THE SENTINEL OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY AT NC STATE UNIVERSITY
NUBIAN MESSAGE RALEIGH, NC n VOL. XII, ISSUE 7 n THENUBIANMESSAGE.COM n OCTOBER 24TH, 2012
N.C. State Students Hit the Polls for Early Voting
Affirmative Action in Jeopardy Kierra Leggett| Editor-in-Chief
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he Supreme Court could repeal the use of affirmative action in the admissions policies of the nation’s colleges in its ruling on Fisher v. Texas. This potential change in legislation results from the Chief Justice case of Abigail Fisher and Clarence Thomas accusations of discrimination she has made against the University of Texas at Austin (UT). Fisher, 22, graduated from Louisiana State University in May, however was denied admission to UT in 2008. According to Fisher she was denied because she was white. J. Jack
Dee Mitchel, a freshman in psychology, holds up the “I’m Voting” mustache after early voting inside Tally Student Center and signing her Pledge to Vote.
Jasmyn Morere| Staff Writer
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arly voting began Oct. 18 in N.C. State’s Talley Student Center. The reasons for students voting on campus has been varied with some hoping to avoide Election Day crowds, and others enthused about receiving fake moustaches in exchange for pledging to vote. As Nov. 6 quickly approaches, more and more students have utilized Talley’s easy voting system and demonstrated their political prowess in the 2012 election. Jackson Roberts, a freshman majoring in communication, cast his vote in the Presidential Election last Thursday. Roberts was most
Senior Joseph McRae majoring in Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering and Applied Mathematics also signs his pledge to
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impressed with the ease and availability of voting. Unaware that voting had begun on campus, he first learned about it, after he saw a post on Facebook.
In her lawsuit, Fisher also claims that the University of Texas violated terms set in place by the Supreme Court in its ruling on Grutter v. Bollinger. The precedent set by this case requires that universities seeking to increase diversity within their academic institutions consider and evaluate various factors of each individual applicant while favoring “underrepresented minorities.” Along with this policy, the University of Texas currently operates under the “Top Ten Percent Plan,” which guarantees all Texas students who graduate in the top ten percent of their class, admission to any public university in Texas. This plan
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Early Voting continued on pg. 2
Zimmerman Lawyers Gain Acess to Martin Records Chelsea Gardner| Staff Writer
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riday, Oct. 19, Judge Debra Nelson granted George Zimmerman’s lawyers access to Trayvon Martin’s school and social media accounts. This included access to Martin’s Twitter and Facebook, as well as documents containing Martin’s attendance, and records of disciplinary action. According to the Associated Press, defense attorneys plan to use these
records to examine Martin’s behavior and tendencies. However, neither the media nor the jury will have access to this material. It has been approximately nine months since volunteer watchdog Zimmerman, 29, shot 17-yearold Martin in Sanford, Fla. Since then, Zimmerman has adamantly claimed selfdefense, pleading not guilty to second-degree murder.
Zimmerman continued on pg. 3
Shelia E. Rocks Stage for Aggies Brie-Anne Robinson| Staff Writer The A&T Register
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ock, rock, holly rock, everybody wanna holly rock,” screamed fans as Sheila E. and Family chanted as the band rocked the house with their soul-stirring performance to her critically acclaimed song “Holly Rock!”
launched this year’s Lyceum series. N.C. A&T Cold Steel drumline opened the show with a riveting, impelling percussion tribute to Sheila E. as they filled the aisles of the auditorium with excitement.
Fans filled Harrison The drumline came together Auditorium at 7 p.m. on Oct. 17 as Sheila E. and The E. Family all in fun hyping up the audience
Aggies continued on pg. 3
2 |October 25th, 2012
NEWS
Affirmative continued from page 1
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Early Voting continued from page 1 Not sure if the post was legit, Roberts made a trip to Talley where he “just decided to do it then.” A first-time voter, Roberts values the right to vote. “My vote is just one of many,” he said, “but I feel it’s an honor to participate in something established since the founding of our country.”
