THE STUDENT VOICE OF FLORIDA AGRICULTURAL AND MECHANICAL UNIVERSITY
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www.TheFamuanOnline.com
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
VOL. 112 ISSUE 31
Medical herb could be legalized
Students want answers
LATESHIA MITCHELL STAFF WRITER
SHARI KARESH STAFF WRITER
Floridians suffering from illnesses that cause chronic pain and appetite loss may find relief if a bill legalizing medical marijuana is passed. Rep. Jeff Clemens (D-Lake Worth) is sponsoring House Joint Resolution 1407 that would allow Floridians to vote on the legalization of medical marijuana. HJR 1407 is the first bill to propose the legalization of medical cannabis or marijuana in Florida’s history. On March 10, Clemens held a press conference with his cosponsors, Rep. Rick Kriseman (D-St. Petersburg), and Rep. Mark Pafford (D-West Palm Beach), at the state capitol to introduce HJR 1407. Rep. Dwight Bullard (D-Miami) also co-sponsors the bill but was not present at the press conference. “There is no good reason for us to allow people to use synthetic drugs like Oxycontin, Methodone, Percocet, and Prozac, but ban them from using a natural, safer drug,” Clemens said. “Study after study has shown that the use of medicinal cannabis can help those suffering from debilitating diseases. Who could be against that?” “To me it makes absolutely no sense that we would not allow people to use a safer drug, something that helps with their issues, yet doesn’t cause all the problems that some of those prescription narcotics cause,” said Clemens. The amendment, if passed, would appear on the 2012 ballot for the residents of Florida to put to a vote. Fifteen states and the District of Columbia allow the legal use of medical marijuana, according to the non-profit, think-tank Procon.org. In a recent poll conducted by
Two weeks after the Board of Trustees approved President James Ammons’ restructuring plans to cut 24 programs and trim the university’s budget, students are still confused and
MEDICAL 3
concerned about the fate of the university. A meeting between university officials and students to help clarify the changes to come was held at BL Perry room 200 on Tuesday. A sea of hands was raised after Ammons and Provost
Cynthia Hughes Harris spoke. Each student seemed anxious to learn more about the effect of the program cuts. “We took the time to look at the academic plans and the academic community,” Ammons said in the packed room. “This review led to
recommendations that will attract students that can become millennial FAMUans.” Ammons explained at the BOT meeting of what he meant by creating a new era Florida A&M.
Allergy meds recalled
Keenan Doanes The Famuan Allergy sufferers may have to find alternatives to Benadryl after Johnson & Johnson’s recall
LAUREN MCDADE STAFF WRITER It’s spring. For many students at Florida A&M, it is time to break out shorts and flip-flops and enjoy the warm weather. For others, though, it is time to stock up on tissue paper and sinus medicine: pollen is everywhere and allergy season is in full swing. However, those suffering from allergies may want to avoid leading allergy medicine Benadryl this year, as yet another batch of Johnson & Johnson products is recalled. In December 2009, the McNeil division of the Johnson & Johnson Corporation initiated
a recall of Tylenol products that would continue well into the next year and end with the return of more than 60 million products. On March 29, the recall was expanded for the sixth time, adding approximately 717,696 packages of medicine to the mounting total. “It’s scary,” said Shayla Spann, 21, a computer information sciences senior from Columbia, S.C. “I mean, Benadryl is one of the most widely used allergy medicines, and it’s allergy season. It’s springtime: the pollen’s out, flowers are blooming. People are going to turn to allergy medicine, and theirs is contaminated.” Originally, the rationale for the recalls was stated in a press
release as “a precautionary measure after an extensive review of past production records found instances where equipment cleaning procedures were insufficient or that cleaning was not adequately documented.” Johnson & Johnson’s recall, however, is due to ongoing complaints of musty or moldy smells in the medicine containers, company officials said. Johnson & Johnson has been investigating the origin of the odor at the prodding of the Food and Drug administration. In a recent press release, the company suggested that “the RECALL 3
Residents, students fear possible state job cuts RANATA HUGHES STAFF WRITER Area residents and students are concerned with Gov. Rick Scott’s budget proposal that calls for the elimination of almost 13,000 jobs over two years. In 2009, U.S. News ranked Tallahassee as one of the best places to find a job, seeing job growth in the areas of education, health services, hospitality, leisure and government. Yet it appears Tallahassee is about to be hit pretty hard
economically if Scott’s budget proposal, with tax cuts and state government layoffs, advances said Nathaniel Williams, a public administration professional from Orlando. “The massive cuts to the public sector in Tallahassee will cause serious damage to the local economy,” Williams said. “There will be less dollars to put into local businesses and services which will eventually cause a further shortfall of revenue for the state,” said Williams. On Feb. 7, Scott laid out a three-year budget proposal that
would, among other things,
Keenan Doanes The Famuan Gov. Rick Scott
eliminate 8,600 jobs in the fiscal year 2012, and 4,106 in the next year bringing total job cuts to 12,787. Those cuts are in addition to the elimination of 2,030 vacant positions to increase workforce efficiency, according to Politifact.org. As for the state employees who are fortunate enough to keep their jobs, they are set to experience benefit reductions. A poll conducted by a local marketing research firm, reported that 76 percent of local citizens think state employers STATE JOBS 3
Opinions
Lifestyles
Famuan staff members face-off on the ageold debate on the consumption of marijuana.
FAMU alumnus Akil DuPont sweeps in multiple awards for his groundbreaking film “Underground.”
Opinions|5
Lifestyles | 6
FORUM 4
NEWS BRIEFS UNIVERSITY FAMU has scheduled a press conference for 11:30 a.m. today to announce the launching of the university’s new online store, e- Rattler. com. FAMU’s new online store will afford Rattler students, faculty, alumni and supporters the opportunity to purchase specially designed apparel online. The press conference will be held on the steps of Lee Hall. Starting at 11 a.m., the first 100 individuals in attendance for the press conference will receive a free T-shirt. Area restaurants will distribute scratch-off cards for special offers on individual’s first online purchase. The general public is invited to attend. For more information, call 412-5211.
