★ BREAKING ★ SEE EDITORS’ PICKS FOR THE FINAL FOUR
Today’s SGA election has been postponed to Monday due to unforeseeable circumstances. Stay tuned to www.ncatregister.com for the latest updates.
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THE A&T
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REGISTER VOLUME LXXXV NO. 20
MARCH 28, 2012
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Panelists discuss hazing culture
REMEMBERING TRAYVON
SYYMONE KIDD Contributor
Hoodies and Skittles fill Gibbs for Martin LILLIANE LONG Contributor
More than 200 hundred Aggies — students and faculty alike banded — together in front of Gibbs Hall on Monday to remember Trayvon Martin. Led by the university’s History Scholars club, everyone laid face down and stood up on, and around the grass area in front of Gibbs to listen to 911 tapes made by witnesses to Martin’s death. “It could have been me, I’m wearing a hoody today and I don’t think I look threatening, but someone else may think I do,” said Derrick Newkirk a sophomore business management major from Fayetteville, N.C. “So I’m here to support so we can get justice for Trayvon, and to let his family know that they aren’t in this alone because this act was the result of a lot of things. I think that, though it’s an unfortunate event, it’s really going to bring a lot of people together.” The students were asked to wear hoodies and lay in silence, some with skittles and Arizona ice tea at hand, to represent Martin lying dead after
being shot by Zimmerman. “I want them[students] to take away the feeling that something needs to change, and that they have to make the change” said Tiffany Holloman, a senior history major from Ahoskie, N.C., as well as the organizer and vice-president of History Scholars. “I want the world to see that most people of color are good loyal members of society and not what they have us pictured to be. The civil rights movement is over but the civil rights revolution is just beginning.” Tears ran down Holloman’s face as she hugged her wife, members of the History scholars club, and her History Scholars advisor Tiffany Quaye. “I didn’t expect the turn out to be like this at first. When I first told my wife about it I thought it would be just she and I down there in the grass,” said Holloman. “I mentioned it to the history scholars and they were like ‘yeah let’s do it’ and all in a short amount of time they started passing out
PHOTOS BY KENNETH L. HAWKINS, JR. • THE A&T REGISTER
(TOP) ALMOST 200 A&T students laid in remembrance of Florida’s slain teen Trayvon Martin on the lawn in front of Gibbs Hall on Monday March 25, 2012. (ABOVE) TIFFANY HOLLOMAN, leader at the A&T Student rally to “Stand up or Lay Down” for Trayvon Martin holds her bag of Skittles up in remembrance of the teen who was killed one month earlier. (LEFT) GREENSBORO COUNCILWOMAN T. DIANNE BELLAMY-SMALL supports A&T students at the rally in remembrance for Trayvon Martin in her Hoodie with a bag of Skittles pinned to her shirt.
See MARTIN on Page 2
The International Civil Rights Center and Museum along with N.C. A&T held a program on Saturday entitled, ‘Hazing: A Membership Ritual or Human Rights Issue?’ This program was a part of the In the News: Headlines and Headliners, a monthly current events forum that is funded by American Express Philanthropy. The programs moderator, Sheeka Strickland, a reporter/ anchor for Fox 8 News and WGHP, guided the main topics of discussion, which included the dangers of hazing to society, the various types of hazing, the pattern of violence, and media technology involvement. A group of panelists were present to address the topic of hazing, give their own definitions, views and opinions. Panelist Judy Rashid, Associate vice-chancellor for students and dean of students here at A&T said, “There is a distinctive difference between initiation or intake, and hazing. Hazing is a crime, it is a criminal act, and it is not a right of passage.” Others on the panel were: Leigh Hebbard - director of activities, athletics, and driver’s education for Guilford County Schools, Sharon Cook - A&T’s director of the social work program, Detective E.L. Cuthbertson of the Greensboro Police Department, Alexandra Marchesano - director of campus activities and programs at UNCG, and A&T graduate student John Hunt III. Hunt pointed out that hazing is not limited to college campuses or athletics and organizations, but also is present in high school, the military and in the work force. Hazing is defined as acts of physical and mental abuse. It See HAZING on Page 2
Mr. and Miss A&T candidates showcase talents KAYLA MCLAUGHLIN
CONTESTANTS for Mr. A&T Reginald Johnson and Cameron Moore standing after the question and answer portion at the MR. and Ms. A&T pageant on Sunday, March 25. 2012.
form portion, the contestants introduced themselves and explained their visions for the campus. The Miss A&T candidates include, Megan Mills, Kibibi Hawkins, Precious Bradley, Michele Delgado, and Catherine Hamlin, while the Mr. A&T candidates include Reginald Johnson, and Cameron Moore.
At the start of the program, the contestants entered the stage joyfully dancing to Chris Brown’s “Forever.” During the dance they took brief intermissions to introduce themselves individually. “I want to have a true impact on students and serve them
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BLOOD DRIVE COMES TO CAMPUS
TRAYVON MARTIN
FINAL FOUR BREAKDOWN
LETOYA LUCKETT MAKES VISIT
Keep up with breaking news on our Web site. Slideshows, videos and more are available online.
The Red Cross club hosts their third blood drive of this school year.
Word editor Trumaine McCaskill discusses the recent case of Trayvon Martin.
After 64 games it’s down to the final four teams. See if your team is still in it.
R&B sensation Letoya Luckett sings for Aggies during Art & Soul.
Contributor
The candidates for Mr. & Miss A&T presented themselves to the student body Sunday in Harrison Auditorium in an attempt to reel in votes for today’s election. The pageant included three portions: platform, talent, and formal wear. During the plat-
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PHOTO BY TRACY DURANDIS • THE A&T REGISTER
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The A&T Register | ncatregister.com | Wednesday, March 28, 2012
MARTIN From page 1
inBRIEF
fliers.” Among those in attendance were various news stations such as MyFox8, News 14 Carolina, and WXII12 as well as councilwoman T. Diane Bellamy-Small who said she wanted individuals to know that she is proud of A&T and the city of Greensboro for showing that as a community, we are one like mind when it comes to obtaining justice and illustrating that this case affects everyone. “This was done in the A&T tradition: started by a few and picked up by a lot,” said Quaye. “It was very encouraging, to know that people still have a voice and are still in tuned and care about what is going on because we are all Trayvon Martin.” Aggies weren’t the only ones requesting justice for Martin in the Greensboro area. Community members all around Greensboro stood, laid, and sent bags of Skittles by the hundreds to the Stanford police department all in honor of Martin. “Its great that people were so determined to take a stand for justice through all obstacles” said Brian ‘B DAHT’ McLaughlin a 102 JAMZ personality and one of the organizers of the 102 JAMZ rally. “We ran out of free stamps and people still got in the long lines and bought their own to send off these empty bags of
Criminal justice dept. to host national convention
PAGEANT From page 1 while in office. I am approachable, open-minded and dedicated to pushing our university and Aggies to higher standards” said Moore. Jasmine Gurley, current Miss A&T, opened the pageant by introducing herself and giving a short speech about the institution and candidates. As a way to get the audience familiar with candidates, they were characterized by personality traits. Contestant number one for Miss A&T, Mills, was introduced as the “American Girl.” Contestant number two, Hawkins, was introduced as “The Smiler.” Contestant number three, Bradley, was introduced as “Miss Bubbly.” Contestant number four, Delgado, was introduced as “Miss Versatile.” Lastly, Contestant number five, Hamlin, was introduced as “Miss Lady.” For Mr. A&T, Contestant number one, Johnson was introduced as “The Trendsetter.” His opponent, contestant number two,
HAZING From page 1 may function as part of initiation ritual into a secret society, military unit, athletic team, fraternity or sorority, and gang. Hazing in non-initiation contexts has also been seen as acts of bullying and intimidation, particularly against “outsiders.” “Long term effects of hazing are physical and sociological,” said Cook. People who engage in hazing know right from wrong and the tragedy is that knowledge of right and wrong is discredited because of acceptance and the power differential that is tied to
PHOTO BY KENNETH L. HAWKINS, JR • THE A&T REGISTER
TIFFANY HOLLOMAN leader at the A&T Student ralley to “Stand up or Lay Down” for Trayvon Martin lays down in remmeberance of the teen who was killed one moneth earlier, held on the campus of A&T Monday March 25, 2012.
