The Voice by FSU The Voice

Fayetteville State University Student Press

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The Voice For Students, By Students

Veterans find support at FSU By John Caldwell Voice Staff Writer

“A veteran is simply someone who has served their country in an honorable way,” said Charles Stevens, a retired Army Command Sergeant Major who served with the Triple Nickel, Parachute Infantry Battalion - the U.S. Army’s first African-American Pararoopers It’s hard to explain the sense of togetherness that former military members experience. It’s even harder to explain the sense of loss after leaving the military. Members share a connection that is beyond service to their country. Whichever branch of the military they served, they answered the call which began when Dr. David Allen, Special Advisor to the Provost at Fayetteville State University, arranged the first interest meeting Jan 12. In little over a month the newly formed Fayetteville State Veteran’s of America (FSVA) was officially chartered as a university organization on Feb 18. Just 10 days later on Feb 28, FSVA hosted its first official program presenting the 555th (Triple Nickel)- for its inaugural event. At the event a film was shown which introduce several of the original members of the Triple Nickel. It expressed the hardships and triumphs they experienced. The film depicted that within even months prior to President Harry S. Truman Executive Order 9981 which is credited with desegregating the military services, the Triple Nickel was deactivated Dec. 15, 1947. Most of the members were absorbed by the previously all-white 82nd Airborne Division’s 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment. An emotional CSM Stevens said “if I could just tell you how I really feel about Triple Nickels and when I saw this film here this afternoon, it’s an honor to be an American Soldier.” Dr. Allen, a retired US Army Colonel and Iraq/Afghanistan Veteran, says the idea for a student vets organization began on November 12,when Chancellor James Anderson was contacted by Jason Lindsay, a former North Carolina State University student and Iraq Veteran in Washington D.C.

Should U.S. take action in international affiars? page 4

March 16, 2011 • Vol. 2, Issue no. 9

OPEC:

Gas Prices on the Rise By Naadiya Hopkins Voice Staff Writer

555th Triple Nickle National Association (with permission)

Above, Paratroopers of the all-Black 555th “Triple Nickles” Parachute Infantry Battalion await inspection prior to a 1945 jump. Below, Command Sergeant Major (Ret) Charles Stevens, member of Samuel Council Chapter of the 555th Nickles Association addresses the audience at the ‘Triple Nickles’ Program hosted by the Fayetteville State Veterans of America” on Feb 28 at Shaw Auditorium. meeting because he knows the potential all vets possess in executing a mission, goals and tasks. In addition to his full time course load, he is the VP of the BioPhiChem Club, and secretary of the HOSA Club. He also aspires to become an Army medical doctor. As of March 1, the FSVA is a chapter Voice photo by Dorien Caldwell member of the National Student Veterans The FSVA Chapter was officially recog- of America, which was founded in 2008. nized by the university. The organization’s This is the first SVA Chapter to organize president Daniel Ramos, a junior biol- at an HBCU in North Carolina. Yet FSU’s ogy major, served three tours in Iraq dur- past has intertwined with the military to ining his 13 years in the Army. Mr. Ramos clude a veterans club as early as 1947 said said he was shocked to learn a campus with Dr. Bertha Miller, Special Assistant to the so many veteran students coupled with its Chancellor and FSU Historian. proximity to Ft. Bragg did not have a vet“Increased enrollment of veterans at the erans group. college after World War II was so great, According to Mr. Ramos he agreed to that trailers had to be used, establishing an take the lead role during the first interest see VETERAN’S, page 2

The Sports wrap up page 7

Imagine if you had to pay six dollars a gallon for gas. Around the world there are some countries paying over six dollars a gallon for gas. In Fayetteville gas prices are now three dollars and fifty-seven cents a gallon. We may be headed in that direction. There are many factors that influence gas prices, from international and domestic issues to, civil and political issues around the world. Other factors include financial situations affecting stock markets, and supply and demand. Upheaval throughout the Middle East and North Africa has greatly affected the confidence of the crude oil supply throughout the world. A major contributor of crude oil internationally is the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). The mission of OPEC is to coordinate and unify petroleum policies among the member countries, in order to secure fair and stable prices for petroleum producers and make it efficient for the regular supply of petroleum to consuming nations. They also create a fair investment return for countries in the petroleum industry. Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela are the five founding countries of OPEC. Between the 1970’s and 1980’s a lot of the member countries took control of their petroleum industries when gas prices began to rise because of the Arab Oil embargo and the Iranian Revolution. As the violence continues in oil prices will continue to go up. Not long after unrest began to spread across several OPEC member countries Lybia was also suddenly embroiled in an uprising against its leader Moammar Qadhafi who has been in power since 1969. Citizens of Libya want him to step down and leave the country. Libya is an oil-rich country that holds the most oil reserves in North Africa. Yet the majority of the population lives in poverty. In Lybia the population is impoverished. There are no jobs created to help the country’s economy . In Libya the price of crude oil is now $105

see GAS, page 2

INDEX News page 2-3 Opinion page 4-5 Features page 6 Sports page 7

2 The Voice, For Students, By Students

| March 16, 2011

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Regulating Ethics:

