9.19.2011 by The Vanguard

September 19, 2011 | Vol. 49 No. 8

“If It Matters to the USA Family, It Matters to Us.”

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USA Jags Unable to Catch NC State Wolfpack

Th e N o r th Car olina State Wo lfpa ck defeated th e S ou th Al abam a Jag u ar s on S atu r d ay , wi th a 3 5 1 3 f i n a l s cor e . The J agu ars ta ke o n their nex t bi g te am th i s c om i n g we e ke n d .

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Full coverage in Sports: pg. 15

Campus Alerts Explained Organization Gives Back The USA Campus alert system has been controversial in the past. The Vanguard went looking for answers. Cassie Fambro Editor-in-Chief

During the Labor Day weekend, severe weather threatened the coastal area, including Mobile. Students and administration have opposing views as to if the USA campus was threatened, as well as what should have been done to warn students. Political science major Dennis Mersereau wrote to The Vanguard and expressed his discontent at the campus warning system not being used in the face of Mobile County tornado warnings. The Vanguard, Jag-TV, Jag-Radio, StormTEAM4 and USA Sports were among the various sources disseminating weather information

WEEKLY INSIDER

via social media over the weekend to students. The tone after the storms had passed was disbelief that the source clearly missing was the official USA weather warning system. Director of Public Relations Keith Ayers sat down with The Vanguard to explain the protocol in a weather event. “The industry standard is the National Weather Service,” Ayers stated. The office of public relations, in charge of alerting students of dangerous situations, monitors the weather 24/7, along with USAPD. In fact, Ayers said, “USAPD can act without administration involvement” and sound the weather warnings if they see fit. Ayers explained that the weather alert system is carefully used as not to desensitize students to its meaning. If it sounds, it should effectively be a signal to students to See ALERTS page 6

The Center for Service-Learning and Civic Engagement works on a Day of Service to make an accessible picnic area for disabled students

USA Service: How to Help Veterans- See page 2 Opinion: page 12 |

Life: page 7

Sports: page 15

Staﬀ Photo See SERVICE page 2

2 Faculty Club Opens: A Decade to Fruition The

Vanguard

Cassie Fambro

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF The University finally has a new perk for its employees, according to the Faculty Senate. In the works for several years, a Vanguard article in 2007 stated that Campus Crest, the company that owns The Grove, donated the Faculty Club building to the University. The archive article said the building cost $800,000 to $1 million, according to USA President Gordon Moulton. Campus Crest donated the building itself, not the money. Faculty Senate has been lobbying for a faculty club for at least ten years, according to the article. Last year’s Faculty Senate chair, Dr. Jim Connors, said that the completion of the facility is “a benefit to all faculty and staff.” Even employees of the research park adjacent to campus can use the facility. Calling the Faculty Club a “place for discourse,” Connors sees the facility as a place where faculty of all disciplines can mingle and share intellectually. He also points out the value of inviting colleagues from other schools and hosting interviews for potential faculty in a location that shows the faculty is valued at USA. “This is a great place to show-

case the faculty, poets, musicians, scientists, even to have presentations on research,” Connors said. The SA Group was involved in helping to furnish the club with TRB Associates and D. Bark Associated, Inc. The facility has two clubhouse rooms, one large meeting room for over 50 guests and a bar area that Mitchell Center Manager Victor Cohen calls “the coffee bar.” The coffee bar is managed by Aramark and serves alcohol to faculty and staff. The liquor license states that the facility can legally sell beer, wine and liquor. This is one of the reasons that the club is off-limits to students, even if they are 21 or graduate students. There will be a doorperson that checks University ID’s upon entrance. Serving alcohol will help the Faculty Club break-even in running-costs. For the timebeing, the facility is open from 3 p.m. until 6:30 p.m., Tuesdays through Thursdays. Cohen hopes that it will become a place where faculty and staff can meet to watch away Jaguar football games. The meeting areas will be flexible depending on the need for use. Connors hopes for the next

NEWS

T h e F a c u l t y C l u b f e a t u r e s t w o sp a ci o u s cl u b h o u se styl e m e e t i n g r o o m s a s w e l l a s a l a r g e m e e ti n g a r e a .

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See CLUB page 6 T h e U S A F a c u l t y C l u b h a s a s to cke d b a r fo r faculty use on weekdays.

Day of Service: CASCLE Cont. SERVICE from pg. 1

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Help Homeless Vets Co u rt e s y o f J a n e t Dav i s , P r e s i d e n t o f t h e S t u d e n t Ve t e ra n ’s A s s o c ia t io n v e t s @ u s o u t h a l . e d u

Staff Photo

The Center for Service-Learning and Civic Engagement’s finished project! The picnic tables are completely wheelchair accessible.

The Homeless Veteran “Stand Down!” is Thursday, Oct.13 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Student Veterans Organization is staging a clothing drive in support of this effort. All clothing can be dropped off in the VA Office, located in Suite 2300 in Meisler Hall, or a pickup can be arranged. We are requesting all manner of clothing for adults. Mostly men, but there are some women and spouses as well. No undergarments or socks can be accepted unless they are brand new, in packaging. Any publicity or aid that can be provided would be most welcome. These men and women often

have disabilities ranging from moderate social anxiety to severe PTSD and personality disorders. Their inability to obtain and/ or maintain gainful employment has left them at the mercy of others. It is my hope, that by raising awareness and public concern for these individuals, that we can support them when they need it most. Let us, as a community, show them that there are still those that care, that we have not forgotten their sacrifices and service. Editor’s Note: If you have a charity or cause that you would like highlighted, e-mail us at editor. in.chief@usavanguard.com

September 19, 2011 | The Vanguard

PoliceBlotter Have a question for USAPD? Ask us, and we can ask them for you/ E-mail us your questions to editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com and we’ll get answers. Total Incidents: 31 Dates: Sept. 3-Sept. 15

Theft from Public Building Possessions were reported as stolen from Stadium Dr. at approximately 5:20 p.m.

9/2 Possession of Banned Substances A suspect was found in possession of drug paraphernalia in the first offense, possession of marijuana and overall violation of University rules. The offense occurred near the Epsilon dormitories.

9/6 Theft of Property Possessions were reported as being stolen from Stadium Dr. at approximately 7:56 p.m.

9/2 Driving Under the Influence/Minor in Possession of Alcohol A suspect was arrested on Cleverdon Pkwy. at 2:57 a.m. for driving under the influence of alcohol. The suspect was also under the legal drinking age. 9/5 Theft of Article from Auto Possessions were reported as stolen from a vehicle at the Kappa Alpha Fraternity House at approximately 10:49 p.m. 9/5 Theft of Property Third Degree Possessions were reported as stolen from the Delta dormitories at approximately 5:06 p.m. 9/6 Property Damage Property was reported as being damaged at University North Dr./ILB Library at approximately 4:31 p.m. 9/6

9/6 Expired Driver’s License A suspect was pulled over near Greek Row and was found to have an expired driver’s license. 9/7 Possession of Banned Substances A suspect was found in possession of drug paraphernalia in the second offense, possession of marijuana and overall violation of University rules. The offense occurred near the Gamma dormitories at Stadium Dr. 9/8 Theft of Article from Auto Possessions were reported as stolen from a vehicle at the University Library at approximately 11:28 a.m. 9/9 Abandoned Vehicle A vehicle was reported as being abandoned at the Research and Technology Park at 3:55 a.m. 9/10 Abandoned Vehicle A vehicle was reported as being abandoned at the University Library at 7:05 a.m.