Skittles. That says a lot about our community. ” The rally set out to send empty bags of Skittles to the Stanford, Fla. police department on March 23 to symbolize the emptiness that Martin’s parents must feel now that their son is gone. Martin was the 17-year-old teenage male killed in Stanford, Fla. in mid-February by accused shooter George Zimmerman, a neighborhood watchman that, though Martin was unarmed, claimed self-defense under Florida’s “stand your ground” law. Zimmerman is now out on bail and no charges have been filed against him for the shooting; a
phenomenon that is upsetting many around the country. “My friends and I went out and we bought ten bags of Skittles” said Dream Davis a sophomore pre-nursing major from Ashville, N.C. at the 102JAMZ rally. “We just came to send out our bags so we can be a part because its happening in 2012 and its ridiculous that justice was not served. What are skittles? We buy Skittles and we just eat them ourselves. What does it cost to send them off to make a difference?” - lrlong@ncat.edu and follow us on Twitter @ATRegister
Moore, was introduced as “The Golden Boy.” During the talent portion each hopeful brought something different to the stage. Mills performed a piece that included ballet and modern dance. Hawkins presented a call and response speech entitled “Do You Know What You Want?” Bradley did a tribute to her deceased mother and sang a gospel song. Delgado played a ballad on the piano while a slide presentation of her journey from freshman year played in the background. Hamlin performed Maya Angelou’s “Phenomenal Woman.” Contestant number one for Mr. A&T, Johnson, also performed a ballet and modern dance to a song entitled “We Are More Than Conquerors.” Moore followed with a monologue from the movie “A Time to Kill” that encompassed law and injustice. The formal wear portion of the pageant gave the contestants the opportunity to exhibit poise and grace. During this section the contestants were dressed in
formal wear and given one question to answer about themselves. They were asked things such as “Is graduating from an HBCU a prerequisite or an accomplishment?” as well as “Is it better to be beautiful on the inside or the outside?” “I really came out and tried to perform at the best of by ability to prove to students that I can be a great representation of them and the university. I hope they did learn something about me and recognize that I am a regular student just like them who is trying to do great things,” said Delgado. Camille Wilkerson, a junior sports science major, thought the pageant was successful. “I think it was very organized and gave an opportunity for the candidates to express who they are to the student body, but I feel like the questions should have been more difficult.” -klmclaug@ncat.edu and follow us on Twitter @ATRegister
hazing. Power differential explained by Cook, is groups of people that have varying levels of power. “I feel as I can do this to you because of my level of power and once you get to my level what do you decide to do with the power?” One of the biggest questions of the night was “Who and what is to blame for the continuing act of hazing?” Another was “what is the solution to fix the problem of hazing that has spread over decades and centuries?” Panelists expressed that generations of tradition and mainstream media were to blame for
the continuing acts of hazing. They also gave suggestions of solutions to fix the problem such as to educate, have candid conversation, watch subliminal seduction, and for adults to listen to the young people who are actually emerged in the situations. The International Civil Rights Center and Museum’s next event will be a Justice Rally for Trayvon Martin with speakers, spoken word, and music. It will be held in the American Express Auditorium Friday, March 30 from 6:00- 8:00 p.m. -sckidd@ncat.edu and follos us on Twitter @ATRegister
10:30 a.m. Laurel St - Expired Registration Citation
Closed/Arrest
theBLOTTER March 21 2:35 a.m. Aggie Suites E Weapons Violation Closed/Arrest 9:00 p.m. Aggie Village 1 Damage to Property Closed/Info. March 22 11:15 a.m. East Market Street Service of Warrants Closed/Arrest 3:40 p.m. Gibbs Hall Service of Warrants Closed/Arrest March 23
6:15 p.m. Harrison Auditorium - Vehicle Accident Closed/Cleared March 24 1:50 a.m. Aggie Terrace - Domestic Dispute Student Referral 2:05 a.m. Benbow Rd. - Ficticious Plates Citation 2:43 a.m. Benbow Rd. - DWI Closed/Arrest 1:17 p.m. Vanstory Hall - Simple Assault/ Disturbance
10:30 p.m. Vanstory Hall - Drug Violation Student Referral March 25 2:16 a.m. Luther St. PVA - Assault Further Investigation 11:15 p.m. Morrow Hall - Alcohol Violation Closed/Arrest March 26 9:30 a.m. Cooper Hall - Call for Service Closed/Info
On April 3 the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice (NABCJ) will have an event hosted by Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice in Stallings Ballroom from 10 a.m to 1 p.m. NABCJ was founded in 1974. The organization has acted as an advocate for the interests of African Americans and has provided support for professional development.
The event will include NABCJ members networking, giving presentations and recruiting members. They will also announce that the association will financially sponsor registrations for students who wish to attend their annual meeting in New Orleans in July 2012. Questions can be directed to the Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice at 336-285-2046.
Phillips elected chair of human relations comm. The Human Relations Commission has named Wendell F. Phillips Chairman of the Division of University Advancement on March 7. Phillips currently serves as North Carolina A&T State University’s director of state and community relations. The Human Relations Commission’s mission is to improve the quality of life for Greensboro residents by encouraging fair treatment and promoting mutual understanding and re-
spect among all people. Phillips has a long list of service ranging from the Maryland House of Delegates to the Civil Rights committee. He has also had commentaries published in BET.com and other newspapers across this nation. He is a co-author of “Atonement: The Million Man March” and appeared as one of the “Golden Lords” in Robert Townsend’s 1993 motion picture, “Meteor Man.”
A&T and Shiloh Baptist Church to host health fair A free community health fair is being put on by N.C. A&T Food and Nutritional Sciences Program and Greensboro’s Shiloh Baptist Church on Saturday, March 31, at the church’s Otis L. Hairston Family Life Enrichment Center, 1210 S. Eugene St., 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. The days theme is “Getting Fit in 2012” and will begin with a 1.5 mile health walk, 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. The rest of the days events
are as followed: Ask-a-Doctor, and Ask-a-Dietitian – one-onone health & nutrition consultations; Screening for blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure, sickle cell, and more; Children’s workshops, health and wellness themed; “Body in Motion” outdoor activities for adults & children; Healthy foods cooking demonstrations/presentations; Exhibitions, including a fire truck and raffled items each hour.
WEDNESDAY
28
Sophomore Class Meeting Merrick Auditorium 6 p.m.
Metro Aggies Hometown Stereotypes Proctor Auditorium 7:45 p.m.
THURSDAY
29
NABA Leadership Explosion Exhibit Hall 6 p.m.
SUAB Speeches & Full Body Meeting Stallings Ballroom 6 p.m.
Aggies & Poets Auditions
Memorial Student Union Room 211 7 p.m.
NY/NJ Full Body Meeting Marteena Room 312 7:30 p.m.
FRIDAY
Health Fair
30
Stallings Ballroom 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
SATURDAY
31
UNC-EP Study Abroad Orientations Stallings Ballroom 9 a.m.
Follow the Sugar Canes: Dances of Survival Harrison Auditorium 7:30 p.m.
