Student Government Association Presidential Candidates Charissa M. Carroll
Nicholas Wayne Harris
Vying For SGA President “Believing in Southern; #WeAreSU.“ Platform: Working with the students of SU through more activities, beautification, and communication so that we can make our next century greater than ever. Lives by- God has a reason and a plan for everything.
Vying For SGA President “Believe, Achieve, and Conquer TOGETHER“ Platform: Re-mastering the Blue P.R.I.N.T of Southern University Lives by- I am the master of my faith and the captain of my soul.
22 years old Chemistry Alexandria, LA
SGA Vice-Presidential Candidates Sara Anne Martin
20 years old Biology Rosedale, LA
Miss Southern University Candidates
21 years old Political Science Denham Springs, LA Vying For SGA Vice-President “Change“ Platform: Improving Campus Issues With a Hands On Approach. Lives by- We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence therefore is not an act but a habit. -Aristotle
Vance Mitchell No Photo Available
Civil Engineering Atlanta, Georgia Vying For SGA Vice-President “Your next VP for the new century“ Platform: Change for the Century: Implementing change through the 3 check marks of success that I feel would make a better campus: sustainability, security, and traffic & parking.
Shanice Sam
initiatives I’m trying to accomplish if elected, are 20 years old to continue on the path of Biology our current Miss Southern, Maurice, LA Ayanna Spivey, by continuing “My hear beats for SU“ on with community outreach Platform: Over my programs and services. I matriculation here at would also like to implement Southern University, I have Keeping Southern Beautiful, been involved various organizations, and would like SU Against Violence, and promoting African American to use the knowledge I’ve obtained from holding those Health. Lives by- Life isn’t about positions to the next level finding yourself; it’s about by vying for Miss Southern creating yourself. University 2014-2015. The
Erin D. Prestage
20 years old Mass Communications Houston, TX “The One“ Platform: The one with a focus on a student personal finance, the one with a focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the one with a focus
on sustaining Jaguar pride, the one with a focus on service to the community. Lives by- The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest thing, he’s the one who gets the people to do the greatest things.
Centennial Gala to fund student scholarships Brittany Patterson Staff Writer Southern University continues to celebrate its Centennial with the upcoming “Celebrating 100 Years on the Bluff” Centennial Gala that will be held on April 17 at 7 p. m. at the L’Auberge Casino. According to administrators, the Gala is a
Inside this Issue:
fundraising opportunity for the university. Dr. James Llorens, Chancellor of Southern University and A&M College said that the funds received from these events are intended for scholarships. “The Gala is a fundraising objective, “said Llorens. Margaret Ambrose, chair of the Centennial Steering Committee stated that helping
Campus Briefs ..............................................Page 2 News .............................................................Page 3 Sports ............................................................Page 4 Meet the Candidates .................................Page 6
students is pertinent and that the funds will go towards student scholarships. “The funding will be going to student scholarships. We want to help our students especially those deserving of the help,” said Ambrose. A scholarship available is the Chancellor’s Scholarship is a year round scholarship for current and future students at SU. The
scholarship will help eligible students if they still have a balance after they have received their financial aid. The overall criterion is that a student must have a 2.0 grade point average and have good academic standing. Students commented on how they felt about
Arts & Entertainment ................................ Page 8 Photos of the Week ................................... Page 9 Commentary ................................................ Page 11 Advertisement ............................................ Page 12
THE OFFICIAL STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY AND A&M COLLEGE, BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA
CENTENNIAL GALA Continued P3.
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T H E S O U T H E R N D I G E S T / / T H U R S DAY, M A RC H 27, 2 014
ANNOUNCEMENTS - PAID CLASSIFIED - MISSION STATEMENT CLASSIFIED The Southern DIGEST is not responsible for the contents, promises, nor statements made in any classified and reserve the right to reject any ad request with explanation. No classified ads will be accepted or processed over the telephone and must accept the type font sizes of The DIGEST.
Campus Briefs WHAT’S HAPPENING SU AG CENTER CELEBRATES NATIONAL AGRICULTURE DAY
The Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center, along with JAGS in Ag, will celebrate their Annual National Ag Day on March 25. The celebration will begin on March 24th and end on March 26th.
GRAD PREP DAYS AT THE BOOKSTORE ORDER YOUR CAMP AND GOWN FOR SPRING COMMENCEMENT Students receiving their degrees during the Spring Commencement will be able to order their Cap and Gown, Invitations, Rings, Stoles, and Diploma Frames at the Southern University Bookstore March 25th & 26th from 10am- 4pm. * A $20 late fee will be applied to all orders beginning March 27th.
Faculty members participating in the Spring Commencement are also encouraged to order or rent their Regalia during the Graduation Preparation Day. For more information, call the SU Bookstore at (225) 771.4330 or join our event at FB/southernuniversitybookstore
F.Y.E.
