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Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Volume 64, Issue 3
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What’s that smell?
Clogged sewage pipes causes flooding in Stewart Hall; Plumbling issues also reported in Hayden Hall. BY LAQUENCIA PARKER DIGEST NEWS EDITOR
Alliyah Moore/DIGEST A Southern University Janitor works tediously to remove the water that flooded Stewart Hall, on Friday, February 6, 2015.
There were only two custodians visible on the scene as about an inch of sewage water covered the first floor of Stewart Hall on Friday, February 6. Newspapers were piled in front of doors in an effort to prevent classrooms and offices from taking on any more water, and the smell of sewage emanated throughout the building. Employees attempted to work through these conditions, struggling to make their way in and out of their offices. Custodians worked through their allotted lunch breaks in order to get the situation under control, which began early Friday morning. Although there were many staff members in the building during the incident, all refrained to comment. According to Stewart Hall staff, the building has had plumbing issues for at least a week, including overflowing toilets and clogged floor drains in restrooms. Plumber and Pipefitter Master Carl Collins confirmed the existence of the piping issues in the hall. “There’s no way to pinpoint these locations,” said Collins. “There was no way it could have been prevented. This is one of those things that happens, and you deal with it then.” said Collins. The most serious of the damage caused by the flood was a ceiling tile that fell apart after taking on water.
The pieces were removed, although the hole remains. Sanitation was the main concern of the maintenance staff, and the floors have been repeatedly mopped and disinfected before students and staff returned to the building for classes on Monday morning. “There was no computer or wall damage or anything of that sort,” Collins confirmed. Although the cause is undetermined, Collins’ believes it is due to paper product blockages in the piping obstructing the water flow. This caused the water to remain stagnant in the pipes until overflowing back through toilets and floor drains. The real cause won’t be determined until Collins runs a camera through the pipe, enabling him to see the inside and the actual problem. The same issue occurred in Hayden Hall on Monday morning, but with fewer students in that hall than in Stewart, the problems remained contained inside the restrooms. Collins believes these problems can be attributed to the age of some of the buildings on Southern’s campus, and how long ago the piping systems were installed. The severity of the situation in Stewart could possibly be attributed to the influx of students in Stewart since the closing of DeBose Hall, but Collins doesn’t feel that way. Plumbers are currently working on the pipes to remedy the situations.
Bridge repairs still an issue BY LAQUENCIA PARKER DIGEST NEWS EDITOR
Continuing foundation shifts have caused the sidewalk on Roosevelt Steptoe Boulevard to collapse, leaving a gaping hole in its wake. Barriers have been placed around the hole and the vehicle traffic entrances to the street as well, permitting only pedestrian traffic on one side of the street. Students and staff alike have been inconvenienced, forced to drive through the entire campus to exit, or even make
it to the only functioning on campus cafeteria. Courtney Johnson, a junior Apparel Merchandising and Textiles Major feels as though the lack of work being done on this situation is counterproductive with the university’s ongoing campus beautification initiative. “It looks bad on our campus,” said Johnson. “If we’re going to fix problems
Alliyah Moore/DIGEST The collapsed sidewalk located on Roosevelt Steptoe Blvd., has been blocked off for see BRIDGE REPAIR page 2 longer than expected as a result of foundation shifts.
THE OFFICIAL STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF SOUTHERN UNIVERSIT Y AND A&M COLLEGE, BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA
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SOUTHERN DIGEST
Page 2 - Tuesday, February 10, 2015
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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 Cuninngham III
Marchandrea Seals Melinda Dupas Jaleyah Davis Sage Edgerson Osita Ajoko
ISSUE 3 COPY EDITOR Laquencia Parker NEWS EDITOR Laquencia Parker CO-LAYOUT EDITORS Derylle Spears II Marcus Tomlin A&E EDITOR Lavarius Cotton SPORTS EDITOR Felix Cunnigham III PHOTO EDITOR Alliyah Moore ONLINE EDITOR Kayla Foster
Jacaria Bickham
Destiny Smith Sharita Sims Natori Sims Kaylen Scott Jaylen Scott
DIGEST PHOTOGRAPHERS Astavven Cotton Jade Foy Joshua Mcknight Jasmine Reed Jada Robinson Tyra Brownlee Imani Lee
THE
THE WEEK AHEAD: 4-DAY WEATHER OUTLOOK TUES. FEBRUARY 10
SUNNY HI - 65° / LO - 38° 0% CHANCE OF RAIN
Campus Briefs
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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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WEDS. FEBRUARY 11
THURS. FEBRUARY 12
FRI. FEBRUARY 13
SUNNY
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HI - 69°/ LO - 44° 0% CHANCE OF RAIN
HI - 62° / LO - 29° 10% CHANCE OF RAIN
HI - 56° / LO - 35° 0% CHANCE OF RAIN
SU NURSING
VISUAL ARTS GALLERY
The SU Nursing School will be accepting online applications until March 1.
V-CHAT
Miss Southern and C.O.P.S. will be selling Valentines Day Grams (Feb. 10-Feb. 13) in the student union from 12 p.m. until 2 p.m. The event will raise funds for the American Heart Association.
