalized society, the only thing more costly than getting involved in foreign affairs is not getting involved in foreign affairs. America has an image problem. We acknowledge this fact, which is why the biggest cheers at a Ron Paul rally invariably erupt when he announces his plans to withdraw all foreign troops so we can stop “policing” the world and draining our resources. This is of course wonderful in theory, but impractical in reality. America can no more withdraw from the world and return to the isolationist policies of the early 20th century than you can delete your mother’s Facebook Friend Request; established, dependent relationships run too deeply to simply be erased by the click of a mouse. Part of America’s image problem has been its ties to Israel. Osama Bin Laden cited connections to Israel and the unresolved Palestinian conflict as one of the primary factors influencing his orchestration of the Sept. 11 attacks. Through unswerving support of Israeli policies, the U.S. has effectively turned its back on the rest of the Middle East, mak-
ing diplomatic resolution to the various conflicts there virtually impossible. By providing economic aid to countries such as Egypt, Libya and Tunisia as they transition into forms of democracy or any sort of cohesive government, the United States has the opportunity to give its foreign policy a “makeover.” The idea is not to tear Israel down but to be seen as lifting other countries in the area up out of the political instability rooted in poverty. How the aid is given is of utmost importance. The world does not need any more nukes and mechanized armies. Emerging leaders in transition countries don’t need to be padding their Swiss Bank accounts. They need to be encouraging development and entrepreneurship among their people. Microloans are one way of giving that has experienced success in the past decade. The idea is that by giving small loans in the amounts of $25 or $50 to local people (often women with children), the community at large will benefit by increased economic activity. Nonprofit Microloan organizations such as “Kiva” boast an amazing 98.88 percent repayment rate within six months of the initial loan (kiva.org). That’s better than the repayment rates of both student loans and credit card loans in the United States. Putting money in the hands of autocratic despots is, I agree, risky and foolish. Putting money in the calloused hands of a mother striving to provide a better life and education for her children is not only an “instant image facelift” but also the best investment one could make. In the interest of our own national security and the stability of the world at large, I say it is time to invest… but wisely.
>>> Opinion Editorial: In defense of Mitt Romney’s mouth Jeff Gill Opinion Editor Last week was a rollercoaster of sorts for poor Mitt. Everyone votes for him by default, which must be a depressing position to be in. He got 52 percent of the women’s vote in Florida, which means he is more or less a sex symbol to the voting populace (enough to make me drop out of the race and move to Florida). A wascally Donald Twump also was allowed to conduct a press release to endorse Mitt Romney, which is billed by MSNBC as a “bad signal,” but “not a big deal” by FOX News. However, the most commendable thing in this past topsyturvy seven days was his comment on the poor and very poor.
Romney showed his true colors by commenting that he is “not concerned about the very poor.” He has done something great with his choice of words that were, well, very poor. Dirt-digging media has become very prevalent in this election year, and this misstep will be no differently exploited than Cain’s sexcapades or Perry’s verbal ineptitude. He has allowed the focus of the election to be shared by those who are very poor, a win for those who are not shown the road to upward mobility. Recently, I have been lucky enough to watch C-SPAN and catch Tavis Smiley’s “Symposium on Poverty in America,” which called for poverty to be brought forth as a real issue to the public. It was an interesting two-hour broadcast with
a full panel of extraordinarily smart and forward-thinking people; they were all convinced that there is a social inequality in America that needs to be fixed and offered several solutions. Calling attention to the issue of poverty may breach a hole wide enough for the very poor to be included in the Obama platform. It is a small extension of the job-creation agenda that the Obama administration has been advocating. It is ludicrous to defend Romney on such a core problem that he is ignoring. If our media demagogues deem it more worthy to cover the issue, it will become more prevalent in the race and possibly followed through with real policy. We can only hope the focus is on poverty and not on crucifying Mittens.
COURTESY OF MITTROMNEY.COM
Mitt Romney stands a shot at inadvertently helping the very poor.
