Aug 21, 2017

anguard V If it matters to you, it matters to us.

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA

THE

MONDAY AUG 21, 2017 VOL 1718 ISS 3

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USA’s parking has been updated USA changed parking policy and added more spaces.

“Constellations” debut at Laidlaw The romantic comedy has elements of science fiction and tragedy.

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Women’s volleyball season starts soon The SBC predicted the women’s volleyball team to finish second this season.

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Semmes statue still stands By shannon lundgren | editor-in-chief

David Toifel, former USA SGA president, showed up to defend the Semmes statue from “Anonymous.” Photo

by Shannon Lundgren

When hacktivist group “Anonymous” threatened to tear down Mobile’s statue of Admiral Raphael Semmes, former USA SGA President David Toifel came to its defense.

“Anonymous” announced their plans to tear down several Confederate statues across the country, including the statue of Admiral Semmes on Aug. 18 at 6 p.m. EST as part of what they called a Day of Denouncement.

However, no one showed up to tear the statue down, much to Toifel’s relief.

“It’s an answer to my prayers,” said Toifel. “I’ve been praying all day it wouldn’t happen. I had to come down here just to be witness and at least put my physical presence between anyone who would try to harm it.”

Toifel served as USA SGA president from 1969-1970 and studied history and political science at USA. Continued on page 6

USA’s response to Charlottesville

By Marissa mason | managing editor

Stewart Memorial Christian Methodist Episcopal Church held a prayer vigil for the victims of the Charlottesville protests. Photo by Briana Cunningham

A “Unite the Right” rally turned violent when protesters clashed with counter-protesters on Saturday, Aug. 12, a.m. The day before, marchers carried torches around the University of Virginia chanting slogans such as “White Lives Matter” and “Blood and Soil.”

The slogan “White Lives Matter” is in direct opposition to “Black Lives Matter,” which fights against systemic racism towards African-Americans.

“Blood and Soil” is the translation of

the German philosophy “Blut und Boden,” which was used during the Nazi Regime.

The “Unite the Right” protesters gathered again on Saturday and were met by counter-protesters.

By 11:28 a.m., a local state of emergency was declared by Charlottesville, Virginia and the county of Albemarle.

At around 1:42 p.m., James Fields Jr. drove a speeding car into the counter protesters, killing 32-year-old Heather Heyer and injuring at least 19 Continued on page 5

Anthony Thompson is a candidate for mayor of Mobile. Photo by Muqit Asif Khan

Meet Mayoral Candidate Anthony Thompson By shannon lundgren | editor-in-chief

When citizens of Mobile vote for mayor on Tuesday, one of the candidates they can vote for is Anthony Thompson. Thompson sat down with The Vanguard to discuss his campaign platform.

A licensed practicing nurse, Thompson said he initially ran for mayor to alleviate Mobile’s HIV problem. However, he said that as he talked to potential voters, he changed his campaign platform to address the issues that are important to them; crime and unemployment.

He also seeks to increase governmental transparency and accountability. Girl meets boy; meets Continued on page 6

NEWS

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Vanguard

USA Crime Report

THE

University of South Alabama Alpha Hall South Room 336, Mobile, Ala., 36688 Tel: 460-6898 I Fax: 414-8293 Advertising: (678) 644-7838 thevanguardeditor@gmail.com STAFF Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Opinion Editor Web Editor Copy Editors

Shannon Lundgren Marissa Mason Rachel Goodman Krisha Amin Amber-Lynn Boothe Richard Narramore Reporters Ryann Guy Hannah Blackburn Tricia West Photographers Briana Cunningham Shelby Guidry Muqit Asif Khan

Advertising Advertising Manager Tiyana King Advertising Rep Preston Smith Graphic Designer Jennette Bago

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Advising Heather Leigh Stanley James Aucoin Accounting Kathy Brannan

Distribution Distribution Cory Judkins Cameron Hall

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: 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, JagMail 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. 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. Freelance writers and photographers will receive payment upon successful publication.