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The A&T Register | ncatregister.com | Wednesday, March 28, 2012
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Blood drive fails to draw in crowd SGA presidential hopefuls debate future plans Courtney matthews Contributor
Exhibit Hall was filled with a mix of phlebotomists — people who draw and process blood and nurses on Thursday, as the Red Cross Club hosted the third blood drive for the 2011-2012 school year. Although the club hoped to reach a lot of students, Portia Queen a senior elementary education major and the president of the Red Cross club said there was not as big turn out as expected. A goal was set for 30 units of blood, and it was not met. Why was the goal not reached? The bottom line is that the students just did not show up according to Queen. There was enough staff, enough supplies, and plenty of food and water stocked in the canteen area. “One pint saves three lives or six babies,” she said. According to nurse Robin Lee at the blood drive site, collecting blood is very important because it helps treat several ailments such as sickle cell anemia — a disease that affects many African-Americans. There are about 80,000 people in the U.S. that are affected by the sickle cell anemia disease. Of those 80,000 people 90 percent of them are African-American. A person with sickle cell anemia needs about 100 pints of blood each year to live. Two people with similar characteristics in their blood decreases complications
kimberly fields Contributor
Photo by Tracy Durandis • The A&t Register
Stephanie Cuthberston senior gives blood at the Blood Drive on Thursday March 22, 2012 in Exhibit Hall.
with a blood transfusion. This means that African-Americans need African-American blood in order to make blood transfusion as successful as possible. “With a disease such as sickle cell anemia affecting this community as it does, it is important that the African American community come out in the masses to to donate,” said Lee. The Red Cross Club promoted as much as they could within their means. They posted flyers, did dorm storms and even promoted at a table in the union prior to the day of the blood drive. Not only did they promote the blood drive at the table, they also set up appointments to make it easier for students to
get in and out on the day of the drive. “People who made appointments did not show up for them, even though we sent out emails to remind them,” said Queen. Donating blood is a seemingly easy task according to Jayvon Johnson, a liberal studies major. “Giving blood is important and every individual should try to donate,” he said. Johnson donated blood because his father is a liver transplant candidate and would need the blood; he also simply just gets a good feeling from it. The requirements are vast and specific, so specific that only five percent of the popula-
tion is eligible to donate. Nurses ask if a donor has any tattoos that were done outside of a professional parlor. If the answer is yes, then they are ineligible to donate for the fear of contamination and unsanitary practices. Also if tattoos are done out of state, you are not eligible to donate. Johnson has 11 tattoos, and said they are all done professionally. He says he saw the flyer in Gibbs Hall and decided to donate. He shared that donating was painless, and an easy process and wondered why more didn’t attempt to such a simple act of kindness. -cnmatthews@ncat.edu and follow us on Twitter @ATRegister
ncatregister.com
just do it.
The Student Government Association presidential candidates met last week to debate their platforms and persuade students to vote for them in today’s election. DaVonta Woods, a senior public relations and psychology major from Charlotte debated Allahquan Tate, a junior architecture engineering major from Fayetteville. Woods and Tate answered an array of questions dealing with the student constitution as well as their platforms. In an effort to get the word out to students, both candidates agreed that dorm storming,
he believes the pride is not dead, he said it needs to be revamped because students have begun to take pride in the wrong things instead of more academic achievements and supporting all of our athletic teams and student organizations. “My administration will be a defibrillator,” Tate said. “We will give Aggie Pride a jolt and bring it back to life.” Tate also has experience under his belt within the SGA as well as with Aggie Students Ambassadors, Housing and Residence Life leadership, Auxiliary Services and AmeriCorps. He said that his involvement with these organiza-
Photo by Kenneth L. Hawkins, Jr. • The A&T Register
SgA Presidential Candidates Allahaquan Tate (above) and Davonta Woods (below) answer question from The A&T Register editorial baord staff on Wednesday, March 21, 2012.
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talking to students walking on campus and holding informal meetings in different locations such as the cafeteria are all good measures to take to reach the students and get them involved. Woods stands on the platform of uniting the entities and sectors within the SGA and helping to make Aggies equipped to compete on a global level. Along with his SGA involvement, Woods has experience as a resident assistant, an Aggie Student Ambassador and a founding member of The Charlotte Seven which helps to assist with retention. He said that his willingness to help and big heart have groomed him for this position and sets him apart from past SGA presidents and his opponent, Tate. “I didn’t choose this position, this position chose me,” he said. Woods slogan is “by any means necessary” and one thing he says he will push by any means necessary is programs to assist with retention. He wants to implement programs to assist students to make sure they are able to continue their education here at North Carolina A&T. Woods wants to make sure the student body knows that the SGA cares and has an open office. “You are a part of SGA as much as I am. The only difference is that I have a title,” he said. Tate said he wants to revive Aggie Pride. Although
tions has prepared him for this position and his genuine passion for A&T and personable character set him apart from past Presidents and his opponent. “I never wanted to be anything other than North Carolina A&T student body President,” he said. “This is something that’s been nesting and festering in my brain for a long time now.” Victoria Griffin, a freshman computer science major from Chicago, attended the debate and said she was glad she had the chance to hear the candidate’s points of view and what they could and would bring to the table. Griffin added that the question she walked in hoping to get answered was what they would each do for the school if elected and what they would change within the SGA and she was satisfied with their responses. When asked which side was she leaning toward after hearing what they had to say she said, “I became split because they both made good points and both have a lot to offer.” Woods said that his willingness to help and ability to get results is why you should vote for him while Tate believes that his passion, skills, tools and dedication is what makes him right for the job. Voting is today in Exhibit Hall located in the Student Union or you could vote online from 8a.m until 6 p.m. -knfields@ncat.edu and follow us on Twitter @ATRegister
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The A&T Register | ncatregister.com | Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Fight claims put Fla. teen’s side on defense CURT ANDERSON & MIKE SCHNEIDER Associated Press
SANFORD, Fla. — The family and supporters of slain Florida teenager Trayvon Martin found themselves on the defensive Monday following revelations he had been suspended for marijuana before he was shot to death by a neighborhood watch volunteer. Police also confirmed a report that the watchman claimed Martin was the aggressor, punching him in the nose and smacking his head on a sidewalk. Martin, 17, was suspended by Miami-Dade County schools because traces of marijuana were found in a plastic baggie in his book bag, family spokesman Ryan Julison said. Martin was serving the suspension when he was shot Feb. 26 by George Zimmerman, who was patrolling the neighborhood that Martin was visiting with his father. Martin’s mother, Sybrina Fulton, and family attorneys blamed police for leaking the information about the marijuana and Zimmerman’s claim about the attack to the news media in an effort to demonize the teenager. “They killed my son and now they’re trying to kill his reputation,” Fulton told reporters. The Sanford Police Department insisted there was no authorized release of the new information but acknowledged there may have been a leak. City Manager Norton Bonaparte Jr. said it would be investigated and the person responsible could be fired. Martin family attorney Benjamin Crump said the link be-
tween the youth and marijuana should have no bearing on the probe into his shooting death. State and federal agencies are investigating, with a grand jury set to convene April 10. “If he and his friends experimented with marijuana, that is completely irrelevant,” Crump said. “What does it have to do with killing their son?” The state Department of Juvenile Justice confirmed Monday that Martin does not have a juvenile offender record. The information came after a public records request by The Associated Press. Zimmerman, 28, claimed he shot Martin in self-defense and has not been arrested. Because Martin was black and Zimmerman has a white father and Hispanic mother, the case has become a racial flashpoint that has civil rights leaders and others leading a series of protests in Sanford and around the country. Meanwhile, the Orlando Sentinel reported that Zimmerman told police he lost Martin in the neighborhood he regularly patrolled and was walking back to his vehicle when the youth approached him from behind. The two exchanged words, Zimmerman said, and Martin then punched him in the nose, jumped on top of him and began banging his head on a sidewalk. Zimmerman said he began crying for help; Martin’s family thinks it was their son who was crying out. Witness accounts differ and 911 tapes in which the voices are heard are not clear. The Sanford police statement said the newspaper story was “consistent” with evidence turned over to prosecutors. Earlier, city officials named
a 23-year veteran of the Sanford police department as acting chief. The appointment of Capt. Darren Scott, who is AfricanAmerican, came days after Chief Bill Lee, who is white, temporarily stepped down as the agency endured withering criticism over its handling of the case. “I know each one of you — and everyone watching — would like to have a quick, positive resolution to this recent event,” Scott told reporters. “However, I must say we have a system in place, a legal system. It may not be perfect but it’s the only one we have. I urge everyone to let the system take its course.” The Sanford City Commission held its first meeting Monday since giving Lee a no confidence vote, which led to his ouster. Martin’s parents both addressed the panel, urging them to take steps to arrest Zimmerman. More than 500 people crowded into the meeting, which was moved from City Hall to the Sanford Civil Center. “We are asking for justice,” said Tracy Martin, the teenager’s father. Civil rights leader Al Sharpton warned commissioners that Sanford risked becoming a 21st century version of the civil rights struggle in the South during the 1960s. Sharpton said Martin’s parents endured “insults and lies” Monday over reports that their son attacked Zimmerman. Outside the commission meeting, several thousand people carried signs, rallied and marched in Martin’s support. Organizers said some 2 million signatures had been collected on an online petition demanding
Photo by associated press
tracey martin, center, speaks at the Sanford City Commission meeting with Trayvon’s mother, Sybrina Fulton, left, and the family lawyer, Benjamin Crump.