SOURCE: FLORIDA A&M
TODAY’S ONLINE CONTENT: “Southern Strategy Town hall meeting” by Tommy Hawkins Photo Gallery: “Football team defeats diabetes” by Royal Shepherd
WEATHER Today
91 61 Tuesday
91 63 Wednesday
91 59
2 Calendar
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Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Events and Announcements Announcements If you are currently a campus mailbox holder and will remain living on campus for the Fall 2011 semester and/or the 2011 summer session, please reserve your mailbox by Tuesday. If you do not reserve your mailbox by this date, your post office box ownership will be cancelled. You must show proof of housing and sign for your mailbox by the 2nd week of class Fall semester. The University and Cintas are sponsoring a Launch and Fashion Show for FAMU’s Online Store! Come out to the Set today (Wednesday) at 12:15 p.m. to experience COLLEGIATE COUTURE- “Famu Swag with an Ivy League Tag”. The fashion show will feature models from Epicurean! Fashion Experience, Faces Modeling Troupe and Images Modeling Troupe! Music, food, giveaways and more!
The Florida A&M Chapter of Active Minds is having a General Body Meeting on today (Wednesday) at 5 p.m. in Sunshine Manor. The E-board positions for the 2011 - 2012 school year will be announced. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact Rachelle Jean-Louis, LMHC at 850-599-3145.
To place an announcement in the Calendar, e-mail 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 will be published with the announcement, indicate so in your e-mailed 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 able to be published.
Classifieds Non-smoking female roommate to share 3 br/3 bth condo. Walking distance to FAMU. Share living room, kitchen and utilities. Rent includes cable, internet access & water. Furnished $440. Can be seen upon request. Call Lois at 813-503-6412 Attention Students! Need storage space for the summer? Reserve Now Great rates-air conditioned or Regular storage-Call now for details. Economy Storage West, 3005 West Tharpe Street, 576-6108 Bartenders Wanted!!! $250/day potential. No experience necessary. Training provided age 18+ okay. Call 800-965-6520 ext. 189
The Royal Ladies of Eternal Legendary Queens, Inc. will be hosting an interest meeting for prospective members on Oct. 13th from 7:09 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. in B.L. Perry room 205. For more information contact De’Ronye Thomas at 708-662-0350 or via email at elq_famu2005@yahoo.com
Religion Directory
PRAYER MEETING SUN. 6:30 p.m. TUE/FRI 11:30-12:30
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COLLEGIATE MINISTRY WALKING DISTANCE SHUTTLE
BIBLE STUDY
TUE 7:00 p.m.
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SUN. 7:45 a.m.
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WED. 6:30 p.m.
SUN. 9:45 a.m.
SUN. 7:30 a.m.
SUN. 11:00 a.m
THURS. 7:00 p.m. - 8:30
Bethel AME Church “Called to make a Difference.”
Jacob Chapel Baptist Church “The Blue Print.”
SECOND SERVICE
TUE. 12:00 p.m. WED. 7:00 P.M. THURS. 6:15 p.m. - 6:45
The
FARM, CONSERVE, AND PROTECT GLOBAL NATURAL RESOURCES
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APPLY NOW FOR 2012! www.peacecorps.gov Call our ECO Hotline: 404.562.3468
Corrections
ADDRESS Elder Joseph P. Manning 2122 Poppy Street (850)574-5605 www.cofmcogic.org
Rev. Dr. Julius H. McAllister 501 W. Orange Ave. (850) 576-7501
Rev. O. Jermaine Simmons, Sr. 2333 Lake Bradford Road (850) 574-3150 www.jacobchapel.org
Graduate School
No one like you. No place like this.
PEACE CORPS GROWS!
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Cathedral of Faith Ministries “ The Family Church Serving the Family of God.”
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Looking to satisfy your intellectual curiosity or jump start your career? The Graduate School at the University of North Florida offers a variety of distinctive programs that promote discovery, community-based learning and academic excellence to prepare you for a challenging and dynamic world. Through research, teaching and civic engagement, UNF’s distinguished faculty deliver individualized attention to ensure your growth and achievement. Our unique environment fosters diversity, scholarship and creativity, helping you to reach your fullest potential. Come visit The Graduate School to discover your path to success today. Rodrigo Cobos M.B.A. graduate
For more information on graduate programs, call (904) 620-1360 or visit www.unf.edu/graduateschool
TheFamuan Wednesday, April 20, 2011
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City goes wild for animals ANDREA GREGORY CORRESPONDENT National Earth Week is in full-swing and people around the country have their own ways of contributing to the well being of the planet. To celebrate, local animal lovers are being asked to adopt an orphaned animal. The Challenger Learning Center and IMAX Theater will host the “Born to be Wild” family fun day event on Saturday. The event’s theme is based on “Born to be Wild 3-D,” a new documentary movie produced by Warner Bros. Pictures and IMAX. Also, the Tallahassee Animal Shelter Foundation
MEDICAL Fabrizio, McLaughlin & Associates, a Republican firm that worked with Rick Scott’s gubernatorial campaign, 57 percent of Floridians support the legalization of medical marijuana. The language of HJR 1407 calls for 60 percent of voters to approve the amendment. Bradley Rogers, a graduating pharmacy student from Detroit, supports the use of medical marijuana in extreme cases where regular narcotics do not help the patient. “Medical marijuana is great for pain management and stimulating appetite. There Graphic are cases where By Kenya regular narcotics Mawusi do not help patients. They are too sick to eat and their pain is unbearable, in those cases I would encourage them to use medical marijuana.” “I am in support of medical marijuana because it helps terminallyill cancer patients deal with the pain,” said Marie Davis, an employee at Syntech, a fuel management company in Tallahassee. “If the patient is terminally-ill we should exhaust all avenues to improve their quality of
Courtesy Challenger Learning Center
will showcase adoptable pets for those who are interested in adopting. In one week, more than 100 animals were brought into the Tallahassee Animal Shelter, according to shelter officials.
