August 15, 2011 | Vol. 49 No. 3
“If It Matters To the USA Family, It Matters To Us.”
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coNtRiButiNG PhotoGRaPheR PatRicK BiGBie
Campus Death Update By Cassie Fambro Editor-in-Chief
Brandon Aijadeh, suspected of stabbing James Franklin Dean 25 times with a butcher knife on July 10, was reportedly distraught after an rejection on Facebook and a soured friendship. Aijadeh, Dean, and two friends were together in the Delta 6 dorm room the night of Dean’s death. Aijadeh’s Twitter account showed posts about one of the other men present, Kennan Henderson, a fellow student of Dean and Aijadeh at Murphy High School. Aijadeh felt that Henderson had betrayed him and was reportedly jealous of the friendship between Dean and Henderson. Henderson deleted Aijadeh from his Facebook “friend” list, according to the testimony of USAPD Officer Phil Fishel, which allegedly emotionally upset Aijadeh. Henderson and his friend allegedly left the dorm, leaving Aijadeh and Dean alone before Dean’s death. Aijadeh has given conflicting stories of the events of that night, including citing self-defense, implying that Dean had made unwanted sexual advances toward him. Officer Fishel stated that investigators discovered blood-covered walls and obvious bloody handprints in the Delta 6 room of Dean’s death. Officer Fishel also confirmed the bloody fingerprints were a positive match to Aijadeh. Dean, a non-USA student, had reportedly been living with Aijadeh for 3 months, according to reports. USA Housing does not permit nonstudents to reside in campus dorms and was unaware of Dean’s living arrangements with Aijadeh. Stay tuned to our website for breaking news blog updates.
WEEKLY INSIDER
Assistant Professor of Geology Dr. Jim Connors assists two student volunteers in assembling the bicycles where the bookstore was temporarily located during renovations
COURTESY OF USA PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICE
JagBikes: A New Way to Roll at USA
500 University-Sponsored Bicycles Roll Out for Student Use as Part of the USA JagSmart Initiative By Cassie Fambro Editor-In-Chief
This fall, be prepared to see an influx of shiny, blue bicycles around campus. The USA Geology Club and the Student Sustainability Council, both led by adviser Dr. Jim Connors, Assistant Professor of Earth Sciences, assembled 400 new “Jag Bikes” with the help of members from the the Honors Program Organization and Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity.
It took a couple weeks of grueling days and hard labor, but the end result is a new way for students to commute around campus. Dr. Connors told The Vanguard that the initiative is a “bold experiment in community-level sustainability.” Primarily, USA students volunteered to help assemble the bikes. The bicycles, partially funded by private donations, are part of the University’s new sustainability initiative “JagSmart,” a program integrating the
latest green principles in recycling, energy conservation, transportation, campus construction and campus life. The JagSmart committee is headed by University of South Alabama President Gordon Moulton, and the Chair of the committee is Sociology Assistant Professor Dr. Doug Marshall. Dr. Connors also serves on the committee along with Director of Facilities Chris Willis, Associate Director of Housing James Bridgeforth, see JagBikes, page 24
Summer SGA Allegations By Matt Weaver Senior Reporter The University of South Alabama SGA motioned to undergo impeachment charges against Attorney General JeanPierre Arditi late last month after abuse of power assessments were brought forth by Senator Riley Davis of the College of Engineering. The charges were presented to the Senate at the July 25th meeting, where the group voted to further review the information. The charges imply that Arditi improperly
used his office to waive parking tickets for friends, directly bypassing and overriding the authority of Chief Justice Coleman Wolf. “I’m turning these charges over to the Student Government Supreme Court for review and see if there is enough evidence for a trial,” Davis said. “[Arditi’s] actions not only make the SGA look bad but they also do not represent what student government stands for.” Arditi, a junior from Mobile, claims that he has the authority to waive parking tickets under the Lowdown and that the Attorney General’s role is open to
see SGA, page 24
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Football Ready See Sports, p. 25
More on Jagsmart’s JagBikes: p. 24 Opinion: What’s the deal with parking? p. 22 |
Life: Tips on where to study: hint:, tree chair p. 10 |
Sports: One track member’s sacrafice p. 26
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Vanguard The
NEWS
PoliceBlotter Spotlight Have a question for USAPD? Ask us, and we will ask them. E-mail your questions to editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com.
What is USAPD’s V.I.P.E.R. Project ? “Violence Intervention, Prevention, Education and Response” 1. Jealousy: At the beginning of a relationship, an abuser will always say that jealousy is a sign of love. Jealousy has nothing to do with love - it’s a sign of insecurity and possessiveness. They will question the victim about who they talk to, accuse them of flirting, or be jealous of time they spend with family, friends or children. As the jealousy progresses, the abuser may call the victim frequently during the day or drop by unexpectedly. He may refuse to let her work for fear she’ll meet someone else, even have strange behaviors, such as, checking her car mileage or asking friends to watch her. 2. Controlling Behavior: At first, the batterer will say that this behavior is because he is concerned for the victim’s safety, her need to use her time well, or her need to make good decisions. He will be angry if the victim is “late” coming back from the store or an appointment. He will question her closely about where she went, who she talked to. As this behavior gets worse, he may not let the victim make personal decisions about the house, her clothing, going to church. He may keep all the money or even make her ask permission to the house or room. 3. Quick Involvement: Many battered women dated or knew their abuser for less than six months before they were engaged of living together. He comes on like a whirlwind - “You’re the only person I could ever talk to”, “I’ve never felt loved like this by anyone”. He needs someone desperately, and will pressure the woman to commit to him. 4. Unrealistic Expectations: He is very dependent on the woman for all his needs. He expects her to be the perfect wife, mother, lover, friend. He will say things like, “If you love me, I’m all you need-you’re all I need.” She is supposed to take care of everything for him emotionally and in the home. 5. Isolation: The abuser tries to cut the victim off from all resources. If she has male friends, she is a “whore”. If she has female friends, she is a lesbian. If she is close to family, she is “tied to the apron strings”. He accuses people who are her support of “causing trouble”. He may want to live in the country without a telephone. He may not let her use the car, or he may want to keep her from working or going to school. 6. Blames Others For His Problems: If he is chronically unemployed, someone is always doing him wrong, out to get him. He may make mistakes and then blame the woman for upsetting him and keeping him from concentrating on doing his job. He will tell the woman she is at fault for almost anything that goes wrong. 7. Blames Others For His Feelings: He will tell the victim, “You’ve made me mad;””You’re hurting me by not doing what I ask;””I can’t help being angry.” He really makes the decision about what he thinks and feels, but will use feelings to manipulate the woman. Harder to catch are his claims that, “You make me happy;””You control how I feel”. 8. Hypersensitivity: The abuser is easily insulted. He claims his feelings are “Hurt” when he’s angry, or he takes the slightest setbacks as personal attacks. He will “rant & rave” about the number of things that have happened to him - things that are really just part of living like being asked to work overtime, getting a traffic ticket, being told something he does is annoying, being asked to help with the chores.
