April 14, 2014 Vanguard

VANGUARD THE

INSIDE

Free speech USA ranked 3rd in drug arrests lawsuit filed I against USA

By CATHERINE BUTTREY Contributing Writer

► JagLife: USA theater legend to retire, “The Tempest” opens.

See JagLife, page 5

► JagLife: Bartered Bride: a challenging opera that is sure to please.

See JagLife, page 7

► Sports: Men’s Tennis clinches wins.

See Sports, page 10

► Opinion: Is our cellphone dependence getting out of hand?

VOL. 54, NO. 13

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

APRIL 14, 2014

By STEPHANIE FEATHER Managing Editor

T

he Students for Life organization filed a lawsuit Thursday, April 3 against the University for limiting the organization’s rights to have an anti-abortion demonstration in an area other than the designated “free speech” zone.

The organization, a pro-life group of students, followed the procedure spelled out in the student handbook, The Lowdown, to arrange a display called the “Cemetery of Innocents” to discuss its anti-abortion views on campus. A cemetery of innocents consists of small crosses placed in the ground in a confined area to represent lives lost due to abortion.

In October 2013, Students for Life requested permission to host the display in an empty lot at the corner of University Boulevard and Old Shell Road. The organization was granted permission to use the designated 3,600-square-foot “free speech” zone near the student center.

Shelby Hall is located at the corner of the same streets and houses the College of Engineering. Dr. John Steadman is the dean of the College of Engineering and was designated to make the decision for the use of the space in accordance to “Lowdown” policy. Steadman denied the organization’s application.

The lawsuit states that Steadman denied the application because it “advocates for a position that involves political and social controversy.”

In February, the organization applied again to use the area in front of Shelby Hall. According to the lawsuit, the area would allow the group to express its anti-abortion message not only to students on campus, but also the wider Mobile community.

The organization has commenced a

See Opinion, page 14 find us on Facebook search “The Vanguard USA”

n a recent article about college campus drug arrest numbers in Alabama, found on AL.com, the University of South Alabama reported 74 drug arrests between 2009 and 2011, placing USA at third for the most drug arrests in the state.

Of course, there are many things to take into consideration. For one, these numbers are from three to five years ago. In addition, “There does not appear to be any consideration for differences in size of institution, residential population or location,” USAPD Officer Keith West said. This means that, if you look at the big picture, 74 drug arrests over a three-year period in a densely populated area isn’t as bad as, say, 11 drug arrests at a college with about 800 students. Seen in this light, the efforts of the University of South Alabama Police Department and the department’s focus on the drug front should be noted.

The University is known for its zero tolerance policy when it comes to the sale and distribution of drugs, on or off campus, and throughout the years, the USAPD has vigorously enforced that policy. “We are using all of our resources to combat these drug problems,”

USA Chief of Police Zeke Aull stated. “It is especially a priority for us because students and parents have expressed their desire to eliminate this behavior, which is unconducive to an educational environment.”

Aull also made clear that most of these arrests are actually made because of tips from students. These calls, and now even texts, sent into the police station reporting suspicious or conspicuous behavior could be widely associated with the department’s advertisement of the “see something, say something” strategy that is conveyed and promoted to students on campus in particular.

The USA Police Department includes 33 sworn law enforcement officers and seven support personnel, each of whom is dedicated to the protection of all University students, employees and visitors. Upon reviewing the stats provided by the department on recent drug arrests made by the USAPD, the successful endeavors of these enforcement officers are made apparent. These stats could even be considered an immense display of the diligent efforts regarding aggressively fronting problems See Arrests Page 2

USA Track hosts invitational Track and field teams earn 9 victories, set record

See Page 11

See Lawsuit Page 2 ALYSSA NEWTON | SPORTS EDITOR

Check out our digital edition thevanguardonline.com

In this Issue: Sports, Page 8 Opinion, Page 13

JagLife, Page 5

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VOL. 54, NO. 13 / APR. 14, 2014

Alabama college drug arrests Lawsuit Continued from Page One

Total 217

78

74

65

48

46

33

30

28

25

STAFF ILLUSTRATION

Arrests Continued from Page One

of public concern.

When evaluating these arrests made on account of drug distribution or possession, it is important to note a variety of factors.

While the majority of the ar-

rests involved students, “if you look at our statistical data,” Aull said, “not all stats will include students, but rather just arrests in the area made by our department.” In addition, both Aull and West agreed that the majority of these arrests were made on counts of possession of marijua-

na or marijuana paraphernalia. It is also commonplace for officers to make arrests because of possession of prescription drugs.

If you “see something, (then) say something” by calling or texting in to the USA Police Department, and help to keep our campus a safe learning environment.

civil action lawsuit against defendants Dr. Tony G Waldrop, University president; Dr. John Smith, vice president for student affairs; Dr. Michael Mitchell, assistant vice president for student affairs and dean of students; and Steadman.

The lawsuit was filed with the Mobile, Ala., federal court, and claims the University violated its First and 14th Amendment rights.

The organization is being represented by David J. Hacker with Alliance Defending Freedom.

Hacker said that the officials were named in their capacity as decision makers on behalf of the University.

According to the lawsuit, if the organization’s members were not limited by the policy and the defendants, they would distribute flyers about the effects of abortion on our society and would display a cemetery of innocents.

They have not done so for fear of arrest or punishment.

Hacker said that the University’s attorneys have been in contact, and he is hopeful that they will reach an agreement without having to proceed into full litigation.

“It’s important to keep in mind that even though Students for Life were (sic) granted permission to use the free speech zone, the problem is that they are limited,” Hacker said. “The University can’t have restrictions. Outdoor areas are supposed to be open as long as it’s not disruptive.”

In a statement to Fox10, Bob Lowry, the director of public relations for the University, said, “The University of South Alabama encourages the free and open exchange of ideas. We are reviewing the complaint recently filed. Due to the ongoing litiga-

“

tion, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.”

The Vanguard contacted all officials named in the lawsuit.

Steadman said that he told the organization that he would not approve the activity at Shelby Hall, but “the University encourages freedom of expression and they should contact Dr. Mitchell.”

Steadman said that he told Mitchell the “organization should be contacting his office to have this activity done in an approved area of the campus (the free speech zone).”

When Mitchell was asked about this lawsuit, he said, “I cannot comment at this time.” The Vanguard received no response from the office of the president.

The Foundation for Individual Rights in Education says about six in 10 colleges nationwide have policies that violate First Amendment rights, and about one in six imposes “free speech zones,” even though restrictions rarely survive constitutional challenges.

A similar lawsuit is taking place in Virginia where lawyers are negotiating a settlement in the case of a student who was barred from preaching on campus. According to The Associated Press article published April 12, the Virginia Community College System has agreed to suspend its student demonstrations policy in response to a lawsuit filed by Thomas Nelson Community College student Christian Parks. Both sides have asked a federal judge in Norfolk to put the case on hold until May 2 while a new policy and settlement details are negotiated.

