The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body since 1926
DIGEST THE SOUTHERN
JAGUARS FALL TO RAGIN CAJUNS See Sports page 4.
Tuesday, September 2, 2014
Volume 63 Issue 2
SUSGA PRESIDENT NICHOLAS HARRIS SHARES HIS TOP GOALS FOR 2014
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· Transparency between SGA and the student body to efficiently be the voice of the students · Transparency between SGA, Student Affairs and the Administration when decision are made that will directly effect students · More student to student relationships with emphasis on vocation, social, and economic views · Improving campus customer service and food service on campus · Endorsing more school spirit and support amongst all male/ female sports teams · Improving the campus transit system · More school wide community service and beatification projects on campus and the surrounding Baton Rouge community · Implementation of a clear recycling program and more visible waste bins around campus to prevent excess littering · Improvement of lighting on campus to ensure campus safety · The development of a student based recruitment team to reach out to a wider demographic of prospective students · Seek improvements in communications amongst the entire campus · Develop a campus wide mentorship program that will teach the history of the university and the keys to matriculating through college · Strengthen student’s utilization of the career services and CTLE department · Providing programs and campus events that will unify the students, faculty, and administration and increase the moral and pride they have for the university
Inside this Issue:
Campus Briefs...............................................Page 2 News ..............................................................Page 3 Sports .............................................................Page 4 Photos of the Week......................................Page 6
Arts & Entertainment ............................. Page 7 Arts & Entertainment .............................. Page 10 Commentary .............................................. Page 11 Advertisement ........................................... Page 12
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Campus Briefs FRIDAY HOURS Mayberry cafeteria will be open on Fridays from 11-2 and have extended lunch hours from 2- 3:30 and dinner 4- 7 p.m. Mayberry will be open on Labor Day.
GET MOBILE The John B. Cade Library will begin the mobile adventures on Thursday Sept. 4th from 2-4p.m. There will be food, fun and giveaways. Visit www.lib. subr.edu for more info.
BILLARDS TOURNAMENT Tournament will be held in the Smith-Brown Memorial union September 3rd from 6:00-9:00
ADVANCING MINORITIES INTEREST IN ENGINEERING CONFERENCE Southern University’s College of Engineering and Computer Science is hosting the 2014 Annual Advancing Minorities Interest in Engineering (AMIE) Conference on Thursday,
MOVIE NIGHT The SU Black History and Criminal Justice club will host movie night Sept. 3rd at 6:30 p.m. in the John B. Cade library in classroom A located on the 3rd floor. For more info contact Maya Riley Banks at (225) 7712776
“JAGUARS SPEAKOUT”
Sept. 4th in the P.B.S. Pinchback Engineering building.
UNIVERSITY CONVOCATION The Fall 2014 University Convocation for faculty, staff and students will be Sept. 4 from 11-1 in the F.G. Clark Activity Center.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body since 1926
Question of the Day
SUBR TO HOST NAAHBCU ART EXHIBITION The opening Reception will be held Friday, September 5, 2014, from 6-8pm in Frank Hayden Hall.
What do you think about the refusal to extend president Mason’s contract? D’Wailen Orupabo Music Senior Bastrop
“I think its distrubing. He should be allowed to have another considering all he has done for the campus.”
BIBLE ENRICHMENT CLASS The Way of Holiness Ministries will have Enrichment Bible Class Wednesday Sept. 17th from 7-8:30 p.m. The location will be announced. Follow on Twitter and Instagram @SUsWHOM or email at SUsWHOM@gmail.com for prayer request or concerns.
Audreana Marshall Education/Supply Chain Senior Maringouin “In my opinion as a student at Southern University, honestly I support this decision all the way. His job title was to control the board system not the on campus life.” Melvin B. Givens Mechanical engineering Senior Baton Rouge “If that seems to be the best decision for the benefit of other, then I will not argue.”
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. 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.
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.
Qui Nequi Winters Social work Sophmore Kentwood “I honestly think his contract should be extended because of all the things he’s done and I’m sure if he stays he will do even better things.”
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 4,000 copies per issue during the Southern University - Baton Rouge campus fall, spring semesters.
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 The paper is free to students, staff, faculty and general public every DIGEST is only responsible for ONE replacement or run in the Tuesday morning on the SUBR campus. The Southern DIGEST next publication. Classified are due ONE WEEK prior to run date. 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. Paid Classified can be ordered by contacting the Director of Advertising at The Southern DIGEST is the official student newspaper of Southern 225.771.5833. University and A&M College located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Articles, features, opinions, speak out and editorials do not necessarily PAGE 2 / CAMPUS BRIEFS All submissions must be received by 3 p.m. each Friday prior to reflect the views and opinions of the administration and its policies. Signed articles, feedback, commentaries and features do not necessarily Tuesday’s Issue. reflect the views of the editors, staff or student body. PAGE 2 is only available to officially registered campus organizations, Southern University Departments. All briefs should Southern University and A&M College at Baton Rouge is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of include a date, time, contact name & number. Colleges and Schools, 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 300334097, telephone (404) 679-4500, Website: www.sacscoc.org. Submit announcements to: The Southern DIGEST - Suite 1064 Harris Hall, Attn: PAGE 2 MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Southern University and A&M College, an CORRECTIONS Fact and accuracy is our goal and our job. As the voice of the Historically Black, 1890 land-grant institution, is to provide Southern University student body we are committed to ensuring to opportunities for a diverse student population to achieve a highmost fair, truthful and accurate accounts of our work. In the event quality, global educational experience, to engage in scholarly, research, and creative activities, and to give meaningful public of an error we will make all corrections on Page 2. service to the community, the state, the nation, and the world so Bring corrections to The Southern DIGEST office located in Suite that Southern University graduates are competent, informed, and productive citizens. Website: www.subr.edu. 1064, Harris Hall.
