BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL 2011
news Page 27 ... Three months after the tornado, seniors fi nally get their chance to say goodbye lifestyles
Page 40 ... Nickelodeon brings back the hit shows of the ‘90s
sports Page 44 ... Softball coach returns to UA
Page14: Page18: Page 42: Vigil lights city in darkest hour Habitat unites Tide, Tigers Pink Box searches for talent
• Jonathan Reed, editor-in-chief, • Tony Tsoukalas, sports editor, • Emily Richards, advertising • Greg Woods, zone 3, 348-8735 manager, 348-8995, cwadmanager@ [email protected] [email protected] gmail.com • Jessica West, zone 4, 348-8054 • Kyle Carey, design editor • Marquavius Burnett, assistant sports • Robert Clark, zone 5, 348-2670 • Katherine Martin, news editor, editor • Dana Andrzejewski, advertising coordinator, 348-8044 [email protected] • Brian Pohuski, graphics editor • Will DeShazo, zone 6, 348-6876 • Stephanie Brumfield, lifestyles editor, • Drew Hoover, photo editor • Brittany Key, territory manager, • Coleman Richards, zone 7, 348-8742 348-2598 [email protected] • Malcolm Cammeron, community man- • Nikki Amthor, zone 8, 348-6875 • Ashley Chaffin, assistant lifestyles ager • Emily Frost, national advertising/ classifieds, 348-8042 • Lauren Aylworth, creative services editor • Caitlin Trotter, photographer manager, 348-8042 2 NEWS BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL NEWS
BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL - Delta Gamma joins the greek scene Page 5
- New bike policy rides into campus Page 8
- Tuition increases for students Page 24 CW | Caitlin Trotter - In-state rivals come together to aid tornado - After a three-month wait, seniors finally become alumni in a victims combined Spring-Summer Commencement
Page 18 Page 27 Q AZ
P J NG
R I
U C F
S H E T D B W M
The Writing Center offers free, friendly writing consultations to all UA students. We can help you learn general writing skills and discipline-specific forms of writing at any stage of the writing process. Bring a copy of your assignment, your draft, and your questions. More info at writingcenter.ua.edu
322 Lloyd Hall MTWR, 9-6; F, 9-3; Sun., 1-5 Ferg Starbucks MTWR 6-8pm BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL NEWS 3 ONYX welcomes students to campus By Jasmine Cannon “This year, the other wrap up on Friday night with an dents will learn and have fun with Senior Staff Reporter NPHC party. the organization. coordinators and I have “This has never happened “It’s going to be a very infor-
Members of minority student taken intricate measures to before,” Davis said. “All the mative event, but the students organization ONYX have decid- ensure that the event goes greeks doing a party together will are going to have a great time as ed to take a new approach for well and appeals to incoming be interesting and fun.” we attempt to reach out to them the 2011-2012 school year. ONYX minority students.” The main focus for ONYX is to in a modern, more unique way,” started out as a block party host- engage first year students to build he said. “We have got to further ed by the National Panhellenic - Jahmir Jones, vice president of ONYX long term relationships. diversify the minds of these Council and Black Student Union “This series of premier events incoming students, and ONYX that served as a jumpstart into Aug. 31 until Sept. 2. is going to be one of the greatest believes that joining these minor- the school year, according to “[ONYX] is a big event for stu- opportunities for minority organi- ity organizations will be one of President Courtnee Davis. dents, if not the biggest,” said zations to showcase themselves to the initial steps.” “Four students – Jahmir Jones, Jahmir Jones, the organization’s the first year students,” said Alex In addition to fostering and Cynthia Morgan, Alex Camardelle vice president. “This year, the Camardelle, ONYX vice president engaging first year students, the and myself saw a need to morph other coordinators and I have of external affairs and president mission of ONYX is “to assist the annual block party into an taken intricate measures to of Future Black Law Students of the minority organizations in the organization,” said Davis, a ensure that the event goes well America. “They are the target, development of a common bond senior majoring in fashion retail- and appeals to incoming minority and they are the ones we want that will contribute to the general ing. “This year, we are having a students.” to get involved the most. After welfare of the University.” mini-week at the beginning of the NPHC Convocation will start off all, they carry so much weight All minority organizations school year.” the week, followed by midnight in the success of our university’s included are as follows: NAACP, This year ONYX is composed breakfast at Lakeside on Aug. 31. attempts to become a better, more BSU, House of éprouver, FBLSA, of members from almost every Davis said there will be an eat-off progressive institution.” National Society of Black minority organization on campus, in which all minority and greek Davis said, “The basis of our Engineers, National Association including the National Council organizations will partipate. new organization is to focus on of Black Accountants, Afro- of Negro Women, Collegiate 100 The annual block party will take incoming freshman and help American Gospel Choir, Collegiate Black Men of America and the place the following day. All minor- them to hopefully get a close look 100 and the NCNW. National Association of Black ity and greek organizations will and insight into some of the dif- The organization can be fol- Accountants. have tables and performances or ferent organizations on campus.” lowed on twitter @ONYXatUA or The event will take place from presentations. The festivities will ONYX’s theme for this year will emailed at [email protected]. be “One.” Camardelle said stu-
The Interfraternity Council
Fall Recruitment will take place on September 1st 7:00 in Gorgas Library room 205. This will be a great opportunity for interested men to meet fraternity presidents and recruitment chairman. New member parties begin on September 6th Costa’s Greek Fest is on August 26th
BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL NEWS 5 Delta Gamma sorority newest member of greek community By Ashley Chaffin Room of Bryant-Denny Stadium Assistant Lifestyles Editor to ask any questions they might have. The UA Panhellenic community “Starting Aug. 21 is what we will welcome a new organization call the colonization week,” said into their ranks this year with Shaun Young, vice president of Delta Gamma sorority. membership for Delta Gamma. Delta Gamma is one of the three “That week after formal recruit- largest sororities in the country ment is over, Delta Gamma will and has traditions dating back to have interviews and information when it was founded in 1873. sessions scheduled. Delta Gamma After undergoing a lengthy bid day will be on Sunday, Aug. process to join the greek commu- 28.” nity at the University, they final- Delta Gamma is looking to ly broke ground on their house start a well-balanced chapter, so Saturday, July 23 and will partici- they will be looking for women pate in recruitment in the fall. of all class ranks and ages to join “This year is going to be unique throughout their colonization pro- in that it is an extension year,” cess. said Gentry McCreary, director of “What’s really cool about add- Submitted Photo Greek Affairs. “They will do their ing a new sorority to a campus, it colonization immediately follow- really opens up the opportunity to Delta Gamma breaks ground for their new house. ing formal recruitment in the fall.” women of fall class ranks who may ask any questions she might have Conference school with a big The colonization of a new soror- not have pledged as freshmen,” about joining. Many upperclass- emphasis on football, is a huge ity is a very different process from she said. “This is the perfect time men already have responsibili- attraction for any sorority looking the formal recruitment process for upperclassmen who have a lot ties, but Young said she hopes to to extend to a new campus, but for most sororities go through every to contribute to a new sorority in assure them that Delta Gamma Delta Gamma, there were a lot of year. Delta Gamma will partici- the form of maturity and leader- will fit into their already busy other factors that went into choos- pate in the first round of rush, the ship, as well as those who want lives. ing Alabama. They previously had open house round, and then drop the opportunity of lifetime mem- “We just looked and said that a chapter on the UA campus that out. During the rest of that week, bership in a sorority, to get in.” Alabama is a place Delta Gamma did not last; this time, they are any interested girls can meet with Young encouraged every inter- should be,” Young said. hoping to become a great pres- Delta Gamma in the Scholarship ested girl to at least come and Alabama, being a Southeastern ence on campus. 6 NEWS BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL UA Greek Relief raises $200,000 for tornado victims
By Marquavius Burnett When this relief effort first Assistant Sports Editor started, it consisted only of greek students. Soon after, non-greeks, When the tornado struck people from the community and Tuscaloosa on April 27, University many across the country joined of Alabama officials advised stu- in to help. Not only did they raise dents to get out of the city and money, but they also served meals travel home, if possible. and dispensed supplies at various Instead, some members of the shelters and distribution centers. greek community decided to form Morris said the tragedy really a relief effort comprised of cur- hit home, and he felt obligated to rent students, alumni, University help in some way. officials and city representatives “I have never seen a tornado, to help the city. By August, they and I assumed that this one had raised more than $200,000 for wouldn’t be a big deal,” he said. relief efforts. “After seeing the damage that “People could have donated night, it put me in shock. I knew the money to Red Cross, but we had to do something. Realizing they donated the money to us, the power and the resources we and they wanted to make sure it had within the greek system, I stayed in the city of Tuscaloosa,” knew that if we could harness all said Patrick Morris, co-chairman of that together, we could really CW | Jonathan Reed of UA Greek Relief. “Our promise make a huge impact. It started as Students collected food at the Delta Kappa Epsilon house to distribute to them is no matter what, this a small operation and has steam- to tornado victims. money will go purely to the relief rolled into one of the biggest relief effort of Tuscaloosa.” efforts the city has.” Morris said the group plans to are going to be full-force fundrais- “It started as a small operation and has steamrolled into one of the continue raising money and help- ing as much as we can,” Morris biggest relief efforts the city has.” ing the city until the end of the cal- said. “I would love to double what endar year. we have now... I would love to be at - Patrick Morris, co-chairman of UA Greek Relief “We don’t have a specific num- $300,000 or $400,000 by the time we ber goal, but I can tell you that we are done. The sky is the limit.”
