60.2 Spartan Echo

Spartan Echo The Voice of the Spartan Community

Vol. 60, I ssue 2

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

9.19.12

PRESIDENT OBAMA VISITS NORFOLK STATE By: Bethany Cartwright

President Barack Obama held a grassroots event at Norfolk State University on Tuesday, Sept. 4, as a part of his “Road to Charlotte” tour, signifying the first time a United States president has visited the university.

The focus of Obama’s address was similar to what many in the crowd chanted as he stepped on the stage: four more years.

“We have come too far to turn back now. We have got a lot more young people to send to college,” said Obama.

Obama expressed that his administration has been working hard to make life better for middle-class families and that it is now their responsibility to vote so they can continue to work hard. His other focus, edPresident Barack Obama visited Norfolk State University, the final ucation for the middle class, did stop on his “Road to Charlotte” tour, on Tuesday, Sept. 4. The grassroots event was scheduled in order to lay out what is at stake not go unnoticed by students. for the middle class in the 2012 election. The president stressed “He is all about education. We that a strong middle class is essential to a strong economy.|Photo cannot move forward without

by Keith Offutt/The Spartan Echo

it,” said junior nutrition exercise science major Yasmine Charles.

Obama mentioned Republican opponent Mitt Romney’s comment on borrowing money from parents for tuition, stating that his administration cares more about the needs of a student.

“We believe in an America where going to school doesn’t depend on how much money you have,” said Obama.

Over 11,000 campaign supporters crowded the Madison Quad for Obama’s address, some at the cost of their health. High temperatures and lack of water sent 18 supporters to the hospital.

The excitement, however, was palpable. “[Obama’s visit] is a significant achievement. I hope the students realize the importance of this historic event. It

is something they’ll be able to tell their children,” said Faith Fitzgerald, director of Residence Life and Housing.

Some Obama supporters believed that the president’s presence on campus was related to the NCAA championships last season.

“This is an exciting event for NSU to have a president come to our campus,” said Athletic Director Marty Miller. “It is more significant after the season we had. It is just a great feeling.”

Others believed this visit had more to do with Virginia’s vital role in Obama’s re-election than sports. According to Congressman Bobby Scott, Virginia being a crucial deciding factor is enough for more than one visit.

“If the president secures Virginia he will almost certainly secure the election.

He will be back,” said Scott.

STUDENTS UNINFORMED, BUT REGISTERED TO VOTE By: Ashley Clarke

Norfolk State University has made an effort to encourage student involvement at the polls.

Multiple campus events were held in order to raise awareness among students about exercising their right to vote. Students have been encouraged to turn out in record numbers once again to ensure that the youth population is heard in Nov. 2012.

The young population’s vote would mean much more in this election if they take the time to become more edu-

cated about the political realm instead of voting because they were being pushed to become involved in something they do not fully understand.

It is expected that most Norfolk State students will vote democratic based on the demographics of the student body and the surrounding area.

The Democratic Party tends to garner more support from middle class, African-Americans than the Republican Party.

This trend may encourage students to choose allegiance with-

out much knowledge of their preferred party or candidate.

The Spartan Echo randomly selected and surveyed students to determine just how much students know about their candidate of choice.

Students were asked to explain one to three specific policies supported by their preferred presidential candidate.

The least specific answers received ranged from “N/A” to “general policies.” Slightly more knowledgeable answers included broad ideas such as

“health care” and “education.”

Only one of the students surveyed listed specific policies supported by their preferred candidate.

This individual listed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the DoddFrank Wall Street Reform Act. This student also indicated that he or she was not currently registered to vote in the upcoming presidential election, unlike the students who answered vaguely.

Both presidential candi-

dates have definitive viewpoints of health care, education and other issues.

These viewpoints may be found and analyzed in detail on each of the candidate’s campaign websites.

Students are encouraged to visit the sites and other sources in order to make themselves aware of each candidate’s platform to ensure that their vote is based off an informed decision on Nov. 6, 2012.

