62.1 Spartan Echo

08.29.14

Vol. 62, I ssue 1

Top

Stories Inside

Are you tired of traffic?

Tunnel traffic and toll woes for commuter students ...Page 3

Gay marriage still off the table for now

By Danielle Kirsh

The same-sex marriage ban that has kept many people from being legally married in Virginia has been put on hold once again.

During the week of Aug. 11, the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond rejected a motion that wanted to delay the implementation of their previous ruling that would remove Virginia’s same-sex marriage ban.

The Supreme Court had until 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20 to intervene and the appeals court ruling was to go into effect on Thursday, Aug. 21 at 8 a.m.

Attorney General Mark Herring requested that the Supreme Court stay enforce-

ment on the ban so they could have more time to make a decision.

In Jan. Herring said that he would not support any ban on same-sex marriage because it goes against what the 14th Amendment of the United States Constitution says.

Gov. Terry McAuliffe released a statement following the Supreme Court’s decision saying, “I applaud Attorney General Mark Herring for his continued efforts to see this case concluded as quickly as possible, and I hope the Supreme Court takes immediate action to uphold the 4th Circuit’s decision so that Virginia can finally take this next important step in our history.”

The U.S. Supreme Court placed a stay on the case of legalizing gay marriage. Photo from https://www.facebook.com/media/set/? set=a.123892961037680.27999.123892551037721&type=3

Only 19 states currently have legal same-sex marriages, ten of which allowed it by a court decision or state legislature following the fall of the Defense of Marriage Act in 2013.

“Today’s decision is a temporary delay to the inevitable conclusion that Virginians who love each other should have the opportunity to marry regardless of their sexual orientation,” said McAuliffe.

NSU professor robbed

By Richelle Hammiel

Spartan prepare for season opener on Augusr 30. ..Page 7

Wear your green and gold on Friday, Augusr 29.

While the campus police have been concerned about the students being robbed, faculty and staff are targets as well.

Dr. Carol J. Pretlow was robbed on July 24, 2014. Photo from http://www.nsu.edu

Dr. Carol Pretlow, who works in the political science department, was the most recent victim of this local crime, which took place on July 24, 2014.

On that sunny afternoon at the light rail station on Brambleton Avenue, two African-American males who she thought were previous acquaintances of her’s approached Dr. Pretlow.

Unexpectedly, one of the males made remarks to Dr. Pretlow that she thought were jokes, but turned out to have vicious intent.

“What you going to do for me?” one of the men asked Dr. Pretlow.

Shortly after, she was asked to give up the belongings from her purse, but when she didn’t comply quick enough, the suspects became aggressive.

“You’re getting things out too slowly, so I might have to smoke you anyway,” the suspect said.

Luckily, Dr. Pretlow was not harmed in the situation, but her purse was stolen. Shortly after the robbery, both of the suspects were caught and taken into custody. Since they were both under the age of 18, the police were unable to release their names to the public.

One main objective of every community is to make it a safe place to accommodate its visi-

tors and residents; and it’s the same for the NSU campus.

Even though it’s nearly impossible to completely rid the campus and communities of all crime, the best effort would be to extend all efforts to prevent it.

“Walk with other people. If you’re alone, stand near the alert system, spread the word, vote and make sure legislators know the problem,” said Dr. Pretlow.

These were a few words of advice from Pretlow in hopes of informing people on better ways to stay safe and possibly prevent the incident she faced from happening to anyone else.

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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08.29.14

Our phenomenal woman: The death of Maya Angelou

By Richelle Hammiel

For the world, May 28, 2014 may have seemed like a tragic day in history, but to aspiring writers and innovators, it was beyond that.

Tears may have been shed and hearts may have been broken, but this day highlighted both the life and death of a legendary woman.

Maya Angelou graced us with her poetry, films, novels and many other works that were once sought to be unattainable for African Americans, let alone African American women.

