Feb 10, 2014

VANGUARD THE

VOL. 54, NO. 5

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

FEB. 10, 2014

USA has its next president

INSIDE

► Campus: Women of Excellence gather, celebrate Black History Month.

See Campus, page 4

STEPHANIE FEATHER | MANAGING EDITOR

► JagLife: IMC presents Will Johnson live.

See JagLife. page 8

Dr.Tony Waldrop, with his wife Dr. Julee Waldrop, accepts the presidency position at the board of trustees meeting Feb. 6.

By STEPHANIE FEATHER sf1101@jagmail.southalabama.edu

D

► Sports: Softball starts season undefeated in Mardi Gras Invitational.

See Sports, page 12

► Sports: South Alabama Rugby friendly season gearing up.

See Sports, page 12

r. Tony Waldrop has accepted the offer from the board of trustees to become the University of South Alabama’s third president in history.

The board met Thursday, Feb. 6 in the boardroom of South’s Whiddon Administration Building to discuss the finalist. They took into consideration the surveys collected from the community following the public forum held Jan. 31.

Walking into the boardroom, it was evident a decision was going to be made. Many news sources from around Mobile, Ala. were present to capture the historic event. The board voted and made a unanimous decision to offer the presidential position to Waldrop.

Waldrop and his wife, Julee, were welcomed into the crowded boardroom after the vote with rounds of applause. Dr. Steve Furr, chairman of the board, formally offered Waldrop the job. Waldrop accepted the offer to become South Alabama’s third

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president in history. “Together we can make this an even better university,” Waldrop said in his acceptance speech.

Waldrop has been provost and executive vice president at the University of Central Florida since 2010.

Before UCF, Waldrop served as the vice chancellor for research and economic development at the University of North Carolina and vice chancellor for research at the University of Illinois.

Waldrop succeeds the late President Emeritus Gordon Moulton, who retired in July and died Sept. 28 after a long battle with brain cancer. Geri Moulton, Pres. Moulton’s widow, welcomed the Waldrops to the University.

“This is truly a historic day on this campus,” she said. “You chose us and we chose you.”

The members of the board and the presidential search committee took turns welcoming the couple, and thanked everyone who worked so hard throughout the almost yearlong search process.

“We couldn’t be happier with the outcome of the search,” Doug Marshall, president of USA’s Faculty Sen-

Check out our digital edition thevanguardonline.com

Dr. Tony Waldrop makes history by becoming the third University of South Alabama President ate and a member of the search committee, said. He spoke on behalf of the faculty senate and the faculty as a whole, saying that they are all very excited. He also said that the search process was invaluable to prepare the University for the next president.

Riley Davis, Student Government Association president, also welcomed Waldrop to the University. “On behalf of the student body, I’m very excited for Dr. Waldrop,” Davis said. “I think student life is only going to flourish with Dr. Waldrop’s help.” She also thanked the board and administration for giving her “the opportunity of a lifetime” to be a part of the search process.

The board thanked to John W. Smith, who has been the University’s acting president since February 2013.

They thanked Smith and his wife, Jean, for all they did for the University.

Smith became emotional when he spoke about his experience. “It has truly been an honor,” he said. “What makes the University of South Alabama so special is the people. You will not find a more dedicated, loyal group of individuals. It has been my plea-

sure to work with them in this interim role.” He welcomed the Waldrops, and said he looked forward to working with the new president and said he felt the board “picked the right person at the right time.”

“I don’t know what makes Tony Waldrop run,” Furr said, referring to Waldrop’s history as a world record holder in track and a gold medal recipient in the Pan-American games in 1975. “He used to run for fun, but I know he now runs for a purpose,” Furr continued. “I believe he runs to make a difference, and that’s why he’s coming to this university.”

“It will be a very hard race, but it’s one I welcome very much,” Waldrop said. He also thanked his wife. “She is the rock that makes me successful,” he said, adding that they come as a team.

“We’re just delighted to be here,” Waldrop said. He thanked the board for making him and his wife feel so welcome, and said that he looks forward to working with the leaders of the University as well as the community.

He stressed that it’s not about an individual, but instead it’s about working together as a team.

In this Issue: Sports, Page 9 Opinion, Page 14

JagLife, Page 7

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VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014

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VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014

Weather for Feb. 10 - 17 “University of South Alabama’s Student Voice”

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

Samantha Andrews

Stephanie Feather Meg Lundberg Matthew Strickland

Alyssa Newton Emma Mitchell Matthew Strickland

Distribution Distribution Bobby Faulk Alan Smith

Advertising Advertising Justine Burbank Graphic Designer Ryan Keller Sheldon Hall

Management Advising J. Sellers J. Aucoin Accounting Kathy Brannan

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

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

Or thevanguardeditor@gmail.com Letters and guest columns must be received by 7 p.m. on the Wednesday prior to the Monday publication. Submissions should be typed and must include the writer’s name, year, school and telephone number. All submissions become the property of The Vanguard. The Vanguard reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for length and clarity. Letters will be limited to 300 words. Letters and guest columns are the opinion of the writer. The Staff Editorial represents the consensus opinion of the Editorial Board, 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.

PATRICK BIGBIE | STAFF METEOROLOGIST

Twitter: StormTeam4g9wx Facebook: Facebook.com/StormTeam4Gamma9Wx

USAPD Police Blotter 02/03/2014 23:42 Criminal trespass third degree Delta 3 Individual was arrested for trespassing. Officer confiscated BB gun.

02/02/2014 3:19 Criminal trespass third degree and possession of marijuana second degree The Grove While on patrol, officers came in contact with two non-students trespassing. They were arrested and charged for possession of marijuana. Both individuals were transported to Mobile County Metro Jail.

01/31/2014 14:20 Medical emergency Dining facility Victim slipped while pussing food cart into the walk-in cooler.

01/31/2014 14:15 Theft of property second degree Humanities Several textbooks valuing $475 were stolen from Lab 15 during winter break.

1/30/2014 10:37 One injured Shelby Hall Female slipped on a patch of ice on the sidewalk while walking toward Shelby Hall.

The fall caused injury to her ankle. Mobile Fire and Rescue responded to the scene and transported the injured female to an area hospital.

If you see something, say something!

Call USAPD at 251-460-6312

Killer picks up life sentences

By SAM ANDREWS thevanguardeditor@gmail.com

Q

uinten Orlando Godfrey, 23, has been sentenced to two life terms for the murder of USA student Andrew Saxon, according to a recent AL.com article by Michael Dumas.

According to Dumas’ Jan. 27 account, Saxon was gunned down on Jan. 12, 2012, and about a week later, Godfrey, Christopher Case, 28, and Tevin Wells, 21, were arrested in connection with the crime.

Case and Wells are to appear in court Feb. 20 and are currently free on $100,000 bond.

All three have been accused of breaking into Saxon’s home in the 400 block of N. University Blvd. However, prosecutors claim Godfrey was the one who had a gun and shot Saxon, who was found in his neighbor’s carport with a gunshot wound in his chest.

Assistant District Attorney Keith Blackwood told AL.com that Godfrey could make parole in 15 years during his first life sentence.

If paroled, his second life sentence would begin, giving him another possibility of parole.

Quinten Orlando Godfrey is to carry out two life terms for the murder of USA student Andrew Saxon.

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VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014

Women of Excellence gather, celebrate Black History Month

By MITCHELL KAHALLEY wmk1221@jagmail.southalabama.edu

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new group of South Alabama students was inducted into the Women of Excellence program Wednesday, Feb. 5.

This was one of the first in a long list of events sponsored by the University in honor of Black History Month.

According to Petre Freeman, the coordinator at the Office of Multicultural Affairs and the adviser for Women of Excellence, the organization was created to promote leadership amongst African-American women as well as to promote academics. All the new inductees were required to have at least a 2.8 GPA and 15 credit hours.

The Office of Multicultural Affairs and the African-American Student Association will be hosting various oncampus events throughout February to highlight the diversity of the University as well as to celebrate the accomplishments of African-Americans in the student body. The centerpiece of these events will be a lecture given by Jeramey Anderson. At 21 years old, Anderson is the youngest person ever to be elected to the Mississippi House of Representatives. He will speak on the topic of making history at any age. The lecture will be held Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. in the Laidlaw Performing Arts Center and is sponsored by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.

On Feb. 10, Black History Jeopardy will be held in the USA Library Auditorium. “It was a good turnout last year,” Martha Mayo, the African-American Student Association’s black awareness chair for Black History Month, said.

“It’s fun to come see even if you’re not participating in the game.”