The SU Visual Arts Gallery will be open until March 5. Gallery hours are Monday through thursday 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Contact randell_henry@ subr.edu for more information. The Southern University Sytem will host an online chat session with current President Ronald Mason on Feb. 10 at 6 p.m. Must register to tune in. GIVING BACK
Give back to the SU Community through the H&R Block Non Profit referral Program for every new client that has their taxes completed by HRB & mentions the SU Code, H&R Block will donate $20 to SU. Any new client that has their tax refund prepared by H&R Block (any location all over the US) and provides the SU Non Profit ID Referral code of: 4001 00010 79676 H&R Block will donate $20 of H&R Block funds to SU. MARDI GRAS SOCIAL
University Apartments will host a Mardi Gras Social on Feb. 12 at Dunn Hall from 9 p.m. until 11 p.m. GUEST SPEAKER
The Rev. Jeremiah Wright, the former pastor of President Barack Obama, will speak at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 19, in the Smith-Brown Memorial Union on Southern University’s campus. The event is free and open to the public. PINNING CEREMONY
PAGE 2 ANNOUNCEMENTS & PAID CLASSIFIEDS INFO
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body since 1926
The Honors College will have its Pinning Ceremony Feb. 20 at 6 p.m. in the Cotillion Ballroom. Please RSVP by Feb. 13. QUIZ BOWL
The 21st Annual Black History Quiz Bowl will be held on Feb. 25 at 3 p.m. in the SU Agricultural Center. Participants must register by Feb. 18. Competition is open to all students. For more information contact (225)284-0063.
CANDY GRAM
SU BOARD MEETING
The SU Board of Supervisors Meeting will be on Feb. 20 on the second floor of the J.S Clark Administrative building. OPEN FORUM DISCUSSION
“Tanning of America: Black Influence in the USA” will be held in the Seymour Gynasium at 6p.m. Guest speakers will be David Banner, Hip Hop Doc, and more. SAVIOURS’ DAY 2015
Minister Farrakhan will be the keynote speaker on Feb. 22. at 1p.m. in the SU Cotillion Ballroom. Free Admission. SU LIVESTOCK
The Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center will hold its 70th Annual Livestock Show for youth participants on February 28 through March 2 at the Maurice Edmond Livestock Arena, 14600 Scenic Hwy. For more information contact Christie Monroe at christie_monroe@ suagcenter.com or 225-7714350. 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 225-771-2020. 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.
Send your campus briefs each week by Friday before Tuesday’s Issue. Send briefs to digest@subr.edu
Submit your campus brief today. What would you like to see in the DIGEST? Got news? Submit your breaking news to: digest@subr.edu. Voice your opinion today! Submit your letter to to the editor: digest@subr.edu.
Quick Facts: Black History Month began as “Negro History Week,” which was created in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson, a noted African American historian, scholar, educator, and publisher. It became a month-long celebration in 1976. The month of February was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. On February 12, 2009, the NAACP marked its 100th anniversary. Spurred by growing racial violence in the early twentieth century, and particularly by race riots in Springfield Illinois in 1908, a group of African American leaders joined together to form a new permanent civil rights organization, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). February 12, 1909 was chosen because it was the centennial anniversary of the birth of Abraham Lincoln. Jack Johnson became the first African-American man to hold the World Heavyweight Champion boxing title in 1908. He held on to the belt until 1915. John Mercer Langston was the first black man to become a lawyer in Ohio when he passed the Bar in 1854. When he was elected to the post of Town Clerk for Brownhelm, Ohio in 1855 Langston became one of the first African Americans ever elected to public office in America. John Mercer Langston was also the great-uncle of Langston Hughes, famed poet of the Harlem Renaissance. Thurgood Marshall was the first African American ever appointed to the United States Supreme Court. He was appointed by President Lyndon B. Johnson, and served on the Supreme Court from 1967 to 1991. George Washington Carver developed 300 derivative products from peanuts among them cheese, milk, coffee, flour, ink, dyes, plastics, wood stains, soap, linoleum, medicinal oils and cosmetics. Hiram Rhodes Revels was the first African American ever elected to the United States Senate. He represented the state of Mississippi from February 1870 to March 1871. Shirley Chisholm was the first African American woman elected to the House of Representatives. She was elected in 1968 and represented the state of New York. She broke ground again four years later in 1972 when she was the first major party African-American candidate and the first female candidate for president of the United States. The black population of the United States in 1870 was 4.8 million; in 2007, the number of black residents of the United States, including those of more than one race, was 40.7 million. In 1940, Hattie McDaniel was the first African-American performer to win an Academy Award (the film industry`s highest honor) for her portrayal of a loyal slave governess in Gone With the Wind. In 1992, Dr. Mae Jemison became the first African American woman to go into space aboard the space shuttle Endeavor. During her 8-day mission she worked with U.S. and Japanese researchers, and was a coinvestigator on a bone cell experiment. Source: blackhistory.com
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The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body since 1926
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SOUTHERN DIGEST
Tuesday, February 10, 2015 - Page 3
Cade begins tech updates BY MARCHANDREA SEALS DIGEST NEWS WRITER
The John B. Cade library has made it their mission to improve student research, decrease workloads, and provide more access with advanced technology. To assist with their cause, the library has purchased 20 iPads, 20 iPad minis, Dell laptops and 40 Kindle tablets. During the summer semester, there will be 20 Dell Latitude 3300 laptops and 20 Dell OptiPlex 920 desktops that will be available for checkout. Students are able to receive full access to the devices for up to two months, and can download up to 100,000 eBooks from the library website. Once the student returns the device, all content on that device will be deleted. If the student fails to return the device, there will be a late fee of 25 dollars each day, until the gadget is returned. Students must have their student ID available in order to check out technology.
