61.6 Spartan Echo

12.02.13

Vol. 61, I ssue 6

Top

Stories Inside

Passengers traveling on the Amtrak Train to their hometown may find some good deals on tickets and other traveling expenses during the holiday season.

Photo from Facebook.com/AmtrakVirginia/photos_stream.

See page 6.

Many people living in Norfolk and Portsmouth use the Midtown Tunnel to commute for work and school. Proposed tolls could greatly increase their daily travel costs and Governorelect McAuliffe called them “exorbitantly high.” Photo by Jules Dean.

Tunnel commuter to pay $1.84 starting Feb. 1 Could cost more than $18 per week

By Kallie Gould

Veteran actor, producer, film director and NSU alum Tim Reid founded the Legacy Media Institute to expose emerging filmmakers to the film industry. Photo from Facebook.com/ timreidsplace.com.

See page 8.

Students commuting to and from Portsmouth will soon have an additional traffic headache to deal with during the upcoming spring semester.

The Virginia Supreme Court recently voted to uphold the proposed tolls on the Downtown and Midtown tunnels.

The courts ruled that the tolls were “user fees” and not taxes, therefore making them legal to impose.

Newly elected Governor

Terry McAuliffe spoke on the tunnel toll issue in his first press conference after being elected.

“I thought the tolls are exorbitantly high and we need to sit down and talk. I like winwin situations, and we will re-look at that as it relates to the tolls and as it relates to the folks especially in Portsmouth. The tolls are exorbitantly high.”

Norfolk State commuter

students remain apprehensive about the tolls.

“As a commuter, I am not too excited about the tolls because now I have to pay going to and from school on top of paying for gas and maintaining my car. I feel like it will make traffic worse than it already is,” said senior mass communication major Diane Brame.

The new toll is currently set to be $1.84 and start on Feb. 1 of next year.

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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It’s not too late to get involved with the Echo!

Next semester, we will meet every Tues and Thur in Rm. 344 at 12:30 pm. ALL majors welcome.

12.02.13

Virginia Sen. Creigh Deeds attacked in home

By Brittany Elmore

This chart demonstrates average post-graduates working in Virginia in positions reported to the Virginia Employment Commission using the Full-time Wage Equivalent definition. Photo retrieved from research.schev.edu/eom/opportunity_4yrbachelors_report. asp.

Average post-graduation wages only slightly more than non-graduates

By Danielle Kirsh

A bachelor’s degree is designed to demonstrate that the person who is receiving it has a general education with a focus on a subject in which they have majored in. Even though graduates have an area of focus that peaks their interest, the median wages of someone with a four-year bachelor’s degree is only a little more than those who don’t obtain a degree.

Research shows that from 1993 to 1998, the median wages of someone who ob-

tained a four-year bachelor’s degree was $41,884. In comparison, those who didn’t earn any credentials were earning an average of $30,629.

In the years 1997 to 2002, the median wages of a graduate with a bachelor’s degree was $44,421, whereas a non-graduate was earning $31,511, which is only $12,910 less than what someone with a general education was earning.

The research reflects the earnings of individuals who

began at a college or university in Virginia.

From 2009 to 2010, wage outcomes of graduates within 18 months of graduating weren’t much different than those in 2002.

On average, a bachelor’s degree graduate earned $33,122.

The median range of wages in the 75th percentile of graduates was $44,597 from 20092010. In the 25th percentile, it was $23,401.

Authorities say they are “leaning towards it being an attempted murder/suicide,” Virginia State Police spokeswoman Corrine Geller said at a news conference Tuesday, Nov. 19 after Sen. Creigh Deeds was flown to the University of Virginia Hospital after being stabbed in his own home in Bath County, Va. His son Gus Deeds, 24, was pronounced dead at the scene from a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound after lifesaving attempts were made, according to authorities.

The police did say they recovered a gun on the scene, but did not provide further details about that weapon or the weapon used on Sen. Deeds at the time of publication. Sen. Deeds is in good condition; after being stabbed multiple times around the head and chest, according to Geller.

There is an on-going investigation into the details of the incident including a motive; however, authorities said they are not looking for a suspect.