The Mitchell Center will host AASA Night at the Jaguar men’s basketball game against Arkansas State Feb. 13 at 7:05 p.m. The AASA dance team will be performing during halftime.

The “If You Really Knew Me” forum will be held Feb. 18 in the humanities building.

“This is one of my favorite events,”

Mayo said. “The ‘If You Really Knew Me’ forum is a way to express yourself and tell your story. It creates a sense of ‘if you can do it, I can do it’ and a sense of student bonding.”

On Feb. 19, Laidlaw will host the MADDRAMA Performance Troupe out of Jackson, Miss.

“MADDRAMA is a student organization that creates theatrical performances through song and dance to tell a story,” Freeman said. This year’s theme is “There’s A War Going On.” The Mobile Museum of Art will host A Night of African-American Art, sponsored by Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc., on Feb. 20.

Freeman stresses that the Black History Month events are open to all students and encourages all to come out.

Most events are free of charge.

If students want to stay up-to-date with these events and others held throughout the year, they can “like” the USA Office of Multicultural Student Affairs on Facebook and follow them on Twitter @OMSAUSA. All events presented by the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs can also be found on the Jaguar Productions calendar.

If students wish to get involved with AASA, meetings are held every other Tuesday in the humanities building, room 160.

MITCHELL KAHALLEY | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Monday, Feb. 10, 7 p.m.-Black History Jeopardy will be held in the USA Library Auditorium.This event is co-sponsored by the African-American Student Association and the Abeneefoo Kuo Honor Society.

Tuesday, Feb. 11, 6 p.m.-The Black History Scavenger Hunt will be held at the USA Student Center.

The event is co-sponsored by Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. Thursday, Feb. 13, 7 p.m.-AASA Night at the Basketball Game will be held at USA’s Mitchell Center.

Friday, Feb. 14, 5:30-7:30 p.m.- Minority Preview Night will be held at USA’s Mitchell Center on the main floor. This event sponsored by the USA Office of Admissions is for prospective minority students.

Monday, Feb. 17, 7 p.m.-Abeneefoo Kuo Honor Society inductions will be held in the USA Health Sciences Building in the Pat Capps Covey College of Allied Health Professions main auditorium.

Tuesday, Feb. 18, 7 p.m.-The “If You Really Knew Me” forum will be held at the USA Humanities Building, Room 160.

Wednesday, Feb. 19, 7 p.m.-MADDRAMA Performance Troupe will present “There’s a War Going On” in the USA Laidlaw Performing Arts Center.

For more information, visit http://www.maddrama. com/.

Thursday, Feb. 20, 7 p.m.-A Night of African-American Art event will be held at the Mobile Museum of Art. The event is sponsored by Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.

MITCHELL KAHALLEY | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Petre Freeman, coordinator of Office of Multicultural Student Affairs and adviser for Women of Excellence, honors new inductees Feb. 5 in USA’s library.

Black History Month Events

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VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014

Alum explains impact of rising sea level

Dr. John B. Anderson Rice University Professor

By JAVAN ANDERSON

jja1321@jagmail.southalabama.edu

T

he Geology Club has invited Dr. John B. Anderson, a South Alabama alumnus, for a presentation on the sea levels and their direct impact on our area.

Anderson has spent many years studying the Gulf Coast, and he will present his findings Friday, Feb. 14 at 3:30 p.m. in the library audito-

rium. During the presentation, he will explain how sea level rising will impact our area directly.

Anderson is very excited to return to South and deliver this presentation. His affiliation with the University defines a special bond. Laura Rufin, president of the Geology Club, spoke about this connection. “I know that regardless of time or location, when I am in a position to give back to South, I will do so with pride,�

Rufin said. “Dr. Anderson feels the same. He has even offered to cover a significant portion of his travel expenses in order to provide this opportunity.� By inviting Anderson to speak, Rufin hopes, “With his discussion, attendees will realize how fragile our environment is and renew efforts to protect and improve our community.� “The most compelling impact of global warming is accelerated sea-level rise, which has increased sixfold in historical time,� Anderson said. “This increase in sea-level rise is causing widespread acceleration of coastal erosion and wetlands loss.�

As stated on Anderson’s personal page at Rice University, he received his bachelor’s degree from the University of South Alabama, master’s degree from the University of New Mexico and his doctorate from Florida State University. He went on to become an assistant professor at Hope College before finally

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becoming the Maurice Ewing Professor of Oceanography at Rice University in 1975. After his first visit to Antarctica, Anderson continued to research numerous aspects of Antarctic marine geology, participating in 24 scientific expeditions to Antarctica.

Anderson is the author and co-author of 230 peer-reviewed publications, and he has edited five volumes and published two books.

He is the recipient of numerous awards, including the 2007 Shepard Medal of the Society for Sedimentary Research. Some of his research includes work on the evolution of the U.S. Gulf Coast and response of coastal environments to global change, mountain denudation in Patagonia and the Antarctic Peninsula, as well as climate change in the Antarctic Peninsula region.

With a keen interest in the response of coastal systems to global change, Anderson’s presentation topic will be “The Variable of Gulf Coastal Environments to Accelerated Sea-Level Rise and Climate Change: Implications for Future Change.� “Every semester the Geology Club attempts to introduce at least one guest speaker for the department,� Rufin said. “They cover various topics, including advice on job interviewing techniques and resume critiques. The purpose is to help develop individuals on a more professional level.�

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VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014

Bamacovered.org looks for volunteers

By CATHERINE BUTTREY catherinebuttrey@gmail.com

D

an Liss presented BamaCovered.org, a website that provides information on health care options for the people of Alabama, at an informational meeting held Monday, Feb. 2 in the humanities building.

“Alabama needs help and fast,” Liss said. “We aim to contact 100,000 uninsured Alabamians to educate them about their health care options.”

Liss is a Harvard graduate who left his job as an investment banker in London to start the website. This program is the first student-powered movement to spread awareness about the health care options available to the uninformed community.

In the informational meeting, Liss presented the innovative concepts of Bama Covered and the plans the program intends to carry out. According to BamaCovered.org, the health care plan has been widely viewed as unsuccessful overall in our country. “Regardless of your political stance,” Liss said, “health care is about people, not politics.”

According to BamaCovered.org,

the plan is not driven by the Affordable Care Act, but, rather, the efforts to avoid bankruptcy caused by medical expenses and the lack of health care options in our state. This program is not a political movement, but instead, very simply, a plan to help Alabama families through an incredibly intimidating, complex process.

The plan intends to get as many campuses involved as possible in the state of Alabama so that students will be well-equipped to advise Alabamians to make informed health care decisions for themselves and their families. “In 2012, 643,000 Alabamians were without health insurance,” Liss said. “It is our generation’s responsibility to reach as many people as possible. The opportunity is endless.

“From women’s suffrage to civil rights, student volunteers have made a difference in the major movements of our country,” Liss continued. “Students can be effective conduits of information.” Students on our campus are excited to kick start the program at South.

After Liss informed those at the meeting how to sign up for training at BamaCov-

CATHRINE BUTTREY | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Dan Liss, Harvard graduate and Bamacovered.org creator, speaks at USA Feb. 2 ered.org, many seemed enthused by the opportunity to spread awareness.

Bama Covered allows a “unique opportunity to impact the lives of thousands of Alabamians by providing them with the information to be better aware of their health care options,” Vestavia Smith, a biomedical science major, said.

Students can get involved by visit-

ing the website, BamaCovered.org, and getting started with training to become either a connector, catalyst or captain for our University. The deadline for this spring’s launch is March 31, and once a student commits to participate, it will be expected that he or she follow through with that commitment.

“I’m really excited to get AED involved with an issue so widely preva-

lent in Alabama, and I am excited to be a part of the future of health care in our state,” Veena Danthuluni said.

Whether working directly with enrollers, connecting people to the information and resources they need to take the next steps, or potentially leading and organizing our own Bama Covered program on campus, your help is needed, so get involved today!

VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014

jagLIFE

EMMA MITCHELL, JAGLIFE EDITOR eem1002@jagmail.southalabama.edu

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Weekly Lowdown

Local restaurant gives back during winter storm

Monday > Feb. 10

By JORDAN KNOX

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kjk1103@jagmail.southalabama.edu

D

uring the history-making winter storm two weeks ago, much of the city of Mobile, Ala. shut down because many southern states simply are not prepared to operate in such extreme weather. More than an inch of ice and snow was reported, and while that may not seem like much, it was enough to upset the South.

The Alabama Department of Transportation declared all bridges, highways and interstates impassable, leaving hundreds of people stranded.

Many were stuck in their cars on the road and were forced to abandon their vehicles and walk many miles to their destination.