SGA: Have to ‘Stop Codling the Clubs’ Matt Weaver

SENIOR REPORTER Allotting funds to need-based campus clubs was the story over the week as the South Alabama Student Government Association struggled to appropriate funds to applying organizations. The problem, according to Treasurer Nick Lawkis, is that while many groups apply for assistance, several of them are behind on turning in their packets. “At what point do we stop codling the clubs,” Lawkis asked. “We’ve given them deadline after deadline and communicated it to them at least four times. I just want the committee to understand how many times this has been communicated before we give them another extension.” The SGA grants extensions for organizations that offer valid

The

Vanguard News

explanations, but a rising number of Senators would prefer updating the appropriations process. Such a decision is on hold until the SGA finalizes an appropriations committee for the upcoming semester. Once an appropriations request has been approved, the SGA will appropriate a maximum of $1,000 to a group to be divided how they see fit. Appropriation is based on a record of receipts and the SGA must see and approve the group’s spending record before receiving a refund on the amount spent. Trial Date Set for Impeached Attorney General A trial date has finally been set for Attorney General Jean Pierre Arditi. The trial will determine if there is enough evidence to remove Arditi from his chair and has been set for Tuesday, Sep. 27

at the Biomedical Sciences Library. Arditi has been accused of using his position to supersede the authority of Chief Justice Coleman Wolf by appealing traffic tickets for an acquaintances. Arditi has claimed innocence and has prepared a defense. Troy Shephard is the SGA’s prosecuting attorney and will present his evidence to the Senate before Arditi’s defense presents their case. The decision will be left to a vote by the Senate and will determine Arditi’s future with the SGA. A three-fourths vote is required to indict guilt. If found guilty, Arditi’s case is sent to the disciplinary action committee for a punishment before being sent back to the Senate for a final vote.

The

Vanguard University of South Alabama’s Student Voice 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. Submission and Editorial Policies Send letters and guest columns to: editor. in.chief@usavangaurd.com or The Vanguard, University of South Alabama, P.O. Drawer U-1057, Mobile, Ala. 36688. 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. Unsigned letters will not be published. 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, Associate Editor, Copy Editor, Senior Reporter, and Opinion Editor. All members of the Editorial Board have the same weight during weekly Editorial Board meetings. The Vanguard has a commitment to accuracy and clarity and will print any corrections or clarifications. To report a mistake, call the Editor-in-Chief at 251-460-6442 or e-mail editor..in.chief@usavangaurd.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. EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief: Cassie Fambro Associate Editor: Genny Roman Senior Reporter: Matt Weaver Copy Editor: Carey Cox Life Editor: Bailey Hammond Opinion Editor: Imran Mohiuddin Sports Editor: Jayson Curry Web-Editor: Naquita Hunter DISTRIBUTION Distribution Manager: Johnny Davis ADVERTISING STAFF Advertising Manager: Wesley Jackson Graphic Designer: Brittany Hawkins

Corrections We would like to thank Mr. Pavaka for pointing out to The Vanguard that we ran an incorrect date in the last edition of The Vanguard. We regret the error and will quadruple check dates from now on!

MANAGEMENT Adviser: James Aucoin Accounting: Kathy Brannan

4 Chemistry Building ‘Structurally Sound’ The

Vanguard News

Carey Cox

COPY EDITOR The chemistry building is in good condition, despite the cracks in the exterior of the building, Chris Willis, director of facilities management, said. “Generally, it’s always been determined that the cracks are expansion cracks, and they’re not really of hazard to the building and people around the building,” Willis said. The corner cracks have been present since the building was built in 1984, but the University has become more concerned about them in the past two years because of some falling brick and mortar. In 2010, Thompson Engineering, a Mobile-based engineering firm, performed a study on the building and found that the building is structurally sound, and the cracks are generally expansion cracks. The cracks are within the aesthetic brick skin on the building. “The building is structurally sound. There’s no differential settlement, there’s no failing foundations, there’s no failing

September 19, 2011

structural members on the build- areas, Willis said. has a problem with aesthetic ing,” Willis said. No other building on campus cracking. Facilities management has fenced off the areas where the bricks have cracked and also built an arch corner on the east side of the building for people to walk under as a precaution to make students and faculty feel safe. “Our thought was let’s make sure that everybody feels safe, and we’ll do some fencing underneath those cracks as kind of a hold-off area,” Willis said. The University will evaluate over the new few months on what to do to fix the cracking. Possible solutions are to re-skin the building, take out the bad sections and replace them, or re-grout the area every few years. Re-skinning the building, meaning replacing all of the exterior bricks, will be expensive to do and matching the brick color in the bad sections will be difficult, so o n c e r n w a s e x p r e s s e d t o T h e Va n g u a r d th a t cr a cks l i ke Staﬀ Photo the most reasonable solution C t h e s e m i g h t m e a n t h e C h e m i s t r y B u i ld i n g w a s stu ctu r a l l y u n s o u n d a n d p o t e n t i a l l y u n s a f e f o r i nh a b i ta n ts. will be to re-grout the cracked

The Vanguard’s Weather Forecast: 9/19-9/25 We will start oﬀ the school week with showers and thunderstorms. Highs on Monday will be around 86 with mostly cloudy skies, lows will be around 68. Tuesday through Wednesday will be much of the same with thunderstorms and mostly cloudy skies, highs will be in the mid 80s and lows will be in the upper 60s. Thursday and Friday will be partly cloudy with sca ered thunderstorms, highs will be in the upper 80s and overnight lows will be in the mid to upper 60s. The weekend looks a li le be er but we will s ll see sca ered thunderstorms with partly cloudy skies. A ernoon highs will be in the mid 80s with nigh me lows in the mid 60s.

For the latest on your forecast, severe weather updates and what’s going on in the tropics, Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/ StormTeam4Gamma9Wx

Courtesy of Student Meteorologist Patrick Bigbie

The

Vanguard

September 19, 2011

Student IDs In More Demand than Ever Genny Roman

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Students alerted us on Facebook that there was a student ID shortage. The Vanguard investigated and found that there was a shortage, but it has since been rectified. Earlier this semester, USA students who needed to replace their student IDs had to wait a little while. SouthPaw Services, a division of Student Affairs, experienced a shortage of student IDs during the beginning of the semester. Student IDs featuring the legal language on the back of the card

ran out due to high demand. “So many [students] came in needing new IDs,” said Michael Matarrese, a sophomore chemical engineering major and employee of SouthPaw Services. He and fellow SouthPaw Services employee Andrea Pittman credited the shortage to the influx of students at the start of the semester who needed IDs. “We had orientation,” said Matarrese, and new students usually have their student IDs made during orientation. “The [medical] and nursing schools also had to have new IDs made,” said Pittman. “Med students, nursing students, ESL students, every kind of student” came in to SouthPaw Services for a new ID, according

to Matarrese. SouthPaw Services did make temporary IDs without the legal language for students who had to have student IDs. Nursing students as well as those students who must have an ID to use their on-campus meal plan were given priority for temporary IDs. SouthPaw Services used this form of triage when distributing temporary IDs to avoid having too many IDs in circulation. “We didn’t want a whole bunch of IDs out there, so some students had to wait for a while,” Matarrese said. Some speculation spread as to the availability of student IDs recently. According to Matarrese, the shortage was at the start of the

semester in August, and it took less than a week to receive new IDs featuring the full legal language on the back of the cards. Student IDs are currently available at SouthPaw Services.

Have a question? Ask us on Facebook: ‘The Vanguard: USA’s Student Newspaper’

News In Brief Thank you to all contributors.

Admissions Office Lobby Named for Dr. David Stearns Associate Vice President for Enrollment Services Dr. David Stearns received a surprise accolade recently when the lobby of the Admissions Office was named in his honor. The recognition of Stearns’ accomplishments with the University was made possible through a gift from philanthropists Bert and Fanny Meisler, for whom the student services’ building is named. The Meislers presented the plaque to Stearns during a recent reception.

ment of the student services building, the Meislers have been longtime supporters of the University over the years. They also established the Ripps-Meisler Endowed Chair in the College of Medicine and provide extensive support to University athletic programs. Their gifts to the University now total $2.6 million.

Cleveland, Ohio.

