THE STUDENT VOICE OF FLORIDA AGRICULTURAL AND MECHANICAL UNIVERSITY
“The Number 1 HBCU Newspaper” According to the Black College Communication Association
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Wednesday, January 26, 2011
VOL. 112 ISSUE 22
Lasaki remembered SASHA GUNTER CORRESPONDENT Family, friends and teachers packed Perry-Paige Auditorium Tuesday for the memorial service of a fallen Rattler. Rasheed Lasaki, a 25-yearold senior Criminal Justice student from Miami, was shot Jan. 17 in the parking lot of Greystone Place Apartments on Jackson Bluff Road. He died of his injuries at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. In honor of Lasaki, a candlelight vigil service was given at Perry-Paige Auditorium Tuesday at 11 a.m. The program opened with a prayer from the Florida A&M Student National Alumni Association President Alger Studstill Jr. Following the prayer, faculty, students, family and friends were able to reflect memorable times they had with Lasaki. Precious Anderson, 22, a FAMU alumna from Miami, remembered her close friend for being over-protective about her safety. “Rasheed used to always
NEWS BRIEFS INTERNATIONAL
MANILA, Philippines (AP) — A powerful blast from a suspected bomb ripped through a bus in the Philippine capital’s financial district Tuesday, tearing a huge hole in the vehicle and spraying shrapnel at the passengers. The force of the explosion, believed to have come from a remotely detonated mortar round, also punched fist-size holes in a concrete wall of a nearby upscale compound in Makati city, officials said. SOURCE: ASSOCIATED PRESS
WEATHER Wednesday
55 32 Thursday
58 32 Friday
63 35
Lasaki was expected to graduate with a degree in criminal justice this April. Although he won’t be accepting his diploma physically, according to remarks made by President James Ammons during the ceremony, he and his administration are working on honoring the family with a posthumous degree. Along with the announcement of a posthumous degree, the parents of Lasaki, father Taofic Lasaki and mother Laura Lasaki, also were presented with a plaque and balloons released in honor of their son. The Juvenile Justice Club hosted the memorial service. Club member Douglas Sheffield respected Lasaki for being a good student. “Although I did not know him personally, I value the drive he had to push forward and continue to go to school to make his life better and others,” said Sheffield, who is from Fort Daune Robin The Famuan Lauderdale, Fla. Rasheed Lasaki’s mother, Laura Lasaki, remembers her son. The service concluded with fuss with me about leaving the Anderson as she laughed about LASAKI 4 door of my house open,” said the time they shared.
president for Academic Affairs, in an email. “Having her on our campus speaks volumes for the ANGELOU 6
ADAMS 4
TANYA GLOVER STAFF WRITER
Courtesy to The Famuan Maya Angelou to speak tonight in the new Al Lawson Center.
filmmaker, dramatist and civil rights activist. “Dr. Angelou is an accomplished poet of the highest caliber,” said Cynthia Hughes Harris, FAMU’s provost and vice
LANISE HARRIS CORRESPONDENT Adams Street, once a lone thoroughfare into downtown Tallahassee and the campus of Florida A&M is now bustling with black businesses and consumers. Olean McCaskill, the owner of Olean’s Cafe on South Adams Street, descriptively painted the picture of her restaurant’s humble beginning in 1997 and how it has flourished ever since. Things are much different now, but the surge of new businesses on Adams Street makes ‘Momma O’… “thankful to serve the public and her ‘children.’” Since opening, businesses like G&G Caribbean Restaurant, Eve’s Beauty Supply, and Ujamaa Embroidery by Design have served masses of black consumers that flock to the portion of Adams Street adjacent to the FAMU campus. G&G Caribbean Restaurant was established at 313 N. Macomb St in 2000 and has since opened two more restaurants: one at 2039 W. Tennessee St., and most recently at 1815 S. Adams St. Owner Ken Gallimore, from Saint Anne, Jamaica bought and renovated the restaurant on Adams Street and has seen a “mixed crowd” ever since. The Adams Street location opened in March 2010 and employees say customer traffic is consistent with the Pensacola Street and Macomb Street locations. “Friday nights at G&G’s has turned into ‘Forever Fridays,’ a hang-out-spot for college kids,” said employee Nordene Bartley. Bartley started the social
‘Caged bird’ will ‘sing’ for eager students Maya Angelou is considered one of the most influential voices of 20th century. With oft-quoted lines like, “You may write me down in history with you bitter twisted lies; you may trod me in the very dirt, but still, like dust, I’ll rise,” it is no surprise she is well-renowned. Angelou will appear at the Alfred Lawson, Jr. Multipurpose Center and Teaching Gymnasium as part of the 2010-2011 Lyceum series today at 7:30 p.m. A global renaissance woman, Angelou is respected as a poet, best-selling author, educator, producer, actress, historian,
A beacon for black business
The hunt is on for adequate parking spaces on campus ALICIA MCKNIGHT STAFF WRITER
Enrollment is at an all-time high at Florida A&M and some students claim there is insufficient parking on campus. However, Assistant Director of Parking Administrative Services John Kirby said there is not a parking issue. “Students that are having trouble finding parking should try parking at the Eugenia Street lot and the Bragg stadium lot,” said Kirby. “Although these parking lots may be far from student’s classes, parking spots are usually available for students throughout the day.” Keilan Scott, 20, a junior photography student from Orlando, said while there J. L. Evans The Famuan may be parking available, students say the Students complain about lack of parking. parking is not in preferable locations.
