VANGUARD THE
INSIDE
USA student’s death shocks community By KANDACE RAYBON Contributing Writer
U
► Campus: SGA to donate computer equipment for renovated student center. See Campus, page 4 COURTESY OF DANIEL MORAN
Christopher Thomas USA political science major
► JagLife: Spring shows off Alabama’s bounty.
SA Police Department officers responding to a call from the Gamma 5 dormitory found unresponsive Christopher Elan Thomas, 21, of Dothan, Ala., in his room early Saturday morning. Mobile Fire and Rescue was also at the scene. Attempts to resuscitate Thomas were unsuccessful. The cause of death is currently unknown, but foul play is not suspected. Thomas was in his junior year
Editor-in-Chief
A
► Opinion: USA self-defense class may help eliminate fear. See Opinion, page 15
Thomas played a prominent role in bringing Phi Kappa Sigma back to the University of South Alabama’s campus. He was the acting vice president of the fraternity. He served as the philanthropy chairman in 2013. While serving in this position, he helped raise funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Thomas was also on staff with Jaguar Productions. He served as an event planner for the organizaSee Thomas Page 5
USA plans to implement Native American studies program with $500,000 gift from Poarch Creeks By SAM ANDREWS
See Sports, page 9
and studying political science at the University of South Alabama with dreams of pursuing a master’s degree followed by attending law school. He was an active participant in Sandy Stimpson’s mayoral campaign and Quinn Hillyer’s congressional campaign. He input voter data for the Stimpson campaign and was a campus coordinator for Hillyer’s campaign. He also served as a delegate from the University of South Alabama at the State Convention of the Alabama College Republicans.
Donation paves way for Native American studies
See JagLife, page 7
► Sports: Sun Belt rivals South Alabama, Troy split series 1-1
VOL. 54, NO. 9
“If it matters to the USA family, it matters to us.”
MARCH 17, 2014
half-million-dollar donation from the Poarch Band of Creek Indians will fund significant growth to USA’s Native American Studies Program. USA will also dedicate $75,000 annually to the pursuit. With the donation, the University plans to offer two or more classes each year focused on Native American studies. Previous USA courses related to Native American studies, such as AN340 Native American Cultures, have been largely restricted to anthropology, according to anthropology professor Dr. Philip Carr. “In the future, there will be a greater diversity of offerings across more disciplines,” Carr said. He added that he hopes these new courses will begin as early as the spring 2015 semester. Buford L. Rolin, tribal chairman of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, attended the March 7 board of trustees meeting, when the donation was made, to express the Tribal Council’s excitement in making this “opportunity to learn about our history and culture” available. Additionally, plans have been made to renew the Native American Student Organization, sup-
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port research by providing travel scholarships and research assistantships, annually host a Native American Studies speaker, and promote awareness of Native American issues through the Archaeology Museum and the Marx Library. Currently, there are no other Native American Studies programs available in Alabama, according to Carr. “There has been a long interest in a Native American Studies Program at USA, going back at least 17 years,” Carr said. “Serious efforts began about two years ago, and because of the mutual interest, resulted in the start of the program.” Unlike many other eastern Native American tribes, which were removed from their tribal lands, the Poarch Creek Indians have lived near the Poarch, Ala., reservation for almost 200 years, according to Jeb Schrenk, associate director of public relations at USA. Schrenk added that they are the only federally recognized Native American tribe in Alabama. Their reservation is only 57 miles away from Mobile, making it an easily accessible location for educational trips. The Poarch Band of Creek Indians and USA
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See Gift Page 2
In this Issue: Sports, Page 9 Opinion, Page 14
JagLife, Page 6
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VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014
Gift Continued from Page One
SAM ANDREWS | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
From left, Board of Trustees Chairman Dr. Steven Furr, Acting President Dr. John Smith, Buford Rolin, Poarch Band of Creek Indians’ chairman and Robert McGhee, tribal government relations adviser stand Friday, March 3, with a gift of $500,000 from the Escambia County, Ala., tribe.
have had a variety of interactions throughout the years. In fact, many tribal members are current students and graduates of USA. Dr. Gregory Waselkov, a professor of anthropology, has conducted archaeological field classes at Fort Mims in Baldwin County, Ala., the site of a historic Creek Native American attack. Carr called these classes “critically important” in the history of the Creek Nation and in Waselkov’s book about his work there titled “A Conquering Spirit: Fort Mims and the Redstick War of 1813-1814.” Internships have even been made available with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians tribal archives, museum and attorney general’s office in the past, Carr said. “We hope to expand internship opportunities in the future,” Carr added, “with the possibility of providing funds for student mileage to offset the distance traveled for the internship.” Members of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians have also come to campus as guest lecturers. Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Mr. Robert Thrower presented “Creek Perspectives on the Creek War” at the Archaeology Museum March 13. The new funds committed to the Native American Studies Program will help to continue building this mutually beneficial relationship.
Meet your SGA By SHARISMA BELL Contributing Writer
P
assion flickers in Danielle Watson’s eyes when she talks about her job as the Student Government Association’s attorney general. Her warm expression framed her sincerity and ambition as she talked about her duties. One of those duties is to plan for Higher Education Day, which takes students from around the state of Alabama to Montgomery to rally for higher college and university funding. “This year, we have had the most students ever sign up from our school,” Watson stated. Watson said she has always been interested in serving others and helping the community grow. In high school, she was a peer helper, and she was a part of the Beta Club, a community service-based organization. She wanted to be a part of the student government association in high school. Because of early graduation, though, she was unable to participate. She said that when she came to college, she knew she wanted to take part in SGA. With that as a priority, she signed up and ran for senator for the College of Allied Health, which she won. The following year she ran
Danielle Watson SGA Attorney General for Attorney General, the position she holds today. “I love being a voice of the student body, and this is an exciting time for me,” Watson said. Her major is professional health science, but she sometimes wishes she had majored in political science. She loves helping the community. After graduation, she would like to go on to be a state senator or representative. “Whatever a city would need is what I would bring to it,” Watson said. Watson will be running in the upcoming elections, and with motivation and strive, she will make any position she holds great.
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VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014
“University of South Alabama’s Student Voice”
Weather for March 17 - 23
Editorial Editor in Chief Managing Editor Copy Editor Opinion Editor Sports Editor Web Editor Staff Reporter
Samantha Andrews
Stephanie Feather Meg Lundberg Matthew Strickland
Alyssa Newton Matthew Strickland
Samuel Brown Jenna Munday
Distribution
Distribution Bobby Faulk Alan Smith
Advertising Advertising Justine Burbank Graphic Designer Ryan Keller Sheldon Hall Promotions Director Jaclyn Lebatard
Management Advising J. Sellers J. Aucoin Accounting Kathy Brannan
Mission The Vanguard, the student-run newspaper of the University of South Alabama, serves its readership by reporting the news involving the campus community and surrounding areas. The Vanguard strives to be impartial in its reporting and believes firmly in its First Amendment rights.
Send letters and guest columns to: The Vanguard University of South Alabama P.O. Drawer U-1057 Mobile, Ala., 36688. Or thevanguardeditor@gmail.com Letters and guest columns must be received by 7 p.m. on the Wednesday prior to the Monday publication. Submissions should be typed and must include the writer’s name, year, school and telephone number. All submissions become the property of The Vanguard. The Vanguard reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for length and clarity. Letters will be limited to 300 words. Letters and guest columns are the opinion of the writer. The Staff Editorial represents the consensus opinion of the Editorial Board All members of the Editorial Board have the same weight. The Vanguard has a commitment to accuracy and clarity and will print any corrections or clarifications. To report a mistake, e-mail thevanguardeditor@gmail.com. The Vanguard is published Mondays during the academic year, except for exam periods and vacations, and is published twice each summer. The Vanguard is supported in part by an allocation from student activity fees and operates in the Student Media Department of the Division of Student Affairs. Issues are available at most University buildings and select off-campus locations. The first copy is free. Additional copies are $1 each. Freelance writers will receive payment at the discretion of the section editor and will be notified.
