April 23 2018 by The Vanguard

anguard V If it matters to you, it matters to us.

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA

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MONDAY APRIL 23, 2018 VOL 1719 ISS 19

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Starbuck’s and racial-bias training On campus Starbucks will not close on May 29.

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Farewell from Editor in Chief

BY: SHANNON LUNDGREN | EDITOR IN CHIEF

I always thought of myself as the kind of person who could make hard choices. My tenure as Editor in Chief of The Vanguard gave me ample ground to prove myself in that regard. The hardest decision I made this year didn’t revolve around staffing decisions, which stories to cover or anything like that; it was a decision that affected the future of The Vanguard, itself. I made the decision to take The Vanguard down from publishing weekly to monthly. After much research and discussion, my staff, the Student Board of Communications and The Vanguard’s advising faculty support this decision. It Continued on page 13

Accounts from the jail cell

USA Bookstore management to be outsourced.

One student recounts his night spent in Mobile County Metro Jail.

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Mock mass casualty drill University of South Alabama nursing and physician assistant students attended a mass casualty simulation BY: RICHARD NARRAMORE | ASST. MANAGING EDITOR

Shannon Lundgren served as Editor in Chief of The Vanguard for the 2017-18 school year. Photo by Briana Cunningham

USA merchandise on sale

Physician assistant and nursing students received emergency response during a mock mass casualty drill at the University of South Alabama Human Simulation Lab. Assistant Director of USA Simulation Program Lori Moore said the drill was designed to train future medical professionals on how to deal with mass casualty events and how to treat disaster victims and their family members. “We are learning in the event

The mass casualty simulation training took place in the Allied Health Building. Photo by Briana Cunningham

of a disaster how would we perform as nurses and we are working interprofessionally with the PA students,” USA nursing student Carole Aomo said. “In an event, should it occur, how would we apply our skill in helping the people surrounding us and in the environment to make sure everybody is taking care of and seen and the correct medical attention is associated with each person.”

Mason Morris, a physician assistant studies program student, said he was grateful for the chance to learn how to control his emotions in a high-stress situation. “This type of training is invaluable in our education,” Morris said. “Were learning how to handle our emotions in these sorts of incidents.” The drill consisted of three Continued on page 3

Changes to Pell Grant announced BY: TRICIA WEST | ELECTRONIC FILE MANAGER

The National Association of Student Financial Aid Administration announced that the Senate’s version of the Labor, Health, Human Services and Education 2018 fiscal

year funding bill included a proposed $100 increase to the maximum Pell Grant award. “We recently were informed that the Pell Grant for 2018-2019 will be $6095,” the University of South Alabama’s Office of Financial Aid

stated. “Summer financial aid is also now available for students. Year round Pell Grant will allow students to receive up to 150 percent of their Pell Grant funds in one academic year, if eligible. “ Continued on page 4

NEWS

Vanguard Pets of USA: Coco, Paco and Sochi THE

University of South Alabama Alpha Hall South Room 336 Mobile, Ala., 36688 Tel: 460-7966 I Fax: 380-2850 Advertising: 460-7966 thevanguardeditor@gmail.com

Pets of USA is aimed to showcase a little bit of cuteness and happiness around USA. Note that pets are not allowed to live in USA housing without special permissions. All pets featured must be legally owned. To submit pictures for Pets of USA, email TheVanguardEditor@gmail.com with the pet’s name and owner’s name. This week, Frances Henson’s dogs Coco, Paco and Sochi grace our pages.

STAFF Editor in Chief Managing Editor Asst. Managing Editor Copy Editor Opinion Editor Sports Editor Web Editor Electronic File Mgr. Reporters

Shannon Lundgren Marissa Mason Richard Narramore Amber-Lynn Boothe Rachel Goodman Charles Harrison Krisha Amin Tricia West Hannah Blackburn Kenyan Carter Elaine Russ Natasha Spradlin Rachel Sullivan Photographers Briana Cunningham Cartoonist Clay Lolley

Advertising Advertising Manager Preston Smith Graphic Designer Jennette Bago

Advisors Advising Heather Leigh Stanley James Aucoin Advisor Emeritus John Sellers

Coco, Paco and Sochi Henson love going camping to get away from the hustle and bustle of every day life. Photo courtesy of Frances Henson

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

Send letters and guest columns to: thevanguardeditor@gmail.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, JagMail and telephone number. All submissions become the property of The Vanguard. The Vanguard reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for length and clarity. The Vanguard has a commitment to accuracy and clarity and will print any corrections or clarifications. To report a mistake, e-mail thevanguardeditor@gmail. 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 Office of Student Media. Issues are available at most University buildings and select offcampus locations. Freelance writers and photographers will receive payment upon successful publication.

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Even while kayaking, Coco, Paco and Sochi Henson cannot escape their many admirers. Photo courtesy of Frances Henson

Sochi dreams of trying out for the Jaguar’s baseball team and practices intently by playing fetch. Photo courtesy of Frances Henson

NEWS

Mock mass casualty drill, cont’d gram. “This situation was high energy, fast, it was like nothing we have

“This type of training is invaluable in our education. We’re learning how to handle our emotions in these sorts of incidents.” - Mason Morris

USA nursing and physician assistant students triaged actors portraying victims of a simulated mass causality. Photo by Briana Cunningham

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stages. In the first stage, trained actors portrayed as victims of a mass casualty as PA and nursing students traiged the wounded and assessed their need medical need. In the second stage, students provided care for the critically ill,

such as CPR, advanced cardiac life support and fluid resuscitation. Aomo said her patient was a 19-year-old African-American male who had received a gunshot wound to the neck. “We were trying to give him the best care possible,” Aomo said. In the final stage of the drill,

instructors debriefed and gave feedback to students on how they performed. USA Simulation Program Director Dr. Mike Jacobs came up with the idea for the drill so students would have a pilot to teach them, according to Lori Moore, assistant director of USA Simulation Pro-

done before,” Aomo said. “It’s not an environment that we picture ourselves ever being in and we wouldn’t know what to do in a situation like this had we not had this simulation. This simulation was amazing because not everybody wants to be in that high-power, high-energy situation, or critical situation, and even if you don’t want to be in it doesn’t mean you won’t be in it.” Moore said USA has never had a simulation of this size with as many standardized patients, faculty and staff and students.

Starbucks on USA campus to remain open May 29

Starbucks nationwide, is scheduled to close 8,000 stores for racial-bias training. Photo by BY: KRISHA AMIN | WEB EDITOR

The Starbucks located on the first floor of the Marx Library will remain open on May 29, despite nationwide shutdowns for racialbias training. Starbucks recently announced

they would be closing 8,000 company-owned stores on May 29 to conduct racial-bias training for over 175,000 employees. Starbucks’ announcement followed last weeks headlines about two African-American men who were arrested while waiting for

a business meeting to begin in a Philadelphia Starbucks. They were arrested for trespassing. Most Starbucks in North America are company-operated, although Starbucks Corporation will engage in licensing agreements with certain institutions, such as airports, grocery chains, small colleges, and large universities, according to The Balance. Most times these institutions will allow Starbucks the right to use a their particular locations as part of a deal to promote Starbucks’ business, The Balance stated. The Starbucks on USA’s campus is not a company-owned store, but rather a licensed store, operated by Aramark and Aramark employees. It will remain open on May 29, according to Michael Brown, Aramark’s district marketing manager. “Aramark will not comment on

the business practices of other companies,” Brown said. “However, we have a very clear position on diversity and inclusion. We respect the diverse backgrounds, styles, values and beliefs of our customers and employees. The management and employees at the Starbucks locations that we operate fully adhere to the diversity and inclusion principles specified by Aramark and those specified by our University partners. Earlier this year, as part of our ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion, we initiated cultural competency training with our field teams. We have additional training sessions planned to begin in August and continue through the fall semester. The Starbucks at the University of South Alabama will be open on May 29 to serve the needs of the campus community.”

