Aug. 19, 2013 The Vanguard by The Vanguard

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

AUG. 19, 2013

INSIDE

MyForce app offers additional security

VOL. 53, NO. 4

2013 Jag Football

USAPD introduces an emergency request app at a discounted student rate. ► News: Chinese exchange students depart USA after a three-week summer camp. See Campus News, page 6.

► Life: USA’s dining hall meal plans move to unlimited access for underclassmen. See JagLife, page 8

By ALYSSA NEWTON akn1104@jagmail.southalabama.edu

SA has partnered with a new app to further the safety of students with the push of a button. On Thursday, USAPD announced the integration of the program MyForce, a personal safety service that sends out a distress alert to local emergency teams. This app provides the user’s GPS location to police. Not only are the police able to track the user by GPS, the program also starts recording their surroundings in real time. “This is not just a campus application,” USA Police Chief Zeke Aull said. “Our students can take this with them anywhere in the United States … MyForce’s monitoring service will work with any law enforcement within that jurisdiction.” In addition to the GPS locator and real time recording, MyForce offers the option to store emergency contacts, information about any medical needs and allergies, a photo of yourself, vehicle information, or any ongoing domestic situations, all of which the police will have immediate access to once the user sends an alert.

“You can use this app for any type of need,” Captain Keith West said. “It’s not just for crimes.” Many South Alabama students asked about “blue box systems.” These are emergency call boxes that are set up throughout a university campus, allowing students to push a button or call police from that one location. “Campuses of similar sizes, like the University of West Florida, have a ‘blue box’ system with many boxes all over campus,” Zac Fox, chemical engineering major, said. “Yes it will cost money, but it seems like money well spent in my opinion. The police cannot be everywhere at once, but this system would keep them connected to the campus at all hours of everyday.” Chief Aull mentioned these systems while talking about the new program. He said the USAPD was reluctant to put up these systems due to cost and the fact that these systems would be spread out and ineffective when a student could be in danger. “We have none [blue box systems] on our campus,” Aull said. “Everyone has a See MyForce emergency app Page 5

► Life: USA family medicine resident, Dr. Aaron Morgan, saves 16-year-old athlete. See JagLife, page 8

► LOC: Recap of the 2013 Media Days for Jag football. See Left of Center, page 19

ALYSSA NEWTON | LOC EDITOR

USAPD Chief Zeke Aull demonstrates the MyForce app, which requests emergency assistance based on GPS.

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Doctoral program to be accreditted by APA By NOAH LOGAN

ncl1101@jagmail.southalabama.edu

his summer, the inaugural class of clinical and counseling psychology students graduated from the doctoral program. This marks a milestone for the program. With a graduated class, the program now has students at all levels of matriculation, which was the final requirement needed in order for the program to gain accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA). Accreditation informs the general public that an institution meets quality standards from the APA. It is also a process that encourages improvement through self-study and outside review. The program submitted its APA Accreditation Self-Study in August 2012. The self-study assesses strengths and weaknesses per APA standards and informs the APA that the program is ready

In this Issue:

for an on-site visit. The on-site visit from APA officials was held June 6 and 7 of 2013. Dr. Tres Stefurak, Associate Director of Training for the Clinical and Counseling Psychology Ph.D. Program, said the program was very proud of the results of the on-site visit. He specifically went on to say, “They pointed out that we have a very creative way of funding our students.“ All graduate students who are accepted into the doctoral program receive assistantships that cover almost all the tuition cost as well as costs of living during the program. Students receive stipends in return for working various positions such as teaching undergraduate psychology classes and doing clinical work at the University. They also work for other agencies like AltaPointe Health Systems that have contracts with the University. See Psychology doctorate Page 5

Life, Page 6 Sports, Page 13 Left of Center, Page 18 Opinion, Page 26

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

Final 2013 Mobile mayoral debate provides insight By STUART SOX sgsox@att.net

he candidates for Mobile’s 2013 mayoral election convened at Davidson High School’s auditorium on Aug. 13 for the final mayoral debate before election day on Aug. 27. Candidates Dr. Doris Brown, Sandy Stimpson and Mayor Sam Jones debated on a variety of topics impacting the city of Mobile in front of hundreds of citizens in the auditorium. WKRG News 5’s Peter Albrecht moderated the debate, which was sponsored by the League of Women Voters. WKRG News 5 broadcast the event live.

The debate questions were formulated by members of the League of Women Voters and WKRG News 5. Each candidate had one minute and 15 seconds to respond with no rebuttal period. The first question posed to the candidates asked how their education and experience qualified them to be the mayor of Mobile. Brown responded first, citing her experience working with a “wide range of people” in the business sector, the entertainment industry, the sports industry and in social services. Brown also added that she attended four different universities, which she says was helpful because it allowed her to meet and work with all kinds of people. Jones pointed to his time spent serving in the U.S. Navy, his 18 years spent on the Mobile County Commission and his eight years as the mayor of Mobile. “I think the handson experience of working with the public is of real benefit to someone who sits in the mayor’s office,” Jones said. Stimpson opened with

STUART SOX | SENIOR REPORTER

(L to R) Doris Brown, Sam Jones and Sandy Stimpson met Aug. 13 for the last debate before the mayoral election. a comparatively aggressive response, referring to himself as “the only candidate” more than once. “My experience leads me to be the only candidate that has cast a vision for our city, and that’s a bold vision.” Stimpson claims that, if elected, he will make Mobile the “safest and most business-friendly” city in the U.S. by 2020. Colin Al-Greene, a graduate student at USA in the MBA program, attended the debate. “I think that Sandy Stimpson is far and away the best candidate for mayor. He will work to improve the quality of life of the people that work

in our city,” Al-Greene said. When asked about budget priorities, Stimpson and Jones placed public safety on the top of their lists. Stimpson, however, said that public safety has not been a priority under the Jones administration. “It’s been six years since our policemen and firemen have had a raise and they’re driving cars that are worn out,” Stimpson added. For Brown’s budget priorities, she said her focus would be to “build a better city by building better housing structures.” Brown added that she would also like to bring more jobs and

revenue into the city. The candidates were then asked how they felt about last year’s sales tax increase from four to five cents on a dollar, which will expire in 2015. “I think it was a mistake to put the tax in,” said Stimpson, who also added that this tax was forcing people to take their business outside of city limits. “If we are going to increase revenue it cannot be done by raising taxes,” Stimpson added. Brown was also against the tax. “I won’t increase taxes. We have to build revenue. Part of my duties should I become the mayor will be to increase revenue and decrease taxes,” she said, adding, “I will be building things in the city of Mobile.” Jones defended the raising of taxes, insisting that it was necessary during what he called “the worst recession in the history of the city.” The mayor pointed out that Mobile was listed in Forbes Magazine as one of the top 10 cities in the U.S. for recession recovery. Later in the debate, the candidates were asked to evaluate their two opponents and their ability to lead Mobile. Albrecht added the stipulation that they must include at least two positive charSee Mobile mayoral debate Page 4

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

“University of South Alabama’s Student Voice”

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Editorial Editor in Chief Copy Editor Opinion Editor Sports Editor Left of Center JagLife Editor Web Editor Senior Reporter Staff Reporter

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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, which is composed of the Editor in Chief, Copy Editor, Senior Reporter and Opinion Editor. 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.

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Mobile mayoral debate Continued from Page Two.

acteristics in their assessments. Brown went first, praising the mayor for his service to Mobile and his role in bringing Airbus to the city. She did, however, have a few criticisms. “I think the mayor has neglected some things in the city like the cruise ship … that could have been rearranged,” Brown added. She also expressed her dissatisfaction with downtown Mobile and its number of empty buildings. “I think the mayor could have looked a little bit deeper to look at expanding and building a better downtown,” said Brown, who expressed her wish that downtown Mobile were more like the downtown of her native city, Detroit. Brown ran out of time before she could assess Stimpson. Stimpson commended Brown for her enthusiasm and her smile, but never gave her any criticism. He then turned to the mayor, thanking him for his service in the U.S. Navy and his service as the mayor of Mobile. “The only thing I would hold against him is that he is a good friend of my brother-in-law, so that makes him suspect,” Stimpson added jokingly. Jones, like Stimpson, praised Brown for her enthusiasm as well as her ambition. He then pointed out that Detroit, the city that Brown had just essentially said she wished Mobile were more like, had just declared bankruptcy. On Stimpson, the mayor said that he is a very passionate businessman. “On the other hand I think he [Stimpson] has a lot of blind ambitions,” Jones said. “It’s easy to talk about what you’re going to do until somebody asks you how. And then the how never comes.” Carson Cook, a junior business major at South Alabama attended the debate. “It sounded like a politician taking up for a broken system and a businessman running for office with fresh ideas,” Cook said, referring to Jones and Stimpson respectively. Blane Fillingim, a sophomore mechanical engineering major at USA, praised the organization of the event. “The debate setup was efficient in allowing the viewer to truly see who

each candidate really is. The time allotted forced the candidates to get across their ideas, keeping the mudslinging to a minimum,” Fillingim commented. For their closing statements, each candidate was given one minute and 30 seconds to emphasize his or her plans and platforms. “The success of any city rises and falls on the leadership ability of its mayor… Today I stand ready to lead Mobile from good to great and have it become the safest and most business-friendly city in America by 2020,” Stimpson said. “This campaign is about performance, not about campaign promises,” said Jones, who encouraged all to look at his administration’s records in job creation, downtown development and finances for the last few years. “Our city is about to embark on a transformative economic development era, which will define our future for generations to come, enhance our city’s character and give high-paying jobs to countless Mobilians,” the mayor added, citing his part in bringing Airbus to Mobile. “I’d like to ask you to grant me the opportunity to change Mobile,” Brown said for her closing statements. “You will see change… I will be working hard to make sure that the people in the community have jobs. That’s my number one focus,” Brown added. A full video recording of the debate can be found on WKRG News 5’s website, www.wkrg. com. Mobile’s 2013 mayoral election will take place on Aug. 27, 2013.