9. Cruelty To Animals Or Children: This is a person who punishes animals brutally or is insensitive to their pain or suffering. He may expect children to be capable of doing things far beyond their ability (Whips a 2 year old for wetting a diaper) or may tease children or young brothers and sisters until they cry (60% of men who abuse women that they are with also abuse their children). He may not want children to eat at the table or expects them to stay in their room all evening while he is home. 10. “Playful” Use Of Force In Sex: This person may like to throw the other down or hold them down during sex. He may want to act out fantasies during sex where the woman is helpless. He’s letting her know that the idea of “rape” excites him. He may show little concern about whether the woman wants to have sex and uses sulking or anger to manipulate her into compliance. 11. Verbal Abuse: In addition to saying things that are meant to be cruel and hurtful, this can be seen as degrading the victim, cursing her, downing any of her accomplishments. The man will tell her that she’s stupid and unable to function without him. This may involve waking her up to verbally abuse her or not letting her sleep. 12. Rigid Sex Roles: The man expects a woman to serve him. He will say she must stay at home, that she must obey him in all things - even things that are criminal in nature. The abuser will see a woman as inferior to men, more stupid, unable to be a whole person without a relationship. 13. Dr. Jeckyl & Mr. Hyde: Many women are confused by their abuser’s “sudden” changes in mood. They will describe him as nice one minute and the next, he explodes; some special “mental problem” or he’s “crazy”. Explosiveness and mood swings are typical of men who beat their partners, and these behaviors are related to other characteristics such as hypersensitivity. 14. Past Battering: The man may say he has hit women in the past, but they made him do it. The woman may hear from relatives or ex-spouses that the man is abusive. A batterer will abuse any woman he is with, situational circumstances do not make a person an abusive personality. 15. Threats Of Violence: This would include any threat of physical force meant to control the woman. “I’ll slap your mouth off”, “I’ll kill you”, “I’ll break your neck”. Most men do not threaten their mates, but a batterer will try to excuse this behavior by saying “Everybody talks like that”. 16. Breaking Or Striking Objects: This behavior is used as a punishment (breaking loved possessions) but is mostly used to terrorize the victim into submission. The man may beat on tables with his fist, throw objects around or near the woman. Again, this is very remarkable behavior. Only very immature people beat on objects in the presence of other people in order to threaten them. 17. Any Force During An Argument: This may involve a man holding a woman down, physically restraining her from leaving the room, any pushing or shoving. The man may hold the woman against a wall and say “You’re going to listen to me”. If you are a victim of domestic violence, please contact the University Police Department at (251) 460-6312 or call Sgt. Phil Fishel at (251) 460-6979. You can remain confidential. Courtesy of southalabama.edu/police.
University of South Alabama’s Student Voice 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: editor.in.chief@usavangaurd.com or The Vanguard, University of South Alabama, P.O. Drawer U-1057, 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. 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 Editorin-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 251460-6442 or e-mail editor..in.chief@ usavangaurd.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 offcampus locations. The first copy is free. Additional copies are $1 each.
EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief: Cassie Fambro Associate Editor: Genny Roman Copy Editor: Carey Cox Life Editor: Bailey Hammond Opinion Editor: Imran Mohiuddin Sports Editor: Jayson Curry Web-Editor: Nick Griffith DISTRIBUTION Distribution Manager: Johnny Davis ADVERTISING STAFF Advertising Manager: Wesley Jackson Graphic Designer: Brittany Hawkins MANAGEMENT Adviser: James Aucoin Accounting: Kathy Brannan
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News In Brief New Baldwin Campus Director Named
USA Honor Student wins Mortar Board Fellowship
Dr. Cindy Wilson Named USA Baldwin County Campus Director
Kaila Mattson is the 2011 recipient of the Mortar Board Fellowship, a $5,000 award.
Dr. Cindy Wilson has been appointed Director of the University of South Alabama in Baldwin County. Wilson assumed this role on July 1, 2011. Wilson was serving as the Interim Director for the USABC Campus when she received the appointment. Wilson succeeds Dr. Phillip Norris, who retired from the position in November 2010. Before serving as the Interim Director for the campus, Wilson served as the Assistant Director, Associate Director, and part-time faculty member at USABC for 18 years. Her experience also includes 9 years at the University of Alabama where she was a counselor and part-time faculty member.
Nature’s Treasures and Potpourri presented by Vicky Nix Cook and Ricky Trione University of South Alabama Library Third Floor Gallery July 1, 2011 - September 3, 2011 Over the past six years, Cook and Trione have teamed up on many collaborative art works to donate for very worthy causes. Now, they are teaming up to share their passion for art in their upcoming show, Nature’s Treasures and Potpourri, which will be on exhibit at the University of South Alabama Library, third floor gallery, July 1, 2011 - September 3, 2011.
Kaila graduated in May from the University of South Alabama in Mobile, earning a B.S. in chemistry with a minor in business. In the fall, she will attend the University of California, Santa Barbara to pursue a Ph.D. in chemistry. Kaila is a 2007 graduate of Arrowhead High School and is the daughter of Gary and Sharon Mattson of Hartland, Wis. Initiated into Mortar Board in 2009, Kaila was elected historian of the Azalea chapter and attended the 2009 Mortar Board National Conference in Chicago.
USA Locals Involved in Art Walk For the upcoming Art Walk on September 2, 2011, 6:00p.m. to 8:00p.m., USABC will be featuring the photography show, In the Company of Giants, by Jeff and Meggan Haller. The couple started Keyhole Photo in Mobile, Alabama, with more than 15 years of professional photography experience working as staff photographers at daily newspapers. Currently, Jeff teaches a photojournalism class, and “Communication and the Internet” at USA in the Communication Department of the College of Arts and Sciences. News-in-Brief worthy material can be sent to editor.in.chief@ usavanguard.com, preferably a week in advance of an issue.
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USA Honors Program Names New Director but recently he had the chance to compete against other possible candidates when the Director position became available. The previous Director of the Honors Program, Dr. Bob Coleman, gave up the position after being named the Assistant Dean of Arts and Sciences at the end of the Spring semester. His departure left many wondering who would step into his place. USA Senior in Meteorology and Honors Program Organization President, Sid King, told The Vanguard that, “The selection process was very intense, with each of the four candidates showing great potential and strengths.” The interviews consisted of hourlong presentations in front of an audience of peers and students, with each candidate presenting his background, experience and ideas for the Honors Program in a selection of ways.
“It was interesting to see each candidate’s perspective on the Honors Program at South and at other institutions,” reflected Sandra Huynh, Honors student. Huynh attended several of the interviews and expressed hope that
“I have the upmost faith that he will continue to help build our Honors family...” -HPO President Sid King
Faculty/Staff File Photo
Michael Doran is the new Honor’s Proram Director
By Bailey Hammond Life Editor
Effective August 15, USA’s Honors Program will be under the directorship of Dr. Michael Doran. Dr. Doran has served previously as Assistant Director of the program,
Dr. Doran’s appointment to Director will lead to some great changes for faculty and students. Sid King further commented on the decision saying. “I met Dr. Doran three years ago, when he was appointed Assistant Director of the Honors Program, at which point we immediately began to discuss service projects and our long-term future.”
“He is genuinely passionate about our program and the ideals or which it stands. I have upmost faith that he will continue to help us build our Honors family and work with us to bring our work out to the rest of the university and our community,” remarked King. Dr. Doran has been a Professor of Computer Sciences here at USA since 1988. He has been published in numerous scholarly journals in the fields of computer science and mechanical engineering, and has worked on the groundbreaking University of South Alabama JagBot project. He served and continues to serve on a number of committees and clubs at USA, and is an active member of the Knights of Columbus as well as being a dedicated family man.