NEWS

USA bookstore vendor change

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some electronics are 25 percent off. Fleur New Apple products are not dis2 Bedroom Flat 2 Bath counted. 1,014 Sq.Ft. “There's no extended closure Rent: $ Rent: $ anticipated,” Lowry said. USA is in the process of nego251-343-6800 • MirabelleMobile.com tiating an agreement for manage- Cherie 3 Bedroom Flat • SURFACE PARKING Residence Amenities Floor plans are artist’s rendering. Square feet and configuration may vary between individual apartments. Prices and availability are subject 2 Bath ment of the USA Bookstore with • PLAYGROUND • Air Conditioning and information. 1,367 Sq.Ft.to change without notice. Please contact sales associate for additional details • PET FRIENDLY • Heating an external provider, according to • SWIMMING POOL & WADING POOL • SPORTS COURT • Patios/Balconies Lowry. • Washer/Dryer Hook-ups • DOG PARK Lowry declined to name any • Carpeting & • NEARBY TRANSPORTATION •I-10 Vinyl Flooring • HIGHWAYS: I-65 & potential external candidates inter• Full Size Kitchen ested in taking over management of • New White Shaker Cabinets the book store. Pet: $ Application Fee: $ Deposit: $ AMENITIES Rent: $ • Quartz Countertop RESIDENCE “When the negotiations are comThroughout • AIR CONDITIONING CHERIE • Range plete and a contract is finalized, an • HEATING • Refrigerator • PATIOS/BALCONIES announcement will be made to stu• Microwave • WASHER/DRYER HOOK-UPS • Dishwasher dents and employees,” Lowry said. Amour • CARPETING • Garbage Disposal 3 Bedroom Townhouse • VINYL FLOORING USA switched their partnership 2.5 Bath • FULL SIZE KITCHEN 1,415 • Sq.Ft. NEW WHITE SHAKER CABINETS from Nike to Adidas last fall ac• QUARTZ COUNTERTOP THROUGHOUT cording to USAJaguars.com and • RANGE • REFRIGERATOR the current change in vendors is • MICROWAVE anticipated to bring new merchan• DISHWASHER N • GARBAGE DISPOSAL dise, according to Lowry. FIRST FLOOR SECOND FLOOR Pet: $ Application Fee: $ Deposit: $ The University of South Alabama Rent: $ AMOUR did not state whether or not this would have an effect on student MIRABELLE LEASING CENTER • 6427 Airport Blvd • Mobile, AL 36608 251-343-6800 • MirabelleMobile.com employment or the any university Floor plans are artist’s rendering. Square feet and configuration may vary between individual apartments. Prices and availability are subject benefits they may receive. to change without notice. Please contact sales associate for additional details and information. FIREPLACE

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“When the negotiations are complete and a contract is finalized, an announcement will be made to students and employees,” -Bob Lowry

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The University of South Alabama Campus Bookstore launched a sale this week in preparation to switch over to a new vendor, according to Director of Communications and Media Relations Bob Lowry.

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NEWS 5

Pride Fest takes over Cooper Riverside Park BY: KENYAN CARTER | REPORTER

The 2018 Pride Fest, a community focused festival that celebrates the LBGTQ and allies community in the Mobile and Baldwin counties, took place in Mobile this past Saturday at the Cooper Riverside Park. Hundreds of people gathered on a bright sunny day for live music, magic shows, diverse vendors and multiple drag show performances. Geoffery “Chance” Shaw is President of MobPride, the organization that puts on the festival. Shaw explained that 2018’s Pride Fest was about unity with the tag line, Stronger Together. “We’ve got groups here today from all different walks of life,” Shaw said. “We’ve got a booth from the NAACP doing voter registration. We’ve got a booth from the Mobile Atheist Community. We’ve got several churches around as well like Open Table UCC and Cornerstone MCC.” Pride Fest also hosted representatives from various political camps. “We’ve got Heather Milam who is running for Secretary of State,” Shaw said. “We’ve got a booth from the Mobile County Democratic Party. We also have a booth from

the Libertarian Party of Mobile.” Shaw said all these different groups share a similar goal towards progress and inclusion. “You’ve got people from all walks

USA’s LGBTQ and allies student organization, also had a booth at the festival. Jonathan Scott, a senior and Biology major in USA Spectrum, said

organizations that try to reach out to us such as AIDS Alabama and Planned Parenthood, really great organizations. So, it’s a chance also to network with those groups.” Shaw believes it’s vital for students to get involved with commu-

“You’ve got people from all walks of live here. With different backgrounds and political creeds just celebrating who they are. Being able to be open and out about it.” -Geoffery Shaw USA’s student organization Spectrum had a booth at Pride Fest over the weekend. Photo by Kenyan Carter

of life here,” Shaw said. “With different backgrounds and political creeds just celebrating who they are. Being able to be open and out about it.” University of South Alabama students representing Spectrum,

the group was here to reach out to the community. “It’s to come out to the community to connect with other people from other areas, we have people from outside the Mobile area here,” Scott said. “We also have different

nity groups and events. “It gets you plugged into the larger community and make connections in it,” Shaw said. “I started to get involved with groups like this when I was in college and it eventually lead me to where I am today.” For more information on MobPride or Pride Fest visit MobPride. org.

Changes to Pell Grant, continued out $2.6 billion in reserve funds from the program on top of the $1.3 billion cut sustained in the “Summer aid and the Pell Grant fiscal 2017 budget agreement,” increase is eligible to all students, depending on their Student Federal Danielle Douglas-Gabriel stated in his article. Aid Status. In order to be eligible While this could be bad news in for the third disbursement, students must be eligible for Pell Grant the future, as the Pell Grant reserve funds are constantly depleting, acas determined by the Department of Education and must be enrolled cording to The Washington Post, it at least half time (six hours) for the is fortunate for today’s college student all USA students are eligible Summer semester.” Money taken to increase the Pell for an increase in their annual Pell Grant. Grant was primarily taken from According to the USA Office Pell Grant reserves fund, according of Financial Aid, the full summer to The Washington Post. grant will be $2,960. To receive “Still, the Senate bill would pull Continued from page 1

any portion of the Summer Pell amount, you have to be enrolled in at least six credit hours and already be eligible for financial aid. If you only take six credit hours, your maximum Summer Pell Grant amount will be $1,480. It is also important to note that a student may only receive federal aid for 12 semesters, and using summer aid depletes that number. The requirements for a federal Pell Grant are as follows, according to the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrator: You must be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a regular student

in a degree or certificate program, maintain satisfactory academic progress toward a degree or certificate, have a high school diploma or recognized equivalent such as a GED certificate, be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen (i.e. U.S. national) and must have a valid Social Security number. Students can apply for summer aid at fawebsrv.usouthal.edu/ SummerApplication or view their financial aid status on PAWS. All questions about the Pell Grant increase should be sent to USA’s Office of Financial Aid finaid@ southalabama.edu.

