The Vanguard 3.05.12 by The Vanguard

VANGUARD

THE

Student fellowship and the community: See page 5

“If it matters to the USA family, it matters to us.”

MAR. 5, 2012

car accident in humanities parking lot damages several cars

vol. 50, no. 8

Multiple cars hit in HUMB accident By cASSiE FAMBro Editor-in-Chief

CASSIE FAMBRo / EDIToR-In-ChIEF

At least seven cars were involved in an auto accident on Thursday that drew a crowd. USAPD reported no serious injuries to those involved. Exact cost of damages is not yet known. >>> More pictures on page 4.

ccording to USAPD’s lieutenant Keith West, “students need to pay more attention to others, both walking and driving,” A seven0-car accident occured on Thursday afternoon in the Humanities parking lot leading to thousands of dollars in damage. Witnesses told The Vanguard that the silver sedan (seen in picture) was coming around the corner in the central lot and struck the red truck, knocking it out of its parking place. Daniel Gardner, a freshman engineering major and owner of the truck, had just exited the vehicle when it was hit. see accident, page 4

‘you don’t get to say bye to radio’ Student Listeners mourned the final days of one of the country’s oldest radio stations, Mobile’s 97.5 WABB disability services gets mixed reviews By JAySon cUrry Sports Editor

By kAylyn McclEllAn Staff Writer

or the majority of students, college is a time when the only problems they face are research paper deadlines and cummulative finals. But for some students, daily life on campus can be a struggle. That’s where Student Disability Services (SDS) comes in. SDS is a government-mandated program designed to assist students with documented physical, emotional or mental disabilities that impact their ability to perform normal tasks. According to the mission statement, “Disability Services’ philosophy is to provide an education for individuals with disabilities see disability, page 6

When the clock struck midnight Wednesday night, WABB, the legendary Mobile radio station changed format. The radio frequency of 97.5 FM has been sold to a non-profit organization that plays contemporary Christian music. “You don’t get to say bye to radio,” WABB radio DJ Q-Tip said. Unfortunately for listeners on the gulf coast and some scattered around the world, WABB had to say goodbye. As of March 1, the station is no longer WABB. “It was somewhat last minute,” Q-Tip said about the station being sold. “But it is a business, and even though it is locally owned, it is still a business.” The radio station has been a staple on the Gulf Coast since former owner Bernie Dittman bought it from the Press-Register in 1959. It was always Dittman’s dream to own a radio station and when the opportu-

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nity came, he ran with it. After years of only playing AM radio, the next opportunity for WABB was playing FM radio in 1973. “Bernie Dittman was all about the community,” Q-Tip said. “Around Christmastime, he would go buy a ton of batteries and stand out on the corner by the station and pass them out to people for their children’s toys. “I wish we knew how much money this station has raised over the years because it has to be in the millions.” The station had become a part of the culture on the Gulf Coast and specifically in Mobile. WABB was one of just two locally owned stations left in the area and was also one of the longest running Top 40 stations in the country. listeners on the Gulf Coast have made WABB a part of their day every day since the beginning. “I grew up with them,” Kalyn McClellan, a senior English major at South Alabama said. “They took me through the ‘80s and

check out our digital edition thevanguardonline.com

jAYSon CURRY / SPoRTS EDIToR

WABB DJ Qtip mans the desk in the last days of the radio station.

‘90s and made mornings fun.” After finding out on feb. 17 the station was to be sold, the management and radio hosts knew they had just 13 days until they had to say good bye. Over those past 13 days the station contacted DJs from the past to come back to the station or to join in on the show. listeners called in to tell their stories of how WABB touched their lives in some ways.

see Wabb, page 5

in this issue (pg 7): life (pg 15): opinion (pg 12): Sports

vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR. 5, 2012

7-Day JagCast

University police blotter Editor’s note: Have a question for USAPD? Email us at editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com

USAPD: 460-6312

Mar. 5 - Mar. 11 Monday Mar. 5

Tuesday Mar. 6

Wednesday Mar. 7

Thursday Mar. 8

Friday Mar. 9

Saturday Mar. 10

Sunday Mar. 11

66 41 67 46 70 54 74 55 75 53 74 54 66 42

After last weekend’s severe weather, we will be a lot quieter this week. We’ll start off the school week with sunny skies and highs in the upper 60s for Monday and Tuesday with overnight lows in the low to mid 40s. Partly cloudy skies will dominate on Wednesday and temps will warm up slightly to the low 70s for highs and mid 50s for lows. Thursday, we’ll be mostly cloudy in advance of our next system with highs in the mid 70s with nighttime lows in the mid 50s. A cold front will move though the state Friday and Saturday bringing with it showers and thunderstorms (some of which may be strong, so stay tuned). Highs will be in the mid 70s with lows in the mid 50s. Sunday looks good as skies will be partly cloudy temperatures will be cooler with highs in the mid 60s with lows in the low 40s Sunday Night. for the latest on your forecast, severe weather updates, and what’s going on in the tropics, find us on Facebook search “StormTeam4Gamma9Wx” you can follow us on Twitter, too search “stormteam4g9wx” and find Patrick Bigbie on Twitter search “metwxpatrick”

•2/21 Unauthorized Presence Two female individuals were in an on-going argument over clothing near Delta Loop. Two pair of pants, a skirt and a sweater were confiscated from the individuals at 12:49 a.m. •2/21 Disorderly Conduct, Violation of Government Law Around 2:30 a.m., an underage student female was transported from the Grove building 15 to Providence Hospital for alcohol poisoning. •2/21 Assault third degree, Public Intoxication

A female suspect was arrested at approximately 4:16 a.m. near Delta 2 after striking a male victim in the face with a closed fist. •2/21 Property Damage A male victim returned to his car in the Mitchell Center parking lot at approximately 6:53 p.m. to find his passenger window broken. •2/22 Possession of Marijuana A male non-student was arrested near the Mitchell Center for possession of marijuana at approximately 9:09 p.m.

•2/24 Simple Assault causing physical harm A female student was struck on the face by another female student at approximately 11:38 p.m. in the parking lot of Delta 6. •2/25 Failing to Appear (Traffic) A male non-student attempted to enter a female student’s apartment in the Grove. He was turned over at approximately 11:45 p.m. to Mobile County Sheriff ’s office for Failure to Appear for a traffic warrant.

Submission and Editorial policies “University of South Alabama’s Student Voice”

Editorial editor in chief associate editor senior reporter copy editor life editor opinion editor sports editor web editor

Cassie Fambro Aaron Etheredge Matt Weaver Carey Cox Bailey Hammond Jeff Gill Jayson Curry Naquita Hunter

Distribution

distribution manager Johnny Davis distribution Angela Davis

Advertising advertising manager advertising graphic designer graphic designer

Wesley Jackson Mark Crawford II Brittany Hawkins Rex McKay

Management advising James Aucoin advising John Sellers accounting Kathy Brannan

Mission The Vanguard, the student-run newspaper of the University of South Alabama, serves its readership by reporting the news involving the campus community and surroun ding areas. The Vanguard strives to be impartial in its reporting and believes firmly in its First Amendment rights.