Parks has the same representation as the pro-life organization, Hacker and the Christian legal advocacy organization Alliance Defending Freedom. The case at USA may have similar results to the one in Virginia.

USA’S POLICY ON SPEAKERS AND DEMONSTRATIONS

USA reserves the right to require that speakers, scheduled and unscheduled, sponsored and unsponsored, use the areas around the Student Center in order to avoid disruption of the normal function of the University and to assure the flow of vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Demonstrations, speeches, and debates will be held around the Student Center unless the Vice President for Student Affairs is able to coordinate another appropriate campus location no less than three working days prior to the event.

”

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VOL. 54, NO. 13 / APR. 14, 2014

“University of South Alabama’s Student Voice”

Weather for April 14 - 20

Editorial Editor in Chief Managing Editor Copy Editor Opinion Editor Sports Editor JagLife Editor Web Editor Staff Reporters

Samantha Andrews

Stephanie Feather Meg Lundberg Jordan Knox Alyssa Newton Matthew Strickland Matthew Strickland

Samuel Brown Jenna Munday

Distribution

Distribution Bobby Faulk Alan Smith

Advertising Advertising Justine Burbank Graphic Designer Ryan Keller Sheldon Hall Promotions Director Jaclyn LeBatard

Management Advising J. Sellers J. Aucoin Accounting Kathy Brannan

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

Send letters and guest columns to: The Vanguard University of South Alabama P.O. Drawer U-1057 Mobile, Ala., 36688.

Or thevanguardeditor@gmail.com Letters and guest columns must be received by 7 p.m. on the Wednesday prior to the Monday publication. Submissions should be typed and must include the writer’s name, year, school and telephone number. All submissions become the property of The Vanguard. 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 All members of the Editorial Board have the same weight. The Vanguard has a commitment to accuracy and clarity and will print any corrections or clarifications. To report a mistake, e-mail thevanguardeditor@gmail.com. The Vanguard is published Mondays during the academic year, except for exam periods and vacations, and is published twice each summer. The Vanguard is supported in part by an allocation from student activity fees and operates in the Student Media Department of the Division of Student Affairs.

Issues are available at most University buildings and select off-campus locations. The first copy is free. Additional copies are $1 each. Freelance writers will receive payment at the discretion of the section editor and will be notified.

LEAVE COMMENTS FOR CAMPUS AT thevanguardonline.com/campusfeedback

PATRICK BIGBIE | STAFF METEOROLOGIST

Twitter: StormTeam4g9wx Facebook: Facebook.com/StormTeam4Gamma9Wx

USAPD Police Blotter 04/08/2014 02:40 Driving under the influence of alcohol Old Shell Road A non-student was stopped for improper lane usage and subsequently arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

He was transported to Mobile County Metro Jail and issued three citations.

04/05/2014 03:28 Criminal trespass third degree Kappa Alpha fraternity Student was arrested for criminal trespassing.

04/05/2014 01:05 Driving under the influence of marijuana and minor in possession of alcohol Officers arrested an individual for driving under the influence and possession of alcohol on campus. The driver was transported to Mobile County Metro Jail.

04/03/2014 08:04 Unlawful breaking and entering a vehicle The Grove A vehicle was broken into in the parking lot of The Grove.

Damage valued $300, and merchandise valued $50.

04/03/2014 03:28 Intentionally or recklessly causing physical harm to any person.

Two roommates were involved in a physical altercation leading to injuries including broken bones.

04/03/2014 14:23 Theft of article from auto The Grove Victim reported that $2 was stolen from their vehicle.

03/29/2014 23:25 Burglary third degree Gamma 4 Resident reported his watch, valuing $200, stolen from his dorm room.

03/29/2014 16:14 Theft property third degree Delta 5 bike rack A bicycle seat, valuing $40, was stolen from a bicycle while locked at the Delta 5 bicycle rack.

03/29/2014 01:06 Driving under the influence South Drive and University Boulevard Non-student was stopped for an improper turn and subsequently arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. She was transported to Mobile County Metro Jail and issued two citations.

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VOL. 54, NO. 13 / APR. 14, 2014

Q: What CAMPUS ISSUES are you most interested in pursuing? Q: What’s something interesting that most people DON’T KNOW about you? love to see better campus and student involvement. We are giving A: I am a College Advisor for a high school organization in Mobile. The A: Iourwould tuition money to USA, so we might as well utilize it. Another thing I organization consists of 80+ girls between the ages of 13-18. The organiwould like to see happen is SGA getting more involved with the student body, other than through appropriations.

zation teaches the girls how to present themselves as young ladies, and how to maintain a good reputation.

Q: Your iconic HAIRSTYLE is a big part of your look. Does it take long to fix?

Q: What do you like to do for FUN when you’re not involved with SGA? Thank you for the compliment. It usually takes me about 5-10 minutes to A: do my hair. It is more of a “shake and go” type of style. I cut it a month ago A: I enjoy getting together with a big 47group of friends and watching because I really needed a change, so cutting my hair was the first step. episodes of Scandal, while being complete “goofballs.”

Interview with 2014-15 SGA President Danielle Watson You seemed to have been really close to CHRISTOPHER THOMAS. Q: What Q: Tell us a little bit about your FAMILY. kind of influence did he have on you and did he have anything to I love my family!

With me being the only girl out of three, I am a big do with you running for SGA president?

A: daddy’s girl. I enjoy being able to spend time with my family, whenever Christopher Thomas meant a lot to me, especially when it came to my time permits. With them being so far away in Chicago, it is hard for me to A: campaign. We sat in my office for four plus hours straight planning out my be able to spend quality with them, but we talk at least three times a day.

They are very supportive of everything that I do, and always encouraging me to do great things.

campaign, and became so excited for the next week to come, to start our election journey. Unfortunately, that next day he passed away. It took a lot out of me, to even push through the elections, but I knew that I had to do it for him. He knew that this was something that I have been working hard to get, and he just wanted to see me succeed.

Q: What EXPERIENCE makes you feel confident in your ability to lead SGA? reason why I felt very confident in order to lead SGA was my exA: Once perience with planning and organizing Higher Education Day. It took a Q: What’s been your FAVORITE CLASS at USA and why? lot of planning and dedication in order to get the job done. It also taught EMS 440 course with Chief Morgan. He makes the course very interestA: My me great leadership and communication skills. ing, and he is one of the reasons why I am in the major that I have chosen.

Student Health would like to welcome Candyce Morris, WHNP

Candyce Morris, WHNP is now accepting appointments.

Specializing in Women’s Health GYN services, STI screening and Contraceptive Counseling (251) 460- 7151 Student Health TRP III Bldg Suite 1200 off USA North Drive

LEAVE COMMENTS FOR JAGLIFE AT thevanguardonline.com/lifefeedback

jagLIFE

MATTHEW STRICKLAND JAGLIFE EDITOR mattstrickland93@gmail.com

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VOL. 54, NO. 13 / APR. 14, 2014

USA theater legend to retire

By MARY BETH LURSEN Contributing Writer

T

he last play William Shakespeare ever wrote was “The Tempest.”