The First Year Experience Program will host “First Year
Friday’s.” This forum is mandatory for all Freshman and will be held on the first and third Friday’s of each month. “First Year Fridays” will begin on March 21 and will begin with the transitional series, “Navigating Terms.” For more information, contact Derrick Cavazos, Coordinator for First Year Experience at derrick_cavazos@subr.edu Memorial Student Union.
ADVISEMENT WEEK
March 24th is the beginning of Advisement week.
SCANDAL WATCH PARTY
The Beta Psi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. will have a Scandal watch party March 27 in the Royal Cotillion Ballroom.
CARWASH
Miss Southern University and C.O.P.S will hold a carwash fundraiser March 28 from 2 to 5p.m. at Auto Parts located on 7838 Scenic Highway. COURSE SCHEDULING Course scheduling and registration for summer and fall will begin March 31st
FINANCIAL AID
The deadline to renew your FASFA for the 2014-2015 school year is March 31,2014. The school code is 002025
SU CHEER TRYOUTS
The S.U. Cheer leaders will hold co-ed tryouts March 31st- April 5th
MUSICAL CELEBRATION
“Restoring a Century of Excellence” will be presented by Southern University’s Music Department. Friday, March 28, 2014 at 7:00PM in the Debose Recital Hall. Tickets and/or donations are $10.
SPEAKER SERIES
The SU office of Student Life Lyceum Speaker Series will have Best Selling Author of Zane, Kristina Laferne Roberts. Monday March 31, 2014 at 6 P.M. in the Royal Cotillion Ballroom. SU POLICE ENCOURAGING FIRST CALL REGISTRATION Students should log onto www. subr.edu and click on student, then proceed to click First Call and complete the required information.
ALL CLASSIFIED MUST BE PAID IN ADVANCE BY CASHIERS CHECK OR MONEY ORDER. NO PERSONAL CHECKS ACCEPTED. Students must have proper ID and phone numbers to get student advertising rates. Rates do not apply to students who are representatives & employees of the com-pany. In the event an error is made in a classified ad, immediate claims and notice must be given within 15 days. The DIGEST is only responsible for ONE replacement or run in the next publication. Classified are due ONE WEEK prior to run date. Paid Classified can be ordered by contacting the Student Media Advertising Manager at 225.771.5833. PAGE 2 / CAMPUS BRIEFS All submissions must be received by 3 p.m. each Friday prior to Tuesday’s Issue and by 3 p.m. each Monday prior to Thursday’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 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
ISSN: 1540-7276. Copyright 2012 by The Southern University Office of Student Media Services. The Southern DIGEST is written, edited and published by members of the student body at Southern University and A&M College. 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 published twice-weekly (Tuesday & Thursday) with a run count of 5,000 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. 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. Southern University and A&M College at Baton Rouge is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, telephone (404) 679-4500, Website: www.sacscoc.org. MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Southern University and A&M College, an Historically Black, 1890 land-grant institution, is to provide opportunities for a diverse student population to achieve a high-quality, global educational experience, to engage in scholarly, research, and creative activities, and to give meaningful public service to the community, the state, the nation, and the world so that Southern University graduates are competent, informed, and productive citizens. Website: www.subr.edu.
ATTENTION ALL RECOGNIZED STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS!
2014 YEARBOOK SUBMISSIONS All recognized student organizations are encouraged to submit their informaton and photos by the required April 30th deadline. For more information stop by 1064 T.H. Harris Hall or call (225) 7715819.
The deadline is approaching for “Jaguar” Yearbook submissions. Don’t miss your chance to be apart this commemorative publication.
STOP BY 1064 T.H. HARRIS HALL:
Submit your organization’s group photo as well as any social or service event you would like featured.
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T H E S O U T H E R N D I G E S T / / T H U R S DAY, M A R C H 27, 2 014
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Senate discusses new initiates, bills and more Marchandrea Seals Staff Writer The Southern University Student Government Association Senate meeting was held on Tuesday at 6:00 pm in the Mocha Room of the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union. Topics discussed were Senate Initiatives, bills, and the SUprogramming website. There were not many Southern University students in attendance for the meeting besides the media. The Senate Initiatives were Campus Safety, Campus Beautification, Recycling and Sustainability, Child Care, Information, Finance, and Special Initiatives. Initiatives are built to improve situations and dissolve problems on Southern University Campus. So far, the Campus Beautification initiative has updated the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union, which includes a new multi-purpose room next to the Game room, new doors in the Cotillion Ballroom, new plants and the repainting of walls inside the union and
blue benches outside the union. The second order of business was the issue of bills that were passed by the Legislative Branch, but not yet active. Some of the other bills that passed were voted on were by the student body. The SUprogramming website was created to keep students updated with SGA activities and their progress. On the website SGA Senators quotes will be available as well as pictures with collaboration of Dr. Price. There is a web design that will put into play soon. The student attendance in the Senate Meetings is usually very low. One of the main slogans of the SGA Senate meetings was “Share Your Voice” which encourages students to speak out. There is a special section in the middle of the meeting called Public Input. Usually the media makes up majority of the attendance. Media Persanalls are either the Southern Digest Staff and or Dr. Price. Some students are unaware of the SGA Senate meetings, and that their opinions actually matter on Southern matters. Freshman
CENTENNIAL GALA From P1.