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PATRICK BIGBIE | STAFF METEOROLOGIST
Twitter: StormTeam4g9wx Facebook: Facebook.com/StormTeam4Gamma9Wx
03/13/2014 21:17 Domestic violence third degree Stokes Hall 18-year-old female was arrested for causing minor injuries to her 19-year-old boyfriend. 03/12/2014 20:18 Failure to comply with direction of faculty Shelby Hall An officer was dispatched in reference to two subjects smoking inside one of the classrooms. 03/10/2014 16:59 Unlawful breaking and entering a vehicle Humanities parking lot Victim stated that an unknown suspect broken into her vehicle through the rear driver side window and took property valuing $1070. 03/10/2014 2:36 Possession of marijuana second degree Possession of concealed weapon without a permit North Drive and University Boulevard Vehicle was pulled over for running a red light and all five of occupants were arrested for possession of marijuana, drug paraphernalia and possession of a firearm.
USAPD Police Blotter 03/09/2014 9:54 Violation of state government law Unauthorized possession/use of an illegal controlled substance The Grove A male student was transported from his residence at the Grove to Providence Hospital after apparently taking several hits of acid. 03/08/2014 0:25 Possession of marijuana second degree and receiving stolen property third degree University Boulevard and Administration Circle Individuals were arrested after being pulled over for a traffic violation. Five partial cigarettes containing material suspected of being marijuana was recovered, as well as a stolen handgun. 03/05/2014 12:54 One injured USA traffic circle and Aubrey Green Drive 43-year-old victim was injured while running. 03/03/2014 1:57 Driving under the influence: controlled substance and possession of marijuana second
degree University Boulevard and Williams and Mary Street The subject was stopped for no tail lights and subsequently arrested for driving under the influence, possession of a controlled substance, driving while suspended and no tail lights. The driver was transported to Mobile County Metro Jail. 03/01/2014 3:09 Driving under the influence and speeding Old Shell Road A non-student was stopped for speeding and subsequently arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. he was transported to Mobile County Metro Jail 02/28/2014 15:16 Possession of marijuana first degree, drug paraphernalia first offense Stanky Field parking lot A traffic stop was conducted and a large amount of illegal narcotics, drug paraphernalia and a handgun were found in the car. The driver of the vehicle was arrested and the vehicle was impounded.
02/20/2014 8:45 Theft of property second degree USA bookstore Subject entered bookstore and took items valuing $650 without paying. 02/18/2014 3:22 Possession of marijuana second degree and criminal trespass third degree Epsilon 1 Student was arrested for criminal trespass, resisting arrest, marijuana second degree and aggravated assault of a police officer. 02/18/2014 2:34 Possession of marijuana second degree Stadium Drive Individual was pulled over on a traffic stop and was arrested for possession of marijuana second degree. 02/17/2014 14:42 Theft of property second degree Jag Tran stop Victim reported that a golf cart belonging to Jag Tran was stolen. 02/17/2014 13:59 Theft from public building USA Bookstore Individual was arrested for stealing textbooks valuing more than $1,200.
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VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014
SGA to donate computer equipment Former USA for renovated student center in April student found
Micah Messer SGA School of Computing Senator By RYAN WALLACE Contributing Writer
T
he USA Student Center will reopen April 1, with a fully furnished computer lab courtesy of the Student Government Association. Throughout the last several weeks, Micah Messer and Jacob Taylor, student senators representing the USA School of Computing, have been busy working to secure the necessary funding to install the new computers. The total planned amount to fund
the project is about $12,000. According to Taylor, it was simply a case of doing what is best for the school. “This is a senate project that truly helps all USA students,” Taylor said. “This computer lab will benefit USA students for years to come!” With the knowledge that financial resources were available to help with special projects, Messer and Taylor went to Associate Dean of Students and Student Center Director Dr. Krista Harrell and Assistant Director of the Student Center Rachael Bolden. The directors told them that there was a need for new computing equipment in the Student Center when it reopens. With their shared background as School of Computing students, the idea to use the SGA funds to provide the computers impressed the two senators as the most important and pressing need in the new building. The donations will most likely come in the form of 10 computers running Windows operating systems and five running the iOS operating system for the University’s Apple Macintosh users. While those numbers are not yet set in stone, Messer said there is no doubt that the computers will be there for the students to use when the Student Center reopens. With the official vote on the donation set for the March 16 SGA meeting,
he puts the odds at “100 percent that the amount will pass the Senate.” “Besides my school’s building, I’m in the Student Center more than anywhere else,” junior information systems major Ashley Cote said, “and I think that’s probably the case for a lot of the students around campus. Having some computers centrally located at the Student Center instead of just the ones scattered at the individual colleges would be really nice.” Cote also expressed hope that the Student Center’s computer lab would expand its services from mere computer access going forward. “I know that what would really be huge for me as a student in the future would be adding printers or having some kind of printing service in the Student Center. It would just be nice to have another option for printing if you’re already at the Student Center and don’t have your laptop on you already. At most schools, you have to be a student there to print anything, but the new lab could be right there in the middle of campus for everyone to use. “I mean, why wouldn’t you give it a visit?” Cote said. “With all of the new things, including the computers, being put in, I think it’s going to become a popular place to hang out and get some work done.”
PATRICK BIGBIE | STAFF METEOROLOGIST
Jacob Taylor, SGA school of computing senator, has been busy coordinating the donation of computers to the newly renovated student center.
dead in La.
Hayley Howard Former USA student By ALICIA CARRUBBA Contributing Writer
F
ormer USA student Hayley Howard of Slidell, La., died March 1 after her car became submerged in the Irish Bayou in Eastern New Orleans. She attended South last year before transferring to University of New Orleans for her sophomore year where she made Dean’s List. Just this last February, she was accepted into Xavier’s School of Pharmacy. Hayley Howard and I became good friends this past year bonding over the struggles of calculus and chemistry. Her exuberant personality and unique way of thinking drew people to her like a magnet. Her friend Danny put it best at her funeral last week when he said, “I never introduced her to someone that she didn’t mean the world to.” Many others spoke of her, mentioning stories ranging from a preteen slumber party to an impromptu decision to follow a flyer that lead to a gathering about the universe downtown. In that room filled with friends and family, the love was palpable. You could see in every person’s eyes that he or she was a better person for knowing Hayley. In the wake of this tragedy of a beautiful life cut short, I found comfort in the way she spent her time. Life isn’t perfect, and Hayley knew that. She experienced her fair share of the worst, but she never let it keep her down. And when life was good, it was truly radiant. Hayley was a passionate person who threw her whole self into everything she did. She had a great love for dance, running and education. In lieu of flowers, Hayley’s family is raising money for the Hayley Howard Xavier Scholarship Fund. Another way to show support is through “Hayley’s Run,” which will be a 3-mile race through the same neighborhoods Hayley used to train for cross country at Northshore High School. The race is April 6. To participate or donate, the race can be found on Facebook through the page Help Find Hayley Howard.