To request additional issues at a stand near you, email: vanguarddistribution@gmail.com

251-460-6312 08-03-2017 Probation Violation Cleverdon Pkwy @ Old Shell Rd A vehicle stop was made and during process on identifying occupants, white female was determined to have an active Probation Violation warrant issued by Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office. Warrant was verified, with nationwide extradition, and female was arrested.

08-03-2017 Bench Warrant Marx Library Between the listed times and dates a female was arrested for warrants out of Mobile County Sheriff’s Office.

08-07-2017 Theft of Property Fourth Degree, $499 or less The Grove - Bldg # 15 Unknown females removed listed property from the victim’s room without his consent. The value of article(s) taken valued $100.00 in value.

08-14-2017 Criminal Mischief First Degree (Greater than $2,500) Football Storage House Unknown person(s) having no right to damage victim’s property did damage the victims property by splattering blue paint on the victim’s white 2005 Chevrolet Silverado pickup. Paint splatter was on driver’s side hood, front fender, driver’s front door and window and on driver’s side of truck body all the way to the rear bumper area and on both driver’s side tires.

Estimated cost of repairs and repaint is approx. $4000.00 and window, driver’s side 08-15-2017 Possession of alcohol by individuals under 21 Kappa Sigma Fraternity Several students under the age of 21 found to be in possession of alcohol.

08/16/2017 Theft of Property Fourth Degree, $499 or less No location given Between the listed dates and times a fraternity house had its yard signs and sheet signs stolen or destroyed from around campus.

08/17/2017 Theft of Property First Degree (Greater than $2,500) Football Field House A vehicle was stolen out of the Football Complex gravel parking lot and ran out of gas in Hillsdale near the corner of Lovett Rd. and Prospect Dr.

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NEWS

3

Week of Welcome: Convocation

By Tricia West | Reporter

Over 1,200 incoming freshman assembled in The University of South Alabama’s Mitchell Center to celebrate convocation on Aug. 15. USA’s website describes the annual convocation as “a special event for new students and staff.”

The annual convocation traditionally consists of a greeting from USA’s president, a speech given by one of USA’s students and ending words from a member of alumni, according to the Week of Welcome page on USA’s website.

Jaguar Athletics hosted a few pre-convocation activities, such as seeing which side of the room could shout “GO, JAGS!” the loudest and also hosted a trivia competition for prizes. Later, the students recited the Jaguar fight song, an age-old tradition students participate in every year.

Other pre-convocation events included the class of 2021’s group photo. At 9:45 a.m. in the Mitchell Center, students lined up for the photo dressed in all red, white and blue attire. The University posted the picture over social media later that day.

SGA President Carl Thomas Jr. spoke at the event in full Jaguar spirit attire, in an attempt to inspire and encourage the new freshman class.

“It was really cool how he was dressed just like the rest of the students and sat with them [in school colors].” stated Josie Jones, one of USA’s many new freshmen. “ You couldn’t even tell it was him

until he left the crowd and pointed himself out,” After Thomas’ speech, a studentpresented slideshow advised freshman to “remember to make memories and try to find yourself throughout your college experience.”

After convocation, students ate lunch at the north and south sides of the Mitchell Center Concourse and visited their academic college for Dessert with the Deans. Students had the opportunity to ask the deans one-on-one questions about their respective colleges and the university as a whole.

Convocation is just one of South’s many “Week of Welcome” events which are offered free of charge to current students and spans 15 days.

It began with Move-in Day and will end with the “South Success Summit: Determine Your Direction” event on Saturday, Aug. 26. The summit offers free food and games for students while they learn skills that could aid them in achieving a successful academic school year.

Other remaining Week of Welcome events include the Consent Carnival, Jaguar Productions Bingo for Books, Career Services Job Fair, Get on Board Day, and Jaguar Production’s Block Party.

To find upcoming Week of Welcome events with times and locations, visit the USA website and click the “Week of Welcome...

And Beyond” tab. Most events are free of charge for USA students and many offer free food and hours of entertainment.

Students participate in many activities and recive many free goodies during the Week of Welcome. Photo by Briana Cunningham

University of South Alabama President Tony Waldrop runs alongside USA mascot South Paw at the Week of Welcome’s freshman convocation. Photo by Briana Cunningham

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Parking changes impact all students

Recent changes to parking can be seen on the map above. Photo courtesy of USA Marketing and Communications By tricia west | Reporter

Parking Services announced the addition of over 250 new gravel parking spots located on Health Services Drive in North Zone parking and several new regulations to go with them in an email on Aug. 15.