life, however long or short it may be.” If some of the hype was taken off of how illegal it is, may be there wouldn’t be such a demand for it. Also, I believe if the state proposed it correctly, profit from marijuana would help the economy either by taxes of some sort or licensing to grow.” Other residents are unconvinced that medical marijuana is the answer regardless of the benefits. “With the only knowledge I possess being that of a drug that kills brain cells, I am opposed to the legalization of marijuana,” said Angel Rios Jr., a French and Spanish teacher at Rickards High school. “As a high school teacher, I have seen first hand the effects that this drug can have on the life of the individual using it and those around them. Rios does not think the law is neccesarily positive. “Based on that, I don’t think it is our job to find ways to make people feel better if it comes at a cost of other body functions being affected beyond repair,” said Rios.
LATESHIA MITCHELL
FAMUAN.METRO@GMAIL.COM
The St. Francis Wildlife Association will also be there to distribute information on how to get involved in wildlife rescue efforts. “Born to be Wild 3-D” is about second chances and how orphaned elephants and orangutans are rescued and raised by humans. This movie will give moviegoers a chance to see how two primatologist venture into the rainforest of Borneo and across the rugged Kenyan savanna to rehabilitate these animals and send them back into the wild, according to the official website. Narrated by Academy Award-winner Morgan Freeman, the documentary movie tells the story about what happens
to these animals when they are separated from their mothers and how they are cared for until they are fit to live on there own. “Spending so much time among the orphaned elephants and orangutans in this film was a life changing experience,” said producer/writer Drew Fellman. Saturday’s event will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Visitors may receive one free child admission for every regular adult ticket purchased for the 1p.m. General admission prices are $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and students with a valid ID. ANDREA GREGORY
FAMUAN.METRO@GMAIL.COM
RECALL
uncharacteristic odor is thought to be caused by the presence of trace amounts of chemicals called 2,4,6-tribromoanisole (TBA) and 2,4,6-trichloroanisole (TCA).” These chemicals are products that result from the breakdown of a pesticide the company used to treat the wooden pallets on which the products were housed. “Until the problem is fixed and I see the studies, I don’t think I’ll use the contaminated brands,” said Stanford Barnes, 22, a senior architecture student from Raleigh, N.C. “I personally am uncomfortable knowing that there are any traces of pesticides in my medicine. Simple fact: medicine shouldn’t have poison in it.” Barnes went on to say that while he didn’t plan on using the recalled products until the company sounds the proverbial “all clear,” he suggested that the company’s sales might not suffer terribly. “Some people will think, ‘Ok, there’s only a small pesticide contamination, so it’s still ok to take the medicine,’” said Barnes. However, according to the company, the recalls may already be taking their toll on business. The company reported a 12 percent decrease in profits, and sales are down by 5.5 percent. Despite this, the company is careful to remind consumers that “this voluntary action is being taken as a precaution
Graphic By Nicholas Tuma Benadryl may not be the drug of choice.
and the risk of adverse medical events is remote.” With potentially contaminated medicine being pulled off the shelves at an alarming rate, the company is faced with a public relations nightmare and scramble to do damage control. “We will invest the necessary resources and make whatever changes are needed to do so,” said McNeil spokeswoman Bonnie Jacobs in an e-mail to the New York Times, “and we will take the time to do it right.” Some consumers need more than a pretty promise to restore their faith in the brand, though. LAUREN MCDADE
FAMUANNEWS@GMAIL.COM
News 4
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Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Volunteers needed for drive LATOYA CHAMBLISS STAFF WRITER America’s Second Harvest of the Big Bend is looking for volunteers to help sort food for one of their biggest national campaigns. Second Harvest of the Big Bend in conjunction with Campbell’s Soup and The United States
scheduled for May 14, the Second Harvest of the Big Bend is having an event called “Young People Care Too.” April 28
is to feed the hungry in the Big Bend through their network of partner agencies, and to educate and engage the community in the fight against hunger. The goal is to have at least 15 people per day to help sort and organize food
schools will be contacted, and e-mail blast will be sent out by Second Harvest of the Big Bend to get volunteers. Young People Care Too will begin on Thursday, April 28 at 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event will take place the same time on Friday, Aug. 29. The last day of the event is Saturday, April 30 from 9a.m.to 1p.m. “The more volunteers we receive, the faster the process will be. We are asking
Courtesy of America’s Second Harvest of the Big Bend.