“I think with the amount of students we have including faculty, there is not enough convenient parking,” said Scott. “Even if I park at the stadium, it’s too far from some of my classes.” Kirby said Department of Public Safety staff has spoken with Facilities Planning Department officials about the need for a second garage, but the dates and a location have not been established. Mary Blackmon, 20, a junior education student from Orlando, said she almost ran out of gas in the garage looking for a parking space. With the influx of so many first-year students, on-campus housing has posed a problem causing many students to commute. Students are speculating that
Sports
Lifestyles
Home double-header brings surprise as men defeat top ranked MEAC foe Hampton, 62-58.
Medication and chemotherapy contribute to a drastic change in student’s physical appearance.
Sports | 8
Lifestyles | 6
PARKING 4
2 Calendar
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Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Events and Announcements Announcements
All are welcome. Bring a friend. For more information contact Deidre Williams at deidrepwilliams@hotmail. com.
The National Society of Pershing Rifles is having an interest meeting in Howard Hall Auditorium Thursday, Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. For more information e-mail kimberly_dantica1@yahoo.com.
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.
The FAMU Strikers will be having a Queen of Queen of the Hill Pageant taking place Feb. 20, 2011 at Perry Paige auditorium. Tickets are available for purchase from any Striker and contestant taking part in the event. For more information e-mail jhannah2010@ yahoo.com and/or call 954-200-3541. Join Abundant Life Fellowship World Outreach Center for CAMPUS BIBLE STUDY every Thursday starting tomorrow Jan. 27 at 3 p.m. in the William Gray Complex (the white building in front of Wheatley Hall and Cropper Hall). Come and be refreshed by a practical and easy-to-apply word for daily living.
Employment 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.
BIBLE STUDY
COLLEGIATE MINISTRY WALKING DISTANCE SHUTTLE
TUE 7:00 p.m.
SUN. 9:30 a.m.
SUN. 7:45 a.m.
SUN. 11:00 a.m
WED. 6:30 p.m.
TUE. 12:00 p.m. WED. 7:00 P.M.
SUN. 9:45 a.m.
SUN. 7:30 a.m.
SUN. 11:00 a.m
THURS. 7:00 p.m. - 8:30
THURS. 6:15 p.m. - 6:45
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
We Deliver!
*
Carry-Out Additional Toppings Available
Large Pizza Cheese or Pepperoni Order 3 or More, We’ll Deliver!
Call (850) 599- 3159 for ad inquiry
Two Large Orders of Baked Spaghetti Served with Fresh Baked Howie bread
Corrections
FREE FLAVORED PIZZA CRUST! Original • Butter • Butter cheese • Onion • Cajun Garlic Herb • Ranch • Sesame
SERVING FAMU AREA
1496 Apalachee Pkwy. next to Blockbusters Video
Plus tax & delivery. At participating locations.
942-6800
101935
*Delivery Extra
For corrections please email Famuancalendar@gmail.com.
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The Famuan Wednesday, January 26, 2011
famuan.metro@gmail.com
State of JASON LAWRENCE STAFF EDITOR
President Obama delivered the State of the Union address on Tuesday night. Only this year, it was before a slightly different audience: one filled with freshmen GOP lawmakers. Nonetheless, the sobering, all-encompassing speech was met with warm reception from all member of Congress, new and old alike. The president opened his speech by paying homage to victims of the Arizona shooting rampage. “Tucson reminded of something…it reminded us that we are a part of something greater, aside from political parties,” said Obama of the recent shootings in Arizona which killed six and severely injured Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. As expected, Obama’s speech was centered on the economy. “The economy is growing again…thanks to the steps taken by members of congress in December,” said the president. The national unemployment rate remains stagnant a 9.4 percent, according to December figures released in January by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. “This is our ‘Sputnik moment.’ If we want to win the future, we must win the race to educate our kids,” said Obama in reference to the 1950s Soviet Union and American race to space, job growth, innovation and the importance of reforming education in America. “None of us can predict where the next industry will be or where new jobs will come from.” He also outlined the importance of the Affordable Healthcare for America Act, which passed last March, but was voted down in the House just weeks ago. Besides being laden with dynamic dialogue concerning the brackish state of the nation’s economy and the chilly language of a fiveyear freeze on some government expenditures, the annual State of the Union address was delivered in an unusual fashion. For the first time in history, Democratic and GOP lawmakers crossed the aisle in the House chamber to listen to the president’s speech. Sen. Mark Udall (D-Colo.) hoped the unorthodox seating arrangements would demonstrate to the country that despite the country’s toxic political environment, members of Congress are more than
Center off ers change cheap dental CHAKIARA TUCKER CORRESPONDENT
Pablo Martinez Monsivais, Pool AP Photo President Barack Obama delivers his State of the Union address on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2011. Vice President Joe Biden and House Speaker John Boehner of Ohio are at rear.
willing to work together. “Beyond custom, there is no rule or reason that on this night we should emphasize divided government, separated by party, instead of being seen united as a country,” wrote Udall in a Jan. 19 letter to House and Senate leaders. Although not all members of congress were sold on the staged seating plan for last night’s executive address, it is believed many sat in pairs. Florida’s two senators, freshman Republican Marco Rubio and veteran Democrat Bill Nelson could be seen “mixing it up.”