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

MyForce emergency app Continued from Page One.

cell phone that is already on your person at all times. This way they won’t have to run to a button, but have it on them at all times.” If you press the button accidentally, there is a method to ensure that the user is safe. The user who sends the alert has a four digit PIN that cancels the alert after it is sent. Even when the PIN is entered, an operator will call and ask for your personal safe-word that you set up when you

ALYSSA NEWTON | LOC EDITOR

The MyForce app for smartphones provides additional safety with just the press of a button.

register for the program. “That way if you are under distress and you don’t give the correct safe-word they will keep tracking you and inform police enforcement and continue to monitor you,” West said. South Alabama is the seventh institution in the nation and the first in Alabama to use MyForce as an additional campus security system. South Alabama’s Student Government Association President Riley Davis says she feels more safe and secure now that the USAPD has partnered with this app. “I don’t have to dial three numbers, I can push one button and someone is listening to everything that is happening,” Davis said. Davis admitted that the personal profile information aspect of the app is her favorite feature. “It gives me the sense of security,” Davis said. “If something were to happen to me they would already have that information and wouldn’t have to wait for my medical records to come in.” The MyForce app is $99 a month, or $11.99 a month. By using the promo code “Jaguars” students are able to purchase MyForce at this discounted rate. “I think this is well worth the investment for your safety,” Aull said. “You can still always call 911 or our direct line 251-460-6312. This is just another layer of protection. We encourage them to call us, hence our program ‘If you see something, say something.’” Students can sign up for MyForce or receive more information by visiting their website myforce. com

Psychology doctorate Continued from Page One.

On Oct. 22, 2013, the APA Commission on Accreditation will give a final vote to grant accreditation to the program. If approved, the degrees recently awarded from the program will be fully accredited. One aspect Stefurak focused on was the rate at which their students receive internships that are required before graduating. “One big issue in psychology right now is in internships.’ Stefurak said. “Right now there is a pretty severe shortage of those, so students sometimes have to wait another year to graduate until they can get matched with one of these internships. Nationally, 18 percent of graduate students cannot be placed in an internship in their first year [of eligibility]. Our first cohort under Dr. [Martin] Rohling all got internships their first year and our second cohort of four students, who just applied for internships, all got internships their first year as well. So while there is a national average of 86 percent, we are at 100 percent so far.”

He cites the unique combination of training in both clinical and counseling psychology as opposed to one or the other as the program’s secret to success. “Clinical is more focused on the scientific application of how to help people,” Stefurak said. “Clinical is more focused on people who are severely mentally impaired and very sick. Counseling has a little bit more tradition of serving a broader range of people. While counseling does value the on-average scientific approach for helping people, it also focuses on things like how the person’s values and culture and subjectivity affect how they best receive help. We have to train students to think scientifically and also how to think culturally.” With the program taking off, Stefurak hopes that student enrollment and faculty research will both increase. More information about specific research resulting from the program and other details can be found on the program website, www.southalabama.edu/psychology/gradprogram.

NOAH LOGAN | STAFF REPORTER

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

Chinese exchange students finish summer camp at USA

COURTESY OF JAMES CONNOR

FUZC students meet with Mobile’s Azalea Trail Maids during a visit to the USA. By TIMOTHY BORLAND trb903@jagmail.southalabama.edu

his summer, a group of 22 freshman and sophomore students and two instructors from Zhicheng University Fuzhou College visited the University of South Ala-

bama as part of an ongoing academic exchange program between the two institutions. The exchange students attended three weeks of intensive English as a Second Language training at the USA English Language Center and the USAWriting Center. They also participated in courses such as academic

writing, U.S. culture and oral presentation. “In my opinion, the tremendous success of 2013 USA-FUZC Summer Camp will have long-term impacts,” FUZC Vice President Minchen Zhu said. “This summer camp will certainly be recognized as another milestone

of the academic interchange between USA and FUZC.” The group arrived in Mobile on July 12 and left Aug. 3 for a quick visit to Washington D.C. and New York on their way back to Fuzhou, China. During their visit, the guests stayed in the Delta 6 residence hall and ate most of their meals in the Fresh Food Co. dining facility. The group was also treated to an extensive series of tours and cultural events orchestrated by the USA Continuing Education staff. “The FUZC students visited many of our USA colleges, as well as oncampus attractions like Moulton Tower and the USA Archeology Museum,” Director of Continuing Education Marcy Matherne said. The exchange students spent free time at the recreation center and interacted with USA students. They also visited Gulf Shores, attended a Mobile city council meeting, met the mayor, shopped at Mobile’s Bel Air Mall and the Tanger Outlet Center in Foley, and dined at a number of local restaurants, including Wintzell’s Oyster House, Tacky Jack’s and the Fairhope Yacht Club. They even attended a Mobile BayBears game and threw out the first

pitch. “It is our hope that many of these students will return to USA and finish their degrees under academic agreements that we have in place with FUZC,” said Dr. Jim Connors, Associate Dean of Continuing Education and Acting Director of International Education. “Seven of the students have already said they plan to do just that.” For the next step in the partnership between the two schools, 22 South Alabama students will be sent to China for three weeks during Christmas break in order to study Chinese language and culture. Connors and Dr. Jingshan Huang, Assistant Professor in the School of Computing, are planning a life-changing experience for students who make the journey. This exchange promises to bring many more positive developments for the University. Many of the FUZC students who visited South’s campus have positive reactions to Mobile, Ala., and the local community. “The students miss Mobile a lot,” FUZC English Instructor Christy Lin said. “Now that we are back in China, we talk about Mobile all the time.”

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VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

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Presidential search committee eliminates all but six By STUART SOX sgsox@att.net

SAM ANDREWS | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Presidential Search Committee Chair Steve Furr and the rest of the committee continue to narrow the pool of presidential candidates.

fter meeting twice this summer, the Presidential Search Committee has selected six candidates out of the original 140 applicants to become the next president of the University of South Alabama. The R. William Funk & Associates search firm is working alongside the Presidential Search Committee to find a suitable president to replace longtime Gordon Moulton who retired on July 1. Dr. John Smith, Vice President of Student Affairs, will serve as the universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s president until a new one is selected. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a very strong pool of candidates that you have the opportunity to consider,â&#x20AC;? said Bill Funk of R. William Funk & Associates at the committeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s July 18 meeting. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Beginning these searches in the summer is sometimes an advantage because thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not as much competition. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a time of year when candidates can take a little longer to think about these positions and talk to us about these positions,â&#x20AC;? Funk said. A number of institutions have recently launched their own presidential searches, according to Funk. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have kind of missed that competition for talent that I expect to really begin in September and Octo-

ber,â&#x20AC;? Funk added. Schools that are or soon will be searching for new presidents include Penn State, the University of Michigan, Ohio State, the University of Pittsburgh, the University of Missouri, Tulane University and Clemson University, according to Funk. The six remaining candidates will be interviewed in New Orleans during the second week of September. Once the final three or four candidates are selected, the list will be presented to the Board of Trustees, which will either accept the committeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s candidates or completely reject them. During the most recent meeting on Aug. 8, the Presidential Search Committee eliminated many candidates based on their inexperience with athletic programs and medical schools. The final three or four candidates will be asked to travel to Mobile for a final round of interviews and to meet students, faculty and alumni. The committee will also conduct background checks for these candidates. The South Alabama community can expect the three or four finalists to be revealed sometime during September or October, according to Keith Ayers of South Alabama Public Relations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At that point our goal is to hold public

forums for these final candidates so that the faculty, students and the community can get an idea of who weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking at,â&#x20AC;? said Dr. Steve Furr, the Presidential Search Committee chairman. Students, faculty and anyone in the USA community can ask questions of the finalists. They will later be able to go online and send anonymous emails saying which candidates they do and do not like. The committee will take those emails and student reactions into consideration for who they hire as president.

jagLIFE

EMMA MITCHELL, JAGLIFE EDITOR eem1002@jagmail.southalabama.edu VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

USA resident rescues swimmer at YMCA By EMMA MITCHELL eem1002@jagmail.southalabama.edu

EMMA MITCHELL | JAGLIFE EDITOR

Braxton Orso chooses his lunch at the USA dining hall.