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VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014
International students to proudly Thomas display culture at spring festival Continued from Page One
By MARY BETH LURSEN
Contributing Writer
D
o you want to get a taste of other cultures without the hassle of travel? Do you wish you could do it without emptying your bank account as well? Then the Council of International Student Organizations and the Office of International Student Services and Admission have a treat for you in the form of the spring international festival. The event will be held Thursday, March 20 in front of the Mitchell Center. “The main purpose of this event is to allow the international students to show their pride of where they come from and to share that with others,” Brenda Hinson, the director of International Student Services and Admissions, said. “I refer to it as
being able to travel around the world without having to leave Mobile.” And travel you can. The event will feature booths from seven different cultures—Indian, Vietnamese, Emirati (United Arab Emirates), Nepalese, Saudi Arabian, Latin American and Pakistani. Each booth will be showcasing different aspects of their culture, opening all students to new and exciting ideas and beliefs. “Students will be able to learn about the various countries and cultures at the exhibits,” Hinson said. “Some (exhibits) may write the student’s name in their (the international students’ native) language or do henna or anything else that might represent their country.” With a program that has approximately 800 students, the international culture makes up a
large part of how diverse USA is. Seeing these different cultures mix together is sure to be a treat for all who attend. “In today’s ever changing world, I believe that it is more important than ever that we learn as much about the people from other parts of the world as possible,” Hinson said. ”I always say you will learn that they are really not so different from us as Americans.” All of the events are free and open to everyone. The fair lasts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. If rain becomes an issue, the event will move inside the Mitchell Center. Following the fair, the groups will hold an international talent and fashion show at 7 p.m. in the Mitchell Center. For more information, contact Hinson at 251-460-6050 or bhinson@southalabama.edu.
tion beginning in February 2012. In February 2013, he began working for Jag Productions as the financial director. He was awarded the Committee Member of the Year award in 2012 and the Board Member of the Year award in 2013. He also served as the treasurer of the Debate Society at the University and the vice president of the College Republicans. When he was not volunteering his time, Thomas enjoyed reading mystery novels and playing Ooze Ball in the spring. He would constantly joke with his friends about his hometown being the “peanut capital of the world” with infamous Peanut Festival and his knowledge of the many ways of preparing peanuts. “Christopher Thomas is very well known for his laughter, his kindness and his smile,” Somer Holland, of Dothan, Ala., said. “I’ve been with Christopher in school since elementary school and
though we weren’t best friends, I still knew I could count on him.” Holland was Thomas’ former classmate at Northview High School in Dothan. Many friends and loved ones also took to Facebook to express their grief, thoughts and sympathies. Eric Karlstad, Thomas’ fraternity brother, posted, “Still can’t believe I got the news yesterday that one of my brothers and good friends has passed away. Christopher Thomas, you will be missed by all. Prayers for his family, friends and the brothers of Phi Kappa Sigma would be greatly appreciated.” Carly Pugh, a fellow College Republican and a graduate student at South Alabama, said, “He loved politics and he loved people more; he was a great friend and an even better listener, and the University of South Alabama has been made better through his efforts, and his involvement.” Pugh also volunteered with Thomas in Stimpson’s mayoral campaign. Details about the memorial service are currently unknown.
jagLIFE
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VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014
Events This week
Downtown music fest to kickoff in April By MITCHELL KAHALLEY
Monday > March 17 •
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Tuesday > March 18 •
Using Social Media in Your Job Search- Meisler Hall 2100
•
Robert Holm Faculty Piano Recital - Laidlaw Center, 7:30 p.m., $5 for students.
•
Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation Spaghetti Dinner benefitAlpha Gamma Delta House, 5 p.m., tickets $5.
Wednesday > March 19 •
Cooperative Education and Internship Program Orientation - Meisler Hall 2100, 2 p.m.
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Celeste Boone Senior Flute Recital - Laidlaw Center, 7:30 p.m., $5 for students.
•
“What the Crimean Referendum means for United States Foreign Policy” discussion 170 HUMB, 6:30 p.m.
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“Islam and Politics In Turkey” discussion - USA Library, 3 p.m.
Thursday > March 20 •
Three 6 Mafia, age 18+, Alabama Music Box, 7 p.m., $20 in advance, $25 at the door.
•
Zach Hunter Human Rights Activist - Laidlaw Center, 7 p.m.
Friday > March 21 •
Tim Easton, Satori, 7:30 p.m., free to students.
•
Emily Ruth Allen Senior Clarinet Recital - Laidlaw Center, 7 p.m., $5 for students.
Want your event featured? E-mail the name, date, time, price, place and a brief tagline (under 10 words) to thevanguardeditor@gmail.com
be a part of the larger festivals on the coast. “My partners and I have a great love and genuinely believe we have an insane amount he Gulf Coast is home to a wealth of talent in the South and that they deserved of music festivals. Bayfest has been to be showcased,” Hayes said. “Our goals a Mobile, Ala., staple for nearly 20 years, were and still are to help build up their proand Gulf Shores Hangout Music Festival files and fan bases along the Gulf Coast as has quickly become one of the preeminent well as help them network with other bands music festivals in the around the South.” country. SouthSounds seems to be We want to foster that achieving However, Mobile is its goal. Hayes said special connection also home to another that as a result of the festimusic festival that you val, bands have been able to between a fan and might have not heard make connections with other the artists. of. The SouthSounds artists, allowing them to creMusic Festival will take ate a circuit of cities to tour -Co-creator Emily Hayes place throughout local throughout the Southeast. music venues in downOther artists have sold out town Mobile April 11 shows in Mobile, have been to 13. Venues participating are the Alabama able to play larger festivals such as the HangMusic Box, The Blind Mule, Callaghan’s out, and have even signed to storied record Irish Social Club, OK Bicycle Shop, Alche- labels such as Sub Pop. As opposed to the other music festivals my Tavern, Haberdasher and Malaga Inn. Tickets can be purchased at southsounds- on the coast, SouthSounds is held on a much fest.com. smaller scale. Hayes said she believes this SouthSounds is the first music festival in type of festival allows patrons to have more the country to feature contemporary artists of a personal connection with the artists. from the South exclusively, according to the “The advantage to a smaller festival is SouthSounds website. that you have more of a chance to get to The festival was started in 2012 as a re- know these folks and that is one of our big sponse to the major music festivals springing goals,” Hayes said. “We want to foster that up along the Gulf Coast. Emily Hayes, the special connection between a fan and the festival’s co-creator and co-director, said that artists. How many people get the opportuit was harder for local and regional artists to nity to join members of their favorite bands Contributing Writer
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“
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in a second line through downtown Mobile? It is most definitely a one-of-a-kind festival.” As it has for the entirety of its existence, the festival will be held the same weekend as the Arts Alive! Festival and the Temporal City Festival. Arts Alive! is Mobile’s biggest visual arts festival, and the Temporal City Festival makes use of the empty and abandoned buildings downtown by filling them with art installations. Having all three festivals on the same weekend brings exposure to the events and allows them to grow together. All three events are important for the growth and development of downtown Mobile. According to ticket sales and estimates of festival-goers who saw bands at the free public stage at Cathedral Square, more than 1,000 people attended the festival last year. “I believe that festivals such as SouthSounds, Arts Alive! and the Temporal City Festival help enhance the overall view of downtown Mobile,” Hayes said. “The way SouthSounds is structured, people who may not have known that Alchemy has live music or that The Blind Mule is more than just a great place to grab a bite get a chance to see it in a different light. Folks from out of town that think we only have a handful of music venues get a chance to see that downtown Mobile has lovely parks, amazing restaurants, great bars and, most importantly, fantastic live music venues of all shapes and sizes. We hope to be a bright spot for the future of downtown Mobile.”
