Vanguard The
Serving USA students and the University community since 1963
April 4, 2011 |VOLUME 48, NUMBER 27
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University of South Alabama’s student newspaper
SGA elections starting to heat up By Alex Whalen MANAGING EDITOR
The sheet signs all over campus and Facebook invitations can only mean one thing: it’s SGA election week. Some candidates for officer positions are running unopposed: Nick Lawkis (Treasurer), Jean-Pierre Arditi (Attorney General), and Jason Cord Fallon (Student-at-Large). Three candidates are running for President, and two are running for Vice President and Chief Justice. Last Tuesday, the candidates for officer positions answered questions from the Elections Committee and the student body about their qualifications and their goals if elected. The word of the evening was “communication.” Candidates spoke about bettering communication with administration, the student body, and within the Student Government Association (SGA).
Genny Roman | Associate Editor
see SGA | 4
Online learning getting new management system By Carey Cox
SENIOR REPORTER
The University is expanding its educational scope by implementing the Learning with Technology Plan. The plan demonstrates to the Federal Department of Education the University’s commitment to provide sound training for faculty, develop good processes to make sure electronic tools are accessible to all students and authenticate learners and appropriate security, David Johnson, senior vice president of Academic Affairs, said. Johnson said 11 percent of the University’s credit hour production is online and growing rapidly. Dr. Jack Dempsey, director of the Innovation in Learning Center, said there were 350 unique online courses last year. The University began delivering online courses through its University-wide system in 1998. Over the next three years, the University will transfer to Sakai, a learning management system with a research collaboration system and an ePortfolio solution, Dempsey said. More than 350 organizations use Sakai, including Oxford University, Rutgers University and the
Chick-Fil-A, Pizza Hut coming to The Market By Genny Roman ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Chick-Fil-A and Pizza Hut will soon be two new additions to South Alabama’s campus. Recently, the University signed contracts with both franchises. They are part of the anticipated design for the Student Center’s food court, currently known as The Market. According to Craig Stephen, Director of Food Service, the pricing for Chick-FilA and Pizza Hut will match the immediate area’s restaurant pricing. In other words, students will pay prices close to those of the fast food restaurants around campus instead of restaurant prices close to the downtown area, for example. Chick-Fil-A’s menu will carry the full menu of a regular Chick-Fil-A. Pizza Hut will initially carry their pizza and chicken wings, adding their pastas to the menu after a month in service. The food at each restaurant in the food court will be made to order, “here on campus, just like it would be at any one of those chains,” Stephen said. The new food court at the Student Center will also house Aramark’s Burger Studio. Burger Studio is a futuristic burger stand concept, where students can order their food from a touch-screen kiosk, making a see MARKET | 4
see ONLINE | 2
IPolice Blotter p. 2
Happenings p. 2
inside
Opinion | page 9 SGA Presidential Race The three candidates let students know why they should get your vote.
Etc. | page 13 Amazon Cloud Amazon’s use of cloud technology will let you take your music anywhere.
Arts & Entertainment | page 14
Spring Fling Coming Up Go Vegas-style with Jaguar Productions and lose your pre-finals blues.
Sports | page 16 Colin McGee | Photo Editor
This humble bovine uses poor grammar to advocate the more contemporary food choice.
Campus Pulse p.8
Distractions p.18
MLB 2011 Preview A small preview of what you can expect from the best and worst teams in the league.
JagLife p.19
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April 4, 2011
Vanguard The
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, editor.in.chief@usavanguard.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 Editor-in-Chief, Managing Editor, Associate Editor, Copy Editor, 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@usavanguard.com. The Vanguard is a member of Collegiate Presswire and U-Wire, which syndicates to a national audience. 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. EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief: Daniela Werner Managing Editor: Alex Whalen Associate Editor: Cameron Adkins Associate Editor: Genny Roman Senior Reporter: Carey Cox Opinion Editor: Cassie Fambro Etc. Editor: Brett Williams Sports Editor: Matt Weaver Photo Editor: Colin McGee Webmaster: Rodney Thompson DISTRIBUTION Distribution Manager: Johnny Davis ADVERTISING STAFF Advertising Manager: Wesley Jackson Advertising Representative: Mohammad Ammar Al-Zarrad Graphic Designer: Brittany Hawkins MANAGEMENT Adviser: Jim Aucoin Accounting: Kathy Brannan Website: http://www.usavanguard.com Mailing Address The Vanguard University of South Alabama P.O. Drawer U-1057 Mobile, Ala. 36688 Phone Number (251) 460-6442 Article XIV, Section 8 of The Lowdown: The editors of the student publications shall be free from any type of censorship and shall be responsible for the form, content and staff of the publication. SPLC Statement: The Vanguard recognizes and affirms the editorial independence and press freedom of all student-edited campus media. Student editors have the authority to make all content decisions and consequently bear the responsibility for the decisions that they make.
POLICE BLOTTER 3/26- Minor in Possession of Alcohol Minors were found in possession of alcohol in the Epsilon 2 dorms. 3/26- Criminal Mischief, 3rd Degree A desk, bed and mini blinds were reported damaged in the Epsilon 1 dorms. The damage was estimated at $355. 3/27- Theft of Article from Auto Unknown suspects entered a vehicle parked at the intramural fields and stole a driver’s license, bankcards and cash. The items were valued at $28.
3/27- Theft of Article from Auto Unknown suspects entered a vehicle parked at the intramural fields and stole a credit card, driver’s license, keys, student ID and a social security card. The items were valued at $150 3/27- Warrant- No Insurance, Failure to Appear A student was arrested at Stadium Blvd. and Old Shell Rd. for an outstanding warrant with the Bald-
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University of Alabama at Huntsville. “The University still has a three-year contract with e-College. There is no intent to rush into this and make mistakes. We plan to proceed in the least disruptive manner possible, and we are fortunate to have time for the conversion,” Dempsey said at the University Committee of Online Learning meeting in February. The contracts with Sakai were completed last week, and Dempsey is continuing to work on the conversion process. “There’s some really big changes coming in the next few years in the richness of [online]
win County Sheriff’s Office.
3/28- Property Damage A student’s vehicle was damaged while parked in the south parking lot of the intramural fields. The damages were estimated at $205.
3/29- Warrant- Driving While License Suspended, Failure to Appear Two non-affiliates were arrested on outstanding warrants with the Foley Police Department, Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office and the Mobile Police Department for failure to appear- driving with a suspended license, domestic violence in the 3rd degree and distribution of a controlled substance.
3/30- Theft of Property, 3rd Degree A purse containing a wallet, cash and credit cards was reported stolen at the Mitchell Center. The items were valued at $147. 3/30- Theft of Property, 2nd Degree A victim reported $240 cash stolen from the Mitchell Center.
tools,” Dempsey said. With Sakai, students will be able to maintain a portfolio of their work throughout their time at the University and do collaborative research with people around the globe. “E-learning expands our reach to students from all over the country,” Johnson said. There are four proposed categories of classes under the new system: non Web-enhanced (these will be exceptions, like activity courses or thesis/dissertation hours), Web-enhanced, blended (this will include Web hybrids) and online (at least 85 percent of its content online). “Online learning has been more inclusive in terms of numbers of students who can take classes. They reduce costs for students, like gas,
happenings International Spring Festival What: The Council of International Students Organizations and Office of International Student Services will host the International Spring Festival featuring cultural exhibits and an international fashion and talent show. Where: Student Center Lobby/Mitchell Center When: April 7, 8 and 15 How much: Free For more info: Contact Donna Pigg, Director of International Student Services, at 251-460-6050.
Brown Bag at the Bell Tower What: The University invites all faculty, staff, alumni and friends of the University to bring a lunch and enjoy the outdoors at the new campus landmark. Where: Moulton Tower and Alumni Plaza When: April 20 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. How much: Free For more info: contact Office of Alumni Relations Membership Specialist Amanda Gonzales at 251460-7084 or agonzales@ usouthal.edu.
babysitter, etc.,” Dempsey said. This expansion of Web classes makes it easier for professionals or working students to obtain education. Johnson said blended learning is a very effective way to teach and for students to learn. “The blended courses are more at an undergraduate level,” Dempsey said. These courses will be utilized by more traditional university students. The transition to online tools for the classroom is a part of the process to “restructure education to get out of the 19th century,” Dempsey said. “The whole nature of a traditional classroom is changing very quickly.”