Underclassmen dining plans move to unlimited By MARY CAITLYN RODRIGUEZ mcr741993@hotmail.com

tarting this fall, the unlimited plan will be the universitywide meal plan at USA. Instead of having a set number of meals per week, students will be allowed to come in and out of the Dining Hall as needed. Michael Brown, Marketing Manager for ARAMARK in the Mobile Territory, stated that one recurring complaint they received was that students felt they were wasting money paying for a meal plan. They ended up using all their meals at the beginning of the week, or they didn’t use all of their meals for the week and ended up losing money because of that. To resolve these and other issues with dining

policies, Dining Services came up with the solution of unlimited meal plans. The purpose of this change is for students to be able to utilize the Dining Hall services as they would their own kitchens. Whether the goal is to come in and get a drink to take on the go, grab a meal to-go, or sit down and eat a meal with friends, Dining Services wants to give students the freedom to use what is provided for them as needed. From now on, there will be two different meal plans: the All-Access Jag Pass and the USA 7. The All-Access Jag Pass is geared more toward incoming freshmen and sophomores. It is an unlimited meal plan giving students the option to pick the number of Bonus Bucks they want. The USA 7 See Dining policy change Page 11

SA family medicine resident Dr. Aaron Morgan saved swimmer Sam Cockrell’s life after a formerly unknown heart problem rendered him breathless and in cardiac arrest. Sam Cockrell, a 16-year-old athlete and triathlon trainee, was practicing his freestyle set with his swim team at the YMCA in Daphne, Ala., when he realized something was wrong. Despite being well-acquainted with daily bouts of physical activity and having several years of swim training under his belt, Sam felt tired and slow and was having a hard time managing his heart rate. Sam was advised to get out of the pool by his coach, Jan Mittemeyer, who handed him a bottle of water and encouraged him to sit down. Mittemeyer had turned around for only a few seconds to attend to the rest of the team when Sam collapsed. Dr. Aaron Morgan, a third-year family medicine resident for South Alabama’s affiliated hospitals, was in the sauna across the pool. “I could not see or hear anything,” Dr. Morgan said in a recent interview. “I got out of the sauna only because my 30 minutes were up. As soon as I opened the door, I saw the commotion on the other side of the pool.” He continued, saying, “One of the trainers… knew I was a physician and waved me over. As I approached, I knew Sam was in trouble immediately.” Face down to the concrete surrounding the pool, Sam was almost lifeless. Assessing the situation, Dr. Morgan quickly determined Sam had an unusual breath pattern known as agonal breathing and, because Sam was unresponsive, declared him unconscious. “At that point, I cleared the area. I informed his coach that this was not a seizure and Sam was in cardiac arrest.” To further evaluate him, Dr. Morgan turned Sam onto his back. By then,

SAM ANDREWS | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Dr. Aaron Morgan (left) saved the life of 16-year-old Sam Cockrell (right). Sam’s face was blue, and he had no pulse. “I started CPR immediately. … [One] lifeguard assisted me with rescue breaths and did a great job. As I was doing chest compressions, the other lifeguards dried [Sam] off and we placed the AED pads. … We shocked him. We continued CPR and used the AED on 2 other occasions before the paramedics arrived,” Morgan said. Once there, the paramedics intubated Sam. His See YMCA swimmer rescue Page 11

Question of the Edition How much did you spend on books this semester?

Justin Cullifer Biomedical Science - Sophomore

Samantha Stanley Marketing - Senior

Bryan Lewis Civil Engineering - Freshman

Hannah Hayes Occupational Therapy - Junior

$350

$124

$644

$608

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

Subway to replace Delta Deli The Subway sandwich shop is expected to open by October 2013 By MARY CAITLYN RODRIGUEZ mcr741993@hotmail.com

s the new school year begins, one of the main changes on campus will be the renovation of the Delta Deli, which will now be a Subway. It is a change many students were not quick to celebrate. Britnee Todd, a junior majoring in cardiorespiratory care said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s OK that we are going to have a Subway, but it just doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make sense because of the Subway right across the street and the Quiznoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on campus.â&#x20AC;? The plans for the renovation of the Delta Deli, a decision based on student input, has been underway for the past five years. Beginning in 2008, multiple surveys were conducted to see what students wanted on campus. Michael Brown, Marketing Manager for ARAMARK in the Mobile Territory, stated that most of the surveys were done by walking up to students and asking them to take a quick survey on an iPod. The first survey consisted of questions pertaining to types of food (sandwiches, burgers, chicken, and so on) and the following survey narrowed the questions down to brand types. Brown reported that students chose sandwiches and Subway by a huge margin.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have done follow-up focus groups since then, but not particularly by brand,â&#x20AC;? Brown said. The decision for the Delta Deli location to be renovated needed to be made. As the campus community grew, the Deli became outdated. The facility was all electric and couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t handle any additional strain. There was no other option but to renovate. Brown reported that there are tentative plans to have the POD in the food court stay open later so that students have some sort of convenience store until the downstairs of the Student Center, where a convenience store will open, is completed in the spring. Eventually, another convenience store specifically for residential living will be located on the bottom floor of the Caf. The Subway is expected to be open by October 2013, and the hours will be 7 a.m. to 12 a.m. This isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the last renovation USAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s campus will see. The growth continues with a fully licensed Starbucks being added to the library this fall. Dean Mitchell stated, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dining services is always running ideas and looking for feedback.â&#x20AC;? If you are one of those students not impressed with the Subway joining our campus this Fall, get involved with Dining Services and give your input for future projects.

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

Get on Board Day Japanther to play at Music Box See what organizations USA has to offer its students Aug. 29. By EMMA MITCHELL eem1002@jagmail.southalabama.edu

ith the beginning of another great year at South underway, student organizations are getting ready for USAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Get on Board Day. Get on Board Day is designed for students of all ages and disciplines. The Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s primary goal in hosting this day each year is to introduce students to our organizations and help them get involved in the campus activities that best suit them. On Aug. 29, from 11 a.m. 2 p.m. around the Mitchell Center Concourse, some of the Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s almost-200 student organizations will be represented. They will also be prepared to answer questions and welcome new members. Student organization leaders are excited to get the word out about their clubs and have a good time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m really looking forward to seeing all the new students coming to south this year, while promoting my school club and hanging with all my friends,â&#x20AC;? Corey Lilly, computer

science senior said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As for expectations, I hope Get on Board will be as memorable as Jagfest was my freshman year, since my club could not attend this year. Due to vast selection, campus organizations are typically placed into one of five groups: faith-based organizations, Greek letter organizations, professional organizations, honor societies, and special interest organizations. Though the title is fairly self-explanatory, a brief description of each sub-group is as follows: Faith-based groups include all religious and religiously oriented groups. Greek letter organizations are directly associated with USAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sororities and fraternities. Professional organizations are usually career and professional school oriented. Honor societies usually have requirements including GPA restrictions, and may entail certain standards be kept. The special interest category comprises everything else, including hobbies and ethnic student groups. For a complete list of student organizations, go to www.southalabama.edu/studentactivities.

COURTESY OF AMBER B

Drummer Ian Vanek (left) and bassist Matt Reilly (right) will perform as Japanther Aug. 23 at Alabama Music Box. By STUART SOX sgsox@att.net

apanther, a two-piece indie punk rock band out of Brooklyn, N.Y., will perform at the Alabama Music Box on Friday, Aug. 23. Drummer Ian Vanek and bassist Matt Reilly are the duo that makes up Japanther. Both members of the band do vocals. Japanther was formed in 2001 while Vanek and Reilly were attending the

Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, N.Y. Since then, they have played live shows in all 50 states. The band has made a name for themselves with their unconventional and interesting live performances. Japanther has played on top of the Williamsburg Bridge in New York City, next to synchronized swimmers and BMX bikers, and out of the back of a moving truck. They even played on a rotating stage for 84 hours straight for a museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s art film.

Japanther released their fifth and latest album â&#x20AC;&#x153;Eat Like Lisa Act Like Bartâ&#x20AC;? in May to acclaim from SPIN, USA Today and other music publications. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are tremendously excited to write better and better music and super proud to call it our best album to date,â&#x20AC;? said Vanek in an interview with The Vanguard. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The praise on the album feels nice I guess, but we tend to operate outside of that. In the end what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to do is to communicate our ideas and concepts with others,â&#x20AC;? Vanek added. Japanther claims not to be influenced by other bands but rather the books they read and cartoons theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve watched. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We try to just let our subconscious be the guideâ&#x20AC;Ś we think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very important to maintain a childish nature in your attitude so that you can discover things and remain interested and excited about life and new experiences,â&#x20AC;? Vanek said. Japanther has played at the Alabama Music Box once before and had only praise for the venue. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a venue thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s run by musicians so they really know how to treat you,â&#x20AC;? Vanek commented. To listen to their music, visit www. japanther.com or their Soundcloud profile. Japantherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s music can also be purchased on iTunes. The Alabama Music Box is located on Dauphin Street in downtown Mobile.

U S A A L L I E D H E A LT H & N U R S I N G

CareerFair 11 a.m.-2 p.m. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Mitchell Center Waterman Globe Lobby

R5 .5 , 5 &."5 , 5 '*&)3 ,R5 ,/#.#(!5 ),5 /&&7.#' 5 '*&)3' (.5 ( 5 &#(# &Call USA Career Services for more details. Visit online for a complete list of employers.

