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CALENDAR Friday, November 9, 2012
Homecoming 2012
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Homecoming Weekend Events Friday, November 9
(Orange & Green Day) • 10:10 am –12:10 pm Homecoming Convocation (Gaither Gym) • Noon - 6 pm Homecoming “Stop-n-Shop” CLICK HERE to view flyer (The Set) • 1 pm –3 pm “Opponent Doesn’t Matter” Pep Rally (Wahnish Way) ***Judging of The Buildings from 3pm-5pm*** • 6 pm – 10 pm Friday Night Strikes!!! Snake Walk/Rattler Strike (from The Set to Bragg Stadium) • 6 pm –10 pm President’s Gala
Employment
Honoring 125 Outstanding FAMUANS (Lawson Center) • 8:30pm -10:30pm Homecoming Gospel Concert (Gaither Gym)
Saturday, November 10
• 8 am – 11 am The Sound of Music: Rattlers on Parade/Judging of Floats • Noon - 2 pm President’s Pre-Game Pep Rally (Faculty Clubhouse) • Noon – 3 pm Homecoming “Tailgate/Trailgate” @ The Alumni Village Hosted by Joe Bullard (Rattler Football Practice Field) • 3 pm – 6:30 pm Homecoming Game, FAMU vs. North Carolina Central (Bragg Stadium)
• 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Arthur Thompson Scholarship Post-Game Barbeque Faculty Clubhouse • 7 pm – 8 pm Backyard Party - Open Air Concert Featuring Raheem Devaughn & Doug E. Fresh powered by The Phat Cat Players (Rattler Football Practice Field) • 10 pm – 2 am “125 Super Fest” Featuring Rick Ross Presented by ClubNet360.com (Lawson Center)
Sunday, November 11
• Noon – 4 pm Rattler Fever Clean-Up (Bragg Stadium & The Set)
Bartenders Wanted!!! $250/day potential. No experience necessary. Training provided age 18+ okay. Call (800) 965-6520 ext. 189
Submission Guidelines To place an announcement in the Calendar, email your submission to famuancalendar@ gmail.com at least two days prior to the desired publishing issue. All submissions must include the student organization along with information in paragraph format to include “who, what, when and where.” A contact number and email address are required to correspond with the individual submitting announcements. If you do not desire that number to be published with the announcement, indicate so in your emailed submission and provide an alternate method for readers to obtain more information. If you do not follow the paragraph format, then your submission will not be published.
Rattlers network at medical conference Purhnel Meek Staff Writer Seven Florida A&M students headed to San Jose, Calif., Tuesday to compete in the largest professional biomedical research conference for minority students. The Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students is designed to encourage underrepresented minority students in the STEM (Science, Technology, Education, Mathematics) field to pursue advanced training in the biomedical and behavioral sciences and provide faculty mentors and advisers with resources for facilitating students’ success. “A conference of this nature helps to develop students’ networking skills and encourage academic growth outside of the classroom,” said Staci Brown, a physics graduate and Ph.D. candidate. “This conference also facilitates an opportunity for students to meet recruiters for future academic and professional endeavors in person.” An array of recruiters and professionals assisted in
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developing students’ biomedical research skills and enhancing their professional development skills. ”The myriad amounts of opportunities at the conference are free to take if an individual comes prepared to socialize, interact and explore,” said Zachary Walker, a graduating biology student. “I am elated to have the chance to showcase my talents to numerous administrators and advocate the talent and expertise at Florida A&M University.” The ABRCMS is an opportunity to build a network. It gives students an opportunity to gain insight into what different programs are looking at when they select students for summer internships and graduate programs. “This experience will help students decide what graduate university and programs they would like to attend in order to complete the next step in their education,” said Shanalee Gallimore, a molecular biology graduate. “Often times, as students, we would not get the opportunity to speak one-on-one with the presidents of institutions, physicians such as Dr. Ben Carson and various researchers who are doing groundbreaking research. This national
conference gives us that type of opportunity and more.” Students had a chance to explore different areas of science and gain information, which will help them see what type of contributions they are able to make to STEM in the future. The future of STEM has been given light and has been shining brighter since the Florida-Georgia Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation has been involved with the program. Along with providing mentorship to undergraduate students, FGLSAMP also funds trips for students to attend conferences. As the seven students embarked on a journey across the nation to present their research, they were in the process of finalizing their speeches and mentally conditioning themselves for the competition. Although there is only one “first place” winner, each individual is representing the university as a whole and positioning themselves among some of the best and brightest scholars in the nation. To follow the group’s progress, visit ABRCMS on Twitter or their website www.abrcms.org.