Zimmerman’s arrest. “It seems like the police did not do the normal things they should have done. But that’s going to have to take its own process now,” said the Rev. Marilyn Beecher, a Methodist minister who came from Daytona Beach to attend the rally. “It’s important that we all stand for justice and that the community leaders know that this is not going to be overlooked.”
Martin’s family spoke at the rally attended by at least a thousand people. Tracy Martin called the crowd his “backbone.” “As I see the crowd here, I see Trayvon all over,” Tracy Martin said. “I know he is saying to me, ‘Dad, I’m proud.’” Also Monday, an attorney for Martin’s mother confirmed that she filed trademark applications for two slogans containing her son’s name: “Justice for Tray-
von” and “I Am Trayvon.” The applications said the trademarks could be used for such things as DVDs and CDs. The trademark attorney, Kimra Major-Morris, said in an email that Fulton wants to protect intellectual property rights for “projects that will assist other families who experience similar tragedies.” Asked if Fulton had any profit motive, the attorney replied: “None.”
FAMU emails detail hazing warnings to school officials dating to back 2007 GARY FINEOUT
Associated Press
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The father of a freshman in Florida A&M University’s famed marching band emailed the school’s president in 2007 after getting a series of panic-stricken phone calls. The son never described exactly what was happening, but he made it clear he feared getting beaten. “I feel that my son’s future could be in jeopardy,” Donovan Crosby wrote to James Ammons in the email, which is part of public records obtained jointly by The Associated Press and Tallahassee Democrat. Hundreds of pages of records show years of repeated warnings about brutal hazing passed without any serious response from the school’s leadership until last November’s beating death of drum major Robert Champion. A staff member replied to the email, so Crosby called the next day to talk to Ammons directly. Crosby said at first the president reassured him, then repeated the standard line that the school doesn’t condone hazing. Crosby said his son left FAMU after two years and has since struggled with personal problems. He only recently reenrolled at another college in Florida. “It was the worst decision in his life to go to FAMU,” Crosby said. Police files show that since 2007 nearly two dozen incidents
involving the band, fraternities and other student groups have been investigated. But it wasn’t until Champion’s death that the band director was initially fired, the band was suspended, student clubs were halted from recruiting new members and an anti-hazing task force was assembled. Crosby and numerous other parents over the last several years wrote or called university administrators, band officials or police begging someone at FAMU to keep their son or daughter safe. “After 1 month at FAMU he is broken, indecisive, sad, confused and he wants to come home,” parent Cheryl Walker emailed Ammons. “ ... My son will not quit school, you will not break him, I will see to that but FAMU has lost a hell of a young man and after this semester he will not be back. I pray that GOD will give the administration wisdom and courage to stand up against the stupid idiotic practices that go on (at) this FAMU campus.” Emails show that the hazing was clearly known as a problem to various school officials. William Hudson, a FAMU administrator, wrote to thenvice president for student affairs Roland Gaines in 2009 and asked “Do you think we can have the police talk to the band and put the fear of GOD in them? Even ride by the field during practice?” Gaines replied that the
Cheney’s transplant MARILYNN MARCHIONE Associated Press
CHICAGO — Doctors say it is unlikely that former Vice President Dick Cheney got special treatment when he was given a new heart that thousands of younger people also were in line to receive. After spending nearly two years on a waiting list, Cheney received a transplant Saturday. The 71-year-old underwent surgery at the same Virginia hospital where doctors implanted a small heart pump that has kept him alive the past few years. Cheney was recovering Sun-
day at Inova Fairfax Hospital in Falls Church, Va. He had severe congestive heart failure and had suffered five heart attacks over the past 25 years. Dr. Allen Taylor, cardiology chief at MedStar Cheney Georgetown University Hospital, said Sunday that the heart transplant waitlist is “a very regimented and fair process, and heavily policed.”
school’s main attorney “met with the band and placed the fear of his office in them. He does this every year. A lot of this alleged activity may not be occurring during the organized practices; but again, it may.” The school held mandatory sessions with students each fall, warning them that hazing is a felony in Florida and requiring students to sign a form acknowledging the consequences. The warnings appeared to do little to change the culture. Many police investigations into hazing went nowhere because students stonewalled and refused to cooperate. Crosby’s own son refused to talk to police. Even sometimes when arrests were made, the charges would eventually get dropped. One band member told a police investigator in 2006 that “I don’t want to prosecute because I know that it will get worse. This is what I want to do so it doesn’t matter because I can defend myself.” Police investigations into hazing were so commonplace that FAMU police even had a “band hazing questionnaire” that it submitted to students. And it appears that hazing wasn’t just limited to current band members. Julian White — band director at the time of Champion’s death — wrote an email to band alumni asking them to refrain from hazing current students. Champion’s death was the latest chapter of violent hazing
involving the Marching 100. In 1998, Ivery Luckey, a clarinet player from Ocala was hospitalized with kidney damage after being paddled in the initiation to join a group known as “The Clones.” Three years later, band member Marcus Parker was hospitalized with kidney damage after being paddled. A few weeks before Champion’s death, band member Bria Hunter was hospitalized with a broken leg and blood clots in what authorities say was another act of hazing. Three band members have been charged. In September, more aspiring “Clones” members were punched and paddled, leading to charges in January against four band members. Even after those serious incidents, the emails and records show, the band hazing continued and the school couldn’t — or wouldn’t — stop it. At the same time, some professors insisted that hazing had been eradicated. Music professor Lindsay Sarjeant boasted to a professor at the University of Southern California in the fall of 2010 that “I’m happy to tell you that we were very successful in completely eradicating hazing from the Florida A&M University Band. It was hard and took several years to change the mind set of the non significance of hazing in any form ... At FAMU, the consequences are too severe to engage in any form of hazing, mental and physical.”