Soul Kitchen to host rock band Seether By CATHRINE BUTTREY
Contributing Writer
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hursday, April 24 at 8 p.m. in Mobile, Ala., Soul Kitchen will host Seether with special guest Skindred. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., and tickets are on sale now for $30. This South African hard rock trio, previously known as Saron Gas, changed their band name to Seether and traveled to the United States in 2002 for the new opportunities that were available to them. This pivotal decision was by no means easy, lead singer Shaun Morgan said, but he continued, “I feel that the decision we made, as tough as it was, was ultimately the correct one.” Seether, consisting of frontman Morgan, bassist Dale Stewart and drummer John Humphrey, has released more than five successful albums. According to Seether’s website, this still up-and-coming, alternative metal band has made many ac-
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VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014
Alabama’s Outdoors spring shows off alabama’s bounty Talking Turkey By PATRICK HAUTAU Contributing Writer
W
ith spring comes the arrival of turkey season, hunting season’s last stop before summer. It calls to mind an old saying: “The dogwood trees are blooming, so the turkeys must be looming,” a phrase used for years by turkey hunters. If you are not fond of cold weather and boring hunts, you may want to give turkey hunting a try. Alabama offers some of the best turkey hunting in the United States. Alabama has more wild turkeys per acre than any other state according to outdooralabama.com. In the early 1900s, there were as few as 10,000 wild turkeys in Alabama. But after restoration, protection and management programs, Alabama was set apart as the keystone state in the repopulation of the wild turkey, according to outdooralabama.com. Turkeys are one of the most exciting animals to pursue. Wild turkeys are the only animal in Alabama that vocally answer you when you call. Early in the morning, you can hear male turkeys (or “toms”) gobbling at hoot owls. You can also hear female turkeys (or “hens”) calling to each other as they try to form a flock. The hunter’s job is to make a call that sounds like a hen wanting to breed, drawing the tom in range. This is easier said than done. Hunts get frustrating when the tom is with a flock of hens and won’t leave them for your calls. This is where decoys come into play. You can use decoys, imitation turkeys (tom or hen) to try to use a turkey’s sight. Keep in mind that a turkey’s sight is its best defense, which makes the bird so elusive. There is no greater test of calling, woodsmanship skills and knowledge of the land you are hunting than to try to harvest one of these wise, beautiful birds. There is no way to describe the thrill when you call and hear that famous gobble getting closer and closer. It’s the most exciting thing to have a conversation with a wild animal. The water is still cold at the beach, so go get in the woods and talk turkey.
COURTESY OF PATRICK HAUTAU
Patrick Hautau sits proudly behind his prize from last season.
Spring into Spawning Bass By PATRICK HAUTAU Contributing Writer
S
pring is almost here, which means two things: both temperatures and bass fishing are heating up. Spring offers some of the best bass fishing of the year. In early spring, the bass start looking for warmer, shallow water to make a bed to lay their eggs, according to BassResource.com. Places to look for spawning bass include shallow creeks or edges of lakes with structures such as logs, stumps, grass flats and so on. The pre-spawn stage is when the bass have made a bed and are waiting for the female to lay her eggs. You will usually see a small male on the bed during this time, according to BassResource.com, which means the female is feeding near the bed. This is when the female bass are full of eggs and will be heaviest. If you want to catch that monster bass, this will be the time. When the water temperatures warm up a little more, the bass get in the spawning stage. You will often see a large female and a small male on a bed together. This is a good indication that she will be laying her eggs soon. This is your last chance to catch that big bass of your dreams. Once she lays her eggs, she will be gone, and once the female leaves, the smaller male will stick around and patrol the eggs. There is no wrong choice of bait for spawning bass. However, when you see them on a bed, try casting lizard or crawfish lures in the bed from where the bass can’t see you for best results, according to Bassmaster.com. There is no doubt that spring bass fishing can offer some great opportunities for catching big bass. Remember when you catch a large female spawning, according to Bassmaster.com, she can have between 2,000 and 40,000 eggs. Make sure the fish is well-revived when you release it, and make sure that you took a good picture.
COURTESY OF PATRICK HAUTAU
Brock Jones, junior of civil engineering, holds his 9-pound bass caught in Grand Bay, Ala.
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VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014
What are you most proud of? Seether Continued from Page 6
complishments, including hitting No. 20 on the Billboard Hot Top 100 with the 2004 single “Broken” and No. 1 on Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks’ charts with hits “Remedy,” “Fake It,” and “Country Song.” Other awards the band has received in their time include winning No. 1 Active and Heritage Rock artists on the Billboard Charts in 2011. Around this time, Seether started gaining mainstream popularity. “I think our career this far has exceeded
David Conner Denton Sophmore of Mechanical Engineering “I guess being a part of the Honors Program.”
Daeshan Smith Senior of Communication “The fact that I could finish my degree in four years and still be a part of the marching band.”
Q E
Dezarae Turner Freshman of Photography “I’m most proud of my decision to switch majors. It was a big decision for me.”
uestion
Luis Navarro Senior of General Management “What I have achieved so far. I realize where I’ve come from and how much I have achieved due to my family.”
our expectations in every way,” Morgan said in a recent interview. “We’ve played all around the world and shared stages with bands that we admire and respect. That’s far more than we ever thought possible. It’s been a constant surprise to have each album be so well-received and to see the success of our singles on the radio.” Morgan believes he was speaking for all of Seether when he said, “It’s been very gratifying and extremely humbling to be able to reach out and touch so many lives.” Seether having been successful for more than a decade in America, Morgan said that he feels every album thus far has
of the
dition
led to new challenges, pushing the band to be more creative and to write thought-provoking songs that will hopefully, according to Morgan, “stand the test of time, instead of trying to fit into a temporary fad or changing our style to suit a certain radio climate.” Sophomore Crissy Hamilton said, “I saw them for the first time a few months ago, and they rocked Abilene, Texas!” Other students claim that Seether is almost like a second Nirvana and similar to bands like Evanescence in their style. Looking forward, Seether plans to remain as passionate and innovative as it has
LeeAnn Bone Junior of Education “The fact that I went college even though I have faced many, many, many adversities. My fiancé Andy pushed me, He gave me the motivation.”
been for the past 13 years. Stewart said Seether plans “to go full steam on the new album” to be released this year. Although Morgan promises this sixth album will not be rushed by any means because quality is and always will be their main priority. Tickets for this concert can be bought in advance on Soul Kitchen’s website soulkitchenmobile.com for $30, or you can buy tickets at the door for $35 until they sell out. Students under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. You absolutely cannot miss out on this incredible opportunity to see such a successful group!
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SPORTS
ALYSSA NEWTON SPORTS EDITOR akn1104@jagail.southalabama.edu
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VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014
Sun Belt rivals South Alabama, Troy split series 1-1 Heavy rain cancels chance of a finale game series decision, rivals end the weekend with a split
COURTESY OF USAJAGUARS
Gleason’s walk-off RBI double in the bottom of the 10th inning led the South Alabama Jags to a 2-1 win, tying the series at one game apiece By ALYSSA NEWTON Sports Editor
T
he tied Sun Belt Champions would tie once more at Stanky Field this past weekend as rain turned out to be their biggest opponent, suspending game three from Saturday’s doubleheader only to be canceled Sunday. On Friday, the Troy Trojans (108, 1-1 SBC) took game one behind right-hander Tanner Hicks (2-2) who threw a complete-game shutout in their 5-0 victory over the Jags. This shutout would be Troy’s first complete-game since 2011 and 2008 since it was against a SBC opponent.
