August 29, 2011 | Vol. 49 No. 5
“If It Matters to the USA Family, It Matters to Us.”
Visit www.thevanguardonline.com; Find us on Facebook and Twitter
The Scoop on the New GRE
Football Kicks Off Third Season
Shawn Leonard
Contributing Reporter For many college students, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) will be an important part of their post-undergraduate planning. In August, Educational Testing Service (ETS), creators of the GRE General Test, began administering the GRE revised General Test in order to present a more “test-taker friendly” version of the GRE. ETS also said that the new edition would be a better gauge of a student’s preparedness for the thinking required in graduate schools. One change to the GRE is the addition of an extra verbal and math section which will lengthen the overall test time to four hours, making mental stamina an even more important part of preparation for the test. In an effort to ease the experience, ETS has also added navigation arrows which allow test-takers to move forward and backward See GRE page 10
The 2011 Football season begins Thursday when the Jags take on the University of West Alabama Tigers at Ladd Peebles Stadium.
Archive Photo Courtesy of Colin McGee
USA Housing Overflows Carey Cox
Staff Photo
T h e of f icial Ja g Bike Ro ll-O ut Augus t 25
Jag Bikes Roll WEEKLY INSIDER
COPY EDITOR Due to a significant increase in housing applications this semester, some students are being housed at USA Brookley campus. The housing is temporary until rooms open up on the main campus, Dr. Christina Vinet, director of housing, said. “We should have everyone assigned to main campus by the end of next week,” Vinet said. 40 students have been living at Brookley, but half have already been assigned a room on the main campus, Vinet said. Rooms are becoming available through a variety of situations. After recruitment for Greeks,
Remembering Hurricane Katrina: pg. 11 Opinion: pg.13 |
Life: pg. 6
|
Sports: pg. 15
some students move to the Greek houses. Some students decide to withdraw or can’t register for classes, probably due to financial aid. Housing has chartered a bus to bring students to and from campus four times a day, and police are at the Brookley dorms 24 hours a day. Collissa Smith, a freshman nursing student, has been staying at the Brookley campus since Monday. Smith says the only inconvenient part of living there is having to take the bus. “Most people on campus just wake up and go to class. I have to balance bus times and compare it to my schedule,” Smith See OVERFLOW page 9
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August 29, 2011 | The Vanguard
The
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NEWS
August 29, 2011 | The Vanguard
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PoliceBlotter
The
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 Accidents: 25 Criminal Activity Report Compiled from 8/19-8/25 8/10 – Theft of Article from Auto Possessions were reported as missing from a vehicle at 9:02 a.m. at the Rear Parking Entrance of the Nursing College. 8/19 – Breaking and Entering Automobile A suspect was found to have broken into a car at the University Library North parking lot at 5:13 p.m. 8/20 – Illegal Open House Party / Minor in possession of alcohol The Sigma Chi fraternity house was found to have thrown an illegal house party that involved serving alcohol to minors. 8/21 – Theft of Property – Second Degree Possessions were reported as missing from Cleverdon Parkway Building 10 at approximately 6:49 a.m. 8/22 – Domestic Incident A female reported being assaulted by a suspect at
Faculty Court South at approximately 8:23 p.m. 8/23 – Theft of Article from Auto Possessions were reported as missing from a vehicle at 8:23 p.m. at the South Humanities parking lot. 8/24 – Auto Theft A vehicle was reported stolen at the University Library North parking at approximately 9:41 a.m. 8/24 – Robbery First Degree A victim was robbed at the corner of Jack Brunson Dr. and University Blvd. at approximately 10:00 p.m. 8/25 – Providing False Information to Law Enforcement Officers Misleading information was given to South Alabama police officers at the corner of Jack Brunson Dr. and University Blvd. 8/25 – Property Damage Property damage was reported at Greek Row on the Delta Parking Lot at approximately 1:10 p.m.
Special Letter toThe Editor Dr. Jim Connors is as Assistant Professor of Geology. He is also serving actively on Jag Smart, the university committee integrating environmental initiatives at USA.
Dear Vanguard Editor and USA Community, This past week we witnessed Staff Photo a transformative D r. J i m Connors happening at USA: the introduction of Jag Bikes. While we’ve always had a small population of student bikers on campus, South Alabama has never seen anything like this! Suddenly, 280 bicycles were spread all over campus, free for anyone to use. These simple, low-priced, one-speed cruisers were graciously donated to you by an outside benefactor, with the facilitation of President Moulton. They are intended to be a first step on the road to lessening our reliance on automobiles and creating
greener, more bike-friendly campus community. But first steps are usually the hardest, and we’ve already seen many problems with these inexpensive bikes. The handlebars and seats seem to be in need of constant retightening. The new chains stretch and some have jumped off their gear sprockets. Many of the plastic pedals have come apart and some of handlebar grips have slipped off in the summertime humidity and heat. I know for a fact that the Administration is systematically accessing each of these maladies and engineering appropriate solutions, and I am confident that the Jag Bikes will eventually roll reliably. In the meantime, remember that we are in the shakedown phase of a new and innovative program. This is a time when problems immerge and remedies
Corrections
are designed and implemented. Also remember that these are YOUR BIKES! Treat them as such, and insist that your fellow students do the same. This week I’ve seen Jag Bikes ridden down stairs, taken apart, raced indoors, and thrown down in parking lots. I even saw one in a tree! While these acts of neglect and vandalism are occurring, I’m glad to see that they are not the rule. Mostly, I’ve observed happy and grateful students riding Jag Bikes to class or just cruising around campus, having fun. I even witnessed a young man roving around one evening tightening loose handlebars, simply as a service to others! More often than not, I’ve seen the best side of USA during this roll out, and those familiar with me know that I tend to ignore just about everything else
anyway. I also habitually ignore naysayers, and many have come out of the woodwork this past week. I’ve just never had much use for the “I told you so” crowd, or people who fold at the first sign of trouble. Thomas Edison once said, “Our greatest weakness lies in giving up.” The Jag Bikes program is bound to be fraught with initial setbacks. Be prepared for these and be patient, but don’t give up. Considering the enormous efforts we expend to preserve our environment, $3.50 gallons of gasoline thinning our wallets, and imported energy accounting for 65 percent of our nation’s disgraceful trade deficit, we should all support initiatives like Jag Bikes. We need to! Jim Connors, Ph.D., P.G.
The Picture of the Week for the August 22 issue was incorrectly attributed to JagTV, when it was in fact our lovely media relatives over at JagRadio peering over The Vanguard. Our profuse apologies.
