Issue 8

SpringHillian
The
Volume 85, Number 8
Mobile’s First Collegiate Newspaper
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam
Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2006
SOA protest and Fall Formal Elections results in
an unavoidable event conflict
Governor Elections:
Democratic -- 28
Republican -- 22
Alabama hot races:
CPB
Patrick Yursik/ Photographer
Facebook
(Left) Spring Hill community members marching in last
years’s SOA protest; (right) students dancing at one of
CPB’s annual formals.
By Audrey Beukenkamp
Contributing Writer
An unavoidable conflict this
semester, the annual Fall Formal
and the School of Americas Protest
are both scheduled for the weekend
of Nov. 17. With the Thanksgiving
holiday, three weekends remain
available for the scheduling of
student events before final exam
week, December 4-8. As Director
of Student Involvement on campus,
Jennifer Bishop, says, “There are
only so many weekends on the
calendar. We try to provide every
organization with the date of their
first choice. Many factors affect
whether this is a possibility, such as
if venues are available.” Director
of Campus Ministry, Maureen
Bergan, echoed her response.
Hosted by CPB, the Formal
will take place the evening of
Friday, Nov. 17. As a destination
unknown party, tickets will be
sold up to at least a week in
advance. Tickets have cost $7.
According to Jennifer Bishop,
tickets are priced to reimburse part
of the event’s cost, but in no way
do they cover the total expense
which includes the venue, a live
band, cash bar, and full service
catering. In years past, the Formal
has had a theme surrounding the
event. This year the CPB has
simply titled the event Fall Formal.
Attendance for the event has
see SOA page 2
Bob Riley (GOP) defeated Lucy Baxley (Dem) by
198,537 votes for Governor.
Jim Folsom (Dem) defeated Luther Strange (GOP)
by 20,508 votes for Lieutenant Governor.
U.S. Senate elections:
Democratic -- 51
Republican -- 49
U.S. House elections:
Democratic -- 233
Republican -- 202
(Compiled by: Jolie Pollard, Editor in chief)
Hallway trash cans might be removed from dorms
By Rae McConville
Contributing Writer
The Department of Housing has decided to place Dumpsters
behind Mobile and Toolen Halls as early as next spring.
According to Director of Residence life and Housing
Brent McPherson, he became aware of the trash build up in
the two dormitories after completing his assessment upon
the start of his position this year. “The whole situation,”
McPherson pointed out, “is still in the premature stages.” It
has yet to be decided if the trash cans in the hallways will be
completely removed, or if they will remain where they stand.
Other dorms on campus either already have
Dumpsters or have designated trash rooms, and
for the time being, their trash situations are settled.
The new Dumpsters will be used to contain broken down
boxes, and large pieces of trash that McPherson said clog the
cans. “The trash cans are overflowing and are an eyesore,”
McPherson explained. “They are also fire and safety hazard
according to Mobile County.” McPherson also expressed
how the overflowing piles of trash do not promote a positive
image of Spring Hill. “When prospective students come
into a freshman dorm, it’s unpleasant to see trash,” he said.
However, Toolen resident freshman Nick Rayburn
Opinion & Editorials
Read how some people
f eel abou t cigar ette fumes.
u
PAGE 11
differs with McPherson’s assessment of the situation,
“Earlier in the year the trashcans were overflowing, but now
they are not.” Rayburn added that the problem was rectified
when one more trashcan per floor was added. This was also
done in Mobile Hall. Rayburn continued to say that if the
trashcans do get taken away and replaced with a Dumpster
outside of Toolen, in his opinion, it will be a “bad idea. The
status quo is working just fine for now.” Fellow Toolen
resident Jim Love felt the hall cans “are a necessity.” He
also said he fears further problems will ensue because of the
see Trash cans page 2
Life & Culture
Find out who is like a
second mother in
C o m m u n i c a t i o n A r t s.
u
PAGE 4
News
Become aquainted with
n ex t w e e k ’s R i m e s a n d Po r t i e r
Lecturers
u
PAGE 3
News
Wednesday, November 8 , 2006 THE SPRINGHILLIAN
SOA
from page 1
ranged in the past at about 25 percent of the student body.
On the same weekend, Nov. 17-19, Campus Ministry’s
Student’s for Justice Organization hosted by Campus
Minister for Justice and Retreats, Sr. Patty Huffman, will
join activists in Columbus, GA for the annual SOA Protest.
Huffman said any student interested may attend.
The three day-long event begins with an Ignatian
Family Teach-In including lectures and prayer. Events
throughout the weekend include a rally and an outdoor
mass co-sponsored by Loyola-New Orleans and SHC.
The culmination of the weekend takes place Sunday just
outside the gates of the SOA. After a day-long protest including
a Justice Parade, music, and speakers, the evening completes
with a funeral procession in memory for those who have died.
This year SHC will contribute to the weekend events with a
musical liturgy presented by former Campus Ministry staff
member, Ken Weber. The cost of attending the SOA Protest
is $30. This includes transportation and accommodations.
For the past eight years, Campus Ministry has
organized trips to the SOA Protest held at the location of the
“Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation.”
The SOA was the Defense Department’s principal
Spanish-language training facility for Latin American
military and law-enforcement personnel (though some
civilians attend as well). Located at Fort Benning, GA,
the SOA was legally closed down in 2001. The school was
renamed and opened as WHINSEC in the same location.
Now the institute’s official purpose, according to the
official Web site of the Center for International Policy,
is “to provide professional education and training to
eligible personnel of nations of the Western Hemisphere
within the context of the democratic principles set forth
in the Charter of the Organization of American states[…
]while fostering mutual knowledge, transparency,
confidence, and human rights, and knowledge and
understanding of United States customs and traditions.”
Funding for the institute’s fixed costs is provided by
the Army’s operations and maintenance. Student tuition
costs are covered mainly by grants through the International
Trash cans
from page 1
2
Military Education and Training (IMET) and International
Narcotics Control (INC) programs. Courses focus on
leadership development, counter-drug operations, peace
support operations, disaster relief, or “any other matter
the Secretary [of Defense] deems appropriate.” Through a
complex bureaucracy, tax dollars contribute to the operation
of the WHINSEC, one of the reasons why some protest
However, students, actors, clergy, educators,
musicians and government officials have joined
the protest for more than financial causes.
According to the Web site of SOA Watch, an organization
that “seeks to close the SOA,” on Dec. 4, 1980, the bodies of
Maryknoll Sisters Maura Clark and Ita Ford, Ursuline Sister
Dorothy Kazel and lay missionary, Jean Donovan were
found in an unmarked grave in a field in El Salvador. The
grave had been opened in the presence of a U.S. Ambassador.
Three of the five officers later found responsible for
the rape and murder of these women were graduates of
the United States Army School of the Americas (SOA).
Over 900 men, women and children were massacred
on Dec. 11, 1981, in El Mazote, a small village in El
Salvador. Records revealed that out of 143 bodies identified
in the laboratory, 131 were children under the age of 12,
including three infants under the age of three months.
Ten of the twelve officers cited as responsible for the
El Mazote massacre were graduates of the SOA. They were
members of the Atlacatl Battalion, a part of the El Salvador
army. In San Salvador on Nov. 16, 1989, six Jesuit priests, their
housekeeper and her 15 year-old daughter, were slaughtered.