It appeared that Sen. Deeds and his son had a good relationship. Del. David Toscano said

“Sen. Deeds was very close to his son, Gus, and has taken herculean efforts to help him over the years. Our thoughts and prayers are with Creigh and the family at this difficult time.”

“He needs me and I need him,” Sen. Deeds told a reporter in fall 2009 after Gus took off a semester from his music studies at the College of William and Mary to campaign with his father.

Despite his academic standing, Gus withdrew last month from William and Mary; the school did not give a reason for his withdraw.

Gov. Bob McDonnell commented on the occurrence calling it “utterly heartbreaking…

Creigh Deeds is an exceptional and committed public servant who has always done was he believes is best for Virginia and who gives his all to public service.”

Governor-elect Terry McAuliffe said, “We join people across the Commonwealth and country in wishing him [Sen. Deeds] a full recovery.”

Gus Deeds was one of four of the senator’s children.

In a Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009 file photo Democratic gubernatorial candidate and Virginia State Sen. Creigh Deeds makes a speech to supporters after losing the Virginia gov-

ernor's race to Republican Bob McDonnell, in Richmond, Va. At far left is Deed's son, Gus Deeds. Virginia State Police confirmed Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2013 that Creigh Deeds was stabbed multiple times and his son Gus, 24, was shot and killed at Deeds' Home in Bath County, Va., during a Tuesday morning assault. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)

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

12.02.13

Spartan News

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Education major unfazed by school violence across the country

By Danielle Kirsh

Virginia Gov.-elect Terry McAuliffe, left, listens as outgoing Gov. Bob McDonnell addresses the media after their private lunch at the Executive Mansion in Richmond, Va., Thursday, Nov. 7, 2013. (AP Photo/Richmond Times-Dispatch, Bob Brown)

Governor appoints new board members

By Danielle Kirsh After a semester of downfalls with Norfolk State University’s governing board, Gov. Bob McDonnell has appointed three new members to fill the vacancies.

The new appointments come a month after Gov. McDonnell requested that some of the board members resign and the resignation of former ViceRector W. Wayne Perry, Jr. after he was indicted for fraud on Nov. 6.

The new members appointed to fill the vacancies on the board are Ret. Lt. Gen. Michael Rochelle, former community college president Deborah Di-

Croce and Vice President of Development for Gold Key/ PHR Hotels and Resorts Bryan Cuffee.

The appointees join the Board of Visitors after Eddie N. Moore, Jr. was appointed as interim president and CEO of NSU on Sept. 13.

Former board member Henry D. Light resigned on Sept. 27.

Julien Patterson also resigned on Oct. 30.

“Each appointee brings unique strengths and experiences to the board that will be vital to carrying out an innovative, strategic path for the University’s future. Norfolk State

University has a history of academic excellence, outstanding alumni and strong community support. I have no doubt the University can overcome its current challenges and become a leader again in placing graduates in competitive, in-demand careers,” McDonnell said in a statement released on Nov. 7.

McDonnell also appointed two advisors who will serve on an “as-needed” basis. The appointees are former Secretary of Education in Virginia Jim Dyke and NSU alumnus and professor at the University of Virginia Ervin Jordan.

The Oct. 21 Sparks Middle School shooting in Sparks, Nevada comes almost a year after the tragic Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, leaving aspiring educators at Norfolk State to question their safety in schools.

There have been 138 fatal school shootings in America since 1980, with the Virginia Tech massacre being the most deadly school shooting in American history.

Some schools across the nation, from elementary to high schools, have implemented procedures in the event of an intruder or an attack from within the school. Educators are also learning self-defense and how to prevent fatalities.

NSU freshman education major Timothy Mallory thinks school systems should implement new tactics in order to keep the school safe.

“More discipline should be enforced, more security and

better structure in classrooms” are things Mallory thinks should be different.

Mallory also said that teachers have to show superiority over students to help keep schools safe.

On Nov. 4, a Maury High School, a tenth grader threw a loaded gun into a bathroom trashcan after being told by a probation officer that he had to be searched before he could re-enter the school. The student has been charged with possession of a firearm on school property, possession of a firearm by a minor and carrying a concealed weapon.

