ugazine Summer 2013
Volume 44, Issue 3
HOW TO:
Pack an Athens Picnic page 6
UNWRAPPED Scarves in Solidarity page 18
8
Destinations For A Vacation On Campus
page 9
Burnin’ rubber
Twilight 2013 page 28
ugazine Summer 2013
Volume 44, Issue 3
HOW TO:
Pack an Athens Picnic page 6
UNWRAPPED Scarves in Solidarity page 18
on the cover 8 Pictured: Najla Abdulelah, sophomore and co-founder of Scarves in Solidarity, at the University of Georgia Spec Towns Track. Photographer: Ersta Ferryanto
2
ugazine
summer 2013
Destinations For A Vacation On Campus
page 9
burnin’ rubber
Twilight 2013 page 28
contents
summer 2013
IN PROFILE Gingham Style: Picnic Time in Athens 6
LIFESTYLE Athens Summer Staycation 9 Shifting Gears: A More Sustainable UGA 11 Wayfaring Strangers 12 Scarves in Solidarity 18 Bon Voyage: Tips for Studying Abroad 22
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT UGAuthors: Published Reads from UGA 24 The Man Behind the Artists 26
CAMPUS LENS Twilight 2013 28
BEYOND THE ARCH The Paw Plan 32 Into the Wake: UGA Wake Dawgs Share the Sport 34
georgiaugazine.com
3
ugazine editor-in-chief Margaret Harney art director Lauren Greene photo editor Damien Salas assistant photo editor Lexi Deagen copy editors Caitlyn Daniels, Cassie Kaye contributing editors Gina Borg, Amanda Dixon, Nicole Galoncyzk, Cassie Kaye, Jessica Sooknanan writers Sara Porch, Jacqueline Rehe, Kennington Groff, Kiersten Willis, Gabe Cavallero, Kelly Mattick, Katie Thigpen, Shannon Adams, Cassie Kaye, Claire Ruhlin photographers Ersta Ferryanto, Damien Salas, Lexi Deagen, Cassie Kaye, Margaret Harney, Chad Hermann contact faculty adviser Joe Dennis, jodennis@uga.edu advertising representative Patrick Stansbury mailing address Box 271 Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication Athens, GA 30605 website www.georgiaugazine.com email ugazine@gmail.com
Ugazine is published four times a year with sales from advertising revenue. Ugazine is printed by University Printing. For advertising information, please contact Patrick Stansbury, Pentagon Publishing, ps@pentagon-usa.com
4
ugazine
summer 2013
letter from the editor
I want to live in a world that is blind. When I met the hijab-adorned founders of Scarves in Solidarity for the first time, I saw their world, where it was possible to see past manifold differences. I realized almost immediately that I was meeting a group of unique individuals who looked and saw a better world. I thought their scarves—so brightly colored and patterned—weren't sirens of conspicuousness but symbols of the commitment to themselves and to shaping a tomorrow that unites rather than separates. For the first summer issue of Ugazine, we wanted to bring you pages full of fun: wakeboarding on the water (page 24), snapshots from the Twilight race (page 28) and good summer reads by UGA's very own (page 26). But we also wanted to have a conversation about our constantly changing community and the way Athens continues to see past problems to come to good solutions; the new bike initiative (page 11) and ways to be an animal activist (page 32) seemed like a good places to start. Even though the magazine medium isn't so adaptable to a non-visual world, we hope to bring to your summer the kind of good moments that just feel better with your eyes closed; the first bite of a handcrafted burger (page 6), the sun on your face as you float down river (page 9) and, most of all, forgetting appearances and making new friends that will change the world.
georgiaugazine.com
5
Gingham Style It’s Summertime (and Picnic Time) in the Classic City If there’s anything to conjure images of summer faster than you can snap a beach selfie, it’s the idea of an open field, a red checkered blanket and a basket full of goodies. Factoring in that summer studies mean being locked down staring wistfully at the blue sky outside the window, we at Ugazine are into study break reprieves, so consider this trio of Athens favorites our gift to your rumbling, class-bound stomach. We can’t promise you’ll get your chemistry homework done any faster, but sinking your teeth in a burger or two is just the antidote to your 9 a.m. class blues. By Kennington Groff | photography by damien salas and lexi deagen
Clocked 259 W Washington Street www.clockeddiner.com If the retro diner feel of the red chairs and tables, checkered floor and vintage superhero posters on the wall aren’t a sign that you’re about to experience food the old-fashioned—albeit good—way, then take it from locals that Clocked is a must-have dining stop. Winner of Athens Festival’s Favorite Local Burger award two years in a row, Clocked serves up food made wholesome; organic and natural all the way, the diner on Washington boasts ingredients free of antibiotics, hormones, pes-
6
ugazine
summer 2013
ticides and other additives that would placate even the pickiest of eaters. For those in search of picnic-ready summer foods, owner David Zwart has you covered. “You have to order our Backyard BBQ burger with homemade Carolina BBQ sauce and our vinegar based southern coleslaw to go along with it,” says Zwart. And for the non-burger lovers, Zwart suggests the Detroit hot dog, a masterpiece of chili and cheese that’s always served up hot, and irresistible dessert
options. “A blackberry milkshake would be nice and refreshing,” says Zwart. “Or a slice of Oreo mint chip ice cream pie.” With a Bell’s Oberon wheat beer on one of the picnic benches and Sriracha at your fingertips, Clocked’s downtown location is just a short walk from North Campus and one bite is guaranteed to make you forget about your class work—but we’ll let the 18 made-freshto-order burgers on the menu speak for themselves.
in profile
White Tiger 217 Hiawassee Avenue kenmanring.wix.com/whitetiger
Big City Bread
A trip off the beaten path to the Boulevard Historic District for White Tiger—the cozy BBQ, burger and sandwich joint built inside a 100-year old grocery store—is a must, even if it’s just to take a whiff of the tantalizing slow-cooked BBQ smoking on the grill. With vegetarian options as well, it’s a great stop to make on Hiawassee before heading out to the State Botanical Garden of Georgia for the afternoon. “You have got to take the homemade pimento cheese burger on your next picnic with a thirst quenching iced unsweetened green tea,” says owner Ken Manring. “The pimento cheese is nice and melted on the burger, while the lettuce adds a nice crunch to the overall taste.” Manring also suggests enjoying some local organic grilled collard greens to go along with the burger—a delicious twist on a Southern style summer tradition—and a finish of bite-sized Grand Marnier truffles that are perfect for on-the-go. With their orange-dusted outside and gooey inside, we doubt they’ll make it to the picnic—but we certainly dare you to try.