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: Nick Griffith DISTRIBUTION Distribution Manager: Johnny Davis ADVERTISING STAFF Advertising Manager: Wesley Jackson Graphic Designer: Brittany Hawkins MANAGEMENT Adviser: James Aucoin Accounting: Kathy Brannan
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August 29, 2011
SGA Notebook for August 29, 2011 The Student Government Association advanced plans to impeach Attorney General Jean Pierre Arditi on Tuesday, Aug. 23rd, but were unable to formally vote on a trial date with only one justice confirmed at the last meeting. Arditi has not yet received evidence of his wrongdoings, something he must be provided in order to prepare a proper defense. The Lowdown also requires evidence to be presented to the Chief Justice and Supreme Court before a trial can be commenced. The charges imply that Arditi improperly used his office to waive parking tickets for an individual, directly bypassing and overriding the authority of Chief Justice Coleman Wolf. Arditi’s defense includes allegations that SGA President Colin Al-Greene pulled favors and appointed a friend, Nick Maxime, to a Senate seat in the College of Business without advertising the position with a campus-wide e-mail. Positions are always supposed to be advertised. Al-Greene responded by saying that, “It’s the right of the president to make appointments to empty positions. They, however, must be approved by the senate.” The annual USA Student Government retreat took place over the weekend of Aug. 21st with members working on parliamentary procedure, appropriations and developing a budget. They also discussed Senate projects for the upcoming year. Icebreakers and activity planning projects were also included. The SGA Senate approved $4,000 for the retreat and only spent $2,800 of their allotted budget.
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The Vanguard’s Weather Forecast: Aug. 29- Sep. 3
Another beautiful start to the school week with mostly sunny skies and highs in the mid 90s. Overnight lows will be around 70°. Starting Wednesday, we will see scattered thunderstorms come in to the forecast and that will last into the weekend. Highs will be in the lower 90s with partly cloudy skies when it’s not raining and overnight lows will be in the low 70s during mid week. For the weekend, we will still see scattered thunderstorms with partly cloudy skies when it’s not raining. Highs will be in the mid 90s and overnight lows will be in the lower 70s. 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 Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/stormteam4g9wx and follow Patrick at twitter.com/metwxpatrick Courtesy of Student Meteorologist Patrick Bigbie
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Life
Weekly Lowdown
college 101: Quick Tips
Monday, August 29 Jaguar Production Board Meeting 5:00 p.m. in Room 1369 of the Academic Support Center (old Rec Center) “Open to all students.”
Tuesday, August 30 Jaguar Football Pep Rally 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at Moulton Tower and Alumni Plaza “Open to the community!”
Wednesday, August 31 Fall Greek Informational 6:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. in the Humanities building Hosted by the National Pan-Hellenic Council Welcome Block Party 6:00 p.m.– 9:00 p.m. on Epsilon I lawn “Music, Food, Tshirts, Games!” Cosponsored by RHA and Army ROTC
Thursday, September 1 The South “Jaguar Prowl” 4:00 p.m. at Ladd-Peebles Stadium South Alabama Football Kicks Off vs. West Alabama! 6:30 p.m. at Ladd-Peebles Stadium
Want your event featured? E-mail 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. E-mails must be received at least seven days before the event.
August 29, 2011
Bailey Hammond, Life Editor life.editor@usavanguard.com
Java City Hours Updated Bailey Hammond
LIFE EDITOR Throughout the centuries, coffee has come to be a drink of choice not only for the elite, but also for the common masses. College students in particular are fond of the beverage, as it not only gives them that boost to study into the wee hours of the morn, but it also can taste so darn good. USA currently offers two places for students to get their fix: Einstein Bros Bagels at the Allied Health building and Java City at the dining facility near the dorms. The Daily Grind is no longer a central campus option, as the Student Center is under construction and will not reopen until next year. However, students are limited in the hours that they can take advantage of the places that are open. Or at least, they were. Java City started out this semes-
Staff Photo Java City is one of two on-campus options for coffee.
ter with restricted hours during the week. Monday through Thursday, students could get coffee or other beverages at Java City from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and on Fridays only until 1:00 p.m. The Vanguard recently sat down with Craig Stephan, food service director for the University of South Alabama, and he admitted that the hours would have to change. “I knew that the times [for Java City] might have to be adjusted,
and just in this first week we’ve seen that students come in later than we’d originally predicted. There are slow times, but it won’t hurt us to have Java City stay open later,” Stephan said. “I want to be able to serve the most students, with the best service possible. It’s why we have a policy of listening and wanting feedback from the students,” Stephan told The Vanguard. Stephan added, “We’re always looking for ways to keep things interesting. If we can make things better, we’re going to try to make it happen.” Having an open relationship with the student body is important to Stephan, and he welcomes any feedback that students may have and encourages open discussions. There is a Feedback Form on the Dining Services website, so don’t hesitate to drop them a line. Stephan tentatively suggested that the hours for Java City may be lengthened to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and until See Java page 7
Movie Review: ‘Fright Night 3D’ Jake Howell
SECTION WRITER Editor’s Note: As with all reviews, there is a potential for spoilers, and any opinons are solely those of the author.
When I decided to see “Fright Night,” a remake of the 1985 film of the same name, I figured it would fall into line with other head-splitting 3D movies or recent vampire movies that left much to be desired (cough, “Twilight”). As it turns out, “Fright Night” didn’t fit into either. It was actually pretty good. The gist of the film is this: Newly popular teenager Charley Brewster (Anton Yelchin), figures out that his new neighbor, Jerry Dandrige (Colin Farrell), is a vampire. After his ex-best friend, Edward
“Evil Ed” Lee (Christopher MintzPlasse) goes missing, he enlists the help of Las Vegas magician/vampire expert, Peter Vincent (David Tennant), to kill his neighbor and prevent more death. How noble. The beginning of the film is the messiest in terms of structure and flow. We’re basically thrown into this world with little to no backstory to guide us. The backstory that is included is tossed into the movie only when it is unavoidable, and, even then, it’s painfully bare. A prime example of this is when Peter Vincent reveals that his IMDb.com parents were killed by a vampire, Fright Night features vampires, teenagers, who, surprise, surprise, turns out hunters and some good old 3D action. to be Jerry. See Fright page 8
August 29, 2011
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Vanguard Life
New Music Festival Comes to Mobile Lance Wilkinson
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
It’s safe to say that music festivals are back. In spirit of the rapid resurgence of interest in the American music festival, Mobile presents its newest festival, LoDa Live, on September 10, 2011, on Lower Dauphin Street. The multi-venue event will feature promising new acts from Mobile, Birmingham, Pensacola, Jackson, and New Orleans. In addition to gaining notoriety for many of the Southeast’s finest young acts, event coordinators aspire for LoDa Live to be a music festival the Southeast can call its own. “We wanted to get the best up and coming Southeastern bands in one place to connect them with the region’s public,
media, venues, and record labels. There is no other exclusively ‘Southeast Music Festival’ to our knowledge,” co-organizer Dr. Ted Flotte said. As well as promoting public interest in local bands, the festival is coordinated with Mobile Bay Remembers: 9-1111 Tenth Anniversary and net proceeds will be donated to the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which benefits the children of lost firefighters and military. Bands participating in LoDa Live, whose name is derived from its location, will perform on the main stage, which will be set up in Cathedral Square, and on the stages in various venues along Dauphin Street. Participating venues include: Serda’s, The Blind Mule, OK Bicycle Shop, The Brickyard and Callaghan’s Irish Social Club.