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Homecoming 2012
NEWS
Friday, November 9, 2012
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Coach Joe steps out
Alvin McBean/The Famuan Former head football coach Joe Taylor walked the sideline during a MEAC game against Hampton. This will be his final season coaching at Florida A&M. Frank Peterman Sports Editor Joe Taylor will not coach in Florida A&M’s homecoming game Saturday. Defensive coordinator Earl Homes is acting head coach of the team until further notice. Taylor, 62, announced his retirement as head coach last week but was relieved of all coaching duties Thursday. Taylor said he wanted to retire immediately because he did not want his retirement to be a distraction to the team in its last two games. “With the enormous amount of coverage that my retirement has been receiving, I felt it was best to step aside and let the team focus on the last two games,” Taylor said, according to a release by FAMU Sports Information. Taylor said, in an earlier interview, that it has been “a Hall of Fame coaching career.” This year was his first losing season since
coaching Howard University in the late ‘80s. Taylor’s streak of 25 winning seasons has come to an end. He will retire with an overall record of 233-96-4. Taylor made several stops along his coaching career before coming to FAMU, including Howard, Virginia Union University and Hampton University. Taylor is one of the winningest coaches in black college football and Football Championship Subdivision history. He won four Black College National Football Championships, four Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) National Championships and six MEAC Championships in his illustrious coaching career. Taylor had a 35-19 record at FAMU. He led the Rattlers to back-to-back, eight-win seasons and a share of the MEAC Championship in 2010. Taylor helped FAMU extensively in recruiting. FAMU won the NCAA award for biggest
Academic Progress Rate (APR) improvement in 2009, largely because of better recruiting. Taylor’s retirement comes as a shock to players, like senior running back Eddie Rocker. Rocker, a fourth-year criminal justice student from Ocala, was given a scholarship from Taylor four years ago. “It would’ve been special for us to close out the remainder of the season with coach Taylor, but he taught us that we have to deal with situations like men, regardless of whether we have control of them or not,” Rocker said. “We still have the same team.” Senior wide receiver Lenworth Lennon said he wishes that the team could have sent Taylor out on a better note. However, he also said that Taylor’s retirement has given the team a spark. Taylor will take on an advising role in the athletic department until his contract expires Jan. 4 . He will help to oversee football operations for FAMU.
Professor taken to hospital Students said part-time educator complained of pain before paramedics were called Donovan Harrell Staff Writer At around 6:30 p.m. Thursday, paramedics and Florida A&M Police officers responded to a call that a teacher in Tucker Hall was suffering from a possible stroke. Students leaving the building were distraught and surprised by the incident. According to them, halfway through their world history class, instructor Jean Deese nearly lost consciousness after momentarily losing his balance in the middle of a lesson. One student, Carrie Hopkinson, left Tucker Hall in tears. “He’s always in pain,” said the sophomore landscape and design student from Ontario, Canada. “He would always tell us that if we were as old as he is, we wouldn’t want to live.”
Also among the students was sophomore philosophy and religion student Rodney Mackey from Plant City, Fla., and Jean Mackeneley, a third-year biology student. They said that Deese was sweating profusely and trembling, but remained resilient. “He was trying to power through it and teach,” Mackey said. “He was refusing to go.” A FAMU police officer said a student who she believed to be Allen Copeland made the call to paramedics. She praised him for being “calm,” “collected,” and “responsible.” “That student really impressed me,” the officer said. The students also chuckled after hearing that Deese said that he still planned a test for them next week.
Karl Etters/The Famuan Emergency officials load adjunct history professor Jean Deese into an ambulance following an in-class emergency Thursday evening.