Ammons and other FAMU officials refused to answer questions for this story, citing the advice of attorneys as the university awaits the outcome of ongoing investigations. The panel that oversees the state university system has also launched its own investigation The Board of Governors wants to know whether FAMU officials ignored past warnings about hazing. Champion’s death remains under investigation by state and Orange County law-enforcement authorities and no arrests have been made. The 26-year-old died from a shock caused by severe bleeding following a hazing ritual that occurred on a bus outside an Orlando hotel where the band was staying. It came hours after Florida A&M’s annual football game against archrival BethuneCookman, which features a halftime Battle of the Bands. Ammons fired band director White after Champion’s death. White hired an attorney and fired back, producing thick stacks of letters that showed he routinely suspended band members and that he forwarded this letters to top officials. His dismissal was put on hold at the urging of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, which is investigating Champion’s death along with Orange County authorities. School officials contend that they did not receive any recent letters until White was initially
dismissed by the school. Public records turned over by the university so far have not included any correspondence from top administrators responding to White in recent years. A batch of emails, however, does show that on Nov. 14 White forwarded to police and top administrators — including Ammons — a report that discussed hazing allegations involving members of the trombone section. The report details how band members were suspended from performing in a Veterans Day parade and how they argued with an assistant professor contending that they had done nothing wrong. Some parents, such as Cheryl Walker back in 2009, did put part of the blame on White. She told administrators that he had not responded to her text message for help. Police files show that in 2002 an investigator for FAMU police chided White, contending he had “hampered” an investigation because he delayed before he reported an incident. White, in his own words, expressed frustration about hazing after he was forced to suspend band members last November. “Don’t want a Joe Paterno Penn State problem at FAMU,” White wrote in a Nov. 11 email to a friend who was a band director at a Panhandle high school. Eight days later Robert Champion would be dead.
Houston full autopsy report offers more info ANTHONY McCARTNEY Associated Press
LOS ANGELES — Whitney Houston’s full autopsy report may offer more clues about whether the singer suffered a heart attack before her drowning death, officials said Friday. The full report, which is expected to be released in a few weeks, may include test results and physical descriptions of the singer’s heart that will show whether she suffered a heart attack, Assistant Chief Coroner Ed Winter
said. The report is being compiled and Winter said he did not have access to its findings, which might show whether there were any obvious signs such as discoloration of her heart that would suggest Houston Houston had a heart attack before slipping underwater in a bathtub at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Feb. 11. Houston’s death has been ruled an accidental drowning,
with heart disease and cocaine use listed as contributing factors. The report also will include detailed toxicology results that will show how much cocaine and its byproducts were in Houston’s system when she died. Coroner’s officials said Thursday that the results showed the singer used cocaine shortly before her death, and there were indications of chronic use. Beverly Hills police detectives will use the full coroner’s report to complete their investigative file, which is not expected to be publicly released. The department has said there were
no signs of foul play in connection with Houston’s death. Houston’s death on the eve of the Grammy Awards stunned the music industry and fans worldwide. The singer had battled addiction for years, but friends and family have said she appeared committed to making a comeback in the months before her death. “We are saddened to learn of the toxicology results, although we are glad to now have closure,” Patricia Houston, the singer’s sister-in-law and manager, wrote in a statement.
theBIZ
The A&T Register | ncatregister.com | Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Americans are filling up less chris khan
Associated Press
DETROIT — Americans have pumped less gas every week for the past year. During those 52 weeks, gasoline consumption dropped by 4.2 billion gallons, or 3 percent, according to MasterCard SpendingPulse. The decline is the longest since a 51-week period during the recession. The main reason: higher gas prices. The national average for a gallon of gas is $3.89, the highest ever for this time of year, and experts say it could be $4.25 by late April. As a result, Americans are taking fewer trips to restaurants and shopping malls. When they take a vacation, they’re staying closer to home. But the decline in gas consumption is also a sign that efforts to push car makers to produce vehicles with better gas mileage are paying off. The average new car now gets nearly 24 miles to the gallon, compared with about 20 mpg just four years ago, according to the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute. “I’d expect to see lower gasoline consumption for several years to come,” Rice University energy expert Ken Medlock says. Americans have cut back on fill-ups for extended periods before. In 2008, gas spiked from $3.04 to $4.11 per gallon in seven months. It wasn’t until January 2009, when the national average for gas had dropped to $1.86 that consumption increased. Drivers bought more gasoline for 23 weeks in a row. “The spike in 2008 was a real shock to the system,” Medlock says. “There’s still a residual impact on people’s driving behavior.”
There were other stretches of reduced gas use, notably two into the 1970’s and one in the early 1980’s. But in those cases, Americans eventually went back to driving big cars and trucks that guzzled gas. This time may be different. Medlock thinks economic growth will be too modest and gas prices will stay too high for Americans to start driving more anytime soon. Economists expect the U.S. economy to grow 2.5 percent in 2012. The government estimates that gas will average a record $3.79 per gallon for the year. John Gamel, who oversees MasterCard SpendingPulse’s weekly consumption report, points to rising sales of fuelefficient vehicles. “People have gotten used to elevated prices and they’ve made their long-term purchases,” Gamel says. “They’re going to be using less fuel.” Consumers now care more if a car gets good gas mileage than if it’s reliable, stylish or comes with a great deal, according to a survey of more than 24,000 new-vehicle owners taken last summer and fall by J.D. Power and Associates. That wasn’t the case in the nine previous years that J.D. Power conducted the survey. Automakers have listened to consumers, and responded to stricter government fuel economy requirements. They’ve improved engines and transmissions so cars burn less fuel. They’ve also made cars more aerodynamic, boosting mileage by cutting wind drag. The government is gradually increasing gas mileage requirements so that by 2025, cars and trucks will have to average 54.5 mpg. Between February 2011 and February 2012, the combined city-highway mileage of a new
‘Hunger Games’ kills at U.S. box office david germain
AP Movie Writer
pain at pump High gas prices are affecting Americans, who are filling up less according to research by SpendPulse. This file photo shows prices in Huron, Calif., on June 17, 2008. The rate there now is $4.39 for Regular Unleaded, according to Fuelmeup.com. Photo by Eric paul zamora fresno bee/MCT
vehicle sold in the U.S rose to 23.7 mpg from 22.7. Better gas mileage has a huge impact on the overall economy. At $3.86 per gallon, U.S. drivers would save $35.8 billion per year with a 1 mpg improvement for the entire fleet of cars, trucks and buses, according to Michael Sivak, a research professor with the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute. Consumers would appreciate the help. The rise in gas prices has been so steep that they’re still spending more on gas than a year ago despite using less. Gasoline prices rose by 24 percent in the last 52 weeks, according to auto club AAA, Wright Express and Oil Price Information Service. MasterCard, which collects purchase receipts from more than 100,000 service stations around the country, said spending on gas rose by 20 percent during the period. In 2011, Americans spent 8.4 percent of their household income on gasoline, or about $4,155, compared with 6.7 percent in 2010, according to ex-
perts at OPIS. W.M. Lewis, a general contractor in Anchorage, Alaska, says he is spending as much as $150 a week on gas. He’s consolidating his errands, but still limiting his driving because fuel keeps getting more expensive. “It’s changing everybody’s plans,” he says. “You have less money to spend.” Behind all this is the high price of oil. Brent crude, which is used to price most of the oil used to make gasoline at many U.S. coastal refineries, has jumped by 16 percent this year to more than $124 per barrel. Benchmark U.S. crude has risen 9 percent this year to more than $107 per barrel. Increased gas use by the growing number of drivers in China and other developing nations more than makes up for the drop in the U.S. That contributes to an increase in global demand for oil, which in turn pushes the price higher. Fear of a disruption to oil supplies from the Middle East also is keeping oil prices at lofty levels.
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LOS ANGELES — “The Hunger Games” has filled fan appetites with a $155 million opening weekend that puts it near the top of the domestic record book. The huge haul marks the third-best debut ever in terms of revenue, behind the $169.2 million opening for last year’s “Harry Potter” finale and the $158.4 million opening of 2008’s “The Dark Knight.” “Harry Potter” and “Batman” were well-established franchises. “The Hunger Games” set a revenue record for a non-sequel, taking in more than twice what the first “Twilight” movie did with its $69.6 million opening week-
end. “This is the birth of a franchise. To launch in this fashion is mindboggling,” said David Spitz, head of distribution at Lionsgate, which now also owns the “Twilight” franchise after its purchase of Summit Entertainment. While it’s already a blockbuster in North America, “The Hunger Games” had a much slower start overseas. The film took in a modest $59.3 million in 67 markets, including Great Britain, Germany, France, Russia and Australia. Still, “The Hunger Games” amassed a worldwide total of $214.3 million in just a few days. Domestically, it also was by far the biggest start for a film opening outside the busy summer and holiday seasons.