393 N Finley Street www.bigcitybreadcafe.com Masters of the picnic ambience every day is Big City Bread off North Finley Street. The Normaltown bakery and restaurant’s huge outdoor patio is certainly a break from the Great Indoors and a walkable destination for an hour lunch break. BCB owner and chef Matthew Scott recommends picking up the ham, peach and brie sandwich as optimal summer fare, which, served on walnut wheat bread with fresh basil, honey and dijon, certainly isn’t your run-of-the-mill PB&J. Scott also suggests adding a hummus plate as a starter and a house salad side whether you’re stopping by to eat on the spot or planning on heading out with friends, food in tow. If the smell of fresh homemade bread that greets you before you’ve even parked the car doesn’t give you a hint, BCB also makes fresh desserts and confections every day that no one should leave without trying. We can personally attest to the delicious raspberry tart and suggest that adding a cappuccino and a table outside will make for a delicious nightcap and an unforgettable after-hours picnic under the stars—even if it’s just the twinkling tree lights that come on after dark on the deck.
BA RT L E T T BECAUSE UPWARD MOBILIT Y IS PART OF OUR NATURE. For over 100 years, we’ve made trees, shrubs–and our people– thrive. Ours is an entrepreneurial culture in which new ideas are welcomed and decisions are shared–not handed down. We provide a highly-competitive compensation package and generous benefits, including medical/dental/life insurance, 401(k) and more. And we encourage our employees to succeed both in and out of the workplace. Consider a career with Bartlett Tree Experts. Where growth happens everywhere you look.
For the life of your trees. PLEASE CONTACT NOEL DUBAK AT NDUBAK@BARTLETT.COM
georgiaugazine.com
7
the Anonymous accounts BY SARA PORCH Be careful the next time you rush to class in your pajamas or throw back one too many on a Friday night. Someone might be watching. Anonymous Twitter and Tumblr accounts that capture unsuspecting subjects during private or embarrassing moments are the latest social media craze, and the trend has come to the University of Georgia. The Tumblr “tapthatUGAguy” splashed onto campus fall 2012 as its anonymous creators “Serena” and “Matilda” posted candid pictures of attractive male students around campus. Followers of the blog can scroll through pages of unassuming Georgia boys in dining halls, on buses or in classrooms. Anyone can submit a photo to the site as long as they have a camera near and a cute guy present. Monica Farzad, a third year education major, frequents the site when she wants to procrastinate doing school work. “What girl doesn’t go on ‘tapthatUGAguy’? I mean, I understand that it is kind of creepy that people are taking random pictures of guys that have no idea what’s going on, but I mean it takes some serious lady balls to do it,” Farzad says. Although she has never submitted a photo herself, Farzad thinks the site is harmless and that guys should take it as a compliment if their face graces the popular blog. “I thought it was funny, and I joked about it a bit. Then, I promptly forgot about it,” junior Austin Crouse said after his picture was posted on “tapthatUGAguy” in October of 2012. Playing off ‘tapthatUGAguy’s’ success, the Tumblr “tapthatUGAdrunkstudent”
emerged in September 2012. And rather than honoring campus heartthrobs, “tapthatUGAdrunkstudent” is more like a wall of dishonor. Athens’ nightlife is on full display as photos and videos capture inebriated students at their worst. Followers will see students getting sick in trashcans, passing out at tailgates and drunkenly embracing strangers. The blog’s humorous memes and photo captions glorify UGA’s infamous party life, while the anonymous photos of strangers act as a
Twitter’s Terms of Service policy also asserts that it is not obligated to remove content presented on its services, because all content “is the sole responsibility of the person who originated such content.” Like Tumblr, the popular microblogging site is also home to numerous anonymous accounts that expose or ridicule unsavory student behavior. @UGAFashionCop is a rather harmless account that critiques students’ fashion blunders, while @UGAMakeouts chronicles students’ overt displays of affection around campus. Twitter’s terms & conditions jargon allows @ UGAMakeouts to legally tweet a picture of two intoxicated strangers sloppily kissing at a bar in downtown Athens while keeping Twitter immune from any damaging lawsuits due to its fine print about not being a mediator of content. And since @UGAMakeouts obtains their pictures in a public place, Twitter cannot be held responsible for any adverse content that the account provides. Although some students see this growing trend as an invasion of privacy, some are accustomed to the omnipresence of social media in their lives. “I don’t think it’s really an invasion of privacy, because that’s just how the Internet works now. With everyone using social media all the time, your picture is bound to end up somewhere that you don’t expect it to,” Farzad says. When asked what students could do to protect themselves from appearing unfavorably on the internet, Lee provided one rule to follow: “Don’t be an ass in public. That’s real simple.”
What girl doesn’t go on ‘TapthatUGAguy?’” “-Monica Farzad
8
ugazine
summer 2013
form of public shaming. Despite its wry tone, the blog’s brief “about” section provides a disclaimer: “Be careful what you do in public ladies and gentlemen, because since these photos are taken in a public place, we can show ‘em…Go Dawgs!” According to William Lee, a UGA professor of telecommunications, not only can people post unflattering pictures of others on social media, but it’s also nearly impossible to get it removed once it’s been posted. “Well, the bottom line is if you are in public, people can photograph you,” Lee says. “You can always appeal to the people who are operating the website and say ‘Look this is really embarrassing,’ but it’s at their discretion as to whether or not they want to keep it there.” According to Tumblr’s Terms of Service policy, even if a compromising picture is deleted in one account, “copies of that content may exist elsewhere and be retained indefinitely” due to reblogging.
lifestyle
Athens Summer Staycation We hear you studious summer Athenians, it’s sweltering and the pool...it calls to you. But even though the usual horde of students gets significantly smaller come June, which means less wait time at Mama’s Boy for brunch, we’ve got a couple of after school suggestions of our own. We say break out of your classroom, not for a day of the same-old, but for adventures that will have everyone else wondering why they left for the summer at all. BY KATIE THIGPEN | ILLUSTRATIONS BY William Kissane
2. Atlanta History Center in Buckhead
1.
Kayaking the Broad River When those sweltering days arrive in the Classic City, skip town and beat the heat by kayaking the Broad River. The Sandbar Kayaking, Restaurant and Bar is a fantastic company that offers kayaking and camping at a great price. Weekday kayaking trips are only $15 per person and increase to $20 on the weekend. Free parking and $1 cooler rentals make this activity a great option for students. The Sandbar allows outside food and beverages with the exclusion of glass bottles. Dogs are allowed to kayak with their owners, and patrons are welcome to bring their own paddles and life jackets if they wish. This five-mile route takes about three and a half hours to kayak. At the end of a relaxing day on the river, sleep riverside under the stars at the Sandbar. Tent rentals are a bargain at only $10 per night.
Grab a couple friends and carpool to Buckhead, Ga., to tour the Atlanta History Center for free. The Bank of America free admission weekends occur on the third weekends of May and June. This grants all guests free admission during the third weekend of every month. On Saturday and Sunday of these weekends, visitors can browse exhibits that range from Southern folk art and Centennial Olympic Games memorabilia, to the traveling and temporary exhibits such as the “Native Lands: Indians in Georgia” exhibit.
3.
Hammock rental from Ramsey Soak up the summer sun on campus from the comfort of an Eno hammock. If you do not have a hammock of your own, drop by the equipment desk at the Ramsey Student Center and rent one for $5 a day. Gather your friends and a picnic lunch, and head to North Campus. Napping, reading and people watching are more fun if you’re hanging beneath the trees. “Hanging in my Eno is the most comfortable way to enjoy Mother Nature. I would rather sleep in my Eno than my bed,” says junior agricultural business major Camille Odom.