For years, women have been viewed as the minority whose whole lives are defined by obstacles and stereotypes. One significant stereotype was enlightened by the “Cult of Domesticity,” which states that women should stay at home and take care of the family while men should be out working in business and politics.

In today’s culture, the “Cult of Domesticity” is almost non-existent.

Women have stepped into the business world sideby-side with men and have become prominent leaders that the next generation will be able to look to for inspiration.

Angelou, a woman of many talents, truly exhibited that there are no boundaries limiting how much one can achieve.

Along with her notable accomplishments, Ange-

lou served as a civil rights activist, which many people of this decade are clueless about. She fought for freedom and rights that she took full advantage of.

To many, Angelou was a voice for those who’ve always needed a little guidance. Through her words, she embodied power and strength that she saw necessary to empower people everywhere.

In her poem, Still I Rise, she stated: You may shoot me with your words, You may cut me with your eyes, You may kill me with your hatefulness, But still, like air, I’ll rise.

This stanza exemplifies exactly how far AfricanAmericans have come.

Angelou’s message here is that despite the opinions of others and the hindrances that may stand in the way, every individual can become who he or she wants to be.

When children say that they want to be lawyers or doctors when they grow up, oftentimes parents and friends laugh it off with the idea that that will never happen because they’ve failed at that opportunity.

However, with the right tools, that child could become whatever he or she wants. Confidence is by far the key to success.

Entertaining negative in-

dividuals would be similar to reliving slavery times. Many Caucasians told slaves that they would never be smart enough to amount to anything. Despite all of the negativity, African Americans have overcome the discrimination and, as people, still tend to rise. Maya Angelou, the woman behind the words, carries herself with a certain courage that says, “I will be forever strong.”

Starring in Tyler Perry’s film, Madea’s Family Reunion, Angelou was able to shine the spotlight on the concerns that many older people have with today’s generation including gambling, fighting and nudity.

Overall, there’s nothing wrong with having fun, but that fun should never cause a person to lose his or her morals and values.

The brightness of the future does rely on the decisions of the young people.

In this movie, as well as her poem, “Phenomenal Woman,” she stressed what young women and men need to realize. A person’s appearance does not make who he or she is; neither does the loudness of his or her voice.

Many people look at television and magazines and want to embody what they see. Women believe that they have to be slim like the models that rip the runway to be noticed and to be considered beautiful.

They also feel like they have to be more revealing in their attire to gain attention. Men feel the same pressure to fit into the molds of what women prefer, such as having fit and muscular bodies.

In reality, every individual is beautiful/handsome in his or her own way. This society is too concerned with the need to fit in to the social trends.

Triumphant people are meant to stand out and for

the right reasons. On the other hand, being outspoken isn’t always a great thing.

Having a powerful voice that is capable of presenting a strong standpoint is ultimately more valuable. Maya Angelou may not have created the term “phenomenal,” but she’s definitely responsible for showing us what phenomenal is. Anyone can be phenomenal- man or woman.

The legendary Dr. Maya Angelou passed away in her home on Wednesday, May 28, 2014. “Her family is extremely grateful that her ascension was not belabored by a loss of acuity or comprehension. She lived a life as a teacher, activist, artist and human being. She was a warrior for equality, tolerance and peace,” said Guy B. Johnson in a statement on behalf of her family. Photo from https://www.facebook.com/MayaAngelou/photos/

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

08.29.14

Spartan News/Lifestyle

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Freshman Survival 101 As a part of the incoming freshman class, students are opening a new chapter in their lives. They have graduated from high school and are now beginning a new career with a clean slate and endless possibilities; however, the key to success is to start the year off with a focused mindset and goals.

"When I came to NSU my first thought was that I could do whatever I wanted because I'm finally free from my parents and all of their rules, but it only took one semester for me to realize that college is not a game," sophomore Adrienne Banks said.

Decisions that students make in their freshman year can have a tremendous impact on their entire college career or even life after graduating. Students should want to develop good habits early on, which means focusing on their classes and grades first and fore-

most.

"Many students do things that they regret in their freshman year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun," junior Silas Langely said.