“For students who do not have any devices, this can give those a better chance to do their work outside the library,” said Thomas. “Some do not have time to their work during the library hours.” Junior biology major Lauren Jones from Olathe, KS finds this to be a big step for Southern. “For SU students to have access to this technology is one thing, but having them check them out is another,” said Jones. “I hope the students take care good care of these devices.” So far, there have been two issues involving the Kindle devices. “The students kept the Kindle out longer than they should have,” commented Knight. “We had to call those students to bring them back and apply a late fee to their account,” Knight added. The Cade library hopes in the near future to expand mobile devices through out the entire library and add more study group rooms. The new study group rooms will be
Alliyah Moore/DIGEST A portion of the ceiling in Stewart Hall collapsed due to a clogged pipe on Friday February 6, 2015.
Alliyah Moore/DIGEST John B. Cade Library is now providing students with updated technology to assist with their overall learning experience. Assistant University Librarian for Technology and Informational Services, Dawn Knight said updating the library technology would be very beneficial for students. “With having the latest technology here, it can help our students in the real world,” said Knight. “Also, give them the experience with new technology.” Junior nursing major Tevin Thomas from Houma, believes it is good that Southern has devices readily available for students.
located on the second and third floor and be equipped with high tech technology so the students do not have to leave the room and be more collaborative. Soon there will also be an SU Digital Repository Collective Research tool added to the library that allows faculty members, graduates and undergraduates to see previous research or presentations from the past.
BRIDGE REPAIR from page 1 on our campus, we should fix that too.” Johnson finished. The road was partially barricaded beginning the spring semester of 2014, preventing vehicles from exiting the campus from Roosevelt Steptoe Blvd. However, as the foundation shifts continued, the entire bridge was barricaded, discontinuing all vehicular traffic. The foundation shifts are caused by corroded pipes under the bridge that aren’t containing water. The water then seeps into the foundation, weakening and causing loose debris. The majority of student concern goes toward why the
situation wasn’t handled when it was first brought to attention. “It could have been prevented.” said Jordan Dukes, a junior Electrical Engineering major. “That situation should have been prevented,” agreed Tyler Mickens, a sophomore Mass Communications major. “These are people’s lives. None of this would have to be happening if it was fixed sooner.” finished Mickens. Director of Planning and Facilities Endas Vincent could not be reached for comment regarding this situation.
Jaguar Sports southerndigest.com
Page 4 - Tuesday, February 10, 2015
THE
SOUTHERN DIGEST
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body since 1926
Looking Ahead; No Turning Back
Lady Jaguars cruise past Grambling State; SWAC winning streak extends to eight BY JAYLEN SCOTT
DIGEST SPORTS WRITER
Southern University women’s basketball team peered their eyes at the goal and did not turn their necks to acknowledge failure as they dismantled the Grambling State Tigers in Saturday’s showdown at F.G. Clark Activity Center 80-52. Their eyes were completely on the prize and that prize is victory. The Lady Jags came out shooting white hot and defensively smothered the Tigers. The Lady Jags opened with a 14 point lead in the first 12 minutes and never looked back after that.What senior power forward, Jasmine Jefferson, portrayed last week came to pure fruition. The Lady Jags made their presence known in the paint, outscoring Grambling 36-16, but they were also efficient with their jump shots as well. Head Coach Sandy Pugh said, “We just needed to move the ball and we executed. There were times when the ball didn’t even touch the floor and that’s beautiful to see as a coach.” Pugh really wanted to set down and notice the usual “hot in the paint” notion as she did not want to team to relinquish a three point shot and shoot to boot bounded defensive strategy to not allow Grambling to score high and sent them to a detrimental point range near halftime.
Southern was led by Britney Washington, who scored a game-high 21 points and snagged 10 rebounds and whipped around a doubledouble. Senior guard, Kendra Coleman, also tallied in 19 points, shooting 53 percent from the field. Jasmine Jefferson had chipped in with a double-double as she had 13 points and a game-high 11 rebounds. The Jags had 5428 rebounding margin over the Tigers. Yosha Watson led Grambling with 17 points and 11 rebounds off bench. Southern went on 16-0 run late in the first half; a run in which they held Grambling scoreless for seven minutes. The Jaguars took a 15 point lead into halftime and came back out smoking from the field. The Jaguars led by as much as 29 points in the second half. The Lady Jags look to keep this impressive play up and continue their win streak as they have won eight games in a row. The Lady Jags are 8-2 in SWAC play and 10-10 overall. They are second in SWAC standings but have their eyes set on first place. Their eyes are set becasue Texas Southern is still atop the SWAC going 9-1 overall and 12-9 overall. Also Texas Southern are on a 7 game-win streak and took a win from Southern early in the season. Southern hopes to continue this run of dominance Monday as they take the Jackson State Tigers in the F.G. Clark Activity Center at 5:30 p.m.