4.
Skyzone in Suwanee Visit Skyzone to unleash your inner child, have a blast and burn serious calories. Skyzone is a nationally-recognized indoor trampoline park with locations across the country. While there are several facilities in Georgia, the Suwanee, Ga. location is the closest to Athens. Tickets can be purchased online prior to visiting, or at the ticket desk at the entrance. Guests purchase jump time by the half hour, and pricing is very student friendly, starting at $13 for 30 minutes of jump time and increasing to $17 for one hour. In addition to trampoline platforms, the facility has a foam pit, extreme basketball court and 3-D dodgeball arena. "Skyzone is fun. They run Groupons pretty often, so it's easy to get tickets at a great price," says UGA graduate student Junior Chapman. Be sure to purchase more jump time than you anticipate needing in order to have time for small breaks. Regardless of your fitness level, a Skyzone session is sure to get your heart pumping.
georgiaugazine.com
9
6. Watson Mill Bridge State Park in Comer
5.
Evening at Terrapin Although Terrapin is what many students would consider a normal activity in Athens, Ga., it still tops the list as a must-do summer activity. There is nothing more relaxing than hanging out with friends, sampling locally-brewed beer and listening to great music. Agricultural communication major Katie Comer said, “Terrapin is a great place to enjoy the spring weather in Athens. I don’t even drink much beer, but the atmosphere is worth the visit.” An evening at Terrapin starts off with a brewery tour, providing you with product background and giving you a glimpse into beer production. After the tour, visitors ages 21 and up are able to sample up to 32 ounces of beer while lounging on the lawn, where local bands perform. At only $10 per person, Terrapin offers a great deal and is the perfect way to unwind after a long day of class.
10
ugazine
summer 2013
A 20- to 30-minute drive to Comer, just outside of Athens, lies the gem of Watson Mill Bridge State Park. Watson Mill is a small park known for its covered bridge built in 1885. It is a great place to relax, soak up some sun, play in waterfalls and fish. With the South Fork of the Broad River flowing through the park, visitors are able to enjoy the calmer waters of the river on one side of the bridge, while the water cascades into waterfalls on the other. The calmer side offers picnic and fishing areas. The waterfall ride has rocks that allows people to walk across and even slide down, creating a natural water slide. The park also offers hiking trails along the river and houses horse stables. Guests also have the option of booking campsites to stay at the park. Priced at around $30 a night, the park offers a vacation without having to go very far.
7.
“Vampire Diaries” Extra in Covington
Get your 15 minutes of fame on the small screen as a television extra for the popular television drama “The Vampire Diaries.” The extras casting is held in Covington, only an hour drive from Athens; it is the perfect activity to get you and your friends out of the city for a day. Casting directors are looking for extras regardless of gender, race or age for various scenes in the show. The deal gets even sweeter when you get paid for your time at the casting. Extras are paid minimum wage, but they can make overtime if their shift exceeds eight hours or if they are cast for a specific role.
8.
Berry Picking at Miller Blueberry Farm in Watkinsville Nothing signals the approach of summer quite like the taste of a ripe, juicy blueberry. At Miller’s Blueberry Farm in Watkinsville, Ga., you can experience summer produce during its peak season by picking your own blueberries and blackberries. The farm was opened over 30 years ago by a retired University of Georgia professor and extension agent as a way to supplement his income in retirement. Since its start, the farm has had several owners, but still holds true to the original mission of producing quality berries for the community. The farm provides buckets and take-home containers for berry pickers, and boasts eight blueberry and two blackberry varieties. The berries are pesticide-free and are pollinated by the farm's bees who also produce honey for purchase at the facility. The farm opens in early June, when the berry season begins, and is open until mid-August. At only $2.10 per pound, this is an affordable and delicious summer activity that is suitable for all ages.
Shifting Gears: A More Sustainable UGA Through Bulldog Bikes by GABE cavallaro | photography by lexi deagen Wake up. Fall out of bed. Put a helmet on your head. Find your way downstairs and check out a bike. Looking up, you notice you are late. Weave through cars and pedal fast—make it to class in seconds flat. Not quite “A Day in the Life” for The Beatles, but it could be for you with the Bulldog Bikes initiative at the University of Georgia. Started in August 2012, the UGA Office of Sustainability set a goal to make the university’s campus greener with the initiative to make bikes available for students to rent. The office is currently running the program as a pilot to assess whether they should move forward with it in the future. Bulldog Bikes started as a sustainability grant for a campus bike share program. The office researched what other schools and municipalities were doing and launched the pilot in August at the Odum School of Ecology and the east campus dorm, Building 1516. “There’s been bike share interest in the community for years,” Office of Sustainability Director Kevin Kirsche said. Bike shares are a fairly new phenomenon in the United States after having existed in Europe for some time. The first two successful public programs in the country were Denver’s Denver Bicycle and Minneapolis’ Nice Ride, both created in 2010. Other cities are following suit with the new movement. New York City is launching its Citi Bike NYC in May 2013, with many other cities spanning over five continents having set up their own systems. According to a September 2010 USA Today article, there were almost 90 universities in the U.S. with their own bike share programs, including the Georgia Institute of Technology, New York Uni-
versity and Washington State University. At UGA, a couple of residents use the program according to Building 1516 Residence Hall Director Christina Duncan, but one resident, Nigel Long, has been the most consistent. Long fully incorporates the use of the bikes into his daily routine. He emphatically said “yes” when asked whether he would recommend using Bulldog Bikes. “I’ve been trying to get others do it, too,” Long says. The program has become a necessity for Long to arrive to two of his classes on time. “It’s a handy way to get around campus if you don’t have your own bike, especially with the heavy traffic in the morning and around 3 p.m.,” he said. Kirsche’s main goal for the project is to have more people on bikes and less in cars. “We want to create another viable option for people to get across campus without the need for a car,” he says. The long-term goal is for Bulldog Bikes to be fully integrated throughout Athens-Clarke County, but when that will happen remains to be determined. The program is still in the testing stages. So far, the program has incurred a number of challenges. Physically, the bikes themselves are a handmade model intended to be durable, but are very heavy, a point also made by Long. He thinks the bikes could make things more difficult for less experienced riders. “The system for registering was fairly cumbersome at first,” Kirsche adds, but they’ve since taken steps toward making the process easier. Additionally, both host sites have presented usage problems. At Building 1516, the bicycles are stored in a room under the building, making it more difficult for residents to be knowledgeable
about the program and the availability of the bikes. On the other hand, at the ecology school, everyone was in love with the idea and the bike rack was set up in front of the main door, but many of the people that frequent the building already have their own bikes and do not need to use the program bikes. There are also limitations due to the current lack of technology. In cities like Washington D.C., the bike sharing system works by swiping a credit card to unlock a bike locked into a special rack, but Bulldog Bikes does not currently have this technology. However, a grant has been given to a student to design a lock that works with Bulldog Bucks, the university’s pre-paid card system. It is also worth noting that in cities like D.C. the bikes can be taken out at one station and dropped off somewhere else, which is an option Bulldog Bikes is unable to offer, at least for right now. With the intention to continue and ability to make changes to the program, there is no guarantee that the program will continue and expand in the future. “My gut feeling is that we will,” Kirsche says. The administration will review the merits for continuing based on the benefits, costs and problems. With the pilot set to expire in August 2013, a solid decision is forthcoming. Bulldog Bikes may have some obstacles to overcome, but considering the long list of success stories from other institutions, a happy ending is possible. “Bulldog Bikes can be a healthy, more enjoyable option, with exercise and fresh air contributing to the fun factor that you don’t get with a car,” Kirsche says.