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vol. 50, no. 4 / Feb. 6, 2012
Letter to The Editor: Stop the drama Experience should breed understanding, not contempt, one reader shares. Dear Editor, In my little short life, I have never had the experience of having a full blown anxiety attack. You know, the ones that cause you to vomit and make you pass out. Yeah, those. But last night, I had the pleasure of experiencing my first one. Why? Because I’m a baby of sorts, but also because I’m a fixer. You may not ever notice, but the majority of my life is consumed with trying to sort and help all of your damn problems, and you frustrate me that you don’t fix them yourselves more often. I’m quite aware that I over-analyze every situation in my life to the point that it is a problem, but I wouldn’t do any of this, though, if I didn’t love you humans so much. Because the truth is, you people rarely, and I do mean RARELY, take time to think out your problems and try to make the world a better place, so instead I’m stuck embarrassing myself now, spilling out my issues and beliefs so that it might actually affect one of you. I’m ranting about this and revealing a horrible and quite embarrassing situation because I’m hoping you will take from this, and then maybe I won’t have to ever have this happen to me again. Okay. Here it goes: So the cause of my anxiety attack was the realization that almost everyone in this world is fake. It seems like every situation I’m thrust in, and every conversation I listen to, and every event that I see unfold, I notice how much people are not themselves. Everybody and their momma want to go around putting up different masks. Pretending to be different people. Pretending to be too cool to care. And I realize that all of this stems from being hurt or scared. I realize that most people in this world won’t be so kind to you. I know they have hurt you before. I get that you just don’t want to feel any of that pain ever again. I realize that we rarely wear our heart on our sleeves anymore. I realize that we are so scared of people not liking us that we will do and say anything to keep from being hurt but, God, does it only f--k this world up even more. I CAN NOT STRESS ENOUGH THAT WHEN WE PUT UP WALLS AGAINST ONE ANOTHER WE BECOME STAGNANT. And when I say stagnant, I mean we stop growing. When we stop growing, this world turns to s--t. So here’s me being mean: grow up.
Put on your big kid panties and stop worrying about what everyone else is going to think about you. Stoicism is not the way to go. Whoever said to be weary to the point of cruelty of each other can go jump off a bridge. Start loving each other more and start talking to each other. When we communicate our REAL thoughts and our REAL beliefs, we can then understand each other better. And when we understand each other? Well the world just gets a little more comfortable. We stop judging others so much. We start realizing how we are human, therefore all connected. I wish I could stress to you enough that when you hurt each other, you are hurting yourself. You are hurting our growth. We have so many problems to deal with every day that we shouldn’t have to worry about each other. We should be trying to help each other. If you want people to accept you, then you first have to accept yourself. Analyze your problems, break them down, use them to help you grow. When you are comfortable with yourself and you know deep down that you like you, then no matter what anyone sees and says, it won’t matter because you know it is simply because they don’t understand. And they don’t understand because of the same reasons you once did not. They were scared or hurt. And once you have this concrete belief that you are the person you need to be, start communicating it. Start telling people why you think certain things. In social situations, don’t alter yourself. Continue being you. I promise it will be hard, but I promise that it will also be worth it. There will be some people that will dislike you, be jealous of you and want to tear you back down. But if you survive the tough stuff, you learn so much about the world. You learn to be happier. You find souls similar to yours. You make real friends. And things just get better. They really do. There was my hippie rant for the day: Peace and love people. Accept and understand one another. Accept and understand yourself. BE YOURSELF. ALWAYS. Before you make me puke again. D.L. Junior
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Bailey Hammond, jagLife Editor life.editor@usavanguard.com vol. 50, no. 4 / Feb. 6, 2011
Mirror, mirror show me the future bailey hammond JagLife Editor
Growing up: sometimes you just have to do it. Put on those big kid britches and act your age, or at least a facsimile thereof. One of my favorite quotations, by James Allen, goes a little something like this: “A man sooner or later discovers that he is the master-gardener of his soul, the director of his life.” At some point you will wake up to the fact that college is going to end, unless you’re a perpetual student, and you are going to have to start making some important decisions. This turning point may come suddenly with a pivotal birthday or it may creep up on you and then reveal itself in small pieces. What matters, however, is how you deal with this new development. Sure, your parents or other family will be there for you, but you’re an adult now, and it’s time to start acting like one. What does it mean to be an adult, though? Is it reaching a certain age or completing a degree? A combination of both? Answering those questions is no easy task in itself, and everyone is bound to have different answers. It’s so easy to defer that moment of adulthood in favor of partying, late nights and fun while we’re relatively young, but what about the future? I’m not saying we should be monks and devote ourselves to austere lives while in college (quite the opposite), but I am encouraging a forward-thinking kind of existence. The truth of the matter is no one is going to force you to grow up; that’s something that you must do for yourself. But on the other hand, those around you won’t wait forever for you to get a handle on your life when they are ready to move on to that next chapter. So be the director of your life and create a story arc that includes growth.
goveconexecutive.com
Scholarship comes in many forms, but those who apply themselves regularly and eagerly to study are most likely to reach the success of which they dream.
