Due South spring 2014

Good Luck, It’s Terminal

Netflix: An Obsession

A Moment with JD Crowe

DUE SOUTH spring 2014 • vol. 3, issue 2

The Hot

New Spot

trends • culture • events

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nspired by the foresight of Abraham A. Mitchell and V. Gordon Moulton, the Mitchell-Moulton Scholarship Initiative Volunteer Leadership Team shares in the vision of accessible, affordable and innovative education that will have a lasting impact on our community. As USA seeks to strengthen its undergraduate endowed scholarships by Jim Yance $50 million, matching funds Steering Committee have been made available

by Abraham A. Mitchell.

Contributions to existing eligible scholarships, or the Carl Moore creation of new endowed University Leader undergraduate scholarships, are matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $25 million. Join us as we work to transform this vision into a realization.

Alec Yasinsac

Cedric Hatcher Volunteer Leader

Mark Hoffman Campaign Chair, Steering Committee

Abraham Mitchell Honorary Chair, Steering Committee

Geri Moulton Honorary Chair, Steering Committee

Joseph F. Busta, Jr. Steering Committee

Ron Franks Steering Committee

G. David Johnson Steering Committee

John Smith Steering Committee

Tony Waldrop Steering Committee

Debra Davis University Leader

Riley Davis University Leader

Richard Hayes University Leader

Doug Marshall University Leader

Vaughn Millner University Leader

John Steadman University Leader

Keith Stephens University Leader

Richard Talbott University Leader

Andrzej Wierzbicki University Leader

Cindy Wilson University Leader

University Leader

Gene Broadus Volunteer Leader

JoAnn Broadus Volunteer Leader

Steve Clements Volunteer Leader

Jim Connors Volunteer Leader

Lulu Crawford Volunteer Leader

George Davis Volunteer Leader

Mike Diehl Volunteer Leader

Jack DiPalma Volunteer Leader

Karen Edwards Volunteer Leader

Mark Fillers Volunteer Leader

Wynne Fuller Volunteer Leader

Dan Grafton Volunteer Leader

Win Hallett Volunteer Leader

Pat Hicks Volunteer Leader

Tony Hughes Volunteer Leader

Jamie Ison Volunteer Leader

Sam Jones Volunteer Leader

Ray Kennedy Volunteer Leader

Kenneth Kvalheim Volunteer Leader

Jim Laier Volunteer Leader

Peter Lindquist Volunteer Leader

If you are interested in supporting MMSI, Bobby Marks Volunteer Leader

Harold Pardue Volunteer Leader

Pat Rodgers Volunteer Leader

Mike Saxon Volunteer Leader

David Singleton Volunteer Leader

Mike Thompson Volunteer Leader

David Trent Volunteer Leader

please contact USA Development and Alumni Relations at (251) 460-7032 or mmsi@southalabama.edu http://www.southalabama. edu/development/mmsi.htm

John Tyson Volunteer Leader

Steven Van Arsdale Volunteer Leader

Skipper Walters Volunteer Leader

Doug Whitmore Volunteer Leader

Cheryl Williams Volunteer Leader

Rich Williams Volunteer Leader

Tommy Zoghby Volunteer Leader

South lost an amazing student this semester.

Christopher Thomas of Dothan, Ala. passed away in March, leaving a hole in South’s heart.

The staff of Due South worked closely with Chris for our last issue. He was pictured in the cover article which featured students who were the “Faces of South.” He was indeed a face of South.

Chris impacted the lives of the students at the university, including us here at Due South.

For this reason, we’ve dedicated this issue to the memory of Chris.

For me, personally, [getting involved] was more of a home away from home.”

– Christopher Thomas

Editor-in-Chief Mary Beth Lursen

mel904@jagmail.southalabama.edu Associate Editor Daniel Moran

k.danielmoran@gmail.com

Associate Editor Tim Borland

trb903@jagmail.southalabama.edu Advertising Manager Justine Burbank

usavanguard@gmail.com

Graphic Designer Ryan Keller

rck1102@jagmail.southalabama.edu

starters 5 2-minute Interview 6 Calendar 8 New + Noteworthy agenda

features

22

10 SWING A new sound for jazz music

12 Crochet Away Not your grandma’s craft

14 Laugh Downtown Comedy at Joe Cain’s Café the creative dept.

18 Tatted Up The new cultural norm?

20 Screenwriting

The University Student Center is back and ready to reign supreme once again as the heart of student life on campus.

28

Netflix: An Obsession

30

Good Luck, It’s Terminal

32

A Moment with JD Crowe

16 USA Film Students Paving the way for art

cover story: The New Hot Spot

Let’s talk about the most important technological advancement of the millennium – Netflix.

The struggles of being a hypochondriac and how to counteract the problems of this “disease.”

The native cartoon artist speaks out about what really makes him mad.

Writing for the big screen

On The Cover The New Hot Spot

by Daniel Moran

Due South is published twice per academic year – once in the fall and once in the spring.

Unless otherwise noted, all content is copyrighted by Due South. Due South is a production of USA Student Media, and does not necessarily reflect the views of The University of South Alabama’s administration.

ed note

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Enjoying Your City

f I’ve heard it once, I’ve heard it a hundred times. “There’s nothing to do in Mobile.” I’m guilty of saying this as well, which is sad considering I’ve lived in this town my whole life. The problem I was having was that I didn’t know where to look. Sure, I knew about a few places, but my friends and I usually have the same haunts. I was afraid to go out of my comfort zone. Maybe you have this same problem. Maybe you’re new to town, and you aren’t sure where to start looking. That’s OK. My staff and I are here to help. We set out this issue to bring you things to do in Mobile and on your campus, and we successfully did that. I can no longer say that there is nothing to do in the Port City.

Mobile boasts more attractions than you may know about. For instance, Mitchell Kahalley unearthed an old school band with a new sound thanks to USA student, Gabriela Merz. Stephanie Feather set out to find a good laugh, and she found it at Joe Cain Café. This pub hosts a comedy show that’s sure to keep you laughing for days. And USA campus has a (somewhat) new and exciting place for you to hang out: the newly renovated Student Center. After years of construction, the student hotspot is ready for when you want to take a break between classes, grab a bite to eat, hang out with friends or catch some much needed Z’s – something members of Due South’s staff have admitted to doing in the old building.