georgiaugazine.com
11
Wayfaring
Strangers With the humid summer breeze giving us an insatiable urge to travel—not to mention our Facebook friends and their pictures boasting dream study abroads across the globe—our style direction has been making like Keroauc and going on the road, international edition. Modeled by local style mavens Maria Kouninska and Demitria Lyles, the summer feeling is wandering from the bazaars of India to the beaches of Brazil without a moment’s hesitation, and making jet-setters of us all. Styling by Margaret Harney, Cassie Kaye & Surina Harjani Photography by Ersta Ferryanto
12
ugazine
summer 2013
On Maria (left): Sunflower dress, $57, Private Gallery. Bronze necklace, $18, Dynamite Clothing. Sky blue sunglasses, $20, Pitaya. On Demitria (right): Honey Punch dress, $42, teal sunglasses, $20, Pitaya. Beaded necklace, $14, Dynamite Clothing.
georgiaugazine.com
13
Underskies blazer, $42, shorts, $38, Pitaya. Straw hat, $10, Target.
14
ugazine
summer 2013
Depri shorts, $32, L’Atiste top, $39, Pitaya.
Demitria Lyles
Blogger, Clawzet Chronicles www.clawzetchronicles.com
Must-have item: Anything long and flowy like a maxi skirt or wide-leg pants Current read: Wisdom for cooling the flames by Thich Nhat Hanh Style icon: Madonna Choice vacation spot: Fiji
georgiaugazine.com
15
Galaxy leggings, $24, jean shirt, $22, Dynamite Clothing. Gold earrings, $8, Pitaya.
16
ugazine
summer 2013
Red dress, $24, gold earrings, $14, Dynamite Clothing. Three stone necklace, $10, Pitaya.
Maria Kouninska
President of FDSA, Stylist, Painter
First fashion memory: Sitting on my grandmother’s lap watching her sew what is now my favorite dress. Does it still fit? No. Have I tried to make it work? Absolutely. Style icon: Daphne Guinness Favorite obsession: Chocolate & Lavender Martinis Choice vacation spot: Xanthi, Greece
georgiaugazine.com
17
on the cover
S
carves in olidarity
Many women are able to walk down the street without drawing attention. They can play a game of frisbee without suffering sideways glances and miss the occasional class unnoticed by their professors. No one feels uncomfortable around them or yells slurs out of truck windows as they walk down the street. Most women never have to think about these things, but this isn’t the case for Muslim women who wear a hijab. For them, these occurrences are part of everyday life, and once a year—at least in Athens—they invite non-Muslim men and women to don a headscarf and spend 24 hours in support of those who do so every day. by cassie kaye / photography by DAMIen salas
18
ugazine
summer 2013
georgiaugazine.com
19
Scarves in Solidarity is an annual event started in 2012 by four Muslim women at the University of Georgia. Najla Abdulelah, Nurin Abdulwassy, Yasmine Boumenir and Yusra Aurangzeb, current sophomores at UGA, started the event last year as a way to raise awareness about Muslim women who wear the hijab. “We saw a similar international event online and decided we wanted to bring it to Athens,” says Abdulelah. “We wanted to educate non-Muslims and dispel the misconceptions that all Muslim women are oppressed and forced to wear the hijab against their will.” “We wanted to show people that wearing the headscarf is our choice,” she says. “This is our lifestyle, and we should be allowed to wear the hijab just like other women can wear tank tops and shorts. We aren’t terrorists, we’re just like any other American.” The four women didn’t expect much of a turn-out at the first event, but they’ve since been taking strides to expand it. At this year’s event in April, they included a panel on the days before and after the event itself. The day before the event, they encouraged participants to come hear what exactly hijab is and why they choose to wear it, to give participants a better understanding of
what they’ve chosen to support. On the day of the event, participants wear their own headscarves and gather for a group photo at the Arch. “Last year, I saw a bunch of people walking around and participating, but it was mostly people I knew,” says Abdulwassy. “It still felt good, but they were the people who were already supporting me on a daily basis. This year there were people I didn’t know who were wearing the hijab, which was a very
ing terrorism, and others experienced backlash on social media via tweets and Facebook comments. “No one wants to have a bad experience, and that isn’t the goal of the event,” says Samaritan. “But sometimes it can be a good thing. That way people know what these women are going through on a daily basis.” Abdulelah also hits on the point Samaritan makes. “Just knowing what we go through, each person who participates will raise more awareness than we ever can,” she says. “Just by having this experience, they’ll go on to tell their friends and families what it’s like, which is what we really hope to accomplish.” In the future, the women who started Scarves in Solidarity Day hope to take the event with them wherever they go. They also want to make sure the event carries on after they leave Athens. “We’re hoping to find an organization, or at least a few people, to keep the event going,” says Abdulelah. “We want to keep this going until we see change, however long that takes.” “I’ve been wearing the hijab for over a decade, so I’ve heard it all,” says Abdulwassy. “It’s different for women when they just start wearing it and aren’t used to the comments and reactions. We want to create a better environment in Athens for women wearing the headscarf on a daily basis.” The underlying cause behind Scarves in Solidarity Day is conflicting beliefs about Muslim women and the hijab. The Islamic faith places significance on the concept of modesty for both men and women in manner, speech and dress. For women, this sense of modesty often dictates they wear the hijab, or headscarf, to cover themselves in public. Typically, a girl will begin wearing the hijab after puberty, although more modern Muslims may choose to wait until they feel personally ready to wear it. Abdulelah believes wearing the hijab is an obligation of Islam, but she consid-
wanted to educate non-Muslims “andWedispel the misconceptions that all
Muslim women are oppressed and forced to wear the hijab against their will.” -Najla Abdulelah
20
ugazine
summer 2013
overwhelming feeling. It made me walk with more confidence and feel more comfortable on campus.” At the panel the day after the event, participants were encouraged to share their stories from the day before, both good and bad. Students gathered at Myers to discuss the reactions they experienced from friends and even strangers. “I was nervous for my first class, but everything was fine,” says Jennifer Samaritan, an English and religion major from Lawrenceville, Ga. “I met a few people who are Muslim so I made some new friends. Mostly I just felt really empowered as a woman all day.” “Regardless of your reasons for doing it, I think it’s really important that I was able to put myself in someone else’s shoes,” says Shreya Singh, an international affairs major from Marietta, Ga. “I was able to see there’s really no difference between us besides what we wear. Just experiencing what someone else goes through for even 24 hours is important, and it isn’t something you can get by just sitting and talking to someone.” Although many participants reported having typical days with few, if any, bad experiences, not everyone got off so easy. Some received negative remarks throughout their day about support-
ers it more of a responsibility. “Wearing the hijab isn’t just about putting on the headscarf every day,” she says. “It’s a commitment. You have to make up your mind to take on the responsibility and represent it well once you begin wearing it.” As with all religions, people have their own beliefs and interpretations, which is why not all Muslim women choose to wear a hijab. “To me it’s a beautiful thing,” says Abdulwassy. “I feel privileged that I get to represent my religion and it encourages me to be better because I have a constant reminder of what I should be doing.” This concept of modesty exists, at least in part, to discourage unwelcome attention from men. “Islam wants women to be judged by their character, not their looks,” says Abdulelah. “When
a woman wears a hijab, you’re forced to have a conversation with her and get to know her personality rather than judging her based on what she’s wearing or how her hair looks.” The garment has different legal and cultural standards in different countries, and the circumstances under which it is worn vary greatly. The overwhelming majority of Islamic countries do not have any laws requiring women to wear the hijab. There are many countries, including France, where there are actually laws banning women from wearing the hijab in public. Individual Islamic families and communities have their own standards for wearing the hijab, and more traditional ones require women to don a headscarf in the presence of non-familial men.