NEWS

What to do after sexual assault

There are many ways to get help after sexual assault. Photo by Richard Narramore

6,480 people were victims of rape in the United States. Lifelines Mobile Counseling A rape occurs every two minutes Services offers aid to survivors of in the United States, according to sexual violence after their assault, the Rape Abuse and Incest National even if they have never before reNetwork. This means that over the quested legal or medical attention. course of a week, approximately “Well to start, the window to use BY: TRICIA WEST | ELECTRONIC FILE MANAGER

04/12/2018 Duty Upon Striking an Unoccupied Vehicle USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital A female’s vehicle was struck at the University of South Alabama Children’s and Women’s Hospital parking lot. 04/12/2018 Possession of marijuana/paraphernalia Delta 5 A student was given a UDC for having Marijuana and Paraphernalia. 04/13/2018 Unlawful Breaking and Entering

a rape kit at a hospital after sexual assault has recently been extended to five days,” Lifelines Mobile employee Chelsea Freitas said. “This means from the time the assault happens, you have five days to go to the hospital for them to verify that you have been raped and gather all the necessary evidence that you could to help you in a court trial. So the first thing you want to do after an assault is go to Children’s and Women’s Hospital and get them to run those tests.” Freitas mentioned that often victims of sexual assault, may be confused about what to do or be afraid to move forward with the police. “It’s important to do the rape kit, even if you decide later not to get law enforcement involved,” Freitas said. “The hospital will also give you emergency birth control and antibiotics for the most common STDs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. It’s important to start gathering all that evidence because you may change your mind about getting law enforcement involved. After getting this first vital step done, the assault victim can then decide if they want this to go to a judge and with police help they can

USA Crime Report

A Vehicle SGA Pavilion Unknown person(s) forced entry into the victim’s vehicle by breaking a window and removing listed article(s) from the victim’s vehicle without consent from the owner.

04/13/2018 Domestic Violence by Strangulation or Suffocation Dorm Room Known subject intentionally caused asphyxia to the victim by external pressure on the neck of same; the subject and victim were in a dating relationship at the time of the incident. 04/13/2018

Domestic Violence Third Degree (Harassment) 251 Delta Loop Known male subject, with intent

identify their assaulter if they are unsure.” Frietas also gave advice to those, who plan on going out downtown or to clubs who may be putting themselves in high risk environments. “It is never the victim’s fault if they are raped, but with this said, lower the chances of assault in a high risk situation,” Freitas said. “It’s always important to go out in a group and make sure you communicate to your group that you are going to look out for one another. That means staying together and watching each others drinks. It is also important to pay attention to the body language of those in your group. If they look harassed or uncomfortable by someone you could try to get them out of the situation.” The Mobile area offers many resources for those who may have experienced a recent sexual assault such as Lifelines Counseling Service, Mobile Planned Parenthood, Rape Crisis center of Mobile and USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital. USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital can be reached at 251415-1000.

to harass, annoy or cause alarm, grabbed the victim during a verbal dispute; the two were in a prior dating relationship.

SPORTS

Jaguar Marching Band 2018 season preview

The University of South Alabama Jaguar Marching Band takes the field during the 2017 season. Photo courtesy of the Jaguar Marching Band AMBER-LYNN BOOTHE | COPY EDITOR

The University of South Alabama’s Jaguar Marching Band will celebrate its 10th season during the 2018-2019 academic year. Dr. William Petersen, associate director of bands and director of athletic bands, has been with the JMB for the past six seasons. During his time with the JMB, he has seen the band grow from every angle. “The first year the band started, in 2009, there were no traditions, and no members,” Peterson said. “Everything started from scratch. My predecessor was expecting about 110-120 members, but started with nearly 140.” Since 2009, the band has grown with members joining from all over the country, according to Petersen. “The JMB has been consistently growing [from] over 200 members in 2012 to the 250-member band we have today,” Petersen said. The growing size of the JMB parallels with the growing support from the university, fans and coaches, according to Petersen. Coach Campbell showed his support and connection with the JMB through his words at the spring game on April 14.

“As a band, we are excited for the arrival of Coach Steve Campbell, and he has already made a great impression on the JMB at the Spring Game when he came over and spoke to the members,” Petersen said. “We have wonderful support from Dr. Waldrop and the entire university administration. Without their support, the excellence of the JMB would not happen.” Another tradition of the band took place during the spring game: the passing of the mace to the new drum major. For its 10th season, the JMB is doing things a little differently by adding a second drum major to the podium. Carson Watson, former drum major of three years, passed her mace along to the two new drum majors for the 2018-2019 season, Alex Linton and Jonah Hadaway. “I believe the addition of a second drum major will add a new dynamic to the JMB that we haven’t seen before,” Watson said. “It will allow the pressures of the position to rest on two people instead of just one. As a result, I believe this will segue into more effective leadership over a 250 plus member marching

band.” Linton and Hadaway both expressed their excitement for the JMB’s 10th season. “It’s really hard to believe the JMB has only been around for nine years,” Linton said. “It has come such a long way in those nine years and continues to grow. I am so honored to have been able to experience this growth in the first ten years and cannot wait to see what is to come for this organization in the future.” “I am honored to be chosen as an assistant drum major, and it is a privilege to serve such a remarkable group of people,” Hadaway said. “As the 10th season approaches, I can’t think of anything else besides the legacy the JMB leaves each and every year.” The JMB’s 10th season has some exciting upcoming performances and plans to use this season to better connect with the fans at football games, according to Petersen. “A point of emphasis for us this summer is working on ways to add excitement in the stands,” Petersen said. “With having games in Ladd-Peebles Stadium, sometimes the actual process of leaving

campus as a fan to go downtown can make it hard to get into the game right away. We want to work to engage all fans from the first moment they step on the grounds at Ladd and in the stadium.” The JMB uses popular music and songs to connect with the audience. Last year, the band performed a Queen show which featured “Seven Seas of Rye,” “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” “Fat Bottom Girls,” and “Bohemian Rhapsody.” The JMB plans to rock this season with a variety of “dance music, some jazz, some classical, some top 40, some classic rock – a bit of everything,” Petersen said. This year, the JMB plans to host an alumni band for past JMB members. “I am very excited about our first ever JMB Alumni Band,” Petersen said. “With the 10th anniversary of football and marching band, we think it’s the right time to start the Alumni Band and have them join us on the field for homecoming. There have been thousands of USA students who have marched in the JMB these past nine seasons and we want to welcome them back, honor them for their contributions, and make that connection with the current band and develop a strong bond with campus.” Watson is excited to view the band from the stands this year instead of on the podium, as well as take part in the Alumni Band. “I’m most excited to be able to watch the new pre-game runout,” Watson said. “I’m also excited to see that this year the JMB will host its very first Alumni Band, which I can’t wait to be a part of.” Saturday, Sept. 1 will kick-off Jaguar football’s 10th season against Louisiana Tech. For more information about the JMB and its legacy, please visit the JMB website at southalabama. edu/colleges/music/marchingband.