Astavven Cotton/DIGEST
Britney Washington pulls up a quick jumper over a group of defenders. Washington scored a game high 21 points against Grambling State on Saturday, Febuary 7 in F.G. Clark Activity Center.
Odums Had a Dream; National Signing Day BY FELIX CUNNINGHAM III
DIGEST MANAGING EDITOR & SPORTS EDITOR
Twenty seven signees were inducted into the 2015 freshman class on the Southern University football team on National Signing Day, Wednesday, February 5. Of those signees, 14 are from the native state of Louisiana, five are from Texas, three are from Georgia, and single players trickled from Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and Wisconsin and about half of the players are added to the defensive ploy that the team thrives on. In the Royal Cotillion Ballroom located inside the Smith-Brown Memorial Union, alumni federations, parents, and older fans gathered to socialize, eat, and enjoy the festivities sponsored on their behalf. With their deadened energy, head coach Dawson Odums was not impressed on every table being filled but not enough noise to fill the room. Even with door prizes, the crowd still remained unfazed. “If I wanted this much energy, I would’ve stayed home with my two daughters,” said Odums, “This day is supposed to be a day of celebration.” Odums came to recognize the soon to be revitalized crowd and said, “We are selling the players’ family a dream and I don’t believe in
hiding anything because even the blind can see and if they can’t see, they definitely can hear.” The crowd was starting to be surprised at the beginning of the martyr speech that Odums soon to occur. “We got to change if we want to stay on top and I’m going to say it and hate me if you will but Southern University football is the best thing going because it brings money,” said Odums, “If we bring in money, you have to put money back into it.” Odums has ushered in a winning program when becoming coach at Southern University and just last season he conquered a 9-2 win to stay atop the Southwestern Athletic Conference Western Division and move onto the SWAC Championship located in Houston, Texas. In lue of losing the SWAC Championship to Alcorn State, Southern still brought a winning program back to the bluff of the Mississippi and becoming the SWAC West Division Champions for the second season in a row. Odums directly explains that the signees are building up hype and expectation to the fans as well as the people in attendance. “Don’t put your expectation into the new signees because they’ve never been college students,” said Odums and continued with, “Put your expectations into the returning players and
Derylle Spears II/DIGEST
The New Iberia Alumni Federation for Southern University issued 1,000 dollars to the Southern University football team at the Signing Day Celebration in the Royal Cotillion Ballroom .
expect them to compete and win and be realistic with their expectations.” But this wasn’t his true goal of the night, the goal he was setting was the vision he had for Southern University, the dream that he set since he started his regime in coaching. “I see a parking garage, another field house beside ours, a field that we can actually practice on, and the tennis courts moved out of the way,”
said Odums triumphantly, “Because I believe what I’m fighting for. Because Martin Luther King didn’t turn back on the bridge and I’m not turning my back now.” He urged alumni and others to give back into the football program and his answers were given as the New Iberia Alumni Federation gave more than $1,000 dollars to the program and no one could match that.
Jaguar Sports southerndigest.com
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The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body since 1926
SOUTHERN DIGEST
Tuesday, Februaury 10, 2015 - Page 5
Special Night Tough Win BY KAYLEN SCOTT
DIGEST SPORTS WRITER
The F.G. Clark Activity Center was nearly packed this past Saturday, as they honored the 1977-78 men’s basketball team at halftime. The Jags were set to take on arch rival Grambling State University. The team was coming off a successful road trip, winning two of its three games. However, the game started off slow for the home team. They would eventually regroup and surpass GSU 58-50. The first half started out sluggish for the Jaguars. They were held in check due to the loss of starting senior big man, Frank Snow; who will be out for three weeks with a broken hand. So, the team had to rebuild its chemistry within the starting lineup as it welcomed senior forward, Keith Davis. The team as a whole endured an abysmal 29 percent field goal percentage, going 15of-52. Grambling took advantage of the poor shooting by capitalizing on shots of their own, ultimately giving them a 28-26 lead at the half. During the half, Southern acknowledged the men’s Basketball team from the 1977-78 season for their record setting year. That team was run under the leadership of head coach Carl Stewart. The Jags finished the season with a 26-2 overall record and an 11-1 record in SWAC play. They averaged 94.7 points per game and had an average margin of victory of 13.5 points. Frankie Sanders, from Dayton Ohio, led the team in scoring and rebounding, while simultaneously averaging a double-double with 27.4 points and 10.5 rebounds. The 77-78 team produced seven NBA draft picks, the aforementioned Sanders along with former Southern coach Tommy Green and Gregory “Pop” Green; and 10 players who played professionally. They also made an appearance in the NCAA Division II playoffs and hold the rights to scoring a season high 148 points that year. While Southern honored the
1977-78 team at halftime, head coach Roman Banks lit a fire under his team during the intermission. GSU’s Mark Gray scored his team’s first five points to give them a 33-28 edge starting the second half. However, the Jags held the Tigers to one field goal for the next eight minutes. Then, Southern and Davis went to work. Davis made one of two free throws and followed that up with a tip-in, a dunk on a pretty pass from sophomore guard Trelun Banks, and a layup with an assist from junior guard Christopher Hyder. Davis finished with a game high 16 points and 8 rebounds. After a tip-in by Grambling’s Lonnie McElwain ended the run, Southern started another run. Junior guard Adrian Rodgers ignited the run with a three pointer from deep, Banks added to the mix with a layup of his own, senior forward Joell Hopkins manufactured a point from the free throw line, and senior guard Tre Lynch forced a turnover with a steal and capitalized on it with a layup in transition. The team went on 17-7 run coming out of halftime, giving them a 43-35 edge. In the ensuing moments, Lynch hit a big three and Hyder converted on a layup as the lead grew. However, the Tigers would come roaring back, as they eventually cut the lead to four, 52-48. Banks converted on a three-point play and Southern converted on its free throws to put the tigers down, 58-50. The Jags overcame Grambling, even though they endured a poor shooting night. “It’s safe to say we won a game tonight when we weren’t cooking on all cylinders, but the guys we rely on made individual plays when we needed them,” said head coach Roman Banks. Banks reached a milestone as well, picking up his 50th win in SWAC play. Southern will be set to take on Jackson State (7-16) Monday night in the F.G. Clark Activity Center at 8:00 p.m., the game will be televised via Cox Sports.