Former Rattler is killed instantly after being shot during home invasion Donovan Harrell Staff Writer Amber T. Johnson’s Instagram bio holds a chilling message: “I’m the one who has to die, when it’s time for me to die. So let me live my life the way I want to.” Those words haunt her friends, former classmates and Diamond Dancers. Johnson was killed during an apparent home invasion around 2:00 a.m. Tuesday in the 1400 block of Stefani
Circle in Cantonment, Fla., according to the Escambia County Sherriff’s Office. Her boyfriend, Justin Stanley, was wounded and taken to the hospital after police arrived at the scene. Investigators found a large amount of narcotics in the residence. They are looking for a silver, four-door, 2008 model Sedan with a Florida tag 284NIH that was involved in the shooting. Johnson, along with Leah Castro, was one of the founding members of Florida A&M’s Diamond Dancers. Castro was
the captain for the dance troupe. Karen Colston, who was the adviser for the Diamond Dancers when Johnson was attending FAMU, said Johnson was a well-liked dancer and a beautiful, young lady with a wonderful personality. “She went above and
beyond just participating and being a dancer with the organization,” Colston said. “She served in the capacity of manager and adviser to the group.” Johnson was passionate about the dancers and is credited with choreographing many of their routines, some of which are still used today. She was also the first to suggest that the dancers provide community service around Tallahassee, Castro said. Johnson
See JOHNSON p. 4
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NEWS
Friday, November 9, 2012
Homecoming 2012
famuannews@gmail.com
Tamisha Hawkins/ The Famuan Students teach the Rattler 1-2-5 Strut. The new dance will showcase the university’s tradition. Sharon Johnson Correspondeny Alvin McBean/ The Famuan A variety of good eats can be found among FAMU’s homecoming vendors.
Vendors feed fans Sharon Johnson Correspondent Leading up to the homecoming game, vendors set up their food tents and trailers down Wahnish Way near Gaither Gymnasium’s parking lot and behind Bragg Memorial Stadium on Perry Street. The arrival of the food vendors is among the most anticipated parts of Florida A&M’s homecoming. Students, alumni, guests and community members look forward to indulging in “homecoming food.” Bev’s Jerk Center, a restaurant owned by Beverly Johnson, has been operating out of Atlanta for 11 years. Johnson’s restaurant brings the island to Tallahassee, serving oxtails, jerk, stew and curry chicken. Bev’s Jerk Center has a unique menu that is appreciated by customers who enjoy island food. “We enjoy coming to FAMU for this event,” Johnson said. “We are here every year.” Many people enjoy Johnson’s visit as well. “I’m so glad that there is a vendor during homecoming that has island food,” said Jasmine Neal, a second-year criminal justice student from Ft. Lauderdale. Serena King of Serena’s Mobile Foods Inc. has been part of FAMU’s homecoming festivities for the last 12 years. “We have been in business for 15 years and coming here to homecoming for 12,” King said. “I love the atmosphere, and we make a lot of money.” King’s restaurant is located in Jacksonville. In 2002, her restaurant won a garlic shrimp cook-off. In addition to garlic shrimp, Serena’s menu also includes fried chicken tenders and funnel cake. “Every year, I can’t wait to get funnel cake from Serena’s Mobile,” said Stephanie Daniels, a fourth-year psychology student from Dallas. “A funnel cake is the only food I buy from the vendors that come out during homecoming. They’re my guilty pleasure.” Elsie’s Place Concession is one of most popular vendors during homecoming because of its polish sausages. Elsie’s Place has been open for 20 years and has attended FAMU’s homecoming
for 15. Elsie’s Place travels to different HBCUs and sells food at different festivals. Customers line up to get their hands on one of its sausages with all the fixings. Jason Smith, a third- year English student from Tampa, said Elsie’s sausages are some of the best he has ever had. “I like to dress mine up with mustard, peppers and a ton of onions,” Smith said. Mister BAR-B-QUE sells barbecue chicken, fried wings, seafood and its famous lemonade and punch in big plastic cartons with lids. Its permanent location is in Cocoa, and it has been open since 1988. Owner Cleatrice Price is friendly and accommodating, which keeps customers coming back. “I love Mister’s,” said Janet Williams, a recent FAMU alumna. “Every year, I come here, and if I’m not really hungry, I’ll get one of those jumbo lemonades. The owner is so nice and she personally takes your orders.” Danielle Stewart, a fourth-year engineering student from Jacksonville, likes the way Mister’s seasons its wings, although eating them can get messy. “The wings at Mister’s are always seasoned perfectly,” Stewart said. “And they always make sure you have enough napkins.” Price said that coming to FAMU’s homecoming is no longer about making a profit. “I enjoy the togetherness and family atmosphere of this university,” Price said. “I love seeing new people and the genuine appreciation they have.
Alvin McBean/ The Famuan Vendor Mike Lowe explains his menu.
