THE SIGNAL THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF GEORGIA STATE UNIVERSITY SERVING THE STUDENTS SINCE 1933
GSUSIGNAL.COM
VOLUME 79 | ISSUE 14
Academic teams’ funds to be slashed next year The Student Activity Fee Committee cut funding from academic teams, despite their growth and international recognition
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2011
College media demand apology from mayor teRah BOYd Staff Writer
Following the arrests of two student journalists last Saturday while covering Occupy Atlanta protests, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed and the Atlanta Police Chief have yet to respond to letters calling for the city to drop its charges. The two arrested persons discussed in the letter, Judith Kim of Georgia State’s The Signal and Alisen Redmond of Kennesaw State University’s The Sentinel, were jailed for approximately 14 hours for “obstruction of traffic.”
The Student Press Law Center, a nonprofit advocacy group for the rights of student media, sent a letter to Mayor Kasim Reed responding to last Saturday’s arrests. SPLC Executive Director Frank LoMonte recognized the difficult task of crowd control in volatile situations but believed poor decision making led to the arrests of members of student press. “The officers had ample time to make a distinction between a person causing a disturbance and a person peacefully recoding police and protester activity as part of a bona fide news organization,” LoMonte said in the letter.
Continued on p. 3
INSIDE THIS EDITION
JOCelYN CRaWleY Staff Writer Although Academic Team Fee Council leaders stressed the importance of having adequate funds to compete in scholastic competitions, the Student Activity Fee Committee voted to cut their funding for the 2013 fiscal year during their last meeting. While the ATFC was granted $149,507 last year, they will receive nearly $13,000 less next year to pay for international trips and competitions. The Council lobbies on behalf of the Model United Nations, Model Arab League, Model African Union and Mock Trial teams. The group petitioned for a 44 percent increase, translating into about $70,000 more, during the Oct. 28 SAFC meeting. In emphasizing the importance of an increase in funding for the upcoming year, ATFC Secretary Gregory Goll explained the potential educational and economic benefits of supporting academic teams. “The Mock Trial isn’t a business model. Kids learn. They apply what they learn and get into law school. They meet and make references. Then many times they use [them] to land jobs, which obviously encourage alumni donations,” Goll said. James Dutton, Student Government Association president and SAFC member, supported ensuring the Academic Team Fee Council retained funding based on the prestige its organizations bring to the university. “They have been on the AJC. They have been mentioned in the national sections of the USA Today,” Dutton said. “This is a big deal.” “If you don’t think that they’re garnering enough prestige, then I urge you to look at the legislative actions taken this year by both the House and Senate passing bills recognizing the amazing contributions to education and to student life at Georgia State given by these teams and their faculty advisor. The state has paid attention,” he continued. Yet, Dr. Eric Blacknall, SGA Advisor and SAFC member, questioned the validity of granting the Academic Team Fee Council an increase in funding on grounds that much of the money would be used for an international trip that only benefited a small number of students.
z eNteRtaINMeNt
HORDE OF SUPER MARIOS INVADE THE STREETS OF ATLANTA JuDy kiM | the signAl
SPOTLIGHT: JAMES VINCENT
THUR Hi 55
page 13
z MORe NeWS
STUDENTS SUPPORT NEW BILL ALLOWING SUNDAY ALCOHOL SALES, DESPITE MAJOR OPPOSITION
page 2 z CaMPUS lIfe
PR POWERHOUSE INTERN AT CNN SETS THE STANDARD FOR THE COMPETITION page 17
z SPORtS
CENTER JAMES VINCENT EXPRESSES HIS EXCITEMENT FOR NEW COACH RON HUNTER AND TALKS ABOUT HIS UPTEMPO COACHING STYLE. HE SAYS THEY’RE READY TO IMPROVE THEIR GAME THIS YEAR AND READY TO TAKE ON ANY OPPONENT.
page 9
PAul ABell | ABell iMAges
Continued on p. 2
WED Hi 70
Redmond had a press pass with photo identification distinguishing her as a member of the media, while Kim wore a shirt that identified herself as an employee of The Signal. Although LoMonte said the pass did not excuse flagrant violation of the law, he also said additional circumstances around the cases should have been taken in consideration. “While having a press pass is not a license to violate the law, the ‘violation’ for
FRI Hi 56
SAT Hi 61
SUN Hi 67
US!
Follow us!
NEWS
z ONLINE: UNDERGROUND ATLANTA
TO OPEN 500 PARKING SPOTS FOR STUDENTS (UPDATE)
www.gsusignal.com/news
Freshman Hall to extend finals hours
Rachel Shuffield Staff Writer
The Freshman Dining Hall will be opened for all day study hours the week before finals with an arrangement between the University Provost and the Student Government Association. In addition to its regular hours, the hall will be open to students between the hours of 1 a.m. and 6 a.m. starting Nov. 28 through Dec. 1. Security in the form of additional police officers for the arrangement will be provided compliments of the Office of the Provost, according to SGA vice president of Student Services,Grace Lee. The SGA will be providing free food for students that utilize the arrangement, Lee said. The glass area of the dining hall will also be designated as a silent study lounge, according to Lee. Lee encouraged SGA members at their last Senate meeting to spread the word about the arrangement to their fellow students next week because of the short time left before finals.
“Make sure you guys tell everyone because we have a really short turn-around, because after next week we’re going to be going on break,” Lee said. “Please tell everyone you know because I really want to get a good turn out.” The fight to accommodate a 24-hour study area for students during finals week has been an arduous one. In previous years, the library, which is now open until 2 a.m. during finals, was turned down as a potential 24-hour study area due to cost concerns. Earlier this year, the MILE computer lab in the Commons and the Aderhold Learning Center were both seriously considered as viable venues for study sites but were ultimately dismissed out of concerns over security and operational costs. However, the implementation of a 24-hour study area for students puts Georgia State on the same level as other large four-year institutions in the state, including the Georgia Institute of Technology and the University of Georgia, both of which provide 24-hour access to their main libraries during the week before and of finals.
Michelle Asci | the Signal
Marketing major, Victoria Perry, studies in the Freshman Dining hall which will be open for 24 hours starting Nov. 28 through Dec. 1.
SAFC cuts Academic teams’ funding “I am a proponent of advancing the reputation of Georgia State University. I am excited about the idea that we have academic teams doing that, but I am not in support of teams that have 100 students that get to travel to Cairo…” Blacknall said. Several of the voting student members and alternates on the SAFC are also members of academic teams, including Zain Malik, Elise Laplante, Allison Renyi and James Dutton. Ben Williams, SAFC member and SGA vice predisent for Student Life,emphasized the value of Diversity Programs by stating that they benefit a greater number of students than Academic Teams and spend less money by hosting events on campus. “I value academic teams and what they bring. However, I don’t think that what Academic Teams do is more important than what Diversity does or what University Wide does or the colleges do,” he said. While the university’s Academic Teams had their funding cut for 2013, Diversity received an increase from $57,500 to $79,547. In making a case for Diversity,
Williams referenced how the Student Activity Fee Committee cut funding for various student organizations the previous year. “Last year’s SAFC really screwed Diversity and University Wide because to tell student organizations who benefit anywhere from 1,000 to 5,500 students on a semesterly basis that they’re all going to be funded at a level less than they were a year before when they all increased the level of programming they were doing on campus,” Williams said. “That was painful and I don’t think that should ever have to happen.”
“
I am a proponent of advancing the reputation of Georgia State University ... but I am not in support of teams that have 100 students that get to travel to Cairo…
“
Continued from page 1
-SGA Adviser Dr. Eric Blacknall
Students back Sunday alcohol sales JOEY NEELY Staff Writer
The passing of a referendum on Sunday alcohol sales last week in Atlanta came with little surprise to many Georgia State students. The Nov. 8 vote, which carried more than 80 percent of the vote, lifted a previous ban that prevented retail vendors from selling alcoholic beverages on Sundays. The law preventing Sunday alcohol sales, except in restaurants, was a quintessential example of so-called “blue laws,” or laws meant to enforce religious standards, according to Jenny Nesvetailova, a junior at Georgia State. “Allowing alcohol to be sold on Sunday creates a separation between church and state, which should have been there all along,” Nesvetailova said. She said she did not mind buying her wine a day early but felt the principle behind the fact should be addressed. Other students agreed but on
separate points. “I’m all in favor of being able to buy alcohol on Sundays,” explained Stephanie Swanson, a senior at Georgia State. “Especially if I want to have a fun picnic at Piedmont Park.” Despite local support inside metro Atlanta, the vote attracted major opposition from some religious figures and rural areas. For instance, the Georgia Christian Coalition opposed the vote, claiming that allowing Sunday alcohol sales would undignify the Sabbath. The city of Atlanta can expect to start buying alcohol on Jan. 1 of next year. The city of Duluth will actually be able to purchase booze on Nov. 19th. Statewide, the vote passed in over 110 cities and counties with only a few outliers in rural counties opposing, including Albany, Americus, Brunswick, Fort Oglethorpe, Waycross and Whitfield County. Georgia was one of three states in the United States that still banned alcohol sales on Sundays, a law that had been around since the early 1800s.