The
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April 4, 2011
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Gamma 9 Weather Research Center
Forecast for April 4 - 10
Patrick Bigbie Meteorologist
It’s going to be a stormy start to the school week with strong to severe weather. Monday will be in the low 80s for highs and lows around mid 50s. We expect severe thunderstorms to move in during the late afternoon into the overnight; these storms could contain large hail, high winds and tornadoes. Some showers and t-storms could still linger Tuesday morning, but things should clear by the late afternoon. Midweek looks a lot better, with mostly sunny skies and highs around the upper 70s to low 80s by the weekend. Lows during this period will be on the increase from the low 50s to the lower 60s. A chance of t-storms will return by the weekend, with highs around the low 80s and lows around the mid 60s.
For more local weather information, visit facebook.com/ stormteam4gamma9wx or follow Patrick on Twitter: @metwxpatrick.
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April 4, 2011
SA Group: New dorm will be ready for fall By Carey Cox
SENIOR REPORTER
The USA Bookstore renovations are scheduled to be complete by June 1, even though the contractor’s progress has slowed, according to Chris Willis, director of Facilities Management. “We’re trying to keep him up to speed,” Willis said. The general purpose building, located at Old Shell Road and Cleverdon Parkway, should be complete within the next two weeks. The building will be used for catering and meetings for faculty or students. Campus Crest, the same company that built The Grove, has been constructing the
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building. The new dorm will be complete for fall 2011 occupancy, Mary Walker of the SA Group said. The project is remaining within its $14 million budget. The portals are scheduled for completion summer 2011. There have been some weather delays and construction is staying in budget, $2.6 million, Walker said. Walker said Shelby Hall is scheduled for completion in early 2012. Also, renovations to the Student Center are in design. The SA Group is responsible for the construction of the portals, the new dorm, the research lab and the future Student Center renovations.
Area by Humanities cleared as part of safety initiative By Cameron Adkins ASSOCIATE EDITOR
The area between the Humanities Building and the Student Center was cleared of trees and undergrowth because it posed a threat to student safety, according to administrators. “Clearing of the trees and undergrowth around the Student Center and Library is due to a push for greater safety for students,” Director of Facilities Management Chris Willis told The Vanguard. “The area has been cited as an area of primary concern during University safety and security reviews.” By clearing the area of trees and undergrowth visibility will be much higher, espe-
Send Letters to the Editor to editor.in.chief@ usavanguard.com. Market from page 1
beef, turkey, or veggie burger to their liking. After placing an order from the kiosk, it is made to order from the specifications on the touch-screen kiosk. Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. John Smith said the food court will be ready by the end of fall 2011. Although part of the greater renovations to the Student Center, the food court is scheduled to be finished before the rest of the Student Center.
cially at night. “Student feedback on [the area that has been cleared] has been that it was extremely dark at night and perceived to be generally unsafe,” Dean of Students Michael Mitchell said. “Each semester we organize a lighting tour with SGA, housing and any other interested students which canvases the campus in search of non-functioning lights and dark areas on campus. “Each semester that I have done the tour the comments about this area have been consistent.” According to Mitchell, when he announced at an SGA meeting after Spring Break that the area would be cleared it received positive feedback from Senators.
SGA
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There was also a good deal of talk about increasing student involvement and minority representation with the SGA. “We have over 250 organizations on campus, but we need more student participation,” said vice presidential candidate Zain Hussain. His opponent, Jessica Byrd, echoed this sentiment. She wants to start a mandatory survey for incoming students that can match their interests with suitable clubs and organizations. The presidential candidates also expressed their desire for students to become more involved. “Too many students are left out of the process. They need to understand why they should be involved,” presidential candidate Alan Waugh said. There was little talk of specific ideas for improvement or campaign platform specifics, but this is fairly typical of the officer forum. As for the senate race, the colleges of Arts and Sciences and Nursing are the most contested senate seats. The former has 16 candidates running for 10 seats, and the latter has eight people vying for four seats. Because several colleges have the same number or fewer people running as there are seats, there won’t need to be an election for those positions. These include Continuing Education (one running, two vacant), CIS (one running, two vacant), and Education (four running, four vacant). The College of Medicine has no candidates running for its two vacant seats. In all, there are 46 candidates running and 36 seats available in the senate. Voting will begin Monday, April 4 at 6 p.m. and continue until Wednesday, April 6 at 3:30 p.m.. There will be a post-election gathering at the Moulton Bell Tower at 4:45 p.m. Wednesday, and the winners will be announced at 5:15 p.m. Should a runoff be required for any seats, it will be held April 13 and 14, with the winners being announced by 5 p.m. Students should expect an e-mail Monday evening from the SGA telling them where and how to vote. All voting will take place online via e-mails sent to student Jaguar1 accounts.
The
Vanguard
SGA Voter’s Guide
Vanguard Staff editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com
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April 4, 2011
www.usavanguard.com
President
Powers and responsibilities: Chief executive and spokesperson. Appoint replacements for vacant positions. Can veto SGA senate bills. Appoint associate justices of SGA Supreme Court. Serve as non-voting member of University Board of Trustees.
Candidate Name
What leadership experience do you have?
What would be your main goal if elected?
What would you keep or change from last year?
How will you be the students’ spokesperson?
Alan Waugh
Co-founder & President of USA Prelaw & Government Association , USA Southerner, and Chair of the SGA PR & Advertising committee that developed the 2009 Safety Campaign.
Through a Dynamic Leadership I want to highlight the Diversity on our campus and make sure that each and every students voice is able to be heard.
SGA needs to be more out there in the field with their constituents and I not only want to serve as the administration liaison but also a key advocate for the student body.
By making sure the every student has an opportunity to have their needs and concerns heard and working actively with the administration to accomplish them.
Troy Shephard
I am the current SGA Chief Justice, President of Alpha Kappa Psi, and have served as an officer in many other student organizations.
To improve the overall campus environment by continuing safety and environmentallyfriendly programs which have been implemented by the current SGA.
I will continue the current SGA’s goal of implementing Senate projects (i.e. bike drive) and resolutions which positively impact the student body.
Colin Al-Greene
I am the current SGA Vice President. I have also served as Chief Justice, Senator and Homecoming Elections Chair and Social Development Chair.
I would fight to enhance to the quality of student life and availability of services to students here at USA.
I would encourage the SGA to participate in more activities put on by other organizations. I continue participation in what we already do.
How will you deal with USA’s most pressing problems? Tuition is a main concern and I think we need to look into making this more fair for students and work on bringing back the Line Item tuition expenses inside of the Student Term Fee Assessment.
Search “Alan Waugh for SGA President” on Facebook or give me a call (251) 404-9393. You can find this on my flyers as well.
By regularly meeting with University administration and informing them of the current needs and concerns of students.
I will work diligently with the SGA Senate, the student body, and University administration to resolve campus issues.
My campaign platform is posted on my Facebook group, and I can be contacted at tds801@jaguar1. usouthal.edu.
I will set up a weekly meeting on campus to meet with students so I can better hear their concerns and suggestions.
I will, with the help of the rest of the SGA, use our resources and abilities to address the wants and needs of the students.
I have a Facebook event. I also have flyers around campus. You can also ask me directly: calgreene@ comcast.ent.
How can we find out more about your campaign?
Vice President
Powers and responsibilities: Preside over all meetings of the Student Senate, vote in cases of tie, execute duties of president at president’s request. Appoint all committe chairs at beginning of semester.
Candidate Name
What leadership experience do you have?
What would be your main goal if elected?
What would you keep or change from last year?
What is the most important duty of VP?
Zain Husain
I am currently the SGA Senator for the College of Arts and Sciences.
My main goal if elected would be to increase student involvement around campus. Student involvement is less than 20% of the student population. An increase in this would be a positive thing.
A very important duty of the Vice President is to work closely with the senate. We want to work hard to make next year the best year it can possibly be for the students.
Jessica Byrd
I am a fundraising coordinator in AED, and I am the current Student Affairs chair in SGA.
Raise awareness of who the SGA representatives are by increasing non-senate involvement and encouraging a more active senate.
Next year’s SGA personel looks a lot different than this year’s. With new faces brings new ideas and opportunities. I hope to increase senate projects by encouraging a new one each month. As vice president I would keep the new budget process, however I would increase involvement of non senate committees.
The vice president is the president of the senate so my main goal is to lead everyone through a productive year of helping students.
How will you deal with USA’s most pressing problems? I feel that communication is one of the best ways to get through problems. Take things step by step and work things out instead of stressing about them and making wrong decisions. Working well with our new SGA president will be crucial in effectively doing this, I will encourage senators to find out how their constituents feel on the matter as well.
How can we find out more about your campaign? Anyone is free to email me at zmh801@ jaguar1.usouthal.edu. I check my email daily. Also I have a Facebook group page.
Visit my Facebook page “vote Jessica Byrd SGA vice president.” Students can email me as well over Facebook or at jfb703@jaguar1. usouthal.edu. Thank you!