Career Services Hosts Events in Preparation for Oct. 7 Grad Expo

An Interviewing 101 seminar will be on Tuesday, Sept. 20 at 2:30 p.m. in Career Services, 2100 Meisler Hall. Interviewing 101 will break down the inUSA College of Medicine Welterview preparation plan into three phases: comes Bariatric Surgeon Dr. Sheetal what to do before, during and after the Nijhawan interview. Career Services will provide tips on all Dr. Sheetal Nijhawan was recently apaspects of the professional job interview, pointed assistant professor in the departincluding topics such as how to dress, ment of surgery at the University of South what questions may be asked and how to Alabama College of Medicine. communicate with employers. Meisler Portrait Unveiled in She will serve as a laparoscopic and This is a can’t-miss workshop for anyone Meisler Hall bariatric surgeon for the USA Physicians preparing to enter the job search process. Career Services will also hold a GraduThe University of South Alabama recent- Group with special qualifications in robotic surgery. ate School Preparation Workshop on ly unveiled a portrait of philanthropists Prior to her appointment to USA, Dr. Thursday, Sept. 22 at 2 p.m. in Career Fanny and Bert Meisler in the lobby of Meisler Hall, the student services building Nijhawan completed a fellowship in mini- Services. mally invasive, robotic and bariatric surNo pre-registration is required for any of endowed by the local couple. these events. For more information about Local artist Stephanie Morris painted the gery with the University of California at the seminars, please contact Career Serportrait of the couple and was on hand for San Diego. Dr. Nijhawan earned her medical degree vices at (251) 460-6188. the unveiling. The Meislers’ children and from Bangalore Medical College and Regrandchildren were also at the event and search Institute in Bangalore, India. reception. She completed a categorical surgery resiIn addition to their $2 million endowdency program at the Cleveland Clinic in

The

Vanguard

September 19, 2011

Cont. ALERTS

Cont. CLUB

from page 1

from page 5

take cover, not wonder if it’s a watch or a warning. Ayers expressed concern over the lack of definition between a tornado watch and warning, as well as what the warnings mean. He says that the early morning warnings did not pose an “imminent” threat to the USA campus, or “they would have taken immediate and swift action to warn students” with the campus alert system. The Vanguard’s student meteorologist Patrick Bigbie and owner of StormTEAM4, disagrees. “The campus was in the warning polygon, and a tornado did touch down within 15 miles of the campus,” Bigbie said. He believes information should be taken in from a multitude of sources, and not just the National Weather Service. Bigbie said a possible solution to the watch/warning conundrum with the campus sirens could be altering the siren protocol. “The sirens should have multiple tones for different alerts, tornado warnings, shootings, etc.” Bigbie said. USAPD Chief Aull told The Vanguard that USAPD “monitors the weather 24/7, 365 days a year. If we do get a warning, we are notified, and they are distinct to us. We have complete autonomy to be able to sound the alarms ourselves.” Aull also stated that the office was fully staffed that weekend, even though it was a holiday weekend. He echoed Ayers’ concern about desensitization, saying “we don’t want to overuse that signal for purposes that aren’t imminent to the University. We don’t sound them off for a tornado in north Mobile County.” All sources agreed that the advice they would give to students and staff would be to purchase a weather radio. “They work when the power is out,” Ayers said. “It could save your life,” Mersereau emphasized. If the University does declare a threat to the campus, it will officially notify students via e-mail, telephone (Wide Area Rapid Notification) and the loudspeaker system.

Faculty Senate awards banquet to be held there, for instance. Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. John Smith says the building itself represents a far greater message as a whole. “We have a wonderful faculty here, and the administration supports that bond,” Smith said. Dr. Connors agrees, calling the Faculty Club a step toward becoming a more “significant learning institution.”

Need a job? Good at Writing and Editing? Send resume to editor. in.chief@ usavanguard. com .

INTERESTED IN WRITING FOR THE VANGUARD? Send us an e-mail. Opinion Editor opinion.editor@usavanguard.com Life Editor life.editor@usavanguard.com Sports sports.editor@usavanguard.com Story ideas, letters to the editor, etc. editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com www.thevanguardonline.com

The

Vanguard Life

September 19, 2011

Life

Bailey Hammond, Life Editor life.editor@usavanguard.com

Weekly Camp Rap-A-Hope: Carrying Burdens Lowdown Jake Howell

Wednesday, September 21 Comedian Michelle Buteau 7:30 p.m. Mitchell Center Waterman Globe FREE “Michelle will perform stand-up comedy”.

Thursday, September 22 Vanilla Cupcake Day! Lunch at Campus Dining Facility Sweet Treats @ the Fresh Food Co. “Come have a cupcake!”

Friday, September 23 “I Hate Hamlet” Opening Night 7:30 p.m., Laidlaw PAC Theatre Tickets go on sale September 12th and the Box Office hours are 9-4:30p.m. Monday -Friday

Saturday, September 24 Peace Unveiled 2:00 p.m. at Space 301 (301 Con St) “Film follows three women in Afghanistan who are risking their lives to make sure that women have a seat at the nego a ng table.” Community Cinema project from Mobile Arts Council

Flash Forward Wednesday, September 28 “70’s Rock at 7 o’clock” 7:00 p.m. at Humani es Auditorium FREE “Multimedia Presentation about 70’s Rock”

Thursday, September 29 Speaker: Marc Wayshak 7:30 p.m. at Mitchell Center Waterman Globe “Barrier Basher and Mo va onal Speaker” MUST RSVP to ac vi es@usouthal.edu by Thursday, September 22 Want your event featured? Email the name, date, time, price, place and a brief tagline (under seven words) to life.editor@usavanguard.com. Include “Weekly Lowdown” in the subject line. Emails must be received at least seven days before the event.

thing to the families of the kids and is run mainly through volunteers. As stated on Camp Rap-A-Hope’s website, “camp is offered at no cost to the campers and their families, as cancer has been costly enough.” The camp is sponsored by the Medical Society and The Alliance to the Medical Society of Mobile County in the state of Alabama. Camp Rap-A-Hope isn’t limited to the one week in July, however. They also hold annual deep sea fishing trips in Orange Beach, Ala., a Fall Family Fun Day and a Holiday Party. Zain Husain, junior political sci-