To get the facts about this incident, a U.S. congressional
investigation began, led by Representative Joseph Moakley.
A Jun. 28, 1996 Intelligence Oversight Board report said
that at SOA, “executions of guerrillas, extortion, physical
abuse, coercion, and false imprisonment” are condoned in
training materials. The SOA has not issued a public apology.
lasting peace and security we need a foreign policy that
reflects our values of justice, democracy and dignity.”
Defenders of the SOA and its successor; however, argue
that they do not teach abuse, and that today as in the past, the
curriculum includes human rights as a component of every class.
They also argue that no school should be held
accountable for the actions of only some of its graduates.
The title SOA is how the school is popularly referred
to by activists. The acronym, “School of Assassins.”
Initially established in Panama in 1946, the SOA
was removed from Panama in 1984 under the terms
of the Panama Canal Treaty.
Former Panamanian
President, Jorge Illueca, stated that the SOA was the
“biggest base for destabilization in Latin America.”
Over its 59 years, the SOA has trained over 60,
000 Latin American soldiers in counter insurgency
techniques, sniper training, commando and psychological
warfare, military intelligence and interrogation tactics.
Students can attend both events if so desired. Contact
Maureen Bergan at 380.3498 or Sr. Patty Huffman at
380.3496 in the office of Campus Ministry above the cafeteria.
Campus Ministry is willing to accommodate students who
would like to attend both events if there is enough interest.
For the campus community, the overlap of events on
the weekend of Nov. 17-19 is a non-issue. When asked
her opinion of Formal, Kristen Speeg, a sophomore on
campus said, “It feels like a high school event, but when I’ve
gone in the past it’s been fun.” As for the upperclassmen
on campus the focus was on promoting awareness
of events that organizations on campus are hosting.
Senior John Bennett stated, “As far as the Fall
Formal conflicting with the date of the SOA Protest, it’s
just a coincidence. People who have looked at the issue
thoroughly and who have spent time reflecting on it would
benefit from the trip. They should go with an open mind.”
Based on the above events, activists flock to Ft. Benning
for the anniversary of the six Jesuit priests, their housekeeper
and her daughter, and in honor of all those that have died.
The protest is headed by the Washington-based
SOA Watch. The founder, Fr. Roy Bourgeois, argues
that: “The SOA is part of a corporate- hijacked foreign
policy that’s making us a lot of enemies. If we want
Mary Owens added by stating that, “Political
awareness on the campus needs improvement. The social
dynamic is fine, but as far as developing critical political
skills, we’re lacking. More people vote for American
Idol than for the President. There is an intimidation
factor that exists with politics.” As for Fall Formal, she
said, “I went once, and I’m not a big fan of formals.”
Mobile Resident Assistant Devin Diedling said
he finds “the measure unnecessary,” and if the cans
do get removed, “will present many larger problems.”
Specific locations for the Dumpsters have not yet
been chosen because the best routes for truck pickups
have not been determined. McPherson said that he
realizes for some of the residents the change might
be a “hard adjustment;” however, he said, “Eventually
the students will
have more respect
and like where they
live a lot better.”
inconvenience, “Walking minute amounts of trash
out of the building will be a waste of time and
kids will start dumping it in the wrong places.”
Once the Dumpsters are in place, residences of
both Mobile and Toolen will have to carry
their trash out to the Dumpsters. Junior
Donovan Mulvey, who resides on the third
floor of Mobile Hall, said he doesn’t mind
walking the three flights of stairs to dispose his
trash if the Dumpsters are placed outside the
building. However, Mulvey noted that he is
sure that some residents on his floor are bound
to have their trash “piled up in the hallways.”
Gussie Altman, a sophomore who
lives on Mobile’s second floor, said if
the hall cans are removed, her “itty bitty
room trash will be the one overflowing.”
Altman also explained that Mobile’s trash
problem with is nothing compared to the
overflow she lived with last year, “The
cans are nothing like they were in Walsh.” Patrick Yursik/ Photographer
Outside Dumpsters may replace
hallway trash cans
in Mobile and
Toolen.
News
Historian
and coastal enviromental leader to lecture next week
3
The SpringHillian Wednesday, November 8, 2006
Dr. Brian Ward, Professor
and Chair of American Studies
at the University of Manchester,
will deliver the twenty-sixth
annual Portier lecture on Tuesday,
November 14, at 7:30 P.M. in
Bryne Memorial Hall at Spring
Hill College. His topic will be
“Get Back: The Beatles, Race,
Religion, and the American South.”
Professor Ward received his
B.A. in American Studies from
the University of East Anglia in
1984 and his Ph.D. in History
from the University of Cambridge
in 1995. From 1995-1996, he
held a postdoctoral fellowship at
the Carter G. Woodson Center
for African and Afro-American
Studies at the University of
Virginia. After teaching at
the University of Newcastle
upon Tyne, Dr. Ward joined the
University of Florida Department
of History in 2000 and served as
Chair of the History Department
from 2003-2005. He was named
University of Florida College of
Liberal Arts and Sciences Teacher
of the year in 2003. He became
Chair of American Studies at the
University of Manchester in the
fall of 2006.
Professor
Ward’s
main
research interests are in the history
of the modern American South,
the postwar African American
freedom struggle, and the history
of popular music and mass media
in America and the Atlantic
world. His award-winning books
include Radio and the Struggle for
Civil Rights in the South; Media,
Culture, and the Modern African
American Freedom Struggle; Just
My Soul Responding: Rhythm and
Blues, Black Consciousness and
Race Relations; and (co-editor)
The Making of Martin Luther King
and the Civil Rights Movement.
The History Department
invites the Spring Hill community
to the lecture. The Spring Hill
College Physics Department will
host the annual Rimes Lecture
at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov.
16, in Byrne Memorial Hall on
the college campus. Dr. Susan
Rees will present “Restoring
the Gulf Coast: Balancing Our
Knowledge of Coastal Risk with
the Desire to Maintain Community
Heritage
and
Uniqueness”
(Submitted by:
Professor and Chair of History
Department Dr. Patricia Harrison)
***
The Spring Hill College
Physics Department will host
the annual Rimes Lecture at
7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16,
in Byrne Memorial Hall on the
college campus. Dr. Susan Rees
will present “Restoring the Gulf
Coast: Balancing Our Knowledge
of Coastal Risk with the Desire to
Maintain Community Heritage and
Uniqueness” Rees is in charge of the
recovery effort of the Mississippi
Gulf Coast following Hurricane
Katrina. She serves as program
manager for the Mississippi
Coastal Improvements Program
and the Coastal Environment
team leader for
the Mobile District, Planning
and Environmental Division. As
program manager, she oversees
a $10 million congressionally
authorized study to recommend
projects in coastal Mississippi
to provide hurricane and storm
damage reduction, fish and
wildlife preservation, prevention
of shoreline erosion, restoration of
freshwater flows and prevention of
salt water intrusion, and any other
water resource related projects.
As Coastal Environment team
leader, her major responsibilities
include overseeing environmental
compliance and environmental
restoration for civil works
activities in the panhandle of
Florida, coastal Alabama and
coastal Mississippi; for military
activities within the 50 states and
Central and South America; and
for Support for Others activities in
the district area of responsibility.
The Rimes Lecture was
created to honor the Rev. William
J. Rimes, S.J., who dedicated
more than 30 years to Spring Hill
College as a student, professor
and college president. The
biology building, Yancey Hall,
and the chemistry building,
Diegnan Hall, were constructed
while Rimes was president.
