August 22, 2011 | Vol. 49 No. 4
“If It Matters to the USA Family, It Matters to Us.”
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Staff Photos
Hundreds of students and parents navigated the Mitchell Center concourse to learn about student organizations and then made their way to the annual student welcoming banquet
Students Flock to a Successful Jagfest By Cassie Fambro Editor-In-Chief
JagFest began with a faculty-studded move-in experience for incoming freshmen, returning students and their parents. University of South Alabama President Gordon Moulton even lent a hand and mingled with parents. Other faculty members including Assistant Dean of Arts and Sciences Bob Coleman lugged in everything from comforters to chairs in an effort to welcome students to the
campus. The University of South Alabama Police Department (USAPD) attempted to streamline the move-in process and saw success. USAPD took to the parking lots to ask residents to move their cars from directly in front of the dorms so that an airport-style system could be enacted. Ryan Tarver, a freshman in physical therapy, appreciated the efficiency. “There were a lot of people, but it moved very fast.
People [from the university] were out there helping everyone move in. I brought up only two of my own bags and I was done!” Jagfest then moved on to the Mitchell Center where over 50 student organizations gathered to solicit new student involvement and spread awareness about their goals. Graduate Assistant with the Office of Campus Involvement Nick Lawkis called the campus organization fair “a great success.” President of the Geology Club Ron Schindler See JAGFEST pg. 11
Grove Taking Stronger Security Steps By Matt Weaver Senior Reporter
Staff Photo
Move-In Day! See page. 13
WEEKLY INSIDER
In preparation for the fall semester, the University of South Alabama Police Department has hired additional personnel to keep incoming students safe, especially those living near the Grove Housing Complex. “We’ve hired an additional officer, primarily for The Grove,” Chief of Police Zeke Aull said. “A large part of our problems have involved The
Grove over the past few years and we’re hoping this improves living conditions for our Grove students.” The plan is part of USAPD’s Officer Housing Program which provides police a presence at the student dorms. Officers are patrolling on foot and interacting with the student body, essentially becoming a part of the community. The program will also expand The Grove’s police checkpoints with an officer continually manning the facility’s front gate.
Savvy Hurricane Preparation Tips: pg. 18 Opinion: pg. 9 |
Life: pg. 6 |
Sports: pg. 20
“We’ve received positive reviews from The Grove,” Aull said. “We weren’t sure if we would because we’ve never been this hands-on before. It’s made them feel more secure.” Corey Bable, a sophomore communications major, is one such student. “I’m a little concerned about crime,” Bable said. “But I’m confident that our campus security is doing everything to improve safety.” See GROVE pg. 18
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August 22, 2011 | The Vanguard
The
Vanguard
NEWS
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
7/19 – Auto Theft
An officer pulled over a suspect for driving under A vehicle was reported stolen at The Grove the influence at 3:07 a.m. at Cleverdon Pkwy. and parking lot near Building 8 at approximately 1:47 found him in possession of alcohol and violation p.m. of government law. 7/23 – Driving Under the Influence/ Possession 6/27 – Theft of Property Third Degree of Controlled Substance
6/26 – Abandoned Vehicle A vehicle was abandoned at 3:32 p.m. near Cleverdon Pkwy. 7/03 – Theft of Property Third Degree Possessions were reported as missing from the Mitchell Center at 5:02 p.m. 7/07 – Auto Theft A vehicle was reported stolen near the College of Nursing Parking Lot at approximately 5:46 p.m. 7/11 – Domestic Incident A domestic incident was reported at the Delta 6 residence hall. The suspect was found to have committed domestic violence in the third degree, in violation of Government Law and failure to comply with University Officials. 7/15 – Possession of Controlled Substance A suspect was found in possession of marijuana, illegal drugs and unlawful possession of controlled substances.
An officer pulled over a suspect for driving under the influence at 3:32 a.m. at Old Shell Rd. and Hillcrest and found him in possession of a controlled substance. 7/30 – Minor in Possession of Alcohol/ Possession of Controlled Substance A minor at The Grove was found in possession of alcohol, drug paraphernalia and an illegal drug. 8/03 – Auto Theft A vehicle was reported stolen on Jaguar Drive at approximately 8:46 a.m. 8/06 – Theft of Article from Auto Possessions were reported as missing from a vehicle at 11:19 p.m. at the North Humanities parking lot. 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. Thanks to USAPD for providing The Vanguard with the Police Blotter weekly.
Special Note from Chief Aull Dear Faculty, Staff and Students: Please be aware that the new Jag Bikes program begins Monday morning with the start of classes. Motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians should be aware and cautious of the increased bicycle traffic on campus.
Vanguard Mission
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.
Possessions were reported as missing from the Maintenance Building and Parking Lot at 11:17 a.m.
August 22, 2011
University of South Alabama’s Student Voice
PoliceBlotter 6/25 – Driving Under the Influence/ Possession of Controlled Substance
The
Be reminded that bicycles are subject to the same road rules and laws as automobiles. For everyone’s safety, the USA Police Department will be closely policing speed limits and crosswalks to ensure that pedestrians are provided their legal right-of-way.
Bicyclists should be extra cautious where the Jag Bike paths and sidewalks are shared. Be safe! Zeke Aull, Chief USA Police
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 Editorin-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@ usavanguard.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 offcampus 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 Advertising Representative: Mohammad Ammar Al-Zarrad Graphic Designer: Brittany Hawkins MANAGEMENT Adviser: James Aucoin Accounting: Kathy Brannan
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August 22, 2011 | The Vanguard
The
Vanguard
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The
Vanguard
August 22, 2011
The Vanguard’s Weather Forecast: Aug. 22-28 We will have a beautiful but hot start to a new school year with partly cloudy skies, highs around 95° and scattered thunderstorms. Lows will be around 75° Monday night. Looking at Tuesday through Friday, we expect more of the same with partly cloudy skies , scattered thunderstorms and highs in the mid 90s. Overnight lows will be in the mid 70s. We will be a little cooler over the weekend with highs in the lower 90s with scattered thunderstorms and partly cloudy skies. Overnight lows will be in the lower 70s. We will be watching the tropics for any disturbances that may impact the Gulf Coast. 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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The
Vanguard
August 22, 2011
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The
Vanguard
Life
Weekly Lowdown
college 101: Quick Tips
Thursday, August 25 Jag Bike Roll-out! 4:00 p.m. The Moulton Belltower “First 500 students get t-shirts for participating! “
Friday, August 26 Student account balances for Fall Semester 2011 are due in full (if paying at the Office of Student Accounting) Normal hours: (Monday-Friday 8:00 AM 5:00 PM) Extended hours: (August 24, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM).
Next Week Preview Tuesday, August 30 Jaguar Football Pep Rally 6-8 p.m. at Moulton Tower and Alumni Plaza “Come support your Jags!”
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.
Bailey Hammond, Life Editor life.editor@usavanguard.com
Fairhope Raised Radio Personality Takes Charge as CMT’s Senior V.P.
Monday, August 22 Fall Semester Begins!