what some“oneJustelseexperiencing goes through for even 24
hours is important, and it isn’t something you can get by just sitting and talking to someone.” -Shreya Singh
Many Western cultures view the hijab as a symbol of oppression for Muslim women. Islam is a patriarchal religion (as is Christianity), and this view of oppression is often accompanied by ideas of angry and controlling fathers. Although those do exist, as they do in every culture worldwide, the choice to wear the hijab is largely left to each woman. In order to see change, Abdulelah encourages non-Muslims to respectfully ask questions, and Muslims to answer them with kindness. “Be open-minded. When I first came to America, I didn’t want to answer questions, I just wanted people to understand,” she says. “But many people just don’t know [about Islam], so they make hateful comments based on their misconceptions and the way Muslims are portrayed in the media. I want people to understand, but this can’t happen overnight. If you’re a Muslim girl and someone asks you a questions, answer it. If you have questions about Islam or the hijab, approach the next Muslim you see and ask them. We’re just like everyone else.”
Non-Muslim women and men join together for the Scarves in Solidarity event, donning headscarves to show support of the women who regularly wear hijabs.
georgiaugazine.com
21
bon voyage! One of the greatest things about UGA, and one of the biggest draws to the university, is the unparalleled opportunities to travel around the world while you call yourself a Dawg. But what to consider once you’ve got a destination pinned down on the map and plane tickets? Here are a few tips. by Jacqueline Rehe
01
Research the climate Yeah it’s hot and humid in Athens in June, but in Australia, it’s a bit of a different story. Even if you’re not going to another hemisphere, it’s still good advice to check up on your destinations longitude and latitude just to make sure you’re packing the essentials. “I forgot my sweatpants and a sweatshirt,” says Sarah Hickman, a junior at the University of Georgia who studied abroad in Spain last summer. “It may seem kind of random, but you need them if you are in your room studying or if the weather is randomly cold one day.” Good walking shoes and comfortable walk wear are a must as well, because we’ve never heard of a study abroad that didn’t include days and nights exploring side streets, perfect little cafes and local haunts.
02
Communicate with your bank You probably saved up all year for pocket money to spend while you’re away, so make sure you can access it while you’re gone. Talking to your bank about your travel dates will alert them that you’re actually making purchases and will ensure you don’t have a hold put on your account when they see tabs from a restaurant in Beijing. Ask the questions that you really want to know as well, like how you’ll get fast cash and whether or not you’ll have access to your account from abroad. Your bank might have a partner in your host country that could come in handy for quick ATM trips and could cut down on charges for drawing out of your account—but you don’t know till you ask.
22
ugazine
summer 2013
03
Don’t forget important documents and items. Your passport is the one thing you really don’t want to lose while you’re gone, and extra security to protect it from a hasty pack or a pickpocket is to make copies. Of everything. Any identification essentials: student ID, driver’s license, medical record cards, etc., are all good to have an extra of, as well as credit and debit cards. That way if any of these items get stolen or lost, you will still have all of your information. “Having a copy of your passport, credit cards (including account numbers and phone numbers for cancellation) , address of your stay, director/coordinator information and US Embassy location go a long way in case of an emergency abroad,” says William Smith, an education abroad advisor at the University of Georgia. “It’s one of those things that you don’t think about until something goes wrong. It’s pretty rare that a student will have easy access to a printer abroad, so it’s important to have those documents printed before you step foot on that plane.” Also leave the copies with your parents or relatives back in the States. It means only one simple call home to tell them to cancel stolen cards.
04
Be cautious when packing (and shopping)
You’re paying by the pound when it comes to luggage so if you even have a shadow of a doubt that you’ll actually be wearing that headlamp on a night out in Paris, leave it at home. Necessary packing is a must, especially if you’re taking a big commercial flight with many passengers (or even more so if you’re on a smaller plane with less space). If you’re having to sit and zip before you’ve even left home, it’s time to reorganize. Adding an extra duffle or backpack is also good for making sure your travel treasures make it back home in one piece and might help you from checking in another bag for the return trip. When it comes to where to pack what, essentials always go in the carry-on. If your luggage happens to get lost, you want to rest easy knowing you’ve got your toothbrush and clean jeans already with you. Last, make sure to be conscious of the electrical difference between countries. Even a destination as familiar as London will have different outlets, and you definitely don’t want to blow the fuse on your laptop because you forgot to pack a converter.
05
Know the fashion and culture Booty shorts and bare-midriff corset tops may be common place in some parts of America, but that doesn’t mean cultures abroad necessarily want to see your bellybutton. It’s important to do your research and know what sort of fashion is acceptable (and not acceptable) to the people in your host country. You certainly don’t want you first impression stepping off the plane to be an offensive one. “We were told not to wear shorts,” says Natalie Morgan, a senior who studied abroad in Spain. Sarah Dunn, a junior who studied in Costa Rica has a tip for figuring out the in’s and out’s: “I knew some people who were not prepared for the culture shock and had a hard time adjusting,” she says. Reading ahead on different states of culture shock helped Dunn handle the transition better, so grab your books for a little pre-flight reading.
06
Keep a journal Robinson Crusoe was on to something—keeping a travel diary is a great way to tally all the adventures you have and creates an irreplaceable souvenir. Handcrafted journals at Community from local artisans are a cool way to keep home on the brain while you’re away so grab a Double Dutch Press journal before checking out of the Classic City. While we hope you don’t have quite the harrowing experience of the stranded Crusoe—read: It is our sincere wish that you steer clear of any cannibals—there’s always the dream of a memoir book deal with Knopf waiting at the end of every well-documented, well-lived adventure. Eat, Pray, Love anyone?
