Tiger's Roar- Homecoming, October 2018

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October 2018

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2 October 2018

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Stacey Abrams speaks about a ‘Georgia Family’ at SSU Ashia Manning, Editor-in-Chief Tuesday evening at Savannah State University, gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams, arrived to give a speech at the gazebo to encourage early voting. The crowd, filled with students, alumni, members of the press and community, brimmed towards the street. The crowd chanted, “Stacey, Stacey, Stacey” as she walked up the cleared sidewalk from her tour bus.

Abrams, alongside Lieutenant Governor candidate Sarah Amico, took to the podium to address the crowd.

“Georgia, Georgia, Georgia!”, Abrams said into the mic, correcting the crowd’s roar.

She continuously stressed early voting to the crowd.

Abrams said, “If you haven’t voted, get it done tomorrow. Because the problem is, life happens all the time. Your car is going to break down before you expect it to, or your kids are going to get sick, or your boss is going to need you to work late, vote early.”

Abrams touched on supporting the LGBTQ community, small businesses, public education investment, addressing mental health awareness, Medicaid expansion, health insurance reform, and a focus on higher education debt.

“I am going to fully invest in our children, from cradle to career,” Abrams said of her plan for Georgia’s school system.

Among the crowd were plenty of Savannah State alumni who especially wanted students to be inspired. Bobby Lockett, an alum of Savannah State, is currently serving as the 3rdDistrict county commissioner.

“Floyd Adams, the first [African-American] mayor of Savannah ran and started off on this campus. Edna

Jackson, the first black female mayor started off on this campus. Otis Johnson, mayor, started off on this campus.

Bobby Lockett, 3rddistrict county commissioner, started off on this campus. Micky Stevens started off on this campus, and you can go down the line.” Lockett said.

Abrams was passionate about her plan to bring jobs to Georgia through a proposed $10 million small business financing plan. “Georgia can bring all the jobs they want, but if every person has to have two or three of them to make a living, it doesn’t matter. I’m the only candidate to invest in small business, because yeah, we can bring Amazon and their 50,000 jobs, but I’m going to be the governor who looks at 5,000 small businesses in Chatham county, in Appling County, in Ware County... those are 50,000 jobs that never leave Georgia,” she said.

Abrams is running on strong grounds of nonpartisanship and was open about some of the stereotypical conversations surrounding her platform.

“I don’t want you to vote for me because I’m black, and I don’t want you to vote for me because I’m a woman. I want you to vote for me because I’m the best, and I am Georgia,” Abrams said.

Abrams also spoke on one of the most controversial topics between the two gubernatorial candidates, which is voter suppression through loopholes in the law. “I’ve got an opponent who feels the playing field is too level,” Abrams said of the 53,000 voter registration applications being held up by Republican nominee Brian Kemp.

Students may be aware of the 53,000 applications being held from processing because of things such as grammar errors and address discrepancies. Abrams wants students to know this is a scare tactic and is being used to thwart voters from showing up.

“We want the 53,000 to show up, bring their IDs, we know there are 159 county registrars who are making decisions. There are thousands of volunteers, and our allies fighting to support them, and we’re going to reach out to

FAQs regarding voting and registration Briana Dodd, Contributing Writer Usually around this time you can’t go a day without seeing an email or person standing in the street asking if you’re registered to vote. That’s because it is time for midterm elections, which is an election that takes place between the election years for president.

When is Election Day?

Tuesday, November 6, 2018. Candidates on the ballot will include those running for governor of Georgia, as well as other key state and local positions.

When is Early Voting?

Early voting began Monday, Oct. 15. Most early voting locations are open on weekdays, but select locations offer weekend voting Oct. 20-27. Students can do early voting at the Voter Registration Office, 1117 Eisenhower Dr., Suite E, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Early voting is also available on Sunday, Oct. 28, from 12 - 5 p.m.

What’s on the ballot?

In addition to voting in the governor and state representatives, voters can also expect to see several questions about state and local issues too. There are also proposed amendments to the State Constitution as well as two more statewide referendum questions.

The two candidates running for governor are Democrat Stacey Abrams and Republican Brian Kemp. One of them will replace Nathan Deal, the current governor.

For lieutenant governor, Democrat Sarah Riggs and Republican Geoff Duncan are running.