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SGA VOTER’S GUIDE
April 4, 2011
Treasurer
Vanguard
Powers and responsibilities: Manages SGA funds, maintains a system to audit SGA-approved expenditures, and reports finances to SGA Senate every semester.
Candidate Name
What leadership experience do you have?
What would be your main goal if elected?
What would you keep or change from last year?
How will you improve appropriations?
Nick Lawkis*
Current Graduate Assistant for Campus Involvement, President of Sigma Alpha Pi, Member of Alpha Chi, Alpha Kappa Psi, and Golden Key Honor Society
Work on consistent follow up measures between my office and student groups to ensure they are turning in necessary information to receive approved funding.
I would introduce additional informational meetings for student groups about appropriations and increase contact with student groups through e-mail, Office of Campus Involvement, and SGA Website.
I will strive for improved efficiency in the mass appropriations process in addition to making sure the appropriations committee has adequate preparation.
How will you deal with USA’s most pressing problems? By advocating for policy and programs that benefit our students and organizations.
How can we find out more about your campaign? I have created a Facebook event and am also available by e-mail to answer any questions at nickeltx@ yahoo.com.
*Only student running for this particular office.
Chief Justice
Powers and responsibilities: Presides over SGA Supreme Court, handles traffic ticket appeals in cooperation with the attorney general, and maintains all SGA judicial records.
Candidate Name Basia Smith
What leadership experience do you have?
What would be your main goal if elected?
What would you keep or change from last year?
How will you ensure fair Court hearings?
SGA: Senator, chair of 2 committees, member of Rules and Legal Affairs committees; Outstanding Senator Award at Collegiate Legislature; Experience in impeachment process.
Improve JagTran routes and parking through connection with students; make Facebook group for easier communication; make signs that lists specific routes that each bus goes to.
Security has improved since last year; there enough officers around campus.
In the past proven to be fair and consistent as senator by helping organizations (Show Choir/Anime) receive money even if no one was on my side.
How will you deal with USA’s most pressing problems? Talk to students; Students should rule the school--not one group of people; Listen to them through facebook, in person, or by phone.
How can we find out more about your campaign? Facebook group, come talk to me, email: bns703@jaguar1. usouthal.edu subject: “Chief Justice”
Senate
Powers and responsibilities: Forms policies and passes laws. Senators are elected according to college, and all students may vote for all seats.
College of Arts and Sciences Candidate Name
What qualifications/experience do you have?
What specific changes do you hope to implement?
How can we find out more about your campaign?
Andrew Augustine
Though this is my first time running for a senate seat, I can guarantee that no one is more excited to represent you!
The Fresh Food Company! If the operating hours say they are open until 10, but close most stations around 8, that is not okay.
Visit and join my group on Facebook. Feel free to message me about anything pertaining to the campaign! Go Jaguars, Bleed it Red!
Tiara Jones
SGA president in middle school. Also was very involved in SGA in my High School. Currently member of Jaguar Productions. Also member of The African American student Association and PreLaw Asscociation.
I would like to continue to help make the Jag Tran routes better for the student body as a whole. I would like to take into consideration what changes the students themselves want due to the fact that we do represent them.
E-mail tqj801@jaguar1.usouthal.edu or search on Facebook for Tiara Quana Jones.
Priscilla McCants
I served as the first Freshman at Large for SGA for 2008-09, the first chair of the Mr. and and Mrs. Jaguar Committee, and I have also served as a senator for the College of Arts and Sciences for the 2009-10 term.
I hope to work with other SGA officers to maintain SGA’s credibility and to work hard to see where students feel the money from our operations budget can be put to good use.
Check flyers around campus and Facebook. Feel free to send me any questions or concerns via email. pem702@jaguar1.usouthal.edu
Bridget Mott
I am dedicated, loyal, and have leadership skills.
I will implement the changes that the student body wishes me to address.
Facebook, e-mail at corwrenh@yahoo.com, or in person.
Clarity in all education concentrations, Parking Solutions, Increased School Spirit
Facebook Event “Vote Brandon M. Caten for College of Education Senator” or Brandon.Caten@ Gmail.com
College of Education Brandon Caten
Founder/Director/President of The USA Show Choir, 3 Years of Teaching at Sunny Side Theatre, National Society of Leadership & Success
The
SGA VOTER’S GUIDE
Vanguard
College of Nursing
What specific changes do you hope to implement?
April 4, 2011
How can we find out more about your campaign?
Candidate Name
What qualifications/experience do you have?
Tara Green
I could list all the offices I held in high school and college organizes and clubs but my most important qualification is that I am a student just like you but if you elected I will be here with listening ears.
Nurses are advocates for patients. I will be an advocate for my nursing classmates and the rest of the USA student body. The changes that would be implemented would be the changes that they (YOU) want because I will be their(YOUR) voice.
To find out more about my campaign and to tell me changes that you the students of South Alabama would like to see made, you can send me an email at tlg1001@jaguar1.usouthal.edu or shoot me a message on Facebook underTara Leann Green!
Cassity Horton
I am currently serving as a Nursing Senator, a member of Student Nurses Association, a member of Circle K and a Southbound Orientation Leader.
I want students to have the best experience at South Alabama while being safe. I want to work with safety and security for students and work with student affairs.
Facebook and around campus.
Rupert Laco
My qualifications include leaderships at local, state, and national level. One of my positions was being Executive Council Member of the Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA) for Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas.
Sarah Malone
Nina Wilson
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[No information available.]
Facebook.
I am a very outgoing, trustworthy, and outspoken individual. I will always be honest and am always willing to help out another student.
I hope to give South Alabama more publicity and have more students involved in campus life.
You can find out more about my campaign on Facebook and around campus.
This past year, I was a senator for the College of Nursing. Also, I was the committee chair for the Governmental Affairs Committee.
As Nursing Senator, I would work with my fellow senators to improve parking at the Allied Health Building and improve campus wide security for students.
My Campaign information can be found across campus with sheet signs, buttons, and also through a facebook event.
Increase eco friendly projects, Better safety for students, Improve Jag Tran efficiency, Help support USA’s traditions i.e. Higher Ed day, Gumbo/Chili Cook Off, Oozeball.
By E-mail at naw802@jaguar1.usouthal.edu or going to my facebook event: Vote Nathan Wisner MCOB Senator.
What specific changes do you hope to implement?
How can we find out more about your campaign?
Mitchell College of Business Nathan Wisner
Treasurer of Pre-Law and Government Association, Executive Committee of Sigma Chi Fraternity, President’s List every semester at South Alabama
College of Engineering Candidate Name
Jacqueline Gayton
Christopher Milton
Sean Ramsey
What qualifications/experience do you have?
I was president of a number of clubs in high school As an SGA Senator, I hope to make South more and held an office at Girls State for my county in convenient for students that commute. 2009. I am responsible and good at managing my time. I am the Junior Deacon of Howard Lodge #69, and Increased patrols and noticeable police presence after I successfully managed two different Game Stop dark on campus and I want a more approachable stores for five years. senate.
Three years of SGA, appropriations chair, active student leader, former resident advisor, member of the student organization committee.
Parker Chastain
Kacie Watson
Brittany Ward
People con visit http://www.facebook.com/#!/ pages/Vote-Christopher-Milton-for-EngineeringSenate/ and post questions on the wall or e-mail me directly at my university e-mail, clm603@jaguar1. usouthal.edu with questions.
To fix problems with student funding waste, revise the parking survey to better reflect actual campus conditions, to better appropriations process.
Facebook me, or email me at smr606@jag...
What qualifications/experience do you have?
What specific changes do you hope to implement?
How can we find out more about your campaign?
I am currently a Campus correspondent for the USA Med Schools Gumbo Chili Showdown, and an active member in the Honors Program, USA ShowChoir and AED. I am currently a Campus correspondent for the USA Med School’s Gumbo Chili Showdown, and an active member in Alpha Epsilon Delta and the Honors Program.
I hope to ensure that the students funds are being allocated in the correct manner and aid the resolve of parking for special needs on campus.
To find out more about my campaign please visit my Facebook event, Vote Parker S. Chastain for Allied Health Senator.
College of Allied Health Candidate Name
To find out more about my campaign like my page on Facebook. The name of it is “Vote for Jacqueline Gayton for College of Engineering SGA Senate.”
I am a senior and have been involved in many organizations on campus including Southerners, Kappa Delta and many Allied Health clubs.
My focus if elected is to put a better emphasis on To find out more about my campaign please visit security, making dimly lit areas well lit and to improve my Facebook event, Vote Kacie A. Watson for Allied security overall. Health Senator!
Academic help programs and any concerns of my peers!
Feel free to email me at bmw703@jaguar1.usouthal. edu or Facebook. I would love to answer your questions and hear your ideas!