was implemented in 1997 as a of Businessweek Thomas shared his way to ensure diversity with- thoughts on affirmative action saying, in the state’s public universities. “I was taught that there’s no real difference between blacks and whites, and I According to the Univer- never thought there was supposed to sity, based on her 3.59 high school be an easier or different road for us.” GPA, Fisher did not qualify for automatic admission into UT. Over the years, Thomas has been criticized harshly for his poli While in the 2003 case of Grut- tics, in particular his views on after vs. Bollinger the Supreme Court firmative action. Surrounding the ruled to uphold affirmative action Fisher v. Texas case, Melissa Harrisadmissions policies, many specu- Perry, professor and MSNBC host adlate that there will not be a similar dressed Thomas with an open letter ruling in the case of Fisher v. Texas. during her Oct. 13 show. In her letter Harris-Perry stated, “Devaluing the This is largely because justices accomplishments of black people is John Roberts, Samuel Alito Jr., Anto- not a legacy of affirmative action. It’s nin Scalia, and Clarence Thomas are a legacy of racism that continues to all expected to vote in favor of Fish- confound and challenge our nation.” er. Each has expressed opposition to race and ethnicity being used as a de- Since 2003, affirmative acciding factor in college admissions. tion has remained a heated topic of debate, with supporters saying The second African-Ameri- it creates an even playing field for can to serve on the Supreme Court, blacks and other underrepresented Thomas has i been very vocal with his groups, while those opposed to it say disapproval of affirmative action. In a it leads to “reverse discrimination.” February interview with Diane Brady
Roberts recommend everyone participate in Early Voting. “It takes around ten minutes to As a freshman, this is Mitchel’s vote at Talley, and the conve- first time being able to vote. nience of being on campus is hard to beat,” said Roberts.
According to the N.C. State Student Government website, all students need to do in order to vote is ensure that they register at their campus address. Students who have not registered can do so in Talley, provided that they vote early. Students registered elsewhere can register and Early Vote at the same time. Those students who filled out a ballot prior to Monday, Oct. 22, made their decision without seeing the final presidential debate. While this may concern some voters, others on campus are still confident with their decision. “I’ve already seen one of the candidates in action for four years,” said Roberts, “and I made my decision awhile ago.” Early voting ends on Nov. 3.
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Sentinel of the African-American Community at North Carolina State University KIERRA LEGGETT | EDITOR - IN - CHIEF
STAFF WRITERS: DESTINY MCNEIL TORISHA DOZIER JASYMN MORERE CHRISTOPHER LYNN DEERRICKA GREEN CHELSEA GARDNER JEESSICA JOHNSON ROBERT MARSHALL ALEXIS TEASDELL SEHDIA MANSARAY RYAN BARNES PHOTOGRAPHERS KALI SCURLOCK JASMON JACK
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October 25th, 2012| 3
Aggies continued from page 1 This article was contributed by The A&T Register and is the first in our new section, Campus Connections, which will seek to provide Nubian Message readers with a sense of what is happening on Historically Black campuses. and gaining participation and building anticipation for the nights event. The opening performance evoked an emotional moment for the legendary female percussionist, as she had never been honored in that manner before throughout her career, she said.
in full force with soul-stirring performances that brought the audience to their feet. It is clear to see that performing arts comes center stage when it involves Sheila E. and the Family.
“I feel that we have lost the arts within the school lately because of cut backs and things that “A&T University. The most amazing is going on in the world. I think it’s so important time of my entire career. U welcomed us for young people to get involved in anything in a way we will never 4get! Indescribable,” that is artistic, whether its dance or acting. tweeted Sheila E after her performance. Whatever that art might be, it not only helps the student, but it is something that every school WNAA-FM, the broadcast voice of should have,” said Pete Escovedo, legendary N.C. A&T, has officially declared Oct. 17 percussionist who is also Sheila E’s father. “Sheila E. & The E. Family at A&T Day.” “It keeps you healthy and The Lyceum series focuses on bringing brings a lot of smiles on people’s faces!” the most provocative, culturally diverse expressed brother Juan Escovedo. programming to not only the university, but neighboring communities as well. The E Family have not always relished in the luxuries that the music industry has offered. “This was my opportunity to actually They had to endure hardships along the way as well. introduce to NC A&T students and the general public Latin music and the impact that it has globally “At the beginning when I started on all types of genres of music,” explained Ezinma performing with pops on our first record in Murphy, a Lyceum series committee member. the 70s, people said that even a father and daughter team couldn’t make it and for us “My goal was to expose students not to do the record,” Sheila E. said. Because to global music and expose cultural of our love for music, pops encouraged me diversity in performing arts,” she said. to continue moving forward because this is what we have chosen for our career and we In previous years, the Lyceum series has continue to fight because of our love for music.” had a number of events put in place for students and the A&T community but decided to It was a special moment for both Sheila downsize this year with two great performances, E. and her band as much as it was for the fans not due to budget cuts but they want to focus as her father and brother joined her on stage to on sharing more unique quality programming. show fans where all her expertise came from.