, ,5 ,0# -5R5BhkgC5jlf7lgnn www.southalabama.edu/careerservices

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

Dining policy changes

EMMA MITCHELL | JAGLIFE EDITOR

Continued from Page 8.

is offered to juniors and seniors only and consists of seven meals per week with up to two meals each week that can roll over to the next if unused. Again, with the USA 7, the number of Bonus Bucks would be up to the purchaser. The number of guest passes has also changed from one per week to a total of 10 guest passes per meal plan, and parents always eat free. Compared with past meal plans, the total price increase was only $50. Dean Mitchell reported that the price increase was due to the growing food costs for ARAMARK. “Even if the plans had remained unchanged, it is likely that the price adjustments would have been needed to cover the rising costs of food,” Mitchell said. As students take advantage of their unlimited

meal plans this semester, another thing to notice is the new Health and Wellness Wall located just inside the entrance of the Dining Hall. This is also a product of student feedback. Brown states that students repeatedly mentioned that they wanted healthier options as well as help with making healthier decisions. The Health and Wellness Wall is a touch-screen device that will inform students about making smarter choices about what to eat. Information will also be provided at the food stations. The Office of Dining Services is always looking for student feedback. For more information on how to provide your input on dining decisions, email Craig Stephan at Stephan-Craig@aramark. com.

YMCA swimmer rescue Continued from Page 8.

mother, Amy Cockrell, who was just a few miles away at her younger children’s swim practice, arrived shortly after the paramedics. “I got to the YMCA about 9 minutes after the coach called me. … [Sam’s coach] initially thought that Sam was having a seizure, and told me they had called 911. None of my kids had any kind of a seizure disorder, so I was just kind of in shock. … I knew it must be something serious,” Mrs. Cockrell said. After 20 full minutes of CPR, multiple AED shocks, and several administered medications, Sam finally began breathing on his own in the ambulance on the way to Thomas Hospital in Fairhope, Ala. Sam was sent from Thomas Hospital to USA

Women’s & Children’s Hospital. From there, Sam was airlifted to Children’s of Alabama in Birmingham, where doctors determined he had a defective electrical node in his heart. Doctors were able to correct this with a pacemaker. Remarkably, Sam had no brain or organ damage despite not breathing for 20 minutes. Since the incident, Sam and his family have become more enlightened on how severe sudden cardiac arrest is. Initially, people who experience sudden cardiac arrest have a 5 percent chance of survival. If CPR and advanced life support are provided immediately following the arrest, and paramedics arrive swiftly, survival chances increase to more than 60 percent, Timing means everything. “Fast care was critical and I knew [Sam] got it,” noted Mrs. Cockrell. “The fact that Dr. Morgan started CPR immediately, and the AED was available, and the paramedics arrived fast all played a role in Sam’s miraculous outcome.” Mrs. Cockrell also said that she would like to encourage everyone to learn CPR, as it was key in saving her son’s life. Although his life has not completely returned to normal athletically, Sam has readjusted thanks to the help of friends and family. He urges anyone experiencing an uncontrollable heart rate, unusual tiredness, or any other odd symptoms to “take it seriously,” and he considers himself “very lucky” to have survived this event. As for his future plans, Sam hopes to attend the University of South Alabama to pursue a career in engineering. Thanks to one of our ready-to-act medical residents, he is alive to do it.

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

START CLIMBING HIGH HIGHER.

START TOUCHING LIVES.

START BECOM MING A LEADER.

START HELPING OTHERS.

START ACCOMPLIS SHIN NG MORE.

START MAKING A DIFFERENCE. START FEELING INSPIRED.

START STRONG. SM

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VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

Predictions for the first half of the 2013 season Sports writer Samuel Brown gives a detailed look into how the season will play out for the Jags By SAMUEL BROWN sjb1102@jagmail.southalabama.edu

Week 1: vs. Southern Utah Last season, as an FCS member, Southern Utah went 5-6 overall, including 4-4 in their first season as a member of the Big Sky Conference. More importantly, Southern Utah has to replace their record setting quarterback, Brad Sorensen, who was drafted in the seventh round of this year’s NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers. They brought in junior college transfer Aaron Cantu to replace Sorensen, in hopes of repeating his prolonged success. I don’t believe that will be the case, because a team such as Southern Utah only gets NFL talent every so often. The only possible problem I could see South Alabama having during this game is stopping the combination of Aaron Cantu and wide receiver Fatu Moala, who led the team last season with 65 receptions and 910 receiving yards. Regardless, that will not be enough to keep the Thunderbirds in the game. Players to Watch: QB Aaron Cantu, WR Fatu Moala, OL Gavin Farr, DE James Cowser, LB Zak Browning and LB Chad Hansen. Prediction: South Alabama 35 Southern Utah 14 Week 2: @ Tulane Last season was a disappointing year for the Green Wave, as they finished 2-10 in Curtis Johnson’s first year as head coach after coming from the New Orleans Saints, where he served as the wide receivers coach. The Green Wave welcome in two transfers, quarterback Nick Montana and defensive tackle Chris Davenport from LSU, who are expected to play a huge role this season. Montana, the son of Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana, is expected to replace quarterback Ryan Griffin, who is second on Tulane’s all-time career passing list. As a whole, the offensive line was the weakest unit on the team. They were 95th in the country in sacks allowed. The receiving core is talented, though, bringing back every receiver from last season. That includes first team All-Conference USA wide receiver Ryan Grant, who led the Green Wave with 1,149 yards receiving. The combination of Montana and Grant could be deadly, but that is if Montana has time to throw. I believe the Jaguars’ defensive line, led by senior defensive end Alex Page, will get to Montana just enough to be the slight difference in the game. Players to Watch: QB Nick Montana, WR Ryan Grant, RB

ALYSSA NEWTON | LOC EDITOR

Brandon Bridge is looking to become the starting quarterback in 2013. Orleans Darkwa, DT Chris Davenport and CB Lorenzo Doss. Prediction: South Alabama 27 Tulane 24 Week 3: vs. Western Kentucky Western Kentucky looked well on their way to a Sun Belt Championship after they started last season 5-1, but down the stretch, Western Kentucky lost five out of their last seven games, including a loss in their first ever bowl game against Central Michigan. They hired a big name coach in Bobby Petrino. Petrino has brought success, highlighted by a high-powered offense, everywhere he has landed. WKU loses quarterback Kawaun Jakes, but return first team All-Sun Belt running back Antonio Andrews, who was eighth in all of college football last season with 1,684 rushing yards. Also, the offensive line will be a strength this season, as three starters return from last season. On the defensive side of the football, most importantly, they return senior linebacker Andrew Jackson, who could be the best overall player in the conference. WKU loses all four starters off the defensive line from last season, including Quanterus Smith. The key for South Alabama is to successfully run the football. If they can accomplish that, they could keep this game close and pull off the upset. Players to Watch: RB Antonio Andrews, WR Willie McNeal, LB Andrew Jackson, LB Xavier Boyd, FS Jonathan Dowling and SS Kiante Young. Prediction: Western Kentucky 31 South Alabama 24 Week 5: @ Tennessee Yes, Tennessee is in the midst of

the worst state of their football program in the modern era. Yes, they lost their top three skill position players to the NFL. Yes, this will be a transitional year for first-year head coach Butch Jones. But, they do have raw talent all over the field, SEC size and the best offensive line in the SEC. Tennessee loses quarterback Tyler Bray and wide receivers Cordarrelle Patterson and Justin Hunter to the NFL Draft, while bringing back their top two running backs, Rajion Neal and Marlin Lane. The returning defense will be solid, tool, as they bring back eight starters, led by first team All-SEC linebacker AJ Johnson and first team All-SEC defensive tackle Daniel McCullers. Because they’re losing a talented starting quarterback along with their top five receivers, it will be tough to repeat a 3,000 yard season through the air. In all honesty, if you combine experience and talent, I believe South Alabama has the edge in the skill position battle, but the game will be lost in the trenches. Players to Watch: RB Marlin Lane, RB Rajion Neal, LT Antonio Richardson, C James Stone, DT Daniel McCullers, LB AJ Johnson and SS Byron Moore. Prediction: Tennessee 35 South Alabama 14 Week 6: @ Troy Last season, our rivals, the Troy Trojans, had a disappointing season as they finished with five wins, barely missing out on bowl eligibility. Although this team had seven losses a season ago, six out of the seven losses came by seven points or fewer. On offense, Troy returns only four starters. Most importantly, they