the Centennial Gala proceeds funding student scholarships. As of now, the Gala has approximately over $100,000 available for student scholarships. Llorens said that every year, these funds run out. However, he wants to have as much money as possible in the scholarship budget for future reference. Kelsa Jackson, a freshman mass communications major from Plaquemine said that the fundraising for student scholarships is a good idea. “It’s a positive thing to do with the money and more students will be drawn to the university because of the scholarships that are available,” Jackson said. Nicholas L. Herring, junior history major from Monroe said at first he thought the prices were too high, but now understands the pricing of Gala tickets. “The prices of the Gala tickets are pretty high and I was wondering what exactly will these funds from the Gala be going towards. I’m glad they’re going to scholarships. The Chancellor’s push for scholarships is a very good thing,” Herring said. The Centennial Gala sponsorship and tickets are available at four levels of sponsorships,
with varying pricing. Those who give $10, 000 or more will be known as a Gold level sponsor at the Gala. A Gold level sponsor is known as a “Defender of the Gold and Blue.” Advantages of being a Gold level sponsor will receive promotions at the Gala and on the website, recognition, which are audio and visual. There will be two premier table settings available for 20 persons. There will be Centennial souvenir gifts for all guests. Silver level sponsors are the next levels of sponsorship. These sponsors give 7,500 to Ambrose commented on what attendees should look forward to. “It’s going to be a very elegant evening. It is a black tie event. The atmosphere is going to be exciting because we are celebrating 100 years on Scott’s Bluff,” Ambrose said. Dr. Beverly Wade, former and retired dean of Delores Margaret RichardSpikes Honors College spoke on behalf of the Gala committee. “On the behalf of the Gala committee, I want the public to look forward to participating in the event. It is going to be a spectacular affair and well-worth the effort, “Wade said.
LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD! SUBMIT YOUR LETTER TO THE EDITOR EMAIL: DIGEST@SUBR.EDU
Nursing Major Kaneshia Stewart from Baton Rouge,said she never heard or attendede the meetings. “I have not heard about the
students enough about them,” said Stewart. “They should inform more people by using flyers, posters, and inform our professors.
enough,” said Stewart. “SGA should use Emails, Instagram post, and Tweets more rapidly.” You can follow SGA Senate’s on
Astavven Cotton/DIGEST Members of the SU Senate discuss upcoming budget plans and initiatives to be implemented in the near future.
meetings,” said Stewart. “If I knew about them, I would take time out to go.” Stewart explained why she never heard about the meetings and knows her voice matters here at Southern. “I think they do not inform
Most students do not check their email.”Sophomore Therapeutic Recreation major Kambre’ Stewart from Houma, LA explained she did know about the meeting. “I did know about the meetings because it is probably not promoted
instagram @subr_senate and on twitter @Subr_Senate. The next SGA Senate meetings are April 1 and April 22 at 6:00 p.m. in Harris Hall Annex Auditorium.
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Banks named a finalist for two prestigious awards Felix Cunningham III SPOrtS eDitOr On Monday 15 finalists were announced by Collegeinsider.com for the 2014 Ben Jobe Award and the 2014 Skip Prosser Man of the Year Award. Of those names Southern University’s very own Head Basketball Coach Roman Banks has been dubbed a finalist for such both esteemed awards. The Ben Jobe Award is awarded for the nation’s top minority men’s coach in NCAA Division I basketball. The award was founded in 2010 by legendary coach, Ben Jobe. Jobe coached at numerous historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) but his longest tenure was at Southern University and A&M College where he served for 12 years. According to TSPN Sports, Jobe had 524 victories throughout his basketball career and his most prominent victory was while coaching at SU when the team went to the NCAA tournament and won against the fourth seed Georgia State 93-78. His record at SU is 209-141 (675) and included four NCAA tournament appearances. He also coached the Jaguars into one NIT appearance, five SIAC championships, 11 SWAC titles, and two NAIA championships. The Ben Jobe award was awarded to Head Coach Ed Cooley when he coached at Fairfield University with the record of 23-11 in the 2009-2010 season. He now coaches at Providence University. Now the award is currently held by