Joshua Mcknight/DIGEST Southern University’s Jarrad Sam tips the ball in during the fourth quarter of their game versus Grambling State. on Saturday February 7 in F.G. Clark Activity Center.
SU Men’s Basketball honors 1977-78 team COURTESY
SU MEDIA RELATIONS
Joshua Mcknight/DIGEST
Southern University salutes the 1977-78 SWAC Champion Men’s basketball team during halftime of the Southern University vs. Grambling Men’s basketball game on February 7 in F.G. Clark Activity Center.
Funk, soul, and psychedelics built the era called the 70s, it was determined who would become the top cat of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). History, regime, technical strategies, and all were introduced in the era of wins for the Southern University basketball team. On rivalry weekend against Grambling State University, legends brought together was formed to be honored on the court that they once adored and nostalgically miss. Southern University saluted the 1977-78 SWAC Champion men’s basketball team during halftime of the SU-Grambling men’s
game Saturday, Feb. 7 at the F.G. Clark Center. Led by head coach Carl Stewart, the 77-78 team finished 26-2 overall and posted an 11-1 record in the SWAC. The Jaguars averaged 94.7 points per game and won its games during the season by a margin of 13.5 points per game. Frankie Sanders of Dayton, Ohio finished as the teams top scorer and rebounder with his set aerodynamic ways, averaging a double - double of 27.4 points and 10.5 rebounds. Southern’s 77-78 men’s basketball team also featured seven players including Sanders, former SU head coach and longtime Ben Jobe who initiated the future Ben Jobe Award and assistant
coach Tommy Green and Gregory “Pop” Green - who were drafted into the NBA and 10 players who went on to play professionally. The 77-78 Jaguars made it to the top of heights during the legendary era, an appearance in the NCAA Division II playoff in Troy, Alabama and holds the distinction of scoring a season high 149 points in a 48-point win over Dillard University. The festivities are apart of Southern basketball’s alumni weekend, which includes an alumni game featuring former Jaguars men’s and women’s basketball players on Friday night. Southern hosts Grambling in a Southwestern Athletic Conference hoops doubleheader, which
begins with women’s basketball action at 3 p.m. Cox Sports Television broadcasted the in-state rivalry game between Southern and Grambling, the true rivalry of such schools. Tickets were $15 for reserved seats and $10 for general admission seating. Fans are encouraged to contact the SU Ticket office at 225-771-3171 for more details for future reference.
Stay updated on all things SU Athletics, follow them on gojagsports.com
Photos of the Week Page 6 - Tuesday, February 10, 2015
The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926
The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926
Arts & Entertainment
Tuesday, February 10, 2015 - Page 7
Irvin Jones Collection Arrives at Southern University
meaning but is wonderfully anchored in the daily life and celebratory rituals and recently even the fauna of the artist’s 7th A reception marking the opening Ward New Orleans neighborhood. Birch of the Irvin Jones Collection of African spent 20 years making a reputation in New American Art was held on Wednesday, York City before moving back to New February 4, in the Southern University Orleans and being honored by the New Visual Arts Gallery in Frank Hayden Orleans Museum of Art with a community Hall. Jones is a 1967 Lab School graduate parade, welcoming Birch back as a who received a degree in Psychology celebrated artist. In 2014, he was chosen from Howard University and completed as a United States Artists Fellows winner graduate studies in Industrial Psychology with an unrestricted $50,000 award as at the University of Detroit. one of America’s most accomplished and This major exhibition, curated by innovative artist. Associate Professor Randell Henry, “I was truly intrigued by Willie Birch,” features significant names in African said Frealise Errington, a 22-year-old American art from all over the world. The junior nursing major from New Orleans, works featured includes pieces by Tamara Louisiana. “He brings back memories of Madden, Charlie Palmer, Emerson Bell, the things I grew up around and it makes Malaika Favorite and Charles Criner. me happy,” concluded Errington. Jones began collecting art after Other great artists represented in taking a class in art appreciation while the exhibition are: Ellis Wilson, Henry O. a student at Howard University. Jones Tanner, Tames Denmark, Sam Gilham, has amassed more than 400 works, all of John Biggers, Lois Mailou Jones, which he’s purchased. Kayla Foster/DIGEST Elizabeth Catlett, Robert Colescott, Artis “I simply collect African American Irving Jones, a Baton Rouge native African American art collector speaks to students about where to begin Lane, Mo Bookner, Richard Mayhew, art, because I’m an African American man and the benefits of collecting art during the opening reception of the Irvin Jones art exhibiton in Frank Hayden Herbert Gentry, and Bereny Andrews. Hall on Wednesday, February 4. who enjoys the works of other African The exhibition continues through March Americans,” said Jones. “Each art piece 5. Gallery hours are Monday 10 a.m. to 4 A native of New Orleans, Birch creates has addressed New Orleans musical heritage has a story behind it, which makes each piece politically incisive and emotionally sensitive and also the multi-layered life experiences of p.m. and by appointment on Friday. special in its on way,” finished Jones. work that addresses issues related to African- African-American males. Birch’s work has Another exhibition artist is Willie Birch. American culture and survival. The artist powerful political, sociological and spiritual BY LAVARIUS COTTON DIGEST A&E EDITOR
Organizational Spotlight : LGBT Alliance
MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE AND with CLINIC Bring your bike or use one of ours to ride the exciting Comite Park River Trails. Preregistration is required.
