61.9 Spartan Echo

03.07.14

Vol. 61, I ssue 9

Top

Stories Inside

Enrollment numbers may affect faculty employment

By Danielle Kirsh

T

The Spartan Echo, won 10 “Excellence in Journalism” awards in Houston.

(Staff photo).

See Spartan Echo wins top honors , Highest awardwinning year in our 62year history Page 3

The Spartans celebrate another winning season and another MEAC divisional crown.

Photo from: NSUSpartans. com.

See NSU bowling wins 4th straight MEAC southern divisional championships Page 5

he enrollment of students at Norfolk State University has a huge impact on the university’s budget.

The current goal for enrollment for the fall 2014 semester is 6,700 students, but it is expected the university will fall short of that goal by at least 500 students.

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Sandra DeLoatch said NSU is “pushing hard to make these numbers.”

According to Interim President and CEO Eddie N. Moore Jr., in a universitywide meeting with the faculty, if the university doesn’t get enrollment up, it risks closing buildings, reducing faculty, eliminating academic programs, raising tuition, or a combination of these measures. Moore said the university is trying to “mitigate the drop in enrollment.”

Deans have already informed some colleges and schools about the elimination of some academic programs that have a low number of majors. In addition, some non-tenured, full-time contract faculty received notice that their contracts may not be renewed.

There are approximately 25 full-time NSU faculty members for every 500 students at NSU. NSU was placed on warning from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the uni-

versity’s accrediting agency, in September 2013 and given a limited amount of time to address the problems. Some of the warnings the university received are related to financial resources.

Moore also announced that there is a plan to decrease a projected $9 million deficit to $2 million and hopes the remaining deficit can be mitigated by aggressive recruit-

“...if the university doesn’t get enrollment up, it risks closing buildings, reducing faculty, eliminating academic programs, raising tuition...” ment and retention measures.

The university has until September 2014, when SACSCOC revisits, to submit proof that it has addressed and rectified the problems, or the university risks losing accreditation.

“We haven’t had a successful audit since 2010,” said Moore. “We’ve come a long way, but we have to demonstrate it.”

This undated image provided by the Food and Drug Administration shows the federal agency's new ad campaign featuring yellow teeth to show the costs associated with cigarette smoking. The federal agency said Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2014, it is launching a $115 million multimedia education campaign called “The Real Cost” that’s aimed at stopping teenagers from smoking and encouraging them to quit. (AP Photo/Food and Drug Administration)

FDA targets teens in anti-smoking ads

By Destiny Williams

The Food and Drug Administration has launched new anti-smoking ads targeting teens between the ages of 12 and 17.

Their goal is to reduce the amount of teen smokers by 300,000 over the next three years.

These ads are the first of many solutions to stop underage smoking. The ads stem from the 2009 Tobacco Control Act.

These ads pinpoint the many health hazards of smoking and will be implemented through television, radio, print and online ads. The anti-smoking ads show some disturbing images of gum disease, tooth decay and skin damage in a way that will appeal to the youth.

See Anti-smoking ads, page 3

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

Spartan News

2

College invites

NSU’s chapter of wins BIG

shooter back to class

By Danielle Kirsh

The Epsilon Pi chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. recently won five of the eight awards presented at the Virginia Association of Chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity conference. The awards included College Brother of the Year, College Brother with the Highest GPA, Step Show, Scholars' Bowl and Chapter to Travel the Longest Distance. Members (l-r) are D’Shaun Vance, Richard Tran, Laron Smith, Ben Osoba and Shane Dawson.

Photo credit: The Office of News and Media Relations.

By Worship Chaleka Norfolk State’s very own Epsilon Pi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity won five out of a possible seven awards presented at the Virginia Association of Chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Conference (VACAPAC) on February 7. VACAPAC is a competition between all the active chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

In the history of this conference, it has been a rarity for a chapter form an HBCU to collectively win that amount of awards in a year, yet the Epsilon Pi chapter has managed to win in this fashion over the past four years.