Only commuter students with a valid parking permit can park in the new gravel parking lot. As the email stated, following the completion of the new lot, students with East Zone parking permits are no longer allowed to park in North Zone parking, but instead must park in their respective zones or the new gravel lot.

According to Parking Services, after 3:45 p.m. daily, residential and commuter students alike can park anywhere on campus except the following restricted areas: loading/ unloading zones,visitor parking areas and blue staff parking spaces in the residential zone. These spaces are now monitored 24/7 by campus police,

ready to write students parking tickets whenever applicable.

Students are advised to remain respectful toward the University of South Alabama Police Department despite any frustrations they may have with fines.

“If you have an issue, just make sure to be kind and respectful to those who can help. Understand Parking Services and USAPD are here to keep you safe. Being respectful goes a long way. Parking on campus is a privilege, so don’t take it lightly,” said SGA Chief Justice Taylor Davis.

USA’s parking services web page states that visitor parking spots are reserved for official USA guests only, and those individuals must have a valid permit to utilize them. This also includes students looking to tour campus for upcoming semesters.

“All parking spots in Meisler Hall have been converted to TOUR VISITOR ONLY spots due to an increased demand for campus visits,”

stated the email.

Students are no longer allowed to park in this lot until after the cut-off time from Monday through Friday.

Additionally, 30-minute spaces are no longer offered to students wishing to visit Meisler Hall or the bookstore.

Some students have noticed improvements already with USA’s parking, despite it being so early in the semester.

“I like the changes so far, parking today wasn’t nearly as bad as last year.” said sophmore Nicole Duke.

Others had subtle discomfort with the parking even still, “[Finding a parking spot] today wasn’t terrible, but the zones you have to choose from still suck pretty bad. I have two classes back-to-back and because of zone choice it’s a long walk both ways because the classes are on opposite sides of campus,” said Mike Saucier, another USA student.

Over the summer, USA changed the parking spots north of the chemistry

building and Marx Library from straight to angular spaces so students wouldn’t have to back out into lanes of traffic to leave the lot, according to Director of Communications Bob Lowry.

If you catch yourself accidently breaking any of these new traffic regulations, keep in mind that after Sept. 6, students with a parking ticket balance of over $100 will have holds placed on their accounts. To register for spring semester, students will need a ticket balance below that amount.

On USA’s website students can find information on Parking Ticket Forgiveness Day, a SGA organized event where students can bring in donations for a charitable cause and have one parking ticket written off of their total due amount.

To read more about parking regulations or to get a complete map of parking zones visit www.southalabama.edu/departments/ parkingservices.

NEWS

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Charlottesville response, continued Continued from page 1

others.

“If you’re not outraged you’re not paying attention,” Heyer said in a final Facebook post.

Following the incidents, President Trump received heavy criticism for his now infamous comment, “We condemn, in the strongest possible terms, this egregious display of hatred, bigotry and violence on many sides.”

The president received many complaints from the left and right alike for his lack of conviction.

“Mr. President - we must call evil by its name. These were white supremacists and this was domestic terrorism,” Sen. Cory Gardner (R) wrote on Twitter.

On Monday, Aug. 14, Trump released a new statement: “Racism is evil, and those who cause violence in its name are criminals and thugs, including the KKK, neo-Nazis, white supremacists and other hate groups.”

People spoke up in support of the condemnation, many sharing their voice on Twitter.

“Very important for the nation

to hear @potus describe events in #Charlottesville for what they are, a terror attack by #whitesupremacists,” Florida Senator Marco Rubio (R) tweeted.

The next day, Trump again stated, “I think there is blame on both sides.

You had a group on one side that was bad. You had a group on the other side that was also very violent.”

In response the events in Charlottesville, University of South Alabama College Republicans released a statement: “The University of South Alabama College Republicans are deeply disturbed by the abhorrent actions of white supremacists in Charlottesville, Virginia,” President of USA College Republicans Zach Weidlich wrote.