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Tuesday, September 2, 2014 - Page 3
SU Alum McCalope provides the Go-To for a “Good Job”
Meagan Williams/DIGEST WAFB reporter and web producer Michelle McCalope signs a book during the release of her new book, “Good Job“ on last Sunday in downtown Baton Rouge.
reasoning behind McCalope’s book she
enjoy it then we wont be happy people.”
writing chapters, but due to the lost of a few close friends she realized that life is short. “A couple of my friends died recently, and it hit me that life is short and on my bucket list was to write and publish a book, so I went on and did so,” said McCalope. Making decisions around her birthday McCalope decided that there needed to be a sense of urgency and that the time was now. While writing “Good Job” McCalope wanted her readers to be able to use it in any field, not just journalism. “I knew I had a good message, that the people needed to hear. I know many people that have jobs that they’ve been doing them for 20 years and they hate it, but it pays the bills and sends the kids to college,” said McCalope. Further explaining why we should be happy with our career choice McCalope goes on “ I believe we should be happy with or job, because we work so much, that if we don’t
asked the effects of one not being happy on the job McCalope went on to give a scenario explaining the domino affect of an unhappy worker. “You should find a job that you enjoy, because if your not happy your not doing anyone favors, because your family isn’t happy, because your complaining, your boss isn’t happy because your not doing the best job you can, just trying get by,” said McCalope. “So do your self a favor and the people around you a favor that you love and do something you love and enjoy,” finished McCalope. Being an SU graduate McCalope wanted to give a special dedication to the students and graduates of SU. “ Starting as an SU student, I didn’t know journalist or certain contacts, but SU gave me the proper tools to be successful, and I want the student of SU to know that they too can be successful.
Lauren Johnson replied that she had been planning to write “God wants us to be happy and I feel we are Managing Editor a book for years, and had already began better people when we are happier.” When
Award winning Journalist and Southern University Alumni Michelle McCalope has chosen to write and share her life accomplishments and advice via her published book titled “Good Job”: A guide and pursuing your passions and following your dreams. Introducing her book to her audience and supporters McCalope held her book signing Sunday August 17,2014 from 3 to 6pm at the Hotel Indigo located in the Downtown area. Upon entrance persons were able to purchase “Good Job” for 14 dollars receive a raffle ticket, and also an opportunity to write a small letter to the author. McCalope opened with reading certain sections of “Good Job” and sharing a few personal stories, next food was served and McCalope began signing and taking pictures with supporters. When asked about the inspirations and
Student Book Vouchers hit the Web Marchandrea Seals Staff Writer
With hopes to improve the process of student book vouchers the Southern University campus bookstore has partnered with financial aid to do book vouchers electronically. With them being done electronically students can simply give their identification number and a form of identification to cashier and receive their credit. Students will no longer have to wait in long lines only to receive a paper book voucher and then walk to the book
store to another long line to get their book voucher keyed into the bookstore system. Store manager of Southern University campus bookstore, Johns Dyar says the bookstore has benefited in many ways with the electronic book vouchers. “We no longer have to have a dedicated staff to key in vouchers all day,” said Dyar. “We can focus more on helping the students when they come in and it also speeds up the lines for the students .The new way is much better and saves everyone involved time, the student, the administration and the bookstore,”
finished Dyar. Ronneshia Ringo junior English major from New Orleans, La finds the new book voucher process much easier. “I think the new book voucher is more pleasurable and there is less time talking,” said Ringo. “It doesn’t take much of your time up which is much better. Also we don’t have to stand in financial aid line to get a paper, stating how much we have.” Shanetrese Ellis junior Education major from Monroe, La also finds the new book voucher process easier. “We don’t have to go to the book store
to get the voucher processed because it s already processed when we get to the bookstore. Therefore, all we got to do is get our books and go to the cash register,” said Ellis. “My only dislike is they do not show your remaining balance on your receipt.” Students can also shop online using their book vouchers on the website link www.subrshop.com for their books and pick them up in the store for free. For two years, book vouchers have been electronic at other college campus bookstores , with SU being the last to adopt this method.
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SU finds a Bright Spot in their Offense TORRANCE LATHAM Sports Writer As questions are sure to arise throughout the course of this week for Coach Dawson Odums and the Southern University football team after a convincing loss to University of Louisiana – Lafayette to open the season, the play of true freshmen quarterback Austin Howard can be something worth building upon. Though junior wide receiver Willie Quinn performed the best of any SU player on Saturday (8 catches for 105 yards), Howard came off the bench in the first half to provide an immediate spark, connecting with Quinn on his first collegiate pass for 56 yards. He completed the game passing 18 of 31 for 181 yards and a touchdown. Teammates and coaches were impressed by his poise. “I was happy for Howard. He’s been working hard since the first day he got on campus. He got in there and made things happen for us. There are some things, I wouldn’t say that he should be able to do them, but he understands the game. He does things that an older quarterback would.” Junior Tight End Bradley Coleman said. The struggles of starting redshirt freshmen quarter back Deonte Shorts (passing 2-for-9 for 29 yards) in his first game allowed for Howard to get more snaps under center as the game
Meagan Williams/DIGEST
True freshman quarterback, Auston Howard, readies for a play against a hammering LouisianaLafayette defense.