Mallory said that the shootings that have occurred in the schools is “bothersome.”

Despite all of the incidents around the country in the last twenty years, Mallory said that his decision to become a teacher will not change.

“If anything, it will make me more observant,” Mallory said.

In this Oct. 23, 2013 file photo, Washoe County School Board President Barbara Clark walks past a makeshift memorial in front of Sparks Middle School in Sparks, Nev., where math teacher Michael Landsberry was killed and two students wounded before a 12-year-old gunman killed himself.

(AP Photo/Scott Sonner, File)

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

Spartan Sports

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Marty Miller: A rock of Spartan nation

By Jason Gill Athletic Director Marty Miller has been putting a positive imprint on the university for over 40 years in areas other than athletics.

Miller, who was a star baseball player, became the first Spartan to be named an NCAA College Division All-American following his senior year.

After he graduated in 1969, he was commissioned a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

While on active duty, Miller was signed by the Minnesota Twins and had a short stint in professional baseball before ultimately returning to his alma mater in 1972.

Upon his return, he was named the assistant coach of the baseball team. The following year, he was named the head coach and would hold that position for 33 years while being tasked to take on various responsibilities.

Miller has served as director of financial aid, worked as an assistant in career services, served as associate VP for student affairs and even taught math for a semester.

12.02.13

Spartans to rotate for results

By Jason Gill

As their non-conference schedule is underway, the men’s basketball team is confident in the direction it’s heading as well as their style of play.

While keeping details of the game plan close to his chest, Interim Head Coach Robert Jones recognizes what his team

Marty L. Miller is the well-established Athletic Director of the NSU Spartans athletic department. Photo retrieved from nsuspartans.com.

These positions have always brought a challenge of some sort Miller’s way; however, one in particular has always stood out the most.

“The biggest challenge I have encountered which we are still encountering to this day is the lack of resources.

We have never had enough resources to provide students with the services we deem necessary. When you don’t have the proper resources, it’s tough, and it’s been that way ever since I’ve been here, but that’s never an excuse to not excel,” said Miller.

In 2005, Miller was named the athletic director after being asked by President Marie V. McDemmond to fill the position. Miller felt coaching while serving as athletic director would be too much and this is where he was needed most.

Miller has received many accolades from being named CIAA Coach of the Year 15 times, receiving five straight Louisville Slugger awards given to championship coaches, being inducted into the CIAA’s

John B. McLendon Hall of Fame, the NSU Athletics Foundation Sports Hall of Fame and the Hampton Roads African American Sports Hall of Fame among others. However, the most meaningful did not come in the form of an award.

“The most meaningful accolade I’ve received was when the institution named the baseball field after me. It was unexpected. I never had any thought about that happening, but when I was told that is what they wanted to do, it was an unbelievable feeling,” said Miller.

Miller also touched on what he believes is his greatest accomplishment here at NSU: “Being a role model for so many students here at NSU. I’ve had so many [students] come back, or call or write just thanking me. That’s the greatest satisfaction that I have right now. It’s the impact that I have made on so many lives.I want it to be said that I gave NSU everything I had. I left everything on the field for this institution,” said Miller.

backcourt along with redshirt junior Jamel Fuentes, redshirt senior Anell Alexis and redshirt senior Malcolm Hawkins.

Junior transfer LaTre’e Russell, senior Brandon Goode, sophomore RaShid Gaston and transfer redshirt sophomore Hefeng Sun will help solidify things in the frontcourt.

Seniors Jormust work on in dan Weathorder to win the ers and Riley MEAC for the Maye have second straight played above year as predictexpectation ed. levels thus far “The guys and will round have been workout theplanned ing really hard. rotation.

They’ve been “I think our adapting to the seniors have new changes been doing a well. Our seniors really good job. have also done Those guys a good job with haven’t played leadership. Our much in their main focus now careers, but I is to work on our think they’ve -Interim execution in the firmly planted Head Coach half court set as their selves in Robert Jones well as our tranthe rotation sition defense,” this year,” said said Jones.