Should the Government Regulate More or Less? by Charnell Harris Voice News Editor

Parents are suing the major corporation, Triad Group, for the wrongful death of their toddler son. The Kotharis Family in Houston claim that their son developed bacillus cereus, a dangerous infection after being exposed to the medical alcoholic swabs produced by the Triad Group. Doctors confirmed that what had caused his death was indeed the contaminated product. Their son, Harrison Kotharis died at the age of two. This year, governmental agencies have recalled numerous important everyday items. The fault can go on both big business and the government. The problem of faulty and or contaminated products being put on shelves for Americans to use is a major problem, especially when such events are

preventable. The lines have been drawn in Washington as to where political parties stand on the issue of the U.S. government’s involvment in the business market. Democrats usually take the stand for government regulation, while Republicans mostly are against it. Earlier in his term, President Obama took a lot of heat trying to place more regulations on corporations According to experts, like Paul Krugman, laureate of the Nobel Prize in Economics, part of the reason for the nation’s economic decline is due to not enough regulation to make banks do what is best for their clients. In early March, the House of Representatives and the Senate were in a deadlock trying to get a new budget proposed that both see REGULATIONS, page 8

VETERANS continued front page

area on campus called Trailer City,” said Dr. Miller who is writing a book on FSU history Dorothy Thompson was ecstatic to learn of the chapter’s national recognition. Mrs. Thompson, who is a senior business major, serves as the group’s secretary, said she wanted a connection with others who have had the same “walk” as she has had. . Mrs. Thompson feels it is important for her to contribute to helping vets. . This Staff Sergeant’s “walk” includes seven years active duty status in the Army, 11 years as a drilling reservist, with a year tour in Iraq from February 2004 to March 2005. Her husband is a veteran of the first Gulf War having retired from service in 2002, and her 22 year old son has already served two tours in Iraq. Mrs. Thompson, who works for the Department of Residence Life, says she hopes to reach out to the many vets on campus, as well as the Army and Air Force ROTC programs. She says she believes FSVA has a lot to offer the ROTC students. One of the group’s primary missions is to “provide a network of support to military veterans and their families.” It is this peer-to-peer networking that attracted former Army First Sergeant Chinh Ngo. The organization’s treasurer, Mr. Ngo says it is very important to give back to the

community in whatever way you can. “We cannot just take, take, take,” he said. Many vets are on campus due to some military benefit like tuition assistance, the GI Bill, or Vocational Rehabilitation says Mr. Ngo. There are many instances where a vet who has been on campus a while can assist another vet that would be difficult for a traditional student, and this organization serves as a contact point for those newly arrived students says Mr. Ngo. The sophomore accounting major served over 21 years in the Army. He aspires to earn his CPA and operate his own business. Having found the camaraderie Mr. Ramos says he was missing, the next major task will be the organizations first membership drive after the spring break. He has already reached out to several organizations. He hopes to build additional networks. He also envisions a “Wounded Warriors Program,” to assist vets with special needs, a mentorship program, and a spouse’s support group. “Being in a military town, student-veterans now have an outlet here, you have people that have ‘been there done that, that can bridge that gap that may exist,” said Mr. Ramos. He says it is the 25 current members who are the foundation to build upon, to make things happen for the FSVA.

NEWS, STORY TIPS: 910-672-2210, agarcia1@broncos.uncfsu.edu Come by and see us: 241 Jones Student Center Editor in Chief Alicia Bayat, agarcia1@broncos.uncfsu.edu News Editor Charnell Harris, charri129@broncos.uncfsu.edu Design Editor Stacey Robinson, srobins9@uncfsu.edu Adviser Professor Kevin M. Dilley: kdilley@uncfsu.edu

send news tips to the editor; agarcia1@broncos.uncfsu.edu

nothing at all. They are there but they will not demean or speak negatively of my significant and they definitely will not give me their “guy advice.” If I ask for it specifically they will reluctantly give me advice or try to avoid it all together.

