WedFeb162011

THE STUDENT VOICE OF FLORIDA AGRICULTURAL AND MECHANICAL UNIVERSITY

“The Number 1 HBCU Newspaper” According to the Black College Communication Association

66

www.TheFamuanOnline.com

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

VOL. 112 ISSUE 22

SGA officials forced out MATTHEW RICHARDSON SCHOOL NEWS EDITOR Come next Senate meeting, a few more empty seats might be available.

Twelve members of SGA were notified by Dean of

NEWS BRIEFS INTERNATIONAL

ANGON, Myanmar (AP) — From almost the moment Le Yati Min was born, her mother knew the girl had a little something extra. Born with 12 fingers and 14 toes, Le may be the most “digitally enhanced” person in the world. Now, the 16-month-old girl’s family in impoverished Myanmar is seeking a Guinness World Record to prove it.

SOURCE: ASSOCIATED PRESS

STATE TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Insurance giant State Farm is back before Florida insurance regulators asking for significant increases in homeowners premiums.

The Comapny presented its case at a public rate hearing on Tuesday.

The insurer seeks a hike of nearly 28 percent in homeowners policies. The company is also asking for a hike of nearly 96 percent for coverage that protects against multiple perils for businesses and homes or combines property and liability coverage in one policy.

SOURCE: ASSOCIATED PRESS

WEATHER Today

70 48 Thursday

74 47 Friday

75 49

Students Henry Kirby to relinquish their position due to poor grades and/or insufficient credit hours.

“We just got the grade point averages back from the registrar’s office yesterday and they were notified today,”

It is a violation of the Federal Education Rights of Privacy Act to disclose exactly which students fail to meet academic requirements.

The Famuan reported on

Kirby said Tuesday.

During a sit-down with Kirby in his office, he was asked to respond to questions about SGA being forced to resign.

Kirby said he sent letters to each member but was not allowed to release the names.

SGA 4

Haven for the weary

Jasmine Mitchell The Famuan The Shelter, located at 480 E. Tennessee St provides lodging, laundry services, and other support services to the cities neediest residents. The Shelter opened in 1986, after several men froze to death in winter. See Page 3 for the full story.

Tech waste meets recycling KENTA JOSEPH STAFF WRITER In a small, 10,000-squarefoot facility, just off Woodville Highway in Tallahassee, workers are destroying data, disassembling parts and recycling unwanted PCs, flatscreen TVs and other electronics.

This process continues daily at Veolia Environmental Services, while most consumers remain unaware of one of the fastest growing waste streams globally – electronic waste.

In 2005, 76 percent of Americans owned a personal computer and 67 percent owned a mobile phone, according to an Opinion Research CARAVAN poll. New technology drives the development of new products and the replacement of old ones.

Ahmdiel Ahmdyah, a third year agricultural science student from Orlando, said that he has owned everything -- camcorders, digital cameras, computers, remote control devices, tape recorders -- but he would just trash them.

“Now I know you can recycle

just about any electronic, computers, your cell phone and even household batteries,” Ahmdyah said.

When unwanted electronics are disposed improperly, hazardous toxins like lead, mercury and cadmium are released, polluting the soil and air. Still, more than 4.6 million tons of e-waste ended up in U.S. landfills in 2000. According to Greenpeace International, e-waste is generated at an WASTE 4

Summit promotes awareness NI’TAVIA JOHNSON STAFF WRITER Former USDA official Shirley Sherrod will be a keynote speaker at a twoday summit at Florida A&M addressing agricultural and environmental issues.

The summit themed “Embracing Our Traditions of Partnership,” is scheduled to take place on campus on Friday and Saturday.

The purpose of the summit is to bring stakeholders together at the planning table in an effort to collectively frame an agenda that addresses sustainable agriculture for Historically Black Colleges and Universities and 1890 Land Grant institutions over the long term.

The summit will officially open on Friday evening, with a plenary session presided over by Makola Abdullah, Dean of FAMU’s College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture.

Sherrod will provide the keynote address.

“We are most powerful and most impactful when we connect with the community; farmers, students, activists, and others we can empower to help us help them,” Abdullah said.

Last summer, Sherrod found herself at the center of controversy after an edited video of a speech she gave at a NAACP banquet falsely depicted her as a racist.

Sherrod has since filed a defamation lawsuit against Andrew Breitbart over the video released on his website BigGovernment.com that ultimately led to her dismissal from the USDA. GREEN 4

Red-light cameras may face speedy legislative challenge MARCUS JOSEPH STAFF WRITER Florida’s red-light violators may have something to celebrate if a proposed senate bill is passed.

An act related to uniform traffic control has been filed, and if passed would remove traffic cameras from the state of Florida.

Newly acquired state Sen. Rene Garcia, R-Hialeah, and Rep. Richard Corcoran, R-New Port Richey, respectively proposed SB 672 and HB 4087, concerning uniform traffic control measures.

If either bill is passed, they could call off the Mark Wandall Traffic Safety Act signed by

File Photo The Famuan Traffic cameras may be removed completely from the state of FLorida if the proposed bill is passed.

Gov. Charlie Crist last July. The law’s repeal would have a direct impact on the city of Tallahassee.

The Traffic Safety Act was created for many reasons, but

mainly to decrease the number of casualties caused by red-light runners.

As of Aug. 1, 2010, the city of Tallahassee has been enforcing

Sports

Lifestyles

Tennis player Brittney Dean has been in love with the sport since the first time she took to the court.

In-house movie critic Matthew Richardson gives his spin on the newly released film “Just Go With It”

Sports| 8

Lifestyles | 6

fines for violators who are captured by traffic cameras, already installed at some of the city’s major intersections.