SGA Round up
SGA to recommend changing courtyard concert policy Chris shattuck News Editor
The most continuous issue discussed at the Student Government Association meeting was its recommendation of moving the concert series held in the courtyard every Tuesday and Thursday. Ben Williams, vice president of student life, raised the issue by saying the amount of students in the courtyard during the times of 12 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. on those days presented a serious safety concern for students. ”Let’s say there is radio equipment on the stage and it catches fire,” Williams said. “What’s going to happen? Worst case scenario we’re going to have several GSU students die because the university did not act.” Senators Kenneth Golden and Taylor Briggs raised questions over how to get people away from the courtyard despite the historic tradition of outdoor concerts in the area. President James Dutton asked whether the space in front of the library could be redesigned to allow greater space for students passing through. Williams countered that structural and funding problems would probably prevent a total re-design. While Williams conceded that moving the concert series elsewhere would likely face considerable amount of student opposition, he said the SGA should hear from a wide
03
NEWS | THE SIGNAL
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2011
variety of students before making its recommendation. “It would be a tremendous shift for the university and something that some students are going to oppose, but sometimes there are times where we have to evaluate what’s best for the majority and what’s best for the minority,” Williams said. To get better student opinions on the subject, Senator Rashaad Owens motioned for a town hall meeting with students to determine how to proceed. Discussion of campus police response In his officer report, vice president of public relations for the SGA, Jarell Abrams, said he would be writing a letter addressed to the Georgia State University Police Department to deal with perceived failures by the department in responding to emergencies. He said that he witnessed a woman suffer a seizure in class last Tuesday, but police took approximately 20 minutes to respond after problems in answering the campus alert phone. Abrams expressed safety concerns for other students that suffer from various diseases or handicaps. As someone with diabetes, he said he would be worried that if he went into shock, no one would be available to help him. Abrams also encouraged other SGA members to file complaints with Information Systems
and Technologies and the GSUPD to address response issues, not counting the latest spike in robberies last month. “I don’t think the campus police [are] adequately doing their job,” Abrams said. “And this has to be addressed.” VP Paul Marmol to resign SGA vice president of Budget and Finance Paul Marmol will be resigning his position, effective Jan. 1. Marmol said he would be accepting an internship with the London office of Deloitte, an auditing and accounting firm, next spring. President James Dutton said the position would be open to everyone that filled out an application but that the Executive board highly encouraged “leadership development” from Senators already in the SGA. “Anyone who wants to try and fill that vacancy will have to turn in an application just like a vacant senator application. I’ll have to interview those folks and figure out who’s best and take that to the EBoard,” Dutton said. “Then we’ll bring that to you all.” SGA now in charge of new student organization, mid-year SAFC money Following the conclusion of the SGA Senate meeting, the Executive Board called a separate meeting for only its members.
In the meeting, they discussed the new application process for mid-year Student Activity Fee applications for University Wide and Diversity programs, which will now be managed by the SGA until the end of the year. VP Williams estimated that the SGA would be swarmed with an “exorbitant amount” of applications from Diversity organizations, since he said, “they were all underfunded.” The E-Board then voted to make a deadline of Dec. 2 for Diversity and University Wide organizations to send in applications for funding. The SGA was also given $5,000 dollars to allocate to new student organizations chartered during the FY2011-FY2012 academic year. Mega One Stop Shop petition nearing completion The petition to move the Mega One Stop Shop to open the week before the beginning of each semester has almost reached its goal of 1,000 signatures, said vice president of Academic Affairs Marcus Kernizan. Kernizan said that he hopes to send a final email with the completed petition to the university administration before next week. The final SGA meeting of the semester will be held on Thursday, Dec. 8 at 7 p.m. in the Sinclair Suite in the Student Center.
CAMPUS CRIME November 10 Decatur St.
A report was filed for Theft of Bicycle. The complainant, a GSU student stated, at 12:00 p.m. she noticed her bicycle was missing. The case is being handled by Investigations.
Poplar St.
A report was filed Theft of Bicycle. The complainant, a GSU student stated, at 8:45 p.m. he noticed his bicycle was missing. The case is being handled by Investigations.
General Classroom Building
Officers issued a Non-GSU individual a Criminal Trespass Warning. At 4:41 p.m. officers observed the individual enter the building and when officers questioned the individual he became loud and confrontational. He was issued a C.T.W. and was escorted off campus without incident.
November 9 Library Plaza
Officers arrested a Non-GSU individual for Robbery by Sudden Snatching. At 8:20 p.m. a GSU student advised officers that she was approached from the behind by two unknown individuals and one of them snatched her Apple I-Phone and ran from the area. One of the suspects was apprehend after a brief foot chase. Offices confirmed the individual was a juvenile and he was process and released to a family member.
General Classroom Building
A report was filed for Theft. The complainant, a GSU student stated, at 9:52 a.m. she noticed her purse containing various items was missing. The case is being handled by Investigations. Officers issued a Non-GSU individual a Criminal Trespass Warning. At 10:30 a.m. officers observed the individual enter and exit various buildings multiple times. Officers then observed the individual attempting to look into student’s bags. He was issued a C.T.W. and was escorted off campus without incident.
Student Center
A report was filed for Fraud. The complainant, a GSU student stated, on 11/06/11 at 11:59 p.m. an unauthorized debit card transaction occurred at the Student Center. The case is being handled by Investigations.
Haas Howell Building
A report was filed for Theft. The complainant, a GSU staff member stated, at 3:15 p.m. he noticed a GSU issued laptop computer was missing. The case is being handled by Investigations.
Auburn Ave./Equitable Place
SPLC, university officials respond to student journalist arrests which these journalists were cited consisted entirely of ‘obstructing traffic’ on a street that police themselves closed to traffic,” LoMonte said. In response to the SPLC letter, Georgia State and Kennesaw State University’s student media advisors Bryce McNeil and Ed Bonza also issued a statement to the mayor expressing “strong disagreement with your department’s arrests of student journalists.” “What is both insulting and disturbing about the matter is that at least one student journalist was informed that she did not enjoy the same rights accorded to the members of ’professional’ media,” the letter said. “Regardless of whether one considers student media ‘real media,’ the law considers it such.” Four days after Kim and the others were released, representatives from the mayor’s office is-
“
Regardless of whether one considers student media ‘real media,’ the law considers it such.
“
Continued from page 1
-Dr. Bryce McNeil and Ed Bonza
sued a statement much like the one already offered by Carlos Campos, the public affairs manager for the Atlanta Police Department.“The Atlanta Police Department has always tried to work cooperatively and respectfully with the news media, and will continue to do so,” said Sonja Jacobs, director of communications for the mayor’s office. “The department was not targeting journalists or any other particular group. All violators were arrested. The APD’s focus was to clear the streets in the interest of public safety, both for pedestrians
and motorists alike.” The Georgia Press Association, who also received copies of the SPLC and respective student media advisors’ letters to the Mayor respects the rights of student journalists and hopes Atlanta law enforcement will treat them the same. “Georgia Press Association supports the rights of all journalists to gather news and report it to the public as one of the cornerstones of a free and democratic society.” “While we appreciate the difficult jobs that the police have, we urge them to recognize that journalists -- students or not -- who work within the law to report on events of public interest are also doing their jobs.” Besides their initial statements, the Atlanta Police Department and Mayor Reed have yet to respond to requests cited in both letters that investigations should be administered to discover more about the nature of the arrests.
A report was filed for Robbery by Sudden Snatching. The complainant, a GSU student stated, at 4:00 p.m. an unknown individual approached him from the behind and snatched his Apple I-Pad and ran from the area. There were no injuries reported. The case is being handled by Investigations.
November 8 Piedmont Ave.
Officers issued a Non-GSU individual a Criminal Trespass Warning. At 10:54 a.m. officers observed the individual loitering in front of the University Commons and confirmed he had an active C.T.W. He was arrested, processed and transported to Fulton County Jail.
University Center
A report was filed for Theft. The complainant, a GSU staff member stated, at 2:40 p.m. he observed an unknown male enter the bookstore on video and take (6) Memorex Memory Cards and exit the store without paying. The case is being handled by Investigations.
November 7 Student Center
Officers arrested two Non-GSU individuals for Theft by Taking, Trespass for Unlawful Purpose and Intentionally Aids in the Commission of the Crime. At 1:11 p.m. officers were advised two individuals approached a GSU student and asker her a question attempting to distract her when two other individuals approached her from both sides and one of them snatched her laptop computer off of the table. Officers apprehended two of the suspects that were identified by the victim. They were arrested, processed and transported to Fulton County Jail.
NOW HIRING!
{
Writers Photographers Designers Illustrators
{
Invaluable experience not found in classrooms Training opportunities at conventions around the country
Join The Signal today and find out how you can get a head start on your journalism career. The opportunity to be compensated for your work A chance to win awards for your work
To apply go to:
www.gsusignal.com/applications!
megabus.com Safe. Convenient. Affordable.
$1 From
*plus 50 ¢ booking fe
e
Free WiFi! Power Outlets! Online Booking!
Announcing daily, express bus service to/from Atlanta & 11 cities • Birmingham, Ala. • Charlotte, NC • Chattanooga, TN • Gainesville, FL • Jacksonville, FL • Knoxville, TN
• Memphis • Mobile, AL • Montgomery, AL • Nashville • Orlando
$1 Fares! Book early to get yours!
OPINIONS
z ONLINE: READ THE FULL LETTER FROM THE
STUDENT PRESS LAW CENTER, ALONG WITH GEORGIA STATE AND KENNESAW STATE’S LETTER TO THE MAYOR’S OFFICE
www.gsusignal.com/opinions
From the Editorial Board The Signal has covered The Student Government Association quite a bit these past few semesters. When we heard from the SGA that Georgia State would be providing a 24-hour service the week before finals to study we could not wait to share the news. The Signal will be joining students during the week before finals, Nov. 28 to Dec. 1 in the Freshmen Dining Hall to study for 24 hours in finals weeks. The SGA and The Office of the Provost urged the university to open the hall from 12 a.m. to 6 a.m. Both SGA and The Provost are putting funds together to provide appropriate security and also some free food for the late night studiers. The Signal appreciates that the SGA and the Provost have taken steps towards having 24-hour services here at Georgia State. We would have loved to hear that the school was going to extend library hours for a week to 24 hours, but the cost concerns for that were too high for the school. Along with the library, The MILE and Aderhold Learning Center were both considered as possible places to hold extended hours. While we are taking the first steps into having more 24-hour services, we are fairly far behind compared to Georgia Institute of Technology. Georgia Tech currently offers 24-hour library services Monday through Thursday all semester long. They also offer a dining hall on North Avenue, which is open 24-hours Monday through Thursday as well. This would be a good goal for Georgia State to set. Being such a large research university, Georgia State could easily attain this goal in the near future. Cost is going to be the biggest obstacle, but the benefits for students will be so tremendous. And while football is one way to compete with the large schools surrounding us like Georgia Tech and University of Georgia. it would be in the school’s best interest to offer more services directly to the students, especially a service that benefits the student’s studies. So, save the date, Nov. 28 to Dec. 1, the Freshmen Dining Hall will be open from 12 a.m. to 6 a.m. for all student with free food provided.
