ENTERTAINMENT
Want to know who’s selling those hotdogs downtown? See
page 6.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
OPINIONS
Our columnists discuss the proposed stimulus packages on page 4.
STUDENTPRINTZ.com Want to know where our recruits are from? Check out our Signing Day coverage online.
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Volume 93, Issue 37
USM host for month of ‘empowerment’ Groups across city provide events Meryl Dakin Printz Writer
David N. Jackson/Printz
Golden Eagles Head Coach Larry Fedora signs a T-shirt for Ashley Ulerich during signing ceremony where Southern Miss welcomed 22 new players. See more on page 8.
Deadline approaching for climate commitment Lesley Walters News Editor
As a part of the climate commitment President Martha Saunders signed nearly a year ago, the university is quickly approaching its deadline to account for all of its greenhouse gas emissions. The American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment (ACUPCC) requires that its signatories develop a plan to “achieve climate neutrality.” Before a university can meet that goal, however, it must be aware of what its current contribution to climate change actually is within a year of signing the ACUPCC. To do this, the Office of Sustainability has enlisted the help of a local physicist and several undergraduate students to complete an inventory of carbon emissions on Southern Miss campuses. The first step was to establish a “campus carbon calculator” said Larry Lee, chief officer of sustainability. He found a model for the CCC used by students at Stetson University in Florida as part of a capstone course. “I approached Dr. Rex Gandy and he took off with the idea –
created a class and took ownership of the process,” Lee said. “I am terribly grateful to not only have a scientist overseeing the process, but also our dean of Science and Technology. This is truly a success story.” Gandy, who is also a professor of physics and astronomy, said the university began offering a “special topics” undergraduate course to help track carbon emissions on campus. During the fall semester, around 10 undergraduates led by a biology graduate student, Bridget Napier, completed an emissions inventory of the Hattiesburg campus, Gandy said. This semester, Napier is leading a class of four undergraduates to do the same on the Gulf Coast campus. “It requires a lot of hard work and the gathering of a tremendous amount of information,” Gandy said. “The university community has been very supportive of the efforts of these students.” The students were required by the ACUPCC to track all emissions on campus, including those from electricity, heating, and commuter and air travel. Lee agreed that the challenge facing these students is
In observance of Black History Month, USM is hosting an array of educational, recreational and entertainment programming throughout the month of February, centered on the theme “The Empowerment of the Black Man and Woman.” Tiffany LabonSims, coordinator of the Office of Minority Affairs, is just one of the many organizers of this month’s events who hope students learn and appreciate more about black contribution to American society. “This year’s programs are designed to inspire all members of the campus community-administrators, faculty, staff and students to go forth and empower not only themselves, but those around them,” Labon-Sims said. The City of Hattiesburg will host its 10th annual fundraising banquet in celebration of Black History Month at the Jesse L. Brown Lodge No. 1450, beginning at 6 p.m. on Feb. 21. Contact Marshall Bell at (601) 583-4912 for more information. Mayor Johnny Dupree will be the guest of honor, and shared his personal view that “life should be celebrated – every day, every week, every month – of Americans.” Mayor Dupree will also sit as one of four panelists at the upcoming roundtable discussion: “Is racism dead since the United States elected an African-American President?” Erik Fleming, former U.S. House candidate, Melvin Mack, mayor of Laurel, and Dr. Curtis Austin, USM director of the Center for
Black Studies, will also serve on the discussion panel. The College Democrats, hosts of the discussion, invite all students to participate Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Union Hall of Honors. Melissa Carpenter, secretary of Student Services and College Democrats adviser, explained the format of the forum. “Students are preparing the discussion points, but there’s also going to be a segment where the audience will be able to ask questions,” she said. She added that this will be the first planned roundtable discussion on such a topic. “It’ll be up to the students to continue it, but they really wanted to start it during Black History Month,” she said. Also included in the events lineup is the Civil Rights exhibition at the downtown Train Depot. The “Hattiesburg Remembers the Freedom Summer of 1964” exhibit began Wednesday and will run through Feb. 28. It will feature original photographs taken by Herbert Randall, Jr. These photographs, taken during the summer of 1964, illustrate Hattiesburg during the 1960s Civil Rights Movement. VisitHattiesburg, The University of Southern Mississippi Libraries, the African-American Military History Museum, and the City of Hattiesburg are sponsoring the exhibit. The exhibit is free to the public and will be open Wednesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., and Sunday, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. For more information, call the Lake Terrace Convention Center at 601.268.3220.
Heart month kicks off James Prillhart Printz Writer
David N. Jackson and Jesse Bass/Illustration/Printz
The ACUPCC requires that its signatories develop a plan “to acheive
climate neutrality.” impressive. “Our students are learning very real skills, something that will benefit them greatly in the future, and receiving academic credit for doing so,” Lee said. “How many students can put on their résumé, ‘completed carbon emissions research for an entire division-1, doctorategranting research institution?’” Since the ACUPCC requires an updated report of carbon emissions for the university every other year, there will be more opportunities for students to participate in the study in the future.
More than adding an item to the “accomplishments” section of their résumés, however, the work of these students will help Southern Miss meet its goals and may influence other universities around the country “embark on similar initiatives,” Gandy said. “Just going through the process of carbon counting will raise general awareness of the issue of climate change,” Gandy said. “In the long run, this effort will lay the groundwork for the university to significantly reduce its carbon footprint.”
February is American Heart Month, and with poor health and obesity common challenges for Mississippians, some organizations are urging awareness and education of heart-health. USM President Martha Saunders recently sent a campus-wide e-mail urging that student, faculty and staff wear red T-shirts every Friday during the month to promote heart-health awareness. The Office of Human Resources on campus has already distributed several red T-shirts to faculty and staff. But awareness of heart disease does not by itself lower a person’s risk. Jodi Tate, a health education promotion coordinator at Student Health Services, said
heart health can be maintained by implementing a few lifestyle choices. She suggested Saunders exercising regularly and eating healthy food that is low in cholesterol and saturated fat. Food items that bear the American Heart Association symbol have been screened and verified to be low in saturated fat and cholesterol, according to its Web site. Any exercise is helpful, Tate said, but cardiovascular workouts in particular can improve your heart’s health and help you lose weight. The AHA suggests swimming, cycling, jogging, skiing, See HEART page 3
Single students invited to speed-date for scientific study Lesley Walters News Editor
Tonight, 20 single Southern Miss students will participate in the first of several speed-dating sessions being offered throughout the spring semester – all in the name of science. Virgil Zeigler-Hill, an assistant professor of psychology, is one of the faculty supervisors of the speed-dating sessions.