JASON LAWRENCE FAMUAN.METRO@GMAIL.COM
Library branch expands
Jasmine Mitchell The Famuan The newly expanded B.L Perry branch is open Tuesday through Saturday.
HAROLD ANDERSON CORRESPONDENT A part of the Leon County Public Library System recently received a facelift and area residents like what they see. The Dr. Benjamin L. Perry Branch of the county’s library system, located at 2817 S. Adam Street, underwent a $1.8 million expansion that culminated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony last month. The growth added to the branch’s technological amenities and patron traffic. “This has been a project that has been in the works for about 10 years,” said Cay Hohmeister, director of the Leroy Collins Leon County Public Library System. The 3000-square-foot addition includes parking, 21 computers, a student reading area and various laptop stations. “The library was built in 2001 and needed some expansion in order to keep up with the demands of its patrons,” said Beverly Bass, the library branch’s manager. The expansion not only added more technology to the library, but it also added functionality to benefit its users. “Before the renovations, most of the computers were aligned across the front and throughout the library in various cubicles,” said Bass. “Now, all of our computers are aligned across the back of the library and we have space in the front for laptop stations.” Many of the patrons of the library
Metro News 3
have noticed the changes made to the south side library. “You don’t feel like everyone is crowded around you anymore when you come to B.L. Perry,” said Keona Parker, a 20-year-old student at Tallahassee Community College. The branch’s expansion seems to have attracted new patrons. “After the addition the traffic in the library has picked up tremendously,” said Bass. On a typical day, within the first hour of opening, there is a 30-minute wait to use the computers. The branch serves up to 300 users per day, 6000 users per week, and 12,000 users per month, according to Bass. “Due to the community and the rising student population, the need for computers and other technology has become increasingly necessary,” said Bass. Many people who frequent the library do not own computers and utilize the library to attend to their daily technological needs such as checking email, applying for jobs or to cruise social networks. “Even some elderly citizens come into the library to learn how to use the computer and to keep up on their reading,” said Bass. The branch owes its namesake to former Florida A&M president, Benjamin L. Perry.
HAROLD ANDERSON FAMUAN.METRO@GMAIL.COM
The Smile Connection, located in the Bond Community Health Center, now offers discount dental services to the area’s destitute. Opening its doors in 2010, The Smile Connection is the brainchild of J.R. Richards, CEO of Bond Community Health Center, located at 1720 South Gadsden St. Oral health is an issue that is extremely overlooked in low-income communities. Most dental procedures are very costly and many dental offices do not accept Medicaid. “I was surprised to see that no one in the community was accepting adults or Medicaid,” said Ethel Tijerno, a dental hygienist in the office. Anyone can receive services at The Smile Connection. Costs of procedures are based on a sliding fee scale if the family does not have insurance. Discounts on procedures range from 20 percent to 80 percent and is determined by the income and the size of the household. “I like working in public health, the patients are more appreciative for the services they receive,” said Jennifer Manuel, also a dental hygienist in the office. The office provides services such as oral extractions, cleanings, sealants and a host
of other dental procedures. Education on oral hygiene is very rare among most people. Children especially, are usually scared to visit dentist offices. They hear negative things about seeing a dentist and believe that all dental procedures are painful. Quite the contrary according to Tijerno, who says procedures like cleanings, fillings and the application of sealants are pain-free. She believes it is up to parents to inform their children about the importance of caring for their teeth. Lack of oral hygiene leads to gum disease, which was found by the American Dental Association in 2010 to be linked to diabetes and heart disease. Although grant money was used to start the dental office, it must now rely on the revenue it generates from its patients. “We have to work hard to keep our doors open,” said Dr. Kanesha Cole, a third generation Florida A&M alumna and primary dentist in the office. In the next few years, Cole would like to expand the size of The Smile Connection so it can serve more patients. Appointments can be made by phone at (850) 521-5121.