FROM THE EDITORIAL BOARD reflects the majority opinion of the Editorial Board of The Signal, but not necessarily the opinions of individual editors
Making our mark on Atlanta
Chris Shattuck News Editor
Amidst the towering skyscrapers and high-rise buildings that surround our campus, sometimes it can be easy to get overwhelmed in the “concrete jungle” that Georgia State calls home. As a school, we seem to keep buying all sorts of property downtown, which is great, but sometimes it’s hard to tell where our campus ends and the rest of the city continues. That’s our problem. So, as the university looks to rebrand its image into the cultural and architectural heart of Atlanta through the use of strategic plans and roadway rights, it’s important that Georgia State also keeps attractive, safe green space within its thoughts, in addition to the big-picture logistical problems it faces in how to expand. Consider our best and most preeminent model just a few miles north on I-75/85 for inspiration. Nestled between midtown and downtown Atlanta, Georgia Institute of Technology has an absolutely superb looking campus that is distinctly marked from the rest of its surroundings yet perfectly integrated into the community. Indeed, when you cross over the 10th Street Bridge, there is no mistaking that you have entered onto a truly beautiful college campus with its own cultural flavor. Tech should be our aspiration for what our campus should look like. While Georgia State certainly has its own unique downtown flavor, which it should be rightly proud of, one thing it desperately needs is a clearly defined image like Tech’s, apparent to both students and visitors alike. For us to succeed in the long term, Georgia State needs to become synonymous for what an “urban institution” should look like. We need to be the “go-to” example for other schools, not the other way around. Forget the plastic, faux brick crosswalks the administration seems so proud of. Those look cheap and hideous. Further, give them a few years and they
will, without question, look even worse than right now once they our covered in the filth and grime that a busy city street must inevitably weather. Consider the example of the “decorative crosswalks” at the intersection of Piedmont Avenue and Decatur Street. Within just a few weeks of being laid down, the city of Atlanta repaved a lane right above the crosswalk, making it look even worse. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that something similar will happen again in the future, especially when the university seems to want to go hog wild and put them all over campus. Now consider just Decatur Street with a closer eye towards making the campus a better place than usual. With that fresh mindset, I’m certain you will notice something distinctly askew. Between the freshly paved patches of concrete on the side of the road, patches of dirt and bare soil mar the potential appearance of what could be a more handsome college campus. Now, I don’t claim to know which trees would be best suited to place there or even if the bare spaces are the fault of the university or the city, but I do know that something needs to be done there if we are to take our constantly evolving image seriously. The university should be commended for incorporating some green-scape into its expansion of the sidewalks between the Urban Life Building and the Recreation Center along Piedmont Avenue, but other elements of our campus can also incorporate additional green space, in addition to just Decatur Street. While we have some great city parks around campus, they are sullied by other elements of urban life that make the parks unfriendly to use, especially after sundown. The specter of crime and the trepidation of being harassed by the homeless haunt some from actively using the parks to their fullest. These are serious issues that must be addressed, otherwise we risk scaring off the best and the brightest potential students from ever coming back, assuming they come to visit in the first place. While these problems likely require solutions much larger than planting a few trees or increasing police patrols, they are reasonable problems that must be addressed for the long-term growth of our school as it makes its transition from an urban commuter school to a more traditional college. Still, they are issues that must be addressed, no matter how hard, in order for the school to continue to succeed and grow out of its proverbial roots. Indeed, in the words of Kermit the Frog: “It’s not easy being green.”
Crime on campus: day or night
THE SIGNAL Editorial Board Miranda Sain, Editor in Chief • Mishall Rehman, Managing Editor • Chris Shattuck, News Editor • Sebastian Wee, Associate News Editor • Angel White, Campus Life Editor • Saakib Zafrani, Sports Editor • D.J. Dunson, Associate Sports Editor • Brooke Marshall, Entertainment Editor •Paul Demerritt, Associate Entertainment Editor • Bennett Greer, Production Editor • Aysha Johnson, Assistant Production Editor • Brittany Williams, Online Editor • Savanna Keo, Copy Editor • Miles Keenlyside, Copy Editor • Alicia Johnson, Copy Editor • Judy Kim, Photography Editor
Savanna Keo Copy Editor
The recent time change has really messed up my schedule. I’m not suffering from seasonal jet lag or anything like that. I’ve got backto-back classes until 7 p.m. and by then, it’s uncomfortably dark outside. Maybe I shouldn’t park my car in a lot all the way on J.W. Dobbs Avenue, but as a struggling college student with a whole laundry list of things that must be paid for, I’ve got to scrimp and save on any dollars I can. Before it wasn’t a problem – I had time to stop and talk after class and then saunter to my car comfortably. Now, as soon as class lets out, I bolt to my car. I am afraid of the dark. Actually, I’m just a bit paranoid that I will become the next unfortunate soul whose sto
Continued on next page
06
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2011
opinions | THE SIGNAL
Racism is absurd but reverse racism is ok?
Brittany Spornhauer Staff Writer
The term “reverse racism” may be unfamiliar to some, so to ensure this article is understood to its full extent, the term will be defined prior to any opinion being stated. “Reverse racism” can be defined as a term that describes the outcome of a group of people that try to protect a minority group so aggressively that it actually leads to hypocrisy. Although this topic may be considered a controversial one, the issue exists whether people want to admit it or not. Not only does it exist but I have seen this term illustrated in the hallways of Georgia State. As a matter of fact, the purpose of this article is to call attention to this issue and serve as an eye opener to anyone who chooses to read further. This term never occurred to me until I experienced it myself. I was unaware there was even a descriptor designated to this topic. However, when I entered college I began to notice different student organizations that were geared toward a specific racial or ethnic group. At first, I did not think twice about the idea. As I looked in to various groups to become affiliated with, I was stunned to see student organizations aimed at only one race or one ethnic background. I do not understand how it is ok for a flyer on a bulletin board in Georgia State’s hallway to read “1st Annual Black Student Film Festival.” Posters such as these really strike a nerve in me, and just for clarity, I have no qualms with any race, ethnic background or religion for that matter. I am a well-rounded individual with a diverse circle of friends. My issue lies within these posters, organizations and overall societal behaviors that are acceptable for a minority group but not acceptable for a group that is the majority.
This hypocrisy stems from the fear of possibly offending another race, but instead of ensuring equality and fairness, the aforementioned fear causes a shift in societal norms. Referring back to this poster, if this poster was altered slightly in the favor of the race that makes up the majority of the campus, it would most likely be received as racist. I am not aware of any event geared toward only white students, because this would be offensive. This mentality can also be seen through the student organizations that are offered at Georgia State. There are actually more than 300 student organizations on campus that range widely in variety. Although many of the multi-cultural organizations strive to educate others about their culture and are open to all Georgia State students, some are slightly less inviting. For example, the African Students Association “was established to foster and enhance the intellectual and socio-cultural development of its members through educational and socio-cultural activities,” according to the synopsis given on the university’s website. If the idea is to promote diversity and enhance intellectual and socio-cultural development, why is this organization aimed solely at African American Students? What is even more mind blowing is the organization’s “purpose statement” that also appears on the website. The statement explains that the purpose is “To unite all Africans on the Georgia State University campus together and create a powerful force on the campus that educates the Georgia State family on the different cultures found within Africa.” There are no statements to be found welcoming all students. Another organization, National Council of Negro Women, demonstrates similar ethnocentricity in their synopsis stating, “NCNW Inc; is a non-profit organization which strives to uplift, lead, develop and advocate for women of African descent through programs, socials and community service.” Shouldn’t this organization just be called, National Council of Women if it is open to all students regardless? However, the organization’s description does not state this. Not to mention, if the organization had a name such as, “National Council of Caucasian Women” this would be perceived as racist. Although the diverse and multi-cultured nature of Georgia State would obviously prompt the need to have a wide range of student organizations, I feel that some have gone too far and definitely demonstrate reverse racism, which destroys the moral fibers of the human race.
Continued from previous page ry is described in emails dispersed to all Georgia State accounts and plastered on doors around campus. I’m scared of being mugged on a campus that boasts of the most excellent college police department in the entire state. Why is this? There have been a recent string of thefts and robberies lately, including those that can be found in the Crime Blotter and updated on the police website but aren’t as widely publicized in the form of Panther Alerts. Aside from the stolen laptops and phones, some of the most recent Panther Alerts reported have become increasingly violent. One guy was pushed to the ground before his wallet was emptied out and another innocent inthe-wrong-place-at-the-wrong-time bystander was choked and kicked before having his items stolen. That is a bit ridiculous. Even more ridiculous is when you consider that there are more than 100 people, including certified officers and security personnel, working for the Georgia State University Police Department. If the department has the manpower to exert a more formidable presence on campus, why does heavy crime continue to increase? I understand that we are going to school in downtown Atlanta and that there can’t always be a cop on every corner patrolling every min-
ute of the day. That’s just not a feasible option. If the campus patrol can establish their presence more heavily on campus, then the occurrence of thieves and robberies may be abated. The other day I walked past the Student Center on my way to class. Two young kids ran past me and I thought nothing of it until they were across the street and I heard a girl yell, “Stop them! They stole my laptop!” I became, regrettably, just another face in the masses that stood idly by as a crime was committed right in front of me. Hundreds of students, not one flinched. Instead of pelting the thieves with various slanderous indiscretions, she turned on the crowd and chastised them for their inaction. Maybe it’s too much to ask for an environment in which everyone is looking out for others, especially on a campus like Georgia State that seems prone to thefts and attacks. Or maybe it is a bit naive to think that no other student would want to be, or could even afford, to have their stuff snatched up and have to fork over the cash to replace the stolen item. Until we can create a climate that deters thieves from committing crimes on our campus, I anticipate another slew of Panther Alerts to hit my inbox. Especially since it gets dark so damn early now.
Student
Vox
your voice • your opinions
What does Occupy Atlanta mean to you?