On Jan. 13, The Famuan reported safety cameras have been monitoring major intersections around the city.

“The Red Light Camera Safety program is an effort to reduce the number of red light violations that could have important life saving benefits to the citizens living and working in Tallahassee,” said Alison Faris, a representative in the city of Tallahassee’s communications department.

Garcia, deemed traffic cameras TRAFFIC 4

2 Calendar

TheFamuanOnline.com

The Famuan

famuancalendar@gmail.com

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Events and Announcements Announcements The Seshait Chapter of Alpha Rho Chi Fraternity Inc. hosts Secret Garden of Eden on Feb. 19. It is a relaxed elegant night of live music, spoken word, poetry, body art and much more. The night even includes an open mic session for those who are gifted in the arts and are interested in performing. Tickets are on sale now and maybe purchased from any brother of Alpha Rho Chi Fraternity, Inc. For more information please to contact Carlos at 850-264-4936.

FAMU Epsilon Pi Tau will be hosting an Photoshop 101 workshop on Feb. 17 at 6:30 p.m. in The School of Journalism & Graphic Communications room 3132. This event will provide its participants at any skill level with the knowledge and tools to sucessfully operate Adobe Photoshop. For more information please contact Epsilon Pi Tau via e-mail at famuept@ gmail.com.

The Upsilon Psi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. presents the 28 days of Black History. For this week the events consist of: Movie at The Rattlers Den “Diary of a Mad Black Man” at 7 p.m. on February 16,”Thespian Thursdays” at Amen Ra’s at 9 p.m. On Feb. 17, Freshman Class “Costume Party“ in the grand

ballroom from 8 p.m. - 12 p.m. on Feb.18 and Church at New Mount Zion at 11:30 a.m. on Feb.19. For more information contact Bodae Vogt at 404-680-0014. You can also get details via UpsilonPsi.net.

The FAMU Wesley Foundation presents “An Evening with the Founder of CYNY” on Thursday, Feb. 17 at 7:30 p.m. at The Wes located at 1747 S. Adams St. For more information, call or email us at 850-425-8307 or info@famuwesley.com.

The FAMU Green Coalition in will host the movie/ documentary “ Six Degrees Could Change the World” Thursday Feb. 17 from 6-8 p.m. in the SJGC Lecture Hall. Following the movie will be a brief meeting to discuss plans for the upcoming Power Shift conference in Washington D.C. April 15-18. For more information call 850-561-2765.

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 to 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 Spring Break Getaway Panama City Beach, The Ocean Towers Beach Club 11211 Front Beach Road- 850-235-6100 1 bedroom, pull out queen size sofa (sleeps 4) 1 ½ bath,beach front (all rooms facing beach) full kitchen, washer-dryer Cost $700 (a savings of nearly $200) For more information call 850-443-8558 Attention: All Students On Feb. 14, 2011, the IRS will begin processing the higher education tuition and fees deduction.

Bring in your 1098-T and receive credit.

Amendment preparation is available for taxpayers who have filed previous tax returns.

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

Bethel AME Church “Called to make a Difference.”

Jacob Chapel Baptist Church “The Blue Print.”

SUN. 9:45 a.m.

SECOND SERVICE

PRAYER MEETING SUN. 6:30 p.m.

TUE/FRI 11:30-12:30

SUN. 11:00 a.m.

THURS. 7:30 p.m.

SUN. 9:30 a.m.

SUN. 7:45 a.m.

SUN. 11:00 a.m

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

BIBLE STUDY

TUE 7:00 p.m.

TUE. 12:00 p.m.

WED. 7:00 P.M. THURS. 6:15 p.m. - 6:45

COLLEGIATE MINISTRY WALKING DISTANCE SHUTTLE

YES YES YES

Cathedral of Faith Ministries “ The Family Church Serving the Family of God.”

FIRST SERVICE

NO YES YES YES YES YES

SUNDAY SCHOOL

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

TheFamuanOnline.com

We Deliver!

*

Carry-Out Additional Toppings Available

Large Pizza Cheese or Pepperoni Order 3 or More, We’ll Deliver!

Two Large Orders of Baked Spaghetti Served with Fresh Baked Howie Bread

Call (850) 599- 3159 for ad inquiry

Corrections

FREE FLAVORED PIZZA CRUST! Original • Butter • Butter cheese • Onion • Cajun Garlic Herb • Ranch • Sesame

SERVING FAMU AREA

1496 Apalachee Pkwy. next to Best Buy

Plus tax & delivery. At participating locations.

942-6800

10035-B

*Delivery Extra

In the Feb. 9 issue, The Famuan incorrectly identified Verian D. Thomas.

For corrections please email Famuancalendar@gmail.com.

TheFamuan Monday, February 16, 2011

TheFamuanOnline.com famuan.metro@gmail.com

Shelter offers retreat

Jasmine Mitchell The Famuan As the tempuratures drop, the number of guests at The Shelter begins to rise.

WILLIS MCPHEE CORRESPONDENT As winter trudges along, most Tallahassee residents simply turn on their heaters to escape the cold.

But for those that do not have a home, The Shelter, located on West Tennessee Street, provides a retreat for the less fortunate.

The Shelter, funded through the United Way, is run by volunteers and helps in keeping people off the streets. The Shelter provides housing, showers, food and a bed for free. It admits between 120 to 150 guests per day.

Due to the cold rainy weather, the number of guests has increased to roughly 250 men, women and children during this winter season.

Sammy Towels, program coordinator, said providing service to help the guests is one of his main priorities.