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

Spartan Opinion

2

editors Krysta Ricks Editor-inChief

YouTube

video controversy: S*** WHITE GIRLS SAY TO BLACK GIRLS By: Ashley Clarke

After dozens of “S*** people say” videos surfaced on YouTube, Franchesca Ramsey, a designer, blogger and graduate of Miami International University, made “S*** White Girls Say to Black Girls” and sparked controversy across the country. Black women discuss the stereotypical comments white women have made to them over the years. |Photo by Keith Offutt/The Spartan Echo

Bethany Cartwright Managing Editor

Ashley Clarke News Editor

Brittany Elmore Student Life Editor

Marian JonesBrooks Sports Editor

Keith Offutt Multimedia Editor

Briaun Rooks Entertainment Editor DeVanique Riley Graphics Design/ Layout Editor

9.19.12

Social media met freedom of expression and gave birth to “S*** white girls say…to black girls.” “It is so stereotypical!” you may say. “Not all white girls are like that!” Of course not. Hence the term “stereotype.” Besides, when is funny not stereotypical?

In the real world, no one really wants to be labeled a stereotype. However, some people are so stuck in their personal bubbles of people who act, talk, walk and look like them that they become the poster child for the very stereotypical behaviors they once sought to avoid.

Franchesca Leigh Ramsey

made a YouTube video poking fun at the stereotypically black things that white girls may point out to their black friends after viewing another YouTube video titled, “S*** Girls Say.” Ramsey modeled the character in her video after her best friend, a white girl.

In the video she asked questions like, “Is this all your hair?” and made statements like, “You’re not even really black.”

Ramsey mimicked the people that are so blinded by stereotypes that they do not even realize how ignorant they sound.

Does it send out a negative message? It can be perceived

that way. According to Ramsey, who defended her video on an episode of “Anderson Live,” that is sometimes what it takes to get a simple point across.

Of all races and genders, most black women have come across that one person that cannot seem to keep ignorant comments from escaping his or her mouth. I did not know anyone could be so stupid until the seventh grade when my family moved to northern Indiana.

I met a girl who had no filter.

My hair was braided most of the time, and this poor girl had the audacity to ask, “Do black people just naturally know how

to cornrow or did someone have to teach you?” A vast array of profane language rushed to my head but unlike her I actually had a filter. I simply told her that, yes, someone had to teach me, and no, we are not some kind of exotic species with special instincts different from the rest of humankind.

She may not have meant any harm by it, but the solution to avoiding stupid comments like hers and the need for videos like Franchesca Ramsey’s is simple: remember there are differences between all of us and think before you speak.

ARE NSU STUDENTS GETTING LESS “BANG” FOR THEIR BUCK? BY: BRITTANY ELMORE When the semester starts, students expect to recognize the potential of each class and professor upon the first meeting. Arriving to a class with a professor who is unprepared and uninterested can deflate the potential students feel.

Unfortunately, this is a familiar feeling to many students. Not all professors are

guilty of these actions, but there are enough to make it a problem that needs to be fixed.

Habitual tardiness, unpreparedness and a lack of enthusiasm for the class are major issues in the classroom. One of my professors even showed up to class twenty minutes late, unsure if he was in the correct class, with an incor-

rect roster and no syllabus on the first day of class. The only thing he seemed to have an abundance of was excuses.

Situations like this make me wonder what students are really paying for. It also makes me wonder what standards educators are being held to. I find myself left with more questions than answers

at the end of some classes.

I do not feel that students need to have their hands held throughout the semester. We should be treated like responsible adults. However, having a professor that shows interest in their area of expertise and who is prepared for class would be a nice change of pace.

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

9.19.12

Spartan News

3

REPUBLICAN SENATE NOMINEE TODD AKIN MAKES INSENSITIVE RAPE COMMENTS

By: Ashley Clarke

GOP Senate nominee Rep. Todd Akin (R-Mo.) made statements in an interview with KTVI-TV that drew extreme controversy and pain to American citizens, especially women with strong feelings toward rape and abortion.

“If it’s a legitimate rape, the female body has ways to try to shut that whole thing down,” said Akin. He also claimed that in his understanding, pregnancy from a rape is rare.

“From what I understand from doctors, that’s really rare,” said Akin.

Later, after his original comments sparked a fury of controversy, he apologized using a very general statement.

“The fact is, rape can lead to pregnancy,” said Akin.

Senior biology major, Danielle Sticha, felt that it would be a violation of civil rights to force a woman to birth a child

that was the result of a rape.

“Who wants to carry around a child that came from a rape?” said Sticha.

Akin also defended his position by saying that even in the case of rape, the rapist should be punished, not the resulting child.

“But let’s assume maybe that didn’t work or something. I think there should be some punishment, but the punishment ought to be on the rapist,” said Akin.