progressed. While Howard’s quality performance gives the coaching staff something to consider heading into this weekend’s home opener against Central Methodist, there was another silver lining for the Jaguars that significantly aided the
young QB’s composure, the offensive line. After a last-second effort to certify five starters failed to go through, SU was forced to insert several reserves, including two walk-ons players onto the
Elijah McGuire, ran for eight yards to extend the lead 10-0. Broadway scored his first touchdown in the second quarter when Cajuns player of the game receiver, Jamal Robinson, caught a 32-yard pass to lead 17-0. With some ample time remaining in the half, Broadway gunned the ball to wide receiver, Jared Johnson for 13 yards for a lead of 24-0. Southern finally got on the board halfway through the second half when 10 plays and an 80-yard drive, Howard found redshirt junior tight end, Bradley Coleman, from 23 yards accounting for Howard’s career first touchdown. Starting quarterback, Deonte Shorts, was supposed to control the reigns for the game but the substitution made in the beginning of the game has Odums and the coaching staff going back to the drawing board. Shorts night in his season opener was short-lived. “For Howard being a true freshman, he moved the ball when he was in there, and it just went to him. It’s nothing against Shorts, but we had a little more consistency when Howard was in there,” said Odums. Unfortunately, the Cajuns defense did not allow Southern to score any more points in the second half and the Cajuns scored twice more in the second half to lead 38-6.
Howard ended the night 18 out of 31 for 181 yards with one touchdown while Quinn exploded on the field with 105 yards and 8 catches, his second consecutive time reaching a hundred plus receiving yards in his time playing with the Jags. Broadway threw two touchdown passes for a first half blowout of 24-0 to complete the night 20 out of 32 for 237 yards and three touchdowns with two interceptions. His protégé, sophomore
offensive line. Starting offensive Tackle Reginald Redding and his replacement, Terrell Lee, both were unable to receive authorization to play. The solid play of Walk-ons Neako Jones, Jamal Boulden, and the rest of the o-line impressed Coach Odums tremendously. “I don’t think the offensive line gave up a sack. With two walk-ons, they went toeto-toe with some massive individuals. I’m proud of them,” Coach Odums said. In addition to not giving up one sack to a FCS program picked in the preseason to win their conference, the Jaguars did not commit a single turnover as well. For a quarterback and two offensive lineman playing in their first collegiate games in a torrential downpour of rain, one would consider that a “blessing in the storm.” Quality contributions from two freshmen defensive backs in the secondary (Danny Johnson and Bryan Anderson each getting an interception) provided a ray of sunshine, as Coach Odums will look to take an optimistic approach towards the remainder of this season. “I was happy with how we competed. I’m grateful for the young men, and for the families that trust them being in my hands,” said Odums. “Playing the way they did after the way our day started out shows what kind of young men that we have in our program,” finished Odums.
Southern’s defense gets swamped 45-6 on Cajun Field FELIX CUNNINGHAM III SPORTS EDITOR
Southern’s head coach, Dawson Odums, had high hopes of leaving the Cajun field with a win against University of Louisiana-Lafayette. In front of 36,170 fans, the third largest crowd to ever participate in a Cajun game, the hopes Odums had were thwarted when Southern was dominated 45-6. Each time the Jags encountered the Cajun field; it had a sellout crowd added with a loss. Odums sadly expressed to move forward into the season when he said, “We are eager to put this game behind us.” With the Jags being late due to certification issues for players and also facing stormy showers, it was deemed that the mindset of the team was shifted. “We have to adapt and overcome with any issues that we come upon,” said Odums. Early into the first quarter, the Cajuns opened the scoreboard with three points when kicker, Hunter Stover, kicked a successful 31-yard field goal and it started the flames that would accost them the win. On the next drive, freshman quarterback, Austin Howard, threw a 56-yard pass to redshirt-junior wide receiver, Willie Quinn. After what was seen to be a good decision to gain three points, senior kicker, Kyle Yonke, missed the 29 -yard field goal. On the next possession, Cajuns stumbled upon the endzone when running back,
quarterback, Brooks Haack is 4 for 4 with 27 yards and scored his first touchdown at the end of the game with 45-6. Robinson ended the night successfuly with 112 yards for 5 catches and two touchdowns. Southern goes back to the drawing board when they play Saturday September 6 against NAIA’s Central Methodist at A.W. Mumford Stadium and kickoff is at 6 p.m.