INDEX
CALENDAR............................2 OPINIONS...............................4 CONTACT INFO.....................5 ENTERTAINMENT.................6
He said the free quasi-dating service is actually an experiment being used to study first impressions in romantic attraction. Any student can sign up for the sessions, which take place in Owings-McQuagge Hall Room 111 from 6 to 8 p.m. most Thursdays for the rest of the semester. Each student will participate in 10 four-minute dates and fill out evaluations of
ENT. CALENDAR...................7 SPORTS....................................8 SPORTS CALENDAR.............8
their partners. After the session, some students may even be matched with other compatible participants. And just in time for Valentine’s Day. “That’s more of a coincidence, to be honest,” ZeiglerHill said. He and his fellow faculty supervisor, David Marcus, both came across a study conducted at Northwestern University a
few years ago and found the idea interesting, but “neither of us had done much with it,” he said. “Then Katie Payne, a graduate student, came along and was interested in doing this for her dissertation,” he said. “Then she designed everything, and she is really the driving force behind it.” A fourth-year doctoral student of clinical psychology, Payne
said the main focus of the study is to determine how personality traits affect attraction. She said the speed-dating method is different from other previous studies because it places participants in “real-life circumstances.” “Research on initial romantic attraction in the past has just been in a laboratory,” she said, “and it’s usually been strangers kind of evaluating photos or information and never actually
POLICY
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meeting the people.” The dating sessions will take place in a classroom, Payne said, but it will look nothing like a laboratory. She said the room would be decorated to feel more comfortable with mood-music and dim lights. Payne said she will gather data from the evaluations that participants fill out between
TODAY
56/30
See SPEED page 3
TOMORROW
70/42
Page 2|News
www.studentprintz.com |Thursday, February 5, 2009
PLEASE, RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER
EventsCalendar TODAY
•All day – Soccer Registration – Payne Center •All day – Learn to Swim Registration, Session II – M.C. Johnson Natatorium •All day – 13th Annual DuBard Symposium: Dyslexia and related disorders •10 a.m. – Museum of Art presents “Cross Connections” Exhibition -- Museum of Art •11:45 a.m. – Wesley Foundation Thursday Lunch – Wesley Foundation •7 p.m. – Women’s Basketball v. SMU – Reed Green Coliseum
TOMORROW
•All day – Men’s Tennis @ Las Vegas Invitational – Las Vegas, N.V. •All day -- Soccer Registration – Payne Center •All day -- Learn to Swim Registration, Session II – M.C. Johnson Natatorium
•All day – 13th Annual DuBard Symposium: Dyslexia and related disorders •10 a.m. -- Museum of Art presents “Cross Connections” Exhibition -- Museum of Art •11 a.m. – Biological Sciences Seminar – Polymer Science Auditorium •6 p.m. – Southern Miss Softball, Southern Miss Invitational – Hattiesburg, Miss.
SATURDAY
•All day – Men’s Tennis @ Las Vegas Invitational – Las Vegas, N.V. •All day – Indoor Track & Field @ Houston – Houston, Texas •All day -- Soccer Registration – Payne Center •All day -- Learn to Swim Registration, Session II – M.C. Johnson Natatorium •10 a.m. -- Museum of Art presents “Cross Connections” Exhibition -- Museum of Art
•1 p.m. – Women’s Basketball v. Tulsa – Reed Green Coliseum •1 p.m. – Women’s Tennis v. SMU – Hattiesburg, Miss. •2 p.m. – Men’s Basketball v. UAB – Reed Green Coliseum •4:30 p.m. – Southern Miss Softball, Southern Miss Invitational – Hattiesburg, Miss. •7:30 p.m. – Misnomer Dance Theater Company Concert – Mannoni Performing Arts Center
SUNDAY
•All day – Men’s Tennis @ Las Vegas Invitational – Las Vegas, N.V. •All day -- Soccer Registration – Payne Center •All day -- Learn to Swim Registration, Session II – M.C. Johnson Natatorium •5:30 p.m. – Southern Miss Softball, Southern Miss Invitational – Hattiesburg, Miss. -- Compiled by Andy Hess
Do you want to spend four weeks in London this summer? Join us to learn more about the British Studies Program...
Thursday, Feb. 5th at 12:15 p.m. Union Room B **Pizza will be served** Connect with the past... Prepare for the future... Live in the moment... STUDY ABROAD! 601.266.4344 - www.usm.edu/ip
AA/EOE/ADAI
SGA Executive Officer Elections
for SGA President, SGA Vice President, SGA Attorney General, SGA Treasurer, and SGA Elections Commissioner
SGA Executive Officer Debate Feb. 11, 7:00pm Thad Cochran Center Ballrooms SGA Executive Officer Elections Primaries: Feb. 17 Elections: Feb. 19
Vote in the Thad Cochran Center, Cook Library, Liberal Arts Building (LAB), FYE Classroom from 8:30am-4:00pm
Absentee voting will take place on Monday Feb. 16 in the Dean of Students Office, Union Room 231
www.studentprintz.com |News
news in brief President to talk budget in town hall President Saunders is inviting all faculty and students to join the Executive Cabinet for a meeting to discuss the plan for handling the budget cuts the Governor recently announced. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 12, from 3-4 p.m. in the Thad Cochran Center Ballrooms.
Renowned brass quintent to play USM
The nationally renowned Saint Louis Brass Quintet will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 10 in Bennett Auditorium. The troupe boasts virtuoso players – two trumpeters, a hornist, a trombonist, and a tuba player – and a lighthearted and humorous production. Tickets are available from the Southern Miss Ticket OfďŹ ce at 601.266-5418 or 800844-8425. Order online at www.southernmisstickets.com.
Prochaska to speak in psych colloquium Internationally recognized psychologist, Dr. James O. Prochaska, will the featured speaker at The University of Southern Mississippi Department of Psychology’s sixth annual Hildman Colloquium. Dr. Prochaska is the principal investigator on more than $60 million in research grants for the prevention of cancer and other chronic diseases. Prochaska will present “Helping Patients and Populations at Each Stage of Change� Tuesday, Feb. 17 at 3 p.m. in the Thad Cochran Center, Ballroom I. Admission is free.
corrections
•An article in the Thursday, Jan. 27 issue of The Student Printz incorrectly reported that the Caregiver Support Group meets each Tuesday in the wrong building. The group meets Tuesdays from 12:10 – 12:50 in Owens-McQuagge 127. •A headline in the Thursday, Jan. 27 issue of The Student Printz incorrectly reported the wrong amount of the stimulus package. The Student Printz regrets these errors.
clariďŹ cation •An article in the Thursday, Jan. 27 issue of The Student Printz reported that students have two options for handling their refund check when they actually have three.