“Sometimes you never catch a rapist,” Sticha said in response to Akin’s comments.

“Even if you do, they might get jail time, but when you look at that baby you’re going to think, ‘You are here because your daddy raped me.’”

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) contrasted Akin’s comments with a state-

The Missouri Farm Bureau reaffirmed its endorsement of Missouri Senate candidate Todd Akin on Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2012, after the Republican congressman made remarks about women’s bodies being able to avoid pregnancy in cases of what he called “legitimate rape.” (AP Photo/Sid Hastings) ment release which read, “Each year in the U.S., 10,000-15,000 abortions occur among women whose pregnancies are a result

of reported rape or incest.”

The ACOG also reported that this number does not include the rape-induced-pregnancies which are carried to

term. The ACOG, refuting Akin’s original comments, said that to suggest that rape does not lead to pregnancy “contradicts basic biological truths.”

MISSION TO MARS WILL SPEND LESS TAX DOLLARS AND ENCOURAGE MORE RESEARCH By: Ashley Clarke

After the landing of the Curiosity space rover on Mars, Americans have been divided over the question of “to explore, or not to explore.” The rover was cleverly named “Curiosity,” hinting that there are no political goals in the exploration of Mars.

Senior nursing major, Danielle Johnson, is in the “not to explore” category. She said that she does not believe that there ever was any life on the planet Mars.

“There are better things that money can be spent on, like health care or

education,” she said.

President Barack Obama has suggested on multiple occasions that the Mars mission is strictly scientific in nature and will be beneficial for the nation as a whole, especially the youth. In 2010, two years before the Curiosity touched down on Mars, President Obama made a statement denying the idea that we are involved in a second “space race” like the race to the moon in the 1960s.

“The challenges facing our space program are different,

“We’re no longer racing against an adversary.

We’re no longer competing to achieve a singular goal like reaching the moon. In fact, what was once a global competition has long since become a global collaboration...”

-Barack Obama

and our imperatives for this program are different than in decades past. We’re no longer racing against an adversary.

We’re no longer competing to achieve a singular goal like reaching the moon. In fact, what was once a global competition has long since become a global collaboration,” said Obama.

On Aug. 6, 2012, following the successful landing of the Curiosity rover, President Obama made another statement which suggested that the government will be relying less on citizens’ tax dol-

lars for exploration funding.

“Tonight’s success, delivered

by NASA, parallels our major steps forward towards a vision for a new partnership with American companies to send American astronauts into space.

That partnership will save tax payers’ dollars,” said Obama.

President Obama also believes that the Mars mission will “advance his goals of improving education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics” according to NASA.gov.

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

Spartan Sports

4 BEYOND THE BALL WITH

AJ ROGERS

AJ Rogers, a Spartan Echo correspondent and a forward on the NSU men’s basketball team, details NSU athletes’ lives once the clock stops.

As Norfolk State University begins a new academic year, spirits are high for excellence both in and out of the classroom. NSU ended last year on a high note after being crowned MEAC champs in men’s basketball and football, cross country, track and bowling. The men’s basketball team also made it to the NCAA tournament.

Along with this historic performance, the basketball team had its star center, Kyle O’Quinn, drafted into the NBA. Although it took much practice and hard work for these teams to excel, the true key to their success was their status in the classroom.

Some students feel that athletes are able to slack off and still get high grades in order to remain eligible. This is an understandable assumption considering that students see how athletes get scholarship money and have their books and classes paid for without really shelling out much money out-of-pocket.

What students too often fail to recognize is the extra work that athletes put into their craft. Along with the hard athletic work, it is expected that all athletes perform at their highest academic potential in the classroom.

“In order to be successful in college, student athletes have to be more organized than the average student,” said Terrence Pugh, a senior on the NSU football team.

Athletes’ GPAs are monitored to maintain eligibility.

Those with low GPAs run the risk of losing their scholarship. From the point of view of student-athletes, excelling in the classroom is essential if success on their respective “fields” will ever be achieved.

9.19.12

Cross country conquers,

one stride at a time By: Marian Brooks

NSU’s cross country team has shown consistent success over the years and head coach Kenneth Giles has found the right combination of athletes and an impeccable system to ensure championship repeats as the Spartans look to capture their fifth straight title this 2012 season.