Postal Service are partnering with the Association of Letter Carriers to sponsor the event, “Stamp Out Hunger.” This is the nation’s largest “single-day food drive.” Participants will place bags filled with nonperishable food items next to their mailbox and the letter carrier will pick it up and deliver them to local food banks such as Second Harvest of the Big Bend. In order to prepare for the Stamp Out Hunger event
through April 30 various young community leaders from high school and college will come out and help sort food at the warehouse. This event is to show the community that young community leaders care about the less fortunate and are willing to donate their time for a good cause. The non-profit organization relies heavily on volunteers to help carry out various duties throughout the community. Their mission
as well as hang up posters. “Before we can heavily promote the Stamp Out hunger event, we have to locally promote our event first. Our warehouse is overstocked and we won’t have room for food we get in from Stamp Out Hunger, if we don’t get volunteers to help us sort and move some of this food,” said Charvelle McClendon, the volunteer coordinator at Second Harvest of the Big Bend. Flyers will be sent out,
everyone to come and get involved it’s not just limited to young people. Anyone who is willing to help we need you”, said McClendon. For more information about Young People Care Too or Stamp Out Hunger, contact Charvelle McClendon at cmcclendon@ fightinghunger.org or 850562-3033 Ext. 211. LATOYA CHAMBLISS
FAMUAN.METRO@GMAIL.COM
Final VPSA candidate arrives MATTHEW RICHARDSON SCHOOL NEWS EDITOR Then there was one. The third candidate vying for the Vice President of Student Affairs arrived in Tallahassee Tuesday, and today he will be busy with numerous interviews, shaking plenty of hands and giving his spiel on what he can bring to the coveted position. G. David Moss, a Florida State graduate, currently serves the assistant vice president of student affairs at the University of Notre Dame. Moss’ interview will be the
last of the three candidates that have been chosen to become the new VP. A.J. Range was the first to be interviewed and FAMU’s own William Hudson, Jr., who is currently serving as the interim VP of student affairs, was interviewed last week. Moss’ schedule includes a meet and greet with the search committee, a meeting with the assistant vice presidents of student affairs, a rendezvous with the University’s Deans and Directors, Faculty & Staff at Foster-Tanner Music Building Recital Hall, a brief chat with the student body
followed by a meeting with President James Ammons and conclude the day by meeting with the president’s leadership team. The meetings seem to be very extensive, but Ammons is searching hard to fill the shoes of former VPSA Roland Gaines. The VPSA position has been vacant since June, when Roland Gaines retired. He worked for FAMU for 36 years, with a six-year stint as vice chancellor of student affairs at North Carolina Central University as the only interruption. The search committee started looking for Gaines’
replacement in September. At the time, Hudson, who headed the initial search committee, was considered the front-runner for the job. “Honestly, at first, I didn’t want this position but as I was asked to be the interim, my mind started to change,” Hudson said. “One of my adages is ‘if you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem.’ so how can I complain about things within student affairs if I’m not willing to spearhead it and make things better.” MATTHEW RICHARDSON
FAMUANNEWS@GMAIL.COM
FORUM
Courtesy To The Famuan Ammons spoke with students about restructuring plans.
“What Florida A&M University will look like years from now will be the result of the hard work of faculty, staff, students and campus leaders who developed a bold, brilliant and progressive course for FAMU for this decade and years to come,” said Ammons. However, as organized as Ammons may be with his plans, students seemed a bit skeptical. Jason Allen, a third-year electronic engineering and technology student is concerned about how the restructuring is being done. “Unlike the construction engineering department, we don’t have much in common with the school of architecture,” Allen said. “Therefore on our degree, it doesn’t help us to say that we graduated from the college of architecture with a degree in electronic engineering.” Ammons explained to students that the masters in arts and technology are being suspended until the undergraduate program gains momentum. He also said that programs that were listed as being critical to the future, such as education, health, stem program, science technology and engineering and mathematics were designated as high need and were kept. “Over the next four years, each step of implementation will lead to these goals being achieved,” Ammons said. “These goals will create that incubator that will produce the millennium of FAMU.” One concern that was raised during the meeting was if a student could stay in his or her major regardless of the cuts. Ammons put juniors and seniors at ease when he said that those students would be able to complete their major with the same credentials. Whatever questions that Ammons could not answer clear enough for students, HughesHarris explained further. “She more or less tried to emphasize but didn’t provide a sufficient answer toward my concern,” Allen said. Although students may still have burning questions, some were thankful that Ammons took the time to alleviate a few concerns. Steven Pargett, a fourth-year public relations student, was thankful for the opportunity to voice his concerns directly to Ammons. SHARI KARESH
FAMUANNEWS@GMAIL.COM
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are being treated unfairly and 53 percent of citizens believe the Tallahassee economy will suffer as a result of Scott’s proposed cuts. The idea of state cuts is haunting government bureaucrats around Tallahassee and now college students are starting to get concerned. “This is going to cause a lot of people and college students to leave the Tallahassee area because there will be limited revenue,” said 20-year-old Alyssa Jackson, a sophomore nursing student from Orlando. Jackson also said she believes the proposed government cuts could greatly affect the colleges and universities in the city. “This could really be a bad thing,” said Jackson as she dropped her head to wipe tear from her eyes.
