The FAMUAN: 03-16-2011

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, March 16, 2011

VOL. 112 ISSUE 22

Sampson, Young to reopen KEITH BLUE STAFF WRITER Renovations to Sampson and Young Halls are set to be completed by July and will be opened to male students in August.

“When I first arrived at FAMU, there was not enough housing for students. I think it is good to add additional housing on campus for students,” said Brian Taylor, 21, a fourth-year economics student from Tallahassee.

Sampson was built in 1938 and Young Hall was built in 1929.

Both facilities were closed in 2004 due to expired building codes and safety violations.

Sampson also will be restored to National Historic District standards and will remain a landmark on the campus.

“I am glad they are finally reopening Sampson and Young because the closed dorms were depreciating the overall value of SAMPSON 4

MARCUS JOSEPH STAFF WRITER

Keenan Doanes The Famuan Sampson and Young dormatories, which have a total of 468 units, will open for students Aug. 5. THe renovations dorms will include computer labs, activity rooms, surveillance cameras and elevators.

Living off campus has a higher price KARI KNOWLES STAFF WRITER Apartment hunting season has begun for many college students in the Tallahassee area.

For upperclassmen, this is an experience filled with headaches, tough decisionmaking and a veritable mountain of paperwork. Many first-year students, however, are embarking upon a new adventure.

One of the first things students consider when scoping out their abode for the upcoming 20112012 school year is location.

Some factors students may consider when searching for an apartment are how close the complex is from campus, location of other friends and transportation.

“I choose to stay on campus because it’s convenient for my lifestyle,” said Vionni Brown, 20, a third year allied health science student.

Brown said that on-campus

housing relieves the stress of paying rent every month, grants a worry-free environment of monitoring utilities and allows students to reach classes with ease.

March marks the start of oncampus housing registration for returning students at Florida A&M on a first come, first serve basis. While some students woke up at the crack of dawn to ensure they got first grabs for on-campus housing, other students who currently live on campus are eager to move as far away as possible.

By living on campus, students said they are subject to weekly room inspections, community bathrooms and curfew restrictions for guests.

The regulations and procedures that come along with living on campus grow to be such a hassle for students that they begin looking for off-campus housing as early as the fall semester.

“I love my roommate but I’m

ECONOMY 4

NEWS BRIEFS LOCAL

SOURCE: CITY OF TALLAHASSEE

TODAY’S ONLINE CONTENT:

Keilan Scott The Famuan An off-campus housing fair will be held on The Set from 9 HOUSING 3 a.m to 2 p.m. today.

KEITH BLUE STAFF WRITER

Special to The Famuan Virgil Miller

As the recession continues, the Tallahassee economy could get its second boost of the year, following the one it received during the Gubernatorial Inauguration.

With the 2011 Florida Legislative session underway, economists and tourism experts are indicating that the local communities could receive a large financial boost from the politicians and lobbyists in town.

“This year’s session is expected to bring an economic impact of $2 million per week to community restaurants and many local support services that will be utilized,” said Jordan Jacobs, director of marketing and communications for the

Citizens are invited to a town hall meeting tonight sponsored by the Tallahassee-Leon County Planning Department to provide input on the development of an action plan for the Monroe-Adams Corridor. The town hall event takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. in the community room at the City of Tallahassee’s Parks, Recreation & Neighborhood Affairs administrative complex at 912 Myers Park Dr.

Alumni lead staff for two congressional Democrats

Special to The Famuan Tasha Cole

Session boosts economy

Florida A&M graduates Virgil Miller and Tasha Cole are both serving as the chiefs-of-staff for two in lawmakers in Congress.

“I think it is good that the graduates have been appointed.

Anytime somebody is recognized on a national level it is good for the university,” said Anthony Reel, 19, a sophomore economics student from Atlanta.

Miller, a Palm Beach native,

will lead the staff for Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-New Orleans).

“After my interview, I knew that I wanted to work for him [Richmond],” Miller said. “Mr. Richmond is passionate about restoring his hometown, and brings an amazing amount of energy and creativity to Congress,” Miller told the Washington Post.

While at FAMU, Miller was elected as student body president of the Student

Lifestyles

Sports

Members of the sports staff take a look at the season that was for the men’s and women’s basketball teams.

Sports | 10

CHIEF 3

In-house critic Matthew Richardson reviews Hip-hop artist Lupe Fiasco’s newest album “Lasers.”

Lifestyles | 7

“Tallahassee’s most dangerous apartments,” by Jorge Rodriguez-Jiminez “Local bookstores stay afloat,” by Clarece Polke

WEATHER Today

77 45 Thursday

81 47 Friday

81 49

2 Calendar

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famuancalendar@gmail.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Events and Announcements Announcements

Tucker Hall 124. Our deadline is Friday. For more information, contact Prof. Melanie Rawls Abrams at Melanie.Abrams@famu.edu.

The Brothers of The National Society of Pershing Rifles Company C-16, will be hosting the 1st annual Blue Tie Ball. The Blue Tie Ball proceeds will be dontated the Wounded Warriors Project Inc. The Blue Tie Ball will be located at Howard Hall on Friday at 9 p.m. Cosmo attire requried. For further details contact Keontra Campbell at 850-363-7617.

Do you need summer employment? And, do you enjoy working with high school students? Working for FAMU’s Upward Bound Summer Program could be a great opportunity for you. Join us for an information session on Thursday in the TRIO Academic Support Center Lab at 4 p.m. to learn more about the following open positions: Resident Assistants, teachers and nighttime personnel. For questions, please contact Mr. Al English at 850-412-7110.

Join FAMU’s English Department in recognizing creativity and talent! All FAMU students are invited to submit their original poems, short stories and essays to the Annual Spring Writing Contest. Cash prizes will be awarded to first, second, and third place winners in each category. Official guidelines can be picked up in The Writing Resource Center

To place an announcement in the Calendar, e-mail your submission to famuancalendar@gmail.com at least two days prior to the desired publishing issue. All

submissions must include the student organization along with information in paragraph format to include “who, what, when and where.” A contact number will be published with the announcement, indicate so in your e-mailed submission and provide an alternate method for readers to obtain more information. If you do not follow the paragraph format then your submission will not be able to be published.

Classifieds 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

We Deliver!

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Carry-Out Additional Toppings Available

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

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Plus tax & delivery. At participating locations.

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Corrections For corrections please email Famuancalendar@gmail.com.

TheFamuan Wednesday, March 16, 2011

CHIEF Government Association and served on the Board of Trustees.

Miller graduated with his Bachelor of Arts in biology in 2003 and his Master of Public Health in 2005. While working on his masters degree, Miller was given the opportunity to intern with then-state-Rep. Curtis Richardson of Tallahassee.

In 2006, Miller left for Washington D.C. to work for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation in the office of Rep. Edolphus Towns (D-N.Y.). While working under Towns, Miller aided in developing Towns’ health policy portfolio and informed Towns on health care issues. According to FAMU’s Office of Communication, in 2007 Miller joined the House Energy and Commerce Committee and in 2009 served as a health-policy advisor to Rep. John D. Dingell (D-Mich.).

Cole, who has worked in Washington D.C. since 2002, was appointed as chief of staff for Rep. Frederica Wilson (D-Miami).