“Absolutely nothing. Just a bunch of people wasting their time that should be studying or getting a job or actually learning what cause they’re going against, because most of them don’t know.” Alexandar Borissov Major: Film
“I feel like it’s a good thing, because I feel like people need to protest, because if people don’t protest nothing will get done. Throughout history, if people wouldn’t have protested things wouldn’t have gotten changed and accomplished, so I think it’s a positive thing.” Carmen Harris Major: Film and Video
“It’s definitely about individuality and about having the government separate from a lot of our individual decisions. It’s protecting the individual.” Devan Pinckney Major: Sociology
“I feel like the people that are protesting out there, they’re not going to make a difference. They think that being out there is going to change their status and their life, but honestly, it’s up to them to do something about their own life.” Jean Pierepaiva Major: Business Economics
These are strange times
Terah Boyd Staff Writer
In this day of economic uncertainty, education continues to rise in costs while it loses relevance by the day. This poses the question: if the college student has no voice, what do we have left? This same sentiment is seen with the current Occupy movement here in Atlanta. Honestly, I’m sure you may have your reservations about the “occupy” movement in our country. I do too. But, I am fed up. If someone is fed up and vocal about it, I have nothing but overdue respect for them. Our nation is broke. The only solution we are presented with is bureaucratic banter from wax-faced “cable news regulars” that
at their broken-record-best, rely on past and present presidential failings as their soapbox. The current system has offered no solutions. Others don’t have a strong message, but I am almost pissed off enough to sleep in a park to voice my two cents too. The language and rhetoric that is the foundation for our nation is something of Hollywood romanticism these days. Who stands up for their cause? Who loses everything for the opportunity to bite at the bit that could be freedom and a voice? These kids, the ones occupying our parks and financial districts… yes, their organization could be flawed. They have a unified voice on many unified messages that may or may not be heard by The Crown,I mean Congress, or Mr. President, (whoever that may be in a yearish). I hope your voice, which is questioned, and at times forgotten by the gate keepers of mainstream media, is not forgotten or written off in the hearts of the American people. You are saying what we are thinking. You may be providing unconventional means for your message to flourish, and it will be lost on many. I am frustrated at the lack of cohesiveness, unity and leadership (nationally) that has challenged this movement and thus challenged our government. In a more “orthodox” United States of America, you should have a small army of voted officials on your side. I hope your “mixed” messages unify many.
07
OPINIONS | THE SIGNAL
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2011
Want to write for
The Signal? Go to www.gsusignal/applications! We are looking for photographers and illustrators too!
THE STAFF SIGNAL edItOR IN ChIef
Miranda Sain signaleditor@gmail.com Sabastian Wee sabwee0615@gmail.com Mishall Rehman signalmanaging@gmail.com
SeNIOR edItOR MaNaGING edItOR NeWS edItOR
Chris Shattuck signalnewseditor@gmail.com
CaMPUS lIfe edItOR
angel White signalliving@gmail.com Saakib Zafrani thesignalsport@gmail.com
SPORtS edItOR aSSOCIate SPORtS edItOR
d.J. dunson dunsondj@gmail.com eNteRtaINMeNt edItOR Brooke Marshall signalentertainment@gmail.com aSSOCIate eNteRtaINMeNt edItOR Paul demerritt pdemerritt1@student.gsu.edu PROdUCtION edItOR Bennett Greer signalprod@gmail.com aSSIStaNt PROdUCtION edItOR PhOtOGRaPhY edItOR ONlINe edItOR COPY/OPINION edItORS
The Signal is on Facebook
adveRtISING COORdINatOR CIRCUlatION MaNaGeR OffICe aSSIStaNtS
StUdeNt MedIa advISOR
and Twitter Like and Follow us for breaking news and important sports updates
aysha Johnson signalprod2@gmail.com Judy kim judithkim92@yahoo.com Brittany Williams signalwebsite@gmail.com Savanna keo Miles keenlyside alicia Johnson signalopinions@gmail.com Joey Commander jcommander1@student.gsu.edu Phillip Masci signaldistribution@gmail.com Jared Cate Brianna alvarez Sean dias Bryce McNeil bmcneil1@gsu.edu
MISSION StateMeNt
The Signal shall provide, in a fair and accurate manner, news of interest and significance to the Georgia State University community and serve as a forum for the expression of ideas of members of that community. Furthermore, The Signal shall provide an opportunity for students to pursue experience within a professional newspaper environment. The Signal shall also provide truthful and ethical advertising of interest to the Georgia State University community.
adveRtISING
The deadline for all advertising is 5 p.m. on the Tuesday prior to the desired issue of publication. Ads must be print-ready and in PDF format; files must be delivered via e-mail at signalads@langate.gsu. edu. Please visit our website at www.gsusignal.com/advertising for more information, including rates and payment methods.
COveRaGe ReQUeStS
Requests for coverage and tips should be submitted to the Editor in Chief and/or the relevant section editor.
letteRS tO the edItOR
The following guidelines must be followed when submitting a Letter to the Editor. Failure to follow them will result in your letter not being considered for publication.
The following guidelines must be followed when submitting a letter to the editor. Failure to follow them will result in your letter not being considered for publication.
SUBMIT A LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Letters must be submitted to the Opinions Editors via email and must include the text of the letter in the body of the message. Letters should be 200-400 words maximum. The Signal will allow longer letters, but only in rare circumstances. Letters must include the full name(s) of the writer(s) and include their year and major. If the writer is a faculty member, they must include their title and department. Letters will be fact-checked prior to publication. The writer may be obligated to make changes to the letter for publication. Letters will be edited for grammar, clarity, length, factual accuracy and adherence to Signal policy. The Signal reserves the right to modify and/or reject letters at the discretion of the editorial staff.
Letters must be submitted to the Opinions Editors via e-mail and must include the text of the letter in the body of the message. Letters should be 200-400 words maximum. The Signal will allow longer letters, but only in rare circumstances. Letters must include the full name(s) of the writer(s) and include their year and major. If the writer is a faculty member, they must include their title and department. Letters will be fact-checked prior to publication. The writer may be obligated to make changes to the letter for publication. Letters will be edited for grammar, clarity, length, factual accuracy and adherence to Signal policy. The Signal reserves the right to modify and/or reject letters at the discretion of the editorial staff.
Staff POSItIONS
The Signal accepts applications for staff writers and photographers throughout the year; additional available positions will be listed at www.gsu.edu/studentmedia. If you are interested in working with The Signal, please fill out an application (available in our offices or online at www.gsusignal.com/applications) and return it to Bryce McNeil, Student Media Advisor, in the Office of Student Activities (Suite 330, Student Center).
OffICe INfORMatION
The Signal Suite 200, University Center • P.O. Box 3968 • Atlanta, GA 30303 Phone: 404-413-1620 • Fax: 404-413-1622 • Web: www.gsusignal.com
SPORTS
z ONLINE: FINAL FOOTBALL GAME
OF THE SEASON PREVIEW (PANTHERS VS. CAMELS)
www.gsusignal.com/sports
The evolution of a center and a program Anytime there’s a changing of the guard at the head coaching position, growing pains are expected. However, Georgia State center and block specialist, James Vincent, said he feels that the 2011-2012 season will have a lot of the growth without so much of the pains. With the hiring of Ron Hunter, Vincent is sensing a new morale among his teammates, and the expectations of creating a winning culture are beginning to spread through the program. “I see a whole lot of change,” Vincent said. “My team, we’ve always been hyped up, but I’ve never seen them this hyped before. It’s a whole new experience with them now. They’re ready to go to practice, ready for the games, [and] they’re not nervous. They’re just straight and cool, and they just enjoy themselves now. They’re actually having fun.” This new team-wide attitude isn’t just for show. Georgia State and Vincent are expecting it to spread to their performance on the court this year. A repeat of the Panthers 12-19 campaign of last year is unacceptable. “We have an expectation of going really high in the tournament and actually [coming] out with the trophy,” Vincent said. “The whole team feels the same way. We feel like we can go further than we did last year and actually break our old tradition and become a winning team.” The change won’t be limited to a shift in mental philosophy. Coach Hunter brings a whole new style of offense to the table. Hunter’s offensive style is a runand-gun similar to the Amare Stoudemire/Steve Nash era Phoenix
Suns, fitting considering Stoudemire was Vincent’s childhood hero who he modeled his game after. This means a focus on layups and threes, and it means that Vincent and the rest of the team have been doing lots and lots of running in order to gain the stamina to perform this offense properly. “It’s a whole lot different because it’s faster,” Vincent said. “Last year under coach [Rod] Barnes, we were more of a take it easy, slow down and see what you got type team, but that’s a whole different thing.” While changing the gameplay style ,Vincent has focused on his own personal evolution to keep up with it. “My role, I have to be a dominant force in the post because most of our offense runs inside out,” Vincent said. “So I have to do more of my post game. I’ve gotten faster thanks to coach Hunter’s running, a whole lot of running really. I’m a whole lot quicker on my feet, and I’m jumping higher. I’m a lot stronger than I used to be so my role down there has to be a force to be reckoned with down in the post. So I have to do a lot more than usual.” Vincent averaged 3 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game last season in limited minutes but has shown the potential to be a key and maybe the most dominant, post player on the Georgia State roster. Vincent’s conditioning and willingness to embrace his role in the new offensive philosophy Hunter has brought to the team, has all the makings of a breakout 2011-2012 season for the big man. “There’s no school on my schedule that I’m not hyped to play against. They’re all very good teams, and I’m ready for a challenge.”
Gary Brittain | Dominion Photo
Vincent averaged 3 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game last season but will be a much more integral part of Hunter’s offense this season. Vincent’s favorite player is Amare Stoudemire of the New York Knicks.
#22 James Vincent Paul Abell | Abell Images
Dylan Rice Staff Writer
Position: Height: Weight: Year: Hometown: High School:
Center 6’10” 267 Junior Columbus, Ga. Northside HS
10
sports | THE SIGNAL
Panthers’ fourth quarter woes continue
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2011
Sports Calendar Friday, Nov. 18 – Sunday, Nov. 20 Volleyball CAA Tournament Northeastern // All Day
Friday, Nov. 18 Men’s Basketball vs. McNeese State GSU Sports Arena // 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 19 Saakib Zafrani | The Signal
Dylan Rice Staff Writer
Georgia State’s disastrous season continued on Saturday as a 3023 loss to West Alabama dropped its record to an embarrassing 2-8. Georgia State managed to outgain UWA 447 to 388, but failure to protect the football and execute, resulted in key turnovers and unsuccessful red zone visits. “We were down inside the 10, four times in the second half and came away with nothing, and if you do that, you’re going to get beat,” head coach Bill Curry told Athletics. “We fought valiantly, and we did a lot of good things on both sides of the ball, but ball security is the most important factor in football.” UWA scored with little over two minutes left in the fourth quarter to take a 30-23 lead over Georgia State, but Panthers quarterback Kelton Hill answered with a drive that brought Georgia State into the red zone. Hill hit Nathaniel Minor for a would-be 8-yard completion to UWA’s 17, but Minor lost the han-
dle, insuring another heart breaking loss. With not much more to play for than pride, Hill had a record setting day. With starting running back Donald Russell in uniform but injured and Paris Lee and Travis Evans sidelined in the third quarter with injuries of their own, Hill stepped up and set the school rushing record with 152 yards, as well as two touchdowns. Despite the stellar stat line, Hill wasn’t exempt from the carelessness with the football that plagued the entire team. He threw for 228 yards and a touchdown but also had two interceptions. On a run where a score seemed all but inevitable, with Georgia State down 23-16, Hill killed all momentum when he fumbled the ball on the 2-yard line. Earlier in the game Georgia State was down 10-0, and a blowout seemed to be looming. But Hill threw a 33-yard touchdown pass to Albert Wilson to get on the board. Not too long after, Hill once again managed to keep his team in the game with an electric 53-yard
touchdown run to bring Georgia State in striking distance with a 1714 deficit. With a combination of thrilling plays and costly mental errors, Hill was eerily reminiscent of a certain pro quarterback that use to take snaps under center in the Atlanta area. Defensively, Georgia State was fairly successful of containing freshman quarterback Kyle Caldwell’s arm, limiting him to 166 yards and a touchdown, with two key interceptions. However, they continued to allow big yards on the ground. UWA running back Matthew Willis piled up 171 yards and two touchdowns, and the team total was 222 yards. Next Saturday will be the last game of Georgia State’s sophomore slump, when they take on Campbell at home. Campbell will enter the Georgia Dome with a 6-4 record, so another loss could be on the horizon for Georgia State, which would be a fitting way to end a season that has been beyond disappointing for fans and athletes alike.