It’s fitting that Dr. Leon Van Dyke, chair of USA’s drama department, chose this play to be the last one he will ever direct while serving as chair.

“I don’t ever really think anything is the last,” Van Dyke said. “I sort of have that denial.”

Whether or not Van Dyke thinks this is the last, “The Tempest” definitely capped off an amazing theatrical year for the department.

Shakespeare’s version of “The Tempest” follows the story of a lord named Prospero and his daughter, Miranda. Prospero fled his homeland with his daughter because Prospero was to be persecuted for his use of magic. He’s held onto this grudge for many years and seeks revenge against those who wronged him. The play follows him as he lets go of his grudge

and revenge.

“It makes so many statements about how the heart can go wrong when you hang onto hate,” Van Dyke said about the play.

In Shakespeare’s times, most roles were played by men, but this has been updated in recent renditions, as seen in South’s version. Prospero is now Prospera and is a woman. Gwendolyn McCann-Mulamba, a faculty member of the department, portrayed the character of Prospera. She commanded the stage as Prospera, striking fear into the audience with her anger.

She was a force to be reckoned with in every moment she was onstage.

Ashley Davis played Miranda, and she acted the part of an innocent girl so well that the audience was left hoping she found the answers she seeked.

Perhaps one of the best characters was Ariel, a spirit who helps Prospera in her quest for revenge. Gabrielle Brou nailed this role, managing to be playful, tactful and caring in a way that made it nearly impossible to dislike her.

PHOTOS BY SAM ANDREWS | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Dr. Leon Van Dyke, chair of USA’s drama department, is inducted as an honorary member of Alpha Psi Omega, the theatre honor society.

events this week

April

16

Umphrey’s McGee concert Saenger Theatre 8 p.m. $25 per ticket V-Day Special Guest 6 p.m.

Student Center Ballroom $5 for students 90% of proceeds benefit Mobile Rape Crisis Center

“I liked it because Ariel is such a neat character,” Brou said. “She’s very free and fun. She’s so unique.”

Brou was just one of the cast members who provided comedy in “The Tempest.”

Will Ballard and Zachary Fitzgibbon, who portrayed Trinculo and Stefan respectively, also made the audience chuckle. These two characters spent the majority of the play drunk, and Ballard and Fitzgibbon played them in a way that left the audience laughing.

These characters are just a few who were portrayed excellently. The entire cast did an excellent job of telling this story.

After the cast members took their final bow, McCann-Mulamba asked that Van Dyke come down since this was his last opening night. The crowd stood in a standing ovation as he took the stage. He was then inducted as an honorary member of Alpha Psi Omega, the theatre honor society. Kristina Walter gave Van Dyke a pin and closed the show with “We love you” to Van Dyke.

“Our joy is just making it like a spark,” Van Dyke said. “It dazzles for a little while, and then it’s gone. That’s what we’re supposed to be doing.”

Van Dyke and the drama department certainly succeeded with this endeavor, not only with “The Tempest,” but also throughout the whole year. While Van Dyke is well-loved by the department and will certainly be missed, there’s no doubt that the drama department will thrive once again next season.

17

Crawfish Boil The Grove 2 - 6 p.m.

V-Day Performance 6 p.m.

Student Center Ballroom $5 for students 90% of proceeds benefit Mobile Rape Crisis Center Theatre “The Tempest” 7:30 p.m.

Laidlaw Tickets: 251-460-6306

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Theatre “The Tempest” 7:30 p.m.

Laidlaw Tickets: 251-460-6306

19

Theatre “The Tempest” 7:30 p.m.

Laidlaw Tickets: 251-460-6306

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Easter Sunday

Announce your events here!

Email event details to mattstrickland93@gmail.com

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VOL. 54, NO. 13 / APR. 14, 2014

Silkscreening ARS 253 An introduction to silkscreen printing as a fine art form.

3cr

Acting for NonMajors DRA 115 Non-majors interactively learn of the dicipline of acting as both an observer and a performer.

3cr Social Factors in Sexual Behavior SY 200 An analysis of sexual behavior, gender differences in sexual behavior, sexual orientation, sexual violence, teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

3cr Campus Recreation LS 297 Planning, organization and leadership of intramural and community sports.

3cr

Color Theory ARS 326 A studio course in the nature, theory and application of color in an aesthetic context.

3cr

Makeup DRA 210 A study of the materials and techniques of theatrical makeup.

1cr Hitler and Nazi Germany HY 348 The rise to power of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party in Germany and the history of National Socialist Germany from 1933 to 1945.

3cr Cryptography MA 481 An intro to classical and modern methods of message encryption and decryption.

3cr

Divorce Mediation CED 563 Legal, ethical and psychological issues in the divorce mediation process will be examined.

3cr

Gender and Criminal Justice CJ 372 Women’s roles as criminals, crime victims and law enforcement officials will be examined.

3cr

Japanese History in Film and Literature LG 284 This course will introduce students to samurai culture, Westernization, the postwar family, ‘60s radicalism and recent popular culture.

3cr

Witchcraft and Magic in Medieval and Early Modern Europe HY 343 The history of practices concerning witches and magic in Medieval and Early Modern Europe.

3cr

History of Alabama HY 376 A survey of the state’s history since the days of the Native Americans.

3cr

The History of Mobile SY 200 The History of Mobile from its foundings to its Tercentenary.

3cr

Man and Technology PHL 334 Examines the impacts that technology is envisioned to have on both the spirit of the human person and the environment in which that person lives.

3cr

Sociology of Drugs SY 319 This course examines social, historical, cultural and political factors that shape ideas about drugs, drug treatment and drug policy.

3cr

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VOL. 54, NO. 13 / APR. 14, 2014

Bartered Bride: a challenging opera that is sure to please

By RYAN WALLACE Contributing Writer

I

n the last weekend of April, the USA Opera Theatre will premiere its performance of Bedrich Smetana’s “The Bartered Bride.” Although Smetana was Czech (and therefore “The Bartered Bride” was originally composed in Czech), the USA Opera Theatre will be performing the work in English, with the assistance of supertitles to assist the audience in following the action on stage.

“The Bartered Bride” is the story of Mařenka, a young, comely Czech woman who must balance the demands of her family against her own desires. Although Mařenka’s parents are determined to marry her off to the well-to-do Vašek, son of a prominent landowner in the area, Mařenka loves another, named Jenik. What follows over three acts is a comedy of plot twists, bargains and intrigue.

The USA Opera Theatre will have three performances of “The Bartered Bride,” April 25, 26 and 27. The Friday and Saturday per-

formances will be at 7:30 p.m., while the Sunday performance will be at 3 p.m. All three of the performances will take place in the Laidlaw Recital Hall at the Laidlaw Performing Arts Center on the USA campus. Interested students may purchase advance tickets to any of the performances in the music offices (Room 1072 at Laidlaw) from 4-6 p.m.