While much of the city was seeking refuge from the cold indoors, Mobile’s emergency personnel was hard at work trying to answer calls and make the roads passable. Even after the warnings to stay indoors and off the roads, many people still attempted to drive.

According to weather.com, five trafficrelated deaths were reported statewide, and 23 people were injured. Aside from handling dozens of emergency calls, the first responders were also in charge of clearing and spreading sand over the

Black history jeopardy - Library Auditorium, 7 p.m. - teams of 3, monetary prize

Tuesday > Feb. 11

JORDAN KNOX | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Moe’s Original Bar-B-Que in downtown Mobile served city employees and Mobilians during the winter storm that shut down the rest of the city. slick, ice-covered roads.

The bad weather began Jan. 28, and several places across the city were beginning to close. Throughout the night and into the next day, the conditions

worsened, forcing the majority of the city to shut down.

Despite so many places being closed, one restaurant in Mobile decided that it would be a good idea to re-

main open. Moe’s Original Bar-B-Que remained in business for those who could still make it out and about. Grant Saltz, co-owner of the downtown resSee Moe’s Page 8.

•

Spring Career Fair - Mitchell Center Globe, 1 - 4 p.m.

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Black history scavenger hunt - Student Center, 6 p.m.

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Archduke Trio in concert, “Famous Piano Quartets” with Brian Brown - LPAC, 7:30 p.m. $8 general admission, $5 USA students and faculty

Wednesday > Feb. 12 •

Thursday > Feb. 13 •

Question of the Edition:

What is the WORST thing about Valentine’s Day? Scott Singleton People actually go out and spend money to buy gifts for each other on a made up ‘holiday’ as some way to prove that they love each other. But hey if you feel like you need to spend money to prove love...go for it..

Karima Kemp Single people being passive aggressive about being single on Valentines Day. I swear I’ll throw a baby Cupid if I see one more “Singles Awareness Day” post.

Zadora Edwards Other than the fact that its highly commercialized and causes people unnecessary sadness. I would say the fact that no one gives any original gifts, come on the whole flowers, balloons, teddy bear and candy thing is so played out. Do something thats worth me liking on facebook.

Brittney Elizabeth Gers Ridiculous expectations! I’ve heard girls in my classes talk about how they “better get flowers” and go on a lavish date. Sheesh! I’m happy just to spend time with my husband. Every day should be Valentine’s day when you love somebody!

Matt Anderson The static electricity building up in my apartment from my 95 cats.

Coleman Wolf I’m alone, and there’s no one beside me.....

Justin Kendall The unreal expectations that women put on mem to spend money on them with the reward of possible promiscuous intent Kathy Dean candy isn’t half price yet!

“I NEED HELP CHOOSING MY MAJOR” workshop - Career Services, 2 p.m., registration required IMC presents Will Johnson - Satori Coffee House, doors open 7:30 p.m., begins at 8 p.m., Students free with I.D., $5 non-students

Friday > Feb. 14 •

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

•

Dr. Anderson, “Variable Response of Coastal Environments to Accelerated Sea Level Rise and Climate Change - Archaeology museum, 3:30 p.m.

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Minority Preview Night - Mitchell Center main floor, 5:30 7:30 p.m.

Want your event featured?

E-mail the name, date, time, price, place and a brief tagline (under 10 words) to eem1002@jagmail.southalabama.edu

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VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014

IMC presents Will Johnson live Moe’s open at 7:30 p.m., and the show starts jwr1321@jagmail.southalabama.edu at 8 p.m. Admission is free for all USA students and $5 for everyone else.

Fans of good lyrics and acoustics tudents looking for something to do Thursday, Feb. 13 can en- should not be disappointed. Pitchfork, joy the music of Will Johnson at the the independent music website, raves about Johnson’s live performance.

Satori Coffee House.

Johnson, who also played at Satori According a May 2006 Pitchfork arin September 2012 and in February ticle by Will Bowers, “Live, Johnson 2013, has been praised for his haunt- is both stout and spry, like a stud lepingly poetic voice and superb lyrics. rechaun or a Hollywood version of a The show will be presented by South’s meth middleman.” Bowers and others Independent Music Collective. Doors at Pitchfork are not the only ones who agree. In a New York Times article, Ben Gibbard, lead singer and guitarist for Death Cab for Cutie, called Johnson “a phenomenal lyricist,” and in an NPR staff article, he was hailed as “one of the hardest-working people in indie rock.”

Johnson, the lead singer of both Centro-Matic and South San Gabriel, is also an active member of several other musical supergroups, including Monsters of Folk, Overseas and New Multitudes.

His most recent solo album, “ScorCOURTESY OF JUSTIN STCLAIR pion,” released in September 2012, Will Johnson performs at Satori at a explores a delicate previous IMC show. subject for most

By JASON RUFFIN

S

modern artists: the notion of family, home and the relationships that shape them. “A lot of artists are afraid to go down that road. Which is understandable,” Johnson said in his bio on www.will-johnson.com. “You don’t necessarily want to lay everything out on the table. That said, it’s pulling at you for a reason, and I think there’s a cleansing that can come through facing it and writing about it.”

However, Johnson’s album traverses these subjects skillfully. With a sound more akin to folk or blues than indie-rock, “Scorpion” showcases what most albums in recent days are missing--heart. Johnson’s voice softly pierces the mellow sound of both acoustic and electric guitars as his tracks roll along.

A look at Johnson’s tour schedule will bring up a list of living room shows. When asked what his favorite thing about performing small venues such as Satori, Johnson said, “I’ve always liked the intimacy, energy and intensity of a small venue, so long as the sound is good. I think that type of atmosphere can peel things back to a pure listening experience and remove some of the barriers and sensory distractions we sometimes encounter in the larger venues.”

For more information on Johnson, you can visit his website at www.willjohnson.com. The site includes all the tracks on “Scorpion” as well as a list of tour dates and a short bio. To learn more about the Independent Music Collective and upcoming IMC shows, check out their Facebook page, where you can also listen to a live track of Johnson during his visit last year.

Continued from Page 7

taurant, lives within walking distance of the establishment and said that a few of his employees do as well. Saltz even picked up a few employees in his truck.

They all braved the cold and opened the restaurant as usual. Saltz said they operated with about half their normal crew of ten. Moe’s not only served those who simply showed up to the restaurant, but they also decided to give back to the emergency personnel who worked so tirelessly to ensure the safety of the Mobile community.

Saltz said that he sent a text to his friend at the 95 KSJ radio station and asked her to get the word out that they would be open for business. The announcement, posted on the 95 KSJ Facebook page and announced on the air, said Moe’s would be open to the public and would be giving a free meal to all emergency personnel.

Saltz said he got the idea for giving out the free meals when he was walking

into work and noticed no one on the usually crowded street except a few police cars. “I figured they had had their fill of gas station food during this storm,” Saltz said, “and they deserved a good meal.” What he thought was going to be a simple, slow day at work soon turned into something much bigger.

Around 250 emergency workers were fed, not to mention the other people who trekked through the ice to get there. Moe’s served their full menu all day and gave emergency personnel their choice of anything on the menu. Pulled pork, ribs, smoked chicken and wings were among some of the most popular items. Saltz said that they ran out of several items, including macaroni and cheese. “We never run out of mac and cheese,” Saltz said, laughing. He said his main motivation for serving Mobile’s men and women in uniform was that they do so much for the community and he thought it was important to take care of them for a change. Moe’s Original Bar-B-Que is open seven days a week and is located on Springhill Avenue in the heart of downtown Mobile.

JORDAN KNOX | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Mobile film on racism debutes at Crescent Theater

By KATHRYN SEGERS kjs901@jagmail.southalabama.edu

T

he documentary film “Mobile in Black and White,” or “MIBW,” was shown Feb. 9 at the Crescent Theater in downtown Mobile, Ala. The University of South Alabama, Mobile United and the History Museum of Mobile have collaborated to create this production.

Dr. Robert Gray, manager of Faculty Development Services for USA’s Innovation in Learning Center, and Dr. Joe’l Lewis, associate professor in USA’s Department of Professional Studies, have produced the film that explores race relations in Mobile. The

film is currently being featured at film festivals across the nation and being recognized as one of the top 50 research, scholarly and creative works in USA’s 50-year history.

“Although the subject of this film project is structural racism,” Lewis said, “the theme of it is unity. Unity by addressing the disparity in our community and making it the best it can be. We want everyone to be empowered to examine the circles where we: live, work, socialize, worship and serve. We first have to come together and have dialogue. ‘MIBW’ is a tool to start the conversation.”