“I’ve been in D.C. for eight years,” Cole HOUSING ready to have my own bedroom and my own bathroom,” said Lea Coleman, 18, a first year pharmacy student.

A problem FAMU Housing Office often faces is an insufficient amount of space available for the numerous applications they receive each year.

This ongoing issue leaves many firsttime students turning to off-campus housing alternatives that are in close proximity to the school or at least near a bus stop.

“I like having my own bathroom, but I feel like I miss out on a lot of the campus interaction,” said Stacy Saint-Rose, 18, a first-year political science student.

According to information from the FAMU website and office of Student Housing Solutions, the average amount a student pays for on-campus housing

TheFamuanOnline.com famuannews@gmail.com

said. “There’s a hectic pace and you are in the middle of everything that is going on in the country. “It can be very humbling when you can be a part of decisions on health care and tax reform.”

Cole, an Alabama native, graduated from FAMU in 1993 with a Bachelor of Arts in broadcast journalism.

Before starting her political career as an outreach director for the Florida Democratic Party, Cole worked for several years as a documentary producer and television reporter for a statewide public affairs program and as a media relations consultant for nonprofit organizations and associations according to the press release.

Cole served as senior advisor to former U.S. Rep. Kendrick Meek, where she has worked since he was first elected to Congress and in 2003.

“The graduates worked hard in college and have made the right connections.

This shows progress for the university,” said Orze Killgo, 18, a first-year student from Washington, D.C.

KEITH BLUE FAMUANNEWS@GMAIL.COM is between $2,000-2,500 in a regular school year. With off-campus housing, the average amount in one year is from $3,500-$6,000.

In Tallahassee, students have the option of turning to off-campus leasing housing offices such as Student Housing Solutions. On average, their leasing office receives 4,000 applications per year for housing.

“All of the Southside properties are very fast leasing communities. The Pointe, University Courtyard and The Cottages of Magnolia each offer a different experience and price point,” said Student Housing Solutions Director of Marketing and Sales, Leon Grinnell.

“However, all three are typically full by June.”

KARI KNOWLES FAMUANNEWS@GMAIL.COM

School News 3

Metro News 4 ECONOMY Greater Tallahassee Chamber Of Commerce.

The Tallahassee economy has been hurt by the recession through decreases in property values, large numbers of layoffs and heavy financial cuts. This has Florida’s county officials and political officials working to stabilize their local economy.

“It’s just a great needed bump in our economy,” Jacobs said. “We’re just really excited to have more individuals in our business community eating in our restaurants, sleeping in our hotels rooms and also shopping in our stores.”

Leon County, one of the five counties with the lowest unemployment rates in the state, has recently experienced a boost of $2 - $3 million in direct spending from the inaugural events that took place in January, according to the 2011 Florida Inaugural Committee.

Floridians traveled to the capital and stayed in local hotels and ate at local restaurants, where waiters and waitresses, valet drivers and all other local hospitality workers felt a direct financial impact. Many others in Tallahassee also experienced direct financial impacts because of the inaugural events.

Now that the session has started in Tallahassee, local businesses owners and the city may notice another financial increase.

“When you bring in all the staff members, all the legislators and some times their families members that is a great impact on Tallahassee income,” said Michelle Bono, assistant to the city manager. “All of those people are either staying in apartments, houses or hotels.

They are shopping in our stores and using or local services.”

According to Florida tourism officials, Tallahassee boasts approximately 6,000 hotel rooms, hundreds of restaurants and two universities with athletic programs that bring in visitors.

“The average Florida State University home football game brings in approximately $5 million to the community, and the average Florida A&M University home football game brings in $1 million,” said Jacobs.

A few restaurant managers have not quite noticed a direct impact on their businesses.

“As far as legislators, we do see many of them come in, but since it’s just the beginning of the session, all of them have not come out yet,” said Nicolas Duosa, a local restaurant manager at Masa. “In general they usually come in and have business meetings, dinners and lunches.”

Other local restaurant managers say they are doing really well despite the legislative session but are usually busier, during lunch and dinner hours, when the Legislative Session is going on.“It’s just hard to tell right now,” said Duosa.

In previous years, the legislative session has had an economic impact on Tallahassee and city officials are looking forward to another successful year.

“It definitely has a very positive impact on our community and brings in a much-needed impact,” said Katie Kole, marketing communications director for Visit Tallahassee. “With a whole new crew over at the capital, it’s probably going to bring a larger economical impact this year, then years past. We have seen more traffic coming in, but it’s always pretty busy.”

“The difference this year is it’s during tough economical times,” said Bono.

“It may be more important this year, as it was last year, because we are in that tough economic time zone. It’s a nice boost to the economy.”

MARCUS JOSEPH FAMUAN.METRO@GMAIL.COM

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Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Bookstores stay afloat CLARECE POLKE LIFESTYLES EDITOR

The cold air from inside the Paperback Rack bends and twists the tattered paper sign taped above the large plastic bin outside without even the slightest opening of the front door.

A closer look reveals the words “Free books: please take” written neatly in black ink. What’s left in the bin consists of a travel guide, a cookbook and a few other books lightly scattered across the bottom.

This is just a few of the specials owner Lisa Hart offers to her customers to help clear out the old and make room for new titles.

“Our stock is eclectic.

We have almost any and everything here except for romances,” Hart said. “It’s a bookstore for people who like to think about what they read. We have an excellent religion section, philosophy, African-American, NativeAmerican, fantasy, science fiction, poetry…we have a little bit of everything here.”

The recession, however, has forced Hart to use creative methods to attract customers to the little storefront shop off North Monroe. The several used book stores that operate within the area refer customers to one another and try to work together, she said, but she still stopped buying new books for the shelves and increased the number of clearance sales to save money without cutting the prices of books.

It’s always been her dream to work in a bookstore.

For almost 20 years, she worked under the Paperback Rack’s former owner as an employee, grooming her for the day when he decided to retire. When he offered her ownership of the store

Keenan Doanes The Famuan The Goodwill Bookstore is open to donations and sales, located at 1005 N Monroe St.

in 2006, Hart dreamed of a long career born of humble beginnings.

The difficulties she faces now, however, are completely different from the ones the store faced two decades ago.

Hart said her competition goes beyond local vendors like Goodwill’s bookstores and Borders off Apalachee Parkway. Her competition, she said, is in the next shopping center over, in the aisles of Best Buy. The Kindle, a portable electronic book reader developed by Amazon.com, uses wireless connectivity enable users to download, browse and read books, newspapers, magazines, blogs and other digital media.

“I don’t know now. With the competition with Goodwill and the Kindle, you never know,” Hart said. “The owner before me owned it for over

20 years; I would love to be funds to continue everyday able to own it just as long…I operations, including paying don’t even have a plan as to vendors, publishers and what else I want to do but suppliers.

“Right now, we’re focused own this bookstore.”

Her bookstore’s distant on closing those 200 stores future isn’t the only one in and making the other stores, which we call our ‘go-forward question.

Borders, on the corner of stores,’ as profitable as Apalachee Parkway, along possible, and we have no plans with over 200 Borders to open any other stores,” branches across the country, said Mary Davis, official will be closed by the end spokesperson for Borders. of April, according to a “It’s an underperforming press release from Borders store. When we look at a management.