USA students are taking advantage of these places and attractions. Sam Andrews spoke with the USA film students who produced the award-winning film, “The Dreamers.” These students are now using Mobile and South as the canvas for their current films, and we’re excited to see how they turn out. In “Tatted Up,” Ti Stokes talked to some USA students who are exploring the different avenues of body art. Kandace Raybon discovered a screenwriting class here on campus that can help you become the next Academy Award winner.

And if you have your introverted moments like me or if it’s raining, we’ve got you covered with some indoor friendly activities. As Courtney Turner described in “Knot Your Average Craft,” there’s a new rise with our generation in your grandmother’s favorite pasttime – knitting and crocheting. And for those days when you want to avoid homework and binge-watch some Netflix, Jaclyn Lebatard has you covered. In “Netflix: An Obsession,” she asked some of your fellow Jags what are their favorite shows on the popular (and, let’s be honest, life ruining) online streaming website.

So sit back. We’re here to negate all those thoughts of “Man, there’s nothing to do in this city.” We are here to help you find your new hangouts.

Editor-In-Chief, Due South { 04

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INTERVIEW

CALENDAR

INNOVATIONS

starters

minutes with Dr. Tony Waldrop

an interview by Justine Burbank / photo courtesy of Bob Lowry

JB: What was your first job?

TW: Working in a textile mill during summers and holidays while in high school.

JB: Why did you choose to follow a career in education?

TW: It gave me the chance to continue learning as well as working with faculty and students, and it enabled me to contribute in some way to a better quality of life.

JB: What drew you to the University of South Alabama?

TW: I was impressed by the desire of the trustees, administrators, faculty, staff and students, as well as the community, to make the University of South Alabama an even greater university.

JB: What is the best career advice you ever received?

TW: The best advice came from my father who said, “Work hard and do the best you can, no matter how trivial the task.”

JB: What is your favorite food?

DETAILS CAREER: President of University of South Alabama.

TW: Grilled seafood, especially white fish.

JB: Do you have any final thoughts or comments to add?

TW: Julee [my wife] and I are very excited to be part of the Jaguar family. As I’ve said on other occasions, it was the people, more than anything else, that attracted us to South Alabama. Mobile already feels like home to us.

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HOMETOWN: Columbus, N.C., a town of around 500 residents in western North Carolina.

EDUCATION: Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science (1974) and Master of Arts degree in Physical Education (1980) from the University of North Carolina and a Ph.D. in Physiology from the University of North Carolina School of Medicine (1981).

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starters

INTERVIEW

CALENDAR

INNOVATIONS

save the dates community events April

11

to July

PRE-GLO

25

May

3-4

RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN

May

9 - 25

CATS

Centre for the Living Arts’ newest exhibit features billboards to show expansion from the east to west coasts of the U.S.

Mobile Symphony Orchestra dedicates a concert to the “Golden Age” writing team responsible for beloved musicals.

See the award winning musical performed by the Chickasaw Civic Theater for three weekends in May.

Wed. & Thurs. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sun. noon - 5 p.m.

8 p.m. May 3 & 2:30 p.m. May 4 Saenger Theatre

Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m.

Sun. 2 p.m.

Chickasaw Civic Theater

9 - 25

May

PUMP BOYS AND DINETTES The Mobile Theater Guild puts on the popular Broadway show with country western songs. Two weekends in May.

Fri. & Sat. 8 p.m.

Sun. 2 p.m.

Mobile Theater Guild May

30

to June

SPAMALOT

15

Mobile’s Joe Jefferson Players put on the hilarious adaptation of the Monty Python film for three weekends.

Fri. & Sat. 8 p.m.

Sun. 2 p.m.

Joe Jefferson House June

20 - 29

FORBIDDEN BROADWAY Head on down to the Mobile Theater Guild for a night of laughs and songs.

Fri. & Sat. 8 p.m.

Sun. 2 p.m.

Mobile Theater Guild

May

16 - 18

HANGOUT MUSIC FESTIVAL Three days of music on the beaches of Gulf Shores. Featuring The Black Keys, Modest Mouse, Jack Johnson, Bastille and many more.

All Day Gulf Shores June

14

21

TRUCKFIGHTERS The rock band from Sweden is sure to bring the house down at The Soul Kitchen. The power trio has been together for 13 years.

7:30 p.m.

The Soul Kitchen June

I WANT IT ALL BACK A fundraiser concert for people living in our community with HIV/AIDS. Performers include William Murphy III, Dorinda Clark Cole and more.

6 p.m.

Saenger Theatre July

May

17

20 - 29

KITTY CATS The Chickasaw Civic Theater puts on the prequel to the hit musical, Cats. Two weekends in June.

Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m.

Sun. 2 p.m.

Chickasaw Civic Theater August

AARON LEWIS

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BEER FESTIVAL

Previous lead singer of Staind rocks out at The Soul Kitchen with his new solo country music project.

Take your friends and your glass, and head downtown for the annual Dauphin Street Beer Festival.

6:30 p.m.

The Soul Kitchen

6 - 9 p.m.

Downtown Mobile

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datebook SPORTS May 3

May 16 – 19

Sept. 13

1 p.m, 3 p.m. Softball field.

TBA. Key Largo, Fla.

TBA. Ladd Pebbles Stadium.

May 8 – 9

May 21

Sept. 20

Overnight. Muscle Shoals.

TBA. Stanky Field.

TBA. Ladd Pebbles Stadium.

May 9

May 22

Oct. 18

6:30 p.m. Stanky Field.

TBA. Stanky Field.

TBA. Ladd Pebbles Stadium.

May 10

May 23

Oct. 24

6:30 p.m. Stanky Field.

TBA. Stanky Field.

TBA. Ladd Pebbles Stadium.

May 11

May 24

Nov. 15

1 p.m. Stanky Field.

TBA. Stanky Field.

TBA. Ladd Pebbles Stadium.

May 14

May 25

Nov. 28

7 p.m. Mobile Bay.

TBA. Stanky Field.

TBA. Ladd Pebbles Stadium.