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Weekly Lowdown Monday, August 15 Financial Aid Bookstore charges begin
Tuesday, August 16 Residence Hall check-in for new students participating in Orientation 9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Wednesday-Friday, August 17-19 Residence Hall check-in for returning students 9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Saturday, August 20 Residence Hall check-in for new and returning students who registered early summer 9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Jagfest 4:00 p.m. at the Mitchell Center “Chill Around the Grill” 7:00 p.m - 10:00 p.m. SGA Pavilion “Show off your Greek talent!” Want your event featured? E-mail the name, date, time, price, place and a brief tagline (under seven words) to life.editor@usavanguard.com. Include “Weekly Lowdown” in the subject line. E-mails must be received at least seven days before the event.
college 101: Quick Tips
Bailey Hammond
1. Be on time to class, perhaps even a little bit early. 2. If you’re going to take a JagTran, leave a bit early. Walking is good for you so don’t be afraid to hoof it. Also, you could use one of Staff Photo those nifty bikes While we don’t get the administration has to hop aboard the provided for us. Hogwarts Express, 3. Carry an umbrella USA students do have at all times. Don’t carry many transportation one at your own risk. options. Read on 4. If you’re worried to discover what is about your karma, learn to recycle. Mothavailable. er Nature will thank you. 5. Ask questions in class, and be sure to get the e-mails or numbers of those sitting near you. You might need their notes or help at some point. 6. Don’t feed the squirrels. They’re evil. 7. Join a club or organization and make some friends in the process. There are tons of clubs, and there’s bound to be one that fits your interests. 8. When studying, it’s best if you go somewhere isolated. That way if you have a nervous breakdown, no one will be there to witness it and you won’t be branded a freak. 9.If you really like coffee, invest in a coffee maker. Bonus bucks only last so long when you drink a White Chocolate mocha every day. 10. Look both ways when crossing the street. You’d be surprised how many fail to do that and almost get pancaked by cars. Or JagTrans. Do these things, and your first year of college is guaranteed* to be safe, happy and worth remembering next year. *The author realizes that in no way can she guarantee anything with any degree of accuracy, seeing as she does not currently possess a psychic ability. Don’t worry. She’s working on that.
Bailey Hammond Life Editor
well and has developed a few useful strategies for maintaining that slippery grip on sanity. 1. Use a calendar. It doesn’t matter if you buy an agenda, print out a basic
Bailey Hammond, Life Editor life.editor@usavanguard.com
SI: Tools for Success
Life Editor
Easy Street Strategems It’s easy to be busy, but it’s hard to be effective while running around like a chicken with its head cut off. Here are a few tips from someone who knows busy very
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calendar, or use Google Calendar to properly align your schedule. It just matters that you keep things orderly so you won’t be wondering late at night if that
5-page paper is due the next day or next week. 2. Turn in assignments on time. It may seem like everything is due at the same time, and often it is, see Strategems page 31
Chart courtesy of Dr. Carr
Supplemental Instruction (SI) can help students who are struggling in different areas of study in the Arts and Sciences as compared to those who do not seek help.
By Jake Howell Contributing Writer
Those new to the University of South Alabama’s campus (or college in general) tend to be bombarded with the unique changes that this chapter of life brings. USA, though, offers its students an incredibly useful tool for ensuring success. Supplemental Instruction (SI) is offered for classes that are considered “historically difficult,” meaning that they have a higher rate of D’s, F’s and withdrawals than others. Most of the classes offering SI are introductory-level and part of the general education requirements such as General Biology or General Chemistry. Each week during the semester, SI Leaders hold SI sessions where students go to ask questions, learn new study skills, prepare for upcoming exams, gain a better understanding of the material or just listen and learn from what their classmates might be struggling with. SI Leaders are students who have taken the class for which SI is offered, done well, and are able to
help others understand the material. Normally students view the SI leaders as less intimidating than professors (let’s face it, some professors are rather frightening), making it much easier for them to get their questions answered. One thing to note about the SI program is that it isn’t tutoring or only for those having trouble. Records show that students who attend SI sessions regularly earn higher grades than their classmates who don’t attend (see bar graph.) The SI program’s record speaks for itself. The program, started at the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 1973, is a handy weapon for new students, or continuing students, to have in their arsenal to conquer academia. What’s the best part about the program, though? It’s completely free. Any questions about SI can be sent to Dr. Nicole Carr at ntcarr@ jaguar1.usouthal.edu. There are also resources available at southalabama.edu/academicsuccess/ supplemental.
10 New Author’s Message to USA Students The
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A few months after graduation, I found myself working as an overnight news editor (I was the guy who cut together the video to go along with the anchor’s Paul Jury story about Special Contributor Puppy Sweaters) with a weekend gig as Paul is the author of a bouncer at a “States of Confusion,” local bar. about a misadventureI joked filled direction-finding road trip to 48 states. with a fellow bouncer (who day-lighted as a mortician) that we’d found the only three industries immune from
economic downturn: news, booze, and death. This was not the career path I’d imagined, of course, but a combination of a cloudy economy and a cloudier idea about my direction had left me frustrated and depressed that everything I’d worked for after college wasn’t just being handed to me on a silver platter. And then one day something clicked over in my brain. If I didn’t know yet what my career was, I thought, I should at least do something I’d never be able to once I had a career. Something ridiculous. And so I set off in my parents’ old beater van to drive to all 48 contiguous United States. The trip wasn’t easy. I often had to get outside myself and do things I wasn’t comfortable with.
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ated (or soon to graduate) and I became very lonely at times, facing the same uncertainty: take and felt guilty about turning my heart. back on everything I was “supIf you think you know your path, posed” to do. And then there were the middle- go after it; don’t let fear and uncertainty stand in your way. of-nowhere breakdowns, tornaBut if you – dos, and at least “If you think you know your like me – find one swim in a snake-filled river path, go after it; don’t let yourself starinto the in search of lost fear and uncertainty stand in ing foggy distance, car keys. your way.” unsure of what But I learned do next…go a ton – about do something myself, about -Paul Jury else. Somedirection, about thing ridicuwhere not to aclous. cidentally sleep in one’s car if you There will be time for your don’t want to get arrested (daycareer – in fact, you’re going to care centers are a big one). spend most of your life doing it. And sure enough, everything Maybe now’s the time for a deeventually worked itself out. Just tour. as they will for you. To those of you recently gradu-
Nail Clippings and Other Rooming Issues If you’re anything like me, you’re probably getting ready to move in on campus. Whether you’re a first timer or a veteran of dorm living, you’re done derping around and have a thorough checklist made out of all the Genny Roman essentials. Associate Editor If you have a roommate, maybe you’ve even contacted them beforehand to see who will bring what. That first contact with your pending roommate or roommates is the first opportunity you have to make a good impression, and it’s theirs as well. If you haven’t taken the opportunity to reach out, do it. Knowledge is power, and knowing how willing your roommate is to talk and be cordial will foreshadow either a painful living
experience or a relatively awesome one. Don’t be shy; the worst that could happen is you never end up talking to them and they make your life miserable. Talking is not the worst thing you could do, seriously. Once you’ve contacted your roomies, met up, and things seem to be going well enough, lay down ground rules. This is not the time to be all “whatevs” about your living situation. Practice being assertive and diplomatic: ask your roommate if they have any expectations coming from you, and let them know you have some too. If you like to study in the early afternoon, let them know. If they don’t want people over during certain hours, ask them. Who’s going to clean what? Is anyone even going to clean? Are you both hopeless slobs? You need to know! The time frame for setting ground rules should be the first two weeks. This is enough time to pinpoint any habits the other person has or you have that
might need some adjusting. but the other person isn’t, then consider If you plan on living with multiple people moving out during the period of time over four years, on or off campus, knowing where moving is actually an option. your weaknesses and what to Somespot in others will only help times living you out when it comes to with roomcommunicating. mates is trial and Be flexible and get ready error. to compromise some of your It took more disturbing habits. me two Clipping nails over the sink years to and not cleaning up afterfigure out wards might need to take a that I’m backseat to living harmonijust better ously with someone else. Staff Photo having a What you’re trying to avoid space to mywith these exercises in adult You should reach out to your roommate. self. behavior are cute little surI don’t regret the experience, though, prises that will distract you from what you came to college for: getting a well-rounded because it was steeped in the murky reality that other people are different from me. education. You have to learn how to deal at some Take the extra step to be up front about what you expect and hopefully you’ll be re- point and you’ll be a better person for it. Maybe you can live with others, maybe you ceived with respect and maturity. If those are things you’re willing to give can’t. There’s only one way to find out.
Best Study Spots
A nice table to sit and enjoy the view while study- Staff Photo ing, ensconced between the Humanities Building and the Library.