Head coach Kevin Ollie of Connecticut with his season record of 20-10 and he is once again named a finalist. Likewise, the Skip Prosser Man of the Year Award is awarded for the nation’s men’s head basketball coach in NCAA Division I that exhibits a strong moral character on and off the court. Skip Prosser, former head coach of Xavier University (OH) and Wake Forest. Skip Prosser is the only coach in NCAA history to lead three separate teams to the NCAA Tournament in his first season with the team. Prosser passed in 2007 and the award was first issued in 2008. The first recipient of the Skip Prosser Man of the Year Award was Mike Brey, head coach of Notre Dame in his 20072008 season with the record of 25-8. The present holder of the award for 2012-2013 season is Joe Milhalich, head coach of Niagara, with a record of 19-14. With his third season as a Division I Coach, Banks led SU from the slums of NCAA APR trouble to the summit of the Southwestern Athletic Conference, grasping the title in 2013 and this season holding the regular season title early in the season. He has held the Coach of the Year award by the SWAC for two years in a row with guiding SU this season, 1912 overall and 15-3 in conference play. It was never known that Southern the 16th seed would face the insurmountable, the number one seed Gonzaga in the 2013 NCAA tournament. In their toil of war with Gonzaga, Gonzaga did prevail with a score of 58-64
Three strikes you’re out! Southern drops three consecutive to Grambling State Felix Cunningham III SPOrtS eDitOr There’s an old saying that three times a charm, but such luck wasn’t given to Southern University’s baseball team against Grambling on March 22nd and the 23rd in their three game bout. Even after the win 4-3 against Mid Eastern Athletic Conference team, McNeese, beforehand it became a dreary night for the Jaguars when they submitted defeat against the Tigers. Grambling avenged their two losses earlier in the season with three back-to-back wins in a row. Southern University now lands at the bottom of the Western Division of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (1-6, 4-12). At the end of the night, the third bout was 1-9, a devastating loss. The other two games ended with 7-8 and 5-9. To start off that night, Grambling heated up with three runs to begin their first inning. Kiser had an RBI, Bell stole home, and Minter even got a run in. Southern was out of the league for scoring early in the game. Consequently, SU didn’t allow Grambling to score any runs until the 4th inning when Medina scored for Grambling. SU did not get a run in until the 8th inning, sophomore In-fielder, Harley Wiltz, scored and unfortunately it would become their last point of the night. Every inning Southern ended without success and finished the game with 8 hits. Leading was the senior outfielder
BrianRowdy with two doubles. But in the field the Jags kept themselves in trouble while sacrificing the ball for a total of four errors. “We didn’t do well. We didn’t swing the bats well at all. And when we went to the hole, we weren’t able to stop them,” Head Coach of Southern Roger Cador said, “It’ s a situation that has been occurring all year. We’re just trying to find a way to make it better.” Cador spoke on the urgency of working with the players and enhancing the talent that is present on the team and give them the arabesque picture of success. “We’re going to continue to work with the kids and try to paint a picture in their minds about what it’s going to take for them to enjoy success,” Cador said, “It’s the little things, we have to hit better and make sure the runners get in scoring position.” Freshman pitcher J’Markus George (01) gave up four runs, three earned, on eight hits in five innings. “We had some mental breakdowns,” Cador said, “They forced George to make a lot of pitches but he made the pitches. In addition to physical errors, we made some mental errors.” For Southern to qualify in the SWAC, they have to take themselves out of last place in the western division and at least stoke themselves to a higher position. Southern now travels to Lafayette as they play against the top team in the Sun Belt Conference, Louisiana-Lafayette (6-0, 23-2), as they hold a win streak of 13, at Moore Field on March 26, 2014 at 6:00p.m.
COURTESY OF GOJAGSPORTS.COM
but it was a televised game to remember. The finalists for the Ben Jobe Award include Tommy Amaber (Harvard), Johnny Dawkins (Stanford), Ron Hunter (Georgia State), James Jones (Yale), Joe Jones (Boston University), Mike James (Radford), Danny Manning (Tulsa), Cuonzo Martin (Tennesse), Rob Murphy (Eastern Michigian), Levelle Moton (North Carolina Central), Kevin Ollie (Conneticut), Monte Ross (Delaware), Gary Waters (Cleveland State), and Willis Wilson (Texas A&M Corpus Christi). The finalists for the Skip Prosser Awards include; John Becker (Vermont),
Glenn Braica (St. Francis Brooklyn), Dick Hunsaker (Utah Valley), Tony Jasick (IPFW), Joe Jones (Boston University), Mike Kryzyzewski (Duke), Paul Lusk (Missouri State), Phil Martelli (Saint Joeseph’s), Randy Rahe (Weber State), Monte Ross (Delaware), Wayne Tinkle (Montana), Brian Wardle (Green Bay), Michael White (Louisiana Tech), and Jay Wright (Vilanova). Southern University is proud to have Head Coach Roman Banks to be a finalist for two prominent awards that have been created by legends in the NCAA.