Opinion
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April 4, 2011
The
Vanguard Cassie Fambro, Opinion Editor opinion.editor@usavanguard.com
www.usavanguard.com/opinion
OUR VIEW EDITORIAL BOARD >>editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com
STAFF EDITORIAL Daniela Werner | Editor-in-Chief Alex Whalen | Managing Editor Cameron Adkins | Associate Editor
Genny Roman | Associate Editor Cassie Fambro | Opinion Editor Carey Cox | Senior Reporter
The Lesser of Three Evils It’s that time of year again when we at The Vanguard pick an SGA presidential candidate to endorse. But “endorse” might be too strong a word this year. There are three candidates running for SGA President: Colin Al-Greene, Troy Shephard and Alan Waugh. And none of them has done much to impress us. Let’s start with the man who should be a shoo-in for president, at least on paper. Al-Greene has the most SGA experience, touts a lot of on-campus involvement, and is the current SGA vice president. But Al-Greene has struggled all year to motivate his senators and himself. Some time ago, Al-Greene was going to try to fix problems with senate motivation with the introduction of a “Senator of the Week” program. This would reward senators for being active and involved with the campus. Even if the idea would have motivated senators who weren’t involved instead of rewarding those who already were, we haven’t heard anything about the program since Al-Greene’s announcement. You might also notice Al-Greene’s comment in the Point-Counterpoint that he “moved the Lowdown, the Student Handbook, to a digital version.” This statement is about as true as Al Gore saying he invented the Internet. It was originally Treasurer Michael Baldwin’s idea that then-Vice President Kim Proctor ran with. Waugh, on the other hand, does seem to be a highly motivated individual. But we really don’t know that
much about him. We know that he has the least SGA experience, was disqualified during last year’s senate race, and stepped down from a leadership position with the Southerners. His platform is very ambitious, and he’s trying to reach out to the non-traditional students at USA. But without any knowledge of the intimate workings of the SGA, especially what happens behind closed doors, we won’t hold our breath that many of his goals would be accomplished. It’s doubtful that Waugh would get enough votes anyway without Greek support. Finally, there’s current Chief Justice Troy Shephard. This is his first year in the SGA, so his level of experience is not ideal. And although he’s technically an officer, he is not a member of the Executive Committee – an integral part of how the SGA functions. We worry how he would present himself and be received by the administration. This all seems pretty bleak, and that’s probably because it is. We’re just not sure if the positive trends we’ve seen with this year’s SGA would continue under any of these candidates’ leadership. It’s truly a matter of picking the lesser of three evils – someone who isn’t going to make a complete mess of things while in office. And as it stands right now, your guess is as good as ours.
enough to merit consideration as the president of the organization. I could even discuss how SGA meetings under his “leadership” are basically chaos. But I’m not going to talk about those By Matthew Peterson things. Instead, I think all we need to know about mwp601@jaguar1.usouthal.edu Al-Greene as SGA president is illustrated by his conduct when former SGA President Glenn Gardner was impeached. Let’s begin with some background. It was near the end of the fall 2009 semester, late October, actually. Al-Greene was the SGA chief justice, and Basia Smith, an SGA senator who is now running for chief justice, brought charges against Gardner. The charges are pretty long and complex, Editor’s note: This column but they centered upon Gardner failing to fuldoes not reflect the opinion of our fill his duty as the spokesperson for SGA. To support this, Smith detailed how GardEditorial Board. Either the definition of leadership has ner missed important meetings without notice, changed, or Colin Al-Greene doesn’t know including two Board of Trustees meetings and JagFest, the annual welcome festival for freshwhat it is. Al-Greene, the current SGA vice president men. The charges also included the fact that and candidate for SGA president, proclaims Gardner had not responded to Vanguard rethat he is the “tried and true candidate,” cit- quests for an interview for six weeks. The charges were confirmed by the SGA ing his experience as an SGA senator, the chief Senate (not voted on -- the SGA constitution justice, and, now, vice president. only requires that a few senators affirm them). This is laughable. Here, I could talk about how the only ac- This means they’re passed on to the SGA Sucomplishment he lists, putting the Lowdown preme Court, which consists of the SGA chief online, is something he had little part in, if any. justice, who was Al-Greene, and a few associOr I could mention how he has done little for ate justices. The Supreme Court’s duty here is basically the student body in his time with SGA, hardly
Tilting at Windmills
Leadership Means Nothing to SGA Pres Candidate
just to see if these charges have any merit whatsoever. The SGA constitution puts it this way: “the Supreme Court shall decide whether there is sufficient evidence to support the charges against the official” (Article VII, 2.4). The Supreme Court doesn’t have to agree with the charges or even say the person should be removed. Instead, this step is to save time in case the charges are just completely frivolous. When it came to Al-Greene’s desk, he and the rest of the Supreme Court dismissed the charges, saying the charges hadn’t been “put together correctly,” a technical excuse to save Gardner’s job. All of the things listed above, not going to Board meetings and not responding to The Vanguard, were correctly alleged in the charges as Gardner’s failure to act as the SGA’s spokesperson, yet Al-Greene dismissed them, including all of the others. Does Al-Greene find that missing meetings and refusing to speak to the student newspaper, or any student, is consistent with being the SGA spokesperson? Obviously. If that’s true, then what kind of president will he make? I don’t have to answer this question. But that’s not the end of the story. Before Gardner’s hearing before the SGA Supreme Court, Al-Greene wanted to act as his defense attorney at the hearing. Not only does this confirm that Al-Greene found nothing wrong with Gardner’s actions, see LEADERSHIP | 11
What are your thoughts on parking access and parking safety on campus?
Angela Roney Psychology Senior
It’s a horrible situation. The spaces are small, you have to ride around forever to find a spot. Plus, people are careless and hit cars, then they drive away. I’ve seen entire bumpers on the ground.
I have a North tag and it’s pretty awful in relation to the Life Sciences building. I would also really suggest cameras to protect students from car damage and theft. I do not feel safe in the parking lots at night.
Cheyenne Bobo Public Relations Freshman
It doesn’t affect me because I don’t have a car on campus. It’s really easy to commute on campus by walking or Jag Trans, but the parking lots are dangerous to pedestrians because of careless drivers. Most parking lots are also creepy at night.
I have a central parking pass. Central parking is not as bad as some other parking lots but it could be better. The streets and parking lots are definitely not safe due to pedestrian danger and speeding by drivers.
Patrick Herring Communication Junior
Jessie Weaver Psychology Senior
Johnathan Pham Intl. Studies/Bus. Sophomore
I feel like it’s a disaster. I have a South pass. With the construction, many spaces are blocked off, and it pushes me to the back of the MCOB lot. The lots are generally safe because I park there during the daylight.
The
OPINION
Vanguard
April 4, 2011
9
POINT COUNTERPOINT Editor’s Introduction: In light of SGA elections this week, we bring to you the Presidential candidates arguing for why you should vote for them. These words come straight from the candidates’ mouths (or keyboards, as it were) to you. In the interest of fairness, we have not edited the content in any way, except for spacing. The candidates were told
to submit an article between 300 to 350 words on why they should be elected president. You can find additional information on these and other SGA candidates in The Vanguard’s SGA Voter’s Guide on page 5. Voting begins Monday at 6 p.m. and ends Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. Winners will be announced at 5:15 p.m. on Wednesday.
Colin Al-Greene
Troy Shephard
Alan Waugh
If elected Student Government Association President, I will bring a level of experience unrivaled by either of my opponents. Since I arrived at South my freshman year, I have been involved in SGA. I have been the Social Development Committee Chair, a Senator for the College of Arts and Sciences, the Homecoming Elections Chair in 2009 and 2010, Chief Justice, and I currently serve as Vice President. My leadership experience spans beyond my involvement in SGA. I am a proud brother of the Kappa-Nu Chapter of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. In Kappa Sigma I am Public Relations Chair. I have been the Vice President of the Pre-Law Association, Vice President of Professional Development for Alpha Kappa Psi Business Fraternity, a member of Freshman Advisory Board, a Peer Mentor, and, for four years, a SouthBound Orientation Leader. I am the tried and true candidate. During my time in office I have fought to improve campus parking, dining services, campus safety, and athletic participation. I moved the Lowdown, the Student Handbook, to a digital version. This simple act saved the student body $25,000.00 and spared nearly a quarter million pieces of paper. As your President, I will work to further improve dining, expand Greek life, fight to improve transportation, and voice the concerns of the student body. I want to encourage students to attend more campus events as well as dramatic, visual art, and musical showcases. I will also encourage the building of additional parking for the short and long term necessities of this campus. If I am elected President, I will also try to improve campus sustainability. I also want to start an education program on safe and sober driving. A vote for me is a vote for experience, reliability, and promise of better things to come.