SEE AN ERROR? LET US KNOW. 601.266.4266
Thursday, February 5, 2009 | Page 3
Stimulus expected Heart Health continued from page one to pass but not without problems David Lightman MCT Campus
WASHINGTON - President Barack Obama ordered steep curbs on pay and perks Wednesday for bank executives seeking future taxpayer bailouts, capping their annual compensation at $500,000. The new rules come with a big loophole, however: The compensation limits can be waived in most cases if shareholders think the executives should earn more. Citigroup and Bank of America are excluded from this beneďŹ t. Obama’s proposal comes after a urry of reports that after taking taxpayer rescue funds, some big banks were still planning to purchase corporate jets, planned executive junkets to Las Vegas and Monte Carlo, or had spent millions of dollars on ofďŹ ce renovations. “This is America. We don’t disparage wealth. We don’t begrudge anybody for achieving success. And we believe that success should be rewarded,â€? Obama said. “But what gets people upset - and rightfully so - are executives being rewarded for failure - especially when those rewards are subsidized by U.S. taxpayers.â€? The growing anger at bank executives for their role in creating a global economic crisis has eroded public conďŹ dence in Obama’s efforts to pass an economic stimulus plan and to change course on previous bank-rescue efforts. Obama defended both approaches anew on Wednesday, saying the public voted “resoundingly for changeâ€? in November and urging Congress “to act without delay.â€? As for his restrictions on bankers’ compensation, Obama said that “in order to restore our ďŹ nancial system, we’ve got to restore trust.â€? “For top executives to award themselves these kinds of compensation packages in the midst of this economic crisis is not only in bad taste, it’s a bad strategy _ and I will not tolerate it as president,â€? Obama said. “We’re going to be demanding some restraint in exchange for federal aid, so that when ďŹ rms seek new federal dollars, we won’t ďŹ nd them up to the same old tricks.â€? Under the new plan, companies that seek new money from the Troubled Asset Relief Program or under a bank-speciďŹ c negotiated agreement called “exceptional assistanceâ€? would face the follow-
ing restrictions: -Top executives will have their pay and compensation capped at $500,000, a fraction of current pay for most. -Additional compensation will be limited to issuance of restricted stock in their banks, meaning that the government bailout money will have to be repaid before the executives can collect any of this extra non-salary compensation. -Restrictions on golden parachutes, the rewards given to departing executives, are tightened. For “exceptional assistanceâ€? recipients, restrictions will apply to the top 10 executives in a company, instead of the current top ďŹ ve. For TARP recipients, departing executives won’t get more than a year’s compensation. -Banks or other borrowers from the government will have to publicly disclose their policies on corporate jets, ofďŹ ce renovations and executive entertainment in the form of parties, morale-boosting trips, retreats and the like. As important as what Obama spelled out was the signal he sent that his administration would look at executive compensation beyond banks and Wall Street. The president promised a look at a corporate culture that’s rewarded top executives handsomely, while the income of workers, including those who are college graduates, has been largely stagnant for years. “We’re going to examine the ways in which the means and manner of executive compensation have contributed to a reckless culture and quarter-by-quarter mentality that in turn have wrought havoc in our ďŹ nancial system,â€? he said. “We’re going to be taking a look at broader reforms so that executives are compensated for sound risk management and rewarded for growth measured over years, not just days or weeks.â€?
dancing and walking. Even if you do not have time for a complete workout, simple exercises can be implemented in your daily life. Walk around the mall. Go shopping. Take advantage of not being able to ďŹ nd a parking space and walk to your classes if you live close to campus. According to the AHA Web site, simply walking can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, obesity, osteoporosis, non-insulin dependent (Type 2)
diabetes, and breast and colon cancers. It can also lower blood sugar levels, improve blood pressure and maintain body weight. According to the Center for Disease Control’s Web site, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. The CDC estimates that 785 thousand Americans will have their ďŹ rst coronary attack this year, and 470 thousand will have a recurrent attack. According to the Web site, one American
experiences a coronary event every 25 seconds and dies from one every minute. Check your family history for cases of heart disease or stroke to ďŹ nd out what you can do to prevent experiencing it yourself. For more information on heart health and what you can do to promote heart health awareness, visit the AHA Web site at www. americanheart.org or the CDC Web site at www.cdc.gov.
Speed Dating continued from page one dates--so that first impressions are still fresh--and from the questionnaires students must fill out to sign up for the sessions. Within 24 hours of the session, some participants might be matched with others, but Zeigler-Hill said the purpose of the current study is strictly shortsighted. While the prospect of tracking couples seems “fascinating� to the professor,
the study would require an “extraordinarily large� group of participants. Besides that, Zeigler-Hill said he expects “modest� results from the matches made during the speed-date sessions. While spending four minutes with people you find attractive may be enjoyable, he said, “having a full dinner with them may be different.� But for students who want
to play the proverbial field, Payne said she expects the experiment to be “a lot of fun.� There are only spots for 10 women and 10 men in each session, however, and the first session filled up within a week after the Web site was set up, she said. Interested students should visit www.usm.edu/speeddating to sign up.
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Opinions
Page 4 opinions@studentprintz.com
Let the stimulus through
In response to the severe downturn of our nation’s e c o n o m y, President Barack Obama has proposed Sarah to Congress Coleman an extensive Printz Writer stimulus package designed to revive the economy and help those negatively affected. This package includes roughly $544 billion in spending and around $275 billion in tax cuts. In addition, the package also intends to better the seemingly desperate situation of unemployment. The package contains $43 billion to be spent over a 2-year period to support unemployment benefits. There’s no doubt our economy needs reviving. Last week, the number of people laid off was one of the highest we’ve seen in several decades. House Representative David Obey, D-Wis., chairman of the House of Appropriations Committee, said, “Another week that we delay is another 100,000 or more people unemployed. I don’t think we want that on our consciences.” I tend to agree; some sort of action against this recession obviously needs to be taken, and I do believe this stimulus package is, for the most part, a good start. However, I will say that I’m not exactly thrilled by all the ruckus that has been stirred up as a result of the usual game of
Ping-Pong forever played by those on Capitol Hill. Granted, the package passed in the House of Representatives, but not exactly with the bipartisan spirit Obama was hoping for. Every single Republican voted against it, along with 11 Democrats (including our own Representative, Gene Taylor). At least part of this opposition comes from the idea that the Democrats are just using this stimulus package to push their own agenda. For example, Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions said, “I’m convinced that [Democrats] are seizing this as an opportunity to fund programs to a degree that they could never have funded before simply by calling it a way to create jobs.” Well, Senator, the reason they are calling it “a way to create jobs” could, perhaps, be that it will create jobs. Hence the “stimulus” tag. Moreover, Obama has made it clear that he wants the stimulus package to be a bipartisan effort. Take as evidence that he has met with a bipartisan group of crucial lawmakers for the sole purpose of reviewing the stimulus plan. The executive branch has gone to such lengths to make this a bipartisan effort that the stimulus package has changed significantly. But not all of the changes are favorable. One of the changes made to the package by the president in light of bipartisanship is the removal of provisions that would broaden access to family planning services, including access
to contraceptives. Complaints include Minority Leader John Boehner’s distaste for the idea of spending “hundreds of millions on contraceptives. How does that stimulate the economy?” Sorry John, but I did my homework, and I found that the Medicaid Family Planning State Option would actually save states money. There’s no doubt state budgets are suffering in these tough times. This provision would help these states extend coverage and expand access to preventive care; this would in turn let the states and federal government generate savings. That being said, I have to admit that I’m a little disappointed that Obama caved on the family planning provision. Couldn’t he have knocked out the proposal to refurbish the National Mall instead? I just hope that he remains true to his word that, in the upcoming weeks, he would address the need for family planning funding. Despite my grievances on this one facet of the stimulus plan, I think Obama’s plan for the economy in its entirety will be successful in the long run. While I’m sure the President would rather not have to cut parts of his plan, I can see how it could be excusable in this situation; if the stimulus package didn’t pass as a result of Obama’s failure to compromise, then that would leave our economy exactly how it is today: nearly in shambles.
Sarah Coleman is a staff writer for The Student Printz. Comments can be sent to printz@usm.edu.