August 22, 2011
Lance Wilkinson
CONTRIBUTING WRITER From Mobile to New York and now The Killers to Keith Urban, Leslie Fram is no stranger to the music industry. Fram, former morning show co-host and program director of New York City rock station 1019RXP, was commissioned into the role of CMT’s new Senior Vice President and Music Strategy Coordinator in Nashville on August 16 by CMT President Brian Philips. A native of Fairhope, Ala., Fram gained notoriety along the Gulf Coast as a DJ for Mobile “Top 40” radio station 97.5 WABB. However, Fram’s recogni-
tion would not be limited to belt, Fram tenaciously claims the Gulf Coast as she spent her spot as CMT’s Senior Vice 10 years with Atlanta AlterPresident on September 1. native Rock station WNNX Fram affirms positive feelwhere she received numerous ings about her new position awards for her contributions and move to Nashville as in the music industry. stated to the Press: As Fram’s notoriety expand“This move just feels right ed, so did her aspirations and for me on so many levels…I location. am excited about the creative After her time freedom I’ve been with WNNX, she given to invent and moved to New York innovate with music City where she across all CMT’s platwas made Morning forms.” Show co-host and And how could she Program Director not be excited? for NYC Rock staWith Nashville betion 1019RXP. ing accredited as one But now southern of the most vibrant comfort and a rather cities for music in the Fram promising position country, Fram is sure with CMT draw her back to to have her hands full with the South. her new position with CMT, With the TJ Martell Award, the stars of Nashville and her NARAS-Atlanta Chapter Heown personal love of music. roes Award and experience at radio stations in three major American cities under her
Distractions, Distractions... Jake Howell
SECTION WRITER all, there’s a reason we’re not tions or messages can quickly being graded on how many turn into an hour long “creep” Distraction is the devious texts we send every second. session. destroyer of many a college One of the greatest drains, In fact, according to a recent student’s GPA. akin to a black hole in my study from Ohio State UniverWith the advent of social netmind, on a college student’s sity, undergraduate and graduworking and virtually instant ate students who use Facebook communication via cell phones, time is Facebook. A short visit to check notifica- tend to have lower GPA’s than it’s no wonder that students those who don’t use the find it difficult to consite. centrate on a lengthy Asking a friend to lecture. change your Facebook Facebook and texpassword until an exam ting make it incredis over is the best way to ibly easy to put off ensure that you remain that reading assignfocused. ment or knock-out Of course, limiting the that Spanish homeamount of time spent work after the party online works as well. this weekend. It takes dedication Staff Photo and self-control to suc- Facebook and other social media sites are a big cause ceed in college. After for distraction among college students. see Distracted, page 8
7 Open Wide and Say ‘Ahhh’ The
Vanguard Life
Bailey Hammond LIFE EDITOR
It seems like each new school year, the same thing happens, or in this case, things. Dentist, optometrist, family practitioner, etc, the list goes on. By the time we actually get to set foot on campus again, we’ve been prodded, poked, cleaned, dilated, measured and weighed. We feel like pieces of meat and it isn’t a pleasant. The week before classes start, when campus is still silent and watching, Facebook blows up with status updates like: “At dentist. Someone save me!” Or “I spilled ginger ale down my shirt. But thank God I couldn’t actually SEE it. I heart dilated eyes.” Okay, so that last one was a little personal. We’ve all waited until the last minute to do those things our parents have been telling us to do all summer. Who can blame us? Who actually likes the den-
August 22, 2011
tist (besides this girl)? Not However, procrastination is very many people. very real for the majority of So, we wait until we can’t college students. possibly put it off any lonIt’s why we subject ourselves ger, and we show up the first to the tortures listed above week, and fail to teeth learn, year clean after year. and If only we’d prescripschedule tions up those doctor’s to date, visits earlier and start and limit ourthe year selves to one off in the per month, afterwe might not math of hate having various to do it so forms of Staff Photo much. torture. Time has a tendency to get away from all of us, Maybe. but thankfully we have Moulton Tower to chime AcWhatever cording in when we’re running behind. the case, it’s to an our job now article on procrastination on to look out for ourselves and cnetnews.com, “Researchers at some point, we’re all going have estimated that 80 to 95 to learn that procrastination— percent of college students while it may serve us well at procrastinate, with as many as times—is not our friend in the 50 percent doing it regularly.” end. The funny part is that they It’s entirely too self-serving also talked about a formula for to care about our comfort, and procrastination that is simiif we let it rule our lives, we lar to Einstein’s equation for may find that we’ve given up a energy. part of ourselves to the monSomeone has too much time ster within. on their hands.
Apps for the Easily Distracted 1. Hanging with Friends (Free or $1.99) 2. Words with Friends (Free or $1.99) 3. Fruit Ninja (Free or $0.99) 4. Angry Birds ($0.99) 5. Facebook Messenger (Free) 6. Twitter (Free) 7.
Plants v. Zombies ($2.99)
8. Pandora Radio (Free) 9.
Kindle (Free)
10. Texts from Last Night ($0.99) 11. Bumpy Road ($2.99) 12. Paladog (Free) 13. High Caliber Hunting ($0.99) 14. Mortal Kombat 3 ($0.99) 15. Call of Duty Zombies ($4.99) 16. Tetris ($2.99)
(Prices courtesy of iTunes Store.)
Keystone XL Pipeline – the Biggest Straw in America Jeffrey Gill
Keystone XL is a continent-hugging pipeline that will transport 1.3 million barrels of crude oil (not cheap beer, as the name might suggest), and will become the jugular vein of North American oil transport. The plan of construction has four phases, demGill onstrated on the map, to stretch from Alberta, Canada, to Houston and Illinois. The pipeline’s target completion date is 2013. The source of all of this oil is the Alberta oil sands, a region the size of Florida inside Alberta’s boreal forest ecosystem that will be stripped of all living things for the sake of oil. The process of oil sands extraction is a nasty and inefficient one that involves toxic waste and contamination at almost every step.
risk of oil spills on Midwestern farmlands and the contamination of the ecosystems and water systems (including the Ogallala Aquifer in the Midwest) that surround the pipeline. Oil spills are an unavoidable consequence of pipeline construction. Most are somewhat unaware the specific effects of oil spills: they can poison or smother surrounding wildlife, cause the soil to lose its fertility and degrade water table quality drastically. For more information, you can check YouTube for a short video titled, “Keystone XL -Get the Facts.” In two weeks, you should check here for information on the new on-campus bikeshare program.
STAFF WRITER
www.transcanada.com
The key issue of the pipeline is the high
Jeffrey Gill is a self-proclaimed eco-freak. He is not an eco-terrorist however, so don’t ever call him that. His column on all things green and ecologically-friendly, as well as dangerous to Mother Nature, can be read bi-weekly right here and online.
8 Distracted from page 6
When asked how he keeps Facebook from impacting his grades, B.J. Smith, a Senior Interdisciplinary Studies major, said, “I set goals for myself in my study/homework material and take some Facebook time when I complete those goals.” Diligence is required for this route, though, for the temptation might be too great. While texting may not result in losing huge chunks of time, the buzzing of a cell phone doesn’t do you any favors. Before you know it, you’ve read the same paragraph seven times and still can’t remember what it said. A published study from the Whittemore School of Business and Economics at the University of New Hampshire stated that “slightly more than half of students (51 percent) agree that they are distracted from class material when they text in class.” The only way to keep your mind on the material at hand and off your cell phone is to turn it off. Unless you’re expecting important news, whatever anyone could say to you can wait until class is over. In response to the prevalence of Facebook and texting in the classroom, Lauren Gessner, a senior political science major, said, “It’s nice to stay in contact with friends and family while in school, but it’s more important to be present where you are!” Gessner added, “You’re paying for your education. What you learn will impact your future. Use the opportunity wisely and stay plugged into class!”
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!