Monday through Thursday.

The offering of advance tickets is a new practice for the USA Opera Theatre, and one that the students and faculty involved in the performance are happy to begin, according to Dr. Thomas Rowell, voice professor and director for the performance.

“We turned away almost a full audience for (last year’s performance of) ‘The Pirates of the Penzance.’ So this year, we’re doing three performances instead of two, and we’re selling advance tickets,” Rowell said.

Rowell is also quick to praise the student performers in “The Bartered Bride.” “This opera takes a lot of work. We began casting in October and practicing in January,” he said.

Rowell singled out the challenges faced by the singer playing Vašek, senior vocal performance major Garrett Torbert. “Garrett is doing a really great job playing the brother Vašek, who is a stutterer in an opera role, to have to stutter...and Garrett has mastered it.”

Torbert admits that it has not been an easy role to learn. “It has been a little tough for my role,” Torbert said. “I really have had to practice a legit stutter. I have been listening to a couple of people via YouTube and other resources to help in the process.”

Torbert also echoed his director’s praise for the other performers in the opera, saying, “The opera itself is not an easy opera. It is rather challenging and the cast knows this, but so far that hasn’t kept them from creating their characters and making music. It’s the sense of drive and motivation that this cast has that makes this production very special.”

Rowell and Torbert are both also adamant that “The Bartered Bride” is a quality experience for any student at South. From heartfelt love scenes to comic

COURTESY OF WIKI COMMONS

Original Czech poster for Bedrich Smetana’s “The Bartered Bride.” relief to student-performed circus tricks, Rowell insists that the opera holds something for everyone. “It’s a very lighthearted opera and it’s just fun,” he said.

“There’re some really talented kids in this opera that are going to have major operatic careers, and the students should come see them!”

Fantástico members inducted into honor society

MATTHEW STRICKLAND | JAGLIFE EDITOR

Associate professor of French Dr. Mihaela Marin lights one of the candles representing the five core languages of the honor society.

By MARY BETH LURSEN Contributing Writer

O

n Friday, April 11, 14 new members were inducted into the Chi Omega chapter of the Phi Sigma Iota (PSI) foreign language and literature

honor society. Justine Burbank, Nancy Calhoun, Amy Chiou, George Colbourne, Kim Colley, Lydia Guion, Courtney Kaiser, Scarlett Lara Alcantara, Sarah Meeker, James Mozur, Tracy Terpening, Joseph Thielen, Khanh Trinh and Kristi Williams were granted membership based on their

achievement in at least one foreign language at the university level.

“I think that learning a foreign language is a valuable experience,” Sarah Meeker, sophomore foreign language major, said. “I am proud to be a part of an organization that promotes the study of foreign languages and cultures.”

The program, hosted by chapter president Nick Knaebel, included recognition of Dr. Isabel Z. Brown for her service as the foreign language and literature department chair. The event also featured a lively presentation by Dr. Federico Perez Pineda, associate professor of foreign languages and literature at USA, and Ms. Mirella Chavez, head of foreign languages at UMS-Wright Preparatory School. The presentation, titled “Spirituality as Cosmopolitanism: Finding the World on El Camino de Santiago,” followed the professors on their 28-day walking pilgrimage in Spain.

During the event, the honor society announced the winners of their inaugural high school essay contest. Panels of PSI members and professors from the department judged the 19 submissions in French,

German and Spanish. Entrants were asked to write an essay based on their interpretation of the theme “walls.”

“The word 'university' includes in it the word 'universe,' and the ultimate objective of any center of higher education is to produce good global citizens,” Dr. Zoya Khan, PSI faculty adviser, said. “The USA chapter of Phi Sigma Iota wants to serve the university by helping it promote this goal not only on campus but also in the larger Mobile community.”

Duy Do of Davidson High School was awarded the top prize in German, Andrew Beeco of Alabama School of Math and Science won for Spanish, and Antonio Esposito of Davidson High School won for French. The winner in each category received a gift card for Bonefish Grill and a gift card for the USA Bookstore.

“The overwhelmingly positive response to the contest has encouraged society members to make it into an annual event,” Khan said, “and in this way, to further emphasize our university’s stewardship in spurring the study of world languages, cultures and literatures in the Gulf Coast region.”

LEAVE COMMENTS FOR SPORTS AT thevanguardonline.com/sportsfeedback

SPORTS

ALYSSA NEWTON SPORTS EDITOR akn1104@jagail.southalabama.edu

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VOL. 54, NO. 13 / APR. 14, 2014

Follow us for news, updates and play-by-play tweets: @USAVGSports Chloe Rathburn @Chloerathburn Second baseman The closest this girl will every get to being country is the farmers tan I get on my arms from my softball uniform.

Amanda Minahan @ MandaMiniVan Infielder ALYSSA NEWTON | SPORTS EDITOR

Jarrod Kedzior, Adam Patterson and Jeff Long were honored at the final home track meet this past Saturday.

Senior throwers find friendship through track Three Ohioan natives share laughs, jokes and a mutual passion for track and field ALYSSA NEWTON Sports Editor

F

riendships are one of the strongest bonds people can form. In the world of athletics, it is a bond that is shared with teammates and even opponents. Sometimes these bonds are so apparent, you can sense them in moments.

That is the case for South Alabama track and field seniors, Jarrod Kedzior, Adam Patterson and Jeff Long. From the moment the three are placed at a table together, you can guarantee that the trio will have you laughing until you cry with all the stories they have accumulated through the past few years.

They have been best friends during their time together at South Alabama, and have endless inside jokes and stories that usually include embarrassing each other.

The three Ohioan throwers all started their careers at separate high schools. Through coach Paul Brueske and fate-like coincidences, the three became part of the reason they attended South Alabama. Long was the first to be recruited to become a Jaguar.

“I chose South because I had the opportunity to get out of my small town and experience something new,” Long said. “I was lucky enough to have Coach Brueske recruit me for track.”

Unbeknownst to Long, this encouraged Kedzior to follow suit.

“I chose South Alabama after another school I committed to took back the scholarship they offered to me,” Kedzior said. “I saw Jeff (Long) had committed to South, and I sent a recruit questionnaire in to Coach Brueske a few days later. He contacted me, and I visited the campus in May 2009 and committed shortly after.”

Patterson and Kedzior went to grade school together before attending their respective high schools and competing against each other in shot put. Being a year younger than Kedizior, Patterson was a senior during Kedizor’s first year at South Alabama,

and Kedizor contacted him to visit South Alabama.

Once all three were Jaguars, the friendship came naturally.

“Jarrod (Kedzior) and I competed against each other in high school,” Patterson said. “I didn’t know Jeff (Long), but we connected when he came to one of my track meets (and) then took me to Bob’s Pizza while the award ceremony was going on at the meet.”