Hicks allowed six hits and struck out five with one walk, giving him his second win of the season. South Alabama’s Kevin Hill took the loss in 6 1/3 innings, allowing three earned runs on six hits with three strikeouts and four walks. Reliefs Cameron Carleton and Dillion Burkuhl combined for 2 2/3 scoreless innings. South Alabama (10-8, 1-1 SBC) threatened to score with runners at the corners with one out in the bottom of the first when Bud Collura reached on a fielder’s choice and was advanced to third on a single by Hayden Jones. But Hicks would end the scoring hopes with a popup and strikeout to leave the Jags on the
bags. The Trojans started off their lead with boom, or two. The Troy Trojans took a 2-0 lead in the top of the second inning as David Hall hit a solo home run. Nick Masonia stepped up the plate and followed suit, sending one over the fence to give Troy their first consecutive home runs since May 12, 2012 in the fourth inning against Arkansas State. Troy put two runners in scoring position with no outs in the top of the fourth on a leadoff walk by Kyle Brown and bunt single from Matt Howard, in which Hill fielded and overthrew to first base to allow both
runners to advance. But three consecutive outs, two groundouts and a strikeout would keep the Jags’ deficit at four runs thru 3 1/2 innings. Troy scored the game’s final run in the top of the seventh when Tyler Vaughn scored on an RBI single from Garrett Pitts. Trevin Hall reached on a hit by pitch before a wild pitch from Carleton allowed Pitts to move to third. Carleton then struck out Brown before inducing an inning-ending flyout to center field off the bat of Howard. Troy’s David Hall went 2-for-3 with a home run, one RBI and a run scored. Masonia also with a home run, two RBIs and a run Friday. Jaguar Collura led the Jags going 2-for4. On Saturday, what was expected to be a doubleheader turned into a long, rainy day for the Jags, but along with the rain would come a win. Cole Gleason delivered a walkoff RBI double in the bottom of the 10th to lead the Jaguars to a 2-1 win over rival Troy, giving the SBC teams a win apiece. With two outs in the bottom of the 10th, Bud Collura reached on a single and advanced to second from a wild pitch by Troy’s Jeremy McGowan before Gleason delivered the game-winning double to scored Collura from second. South Alabama right-hander Brandon Hallford (2-0) earned the win with 2 1/3 scoreless relief innings, not allowing a hit and striking out one Trojan batter to extend his scoreless-innings streak to 15 2/3 innings. McGowan (1-2) took the loss in 1 2/3 relief innings, allowing one run on two hits with three walks and a strikeout. Starting pitcher Locke St. John threw 7 2/3 innings allowing one run on seven hits with five strikeouts and no walks. Troy’s Shane McCain allowed one run on five hits in eight innings pitched, and struck out two batters against a pair of walks. The Trojans took a 1-0 lead in the top of the second when David Hall reached on a leadoff single through the left side of the infield, advanced to second on a groundout to shortstop by Matthew Howard
and scored on a two-out RBI single to left field from Nick Masonia. South quickly answered in the bottom of the second when Collura reached on a leadoff single and later scored on a double by Gleason to tie the game 1-1 and break McCain’s streak of 15 scoreless-innings streak. Hayden Jones reached on a double in the bottom of the sixth with two outs. This broke a McCain’s 12 consecutive batters retired and was the first hit the Trojan starter allowed since the second inning. Collura followed with a two-out walk, but McCain induced an inning-ending fielder’s choice off the bat of Gleason to preserve the 1-1 tie. Hallford entered in relief of St. John following the second out of the frame, and retired the one batter he faced on one pitch to end the inning. Cameron Cummings pinch-hit in the bottom of the ninth and reached on a one-out walk issued by McGowan, and advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt by Adam Ballew. Matt Wojciechowski was intentionally walked ahead of Drew LaBounty, who drew a two-out walk to load the bases. But McGowan escaped the jam with an inning-ending groundout to second to send the game into extra innings. Gleason went 2-for-5 with two doubles and two RBIs to lead the Jaguars at the plate, and Collura finished 2-for-4 with two runs scored. David Hall went 2-for-4 with a run scored to lead the Trojans at the plate. The third game began after a two-hour rain delay with the first pitch at 4:57 p.m. The series finale was suspended in the bottom of the fourth inning with Troy leading 3-1 at 6:04 p.m., and was scheduled to resume at 1 p.m. Sunday at Stanky Field. But with major thunderstorms and heavy rain that passed through the Mobile area early Sunday morning, the game was canceled leaving the games split at 1-1. South Alabama will go on the road Wednesday, March 19, traveling to Baton Rouge, La., for a contest against Louisiana State at 6:30 p.m.
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VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014
Women’s golf takes third USA women place in the Lady Eagle Invitational By SAVON MORRIS
Contributing Writer
The South Alabama women’s golf team took third in the 20th annual Lady Eagle Invitational held March 10-11 in Hattiesburg, Miss., at Hattiesburg Country Club. The women’s golf team has improved in every matchup they have participated in, totaling seven tournaments so far this year. Elisa Axelsen and Anna Lesher each earned a top-five finish to help lead the University of South Alabama to third place. Axelsen (77-72) fired an even-par 72 in Tuesday’s final round to earn a career-best, third-place finish after a tworound, 5-over par total of 149. Lesher (71-79) also earned a career-best finish with a two-round, 6-over par total of 150 to finish in fourth place. “Anytime we can get an even par or better, it’s a good round,” head coach TJ Jackson said of Axelsen. “With three tournaments as a Jaguar, she has played very well. (Lesher’s) round yesterday really set her up to have a good finish in the tournament. She was really sharp with her
short game all 36 holes. She had some really good up-and-downs with solid putts on both days.” The Southern Miss team shot an opening round 301 to sit in the lead heading into the final round of the Invitational. Senior Brandi Rodriguez fired a two-under 70 to sit in the lead. The 70 is Rodriguez’s fifth round of par or better this year and the 13th of her career. South Alabama (307-307) earned its second consecutive top-three finishes with a two-round team total of 614. The Jaguars finished six shots back of tournament champion Southern Mississippi (301-307), which finished with a 608 team total. Rodriguez (70-74) won medalist honors with a two-round, even-par total of 144. USA tied with UAB for the second-most birdies (14) in the field, trailing USM who turned in 16 in two rounds. The Jaguars led the field in par-three (3.19) and par-five scoring (5.08). South Alabama will return to action March 25-26, when the team travels to Hot Springs Village, Ark., to compete in the UALR Women’s Golf Classic at Diamante Country Club.
ST. PATRICK’S DAY EDITION No you’re not still seeing double from this weekend, but we have doubled the Jag Tweets! Double the tweets, double the fun. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Follow us for news, updates and play-by-play tweets: @USAVGSports Nick Bear @nick_bear71 Long snapper working on st. patty’s day and it’s raining. someone bring me green beer Austin Cole @AustinCole61 Long snapper A guns like a woman it’s all bout how you hold her
Chloe Rathburn @chloerathburn First baseman Giving a speech in 10 minutes and I wrote it 5 minutes ago... Morgan Motes @missmorgan492 Midfielder
Zach Blahnik @ZBlahn_44 Thrower
I know money can’t buy love... but a Despicable Me fluffy unicorn or a Lady and the Tramp pillow pet might be the way to me heart.
Man if I had a smartphone in high school my Twitter game would have been so dirts mcgurrtttsss
Michael Adcock @michaeladcock22 Inside linebacker
Sharon Sanders @SomeSerious: Guard
Only at South Alabama is the a nae nae competition outside of the student center #Gojags
Don’t take many anatomy study breaks but when I do I makes sure I enjoy life until I go back to misery! #IneverGoback lol
Blair Johnson @BlairBear_2 Infielder
Derek Westbrook @thedwestbrook25: Men’s Cross Country
True dedication to school is when you have to turn down a beach trip with your teammates to meet with your group to write a paper.. #torture
Being interrupted is without a doubt my biggest pet peeve
Bud Collura @BudCollura Third baseman
Uncle Drew @Drewski72_ Offensive Lineman
Everyone feel free to fill jag alley/hook alley. Bring your beer and facts on the right fielder! Most importantly have fun. #SeeYouThere
You not from Russia, so why you rushing? Terrell Brigham @T_BRIGGS18 Defensive backfield It was a great start of the last first spring practice #TimeFly
Daniel Leitner @Daniel_Leitner_ Tennis Where do you get the confidence to wear a fishing shirt, visor, jeans and flip flops in public?