The team has five letter winner’s returning to help lead the team to another title.

“Winning is our primary focus. With a veteran team all of us are going to help the freshmen and show them the way of doing things, the way of winning,” said senior Vincent Rono.

Although they lost top MEAC performers Josef Tessema and Philemon Kimutai from last season, they gained five newcomers. According to nsuspartans.com coach Giles is confident that the incoming talent such as junior Kipchirchir Kiptoo, an SEC all-freshman team transfer from Ole Miss, will make an immediate impact.

Peter Koskey is anoth-

er out-of-state transfer from the Kaplong Boy Secondary School in Nairobi, Kenya. The remaining newcomers are Virginia natives. Aaron Dudley is from Deep Creek High School in Suffolk. Desmond Fogg is from Warwick High School in Newport News and Marquis Worsley is a product of Norview High School in Norfolk.

Each runner is expected to be a dynamic asset to the team.

The team has no plans to deviate from the championship-winning system that has been in place for so long.

“There is no such thing as a big challenge within the MEAC because we have strong people who have been running in college.” said Rono. “As long as the freshmen follow in our footsteps, we will be fine.”

Workouts have become more challenging because their goals are higher.

“Our preparation hasn’t changed but workouts are harder,” said senior Kameron George. They went from doing 45-minute runs once a day to 60-minute runs every practice.

NSU’s cross country team has picked up the pace in hopes of repeating its past MEAC successes in the 2012 season. | Photo credit: Keith Offutt/The Spartan Echo

Both Rono and George agree that the coaches are very understanding, well prepared listeners. They serve as a support system. They know the objective and how to handle the team as a whole.

“They don’t show favoritism and they understand that everyone isn’t at the same level so they try and encourage them

“There is no such thing as a big challenge within the MEAC because we have strong people who have been running in college...”

-Vincent Rono to keep up,” said George.

Cross country lacks stands and big crowds, so different methods of motivation are

especially important. It is dependent upon endurance and relies heavily on mental toughness and strategy.

“Strategy is very important because you have to know when to pick it up at various points like after the three mile mark,” said Rono.

The team has made its presence known in the MEAC, but the Spartans are not stopping there. The next step is to conquer regionals. The Spartans finished 20th at the NCAA Southeast Regional Championship in 2011.

Preparation, training and honing in on the Regional Championship title is the team’s top priority. Competing in the Pre-National Meet in October will help better prepare the team’s stamina and sustainment in the postseason.

volleyball captains armstead and kessner

discuss bouncing back in 2012

By: Marian Brooks

The Lady Spartans finished fifth in the MEAC Northern division and fell short on qualifying for the tournament. However, they are ready to bounce back and become a force to be reckoned with in the MEAC despite being picked to finish 4th.

“This season is about leaving a legacy at NSU and making history,” said red-shirt senior Nicole Kessner. “I came back to win a ring and that is what my teammates and I are here to do.”

Kessner suffered a seasonending knee injury and is now

ready to lead the team in her fifth year as one of the primary setters.

“I think Charlotte played a major role in my absence because she had to take on my roles on and off the court,” said Kessner of senior Charlotte Armsstead. “She stepped up and did a wonderful job.”

Armstead is a powerful, game-changing hitter and another experienced leader on the team.

“I want this senior class to be one that is talked about for years down the road,” said Armstead. She and Kessner

are two of five seniors and they are both captains. Armstead acknowledged that last year’s disappointing finish is also driving her to make this year that much better.

Armstead and Kessner are excited about the six recruits and the skills each girl will bring to the team.

The team’s motto is “Fearless” because they are afraid of nothing and accept all challenges. The coaches feel that a strong, consistent defense will separate them and put them above the rest. Both Kessner and Armstead agree that of-

fense wins games but defense wins championships.

Fan support is crucial and playing in a packed gym really makes a difference.

“Our best home games last year were in front of our biggest crowds,” said Armstead.

The Lady Spartans plan to be on the list of NSU’s MEAC titles. Athletes and fans have been saying, “It is the year of the Spartans.” To Kessner and Armstead, that means that winning a championship is their only option.

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

Spartan Sports

9.19.12

5

nsu men’s a look at nsu’s basketball

running and receiving:

victorious in the bahamas By: Leonard Fairley, Deputy Sports Editor While most Norfolk State University students were preparing to return for the fall semester, NSU’s men’s basketball team took a weeklong trip from Aug. 8 to Aug. 13 to the Bahamas to play in three exhibition games.