return senior quarterbacks Corey Robinson and Deon Anthony. Corey Robinson is one of the best pure passers in the Sun Belt, while Deon Anthony is one of the biggest threats on the ground at the quarterback position. They make a great quarterback duo in Larry Blakeney’s spread offense, putting up a combined 3,978 yards through the air along with 22 touchdowns. Aside from the quarterback position, Troy brings back only two out of their top six receivers. The biggest question mark on the offense is the run game. Troy loses their top three running backs from a year ago and has only one returning offensive lineman. With this being the case, expect most of the run game this season to come from quarterback Deon Anthony, who was second on the team last season with 446 rushing yards. The defense brings the biggest question mark on this entire team, with a huge chunk of talent leaving, returning only five starters. The back seven is the biggest issue on defense for the Trojans. Three of their projected starters in the secondary were injured during spring practice but are optimistic to be in full-health at the beginning of the season. Tyler Roberts, the lone returning linebacker from a year ago, is moving to defensive end, so this will be a transitional year for him as well. They have a couple of guys with the potential to get to the quarterback, but if they fail to do so, it will be a long season for the Trojan’s defense. I believe Corey Robinson will have some success throwing the football against the Jaguars, but I see our defensive line holding their run game

close to nothing. Players to Watch: QB Corey Robinson, QB Deon Anthony, WR Eric Thomas, LT Terrence Jones, DE Tyler Roberts and CB Chris Pickett. Predictions: South Alabama 38 Troy 34 Week 8 vs. Kent State Kent State, the football team that had only one bowl appearance in history leading up to last season and led by two 1,000 rushers in running backs Trayion Durham and Dri Archer, came one overtime short of a BCS Bowl appearance last season. A few months later and with new head coach Paul Hayes, the Kent State faithful are optimistic about their program going forward as they are coming off their best season in program history. Despite bringing back both talented rushers, expect a small drop in production on offense as they have to replace their starting quarterback and three offensive linemen from last season. On the other hand, the defense couldn’t stop opponents from gaining yards through the air or on the ground. The defense allowed 3,808 through the air and 1,936 yards on the ground. From that group, they return only five starters, which could be a good thing for Kent State. Most importantly, the defense brings back defensive tackle Roosevelt Nix, arguably the best defensive player in program history. The key is finding someone else alongside Nix to help plug the middle allowing the linebackers to get in the backfield, but that has been a struggle and it’s not clear if they will have someone this year to do so. Also, they return starting free safety Luke Wollet who was second on the team with 119 tackles. However, it’s not a good thing when your second leading tackler is a free safety. Kent State will have to replace linebacker Luke Batton, who led the team with 143 tackles last season. Despite the expected drop off, I still think this is a solid Kent State football team that will give South Alabama fits, particularly in the ground game. I believe they will control the clock and avoid making mistakes while creating turnovers, giving them a close victory over the Jaguars. Players to Watch: RB Trayion Durham, RB Dri Archer, WR Josh Boyle, DT Roosevelt Nix, SS Luke Wollet and CB Darius Polk. Prediction: Kent State 34 South Alabama 24 Next week’s issue will feature the second half of the Jaguars 2013 season predictions from Samuel Brown

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

Jaguar football position-by-position breakdown By JT CRABTREE

jtc804@jagmail.southalabama.edu

Quarterbacks The captain of the team. One of the most important players on the field, and every year for South Alabama it seems that there is a battle deciding who will be the field general going into the season. The 2013 season will be no different. This year the battle for the number one spot is between returning starter Ross Metheny, a senior who transferred from Virginia before the 2012 season, and Brandon Bridge, a junior in his first year of eligibility after transferring from Alcorn State a year ago. Each quarterback spent time during spring practice taking reps with the first team offense, and were opposing starters during the spring game. Metheny brings a high football IQ and an accurate arm to the playing field. Bridge brings big play potential, with a cannon for an arm and the ability to pull down the ball and run up field. Behind Bridge and Metheny, Trey Fetner, Grant Powell and freshman Brett Sheehan are all pushing for the backup spots. Fetner, South’s own version of Tim Tebow, could still see the field in certain packages. Sheehan will most likely be redshirted this season. Running Backs One of the deeper positions on the

roster, running backs will not be hard to come by this season. Even with their leading rusher from last season, Demetre Baker, no longer on the team, the Jags should have no problem running the ball. Jay Jones saw time with the first team offense in the spring and has continued to have success in the fall. Junior college transfer Cris Dinham has arrived this fall and impressed the coaching staff, possibly positioning himself for some early playing time. Junior Kendall Houston will also see plenty of time in the backfield, if he can remain healthy. Terrence Timmons and Julian Valentin will see the field a good bit as well. A decision will be made soon on whether or not freshman Kaleb Blanchard will be redshirted this coming season. However, the four-star recruit from Denham Springs, La., could make the decision a little harder if he shows he is already prepared to play at the FBS. Wide Receivers/Tight Ends Easily the deepest position on the team, the wide receivers will have plenty of production divvied up among them. As many as six different players could be slated as a starter come Week 1. Senior Bryant Lavender returns for his fifth season as a Jaguar. The Gulfport, Miss., native was awarded the No. 5 jersey by his teammates this season, an honor given to the team captain before each season. Senior Corey Besteda and junior Jereme Jones both bring big play, but in

different capacities. Besteda, standing at 6-foot-3, provides a jump-ball candidate for deep passes, while Jones, a shorter 5-foot-8, is possibly the quickest wide receiver on the roster. TJ Glover, Shavarez Smith and Corey Waldon all will see time. Smith, another JUCO transfer, has impressed the coaching staff since joining the program in the spring. But perhaps the newest name that will see the most time is Alabama transfer Danny Woodson Jr. Woodson, who recently had a waiver approved to play immediately this season, provides another target for South Alabama quarterbacks and should have an immediate impact on offense. At tight end, Wes Saxton leads the group after Greg Hollinger left the program. Saxton is a big body who plays like a wide receiver, pulling in 26 passes last season. Rush Hendricks, Ryan Onkka and Kyle Sappington will all see the field in reserve roles. Offensive Line It is well-documented that the offensive line struggled in 2012, but the Jags hope to fix those problems this season. Chris May, only a sophomore, has another season under his belt and enters this year as a starter for the second year in a row. Drew Dearman returns at left guard. Shaun Artz, Steven Foster, Darius McKeller and Ucambre Williams are all fighting for playing time at various positions on the offensive line. A big change

will be at center, where we will have someone not named Trey Clark start at the position for the first time in school history. So far, senior Matt Calcagnini and redshirt freshman Joseph Scelfo are battling for the spot. Defensive Line Senior Alex Page will lead the defensive line, holding down the end position of the line. Romelle Jones, Randon Carnathan and JUCO transfer Jerome McClain will see plenty of time at the tackle positions. Montavious Williams has caught the eye of head coach Joey Jones who said, “He looks quicker, faster.” Caesare Johnson will return after sitting out last season with a blood clot and should contribute consistently. Linebackers Even though Jake Johnson has graduated, the linebackers will be a bright spot for the defense. They will be led by Mobile native Enrique Williams, who had 105 tackles last season playing beside Johnson at middle linebacker. Bryson James and Desmond LaVelle will battle for time as the other inside linebacker. Clifton Crews will return for his year of duty at outside linebacker. Pat Moore returns to the Jack position, a hybrid of outside linebacker and defensive end. Maleki Harris has impressed the coaching staff with his play so far this fall, acting as a safety and linebacker hybrid, similar to what Ken Barefield played two years ago. Also expect

Brandon Keel and David Hawkins to see the field this year. Defensive Backs Darrius Morrow and Tyrell Pearson return to anchor the cornerback positions, with Pearson getting a preseason All-Sun Belt nod. Montell Gardner, Anthony Harris and Qudarius Ford, who is returning from an injury last season, will all add plenty of depth and talent to a veteran coverage team. BJ Scott isn’t around anymore, but senior Charles Harris is back after redshirting last season. Terrell Brigham and Charles Watson are two veterans who are battling for the other safety spot. Some new names for the Jags are the Fuller brothers, Steven and Steffon. Twins from Scooba, Miss., the Fuller brothers both play safety and both should see playing time this year in a reserve role. Special Teams Special teams are often an overlooked aspect of a team. Michel Chapaseuax has graduated, and now the job will go to one of several underclassmen. Aleem Sunanon, Logan Gunn and Brandon McKee are all trying to fill various roles as kicker. Sunanon will likely be the placekicker, while McKee and Gunn are competing for the kickoff role. McKee is also pushing senior Scott Garber for the punter’s job. On returns, expect TJ Glover, Jereme Jones, Jay Jones and Shavarez Smith to all see time returning kicks and punts.

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

JT Crabtree, Sports Editor

Alyssa Newton, LOC Sports Editor

Patrick Herring, Sports Reporter

Jayson Curry, Sports Reporter

Game 1: vs. Southern Utah 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 29

The Jags start the new Southern Utah finished 2012 with a I see the Jaguars starting off the season with a This is a different team than in years past. This is a new South Alabama team, and I think they show win. The 2012 stats may be close for both teams, but 5-6 record with a predominantly FCS season with a victory and get here against their only FCS opponent this season. this is not the team we watched last year. Jags win schedule. This one should be a good the season started out right. warm-up game for the Jags to shake off USA 31-17 their season opener 21-7. Jags win 31-10. the cobwebs. USA wins 31-13.