USA Scholars Showcase The inaugural event provided a personal touch for prospective students. jake howell JafLife Writer The University of South Alabama’s campus was occupied by some of the best and brightest high school students from this year’s graduating class. The students were invited to attend the first USA Scholars Showcase, an event designed to help them see just what USA has to offer. At first glance, the Scholars Showcase could seem like a small version of USA Day. After all, the students began their visit with a campus tour that highlighted the incredible growth that has occurred on campus within the last few years. After the tour, however, the similarities between USA Day and the Scholars Showcase disappeared. The students, fresh off the Jagtrans, were brought into the Mitchell Center for an Honors Panel session. Seven members of the University’s Honors Program were present to relate to the students why they chose USA even when they had other opportunities. When asked why she chose to participate in the panel, Lauren Gessner, a senior political science major, said, “I love to share my college experience with others because my years at South have helped to shape me into who I am and who I want to become... I hope that by telling our stories, the students in attendance left with excitement for what their story at South could be!” A question and answer session followed the panel, which brought up topics such as job offers after graduation and the proverbial question of “Should I live on campus or off?” Nikki Reed, a sophomore majoring in psychology and spanish, participated in the panel and had this to say, “The event was
an excellent way to recruit students because it gave the seniors one-on-one time with current college students at South who are excelling... I didn’t get that chance until I was actually at summer orientation.” Once questions were answered, Dr. David Stearns, associate vice-president of enrollment services, introduced Jessmyn Ward. Ward, an assistant professor in the English department, recently won the National Book Award for fiction for her novel “Salvage the Bones.” Ward, who took a break from her book tour to return for the Scholars Showcase, treated the young scholars and their families by reading an excerpt from that same novel. The reading detailed part of the story of a poor black family and the days leading up to Hurricane Katrina. After the reading, the students and their families were able to have face to face conversations with many of the University faculty during a lunch provided by Aramark. This is something that doesn’t normally occur during ordinary visits to college campuses. Sid King, a senior meteorology major and president of the Honors Program Organization, also participated in the panel and praised the event, saying, “Every detail was nicely covered, from the message of the showcase itself to the hospitality of the administration. It would be fantastic to do this every year.” All in all, from the excellent introduction video to the goody bags given to the students as they left, the Scholars Showcase was a resounding success.
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vol. 50, no. 4 / feb. 6, 2011
Calling all artists: show of a lifetime Hey.
Stuart Sox JagLife Editor From musicians to dancers to actors and to artists of all mediums, it is the shared dream of all creative minds to broadcast their talents for the entire world to see. Even if it’s not an actor’s first Hollywood red-carpet movie premiere or a painter’s debut at a prominent Soho, New York art gallery, everyone has to start somewhere, right? If you’re an aspiring artist, catch your “big break” at Arts Inspired: Soul of the Port City—where talented artists of Mobile converge for an event that exemplifies the artistic quality, originality and diversity of the Gulf Coast. The USA Music Business Student Association is searching for artists and performers to participate in this remarkable event that will feature various art forms including music, dance, theatre, poetry, visual arts and comedy/improvisation, among others. Arts Inspired is a vivid testament to the burgeoning art culture of greater Mobile and an event attended by numerous art lovers in the surrounding areas. Artists that take part in Arts Inspired will have the opportunity to demonstrate their talent in front of a diverse audience and network with other artists with similar interests and ambitions. This year’s event is highly anticipated by many members of the community, including Charlie Smoke, associate director
Hey, you.
Yeah, you.