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Handsome Scoundrels, The Suzies, Underhill Family Orchestra and Vulture Whale. With Fishbowl Records, the Downtown Mobile Alliance, and Emily Hayes of 92 ZEW-FM all working together, LoDa Live is sure to be alive with music, mingling and Staff Photo plenty of local Music descends on Mobile September 10 as LoDa Fest flair. has its inauguration. Wristbands, Bands booked to perform optional at some include: Lee Bains III & The venues, are only $10, and they Glory Fires, Coyotes, Gregg are available the day of the Fells, Jesse Payne, Paloma, festival at Cathedral Square Lane Fisher, Johnny Appleand all venues. Eyes, Morris Minor, Sun Hotel, Callooh! Callay!, The
Opinion: Why One Environmental Wr i t e r H a t e s t h e Wo r d ‘ G r e e n ’ Jeffrey Gill
ENVIRONMENTAL WRITER “Green” has become the ubiquitous badge of the environmental movement. It provokes images of trees and recycling arrows. I have come to loathe the use of the word “green,” because it is a far too simplified statement of what is needed from us as a society to correct the havoc humans have wreaked. The sad fact is that as the trend rises, there will be those using it for profit, no matter what topic: your energy needs, your organic/ local foods and your hemp clothing. It’s all a part of this phenomenon called “greenwashing.” Greenwashing is “the act of misleading consumers regarding the environmental practices of a company or the environmental benefits of a product or service,” according
to sinsofgreenwashing.org. they were subtle about it, but the This is more than a pet peeve; it purity of their process seems to be is a disgust of mine directed at the the only marketable thing about companies who follow a trend be- Simply Orange. cause it is profitable, not because it Many fads contribute to the “greis ethical. BP once marketed itself enwashed” ideals of the present. as “Beyond P e t r o leum,” for instance. You may have seen those weird green and y e l l o w toned commercials with the driving babies and whistling gas pumps? That’s BP’s verlornali.com/green sion of greenwashing. “ S i m p l y The whole world is going green, but what about the other colors? Orange” is a company that prides itself on attention to The issue of sustainability is making orange juice out of orang- far more complex than wearing es, because it’s a popular trend. a cheesy shirt with a mention of It wouldn’t bug me so much if “going green” on it.
The environmental movement needs more than cute non-sweatshop-manufactured clothes and TOMS. Environmental progress is not a fashion statement. As an alternative, we could follow Dirty Jobs’ Mike Rowe in his effort to “go brown.” It is a fact of life that nothing becomes “green” without growing up from the dirt and detritus beneath us. Even though it is also an oversimplified version of the issues, it symbolizes hard work and progress built by your own hands, rather than expecting others to make it cheap and available, as green marketing conveys. As a challenge, I hope you can find five examples of the greenwashing and green marketing trend in your daily life—today! Look closer at your window cleaner, or your beer case, or your gas station; it is everywhere. Be aware of greenwashing, and hate it with me. Going green has to actually mean something to make a difference.
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Fright
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The casting was excellent, however, especially in regards to Farrell and Tennant. Tennant is hilarious and steals the show whenever he’s onscreen. The 3D and special effects were also nicely done. Normally, I despise 3D, but its use in “Fright Night” played up the horror movie gore and scares much to my enjoyment. The opening thunder cloud scene was pretty wicked as well, though it was a bit short. Even the slightly funny transformation from human-like vampire to all-out, it’s time to eat, vampire only added to the movie’s appeal. As Evil Ed says in the movie, “He’s not broody or lovesick... he’s the shark from ‘Jaws’!” The movie also marks a return to the traditional vampire mythology, including death by sunlight, staking through the heart, and being burned by Holy Water. It was actually kind of refreshing. I must say, though, I laughed out loud when Charley bursts into Jerry’s house looking like a ghost buster in his flame retardant suit. All in all, “Fright Night” isn’t a horror movie. It’s more of a thriller/action movie with a dash of comedy that isn’t for those who dislike the campy gore of 80’s horror flicks. Finally, a vampire that doesn’t sparkle.
Java
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3:00 p.m. on Fridays. Also, the area where students can sit and relax with their beverages of choice is going to get an artwork makeover. So, if you’re in the vicinity in the coming weeks, stop by Java City to see the changes. Interested in writing for The Vanguard Life section? Shoot an e-mail to life.editor@ usavanguard.com, subject heading “Write,” and start on your path to greatness!
August 29, 2011
How to stretch your dollar Bailey Hammond LIFE EDITOR
It’s a fact: most college students don’t have an abundance of cash. Most of us are lucky to get by on money we get from our parents or what we can scrounge up working minimum wage jobs around campus. The Seattle Times reports that nationwide, undergraduate students average $208 a month for discretionary spending and 66 percent of college students get money from home each month. When it comes down to spending money, most of us have the practice down to an art. Books, paper, ink, coffee to fuel our study binges, pens and highlighters of all hues, plus the pretty things that we have to have for our dorms—all of it is a drain on our wallets, and often it seems like there is no end to the amount of stuff that we need in order to go to class or simply exist. One trip to get textbooks for five classes can leave your credit card in shock, cueing your mother’s frantic phone call about, “Just WHAT did you BUY?” Here are a few tips to help you make that buck stretch farther and keep those ‘rents off your back about credit scores. Shop around for the best prices. While the campus bookstore offers a great selection of some cool merchandise, often it is the smaller bookstores that can cut you the best deal. Sometimes they may not have the books you need though, so there’s
Bailey Hammond
‘Penny for your thoughts’ takes on a new meaning when all you have in your pockets are pen nies.
that to consider. Also, looking online for those textbooks is good if you’re into planning ahead. It’s easy to find the ISBN number for the books you need for class on the Bookstore’s website, and once you have those, you can get the books you need online. Easy peasy. Use your meal plan. If you’re staying on campus, you are required to have a meal plan. It just makes sense to take advantage of something that you’ve already paid for. If by the end of the week you haven’t used all of your meals, perhaps you need to stop going to McDonald’s or Five Guys, because, while those places are yummy, they cost you money out of pocket. You might want to spend that money on tickets to Bayfest.
Look for discounts. A lot of the local stores, shops, and restaurants offer discounted prices for students, so just be sure to ask if you go somewhere. You might be surprised how much you can save. For example, Brunos offers a 5 percent discount to students on Mondays, just be sure to have your student ID. They also have a gas token program. For every $50 you spend, you earn a token. Earn 10 tokens and you get a free $25 Shell gift card. This is going on until November 1. Check out Jaguar Productions for entertainment news and discount tickets. There’s always something going on, and these guys and gals can help with the cash aspect. Sometimes, there might be an event going on that’s free. There are always events that happen right here on campus, ranging from free food to big name entertainers. Last year, Grant Imahara from Mythbusters came to the Mitchell Center. As a result of the college experience, most people regard the years spent eating Ramen as a trial by fire. It’s a time in people’s lives that either makes or breaks them. Learning how to deal with money responsibly is just one more lesson that we all must learn. While some of these tips may seem like no-brainers, sometimes it helps to be reminded of your options when the wallet woes start to knock on your dorm door.