Murderous tongues We are all guilty of doing something that could destroy reputations while hurting someone to the core. DeAli Holston spite what we Printz Writer may claim, we have all talked down about others. We have all “gossiped”. In middle school, I was used to the routine of hearing “who broke up with whom in math class” conversations during break, but with growing up comes learning lessons. One would think by the time we reach college such meaningless chatter would come to a halt. One’s insignificant banter could be another’s entire world. Many gain unfair perspectives of others from simple appearances. There is a usually a good reason why certain people stand out, and they may be self-conscious about their
situation. Some are quiet because hearing. Members of a group in they might have trouble at home, such a position of leadership are exand some may dress differently be- pected to convey a certain amount cause of money problems, or be- of class and high upstanding. After cause they just want to be unique. all, what you hear from the mouths When did we start making fun of of two certainly reflects on the enthat? tire group. It is a shame my views I admit, I’ve done my share of of these people have been changed slander. With age I have learned to due to a slip of the tongue. control the things that I say and am I think that it is very unfair to say very careful to not murder an inno- mean things about someone, especent person with my tongue. cially someone who is not there to I was disappointed to find as I defend themselves. You wouldn’t came to class one Monday, there want to be ripped apart by somewas a group of people who play an one who didn’t know your name, important role on this campus care- background, or lifestyle, would lessly disregarding who overheard you? their conversation. While trying Be an encourager. Instead of to mind my own business I over- tearing someone down, build them heard them talk about a girl whom up with kind words. You could be they thought to be a “cracked out the one bright spot in their day. little whore.” I thought, “well, Do not pry into the life of another that’s funny- this girl must have by saying things you know nothdone something to hurt them.” But ing about. Please, do unto others to my disbelief the next sentence as you would have them do unto was, “I don’t even know her name, you.. Ali Holston is a staff writer for The but…” Student Printz. Comments can be sent I couldn’t believe what I was to printz@usm.edu.
Bailouts may be the only way to solve financial crisis If some wealthy man knocked on my door and asked me for $20 because he made a few bad William business deCurtis cisions and Allred was not earnPrintz Writer ing as much as he had planned, my reaction would fall somewhere between politely refusing and slamming the door in his face. I view the recent economic
bailouts and, now, the $819 Billion Economic Stimulus Proposal from President Obama in the same respect. However, as a true citizen of America, I want to see this nation shine again, and wonder if this proposal is the only thing that will allow our great nation to rise to “world power” status again. However, I do not feel bailing out companies has ever been the American way. Hattiesburg Mayor Johnny DuPree commented on the proposal at Friday’s student gathering in The Student Printz office. He spoke of all the good
things he will be able to accomplish with the city’s share, but sympathized with the common man’s plight. Dupree said the recent economic events are “challenging for small businesses.” Given the amount of recent layoffs and store closures, I am inclined to agree. If you consider The Great Depression, which our current crisis is constantly compared to, the rapid growth and demand of manufacturing in America during World War II stabilized our country and made us a force to be reckoned with worldwide.
So, why isn’t this happening now? Sadly, former President Bush’s war on terrorism failed to do anything for U.S. industry, save make the rich richer mainly because our complacent nation has turned to other places for products we could make ourselves. True, we have become lazy and more servicedriven in our business industry. If we are to come close to a 40 percent increase in personal income nationwide, such that World War II brought about, manufacturing will clearly be
the golden path. Yet, with the vast amount of products being inexpensively made overseas, the average wealthy business person obviously refuses to consider rekindling the manufacturing industry stateside. Normally, I would agree with the common man--that making something a little cheaper by producing it elsewhere would help overall. But the bigger picture tells me a different story. Mississippians usually don’t see the number of jobs a single factory constitutes – an average of 1,000 employment op-
portunities per plant. Most of us aren’t factory workers by trade except for the employees of a couple auto plants and the few remaining lumber and steel companies. I wish there were a better way to solve this problem than what has been presented recently. Sadly, we do not have the time to allow everything to recover on its own, and no one seems to have a better option. I may not think it is right, but maybe it’s the only way. William Curtis Allred is a staff writer for The Student Printz. Comments can be sent to printz@usm.edu.
Students need bailout too Work together Washington With the dark cloud of higher tuition looming overhead, there is a promise of rain on the Madeline financial paLivingston rade of college students, Printz Writer potentially leaving us too broke to even buy an umbrella. The benefits of the billions in bailouts and stimulus will be felt by everyone, either immediately or shortly after the fact. However, while we will all ultimately benefit from it, the burden of repaying all this deficit money will weigh heavily upon the shoulders of our generation and of our children. Therein lies the problem. How are we, the victims of university budget cuts, increasing tuition costs, and a decade of overpriced everything supposed to make ends meet? Consider this: the borrowed money will be repaid through eventually paying more taxes, which will have to be met with high earning jobs, which typically require college degrees, which are becoming harder and harder to pay for. Thanks to the
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poor state of global economy, college students will graduate into a world where they are consumed by their own debt and the debt of a nation. While our officials search desperately for solutions, let them remember to look ahead to the future of college students who will become taxpayers. If the government sees fit to bail out heads of Wall Street, it seems reasonable that it should also see to bailing out, as President Barack Obama said frequently during his campaign, Main Street. In this case, Main Street is comprised of college students who aren’t fed by a trust fund or thousands of dollars in scholarships for being the “All American.” The students who suffer through minimal wage to better themselves with education call Main Street home. These deserve the help of the government most of all., not the wealthy heads of multi-billion dollar corporations. As it stands, if you’re rich and your parents pay, you can go to college; if you’re poor and the government pays, you can go to college; but if you’re in the middle and struggling from day to day to earn every
dime while keeping yourself in college, no one helps and you are overlooked. The Mississippi Office of Financial Aid has no grants for students whose parents qualify for a Pell Grant but refuse or still cannot afford to pay for their education. Nor for the self-reliant, estranged from their parents and out to make for themselves a life on their own. By taking money from universities and their students, the government handicaps its upand-coming generation. Tighter budgets and increasing tuition go hand in hand, and with every rise in costs, the number of student loans explodes, and here we all were thinking we were in an economic crisis as the result of too much borrowed money. Silly us. A college education should be something every American can afford. Hopefully, after the mushroom cloud from the nuclear implosion of our economy has settled, Obama can embark on fulfilling his campaign promises to aid college students and universities alike. Madeline Livingston is a staff writer for The Student Printz. Comments can be sent to printz@usm.edu
A f t e r months of incessant talk about economic stimulus, the House of RepresentaMarika tives voted Smith last week to Printz Writer pass a stimulus package estimated at over $819 billion. At first, one might think this is a move in the right direction, especially in light of recent economic activity, but it is quite possibly something that will only further divide the country. The House of Representatives passed the package without a single Republican vote in favor. I find it incredibly irritating when the government works like a massive high school. It’s as if our senators and representatives couldn’t care less about doing what is best for the country or their constituents, and act only according to party. It makes me wonder what we as a country could do if the people who make policy decisions would stop acting like whining teenagers and actually
work together. Currently, the stimulus bill is working its way through the senate, and the prospects are not looking good. Last week, prior to the vote in the House, President Barack Obama spoke to Republicans on Capitol Hill. The thought was that even if he couldn’t convince them to vote for this economic stimulus plan, then perhaps he could encourage bipartisanship on policies to come. However, the outcome of the vote only seems to show the Republicans in the House care about nothing but voting against Democrats. I understand Democrats and Republicans have distinct political differences. Most notably, Republicans typically support a laissez-faire attitude and work to keep the government out of the economy, a fundamental view that is becoming increasingly less likely with the current economic climate. Democrats, however, tend to believe that government should regulate the economy and help the people in various ways when the economy takes a strange turn like it has recently.