Follow us on Twitter @USAVGSports Want to respond to one of our stories? Visit thevanguardonline/sportsfeedback and send us a comment!
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VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014
Pitcher Hannah Campbell throws perfect game at home Campbell has her second perfect game, No. 14 South Alabama softball adds a win at Jaguar Field
COURTESY OF USAJAGUARS
Campbell is the only player to throw a perfect game in USA history. SAMUEL BROWN Staff Reporter
S
outh Alabama’s softball team hosted the Nicholls State Colonels Wednesday, March 12 for their first home game in more than a month. Sophomore Hannah Campbell threw a perfect seven innings, tossing her second career perfect
game as the Jaguars defeated the Colonels 2-0. Out of the 21 Colonels she faced, Campbell struck out 12. Campbell’s two perfect games are the only two in South Alabama softball history. This win marks the 20th of the season for the Jaguars. Campbell improves her season record to 6-2 while lowering her ERA to 0.83.
The perfect game also marks her second shutout of the season, and the programleading 24th of her career. This was also Campbell’s fifth career no-hitter. “Yesterday, in the bullpen, we were working on spinning the ball more, which I had gotten away from lately,” Campbell said. “The defense was stellar today, so I couldn’t have done it without them. I don’t think (the wind) had any effect on the ball today.” “I think it was cool because yesterday we got to work out some things mechanically,” head coach Becky Clark said. “That’s one of the reasons we gave her the start, so we could let her try to work those things out in a game. I thought that was the best she did all year. I felt the velocity was up and she was doing everything right.” The lone score in the game came on a Chloe Rathburn two-run home run in the bottom of the fourth inning, scoring Amanda Minahan who walked earlier in the inning. With the home run, Rathburn ties catcher Alex Breeden with the team lead of 4. Rathburn hit this home run with a 22 mph wind blowing in her face. “I think the wind actually played in my favor,” Rathburn said. “It actually stopped
when I got that pitch. It was a perfect pitch, just perfect. I think we are finally coming together as a team, working together and seeing what it feels like to have everything coming together. The pitchers are doing a phenomenal job, our batters are making adjustments and our infielders are doing amazing.” Colonel Jackie Johnson took the loss, allowing both runs, walking three and striking out five in six innings. With the win, the Jaguars improve their winning streak to four games and their overall record to 20 and 3. Nicholls State falls to 8 and 19 on the year. South Alabama next traveled to Stillwater, Okla., for the Cowgirl Classic. The Jaguars faced New Mexico and Oklahoma State Saturday, March 15. These games are not in print due to deadline conflicts. “We know we’re going to have great competition this weekend,” Clark said. “That is the reason we are going out there, that is the reason for the trip. There are good teams we are going to be playing. We’re looking forward to having three games this weekend instead of five; it’s not quite as tough. We’re looking forward to great competition, and we’re going to try to keep it rolling.”
Sailing offers unique club opportunity to USA students South Alabama’s sailing club competes in collegiate competitions, accepts all wanting to learn sailing trade By JENNA MUNDAY Staff Reporter
It is well known that the University of South Alabama has various clubs and organizations that appeal to the enthusiasts of all types of hobbies and sports. From quidditch to rock climbing, the possibilities are endless. For those with a passion for sailing, there is a club at South that meets your requests. The University of South Alabama sailing club has been active for almost 15 years, and as the University is close to the Gulf and Mobile Bay, sailors are in a prime location for practices and competitions. The team sails out of Buccaneer Yacht Club, which is Mobile Bay’s only member-run yacht club. It is located off Dauphin Island Parkway, about 5 miles south of Interstate 10. The club has a fleet of eight collegiate racing boats, known as “flying juniors,” that are used for local competitions. These boats are about 13 feet long and weigh a little more than 200 pounds. These types of boats are also used for nationwide college and high school sailing programs. For collegiate sailing, the Inter-Collegiate Sailing Association is the national governing body. While USA is part of the Southeastern
Intercollegiate Sailing Association, it is still a part of the ICSA. Schools like Princeton, MIT, Brown and many others throughout the country are also members of the ICSA and are possible competition for USA’s sailing team. The club ranges from having 15 to 20 active members who compete locally and throughout the Southeast on a regular basis. In competitions, the team typically places in the middle of the fleet or better. Ben Posey, the president of the University of South Alabama sailing club, is a highly experienced sailor. He started around 25 years ago and was intrigued by the fact that sailing can be both competitive and relaxing at the same time. “I love the fact that I can go out for a peaceful sail on the water one day and the next day use the same equipment to test myself both physically and mentally, all with minimum dayto-day financial input,” Posey said. The University of South Alabama sailing club provides an opportunity for students to network with other schools from across the nation and gain experience through a passion for sailing. The club competes frequently, even as this semester’s out of town events come to
COURTESY OF USA SAILING CLUB
Sailing accepts all students, no matter experience level. an end. “We have sent students to compete in national events, and we have obtained rankings as high as 12th in the nation against institutions such as Yale, Berkeley and Brown,” Posey said. “Some of the events we can qualify for are televised nationally on ESPN.” The USA sailing club takes pride in
accepting all who want to join, no matter what skill or experience level. Several members of the club are also certified instructors and hold at least one “Sailing 101” class each semester for those who wish to gain more experience. Anyone interested in learning more or becoming a member may send an email to usasailingclub@gmail.com.
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VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014
Spring practice observations: first week inside look SAMUEL BROWN Staff Reporter
QUICK NOTES: Former Quarterback Ross Metheny is still with the team working with the Quarterbacks during practice. Marvin Shinn and Jereme Jones did not practice Friday as they are recovering from minor injuries suffered late in Wednesday’s practice. Chris May was not at practice Monday or Friday. Florida State Seminole OL Wilson Bell was at practice Wednesday. He graduated from Blount High School in Mobile, Ala. Kaleb Blanchard has been suspended due to violation of team rules. QB: It’s been up and down for the QBs. Trey Fetner looked like the better QB Wednesday, but then Brandon Bridge looked like the better QB Friday. Bridge has really improved on his decision making and downfield accuracy. Watch out RS Fr. Grant Powell. Powell has been very impressive this week and could be a darkhorse to win the job.
ALYSSA NEWTON | SPORTS EDITOR
Veteran quarterbacks Brandon Bridge (left) and Trey Fetner (right) go through drills during week one of spring practice. HB: Jay Jones has been getting the most reps. Walk-on Berren Tyson is getting a lot of reps as well. He is looking very good. Tyson has shown great cutting ability and vision. Kendall Houston has been getting reps with the second team. WR: Nathan Sassaman and Jake Howton have got some work in with the 1’s and made some nice grabs. TJ Glover and Josh Magee have both been tremendous. Glover was really showing off his hands. And as always, Shavarez Smith was great. He was dominating the corners when in press coverage. Smith, Magee and Shinn
have been getting the most reps. TE: Wes Saxton, Braedon Bowman and Rush Hendricks have all split time with the 1’s. Saxton made an acrobatic catch Friday, double covered by Terrance Slaughter and Antonio Carter. Bowman has such quick feet for a tight end. He is not afraid to be physical either. Hendricks was solid in blocking situations and had a couple nice snags. There is nothing bad to say about the trio this week. OL: The 1’s this week have primarily been (from LT to RT) Harrison Louden, Drew Dearman, Joseph Scelfo, Melvin Meggs and
Clay Machen. Machen has getting beat all week. He really needs to work on his footwork. Like noted above, May was mysteriously not at practice again Friday (he was not at practice Monday either), so Machen was his replacement. DL-LB: On the line, Theo Rich, Jerome McClain, Jesse Kelley and Ridge James have been with the 1’s. Ridge has given Machen problems all week. Jimmie Gipson has come in with the 2’s and looked great. He is the quickest D-lineman off the snap by far. He was beating Shane Doty (who was playing RT with the 2’s) just about on every play. Davin
Hawkins looks like he is emerging into a team leader. He has been playing lights out. He had acrobatic interceptions Wednesday and Friday. DeMarion Harper was really impressive with getting pressure Friday. There was a stretch where he batted down three balls in about five plays. DBs: Roman Buchannan had a very good week. He has had success blitzing off the edge. Slaughter was not having a good week. It seemed like the QBs were picking on him all week. Devon Earl was another standout this first week. He was great in coverage and displayed tremendous ball skills.