Borders store to evaluate whether it’s officially filed for Chapter 11 meeting our performance criteria, we look at a number bankruptcy on Feb. 16.

The U.S. Bankruptcy of factors.”

Court for the Southern District of New York granted For the full story Borders $505 million in and pictures visit Debtor-in-Possession thefamuanonline.com (DIP) financing led by GE Capital, Restructuring Finance. The press release CLARECE POLKE further indicated that Borders would use the FAMUAN.METRO@GMAIL.COM

Students seek aid in housing hunt MARVYN JOSEPH STAFF WRITER

Students looking for a place to live next school year could use an extra eye in their search.

That is why local apartment and rental property locators assist students in their hunt for housing.

At Student Housing Solutions, 2020 W. Pensacola St. Suite 27, students can get their housing questions and concerns answered.

“Summer is almost here and apartment complexes are summing up deals for residents and our office is ready to help,” said Leslie Ryan, an employee at Student Housing Solution.

“Our service here is free, so there’s no need to worry about paying a fee.”

Students tend to get confused about choosing

a happy home that fits their needs and wants that sometimes can lead to early termination of the lease.

Ryan said students should take precaution measures and list what they would want feature with the apartment.

“When students do not have a clue about apartment searching, we narrow the list of apartments based on what they’re looking for,” said Ryan.

She said students who come in with questions tend to get the best results.

“Students ask great questions such as the location, whether or not the apartment is furnished or unfurnished, and questions about the utility fees,” said Ryan.

She said FAMU students prefer The Pointe at Adams Place, 3000 S. Adams St., which is walking distance

worry about location others from the campus.

“The Pointe is a great look for a low rent that location for students. They doesn’t include extra utility have a wonderful movie costs.

“Rent bothers me a little theater, computer lab, nice fitness gym, huge clubhouse bit. I look for something and a beautiful pool to go cheap but good quality,” with the parties they have said Dina Philippe, 20, a over the summer,” said Ryan. second-year biology student Commuter students say from Miami. She talks about that location is the major her experience with The decision when it comes to Commons, 1325 W. Tharpe St. choosing an apartment.

“I kind of like it, but I also “Location is my first choice when it comes to don’t like it. I like it because searching for an apartment,” it’s quiet and peaceful; I don’t said LaQuisha Glenn, 19, have a problem with noise, a second-year psychology bad neighbors, and it’s clean student from Miami. She also besides other apartments.” with a reasonable price. likes to feel secure. “Safety is important when it comes to me, because not everywhere For the full in Tallahassee has a suburb story, visit on every block so you have thefamuanonline.com to ask questions about where the apartment you’re MARVYN JOSEPH interested in is located.”

While some students FAMUAN.METRO@GMAIL.COM

SAMPSON FAMU,” said Diondrea Walters, 19, a second year psychology student from Miramar.

Director of Facility Planning Samuel Houston said that Premier Construction & Development is the general contractor that is renovating the two dorms.

This project will cost an estimated $13 million and the price includes construction equipment, EIT improvements and furniture for both halls.

“Premier Construction & Development will be demolishing the interior of the builds and rebuilding dorm rooms, computer labs, and lounge areas,” Houston said. “This has been a joint effort between Facility Planning and student housing.”

At this time, the projected rental rates for both facilities are $3,150 for a single and $2,800 for a double.

Director of Housing Oscar L. Crumity

Keenan Doanes The Famuan Set for an August 5 move-in date, renovations are estimated at $13 million.

said that based on an anticipated 95 percent occupancy, FAMU predicts an annual revenue of approximately $1,214,733.

“The reopening of the dorms means

more students on campus and that equals more money for the university, and the more opportunities for students,” said Javon Strickland, 21, a fourth year criminal justice student from Detroit.

The facilities will provide the following amenities to residents: · Wireless data, voice and cable vision connectivity ·Electronic card access for all residents’ room, facilities’ entry and common area doors · Electronic sign board in both facilities and/or on the facilities’ exterior · Computer labs with seven computers in Sampson Hall and four computers in Young Hall · Elevators for residents’ use · Surveillance cameras in the hallways, elevators, laundry rooms, computer labs, lobbies, entrance doors, etc. ·Activity rooms for games, socialization, meetings, TV viewing, etc. · Each floor will have a small room for small group meetings with a television ·Laundry rooms equipped with televisions, chairs, and folding tables.

KEITH BLUE FAMUANNEWS@GMAIL.COM

Wednesday, March 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

Top 7 pet peeves about roommates OPINIONS STAFF THE FAMUAN

The following list applies to both dorm and apartment living.

1.

Taking my things: Just because we are roommates, we may wear the same size, or eat the same foods, does not mean you just up and take my stuff. If you want to keep your fingers I suggest you don’t touch my stuff.

2.

Messy: We are adults. Please clean up after yourself. I do not want to see smelly gym clothes or your funky underwear laying on the floor, doorknob or wherever. That’s gross.

3.

Overly clean…to the point where we think you might be borderline OCD: If you spray that can of Lysol one more time…

4.

Extremely loud: I want to sleep, study, watch TV in peace. I do not want to hear your phone/Skype/Oovoo conversation or music.

So quiet down, or shut it off.

5.

Unwanted guests: We share living quarters. I would like to walk in our apartment or dorm and it not be filled with people I have never seen or do not know.

Because if something of mine goes missing (see No. 1) the end result will not be pretty.

6.

Random items go missing or are broken: I don’t want to come home to find my favorite pen broken or something missing due to you using it without my permission. Nor do I want you to pretend like you don’t know what I’m talking about.

7.

Petty arguements: Dude, just because you had a bad day don’t take it out on me and try to start an arguement. So do me a favor, go to your room or your side of the room and “woosah.” In other words calm down.

Opinions 5

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Looking for room and board should be a priority Spring Break has ended and it is time for Rattlers to get back into the swing of things.

While a few of us are looking forward to graduation, the rest of us are looking forward to summer vacation.

However, one of the things that most of us need to start doing is looking for housing for either summer sessions or the upcoming 2011 fall semester.

Most of FAMU’s students live on campus or in apartments.

While some of these

apartments are relatively close to campus, some chould be considered a long and arduous journey away.

It is to be expected that a lot of students, especially those without transportation, would prefer to live on campus.

But for many students that simply is not an option.

The fact is, room and board are limited on our campus, despite how the administration may make it seem otherwise sometimes.

So the next best thing is obtaining an apartment.

With roommates.

Simply because rent is, at its cheapest, $400 a month. And this is not including food and other amenities.

In other words, say hello to the “ramen noodle and peanut butter and jelly” diet.

But this is nothing new when going to college in another city or state.

However, there are a few of us who would be considered the outlier of the housing “issue” group: the few of us Rattlers who are from Tallahassee and choose to live

at home.

Just ask a classmate, we are sure they can give you their opinionson their experience.

So, while you are going through the paper and reading stories about living on and off campus, think about your own experience and decipher exactly what you want to do when it comes down to room and board for the near future.

And make a few vacation plans while you are at it too.

Khristanda Cooper for the Editorial Board.