Are you interested in writing for The Vanguard JagLife section? Just send a writing sample to life.editor@usavanguard. com and you could be on your way to publishdom. It’s that easy. bloodshotrecords.com
of the Mobile Arts Council, who shared his excitement in stating, “Loved the first edition, looking forward to the second!” Proceeds from the event will be used to fund the music outreach and education programs of the Mobile Arts Council. All performers in the event will also receive a premium-quality video of their full performance. Arts Inspired: Soul of the Port city will be held on Thursday, March 22 at 7:30 p.m. in the USA Laidlaw Performing Arts Center Reciting Hall. Artist screenings will be held on Thursday, Feb. 9, begin-
ning at 5 p.m. For information on how to become part of this event, contact Ian Weaver (251-802-5197 or doolbro@gmail.com). Also, check out Arts Inspired online at facebook.com/ArtsInspired and at southalabama.edu/music/artsinspired. Whether you seek to perform or appreciate, be a part of Arts Inspired and experience dancing, singing, acting, poetry and breath-taking visuals.
Really. We’re always looking for enthusiastic contributing writers. Major does not matter. We accept all kinds.
(Come to the JagLife Side. We drink coffee.)
People throw rocks at things that shine jake howell JagLife Writer In recent months, news outlets have reported staggering numbers of suicides. Even worse, the majority of these were teenagers or children who had not even begun to live their lives. Why would these young people choose to end their lives? Why did they feel that their only refuge was death? The answer: bullying. Many people conjure up the image of a big hulking kid stuffing a smaller kid in a locker or demanding lunch money when bullying is brought up. Bullying, however, has mutated like a virus and has become all the more dangerous for it. So much so, in fact, that a new term, bullycide, has been coined. Bullycide, according to bullyingstatis-
tics.org, “is suicide caused from the results of bullying. Children and teens who are bullied live in a constant state of fear and confusion in their lives. Many feel the only way to escape the rumors, insults, verbal abuse and terror is to take their own life.” Bullying isn’t just limited to school hallways anymore either. With the advent of Facebook and other forms of social media, bullying has gained immense popularity. Cyberbullying is especially prevalent, with people, many aided by the shroud of anonymity, tormenting others by spreading rumors online or sending hurtful messages on Facebook. Many of the teenagers or children whose suicides made national news were bullied because they were gay, overweight or just different.
One of the most high profile stories was that of Jamey Rodemeyer, a 14-year-old high school student who committed suicide after years of torment because of his sexual orientation. Lady Gaga even recognized and dedicated a song to Rodemeyer during one of her concerts. Like many kids who’ve been bullied, Rodemeyer went to those who should have helped. There is only so much a school official can do, however. Parents are the first and most effective line of defense against bullying. Unfortunately, parents have also been caught harassing kids. One prime example of this is Megan Meier’s story. She was a 13-year-old who committed suicide after being tormented by a mother in her own neighborhood who opened a fake Myspace account for that
very reason. Thankfully, these people are in the minority. Parents have an obligation to their children to teach them how to treat every person, no matter their age, gender, race, faith, sexual orientation or appearance, with respect. All too often, though, those who are being bullied are too scared to come forward. Many fear the “snitch” label or the repercussions from the bully for asking for help. It is the job of every human being to stand up against bullying. Doing so will empower those who are feeling so alone, hurt and unloved that they seek solace in death. We can stop the pain. More information about what you can do to stop bullying can be found at stopbullying.gov.
sports
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National signing day
jayson curry, sports Editor sports.editor@usavanguard.com vol. 50, no. 4 / Feb. 6, 2012
Athletics updates WOMEN’S TENNIS TOPS NICHOLLS STATE 6-1 The University of South Alabama women’s tennis team picked up the victory in their spring opener against Nicholls State on Thursday at the Bruce David Lubel Memorial Tennis Courts. The Jaguars defeated the Colonels 6-1 to start the season with a 1-0 record. “Today went really well,” said USA head coach Jaco Keyser. “Nicholls State has some really strong players. This was a good match to start the season, and I’m glad we came out with the win.” LADY JAGS PICK UP FIRST-EVER WIN AT WKU
usajaguars.com
USA head football coach Joey Jones talks about the 2012 signing class at a press conference.