Rattlers strut Tamisha Hawkins Staff Writer Students will soon see the 1-2-5 Rattler Strut at the Homecoming Convocation and halftime of the football game. “I love to dance, so I think I should be interested in learning the Rattler 1-2-5 Strut,” said Richard Harris, a freshman from Miami. About 60 students shared Gaither Gymnasium on Thursday afternoon, preparing for homecoming weekend. On the front side, about 30 students strutted to silent tunes with a dance instructor leading the way. Elgie G. Sherrod, a dance instructor at FAMU, is the choreographer of the Rattler 1-25 Strut. This line dance is the beginning of a new era at FAMU. “I created it in honor of the 125th FAMU anniversary,” Sherrod said. “And I put in movement that I thought represented FAMU’s legacy and tradition.” Sherrod knows that line dancing is about unity and bringing people together from different backgrounds and cultures. Line dances are sometimes done at weddings and large celebrations. “A lot of the movements, I thought, reflected the tradition of the Marching ‘100’ or the tradition of African-American people in terms of our culture,” Sherrod said. The strut involves basic dance steps – side leans and the infamous Rattler strike. Not at all long, the line dance pays homage to the uplifting of the university during tough times. “I chose James Brown’s ‘Super Bad’ because [his] music and the legacy of it talks about AfricanAmerican people and people of its ancestry,” Sherrod said. “It helps them to claim their greatness and their African heritage or tradition.” “Watch me; I got it” are some of the lyrics of empowerment that Sherrod spoke of. Brown’s music is dominant, energetic and
encouraging. He commands his audience to “listen and tells of all these things that he is capable of doing.” “I taught it to many different factions or many different segments of the university,” Sherrod said. Various athletic departments, such the FAMU tennis, softball and cheerleading teams, both chapters of the alumni association
Tamisha Hawkins/ The Famuan The Rattler 1-2-5 Strut.
and Interim President Larry Robinson know the Rattler 1-25 Strut. The dance has also been taught to some students at the FAMU Developmental Research School and a senior group at Gaither. “I was asked to help coordinate the entertainment for halftime since the Marching ‘100’ has been suspended,” said Sharon Saunders, FAMU chief communications officer. A committee comprising staff from the athletic department, Office of Student Activities and Student Government Association came up with the alternative concept. Audience participation and entertainment experience was the committee’s main focus. “[It will represent] a celebration of FAMU legacy and history, making a big, bold statement.”
Alumni concerned about homecoming, Classic costs Marcus Oliver Correspondent Florida A&M alumni in St. Augustine are angry about this year’s homecoming being back-to-back with the Florida Classic, saying in interviews this week that the cost to attend both might mean they have to miss one. Alumni in St. Augustine fear they will not be able to attend both the homecoming game in Tallahassee on Saturday and the Florida Classic game in Orlando on Nov. 17 because of the financial burden. “Why would they do this?” said Stacey Brown, a 1989 FAMU alumna. “I couldn’t understand it. It was getting to me, but nothing could be done.” Traditionally, Brown attends both
Johnson Castro said she met Johnson in the Paddyfote dormitory around four years ago. Castro saw a flier advertising auditions for the Diamond Dancers and joined. Both she and Johnson left FAMU about three years later due to financial issues. Castro said the loss of Johnson is overwhelming. “I never even thought this
homecoming and the Florida Classic, spending between $500 and $700 at each event on gas, vendors, lodging and food. The schedule changes this year means those expenses come one after another, which is tough for Brown, who works for the St. Johns County School Board. This year, because she has family in Tallahassee, Brown will attend homecoming instead of the Florida Classic to save on hotel costs. However, Willie Earl Sparrow Jr., a 2002 FAMU alumnus, will choose to go to the Classic instead because he believes Orlando is less expensive and more family-oriented. “I have a family of five,” Sparrow said. “Me and my wife are young professionals. We can’t afford to take off two weeks in a row.”
could happen,” Castro said. “I’m in shock, and I’m still in denial. I just spoke to her the day before she passed.” Castro said the Diamond Dancers were like sisters, with Johnson being the “goofiest,” sweetest and the strongest of the group. “You would never see her break a tear for anything,” she said. Johnson admitted to not having many female friends before
Even though Brown and Sparrow decided to go to different events, all alumni interviewed agreed that the cost makes it impossible to attend both, which is frustrating for some alumni, including Brown, Sparrow and Dwaine Fisher. Each considers homecoming and the Florida Classic important events to attend annually to reconnect with friends, fraternity brothers, sorority sisters and other classmates. Fisher, a 1981 FAMU alumnus and member of Alpha Phi Alpha, said he will go the Classic because hotel costs are “ludicrous” in Tallahassee. He and other alumni agreed that the cost to attend homecoming is higher and he will skip it this weekend. “You have to pay $200 a night,” Fisher said. “Then, they snap on a two-night
joining the Diamond Dancers. It was at Johnson’s birthday party two years ago when Castro first recalled Johnson’s emotional “wall” dropping. “That was when she felt she could actually trust all of us,” Castro said. Symeria Apedo, a third-year criminal justice student from Miami, said Johnson was selfless and kind. Johnson helped Apedo move out of her dorm her
minimum.” The FAMU public relations staff did not return two phone calls seeking comment about the schedule change that placed both events back-to-back this year. Alumni said the absence of the Marching “100” at homecoming and the Florida Classic this year had nothing to do with their decision to skip one event. They said they wanted to show more support for their alma mater but just could not meet the financial burden. “Both the football team and the college need our support more than ever because of the negative press that we are receiving,” Brown said. “Both games should be packed with sellout crowds. You do not leave a person when they are down. So is the same for FAMU.”