“MIBW” is designed for broadcast, theatrical or festival delivery.

This documentary project examines the ways racism continues to spread through the structures and institutions of a supposedly post-racial world.

“The ‘Mobile in Black and White’ project is much bigger than the feature film,” Gray said. “The heart of the project is a series of four 40-minute segments that are designed to be viewed in conjunction with structured community conversations. This four-step process is intended to raise people’s awareness of how racial issues still play a part in our community and how we might be able to come together as a community to address them. Our intention is that the con-

versations will be where change happens. The video segments are simply a starting place for those conversations.”

Gray continued, “The 90-minute feature version of the film combines some of the essential elements from the four segments and is intended, primarily, to draw attention to and build support for the project, and hopefully to inspire people to start a conversation with a group they are affiliated with.”

More than 100 interviews conducted for the project could not be used in the finished products. Many of these can be found on the project website. The community conversa-

tion process is also still in development.

Dr. Kimberley Littlefield, assistant vice president for research and learning, said, “As one of the 50 in 50: Five Decades of Research, Scholarly Activity and Creative Works, ‘Mobile in Black and White’ is an example of a transformative humanities project that will impact the local, regional and national conversations on racism and disparity.”

To view the first segment of the film, request access to the three other segments or find out more information, visit the project’s website at http://mobileinblackandwhite.org.

SPORTS

ALYSSA NEWTON SPORTS EDITOR akn1104@jagail.southalabama.edu

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VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014

South Alabama gains new talent on National Signing Day National Signing Day brings new faces to fill positions of need for the Jaguars’ upcoming 2014 season

By SAMUEL BROWN sjb1102@jagmail.southalabama.edu

T

he first Wednesday day in February, better known as “National Signing Day” to College Football fans and coaches, is the day where thousands of High School athletes sign a National Letter of Intent (LOI) officially committing to join a college’s football program.

College coaches desire to fill needs to for their team with these new, incoming athletes. That is exactly what South Alabama Head Coach Joey Jones and his staff accomplished on February 5.

This past season was deemed a success as the Jaguars went on to finish a bowl eligible 6-6 in their first season of bowl eligibility, but the Jags lost a lot of key players from the 2013 squad, specifically on the defensive side of the football.

Defensive line and secondary were areas of emphasis as the Jags looked to bring in instant starters, as well as provide depth.

“We felt like we really needed depth back in the secondary and we signed five,” Coach Joey Jones said.

“We were trying to sign four on the defensive front, we ended up signing three. So we will be looking for one more here after this to bring in as an inside defensive lineman. Those two positions were our two biggest concerns.”

The Jaguars signed Jimmie Gipson, Bryson Johnson and Caleb Butler on the Defensive Line.

Coach Jones highlighted Jimmie Gipson as one of the “big names” in the class as he looks to come in and start right away while attempting to replace the 13 sacks lost between departing seniors Alex Page and Pat Moore.

A sack machine himself, Jimmie Gipson led all Junior Colleges with 17 sacks last season and looks to continue that trend as a Jaguar.

Defensive tackle Bryson Johnson was one of the biggest needs in this class as the Jags lost three defensive tackles from last season.

Many expect the signee from North Dakota State College of Science to step in the rotation and play right away.

To fill the needs for the secondary, the Jags added safeties C.J. Johnson, Malcolm Buggs and Nigel Green along with corners Marice Fluellen, Darian Mills, and Jeremy Reaves. C.J. Johnson can play either linebacker or safety as he played outside linebacker his senior season and played safety his junior season.

Despite the offense expected to be deep at many positions this upcoming season, the Jags added a few key players on that side of the ball which are expected to be key contributors down the stretch.

Two out of the three players Coach Jones mentioned as “big names” were

offensive players.

These were wide receiver Claude Garrett, part of the duo coming from North Dakota State College of Science, and tight end Braedon Bowman from Scottsdale Community College.

Even though the offense already features one of the most dynamic tight ends from the Sun Belt in Wes Saxton, Bowman should come in and make an immediate impact as South Alabama’s offense is best when it features two impact tight ends.

Bowman had over 1,000 receiving yards and was named to 1st team AllAmerican in the Junior College ranks.

Wide receiver Claude Garrett adds

Curtis Williams, an offensive tackle from ASA College in New York.

Coach Jones believes offensive line is the second deepest position on the team. With Curtis Williams having a great opportunity to play right away with the deep depth at offensive line, it’s really a testimony to how great of a player he really is.

The coaching staff did a great job at keeping Williams under the radar so that he would become a Jag and not go anywhere else.

Along with adding a few solid spe-

cial teams players, the coaching staff did a great job at filling some huge needs and adding a few extra talented players at already deep positions.

With the lookout for maybe one more defensive lineman and with considering potential transfers, it seems as if the Jaguar roster is all but set for the 2014 season.

There a bunch of new faces and a bunch of new names to learn, but which new face will become the next Jaguar great?

Stay tuned.

“

We feel really good about this class. We evaluate guys on our own and we go out and do a great job doing that.

-head coach Joey Jones

”

to what Coach Jones believes is the deepest position on the team.

“For the first time, we have anywhere from nine to ten (wide receivers) who can really play,” Jones said. “I think wide receiver will be our deepest position”.

Another big signee – literally- is

ALYSSA NEWTON | SPORTS EDITOR

Head coach Joey Jones talks about the signees at the National Signing Day news conference Feb. 5.

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VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014

Welcome to JagNation The University of South Alabama football’s 2014 signing class Makcolm Muggs DB Opelika HS

Braedon Bowman* TE Scottsdale CC

H: 5’9, W: 195 Hometown: Opelika, Ala. Three stars from ESPN.com, two from Rivals.com, Scout.com and 247Sports.com ranking him among the top 70 in Alabama.

H: 6’4, W: 210 Hometown: Mesa, Ariz.

First-team NJCAA All-American in 2013 after catching 66 passes for 1,030 yards and 13 touchdowns.

Nigel Green* Safety Miss Gulf Coast CC

Marice Fluellen DB Northview HS H: 5’10, W: 175 Hometown: Dothan, Ala Earned two stars from Rivals.com and 247Sports. Finished senior season with 47 stops, two interceptions nine passes broken up and two forced fumbles. Recruited by Miss State, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Purdue, Southern Miss and Texas State.

H: 6’1, W: 160 Hometown: Flowood, Miss.

Ranked No. 4 on the squad with 41 tackless total, credited with season-best 10 stops in seven-point victory over Hinds (Miss) CC. Recruited by Auburn and South Florida.

Corbin Finlayson OL Palm Beach Gardens HS H: 6’2, W: 300 Hometown: Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. Earned two stars from 247Sports. Three-year letterwinner at Palm Gardens HS, although he missed senior season due to injury. Recruited by Florida Atlantic and Florida International.

Darian Mills DB Winter Haven HS H: 5’1, W: 160 Hometown: Winter Haven, Fla. Played in Mid-Florida All-Star Game. Blue Devil’s QB senior year throwing for 1,300 yards leading WHS to district championship and a 9-3 overall record. Defensive back and wide reciever as a junior. Scholarship offers from Ball State and Toledo, also recruited by Louisville, South Florida, Indiana, Connecticut and Western Kentucky.

C

Josh Smith DB Cascade HS

Caleb Butler DE/OLB Enterprise HS H: 6’4, W: 240 Hometown: Enterprise, Ala Named first-team all-state by the Alabama Sports Writers Association, Dothan Eagle Super 12 team and Southests Sun’s defensive player of the year. Two star recruit by 247Sports, Scout. com and Rivals.com. Recruited by Troy.

H: 6’0, W: 255 Hometown: Coldwater, Miss.

Named first-team NJCAA All-American in the fall after posting 65 total stops included 24 behind the line of scrimmage.

H: 6’4, W: 250 Hometown: Decatur, Ga. Second honorable mention all-state selection and first-team all-district last year after recording 3,765 yards of offense and 40 scores.

Zac Henry PK Westminister

H: 6’2, W: 195 Hometown: Panama City, Fla. Recieved two stars from 247Sports. Particpated in the Max Emfinger All-American Bowl. Was 175-of-268 passing for 2,740 yards and 25 touchdowns carrying for 150 times for 1,025 yards and 15 scores.

H: 5’11, W: 175 Hometown: North East, Pa. Kicked for two years at Westminister. As a sophomore in 2011, ranked second on the team in scoring with 44 points after making all nine field-goal attempts and 17-of-21 extra-point tried. Lettered three times in both soccor and track and football at nmorth East high.