May 26

Aug. 17

Sept. 2

All day. Campus-wide.

TBA. Residence Halls.

All day. Campus-wide

July 4

Aug. 17

Oct. 7 - 8

All day. Campus-wide.

TBA. Mitchell Center.

All day. Campus-wide

Mondays

Tuesdays

Thursdays

Alabama Music Box

Serda’s

The Blind Mule

Tuesdays

Wednesdays

Thursdays

B-Bob’s

Serda’s

Satori

Softball vs. Troy

Muscle Shoals: Home of the Hits Trip

Baseball vs. La. Lafayette

Baseball vs. La. Lafayette

Baseball vs. La. Lafayette

Full Moon Paddle on Mobile Bay

Scuba Dive Key Largo, Fla.

Baseball: Sunbelt Conference

Baseball: Sunbelt Conference

Baseball: Sunbelt Conference

Baseball: Sunbelt Conference

Baseball: Sunbelt Conference

Football vs. Mississippi State

Football vs. Georgia Southern

Football vs. Georgia State

Football vs. Troy University

Football vs. Texas State

Football vs. Navy

CAMPUS Memorial Day

July 4th

JagFest Move-in Day

Labor Day

JagFest Campus Fair

Fall Break

WEEKLY Karaoke

Bingo

Trivia

Trivia

Open Mic

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Open Mic

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starters

INTERVIEW

CALENDAR

INNOVATIONS

new+noteworthy EXHIBITS

FACEBOOK.COM/SANDYSTIMPSONMOBILE

The Noble South is a new modern, Southern restaurant opening April 2014 with a focus on locally and regionally sourced ingredients. They take pride in putting a contemporary spin on Southern cuisine. It’s located at 203 Dauphin Street.

The Centre for the Living Arts newest exhibit, PRE-GLO opened on April 11.

The installation is open until July 27 and is the transition into GLOBAL, CLA’s next major nine month initiative which will open in September 2014.

Sponsored locally by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, The Exploreum offers you an IMAX adventure following the iconic monarch butterfly and a quest to understand its migration patterns. For showtimes, visit exploreum.com.

RESTAURANTS

HANGOUTS

Downtown Mobile Alliance and Regions Bank partnered together to bring a bike rental program to Downtown Mobile. If you are interested in renting a bike, stop by the Urban Emporium on Dauphin Street.

MARKET

Market in the Square is back. The market will start on April 26 and run until July 26. Every Saturday morning from 7:30 a.m. to noon, Cathedral Square will be full of fresh produce, lovely soaps and beautiful art. All of the vendors are local owners, and many of the food products are organic – tasty and healthy! Instead of sleeping in on Saturday mornings, try something new.

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A NIGHT OUT

Mobile Swing takes you back in time with old fashioned music and fun dancing. Before you know it you’ll be tapping your toes and moving your hips to the smooth beat. The event recently moved to Friday nights with themed parties held every week.

Past themes include Disney, superheroes and the roaring ‘20s. It’s time for a night out on the town. For more info, visit facebook.com/ MobileSwing.

The Winners Due South held a scavenger hunt last semester to bring awareness to the magazine. The following people were our winners.

by Mary Beth Lursen

2 3

1

4

1. Grand Prize Winner Jordan Pritchett won dinner for six at Bonefish Grill. She took pictures at every clue and posted them on Due South’s facebook page. Congratulations, Jordan!

2. Best Picture Joe Zebrowski won a $50 gift card to Satori Coffeehouse for taking pictures at every clue and having one of the best photos during the competition.

3. Most Jag Spirit Gabrielle Allison won a $50 gift card to Bonefish Grill for taking pictures at every clue and having the most Jaguar spirit in her photo.

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4. Most Outrageous DaRel Richardson won a $50 gift card to Bonefish Grill for taking pictures at every clue and having the most outrageous photo.

agenda

CONCERTS

LEISURE

NIGHTLIFE

SWING into old-style music with a new twist One USA student uses her vocal chops to embrace jazz text by Mitchell Kahalley / photos by Daniel Moran American popular music, such as jazz standards and show tunes, came into shape from 1920 to 1950. Most of the great pop songs of the era were found in musical theater or Hollywood musical film. The most important and influential songs from this period are usually referred to as the great American songbook. SWING is keeping these songs alive. The group is one of the Port city’s only swing bands. While they play some contemporary music, their repertoire is mostly made up of jazz standards SWING came about in the summer of 2010 from Playhouse in the Park, a community theater devoted { 10

to youth productions. Danny Mollise, the director at Playhouse in the Park, was forming a jazz band. He approached Gabriela Merz, a vocal performance major at USA who had been involved with the theater since she was nine-years-old. The two partnered with Scott Jolly, the Playhouse in the Park’s music director, and began playing downtown. The group eventually added Bill Gardner, an upright bassist, and Chris Kern, a drummer.

“We started off with a few gigs. More people started hearing us and we grew from there,” Merz said. “We went from playing bars and places like that to weddings.”

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Before she started singing with the band, Merz had little experience with this type of music. “I’ve always liked singing soul,” she said. “The band had me listen to Aretha Franklin and Ella Fitzgerald. They wanted me to listen to some different stuff. I picked it up fast.”

SWING draws a diverse crowd of people.

“When we play the Haberdasher, we get the hipsters from the Alabama Music Box, to old couples. It’s very diverse,” Merz said.

After playing together for a few years, Merz said the biggest change in the band has been the quality of the musicianship.

“We don’t really practice a lot together. We can feel it when we are playing live. If one of us makes a mistake, the rest of us instinctively know how to cover it up.”

During a typical SWING setlist, the audience may

hear songs like “It’s Only a Paper Moon,” “Stormy Weather” and “The Way You Look Tonight.” Merz attributes the band’s success to the timelessness of this type of music.

“These are standards that people have heard and that they know. They know the themes and they know the tunes,” Merz said.

SWING performs regularly in venues around downtown Mobile and across the bay, such as the Haberdasher, Cafe 615, the Admiral Semmes hotel and the Fairhope Brewery. The band would like to play more shows outside of Mobile.

The band has recorded some demos that can be heard online, but SWING should be heard live to fully experience the music. For the band, recording is not a priority.