Sheila E.
Photo Courtesy of: Wikimedia Commons
We believe in our president. I think that he believes in our country and it’s from the heart. That I appreciate,” said Pete Escovedo. “I think young people should look to the future and not at what somebody says they’re going to do because it doesn’t mean it’s going to happen right now and that’s what our president stands on. I think that young people should realize that if they vote for Obama, your future looks more secure than anyone else talking right now,” he said.
Sheila E. and the Family released their latest album Now & Forever in 2011. The album is a timeless musical journey through Jazz, Latin, Hip Hop, and Pop sounds to special features from Raphael Saadiq, George Duke, Joss Stone, Gloria Estefan, and many more. The E Family “It’s hard to bring top rate programming With Juan Escovedo on the congas, and represents versatility and talent that is able to without having the means to attain it,” stated Pete Escovedo on the Remo roto tom drum, cross many barriers and inspire others to do the Gregory Horton, co-chair of the Lyceum series. they made the audience jump to their feet same. They strive to bring back performing arts with their skills and Latin-soul inspired music. by setting an example for others before them. “In order to keep the momentum up from the students and the community, N.C. A&T later tweeted, “We are glad The Lyceum series continues to you can’t bring anybody. I realized this that you and your family enjoyed yourselves. promote cultural diversity in performing generation knew who Sheila E. was mostly You are welcome back in Aggieland anytime!” arts and plans to bring the Russian Ballet from their parents and past generations, as to our A&T community in the spring. well as her smash hit ‘Glamorous Life.” he said. Sheila E. later retweeted, “U will be in our hearts 4ever! We will be back. God Bless.” He expressed how surprised he was to see all 450 student tickets sell out first as this The E Family not only believes in years series was able to gain the attention of our the essence of performing arts among youth Latino community and surrounding neighbors today, but also feel it is important for young through television and radio advertising. people to participate in this year’s election.
Sheila E. and her band took the stage
“I believe voting is extremely important.
Zimmerman continued from page 1
Selena Amatya, a sophomore in In Many people wonder how academic ternational Studies agrees with this sentirecords are relevant to Martin’s murder, while ment. “I kinda think it is irrelevant. Your others think they are a key component in the grades or your tweets don’t constitute whethcase. Martin’s family disagrees with the ruling. er or not you deserve to get shot,” she said. tin, the von an
According to USA Today, Tracy Marthe father of the slain teenager, said school records are irrelevant. “Traywas the victim,” he said. “I think it’s attempt to assassinate his character.”
The next hearing will be held on Friday to discuss Zimmerman’s medical records and the issuing of a gag order, which establishes closed hearings and requires a few documents be sealed.
USA Today also reported that in response Zimmerman’s trial has been set for June to Martin’s shooting, his parents have begun an 10, 2013. organization called the “Change Trayvon Committee of Continuous Existence.” The purpose of this organization is to progressively change the “stand your ground” laws in the United States.
4 |October 25th, 2012
Perspectives
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“Un-Tapped” Resources Robert Marshall | Staff Writer
Is Long-Term Celibacy Really Possible?
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elibacy is one of those terms that is often used and misused, misinterpreted and miscommunicated. For some it is simply abstaining from sex until marriage, while for others it is a temporary decision; just waiting for someone who “feels right.”
Vice President of Colombia Pictures, spoke about his decision to become celibate, and how that commitment lasted for more than ten years until his recent marriage to actress, Meagan Good. Franlkin who is also a preacher said that he couldn’t speak on living one lifestyle and actually live another. He had to There remains another small make the difficult decision to abstain faction, though, to which celibacy from sex in accordance to God’s will. bears a different meaning. It is an action of showing allegiance to one’s Franklin is just 33-years-old which religion or God; it is taking the time to would mean he was around my age, build meaningful relationships and 22-23 years old, when he made the holding off on the physical until some decision to give up one of life’s great predetermined point, often marriage. pleasures, in exchange for a life he found more fitting for a man of In a recent interview with Global God. Being 22-years-old, it may be Grind, Devon Franklin, Senior
hard to imagine giving up sex, but it is a trend I have seen emerging among my peers, especially among the female population. In my conversations, the role of sex has changed from simple physical pleasure to a more meaningful emotional connection. The goal is no longer just “Chasing O-s.” The fun is fleeting and it is becoming something much more powerful, a form of expression.