SPORTS

Volleyball wins big in spring tournament

The University of South Alabama volleyball team’s Sarah Richardson jumps to make a play against Texas State University. Photo courtesy of USAJaguars.com BY: HANNAH BLACKBURN | REPORTER

The University of South Alabama volleyball team participated in a spring tournament on April 7 in preparation for the 2018-19 season after finishing the regular 2017-18 season 17-10 and 12-4 SBC. In the tournament, the Jags faced off against Louisiana State University, University of Alabama, Florida State University and Samford University. The Jags also played NCAA tournament participants the University of Mississippi. There is no official score record posted. However, the Jags beat Alabama, split the matchup with Samford and fell to FSU and LSU. Head coach Amy Hendrichovsky said the spring tournament was an opportunity to keep the team strong and ready for the tough

upcoming season. “I thought the spring season went really well,” Hendrichovsky said. “I think this is one of the more challenging schedules I made for the team and I think that’s because last year we excelled through tough teams we played last fall and it helped us get better. Our focus was building our strength and being more physical as a team. We also worked on our mental toughness and control, so overall I think we did well in the fall. We also have a lot of returners coming back in the fall.” Among those returning includes sophomore middle blocker Kelley Hartman, who received honors from the All American Volleyball Coaches Association and first team All-SBC honors in the 2017 season, and junior outside hitter Kristina Alabastro, who received second

team All-SBC honors. The upcoming season will also include three freshman in whom Hendrichovsky has placed a lot of confidence. “We have three freshman coming in, and I believe they will all be big contributors for us over the next four years,” Hendrichovsky said. “How much they contribute next year will determine on how hard our upperclassmen work them. I feel all three of them will have the opportunity to grow and learn in their role and not have the pressure to compete right away. If they come in here with the mindset to compete, they have every opportunity just like everyone else on our team.” Returning for her fifth year, setter Parker Harrell is happy about how they played in the spring tournament and is looking forward to the progression they are going to make

in the upcoming season. “We had a really great spring and ended on a good note,” Harrell said. “We just got back from Ole Miss and competed at a really high level. This spring definitely challenged us. We play a lot of top-level teams. LSU [and] FSU are both ranked in the top 50 RPI, so having them come to our gym and for us to compete with them was a really good experience for us. We have a lot of leaders on the team and I truly think we have enough talent to go far in conference. We’ve been working on getting better each day, and we’re focusing on the process instead of the result. I think that will be beneficial for us going into the fall.” To find out more about the Jaguar volleyball team or other Jaguar athletics, visit USAJaguars.com.

SPORTS

The legacy of Jackie Robinson today

Redshirt freshman outfielder Michael Sandle is batted for the Jags against Georgia Southern. Photo courtesy of USAJaguars.com BY: CHARLES HARRISON | SPORTS EDITOR

The Brooklyn Dodgers took the field on a bright sunny day to play against the Boston Braves, on April 14, 1947. The twenty-five thousand people in bbets Field watched Jackie Robinson taking the field. When Robinson ran on to the baseball field, he did something many at the time thought couldn’t be done: he desegregated America’s Game at a time when, in much of the country, African-Americans couldn’t even go to the same restaurant, use the same bathrooms or attend the same schools as Caucasians. He followed that appearance with a nine-year career in professional baseball, playing 1,382 games, hitting 137 home runs and posting a career average of .311. But Robinson refused to stop there, during the 1947 season Robinson posted a .297 batting average 12 home runs and 29 stolen bases to become the National League Rookie of the Year. Two years after he became the first African-American to play for

a Major League Baseball, team Robinson was named the National League Player of the Year, earned a World Series Ring in 1955, and in 1962 he became the first AfricanAmerican player introduced into the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame. After Robinson’s death in 1972 the Dodgers retired his jersey and in 1997, 50 years after breaking the color barrier, Robinson received one of the highest honors in all of baseball when the MLB officially retired his No. 42 jersey from the entire league. In 2004, the MLB decided to pay further homage to Robinson by making April 15 Jackie Robinson day on which every player in the MLB puts on the No. 42 jersey and plays the game. University of South Alabama baseball’s redshirt freshman Michael Sandle, discussed Robinson’s legacy to modern day AfricanAmerican players “It’s awesome doing something that powerful, and obviously huge for the game of baseball,” Sandle said when asked about Robinson’s

impact.” Today in the world of sports, baseball is in decline, especially among African-Americans, according to a Gallup poll. Viewership is down along with attendance at games in the past decade, according to a report by the Sports Business Journal. Baseball has been plagued by a decline in little league involvement according to reports in the New York Post. There has also been a marked decline in African-American involvement according tolastwordonsports.com In today’s MLB, only 8.1 percent of players are African-American as opposed to 18.7 percent in 1981, with higher numbers of AfricanAmericans flocking to basketball or football, according to a recent article in Forbes Magazine. Sandle, was also a standout football player at Navarre High School, setting NHS’s record for interceptions in a season and career interceptions. However, when it came time to choose what sport to play in college the decision to play baseball was

about doing what he liked, according to Sandle. “I grew to like baseball more,” Sandle said. “I never really saw it as a color thing. I just liked baseball a lot more.” For baseball going forward, the question of how to deal with the racial bias doesn’t have an answer, and the critiques just keep coming. “Baseball is a white man’s sport,” Baltimore Orioles outfielder Adam Jones said during the 2017 season about why the protest were taking place in the National Football League and National Basketball Association, but not the MLB. So how does baseball become less of a “white man’s game.” According to Sandle, the answer isn’t about race it’s just about encouragement. “I wouldn’t make it about race,” Sandle said. “If you want to play baseball, play baseball. Do what makes you happy.”

LIFE

Student spotlight: Deborah Fetherland

(Left photo) Bobbie Jo Wells-Browning (left) and Deborah Fetherland (right) hitchhiked across America. Photo courtesy of Deborah Fetherland. (Right photo) Deborah Fetherland works in the College of Medicine’s admission department. Photo by Shannon Lundgren

BY: SHANNON LUNDGREN | EDITOR IN CHIEF

Deborah Fetherland’s path to attending the University of South Alabama began at the University of Kentucky in the 1980s, when she decided to leave UK for a hitchhiking journey across the country with her partner, much to her parents horror. Fetherland’s partner will be called Chad, to protect his identity. Chad initially did not want Fetherland to hitchhike with him. Fetherland, who had never slept outside before, resolved to join him. “The one thing you don’t tell me is ‘no,’” Fetherland said about her decision to join Chad. The hitchhiking trip spanned from Kentucky to California and lasted from May to August 1982. Fetherland does not recommend others hitchhike. “I wouldn’t do it, and probably if my children tried to do it, I’d kick their ass,” Fetherland said. Fetherland and Chad ended the

trip by settling to stay in Mobile with his friends. They had two sons, but their relationship became abusive as Chad descended into alcoholism, according to Fetherland. “He was not always horrible,” Fetherland said. “The alcohol did him in. I think the more he was controlled by it, the more he wanted to control me.” Fetherland knew it was time to end the relationship after she survived a car accident while Chad was driving. “I ended up using a wheelchair and walker for six weeks and it was then that I decided that I didn’t like him enough to let him kill me,” Fetherland said. “He refused to take responsibility and he refused to admit he had a problem with alcohol. I did everything I could to drive him off.” Several weeks after the accident, the couple split up permanently. “When he left, he said, ‘you’ll never survive without me, bitch,’” Fetherland said. “The first thing in my head, I went ‘oh yeah? Just

watch me.’” Restarting her life as a single mother wasn’t easy, but Fetherland

“He was not always horrible. The alcohol did him in. I think the more he was controlled by it, the more he wanted to control me.” -Deborah Fetherland says it was worth it to no longer be in an abusive situation. “I’ve made mistakes and I’ve struggled, but at the end of the day, I go home and I can be in my home and I don’t have to worry about