“I would be interested, but for the guys, it’s more of a pastime. They do it because they love it,” Merz said.

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agenda

CONCERTS

LEISURE

NIGHTLIFE

Knot your average craft Grandmother’s pasttime is more popular than ever before. text by Courtney Turner / photo by Daniel Moran Do you remember that thing your grandma used to do with all the yarn, needles and hooks? It probably looked like a mess of craziness, but it produced some of the warmest hats and blankets. Crocheting and knitting create crafts and small plushies from yarn with either two needles or a crochet hook. As of late, popular social networking sites have been flooded with people knitting, crocheting and showing off their wares. Websites like Facebook, Pinterest, Tumblr, Ravelry and YouTube have helped heighten the popularity of yarn working by offering interesting patterns, help and funny memes to regain the interest in working with yarn.

It’s come a long way since our ancestors using it to make clothing. Students and young mothers have turned to crocheting and knitting as a stress reliever or break from the Internet and ‘hard thinking.’ Most say they got introduced into yarn work through family or friends, “I actually got into crocheting because while planning my daughter’s Legend of Zelda themed first birthday party, I saw an Amigurumi Navi online. I decided I had to learn to make it,” Lindsey Glenn said.

Differences in perspectives draw on the battle between knitting and crocheting. “I like knitting more than crocheting because I think it looks neater and I don’t have to be constantly watching what I am doing,” USA student Madeline Kreamer said. { 12

Crocheting and knitting can be pretty cheap; it’s an easy way to relieve stress, and a quick way to earn a few extra bucks with websites like Etsy. Once you get the hang of it, it’s easy to multi-task. “I can do it while watching television, and after a year of doing it I can crochet without really paying attention to it,” Sarah Tokazowski, music major at ECU, said. It’s a great stress reliever. As you are making knots and pulling the yarn tight you forget most of what’s troubling you at the time. Plus, it gives your hands something to do while you are bored and need to fidget. If you are a completist, then post your finished projects up on the Internet for sale. Show it off to your family and friends just to see if they’d be willing to throw some extra scratch for it.

There are a few downsides. Your hands might hurt and cramp up, you might get frustrated with it and the yarn fairies might knot it up before it gets to your hand.

Sometimes people may bug you to make free things for them, or you may become addicted to buying yarn. Many are so soft and cuddly you cannot deny the need to buy them.

Working with yarn can be a stress reliever. It can ease anxiety before an exam, give you a break from your thousand-word paper, and even help you settle down when you are feeling nervous. And if you like what you make, sell it on the Internet and make a few bucks.

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agenda

CONCERTS

LEISURE

NIGHTLIFE

Mobile goes Bonkerz for comedy A world of laughter is waiting for you downtown text and photos by Stephanie Feather You wouldn’t believe what happened to me last night.

Be warned! The show I witnessed was not for the faint of heart. Comedians can be raunchy, but that is half the fun. Where else, besides a frat house, will you hear crude comments on current events and dirty jokes?

Held inside Joe Cain’s Café on select Fridays and Saturdays each month, audiences can enjoy a free show of gut-busting comedy. The Joe Cain Café at the Battle House Hotel has hosted comedians in conjunction with the established Bonkerz chain of comedy clubs since 2010.

“I do like the place and I think the free comedy shows are a hidden gem of downtown,” USA alumnus William Hudson said. “It is surprising that there isn’t a line out the door.”

“I like that it’s free,” Mobilian Alex Evans said. “I’ve been to many other comedy shows that you have to pay to get in. These shows are just as entertaining, but free.”

I have been to the club many times, and have enjoyed their fully stocked bar and the pub menu is full of tasty treats like pizza and subs.

I’m not the only one who enjoys the menu selections. Many members of the audience enjoy a dinner along with the show. “They have pretty good food; I really like the pizza,” Evans said.

What keeps me coming back is the comedy. I attended a show recently where the crowd started out small. As people passing by heard the laughter, they started strolling in.

“I like Bonkerz because it has good food and drinks. With a group, it is a great night out,” local resident Andrea Tenorio said.

The shows usually have two acts, { 14

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the opener and the headliner. The opening acts are funny in their own right, but these comedians are not as established as the headliner. In my experience at this comedy club, the openers are hit or miss.

This show was good one. Tommy O’Neill was the opening act, and was able to get the audience rolling. O’Neill is a young and energetic

comedian from Orlando, Fla. and a Bonkerz club regular. He jumped up on the stage and tried to get everyone riled up by greeting the crowd.

“How are you all doing tonight?” he yelled out with a booming voice. A few woots and claps were his answer.

“Oh come on. How are you all doing tonight?” Louder applause this time.

He then entertained the audience with an impression of an asthmatic beatboxer. Imagine the musical noise a beatboxer has to make with his mouth continuously. Now imagine this beatboxer having to pause to get air frequently.

O’Neill showed us what this would be like. He bent over and beatboxed into the microphone, and then took many long exasperated wheezes.

The crowd loved his impression and roared with applause as he continued.

His jokes were quirky and fun, and this was just the warm up act. He then introduced the headliner James Yon, the host of “Viral Breakdown” on the Dish Network. Yon has been traveling all over the U.S. in Bonkerz comedy clubs.

I admit I have seen Yon perform at Joe Cain Café before, and although some jokes were familiar, I still found them funny. Yon has a blend of comedy that is part relationship advice and part “You wouldn’t believe what happened to me last night!”

“Relationships are hard,” Yon said. He tells the audience that he thinks women have it easier than men. Cue groans of denial from many of the women in the room. Yon claims that certain holidays such as Valentines Day are designed just for women’s benefit. He goes on to recount an interesting night with his { due south

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wife on Valentine’s Day. Let’s just say it involved some hot wax and a dining room table.

Yon recounts some of the women he dated before settling down with his wife. He had the dumb beautiful girlfriend who embarrassed him in public, the African princess who sings “The Lion King” song in bed, and a 300 pound stripper. The last story left me with an image I cannot get out of my head.

The audience can never be sure what they are in for at the comedy club, but they will have a fun night and maybe go a little ‘bonkerz’ themselves.