Claude Garrett WR North Dakota State College of Science H: 6’2, W: 210 Hometown: Calumet City, Ill. Named first-team all-Midwest Football Conference his sophomore year. Recorded 53 catches for 772 yards and four scores to rank in the top 20 nationally in receptions, recieving yards and yards per game.

C.J. Johnson DB Colquitt County HS

H: 6’4, W: 205 Hometown: Pensacola, Fla. Named first-team all-state South Division after recording team-leading 66 tackles his sophomore season. Total included eight stops behind the line of scrimmage, and he also broke up two passes. Posted a season-best 14 tackles against Copiah-Lincoln (Miss) CC with two for loss including sack

H: 6’1, W: 215 Hometown: Douglas, Ga. Rated by ESPN.com among the top 15 safties in Georgia. Credited with 80 total tackles, included six behind the line of scrimmage and a sack. Scholarship offers from Arkansas, Mississippi, North Carolina State and Central Florida.

H: 6’2, W: 180 Hometown: Milton, Fla. Three star prospect according to ESPN.com.

247Sports.com with a two star rating, rated him fifth in the country as a punter. A first-team and all-area selection as a senior at Milton HS. Punted 43 times for an average of 44 yards per kick. Connected 8-of-10 field-goal attempts and was 15-of16 on extra points. 80 percent of kickoffs resulted in touchbacks.

Noah Fisher OL Decatur HS

Davis Dallas QB Rutherford HS

Demarius Rancifer* ILB Pearl River (Miss) CC

Corliss Waitman P Milton HS

H: 6’2, W: 215 Hometown: Everette, Wash.

Two stars from Scout.com and Rivals.com Rated among the top 25 prospects in Washington. All-Western Conference selection as QB and DB and was named all-Snohomish County at QB while earning honors as a punter. Played positions at Chiefland HS: QB, RB, WR, LB, S, P.

Jimmie Gipson III* DE/OLB East Mississippi CC

Chris Wilkerson DB Bessemer City HS

H: 6’1, W: 180 Hometown: Bessemer, Ala. Two stars from Scout.com, Rivals.com and 247Sports. Rated among the top 75 recruits in state by 247Sports. Intercepted nine passes in his final two seasons. Named first-team allWest Birmingham and honorable mention allmetro as senior posting 49 tackles, including 7 sacks and 11 passes broken up.

Curtis Williams H: 6’4, W: 285 Hometown: Miami Fla. Second-team all-Northeast Football Conference selection. Part of a line that had OL ASAC finishing among the top 20 nationally in rushing (No. 14, 205.1 ypg), passing ASA College (No. 20, 209.1 ypg), total (No. 17, 414.2 ypg), and scoring (No. 10, 37.8 ppg) offense.

Bryson Johnson DL North Dakota State College of Science H: 6’3, W: 300 Hometown: Champlin, Minn.

Second-team all-Midwest Football Conference selection as a sophomore after recording 59 total stops. Collected 13 stops, 10 unassisted, and had two tackles behind line of scrimmage in seaso finale against Iowa Central CC.

PC

Jeremy Reaves DB Pensacola Catholic HS

H: 5’11, W: 180 Hometown: Pensacola, Fla Two star recruit by Scout.com and 247Sports.

As a senior recorded 39 tackles and intercepted five passes. Was selected as honorable mention all-state while earning first-team all-area and allNorthwest Florida honors.

Chason Milner OLB Spanish For HS

H: 6’3, W: 230 Hometown: Spanish Fort, Ala. Two stars from Scout.com and247Sports.com 24 stops- 19 solo -two tackles for a loss, an interception, two forced fumbles and a pair of passes broken up in three contests his senior year before suffereing season-ending injury. Credited with 71 tackles as a junior. Recieved offers from UAB, Tulane and Old Diminion.

* denotes junior-college transfer who signed in December

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VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014

South can’t contain Trojans’ Williams, lose on the road Troy basketball breaks longest Sun Belt losing streak, South Alabama drops to 7-16, 1-9 after loss

By ALYSSA NEWTON akn1104@jagmail.southalabama.edu

T

he contest between the South Alabama Jaguars and the Troy Trojans proved to be a fight until the buzzer sounded to end streaks hanging over each of the programs’ heads.

Going into the contest, Troy was 0-4 in home games against Sun Belt opponents. Against South Alabama, Troy held the Sun Belt’s longest losing streak against a conference opponent, not winning a game against the Jags for the last five years.

South Alabama has lost the last four games, and the team has not won on the road all season.

This game was the chance for both programs to get out of a funk and drop the baggage of their current losing streaks.

But the second half of the contest between the two proved too much to make that goal attainable for the Jaguars. Troy went on to defeat South Alabama 79-74.

Hunter Williams of Troy scored 21 out of his 26 points in the sec-

ond half of the game, hitting seven 3-pointers acting as a catalyst for the Trojan win Thursday.

“We did a great job on Williams in the first half,” head coach Matthew Graves told USAJaguars.com.

“The problem is we have to sustain it for 40 minutes—it’s a 40-minute game—and we’ve had different issues like this during the season where we’ve not been able to put together a complete game. A shooter like Williams, all it takes is one to go in. … Unfortunately, a good offensive effort was wasted again tonight because we didn’t dig down and guard.”

The Jaguars went almost five minutes without a field goal late in the first half, allowing the Trojans to go on a 9-1 run and take a 30-29 lead until Mychal Ammons broke the drought with a dunk to go into the half.

The Jaguars led 31-30 going into halftime against the Trojans. This lead was soon history, going into the second half. Hunter Williams’ opening 3-pointer in the second half gave Troy a 33-31 lead and the Trojans led

the contest until the final buzzer.

Senior Augustine Rubit led the Jaguars with 25 points, his best since his career-high of 35 against Gonzaga in December.

Freshman Ken Williams and sophomore Barrington Stevens III each put up 13 points in the contest, with Stevens hitting his career-high with six assists.

Antoine Allen, who was averaging 17 points in his previous three games, was held to only eight points during the game, with seven of the points made within the last four minutes of the game.

“When you get hit in the mouth with a punch, you have to get back off the deck and go back at them or you can stand there and keep getting punched,” Graves said. “Unfortunately, too many times we get punched, and you run out of time.

Regrettably for the Jaguars, the punches by Hunter Williams of the Troy Trojans would prove too much to come back for the win.

The Jags will host Arkansas State Feb. 13 at 7:05 p.m.

Turnovers costly in Troy Lady Jags basketball drop game in Troy, lose 78-53

By ALYSSA NEWTON akn1104@jagmail.southalabama.edu

I

n the contest against Troy last Thursday, the Lady Jags’ 27 turnovers allowed Troy to take advantage and seal the win in their house against the Jags.

Breanna Hall led the Jags with 12 points in the game along with three assists and three steals.

Meghan Dunn scored 11 points for the Jaguars, making it 14 times this season that the senior has put up double digits in the contest.

Ronneka Robertson completed the night with 8 points and 10 rebounds. Out of these 10 rebounds, nine came on the defensive glass.

But turnovers weren’t the only thing that the Lady Jags struggled with in the Trojan Arena.

South Alabama struggled throughout the game to get shots to fall. The Jags were 21-of-59 from the floor for 35.6 percent for the entire game. In the second half, USA would struggle with 8-for-31 for just 25.8 percent.

The worst part of the first half was not the lack of shots on USA’s part, though. It was the loss of point guard Brittany Webb.

Webb injured her knee in the first half of the game and was forced to sit out for the remainder of the contest. “(The loss of Webb) changed our whole ro-

tation,” head coach Terry Fowler told USAJaguars. “She’s our primary ball-handler and that changed everything. Meghan Dunn had to play the whole game and guard hard. I thought fatigue and frustration set in for us. Those are two tough things to overcome.”

In the first half, USA shot 46.4 percent, but turned over the ball 13 times. The Trojans used the pressure and the Jags’ mistakes, gaining 13 points.

The Jaguars continued to battle in the second half and held the deficit around 14-17 points for the majority of the second half until a late drought. With seven minutes remaining in the contest, USA did not make a field goal during the next six minutes. Troy took advantage of the time and led the game by as much as 25 points.

“Our team fought and didn’t quit tonight,” Fowler said. “We finally started attacking (in the second half), but the shots just didn’t go for us. We had opportunities to score at the basket, but they just didn’t fall. … We’ll have to move forward and get ready to play in our next game.”

USA will next host Arkansas State Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 11:30 a.m. This will be the Jaguars’ annual “Pack the House” game.

South

ALYSSA NEWTON | SPORTS EDITOR

Barrington Stevens scored 13 points against the Trojans along with six assists, his new career high.