1. Library treechair 2. Floor 2 1/2 at the Humanities Building 3. Java City 4. The comfort of your own dorm (alone of course) 5. Starbucks or other local coffee shops Satori and Carpe Diem 6. Secluded table outside somewhere 7. Under a tree (It should be common knowledge not to do 6 and 7 while the sky is falling.)
Staff Photo
The famed “tree chair.” Located between the Library and the Life Sciences Building, this iconic fixture is a throne for those who like to do their sitting alone.
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Campus Parking: Simplified by the Facts
By Matt Weaver Senior Reporter Returning students discovered a new parking permit procedure upon returning to campus in the fall as the University adopted an online registration system to facilitate parking demands. Beginning on July 19th, students were able to use their PAWS account to access the parking services website and select their preferred permit. Students are given four options: North, South, East and Central. The North zone covers parking along the Humanities buildings and the main library. The South zone ranges from the Computer Science buildings to the UCOM parking along University Blvd. The East zone covers the parking lot near the College of Medicine and ILB, while the Central parking zone encompasses the heart of the campus between the humanities buildings and Mitchell Center. Student parking spaces are designated white lined spaces. Students are allowed only one permit and on-campus residents will be assigned Resident zone parking tags.
An exception is Gamma Hall residents, who received Gamma specific parking tags. Enforcement of zoned parking is Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Blue-lined faculty spaces may be used by students after 5 p.m., meaning students can park anywhere on campus after 5 p.m. every day. Additionally, the Mitchell Center parking lot is open for all students on days in which there are no events scheduled for the facility. Many students and visitors disregard the rules by
illegally parking. Inclement weather or lack of spots is not a valid excuse for parking in incorrect areas. Parking services advise arriving to school early and using Jagbikes and JagTran to move around campus. Parking violations will result in fines and loss of school parking permissions. The most common violation is parking outside of your designated area, which will cost the wrongdoer $20. Students must also make sure to display their permits clearly on their rear-view mirror or dashboard or they risk incurring a $15 fine. The largest fine, $100, is administered to any student or visitor who illegally parks in a handicapped parking space. Students who feel they have been wrongly ticketed may make a written appeal to the Office of Student Affairs. This can be done via the parking Services website and must be done within 14 days of the ticketing. Appeals must include legitimate excuses to be cleared from a student’s record. As before, faculty and staff permits can be purchased from the office of student accounting or by calling 251460-6195. The Parking Services website can be reached online at “http://www.southalabama. edu/parkingservices/�
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Opinion
Imran Mohiuddin, Opinion Editor opinion.editor@usavanguard.com
www.usavanguard.com/opinion
OUR VIEW EDITORIAL BOARD >>editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com
STAFF EDITORIAL Cassie Fambro | Editor-in-Chief Genny Roman | Associate Editor Imran Mohiuddin | Opinion Editor
Matt Weaver | Senior Reporter Bailey Hammond | Life Editor Jayson Curry | Sports Editor
Put your best pedal forward JagSmart has unveiled JagBikes, and some may feel trepedatious about the security of the bikes. From wondering if all the bikes will get stolen or if traffic won’t yeild to cyclists, there are various issues with the concept of a “bike-and-ride” program. Really, it’s an opportunity to change the culture of the University of South Alabama. It has long been said that many USA students would drive to the bathroom down the hall if they could. It’s inherently acceptable to drive from one building to another, even if it would be quicker to walk. One of the main complaints on campus is the parking situation. Everyone wants to be closest to their destination, too. JagBikes gives students a unique opportunity to save their gas, get some exercise, and do the world a little good. It will take a collective effort to change the culture to biking, walking and riding the JagTran, but it’s
possible. In reality, it’s often quicker to walk than to drive or even ride the JagTran. Bikes are even faster. Not only are you saving money, you’re saving time. The bikes are provided to students at no cost to them, which is a rarity among universities with similar programs. Maintenance will be offered, and safety information is available also. If you are driving, make an effort to respect cyclists, and cyclists, be aware of drivers. Mutual courtesy and respect will breed a peaceful existence instead of motorist-contempt. Bikers should also be careful when riding on sidewalks, and respect walkers. common courtesy will truly go a long way to fostering long-term cultural change at USA. Give it a chance, hop on one of the free bikes and see if it’s for you. You may even feel like a kid again. Pick up a Jagbike, USA.
No, Alanis, it’s actually not ironic By Alex Whalen Vanguard Veteran So you’ve just finished waxing and polishing your car when a torrential downpour undoes all your hard work. You decide to just laugh away the irony when some mouth breathing know-it-all corrects you. “That’s not irony,” he says, “it’s just a series of unfortunate circumstances.” He’s right, of course. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t punch him in the middle of the face. This flawed understanding of “irony” is a pervasive feature of our culture – and it’s one that’s not likely to end soon. So I suggest we just give up; I think the dictionary, for once, is wrong. Just to be clear, the dictionary definition of irony suggests that it is either a) language with a meaning that’s the opposite of it’s literal meaning, or b) circumstances with an outcome that’s the opposite of what is naturally expected. The first definition sounds an awful
lot like sarcasm, which is one of my favorite things in the world and already has its own word. I’m not sure what to make of the second definition; maybe a firefighter rushing to a burning building only to pull out a can of gasoline. Really, there’s just a total breakdown at this point. I hesitate to call anything ironic for fear of being corrected (which I hate), meanwhile there are plenty of hilarious things that I’d love to call ironic but can’t (which I hate even more). And think of poor Alanis Morissette who sang that entire song about ironic things that weren’t, in fact, ironic. “It’s like 10,000 spoons when all you need is a knife.” No, Alanis, it’s not like that at all. But let’s think about this for just a second. What makes more sense, that an entire culture is wrong about the meaning of a word or that the stupid dictionary is wrong? To see why the dictionary is wrong, just think about the purpose of a dictionary. Sure, it’s great for propping up the short end of a
table and for dropping on your little brother, but the real purpose of the dictionary is to tell us how we use language. Notice I didn’t say how we ought to use language, that’s not what dictionaries do. They tell us how we use words as a matter of fact. Words have no inherent meaning other than what we decide to give them. Just look at what Facebook has done to some of our most common words. I have “friends” that I’m not sure who they even are, and to “like” something just means to click a button so that you can profess your “liking” to your “friends.” Language is fluid and words change meaning over time. If someone looks really happy, I wouldn’t dare tell them that they’re looking super gay because it’s not the early 1900’s and I would get my butt kicked. It’s the role of a dictionary to tell us how words have been and continue to be used. The definitions are based on what a particular word
see IRONIC, page 31
Who is your favorite professor on campus? Why? “Dr. Lowe is hands down the hardest first year english teacher, but he was definitely my favorite teacher. He made me feel like such a complete moron in his class, but it was comforting to know that every other student felt the same exact way. I was forced to use my critical thinking skills (pun intended, you’ll see) in his class and it definitely paid off!” Michael Brown Meteorology Sophmore “I have favorites for each subject, but because I took her three times I guess you could say I enjoyed her class! She taught Introductory French I, and I loved her so much I signed up for French II as well as Accelerated Intermediate French. Dr. Susan McCready is sweet and charismatic and always willing to help. Although I’m not continuing in foreign languages, Dr. McCready has sparked a passion for the French language that will stay with me forever.” Sandra Huynh Biology Junior “My favorite teacher was Dr. David Battiste since he was fair with his curriculum and grading. He also seemed very set on getting his students engaged in class and genuinely tried to help his students improve their grades. And, if you ever need extra help in his class, he’s more than willing to help students during office hours.” Justin Jong BMD Sophmore “My favorite professor was Mrs. Patty Davis who teaches chemistry lab. She’s a very fun, enthusiastic professor who loves to help students do well if they’re willing to put in effort. She explains everything very clearly so lab write-ups are a piece of cake, and she loves to joke around which makes standing through lab not as bad.” Surabhi Vinod BMD Sophmore “I would consider Carol Case to be my favorite professor thus far. She’s not my favorite simply because of her infusion of humor in the classroom, her delightful personality, or how willing she was to help. She did more then teach me how to write. It’s because she’s the only teacher I’ve ever had who really gave a damn.” Matthew Holmes Philosophy Sophmore
August 15, 2011
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POINT Counterpoint
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Editor’s Introduction: The University of South Alabama dents to live on campus, few changes have been made to the
has grown dramatically in recent years and this shows no signs parking system, leading some to believe that a complete overof stopping. However, while USA is actively recruiting more stu- haul is necessary for the university to continue growing. The Point/Counterpoint explains.