Norfolk State’s Epsilon Pi Chapter won the Step Show Competition, Scholastic Bowl, the Brother with the Highest GPA (Benjamin Asoba), the College Brother of the Year (Richard Tran), and – to top it all off—they also won Chapter of the Year.

In the step show, six Epsilon Pi Brothers participated, competing against VCU, VUU and Virginia Tech. Af-

03.07.14

terward came the three-round Scholastic Bowl competition where NSU defeated VCU in round one, University of Richmond in round two and James Madison University in the final round.

Later on, the award for College Brother of the Year went to Richard Tran for his stellar academic standing and his extra-curricular contributions to Norfolk State and the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The award for Brother with the Highest GPA was given to Benjamin Asoba with a GPA of 3.892 majoring in engineering as part of the DNIMAS Program.

And, to cap off all the awards presented, the Chapter of the Year award was given to the Epsilon Pi Chapter for their dominance in competition at VACAPAC. Other than just the realm of Alpha Phi Alpha, College Brother of the Year winner Richard Tran believes that these wins help bring recognition to not only the Epsilon Pi Chapter, but to NSU as a whole.

“It’s raising the standards, because with us beating other chapters from big name schools in the scholastic bowl, it shows we have a lot of intellectual people at this university and it’s giving them a representation of who we are,” Tran said. “We all come from different walks of life and, when we get together and compete, we win.

It’s in our DNA as Spartans that we work hard to get what we want.”

The Epsilon Pi Chapter will now advance to regionals for this same completion, competing against other chapters from schools like Yale, Cornell and University of Pennsylvania. If the Epsilon Pi Chapter wins the regionals, as they did in the state-wide competition, they move on to the nationals.

“It resonates with our new members,” Tran said. “…who may have the best chance to win these same awards for us next year and keep it consistent.”

Eastern Florida State College has invited a student suspected of shooting another student back to class less than a week after the incident took place.

Police told Florida Today that Amado Contreras, 25, and Landyer Contreras, 24, attacked Eastern Florida student Landrick Hamilton, 24, with a pool cue near the college’s main building on Thursday, Jan. 30. In a rage, Hamilton went to his car to retrieve a gun and fired one shot, hitting Amado Contreras.

All three men are claiming their attacks were in self-defense. The injuries Amando Contreras received were not life threatening, and Hamilton was allowed to return to classes the following Monday.

Norfolk State University freshman Rognee Gardin thinks stories like this are shocking.

Gardin said, “I wouldn’t be too comfortable” if that happened at Norfolk State.

He also said he would be concerned for not only himself, but everyone else on campus as well.

It is against Florida law to have guns on school campuses, and that law includes college and university campuses.

With school shootings around the country happening more frequently, it’s hard to say if legislators will strengthen the existing firearm regulations.

All 50 states have different laws regarding carrying concealed weapons; however, there are 21 states that ban

carrying a concealed weapon on a college campus. A few of them are locations of past school shootings. Such as, the 2014 murder at South Carolina State University where a fellow student shot another student outside of their dormitory and the 1966 University of Texas tower shooting where Charles Whitman shot 43 people, killing 13.

In the 29 other states, the decision to ban or allow weapons on campus is left to the discretion of the college or university. This is the law that Virginia currently upholds.

Virginia Tech is the location of the deadliest campus shooting in history. Senior Seung-Hui Cho shot and killed 32 students and wounded another 17 before killing himself in April 2007.

According to their Weapons Policy, Norfolk State “prohibits the unauthorized possession, carrying, maintaining, storage, control, brandishing or use of firearms and weapons or any reasonable facsimiles thereof.”

The policy applies to students, faculty, staff, transient personnel, invitees or other third parties that are on university property of university-sponsored activities.