where she was supposed to be. “I left with tears in my eyes, not because I was sad, but because I didn’t Think back to when you were a kid. want to leave!” McNichol said. For most of us, childhood was a McNichol shared her favorite time spent playing outside, exploring memory from camp involving former the “wilderness” of our backyards, University of South Alabama football and fighting battles against monsters player Brett Hancock. alongside imaginary friends. The scene took place two summers Now imagine what your childhood ago with a girl who had recently would’ve been like had you been diagreceived a bone graft and couldn’t put nosed with cancer. any weight on one of her legs. According to the American ChildShe told McNichol that she wanted hood Cancer Organization, “each year to do the high ropes course, despite in the U.S. there are approximately her leg. 12,400 children between the ages of The little girl was determined to try birth and 19 years of age who are climbing the rope laddiagnosed with cancer der to the course, but (candlelighters.org.)” couldn’t. These children Instead, Hancock caroften don’t get to play ried her up the ladder outside. and throughout the ropes Rather than explorcourse on his back. ing their backyards, “As she came down the they know the layout zip-line at the end of the of a hospital better course, she was screamthan some doctors. ing ‘this is the best thing They are fighting I’ve ever done!’” McNichreal battles against ol said. real monsters. McNichol also added “I Thankfully, there realized that, even for a are still places where little while, we were able these kids can just be to carry a child’s burden kids. of cancer.” Camp Rap-A-Hope McNichol also spoke is one such place. about volunteering opEvery summer chilportunities and needs at dren ages seven to 17 Staﬀ Photo Camp Rap-A-Hope. from across the Gulf As stated on the brocoast flock to Camp Camp Rap-A-Hope is a light in a dark time for children with cancer and their chure for the camp, they Rap-A-Hope for one families. For a small piece of time, they can have fun and enjoy being kids. “begin a serious search reason: to have fun. for volunteers each Held at Camp Grace winter.” right here in Mobile, ence/biology major, had this to say Volunteers can get involved by beCamp Rap-A-Hope gives these kids about the fishing trip: “I never saw so ing camp counselors during the weekone week away from hospitals to be many smiling faces in my life. All the long summer camp and interacting normal kids again. kids were having fun and you could with the kids. The kids are able to swim, kayak, see the joy on their faces when they They can also help out with the Fall go horse-back riding and much more caught a fish.” Family Fun Day coming up on Nowhile at camp. The Vanguard also chatted with Me- vember 6. There is also a high-ropes course lissa McNichol, the Executive Director Camp Rap-A-Hope holds various that, no matter what, each child gets to of Camp Rap-A-Hope. fundraisers throughout the year that complete, with the help of the volunShe started with the camp in 2001 volunteers can participate in, includteers and camp staff. after the Board of Directors decided ing a 5K Run for Hope. Each summer’s camp has a theme, to transition from a 100 percent There is also a Turkey Run slated for the most recent being “Green Eggs and volunteer-run organization to having Thanksgiving Day on campus at the Camp” for the 2011 summer. In addifull-time employees. University of South Alabama. tion to the normal arts and crafts and McNichol said that she “interviewed If any of you want to volunteer with other activities, the campers “experibecause they needed a business perthis incredible organization and make enced Dr. Suess themed events like the son” and they wanted someone “conan enormous impact in the lives of foot book dance revolution (camprapasistent that the families could talk to.” these kids, you can go online to camhope.org).” It wasn’t until she went out to the prapahope.org to find more informaOne of the most amazing things camp one summer though, that she tion. about this camp is that it doesn’t cost a realized that Camp Rap-A-Hope was Let’s make kids smile.

SECTION WRITER

The

Vanguard Life

That ‘70s Presentation Bailey Hammond

September 19, 2011

Love on a Leash Ashley Doherty

LIFE EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

If you live to “Rock!” and love the ‘70s, then you are in for a treat. Barry Drake, voted Campus Lecturer Of The Year five times by The National Association For Campus Activities and three times by Campus Activities Magazine, is set to swoop in on USA’s campus with his multimedia presentation on ‘70s Rock music. Drake is a graduate of Manhattan College in Riverdale, N.Y., and he is one of the foremost historians of Rock music. In 1970 he was signed to Capital Records and played in venues across the United States and Europe. Courtesy of www.onlyinoldtown.com So, he has experience not only Barry Drake’s presentation “70s Rock: in witnessing the birth of rock ‘n’ The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly” is roll, but also in living it firsthand. set for Sept. 28. It’s not for nothing that he is called the “walking encyclopedia into perspective 10 of the most of rock ‘n’ roll.” complicated and misunderstood In a press release, Drake’s preyears of our musical history.” sentation, “70s Rock-The Good, Anyone interested in finding The Bad & The Ugly,” will “celebrate, examine, clarify and put

How many of you see the commercials on television of the animals in shelters with Sarah McLaughlin’s “In the Arms of an Angel” playing in the background, and automatically change the channel? Don’t feel bad, I do it too. Every time I see those commercials, it only takes one sad face to bring me to tears before I quickly grab the remote. But the commercials were nothing compared to what I felt during my first trip to the Mobile County Animal Shelter (MCAS.) The MCAS is an underfunded, understaffed, under-advertised facility where the only dogs who normally make it out are those whose owners come for them and those who are pulled by a local rescue known as SouthBARK (Southern Based Animal Rescue Kinship.) In fact, in 2010 alone, approximately 8,500 animals found themselves in the MCAS and close to 5,000 of those were euthanized. During that fateful trip to MCAS,

I was greeted by deafening squeaks and barks. After walking down rows of pitiful faces, I finally asked which ones had the least time left. I was directed to a kennel containing a brown and black mutt. To be completely honest, I had barely even noticed her before. But as soon as her gate was opened, she jumped up and put her paws on my stomach—something I have since determined is her form of a hug—and her tail never stopped wagging. She had a terrible burn scar on her back, one day left on this earth and had not even been given a name; but she never seemed to notice the difference. I knew that she was the one; and almost a year later, I have never questioned my decision to adopt “Bella.” This summer, I started volunteering with SouthBARK, whose mission is to help dogs just like Bella. Dogs that, without their help, would never see the outside of an animal shelter again. Over the next several weeks, I will be sharing the efforts, concerns and See Leash page 10

See Ugly page 10

New App pp Makes Finding g Deals ‘Handy’ y Stuart Sox

CONTRIBUTING WRITER For many college students at the University South Alabama, the days of depending on parents for money are a thing of the past. Now there are countless necessities that eat away at our expenses that never did in high school. Bargains and discounts (especially those for students) are always welcome. But aren’t most students too busy to actively seek out and discover which businesses have student discounts? For some, saving money might not be worth the inconvenience. Can all of the broke college students catch a break? The answer is a resounding yes. Anyone with the aforementioned problems should take out their smart phone and search “Vidappe”. Vidappe is a relatively new iPhone/Android app that sends out notifications in real-time when you are physically close to a business with a student discount. This innovation may seem too good to be true, but many stu-

in handy for me and probably any other college student with a car,” Farnell said. So often college students eat at restaurants or purchase goods from businesses without taking advantage of its student discount. Students using Vidappe will not find this to be much of a problem. Lindsey Estes, a freshman majoring in Therapeutic Recreation, agrees. “I love being able to find the student discounts anywhere I am, because they are rarely advertised,” Estes stated. Even if you’re not “tech-savvy”, Vidappe is refreshingly easy to manage. It’s as simple as registering, adjusting personal settings, choosing your university and Vidappe does the rest onthe-go. Even if you don’t have a SmartStaﬀ Photo phone, you can still register onVidappe is a useful application for iPhone and Android smartphone users to ferret out line at www.vidappe.com and deals. view all of the deals in your area. Don’t waste any more time or lose any more money. Try Viwere actually quite a few places discounts on Vidappe. “I love Vidappe! I actually dappe and see all of the deals that I didn’t know had student discounts, like Verizon’s 25 per- didn’t know that Trax Tires had around Mobile that you can take cent off all accessories,” Smith student discounts! That will come advantage of. dents on campus are already taking advantage of its benefits. BJ Smith, a senior majoring in interdisciplinary studies, recalls his first Vidappe alert. “I was driving down Hillcrest, and I began receiving all of these notifications from Vidappe. There

said. All users of Vidappe are likely to discover multiple businesses that they were unaware had student discounts. Marisa Farnell, a freshman majoring in psychology, was ecstatic when she learned about certain

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September 19, 2011

Vanguard Life

A Look Behind the Scene Shop Bailey Hammond LIFE EDITOR

The atmosphere pulses. Even before the work begins, the energy is contagious. It’s a controlled chaos: a moment of intense happiness among comrades of an elite group. Welcome to USA’s theatre department on a departmental

They take their jobs very seriously and follow strict guidelines when building sets. They have to, because the actors trust them to build a safe set. In charge of the scenic production is the technical director who ensures that the set building process runs smoothly. USA’s theatre technical director is Lowell Miller. He overlooks

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A theatre student works in the scene shop on the departmental work day.