CHAKIARA TUCKER
FAMUAN.METRO@GMAIL.COM
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Wednesday, January 26, 2011
iRattler sheds its skin SHARI KARESH STAFF WRITER Florida A&M’s iRattler IT system is implementing new and resourceful ways to apply for graduation and retrieve transcripts online. Donald E. Palm, a professor and the vice president of Academic Affairs is excited about the improvements. “We are at the point now wher e we are implement some new things. Online transcripts, credits for high school and community colleges are starting this spring,” Palm said. “This is going to help us with our documentation.” Robert T. Seniors, the former vice president of Enterprise Information Technology has been moved to a new department, while Michael A. James has become the interim head of EIT until a replacement is found. “Since then I have been taking the time to ensure that all the duties and responsibilities of EIT are carried out in an efficient and effective manner,” James said via e-mail interview. James has worked at FAMU for 30 years. He has held many positions during his tenure with the university. He began his career in the registrar’s office, eventually serving as assistant university registrar then as the registrar. In 2006, he transitioned to EIT, where he held the position of Director, iRattler Campus Solutions and more recently the Interim Chief Information Officer What caused the sudden change of job positions and brainstorming to improve
the system was the constant problems iRattler has at the beginning of every semester. The overload of students trying to use iRattler at once creates a problem for faculty and students alike. The system cannot accommodate everyone at once, therefore the system crashes and students are left unregistered. “Some improvements have been made to the system’s architecture that should help alleviate the system’s performance issues that were experienced at the beginning of the semester,” James said. Stephen Brown, 21, a fourth-year marketing student registered early and had trouble retrieving his schedule. “I was trying to print my official schedule. I wanted to drop a class and see if a class opened up and I couldn’t do that.” Brown said. “I couldn’t print out my official schedule, so the first day I missed class was because I didn’t know where any of my classes were.” In the past, there have been some issues at FAMU with security and student records. Since then more security has been added to iRattler. “Additional security has also been added to the direct deposit functionality in an effort to eliminate the occurrence of fraudulent activities,” James said James also explained that there would be enhancements over the next 12 months that will benefit future applicants, the student body, alumni and staff. The one stop shop was designed for the student’s convenience. It provides a central place where students can
take care of all their academic needs at the beginning of the semester. There they can receive overrides for classes and clear holds on their account. This prevents students going to several administrative buildings to complete the registration process.Greg Arline, an Alumni of FAMU, graduated in 2008 from the business Administration program and had frustrating memories of the “one stop shop”. “That was chaotic, everyone was trying to register for classes,” Arline said. But to minimize the long wait for classes, James advised tat students register early. “EIT strongly encourages students to take advantage of the early registration period,” said James. The University is currently in the process of agreeing on a new vendor contract since September 2010. A new vendor will address the system performance issues. “We are dedicated to ensuring that the new solution will provide optimal performance during peak periods and has the ability to accommodate enrollment growth,” said James. “We are working diligently to ensure that the system is available to the students 24 hours, 7 days a week. We are happy to report that in spite of the performance issues experienced at the beginning of the semester over 12,000 students successfully registered,” James said.
SHARI KARESH FAMUANNEWS@GMAIL.COM
ADAMS
PARKING freshmen couldn’t receive parking decals until their sophomore year. The speculation about parking services not issuing decals to freshmen is untrue. According to the Parking and Traffic Regulations handbook, “freshmen residents (in university housing) shall not be permitted to possess and register a vehicle on campus. Freshmen residents violating this provision either intentionally or fraudulently shall be referred to the University Student Disciplinary Officer.”
LASAKI
Lasaki
remarks from Pastor O.J. Simmons of Jacob Chapel. Hakeem Lasaki, 29, Rasheed’s older brother, spoke on behalf of the family. Hakeem said he wanted to let others know that the support they need
Lanise Harris The Famuan Eve’s Beauty Supply on South Adams Street attracts hoardes of black consumers.
is able to cater to more of them, thanks to more parking spaces. But life for the entrepreneurs isn’t always easy. Keith Bowers, a business planner knows first-hand the headaches that come with being an entrepreneur. As director of the Small Business Development Center at FAMU, Bowers has owned a business and worked behind the desk as a lender to small businesses.
He offers advice to future business owners, particularly like those on Adams Street. “The best thing to do is to put your thoughts down on paper…from point A to B…business planning is the most important part. Putting together a plan for the business to operate,” said Bowers.
First year students are able to register online on the university website or at the Department of Public Safety located at 2400 Wahnish Way. In 2005, Parking Services and the FAMU Police Department joined to form the Department of Public Safety. Any questions concerning parking violations should be handled through the police department and any appeals should be handled through the parking services department. Students who have questions about rules and regulations should refer to the Parking
as a family is someone coming forward to help with the investigation. “If anyone knows anything please tell someone,” Hakeem said. “It is not snitching when the crime is petty. No one deserves to die for this reason and not have If you have information about the crime, call Crime Stoppers at (850) 574-8477
SASHA GUNTER FAMUANNEWS@GMAIL.COM
DRS searches for new leader SHARI KARESH STAFF WRITER
FAMU DRS is hoping to find its new superintendent in February, since Ronald Holmes resigned in July 2010 after serving in the position for a year-and-a-half. The committee is screening 16 applicants and will narrow it to three candidates by the end of February. The interview will consist of a point system that will determine the applicant’s level of expertise. Bill Johnson, the interim superintendent, explained the procedure in which the superintendent will be chosen. “The provost, dean and president appointed Dr. Gwendolyn Trotter, director for Teachers of New Era, to chairmen of the committee. They have gone through the preliminaries, already,” said Johnson. “Now they have an adequate pool of applicants to choose from and are screening them. They will be interviewing the final three at the end of February.” FAMU’s Provost Cynthia HughesHarris selected the search committee that consists of people involved in the community, FAMU DRS faculty, college of education faculty and students. Chelsea Washington, 18, a student at FAMU DRS was chosen to observe the search committee and be a representative for the students’ opinion about the superintendent. She is duel enrolled at FAMU and FAMU DRS. “I think its good that they have a student here to actually observe and be involved in the process of finding a new superintendent,” said Washington. “I feel like we have a lot to say like everyone else in the search and I feel a student should be voiced because it’s a big part of our education.” Washington, a senior, said that seniors should be held responsible for helping to create a better education for underclassmen. “I think as a senior, its our responsibility to set a good example for those that come up behind us. To show students the correct way in what should be done as a student and model the right attitude in educational goals and aspirations as a student,” Washington said.
LANISE HARRIS FAMUAN.METRO@GMAIL.COM and Traffic Regulations handbook. A copy of the handbook can be found and printed online at the university’s website or by visiting the department of public safety. Visitors who need to park on campus should visit the welcome center located at 1420 Wahnish Way to secure a parking permit. If students or faculty are having issues or have any questions about parking call (850) 561-2205.