There is this expectation that we are so equal that we can be friends with both men and women. I have heard many women say that they prefer men as friends than women. It may be for different reasons but very few have reached the level of expectation Men and women can definitely be of the definition of friendship. friends. I’m a “gamer” so I have guy Many women that say that either say it friends I have sat for hours with either onout of habit or don’t really understand what line, 360 or wii. We’ve even kicked around a friendship with a man entails. I for one the prospect of retro games on a ps2 or 3. understand boundaries. Although many of We’ve hit a Waffle House or two late at my friends are males, I have this internal night after a long night of gaming. boundary of respect for their wives, I have guy friends I have a or significant others. It’s just somebeer with, just to hang out. I thing I have learned as my friendalso have guy friends I get toships have evolved. gether to just have discussions. Men tend to be rescuers while I have guy friends that will help some women tend to need a lot of with my computer issues or verescuing. For many men the in- FINDING hicle issues (they teach me and stinct is to fix things or make things MY VOICE I learn). I have guy friends that right. help me bounce around ideas Can men and women be friends? when I have a mental block. Yes they can, although like any relationship But for the most part the best friendships there should respect and boundaries that have boundaries of respect. Good friends don’t interfere with the everyday life and respect your significant other and respect relationships of each. those bonds. There is that expectation that There were times in the past where your friends male or female just understand I have unintentionally crossed a small that family comes first. boundary of turning to my male friends for It’s about motivation, expectations and comfort and was quickly steered to the con- priorities. clusion that because we are friends, they Men and women should learn that somewill be there, listen, may give advice but times when you turn to someone else other not really, but for the most part my friend than your significant other in those hard reminded me that I should be talking to my moments you risk damaging that special significant other and not turning to another bond you share with your loved one, beman (not even a friend) for comfort. cause those moments should be reserved There is that thin line between actual for them. need and bonding with another over a traumatic event. I make comments and my guy friends will usually hear my words nod or say

ALICIA BAYAT

GAS continued from front page

dollars a gallon. OPEC is worried that the protest will spread further and affect other countries. “I would rather walk now these days. The price of gas is way too high. It takes me about 60 dollars every two weeks to fill up my gas tank. That is a lot. I enjoy driving but not to the point where is breaking my pockets,” said Ashley Lockhart. “The gas price is now way to high. I now begin to walk everywhere I go to save money,” said Shenetta Lawson. “I remember when my mom used to tell

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me when gas prices were 98 cents a gallon. ” Said Sherreka Turner. Oil prices are on the rise. Crude oil prices are about a hundred dollars a barrel. The burgeoning gas prices have affected many families and businesses. Many businesses have been affected because as customer’s demands become more and more difficult to meet,as the price of gas rise so may food prices. The cost to transport and deliver will go up to meet higher fuel prices.

MEET THE STAFF Staff Writers Nicolette Beatty, Krystal McDaniel, Briana Murrell, Nike Pascal, Camellia Sansberry, Tatiana Mosley, Shirley Townsend, John Caldwell, Naadiya Hopkins, Anna Lee, Rasheena Scott Staff Illustrator: Jovian Turnbull Staff Photographers: Tony Nelson, Nathaniel Stevenson, Charles Taylor

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Changes across the Globe

e y

e f o t

The world is continuously changing, be it the weather, fashion, food or gas prices. The thing that brings about the most life altering changes is those in government. 20 years from now, 2011 will go down in the history books as the “Year of Surprising Change.” What is News? Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, recently made a comment about how well the Al-Jazeera, an Arabic News Group, covers important news in the Middle East. She then related how in the United States, American journalists focus more on celebrity melt downs like Charlie Sheen. Do people really want to watch over paid celebrities lives go up in flames over real crisis? It is a shame when people know more about Chris Browns new hairdo than life changing events throughout the world. Ireland Political Parties Working together After being bailed out by the European Union (along with the Bank of Europe and other resources) for 92 billion dollars, Ireland’s two largest political parties have decided to cooperate and establish a new government. The Labor Party and the Fine Gael party are working together to try to cut the deficit and create jobs. Similar to the situation here in the U.S., with the exception that they are talking about a complete government overhaul. Qadhafi in Libya Colonel Muammar Qadhafi, ruler of Libya, is being asked to step down by several nations. Libya has been in a state of civil unrest since mid-January. The protests were influenced by those in Egypt, Tunisia and Yemen. The people are protesting against his 41 year reign as a dictator, high poverty rates and for basic human rights. The protests started peacefully, but soon escalated. Qadhafi is reported to have called for snipers to shut down protests and even hired African mercenaries. The mercenaries were described by the Libyan people as French speaking Africans, who “shoot to kill and nothing else.” France is worried about the influx of refugees that may be seeking to move there, because of the violence against protestors in Libya. Qadhafi has reportedly used air strikes and other such war tactics to keep the “peace” since the protests began. However, Qadhafi states that he only used them to bomb military bases. Recently, Qadhafi has reportedly started bombing oil fields captured by the rebels. As the largest producer of oil in North Africa, this means trouble for other nations. The price of crude