Joey Jones on week 1: On meeting goals at practice this week: “It was a good week, especially from an intensity standpoint. These guys have a good spirit about them ... I think we got better, and it’s now a challenge for them individually to get better as a team.”
ALYSSA NEWTON | SPORTS EDITOR
Former USA quarterback Ross Metheny (top left) worked with quarterbacks throughout the week. Jay Jones (bottom left) runs the ball during drills. Defensive Coordinator Travis Pearson talks to the defense during Saturday’s spring practice. (bottom right)
On position and player standouts: “On the defensive side of the ball, Jimmy Gibson (DE) looks really good. Our two corners, I thought Q (Qudarius) Ford and Montell Garner especially. Both of them are playing really well, I thought ... Offensively, we’ve had a couple good offensive linemen who are playing really well. Brandon (Bridge) is looking a little better at quarterback. We gotta keep getting better and better. There’s a lot of improvement out there.”
On quarterbacks: “To be a quarterback, you have to, number one, be a great leader. Number two, you have to execute. You don’t have to make flashy plays at quarterback to be a great quarterback; you have to be consistent, consistent, consistent. Both of them are getting better at that.” On Davin Hawkins’ performance: “Davin is doing really well. That was the best move, I felt like he needed to move to linebacker, we were thin at that position. He’s bringing a good bit to the linebacker spot. He brings a lot of passion to it. He’s doing really well, especially for the little time he’s been there.”
Contribution by Alyssa Newton, SE
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VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014
USA Men’s tennis seals 5-2 match over Illinois State By JENNA MUNDAY Staff Reporter
Hoping to rebound from their most recent loss, the University of South Alabama men’s tennis team was scheduled to host Eastern Kentucky and Illinois State this week at the Bruce Lubel Memorial Tennis Courts. However, not all went as planned for the Jaguars. The match against Eastern Kentucky Tuesday, March 11 was canceled due to inclement weather and was not rescheduled. This match would have marked the first ever meeting between South Alabama and Eastern Kentucky. Despite the delay, the Jags were still set to play Illinois State Thursday, March 13. South Alabama entered the week with a 10-5 overall record after going 1-1 during spring break. The University of South Alabama and Illinois State University entered the match tied 1-1 in the all-time series. The Redbirds beat the Jaguars 5-2 when the teams faced off in 2010. However, history did not repeat itself this year as the South Alabama Jaguars topped Illinois State with a 5-2 victory.
COURTESY OF USAJAGUARS
Junior Manuel Belda earned two victories, including a win at No. 3 singles University of South Alabama junior Manuel Belda (Posadas, Misiones, Argentina) earned two victories, including a win at No. 3 singles to help secure the match in South Alabama’s favor. Belda teamed up with freshman Quincy Olij (Alkmaar, Netherlands) to clinch the doubles point with an 8-3 win against Jakub Eisner and Rolan-
do Torrellas at the No. 1 spot. Belda picked up his 10th win this season later in the day, when he rallied to outlast Muddappa Appanervanda 6-2, 2-6, 7-5. “Illinois State is an indoor team so we had to make sure that we had a lot of energy in doubles,” USA head coach Nick Brochu said. “I was very happy to see that our new combination
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at No. 1 worked really well and we got a quick win at that spot. That was impressive and gave us a good confidence boost.” The Jaguars also picked up wins in the top four singles positions. According to USA Jaguars, junior Daniel Leitner (Niederfischbach, Germany) gave the Jags a 2-0 lead when he downed Eisner 6-2, 6-3 at the No. 1
spot. Dylan Steffens answered with a 6-2, 6-1 win against Olij at No. 6. Freshman Tuki Jacobs (Windhoek, Namibia) put USA up 3-1 with a 6-0, 4-6, 6-2 victory against Jacob Wilson in the No. 2 flight. Torrellas claimed the final point for the Redbirds when he edged Juan Troglia (Mendoza, Argentina) 2-6, 7-6 (7-2), 7-5 at No. 5. Following Belda’s matchwinning point, sophomore Gerhard Gruindelingh (Pretoria, South Africa) closed out the day when he topped Urh Kranjnc Domiter 3-6, 7-6 (8-6), 6-2 on the No. 4 court. “It was very disappointing that we started singles so well, winning the first set on five courts, and then we just stopped moving and let them come back,” Brochu said. “That’s unacceptable. Luckily, we had guys that were able to dig deep and win.” The University of South Alabama improved to 11-5 in their spring campaign, while Illinois State University fell to 5-6 overall. The USA men’s tennis team is set to take on Tulane for their next match in New Orleans on March 15.
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Opinion
MATTHEW STRICKLAND, OPINION EDITOR strickland.matthew12@gmail.com VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014
From Disney to Bangerz, we can’t stop Miley Cyrus
By JORDAN KNOX Contributing Writer
I
n 2007, Britney Spears went from being the princess of pop to a bald-headed psycho. She quickly became the focus of every late night monologue and the center point of every tabloid. There wasn’t a single person in America who didn’t know her name. At the beginning of her career, she was somewhat of a role model, and people respected her. It wasn’t until her divorce from Kevin Federline that people began to see a darker side of the pop star. With so much media attention and the paparazzi in her face, it’s easy to see how the pressure became too much to handle. While it’s easy to make jokes and assume that she’s just having a psychotic breakdown, the truth has been obscured and sensationalized by the media. The real cause for her
actions was buried under dramatic headlines and photos lacking context. The following year, Justin Bieber was discovered by Scooter Braun, when Braun happened upon YouTube videos of Bieber. For several years following, Bieber remained in the spotlight. His fan base grew quickly, and his career took off. For most of his career, Bieber demanded positive attention and claimed to be someone whom children could look up to. It wasn’t until he had been caught smoking weed that his name became synonymous with the bad boy image we are familiar with now. Spears and Bieber both started out as respectable celebrities but then had their reputations scarred by instances of distasteful behavior. This has all but ended the two pop stars' careers. Yet there is one celebrity who has thrived off such actions. Miley Cyrus has been in the eye of the media on and off since March 2006 when she snagged a role on a new Disney Channel show, “Hannah Montana.” It wasn’t until 2012 when she cut off her long brown locks and sported a platinum blonde pixie cut that the media began to add a negative connotation to her name. Cyrus, Spears and Bieber all have one thing in common and that is the
fact that they have all experienced the negative aspects of fame. The only thing separating Cyrus from the other two is that she brings these negative connotations on herself. In fact, she actually demands them. On March 9, Cyrus missed a costume change and came on stage in just her underwear. As we all know, she has been known to wear some pretty revealing outfits, so Cyrus performing in her underwear didn’t come as much of a surprise. Whether she intentionally missed the costume change to draw more attention to herself or whether she honestly just didn’t have time to make the change isn’t the real issue. While most people are concerned that the pop star is on a downward spiral, it could also be said that she simply knows how to play the game. After the final episode of “Hannah Montana” aired, Cyrus had two years off when she didn’t have to work. She bought her own house and stayed out of the public eye. After her hiatus, she made her way back into the spotlight by tweeting a photo of her new ‘do. Ever since the debut of her new look, her name and face have stayed in the media. Her popularity has sparked the interest of talk show hosts and parents alike. While the media somewhat glamorizes her flashy lifestyle, some people are in-
creasingly concerned that what she is doing is negatively influencing the youth of our nation. Whether or not this is true, it is impossible to argue that Cyrus isn’t smart. She knows exactly how to draw attention to herself and keep her fame on the rise. Whether she is chopping off her hair, rolling a joint on stage or baring it all in a music video, the young star is constantly doing something controversial.