“This is a place people can go when there is nowhere else,” Towels said.

Some guests come from the Apalachee Mental Health Center in another part of town. Unfortunately, 40 percent of the homeless receiving help are mental patients who leave the Apalachee Center and turn to The Shelter for help, according to Towels.

Mia Williams, from Georgia, has been living in the shelter for two weeks. In a disagreement with her family. She came to Tallahassee, looking for work.

“Living at the shelter is different but it’s okay,” said Williams.

She is not sure how long she will be staying. Nevertheless, The Shelter provided a bed and a place to keep her things.

Many other opportunities are offered through The Shelter.

Transitional housing is available to those who qualify.

“Section 8 and other housing agencies’ waiting lists are so long that we do not use their services,” Towels said.

Willie Smith, 55, also found a temporary home in the shelter. Originally from New York, Smith said he came down to Panama City to visit his aunt for the first time. Before his mother died he made a promise to see his aunt. That never came, because his aunt died a day before he arrived on a bus.

“My aunt found me work and I was going to move in with her,” Smith said.

With no family, money and now no way to get a job Smith had nothing.

Smith went to a shelter in Panama City but had to leave. The shelter only allowed its guests to stay 15 days.

“I was stranded so I went to the only place I knew: the church,” said Smith. A pastor told him about Tallahassee so he came over.

For six months now, Smith has been living at The Shelter.

“It’s very difficult coming from the big city to this small country town but I’m keeping faith,” he said.

WILLIS MCPHEE FAMUAN.METRO@GMAIL.COM

Metro News 3

News 4

TheFamuanOnline.com famuannews@gmail.com

TheFamuan Wednesday, February 16, 2011

WASTE estimated annual rate between 20 and 50 million tons globally.

Lorielle Jackson, a fourth year environmental science student from St. Petersburg, said she has never recycled electronics and doesn’t know much about it.

“I have a computer sitting in my room that needs to be recycled,” Jackson said.

“Instead of just throwing it away, I’m just leaving it there until I figure it out.

Most people throw them away – they either don’t know or don’t care.”

At Florida A&M, computer equipment is given an estimated lifespan of three years, said Ronald Henry, director of Enterprise Information Technologies services and telecommunications.

Building renovations, supplementing classrooms with multimedia and other upgrades will almost always guarantee the obsolescence of old equipment.

When the electronics, which include computer components, non-functional electronic equipment, printers, copiers, desk telephones systems and miscellaneous items like circuit boards, become undesirable, the FAMU Environmental Health and Safety department ensures the proper disposal.

“The university currently has an arrangement with Goodwill Industries to accept and process for recycling a wide variety of electronic waste generated on campus,” said Ryan Mitchell, the hazardous materials manager and senior environmental specialist at FAMU. “We try to avoid sending any e-waste to the landfill.”

Goodwill began accepting donations of electronics from FAMU and similar institutions about six months prior to opening the Electronic Store and Recycling Center on Apalachee Parkway in August 2009, said Brooke Lochore, Goodwill’s vice president of public relations for the Big Bend area.

“We get a continuous stream of undesired electronics from FAMU,” said Lochore . “FAMU has just been a brilliant partner. FAMU was our second, and they are an absolute pleasure to work with, and they just call us when they have undesired electronics.”

Goodwill also receives electronic donations from TCC, Gulf Coast Community College, Leon County Schools, Leon County buildings, as well

Kenta Joseph The Famuan Veolia Environmental Services offers environmentally friendly solutions for disposing unwanted electronics.

as Tallahassee residents.

First, all electronics are tested and wiped of personal data using Department of Defense standards, Lachore said.

Working electronics and those that require minor repairs are fixed and sold in-store. All other electronics are dismantled and separated - clean metals from clean plastics - before being sold to the commodities market.

“We don’t actually physically recycle here,” Lochore said. “We sell it on to be recycled, but everybody that we sell to must be on the department of Environmental Protection Agency list. That means that they are a responsible recycler.”

Leon County’s hazardous waste facility, however, is mandated to ship to a local recycler after collecting, separating basic types and shrink-wrapping or boxing materials. It receives electronics from residents, small businesses and some state government agencies.

“The materials go to a company called Creative Recycling,” said Richard Lobinske, the Leon County hazardous waste manager. “They’ve got a facility in Tampa that breaks down the materials and they extract out the raw materials for resale. They do all the work in Florida.”

Leon County is among 16 local governments that recycle with Creative Recycling, an innovator in the processing of obsolete electronics. The company also has eight state recycling contracts.

Of the thousands of tons of equipment that enter the company’s facilities, 99

percent is reusable or recyclable, and one percent of non-electronic waste goes back into the waste stream, said Diana Nieves-Oake, Creative Recycling’s director of marketing and public relations.

“One of the reasons we go with Creative is it was a part of the county’s bid process,” Lobinske said.

“It specified that everything was done locally [and] that none of it was exported, because of a lot of the problems that have come up with exporting electronics to developing parts of the world, where there’s a lot of very lax environmental regulation.”

Lobinske is referring to a growing global trend coined as “digital dumping.”

Proper recycling of electronics in the United States doesn’t guarantee it won’t end up in a landfill overseas.

Of the 12.5 percent recycled, 50 to 80 percent is exported to developing countries, according to The Basel Action Network, a charitable organization focused on stopping the toxic-waste trade.

The exports are often sent under the guise of closing the digital divide between developed and developing countries. These “generous gifts,” do little, however, to help the disparity. A 2005 study by BAN in Nigeria revealed that up to 75 percent of used computers imported for reuse are non-functional or irreparable, thus they end up in landfills and incinerators.