8 NEWS BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL Bike registration now required for UA students
By Sarah Massey to and from University buildings and facilities, In order to ensure that cyclists comply with Senior Staff Reporter reduce bicycle theft and establish and publish these new rules and regulations, the University written guidelines and regulations. plans to enforce the policy by using fines for On July 12, the University Transportation “In order to address the concerns of the those that violate certain rules. Although fines Services introduced a new bicycle policy that entire community, the University has adopt- for every violation are not listed in the policy, it will take effect in the fall semester. With a ed a bicycle policy which seeks to balance does state that if a bike is confiscated – due to requirement to register bikes, regulations on the needs and concerns of all parties,” said parking violation – it will be released upon the where bikes can be parked and the possibility Ronnie Robertson, director of Transportation payment of a $25 fee. of fines for violations, this policy ushers in new Services. “The University encourages all stu- Kirby Simpson, a senior majoring in market- changes that will affect cyclists on campus. dents who bring bikes on campus to register ing, sees the policy as a way “for the University The bicycle policy is the first of its kind from their bikes with Transportation Services in to gain revenue” and doesn’t find many posi- the University. The policy enumerates several order to help identify them if they are stolen or tive outcomes. As a student who rides his bike if there is a need to contact the owner.” to every class, as well as to his work at both These guidelines, developed by a joint the Student Recreation Center and the Aquatic HOW TO REGISTER effort of University Recreation, Housing & Center, the policy directly affects his daily Residential Communities, UAPD, University campus life, he said. • Go to bamaparking.ua.edu Planning & Design, Transportation Services Simpson said having a citation for an illegal • Provide the serial number, brand and Risk Management & Facilities, require use of a bike and requiring the placement of a name and color of the bike. that all bicycles on campus be registered. The decal are negative aspects of the policy. • Pick up decal from 101 Student policy also states “there will be no charge to Services Center and place decal register your bicycle at this time.” To read the new bicycle below seat. In addition to registration, the policy states policy, scan the code • Park only on designated bike racks that cyclists should “ride their vehicles on below with your phone to avoid being fined. campus in bike lanes or in traffic lanes in or visit accordance with Alabama State Law.” It adds bamaparking.ua.edu. that bicycles must be walked in pedestrian points of concern for both pedestrians and areas. Cyclists must also secure their bicycles cyclists, seeking to enhance pedestrian and to a bicycle rack – and not on any other object rider safety on campus, provide for a safe entry that may interfere with University facilities.
3URGXFWV 6HUYLFHV /RFDWLRQV • Automatic Refill & Reminder Service Cottondale • ExpressPay 4400 University Blvd. E Store & RX: • Request refills, print history and check Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 205-553-6188 profile online. • Digital prints Hillcrest Area • CDs from film or digital Located on the corner of Store: 205-758-1059 • 1 hour processing and passport Hwy. 69 S & Patriot Pkwy. RX: 205-758-1684 pictures in minutes Northport • Upload photos from home at walgreens.com Located on the corner of Lurleen B. Wallace & Store: • We carry eggs, bread, milk and an 205-333-8587 McFarland Blvd. RX: 205-333-9343 assortment of grocery items. Tuscaloosa’s Only 24hr Pharmacy & Photolab • School Supplies • Home decor and seasonal items :HOFRPHEDFNVWXGHQWV :H¶YHJRW\RXUFROOHJHPHUFKDQGLVH
7KHUH¶VDZD\WR:HOO BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL NEWS 9 Tuscaloosa announces long-term rebuilding plan By Ashley Chaffin “We have to have a community that is it is going to be located; I have a home, and Assistant Lifestyles Editor healthy and vibrant and that provides I’m hoping more single-family detached homes will come back to the area. More so of a neigh- Since the tornado hit on April 27, the city has us with all of what we need in our daily borhood, rather than multifamily housing or been working on plans for rebuilding. lives.” low-income housing.” Although officials have stressed that these Belle was not alone in voicing her concerns plans were just a first draft, they believe it is John McConnell, director of planning and development services. about the plans showing more multifamily important for the citizens of Tuscaloosa who community-centric, this plan includes a green- housing than detached homes; this was the were affected by the tornado to see the prog- way “path of remembrance and revitalization,” biggest concern McConnell heard all day. ress that has been made thus far. connected neighborhoods and village centers. “It’s a natural response – the community is “We’re going to be bold,” Mayor Walt In theory, all of these ideas being included in very tempted to skim over the document, go Maddox said. “Everything that we propose is the plan will not only improve physical con- to the map to see where their property is, and not going to be the right fit for Tuscaloosa, but nections between neighborhoods but will also see how whatever is drawn on the map affects throwing ideas out there and talking about improve social connections, because everyone their property,” he said. “That’s why we stress how to improve your community, that’s a great will now have easier access to their neighbors this is very conceptual.” dialogue.” and businesses in other communities. The plan was based on input from citizens The plans, which were based on input from According to this plan, there will be three at town hall meetings and online through the Tuscaloosa citizens rather than city officials, types of residential housing. The first, village forum MindMixer, where people could log focused on making Tuscaloosa much more residential, includes housing of different price on and discuss ideas. The input that the city community-centric than it was in the years ranges and styles such as town homes, mul- received in July will also go into the final draft leading up to the tornado. tifamily housing and attached family hous- of the plans that will be presented to the coun- In July, Tuscaloosa citizens got their first ing. The second, mixed-use corridor, will try cil in late August. After the plan is approved, opportunity to come in, look over the finished to balance commercial and residential uses in the city will begin writing codes and doing first draft of the plans and voice any problems a single area. Finally, there will be neighbor- studies on how to make this plan a reality. or concerns that they had with it. hood residential, which will be similar to the “If I could encourage any resident or busi- “What a great dialogue we’re having with detached, single-family homes that once stood ness to do this, I would encourage them to hold our community about our future,” he said. in Forest Lake or Cedar Crest. tight and wait,” McConnell said. “There may “The fact that we can agree and disagree, that “My biggest concern, in my particular area, be a benefit they can get from this planning is our government at its best.” is the village center,” said Sylvia Belle, who lost process that they wouldn’t if they go ahead and In order to make Tuscaloosa much more her home in Holt. “I’m not exactly sure where rebuild.”
Learn more about DG:
Monday, August 22 Wednesday, August 24 Ferguson Center - TV Lounge Ferguson Center - Theater 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
As the newest sorority, we offer the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be a charter member. Join us to make Delta Gamma -- and Alabama -- history!
For more information or to sign-up for an interview go to: www.bamadeltagamma.com Questions? E-mail us at: [email protected] 10 NEWS BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL New Tri-Delt, Sigma Chi houses on agenda
By Jonathan Reed Editor
In June, the Physical Properties Commission of the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees reviewed several construction proj- ects for the University, which the full Board of Trustees approved on Friday, June 17. The Board approved plans for a new Delta Delta Delta sorority house to be located on Magnolia Drive. The house will be located next to the Design House for the College of Human Environmental Sciences and is part of a new
FAST FACTS
New greek housing in the works:
• Delta Delta Delta • Alpha Gamma Delta • Alpha Delta Pi • Delta Gamma • Phi Delta Theta Submitted Photo • Sigma Chi A rendering of what the new Delta Delta Delta house will look like. BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL NEWS 11
A render- ing of the new Sigma Chi house on University Boulevard.