Dorm life puts a damper on college experience AARON JOHNSON DEPUTY OPINIONS EDITOR This year, as an incoming freshman, my on-campus dorm living did not meet the standards that I had hoped for.

All I expected was a clean and comfortable room with decent space where I can interact with female counterparts.

Unfortunately, by living in Paddyfote housing, I received the exact opposite.

I had originally signed up to stay in Gibbs Hall last fall, but there were no rooms available due to the largest freshman enrollment that FAMU had ever seen.

So as a result, I had to settle for less in terms of price and quality.

Paddyfote housing costs $1,814, which is cheaper than the $2,162 for Gibbs.

Although I saved some

money, I was stuck in the smallest dorm on campus.

Beforehand I was unaware of the size of the rooms or what the dorm looked like.

By reading the exaggerated online description on FAMU’S website I was convinced that it was not as bad as what everyone said.

On move-in day, sadly enough, all the buzz about Paddyfote being the worst dorm on campus was true.

When I first walked in my room with hands full of luggage, I was greeted by my roommate and his family sitting on the bed which was less than two feet from the door.

I was immediately shocked at how small the room was.

It was so small that I could literally high five my roommate while lying on the bed.

Paddyfote originally housed students with excellent grades.

These Dean’s List student’s were only housed one to a room.

It seemed like I needed to go back in time.

Along with the lack of space, the room was very warm.

In fact, at one point many rooms within the complex had no air conditioning during those steamy hot summer months.

Residents poured into the housing office to complain about an avoidable problem.

Thankfully my room was on the first floor and not the top where it was the hottest. The only thing we had to cope with the heat was a portable fan and a small rectangular shape that resembled a window you would see on jail...

Before moving to Tallahassee, I didn’t even realize how bad bug infestations could get.

This past fall I saw bugs and insects of all sorts and more than likely discovered new ones.

Paddyfote was full of these critters.

Walking in the hallways sometimes I could see

cockroaches crawling between cracks trying to sneak into rooms in search of food.

Beatles, spiders, moths, wasps, ants and even lizards have all been spotted.

It was necessary to have a can of bug spray on standby.

But what makes dorm life even harder at Paddyfote: the no coed rule.

It was bad enough that I was trapped in a hot box, but to also to not have the option of coed visitation was horrible.

I am well aware of FAMU’s deep tradition, but it is time for a change.

We are young adults who are mature enough to have room visitations with members of the opposite sex.

Don’t get me wrong, college was an amazing experience.

However, I just wish my housing experience was 10 times better.

AARON JOHNSON FAMUANOPINIONS@GMAIL.COM

Apartment living ought to be comfortable for everyone MATTHEW RICHARDSON SCHOOL NEWS EDITOR S e e i n g a moving truck parked outside of my apartment is parallel to a dark cloud hovering above my head waiting to rain on my parade.

Staying at Seminole Grand, a complex that specializes in separate lease apartments, that dark cloud finally burst a couple weeks ago when my new roommate brought in his belongings.

So far, since moving to Tallahassee, I have had five roommates.

As a freshman I started out living in a 4/4. Two left and one got evicted. That roommate situation worked out well because we were all friends. Of course, we had our share of heated disagreements

about food, personal space and cleanliness, but you live and you learn.

After they left, I had a fourbedroom apartment all to myself.

Life was good and I began to get used to the idea of not having to share a refrigerator and always having a clean living area.

Loud noises and unexpected visits moved out and peace had moved in, until that inevitable phone call.

I was being forced to relocate to a remodeled 2/2 and to my surprise, I was still without a roommate, but I spoke too soon.

My fourth roomie was a female and, while the employees at the complex are supposed to follow a basic preference card to describe your ideal roommate, but she slipped through the cracks because she had a unisex name.

When I had a male roommate, I had no problem with walking around with my shirt off. I’m a guy.

Guys do that, but I felt a bit uncomfortable doing so when there was a female present.

Why should I feel slightly uncomfortable when in my own home?

Because when sharing an apartment, it’s not just yours but the other person’s as well.

My female roommate was easily the best so far.

She was peaceful, with the exception of her loud music and love of Plies. But she put up with my sometimes smoky cooking and coming home late from work.

But like some good things, it came to an end when she moved out.

Peace made itself at home again and I welcomed it. But just as I was readjusting to my apartment and my solitude my male roommate moved in

and kicked peace out.

On the day I was to have a video game party with a few staff members from the Famuan, the first sign of my roommate’s existence was a single Marie Callender’s dinner in the freezer.

All of the bleeps and booms from video games faded from my mind. I would hate for my new roommate’s welcome to be a filled with loud techno music and playful threats being screamed at each other when losing a game.

Just as I would want someone to be considerate of me, I would return the favor.

All is well now, but earlier this week, he asked if it were cool that he had a puppy.

I said sure, but in the back of my mind, I knew that peace had been placed in the dog house.

MATTHEW RICHARDSON FAMUANOPINIONS@GMAIL.COM

F U

THE

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

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

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

. d e d e e n r e it r w s n Opinio

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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.

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Do you know the difference between room and board?

A) Of course. B) There’s a difference? C) No.

Lifestyles 6

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R.A. turned ‘renaissance man’ STEPHANIE BURTON CORRESPONDENT

Joshua Smith-Benson freestyle raps, performs spoken word, is teaching himself photography and embarking on the “365 Project,” which involves chronicling each day of his life with a photo for a year, after discovering a natural knack for photography.

But, there is one thing in particular that he does so well people don’t even know that he’s doing it: mentoring.

“You be mentoring folks, cuz?” is the number one question that friends ask Joshua Smith-Benson after they hear about his growing popularity. This time it’s coming out of the mouth of his fellow coworker as they file papers side-by-side in their small office, room 323 of Gibbs Hall.

Benson, a 22-year-old resident assistant of three years, has earned a stellar reputation as the “mentor of Gibbs Hall,” although nobody can quite explain why. Not even Benson.

“I don’t understand why people are calling me a mentor,” said Benson. “I just love talking to people.”

The pharmacy student became an RA in his second year at FAMU, and originally took the job for financial reasons. RAs receive a $1,000 stipend per semester and free housing when living with a roommate, bonuses Benson said he couldn’t ignore.

He soon learned, however, that being an RA also allowed him the chance to exercise his love for communication and helping others.

“I like talking with the guys because they have so much potential and some of them just don’t know how to cope with being away from home or maneuvering through FAMU,” he said. “I can identify

with them because I had to come here and learn everything on my own.”

Benson says that he has given advice to his residents on everything from girls to majors. He prides himself on listening to others and watching his residents go on to do great things within the university.

“Seeing incoming students progress through school and become senate president or something like that, is amazing,” he says. “Fred Johnson (Mr. FAMU elect) was one of my residents and it’s good to see everyone grow. I remember when they came in all scared and now they are furthering their potential.”

Benson was named Programmer of the Year in 2008 by the FAMU Office of Housing and Residence Life for his successful event, “Open Mic Night at Gibbs Hall.” The event was so popular that it now occurs every Wednesday night at 8 p.m.

“People from FSU and TCC come as well. One time we had 112 people show up,” he said. “You might see me up on stage because I freestyle and write rhymes.”