Send letters and guest columns to: The Vanguard University of South Alabama P.O. Drawer U-1057 Mobile, Ala., 36688. or editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com Letters and guest columns must be received by 7 p.m. on the Wednesday prior to the Monday publication. Submissions should be typed and must include the writer’s name, year, school and telephone number. All submissions become the property of The Vanguard. Unsigned letters will not be published. The Vanguard reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for length and clarity. Letters will be limited to 300 words. Letters and guest columns are the opinion of the writer. The Staff Editorial represents the consensus opinion of the Editorial Board, which is

composed of the Editor in Chief, Associate Editor, Copy Editor, Senior Reporter, and Opinion Editor. All members of the Editorial Board have the same weight during weekly Editorial Board meetings. The Vanguard has a commitment to accuracy and clarity and will print any corrections or clarifications. To report a mistake, call the Editor in Chief at 251-460-6442 or e-mail editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com. The Vanguard is published Mondays during the academic year, except for exam periods and vacations, and is published twice each summer. The Vanguard is supported in part by an allocation from student activity fees and operates in the Student Media Department of the Division of Student Affairs. Issues are available at most University buildings and select off-campus locations. The first copy is free. Additional copies are $1 each.

vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR. 5, 2012

HUMB car accident leaves at least 7 cars damaged 5 reasons accident, from page 1

“The door hit me in the back,” Gardner said. Gardner was not injured. He described his initial state as “shock”. Gardner’s father rushed the scene and was grateful that his son exited the vehicle before it was hit. “It could have been a lot worse,” Gardner said. Blakeney McKnight, a freshman in the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority was also a victim in the car accident. “I am in complete shock. It was like a domino effect once the first car hit,” Blakeley said. Witnesses believed there was texting involved in the accident, but USAPD could not confirm at this time if the driver of the silver car was indeed texting. The police report will not be available until later this week. The driver of the car received medical evaluation, but USAPD stated that there were no serious injuries. It took police several hours to process the scene and clean up the debris. Glass littered the parking lot as well as miscellaneous car parts that were knocked off in the collision, including a

bumper. If texting was involved, USAPD warns drivers that inattention to the roadway is extremely dangerous on campus. Students do recognize that it is an issue on campus. “Texting and driving is one of the main causes of accidents, and it is dangerous not only to yourself but to fellow

students,” Zadora Edwards, social work major, said. Another view is that “sometimes it should be left up to people to develop some responsibility and common sense,” according to Gaby Hellman, a meteorology major. The Vanguard will provide a follow-up after the full police report is available.

to not text and drive

1. People that text are more likely to be involved in a crash or nearcrash experience. 2. It puts others in danger, not just yourself. 3. Texting while driving is illegal in 32 states, with more to come. 4. A text that takes 4.6 seconds means you’ve driven a football field’s length at 55 mph. (CNET) 5. 16,000 people have died. (FCC)

Cassie Fambro / Editor-In-Chief

Blakeney McKnight stands outside of her car after it was hit in Thursday’s accident. McKnight was unharmed.

Staff Illustration

Editor’s note: If you see an accident or breaking news as it happens, send us your pictures. editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com or post on our Facebook page Cassie fambro / editor in chief

The domino effect resulted in a 7 car collision

The Vanguard: USA’s Student Newspaper.

vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR. 5, 2012

Student Fellowship groups ignite change in community By MATT WEAVEr Senior Reporter

ganizations until the spring of 2011. “I got to the point where I wanted to make the best of my college experit first glance, Prichard’s Alabama Village is a shell of its for- ence,” Flores said. “And I wanted to mer self. Conceived as an inexpensive make a difference.” Flores volunteers at the light of living alternative for local shipbuilders and Brookley field employees, the the Village’s after-school program Village has fallen to crime and poverty and takes a small group with him each Thursday afternoon. over the last 30 years. They mentor kids from age five Graffiti and liquor bottles litter the streets and crime is left unchecked by to recent high school graduates in a format that closely the police. resembles the Big But if you look While they serve Brothers and Big Sisclose enough, there’s ters of America. real change moving different philosophies “We know the area over the hearts and on the Word of God, is poor and rough,” minds of the neighFlores said. “So borhood’s children each share the same there’s real need for and youth, and that ultimate goal. mentorship. We get change starts at the to go in there and light of the Village talk to the kids. Community Center. We offer them help them with The charge is being led by South Alabama junior Shelton Flores, director school and friendship. There’s a Bible of the University’s Westminster Min- class, and we offer them the tools to inistries branch, an off-shoot of Spring fluence change.” As far as Flores is concerned, makHill’s Presbyterian Church. Flores enrolled at South Alabama in ing a difference and maximizing the 2010, after a tour of duty in Iraq, but value of his college education is one didn’t become involved in campus or- and the same.

WABB signs off airwaves

The Westminster Fellowship also sponsors student and faculty lunches at Faculty Court South, room 8, on Monday mornings from 11:15 a.m. 1:15 p.m. The lunch will move to Tuesdays in April to better fit student involvement. “We’ve received great feedback on our lunches,” Flores said. “It’s a great opportunity to break up the routine in your week. We’re only changing the day because many students have told us that Tuesdays just fit their schedule. So we’ve accommodated that.” The Tuesday lunch will also make it easier for interested students to attend the organization’s Bible study, which starts at 7:00 p.m. on the same day. The purpose for most campus groups is to provide fellowship and fun alongside the trials and tribulations of college life. That takes on a completely different meaning for student ministries, whose different branches affiliate from Catholic to Baptist – each represented at the University of South Alabama. While they serve different philosophies on the word of God, the Catholic Students Association, Mobile Baptist

Association and Westminster Fellowship each share the same ultimate goal. It’s about students spending time with each other in a positive environment while sharing their faith. That’s often hard to come by in the University’s fast-paced, melting pot setting. “Our goal is to be the hands and feet of Christ,” Flores said. “Our mission is more along the lines of building a relationship between students and the church. But we’re not going to force anything on you. We’re about proving a positive atmosphere first. “Student’s approach us and that’s when we extend our advice.” Events from each of the three major student fellowship groups can be found on the University’s community calendar. Westminster Fellowship is also on Facebook at “Westminster Fellowship of South Alabama.”

Are you....

rADio, from page 1 “I have never worked for a place like this in my life,” Q-tip said. “There is a bond with the listeners. We could give away anything and people would call in just because they love the station.” “I owe so much to the listeners because they actually voted me on the show,” WABB show host Rachel “Blondie” Jones said. “I was in a contest called ‘Dream Job’ and the listeners liked me.” for the disappointed listeners of WABB, they won’t have to wait long to hear at least two of the voices they loved at WABB. 104.1 WABD jumped at the opportunity to hire Q-tip as well as co-host Nick fox for their morning show. Senior Vice President/Programming for Cumulus Media Jan Jeffries spoke with allaccess.com about the hirings. “Q-TIP’s work ethic and tenacity is a perfect match for our cumulus team. More exciting announcements are coming soon as the new 104.1 WABD completes the on-air staff.”