12

VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014

Jags start season with a bang in Mardi Gras Invitational South Alabama dominates home invitational ending the Jags’ opening weekend undefeated 5-0 sjb1102@jagmail.southalabama.edu

T

his past weekend, South Alabama softball held the 2014 Mardi Gras Invitational. The teams who participated in this invitational were Syracuse, McNeese State, Austin Peay State, and UAB. The invitational could not have gone any better as the Jags dominated their competition, concluding the invitational with a 5-0 record. This is the first time in South Alabama softball history that the team has started off the season with 5 wins and no losses.

“I thought it was big for us to come out and set the tone like that for the season,” said head coach Becky Clark. “It was big for us to get off on the right foot in front of our home crowd, with a long road stretch coming up.”

On Thursday, South Alabama took on No. 21 UAB. In college softball, if a team is winning by 8 or more after the fifth inning, the game is over. That is exactly what the Jags did to UAB. Pitcher Farish Beard was almost perfect as she threw a complete game 1 hitter as the Jags won 8 to 0. Stephanie Pilkington and Chloe Rathburn led the Jags with 3 RBIs each. Chloe Rathburn hit her first career homerun and the first homerun of the Jag’s season in the third inning.

On Friday, South Alabama took on Syracuse in much more of a pitcher’s duel.

Pitcher Hannah Campbell took the mound as she threw a 1 run complete game as the Jags held

off the Orange to win 2 to 1. Campbell recorded 12 strike outs which included her 500 career strike out.

Emily Messer accounted for both runs as she scored in the third inning on a sacrifice bunt by Gwen Jones and drove in a crucial run in the sixth on an infield single. This run was crucial as Nicole Lundstrom of Syrcause hit a solo home run in the top of the seventh inning which would had tied up the game otherwise.

Early Saturday evening, South Alabama took on McNeese State. Freshman Holly McKinnon had her first career start as she went on to pitch 4.1 innings to lead South Alabama to their 3rd win as they beat McNeese State 4 to 1. Hannah Campbell entered the game in the fifth inning and went on to pitch the rest of the game to earn her first save on the season while striking out 4.. Kaitlyn Griffith led the Jags with 3 RBIs including a three run homerun in the 3rd inning. Alex Breeden hit a solo homerun in the sixth inning to provide insurance for the Jaguars.

On Saturday night, South Alabama took on Syracuse for the second time in as many nights. This game was not nearly as close as the night before as Farish Beard took the mound and once again threw a complete game 1 hitter in which the Jags won 8 to 0 in a mercy-rule shortened game. Farish Beard struck out 13 batters in only 5 innings, which was only 1 off of her career high of 14. This game was a homerun fest for the Jags in which three players; Stephanie Pilkington, Kaitlyn Griffith and Alex Breeden all hit home runs. This was the second game in a row in

which Kaitlyn Griffith and Alex Breeden went deep.

On Sunday evening, South Alabama took on Austin Peay for the final game of the Mardi Gras Invitational.

Kaleigh Floore got the start and went on to pitch 2.1 innings. Farish Beard relieved Floore in the bottom of the third inning and went on to finish the game striking out 6 to earn her third win in 5 games

COURTESY OF USAJAGUARS

By SAMUEL BROWN

Farish Beard was named the Invitational’s MVP.

as the Jags beat the Lady Govs 12 to 0. Alex Breeden led the Jags with 4 RBIs including her third homerun in three straight games. This was the third mercy-rule shortened win for the Jaguars in only 5 games.

“I think it’s awesome when some of your new people can come in and contribute right away,” Coach Becky Clark said. “That’s your goal when you’re recruiting. It helps from a depth standpoint.

As you go early on, you’re trying to see what people can do; moving people through the lineup and seeing how they respond in certain situations. It’s great to see those kids step up and get the job done.”

Farish Beard was named Mardi Gras Invitational Tournament MVP as she pitched 12.2 innings, allowing 3 hits, 1 walk and no runs while striking out 29 batters. As a whole, the South Alabama pitching staff recorded a 0.48 ERA in 29 innings, allowing only 2 runs and striking out 50 batters.

Farish Beard, Hannah Campbell, Alex Breeden and Kaitlyn Griffith were all named to the Mardi Gras Invitational All-Tournament Team.

South Alabama outscored their opponents 34 to 2 and hit a combined .318 as their opponents only hit .119. Stephanie Pilkington, who only batted .121 last season, led all Jaguars at the plate during the tournament, going 8 for 14 with 7 RBIs and 3 doubles, 2 triples and 4 runs scored. Pilkington batted .571 throughout the tournament.

The Jags will now travel to Athens, Ga., as they take on Ohio University on March 14 for their first game of the Bulldog Invitational.

South Alabama Rugby friendly season gearing up Rugby adds new talent to the roster, hosts high school tournament at intramural fields Feb. 15

By JENNA MUNDAY

jnm1105@jagmail.southalabama.edu

A

lthough this is the off-season for rugby, the South Alabama rugby team is gearing up for some exciting events taking place later in the semester.

From sending players to a Select Deep South All-Star tournament, to hosting high school teamsright here on campus, the University of South Alabama rugby club is working hard to get its name out to the public.

Since the main season is over, games seem to come on the fly now without much warning.

Currently, the schedule for the South Alabama rugby team is open with only one game against UAB in early March; however, there are other games pending.

“This season is more or less a ‘friendly’ season,” Cameron Douglas said. “None of the games count against you and are played more for bragging rights.”

Apart from the few games played in the offseason, the 7’s season is coming up very soon. In 7’s season, instead of playing 15 on 15, the game is played with 7 on 7.

The same size field is used, just with fewer players and less time on the clock. Although the program has an impressive track record, there

are hopes to further improve the rugby program and bring it to its full potential.

“I am hoping to grow the program to where we have income and full support from the surrounding areas and the school,” Douglas said.

“We have league fees, along with referee fees that need to be paid every year. Also, we need some new jerseys extremely bad!”

The team is looking into getting sponsorships on team shirts, that way they can be seen, and recognized, around campus. The South Alabama rugby team will soon be hosting 4 high school teams from 3 different states: Niceville, FL., Brother Martin High School (LA.), St. Paul High (New Orleans, LA.), and Daphne High School.

This is the second year in a row for the club to host this event and it will play a huge role in getting the rugby’s team’s name out there, along with South’s name. Dr. Connors has been a huge player in getting this event together and will be hosting a lunch for the students, along with telling them information about the university. “This is a great opportunity to generate not only more incoming players, but more students here at South,” says Douglas.

The event will take place Saturday, Feb. 15 South is also set to send four select players to the Deep South Rugby All-Star tournament this year on Feb. 22 and 23.

The team will be sending Cameron Douglas, Brett Halbe, Daniel Johnson, and Hunter Pinneo.

For those interested in joining, the rugby team is looking to do more recruiting stations in the Rec Center lobby, as they have done in the past. No experience is required and you are basically guaranteed playing time this semester.

“Just be ready to hit and run a lot,” Douglas said. “There are no pads, but there are proper techniques to tackle and play, so it is a fairly safe game to play.” Contact Cameron Douglas (camlayne@gmail.com) or find the South Alabama Rugby Club on Facebook for more information. on the lower intramural fields.

ALYSSA NEWTON | SPORTS EDITOR

South Alabama faced Spring Hill this past weekend as part of their friendly season.

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VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014

Broken school records in Birmingham Women’s, men’s track and field break three school records at Samford Invitational

By SAVON MORRIS savonmorris@yahoo.com

S

outh Alabama’s men’s and women’s track and field teams traveled to Birmingham, Alabama to compete in the Samford Invitational. The Samford Invitational marked the third track invitational for the Jags and coach Paul Brueske wanted to see improvement from his team.

“We’re looking for some improved performances all around this week,” said head track and field coach Paul Brueske.

“Our goal is always continued improvement from week to week in every event, and I think we’ve done a good job of that so far this season. We want to see some people continue to move up higher in the conference rankings, so we’re going to keep plugging away and hopefully set some new personal best.”

The Samford Invitational was a two day event and it began with the men’s weight throw followed immediately by the women’s weight throw.

The women’s pentathlon and the first four events of the men’s heptathlon – the 60-meter dash, long jump, shot put and high jump.

Senior Bobbie Williamson and Sophomore Morgan Jones placed 19 and 23 and women’s weight throw. Williamson threw 16.63m and Jones threw 14.07m.

Leader of the men’s track and field, senior Adam Patterson, placed fourth in the men’s shot put throwing a personal best 16.83m.