I am your current Student Government Association Chief Justice, and I encourage you to support me in becoming your next SGA President. During my time in office, I have worked to improve communication with administration and to improve the overall campus experience. Having attended meetings with President Moulton and many University officials, I have voiced student concern and informed faculty of student issues. As your 2011-2012 SGA President, I plan to continue these efforts and to be the voice of the student body. Throughout the year, I have attended Board of Trustees meetings and a Foundation meeting in which I lobbied for student scholarship funding and voiced student opinions regarding tuition increases and campus construction. Recently, I have communicated with the Chief of Police to inform the police force of student safety concerns and discussed safety projects. In an effort to improve campus safety, I will continue to hold meetings with campus administrators to keep both students and administration current on student issues and concerns. Moving forward, I hope to continue to improve the appropriations process and ensure that student funds are available and open to all student groups. By doing so, I hope to encourage more students to become involved on campus and to be active in the Student Government Association and other campus groups. Also, I have supported SGA Senate projects to improve campus sustainability and eco-friendliness. These “green” projects, such as Senator Powell’s bike project, will be encouraged and continued throughout my term in office. By working with the Student Sustainability Council, vast improvements can be made in this area as the University is currently rated poorly in eco-friendliness. With such a diverse and driven student body, the Student Government Association has great potential to improve the campus over the next year and to improve the quality of the student experience. As your SGA President, I will strive to be your voice to administration and to be open to all student concerns. I am the experienced Presidential candidate, and I am ready to serve as your SGA President.
I am a firm believer that Transparency in politics is key, but I believe that this should not stop after the ballots are counted. The promises in my campaign are actually achievable and not the vague ones candidates seem to give every year. By highlighting the diversity at USA and opening the doors for the non-traditional students that currently account for over half of our student population we can make sure that every student’s needs and concerns are being addressed. One of the main points of my campaign is to drive diversity, and I will do that by finding other ways to keep non-traditional students involved and up-to-date by doing a weekly podcast that can be downloaded to iPhones, iPods and other portable devices. This way they can keep up and know what is happening within their SGA on their own time. Also, I will have lunch once a week in the new dining hall and have a table set up so that students can come to me and talk about their needs and concerns. Another point in my campaign is to ask the President of the senate to take a picture of each senator and post those pictures outside of the Dean’s office in the college that they represent. This will bring a new level of communication between the senators and their constituents One of the key issues that is brought up again and again is tuition, and I believe there are ways to work to make this a more equal process between the student body and our administration. The USA Foundation’s main funding is timber, which has done very well in the last few years. I see no reason why we can’t work with the Foundation to increase their funding to help the University weather this economic storm. Lastly, it is not about just what I have laid out in my campaign platform. I am going to actually listen to what the students need and work to make those things happen. So when you go to cast your vote, remember that I am Driven for Diversity Through A Dynamic Leadership and I ask that you vote for me Alan Waugh as your next SGA President.
Cassie Fambro Opinion Editor
SMOKE ON THE WATER
Proctor Set New Standard
The candidate who wins SGA president has some big shoes to fill. Cute shoes, too. Kim Proctor has exhibited a level of professionalism and poise that has brought back dignity to student affairs during her tenure as SGA President. In all reality, she’s actually been SGA president for two years, since she served on SGA under a president that didn’t do much of anything during his term. Proctor’s campaign promises were to be
“an involved and dedicated student leader that cares about student needs” as stated in The Vanguard April 2010. Proctor has done just that. With her appropriate balance of listening to students and lobbying administration on behalf of those students, she fulfilled her role completely. Many people fail to realize that what goes on behind the scenes is just as important as what is displayed to the public. In fact, much of what goes unsaid in a public forum ends up mattering more. The meetings she had with faculty, administration and student groups were not necessarily publicized, but the results were. Personally, I can attest that her involvement with Sustainability Council since the beginning has been crucial to our success. She has remained focused on bringing sustainable initiatives to USA and that culminated in an official University Sustainability Committee, which is now part of her legacy. Students involved with the Gay Lesbian
and Trans-gender Alliance can attest that Proctor fought for them to get USA’s nondiscrimination policy altered to reflect their rights. This is a substantial victory that truly has the student’s interest at heart. Another example of her profound leadership came by way of standing up to the administration when she knew they were wrong not to change their plans for the academic calendar. She utilized her power and came to The Vanguard with an article to show students that she had heard the complaints about no dead days and Saturday exams, and the administration responded. Another victory was achieved by standing up for students in a positive way. This takes a level of courage to risk a relationship with the administration but to stand up for the students. She was also a key member in establishing a fall break that students vehemently support. When working with administration, it’s
crucial to be knowledgeable about your subject matter and state your goals clearly and respectfully. I’ve watched Proctor navigate a room that had people like the mayor, President Moulton, a representative for the governor and dozens of other notable figures and be able to remember each of their names and ask how the kids were doing. This displays a business-savvy strength that’s to be admired. The candidate who gets elected for next year should be advised that Proctor has raised the bar in both representing SGA with dignity, as well as poise. Proctor has a passion for higher education, and I believe that it will take someone of her caliber to truly make the difference in education at the policy level. Personally, I could see her becoming a key figure in the Department of Education if she chooses to. I wish her the best in all of her endeavors, and I congratulate her on the profound legacy she will leave behind at USA.
10 April 4, 2011
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Leadership from page 8
but it raises two issues. One, he wanted to pass the buck. Al-Greene was elected to be the chief justice, for whatever that’s worth, so he had an obligation to hear cases that came before him. Yet he wanted to sit out on the most important case of the year. Two, if he wanted to defend Gardner and actually said this to other people, then he is obviously biased and should not have heard the case. However, he refused to do so. When confronted with this, Al-Greene pled that, “I don’t feel like I was in the wrong.” Someone who does not find anything wrong with someone completely ignoring their job as president, tries to pass on his duty to decide the case, and decides it even though he obviously had a bias does not deserve to be SGA president.
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Etc.
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April 4, 2011
The
Vanguard Brett Williams, Etc. Editor etc.editor@usavanguard.com
www.usavanguard.com/etc
Insider Dietitian offers no-pill food solution information to glean nutrients, avoid vitamins for future entrepreneurs
Business Insider Mark Zwilling talks with future entrepreneurs about the pitfalls of starting a new business.
By Brett Williams ETC EDITOR
Part of the dream as students work their way through college is to someday get out from under the thumb of employers, bills and living according to schedules other people set for them. It’s commonplace when you hear that someone wants to start their own business using what they’ve learned in college. U n f o r t u n a t e l y, many beginners see their dreams go up in smoke before the ball ever gets rolling. It’s a sad reality that Martin Zwilling, a Business Insider at Inc.com attributes to just not having a clear focus when starting a business. Because of tighter business markets, students are learning in college that in order to make themselves attractive to employers they will need to be multitalented and have a broad range of abilities. However, that doesn’t apply when students interested in becoming entrepreneurs are looking for customers. Zwilling urges all entrepreneurs to keep things simple especially in the beginning. “I can’t think of a company that launched to superstardom with a broad focus. Can you?” Zwilling writes. “It’s great to dream big, but your start-up needs a laser focus in the beginning to get market and investor attention.” Students need to change their wiring basically, from employee to entrepreneur. As an employee, people need to be able to say that their ability to multitask can cover a broad range of areas, but when attracting customers it’s more important that a start-up business be able to do one thing very well. Future entrepreneurs should focus on that because trying to do everything for everybody pretty much guarantees that nothing will be up to par for consumers, according to Zwilling. Future entrepreneurs need to be careful with their focus, too. Focus on the wrong aspect of your business and it’ll probably mean certain doom. “Focus on exploiting strengths and achieving success rather than resolving weaknesses and avoiding problems,” writes Zwilling. All of this is just information for the start, Zwilling encourages entrepreneurs “not to give up on their vision” because it’s that vision that will inevitably be the driving force behind their company’s success one day.
Graphic from washingtonpost.com
Displayed in full, interactive format on the Washington Post website, Dietitian Danielle Omar's No-Pill Solution, also depicted above, shows consumers how to create simple, healthy meals that offer all the nutrients they attempt to get from supplements like vitamins and pills. For breakfast, Omar suggests a 299-calorie diet of oatmeal mixed with fruits and nuts, followed by a 218-calorie morning snack of fruit and nuts. Wheat bread and thinly sliced portions of ham or turkey with soup and cantaloupe for a 466-calorie lunch, followed by a 158-calorie snack of baby carrots and hummus. For dinner, Omar recommends a 449-calorie meal including a 4 oz broiled salmon with one cup of broccoli and a half a cup of brown rice. In her final graphic, Omar recommends a 271-calorie snack of skim milk and a banana.