The three of them are all senior throwers on the track team and participate in the shot put, discus and hammer throwing. Although the thought of throwing heavy objects as far as you See Throwers Page 12

I would like to publicly apologize to anyone and everyone that knew me in elementry school and middle school. #rough Drew Dearman @Dewski72_ Offensive Lineman Just wintnesed a worldstart girl fight at the Hardees parking lot.

Shirts ripping and hair pulling lol Austin Karazsia @ AKarazia32 Forward If you’ve never tried to sing like Creed, you’re lying to yourself.

Bud Collura @BudCollura Third baseman Two college basbeall highlights they have shown on ESPN all year. 1. Florida St brawl with spotlight on Winston 2. Florida State rain delay Chris May @CmayFive5 Offensive Lineman Grease is one of my top 5 favorite movies of all time.

Derek Westbrook @thedwestbrook25 Track and Field

INSIDE USA baseball falls to ASU in SBC series

South Alabama track holds invitational

Men’s tennis clinches wins at home

20% left on my phone and 2 hours left in class... I’m in trouble.

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VOL. 54, NO. 13 / APR. 14, 2014

out of our

league

Jags baseball falls to Arkansas State wolves

MLB

Game 3 - USA 2, ASU 3

Fri. April 11

7 6 NATIONALS RED SOX 4 2 YANKEES 5 DODGERS DIAMONDBACKS 6 ATLANTA

BRAVES VS.

WASHINGTON

BOSTON

VS.

NEW YORK

LOS ANGELES

VS.

ARIZONA

COURTESY OF USAJAGUARS

Cole Gleason went 3-for-4 with a double and one RBI on Sunday.

Game 1 - USA 5, ASU 0

Game 2 - USA 6, ASU 7

Sat. April 12 6

ATLANTA

BRAVES VS.

3

WASHINGTON

NATIONALS

4 7

BOSTON

RED SOX VS.

NEW YORK

YANKEES

1

LOS ANGELES

DODGERS VS.

ARIZONA

DIAMONDBACKS

0

Sun. April 13 ATLANTA

BRAVES VS. WASHINGTON

NATIONALS BOSTON

RED SOX VS.

NEW YORK

YANKEES LOS ANGELES

10 2 2 3

4 DIAMONDBACKS 5 DODGERS VS.

ARIZONA

USA softball defeats Mississippi State SAMUEL BROWN Staff Reporter

After a disappointing week in losing three games, the Jaguars returned home to host the Mississippi State Bulldogs Wednesday, April 9. In the top of the seventh inning, with the Jaguars leading 3-1, Mississippi State had the bases loaded with no outs, and USA’s Hannah Campbell was on the mound. With the heart of the Bulldog line-up coming up, Campbell got out the jam, allowing only one run leading to a 3-2 Jaguar victory.

“The biggest thing is that I’m proud of our club for bouncing back from a rough week last week,” USA coach Becky Clark said. “We were really good at the plate early on. We were very balanced, and we weren’t pressing.”

Farish Beard got the start for the Jaguars, pitching four scoreless innings while striking out three and allowing only two hits. Campbell came in relief for Beard and pitched the final three innings, allowing one run while picking up

her fourth save of the season.

All of the three Jaguar runs came in the bottom of the second inning. Amanda Herron hit a two-run home run, her third of the year, which drove in Alyssa Linn who pinch-ran for Alex Breeden after leading off the inning with a double. Taylor Rodgers scored the third and final Jaguar run after scoring on a Stephanie Pilkington clutch two-out RBI single.

The game remained quiet until the top of the fifth inning. After Mississippi State center fielder Loryn Nichols led off the inning getting hit by a Campbell pitch, a Jessica Offutt sacrifice bunt attempt drew from Breeden an errant throw, which went all the way to the right field fence, bringing in Nichols to score the Bulldogs’ first run of the game.

Campbell then retired all the Bulldogs she faced until the top of the seventh inning. Bulldogs Kayla Winkfield, Nichols and Offutt led off the innings with singles to load the bases with no outs. Heidi Shape hit a sacrifice fly

to record the first out of the inning, but it was then a one-run game. Campbell shut the door on the next two Bulldogs to secure the victory 3-2.

With the win, Beard improves to 17-3 on the year. Allison Owen got the start for the Bulldogs, pitching two innings and allowing three runs on four hits. Owens falls to 15-8 on the year.

“It was a great start to the week,” Clark said.

“We know this is a big week for us. We had an SEC team and then (Louisiana) Lafayette this weekend on our home field. We need to get it done here.”

With the win, the Jaguars improve to 31-6 overall and a perfect 13-0 at home. The Jaguars go ahead in the all-time series against Mississippi State 3-2, winning each of the last five contests. Mississippi State falls to 30-13 on the year. This is the third SEC team the Jaguars have defeated this season, having earlier winning contests against LSU and Georgia.

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VOL. 54, NO. 13 / APR. 14, 2014

Men’s tennis clinches wins at home, honors only senior Tennis tops Texas-San Antonio and University of Alabama at Birmingham over to end regular season SAVON MORRIS Contributing Writer

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niversity of South Alabama junior Daniel Leitner and sophomore Gerhard Gruindelingh accounted for three points in the men’s tennis team’s 4-2 victory over Texas-San Antonio Saturday, April 12 at the Bruce David Lubel Memorial Tennis Courts.

The Jaguars, ranked No. 75, improved to 16-7 in their spring campaign, while the Roadrunners dropped to 9-16 overall.

Senior Shayann Vaezzadeh was honored before the match. In 2013 Vaezzadeh recorded a 15-13 overall record, 8-8 in dual matches. Vaezzadeh is 1-1 at No. 3, 1-2 at No. 4, 5-4 at No. 5, 1-1. Vaezzadeh recorded three straight-sets wins over opponents from ranked schools, losing no more than three games in a set.

Leitner and Gruindelingh picked up the only doubles win for South Alabama with an 8-3 victory over Yannick Junger and Boburjon Kamiljanov at No. 2. Leitner later faced Junger at the No. 1 spot and won 6-3, 6-4 to give the Jags a 3-1 lead. Gruindelingh secured the match for USA when

he rallied back to defeat Diogo Casa 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 at No. 4.

“Daniel took the lead right from the beginning,” USA head coach Nick Brochu said. “His opponent tried to make a comeback, but Daniel stayed so solid. I think he won the match just by being so consistent and winning the right points. He is very tough mentally and physically.”

Brochu continued, “Even though Gerhard was not playing at the top of his game, he came back and fought to pull out the win, and that was nice to see. It’s great to see guys that really have a lot of heart raise their level, even when things aren’t going their way.”

South Alabama took the first three singles matches in straight sets. Sophomore Juan Troglia dropped Kolby Kilgo 6-2, 6-1 on the No. 5 court and senior Shayann Vaezzadeh downed Harley Pearson 6-1, 6-0 in the No. 6 flight.

After Leitner’s win, Tomas Stillman claimed the only singles point for UTSA when he topped junior Manuel Belda 6-4, 6-4 at the No. 2 spot. Gruindelingh followed with the final point for the Jags.