Submitted Photo
development that will also include tion will clear the way for the it always comes with no strings complex and student center would houses for Alpha Gamma Delta, National Oceanic and Atmospheric attached, and it always comes make the older buildings on cam- Delta Gamma and Alpha Delta Pi. Administration to build a home for early,” he said. pus seem obsolete. UA President Robert Witt said the National Water Center. The The Trustees also discussed “Make sure the old buildings are the University will not break National Water Center will allow preliminary plans for the North up to par,” he said. ground on any of the houses until UA researchers to work alongside Campus Student Center, which The Trustees agreed to apply the Board has seen designs for all NOAA officials. The University will will be located in the North Bluff for acquisition of property on 10th four. Designs for Delta Gamma and lease the land to NOAA. residential complex. The center will Avenue owned by the United States Alpha Gamma Delta were present- The University of Alabama include a gym and dining facilities. Army. Although the structure – ed and approved at the Board’s last System will move its office from The proposed project would cost often referred to as the Armory – meeting. Queen City Avenue to campus. nearly $19 million. was damaged during the storm, the The Delta Delta Delta house The new building will be located Trustee James Wilson III expressed University still feels as though the is estimated to cost $11.5 million. at the intersection of University concern that the new residential property can be useful. The University will pay for the Boulevard and 5th Avenue East. house, and the sorority will pay the The 33,000 square foot building was University back over the course of made possible by a $3.5 million gift 30 years, said Tim Leopard, assis- by Sidney McDonald, former presi- tant vice president for facilities. dent pro tempore of the Board of With the Board’s approval, the Trustees. University can now begin searching McDonald served on the Board for a contractor to build the house. from 1992 to 2008, a time period The Board also reviewed designs that saw a rapid growth in the UA Salon Serenity for a new Sigma Chi fraternity System, according to UA System house, located next to Phi Delta Chancellor Malcolm Portera. In that I\\PM4ISM[WN6WZ\P:Q^MZ1VK Theta on University Boulevard. The time span, the system grew from a house would cost $6.7 million. With budget of $2.2 billion to $4.5 billion, the approval, the University has and the system’s economic impact First time guests will receive begun the search for a contractor to has grown to more than $8 billion, build the house. Portera said. The University also unveiled a Portera said McDonald always 50% off plan to demolish the Environmental maintained an overwhelming com- Health Sciences building on mitment to education. any one service of your choiceh Hackberry Lane. The demoli- “His support is always significant, ! :Q KM 5QVM:L6- <][KITWW[I)4
VISALUS INDEPENDENT DISTRIBUTOR ! Transform Your Body, Get FREE Product and Win prizes!* 90 Days to a New You! For Everybody, and Every BODY!
* Restrictions apply. Contact me for complete details. bama.bodybyvi.com Kay Galloway 205.349.9037 12 NEWS BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL SGA tables Zimride proposal, approves other resolutions By Jasmine Cannon 1. To show appreciation to the UA Greek Relief Senior Staff Reporter “I think, if anything, what we learned from efforts, the senate presented James Fowler this senate meeting… is that this senate is very and Meg McCrummen with a resolution. The In its first session of the summer, Thursday different from the senates that have been here senate also approved transfers of funds to the night the Student Government Association before, and this senate is very much more of financial affairs and student affairs accounts. senate tabled a proposal to create a social a reflection of the student body – and they’re “Those accounts have run deficits from the media ridesharing network. going to stand up for what they believe is previous administration,” Flamerich said. A bill to bring Zimride to the University was right,” Flamerich said. “Senate approved the funds to zero-out the sent to the financial affairs committee for fur- ther consideration. Senators discussed wheth- “This senate is very different from the er or not they wanted to commit funds to the “It is disappointing that they chose to cut a program that would directly benefi t every senates that have been here before... and program. they’re going to stand up for what they Ryan Flamerich, speaker of the senate, said student at UA.” the senate effectively rejected the proposal believe is right.” since funds needed to be allocated before July — Seth Morrow, SGA Communications Director — Ryan Flamerich, SGA Speaker of the Senate
ZIMRIDE In a statement issued after the meeting, deficits, but there are going to be serious ques- SGA Communications Director Seth Morrow tions on why those accounts ran deficit in the expressed concern with the senate’s newfound fall.” • What is it?: Zimride is a ride- right to reject the proposals of the executive Six resolutions were passed in memory of share program for students that uses branch. UA students who were killed by the April 27 social networking to connect people. “While senate’s decision to not fund the tornado. Zimride program illustrates the new separa- “On April 27, it was not a good day in • What did the SGA do?: The tion of powers outlined in our constitution, it Tuscaloosa, and I think it’s good that senate SGA Senate voted not to use SGA is disappointing that they chose to cut a pro- is celebrating the lives of those who passed away, because it shows that every student is funds for it, but the Universitiy will still gram that would directly benefit every student at UA,” he said. “Zimride is an environmen- important on this campus no matter what,” cover the whole cost of the program. tally friendly rideshare program that students Flamerich said. The last resolution presented and approved • Check out Zimride: could use when traveling on campus, as well as to off campus events and functions such as by the senate was a resolution to approve pay- At zimride.ua.edu football games.” ment for the SGA “Through the Years” video.
Vigil lights city’s darkest hour After the April 27 tornado, candle light helps T-town remember
By Robert Moore The vigil began promptly at 8 p.m. with the physical devastation of our land, but an emo- Contributing Writer introduction of the attending special guests. tional assault on our hearts,” Roberts said. Members on the program included Council Men “However, since that date, there has been an On June 1, Tuscaloosa held a candlelight vigil and Women, members of the Police Department, outpouring of support and service that abso- to honor those who lost their lives and those who University of Alabama Provost, and many others lutely defies description. We have seen assis- dedicated their time and effort in the aftermath who were key in helping Tuscaloosa following tance by the truckload, and it has come from of the April 27 tornado. the tornado. every point on the map.” Vigil attendees began to gather in downtown LaDonna Roberts, Tuscaloosa’s volunteer coor- Tuscaloosa County Sheriff Ted Sexton thanked Tuscaloosa around 7 p.m. in anticipation of a dinator, spoke first and thanked the numerous residents for their faith in a time where so much large turnout. Volunteers handed out candles volunteers who selflessly came out and helped was lost. and wristbands that boasted houndstooth print any way they could. and the words “Spirit of Tuscaloosa” on them. “On April 27, our city experienced not only the See VIGIL, page 16
16 NEWS BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL University of Alabama senior vice president and provost Judy Bonner gave thanks to the unsung heroes not for the great things, but in “doing small things with great love.” Following the recognition of those who helped in the time of need, members of the community read off the names of those lost in the disaster. The crowd cheered as Mayor Walt Maddox approached the podium and addressed the audi- ence. “We gather here tonight as one people who have been called by circumstance, burdened by tragedy, yet inspired by a confident hope,” Maddox said. He spoke first on the tragic yet heroic and inspiring stories and then spoke of the spirit of the city and the process of rebuilding. “Throughout Tuscaloosa County, our confi- dent hope was displayed on street corners and in neighborhoods, where thousands of citizens Sumerlin Brandon Photography transformed themselves into heroes by aiding Volunteers light their neighborsʼ candles at the candlelight vigil on June 1. the injured, searching for the missing, clearing debris and volunteering from dawn to dusk,” he to serve and be community problem solvers,” said.” McCollum said. “Elected local leaders stepped After Maddox spoke, attendees lit the hope VIGIL candle, which rested in a holder made out of a Continued from page 14 forward and met the local challenges head on, working tirelessly attempting to relieve the pain splintered tree from the devastated Forest Lake “Our city’s hope for the future is in the Lord inflicted on our communities.” neighborhood. God,” Sexton said. “He will turn our sorrow into Tuscaloosa police chief Steve Anderson recog- One by one the flames of the candles spread, as rejoicing and our despair into hope and he will nized the first responders for their involvement Chris Tomlin’s “God of this City” sang a message rebuild, restore and renew the city of Tuscaloosa in the process. for Tuscaloosa, “For greater things have yet to and Tuscaloosa County.” “The first responders of Tuscaloosa County come, and greater things are still to be done in Probate Judge Hardy McCollum acknowledged demonstrated their love for the citizens of our this city.” Tuscaloosa’s elected officials for their efforts. city and our county,” he said. “They put their In the end, Maddox concluded, “Tonight, as “There are those entrusted with public office lives in danger when the lives of others were in we raise our lights to heaven, we declare that and public service elected by our fellow citizens jeopardy.” Tuscaloosa’s darkest hour has passed.”
you sell back your books and forget what you learned, but you’ll never forget YOUR college YEARS!