Game 2: at Tulane 2:30 p.m. Sept. 7

USA pulls of the second Tulane returns exactly as many starters I think it will be a close game, but with the home Tulane has been down for years, just in time for South to come into the Superdome and win their field advantage in the Superdome, this is the game I from last season as USA does (17). The win of the season and beats Jags will travel well, and the fan support the Green Wave 27-10. first ever FBS road game. It’ll be close, but Jags win think the Jags will have their first loss 28-14. will be crucial. USA ekes out a victory, 21-17. 38-31.

Game 3: vs. Western Kentucky 6:30 p.m. Sept. 14

The Hilltoppers ruin the WKU will likely be coming off WKU is a tough team, and even though the Jags Western Kentucky is a good team, and with Bobby Petrino in control now, they could be even have home field advantage, it won’t be easy. I predict demoralizing losses against SEC foes Jags win streak. WKU 35-28 better than last year. The Hilltoppers end the quest it will be a close game, but the Jaguars will lose 24- Kentucky and Tennessee when they come to Mobile, so their morale will be low and 14. for a perfect season and win 34-20. the Jaguars will pounce. USA wins 28-17.

Game 4: at Tennessee TBA Sept. 28

Even with Tennessee being a little beaten up While there is a chance that Tennessee comes out flat after playing Oregon and Florida on the road two after the road to Oregon and Florida, I see this game weeks in a row before playing South, that chance is being much like the Mississippi game last season. South can take this game if they really want it. Vols slim. The Jags will drop this one 34-13. win 34-14.

South plays the second USA travels to play its second SEC foe in as many seasons. Last year’s game in SEC opponent in as many Starkville was closer than many expected. years and fall short of a win. The Jaguars will play well early, but as the Vols 42-20. game wears on UT will run away with it. Vols win 41-17.

Game 5: at Troy 12:00 p.m. Oct. 5

Last year’s first game between the two teams was The Troy-USA rivalry game should be a different match than last year’s drumming by the Trojans. a miserable one in all aspects; weather, calls and Respect is on the line here, and I think the Jags win outcome of the game. The Jags will travel to Troy, leaving the wooden horse to hide behind and shame27-20. lessly take the win from the Trojans 27-14.

USA struggles after a This rivalry has only one game in the books and already it is one of the most tough game against the Vols anticipated games on the schedule. The and fall to conference rival Jags still have a bitter taste from the home Troy 24-21. loss last year and look to exact revenge. Jags win in overtime 35-28.

Game 6: vs. Kent State TBA Oct. 19

With Tennessee and Troy back to back and more South is undefeated all-time on Homecoming, and even picked up their first ever FBS win against than a month of not playing at home, I see the FAU last year in double overtime. Kent State’s Jaguars suffering another loss to the Golden Flashes running game is deadly, probably too much for the 27-14. Jags to slow down. The Golden Flashes win 31-21.

The Jags’ losing streak Kent State returns only 11 starters from last year’s squad. The contest in 2011 was continues with a tough loss close, expect the same this go round. The to the Golden Flashes. Kent outcome will be different, however. USA 27-10. gets a homecoming victory 35-27.

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

JT Crabtree, Sports Editor

Alyssa Newton, LOC Sports Editor

Patrick Herring, Sports Reporter

Jayson Curry, Sports Reporter

Game 7: at Texas State 6:00 p.m. Oct. 26

Jags play hard and get Texas State is a newcomer to the SBC and, like USA, is also I think that by this time South Alabama’s Former Alabama head coach Dennis Franchione runs the Bobcats. However, the Jags football team will have matured and be able in its second FBS season. Last year they gave up 33.5 per game the third W of the year. are a deeper and more experienced team, and I to read and communicate better than we have on defense. USA will air it out and give the Bobcats a rude wel- USA 36-17. seen in past seasons. This is a game I hope come to the conference. USA wins 41-24. think they win 24-17. to see the Jags take and add to the W’s. Jags win 34-21.

Game 8: vs, Arkansas State TBA Nov. 2

Arkansas State was able to hold off the Jags’ comeback last year, but despite losing starting quarterback Ryan Aplin, they still should be a solid team. So much so that I think they will beat the Jags 35-27.

Last year Arkansas State won the Sun Belt conference after a 10-3 season. But they narrowly slid past the Jaguars at home by a touchdown. The crowd will be loud at Ladd-Peebles, and without Malzahn roaming the sidelines, the Red Wolves don’t stand a chance. USA upsets ASU 31-27.

USA pulls off the huge conference upset and beat the defending conference champions. USA 24-20.

Game 9: at Navy 2:30 p.m. Nov. 16

There’s a good chance this will be a cold game in November It may be just the fact that they are part of The last time the Jags faced the option it wasn’t pretty, losing 41-10 to Cal Poly to end the the United States military, but I see Navy in Maryland when the Jaguars meet Navy. South Alabama will be 2011 season. This game probably won’t be much taking the win from South Alabama. Our boys a little out of their element. They drop their second game of the are good, but Navy has an incredible history season as the Midshipmen prevail 41-31. better. Navy wins 37-14. behind them. Navy wins 34-7.

The Jags struggle with the Navy offense like most teams do against the Midshipmen. Navy 31-13.

If the Jags are able to pull out a win against Texas State I see no problem in them adding Arkansas State to the list of losers. The Jags win in a close, nail-biting game at home. Jags win 21-14.

Game 10: vs. The Jags offense Louisiana-Monroe placed five players on the SBC Preseason They had a good season last year. It’ll be a The Warhawks downed some big names last UL-Monroe year, and they still have quarterback Kolten closer one than last year but a strong second All-Conference team, including senior quarterback Kolton struggle against the 6:30 p.m. Browning. The air attack will be a tad too much for USA to Monroe defense. Jags fall Browning to make that happen. I think they beat half will have ULM winning 34-21. Nov. 23 handle as they drop their second straight game for the first time 20-3. the Jags 34-21. in 2013. ULM wins 45-27. Game 11: at The out-of-state Georgia State’s football program has been around for exactly Easiest one on the list. Georgia State has GSU was terrible in 2012, going 1-10 in FCS Georgia State play. The Jags should destroy the Panthers this majorly struggled as a football program. as long as South Alabama’s, but with a little less to show for it. rivals don’t make it easy, 12:00 p.m. The all-time series is split at a game apiece. South Alabama wins but the Jags pull out a South Alabama takes an easy win 34-14. year, and I say they will, 35-13. Nov. 30 this one, but like the other two contests, it’ll be close. USA 30-27. victory. USA 24-21.

Game 12: vs. ULLafayette TBA Dec. 7

ULL will be favored, The Ragin’ Cajuns ran roughshod through the Jaguar defense This will be one of the hardest in conferThe Ragin’ Cajuns offense has tons of big play potential, shown by putting up 52 points ence opponents for USA. It will be a close last year to the tune of 52 points. I don’t see that happening but the Jags finish off again, especially not with South at home. It will be close, but the the season with win and against South last year. I’ve got South losing on game, but I see USA losing 24-17. a .500 record. USA 27Jaguars will still fall, 37-31. Senior Night 41-27. 26.

LEFT OF CENTER

ALYSSA NEWTON, LOC EDITOR akn1104@jagmail.southalabama.edu VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

Want us to follow you? Tweet us @USAVGSports Logun Gunn @Logunn15: Kicker I smacked him on top of the head with a Gatorade bottle at least 20 times. Can’t feel a thing lookin boy. Drew Dearman @Heavistotle: Offensive lineman Don’t you hate when your charger grows legs and walks off COURTESY OF SOUTH ALABAMA INTRAMURALS

With fall around the corner, flag football registration begins in late September.

USA’s intramural sports on their way Ways to compete, meet and promote a healthy lifestyle By ALYSSA NEWTON akn1104@jagmail.southalabama.edu

ot all of us were made to throw a football like Ross Metheny or hit a baseball like Jordan Patterson, but for those of us who like to play sports anyway, that’s where Intramurals comes in. South Alabama Intramurals offer organized sports that all current students, faculty and alumni are welcome to play. A group can choose to play as an all-female team, all-male team or choose to play as a co-ed team with both women and men. You can join a team with your sorority or fraternity, your campus ministry, your club or organization, or you can just get a few friends together and make a team of your own. “We have over 1500 students play intramurals during the week when intramurals start,” said Intramural Sports Coordinator Brian Allred. “It’s a great way to get away from the daily grind of college and your classes and relieve a lot of stress by coming out here and play-

ing some sports.” Different sports are offered during the fall and spring semesters as well as a couple during the summer. The fall sports registrations start in September or late October. The three main sports intramurals offers are flag football, soccer and inner tube water polo. In the spring, intramurals offers sports such as basketball, softball and volleyball.

“

It’s a great way to meet new people and become closer to those you know. - junior Averie Trout

”

But the intramural staff is always open to new ideas and different sports. “We try to rotate from year to year adding new sports. If a student is interested in a sport, call or come by the field house and make a suggestion. We had

someone one year want to do ultimate Frisbee and we ended up with about sixteen teams,” Allred said. With 1500 students every year playing intramural sports, many students have found their niches here at South. “Flag football was the first thing I did to start being involved at South,” said junior Averie Trout talking about how her experience with intramurals helped her become a member of The Wesley Foundation. “It’s a great way to meet new people and become closer to those you know. It gives students something to look forward to during the school week.” Jimena Bellido, public relations major, also enjoys playing intramurals. “I played my first intramural game sophomore year,” said Bellido. “It was a fun experience and I made new friends. Playing is a great way of keeping in shape while having fun.” Intramural games go from Monday to Thursday and start after 6:30 p.m. and have their latest games no later than 9:30 p.m. Registration will begin for flag football in late September to early

October. If you have any questions about intramurals or would be interested in starting a new fall intramural sport, contact the intramurals office from 2-6 p.m.