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A CHALLENGING CAREER ALTERNATIVE Leading to a Professional Degree and National Certification and State License Master of Science Degree in
REHABILITATION COUNSELING ACCREDITED BY COUNCIL ON REHABILITATION EDUCATION Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) Scholarships are available for qualified US Citizens and Permanent Residents
$21,000 per year (including Graduate Assistantship of $5,500) covers Tuition, Books, Stipend, and Travel to Conferences FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND APPLICATION MATERIALS CONTACT: Madan M. Kundu, Ph.D., FNRCA, CRC, NCC, LRC Chair and Professor Department of Rehabilitation and Disability Studies Southern University, 229 A. C. Blanks Hall Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70813 Phone: 225-771-2325 or 225-771-2390 Fax: 225-771-2293 E-mail: kundusubr@aol.com Website: www.subr.edu/rehabilitation
The contents of this flyer were developed under a grant (H129B090012 and H129F100002) from the Rehabilitation Services Administration, U.S. Department of Education. This information does not necessarily represent the policy/opinion of the Department of Education and one should not assume endorsement by the federal government.
Meet the Candidates True Brown
18 years old Nursing Baton Rouge, LA Sophomore Class President “A True Vision“ Lives by- “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.”
Kadasjah Sharmise McMillion 19 years old Urban Forestry Winnsboro, LA
Miss Sophomore “Aspire to Inspire“ Platform: SU 17 Unity, Peace Within Our Class, Loving Our SU Lives by- “It’s not about where you come from, but where you are going.”
Zana Lynn Harris
Kiana Edison
Kyler Lastie
Sophomore Class Vice-President “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11: 1“
Sophomore Class Senator Lives By- “A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous” -Coco Chanel
Sophomore Class Senator “Living by faith and not by sight.“
18 years old Chemistry Baton Rouge, LA
18 years old Biology/Pre-Med Moreno Valley, CA
19 years old Civil Engineering Houston, TX
Joy Henderson
Nathan J. Morrison
John T. Carmouche
Lydell McLemore
Victoria Nicole Allen
Sophomore Senator Lives by- “Let no one despair you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. “1 Timothy 4:12
Sophomore Senator Lives by- “The predecessor to every action is thought.”
Vying for Junior Class President “Moving Forward: The Next Generation Platform: Implementing Campus Involvement To Enhance College Experience, Class Unity, Professional Development, and Strengthening Leadership
Vying for Junior Class President “Keep Lydell in your sight, to fight for what’s right“ Platform: Class Unification, Academic Excellence Incentive, and Campus Involvement Lives by- “God does not put more on us than we can bare. He gives his toughest battles to his strongest soldiers.”
Vying For Miss Junior “The perfect Southern Belle” Platform: Class Unity, Community Service, Health Awareness, High School Seminars Lives by – I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
18 years old Chemistry/Pre-Med Monroe, LA
18 years old Mechanical Engineering Mer Rouge, LA
20 years old Marketing Baton Rouge, LA
20 years old Nursing Dallas, TX
19 years old Political Science Newellton, LA
Alexis Calhoun 20 years old Biology Natchitoches, LA
Vying For Miss Junior “Progress With Lex” Platform: I am promoting fitness and health among my classmates, as well as recycling and unity. I am enforcing SU beautification to enhance the university as well as internships from Career Services Lives by- James 4:3 I live by these words because you can’t do everything by yourself.
Mar’Lesha Lorraine Hollins 19 years old Biology/Pre-Med Jackson, LA
Vying For Miss Junior “This looks like a job for SUperwoman“ Platform: Assist Miss Southern University, Maintain Communication Between Elected Officials and the General Student Body, Increase Community Service Initiatives, and Strengthen Bonds Throughout Our Class. Lives by- With great power comes great responsibility
Terika Smith
21 years old Nursing New Orleans, LA Vying For Miss Junior “The Queen with beauty and brains” Platform: I will represent the Class of SU 16 with confidence, class, and poise. I will promote class involvement on campus and in the community. I will be alongside the Class President to ensure that the voice of SU 2016 is heard. Lives by- God is within her, she will not fail. Psalms 46: 5
Chelsey Thrasher
19 years old Louisville, KY Vying For Junior Class Senator “Be the change you want to see.“
Travante’ Johnson 20 years old Political Science Bogalusa, LA
Vying For Senior Class President Lives by- For God did not give us the spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7
The following candidates were unavailable for photos: Lawrence T. Williams
(Junior Class President)
Diamond Lanae Moses 20 years old Chemistry Pre-Med Covington, LA
Vying For Miss Senior Lives by- Now faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1
Shante’ Harvey 20 years old Political Science New Orleans, LA
Trenton Holt
22 years old Chemistry/Chemical Engineering Shreveport, LA
AWS Vice-President Lives by-It’s not the size of dog Vying For Chief Justice in the fight, it’s the size of fight “Not here to be face, here to of the dog. make a face“ Platform: Judiciary Programs, Open Forums, and Improve Traffic Court by SGA Judiciary. Lives by – “Keep God first and everything else will fall in place”
Mark McGee 21 years old Psychology Roseland, LA
Vying for Chief Justice Platform: Community Service, Reestablish Justice, Maintain Structure, Go Forward! Lives by- Life is what you make it, so make it worth while.