“These evil acts, motivated by racist ideology, burden us greatly.

“We strongly condemn any type of racial supremacy, white nationalism, or any type of terrorism. These attitudes and actions are disgusting, and they are not welcome in the Republican Party. We extend our sincerest condolences to all those affected by injury and loss of life, and

we pray for quick and total healing for everyone injured in these attacks.

“Additionally, we echo President Trump’s statement that these acts of hate have no place in America. The President was correct when he said, ‘Racism is evil…And those who cause violence in its name are criminals and thugs, including the K.K.K., neo-Nazis, white supremacists and other hate groups that are repugnant to everything we hold dear as Americans.’”

USA President Tony Waldrop also released a statement and emailed all students in regards to Charlottesville.

“The tragic and deplorable events in Charlottesville, Virginia, should serve as a reminder that we, as a university community, a nation and a world, must dedicate ourselves to peacefully and constructively discussing and addressing the issues and challenges of our times in a manner that is respectful of all individuals,” Waldrop wrote. “We all must be clear that there is no place in this dialogue, or in any of our interactions, for intolerance or violence. Our University of South

Alabama core values include diversity, inclusion, cultural awareness and mutual respect. I encourage our faculty, staff and students to embrace and live these values and to continue fostering a climate of care, concern and civility among all groups and individuals.”

The Vanguard offers its condolences to all that were harmed during the protests at Charlottesville and will continue to monitor this and similar situations.

The Vanguard joins Stewart Memorial CME Church in offering their condolences. Photo by Briana Cunningham.

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Thompson, Continued Semmes, Continued Continued from page 1

He worked as a teacher for 30 years and helped restore the statue almost 20 years ago.

“This is something that is deeply special to me,” said Toifel. “I actually participated in the fund to raise artifacts from the CSS Alabama. I’ve been to France and seen where the crew of the [CSS] Alabama is buried.

I worked on it for 20 years of my life and I really wouldn’t let anyone tear it down without some type of resistance.”

When asked how much resistance he was prepared to offer, Toifel did not seem prepared to offer violent

resistance.

“I’m an old man. I’m 70,” he said. “I hope it doesn’t get physical.”

Toifel expressed hope that the city of Mobile could work together to resolve any problems it might have.

“Mobile is probably the best of all southern cities, and I’ve been to a lot of them,” said Toifel. “I think that if we work together, we can overcome any problem we have. Violence is not the answer. It is not the answer.”

Admiral Semmes statue still remains over the Bankhead Tunnel.

“Anonymous” was not available for comment at the time of publication.

Anthony Thompson is a proponent of increased governmental transparency and accountability. Photo by Muqit Asif Khan

Continued from page 1

Thompson discussed several reforms to the public safety offices, including depoliticizing the offices of police and fire chief, implementing a home loan forgiveness program for public safety officers and supports a civilian oversight council to increase police accountability.

First among the changes Thompson proposed is depoliticizing the offices of police and fire chief. Thompson explained that the offices of police and fire chief are political appointments.

“If you’ve been in that job for 20 or 30 years, that should not change based on the whim of a politician,” Thompson said.

He also said he wants to implement a home loan forgiveness program for public safety officers, such as police and firemen to encourage public safety officers to live in the city of Mobile.

Thompson said this would serve as an artificial pay increase for public safety officers as well as a crime deterrent.

Thompson also supports a civilian oversight council to increase police accountability.

“According to statistics, we are at an all-time low,” Thompson said about crime. “However, I have reason to believe these numbers are artificially low… I don’t fault the police department for this. It is the result of the mayor’s office putting pressure on

the Chief of Police to reduce crime.”

Thompson’s interest in crime prevention doesn’t stop stop with the police, he also wants to bolster Mobile’s social services for people who have been released from jail. He hopes this will decrease the likelihood of someone going back to jail and give them the opportunity to reintegrate to society.

Another large part of Thompson’s platform includes increased governmental transparency and accountability.

“Elected officials need to be held accountable and they cannot be held accountable if you don’t know what they are doing,” said Thompson.