In doubles action, No. 47 Joel Rubio and Stillman snapped a three-match losing streak with an 8-5 win over Belda

ALYSSA NEWTON | SPORTS EDITOR

Gerhard Gruindelingh accounted for three points in the men’s tennis team’s 4-2 victory over Texas-San Antonio on Saturday. and Troglia at No. 1. Casa and Fabian Brand clinched the doubles point for the Roadrunners when they edged Vaezzadeh and freshman Tuki Jacobs 8-7 (7-4) on the No. 3 court.

South Alabama men’s tennis team came back to tie the match at 3-3 and Jacobs rallied to clinch the 4-3 victory over UAB.

The 75th-ranked Jaguars end their regular season with a three-match win streak and a 17-7 overall mark. The Blazers fall to 12-8.

“Today was a very long match,” Brochu said. “We played for four and a half hours, which was a very big battle. UAB was a good team, and they fought extremely well. It feels awesome to win.”

No. 15 USA softball loses three game series to No. 18 ULL Game 1 - ULL 6, USA 2 No box score available.

Game 2 - USA 8, ULL 4

Game 3 - ULL 5, USA 1

COURTESY OF USAJAGUARS

USA's Taylor Rodgers went 2-for-3 in game three versus SBC opponent Louisiana-Lafayette on Sunday.

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VOL. 54, NO. 13 / APR. 14, 2014

Track and field hosts South Alabama Invitational South Alabama has last home track meet for the outdoor season, Jaguars collect nine victories JENNA MUNDAY Staff Reporter

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he University of South Alabama men’s and women’s track and field teams recently competed at their home venue for the third and final time when they hosted the 14th Annual South Alabama Invitational April 11-12.

The Jags hosted nine teams at this invitational including Sun Belt Conference opponents Arkansas State, Louisiana-Lafayette and Troy. Joining the Sun Belt teams were teams from Belhaven, Birmingham-Southern, Loyola (New Orleans), Tulane, West Florida and William Carey.

“It’s always good to have the opportunity to compete at your home facility and in front of your own fans,” head track and field coach Paul Brueske said. “It’s exciting to be able to welcome in some quality programs in a bigger meet like this, and I think our studentathletes will be up to the challenge.”

On Friday, the first day of the invitational, the competitions included the women’s triple jump, men’s triple jump, men’s hammer throw, men’s pole vault and women’s shot put.

South Alabama claimed a total of four individual victories on day one.

According to USAJaguars.com, the Jags took top honors in both the men and women’s hammer throw, led by Renaldo Frechou and Bobbie Williamson, respectively. Frechou finished with a top mark of 61.43m to best the field by more than four meters. On the women’s side, Williamson posted a measure

of 57.75m to top the field by more than five meters.

Noelle Jones captured the title in the women’s shot put, finishing with a heave of 13.74m. Miller earned a runner-up finish with a 13.62m mark, while Jasmine Ferguson (12.30m) placed fifth overall.

Lezyon Legarde took first place in the men’s triple jump with a 15.45m effort, while Jaylon Holt’s 14.84m leap was good for third.

Berron Tyson placed sixth at 14.10m.

Kaitlyn Beans was the top performer for the Lady Jags in the triple jump, and her mark of 12.13m was good for second place overall.

As the lone representative for USA in the men’s pole vault, Garrett Schumacher took third place with a top clearance of 4.80m.

To highlight day two of the invitational, the Jaguars earned a total of nine victories, setting a new school record.

“We feel like we’re starting to really show what we can do,” Brueske said. “We’re making some really good progress across the board. We’ve certainly still got some things we need to continue to work on, but I think we’re getting better each meet.”

During day two of the invitational, USA also recognized 13 graduating seniors in a brief ceremony: Jones, Schumacher, Smith, Williamson, Tyler Agee, Nick Farrell, Leah Hixon, Jarrod Kedzior, Tori Lawson, Jeff Long, Melissa McCluskey, Adam Patterson and Alex Shields.

A complete list of results from both days of the invitational are currently posted on the USA Jaguars website.

ALYSSA NEWTON | SPORTS EDITOR

USA claimed nine titles to conclude the South Alabama Invitational.

Blanchard dismissed from South Alabama football team Promising running back Kaleb Blanchard no longer a part of team, no longer enrolles at USA SAMUEL BROWN Staff Reporter

S

COURTESY OF USAJAGUARS

Blanchard is no longer a member of the South Alabama football team.

outh Alabama running back Kaleb Blanchard was suspended all throughout spring practice due to a violation of team policy. Head coach Joey Jones made it official last Monday when he announced that Kaleb Blanchard would no longer be a member of the team.

Blanchard, who would have been a redshirt freshman, was expected to battle for playing time this upcoming season. Not only is he no longer a member of the team, he is also no longer enrolled at South Alabama.

The 6-foot, 200-pound running back from Denham Springs, La., was rated a four star recruit by Rivals.com and a three star recruit by ESPN.com.

He was rated the 30th best running back in the country by 247sports.com and the 15th best player in the state of Louisiana by Rivals.com. Before committing to South Alabama, Blanchard was verbally committed to the University of Arkansas. After Bret Bielema was hired as head coach at Arkansas, the Razorbacks pulled Blanchard’s offer. Blanchard had committed to South Alabama over offers from Vanderbilt, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Cincinnati, Arkansas State, Louisi-

ana-Monroe and Louisiana-Tech, among others.

Out of Denham Springs High School, Blanchard is the school’s second all-time leading rusher. He also holds the school’s record for rushing touchdowns with 41.

Despite the dismissal of Blanchard from the team, the Jaguars still have plenty of options at the running back position. Jay Jones, Cris Dinham, Xavier Johnson, Terrance Timmons and Kendall Houston are the running backs on scholarship who will be competing for playing time this fall. Walk-on running back Berren Tyson was also impressive in the spring and could compete for playing time as well.

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VOL. 54, NO. 13 / APR. 14, 2014

Honoring USA track and tennis senior athletes

ALYSSA NEWTON | SPORTS EDITOR

USA recognized 13 graduating seniors in a brief ceremony: Jones, Schumacher, Smith, Williamson, Tyler Agee, Nick Farrell, Leah Hixon, Jarrod Kedzior, Tori Lawson, Jeff Long, Melissa McCluskey, Adam Patterson and Alex Shields. (Top photo) Senior Shayann Vaezzadeh was honored before the match against UTSA on Saturday, April 12. (Bottom photo)

Throwers Continued from Page 8

can sounds like it would be an easy task, it is one of the most technical and dangerous events in track and field.

“A lot of people may see someone perform our event and think it looks so easy, but throwing in track and field takes combination of a lot of things,” Long said. “Physically, it takes a great deal of power, explosiveness, technique and speed.”

Although they competed against each other in events, they constantly supported and encouraged each other.