freshman year. Shana Bullard, a senior criminal justice student from Miami, believes that Johnson was just in the wrong place at the wrong time when the incident happened. “She was very nice and never had nothing bad to say about anybody,” Bullard said. “I don’t think it had anything to do with her. It was just who she was with – the wrong person.” Sta’cha Beckton, a junior pre-
pharmacy student from Daytona Beach, remembers Johnson as a warm, selfless person. “She always had a smile on her face and always made someone else smile,” Beckton said. “She would do anything for anybody.” Greif-stricken, Castro said that she can still hear Johnson telling her to “stop crying, stay strong and get it together.”
Homecoming 2012
OPINIONS Friday, November 9, 2012
A letter to Zoe
Cornell Wedge Correspondent Dear Zoe Saldana, I know lately you have received many letters. In this day and age, you’ve probably received more emails. But I just wanted to write you a letter from a man’s perspective, one who has enjoyed you in many roles, exploring your comedic side in “Guess Who” as well as your alternative side as Uhura in “Star Trek.” However, I wanted to address the news of your recent role playing Nina Simone in an upcoming film. Have you seen a Popeyes commercial lately? I know you do not eat there because of your nice and slim frame, but you cannot escape its commercials. A central character is Annie the Chicken Queen. I know AfricanAmerican women love to be recognized as queens, but this is not the queen AfricanAmericans want. They have been trying to wash away the stereotypes of African-American women for years, but Annie just opens up the floodgates once again. The attitude and wording of the commercial is unrealistic. Annie said, “I work my fanny off making this chicken perfect, and they practically give it away.” But Annie is not making that chicken. Underpaid college students and Popeye’s employees are. No one speaks those phrases anymore, but Popeye’s said that Annie “expresses the heart and soul of the Popeye’s brand.” I thought we moved away from the Aunt Jemima characters. Zaldana, you have African-Americans retreating from your portrayal of Simone. I know how the movie industry works and that there are far too few movie roles for AfricanAmericans, but this is one you could have skipped. A biopic is supposed to be as true as possible. You have watched Will Smith play the role of Muhammad Ali and Denzel Washington play the role of Malcolm X. You should have known this is not the role for you. Billie Holiday would suit you better. I cannot put all of the blame on you, though. Director Cynthia Mort had the final say. But I just want you to know, as a black man, I am not happy. You are stunning to look at, but this will not be the stunning performance I am looking forward to viewing. It is ironic that the same cause Simone fought for her entire life is what you are portraying. What a world we live in.
Bridging the gap Omar Stewart Correspondent Let’s build a bridge. Florida A&M’s Student Government Association is a bridge that leads to nowhere. Our SGA and student body have much in common. They are mostly African-American students who want to achieve success. So why is there a gap between the two? Are SGA members more focused on being elitists than being a vessel of the student body? A percentage of FAMU’s student body believes that SGA models a conservative behavior toward the students and that information regarding SGA positions is not publicized. An imbalance of anything, even if its results are deemed good, is counterproductive. Being concerned with your social status on campus rather than the prestige to be a voice and service to FAMU’s student body is backward thinking. If this is
the reason a gap exists between SGA and the student body, then there are selfish behaviors that need to be addressed. Communication seems to be the main issue in the gap between SGA and students. Some students think that communication should be addressed but that the blame should not solely be aimed at SGA. “Communication is a two-way street,” said Maurice Jackson, a third-year accounting student from Miami and SGA member. “SGA does publicize what they have to offer to the student body.” Jackson said, however, the student body fails to attend what SGA offers. “SGA can improve their communication with the student body,” he said. “But it is students that have to be attentive and engage with SGA more.” Stephen Gordon, a thirdyear business administration student from Chicago, also feels that communication is a two-way street, but he said it is not only publicizing events and meetings. “SGA should do a better job of keeping the student body aware of the different meetings they hold,” Gordon said. “But
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SGA has been very effective in communicating with the student body by opening the chamber.” Communication is how people conduct themselves and their demeanor. “There are certain SGA members that live up to negative connotations about SGA,” said Ernest Hooker, a senior business administration student from Miami Gardens. “Some members could branch out more to the student body.” The things in life that are seen as issues can only remain problematic if they are never challenged. If students do not address the flaws of SGA, then who will? The separation between SGA and the student body exists because of the lack of effort between the two sides. If a percentage of students want to be engaged in the politics of the university, they have to become active. The students have to be accountable for the change they desire. SGA should continue to create more effective ways to engage the student body to present a more family-oriented SGA. If SGA and the student body are determined to work together, then they will create an amazing university and be a voice of reason later on in life.