A gamer? Music addict? Opinionated? There’s a place for you to write at The Vanguard. Shoot us an email or contact us via thevanguardonline.com

vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR. 5, 2012

Disability services disability, from page 1 through equal access, empowerment, support, resources, advocacy, collaboration and outreach throughout the University and community.” SDS works with faculty to provide reasonable accommodations, such as preadmission counseling, interpreters, extended test times and note takers. Two students with disabilities wanted to discuss their experiences with SDS. Both Anna Claire Steel, a junior English major, and Ryan Arnold, a senior English and theatre double major, rely on SDS for assistance. However, they have differing opinions of the services offered by the SDS. Steel said that SDS is very accommodating. “They are always available,” Steel said. Steel must use a wheelchair for mobility and has limited use of her hands. “I have to type everything and Disability Services has arranged for me to be able to type all of my essay exams,” Steel said. This accommodation is valuable to her, considering the majority of an English major’s work is done in an essay form. Arnold, however, hasn’t had the same experience with SDS. “They are supposed to be there for me, but I feel like they are treating me like an inconvenience,” he said. Arnold said that when he first transferred to USA, the counselor at SDS tried to discourage his being a theatre major. “They told me that the theatre department would not accommodate me because I am in a wheelchair, and no oth-

er theatre student is,” Arnold said. However, he decided to major in theatre anyway, and has done very well. He has a leading part in the upcoming production. Arnold said that he doesn’t feel comfortable talking to the staff at SDS because he doesn’t feel welcome. One issue that both Steel and Arnold agreed with is the location of the SDS office. “They used to be in the Student Center, but now they are in a new building that is not as easily accessed,” Arnold said. Arnold has to request a special route from JagTran in order to visit the office, and Steel also has difficulty getting there. “I used to just use my wheelchair to get there, but now I have to be driven,” Steel said. Another problem with the location of SDS is there is no signage, so a new student might have difficulty locating the office. The office is located at 5828 Old Shell Road, at Jaguar Drive. Also, both Steel and Arnold had a complaint about the lack of automatic doors at the SDS office. “There is a ramp, but no automatic door,” Steel said. This issue will soon be resolved, however. “I am in the process of getting an automatic door for our facility, and am talking to someone about that now. We want to at least get one on the front door,” Andrea Agnew, Director of SDS said Agnew was very reassuring in her answer and said this issue will be resolved very soon. For many students, Student Disability Services is a valuable program at USA and should be utilized by any student who needs their services. Students with questions about qualifications can contact the office at 251460-7212 or by email at specialstudents@ usouthal.edu.

jaglife

A musical taste of Russia his past Sunday afternoon, Feb. 18, Mobile Chamber Music brought a piece of Russia to Laidlaw with the duo of cellist Boris Andrianov and pianist Alexander Kobrin. The concert was one of many within the 51st season of Mobile Chamber Music, which all take place at Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, at various times throughout the year. From music legends such as Ludwig Van Beethoven to more modern composers as Dmitri Shostakovich, the pieces performed showed how music evolves over time in different cultures and how it can simply be produced with even the smallest ensemble of two people. Davis Mullenix, a music business major, said chamber music brings a greater diversity of music performances to campus. “It’s good to see the classic cello sonatas still being played, which are better than three chord pop songs,” Mullenix said. Chamber music is a type of classical music that is written for a small group of instruments. It was originally meant to be performed in a small room and has now migrated to concert halls. The variety of the pieces played demonstrated the emotion and dedication that Andrianov and Kobrin invest into their music. Both from Russia, they have received numerous awards and have played in prestigious music halls across the world, sharing their passion for music. Dr. Greg Gruner, chair of the music department, said that music like this can be a cultural experience for all students. “All chamber music can add diversity and an aspect of professionalism we can’t afford in larger ensembles,” Gruner said. The next Mobile Chamber Music concert will feature the Parisii String Quartet on March 25 at Laidlaw Performing Arts Center.

vol. 50, no. 8 / Mar. 5, 2012

USA Writer-in-Residence honored bailey hammond JagLife Editor

taylor hamm Contributing Writer

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

ry Gailllard, University of South Alabama Writer-inResidence, was awarded the 2012 Clarence Cason Award for Nonfiction on Thursday, March 1. The award is given out by the University of Alabama (UA) and named after the founder of the UA journalism department, Clarence Cason. Gaillard has been with USA since 2005 as the Writer-in-Residence for both the history and English department. In addition to being a teacher, Gaillard has written and published numerous books on the Civil Rights Movement, which is his speciality. Gaillard’s experiences have led him across writing genres, from journalism, to founding a publishing company, to research on the Civil Rights Movement in the South. A native of Alabama, Gaillard has had a wonderful literary career filled with awards from various groups. “I’m deeply honored to win this award, named for a man who be-

Courtesy of Public Relations

Frye Gaillard, USA Writer-in-Residence wins the Clarence Cason Award.

lieved in the literary possibilities of non-fiction,” Gaillard said, according to USA Public Relations. “Some great friends and great

writers have won this recognition in the past, and it feels really good to be in their company.”

AL-PASS charity golf tournament patrick herring Staff Writer

he Alabama Physician Assistant Student Society at USA will be holding its 12th Annual ALPASS Charity Golf Tournament on Saturday, April 14, at the Rock Creek Golf Club in Fairhope. Tee time is 1 p.m. for a shotgun start. This year’s tournament will benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Mobile. “The physician assistant class of 2013 is committed to improving the lives of people in our community,” this year’s tournament organizer Amy Jensen. “We hope to help support families

who are living with the reality of having a child in the hospital.” For $100 per player, participants will play 18 holes of golf and receive a riding cart, range balls, food and an opportunity to win great prizes. Space is limited and entries are on a first-come first-serve basis. The deadline to register is April 1. The tournament will be four man scramble rules, in which every player tees from the same spot, and then the players decide which of the four shots would be the best to play from. Players then all shoot from the spot they decide on and continue this way until they complete the hole. The shotgun start refers to a style of play in which the four-person teams all start at a different hole and

play through at the same time. That way the tournament will only take about as long as it takes one four player team to complete one round. In the event that there are more than 18 teams, multiple teams will tee off from the four and five par holes. In addition to the tournament, there will be a longest drive contest and challenges for closest to the pin and holes-in-one. There will be an awards presentation directly after the tournament at the Rock Creek clubhouse. For additional information or to register, go to their website at pacharitygolf.weebly.com or call 251-7537110.

vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR, 5, 2012

Curfew expansion hits Prichard allison roberts Contributing Writer

richard recently decided to adopt a juvenile curfew, which Prichard Poilce Chief Gardner says is a “carbon copy of Mobile’s juvenile curfew.” Gardner predicts a positive outcome for the new rule. “The decrease in crime in the City of Prichard will occur when parents, juveniles, families, all stakeholders and law enforcement partners work together in concert in providing and sharing information proactively,” Gardner said. “We need to return to asking the simple question with the help of the media running a public service announcement at the bottom of the television screen: Do you know where your child is?” The curfew is a response to an increase in crime over the past years, and the city hopes to hold parents more accountable for the location of their children past listed hours. Under Mobile’s curfew law passed on Nov. 1, 2011, juveniles under the age of 17 are prohibited from being on the streets between 11 p.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and from 12:01 a.m. to 6 a.m. on weekends. The police are responsible for responding to suspicious behavior by juveniles who are out past curfew hours. A guardian is contacted if minors are unable to provide a sufficient excuse for breaking the curfew, such as having a job that requires them to work late. Only in the case that a guard-

ian cannot be contacted or a minor does not comply with police orders to return home, will they be sent to the Curfew Assessment Center on St. Anthony and Broad Street. A curfew violation can result in the guardian being fined $100 for the first offense, or $500 or incarceration in the second offense. Although it may result in a decrease in juvenile offenses in the city, Adam Buck, city of Mobile public affairs coordinator, said that a change in statistics was not the city’s incen-

tive for passing the new rule. “The purpose of the curfew is not to show a year-to-year decrease in crime,” Buck said, “rather, it’s a tool for parents to use to encourage their minor children to be more responsible, and to stay out of harm’s way when crime is at its highest.” In its decision to pass the ordinance, Mobile looked at the success of many other cities such as Dallas and Jacksonville, Fla., that saw increasing public support after implementing the rule.

You can be on your way to publishdom!

tue > mar 6 Banner General Navigation Class

8:30 a.m. CSC Seminar Room “This course will introduce you to the Banner interface and functions. You will learn the Banner naming conventions for forms, tables, jobs, and reports; proper navigation techniques, setting search parameters in queries, and editing information in the forms. This is hands-on training in general navigation through Banner 8.3. Pre-requisites: Supervisor approval.”

wed > mar 7 Mid Week Cookout

11 a.m., Facutly Court South “Come out and fellowship with Westminster. Free food and music.” South Alabama Softball vs Southeastern Louisiana

6:00 p.m. at Jaguar Field South Alabama Baseball vs Nicholls State

6:30 p.m. at Stanky Field

thu > mar 8 Fairhope Film Series presents “Tabloid” bailey hammond/jaglife editor

Parents and minors alike are having to keep an extra eye on the clock with the new curfews in place during certain times of the day.

Interested in writing for the JagLife Section? Just send a writing sample to life.editor@usavanguard. com!

Weekly Lowdown

Come to the JagLife side

We drink coffee

7 p.m. at USA Baldwin County. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The “Case of the Manacled Mormon” is a documentary about a famous 1977 sex scandal in which an outspoken beauty queen kidnapped her would-be lover. For more information contact Kathy Ferniany at (251) 9288133

Want your event featured? E-mail the name, date, time, price, place and a brief tagline (under 7 words) to life.editor@usavanguard.com. Include “Weekly Lowdown” in the subject line. E-mails must be received at least 7 days before the event.

vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR. 5, 2012

Saving money and trouble when traveling jake howell JagLife Writer

niversity of South Alabama students are crossing out calendar days, just waiting for classes to end on March 9 so their Spring breaks can begin. It is an opportunity for students to relax and unwind before crunch time begins in the latter half of the semester. Beaches along the Gulf Coast are packed with college students throughout the spring as temperatures and studyinginduced craziness rise. For many students, though, the beach is just not going to cut it this year. Traveling out of the country provides students with the chance to experience just a glimpse of what the world has to offer. It also comes with a host of preparations that need to be made in order to have a successful and fun trip. One thing that many people aren’t aware of is that in areas such as Europe, the voltage used to operate electrical devices is different and, thus, our devices may not fit in their wall outlets. Imagine not having a way to charge

staff illustration

This new app from Vonage Mobile can prevent any out of country charges when you need to stay in touch with family and friends.

your cell phone, laptop or camera. “I’m going to Ireland during spring break. When it comes to the planning, I have a converter for the electricity outlets as well as my laptop and cell phone,” Erika Mims, senior creative writing major, said These converters are fairly simple to use. Many come labeled with a specific country or region in which they should be used, and all you have to do is plug your device into the converter and then plug the converter into the wall. In this age where technology is practically hardwired into our DNA, most would think nothing of sending loved ones text message updates or making calls to your mom to let her know that your plane didn’t fall out of the sky. What most people don’t realize, until they receive their cell phone bills afterward, is that cell phone companies can charge exorbitant fees on texts and calls sent from another country. Bill shock can be avoided by contacting your service provider and getting details about fees and coverage areas abroad. Also, according to arstechnica.com, don’t assume that your cell phone will

work while you’re abroad. You need to contact your wireless carrier to find out what limits your plan may have and if you will be hit with any exorbitant charges outside of your calling area. Another way to avoid getting smacked with a huge bill at the end of the month comes in the form of the Vonage Mobile App. This new app can be found on the iTunes store and Android Marketplace for free. It allows users to text other users of the app for free in over 90 countries. The app works by sending the messages via Wi-Fi, 3G and 4G networks. It’s a lot like instant messaging. Or you could leave the phone behind and use other means of communication. “When it comes to service for my phone, I’m actually not worrying about it thanks to Wi-Fi being everywhere and Facebook being an easy form of communication for friends and family. If I really do have to make a call, I can always get international roaming activated with sprint and deal with the charges later,” Mims added.

A look at Ramen in the college experience joel ponce Contributing Writer

Breakfast Ramen (courtesy hackcollege.com)

here are many ways in which college students are different, but most are similar in regards to spending. In short, college students are on a budget. In order to make the most out of what little money one can manage to scrounge up some college students resort to cutting their budget. One area that many students cut their budget in happens to be in dining. So let’s talk about cheap food. As a matter of fact let’s talk about quite possibly one of the cheapest foods: Ramen. Most of us have had some sort of experience with them. They are cheap, quick to make, come in a small package and are light (perfect for college students). Some people have failed to realize just how perfect they really are, until now. The infographic created by hackcollege.com outlines some fun facts about ramen including how much money you could save if you ate them every day of

Calories: 310 Fat: 12 grams

courtesy greg voakes/hackcollege.com

Hackcollege.com put together a delightful infographic with statistics about ramen consumption, its place in the economy and a selection of easy recipes to spice up your rame n life. the year. Here’s a clue: eating ramen for every meal 365 days a year would cost an average of $142.65. Thankfully, hackcollege.com provides us with a selection of recipes to vary the appearance and flavor once ramen be-

comes a tad undesirable on its own. Check out the recipes, make other recipes, take pictures and send them to us! We would love to see what kind of crazy ramen recipes we have around South Alabama.