Scientists’ new discovery disproved By Gabe Grimes STAFF WRITER
According to the British newspaper The Independent, there might be a new planet. The paper credits physics professors from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Drs. Whitmire and Matese, as having put forth the new planet hypothesis. The doctors came up with this hypothesis because they noticed something when they looked at the arrival of “long period” comets: a good 20 percent of them didn’t come from where they’re supposed to have come. The professors say this new planet would be a gas giant, four times the size of Jupiter and 15,000 times as far from the sun as we are. At that distance, it would exist inside the Oort Cloud, a massive collection of ice balls that surrounds
the solar system like a shell. They are tentatively calling the new planet “Tyche”. They say they are hoping that the planet’s existence will be proven using data from NASA’s Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer. However, it could take up to two years for the WISE data analysis to prove the existence of Tyche. According to The Independent, Tyche was most likely pulled out of another solar system and ended up in ours. Here’s the problem: another article at space.com suggested that in the mid 1980s to help explain some mass extinctions. Mass extinctions seem to happen at set times throughout our planet’s history. Typically, one happens every 27 million years. Granted, some mass extinctions happen at other times during the 27-million-year cycle, and sometimes no extinctions happen when the 27-million-year
mark rolls around, but the likelihood of mass extinctions happening is highest every 27 million years. We are about 11 million years into the current cycle. Obviously, mass extinctions shouldn’t be cyclical, so scientists put their heads together and came up with a theory: a dim failed star called Nemesis is orbiting our Sun out past the Oort Cloud. Once every 27 million years, it passes into the Oort Cloud, kicking up some comets which come crashing through our part of the solar system. The flaw with that idea is the same flaw that I see with the “Tyche” idea: the influence of the galaxy tide isn’t accounted for. The “Nemesis” hypothesis was discounted due to the fact that the galaxy tide would exert enough of a pull that Nemesis wouldn’t be able to have a regusee PLANET | 15
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Vanguard
ETC.
April 4, 2011
Amazon launches new cloud tech
Amidst all the hype surrounding the possibilities of Cloud technology, Amazon leaps to the forefront with its new streaming music player that allows users to take their music anywhere
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Before you apply to join the Peace Corps
ETC Editor Brett Williams relays what students should be aware of before deciding to commit to the Peace Corps.
By Brett Williams ETC EDITOR
Photo from CNET.com
Screenshot showing how the application automatically prompts you to include downloaded music into the Cloud Player library.
By Brett Williams ETC EDITOR
While Google’s Cloud still seems to be transparent and Windows’ hard to find Cloud hides amongst all the flashy applications on Windows 7, Amazon announced its new Cloud Player and leapt to the forefront of the Cloud technology arms race. We’ve been hearing about all the applications of Cloud technology for some time from major businesses and how it could potentially revolutionize every aspect of our lives, but haven’t really seen a practical service arise from all the hype until now. Amazon’s new Cloud Player is a music player that allows users to upload their music from their personal computers to Amazon’s servers and play them from the Web and their Android phones. Essentially, Amazon is allowing users to take their music anywhere. What’s best about the service is that its users are given five GB of storage space they can utilize with a free account. Aside from that, if Cloud Player users decide to purchase an album through Amazon, they’re afforded an additional 20 GB, then it only cost $1 per GB. Once users have signed up or signed in and chosen whether their accounts will be free or paid, they’ll be prompted to download the Cloud Music Player. Once it’s downloaded the player will automatically scan for music. If it can’t find any or if there’s too much to download, users will be prompted to manually choose which songs to include, but it isn’t a long process. However, depending on the number of tracks, downloading may take hours. The closest mainstream streaming
music services to this are how iTunes and Windows Media Player allow users to sync their devices to the platform in order to download songs directly into the phone. The drawback and advantage that Amazon has over these two is that each song users add to their phone or MP3 player deducts from the total amount of storage on that device. Please note, too, that the application requires that the Android its being downloaded to is running a minimum operating system of Android 1.6. Users can check their phones specifications to find this information. The only deduction of storage space users can expect to incur using Amazon’s Android app is what it’ll take to download and install the app to their phones. There are two ways to download the app on phones. After users have logged into their account, there is a barcode users’ phones can scan in order to access the phone application. If users don’t already have a barcode scanner installed on their phones, it’ll take downloading an additional app to get the Cloud Player, but there are plenty of quality barcode scanners that are free. Don’t expect a price there either. One recommended scanner is from QuickMark, an android app publisher, because their scanner includes the ability to scan from a webpage. This feature is especially useful because the barcode you must scan in order to download the app isn’t in the typical however many lines format. It looks like mesh and a QR type barcode scanner is needed. The only other way to download the app is to download the Amazon store app on your android as well. The app is free and seems to be a lot less hassle.
It also brings up another area Amazon will probably begin to excel in now by leaps and bounds. Their music library is littered with the latest albums by musicians for a price that’s competitive with what iTunes offers. The fall of file sharing sites like Limewire, should also do wonders for Amazon and artists especially if Taylor Swift’s album sales are any indication. The Cloud Player allows for downloading music without the restrictions of iTunes and offers users a convenience that Apple has probably been afraid to. The Cloud player also offers users the
Photo from CNET.com
Photo of the application used to download the Android Cloud Player application for most Android 1.6 Operating System Phones.
ability to upload photos and video at no extra cost. It sounds like a pretty sweet deal for consumers especially when you consider the fact that it’s only a matter of time before Google (which also backs Android) Windows and Apple up their technology and pricing to compete.
Photo from CNET.com A portion of the Peace Corps Global Jobs logo depicted in the flyer sent to the Department of Education and students at USA.
The University Commons played host to a Peace Corps application workshop Tuesday. For many people, the Peace Corps represents a viable employment opportunity. Because of its paid volunteer positions and generous benefits, the Peace Corps is an alternative many college students consider as well. Occasionally, the Peace Corps arranges to come to colleges offering testimonials from returned corps volunteers, informational sessions and workshops about completing their volunteer application. There’s a lot of possibilities for good that the Peace Corps points out, but there are also some “job hazards” out there. For the student keeping the Peace Corps on standby or as a last resort, the Peace Corps website has some safety information you should definitely brush up on before volunteering to serve and help. For instance, Peace Corps volunteers are sometimes placed in remote locations where they commit to serve 27 months of training and service overseas according to the Peace Corps website. Dreaming of using the Peace Corps to see the world? Be practical. While the site tells you that they’ll consider your geological preferences, accept that most likely you’ll go where they need you. There is other information interested students need be aware of and plenty of other things to consider before deciding whether to apply or not. Recruiters are extremely accommodating, so don’t be afraid to call or request that they call you. Outside of those things, there’s also always the alternative: living a boring life working a normal nine to five of
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Arts & Entertainment
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April 4, 2011
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Take Action Tour to hit Pensacola
Hopeless Records is bringing the Take Action Tour to Pensacola at the front end of May, and proceeds will benefit a sexual health education non-profit.
By Madison Murphy STAFF WRITER
Everyone loves a good concert, and who doesn’t feel good about helping out our generation? Hopeless Records has made it easy to do both with their 10th annual Take Action Tour. Fortunately for you, the nationwide tour is making a stop in Pensacola next month. The Take Action tour, has featured everyone from Jimmy Eat World to Avenged Sevenfold to Gym Class Heroes since its inception in 2002. This year, you can catch bands Polar Bear Club, The Swellers, Texas in July and co-headliners Silverstein and Bayside. The hype is already building for this year’s tour, which is sponsored by Hot Topic and Alternative Press magazine. “We’re really excited to be part of Take Action Tour because we’ve never been on a tour where part of the proceeds is going to charity, which is great,” Bayside’s bassist Nicholas Ghanbarian said. “We’re also super excited to be heading out on the road with some friends that we haven’t played with in years.” In the past, Take Action has showcased organizations that shed light on issues like suicide, cancer, and depression. This year, proceeds from each date benefit Sex, Etc., a non-profit seeking to improve sexual health education in teens and young adults. The award winning organization, which was started at Rutgers University, uses national publications and online communities to educate our generation about pregnancy, contraception, and more. The general admission tickets are only $18 and can purchased online at takeactiontour.com. So make plans to soak up some sun at the beach, grab a beer at McGuire’s Irish Pub, and hear some killer music at Phinea’s Phogg’s at Seville Quarter May 2. See you there.