“I think the crime rate is about to increase as a result of the increased unemployment,” said senior economics student Alexander Rosario, 23, from Lakeland. “As the statewide job cuts draw near, I believe the city of Tallahassee will be dramatically affected by the issues already in the mist of the recession,” said 22-year-old Mike Mitchel, senior physical therapy student from Miami. “The job cut will only diminish the hope or little hope that this community does have on becoming a place it once was,” said Mitchel. “Everyone is working hard to be successful, so the government should try harder to help everyone succeed,” said 23-year-old Ronneesha Akins, a sophomore nursing student from Miami. RANATA HUGHES
FAMUAN.METRO@GMAIL.COM
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TheFamuan Wednesday, April 20, 2011
EDITORIAL BOARD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: jordan1.culver@gmail.com Jordan Culver
COPY DESK: copydeskchief@gmail.com Julian Kemper
OPINIONS EDITOR: famuanopinions@gmail.com Khristanda Cooper
LIFESTYLES EDITOR: famuanlifestyles@gmail.com Clarece Polke
SPORTS EDITOR: famuansports@gmail.com Royal Shepherd
Living it up in smoke: Minus the contact high MATTHEW RICHARDSON SCHOOL NEWS EDITOR As a youngster in high school, I would have to wake up early every morning to catch the school bus and almost every morning, I was introduced to peer pressure. “Wanna (sic) blaze?” a fellow student with lazy, blood shot eyes asked while holding a joint. It was much too easy for me to turn down the young man’s offer, especially since I’ve seen the outcome of it. There he stood, dressed inappropriately for school, hair hardly kept up, blood shot eyes, a slur in his speech and a sluggish stride. I don’t think that was very fitting for my personality, but I’ve come to realize that the description was partly a stereotype of the common “pot head.” My views of marijuana and the effect it has on the lifestyles of those who smoke it have slightly changed. This epiphany occurred during my internship in Orlando when I temporarily roomed with my down to earth, hippie cousin. My cousin is awesome. She shared with me her ideas of being environmentally conscious and how as journalists, we have the talent to change the world. Sometimes, her chatty nature could be the side effects of the Mary Jane she was puffing on the regular, but her constant engaging conversations brought out a side of me that wanted to be more aware of going green— without the drug-affiliation. Almost every day, she would puff, puff and not pass the joint, but pass on useful information. She was the kind of smoker that made me rethink the idea of smoking. Did I mention that she was a lawyer and at one point, she had her own firm? Putting down the somewhat uptight life of a lawyer in exchange for the free-spirited journalist she is now, she kept me up to date with every issue that was going on in and outside of our country. She was practically my USA Today, New York Times and Washington Post all in one. I guess I could call her my personal iPhone app. But with all this said, why didn’t I ever partake smoking weed with her? It was offered plenty of times. One time she even asked me how I wanted to try it. “I don’t care how you try it, sweetheart. We can bake it in cookies, brownies, smoke a joint or hit a bong, I don’t care. Its up to you,” she asked with an energetic tone. I guess I couldn’t get over the fact that marijuana is dubbed as a drug. Many say that it’s simply a plant, but in the words of comedian Katt Williams, “If you just so happen to set it on fire, there are some effects.” MATTHEW RICHARDSON FAMUANOPINIONS@GMAIL.COM
famuanopinions@gmail.com
Opinions 5
Where is the justice in that? So, from a possible 10 years in prison to three years of probation? Really, Feds? For those lost, former FAMU Department of Public Safety officer Byron Whitaker was charged with conspiracy to distribute marijuana and making false statements to a federal agent. He plead guilty earlier this year and at his Monday sentencing, he faced up to 10 years in federal prison. He got three years. Not of jail time, not of house arrest, not even 26, 280 hours (three years) of community service. He got…probation. I’ll take a moment to let that sink in. Don’t get us wrong; we
feel that drug-related crimes are punished too severely. Our problem lies not just with the lack of severity of his sentence. The problem is when minor drug dealers– the kind working underneath a nighuntouchable kingpin– receive obnoxiously lengthy prison sentences for an infinitesimal amount of marijuana. Some of you may be pointing to his law enforcement status as the reason for his slap on the wrist punishment. That’s more reason for him to be harshly punished. How could he take a sworn oath to protect and serve, and then use his position to sell drugs? He’s no better than the people he’s sworn
to apprehend. This man was in a position to serve as a role model for the community, yet chose to squander this for some side money. To give him a mere three years of probation is insulting. Part of his plea agreement included turning in his law enforcement credentials to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, further recusing himself from any form of responsibility. We’re not saying we applaud drug dealers; they should be punished as well. However, for them it should be more a form of rehabilitation; many career drug dealers turn to the lifestyle because of
limited options. Teaching them how to apply themselves in society is far more productive than simply locking them up. But that’s another staff editorial altogether. The bottom line is this: Whitaker’s punishment is barely that. His attorney released a statement that Whitaker, involved in a sizable drug ring, is now seeking other employment avenues. Meanwhile, the small time hustler caught with less than 5 ounces is left behind bars for nearly one-third of the time he’s been alive. Blind justice, indeed. Julian Kemper for the Editorial Board.
Famuan face-off: The ‘chronic’ conundrum Natural high is where it’s at It’s a plant so what’s the problem?
CLARECE POLKE LIFESTYLES EDITOR I have been high almost every day of my life. When you see me on the Set, I’m high. When I’m walking the halls, I’m high. When you see me in class, I’m probably as high as a kite. I randomly burst out in song, smile for no apparent reason, giggle at comments no one else finds funny, babble on inconsequentially and daydream incessantly. And I’ve never smoked anything but sliced turkey and the occasional ham. For those of you who, like me, did not know that ganja meant the same thing as marijuana, let alone that there was a whole day dedicated to the herb, here’s a brief rundown of what 4/20 is. According to published reports, the term was coined by a group of five friends at San Rafael High School in San Rafael, Calif. The friends, nicknamed the “Waldos” because they would hang out on a wall outside of school every day, would discreetly reference 4:20 p.m. as the time they would meet by a statue of Louis Pasteur to hunt for a mythical hidden stash of marijuana somewhere in the city. Eventually, the phrase became a code between the friends for anything marijuana-related. 4/20 has transformed into a phenomenon celebrated worldwide as a day for smokers to communally participate in a day of indulgence and camaraderie. Now I’ve always regarded the idea of smoking very skeptically. Even if I didn’t have allergies, it’s just something that has never interested me in the least. I guess I’ve seen one too many “Above the Influence” commercials.