oil is going up rapidly. Nations like Great Britain, US and now the Arab League, have called for a “No Fly Zone” over Libya. Libyan rebel forces have been calling for a no fly zone, in order to weaken Qadhafi’s military power and would give them a better chance at fighting back. Qadhafi has done several interviews with the U.S. and British press, in which he states that “His people love him and are willing to die for him.” Among other things he blames the West for not backing him up, even though he states he has served with them in the War against terrorism. Qadhafi relates how other nations have no proof of the said violence, and that they have not killed that many people. While the proNEWS @ testors estimate that at least A GLANCE 1000 people have lost their lives in their fight for change. The U.S. has publically taken a stand against Libyan ruler Qadhafi. The Obama administration has begun to put in place several plans to handle the situation, including setting military forces around Libya and going to North Atlantic Trade Organization (NATO). President Obama has repeatedly called for Qadhafi to step down and is looking for ways to help the Libyan people. Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, is scheduled to meet with Libyan opposition forces in Paris on Monday. Nations involved in the NATO pact are furiously working to come up with a game plan to Qadhafi overwhelmed opposition forces and is recapturing territory previously taken by rebel forces. Last week, opposition forces captured two cities that held large oil fields. These areas are now back under the control of the existing Lybian government. Qadhafi’s troops have begun firing heavy artillery and rocket fire over large tracts of land and then sending in ground troops to take care of the surviving rebels. The opposition forces are very much under armed and do not have the supplies needed to fight back. Allied forces are nervous about setting up a no fly zone, for fear of being dragged into a difficult conflict. The U.S. fears that it will be left with the responsibility of monitoring the warring nation. France, the UK and Arab League were scheduled to meet on Mon. March 14 to discuss measures on how to handle Libya.

March 16, 2011

The Voice, For Students, By Students

Captain Jack Sparrow, Barbosa and Davy Jones, even they wouldn’t last long with the new breed of pirates who are constantly making headlines across the globe. They are attacking oil ships from Iran, taking hostages and hijacking ships from private family yachts to oil tankers and terrorizing the coasts of India. Nearly a dozen Americans have died in 2011 at the hands of pirates. The most recent headline was when a pirate ship attacked and took hostage a family of five from Denmark. Authorities are trying to locate and negotiate with the pirates for the family’s safe return; however, even if they are located officials were forewarned about attempting to board the hijacked boats of pirates. All recent documented cases have ended in death for the hostages. The pirates all follow a similar pattern in their attack methods, first hijacking a ship and either killing those on board and taking the ships contents or taking hostages and holding them for ransom. The average ransom demand for being released is at 5 million dollars. Governmental authorities ask citizens to stay away from certain areas such as the Agean Sea and Indian Ocean, the two most commonly hit areas.

CHARNELL HARRIS

Pirates

Guy-Greenbrier Earthquake Swarm 800 earthquakes since September, Arkansas has definitely seen better months. Most were not felt and caused no serious damage. Yet, the state has had several that reached over 3.4 on the Richter scale. They were no small tremors. The biggest earthquake to date happened on Sunday, Feb. 27 at 11 pm which registered at 4.7. This is the largest earthquake to hit Arkansas in 35 years. Scientists believe that the cause for this rare occurrence could be because of local injection wells. Seismologist based in Arkansas expect that this is not the end of the tremors and that citizens could be in store for a quake that will measure at leasst 5.0 to 5.5. Disaster in Japan The biggest earthquake ever to hit the island nation of Japan, struck and devastated its citizens on March 11. The quake registered in at 8.9 on the Richter scale. It makes this the fifth largest documented earthquake in the world. It exerted almost 8,000 times as much force as the recent quake

that hit New Zealand. The death toll is currently estimated into hundreds, yet they expect it to quickly rise into the thousands. Public transportation shut down in all the major cities like Tokyo, leaving many people stranded. Services were restablished last Saturday. Damages from the quake consist of houses being shaken off of their foundations and buildings being severely damanged.In the wake of the tragedy Japan is now left to deal with what may be considered as an even more devestating aftermath. Workers and government officials are now focused on Nuclear plants scattered across the Northeastern coast of Japan. They are fighting to prevent nuclear reactor melt downs and maintain the integrity of the containment. One of the plants has been reported to have suffered a hydrogen explosion on Saturday. Japanese officials are working to prevent further explosions. Already over 170,000 people have been evacuated from their homes. Evacuations will continue throughout the week until officials stop detecting radiation outside of the plant and in the surrounding areas. People who have evacuated were taken to shelters where they can be scanned for radiation and to see if they are infected. Because of the nuclear plants, it was reported that as of Sunday, a state of emergency was filed with the United Nations Nuclear Agency. Labeled as a Level 4 nuclear incident, it is projected that the consequences and aftermath of this event is greater than the initial quake. Because of the location of the earthquake, Japan’s industrial cities were not devastated. Thanks to the nations infrastructure the damage was not as extensive as it could have been.