N.C. gets power line boost Emery P. Delasio
AP Business Writer
RALEIGH— Duke Energy and Progress Energy said Monday they’ll spend $110 million to build new power transmission lines or enhance existing ones in a third bid to get approval from federal regulators for a merger creating the largest U.S. electric utility. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission twice last year said the companies did not do enough to protect competition in their North Carolina and South Carolina home markets. Duke Energy and Progress Energy last month told North
Carolina regulators they’re willing to spend up to $150 million to reduce competition concerns. The utilities now say they will launch seven projects to increase the electricity that can flow into the states from outside suppliers. “We’re essentially expanding the ability to bring in energy from outside resources such that wholesale customers within this region can have access to the outside resources,” Progress Energy spokesman Mike Hughes said. If approved, the combined company would serve 7.1 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky.
theWORD
The A&T Register | ncatregister.com | Wednesday, March 28, 2012
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Trayvon Martin’s murder is bigger than racism As many of us have been made well aware of, on Feb. 26, 17-year-old Trayvon Martin was found shot to death in a community in Sanford, Fla. Since then, the story has gained a lot of national attention from people all over the country. Racism and a lack of justice seem to be the central theme that has angered thousands of people all over the nation. I would like to present the argument that these issues are terrible, however I do believe that a bigger issue has been overlooked for far too long. The death of Trayvon Martin is, was, and forever will be a terrible tragedy for all Americans. His death is a painful reminder of the injustices that black America has witnessed since we first stepped on American soil years ago. However, while it may be horrible, his death should not hold more weight than any other teenage death that has occurred in recent years, especially the deaths of black teenagers. Regardless of how we want to look at it, the murders of young black men have become so apparent that we seem to only get angry and protest when it deals with racism. This is not meant to down play or ignore the death of Mar-
tin. However I challenge everyone to ask yourself how many times have you read or seen something about a black kid getting killed by another black kid and did nothing about it? Martin died because of racial profiling. This is something that the country cannot, no matter how hard many people may try, ignore. On the other hand, according to the Department of Justice, this case is more rare than many of us want to admit. Need proof? In 2009, white offenders killed 209 black individuals. Meanwhile, that same year black offenders killed 2,604 black individuals. And if that wasn’t bad enough, statistics show that 94 percent of black murders had black offenders. If those statistics do not show you that there is more of an internal problem with black violence than anything else, then quite frankly I don’t know what will. While we force the country to see that racism is still an issue in today’s society, why not force the country to also see that black on black crime is perhaps the biggest problem facing Americans today. Why should the death of Martin weigh on your heart heavier
because of the race of the killer and the victim, while black people kill other black people everyday and we do nothing about it except TRUMAINE view it as “the MCCASKILL norm.” M a r t i n ’s mother has lost a son that she will never get back. Yet so many other black mothers have all lost kids due to a senseless act of violence in their own neighborhoods. Derrion Albert was beaten to death on camera by a fellow black American in 2009 and sadly most people don’t even remember his name. Torie Carpenter was shot to death in her home in front of her two children by a fellow black American in 2006 and her name was barely whispered in the news. A few weeks ago in Chicago 41 people were shot in three days (one of which was only 6-years-old) and the media not even make a peep about this, probably because most of the victims and offenders were black Americans. These are all cases where
people of color were killed not because of racial profiling, but because of ignorance. And if racial profiling is nothing more than ignorance in a different form, then explain to me how these deaths are any different than the death of Martin? We speak about justice not being served for Trayvon, but then we hear about unsolved murders in black communities all over the country and remain silent. So why is justice more important when it comes to white on black crimes, than it is when it comes to black on black crime? Especially considering the fact that statistics show white on black crime is far less common than black on black crime. Martin’s death was something that shook up the country because it is something we have thankfully begun to see less frequently in our society. Black people fought for years to stop the brutal murder of our men, women, and children due to the color of their skin. However when we see black people dying everyday, we seem to ignore the fact that the only reason this is accepted is because of the lack of justice that has been provided to innocent and defenseless young black men and women. These
are people who lost their lives in a drive-by, a drug deal gone wrong, or simply because they were in the wrong place at the wrong time. I applaud President Barack Obama for addressing the Trayvon Martin tragedy. Yet it would still be nice to hear a politician (and it does not have to be the President) address the fact that black people are the leading killers of black people in this country and so few of us are doing anything to help prevent it. Say what you want about racism but the fact of the matter is we are killing ourselves more than any other race right now and we have all sat back and let this injustice go on for quite a few decades now. The media has stopped covering the bigger issue. There are less and less major rallies organized to help prevent black on black violence. There are no more “Wear black shirts for all the black teens that were lost last year,” movements. Black people need to see Trayvon’s case as another black male who was killed and justice was not served. That’s a huge difference from the theme flowing around, which appears to be a white/hispanic male killed a black teen and justice was not served.
Race is still an issue here, but the fight that is more important is the protection of all black people, not just the ones who are killed by someone of a different race. If we were seriously sad for the Martin family, then I would love to see everyone take 10 minutes out of their day to pause for the black people who have died due to ignorance. Or maybe a fundraiser to go towards funding some of these unsolved murders that are so frequent in the black communities. Or how about the college students of Greensboro come together with the community and we host a march on violence. These are all ideas to show that Trayvon’s death was terrible, but it doesn’t make us forget that the true tragedy here is that another black teen has died due to an act of ignorance. George Zimmerman’s inexcusable act of violence is something that is being highlighted in this case. Yet sadly ignorant acts of violence happen every day in the black community. So much so, that we have stopped seeing it for the tragedy that it really is because it is now seen as “normal.” -tlmccask@ncat.edu And follow him on Twitter @TrumaineWasHere
Food, music, candy, and your SGA votes Election time has arrived at N.C. A&T, which means loud music outside, band marches, and the offering of free food, all for a vote. The Student Government Association was created for individuals who have the true desire to make a difference on campus; however, over the past couple of years such candidates have been scarce. Individuals see the smiles and desire the satchels, but forget that there is work to be done. The evidence is seen in the lack of candidates in positions other than Miss or Mr. for the 2012-2013 academic school year. The senior class has three candidates for Miss Senior, two candidates for president and none for Mister, vice-president, secretary, or treasurer. The junior class has four candidates for Miss Junior, and four candidates for Junior class king; however, they have no candidates for any other position on the class’ executive board. The sophomore class, better off of all in the amount of candidates running, has one candidate for
president, two for vice-president, one for treasurer, and one for sophomore class king. Has it really come to this? SGA is in place to represent our student body. LILIANE The representa- LONG tives chosen are the first faces that individuals see, from the outside looking in. Thus, SGA should be made up of some of the best students that our illustrious university has to
“Individuals see the smiles and desire the satchels, but forget that there is work to be done.” offer. As I look closely at some of the candidates for next year’s election, I cannot help but worry
a bit. Some have very strong platforms, very strong opinions and, most important, have plans and ideas on how to execute the goals stated in their platforms; the majority do not. I cannot tell you how many times I have read or heard candidates say “my plan is to unite the student body” or “I plan on getting students more involved.” My question and everyone’s for that matter is, “how?” Getting individuals involved and united is something easier said than done; and when asked how, some candidates look like deer in headlights. You mean you didn’t think about how to execute the plan you have before you decided to run? Or at least before you interact with students as a candidate? The main job for Misters and Misses is to provide individuals with community service opportunities. Nevertheless, when asked which organizations they would like to raise items, funds, or go
physically volunteer with, a few candidates did not know. A part of the blame for this is on the student body. Candidates give use a free pin, some chicken, a drink and a bag of chips and they have our votes. The student body lets candidates think that they can, and that it is okay to, “buy” their vote. On March 14, SGA put on a Meet-the-Candidates night in Exibit hall and I was surprised to see that about 40 individuals, that were not there to support a friend or already a part of SGA, were there. Many complain about our SGA representatives. However, those same individuals who complain fail to show up to events to ask the candidates the hard questions. Individuals should make candidates work hard for their votes; ask the tough questions, and if you don’t like the answers run for something other than just Mr. or Miss. -lrlong14@gmail.com And follow us on Twitter @ATRegister
AggieLife
How do you feel about girls who go through their man’s phone? Guy #1- I think it is only acceptable if he gives her permission. I know a lot of girls do it regardless of how their significant other feels. But that does nothing but hurt relationships because she will continue to sneak and do it until she finds something. This ultimately destroys a relationship because now she is the one sneaking to see if her man is sneaking around. Guy #2- I think any girl who feels the need to go through a man’s phone needs to get a life. I’ve never been a fan of going through phones. If you’re not my girl then you have no right to go through my phone. And if you are, then trust me enough to know that besides my mom, I’m not talking to another girl. And if you don’t trust me enough to ask up front, then just leave me alone. Guy #3- I think girls going through guys phones are ridiculous. I personally caught my girlfriend in the bathroom going through my phone one night and it led to a bigger series of arguments than I’ve ever had. I think if a girl has doubts then she needs to just break it off until she can woman up enough to ask if a man is cheating or not. I’ve never cheated and never will. So when a girl goes through my phone it shows that we have no trust in our relationship. Would you rather have a girl like India Arie or Nicki Minaj?