Ingredients: Saugage $1.50 1 egg $0.20 Salsa $1.50 Total Cost: $3.33 Steps: Cook sausage and scramble egg together on the stove. Add scrambled egg, slices sausage and salsa to cooked ramen noodles.

vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR. 5, 2012

vol. 50, no. 8 / Mar. 5, 2012

sports

Return of the best

USA’s Brandon Ross back from knee injury

courtesy of scott donaldson

South Alabama runningback Bramdon Ross runs through the line of scrimmage during a game. patrick herring Staff Writer

pring practice has started for South Alabama football with much anticipation. Some players are working for a higher position on the depth chart, while others are looking to stamp their name on the program in their last year of eligibility. Senior running back Brandon Ross is just glad to be back on the field. After injuring his knee midway through the 2010 season, he was forced to watch the final five games from the sidelines. Medical complications forced him to undergo a second surgery and he sat out all of last season with the injury. “It was real hard, knowing that I could help the team and not being able to,” Ross said. “But it kept me mentally hungry.” The recovery process has been slower than the coaching staff expected. Running backs coach Tommy Perry said they originally expected him to return at the end of last season, but it just wasn’t medically possible. Ross feels he is at about 75 percent right now, but getting better. Head coach Joey Jones is optimistic

about his progress though. “It seems to be going well, we’re just trying to be cautious with the tackling,” Jones said. “Give him another month and I think he’ll be back at 100 percent. “ Ross isn’t too keen on being held back though, according to Perry. “We keep taking him out, and he keeps throwing himself right back in,” Perry said. Following his freshman season at the University of Memphis, Ross (6’0”, 240 lbs.) transferred to USA to play football for the Jaguars. In his first season he led the team in rushing with 594 yards and 13 touchdowns. He was on pace to post similar numbers in 2010, racking up 274 yards and five touchdowns before getting hurt. Ross likes the new look spread offense being installed by recently hired offensive coordinator Robert Matthews. He hopes to have a bigger role in the game plan in the upcoming season. “I plan to be the power back, stick my nose in there on third downs and move the chains,” Ross said. Perry, who has a stable of experienced running backs going into next season,

sees big things for Ross if he can get completely healthy. “From a maturity standpoint, from a pass-blocking standpoint, and from a power standpoint, he’s the best back we’ve got and we’re gonna stick with him,” Perry said. Coach Jones is also excited to see Ross in the spread offense. “When we get the opposing defenses spread out, Brandon is just going to gash them up the middle, and he’s also a great blocker in the passing game,” Jones said. “He’s really everything we need for this offense.” The prospect of playing Division 1 programs such as Mississippi State and the University of Hawaii brought a smile to Ross’ face. “I’m excited. Its better competition, and we want to prove to them that just because we are a startup program doesn’t mean we are gonna be pushovers,” Ross said. Going into his last year of eligibility at South, Ross has simple goals: stay healthy and graduate.

jayson curry, sports Editor sports.editor@usavanguard.com

2012 USA football schedule released The wait for the 2012 football schedule has finally ended. The Sun Belt Conference released the full schedule for the 2012 season for all Sun Belt teams and that includes South Alabama. The Jaguars will open the season with back-to-back home games against University of Texas-San Antonio on Sept. 1. Last season the Jags traveled to the Road Runners and beat them in overtime. The game against UTSA will be followed by a home game on Sept. 8 against Nicholls State. The Jags will then travel the next two weeks making a return trip to Raleigh, N.C., to face N.C. State on Sept. 15. The Wolf Pack gave USA their first loss in the history f the program last season. The second game on the road for the Jags will be in Starkville, Mississippi against SEC foe Mississippi State on Sept. 22. In the last week of September, the Jaguars will play their first Sun Belt Conference game against in-state rival Troy at Ladd-Peebles stadium in Mobile. The USA football team will then swap between home and road games for the remainder of the season. The home schedule includes Florida Atlantic on Oct. 20, Florida International on Nov. 3 and ending the home games with Middle Tennessee on Nov. 17. The last two games of the 2012 season will be on the road at Louisiana-Lafayette on Nov. 24 and finally the longest trip the Jags have ever made, at Hawaii on the first of December. The 2012 season is part of the twoyear transition period for USA to join the NCAA football Bowl Subdivision meaning they won’t be able to compete in a post season bowl game or the SBC championship game. Before the 2012 season starts, the football team will hold its annual spring football game on March 24 at 2 p.m. at Ladd-Peebles stadium in Mobile. During the game, the box offices will open at Ladd stadium to allow fans to purchase tickets for the 2012 season. And after the spring game, fans will be allowed on the field for player autographs.

vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR. 5, 2012

Lady Jags advance to sunday, fall to UALR jt crabtree Sports Reporter

he South Alabama’s women basketball team made it to the quarterfinals of the Sun Belt Conference tournament Sunday after a dominant 6238 win over Arkansas State Saturday in Hot Springs, Ark. The Lady Jags were set to face Arkansas-Little Rock Sunday and were unfortunately beaten by the Lady Trojans by a score of 60-54, knocking them out of the SBC tournament. In Saturday’s game, the Lady Jags used stellar defense and an edge in rebounding to beat the Lady Red Wolves. South Alabama held Arkansas State to just 27.8 percent from the field for the game while shooting almost 38 percent themselves. USA finished the game with three players in double figures in rebounds, led by senior forward Taylor Ammons who finished with eight points and 13 rebounds. Guard Mansa El led all scorers

with 15 points, including 6-of-8 from the free throw line. The Lady Jag defense forced the Red Wolves to miss all but two of their 3-point attempts in the game, making only two. The Jags also forced 13 turnovers in the game and only allowed three assists. On Sunday, the Lady Jags was just short of a semi-final bid in the Sun Belt tournament. USA was led by Mary Nixon who scored 13 points and added eight rebounds and Taylor Ammons who had eight points and 13 rebounds. Senior guard Sarda Peterson had a rough outing in her last game as a Jaguar making just 2-of-9 from the field and making only one of her seven three-point attempts. The Lady Trojans were led by freshman guard Taylor Gualt who made 12-of-26 shots, scoring a game high 29 points. USA shot 31.1 percent of their shots from the floor as UALR made 43.1 percent in the game. The Lady Jags end the season with 17-13 record including a 9-7 conference record.

jayson curry/sports editor

USA’s Veronica Cherizol puts up a shot in a game against MTSU earlier in the season.

Combine a showcase of talent, change

courtesy of bleacherreport.com

Heisman winner Robert Griffin running at the 2012 NFL combine. jayson curry Sports Editor

fter every season of college and NFL football ends, many football fans seem to go into a depression. They have spent the last few months planning cookouts and cheering for their favorite team, and now it’s all over. One thing these fans look forward to after the seasons end is the NFL scouting combine.

courtesy of bleacherreport.com

Memphis lineman running at the 2012 NFL combine. The combine is great for several reasons. Each player gets an opportunity to show his talents and athletic ability as well as wow the pro teams during interviews. Also, teams can watch players and talk to players they are interested in drafting and spending millions on. Some people have referenced the NFL combine as a job fair for athletes. The combine consists of multiple events including the 40-yard dash, 225 lb. bench press and other running drills as well as drills that are run by specific positions. What stands out the most about the

combine is that you can literally see the way football has evolved, and it’s not very difficult. Every year there are several of players who out-perform everyone else at the combine. It could be running back Chris Johnson, running a record 4.24-second 40-yard dash. Or it could be defensive lineman Steven Paea breaking the bench press record, pushing up 225 lbs. 49 times. In recent years, the athletes have been expected to do more, to be better and faster at different positions. For defensive lineman entering the NFL, they are now expected to not only be strong athletes, but they have to be fast. With the way offenses in the NFL and college have become more spread out and about speed; the defense has to do the same. Defensive ends are required to stand up and play linebacker or cover a tight end on a pass play. Defensive linemen have to be able to play on the end and rush the passer. And linebackers must be big enough to stop the run on the inside but fast enough to keep up with receivers and the new, faster version of the tight end. You can see these changes in the results from this year’s NFL combine. Defensive lineman Bruce Irvin amazed the crowd in Indy with a 4.5-second 40-yard dash at 250 pounds. And the most impressive of them all was Memphis defensive lineman Dontari Poe.