Disaster in the Pacific Tsunamis hit the coast of Northeastern Japan after an 8.9 major earthquake on Friday. The quake hit at 2:46 p.m. Japan time. W Waves were reported to have measured at 30 feet. They barreled in from the Pacific and crashed into the coast. In the Miyagi Prefecture (state). Water came as far as six miles inland. Houses and people were found more than 60 miles off the coast. With most of the coast still under muddy water, officials were unable to accurately document the death toll. Witnesses say there are hundreds of bodies scattered across the area. The tsunamis sent minor waves towards Hawaii, Hawaii still evacuated citizens as a precaution. Waves also reached Southern California, were one man reportedly was swept into the sea and believed to be died. The destruction effects of the eathquake and tsunamis left thousands of homes devestated and entire cities were wiped out, leaving only foundations.

4 The Voice, For Students, By Students

OPINION

March 16, 2011

www.fsuvoice.com

Moral obligation or arrogance

No to U.S. involvement

Yes to humanitarian efforts

By Anna Lee Voice Staff Writer

By Alicia Bayat Voice Editor-in-Chief

George Washington once said, “Beware of foreign entanglements.” There must be a good reason why more than 200 years ago our first president urged us to stay out of foreign affairs. It is trouble. Despite what we as Americans think of our country the truth is that we are probably one of the most hated on earth. Why? We are seen as know it all’s with our ‘save the world’ attitude. We think that our way is the only way, the RIGHT way. Take the revolts in Libya, for example. Obama recently stated his opinion that Qadhifi must leave his power immediately. He is also considering military intervention in the area. Of course what is happening in Libya is sad and any person with morals would want to help them but I don’t think we should. Why do we show so much interest in other countries when the citizens in our own country are suffering? How can we consider military intervention when this country is in such dire financial straits? Not a lot of focus is put on it, but a lot of Americans are living in poverty. A majority of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. People are getting cut from their jobs every day. Those that are lucky enough to have jobs are suffering pay cuts. There are sick people dying because they can’t afford health insurance. Gas prices are going up. Tuition is ever increasing. Grants may be downsized. There is a crisis in America! And what do we do? Absolutely nothing (at least the people overseas are protesting). We just accept another day not being able to find a job, enough money to support our families or losing our homes. But still we stay silent while our government looks outward and considers spending money it can spend at home to help the poverty in our own borders.

It seems that the focus should be put on our own troubles first. How can you expect to help others when you can’t help yourself? The only reason we choose to invade other countries and ‘rescue’ the people is for the resources. The U.S. is not rich in resources. We depend heavily on a lot of countries for things like oil and diamonds. It just happens to be that places like Libya are part of OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) meaning they have and control a great oil supply. When these places experience crisis we feel that we must get involved or else we may risk losing our supply of resources. But our so called ‘helping’ a country is not the best option. Our intentions may seem beneficial but they are harmful. Look at the war on terrorism. We’ve been in Iraq for over 10 years and what do we have to prove, nothing but the lives of innocent people lost. Do we have evidence that getting involved has helped the Iraqi people? Not really and it definitely hasn’t helped us either. This just proves that once you get involved you get sucked in and it’s hard to get out. Another thing wrong with us intending to help other countries is a moral aspect. You have to realize that foreign countries have used dictatorships, monarchies, etc. successfully for many years. Just because there’s a snag doesn’t mean that it is ineffective way of governing. When we come in and try to make another country accept democracy as the only way to govern it is just wrong. It makes us look bad and immoral for not considering the culture and beliefs of other nations. Of course, I’m not the only one that feels this way. A recent poll on politicsdaily.com showed that only about 25% of Americans feel we should get involved in the crisis in Egypt. That means that over 70% believe that we should not be involved. Until we can figure out how to effectively run our own country we should stay out of the business of others.

“Arab League Urges No-Fly zone for Lybia,” according to the Los Angeles Times. One at a time old regimes are toppled through the sheer will and determination of the people. But for Lybia it’s been a long hard fight. Does the United States have a “moral” obligation to get involved in the internal affairs of another nation? That’s the question on everyone’s minds these past few weeks as riots and violent clashes unfold as they have in Lybia. While the world has watched in astonishment as a wave of violence and protests sweep through North Africa and the Middle East, Lybian leader Moammar Qadhafi holds on to the reigns of a power with the determination of a man obsessed. The U.S. government has a long history of humanitarian, and military involvement in the affairs of other nations. The U.S. is well known for becoming involved on the side of the little guy to “right a wrong,” or balance out a tyrannical leadership. When is getting involved becoming too involved? The “moral obligation” argument has been tossed around by the Obama administration often. It was used in the health care argument and is now being used in the argument for initiating military action against Lybian leader Qadhafi. The U.S. is considering establishing a “No fly-zone” over Lybia as peaceful protests have evolved into violent clashes between pro Qadhafi forces and the population. The stand on intervention for the Obama administration has always been that intervention may help prevent the deaths of innocent civilians. The United States has a moral obligation if not a political obligation as world leaders to get involved in the defense of innocent civilians and to help prevent the deaths of thousands of innocent non-combatants caught in the turmoil. When two entities have become so embroiled in their own agendas and clashes they forget the innocent that may get hurt in the crossfire someone has to step up and help give a voice to those unable to speak above the fray. If that happens to be the U.S. or any other entity with the resources and ability to