Freshmen should make sure that they are attending all orientations and begin to network as soon as possible. One of the first major occasions in which the entire class comes together is the Freshman Convocation, which was held on freshman move-in day.

"My freshman convocation was fun, a little boring, but I kept getting excited because I was starting a new part of my life. I was a college student, finally," sophomore Ashley Martin said.

In the first few months of the transition, students will meet some of their professors and other students within their major. Many

By Malaun House

call it being a "teacher's pet," but it is very important to develop a connection with your professors, advisors and colleagues. Those relationships may come in handy later on in the semester or life.

"A professor I had freshman year still writes all of my recommendation letters and we are just as close as family." senior Domonique Johnson said.

There are many opportunities for freshmen to network and socialize within groups like the Spartan Generals, Sister Circle and The League of Extraordinary Men. Each group promotes leadership, participates in community service and provides an opportunity for students to bond with one another on campus.

"Sister Circle has been an outlet for me to network and meet women who have had lasting impressions on shaping my ex-

Reparation vs. revenue

By Richelle Hammiel

This year, there has been an extensive amount of roadwork in the Hampton Roads area that has led to the need for more routes traveling.

The purpose of the roadwork may have originally been to help the people, but it has ultimately presented more of a hassle for those obligated to take the designated routes.

“As for the roadwork, it is not helping traffic. My solution is to build another road,” said Chester Gay III, a resident of Portsmouth and worker for the Tecnico Corporation, located in Chesapeake.

Along with the reconstruction comes the closing of many exits along the interstate, forcing people to abandon their familiar ways of travel and take the scenic route, which definitely

acquires the need for more gas that many people simply cannot afford.

The scenic routes include tunnels and bridges that also have their downfalls, including tolls and inconvenient hours of operation.

Gay expressed the impact tunnel tolls have on him as well as other people who have to pass through.

“The tunnel as far as being tolled is unfair because I have to use it everyday and it’s singling me out as a working guy, student, and those who live on one side and work on the other.

It’s sort of like a ‘hidden tax’ for the working class.”

Because of the Midtown Tunnel and Downtown Tunnel tolls that recently came into affect Feb.1, drivers aren’t afforded

many reasonable options.

Obtaining an E-ZPass is what most people have been advised to do, but there is a major loophole in that plan. With an E-ZPass, people have to put money on it and it’s deducted each time they pass through the tunnel. Whenever that amount of money runs out, they’ll have to add more.

As well as working class citizens, college students who have to commute to and from campus through the tunnel are suffering tremendously.

Andre Powell Jr., a rising sophomore of Old Dominion University, faces this problem when he has to attend class.

“I don’t like the idea of the tolls because last year I had morning and night classes and each time you go through the tunnel, it

periences as an NSU student and a young woman," senior Brittany Tillman said.

Aside from getting to know the campus, freshmen should also keep in mind that there are many deadlines that need to be met. Be aware of class registration drop dates and the financial aid dates, which can be found in the student handbook.

“When I was a freshman I became familiar with my surroundings, my roommates, the

people I shared classes with and my teachers. My freshman year started and ended with a breeze,” alumnus Jerry Tenney said.

There is no specific remedy for having a successful college career; students just have to stay motivated and most importantly, remember why they’re in school in the first place. Many people attend college only to begin the journey, but the task is not getting into college; it is finishing with a degree.

Students moving back on to campus grounds to prepare for a new school year. Photo by Malaun House

charges you. So that meant that you either find something to do on campus until the class started, or go home and risk having to pay again.”

With this being said, if a student was to have both morning and night classes, he or she should may have to pass through the tunnel at least three times a day, giving the tunnel even more of his or her money.

With all of the things college students have to pay for, including tuition, any other payments are considered extra and definitely a hassle.

The South Norfolk Jordan Bridge (SNJB) is another route drivers may take. It creates a route from Chesapeake to Portsmouth and vice versa.

However, this bridge also has tolls. As soon as someone crosses this bridge, the camera flashes, signaling a bill to be sent to his or her home imme-

diately.