To RSVP for the lecture or for
more information or directions, call
the Spring Hill College Division
of Sciences at (251) 380-3070.
(A press release from
Communications and Marketing
Department at Spring Hill
College)
Public Safety
Reports
Compiled by James B. Crosby
Director of Public Safety and Security
On Thursday, Public Safety
notified a student that their
vehicle had been found
with the front passenger’s
window
broken
out.
The vehicle was parked in
the Viragh parking lot. Upon
LIFE&
Wednesday, November 8, 2006 The SpringHillian
4
CULTURE
I’m not looking Secretary Dottie Hempfleng has worked
for 30 years, becoming a ‘second mother’
for Geico, and
I didn’t want a
gecko on my bed
Lindsay Mott
Editor emeritus
By Sara Miller
Life and Culture Editor
As I opened the door to my room Monday night, I discovered an intruder sitting
comfortably on my bed. My untimely arrival did not phase him; he simply moved a bit
to rest his arm comfortably on my pillow,
his beady eye turned on me as if I were the
nuisance for wrecking the impromptu party
he was throwing. He flicked his tail a few
times in apparent frustration before I was
able to catch him in a cup and take him to
his proper home outside.
I was not pleased to see this unwelcome visitor, who I learned was a Mediterranean House Gecko after a quick Google
search of “reptiles of Alabama.” I’ve seen
one of his friends in my room before, after a rainstorm similar to the one that came
Monday evening. Luckily, this gecko was
much more lethargic than the one that previously visited, who I had to chase around
my room for approximately 5 to 10 minutes before he involuntarily embarked for
the great outdoors using the O’Leary Hall
Cup Transportation System (OLHCTS…we
need to get a name with more catchy initials). This particular gecko didn’t even
make an effort to run away; either my pillow was too comfortable to leave behind,
or the gecko was paralyzed in fear of my
awesome power and majesty. Yeah, I’ll go
with the former.
I should probably be wondering how
geckos are entering my room, but I don’t
really care as long as they stay away from
my bed. As I jinxed myself by telling my
friends at dinner, I’d rather have a lizard in
my room than a bug. I’d just like to avoid
the potential weird looks from my hallmates who may see me washing my sheets
and pillow while mumbling about intruders.
for advertising money and check requests so the editor
of the SpringHillian and those that pick it up can get
paid on time. She sorts the mail, answers the phones,
makes copies and orders books for each new semesIsn’t it interesting that your mother always knows ter for the teachers. “Anything they ask me to do, if
where something is when you ask her? The same holds I can possibly do it, I’ll do it,” she said. She only
true for the named “second mother” of students in the takes a half-hour for lunch, except on Tuesdays, when
Communication Arts Department. This knowing where she meets the other secretaries in the cafeteria. She is
everything is in addition to keeping track of schedules, also responsible for keeping up with the equipment.
buying stuff the department needs, and keeping the She feels that one of the major differences between
place organized are just a few of the motherly traits Communication Arts and the other departments is that
found in communication arts division secretary Dottie “other departments don’t have the diversity of…things
Hempfleng.
you have to order and equipment.” There are cameras,
These mother-like qualities that Ms. Dottie por- video cameras, film, a dark room, and an editing room
trays to the students may have something to do with that all have to be kept up with.
the good relationship among the Communication Arts
With all the work she has to do, Ms. Dottie said
faculty. She says they all get along and they have even that she is very thankful for her work-study students.
begun to treat each other like a family. “We just have “I have excellent work-study, and I could not do withlike a family-type relationship. We tell one another out them. They are fantastic and I really appreciate
what we think now and it works best that way.” Dr. them.” Since many of them have been there for at
Doug James calls her Sister Dorothy, “because I keep least three years, they help her get everything done
behind him so much and have to have everything like and run errands across campus.
it should be.” One day he just
Another big part of Ms. Dotcalled her that and the name
tie’s job is being somewhat of a
stuck. She loves the dynamic
personal assistant to Mr. Loehr.
among the faculty members,
She keeps up with his schedule,
and she is thankful for how easy
keeps him organized, and orders
they are to work with. “I’ve
what he needs. Even though she
always had excellent faculty.
works for all the faculty memThey are very pleasant to work
bers in the department, “He is
for and that certainly means a
division chair, so my work for
lot to me,” she said.
him has priority.” This writer
For Ms. Dottie, the journey
has also recognized that many
toward this family relationquestions asked of Mr. Loehr
ship began thirty years ago.
are often answered with, “Ask
She had taken 11 years off of
Ms. Dottie.” Loehr said, “She
work to raise her children but
is just indispensable. I depend
Patrick Yursik/ Photographer
was looking to go back to work
on her a great deal for keeping
when she talked with the then Ms. Dottie Hempfleng, communication arts
my head above water. I would
secretary of the English Depart- secretary and “second mother.”
be lost without her.” Loehr also
ment. She applied for the job
recognizes that she is this way
and the current archivist Dr. Charles Boyle and theol- with the other faculty members. He said that she is
ogy professor Dr. Mel Brandon hired her. She worked “very concerned for people.”
part-time for a few years and then started working
This concern shows in the way she treats the stufull-time.
dents. Senior work-study Patrick Box calls her his
Her days begin around 9 a.m., when she comes to “second mom,” and she will give him directions for
work and clocks in. She always checks her calendar places in Mobile. She will do whatever she can for
first to see what needs to be done. She checks division the students if they need something. “I like to be of
chair Tom Loehr ’s calendar to know what he needs to service to them, if they need anything. I try to please
do that day. He said she will put his appointments on them the best I can.” Being around the students is one
her calendar and leave notes on his door to remind of the best parts of her day. “I love the students. I
him. “She is always one step ahead,” he said. She wouldn’t like my job if I didn’t have student contact,”
then sets to work doing whatever is needed that day.
she said.
It was hard for her to give a specific description of
Her motto, to treat others as she would like to be
a day because she ends up doing all sorts of things in treated, causes her to do as much as she can for the
a day. “No day is the same,” she said. “I have a lot of faculty and students. She takes care of everything
different work that I do.” She types up purchase or- whether she is asked to or not and this creates a good
ders and work orders. She orders supplies for the of- work environment for her and the rest of the faculty.
fice, including paper and ink cartridges. She also or- Her motherly concern and quickness to help causes
ders supplies for the SpringHillian staff and anything students to turn to her for help. And, in her building,
the faculty members need. She turns in check requests she probably knows where everything is.
5
The SpringHillian Wednesday, November 8, 2006
LIFE &
CULTURE
A small miracle Honduran student compares home to SHC
By Adam Ganucheau
Contributing writer
By Doug Bruce
Columnist
I had every intention of writing to
you this week about something trivial,
but recently I had a startling revelation.
Last Thursday evening, as I was bumping along with a friend in their car, I
witnessed an automobile accident literally come within millimeters of actually occurring. Besides burning rubber
and modernly under-appreciated power
steering and anti-lock brakes, only one
thing stopped this collision: a small
miracle.
Now, without trying to sound selfgratifying, as an outdoor emergency
care technician, I’ve seen a few, but far
too many accidents, and I have to say
that this one would have been gruesome.
As it pertains to the intervention, I have
no idea physically what stopped this car
vs. SUV catastrophe other than God.