Biking tips for USA students Cassie Fambro and Bailey Hammond
This list is brought to you in part by nhsta.gov and is adapted to apply to USA.
1. Protect yourself. Watch out for other bikers, some of them don’t know how to actually ride a bike. 2. Make sure your bicycle is ride-worthy, i.e. carry a wrench with you to tighten any pesky loose bolts (or handlebars.) 3. Check the brakes. Do this before you head down that hill and straight for the cross-walk where JagTrans grumble past every two minutes. It may be more than your hair flying if those brakes fail. 4. See and be seen. Just because you can see that pedestrian in front of you does not mean he or she can see you. If you both go left when you though he or she would go right, well, it won’t be
pleasant to say the least. 5. Avoid biking at night. If you lack the ability to glow in the dark, we can’t see you and that’s NOT GOOD. If you must form a Super Awesome Bicycle Gang, do so in the daylight. That way we can actually appreciate your syncronised biking, if we so choose. 6. Stay alert for obstacles. Let’s face it, people are dumb and they leave stuff laying around where just anyone can accidentally ride into it and hurt themselves. For example, bike pedals or hub caps. 7. Go with the flow. The right way is always the right way, no matter what you may think to the contrary. There is a reason for the bicyle lane and the sidewalk. It’s where you ride the bikes. The
road is for cars. 8. Check for traffic. This goes hand in hand with numbers 3 through 7. People on bikes do not fare well in collisions with cars, trucks, other bicyclists, pedestrians or JagTrans. As my favorite Auror once said, “Constant vigilance!” 9. Learn the rules of the road. Traffic laws are there for a reason, and you should follow them. Survival of the fittest comes to mind, no? 10. Don’t flip over your bicycle. This means that you should make sure your wheels are wellfastened, and not completely detached. It’s kind of hard to ride with no wheels.
August 29, 2011
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Overflow from page 1
USA Alumni Owned and Operated
said. Even with the addition of a new dorm, housing is still almost packed to capacity. “While it’s nice that students are interested in coming to South, interested in living on campus, it certainly has been a concern and is part of the reason why we opened the new building. We added about almost 300 beds to the system this last year. We are still surprised when we have as many people still requesting housing as we did,” Vinet said. “We are looking at potential plans to continue to add beds to campus to help with this problem,” Vinet said. “We think it’s important that students live on campus and not in an apartment setting their first year. One of the reasons for the new building with the living learning communities and faculty and residents is to try to give the students more access to academics. Being on campus and living with a roommate, and getting to know lots of people is an important part of student development and student growth and getting connected to the University,” Vinet said. “We’re fortunate we had it open as an option. A lot of the students down there are not able to commute. If we didn’t have the option for them, a lot of them would not have been able to go to school,” Vinet said. 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.
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Cont. GRE from page 1
through a section to change or review their answers. The revised GRE’s math section will also feature an on-screen calculator to help reduce the time it takes to perform more tedious computations. Another change to the GRE’s format is the switch to “section adaptive” thinking rather than the original “question adaptive” style. When taking the older GRE version, a correct answer would prompt the computer to increase the difficulty of the following question, resulting in a higher scoring potential for that question. The revised GRE, however, applies this process to an entire section of the test rather than individual questions, meaning test-takers will no longer be able to devote more time to the first few questions in hopes of receiving higher overall scores. Recent test-taker Danielle Maley said this change mainly had an impact on her confidence going into the test. “There was a level of comfort with the old test, in knowing that I had some control over the weight of upcoming questions,” said Maley. “By taking more time on the first
few questions, I could avoid being stuck with lower valued questions for the rest of the section.” Most of the revised GRE’s content changes are found in the verbal sections. The new version no longer uses analogies or antonyms and instead places emphasis on the use of words in context. The new questions will also require test-takers to pick multiple correct answers for many of the selections given in order to receive any credit. Christopher Lele, an instructor with Magoosh Online Test Prep, said the revised verbal section will require test-takers to use a more analytical style of reading and, unlike the old test, places far less importance on vocabulary memorization. While it is too early to determine the overall impact of the changes, ETS believes the new GRE will give the best account of a student’s ability to compete on the graduate level. For more information about the GRE revised General Test or to register for testing students can visit www.ets.org/gre.
August 29, 2011
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August 29, 2011
Hurricane Katrina’s Sixth Anniversary Emergency responders are stepping up to volunteer their time instead of being paid while the city continues to struggle As a sophomore in high and recover. school, I remember being out of The national image of the school for a month when what storm is New Orleans, and the we coasties call “The Storm” hit. dilapidated and destitute remI remember that landmarks nants of what was a city of soul were gone, to many. the blue The New house Orleans where you newspaper turned The Times to get to Picayune school was says that a slab. I residents had to exrecently plain to my took a perlittle brothsonal interer than his est in the kindergarpeople in ten classthe path of mate was Hurricane never comIrene. ing back. Many Biloxi, Mississippi lost one of its main bridges, Looking hampering traffic for many months. residents back, it isn’t reached out, the magnitude of the destrucimploring the residents of New tiont that strikes me, it’s the York and low-lying coastal arimpact that it’s had regionally. eas to retreat. Waveland, Mississippi just cut It’s better safe than sorry, they its police force, citing Katrina said with knowing eyes. related expenses to this day, acThe National Atmospheric cording to The Sun Herald. and Oceanic Administration Cassie Fambro and Genny Roman
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The impact of a devestating (NOAA) estimated the cost of storm has served to give coastal Hurricane Katrina to be $125 residents an increased vigilance billion. and compassion for storm vicNOAA states that Hurricane tims. Katrina’s storm surge caused The Hattiesburg American the most damage to Mobile, “inudating” Mobile Bay with an states that Hurricane Katrina claimed 1,800 lives on that day excess of water and surpassing in 2005. barriers built to prevent stormIt goes surge. on to say Honors what many Biology Juresidents nior Sandra still feel, Hunyh says that there Hurricane is a “deep Katrina emotional “absolutepain” in ly” made theirmemher stronories. ger and The lesmore apson learned preciative is to take of life and extra cauthe necessition in the ties. event of a “The part Dauphin Island suffered storm surge damage on that really August 29, 2005. Hurricane Katrina is remem- storm, and remember stayed with bered across the entire Gulf Coast. what the me was livNew Orleans residents warned ing without power and experithose in the path of Hurricane encing real food competition.” Irene. Many coastal residents were Better safe than sorry. forced to live off of military meals, canned water and sparse goods.