Football vs. Campbell Georgia Dome // 2:00 p.m.
Monday, Nov. 21 Women’s Basketball at Florida State Tallahassee, Fla. // 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 22 Men’s Basketball at Samford Birmingham, Ala. // 8:00 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 25 - Saturday, Nov. 26 Women’s Basketball- GSU Thanksgiving Classic GSU Sports Arena // 2:00 PM
Thursday, Dec. 1 Men’s Basketball vs.Florida International Sports Arena 7:00 PM
Volleyball heads into CAA tournament Zakkiyya Anderson Staff Writer
The Georgia State volleyball team will advance to the Colonial Athletic Association tournament tied for the fourth seed as they finish their season 14-7 and 6-8 in the CAA. The Panthers lost to top-seeded Northeastern Friday night in five sets and defeated Hoftsra on Sunday 3-1 in the Senior Day game. Northeastern, who is tied for the top seed in the conference, took out the Panthers 25-23, 21-25, 16-25, 25-15 and 15-11. The Huskies claimed the first set after being up 19-8 early, despite allowing the Panthers to come within two. The Panthers then went on to claim the next two sets, going up 2-1 in the match. Vineece Verdun and Andrea Noe both recorded several crucial kills in the set, which overall led to a .522 attack percentage on the day. The Huskies then went on a
roll and claimed the next two sets and eased into the victory at the Georgia State Sports Arena. Both teams traded kills throughout the fifth and final set, but ultimately Northeastern was able to beat Georgia State. The Panthers redeemed themselves with a win against Hostra in their final home match of the regular season in four sets 26-24, 18-25, 25-22 and 25-16. Seniors Verdun, Muki Kangwa, Chelsea Perry, Mirjam Pfyl and Nevena Peeva all contributed in the victory. Verdun and Kangwa each had 10 kills a piece on the day, their final home game of their collegiate careers. With the win, the Panthers join James Madison and Virginia Commonwealth University in a tie for fourth place in the conference. This is the first postseason appearance for Georgia State since 2005. “It was great to be with my sisters one last time on my home court,” Verdun told Georgia State Athletics. “I’m so grateful to have
had the opportunity to play with [this team] and for a great coach like Tami.” Verdun was recently named Academic All-District. The Panthers came out strong and claimed the first two sets but in the third set allowed Hofstra to boast a win of its own. Georgia State used a tenacious defense and a .500 attack percentage to finish out the fourth set to claim the match. “We knew what the results were going to mean today, helping to get to a higher seed in the CAA tournament,” head coach Tami Audia told Georgia State Athletics. Delaware, who has won three of past four CAA titles, nabbed the number one spot in the conference. The Blue Hens erased Northeastern from the tie for first by sweeping the Huskies in the regular season. Georgia State will play James Madison in the quarterfinals in Newark, Delaware on Barbara Viera Court on Nov. 18.
The Panthers beat James Madison earlier this season 3-1.
Graham Robson | The Signal
Senior Vineece Verdun recorded 10 kill shots in the final home game of her collegiate career. Verdun was also awarded Academic All-District honors.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2011
11
sports | THE SIGNAL
Occupy: Georgia Dome
DJ Dunson Associate Sports Editor
During an up and down season, I expected better inside the Georgia Dome. Instead we’ve witnessed a constant barrage of letdowns from the Georgia State Panthers football team—and from the students. Instead. Two weeks ago, as I sat on a packed shuttle from Turner Field, one energetic driver asked if anyone was going to the next home game. One guy replied that he was a Florida fan, another rolled his eyes and said he would be there in spirit. I take it that he misunderstood the meaning of school spirit. Not one person spoke up during the awkward silence. It sounded like the student section during a typical home game.
It’s not just the fans, it’s the intensity that’s missing as well. The few students that do show up for games look like they’re waiting in line at the DMV.
“
“
Last year, we patted ourselves on the back for drawing 30,000 to our inaugural game, however, on Sept. 3, the University of Texas at San Antonio attracted 57,000 fans to its inaugural game. It was 8,000 more than South Florida’s inaugural attendance record of 49,000 in 1998. On the night of the Panthers’ inaugural football game, 11,000 students showed up. However, there were moments during the last home game against St. Francis when it seemed cheerleaders and band members outnumbered stu-
dents. In the fourth quarter, teams often rely on the energy of the home crowd. Its no coincidence that the Panthers have been outscored 4513 in the fourth quarter at home and the only two wins have come during the most highly attended games. Despite a spike in student attendance at homecoming, it was unbelievable to watch students walking up out of the Dome during South Alabama’s game-tying, fourth quarter drive. For a decade, Georgia State students clamored for a football team. However, instead of embracing what students before us could only dream of, you’ve abandoned the team on Saturday’s. The athletic department even moved kickoff times from noon to later in the afternoon. In the midst of a disappointing 2-7 campaign, at least Georgia Tech, Georgia Southern and UGA fans would have the courtesy to show up and boo. It’s not just the fans, it’s the intensity that’s missing as well. The few students that do show up for games look like they’re waiting in line at the DMV. There is hardly any cheering for the defense or in between plays on offense. Only two segments of the stadium make any audible noises during home games. There are the alumni who have set aside a few hours to watch their alma mater and the traveling fans of the road teams, who’ve driven hundreds of miles. It’s not just football. In response to men’s basketball’s depressing attendance, Athletic Director Cheryl Levick hired Ron Hunter, one of the most energetic coaches in college basketball, to bring excitement and hopefully fans to GSU’s Sports Arena. Alas, most Georgia State fans are so apathetic most of you still haven’t realized they hired a new head basketball coach. For football’s regular season finale, perhaps Occupy Atlanta protestors should get free tickets instead of Georgia State students. At least, they’ve shown more commitment to sleeping in frozen tents for an ambiguous cause than Georgia State students do to cheering inside the Dome. Plus, the team will surely appreciate the drums and chants from the silent student section. Georgia State football will be around for the long haul, but it remains to be seen when the students will join them.
Jason Getz | Atlanta J ournal Constitution
The student section is virtually empty during the panthers’ last home game against St. Francis
georgia state sports communications
Men’s Soccer’s stellar CAA campaign was enough to convince the NCAA to give them a place in the tournament.
Men’s Soccer to face Duke in NCAA first round SAAKIB ZAFRANI Sports Editor
Men’s Soccer will take on the Duke Blue Devils in the first round of the NCAA tournament on Nov. 17. After a stellar CAA campaign, the NCAA announced on Monday that the Panthers had advanced. The men’s team had their best season since joining the CAA in 2005, as they made it to the conference tournament and advanced to the semifinals last weekend. The team, led by head coach Brett Surrency, posted a 12-6-1 season and qualified for the sixth seed in the CAA tournament hosted by James Madison. In the first match of the tournament, Georgia State faced a stout defense in the William & Mary Tribe, a team they had beat 1-0 in the regular season. The first half proved to be a defensive battle, but the Tribe went ahead early in the second
half, as Nicolas Abrigo scored on a penalty kick in the 50th minute. With a defense almost as good as Georgia State’s, it looked as if the Tribe might be able to nurse the slim lead to victory, but that all changed 15 minutes later as All-Tournament sophomore Stephen McGill blasted a shot from 35 yards out into the upper left corner of the net. With the equalizer in the bag, Georgia State found themselves in prime position to take the lead on a corner kick. Bo Stroup sent a lofted ball that Evan Scott met with his head to send past William & Mary’s goal keeper, and that proved to be the difference. The win was Georgia State’s first in a CAA tournament and sent them to the semifinals to play a rematch against Old Dominion. The Panthers lost to the Monarchs in the regular season, and would lose again in the tournament, but not with a fight. Again, the Panthers went down early, but fought back
from two goals down to bring the score level after senior Ayokunle Lumpkin found the back of the net in the 62nd minute. The equalizer was short lived, as the Monarchs scored two more unanswered goals. Defender Peter Vania gave the Panthers hope as he headed in a corner in the 87th minute, but Old Dominion put out any lingering embers by scoring again in the final minute. Although Georgia State went down to No. 18 Old Dominion, they proved to the NCAA that they deserved a spot in the tournament, and were rewarded with matchup against Duke. Duke is 10-7-3 on the season and was mentioned as a possible sleeper in the NCAA selection show. The overwhelming favorite to win the title is the University of North Carolina, but don’t count out a CAA dark horse in James Madison or Old Dominion, and certainly don’t count out the Panthers to make some waves of their own.
$10 student tickets to all Alliance shows! In person at the Box Office.*
NOV. 11 - DEC. 18
Conveniently located by MARTA Arts Center Station.