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Because of these stark differences between the parties, there will be a few hurdles when trying to reach common ground in dealing with an economic downturn like the one we are currently experiencing. However, from what I have heard and read from various news sources, it seems like Obama is the only person who is making any attempt at creating relationships across party lines. In order for the government to reach its full potential, those who hold government office need to step across the aisle and make decisions regarding what is best for the country as a whole, not just what their party tells them to do. I understand that part of the reason we vote for a particular candidate is because of their ideals, many times evident in their party affiliation. However, in order for the country to come out of this economic mess on top, our policymakers need to learn how to work together and stop acting like petulant two-year-olds. Marika Smith is a staff writer for The Student Printz. Comments can be sent to printz@usm.edu.
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Lets pay fair. Small justices in workplace
President Barack Obama signed his first bill into law Thursday. It is known as the “Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Olivia Act,” and it baLightsey sically extends Printz Writer the amount of time an employee has to file suit against his or her employer for unfair pay. There has been a ton of confusion about what this law means, so let me help clarify before I go on. The law is not about equal pay for women, although that is what started the whole ordeal. It is not about affirmative action or equal pay for all races. The law does not demand equal pay for handicapped employees. It only extends the time
an employee has to sue their employer by an extra 180 days, giving employees 6 months to file suit. It is easy enough to understand and sounds pretty simple. The same bill came up in Congress during the term of our last president. It was passed in the House, but did not pass in the Senate. Opponents of the bill claimed it would encourage lawsuits and argued that employees could delay filing their claims in hopes of receiving larger rewards. The version that passed last week, however, does not extend the two year limit placed on receiving back-pay from discriminatory payrolls. It just restarts the 6-month window of opportunity every time an employee receives a paycheck. I don’t understand why Bush and his Senate thought six months to file a suit was too long. It could take
an employee well over 3 months to find out what a coworker was making, deem it unfair, contact a lawyer, make a case, and actually file the lawsuit. That’s assuming the employee has plenty of time during bankers’ hours to meet with attorneys, as well as ample money to pay them. My guess is the majority of people experiencing such pay discrimination have neither time to take off nor money to spend, and lawsuits ultimately aren’t filed as often as they could be. Six months is a perfectly reasonable amount of time. I totally agree with equal pay for equal work, though. If I found out my male coworkers, or coworkers of another race were making more than I was for no reason, I would be pissed. Employers definitely have the right to set individual pay based on qualifications, responsibilities
or other factors relevant to the task at hand. However, Congress has already decided, thankfully, my pay and yours can have nothing to do with our sex, sexual orientation, color or religion. If my black male coworker gets a raise because he does a higher quality of work than I do, I can’t really call my manager a racist, sexist pig. There must be proof. But now, if I find said proof, I’ve got more time to do something about it. Unfortunately, there are statistics all over the Internet reflecting the unfair pay trend toward women. According to the AFL-CIO, as read on CNN.com, the average 25year-old woman who works fulltime, year-round until she retires at 65 will earn $523,000 less than the average working man. The article is from 2004, so these statistics may not be fully accurate today,
“Excuse me, what are you?” a young man randomly asked me one afternoon. Instead of Jennifer my usual Vital sarcasm I Printz Writer replied “I’m Mexican,” since he seemed so polite. “So you’re Hispanic? I knew you looked exotic.” To that, I giggled and walked away. I moved to the United States when I was fourteen. I found it quite funny to see how race played such a big part in American life. It was strange to be asked for my race at the beginning of a test. What made it even better was all the potential options. I believe I picked “Other” every time during my high school career. I figured every American was some type of “other”: One fourth Hispanic, two-fifths American Indian, one-eighth AfricanAmerican... My second contact with the race topic came from people talking about it. I found it interesting how none of my friends would complain about another race; it was always about how misrepresented, ignored, misunderstood, or forgotten their own race was. And yes, this included every race. According to every group of people, they were the ones who were in some way discriminated against. I thought it funny at the time and didn’t care if I looked like a tan white girl, a light skin mixed girl, or a Mexican. I sure didn’t care how others looked. Even funnier was my recent realization of what a hypocrite I am. I do not like to be treated as the underdog, as inferior, as under-qualified, or simply different for that matter. Yet I am quite ready to claim the benefits of being a minority. So, where do we cross the line? Should we get rid of the labeling of races altogether? I don’t think forgetting our many different heritages would solve racial issues. After all, if you don’t know your history, how can you try to build a future? We should be proud of our heritages, whatever they
may be. Our ancestors had to overcome many difficulties for us to take full advantage of the freedoms we have today. While our heritage and experiences should have molded us into the people we currently are, including our mannerisms and points of view, it should be clear that our race does not
define us. Now, if you have ever been discriminated against for your background or race, I am truly sorry. But that does not give you any right to hold grudges against another or feel oppressed because of your skin color. Adversities can lead to growth, or leave us stuck at
whining. It isn’t the easiest to forgive and forget, but who knows? You may come out of the situation as the bigger person, gaining humility and wisdom on the way. In the words of Thomas Jefferson, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are
but they’re still utterly shocking. A 2003 study showed that women made, on average, 78% of man’s wages. Something tells me there’s still a problem with the notion that “she works hard for the money, so you better treat her right.” Hopefully, this new law will help remedy the all-too-present “glass ceiling.” Ladies—and gentlemen—if you feel your employers are paying you less than you deserve solely based on your feminine curves or your manly physique, you have time to do your research and sue them for all they’re worth. That’s really all this new law does for you, though. Don’t get your hopes up for anything more.
This is a column of opinion written by Printz Opinions Staff Writer Olivia Lightsey. Comments can be sent to printz@usm.edu.
Race shouldn’t matter. We’re Americans.
endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” He didn’t specify the percentage of specific races that were required to hold such truths. What am I? I’m an American.
Jennifer Vital is a staff writer for The Student Printz. Comments can be sent to printz@usm.edu.
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Entertainment
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Condom art show gives USM “the rub” on sexual health Patrick Laughlin Printz Writer
Ah, Venus de Milo, Mount Rushmore…the Leaning Tower of ‘Trojans’? Call it what you will, but there is no doubt that the Office of Health Promotion’s Condom Art Exhibit is not your grandmother’s art show. To be held at 5:30 p.m. next Wednesday in the R.C. Cook Union, the contraceptive art exhibit is welcome to any and all student wishing to submit their condom masterpiece. The Office of Health Promotion is offering free expired condoms to all those willing to participate, to be used for artistic expression only. Ashley Wreay, the Office’s health promotion coordinator, gives the Student Printz the rub on the rubbers. Student Printz.: In a nutshell, what’s the deal with this condom art exhibit? Ashley Wreay: It’s just a fun way to get creative students to show there skill, and also to start up a discussion about sexually healthy practices. S.P.: This is completely by the students for the students? A.W.: Yes. We have an application and a guideline sheet that all the participating students have to fill out. Once that’s done, they submit their work in by this Friday, so we can make sure it’s appropriate and within reason. Beforehand, at the exhibit, we’re just going to give a quick little sexual health program, a talk about the best ways for students to defend themselves from sexually trans-
mitted infections and unwanted pregnancies. Afterward, we’re going to showcase each of the art pieces and we have a panel of judges to pick the winners. There will be a money prize for each of the top three winners.
partment for
Health Promo-
tion been putting on condom shows as a means of promoting sexual health?