However, in the fun-loving spirit of 4/20, I too will be chasing my own ultimate high today. I’ll start with a visit to the gym, because exercise is proven to produce endorphins, which can generate peaceful, happy feelings. Then, I’ll put my iTunes “Most Played” playlist on shuffle so I’ll have a constant serenade of my favorite songs throughout the day. I’ll seek out some of my favorite people to make me laugh so hard I cry. The best part about it is, long after all the traditional 4/20ers have come down off their highs, I’ll still be on cloud nine. My high is the kind that follows you everywhere you go and seeps into everything you do. It’s the kind of high that a bad day, one frustrating person, a bad grade, an uncooperative professor, an empty gas tank or even an empty supply of substance (cough,cough) can’t deter. It’s the kind of high that has derived from experiencing and surviving the lowest of lows and the knowledge that nothing you experience can even compare, because you’re prepared. For students who like the natural color of their lips and value their short-term memory and learning skills, but still want to celebrate their 4/20 without artificial enhancement, find your own natural high that makes you happy. For some people it’s religion; for others it’s as simple as a good book or a piece of chocolate. So whether or not you decide to pay a visit to Puff the Magic Dragon for 4/20, find and cherish those intangible, long-lasting elements of your life that can keep you high for the other 364 days in the year. CLARECE POLKE FAMUANOPINIONS@GMAIL.COM
ROYAL SHEPHERD SPORTS EDITOR Let’s mention one thing straight off the bat. This article does not promote drug usage or the general idea that drugs as a whole should be legal. But in the case of one drug, marijuana, I ask why not? There are many whose attention I now hold in the palm of my hands because I mentioned their favorite past time. Others are looking on to see if there is a confession coming (Hi, mom). I will admit that madam Mary Jane and I have had a pleasant exchange or two, but this is college. Find one person who hasn’t tried it here and, while they won’t win anything from me because I’m a broke college kid, they will have my unwavering admiration. This, however, leads me into my first point. There is no way to stop the mass consumption of the product by the general population, so why not make a profit off it for the country’s sake? A better question might be, has prohibition ever decreased usage? My guess is no. Just another shot in the dark, but I believe prohibiting the drug increases its usage (i.e. “the forbidden fruit” effect). A prime example would be the 1920’s prohibition of liquor. Making moonshine became a profitable nationally after alcohol was banned by the government. People found innovative ways to produce and distribute moonshine for years. One of the major factors that increase consumption is the “no restrictions perk” that come with getting high on marijuana. Because there are no age
limits, taxes or companies to validate transactions, people start the hobby long before they can even buy a pack of cigarettes. Liberty also serves its purpose in my argument. At what point does this hobby put anyone in any real danger when done in the comfort of your own home? Is it really any more dangerous than the liquor privileges that people abuse daily? So it won’t kill you. Drugwarfacts.org claims that in 2006, there were 22,073 alcohol-related deaths as opposed to zero in the marijuana column. So, hitting joints until you can no longer feel your lips is a bad route for suicide hopefuls. My final plea is a more simple, yet fool-proof, reason for people to just get off the “kill the pot smoker” tirade: FOOD. Yes, people, food. Glorious food. If you don’t know, the most common side effect of a post-marijuana session is predator-like hunger. Some may know this by its alias, the munchies. I have never witnessed men and women more willing to sacrifice their own children for two McDoubles, three small fries and a sweet tea. This is my solution to the recession in simple steps: 1. Legalize Marijuana 2. Sell it to people 18 and older 3. Reap the benefits of the food consumption revenue 4. Let people decide whether the thrill of doing something legal is still fun. Happy 4/20, everyone.
ROYAL SHEPHERD
F U
THE
EDITOR IN CHIEF: jordan1.culver@gmail.com Jordan Culver
COPY DESK: famuancopydesk@gmail.com Julian Kemper
DEPUTY COPY DESK: Fernesha Hurst
SCHOOL NEWS EDITOR: famuannews@gmail.com Matthew Richardson
DEPUTY SCHOOL NEWS EDITOR: Simone Wright
METRO NEWS EDITOR: famuan.metro@gmail.com Jason Lawrence
OPINIONS EDITOR: famuanopinions@gmail.com Khristanda Cooper
DEPUTY OPINIONS EDITOR: Aaron Johnson
LIFESTYLES EDITOR: famuanlifestyles@gmail.com Clarece Polke
SPORTS EDITOR: famuansports@gmail.com Royal Shepherd
PHOTO EDITOR: famuan.photos3@gmail.com Keenan Doanes
GRAPHICS EDITOR: famuangraphics@gmail.com Kenya Mawusi
MULTIMEDIA EDITOR: famuanlive@gmail.com D.A. Robin
PUBLIC RELATIONS COORDINATOR: famuancalendar@gmail.com Byron Johnson
PROGRAM ASSISTANT: Valerie McEachin ADVISER: Andrew Skerritt
FAX 850.561.2570 EDITOR IN CHIEF 850.561.2569 SECRETARY 850.599.3159 NEWSROOM 850.599.3011/ 561.2569
FAMUANOPINIONS@GMAIL.COM The Famuan, an Associated Collegiate Press 2003 Pacemaker Finalist, is published Monday, Wednesday and online only on 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.
Do you think marijuana should be legalized? A) (cough...cough) Absolutely. B) Shrugs... I don’t care either way. C) Of course not!
Note: This newspaper is not smokeable.