only $35
be sure to preserve your memories today* purchase a 2012 yearbook
scan QRcode to purchase now!! corolla.ua.edu
Welcome Back to School College of Education Family
THE FUTURE IS IN YOUR CLASS
Call it a community, call it a social network, call it a tribe, call it a family: Whatever you call it, you have one at The University of Alabama.
http://education.ua.edu 18 NEWS BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL Rivals work together to rebuild homes By Noomi Grootens Contributing Writer “Our communities were able to come together and put aside our rivalry. It’s proof that despite what we may believe in during football season, we can come together to give back to people Two rivals came together to work for the who lost everything.” same cause at the end of July – building new homes for two families who were affected - Kiara Summerville by the April 27 tornado that ripped through Tuscaloosa. As More than 60 University of Alabama students part of and 30 Auburn University students worked on Habitat the Habitat for Humanity’s House United build- for Hu- ing project. manity, Art Pearce, executive director for the students Alabama Association of Habitat Affiliates, saw from the building project as the perfect opportunity rival to unite two chapters and improve the living schools conditions of the two families. worked “This project brings together America’s together greatest rivalry in a joint effort to improve the to build lives of Habitat partner families across the houses. state,” Pearce said. “We thought it was appro- priate to come to Tuscaloosa, and the group Submitted leaders from both universities were able to put Photo a group of their current students and alumni “It’s proof that despite what we may believe in regardless of what the rivalries may mean. together to be a part of this building process.” during football season, we can come together “Our volunteers are always able to put their Kiara Summerville, a junior majoring in pub- to give back to people who lost everything.” differences aside to come together on a Habitat lic relations, saw this as an opportunity to give Bob Johnson, executive director for Habitat site and work to better the lives of these peo- back, despite the rivalry. Tuscaloosa, said people are often able to come ple,” Johnson said. “It’s not about which uni- “Our communities were able to come togeth- together on Habitat work sites to work toward versity you come from or what you believe in, er and put aside our rivalry,” Summerville said. a cause that will improve the lives of victims, Habitat volunteers have the goal to ultimately m twth now in print monday, tuesday, wednesday & thursday. pick it up. BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL NEWS 19
weren’t the only volunteers – they were also joined by a number of corporate and church members, as well as a few members of the Kent State University football program. Alan Ashby, assistant athletic director for communications at Kent State, saw the build- ing project as the perfect opportunity to give back to the Tuscaloosa community. “We thought, our season opener is here, and since Coach Saban graduated from our uni- versity, we have great ties to UA,” Ashby said. “We planned everything as best as we could and thought it was a small way that we could give back.” Although the two homes were a great start to rebuilding damaged neighborhoods, Johnson said Habitat is committed to continuing the rebuilding process in the neighborhoods that were damaged by the storms. “Our goals are to rehab homes to where they are built better than they were before, as well as rebuild homes from the ground up,” Johnson said. “We plan on building a number of houses around these neighborhoods, and these two that we’ve started on are just the beginning.” Submitted Photo Wahnee Sherman, director of UA’s University of Alabama and Auburn University students joined forces at the end of July to build houses Community Service Center, said the goal is for tornado victims. to ultimately have the two universities come together each year to give back to the Alabama serve families and be united.” speaks volumes about the people of our community. Bev Leigh, III, development director for the nation,” Leigh said. “We’ve had 22,000 vol- “We are looking forward to this being an West Alabama Chapter of the American Red unteers for the Red Cross alone and a ton of annual event where the two institutions can Cross, said the amount of people who have vol- representation across our country. It speaks come together to help benefit other areas of unteered is proof to people’s ability to become volumes on the generosity from volunteers in the state,” Sherman said. united. support of the victims of the storms.” Habitat has set the target date for finishing “The amount of support we’ve received But the Alabama and Auburn students the first homes to be Sept. 1. 20 NEWS BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL ‘Tonight, we honor those lost brothers and sisters’ UA holds remembrance ceremony for six students killed in April 27 tornado By Jonathan Reed Editor
A bell rang six times as a few hundred stu- dents, parents and Tuscaloosa residents sat in silence in Foster Auditorium the night of Friday, Aug. 5. Six red roses laid next to six candles. An emotional SGA President Grant Cochran told the stories of the six students who lost their lives along with 41 others when a tornado ripped through Tuscaloosa on April 27. One hundred days after the storm hit, on the eve of a graduation ceremony three months in the making, the University of Alabama hosted a memorial service for the students killed in the storm: Scott Atterton, Danielle Downs, Ashley Harrison, Melanie Nicole Mixon, Morgan Sigler and Marcus Smith. Cochran, who said he did not know any of the students personally, paused several times as he spoke about each student, once wiping a tear from his eye. “While the April 27 tornado brought out the best in the UA community, it also left a path of destruction in the city we love,” he said.
“When we tragically lost six students, it was this university that surrounded these families and demonstrated that ‘love thy neighbor’ is more than just a mere suggestion.”
— Mayor Walt Maddox
CW|Caitlin Trotter Cochran said Atterton wanted to be a teach- A member of the Avanti Team presents a rose to the parents of one of the six UA students who lost their er and a basketball coach, while Downs want- lives in the April 27th tornado. ed to use her degree in social work to help those who cannot help themselves. “Scott, Danielle, Ashley, Melanie Nicole, strength,” he said. “It has brought confidence. Harrison, he said, “taught us to be our high- Morgan, Marcus, the memories are so pre- It has brought progress.” est and best selves,” while Mixon taught every- cious, we will always love you, miss you, be Former SGA President James Fowler, who one to enjoy the world. inspired by you,” he said. graduated at 9:30 the next morning, spoke “[Sigler] taught us the importance of spend- UA President Robert Witt praised the lead- about the devotion students have to the ing time with the people we love, and we will ership of Mayor Walt Maddox during this dif- Tuscaloosa community and each other. smile every time we think of her,” he said. ficult time in the city’s history. “Classmates became more than acquain- Smith’s brother said he was the glue that “[Maddox’s] leadership has brought tances, they became brothers and sisters,” he held his family together, Cochran said. 7XVFDORRVD Deck out your dorm orfor less essess@less @ @ (\HFDUH 569;/769; Back 2 Campus Checklist &RPSOHWHFRPSUHKHQVLYH Brand name bedding YLVLRQFDUHDYDLODEOH:DON,QV Bathroom essentials ZHOFRPH4XDOLW\H\HFDUHDQG FRQWDFWOHQVHV Wall decor Lighting ORFDWLRQVWRVHUYH\RX +DOH 3LFNHQVDQG*UHHQH&R Laundry storage Desk organizers 0RVW,QVXUDQFHV$FFHSWHG 6N\ODQG%OYG( 7XVFDORRVD$/ ^^^L`LJHYL[\ZJHSVVZHJVT BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL NEWS 21
SGA Presi- “Classmates became more than dent Grant acquaintances, they became brothers and Cochran sisters. Tonight, we honor those lost speaks while for- brothers and sisters.” mer SGA President — Former SGA President James Fowler James Fowler lays said. “Tonight, we honor those lost brothers out roses at and sisters.” the memo- Students played a vital role in helping the rial service city stay on its feet, and that shows a deep con- on August nection to the city, he said. 5th. “Students could have left town, but instead hauled debris and rebuilt homes,” he said. CW|Caitlin “Instead, they cooked tens of thousands of Trotter meals for relief workers.” Maddox, speaking of Tuscaloosa’s confident Former hope just as he had at the city’s candlelight SGA Presi- vigil two months earlier, praised the UA com- dent James munity’s ability to come together in the wake Fowler of disaster. lights the “When we tragically lost six students, it was Spirit of this university that surrounded these families Tuscaloosa and demonstrated that ‘love thy neighbor’ is Candle. more than just a mere suggestion,” he said. The impact of the tornado is part of the city’s story, but the way the city responded is more CW|Caitlin important, he said. Trotter “There are new chapters in our history that await,” he said. “A new story will be written, how we met the worst of Mother Nature with the best of humanity. This is, and always will be, our story.” .\P[HY.HSSLY` 309 Hargrove Road East, 1.5 miles from the campus!