“All three of us are very competitive in everything we do,” Kedzior said. “Some meets that we go to, we would be the top entries so we had to push each other to do better. I think the best part of throwing is pushing yourself and your teammates. If there is no competition between teammates, it is hard personally to get better.”

But being on the team doesn’t always have to be serious, especially while traveling.

“My favorite memory (while traveling with track) happened at Florida State when me, Jeff (Long) and Jarrod (Kedzior) had to push two twin beds together and sleep three across,” Patterson said. “Or when Jeff (Long) gets really excited on bus rides to Ar-

kansas. He loves that place for some reason.”

The fun times aren’t just limited to on the road. Outside of track meets and drills, those who know the three will tell you they are constantly together.

Like most other college-aged guys, they like to play video games like “Call of Duty,”go hunting and fishing, play cards and just hang out. And then there are a few things that, maybe, just shouldn’t be questioned.

“Jarrod (Kedzior) recently started teaching us mediation techniques,” Long said.

“It’s something we find interesting.”

“We like to sing Chris Young songs,” Patterson added. “Jarrod (Kedzior) and I like to

choreograph dances.”

But with the crazy shenanigans, jokes and laughs aside, these three Ohio boys, who either didn’t know or barely knew each other four years ago, found friendship through the mutual passion of a sport they love at the University of South Alabama.

“I couldn’t ask for a greater group of guys to be a part of in this squad,” Patterson said. “It makes the sport a lot more fun when you’re doing it with your boys. I think track is the sport that allowed us to mesh, but our personalities are what bonded us so tightly. It’s like we are on a team for life. I know they got my back, and I’ll always have theirs.”

LEAVE COMMENTS FOR OPINION AT thevanguardonline.com/opinionfeedback VOL. 54, NO. 13 / APR. 14, 2014

Opinion

JORDAN KNOX OPINION EDITOR kjk1103@jagmail.southalabama.edu

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Maryland raises minimum wage from $7 to $10

By RYAN WALLACE Contributing Writer

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he highlight of President Barack Obama’s lackluster State of the Union address a couple of months ago was his call for Congress and individual states to increase the minimum wage to the catchy-sounding amount of $10.10. So far, the movement on the president’s entreaty has been lethargic, to put it kindly. With Republicans in control of the House of Representatives, any measure to increase the minimum wage on a national scale is dead on

arrival. There are, however, two states that have chosen to sign on to Obama’s directive, both in the last month. Connecticut enacted its $10.10 minimum wage law March 28 with Maryland following suit last Monday, April 7.

Alabamians should feel fortunate that our leadership will not be following in Yankee footsteps. Alabama can proudly claim to be one of five states (the others are South Carolina, Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana) that have no minimum wage laws as a state. Nineteen other states have minimum wage laws that match the federal one, while four states have minimum wages lower than the federal standard. States that actually have minimum wage laws higher than the federal standard include Rhode Island, Illinois, Nevada and California. If that collection of states sounds familiar, it’s because they rank dead last in the nation in unemployment numbers. While supporters of minimum wage laws can for the most part be taken at their word that they are interested in “raising workers out of poverty,” it is a position rooted in economic illiteracy.

As the Employment Policies Institute points out, “Economic research has shown time and again that increasing the minimum wage destroys jobs for low-skilled workers while doing little to address poverty.” Given a choice between being forced to pay someone an amount incommensurate with their worth as an employee, companies will generally choose to hire nobody at all. A Congressional Budget Office report indicates that a national $10.10 minimum wage will destroy about 500,000 jobs nationally, which is fine because we have too many of those in the first place, right?

Having hard economic data, however, is rarely enough when dealing with someone who is convinced they are acting in your best interest, whether you think so or not. As a policy, minimum wage laws are anti-freedom due to their interference in the right of two entities to negotiate a free contract. If gay marriage is an act between two consenting adults that brooks no government interference, if abortion is a procedure between a woman and her doctor that doesn’t require Leviathan’s oversight, then

how can the same people who support those rights support regulation of contracts between agreeable parties regarding employment? Furthermore, it should be obvious that a Socialismrooted policy like minimum wage laws warp the free market ethos that our economy is based on. If you don’t like businessmen moving their companies to China, then you should be in favor of letting those same businessmen pay American workers for the value of their labor, and not some artificially mandated minimum put in place by the government, be it state or federal.

As far as recoveries go, Alabama is faring quite well. From monthly unemployment rates ranging as high as 10.3 percent just four years ago, the rate so far this year is about 6.1 percent.

This is largely due to sound economic policies from Montgomery, especially lowered tax rates that encourage growth. There is absolutely no call for an unforced error like trying to meet the bumper-sticker-worthy minimum wage rate championed by an economically-challenged president and his party.

RYAN KELLER | GRAPHIC DESIGNER

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VOL. 54, NO. 13 / APR. 14, 2014

What are some classes that you are most excited or nervous about taking next semester? Why? CRYSTAL HAMILTON Thermodynamics. You know why.

ZADORA EDWARDS Im excited to take my senior seminar because it means I am getting the hell out of here!

SHANNON HOUSE I can’t wait for my Shakespeare

JULIE RODEN The make-up class the drama department offers. Stoked.

STUART SOX Excited about Script-writing, because it will be something already love doing!

To post your answers to the next JagPulse, be sure to follow us on Facebook.

literature class! I’ve heard a lot of good things about the professor. I’m kind of nervous about my Advanced French Grammar class because it’s an upper level class.

Overall, I’m really looking forward to my schedule because I basically have Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays off

Is our cellphone dependence getting out of hand?

By COURTNEY TURNER Contributing Writer

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oming out this month is the new Windows Phone 8.1 update. Included in the update is a personal assistant called Cortana, named for the “Halo” character. This personal assistant will be using Miracast, which allows the use of video/audio content sharing and phone calls via Wi-Fi. Cortana will have an action center and customizable options, along with customizable lock screens and backgrounds. The phone is powered by Bing, which searches personal suggestions based on how you use the Internet. It features something called notebook, which is a settings page for you to tell Cortana what to do and when to do it as well as what to keep track of.

Also, an interesting feature would be the quiet hours, which can be switched on so the phone won’t ‘bother’ you during your busy times. You can set certain

contacts who are allowed to break this quiet time just in case of emergencies.

This is all well and good. Just like Apple’s Siri, Cortana will do what it’s told and will most likely lead to some interesting conversations and glitches. Eventually, all smart devices will likely have a personal assistant like Cortana or Siri, which could lead to smartphone users relying even more heavily on the devices.

But aren’t we too dependent on our smartphones already? We use them for everything: communication, weather updates, news updates, calendar events, social media sites, Internet and amusement. We can even do our banking and view our security systems at home with them. The world continues to update its technology all the time, making things faster and more efficient, but in doing this, are we hurting ourselves?

According to a July 2013 article on Jumio.com, a whopping

72 percent of Americans report that, most of the time, they’re no more than 5 feet away from their smartphones. Even more surprising are the times and places smartphones are being used.