Vegas-style Spring Fling happening this week By Samantha Andrews STAFF WRITER
USA has put its own spin on Vegas this year with the 2011 Spring Fling theme South Vegas. This year’s Spring Fling boasts six Vegas-style events taking place Monday, April 4 through Thursday, April 7. As the biggest production of the year, South Vegas will host events throughout the week to include a Vegas swing dance party, a giant Twister game, laser tag, a photo flipbook session, casino night and a music festival. To kick off the week, a former sponsor of the Swing Dance Club will be instructing students in the fast-paced world of swing dancing. From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday, a swing dance lesson will be given at the Student Center and for the last hour, students will be free to show off what they’ve learned on the dance floor. Couples and singles alike are welcomed to participate. Those without partners shouldn’t be afraid to come out and cut a little rug. “I would suggest everyone to come out,” said President of Jaguar Productions Christian Lee. “I’ve gone the past two years single and I’ve had a blast!” This event will provide free refreshments, a good time and some additional moves to anyone’s dancing arsenal. Spring Fling keeps going strong with both the giant game of Twister and the laser tag game premiering Tuesday. Twister will happen from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Student Center Amphitheater and prizes will be offered to the flexible few who can hold their balance in this massive game. Laser tag will be brought to the next level as “Jag Wars II: Attack of the Jags” takes over the Student Center Amphitheater on Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Throughout the night, teams will try to eliminate each other while maneuvering through an inflatable obstacle course. The photo flipbook session will be held Wednesday in the Student Center from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. It’s the chance to create your own flipbook. Photographers will take a sequence of pictures in order to create a booklet that when quickly flipped through, will reproduce whatever scenario was acted out. Costumes will be provided in order to perform the most creative scene possible. One booklet will be made per student ID. In true Vegas fashion, “Casino Night”
www.1940s.org
USA's Spring Fling is bound to get you through that dreaded late spring-semester slump with a schedule of activities including some peppy swing dancing lessons, a photo flipbook creation session and Casino Night.
will feature an array of games such as Roulette, Blackjack and Texas Hold’em. Wednesday, in the Student Center Ballroom from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., students will play like the pros to cash in their luck for prizes and enjoy refreshments from the “mocktail" bar. The South Vegas Spring Fling finishes its week with “Jag Jam”, which will play host to live bands on the Epsilon lawn Thursday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Free food and drinks will be available as three
different live acts take the stage that night. Local bands, Too Far From Amsterdam and The Port Wine Stain will be the first to perform, while the featured pop rock band from New York City, Lion of Ido, will conclude the night. The funding for Jaguar Productions events like this are sponsored though student activity fees. “We encourage students to come out and enjoy because it’s their fees at work,” Lee said.
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April 4, 2011
Planet
from page 12
lar orbit at all. If Nemesis was to blame for mass extinctions caused by astronomical events, those events should happen at random intervals, not like clockwork every 27 million years. The obvious issue here is why that same reasoning isn’t applied to Tyche: sure, the
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galaxy tide wouldn’t pull as much, but at that distance the tide’s effect should be a factor in the orbit of any large body. The existence of Tyche is still up in the air, but it may be discounted when physicists apply the same principle that discounts the Nemesis theory. Hopefully the data from the WISE will help shed some light on the subject.
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Sports
16
April 4, 2011
The
Vanguard Matt Weaver, Sports Editor sports.editor@usavanguard.com
www.usavanguard.com/sports
Linebacker pushes for perfection at South
Ryan Franklin Sports Columnist
By Matt Weaver
FROM THE PERIMETER
SPORTS EDITOR
Shaq refuses to pass torch There is no doubt that Shaquille O’Neal is one of the most dominant centers to ever step foot on an NBA court. Since 1992 the former first-round draft pick for the Orlando Magic has accomplished a lot in his illustrious career. His accomplishments range from four NBA championships, three Finals MVP awards, a regular season MVP award and has averaged a double-double throughout his nineteen year (and counting) tenure in the league. Shaq is also known for his ability to entertain both the crowd and the media with his unique style of comic relief. Fans are constantly amused by his antics, whether it is posing as a statue, having a dance-off with Justin Beiber or giving himself hundreds of nicknames such as: The Big Shamrock, Shaqovic, The Big Shaqtus and, his most notable title, Superman. But when Dwight Howard came into the league a few years ago as the next lovable big man, Shaq’s spotlight was stolen. Not only is Howard as dominant as Shaq during his Orlando tenure, he’s also quite the comedian. Howard openly jokes with the media, teammates and other players around the league. Shaq really took offense to Howard’s rising superstar-status. This proved especially true at the 2008 All-Star Game Dunk Contest when Howard ran out of a phone booth and onto the court with a Superman cape trailing behind. His breathtaking dunk earned Howard the title of Superman. But Shaq would have none of this. He was quick to defend his title as the original Superman, especially the battle between the Cleveland Cavilers and the Orlando Magic last year. The Cavs’ managed to squeeze out a victory against Howard and the Magic, but after the game, Shaq appeared unhappy despite the win. Shaq rebuked, “You tell me who the real Superman is.” That could be considered the angriest anyone has seen Shaq. He continued, “Don’t compare me to nobody. I’d rather not be mentioned. I’m offended.” Howard later mentioned he had no problem with Shaq, but he was blindsided by O’Neal’s remarks. “Well, I would say it doesn’t feel good when a guy like Shaq is talking bad about you, about a nickname as simple as Superman,” Howard expressed. Even though this passed a few years ago, you can still feel the tension on the court between Howard and Shaq. see SHAQ | 17
At 6’1, 210 lbs. Philip Press was born to play football. But at age 20 that’s not entirely how he sees it. Press is driven in everything he does and football just happens to be his current goal. Press was highly recruited out of West Florida High School and was sought after by Miami of Florida, the University of Connecticut and South Florida but Press had been on their radar long before high school. Press successfully played both football and basketball at the middle school level while in Pensacola. The South Alabama junior cites a sixth grade game-play as being the year he learned that he could play football at a heightened level. “It was in the closing seconds of a little league game and I stopped our opponents from getting into the endzone,” Press recalls. “We went to celebrate with pizza and I was given all the high fives and congratulations.” It’s this type of moment that defines the type of man that boys become. And in that moment young Press began the gradual change to the student-athlete that we know today. “It’s all about dedication, Press says.” From that moment on, Press became more dedicated to improving his craft. He played receiver and linebacker at West Florida where the game came easy but his time management did not. “I had a teacher, Mr. Brown, who pushed me to keep getting better,” Press said. “My grades were getting better after starting slow because he instilled discipline in me.” Playing for a struggling team didn’t help
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South Alabama linebacker Philip Press.
either. West Florida never finished above .500 during Press’ tenure and yet he never wavered in accomplishing his personal goals. Press had earned a good report with his coaching staff and as a result started to see increased attention on him by college recruiters. Press gained even more to prove. “It doesn’t matter if it’s my GPA, ability on the field, or my personal reputation -- I want to be better in all of it.
Recruited by South Alabama linebackers coach Kurt Crain, Press signed with the Jaguars. His decision came back to dedication to be the best. “I was really impressed by the football field house,” Press said. “I toured much larger schools that were not as dedicated to football. Our field house is one of the best, and in my opinion, equal to Auburn’s facility.” Press has had several role models in Mobile from the moment he arrived. “Brandon Ross and Courtney Smith really set a positive example with this team from the early get go,” Press said. “The same goes for Charlie Higgenbotham and Justin Dunn.” Press hasn’t reached the upper tier of the roster during his time at South Alabama but is always on the close outside of competing for more regular playing time. Press hopes that his work during the spring pays off during the upcoming season. “I feel good,” Press said. “Spring practice went really well. I focused heavily on the fundamentals like speed and strength, and working alongside our position coaches. We’re excited for the spring game and [next season].” Press is set to begin the 2011 season as a member of the linebacking corps and hopes to build on a season where he played in three games, notching two tackles and one yard lost. The Jaguars finished 17-0 to start their first two seasons of NCAA football. Season three will feature trips to Kent State, North Carolina State and matches against schools from each Bowl Championship Subdivision classification. South Alabama football is tentatively set to begin the 2011 season against West Alabama on Thursday, Sept. 1. Start times are yet to be determined.