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August 29, 2011
Letter toThe Editor A call to investigate an inconvenience Editor’s Note: We will be doing a follow-up story on this topic for this student and investigate what steps are being taken to resolve this. Dear Editor,
Havard and he was very cordial and seemed to empathize with my There are relatively few things concerns. that make me truly angry. Misuse He outright asked me what he of important resources is one of could do to improve my residence those things. hall experience and we discussed I fully realize that exacting options with laundry, including change within any beaurocratic opening the Central Housing Oforganization like a university can fice during the day. be difficult, but there comes a This never happened, so I just point to where inaction becomes continued to wait until 8 p.m., negligence. when the Central Housing Office Throughout my academic opened, to do my laundry. career at the University of South This year, with so many new Alabama, I have lived on campus, students on campus and a new resboth in Delta 1 and Delta 5. idence hall opening, the residence Each year that I choose to live in hall area has been utter chaos. the dorms proves more disastrous Though I was reluctant about than the last, and this year seems living in the Delta 5 residence hall to be the culmination. The addition again solely due to the laundry of Stokes Hall to the workload of issue, I thought that perhaps with the Department of Housing seems a new residence hall opening, to have severely strained the intel- some of the high traffic in the surligence and common sense of its rounding laundry rooms might be workers. relieved somewhat. I have always had an issue with No such luck. On top of everylaundry in the residence halls. thing, since the Central Housing While living in Delta 1, the major- Office has moved to Stokes Hall, ity of the machines either didn’t the laundromat in that building is work correctly or didn’t work at no longer accessible at all on the all. weekends and only during the day Coupled with this fact and the on weekdays. tremendous number of residence I have a huge problem with this. hall students needing to use the Even though Delta 5 residents machines, the chances of encounare paying the same amount if tering a “good” machine were not more than other surrounding quite low. residence halls, yet we have to I quickly learned there are certrudge to other residence halls to tain hours that you do and do not do laundry, despite the fact that attempt to do laundry. Despite my there is a laundromat right in front complaints, I kept quiet. Last year, of our building. I moved into a private dorm in This is a serious case of misused Delta 5. resources. The way I see it, the Like many people, I had no idea R.A. on duty can just as easily be that Delta 5 does not have a launon call at the Central Area Ofdry room built into it like many of fice, like they were accustomed to the other dorms. doing in the past, as Stokes Hall, Those that live there must do where they are currently. laundry in the Central Housing Doing so would give both Delta Office (the building containing 5 and surrounding residence hall the Delta Deli), or choose to walk residents access to those resources to one of the other dorms that do in the building. have a laundry room. Although I have not officially When I noticed that the Delta filed a complaint with the Central Area Office was not open during Housing Office, I have spoken the day on the weekends, I began with someone in that office and to get extremely frustrated. Most when I made my concerns apparbusy students like me, who only ent, she seemed very much like she have time to do laundry once a neither had the time nor energy week usually on the weekends, to take my concerns seriously; she found this extremely inconvewas both rude and unsympathetic. nience, so I decided to act. I would certainly like to see this Specifically, I sent an e-mail to change for myself and other stuthe Department of Housing exdents affected by this major inconpressing my frustration and was venience. contacted some days later by the Business Manager, Mike Havard. Sincerely, I went in for a meeting with Mr. Chase Krebs
Opinion
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Visit www.thevanguardonline.com
OUR VIEW EDITORIAL BOARD >>editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com
STAFF EDITORIAL Cassie Fambro | Editor-in-Chief Genny Roman | Associate Editor Imran Mohiuddin | Opinion Editor
Matt Weaver | Senior Reporter Bailey Hammond | Life Editor Jayson Curry | Sports Editor
SGA Needs to Unify SGA has already demonstrated that it’s fundamentally unsound, and it’s not even two weeks into the semester. Tension has already exploded in the forefront, with accusations flying and a possible impeachment looming already. The Lowdown is not being regarded, with justices not even being sworn in for the impeachment process as mandated. The meetings thus far held have shown obvious disrespect for Robert’s Rules of Order, with formaility being disregarded. If the SGA is our elected body and handling thousands of dollars that we contribute in student fees, they should be setting an example that embodies professionalism and seriousness. Several members of the SGA officers have shown a committment toward progress, with one reportedly calling out the senate for being overly flippant during the SGA Retreat. This behavior is not acceptable in a setting that has $4,000 in student fees budgeted to
form a more cohesive SGA. We commend the SGA for saving money on the retreat and only spending $2,800 of it, which shows at least an effort to cut costs. However, it was still $2,800 for a one-night retreat in Gulf Shores. In a time where tuition is up, it’s harder to get a job, and financial aid is tight, it doesn’t show good faith in the student body to spend the night doing “icebreakers” with each other on the beach. We would much rather see them in a conference room on campus, hashing out the issues, and we’d rather have that $2,800 allocated to the students. There is a lot of potential in this SGA, with a unique fusion of personalities and academic backgrounds. It would be a shame to see the year become a never-ending squabbling match between members. Unify, SGA, and set an example for those you represent.
Musings on Anticipation: Is it Worth it? Bailey Hammond
LIFE EDITOR Anticipation. It’s killing me. Patience? Bah humbug. If I hear that word one more time, I might tear some wellmeaning person’s head off and induct them into the Headless Hunt. If you’re wondering why I sound a tad miffed (and ‘tad’ is somewhat of an understatement), let me set you at ease. Pottermore. (See pottermore.com for an explanation.) However, I’m not here to discuss my love of Harry Potter, at least not this time. Let’s talk about expectations, shall we? We all have them, it’s hard not to. If you didn’t have any expectations, I dare say you might not be alive. Even zombies expect to catch
a person every once in a while, or else they’d just stop chasing people. The thing about expectations that drives most people bonkers is sometimes the expectations in our lives are not ones that we have for ourselves. Sometimes it is the expectations of our parents, friends, boy/girlfriends, teachers or bosses that creep into our lives and wreak havoc with our minds. It’s become almost a cliché these days for teenagers to rebel against the expectations of their parents, get a piercing, maybe even a tattoo, and flaunt said rebellions in their faces. I see it all the time on ABC Family, so much so that I’ve taken to not watching that channel. But here’s the rub: in order to actually make anything of your life, you’re going to have to meet some expectations, whether they
are your own or those of someone else. If your parents expect you to go to college, fine, that’s in your best interest anyway. If your boss expects you to show up for work on time, awesome, you get paid and money makes the world go round. If your teachers expect you to pay attention and come to class, spectacular, you make good grades. Those are a whole bunch of win-win situations up there, but for some reason, I always seem to hear people complaining about how those expectations aren’t “fair” or “fun” or something equally selfish. And that is what it all comes down to in the end. Are you going to go through life shirking responsibility and expectations in order to be a selfish butthead? If so, fine, I can’t stop you, but ask yourself this: is it worth it?
13 Jag Voice What do you think of Jag Bikes? The Jag Bikes are an excellent idea in theory, but I don’t think it is practical on our campus. With a few changes I’m sure it will be running well. Caitlin Glenn Senior Chemsitry
I think they are convenient, maybe even a good idea... but with terrible execution, they are laying everywhere in disrepair and susceptible to getting stolen. Michael Brown Sophmore Meteorology
I think that with the growing campus they are a good move to reducing the traffic on campus as the parking is starting to fill up fast. Shey Garan Junior Chemistry
They are a nice convenience to anyone traveling through campus, especially those who may not want to move their cars. Michael Faralli Sophmore Chemistry
I think Jag Bikes are a good concept, but the bikes they purchased are cheap and many have broken already in the first week. Travis Miller Sophmore Meteorology
The Vanguard’s Facebook page is also conducting its own poll.