Up Next: SU will face Central Methodist This Saturday 9/6/14 at A.W. Mumford Stadium @6:00 p.m. Join us for Peoples Health Class of 2018 Day Attire: “WHITEOUT”
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Coach Jacobs Prepares to Lead Young, Inexperienced Lady Jags TORRANCE LATHAM SPORTS WRITER With the new season officially underway, Coach Venessa Jacobs and the Southern University women’s volleyball team look to build on the progress of last season to become a serious contender for a championship in the Southwestern Athletic Conference. One of three programs in a three-way tie last season in the SWAC’s Western Division (4-4 in conference play), SU will rely on veteran leadership to guide an extremely youthful team into the 2014 campaign. There are seven new additions that include freshmen/transfers to join the five returning players on the roster. The only classified senior and team captain, Middle Blocker/Outside Hitter Marisol Macias (157 kills in 2013), embraces playing on an inexperienced team and looks to this as an opportunity for a fresh start. “We want to do better than last year. We have a couple of new girls. The chemistry is getting there. We are working hard to change the past,” said Macias. The focus of preseason has been gaining the necessary reps in six-on-six drills, which puts an effort in place the players into an advantageous position of comfort, in preparation for any difficult encounters that may arise during a match throughout the season. “The game is nice when we’re in a (good) system and transiting. However, if we’re not in transition then we want to be really good at winning ugly,” said Coach Jacobs.
Though this year’s team consists mostly of underclassmen, Coach Jacobs will be relying on three sophomores in particular, Setter Phalen Clark (leading the team with 232 kills in 2013), Outside Hitter Diamond Williams (24 kills in 2013), and Melody Malone (36 kills in 2013) to lead the group of optimistic faces that intend to bring a new energy into Seymour Gym this year. “We’re trying to re-brand SU Volleyball. We want more people coming out to the volleyball games. We are trying to make a name for ourselves,” said Clark said. Southern began their season this past weekend for Alabama State’s tournament in Montgomery, Alabama. They lost three of the four matches (against Murray State, Alabama State, and UT-Martin) to start the new season but defeating South Carolina State (3-1) offers promise to a group with no expectations outside of their own locker room. “We’re relying on everybody. We can’t do anything without each other. They’re relying on me to keep it together and I’m relying on them to go out there and take care of business.” finished Jacobs. Next up for the lady Jaguars is a Tuesday night matchup in Hammond against the Southeastern Lady Lions. Following that matchup, they will travel to Lafayette to participate in the University of Louisiana – Lafayette’s tournament over the weekend. The Lady Jags begin SWAC play on September 10 at home when they host the Jackson State Lady Tigers.
Unusable data hinders all athletic programs at Southern FELIX CUNNINGHAM III SPORTS EDITOR At Southern University the still stirring question is rather all sports are banned from postseason play? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Southern is still ineligible for postseason play due to unusable data dated back to 2009. The data included the academic progress rates that the National College Athletic Association assesses so that schools can be eligible to procure championships or play in important bowl games. The NCAA was into academic reform because it encouraged student athletes to stay in school and graduate with good standing. One of the members on the Committee of Academic Performance Chair Walter Harrison discusses what the program does to benefit or penalizes programs. “We established a program that awards or penalizes students based on academic performance alone, therefore it may increase grade-point averages and increase graduation rates,” said Harrison. In order to even compete in the 20142015 postseason, teams must achieve either a 930 multi-year APR or a 940 average over the most recent two years. In Southern’s case, they did not have the
necessary data in approval of the NCAA’s standards. Besides Southern, five other schools in the Southwestern Athletic Conference are sanctioned which are: Alabama A&M (men’s golf), Alabama State (men’s basketball and football), Mississippi Valley State (baseball and football), Prairie View A&M (football), and Arkansas-Pine Bluff (football). The NCAA continues to work closely with the limited resources schools as well as the Historically Black Colleges or Universities as they continue to improve the academic resources of their student athletes. The Athletic Director for Southern University, Dr. William Broussard, and his staff are currently working to overturn the decision yielded by the NCAA. But Broussard could not be reached for comments. According to TSPN sports, Texas Southern President, Dr. John Rudley fired back at the NCAA for not doing their duty to close the gap between socalled low resource HBCUs and wellfunded large universities that would aid in increased academic achievement. “The large, well funded universities have hired large compliance staffs who literally escort athletes to class each day to meet the increased requirements. Our smallest institutions (HBCUs) are severely handicapped without budgets to hire personnel for compliance and
academic support. These increased regulations make it impossible for small schools with specialized needs to compete,” said Rudley. Rudley continued to be disgruntled on the issue the NCAA has placed on HBCUs
times. “I have to be a realist. The current situation that lies before us will come as it may regardless whether we want it or not. It is our responsibility to take care of ourselves on the field and also take care
Joshua Mcknight/DIGEST ART and limited resource schools. “This is a case of one size cannot fit all, and the NCAA needs to continue to look for ways to ensure the needs of its members and our student athletes can be met,” said Rudley. To change face, Southern’s head coach of volleyball, Vanessa Jacobs, wants to change the culture during the difficult
of our business in the classroom,” said Jacobs, “Because when we are getting great grades and gathering wins, we make the opportunity to create a brighter future for ourselves so we may never encounter this problem again.” Southern University athletic department still wait for further updates.
Alliyah Moore/DIGEST
Tyra Brownlee/DIGEST
SU students strap on their roller skates at the Galaxy Skate Night Party held in the F.G Clark Activty Center.
Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonians singing to a member of Sigma Alpha Iota at the Organization Fairal held Wednesday, August 27th in Seymore Gymnasium.
Joshua Mcknight/DIGEST Luke Calvin, member of City Year, happily standing for the cause to #makebetterhappen.
Alliyah Moore/DIGEST SU student shows interst in getting helpful info from the SU Couseling Center Meet & Greet.