Test Your South Sports Smarts Intamurals Edition

Ben Whiteside @B_Whiteside88: Wide receiver I just ate a pound of jambalaya, what the hell is wrong with me.. Jerome McClain @RomeInTheHouse Defensive Tackle We have a hellified team #SunBeltTakeover Brandon Boyle @BrandonBoyle08: Pitcher Listening to the Pitch Perfect soundtrack right now with my mom... #ThanksMom haha Chris May @cmayfive5: Offensive lineman Football for nearly 14 hours a day will really make you reevaluate your life lol. Rush Hendricks @_RusHen_: Tight End

1) In flag football, how many players are on a co-rec team?

Didn’t have to get up at 5:20... Didn’t have to take a community shower... It’s already a good day!

2) How many former varsity basketball atheletes are allowed on a team roster for basketball?

Brandon Bridge @Air_Canada_7: Quarterback Play like a champion. Train like an underdog.

3) How long do softball games last? 4) In soccer, how are overtime winners deternined?

@USAVGSports

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

‘Fanatical effort and tempo’ South Alabama media day Jaguars talk of wins and bowl games for the upcoming football season By: ALYSSA NEWTON akn1104@jagmail.southalabama.edu

n Tuesday, Aug. 13, four South Alabama studentathletes sat down in front of cameras, recorders and reporters to talk about the upcoming season. Last year, the Jaguars finished 2-11 overall and only 1-7 in their conference play. At the Sun Belt Media day, it was announced that the Jaguars are ranked seventh in the Sunbelt Conference this year. The media had a chance to sit down with players and coaches and ask them about what they see coming this year for the South Alabama’s fifth season. The day started off with defensive side interviews with Enrique Williams and Alex Page, both fifth year seniors. These were the highlights of their interviews. Statements on expectations for this season as their final year: AP: “We’ve been building up for this year since we started in 2009. We’ve been working hard and our expectations are high. This will be the biggest year for

the program. With us bowl-eligible this year, we are looking to make a bowl this year and win the Sun Belt. Those are our two goals.” EW: “This year we have a lot of senior leadership, so on defense we have a lot of expectations. We want to be the number one defense in the Sun Belt. We just want to go out and work hard every day.” When asked about the evolution of the program since last year’s 2-11 record. AP: “This is definitely a big year for our team. We have the players to completely flip this season around. Our expectations are high for this season. You always have high expectations into a season no matter what your previous season was like. That’s just motivation for us. We don’t want the past to occur again. We want to improve.” EW: “As a defensive and a team, we go in expecting to win every game no matter who the opponent is. Defensively we were ranked second or third in the conference last year and this year we have our sights set on being the

number one defense in the Sun Belt. I think we can accomplish that goal with the leadership and the players we have in our program.” Next, offensive players senior Bryant Lavender and sophomore Chris May sat down and opened with their excitement level and expectations for the season.

“

Our goal is to win twelve games and go bowling. That’s the goal and that’s what we’re gonna stick to. - Bryant Lavender

”

BL: “As an offense our goal is to play with fanatical effort and tempo to become an explosive offense. The expectations are high from us as well as the coaches, because we want to show ourselves and everyone that we are an explosive offense and we do have playmakers.”

CM: “We have very high expectations for ourselves and we have a lot of seniors on this team, a lot of leadership, and this is our second year in this offense. Our defense has been making plays all over the field. We have high expectations for our bowl eligible year. We are shooting to win the Sun Belt and make it to a bowl game” When asked about the goal number of wins for this season: CM: “All of them. I feel like we have the talent to beat everyone on our schedule.” BL: “I mean, fanatical effort and tempo. You name a defense that can handle fanatical effort and tempo every play and stop it every play. I don’t see one. They all have trouble with it. Texas A&M, the Oregons they do it every game, they put people in binds. Our goal is to make defensive mix matches by not letting the defense line up. Our goal is to win twelve and go bowling. That’s our goal and that’s what we are gonna stick to.” Head Coach Joey Jones echoed this same attitude when talking

about the upcoming season for the Jaguars. JJ: “We expect to win every game. Winning six games and going to a bowl game would be pretty incredible, I would like to win more than that. I don’t want to put a lid on what our opportunities are, I just know that we are a better team. We are going to go challenge each team and try to win every ball game and see where it goes.” The Jaguars have their first chance to display their “fanatical effort and tempo” at their season opener on Aug. 29 at Ladd-Peebles Stadium against Southern Utah.

Test Your South Sports Smarts Intamurals Edition Answers

1) eight 2) one 3) 50 minutes/ 7 innings 4) shootout

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

USA names Willimsen assistant basketball coach Willimsen joins Jaguars basketball program

Russ Willimsen Assistant Basketball Coach

By ALYSSA NEWTON akn1104@jagmail.southalabama.edu

uss Willemsen has been hired as the assistant men’s basketball coach at South Alabama. Willemsen spent eight seasons at Tennessee Tech where the Golden Eagles won more than 19 games in four of those eight seasons and made an appearance in the College Insider.com Postseason Tournament in the 2011-12 season. “We are very excited to add Russ to the South Alabama basketball family,”

said head coach Matthew Graves. “He is very diligent, organized and passionate about the game of basketball. Russ will really enhance our ability to recruit in the Southeast with his ties and experience to the area.” Willemsen is from Rushville, N.Y., where he played basketball and football at Marcus Whitman High School before attending Lee University in 1999. He was the team manager for Lee’s basketball program until his junior year when he moved up to student assistant coach. Willemsen graduated with a degree in physical education and history with minors in religion and coaching. While at Lee University, he was part of teams that reached the NAIA Sweet 16 and Elite Eight, and he worked with five NAIA All-Americans during his six years on the staff. Willeman then went to Tennessee Tech after serving as assistant coach at Lee University, and now takes Ronald Nored’s place after leaving in July for the Boston Celtics organization.

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

Design a flexible, individualized bachelor's degree tailored to your goals. Maximize use of your previous college, transfer and military credits. Focus on three disciplines of study for a major instead of just one. Select an internship or research thesis based on your own interests.

The Chronicle of Higher Education lists I n t e r d i s c i p l i n a ry S t u d i e s as one of the most popul ar majors in the c ountry. Meet with an advis or to find out why!

YOUR DEGREE...YOUR WAY!

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

Horoscopes Aries 3/21-4/20 Your adventurous spirit will get you in trouble this week. Remember, it is perfectly acceptable to climb the rock wall at the Rec Center. It is not OK to rappel from the top of Moulton Tower. Taurus 4/21-5/21 Your compassionate nature will lead you to make new friends; the squirrels of South will follow you anywhere if you feed them. Same thing goes for roommates.And grad students. Gemini 5/22-6/21 Your 8 a.m. class looks impressive, but let’s be honest. An early morning class is the scourge of the perpetually tardy. Maybe it’s time to consider online learning? Nothing says education like responding to forum topics in your boxers at 11 p.m. on a Saturday night. Cancer 6/22-7/23 Homesick already? Start looking at your roommates as extended family.You know … like your eccentric cousin Marvin with the disturbing fixations on Miley Cyrus and pillow pets. Leo 7/24-8/23 The early bird catches the worm and the choice space in the central parking lot. Not an early riser? Pitch a tent, light a campfire and be the envy of all the losers circling the lot every morning. Virgo 8/24-9/23 Try to keep in mind that not everyone is as organized as you.You deserve the strange looks when you pull out your three hole punch in class to organize your syllabus and handouts on the first day of class. Extra dirty looks when you ask about the first homework assignment. Libra 9/24-10/23 People are normally drawn to your sunny demeanor. At 8 am before their first cup This is a work of fiction meant for entertainment.

of coffee? Not so much. Save your cheerful greetings until after 11 a.m. when caffeine levels are at their optimum level. Scorpio 10/22-11/22 All of your friends know you are trustworthy.They confide in you. You should start keeping a diary discreetly tracking all of their hook-ups and indiscretions. If any of them become famous, you will have plenty of material for a best selling tell-all. Sagittarius 11/23-12/21 Let your freak flag fly. Request fish fingers and custard in the dining hall. Order tea, Earl Grey, hot at Einstein Bagels or Starbucks. Blare “Carry on My Wayward Son” while eating a whole pie in the Humanities courtyard. Just make sure you are wearing your Spock ears and Hobbit slippers. Capricorn 12/22-1/20 Feeling inspired by the bridge behind the student center, you will decide to engage in a little cosplay. After rolling in mud, you demand fellow students tell you their name, their quest and the airspeed velocity of an unladen swallow. FYI, the university frowns on throwing the ones who get the answers wrong off the bridge. Aquarius 1/21-2/19 Frustrated by the price of tuition and books, you and several of your friends will establish a settlement in the middle of the round about subsisting only on rain water, acorns and food scavenged from students walking to class. Pisces 2/20-3/20 Like a fish out of water, you feel out of place. Rest easy. For the ladies, a pair of wellies, running shorts and a Jansport backpack will make you blend right in. For the gents, a pair of Costa sunglasses, a Columbia shirt and a big truck that even your mother will have a hard time picking you out of a line-up.