ALICIA MCKNIGHT FAMUANNEWS@GMAIL.COM
TheFamuanOnline.com
scene at the restaurant and has noticed an increase in business ever since. Eve’s Beauty Supplys a beauty supply store that caters to every age, gender and race. “Eve’s definitely caters to the black consumer,” said James Summer, an employee at Eve’s Beauty Supply from Dallas. Ujamaa, spent a bulk of its existence at 1815 S. Adams St, but thanks to its former, fruitful Adams Street location, it had to relocate to its current South Monroe store. “The lack of parking didn’t benefit my customers,” said co-owner Robert Williams, who has experienced his fair share of moving since his store opened in 1991.Aside from its former Adams Street location, Ujaama has been a tenant in Governor’s Square Mall. Ujamaa specializes in designing embroidered Greek paraphernalia, pins, paddles and other items that tout organizations of any kind. Now that the store is on South Monroe, Williams has noticed a surge in patrons and
LaGretta Johnson The Famuan
SHARI KARESH FAMUANNEWS@GMAIL.COM
Wednesday, January 26, 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
Opinions 5
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State of the Union-work in progress President Barack Obama gave his annual State of the Union address last night, his third in his four-year term. Though this editorial was written before the airing of the actual address, all signs point to it discussing one topic in particular- the economy. With gas rising above three dollars per gallon (for the first time making me happy to not possess a car), the unemployment rate hovering above 9.4 percent and a national deficit somewhere in the neighborhood of $11 trillion, all else takes a backseat to getting America working. There’s very little debate
Golden voice still haunted by murky past Political Cartoon
that Obama is a gifted orator, but will the address be enough? With a very partisan environment in Washington, Democrats find it difficult to make any decisions and Republicans find it difficult to make any decisions other than shooting down legislation. When the GOP gained 63 seats in the House of Representatives, Democrats knew that difficulties would arise. Republican legislators made it very clear that they were unwilling to collaborate with the other side of the aisle. This mindset has caused the American people to suffer. With the country in its
current state, Obama is forced to water down his plan for economic repair in order to appease GOP interests. As it has come out so far, attempting to please everyone has shafted American citizens and weakened what was once the strongest economy in the world. The State of the Union address is only as powerful as the results that it brings about. The address will no doubt make good points and promote high ideals, but can we as a people and they as a government come together to achieve these promises? The time has come and
gone for us as a nation to put aside the partisan bickering and name-calling. We are falling behind. We’ve become so caught up in progressing our own political or personal agenda that we’ve forgotten to pay attention to the needs and wants of our country. We profess to be the greatest country in the world. We don’t believe we hold that title at the current moment. We have before, and we most certainly can achieve it again. But we have to work.
Julian Kemper Editorial Board.
for
the
FERNESHA HURST 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
METRO NEWS EDITOR: famuan.metro@gmail.com Jason Lawrence
OPINIONS EDITOR: famuanopinions@gmail.com Khristanda Cooper
FERNESHA HURST COLUMNIST
We have all heard the saying “looks can be deceiving.” This phrase completely describes what happened to Ted Williams or “The Man with the Golden Voice.” Williams was living on the street and instantly became famous when he was discovered by a videographer on a street ramp. Williams was holding a sign that simply said “I have a God-given golden voice” and the videographer started filming him. The video of Williams using his “golden” voice was posted on the Internet, and he literally became famous overnight. He was given offers and opportunities that completely changed his life. Earlier in his life, he had been a professional radio broadcaster, but his addiction to drugs and alcohol landed him on the streets. After his video debut, he began receiving numerous job offers as well as television and radio appearances, asking him to use his vocal skills. He accepted jobs with MSNBC and the Cleveland Cavaliers. But more importantly, this “twist of fate” made it possible for Williams to reunite with his family. As a guest on the “Dr. Phil” show, he said that he was still addicted to alcohol and was going to rehab. Williams entered rehab, following a heated argument with his daughter at the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel & Spa in Los Angeles. (This week Williams reportedly quit rehab after less than two weeks of treatment.) Having the common sense to know that you’re addicted to something and seeking treatment is a big step, which takes an enormous amount of courage. We see people on the streets all the time asking for money and often we’re skeptical to give it to them because we don’t know if that money is going toward a bottle. The media is taking full advantage of his story but is not too focused on his positive attempts to get over his addiction. The man does have an amazing story, but his journey to try to get clean should be more inspiring. It’s a good sign when someone who has the means of getting rid of an illness is willing to do so. However, everyone gets 15 minutes of fame. And once Williams’ 15 minutes are up, he’ll be left to deal with this addiction and the temptation on his own. For him, support from his family and a sponsor, would be much better than those million-dollar contracts.
F U
THE
DEPUTY OPINIONS EDITOR: Aaron Johnson
LIFESTYLES EDITOR: famuanlifestyles@gmail.com Clarece Polke
SPORTS EDITOR: famuansports@gmail.com Royal Shepherd
DEPUTY SPORTS EDITORS: Cameron Daniels
PHOTOS EDITOR: famuan.photos3@gmail.com Keenan Doanes David Fitzsimmons, The Arizona Star For those who do not know, the elephant is the symbol for the Republican party...I think this cartoon pretty much speaks for itself on the matter.