Poe dramatically improved his draft stock when he bench pressed 225 lbs. 44 times and followed that by running a 4.87-second 40-yard dash. The time doesn’t seem that impressive, but when you factor in that Poe weighs nearly 350 lbs., that is incredible. On the flip side, the offensive game has changed. With the increased speed on defense, positions like quarterback and tight end have been forced to become faster and more agile. Star NFL tight end Vernon Davis once ran a 4.38 second 40-yard dash. And at this year’s combine Louisiana-Lafayette tight end Ladarius Green ran a 4.53 second 40 at 6’6” and 238 lbs. And the real show is at the quarterback position. Last year Cam Newton ran a 4.59-second 40-yard dash and he is 6’5” and 248 lbs. At this year’s combine all eyes were on Heisman winner Robert Griffin and assumed first overall pick in the draft Andrew Luck. Luck put up numbers that were great after running a 4.67, but Griffin topped Luck after he ran the third fastest 40 by a quarterback ever at just 4.41 seconds. It’s amazing how football changes as well as the players that play the game. It’s hard to say what changes first or how it happens but one thing is for sure, you can always look at the combine and see it in action.

vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR. 5, 2012

Jaguar baseball stumbles out of gate

courtesy of bobbie mcduffie

Pre-season All-Sun Belt Conference team selection Nolan Early jt crabtree Sports Reporter

hrough the first three weeks of the season, the Jags have a tough go of it to start the Mark Calvi Era, losing 2 out of 3 of their games so far. The Jags pitching depth was a problem last year, especially in the bullpen. But in 2012, the bullpen has

been a strength, boasting an ERA of 2.40. Senior lefty Phillip Byrd leads the relievers with a 1.54 ERA, and is second on the team with 13 strikeouts. Jordan Patterson has also been a shot in the arm coming in late in games for the Jags as well. Starting pitchers Jarron Cito and Anthony Izzio have been bright spots in the starting rotation. Cito, the Opening Day starter, owns an ERA

Men’s basketball

of 3.31, and leads the team with 17 strikeouts in 16.1 innings pitched. But also leads the team with 11 walks. Izzio leads the team with a 1.38 ERA through 13 innings pitched. Izzio also leads the starters in opponent batting average, allowing a hit only two out of 10 times. Outside of the aforementioned players, the pitching staff has been spotty but has shown flashes of dominance that was expected coming into the season. The Saturday and Sunday starters, Peyton Gardner and Dillon Buhrkuhl, have had a tough stretch to start their USA careers. Both have the highest ERA’s on the pitching staff; Gardner with a 6.75 ERA and Buhrkuhl with a 10.12 ERA. The bright side is that it is still early in the season, and there is plenty of time for the pitchers to show their talent that caused them to catch the eye of Coach Calvi, Gardner and Buhrkuhl will be given all the opportunity they need to shake the early season rust. Hitting has been lacking so far as well, but the hitting always comes in streaks, and currently some of the Jags are in a cold streak. As a team, the Jags are hitting .233, 41 RBI’s, 44 walks compared to 85 strikeouts, and are still looking for their first home run of the season. Failing to drive in runs with runners in scoring position has been the

major hole in the lineup, as well as late or close game situations. On a positive note, Kevin Knapp, Drew Cofield and Nick Zaharion have stepped up in injury situations. Zaharion leads the Jags with 9 RBI’s, and is hitting .300 on the season. Cofield is batting .333 with 7 RBI’s. Kevin Knapp, who is playing the role of the Utility player, is leading the team with a .438 batting average. Nolan Earley is also batting .300 with a team-leading 12 hits and five doubles. The injuries have been the major thorn in the Jags side, with four starters in the infield out with injuries. Catcher JT Files has a hand injury. Third Baseman Robby Campbell will be out for extended time after taking a groundball to the face and sustaining facial injuries. Shortstop Trey Cockrell injured his ankle in warmups last week and could be out for six weeks. All-Sun Belt second Baseman Logan Kirkland is also out six to eight weeks with a broken foot. Before the season, South Alabama was predicted to finish third in the Sun Belt, and the amount of injuries early on have made this season a trying one. The Jags have been on the road, but return home Wednesday to host Nicholls State at 6:30 p.m. The following home game will be next Tuesday, March 13, when the Jags host Auburn at 6:30 p.m.

The south Alabama men’s basketball team competed in the Sun Belt Conference tournament this weekend. Saturday, the Jags defeated their in-state rival Troy 87-81. USA finished the game with four players in double figures, led by Augustine Rubit and Freddie Goldstein. Rubit finished the contest with 18 points and 11 rebounds after finishing the regular season with the most double-doubles in the conference. Goldstein would finish the game with 25 points, making 7-of-15 shots from the floor including four three-point shots. Troy was led by Will Weathers who finished the game with 17 points. The Jags 50.9% in the game while holding Troy to just 40.3%. With the win over Troy, USA advanced to face conference foe Denver on Sunday. South Alabama would keep the game close for most of the game but faded at the end and lost the contest 61-50. The Jags were led by all-conference player Augustine Rubit who finished the game with 21 points on 7-of-10 shooting from the field. USA freshman Mychal Ammons also had a stand out performance for the Jags in the loss. Ammons finished with 15 points and 12 rebounds.

jayson curry/ sports editor

USA senior forward Antione Lundy puts up a lay-up against MTSU earlier in the season.

The Jags we’re outshot after shooting just over 36% and allowing the Pioneers to shoot 44.2%. The loss ends the Jags season with a record of 17-12.

Opinion

JEFF gill, oPInIon EDIToR opinion.editor@usavanguard.com vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR. 5, 2012

Frontlines without women Signs of oppression?