The
Vanguard Life
August 22, 2011
Flowers, Flowers Everywhere Bailey Hammond
loaders, construction signs, gers University showing that orange netting and dump very thing. trucks, you can see that “Study participants reportother hands have been busy ed feeling less depressed, as well. anxious and agitated after The people behind the receiving flowers, and dembeautification of campus onstrated a higher sense of need to be saluted for their enjoyment and life satisfacpainstaking efforts at main- tion,” as reported by abouttaining appearances in the flowers.com, a website dedimidst of construction chaos. cated to all things flower We may not be able to use related. the student center, but the So that’s it then. flower bed surrounding the It seems that USA is desStaff Photo flags looks marvelous. Every bed has been The rose bushes are just beginning pruned, watered and to bloom just North of the Bookstore planted to within an and South of Alumni Hall on Mitch- inch of its life, and el Center Drive. they’ve never looked better. New students on campus Walking or biking to may not have noticed all of class will almost be like the sprucing up that’s been a trip to the botanical happening lately, but the fact garden, at least figuraremains that USA has retively speaking. ceived a major face-lift. They’ve even installed Staff Photo Flowers are blooming hydrangeas. Hydranovernight it seems, bushes A wrought iron gate outside of the Presigeas! appearing in flower beds, dent’s House (under construction at the Just looking at those just-poured concrete glistenmoment) frames some lovely greenery flowers is enough to ing in places and fresh paint make one think, “Wow- and a peek of the brick house itself. directing bikes and pedestriza! They really spared ans. no expense for the comThe effect is quite charmfort of my eyes.” tined to be a fairly happy ing. And that’s what it comes campus. With all of the new condown to in the end. One can’t go anywhere struction underway at the Beautification is a direct without stumbling across moment, one might think result of someone up high something flowery. that campus would look like, realizing that flowers make It’s enough to make one well, a construction zone. people happy. wonder if there’s a conspiraIt does in some ways, but if In fact, there has even been cy for our happiness afoot. you look past the front end a major study done at RutLIFE EDITOR
What Not to Do in Class Jake Howell Staff Writer
Rules, they’re all around us, governing the universe and such. Some are expressly written such as, “Thou shalt not cheat off my test.” Others are unwritten, an example being: “Go to class, but if you decide to ditch, don’t beg for someone’s notes.” If rules aren’t followed, anarchy reigns. While governments might not be overthrown if you don’t, there are some rules you should follow when in class. 1. Do not text, Facebook, tweet, or any other form of technological distraction while in class. Your professors won’t (prob-
ably) send your phone or laptop to purgatory, but they will remember who paid them respect while they were lecturing when it comes time to write letters of recommendation. 2. Keep questions relevant to the material. When asked about what annoys her during class, Chelsey David, a Junior Mathematics major said, “I hate it when someone goes on and on about things that have nothing to do with what we’re learning.” 3. Do not be a distraction during class. Cari Hurley, a Junior Biomedical Sciences major, said, “Tapping your pen or feet is not only very annoying, but can also be
very distracting.” If you find yourself moving restlessly, make an effort to make yourself as small a distraction as possible. 4. Do not sleep in class. “If you sleep in class, it’s disrespectful to others around you and your teacher…it gets annoying if they start to snore,” said Stephanie Pelonia, a Junior Nursing major. 5. Even if you think the professor can’t see you, he/she probably can. Making faces to your friends across the room when your professor tells a corny joke is not a good idea. Ever.
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August 22, 2011
OUR VIEW EDITORIAL BOARD >>editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com
Opinion 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
Common Sense and Security, Needed As the new semester dawns and new students step into their dorm rooms and get acquainted with campus life, many challenges present themselves. The University is experiencing growing pains in a way that bears no resemblance to previous years. The amount of growth and change that USA has undergone is substantial, and in a short amount of time. Stokes Hall is already a point of contention, with the lack of parking. Visiting the parking lot around midnight on moving day was evidence enough to see that parking is already an issue. Every spot in front of Stokes Hall, Delta 4 and Delta 5 was taken. Cars drove aimlessly around the lot hoping someone would leave. At least three cars that we saw were illegally parked, one even illegally blocking handicapable access to the dorms. In order to accomidate to these growing pains and get comfort-
able in its new skin, USA has to employ both common sense and a sense of obligation. Students need to be mindful of each other and take up only one parking space. Be courteous and respect parking rules. University officials also need to keep in mind that longer walks to dorms at night increase the risk for lack of security. We would find it a solid good-faith gesture if campus police were often seen walking around the dimly-lit areas between Stokes Hall and the Detla Residence Hall faciltiies. Students have varying and active lifestyles, and often, it means getting back home at all hours. If everyone is a little more alert and aware, then adaptation will come easier. You probably cannot park directly in front of your door, but remember it could always be worse. Working together, we’ll get used to our new skin and start fitting in our new clothes, USA.
Take a note from Ms. Frizzle By Cassie Fambro Editor-in-Chief
There comes a time in people’s lives when they need to put up or shut up. Excuses only hold the weight that the maker attributes them to. One can point to numerous examples; Obama and his economic policies, a friend that won’t stand up to someone. The point is that life is really just too short. What you do and say and act is determining your future, right now. There is no waiting for the future; you’re making it in the present. Many are starting school for the first time and some folks are like me, going into their senior year feeling like we’ve been here a lot longer than three years. This place, college, becomes like home. It doesn’t matter if you live here, commute, or wander through.
Imran Mohiuddin, Opinion Editor opinion.editor@usavanguard.com
What happens here defines you as a person. The choices you make mold your future. In teaching freshmen seminar, I learned that a lot of students are simply following a path chosen for them. I think this is counterproductive and in the long run all it does is stifle true growth. One day, you’re wandering along a path that you didn’t question and you wake up, only to realize you lost your way. Now is the time to assert your independence, go with your gut and pull a Ms Frizzle. Get messy. Make some damn mistakes. There is so much pressure to be perfect, get the best grades, join the best organizations and get into the elite honor societies. Many students come into college with a high school sweetheart and also go through the pressure of trying to stay united in a time in our lives when we are most vulnerable to change. The moment you pick up a cigarette, go to class and get the extra credit, or fail to turn in the paper you knew you had to do
three weeks ago, you’re making changes. People don’t leave college the same as they came in. It’s alright to question your beliefs, whether they be ingrained or forced upon you. It’s okay to test the strength of your friendships and stray a little bit from what you’ve always known. Never again in your life will you have the opportunity to take any class you please, go where you want on Friday with whoever you want, and go off to a foreign country with little holding you back. If there is one thing I could tell myself when I walked into the door of my first class in 2008 besides not to park in the blue spaces, it would be to be free. Speak freely, act freely, and accept no restrictions. If you go into biology and hate it, for the love of god, switch to that graphic design major you wanted to do in the first place. Don’t end up here five years down the line, knowing you should have followed your instincts. Raise see FRIZZLE pg. 27
What are the big changes that you’ve noticed since arriving on campus? I noticed that the “S” in the word “South” on the entrance way by Laidlaw is upside down. It’s worth seeing. Bryce Coleman Biomedical Sciences Sophmore
They’ve put speed bumps on Stadium Dr. that slow down those speedy cars and make it easier for people to walk across the road without worrying about traffic. Justin Jong Biomedical Sciences Sophmore
I was completely blown away at how the University upgraded the bookstore and in the student center. Now I can get my Jag swag in a nicer, newer environment. Robert Fornof Computer Science Junior
The dorms have been fixedup and renovated nicely, and Jag Bikes will hopefully help with traffic and other things around campus. Samantha Michelle Occupational Therapy Sophomore
I’m liking the direction the University is taking with environmental concerns, such as the implementation of campus bicycles and the numerous recycling bins that have appeared around the residential areas. These changes were long overdue, in my opinion. Maelynn La Chemistry Junior
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The
Vanguard Opinion
Point Counterpoint
August 22, 2011
Editor’s Introduction:
With the economy enfeebled and tuition rising over eight percent in the last year alone, many students think that the university should implement cost saving measures to minimize expenditures. That is why the university’s decision to create a bike system has been recieved poorly by some. However, others think it’s a step in the right direction. The P/CP explains.