To promote governmental accountability and transparency, Thompson proposed a town hall meeting in all seven districts every three to four months. He said he would require officials in charge of each district to attend each town hall meeting or watch a video of each town hall meeting and take handwritten notes.

Thompson said the purpose of this was to “…be up front with the citizens and let them know if we can do anything to address it [their issues], what are we doing to address it. That way, they can hold us accountable.”

To find more information on how you can vote in Tuesday’s mayoral election, visit http://www.cityofmobile. org/election/.

“Anonymous” did not suceed in their stated aim of tearing the Admiral Semmes statue down. Photo by Shannon Lundgren

LIFE

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“Constellations” debuts at USA

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Girl meets boy; they meet at a barbecue, fall in love, get married and live happily ever after; end of story.

Wrong.

The Broadway renowned play “Constellations” made its debut this past weekend at Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, and it was the complete antithesis of this stereotypical “girl next door” story.

The unorthodox romantic-comedy with a side of tragedy and sci-fi was a reconstruction of the audience’s consciousness right on stage. For example, have you ever driven home pondering, re-evaluating and reconstructing multiple scenarios of how a situation would have played out if you had done something differently?

The two-person show follows the romantic life of Roland, portrayed

by USA Professor Paul Hurley, and Marianne, portrayed by Midwestern State Professor, Christie Maturo.

Roland is a beekeeper. Marianne is a physicist. From the onset of the first barbeque scene, their relationship is shrouded with challenges that are inevitable, such as subtle insecurities and casual fibbing. All the while, Roland and Marianne figure out their relationship again, again and again in a celestial setting.

Roland and Marianne have a very unique, nostalgic and comforting approach to humor by finding silver linings within a really complex subject matter.

“The awkward humor and uncomfortable meet-up situations are aspects that almost anyone in college can recognize and identify with,”

Christian Manganti, USA sophomore, said.

“Constellations” insists that there is no such thing as a syllabus in a relationship. Your greatest “tests” are defined in moments that you cannot study for. Each encounter with a significant other is a multiple choice quiz with A. Do I tell her I am in a relationship with someone else; B. Do I tell her I have a child; C. We are both single.

“You start to think about how certain situations work out in your life,” Manganti said.

For the entirety of the play, you are thinking in this formula.

“From the first minute onwards, my mind got thrown into varying states of confusion, emotional turmoil, and genuine introspection,” Manganti said.

Yet, the common theme within all of these states of mind is simple; every little moment can alter the course of any relationship: tone of voice, Roland’s side glance, the number of steps Marianne takes to her left.

The juxtaposition of the simplistic backdrop with the intricate “molecular structure” of the characters in each of the scenarios enhanced the overall storytelling quality of the play.

“Constellations” is a reminder that the universe has a course of action and reaction for every single option possible. There is a fine line between scientific reality and our very own perceptions of a situation. The play insinuates that it isn’t impossible to live on this fine line.

The magnetically captivating play “Constellations” heads to Midwestern State this weekend.

PAN.

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SPORTS

8

South Alabama starts ‘Clear Bag Policy’

By Hannah Blackburn | Reporter

USA athletics issued a new policy requiring all bags entering LaddPeebles stadium to be clear this football season.

“We’ve looked at what other Sun Belt football teams are doing, as well as SEC schools and the NFL and this seems that this is where everybody is going,” said assistant athletic director Greg Keel, “This will help improve the safety and efficiency of fans”.

If a fan wishes to bring items into the stadium, they must be in either a gallon-sized clear freezer or Ziploc sandwich bag, or in a clear USA tote with the Jaguar logo embellished on it. Clutch handbags are permitted, but may be no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches. All Jaguar athletic fund donors and season ticket holders will receive a free clear tote bag along with their purchase. Students who bought parking passes will also receive one free bag; they can also be purchased at the USA bookstore.

Despite the limitations on the types of bags, this is not meant to be seen as a limitation as to what kinds of items can be brought into the stadium.

Game-goers can still bring the items they have brought previously, however now it must carried along in a designated clear bag.