Norfolk State senior Shayla Jennings says she is aware of the current gun policy at Norfolk State. Jennings also thinks it is a good policy that will help prevent any shootings from happening.

Since 2010, there have been two arrests related to illegal weapons possession on campus.

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

Spartan News

03.07.14

3

Dieting: Long term

health or short term results

By Chasity Cox

For almost a decade, health has been one of the most important topics in our society.

Young men and women have been trying to emulate what they see on television and hear on the radio. Reality stars as well as actors and actresses are often the blueprint that is displayed as perfect to the average person.

Senior Denzel Murph said, “Students implement what they see on TV. Some get liposuction, butt implants and anything else concerning the body that can be fixed to look more attractive.”

Unfortunately, what young people forget is that the resources celebrities have to obtain their fitness goals are not the same resources that the average person can afforded.

With this in mind, college stu-

dents go to other extreme measures to get the results instantly including fad dieting.

There are many fad diets that are just a Google search away.

Some of these diets include The Lemonade Diet, The Cabbage Soup Diet and the popular South Beach Diet. These diets can span from one day through a two week period. Unfortunately, dieting results are short term if not done the correct way. Going back to regular eating habits can cause the weight to come back almost immediately.

Although you may hear great reviews, you must remember that dieting can carry a health risk. The damage that can be done to the body as a result of fad diets can be permanent. According to SF Gate, an online site that discusses effects of

fad diets and bad eating habits, dieting can cause poor brain function, poor exercise capabilities, insulin resistance and weight gain as well as a host of other negative results.

The long term effects of proper dieting and exercise can not only expand life, but make a difference in your everyday world.

Junior Desiree Lewis said, “I know a friend that decided to try the South Beach Diet, but instead of treating it as a fad, she made it a lifestyle change.”

Instead of just wanting quick results, realize the importance of pacing yourself and dieting the correct way to improve your lifestyle. Always remember, it’s important to check with you doctor before beginning any diet or exercise regimen.

Anti-smoking ads ■Continued from front page Some Norfolk State University students don’t think the ads will be very helpful.

Junior Marcus Jones said that if these ads were implemented when he was a teenager, it still wouldn’t have stopped him from smoking. However, he said the FDA is taking the right steps in preventing teen smoking by using ads that appeal to them.

“If it will help teens to stop smoking, by any

means, go ahead,” said Jones.

FDA Commissioner Dr. Margaret Hamburg said nine out of 10 regular smokers had their first cigarette by the time they were 18.

There will be additional campaign targets in place over the next two years that will be geared towards specific groups such as multicultural, rural and LGBT youth.

“You’ll never get past the problems if smoking is

your remedy,” said NSU senior Michael Minix.

Tobacco use contributes to more than 480,000 deaths per year in the United States.

More than 3,200 youth under the age of 18 will try their first cigarette each day.

For more information about the campaign including some of the ads, visit TheRealCost.gov.

(Pictured left to right) Devanique Riley, online/managing editor; Brittany Elmore, editor-in-chief; Trenton Fouche’, entertainment editor; and Jason Gill, sports editor of the current Spartan Echo staff proudly display the Spartan Echo’s ten awards for journalism performed during the 2013 calendar year. (Spartan Echo staff photo)

Spartan Echo wins top honors

Highest award-winning year in our

62- year

(HOUSTON) — The Spartan Echo, won 10 “Excellence in Journalism” awards for 2013 at the Black College Communication Association’s annual National HBCU Student News Media Conference in Houston this month. This is the highest award-winning year in the Spartan Echo’s 62-year history with three first place, three second place, two third place wins and two honorable mentions.

The annual contest of student media from historically black colleges and universities is judged by national news media consultants and editors from nationally-recognized newspapers throughout the country.

The Spartan Echo received

history

first place awards for news, sports and online journalism; second place awards for sports reporting, editorial writing and graphic design; third place awards for news coverage and overall journalistic effort; and honorable mentions for commentary and online video.