Jones.

With the exCompared to pectation of playing an up-tempo brand of last year’s team, Coach Jones basketball, Jones envisions plans to run a balanced attack using a 10-man rotation with on both ends of the floor. Oftheir traditional three guard, fensively, Jones has impletwo forward sets the majority mented an assortment of sets of the time. that he hopes will create easy Senior guard Pendarvis baskets, and on defense, the “Penny” Williams, the MEAC Spartans will run a mixture of Preseason Player of the Year, is man-to-man as well as a variexpected to lead the way in the ety of zone schemes.

“Our main focus now is to work on our execution in the half court set as well as our transition defense...”

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

Spartan Lifestyle

12.02.13

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On the final day of the film festival, the showcase of the feature film Troop 491: The Adventures of the Muddy Lions produced a great turn out.

Tim Reid’s Legacy Media Institute International Film Festival

(From left to right) Tori Reid; Tim Reid; NSU’s chair of the Mass Communications/Journalism department Dr. Wanda Brockington, PhD; and Rae Dawn Chong (below).

Photo essay by Tykhari Coles If you weren’t in Norfolk on the weekend of November 8-10, you missed out on something special! On that weekend, Norfolk State University alumni and major film maker & producer Tim Reid hosted his very first Legacy Media Institute International Film Festival in the City of Norfolk and on the campus of NSU. Students and faculty, community members and special guests alike, were honored with the opportunity

to engage in international media starting at the minimum price of $5 for students. Tim Reid’s very first international film festival showcased various films, ranging from feature films to short films, including documentaries and animated films. Each film was showcased all over the Hampton Roads region. The festival was held at NSU, the Naro Expanded Cinema, the Crispus Attucks Theater and Nauticus.

“To be a filmmaker… ...one must understand the power of the medium in which we are embracing.” - Tim Reid

Father and daughter Tim Reid & Tori Reid at the NSU Wilder Center. The fatherdaughter duo organized the events of the film festival (right).

Camille Selvon Abrahams, award winning multi-media producer and animator, shared her experiences filmmaking in her home country Trinidad (above).

Rae Dawn Chong and NSU professor Dr. Paula Briggs exchanging laughs before attending the gala (below).

Notable actress, producer and director Rae Dawn Chong voiced her opinions on the “YouTube generation” of filmmakers.

The subject matter of the Director’s Panel centered on the passion & quality (or lack thereof) of the new generation of filmmakers (above).

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

Spartan Lifestyle

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Holiday travel on a student budget

By Melissa Rawls

The Bolt Bus is another quick & cheap alternative for Spartans to travel on a student budget. Photo retrieved from Facebook. com/BoltBus.

With winter break right around the corner, college students across the country find themselves emptying out their piggy banks in an attempt to gather enough funds to head home for the holidays.

Here at Norfolk State a large portion of the student population is from the surrounding area, more formally known as the seven cities: Chesapeake, Hampton, Virginia Beach, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Newport News and Norfolk.

For students that live in other parts of the country, shopping around for the best travel deals is a task that can prove to be very costly if not done properly. Contrary to popular belief shopping around for cheap, efficient means of travel is rather simplistic once you know where to look.

Ideally, students would love to have the option to buy their plane tickets for back home months in advance; however, for the average student, this is simply not possible. Instead of paying excessively high airline prices come early November here are a few travel alternatives that even the most destitute of “broke” students could utilize.

Take the bus. As time consuming as it can sometimes be, traveling by bus is one of the cheapest modes of transportation from one part of the country to another. In today’s highly competitive market, there

are a number of bus lines that offer discounted rates of travel.

A few of the more popular bus lines include, but are not limited to: Greyhound, Megabus, Bolt bus and Peter Pan bus.

Hop on a train. With over 500 destinations to choose from traveling by train can be deemed as the medium that balances in between flying and busing. In many instances, taking the train proves to be relatively cheaper than booking a flight while maintaining the same luxury of space and accelerated transport.