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This miniature model is a foreshadowing of what the finished set will look like on opening night. work day. The cast of individuals are an eclectic group, and each one has a different story to tell. However, they all work together to tell one story to an audience. When we think about theatre, most of us think about the actual play that we see acted out on the stage. Some of us might think about actors and costumes, and a few may think about the props, but do any of us ever wonder about the sets? Who makes them? How are they made? Are they put together by a group of elves at night? While that last question may be the preferred answer for some of the theatre majors, for as long as there has been professional theatre, there have been those who provide the scenery for the drama to unfold. The University of South Alabama theatre department is no exception. The scene shop is chock-full of wood scraps, sawdust, metal thingamabobs and souvenirs from productions past. And manning the saws, measuring tapes and drills are a team of scenic technicians.

the entire operation and ensures the process proceeds as smoothly and timely as possible. The scene shop foreman is Constance Smith, and it is under her direction and guidance that the bulk of the set is assembled and put together. Her shop is her domain, the tools her vassals. This happy family is rounded out by the scene shop assistants, who do the bulk of the heavy lifting. The assistants for this semester are Jonathan Davis, Paul Furlong, Stephen Dunham, Tara Gebhard and Jinae Spicciani. All of the assistants are tech design majors, and according to Smith, this is very significant, since in years past that has not been the case. The theatre department is growing, and tech design in particular has seen an increase in enrollment. Just what can you do with a degree in technical design? In Smith’s own words: “just about anything.” Technical design majors are almost guaranteed a job after graduation because of the high demand for people with the skills necessary for problem solv-

ing. Building sets is hard work, as I quickly learned on September 10. The atmosphere of excitement I dove headlong into was tempered by the skill that each person wielded while working

“scumbling,” but it’s not as scary as it sounds. Basically you start out with three different shades of a color (taupe-pink) called hi, mid and low, and then alternate painting rough patches in the different

Staff Photo

The brains and brawn gather around the blueprint table to discuss technical stuff. on separate projects. Some were putting up panels, some were cutting things, others, like myself, were painting the walls. Actually, what I did is called

colors. The end result is a limestone looking wall, ready to be “blocked out” to make it look like cut stone. See Scene page 10

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out more about ‘70s Rock & Roll is welcome to show up to the Humanities auditorium (HUMB 170) at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 28, and watch the presentation. The event is free to everyone. For more information, contact Jaguar Productions at 251460-7144.

All of the scene shop assistants strive to make the set as close to the ideal design as possible, and they take pride in their work. The set they are working on at the moment is for the comedy “I Hate Hamlet,” which will open on Sept. 25. Without giving away too much about the plot, let’s just say that the protagonist learns some valuable life lessons from a ghost whose apartment he apparently now inhabits. It’s a twist on “A Christmas Carol” and is sure to be a play worth enjoying. So if you don’t have anything planned for the nights it’s running, come support USA’s drama department, and when you clap, just remember the people behind the scenes. They need love too.

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volunteer opportunities that we, as well as other rescues, have—all in hopes of opening minds, winning hearts and saving lives. If you have any questions or stories that you would like to share related to adopting or fostering a shelter dog or cat, please send them to amd408@jaguar1.usouthal.edu.

September 19, 2011

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September 19, 2011

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Numbers to Know at USA (Cut this out)

1. USAPD- 460-6312 Anonymous Tip-Line: 460-6667 2. SGA- 460-7191 3. Housing- 460-6185 Beta/ Gamma: 460-6465 Delta: 460-6315 Epsilon: 460-7870 Greek: 460-7759 4. Parking Serivices- 461-1481 5. Student Accounting- 460-6195 6. Financial Aid- 460-6231 7. Student Health- 460-7151 8. Public Relations- 460-6211 9. Campus Emergency Alert- 460-6999 10. Veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office- 460-6230 11. International Services- 460-6050 12. Special Student Services- 460-7212 13. Counseling and Testing- 460-7051 14. Jaguar Productions- 460-7144 15. Student Activities- 460-7003 16. Multicultural Affairs- 460-6895 17. Baldwin County Campus- 928-8133 18. Human Resources- 460-6133 19. Dining Services- 460-6296 20. Student Affairs Office- 460-6171

Opinion Visit www.thevanguardonline.com

OUR VIEW EDITORIAL BOARD >>editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com

STAFF EDITORIAL Cassie Fambro | Editor-in-Chief Imran Mohiuddin | Opinion Editor Matt Weaver | Senior Reporter

Bailey Hammond | Life Editor Jayson Curry | Sports Editor

SGA Needs to Put Office Above Politics The Student Government Association is back in the hot seat again. With the pending impeachment of Attorney General Jean Pierre Arditi, the time for professionalism would be now. Unfortunately, it’s not happening. The public perception is that this is becoming a witch hunt, distracting from issues that truly matter to SGA. The article on page 3 indicates that there is serious work to be done elsewhere. Whether or not the attorney general did anything wrong is for his trial in two weeks to decide, as he stands accused of abusing his power. Vanguard veterans and other upperclassmen surely remember the Glenn Gardner debacle of two years ago where everyone’s dirty laundry ended up in the public eye. We would like to avoid a spectacle more reminiscent of the nation’s politics than a student government association that should be attempting to build their careers on following policy and seeking equality for all. We certainly hope that any personal grudges are not impending the way for a fair trial for Arditi, as some senators have anonymously suggested to us. Other senators have expressed that Arditi should have been impeached before fall started, and others

tell us that they believe there is no evidence and that this is a “popularity contest.” Regardless of the outcome, this is a terrible way to start the school year, and our desire for cohesiveness hasn’t been seen yet. This is what we want from you, SGA. 1. Follow the rules to the letter, it’s your job to know the Lowdown and to follow it. We will hold your feet to the fire if we hear you didn’t actually meet quorum again. 2. Your job is not to play favorites or enemies. Real life dictates that you sometimes work with people you don’t like. It’s called compromise, or adulthood, even. 3. Make sure when you launch an SGA sponsored program, every senator knows what it is. Senators, and even some officers, did not know what Jags 4 Jags was when asked. 4. When you are in office, you are not friends with each other. You are representing Sally, the freshmen in sociology. Jim, the junior in engineering. Not yourself. There’s a place for the petty drama. It’s called the bar. Not the SGA. We especially expect more out of this group of talented, academic and philanthropic student leaders.

When does the pendulum shift? By Megan Heatherly Contributing Writer

“Where is the Justice for me?” Troy Davis, death row inmate, begins and ends his letter to the public with these words. In 1991, Davis was found guilty of killing police officer Mark Allen MacPhail and has been on death row in Georgia for the past two decades. Although his conviction was based upon physical evidence that was later discredited and witness testimonies that have been recanted, all of Davis’ appeals have been rejected. His execution is scheduled for Sept. 21, 2011. The case has gained international attention, with organizations such as Amnesty International, the Innocence Project and the NAACP campaigning to prevent Davis’ execution. Troy Davis is not the only innocent person to be placed on death row. According to the Death Penalty Information Center (DPIC), 138 death row inmates have been exonerated and released since 1973. Unfortu-

nately, not all of the innocent escape wrongful execution. One of the most famous cases of wrongful execution is that of Cameron Todd Willingham. Willingham was a Texan man convicted and executed in 2004 for the murder of his three daughters by arson. After his execution, it was revealed that the evidence claiming that he set the fatal fire was based upon incorrect scientific findings and a flawed inDesmond Tutu vestigation. No one wants to hear of people being executed for crimes they do not commit, but many turn a blind eye to these tragic cases in defense of capital punishment. The very real chance of innocent people being executed is not the only reason to oppose the death penalty.

Though supporters claim that the primary reason for capital punishment is the deterrence or prevention of future crimes, this reason has not been proven accurate. Over 80 percent of all executions occur in the South, yet the South has the highest murder rate in the entire country, according to the 2008 FBI Uniform Crime Report. Additionally, the deterrence of convicted murderers can be accomplished by life sentences without parole. The DPIC states that death penalty cases in Texas cost an average $2.3 million each; this expense is “about three times the cost of imprisoning someone in a single cell at the highest security level for 40 years.” Archbishop and activist Desmond Tutu once said, “To take a life when a life has been lost is revenge, not justice.” Will Troy Davis experience true justice or will he be another victim of a cruel and outdated system?

“To take a life when a life has been lost is revenge, not justice.”