what’s coming through that door,” Fetherland said. “What kind of day they had and what they’re going to do to me. No one should have to put up with that. There are people out there who can help you. You just have to say ‘something’s wrong, I need help and people will help you.’” Fetherland encourages people in abusive situations to remove themselves from that situation and ask for help. “Get out,” Fetherland said. “You don’t have to stay. It is scary and people who know me, they say they can’t imagine that I would have put up with it [being abused], but you’re in a situation where this person [the abuser] is your mirror. They become the only way you see yourself, is what they tell you, you start to believe. That’s not true. It’s not easy. It’s really hard, but it’s not as hard as putting up with that day after day.” After leaving Chad, Fetherland knew she had to find a job capable of supporting two children with. She found employment with a company that made marketing and promotional products who took a chance on her, Fetherland says. She eventually left to create her own company, Plan B Marketing, selling marketing and promotional products to customers nationwide. While maintaining her business, Fetherland was hired by the USA College of Medicine’s admissions department. Fetherland was able to return to school, thanks tuition assistance, a benefit of being a USA employee. She is currently scheduled to graduate in December 2019. Although Fetherland has survived, her ex-husband did not. Chad’s alcohol abuse issues became worse after they split, according to Fetherland. He ultimately died of cancer in 2010. For help leaving an abusive situation, visit thehotline.org.

LIFE

11 Student Spotlight: Steven Faralli BY: MARISSA MASON | MANAGING EDITOR

University of South Alabama student Steven Faralli, history and education double major, found a creative way to explore the past: fencing. “I remember seeing some people [sport] fencing at an event when I was in kindergarten and wanted to learn sword fighting ever since,” Faralli said. “I eventually found a sport fencing club here in Mobile and did that for a while before discovering the historical tradition.” Faralli is a historical fencer and instructor who is in the process of creating a fencing club on campus. Historical fencing is based off of historical martial arts, sword fight-

ing and traditional fencing whereas sport fencing is more of a game, according to fioredeiliberi.org. “These are the real martial arts used by our European ancestors, being a history major that got my attention,” Faralli said. “I prefer the more realistic and dynamic approach to fencing it [historical fencing] offers over the much more linear and rigid [sport] style, though they’re both a ton of fun and I’d recommend both to anyone.” Faralli currently teaches historical fencing and practices at the Student Recreation Center. “I’ve met and connected with many students whose interests it’s peaked and have been curious about the guy swinging swords

Faralli prefers historical fencing over sport fencing. Photo courtesy of Steven Faralli

around in the Student Recreation Center,” Faralli said.

“I prefer the more martial, realistic and dynamic approach to fencing. It offers over the much more linear and rigid [sport] style, though they’re both a ton of fun and I’d recommend both to anyone.” - Steven Faralli

Socrates, Japanese swordsman and philosopher Miyamoto Musashi, historical fencing instructor Axel Pettersson and author Christopher Hitchens as some of his inspirations. “Fencing for sure has inspired me along with making me a stronger person, physically and mentally,” Faralli said. “[I’d like to be] teaching history at either a good high school or college somewhere, married with a couple of children, living near a beach and still fencing,” Faralli said. For more information about fencing or starting a fencing club, contact Steven Faralli at slf1221@ jagmail.southalabama.edu.

Faralli listed Greek philosopher

Faralli hopes to start a fencing club. Photo courtesy of Steven Faralli

12 LIFE Graduating seniors nest in Mobile

Becky Phan flashes a J-sign at the Moulton Tower. Photo courtesy of James Palomo BY: NATASHA SPRADLIN | REPORTER

Around 1400 students will graduate from the University of South Alabama on May 5, according to USA’s Registrar office. This new chapter will lead many students away from Mobile. However, there are others who want to make a life for themselves here. What makes Mobile so appealing to recent graduates? Mobile natives Samantha Borden, Laura Simison and Brie Strickland all share a love for the port city. Borden said close proximity to family and friends is part of Mobile’s appeal but the port city’s diversity and growing job market accounts for the rest. Mobile welcomes individuals from all walks of life, according to Borden. She enjoys the cultural variety the city offers, the beautiful nature and the small-city vibe. Events like 1065, Mardi Gras and Christmas Tree lightings bring the community together, Borden said. Borden is graduating with a degree in business management and wants a career that provides her with an opportunity to give back to Mobile. “In ten years I would love to own a non-profit business to benefit our homeless population in Mobile,”

Borden said. Simison said Mobile is the ideal city to live in because residents can travel to various cities quickly. Her favorites are New Orleans, Fairhope and Biloxi. “Mobile is the kind of city that is small enough to see people you know around town but big enough that there are always people to get to know,” Simison said. Simison is a foreign language major with a concentration in French and international relations. She said she plans to work in law enforcement upon graduation. Strickland recently began a job she loves in human resources and will continue to work there after graduation. “There are so many different sides to Mobile,” Strickland said. “There’s suburban west Mobile, rural Midtown, historic downtown and in certain places it almost feels like you’re in a different country.” In the future, Strickland hopes to use her degree in human resource management while working for a company she can be proud of. She wants to start a family and be active in her social, spiritual and professional communities. There’s a lot of fun to be had in Mobile if you know where to look, according to these seniors.

Graduating senior Natasha Spradlin high-fives Southpaw. Photo courtesy of Natasha Spradlin

“I think too many people get it in their head that there’s nothing to do here in this little Alabama city, but it’s constantly growing and changing,” Strickland said.

Borden, Simison and Strickland recommend connecting with the community by learning about Mobile’s history, joining organizations and exploring the city.

OPINION

Editor in chief bids farewell, continued Continued from page 1

was a concept that had been floating around for some time, but I’m the one who decided that this is the year. The face of journalism is undergoing what some people call a “disruption” and has been since the internet revolution. Across the nation, one by one, newspapers that printed daily downgraded to weekly as more and more people turned to the internet to get their news as it broke. In the early 2000s, a newspaper delivered at 7 a.m. was already dated by the time it hit the consumer’s doorstep, scooped by a magic box in the office called a computer. With the iPhone revolution, news aficionados no longer needed to even make the arduous trek from the bedroom to the office to get their news; they could lay flat on their backs and have the collected entirety of mankind’s information at their fingertips before their feet

even hit the floor for the day. But, The Vanguard trudged on, continuing to focus on printing a newspaper once a week. Believe it or not, articles aren’t diligently written by reporters, edited by editors, only to magically appear in a newspaper every Monday. Laying out a newspaper requires a significant investment of time, effort and energy from The Vanguard’s most experienced staff. As I have come to find out this school year, time is a finite commodity. To better serve our consumers, people who were accustomed to having the freshest news before they even rubbed the sleep out of their eyes, my staff and I began preparations to take The Vanguard fully online. We can’t snap our fingers and go fully online right now. There are still financial considerations, contracts to honor and advertisers to cajole into a new business model. However, we can start going there.