Shaniqua Taylor
The Haute Seat
“Sheeeeesh that’s a doozey lol. Back in the day, no but now that I’m more mature I could. Sex is important but isn’t the defining factor in a relationship”
Hardy Copeland ketchup struggle story.
On Twitter, one can say, “Me and my girls steppin’ out tonight.” On Instagram users can use the above caption, but post a picture that reveals, “Me and my girls dressing up like ‘the YMCA Village People, thinking we’re cute.” Party promoters have also taken advantage of the Instagram phenomena. Now instead of simply tweeting, “This party is turnt up,” they can Instagram a photo that shows four to five dudes sitting on a couch, sharing a bottle of Mr. Boston. I could go on and on with the examples, but I think you get the idea. Above all else, Instagram is an outlet for low budget “models” with low self-esteem. A major difference between Instagram “models” and real models are that real models do not take their own pictures, nor do they pay photographers to do so.
Christopher Lynn | Staff Writer
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ocial networking outlets are at an all-time high in popularity in the African-American community right now. The one currently sweeping the nation is called “Instagram.” Instagram is a photo-sharing social network that launched about two years ago. In September of this year, it was reported that Instagram had about 100 million users. Now, with every new social networking site, there is always an upward popularity climb, a peak, and a downward spiral. It’s safe to say that Instagram is just beginning it’s downward spiral.
@chasej33: “The fact that
this election is close reels me a lot about this country. #NUBIANMESSAGE” @namesmonte: “After more
Your Voice: Could you go ten years without sex if that’s what your partner wanted? “Yes if that is how they morally feel then I would be willing to respect their decision by waiting. Besides, it would give us a chance to truly get to know each other with out the pressures of sex like monogamy, cheating,etc.”
Here’s what you all had to say about Monday’s Presidential Debate on Twitter:
Also, saying “No Filter” doesn’t count when you look like you just dove face first into the MAC counter at Crabtree. As a person wielding a penis, taking a daily “selfie,” or self-portrait constitutes as suspect. Waking up in the morning, taking a picture with those halfsquint eyes, trying to look good is not the move, no matter how many “likes” it gets. Also, if you’re a “sneakerhead,” please stop rotating the same five to seven pairs of sneakers. Taking pictures of your only nugget of “loud” just screams out to me, “I overpaid for some mid-grade, sprayed with Windex & lemon juice to stunt for Instagram.” But above all else, I need for my fellow brethren to stop falling into the thirst traps. No explanation or punchline needed for this one.
If there’s one thing we as black people do is stay up with trends and brag about what we have. Instagram is the perfect enabler for both. While on Twitter users To everyone digitizing their ignorance, I welcome you can say, “I just cooked some spaghetti. It was love,” on to the Haute Seat. Instagram pictures tell more of a Ramen Noodle and
passion & fire from that debate, it is more clear that every eligible voter needs to weigh in. It’s too personal. #NUBIANMESSAGE”
@imnot_spanish “Romney has no clear direction or understanding of issues that affect the MAJORITY, that affects ME. #NUBIANMESSAGE” @Rollseven Summary for Debate from Mitt: “Yeah, me too....” #debate2012 #NUBIANMESSAGE @str8outtaJerzey
Even if Mitt Romney was to become president it wouldn’t be ideal but won’t be the end of the world #ijs #NUBIANMESSAGE
Want to see your tweet featured in the NubianMessage? Tweet us using the hashtag
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Perspectives
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October 25th, 2012| 5
The Fraud Surrounding Voter Fraud DeErricka Green | Staff Writer
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billboard that has been spotted in African American, Hispanic and low income neighborhoods of Cleveland, Milwaukee, Cincinnati, as well as parts of Pennsylvania reads, “Voter fraud is a felony! Up to three an a half years and $10,000 fine.” Voter fraud is essentially as rare as being struck by lightning, or witnessing a UFO, but voter suppression is everywhere during this election- from threatening Obama-supporters with unemployment, to the disposal of voter registration forms and representatives only registering Republicans to vote. It seems we can now add billboards to this list. Texas mass media company Clear Channel, owns this and other billboards, over half of which have been seen in predominantly minority neighborhoods. The company renounces the message, claiming they are not responsible for the language. In fine print near the bottom, it states that the billboards were anonymously funded “by a private family foundation.”