Admission is free and shows are for adults 21 and over. For more information about upcoming shows, visit their website alabama.bonkerzcomedy.com.

the creative dept.

PERFORMANCE

ART

LITERATURE

PHOTO BY: SAM ANDREWS

USA film students step it up a notch How the students started and what they’re doing now text by Sam Andrews Cliques don’t mix. But, what would happen if they did? Five USA communication students pictured this scenario for the plot of their short film, “The Dreamers.”

A nerd, an athlete, a burnout, a hot chick and her best friend find they’re all dreaming of more.

“It’s something everyone can relate to,” Steven Spears, one of the creators, said. “You can always find yourself in one of those people.”

The title, “The Dreamers,” was taken from a line within the film that ties in its universal meaning. { 16

The young adults lounge around a beach bonfire at night. They talk about their great hopes and plans for life.

Then one character asks the same question so many of us fear: “I feel like in the world, there’s doers and there’s dreamers, you know. What if we’re just the dreamers?”

The five communication students’ dream of film success swiftly turned into reality.

The 18-minute film won Short Film of the Year in the 2013 Mobile Bay Art & Music Awards, hosted by local arts and entertainment publication Mod Mobilian.

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PHOTO: © SWEET LIGHT IMAGING MELODY BRICKHOUSE 2014 SWEETLIGHTIMAGING.WORDPRESS.COM

Trey Lane, editor of Mod Mobilian, explained that media outlet’s uniqueness stems from its focused on culture in our immediate area and along the Gulf Coast.

“Winning a MODDY is like a stranger buying you a drink and saying ‘I know about you. Keep up the good work,’” Lane said.

Spears, together with Melody Brickhouse, Dylan Glass, Stuart Sox and Erin Weninegar dubbed their film production team Prestige Worldwide during Dr. Steven Rockwell’s fall 2013 Video Field Production course. The team lightheartedly took up the name from the comedic movie “Step Brothers,” starring Will Ferrell.

Prestige Worldwide’s first production, “X & Y,” took its audience on an emotional ride. In the simplest form, a woman ends her relationship with a man just as he decides to pro-

PHOTO BY: MARY BETH LURSEN

pose. Sox admitted the team pursued that “visceral, inner turmoil” that comes after a breakup.

“After doing X & Y, I realized this is what I want to do,” Sox said, “make something out of nothing, make it my own creation, make it beautiful.”

This semester, the original team has been divided and integrated with other students, but maintains their same momentum.

The students’ latest lesson in their filmmaking pursuit has been recreating scenes from other movies.

The scenes chosen were from “The Big Lebowski,” “Tombstone,” “Zoolander,” “500 Days of Summer” and “The Breakfast Club.”

Professor of communication, Dr. Richard Ward said the point of the exercise is to “notice the subtleties” of complex scenes that students would not otherwise notice. { due south

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There is a dedication and focus that Ward sees in his class that he hopes is a sign of the communication department’s direction.

“Or else, I feel sorry for the class that has to follow these students,” he joked.

Brickhouse claims one of her greatest experiences as a digital media student has been synchronizing her love of photography and music to create film this year.

“From the first script meeting until exporting the final product, creating a film is a rollercoaster. And not the little kind at the fair. No, the inside-out, upside-down, I-think-I might-die-but-this-is-really-fun kind of rollercoaster,” Brickhouse said.

These filmmakers are determined to prove themselves as both dreamers and doers.

the creative dept.

PERFORMANCE

ART

LITERATURE

Tatted up: The cultural norm?

USA students consider the art and stigma behind decorating your body text by Ti Stokes An electric open sign hums off the neon open sign hanging on orange pitted, white burglar bars. Aloof and indifferent, Tyler Betancourt leans against a wall next to the sign.

Taking slow drags on his cigarette and fiddling with his black iPhone, Tyler appears to be an average 21-year-old. But he is not. What makes Tyler Betancourt different hides underneath his faded hoodie, torn skinny jeans and the shabby overgrowth of his shaven head. He is unique due to patterns of pigment beneath layers of his skin. He is a tattoo artist with 50 percent of his body covered in tattoos. He is a part of the newest generation of tattooed America who face discrimination.

As early as the 1950s, a tattoo could brand an individual as a deviant. Tattoos could force their wearer into social ostracization and even damn them to hell. Tattoos were associated with criminals, the mentally insane and religious zealots. Because of America’s social advancements, tattoos and tattoo culture are becoming more accepted in day-to-day life.

The culture of body modification is now a normal part of American society. People of all walks of life are tattooed, and tattooed people are depicted positively in media.

Popularization by clothing lines like Ed Hardy and television shows

like TLC’s “Miami Ink” has brought tattoo culture into mainstream media. The normalization of this subculture has increased tolerance of the inked lifestyle.

“It can be looked at as a glorification of your body, which by law, is your possession,” Ariel O’Hern, sophomore communication major, said. “So why should anyone judge you or hold you back when it does not affect them. I don’t see why it should be looked at any differently than wearing a tasteful or distasteful outfit.”

“It’s definitely more acceptable.

[Society] seems to be extending the acceptance of where you are tattooed, as long as it’s hidden,” Lauren Kowal, senior graphic design major, said.

Joshua Cane, USA alumnus, agrees that being tattooed is more acceptable in American society but thinks tattooing is slightly counter culture. “It still has a rebellious quality to it, but long gone are the days where tattoos were viewed as just for gang members and sailors,” Cane said.

Early in the history of tattooing as an institution in America many tattoo artists used their art form as a way to rebel against social norms.

Tyler continues this tradition as a fellow tattoo artist.

He finishes his cigarette, thump{ 18

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ing the cherry red butt away. He turns and swings open the loose door to Electronic Adrenaline, a local computer repair shop, LAN gaming center and Internet cafe. With a heavy sigh, he slumps into a chair.

He folds his pale hands. His skinny fingers are decorated with alchemy symbols. The top of his fist is a suave side profile of Satan.

“It’s definitely become more acceptable to be tattooed, but heavily tattooed people are still prejudiced by older generations,” he said.

Tyler folds in onto himself more.

He crosses his arms and the sleeves of his jacket rise gently. His wrist is visible, revealing swirling smoke from the burning incense of a plague doctor. “I’ve never faced direct prejudice but I have had angry glares and looks of disgust.”