Keona C. Daniels
(Junior Class Senator)
Chase C. Evans
Men’s Federation President
Joshua J. Ross
Men’s Federation President
Juwan D. Sims
(Senior Class Vice-President)
Daniel E. Joiner
(Senior Class Justice)
Brent J. Baptiste
(Senior Class Senator)
Leah V. Kight
(Senior Class Senator)
Kiana Ambe Assata Upshaw (AWS President)
Dominique Diamond 21 years old Physical Education Kentwood, LA
Vying For Men’s Federation President “Don’t let your struggle become your identity.“
Jerry Kinchen
21 years old Therapeutic Recreation New Iberia, LA Vying For Men’s Fed President Platform: Mentoring, Communication, Professionalism, and Inclusiveness. Lives by- It’s not where you come from that matters, only where you allow it to take you.
Voting will be held on April 7, 2014 from 9AM-5PM Location: Royal Cotillion Ballroom.
*Please bring your photo I.D.
Page 8
‘Scandal’ actor Columbus Short charged with felony
T H E S O U T H E R N D I G E S T I T H U R S DAY, M A RC H 27, 2 014
Not made to be a Mistress Forum Courtney Jacobs PHOtO eDitOr
As a part of AKA Week 2014, the Beta Psi chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated hosted the Olivia and Fitz “Not made to be a Mistress” relationship forum
on her, but he always manages to pull her back in. As an icebreaker, there were volunteers called to the front of the ballroom to give their information, and to pick which character from the show best represented them and why. Rayven Lamar, a 19 year old
are advantages to being the other woman or man, and if so, what are they?” Asked Alaric Jones, a 22 year old senior chemistry major from Alexandria. This question caused a lot of stir, and Megan Henderson was the first to answer.
with his brother’s wife, in relation to the question asked by Jones. The main point of the clip was that even though Olivia was telling her client to end the affair, she was also telling herself to end the affair with President Fitz.
Anthony McCartney aP eNtertaiNMeNt Writer
Columbus Short, a lead actor on the television series “Scandal,” was arrested Wednesday on a felony charge that he seriously injured a man during an altercation at a restaurant earlier this month. Short was arrested by police in Claremont on a warrant issued in a case that alleges he committed a battery that caused serious bodily harm. The actor was involved in a dispute with a man at a West Los Angeles restaurant March 15 before Short hit the man and knocked him out, according to Los Angeles police and prosecutors. Further details about the altercation were not released. Short, 31, plays attorney Harrison Wright on ABC’s hit series “Scandal.” Records show he was released Wednesday after posting $50,000 bail. If convicted, Short faces up to four years in state prison. A date for his initial court appearance has not yet been set. A phone number for Jeff Jacquet, Short’s attorney in another criminal case, had a full voicemail box, and a message sent via fax was not immediately returned. Short was charged Feb. 14 with misdemeanor spousal battery and has pleaded not guilty in that case. A judge ordered him to stay away from his wife, Tuere Short, at a March 5 court hearing. Records show she filed for divorce last year but dismissed her petition earlier this year. Columbus Short, who also starred in the 2007 film “Stomp the Yard,” was charged with felony battery in June 2010 and pleaded no contest to the reduced charge of disturbing the peace in February 2011. He was placed on three years of informal probation and not to threaten or use violence on anyone. Court records show he paid his fines and resolved the case without issue.
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Astavven Cotton/DIGEST The ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority,Inc hosted a Q&A forum based on the subject of relationships. There panel included four members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority,Inc and four male panelist from Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc.
that was held Monday night in the Royal Cotillion Ballroom. The theme of AKA Week 2014 was Skandal, a play on the hit ABC television show “Scandal” created by Shonda Rhimes. The TV show— produced by Shondaland Productions—is about a White House Communications Director, Olivia Pope, who leaves to start her own crisis management firm only to discover that she can’t leave her past behind, according to IMDB. President Fitzgerald Grant is married to Mellie Grant, although he enjoys an intimate relationship with Olivia Pope, whenever Mellie isn’t domineering their marriage. This scandalous relationship is relatable because often individuals find themselves playing a game of tug-a-war. Olivia tries to ease up and break free of the hold Fitz has
freshman business major from St. James Parish, said she was like Mellie. “Even though she gets overlooked most of the time, Mellie would do anything for her family,” said Lamar. “She would do anything to get the job done,” finished Lamar. Jakeitha Baker, a 21 year old junior child development major from Hammond, described herself as the “it” girl of the show, Olivia Pope. “Olivia is seen as the “problem fixer” and I have that same role in my family,” said Baker. “President Fitz can’t get enough of her and I want to be like that to someone someday.” The audience members were able to ask questions that were either chosen out of a cup, or that they came up with themselves. “Do you believe that there
“I can’t speak from experience, but I can assume that some advantages are that you don’t get nagged as often. However the disadvantages are that you get the short hand of the stick and you can’t eat crawfish and potatoes with the family.” Her response caused a lot of laughter, but the panel raised their ‘I Agree’ papers because they knew she was telling the truth. One panel member, however, did disagree. “It just depends on the person. Sometimes being the other person is better for that particular person,” said Troy Davis, the 21 year old civil engineering major who was representing the Rho chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated. A clip from the show was then shown of Olivia catching one of her clients in an affair
“Do you think that physical attributes are more important to maintaining a successful relationship or do you think that a friendship maintains a relationship?” Asked Jailyn Jackson, a nursing major from Plaquemine. The entire panel, including the audience, agreed that both aspects are involved in maintaining a successful relationship. We all say that “looks aren’t everything,” but deep down we know that we want our significant other to look good as well as have a good personality. The members of Alpha Kappa Alpha used their relationship forum to discuss affairs, loyalty, “being the other woman,” and self-worth among a portion of the student body.