in the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
of voter-ID laws which could have disenfranchised millions of citi “When you have the words zens mainly been struck down, evi‘felony,’ ‘voter,’ and ‘fine’ all in the same message, and by placing it dence shows that is voter fraud rare, where it is, the only message that it is extremely difficult to commit. you are intending to send is that this is a threat to you if you vote,” Therefore, though these she said. “It’s just a blatant attempt ads seem a peculiar way of spendto keep people in this community, particularly black people and ing election money, they work as poor people, from voting.” a perfect cover-up for the GOP’s attempts at voter suppression. Civil rights activist Al Whatever “private Sharpton has also weighed in on family foundation” paid for this event on his MSNBC talk these billboards knew his or her show PoliticsNation, saying, “Voter audience, and is all too happy to fraud barely exists in these states. disenfranchise it. If the citizens In Wisconsin, 23 cases [of voter of these neighborhoods do not realize how much of a difference fraud] out of 11 million votes cast they can make on Election have been reported since 2005. In Day, these billboards make it Ohio, only five cases out of 14 mil- quite clear that someone in a lion votes casts have been reported “private family foundation” does. since 2004. We know what they’re The areas in which these up to, and we won’t let them.” advertisements are found not only seem to target minority What is the incentive be- neighborhoods, they are specifically hind placing billboards in low found in swing states: Wisconsin, income, historically democratic Ohio, and the border area between Pennsylvania and Ohio. neighborhoods of color? Given, “voter fraud” sounds like These areas are, arguably, the most crucial to the election a menacing threat; it only appears this way to those unin- because no single party has support in formed of their voting rights. overwhelming securing Electoral College votes.
The seemingly, strategic placement of these ads, along with their aggressive language has stirred protest and commentary. City councilwoman, Phyllis Cleveland, voiced her disapproval
Not only have the excess
the swing state of swing states, the one upon which Romney’s hopes of victory essentially lie. In 2008, President Obama won Ohio by just over 200,000 votes. He won the area that includes Cleveland by nearly 250,000 votes. His victory in Ohio may have been the most politically significant, given that no Republican has ever won the Electoral College without claiming the Buckeye State. It’s been slated that Ohio is, by far, the most likely state to swing this year’s election. This fact on its own might suggest a motivation behind the billboards, and it’s no surprise. One effort at suppression- an attempt to close early voting in Ohio the weekend before election- was shut down by the Supreme Court this week. Generally, when someone is unwilli ng to put their real name on their work that tells you all you need to know about their motives. It would appear that some conservatives will go as low as to blatantly intimidate voters with misinformation, and then cannot even admit it openly.
For this “private family foundation,” in the words of Al Sharpton, we say we know what Moreover, Ohio is of course you’re up to, and we won’t let you.
From the Archives This cartoon was originally published in the first issue of the Nubian Message on Nov. 30, 1992.
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6 |October 25th, 2012
Lifestyle
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The Other Greek Experience: Being Black in a White Fraternity Christopher Lynn | Staff Writer
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here isn’t any half-stepping when it comes to joining a Greek organization, but in Dayton Collins’ organization, there isn’t any stepping at all. Collins, a junior majoring in Arts Application, is a member of Delta Kappa Epsilon, one of the oldest Greek organizations in the world.
position within the organization, that all changed. “I was about to pledge a black fraternity, and [then] DKE came at me. The President wanted me to join and be the Vice President, so I did,” said Collins.
While he could still see himself stepping on a line somewhere, Collins is Like most African-Americans ultimately satisfied with being a member interested in Greek life, Collins initially of DKE. Read below as he shares with had plans of joining one of the historically us the biggest differences between black Divine Nine organizations. However, white and black Greek life, and what when DKE offered him a leadership its like to be black in white fraternity.
Nubian Message (NM) : Do you think it was easier getting into a white fraternity than a black one ? Dayton Collins (DC) : Definitely. Forreal. Definitely [laughs] NM: You said you were aware of other black fraternities, Did you ultimately decided to join DKE because they offered you such a great position ? DC: I mean, it’s not just because of the position they offered me. I just knew it was an opportunity that was never gonna present itself again. That’s not just something you get offered all the time. So, I just took a risk really. NM: Was the difficulty of joining a black fraternity something you weighed when making your ultimate decision to join DKE ?