1HZ /RFDWLRQ
1HZ 8VHG
:H 7DNH 7UDGHV
*VTLZLLV\YUL^SVJH[PVU-YVTJHTW\Z[HRL /HJRILYY`3HULHJYVZZ [OZ[YLL[/HJRILYY`[\YUZPU[V /HYNYV]LYVHKPU[OLZOHYWJ\Y]L.VVULTPSLWHZ[ZOHYW J\Y]L>LHYLVU[OLYPNO[Q\Z[HM[LYA(7WOV[VNYHWO`6Y JHSS\ZMVYKPYLJ[PVUZH[ ;OL.\P[HY.HSSLY`I\`ZZLSSZHUK[YHKLZÄULN\P[HYZHUK Downtown Tuscaloosa HTWSPÄLYZ:LL\ZVUSPULH[^^^[OLN\P[HYNHSSLY`JVTVY 205-752-6931 • www.theshirtshop.biz VU-HJLIVVRQ\Z[ZLHYJO.\P[HY.HSSLY` AOdS!#]\CaSRAOdSc^b]##]\@S\bOZAOdSc^b]" ]\0W\RS`@SORgAOdSc^b]" ]\2WUWbOZ
24 NEWS BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL Board of Trustees approves increase in tuition Decline of state funding key factor in steadily increasing cost of education
By Jonathan Reed increase to make up for the funding gap,” he increase, Andreen said. Editor said. Other universities are raising tuition as The University has cut some costs in order well. Auburn University raised tuition and will The University of Alabama System Board of to make up for the funding shortfall since require students to pay a “proration fee,” a rise Trustees approved a tuition increase for UA 2008, Hayes said. Between 2008 and 2010, the in costs that will total more than 10 percent, students in June, raising the cost by nearly 9 Hayes said. The University of Florida raised percent for in-state students and 7 percent for their tuition by 15 percent, the University of out-of-state students. “State support is declining. Tennessee by 9.9 percent and Louisiana State In-state students will pay $4,300 a semester That’s the new norm.” during the 2011-2012 school year, up $350 from FAST FACTS last year. Out-of-state students will pay $10,950 — Ray Hayes, vice chancellor of financial affairs, a semester, up $700 from last year. UA System Ray Hayes, vice chancellor of financial affairs for the UA System, said the increase was primarily due to the steady decline in funding University began cutting services and reduc- • In-State Students: Tuition from the state. ing staff to offset the shortfall. increased by 9 percent, from $3,950 “State support is declining,” he said. “That’s “We have worked diligently to reduce costs, a semester to $4,300. the new norm.” including changes to our operating budget and The University has suffered a $62 mil- the implementation of initiatives that have • Out-of-State Students: Tuition lion cut in state funding since 2008, said UA successfully reduced our energy consump- increased by 7 percent, from $10,250 spokeswoman Cathy Andreen. This year, state tion,” Andreen said. “As a result, we have not a semester to $10,950. funding will make up less than 17 percent of reduced the number of students we accept; the University’s budget. In 2006, state funds students have full access to the classes they • Fees: The University also increased accounted for more than 24 percent, she said. need to graduate; we are fully staffed to meet the cost of parking permits and college Hayes said the tuition increase alone will not student expectations; and classes are taught and technology fees. account for the entire cut in revenue. by fully qualified faculty.” “Assuming there would be no additional rise Fees levied by individual colleges, such as in costs, it would take more than a 20 percent technology fees and facilities fees, are likely to
Monday-Thursday: 11:00am-10:00pm Friday & Saturday: 11:00am-11:00pm Sunday: 10:30am-9:00pm (205) 391-0572 • 511 Greensboro Avenue BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL NEWS 25
University by 8 percent, he said. through programs such as emergency loans with a tuition increase, it is important to recog- Despite the increase in tuition and other and textbook rentals. Cochran also expressed nize the current education budget crisis in our costs, Hayes said the University is dedicated his support for the University for keeping state,” he said. “I appreciate the administra- to providing support for students. From 2008 tuition affordable through tough economic tion’s and the Board of Trustees’ efforts to keep to 2010, the three universities in the system times. the Capstone affordable for all students.” increased need-based and merit-based finan- “While I understand students’ frustration cial aid support by a total of more than $50 million, he said. Estimated Cost of Attendance (in-state, on-campus student) During the 2009-2010 12000120000 school year, the University provided more than $47 1000010000 $11,175 million in merit-based and $7,055 $10,412 (2011-2012) need-based scholarship (2010-2011) aid, Andreen said. That is 8000 (2006-2007) an increase from less than $11 million during the 2002- 2003 school year, she said. 60006000 In addition, more than Fee Increase (average student, per semester) 10,000 students across the 4000 system work on-campus, 3500 and those jobs are anoth- $365 300 er way the system can (2011-2012) help students with tuition 250 increases, he said. 200 $100 Andreen said the (2006-2007) 2009 University employs more 150 than 4,500 students, and 100 Technology fee those students earned begins $10.7 million in 2009-2010. Student Government Association President 2006-2007 ‘08 ‘09‘09 ‘10‘10 2011-2012 Grant Cochran said the SGA will continue to pro- CW | Brian Pohuski vide support for students m twth now in print monday, tuesday, wednesday & thursday. pick it up.
BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL NEWS 27 An end to graduation anticipation After three months’ wait, UA seniors fi nally cross the stage
Left: Dr. Witt address the soon to be graduates at commence- ment Saturday morning. Above: A UA graduate exhibits a script “A” on her cap.
CW|Caitlin Trotter
CW|Caitlin Trotter James Fowler returns to his seat after receiving his di- ploma Saturday morning.
CW|Caitlin Trotter Carly James and her family celebrate after her gradua- CW|Caitlin Trotter tion Saturday morning at Coleman Coliseum. A graduate walks beside Coleman Coliseum just after the graduation ceremony. 28 NEWS BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL
Left: Delta Sigma Theta sorority sisters sing “The Sweetheart Song” outside Coleman Coliseum after graduat- ing Saturday morning.
Opposite page top left, middle left: After gradu- ates received diplomas, families, friends and loved ones gathered outside Cole- man Coliseum to share the moment and take photos.
All photos by Caitlin Trotter BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL NEWS 29
Above: Graduates await their turn to cross the stage.
Below: A graduate crosses the stage to receive her diploma as her name is read.
Bottom Left: Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority gather outside Cole- man Coliseum after commencement ceremonies Saturday morning.
Roly Poly the original
We Deliver!!! 205.366.1222
2 whole Bama Cash Accepted sandwicheswith the 2310 4th Street for $10 presentation of this ad until 10/1/11!!! 30 LIFESTYLES BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL LIFESTYLES
- Study abroad with a Bama students in New Zealand Page 36
- Nickelodeon brings back ‘90s classics on late night TV Page 40
Submitted Photo
- UA Students win awards at the International Campus MovieFest in Los Angeles. Senior Xavier Burgin won Best 3D Movie for a film about the Tuscaloosa tornado. Page 32
32 LIFESTYLES BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL Students win at Campus MovieFest International Senior Xavier Burgin wins best 3D UA students stroll down the Red fi lm for doc about April 27 tornado Carpet at the Campus By Mari Johnson the award for Best 3D Film at the MovieFest Staff Reporter grand finale. According to Burgin, Internation- his film “Portrait of a Storm” pro- al Grand Students from all over the world vided an up-close look at the April Finale. traveled to Hollywood the first 27 tornado and included personal weekend of July to showcase accounts from survivors as scenes their award-winning films in the of the devastation filled the screen. Campus MovieFest International Burgin was awarded a $5,000 Grand Finale. scholarship for his movie and said At the end of the spring semes- his award was a validation of his ter, students from the University work. of Alabama were invited to “When my name was called for Campus MovieFest International, Best 3D Film, a weight lifted off my the world’s largest student film shoulders and another rested atop festival, because of their stu- my head when I realized I had to Submitted dent films that placed in the UA give a speech,” Burgin said. “Still, Photo Campus MovieFest. I managed to trudge forward and Xavier Burgin, a senior major- give an outstanding speech on the ing in film production, received devastation of the Tuscaloosa tor- nado and the necessity of keeping “Even though my first film our plight in the limelight of the ‘Bottom of a Glass’ didn’t win, had media’s eyes.” it not been for doing that movie “When my name was called for Best 3D Film, a weight lifted off Burgin and his team, Que the first, I would have never had the my shoulders and another rested atop my head when I realized I Lights, previously won Best chance to work on the 3D film, had to give a speech.” Drama at the University of which allowed me to move on to Alabama Campus MovieFest for the next level and make my award — Xavier Burgin their film “Bottom of a Glass.” winning film,” Burgin said. BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL LIFESTYLES 33
“This entire event felt like a microcosm of the industry. I may not meet everyone at the top and I may not even make it to the top, but these were the people I would later shake hands with if I did.”