“This trip gave us the opportunity to play early, help our returners and newcomers gain some experience and allow some of our student athletes to enjoy the Bahamas,” said Anthony Evans, head coach of the men’s basketball team.

The team went 3-0 and had three convincing wins over Summer of Thunder, PJ Stringers and the Grand Bahama All-Stars, three select teams from the Bahamas.

“It is hard to tell this early how we will be this year, but I would rate our performance a C+ based on our potential and what we are capable of,” said senior Rob Johnson, whose blog on the trip can be found on NSU’s athletic website.

In the 82-68 win over Summer of Thunder, senior Kris Brown led the way with 18 points. Junior Pendarvis Williams and junior college transfer Zieyik Estime each had 13 points and junior Jordan Weathers chipped in with 10 points. Senior AJ Rogers also added 10 rebounds to the effort.

They then followed up with another solid performance in a 99-67 rout of PJ Stringers.

Sophomore Jamel Fuentes had a stellar all-around performance with eight points, nine assists and five steals.

Zieyik Estime led NSU in scoring with 17 points and six other players joined him in scoring double figures.

“I played solid in the Ba-

hamas, but I could’ve been better,” said Fuentes. “I’m still adjusting to my more expanded role and having more freedom to run the team; however, I’m excited about this upcoming season.”

In the last game, an 85-74 victory over the Grand Bahama All-Stars, Pendarvis Williams played a terrific game and finished with 24 points, 11 rebounds and five assists. NSU controlled the whole game and was up by 24 points at one point before a late run to close the gap.

Many players showed improvement on this trip, especially guards Kris Brown and Jordan Weathers, who each scored in double figures in the first two games. In addition, junior Brandon Goode looks to fill the big shoes left by NBA draft pick, Kyle O’Quinn.

“The team is ready to step up to the challenge of losing key players from last year,” said Brown. “We will succeed this year as we continue to play team ball.”

In addition to the improvement of the returners, newcomer Zieyik Estime will add more offensive firepower to the roster. He capped off a hot shooting trip with 15 points in the final game.

“Zieyik played well in the Bahamas,” Evans said. “He played good defense, rebounded well and gave a positive contribution on offense.”

Though they lost four of five starters and a key reserve, NSU looks to be a formidable force again in the MEAC. “I think we’ll be good enough to decide our own fate and compete to win the MEAC title again,” Johnson said. “A repeat title is the ultimate goal.”

top ball carriers By: Marian Brooks

Spartan football is looking to do damage with some dominant players in the wide receiver and running back positions. On the depth chart, the top receivers are Xavier Boyce and Reggie Garret. Takeem Hedgeman and Randy Maynes are looking to get the majority of the playing time at the running back position.

All four players are seniors with on-the-field experience.

First on the depth chart is red-shirt senior Xavier Boyce.

Boyce is a wide receiver who earned first team MEAC and HBCU All-American honors.

Last season Boyce led the team with 68 receptions, the most by a Spartan in the division one period. Averaging 5.7 catches per game landed Boyce 25th in the nation in that category.

“My focus is winning at the national level, hopefully staying healthy and pursuing my NFL dreams by training after the season is over,” said Boyce.

Boyce understands that

his role is to help out anywhere he can, be a play maker and block. At 6 feet four inches tall, Boyce towers over many of his opponents.

“My height advantage is a definite plus because most of the corners and defensive backs I play against are on average five feet eight inches tall,” said Boyce.

Red-shirt senior Reggie Garret is a possession receiver.

Continued on p. 7

six meac titles means

BIG BUCKS for norfolk state By: Marian Brooks

Six MEAC championships put NSU in the national spotlight, attracted a greater caliber of athletes and generated revenue. According to Athletic Director Marty Miller and Senior Associate Athletics Director Sherie Cornish Gordon, NSU has big plans for the money generated in each tournament.

“Our major concern is to provide fifth year funding to help the student-athletes who no longer have eligibility graduate.” said Miller.

The NCAA gives a certain amount of money to the conference and each conference has a formula for money dispersal.

“When it comes to wins

Continued on p. 7

Money earned through success in MEAC tournaments is used for a number of expenses in the Athletic Department, including team rings. |Photo by Keith Offutt/The Spartan Echo

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

Spartan Student Life

6

NORFOLK STATE TO OPEN NEW STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER By: Brittany Elmore

Norfolk State University students will be introduced to the Student Success Center, the newest addition to the campus’ many facilities geared towards adding to the success of the university’s students.