Not the Most Opportune Time
Bikes are worth their weight
things a step further with As former Indian prime to exploit the system and Decisions concerning the eventually most of the University of South Alathe implementation of minister Jawaharlal Nehru bikes will disappear from bama’s budget are always Jagsmart, a program that once said, “The wheel of campus. important, especially when will lead to the addition change moves on, and While I find it comconsidering the current of hundreds of bicycles those who were down go mendable that the Univer- up and those who were economic climate. With that on campus. sity is trying to be more being said, the university’s It’s true that the up go down.” In life, environmentally aware, I latest decision to create a majority of students things are don’t think campus bike system was, currently choose to constantly that a bike frankly, a poor one for our walk or drive to all their changing program school. was reIn the past, transportaclasses, but with bikes in one Surabhi ally the best tion has never been a large freely available, they are direction or Justin Jong course of acproblem for the University. more likely to opt for the other Vinod tion. While With so many renovation riding them in order to in order to I know projects already happening avoid busy traffic. reach equilibrium this program exists around campus, along with the For those students who don’t as long as there several more that were just recently so that people will have cars, these bikes will be a are resources completed last year, it doesn’t seem eventually adopt present in order to much better option than waiting that we currently need to be finding more environmenon the JagTran, especially when let them do so. more ways to vamp up our campus tally sound transportation methods, at the expenses of our school and needing to travel from one end While Nehru’s but I can’t really see students. of campus to the other within words embody a how having several Currently, South Alabama alfundamental truth one class change. hundred bikes acready provides a JagTran bus These bikes will follow on a grand scale, complishes this. system that takes students to areas the footsteps of the new rec they can also be For one, most cars within a short walking distance of center by promoting health illustrated here at don’t move after almost anywhere they may need and wellness on campus of South. being parked, with to go, so I hardly see why a new individuals. At this the harsh ticketing system is necessary. Logo courtesy of usouthal.edu It may take some time for a moment, there policy being enough Jag Smart is part of the initiative to Instead, the university should to prevent most just redraw the JagTran routes, so are many changes large number of students to take people from moving make USA a greener campus. that the bus system isn’t crippled advantage of these bikes, but occurring at our their cars across different zones. by its slowness. University not only academically even if half of the bikes are put Additionally, there seems little Keeping the bikes safe is the most to use it’s a great start. but structurally as well. hope that Jagsmart will lead more glaring issue I see with the new Yes, some students may spend The recent construction of the students to come to campus on bibike system. At 55 dollars each, the bell tower, the student recreation their whole time here and never bikes will easily make some money cycles, especially when considering take advantage of the bikes, center, and the new on-campus how busy Old Shell Rd , University on internet websites like eBay and but many students do not take bookstore are evidence that Blvd and Stadium Dr. are at rush pawn shops in cities other than advantage of a lot of great South is evolving and becoming hour. Mobile. Since the bikes have already been bigger and better each day. USA’s campus is huge, allowing resources already offered by purchased, we’ll soon see how anyone to enter the campus at any South Alabama. These changes will promote the well Jag Smart will work on camgiven time, meaning that hypoThese bikes can be a valuable admiration of South for years to pus. While I would love to see the thetically a bike thief could enter asset to our campus, and every come. system thrive, I can’t help but be a campus every day and leave with little step forward counts for However it’s not enough little pessimistic. I guess only time one of the bikes. It’s inevitable that something. just to have a pretty campus. will tell. there will be individuals who want Students and faculty are taking
Imran Mohiuddin Opinion Editor
Pushing Boundaries
Time to rethink our priorities
I’ve watched the Republican Party presidential primary with great interest recently, as it looks to be an interesting one if nothing else. With Michelle Bachmann, Rick Perry and Ron Paul being the party’s 2012 presidential hopefuls, the nation will surely face huge changes if the White House switches hands. It’s obvious that this election will hinge not on social issues but
rather the economy. With unemployment rates being at their highest since the Great Depression, job creation will be the topic that makes or breaks any candidate. With that being said, there seems to be an agreement amongst the GOP that job creation should come at any cost, with every other issue taking the backseat to it. While ending unemployment seems like a great idea for the nation, this idea has found an enemy in the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and it’s on those talks that I begin to get a little scared. Before going any further I think it’s important to note that I’m not a person who thinks about the environment and nothing else. Like most other people I know, I usually only recycle when it’s convenient and I will probably never chain myself to a tree to prevent a
bulldozer from knocking it down. Still, like 97 percent of climatologists studying the matter, I believe that humans are playing a key role in global climate change and that a minor drop in unemployment is not worth destroying fragile ecosystems over. So while the EPA might create reports that fail to consider economic impacts, it’s a bad idea to completely disregard the agency and the job it performs. The EPA has come under recent attacks with certain candidates lately, with Michelle Bachmann going as far as to call it, “the jobkilling organization of America,” and pledging to “have doors locked and lights turned off.” While statements like this might galvanize crowds, they also seem quite dangerous, especially when looking at countries without environmental regulations.
After landing in India a few years ago, I immediately saw repercussions facing countries that do not value the environment. During the day, a layer of smog surrounds the upper atmosphere, dense enough that passersby can stare at the sun without being blinded. Moreover, when the day’s heat mixes with the smog, a concoction is formed that can leave a person gasping for air. Here in the United States we take our environment for granted. Most of us never think about the purity of the air we breathe in, or the cleanliness of the water in the lakes, rivers and ponds around us. We have that luxury because there is a regulatory body that cares about the planet for us. While it’s inevitable that some changes will come as our nation grows, I don’t find it prudent to close the doors on the EPA or our environment.
11 Spotlight: A look into the Student Veteran’s Organization (SVO) The
Vanguard
By Genny Roman Associate Editor
The Student Veterans’ Organization stayed quiet in the past, but they intend to change that. Janet Davis, president of the Student Veterans’ Organization (SVO), wants to get the group off the ground. According to Davis, also a Veterans Affairs (VA) representative for student orientations, the University of South Alabama lacks a strong veterans community. Davis said, “Veterans bring in $5 million a year for this institution – why not encourage more military and independents to attend the University?” Last academic year, 720 veterans were enrolled at USA. For fall 2011, 485 registered and “we’re expecting at least a 100 more this semester,” said Davis. “We have one of the largest veteran communities in the state of Alabama.” Davis stated the SVO supports USA’s veteran community and their dependents in their transition between military lifestyle and their collegiate environment. “They’ve seen a lot more of the world than their peers have, have different experiences and ultimately different and varying needs.” Increasing the presence of the SVO for Davis means negotiating changes that would occur on South’s campus. “[The University] is not as veteran-friendly as they could
August 22, 2011
JagFest From pg. 1
be.” Some of the issues she cited were no transition aid for veterans unless they are designated as a special-needs student, no veteran-specific classes, and the lack of a Yellow Ribbon Program. According to the U.S.
Photo Courtesy of Janet Davis
SVO President Janet Davis
Department of Veterans Affairs, the program allows degree-granting institutions to voluntarily enter into an agreement with VA to fund tuition expenses that exceed the highest public in-state undergraduate tuition rate. Universities and colleges can contribute up to 50 percent of those expenses and VA will match the amount given by the institution. “It covers what GI Bill benefits wouldn’t. The VA can only pay so much for a military member going to school, so the veteran is left holding the bag,” said Davis.