To that end, this coming school year, The Vanguard will go down to printing once a month. Whether The Vanguard continues with that model or continues down the path of being fully online is a decision for Editor in Chiefs who come behind me, but I made the decision to start us down our road of increased digital content. This will free up The Vanguard’s most experienced members to focus on creating a product our target audience - you - has repeatedly told us that you want. Focus groups, random people, even academic studies all tell us that today’s news consumer wants their news and they want their news now. This edition of The Vanguard marks the final weekly edition of The Vanguard. After this, The Vanguard will print on a monthly basis, while focusing the bulk of their journalistic efforts on providing news content online. In spite of knowing down to the

depths of my soul that moving further online will allow The Vanguard’s staff to bring you the news you want when you want it, I still can’t help feeling like the one who took Old Yeller out to the barn and shot him. This is the end of an era. The Vanguard has been printing since 1963. Change may come slow, but it does come. It is not enough to spend the student activities fee to print a product the student have repeatedly told us they no longer desire simply in the name of tradition. The face of journalism is changing and The Vanguard must change with it to stay relevant. I would like to thank my staff for supporting this decision. I know it wasn’t an easy decision. I hope you will bear with me as I take the time to thank them individually. Marissa Mason, thank you for your loyalty, to both me and The Vanguard. You have, and will conContinued on page 14

OPINION

Editor in chief bids farewell, continued

(Left to right) Shannon Lundgren, Editor in Chief, Marissa Mason, Managing Editor, Richard Narramore, Assistant Managing Editor and Charles Harrison, Sports Editor. Photo by Briana Cunningham

Continued from page 13

into this newspaper. We are fortunate to have you. Charles Harrison, I admire your ambition and your charisma. Even when things are going poorly for you, you still can bring a smile to a room. I wish you the best of luck with your unending quest to innovate. Krisha Amin, at the beginning of this year, I admired your effortless talent for writing. By the end of this year, I now have a new perspective for the amount of time, effort and energy you have put into honing your craft. There is an important but undefinable difference between a writer who has written enough to develop their voice and one who hasn’t. You have. Amber-Lynn Boothe, you mastered the very difficult task of giving feedback on articles and remaining kind while doing so. Thank you for your unending tact, diplomacy and wealth of grammatical insight. Patricia West, you have an impeccable news sense and unparalleled work ethic. I admire your initiative and willingness to help anyone with anything. You will go

far in whatever you do. Rachel Goodman, your articles bring a much-needed lighter touch to The Vanguard. I appreciate your willingness to experiment with the Opinion section and try new things. Your articles have always been a joy to read and edit. Rachel Sullivan, I told you that you are brave at the end of last semester and you proved it again this semester. I appreciate your drive to tackle any issue, no matter how controversial. Hannah Blackburn, you consistently pump out quality articles. I wish you the best of luck starting a career in journalism. Natasha Spradlin, I admire your ability to remain optimistic and believe the best about everyone. I also appreciate your ability to defend your point of view while remaining respectful. Kenyan Carter, you took on several difficult subjects this semester and treated them with respect and compassion. That allowed The Vanguard to address difficult topics in a sensitive manner and I appreciate that. Elaine Russ, you are an excellent reporter. Your news sense is spot-

on. You write excellent articles and quickly make your edits. You could easily consider a career in journalism if you were so inclined. Clay Lolley, you added that magic ingredient a newspaper needs to have it’s own soul - a cartoon. Your art is adorable and your sense of humor strikes just the right tone for USA. Last but certainly not least, Richard Narramore. This time last year, I think we both would have laughed hysterically if anyone told us that you would be the next Editor in Chief. Over the last year and a half I have known you, I have watched you become a man who will excel at leading this motley band of reporters. This will be the hardest thing you have ever done in your life to date. It will challenge you in ways I cannot entirely predict and you will never expect. You will rise to the challenge because you have courage, tenacity and the desire to improve. I am extremely proud of you. I am proud to have known every individual on staff. Of course, my staff and I couldn’t bring you a newspaper without

massive amounts of support from outside. Dr. James Aucoin, Heather Leigh Stanely and John Sellers, thank you all for your efforts on behalf of the paper as advisors. Every one of you has taught me at least one valuable lesson, even if that is not readily apparent. Bob Lowry, thank you for your unwavering support of The Vanguard. There’s a British saying that goes, “And Bob’s your uncle,” which implies a task just became much easier. The Vanguard is extremely fortunate to have our very own uncle in the form of you. Your support has made our task of providing quality news infinitely easier. Dr. Mir Zohair Husain, the articles you wrote for The Vanguard were informative, insightful and educational. Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge with USA’s student body. Lucretia Martinez, you have been The Vanguard’s guardian angel. You go above and beyond the call of duty in making sure that The Vanguard prints on time and prints well. I will miss our midnight chats about the paper. To my husband, Jon “Fruit Santa” Lundgren, the editorial staff will never be able to thank you for the countless fruit trays you brought us on Sundays while we laid the paper out. I will never be able to thank you enough for your endless support, advice and encouragement in this endeavour and in my life in general. Finally, thank you, gentle reader. Without you, a news service is pointless. But beyond that, thank you for demanding more and quicker coverage. I look forward to seeing all the ways Richard Narramore will strive to meet the bar you have set so high next year. With that, I bid you farewell.

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OPINION15

Accommodation review: Mobile County Metro Jail call a bondsperson to bail me out. The workers at the police station took my fingerprints, asked me some medical questions about my health and sent me back to my cell. I was looking forward to some sleep, thinking anything was Kenyan Carter took advantage of Mobile County Metro Jail’s complebetter than the mentary photo booth. Photo courtesy of Mobile County Sheriff ’s Office bright lights and depressive air of BY: KENYAN CARTER | REPORTER the waiting room. I was wrong. They cuffed me and took me to a Many students spent the weekend studying, partying or working. small room with a shower head. The police officer told me to take I spent it in Mobile County Metro off my clothes I complied and then Jail. the officer asked me to squat and When I arrived at the front desk cough. This is a standard procedure of the jail. That made me stress prisoners have to do to prevent forbecause as an out of town college eign objects from entering the jail. student, my friends and family It was humiliating all the same. didn’t have phone numbers with The officer took my clothes, a 251 area code. I was allowed to handed me my scrubs and told copy two numbers on a piece of paper before having my cell phone, me to shower before leaving me alone. To use the shower, I had to and everything else I had on my hold down a button the entire time person confiscated. and the water got way too hot too I was then put inside a waiting fast. This lead to an awkward, one room that could only be described handed shower with an intermitas a sauna without the steam. In it tent water spray. there was one long, hard, wooden I remember looking into a mirbench occupied by men in trouble ror when I finally changed into for various reasons. A toilet located my dark blue scrubs, with Mobile in the corner afforded little to no County Correctional printed on the privacy. back. I remember laughing at the I became familiar with the waiting room over a span of at least five image of myself in the mirror just hours. Guys would come in, shuffle thinking, “Bro, what have you gotten yourout, come in, shuffle out, eventually self into this time?” it all just became a blur. The police officers gave me a I had to keep my mind busy bag of sheets, cuffed me again and because the stress of the situation walked me to my cell block. At this mixed with the intense boredom point, I didn’t realize this place was was crushing. a jail. I assumed since this was my I remember thinking of profesfirst offense and I was relatively sional wrestling to keep my mind young that I’d just spend the night occupied. WrestleMania was in at a police station. As I was walking New Orleans that weekend, so I down the long, winding hallways went over all the matches in my however, I began to understand head, who I think would win and that is not the case. why. Eventually, I was allowed to

When I arrived in my cell block, the officers briefly discussed who I should share a cell with. I still do not understand why or how they came to the decision they came to. Nonetheless, I woke my cellmate upon arriving. He was a 40-something year old man with a shaved head and tattoos that covered his body from the neck down, including a teardrop to top it all off. The teardrop tattoo is something I was only exposed to by crime media and pompous musicians, with the implication being that someone with that tattoo murdered someone. To see an actual one in person, in this context, gave me more perspective about the situation I was in. I came to learn that he was serving a 20-year sentence for armed robbery, drug use and domestic violence. “I put my girlfriend through a wall,” my cellmate said. For context in the story, I’ll call him Sticks because he was really skinny, probably because of the drugs After introductions, I climbed up onto the top bunk. The bed was made of an unforgiving hard sheet of metal. The jail, due to its overloaded prisoner capacity, was running low on supplies, so I didn’t have a mattress or a pillow, unlike Sticks. I had to use my blanket as a mattress, a thin bed sheet as cover and my hair for a pillow. I stayed awake for hours. Sleep was a far-off dream. The next day, I got to try out prison breakfast. The cell doors were open and I was free to roam the block.