The Student Success Center is part of a six year plan set forth by the university to increase retention and graduation rates. The Student Success Center will be operating out of

the ACCESS office in the Bowser building until the new permanent location is constructed.

The brand new building will be constructed adjacent to the new library on part of the land where the old Lyman Beecher Brooks Library was located.

Construction of the new building is expected to be completed by summer 2014. The temporary location is expected to open mid-semester.

The new center will offer more benefits to students. According to Dr. Sandra DeLoatch, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, the center will be fully equipped with computers, educational software programs and professional academic advising in addition to existing peer mentoring.

Title III funding and a state grant will cover the majority

of the costs for the program.

Those funds will also aid in paying student mentors.

Dr. DeLoatch says she hopes students will take full advantage of the new program. She also hopes the goal of increasing enrollment, retention and matriculation rates at Norfolk State is achieved.

9.19.12

Interested in writing for the Spartan Echo?

The staff meets every Tuesday and Thursday in Room 344 of the Student Center from 12:30-1:15 p.m.

students wearing headphones cause major headaches to on-campus drivers By: Brittany Elmore

Headphones and ear buds have been causing headaches on campus for years.

Not only are they disruptive to the classroom setting, but they have become a distraction in other areas as well.

blaring music is a courtesy issue, distracting headphones are also a safety concern. Rap artist and producer Dr. Dre’s line of headphones “Beats by Dre” have become very popular among college students.

Crossing busy streets and walking into classrooms are just a few places where headphones are unnecessary.

Many students have their music so high that it disturbs fellow pedestrians who are forced to hear the music blaring through the speakers.

The headphones get extremely loud without bothering

Headphones were invented so people could enjoy their music without disturbing others, but advancements in audio and fashion have made it much easier for those who choose to sport headphones to disrupt those that surround them.

Aside from the fact that

“If they take their time crossing the street, I just blow my horn...”

-Draykar Granderson

those around the person wearing them. However, this makes it difficult to hear important sounds like car horns and the Norfolk Tide’s warning bells.

NSU student John Hamilton III shows how students can easily be distracted while having on headphones. Photo by Tony Batchler, Jr. | The Spartan Echo

Some students realize the danger their headphones pose and take precautions while enjoying their music.

“I tend to look around a bit more and I am more aware of my surroundings when I wear mine,” said senior computer

science major Michael Davis.

When students cross through traffic on campus with their music blasting they cannot hear approaching vehicles.

This causes a headache for the driver and a potential disaster for the pedestrian.

Junior sociology major Draykar Granderson said, “If they take their time crossing the street, I just blow my horn. If they don’t hear it, there’s really nothing else I can do. They need to just look both ways first.”

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

9.19.12

Spartan Sports

running and receiving:

A LOOK AT NSU’S TOP BALL CARRIERS BY: MARIAN BROOKS Continued from p. 5 He finished the season third on the team in receptions and appeared in all 12 games, getting the starting nod in five. Garret showed his versatility in the spring helping out at the quarterback spot.

“My focus is to represent my senior year well, play as hard as I can and see where it takes me, whether it is coaching or to the next level,” said Garret.

This time around he will make sure that he listens to his body and takes the necessary precautions, properly preparing for each practice and game.

“I had surgery in December to repair my broken ankle from last season,” said Garret. “My ankles are taped every practice and I ice when I feel even a little bit of soreness or a hint of pain.”

The top on the depth chart for running backs is red-shirt senior Takeem Hedgeman. He was ranked 7th in the MEAC in rushing with 698 yards.

Hedgeman was 4th on the team with 21 caught passes.

“My role is to be a leader through my play on the field,

“My focus is to represent my senior year well, play as hard as I can and see where it takes me, whether it is coaching or to the next level...”

-Reggie Garrett be positive and help motivate others because it is fun to win,” said Hedgeman.

Running through different defenses will put Hedgeman in the crossfire of de-

fensive players of all sizes and being able to withstand tackles and stay healthy will be especially important.

“Stretching and doing the extra stuff is a good way to prevent injury along with going to the training room,” said Hedgeman.