“FAMU only does business with SENATE PRES. Monday about the speculation of a few members of SGA having a low GPA. It was reported that most elected officials are required to maintain a 2.5 GPA or a 2.8 GPA. With notifications being tossed around and the news of members having to resign due to unmet requirements, Senate President Iman Sandifer stepped down, but will still be a senator.

GREEN Sherrod will be speaking at 6:30 p.m. on Friday in Perry Paige Auditorium.

Kaishawn Foster, 21, said she’s excited to hear Sherrod speak.

“I definitely plan on going and I happy that they also made it free for FAMU students.”

Other confirmed speakers are Hiphop Caucus Executive Director Rev. Lennox Yearwood, Rep. Alan Williams and environmental activist Walter A. Hill among others.

Cynthia Hayes, executive director for the Southeastern Green Network, believes the university has shown its intent to lead the Green movement. The upcoming Summit is more evidence of the role the school continues to play.

TRAFFIC as “An unwarranted, big-brother initiative,” and hopes SB 672 will eliminate the variety of perceived infractions, which cannot be determined from a camera alone.

In Tallahassee, there has been a significant reduction in the number of red light violations since the implementation of the program.

“The city has issued an average of 34 Notices of Violations per day,” said Faris.

“Over time, we hope the number of violations decreases as drivers become more conscious.”

Revenue from citations goes to state trust funds and municipalities; the removal or changes to the Traffic Safety Act could have a huge impact.

“State legislation specifies that $70 is

reputable companies,” said Mitchell. “All vendors must be registered to conduct business legally in the state of Florida and must register and be vetted by the university’s Purchasing Department.”

A detailed paper trail also accompanies hazardous waste generated by FAMU, Mitchell said.

It identifies each material or substance, quantity, physical state and hazard classification, as well as all the stakeholders involved in the generation, storage, transporting and disposal of the materials.

“There are extremely strict federal and state laws governing almost every aspect of hazardous waste generation,” Mitchell said. “I am directly responsible for ensuring the regulations are adhered to, and that FAMU maintains a record of compliance in all our inspections by regulatory agencies.”

Universities and other large organizations are under an EPA classification that generates more waste than the county is permitted to handle, Lobinske said. Universities, therefore, typically have their own in-house hazardous materials collection and recycling contractors.

Read the rest of this story along with other content from The Famuan at www.thefamuanonline.com/news.

KENTA JOSEPH FAMUANNEWS@GMAIL.COM According to Organization and “We all just found out yesterday,” Sider’s told the Famuan Tuesday.

“I guess there were more internal issues than he cared to discuss at that moment.”

Sandifer said he wanted to focus on other things for himself.

MATTHEW RICHARDSON FAMUANNEWS@GMAIL.COM

“I can’t think of a more appropriate and logical time or place for this event to happen,” said Hayes.

Several student activist groups on campus including the FAMU Green Coalition, Environmental Sciences Student Organization, and the Environment and Sustainability Council have all signed on to provide volunteer support and input for this important event.

Registration is required for attending the summit. The basic registration fee is $99. The Summit is free for FAMU students and $10 for non-FAMU students. Farmers desiring to attend the summit may apply for scholarships.

NITAVIA JOHNSON FAMUANNEWS@GMAIL.COM

allocated to the state, $10 to the Dept. of Health Trust Fund, $3 to the Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund and $75 to municipality (in this case, City of Tallahassee),” said Faris.

Repealing the law would subtract funding for some city services.

“Any revenue received from the Red Light Camera Safety Program is used to pay for city services such as parks and recreation and public works,” said Faris.

According to Dick Cannon, FDOT communication director, the effect of a possible repeal is unclear.

“The department has not yet reviewed senate bill 672, and will not be able to comment on the effects that the bill can possibly have on Florida,” said Cannon.

MARCUS JOSEPH FAMUAN.METRO@GMAIL.COM

TheFamuanOnline.com

The Famuan Wednesday, February 16, 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

We need to help our youth to succeed not fail

famuanopinions@gmail.com

Opinions 5

They aren’t ignorant, you just disagree with them What is the difference between ignorance and something the majority just doesn’t want to hear?

The dictionary defines ignorance as a “lack of knowledge, education, or awareness.” To call someone ignorant is to challenge his or her awareness on a certain situation.

You are basically saying that person should not speak because that person does not know what he or she is talking about.

The main word I’ve heard used to describe the FSU College Republicans lately is “ignorant.”

The Republicans over at the

school on the “other side of the train tracks” decided to hop on a national bandwagon – other schools are doing this – and have an Anti-Affirmative Action Bake Sale.

Whether or not you agree with these people you cannot call them ignorant.

The College Republicans are not a stupid bunch of people living under rocks and surviving off moonshine.

They are college students.

They attend an institution of higher learning and haven’t been kicked out yet.

That almost makes them like us right?

The Grand Ole Party of FSU is saying things we don’t like.

Its bake sale was something everyone dismissed as ignorance.

It is actually a pretty clever ploy for attention.

I disagree with what these students are saying. I disagree with many, but not all, conservative viewpoints.

I don’t think what they did was necessarily right. What I won’t ever do, however, is call them ignorant.

Dismissing what these students did as ignorance is foolish. It is actually playing into their hands in a way. We ignore their calculated efforts at removing progress and eventually said progress will be removed.

The “ignorant” have a nasty habit of dismantling things and changing them to their liking. People ignore what they think is irrelevant or foolish and the people they ignore rise and multiply.

If you don’t like what the FSU College Republicans have to say then take a stand.