Dayton Collins, Delta Kappa Epsilion member
NM: Well, what’s your best frat story ? The craziest night ? DC: I think the craziest night was...uh, I can’t talk about that [laughs]. NM: What’s the best thing about being in your frat, specifically ?
Delta Kappa Epsilion Crest
DC: Ummm...I don’t know. Well, I like the diversity of it.That’s the biggest thing that stands out to me. I can’t say what the best thing is. It’s kind of like an all-around great experience. It teaches you a lot. I’m a lot more prepared for the real world than I would be if I was with a black fraternity because you’re going to be dealing with white people on a regular basis.
DC: No, because honestly, the frat I was going to join, I knew what to expect. Like, I knew it was going to be tough. I was ready to do it. But, it wasn’t about how easy it was [to join], it was more about the experience.
NM: Could you see yourself stepping on a line somewhere ?
NM: Is there a difference between how white girls treat you when you tell them you’re in DKE than black girls ?
NM: Do you think that’s something you’re missing out on ?
DC: I mean, when I tell them [black girls], you can kind of tell it throws them off. [laughs] They don’t treat me any differently. I mean, the white girls are everywhere, but that’s a different story.
DC: Yeah, I could. Wait, with [DKE] ? [laughs]
DC: [Stepping], that’s one thing I wish I could do. That’s what I was looking forward to doing [with the black frat]. But, I mean, they all have their own traditions. It’s like a give and take kind of thing.
NM: How are black frat parties different from DKE’s parties ? DC: Black frats...they dance. White frats, it’s not the same; they try to dance [laughs]. It’s just not the same. It’s never the same. The girls are different though. At [white] parties, it’s a lot less work. [laughs] I’ll say that. NM: Are there any misconceptions people have when you tell them you’re in a white fraternity ? DC: I’ve been kinda waiting on somebody to give me the “Uncle Tom” comparison [laughs]. But, I haven’t gotten that yet...surprisingly.
C. Lynn
Delta Kappa Epsilion Facts: Founded: June 22, 1894 Colors: Blue, Gold, & Crimson Motto: “Kerothen Philoi Aei” “ Friends from the heart, forver.” Famous Members: President George W. Bush Dick Clark
Lifestyle
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October 25th, 2012| 7
Presidential Double Take One N.C. State Student and Her Twin Sister Have the President Seeing Two DeErricka Green | Staff Writer
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obyn Sanders has following politics down to a science, hence her political science major. Given her impressive scrapbook, some might argue that she also knows a thing or two about how to secure a photo with the First Family. Sanders, a junior here at N.C. State and her twin sister, Ashlyn, who attends the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill have been photographed twice with President Obama, and once with the First Lady. Long before this year’s Twin sisters Robyn and Ashlyn Sanders with President Obama in 2011 election though, the Sanders sisters have made it a point to be abreast of government issues as both the importance of In 2011, the Obama campaign returned voting and being politically informed were to Raleigh, this time at N.C. State. The goal of this things articulated to them, from a young age. address was to garner support for the President’s new jobs bill. At the end, as the President took to the crowd to mingle, the Sanders sisters In the years just prior to the 2008 stole the spotlight, each receiving a hug from election, the Sanders were ardent about the ideas the Commander-in-Chief. The pictures of the of then-Senator, Hillary Clinton. “We’ve always twins embracing President Obama immediately been attentive towards politics in general,” sparked a social media frenzy and were said Sanders. “Ashlyn was involved with Girls published in the News & Observer and the Daily Nation [a leadership program that trains Tar Heel, as well as being featured on WRAL youth about the ideals and principles of the News. government system]. There, she was introduced to many politicians and learned about possible The Sanders sisters were also shown in contenders for the 2008 election. We learned about President Obama and did research on him. Before then, we were really enthusiastic about Hillary, but that’s when our avocation for President Obama began.” In the following years, their support for President Obama has grown to tremendous heights, and has included several photo-ops along the way. In 2009, President Obama visited Broughton High School in Raleigh, N.C. for a town hall meeting, focused on healthcare reform. It was during this event that the Sanders first had an opportunity to hear the President deliver an address in person.