Bags that will not be permitted

include: clear backpacks, mesh tote bags, plastic bags with printed patterns on them, diaper bags, fanny packs, binocular cases and oversized tote bags. There will not be restrictions on bags used for medical purposes. There will be a test-run on Sept. 8 when the Jags play their home opener against Oklahoma State University.

“We’re going to have a sort of ‘softopening’ in which we aren’t going to turn away those who don’t have a bag,” says Keel, “we’re going to hand them a bag and tell them that these must be used for the rest of the games, we want to start enforcing this policy as soon as possible.”

As of right now, this policy will only be used for football games.

“Knowing that football games are our most attended contest, this year it will only be for football,” Keel noted.

The athletic department has yet to decide if this will fall onto other sporting events, but Keel says they aren’t going to rule out that possibility yet. Another important policy that the athletic department wants fans to be aware of is that there will be no outside beverages allowed. All drinks must be purchased at the event. The athletic department will have signs posted around campus reminding everyone of the new policy and more information can be found online at Jaguarathleticfund.com/clearbag.

This season, be sure to bring your items in an approved clear plastic bag. Photo by Muqit Asif Khan

SPORTS

9

USA Volleyball starts new season by ryann guy | Reporter

The South Alabama volleyball team dives into a new season with a tournament Aug. 24 in Houston, Texas. As a veteran team, there are 12 letterwinners returning to the Jaguar Gym this year and four freshman who will add to the squad.

Every year, The Sun Belt Conference East Division head coaches chooses prospective rankings of all the teams and this year, South was selected to finish this season second in the league.

“The first weekend is a perfect weekend to get us started to give us a feel for different styles of teams,” head coach Amy Hendrichovsky said about their first matchup of the season against Texas Southern University.

The Jags will face Texas Southern University, Houston Baptist University and Texas Tech University during their first tournament.

Freshman Meaghan Jones is looking forward to the upcoming tournament in Texas, her native state.

“I am super excited . . . I hope to get on the court and make a difference,” she said about not only proving herself on the court, but impressing her family as well. Jones said every one of her family members will be there to support the Jaguars.

Sophomore setter and defensive specialist Ashlyn Roberts believes her ability to make changes quickly is part of how she utilizes her skills during games. She explains how both teams strategize against what they believe to

be the other team’s weaknesses. Being able to adjust to different situations gives Roberts the upper hand against her opponent.

“I am pretty consistent with my middles and my right,” she said about her technique. “I’m working on my left side with my angles and the velocity of my wrist.”

Last season, the team finished second in the conference with an overall 16-14 record and went 7-9 in conference play. The team struggled on the road with three wins and nine losses, but dominated at home with eight wins and three losses.

“Our goals for this program has been to win a conference championship that we have been working to get there over the last few years,” Hendrichovsky said.

With Coastal Carolina as the defending champion, the Chanticleers are a team to watch. Hendrichovsky noted that Arkansas State has been another tough competitor from the west for USA in the past. This year, USA will have a home court advantage against both teams.

One thing Hendrichovsky said she would like to see the team do this year is, “build momentum from start to finish, but finish stronger than how we started.”

The athletes have one more week of training and practices before traveling to their first matchup of the season. To hear more about upcoming volleyball games, check back with www. usajaguars.com.

Redshirt senior Symone Stephenson returns to the team this season. Photo by Shelby Guidry

The athletes have one more week of training and practices before attending their first match. Photo by Shelby Guidry

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OPINION

BMD student wants to be a star

Laidlaw Theatre puts on several productions a year.

Photo by Briana Cunningham By: rachel goodman | opinion editor

Dear Debbie: I am going to be a sophomore next year at South. I’m a Biomedical Sciences major, but only because my parents pushed me to be.

My grades are fine, but I hate the course material. I have always wanted to become an actress. I really want to move somewhere, like New York or Los Angeles, where I will have more opportunities to pursue my dream of acting.

I know if I do this without finishing school my parents will cut me off. I feel like I will go crazy if I have to spend the next 7 years studying to be a doctor. I am 19 now so I feel like I should be able to follow my dreams regardless of my parents approval. What should I do?

- BMD Dreamer BMD Dreamer: I think that when it comes to the arts, people greatly over-emphasize location. People often think that it is not possible to pursue their creative interests unless they live in a certain place.