Jayson Curry Sports Editor
As South Alabama football comes into its final season before being a full time member of NCAA Division 1-A, bringing in talented players is critical. The USA football coaching staff and the entire football program have worked hard for over a year to bring in the signing class of 2012. One key to this class for the Jags was bringing in players to provide depth at key positions. One of those key positions on the Jaguar offense was the offensive line. “Everybody asked me what we were after, and it was mainly the offensive line and the secondary again. We signed seven offensive linemen including one juniorcollege lineman, one transfer and five high school guys,” USA head football coach Joey Jones said. “On the defensive side, we got four junior-college transfers back there among the nine. I think we really answered a couple of those problems that we had with depth.” USA signed seven offensive linemen in this class, including four linemen who received three-star ratings by some recruiting publications. Leading this class of big men is Joseph Scelfo, a center from Georgia. Scelfo was rated as the top center in the state and will look to come in and contribute early for the Jags. Another lineman coming in is James Elliot, a transfer from the University of Kentucky. Elliott also received three-star
ratings when coming out of high school, and 20th nationally at the guard position. Elliott was a sought after linemen when he graduated, having offers from teams such as Michigan, Maryland, and Conference USA teams like Middle Tennessee and FAU. The other position that the coaching staff looked to fill was the defensive back position. After losing multiple key players from last year’s team like cornerback Anton Grahenreed and safety Ken Barefield, the defensive backfield needs depth and leadership. Coach Jones was able to sign seven defensive backs in this year’s class. Two big time players at the cornerback position that will be joining the USA football program are transfers Charles Watson and Anthony Harris. Watson transfers to USA from Mississippi Gulf Coast CC, where he helped his team beat two separate top five teams in the Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges and led them on their way to winning the MACJC championship. Watson has great size for a cornerback standing 6’1” and weighing 195 pounds. He has great cover skills shown in his stats that include multiple pass breakups and interceptions. He can tackle as well, finishing the 2011 season with 46 total tackles. Harris has great size as well, standing 6’1” and 175 pounds. Harris, the transfer from El Camino CC in California, is originally from Miami, Florida where he at-
tending Miami-Dade high school. Both Harris and Watson are upperclassmen transferring in and should look to play immediately when they arrive at USA. The rest of the 2012 class is rounded out by many different positions. One notable position is quarterback. USA was able to sign one quarterback out of Christian Brother’s High School in Grant Powell. Powell is 6’2” and 200 pounds and earned two-stars from ESPN and other recruiting websites. Powell chose USA over Arkansas State, Memphis and UAB. The other quarterback signed to USA is a transfer from Alcorn State, Brandon Bridge. Bridge is a duel threat quarterback who has great size at his position. Bridge is 6’5” and 215 pounds. Bridge is originally from Ontario, Canada, where he helped his high school team win back to back championships in his junior and senior seasons. Bridge amassed over 3,000 yards of total offense in his two seasons at Alcorn State, and his duel threat ability could fit perfectly in USA’s new spread offense. USA was also able to sign multiple defensive lineman and linebackers as well as two tight ends and a wide receiver. The 2012 class is considered by Jones and the rest of the football coaching staff as the best group to sign at USA so far. The best couldn’t have come at a better time for the Jags.
The University of South Alabama women’s basketball team rallied from an eight-point half time deficit to capture the program’s first-ever road victory over Western Kentucky Saturday afternoon, 56-52, at E.A. Diddle Arena. The victory was also the 200th--career win at USA for Pietri. The Jaguar alum also sits just one win shy of reaching the 100-SBC win mark for his career. “When you reach 200 wins, you obviously have to have a lot of help from assistant coaches, a lot of young woman who have played for you, a lot of training staff and managers,” Pietri said of the career mile-stone. “Clearly, it’s something that I have pride in and that I’ve been able to last long enough to win 200 games. WKU PULLS AWAY FROM MEN’S BASKETBALL IN SECOND HALF Western Kentucky went on an 11-2 run late in the second half and Jamal Crook scored 16 of his game-high 24 points after halftime as the Hilltoppers defeated the University of South Alabama men’s basketball team 75-66 Saturday night at E.A. Diddle Arena. WKU wins for the third time in the last four games to improve to 8-15 overall and 4-6 in the Sun Belt Conference. USA drops to 12-10 and 4-7. “We didn’t run our offense,” said USA head coach Ronnie Arrow. “There were three straight times where we made no more than two passes, took it to the hole, and the big guy was in there, shot-blocking. But the key for them tonight was, they had guys making shots that hadn’t made them all year long. They made them tonight.” -Wire Reports