Hey HeyBaby Baby
U + me + The Second City = date 2nite? :) :) :)
alliancetheatre.org/sex Box Office: 404.733.5000
Entertainment
z ONLINE: STAFF WRITER
ATTENDS MOOGFEST, DISCOVERS NEW TREND
SUPER MARIO
www.gsusignal.com/entertainment
Staff Reports In celebration of the new video game Super Mario 3D Land, Nintendo organized a series of flash mobs where 100 Mario volunteers would run around a city and eventually congregate at a mall or another popular place to put on a little show. They have held flash mobs in San Diego, New York City and recently, Atlanta. If one was hanging around downtown Atlanta on Friday, Nov. 11, they may have spotted a few groups of six to ten Marios at a time, running about screaming “Hayyyy,” or, “It’s Mario!” The Marios were dressed in Tanooki ears and tails, a popular choice of outfit amongst fans. At approximately noon at Underground Atlanta, 100 Mario volunteers took up the entire block that is considered to be the entrance to the indoor mall and started to trot, a performance that requires one to take one step right, left, then right again, wiggle and lastly, jump. The Marios had several passers-by join in on their dance, then later dispersed after the traditional Super Mario theme song ended. The Marios consisted of volunteers who were locals in the area, a few were even Georgia State students who found the opportunity to partake in the flash mob through the Golin Harris marketing firm, who organized the event using social media like Facebook. Super Mario 3D Land is the first game that was created for the new Nintendo 3DS. The video game was made available for purchase on Sunday, Nov. 13.
Super Mario invades Underground Atlanta
Game review Miles Keenlyside Copy Editor
On Nov. 11, Skyrim, the long awaited fifth installment of the Elder Scrolls series hit stores. The Elder Scrolls is a video game series that has been evolving over time, with a dedicated group of fans that have been following the mythos. Set in the enchanted land of Tamriel, don’t let the beautiful landscapes and storybook costumes deceive you. A bloody world of bandits, monsters, murderers and thieves awaits you. The open world design allows you to tromp across mist covered mountains and gleaming fields of grass as you pursue your fantastic destiny. From the makers of the Fallout, this new installment of The Elder Scrolls series utilizes a whole new system of leveling and game play that renders the player almost speechless. The sophisticated new game engine allows for breath taking vistas as well as terrifying drooling monsters that lunge at you from the darkness. The dialogue draws in the character and helps to stitch together the rich story line as your character works his (or her) way through the complicated histories and
politics in the game. The player is thrust into a world recently plagued by dragons. The first four installments of the series only hinted at the existence of dragons in the game, and only now does the player experience their terrifying might. You are the “Dragon Born” a character who has been blessed, or some would say cursed, by the gift of the voice of the dragons. As the plot unfolds the character begins to learn that they and their mystical dragon voice may be the only hope to save the world from these dragons. As I entered the world of Skyrim, I adopted the persona of an old beserker orc, and donned my red war paint and knotted my grey beard. You start out as a prisoner of the empire, captured for being a suspected rebel. As you are carted towards your execution you learn that you were captured along with several high-ranking rebels. Oh cruel fate, how can I explain my way out of this? As you are called to approach the beheading block, you get your first taste of the might of a dragon. To prevent any spoilers to those who might (and I would recommend do) buy this game, I’ll skip for-
Elder Scroll Skyrim
courtesy of pcgamer.com
ward a little bit. Bethesda, the game’s developers, did a good job taking things that they did well in other games and moving them into Skyrim rather seamlessly. There are several things that the savvy gamer will notice immediately, such as a lock picking system similar to the Fallout series. You might also notice a similar system of choosing perks that benefit particular skills your character has. There are also new systems for creating armor and swords that are similar to the ways that you would create po-
tions in previous installments. Bethesda has done an excellent job in creating an Elder Scrolls game that both maintains the look and feel of the previous installments, while implementing changes that they learned from trial and error in their games from other titles series. The player truly feels that they are traversing a land where they are allowed to do almost anything they choose. The open-ended game play style allows the player to choose the direction of their
play, and to choose what kind of person they want to be in the game. Want to be a sneaky elf man who specializes in pick pocketing? Or perhaps a barbarian intent on smashing everything he sees? Or maybe an evil wizard bent on poisoning everyone and re-animating their corpses? The world of Skyrim is your oyster! So far, my experience with The Elder Scrolls: Skyrim has been nothing but positive. I could tell you exactly how many hours I’ve spent over the past weekend (since the game keeps track) but I won’t. I see myself spending many hours on my couch playing this game, and I am willing to admit that I will probably have minimal social interaction for at least a month because of it. The wide open world game play, the riveting story lines, the believable dialogue and voice acting all come together to transport the player into the skin of someone living in another world. With over 1000 hours of advertised game-play time and randomly generated quests, If your looking to immerse yourself in a fantasy world where you can control the elements and wield deadly edged weapons, Skyrim is the game for you.
14
entertainment | THE SIGNAL
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2011
Don’t play journalist
BE ONE { { If you’re interested in applying at The Signal, feel free to visit our newsroom in 200 University Center or contact Student Media Advisor, Bryce McNeil in room 300 in the Student Center.
Editors meet deadlines, edit articles and manage staff Writers interview students and faculty Public Relations/Marketing Coordinator distribute newspapers and create ads like this one Designers design pages and create graphics Photographers bring visuals to the news Illustrators help create graphics and poke fun at the news
THE SIGNAL
TOUGH BUT GOOD
TOUGH
Yeah, we’re tough. But our graduates are some of the most successful members of a field that’s growing year after year. Come to us and you’ll work hard the next two years of your life, but you’ll love how we prepare you for the future. Give us a call or visit our website today and FIND OUT WHAT WE’RE ALL ABOUT. Brown College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE) For more information www.bccr.edu/disclosures Certified by the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) Affiliated with the National Verbatim Reporters Association (NVRA)
(404) 963-9930 | www.bccr.edu/2011 Serving Atlanta Since 1972
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2011
Turn in the Dream-Songs 01 A Jeffrey Lewis (Rough Trade) is Dance! 02 Life Various Artists (B-Music)
03 Vektroid Neo Cali (Self-Released) Antique 04 Beats Beats Antique (Antique) Creek Park 05 Rock Oddisee (Mellow Music Group) Gumbo 06 Cookin’ Captain Planet (Bastard Jazz)
07 Conatus Zola Jesus (Sacred Bones) for Mowo! 08 Candygram Mocean Worker (Mowo! Inc.) Sharks 09 Lone The Doppelgangaz (Self-Released) the Water 10 On Future Islands (Thrill Jockey)
11
15
ENTERTAINmENT | THE SIGNAL
Florence + The Machine | Ceremonials keNdall haRRIS Staff Writer
Florence Welch is painfully self-aware. She is not afraid to be completely exposed in her music, and you can hear it in every track on her latest album Ceremonials. She boldly and unabashedly explores her thoughts, no matter how simple or how deranged they may be. In “Shake It Out,” Welch recognizes that everyone has regrets and flaws. She pinpoints her own flaws (“And I’ve been a fool and I’ve been blind / I can never leave the past behind”) but takes the listener on an emotional roller coaster as she tries to “shake it off ” and let the past go. There is not a dull track on Ceremonials — in fact, there isn’t even a dull second. It seems impossible, but Welch has put her heart and soul into every single beat of every single song on this album.
She says things in her music that most people would be afraid even to admit to themselves, much less to the world. In “No Light, No Light,” she addresses that it’s simpler for her to reveal her secrets to her audience: “‘Cause it’s so easy / to sing it to the crowd / but it’s so hard, my love / to say it to you, all alone.” Her unrestrained vocals add to the intensity of the album, but Welch still knows that you don’t have to increase the volume to increase the effect. Her voice has such range that it can express the helplessness of holding on and the power of letting go in one track. “Never Let Me Go” is a great example. In “Breaking Down,” Florence & The Machine sounds like the Arcade Fire if they had an incredibly strong female vocalist. Every track contains a sophisticated artistry that hasn’t been seen in modern music for years.
Welch has put her heart and soul into every single beat of every single song on this album.
Twirligig
Jonti (Stones Throw)
One Cares 12 No DJ JS-1 (Ground Original) Hair 13 Gauntlet Gauntlet Hair (Dead Oceas) of an Hour 14 Creatures Still Corners (Sub Pop) EP 15 Canopy Painted Palms (Secretly Canadian) Bread 16 Daily Hassaan Mackey & Apollo Brown (Mello Music Group) Rip Tide 17 The Beirut (Pompeii) Extrana 18 Era Neon Indian (Mom & Pop) Sister 19 Twin In Heaven (Domino) Year in Hibernation 20 The Youth Lagoon (Fat Possum) Fortune 21 Oh Dan Mangan (Arts & Crafts) Masses for Squaw Peak 22 New Holiday Shores (twosyllable) at the X 23 Staring Forest Fire (Fatcat Records)
My Brightest Diamond | All Things Will Unwind JOCelYN CRaWleY Staff Writer
Fans who liked My Brightest Diamond’s previous works may love the band’s newest album. All Things Will Unwind, their latest release, contains experimental sounds and provocative lyrics that startle the senses and captivate the mind. Lyrically, All Things Will Unwind reminds one of an intense poetry reading. Without being trite or melodramatic, the songs detail experiences and emotions in a creative mode marked by both simple and complex musings. Musically, the album includes a combination of classic and contemporary sounds that give it a foreign yet familiar edge. From rock to opera, the songs contain and convey a pleasant smorgasbord of sound. Although every track from All Things Will Unwind is marked by multifaceted lyrics and sounds, “We Added It Up” seems particularly indicative of the album’s diversity. Primarily about a relationship made complex because its members are polar opposites, the singer reflects on how this incongruity results in nothingness: “We added it up to zero. Zero.” Reconciling these opposites and negating the divisions they cause, the artist brings all things together with a melodic chorus that affirms, “Love binds
the world.” Whereas “We Added It Up” concludes with affirming words and soothing sounds, “Be Brave” is marked by an almost dark and haunting quality that reveals the group’s ability to portray the depth and scope of human experiences. Against background music that includes a symphony and beating drums, the singer details various aspects of the creative process by referencing a mask and finger bells as tools she uses before telling herself to “get to work.” Although open-ended, the song seems to detail the pain and transformation that transpire when one makes art. In addition to tracks marked by profound statements about love and creation, the album includes insinuations about political and cultural corruption. “There’s a Rat” covers the anxiety and anger an individual experiences upon realizing a rodent is eating her cheese in the kitchen. After going on to note that a snake in the cellar is drinking her wine, the singer metaphorically ties this thievery to the actions and attitudes of bankers, lawyers, governors and mayors. With 11 rich and resonating tracks that discuss everything from the complexity of love to the creation of the world, All Things Will Unwind has an esoteric spellbinding quality that does not disappoint. As always, My Brightest Diamond is a gem.