Devante Jefferson, 19, a first-year business administration, met Benson while freestyling at an “Open Mic Night.”

“He has given me musical advice,” said Jefferson. “Josh is a rapper, and since I rap we interact musically. I let him listen to my beats to see if they sound dumb and crappy.”

Adam McNeal, 18, is also proof of Benson’s mentoring power. McNeal is not even a resident of Gibbs Hall, but he still has established a friendship with the RA. “I sleep in Phase III, but I ‘live’ in Gibbs Hall,” McNeal joked. “My brother is an RA in Gibbs, so that’s why I’m always here. I just started chillin with the guys

LaGretta Johnson The Famuan Smith-Benson is known throughout Gibbs Hall as a role model and a mentor.

and now Benson is like a big brother.”

The mentoring RA even saved McNeal’s spring break plans, a big deal especially to a college freshman.

“I was supposed to go to Panama City with a friend of mine and he ended up backing out,” said McNeal.

“I was scrambling until I hit up Josh on Facebook and asked him if they had anymore room and he said that they did.”

So, what’s next for the mentor, friend, and pseudo big brother?

“I’m teaching myself to play the guitar,” said Benson. His sparkled black guitar is named Roxanne.

“People call me a renaissance man,” he said.

STEPHANIE BURTON FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM

Ne-Yo works acting White flag flies, then muscle in new film burns for ‘Battle: LA’ MATTHEW RICHARDSON SCHOOL NEWS EDITOR

MATTHEW RICHARDSON SCHOOL NEWS EDITOR For Grammy awardwinning singer and songwriter Shaffer Chimere Smith Jr., better known as Ne-Yo, 2010 was a big year: His fourth album “Libra Scale” was released and he saw the birth of his daughter. 2011 looks to be no different.

In his own words, Smith said he believes in “expansion and growth and trying new things,” which is one reason why many will see him on the big screen again in the movie “Battle: LA.” “If you try something out and find out that you’re pretty good at it, keep going. Acting is just another form of selfexpression,” said Smith.

While Smith said that he is still a novice in the acting business, “Battle: LA” isn’t his first acting credit. Smith had a supporting role in the movie “Stomp the Yard” and also had a recent appearance as a smooth hit man in the television series “CSI: NY.” Smith’s acting resume is short with no leading roles, but “Battle: LA” shows him in a different light. He said he pushed his acting ability to a different level but felt confident about his performance.

“Battle: LA” is a sciencefiction movie about alien invasion and humanity’s fight against it and features Smith as a U.S. Marine named Kevin Harris.

“It was a little difficult with the whole CGI thing,” said Smith. “I’m still very much a novice actor, so for me to act like I’m terrified of something that’s not even there, it was a little difficult for me. With (the help of) other seasoned actors, I pulled it off.”

“Battle: LA” also stars Aaron Eckhart, Michelle Rodriguez and Ramon Rodriguez, all of whom

“This can’t be happening,” I said to myself as I winced at what was being shown on the big screen.

“This is awful,” my girlfriend said. “Can we

AP Photo/David Goldman

portray U.S. Marines.

To prepare for the role, Smith underwent real boot camp to experience the mentality and rigor necessary to portray one.

“The people who put that movie together had all the preparation ready for us,” Smith said. “We trained with actual Marines for a good three weeks. They basically trained us like we were real life Marines and as if we were really at boot camps trying to become Marines.”

Smith said the vigorous training, the early mornings, and the three to six mile runs were worth it.

“It was worth it because, at the end of the day, when you see the film, we look like actual Marines and that was their goal: to make sure that when the movie came out, a seasoned Marine could go see this and go ‘ok, they know what they’re doing,’” Smith said.

Smith said his acting doesn’t slow down his love for music.

“I have not abandoned music nor do I plan to at all,” Smith said. “Music runs through my veins.

Acting though is fun and I have a respect for it. It’s just an interesting hobby for me right now.”

Smith said while he does not yet know what the direction will be for his fifth album, it will be return to his regular form of music.

“This album will be a little less complicated. There’s no complicated story to follow. I’m going to make music to make people feel stuff,” Smith said. “I’m going to write songs to make you remember old boyfriends, or make you love the one that you’re with even more.”

“Libra Scale” was centered on a story Smith wrote. He said he was proud of the many accomplishments he made by directing his music videos and changing his lyrical style.

Smith’s acting career isn’t stopping with “Battle: LA,” with the movie “Red Tails” set to hit the big screen later this year.

MATTHEW RICHARDSON FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM

just leave?”

“I wish, but I can’t. I have to write a review about this garbage, so I have to see how it pans out,” I said while massaging the bridge of my nose to alleviate myself of the slight headache “Battle: Los Angeles” was giving me.

Should I start this review with the boring, cliché plot that I pretty much anticipated down to the disastrous melodramatic scenes? Or should I unleash a full arsenal of sarcasm against the writers and actors with their failed attempts at delivering a joke? Plot it is.

Earth is being invaded by aliens that at first seemed to be meteorites hitting the surface. The central location for this movie is obviously Los Angeles. The aliens don’t even wait around to take in the scenery of the place they want to colonize. They pull a blitzkrieg and kill anything that moves or has a radio signal.

That’s when the U.S. Marines step in and all hell breaks loose. Let me tell you, “Battle: LA’s” plot is duller than a cheap steak knife that was used numerous times in attempts to cut a brick.

The audience could clearly see where director Jonathan Liebesman was going with his plot.

He should have traded in a little action for a bit more character development. The problem with that direction is that the characters are uninteresting and I could not care less what happened to them, so he feeds the audience more brainless action loaded with CGI. But that doesn’t even help because the aliens are nothing more than scrap metal with guns. It’s just not entertaining and with technology

today, more is expected.

Take for example the 1996 film “Independence Day,” which essentially had the same plot. That movie kept viewers in suspense because of the large spacecraft that hovered over Earth’s landmarks.

We didn’t know when a giant beam was coming down to annihilate everything. And the aliens had tentacles, large eyes and scary faces. It was futuristic.

Aaron Eckhart plays the tough marine with a dark past, Michelle Rodriguez, like all of her movies, plays the tough chick who can hang better than the roughest guys, and Ne-Yo, well, he plays some guy who wears glasses. Now that’s what I call character development.

Yes I am trashing this movie because it sucks. The two positives I give this movie are that it shows the amount of teamwork I’m sure Marines display in real life action and how Liebesman used the camera at many times to give the movie a first person shooter effect, but play Call of Duty: Black Ops instead of watching this movie.

You might enjoy that instead.

MATTHEW RICHARDSON FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM

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Lifestyles 7

No ‘siesta’ for cafe proprietors TERRAY ROLLINS CORRESPONDENT Replace the silence of Coleman Library with the commotion of flat screen TVs, food sizzling and Latin music playing. The empanadas are frying and all the tables between the restroom and the register are filled with hungry customers ready to eat.

This is the life of student entrepreneurs and husband and wife Alexandro Delreal, 19, and Yaineli Valdes, 18. Delreal attends TCC, and Valdes is a student at FSU. While most college students plan late night rendezvous at popular clubs like 20/20, Baja’s Beach Club and Rokbar, the students plan the hours of operation and menu for their newly created, family-owned restaurant, the Latin Xpress Cafe.