A change in parking is vital As admission rates into fit in lunch, especially when crease dramatically at the considering the time required University of South Alabama, for commuting and waiting in access spots and parking line. spaces are becoming more This problem is made scarce with each passing worse by the fact that The year. Market will no longer be open As an employee at the in the fall, Student Recreation Center, removing I see examples of this every one of the day. Usually students who only centralAj come to the Recreation Cenized eating Obiako ter in the evenings have diflocations on ficulty finding places to park. Consecampus. quently, these unfortunate students The addition of and members are forced to settle for the new Recreation parking in faraway residential areas. Center, College of Likewise, on school days, students Engineering and who have central parking zone decafeteria show that cals find it nearly impossible to make the University is it to their morning classes on time trying to appeal to due to a combination of excess traffic outside students. and interference from the wholly inef- This leaves more ficient Jagtran system which, after students on campus factoring in all the stops, is often at any given time, slower than walking. and no new spaces to accommodate With each passing year, the the rising population. commuter aspect of our university diOur administration must respond minishes slightly, and the goal of the to this issue, and change the way university changes to accommodate they handle parking. The most plauresidential students. An example sible solution would be the addition of this residential eclipsing can be of a parking deck. seen by the administration’s decision With strategic placement of this to build the new cafeteria near the new parking zone coupled with the dorms. expansion of original parking zones, While students who live on cammany students will be able to stop pus find the new cafeteria’s location worrying about whether they’ll be very accessible during breakfast and able to find a parking spot, and indinner time, many students must restead focus on their classes. shuffle their class schedules in order
Imran Mohiuddin Opinion Editor
Pushing Boundaries
A plea from the desperate It’s easy to view the London rioters with marked disdain, mere thugs exploiting a critical situation for personal gain. However, like with most things, the situation isn’t as simple as it appears at first glance, and to dismiss the London rioters as irreverent, one dimensional brutes is to discount their concerns and their legitimate causes for anger.
For those unfamiliar with the situation, sections of London are now battlegrounds between youthful rioters and police, in a showdown that currently shows no signs of abating. The incident erupted following the death of Mark Duggan by the hands of police in the Tottenham district of London, and while not the first time an individual has died following an altercation with law enforcement officials, Duggan’s death has ignited a fire that courses through the veins of thousands of English youth. Now these young adults have taken to the streets, disillusioned and frustrated with a government that they see has marginalized them for the last time; a government that has done little to curb the problem with growing unemployment but has slashed the budgets of numerous social programs
Parking is not a problem As a commuter, I witness minute ride. For example, firsthand the troubles and while walking from ILB to anxieties of parking on the new cafeteria can take campus. However, it’s not approximately 30 minutes at a necessary to change the leisurely pace; biking the same whole zoning methodology distance will take roughly 10. the school uses. Students can park their The zones vehicles near the location of allow for their first class and quickly students to maneuver between buildings decide on a via their bicycles. Additionally, Lam parking area the university allows for all that would students to keep their bikes Pham maximize on campus providing that efficiency for them. they register and purchase decals For freshman and for them, removing the hassle of sophomores, most transporting bikes daily. classes are located Currently most of the griping in the within the Humanities, parking debate surrounds the new Chemistry and Life cafeteria. Sciences buildings. Only four designated spots for Parking in the North the cafeteria exist and are almost and Central zones always filled. The other spots nearby is not an issue if you are reserved for Residential/Greek come to school 20 parking. Unless someone has a to 30 minutes early residential tag, opting to drive to the Staff Photo during the first few new cafeteria will likely result in a morning class blocks. ticket. Even during the later class Still, the University doesn’t need to sessions, finding a parking spot is not radically change its policy to fix this usually an issue. The closer spots problem. Instead, a much simpler are usually taken, but there is never solution would be a nonstop Jagtran anything wrong with walking an extra that runs from the student center to 30 seconds to class. the cafeteria and back. Additionally, with the College of This simple change would eliminate Engineering and Computer Sciences the only legitimate parking complaint moving into the South parking zone, that students have now. The Central parking congestion will University does not need to revamp decrease dramatically. its parking policy because numerous If parking is still a substantial options already exist for students. hassle, students have the option Whether it be walking, taking the to invest in bikes and have them Jagtran, or biking, there is always an on campus to use. Biking can cut expedient way to get around campus. a 15 minute walk to a mere five
that benefit the indigent. It was Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who once said that “There is nothing more dangerous than to build a society with a large segment of people in that society who feel that they have no stake in it; who feel that that have nothing to lose. People who have stake in their society, protect that society, but when they don’t have it, they unconsciously want to destroy it.” Though he was speaking out against the unfair treatment of African Americans during the civil rights movement, Dr. King’s words have been proven time and time again during recent events. Despite what many people think, the London riots aren’t based on greed, laziness or a barefaced disdain for private property. Rather,when distilled, they are a
desperate cry for help from a demographic who feels that they are backed into a corner with no way out, a plead so emphatic that it now echoes across the globe. Instead of rounding up whomever they can prove guilty, and trying to decide who’s to blame for this bureaucratic fiasco, the English government should considering listening to these youths and try to redress their concerns. Otherwise, the London riots are likely to be the first of many that may eventually engulf England for years to come, as more youth rally to the charge and react with a clamor that won’t subside until their voices are finally heard.
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Cont. JagBikes
SGA Allegations from page 1
from page 1
Cassie Fambro. The addition of these freerange access bicycles is meant to support environmental sustainability and student convenience. Designated stations on campus will house the bicycles. Locations will make Jagbikes work well with JagTrans, so students can bike and then ride. A plan to make the University’s sidewalks compliant with Alabama’s laws for cyclists is underway as well. The plan involves bike safety additions such as proper sidewalk identification for bicyclists and pedestrians. The JagSmart committee encourages the university committee to be mindful of the increase in bicycle traffic and be cautious both as a cyclist and as a driver. Safetry information is located on each bike via a sticker near the handlebars. JagBikes are identified by barcodes unique to each bicycle, and all are outfitted with unique South Alabama decals. Each bike cost $55 and were
purchased from the bicycle manufactuer Huffy. Bikes will be available in conjunction with the beinning of the Fall semester, but on August 25, an event called “Jag Bike Roll-Out” will introduce the bicycles for campus-wide student use. The Jaguar Marching Band will particpiate and a ribbon-cutting ceremony by President Moulton will occur at the Moulton Tower. Students will select a Jag Bike for the inaugural ride along Mitchell Center Drive, located on the west side of the Mitchell Center. Mitchell Center Drive will be blocked off at USA South Drive and Old Shell Road at that time. The ride will end in the parking lot south of the Mitchell Center and free t-shirts will be given.
Courtesy Public Relations
Students Assemble JagBikes.