As for free options to get around, the Gilmerton Bridge, located on Military Highway in Chesapeake, may be a better fit. This bridge, however, has certain hours in which an individual can pass, which also inconveniences people.

“I have to choose between the Downtown Tunnel and the Gilmerton Bridge, which is 10 minutes out of the way,” Gay said.

As said on cityofchesapeake. net, “Bridge is closed overnight Sunday-Thursday 8 p.m. - 5 a.m. for continued construction through much of 2014.”

With all of these costly options, it’s nearly impossible not to consider whether or not all of this roadwork is really necessary or whether it is a plan devised to rack up more revenue formed by the government.

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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Trail looks forward to a successful final season

By Paige Jefferson

6-foot-7, 265-pound senior outside linebacker Lynden Trail gives a new meaning to the word leadership. The team captain is approaching his senior year with a ton of confidence and a bright future.

Over the summer, Trail was named to the preseason HBCU All-America team.

He was also named to the Preseason Buchanan Award Watch List as well as being named the 2014 MEAC Preseason Defensive Player of the Year.

people by showing them more than just telling them,” said Trail.

He even does his own workouts separate from the team.

Trail finished last year with 94 tackles and five forced fumbles, tying for the lead in the entire nation at the Football Championship Subdivision level (FCS).

His hard work would appear to be the makings of his NFL dream coming true.

Trail’s philosophy of “being around the ball” and “always wanting the ball” is evidence of just that.

When it’s all said and done, he hopes to be able to say that he has given this program the best years of his life as he pursues his football career at the next level.

Quarterback competition heating up as season approaches

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O T B

L Senior linebacker Lynden Trail is a two-time All-MEAC first-team pick for Defensive Player of the Year (2014), a Sheridan Broadcast Network (SBN) Black College All-American (2013) and the only Spartan to make the BOXTOROW preseason HBCU All-America team. Photo from http://nsuspartans.com/roster.aspx?rp_ id=2276&path=football

By Paige Jefferson

O

A The Florida native carries not only the defense, but also the entire team on his back. He also keeps in mind that his actions must match his words.

“I’m actually showing up everyday and I’m here putting in work instead of taking breaks and going home to show my teammates that I work hard and I want everyone else to work hard around me, so I try to push

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The Spartans are eager to return to William “Dick” Price Stadium and beyond for another hard hitting football season. Photo by Mark W. Sutton

The Spartans are back in full effect. After a disappointing 3-9 season, the Spartans are looking to make this season a successful one. The first order of business is to declare a starting quarterback.

Last season, redshirt junior Tyler Clark, redshirt junior Malik Stokes and redshirt junior Omari-Ali Timmons all saw playing time on a regular basis.

Starters were named by game.

Despite Clark going into camp as the number one quarterback, the fight to start remains between him, Timmons and Stokes.

Clark, standing at 6-foot4, played the most snaps last season completing 58.89% of his passes for 937 yards and seven touchdowns.

Timmons played in six games completing 54.17% of his passes for 291 yards and one touchdown.

Stokes, a 6-foot transfer from Bowling Green, completed 37.89% of his pass-

es for 465 yards and two touchdowns. He also ran for a third.

“I would say it’s a dead heat between probably three guys right now for the quarterback position,” said quarterbacks coach Greg Gregory.

With the emphasis being made on solidifying a quarterback, freshmen will be able to learn under the tutelage of the new coach and veteran qb's, making it easier to develop quarterbacks for the future.

However, a freshman could be the game changer and that is Terrance Ervin.

The 6-3, Chesterfield native, is no stranger to leading successful programs.

He led his high school team, L.C. Bird, to two straight state championships.

“He can run it and he can throw it,” said head coach Pete Adrian. “It’s hard to win back-to-back state championships in Virginia, so we’re very pleased about that.”

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

Spartan Sports

08.29.14

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New recruits to take season to new heights It’s August and that means that volleyball season is moving back into full gear.