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Credit: Adam Zyglis, The Buffalo News After a long, grueling campaign season, America has chosen its winner. Many are now experiencing a “voter’s hangover.” In the absence of negative campaign commercials, door-todoor political activists and pamphlets on getting “souls to the polls,” some are breathing a sigh of relief now that the dog-fight is over.
The disease of racism Purhnel Meek Correspondent When most people think of racism, they think black and white. However, the boundaries of racism extend much further than those solid colors. While many would love to support the notion that racism is dead, this is not the case. Modern day bigots are usually frowned upon due to our societal standards and eclectic cultural climate, therefore, those who spread hate tend to do so in a manner that will not deem their acts as “unconstitutional.” One way in which hate is spread is through tradition. The discrimination disease is one that is passed down through each generation and embeds itself within the mentality of the sick. The disease does not have to be passed through
verbal resentment. It can be spread through subtleties, such as disassociating oneself from particular races. Segregation is among the worst kinds of discrimination because those who were initially free subconsciously become introduced to the virus. The side effects do not seem prevalent, yet after infected, one begins to justify the separation and view it as natural behavior. There is a subconscious spirit of segregation here in Tallahassee in where the color lines are literally drawn by railroad tracks. As one stands downtown – which is known as Florida State University’s side – and says “the other side of the tracks,” it is a reference to Florida A&M. As homecoming neared, many FSU students prepared their vacation so that it would coincide with escaping Tallahassee for “urban week.” “I know a lot of people jumping at the chance to leave during FAMU’s homecoming,” said Ariadna Castillo, an engineering student at FSU. “It’s not so much about racism. I’ve just heard my friends complain about getting ‘hit on’ a little
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Opinions writer neede
more than they would like.” Racism is not confined to regular situations. Just look at the disparity in the number of whites and minorities behind bars. Yes, criminals should be punished, but at what cost? Although minorities make up 33 percent of the U.S. population, more than 60 percent of those incarcerated are minorities, according to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics. Constitutional rights are continually denied as minority children are funneled out of public schools and into juvenile and criminal justice systems. In many cases, children are penalized for minor school infractions such as dress code violations. This type of injustice may not strike one as racist, but it does force one to reevaluate the policies of judges and law enforment officials. It is imperative to remain impartial. We do not live in the colonial era. Times are changing. Apartheid has ended. Vagrancy laws are not in effect. Jim Crow is history. American slavery is dead, but racism is still alive, and the discrimination disease continues to infect too many minds.
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The Famuan, an Associated Collegiate Press 2003 Pacemaker Finalist, is published Monday, Wednesday and Friday during the fall and spring semesters. The opinions do not reflect the administration, faculty, or staff of the University. The editorials are the expressed opinions of the staff and columnists. The Famuan is funded partially by activities and services fees.