- Xavier Burgin
The students also got a chance five films were dramas,” he said. to meet several celebrities and Carey was able to tour Turner people involved in the film indus- Studios and said the workshops try. Thomas Coiner, a senior and he attended were very enlighten- creator of the claymation “Blue ing about how to enter the film Barry,” had the pleasure of going industry. to Hollywood and said everyone “Most of the celebrity present- learned a lot and had a good time. ers said that if you want to get into “One night, we went to an the industry, you should come to improv comedy show to see L.A. and start with low-end jobs Donald Glover, which was really and work your way up,” Carey cool,” Coiner said. “We got a good said. dose of L.A.” Burgin said he got the chance to Coiner, whose film placed in the meet Gabourey Sidibe, star of the Top 28, said he was proud of all of movie “Precious.” He also said he the students from Alabama and enjoyed himself overall and was their accomplishments. able to exchange business cards “I realize why 32 million people with more than 200 people in the live in L.A. Because it’s a beautiful film industry. place, he said.” “This entire event felt like a Andrew Carey, a 2011 graduate microcosm of the industry,” he and director of “Sugarbaby,” also said. “I may not meet everyone at placed in the Top 28 films and said the top and I may not even make it was a really good year for CMF it to the top, but these were the Submitted Photo in terms of dramas. people I would later shake hands Xavier Burgin, a senior majoring in fi lm production, delivers his acceptance “Usually, you get a lot of dramas with if I did.” speech after receiving the award for Best 3D Film. that are corny, but four of the top
205-752-2990 1218 University Blvd. on the Strip www.locker-room.biz
BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL LIFESTYLES 35 COLUMN Google+ exhibits an abundance of potential
By Ashley Chaffin There may, however, be a huge benefi t in exciting because it was exclusive. As everyone Assistant Lifestyles Editor and their mother (literally) joined in on the having to play catch-up. The obvious being fun, using it became less about its exclusiv- Everyone who likes to make their opinion that eventually all social networks are re- ity and more about its familiarity. Now, every known on the Internet, which happens to placed with new ones. time Facebook makes a change, they are be most people who use the Internet, have mostly greeted with annoyance in having to made their opinions known about Google+. Facebook and Twitter learned to cohabitate, figure it out all over again. I can’t remember Thousands of media websites and publica- but eventually someone will overpower at an “improvement” Facebook made that was tions, including The Crimson White, have least one of these two big players. met with excitement and a renewed love in published reviews of what Google+ is so far. That someone could easily be Google+. the site. That is why I don’t plan on writing much The limited release that the public has seen With Twitter, there isn’t much room for about what Google+ has that Facebook or was more limited than most people have improvement. The website is simple: impart Twitter also have; I’m going to focus on what realized. Other than having to be “invited” your words of wisdom (or stupidity) on the Google+ has that no other site seems to have to the Google+ party, which isn’t really that world in 140 characters or less. It gained anymore – and that’s potential. exclusive because people seem to be willing momentum when Kelso from That 70’s Show According to Wired.com, the release of to invite just about anyone, Google seems to (Ashton Kutcher) decided the idea was revo- Google+ comes from a focused effort that think they still have some game-changers up lutionary. Since then, it has connected us with includes a lot of other Google products, hun- their sleeve. people we want to know in a way that no other dreds of engineers and a focus on making Apparently, there are more than 100 launch website has been able to do before, and for Google more “people-centric” by new CEO dates on their calendar pertaining to this lat- that, Twitter is here to stay. Larry Page. Google, who will have to play est project. If these releases are greeted with Whether Google plans to connect us with catch-up to get anywhere in social network- the same enthusiasm, or at least intrigue, as people we do know or people we don’t know, ing, is determined to do it right this time, with these first ones were, then Google is setting the exact future of Google+ is going to remain four failed attempts behind them already. itself up to gain new users with every launch. in the air until the product is released in its There may, however, be a huge benefit in hav- Whatever these launches may be, and wher- entirety. In the meantime, don’t be surprised ing to play catch-up. The obvious being that ever Google sees Google+ going, they have if Facebook comes out with an “update” that eventually all social networks are replaced the benefit of being new and exciting so that looks similar to Circles – after all, their last with new ones. Xanga gave way to MySpace, no other site can capitalize on anymore. update made the site look suspiciously simi- MySpace gave way to Facebook, somehow When Facebook was first released, it was lar to Twitter. Wood Village
M OBILE HOME PARK MINUTES FROM CAMPUS!
ON-SITE SECURITY! CAMERAS MONITORING 24/7! OFF-DUTY POLICE OFFICERS LIVING ON-SITE!
LOTS AVAILABLE! $1,000 MOVING ASSISTANCE! IN-HOUSE FINANCING AVAILABLE! SPARKLING POOL • BASKETBALL COURT • LAUNDRY FACILITY • PEACEFUL SETTING
3611 RICE MINE ROAD NE 205.758.9553 WOODVILLAGEMHP. COM 36 LIFESTYLES BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL
COLUMN | STUDY ABROAD Travels through time, space and New Zealand By Shea Stripling Tonight, like most nights since I have returned to the states, I will stay awake until the My brain is a bowl of cake batter churning in sun rises and have no doubt that I am back in Alabama. Then, I will fl ip down the Ve- the wake of silver beaters. Fuzzy-edged memo- netian blinds, pull the covers over my head and wander through the New Zealand that I ries spiral in and out and through my synapses in endless figure eights. I watch the clips play have pasted together in my mind. in rapid succession like a disordered flipbook pasted on my inner-eyelids. I cannot sleep. shop beside a fruit stand beside a thrift store fruit stand and stuff them in the pocket of my When I open my eyes, the colors of my men- beside a kebab stand beside a record store pea coat. The sky is the color of liquid paper. tal snapshots bleed into the blackness of the beside a bay. The beautiful repetition is dizzy- I breathe in the smell of tandoori chicken ceiling. On my right, the hint of green digits ing. mingled with the perfume of freshly pressed suggests it is 3 a.m. Central Time. I fumble for This is the way Wellington, New Zealand’s crepes deeply. the bedside lamp and pull a thin, silvery chain capital, is mapped out in my mind. An old man with facial tattoos is singing out from under my cotton tee. The watch on Tonight, like most nights since I have “Norwegian Wood” (my favorite Beatles song) the end is grasping the 12 and the 8 with its sin- returned to the states, I will stay awake until into a microphone knotted with scarves. I duck ewy hands. It is 8 p.m. today in New Zealand. the sun rises and have no doubt that I am back into a used bookstore and dig through stacks My thoughts have jet lag. in Alabama. Then, I will flip down the Venetian of cloth-bound books that smell of old glue Now in the kitchen, I rummage through blinds, pull the covers over my head and wan- and dust. a bowl of candies before settling on some der through the New Zealand that I have past- Back on the street, a man beside me smokes chocolaty snack that is not worth mentioning ed together in my mind. a pipe filled with tobacco that smells of burn- because it is replaced before the wrapper is In my dreams, I sip hot chocolate with straw- ing waffle cones. A few more steps and I am even crumpled. I chew and stare through the berry marshmallows from a porcelain cup as I seated on a rock beside Oriental Bay. I can see darkened pane. shuffle down the streets of Wellington. “Baby the mountains and the ocean and the city all America and New Zealand are both covered One More Time” and other songs I haven’t in one frame. I scribble something in a note- in velvet drapes, awaiting the unveiling of two heard since I had my braces removed pour out book about how beautiful the city is, something different days. In these moments, I can pretend of the doors of the classy thrift stores full of about how I drink tea and write and read and that underneath all this blackness, there lies a Kiwis dressed in shades of grey. dance and laugh and sing in the shower more coffee shop beside a bookstore beside a flower I buy buttercups from a bucket in front of a here than anywhere in the world. I feel like I BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL LIFESTYLES 37
In June, about 20 students The Maori people of New traveled Zealand believe that traveling to New into the future is more akin to Zealand. This photo walking backwards than moving shows a forwards. The future is the path rainbow behind us that is out of view and over the the past is the scenery in front bay in of us which has already been Welling- ton, New visited.. Zealand. — Shea Stripling
could stay here, indefinitely. This is when I wake up. I roll over, let out a deflating sigh and begin to contemplate how I can return. The Maori people of New Zealand believe that traveling into the future is more akin to walking backwards Submitted than moving forwards. The future Photo is the path behind us that is out of view and the past is the scenery in front of us which has already been visited. This idea takes on a spe- cial meaning when you visit New Zealand, a land a day ahead of the rest of the world. Sans Delorean, I pull out my jour- nal and attempt to travel back to the future with only a pen. Visit with us today to discuss self-designed major and minor options!
BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL LIFESTYLES 39 Arts Council to build cultural arts center downtown By Mari Johnson works for the second floor, but we incredible job. Staff Reporter “It’s for many UA students and can’t give out specifics yet,” she said. “The old website was much harder The council is taking donations to to navigate as a viewer,” Dinberg After receiving a $1.4 million Shelton students who are art- aid in construction of the new arts said. “Finding the calendar of events grant from the Department of ists and don’t have a studio to center. Wolfe said without the funds was complicated, and it just had an Housing and Urban Development, create in. Now they’ll have a to build the center, they will not be outdated feel. The new website has a the Tuscaloosa Arts Council has home.” able to accomplish their plan to add fresh, clean feel to it, while still hold- revamped its website to include a the new building. ing a unique and creative design. new page focusing on their quest to - Sandra Wolfe, executive director of the “The city has done their part with Items are laid out much clearer and build a new cultural arts center in Tuscaloosa Arts Center the grant, and we need to go in and are much easier to find.” downtown Tuscaloosa. create the space,” Wolfe said. “We The new website features three Sandra Wolfe, executive director The new cultural arts center will have raised $350,000 so far. We’ve new unique headers, each com- of the Tuscaloosa Arts Council, said be located in the 1907 Allen Jemison also received $60,000 from the plimenting the purpose of the she believes the new arts center Building on the corner of 7th Street Alabama State Arts Council.” Tuscaloosa Arts Council, the new will bring the people of Tuscaloosa and Greensboro Avenue. The council has also redesigned cultural arts center and the Bama together by providing a location for Alyssa Dinberg, an intern at the their website to make it more user- Theatre. It also comes equipped all art programs to collaborate. arts council, said the new center friendly. Subata Corporation, a local- with calendars of events for each “It’ll be a spot for students as will offer a gallery space, black ly owned design company, designed section and a virtual calculator of well,” Wolfe said. “It’s for many UA box theater and arts offices for the and built the new website with the the council’s donation progress. To students and Shelton students who Tuscaloosa Symphony, along with help of Sawaya Consulting. find out more about the new cultural are artists and don’t have a studio to other amenities. Dinberg said they were a plea- arts center and the Tuscaloosa Arts create in. Now they’ll have a home.” “Some other things are in the sure to work with and did an Council, visit tuscarts.org. Get the latest campus news cw.ua.edu SECOND
SEASON outdoor consignment of A Tradition U for NEW AND USED NAMEBRAND EQUIPMENT, GEAR AND APPAREL Over 10 Years! FOR HUNTING, FISHING, CAMPING AND MORE!
BOWS • GUNS • KNIVES RODS/REELS/TACKLE SLEEPING BAGS • TENTS • PACKS DECOYS • BOOTS • wildlife decor TREE ladder/STANDS
TUSCALOOSA’S ONLY DISCOUNT Order Online STORE FOR YOUR OUTDOOR Wingsg 10 Shrimp 10 ) ADVENTURES! Open Late (Original or BonelessBoneless) for JJUSTUST $10!
205.342.BIRD (2473) Bama Cash 1241 McFarland Blvd E 205-345-9696 230 McFarland Blvd. Northport, AL WingZone.com 40 LIFESTYLES BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL Stoop Kid, unafraid, gets back on his stoop Nickelodeon brings back the classic television shows of the ‘90s
By Mari Johnson Carter said he enjoyed the celebrity perfor- Staff Reporter FAST FACTS mances on “All That” at the end of the show and that he used to come home from school For the past 20 years, ‘90s babies have been and spend the rest of his days watching car- kicking and screaming to see some of their • What: Nickelodeon is playing toons. favorite childhood shows return to television, re-runs of classic ‘90s shows under the “I use to say that I was going to write a hit and a few weeks ago their tantrums were over. name “The ‘90s Are All That” song and perform on ‘All That,’” he said. “I can In response to numerous Facebook groups almost sing [the theme song] word for word.” dedicated to the shows, Nickelodeon chose to • Where: Teen Nick Over time, Entertainment Weekly said dust off some of its 1990s classics for the nos- TeenNick hopes to use the retro block to show talgic original children of Nickelodeon. • When: Weeknights between mid- other ’90s programming and movies. According to The New York Times, the night and 4 a.m. Rachel Turner, a sophomore majoring in repeats will begin running on TeenNick, a civil engineering, said she liked all of the part of the Nickelodeon family of cable chan- ‘90s programs, but her favorite was “Rugrats” nels, weeknights between midnight and 4 All,” “Kenan & Kel” and the cartoon “Doug.” because she loved the imagination the char- a.m., under the title “The ’90s Are All That,” “At the time, we were completely devoted to acters had. a reference to one of Nickelodeon’s most audiences ages 9, 10 and 11. It was ground- “It was cool,” she said. “I sometimes wish I popular shows in that decade. The segment breaking, and for the young viewers, a power- could actually go to the places they went in will feature sitcoms such as “All That,” ful and pivotal time in their lives. Those kids their imagination.” “Clarissa Explainsp It who are now 22, 23 and 24 want to bring that Turner also said times were much easier back,” Keith Dawkins, senior VP and back when the shows aired. general manager of TeenNick, told “The cartoons were suited more toward “Entertainment Weekly.” us,” she said. “They were simple and didn’t A group of 18 to 20-something’s at involve a 9-year-old with a cell phone. They UA took to Twitter and Facebook were more entertaining.” the night of the premiere to According to The New York Times, the chan- express their excitement for the nel says Facebook feedback will influence return of the shows. which other shows it rotates into the block. Jamarey Carter, a sophomore Research has convinced Nickelodeon execu- majoring in electrical engineer- tives that the Web — a repository of cherished ing, said he missed the days of the childhood memories — “is allowing young people to be nostalgic, probably sooner than
“The cartoons were suited more toward us. They were simple and didn’t involve a 9-year-old with a cell phone. They were more entertaining.”
—Rachel Turner, sophomore, civil engineering
Nickelodeon shows and it reminded him of other generations,” said Cyma Zarghami, the good times. channel’s president. “I heard they were bringing them back, but Erin Moulson, a senior majoring in graphic I didn’t know which ones,” Carter said. “I’m design, said she was excited to see her child- bringing my big screen back to T-Town and hood again. Moulson tweeted the night of the will Tivo every last episode.” premiere that Clarissa’s outfits were the best. University Lutheran
A Caring Congregation Serving the University & Community ¦ဖဖဖ£¡¤¡¡§¤ Sunday Worship ¦¤ဘ Sunday School 9:00am ဓထထŴ¨ထ Worship Service 10:00am ¡¤ှ¦¤¡£££¡ ဿန Quiet Study Space Available ¤¡¡¦¤®¨¡£¤®¨ ၺၸၽဖၿၺၺဖၺၽႀၸ (205) 752-8784 ¤ ဘ 911 5th Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL ¤£¡¤¤¤£¤£¦¤¤¡£¤ဘ BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL LIFESTYLES 41
Nick.com Angelica, Tommy and Chuckie are three characters from “Rugrats,” a cartoon many ʻ90s kids remember fondly.
“I definitely liked her different colored Information on ‘All That,’ though.” She quot- “Clarissa wasn’t as good as I remember. tights and crazy T-shirts,” she said. “She had ed from the show, “‘If your mother asks you Her advice was always great, but not as the best style back then. I was always jealous to sweep the kitchen, do not use your sister’s of her clothes and room.” head as a broom.’ Classic,” she said. good as the advice from Vital Information Moulson said the shows were different than According to The New York Times, if the on ‘All That,’ though.” she remembered. classics cause a ratings increase, it’s easy to “Clarissa wasn’t as good as I remember,” foresee the ’90s block becoming as permanent — Erin Moulson, senior, graphic design Moulson said. “Her advice was always great, as “Nick at Nite.” but not as good as the advice from Vital
5V6UL*HYLZ3PRL,TLYNP*HYL 67,5+(03@c5V(WWVPU[TLU[5LJLZZHY`
,TLYNP*HYL OHZTV]LK[VH [LTWVYHY`SVJH[PVU \U[PS^LYLI\PSK ¸@V\Y+VJ[VY(^H` -YVT/VTL¹ +Y7OPSSPW2)VIV :R`SHUK)S]K,HZ[,TLYNPJHYLJSPUPJJVT *(9, 42 LIFESTYLES BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL Burlesque show in search of fresh talent
By Alex Cohen detract from any leggy blonde that Burlesque Senior Staff Reporter wants to come in.” performer Men and women of all sizes have Lady Jade As artistic high school students been finding their way to Pink performs in enter college, dreams are often Box since its start in 2008. Initially a Pink Box cast aside. The social pressures unsure of how the historically show. of a narrowing job market lure conservative Tuscaloosa audience vocalists to business while pia- would perceive them, the troupe nists flock to pre-dental. But a strategically scheduled their first Submitted Tuscaloosa troupe wants to offer show for Feb. 29. Photo hope. They ask only that you prac- “If it was terrible, we’d only have tice some cadences, rediscover to do it every four years,” Mama your flair and dig up your pasties. Dixie said. Pink Box Burlesque hosted open But the southern crowd’s casting calls on Sunday, Aug. 7. response encouraged the troupe Other than age (18 and up) there to host more than every-four-year were no other restrictions for events. During the typical yearly those who wanted to audition. season, Pink Box has six to twelve “I’ve known full-bodied women shows throughout the Southeast. and even men who can find their The vaudevillian variety show fea- hips,” said Mama Dixie, madam tures everything from song and and founder of the Pink Box dance to comedy and juggling, and Burlesque Troupe. “Let that not tease is always an aspect.