MLB to have surprise stories in 2011 By Matt Weaver SPORTS EDITOR
The San Francisco Giants shocked the world by winning the World Series in 2010. They really should have been a trendier championship pick. Make no mistake, the Giants are going to contending in 2011 but they are not repeating as World Series Champions. In fact, they won’t even make it back to the Fall Classic. That spot is already booked by the trendiest of picks in the Philadelphia Phillies. While obvious predictions are always so cliché, there’s only one way of looking at the 2011 World Series and that’s with Philadelphia back on top. In most card games, four aces trump almost any hand and that’s exactly what the Phillies have in Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Roy Oswalt and Cole Hamels. The Phillies will defeat the Boston Red Sox in five games and that’s all there is to it. But what of the lesser-known stories? You don’t need The Vanguard to tell you that Joe Mauer and Albert Pujols are
MVP-candidates or that Halladay and C.C. Sabathia are the front-runners for the Cy Young Award. Instead, we’re going to tell you the stories that you won’t see coming, like the hapless Pittsburgh Pirates: Pittsburgh Pirates – Seriously. Mired in a 16-season long slump, the Pirates have stockpiled a MLB Draft all-star team. This is the year they finally start paying dividends on a Major League roster. With young offense talent like Garrett Jones and Andrew McCutchen, Pittsburgh’s lineup finally packs a powerful punch. Unfortunately, they may have to outhit a starting rotation filled with arms that barely rate above major league swingmen. Yet hang in there Pirates Fans, your team plays in a lackluster National League Central and may have just enough talent to last until the trade deadline. Baltimore Orioles – The Orioles and the Toronto Blue Jays were never meant to contend in the 21st Century. Facing the super-savvy Tampa Bay Rays and financially loaded Yankees and Red Sox a fourth of a season is never a win-
ning formula. And yet, the Orioles will find success in 2011. They added first baseman Derrek Lee and DH Vladimir Guerrero during the winter and return budding stars Adam Jones and Felix Pie. The Orioles are just a few developments away from having their most complete lineup in years. But like the Pirates, the Orioles pitching could hold them back. The Orioles are going to need some luck to go with the talent but they are close. Tampa Bay Rays – Is this even going out on a limb anymore? The Rays have dispelled Billy Beane and the Moneyballminded Athletics as the most-intelligent office in baseball. Despite losing starting pitcher Matt Garza (Cubs) and outfielder Carl Crawford (Red Sox), the Rays are still going to contend in the American League East. One time ace James Shield should rebound from a sub-par 2010 and a motivated Manny Ramirez could shift the balance of power in that division. Don’t sleep on the Rays.
The
SPORTS
Vanguard
April 4, 2011
17
Sports Briefs Track and Field Post Personal-Best Marks at Tiger Tracks Invitational
Shaq
from page 16
I like O’Neal, but he has been in the league for almost two decades with six different teams and has already left quite a legacy. I’m sure everyone who followed his career is grateful for what he has done on the court, but I think he needs to take off his Nikes and finally hang up his jersey. He has been injured for most of the sea-
son and has lightly contributed to the Celtic defense, which has quickly fallen apart due to a bad trade that sent Kendric Perkins to the Oklahoma City Thunder for Jeff Green and Nenad Kristic. The Celtics still have Shaq and are hoping for a rebound playoff run out of the future Hall-of-Famer. It makes no sense for Shaq to stay in the league when his skills are rapidly declining. While it's hard to give up the spotight to a
group of kids he doesn't like, the time is ripe for Shaq to put up or shut up. It's becoming very likely that Boston's playoff run will be short and disappointing making Shaq's decision easier. But it seems he refuses to retire despite having no gas left in the tank. I sense a Brett Favre repeat with Shaq, so thanks for all the memories, but it’s time to pass the torch.
NBA MVP Race
Anton Graphenreed finished first collegiately, fourth overall, in the men’s 200-meter dash and Shannon Stever placed second in the women’s pole vault to lead the University of South Alabama track and field team in the final day of the Tiger Track Classic held in Auburn on Saturday. Graphenreed posted a personal-best mark of 21.53 seconds in the 200-meter, while also placing fifth collegiately and sixth overall in the 100-meter run in a time of 10.67 seconds. Stever took second on a pole vault mark of 3.70 meter (12-01.50). Saber Salah ran a personal-best time of 8:22.32 in the men’s 3,000-meter run and Dominique Blue notched seventh place in the men’s long jump on a personal-best mark of 6.86 meter (22-06.25). The Jaguars will return to action when the school plays host to the two-day USA Invitational, which will begin Friday. Jaguar Softball Splits Doubleheader Versus Middle Tennessee
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Miami Heat forward LeBron James, Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose, and Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard are the leadings candidates for the NBA's Most Valuable Player Award. Rose is considered the top choice and has led Chicago to the top-seeded position in the Eastern Conference.
Chicago’s Rose leading MVP race By Jake Wasdin SPORTS REPORTER
As the NBA regular season draws towards its end, the Most Valuable Player Award race continues. The MVP is given out at the end of the season before the playoffs commence. The award indicates leadership on and off the court, dedication, and hard work. As of now three superstars are competing for the MVP title: Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose, Miami Heat forward LeBron James, and Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard. Many people can argue that each one of these players deserve it, but Derrick Rose is running away with the trophy. Rose is the Bulls’ point guard and team leader. Averaging 25.0 points per contest Rose is the Bulls leading scorer and leading the team in assist with 7.9 per game. His defense may be sub-par compared to other guards, but a lot of that can be attributed to his 22 years of age. Good things happen when Rose is on the floor. With a quick first step off the dribble,
Rose’s reverse layup is something that deserves ESPN Top 10 recognition, but his dunks really awe audiences. Rose has gotten recognition as MVP from James and even legendary Bulls Hall-of-Famer, Michael Jordan. Without Rose, the Bulls are not sitting at the number one spot in the Eastern Conference. Dwight Howard is hovering just behind Rose in this race. His Orlando Magic team rests in the fourth spot due to “Superman’s” actions. Howard is averaging 23.1 points and 14.2 rebounds, while leading the league in rebounds and top five in dunks and blocks. Let us face the facts, without Dwight Howard, the Magic are a low seed in the playoffs if they had even made it at all. Howard’s gains on offense are evident after spending his summer perfecting his shooting fundamentals. His defense is spectacular, but Howard faces significant foul trouble o a consistent basis. Howard’s defense, along with a new arsenal of offensive moves, gives him a more complete game than his MVP rivals offer.
LeBron James has fallen to third overall in the MVP race. The Heat are finally firing on all cylinders and are ready for the playoffs. It’s no secret that the Heat hit a bump in the road, but they are cruising now. Without LeBron, the Heat are still a playoff team with Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh in the lineup. LeBron’s 26.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.0 assists are impressive, but the most valuable player is crucial to his team. The Heat would still win games and have a spot in the playoffs, but the Eastern Conference teams with .500 records and below are still making the playoffs. LeBron deserves an honorable mention, but he’s just not deserving to repeat as league MVP. With a couple games left in the season, the suspense will continue to grow surrounding the MVP award, but this race looks over as Rose and Chicago hold the top spot in the East. While the media may claim Rose as the early MVP, it’s not over until the final buzzer sounds. The other candidates still have time to catch Rose and the top-seeded Bulls.
The University of South Alabama softball team split its doubleheader Saturday afternoon against Middle Tennessee falling 3-1 in the opener, but led by Hannah Campbell’s first career no-hitter helped the Jags pick up an 8-0 shutout victory in game two at Blue Raider Field. The no-hitter was the second of the season for the Jags and the fifth in programhistory. The Jags improved to 26-7 overall and 6-2 in Sun Belt action, while MTSU moved to 11-22 and 5-9 in conference play. “Overall we didn’t play very well in the first game,” USA head coach Becky Clark said. “We are a better team than how we played in the first game. We regrouped in between games and did what we needed to do to get the win in the second game.” Despite taking the loss, sophomore pitcher Morgan Druhan (8-3) pitched well, striking out nine batters in the opener, holding MTSU to just three runs. She also did not allow a hit through the first three innings. Haley Richards led the Jags at the plate with a 2-for-2 performance. Meghan Collins and Haley Hopkins also each recorded one hit a piece. Collins scored the Jaguars only run of the contest. Baseball Drops Two of Three to Middle Tennessee Will Skinner hit a two-run walk-off home run in the bottom of the 10th inning to lead Middle Tennessee to a 13-11 series-clinching win over University of South Alabama baseball Sunday afternoon at Reese Smith Jr. Field. Paris (1-2) suffered the loss in 1 2/3 innings in relief, allowing two runs on three hits with one strikeout. Facing a 11-9 deficit heading into its last at-bat, South Alabama tied the game on solo home runs to right field by Jordan Patterson and Brad Hook off of Middle Tennessee right-hander Paul Mittura. Cody Tollison (1-1) earned the win in 1 1/3 innings of scoreless relief for the Blue Raiders. -Wire Reports
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April 4, 2011
Distractions
The
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www.usavanguard.com/distractions
Caption Contest
Do hilarious things come to mind when you see this photo? E-mail your funniest caption to editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com. The winner will be published in the next edition!
Have an idea for Distractions? E-mail Editor-in-Chief Daniela Werner at usavanguard.editor@Gmail.com.
Caption Contest Results
Winner: “But the ad promised a cute Japanese masseuse.” -Randolph Hunter Runner up: “Eat this, Blake Griffin.” -Matthew Schmidt
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Jag Life
April 4, 2011
A Comic by Ben Lewis
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