Davis and the SVO have been pushing for a bigger presence on campus in different ways. A few of those ways, she said, are speaking with the Student Government Association, talking to veterans as they come through the VA office and holding events such as raffles throughout the fall semester. The SVO plans on holding a clothing drive on Oct. 13 as a part of the homeless veterans’ Stand Down, an event where homeless veterans in the area receive lunch and clothing. Davis, a Criminal Justice and History double major, takes on two roles: she stands as president of the SVO and as an employee of the VA office at South. Both of her positions intermingle most of the time. “The two have gone handin-hand for me. Right now, my office is filled with clothes for our philanthropy for homeless veterans…. the two definitely blur the lines.” The group itself works closely with the VA – their advisor is actually an official in the VA office. Davis does not believe the SVO will be getting out from under the wing of the VA any time soon though. “I don’t see us having enough involvement for us to be a completely independent organization. It’s something that will be closely linked to the VA office for the foreseeable future.”
managed the geology booth where students could make pet rocks as a souvenir and to peak student interest in geology. Schindler summed up the Geology Club experience by saying “We had an awesome turnout; we couldn’t get people to stop making pet rocks!” Another student organization, To Write Love on Her Arms, called JagFest a great way to reach out to students. TWLOHA Vice President Maegan Torres said that the best part about JagFest is “how excited” everyone was about getting involved. The event culminated in the annual President’s Dinner in the Mitchell Center arena. A buffet style spread was served to students and their parents as well as those that represented their organizations at JagFest. Associate Vice President of Enrollment Services Dr. David Stearns told The Vanguard that he believes more students are coming to USA for the “academic caliber” of the institution and the “value on the dollar for the quality of services provided.” Dr. Stearns added that “students and parents want what we offer.” Final Fall enrollment numbers will not be available until after the first week of classes, but if they follow recent trends, USA will surpass 15,000 students once again.
August 22, 2011
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12 Find “The Vanguard: USA’s Student Newspaper” on Facebook (We know you’re already there anyway!)
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August 22, 2011
A glance at the Brand-New Stokes Hall
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By Cassie Fambro Editor-in-Chief
Staff Photo Genny Roman
The newest addition to USA Housing is called Stokes’ Hall.
Why is it called Stokes Hall? According to the University of South Alabama Office of Public Relations, the new residence hall is named in honor of USA alumni Dr. Steven H. Stokes and his wife, Angelia, in recognition of their contributions to the University. Dr. Stokes is a longtime member and former chair of USA’s Board of Trustees.
What is a Learning Community? The concept, according to USA Public Relations, is a “Learning Community.” Learning Communities improve student retention and success by integrating academic and campus life. Five different communities, including business, engineering, health and wellness, leadership, and nursing are featured in the new residence hall. Learning community faculty are considered “freshman friendly” and may also teach in the new residence hall classroom.
Staff Photo Genny Roman
Families get everything ready to move in for the first time to the new facility.
Staff Photo Genny Roman
The calm before the move-in storm at Stokes Hall.
August 22, 2011
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15 University Construction In Brief The
Vanguard
August 22, 2011
By Matt Weaver Senior Reporter
Bookstore Renovation Completion Date: July 2011 Cost: $2.5 Million Entrance Portals: Completion Date: TBA Cost: $2 Million (Grant) Shelby Hall Engineering and Computing Sciences Building Completion Date: Sep. 2011 Cost: $40.6 Million
Student Center Renovations Completion Date: TBA Cost: TBA
Staff Photo Matt Weaver
The bookstore has been renovated and the Student Center will continue to be renovated throughout the semester. A more modern look is sought, along with easier access and more options for students.
ABSL-3 Laboratory Completion Date: March 2013 Cost: $14.5 Million (Grant) Stokes Hall Completion Date: Aug 2011 Cost: $15 Million
Want us to look into something? Let us know. Editor.in.chief@ usavanguard.com
Staff Photo Matt Weaver
Stokes’ Hall was finished just in time for school and incoming students to reside in the new facility
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August 22, 2011
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August 22, 2011
18 Tis’ the Season: Hurricane Info to Know The
Vanguard
August 22, 2011
By Patrick Bigbie
Contributing Reporter
With possible danger looming in the gulf, it’s important to be aware of what to do and how to prepare in the event of a hurricane.
If told to evacuate here are the evacuation routes for the area:
The time to prepare is before the storm hits.
Mobile County: I-65 North*, US 43 & US 45 Dauphin Island: AL 193 to I-10
Key things to know: Know if you live in an evacuation area and whether or not you are vulnerable to storm surge flooding and wind and have a basic plan. Monitor NOAA Weather Radio and local media for updates. If a storm threatens, heed the advice from local authorities. Evacuate if ordered. Have a disaster kit ready. It should include food and water (one gallon per person a day) to last three to seven days, pillows/blankets, fully charged phones, cash (ATMs may be down for days), hygiene items, medications, important items and pet care.
Bayou La Batre: AL 188 or CR 19 to I-10 *I-65 will be Four Lanes NB to Montgomery Baldwin County: AL 59N to I-65N Gulf Shores: AL 59 or Foley Bch Expy ** Eastern Shore: US 98 or AL 181 **No Toll During Evacuations
The Saffir-Simpson Scale (via the National Hurricane Center) Tropical Depression mph Tropical Storm mph
: <39 : 40-74
Category 1 Hurricane : 75-95 mph Category 2 Hurricane : 96110 mph Category 3 Hurricane : 111130 mph Category 4 Hurricane : 131155 mph Category 5 Hurricane : 155+ mph
As always, you can get the latest on any hurricanes or tropical storms that may impact the area from Gamma 9 Weather. -“Like” us on Facebook at Facebook.com/StormTeam4Gamma9Wx -Follow us on twitter at twitter.com/stormteam4g9wx -Follow Student Meteorologist Patrick Bigbie on Twitter.com/ metwxpatrick
Editor’s note: Patrick reccommends following the tracking maps at tropicalweatherwatch.com, and The Vanguard’s Facebook page will link to Patrick’s information if the USA Family is in any danger of severe weather.
Grove Cont. from pg. 1
It’s no secret that The Grove has been the epicenter of some of USA’s highest-profile crimes over the past several months. On May 23, two persons were robbed at gunpoint and on July 26, a knife-wielding man carjacked a woman. The police department told The Vanguard in June that the Grove was more vulnerable due to its location directly off Old Shell Rd. and cracks in their security, including a faulty entrance gate and easily penetrable fences. “The same factors that made The Grove convenient for residents also made it convenient for criminal activity as well,” said Lt. Keith West. The Grove has responded by increasing communications with the authorities and installing cameras and repairing entrance gates. The residents answered by being more cautious on the facility and monitoring who they invite to the complex. The results thus far have provided more quiet nights around campus. “We have quality students at The Grove just as we do on our whole campus,” Aull said. “The students are why we’re here and what we do this for.”
August 22, 2011
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News in Brief Andra Bohnet “Green Energy” Faculty Flute Recital September 13, 2011 Laidlaw Performing Arts Center Recital Hall 7:30 p.m.
expressing their passion and enthusiasm for USA. Applications are now available in the Office of New Student Recruitment located with the Admissions Office in Meisler Hall 2500. Thursday, August 25, 2011 is the deadline to apply.