Highlighting the Echo’s first place wins was SpartanEcho. org’s award for “Best Online Site.” The Spartan Echo was the sole winner in this category and the award constitutes the fourth time the Echo website has received first place honSee Spartan echo wins, page 6

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

Spartan Sports

4

03.07.14

ESPN’s Smith

inspires college

students with influential message

By Jason Gill

The Spartans take the track as they prepare for their next meet. Photo by Tykhari Coles.

Women’s track turns focus toward outdoor season

By Jason Gill

(Pictured left to right) Devanique Riley, online/managing editor; Brittany Elmore, editor-in-chief; Trenton Fouche’, entertainment editor; and Jason Gill, sports editor of the current Spartan Echo staff proudly display the Spartan Echo’s ten awards for journalism performed during the 2013 calendar year. (Spartan Echo staff photo)

As the16th annual Black College Communication Association’s National HBCU Student News Media Conference in Houston came to an end on Saturday Feb. 8, ESPN columnist, television and radio personality Stephen A. Smith left a room full of aspiring young journalists enthused with his powerful words.

A graduate of Winston Salem State University, Smith always envisioned himself being in the position to give

back to HBCU students once he established himself as one of the best.

“It means everything to me.

To whom much is given, much is required, and I’ve always been someone who prides myself in being a voice for my community,” said Smith. “I literally dreamed about this; I envisioned this stuff. I saw myself in the position that I am in. I was always that guy See ESPN’s Smith inspires page 5

The women’s track and field team wrapped up their indoor season with a fourth place finish at the MEAC championships on Feb. 15 in Landover, M.D. Sophomore Adugna Desalegn highlighted day one competition for the Lady Spartans with a second-place finish in the 5,000 meters.

Although NSU placed fourth after day one with 27 points, they still felt they had a solid chance of taking home the championship. Unable to move up from that position, they finished with 64 points as Hampton University won the MEAC title.

“After that first day, we felt like we still had a good opportunity. We always feel like we have an opportunity and we were up there,” said Head Coach Ronda Berard. “It’s definitely motivation for us.

Last year, we finished seventh, so we’ve moved up. We know we’re not that far off.”

Junior Tiara Davis won the pole vault competition on day two with a clearance of 10 feet, 5.5 inches. Davis was the only Spartan to win first place in their respective competition.

It was also Davis’ first MEAC title of her career.

“Tiara is an awesome young lady. She’s one of the captains of our team, and she’s a leader,” said Berard. “Tiara had a mindset going in; she sat there and told me I’m going to win it.”

Davis was able to get the proverbial monkey off of her back after three straight runner-up finishes in the pole vault.

“There are a lot of good vaulters in the MEAC, so I’m happy that I performed well and was able to score for my team. My coach always tells me I will be impressed with my outcome

and I was,” said Davis. “The outdoor season will be a much greater challenge, but I know that if I continue to work hard and prepare in practice I can improve.”

Going forward, the Lady Spartans are training hard in preparation for the outdoor season. Coach Berard hopes the ladies’ focus will match their physical intensity when the outdoor season kicks off.

“Overall, as a team, we are young. A lot of times when you’re young, you strive out there on the track, but mentally you’re not prepared,” said Berard. “We just want to make sure they are mentally ready, have no fear and just go out and compete.”

The Lady Spartans begin their outdoor season on March 15 at Coastal Carolina.

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

Spartan Sports

03.07.14

Lady Spartans aim

for consistency down the stretch

By Jason Gill The women’s basketball team has certainly taken a step forward this season considering that at the midway point, they had already compiled more wins than all of last season.

Head Coach Debra Clark feels there is a multitude of reasons for this year’s turnaround.

“I think a lot of it is personnel. We are very young this year, but I think we have better quality players,” said Clark.

“Our veteran players have played much better as well.

The fact that Rae Corbo, who is our leading scorer, is back after suffering a season ending injury last season helps tremendously.”