07
Know how to keep in touch with family and friends at home Is your mom’s birthday during your session halfway around the world? Avoid missing it—and avoid running around for a phone card once you’ve already arrived—by doing research on how to keep tabs with homebase based on the available technology of your destination. If you’ve got internet, Skype and FaceTime are always available but website Vbuzzer offers free PC-to-PC calls and PC-to-phone calls for a cheaper rate and Viber iPhone app provides free iPhoneto-iPhone calls if you’ve got 3G or wireless available. In the event you’re in a place with no internet whip out the age-old postcard trick, because who doesn’t enjoy a picturesque scene arriving spontaneously in the mail?
*
Most importantly, enjoy studying abroad and make the most of your time. Whether you are snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, attending the Cannes Film Festival in France or touring Cape Point in South Africa, it’ll be one of the most gratifying experiences of your life. “We have about 2,100 students studying abroad every year,” says Smith. “We offer over 100 UGA programs in over 40 countries. The most popular locations are still in Western Europe and Australia, but we’ve been pushing our students to explore other regions as well.”
georgiaugazine.com
23
UGAuthors: Published Reads from UGA by shannon adams Photography by margaret harney
The University of Georgia Alumnus plaque boasts well-known athletes and celebrities—Ryan Seacrest’s one week as a bulldawg is forever immortalized in stone—but some of the lesser known accomplishments of UGA’s spectacular history are authors who got their start in the shade of the Arch. Nancy Brandon, who graduated from the UGA in 1988 with a degree in English education, published her first novel, “Dunaway’s Crossing,” last year. Fascinated with the influenza pandemic, Brandon wrote “Crossing” as a piece of historical fiction set in Savannah during the Spanish Influenza and was inspired by the rich history she grew up around. “I learned that my great-grandparents actually had to move away from their home in town to live in a cabin out in the country so that they could avoid the contagion, and I thought that was a really good premise for a novel,” Brandon says. “So while my main character is not a personification of my great-grandmother, I did take a family situation and fictionalize it for the sake of telling the story.” Family history wasn’t just inspiration for her first publishing venture; it was also the foundation for her entire writing career. “I’ve always written, since I was a little girl. It’s just something that’s always been part of my life,” Brandon says. “I’m the daughter and granddaughter of writers. I grew up in an environment where writing was not only appreciated, it was our source of livelihood.” A nomination for the Georgia Author of the Year Award, plus a promotion for her new novel meant a lot of time on the marketing side of things this past year. But Brandon’s second novel is proof that a selfmade writer is not a legend of writer lore. Currently in the works for 2015, her second novel “Show Me Kindness” is a return to the drafting and editing board after time away.
24
ugazine
summer 2013
THE REBIRTH OF RHIN julian traas After Rhin’s parents die in a fire, he sets out on a journey of self-discovery in the world of Iora. During his travels, he learns of a dark secret involving Iora’s creator. Rhin encounters many strange creatures on his quest to free the world for oppression and destroy the god of Iora.
Deep dish mary kay andrews When Gina Foxton’s public access television show gets canceled, she pursues a chance to be the Cooking Channel’s next star. There’s only one problem: the producers have their eyes on another hopeful, Tate Moody, as well.
dunaway’s crossing nancy brandon The Spanish Influenza that Dunaway’s Crossing is based on killed 675,000 Americans in it’s first year—that’s more than the total number of Americans who would die from war in the 20th century. We can’t blame Brandon’s protagonists for hopping on the next train right out of that disaster, even if they are fictional. hissy fit mary kay andrews Keeley Murdock is getting married—that is, until she catches her fiancé with her maid of honor during the rehearsal dinner. Keeley’s now ex-fiancé’s family is trying to put her interior design company out of business, so she accepts an offer to restore a rundown house by a town newcomer, in the process discovering links between her ex-fiancé’s family and her mother’s disappearance years ago.
art & entertainment “A year of promoting and selling one book takes a lot of time away from writing the next one. So 2013 should see a lot more writing than 2012 did for me,” Brandon says. Kathy Trocheck, an alum of UGA’s Henry W. Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication and New York Times bestselling author, got her start working as a reporter before delving into the book business. “I always wanted to write,” says Trocheck. “I read before first grade and I thought ‘Oh I’ll grow up and write books’ and when I got to high school it was like ‘well nobody you know writes books; you can’t write books, but you can be a newspaper reporter.” Adding reporter to her skill set may have been a side note on her way to publishing, but covering the beat for years did mean plenty of details for Trocheck’s mysteries like “To Live And Die in Dixie” from her Callaghan Garrity series. And that’s not even mentioning the bestsellers “Blue Christmas,” “Savannah Breeze” and “The Fixer Upper” she wrote under her pseudonym, Mary Kay Andrews, that landed coveted spots on the New York Times Bestseller’s List. How do you get to be two writers in one? You have new ideas. “I wrote ten mysteries under my real
name, and when I had the idea for a new book about 10 years ago it was so different from the mysteries I’d been writing. I just wanted to try it under a pseudonym, ” Trocheck says. With her twentieth novel, “Ladies Night,” out this year, and her books garnering national attention, UGA has picked up on the literary star and requested her work to display in the special collections library. But it’s not just alumni that are experiencing success. Julian Traas, a third-year English major from Waalre, The Netherlands, has had two books published while in school, proving that nothing adds to the resume quite like a couple of novels under your belt. The first, “The Rebirth of Rhin,” is a fantasy epic that he started at the age of 11 and published through Book Surge, a company now called Create Space affiliated with Amazon.com. The second is a more experimental work, co-authored with Traas’s life long friend Silas Jackson, titled “Ligeia/ Bryndt.” At first balancing a full class load and writing was very difficult for Traas, but he eventually realized not writing was not an option for him. “I just didn’t write,” Traas says, “and then I realized that I was dying. I just didn’t care about things as much any-
more, and the grind was really starting to get to me. So I made a more conscious effort.” Traas’s favorite part of the writing process is the beginning: blank Word Document, fresh ideas and zero limits. “It’s like exorcising demons,” says Traas. “There’s an ever-increasing number of demons just battling it out in my brain, and every time I write I trap one of them on the page.” Trocheck and Brandon have advice for students like Traas and others who want to be published: Practice. All the time. “I would tell them to write, and then I would tell them to write some more. And then I would tell them to get some feedback on their writing, and consider that feedback before they sit down and write some more,” Brandon says. Trocheck agrees. “Join the radio station, do things with the television program, write a blog. Do something where you are actually writing instead of just thinking about writing.” And like all writers, Trocheck isn’t just about the “go get ‘em” advice but also has the back pocket wisdom of a dreamchaser who was successful. “Follow your passion. I never thought I would make any money as a newspaper reporter, and I didn’t care. I just had to write,” Trocheck says. “If you do what you love, you’re wealthy.”
staff recommendations
perfect summer reads Summer is our favorite time to hit the books—just not our textbooks. We’re burying the school books deep within our closets in favor of some more pleasurable reading. Whether it’s a trip to the beach or cozying up in bed during a summer storm, these reads are on our radar.