Though there are 12 returning players, the Spartans lose two seniors, Coralie Jarema and Goda Jankauskaite. Both put up impressive numbers last season. Jarema finished with 1.92 kills per set, 0.55 blocks and .30 aces, while Jankauskaite finished with 3.10 kills per set and 0.47 blocks.

The absence of these two leaves some roles to be filled on the volleyball team. Head coach Brandon Duvall plans to solve this problem with some talented new recruits.

Meghan Peji, a Virginia native and transfer student from Francis Marion will come in and compete as a

defensive specialist.

Peji has experience playing in both the front and back row, which makes her more valuable in the backcourt. She is able to take advantage of angles, reading blocks and anticipating the moves of the hitter.

The two-time Letter Winner averaged 3.47 digs per set her sophomore season at Francis Marion.

Standing at 5’11”, and with a strong right arm, Texas native Hope Forsythe will add depth to the front row as an outside and opposite hitter. In high school, Forsythe played and competed for the Texas Tornadoes, a competitive AAU travel team.

Forsythe led her volleyball team to two District Titles in high school.

By Paige Jefferson

Both will join 6’0”, middle blocker/outside hitter, Clarke Tyler, of Atlee High School in Mechanicsville, Virginia, who signed in November.

Of the 12 returning players, four of them are seniors. There are an additional two returnees that did not play last season.

The Spartans will look to two upperclassmen, both of which come in as statistical leaders approaching the new season, as leaders both offensively and defensively.

Outside hitter junior Jessica Johnson enters this season as one of the top hitters in the MEAC. She placed second last season averaging 2.14 kills per set.

Defensively, senior Libe-

ro Noelle Eagles finished the season with 381 digs and with 3.66 digs per set, where she placed sixth in the MEAC. The new recruiting class looks to add a new spark to an experienced team.

The new recruits for the Lady Spartans Volleyball team are ready for war on the court. Photo by Mark W. Sutton

Norfolk State football welcomes two new coaches

By Paige Jefferson

The Spartans move forward in new directions with the coleadership of new assistant coaches Donald Hill-Eley (Offensive Coordinator/Receivers Coach) on left, and Greg Gregory (Quarterbacks Coach), at right. Photos from http://nsuspartans.com/coaches.aspx?roster=115&path=football

Two former products of Morgan State University have been named assistant coaches for the Spartan football team.

Donald Hill-Eley, the former head coach of the Morgan State Bears, will serve as the offensive coordinator (OC)/wide receivers coach.

Hill-Eley is no stranger to the position as he was the OC at Morgan State before advancing to the head coaching position.

With 13 years of coaching experience, he plans to spark Norfolk State’s football program and take the offense to the next level.

“The prerequisites of our offense are going to be physical, discipline, and explosive,” said Hill-Eley.

He plans to use receivers in a mixture of both the prostyle offense and read option.

“We have to do what our guys can do and with any offense that you have you’ve got to be able to run the football so we plan on being effective running and passing, but being able to do what we would want to have an identity for is running the football,” said Hill-Eley.

Greg Gregory, the new quarterbacks coach, brings over 30 years of experience

to the NSU football program.

Gregory came in with much work to do after last season’s use of three different quarterbacks with no true, definite starter declared.

“No one has elevated themselves to be our starting quarterback. That is what our whole preseason was about; finding a quarterback…that is the number one priority on offense,” said Gregory.

With the season rapidly approaching, the combined years of experience from both coaches are sure to add a new dimension to the Spartan football team.

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

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Spartan Lifestyle

08.29.14

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

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

08.29.14

Spartan Lifestyle

Who are you sleeping with?

By Malaun House

A common concern of students living on campus is whom they will be spending the next few months living with. Will they be organized, messy, loud, courteous or a good listener? Living with a complete stranger can be both a satisfying and stressful experience. Knowing how to deal with any scenario is important when learning to live with a new person.

"Being in college was my first time having to share anything with anyone, let alone a room. I was an only child at home, so adjusting to another person and sharing a place as personal as a bedroom was

a task," junior Kristin Baker said.