A.W.: This is only our second year to do something of this nature. Last year’s fashion show was a first, as
a room surrounded by condoms on display, well, it’s kind of like the big pink elephant in the room, you know? At the end of the day, we’re really hoping to generate a dialogue about sexual health, because it’s something that a lot of people don’t feel comfortable talking about, and that’s what we want to do: get people thinking about how to keep themselves safe. S.P.: What would you tell students who might be a little queasy about the subject matter?
A.W.: I would encourage them to come to the event before they make any judgment. When it comes to discussing sexual health we strive to offer factual information based off of research. We promote all forms of safe sex, including abstinence.
S.P.: Now, a condom art
- that’s kind of off Do you expect some strange submissions? A.W.: We do actually. We are expecting anything that the imagination can come up with. Last year we had a condom fashion show in which people made garments out of condoms. This time, we thought we’d let the imagination get wild with this art exhibit idea and we’re hoping to see some creative things. There’s no telling what students will come up with. We’re very excited about it. S.P.: How long has the Deexhibit
the wall.
is this year’s idea. We really don’t know what to expect, to be honest, since it is something that we’ve never done. We hope it will grab students’ attention because it is something off-the-wall and generally unheard of on this campus. S.P.: So, you’re hoping this unconventional exhibit will make conversations about sexual health a little more relaxed?
A.W.: That’s pretty much the idea. We do want it to break barriers, because there are plenty of those when it comes to sex discussions. When people are in
We include the fact that true abstinence is the only one-hundred percent positive way of protecting yourself. Anything else is a risk reduction method, not completely effective. It is our job to give students the facts, and the facts are that if you want to have sex, there are ways to reduce the risk of pregnancy and disease. We try to include both ends of the spectrum – we’re not biased one way or another. We’re just here to give open and honest information to any student in any way that they’ll receive it. Images from Flickr
The condom art show is 5 p.m. next Wednesday in the R.C. Cook Union
Hoyt dogs serve up New York flavor West McKellar Printz Writer
If you were to drive down Broadway Drive to where it intersects Timothy Lane, you would encounter a single, small hot dog cart in the gravel lot on the corner. There is no flashing sign, no billboard to advertise, and no name on the cart. Instead, there is a single man by the name of Hoyt Tanner who has a love for New York
style hot dogs and serving food to people in a relaxed, informal atmosphere. Hoyt Tanner’s hot dog stand, or New York Hot Dog Cart, as he suggests the name could be if it had one, serves classic New York style hot dogs with fresh ingredients and hot dogs that are actually flown in from New York. Anyone who has been to New York will automatically recognize the blue and yellow stripes and “Sabrett” name on the umbrella of the cart, as it is on virtually every hot dog cart in the city. Sabrett is synonymous with New York style dogs and has been making all beef, allAmerican hot dogs since the early 1900s. Mr. Tanner has no reason to serve any other kind of hot dog. The menu is simple at the hot dog stand: hot dogs or jumbo hot sausage. Both the dogs can be served with any toppings for no additional fee, and include simple condiments like ketchup and spicy mustard to sauerkraut, barbecue onions, and meaty homemade chili. The jumbo hot sausages are made with cayenne and crushed red pepper and are a spicier, more filling option than the hot dogs. Prices are low, and a combo of two hot dogs, chips, and a soda only comes to $5.00 even. Hoyt Tanner was raised in the Bronx, New York and has been in Hattiesburg for seven years. He is a classically-French trained chef and served as the head chef and general manager of Walnut Circle Grill in Hattiesburg for three years. He stepped down as head chef and
David N. Jackson/Printz
Hoyt Tanner serves New York style hotdogs out ofhis cart in downtown Hattiesburg.
wanted to run a more personal, informal eatery. Since he had been wanting to run a hot dog stand since 1978, starting the stand was a quick decision for him. The relaxed atmosphere is part of the allure of the hot dog stand as well. Mr. Tanner enjoys chatting with customers and wants people to feel relaxed and talkative when grabbing a quick bite to eat. “I get to joke around with people and be more relaxed. At Walnut Circle, I could talk to the customers as the head chef...but it was more formal and strict.” New York Hot Dog Cart serves from 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and is located on the corner of Broadway Drive and Timothy Lane. However, in the coming weeks he may be moving to W. Pine Street, on the other side of Timothy Lane. If you’re craving a quick, authentic, delicious hot dog and a good conversation, stop by and grab
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Thursday, February 5,2009 2009|| Page Page 7 Tuesday, January 13,
Art exhibit remembers Freedom Summer Eric Nagurney
Entertainment Editor
As part of Black History Month celebrations, images of the historic 1964 Freedom Summer are on display via the Hattiesburg Remembers the Freedom Summer of 1964 exhibit at the downtown train depot. Photographs on display at the exhibit are the work of famed photographer Herbert Randall. As a volunteer during the summer himself, Randall was able to document the event’s historic moments through a first-hand perspective. For his work, Randall has been awarded the Creative Artist’s Public Service Grant for Photography, along with the honor of having his work displayed in major museums like the The Brooklyn Museum and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. “There are few other photographers who intentionally captured the climate of the Civil Rights Movement the way
Herbert Randall was able to,” said Brooke Cruthirds, Museum Development Specialist of Hattiesburg’s African American Military History Museum. “He saw the events of the summer of 1964 as something crucial and that needed to be documented.” During the Freedom Summer of 1964, four prominent civil rights groups (the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the Congress of Racial Equality, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee) came together to take action in a Mississippi civil rights movement. Thousands of volunteers, both black and white, hailing from both in-state and out-of-state, united together in order to register black voters, educate the community, and fight for equalized civil rights. Though the movement was met with much resistance, including four deaths, the effort was considered an integral moment in the struggle for civil rights.
“Media attention was attracted to the disparities between the black and white communities during this time which elevated awareness throughout the nation,” said Cruthirds” The exhibition is being jointly sponsored by VisitHattiesburg, the African American Military History Museum, the City of Hattiesburg, and the University of Southern Mississippi Libraries. “While VisitHattiesburg is anxious and delighted to play a role in hosting unique art-related exhibits, such as the Freedom Summer exhibit, for our tourists to enjoy, these exhibits would not be possible without the expertise of our partners,” said VisitHattiesburg’s Kristie Fairley. Hattiesburg Remembers the Freedom Summer of 1964 will run from now until Feb. 28. Hours for the exhibit are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m on Sunday. Admission is free.
Submitted Photo
Images of the historic 1964 Freedom Summer will be on exhibit at the downtown train depot during Black History Month. The exhibit will run until Feb. 28.