GAME OF THRONES GEORGE R.R. MARTIN
THE LOST SYMBOL dan brown
SOMEday, someday, maybe lauren graham
Recommended by Cassie Kaye, Contributing Editor: “I desperately want to watch [the show] because I’m tired of not understanding everyone’s insanely emotional tweets on Sunday nights, but I’m forcing myself to read the books first.”
Recommended by Ellen Barnes, Web Editor: “I absolutely loved “The Da Vinci Code” and “Angels and Demons,” so I figured I’d give this one a try because I heard it was about D.C. and wanted to see what secrets about our own capital that Robert Langdon would undoubtedly reveal.”
Recommended by Lauren Greene, Art Director: “Gilmore Girls is one of my biggest obsessions, and when I found out Lauren Graham had a book coming out, I knew I had to read it. Graham’s writing is full of wit and charm, happily reminiscent of my favorite Lorelai Gilmore.”
georgiaugazine.com
25
The Man Behind the Artists by Kiersten Willis | photography and illustrations by Brad Olsen
The faces of Artists of War are The Dragon on guitar, Skullcrusher on Bass and Dynamo on drums—but the real man behind the artists is Brad Olsen. A line is crossed. Then another line is drawn and a new creation emerges—the Artists of War. The band, composed of members The Dragon, who plays guitar, Skullcrusher on bass and Dynamo on drums, fronts the Artists of War. These aren’t three living members— they’re cartoons created by one man. That man is Brad Olsen. Olsen first got into music in his early teens and loves comics. Artists of War is the synthesis of those two things. “I’d been a musician since I was 14 and I’d been writing songs since I was 16. In 2010, when I started Artists of War, I had a lot of music build up over a period of time,” Olsen says. A big fan of comics, he also illustrates all of the band members’ images. Having previously been involved with a band called Dirt Driven, Brad knows what being in a band is like. But the band was not that driven. “We had maybe three, four practices as a full band. Two were in my garage. Part of the problem was being in a small town and being high school kids,” Olsen says. He adds that as high school students, people “aren’t that dedicated to anything...so it wouldn’t have really worked out anyway.” Artists of War, signed to Ols-
26
ugazine
summer 2013
en’s own Tricalibur Records, doesn’t have a backstory. Instead, he focuses more on the music. Since previous projects had not worked out, he decided to try a solo project. “The inspiration was just to have something more solid because I had tried to be in bands and none of it ever worked out,” Olsen says. The sound of Artists of War is comparable to Gorillaz, another animated band. Olsen says he was not afraid of such an association. In fact, he welcomes the comparison. “The Gorillaz are really cool,” Olsen says. And so is Artists of War. Musical inspirations include death metal and parkour,
but it changes according to what Olsen is listening to. Early on, he listened to classics in the genre, like Mastadon, and gradually got into more contemporary bands like Nine Inch Nails and System of a Down. The genre appealed to him at an early age after his mother died and he “became fascinated with death and negative emotion.” Metal was the genre that allowed him to express his frustrations to the world. The various influences are evident on Artist of War’s records. The songs like those on The Grey, his latest release, range in moods from intense, using a raging guitar on “Exalted” to a melancholy light electric guitar on “Era.” One aim was to make the varying branches of metal work together. The genre stretches in many different directions, and they vary regionally. “The best way to do it is album by album. I’ll try to do an album that’s like sludge-meets-prog or deathmeets-black,” he says. Lyrically, his songs are a stream of consciousness. “I tend to write stream of consciousness. Sometimes I’ll attribute meaning to it but most of the time it’s just random emotion,” Olsen says. That emotion can be felt in the variety of songs recorded throughout the band’s catalogue, which dates back to their 2011 debut. In order to create the albums for the band, Brad has long jam sessions even as a one-man band. “A lot of bands don’t even jam. It shows in their music. The best way to do it is to make things happen organically.” These jams sessions are all done solo—Brad plays all the instruments. His musical training dates back to guitar lessons for a year at 14 years old. Since then, his musical knowledge from one instrument to the next was easily obtained once he could understand all the beats and notes.
As one might imagine, the workspace of a creative individual is usually one of organized chaos, and Brad is no exception. His living area is littered with scraps of paper for song title ideas, stories and lyrics. Posters of his favorite bands paint the walls, and recording gear that includes amps, guitars and speakers cover his space. Brad also dabbles in publications. A product of his second album Peace, Heavy Giant magazine was conceived in 2010. The magazine was released to chronicle the sci-fi story behind their sophomore release. Brad had been going through depression that was channeled into his art. He wanted to publish lyrics, poetry and short stories as well as his personal comics. “It just seemed like a natural thing to do. Plus I was taking magazine management,” he says. After graduation in December, Brad moved back home to Warner Robbins, GA., with his parents. Currently he works at a local Greek restaurant as a waiter but has been proactive in being an independent musician. He spends equal time working and researching as a musician as he does while working at the restaurant. But he knows he is in a good space—if the younger Brad could comment on his present-day endeavors, he’d say it’s “Righteous!” As for future endeavors, Brad hopes to sign other bands to his label. But since he’s on a tight budget, all the money goes toward personal projects. However, the man behind the Artists just wants to get people to feel the music the way he does, and he hopes to inspire others as well. He says, “I hope that through my music I can open doors to other bands. I want people to know that there are other bands…it’s not a singular project. It’s about taking things and bringing them together.”
Listen to Artists of War online at artistsofwar.net
georgiaugazine.com
27
The Terrapin Twilight Criterium 2013 Spokes, pedals and sweat have poured onto the Athens asphalt for over 30 years, making Twilight an event that draws the likes of 30,000 people to watch. Captured in the pages ahead are the cyclists in all of their crashing, sprinting, flying glory. PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN O. SMITH
28
ugazine
summer 2013
campus lens Clockwise from Top left: Cyclists fly by in the mountain biking portion of the 2013 Terrapin Twilight Criterium. A member of the SRAM team rushes to fix a bike during the children’s parade portion of the Terrapin Twilight Criterium. BMX bikers wait their turn during the BMX portion of the 2013 Terrapin Twilight Criterium. Next page: Left Top: BMX bikers fly through the air during the BMX portion of the Terrapin Twilight Criterium. Left Bottom: A BMX biker falls while trying to perform a trick during a competition.