“Visible tattoos make it harder to get jobs, I had to cover up to get work. The throats, hands and face generally are unacceptable in any fashion,” he said, not taking his eyes away from his phone. He finally breaks eye contact with his phone when asked why he choose to become heavily tattooed, why he choose to deal with the social strife. Head bowed and shoulders shrugged, Tyler chuckled, “I like tattoos.”

PHOTO BY: TI STOKES

PHOTO BY: DANIEL MORAN

PHOTO BY: TI STOKES

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PHOTO BY: DANIEL MORAN

the creative dept.

PERFORMANCE

ART

LITERATURE

I’d like to thank the academy Five easy tips on how to pen the next big screenplay for the silver screen text by Kandace Raybon / photo by Ryan Keller & Daniel Moran In my freshman seminar class this past fall, my professor Dr. Perez-Piñeda asked the class this question: “Where do you see yourself in 10 years?” When my turn came, with arms crossed and nose in the air, I said, “I’m going to be an Academy Award-winning screenwriter.” A little ambitious, but the point of the exercise was to think big, so that’s what I did. The fact that I was also taking Thomas Lakeman’s screenwriting class here at South that semester might have impacted my answer.

To actually win an Academy Award for screenwriting, one important thing has to happen. You have to actually write a screenplay. Here are a few simple steps to get you started.

1. WRITE: “Find an approach that works for you and don’t let yourself off the hook for it,” Lakeman said.

He says it does not matter if you write on notepads throughout the day, wake up before daybreak and write 3,000 words or churn through all-nighters on Red Bull.

Just do it consistently or your “machine will break down.”

2. GET ADVICE: Taking a class on screenwriting or joining a writers’ group will definitely help improve your skill, as Steven Spears discovered in the same scriptwriting course. “It was an awesome class. I had no idea what I was doing in the beginning but by the end, Thomas made me feel like I could be churning out movie scripts like a factory!”

3. INVEST: If you want to churn out scripts, you have to buy the right tools. Final Draft screenwriting software is the industry standard. If you are serious about screenwriting, invest in it. “Believe it or not, many studios and agents will not accept a script unless it’s written in Final Draft,” Lakeman said. Final Draft 9 is available for computers and for the iPad for $29.99.

4. SHOP: “Aim to write a script that you yourself would buy for a million dollars. Earn your own excite-

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ment and admiration first. Then it’s easier to get others on board,” Lakeman said. There are many ways for others to get involved, such as getting an agent or submitting to competitions. “Competitions can be a great motivator ... but don’t get de-motivated if you don’t win. All judging is subjective,” Lakeman said. The Nicholl Fellowship is the most well-known screenwriting competition. The Disney Fellowship, Scriptapalooza and Nickelodeon Writers Program are the major television writing competitions.

5. GET AN AGENT: “Only if you think breathing is necessary. Agents are very good at reminding you to breathe,” Lakeman said. “Query and secure an agent who will then use his or her own array of contacts. When asking for representation, never send your entire screenplay.

Just send a brief one-page description of the screenplay.”

Now, you’ve got the tips, and you just need to start writing. Who knows? Maybe one day we will be competing in Best Original Screenplay category at the Oscars.

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2014-2015 SEASON

!

S K OC

R

Opening nigHT September 13 & 14, 2014 MAd Men: SinATrA And THe pACk October 11 & 12, 2014

JW iol l hi a mns

BeeTHOven & Blue JeAnS November 15 & 16, 2014 An AppAlACHiAn CHriSTMAS December 13 & 14, 2014 AMeriCAn MASTerS: AArOn COplAnd January 17 & 18, 2015

MSO Rocks and Windborne Music presents: The Music of Whitney Houston: A Celebration

BACk TO BACH February 21 & 22, 2015

Thursday, July 24, 2014 8 p.m. – Saenger Theater

ruSSiAn rOMAnCe May 9 & 10, 2015

Tickets on sale May 5 Call 251-432-2010 or mobilesymphony.org

FrOM TrAgedy TO TriuMpH March 21 & 22, 2015 THe MuSiC OF JOHn WilliAMS April 11 & 12, 2015

For season tickets, call 251-432-2010 To download the 2014-2015 Season brochure, visit mobilesymphony.org Follow the Mobile Symphony!

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Scott Speck, conductor

All concerts are held in the beautiful Saenger Theatre in downtown Mobile.

The New Hot Spot

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The University Student Center is back and ready to reign supreme once again as the heart of student life on campus. text by Catherine Buttrey photos by Daniel Moran

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JAGUAR PRODUCTIONS WILL ONCE AGAIN BE HOUSED IN THE STUDENT CENTER. NOT ONLY WILL THE ORGANIZATION HAVE SPACE FOR THEIR DAILY ACTIVITIES AND OFFICE SPACE FOR THEIR EXECUTIVE BOARD, BUT THEY WILL ALSO FEATURE A NEW TICKET WINDOW FOR PURCHASING ALL OF THEIR DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR MOVIES, THE SYMPHONY AND MORE.

The heart of every college is the student center. For three years, USA’s heart was under reconstruction. But now, after extensive renovation, the student center boasts all of the fundamentals of the communal hub on campus. Students will love the building for many reasons. While the center always hosted spots for students to meet up, eat, study and even sleep, these areas have been updated. “The student center used to be such a cool place,” DJ Pogue, USA senior, said. “My friends and I used to go there all the time to study or just hang out. I can’t wait to get back there.”

While the student center was

being revamped, students were left looking for places to socialize. The library was too quiet. The cafeteria was too small, and the other food vendors could be unconvenient. That has changed thanks to the central location and refurbishment of the student center.

Although many of the original features have been restored, new ones are in place. By repurposing the old student center built in 1971, the university retained the original integrity and charm of the structure. Older students will recognize the iconic brick floors and impressive staircases, but the furniture is more comfortable and modern while { 24

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complementing the exisiting architecture. Although the game room was removed, new assets take its place including free Wi-Fi. Online gamers will be able to play alongside their friends instead of using coins for outdated arcade cabinets. The ballroom is much larger, and there are more meeting rooms for clubs. Two of the meeting rooms are enclosed with glass to give impressive views of daily campus life and offer plenty of light.