Republican Brad Raffensberger, Democrat John Barrow and Libertarian Smythe Duval are battling for Secretary of State. For Attorney General, Republican Chris Carr is facing Democrat Charlie Bailey.

When and where can I vote on Election Day?

To find where you are supposed to vote, visit www.mvp. sos.ga.gov. On Election Day, the polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. You can also vote by absentee voting if you

every voter in Georgia, because there are enough voters in Georgia that we can speak on upon the behalf of the 53,000,” Abrams said.

Abrams and her running mate Amico are scheduled to continue their tour of Georgia, their goal is to make the citizens of each city visited feel as though they have an opportunity to be heard. Abrams said she wants to “keep them from thinking their voices don’t matter and their votes don’t matter.”

Van Johnson, Savannah alderman and alum of Savannah State, hopes that students use the state of our current political climate as motivation for change and more active involvement in politics.

“If life and the condition under which we live and those that exist around us right now is not enough motivation to vote, I don’t know what is,” Johnson said. “The purpose of students being engaged and involved is to be able to make life better for other people. And so that means, those of us who know better need to do better.”

Early voting started for all 159 counties in Georgia on Oct. 15 and ends Nov. 2. The official election day is Nov. 6. To find your early voting location, visit this site for Georgia’s election divisions.

Photo to left Pictured: Sarah Amico speacking to crowd. Taken by Xavier McKnight.

Photo on Bottom Right Pictured : Edna Jackson, past Major of savannah speacking to crowd. Taken by Ashia Manning, Picture used in teaser by Ferrer Dollar/CNN In Georgia, a progressiveformer state House Democratic leader Stacey Abrams is running to become the nation’s first black female governor.

are unable to go to the polls that day. If you are using your campus address, you will vote at Bible Baptist Church, 4700 Skidaway Road, Savannah, Ga. It’s across the street from campus on LaRoche Avenue.

What should I bring?

In order to vote, one must be a U.S. citizen, a resident of Georgia and at least 18 years old by Election Day. You are not eligible to vote if you have been legally declared “mentally incompetent” by a court or are on parole for a felony conviction. Always remember to bring proper identification to the polls. This includes but is not limited to a valid Georgia driver’s license, military ID, US Passport and any other government-issued ID that includes a photo.

Anything else?

Always follow the rules of the voting station so there won’t be any discrepancy when it’s to cast your vote. Last but not least, even if you’re unsure about your choice, your vote counts.

Tiger’s Roar

Editorial

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October 2018

3

In the wake of what’s happening, we can’t be silent Ashia Manning, Editor-in-Chief

“I love America more than any other country in the world and, exactly for this reason, I insist on the right to criticize her perpetually.” James Baldwin On Oct. 15, a group of 40 African-American senior citizens were asked to get off a bus headed to vote, after a government official said the initiative was too partisan.

In Jefferson County, Ga., a bus owned by the group Black Votes Matter was taking the patrons from the county-owned Senior Leisure Center, when the group was stopped and told to vacate the bus. Adam Brett, Jefferson County administrator, later told the Journal-Constitution he felt “uncomfortable” allowing the senior center patrons to leave with a third party, though Black Votes Matter received permission in advance for the event from the senior center.

This is Georgia. This is 2018- 53 years after President Lyndon Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act in August of 1965 in the wake of the Selma protests. The act was to “enforce the 15th Amendment to the Constitution,” according to President Johnson.

It may strike you odd that the 15th Amendment, enabling black men to vote, was ratified in 1870. In the 95 years following that

amendment, African-American people endured brutal violence to deter them from ever feeling like a citizen in this country.

The era of Jim Crow, from 1870 to the 1950s, followed the 15th Amendment’s ratification. So, even though black men could vote, that doesn’t mean they did. Laws were created to form loopholes to keep blacks out of the polls. Some of the tactics used were literacy tests, poll taxes, and grandfather clauses.

This was the time of “separate but equal.” It was illegal for black and white children to even play together; black men were being thrown in jail at alarming rates for petty crimes and couldn’t even sit at the same counter to order food in a restaurant. They weren’t voting, if not out of coercion or manipulation, out of fear.

On Oct. 16, governor candidate Stacey Abrams was in the gazebo on campus holding a voting rally encouraging us to make our voices heard.