Rent a car. Despite their tough age restriction policies, renting a car is a great means of travel. For those students that are of age, you will find that many rental agencies offer promotional deals closer to the holidays. Once upon a time, most rental agencies required that drivers be at least 25 years of age or older, now there are a number of companies that will rent to drivers 21 and up for an additional surcharge. A few of the affiliating companies are; Enterprise, Hertz, Budget, Dollar and Avis. (Here’s a tip: If you register for an account with USAA.com and book your rental car through their website, the affiliating rental agency you book with will waive their underage fee) No matter what form of transportation you choose, do your homework beforehand to find the best deals.

12.02.13

Students prepare for cuffing season

By Melissa Rawls As the fall season begins to fade, many NSU students find themselves seeking companionship that exceeds friendship but doesn’t require the same commitment ofa traditional relationship.

This ever popular phenomenon is formally referred to as “cuffing season,” a courting period that begins promptly during the late fall months.

Regarded by many as an unofficial period of dating, it has been known torival the ever popular “friends with benefits” arrangement.

Seemingly enough, once the cold weather moves in a number of students find themselves resorting to the unofficial, yet commonly applied, cuffing season schedule.

“You see scouting takes place in mid-October, that’s when you attempt to find someone that you are interested in being with. By the time homecoming rolls around, you and that

person should be on the same page; you guys should be officially seeing each other.”said Karolyn Cousins, a first year mass communication graduate student.

One of the more interesting aspects surrounding this practice of courtships is that each respective partner isn’t bound by many of the formal rules of a relationship. Although monogamy is highly encouraged, this of type situational dating does run a greater risk of infidelity as a result of its temporary status.

“That’s the great thing about cuffing season-- it’s just so casual. I think that’s what makes it so convenient, the fact that it gives you the option of having a boo that you can spend time with without all the strings.” said Cousins.

Those who frequent this provisional form of companionship strictly enforce the cuffing season parameters.

After the winter has come and gone, spring serves as the official break up period for many of these temporary undertakings. By March, spring break to be more exact, both parties are free to enjoy the pursuit of other interests.

There are those few occasions where feelings develop, trust is built and a genuine relationship is formed. Although rare, the possibility of true love has even been known to surface as a result of this momentary pairing of eligible suitors.

“Even though the break-up is pretty much expected, if a cuffing season boo acts right, there is potential for them to become an official boo come spring. Although it’s technically against the rules, there are those instances where it’s okay to make exceptions,” said Cousins.

A new Spartan couple spending time with each other after class. It's typical for new couples to come together during Cuffing Season. Photo by Tykhari Coles.

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

12.02.13 Tough Love An advice column from a fellow Spartan

By DeVanique Riley With graduation right around the corner, the classes of 2013 and 2014 are getting ready to enter a world of unemployment, underemployment and student loan debt, which has been and will be a growing concern. Given these facts, I have some advice to offer my fellow college students.

Seek free funding. When the majority of students apply for financial aid, the main thing we look for is ‘free funding.’

Fastweb.com isn’t as popular when searching for scholarships; however, students should look into what is offered. Registration is free with thousands of scholarships of all types, including scholarships for people who are left handed to those with autism.

Be aware of the different types of loans. Federal loans are cheaper and typically have better repayment terms than private student loans. Some students aren’t aware of the different types of loans. They see money in their account and accept all of them without thinking of the consequences.

Students should look at what the financial aid office offers to help better understand their financial aid awards.

Find a job that helps repays the debt. You’ve gone through the process before, now it’s time to use what you’ve learned. Finding a job that helps to repay loans may be difficult but be sure you do the research. Programs like Teach for America will pay up to $5,000 off the federal Stafford loan debt of educators, if they teach for five years in a low-income school. Other programs like this are offered for other majors as well.

Seek debt consolidation.

Debt consolidation may be a good choice for you when you’re unable to manage student loan debts. A debt consolidation program is a general debt plan to substitute your many bills with one easy and affordable monthly payment.

For us graduating seniors, some of this information may be too little too late, but I urge the underclassmen to learn from our experiences.

Spartan Opinion I’m done being a student An editorial by Krysta Ricks Over 17 years of my life have been spent in school, and guess where I am now.