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The
Vanguard Opinion
Point Counterpoint
August 29, 2011
Editor’s Introduction: In recent years, social networking websites have exploded,
becoming the number one past time for millions of people on the net. As these websites become more popular, concerns over privacy and safety have led many to shutdown their profiles. Still, others feel that the benefits exceed the risks , and that these sites are here to stay. The P/CP explains.
They keep us together
Too artificial to be worthwhile
actually arriving. Being With communication Facebook: The worldwhen you delete them and the only person from becoming more digitized in the last are the only ones that wide sensation that once my high school to attend normal life, social networkknow more than your name. was just for reconnecting USA this year, I knew ing is gaining incredible Next, Facebook is unwith old friends is now a very few people when I momentum, enabling doubtedly distracting. social networking monster, arrived at orientation, but encouraging drama, stalkusers to interact across the Whether it be getting cyber that all changed because globe in previously unbullied, addicted to adding ing, online bullying and of Facethinkable ways. pigs to your online farm, or weak forms book. Websites like Facebook seeing those brainless whores of commuAfter and Twitter grow in popuyour ex is “dating,” Facebook nication. meeting larity each day, proving Eva is counterproductive for sucAs that a few that people love to share cess in academic or profesbeloved Arslan Osilla people and their daily lives with their sional settings, no matter physics law exchanging friends. Arshad who you are. says of entropy—evFacebook inHowever, like with most We’re all human and will all get erything degenerformation at oriengood things, there are risks associdistracted, angry or hurt. Soon ates toward greater tation, I made some ated with social networking use, enough, your piglets, corn husks, disorder. Sure, the friends that I was especially to privacy. Nevertheless, with proper security measures able to communicate finding out about that ugly blonde concept of Facebook with for the rest of and some basic common sense, the skank with the fake tan or the hurt was gold and Zuckthe summer and the dangers of social networking sites felt when you’re bashed in front of erberg knew what current school year. are minimal and the benefits are the world will make you sick and he was doing. The thing that tremendous. make you almost fail your physics From a business makes social netFor example, consider the value exam when physics is your forte. standpoint, it’s a working so success- Logo courtesy of facebook.com of social networking websites durObviously, that’s not good. win-win situation: People are growing concerned with the ful is the ease at ing breaks like summer vacation. Lastly, Facebook is a weak form make 15 billion growing role of social networks College brings people from all over which information of communication. Since when was dollars and memcan be shared and the state and country together durfriendship “liking” statuses and bers make 15 the lightness of the communication. ing the school year, but this changbillion “friends.” Happy day, right? creeping on family pictures? It takes only a second to like es once exams end. Instead of commenting “like Not really. First, who personally somebody’s status or write on their Traditionally, communication OMG it’s been 4ever, we MUST knows 500 to 1000 people? wall, but these actions still demongrinded to a halt once students catch up!!!!” (which you never do), If you meet someone once and strate a level of care . went home for the summer, with meet for lunch and then actually don’t mind revealing everything Even though it’s inevitable that only the occasional phone call or about your life to them, you should catch up. It’s more genuine than a we will hear stories of identities letter to stay in touch. Nowadays wall post and doesn’t take much though, social networking websites stolen because of Facebook or about really work on your trust issues. allow for relationships to transition cyberbullies that preyed upon viceffort. “OMG, see my 749 closest seamlessly into the summer, allow- tims through wall posts, these cases Reaching out to people in more friends, my list is bigger than yooing for friends to remain in constant are far from common. meaningful ways might make this ours” is ridiculous. Let’s be real, After all, with over 500 million communication no matter where world more meaningful, and in sweetie—195 just stalk you, 309 unique users on Facebook, and 150 they are. such a heartbreakingly cruel socidon’t remember who you are, 238 million on Twitter, something must Likewise, social networking ety, that’s surely what we need. are people you barely remember be working. websites give users the opportufrom high school who start drama nity to scope out new places before
Imran Mohiuddin Opinion Editor
Pushing Boundaries Things are certainly looking up
A feeling that a heat stroke is right around the corner, as the sun beats down upon you. All these forces came into play in an attempt to kick this year off to a miserable start, but none of them were enough to keep this year’s outlook from being optimistic. Returning to school last week, I immediately noticed that USA is still undergoing a massive a transformation, and it doesn’t look like it will cease anytime soon.
These changes seem so radical when considering the university’s history and how far development has come. Established only in 1964, USA is still a fledgling in the Alabama collegiate scene, with Auburn and UA both being more than a hundred years older. At its inception, South Alabama was aimed primarily for local residents and commuter students, but recently it has grown enough to draw attention from students across the country and the globe. One look at the new Stokes Residence Hall is all it takes to see that the winds of change are gusting through South Alabama’s campus. Juxtaposed against the aging Deltas, Stokes looks dazzling, the kind of picturesque dorm you’d see in a movie. With private rooms, hardwood flooring and
brand new appliances, it will definitely play a huge role in drawing in perspective students. Another huge innovation that left me pleasantly surprised was the redrawing of the JagTran routes. I’m sure by now even the freshman have heard their fair share of JagTran horror stories, learning how the bus system could turn a two minute drive around the circle, into a 20 minute expedition across campus. This year, things are different with the JagTran, and the once cripplingly slow public transit system is now a viable way of moving across campus. Green line, the route responsible for shuttling students from the residential area to the academic area, has been streamlined making the journey considerably faster. In fact, there’s now only one stop
between the Student Center and the cafeteria. Also, the addition of the Jag Smart program proves just how progressive USA has become in recent years. USA’s ability to invest resources into preserving the environment proves that our school is thriving and that the administration isn’t struggling to stay afloat like at some other public universities. USA is on the fast track to becoming one of state’s foremost universities and we have access to things that previous graduates never would have dreamed of. Even though we may grumble about numerous small problems this school year, things are undeniably getting better for students, and we really shouldn’t forget that.
Jayson Curry Sports Editor
Sports.editor@usavanguardcom
Sports
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August 29, 2011
Soccer
Lady Jags Dominant In 4-1 Victory Jacie-Blaire Chandler Sports Reporter South Alabama soccer headed to Montgomery Friday to play a match against Alabama State. The Lady Jags arrived in Montgomery ready to play. Clarissa Hernandez struck the first goal eight minutes into the match with an assist by Brandi Smith. Hernandez later reversed the roles of the previous USA goal by assisting Smith in the 59th minute for the Jags second goal. Landi Wilson put a third goal in the net from a cross with 6 minutes remaining in the match. But that wasn’t good enough for the Lady Jaguars. With 6.2 seconds left in the match Wilson landed her second goal of the game. The Lady Jags did give up one goal in the match in the 79th minute, but that seemed to spark the last two goals scored by USA. USA dominated shots in the game by racking up 21 shots compared to Alabama State’s eight. South also dominated defensively by keeping the ball out of the defensive half for the majority of the game. “We still have a lot to improve on, but I am pleased with our play tonight,” coach Mike Varga said. “We dominated the match. It was unfortunate that we gave up a goal late, but we responded with two of our own.” The team has gained confidence and composure so far in the season. They have been devoting practices to improving their possession, speed of play and intensity, which seems to have really paid off. Determined to set new records and reach their goals, the ladies have committed themselves to working hard and staying disciplined and focused throughout the season. The Jags are now 2-1 on the season and are looking keep their momentum going.