AliciA BUrES Contributing Writer There is a certain type of conversation that I have periodically with anti-feminists who muster up a lot of anger about perceived privileges that women have. One most commonly mentioned is that women aren’t subject to the draft. Never mind the fact that we haven’t had a draft since 1973; the reason that women are not required to register for selective service, according to the Department of Defense, is because women are not permitted to serve on the front lines of combat. The Pentagon recently announced that it would open up more positions to women, acknowledging the fact that although their titles don’t reflect it, many women do basically serve in close to front line combat. However, women are still barred from front line positions. The actual issue is that women don’t have equality in the military. While that may be seen by some as a privilege, it is certainly not seen that way by the active duty women who are denied the opportunity for promotion because they can’t serve on the front lines. This restriction comes from a sexist belief that men are protectors and women are nurturers, therefore women, and their principle purpose in life (to make babies), must be protected. Rick Santorum’s recent comments on women in the military illustrate this attitude. He said, “men have emotions when you see a woman in harm’s way. I think it’s something that’s natural, that’s very much in our culture to be protective.” He is concerned that male soldiers wouldn’t be able to fight alongside women on the front lines

because of the emotions involved in seeing women hurt. I think he’s right to say that this is a part of our culture. However, in war men are expected to face major atrocities, it is unreasonable to assume they wouldn’t be able to deal with comrades being women. While Santorum argued that men would be too distracted by the idea of their female colleagues being hurt, fox News contributor Liz Trotta took a different approach. She argued against female military presence with the claim that male service members would actually be tempted to hurt them. When the Pentagon announced that it would be opening more positions to females in the military, Trotta decried this decision using the prevalence of rape as evidence that the military is not a place for women. The problem of rape in the military is not a problem of the number of women; it is a problem of the number of rapists. Because complaints of sexual assault are dealt with through the chain of command, perpetrators are often not held accountable for their actions. An increase in sexual assault is something that needs to be dealt with, not a reason to keep women out of the military. These arguments against women’s equality in the military are centered on the sexist idea that there is a massive difference between women and men, and strange ideas about women’s need for protection- from men, from war, even from their own decisions. So when men talk about how unfair it is that women don’t have to register for selective service, I agree with them.

Editorialboard

cassie Fambro Aaron Etheredge Jeff gill Matt Weaver Bailey hammond Jayson curry

> > > > > >

Editor in Chief Associate Editor opinion Editor Senior Reporter life Editor Sports Editor

A STAFF EDITIORIAL

Campus is not a speedway; slow down Being behind a wheel is the same as having a gun in your hand. Whether you realize it or not, you’re looking down the barrel of a weapon that has the power to kill. Parking lots at USA are not Bristol Motor Speedway, as one witness described Thursday’s accident. On any given day, vehicles can be seen speeding through parking lots and around pedestrains on crosswalks, if they even stop at all. Is it going to take a death to make people realize that they need to slow down or put the phone up? We’ve all heard the spiel a million times regarding the dangers of texting and driving or driving while distracted. The massive car accident on Thursday demonstrated that anything can happen. The young man struck by a car door is lucky that he wasn’t in his vehicle. The girl driving the silver car is lucky to be alive after such a hard hit. Anyone standing there would have been struck and possibly killed. There is a point where you aren’t playing Angry Birds and you’re not telling your best

freind what color pumps you’re wearing tonight to the formal. You’re endangering people’s lives. Imagine clutching the wheel and knowing you have hit another human being. What are you going to tell your parents? On this versatile college campus, it could be someone of normal college age, or it could even be a child. Regardless, it’s a human life, and it’s not worth the risk. Speed limits aren’t posted around campus to make you late to class. leave earlier and get there alive. Beleive it or not, it’s not always about you. When you’re behind the wheel of a car, it’s also about every other car, bike, and person in your range. Human life is far more important than being five minutes late to a class. Put the phone down and slow down. You’re not going to end up going to class if you hit someone. You might end up in the hospital, or jail. Not to mention your insurance premium. Pay attention, USA.

JagPulse: Does USA need an official tardy rule for professors?

Find us on Facebook! Search “The Vanguard USA” Need a public outlet for your private rages? Contact Jeff Gill.

The

Vanguard Viewpoint

“yeah, i do that anyway. Teachers should let students know in advance that they are running late or will be absent.”

“yeah, of course! Time is precious to college students. Why should we bother to come to class if the teacher is going to be late?”

“yes. isn’t it hypocritical of teachers to tell us to be on time when they have no accountability themselves?”

Tenathius Bassett criminal Justice Junior

Ana Pulaski Pre-occupational Therapy Senior

Quetavia Mccord leisure Studies/Sports Mgmt. Sophomore

vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR. 5, 2012

point Counterpoint

Should alternative energy research be subsidized by American government?

Editor’s Introduction: Obama has re-kindled his rhetoric to target an ‘all-of-the-above’ strategy for energy production and development. With the Department of Energy funding as a majority of alternative energy research, a hotbed of debate erupts between the fiscally-minded taxpayers and those skeptical of corporate willpower.

Point » Green can thrive in private research

s fuel costs remain high, we’re fighting a recession with one hand tied behind our backs. So much of our way of life depends on inexpensive energy. As fuel costs rise, Russ Hardin so too do the prices of Contributing writer food and every other consumer good on store shelves. This will only serve to deepen recession and make it much more difficult for alreadystruggling American households to make ends meet, much less recover and prosper. The Obama administration has snidely implied that it would like to see gasoline prices more than double from current highs and continued to prop up failing ‘green energy’ businesses while continuing to act with open hostility towards fossil fuel producers. This will not permit economic recovery nor will it aid the cause of developing alternative energy sources. The Department of Energy (DOE) has for the last three years issued billions of dollars in loans to companies that make products designed to provide energy without expending coal or oil. Solar panels, more efficient home insulation, electric vehicles, the list continues to grow. Almost every ‘winner’ the DOE has tried to pick or prop up has failed spectacularly; Solyndra, the much-vaunted producer of thin-film solar cells, collapsed in spite of DOE-sponsored loans that exceeded $535 million. General Motors has experienced a sales flop with the Chevy Volt, developed and manufactured in newly-built facilities on the U.S. taxpayers’ dime and owing to poor sales has shut down the Volt production line effective March 19 for a period of at least five weeks. Stimulus-funded efforts to re-insulate older homes with newer, more thermally efficient insulation were plagued by graft and shoddy work carried out by unscrupulous and inexperienced contractors. This is to say nothing of outright criminals eager to make a quick buck from a poorly-administered program. What is the common thread in this administration’s abysmal track record rolling the political and fiscal dice on green energy? Without substantial government subsidi-

Counterpoint » Diversifying energy required

zation, alternative energy sources, with the exception of nuclear power, are not competitive at the price point compared to fossil fuelpowered devices that provide similar energy outputs. The typical American consumer simply cannot afford these new technologies, and until their efficiencies improve and manufacturing processes are streamlined to significantly reduce costs, they will not be viable. In the meantime, readily available deposits of oil and natural gas remain untapped. Issuance of drilling permits in the Gulf of Mexico is at a near-standstill, keeping thousands of Gulf Coast oil workers out of jobs, to say nothing of a growing chain of businesses that cater to oilfield workers. Fuel costs rise at a breakneck pace, adding to the strain on all of us. Nobody will argue that the Obama Administration should abandon its alternative energy pursuits exclusively in favor of fossil fuels, far from it. It would be sufficient for the DOE to stop investing taxpayer money in new technologies that should be funded by private investors. Leave it to private citizens with their own brains to determine what works and what doesn’t, and invest accordingly. Additionally, the Department of Energy should stop punishing petroleum producers by choking off supplies in Canada and the Gulf. Don’t exclusively favor petroleum, just get out of its producers’ ways provided they operate safely and responsibly.