Wait, before you roll your eyes and
turn the page, please allow me to explain that the only reason I am writing
about this is because with only rational
thought, this occurrence is improbable.
Furthermore, as we passed the scene,
I had an entirely new feeling: one of
blessing and a feeling of a fresh perspective on life and the moments we
take for granted.
Later that evening, I attended a
Praise and Worship service and was
similarly moved. I’m not saying I had
an extraordinary change in my life, but
it did ground me a bit. I took an hour
to sit, reflect, pray and observe. Maybe
I benefited from seeing this near-accident as much as the passengers in that
vehicle, who were leaving the Spring
Hill Campus. Kumbaya.
Remember to
d r i v e s a f e l y.
Why count on
a miracle when
you could leave
the cell phone
off and buckle
your seatbelt?
friends play a crucial role in his extreme hobbies. “I do
those things with people I trust.”
The people he trusts starts with his family. Growing
up,
Lopez’s parents have always worked with the U.S.
Funny. Intelligent, but also a little shy sometimes.
Embassy
in Honduras. His dad served in the army, and
These are a few words that Daniel Lopez uses to de“Honduras
was always dependent on the United States
scribe himself. His family and friends would agree, but
for
things
like
military aide and support. There’s a lot
it’s a little difficult getting in touch with them: they’re
of
Americans
and
a lot of American companies.” Lopez
all in Honduras.
decided
to
come
to
the United States because “it’s the
Lopez, 18, sits in his room in Toolen Hall. It’s
thing
to
do,
to
study
abroad, instead of staying there.”
chilly, and he wears an American Eagle jacket over his
Of
all
the
colleges
and
universties in the United States,
striped, collared shirt. His glasses rest comfortably on
how
did
Lopez
pick
Spring
Hill College? Lopez exhis nose, and he smirks from time to time. A guest sits
plains
that
his
aunt
married
an American, and they
across from him, and they begin talking. His English
moved
to
Mobile.
His cousin graduated
isn’t perfect, but his helpfulness shines when
from
Spring
Hill
in
2001.
“I came to Preoffering his guest help in Spanish if he needs
view,
and
loved
it.
I
preferred
over my
it. Spanish is, after all, the official language
other
choices,
like
Maryhurst.”
Located
of his home country.
in
Pennsilvania,
Maryhurst
is
too
cold
Lopez comes to Spring Hill as the oldfor
Lopez’s
tastes.
With
the
recent
cold
est of three boys; he has two older sisters,
weather, Lopez admits that he might have
from his father ’s previous marriage. He adto buy a new jacket. Spring Hill was the
mits, though, that he “doesn’t see them since
best fit for him; “my graduating class had
they live with their mom.” The Lopez famnine people, so coming from that kind of
ily seems to be one built on caring support.
class was perfect. This is where I want
Lopez says that in his family, “We take care
to go.”
of each other. When something is wrong, evHowever, coming to Spring Hill
erybody knows about it, and we don’t hide
meant
leaving his family and friends
anything.”
in
Honduras.
The moving process was
He says he treats his friends in the same
“tough”
for
Lopez.
He had to leave some
way as his family – caring and helpful. Loof
his
“goodies,”
as
he called them, back
pez tells his guest that he really enjoys bePatrick
Yursik/
Photographer
home;
he
didn’t
bring
his computer, his
ing supportive. “The thing I like the most is
friends,
and
some
of
his
clothes. “I could
hanging out with my friends. I’m trying to Daniel Lopez
only
carry
two
baggage.
There’s a whole
help them out, ya know, making their lives comes to Spring
bunch
of
stuff,
like
a
microwave,
that I
a little much better.” He laughs often, and
Hill from Honduras.
had
to
bought
it
here.”
Lopez
also
has
to
smiles while talking about his friends and
deal
with
the
“pain
of
not
seeing
family
family back home.
“Home” is Honduras, the second largest country in during special holidays, like Thanksgiving.” He tells
Central America -- about the size of the state of Louisi- his guest that he’s working on heading home for Christana. Lopez comes from a country that is predominantly mas. Even though a straight flight would be eight hours,
Roman Catholic, yet he reveals that the laws aren’t re- Lopez explains that it takes a couple days, with a layally enforced. When asked what Honduras is like, Lopez over in either Miami or Houston.
Certainly, Lopez admits that there are differences
describes it as similar to the United States, but having
between
the United States and Honduras. One thing
“streets with a whole bunch of potholes.” He laughs
that
the
States
has an upper hand on: “girls.” “Girls
again, but goes on. “There’s not that many laws, so
back
home
are
pretty,
but here it’s easier to hook up.”
you can practically break everything you want to do.”
His
guest
gives
a
puzzling
look, but Lopez explains that
His guest is taken aback. Lopez adds: “Except killing
in
Honduras,
it
takes
longer
to get a girlfriend. “Back
people. If you kill someone, you’re probably gonna go
home,
you
had
to
know
their
friends, and their friends
to jail or get caught.” He warns that “you better watch
introduce
them
to
you.
Here,
they want to know you.
who you’re with.” He says, “You need to make your
They
talk
to
you,
and
they
probably
come to you instead
own close friends, because there’s people that do drugs,
of
going
to
them.”
He
admits
that
there
are a few girls
money laundering and really bad stuff, so you need to
here
with
whom
he
has
been
romantically
involved, but
watch out who you hang out with and where you go.”
nothing
serious.
“Just
dating,
but
that’s
just
me.” He
But lawlessness is not in the cards for Lopez and
smiles
and
laughs
again.
Where
does
Honduras
have the
his friends. Lopez goes on to explain to his guest that
upper
hand?
“Parties,”
Lopez
replies.
“Parties
here:
you
“there’s a lot to do in Honduras.” Believe it or not,
go
there,
you
drink,
and
you
get
wasted,
and
that’s
it.
Honduras offers a lot of extreme sports. One of Lopez’s
There’s
nothing
fun
in
it,
but
back
home,
you
go
dancfavorites is canopy. He sits up and smiles as he explains
what canopy is. “Basically, you’re on a harness, then ing, you goof off, you meet people. You drink a little
you’re attached to a line, and you go through the trees bit, but you drink at your own level, and people are not
on the line.” He adds that it’s very fast. The fastest one pushy to drink more or get wasted. That’s the point of
can go is 60 mph. Lopez’s guest is astonished. Lopez the party here: to get wasted.” Lopez states that parties
tells his guest that he’s not lying. “If you go that fast, here are shorter, and that in Honduras, if you look 18,
you need about a mile to brake.” Braking is simply plac- you can buy a drink or get in. His family, Lopez says,
ing your gloved hand on the line. “You need to know is more relaxed about drinking and even offered him adhow to break.” From his appearance, Lopez wouldn’t vice: “Eat something before, and don’t slam it.”
So far, Lopez says he’s glad he’s come to Spring Hill.
seem the type of guy who rides through a jungle, goes
His
new friends here are learning what his friends and
rafting, canoeing, and parachuting. His mild-manner
family
in Honduras already know: that he’s funny and
exterior hides the wild side within. Lopez admits, that
intelligent,
but also a little shy.
“once you get to know me, you see.” He adds that his
LIFE &
Wednesday, November 8, 2006 The SpringHillian
CULTURE
6
Spring Hill students dance for miracles and photographs
Patrick Yursik / Photographer
The “Spicy Girls” Delta Gamma team shook it like a salt shaker during their choreographed routine, complete with DG salt shakers.