Andra Bohnet, flutist and USA First Cancer Research Professor of Music, will present Colloquium a faculty recital, “Green Energy” on Tuesday, September 13 at October 14, 2011 7:30 p.m. in the USA Laidlaw 8:00 A.M. until 4:00 P.M. Performing Arts Center Recital USA Main Library Auditorium Hall. Interested individuals are Bohnet will be joined by USA invited to submit abstracts Department of Music/Mobile involving experimental biology, Symphony colleagues Robert etiology, prevention, diagnosis, Holm, piano, Rebecca Mindock, therapy, and epidemiology of oboe and John Craig Barker, cancer. clarinet. Any questions should be USA Musical Art Series directed to Ken Bloch at kbloch@ Concert usouthal.edu. Deadline for September 15, 2011 at 7:30 abstract submission is: Friday, p.m. August 26th by 12:00 noon. “Russian Masters” USA College of Medicine Daniel Driskell, piano faculty at Welcomes Dr. Crisostomo USA, will present a recital entitled Baliog “Russian Masters” at the Laidlaw Performing Arts Center Recital Dr. Crisostomo Baliog Jr. was Hall on September 15 at 7:30 recently appointed assistant p.m. professor of internal medicine at the University of South Alabama This recital will feature piano College of Medicine. music from Russian composers of the Romantic period, 20th He is a rheumatologist and century and 21st century. will serve in the USA division of rheumatology. South Guide Applications Available Dr. Baliog earned his medical degree from the University of the If you are an undergraduate Philippines. student looking for campus employment with flexible hours \He completed his residency and great pay, you may have training in internal medicine what it takes to become a South at Boston University School Guide here at USA. of Medicine - Roger Williams Hospital in Providence, R.I., and The Office of New Student completed his rheumatology Recruitment is currently hiring fellowship at Boston University South Guides to tour prospective School of Medicine - Roger students and families around Williams Hospital and Brown campus. University Warren Alpert Medical School - Rhode Island Hospital, Candidates for these positions both in Providence, R.I. must enjoy meeting and speaking with new people, posses a positive attitude and have an interest in
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August 22, 2011
22 South Alabama Move-in Day Madness The
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August 22, 2011
By Genny Roman Associate Editor
Staff Photo Genny Roman Staff Photo Genny Roman
University officials invested in temporary recycling for the weekend
How many people are in Housing? According to USA Public Relations, with the recent addition of Stokes Residence Hall, USA will have a record number of students living on campus, with 3,085 students residing at the University this fall. This number includes students living at The Grove, privately owned apartment-style student housing on USAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s campus
Students stepped out in style to move into the highly anticipated new residence hall.
Did you read your contract?
According to USA Housingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website, all Residence Hall contracts that originate in the fall semester are two semester contracts (fall and spring semesters). If you sign a Residence Hall contract for fall semester and remain enrolled for the following spring semester, you are obligated to the Residence Hall contract, which includes responsibility for paying the rent for that spring semester. During the contract period, you may change housing areas or rooms after the second week of classes by completing the necessary paperwork in your area office.
Trash loomed around campus as students moved in. Staff Photo Genny Roman
Braxton Holley, a freshmen moving into the dorms, had a good experience.
Staff Photo Genny Roman
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Sports
Jayson Curry Sports Editor
Sports.editor@usavanguardcom
August 22, 2011
Men’s Basketball Improving From Last Season
Jake Wasdin Sports Reporter
South Alabama men’s basketball is looking to rebound from a disappointing 12-16 record. “We have a chance to be in the hunt this year,” South Alabama Head Coach Ronnie Arrow said. “We are more athletic, have bigger guards, and our experience in our big men will be a contributing factor.” Arrow also mentioned that he looks for Antione Lundy to step into a leadership role as a senior. “He is a good player with a good shot,” Arrow said. Lundy averaged 3.9 points and 2.6 rebounds per game in eight contests last season. Arrow also wants to see more from his 6’6” center, Augustine Rubit. “He has three more good years,” Arrow said “He can only go up from here.” Rubit averaged 13.1 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks a game. His stellar freshman campaign led to him being named the Sun Belt Conference Freshman of the Year. Rubit will look to follow up on his freshman season with an even better sophomore season. Coach Arrow also sees the incoming class to bring some leadership to the table. One of the incoming players who will certainly contribute is point guard Trey Anderson. Anderson averaged 20.7 points, 8 rebounds and 6.9 assists a game last season at Neosho County Community College. Mychal Ammons, a 6’6”, 230-lbs. small forward, is another player Arrow is looking to for help in the backcourt. Ammons is ranked pre-season 48th in the nation at his position. The Jaguars are going to need all players and coaches to step up and come together to be successful in 2011. “Our schedule is the most demanding schedule I’ve ever coached at South Alabama,” Arrow said. “But it will help us grow in experience for conference tournament. “The Sun Belt stepped it up this year with good recruiting being done.” The Jags will continue its up-tempo style of play from the past couple of seasons. “All our guards need to learn the system,” Arrow said. “It is a guard’s game and it’s a guard’s system.” Look for South Alabama to be in contention late in the season and making a deep run in the Sun Belt Championship Tournament.
2010-11 USA Fall Sports In Review Matt Weaver Senior Reporter
The start of a new year brings out new expectations and it’s no different for South Alabama’s athletic programs. The fall semester provides the bulk of school sporting events with football, basketball, soccer and volleyball all gearing up before the winter break. Even baseball’s Red and Blue Intrasquad Series takes place in the fall. The following is a guide to help you sort out all the new faces and happenings in USA Athletics. Football: The toast of the town, South Alabama is 17-0 entering its third season of NCAA football. An undefeated record is not without its shares of dramatics, with a near-loss at California-Davis and playing from behind against Lamar. The Jags will be further tested in 2011 with a schedule including Division I North Carolina State and Kent State and return matches against old foes Georgia State and Lamar. The football Jags maintained much of their young roster from a year ago with redshirt freshmen C.J. Bennett and Ken Houston. The defense is topped by Anton Graphenreed and Jake Johnson. This is the second straight season pundits have promised at least one loss for the upstart Jaguars and pressure, and momentum, is steadily building. You have only one opportunity to make a first impression and the Jaguars have made good ones at home, on the road and against every new team they’ve played for. Win or lose, the 2012 season is about announcing to the world that South Alabama Football has arrived on the national landscape. Men’s Basketball: It’s almost a changing of the guard for South Alabama men’s basketball, with the program undergoing several shakeups on both the player roster and coaching
winters before sizzling out in the early rounds of the Sun Belt Tournament. Last year was another such example with the Jags finishing 17-13 and getting bounced in the second round. The program is in good hands with 12th-year head coach Rick Pietri. He’s retooled the roster in hopes of remaining competitive in a tough mid major conference. Pietri will look to senior guard Sarda Peterson who last season averaged 10.8 points per game. Peterson also ranks sixth on the Lady Jags’ career three-pointer list with 113 going into the 2011-12 season. Also junior transfer from Cleveland State Community College Kierra Johnson should play a key role for the Lady Jags. Johnson averaged an impressive 15.3 points per game and 10.7 rebounds last season at Cleveland State C.C. Women’s Soccer: Head Coach Mike Varga’s soccer squad went 5-14-1 last usajaguars.com season but appears set to rebound Men’s Basketball Head Coach Ronnie Ar- with a veteran and tested roster. row The team will rely on mainstays like staff after a frustrating 12-16 2010-11 Kristen Thacker and Brandi Smith but will mix in fresh faces during the early season. Head coach Ronnie Arrow is back portion of the season. Five wins are not positive by any for a fifth-straight season, 12th overall, and has overhauled his assistant roster standard but will allow for a measure in hopes of returning to the NCAA of creativity by Varga as the season Basketball Tournament for the first progresses. Veteran leadership should allow this time since the 2007-2008 season. Gone are the controversial Tim team to finish above last year’s and set the stage for a surprise tournament Williams and Gary Redus. Enter the youth movement with push. Volleyball: This team is short freshman Mycal Ammons and Juco transfer Freddie Jones-Goldstein. The a middle blocker with the recent Jags have also retained all of their post ligament injury to Sophomore players including the defending Sun Torlandria Jones creating a unique Belt freshman of the year, Augustine battle for the final roster spot. Lea Thurm and Melissa Waelter appear Rubit. to be the two leading candidates with Expectations are remarkably high. Women’s Basketball: South senior Jordan McMullan also moving Alabama women’s basketball has to the front as a result of Jones’ injury. With injuries also comes opportunity been in a holding pattern for the past few seasons with schedules marred for Head Coach Nicole Keshock and by exceptionally fast starts and slow her team.