JagBikes Up Close
JagBike with Decals Affixed
interpretation. He also implied that the beneficiaries of the parking appeal were not friends but rather an acquaintance that made Arditi aware of her situation. Arditi apologized for the misunderstanding but insisted that he has the authority to approve traffic appeals. He cited Chapter 400 of the Lowdown, which reads that the Attorney General has the authority to work in conjunction with the Chief Justice and President on traffic appeals. Specifically, chapter 402.2 states that “all appeals will first be ruled upon by the Chief Justice or Attorney General.” “If [the Senate] feels I waived parking appeals for friends, that’s just not the case and I apologize for overriding Chief Justice Wolf,” Arditi said. “When this person approached me, she told me exactly what was going on. I feel my decision was not based on my knowing this person.” A motion of impeachment does not remove Arditi from office but rather sets up a trial to come at a future date. The Supreme Court will meet later this month and decide if there is enough evidence to continue with a proper trial. If there is sufficient evidence to continue the impeachment process, the Supreme Court will set the date of the trial and the Senate will hear the evidence and vote on a verdict. The Vice-President will be the preceding officer and a three-fourths vote will be necessary to declare him guilty of the charges. “I do have the right to appeal parking tickets alongside the Chief Justice but I should have resolved this differently,” Arditi said. “I formally apologize to everyone in the Senate and I hope [they] take that into consideration. “I have a plan for the SGA in terms of higher education and student advocacy; I would like to see it through to the end.”
Courtesy Public Relations
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Sports
Matt Weaver Sports Editor
jmatthewweaver@aol.com
August 15, 2011
Intramurals Offer Breaks From Everyday College Life
Myles Keeney Sports Columnist Mck801@jaguar1.usouthal.edu There’s no sense in denying it; between going to class everyday, studying for tests and doing homework every night, college life can become quite draining. That’s not even counting the fact that most students have to add working into their daily schedule. Because of the daily grind of college life, many of us forget to set aside time to relax, get exercise or even have a little fun for that matter. What if I told you there was a way for you to kill two of those birds with one stone? Well what better way to get out and get active than to enjoy South’s wide variety of Intramural Sports. Here at USA, students are given multiple options to choose from including Flag Football, Soccer, Basketball and even Inner tube Water polo. Students also have the opportunity to apply to be intramural referees. The sports are divided into two groups: A sports and B sports. Half of these sports are played in the fall and the other half in the spring. Fall sports include soccer, red-zone Flag football, flag football, inner tube water polo, sand volleyball, and dodgeball. Spring sports include basketball, shortman basketball (must be under 6 feet tall), softball, volleyball, indoor soccer, tennis and ultimate frisbee. The difference between A sports and B sports is simply that A sports are worth more points than B sports are. Therefore, the more sports you compete in, the more points your team earns. Whichever team earns the most points through the year is named All-U Champion. To keep the competition levels fair, the Intramurals are divided into five leagues: Men’s, Women’s, Fraternity, Sorority, and CoRec (teams of both men and women), with each league producing its own champion for each sport. USA intramurals will give you a break from the monotony of everyday college life, and it will give your mind a rest from all the studying/ cramming you’ve had to do to keep up with classes. Having over 10 sports to choose from and multiple leagues to play in, it only seems logical that there is something for almost anyone. There is a registration fee for each sport ranging from $10 to $25 per team. Registration deadlines for each sport can be found online at www.southalabama.edu/intramurals. Any other information you may need can be found online or at the intramural field house located in the center of the intramural fields. Whether you’re looking to play with a couple friends as an escape or you want to play with the best of the best to become a contender, intramurals are a fun, easy way to blow off a little steam and get some solid exercise. Besides, everyone likes a little friendly competition, right?
High Expectations for Senior Corner
Jayson Curry Sports Editor sports.editor@usavanguard.com As the South Alabama football team gears up for the 2011 season, there are many questions still being asked about the program. This is a given fact for any program in its third year of existence. One question that has already been answered is who the leaders on this year’s team are. If you have paid attention to the program over the past two seasons, you should know there are some players who have been around longer than others. One of these players is senior cornerback Anton Graphenreed. Graphenreed has played in 16 of 17 games in the past two seasons and has just a year left to truly leave his mark at USA. He is a leader on this year’s team not only because of his experience but because he has the skill and character to lead. And on a team that is in its infancy, leadership and character is what USA needs to continue success. “As teammates, we have all become brothers.” Graphenreed said. “We have all grown together and gotten better together.”
USAJaguars.com
.Senior Cornerback Anton Graphenreed
After proving all the doubters wrong the past two seasons, every player on the team, including Anton, is ready to prove their worth again. “We want to prove everyone wrong.” Graphenreed said. “As a senior and just being on the
team, I want to go out with a bang. “I remember being out on the intramural fields just itching to get some pads on. And now when you look around, new things are popping up, like the field house. Everything is getting real. Our vision is becoming a reality. Now we have to keep it going and keep building.” And as the football program continues to grow, even higher touted freshman are coming in ready to play. And with freshmen coming in there must be senior leaders to share the vision of the South Alabama football program. Graphenreed is surrounded by great young talent as a defensive back. He is working every day, side by side with players like freshman Ameriol Finley and E.J. May. “South’s name is buzzing around and we are bringing in a lot of people without talent,” Graphenreed said. “These young guys are soaking up everything like a sponge, and they are executing.” And as a football program, the start of every season is exciting, but this season is a little more hyped up because see Prove, page 14
Football Program Ready For New Challenges Matt Weaver Senior Reporter jmatthewweaver@aol.com
An optimistic and confident South Alabama football program took center stage at the athletic field house for media day on Aug. 11. They appeared all but ready for the upcoming season. The 2011 schedule includes road contests against Division-1 North Carolina State and Kent State but the Jaguar coaching staff insists they take their season one game at a time. “We try to go 1-0 every week,” offensive coordinator Greg Gregory said. “If you go 1-0 enough times over the course of a year, you’ll have a pretty good season.” The Jags will be tested by West Alabama and Lamar University before getting the opportunity to tame their D-1 opponents. The focus has to stay on the next game, according to defensive coordinator Bill Clark. Currently, that foe is West Alabama who will visit Ladd Peebles Stadium on Thursday Sep. 1. More importantly, the Jaguars must focus on themselves. “On offense, we worry far more about ourselves than the opponent,” Gregory said. “We’re going to know our opponent, but we work on polishing our own game.” North Carolina is likely the toughest opponent the Jaguars will face in 2011. The Wolfpack football squad finished the season ranking 25th in the nation after a 9-4 (5-3 ACC) football campaign. Marquee wins came against ranked Virginia Tech, Clemson and Maryland. They were invited to the Champ Sports Bowl where they defeated West Virginia, 23-
7.“If we do things right in the first two
“I’ve learned that kids respond to peoVanguard Archives
South Alabama assistant football coaches Greg Gregory (L) and Bill Clark (R). Gregory
games, that third game could be a lot of fun,” Clark said. Head coach Joey Jones is doing his part by creating a positive atmosphere for his team and staff. The word “optimism” came up several times and he hopes that becomes the young program’s identity. “I do believe in being positive, Jones said. “There are times where you have to get on them, so it’s not like we’re positive 100 percent of the time, but I do think that if you’re positive 90 percent of the time a kid will respond better to you.
ple, not to goals — we’ve got goals and that’s a motivating factor, but the most driving motivating factor in a person is to not let those around you down. If I think that you care about me, then I am going to respond to you in a positive way, and I think that’s our goal.” Jones attributes the mindset to his formative years, citing his mother and college coaches as chief inspirations. This year’s team has character but they also have increased speed and size.