“The ballroom and conference rooms are a great opportunity for student organizations to hold meetings or events on campus for free,” USA senior Kassy Seale said. “My sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta, will hold

COURTESY OF RACHAEL BOLDEN

After

Before

LEFT: BEFORE, THE OLD STUDENT CENTER SEATING AREA WITH WALLS ADORNED WITH CORKBOARDS FOR INFORMATION. RIGHT: NOW, THE FIRST FLOOR OF THE BUILDING HAS MORE AMBLE AND COMFORTABLE SEATING THROUGHOUT THE FIRST FLOOR SO SEARCHING FOR A SEAT WILL BE A THING OF THE PAST. LEFT: BEFORE, THE CAFE AREA WAS A CONVENIENT SPOT TO GRAB A BITE TO EAT OR TAKE A BREAK BETWEEN CLASSES. RIGHT: NOW, THE CAFE FEATURES THE SAME MODOERN AND COMFORTABLE FURNITURE AS THE REST OF THE BULDING. IT’S ALSO LOCATED CLOSE TO THE OFFICES OF STUDENT LIFE AND JAGUAR PRODUCTIONS. COURTESY OF RACHAEL BOLDEN

After

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PICTURED ABOVE: THE SECOND FLOOR HAS BEEN DECKED OUT WITH MULTIPLE MEETING ROOMS, COMPLETE WITH SEATING FOR LARGE GROUPS.

meetings and chapter events in the ballroom during the summer.”

Previously, the only option for food was the coffeeshop. In addition to the coffeeshop, students can now find a Provisions on Demand (P.O.D.) for any last-minute needs.

Throughout the whole café area, the hard chairs and stools have been replaced with comfy furniture. It’s a perfect and suitable place to chow down.“The student center will be really convenient to go and eat,” Drew Romano, USA freshman, said.

“Sometimes, in between classes, I don’t have enough time to get back to my room to get anything done, but the student center is right in the mid-

dle of campus. So I can go there and get a quick study session in or go to the computer lab and get some work done,” Erik Porter, USA freshman, said. The computer lab has been upgraded with new equipment for students’ use. There are now more spots for students to grab a chair and open a book. Or sleep.

Students aren’t the only ones finding their way back to the heart of campus. The offices of Student Affairs, Academic Services, Jaguar Productions, Greek Life, Multicultural Affairs and other student activity associations will be conveniently located in the student center.

The Student Government As{ 26

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sociation suite will return with new executive offices and conference rooms. “The student center allows for our SGA meetings to be more professional and technologically advanced.

By making the student center our home, SGA hopes to engage Jags in the process of student government and form a closer bond,” Ravi Rajendra, USA freshman, said.

It’s clear the students of the University of South Alabama are again rediscovering the heart of their campus. Rajendra said it best. “The new student center is definitely something worth saying ‘Go Jags’ to!”

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EPISODEGENERATOR.COM

PARKTHATCAR.NET

Netflix

AN OBSESSION

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FANPOP.COM

Let’s talk about the most important technological advancement of the millennium— Netflix.

D

on’t pretend you don’t know how right I am. My internet best friend is influencing everything from broadcast television business models to my sleep schedule. And I am not complaining. Netflix treats me like the queen I am. It plays what I want, when I want it. We have never had a fight.

You are probably the same way, looking forward to the rainy days when you can draw the blinds, grab some tortilla chips and stare at your laptop screen for an unhealthy stretch of time. I fully support you.

The trick to enjoying a bingewatching session is selecting the perfect show. I mean, you will be watching this show all day long.

That’s a huge commitment. And let’s face it—we are watching Netflix all day because we have serious commitment issues.

So here are a few binge-worthy Netflix series, handpicked by fellow Jaguars.

Let’s start with one that’s definitely going to keep you under your superhero sheets—probably out of fear of the outside world. Connor Read’s pick is “House.” An intense medical drama, this show follows the lives of the eccentric, drug-addicted Dr. Gregory House and his team of medical geniuses. The professionals usually encounter patients with unbelievable, and sometimes ridiculous, maladies. Read, a biomedical sciences major, said the best part of House is, “… trying to figure out what the patient is really suffering from

before someone else.” Or you could be like moi and sit confused until the end of the episode.

Next, take a trip to the Upper East Side and get a healthy dose of guilty pleasure television. “Don’t judge me,” Chelsea Parkes said as she revealed her favorite Netflix show, “Gossip Girl.” Based on the series by Cecily von Ziegesar, this drama spotlights the stories of a group of friends from a Manhattan private school. A little romance, a bit of espionage, a lot of attractive people—this show will hook you and leave you with no choice but to ride all six seasons to the surface for air.

Making a move into the magic that is the sitcom, Marcus Nobles was not kidding when he referred to his pick “The League” as a total guy show. Watch as a group of friends fight through the drama that apparently accompanies a fantasy football league. The show is a bit raunchy, but may remind you of guys you know.

You might even be inspired to start a league with the craziest people you can find.

One of those crazies should definitely be Tom Haverford, who stars in Leora Crompton’s pick, “Parks and Recreation.” Nothing will strengthen your faith in your local government quite like Leslie Knope’s passion for community gardens. This ragtag group of government officials does their best to improve Pawnee with a series of misguided efforts. Following the same mockumentary format as shows like “The Office,” “Parks and Rec” has interesting characters with { due south

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IMPAWARDS.COM

text by Jaclyn LeBatard

ridiculous personalities There’s never a dull moment at McLaren’s in my favorite show, “How I Met Your Mother.” This king of sitcoms takes the “Friends” formula and runs with it. Dangerously. With scissors. The most awkward dad in the history of television recounts all of his pre-marriage shenanigans to his kids who are probably questioning every lesson he has ever tried to teach them. The complicated relationships shared by this group of New Yorkers make for insane situations that always seem to bring them closer. Never ask me if I want to watch “HIMYM.” The answer is always yes.

So gather your friends and snacks, and settle in for a long weekend of awesome couch potatoing.

Netflix may bleed your productivity dry, but she’ll feed your soul. Happy watching, fellow addicts.