Clark knows going into the stretch run she will need more stability from many individuals in order to make a deep run in the MEAC tournament.

“I’ve gotten a lot of bright spots out of different people throughout the year. I just wish they would put all those spots together for consistency. Once

we play well together as a team, the wins will come much easier,” said Clark.

The one constant on the team all season long has been twotime MEAC Defensive Player of the Week senior Rachel Gordon, who also averages a double-double (12ppg, 12.4rpg).

Being the lone senior on the team, Gordon has been dealt a lot of responsibility on and off the court but has been more than up for the challenge.

“It is a little pressure, but my coach had prepped me before this year. I knew I would be the key factor in winning or losing,” said Gordon. “Being the only senior, I expected that I would have to step up to the leadership plate.”

With the regular season coming to an end, the Lady Spartans will turn their focus to the MEAC tournament where they hope to win and earn a bid into the NCAA tournament for just the second time in school history, and the first time since 2002.

“And One” Rachel Gordon showing why she deserves to be on the court. Photo by Donte Hayden.

5

NSU bowling wins 4th straight MEAC

Southern Division Championship

By Brittany Elmore

Five times out of the past six years, NSU has held the MEAC Southern Division Championship.

The first weekend in March was the most recent MEAC Southern Divisional Championship. Over two days of play, the Spartans ended 6-2, beating out North Carolina A&T, Florida A&M, North Carolina Central University, and Bethune-Cookman University for the divisional crown.

Courtney Williford said, “We came through when we needed, and we stayed together as a family.”

Team captain Thea Aspiras aver aged a solid 196.8 in the first day of play. Juniors Emily Weber (190.0), Ashley

Buck (189.0), Courtney Brown (184.5) and Kelsea Yarbrough (180.0) contributed to the Spartans victories.

Buck said, “It was definitely an interesting weekend, but it was something we worked for. Winning the southern divisional four times in a row was something we wanted and it was a goal for this season.”

The Spartans went into the divisional championship leading the Aggies of NCA&T by two games. The Spartans and Aggies both finished the championship tournament 6-2, but since the Spartans led the division entering the tournament their season record won them the crown.

“It felt great to accomplish

the goal we worked so hard for,” said Buck.

“I am very proud of each member of the team. Each of them contributed in capturing our fourth consecutive MEAC Southern Divisional Championship. A month of focused preparation and hard work culminated into achieving a goal we set at the beginning over every season. A new generation of Spartan Bowlers continues the tradition of winning.

Behold the green and gold!” said Coach Aundray Darden.

The Spartans look to the USBC Intercollegiate Team Sectionals March 15-16 and the USBC Championship in mid-April.

ESPN’s Smith inspires ■Continued from page 4 so there’s nothing about what I have achieved that’s surprised me. I’m blessed, I’m honored, but at the same time I expected this.”

Smith stressed the importance of one’s character and work ethic when coming into the mass media industry. According to Smith, there have been countless people who have come into this business with talent but the wrong mentality.

“First of all, you have to understand that you have to put in the work. It’s not going to come easy to you, and there are no shortcuts regardless of what they tell you,” said Smith.

“You also have to have a plan.

You can’t just go into this halfheartedly and expect people to assist you. Most times you’re competing and what you want is a potential employer to understand that you’re someone worth investing in.”

Smith continued, “A lot of it is not about ability it’s about attitude. When you’re young and coming into this business, an employer would much rather hire somebody who’s hard working, dedicated and willing to sacrifice himself or herself than someone who’s talented, but thinks they’re ‘it,’ or that they’ve arrived. That person will usually not get the opportunity.”

As Smith tells through his

twenty-plus years of experience in the world of sports journalism, adversity is an aspect of the profession that comes with the territory.

“I think one of the problems with adversity is that people think it’s prejudice to them.