Up, We’re Dreaming 24 Hurry M83 (Mute)
Robert Schwartzman | Double Capricorn
25 Nightlife Phantogram (Barsuk)
ZaCk kRaIMeR Staff Writer
Dream 26 Hazed Psychic Ills (Sacred Bones)
27 Days Real Estate (Domino) Club 28 Tape Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin (Polyvinyl) & Present 29 Past Tycho (Ghostly International) // ST 30 YT Yamantaka // Sonic Titan (Psychic Handshake)
Pop records are a dime a dozen — they’re kind of made to be that way, after all — but Rooney vocalist Robert Schwartzman’s new solo release, Double Capricorn, is a little different in at least one regard. Instead of being created to fuel the eternal bonfire that is the pop music circuit, he’s decided to donate all profits from the sale of the album to the Tibetan Healing Fund. Aside from its noble intentions, Capricorn is a really straightforward pop record. It sounds a lot like, well, everything else that’s popular right now. That’s not necessarily a bad thing — it’s popular for a reason, isn’t it? Layer upon layer of synth pads and electronic drums comprise much of the backdrop, over which Schwartzman croons and, surprisingly, raps a fair amount. After hearing Capricorn, it’s abundantly clear that Schwartzman has had an ‘80s synth-pop itch he’s been dying to scratch (and couldn’t with Rooney). Tracks like
“Someone 2 Love” and “You Don’t Have To Lie” blend synthesizers and acoustic instruments to form danceworthy numbers reminiscent of disco, soul and electropop in varying degrees. Although his vocal chops are nothing to scoff at, his voice would be better suited to Rooney and acts of a similar style. Even so, his rap skills are better than your average teen-pop vocalist, and it changes things up on the record just enough to keep it interesting. Fans of Rooney might be a little confused by Capricorn — there’s nothing like the group’s hit “Blueside” to be found on the record. It’s clear, though, that Schwartzman knows pop music (and how to craft it) all too well. Given his pop sensibility, it makes sense that he’d choose this record as the vessel for his donation to the Tibetan Healing Fund — he knows that the record would draw more money for the charity than something less accessible. Regardless of their loyalty to Rooney, fans of synth-heavy pop will find a lot to like about Double Capricorn.
STILL NEUTRAL.
US!
WWW.GSUSIGNAL.COM
Follow us!
CAMPUS LIFE
z ONLINE: Miss Black and Gold 2011
shows off Galactic Beauties--Find out who won!
www.gsusignal.com/campuslife
Intern Insider: PR powerhouse outshines competition Courtney Boyd Staff Writer
Where in the world is Soledad O’Brien? Nicole Shields would know. As a public relations intern with CNN, it’s her job to create press releases and media packages, publish web content, write biographies and schedule photo shoots for documentary and show hosts Don Lemon, Kaj Larsen, Amber Lyon, Dr. Sanjay Gupta and, of course, Soledad O’Brien. A hard day’s work leaves little room for boredom or bathroom breaks. “Basically, I build as much publicity for the documentaries and show stars as I can. Every day is different. The environment is fastpaced and upbeat, so I’m always busy,” Shields said. Luckily, the Georgia State senior has enough energy to fuel three suns. In addition to interning with one of the world’s largest media conglomerates, she is president of the campus chapter of Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) and owner of a boutique agency, Shields Network Public Relations Consultant. Her résumé is nearly as long as her transcripts, and includes production experience with GSTV, Peachtree TV and CBS Radio. What is the secret to her success? An insatiably ambitious spirit. “I’m often told that I’m very ambitious, and I’d agree. If I want a job, I’m going to make sure that nothing stops me from getting it. I take initia-
tive. If there’s no work to do, I create something to do,.” Shields said. And she already has. The unstoppable senior outshined hundreds of other applicants to earn the public relations internship with Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. back in February, then reapplied – and was hired – for two successive semesters. That’s a pretty impressive feat for someone who switched career paths despite obvious talents in a chosen track. Prior to her current position, Shields dabbled in the field of telecommunications. In January. 2009, she became the television producer for Georgia State Television, managing a small staff of peers to create a show titled “What’s Up ATL?” Later that year, she was named production assistant to producer Nina Brown for the “Frank & Wanda Morning Show.” In 2010, Shields was hired as a production promotions intern for Peachtree TV. There she assisted in live tapings of various shows and created four commercials, one of which was shown live on the station. While each was a forward-moving opportunity, she was unsatisfied with her career outlook. “Those internships were great, because they helped me realize what my true passion is. I didn’t realize that I was already doing what I loved, because it was only a small part of the responsibilities. Now, instead of PR being a part of my employment, it’s my appointment,.” Shields said.
A six-month stint with “The Brother Tee Show” cemented her interest in public relations. She applied for a position with CNN through the company’s website and hoped for the best. “I believe my previous internship, experience and involvement with AWM helped. The application process is hardest for someone who lacks experience, doesn’t have a competitive résumé or isn’t aware of professional etiquette. I knew I had all three,” Shields continued. Shields also had the support of her family, close friends and mentors. She recognizes Ivan Shammas, national account manager at Univision, among others, as an incredible mentor from whom she “learned value of networking, the usefulness of being bilingual and the importance of staying focused.” Jennifer Dargan, her current boss and director at CNN, has been the an exceptional role model. “Some people have mentors or managers who don’t sit down and teach. My manager actually sits down and explains why something is or isn’t right. She really sits down and teaches me how to do things correctly. That’s invaluable,” Shields said. Shields must be the model student. This semester marks her third internship within the same department at CNN. As any senior would, she hopes to earn a permanent position in the near future. “Being able to pitch stories and
Lloyd Caldway Jr., APV Images
Nicole Shields poses at the People You Need to Know Magazine’s Spark Plug Radio event.
actually seeing my ideas come to fruition online or in print is rewarding. I eat, sleep, love PR and put my best work in this business. I would do it for free. But honestly - and put this in all caps - what I really want is a JOB,” Shields said. To check out Nicole’s latest proj-
ect for CNN tune in to the special “Black in America 4: The New Promised Land” on Saturday, Nov. 19 at 8 p.m. To join or learn more about the Alliance for Women in Media attend the next meeting, “Marketing 101,” this Thurs., Nov. 17, at 8 p.m. in the Sinclair Suite in the Student Center.
Exclusive Eats: Food guide to Atlanta restaurant scene Jamila Dewitt Staff Writer
Exclusive Eats is a “Fabulous Guide to Atlanta’s Restaurant Scene.” After frequent inquiry from friends about where to eat in Atlanta, CEO Zerita Buchanan created the food blog Exclusive Eats. It profiles an online guide to the most trendy and inexpensive restaurants around Atlanta. Chavon Wright, a Georgia State senior and english literature major, is a huge foodie and became associated with the Exclusive Eats company while dining at one of the restaurants that Buchanan was visiting. Wright was sitting down dining at Another Broken Egg in the Peachtree Hills area, and Buchanan, along with her brother, were conducting a tasting to feature on the website. They began chatting about different things as Wright revealed that food writing was a very big passion of hers. She offered to work for Buchanan with Exclusive Eats if she ever needed help, and the rest is history. She is now the assistant editor for the Exclusive Eats company. Exclusive Eats is generally a
Jamila Dewitt | The Signal
Excluzive Eats Assistant Editor, Chavon Wright, navigates the blog’s numerous food recommendations.
fast and user-friendly restaurant search tool for students to find great places to dine and hang out without breaking the bank. The blog uncovers moderately priced restaurants, features on the res-
taurant, details what the restaurant is best for, such as for a date, brunch and late night, and tells an estimate of how much money you will spend. According to Wright, there are
several different places to enjoy a great meal in the city. “Atlanta is very blessed in the fact that there are so many wonderful chefs and restaurant owners with a genuine passion for
delicious cuisine and a great evening on the town,” Wright said. Some of Wright’s personal favorites include The Barrelhouse Tavern-which features a great bar, CRÜ Urban Lounge-which features small plates that are great for sharing, SouperJenny-which has amazing soups and CafeJonahwhich serves a number of healthy cuisines. Exclusive Eats’ blog is being upgraded in order to give an even more user-friendly appeal and also to give the best productivity to the featured restaurants. Coming soon will be tools that allow searching by zip code or neighborhood, to give an even quicker navigation time. A cell phone app is also in the works, granting people Exclusive Eats on the go. New restaurants are added about three to four times a week, so be sure to stop by to see what new places that may be worth visiting. Also, a new and improved website will be unveiled very soon, which will give you the best options to dine in the city. Check out the Exclusive Eats blog at www.exclusiveeats.com.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2011
18
campus life| THE SIGNAL
GSU Players take on heavy topics in latest musical Thaddeus Morgan Campus Life Associate
Dancing, singing and comedy were taken on by GSU Players as part of the adult themed musical “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” Audience members were engaged and enthralled by the various topics that were introduced ranging from sexual orientation and politics to self-esteem and stress, all wrapped up in a succinct two-hour long package. Prior to the show’s start, as the gathering audience began to get seated, the Putnam County Middle School Orchestra performed several basic pieces. During these segments, audience members were taken from the stage and asked to participate by playing slide whistle’s, triangles and
maracas along with other engaging instruments with the orchestra. Despite the orchestra’s use of sour notes scattered throughout the performances, the live music accompanying the musical itself was played seamlessly well. The musical began with no hesitation from the cast to start their first number, singing about the silver anniversary of this spelling bee and introducing each characters persona in the process. With splashes of purple pants, red shoes and yellow socks, the characters stood out as vibrantly as their style of acting. Each character’s portrayal was animated and had goofy traits. One character only spells out words with his foot, while another can only spell correctly after going into a trance.
Campus Calendar November 15, 2011
Spending a Semester Abroad Student Panel
Ever thought about spending a semester overseas, but have some lingering questions? Come and listen to our student panelists as they give advice on finding and funding a program, getting transfer credit, culture shock, career tips, and more! Student Center, Golden Key Room // 12:00 p.m.
Job Search Seminar for International Students
TOPICS WILL INCLUDE: -When and how to start your job search -Identifying employers who may hire international students -Using internships & work experiences -Job search skills & networking strategies -Understanding the immigration process of going from OPT to HI-B to Permanent Residency (green card) 245 University Center // 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Open Mic Night
November 16, 2011
Come out and enjoy our monthly Open Mic Night in the Student Center. Perform your music, poetry, lyrics or other talents, or just sit back, relax and enjoy performances by your fellow classmates. Prizes will be given for the top three winners! Courtyard Stage, Student Center, First Floor // 7:00 p.m. – 12:00 p.m.