Alliyah Moore/DIGEST
Alliyah Moore/DIGEST
Human Jukebox band members perform on Aug 29, 2014 during the Joe Brown Groundbreaking held in New Orleans,
Dancing Doll Danielle Linkford performs during the Joe Brown Gorundbreaking held New Orleans.
Alliyah Moore/DIGEST
Joshua Mcknight/DIGEST Held in the Seymor Gym, the Fall 2014 Organization Fair brought the attention of students of all majors and classifications. Picture above are Marines who were on hand to tell student more about their branch of military service.
SU students Kiera Price, Thomas Ambush, and Kalvin Edmond represent the Southern University Gospel Choir during the Fall 2014 edition of the Organizational Fair.
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Page 8 - Tuesday, September 2, 2014
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Organizational Fair 2014: a success Lavarius Cotton Staff Writer Multiple Organizations of the Southern University’s campus gathered on August 27, 2014, with one goal in mind. That goal was to inform students of their organizations, what they contribute to the campus and to gain support and membership from the students. The atmosphere was set with vibrations of today’s hottest music, informative conversations, and the voices of the students involved in the campus radio station. Organizations included Collegiate 100 for Men and Women, SU’s Natural Hair Club, Nation of Islam Student Association, Sigma Alpha Pi, and the list goes on. The event started at 10a.m. and ended at 2 p.m. giving students a chance to visit in between classes. Student organizations flooded Seymour Gym with tables, booths, posters, candy, video clips and applications in an effort to answer everyone’s questions.
Not only were student recruiters present, but this also gave recruiters a chance to visit other organizations that they were not familiar with. “We started out with a few organizations and now we have over 70 organizations that attend each year,” said Ja’el Gordon, Coordinator for Student Organizations and Campus Involvement. “ For upcoming years I hope to accomplish getting more students and organizations involved and make incoming freshmen aware of the opportunities to become involved on campus,” finished Gordon. Students participating in the event were eager to indulge themselves in what each organization had to offer. “There are lots of organizations, some of which I did not know about. As I visited with each organization, I got great information and even signed up for some of them,” said Tina Mckinley, a 19 yearold therapeutic recreation major from Mobile Alabama.
Joshua Mcknight/ DIGEST The sisters of Psi Phi Beta laugh and smile while explaining to a student the wonders of their organization.
The Collegiate 100 Black Men were on the scene to promote their purpose of mentoring young black men and building great community service. “We encourage young men of Southern University to join Collegiate 100 which is a stepping stone to joining 100 Black men,” said Daejon Derion, a 22-year-old elementary education major from Los Angeles, California. “We are a brotherhood based
on core values that all men should have,” finished Derion. The Nation of Islam Student Association is an organization serving as a support system for students by providing spiritual, moral intellectual guidance and assistance based on the principles from the Nation of Islam. “Our main goal this semester is to inform students of things that are affecting them directly according to economics and
politics,” said Crystal Murphy a 24 year-old graduate student, now employed on campus in the Department of Public Administration, from Baton Rouge. For more information on student organizations or how to get involved on campus, contact Ja’el Gordon, Coordinator for Student Organizations and Campus Involvement at (225) 771-2256.
Gold and Bluez
“Better Than Ever” Courtney Jacobs A&E Editor
Whether academic or artistic, there are many organizations on Southern’s campus that are dedicated to showcasing the many talents of the student body. One of the many recognized organizations would be the Gold-N-Bluez dance team, a staple and monumental force of a dance team in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), which was created by Director of Student Life, Jonas Vanderbilt in 2000. While the Gold-N-Bluez mainly perform during and at the SU basketball games, they also compete in various competitions, work with industry choreographers and dancers across the world, and participate in many community and campus events. “I think this year’s team is going to be great because we had a lot of talent that came in this year,” said Vanderbilt. “That’s actually what caused me to select many more than usual. While we usually have 12-13 dancers, this year we have 18 dancers. We figured since it’s the centennial year, why not try something new,” finished Vanderbilt Vanderbilt also mentioned how basketball dance teams are usually huge, so he’s very excited to work with the ladies that were chosen for this year’s team.
“They are my mixture of The Pussycat Dolls, the Miami Heat, and the New Orleans Pelicans,” said Vanderbilt. As well as being dancers, the ladies of the Gold-N-Bluez are also students, and have to excel, not only in the dance world but in the academic world as well. Alexandra Clark, a 20-year-old junior nursing major and accounting minor from Baton Rouge, has been dancing with the Gold-N-Bluez for one year. Clark is going into her second year as a dancer for the Gold-N-Bluez. “I don’t sleep,” says Clark with a laugh. “I bring my books everywhere with me, and my friends catch me in between and on Sundays. Sundays are normally when I just relax.” Clark is actually really excited for a bigger team this year. Clark thinks the 2014-2015 team will be better with more ladies a part of the team. The audition process is very “grueling,” as Vanderbilt described it. “I try to prepare them for the professional dance world. A lot of my dancers have gone on to be NBA or NFL dancers,” said Vanderbilt. “Day one is like a boot camp. You come in, and we teach you everything that we do. Day two, we immediately judge and cut. As soon as we cut they have to see Gold-N-Bluez on P.10
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Tuesday, September 2, 2014 - Page 9
Master the Boyfriend Look Sage Edgerson Fashion Writer Oversized items have definitely taken over the scene. Girls are running to their boyfriends, best friends, or boo things, closet and are stealing more than basketball shorts. Lately we’ve been obsessed with boyfriend jeans but let’s go back to where the trend started and that is with the boyfriend blazer! The perfect boyfriend blazer has to have the perfect fit, ideal for your bust size (with the right jacket closure), waist
and hip area. You never want to go too oversized because the blazer will drown you, and more buttons like the double breasts style tends to make you appear heavier and create an imbalance of your silhouette. Once you’ve found the perfect blazer, it’s time to build your wardrobe with updated styles with, of course, your blacks and navy blues. Those two colors alone are the super essentials because its goes with pretty much anything! Next maybe one of girl’s favorite things to do after purchasing something new; it’s time to play dress up and create outfits to go with your boyfriend blazer. A match made in outfit heaven is the blazer and or denim combination. Pair it with the obvious classic dark
wash, or add some sassiness with distressed or acid wash jeans; but don’t forget the denim shorts for the casual look! For the perfect fall look, a great pair of leggings, tall riding boots, a cable knit sweater and scarf should be a go to outfit when you’re feeling lazy. For the party scene a boyfriend blazer works too! Over a mini dress, it’s the perfect balance between sexy, sleek and chic. To find more outfit inspiration, British celeb Alexa Chung is great with mixing the basics with the trendy! Next we have the little twin sisters to the boyfriend blazer, the boyfriend Tee and the Boyfriend Button Up. Both are versatile and extra comfy! When styling both garments a little leg never seem to hurt anyone.