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COMICS
Friday, November 9, 2012
Homecoming 2012
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Hardwork pays off Illustration by
Arnelia Waters
Rick and Bill hit the Hill
Special to The Famuan Rick Ross (left) and Bill Bellamy will both be making appearances at FAMU’s homecoming. Domonique Davis and Gina Cherelus Staff Writers Bill Bellamy will host Florida A&M’s Homecoming Superfest concert on Saturday in the Al Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center, featuring rap artist Rick Ross. Bellamy is an actor, comedian and creator of the phrase “booty call.” Bellamy has played roles on HBO and MTV and starred in films such as “Love Jones,” “How to be a Player” and “Any Given Sunday.” The Rutgers graduate, who majored in economics, never imagined that he would become an entertainer. Using what he learned in college, he created a brand for himself. That brand was comedy. “When you think about where we come from and what we’re doing, I never thought being on a college campus, I’d be an entertainer,” Bellamy said. “Next thing you know, I became this famous comedian personality guy.” Bellamy said he is honored to be part of FAMU’s homecoming. “FAMU is a big school and students are gonna come out
full throttle,” Bellamy said. “It’s always been one of the schools I admire from afar, so I am gonna make it a lot of fun and make everybody have a good time.” Bellamy also gave advice to students aspiring to get into the entertainment business. “Sometimes you don’t have to know the destination,” Bellamy said. “You just need to know your journey and where you wanna be so you can start pointing your compass in that direction.” The Superfest concert begins Saturday at 10 p.m. Uncle Luke will perform and Ross will headline the concert. “Anytime you come to a historical school like FAMU as an artist, you can’t ask for more than that,” Ross said. Ross, who is the founder of the expanding record label Maybach Music Group, announced that he may surprise students with some special guests. “I want to keep giving artists an opportunity to live their dreams and do what they love,” Ross said. “I want to extend the opportunity I received.” Ross graduated from Carol
City Senior High School and attended Albany State University, a historically black college, on a football scholarship. Ross said he feels a special connection with FAMU students. “I feel at one with the them,” Ross said. “We listen to the same things and come from the same places. That’s who you make your records for.” Although some students felt it was unfair for them to be charged to attend the concert, others were not deterred by the ticket prices that range from $47.50 to $85.00. “I don’t care that we have to pay to see the concert,” said Shawntierra Clark, a 21-yearold third-year political science student. “I mean, come on, it’s Rick Ross. This is my first time seeing him live.” According to Ross, students can look forward to a collection of hit records during the concert and should know that he is “just going to have a good time” on stage. “I’m excited,” Ross said. “I already got my outfit ready. When you come here, you have to make a movie.”
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Homecoming 2012 LIFESTYLES Friday, November 9, 2012
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Rattlers celebrate win, homecoming Jasmine E. Harris Staff Writer The highest of seven hills is celebrating two historic events – the 125th anniversary of Florida A&M during homecoming week and the re-election of President Barack Obama. With celebrity appearances, high-class events and the aromas of fried fish, funnel cakes and jumbo turkey legs, many Rattlers from around the world have flocked back to participate in the homecoming festivities. “I am truly excited to be able to experience FAMU’s 125th Homecoming celebration,” said Erneshia Brown, a senior administrative information management student from Royal Palm Beach. “Despite the negative attention the school has received over the past year, we always unite and strive for excellence, even through the biggest of obstacles.” Although friends, family and alumni have come out in droves to help mark this year of history, homecoming was not the only reason students assembled this week. Tuesday marked another significant day in history – Election Day. Many students showed the same excitement for voting as they did toward homecoming festivities. “I don’t think homecoming should serve as a distraction,” said Reginald Ellis, assistant professor of history. “I think that with it being the 125th anniversary, it was great that voting was incorporated with homecoming.” Ellis hopes that homecoming helped promote voting and believes that the students’ choices to vote in this election spurred more excitement.
Graphic By Ashley McCray
Florida A&M is celebrating two historic moments during homecoming week – its 125th anniversary and the re-election of President Barack Obama.
“I think that with the way the football season has gone in terms of the record and the fact that the ‘100’ isn’t there has kind of dampened the 125th anniversary,” Ellis said. Around this time four years ago, Obama made history as the first African-American president elected in the U.S., and with the support of the “youth vote,” students such as those at FAMU helped Obama enter office.
According to the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, the 2008 election had the thirdhighest showing of young voters, which is classified as adults between 18 and 25. Around 22 million young adults voted at the polls, which is two million more than those who voted in the 2004 election. Ion Sancho, the supervisor of elections for Leon County, said it was pivotal for young people
to have their voices heard. “The youth vote is always important to the nation as a whole because it brings a different perspective, enthusiasm and idealism that needs to be brought to the public,” Sancho said. “It’s hard to show that division and wisdom without the young vote.” FAMU students made sure their opinions were heard and were very adamant about
reminding others of the importance of voting. Jake Nounoume, a sophomore biology student from Riviera Beach, said there was strong pressure to vote on campus. “Every day, someone new was telling me to go out and vote while I was on campus,” Nounoume said. “I think that students here have a great and clear mindset about what they wanted and were very passionate about this election.”