prevent the exploitation or deaths of thousands of innocent people then there is that responsibility to help. It’s harder to step up and help and much easier to turn away and pretend that as long as it’s not directly affecting you then not to get involved. You constantly hear the argument that within this country there is rampant unemployment and poverty. But consider that as Americans we are a fortunate nation. In comparison to the violent clashes innocent citizens are caught up at the moment, Americans can say they have the choice to continue to look for work, find a way to adjust incomes, resources and spending habits. Americans also have the choice to stop complaining and expecting the government to help lift citizens out of poverty and realize all the choices available that others do not enjoy. Everyday that Americans get up in the morning and complain because they can’t afford to finance their “habits” like cable, internet, alcohol, tobacco, video games, and take out, is another day that someone in Tunisia lost their lives or someone in Egypt couldn’t afford to eat. It is even another day that someone stuck in the conflict in Lybia was unable to avoid the possibility of becoming a victim caught between two forces in a struggle for power. It is another day when someone in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Iran or Iraq had their voice stifled because of the lack of political, social or religious freedoms many of us, in America enjoy everyday. As humanitarians with enough resources to sustain leisure time, the U.S. has a moral obligation to intervene and affect the lives of those who don’t have the power or resources to help themselves. You can’t fight a powerful force without powerful allies. Intervention doesn’t always mean military force. America can’t be everywhere all at once, but it can and does have an important role in the world. In 2008 Barak Obama promised to mobilize and lead the international community to help end brutality and violence if he became president. President Obama is now faced with that decision in 2011 as Lybian leader Moammar Qadhafi initiates extreme violent measures against his own people to hold on to his 41 year reign. It’s time to stop talking and act.

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March 16, 2011

Riding it out

The Voice, For Students, By Students RESTAURANT REVIEW: THE SANDPIPER

It’s easy to there everyday, it’s about love someone the empty space that’s left w h e n e v e r y - that someone else once thing is perfect filled. That’s harder than and things are losing a love. It’s losing a g o i n g r i g h t . part of your stability. It’s easy to tell Even with all that, it’s someone you amazing how many people love them when get married everyday for they seem perfect. It’s the wrong reasons. The much harder when you see right reasons do not have to them at their worst or when be about love, but it should faced with be about a mutual obstacles. understanding beTolerate is tween two people . . . it’s what you do who know why amazing when you put they are doing it up with things and understand how many or people you their roles. people get don’t’ necesAccording sarily want to the National married to put up Center for Health everyday for S t a t i s t i c s t h e with. Accept is what you divorce rate in the wrong do when you America has dereasons. don’t really clined, but so has think about the marriage rate. the details More people are you are just comfortable cohabitating and of those with the situation, the per- getting married, almost half son, all of it. It’s just how it will be divorced within the is and you’re good with it. first five years of marriage. But when a relationship What ever happened to does end, it’s not about “until death…?” love or lust. Sometimes The only death may be when a long term relation- the death of the institution ship/marriage ends it’s of marriage if it no longer about the person you’ve suits the purposes of socigotten accustomed to being ety.

Whatever happened to “until death..?” By Alicia Bayat Voice Editor-in-Chief

It’s easy to say we’re independent and socially aware. It’s even easier to say we “tolerate” each other or other cultures. The difficult part is being truly, personally honest. We’re not really independent nor do we want to be so independent that we become isolated. Has the age of “hook ups and friends with benefits” eroded the idea of marriage? We don’t want to be so disconnected that all the good things in life aren’t worth having without someone to be there, to share the joys of the good times and the burden of the bad ones. Over the past few years I have listened to men talk about how they would love to have that 50-year

marriage. Well to get to that point you have to be willing to ride out the bad times, oh because there will be bad times. All that love in his/her eyes didn’t come without a price. It didn’t happen without hard work. It surely didn’t happen because he/she bailed out at the first signs of trouble. In there came the support, the stability, the adapting to each other’s quirks. An important part to understand is that nothing is 50/50, even though everyone like to throw that term around. Relationships of all kinds ebb and wane, there will be times that one person has to be stronger for a time than the other or even take the lead. That doesn’t make the relationship less valid. It makes it adaptable, and stronger. Understanding that there should be accountability but no score board. It gives relationships dimensions.