Everybody goes through it; it’s life. I think the biggest problem is a lot of young people don’t appreciate the journey.

My biggest challenge, personally, has been not being perceived as controversial. I don’t fault folks for having that belief because when there is such a minimal number of us [blacks] in the position of influence, it’s foreign to them,” said Smith.

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

Spartan Lifestyle

6

Freshman Tip: How much

is a class worth to you?

By Ciara Simmons

Skipping class is an easy choice to make. Tasks such as getting up in the morning and braving the harsh winter winds can make it feel like going to that 8 a.m. just isn’t worth it. It’s easy to think I can just get my assignments and notes later, but can you get your money back?

At Norfolk State, one credit hour for an in-state, undergraduate student is $265.

An average semester consists of 15 credit hours which amounts $3, 613. If that class is three days a week, skipping one class can cost you $80.

In most instructors’ syllabi, students are informed of the university’s policy on attendance that gives professors permission to fail a student who misses more that 20 percent of class meetings.

Let’s say that happens. You now have to retake that three credit hour class and waste another $795.

For students who reside on campus, meal-plan and housing are other financial concerns.

According to the Norfolk State University Tuition and Fee Schedule, for this academic year, the average in-state undergraduate student will spend $7,800 over one semester. This price includes the standard 15 credits course load, the least expensive housing option on campus and the basic meal plan with 14 meals and $125 dining dollars.

For some, the cost just doesn’t matter. In their head, they get financial aid that

covers all of their expenses; plus, they get a refund check.

Sounds nice, but there are some consequences some don’t consider.

There is a cap on financial aid provided from the federal government. The Federal Student Aid website (StudentAid.ed.gov) says the loan limit for a dependent student is $31,000. That limit is for your entire undergraduate career. Also, a refund isn’t free money; it’s a loan that you will pay back.

Also, if your GPA falls below a 1.6 for two consecutive semesters, you can have your financial aid taken away until your GPA is brought up which will cause you to pay for some classes out of pocket.

Dr. Eleanor Hoy, director of retention and mentoring in the Spartan Success Center said their goal is to help you remain in school, and they can assist you in finding resources. “Our goals to solve any problem students may face...by any means necessary,” says Hoy. But everyone knows mistakes are made. Living on you own for the first time can be an overwhelming and freeing experience. Along with your advisers, programs on campus are available to help you keep your eye on the bigger prize—your diploma.

The Spartan Success Center “offers services designed specifically to enhance your academic experience and ensure success at Norfolk State University,” and is located in Bowser RM 121.

03.07.14

Spartan Echo wins ■Continued from page 3 ors. Editor-in-chief Brittany Elmore accepted the award on behalf of the entire 2013 Echo staff, as well as the JRN 221 News Writing and MCM 491 Web Design students that made significant contributions to SpartanEcho.org as an integral part of their coursework at NSU. “SpartanEcho.org offers its audience a great mix of staffproduced news, sports and feature stories as well as photos and videos that capture life on the Norfolk State campus,” the judges said. “The site has a clean and professional design.

It’s obvious that a lot of smart, hard work goes into producing and maintaining such a rich, polished site.”

The Echo won “First Place: Best News Series, Investigation or In-depth Story” for Melissa Rawls and Krysta Ricks’ series on enrollment concerns at NSU. Judges called the series “well done” and a “stand out” among the other entries.

In addition, the Echo also won “First Place: Best Sports News or Game Story” for Rawls’ story on the ineligibility of the men’s track and field team, which judges called an “outstanding” effort that made a complicated topic an effortless, fact-filled read.

Rawls’ journalism was also noted by judges in the Echo’s “Second Place: Best Overall Sports Coverage” award for sports journalism throughout the 2013 calendar year, an effort led by sports editors Marian Jones-Brooks and Dan AduGyamfi. In their comments, the judges said…

“You can tell that a commitment to excellent journalism wasn’t a fluke—but the way the paper operates.”