I’ll wait…

From the time I was in junior high school, I was told that you can’t do anything or go anywhere without a degree, and I believed it.

I finished high school and stressed my way through four years of undergrad at Norfolk State University. Then, I had the brilliant idea to go back for my master’s.

I am currently studying about 817 theories in one class and 2 million terms in another. All of which I’m sure will be 100 percent necessary for whatever job I land in the near future.

I can see it now. My interviewer will ask, “What makes you a qualified candidate for this position?” I will say, “I can tell you all about normative and hermeneutic theories.”

I’ll get a blank stare and then I’ll hear, “Thanks for coming.

We’ll keep your resume on file.”

Hah. As an out-of-state student, it is even more frustrating to pay for courses that I don’t think I need. Not only do they encompass tons of information that I’ll most likely never see again, but they cost thousands of dollars!

I assumed a master’s would make me more marketable in the job market, but I realize now that I’m missing out on quality time that could be used gaining experience in the industry.

Recently, I have come to determine that maybe there’s such thing as too much college.

Maybe I don’t need a master’s.

Perhaps I’ve learned what I need to know to do the job I’m destined to do.

Don’t get me wrong; I adore learning. Absorbing new information is a favorite pastime of mine. I just think I’m past the lecture style of learning. I need to be out there doing what I have learned.

I need to make mistakes and be corrected in a manner that will be forever etched in my mind; not on paper where the important part is not what the right answer is, but the fact that I got something wrong.

I have come to terms with the idea that I have endured my fair share of formal education, for now. I have taken the time to evaluate my current desires and now feel that it is time for me to pursue other options.

I’m done being graded. I’m done poring over notes that are of no interest to me. I’m done being a student.

Freshman tip: Make the most of semester breaks

By Melissa Rawls After a semester full of homework assignments, pop quizzes, hardcore study sessions and final examination periods, students are eager to get home and recover from months of mental anguish.

For most students, making it through the first semester of college proves to be a monumental accomplishment in itself, so while on break, school tends to be the last thing on their minds.

However, in preparation for the spring semester, first year students should aim to make the most of their break by allowing it to serve as a period of reflection.

When the time comes to head home for the winter break, here are a few suggestions to help students get the most out of their break from school: Rest. Considering how draining and demanding classes can

be during the first semester for first year students, it is crucial that a considerable amount of the break be spent resting.

Whether it be getting up early for 8a.m. classes or staying up late for study sessions, students later come to realize the value of sleep. As a result, try spending an adequate amount of the break sleeping and allowing your body to catch up on all the rest that you missed out on during the semester.

Evaluate. For first year students, the semester breaks prove to be a perfect period for evaluation. Ideally, students should focus on determining what worked and what didn’t work well for them when classes were in session. Taking the time to review study techniques, eating habits and social calendars all prove to be essential when determining the success and

failures of the previous semester in an effort to ensure that the next semester is even more rewarding.

Plan. Although preregistration takes place prior to the end of the semester, students still have ample time over break to review their class schedule and plan what classes they would like to take the following semester. By doing so, students are able to ensure that their schedule is in line with their program curriculum and that they are on track for graduation. Additionally, semester breaks are the perfect time to plan for potential internship and volunteer opportunities.

Repeat. By keeping these handy tips in mind, students are sure to be ready to take on whatever challenges are likely to arise in the subsequent semester.

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editors Brittany Elmore Editor-inChief

Krysta Ricks Online/ Managing Editor

Danielle Kirsh News Editor

Melissa Rawls Lifestyle Editor

Dan Adu-Gyamfi Sports Editor

DeVanique Riley Graphic Design/ Layout Editor Jules Dean Multimedia Editor

Kyna Uwaeme Entertainment Editor

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

Spartan Entertainment

8 Roots remake

Sevyn debuts

By Trenton Fouche’

“Call Me Crazy But…”

12.02.13

By Kyna Uwaeme

The 1970s epic TV drama “Roots” expected to make a television come back.

Photo from: facebook.com/ rootstvminiseries.

One of the most critically acclaimed, groundbreaking films of all time may be making a return. The History Channel has announced plans to redevise the film in an eight-hour remake.