MOVIE REVIEW:

I Expected more from “I am Number Four” By Anna Lee Voice Staff Writer

“I am Number Four” is a sci-fi action movie about John (Alex Pettyfer), an alien from planet Loreean. When John was a little boy, he, among a few others chosen because of his special powers (John is number four). One night, their enemies, the Magdoors, attacked the Loreeans attempting to wipe out the whole race. All the Loreeans were separated. John traveled to Earth to start a new life. Unfortunately, the Magdoors follow him wanting to kill all the Loreeans and eventually dominate the world. It is difficult for John to have a normal teenage life. He has to keep his powers hidden and if his peers notice that he’s ‘weird’ he must move to a different state and change his identity.

John struggles to make friends, fit in and most importantly find love. When John moves to Paradise he finds the perfect girl, Sarah, a cute photographer. Of course it’s love at first sight. However, when a classmate discovers that John is an alien he has to choose between his safety and his dream girl. John must persevere in order to discover his purpose and find the other chosen Loreeans to save their race. I will admit, I am not a big sci-fi person but this movie definately did not do anything to change my mind. I think the concept was great but the way it was carried out on screen did not meet my expectations. The one thing that irritated me the most was John’s relationship with Sarah. I know it’s a movie but you can’t fall in love with someone after one night! Their relationship was very forced and quick. From ‘Hello’ to ‘I can’t be without you’ in about three min-

utes. Another downside was the special effects. Most of the stunts and special effects were unrealistic looking and with sci-fi you have to have good graphics to make it more believable. However, the most important thing of any movie is the plot. I felt as if the plot was on pause for the entire movie except for the last few minutes. We know that John is a ‘chosen’ alien and the bad aliens are after him but that was where it stayed. There was no twist or surprise, just a lot of fighting and action. The plot was flat to me. Overall, “I am Number Four” was a mediocre movie. It wasn’t the best but it wasn’t the worst either. If you are a true movie connoisseur then I would not recommend it, you’ll be disappointed. However, if you like sci-fi or if you just want to go out with friends and see some fluff then this is perfect.

Country Cookin’ & Family Atmosphere By Nike Pascal Voice Staff Writer

The Sandpiper family restaurant provides its customers with a “home-style kitchen” dinning experience. It was established in 1991 the Sandpiper Seafood Restaurant is an all you can eat buffet. It is located at 411 N. Eastern Blvd., in Fayetteville. The restaurant’s décor reminded me of a family picnic scene with its red and white checkerboard patterned tablecloth and wood picnic chairs. What I truly enjoyed from the Sandpiper were the stuffed crabs. It’s a mixture of stuffing, crab meat, green and red peppers and seasoning. It’s served in the crab shell steaming hot. It’s a must have. The mashed potatoes dripping with home-made gravy are to die for. The Sandpiper even has finger food for the little ones. They serve fried wings, chicken nuggets, fries and pizza. They are definitely a delectable delight for any tot’s fickle little pallet. The entrée’s were enormous. Their meat portions were huge. I certainly wasn’t going to starve. The aroma of freshly prepared food wafted throughout the restaurant to make it difficult to choose. I don’t know many seafood places with comparable food choices and such appealing competitive prices. You definitely get your money’s worth and so much more. My total was less than $11 for unlimited food, dessert and drinks. Even the staff added to the amazing experience. They were friendly, courteous and kept customers’ glasses full. When I left the Sandpiper I was full and most definately satisfied with the whole experience. Another terrific aspect of the Sandpiper was that from the carpet to its forest green wall paper, the restrooms and including the ceiling fans, were impressively clean. The only setback to the Sandpiper Seafood Restaurant is the name, with less than five seafood options it’s by no means a seafood restaurant but I still give Sandpiper a thumbs up It’s delicious southern cooking for a really great price. I would recommend this place to anyone who enjoys eating at buffets or anyone looking for a great restaurant where they can take the family without having to spend a fortune. They also offer gift certificates, take-out and discounts for senior citizens and children.

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COMMUTER PAINS By Chris Hayes Voice Contributing Writer

Overworked and Ill-rested are two words that easily sum up how I’ve been feeling lately. This has been ongoing for the past few weeks. As a commuting senior it just seems like there is never a break and always something new to do popping up in my agenda. I’m not really blaming anyone or honestly complaining it just seems like it’s a fact of life with my upcoming graduation. I have been juggling a job, my studies, handling everything for graduation (the wait for an audit is nerve wracking by the way.), and looking for a post-graduation job. It doesn’t seem like a lot when I break it down like that but for anyone who has been there or is there right

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Spring Break by Briana Murrell Voice Staff Writer