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Jag Voice What are your thoughts on the Fresh Foods Co.? The food is hit and miss, as is the service. Also, I would like to know why the cafe doesnt open until 10:30 a.m. on the weekends. Jacob Sanders Biomedical Sciences Sophmore The desert bar is bigger than salad bar, and there isn’t much variety for someone who doesn’t like eating burgers every day. Jemimah Chen Biomedical Sciences Freshman There isn’t anything to eat for someone who doesn’t enjoy eating too much meat. Also, there seems like a definite compromise that must be reached each week: either greasy or disgusting. Meredeth Monkell Nursing Freshman

I love the fact that fresh, healthy food is readily available just a few steps from home. It’s also nice to keep my cash in my pocket! Bethany Stone Biomedical Sciences Freshman

I think the cafeteria’s quality could be improved. Although it started off great, recently the cafeteria is beginning to suffer from all day breakfast menus, greasy pizza, and a general lack of variety and selection. Kamil Arif Biomedical Sciences Senior

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Vanguard Opinion

September 19, 2011

Point Counterpoint Should Alabama Start a Lottery? Editor’s Introduction:With the recession in full swing and unemployment hovering at just under 10 percent, many residents in Alabama believe that it’s time for the state to begin implementing a lottery system as a means of gaining revenue. Still, others think that Alabama has made it this far without one, and that the state should continue to exist without it. The P/CP explains.

We Need One Now

A Lottery Wouldn’t Work

This year colleges in Alabama lotteries take advantage of poor There seems little doubt find a lottery system conlost a lot of federal fundpeople, it’s important to that the state of Alabama tradictory to the teachings ing, and we’re paying for remember that a lottery could use some money of Christianity. it with increases in tuition. does not require anyone to right now. With unemployOn a more secular and Likewise, with unemploybuy into it. People make ment at 9.9 percent and humanistic level, gamment so high, the state that decision themselves. the economic recession not bling also presents several should do whatever it can Furthermore, the govlooking to end any time ethical concerns. For one, to generate some extra inernment soon, money it’s undeniable that a lotcome and close the deficit. should not is now more tery system preys upon One way to accomplish be regulatimportant the poor. this goal would be to creing how than ever. Numerous data shows ate a lottery system for our people spend Neverthethat members of the lowest Lam Justin state. 45 other states already their money. less, a lottery income groups spend disPham Jong have a lottery system in In order to system is not proportionate amounts of place, and it’s about time for purchase a the answer money on the lottery each Alabama to do the same. lottery ticket, buyto our state’s probyear. In fact a study by the NaPersonally, I know plenty of ers must be at least lems. tional Gambling Impact Commispeople living in Mobile who drive 18 years old, and While the idea of sion showed that families making over to Florida to purchase lottery at this age they are a lottery sounds like less than $25,000 a year spent three tickets. By purchasing these tickets, certainly capable of a good one, it really times more on lottery tickets than they stimulate the Florida economy understanding their wouldn’t work out those making between $50,000 and even though our own economy chances at winfor our state. $100,000. courtesy of www.consumeraﬀairs.com needs all the help it can get. ning. Alabama resiBecause they have very little If Alabama had its own lottery Ultimately a state lottery asks dents in general are some of the disposable income, the poor are system, people wouldn’t be hopnothing from its citizens and ofmost religious people in the nation; drawn to the lottery, thinking that ping over to neighboring states fers a chance for the average Joe to there’s a reason that our state is the money will solve their probevery time they get the urge to try become rich. called the buckle of the Bible Belt. lems. their luck. Also, even though it’s likely It’s fair to assume that a good This really isn’t the case though, Alabama is just 1 of 5 states in that vast majority of people will number of these people base their as their odds of winning are infinithe United States without a lottery. never win much, they still benefit sense of morality on the tenets that tesimally small, and it’s not really In 2006, the states’ total revenue indirectly. Their ticket sales help are emphasized in the Bible, and fair to exploit their naivety. was roughly $17 billion. Alabama fund public works projects, and the the Bible explicitly states that gamA lottery therefore may provide could implement plenty of needed benefits are likely to trickle down bling is a sin Neither a lottery nor money for the state, but it comes changes with just a fraction of that them. gambling in general emphasizes with a large moral price tag. amount. So in the end, everyone wins. hard work as a means of self-betterIt’s really not worth the cost. Though some people claim that ment, and that’s why many people

Imran Mohiuddin Opinion Editor

Pushing Boundaries

People Deserve Chance to Live Let him die This expression was echoed by the audience during the CNN Republican presidential debate, with a zeal that reminded me of a gladiator fight in a Roman coliseum. Like in ancient times, a call for blood was made, amplified by the passions of the energized crowd. But after the fervor ended and the cravings subsided, only one thing stood out about the question and the crowd responding to it: inhumanity. For those who didn’t get a chance to watch last Monday’s debate, this expression of barbarism resulted from a question CNN’s Wolf Blitzer

asked Texas congressman and 2012 presidential candidate Ron Paul. In his question, Blitzer posed a scenario to Paul in which a 30-yearold man with no health insurance but perfect health suddenly needs medical treatment for six months following an emergency accident. Congressman Paul responded by saying that freedom was about a person being able to make his own decision, but Blitzer retorted, asking bluntly, “are you saying that society should just let him die?” Though Paul responded no, explaining that there have always been people and organizations dedicated to helping the indigent, several members of the Tea Party crowd responded emphatically, yelling YES loudly enough for the cameras and the world to hear.

I wish I could say I was surprised by this incident, but I would be lying if I did. This isn’t the first time that Tea Party idealists have prioritized fervor over fact. For one, the “dangerously socialistic” law that requires hospitals to treat sick patients isn’t a product of Obamacare at all. In fact, it was signed to law in 1986 by President Ronald Regan, a Republican. Likewise, this issue is of special concern for college students, as those of us still on our parents’ health insurance plans will likely be kicked off shortly after graduation. While traditionally this wasn’t a real cause for concern, as most employers provide some form of health insurance to their employees, it would be an understatement to say that times have changed.

“I’m a person. I’m doing the best I can, and I sure as hell don’t think I deserve to die.”

This is 2011, and we’re in the midst of one of the worst doubledip recessions of all time. With so many experienced workers unemployed and searching for work, it’s unlikely that many of us will graduate with even a single job offer, and it might be months or years before we find reliable jobs. So what are we to do? No job means no money, and it’s almost impossible to pay the steep premiums of private health insurance without a steady source of income. We simply slip into the cracks of this dangerous ideology. I for one came to college because I wanted to do something worthwhile in the future, and I’d like to think I’m trying my hardest to make something of my life. With that being said, if the day comes when fate throws me a curve ball and I’m hospitalized without insurance, I don’t want to be thought of as an ideal. I’m a person. I’m doing the best I can, and I sure as hell don’t think I deserve to die.

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Jayson Curr Sports Edito

Sports.editor@usavanguardcom

Players And Coaches Echo The Same Positive Message After Loss

USA Football Suffers First Loss In History Jayson Curry Sports Editor If you ask any football coach, player, commentator or even the casual fan what the key to winning a football game is they would most likely say penalties and turnovers. Thos are exactly the things that killed South Alabama as they suffered their first loss in the program’s history Saturday night in Raleigh, NC “I’m real proud of the kids for the way they played. You look at a program like North Carolina State who beat Florida State last year, went 9-4 and is well-coached, I thought we played well to be in just the 20th game in our program’s history,” USA Head Coach Joey Jones said afterward. “Obviously, we didn’t make some plays; we made some mistakes. But probably five to seven plays in the game, if they go our way then we’re in it,” Jones said. As the Jaguars warmed up on the field at NCState’s Carter-Finley Stadium, they looked every bit the part of an upset-minded team. NCState is the game that has been circled on the Jags’ calendar for the past three years as the biggest game in the programs young history. Unfortunately, as said before, the Jags downfall and eventual loss came almost entirely from themselves with nine penalties for 50 yards, two interceptions and a fumble that was recovered by NCState. “I felt like we left everything out on the field. We made some mistakes, some crucial mistakes,” USA Safety B.J. Scott said. “You can go look at the film and see four or five plays, and we would be right there with N.C State.” The worst part of all of these miscues in Saturday’s game was that every one of them came at the worst possible time. On defense, the