T h e ‘ Ho r r o r’s c o p e s
Aries (3/21-4/19)
A woman wearing a brightly-colored dress
with a pattern of random objects on it invites you to take a field trip with her class.
A child wearing glasses and a striped shirt
warns you that it’s not normal, but you go
along anyway. Who needs normal?
Taurus (4/20-5/20)
Patrick Yursik / Photographer
Team Weather Girls danced to “It’s Raining Men,” complete with
umbrellas and some gentlemen from the crowd.
First, the weather started acting weird.
Then, a tsunami took you to some strange
new location. Now, a digital monster is
following you around, but the worst part
is that you are being forced to listen to
some extremely obnoxious music.
Gemini (5/21-6/21)
Whatever you do, don’t let your dad decide which way to drive. You could end up
falling through a crack in the earth during an earthquake, and getting trapped in
the distant past with dinosaurs and some
weird furry creature.
Cancer (6/22-7/22)
You encounter an anthropomorphic cat
with bright red hair, yellow body fur, and
an obnoxiously large sword. He claims
that he Lord of the Thundercats, and since
letting the cats take over campus is better than letting the raccoons take over, you
offer him a large glass of milk and welcome him to our planet.
Leo (7/23-8/22)
Kel visits you this week, for he has heard
that you have orange soda in your room,
and who loves orange soda? It’s true, Kel
does. You will be forced to get a new bottle of it after he kisses it, then drinks all
of the soda.
Virgo (8/23-9/22)
Patrick Yursik / Photographer
The Tri Delta team wowed the crowd with their rendition of the
Evolution of Dance, starting with the twist and dancing through the
eras to the shoulder lean.
Your dreams will come true this week as a
cloud that looks like a longneck leads you
to the Great Valley. Just hold on together
as you and your friends pass the mountains that burn, and you’ll find happiness
when you least expect it.
Libra (9/23-10/22)
An obnoxious boy clad in green invades
your domain while searching for two Triforces (he can’t count), shouting things
like “Well, excuse me, princess!” when he
doesn’t get his way. Luckily, you are able
to scare him off by threatening to post pictures all over the Internet of him wearing
a pink outfit with blue boots.
Scorpio (10/23-11/21)
The good news: someone will declare their
undying love for you this week. The bad
news: that someone is a purple dinosaur
who says things like “super-dee-duper!”
and has a smile that resembles the Burger
King’s grin.
Sagittarius (11/22-12/21)
A dying alien gives you a cube that grants
you the power to morph into any animal
you touch for a certain amount of time.
This is a great power, as long as you do
not let a slug infest your brain or sign a
deal for a television show.
Capricorn (12/22-1/19)
You will get a promotion this week as
you are asked to chase an international
criminal. Unfortunately, that international
criminal’s name is Carmen Sandiego, and
no one seems to know where she is.
Aquarius (1/20-2/18)
After failing as a grafitti artist, you befriend an orca who just wants to be free.
At least, that’s what you figure after you
realize he’s bored enough to listen to you
play the harmonica without killing you.
Teach him how to jump over a rock wall,
and everything will turn out for the best.
Pisces (2/19-3/20)
The good news: your rainforest is peaceful
and prosperous. The bad news: humans are
headed your way, and their tree-cutting
machine has been possessed by the spirit
of destruction. You need to help the seeds
grow to stop this monster.
7
LIFE &
The SpringHillian Wednesday, November 8, 2006
CULTURE
A letter to my drunk self An ‘arrae’ of style: winter shoes
from my hungover self
By Matt Blythe
Columnist
Dear Matt,
It seemed appropriate that I take some time to write you a letter about
what’s happened last night and what’s been happening today. I think there
was a Calvin and Hobbes strip along similar lines, actually, which just makes
this cooler. I’m very envious of you—my future self—right now, because
you will most likely have the ability to sit upright for more than ten minutes
at a time, and the ability to drink water and eat food without it making you
violently ill.
So, how about that party last night, huh?
Looking back on it from my own perspective, I can’t help but look at that
“Saints and Sinners” thing as if it were a modern-day Altamont: one long
bad trip, a bad vibe. But I know that the only reason I am thinking like that
is because I’ve never felt as sick as I do right now, and I am thus looking
at the past through green-tinted glasses. I know that he was having an awesome time; I know this because he still exists in me somewhere, a terrible
stain on my soul that I’ll never be able to get rid of, like Original Sin.
He was Icarus, soaring higher and higher until his wings melted from the
heat of the sun. He was having a great night, was flying, and he fell into
the water just in time to become me. Thoughtless bastard, never considered
those of us who would have to live through the fallout of his actions.
Hate is a strange thing. I mean, it’s easy for me to say that I hate a particular person—I use superlative terms like that all the time. But as soon
as someone calls me on it, as soon as I actually think about what that word
really means, usually I find that I don’t exactly hate the person in question,
that I use “hate” simply because it’s easier than describing, in qualifier-intensive detail, the full scope and depth of my feelings.
That said, I can say with absolute certainty that I. HATE. HIM. The
fire of my animosity sears everything it touches like the air escaping from
a freshly-opened bag of microwave popcorn. Was that really me doing all
those things? I feel about as much connection to the guy I was last night—
jumping around as if possessed, high-fiving or hugging everyone he saw—as
I do to that chubby little baby I see in my family’s old home movies: they’re
in my brain somewhere, have left little traces in my personality, but they
don’t feel like me. If he really was a different person, well, then I hate him.
If he really is just me and all this is just a stupid literary device to keep me
from taking responsibility for my own actions, well, then I hate myself for
bringing this upon us.
Hold on for a sec, I need to go throw up again.
Ahem, now where were we?
Right, so here we are, and I would definitely take it as a personal favor
if you would make it a point to never, ever let this happen again. I’m trying
to think of the future.
The vividness of all this will fade. In a week, a month, a year, you’ll
have forgotten what it’s like to be in such a sad state. All that will be left
will be an embarrassing story and a sort of vague, objective knowledge that
you were very, very ill. But when you’re well, it’s hard to envision what it’s
like to be sick. Conversely, I am already having a hard time imagining that
I was ever able to eat Mexican food; feeling as crappy as I do now, how did
I ever manage to stomach a burrito from Chipotle with rice and beans and
sour cream and that sauce they put on it that tastes so good?
I’ve been victimized by my past self, and all I can try to do is try to
impress upon you—before I become you—that we never copy his Bad Life
Decisions (BLD’s) ever again.
Love,
Matt
By Rae McConville
Fashion columnist/Assistant editor
I am a woman of my word, so I meant it when I said that I would cover what
my readers wanted. The people have spoken, and winter shoes this column
shall discuss.
Ladies, the colder and (as I write) rainier Mobile gets, the harder it becomes to decide the right pair of protection and cuteness. Basically the three
pairs you need this winter are a killer pair of boots, a commanding flat, and
something platform.
The possibilities for boots this season are endless. Whether fur, motorcycle, riding, bootie, or over the knee, there is a perfect pair out there for each
of us. My dream boots this season are a pair of Gucci 85th Anniversary brown
leather riding boots, $925 at their Web site, gucci.com. However for the time
being, I am going to have to settle for a much less pricey and suede option, the
Isaac Mizrahi Chiara Extended Calf boots in stone, $36.99 at Target.