Crystal Pratt
Guy #1- I love India Arie. Her music is so soulful and she does it for the love. She is a real woman. However, Nicki Minaj is the complete opposite. I’d rather have a real woman over a Barbie any day of the week. A soulful woman will always stay true to herself and her values regardless of how others feel. That is sexy. Guy #2- Right now, I rather have a girl like Nicki. Most people argue that she is the opposite of what I should be looking for, but right now
I see the fun I could have with someone like Nicki. She works hard but plays hard too. She lives freely and is a beautiful lady. I personally don’t have an issue with a woman like Nicki. Guy #3- Any girl that strives to be like Nicki Minaj is striving to be nothing. And I need substance in my life. India Arie is not as bad as Nicki Minaj, but then again I’d rather have someone who can stimulate my mind as well as my body. I think women like Nicki Minaj are far too fake and extra for me to say I want to settle down with any girl like that. What should young black men learn from Trayvon Martin? Guy #1- We should learn that Trayvon Martin is no different from Emmitt Till, the 4 little girls in Birmingham, or any other young black child whose life was cut down due to racism. I think we should learn that racism is still very much alive in this “post-racial” society. It is important to let our kids know that things like this are not just history; they are current events. Guy #2- What is there not to learn from Trayvon Martin? I think the biggest lesson is that your life in America is seen as worthless if you are a black male. A black man gets shot and killed and the killer can still go to Wal-Mart and buy all the skittles and ice-tea he wants. That is messed up. I think we need to learn that black Americans may always, no matter how hard we fight, be a second class. Guy #3- I think we need to see that our justice system does not care about black men. Black men are some of the most feared people on the planet. So to see one of our brothers get gunned down and justice not be served shows that there is still a lot of work that needs to be done. I think it was a painful reminder that even a black president is not enough; we need the equality we have so desperately fought for since the days of Reconstruction.
Editor’s note:The opinions expressed on The Word are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the staff of The A&T Register. All house editorials are written and revised with input from the editorial board, staff, and is approved by the editor. All submissions must be sent to theatregister@gmail.com to be considered for submission and should be no longer than 250 words. Submissions must be received by the Sunday prior to publication at 5 p.m. to be considered. The A&T Register reserves the right to edit all submission content for clarity and grammar. Submissions become the property of The A&T Register and will not be returned.
theSCORE The A&T Register | ncatregister.com | Wednesday, March 28, 2012
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Which teams are going to the big dance? Who do you think will take it all? Editors’ predictions TRUMAINE MCCASKILL
KELCIE C. MCCRAE Editor-In-Chief
KARMEN ROBINSON
Opinions Editor
Louisville “Since the Tar Heels are out then I guess I’ll go for Louisville.”
Sports Editor
Kentucky “Kentucky because they have the most dominant team since the 2009 UNC team.”
Kentucky “I’m a Thomas Robinson fan, but Kentucky is 32-2. They’ll take it all.”
KENNETH L. HAWKINS, JR. Photo Editor
Kansas “I don’t see why UNC and Duke fans put their lives in college basketball, so I’ll take Kansas.”
ERIK VEAL
SYLVIA OBELL
Online Editor
Managing Editor
Kansas “I was awaiting Carolina’s defeat, now I’m waiting to see Kansas take it all.”
Kentucky “I interned in Lexington so I have to go for my boys at UK!”
OSCAR GARCIA
Associated Press
Sin City casinos are sticking with Kentucky and Ohio State as Final Four favorites and still think the Wildcats have by far the best shot of winning the NCAA title. Odds put out by Nevada casinos after the matchups were
set show they think Kentucky — the No. 1 seed overall in the tournament — has a 52 percent shot at the title despite needing to win two more games, gambling expert RJ Bell of Pregame.com told The Associated Press. “Clearly, Kentucky feels like a significant favorite,” Bell said.
Casinos believe Ohio State has a 25 percent chance, Kansas a 15 percent chance and Louisville an 8 percent chance, Bell said. Cantor Gaming, which operates six sports books in Las Vegas and shares its lines with the vast majority of Nevada’s 186 sports books, made Kentucky a 9.5-point favorite over Lou-
isville and Ohio State a 3-point favorite over Kansas for Saturday’s semifinals. Mike Colbert, Cantor’s risk management director, said early wagers including several bettors gambling $10,000 each on Louisville pushed Kentucky down to a 9-point favorite. But he said he expects Wildcat bets to come later in the week.
“Kentucky, to me, is still basically a pro team out there. They put five guys that are going to play in the NBA on the floor basically at all times,” Colbert said. Kentucky’s odds over Louisville are the widest gap between two teams in a semifinal matchup since 1999, Bell said. Bell said 17 of 27 champi-
ASHLEY VAUGHN Scene Editor
Kansas “As a hoosier, I can’t root for Kentucky, so why not Kansas?”
ons have been No. 1 seeds since 1985, when the tournament expanded to 64 teams. Officials say that of 5.1 million brackets filled out on CBSSports.com, just over 4 million — nearly 79 percent — picked Kentucky to get to the Final Four. More than 43 percent picked the Wildcats to win the title.