The Cuban couple migrated from Miami, and has brought more business and attention to the Latin population in Tallahassee since the restaurant opened in January.

Valdes opened the Latin Xpress Café, located at 2121 West Pensacola Street, using a Trust Fund left by her late father.

“A lot of people think my mom’s the boss,” Valdes said.

“I let them believe it because I don’t want that type of pressure.”

Valdes said the restaurant was originally supposed to be a Latin Grocery, but the building’s overall structure resembled a Café.

“He modeled the inside of the building himself,” Valdes said of her husband, Delreal.

“We have everything a Latin Café in Miami would have, except a walk-in window.”

Many students dine at the Latin Xpress Café during the school week and enjoy the restaurant’s proximity to FSU and TCC. The restaurant also does delivery.

The café also sponsors the Alpha Xi Chapter of Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha, Incorporada (Sisters of Sigma Iota Alpha, Inc.), and has a monthly fundraiser every third Friday from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Sorority members invite other FSU student organizations like Greeks, the Student Senate and the Ignite Political Party, and are given a portion of the night’s profits. The social is designed to fundraise for the sorority and make a profit for the growing restaurant. Delreal said the first night they held the fundraiser, there was standing room only.

“I was really surprised to find out she went to my school,” said Shanika Robb, treasurer for

Andrew Wan The Famuan The Latin Express Cafe is owned by spouses Alexandro Delreal and Yaineli Valdes.

Sigma Iota Alpha, Inc. “I didn’t know they were that young at first. They’re pretty much the ones running everything, as far as the business interactions.”

A local Miami Latin radio station, El Zol 95.7, acknowledged the Latin Xpress Café after an FSU student

‘Lasers’ burns dim

MATTHEW RICHARDSON SCHOOL NEWS EDITOR Dear Lupe Fiasco, First off, I want to say thank you for your contributions to hip-hop. You truly are the ‘coolest’ hip-hop artist to me, right now.

I say right now because at any moment, Nas could drop a mix tape or album, and well, you know how that goes. Of course you do, as your favorite album is Nas’ second LP titled “It Was Written.” I’m not saying your music is whack, far from it.

Honestly, it a compliment to your musical style. You stand alone as an artist and that undeniably shows in your new album “Lasers.” However

on this album I have a certain gripe that doesn’t vibe well with me.

Lupe, your album “Lasers,” a backronym (jackedup acronym) for Love Always Shines Every time, Remember 2 Smile, is a lot different from your first two albums. “Food And Liquor” was positive, informative and fun. “The Cool” was gritty, still informative and still fun.

“Lasers,” like its name, beams but, like a sun behind dark clouds, only certain tracks gives your fans what they have been waiting for and what they petitioned for.

Your finished product seemed a bit lackluster. I almost asked myself if you sold out on a couple of tracks.

The album starts off strong with “Letting go,” which shows your listeners that your signature poetic style has not crumbled or faltered and then

you bless us with “Words I Never Said,” a politically charged single that pulls no punches.

Verses like “Your child’s future was the first to go with budget cuts. If you think that hurts, then wait, here comes the uppercut,” is only a taste to what comes further along in the song.

But later in the album you hit us with your first club track, “I Don’t Really Care Right Now.” Lupe, what does this song talk about? Wait, I know, just like the title of the song, you don’t really care what you’re saying as long as it sounds good. That’s not classic Lupe, that’s just a fiasco of words.

That was strike one. Strike two: In your first album, you wrote a song called “Sunshine,” where you personified your first gig as a first date. Classic. But on “Lasers” you have a song titled “Out Of My Head,” which features the oversexed artist Trey Songs. Clearly, this song talks about a girl, and that’s it.

While “Lasers” has a few holes, it’s packaged well because close to the end of the album, you hit us with “All Back Everything,” which is one of the most imaginative tracks I’ve heard since Nas’ song “Rewind.” And like your song, “The Shows Goes On,” you say L-U-P the man, cause a brand that the fans trust, so even if they ban us they’ll never slow my plans up!”

We trust you Lupe, just don’t let us down.

MATTHEW RICHARDSON FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM

who frequents the restaurant contacted her uncle, a DJ for the station, and requested a “shout out.”

Valdes said the experience has been exciting and overwhelming.

“This is what we’re all about,” Delreal said. “There’s no one in

the kitchen who doesn’t know what they’re doing. All our food is authentic. We always have people tell us it’s like coming home.”

TERRAY ROLLINS FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM

Soprano’s many accolades proves vocals are no battle TANYA GLOVER DEPUTY LIFESTYLES EDITOR Kathleen Battle will appear in Lee Hall Auditorium on March 18 at 7:30 p.m. and March 20 at 4 p.m. She will be the final performance for the 20102011 Lyceum series.

Like many other talented African American vocalists, Battle first began to sing Kathleen Battle in church. A five-time Grammy winner, Battle has performed in some of the University of Cincinnati.

Despite Battle’s repertoire, the worlds leading opera houses and major council which spans three centuries from the Baroque era to halls.

She’s been awarded seven contemporary works, some honorary doctoral degrees- students do not know who from her Alma Mater, the she is and are not looking University of Cincinnati; forward to the performance Westminster Choir College from the soprano singer.

Javonna Goodman, 20, in Princeton, New Jersey; Ohio University; Xavier a first year social work University in Cincinnati; student from Lakeland, said Amherst College; she isn’t looking forward to Seton Hall University, the performance because Wilberforce University and she “heard it was an the Manhattanville College. opera.” Her only reason for Battle was also inducted attending will be because into the “NAACP Image her professor is forcing her Award Hall of Fame” for class to go.

Other students appreciate her outstanding artistic opportunity to achievements, and in 2002 the into the “Hollywood Bowl experience something new.

“I’m really excited,” said Hall of Fame.” She is the first recipient of the “Ray Asha Rizor, 18, a secondCharles Award” bestowed year biology student from “Other upon her by Wilberforce Stockbridge, Ga. students should come to University.

This songstress also the performance to gain a became the first American greater appreciation of the to be honored with a strides African-Americans Laurence Olivier Award for are making on the areas Best Performance in a New that are often overlooked.”

Tickets are on sale at Opera Production and Her performance on Ticketmaster.com the PBS broadcast of the at the Alfred Lawson Metropolitan Opera’s 1991 Multipurpose Center & Gymnasium season opening gala won her Teaching an Emmy for Outstanding box office. For more Individual Achievement information contact the in a Classical Program on Office of Communications at 599-3413.

Television.

Battle earned both her bachelor and master TANYA GLOVER degrees from the College Conservatory of Music at FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM

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Sports 9

STRONG GAME, MIND

The Florida A&M golf team finished 17th in the Seminole Intercollegiate on Sunday and finished 8th in the Don Benbow Invitational on Tuesday.

FAMU finished Sunday with a total score of 921. Shephard Archie III led the team with a total score of 218.

The team finished Tuesday with a total score of 611. Randon Holt led FAMU with a score of 146.

Cheerleading The Florida A&M cheerleading squad won first place in the co-ed division of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference competition at the Joel Coliseum.

The victory is an improvement on last year’s third place finish in the competition.