Who To Watch: 2011 Jaguar Offense Alex Wiles Sports Reporter Due to their unheard of 17 consecutive victories, the South Alabama football team has received a great deal of support from the student body. Students are proud of their school’s dominance through the first two years of existence. But with all of their success, it begs the question, how on earth do most students not even know the names of their own team’s key players? If you can name every player and coach from your favorite NFL team, it seems appropriate that you recognize the Jags’ playmakers as they work to keep the loss column clean yet again in 2011. In preparation for this week’s matchJayson Curry up, we provide a way for the caJayson Curry sual fan to learn about the players USA Runningback Demetre Baker USA Starting Quarterback C.J. Bennett they cheer for week to week. year at Georgia, he was highly OFFENSIVE PLAYMAKERS recruited out of high school be QB - #15 C.J. Bennett – As ing named a High School Allthe season opens, the Jags look American by PrepStar magazine to Redshirt Freshman C.J. Benand Earning four stars from nett to lead the veteran offense. Scout.com. Look for Baker to spell But do not let him being listed a Houston and provide the Jags freshman fool you – Bennett has with a worthy 1-2 punch out of the experience leading the team and backfield. looks to build on what he began WR - #8 Bryant Lavender – No last season. Bennett, like many of one will replace the presence that the other contributors, keeps his WR Courtney Smith had on the freshman status due to the Jags field last season, but a hungry status as a new program. In 2010, corps of receivers looks to do their Bennett split time at QB but still managed to throw for 1,189 yards, best to provide options in the passing game. Lavender had 16 renine touchdowns, and only two ceptions for 276 yards last season interceptions. After starting the while starting every game, but he last three games of 2010, Bennett looks to increase those numbers enters the season as the starting with the departure of Smith to the QB for the Jaguar Offense. NFL. RB - #29 Kendall Houston – Jayson Curry WR - #11 Jereme Jones – StandAfter previous starter Brandon ing at only 5’8”, Jones utilizes USA Runningback Ken Houston Ross was injured, many wondered whether Ross’ contributions to the quickness to be an asset in the slot position of the offense. Jones providing them with a reliable team could be replaced. Houston will also look to return on both target at the tight end position. quickly answered the question kickoffs and punts. Like Houston, Look for Bennett to make his most and hasn’t looked back. A local significant contribution in the runhigh school standout, Houston led Jones is a local high school standout from McGill-Toolen and has ning game, as his 6’, 240 lb. frame the team with 891 yards rushing made contributions to the offense allows running lanes to open. and 10 touchdowns. Last season since arriving on campus last fall. TE - #12 Kevin Helms – No less he posted five 100-yard rushing Jones ranked third on the team in significant than Bennett, Kevin games, highlighted by his 31 carreceptions, catching 15 balls for Helms is the other senior tight ries for 175 yards against Georgia 142 yards and two touchdowns. end. Both Helms and Bennett split State. TE - #5 Paul Bennett – Voted time as the starting tight end. RB - #33 Demetre Baker – One by his teammates to wear #5 in Their statistics match up and duo of the only newcomers to the ofhonor of fallen teammate Anthony combined for 18 receptions for 190 fense that is expected to have an Mostella, Senior Paul Bennett yards and three touchdowns last immediate impact on the team is looks to lead the Jaguars in 2011. season. Baker, a transfer student from the Bennett has been a part of the Jag University of Georgia. Although offense since their first season, Baker was redshirted in his only
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More Fan Support Needed At USA Sports Ryan Franklin Sports Columnist
Imagine that you’re an athlete on any level. You’re practicing and studying film all week, and finally game day rolls around. You start getting warmed up as game time rolls around, and finally it’s time to take the field or court. As you come out of the tunnel you’re expecting fans cheering and all eyes on you and your teammates, but you soon realize there is almost no one at the game. How would you feel? Suddenly all the pent up energy and expectations come crashing down, but there is still a game to play, and you may or may not play well. Would the fan support have something to do with your performance? In most cases, I would say yes, it would. When there is a packed house, and the fans are erupting with team spirit, the home team feels that energy and uses it to play to the best of their abilities. The noise from the crowd could give players an extra boost in confidence because they feel they have something, and more importantly, someone to play for. They will feel obligated to give fans a good show. You not only want to win for yourself, but you also want to win for the fans. One of the worst feelings in life is disappointing someone you care about. For athletes, multiply that feeling by the number of fans in attendance, watching, listening or reading about their game. There should be no reason why some sporting events on most college campuses should be empty, especially if students have to pay an athletic fee up front. I’m not saying that you should miss class or work to make every game, but fans should try their hardest to make some of the games to let players know that they do have someone in their corner. Attendance and winning go hand in hand, so I understand not attending a sporting event when the team you’re watching hasn’t been good in years, but one way to improve winning is better attendance. It isn’t impossible to have one without the other, but it certainly wouldn’t hurt. So if you are a student, employee or even just live in the area, try to support your Jaguars as best you can.