Second on the depth chart is senior running back Randy Maynes. He and Hedgeman will split carries going into this season. He was second best on the team with 94 carries for 443 yards.

“My role is to make big plays, especially whenever things get tight or when we are in a bundle because the coaches expect big things,” said Maynes.

He also worked on speed and strength in the off season.

All four seniors agree that winning the MEAC title has unified the team.

“We are tight brothers, but on both sides of the ball now,” said Garret. “More things are surrounded by the offense and defense doing things together.”

They are aware that the fans have high expectations.

“We were the first team to start the MEAC championship run and we want to make sure we aren’t the first team to let everybody down this season,” said Hedgeman.

They know what it takes to win a championship now. Their offense is balanced explosiveness with big plays, special emphasis on the run and gun, and the spread which will open up the defense. Consistency, health and chemistry will be the main factors in the Spartans’ ability to stay poised under pressure and rise above the rest for the second year in a row.

7

six meac

titles means

BIG BUCKS

for norfolk state

By: Marian Brooks

Continued from p. 5 in the NCAA tournament, there are rounds and each team is given units, which are equivalent to a monetary value, which increases as the teams advance in the rounds, and advancement determines units,” said Cornish Gordon.

The athletics department has a $12.1 million budget this year.

“Thirty-two percent of that is for scholarships,” said Cornish Gordon. Salary is another large percentage of revenue, but scholarships are the main priority.

“If the cost of attendance goes up, we have to adjust the amount of scholarships. The additional funds help to provide and maintain scholarships,” said Cornish Gordon. “We have to cover the cost of travel, uniforms, shoes and recruiting.”

“We have been given the opportunity to expand our efforts with the additional revenue to recruit,” said Miller. Long-term success is important to any athletic program, especially one looking to expand recruiting.

The athletic department is also responsible for purchasing rings for all six teams that won the conference championships. This is not an automatic amenity funded by the MEAC conference.

The revenue also helps with renovations. The two video boards at Dick Price Stadium were planned long before the champion-

ships were won, but revenue helped speed up the process.

“We were also able to resurface the tennis court, refurnish Echols and get it painted before the season starts,” said Miller.

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“If the cost of attendance goes up, we have to adjust the amount of scholarships. The additional funds help to provide and maintain scholarships...”

-Sherie Cornish Gordon

There are also plans to renovate the weight room, enlarge the football locker rooms and enhance the women’s locker room in Gill Gymnasium.

NSU also assists in helping with operational functions.

“When it comes to deciding what facilities to renovate, we think about the safety first. We have to maintain safe planning conditions for practices and competitions,” said Cornish Gordon.

The revenue benefits all of the teams and the conference.

“If we would have beat Florida, we would have re-

ceived more money but all of the money doesn’t go to NSU,” said Cornish Gordon. “It differs from conference to conference how the money is shared, but the MEAC formula is confidential and cannot be shared.”

Cornish Gordon said that wins create more notoriety and “men’s basketball was the icing on the cake.” NSU athletics is moving in the right direction and transforming the department as a whole into a collegiate powerhouse.

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

Spartan Entertainment

8

SPARTAN WATCH By: Donte Hayden, Deputy Entertainment Editor

Nicki Minaj will replace Steven Tyler as a judge on the show’s twelfth season. | Photo by Charles Sykes/Invision/AP)

Nicki on Idol: Nicki Minaj has accepted the role as one of the new American Idol judges.

She will take the place of rock and roll star and Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler. Mariah Carey, who was also asked to

be an Idol judge, is not happy with the decision to replace Tyler with Minaj. Carey reportedly became very upset when she was told that Nicki Minaj was going to be her co-judge and she posted a picture of herself with fellow singer and friend, Lenny Kravitz, on Twitter.

The tweet read, “@AmericanIdol What’s going on?

Need the info!! What about this combo? :) if we could ever get him to do it!”

The idea of Lenny Kravitz as a judge was well received

by Carey’s twitter fans who retweeted her tweet and replied their approval. Although Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj

did a duet together in 2010, “Up Out My Face,” it is apparent that Carey feels there are some more deserving artists to consider for the position.

Lozada and Johnson Split: Basketball Wives star, Evelyn Lozada, filed for divorce from Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson on Aug. 14 after 41 days of marriage. Johnson was charged with head-butting his future ex-wife in a domestic dispute.