georgiaugazine.com
29
30
ugazine
summer 2013
georgiaugazine.com
31
2 | Be responsible
the paw plan We’ve all seen it—we hear the first few notes, the voice singing “in the arms of the angel” and we know the second we look at the television screen we will be greeted by sad puppy faces and one-eyed kittens. The “Angel” ASPCA commercial to end animal cruelty gets to us all, tugging on our heartstrings while simultaneously making us want to change the channel. And although we grumble and groan and wish Sarah McLachlan would stop asking us to help save the animals, our hearts go out to the poor critters. For those who don’t have $18 a month to spare, here are a few tips for helping the animals in your community. by CLAIRE RUHLIN photography by lexi deagen
32
ugazine
summer 2013
1 | Get your thumbs up Social media isn’t just for friends; 15 million businesses and organizations around the world are logged into Facebook and tapping into the 1.11 billion users out there racking up pageviews. The easiest way to spread the news about Fido needing a loving home? Follow your favorite rescue groups for updates and share whenever possible. “Animal control facilities and rescue groups have seen their adoption rates increase when photos are posted on Facebook, or via an email blast,” says Cathy Wood, CEO of Circle of Friends Animal Society. Most animal shelters and rescue groups, such as the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Humane Society of the United States and local independent shelters, like Athens-Clarke County Animal Control, have Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Blogger accounts. These pages are filled with photos, videos and information on adoptable pets within the area. Be a link in the sharing train by snapping a shot with your iPhone and hashtagging or just passing along someone else’s post. “It’s easier to ignore something you can’t see,” adds Wood. “We find that people will see a photo and feel a connection to a particular animal and be moved to either adopt them or help find that animal a home.”
Pet overpopulation and its solution is no joke: 2.7 million healthy pets are put down every year according to studies conducted by the Humane Society of the United States. There’s no secret formula to bringing down those numbers either, just get your pet to the vet. “Up to half of animals that enter animal shelters each year don’t ever come out because they’re euthanized,” says Newson. “The best way to prevent that and to further our mission is for people to spay and neuter their pets.” Spaying and neutering can also help behavioral issues, decrease the risk of certain diseases and extend the life of pets. Many organizations offer lowcost clinics, like the Athens Area Humane Society Spay and Neuter Center. If your pet is brought in when they’re young, it can be $60 or less for puppies and $45 or less for kittens.
beyond the arch
4 | Get involved 3 | Go Green
Recycling through local animalwelfare organizations is another way of incorporating animalfriendly efforts into daily routine. Dropping off recyclables at local shelters or animal groups not only helps the environment, but also supports the efforts of local organizations that rescue and care for animals in need. Petco Foundation collects old cell phones and phone accessories nationwide, and uses the proceeds to help rescue, rehabilitate and vaccinate animals, as well as provide grants to local animal-welfare programs. They even provide a free printable mailing label on their website, which patrons can use to mail in old phones. You can also make an impact locally with the Athens Area Humane Society by recycling aluminum cans and printer cartridges. These proceeds directly benefit their programs in the Athens community. “We send the recyclable items to Recycle America, who then donates a check to us according to what we send,” says Amanda Newson, outreach coordinator for the Athens Area Humane Society.
Volunteering is a hands-on and rewarding way to care for homeless animals in the community without the commitment of taking one home. Contact local animal rescues and ask about volunteer positions; organizations rely on volunteer work to support their programs and typically take any help they can get. “Volunteering is also a form of donating; you’re donating your time to help us,” says Newson. “You can volunteer at either of our locations, at special events, and we also have some clerical or special-projects that you can help out with too.” Volunteers are also responsible for caring for the animals, which will give you plenty of belly rub and scratch-behind-the-ear time. “Many shelters use volunteers to bathe and walk dogs, and to help socialize puppies and kittens,” says Wood. Schedule doesn’t allow for a lot of extra time to help out? Money donations are always appreciated as well. Ask your family and friends for donations in your honor for birthdays or holidays, or just start saving up all your couch coins. Shelters use extra funds to give pro-bono animal surgeries, buy food and fund outreach programs.
5 | Buy (and save) local When volunteering just isn’t cutting it anymore and you’re ready to take the ultimate step and adopt, start with your local shelter. Rescuing is the most ethical way to help because you bypass the pet stores that often supply animals through breeders. “By rescuing an animal you are choosing not to support puppy mills and you are not adding to the out-of-control pet population,” says Tabitha Phillips, president of the University of Georgia Speak Out For Species club. “And of course, you are also doing that individual animal a favor by saving it from being euthanized. And you are doing yourself a favor by committing to help an animal that needs time and care to adjust.” Even if your heart is set on a specific breed or age group, do research beforehand because shelter advertisements often include specifics and pictures that will help you narrow down the search for the perfect german shepherd or golden retriever. Just don’t forget to keep an open mind and go check out the shelters in person—no one would ever know that a cockapoo was cute and not a mash-up gone wrong except by total accident and Google Images.
georgiaugazine.com
33
Into the Wake:
UGA wakedawgs share the sport by kelly mattick | photoGRAPHY BY Chad Hermann The waters of Lake Sydney Lanier and Jackson are home, the hum of the boat’s engine is a familiar sound and having feet strapped to a wakeboard doesn’t phase anyone. That’s why the University of Georgia’s Club Wakeboarding has started getting air—and recognition—at national competitions. The student-based team was founded by competitive wakeboarders Anthony Kennedy and J. Vinson in fall 2010. Both students met at a competition and began discussing their mutual interest in starting a competitive club at the university. Two years later, their idea became a reality. The WakeDawgs are an official UGA club sport and receive national recognition in the realm of wakeboarding. Currently ranked as third in the nation, the team competes in the Empire Wake
34
ugazine
summer 2013
Collegiate Wake Series, a southeastern conference, and has appeared two times at the Las Vegas National Competition. “We currently have 20 active members competing on a regular basis,” says Anthony Kennedy, founder and current co-captain. “We typically practice almost every weekend to prepare for the upcoming competition.” Although wakeboarding itself is a highly competitive sport, the team creates a laid back atmosphere during their practice sessions. When on the water, the riders are not hesitant to try new tricks, even if that means crashing head first into the water, which many team members have done. “Whenever I attempt a new trick, I always fall,” says Alli Hogan, a junior public relations major. “When I first began wakeboarding, I was always so sore the next day from falling every time. I would
try anything.” Hogan is not the only recent addition to the team. The WakeDawgs welcome people of all skill levels to come out and try the sport. They have taught several people with no experience to wakeboard in the two years they have been active. This summer, many members will compete in individual showcases, while others practice for the next competition season in the fall. Regardless of individual intentions, WakeDawgs has added a new item to their summer list. “The team will be volunteering with a wakeboarding camp on Lake Oconee,” said Kennedy. “ We are excited to teach at the Young Harris Water Sports Camp, and also to show the campers where practice and dedication can get you in the sport.”
DAWG TALK
where in the world are university of georgia students? Monte Carlo, Monaco @2keyoh
Xlishan, China @krknamaste
Venice, Italy @kohlerlucy
Cobh, Ireland @ladymarg Bogota, Colombia @elizabethjohnson *Want to see your Instagram pics in the next issue? Add #ugazine to your post and get a chance to be featured here.
georgiaugazine.com
35
Want more content? Check out Ugazine’s website, updated weekly! www.georgiaugazine.com
Meet Our New Columnists Covering: Food
Fashion
Sports
Sarra Sedghi
Natasha Roy
Gabe Cavallaro