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vol. 50, no. 4 / Feb. 6, 2012
Family is all Anthony Harris needs jayson curry Sports Editor
For Anthony Harris, it’s all about family. Whether you’re talking about his relationship with his late mom, his sister, who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer, or why he has chosen to come to USA to play football. Harris admits just by looking at him you probably wouldn’t imagine what he has been through in his life. The loss of his mother from a heart condition and his sister’s diagnosis has made him grow up more and really appreciate every day. “It has all made me more responsible,” Harris said. “I just try to make the best of every day.” After going through the recent trials of his life, the stress of college and being a student-athlete is nothing. And it helps that with being recruited, he has been through it all before. Harris attended Miami-Dade high school in Miami, where he had a stellar career and was recruited by numerous schools. Harris now attends El Camino CC in California, but he will be traveling back to the South this summer to attend USA. “Everything at South felt like family,” Harris said. “It is just a big family atmo-
sphere, and when the coaches are as close as they are, you can tell they will look out for their players.” Harris will also be bringing someone close to him back to Mobile from California. Perry Meiklejohn plays offensive line for El Camino and has also committed to play for the Jaguars next season. “Perry visited the week before me, and when he came back he told me, I had to see it to believe it;” Harris said. “He told me it was a beautiful school, and I ended up committing on my visit.” Harris also said a deciding factor for choosing USA was the building of the program and it’s short existence. “I want to come in and make my own legacy,” Harris said. “I want people to be compared to me when they play at USA down the road.” As for what Harris can offer USA in return, the answer is simple. “I am a family guy and a team guy, and I have the confidence in myself and my abilities to succeed,” Harris explained. “I think I am someone the coaches can trust and count on. “I make every decision with my heart, so I don’t regret anything.” Harris will be welcomed to the USA family this summer and he has no doubt about his decision.
courtesy of anthony harris
Anthony Harris and his late mother. Harris is one of 27 new faces that will be added to the USA football roster next season.
MLB offseason update j.t. crabtree Sports reporter The MLB Offseason is in full swing, and with the start of Spring Training is less than a month away. Teams are nearing the end of the rosters moves they will make to fill out their roster. With that, let’s take a look back at the topics I discussed would be headlines coming into the offseason. Where will Albert Pujols go? Pujols surprised a lot of people by not returning to the St. Louis Cardinals, the reigning World Series Champions, and signing with the Los Angeles Angels. What was not surprising was the price tag that came along with purchasing “The Machine’s” services. On Dec. 10, 2011, Pujols signed a 10-year deal, worth $254 million, the highest ever for a first baseman and second most overall in MLB history. Will C.C. Sabathia remain in New York? Sabathia did just as everyone expected him to opt-out of his current contract in order to receive a higher annual salary. C.C. would re-sign with the Yan-
kees for five years, $122 million on October 31, 2011. The First Basemen market. Perhaps the most shocking of the five topics involved one big name free agent first basemen. It wasn’t Pujuols who was mentioned before, and it wasn’t David Ortiz who was unable to work out a long-term deal with the Boston Red Sox and accepted arbitration. The Detroit Tigers turned heads by signing Prince Fielder to a 9 year, $214 million to play first base. The signing means All-Star 1st basemen Miguel Cabrera will move to third base, a position he played while a member of the Florida Marlins from 2003 to 2007. Fielder will also get a chance to play for the same team his father, Cecil, who was a Tiger from 1990 to 1996. Can the Red Sox recover from imploding? The Red Sox underwent a facelift to their bullpen, front office and clubhouse. Bobbie Valentine takes over as head coach and assistant GM Ben Cherington replaces Theo Epstein as General
Manager. Cherington quickly moved to find bullpen help, acquiring pitcher Mark Melancon from the Houston Astros and closer Andrew Bailey, as well as RF Ryan Sweeney from the Oakland A’s. They also signed OF Cody Ross, UT Nick Punto, and moved reliever Daniel Bard to the rotation to replace the injured John Lackey, who will miss the 2012 season following Tommy John Surgery. What can Theo Epstein do with the Cubs? Theo solved one problem for the Cubs, shipping troubled pitcher Carlos Zambrano to Miami for pitcher Chris Volstad. Aside from the signing of pitchers Paul Maholm and Kerry Wood, outfielder David DeJesus and acquiring third baseman Ian Stewart, the Cubs have been relatively quiet this offseason. Theo’s plan apparent is to “let the kids play”, and try to develop within. However, many expected the Cubs to make a splash in free agency this year and potentially return to being a force in the NL Central.
helpsaveearth.org
The beloved wood bats of Major league baseball.