Another boot favorite is the UGG. Now I
do not own a pair of these, nor am I a big fan,
but knowing how well loved they are here at
Spring Hill, I decided to take a gander at the
new collection. The UGG Australia Locarno,
$225 at uggastralia.com, are bomber jacket inspired lovelies that may finally turn me into
an UGG appreciator. The proper way to flaunt
these shearling staples is either with pants or
a skirt with tights, not just a mini alone. Another shearling option is the Sperry After Sail
Keelan, $120 at sperrytopsider.com. The water-resistant suede comes in a slew of colors
and also fashions them into a stylish pair of
Clockwise from left: Gucci
galoshes.
boots, Sam Edelman flats, J
Another pair of must have shoes this winter is a foot pleasing flat. Pointy or round toe, Shoes roll boot, and Chinese
a great pair of ground skimming flats makes Laundry platforms.
any dress or jeans/shirt combo stand out. My
favorite is a preppy staple, a simple twist on the classic Sperry boat shoe, the
new Ballet Moc, $59.95 at sperrytopsider.com. Another great option which
is sedated enough for class is the Suede Twist ballet flat, $39.50 at Gap. For
evening, be ferocious in the animal print lovelies: Sam Edelman “Addie” flats,
$98 at bloomingdales.com
The final pair of winter wonderful shoes is a jaw-dropping pair of sky-high
platforms. The great thing about platforms, besides their enormous versatility (they are literally appropriate for all occasions), is their comfort level.
Because most of the foot hits the ground at the same time, these heels are
much more comfortable than regular stilettos. Try Chinese Laundry’s Falcon
platforms, $79 at chineselaundry.com; they will spice up any great jean and
blazer ensemble in either mustard or stone. A dressier option is the cute and
very ladylike Betty polka-dot peep toes, $38 at torrid.com. Payless is currently
having a 30 percent off sale, making their adorable and (much) cheaper version
of the pair by Jessica Simpson, the “Jessica” round toe pumps, $16.99.
Gentlemen, don’t think I am forgetting about you. I know for many of you
Clarks Wallabies are an all year round option; however, it’s time to upgrade to
a more grown up version, the J Shoes Roll Boot, $125 at nordstrom.com. They
look and feel a lot like the classic; however, they can be casual or dressy and
look much better in the deep brown leather.
A lot of these styles I found online, and the best part about shoes is that
they are hard to mess up fit wise, so online purchasing is really easy. Some of
my favorite sites are neimanmarcus.com, zappos.com, and of course ebay.com.
It’s getting cold Spring Hill; bundle up, and load up on winter shoes!
8
LIFE&
The SpringHillian Wednesday, November 8, 2006
CULTURE
Raccoon daytime sightings increase on campus
Anne Standley
Contributing Writer
Spring Hill is known as home
of the badgers, but lately we’ve
been seeing some other critters
around campus. I’m talking about
raccoons. At first thought, this isn’t
such an odd thing since raccoons
are fairly common. The thing
about these Spring Hill raccoons
is that they’ve been sighted during
the day on numerous occasions.
Which poses the question: Why?
Raccoons are nocturnal (active
only at night). According to www.
outdooralabama.com, their “front
feet have long, thin flexible fingers
that are opposable to some degree
and are very sensitive to touch. They
have the capability of grasping or
holding onto food or other objects.”
They are omnivores and have been Raccoons are solitary except when
known to dunk their food in water they breed or are caring for their
before eating. Researchers say that young. They have the ability to climb
cleaning isn’t the purpose since any size tree and come down backward
many raccoons
or forward. They
engage
in
run and swim.
dousing motions
Sometimes,
when
water
during
cold
isn’t
around.
spells, raccoons
They’re
will sleep for
known
to
days, maybe a
carry
several
month, but the
diseases
such
species doesn’t
as roundworm,
hibernate. They
c a n i n e
store fat so, if
distemper,
food is sparse,
and rabies. Dr.
they are able to
Don Culberson
go the whole
advises, “Never
winter without
try to interact
eating.
Their
with
them willowbrookwildlife.org
diet (in the wild)
up
close...”
typically consists
Raccoons have been fearless around
of berries, nuts,
campus lately
grasshoppers, deer mice, squirrels
or other small animals. If in the
city, they’ll climb into garbage cans
for food. “…They are smart and
opportunistic,” Dr. Culberson said.
Ellen Lursen of Mobile
Animal Control warns, “While they
are cute, they are wild animals and
should never come into contact
with humans.” When asked why
SHC raccoons aren’t panicky
around students and faculty she
said, “If people feed them, or if
food is available, they will lose their
fear of humans and they will bite.”
Mystery solved! Our raccoons
weren’t coming out because of the
full moon or Halloween, it’s simply
because they love the food we leave
out for them. Dr. Culberson is a little
more apprehensive, “If one showed
up in my dorm room, I would
call someone else to remove it!”
The
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*
Friday, 1 December
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Monday, 4 December
Tuesday, 5 December
Wednesday, 6 December
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Friday, 8 December
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Tuesday, 12 December
Thursday, 21 December
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Tuesday, 2 January
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Thursday, 4 January
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the 1 December (Wilkins Classroom open 24 hours/day):
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be closed during this entire period.
(Wilkins Classroom resumes 24/7
schedule)
*7:30am-midnight (regular hours)
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LIFE &
Wednesday, November 8, 2006 The SpringHillian
CULTURE
9
Tour of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ visits Mobile Civic Center
By Sara Miller
Life and Culture Editor
A crowd of people, young and old, gathered at
the Mobile Civic Center on Tuesday night to watch
a 63-year-old movie star perform his most wellknown role.
Ted Neeley, who earned a Golden Globe nomination for his portrayal of Jesus in the 1973 movie
“Jesus Christ Superstar,” came to Mobile with the
most recent national tour of “Jesus Christ Superstar,” the musical from Andrew Lloyd Webber and
Tim Rice, on which the movie is based on. The story follows the last days of Jesus’ life, focusing on
the humanity and struggles of both Jesus and Judas,
the disciple-turned-traitor.
Despite being twice the age that Jesus would
have historically been, Neeley provided great emotional and vocal range that showed he could still
play Jesus, and play him amazingly well. His most
notable scene was “Gethsemane,” in which Jesus
stands alone, questioning God about the path he is
on and what good he will end up doing in the end.
Finally, after God shocks some sense into him with
a mighty flash of “lightning” and roll of “thunder”,
he sings “God thy will is hard/But you hold every
card/I will drink your cup of poison/Nail me to your
cross and break me/Bleed me, beat me/Kill me, take
me now/Before I change my mind.”
It was a powerful moment in the play that could
not have worked without a vocal range like Neeley’s. The part commanded at times an extremely
high falsetto, and at other times a low tenor range.
Neeley hit all the notes without appearing to try at
all.
Neeley’s voice was not the only one that carried
the production. Another great singer was Corey
Glover, whose portrayal of Judas was his national
tour debut. However, he was not a stranger to the
rock genre like the music of “Jesus Christ Super-
star”; Glover is the lead singer of the Grammy winning rock band Living Colour. His rock star roots
were apparent as he danced across the stage during
the signature song “Jesus Christ Superstar”, looking as if he was in his element and enjoying every
minute of it. The best display of his vocal abilities was in the opening number, “Heaven on Their
Minds,” in which Judas reflects on how things were
in the beginning of Jesus’ ministry and how times
have, in his opinion, taken a turn for the worse. I
was not familiar with Glover or his work before I
attended the production, but now I want to purchase
his band’s CDs so that I can listen to his voice all
the time, and I will certainly be watching for any
news about his continuing musical career.