Jags would force NCState into a long third down play only to get called for defensive holding, which is an automatic first down. The Jags had a drive on offense stopped because an offensive lineman was called for a false start. The Jags won the coin toss to open the game and elected to take the ball in the second half, which put the Jag defense in the spotlight first. The Wolfpack, led by quarterback Mike Glennon, scored on a nine play, 54 yard drive that ended in a one-yard touchdown run. The Jag defense looked almost shell-shocked, but they quickly got it together and really competed the rest of the game after making a few adjustments. After forcing one of NCState’s four fumbles of the night, the Jag offense Ma Weaver moved the ball into field goal range The South Alabama Football Team Enters The Field At Saturday’s Game Vs. NCState for kicker Jordan Means to connect line. The Jags chose to run a play runs by South’s Ken Houston, the on the 46 yard field goal, the longest action pass to tight end Kevin Helms. offense was faced with a third and in South’s history, to bring the score Helms was wide open on the play, one situation on NCState’s 30-yard to 7-3 in the first quarter. but quarterback C.J. BenOn the ensuing kick-off, South nett let the pass hang in Alabama’s coaching staff elected to the air too long, and it was try a surprise on side kick. The Jags intercepted by N.C State. had two men in position for a recovLuckily for South, the ery, but an NCState player made the Wolfpack couldn’t do conscious move to just slap the ball much with their turnover out of bounds and took their lead into the and away from half 14-3. the Jags to retain “It’s really disappointing possession. – that stopped our winOn the Wolfning streak. There were pack’s first drive positives and negatives in the second on both sides of the ball,” quarter, USA’s Bennett said. “The defense Burton Scott had great intensity, and forced a fumble the offense had a couple of at the two-yard plays here and there. The line, and Anton offensive line and running Graphenreed backs looked great, and jumped into the we threw the ball around air and recovered a little bit. I felt great with the ball, only my reads. Most of my to get hit as he mistakes were just basic touched the ground and fumbled throwing mistakes, which back to the Wolfpack. The Wolfpack is really encouraging offense, led by Glennon, then ran a because that is something play action pass from the one-yard that I can fix easily. A line for their second touchdown of couple of plays here or the game. there make or break the On the Jags offensive possession ballgame, but we’ll bounce that started with just over nine minMa Weaver back and just see where we utes left in the first half, they were USA Linebacker Jake Johnson Comes Up With The Fumble go.” moving the ball into the Wolfpack’s side of the field again. After multiple

“A couple of plays here or there make or break the ballgame.”

-USA QB C.J. Bennett

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September 19, 2011

Football’s Future S ll Bright Former Jag Oﬀers His Advice Matt Weaver Senior Reporter The mood around campus was pessimistic following South Alabama’s 35-13 loss to North Carolina State at Carter-Finley Stadium on Saturday afternoon. “What am I supposed to do with my ‘Still Undefeated’ T-shirt,” said one student. I suppose our slogan is in need of an update now, isn’t it? That’s not meant to be a slight against the once unbeaten Jaguars, who played above expectations versus their first FBS football program. To quote senior linebacker Jake Johnson, the team played their collective asses off. In fact, I feel better about USA football right now than I ever have before. Not one outsider believed that the Jaguars had a legitimate shot at defeating an FBS opponent in their first attempt and maybe they were right. But those same outsiders also said that South Alabama couldn’t hang with the big boys and this is where the outsiders were wrong. Dead wrong. It could be argued that South Alabama outplayed NC State, out-rushing the Wolfpack 138-127 and nearly matching them in first downs, 19-18. But it was penalties and turnovers that doomed South Alabama, committing nine fouls

for 50 yards and wasting up to three scoring opportunities. Jaguar quarterback CJ Bennett was excellent at reading the pass rush and threw for 182 yards while leading rusher Kendall Houston ran for 117 yards on 18 carries. Said one photographer during the second half, “[Houston] is a pure man; they don’t know what to make of him.” Another performance like this against Kent State and both Houston and his team will come away with a victory and newfound respect. The Jags are that talented. They’re also well-coached and motivated, due to head coach Joey Jones. A coaching staff never anticipates a loss but Jones and company steered the ship in the right direction following the closing seconds of Saturday night’s loss. “Obviously, we didn’t make some plays; we made some mistakes,” Jones said. “But probably five to seven plays in the game; if they go our way then we’re in it.” And if the ball bounces their way against Kent, they’ll finish the job they began on Saturday, defeating an FBS opponent. And they know it. And should the Jaguars take care of business on Saturday, the possibilities for a new slogan are endless. I’ll quote former NFL defensive tackle and wrestling superstar Bill Goldberg when I go with, “Who’s next?”

“Another performance like this against Kent State and the Jags will come away with an FBS victory and newfound respect from the national football community.”

Alex Wiles Sports Reporter Last season, the Jaguar Football Team was lead by an experienced leader who had made history for Jags on several occasions. His list of accomArchive Photo plishments include hauling Courtney Smith in the first ever touchdown in South’s history and leading the team in receptions for both seasons. He was determined to not stop there. Courtney Smith, the wide receiver who found his way to South Alabama through defensive coordinator Bill Clark, made perhaps the biggest history in South’s Football accomplishments by becoming the first player to sign with an NFL team. This offseason, Smith signed with New York Jets and played through Spring Training alongside notable receivers such as Santonio Holmes and Plaxico Burress. Unfortunately, the South Alabama star was released from the team on Aug. 30, during the final cut before the regular season. I had a chance to speak with Courtney about his time with the Jets, the future, and the state of the Jaguars this season. Although his tenure with the

Jets was short-lived, Smith summarized it as, “a great learning experience, and completely different than any other level of football.” During his collegiate career, Smith said that he received more of the 1-on-1 instruction whereas the NFL experience provided him with less personal attention. “It’s a different type of football, because there’s money involved and it’s a business.” Smith is now looking to find a place to showcase his talents, keeping in mind that his ultimate goal is get back to the NFL and make the regular season roster. He has received offers from teams in both the Canadian Football League and the United Football League. He hinted that his destination is most likely the CFL. Whenever a college student makes the jump to become a professional athlete, they go through a unique experience. I asked Smith to give advice to other Jag athletes who might be attempting to break into the professional side of sports. Smith was quick to offer this simple bit of advice stating, “Continue to do what you are doing. Whatever you have done to get you this far has worked.” Smith went on to explain, “People think that you have to go to a big school like LSU to go pro. That’s not true; As long as you go out and do what you have to do then See ADVICE page 19

Fantasy Sports Becoming More Real, Less Fantasy Ryan Franklin Sports Columnist

It’s that time of the year again: football season. NFL and NCAA fans alike are starting to trash talk and stake their claim for their favorite team. You might say football fans are over the top and out of control, but they have nothing on the people who participate in fantasy football. Fantasy football seemed to start off as one of those things where it was a fun little project, but fast forward to 2011, and it has become a phenomenon that is almost as competitive as football itself. According to Fantasy Sports Trade Association, 32 million people ranging from teens to older adults played fantasy sports in North America alone.

When the NFL season was in doubt this year, people who played fantasy football were a nervous wreck. They couldn’t imagine the extra time they would have with no football, and more importantly, no fantasy football. Fantasy players are constantly obsessing over what player they should start and who they can trade to propel them into the playoffs and hopefully into the league champion. People boast and brag about who they have on their roster and how they are going to go undefeated. It’s all fun and games until someone on their roster gets hurt, and they quickly turn

to panic mode. Last year, I witnessed people lose sleep because of quarterbacks Tom Brady and Drew Brees not having 10 more yards or an interception, because it caused them to lose their fantasy game that week. Or non-stop complaints about how Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson should have had one more touchdown even though he had had a sprained ankle during their game against the Washington Redskins. Not only do people lose sleep over

“Instead of texting and driving you can now be contemplating a trade on your fantasy football app.”

fantasy football, they lose friends, money and even significant others. Joining leagues with complete strangers may be the route to go if you are an obsessive player. Starting a league with friends or coworkers is fun until you are within an arm’s length from the guy who won’t trade with you or the guy beating your brains out that week. And with the existence of Smartphones and wireless Internet, fantasy sport obsession has become mobile. Instead of texting and driving you can now be contemplating a trade on your fantasy football app. Just remember the term fan comes from fanatic. So with that being said, are you ready for some fantasy football?