Football Season Kick-Off Party At The Shed Alex Wiles Sports Reporter
With the Jags’ third football season set to begin Sept. 1, our friends at The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint are starting the party early. To gear up for the first game, The Shed will host the Jaguar Football Kickoff Party next Wednesday, Aug. 31. Students are urged to get involved and show their support for their football team. The party gets started at 7 p.m. and will feature live music from a local favorite, the Wes Loper Band. SouthPaw and the USA Cheerlead-
ers will be in attendance, preparing everyone for kickoff of the Jags’ season. Game tickets and South merchandise will also be available! The Shed will be serving up their award-winning BBQ and offering beer specials all night. With live music, beer specials and your favorite BBQ, the Jaguar Football Kickoff Party should be a great way for students, faculty and the entire Mobile community to get excited about the upcoming season. Because the football program is growing every year, student attendance at events for South Alabama is vital to continuing the support
from our local community. The event comes on the eve of South Alabama’s first game in only their third year of football. The Jags will suit up against the University of West Alabama Tigers who posted an impressive 7-4 record last season. The West Alabama game will make history as the first-ever televised game for South Alabama. Before the action on the field begins, mark your calendar to be part of the Kickoff Party at The Shed BBQ. Show your support to the undefeated Jaguars.
August 22, 2011
College Football Landscape is Changing Ryan Franklin Sports Columnist The College Football world has been on the verge of a complete makeover since last season’s conference realignment scare. Earlier this year college football was shaken up by more talk of schools switching conferences. Recently there has been a lot of speculation that Texas A&M would join the Southeastern Conference and schools such as Clemson, Missouri, and Florida State would follow suit. The news of these teams moving to the SEC comes less than a year after teams like Nebraska, Utah, Colorado, and TCU decided to make the move to new conferences. These changes make a difference in college football but not even close to the difference a 16-team super SEC would make. SEC commissioner Mike Slive has said that he is not looking to expand just yet and that his league will remain a 12-school conference. If he does decide on expansion, other conferences will likely want to do the same just to keep up with their contemporaries. Part of the reason for these conference realignments is just to be the first to jump. If a conference decides it will only add teams when all others do, they could waste valuable time and lose out on teams they would have wanted to add. It would be a domino effect. And we would possibly end up with only four or five super conferences. That is a bad idea and a bad direction for college football and any other sport to go. Costs for schools to travel to away games would become outrageous as teams from all over the country would be changing conferences. Just think of how much farther the teams in the Big East will have to go to play TCU and vice versa. The advantage of a super conference would be ultra-competitive leagues but the smaller schools would get pushed even further to the back of the line when it comes to money and television time. It would also cause a more competitive recruiting war if that’s even possible. If that happened, pay-for-play scandals and gift-giving boosters would increase even more. The NCAA already has more problems than it can currently handle. Maybe they could solve a few before adding another to the list but there again, we’re talkin’ about the NCAA. If the SEC does decide to expand into super conferences hopefully it is a well thought-out and organized plan instead of just doing it because everyone else is or just because they can.
25 Linemen Ready For The New Season The
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Offensive and Defensive Lines Improving Upon Last Season Jayson Curry Sports Editor As the temperature continued to rise Thursday at South Alabama’s football practice, so did the intensity. This couldn’t be more true then when the offensive and defensive lines were practicing against each other. On most, if not every football team, the linemen are at the heart and mean just as much to the success of a team as any other position. That being said the linemen are always the least talked about and least appreciated. But going into the 2011 season it is necessary to have great linemen on both sides of the ball if the Jags want another undefeated season. The offensive line returns almost every player from last season including the starters. “As a group we should be betUSA Archives ter than last year,” offensive line Offensive and Defensive Linemen Scrimmage at South Alabama Football Practice Last Week coach John Turner said. “We have According to Coach Brian Turner been working extremely hard, we of any of our linemen and he is as good as any lineman I have ever the defensive line will have all the had an outstanding spring and have coached.” starters from the past two seasons had a great camp so far.” One thing the offensive and dereturning. The offensive line will look to be “We will have a lot of experience as physical as possible according to fensive linemen share during practice is the competition between one up front and should be a lot better Coach John Turner. another. than last season.” “We have a very physical o-line. The linemen arguably practice As far as their defensive line stratWe have three or four base plays harder than any other group on the egy it is very simple. “We want to we run out of and we like to douteam and it shows when they come get after the quarterback,” Coach ble team at the point of attack. We together and Turner said. want to move practice against The defensive line will go after someone back each other. the opposing quarterback in many and as long as “Our offendifferent ways this season. Being we win our dousive linemen just mostly undersized, especially when ble teams we refuse to lose,” going by Division-1 standards for feel like we can Coach John Turna defensive line, the Jags will use get yards.” er said. “They are their speed. With close to winners. They are “We will bring something differthe entire oftruly hurt when ent,” Coach Brian Turner said. “We fensive line back they lose at anyare going to use our speed and othfrom last season thing. er types of rushes like a bull rush the players will They have a and just try to give our guys an adhave a lot of expassion about vantage.” perience and them and they Two players that should shine on should really be just want to win.” the defensive line when the season able to shine as “Our defensive starts are Romelle Jones and Rana group. linemen feed off don Carnathan. After an injury Both players fit well in the scheme last season and surgery this spring the competition with the offensive line.” defensive line coach Brian of getting after the quarterback and Chris Brunson has come back and Turner said. “Our guys love to talk have done so as far back as high really impressed his coaches and but they better back it up. school. teammates. Also John Griffin will They really are the energy of the And with the 2011 season inchstar on the line despite being underdefense.” ing closer one thing is certain: these sized as a lineman. Another thing the defensive line linemen are ready to be let loose on “John Griffin is smaller than some has in common with the offensive their opponents. There is only so of the other lineman but no one has line is the return of starters and exlong you can keep these monsters a bigger heart,” Coach John Turner perienced players. on the line caged. said. “He has the best technique
“They are winners. They are truly hurt when they lose at anything.”