The large crowd was filled with more members of the community than students, even though it was in our backyard.

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It would have been satisfying to see more young people involved in the making of history because we are the future. If elected, Abrams would be the first African American and the first woman to be elected governor of Georgia.

We must get motivated. We must move forward with persistence for true justice. People fought for our right to vote. People died for this.

We can’t let their sacrifices be in vain.

On Nov. 6, students must make an effort to get cast their votes, whether locally or by absentee ballot. There are places you can go to get rides to the polls. Uber and Lyft are offering deals for voting. Use the opportunity to make your voice heard.

Ashia Manning- Editor-in-Chief Amanda Wilkins- Layout Editor Carmen Iman- Copy Editor Devorah Brimmer- News Editor Alaygra Wells- Sports Editor Isaiah Singleton- Features Editor Emmalee Walker- Online Editor Advisers Kareem McMichael Jessica Sparks

The Tiger’s Roar is the independent monthly student newspaper of Savannah State University. We welcome and encourage letters to the editor and staff. All letters must include an address and phone number for confirmation.

We reserve the right to edit all published content for purposes of length, style, grammar and libelous material. Ideas expressed in editorials do not reflect the opinions of the editors and staff. The Tiger’s Roar adheres to the Associated Press Stylebook guidelines for stories and headlines.

4 October 2018

Features

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SSU Professor Emeritus honored by White House Alexia Singleton, Contributing Writer

Professor Emeritus Matthew Gilligan recalls comments such as “You’re wasting your time here,” and “That program will never succeed,” but that wasn’t going to stop him from achieving his goals.

Gilligan arrived at Savannah State College in Spring 1980, the year after the institution made efforts to become culturally and Photo courtesy of Savannah Now racially integrated. With a Moring News, By Ann Meyer new marine biology program, the goal of the university and Gilligan was to increase student enrollment and graduation rates in the program.

After earning his doctorate at the University of Arizona and studying marine life in the Sea of Cortez in Mexico, Gilligan’s leap of faith led him to Savannah State, where he pushed to improve the program to where it is today- with a new facility and about 80 undergraduates and 20 graduates.

For over three decades, Gilligan gave the marine biology program the drive that it needed, so much

that it has received major recognition Savannah State is currently top ranked in the nation in bachelor’s and master’s degrees earned by African-Americans in the U.S. in the marine sciences from 2002-2017.

In addition to being a great mentor and colleague, Gilligan has had the opportunity to see STEM students succeed, lead projects that have brought in $9 million to Savannah State, and help build a solid foundation for the program that once had a shaky one.

“I wasn’t content with taking on all of the responsibility of managing a graduate and undergraduate program, the marine lab and teaching classes but it had to be done and it was well worth it,” Gilligan said.

Gilligan retired in 2011; he holds the title Professor Emeritus in honor of his contribution. Faculty of the Savannah State’s Department of Marine Biology program acknowledged the hard work and effort that Gilligan contributed for the past decade as well.

Gilligan recently received an award for his work from the White House. Over the summer, Gilligan was honored with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring.

“Alumni came out of the woodwork to praise Dr. Gilligan and their experiences with him when we posted an announcement about his recent award on Facebook.

He is a mentor to many of us, both faculty and former

students.” said Carol J. Pride, professor and chair of the Department of Marine & Environmental Sciences.

Even after retiring, Gilligan is still making efforts to contribute to the world of marine biology. He is a consultant to the staff of the marine biology program, a member of the National Association of Marine Laboratories and serves on the board of Wilderness Southeast in Savannah, Ga., which is the oldest ecotourism organization in the city.

Photo by Alexia Singleton

Gilligan has always had the same goal; to bridge the gap between science and application.

“The most vulnerable communities are the ones least represented in our science and application need to be able to predict, deal with and recover from environmental disaster,” he said.

October focuses on mental health issues worldwide Carmen Iman, Copy Editor Mental health has been on the forefront of many discussions this year after high-profile suicides like those of celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain and designer Kate Spade. Approximately 1 in 5 adults in the United States suffer from a mental health illness, according to the National Alliance on Mental Health.

Mental health is a tough topic, and still a taboo for some. World Mental Health Day was Oct. 10, and many celebrities spoke candidly about their issues with mental health and the need for mental health awareness.

World Mental Health Day was started by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992 to promote mental health advocacy and to educate the public on relevant issues.

Celebrities such as Miley Cyrus, Lady Gaga, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Prince Harry and Gabrielle Union all lent their voices to advocate for seeking help and being open about struggling with mental health issues.

Gaga co-wrote an essay in the Guardian with Tedros Adhanom, director-general of the World Health Organization (WHO), about suicide and the mental health crisis. According to the article 800,000 people die by suicide each year.

“By the time you finish reading this, at least six people will have killed themselves around the world. Those six are a tiny fraction of the 800,000 people who will

kill themselves this year – more than the population of Washington DC, Oslo or Cape Town,” Gaga and Adhanom wrote.

The American Society for Suicide Prevention’s (ASFP) Savannah chapter held its annual Out of Darkness Walk on Sept. 30, marking the end of Suicide Awareness Month.

Photo by Carmen Iman

Danny Skalak, co-chairperson for ASFP Savannah, says he got involved with the organization after losing his father to suicide. He urges others to break the stigma of mental health issues.

“I hate that there’s stigma. People don’t want to talk to other people who are going through these mental health issues. People tend to stay away. If someone has cancer, people say ‘I feel so bad for this person, let’s take care of

them, let’s go visit them,’ but there’s this horrible stigma with mental health issues,” he said.

For some, cost of treatment is what bars them from getting help for mental health issues. Help is becoming far more accessible with several options like slidingscales, texting, calling and even free sessions with training institutes.

Although nothing can compare to care from a mental health professional, there are a number of mental health resources, including suicide and crisis management that are easily available: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline -- 1-800273-8255.

Crisis Text Line -- Text “HOME” to 741741.

Students should utilize the counselling services on campus.

Other options for cost-effective treatment with mental health professionals: Private therapists often have sliding scales and only require proof of income. Local training institutes may offer free therapy sessions. Openpathcollective.org aims to match low-income people and families with affordable therapy.

Mental health is just as important as physical health and should be treated with the same attention and urgency.

Always call 911 in a crisis.

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Features

October 2018

5

Are you ready for the 2018 Homecoming Experience?

Kyra Stone, Contributing Writer

Students are gearing up and ready for a week full of activities, connections, and a game against Norfolk State University for Homecoming at Savannah State University.

This year Homecoming kicks off on Sunday Oct. 21 with an Ecumencial Service in the Student Union Ballroom at 5 p.m.

Some of the big events happening this week include a comedy show featuring Chico Bean and Karlous Miller from the MTV Show “Wild & Out” followed by a concert from rapper Lil Baby and Gunna. On Thursday, the annual coronation of Mister and Miss Savannah State University will take place. On Friday, the Homecoming Experience will feature artists Tank, Jaquees, Plies, and Rico Barino.

Alumnus and Program Coordinator at Savannah State Dewayne Gillard said he is ready for the week. “The event that I am excited for is on Wednesday: the comedy show and the concert. I am most excited for the comedy show with Chico Bean, Karlous Miller, and Darren Brand because I love comedy, I love to have fun, and I love to laugh,” he said.

Students are also excited about this year’s Homecoming roster.

Jamal Hendrix, mass communications major, said, “This year Homecoming events are very thought out and well planned. To have pop culture artist like Lil Baby, Gunna, Plies, Jaquees, that’s something the Campus Activities Board planned very well.”

Students can join the Homecoming events by purchasing tickets at the Savannah State University’s Bookstore.

Student Perspectives:

What do you think about Homecoming events this year?

Ciaro Dubose (left), Freshman: “I think it’s going to be fun.”

Jada Braxton (right), Freshman: “It’s definitely going to be lit.”

Kyseem Tillman, Senior: “I think this year’s Homecoming event is going to be something the freshmen can really get involved with and I think it’s exciting.”

Rashaun Inman, Senior: “It’s pretty dope.

We have a lot of good artists coming; I think that it will be fun.”

Brea Davis, Senior: “I think this year’s Homecoming is going to be one of the best ones we have had in awhile.”

Greek life plays huge part in the HBCU atmosphere Michael Payne, Contributing Writer As Homecoming approaches, the smell of grilled food and the sound of the Fighting Tiger Marching Band begins to fill the air. With the changing of the season and turning of the leaves, Greek paraphernalia makes way into a more prominent role on campus.

Since 1942 Savannah State University’s campus has been home to the “Divine Nine” or the National Pan-Hellenic Council Greek organizations.

Savannah State alumnus and Greek Life Advisor Shed Dawson said the fraternities and sororities are a major part of the campus experience at the university.

Dawson, who is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., said there has been an average of about 150 students involved in Greek life on campus since Fall 2012.

With the declining enrollment at the university, the membership of Greek organizations at the university has also declined. In Spring 2018, the rosters showed 121 members. In Fall 2012, when the university had 4582 students, 268 members were active on campus, according to records from Dawson.

However, the Greek organizations create a big portion of the events that happen on campus, which increases student activity.

“About 40 percent [of on-campus activities] are conducted by Greek letter organizations,” Dawson said.

Incoming freshmen come to the university have preconceived ideas of what Greek organizations mean at HBCUs and campus life. Some students have no point of reference, while other students see only what is posted on social media such as Twitter or Instagram.

In his undergraduate years at Savannah State, Dawson said, he was “distracted from Greek life and wasn’t really interested.” He said he misunderstood Greek organizations to be “elitist groups that separated themselves from the campus,” initially; however, while researching a grant when he was a junior, Dawson said he learned about the contributions the Greeks were making.

“I had it wrong,” he said. “Everything that was good, the fraternities and sororities were involved in it.”

Afolabi Ayangbayi, a recent graduate of SSU and member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., was born and raised in Nigeria.

“I knew nothing about Greek life,” said Ayangbayi.

That changed in his second semester of college after a pique of interest following a probate. Some of his football teammates crossed that semester. He joined soon after.

“It’s a whole different world” he said. The connections and friendships that he developed serve as a networking tool that will last a lifetime, he said.

Javon Leary, a senior, is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Leary said the connections made through membership are one of the top advantages he could identify for joining the organization.

“The two jobs I have now, I got them on the spot, no interview,” he said.

Students interested in joining a Greek organization must maintain a GPA of 2.75 or higher and must be on track to graduate. They are expected to attend a minimum of six “Tiger STRIPES” events, as well. STRIPES events emphasize leadership and community service.

These events are for the development of students outside of the classroom.

The relationship between the fraternities has changed dramatically in recent years. In the past, brothers in fraternities would be encouraged to support other fraternal groups, but now, the organizations exhibit separatism.

“I think one of our biggest problems is people come in with their minds made up,” said Dawson. “Back then you would go to multiple interest meetings.”

Often students have a preconceived notion of the different personalities associated with fraternities and sororities and attempt to live up to those personas disregarding the true principles and ideals of the organization.

Amir Touré, professor of Africana Studies and member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., said the nature of the organizations has changed since he crossed with his line in 1986.

The pledging process has changed a lot, Touré said.

Part of that being the secrecy of being on line. “It was out in the open when we were on line,” said Touré.

When pointing out other differences he said, “people are ostracized” for attending interest meetings and events by different organizations.

Touré shared examples of unified and peaceful interactions with other Greeks, “First we are Savannah State and we looked out for one another.”

Unity in such a way that there is record of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. at one point hosted joint anniversary celebrations as they share the same charter day, April 28, 1949.

“That’s unity and people understood that,” said Touré.

Picture used in front teaser by Litus Marshall, Homecoming step show 2017

6 October 2018

Sports

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Senior football player discusses goals, post-graduate plans Malik Giles, Contributing Writer As he prepares for his last season on the Savannah State University football team, senior safety Donald Rutledge says he plans to pursue a professional career in football whether on the field or coaching.

Rutledge is a civil engineering major at SSU and plans to use his degree in civil engineering to become a project manager.

“I don’t see myself digging any holes, but I do see myself telling others where to dig them,” he said.

Rutledge, number 21, has been playing at the university since January 2016.

He previously attended The Citadel, a wellknown military college in South Carolina, before transferring to Savannah State to play for the football team.

Rutledge was born in the Bronx, N.Y., and raised in Sumter, S.C., where he attended Crestwood High School.

Rutledge is seen as a leader by other players on the team.

“Rut is a very influential person, and is a type of leader who leads by example. It’s easy for young guys to look up to him because he practices what he

Athletic department, Donald Rutledge

preaches,” said Darrell Bonner, junior cornerback.

Even on Rutledge’s “most relaxed day,” he goes to a full day of classes, then returns to his dorm room to play the video game, Fortnite. As he plays, he laments about the SSU game against at the University of Miami to his friends on his headset. The weekend before, the football team lost 77-0 in Coral Gables, Fla. At 6 p.m., Rutledge changes into his workout uniform and heads to the campus to complete his day-off workout.

Isaiah Bennett, a junior safety, was at the Body Shop

when Rutledge arrived.

“Donald is not scared of no challenge, he’s a hard worker, he loves the game football. Off the field he’s outgoing and just a cool person to be around,” Bennett said.

The following Tuesday morning, the team returns to the practice field. Rutledge shows effort and skill during the routines and drills. He’s not the target of the coach’s energy this day.

After practice, John Wilson, a senior cornerback said, “Rut does a good job letting the team know that he can do his part on and off the field. He plays safety, and I play corner so pretty much when he’s on my side he lets it be known it’s locked down.”

Other players agreed.

“Rut is a good guy who will help his teammates in any way he can. He is a leader in character and on the field as a football player. His determination is destined for greatness, which taught me a lot through the years that I’ve known him,” said Roddre Hardwick, outside linebacker.

Playing football has been a passion of Rutledge’s since he was 10 years old and he was ranked top 10 for tackles for the MEAC Conference in 2017.

He was on the radar of NFL scouts when they visited the school.

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Sports

October 2018

7

‘You can get anywhere from here,’ Alumni who have made it BIG

COLUMN: Falcons offense is underrated this season

Savannah State University has had multiple individuals that not only graduated

Alaygra Wells, Sports Editor

Rose Jones, Contributing Writer

with their degrees, but who also became known as professional athletes.

Alante Fenner, plays professional basketball overseas for the Liga Nacional de Basquetbol de Chile. Fenner graduated from Savannah State University in May of 2018. While at Savannah State, Fenner was named MEAC player of the week and named to the 2017-2018 MEAC All Conference Team. He scored his career high game of 46 points against Morgan State University on February 10, 2018. Recently, Fenner was featured in the Diarioaustral Region de \os Rios Newspaper Issue, for the meeting of Friendship Organization by the School of Basketball.

Troy Hambrick, is a former NFL running back for the Dallas Cowboys and Arizona Cardinals. Hambrick was born December 6, 1976 in Lacoochee, Fl. Hambrick transferred to Savannah State as a starting running back for the Tigers. Hambrick was recognized for his records he set in football from having the most rushing touchdowns, rushing yards and most total touchdowns in 2000. Hambrick was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Dallas Cowboys. Hambrick is most known as the player known who replaced Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith as the Cowboys starting running back. In May 2004, Hambrick was signed as a free agent by the Oakland Raiders. However, within a month Hambrick was traded to the Arizona Cardinals. In 2007 he signed with the Utah Blaze of the AFL for a comeback attempt but was waived due to an arrest.

Ernest Miller, is a former professional wrestler who most notably competed in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) from 1997-2004. Miller was born January 14, 1964 in Atlanta, Ga. Miller started at Savannah State as a linebacker for the Tigers football program. Miller then transitioned and started a career in karate where he won the world championship three times.

He began his professional wrestling career in 1997 by weighing 235 lb. and standing at a height of 6 ft. 2., and went by the name “The Cat”. Miller was ranked as number 497 of the 500 best wrestlers during the Pro Wrestling Illustrated in 2003.

Kyle McGowin, is currently a pitcher for the Washington Nationals. He graduated from Savannah State University in 2014. While at SSU, he led the MEAC in strikeouts (111) and wins and was Nationally ranked sixth by the end of the season of his senior year. McGowin was drafted in the fifth round of MLB’S First- Year Player Draft by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. He made his first debut on Sept 5th for the Washington Nationals. In his professional debut, McGowin retired his first eleven batters he faced before giving up two out single and walk in the fourth against the Miami Marlins. McGowin wishes to improve as the future season comes along but is grateful for this opportunity. “I can’t thank Davey and the Nationals enough for giving me this opportunity. Everything worked out where I was able to have this opportunity and felt comfortable starting finally.” - Kyle McGowin on his first MLB start Shannon Sharpe:, a former NFL tight end that played for the Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens. Sharpe went to Savannah State University where he was involved in numerous sports such as football, track and field, and basketball. While at Savannah State, Sharpe was a key player for Savannah State Tigers becoming a three-time All-Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference selection from 1987-1989. Sharpe set new records for Savannah State’s in the years 1988 and 1989. In 1990, Sharpe was drafted in the 7th round as pick 192. Sharpe played 12 seasons for the Denver Broncos from (1990-99, 2002-03) and two seasons with the Baltimore Ravens from (2000-01). As an NFL player, Sharpe has won three championship rings in Super Bowl XXXII, Super Bowl XXXIII and Super Bowl XXXV. After his playing career ended, Sharpe’s began getting involved in sports broadcasting by becoming a commentator for television shows such as CBS Sports pregame show, The NFL Today and Fox Sports 1’s, Undisputed. Sharpe was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on August 6, 2011.

The Atlanta Falcons have the best receiving core in the NFL. The 2018 season opener pitted the team against Super Bowl Champs, the Philadelphia Eagles, after the Falcons lost to the Eagles during the NFC Championship.

Despite the loss, the receiving core were still pegged as top of the league. Mohamed Sanu Sr., who’s not your average size slot receiver, is great at navigating routes and produced 67 passes for 703 yards in five touchdowns last season. Sanu’s versatility on the field makes a huge asset for the Falcons. He is the only non-quarterback with two or more touchdown passes of at least 50 yards over the past 35 years. Matthew “Matty Ice” Ryan could use his back up QB skills when he’s not passing consistently.

The NFL’s best receiver Julio Jones is an explosive athlete who has reliable hands. He was a standout player from the University of Alabama, the mecca of college football.

Jones who was drafted sixth overall in 2011, a guy who is a 5-time pro-bowler. You can’t go wrong with all those attributes.

Lastly, the Falcons have another Alabama breed standout, Calvin Ridley, a 5-star wide receiver who is entering his first year, which is another offensive weapon. He’s quick and sharp at running deep routes and fast breaks.

The Falcons need to stay more consistent in the red zone and build a stronger defense in order to sustain the rest of the season.

In Week 7, Sanu, who has made improvements from last year, has gotten more efficient with his targets. So far he has 303 receiving yards, averaging 13.77 per game, with 3 touchdowns.

Ridley, who is definitely living up to the hype with his red zone success, has been impressive. Ridley became the first rookie in NFL history to have six touchdown receptions in his first four games after his first two-touchdown game in Week 4 against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Ridley is Jones’ beneficiary, while Jones still remains this season with no touchdowns but has managed to gain 707 receiving yards.No NFL receiver has ever produced that number of receiving yards during the first six games of the season. There’s no wide receiver in the NFL right now who has that many receiving yards without scoring any touchdowns.

Both Sanu and Ridley account for nine of Atlanta’s 14 receiving touchdowns. Both have proved to be good second and third options behind Julio. All-in-all, the Falcons’ offense is loaded with underrated players, and is definitely not one to ever sleep on.

Alaygra Wells is senior mass communications major at Savannah State University. Her opinions to not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Tiger’s Roar.

Tiger’s Roar

8 October 2018

Danielle Birzer, Contributing Writer

tigersroar.com

Halloween Happenings

Oct. 19 – 31

Alee Terror Plantation Haunted House, 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

The Alee Shriners of Savannah are hosting their 12th annual haunted house. Tickets are $10 a person at the door. Over 800 people were too afraid to finish the house last year.

Oct. 25 – 31

Ghosts of Grayson, 8 p.m., Grayson Stadium Get spooked at Grayson Stadium “Fright of the Season.”

Purchase tickets online on the Savannah Bananas website. VIP tickets are $40 and include a guided tour through the stadium, access to a secret room, two cocktails and VIP walk-up status. General admission is $20 with a guided tour through the stadium and a reserved time slot for your walk-through.

Refreshments will be served afterward.

Oct. 26

Hocus Pocus: Movie & Costume Party, 7 p.m., Ghost Coast Distillery.

Start off Halloween week with a showing of Disney’s “Hocus Pocus” at the Ghost Coast Distillery featuring special drinks and refreshments keeping in theme. A dollar for each drink will be given to Coastal Pet Rescue who will be bringing cats who are available for adoption to the event.

Oct. 26 – 31

The Rocky Horror Show LIVE!, 7:30 p.m., Bay Street Theatre Savannah is quivering with anticipation to see the infamous Broadway cult classic directed by Travis H. Coles.

Showtime is at 7:30 p.m. with an additional midnight showing of the play on Halloween night. All performances are for ages 18 and up with the exception of Sunday’s performance.

Tickets are available online or at the box office at 7 p.m. General admission is $20 and VIP is $25.

Oct. 27

A Nightmare on Congress Street, The Rail Pub This bar crawl is known as Savannah’s largest costume contest with a cash prizes of $2,000. Take the crawl at your own pace with featured drinks at each bar on Congress Street. If you or your team are of the first 250 participants to finish, you will receive a free t-shirt. Everyone who registers will receive a swag bag, a koozie, a scorecard, map and free entry into each bar on the crawl.

Pick-up your swag bag from 4-9 p.m., after party begins at Club 51 Degrees anytime between 6 p.m.-11 pm. Don’t forget your ID! Register on the Eventbrite website.

Oct. 28 - 31

Flashback Cinema Presents: The Shining, Oct. 28, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Oct. 31, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. - GTC Pooler Cinemas See the classic horror thriller “The Shining” (1980) starring Jack Nicholson and Shelly Duvall.

“Heeeeeerreee’s Johnny!” Film is rated R.

Oct. 30

Devil’s Night ~ Halloween in Underworld, 10 p.m.3 a.m., The White Rabbit Lounge.

Come to the White Rabbit Lounge’s darkest night of the year celebrating Halloween down the rabbit hole.

Doors open at 9 p.m. with music and dancing starting at 10 p.m. A costume contest will be held at 12 a.m. with cash prizes available. Alice in Wonderland themed drinks will be available.

Oct. 31

SSU’s 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat presented by Savannah State University Department of Public Safety and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Get ready for a spooky night of treats and tricks in the student union parking lot. Games, candy, inflatables, and much more will be open to the public from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Major film productions boost economy in Savannah Neisha Rogers. Contributing Writer Savannah is stealing the spotlight from other cities as the go-to place to make movies. Several local entities in the city and state have teamed up to make Savannah a competitive location for Hollywood filmmakers.

In 2014, the Savannah Economic Development Authority (SEDA) put together a team of stakeholders and industry professionals recommended by Hollywood producer Stratton Leopold.

One of the team’s first decisions was to hire Emmy award-winning production expert Ralph Singleton to market the city of Savannah from Los Angeles, a decision which has sparked an explosion in the film industry. There has now been over $200 million in economic impact due to film and television involvement in Savannah, according to SEDA. “As we have started to see over the last few years as a result of our efforts, strategy can work when

it is executed well by a community of people and organizations all pushing in the same direction,” said Brynn Grant, chief operating officer at SEDA. About 580 local crew members, 470 small businesses, and 850 area film locations have played a key role in the booming film industry.

Singleton, entertainment industry liaison for the Savannah Area Film Office, said, “You want them to hire local people, because local people use the local banks, your local schools; that’s why we’re doing this in the first place.”

Currently, a film under the working title “Goodbye, Stranger” is rumored to be a liveaction remake of the Disney’s classic “Lady and the Tramp.” Downtown Savannah has been remodeled to resemble the 1900s background of the original film. Pedestrian and vehicle traffic restrictions downtown have been put in place as filming requires. “Goodbye, Stranger” is expected to continue shooting until December.

In the past year, Disney’s Marvel Studios shot scenes for feature film “Ant-Man and the Wasp” in Savannah, bringing in approximately $3.7 million dollars of economic spending to the city. “The Poison Rose” starring John Travolta and Morgan Freeman and “Gemini Man” starring Will Smith, were also filmed in Savannah recently.

Harrison Russell, an aspiring actor, traveled from Atlanta to Savannah to be part of Gemini Man. “It was fun for me because I truly appreciate the art and every single aspect of filmmaking,” he said.

“It’s definitely just extra income. It worked for me because I worked my regular job and I worked on set,” said Russell, who was Will Smith’s stand-in and body double on set.

Within the next 2 years, SEDA is hoping to build a fully functioning multi-level entertainment production studio that film studios and companies from all around the world can call home.