60.10 Spartan Echo by Spartan Echo

Spartan Echo The Voice of the Spartan Community

Vol. 60, I ssue 10

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Sequester expected to drain federal work-study and opportunity grants By Krysta Ricks

Junior guard Malcolm Hawkins becomes the second-leading scorer at NSU. See page 4. Photo Credit: Marian Jones-Brooks | The Spartan Echo.

Lamont Baldwin is a man of many talents.. See page 6. Photo credit: www. facebook.com/lamont. baldwin.9.

Hill Harper visits NSU as New Lyceum Series guest speaker By Krysta Ricks

From 2006 to 2008, NSU’s federal aid increased steadily. A significant decrease from 2008 to 2009 will be worsened by the budget cuts that resulted from the sequestration. (Data compiled from NSU Fact Book 2011-2012) Graphic credit: Krysta Ricks | Spartan Echo. Pendarvis “Penny” Williams’ was named 2013 MEAC Player of the Year See page 5. Photo credit: Credit: Marian Jones-Brooks | The Spartan Echo.

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SpartanEcho.org | 700 Park Avenue. Norfolk, Va. 23504

Congress was expected to pass a budget by March 27, but had to face a government shutdown when they missed the deadline. The cuts will affect all projects and programs that have a federal budget. The Budget Control Act of 2011 used sequestration to force Congress to cut the annual deficit by $1.2 trillion by the end of 2012. The automatic budget cuts that America is now facing are the result of the lawmakers’ failure to cut the deficit. One area expected to be affected greatly by the budget cuts is higher education. According to the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA), federal funding for the Supplemental Educational Op-

portunity Grant (SEOG) will be cut by an estimated $33.6 million and the federal workstudy program is projected to lose $37.6 million. The NASFAA released a report that listed the projected cuts to the SEOGs and workstudy programs of individual colleges and universities across the country. Some universities across the country will see a loss of work-study allocations in the six-digit range, but NSU’s projections look positive. “Fortunately, it [budget cuts] will not affect our work study funds,” said Work-Study Coordinator Shakehma Bonney. See Sequenster drains federal aid visits pa ge 2

Award-winning author, philanthropist and actor Hill Harper visited Norfolk State University on Thursday, Feb. 21, 2013. He was a guest speaker for the Honors College’s New Lyceum Series. Harper spoke to a small group of students before speaking to the public in the auditorium at the L. Douglas Wilder Performing Arts Center. Harper made the Q-and-A period more intimate by getting to know the students. He asked that they introduce themselves before asking questions, and he held real, personal conversations with them. During the conversation, Harper clarified the meaning behind his book, Letters to a Young Sister: DeFINE Your Destiny. Harper explained that women are often complimented by men because they expect something in return. Letters to a Young Sister was meant to be a compilation of empowering words for

Harper spoke to a small group of students before speaking to the public in the auditorium at the L. Douglas Wilder Performing Arts Center. Photo credit: Roland Drew | Spartan Echo.

women from a man who wants nothing from them. “That book was a platonic hug on paper,” said Harper. “It says ‘you’re amazing exactly how you are.’” See Harper visits pa ge 2

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Spartan News

Sequester drains federal aid ■ Continued from front page “As far as other aid, we are encouraging students to apply for financial aid early and take advantage of institutional aid as soon as possible.” Like the work-study estimates, some schools are expected to lose hundreds of thousands of SEOG provisions, while other institutions will not see any changes. For example, DeVry University will lose over 400,000 SEOGs. Norfolk State University’s numbers project an 11,467 drop in SEOG allocations but no loss of federal work-study allocations. Senior chemistry pre-med major Ashani Andrews feels that the budget cuts will affect NSU negatively if there are less grants available to help pay for school. “I believe that education opens the door for students’ future,” said Andrews. “If they [students] cannot fund their education, how can we expect

them to progress?” Others understand that though NSU is expected to lose federal funding, it is a relatively small amount in comparison to other universities. “A drop of 11,000 isn’t a lot if you’re looking at it on a large scale,” said computer science graduate student Jacque Lee. “But, at the same time, it’s going to affect so many students.” Though the cuts have already gone into effect, Congress can still pass laws to replace some of them. NASFAA President Justin Draeger does not see how additional laws will alleviate the burdens brought on by the budget cuts, however. “We have to move away from this environment where there is no predictability,” Draeger told USA Today College. “If [Congress] replaces the sequester with something, it is really unclear how that can mitigate the cuts.”