The debate over health care continues KRISTIN BRONER COLUMNIST As many Americans turn on their TVs to their local news channels, and pull up home pages on their computers, and read their daily newspapers, it is very hard too miss the debate on the health care reform. Everyone seems to be tuned into politics lately. Whether it’s expanding the Bush tax cuts, the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell policy, or most importantly, the Health Care Reform Act, everyone seems to have an opinion. Lately, I have seriously been questioning our representatives and senators. I am quite aware that as a result of the November elections, Republicans control the House of Representatives, while Democrats have a reduced majority in the Senate. Still ,I would just like to know, whose bright idea was it to repeal the Health Care Reform Act?
If that is not one of the most ignorant things I have ever heard of, then I don’t know what is. Although the Republican-controlled House passed the bill to repeal, thankfully the Senate is not expected to follow suit. Of course, I am a Democrat, and quite proud of it. And yes, I have heard both sides of the issue from a Republican’s standpoint (my mother), and a Democrat’s standpoint (my father). From either side of the aisle, the HCR is a great policy. Many are unaware of what the HCR really is and what it does for the American people. Yet, some people still feel the need to voice their opinions even when they don’t know how much the legislation benefits the American people. The HCR allows young adults to remain on their parents insurance until they are 26-years-old. I don’t know about you, but I can’t afford insurance now or even in two years when I graduate. I had a surgical biopsy this winter and my hospital bill was $6,000. I don’t know what you have, but I do not have
$6,000 to pay for my health; thank God I have insurance. However, what about the 50.7 million Americans who don’t? This bill also allows individuals with preexisting conditions to receive health care and not be denied coverage. HCR also allows individuals with life threatening illnesses like cancer, leukemia and many other serious conditions to remain on their insurance or still receive insurance. In the past few years, if an individual had pre-existing conditions or life threatening illnesses, insurance companies were allowed to go back and review these individuals’ insurance policies for error. And if an error was found they were allowed to cancel their current insurance or deny them future insurance coverage. This bill makes such actions by insurance companies illegal. If I had cancer, I wouldn’t want a representative from the insurance company calling me saying, “Hey, umm five years ago we made an error on your insurance policy so sorry, we are going to have
to cancel your insurance coverage because we made an error but mostly because you have cancer.” HCR also allows small businesses to offer their employees affordable insurance, at low cost to the company. And if the small business can’t offer their employees affordable insurance, individuals are able to receive insurance through a company called Exchanges. Many are just unaware of how great this HCR really is. My advice to all is to become familiar with the HCR. Visit www.healthcare. gov to find out all there is to know about the bill so that we all can be informed, and, most importantly, help our president fight these vultures in the legislative and judicial branch. The alternative is to continue to let the 50.7 million Americans to go without insurance or even die. The decision does rests with us, the American people.
KRISTIN BRONER FAMUANOPINIONS@GMAIL.COM
Should the Health Care Reform Act be repealed? A) Yes. B) I don’t know. C) Of course not!
DEPUTY PHOTOS EDITOR: Jasmine Mitchell
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GRAPHICS EDITOR: famuangraphics@gmail.com Kenya Mawusi
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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.
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Lifestyles 6
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Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Courtesy of the Maya Angelou Archives Widely known as the Global Reanissance Woman, Maya Angelou has been celebrated for decades as a poet, memoirist, novelist, educator, dramatist, producer, actress, historian, filmmaker and civil rights activist.
MAYA ANGELOU FAMU Lyceum series. It is designed for individuals who have achieved at the highest levels such as Dr. Angelou.” It cost approximately $67,000 to secure Angelou’s visit to FAMU. Harris said the Lyceum series anticipates the event will pay for itself with ticket sales from not only Angelou’s visit, but also other Lyceum series performances. Sharon Saunders, FAMU’s chief communications officer, said the box office sold 1,000 tickets and gave away about 1,350 complimentary student tickets.
Jessica Farmer, 21, a fourth-year English student from Deerfield Beach, Fla., has high expectations for what she described as a once in a lifetime experience. “It’s not every day that you get to see Maya Angelou,” said Farmer. “Whether you know that much about her or not, it’s an experience and you may learn a thing or two.” Some of Angelou’s most famous works include her poem and autobiography, “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” and poems “Phenomenal Woman” and “Still I Rise.” She has also acted in classic films like Alex Haley’s “Roots” and John Singleton’s “Poetic Justice,” in which some of her poems were also featured.
“Students will have the first-hand experience of seeing an accomplished poetess,” said Harris. “Someone whose poems they have read and someone whose accomplishments they have read about on their own university campus...they don’t have to go elsewhere. This individual of great renown has come to FAMU.” For more information about the FAMU Lyceum Series or ticket prices, please contact the Office of Communications at (850) 599-3413. TANYA GLOVER FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM
Mind over new body
Courtesy to The Famuan High steppers, loud drums and screaming trumpets lit the stage in the Civic Center for “Drumline Live.” The show is a choreographed marching band production featuring musicians from all over the country, including members of FAMU’s world famous marching ‘100’ band. For full coverage visit www. thefamuanonline.com.