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Vanguard Sports Briefs JAGUAR CROSS COUNTRY RUNS AWAY WITH AZALEA CITY CLASSIC The University of South Alabama men’s and women’s cross country teams each claimed top honors Saturday at the 2011 Azalea City Classic held at Brookley Gulf Pines Golf Course. The host men’s team scored a perfect 15 points to clear second-place Spring Hill by 41 points. William Carey finished third in team standings with 82, followed by Dillard and Mobile, who scored 114 and 117 points, respectively. Justin Housley finished the men’s 8k course second overall and first collegiately, crossing the line in 26:42.88. Following for the Jags were Ronny Wilson (3rd ovr, 4th col, 27:04.36) Alex Shields (4th, 3rd, 27:17.80), Daniel Cooper (5th, 4th, 27:24.01), Robert Mann (6th, 5th, 27:31.61), Brandon Troub (7th, 6th, 28:14.89) and Ian Bordelon (10th, 9th, 29:00.33) - marking seven top-10 Jaguar finishes. The Lady Jags finished with a team total of 22 points, followed by Alabama State (40 pts), Spring Hill (85), Mobile (118), William Carey (130) and Dillard (162). DEFENSIVE BATTLE AT THE CAGE ENDS IN A 2-2 DRAW The University of South Alabama soccer team recorded its first tie of the season, 2-2, after a defensive battle with Morehead State that led to double overtime Friday night at The Cage. “It was a Morehead State style match,” said USA Head Coach Mike Varga. “It was a physical battle, a real stop-and-go, choppy match. It’s not one that we’re comfortable with, but I give our team a lot of credit. We stayed with what we had to do, we found a couple chances to score goals, and we ended up with a draw which is part of the game.” South Alabama’s win streak ends at seven, but the Jags remain unbeaten at home and are now 7-1-1 on the season. Morehead State moves to 4-2-2. MEN’S BASKETBALL OPENS PRESEASON WORKOUTS The University of South Alabama men’s basketball team held its first team workouts of the new season Friday afternoon at the Striplin Practice Facility. Under NCAA rules, teams are not allowed to have more than four players on the court at the same time until Sept. 15. The first official practice will take place Oct. 14. “They’ve been working really hard, getting into shape and doing what they’re supposed to do,” USA Head Coach Ronnie Arrow said. “Today will be the first time we’ve all been together as a group. We’ll see how much they’ve learned during the individual sessions.” The Jaguars focused on their transition offense and teamwork. “We want them to be able to take the drills we ran during 1-on-1 and 2-on-2 and apply them to a 5-on-5 situation,” said Arrow. “It will be more of a team setting today.”

-Wire reports

The No Longer Undefeated Jaguars Jayson Curry Sports Editor The second half opened as the Jags received the kick off after differing on the coin toss to start the game. The Jag offense came out firing again, but the drive was cut short by another interception. C.J. Bennett threw again to Kevin Helms, but the pass was just a bit high and flew through Helms’ hands and into the hands of the NCState safety. The Pack quickly moved the ball after the interception, and Mike Glennon threw his second of 4 touchdowns making the score 21-3 in the third quarter. “We played our asses off the entire game,” USA linebacker Jake Johnson said. “We had our mistakes here and there defensively, myself included. We played a great game but mistakes in big time football kill you. I’m proud of our guys.” South Alabama answered the Pack by driving down the field on their next possession and capped off a six play, 66 yard drive that only took 2:08 to finish and bring the score within 11 points. The Jags then forced another turnover on a fumble and recovered it to bring their offense back onto the field. The momentum was definitely shifting in the game at this time and the Jags needed to seize their opportunity. But as a another penalty hurt the drive, the Jags had to settle for a field goal attempt and Jordan Means missed wide left. The Jaguars’ self-inflicted wounds were absolutely the biggest key for a Jag loss and Pack win in Saturday’s game. The Wolfpack did take advantage of their opportunities though as their offense drove down the field for another touchdown after the

Ma Weaver

USA’s Demetre Baker Drags A Defender Towards The Endzone For USA’s Only TD.

Jag’s missed field goal. The score ing game. Houston finished with 18 by the Pack ended the third quarter rushes for 117 yards. The Jags also with them leading 28-10. beat the Pack in time of possession Starting the fourth quarter, the with 32:45 to the Pack 27:15. And Jags drove the field again on offense, both teams allowed four sacks. but again had to settle for another The biggest difference in the field goal attempt by Jordan Means, contest came from the passing game bringing and penalties. NCthe score State’s Glennon was to 28-13. 19-22 for 297 yards NCState and four touchscored the downs and South’s last points C.J. Bennett was 17of the con32 for 182 yards and test late in two interceptions. the fourth And the penalties quarter finished with South when having 9-50 yards Mike compared to NCGlennon State’s 1-15 yards. USA Safety B.J. Scott threw a The Jaguar 67-yard defense was led pass for by linebacker Jake his fourth and final touchdown of Johnson who finished the game the day. with eight tackles, two for a loss, a The Jaguar’s statistics show how sack and a fumble recovery. Starclose the game really was with just ing Jaguar safety Charles Harris a few plays being the biggest difmatched Johnson’s eight tackles to ference. lead the team. South “They exposed us a little bit on had 18 some things, but that is what footfirst ball is for,” Johnson said. “That’s downs in what we are going to work on the game tomorrow and next week.” comStarting South Alabama free safety pared B.J. Scott had seven tackles during to 19 by the night with one forced fumble, the Pack. and defensive lineman Romelle South Jones only had two tackles. With outboth being sacks, that gave the Pack rushed minus 17 yards. NCState “I just want to say to my team138 to mates, keep your head up and keep 127, led that positive attitude,” Scott said. by Ken “Take on every game like a chamHouspion. ton’s A loss doesn’t define this prosixth cagram.” USA will play away again next Ma Weaver reer 100 or more Saturday as they take on Kent State. USA’s Ken Houston Breaks A Tackle From A NCState Defender. yard rushThe game is at 2:30 central.

“Take on every game like a champion. A loss doesn’t define this program.”

Vanguard Staff Staff editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com

The

Vanguard

September 19, 2011

Distractions

Jag Life- By Ben Lewis

e h t f o e r u t Pic We e k

Weekly Quotable Quote I learned three important things in college - to use a library, to memorize quickly and visually, to drop asleep at any time given a horizontal surface and fifteen minutes. ~Agnes DeMille

Sudoku Challenge Sudoku courtesy of USA Student Health- Phone: 460-7151

Courtesy of Sandra Huynh

The #1 USA Jaguar fan award goes to Sandra Huynh for her red white and blue spirit while on NC State turf! GO JAGS!

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19 Cont. Advice from page 16

it doesn’t matter what school you’re at. I chose to go to South because all I had to do was do what had gotten me there so far.” The fact that the University had just begun their football program enticed Smith to want to come in and prove himself. Seeing as the Jaguars are scheduled to play a couple of schools in the Division-1 FCS this season I asked Smith how he thought his former team would respond to the tougher competition. “I know they are going to do great. I know how hard they work. People at the games don’t see all of the hard work; they only see the finished product. There are long meetings, practices and workouts. Being a new team, we had to work harder to get to where we are now. I’m not saying other teams don’t work hard, but I don’t think work as hard as we do.”

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