see Football, page 14
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Sports Briefs USA SOCCER FOCUSES ON DEFENSE IN PRESEASON PRACTICE The defenders took the spotlight as the University of South Alabama soccer team continued preseason practice Thursday morning at The Cage. “We did a lot with our back line and our support off the ball today,” USA head coach Mike Varga said. “Collectively, they did very well. The good thing is that we don’t have to have one or two players carry us this year. We have a pretty deep group. I think we’ll be able to go deep into our bench and not lose the level of play we need in order to win games this year.” The two-a-day practice sessions include fitness drills and ball work that Varga hopes will lead to a winning season. JAGUAR WOMEN’S GOLFERS FINISH IN TOP 10 AT HARDEES COLLEGIATE INVITATIONAL Three University of South Alabama women’s golfers captured top-10 finishes at the Hardees Collegiate Invitational at Perdido Bay Golf Club Wednesday. Ashleigh Ryals, Ana Garcia and Kristen Golightly competed in the threeday, 54-hole event at Perdido Bay’s 6,300-yard par 72 course. Ryals (75-73-77) carded a threeround, 9-over par total of 225 to earn a fourth-place finish. The Gulf Breeze, Fla., native finished just five shots behind Campbell University’s Kaylin Yost, who turned in a three-round, 4-over par 220 to capture medalist honors. Garcia (75-75-76) finished one shot behind Ryals to secure a fifth-place finish with a three-round 10-over par total of 226. Garcia, who won the event last year, finished just six shots out of first. South Alabama will open the 201112 season at the Great Smokies Intercollegiate, Sept. 19-20, at the Waynesville Country Club in Waynesville, N.C. USA TO OPEN SEASON WITH FIRST TV GAME; SEPTEMBER TIMES SET The University of South Alabama football program is beginning a twoyear transition to the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision (formerly NCAA I-A) level officially when the season kicks off Sept. 1, and the Jaguars won’t have to wait long to make their first-ever television appearance. USA Director of Athletics Dr. Joel Erdmann announced Wednesday that the Jags’ contest with West Alabama that night will be aired live locally on UTV 44 and available nationally via ESPN3. In addition, Erdmann confirmed kickoff times for the Jaguars’ first four games of 2011 as well as a second ESPN3 appearance. USA and UWA will meet at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 1 at Ladd-Peebles Stadium, with Jim Cox (play-by-play), Dan Brennan (analysis) and Pat Greenwood (sidelines) handling broadcast duties. The matchup will also be available on ESPN3.com.
August 15, 2011
Sprinter Made Life Changing Decision Williams Made A Tough Choice Few People Have To Make
Ryan Franklin Sports Reporter tnl2387@aol.com
W
hat if you had to choose between something you love to do and someone you love? Kellend Williams, Jr., a 22-year-old senior at the University South Alabama had to face this decision in the spring of 2010. Williams has been running track ever since his days at Leflore High School. He was one of the better sprinters on the team. He was so good that he was offered a track and field scholarship at South Alabama. Williams started school in the fall semester of 2007, and began his pursuit of a degree in cardiorespiratory care in the allied health field. “I wanted to go into this field because I wanted to help people, and I believe the most important thing is to get patients to keep breathing while they are in the hospital,” Williams said. When school work was not on his Courtesy of Kellend Williams mind, Kellend trained hard for the upFormer South Alabama track and field sprinter Kelland Williams coming track season, and it resulted in him becoming one of the top three sprinters on the team. His teammates but she would still come and support er’s expensive medicine, which is about me with a big smile on her face,” said $180 a bottle. He also had to help pay even gave him the nickname “Speedy.” the bills. He never know what each day Track and field head coach Paul Williams. He informed coach Brueske and the will bring because his mom is always at Brueske said Williams was sort of a quiet rest of the team of his decision and said the center of his thoughts. kid, but all of the teammates liked him they understood and realized that family “I have to keep my phone on and close and he had a tremendous work ethic. “Kellend was no doubt one of my top comes first. Williams said Brueske told to me at all times, because my mom desprinters he always gave it 100 percent,” him that he could still come to practice if pends on me, and I never know when he wanted so he could still participate in she is going to call,” he said. He even has Brueske said. Everything was going well. Williams track meets. Williams thought it would to miss class or work sometimes to take not be fair to the other her to the hospital or to go and check in was maintaining teammates, because on her. Williams’ said her health situaan above 3.0 grade “I have to keep my they were working hard, tion is getting worse, but he is constantly point average, he was phone on and close and he did not want an thinking positively and praying that she a well rounded track easy pass. Brueske said gets better. star and life seemed to me at all times, that Williams has a good On the way to class one day Williams like it could not get because my mom head on his shoulders, is stopped by the track and saw a track any better. But in the a good kid and he wished meet in progress. “That should be me,” spring of 2010, Wil- depends on me, and I liams’ mother had a never know when she him the best of luck in his he said. “I really miss it. I was one of the future. top sprinters. I miss getting up to that stroke, and she was is going to call” “People do not real- line knowing that the guys on the side of hospitalized for two ize how time-consuming me did not have a chance to outrun me.” weeks. His life took a running track is. You have Another thing Williams misses about 180-degree turn. to constantly train and track is visiting different places. “Florida, It was then when Williams made the decision to hang up stay in shape if you are going to get bet- Tennessee, Arkansas, I have been to sevhis running shoes and help take care of ter,” Williams said. “When its time for a eral states, and if it was not for track I his mom and his younger siblings, fulfull- track meet, all of the training and hard probably would have ever been able to ing a promise he made to his mom that work you have done over the past few go to any of those places,” he said. Though Williams was and still is pashe would quit the team to help support months really shows.” Since track was so time-consuming sionate about running track, he said he her. The funny thing is that his mom had not liked him running track because and his classes were getting more diffi- would rather be there for his mom, beshe thought it would interfere with his cult and were requiring more focus, he cause she gave him so much and now it school work, but she still showed up at felt it would be best to part ways with is his turn to give back. the sport he loved to take care of his his track meets and supported him. “My mom hated that I ran track. I do loved ones. Williams said he had to get not think she liked the coaches either, a second job to help pay for his moth-
Freshman 10: Best Sports Movies Roger Dorn from the proverbial outhouse to baseball’s penthouse. Major League was released in 1989 It’s easy for college students to get and is considered by some to be the down on their luck in the early stages of greatest baseball movie ever made and a new fall semester. Adjusting to a new one of Hollywood’s all-time great comyear and muggy, stormy days can lead to edies. a ton of angst. Rocky – The tale of Rocky Balboa is This is where having several movies kindred to the American Dream. would help the adjustment phase of the Shot on a budget of less than $1 milnew year. lion dollars in 28 days, Rocky tells the The Vanguard is proud to announce rags-to-riches story of Rocky Balboa. the top ten sports films for incoming The ti tle character is a hard-on-his-luck freshman. For returning students, we boxer challenged to a World Heavyweight expect you to have already seen these. Championship match in Philadelphia, If not, shame on you. Balboa’s hometown. The Sand Lot-If you consider yourself The film chronicles the epic build-up to to be a sports fan and you haven’t seen Rocky’s confrontation with Apollo Creed, this movie, you are doing yourself a the World Heavyweight Champion. disservice. This is one of the movies you Rudy – Noti ce a trend developing have seen a million times, and you can here? Rags-to-riches. The American quote every line, but no matter what Dream these are all idioms for achieving when it is on, you’re glued one’s ambiti on. to the screen. If there is one That’s an analogy for Rudy, a sports movie that makes 1993 drama about love, life and you remember what is was Notre Dame Football. The film like to be a young athlete or tells the story of an undersports fan, this is it. There is sized coal-miner’s son with big not one person who can say dreams to play for the Fighting they don’t remember having Irish. their own sand lot and having The final half-hour is one of a friend who could steal the the most moving scenes in all ball from the “beast.” cinema. Remember the Titans- This A League of Their Own – Tom movie gives you so many Hanks, Madonna and Geena angles and covers more than Davis -what’s not to like about sports. You are confronted this quirky comedy based on with the issue of race from the real-life founding of the the opening scene but are World War II-era All-American carried through the movie by Girls Professional Baseball the sense of being a part of League? the family. The team