Alliyah Moore/Digest
Alliyah Moore/Digest
Joshua McKnight/Digest
Joshua McKnight/Digest
Joshua McKnight/Digest
Joshua McKnight/Digest
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The real definition of the term “Bossy.”
Can definitions hinder your ability to succeed?
Jaleyah Davis Staff Writer The Girl Scouts of America and the Lifetime network currently being the sponsors of the “Ban Bossy” campaign that has gotten attention from the likes of many successful women leaders in our society such as Condoleezza Rice, Beyonce Knowles, Diane von Furstenberg, Jane Lynch, Sheryl Sandberg, and Anna Maria Chavez that participate in a Public Service Announcement to empower young girls. Among these women, men Jimmie Johnson and Arne Duncan spoke out against the word bossy. In the beginning of the Public Service Announcement (PSA) the women incessantly repeat
the adjectives pushy, stubborn, and bossy in hopes of replacing them with words that encourage young girls to become women of leadership. Being pushy is not synonymous with being a boss; in fact the exact definition is to be obnoxiously forward or selfassertive. Being stubborn isn’t synonymous with being a boss, it has various definitions such as being unreasonably obstinate, fixed or set in purpose or opinion, or difficult to manage or suppress. Being bossy isn’t synonymous with being a boss; the term is meant to describe individuals who are given to ordering people about, overly authoritative, or domineering. A boss is defined as a person in charge of a worker or organization. I believe in the power of the dictionary. Daily I encounter people using words in what they believe to be the right context based on how they’ve heard it being used previously or in the wrong text (myself concluded). It is imperative to understand words because as much as we
want to believe that “sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me”, we all know that words have an affect on our being or else. The Girl Scouts of America and Lifetime wouldn’t take the initiative to ban bossy. Being a boss is not equivalent to bossing people around. It’s okay to want to guide, oversee, or be an advocate for others, but it is in the way you decide to guide, oversee, and advocate that differentiates you from being a boss or straight up bossy. For the most part, as a college student the majority of Southern’s population has been, or is a part of the work force. From my own experience, I have never appreciated a domineering, overtly outspoken, or obstinate boss. In being domineering, outspoken, or obstinate there is a level of limitation imposed upon an employee. A key rule in critical thinking (a key skill in the work force) is remaining objective. With “bossy” personalities as authoritative figures, a
company, organization, or initiative hinders its ability to see beyond the black and white. If Beyonce listened to Public Relations executives about needing to promote her latest album prior to it’s release, not initially limiting her album to iTunes, limiting her lyrical content, or limiting her album to a strictly listening experience, she wouldn’t be the boss that she is today. Beyonce holds the Guinness World Record for fastest-selling album on iTunes, follows in Janet Jackson’s footsteps with an album filled with feminist, girl power content, and creates a visual album so that fans can relate to her on many levels. Beyonce stated in interviews, “I am bored with that.” That is what ignites the passion of a true leader, not name-calling. When you feel as though your vision no longer fits into society’s mold, you become an advocate for something greater – a broader, less defined mold so that millions can flourish within the same construct.
Who can really blame kids for calling young girls bossy? Even as adults it is uncomfortable dealing with pushy and stubborn individuals, especially in the workplace. Being called bossy does not hinder you from your potential boss status; it should shape a child into understanding that their current form of attempted leadership is unacceptable and should be adjusted. That is the art of leadership. I’m all for feminism, female empowerment, and girl power in general, but instead of banning a word, let’s do something more significant like redefining a word. Why when one says pushy, stubborn, or bossy is it thought to hinder a child’s ability to be a leader? What does that say about our definition of a leader? How can we as women, employees, leaders, and potential leaders create a mold so unbreakable that a measly word like bossy won’t get in the way of our talents? That is the key to the future success of our young girls.
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The Benefits of a Higher Minimum Wage and Health Care Question of the Day
What is your favorite part of the SGA election season? ALEX FUSELIER ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING SOPHOMORE LAKE CHARLES “My favorite part above election is that it is refreshing to know I have a voice and I can let it be heard.”