Harper visits

■ Continued from front page Harper talked about attending Harvard with President Obama. He knew at the time that Barack Obama would be great because of the way he carried himself. Harper told the students that the way people carry themselves today will ultimately affect who they become later in life. “Project yourself 20 years from now,” said Harper. “If that’s what you want to be, how will you have to act now?” One student asked why Hill Harper did not use his name for his charity, Manifest Your Destiny. Harper felt that his charity should be about his goal of empowerment and educational excellence, not his brand as a celebrity. “When you follow your path, you live your truth. You don’t

have to remind everyone of it,” said Harper. “When you’re living for your ego, you’re probably making the wrong decisions.” One of Harper’s most important pieces of advice was to work smart, not hard. He used a hole-in-the-wall analogy to drive home his point. “You can either bang your head against the wall repeatedly or drill a hole,” said Harper. “Both will result in a hole, but which is easier?” Harper then told the students that hard work should not be done for gratification. People should work to change lives. “If you can affect one person, that’s all you have to do,” said Harper. “If you get more, that’s icing on the cake.”

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Spartan Echo accepting applications for fall 2013 The Spartan Echo is accepting applications now for all editor positions (listed below). Editors will serve during the fall 2013 semester and receive a performance grant for their service. Amounts vary by position. Some work—done from home—will be necessary during the summer to prepare for the fall semester. Contact the faculty adviser at seopfer@nsu.edu or 757823-2444 for more detailed information. Students with previous professional or student media experience are strongly encouraged to apply, but previous experience is not necessary. Students from any major may apply. Applicants, however, must meet the minimum qualifications for all positions (listed below). Applications are available online from Student Activities and Leadership. http://www.nsu. edu/studentactivities/documents/SpartanEchoPublicationApplication.doc Applications will be accepted via e-mail at seopfer@nsu.edu, or in-person at MAD 282, through April 12. All potentially qualified applicants will be interviewed by the faculty adviser and must supply work samples at that time. Follow-up interviews and grammar testing may apply. Positions are awarded by the Student Publication Board after spring semester grades are posted.

Minimum Qualifications for All Positions

- pre-registered as a full-time NSU student for fall 2013 - 2.5 cumulative GPA or higher - 2.0 GPA or higher for spring 2013 - agreement to adhere to journalistic standards - ability to follow instructions and meet deadlines - time and dedication to perform staff duties

Preferred Qualifications for All Positions

- previously published as a journalist - medium-to-advanced computer literacy - leadership experience - ability to take photographs and email them - WordPress experience - Adobe Photoshop and In-Design experience - ability to shoot and edit video

Minimal Position Qualifications Editor-in-Chief: - leadership experience - administrative experience - student organization experience - copy editing experience - previously published as a journalist - mastery of Associated Press style - medium-to-advanced computer literacy - WordPress experience

Managing Editor: - leadership experience - copy editing experience - previously published as a journalist - mastery of Associated Press style - medium-to-advanced computer literacy - WordPress experience

Graphic Design/Layout Editor: - Adobe In-Design and Photoshop experience - newspaper layout/graphic design experience

Section Editor: - ability to gather information accurately from authoritative sources - ability to write journalistic material in Associated Press style - ability to edit copy according to Associated Press style - ability to recruit and supervise volunteer reporters - WordPress experience

Multimedia Editor: - photography/videography experience - experience writing captions with accuracy and clarity

SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu

Spartan News

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NSU opens Transfermation Center By Jermando Towler Norfolk State University had a ribbon cutting for the opening of the Transfermation Center Wednesday, Feb. 27, on the second floor of the Student Center. The Transfermation Center was developed to serve as a one-stop shop of assistance for all current and incoming transfer students at Norfolk State University. The Transfermation Center was completed two weeks ago and the employees eagerly awaited cannot wait the center’s opening to the student body. Transfer students are looking forward to having a place specifically designed for them.