Comite River Park Feb. 21 from 9-11 a.m. Ages: 8 and older $10 per person
For more information or to register, call 225-272-9200, ext. 435 or email outdooradventure@brec.org.
Members of the LGBT, better known as Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Alliance meets to discuss issue that college student encounter. BY BRITTANY BROWN DIGEST A&E WRITER
Southern University’s Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Alliance (LGBTQ) hosted their first program of the 2015 Spring semester in Boley Hall on Monday, February 2. LBTGQ is one of the many organizations housed under the ONESU. The event outlined problems that the gay community face on a day-to-day basis. Issues discussed included their sexual orientation, labeling, and experiencing judgment from others. Many members feel that those of different sexual orientations do not understand them. During the program several students got the chance to speak out about their situations, where they were discriminated against due to their sexual orientation and how they felt about it.
Vice President Larry Medley started the organization last spring with the intent to educate SU students about gay men and women. Medley explained that he wanted to make the campus a place where students didn’t feel judged due to his or her sexuality. “I wanted to raise awareness and breakthrough this homophobia,” said Medley. Students that attended felt that the program was very informative and educational. When asked if they would bring a friend most of the students replied with a yes. Medley believes that the program will open a window to make gay individuals feel comfortable with themselves. “I feel like the program is very helpful and it will encourage more people to come out,” said Xavier Robinson.
Career Services
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body since 1926
Page 8 - Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Career Day Tips: How To Prepare:
Review the list of companies in attendance and determine the companies you want to target.
Prepare your elevator speech and be able to state your interests, skills, strengths, etc. in under three minutes.
What To Bring:
Multiple Resumes: You will need a copy
Dress in business attire: A suit is
organization with whom you plan to
is a shirt and tie for men and a blouse and
of your resume for every company or speak.
appropriate for both men and women, as skirt/dress slacks for women.
Portfolio/Briefcase: To store your
Pick up the DRESSING FOR THE
literature and Business cards you will
Services Office.
resumes, pad, and pen as well as the accumulate.
What To Wear
Professional Dress: If you are going to
the career fair from class, take the time to change to professional attire. Remember, you are selling yourself and want to put your best foot forward.
INTERVIEW tip sheet in the Career
What To Do When You Arrive: Check your coat and any extra bags you may have. Survey the layout of the room and locate your target companies.
Quickly walk around and take note of how the company reps are engaging with the students. Know what type of student the company is looking for and pay questions being asked. Pick up additional literature for your target companies and review it briefly while waiting to speak to the representatives. What To Do When It’s Your Turn: Smile, shake hands and introduce yourself. Ask the company representative about his/her company to get more information. Answer questions enthusiastically making eye contact regularly. Listen carefully, answer clearly and offer your resume if you are interested in the company. Ask for a business card and thank the company representative for his/ her time. After Your Career Fair Interview: Capture quick notes about your conversation. Put the card and literature away and head to your next company. Follow up on company instructions from Career Fair. After the Fair: Send thank you letters to the company or organizations you would like to pursue. Watch for posting on JOBS4JAGS! and apply to the posting on time. Attend company sponsored events on campus and visit the office of Career Services.