Ignoring and dismissing things won’t make them disappear.

They’ll just shout louder to make their voices heard.

KRISTIN BRONER FAMUANOPINIONS@GMAIL.COM

EDITOR IN CHIEF: jordan1.culver@gmail.com Jordan Culver COPY DESK: famuancopydesk@gmail.com Julian Kemper

SCHOOL NEWS EDITOR: famuannews@gmail.com Matthew Richardson

DEPUTY SCHOOL NEWS EDITOR: Simone Wright

Jordan Culver Editorial Board.

for

the

KRISTIN BRONER CORRESPONDENT

Three years have passed, and America still stands in awe of having its first black president, but, we are still dealing with realities of black youth partaking in numerous criminal acts.

Blacks bear most of the burden or shame of violent criminal acts. We are always considered the most violent and angry people. But is this true?

Some statistics say that we are 13 percent of the population; however, we represent more than 15 percent of nonfatal crimes and nearly half of all homicides.

What are we as a community to do about this, especially our black youth?

It is quite appalling to hear that youth are not only victims but also victimizers.

How are we to change these issues that threaten our very existence?

As a child, I lost two older brothers to black-on-black crime. Naturally, it was devastating to experience such tragic losses, but, what most don’t understand is that it is not just my family’s loss. Its a loss of two men who could have been great leaders for our community.

So as a community we must stand up and fight for our youth’s future, even if they themselves don’t see or understand the worth of fighting for it.

We have set notions that some children are just innately bad or good.

But I believe we must take on the mindset of many African villages, every child has a purpose, a goal in life, and we need to bring the best out of them.

So what we must do is more mentoring, we must volunteer more and show our belief in today’s black youth. Only then can we begin to see a change. We can teach them to appreciate and value knowledge, not to value ignorance and buffoonery.

Assistant professor of political science Victor Eon said, “We must reemphasize values, selfrespect, and family beliefs.”

Only then can we expect and see change.

We must support programs like the A&E TV series “Beyond Scared Straight” and excessive community service if it will help them steer away from criminal acts.

As stated by Associate English Professor Frances Stallworth, “We are the sum total of our decisions.” Just some words to live and to teach by.

F U

THE

POLITICAL TAKEOUT

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

DEPUTY LIFESTYLES EDITOR: Tanya Glover

ASSISTANT LIFESTYLES EDITOR: Ivan Marchena

SPORTS EDITOR: famuansports@gmail.com Royal Shepherd

DEPUTY SPORTS EDITORS: Cameron Daniels

Phelan M. Ebenhack, Associated Press Governor Rick Scott discussing his 7-7-7 plan and budget on Feb. 7th

Rick Scott’s 7-7-7 plan and what it means for us AARON JOHNSON DEPUTY OPINIONS EDITOR Last week Gov. Rick Scott released his budget proposal for the state.

Called the “7-7-7 plan,” it proposes acceleration in the total job growth in Florida, along with an increase in the number of new business start-ups and growing wages and salaries.

Of course these promises seem encouraging, but how will they be implemented?

The 7-7-7 plan is a seven step economic program that is aimed at making Florida the job creation model for the nation over a seven year period.

The state is in desperate need of an economic boost.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statics, as of Jan. 25, Florida has an unemployment rate of 12 percent, which is one of the highest in the nation and just shy of tying a historic high of 12.3 percent.

High property taxes are a major problem for millions of Floridians as their

homes enter foreclosure as a result of depleted property values, making it difficult for homeowners to cover the expensive mortgages.

Healthcare coverage is another issue as well as educational funding for Florida’s schools and universities.

The governor’s strategy is outlined on letsgettowork. state.fl.us. The first step uses transparent outcome based budgets for accountability budgeting. Which is basically a budget focused on services instead of other departments designed to show taxpayers exactly where their money is being spent.

The plan is to have the state and local government expenditure burden to at least 15 percent, the level it was in 2004.

The second step is reducing government spending.

By reforming the pension, justice and Medicaid departments, the cost of government can be reduced by eight percent, saving almost $1 billion in the state workforce.

As far as healthcare, Medicaid recipients would be

given consumer directed care saving $4 billion, and saving taxpayers $1.8 billion.

The third step promises regulatory reform. The Pacific research institute ranked Florida 45th worst in the nation with its regulatory framework.

Therefore, the scheme is to make unemployment benefits more affordable and limit lawsuits with a tort reform.

In the fourth step, job growth and retention are the areas of concern. Partnerships with public and private businesses, including universities, would be used to restructure the economy and to eliminate competition with current systems.

There will be funds for different economic developments such as a possible high-speed rail system. This plan allows businesses of all sorts to expand in their own ways without legal prohibitions.

Unfortunately, the world class education plan under step five is lackluster with many gaps in between.

It broadly deals with education by expanding the Opportunity

Scholarship program and access to high performing charter schools. Where is the funding for Florida’s public schools and Universities?

The plan fails to answer the financial burdens of many programs within our schools.

Step six aims towards reducing property taxes by $1.1 billion.

The average homeowner would save $100.

In the final plan, eliminating the corporate income tax over seven years would put money back into taxpayer pockets.

From 2011 to 2012 the CIT rate would decrease by 5.5 percent changing from $2,036.70 to $1,577.88.

Overall, the governor’s blueprint covers the basic necessities needed for Florida’s economic improvement.

However, more specific details are needed to understand how the people would be affected, and more attention should go towards Florida’s future in education.