Other than the talented vocal cast, the most notable thing about this particular production of “Jesus Christ Superstar” were the lighting and colors.
When things were going well for Jesus and his disciples, such as when Jesus entered Jerusalem during
“Hosanna”, bright colors on the stage indicated the
happy mood. When Judas battled conflicted emotions as he made the deal with Caiaphas the high
priest that earned him 30 pieces of silver and Jesus a betrayal, the entire stage was lit with various
shades of blood red. When it was nighttime, a black
backdrop was lit with shining yellow “stars”. The
already stellar acting and singing of the cast was
complemented well by these changes in the lighting
and colors. “Jesus Christ Superstar” with Ted Neeley and
Corey Glover was a wonderful way to spend a
Tuesday evening. Unfortunately, the show only ran
for one night in Mobile, so if you wish to see this
production, you should plan a visit to a relative that
lives near one of the touring sites, which are listed
on the Web site thejcstour.com. Better yet, invite
that relative to see the production with you. If you
are a fan of musical theatre, rock music, and the
story of Jesus, you will be glad you went.
C a l e n d a r
Date
Details
o f
Time
thejcstour.com
63-year-old Ted Neeley performs “Gethsemane”
in the national tour of “Jesus Christ Superstar”.
The tour, which also stars Corey Glover as Judas,
came to the Mobile Civic Center for one showing on
Tuesday, Nov. 7. According to thejcstour.com, the
tour will continue in various cities through June of
2007.
E v e n t s
Location
Wednesday, Nov. 8
CPB Meeting
5:15 p.m.
Grill Room
Thursday, Nov. 9
Discussion: “The Taming of the
Shrew”
6:30 p.m.
Mobile Public Library
Moorer/Spring Hill Branch
(4 S. McGregor Ave.)
“Rosencrantz and Guildenstern
are Dead”
8 p.m.
Arlene Mitchell Theatre
Friday, Nov. 10 through Sunday,
Nov. 12
“How the Other Half Loves”
Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.
Sunday matinee at 2 p.m.
Joe Jefferson Playhouse
(11 S. Carlen St.)
Saturday, Nov. 11
S.H.O.R.E.S. Dolphin-Watching
Trip
www.mplonline.org
Thursday, Nov. 9 through Sunday,
Nov. 12
A play by Tom Stoppard
Admission: $5
Saturday, Nov. 11
A comedy by Alan Ayckbourn
Student Admission: $10
E-mail Niccole Van Hoey at
[email protected] for
details
“Beethoven and Blue Jeans: The 8 p.m.
Creation of the World”
Annual casual concert of the Mobile
Symphony Orchestra
Tickets are $15-50
(www.mobilesymphony.org)
Orange Beach
Saenger Theatre
(6 S. Joachim St.)
10
The SpringHillian Wednesday, November 8, 2006
Opinions&
Editorials
SpringHillian Note from the editor: Protesting has its requirements
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam
Mobile’s First
Collegiate Newspaper
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: (251) 380-3850
or 380-3840
FAX: (251) 460-2185
Editor in Chief
Jolie Pollard
jlpollard@ stumail.shc.edu
News Editor
Kerrie McNamara
[email protected]
Life & Culture Editor
Sara Miller
smmiller@ stumail.shc.edu
Sports Editor
Katelyn Olewinski
[email protected]
Photographer/Assistant Editor
Patrick Yursik
[email protected]
Assistant Editor/
Student Reaction Editor
Alicia Brauer
[email protected]
By Jolie Pollard
Editor in chief
Just like many people
here, I didn’t know much
about the School of the
Americas, or to be accurate,
the Western Hemisphere
Institute
for
Security
Cooperation. So I have been
researching, and yes, there
are concerns to be addressed
here. Some graduates of
this military college have
committed some heinous
crimes in Latin America,
and that is very unfortunate.
What is more sad is how
long people have been
addressing their concerns
about the combat school and
their efforts seem unfruitful,
as well as the likelihood
that because no one is being
hurt in the United States,
people don’t feel the issues
are worthy of much concern
I am not going to the
protest. I have to admit that I
feel a little guilty for making
that decision, but I’m not
really sure why; even more
of sign why I shouldn’t go.
It wouldn’t be right for me to
be there because I have not
fulfilled the requirements to
be an effective demonstrator.
Firstly, one should be
very knowledgeable about
the issues at hand and
secondly, must have a fixed
position. If not, the person
becomes a pawn for the
organization and cannot
represent the group well.
While browsing through
the SOA Watch Web site, I
came across a news article
where
several
student
protestors were interviewed.
Two were past Spring
Hill students, and luckily,
they answered well.
Of
course, SOAW would not
want to include ignorant
comments on their site right?
I participated in a protest
two years ago, and I had
been following the issue for
months, reading the papers
and watching the news. When
the time for protesting came
around, I was ready, and
confident about my stance.
Being someone’s pawn was
not I wanted, and it annoyed
me greatly when I watched
the evening news and saw
people being interviewed
who obviously had no idea
what they were fighting for.
One stupid answer could
really degrade an entire
Assistant Editor/
Fashion Columnist
Rae McConville
[email protected]
Advertising Manager/
Editor Emeritus
Lindsay Mott
[email protected]
Advisor
Stuart Babington
sbabington@ stumail.shc.edu
Publisher
Rankin Publishing
7401 Spencer Rd
Irvington, Al 36544
The
SpringHillian
The SpringHillian needs an EDITOR IN CHIEF for the Spring 2007 semester.
If interested, submit a cover letter along with a resume to:
Communication Arts Division Secretary Dottie Hempfleng by November 30.
organization’s efforts. I do
hope that the people who are
attending this protest know
why they are out there, and
have asked a lot of questions.
Obviously,
there
is
something ineffective with
these SOAW protests. They
have been taking place since
1990. It has been 16 years of
yearly protests, and this school
still exists! Is a name change
really much of a large step?
Opinions&
R eaction
Editorials
Student
“What’s your beef
with the apartments?”
“I hate waking up to raccoons at the
foot of my bed!”
-Jeff Philastre ‘07
“Futons are not a fire hazard.”
-Clare Adam ‘07
Wednesday, November 8, 2006 The SpringHillian
11
Campus smoking intolerable to some
Dear Editor:
Besides the obvious fact
that smoking is just plain nasty,
we also feel that our rights as
non-smokers are being violated.
The student handbook states
that: “It is also not permitted within
20 feet of residence hall entrances.”
We have never seen this policy
enforced. Not only is it wholly
unpleasant to inhale lung-fulls of
carcinogens just to walk into our
dorm, but it’s also a blatant policy
violation. As this is a residence
life policy, it’s incumbent upon
the RAs to enforce this policy.
Even more egregious than
students violating smoking rules
is the fact that Campus Security
officers have also broken these
rules. It isn’t uncommon to see
one or more officers sitting or
standing underneath the overhang
between Walsh Hall and the
Mail Room smoking. This is
fascinating, because there are
two green signs posted on the
walls that say “No Smoking.”