Three spots behind was fellow Jag teammate, Jeff Long who threw a personal best 16.24m Adam Patterson eclipse the Jaguar record of 15.75m that had stood since 1974 at the Arkansas Invitational and he is still improving each week.

In the men’s 60 m hurdles senior, Tyler Agee placed third in the preliminaries with a time of 8 seconds. In the finals Tyler Agee placed third again, but with a time of 8.35.

Freshman Lamia Miller placed 19th in the women’s shot put. Overall the Invitational was a success with three personal records in shot put, 5K run and the triple jump.

Miller believes that each invitational is a stepping stone.

“It’s not hard actually competing with upperclassmen,” Miller said. “I look at is a blessing because I can learn from

them.”

Three Jags would set new school records during their time in Birmingham, Ala. Kristin Parry captured first place in the women’s 5,000-meter run, recording a new Jaguar record in the process with a time of 17:08.29.

After an individual victory in the men’s triple jump at the Jags’ previous meet, sophomore Jaylon Holt broake a school record in the event Saturday when he leapt 15.12m to capture fourth place.

Patterson, Parry and Holt join senior Garrett Schumacher on the list of Jaguar student-athletes to set school records during the Samford Invitational.

“We had some really good performances this weekend,” said head track and field coach Paul Brueske. “Both the men’s and the women’s teams seem to be heading in the right direction as we approach the conference championships.

We had some younger folks step up for us this weekend, which is always good. I also think that we have some people who are on the verge of some big things.”

Jags will travel back to Birmingham, AL on Feb. 14 for the Southern Miss Invitational.

Follow us for news, updates and play-by-play tweets: @USAVGSports Cole Billingsley @CDolla_Billz4 Outfielder Mobile has experienced all 4 seasons this week. The weather here is so unpredictable. Ready for warm weather Drew Dearman @Drewski72_ Offensive lineman If no one posts a TBT picture on a Thursday, did the Thursday actually happen?

COURTESY OF USAJAGUARS

Kristin Perry was one of three Jags to break a school record at the Samford Invitational.

Valentine’s Day with a first love: Baseball In the end, love and the game of baseball really aren’t that different after all

By ALYSSA NEWTON akn1104@jagmail.southalabama.edu

B

abe Ruth once said, “Love the game of baseball and baseball will love you.”

With Valentine’s Day as South Alabama’s opening day, it’s hard not to link love with the game of baseball. For many fans and South Alabama players, baseball was once a first love.

“I fell in love with it when I was a little kid,” junior baseball player Bud Collura said. “I grew up around the game. My dad played in college and he got a chance to play professional baseball, so I just grew up around it. I’ve always loved it.”

Whether it is through family or region affiliation, America’s greatest pastime has won the hearts of people all across the United States. This is especially true for all the little boys who dreamed of one day playing in the majors.

It all starts with a bat, a tee and a ball.

Many players started their baseball careers as early as 4 years old, playing teeball.

“I started playing baseball since before I can remember,” Collura said. “It’s always been the sport I’ve played. I just fell in love with it at a young age.”

But once the tees slowly go away and the game becomes more competitive, just as in any relationship, you find you have to work on it daily to become better and improve. You spend hours practicing your trade, learning your strengths and what things you need to work on.

“As much time and effort as we put into baseball, it’s like having another job or a girlfriend you have to put up with,” sophomore infielder Hayden Jones said.

“You have to talk to it every day; you have to give it attention. It’s the same thing.”

To compare a game to a relationship seems to be an “out of the ballpark” concept, but in reality, it makes a lot of sense.

When you’re a little kid, you have the idea of what baseball is supposed to be like. Your father teaches you the basics: how to catch, throw and hit. The older you grow, the more you learn and are able to apply to your game. The longer you’re in it, the more you have to practice to become better and grow with the fast pace that the game is going.

“The game itself doesn’t change,” Jones said. “If you grow with it, you’ll be exactly where you need to be. It’s a hard game. … You don’t have to be the biggest guy to play baseball. As long as you play the hardest, people will love to come

watch you. It’s a game guys play their hearts out in.”

How true is that with love? Love stays the same. It never changes nor goes away.

It’s up to us to grow with the love we share with others. You don’t always have to be the best at what you do, but as long as your heart is in it, you’ll succeed. And then sometimes, you just know when it’s right.

“It hit me as a kid that this is what I wanted to do,” sophomore outfielder Cole Billingsley said. “Every kid dreams of growing up to be a major league baseball player, but this is something I love to do and knew I wanted to do.”

Sometimes love brings us to incredible opportunities and allows us to make memories we will never forget.

For Billingsley, this memory happened before he ever stepped foot onto Stanky Field. Billingsley was involved in the Junior Olympics as a member of USA Baseball’s 16-Under national team. The undefeated USA team dominated the Pan-Am AA Youth Championships tournament, defeating Mexico 11-4 in the finals for the gold medal. Baseball brought him to a place where many only dream about being.

For Jones, this memory was the fai-

rytale ending against Troy in the 2013 season when South Alabama came back to score five runs in the ninth inning to seal the win against the in-state rival.

And as for Collura, it was the 2013 season as a whole, as the South Alabama Jaguars finished the season with a 43-20 record as Sun Belt Champions.

“As you grow older and you go from level to level, the game gets faster. It’s crazy how similar it is from when you are a young kid,” Collura said. “Even the pros say all the time they are just a bunch of grown men playing a kid’s game. It doesn’t matter how old you get. It’ll always be fun.

It will always be the game you love.”

Whether you are 99 sitting in your recliner watching a Braves game, a young college kid playing your heart out in the Sun Belt or a young tee-baller who dreams of making it to the majors, baseball still holds the same magic as it did more than 100 years ago. Although we may grow and change, the game never will.

If you love the game of baseball, what better way to spend Valentine’s Day than be in attendance at Stanky Field when the Jags play Tennessee Tech at 6:30 p.m.

There’s nothing like sharing your first love with the ones you’ve learned to love along the way.

Brandon Bridge@Air_Canada_: Quarterback Just seen a man wear a drake hoodie you ain’t from canada you can’t wear our rappers stuff Derek Westbrook @thedwestbrook25: Men’s Cross Country I always say that I won’t complain too much about the cold because I’ll be regretting it when it’s hot... Forget that, bring on the summer Daniel Leitner @Daniel_Leitner: Tennis Why doesn’t checkers deliver Austin Cole @AustinCole61 Long snapper *Note to self* Set AM alarms not PM for workouts in the morning

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Opinion

14

EDITORIAL BOARD

Samantha Andrews | Editor-in-Chief Matthew Strickland | Opinion Editor Alyssa Newton | Sports Editor

MATTHEW STRICKLAND, OPINION EDITOR strickland.matthew12@gmail.com VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014

Stephanie Feather | Managing Editor Emma Mitchell | Life Editor

USA neglects to inform students of sexual scandal

Staff Editorial

By MATTHEW STRICKLAND strickland.matthew12@gmail.com

T

he University of South Alabama, just like any university, is a very efficient public relations machine. However, the recent scandal involving former USAPD Officer Kristopher Guy, who admitted to engaging in sexual acts while on the job, exposed some of the faults in that machine.

In response to The Vanguard’s

questions regarding the case, Bob Lowery, USA’s public relations director, sent the following: “On Nov. 18, 2013, Officer Kristopher Guy of the University of South Alabama Police Department was suspended without pay pending a Mobile Police Department investigation into alleged misconduct while on assignment with the Mobile Police. Kristopher Guy admitted to having sexual relations while on duty and disclosing sensitive information.

On Dec. 4, 2013, his employment was terminated by the University.”

That’s all. No news conference.

No Q-and-A. Nothing.

Mobile Police Chief James Barber held a news conference Jan. 23 to discuss the results of that same investigation which had implicated Guy. This news conference was held on the same day that disciplinary actions were taken against three Mobile police officers. To reiterate:

the exact same day that the Mobile Police Department terminated, suspended and demoted three police officers, Barber called a news conference to inform the public of these actions.

MPD punished staff who had misbehaved while on duty, and USAPD also punished staff who had misbehaved on duty.

But that’s where the similarities cease. Because these are police departments, which should always keep in mind the best interests of those whom they protect and serve, one would think that they would follow the same procedures in informing the public of the misconduct of police officers.

Yet no news conference was held

by USA. And what little information that was released was done so nearly two months after Guy was suspended.

It was only after this information was requested by The Vanguard that

PR deemed it necessary to inform us that a member of our own campus police force, trusted to protect the University’s students, staff and faculty from the illegal and dangerous behaviors of others, had been fired for transgressions committed while on duty.