Ricks was also mentioned by judges in the Echo’s “Second Place: Best Signed Commentary or Column Writing” award for her work as an editorial writer. Ricks has served the Echo as online/managing editor and editor-in-chief during her three-and-a-half years with the newspaper.

“Miss Ricks takes on a variety of issues but is at her best when she trains attention to issues specific to campus,” the judges said. They summarized her editorials as “well researched and thoughtfully presented.”

The Echo also won “Second Place: Best Individual Page Design” for Devanique Riley’s work on the 2013 homecoming issue, which judges characterized as “attention-grabbing” through her “good use of color, with crisp art/graphics.” Judges also “liked the integration… of social media into the print edition.”

The Echo’s third place wins were highlighted by their “Best Student Newspaper” award recognizing the paid and volunteer staff’s efforts during 2013. Ricks served as editorin-chief during the spring semester and Elmore served as editor-in-chief during the fall semester.

“The Spartan Echo does a solid job of presenting the news of the day and utilizing space…(with) good use of photos and graphics to help illustrate stories,” the judges said. “Similar to the first and second place winner, the Echo also presents clean packages that are well designed with a mix of thoughtful articles.”

“Third Place: Best News Coverage” went to the Echo’s current news editor Danielle

Kirsh for her coverage of the presidential changes at NSU. Judges said she made a “good attempt to be comprehensive” and her “explanation of the role of the board of visitors was an especially helpful element.”

The Echo also received “Honorable Mention: Best Online Video” for E.J. Rogers’ reporter package looking at video gaming as a form of stress release. Judges said Rogers “did a good job of integrating video game playing with an interview and a stand up” and praised the strength of his writing.

An honorable mention also went to Rawls for “Best Signed Commentary or Column Writing” as a result of her editorial work and contributions to the Echo’s “Freshman Tips” column.

The Excellence in Journalism Awards contest is sponsored by the Black College Communication Association and the contest is coordinated

by Reginald Stuart, journalist and corporate recruiter for The McClatchy Company.

“We appreciate the media professionals who volunteer their time to evaluate the entries and to offer their constructive criticism,” said Dr. Valerie White, the Chairperson of the Black College Communication Association. “Their comments go a long way in teaching and assisting students.”

Judges were selected from the Detroit Free Press, the News and Observer, the Star Tribune and other newspapers of national recognition and the judging criteria is based on national journalism industry standards of practice.

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

03.07.14

Spartan Lifestyle

Indie music from an unlikely source ​By Jamal Chatman While not heavily promoted, it’s no secret NSU is full of independent student artists. However, no one expects a professor to moonlight as the front man of his own band.

Dr. Daniel Pearlman, professor of English and creative writing, is the lead vocalist and guitarist of The Dunes—an indie band established in Virginia Beach in 2003.

The term “indie”—short for

independent—is specifically linked to rock bands not even your self-proclaimed music enthusiast co-worker has heard of.

The Dunes’ name derives from the entire Virginia Beach area. When the band originally got together, metal music was still popular; however, The Dunes wished to create their own sound and style.

“Our music has an alternative and progressive sound to

it,” said Pearlman. “I really like being independent, even if that means not getting paid.”

While most bands take the easy way and “sell out,” Pearlman believes great music transcends taking shortcuts. Pearlman says The Dunes’ lyrics are “outspoken” and careless toward outside opinion.

“The glory of staying independent is that you get to keep your sound through your deci-

sion and design,” said Pearlman. “Many students and people in society are brainwashed to think the goal is money.”

While money is a motive, he recognizes it’s not his right to dictate other artists’ goals. Ultimately, staying true to yourself as an individual and not limiting yourself to one genre are Pearlman’s words of advice for NSU student artists.