Johnson was recently dropped from the Miami Dolphins for “not living up to expectations.” However, analysts say the Dolphins wanted to avoid the bad press from the domestic violence situation

with Lozada.

Johnson released an apology statementLozada and his fans.

“I would like to apologize to everyone for the recent events that have occurred. I would like to wish Evelyn well as I truly love her to death. I will continue to be positive and train hard for another opportunity in the NFL,” said Johnson.

Domestic violence has become a huge issue in Hollywood. Many celebrities have been made examples of in the judicial system. With only the minimal actions taken against Johnson, fans and analysts believe that a much harsher punishment is to come.

ECHO REVIEW By: Donte Hayden, Deputy Entertainment editor

ARE KANYE WEST’S

G.O.O.D. MUSIC LYRICS THE SOUNDS OF HELL? By: Briaun Rooks

Hip-hop songs have always been known for controversial lyrics and messages and recent tracks released under Kanye West’s G.O.O.D. Music label have pushed the envelope. West’s music has always been scrutinized for edgy lyrics and religious references, but “Mercy” and “New God Flow” have added “demonic” to the list of words to describe his flow.

The intro’s lyrics in “Mercy” have raised eyebrows because of the direct correlation to the descriptions of hell.

“Well, it is a weeping and a moaning and a gnashing of teeth.

It is a weeping and a mourning and a gnashing of teeth, ‘cause when it comes to my sound, which is the champion sound, believe me,” are the lyrics to the intro sung by the late reggae/ dancehall artist, Fuzzy Jones.

According to Matthew 13:42 in the Holy Bible, the “weeping and moaning and gnashing

of teeth” are the sounds of hell.

Listeners took to Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to warn others not to listen to the demonic music while West’s fans argued that the lyrics simply explain that West’s position at the top of the rap game makes his music the sound of champions.

The first line of “New God Flow” featuring Pusha-T sparked controversy as well.

“I believe there’s a god above me, I’m just the god of everything else,” said Pusha-T. Debates over his demonic lyrics have once again sparked conversation about Kanye West’s alleged Illuminati affiliation, but they have failed to slow him down. The “Cruel Summer” album features several tracks with even more questionable lyrics that could either be meaningless or everything that wary listeners claim them to be.

Demonic or not, the diehard fans cannot seem to get enough.

9.19.12

trending topics: #iLoveNSU @A_Tasby: So many good things have already taken place and we’re only 3 weeks into school I cant wait to see what the rest of the year holds #iLoveNSU @Coastal_swagg:

“T.R.U. Story” debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 while “Ludaversal” was expected to be Luda’s lowest debut ever.

Photo Credit: www.2chainz.com|www.facebook.com/Ludacris

Artist: 2 Chainz Album: “T.R.U. Story” Release Date: August 14

2 Chainz’s “Based on a T.R.U. Story” debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 charts, selling 147,000 copies in its first week. His hit single, “No Lie” featuring Drake, was one of the most popular songs on the album and his second number one hit on the Billboard charts.

Though he has seen success in sales, some critics say that he has failed to shine as an artist.

“Chainz is a bubbly, energetic person to have featuring on your track; however, if you want him to carry an entire track by himself, he simply can't do it, and he proved it with this album,” said Faizan Qurashi of Gather. com’s entertainment spotlight.

“Based on a T.R.U. Story” received dismal scores on many music rating sites including HipHopDX which gave the album two and a half out of five stars.

Artist: Ludacris Album: “Ludaversal” Release Date: September 11

Ludacris released “Ludaversal” on his birthday, Sept.

11, 2012. Success predictions for his 8th studio album’s sales were very low. Without a hit song on the radio or on charts, Ludacris was looking to have his lowest debut of his career.

The album’s lead single, “Jingalin,” peaked at only 63 on Billboard’s Hip-Hop chart. Ludacris has had a strong career and very strong record sales.

However, his last two albums did not do very well. Although Ludacris is hailed as one of this generation’s greatest lyricists, his latest albums’ and songs’ promotion has not been strong.

Music critics believe that Ludacris’ lack of promotion is the main reason for his poor record sales on his last two albums.

Obama gave a great speech today!! He made history. #iLoveNSU @NSUTRAIN: This is the year of the SPARTAN! #iLoveNSU!

@ImPerfectlyDe: Man I love my school...#iLoveNSU @School_BoyJ: No reason why I shouldn’t close my last semester at NSU with 4 As #iLoveNSU

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