etroleum speculators would have you believe that if there were more drilling, there would be more oil in the world market. I recently had a Jeffrey Gill conversation with Opinion Editor someone about the issues she actually cared about. She told me point blank that gas prices were her biggest concern in this economic climate. This is not an isolated case. Politicians have to write their rhetoric by speculators’ rules and voters’ wishes to defend their re-election campaigns. Obama is no exception, but his tactics are different. His plan to diversify energy resources and increase the efficiency of systems is a grab for the votes from voters that worry about job creation. In order to reach the level of competitive pricing that wind would need, research has to be conducted. If it were as simple as allowing your Exxons and your Southern Companies to invest in alternative energy, wind would be much more competitive. As a corporation, where the bottom line is the primary deciding factor, alternative energy research gets the scraps of any excess profit. According to Alternative Energy News, Chevron invests $300 million in renewable energy per year. Compared to their 2011 profit of MarketWatch’s $26.9 billion calculation, a whopping 1.1 percent of the profit generated is dedicated to renewable energy. Research is not an incourtesy of earthandindustry.com vestment energy compa-

Government subsidies for alternative energy totaled at $2.22 billion in 2010.

nies want to make when fossil fuels are so easily found in our backyard. It is simply not economically sound logic. So, with the relatively inert state of privatized research debunked, what alternatives are there? The Department of Energy has put billions of dollars into the research of alternative energy, and sizeable returns in efficiency have come of them. A study conducted by the Bloomberg New Energy Finance estimates that average offshore wind will be competitive with coal, gas and nuclear energy by 2016. In this scenario, there would be no need to subsidize wind after that benchmark. Energy consumption per capita will go down if petroleum speculators keep hiking gas prices. When this is coupled with the energy efficiency gains, American families will be able to function with less energy overall. Presently, there is a budding front of the energy industry that focuses on small-scale energy output. Decentralized power plants are only used as backups for emergencies in hospitals and other locations that can’t afford power outages. When it becomes less expensive to maintain energy costs with decentralized power generation than it is to hook up to the grid, it will be a rapid transition from the current, central-plant model to a decentralized, do-what-works energy economy. For example, some places might be better for geothermal, where some are optimal for wind. Even solar may become competitive! As the cost to build electricallypowered transportation goes down, the country shifts from a petroleum-based economy, and onward to a new, independent and democratic order of energy. Of course, the majority may choose to stay in a fossil fuel-driven economy and keep driving Hummers and Yukons. Skeptics of diversifying energy subsidies should remember that with private research, there is virtually no short-term profit. Where could the progress come from, if not tax dollars and direct spending of some sort. Mittens would approve of this kind of creativity.

vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR. 5, 2012

Letter to the Editor Veteran takes issue with student comments Dear Editor, As I was gathering with several alumni of South Alabama seeking to establish a new Alumni Chapter here in Los Angeles this last week, we were all given copies of the Vanguard. This, of course, brought me back to my days at South. I was very happy (and amused) to see that the value of the SGA is still being debated as was the value of general education classes, and that you devote considerable space to the updates on the sports teams. It seems that some things never change! I was, however, taken aback by the editorial concerning mandatory military service. The comments made by Matthew Cooper are particularly dis-

turbing as they are contradictory and reflect a remarkable lack of sensitivity and understanding. Mr. Cooper states that “no mentally sane person would sign up as an infantry man to get shot at”. Further he says that “there are only two reasons for it: either they are mentally messed up and need psychiatric help or they have an entirely wrong idea of what war is like and join for the wrong reasons”. Perhaps he should share those thoughts with the family of Pat Tillman. He gave up a successful pro football career to enlist after Sept. 11. He died serving our country, protecting the rights of people like Mr. Cooper. I don’t believe that he was ei-

ther insane or confused about what war was like. Neither do I believe that he joined to “prove his manhood, have adventures, get medals or make money”. I have several close friends whose sons have also enlisted. One gave up a very lucrative career on Wall Street to enlist in the Marine Corps. He is now a captain and has served four tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Another postponed college to enlist in the Army because he felt this burden on his heart to serve and protect his fellow citizens. Both have seen things that people shouldn’t have to see… all in an effort to give me (and Mr. Cooper) the security to live our lives in comfort and safety. Millions more serve for the very same reasons. I’ve had the privilege to spend time on The USS Abraham Lincoln (a nuclear aircraft carrier) and onboard the USS Portsmouth (a Los Angeles class nuclear submarine).

I met quite a few 19-, 20- and 21- year-old sailors. They were articulate, dedicated and committed to the protection of our Country and our way of life. None were putting their life on the line for the meager pay, months away from family and long, dangerous hours in foreign places that they are subjected to. And I think they would reject the argument that they “are scrapped off the bottom of the melting pot”. To even say that shows a remarkable lack of knowledge and an incredible amount of disrespect. To Mr. Cooper: Son, please continue to say things like God bless America, believe in and enjoy the freedoms guaranteed by the volunteers you look down on. And as the old saying goes, “It’s easy to be wise. Think of something stupid to say… and then don’t”. Michael Wojciechowski BS ‘ 78/MBA ‘81

Write for The Vanguard. Email editor.in.chief@usavanguard.com with writing samples. Slots available in all sections. The giraffe is irrelevant.

vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR. 5, 2012

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vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR. 5, 2012

Quote

The best years of your life are the ones in which you decide your problems are your own. You do not blame them on your mother, the ecology, or the president. You realize that you control your own destiny. ~Albert Ellis

Aries: 3/21 - 4/19 If at first you don’t succeed, you’re probably not doing it the way you were told to do it begin with. Taurus: 4/20 – 5/20 This week, you will attempt to buy antifreeze for your car, bleach for your laundry, batteries for your remote, and Advil: Cold and Sinuses for your congestion. Gemini: 5/21 – 6/21 The USAPD will raid your Delta 6 dorm at 3 a.m. on an anonymous tip about a suspected meth lab. Cancer: 6/22 – 7/22 No one likes you because you keep harassing people on Facebook. Leo: 7/23 – 8/22 You’re confused as to why your horoscope is wrong.

Picture of the Week

Virgo: 8/23 – 9/22 If you don’t recall there being a speed bump where you suddenly feel one tonight, it was probably someone jogging without a glow strap. Libra: 9/23 – 10/22 Libras should be on guard for underwear thieves. Gnomes are known to strike between the hours of 11 P.M. and 1 A.M. Scorpio: 10/23 – 11/21 There’s a reason why your girlfriend only drinks when you’re around. And it’s not because it’s “fun to get drunk”.

Sagittarius: 11/22 – 12/21 That awkward moment when you call someone and it’s not who you meant to call.

Capricorn: 12/22 – 1/19 You’ll sit next to a stranger on the JagTran today. You’ll later read about someone sitting next to a “nasty, overly sensitive, pervert with blonde hair” today on FML. You will wonder if it’s about you all night. Aquarius: 1/20 – 2/18 You must UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES miss your Wednesday class. If you do, you will suffer unimaginable consequences. Pisces: 2/19 – 3/20 Yes, your boyfriend was with her last night. To add to insult, she has a unibrow, doesn’t know what soap is, and stockpiles small bits of food in her belly button for “hard times”.

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Staff Illustration

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vol. 50, no. 8 / MAR. 5, 2012