Spartan Echo accepting applications for fall 2014 The Spartan Echo is accepting applications now for all editor positions (listed below). Editors will serve during the fall 2014 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 757-823-2444 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. https://www.nsu.edu/Assets/websites/studentactivities/Student-Publication-Forms/Spartan-Echo-Publication-Application.doc Applications will be accepted via e-mail at seopfer@nsu.edu, or in-person at MAD 282, through April 4.

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

7

editors Brittany Elmore Editor-inChief

DeVanique Riley Online/ Managing Editor

Danielle Kirsh News Editor

Ciara Simmons Lifestyle Editor

Jason Gill Sports Editor

Robert Hayden Multimedia Editor

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

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

Graphic Design/Layout Editor: - Adobe In-Design and Photoshop experience - newspaper layout/graphic design experience Multimedia Editor: - photography/videography experience - experience writing captions with accuracy and clarity

Trenton Fouche’ Entertainment Editor

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

We meet every Tuesday and Thursday in room 344 at 12:30 pm. ALL majors welcome.

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

Spartan Entertainment

8

03.07.14

Orange is the new Black announces second season

By Trenton Fouche’

Iconic movie Godzilla will make an appearance on screen again. Photo from www.facebook.com/GodzillaMovie>.

Godzilla reboot coming soon

Orange is the New Black announces to start second season. Photo from www.facebook.com/OITNB>.

By Antonio Garland One of the most iconic movie monsters of all time is set to make a comeback. Godzilla will rampage once again in theaters starting May 16 in 2D and 3D. The product of Japanese studio Toho, the first film in the series, Gojira, debuted in Japan in 1954; two years later, the film would be released in America and was retitled Godzilla King of the Monsters.

The new film will be backed

by Legendary Pictures and will star Elizabeth Olsen, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Ken Watanabe, who appeared in an earlier film in the series. This version will have Godzilla re-

turning to his roots, being treated as a natural disaster and his trademark abilities that were absent in the first American release are returning. The film will be an attempt to bring back fans of the series along with introducing the monster to newcomers.

The upcoming reboot is not the first American-produced Godzilla film. In 1998, Tristar Pictures acquired the rights from Toho to produce a remake of the original film. The film starred Matthew Broderick, Jean Reno, Maria Pitillo and Kevin Dunn and focused on a more realistic looking creature, making him more like a wild

animal in an unnatural environment, tearing through New York instead of Japan. Though the film had moderate success at the box office, it wasn’t well received by fans and critics of the original.

Bryan Cranston, one of the film’s stars, expressed his excitement on the project in an interview on the movies official website, “As a kid, Godzilla was you know, my creature of choice," said the actor, "I love the absolute destructive nature of this beast.”

The film will be co-produced by both Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures.

Netflix made the announcement in an ad during the series finale of its hit show House of Cards that their other popular series Orange is the New Black will be returning on June 6.

The series, which debuted last year, is Netflix’s most successful original show to date and became critically acclaimed due to strong performances from its cast. The show’s star, Taylor Schilling, was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for best actress in a television drama.

“I was so excited. I read the first episode and I was totally, totally blown away. Across all mediums and platforms, it was the most dynamic female character that I've ever read, bar

none,” the actor told HuffPost TV. “I was like, ‘How can I get in on this?!’ The humor, the honesty ... to actually be able to portray a real woman is a pleasure, creatively. And culturally it's important to depict a real woman. Even if this wasn't on Netflix, I would have followed the role anywhere.”

The show, based on the memoir Orange Is the New Black: My Year in a Women's Prison written by Piper Kerman, has remained popular despite the series taking a bit of a hiatus after its first season. Although fans are anxious about the show’s return, many took to social media to express displeasure in having to wait until the summer for the series to return. “I don’t think I can wait until June 6th for Orange is The New Black to start”, tweeted one fan. “I just got beyond excited.. ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK SEASON 2 LETS GOOO!” tweeted another.

The show has started production and most of the characters from season one are expected to return for the second season. After season one’s cliffhanger, expect the show to take more twists and turns in its plot.

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