Here at Fayetteville State University, we’re half way through the semester. Midterms are done, grades are in, and May is right around the corner. It was just the other week that some of us were at home, relaxing in the comfort of our own beds. Some students were visiting places out of the city, the state, and some the country. Whether spent near or far, spring break was a week free from lecturing, notes and fifty minute classes. With spring break still fresh on everyone’s minds, students reminisce on their personal breaks. #Spring Break was a time for … “… relaxation, vacation, and a break” -Traci Bish, Senior “… enjoying time away from

now you know what I am talking about. And even if you’re not a graduating senior, you may be juggling a lot just to be coming to school at all. I feel that my fellow commuters all know that “doing it all” feeling. I have gained a whole new level of respect for the seniors that came before me and the road they walked that last year of school. This is when you have to have learned that you need to have a game plan and way to attack all the work you have ahead of you in order to not to burn out. . As a commuter there is also a slight danger of working yourself so hard that you don’t get any rest. This makes commuters in the role of driver potentially dangerous. That’s not to that any random driver doesn’t have the potential to be dangerous (have you driven in Fayetteville lately?) but for some of our commuters who have to drive

campus.” -Jasmine Bond, Freshman “… getting away from my regular area and doing things i wouldn’t normally do.” -Stephanie Dixon, Freshman “… getting away from Fayetteville.” -Bryan Gains, Senior “… catching up with friends and family.” -Sage Gardner, Sophomore “… having fun with no regrets. What happens in Miami stays in Miami!” -Asia Gunnings, Sophomore “… fun and a break away from school.” -Tecarla Ikard, Sophomore “… fun in the sun at the beach.” -Sherdilia Lennon, Junior “… going back home to work and make that money.” -Tyresha Monteque, Junior “… sleeping, sleeping, and sleeping.” -Chaniqua Simpson, Junior

March 16, 2011

and hour or more it gets scary. Many have family as well and when you add all of that into the mix it just gets to be a bit much. Sometimes you may not even realize what it is that’s happening to you ahead of time. By the time you realize that you’re overwhelmed, overworked, and running behind it’s already too late and you have stacked so much on your plate you can’t manage it all in a healthy way. You may end up with an overload of classes or commitments that you can’t handle it. DON’T LET THAT HAPPEN! Realize you are human and there is only so much you can actually do before it affects your quality of life. Just because you can’t go to a show or you have to tell a friend or family member “no” doesn’t mean the world will end. They just have to realize that you have some priorities that require your attention. Time management is one of the biggest issues we as commuters face. And we have to remember to take a break (10 minutes, 30 minutes, whatever) every once in a while to help us keep our sanity. I speak from experience—I recently have

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lost track of the importance of getting a decent night’s sleep and have been focused heavily on handling all school work, extracurricular activities, and my job. That’s going to change though. I can’t let this break me down. So now what I am doing is actually taking the time to balance everything out. Yes, some of the fun stuff I did is getting cut down in time but I know it will be worth it in the end. Most of all I’ve taken the time to actually get eight hours of shut eye every night. I had to tell a few friends that I can’t spend time with them like we did when we were in high school or my early college years because I have a paper to do. Some did get upset. Real friends though will understand how important college is and be willing to be supportive of you. Ultimately taking the time to lay everything out and take a couple of breaks will make you more productive and less stressed. So whether you’re a graduating senior or just working on finishing this semester hang in there. Spring Break is over now and it’s time to get back to work. .

THESCENE

Enertainment Zeus The Rock Shop Music Hall Friday, March 18 7:00 p.m. DedBuny The Black Cat Lounge Friday, March 18 8:00 p.m. The Fox Hunt Big Harry’s Tavern Friday, March 18 8:00 p.m. Whiskey Bent Valley Boys Big Harry’s Tavern Friday, March 18 9:00 p.m.

Newsong Crown Coliseum Saturday, March 19 6:00 p.m. Francesca Battistelli Crown Coliseum Saturday, March 19 6:00 p.m. Kutless Crown Coliseum Saturday,March 19 7:00 p.m.

EatLiz The Rock Shop Music Hall Sunday, March 27 10:00 p.m. Luna Occulta The Key Club Tuesday, March 29 5:30 p.m. Oh No Fiasco The Rock Shop Friday, April 01 8:00 p.m.

Driven The Rock Shop Music Hall Saturday, March 19 7:00 p.m.

Richard Bacchus & The Luckiest Girls The Black Cat Lounge Friday, April 01 7:00 p.m.

Chasing Eden Club Xscape Wednesday, March 23 8:00 p.m.

Schmegma The Rock Shop Music Hall Saturday, April 02 7:00 p.m.

Chris August Crown Coliseum Saturday, March 19 5:00 p.m.

New Machine The Rock Shop Music Hall Friday, March 25 7:00 p.m.

Oh No Fiasco The Rock Shop Music Hall Saturday, April 02 7:00 p.m.

David Crowder Band Crown Coliseum Saturday, March 19 6:00 p.m.

MotorJunkie The Rock Shop Music Hall Friday, March 25 10:00 p.m.

Words Such as Burn Fort Bragg Saturday, April 02 7:00 p.m.

The Scene Nicolai Levring Methodist University Saturday, March 19, 20th 12:00 p.m.

March 16, 2011

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SPORTS