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USA TRACK AND FIELD ANNOUNCES 2011-12 SCHEDULES The indoor season will consist of four regular-season meets preceding the conference championships, including three visits to Birmingham beginning with the Southern Ice Breaker on Dec. 8, followed by the Birmingham Invitational on Jan. 26, and the Samford Invitational (Feb. 10-11). A week prior to the latter, South Alabama will compete in the Middle Tennessee Invitational in Murfreesboro on Feb. 4 at the Blue Raiders’ Murphy Center, which will also play host to the Sun Belt Conference Indoor Track and Field Championships (Feb. 25-26). Brueske believes the shorter travel distances will benefit his team in the upcoming season. “It’s great that we have scheduled meets in Birmingham, because it is close to home and we won’t have to travel great distances to compete like we have in the past,” Brueske explained. MEN’S TENNIS 2011-12 SCHEDULE RELEASED University of South Alabama men’s tennis team will participate in six fall tournaments and will visit the states of New Mexico and Texas in the spring in the 2011-12 schedule released on Wednesday. The Jaguars will host seven spring dual matches, leading up to the Sun Belt Championships in Denton, Texas. The fall slate opens Sept. 9-11 with the Thomasville Invitational in Thomasville, Ga., followed by a tournament hosted by Southern Miss Sept. 23-25. South Alabama finished the 2011 season with a 9-9 record and reached the finals of the Sun Belt Championships. The team returns six letterwinners, including All-Sun Belt selection Romain Bocaert. JAGUAR SOCCER FALLS TO LOUISIANA TECH IN SEASON OPENER The University of South Alabama soccer team dropped its season opener to Louisiana Tech, 4-0, Friday afternoon at Lady Techster Soccer Field. “It’s a very difficult way to start off the season,” said USA head coach Mike Varga. “I think we’ll bounce back and play a good match on Sunday. The big thing was we allowed them to affect our game more than Louisiana Tech allowed us to affect their game. We made multiple mistakes, and they capitalized by scoring goals; that’s really what it came down to.” The Jags return to action Sunday in their home opener against Southern University at 1 p.m. at The Cage. The Lady Techsters outshot the Jaguars 16-10. Seniors Brandi Smith and Kristin Sutton led USA with two shots a piece. - wire reports
August 22, 2011
Nicknames Worth A Thousand Laughs Jayson Curry Sports Editor Athlete names come in all shapes, sizes, spellings and languages.Some have meanings and stories behind them. Some athletes have weird names, like Pitcher Goose Gossage, some have fitting nicknames like former Auburn Fullback Jake Slaughter. Other athletes have been scarred by their nicknames given to them for any number of reasons. This list is in tribute to these unfortunate men. Enjoy. Colin “Mrs. Doubtfire” Montgomerie - The professional golfer obviously made someone mad to deserve this nickname. Montgomerie is Scottish like the movie character and is a little on the heavy side but he isn’t a cross-dressing nanny. But the worst part about this nickname is when you compare the two pictures, Montgomerie really does look like Mrs. Doubtfire. Maybe after his golfing career he can talk a movie studio into Mrs. Doubtfire 2 starring himself. Brian “The Custodian” Cardinal – Most people probably don’t know who Brian Cardinal is. I honestly had never heard of him until they showed him and his nickname on national TV during the past year’s NBA Finals. The fact that a bench player I have never heard of is worthy of even a bad nickname is horrible to me but to make it even worse it’s the “custodian?” I get it he cleans the boards but seriously? Custodian? Shaun “the Flying Tomato” White – Shaun White is one of the best extreme sports athletes ever. That is a fact but whoever decided to actually call him the “Flying Tomato” must have been joking and we were all crazy enough to take it seriously. Understandably, he has red hair and he flies when he does tricks on his snowboard or skateboard but that nickname does his skill and legacy no justice. Sorry Shaun. “Gentle” Ben Poquette – Ben Poquette was an NBA basketball player during the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. When you’re an athlete and you’re considered “gentle” it’s never a good thing. In Ben’s case he played center and power forward which in basketball means he should be so far from “gentle” it would be dizzying. Ben Poquette was never a household name and I wondered why? Maybe because the sports media don’t hand out gentle awards.
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Lester “the Molester’ Hayes – Hayes is considered to be one of the best cornerbacks in NFL history. He was one of the original cover corners and can be mentioned in the same breathe as greats like Deion Sanders but what a terrible name. I understand as a football player you want to attack your opponents and get into their head but why would you call someone a molester? I wonder how well Hayes handled the news of his new nickname. Probably not so good. Anthony “Booger” Mcfarland – Mcfarland has won two Super Bowls with the Buccaneers and the Colts and is a really solid lineman in the NFL, but who would want a nickname like “Booger?” Even as a defensive lineman who are sometimes referred to a being a “Big Nasty” Mcfarland’s “Booger” nickname brings a whole new meaning. Mark “the Sanchize” Sanchez – Mark Sanchez is a professional football player who was drafted sixth overall two years ago by the New York Jets. Sanchez is the team’s “Franchise” quarterback because they are hoping he can take over their team and take them into the playoffs and into a super bowl. They are counting on him to do it all for them. But to give a rookie the nickname “sanchize” seems a little too extreme, especially when Sanchez wasn’t considered to be that good coming out of college after only starting a year. This nickname could grow to be true in the future. Only time will tell. Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez – Rodriguez is a professional baseball player in the MLB. He is one of the best catchers to ever play, especially in the last
Eric “Butterbean” Esch
two decades. No matter what you do in life and who you are you never want to be known as “Pudge” but especially not as a professional athlete. The only good thing about this name is that in 2004 Rodriguez lost 30 pounds but he will forever be “Pudge.” Eric “Butterbean” Esch – Being Shorter than 6 feet tall and at times heavier than 400 pounds, “Butterbean” has to be one of the most unlikely professional athletes of all time. He is a former boxer turned mixed martial artist and kickboxer. The story behind this nickname is “Butterbean” competed in a tough man contest and the weight limit was 400 lbs. so he had to go on a diet of mostly chicken and butterbeans. I would make more fun of this nickname but for fear my life I can’t. Glen “Big Baby” Davis – Glen Davis is a professional basketball player who plays for the Boston Celtics. Davis has said he has been called “Big Baby” his whole life and there could only be two reasons for that. One reason would be you whine like a baby or act childish. The other reason is that you have always had a baby face. Unfortunately for Davis his nickname is because of both of these reasons. To make it even worse Davis has attempted to change his nickname in the past but there is no way we are letting this name die. Honorable Mention - Tim “the Big Fundamental” Duncan – Being fundamentally sound is a great thing as an athlete but to be considered the “Big Fundamental” is not at the top of See NICKNAMES pg. 27
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Nicknames Cont. from pg. 26
the list of nicknames you would choose for yourself. Especially if you play a position that is more about size and energy than it is about fundamentals. Chad “Ocho Cinco” Ocho Cinco – Formally Chad Johnson is a professional football player who now plays for the New England Patriots. Chad created this name himself while playing for the Cincinnati Bengals. His jersey number is 85 so the logical name for him to give himself is Ocho Cinco which is Spanish for eight-five but not 85. To make it even worse Chad actually got his last name legally changed to Ocho Cinco. What would sports be like without these types of players? And to finish this list, we must address the uncreative nicknames given to some athletes. I understand these nicknames aren’t embarrassing or unwanted but just lack any thought to come up with. Athletes like A-Rod or D-Rose. Is there no creativity in the world of sports? These uncreative names could be the worst of them all.
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Letters to The Editor
August 22, 2011
Frizzle Cont. from pg. 9
Dear Editor: On the morning of August 18th I recieved a special treat and for the rest of the day. I felt the rhythm and energy in my life. I want to thank the USA Marching Band because as I was riding my bike across campus they were playing great music in our new amphitheatre, which is part of the beautiful bell tower, water fountain, and garden facility. I caught them at the perfect time, they were playing “Will You Be My Girl” and they actually laid down the instruments and sang in acappella a good portion of
that song. What an outstanding performance. I hope this is the beginning of many more of these concerts on campus. I look forward to seeing them at the stadium during football season and I believe I can safely say that I will not be making my beer run during halftime when they’re playing. Sincerely, Ernie Seewer Class of ‘75 Retired from USA in January ‘08 Lifetime Membership in USA Alumni
your hand, ask questions. Don’t look back and realize you made a “B” because you had too much stupid pride to ask what was going on. Earn your own way. Get out from under your parents and start supporting yourself. You’ll appreciate your education more, and be way more prepared when you get that little piece of parchment called a degree. There is no reason to be ashamed of making a mistake, just learn from it and move on. If there is any time that you will be able to successfully learn, grow and move on, it’s now. Stop waiting for the future, live in the now. The cards are on the table and the clichés are glaring at you off this page because I bet every one of you reading this feels that you could be doing something more in your life. Go listen to “Lose Yourself” by Eminem, watch some Magic School Bus, and then go make those messy mistakes. Life really is too damn short.
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Vanguard Staff Staff editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com
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