Cities like New York and Los Angeles are typically romanticized as these perfect cities where dreams come true in a flash and poor waitresses become A-list celebrities. In reality,

these cities are crawling with want-tobe actresses and actors who would do just about anything for a part in a PSA commercial.

This high volume of people who share your same career goals makes it very difficult to stand out. Only the most skilled actors and actresses are able to get roles; and often it just comes down to who you know.

Someone with a lot of established connections is much more likely to get an acting job than a 19-year-old from Alabama who does not know a single soul.

These cities are also incredibly expensive. If you up and move to LA or New York without any means of making steady money, your funds will quickly be drained.

If acting is truly something that you are passionate about, you need to cultivate your talents before you run off to LA with no training or plan.

Staying in Mobile to finish college does not mean that you can’t still follow your dreams.

USA has a wonderful theatre program where you can have the opportunity to act in live productions.

Many students and Mobile residents enjoy the programs put on in the Laidlaw Performing Arts center.

By taking theatre classes and participating in these productions you will not only increase your talent, but give yourself a chance to see if acting is truly what you want to do with your life.

Being an actress takes hard work and it typically does not pay well.

This is probably why your parents are hesitant to let you follow this particular dream.

It is easy to be swept away in the idea of being a famous actress and mistake it for an actual passion for the craft.

You should speak with your parents about your concerns and life goals. If you don’t want to be a doctor, they can not force you to be. Though if they are helping you pay for school, you do owe them the respect of involving them in these types of decisions.

Do your best to see this from their perspective and understand that they only want what is best for you. If you bring up the possibility of taking theatre classes they will most likely react more warmly to this than the idea of you leaving for LA or New York.

19 Reasons to get involved By: rachel goodman | opinion editor

1. You get out of college what you put in; if you don’t participate in anything you won’t get the most out of your college experience.

2. The more involved you are the more friends you make.

3. Being involved will look good on a resume for a future employer/ graduate school.

4. If you join a club run by a professor you will be able to get to know them better; thus gaining a source for a possible letter of recommendation.

5. By joining a club that pertains to your major, you gain the opportunity to get advice from older students studying the same things as you.

6. Joining a club and sticking to its obligations will help you develop responsibility and learn how to manage your time.

7. Many major-related clubs will have guest speakers from the field you are interested in; this is not only a good opportunity for networking, but a way for you to get advice from people who have become successful doing what you want to do.

8. Having a leadership role in an organization will help develop your leadership skills and give you practice communicating with your peers in a professional way.

9. Normally, most clubs have a required GPA you must maintain.

Having to maintain this GPA will help motivate you to stay on top of your studies.

10. Normally, clubs will provide

some opportunity for you to be involved with community service; community service hours look great on a resume.

11. By being involved you will help cultivate the community participation at USA. 12. Schools that have higher student participation are more fun for students to attend.

13. Often, students who are more involved do better in their classes; being involved teaches you to budget time and follow through with deadlines.

14. By joining a club or organization you will be exposed to people who are different than you and see the world in a different light; this will help you broaden your own horizons.

15. Joining a club also gives you a chance to give back to USA; by being involved on campus you help contribute to the culture of USA. 16. Being a member of something bigger than you can help to develop your own selfconfidence.

17. You can gain support system when you join a club or organization; your membership will connect you to these other people and give you the opportunity to be there for each other.

18. Going to your club meetings/class obligations can serve as an escape from the stress of classes and homework; it gives you something else to focus on.

19. Involvement can also increase your likelihood of receiving certain departmental scholarships; it just looks good!

Student organizations are looking for new members. Photo by Shelby Guidry

DISTRACTIONS

Eclipse Trivia • • • • • •

What Major League Baseball team won a world series on the night of a total lunar eclipse?

By 2017 what small U.S. city will have been in the path of three total solar eclipses in less than 100 years?

Who was the first person to observe a total solar eclipse from the air?

During a solar eclipse, in what direction does the Moon’s shadow move across the Earth?

What is the original meaning of the word “eclipse”?

Could Stonehenge in England have been used to predict eclipses?

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