Other Tips:
(1). Dress for Success (2). Bring (20) Copies of your Resume (3). Registration begins at 10:00am on February 25th
Career Services southerndigest.com
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SOUTHERN DIGEST
Tuesday,Febraury 10, 2015 - Page 9
Arts & Entertainment southerndigest.com
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SOUTHERN DIGEST
Page 10 - Tuesday, February 10, 2015
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body since 1926
Supreme Sunday Kicks-Off
Tyra Brownlee/ DIGEST A crowd gathers for Supreme Sunday in the Union Ballroom. The event was sponsored by My Kicks The Passion. BY DESTINY SMITH DIGEST STAFF WRITER
This Sunday the first “sneaker swap” in Baton Rouge was held in Southern University’s Royal Cotillion Ballroom. Supreme Sunday was presented by My Kicks The Passion and brought out people from all over the city. “Supreme Sunday has been in the work for three years and a lot of people are attracted to it, because sneaker culture is always becoming increasingly popular.” said Joe Hines, a sneaker enthusiast from Baton Rouge. Though sneaker buying, selling, or trading was the main event, there were plenty of other attractions. There were dance performances from local dance companies such as Team WDC, barbers offering haircuts, clothing vendors, giveaways and even a booth where you could get your shoes professionally cleaned or customized. The “sneaker swap” attracted more than the typical “sneaker head”. Fantaisia Cormier, a senior animal science major, from Lafayette, Louisiana participated as well. “I came to Supreme Sunday looking for a pair of Fresh Princes, but since my size is very general it’s hard for me find a shoe.” said Cormier. Cormier also spoke a little on sneaker culture saying,
“It’s sometimes hard to be a female sneaker lover, because guys don’t always believe that girls can find sneakers just as amusing as guys.” Ontario Lejune, a freshmen Biology major, from Baton Rouge said, “I found out about Supreme Sunday through social media and came to search for some all-white 11’s.” Lejune also mentioned that he loves sneakers, “because sneakers are the first thing people look at. Sneakers can help show status, but it’s funny, because some of the price points are so high that people wouldn’t risk doing normal things in their shoes like playing sports or going to parties.” The price points at Supreme Sunday were wide and varying, ranging from as low as 20.00 dollars to as high as 1,800.00 dollards. Blue the Barber, owner of Upper Cutz, from Seaside, California was in possession of those 1,800 dollars sneakers known as the Sample Oregon Pucks. Blue said, “The Sample Oregon Pucks can sell on the market for up to 6,000 dollard, because only 100 pairs are on the globe due to them never being officially released.” The reason he chooses to sell shoes below their price point is because when he was young he, “couldn’t always afford the most expensive pairs” so now he uses sneakers to motivate kids to do better. Blue, also shared
knowledge about how to test the authenticity of shoes. Some of the key tips include, checking for close knit stitching or searching underneath the sole for a release date or serial number. “Supreme Sunday is not just an event for sneaker enthusiast and we all wanted this event to be more about bringing the community together,” said Tony McCray, creator of Supreme Sunday. One of the ways McCray and his team tried to make this event more accessible is by not charging an admission price. “Shoes are a powerful motivation tool for young children, because they can make people feel empowered and can even be used for leverage for good performance in school,” said McCray. When asked what motivated McCray to want to plan an event like this he said, “I wanted to play a part in cleaning up the image that sneakers have in the media. On the news there are always reports on how many lives were lost at a sneaker release, but they neglect to focus on how things are improving by writing stories on things like sneaker raffles.” Overall Baton Rouge’s first Supreme Sunday was a success and brought sneaker enthusiasts, vendors, barbers, dancers, and those who were just curious to see out for five hours of fun.
Grammys 2015 was a low-wattage affair BY MIKAEL WOOD LOS ANGELES TIMES
LOS ANGELES _ Whatever happened to the splashy awards-show production number? Once upon a time _ say two or three years ago _ highconcept spectacle was the default mode for a live television event like the Grammy Awards. You get the chance to play that stage, on what we’re constantly reminded is “music’s biggest night,” you elevate your presentation (and therefore wow an audience of tens of millions into submission). Yet apart from a few exceptions, the 57th Grammys, broadcast on CBS Sunday night from Staples Center, felt defined by rawer, less elaborately conceived moments. The event wasn’t without bombast, of course. Though AC/DC opened the 3{-hour show on a stage cleared of virtually all decoration, the veteran hard-rock band was still brandishing super-sized guitar riffs and drum beats made to bludgeon. And let’s not forget the vaguely satanic phantasmagoria Madonna devised for the performance of her new single, “Living for Love.” But most of the nearly two dozen acts appeared to be after something different from the shock and awe of yore. At a time of widespread
turmoil _ war, racial strife, domestic violence _ they wanted to connect, to offer something of themselves to viewers. Some were more successful than others. One of pop’s most expressive (and polarizing) figures, Kanye West was transfixing in “Only One,” circling around a single column of light as he delivered lyrics he’s said he was channeling from his late mother. Yet if the song was revealing a vulnerability West so often hides beneath a gruff exterior, he wasn’t doing away with that facade entirely. Later he joined Rihanna and Paul McCartney for a bare-bones version of “FourFiveSeconds,” their new single about going wild on someone foolish enough to provoke them. Paired for what the Recording Academy proudly refers to as a “Grammy moment,” Annie Lennox and the young Irish singer Hozier were equally convincing in a stark, soulful mash-up of his “Take Me to Church” and “I Put a Spell on You,” which Lennox sang with a growl in her voice and a possessed look in her eyes. Eric Church put across a similar seriousness of purpose in “Give Me Back My Hometown.” The country song addresses an ex-girlfriend, but here
he reached for something deeper, playing before a video screen flashing gritty protest images. Songs about romance weren’t off-limits. Sam Smith teamed with Mary J. Blige for a stately version of his “Stay with Me,” which won song and record of the year. Beck, who claimed the album of the year prize for “Morning Phase,” summoned an effective tenderness in “Heart Is a Drum,” with an extra helping of breathy sensitiveguy vocals from Chris Martin of Coldplay. And Usher created one of the night’s simplest _ and loveliest _ moments in his performance, accompanied only by a harpist, of Stevie Wonder’s metaphysical “If It’s Magic.” Slow-and-low is a risk, though, as Adam Levine and Gwen Stefani demonstrated in a dreary take on Maroon 5’s “My Heart Is Open” that felt like a total waste of Stefani’s natural effervescence. The same went for Tom Jones and Jessie J’s drab “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” which capitalized on neither singer’s enormous voice, and Ariana Grande’s “Just a Little Bit of Your Heart,” which sacrificed her bubbly charm in an attempt to summon some Mariah Carey-level power. A little spectacle would’ve helped any
of those performances, as indeed it did Sia’s “Chandelier,” basically a live version of the song’s dance-focused music video (with the addition of a very game Kristen Wiig wearing the clip’s familiar nude leotard), and Pharrell Williams’ unexpectedly disturbing “Happy,” which reconfigured the bouncy funk-pop tune as a dramatic meditation on police violence. You expected a bit more of that _ of the old Grammys grandiosity _ from Beyonce, pop’s biggest star, who closed the show as part of an extended sequence that also featured John Legend and Common’s song “Glory.” Dressed more or less as an angel, Beyonce sang the gospel standard “Take My Hand, Precious Lord,” surrounded by men in white suits holding their hands up. The moment felt pregnant with meaning, completely ready to burst. But it never did. Beyonce simply sang the hymn _ sang the stuffing out if it, actually _ while her face beamed an expression of pain. Or maybe it was hope. She seemed to want you to decide.