GOOD LUCK, IT’S TERMINAL

“Honestly, seeing the word ‘strep’ written out on paper makes my throat hurt,” Erik Porter, freshman chemistry major, said. text by Catherine Buttrey / comic by Ryan Keller / photos by Ryan Keller & Daniel Moran We all have that friend who is in a constant, almost neurotic fit over new symptoms and ailments. A person who simply cannot take ‘no’ for an answer, and jumps from doctor to doctor in search of a diagnoses to some traumatic unknown disease that no other human being has ever experienced. You know, those health obsessed nutcases who diligently seek answers to the imaginary symptoms they have concocted in their own minds. { 30

We are those lunatics.

Hypochondria is common and can affect a variety of people. Men, women, old, young - we can all fall victim to obnoxious paranoia. Fear not! In coming to terms with my own irrational fixations on my physical and mental health, I have learned many tricks of the trade. By comparing notes with other victims, I have discovered many loopholes and tricks to calming the mind and healing the due south }

pocketbook. So, if you suspect that you too may have iffy concerns in regards to your health, you have come to the right place. Explore this list of pro-tips from self-diagnosed hypochondriacs.

1. Freshman Maya Packer claimed, “If you’re like me, you shouldn’t waste time at a doctor’s office. We know better than the doctor anyway.” Regardless of the professional’s diagnosis you will always have a better one.

Also, there is the matter of prescription medication. If you are a true hypochondriac, you would rather avoid the side effects that might follow stomaching those pills.

2. Remember, WebMD is a beautiful creation and hypochondriac essential. “The internet can change a hiccup into mad cow disease,” Ashley Deville, sophomore engineering major, said. The most glorious thing about symptom databases like this would have to be how grim the results always turn out. You have back pain? Definitely kidney failure. Crooked smile? Nerve damage. Cramp?

Your appendix is bursting. As drastic and potentially devastating as these answers might seem to a mentally stable individual, for us these answers are a godsend. It is as if finally someone understands. While your doctors, friends, and family shake their heads at you and roll their eyes in disregard to your health neuroses, you will always have the internet to comfort you.

3. Don’t check! As for moles, cuts, pupils, et cetera, just go ahead and assume they’re all wrong. Hypochondriacs have a tendency to check over and over again, and we have a habit of driving ourselves insane. “Actually, you know if you keep feeling your lymph nodes to see if

they’re swollen they actually get irritated and swell up,” junior Dedra Sanders said. So do yourself a favor, and retain your sanity by not looking.

4. An arsenal of bleach, assorted sanitizers, wet wipes or any other form of germ slaughtering weaponry should be easily accessible at all times so that you can calm your anxiety over the surfeit of germs that seem to be lurking around every corner and crevice waiting for the opportune moment to jump you. USA student Marley Houser admitted, “To be honest, if I could swallow GermX, I would.” Instead of living your life in constant fear of what could be, simply annihilate your worries. However, swallowing Germ-X should be reserved as a last resort.

5. AVOID PEOPLE. All people, sick or otherwise, are a danger to your sanity. If someone coughs? You will catch pneumonia, no doubt! A coworker scratches an itch? In a matter of seconds, you will develop severe hives or shingles or West Nile! If avoiding humanity is not plausible for your lifestyle, just remember: don’t touch them, drink after them or breathe the same air. Humans are all disease infested, dirty mongrels.

So if in reading this, you too feel like you can relate and that maybe you need to self-diagnose, do not hesitate. You are not alone in this mental epidemic and there’s no better time to diagnose than today. As a matter of fact, I think I just came down with a bug. The flu?

Ebola? Salmonella? Malaria? Let’s see what the internet has to say…

NOTE: WE ARE NOT DOCTORS. THIS IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE ANY MEDICAL ISSUES REAL OR NOT.

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closing remarks

Sustainability on campus What you can be doing to make the environment better for us all text by Jaclyn LeBatard / graphic by Ashley Fiveash When was the last time you saw, much less used, a recycling bin? If you live on campus, it’s probably been a while. The idea of recycling rarely crosses my mind organically.

The only occasion it does is when my dorm room is overrun with copies of The New York Times. When there is no longer room to move, I load up my car, drop the multiple bags off at a recycling receptacle and forget about it for another six months.

The Enivornmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that every day each of us generates about 4.38 pounds of trash while we only bothered to recycle 1.51 pounds. That’s a lot of Mountain Dew cans and Zebra Cake wrappers.

Does this statistic apply to you?

Is your trash can overrun with items that should be going somewhere else? Like I said, I am 100% guilty.

I do not recycle, and I generate way too much waste. But what can I do?

Even better, what can we all do to make this campus more sustainable?

Two student-run organizations are working on some answers.

Angela McGaugh, secretary of

the USA Sustainability Council, grew up recycling and was surprised at the lack of sustainable practices on campus. “It was a huge shock to me that there are no recycling bins in the residence halls, where the majority of waste on campus is produced,” McGaugh said, “and that students just throw away so many items that can be recycled and reused.”

McGaugh and the rest of the Student Sustainability Council are working to initiate a program that will put recycling bins in every residence facility on campus. Student recycling efforts may increase if the practice is more accessible.

The Council also has its sights set on a possible on-campus community garden to create in collaboration with community organizations like Home Grown and Food Ecology Network.

Jessica Frank, a graduate environmental toxicology student, founded the Food Ecology Network in the fall of 2013 in the hopes of “connecting individuals within the community who have interests in sustainable food ecology with each other and to resources within the { 34

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field.” The organization focuses on conceptualizing food production and distribution as an ecological system that connects disciplines like soil and water sciences, genetics, economics and public health.

Frank believes a campus community garden maintained by students could be used as a classroom for nutrition science while also providing an opportunity for students to exercise responsibility and develop healthy eating habits.

Neither of these organizations will be successful without the support of the university community. So get involved by contacting the USA Sustainability Council on Facebook or Twitter @GreenJags and the Food Ecology Network on Facebook or by email foodecologynetwork@gmail. com.

South Alabama students are lucky to have such a beautiful campus, and we should all work together to maintain and improve our surroundings. Sustainability is, and will always be, our responsibility.

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