November 17, 2011
Molecular Basis of Disease Distinguished Lecturer Seminar Series: Dr. Steve Clarke
Dr. Steve Clarke, professor of Biochemistry at the UCLA Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, will present “Regulation of Biological Function with a Little Methyl Group: Protein modification at arginine, lysine, and histidine residues.” Petit Science Center, Room 124 // 10:00 a.m.
November 18, 2011
Menotti One-Act Operas: “The Medium” & “The Old Maid and the Thief”
The Twilight Zone meets the opera house in The Medium, where the tawdry Madame Flora conducts séances while battling forces both natural and supernatural. Originally conceived as a radio-opera and first broadcast in 1939, The Old Maid and the Thief tells the tale of two lonely women who compete for the affections of a mysterious stranger, ultimately creating a twisted web of lies and deceit. Florence Kopleff Recital Hall // 7:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Want to see your event in this space? Contact Angel White at signalliving@gmail.com with your event’s name, time, date, location and a brief description of the event. All events listed in the Campus Events calendar must either take place on campus or be produced by a Georgia State-affiliated organization.
All of the performers represented a different example of a onedimensional character that found more depth and complexity as the story progressed. Four individuals chosen from the audience were tossed into the pandemonium of the singing, dancing and acting on the stage, even being asked to spell words based on their own skill. One by one the audience members got eliminated and given a juice box – or thrown a juice box – before being sent on their way. With their lack of a script or rehearsal, including them was a calculated risk that paid off with the addition of laughter and realism. After the volunteers left, the remaining characters on stage felt corny at times but not so much as
to distract the audience from enjoying the show. And any comedy overshadowed the bits in the performance that were done over the top. However, with all the comedy based around the characters, the humor was intentionally made for an older audience. They didn’t shy away from making fun of controversial issues such as the Occupy Atlanta movement and religion, with one character having talked to Jesus on stage. Logainne Schwartzandgrubenierre, played by Kris Laroche, even addressed the most recent Republican National Debate, calling Rick Santorum an unfit candidate under the guidance of her two fathers. At the conclusion of the play, the plot didn’t go in the direction that the audience may have expected.
The winning character of the spelling bee followed their intuition for pride as opposed to love, but this ending was a refreshing twist on what could have otherwise been seen as cliché. The audience perceived the musical well. Rashad Cain, junior film and video major, said, “I enjoyed the musical. It was cool to see them getting involved with the audience.” “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” showed a usually unexciting event and made it compelling with a group of talented triple-threats that didn’t hold their tongues when performing for the audience. For more information on performances by the GSU Players, visit gsuplayers.com.
Doing something good for change Intisar Seraaj Staff Writer
Every May 16th, Starr Valentino promotes everyone to do something good for his or her neighbor and believes bringing people together through love is a great start. Valentino is a Christian man and says that although the Bible states to love thy neighbor, people no longer care about each other. Therefore, he founded Do Something Good for Your Neighbor Day in order to encourage people to care for one another. Atlanta City Hall officially recognized Valentino’s efforts and Do Something Good for Your Neighbor Day on Monday, May 16th, 2011 while Mayor Kasim Reed awarded him for his “noteworthy efforts to improve and preserve the spirit of neighborliness.” On that same day, Atlantic Station and Centennial Olympic Park hosted the unification day. Valentino promoted the day annually with concerts, a theme song broadcasted on local radio stations, television commercials and free food for the homeless. One of his most memorable memories of this year’s event was emptying all of the money he had collected so far that day into the shirt of a young, pregnant HIV victim after hearing her touching story. Valentino’s deed is not surprising when learning of how he began promoting the day. He began by walking along Peachtree Street with $200 in his pocket, passing out $1 bills as he traveled down the street. On another occasion, he walked around Atlanta distributing $5 gift cards. “People are distant from each other and are losing something of their humanity,” said Valentino. “Do Something Good for Your Neighbor Day is a day of people uniting for the good of each other in order to bring the connection back through love.” Valentino went to say, “It is
Intisar Seraaj | The Signal
Star Valentino picks up Georgia State student’s notebook.
all about opening your heart on the day by doing something good for your neighbor and making people feel good.” He learned all about opening one’s heart to others at an early age. His mother used to take hot meals to immobile senior citizens for many years. Just as he learned from an early age, Valentino believes that we should also begin teaching the youth about having a charitable mindset early on. Valentino is a forerunner in exhibiting his philosophy. He is a regular volunteer worker and donator to several charities and uses his second-degree black belt skills to teach one-on-one Karate lessons. Valentino notes some of the simple ways that you can participate in the unification effort: “Shaking hands with someone and saying ‘I love you,’ giving financial means, visiting people in the hospital, helping someone cross the street, opening some-
one’s car door for them, assisting a struggling mother or even by buying another person coffee,” said Valentino “The smallest things mean a lot to people.” As the population continues to grow, changing the youth’s mindset would be a significant step toward spreading the goal of Do Something Good for Your Neighbor Day. Valentino hopes to make it a nationally celebrated event. He plans to achieve his goal by receiving national approval state-by-state, beginning with Georgia and New York. During these beginning stages, he plans to make a significant impression by making Do Something Good for Your Neighbor Day the biggest unification day in Georgia. With such a giving spirit, Valentino’s mission for founding Do Something Good for Your Neighbor Day is to only see the love shared between people once again.
PUZZLES & CLASSIFIEDS WORd fINd Classifieds Lost or found any books, clothing, umbrellas, sunglasses, (etc.) This semester...? Try lost.or.found@gmail.com (For non-clothing items, you should also contact GSU police) Wanted to buy Do you still have your “commercial master” commuterlocker padlock, and no longer need it after this semester? I need a couple, willing to buy yours.Call (404)941-0790 I still need a comfortable used backpack...(Similar to path ones) Color/appearance not as important as good price. Call dean 404-585-7063 and thanx Laptop or netbook wanted by returning student. (Need min. 2Gig ram) Also want to buy dragon naturally speaking. Please contact (404)941-0790, asap.
CORRECTIONS
Announcement: Grad student desperately seeking affordable/pro bono legal assistance in pursuing couterclaims in unlawful eviction/breach of verbal contract case. If you might be able to help, as an attorney or by passing this plea on to an attorney, thank you. My personal, confidential contact number is 404-585-7063.
Nov. 8 Date My School article said that DMS has “over 16,100 members”; The website has over 55,000 members.Most of the site’s search functions such as age range, school, ethnicity, nationality and faith do not require the user to sign a friend up. “Campus crime spikes with three consecutive robberies,” the story was erroneously attributed to staff writer Terah Boyd. The story was written by Chris Shattuck. “Replacing the Courtland Street bridge,” it was erroneously reported that the vote for the TSPLOST funds would be on the ballot for the Nov. 8 elections. The vote will actually be on the ballot next year in 2012.
ABROAD ACADEMIC ACTIVITY BASKETBALL COMMITTEE COURTYARD
CROSSCOUNTRY FINALS FLORENCE FOOD INTERNATIONAL OPENMIC
SUdOkU
RUMDIARY SPELLINGBEE STUDENT SUPERMARIO TWILIGHT VOLLEYBALL
Courtyard Music Series.jpg
http://www.gsu.edu/studentcenter Styles
Spotlight
Lists
Spacing
Styles
WHATʼS HAPPENING ON CAMPUS!
www.gsu.edu/spotlight
Student Appreciation Finals Break Thursday, December 1, 7-11 p.m. Student Center Ballroom Stressed out? Need a break before finals? Come join Spotlight for a night of relaxation featuring massages, a movie, interactive attractions, Southern-style buffet, yoga and more. Paid for by student activity fees, this event is open only to GSU students and their one invited guest.
Campus Events Lists
Spacing
CAMPUS EVENTS
For more information, call Spotlight at 404/413-1610.
www.gsu.edu/studentevents
Open Mic Night
Wednesday, November 16, 7-9 p.m. Courtyard Stage, Student Center, First Floor Perform your music, poetry, lyrics or other talents at Open Mic Night, or just sit back and enjoy performances by your fellow classmates. Prizes will be given for the top three winners! To perform, come out early and sign up before the event or e-mail Campus Events at campusevents@gsu.edu.
Leadership Development Styles
Spacing
Spacing
www.gsu.edu/leadership
Corporate Governance
Lists
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS http://gsu.orgsync.com
Try out
Lists
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Student Organizations Styles
Lists
SPOTLIGHT PROGRAMS BOARD
Supported by Student Activity Fees
Styles
Spacing
Mobile!
Use OrgSync on mobile devices without installation
Wednesday, November 16, Noon-1 p.m. Student Center, Lucerne Suite Leadership and governance are important components in successful organizations. In this session, we will explore how to strike a balance between the two.
Building a Diverse You
Thursday, November 17, 1-2 p.m. Student Center, Lucerne Suite Explore ways to incorporate diverse, multicultural, meaningful experiences into your leadership journey. Using the values categories outlined in the Social Change Model as our guide, we will identify key experiences all leaders should undertake to enhance their own understanding of diverse issues.
Putting It All Together: From Campus Leader to Career Success
Thursday, November 17, 4-5 p.m. 245 University Center Are you prepared for career success? Do you know how to capitalize on your college experiences? In this session, we will piece together the journey from campus leader to career success. You will leave prepared for the next step in your career journey.
http://www.gsu.edu/cinefest
Georgia State University uLearn
Just Like a Native App
Mobile Beta
OrgSync Mobile can be used on any smart-phone and works just like a native application. To access OrgSync Mobile, log in at www.orgsync.com.
OrgSync Mobile is in beta phase, and not all features are enabled yet. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, the full version of the site is just one click away.
Some devices will allow you to bookmark OrgSync to your home screen for quick access.
More Information Visit www.orgsync.com/ recent-updates/mobile
All shows free for GSU students, faculty and staff with ID. Guests $3 before 5 p.m. and $5 at 5 p.m. and after.
Cinefest Film Theatre
cinefest movie times
Twitter Twitter
Captain America: The First Avenger, November 7-20
House of Boys, November 14-20 For showtimes, visit www.gsu.edu/cinefest.
x