Lifestyles 6
The Famuan
TheFamuanOnline.com
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
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Acclaim for ‘dark musical’ TANYA GLOVER STAFF WRITER Big things can happen to people from small towns. Akil DuPont, a film director from Tallahassee, is one of these people. DuPont has reached recent success from his short film produced at Florida State University, “Underground.” “Underground” is a dark story told through song, DuPont said. It’s the story of Bali and his daughter, Emala, who are trying to escape the unbearable conditions of slavery using hidden instructions found in Negro spirituals to navigate the Underground Railroad. “I went to FAMU from kindergarten until I graduated from college,” DuPont said. “Some of that history just started bubbling up and I thought Negro spirituals would be a great way to tell a story.” The inspiration for the story came from two musicals: “Swing Time” starring Johnny Depp and “Ray” starring Jamie Foxx. “That’s a very dark musical,” DuPont said to describe “Swing Time” and where the inspiration came from. “There’s no dancing, no happiness in that musical either; very raw and gritty. It’s a pretty bloody musical. So I was trying to find a place where I can do a dark and real musical.” DuPont first became interested in directing films as a young student. “I knew a teacher who taught at FAMU DRS when I was in middle school and he was a filmmaker on the side,” DuPont said. “He put the bug in me in the beginning to start making films.” After graduating from FAMU with a degree in economics, DuPont entered the corporate world; a job he said helped him discover his true passion. “It wasn’t really the place I was happy in,” said DuPont. “[My] teacher planted the seed and corporate America put the water.” “Underground” has placed first at the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival, Best Short Film at the San Diego Black Film Festival, Best Short Film in the Texas Black Film Festival and Best of Brouhaha at the Orlando Florida Film Festival. His achievements
qualifiy for the Florida Film Festival, which is an Academy Award - qualifying festival. He also won best student short at the Tallahassee Film Festival and first place at the Palm Beach International Film Festival. Tomi Townsend, a singer and actress originally from Springfield, Tenn., played the leading female role in “Underground.” “I only met him when starting to work on this project,” Townsend said. “From the moment I started working with him, I knew the project would be a success. He’s very focused, very dedicated, extremely talented and just has what it takes to make a great film. And before we even started shooting, I knew what it was going to be able to do.” “Underground” was awarded two student Emmys: Best Use Of Music and the Bricker Humanitarian Award. “It’s very cool,” DuPont said about his most recent achievement. “It’s a little film. I’m from Tallahassee and to just make a film in my hometown and for it to be recognized in one of the biggest awards in entertainment history, one of the biggest awards in the film industry… it’s a beautiful thing.” If DuPont had the option of being in another field, he said he would choose to be a musician after his experience in the Marching 100 as a bass drummer. DuPont was also the chief executive officer for Faces Modeling Troupe. Rey Louis, 21, a third-year English student from Miami, is a member of Faces and has known DuPont for over a year. To Louis, DuPont’s success was no surprise. “I knew one day he would be very successful with his aspirations,” Louis said. “A positive attitude and a friendly persona will get you far and Akil has always demonstrated a great, friendly and outgoing attitude.” Nathaniel Tanner, 20, a thirdyear criminal justice student from Tallahassee, arranged the vocals for “Underground.” For him, DuPont’s willingness to let him have creative freedom is what made it so easy to work with him. “The experience was trying, but well worth it,” Tanner said. “I am not
Courtesy To The Famuan Akil DuPont, an award-winning filmmaker, graduated from FAMU with a degree in economics before discovering his passion for film.
surprised at the success because when you have the blueprint of what you want and you have a team to execute it, then nothing but success can come.” DuPont has simple advice for aspiring film makers.
Rasta smokescreen lifted TAMISHA HAWKINS CORRESPONDENT “One Aim, One God, One Destiny,” are the words of Marcus Garvey, one of the many influential intellectuals who contributed to the Rastafarian ideology and faith. Two former FAMU students are working to dispel what they consider to be common misconceptions about the belief. Naashon Ducille and Desta Tonge are producing a documentary titled “Rasta Baby,” which explores growing up as a Rastafarian. “Naturally, we have educated others about Rasta with our presence alone,” said Ducille and Tonge through e-mail. “We hope that through this documentary, people Graphic By Demetrius Scott
will learn the truth about Rasta and its impact on the world.” The documentary will expose the social, cultural, religious, political and personal experiences held by Rastafarian youth. Interviews and discussions will illuminate challenges faced in school, work and relationships. The pair said they want the documentary to reveal similarities as well as differences between religions. “We believe if people can see the parallels between faiths, they can begin to understand each other and create bridges instead of walls,” said the duo. Ducille said Rastafarians first appeared in Jamaica as early as the 1930s, where the peaceloving people were outcast from colonial society, brutalized and imprisoned for following the faith. Rastafarians who chose to wear dreadlocks during this time were shunned, beaten and forced to cut their locks. Ducille said the foundation of the religion is simple: Rastafarians are African-centered Christians who embrace Ethiopia as the Holy Land, and Zion and His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I, as second coming of Christ. Rastafarians are wellversed in African culture, and teach black pride and empowerment globally. There are three main denominations of the Rastafarian faith: Bobo Shanti, Nyabinghi and Twelve Tribes of Israel. However, not all practice the same. Elements of the
Bobo Shanti denomination include turbans and long robes for men and women and a vegetarian diet. Ducille said one misconception about Rastafarians is they all smoke marijuana. “Herb is a sacrament used for direct connection with God during meditation, reasonings and bible study,” Ducille said. “Its use is a choice and is not observed by all. However, Rastafarians are naturalist and refrain from the use of all drugs because they are man made or adapted from chemicals.” Atheism is another widespread belief the duo hope to combat. “There is a belief in God, just not in a white God,” Ducille said. “The bible is recognized as the word of God transcribed by many men.” Ducille and Tonge said Twelve Tribers also adhere to a vegetarian diet and recognize a natural way of living. Some refrain from dairy products, processed foods and table salt, while others choose to eat fish, keeping with the Old Testament’s dietary restrictions. They hope to finish filming the documentary over the summer and want to host discussions surrounding the topic. “We hope that, through this documentary, people will learn the truth about Rasta and its impact on the world,” Ducille and Tonge said. TAMISHA HAWKINS FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM
“Study your craft,” DuPont said. “Know how to tell a good story.”
TANYA GLOVER FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM
Souljah’s sequel spotlights interracial relationships
Sister Souljah’s newly released novel is the latest of a series stemming from “The Coldest Winter Ever.”