“...and it’s funny because I remember talking about it, saying ‘We’ll probably never see him again.’ ”
flop his views,” said Sanders. In this year’s election, after weighing all the issues, Sanders and her entire family is rallying diligently for the re-election of President Obama; to her, it is a wonder some citizens are still unsure of who will win their vote. “I don’t see how people could still be undecided. In this election, healthcare is an important issue for me, because I believe that quality care is a right, not a privilege. I believe that is a major difference between the two candidates. Governor Romney is only looking on the surface of the issues and what is important for the elite. The President is willing to do his research on issues that matter to everyone in this country and go down to the pits. I haven’t had financial problems to the point that I’ve had to struggle for my next meal, but that’s not an excuse to treat people that have, differently. I want a President who is about the betterment of everyone, not just those that have elite statuses,” said Sanders.
Sanders believes that this election and photos with the First Lady, Michelle Obama, on the Obama campaign is interconnected with her visit to UNC Chapel Hill earlier this month. her family life. She plans to vote on Nov. 6, but does encourage citizens to vote early because Asked frequently to describe her it eliminates the excuse of “not having time encounters with the President, Sanders said, on Election Day.” “Even if you think voting is “To be honest, when the moment takes place, stupid, there’s no harm in voting anyway. Your it’s so surreal… every time I see the President vote could mean the difference between one speak [in person and not], it’s the same feeling candidate, and another,” said Sanders. as the first time.”
Sanders laughed as she recalled the picture that resulted from this event, “There’s a picture of my mom, with her mouth open and shaking [the President’s] hand. My sister and I This final debate was no different for her. are in the background, and it’s funny because Sanders, who plans to attend law school in the I remember talking about it, saying ‘We’ll future, admits that in the first debate, President probably never see him again.’” Obama faltered. However, she agrees with polls displayed on CNN.com that declared President Little did the Sanders know that they Obama the winner of the discussion on foreign would not only see the President again, but also policy. “The only thing that Governor Romney be photographed with him, and the First Lady, showed in the final debate is his ability to flip many more times in the upcoming years.
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8 |October 25th, 2012
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
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The Metaphorical Metamorphosis of Wale Christopher Lynn | Staff Writer
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Scotty McCreery.
Wale’s target audience is ale, born Olubowale In 2011 Wale signed with young, African-American females. Victor Akintimehin, is rapper Rick Ross’ Maybach MuHis lure was once his poetic style a relatively new mainsic Group. Whether or not Ross with lines like, “B*tches ain’t stream rap artist who first gained believes in something different can sh*t, but women ain’t b*tches. local celebrity status in 2006 with be debated, given he’s been rapping See, women are the queens, and his hit, “Dig Dug (Shake It).” Prior about the drug game consistently b*tches just b*tche.” In another of to the success of Wale’s “Dig Dug since 2006. his gems, he lays this classic line, (Shake It),” the D.C. born rapper “Black mother of the Earth, you released several mixtapes - “Paint In his earlier work, Wale know I forever owe ya; I will never a Picture” (2005), “Hate Is the New often made fun of label executives. ignore ya; cuz I’m forever loyal.” Love” (2006) and “100 Miles & His skit, “Tasty Skit,” pokes fun at Running,” all of which helped to a music label that is calling to sign However now that he is solidify his place in D.C.’s nomenhim. This skit includes someone apart of Maybach Music Group clature. from “Cliché Records,” that is look- it seems Wale has backtracked ing for artists with “Lil” or “Yung” on this poetic style. In the sum Arguably his biggest hit in their name, and in a subsequent mer hit, “No Hands,” Wale to date, “Nike Boots,” released in song, “The Skit (Untz Untz),” the boasts, “I slang that wood I just 2007, was a song truly representasame “Cliché’ Records” calls, asking nunchuck’em...I sweat no b*tches tive of Wale and his D.C. that sweat out weaves...I put it culture. With the release of It sounds like Wale has a case of on a train little engine could, this song, Wale was seen “LeBron-itis,” damning his own B*TCH!” Wale also spat some as being at the forefront of eyebrow-raising freestlye-lyrics city in hopes of success in another. on the “Make It Rain” beat, “She D.C., finally putting them Photo Courtsey of: Wikimedia Commons on the map in the rap game. The only difference between the two like me from that No Hands but Wale performing at