Perhaps this policy is ignored
because the cigarette disposal
posts are placed within 20 feet
of the buildings; many of them
are near dorm entrances. Doh!
The policy should be extended
to all buildings. First, there
are numerous health hazards
associated with being subjected
to second hand smoke. According
to the National Cancer Institutes’s
Web site on secondhand smoke,
its 50 carcinogens are linked to
lung cancer, nasal sinus cancer
and possibly even cervix, breast
and bladder cancer. It can
cause chronic coughing, chest
discomfort, lowered lung function,
severe lower respiratory tract
infections such as bronchitis or
pneumonia, aggravation of asthma,
eye and nose irritation, severe and
chronic heart diseases, middle ear
infections in children, and sudden
infant death syndrome. Second,
it’s more than mildly upsetting to
know that you are slowly dying
by simply trying to go to class
or to someplace else on campus.
For the sake of those of us
trying to avoid death, the school
should prohibit smoking around
all buildings on campus. Main
thoroughfares and sidewalks should
be included, especially around the
cafeteria. The unpleasant aromas
of cigarette smoke wafting into
the caf while you are trying to
eat is just, well, crappy. Crappy,
too, is the experience of walking
to class behind a smoker or two.
Perhaps the Wellness Center
can sponsor a Quit Smoking
program to help those who want to
stop smoking. This, coupled with
more strict enforcement of the
smoking policies and the extension
of these policies will help make
this campus more enjoyable for all.
- Megan Hill and David Mendoza
Cats and raccoons a health hazard
Dear Editor:
For your information, the white cats you see
are not beautiful and healthy pets, they are diseased
Welcome to Spring Hill College, an amazing albinos… so stay away. Not only are the cats
“I keep getting locked in my apartSouthern institution at the heart of the city of diseased, but they also carry bad luck with them. As
ment. ”
Mobile. On its beautiful campus you will see its sophomore Ryan Weber pointed out to me, “Black
-Casey Seraphin ‘07
student population of about 1100 strong walking cats are always crossing my path, I don’t feel safe
between classes, dorms, and dining locations. anymore!” So to the nice lady who feeds these cats
Between the sidewalks of which these students everyday, try taking one of them home with you
make use, you will also see the students’ unusually and see just how long it takes you to come down
large non-human population. By non-human I mean with rabies, ringworm, or seven years of bad luck.
the cats, raccoons, foxes, squirrels, dogs, and birds.
As for the raccoons, everyone can agree, they do
“Can’t I have a flipping smoke and a
Squirrels and birds do not seem to bother anyone as not need to be on our campus. They are rodents that
just about every home in America has a few of them. go through our trash and also spread disease. In case
beer on my balcony?”
The few dogs you see on campus are usually leashed you didn’t know, raccoons are naturally nocturnal.
-Jane Miller ‘07
or someone’s missing pet, unless it’s that fat basset The reason why these pests are running around during
Candidates must be willing to work long hours, handle stress, controversy and have a willingness to sacrif
hound that is often seen making its rounds looking the day is because they are diseased, probably with
for scraps of our food. A fox is sometimes seen here rabies! News flash! That’s not safe. The general
and there, not often, but they do exist on this campus. consensus gathered regarding the raccoons is that they
Besides those not so worrisome creatures, there need to go. Most people agree with sophomore Dan
are two other species that flourish on this campus. Thouvenot who says that “they should all be shot.”
These are the cats and raccoons. The cats have made
The raccoons have not been a problem in
“We were promised a grill...where is this campus their home
for
as
long
as
I
can
remember,
the
past,
but now you can look out your window
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam
while
the
raccoons
were
first
seen
last
year
but
from
any
dorm any night of the week and see those
it?”
have now established themselves as a competitor to rodents scurrying around our campus. After all,
-Conor Gee ‘07
the cats. Personally, I hate cats. They’re evil, they having a black cat or a raccoon cross your path isn’t
claw, they hiss, they scratch the roof of my car, and really appealing to a prospective student taking a
they lie around all day doing absolutely nothing tour of the campus. Something must be done about
except breeding more cats and spreading disease. these rabid raccoons and evil soul-stealing cats.
I’ve always been a dog person, and use to enjoy
Since the administration has done little to stop
sending my dog after the cats in my neighborhood. The the spread of these creatures, the students might
“I’m scared a raccoon is going to get in
ancient Egyptians were right, they are evil. However, have to take Dan’s advice and take matters into
there are a lot of people who like cats and should be our own hands. If anyone does shoot a raccoon,
my apartment and attack me!”
respected. But whether you like cats or not, the reality please save the hide for Megan Waesche who
-Dorsey Luther ‘07
of the situation must be accounted for. Domesticated would like to have her very own Daniel Boone hat.
cats are usually well taken care of; they are healthy
and well trained. The cats on campus however are
wild, have not received necessary vaccinations, and
are health and safety hazards to the student body. Mel Gerrets
Compiled by Alicia Brauer
12
Sports
Lady badger’s game postponed
The SpringHillian Wednesday, November 8, 2006
UPCOMING GAMES
TEAM
VB
DATE
Nov. 10
OPPONENT
SITE
VB
Nov. 11
TBA
TBA
WG
Nov. 11
MG
TBA
Nov. 11
MB
Mobile
Mobile
TBA
Nov. 11 McNeese State University
MG
WG
Nov. 12
Mobile
Nov. 12
U.S.A.
Nov. 12
WB
MG
Nov. 13
WG
Nov. 13
Mobile
Lake Charles, LA
Mobile
TBA
Mobile
Mobile
Mobile
Mobile
TBA
MG - Men’s Golf
VB - Volleyball
WG - Women’s Golf
MS - Men’s Soccer
MCC - Men’s Cross Counrty
TBA
KEY
Mobile
WS - Women’s Soccer
WCC - Women’s Cross Country
MB - Men’s Basketball
WB - Women’s Basketball
RECENT RESULTS
TEAM
MB
DATE
Nov. 6
OPPONENT
Louisiane - Lafayette
OUTCOME
L: 51-65
MCC
Nov. 4
NAIA Championship
TBA
WCC
VB
VB
MS
MB
MG
Nov. 4
Nov. 3
Nov. 1
Nov. 1
Oct. 31
Oct. 31
NAIA Championship
Mobile
Loyola
Thomas University
F.S.U.
J.S. Invitational
TBA
W: 3-0
L: 0-3
W: 3-2 (OT)
L: 90-72
P: 5th 308-319 = 627
MS
MG
Oct. 30
Oct. 3o
Mobile
J.S. Invitational
L: 0-4
P: 2nd -308
ATHLETES OF THE WEEK
Melissa Williams
Volleyball
Courtesy of SHC website
Luke Steinkopf
Soccer
Courtesy of SHC website
Courtesy of SHC
Athletic Website
MOBILE, Ala. -- The Spring Hill
women’s basketball team had
their first game of the season cut
short due to heavy wind and rain
causing facility damage at the
Outlaw Center. The game will
resume on Nov. 22 at Auburn
Montgomery. The Lady Badgers
were unable to finish their first
home game of the 2006-07 season
against Auburn Montgomery
due to facility damage. With
Patrick Yursick / Photographer
16:18 left in the second half,
The Ar thur R. Outlaw Recreation Center is a state of the
the Senators led SHC 41-26. ar t facility that was completed in 1997.
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