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Vanguard Sports
Who To Watch: 2011 Jaguar Defense Alex Wiles Sports Reporter The Offensive players on a football team are genrally more noticed and talked about than the defense. Quarterbacks, Runningbacks and wide recievers are usually in the spot light, but that doesn’t mean they are the only stars on the team. And as most people have said or heard, defense wins championships. This season will bring another stellar Jaguar defense on the field. These defensive players are hungry and want to be perfect again. Here are your players to watch on the defensive side of the ball. DEFENSIVE PLAYMAKERS LB - #42 Jake Johnson – Leading the Jags in sacks last season, Jake Johnson looks to Jayson Curry lead the linebackers after losing South Alabama defense scrimmages against offense in fall practice. former Linebackers to graduation. Johnson began his collegiate career at Virginia Tech, never played a game for South seeing action in both the 2008 Alabama is undoubtedly the and 2009 seasons and even startformer five-star recruit, Burton ed eight games as sophomore. Scott. After being part of a NaLB - #28 Enrique Williams – tional Championship season at Manning the other slot at middle the University of Alabama in linebacker is Enrique Williams, 2009, Scott found his way back who looks to take over a major to his hometown of Mobile. As role in the defense. Williams has a high school senior, Scott was played in every game since jointhe top-rated athlete by ESPN. ing the team and looks to take com and manned a Vigor High over a starting role this season. School backfield with RB Kendall Now stepping into a leadership Houston. Scott will make a large role, Williams will build on last contribution for the defense and season’s team-high 48 tackles. return game immediately. CB - #14 Anton Graphenreed CB - #4 Damond Smith – Af– Providing senior leadership ter a high school career where he will be Graphenreed’s biggest was named the top overall corasset. He is a two year starter nerback and #32 player overall and has been with the Jag proin the state of Michigan, Smith Matt Weaver gram since the beginning of its attended Western Michigan USA Cornerback Anton Graphenreed existence. Rest assured that the University. Smith played two defense is not complacent with seasons with the Broncos, where their past success and still play of USA’s flashier players. he was credited with 55 tackles with a chip on their shoulder. HONORABLE MENTION: and two interceptions. Smith’s Speaking for his teammates at QB - #2 Myles Gibbon; RB - #46 first collegiate interception came South Alabama Media Day, GraBrandon Ross; WR - #7 Lamonfrom future USA opponent Kent phenreed said, “There are people State. Smith has come in to USA tis Gardner; G - #54 Jon Griffin; who have counted us out a lot. I after transferring and moved into NT - #92 Montavious Williams; just want to prove them wrong LB/SS - #9 Ken Barefield; K - #19 a starting role immediately. He in the biggest way possible, and will be a key in the success of the Jordan Means that’s going out with a bang.” Jaguar defense this season. And FS - #1 B.J. Scott – The most as a self-proclaimed Deion Sandwell-known name that has ers fan, look for Smith to be one
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Vanguard Sports Sports Briefs JAG BASEBALL STUDENT ATHLETES REPORT FOR FALL Fall classes at the University of South Alabama began Monday, and the influx of newcomers, as well as returners, on the Jaguar baseball team reported for their first team meeting prior to the first day of classes. The Jags held their first meeting with head coach Mark Calvi and assistant coaches Bob Keller, Jerry Zulli and Alan Luckie Sunday evening, which allowed coaches to lay out the ground work for expectations and get a feel for this year’s squad Although fall practice will not start until Sept. 23, individual workouts will begin Monday Entering the fall semester, USA returns nine letterwinners from last season. JAG-GALS FOOTBALL 101.2 EVENTS FOR LADIES TO BEGIN TUESDAY NIGHT The Jag-Gals — a group of “athletic lovin’ Southern ladies” that supports University of South Alabama athletics — will hold the first of six social/lunch events during the 2011 football season Tuesday at Tacky Jacks on the Causeway. Tuesday’s event will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. and feature head coach Joey Jones, associate athletic director Travis Toth and equipment operations manager Jeff Bailey. In addition to previewing the Jaguars’ seasonopening contest against West Alabama, which is scheduled to kick off at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Ladd-Peebles Stadium, attendees will learn about USA’s game day operations. Tickets for all Jag-Gals football 101.2 events are $15 in advance and $25 at the door and are limited to the first 120 ladies who register. For more information on the Jag-Gals or to purchase tickets, individuals may contact the USA Athletic Development Office at (251) 461-1366. JAG VOLLEYBALL DROPS TWO ON DAY ONE OF UCF CLASSIC The University of South Alabama volleyball team dropped a pair of matches on Friday at the Courtyard by Marriott/UCF Classic held at The Venue at UCF, falling 3-0 to tournamenthost Central Florida and 3-2 to North Florida. “I think there were times today where our inexperience caused us to lose our composure,” South Alabama head coach Nicole Keshock said. “Both against Central Florida and North Florida, we let some sets slip away. That was inexperience. Our errors today are things that we can easily work out with just more experience playing on the court. The positives of today are that individual performances got better in the second match, and we seemed to gel a little bit better as a team. I think that will continue as we play more.” Senior outside hitter Samia Salomao became just the fifth Jag to eclipse the 1,000 dig mark for her career with her 28 combined digs on the afternoon. She now has 1,010 for her career, just three behind Selena Chidester. Wire Reports
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Baker Ready To Contribute Early Baker Understands Being Humble Helps To Prepare And Win Games Jayson Curry Sports Editor
Demetre Baker has come a long way from Orange Park, Fla. But when the football season starts Thursday, fans will be glad he made it here to South Alabama. Coming out of high school, Baker was a great football recruit who was pursued by schools from all over the country, including teams in the SEC. Baker eventually signed with the University of Georgia as a linebacker but is now at USA and will share a runningback load with Kendall Houston. Baker chose USA after getting advice from coaches at UGA that assured him of the program and coaches South Alabama had to offer. “My coaches told me they knew coaches at South,” Baker Said, “They said they had good coaches, good players and it was the best fit for me.” Coaches like Head Coach Joey Jones have made the transition easy for Baker. “Coach Jones handles the team really well,” Baker said. “We Jayson Curry have a really friendly coaching South Alabama Runningback Demetre Baker At Practice Friday staff and they make a great atmosphere.” With all sports you run in to Baker said. “Running back is a big Baker has already made an imdifferent types of coaches who time position, and I love going to pact on other sports at USA after are unique in their coaching style. practice every day.” transferring last spring. Baker In football, there is usually the After ending last season undejoined the track and field team coach that yells all day and then feated and leaving the football and broke the school record in the the coach that is more laid back. record at 17-0, there could be arshot put after posting a 17.17m Baker believes he needs both to be rogance in the program, but Baker (56-04) toping the South Alabama successful. assures that isn’t going on at USA. all-time list. “You need someone who en“We are going to take this sea“I knew coming in I needed to courages you and you need some- son game by game,” Baker said. work on my technique,” Baker one who will get in your face,” said, “It was great to finish second “We are still hungry. We want to Baker said. “How you practice is win. But there is no arrogance. We at the meet and even better after how you play.” I found out I broke the school stay humble, and when you are After a very competitive spring record.” humble, you win a lot of games.” and fall camp, the backfield And even though as fans we forBaker is also one athlete who is filled with talent, and, even get that these athletes are student doesn’t show arrogance during though Houston is the starter, games by trash talking. In football athletes, Baker won’t let himself Baker and others will contribute forget. “I just want to finish coland most other sports, talking greatly. lege with a degree,” Baker said. trash can elevate your game or “Swapping in and out will give “And then, hopefully, I can make take your opponents head out of all of us fresh legs.” Baker said. it to the next level in sports.” the game. But Baker doesn’t agree “We are all different types of Baker might be one of the newwith or participate in the talk. running backs so we are used in est members of the South Ala“Talking trash degrades athdifferent scenarios. It will make us letes,” Baker said. “I let my pads bama football program, but he more explosive.” understands the fan support and determine if I can play football” As a player that is big enough appreciates it. And other than staying humble to play linebacker, Baker is bigger “To the fans,” Baker said, “Enand not talking trash Baker knows than most running backs, but that joy the season, it’s going to be a what will help him and his teamwill show to be an advantage to mates this season. “Practice makes fun one to watch.” Baker and the Jaguars. perfect,” Baker said. “You can “I’m definitely a power back.” always get better.”
Vanguard Staff Staff editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com
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