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hotlist
thescene
The A&T Register | ncatregister.com | Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Luckett sings her heART n Soul for Aggies Ashley vaughn Scene Editor
Aggies filled Harrison Auditorium to witness the Art ‘N Soul event that was hosted by the Student University Advisory Board. This event included various performances, all in the form of art. Our very own Miss A&T, Jasmine Gurley and alumnus Darren Brand kept the audience entertained with their hosting talents. Three young ladies who are part of the poetry group PoetShe performed three different pieces, all evoking emotion from the crowd, including a standing ovation. Verge Modeling Troupe also performed a modeling segment. A majority male dance group with the exception of one female dancer named Indigo, danced to numerous songs, showing their dancing skills. One of the final opening acts was one of the crowd’s favorites, Grand Trilogy. This group featured both poets and a singer performing about two guys trying to win the attention of their dream girl. All of these opening acts were scheduled to get the audience prepared for the headliner, R&B singer Letoya Luckett. As many may know, Luckett gained her celebrity as an original member for the superstar group Destiny’s Child. She then went on to become a successful solo artist. Though she had a few hit singles, it has been a while since her fans has heard anything from her in recent years. With her last hits being “Regret” featuring rapper Ludacris, and “She Aint Got...” some fans were wondering what she may perform at the Art ‘N Soul showcase. When I asked Luckett what her favorite songs to perform was, with no hesitation she replied, “it’s definetly “Regret.” That’s because it comes from a personal experience, and all my ladies seem to re-
ally relate to that song.” When Luckett came out to perform, she had the crowd’s full attention, with the guy’s admiring what they were seeing, and the ladies singing every word to her songs. The songs that she performed included her hits “Not Anymore,” “Torn,” and her favorite song to perform “Regret.” Luckett and her DJ also kept the crowd entertained with playing current radio hits. Luckett seemed to be having fun with dancing along with the audience. She even got intimate on a couple of songs with serenading various guys in the crowd. Overall, the event was deemed successful with Harrison having a lot of their seats filled, and with the crowd singing every word to Letoya’s songs, and even giving standing ovations to some of the opening acts. When I asked Luckett how important she felt it was for strong female singers to make appearances at HBCUs such as A&T, she replied “It’s very important! Young students need to be able to witness artists like me, so they can see we have a dream and we are still following our dreams.It’s good to be able to show young people dreams do come true, but you never stop working.” Luckett’s performance showed how she has overcame adversity with the Destiny’s Child era, and how she is making her solo career nothing short of a success. This event left its audience satisfied and wanting more. SUAB did a good job with this event. Showcases like this brings new appreciation to attending an HBCU.
March 28th to April 3rd
The A&T Register’s guide to what’s going this week in arts and entertainment.
on screen mirror mirror stars Oscar winner Julia Roberts and young star Lilly Collins (The Blind Side). One of the most beloved stories of all time is coming to life in the motion picture event for the whole family. A fresh and funny retelling of the Snow White legend, the film features a princess in exile, and the evil Queen who ruthlessly rules her captured kingdom. Seven courageous rebel dwarfs join forces with Snow White as she fights to reclaim her birthright and win her Prince. This film comes out Friday, March 30th.
-anvaughn@ncat.edu and follow us on Twitter @ATRegister
Photo by Kenneth l. hawkins jr.
‘Hunger Games’ has all the right ingredients Chuck johnson Copy Editor
From the film’s opening scene viewers are transported into the post-apocalyptic North American nation of Panem where children are chosen annually at random for a telecasted death match known as the Hunger Games. In the poor Appalachian region known as District 12 lives the independent and strongwilled Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence), a teenager who has to hunt and trade game illegally to provide for her family after her father’s death. Katniss’ world is further shaken when her 12-year-old sister, Prim (Willow Shields), is chosen as the district’s female tribute for the 74th Games. Knowing that she’d stand no chance of surviving, Katniss volunteers herself in Prim’s place and thus she must prepare to do whatever she can to stay alive in hopes of returning to her already broken family. The movie is interesting in that in combines reality television, suspense, violence, drama, romance, action, and politics and blends it into a smooth and appetizing two and a half hour viewing. There’s literally something for everyone in this epic big screen event as it transcends gender and ethnic lines to tell a realistic story of a society where as punishment for a failed rebellion years ago, children must
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kill each other as a source of national entertainment. Where the movie excels is in the casting department, especially with Jennifer Lawrence at the forefront. The Academy Award nominee shines as Katniss and forces you to go on this challenging journey with her. Another standout is Elizabeth Banks as District 12’s escort, the fashion-forward and uptight Effie Trinkett who provides some great comic relief. Lenny Kravitz puts his rocker persona aside for a restrained yet, compelling performance as Katniss’ style-advisor, Cinna; elsewhere in the film, Amandla Stenberg is a scene stealer in her role as Katniss’ ally in the Games - District 11 tribute, Rue. Other notable performances come from Wes Bentley and Stanley Tucci as head gamemaker Seneca Crane and Capital reporter Caesar Flickerman, respectfully. The score, arranged by James Newman also helped to build tension and create the futuristic world of “The Hunger Games.” Though a solid effort, the film did suffer somewhat at the hands of some choppy editing and shaky camera work which was almost headache inducing in certain parts. The special effects were also at times ‘cheap’ and therefore caused distractions from the plot. As a film based on a huge literary franchise many may wonder if it lives up to its source material? Honestly, trying to compare a movie and book is
impossible as they’re two different experiences. Nevertheless, as its own body of work, the film still manages to convey the overall message and heart of the 2008 Suzanne Collins novel it was adapted from. If you see the movie and enjoy it at least somewhat, I’d definitely recommend picking up the entire trilogy because you won’t be able to wait until November 2013 to know what happens next to “The Girl on Fire.”
R&B singer Letoya Luckett sings for Aggies in Harrison Auditorium.
Kobe’s system gets stronger with new shoe release
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melanie fiona is finally releasing her sophomore album, “The MF Life.” Though the album was supposed to be released early last year, after various setbacks the new album is finally on shelves. She has been receiving nothing but good reviews with this project. After her hit single ‘4am’, this album deserves a listen.
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DJ Khaled ft Rick Ross, Chris Brown, Nicki Minaj and Lil Wayne “Take It to the Head” brandon d. harris Contributor
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on shelves
The new Nike Kobe VII is more than just a shoe. The stylish performance enhancer is another product of the pathway basketball is igniting through the fashion industry. With every release, the shoe’s mastermind and primary inspiration, Kobe Bryant, finds new ways to advance its image and performance. The Kobe VII features a highly durable, cast polyurethane shell upper that provides durability and a performance fit. The shoe also provides the nextgeneration fly wire that offers lightweight support and stability. The “System Supreme” version of the Kobe VII comes with interchangeable inserts called Attack Fast and Attack Strong. Each insert allows the customer to choose the cushioning and support level required for each day’s activity, making this shoe ideal for transitioning from the basketball ball court to
class. My favorite color scheme of all the new Kobe VII’s is the ‘Predator Pack’ featuring colorways based on the wolf, shark, cheetah, and snake. However, my most recent purchase was the Shark. This vibrant shoe features an intense marine blue with deep obsidian and sparkling white highlights. The shoe’s dazzling colors stand out and compliment every outfit to perfection. This shoe is quickly becoming one of my favorites due to the number of compliments and attention I receive when wearing them. This shoe is a must have for athletes and casual shoe enthusiasts alike! -bdharris4@ncat.edu and follow us on Twitter @ATRegister
1. Did you go see LeToya Luckett last Thursday? 2. Could we not afford to get Kelly or Michelle? 3. When does India. Arie? 4. Will you be attending this “Justice” party for Trayvon Martin tonight at Bentley’s? 5. Free before 11 with a bag of skittles right? 6. Do they have to be ‘original’ flavor or would ‘wild berry’ work? 7. Did you get a fresh hoodie to wear? 8. How ignorant can we be as a people? 9. Have you voted? 10. Nevermind, did you know SGA elections are postponed? 11. Why? 12. Aren’t you ready for the fake people to stop harassing you for votes? 13.Weren’t you ready to get some free food today? 14. Can Monday just get here so we can get this over with? 15. Since we’re not voting today are you hype for the Battle of the Hometowns dodge ball game? 16. You didn’t know BAttle of the Hometowns was back this week? 17. Or are you one of those poeople who don’t have a hometown club? 18. Does it suck to be an Aggie from Texas, New Orleans, or Florida? 19. If the people from down the street and around the corner can have a club (Triad Aggies) why don’t you? 20. Hows ‘hell week’ going for some of you?
DJ Kahled is back with another hit. Of course, he has a song full of hip-hop’s biggest names. This song has Nicki rapping again, and Chris Brown providing a nice hook all over a nice, relaxed beat. It’s a different sound for the usual hype Kahled, but this song will definetly be playing on the radios everywhere real soon. Good song for the warm weather
Come be a part of theScene Contributors Meetings every Wednesday at 5 p.m. in GCB 328A