Georgetown University’s Midnight is that in this case, Wale didn’t take imma need her to use no teeth,” Madness After signing with his talents with him to South Beach. blatantly referencing oral sex. his first major label, Interabout Wale repping for “his” city. scope Records for $1.3 mil While some argue that Wale The first track, Miami Nights,” an lion, in 2008, Wale released was saying things like that before ode to Miami, Fla. where his boss, “Chillin,” the first single signing with MMG, the point Rick Ross, resides. “Miami nights, from his album, Attention Deficit. him to make a “Crank That” song. subtlety and delivery should be it was all a dream.If I can get my Staying true to his D.C. roots, the Though funny and invigorating raised. In 2009, on “Rather Be With money right, I’m about to OD Little video for the single was filmed in 2007 and 2008, Wale’s creative You (Vagina Is for Lovers),” he raps more weed. First class seats, first in the heart of the Nation’s Capiantics became less funny when he a ballad to vagina. Funny? Yes, but class h*es, we on South Beach,” says tal, featuring local high schools, actually signed to a cliché’ type rap- nonetheless thought provoking and Wale. While this sounds like a great corner stores, and many of Wale’s per and label. not your average rapper’s sex song. place to be, this is not Wale’s city. hometown homies. The release of Attention Deficit was Wale’s emer Industry aside, Wale’s lyri Wale took a different ap On the second track, “D.C. gence on the scene as something cism is now also a topic of debate. proach to his female audience on or Nothing,” Wale paints a horrible fresh and new that hip-hop needed. his first album with MMG. In his picture of a poverty-stricken land However, his honeymoon with suc- Having always expressed a hit song “Lotus Flower Bomb,” the saying, “ When the city was chococess did not last long. disdain for wearing chains, Wale first thing he says is “I’ma rap to late, there was death in the air. All can be heard saying this in his you real quick. I wanna enjoy the I’m hearing is AIDS, I ain’t deaf in Released on Nov. 10, 2009, music in 2007, in his song “Warm- luxury of like, not really knowing my ear...Pray for peace with the Attention Deficit sold only 28,000 ing Up Cane,” saying, “I don’t wear each other for real.” For those not babies, they a beast in the summer. copies in its first week. The low jewels, too much conflict.” Only quick on the draw, this is an invita- “Of course he fiending for trouble, numbers were a result of a supthree years later, in 2010, Wale tion for a one-night stand. Wale he had a fiend for a mother...A’int posed under shipment of albums. switched things up in this line from gained fans with that song, but also nobody here leaidng, it’s way too In an interview with Honey Maga“The Soup,” saying, “They ask me lost some. easy to follow.” zine, Wale said, “We’re not going why I never wear chains, but if you for first week sales. We’re only brought up how I’m brought up, One thing that has re Sure Wale has shouted out shipping out 30,000 of them. We’re then you probably feel the same. mained consistent in the rapper’s D.C. in plenty of songs, but waits going for that grind. We’re showing And I ain’t saying chains suck, music however is that he has always until his second chance at stardom people that you can build a fan base probably get me three or four.” had D.C.’s back…right ? to vividly portray a wasteland of a the old fashioned way.” The same rapper who said city? Instead he praises Miami. Despite the seemingly posi- he would never wear chains be On one of his first songs tive attitude the rapper expressed cause of his upbringing, then turns ever, “Uptown Roamers,” Wale It sounds like Wale has a during his interview with Honey around in the very next line to say says, “District has arrived us, time case of “LeBron-itis,” damning his Magazine in regard to his low he’ll probably get three or four. to shine. Yeah, I am the nail forever own city in hopes of success in analbum sales, lyrics in his song, “The holdin em down”. Anyone who other. The only difference between Problem,” paint a different picture: Last year, on “Chain Music,” knows Wale knows he has always the two is that in this case, Wale “It’s just my fate, lemme chill, nah Wale said, “Keep a gold chain, h*es repped for D.C., and the DMV area didn’t take his talents with him to flip, my s**t was submarine like, changed, I didn’t.” Is Wale being ig- as a whole. South Beach. under ship.” norant, contradictory, or just plain dumb? Neither, he’s too smart for “The revolution will pro Wale left Interscope Rethat. On the same song, in the next ceed / unification of the DMV I cords saying, “They weren’t comline he also says, “They say karats will achieve indeed,” proclaimed petent enough to believe in somehelp your vision, but somehow it thing different.” Interscope employs made them listen.” Is he selling out the rapper in 2007. On his latest everyone from Lady Gaga, Dr. Dre, to sell? f Wale is selling out, whom album, Ambition two songs stand Soulja Boy and N.C. State’s own, exactly is he selling out to? out in particular when thinking