The team persevered in the absense of co-captain Blayre Barlow, who tore her ACL.

Keenan Doanes The Famuan Elijah Jackson has been golfing since he was 11 years old. He said he instantly fell in love with the sport.

TERRON BOLLING STAFF WRITER

Baseball The baseball team dropped two of three games against the Savannah State University Tigers.

After winning the first game in extra innings 7-6. the team proceeded to lose the next two.

They still remain in the second spot of the Mid-Eastern Althletic Conference.

A strong mind and competitive drive has helped Florida A&M golfer Elijah Jackson on and off the golf course.

Jackson is a fourth-year nursing student from Streetsboro, Ohio.

Jackson’s father took him to an empty field, where he was introduced to golf at 11 years old.

“It was just me, my two brothers and him. We just started hitting golf balls and I loved it ever since,” Jackson said.

Jackson played football before he started playing golf. He played both sports until high school where he decided to dedicate himself to golf.

Jackson says competition is one of the reasons he chose to play golf.

“My cousin started playing. He got good instantly and I wanted to find a way to beat him,” Jackson said.

Jackson’s golf talent showed when he joined Streetboro High School’s golf team. He made varsity as a freshman and was a district qualifier as a sophomore. He placed second in his school’s league as a junior and first as a senior.

According to the Streetsboro City Schools website, Jackson holds the school record for lowest individual scoring average which he set in 2006.

Jackson won the Midwest Championship in 2006, which qualified him to play in the Westfield Junior PGA Championship that year.

Jackson looked at a few colleges in Ohio, but decided to attend FAMU. “FAMU was actually the only school that was fitting. It was in the south, had nice weather, and coach Green seemed like he wanted me here. It seemed like the perfect fit,” Jackson said.

At the end of his freshman year, Jackson was diagnosed with leukemia.

It was a difficult challenge for Jackson to face.

Jackson’s family provided support throughout his treatment. Tori Washington, Jackson’s mother, had faith that her son would be able to overcome his situation and make it back onto the golf course.

“We knew he would play again,” Washington said.

Jackson returned to golf quickly, but was still weak from his illness.

“I wasn’t at 100 percent body wise.

It was hard for me to get started. Now, this being my last year in golf, I’m actually starting to get back to where I was,” Jackson said. “It took about two years to get back to where I came in at.”

Despite the challenges he faced with leukemia, Jackson said it had a

positive effect on him.

“It made me work harder, harder than I did before. It was a wakeup call,” Jackson said.

He also said it showed his teammates that he wouldn’t give up no matter what he was going through. Jackson believes coming back from leukemia made him mentally tougher.

Jackson’s mental toughness has helped find a balance between school and golf. Jackson has a 3.29 GPA and was selected to the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Commissioner’s All-Academic team in 2010.

Jackson says his biggest accomplishment is keeping the people around him motivated. He had a bit of advice for FAMU students to help get them through their time on campus.

“I’m aware of where I want to be in life. This is a gateway to where I want to be,” Jackson said. “This is just one thing we all have to do to be better off in life later on.”

Jackson’s leadership can help bring success to the golf team on and off the course. Golf coach Marvin Green knows his leadership ability.

“He’s a leader in every sense of the word,” Green said.

TERRON BOLLING FAMUANSPORTS@GMAIL.COM

Blazers bounced from tourney AP WRITER ASSOCIATED PRESS Jerai Grant scored a career-best 22 points and fast-starting Clemson built a double-figure lead and never backed off in beating Alabama-Birmingham 70-52 on Tuesday night in an NCAA tournament “First Four” game at the University of Dayton Arena.

In a matchup of No. 12 seeds, part of the expanded tournament’s new look, the Tigers (22-11) went on a 21-2 run in the first half and never let the big lead slip away, as they had in several recent games.

Clemson hurried out after its first NCAA tournament victory in 14 years to catch a flight to a second-round game against fifth-seeded West Virginia (2011) on Thursday afternoon in Tampa, Fla. Milton Jennings added 11 points

and Tanner Smith and Devin Booker each had 10 for Clemson, picked to finish seventh in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Jamarr Sanders had 19 and Dexter Fields 12 for UAB, regular-season champions of Conference USA. Ahead 39-27 at the break, Clemson never let the Blazers draw closer than eight points in the second half.

UAB’s hopes wilted when, already trailing 61-42, it lost point guard Aaron Johnson.

Johnson, leading the nation in assists at 7.7 per game, was injured while trying to prevent an easy layup by Grant. After lying on the floor for several minutes, he left the court on crutches with a right leg injury. He received a round of applause from the crowd of 10,025.

Both teams were among the final four at-large teams to get into the tournament.

As if to take a slap at doubters who didn’t think they belonged in the field, the Tigers came out smoking.

Grant, who had opened the scoring, rebounded his own miss and hit the follow with 6:34 left to swell the Clemson lead to 31-11.

Meanwhile, the Blazers continually turned over the ball and when they did get off a shot, they missed the mark.

They didn’t have a field goal for almost 8½ minutes of the opening half and had more turnovers (eight) than points (seven) in the opening 10:30.

Fields hit two 3s and Johnson added one in a 16-4 run to cut the lead to 3527.

Grant scored 12 for the Tigers, while Fields had nine for UAB.

AP WRITER ASSOCIATED PRESS

Associated Press

Hampton picks up MEAC championship, March Madness bid AP WRITER ASSOCIATED PRESS

Quanneisha Perry, Jerika Jenkins and Melanie Warner scored 13 points apiece and Hampton pulled away in the second half to beat Howard 61-42 on Saturday for a second consecutive Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference championship.

The top-seeded Lady Pirates (25-6) won their 13th straight game and earned a return trip to the NCAA tournament behind a suffocating defense that limited the Lady Bison (16-18) to 28 percent shooting.

Leading only 21-16 at halftime, Hampton took control with a 9-0 run that included Keiara Avant’s

Associated Press

consecutive buckets to make it 35-21 with 12:33 left.

Saadia Doyle had 16 points and seven

rebounds and Tamoria Holmes added 12 points for sixth-seeded Howard, which upset North Carolina A&T and Morgan State to reach its first MEAC final since 2001.

It was the end of a successful day for Hampton, whose men’s basketball team beat Morgan State 60-55 on the same floor a few hours earlier for its own MEAC crown. Men’s players, wearing championship T-shirts and hats, cheered on the final seconds from behind the Hampton bench.

The women’s team’s third straight victory over Howard this season marked another milestone for secondyear coach David Six, who clapped and hugged his assistant coaches as the

buzzer sounded.

Howard used a packed-in zone to slow the game and limit possessions, but eventually wore down as Hampton was able to eventually get the ball inside.

Doyle, the MEAC player of the year, hit 8 of 11 free throws and added seven rebounds, but Howard never got into an offensive flow.

Cheyenne Curley-Payne grabbed 10 rebounds for the Lady Bison, but missed all nine of her field goal attempts. Howard, which trailed by as many as 19 points, also missed 10 of 12 from 3-point range.

AP WRITER ASSOCIATED PRESS

Sports 10

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Wednesday, March 16, 2011

FROM WALK-ON TO CAPTAIN CHRISTOPHER JACKSON STAFF WRITER Bowler Ashley Melson uses her values of hard work, and determination to excel in both athletics and academics.