“I’ve known full-bodied women and even men who can fi nd their hips. Let that not detract from any leggy blonde that wants to come in.”
- Mama Dixie
Tease usually brings the most Tesla Coil, backstage manager and controversy. After all, the tease performer for Pink Box. “It may be facet most closely resembles sexy, but the goal isn’t necessarily another situation full of erotic to be erotic. It could be humor or clothing or lack thereof — strip- even a narrative.” ping. Burlesque participants con- Despite the possibility of the tend there is a stark difference audience confusing them for their between the two. stripping second cousins, unde- “Burlesque tells a story,” said terred performers still seek out Melody Salon •haircuts• •mani/pedis• •chemical services• •waxing• •perfection smooth out• 25% off 1st time customers!
2007 32nd Street, Northport, AL 35476 (205) 339-9390 BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL LIFESTYLES 43
“Burlesque tells a story. It may be sexy, but the goal isn’t necessarily to be erotic. It could be humor or even a narrative.”
— Tesla Coil
burlesque. Mama Dixie currently “I even meet artists playing in manages 17 actors, singers, danc- the same venues I’m booking who ers and musicians. Pink Box troupe are completely unaware of bur- members have even taken their lesque,” McLure said. experiences beyond Tuscaloosa. On the other hand, Mama Dixie Cheryl Hurley, an Alabama gradu- can somewhat appreciate the ate and formerly Fifi Lafoush of region’s point of view. Pink Box, was inspired to start her “I don’t think you can have the own troupe. Based in Memphis, warm squishy side of the South Tenn., Hurley’s, now known as without the conservative restric- Fatty McLure, Tennessee Tease tions,” Mama Dixie said. “It’s two Burlesque took off in December sides of the same coin.” 2010. Their first Tuscaloosa show Both burlesque leaders urge was last night at the Green Bar. auditioners to look past stirred “I’m so lucky I went through the controversy. Despite it all, Pink business process of it all with Pink Box has continued to grow, and Box first,” McLure said. “Mama participants say they are attract- Dixie treated it like a business, ed by its beauty, not its beef with and so do I.” society. Both Fatty McLure and Mama “When I saw the show, I was Dixie say aspects of social com- inspired by these fearless, stun- mentary, especially in the South, ningly beautiful women I saw have given their organizations on stage,” Tesla Coil said. “After flak. McLure believes they are per- performing for the first time, you ceived in a negative light because realize you can evoke the same Submitted Photo of a lack of visibility. reaction.” Mama Dixie is the founder of Pink Box Burlesque in Tuscaloosa. 44 SPORTS BAMA LIFE: BACK TO SCHOOL SOFTBALL After weekend as LSU head coach, Patrick Murphy returns By Marquavius Burnett Alabama is where my heart is and I cannot in see that he has had a change of heart, because Assistant Sports Editor good conscience try to do a job in which I am I have always known that he is one of the finest not totally committed beyond any doubt. I can coaches in America.” Softball coach Patrick Murphy had a change honestly say that the last few days have only Murphy led Alabama to a 53-11 record this of heart on Sunday, June 12 and decided to made it clear that Alabama is where I want past season that included a third place finish come back to the University of Alabama after to be – beyond any doubt. It would have been at the Women’s College World Series and a agreeing to be the head coach at LSU three totally unfair to everyone at LSU – especially second consecutive Southeastern Conference days earlier. the players – for me to be conflicted at all about regular season title. Under his direction in In a statement released where I was.” 2011, Murphy had four players earn NFCA by the university, Murphy Murphy also said LSU was great in handling All-American honors and five garner All-SEC said, “First, I want to thank the situation and they had nothing to do with accolades, including two-time SEC Pitcher of everyone at the University him leaving. the Year Kelsi Dunne. of Alabama – the admin- “I appreciate everything LSU did,” Murphy In 13 seasons at Alabama, Murphy has racked istration, the players and said. “They did everything in a first class man- up a 712-210 overall record and a 287-86 record the support staff – for their ner. This change of heart is not in any way a in SEC play. He has also led the Crimson Tide support over the last few reflection on anyone at LSU. It is solely some- to seven Women’s College World Series, seven days. I have tremendous thing that I am responsible for. I can only con- SEC championships (four tournament and PATRICK MURPHY respect for the University of vey to everyone my deepest apologies for put- three regular season) and a postseason berth Alabama and for LSU. LSU offered me a great ting all of those who care about both of these every season. opportunity, but I realized once I got there that programs through a difficult time. In my heart, Alyson Habetz, Alabama’s associate head I had made a mistake that had nothing to do I know that this is the right thing for me to do.” coach, who joined Murphy at LSU, will also with LSU. I realized that I belong at Alabama. Athletic director Mal Moore said, “I am glad to return as part of the staff.
BASEBALL MEN’S GOLF WOMEN’S GOLF Tide falls to Florida State After successful season, Tide spends time at No. 1 in regionals, suffers losing Tide falls flat in National in regular season, comes in record in conference play Championship tournament eighth in NCAA Championship
The Alabama baseball team posted a 35-28 The Alabama men’s golf team entered the The Alabama women’s golf team began the overall record and earned the school’s fourth 2011 season with high expectations. 2011 season as the No. 4 ranked team in the coun- straight and 22nd overall appearance in the The Tide entered the NCAA Championship try. NCAA Tournament. tournament as the third-seeded team in the With strong tournament play, the Crimson For the second straight year and 15th time in nation. They endured a tough third round Tide managed to climb to the top of the rank- school history, the Crimson Tide advanced to at the Karsten Creek Golf Club in Stillwater, ings and become the no. 1 team in the nation. a NCAA Regional championship game. Their Oklahoma to finish 14th in the NCAA Men’s The Tide fought hard to repeat as Southeastern season ended with an 11-1 loss to the Regional Championship. Conference champions, but was edged by in-state No. 1 seed and sixth-ranked Florida State. The Tide opened the tournament in third rival Auburn on the final day of the tournament. The Tide finished with a 14-16 record in con- place after the first round, but slid down to fifth After a stellar regular season, the Tide ference play. The Tide finished tied for sixth place after the second round. After a disastrous earned a no. 1 seed in the East Regional. The place overall in the SEC with Mississippi State third round which saw three of Alabama’s five Tide won the regional on its way to the NCAA and Auburn, and earned its seventh straight golfers shoot their season-worst scores, the Championships. They finished in eighth place at appearance in the SEC Tournament as the sev- Tide found themselves out of contention, fin- the NCAA Championships after an up and down enth seed overall. ishing 14th after the third round. tournament.
Crown Limousine
$LUSRUW7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ /,9,1*2))&$0386" *URXS7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ 6DYH7LPH 0RQH\E\-RLQLQJ2&$ (DUO\0RUQLQJ6HUYLFH ,WҋV1RW7RR/DWH7R-RLQ $YDLODEOH :HFDQKDYHGHSRVLWV 5DWHV6WDUWDW UHPRYHGIURP\RXUSRZHU 6HGDQV/LPRXVLQHV3DUW\ JDVDQGZDWHUELOOV %XVHV 7RMRLQUHQHZRUJHWPRUHLQIR JRWRZZZ%DPD2&$FRP &DOOXVQRZ WK$YHQXH Serving the University of Alabama for more than 40 years! 1RUWKSRUW$/