Class honors ‘heroes’ SIMONE WRIGHT STAFF EDITOR Staci Hollaway, sophomore class president and Justin McCorvey, sophomore class vice president, are hosting the first annual “Rattler Hero Awards.” The awards are an opportunity for members of Florida A&M’s sophomore class to nominate their peers for recognition of their contributions to the school. The idea for the awards came from Vincent Evans, president of FAMU’s College Democrats. “I think its fine to shine the light on some people and say they’re Mr. or Ms. Sophomore, but I need to know exactly what they did,” said Hollaway. The ceremony is student-based, and cost approximately $1,700. Hollaway said that, although there will be refreshments and a live band, it will be a semi-casual
event. Winners will be rewarded with plaques and trophies. Students were able to vote and nominate classmates through a link attached to a Facebook group page, directing students to the event’s website. The nomination categories include Mr. and Ms. Sophomore, community activist, student activist, school spirited, most inspirational, most talented, male and female athlete of the year, Coleman Library VIP, most likely to win an Oscar, future board of trustees, cool for school, best dressed, future celebrity, most time on “The Set,” best smile and class clown. There are a total of 90 students nominated. The winners will be announced Friday, 8 p.m. in the Howard Hall auditorium, located in the ROTC building. SIMONE WRIGHT FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM
File Photo The Famuan Prescription drug Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid, which produces hormones usually generated in the adrenal glands and has multiple side effects, including weight gain.
TINEISHA SULKER COLUMNIST It’s funny what stands out to people. After my second chemotherapy treatment, my oncologist prescribed me Dexamethasone. That’s a corticosteroid, which imitates a hormone usually produced by the adrenal glands. A few months into taking the drug, I started noticing some changes in my body, because the side effects include weight gain in the upper body and retaining water. One of the major effects was that my breasts went up an entire cup size. And people noticed. The most memorable comment I have received was via Facebook: A friend boldly asked if I had breast implants. My only thought was, “Where I would I get the money to pay for something so trivial?” I’ve noticed subtle changes in the way people look at me since. A lot of my male friends, and even a few of my female friends, can’t help but let their eyes noticeably glance at my chest in my V-neck sweaters or close-fitting shirts. It’s a strange feeling I’m not accustomed to, but I figure it could always be much worse. The weight gain, however, is much harder to deal with. My clothes are fitting tighter and tighter by the day. My medical bills and living expenses are first priority, so buying a brand new wardrobe is out of the question.
My energy level has been extremely low more frequently, but I’ve made a commitment to myself to start working out more. My doctors are saying that once all sessions of the chemotherapy are completed, my body should start to go back to normal; I’m sincerely hoping that’s true. It’s so difficult to watch my physical appearance change uncontrollably, to where I can barely recognize myself anymore when I look in the mirror. All the hard work I put in at the gym to get my body in shape is completely gone, and I’m back at square one. Although I appreciate my friends saying how well the weight looks on me, sometimes I can’t help but think that those are nothing but kind words so that I would not feel so depressed about the situation. Loving the people that have stuck around for this long and loving the new friends I have gained, since writing my column, more everyday makes this battle easier to deal with. Some people will bail on you, but there’s nothing I can do about that. I just fight harder to prove to those who don’t believe in me that, with or without their help, this too shall pass.
TINEISHA SULKER FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM
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Ben by Daniel Shelton
Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz
Momma by Mell Lazarus
Get Fuzzy by Darby Conley
7 Comics
Sports 8
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Wednesday, January 26, 2011
HOME STATEMENT
Baseball
Rattlers strike down Pirates in 62-58 win ROYAL SHEPHERD STAFF EDITOR
File Photo The Famuan
Baseball season is preparing to heat up. The team’s first game will be on Feb. 5th at the HBCU Invite in Greensboro, N.C. Heath Blackburn is one of the team’s biggest weapons heading into the season. The sophomore pitcher was second on the team last season in wins and strikeouts. This year’s team, coached by Brett Richardson, is hoping to improve on last season’s 10 wins and looks to improve its rankings amongst MidEasterm Athletic Conference schools.
Bowling
File Photo The Famuan
The Bowling season is under way with a host of events in the near future. Next up the team has the KU Golden Bear classic in Reading, Pa. The classic will last from the 28th30th of this month.
Women’s Track The Women of Florida A&M’s track and field program are diligently preparing for the Mid-Eastern Athleic Conference indoor championship. The meet will be the 17th-19th of February. The team will travel to Landover, Md. Women’s coach Darlene Moore constantly praises the poise and skill of her athletes. She also holds them to a standard of excellence, and expects the best from them. Led by athletes like Latoya Wright, Chandelic Jackson, Ariel Allen, and Clarricia Golden the track team has an improved chance at the championship this season. File Photo The Famuan
The Florida A&M men’s basketball team can now add a win over the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference’s (MEAC) top ranked Hampton Pirates to its season’s resume. The Rattlers pulled off the 62-58 upset Monday night, behind 21 points and 16 rebounds from sophomore forward, Amin Stevens. “This feels good. Keeping the momentum from Saturday and picking up a big upset in a game nobody expected us to win,” Stevens said. When asked about his efforts during the game, Stevens said he focused on his rebounding and that helped his productivity on offense. “I was trying to stay aggressive on the boards. I was looking for the easy points,” Stevens said. Senior forward Larry Jackson said the win gives the team momentum in preparation against MEAC rivals. “It helps a lot with our confidence moving forward,” Jackson said. “After losing the first four games {in conference}, everybody was almost giving up on the season,” Jackson said. The Rattlers received a surprising source of energy during the game. It came from junior guard,
Christopher Watson, whose contribution could not be seen on the stat sheet. Watson’s contribution came on the defensive end, as he drew the assignment of guarding the MEAC’s leading scorer, Darrion Pellum. “Chris is always a big contributor. In practice he is always one of the hardest workers and when he finally got his chance, he came up big,” Jackson said reffering to Watson’s job on Pellum. “He is leading the MEAC in scoring right now, so for Chris to come in the game and slow him down was big for us,” Stevens added. Head coach Eugene Harris said the team has yet to reach its full potential. Injuries have limited the Rattlers thus far, but with health the team can only get better. “When we can get our entire team back together, we’re going to be a tough ball club,” Harris said. Playing with a limited team, Harris said, has built a toughness that can’t be coached. His team has adopted a “never give up” attitude. “They’ve never given up on any game. They battle to the end. We got down in this game, but they battled for loose balls and rebounds until we pulled it out,” Harris said. While defense was the backbone of the victory,
Keenan Doanes The Famuan Amin Stevens had 21 points and 16 rebounds Monday.