The truth of the matter is, Cyrus was never able to really be herself while she was signed under a Disney contract. In several interviews, she has claimed that she’s always been the same person; it just wasn’t until now that she was finally able to express her true self. In the words of the late, great Hannah Montana, “My intentions are good, sometimes just misunderstood.”
COURTESY OF MILEY CYRUS’ TWITTER
Miley Cyrus sporting her new, drastic haircut.
What would you like to see with the reopening of the Student Center? RYAN WALLACE Central print center. Staff it 24/7 during the week before and during finals. Printouts are free for students up to a certain amount, say 400 pages/semester. Expensive, but a boon for students and individual schools can save the money they spend on paper and toner. Not to mention, it alleviates the problem of students getting in trouble for using the computer labs in the Business school or other labs when they’re not supposed to.
NICK GRONDIN Foosacklys and a Dunkin donuts.
LAUREN SMITH Keeping it open. The soft opening on April 1st can’t come fast enough. Keep it open starting in April so students can use that location for study groups for finals instead just having a soft opening then the official opening in the fall (or whenever)
To post your answers to the next JagPulse, be sure to follow us on Facebook.
BRITTNEY ELIZABETH GERS Lazer Tag. ELLIS HICKS A jukebox that plays “Sunglasses at Night”
LEAH COVINGTON Game room TRAVIS MILLER Free balloons.
DENNIS MERSEREAU A Foosackly’s inside a parking garage inside a football stadium next to more dumpsters near Stokes Hall
and “Safety Dance” 24/7 Facebook.com/ TheVanguardUSA
ELIZABETH DAY Foosacklys for sure
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VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014
Jag football may act as MVP in South promotion
By RYAN WALLACE Contributing Writer
I
t’s mid-March, and football withdrawals are in full swing. With a busy school schedule, work and Major League Baseball’s spring training to tide me over, I thought I would be able to make it through this year. But then spring practices for college football started. It’s like being on a diet and watching someone eat a box of Twinkies in front of you. Even if the players themselves are only in helmets and
gym shorts some days, spring practice makes it feel as though fall is just around the corner. Enthusiasm for South Alabama football has only grown since the program was announced late in 2007, from seasons of play against smaller schools to 2012’s rough 2-10 opening campaign as an FBS team to this past season’s impressive (for a 6-yearold program) 6-6 season. With several promising recruits and last season’s momentum, the Jags are looking to make 2014 an eye-opening campaign both around Mobile and around the Sun Belt Conference. With the future a rosy horizon for South Alabama football, it’s important to place some focus on the significance of having a football team on campus. First and most obvious, having a successful football team is a positive for universities in branding and licensing purposes. This, in turn, is a great
revenue stream even for smaller schools like South. The more nationally relevant a school is, the better that licensing becomes, as TV channels like ESPN rush to carry the games of schools that people want to see. Like many South Alabama students, I hold a loyalty to another school on the gridiron. In my case, it is my beloved Texas A&M Aggies, where I earned a degree before my time at USA. I say all of that to make a point about the importance of that increased national appeal the school stands to gain from a successful, visible football program. When I would return home for Christmas or summer during my A&M years, people would ask me about how things were going at Texas Tech. A&M wasn’t relevant, and people didn’t really know that much about it. Just look at the Aggies now: between SEC exposure
and a thrilling, exciting team headed by a polarizing character like Johnny Manziel, everyone knows who Texas A&M is now. In amazingly short order, the school secured the funds for a massive stadium rebuild, based in significant part on the success of just a couple of seasons of football that people wanted to see. There are complaints, as there always will be, that the large amounts of money spent on football teams is a hindrance, not an aide, to providing students with an education. For all but the 25 or so college athletic departments that actually turn a profit, football (always the most expensive sport) seems like an unaffordable luxury. But such a view neglects the value of both the exposure/licensing argument and the value of the enhancement a program offers to student life, not to mention the awarding of schol-
arships to players who otherwise may not have been able to afford school without accruing debt. With the promising outlook of both our football team and the University as a whole, I think we as students should prepare to root for years of exciting (and beneficial) Jaguar football.
USA self-defense class may help eliminate fear By MARIE BOYD Contributing Writer
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hat can we do to protect ourselves in a bad situation? Let's face it: crime is not going away, and law enforcement can only do so much. So what is the answer? Arm yourself with the physical and mental know-how to deflect an attacker by learning self-defense. As with any skill, self-defense requires practice, but what you can learn is how to accurately defend yourself by knowing your attackers’ weaknesses. With the right training, you can avoid the single worst response of an unprepared person faced with a threat—freezing! If you can move, you can do something, but you have to practice and be prepared mentally and physically. What if your assailant has a weapon like a knife, a gun or a heavy object? Self-defense training can prepare you for that situation by giving you the ability to respond efficiently and effectively. The Department of Justice statistics show armed attackers actually hit their targets less than 4 percent of the time. Those carrying knives wound their victims about 20 percent of the time. However, those odds change drastically if you lose your cool, thereby giving your attacker the upper hand. It is easier to prepare ahead of time rather than find yourself subdued by a maniac. You cannot expect to escape every possible scenario, but you can be prepared for it. Beyond the threat of possible physical violence, self-defense is exercise and can benefit you in so many ways. According to the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular physical activity can help control your weight, reduce risk of disease, improve your ability to do daily activities by increasing flexibility and balance, perk up mental health and mood, and ultimately increase your chances of living longer. Who does not want to look and feel good, as well as be able to hold their own at the same time? If you were not already aware, South is sponsoring a new self-defense class taught by Zanshin Gulf Coast Jiu Jitsu Academy. The martial art of jiu jitsu is widely used for self-defense, and the Gracie Survival Tactics (GST) Military/Law Enforcement Certification Course is used by nearly every federal and state law enforcement agency in the U.S. and all five branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. In an effort to raise awareness about the class, Zanshin held a free demo March 12 in the SGA courtyard where several onlookers watched as Corey Richardson, Zanshin's head instructor, demonstrated many valuable skills the self-defense class will offer. According to volleyball player and sophomore Deanna Canfield, "The demonstration was very helpful because of the little pointers on how to handle a (self-defense) situation." Basketball player and sophomore Sharon Sanders said, "The demo was very interesting. They had a great demonstration for almost every (self-defense) scenario that I could possibly think of. It's a very great opportunity to be prepared for real life-threatening situations." Beginning March 31, the self-defense class will be held Mondays and Wednesdays from
12:20 p.m. to 1:20 p.m. and will consist of 16 sessions. You can register for the class at southalabama.edu/cce/registration. If you missed the first demo, do not fret! There will be another free demonstration March 19, at 12 p.m. in the SGA courtyard located in front of the Student Center.
Remember, even if you are alone and even if it is late and dark out, everyone has the right to walk in public places without fearing for his or her life. Knowing what to do in case of an attack gives you a more confident air, which in itself may be enough to persuade the attacker to stay away.
COURTESY OF MARIE BOYD
Kim Williams and Corey Richardson (head instructor) demo a throw in the SGA courtyard.
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VOL. 54, NO. 9 / MAR. 17, 2014