Sticks woke me up and immediately started hustling me for my food. I knew that prisoners used food to barter inside the jail and I didn’t want to get involved in any of that. This is one of the reasons I was confused at my roommate assignment. This was my first time in jail and I was roomed with a professional prisoner who’s obviously going to try to manipulate me. The breakfast food itself was suspicious. I can’t think of any other word for it. They gave me two cold, soggy waffles with a merciful side of syrup, a lump of yellow grits and a side of chopped mystery white meat. It vaguely tasted like fish. I asked some of the other prisoners what they thought it was and they came to an agreement it was cat. I wished I hadn’t asked. After forcing down my breakfast, I was desperate for something to wash it all down with. Water was available fresh from a Gatorade cooler on the table. However, I was never given a cup to drink out of. I walked to the door of the cell block and knocked on it. A female officer answered. I explained to her I never received a cup and she told me I would have to wait. No one ever came back to give me a cup, so for the remainder of my stay, I quenched my thirst by drinking sink water. The lunch food wasn’t much better. The main course consisted of two bologna sandwiches with ranch dressing as a condiment. Since it was the weekend, we were

“I had to use my blanket as a mattress, a thin bed sheet as cover and my hair for a pillow. I stayed awake for hours.” - Kenyan Carter

Continued on page 17

16 OPINION

Mobile County Metro Jail, continued Continued from page 16

only fed twice a day, so I was hungry enough to choke it down at that point. After lunch we were locked back into our cells. Lunch was served at 5 p.m. and I knew my 24 hours ended at 5:30 p.m., so after lunch I was itching to get out. 15 minutes go by, then 30, then 45, then an hour and 30. I became stressed at this point. I knew someone was outside waiting to take me home, but my name was not called. I made a move to speak to a guard but Sticks strongly advised me against it. “See, you gotta be patient with these people man,” Sticks said. “If you ask ‘em, it’s just gonna take longer. Just chill, you’ll be out any second.” Normally I wouldn’t take advice from a guy serving a 20-year sentence, but I figured if he knows anything it’s how jail works. So, I wait, and wait, and wait. Through someone else’s phone call, I deduced that’s it’s now 8:00 p.m.

Uncomfortable thoughts started to creep into my head. What was taking so long? If something happened how would I even know? Holy crap, I have class tomorrow! Luckily I grabbed the attention of one the guards on cleaning duty “Hey, my name is Kenyan Carter,” I said. “I was supposed to be out at 5:30, I know my bail has been paid off. Can you see what the status of my release is? I have class tomorrow!” The guard gave me a puzzled look for a second and then nodded her head in understanding. About 15 minutes later they called my name to be released. No surprise that Stick’s advice was bad. I got out of jail at about 10 p.m., a good four hours and 30 minutes passed my required time. If I didn’t alert the guard I probably would’ve had to spend an extra night with Sticks. The moral of the story is do not go to jail. It’s easy to take for granted the endless freedoms we have like checking your phone, sleeping

You can book a stay at the Mobile County Metro Jail for yourself or a loved one by calling the Mobile County Police or Sheriff ’s Office. Photo by Kenyan Carter

with a pillow, and being able move freely. Jail also compromises your future. Having a criminal record is no joke. If you’re ever in an emo-

tional situation or confronted with something of questionable legality just ask yourself, is it worth everything?

Satire: Six steps to getting a girlfriend BY: BRIAN WINTERS | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Are you tired of being the third wheel when going out with friends? Are you sick of being the only one without a date? Well, no need to fret! This guide will tell you everything you need to know to end your days of singledom and get a girlfriend. Follow these six simple steps and your romantic problems will go away. First, the most important lesson is to text the girl nonstop. The best time is late at night, usually past midnight. This is the perfect time; she should not be busy and can respond. If the girl does not respond after about 20 texts, do not be afraid to call her. Girls love it when potential romantic interests do this. If she picks up the phone and sounds annoyed, that just means she is into you. If the text

bubbles go from blue to green, do not worry. This means the texts are getting to her faster. Second, learn her schedule. Is the girl you are interested in attending the class next to yours? Perfect! She gets out of class 30 minutes after you do? Even better! This gives you the opportunity to wait for her and surprise her. Offer to walk her to her dorm or next class. These simple gestures will show her how respected she is. When she rejects the offers, keep insisting. This is her playing hard to get, but she will eventually give in. Knowing where she lives or her next class gives you more chances to surprise her more often. Third, if you see the girl with another guy, make sure he knows she is taken. Get between them when they are walking. Make sure to dominate the conversation, never let the other person get a word in.

The other guy might use words like ‘creep’ and ‘pushy,’ but do not worry. The person is just jealous. This method is the best way to get the girl’s respect. Other girls will avoid anyone who does this, as they see how serious the relationship is. Fourth, always make sure to tell her she is not like other girls. Putting other girls down raises any girl’s self-esteem. Make sure to bring up any ex-girlfriends and how this girl is much better than the ex. The best time to do this is at random times. When walking around, bring up an ex’s flaws. The girl will definitely feel better about herself after hearing all the flaws. If the girl gets quiet after this, she is thinking how much better she is. Fifth, always tell self-deprecating jokes. The more brutal the joke, the better. Do not be afraid to bring up not being good at anything and being a disappointment. This will

make a girl feel sorry for anyone. The more this happens, the more she will try to help. The girl will start giving compliments, saying how none of that is true. This is the best way to know she is hooked. Sixth, if all else fails, play hard to get. Things are going good and she is interested and planning dates? Start ignoring her. Do not answer her phone calls and texts. Doing this for a long time will only keep her interested. Openly flirt with her best friend to show the girl what a catch you are. This is the ultimate power move. No one will be able to resist. Using all of these tips, getting a girlfriend should be no problem. Girls will start lining up at your. In no time at all, third-wheeling will not be an issue. Being single will be a distant memory.

FAREWELL17 MARISSA MASON | MANAGING EDITOR I am always surprised by how each semester brings such unique experience as well as new challenges. Some days, you get called into the office because mistakes were made and you have to own up to them and fix them. Other days, you learn you won an award at conference. Working at The Vanguard is what you make of it, so reach for that big article, go to events you never thought you’d be able to go to and make your experience a good one.

RICHARD NARRAMORE | ASST. MANAGING EDITOR

The past year has been whirlwind. I have learned much about responsibility, leadership and how much I identify as Miranda Priestly. Also, at the age of 21, I learned how to properly use the “delete” button on the keyboard. For that, I thank Shannon. It has saved me seconds of wasted life.