beWhen the war threatened comes your team, and every to shut down Major League time Coach Boone starts to Baseball in the 1940s, a wealthy greenascot.com talk you get fired up just like business man created a women’s one of his players. This is a Tom Cruise as Jerry Maguire screaming “Show me the money!” league to make money. A League sports movie that is for more of Their Own is a charming than just a sports fan, which elevates it you to watch NBA greats like Michael snapshot of life in 1942 and a plain great even more. I promise after watching this Jordan, Charles Barkley and Larry Bird, baseball fi lm. movie you will be singing like the ‘rev’ just to name a few. And you can’t forget Escape to Victory – Known as “Vicand Louie or starting a chant like Petey characters Bill Murray, Wayne Knight and tory” in North America and released in and Gary. And of course, to top it all Jim Rome. But don’t forget about the 1981, this fi lm has an all-star cast featuroff, you have the great acting of Denzel cartoon characters like Bugs Bunny, Daff y ing Michael Caine, Sylvester Stallone, Washington. Duck and Elmore Fudd among many of Max von Sydow and football (soccer) Jerry Maguire- This movie is one of a their friends. legends Pele and Bobby Moore. kind as it not only shows you the athletic Major League – When a vile former Set during World War II, the film side of sports but is actually about the Las Vegas showgirl inherits the Cleveland features a ragtag team of Allied POWs business side. It shows the shark tank Indians Major League Baseball team and who agree to play a rigged exhibition world of sports agents and how rough it att empts to relocate it to Miami, it’s up football match against their German capcan be on not only an athlete, but everyto the worst team ever constructed to tors in a propaganda stunt. Their head one around that athlete. This is another win and keep the team in town. coach is Englishman John Colby (Caine) movie where you can’t help but quote it Charlie Sheen plays “Wild Thing” who played professionally for West Ham constantly after watching it. Tom Cruise Rick Vaughn, the ex-convict ace leading United before the war and gives his team screaming “Show me the money” will the speedy Willie Mays Hayes, voodootheir only chance at victory and escape... forever be implanted in my brain. This is worshipping Pedro Cerrano and snobby
Staff Report
also another movie that is more than just a sports movie for a sports fan. It has a little love, drama and comedy sprinkled in. And to think it all started out with a mission statement. The Mighty Ducks- As Gordon Bombay’s life is changed, he is court ordered to coach a pee-wee hockey team. Bombay teaches the kids on his team how to play like a champion and how to be great. This isn’t just a one hit wonder. There is more than one Mighty Ducks movie and each one is just as good as the next, and in every movies the Ducks bring the Quack Attack. These movies take you on adventures at every level of hockey, even taking a trip to the Junior Olympics. Space Jam- Even though this movie is intended for children, you can’t help but appreciate it, no matter your age. This is probably one of the most star studded movies in history. This movie allows
Football
Prove
from page 9 the Jaguars are playing two division-1 football teams. The Jags will suit up against West Alabama and Lamar before facing D-1 opponents Kent State, followed by North Carolina State. And as hard as the players and coaches try, there is no way they can’t look past their first
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from page 9 two games. “Every team we play puts pads on just like we do.” Graphenreed said. “ We don’t count anybody out. We don’t overlook anybody. “I know people overlooked us and I know how hard we work.”
“Our guys are getting stronger and faster and that’s a testament to our strength and conditioning program,” Jones said. “Some of our oldest players have spent three years getting Division-1 ready and I think we’re really close.” The University of South Alabama’s third football season
begins on Thursday, Sep. 1 at 6:30 p.m. when West Alabama visits Ladd-Peebles Stadium. The game will be broadcast on local channel UTV 44 with the broadcast set to begin at 6:00 p.m.
USA Soccer
Soccer Hoping for Rebound Season Jake Wasdin Sports Reporter Jake_Wasdin11@yahoo.com
After a disappointing 5-14-1 2010 season, South Alabama head coach Mike Varga and his soccer team are prepared to turn the team around. The team returns 25 players from last season, including five starters and seven seniors.That leaves six starting spots up for grabs, and the Jags are looking . The team will have to lean on players like Kristen Thacker and Brandi Smith, especially after losing one of the top scorers from last year’s team in Kasey Crowe. Thacker and Smith finished second and third in scoring. The Jaguars know they have their work cut out for them this season. South Alabama opens the regular season against Louisiana Tech, who won 15 matches last season and holds a top ranking in the WAC. The Jags will open their season on Aug. 19 in Ruston, La. To prepare for the season, the Jags will continue their two-a-days practices until the Alumni Game on August 13. “We try to go early and late,” Coach Varga said. “We’re going to try to do some light stuff in the afternoons, because we have to play in some afternoon matches. “We just have to stay hydrated. The heat only makes the team stronger,” junior defender Jessica Oram said. “It’s a good two hours of practice, and our games are only an hour and a half, so it’s good preparation,” Oram said. “I know it’s hot out here, but if you complain then other people will complain. “ You just have to lead by example and push through it.” South Alabama opens Sun Belt play at home against Louisiana-Lafayette at “The Cage” on September 23. “The Sun Belt Conference has steadily improved over the past few years and every match is a challenge,” Varga said. “We have the toughest stretch of matches that we could ask for in having the Denver and North Texas trip followed by the Florida Atlantic and Florida International trip. Down the stretch, having three of our last five matches at home will be a good way to end our regular season and get ready for the conference tournament.” The Jaguars finished 11th (3-7) in the Sun Belt last season.
Vanguard Staff Staff editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com
JagLife
Distractions August 15, 2011
By Ben Lewis Senior Comic Artist
Find “The Vanguard: USA’s Student Newspaper” on Facebook (You’re already there anyway)
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31 Ironic from page 21 means in a particular culture. So the only respect in which a dictionary tells us how a word ought to be used is if we’re using a word differently from how the rest of our culture is using it. If I tell my girlfriend that her dress is inscrutable, she’s going to suggest that I look up what that word means because I’m clearly not using it correctly. In other words, I’m not using it the way the rest of my culture uses it. So here we the word “irony” that something like 3.6 percent of people know how to use correctly (keep in mind that 88.7 percent of statistics are made up on the spot). The rest of us use it to mean a hilarious set of circumstances that are, well, ironic. It should be up to the dictionary to reflect the usage of a word for the other 96.4 percent of the population. I’m honestly still not sure what really constitutes irony, nor do I really understand how I (and everyone else) actually apply the word. All I know is that hardly anyone uses the word properly, which would suggest that the dictionary has failed us. One final thought. If irony is an outcome that is the opposite of what is expected, then isn’t the definition of irony itself ironic?
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Letters to The Editor Dear Editor, I was reading a story about Courtney Smith that was published on July 11. In the story it states that: “Now Smith is awaiting the next part of his life and his football career. After not being selected in the 2011 NFL draft, Smith must wait for the NFL supplemental draft but he isconfident he will play somewhere. “ This is an incorrect statement. If a player is not drafted in the regular draft the player become an undrafted free agent and is free to sign with any team that he wants as long as the team offers him a contract. The supplemental draft is for players who did not declare for the regular draft but later have issues in school and want to leave. Like Pryor from Ohio State. Kevin Ohnemus July 26, 2011
Have an issue that you would like addressed? Let us know by e-mailing us a letter-tothe-editor at editor.in.chief@ usavanguard. com, or visiting us on Facebook.
August 15, 2011
Strategems from page 9 but turning something in late will, in most cases, lead to a lower grade. If you follow rule number one, you shouldn’t have trouble with this one. 3. Develop a study plan and keep it. If you know that you have a big test on Monday, don’t wait until Sunday night to study for it. It will only make you even more stressed. The best thing to do is to set aside a few minutes every day for each class and just go over the material. Rinse and repeat. 4. If you have a job or are planning to get one, try to find one on campus. They’re good about working around your classes, and you won’t have to commute off campus, thus saving you valuable time and gas money. 5. Take a break every once in a while. All that working, studying, and class time can wreak havoc on your psyche and health. Go to the Student Recreation Center, get some coffee with a friend or attend a sporting event. Remember: All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. (And we all know how well that turned out in the end.)
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