MATTHEW RICHARDSON SCHOOL NEWS EDITOR For three years— three long years, I‘ve been hanging on a cliff, hoping to be saved by Sister Souljah’s words to know the outcome of her character Midnight and at long last, on April 12, she came to my rescue and I was not disappointed. The wait was worth it. Souljah not only shows growth in her novel “Midnight and the Meaning of Love,” but further challenges readers to catch a glimpse of various cultures around the world. Souljah’s 2008 book “Midnight” was complex, but the setting was typical
and simple. Set the 1980s in Brooklyn, NY, “Midnight” chronicles the life of 14-yearold Midnight, who moves from Sudan to the Brooklyn projects with his young sister and mother. Midnight and his family are Muslim and Souljah introduces the readers to their Islam practices and how others respond to it. The fatherless Midnight treats his gun as an American Express card and being trained in ninjutsu, he is more than prepared to take on the mean streets of Brooklyn. In Souljah’s recent book, Midnight’s world is turned upside down when his wife— yes, his wife—is kidnapped and taken back to Japan— yes, Japan. Souljah addresses the lengths of love and the meaning behind it. Souljah had the enigmatic Midnight fall in love with a Japanese 16-yearold who doesn’t speak English. This young marriage causes uproar with his wife’s family resulting in her sudden kidnapping. Souljah’s book is a joy to read. Souljah clashes the multiple cultures referenced in the novel in the final the two to clash but in the end, find common ground. Pick up the first book “Midnight” before reading the second. Just know that “Midnight and the Meaning of Love” is a better, more organized work of art.
MATTHEW RICHARDSON FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM
The Famuan
TheFamuanOnline.com
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
famuancomics2011@gmail.com
7 Comics
Girls & Sports by Justin Borus and Andrew Feinstein
Andy Capp by Reg Smythe
BC by Johnny Hart
Fat Cats by Charlie Podrebarac
Momma by Mell Lazarus
Ben by Daniel Shelton
Arlo and Janis by Jimmy Johnson
Get Fuzzy by Darby Conley
Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz
Sports 8
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The Famuan Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Beat Diabetes Prince Hall Shriner’s foundation selects FAMU football for new Classic
Royal Shepherd The Famuan FAMU has partnered with the Prince Hall Shriner’s foundation to host the Third Annual Diabetes Classic. It will be the second home game of the upcoming sesaon against Deleware State University. “Today, FAMU stands ready and commited to partner with the foundation to take the classic to another level,” President James Ammons said.
Man behind the numbers
Ronnie Johnson does the dirty work for FAMU athletics LAMONT WILSON STAFF WRITER Assistant S p o r t s Information D i r e c t o r R o n n i e Johnson has no offseason, he has no time off and he “plays” all year-round. “I’ve been here at Florida A&M since 2002,” Johnson said. “I came here when we started to do this stuff by hand, now we’ve moved into the digital age. We do things on Twitter and Facebook.” Johnson job is based on the university’s sports. Everything that pertains to athletics at FAMU, Johnson knows about it. “This job is like a doctor being on call 24/7,” Johnson said. “Unfortunately, I missed some important moments like my daughters first step, but luckily I’ve had opportunities to bring my children in my office to spend time with them.” Having this position, Johnson knows that he may have to go travel with different athletic teams for the school. “Some schools don’t have a sports information department,” Johnson said. “That requires me to travel with the teams and take care of keeping track of all the information.” Johnson has spent more than 10 years working at various schools and being a part of their sports information programs. “I was a student working in sports information at Alcorn State, then I built the program up at Talladega College,” Johnson said. “Then Alabama State for two years before I came to FAMU.” Johnson spends most of the year
quality sports information program, you have to demand the best out of yourself and the people you surround yourself with in order to make sure you run a smooth ship.” Jenny Bury has volunteered to help sports information since 2006, and describes her working relationship with Johnson as a parental one. “He taught me the basics of all sports here at FAMU,” Bury said. “I learned the correct terms for basketball, and how to correctly score baseball and football games. I know how to prepare for a game and providing stats for the media. He is really dedicated to it; he works beyond the call of duty.” Bury said Johnson is a “workaholic” and if there is some work to be done he might as well just do it. “He works more than eight hours; he puts his all into it,” Bury said. “He does more than just his job titles; he goes the extra mile at Courtesy To The Famuan work.” In the green shirt identified by the arrow, Johnson may be the hardest person Bury thinks of Johnson as being to spot at a sporting event. a responsible, reliable person. She “I met Ronnie when Alvin hired looks to him for advice outside of “Spending time with my parents is great. I’ll go one week to see my him,” Tatum said. “I don’t have any sports information. “He is a mentor to me personally. family then I’ll go spend another funny stories about Ronnie, just week at my wife’s family in a two more chaos he has to deal with; the He gives me guidance, he is like a week span and go see some old different coaches, the players and big brother to me,” Bury said. “I really like coming and volunteering the games.” friends.” The time Johnson and Tatum my time to help him because I know Johnson’s hectic work schedule makes him miss some of his favorite spent together created a friendship he doesn’t have a lot of people pastimes: Watching cartoons, that has lasted for more than a out there to help him, but I enjoy coming out to help him as much as listening to music and watching old decade. Even though Johnson and Tatum I can.” movies. “When I am not busy with sports have found time to laugh and have information I am catching up a good time, work comes first and with my cartoons and some of my Tatum described Johnson as being For more information on television shows like “Supernatural” very professional. Johnson and all other “His work ethic is very good. He and the newest ‘G.I. Joe’ show,” sports news check out Johnson said, “As far as music goes, demands a lot from everybody thefamuanonline.com/ and he expects perfection not only I listen to a variety of artists.” sports Vinson Tatum is a volunteer from himself, but from people who that helps Johnson with sports works around him and the student information. Tatum has known assistants that works under him,” LAMONT WILSON Johnson for more than 11 years Tatum said. “In order to run a top FAMUANSPORTS@GMAIL.COM watching and recording sports for FAMU. When he is not working, he tries to find time to relax. “One thing that relaxes me is when I am on vacation,” Johnson said.
and met him here at FAMU while Johnson was working for sports information. He was hired by former sports information director, Alvin Hollins Jr.