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vol. 50, no. 4 / Feb. 6, 2012
New coach, new season
USA Baseball starting season with new coaches, new players and a new season
Jayson curry/ sports editor
USA head baseball coach Mark Calvi
J.T. Crabtree Sports Reporter A new season of South Alabama baseball starts on Feb. 17, but it also marks the beginning of a new era in the program’s history. The season opener will be the first game with Mark Calvi as head coach, and the first game since 1984 that the Jags will not be managed by Steve Kittrell, who retired after last season. Calvi brings in an impressive resume, including a NCAA National Championship with South Carolina in 2010, where he served as pitching coach. This past week, Coach Calvi sat with us to discuss the upcoming season, praising the team’s hard work and character as ways that the team will be successful.
VG: Who has been the most impressive this offseason? Coach Calvi: “Logan Kirkland has had a good fall, Whit Dorsey swings the bat very well, Jordan Patterson has done well and he pitches as well. Freshman Colin Bray has had an outstanding fall. He will battle for time in center field. “ VG: How much moving guys in and out the first two or three weeks do you feel comfortable with? Coach Calvi: “There will definitely be some lineup changes once the season starts. I have a pretty good idea of how it will shape up. I will be shifting guys in and out until someone shows he can handle that spot. We have spots that are up for grabs but in the way of depth. It’s a good problem to have. We could have an AllAmerican on the bench one day and bring another player in and not miss a beat. “ VG: How are the new players playing so far? Coach Calvi: “So far, so good. We just got back to work, and it seems that everyone did what they needed to do over the break, and they look ready to go. ” VG: Are there any injuries to be concerned about? Coach Calvi: “Collin Blankenship had surgery to remove bone chips in his elbow
back in the fall. He is closing in on being 100 percent. Chris Doyle had shoulder surgery in JUCO last year, sat out the fall and was throwing on the mound and throwing really well. Over the break he fell and fractured his thumb, so that set him back a month. He was close to being back, he was about 80, 85 percent healthy. If nothing else, it gives him more rest, but he was throwing very well. Dillon Buhrkuhl had Tommy John surgery last January in JUCO and [Feb. 27] was his first day pitching on the mound since then, his first time facing live hitters. Believe it or not, he is only 8590 percent ready to go. Getting him, Doyle and Blankenship back will give us a shot in the arm. ” VG: What kind of image are you trying to establish as you start a new era in Jag baseball? Coach Calvi: “What I did in recruiting was modeled after what I did in South Carolina; I was looking for the best players available but some may have not had the best makeup. They had academic problems or off the field issues, but they throw 92 mph, and I passed on them. I went after the guys who had the best make up and character that I could find. It’s an image of doing great things in the classroom, on the field, in the community. A team that busts
it hard at all times regardless of what the scoreboard says. A team that plays hard and you’ll enjoy watching. It’ll be a team you will be proud to watch. ” Coach Calvi also talked about involving the fans more into the baseball atmosphere, wanting to create “more of a home field advantage”. Calvi encouraged fans to turn out more for games, explaining that “fans can help the team simply by being here. Being there, being loud, being rowdy. It really does help the team play better”. The fan experience will also be enhanced with the addition of a new multilevel party deck in right-center field that will be known as “Jag Alley”, where fans can grill during games and enjoy watching from the outfield. Coach Calvi has a tough task of bringing an almost entirely new team and transforming them into winners right away. While talent is aplenty, the main concern is avoiding in-season injuries. With a healthy lineup and rotation, the Jags should be able to compete for a Sun Belt title. The Jags season opener is at home on Friday, Feb. 17 at 6:30 p.m. They will host no. 31 ranked College of Charleston for a three-game weekend series.
Jayson curry/ sports editor
USA first baseman Jordan Patterson.
Jayson curry/ sports editor
USA catcher Brent Mitchell takes a look at a piitch during practice.
Jayson curry/ sports editor
USA pitcher Jarron Cito on the mound.
vOl. 50, NO. 4 / Feb. 6, 2012
DISTRACTIONS
Picture of the week
Hey guys, I found it!
Matt Weaver/Sr. Reporter
Weekly Quotable Quote Some luck lies in not getting what you thought you wanted but getting what you have, which once you have got it you may be smart enough to see is what you would have wanted had you known. ~Garrison Keillor
Student health Sudoku For Student Health appointments, please call 460-7151 For Counseling and Testing, please call 460-7051
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vol. 50, no. 4 / Feb. 6, 2012
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