offense came through a consistent approach by the coaching staff. “We called a play and said we are going to run it until they stop it. They never stopped it, so we kept running it. Most times we either got a wide open three or went to the foul line,” Harris said.
The team hopes to carry the momentum into its next game against North Carolina Central in Durham, N.C. on Saturday at 4 pm. The next home game will be on Feb. 5 against Morgan State Bears. ROYAL SHEPHERD FAMUANSPORTS@GMAIL.COM
Second half lacks intensity TOMMY HAWKINS STAFF WRITER A dismal second-half performance spelled doom for the Lady Rattlers Monday night against Hampton. After trailing by one at halftime, the team shot 14.8 ercent on 4-for-27 from the field in the second half and lost its fourth straight against the Lady Pirates, 59-47. Hampton came into the game led by four players averaging 10 or more points per game and in first place in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The Lady Rattlers started the game with high defensive intensity and hustle in the first half that held Hampton to two points in the first five minutes. “Earlier, we had intensity on defense,” said junior guard Tameka McKelton. “We were forcing them to do what we want them to do. They did what they wanted to do in the second half.” The second half was brutal for the Lady Rattlers. Hampton found an offensive groove and at the same time disrupted any offensive rhythm the Lady Rattlers
mentality makes them a better defensive team than Howard,” guard Jasmin Grice said. The stagnant offense left many Rattlers with a tough shot selections. McKelton connected on four of her nine attempts from the field for 11 points. Nine shot attempts and two free throws are abnormal for the MEAC’s leading scorer. “I really like to get my shots in transition, and try to get to the free throw line for easy points,” McKelton said. Hampton was the first team in the conference to give the Lady Rattlers a double-digit Keenan Doanes The Famuan loss. Grice said a defensive pickup is necessary for the Tameka McKelton scored 11 points in the 12-point loss to Hampton Monday night. team to put this performance behind it. “Rebounding and intensity,” other open shots,” Bennett tried to create. Grice said. “If we don’t play “In the second half we said. This performance was a defense we are not going to relaxed and they got into a comfort zone,” McKelton said. far cry from the triumphant win games.” The Lady Rattlers will move “They started scoring some return the Lady Rattlers had baskets and hitting some at home against Howard forwalook toward their next Saturday night. The women game in Durham, N.C., against threes.” Forward Antonia Bennett were held to 47 total points North Carolina Central (2-17). said offensive frustrations led against Hampton. The team to a deviation from the normal racked up 44 points in the TOMMY HAWKINS second half alone against offense the team likes to run. FAMUANSPORTS@GMAIL.COM “We have to come out and Howard. “Their state of mind and set more screens to get each
Tennis team gets humbling loss in match against UNF CIERRA JACKSON CORRESPONDENT
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The Florida A&M men’s tennis team came up short in a match against the University of North Florida on Saturday. The final score was 5-2. “As a whole, the team had a lot of good efforts and execution throughout the match,” head coach Carl Goodman said. “This was a situation of being out competed in the end and finishing strong is a must.” The defending Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference tennis champions learned a valuable lesson in the season’s first match. “Hours and hours of practice, hitting the weight room and giving it our all is how we prepared for this weekend’s match,” sophomore Chide Gabriel said.
Gabriel lost his first set 6-4, came back in the second set to win 6-2, then fell short in his final set with a score of 6-3. The 2010 MEAC Freshman of the Year, Takura Happy set off the match, winning his first set 6-4 but came up short in the last sets with scores of 6-4, 6-4. Senior Michael Moore, from New York, had no trouble sweeping his sets 6-4, 6-4. Temuera Asafu-Adjaye almost fell short. The sophomore lost his first set with a score of 6-3, but came back strong winning his last 2 sets with a score of 6-3, 6-2. “Individually we played well against a strong competitor,” Gabriel said. “I’m looking forward to improving individually and as a team in future matches throughout this year’s season.” The Rattlers fought hard but failed
to successfully compete in the doubles losing all three doubles with scores of 8-6, 8-0, and 8-4. Levan Clark, a junior from Orlando, struggled against North Florida, finishing with scores of 6-4, 6-2. “Working on our communication in our doubles is a must in the future,” Coach Goodman said. “Executing on some of the bigger points in key moments is something we will continue to put emphasis on.” The team will travel to Tampa, Fl. on Jan. 29th to play the University of South Florida before heading to Orlando, Fl. on the 30th to take on Florida Gulf Coast. CIERRA JACKSON FAMUANSPORTS@GMAIL.COM