Miniskirts and shorts go great in creating a flattering silhouette. If you find the shirt is a little too large, add some gathering by making a small knot. For the tomboy meets girl look pair both shirts with the newest edition to the boyfriend craze, the boyfriend jean and Ked’s. For a going out look, ditch the tee and go with the button up paired with great skinny jeans, boyfriend blazer, sky-high stilettos and great jewelry, and of course make up. Lastly we have the latest trend, and that is the boyfriend jean! Paired effortlessly with girly tops, ladylike heels, and fun accessories, it’s set out to be a must-have for the fall. But some of us aren’t quite sure how to style it. You can dress them up
with a fitted top and high-heeled sandals (like the single sole sandal trend) or just embrace the tomboy-ness with a great tee and low top sneakers like Nike SB’s or Vans. You can also be super trendy and wear a great crop top with a low heels sandal with super distressed boyfriend jeans and wide brim hat. Pinterest is a great place to find more boyfriend inspiration, and Polyvore is great with the visuals and an awesome way to virtually get your practice in before hitting the stores creating outfits with the boyfriend fit in mind. I think mastering these trends can all be so simple, but we’d rather make them harder than the regular.
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Page 10 - Tuesday, September 2, 2014
SOUTHERN DIGEST
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body since 1926
HBC-I-Owe-U! Southern University in the race to receive $50,000 Grand Prize for scholarships Courtney Jacobs A&E Editor
Joshua Sylvester Staff Poet
Woke up one morning on a beautiful day Seems all of my troubles were out of the way The sun in the sky and no clouds in sight And at that point I felt my spirit take flight
HBC-I-Owe-U is the latest program in the Allstate Quotes for Education initiative. According to the website, the initiative was established in 2009 as a way to provide financial support for students who attend historically black college and universities (HBCUs).
sophomore nursing major from Zachary, LA was glad the event was fun instead of uptight. “I think we need to set up events to where it would be fun, and student wouldn’t have to go out of their way to vote,” says Bennett. “I can’t really say, but maybe they can donate a certain percentage of the award to each department,” says Bennett, in
Got out of the bed and walked to the den But at that moment my day took a spin All of a sudden I could hear sirens sounding And someone was knocking on my door pounding The police rushed in the house after kicking down my door They wrestled me to the ground, what was all this for? I asked the officer what did I do? But he just told me that I already knew They threw me in the car without telling me the crime He looked back and told me you will be doing some time They dragged me in the police station but once we were in there A woman who looked familiar to me was sitting in a chair I asked once again what was the purpose of this centering? My charges were armed robbery plus breaking and entering I asked when was this I do not remember The woman in the chair shouted it was last September Once I heard her voice I knew who she was But it still puzzled my mind, what’s with all this buzz She said you know what you did, don’t even contest it You’re as guilty as charged just c’mon and confess it I asked her why would I take something from you After all the things that we have been through She said it’s hard to say without me falling apart But.... You are guilty of stealing my heart........ J-Sly @Slylyfe
Cast your Vote for Southern U.
Courtney Jacobs/ DIGEST 19 year old sophomore Tevente Bennett helps fellow sophomore Jada Robinson vote during the voting party for Allstate’s HBC-I-Owe-U contest in the Smith Brown Memorial Student Union’s computer lab.