Not only had the University neglected to inform us of this sexual misconduct, they have continued to withhold very pertinent information.

Yes, Guy engaged in sexual acts while on the job, but was it while he was under the supervision of MPD or of USAPD? The lieutenant overseeing the Mobile police officers was demoted.

Has the person who was in charge of Guy been punished in any way for failing to notice or inform anyone of Guy’s transgressions?

If Guy was linked closely enough to the MPD investigation to be suspended without pay in November,

why were we not informed then?

And why are we still not aware of his exact link to the actions of the three Mobile police officers?

It seems brazenly obvious that

“

Not only has the University neglected to inform us of this sexual misconduct, they have continued to withhold very pertinent information.

”

this information has been withheld to protect USA’s reputation. And though protecting the reputation of this institution is a noble cause, by withholding information, PR has succeeded only in breeding distrust between those USAPD protects and the University itself.

Why is Macklemore apologizing for Grammy Award?

W

ith the Grammys comes controversy, and this year was no exception. To the dismay of hip-hop fans everywhere, Kendrick Lamar was snubbed by the Grammys voters, losing rap album of the year, a category for which he was heavily favored. Though I agree with the notion that Lamar released a classic album that was more deserving of a gold

album.

Finally, in a world dominated by corporations, especially when it comes to music and what is heard on the radio, Macklemore and Lewis should be celebrated for the success they found independently releasing their own album. They had no marketing team like you’d find at a Warner Bros. or Atlantic Records, yet their album still achieved platinum status solely based on the merit of their music.

So why are we asking Macklemore to apologize? Did we forget that he is not on the Grammys committee? Why do we even pay attention to the Grammys, given their penchant for controversy and aptitude for being 10 years behind any current music trend? If you know the Grammys are going to do something inept, why do you watch?

That’s like touching fire and complaining that it burned you. Every year, we flame the Grammys, and every year,

we come back and read the speculative preview articles, hoping the Grammys will jump into the 21st century, and then we act surprised and outraged when it doesn’t. If hip-hop doesn’t like the Grammys, why don’t they make their own awards show?

HEARD!

wcb1321@jagmail.southalabama.edu

claimed that the Grammys favors white rappers, and proceeded to show a fancy animation of Grammys for best rap album won by white rappers.

They neglected to mention in their story, “The Grammys Really Love White Rappers,” a very important detail: until 2014, there had been only ONE white rapper ever to win the award. His name? Eminem. He’s kind of underground, you might not have heard of him.

Maybe they’d have a better argument if they went with “The Grammys Love Male Rappers” or, if they were feeling especially playful, “The Grammys Reward Chauvinistic Couplets.”

Side note: I also loved their list of “notable albums” not awarded a Grammy.

Jay Z’s “The Blueprint 3” and “I Am”

by Nas? Do you really expect me to take you seriously if you thought “The Blueprint 3” was a classic? Jay Z himself is ashamed to have released that

MAKE YOUR

By CURRY BEEKER

phonograph than “The Heist,” I think much of the media’s--social media’s included--reaction to this misfortune was misdirected and overly dramatic.

First, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis did not release a bad album by any means. Lewis showed that he is a wizard behind the boards (why is he not getting more features as a producer?), providing a lush sound canvas for Macklemore to opine about a variety of topics. It was refreshing to hear an MC who had more to talk about than how many kilos of cocaine he has sold in his life, how many luxury items he owns or how many women he has slept with (typically phrased in a more childish manner).

The media’s reaction to this was completely overdramatic. The 300th article about Macklemore and Lewis’s “Heist” winning Lamar’s deserved phonograph seemed unnecessary. In a Jan. 28 article, The Huffington Post

Strickland.MaƩhew12 @gmail.com

VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014

POINT COUNTERPOINT

15

Should USA students join a sorority or fraternity?

Editor’s Introduction: Greek Life can be a wonderful source of entertainment and friendship. However, it may also serve to distract students from their class work. What should USA students keep in mind when considering rushing a Greek society?

There are lots of reasons to go Greek

Whitney Washington

M

any people ask, “Why did you become Greek?” The answer to this question will vary depending on who is asked and to which organization they belong. Truth is, there are many reasons to go Greek.

Scholarship is definitely an important reason.

According to USA’s Office of Greek Life website, in most cases, members of Greek letter organizations have higher GPAs than non-Greek students.

Individual chapters require members to keep their grades up, and if a member is struggling academically, his or her organization helps out by offering academic resources.

Service is another of the major reasons for joining a Greek letter organization. If you like being involved in the community, Greek Life is for you. The National Pan-Hellenic Council, the Panhellenic Council and the Interfraternity Council all offer numerous community service opportunities.

For example, we recently visited the Boys and

Girls Club Friday, Jan. 31, and we were able to connect with the children. We spoke to the students about college, played games with them and assisted them with their reading and other subjects. A member of Delta Sigma Theta played Scrabble with a first grader. The little girl thought she was just playing a game, but in actuality, she was learning how to spell.

Although we are in different organizations, we share a common goal: serving the community. All of us raise money for philanthropies such as the March of Dimes, Relay for Life, Children’s Miracle Network and the American Cancer Society. We also mentor the youth through our youth auxiliary groups.

Furthermore, joining a Greek letter organization gives you the opportunity to connect with many people. Connections are important in college and in postgraduate life. If you want to meet more people and make more friends on campus, go Greek. Those who say sorority and fraternity members are merely paying for friends and connections—they don’t realize the truth and depth of friendships based in lifelong sisterhood or brotherhood. My sorority sisters are my friends for life.

These are just a few of the reasons for joining a Greek letter organization. Being Greek is way more than just throwing parties and participating in step shows. As members of USA’s Greek Life community, we are a major force in the campus community, the city of Mobile and the nation.

This is all the more reason for you to go Greek!

Greek Life definitely isn’t for everyone

Jessica Thornton

O

ne of the biggest, if not the biggest, obstacles we all face during our transition into becoming college students is finding our social circles.

It seems as if we are all on the hunt for something bigger and better than we’ve ever experienced. The first outlet of social acceptance we generally turn to is, quite easily, Greek Life.

There are plenty of ups and downs to this nationwide cluster of chapters and organizations. Just at South, our very own chapters annually raise thousands of dollars for multiple charities, set up loads of events for any interested Jaguar and spend a lot of time working together in their individual organizations to create much of our fun atmosphere. Now, while there are many pros to Greek Life, there are just as many cons.

I can easily name at least half my entire friend base who are active members of a sorority or fraternity and love every second of it. However, it is not for me (and many others) for a two main reasons.

Time commitment is the first reason. As a Prowler on the South Alabama dance team, a contributing writer for The Vanguard, a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and a full-time student, I barely have enough hours in the day as it stands to keep up with everything thrown my way. Many Greek members are busy enough with school and Greek events that the chances of them joining a non-Greek organization are pretty slim to none. They have weekly chapter meetings, constant fundraising and events to attend, a certain number of community service hours to meet and their own required study hours.

Some people become so passionate about their fraternity or sorority that they don’t realize how much higher it has been moved on their priority list. Because it is so time-consuming, it’s easy to get caught up in all of the hoopla and forget that their organization isn’t everything.

My most substantial reasoning against rushing is easily the money. It is pretty much common knowledge that there are many fees and dues in the world of college Greek letter organizations. I think it is safe to say that most of us are broke college kids already looking forward to our many years of the financial burden of paying back our student loans. The last thing we need is financial strain while we are in school, stressing out enough as it is.

With all of the time, effort and money spent, it is a difficult organization to take part in. While Greek Life may be the best fit for some students, it is not for everyone, and that’s OK! There are more than a hundred other organizations on South’s campus waiting to welcome new members.

Given that USA now has a new president, what is the first thing you would like to see Dr. Waldrop do for the University?

Daniel Moran Make this a college town. If you drove down Airport Boulevard or went downtown you wouldn't even know South Alabama was here. Increase community awareness and our presence in the city.

Suzanne Whoo Parking... Something seriously needs to be done. Getting to campus an hour before class time, just to ensure you'll be able to find a parking spot, is getting ridiculous.

Anna Henrikson Take time to introduce himself to students around campus.

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

Sierra Christine The music department would love to have their ensemble scholarships back. I understand it gets expensive, but those ensembles' money helped a lot of students, myself included.

Ravi Rajendra First Year Council would love it if Dr. Waldrop supported sustainability & aided in establishing a residence hall recycling system.

Raven Dixon Improving the food in the dining hall!

Facebook.com/ TheVanguardUSA

Ed Woodcock On Campus Stadium

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VOL. 54, NO. 5 / FEB. 10, 2014