Nine percent of Americans reported smartphone use during sex, 12 percent reported smartphone use in the shower and 19 percent reported using their smartphones during church service. Some of the respondents in the study (12 percent of those in relationships) even reported feeling their smartphone use was negatively impacting their romantic relationship.

Admittedly, holding access to the world in the palm of your hand is incredible when you think about it. But if your smartphone is just short of literally being glued to your hand, that’s a problem. If you can’t get through one class without checking for a new text or Facebook notification, that’s a problem. If you feel the need to check your phone in the

middle of an intimate moment with your partner, that’s a problem and a sure sign that your smartphone dependency has gotten out of control.

I’m not suggesting we do away with these devices. They do, in fact, make life easier. If your car

breaks down on the roadside, you can pull out your phone and call for assistance instead of walking around, knocking on strangers’ doors. But maybe, every once in a while, we can all put our phones down and look at the world around us.

MATTHEW STRICKLAND | JAGLIFE EDITOR

Not so love me Tinder: Dating app is killing romance

By JORDAN KNOX Opinion Editor

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n the age of smart phones, tablets, virtual assistants and the Internet, it can be nearly impossible to keep up with the latest and greatest trends. With mega popular games such as Flappy Bird and social networking apps like Twitter, it’s easy to see that our generation is always look-

ing for new things to do on their phones.

One of the latest trends is a dating app called Tinder. When you first download Tinder, you are asked to connect to your Facebook page, with the promise that Tinder will never post anything to your Facebook profile. Tinder displays only your first name, and you can upload a maximum of six pictures. You can write a short bio about yourself and indicate your sexual preference for men and/ or women. Your birthdate is obtained from Facebook, and you can set an age limit for people with whom you want to be paired.

After the initial setup of your profile, the app will show you the profiles of anyone with a Tinder account within a 100-mile radius

of you. This feature is also customizable. Swipe left, or “nope,” if you aren’t attracted to the person and swipe right, or “like,” if you are. Most millenials are familiar with this concept.

Once you swipe right to “like” a person, you then find out if he or she has swiped right for you, too. If so, little bubbles pop up saying, “It’s a match!” At this point, you are given the option to message that person.

Considering you’re giving limited information, Tinder might seem like a safe way to meet people in your area. In some cases, I’m sure that people have met and fallen head over heels. However, the limited information you are given makes people a tad bit more brave than they would be in

person.

The limited knowledge you have about a person you’re matched with creates an air of anonymity. You don’t actually know this person, so you can say whatever you want. I downloaded the app to see what all the fuss was about and around 70 percent of my matches made some lame attempt at trying to “hookup” with me.

Call me old-fashioned, but excuse me! I would like at least to be wooed before a guy ‘goes for the gold.’ It may be hard for people our age to remember, but there was a time when if a guy wanted to go out with a girl he had to ask her parents for permission. I imagine that if my dad heard a guy try to hit on me by saying some-

thing like, “Are you a beaver because dam?” (an actual thing that a guy on Tinder said to me), he would put the fear of God in that boy.

In theory, Tinder seems like a cool idea, but just like any other great invention, people are going to do with it what they will.

It seems to me like this app is just making it easier for people to hookup without ever having to make a real human connection. That’s sickening and, frankly, makes me sad. Where is the romance, people?

The next time you’re out trying to find your one true love, think about the message you’re sending by downloading Tinder. Are you really going to meet the person of your dreams this way?

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VOL. 54, NO. 13 / APR. 14, 2014

Distractions Horoscopes Aries 3.20-4.19: Your sense of adventure is infectious -- but only to a point. You must learn to accept that others aren’t quite as impulsive, Ram. At the very least, you should stop headbutting people who make you angry.

Taurus 4.20-5.20: At the end of the semester, your physical and emotional strength

leave you feeling as if you could still conquer the world. But when your classmates crumble in exhaustion, leaving you to finish that group science project, keep your cool and remember to warn people against wearing red in your presence. You are the Bull after all.

Gemini 5.21-6.20: Your communication skills could rival the chattiest Chatty Cathy to

Sudoku

PHYSICAL THERAPY POLITICAL SCIENCE PSYCHOLOGY SOCIOLOGY VISUAL ARTS

ACCOUNTING ANTHROPOLOGY ART BIOLOGY BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES BUSINESS CHEMISTRY COMMUNICATIONS COMPUTER SCIENCE CRIMINAL JUSTICE ECONOMICS EDUCATION ENGINEERING FILM FOREIGN LANGUAGE GEOGRAPHY GEOLOGY HISTORY JOURNALISM MARKETING MUSIC NURSING

ever exist. But this trait combined with your lack of punctuality could be disastrous. Don’t start telling the supermarket cashier your life story and miss your final.

Cancer 6.21-7.22: Your loyalty is unrivaled and your empathy allows you to see all sides of an issue. While it’s understandable that you can’t always play mediator, it’s super weird when you Crab-walk away from a heated argument. Just walk normally.

Leo 7.23-8.22: We get it. You’re ‘king of the jungle.’ Hate to break it to you, little Lion cub, but lions aren’t native to the jungle. So back down for a bit. Be a cuddly kitty cat.

Virgo 8.23-9.22: This time of the years tends to be difficult for you. Even with the highest possible GPA, you still think you could do better. You need to calm down, Virgin. Relax. Go on vacation. Colorado, maybe.

Libra 9.23-10.22: Yes, Chick-Fil-A is yummy and fast and right there, but eat something healthy or it’ll be like gaining the freshman 15 all over again. Ditch the nuggets, and try an apple or a banana as finals fuel instead. Just to be clear, though, whether natural or artificial, fruit-flavored candy does not count.

Scorpio 10.23-11.21: Your bewitching aura charms everyone you meet, for sure, but they don’t always reciprocate your immediately intense feelings of friendship. Learn to accept

that, little Scorpion. Just because you’ve hung out with a new friend a few times doesn’t mean you get to be part of the bridal party for their summer wedding.

Sagittarius 11.22-12.21: Flirting is fun, sweet Archer, and you have it down to an art.

Unfortunately, your ever-changing nature can throw potential romantic interests for a loop.

Maybe dull the point on your love arrows.

Capricorn 12.22-1.19: Your hardworking, responsible nature is the envy of all your classmates, especially this time of year. But if you don’t have some fun soon, your short-temper fuse will start igniting without provocation. So live a little. Get crazy. But, Sea Goat, maybe don’t post pictures of yourself getting wild.

You don’t need to prove yourself to anyone.

Aquarius 1.20-2.18: Your kindness and intelligence make you a great person to talk to, so forging friendships is as easy as pie for you.

If you want to keep some of these friends you make, though, you’ll need to get over your fear of making commitments.

Pisces 2.19-3.20: A new adventure could bring with it a great opportunity if you’re willing to step out of your comfort zone. Be sure to look both ways before stepping out of your comfort zone, though. Otherwise, your ‘adventure’ could be a trip to the hospital after getting hit by a car on campus.

What is your major?

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