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

Student Discounts Restaurants

Jimmy John’s Loca on: 6920 Airport Blvd Ste 115 Phone: 251-414-5444 Discount: 10% oﬀ, limited to not more than 1 combo meal (sandwich, side, drink) per person. Not valid with other discounts/oﬀers or with delivery.

Buck’s Pizza Loca on: 8155 B Co age Hill Rd. Phone: 251-633-7737 Mellow Mushroom Discount: Medium 1-topping pizza Loca on: 5660 Old Shell Rd. and cheese s x for $10.00. Limit 1 per Phone: 251-380-1500 visit. Discount: 10% off dine-in food Monday- Thursday. Buffalo Wild Wings Loca on: 6341 Airport Blvd Moe’s Southwest Grill Phone: 251-378-5955 Loca on: 390A Schillenger Rd. S Discount: 10% off food purchase with Phone: 251-633-0303 valid student ID. (May exclude already Discount: 10% discount for all discounted items) students. Firehouse Subs Loca on: 3694 Airport Blvd AND 6808 Airport Blvd AND 5300 Hallsmill Rd (Tillman’s Corner) Discount: Free chips and drink with any sub purchase OR $2.00 off any combo. Must show student ID.

Pickelfish Loca on: 5951 Old Shell Rd. Phone: 251-344-9899 Discount: 10% oﬀ to all USA students

Alabama Family Dental Loca on: 5414 Old Shell Rd. Phone: 251-345-1000 Discount: We are oﬀering a FREE exam and x-ray as well as $50.00 oﬀ whitening or any treatment. Student must provide valid student ID to receive discount or free exam & x-ray.

Other

Tropical Smoothie Café Loca on: 9 Du Rhu Dr. AND 570 Schillinger Rd. Hardee’s Phone: 251-378-5648 Loca on: 5701 Old Shell Rd. Discount: 10% off purchase with Discount:10% off cket AND buy any student ID. thickburger and get a small fry and drink free! Must show student ID Waffle house before ordering. Loca on: 5610 Old Shell Rd Discount:10% off with valid ID. Hungry Howies Pizza and Subs Loca on: 5611 Old Shell Rd. Zorba the Greek Phone: 251-345- 3333 Loca on: 1222 Hillcrest Rd. Suite D Discount: Buy a large specialty pizza Phone: 251-633-2202 at regular price and receive a large Discount: $5.00 Gyros (lamb and 1-topping pizza for FREE. Not valid beef) or Chicken Gyros any me with with any other discounts. student ID.

Bruno’s Loca on: 306 S. University Blvd Phone: 251-342-4258 Discount: 5% discount on Mondays to students with a valid student ID. Six Flags Over Georgia h ps://shopsixflags.accesso.com/ clients/sixflags/aﬃliate/index. php?m=12571 E-mail scs@usouthal.edu for username and password to site.

Bebo’s Express Car Wash Loca on: 3250 Airport Blvd. Phone: 251-476-9876 Discount: 50% off on the Whole 9 Yards Exterior car wash AND $5.00 off any oil change. MUST SEE CASHIER INSIDE. Trax Tires Loca on: 5909 Old Shell Rd. Phone: 251-344-6100 Discount: 5% off res and 10% off service. Not valid with any other coupons or specials.

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

FALL FAIR

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CAREER SERVICES s WWW SOUTHALABAMA EDU CAREERSERVICES

Opinion

Be credible, write incredibly

By KELLY FICARELLI kficarelli@gmail.com

Most people don’t realize the importance of an error-free document. I have received church bulletins, mail advertisements and school newsletters riddled with mistakes and typos to the point that it makes me cringe. No matter how significant or urgent a message may be, when the text is full of errors, the meaning is discredited and so is the sender. Whether you’re writing a term paper, a cover letter for your resume or simply emailing your employer or one of your professors, you want to make sure you’re using correct spelling, grammar and punctuation. As a matter of fact, many professors have certain

standards you must follow when emailing them. Some professors consider it disrespectful for students to send emails in all lowercase letters or with no punctuation. When emailing your professors, be sure to identify your class and the reason for your email in the subject line. Address your professor respectfully at the beginning of the letter, identify yourself and state the reason for the correspondence. Usually, keeping a letter brief is best because your instructors are extremely busy. Give them your contact information and notify them of any attachments in the body of the text. Conclude with a courteous regard and your full name at the end of the email. Sending accurate emails to your professors is a sign of respect. Trust me, they do recognize and acknowledge students who send scrupulous copy or those who send careless reports. No one is perfect. We all make mistakes, editors includ-

ed. But we should make a genuine effort to proofread our letters before we send them out, if they are of any importance, and especially if the recipient of our message is important to us. I implore you, read your documents twice or have a friend or colleague read over and proofread them for you. Accuracy means a lot and can determine the way a person thinks of you.

By STARR JAMES

scj1221@jagmail.southalabama.edu

The Edge apartments on Old Shell Road are said to be the “newest in student housing,” with fully-furnished apartments equipped with hardwood floors and “state of the art appliances.” The complex was scheduled to open for the fall semester. The Edge apartments has had Mobile residents and USA students buzzing with excitement for the long-anticipated move-in date until recently, when news began to spread. Between Aug. 2 and Aug. 13, the elation for me as a future resident turned into one disappointment after the other. As if the parking situation and the move-in date being pushed back for half the residents weren’t enough bad news, on Aug. 13, the remainder of the

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

Do it yourself, don’t become a victim

By LYDIA CHRISTIAN quietartsytype@gmail.com

RYAN KELLER | GRAPHIC DESIGNER

All that glitters is not gold residents began to receive phone calls informing them that they wouldn’t be able to move in the following day and that they would be placed in a hotel along with the first wave of residents who received the same news the week before. Despite the current challenges brought on by The Edge, property managers have been trying to accommodate people in the best way they can. They aren’t the ones to blame. I believe their employers are. So let’s recap these events. First, parking has been reduced due to a company official who can’t figure out that, if you want to have enough parking for everyone, then you might want to get a total count of beds in each unit. Second, a week before the move-in date, students are told that the apartments won’t be ready until “hopefully” September and that they will be housed in a nearby hotel. Third, exactly one day before the move-in date, the other residents are told the same thing. One day before? Surely someone knew long before the 13th that the complex would not be ready! What about the students who are moving here from

KELLY FICARELLI, OPINION EDITOR kficarelli@gmail.com

out of town? Classes begin on Aug. 19, and they will be forced to cram all their belongings into a hotel room for who knows how long. It takes a knowledgeable contractor, an architect and an insightful team of subcontractors to build an entire complex, but because of what has happened, it doesn’t appear that The Edge had any of those. It seems as if a random person with little to no sense of how planning ahead and making blueprints work decided that they wanted to build something. The Edge’s Facebook page has been flooded with well-deserved negative remarks of concerned parents and future residents. Some students are diligently attempting to already sublease their apartments before even staying there. Some families are furious and have decided to take legal action against the company. Can we expect the same amount of disorganization and inconvenience throughout the remainder of the year? As the old English phrase says, “Only time will tell.”

As a serial killer, I have a lot of experience knowing exactly who would make a perfect victim. But even if I weren’t, it doesn’t exactly take a genius––which I also happen to be. In fact, you should know from watching zombie flicks that the first one to go is always the one who isn’t paying attention. If you want to be the next victim of any manner of heinous crimes, text while you’re walking instead of noticing who’s around you on campus. If being robbed at gunpoint outside of your dorm sounds like it might be your thing, I’m here to assure you that it does happen during broad daylight. All you need to do is focus on rearranging the contents of your backpack or counting your Walking Dead pencils instead of noticing me behind you in the Life Sciences basement.

In case you’re more of the adventuresome type, and being typical prey doesn’t appeal to you, then you could always trust that ‘nice person’ you just met. You know, the one who just happened to be in the cafeteria the last six times you were there. As a thrill seeker, be sure to leave your beverage unattended when you hang out at one of the local ‘juke joints’ on Old Shell. To protect yourself against predators (not the alien kind), just make small changes. You don’t even have to stop being lazy. Just do simple things like locking your doors as soon as you’re inside the dorm or car, or waiting to call your BFF about that hottie you just saw in the Humanities building. Maybe even walk on the wild side by securing your purse with both hands or your wallet in your front pocket. Life is a fun ride, but it tends to be even better with the least amount of damage possible incurred along the way. Only you can take care of you, and you owe it to yourself to be responsible. Trust that weird feeling in your stomach before it’s too late. If you focus on becoming aware of your surroundings, then you might have enough time to get away when we meet in the empty Visual Arts hallways.

LYDIA CHRISTIAN | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013

Tear out and take with you!

VOL. 53, NO. 4 / AUG. 19, 2013