Commentary southerndigest.com
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The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body since 1926
SOUTHERN DIGEST
Limitless History
BY SHARITA SIMS
DIGEST COMMENTARY WRITER
Those of you who are avid readers of my column might remember me guaranteeing to alarm the conscious and to be a potential guide in your awakening. Well, if I didn’t touch basis on this issue I’d be failing you. February has begun and within the black community this is the month of which Black History is celebrated. That statement alone should have disrupted your thought process... It is truly ironic that black folks living in this society religiously honor the idea that they should, and for the shortest month of the year only, celebrate their history. One month in celebration of all that blacks have overcome and accomplished in this country in correlation to 500 plus years of oppression is absurd. I would never protest opportunities for black people to join together on a positive note but this particular note should be a daily reminder, not an annual one. According to some, we have arrived far
beyond where we used to be, i.e. being labeled colored/negro. So why then are we still holding on to the belief that there should be a month dedicated to our heritage? If we have arrived “far beyond” our past, why don’t we believe that every day of our lives should be dedicated to our heritage? Something for you to ponder on. The efforts of Dr. Carter G. Woodson will not go unmentioned and he will be honored for the establishment of “Negro History Week”. Dr. Woodson believed that besides building self-esteem among blacks, Negro History Week would help eliminate prejudice among whites. At the time, this accomplishment granted blacks a chance to rejuvenate their spirits in an attempt towards progression. Although what Dr. Woodson missed was that it would take astonishingly more than a week of every year to build the self-esteem of blacks, but this was a start for him. After that there was the national awareness by President Gerald R. Ford, who “officially” recognized Black History Month. Now technically speaking, this annual recognition that was given by a white American alone could have eliminated all of the self-esteem gained by blacks because he took something that was already created by a black man and decided he was kind enough to allot our people a few more days of entitlement. I wish black people in this country would en masse give the “generosity” back.
I wish we could see that we deserve and are immeasurably more than a month’s worth of acceptance. The most heart-breaking factor of it all is that we still acknowledge Black History Month at Historically Black Colleges and Universities… Universities that are black, historically, meaning that the history of our universities and the history of the people whom these universities were designed for should be included in daily reflections. Yet here we are, suppressing our reflections and duties as young blacks in these institutions at a yield to disclose it for merely a single month. It is a problem in itself that blacks aren’t acknowledging and reflecting every day of their black lives, but specifically at HBCUs, enlightened and scholarly young black people should know and embrace history that they extend from and are making every day. I believe to my soul that my generation in particular has the truest potential to turn culture and social conditions around for blacks in America, but before we even plan for baby steps, we must open our third eye to see things as they truly are. A small portion of that is knowing that our accomplishments, endurances, and future advancements have no limits and will not be put into a four week duration on a calendar. The history of our blood is eternal.
Tuesday, February 10, 2015 - Page 11
SPEAKOUT What have you done to make your semester successful? How?
BY: DERYLLE SPEAR II DIGEST STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
TYLER MICKENS
SOPHOMORE MASS COMM. VARNADO
“Sleeping better! I started going to sleep at a reasonable MICKENS time. It helps me feel better and allows me to be more organized.”
COURTNEY JOHNSON
APPAREL MERCHANDISING & TEXTILES JUNIOR NATCHITOCHES
“This semester I’ve become very focused JOHNSON and super organized. Balancing work, school, and personal life, I’ve learned that time-management and staying focused are keys to success.”
JASMINE JOHNSON PRE-ALLIED HEALTH FRESHMAN BOGALUSA
JOHNSON
“I have been better prepared for class and getting there on time everyday.”
JORDAN C. DUKES
ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING JUNIOR BATON ROUGE
“Attending fewer social events. I DUKES started by just staying home. At the end of the day it’s no place like home.”
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.
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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.
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Page 12 - Tuesday, February 10, 2015
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