CHARLES HARRISON | SPORTS EDITOR

AMBER-LYNN BOOTHE | COPY EDITOR

I have enjoyed my time writing for the Vanguard. It was cool to see how much goes into the editing and publication of a paper. My favorite part of working for the Vanguard was establishing my “Dear Debbie” advice column.

KENYAN CARTER | REPORTER

What I learned working for The Vanguard is that Sports AP is really hard, and I have absolutely no knowledge of how punctuation works. My week as editor in chief taught me I’m extraordinarily lazy and really don’t want to do anything. The most important thing I learned is that when in doubt, always ask Shannon because she is omnipotent.

KRISHA AMIN | WEB EDITOR

My favorite part about working for the The Vanguard is that it is more than the sum of its parts. When you put it all together - the storytelling, editing, editing again, late night publishing, the controversies and praises - it truly touches a nerve. What I learned most this past year was to really enjoy this journey.

HANNAH BLACKBURN | REPORTER The experience working as a sports reporter has been very rewarding. Covering the less popular sports was also something rewarding as it allowed me to highlight the less popular sports, and give them the recognition they deserved. Between the coaches and players I interviewed for profiles, everyone I worked with was very kind and very passionate about their sport, and it made the writing experience that much more exciting for me.

ELAINE RUSS | REPORTER

NATASHA SPRADLIN | REPORTER The Vanguard is the community I longed for as a first generation and transfer student. It took me six years to graduate with my bachelors degree and for five of those years I was unable to get involved in university life. I was in a position this year that allowed me to get involved in ways I never could and I am grateful my position as a general reporter for The Vanguard made that list.

RACHEL SULLIVAN | REPORTER For me, coming to work for The Vanguard this year was my attempt to find my voice. I had spent the first two year of college without it, and I was lost. I knew I had a passion for writing as well as a love for people. Little did I know that I could combine the two in such a challenging and fruitful way. Thanks to Shannon, I found an outlet for the words in my head and a place to let it all out. I feel much more confident in my abilities and ambitions.

I learned how to write in a professional manner. I met so many amazing people and learned how to be a good conversationalist and how to be confident and poised. Writing has boosted my self-esteem and made me a better person.

RACHEL GOODMAN | OPINION EDITOR

This year at The Vanguard has been an opportunity to get involved with the university. Through The Vanguard, I have been exposed to many of the events on campus and have been enlightened by each article that we publish. Working with the writers and editors has been a privilege and I have enjoyed spreading everyone’s hard work!

This was my first time working for a news company, so I learned a lot. I was happy to see that the work environment was very creative and energetic. I’m proud of the stories I’ve done, and am really looking forward to covering more. I feel very lucky to have a platform to help inform my peers at the university.

BRIANA CUNNINGHAM | PHOTOGRAPHER As each semester goes by, I learn and experience something new every time. As this is my fourth completed semester working for the Vanguard, I managed to communicate with more faculty and new developed friends. Most importantly, I captured moments on our beautiful campus that strengthened my photography skills as a fellow Jaguar.

18OPINION Dear Debbie: My boss is a tyrant BY: NATASHA SPRADLIN | REPORTER

Dear Debbie: I work as a waitress at a restaurant and I used to love my job, but my new boss is becoming a tyrant. Over the past few months, my new manager places unrealistic expectations on my coworkers and belittles them in front of other employees. Recently, many employees have quit. After speaking with coworkers, I have come to the conclusion that management is causing the negative environment. I don’t want to leave but I’m afraid things will only get worse. What should I do? Sincerely, Should I stay or should I go? Dear Should I stay or should I go, It is always tough to transition between managers. New management often means new management styles which can lead to awkward readjustment periods if

strong routines and expectations can do to protect your own sanity are already in place. Unfortunately, is avoid taking their hostility pera management position does not sonally. Try spending some time always equate to great leadership getting to know your new manager skills, either. and their management style. What If your boss is is their moti“Communication is rude and sarcasvation behind tic, the best way to normally the best way to having this handle the situaposition? What clear up any confusion tion is to ignore are their bigthem while it is or address grievances in gest priorities occurring. People for the restauthe workplace. ” who act this way rant? How do towards others they prefer to -Debbie tend to feed off of communicate? reactions. After you’ve You can choose to confront them taken the time to observe your as well if you feel brave enough. manager you will have a better For some people this strategy is understanding of their triggers, effective. It can potentially set their expectations, and where there healthy boundaries that were not is potential for miscommunication there previously. By choosing to among employees. stand your ground you could set There’s a good chance your your own expectations. manager may not be aware his/her The most important thing you behavior is influencing the work-

place so negatively. Managers are people too and experience personal problems that can easily find their way into the workplace. At the same time, this is not an excuse to let poor behavior continue to occur. Communication is normally the best way to clear up any confusion or address grievances in the workplace. Make a game plan to approach him/her. If you reach out and nothing changes, chances are you should cut your losses and find another job. Managers sometimes treat employees like they’re replaceable. This is partly because it is relatively easy to find people to work in restaurants. However, just as there are an abundance of potential employees, there is a plethora of jobs in hospitality. People love to eat out and shop and their needs won’t disappear anytime soon.

Dear Debbie: I’m broke and alone BY: NATASHA SPRADLIN | REPORTER

Dear Debbie, I keep getting left out of group activities with my friends because I don’t have the money to go out. They said they don’t want to invite me because they’re afraid it will make me feel bad. Part of me appreciates this because I do feel bad when I can’t go...but I don’t want to continue to be left at home when all of my friends are having a good time either. What can I do? Sincerely, Broke and Alone Dear Broke and Alone, College life is hard. I’m sure some of your friends feel the same pressure as you do. As students, our paychecks (if we get one) somehow disappear as soon as they hit our bank accounts. You could always try to increase your income by getting a job, donating plasma, tutoring, babysitting

or something similar. However, this sounds like the perfect opportunity to get creative and tap into your inner miser; your pocket and your friends will thank you for it in the long run. You should start by creating a budget at the beginning of every month. Maybe you won’t be able to go out with your friends every time, but at least you will have the opportunity to choose when you do. Then ask yourself what skills you already possess. Are you crafty? Try selling your artwork for some extra cash. Can you write? Try freelance writing for The Vanguard. You can also sell belongings you no longer need. Clothes, furniture, technology, you name it. You can sell them on apps such as Letgo, on Facebook’s Marketplace, or even stores like Plato’s closet. Don’t forget to take advantage of free, local events in your neighborhood too. There are a number of

free events on campus throughout the school year that tailor to a wide variety of interests. USA’s Daily Digest is sent to your Jagmail every day and will tell you what events are going on. Additionally, social media platforms such as Facebook let you browse concerts, festivals, and other miscellaneous events around your area. Extra bonus: you can cut gas costs by carpooling, taking public transportation, or walking if the event is close enough. I would try to speak with your friends if you haven’t already. Let them know that it hurts more to be left out than to be asked and have to say no. Suggest some of the tips you’ve learned, and the events you’ve found. True friends care more about spending time with one another and will understand where you are coming from. If they don’t, perhaps you should consider making new friends.

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CLAY LOLLEY | CARTOONIST

It has definitely been nice to have an outlet for my creativity. Drawing comics helped make my weeks entertaining and give me a since of pride. It’s nice to know that I’ve left my mark on campus, even if it’s a small one.