COURTNEY CHARGOIS BUSINESS MANAGEMENT SENIOR “Seeing new people talk about what they will do if they are elected into office.”
BRANDON JAY BUSINESS MARKETING SENIOR DALLAS, TEXAS “My favorite part is to be able to use the powers given as a student and vote on the direction of our campus.”
DORIAN C. WILLIAMS THERAPEUTIC RECREATION & LEISURE STUDIES SENIOR NEW ORLEANS “I enjoy getting the opportunity to know the candidates and hearing their platforms.”
CeasaR sMiTh, JR. Staff Writer Local minimum wage laws prove effective With Congress at a standstill, states, cities and counties are taking matters into their own hands with minimum wage. Twenty-one states and the District of Columbia have established a higher minimum wage than the federal $7.25 per hour, and more than 120 cities in counties across the nation have followed suit - often requiring city service contractors to be paid between $12 and $15 per hour. According to UC Berkeley economist Michael Reich, studies in these localities indicate that workers’ wages and access to health care have increased, while employment rates have remained stable. That’s because businesses in these cities and counties successfully absorbed increased labor costs through savings from reduced worker turnover and improved efficiency. Researchers also found that a 10 percent minimum wage increase adds 0.7 cents on the dollar to restaurant prices, a small price to pay for lifting workers and their families out of poverty. Louisiana is one of five states without its own minimum wage law, and the state also bans local governments from establishing their own minimum wage. But that has not stopped city councils from New Orleans to Monroe
from passing ordinances asking the state to raise minimum wage laws. State Rep. Marcus Hunter, D-Monroe, filed House Bill 644 to remove this prohibition. Across the state, a solid majority of Louisianans, seventy-three percent support a state minimum wage of at least $8.50 an hour that would keep pace with the cost of living. Simply put, Louisiana needs a higher wage. Deadline looms for signing up for health insurance Louisiana has a high rate of uninsured residents, but few of them are signing up for coverage through the new federal insurance marketplace, The Advocate reported in its Sunday edition. Only 45,560 state residents have signed up for coverage through the end of February, and fewer than 10 percent of those are eligible. Some areas of the state are doing better than others in getting people connected with affordable coverage. According to data from the Louisiana Budget Project, “Louisiana ranks 39th among all states in terms of the percentage of people enrolled. Of those who did sign up, 17,000 - or more than a third - were in New Orleans and Metairie, which had a goal of enrolling 23,000 residents by March 31. That puts the New Orleans area at roughly 74 percent of its goal, compared with 61 percent for the state as a whole.” Raising the minimum wage and having health care go hand-in-hand across the state. Governor Jindal and others have refused federal funding for the people of Louisiana when it comes to the Affordable Care Act. Businesses that have joined and share the governor’s views will be required to pay
penalties resulting from the lack of coverage, additionally those who have no coverage will also face penalties. Individuals who do not have coverage can expect penalties that could possibly be $750. The penalty will be taken from their income tax refund in the coming tax season. The deadline as it stands is March 31, 2014. Many argue the Affordable Care Act forces them unfairly into having coverage when it is not needed. What many do not understand is those who do not have coverage are one of the primary reasons for high cost regarding healthcare today. If they become ill and are treated, those costs are factored into the care and expense for the many. Those who have refused to allow the people of Louisiana affordable health care coverage should hold the same position next year when the fallout over their position will be the highest. I look for the recall petitions to start flying. If a politician(s) get into the pockets of the voters, their next move is to rid them from office. All of this is dependent upon the deadline remaining the same and all other factors remaining the same. It will be an interesting outcome. Food for thought: A higher minimum wage will make it more affordable to acquire proper health care coverage. Louisiana is the ideal environment for the Affordable Care Act to work as it should. Some of those who have been elected to office do not vote in the best interest of their constituents. The bigger problem is the constituents themselves do not vote for their own best interest.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions in this column are not directly those of the other Staff and Administration of The Office of Student Media, it is the sole opinion of the writer.
SPRING 2014 STUDENT MEDIA STAFF Editor-in-Chief ...................... Meagan L. WiIliams Managing Editor ..........................Lauren Johnson News Editor............................................................... Sports Editor ........................ Felix Cunningham III Photo Editor .................................Courtney Jacobs Copy Editor ....................................... Jaleyah Davis Layout Editor....................................... Kayla Foster Staff Writer ...................................Quinetta Ardoin Staff Writer ..................................... Sage Edgerson Staff Writer .......................... Aisiriuwa Egharevba Staff Writer ..................................Torrance Latham Staff Writer ................................ Brittany Patterson Staff Writer ............................. Marchandrea Seals Staff Photographer ....................Joshua Mcknight Staff Photographer ........................ Alliyah Moore Staff Photographer ....................Astavven Cotton
PROFESSIONAL STAFF OFFICE OF STUDENT MEDIA Director .......................................Heather Freeman Director of Advertising ........... Camelia Jackson Publications Asst. ..................... Jermaine Proshee
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