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SPORTS
Friday, November 9, 2012
Homecoming 2012
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Holmes to coach Rattlers Marc Betancourt Correspondent The Rattlers (3-6, 3-3 MEAC) return to Bragg Memorial Stadium for their homecoming game Saturday against the North Carolina Central Eagles (6-3, 5-1 MEAC). Despite last week’s loss at North Carolina A&T, the Rattlers are optimistic about their last two games – Saturday’s homecoming game and the Florida Classic in Orlando against BethuneCookman. The homecoming game will be the last time some players will suit up at Bragg Stadium. Florida A&M head football coach Joe Taylor wants the team to stay confident. Taylor retired Thursday as head coach. “Homecoming is all about pride,” Taylor said. Winning the final two games would give the team something to build on going into next season. Taylor will not coach Saturday. Defensive coordinator Earl Holmes will be the “active” coach for the remainder of the season. Holmes played for FAMU in the ‘90s and was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1996. He played 10 NFL seasons for three different teams before returning to FAMU as a defensive coordinator. The offense is focused on finishing drives and scoring
Alvin McBean/The Famuan This will be the last homecoming football game for seniors to strap up and take the field.
touchdowns. Last week against North Carolina A&T, the offense could not capitalize on its opportunities. Robert Hartley, a fifth-year political science student from Lake City, was pleased with the performance of the offensive line. “We must prove ourselves and prove we are better than our record shows,” Hartley said. The offense should have a spark with the return of starting quarterback Damien Fleming. The offense has struggled from self-inflicted wounds, such as penalties, turnovers and mental mistakes in the red zone. The defense played well last week, forcing three field goals and allowing only one touchdown. Senior linebacker Brandon Hepburn, a fifth-year biochemistry student, wants the defense to play as a unit. “I want the defense to show up in full faculty this weekend,” Hepburn said. Players and coaches are confident that they can compete with anyone in the MEAC. They have to show up as a complete unit and play all four quarters. More than a dozen seniors will buckle their chin straps for the last time at Bragg Stadium on Saturday. Kickoff is at 3 p.m.
Lady Rattlers prepare for new season
Alvin McBean/The Famuan The Lady Rattlers basketball team shares a moment of laughter during Pandemonium, an event promoting the basketball program. Asia Johnson Correspondent Following the most successful season since 1995-96, the Lady Rattlers basketball team wants to bring home the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Championship. Thanks to graduation and injuries, the Lady Rattlers only have three players returning from last year’s team.
Head women’s basketball coach LeDawn Gibson, who joined the program in 2008, is counting on returning players Jasmine Grice, Kimberly Sparkman and Keturah Martin to carry the team. “We are working to get better,” Gibson said. “I’m working on getting the girls to buy into the system and believe in themselves.” Last season, Gibson coached the Lady Rattlers to a 21-win season en route to being named MEAC
Coach of the Year. The team went 14-2 in the MEAC, 8-3 at home and 12-4 on the road. The Lady Rattlers placed third in the MEAC Tournament. Under Gibson, Antonia Bennett won the MEAC Player of the Year, and Qiana Donald won the MEAC Defensive Player of the Year. Gibson said five players are sitting out with injuries, ranging from shoulder injuries to torn ACLs.
Martin, a criminal justice student from Memphis, Tenn., said the team is quicker and more disciplined this year. As a top defensive player, Martin will play several positions and grab the rebounds the team needs to be successful. “The picture is bigger this year,” Martin said. “It’s bigger than the MEAC. We are looking forward to competing on the big stage and winning an NCAA Championship.”
Though Sparkman is the only returning starter, she is still optimistic about the team’s chances. “We expect to come out with great intensity,” Sparkman said. “Our audience should expect a very exciting season from this year’s women’s basketball team.” For the Lady Rattlers, the season begins 11:30 a.m. Friday as they take on the Jacksonville University Dolphins in Jacksonville.
Sports Briefs Rattlers start regular season The Florida A&M men’s basketball team will start its regular season Friday in Houston against the University of Houston Cougars. The game starts at noon.
FAMU Volleyball undefeated The Lady Rattlers women’s volleyball team is currently undefeated in MEAC play. The team will take on the Bethune-Cookman University Wildcats on Sunday. This is the second time the team has played B-CU. FAMU won the first game in three sets.
Salif Kante represents FAMU
No. 10 FSU takes VA Tech
Salif Kante defeated Abdoul Ouattara of the Ivory Coast on Monday in the African Nations Cup. Kante is representing his home country of Senegal and plays tennis for FAMU. Kante also defeated Mehdi Ziadi from Morocco.
The Florida State Seminoles took on Virginia Tech on Thursday in Blacksburg, Va. The Seminoles beat the Hokies 28-22 on a game-winning drive.