Students that live on campus often worry about how they will like their new roommate or how the two will interact.

"I got lucky because I knew my roommate from middle school. We both happened to be in Honors College and when we realized that we were both living in Midrise, we made sure that we became roommates, and we've been roommates ever since," junior Khadijah Fuller said.

There are many instances in which roommates are paired and do not get along; they fight over sharing the bath-

room, refrigerator and what time the lights go off at night.

Many students struggle with learning to adapt to someone so quickly.

"Being flexible, keeping an open stream of communication during issues, keeping an open-mind [and] learning to adapt to different personalities and varying life experiences may be stressful, but it is necessary when establishing a respectful common ground between two [individuals]. Overcoming your first dorm assignment is a maturing step into adulthood," Kristi Sooknanan, a sophomore at Virginia Tech, recommended.

Having a roommate can help build relationships and bonds

among students that will last far beyond graduation. Often a person's first friend on campus is their roommate because there is an immediate comfort in knowing that the two people share something as private as a room.

“One night when there was nothing to do and nowhere to go, we just sat down and talked. We found out we had a lot more in common than we thought and still to this day, even though we are not roommates anymore, he's still my friend," senior Donte Miller said.

So give your roommate a chance before passing judgment. You may find out you’re a lot more alike than you originally thought.

Wilkerson shows the power of the individual

By Malaun House

Norfolk State University’s New Lyceum Speaker series recognizes the author and Pulitzer Prize Winner Isabel Wilkerson for her elaborate book titled, “The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration.” Students and staff listen as she breaks down her story and shares the different moments she

encountered while writing.

“Its actually [the words of Richard Wright] that gave this book it’s title. The Warmth of Other Suns is a phrase that came from his work. I was very influenced by him,” Wilkerson said.

Wilkerson spent 15 years researching and writing the story of three individuals involved in the Great

Pulitzer Prize winner Isabel Wilkerson devoted 15 years to the research and writing of The Warmth of Other Suns. Photo by Tykhari Coles

Migration. Over the course of these years, she learned much about the people that she interviewed, while building relationships that allowed her story to become more personal and relative to her readers.

“I interviewed over 1,200 people to narrow it down to these three main people that I focused in on and I came to know them very well. I spent many months and with some of them years...I love them all and felt a connection with them that allows others to have whatever relationship they want with any of [the characters],” Wilkerson said.

Wilkerson interviewed thousands of people; however, she chose to only share the lives of three migrators. Wilkerson allows the audience to understand that though the novel does teach history, it is not solely about the Great Migration;

it is about the lives of these migrators.

“The book is about freedom and how far people are willing to go to achieve it,” Wilkerson said.

The book also teaches readers that the Great Migration is the epitome of many things that are established today, especially music.

“There would be no Diana Ross. Jazz as we know it would not exist if there was no Great Migration...there would be no Michael Jackson or Jackson 5,” Wilkerson said.

Wilkerson speaks on the power of the individual and how one-by-one, people join together for a better opportunity for themselves. She also speaks about the power of a dream and how people have the desire of freedom so much that they must sacrifice for a new beginning.

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editors Jason Gill Editor-inChief

Danielle Kirsh Online/ Managing Editor Antonio Garland News Editor

Malaun House Lifestyle Editor

Paige Jefferson Sports Editor

Trenton Fouche’ Entertainment Editor Tykhari Coles Multimedia Editor Kallie Gould Graphic Design/ Layout 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

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Common’s “Nobody’s Smiling” gets positive reviews

By Trenton Fouche’

Common is no stranger to the spotlight. After establishing himself as one of the most lyrically gifted rappers of the 90s, he has continued to tread forward. Now, with the release of his latest offering, “Nobody’s Smiling”, he seems destined to continue his legacy.

The album has been praised for its personal perspective, giving fans a glimpse into what he has endured growing up in his hometown of Chicago. In the album’s first single, “Kingdom”, he speaks on many of the dilemmas facing the youth in the inner-city.