In addition, transfer student Lanece Lawrence came from Tidewater Community College and plans to use the Tranfermation Center to her advantage. “Coming from a community college, I feel like I wasn’t getting the full college experience,” said Lawrence. “From the events, to learning the history of NSU, to seeing fraternities and sororities, you don’t get that at community college. I honestly think that if I wouldn’t have come to NSU after a year of community college, I would have dropped out.” Nosaze Knight, a former

transfer student and current senior counselor at Norfolk State University, is excited to help students with the same problems he faced as a student. “We want to be that sense of security for transfer students on campus. They can come here and ask the questions they need to know but are ashamed to ask,” Knight said. Knight feels that location will be the key to their success. “The Student Center is the perfect location because it is in the heart of the campus and they don’t have to travel across campus to reach us,” said Knight.

The Transfermation Center can also help transfer students find additional financial aid for transfer students including the Guaranteed Admissions Agreement. For the GAA, eligible students must be working toward an associate degree in a transfer-oriented program at a Virginia community college and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher. For current transfer students, a $1000 scholarship will be given to the student who refers the most incoming transfer students to Norfolk State University. As of now, the Transferma-

tion Center’s business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, the center plans to open one Saturday a month and one extra day a month during the evening for students who cannot make the regular business hours. The Transfermation Center plans to be heavily involved with new student orientation. The center is planning an information seminar in the near future. Until then, the center employees will be on the second floor of the Student Center waiting with a smile, a brochure in hand and counseling to offer.

SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu

Spartan Sports

3.19.13

Williams continues to be an impactful player By Marian Brooks

Hawkins went from averaging 2.8 points per game at the University of Delaware to being the secondleading scorer at NSU with 12.7 points per game. Photo Credit: Marian Jones-Brooks | The Spartan Echo.

“Going once, going twice, sold to the lucky fan in the front for $130!” Junior guard, Pendarvis “Penny” Williams, who remains an impactful player for the NSU men’s basketball team, stole the show on Feb. 12 at the StudentAthlete Auction. “I like the support from fans at home, unlike away fans who always tell me I’m too skinny,” said Williams. His mindset has changed since last year. “I wasn’t the first option since we had Kyle [O’Quinn] and Chris [McEachin], but now I assert myself more,” said Williams.

Williams is the 2013 MEAC Player of the Year making it the second year in a row that MEAC Player of the year was from NSU. Williams’ favorite players are Derrick Rose and LeBron James. Each player has different components to their game. Williams will have to elevate his game at the next level. “I need that post game and I need to get stronger and faster with lateral quickness. There is always room for improvement,” said Williams. “People doubted us. The MEAC picked us fourth, and even though we lost four starters, our hard work has allowed us to

play well,” said Williams. NSU was the only school offering him a primary role during the recruiting process. “I play hard and make other schools regret that they slept on me,” said Williams. Regret is a good way to describe the way other schools may feel since multiple sites pop up when the keywords “Pendarvis Williams” and “NBA prospect” are entered into any search engine. “I’m just working hard and hopefully, I’ll get the chance. It’s my dream,” said Williams. “I just pray on it.”

Junior guard Malcolm Hawkins Hawkins flourishes in new surroundings By Leonard Fairley Very few players around the country have seen improvement from last season to this season like junior guard Malcolm Hawkins. The former Norview High School star went from averaging 2.8 points per game at the University of Delaware to being the second-leading scorer at NSU with 12.7 points per game. After sitting out last season due to NCAA transfer rules, Hawkins has become an integral part of NSU’s campaign to become repeat MEAC champions. Hawkins formed a solid trio of scoring options for the Spartans with junior guard Pendarvis Wil-

liams and senior forward Rob Johnson. His game is a mix of Johnson and Williams, respectively. Hawkins is always on attack mode, which gives him Johnson’s competitive edge. He also has the shooting touch and accuracy of Williams. Hawkins has led the team in three point shooting percentage. He is one of the best defenders, holding one of the top players in the country, Brandon Paul from Illinois, to 14 points on

See Hawkins page 5

fl ouri s hes

Pendarvis “Penny” Williams’ was named 2013 MEAC Player of the Year and his name appears on multiple sports analyst sites as a NBA prospect. Photo Credit: Marian Jones-Brooks | The Spartan Echo.

SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu

3.19.13

Spartan Sports

Hawkins flourishes ■ Continued from page 4

4-14 shooting. The addition of Hawkins this year has invoked thoughts of last year’s sharpshooting guard, Chris McEachin, who is now playing overseas in Europe. Both attended Norview High School and are very close. “Mac is like my big brother,” Hawkins said. “I look up to him because he’s overcome adversity and difficulty, transferred back home like I did and has two rings at two different schools. [It] is amazing to me.” Like McEachin, Hawkins has his own celebration after made three point baskets; however, his is for a different reason. “It was something I made up,” said Hawkins. “A good friend passed away in January, so I dedicate every three to him across my chest.” Hawkins was not alone in sitting out. Junior guard and Norfolk native Mareese Phelps also joined the team last year. “We really help each other every day with adjusting to NSU since we transferred here,” said Phelps. “We push each other on and off the court, accept criticism from each other and enjoy a lot of good times. We are basically brothers.” Hawkins considers playing at home a blessing and he enjoys being able to perform with family and friends watching. “My biggest influence is my mom,” said Hawkins. “I look up to her for not only raising me, but also for going back to school to get her master’s.” As the Spartans continue their quest for their second MEAC title, Hawkins will have to continue his stellar play. Despite the fact that ball players can be proud sometimes, Hawkins is really a humble guy. “I have no hard feelings toward Delaware, [but] transferring was definitely worth it,” said Hawkins. “I am thankful to Coach Evans for the opportunity to play. [I’m] happy to start 12-0 and compete for a MEAC title.”

SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu

Lifestyle

3.19.13

Isabel Marant high top sneaker wedges:

Hot or not? By Mia Monk Each year fashion designers try to bring innovative, trendy new looks to the runway and hopefully, into the closets of eager buyers. Sometimes these looks can send these shoppers running the other way. Isabel Marant high top sneaker wedges have been spotted on the feet of Hollywood’s hottest stars. Beyoncé, Ashlee Simpson, Kate Bosworth and more pair the sneaker wedges with casual ‘fits and snazzy get-ups. Prada, Nike and Steve Madden are just a few of the top brands who have jumped on the bandwagon of the Marantinspired shoe. Whether designed with vibrant colors and patterns or stitched, denim patchwork, the shoes are undoubtedly a work of art. But did these shoes earn their place in fashion’s credible “hot spot?” Numerous reviews about this fancy footwork have appeared on blogs, YouTube, Facebook and fashion sites. “They are the ugliest shoes I’ve ever seen in my life,” said senior Blaque Watson. While others might think See Marant Wedges p a ge 7

President of the Pre-Alumni Associatiion Amy Street poses with the Director of Alumni Association Michelle D. Hill (middle) and Maurice C. Hawkins. Jr. associate director (right). Photo Credit: Jasmine Battle | Spartan Echo.

NSU Alumni Association, Pre-Alumni Association connects grad students and current Spartans By Jasmine Battle The NSU Alumni Association is an organization that strives to keep NSU graduates connected to each other and the university by dispersing university information throughout the year. Staying connected with friends and mentors after graduation is one of the most important things to remember after walking across the stage, and the NSUAA prides itself on helping to bridge the gap between current and former students. One mission of the NSUAA is to give back to the university. Through this organiza-

tion, NSU graduates are given the opportunity to share their prosperity with the university through scholarships and pledges. Through the NSUAA students are not limited to just giving back; they can take part in events on campus and keep in contact with fellow graduates. “Whatever students are trying to pursue or take part in, it is out there in the alumni network. They are not alone. They have help through the association,” said sophomore PreAlumni Association President Amy Street.

The Pre-Alumni Association prepares students to be alumni when they are officially out of school. It is especially beneficial to graduates who wish to participate in activities once they leave the university. “It is important for students to take part in activities such as the Alumni Association so they can be connected to their alma mater,” said Ms. Laverne Moore, constituent services coordinator. “Even if graduates contribute a little bit, it can always help.” Some students shy away from taking part in the PreAlumni Association because

they would rather participate in other activities on campus like Greek organizations and departmental clubs while they are young. Street believes that getting involved helps students become an example for others. “It starts with one. I believe I was that one to be able to give back by opening up the opportunity for my peers,” said Street. “This is only my second year being at NSU.” Students can join the NSUAA by filling out the membership application at http://alumni. nsu.edu/.

SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu

3.19.13

Lifestyle

NSU dance marathon receives some adverse student responses By Jasmine Battle Norfolk state is hosting a dance marathon this April for The Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters, which admits children with complex conditions and major injuries. During NSU’s “activity hour,” flyers about the dance marathon were scattered on the floor of the Student Center. The dance marathon received mixed reviews from the student body. Because the event will be to support children, the behavior at the event is expected to be wholesome. However, some college students hear the word “dance” and automatically think of a party. The dance marathon participants will be expected to dance appropriately. This means line dances and moves that do not resemble sexual acts. It seems the opportunity to help those in need, however, is not enough to entice some students. A dance marathon volunteer was passing out flyers and speaking about the event when some students turned away and said, “I’m not going if we can’t twerk.” Participation is not the only area where event volunteers have been having a difficult time gather-

ing support. When asked to make a small donation, many people tend to shy away. The enthusiasm of volunteering for a cause that does not necessarily benefit oneself has become almost non-existent. “People don’t want to contribute if they aren’t benefiting. Sometimes they just care about themselves,” said junior music media major Ciara Alexander. Events like the dance marathon are often overlooked by students who do not see the opportunity for what it really is. In helping causes greater than themselves, people almost always get something out of it. “We need to get out and volunteer not only on campus but in the community as well,” said junior biology major Janae French. “You will learn more once you put yourself out there for the right reasons.” Students and individuals throughout the Hampton Roads community can sign up to participate in the dance contest online. Donations in any amount are accepted as well. The contributions will go to The Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters.

SpartanCreations Rise in Love A poem by Jarel ‘Oil Spill' Barnes

Let's erase Isaac Newton from history and pretend that gravity never existed.. Because I have a new theory in mind.. And the hypothesis is very simple... Her smile is like a fallen crescent moon that fell out of orbit... And landed into my heart... Her eyes are like sunlight in the middle of a new universe.. And in the midst of many stars my love is heliocentric.. Our pupils dialated like two black holes in love with each other Because our eyes like to play freeze tag... Like cryogenic oceans caressing Mars silhouette thousands of years ago... Somehow she gets under my skin.... With chills...

As a result, the molecules in my breath don't vibrate quite as fast Because the alveoli sacs in my lungs explode like a billion mini polar winds.. Luminating words of poetry.... To describe my love for her... Clouded thoughts of beauty Originating from this nebula of a possiblilty of her and me.. Metaphorically creating a star Of this relationship... Celestially speaking, I feel like I just moonwalked the pearly gates... Dapped up St. Pete Because I found a good thing But I look down and see we are still standing on earth... So until then... I grab her hand... Kiss her And tell her.. Lets Rise in Love

Marant Wedges

■ Continued from page 6 the quirky sneaker wedges should be wedged in between two trashcans, others love the unique marriage of a tennis shoe and a wedge heel. “I love them! I own a pair and they’re so cute and comfortable. I don’t get why everyone thinks they’re weird,” said senior Kayla Mond. A random Instagram survey

confirmed that high top sneaker wedges are not hot. Within minutes of posting a picture of various sneaker wedges, users began to comment. Every single user said not. Bottom line: Whether styled by Marant, Prada, Steve Madden or Nike, sneakers wedges are a definite not.

editors Krysta Ricks Editor-inChief

Brittany Elmore Online/ Managing Editor

Jasmine Battle Lifestyle Editor

Marian JonesBrooks Sports Editor

Keith Offutt Multimedia Editor

Tony Batchler Jr. Entertainment Editor DeVanique Riley Graphic Design/ Layout Editor

Interested in writing for the Spartan Echo? Join our team! Meetings are Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12:30 in NSC 344.

SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu

Spartan Entertainment

Spartan Spotlight

Willow Smith turns down Annie movie role

Movie forecast 2013: Cloudy with a chance of cliché

By Tony Batchler, Jr. After hitting an astonishing 11 on the US Billboard Baldwin is the only NSU stuHot 100, and earndent at Hot91 that is on the ing the number air Monday through Friday. Photo credit: www.facebook. five spot on the US com/lamont.baldwin.9. R&B charts for her debut single “Whip By Tony Batchler, Jr. My Hair,” child star Lamont Baldwin is a man of many talents. The senior mass Willow Smith stole communications student hosts the hearts of many. his own show on Hot91, conHer performance on The tributes to Black Enterprise’s Oprah Winfrey Show and for website and produces his new the Kids Choice Awards in web series, Guy Confidential. Baldwin was also a host for April 2011, made her Hollythe Teen News Now program wood’s hottest child star. on The CW as well as a student According to Deadline New host for the BET college tour York, Willow was offered the when they stopped at NSU. leading role of the musical Baldwin is the only NSU student at Hot91 that is on the air remake “Annie.” The movie would be developed by Will Monday through Friday. “It’s huge, because I’m on and Jada Pinkett Smith’s comHot91 with veterans like Magoo, pany Overbrook EntertainJ-Rod and Herman “no trouble” ment, and Jay-Z. from 103jamz,” said Baldwin. “The time is right to bring “These people are like Hampton back Annie to the big screen,” Roads staples as far as Dj’s and personalities, so I feel that it is Columbia Pictures Doug Belan honor to be up there.” gard said. As a contributor for Black EnHe went on to say that she is terprise he has had the chance to interview celebrities such as such a great talent and that she Kandi Burruss from The Real would be perfect for the role. Housewives of Atlanta and CarJay-Z said, “The Overbrook los King, co-executive producer Entertainment family and I for Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta, have a unified vision. We’ve Don’t Be Tardy for the Wedding and producer for the last season already produced a Tony Award-winning play and we’re of The Oprah Winfrey Show. “An easy comparison would be developing a true superstar in a guy version of The View,” said Willow. The venture into film Baldwin about his show Guy development and production is Confidential. The difference between The View and Guy Confidential is that Guy Confidential is merged with reality television. Baldwin does not really feel like a celebrity on campus. “I feel like radio is different from television. With television people recognize you and in radio no one really does, especially if you don’t sound the same.” Baldwin is not chasing a dream for the fame, however. He is ambitious for his own reason. “I’m always trying to add another hyphen to my name,” said Baldwin.

Willow Smith attends the Narciso Rodriguez fall 2013 fashion show on Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2013 in New York. (Photo by Charles Sykes/ Invision/AP)

a perfect next step with teams that are accomplished, creative and innovative.” The big plans for the Annie remake were halted when Willow Smith turned the movie role down. Why would she turn down a role like “Annie?” The answer is simple: She just wants to be a normal kid. Opening up for Justin Bieber and singing in front of thousands of fans would be hard for anyone, especially at 12 years old. Will Smith said in an article by Keith Nelson on AllHipHop.com that it was all Willow’s idea. “I said no, no, no, listen, you’ll be in New York with all of your friends and Beyonce will be there,” said Smith. “You will be singing and dancing. And she looked at me and said, ‘Daddy, I have a better idea. How about I just be 12?”’

3.19.13

By Bethany Cartwright

Spring breakers, Tyler Perry’s Temptation and G.I. Joe: Retaliation are expected to be the hottest movies in the spring. Photo credit for movie covers: www.facebook.com/ springbreakersthemovie , www.facebook.com/temptation, www.facebook. com/gijoeretaliationthemovie. Graphic by Roland Drew, Deputy Graphic Design/ Layout Editor.

Can’t wait for some sunny, new and amazing movies this year? Good luck, because this year’s movie forecast is sure to bring storms you’ve seen before. The films premiering in 2013 so far are a bit worrying regarding for the rest of the year, and not without reason. Movieinsider.com lets us know this year will be “filled with prequels, sequels, reboots, remakes and films based on established properties.” Remakes are like rain; for a couple days it isn’t a problem, but a year of rain will make you want to never leave your home. And five minutes of watching Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters was enough to know I should have taken a rain check. This remake of the fairytale of two children and a house made of candy, who somehow grow into violent witch hunters, was riddled with more clichés and catch phrases than I could count. I have seen straight-to-DVD movies with more creativity. If this is setting the tone for the year, how much sun are we actually going to see? Is Jack the Giant Slayer going to bring beach weather? Is 21 and Over, a film very similar to The Hangover, going to inspire a heat wave? Maybe Hunger Games: Catching Fire will brighten up the sky? Maybe. Maybe not. Where’s the silver lining? Weather forecasts tend to not be 100% true. But you still might want to grab your umbrella.

SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu