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Volume 64, Issue 10
TOTAL DOMINATION Diamond elected as SGA President; Magee wins Miss Southern
Derylle Spears II/DIGEST SGA President Elect Dominique Diamond is all smiles as he celebrates with family and friends after hearing the 2015 Election results.
2015 Student Election Results SGA President Dominique Diamond 720 Lawrence Williams 528 Miss Southern JaMya MaGee Jaquel Watts
679 563
AWS President Zana Harris 468 Kadasjah McMillion 349 Miss Junior Corinne Vaughn Taylor Semones
179 159
Miss Sophomore Tiara Johnson Breanna Willis
291 123
Referendum Results on page 2.
Alliyah Moore/DIGEST Newly elected Miss Southern JaMya Magee is overwhelmed with emotion after hearing the 2015 Election results outside of the Smith-Brown Memorial Union.
SU all in Favor; New Student Leaders Chosen By LAQUENCIA PARKER DIGEST NEWS EDITOR
Students gathered in hushed voices on the steps of the Smith-Brown Memorial Union in anticipation of the annoucement of the new Southern Univesity student leaders and referendums. Dominique Diamond was elected as the 2015-16 SGA President, while JaMya MaGee was appointed the title of Miss Southern. Zana Harris became President of the Association for Women Students, and Tiara Johnson and Corinne Vaughn took Miss Sophomore and Miss Junior respectively. Of the five proposed referendums, four were passed including adding three dollars to to the Gold ‘n’ Bluez Dance Team fee, increasing the Jaguar Ambassadors fee from one dollar to three, increasing the Human Jukebox fee from five to 10 dollars, and the creation of the 20 for 20 fee. The only unapproved referendum was that of increasing the amount of the fee for the cheer team. To showcase candidates’ platforms and views, the SU Revue and Debate was held in the F.G. Clark Activity Center on April 16. While the pageant highlighted beauty and grace, the debate focused on the platforms of candidates, and their idea for the SUBR campus during their terms. The panel of judges presenting questions
to the candidates was made up of: Jemiela Castleberry, former Miss Junior (2011-12) and Association for Women Students President (2012-13), Shantrice Hurst, Miss SU (2000-01), Twyana Cain, Advisor to Miss Southern University (2014-15), Willie McCorkle, III SGA President (2012-13), Justin McCorkle, SGA President (2005-06), Jason Hughes, Former SGA Treasurer, Chief of Staff and Senior Senator, and Lauren Johnson, current Editor-In-Chief of the Southern Digest. Amongst other questions asked, the panelists asked the candidates running for SGA President what they would do in regards to campus security. Candidate Lawrence Williams responded with his plans to have an open door policy while in office, saying, “I plan on having my office door open, so that any student can speak to me.” Williams’ opponent Dominique Diamond shared a moment where he physically ended a situation of violence on campus, and also explained his plan to hold seminars that would allow for interaction between students and the Southern University Police Department. The panel went on to inquire whether or not the presidential candidates were in attendance at the Statewide Higher Education Demonstration. Neither were, but for different reasons.
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Before the candidates could answer the crowd responded with displeasure, and “booing”, many commented saying “that’s shade.” “I had class,” explained Diamond, who also cited campaigning as another reason for his absence. Diamond added that he has plans to attend another demonstration as well. Williams also attributed his lack of presence to campaigning. The candidates were also asked what were the current referendums, and their stance on them. Diamond recalled two of the five regarding increasing fees for cheerleaders and the Gold n’ Bluez, and said he was in favor of them all. “These groups support the university, we should support them,” said Diamond. Williams recalled four of the five and was also in support, as he feels the referendums will offer equal opportunity to all students. Being the last question asked, next was the opportunity for the Miss Southern candidates to answer questions by the panel. When asked to describe themselves with three words and what made them a better choice than their candidate both responded in an uncompetitive manner. The event ended with the last walk of the 2014-2015 Miss Southern, Shanice Sam.
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The Southern Digest SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY
SUITE 1064 – T.H.HARRIS HALL – P.O. BOX 10180 – BATON ROUGE, LA 70813 225.771.2231 PHONE / 225.771.5840 FAX WWW.SOUTHERNDIGEST.COM The Southern DIGEST is written, edited and published by members of the student body at Southern University and A&M College. The Southern DIGEST is published once weekly (Tuesday with a run count of 4,000 copies per issue during the Southern University - Baton Rouge campus fall, spring semesters. The paper is free to students, staff, faculty and general public every Tuesday & Friday morning on the SUBR campus. The Southern DIGEST student offices are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday - Friday. The offices are located on the first floor of T.H. Harris Hall, Suite 1064. ISSN: 1540-7276. Copyright 2015 by The Southern University Office of Student Media Services. All articles, photographs and graphics are property of The Southern DIGEST and its contents may not be reproduced or republished without the written permission from the Editor in Chief and Director of Student Media Services. The Southern DIGEST is the official student newspaper of Southern University and A&M College located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Articles, features, opinions, speak out and editorials do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the administration and its policies. Signed articles, feedback, commentaries and features do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors, staff or student body.
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DIGEST STAFF SPRING 2015
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lauren Johnson
DIGEST STAFF WRITERS
MANAGING EDITOR Felix Cunningham III
Marchandrea Seals Sage Edgerson Osita Ajoko Deja Lodree
STAFF COPY EDITOR Laquencia Parker
Jacaria Bickham
CO-LAYOUT EDITORS Derylle Spears II Marcus Tomlin
Destiny Smith Sharita Sims Natori Sims Kaylen Scott Jaylen Scott Ymani Wright Romel Williams
A&E EDITOR Melinda Dupas
DIGEST PHOTOGRAPHERS
SPORTS EDITOR Felix Cunningham III
Astavven Cotton Jade Foy Joshua Mcknight Jasmine Reed Tyra Brownlee Imani Lee
NEWS EDITOR Laquencia Parker
PHOTO EDITOR Alliyah Moore ONLINE EDITOR Kayla Foster
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PAGE 2 / CAMPUS BRIEFS All submissions must be received by 3p.m. each Friday for Tuesday’s Issue. PAGE 2 is only available to officially registered campus organizations, Southern University Departments. All briefs should include a date, time, contact name & number. Submit announcements to: The Southern DIGEST - Suite 1064 Harris Hall, Attn: PAGE 2 You my also email: digest@subr.edu CORRECTIONS Fact and accuracy is our goal and our job. As the voice of the Southern University student body we are committed to ensuring to most fair, truthful and accurate accounts of our work. In the event of an error we will make all corrections on Page 2. Bring corrections to The Southern DIGEST office located in Suite 1064, Harris Hall.
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THE WEEK AHEAD: 4-DAY WEATHER OUTLOOK TUES. APRIL 21
WEDS. APRIL 22
THURS. APRIL 23
FRI. APRIL 24
SUNNy
RAINy
CLOUDy
RAINy
HI - 81° / LO - 58° 0% CHANCE OF RAIN
HI - 85/ LO - 66° 80% CHANCE OF RAIN
HI - 86° / LO - 69° 50% CHANCE OF RAIN
HI - 86/ LO - 73° 90% CHANCE OF RAIN
Campus Briefs SUS DAY AT THE CAPITOL Rally on the steps of the State Capitol this Wednesday, April 22, 2015 2p.m.-4p.m. All student, faculty, staff and alumni are encouraged to attend. JUNIOR CLASS T-SHIRT GIVEAWAY Wednesday, April 22, 2015 from 12p.m.-2p.m. in the Smith-Brown Memorial Union. A CLASSIC AFFAIR The Beta Psi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc will be hosting their Spring Soiree on Sunday, April 26, 2015 at 6pm in the Royal Cotillion Ballroom. Tickets are only $20. This event is for ladies only. SUMTA CHAMBER CONCERT SERIES Will be held in Stewart Auditorium April 29, 2015 at 4p.m. Admission is free. LAST DAY OF CLASSES April 30 is the last day of classes for the Spring 2015 Semester. Final Exams will begin May 1.
SU GAME ROOM The SU Student Union Game room and Bowling Alley is open from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. Students are encouraged to participate in tournaments each semester. For more information contact Recreational Coordinator Gerald Jones at 225-7712020. BAPTIST MINISTRY The Baptist Collegiate Ministry at Southern University holds Sunday services at 11:30 a.m. and bible study on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Services are held at the Louisiana Baptist State Convention Baptist Student Center located at 724 Harding Blvd. REVEALING REVELATION The Berean Seventh Day Adventist SU Campus Ministry will host an indepth and interactive study of Revelation’s prophecies until April 24. Meetings will be at 7 p.m. every week night in the Seymour Gym Downstairs Classroom. NATIONAL ACADEMIC SIGNING DAY The Southern University System with host National
Academic Signing Day on Saturday, April 25 in the Royal Cotillion Ballroom from 12p.m.-2p.m. #IAMSU #WEARESOUTHERN #NATIONALSIGNINGDAY
HBCU CAMPUS QUEENS
COLOR RUN Miss Southern will host the First Annual Jags get Fit Color Run on Saturday, May 2, 2015 Follow: @subr_sga on instagram for event information CAR SHOW The Capital City Car show has been rescheduled to Saturday May 2, 2015 at the A.W. Mumford Stadium Parking lot. Participants are asked to register their car, bike, atc, or truck by viditing capitalcitycarshowbr.com. The event is free to all SU students with a valid student ID. FEMALE SUMMIT Southern University Office of Student Life will host “Empower Her” on Saturday, May 2, 2015 at 8a.m.-2.p.m. in the Royal Cotillion Ballroom. Dress code: Sundress and Sandals. 2015 JAGUAR YEARBOOK The Jaguar yearbook will meet every Friday at 11am. If you would like to join the staff stop by 1064 T.H. Harris Hall.
VOTE! VOTE! VOTE! VOTE! Be sure to cast your vote for our 84th/ Centennial Miss Southern University as she is vying to be featured as an HBCU Campus Queen in Ebony Magazine! Visit Ebony.com to cast your vote today!
SU receives new recycled bins By LAUREN JOHNSON
News
DIGEST EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
The Coca-Cola company recently donated five new recycling bins to the Southern University Baton Rouge campus. Being apart of the Toyota Go Green initiative program, Southern University has taken the pledge to become a cleaner and healthier campus. To provide needed resources, current ambassador Channing Evans, Senior Nursing major of Slidell, contacted Coca-Cola along with other companies to donate recycle bins to Southern University. The recycle bins are located in common areas, such as the library, student union, the office of admissions, T.T Allain, and by Administrative building. When asked why this initiative was important to the students at Southern Evans responded saying “We should have pride in our school, keep it clean.” “This is our home away from home,” finished Evans. “ I would like to thank Mr. Curtis from Coca-Cola, Eli G. Guillory III, Jael Gordon and Linda Crawford, for all of their support,” said Evans. During the SU Spring Fest Evans plans to have a table set up in the student union. Evans
Courtesy/SU Media Relations Chancellor Flandus McClinton and Toyota Go-Green Campus Ambassador Channing Evans pose together next to one of the new Coca-Cola recycling bins.
invites students to stop by and commit to recycling, find out more ways to keep a clean campus, and how to become an ambassador for the campus initiative program.
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Supporters rally to impede budget cuts By LAUREN JOHNSON DIGEST EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
This April marks the beginning of an historical lawmaking session. The Louisiana Legislature has until June to fix the current budget cut crisis. The current budget will be a threat to public colleges and universities. To show their disdain for the impending budget cuts, students from Southeastern, Louisiana State, Southern University, Southern University of New Orleans and other higher education institutions came together during a demonstration held on April 15 at the Louisiana State capitol from noon until 3 p.m. With the theme of “No Funds, No Peace” and “No funds, No Future,” several school and state representatives spoke during the event. “We will not take this any longer,” said State Representative Pat Smith. “I want to commend you for being here, I don’t mind speaking against what is happening for higher education. You guys are my future and each one of you should have an opportunity to be what you want and can be,” added Smith. “The only way this can happen is if we stand tall as a legislature to the governor, enough is enough,” finished Smith. The second person to take the stand was State Representative Edward Ted James. “I am honored, thrilled, and blessed to be here to re-enforce this current battle we have been fighting. “We don’t have a revenue problem in Louisiana, but a priority problem,” said James. “I don’t care how many movies
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are filmed in Baton Rouge, if we don’t have money for higher education.” “My concern rests with the students and their parents that have been taxed out of a good education,” finished James. Current SGA President Robert Fisher of Baton Rouge Community College explains that students are not able to live their dreams with continuous budget cuts. “We are not able to achieve the American Dream, we cannot fight this battle alone. We need our legislature to get on board,” said Fisher. Executive President of LSU Law Kenneth Barnes Jr., shared the experiences he has witnessed with other colleagues. “I have seen many students that have to prolong graduation, because classes are not offered. We are asking that we prioritize higher education,” said Barnes. In regards to SU representation, there were fewer than 10 students that rode the SGA shuttle that was arranged to transport students to the location of the demonstration. “ I take the blame, I feel I could have gotten the word out more,” said SGA President Nicholas Harris. Harris went on to say that he felt that campaign week was another factor as to why students didn’t attend. “It is campaign week, and I know that they can’t campaign off campus, but I do feel it would have been a greater look if the persons that were running would have put on their SU gear, told there campaign team to do the same and came to the demonstration.”
Sustainability Demonstration
Tuesday, April 21, 2015 - Page 3
Alliyah Moore/DIGEST Southern University SGA President Nicholas Harris and SUNO SGA President Dylen Johnson speak out against higher education budget cuts in Louisiana during the Statewide Higher Education Demonstration at the Lousiana State Capitol, April 18.
Commenting on the current campaign season, Harris made a connection between the demonstration and campaign week. “The overall level of competition is down at SU. I have never seen so many unopposed candidates running at SU.” Southern University of New Orleans currently has faced over 8 million dollars in budget cuts in the last decade. SUNO SGA President Dylen Johnson took the stand screaming the chant “No justice no peace, No justice no peace, we will have no peace, until we have justice for our higher education institutions,” said Johnson. “We can not afford to have any more self generated funds paying for our education. There are fewer classes provided with raised
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tuition and less services provided. We can not afford to have any more cuts from the Southern system,” said Johnson. “We want to be doctors, lawyers and social workers, but who is looking out for the next doctor, lawyer or social worker?” asked Johnson. “Currently the state of Louisiana has failed our higher education and this will break the link between high school students, current students and the state they live in,” finished Johnson. There will be an SUS day at the capitol on April 22 from 2p.m. until 4 p.m. Faculty and students are asked to meet at the F. G Clark Activity Center, and shuttles will be provided beginning at 12:30 p.m. The first 500 persons to arrive at the capitol will be given a t-shirt to wear showing jaguar pride.
REFERENDUM RESULTS: Referendum #1 (20 for 20 fee)
By DESTINY SMITH DIGEST NEWS WRITER
On Wednesday, April 15, the Sustainability Demonstration Conference was held in the Cotillion Ballroom of the student union. The conference was organized to bring students of various majors together to present projects dealing with protection of the planet, and promotion of overall human sustainability. Many of the projects on display had months of research put into them, with some requiring a full year of advance research. Aramis Harris, a senior Agriculture Economics major shared what motivated him to participate in the event. “The United States has an increasing trend of obesity, so I wanted to do research on a topic that addressed that,” said Harris. “Right now, the daily recommendation for fruits and vegetables is five a day, so my research team and I wanted to bring more light to that.” Harris finished. Gagandeep Kaur and her research partner Dhierrendra Singh, both graduate students from India majoring in Environmental Toxicology, displayed a project titled “NLRP12”, which is the protein coding gene that is responsible for certain diseases. Kaur shared the amount of time and preparation involved in the project, also stating, “I have been doing research on NLRP12 for almost a year, and I plan to do a
Yes 951 No 296
For the purpose of creating a revenue source to fund much needed student scholarships, campus beautification projects, facility upgrades, student affairs vehicle fleet maintenance, and other student-driven service initiatives, do you support the creation of the 20 for 20 fee?”
Referendum #2 (Gold’N’Bluez)
Yes 657 No 584
Do you support a new self-assessed non-refundable fee of three dollars and zero cents ($3.00) for the Gold’N’Bluez Dance Team?
Referendum #3 (Jaguar Ambassadors) Destiny Smith/DIGEST Aramis Harris, a Senior Agricultural Economics major explains his substainability project at Southern’s Substanability Demonstration held in the Collition Ballroom.
continuation of this project to find out even more information.” Although student projects and presentations were a huge part of the conference, many also attended for the speech of keynote speaker, Dr. Rani Whitfield, aka: Dr. Hip Hop. During his keynote, Dr. Whitfield focused heavily on encouraging students to, “think outside the box” and to avoid letting others decide how much is too much for them to take on. “Firstly, always continue to monitor technology, because technology will help you improve and keep up with other competitors. Secondly, never stop looking for new and innovative
ideas,” lectured Whitfield. “Strive to encourage diversity when building team members, because those of diverse backgrounds help to build stronger ideas, and don’t forget to push your boundaries and get out of your comfort zone as much as possible,” added Whitfield. Overall, the conference was an opportunity to bring together students, faculty and staff, and raise awareness of the proper ways to sustain the Earth’s resources and human health. The conference was also was a jumpstart for Earth Day, on Wednesday, April 22.
Yes 651 No 594
Do you support an increase of the self-assessed non-refundable fee of one dollar and zero cents ($1.00) to three dollars and zero cents ($3.00) for the new Southern University Jaguar Ambassadors?
Referendum #4 (Human Jukebox)
Yes 841 No 406
Do you support an increase of the self-assessed non-refundable fee of five dollars and zero cents ($5.00) to ten dollars and zero cents ($10.00) for the Southern University Human Jukebox?
Referendum #5 (SU Cheerleaders)
Yes 610 No 629
Do you support an increase of the self-assessed non-refundable fee of three dollars and zero cents ($3.00) to six dollars and zero cents (6.00) for the Southern University Cheerleaders?
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Whatʼs Next? SU Tennis Teamʼs Next move
Showing their worth
Younger players build their brand By FELIX CUNNINGHAM III DIGEST SPORTS EDITOR
Courtesy Lathan Multimedia
By FELIX CUNNINGHAM III
DIGEST SPORTS EDITOR & MANAGING EDITOR
As it has been told, drilled, and mandated into Southern University Athletics, they are still bound by the postseason bans that have been placed upon them for more than a year. The team that suffered most from the ban is the tennis team, as they were dropped from the NCAA tennis tournament and instead Alcorn State is going in their place. The NCAA tennis Championships begin May 14-25 at the Hurd Tennis Center in Waco, Texas. Although unfazed with the problematic standards that face the team, the head coach of the team moves forward with a positive outlook. “Even though it’s very unfortunate, there’s nothing we can do about it and hopefully we gather the disclipline and strive harder for next year to once again win another title. These are the cards that we have been dealt,”
said Head Coach Jeff Conyers. The next topic ahead of them is what’s next. They have dominated the SWAC and kept the number one spot strong. It’s no surprise to even ask what’s next. Conyers explains further details on what has been brought unto them. “The girls are going to not going to surprise you but still hold the regiment that we hold steadfast and do what needs to be done,” said Conyers. Laura Syori, in her junior year at Southern University was named 2015 MVP at the SWAC Championships as well as collecting three championship rings in her stay at Southern. Also seeing three championships and coming home with three rings as well is her teammate, Kendall Bunch. Camara Davis, Gabrielle Moore, and Morgan Taylor have been major conerstones on the team and became a major assest to assist the team as seniors. They will now hang up their rackets and continue their core
disclipline and higher education and take it into the nation. These girls have seen the higher etchlatleon and assisted the team in taking Southern to the SWAC Tournament four times against Alcorn and coming out winning in that aspect as well. Moore and fellow seniors Camara Davis and Morgan Taylor experienced the NCAAs when they went to Ole Miss as freshmen and to Texas A&M as sophomores. Though they can’t make another trip to the NCAAs they can leave with four conference titles in four years. “To have four rings since I been at Southern is a very big deal,” said Moore excited of the win at the SWAC tournament. Conyers displayed her pride for the team’s great achievements when he said, “Most of the girls on the team either have a high GPA or enough of a GPA to maintain their teammates. Most of the girls are Biology See NEXT MOVE page 5
When it rain it pours Southern rained out for home games but SWAC continues By FELIX CUNNINGHAM III DIGEST MANAGING EDITOR & SPORTS EDITOR
Southeastern Louisiana in the Spring experiences some harsh weather conditions, as seen with heavy rain advisory last week. Southern was supposedly going to stretch into their next set of games when they were to host an exhibition match against Baton Rouge Community College (BRCC) and UNO on Tuesday April 15, 2015 at LeeHines Field. Beforehand, the third series of their one on one bout against Loyola was cancelled for the same reason. These games were intended to increase the lead by warming up Southern into the Southwestern Athletic Conference Western Division run.
Southern (10-6, 13-18) settle at the third branch in the West beneath Arkansas-Pine Bluff (13-5, 19-4) who claims the number one spot and Texas Southern claiming second tier. Southern hasn’t been first in the Western Division since 2009 and intend to end the four year streak in the dust. Due to the rainy weather conditions they would continue to play their rescheduled two games on Sunday April 19, 2015. In other news during the break stint of Southern on Wednesday, Alabama State (15-3, 27-11) leads in the east and took out Jacksonville State 8-7. Even though Jacksonville State had an explosive fourth inning, Alabama State capitalized in their
fifth and sixth inning to attribute for six points a piece. Jackson State (11-5, 25-14) trailing in the second position in the East demolished LeMoyne-Owen College 13-0, which didn’t even have them settle for a point. With Alabama State being watched on Friday, they combatted against Alcorn State and swept them under the rug 8-4 in their first game of the series. Then on Saturday they once again held Alcorn 14-9 and then came through and blew them out in the bullpen 15-2. In the first inning alone, Marcus Swint and Yamil Pagan started off with hitting two homers. In the last game of the series Alabama only allowed Alcorn to See RAINED OUT page 5
To dominate in Southern athletics like the teams have been winding together gamewinning series to tie up what they can in the amount of time that is necessary. Head coach John Garris focused on moving forward from the past when previously interviewed he said, “We want to clean up hits and focus on precise pitches for wins for the team.” He continued when said, “It’s what we possess that’s going to make us move onto future games. “ The women’s softball team prides themselves on the work ethic that was set by the head coach as well as head coach Ashanti Sheperd and assistant coaches, Megan Maile and Harley Roller. The players lace up their cleats and pride themselves on the the clutch wins they capture for Jaguarland. Southern (11-5, 14-12) won three straight against Arkansas-Pine Bluff last week and is second place of the Western Division in the Southwestern Athletic Conference. Southern then traveled to Prairie View, Texas and took two of the three games. In the first series of the games, Southern won 7-3 against Prairie View A&M, which canceled the show for their opposition early. Unfortunately, Southern fell through and lost 1-4 at the second game of the series. In this series, Prairie View picked up early in their first inning when Alisa Navarro scored a RBI by Ward-Flowers. Southern and Prairie View then hit stalemate innings when both teams were shut out until Prairie View blasted onto the scene with two runs provided by RBI when Navarro singled and brought Destinee Williams and Heidi Woodworth to home plate. This rose the score from two to nil. Southern then again stood empty until their sixth inning when Kiara Suttles homered to right field to accost for the single point of the second game of the series. Suttles has been keen on knocking down hits as a young member of the team hence that’s she a freshman. Suttles onimpotently was named softball player of the week due to hitting a .626 wuth three RBI with two doubles and two homeruns with four runs. This tourney alone showed that she has an abundance of talent. Near the clutch of sixth inning, Jade Hicks after advancing to third scored by an RBI, Williams then cracked a single and scored him in. Southern rebounded in the last game of the series and capped a score of 7-1. The soon cascaded from the first inning ad took redemption from the second game. They scored one run when Jade Greer was hit by a pitch and advanced junior Alicias Barajas to home plate. Prairie View tied with Southern in the third inning when Hicks scored off of William’s single. The fourth and fifth inning for the two showed their impressive defensive skills when both was sequestered to pop flies and quick innings Southern came into their fifth inning guns blazing when Ambrelle Burton scored after an error by third baseman. Afterwards, See WORTH page 4
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Sundayʼs Sweep By KAyLEN SCOTT
DIGEST SPORTS WRITER
The weather in Baton Rouge has been anything but pretty this past week. For SU baseball, that caused them to have two games to be rained out. They were scheduled to play BRCC and UNO. Also, their series set for Saturday afternoon against conference for Arkansas Pine Bluff was rescheduled to a double header Sunday afternoon. 1 p.m. Sunday the Jaguars finally took to the diamond again. After being off of the field for nearly a week, one would think the team would come out cold and stiff. However, the team came out against the Golden Lions firing on all cylinders. In the first game of the double header, it was the pitching that owned the match. Senior ace Santos Saldivar secured the win for the Jags 4-3. UAPB would kick off the scoring in the opener. Their leadoff hitter ripped a single into left field but the ball passed under the glove of Jaguar left fielder Tyler Kirksey. That put the runner in scoring position in the first inning with no one out. That same inning, SU right fielder D.J. Wallace failed to catch a routine fly ball and that led to a two-run triple. UAPB would pick up another run on a sac fly in the next inning. After giving up three runs, Saldivar would control the remainder of the game one. The Golden Lions would send batter after batter up to the plate and Saldivar would send them right back where they came from. He had nine strikeouts after five innings and eleven through six innings. After eight innings he reached fifteen strikeouts, he amassed and would finish with sixteen strikeouts.
The game was tied at 3-3 in the bottom of the ninth. SU had the winning run sitting on third base, itching to be brought home. Second baseman Marcus Tomlin would drive in the game clinching run by shooting a single back up the middle. That run gave the Jags a wellearned win and cemented an excellent outing for Santos Saldivar. “I didn’t even get out of the dugout, I was tearing up, and I didn’t want Marcus to see me,” said Saldivar when the game winning run crossed home plate. In game two of the double header, it was the hitting that would secure a win for the Jags. The Golden Lions would again start the scoring, going up 1-0 in the third inning. However, SU would counter UAPB’s every move. Shortstop Robinson Mateo would tie the game early with a sac fly of his own. UAPB would score two more runs, both coming on RBI doubles. Nonetheless, SU would retaliate. Third baseman Marcus Hodge and outfielders Lance Jones and Kirksey would all bring in RBI’s in the bottom of the fifth inning; giving SU a 4-3 edge. They would continue the hot hitting, as they had 19 hits and fourteen players to cross home plate. Hodge and catcher Jose de la Torre were the power hitters in the second game as they both sent balls over the wall. Hodge’s three run homerun would seal game two of the double header and give the Jags a 14-9 victory; completing the sweep on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. “We just tried to make an adjustment in Game 2. We were taking nice, simple swings and just putting the bat on the ball,” said Hodge. SU has won eight consecutive conference wins and has earned a spot in the SWAC tournament.
John Thigpen/DIGEST (above) Senior Ace Santos Saldivar has been pretty consistent for the Jaguars this season. The Jaguars swept UAPB this weekend making it eight straight conference wins earning them a spot in the SWAC Tournament.
WORTH from page 4 RAINED OUT from page 4 score two runs and Alabama State was leading 5-2 until the explosive fifth and sixth inning when they scored five points an inning (mainly on technicalities) for a combination of 10 points and finished the series leading. Jackson State on Sunday, April 19 at the same position that Southern is in but different divisions took down Alabama A&M in both games in the series. Jackson State first took down Alabama A&M 9-3 and then had a challenge when Jackson State held them 6-5 at the end. In the clean up of the SWAC, Southern continues their journey as they return to the diamond, unfazed to face Arkansas-Pine Bluff. If winning this will pull the Jaguar’s chances to regain a decent spot within the SWAC and maintain a position for championship play. Southern will continue to express excellence on the field to dismiss the stint they had for many years.
sophomore Bailey Rankins scored on an error by the shortstop. Then in the sixth inning, Suttles cranked back and initiated a homer over the fence consecutively in the same game. In the Jaguar’s seventh inning and Greer sent another homer and scored Luke in. Freshman, Syndney Andrews scored on a passed ball. The younger members on the team has been keen on the games coming forward and the assistance will be needed during the rest of the SWAC tourney to gain championships or a spot at the championships. Southern in effort to keep their second place status in the Western Division has to face non-conference Southeastern Louisiana on the Lady Jaguar Field at high noon today to once again show that pride that they never veered from.
NEXT MOVE from page 4
Check out all the latest updated stats and schedules online at www. gojagsports.com
majors and attribute high honors. I’m very proud of their effort in the classroom as well as on the court.” Southern is awaiting the decision on the postseason ban and with Interim-Athletic Director and head coach of the basketball team, Roman Banks, will see through his tenure on what can be done for the teams affected by such measures. Southern will await their answers but above all, the tennis team will move forward and continue the legacy before them.
Arts & Entertainment Page 8 - Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Furious 7 reaches $1 Billion By NATORI SIMS DIGEST A&E WRITER
On April 3, 2015, Furious 7, the movie of a lifetime, was released in theaters all over the United States. Directed by James Wan and written by Chis Morgan, Furious 7 hit the big screens with jaw dropping action scenes, and strong fighting segments that had the crowd excited throughout the entire film. Producers Michael Fotrell, Vin Diesel, and Neal H. Mortiz, most definitely had a tedious job on their hands, with Furious 7 being the seventh installment in the Fast and Furious series, the audience was expecting a great deal out of the film. Then, of course, with all the trailers that were advertised just about everywhere, even more people were simply ecstatic to see the movie. The vibrant film was initially released on April 2, 2015 in Australia, the next day it was then released in the United States. Sadly this movie is the final film that Paul Walker (Brian O’Connor) would appear in. On November 30, 2013, Paul William Walker IV, died in a single-vehicle accident. Walker and Roger Rodas left an event for Walker’s charity, Reach Out Worldwide, for victims of Typhoon Haiyan, a tropical cyclone that devastated portions of Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines. Walker and Roads hit the streets, in Rodas’ red 2005 Porsche Carrera GT with Rodas driving and Walker in the passenger seat. The car crashed into a concrete lamppost and two trees in Valencia Santa Clarita, California, after which it burst into flames. With the tragedy of Walker’s unfortunate death, filming of Furious 7 came to a halt. The film was then, slightly delayed, while the script was re-written and Paul Walker’s brothers, Cody and Caleb, were used as stand-ins to complete the remaining scenes that included Walker. Furious 7 follows Dominic Torreto (Vin Diesel), Brian O’Connor (Paul Walker), and the rest of their crew, who have returned to the United States to live normal lives. That
is, after securing amnesties for their past crimes in Fast and Furious 6. Unfortunately, a crazed special forces assassin, Deckard Shaw (Jason Statham), is seeking to avenge his younger brother, who happens to be in a coma as a result of the crew’s antics in the previous film, and puts Vin Diesel and his crew/family in danger once again. The film was a great success overall, which could not have been accomplished without the help of the well-known cast. The cast consisted of the same members from the series, such as: Paul Walker, Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Ludacris, Jordana Brewster, Lucas Black, and Dwayne Johnson. A few new faces joined the cast as well: Jason Statham, Kurt Russell, Djimon Hounsou, Natalie Emanuel, and Rhonda Rousey. After only 17 days of playing in theatres, Furious 7 surpassed 1 billion dollars in worldwide ticket sales. This was accomplished in record time, where as other major films, such as Avatar, or Avengers, were not able to do so. Within the final moments of the film, Wiz Khalifa’s tribute song to Paul Walker, See You Again ft. Charlie Puth, plays in the background. Dominic drives along a road in his grey Dodge Challenger, when he stops at a light. Brian O’Connor (Cody Walker) pulls up along side of him, in his all white Toyota Supra, calling out to Dominic, “Hey, you thought you could leave without saying goodbye?” Vin Diesel says his final words to Paul Walker, “I used to say I lived my life a quarter mile at a time, and I think that is why we were brothers, because you did too. No matter where you are, whether it’s a quarter mile away or half way across the world, You’ll always be with me and you’ll always be my brother.” Brian O’Connor’s character then drives off into the sun set, a beautiful symbolization of Paul Walker’s too-soon departure.
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Tuesday, April 21, 2015 - Page 9
What to expect during Springfest 2015 BY MELINDA DUPAS DIGEST A&E EDITOR
Most students who have been attending Southern for a while know what to expect at SpringFest, but for the freshmen who will be attending SpringFest for the first time, this one is for you. SpringFest is a time, in my opinion, where all students on campus can come together, have fun and relax before finals. While some may see it as a mild version of turning up, I think that SpringFest allows students to have fun and be free with their peers. Along with the “turning up” that occurs with SpringFest there is also some uplifting moments as well, such as the Student Choice Awards, and the fashion and comedy show that recognizes the various talents of students. Every year, the line up of artists that will be performing at the concert on Saturday,
wows the students and they definitely show up in big numbers. Free crawfish and barbeque, who wants to pass that up? That’s right your SpringFest experience will also include free food. Just don’t forget your student ID! There will also be a Greek show that will most likely cost $10.00, but don’t worry about the price because the performances will be worth it. Another thing to really look forward to at SpringFest is the intestity of the performing artists. Don’t be surprised if an artist asks you to come on stage with them, its SpringFest, and its bound to happen. Artists such as Wale, K. Michelle, and Brandy have all performed at SpringFest and wowed the crowd. You don’t want to miss this kind of fun, sitting at home or in your dorm room. The feelings of these new experiences with your friends is another thing you don’t want to miss out on. The excitement
of the concert, the warm feeling of eating and chilling together, and the nonstop dancing will have you feeling happy even after SpringFest is over. You should look forward to dancing to all your favorite songs, having fun and enjoying yourself before the semester ends. The real deal to Springfest is to just let your hair down and have fun. The festival atmosphere includes sno-balls and other fun things to engage in before the concert, and its all free, with your student ID, which means a day full of not having to spend money that we don’t have as broke college students. There is no other experience like the Southern University SpringFest experience. SpringFest in my opinion is almost like a twin to the Bayou Classic, just without the football game, but the fun that you will have will spring you forth into your finals and you will have had the time of your life doing so.
Campaign Cash
Analyzing the real cost of Campus Campaigns By DESTINY SMITH DIGEST A&E WRITER
As Campaign Week makes its much anticipated departure from the Southern University campus, large decorative posters and push cards begin to flutter aimlessly, and earn their removal. While most students spent the week focused on reaping the usually edible benefits of candidates vying for their support, many don’t consider how much funding goes into running a campaign. To put some of the expenses in perspective, according to the Presidential candidates, the average cost of their campaigns this year totaled 4,350 dollars. Dominique Diamond, a senior Physical Education major and newly elected 2015-2016 Student Government Association President, shared the amount of effort and support that went into his campaign, saying, “I had to raise a lot of money in order to afford to get my name and platform out to the general [student] body.” Diamond added, “I had to raise money by securing sponsorships within the community, which is sometimes hard on candidates, because we are expected to raise enough funds to constantly keep giving to the student body.” Though most of this year’s candidates dropped a pretty penny on their campaigns, Diamond mentioned that money is not the overall determining component as to who will win the election. “Funding or money is not what helps you win a campaign, but instead it is the good communication that you are able to establish with the student body.” Finances are not the only thing the candidates are investing in when running for a position. Time is also a valuable asset that candidates are expected to sacrifice during campaign week. Students are very well aware of candidates taking the time out to stand under tents and speak with them, but often overlook the amount of time that candidates put into their actual campaigns. Before a candidate can be placed on the ballot, they must pass a test See CASH page 10
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the sentinel of an Enlightened student body since 1926
Americans see green light for marijuana legalization By DAVID KNOWLES AND BEN BRODy BLOOMBERG NEWS
America has seen the future, and it is high. Fifty-eight percent of U.S. adults say recreational marijuana will be legal nationwide in the next 20 years, according to a new Bloomberg Politics poll. That includes 13 percent who say it will take 20 years, 26 percent who say it will take 10 years, 17 percent who say it’s just five years away, and 2 percent who say it will happen in the next year. “Our civilization can’t look away from the fact that (marijuana) is not bad and the only reason we don’t have it is because of the archaic mentality,” said Dakota Daniels, a 21-year-old waiter from Pueblo, Colo., who participated in the poll. He said he thinks people will embrace regulation _ as opposed to bans _ as Colorado did in 2012, because it allows states to set safety standards and reap tax revenue. Not everyone is convinced that legal recreational weed is a foregone conclusion. Thirty-two percent said recreational marijuana will never be legal in all 50 states. “There’s so many people that have seen what
drugs and alcohol have done to their families that I don’t think it will ever ever ever be legalized in this country,” said Chris Harmon, 42, a sales rep in New Philadelphia, Ohio. “Once you let that in, there’s a slippery slope to that next exit ramp,” said Harmon, a Republican. Four states _ Colorado, Washington, Oregon, and Alaska _ have legalized the recreational use of pot. Nevada voters will decide whether to legalize the drug in 2016, and voters in Maine, Massachusetts, Arizona, and California are poised to follow suit. California, the nation’s most populous state, could prove a tipping point. “A lot of eyes are on California,” Gavin Newsom, the state’s Democratic lieutenant governor and a supporter of legalization, recently told Bloomberg. “It’s very different than almost any other state because of the scale and the magnitude of the change and what it will represent across the country.” Daniels said he thinks Americans no longer fear of the drug. “This whole ‘reefer madness’ mentality is being proven wrong,” he said.
Marijuana legality poll Do you think the use of marijuana should be made legal?
53% - Yes
44% - No
What’s the main reason you think the use of marijuana should be legal?* 41%
Marijuana has medicinal benefits
36
Marijuana is not as dangerous as other drugs 27
9 People will have it anyway / personal liberty 6 Other 1 Refused
*Total exceeds 100% because of multiple responses.
If marijuana were legal, would it bother you if:
82
No
57
Yes 33
No
on the SGA Constitution, requiring them to devote time to study and adequately prepare for the exam. Candidates also spend a lot of time preparing platforms, networking and contacting sponsors. Lawrence Williams, a former candidate for the SGA President position, and junior Mass Communications major, gave insight to the time he allotted to his campaign. “If I had to estimate how many hours I put into this campaign, I would say 20 hours a day,” said Williams. Williams also explained that he didn’t procrastinate to prepare for Campaign Week. “I have been working on myself to be more prepared for this for over a year, and began getting everything together for Campaign Week two weeks in advance.” According to Williams, the best advice he has for students who wish to run in the future is, “Keep your tensions low, and always maintain.” Overall, Southern’s campus experienced a very competitive campaign season this year for candidates vying for all positions. More goes into campaigns than snacks and catchy slogans. Every candidate and their campaign team put in countless hours and make expensive investments in an effort to convince the student body that they are the best person vying for the position.
Legalization leads to better regulation and tax revenue 12 Enforcement of drug laws is expensive and problematic
62%
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Should federal government enforce federal marijuana laws in states that allow use
4%
No 41 Yes
Don’t know
15
Yes People used A marijuana marijuana in business opened in your public neighborhood
37% Yes
People used marijuana in their own homes
59% No Source: Pew Research Graphic: Tribune News Service
CONGRATULATIONS! To the Office of Student Media’s EGO Magazine for winning 3rd Place for “Best Magazine Spread” at the 2015 College Media Association Conference held in New York, NY .
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Letter to the Editor
Over the span of 12 days, from April 1 to April 12, a string of emails between the “Elections Committee” and myself concluded in one meeting confirming my inability to vie for Miss Southern University. After years of tirelessly working for SUBR as a student leader I felt more than prepared to vie for the position of Miss Southern University as the “Premier Candidate”. On March 31, 2015 every student seeking office as a student official took the Student Government Association Constitution Exam to enable us to run for office. The following day, on April 1, 2015, around 12:30, the three ladies who were applying to run for the position of Miss Southern University were called to the Student Union for a mandatory meeting. Upon arrival we were informed that neither of us passed the test and were issued an unconstitutional retest. We were called back again around 2:30, presumably after the Elections Commissioner and Student Affairs Administration concluded that a candidate didn’t pass the unconstitutional retest, and were made to sign a form stating that the Elections Commissioner as well as the Student Affairs administration had met and decided to give the perspective Miss Southern candidates a retest. After the results were posted at 3:00 p.m., I was crushed to find out that I was the candidate who did not pass the test. This did not sit well with me, especially after passing this test three times before, so I went to view my test scantron. Upon looking at my scantron, I noticed multiple erasure marks, but one in particular stood out from the rest. This erasure was not clearly erased and had smudges around it, and another answer choice had been filled in. The erased answer was indeed correct; making the answer that had been filled in incorrect. This question was about the duties of the Election Committee and all of the answer choices, but one, were obviously incorrect because they were administrators; the correct answer was the only student entity, the Elections Committee. I told Mr. Jonas Vanderbilt my concern and was advised to appeal to the elections committee, and I did just that. My initial appeal spoke directly to the discrepancies with my scantron. Further, I referenced the Constitution and spoke to multiple past SGA officials who all strongly concluded that the retest was unconstitutional and against normal practices of SGA. It was made aware to me that in the 60+ years of SGA, there has never been a retest given. Moreover, normal practice, along with the constitution, states that if there are
Election Oddities By yMANI WRIGHT DIGEST STAFF WRITER
During this past election week there were many things that seemed incredibly odd to me. First of all, how could one go the entire school year without interacting with anyone, and suddenly want support from people? I honestly feel that one of the most important aspects of being an elected official of any organization is to be a “people person”. When I say that, I mean all people. Both candidates for Student Government Association President expressed their concerns on breaking the barrier between students and SGA; however, this cannot be done if the President is in a clique or sticking to the “norm”. With all of the trials, budget cuts and the large incoming freshman class that Southern University is preparing to face, we need a President who is not afraid to step out of his or her comfort zone. This brings me to my next point that people need to be more genuine. Being a person who has been longing to attend Southern University since I was a child, I have been keeping up with many of the events for a long time. It saddens me that candidates will continue to try to persuade people with a platform that they know shouldn’t be promised. If quarter machines could not be implemented, and the knowledge of how fees are allotted did not come to pass in 2013, then what makes 2015 any different? Now I understand wanting to reinforce issues, but maybe they shouldn’t be focused on during your campaign, which ultimately determine whether or not you are elected. The main thing could be to simply understand the chain of command, and that some things are just not in your control as SGA President.
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no qualified candidates to run for a position, the position is to stay open until the Fall semester, where students would reapply for office. In addition to being unconstitutional, this retest was unfair to all students, both past and present, who failed the exam and were not allowed to retest, just as the three perspectives Miss SU candidates were. Throughout my appeal process, this was my major point of issue. The purpose of Student Government Association is to uphold the constitution and promote the general welfare of all students. The Elections Committee along with the SGA advisor argued that because Miss SU is such a large role, they felt that it was not an issue to make an exception for that position, even though it abridged the constitution and went against normal practice. My main contention is, the capacity of a position is not a reason to exclude all students from equal opportunity and fair treatment. After multiple emails between the Elections Committee, which all CCed the Student Affairs administration and the SGA Advisor, Jonas Vanderbilt, I did not receive a formal response until I contacted the the upper administration of Southern University, the system president, SUBR chancellor, and the national alumni president. Following my email to the “higher ups”, I was given a date and time for my first formal hearing. In this hearing, I discussed all of the matters that I had shed light on in email correspondence. Still the Elections Committee, with the presence of SGA Advisor Jonas Vanderbilt, denied my appeal to follow the constitution and provide all of the students with equal opportunity. As a student leader, it behooved me to take a stand on behalf of myself and all of the students who had been unfairly treated throughout this year’s election process. Even though I was stripped of my dream of becoming Miss Southern University, I take comfort in the fact that I stood up for my fellow colleagues and did not shy away from challenging the wrongdoings presented during this campaign season. I encourage all students to know your rights as a student and stand up for what is undoubtedly YOUR University.
A question that stuck out during the debate was the one in reference to the recent breakouts of violence on campus. In response both of the Miss SU candidates decided to play it safe. We are all aware of the elephant in the room. The fight that happened in the Residential area on campus has been displayed on every official Twitter fight account and has gone viral. When asked about it, the candidates for Miss SU downplayed the situation and gave a “politically correct” answer, and I understand why. However, there is no time for playing it safe with the state of our black university. As a black female student of an HBCU, I do not like what happened, and how our school was portrayed. Being that HBCUs were founded for black people to excel, as Miss SU, how could this event make you so unbothered? Especially since you are trying to be the face of the university. With the amount of police brutality and horrible stereotypes for our men, it is not the time to play things safe and “not get involved”. Lastly, I am disappointed with the unsportsmanlike attitudes of some candidates. There were already several restrictions on the campaign teams, and people still found a way to be dirty and shady. We are collegiate scholars, and we are the only HBCU system. Therefore, we should be setting the bar for all HBCUs. How does it look when other people are seeing the childishness of our campaigning? News flash people, pointing out someone else’s flaws does not make you flawless in any way. Instead of focusing on putting someone else’s campaign down, the ultimate goal should have been getting people to fully understand your platform and what you want to bring to the university. Is it going to take the elections committee to limit the amount of Instagram posts that are made a
How do you feel about the budget cuts to Higher Education in Louisiana?
BY: KAYLA FOSTER DIGEST PHOTOGRAPHER
ZANA HARRIS ACCOUNTING SOPHOMORE BATON ROUGE
“I feel that the higher education cuts in Louisiana are despicable. How are universities going to effectively train the future leaders of America if they are experiencing detrimental budget cuts?”
LAWRENCE WILLIAMS MASS COMMUNICATIONS JUNIOR NEW ORLEANS
“Even though they are cutting the budget by 27 million, this is the time that students and the university need to team up with alumni. Due to the lack of communication in the past, alumni hasn’t had a legit chance to heavily show support.”
JAMAyA MAGEE
Yours in blue and gold, Mar’Lesha L. Hollins SU Ambassador Fall 2012 to Present Freshman Class Senator Fall 12 Freshman Class President Spring 13
SPEAKOUT
Sophomore Class VP 13-14 AWS Chief of Staff 13-14 Miss Junior 2014-2015
day for people to realize you shouldn’t waste energy on other people’s campaigns? In addittion to that, there is so much money put into campaigns; what makes your platform so much better than the other persons’ that you feel their sign isn’t important? Sadly, it wasn’t even the candidates participating in this shameful activity, but the campaign teams. People should be wiser with who they pick to represent them, because things like that can really hurt you. Lastly, I was disappointed with the lack of support for two of the referendums, which in my opinion were the most important. First and foremost, the majority of the complaints of our students (no scholarships, the need for campus beautification, the incredibly long bus wait) would be fixed with the 20 for 20 referendum. As SGA President at a school that is about to face budget cuts, how can you promise these incredible things if there are no funds? Also, it has been said in a recent newsletter from the Southern University System President that the SUBR campus is holding the system together with recruitment efforts. This being said, why shouldn’t the ambassador fee referendum be supported? With the recruitment efforts from this year, SUBR has accumulated approximatley 7,000 new applicants. Whatever is being done, I applaud them and hope that these efforts will be continued. These referendums are important because they will have long lasting effects on students at this university. I’m not knocking the other referendums by any means, but I just feel that ALL students deserve the chance to get scholarships, and we NEED more people interested in Southern University, for the sake of our system.
SOCIAL WORK JUNIOR BOGALUSA
“Being that I attend an HBCU, I totally disagree with the budget cuts to higher education. As a prodominently black university, HBCU’s are first colleges they are looking to close. The budget cuts would hurt severely.”
DOMINIQUE DIAMOND PHYSICAL EDUCATION SENIOR KENTWOOD
“I believe that it is unnecessary due to the government’s expectations for each individual to become an upstanding member of society. Higher education is needed to do so. Southern University doesn’t deserve the budget cuts along with the rest of the higher learning instituions.” SUBMISSIONS POLICY The Southern DIGEST welcomes letters from readers commenting on current issues and other matters of general interest to the SU family and public. We set aside this space to publish these letters for others to enjoy. This newspaper is not responsible for individual opinions expressed on its editorial and opinion pages. The Southern DIGEST reserves the right to edit any contributions and or reject them without notification. Authors are encouraged to limit the length of submissions to 300 words. Letters should not include libelous statements. Offensive and personal attacks will not be permitted. The DIGEST will not print “open letters” addressed to someone else. All contributions must be type written, signed and must include the author’s address and phone number. Unsigned letters will not be printed. SouthernUniversity students should include their majors, hometowns and year in school. When referring to specific DIGEST articles, please include the date and title. All materials should be directed to the editor in chief of The Southern DIGEST, P.O. Box 10180, Baton Rouge, La. 70813. Materials may be delivered by hand to the DIGEST office located in Suite 1064 Harris Hall or can be emailed to editor@ southerndigest.com.
EDITORIAL POLICY
Staff editorials represent the opinions of the author and the majority opinion of the Southern DIGEST Student Editorial Board, which is comprised of the student staff of editors and columnists. The Southern DIGEST provides an open forum to educate, inform and enlighten the students, faculty and staff at Southern University, Baton Rouge, La.