AARON JOHNSON FAMUANOPINIONS@GMAIL.COM

PHOTO EDITOR: famuan.photos3@gmail.com Keenan Doanes

DEPUTY PHOTO EDITOR: Jasmine Mitchell

VISUAL EDITOR: famuangraphics@gmail.com Jeffrey Morris

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

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 have an extracurricular activity that is more important that school?

A) Of course. B) Depends on the semester. C) No.

The Famuan

TheFamuanOnline.com

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

famuanlifestyles@gmail.com

Lifestyles 6

Webb spins new play

Cafe gives tasty treats BRITTNEY LAWS STAFF WRITER

Clarece Polke The Famuan Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. “Black Widow,” written by James Webb Jr., will premiere in the Charles Winter Wood Theater.

ASHLEY WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

A southern play of spirituality and redemption, “Black Widow,” opens Friday night in the Charles Winter Wood Theater.

The play was written by Florida A&M alumnus James Webb Jr. and is in its final stage of production.

“We hope to iron out the kinks and any script issues in order to get it ready for a full out performance,” said Marci Stringer, a theatre professor who plays Loretta in the production.

Stringer said that she thinks the audience will leave with questions about faith, life, death and purpose.

“There are no absolute answers given in the play,” said Stringer. “The playwright

purposely doesn’t provide a solid, clean ending. It allows us as an audience to keep thinking about what we have just seen.”

The complexity and unpredictability of the plot, however, is what piqued her interest in the production and what will keep the audience captivated, she said.

“I love this play, the language and the musicality it possesses,” said Stringer.

“I pray that I have the opportunity to work on the debut performance when it is complete.”

Webb hopes to have the show eventually on Broadway, and said he is pleased to have it picked up by the Essential Theater.

Kim Harding, a theater professor and producer of “Black Widow,” said that the theater department’s mission is to open its stage to those who would like a chance to

share their stories with the world.

“What we do is to offer these budding artists a place to hone their craft, so that they are able to take them to other stages, maybe even the Broadway stage,” said Harding.

Harding says Black Widow is special to Essential Theater because the writer is a graduate of the theatre program.

“I think that it is essential for us to get new good plays out there by and for African Americans. There just aren’t a lot out there,” said Harding.

The show dates are February 18 and 19 at 7 p.m.

Poets treat patrons to a night of love, passion ASHLEY WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Cars lined the street as couples and a few singles flowed into Amen Ra’s Bookshop for a night of love and spoken word on Valentine’s Day. The low-lit room was filled with African art displayed on the wall and tables draped in red and white cloth.

ValenRhyme, hosted by Black on Black Rhyme, is dedicated to the art of love and the poets who use words to reveal the emotions behind it.

Keith Rodgers, CEO and founder of Black on Black Rhyme, said it started eight years ago with the mission to provide good food and entertainment at an affordable price to people on Valentine’s Day. “In most restaurants you have to make a reservation and the food is expensive.

Here we want the patrons to really enjoy themselves, the food and each other,” Rodgers said. “We like to incorporate themes that are based on something black: black love,

black erotica, black people.”

The sold out audience was filled with love birds of all ages. Couples sat close together at candle lit tables as the poets and singers took the mic one by one.

The acoustic sounds of the guitar had the audience swaying back forth, while the lust-filled lines of the erotic poems had couples giving each other sensual looks and playful kisses.

Singers serenaded the audience with melodies of love and affection that brought the crowd to its feet in applause.

Oluwatito “Trooth” Balewa, member of Black on Black Rhyme, said he enjoyed the turnout and the interaction with the crowd.

“I am using my voice to bring change and light to world in all aspects of life, including love,” Balewa said.

Balewa performed original pieces on loving some one for them versus the way they look and black erotica, using his words to deeply describe his feelings of knowing when you have found your soul mate.

The biggest act of love at was the tribute to Amen

Ra’s Owner Dana Dennard’s birthday.

“Dr. Dana Dennard is the truest representation and symbol of what it means to express to selfless love,” said Balewa.

Dennard shed tears as the poets paid tribute to his outstanding character.

Tiffany Graham, 22, a senior theatre student from Tampa, came to the event with a friend, and said she enjoyed the event.

The performances and various couple throughout the crowd gave her hope that she might find love, she said.

“I am not typically big on the whole Valentine’s Day thing,” Graham said as she explained that this event actually gave her hope that one day she might find true love.

“Seeing all the people here tonight with their significant others made me realize that even single I have something to look forward to with love,” said Graham.

ASHLEY WILLIAMS FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM

Black Archives honors war heroes KELLE’ WYATT STAFF WRITER

This year, the United States will begin its fiveyear celebration of the 150th anniversary of the American civil war. This sesquicentennial will show the contributions of blacks and their role in the military.

“Every year the Black Archives does an event in correlation of the National Black History month theme,” said Director and event coordinator Murell Dawson.

This year’s national theme

is “Blacks in the Civil War.” Florida A&M’s Student Government Association, in collaboration with the MeekEaton Black Archives, will honor heroes and trailblazers in an event called “Forever Brave: A Community Celebration of the African- American Military Experience.”

The event starts Friday at 10:30 a.m. and will celebrate and recognize the contributions of African Americans through music, historical re-enactments, and dramatic interpretations.

“It is to reinforce, emphasize,

and celebrate the fact that African-Americans have and still contribute to our nation’s history,” said Dawson.

“The military is one of the hundreds of things African Americans have done for this country, and it’s something that not just us as blacks, but everyone should be proud of.”

Friday is also the opening of a new and special exhibition, “Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory: African Americans during the Civil War.”

Jasmine Cafe and Lounge, located between downtown Duval and Adams Street, brings a splash of global flavor to the local market.

Restaurant Owner Roger Unger opened the establishment nearly 10 years ago. Unger said his restaurant was one of the first sushi restaurants in the area.

Although Jasmine specializes in made-to-order Japanese delicacies, its menu presents a variety of food.

“There are a lot of misconceptions about sushi.

Less than half of our dishes are raw,” he said. “You’re not just stuck with sushi and fish.

We have salads, sandwiches and wraps, too.”

Ivy Williams, a 20-year-old International Affairs student at Florida State University, is a frequent customer.

“You can tell the person took their time,” Williams said.

Dorlande Charles, a senior political science student from Orlando, was introduced to Jasmine last semester, and was impressed by the atmosphere.

“It’s not like other places,” said Charles. “It’s not at that point where there are too many people and you have to wait too long for your food.”

ASHLEY WILLIAMS

BRITTNEY LAWS

FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM

FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM

‘Just Go With It’ maintains status quo

MATTHEW RICHARDSON SCHOOL NEWS EDITOR

“Just Go With It,” is the perfect Valentine’s Day date movie. Unfortunately, it’s about as cliché as giving a box of candy and flowers to a date.

If you’ve already seen the stage play, “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” and “Problem Child 2,” then “Just Go With It” will be nothing new.

The movie stars comedian Adam Sandler, Jennifer Aniston, and a handful of supporting actors and actresses who strive to add color to a movie that is plainly black and white.

The premise of the movie surrounds Danny, played

by Sandler, a love-stricken doormat turned playboy.

After overhearing his brideto-be speak poorly about his family and compare his nose to a zucchini, heartbroken Danny develops a scheme to get the ladies without ever having to commit.

Zeroing in on some women’s nurturing natures, Danny dons his wedding ring and comes up with sap stories about his imaginary abusive wife; ranging from infidelity to physical abuse to drug addiction.

Danny’s plan works until he meets who he believes is his dream woman Palmer, played by the sexy Brooklyn Decker. Everything goes well until Palmer discovers Danny’s “marriage.”

Forced to come up with a quick lie, Danny panics and says he is getting a divorce— enter Aniston’s character Katherine. An overworked and stressed out single mother, Katherine works as Danny’s assistant, whose occupation is a successful plastic surgeon. Along with Katherine’s multiple daily duties, Danny enlists her as his divorce wife-to-be.

Lie after lie dig Danny and Katherine into a hole so deep that by the middle of the movie, both have been “married twice,” and are stuck in an abusive relationship with two kids.

The kids are the only honest component within the web of lies, as they are actually Katherine’s actual kids.

Bailee Madison stars as Maggie and Griffin Gluck stars as Michael, the lovable but mischievous kids that swindle Danny’s money and con him into taking them to Hawaii. Within a cliché film, the kids gave the movie a funny edge with their adult dialogue and mature mannerisms.

While “Just Go With It,” was a joy to watch, you could almost see the kiss between Katherine and Danny at the opening credits. It was over before it even began, but hey, it’s Valentine’s Day, so, I just went with it.

KELLE’ WYATT FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM

MATTHEW RICHARDSON FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM

The Famuan

TheFamuanOnline.com

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

famuancomics2011@gmail.com

7 Comics

Campus Cruiser by Chidozie Acey

Andy Capp by Reg Smythe

BC by Johnny Hart

Ben by Daniel Shelton

Get Fuzzy by Darby Conley

Girls & Sports by Justin Borus and Andrew Feinstein

Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz

Pickles by Brian Crane

Jump Start by Robb Armstrong

Momma by Mell Lazarus

Arlo and Janis by Jimmy Johnson

Sports 8

TheFamuanOnline.com

The Famuan

famuansports@gmail.com

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Men on fire

Keenan Doanes The Famuan Jeremy Dean drives to the bucket during a 69-63 Valentines Day victory.

TYRONE LAW CORRESPONDENT The Florida A & M men’s basketball team got 31 points

from its bench, defeating the Delaware State Hornets 6963 Monday night at the Al Lawson Center.

The Rattlers (10-15, 6-6 MEAC) jumped out to an early lead against the Hornets (9-15, 5-7 MEAC) at the start of the game. They finished the first half with 29 points and 23 rebounds.

Head coach Eugene Harris said he admired the way the team has played its last four games, but wont start celebrating too early.

“We’re going to take it one game at a time. We won’t be a team that’s just going to lie down, we’re going to go into our next three games on the road and play even harder,” Harris said.

Rebounds played a largr role than normal role in the Rattlers’ triumph. The team had twice as many rebounds as it’s opponents, 44 to the Hornets 22.

Junior forward Jeremy Dean contributed four offensive and five defensive rebounds.

Delaware State junior guards Jay Threatt and Desi Washington ended the game with a combined 38 points and four steals.

The team’s win over the Hornets allows the Rattlers to go on the road on a fourgame winning streak. If the team wins its next game, it will have its longest streak since the 08-09 season.

Sophomore guard Amin Stevens expressed his concern about the team’s road record.

“We hope to continue the streak, and not only win

home games, but games on the road as well,” he said.

Stevens led the game with 16 points, nine rebounds, and one block.

“I feel as though I played well, but I could have done better defensively,” Stevens said.

Junior guard Chris Watson contributed 12 points and two assist, and was the team’s second highest scorer.

When ask how he felt about the win Watson stated his enthusiasm.

“This was a very big win.

We are now ranked higher in the conference and I’m glad I can contribute to my team.

We needed this win to help us beat Arkansas and win on the road,” Watson said.

The Rattlers are currently 11-1 at home and have two more home games left in the Al Lawson Center this season.