“When the initiative’s 2014 goals are met, Allstate will have donated more than half a million dollars in scholarships for HBCU students over the past six years and contributed an additional $150,000 to institutions that have won voting challenges,” the website stated. In an effort to support the initiative, the sophomore class held a voting party for this program in the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union’s computer lab on last Tuesday. Students all over the country are voting and for a good reason. The HBCU with the most votes will win a $50,000 donation to its university scholarship fund. Kadasjah McMillon, a 19 year-old urban forestry major who also serves as the 2014-2015 Miss Sophomore, was one of the many students in attendance at the voting event. “This event was basically a way to get the students and school unified, and to also show school spirit,” says McMillon. “I think it’s awesome that Allstate is willing to donate to an HBCU since we don’t get recognized as much as other institutions. Our main goal with this event is to get the university to win the $50,000 donation.” To show additional support, Shanice Sam, the 84th Miss Southern University and A&M College voted in support of the scholarship. Tevonte Bennett, a 19 year-old
response as to what he would like to see the $50,000 be used for. “I would just love to see it used to its best ability to help the university in any way possible.” In addition to the HBC-I-Owe-U program, Allstate has partnered with Tuskegee alum Tom Joyner, who founded the Tom Joyner Foundation. The vision of the Tom Joyner Foundation, according to the website, is that “All students deserve the chance to attend college so that they can succeed in life.” Therefore, it is the vision of the Tom Joyner Foundation to provide programming that arranges diverse academic opportunities to students aspiring to or currently attending HBCUs, regardless of social or economic status. You can also cast your vote for Southern University and A&M College. The HBC-I-Owe-U program ends on November 30th, 2014. Voters can vote only once a day per email address. To vote, go to www. allstatequotesforeducation.com and follow the directions given. Visit the same website for more information on the HBC-I-Owe-U program and the Tom Joyner Foundation. With 21% of the vote, Southern University is currently in second place. Let’s get and keep Southern University number one until the end of the contest!
Gold -N- Bluez from P. 8
learn a second dance. This year we started out with 66, then dropped down to the top 22.” Clark also agrees that the audition process is very nerve wracking, along with newcomer A’Daja Magee, an 18-year-old freshmen psychology major from Bogalusa, LA. “I was extremely nervous! I think people assume that since this is my second year that this will be a cake walk, and that’s not the case,” said Clark. “It’s new choreography for everyone, and there’s always a possibility that someone will outperform you.” “Even though I’ve been dancing a while tryouts are always nerve wrecking,” says Magee. “Performing at the mall was different for me because I’ve never had to do anything like that before for a tryout, but once they called my number it felt really good.” Vanderbilt stressed how the Gold-N-Bluez are a separate entity from the Dancing Dolls. “The Dancing Dolls stick to tradition. The Gold-n-Bluez are more edgy and have more of a repertoire than the Dancing Dolls,” says Vanderbilt. Although the Dancing Dolls and Gold-N-Bluez are separate, there is an understood comradery among the groups. Connor McGrew, a 21 year old senior psychology major from Mobile, Alabama, danced with the Gold-N-Bluez for two years before moving on to Dancing Dolls. McGrew is entering her second year dancing as the Dancing Dolls. “Dancing Dolls and Gold-NBluez are two separate teams with two separate styles,” says McGrew. “We understand that we are two different teams with two different purposes, however, we are all in support of one another. Not only do we have love for the university, we share the same love for dance.” All the dancers are looking forward to the year with this new and improved team. Magee, also known as “Sunshyne” by the dancers, is just looking forward to bonding with the girls. “I’m looking forward to getting close to my rookie sisters, and the veterans. Just bonding,” finished Magee. The Gold-N-Bluez have many plans for this year, so be on the lookout for them as they continue to dance their hearts away!
To vote for SU in the Allstate HBC I-Owe-U Contest scan the QR Code Above
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365 Jag, Is It Worth It?
Andranea Pearly Staff Writer
As an incoming freshman, I attended the third session of the orientation program. 365 Jag confirmed that I had chosen the perfect university. Like all things, orientation had its pros and cons. I’ll start with the cons. There was a ridiculous amount of lectures; they were long, boring and repetitive. A majority of the students began to stay in their rooms until the fun or interesting things started. The speakers all gave great advice and information about our beloved Southern University, but it was not the information and advice students wanted to hear. We had questions like “Why are freshman not allowed to bring their cars on campus?,” “How much do books cost? ,” and “How to buy game tickets?” On the positive side, 365 Jag was exciting, fun, and full of school spirit. Orientation gave me a small slice of what college life was about. Living in a dorm suite with eight strangers for four days was the most exciting part. I
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can’t speak for everyone but I had an amazing roommate and amazing suitemates to go along with that. The only downfall about living in a dorm was how cold it was, but if it had not been for the rooms being cold, we wouldn’t have known that “chilling in the circle” was actually a thing. After the first time we stepped outside and saw our other classmates mingling with each other, we joined them. The first day of orientation we learned the “HBCU” song and dance from the university ambassadors. I vividly remember having “Mayberry lunch” for the first time. The famous red beans and fried chicken confirmed that I was most defiantly at the best school in all of Louisiana. The second day of orientation wasn’t the best, but the pajama party made the day worth while. Seeing my classmates dancing and having fun really made me feel at home and excited to be a part of Jag Nation. The third day of orientation was the talent show; I could not believe how talented some of the students were. One girl who might have been named Morgan sung “Hero” by Whitney Houston so beautifully, everyone gave her a standing ovation. The last day of orientation was move out day, I said goodbye to my new found friends and anticipated my official move in day on August 10th. I can honestly say the overall 365 Jag experience is something everyone who enrolls in Southern University should attend.