The original series, which debuted in 1977, garnered 37 Emmy nominations and won both a Golden Globe and Peabody award. Based on the novel by Alex Haley, the series opened the eyes of millions of Americans to the harsh realities of slavery, with 100-million tuning in for the finale. It is still the third highest rated program.

The remake, which is still in preproduction, is expected to be an eight-hour version of the original 12-hour miniseries.

Mark Wolper, son of David L. Wolper, the late executive producer of Roots, will serve as the executive producer. The network reached out to him and the estate of author Alex Haley about remaking the nearly 40 year-old series.

Although little is known about the series, we can expect it to open the eyes of a new generation who may have never seen the first the original.

Former member of RichGirl, Florida-bred singer and songwriter, Sevyn Streeter is ready to release her debut EP, “Call Me Crazy But…” After spending much time behind the scenes writing hits for artist such as Brandy, Chris Brown, Kelly Rowland, Alicia Keys, Ariana Grande and many more, Sevyn finally decided to pursue her dream of being a performer.

The EP will feature seven tracks including her single “It Won’t Stop” featuring friend and mentor, Chris Brown.

“It is just talking about the cycle of a relationship. A lot of

times, you get into it with your significant other and you feel like, Oh my god, you are acting crazy. I’ve heard that before— I’m sure a lot of us have! Really why I named my album that is because a lot of times that person has valid reasons.

So call me crazy but, didn’t you just lie about this?” Sevyn said in an interview with Ok Magazine.

Sevyn is currently on tour with K. Michele for the BET Music Matter Presents: Rebellious Soul Tour. “Call Me Crazy But…” will be available on I-tunes Dec. 3.

Sevyn Streeter debuts solo EP “Call Me Crazy But…” available on I-tunes Dec. 3. Photo from: facebook.com/sevynstreeter.

Mr. Reid talks film festival and need for students to get serious

By Kyna Uwaeme With the advancements of technology and the budding popularity of video-sharing websites like YouTube, it is easy for anyone to proclaim themselves a filmmaker. The span of this technology phenomenon undermines the actual skill set needed to advance in the competitive industry of filmmaking. Students wanting to make it in the industry have to be better than their competitors, especially because everyone now is doing it, or they risk finding themselves unemployed after graduating.

Veteran actor, producer and film director Tim Reid founded the Legacy Media Institute to expose emerging filmmakers around the world to the realities of the business.

“The American filmmakers are hypnotized by what

they think the business is, this sort of hip-hop mentality about filmmaking….

Because they have a cell phone, I-phone or camera, they think they are producers. So they don’t learn the skills they need to make decent films… they don’t seem to be as concerned with culture and storytelling as the African diaspora and other places,” said Reid.

Reid’s Legacy Media Institute held its first annual film festival in Norfolk, VA in November. The festival showcased an array of culturally diverse films like “Toussaint L’ Ouverture,” a film made in France about the Haitian revolution and the man that led it, along with many other films including local talents.

“I’m trying to get people to understand the power of storytelling…and hopefully

give insight to some of the mass communications students here to realize that they need to step their game up,” said Reid.

Mr. Reid also criticized mass communications students graduating from NSU, leaving many to wonder whether or not students leaving NSU are prepared for the real world.

“A lot of them graduate and come to my studio looking for a job. I say ‘Where’s you reel?’ They say ‘I don’t have one.’ Well how do I know you know how to hold a camera let alone tell a story?… There is no reason why anyone in this department that wants to be serious about getting a job in front of or behind the camera should not be out shooting….This is where you learn. You’re not going to learn out there,” said Reid.

LMI Fellow and National Broadcasting Society President Donte Hayden agrees that not enough students within the department are active enough to fully be prepared after graduation.

“The few that are doing what they are supposed to do need to go out and pull other students who aren’t and teach them,” said Hayden.

With the school year quickly coming to an end, this comes as a reminder to not only seniors but freshmen, that if they want to get a job after graduating, they must not only have a reel, an e- portfolio and resume prepared for prospective employers, but a skill set to show they are ready to compete within an already competitive media industry.

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