Fast fashions have value Alice Doyle Printz Writer
I place a lot of emphasis, as someone who appreciates and sometimes writes about fashion, on clothes that are accessible. Even concepts that I respond to on the runway have to be accessible to the common person; the way that a designer uses color, fit, print, and styling are observed as inspiration for how I choose to put my own clothes together and are rarely allowed to exist in a fantasy land where they can only be admired. It’s as much a practical thing as a political thing. I don’t have the money to live in designer duds, obviously, but I also think it’s outrageous that fashion is sometimes treated as a luxury that has no place in the lives of the “common”
person. So, for those reasons, I love cheap stuff and “fast fashion.” “Fast fashion” is a pretty modern thing. In days past, designers would show their collections every season and then, a few seasons later, civilians would be able to buy looks inspired by those collections. Mainstream consumers were locked out of the truly current looks that they saw on celebrities and in magazines. Enter fast fashion, the clothes put out by chains like Forever 21, H&M, and Target that directly and cheaply translate designer looks for the greater market. Fast fashion is complicated. The methods of production are shady, designers aren’t happy to see their creations ripped off so closely, and because of the low quality of
the construction, many people view the clothes as disposable, which isn’t great for the environment. These concerns aren’t new to the clothing industry, but it seems that suddenly, as America’s economy has taken a turn for the worst, more people emerged to turn up their noses. I remember, a few months ago, reading a blog post and its many comments about the perceived irresponsibility of purchasing trash like the clothes at Target and Old Navy. I didn’t know what to think. I have dresses in my closet from both, some more than four years old. When a seam unravels, it gets mended, not thrown in the garbage. I honestly don’t have anything nicer. For a while, commenters agreed. Poor people should just save up and buy fewer items! It’s worth it! When dissenting
voices chimed in, they seemed as outraged and stung as I had been when they explained that for some people, that’s not an option. Some shoppers aren’t buying only trendy short-term pieces from these outlets, but their entire wardrobes. Were I to save up for a $300 pair of pants from Nordstrom, it’d be the only pair of pants I bought in a year. It’s a privilege to see cheap clothing as merely an option. Is fast fashion helping provide access to expressive clothing, or is it socially and environmentally irresponsible and harmful to the brands of the designers it borrows from? Is it both? By emulating $5,000 dresses for $30, are sellers really hurting designers, even though their markets rarely overlap? Think about it. Let’s talk.
Python print big this year Valerie Warrington Printz Writer
It seems that serpents are teasing women again. Fashion’s latest trend for spring is python print. Top designers featured python print in their spring Ready-to-Wear collections. Sophia Kokosalaki’s Egyptianstyle collection showcased a fabulous gold python print blouse with a shoulder strap that resembled a snake tail. My favorite from Gucci was a leather python print jacket, and Louis Vuitton designed exquisite python print detailing in his shoes and belts. While python print items from couture collections may be out of your budget, you can find them popping up in boutiques across the nation. Exotic leathers, such as python, typically cost more than other leathers, but synthetic leathers
are reasonably priced and closely resemble their genuine counterparts. Forever21.com has a snakeskin cuff bracelet for under $10. Urban Outfitters online has black leggings with a subtle python print for under $30. Charlotte Russe sells both a racerback python print top and a vintage floral and python print wallet, both under $20. Also, you can find python ballet flats by Michael Antonio at Target for under $35. Python prints will likely be popping up in most boutiques
and stores across the country this summer, but proceed with caution. It is likely that serpent inspired clothes will never be a classic, so items with this print will likely be worn for one season and then thrown into the back of the closet. When buying python print, don’t over-indulge and spend over your budget on a seasonal trend that is likely to end after the summer. It’s best to buy python print clothes at affordable prices. If you prefer quality items or if you are unsure of picking up on
a trend that will probably go out of style by winter, buy a python-printed belt or clutch in neutral colors. Accessories at high prices typically have a good quality and they are much cheaper than buying a high-priced dress of the same quality. However, python print seems to be a reemerging design over the last decade. So, don’t be too worried if you’ve already spent $800 on a snakeskin Kooba bag. Chances are, you might be able to use it again next season.
Sports
For more signing day coverage visit www.studentprintz.com
Page 8 sports@studentprintz.com
Fedora welcomes 22 new Eagles
David Jackson/Printz
Mitch Williams, sports anchor for WDAM, emcees the Southern Miss signing day social.
Tyler Cleveland Sports Editor
Southern Miss head coach Larry Fedora’s second National Signing Day ran smoother than his first, but there were still some last-minute decisions. Fedora received letters of intent, binding agreements between students-athletes and universities, from 17 high school prospects and five junior college transfers. “This class is special,” Fedora said. “Our main emphasis was getting more speed on the field and I think we did that. There’s many people to thank: our current players for helping us recruit and the administration from the top-down. It takes an entire uni-
versity to recruit an athlete, and it’s vital that we work together.” Rivals.com ranks Fedora’s signing class tops in Conference USA, despite the second-year head coach losing of two of his best recruiters in the throws of the recruiting season when running backs coach Tony Hughes and recruiting coordinator Todd Wilson departed for SEC schools. “There were some battles still being fought last night and this morning,” Fedora said. “We’ve always said we were going after the best recruits in the nation, and they aren’t going to just fall into our laps.” The breakdown of the signed players reflected the Golden Eagles need for speed, with commit-
ments from six defensive backs and four offensive weapons that can really run. The Golden Eagles brought in two wide receivers and two running backs, as well as five offensive linemen. The biggest coup for the Southern Miss staff was hanging on to verbal-commits Kendrick Hardy, a 6-foot-1, 200 pound bruising tailback from Lawrence County, Miss., and Tracy Lampley, a smaller scat-back type from Wayne County. Hardy, the younger brother of former Golden Eagle linebacker Wayne Hardy, was named to both the Clarion Ledger dandy dozen and the Orlando Sentinel AllSouthern team. The duo should provide a bit of “smash and dash” to the Southern Miss backfield in the future. “In the spring, we decided we wanted to sign two running backs,” Southern Miss offensive coordinator Darryl Wyatt said. “We wanted to sign one back we call the speed back and the very first guy we identified was Tracy Lampley, a local guy from a tradition-rich program with great ability to make guys miss. “The other back was a bigger guy with speed that could provide a change of pace, and we had another local guy in Kendrick with
homerun ability.” On defense, the Eagles signed just one defensive lineman, opting again for a speed-first mentality, but Fedora said he’s more than satisfied with defensive end signee Octavius Thomas. The Mount Zion, Ga. native is 6-3, 230 pounds, and reportedly runs a sub-4.6 second 40-yard dash. “Octavius is the one player that most people didn’t know about,” Fedora said. “(Offensive line coach) Chris Kapilovic did a good job getting us on to him. We got a chance to see him on the basketball court, he’s a bi kid that runs hard.” Defensive coordinator Todd Bradford said the things he’s most excited about is the speed that his new defensive backs bring to the table. “We’re excited about the speed, that was the emphasis from day one,” Bradford said. “It’s no secret, our league is wide open and we felt like we didn’t have enough speed on the field to cover all the spread offenses.” Signing day may be a day of excitement for fans, but according to Fedora and his staff, it’s a day of relief for them and their families. “Coach Wyatt had to get four bags of fluids on Saturday be-
Signing Day Social Offers Fun and Exc itement for Players and Fans Kevin Kyzar Printz Writer
Southern Miss celebrated its second signing day under head coach Larry Fedora Wednesday night with the second annual Signing Day Social at Lake Terrace Convention Center. The event offered fans a chance to get a first-hand look at the new talent, and to mingle with coaches and players. “It’s really about getting the fans excited, just get them talking about football, spring game and season tickets,” said Associate Athletic Director Scott Carr. “It’s a great time to get Southern Miss fans together and allow them to interact with some of our current players and the coaching staff.” After a short press conference, Fedora spoke to fans about the recruiting class and the state of the program. “There’s a lot of excitement, people can’t wait to hear about (the new recruits) and see their highlights,” Fedora said. “I’m looking forward to feedback with the fans, that’s the thing that’s fun about this tonight.”