Bad Girl Hype
Negative or Positive? Keyaira R. Franklin
Staff Writer
The trend of being a “bad girl” is spreading throughout today’s generation. Is this phrase coming from music, history, or street language? Many people view this term in a negative light and/or positive light. Throughout history the term has turned from sleazy to sexy. In the past people refereed to women as “girls” to degrade them. According to dictionary.com the word bad is defined as not good in any manner or having wicked character and the world “girl” is defined as a female dog. Therefore when you call the next female a bad “girl” you are calling her a wicked female dog. Remind yourself that as women we should value ourselves. On the other note I understand why we as women allow this foolery to continue. Our generation focuses on entertainment and what is being perceived. As I looked into the definition of bad “girl” I only received a compelling feedback. According to Urban Dictionary a bad “girl” is a self-respected, strong female who has everything together. Throughout entertainment many artist have decided to place this phrase within their songs. A matter of fact the first time I heard this phrase it was actually from a woman. The term was by rapper Trina when she called her self the “Da Baddest (you know what) in the album entitled Da Baddest “Chick”. She made the term
sound so appealing that a large selection of women that they actually wanted to claim themselves as this expression. In later forms of music artists were taking Trina’s expression of a bad”girl” and running with it. Webbie , a rapper from Baton Rouge, entitled his song Bad “Chick” and featured Trina. His lyrics made women feel powerful behind that they were. Bad “chicks” became independent, classy, and street savvy within the lyrics of these songs. The term bad “girl” has been going strong since then. Artist has switch the terminology of this phrase from degrading to sexy and confident. However I disagree with the uplift of this phrase. The last time I checked in the girls (future women) were being raised to look up to queen and princesses on Disney. However today we seemed to have forgot that we are queens. We as women would rather call each other this vulgar phrase instead of lifting each other up with other powerful respectful terminology. We allow people of entertainment corrupt the mines of our generation. We accept the term to be vocalized to us without any consequence. The real question is why would you call yourself something that everyone could not call you. Think about it if a random man walked up to you and called you a “girl” how would you feel? Yet you call other woman and yourself this phrase all the time. Nonetheless you as women can make your decision to stay with trend or change the future of this phrase. We are all queens at the end of the day.
Tuesday, September 2, 2014 - Page 11
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“BROTHA MANRISE UP!” Sharita Sims is needed, let us not omit the times Staff Writer
Single black mothers, church homes, rap music, Jordan’s, and Vh1’s Love & Hip-Hop are a few things that might come to mind when talking about what bears influence on the black community. One gargantuan factor that people often seem to disregard is the weight that the black man himself holds in the advancement and downfall within our race. In the media there is hardly ever anything positive being said about him unless he’s an entertainer, athlete, or fighting for his country. Seemingly though, we’ve accepted this and we ensure him that he doesn’t need to be more than that and that real values and qualities of a man are only fantasies. Let me be the first to say it aloud... We need our black men to be kings once and forevermore! We need the strength and leadership of a man to help rebuild the unity that we lost along the way. We need fathers, sons, and brothers to step up and be who your people need you to be. You’re no use to us shot up and dead or incarcerated. It can be argued that most were never taught to be men so they lack certain skills and qualities necessary to lead... I beg to differ. At one point in every man’s life he realizes that he is a man and being so lies responsibilities. When he realizes the responsibilities he posses, should he also fathom the means to fulfill them. Easier said than done? A common excuse when the objective has not been tried hard enough. Nevertheless, the weak lineage that black men have had to follow does present it’s challenges. Every generation has had to learn from scratch what it means to be a strong man but it is not impossible. As a man, drive and determination should come naturally. Black men must find it in their souls to step up to the plate and navigate a resolution for our people; enduding all of the obstacles that the world throws at them just because they fear the dominance that comes with being a man and black. If reflection
when blacks were considered 3/5 of a person in these United States... When black men had to watch their wives, mothers, sisters, cousins, and daughters get dragged off by their owners to be abused and rapped. There is much to be reminded of if need be for my brothers to open their eyes and finally come together for some reinvention of our livelihood. Let us not sweep one very critical matter under the rug… respect. The respect that black men for the past couple of generations have lacked for black women. The lack of respect and love that little black girls receive from their fathers are what makes them comfortable later in life being in relationships with black men who also lack love and respect for them. Black women, if no one else, need love, respect, and security from their men; without it, emotional trauma manifests. Women are strong indeed but the influence that a man holds over them, regardless if women agree or will admit, reflects in the way they live their everyday lives. A woman will follow the lead of a good man but that’s not happening because our black men are generally degrading and/or ignoring them. There are arguments about the issue such a as black men quoting that they disrespect black women because black women disrespect themselves. To be a man is to respect a women, regardless of her flaws. Not to mention the very undeniable aspect of human flaws essentially... no one is exempt. So that argument alone is not suitable enough. If black men stop attending to the absurdity of some actions black women display I’m sure it will have an abrupt ending. No one can love a black man more than a black woman can, if you let her. And men, the way I see it, you’re living life just going though the motions. If we as a people are going to reach higher grounds, the motions won’t cut it. Starting now, let’s reevaluate and reinvent for a more speedy progression. We can’t do it without you brothers and as your sisters, we genuinely don’t want to.
@southern digest
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Page 12 - September 2, 2014
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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 of your resume for every company or organization with whom you plan to speak. Portfolio/Briefcase: To store your resumes, pad, and pen as well as the literature and Business cards you will 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. Dress in business attire: A suit is appropriate for both men and women, as is a shirt and tie for men and a blouse and skirt/dress slacks for women. Pick up the DRESSING FOR THE INTERVIEW tip sheet in the Career Services Office.
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.
Stay tuned for more Career Day Tips Sponsored by the Southern University Office of Career Services