With the win, the Rattlers moved to sixth place in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). The win streak and home record present an opportunity for the team to make a run at a better seeding in the conference tournament.

The next game will be against Arkasas (15-9, 5-6 in the SEC) on Feb. 16 in Fayetteville, Ark. The team’s next home game will be Saturday, Feb. 26 at 8 p.m. against the North Carolina Central Eagles.

TYRONE LAW

JORDAN1.CULVER@GMAIL.COM

Rattlers ruin DSU’s Valentine’s TIANA POITIER CORRESPONDENT The number three team in three-pointers made this season in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference received a surprise from the bench on Valentine’s Day against Delaware State.

Christian Rateree showed the Hornets no love on Monday. Her four longrange bombs demolished her opponent’s every attempt to crawl back within contention.

“Chris started some this season; she’s been on and off the bench,” said head coach LeDawn Gibson.

Gibson told her when her number is called, go out there, and “be ready to do what you do best: shoot and direct the team at the point guard position.”

Rateree had 14 of the 18 points off a shorthanded Lady Rattler bench. Tamika McKelton and Antonia Bennett combined for 41 points and 25 rebounds. Bennett followed Saturday’s performance with a 26-point, 18-rebound performance Monday.

“It’s really good to have a deep bench when teams key in on our main shooters, scorers, and key in on ‘red’ and I,” McKelton said.

Golf

The Florida A&M golf team is opening their spring schedule this weekend at the Frito-Lay/AT&T Intercollegiate in Philadelphia, Miss.

The tournament will be held at the Azaleas at Dancing Rabbit Golf Club. Shephard Archie III and Elijah Jackson have experience with the course. Archie finished first in the tournament as an individual last year. FAMU finished fourth as a team.

The Azaleas at Dancing Rabbit Golf Club is the number two ranked golf course in Miss. according to Golfweek. It is ranked number 18 nationally.

Baseball

The Florida A&M University baseball team will begin their 2011 campaign when the team travels to Jackson, Miss. on the Feb. 18 for the second annual Jackson State University tournament.

The team will compete against Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Prairie View A&M and tournament host, Jackson State in the three-day competition, which will give a sneak peek at the team’s progress as it begins its rebuilding phase.

The JSU tournament will be the first chance for the Rattlers to showcase their skills under new head coach Brett Richardson.

Bowling

Keenan Doanes The Famuan A Valentine’s Day victory for the Lady Rattlers surprised many, including the MEAC.

McKelton said with everybody stepping up off the bench, the team has extra weapons and is just waiting for the opponent.

Bennett and McKelton’s scoring averages are two of the top three in the MEAC. Bennett and Qiana Donald combined for 17 rebounds per game. The pair make up the best rebounding tandem in the MEAC. “It seems like everyday another player contributes to McKelton and Bennett’s scoring,” Gibson said.

In a low-scoring game against Morgan State on Feb. 5, Bennett and McKelton combined for 20 points and FAMU lost by nine.

In a TV interview Gibson emphasized how other players needed to step up.

Since the Morgan State game, the Lady Rattlers are averaging 74 points and have won by double-digits in three straight games.

“Its good when our players off the bench are playing well. It gives them and us confidence,” McKelton

said when asked if bench production takes pressure off the starters.

The Lady Rattlers are third in the MEAC standings with five games left on the schedule.

“We are trying to get back on the same page for the MEAC tournament and it’s coming,” Gibson said.

FAMU hits the road again to face Howard University in Washington D.C. on Saturday .

Last weekend the Lady Rattlers Bowling team competed in the NCAA Bowling Tournament.

Although the team finished in third place, the team has been working hard not only in the alley, but also to serve the campus of Florida A&M and maintaining its good reputation.

Galimore Lane is still being reconstructed, which prompts practice sessions at Seminole Bowl.

Currently the Lady Rattlers are preparing for their championship game that will be held on Mar. 18,.

With only a few games left in the season and through determination, motivation and Rattler pride, the Rattlers plan to end its season on a winning note.

TIANA POITIER FAMUANSPORTS@GMAIL.COM

Dean adjusts to new opponents, smaller team, earlier start ELLIOT BONNER CORRESPONDENT Most athletes gradually fall in love with their craft. Britney Dean, a junior tennis player at Florida A&M, found her love immediately.

She began playing at nine years old and played in the United States Tennis Association (USTA) junior leagues until high school.

Early on in her career, she wanted to stop playing and just be a kid. The presence of her dad always pushed her to continue to play.

“My dad was very supportive,” Dean said. “He drove me to all my games and he was definitely a supportive sideline coach.”

She received private tennis lesson with Ernie Peterson.

Dean explained that her and Peterson had a vey close relationship until he passed away spring of last year.

“Coach Peterson helped me tremendously throughout the years I have been playing tennis,” Dean said.

“Coach Peterson did not only teach me about tennis, but also about life,” Dean said.

Since coming to collegiate competition, the biggest adjustment for Dean has been the size of the team.

“In high school, the tennis team was much bigger than here at FAMU,” Dean said.

Dean said it was hard playing with a

Keilan Scott The Famuan Brittney Dean

smaller group of players, but not harder than waking up for workouts.

“Waking up for 6 a.m. workouts were almost the end of me,” she said.

Dean said that the early training helped her become a faster and stronger player.

“Dean is a very personal teammate,” teammate Alexis Brown said. ”Sometimes her personal issues used to flow on the court.”

Dean has learned from her obstacles and has become a better tennis player for it Brown said.

“She is a fighter and she works hard for her points,” freshman teammate Shani Williams said.

ELLIOT BONNER FAMUANSPORTS@GMAIL.COM