Melson is a senior criminal justice student from Dayton, OH. She attended Conel White High School.

Melson believes everything that’s worth having is worth working or fighting for.

“Nothing in life comes easy, this I know,” Melson said. “But if you’re passionate about anything that’s worth your time, love and energy, you’ll give it everything and more.”

Bowling wasn’t Melson’s first love.

In fact, while in high school at she participated in basketball, softball, volleyball and track and field. Holding leadership position in each of these sports Melson knew that her future would be bright.

“I always knew I would attend FAMU,” Melson said. “I just didn’t know what my purpose would be once

I arrived.”

W i t h academics being her sole focus at Florida A&M University, Melson tended to put everything else on hold.

H o w e v e r , she felt that something from Courtesy To The Famuan her was missing.

“I’ve always had a hidden love for bowling,” Melson said.

“Although I didn’t bowl in high school I had people such as Coach Williams who is now deceased and my family teaching me the right concepts of the game.”

Melson who is now the co-captain on the Lady Rattler Bowling team actually started off as a walk on, having no previous bowling experience.

“I wasn’t exactly sure how my

journey would be, but I love my team and wouldn’t trade my experience for anything,” Melson said.

Melson joined the bowling team, but she also was inducted into the White and Gold Honor Society and joined Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.

“Sometimes I wonder how I did it all,” Melson said. “But my faith, family and friends kept me going.”

Melson said she plans to continue her education after graduation and already has schools that she would like to attend.

“After I graduate from FAMU, I plan to attend Law School,” Melson said.

“My top three options are Florida A&M University College of Law, Bowen School of Law and North Carolina Central University.”

Timothy Jones, a senior Healthcare Management student from Atlanta said that Melson’s heart-warming and welcoming personality makes it easier for her family and friends.

“Ashley is a humble individual who

First-round exit disappoints

lights up any room she walks in,” Jones said.

Melson said that in order for one to grow, you must first look within yourself and become the change that you would like to see.

“It’s ok to have flaws,” Melson said.

“But you have to be willing to accept your flaws and learn from them, or else you’ll never grow nor achieve.”

Melson challenges herself even if the task seems impossible.

“I remember Ashley saying she didn’t think she would do all that she’s done,” Jones said. “But that just shows us that should never limit yourself and that anything is possible.”

Melson is definitely someone to look at as a leader, strong-willed, talented and loving individual. Melson plans to continue and strike her way to an alley of success.

CHRISTOPHER JACKSON FAMUANSPORTS@GMAIL.COM

Wrestling

TOMMY HAWKINS STAFF WRITER The Lady Rattlers (14-14, 8-7 in the MEAC) basketball team could potentially win the Mid-Eastern Athletic conference in the 2011-2012 season.

Coppin State (12-17, 8-7 in the MEAC) dealt the Lady Rattlers a tough first-round 76 to 64 home loss in this year’s MEAC tournament.

They gained valuable experience for next year’s 2011-2012 MEAC championship run.

Christian Rateree and Danielle Anderson are the only two graduating seniors. The Lady Rattlers will return the majority of its team next season. Keeping the core group of girls together builds good team chemistry.

Antonia Bennett and Tameka McKelton both finished with AllMEAC first team honors. They bring scoring, rebounding, intelligence, toughness, hustle, and experience to every game. Neither player appears phased when they are in the spotlight.

Senior leadership is vital to winning next season and a key component in winning the MEAC conference title.

The Lady Rattlers currently have six juniors on the team including: Quiana Donald, Antonia Bennett, and Tamika McKelton.

That list includes the two leading scorers, the leading rebounder, and assist leader will all return next season.

Jasmine Grice is the youngest of the starting five. She uses her versatility to lock down the other team’s best player. She could be the x-factor in the teams chance to win the MEAC Conference title next season.

The defensive attention from other teams Bennett and McKelton recieve, creates scoring opportunities for Grice. Without Bennett and McKelton scoring other teams could focus on preventing Grice from getting rebounds, steals, and points.

Shekeira Copeland provides a scoring presence off the bench. She has a soft touch around the rim to

A total of six wrestlers spent their spring break preparing, and competing in the National Collegiate Wrestling Association 14th Annual National Championships.

The 2011 NCWA National Championship was hosted by Mercer University this year, and started on Friday with a total of 77 schools in the tournament.

Softball Coach Wiggins and the softball team are preparing diligently for the USF tournament on Friday March 18-20 in Tampa, Fla. The Rattlers currently sit third in the conference at 7-5.

They can also boast about coach Wiggins being recently appointed to the NCAA rules comittee. Her tenure starts in September and will go on for four years.

File Photo The Famuan

go along with strong finishes at the basket.

When Bennett went down with her ankle injury, Copeland stepped up and played important minutes during the last three games.

The Lady Rattlers finished the season with the third best offensive attack in the MEAC (64.6 points per game). The team also finished first in the MEAC in rebounds averaging 41 rebounds per game this season.

The consistent success of the Lady Rattlers in scoring and rebounding can improve their chances of advancing to the MEAC Conference

tourney finals next season.

The Hampton Lady Pirates won the MEAC Conference title for the 2010-2011 season. The Lady Rattlers lost to Hampton 47 to 59 at home on January 24, 2011. The Lady Pirates are the most challenging opponent in the MEAC for the team.

Next season the women’s basketball team aims to strike the first blow towards the Conference Champion.

Players and coaches could not be reached for contact.

TOMMY HAWKINS FAMUANSPORTS@GMAIL.COM

Stevens, Moore a strong future foundation

File Photo The Famuan

BARRINGTON MIZELL

STAFF WRITER Florida A&M’s men’s basketball team ended its season with a double overtime loss in the opening round of

the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.

With the heartbreak of a season of unfulfilled goals, there are positive signs for the team moving forward.

The young core of Amin Stevens, Avery Moore and Yannick Crowder will provide stability for the team going into next season.

Stevens, the team’s leading scorer (13.6) and rebounder (7.8), is a sophomore. Moore led the team in both three pointers made (80) and attempted (241). Crowder led the team with two blocks per game and 61 on the season.

The team is not completely in tact for next season. They will lose the veteran leadership of three of it’s seniors.

Christopher Walker, Rasheem Jenkins, and Larry Jackson are the lone seniors set to leave after this season.

Two of the three are starters and

Tennis

The men of Florida A&M will travel to Troy, Ala. to take on Troy University on Saturday, March 19.

The team has been on a tear since the start of conference play and have earned the number one spot in the South division of the conferece.

will need to be replaced next year in the lineup.

One of the more impressive stats on the season was the 11-4 home record the team posted in the Al Lawson Center this year. The home record helped the team to a 12-20 overall record and a 7-9 finish in conference play. It also helped the team to a seventh place finish in the conference, a three place improvement over last year’s final standing.

Although the team exited the conference tournament in the first round for the second consecutive year, next year looks to be more promising.

The year of experience and another year of development for the team’s young stars means a promising future for coach Eugene Harris and his team.

BARRINGTON MIZELL

FAMUANSPORTS@GMAIL.COM

go to famuansports@gmail.com to inquire today!