“My money ain’t straight, my fam ain’t straight.

Ain’t wanna push keys, heaven couldn’t wait,” he raps. “I was hurtin’, couldn’t get no work. You created me from dust, that’s why I did dirt. You said that the last shall be first now I’m in a hearse, what’s this cash really worth?”

Staying true to his socially conscious roots, Common doesn’t shy away from what has made him one of the most unique artists in his genre. Although the album is a reflection of his own inner-thoughts, Common utilizes some guest appearances as well.

In the single “Blak Majik,” Jhené Aiko lends her vocals on the chorus.

Fellow G.O.O.D. Music affiliate Big Sean also makes an appearance on the track titled “Diamonds.”

In an interview with MTV, Common spoke on the inspiration behind the album. “I was just listening to a lot of Biggie, I can see why people can say he was the greatest.

I was learning a lot from listening to him.”

Although this is Common’s tenth studio album, he sounds just as focused as he was earlier in his career. “Nobody’s Smiling” is now available in stores and on iTunes.

08.29.14

Beyonce’s clothing gets an exhibit at Rock and Roll Hall of Fame The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has announced that it will debut an exhibit exclusively dedicated to Beyonce’s clothing.

The announcement comes as a surprise to many as exhibits are usually reserved for artists who have been inducted into the Hall of Fame based on their musical contributions.

Although the songstress has had a longstanding career, both as a member of the group Destiny’s Child and as a solo artist, she is not eligible for induction until 2022. Many see the exhibit as an attempt to help bridge the gap between legendary and contemporary artists.

“We felt that Beyoncé really needed to take her rightful place alongside Aretha Franklin and the Supremes and Janis Joplin,” said Meredith Rutledge-Borger, the museum’s curator. “Rock and roll has an intergenerational appeal and we want to

By Trenton Fouche’

Outfits from Beyonce's 2003 "Dangerously in Love," 2012 "Met Gala" and 2011 "Run the World (Girls)" are shown in a new exhibit at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. The Rock Hall announced Friday, July 18, 2014, that outfits from Beyonce’s Super Bowl performance and music videos will debut Tuesday in the Ahmet Ertegun Main Exhibit Hall in its Legends of Rock section next to iconic pieces from Michael Jackson, David Bowie and Bruce Springsteen. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

make sure we’re hitting all the right notes and keeping up with what’s happening today and what’s legendary today.”

A staff member from Beyonce’s camp released a statement on how important the exhibit is to the singer.

“For an artist to be able to

have a presence where all of her idols and mentors live, it is a big deal.”

Some of the outfits that will be displayed in the exhibit include her attire from the 2013 Super Bowl halftime show as well as her clothing from the “Single Ladies” music video.

A$AP Rocky accused of assaulting fan during concert

By Trenton Fouche’

Common’s tenth studio album, “Nobody’s Smiling”, gets critical acclaim. Photo from: https://www.facebook.com/thinkcommon/photos/

Authorities are investigating an alleged assault said to have taken place over a year ago involving hip-hop star A$AP Rocky.

The rapper is accused of assaulting a fan during a show in Philadelphia. Lisamarie Wade, the alleged victim, has filed a suit against the star and the organizers in charge of the event.

In a statement released by Wade’s camp, an explanation was given of the events

that allegedly transpired. “[A$AP Rocky] stopped in front of Ms. Wade, turned around, drew back his arm, and struck Ms. Wade forcefully with an open hand on the left side of her face.

[A$AP Rocky] struck Ms. Wade with such force that she was knocked to the ground and became momentarily disoriented,” the suit stated.

Lisamarie Wade had attempted to press criminal

charges last year, but faced difficulties because she was unable to provide an address for the rapper. A document filed by her attorney states that she has had difficulties “enjoying society with her minor child as a young, single mother.”

According to a source at TMZ, Wade is believed to be seeking close to $75,000 in compensation.

A$AP Rocky has yet to respond to the allegations.

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