Fedora and his assistants took turns showing video and talking about the recruits, while fans got a chance to take advantage of the food and drinks provided by the university. Fans of all ages also got a chance to meet current Golden Eagles like running back Damion Fletcher and quarterback Austin Davis. Both Fletcher and Davis said that the event was a great way to come out and mingle with fans and are anticipating getting to work with the new guys in the spring. “This is great, it’s one way we get to come out and show our appreciation to the fans,” Fletcher said. “I’m looking forward to working with the new guys, teaching them what I know and helping them become better college players.” While the players are excited, the coaches just seemed glad to be done with the recruiting process for now. “I’m mostly looking forward to recruiting being over for a few days,” defensive coordinator Todd Bradford said. “It’s nice to be out there amongst the Southern Miss fans.”
David Jackson/Printz
Michael McGee, of Magee, signs a football for a fan during the Golden Eagles Signing Day Social.
cause he was so worn out,” Fedora said at his press conference Wednesday. “It’s a long and tiresome process, and we’ve been looking forward to today for a
Top 5 Signees Kendrick Hardy 6-0, 215 lbs. Monticello, Miss. (Lawrence County HS) Jr. Year Rushing: 2,103 yards/29 TD Sr. Year Rushing: 1,762 yards/17 TD
running back
Jesse Bass/Printz
Pauline Love drives during the UCF, USM Lady Eagles basketball game.
HATTIESBURG - The Southern Miss women’s basketball team is will host SMU today. The game has been designated as the “Pack the House” game, admission is $1. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. Southern Miss is 14-7 overall and 7-1 league play following a 68-60 win over East Carolina in which Pauline Love led the way with her 16th double-double with 23 points and 12 rebounds. Andrea Barber added a careerhigh 17 to go with six assists. USM Track in Notre Dame Invitational, All day, South Bend, Ind. Saturday
Today
Men’s tennis vs. Cal Poly, 11 a.m., Las Vegas, Nev.
Women’s basketball vs. SMU, 7:05 p.m., Reed Green Coliseum
Women’s tennis vs. SMU, 1 p.m., Tatum Park
Friday
Softball vs. Arkansas, 4:30 p.m., Oak Grove High School
Men’s tennis vs. New Mexico St., 11 a.m., Las Vegas, Nev. Softball vs. Arkansas, 6 p.m., Oak Grove High School
Softball vs. Samford, 7 p.m., Oak Grove High School Men’s basketball vs. UAB, 5 p.m., Reed Green Coliseum
No. 18 running back in the nation 2007 District 6-4A Most Valuable Player 11th best overall player in Mississippi MAC 2007 4A All-State 2nd Team running back
Justin Jordon 5-11, 190 lbs.
Plano, Texas (JUCO Trans Blinn College) Fr. Year Receiving: 55 passes for 715 yards/7 TD 1st team All-American (JC Grid-Wire) 1st team All-SWJCFC 11th best overall player in Mississippi
wide receiver
Ben Schoenberger 6-5, 290 lbs. Pascagoula, Miss. (Miss. Gulf Coast CC)
MACJC All-South Team #30 Top of 100 picks in Jr. College (Rivals.com)
offensive tackle David Jackson/Printz
Korey Williams, freshman linebacker, hands a signed picture to Teyton Hicks.
Love continues to lead the team in scoring and rebounding, averaging 16.4 points and 10.9 rebounds per game, while Stephanie Helgeson is averaging 10.4 points. As a team, Southern Miss is averaging 69.3 points and 40.7 rebounds per game, while shooting 45.8 percent from the field and 66.8 percent from the line. The Lady Eagles have connected on 88-of-270 from behind the arc. SMU, winners of its last six, comes into the game with a 14-7 Indoor track in Notre Dame Invitational, All day, South Bend, Ind.
Sunday
Men’s tennis vs. UNLV, 11 a.m., Las Vegas, Nev. Women’s basketball vs. Tulsa, Noon, Reed Green Coliseum Softball vs. Central Arkansas, 5:30 p.m., Oak Grove High School
Monday
Men’s golf in Mardi Gras Invitational, All day, New Orleans, La.
record overall and 7-1 in league play, after a 68-52 win over Rice. Brittany Gilliam paced four Mustangs in double figure scoring with 14 points, followed by Christine Elliott with 11, Delisha Wills and LaShandra Hill who each had 10 points. Coach Rhonda Rompola is in her 18th season at the helm of SMU and returns eight letterwinners, including three starters from last year’s team. Brittany Gilliam leads SMU in scoring and rebounding, averaging 14.2 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. Delisha Wills adds 12.0 points per game. The Mustangs are averaging 69.0 points and 40.6 rebounds per game, while shooting 42.6 percent from the field and 68.1 percent from the charity stripe. This is the sixth meeting between the two teams and Southern Miss trails the series 4-1. Following the SMU game, the Lady Eagles host Tulsa in a televised game on CSS, Sunday, Feb. 8, at 12 p.m. In honor of National Girls and Women in Sports Day, all females get into the game for $1. The first 100 females will receive a special gift.
Gerald West 5-11, 175 Lbs. Mobile, AL (Faith Academy)
Tracy Lampley 5-9, 170 lbs. Waynesboro, Miss (Wayne County)
Lady Eagles battle SMU for first Special to the Printz
while.” “I’m just glad it’s over,” Bradford agreed. “And I’m sure my family is glad it’s over.”
running back
defensive back
Eagles drop road game to ECU, 82-79 Special to the Printz East Carolina sunk 12 of 29 3-point shots and the Pirates down the Southern Miss Golden Eagles 82-79 in Greenville, N.C. Wednesday night. Southern Miss’s Courtney Beasley had 23 points and 13 rebounds, R.L. Horton scored 18, and Jeremy Wise and Craig Craft added 16 and 14, respectively. The game was close in the first half, until a 21-12 run by the Pirates helped them pull ahead
Next Game:
to a 41-31 halftime lead. The Eagles erased the first half deficit by cutting the Pirates’ lead to one point by the 15 minute mark, but a couple of 3-point shots late in the game put East Carolina on top for good. The Eagles fell to 13-8 overall and 3-4 in Conference USA play with the loss. East Carolina improved to 11-10 overall and 3-5 in conference play. The Eagles will try to rebound when they host UAB Saturday at 5 p.m. at Reed Green Coliseum.
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Tonight @5 p.m. Reed Green Coliseum